ANZA Magazine January/February 2024 by ANZA Singapore

TOURS

A U S T R A L I A N A N D N E W Z E A L A N D A S S O C I AT I O N

SPORTS

OUT & ABOUT

CHECK OUT

YOUR STORIES

T HE AUSTRAL I AN & NEW ZEAL AND ASSOCIA T IO N January/February 2024

S i ngapore

Inside The Red Dot's Dating Scene

TRUE STORY ANZA MAhjoNg MAde Me AN Author

SCHOOL SPECIAL

ck Life Ha ’s

The do ts & don’ ne of onling shari

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2024

01 AM

WHAT’S ON

TRAVEL Step back in time in Langkawi

New Term Time! ● ● ●

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Next level lessons After-class learning (+ fun!) How to pick the right school A day in the life of a student in Singapore

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Unlock Your Child’s Potential at The Australian International School

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Offer your child an exceptional education at The Australian International School (AIS). Our devoted educators ensure personalised growth and excellence for every student. The core of our curriculum is the renowned International Baccalaureate (IB), fostering inquisitive learning within a dynamic framework. Rooted in Australian Curriculum standards, students expand their knowledge and world perspective.

Best Early Learning Program (Reggio Emilia) 2023

Student Wellbeing Award 2023

The Curriculum Awards (IB) 2023

Best International School 2022

Best Early Learning Program 2021

AIS rem academ health, approac cognitiv attitude rapidly mental pedago that pro enablin themse

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Best Arts Program 2021

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Booking a tour is a great way to experience the world-class AIS campus. Contact us at admissions@ais.com.sg or call 6517 0247. For more information, visit www.ais.com.sg Australian International School Pte Ltd | CPE Registration Number: 199204405H | Period of registration of PEI: 6 July 2023 to 5 July 2027

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A Message from the Principal’s Desk In 2023, the Australian International School (AIS) celebrated its 30th anniversary, emphasising its commitment to educational excellence and global collaboration. The year included reflections on past achievements and the profound impact on students’ lives, reinforcing a dedication to shaping the future through innovation and global engagement. As we look ahead to 2024, AIS is eager to celebrate the achievements of our graduating cohort, support students in their university journeys, and strengthen connections with our AIS Alumni, sharing their impactful stories to inspire the upcoming generation of graduates. Additionally, significant campus enhancements, including a new examinations and exhibition hall and a fully refurbished Secondary School Library, are set to enrich the learning environment. AIS remains committed to holistic education, blending academic proficiency with the emphasis on happiness, health, safety, and engagement. The Academic Wellbeing approach integrates social, emotional, physical, and cognitive learning, fostering adaptability, positive attitudes, and empowering students for success in a rapidly evolving world. Emphasising both physical and mental wellbeing, combined with an evidence-informed pedagogical framework, establishes a learning environment that promotes responsive teaching and academic rigour, enabling each student to become the best version of themselves. The school offers an array of Co-Curricular Activities (CCAs) and sports programmes, spanning over 300 options like robotics, photography, chess, dance, bands, and orchestras. Anticipated events include the annual SEASAC sports tournament, Waitangi Day, and Picnic Under the Stars. Cheers to a promising 2024 filled with growth, achievements, and continued academic excellence at AIS! Warm regards, Adam Patterson Principal Australian International School

“AIS remains steadfast in its commitment to providing a holistic education that ensures our students are academically proficient and happy, healthy, safe, and engaged.”

www.ais.com.sg Australian International School Pte Ltd | CPE Registration Number: 199204405H | Period of registration of PEI: 6 July 2023 to 5 July 2027

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Celebrating 30 years of Academic Excellence through our school values of Achievement, Opportunity and Respect

2 months 18 years

50+ students & teacher nationalities

World Class Facilities

Multiple Pathways: IBPYP, IGCSE, IBDP and HSC

300+ Co-Curricular Activities

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E DI TOR’S NOTE

appy New Year! I hope everyone feels refreshed after the holiday period - you’re going to need some energy! As veteran expats in Singapore will know, January tends to hit like a whirlwind. No sooner is the final Christmas bauble packed away, but preparations for Chinese New Year begin, making the weeks ahead some of the most culturally vibrant and traditionally rich of the whole year. And of course, the new school term begins. Whether you have little ones about to enter education, or teens on their final countdown before university, there is so much for parents to stay on top of. Our annual School Special starting on p40 is here to help. One thing’s for sure - school has never been so exciting! Back in my day, lessons consisted of standard Maths, Science, English, and something us kids deemed “boring and pointless” called “Computer Studies”. (Yes, I’m showing my age!). Our feature School Daze on p44 reveals that today’s students learn everything from data collection, to sustainable design, to how to set up an entire imaginary country! Indeed, Singapore’s schools have never been so invested in delivering unique, engaging, and forward-thinking programmes as our interviews with local teachers reveal. Check out Spotlight on Schools on p50 for details. And when class ends, the learning continues with the likes of storytelling, dance, and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. So much more beneficial than spending evenings doing homework in front of Neighbours. (Just me?!). Head to p56 for the lowdown. Elsewhere this issue, we mark Valentine’s Day with insider love intel from a professional matchmaker on p104, uncover

the island’s most retro - and Instagram-friendly - children’s playgrounds on p28, and for proof that joining ANZA can be truly life-changing, read about one ex-member on p34 who has published a book thanks to ANZA Mahjong! Who knows what our fabulous community will inspire in 2024?!

Jo Upcraft, Editor editor@anza.org.sg PS One more thing to do in January? Plan your outfit for The ANZA Black & White Ball 2024 taking place on 10 May 2024! Tickets will be on sale from 15 January.

GENERAL MANAGER Kerry Low gm@anza.org.sg

THE ANZA TEAM AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND ASSOCIATION

ADVERTISING Karen Henaghan marketing@anza.org.sg

ACCOUNTS AND OPERATIONS Ellie Mills accounts@anza.org.sg

EVENTS Melinda Kaur events@anza.org.sg

261A Beach Road, Singapore 199541 Hours: Mon–Fri, 9am–5pm +65 6291 6301 www.anza.org.sg facebook.com/anzasingapore @anzasingapore linkedin.com/groups/ANZA-Singapore

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DESIGN Christina Lim design@anza.org.sg

MEMBERSHIP SERVICES Tracey Wright info@anza.org.sg

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HERE COMES 2024!

JA N UA RY / F E B RUA RY 2 0 2 4

FEATURES

28 CHECK OUT These charming retro playgrounds are fast disappearing - don’ t miss them!

30 LOVED TO BITS For stuffed toys in need of teddy loving care, book them an appointment at this hospital

34 “ANZA MADE ME AN AUTHOR!” Meet the ANZA member who’s published a book, all thanks to our Mahjong group

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40 THE ART OF SCHOOL SELECTION

What to consider and what to ask when choosing a school for your child

44 SCHOOL DAZE Just what do kids get up to during the day? We speak to students to find out

50 SPOTLIGHT ON SCHOOLS 56 SCHOOL’S OUT, FUN’S IN! The clubs, associations, courses, and classes available for after-hours learning in SG

62 THE SHARENTING DILEMMA Social media allows parents to divulge details about their children, but what is too much?

84 TAPESTRY OF TIME Step into a bygone era with a trip to Langkawi

REGULARS 01 04 06 07 08 10 12 16 18

Editor’s Note President’s Message Post It Partners Page New Zealand High Commission Australian High Commission ANZA Tours What’s On Out & About

22 Out & About: The ANZA Melbourne Cup Race Day 2023 77 Ask The Expert 79 Tuckerbox 81 Hotspots 88 ANZA Sports 100 New Members 104 10 Minutes With …

COVER: SHUTTERSTOCK

Teachers from across the island reveal what makes their school stand out

the fine print ANZA will not be liable for any consequential loss or damage occasioned by the failure of any advertisement to appear due to any cause whatsoever, nor does it accept any liability for error in any advertisement published or its failure to appear on a specific date. ANZA does not endorse or promote any product, service, or view offered through any advertisement, community service notice, or club or group activity that may appear in the magazine, nor does it accept responsibility for any specific advice or opinions offered by contributors or writers, and any subsequent reliance on such advice or opinions by its readers. ANZA magazine permit number: MCI (P) 054/10/2022.

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Nurturing the next generation of confident, compassionate leaders. The student leadership programme at Dulwich College (Singapore) Junior School empowers our students to thrive both academically and personally. Our student leaders drive positive change by inspiring others, fostering collaboration and role modelling the values we aspire towards. We structure student leadership roles in order to nurture student’s inherent leadership qualities, develop new skillsets, and facilitate learning experiences that extend beyond traditional academic boundaries. Today, 258 Junior students are in leadership roles, preparing them for a future where they will Live Worldwise. To learn more visit Singapore.dulwich.org or call admissions at 6890 1003

Dulwich College (Singapore) CPE Registration Number: 201027137D. Period of Registration: 09 January 2024 to 08 January 2028. School Location: 71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, Singapore, 658966

PRESI DENT ’S MES S AG E

ANZA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

In With The New

ishing all our members a joyful and healthy start to 2024 and additional happiness and prosperity as we usher in the Year of the Dragon. If you haven’t already, remember to head to Chinatown to stock up with CNY goodies - especially pineapple tarts! A very warm welcome to any recent arrivals and new members of our community! We are delighted that you’ve found your way to the friendliest association in Singapore. I look forward to meeting you over the next couple of months, either at one of ANZA’s evening “Chill, Chat, Connect” events or the new members morning gatherings that we dub “Thriving in Singapore”. These events not only provide fantastic opportunities to meet like-minded people, but also to discover more about the opportunities offered across ANZA and insights on how to optimise your time on the island. Indeed, as a predominantly expatriate association, we are used to a fairly constant turnover of membership. Considering this, alongside the effects of the pandemic and the ever-creeping cost of living, I’m delighted that our membership is now back to our pre-Covid numbers. This is due in no small part to the incredible dedication of our volunteers who drive the sporting and sub-group activities with such passion. A huge shout out to the age group coordinators for Soccer, Netball and Nippers; our Scout leaders; Cycling Ride Captains; Mahjong ‘marshals’; and to each of our members who have stepped up to lead a group. If you’d like to delve more deeply into any aspect of ANZA, we’d love to hear from you. It just takes a few people with a particular interest to come together, build some momentum, and before you know it, there’s a new ANZA group! This is how we welcomed our Singing, Pickleball and Watersports groups over the last year. Moving forward, our Executive Committee, in conjunction with ANZA’s small but mighty office team have been working hard on the direction for the association over the next few years and beyond. In addition, the ANZA Annual General Meeting will be taking place in March. If you’re interested in being involved within our association in a more strategic level, perhaps consider running for the Executive Committee? All Ordinary Members are eligible, with no minimum length of membership requirement. Find more details on our website at anza.org.sg I look forward to seeing you in ANZA-Land somewhere soon!

Megan Kinder 4

President Megan Kinder

Vice President Mark Neo

Treasurer Tristan Perry

Membership Secretary MaryScot Thom

Community Service Coordinator Debra de Reeper

Sports Coordinator James Lindsay

Sports Coordinator Melanie Speet

Committee Member Don Northey

Committee Member Christo Alexander

Committee Member Philip Simmonds

Committee Member Kylie Barry

Committee Member Shaun McEwan

Committee Member Megan Scott

Committee Member Julia Erakovic

CO-PATRONS Gabrielle Rush New Zealand High Commissioner to Singapore I Mr Allaster Cox Australian High Commissioner to Singapore ANZA AMBASSADOR PJ Roberts

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STORIES ONLY YOU CAN CREATE

At Chatsworth, we oﬀer IB Diploma scholarships that recognise students for not only their exceptional academic performance but also for their contributions to the wider Chatsworth community. In each academic year, scholarships are available for internal students as well as external applicants for our two-year IB Diploma programme that pays for 100% of school fees. In addition to our 100% scholarship, there are partial scholarships available to internal applicants as well. To apply or for more information, contact our Admissions team.

Chatsworth International School 72 Bukit Tinggi Road, Singapore 289760

admissions.bt@chatsworth.com.sg

Chatsworth International School. CPE Registration No:199405288W | Period of Registration: 30/06/23 - 29/06/27

(65) 6463 3201

www.chatsworth.com.sg

POST I T

POST IT

K E E P U P -T O - D AT E W I T H T H E A N Z A C O M M U N I T Y E A C H M O N T H AT A N Z A .O R G . S G

Waitangi Day

Waitangi Day is on Tuesday, 6 February 2024. The day marks the rich tapestry of New Zealand’s history, unity, and cultural diversity, and reminds us of the strength found in coming together, acknowledging the past, and embracing a harmonious future. May this day be filled with reflection, community, and a deep appreciation for the unique blend of cultures that make New Zealand truly special.

GONG XI FA CAI One of the brilliant things about living in Singapore is that we are fortunate to be able to embrace a melting pot of cultural festivities. Saturday, 10 February 2024 marks the start of Chinese New Year and the Year of the Dragon. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Chinatown until 24 February where you’ll find plenty of auspicious food, celebrations, and lots of red for good fortune! From everyone at ANZA, we wish those who celebrate CNY a happy, prosperous, and joyful new year. Huat ah!

Meet A Featured Partner

BRIAN TUCKER,

Athletics Director at Canadian International School cis.edu.sg

Who is CIS? Canadian International School in Singapore is a K-12 international school running the IB curriculum with a community consisting of 80 nationalities. What is your role? My role is to oversee all aspects of CIS’ athletic programmes from planning, developing, implementing and evaluating programmes and activities, to managing partnerships, venue, equipment, supplies, and more. How do CIS stand out from the competition? CIS is a member of the Athletic Conference of Singapore International Schools (ACSIS) consisting of 32 schools on the island. Our mandate for both ACSIS and CIS is to provide students with opportunities within competitive sports. On average we field 50 school teams with 800 to 900 students, who participate in 300 games over three seasons. We also offer a highly successful swimming programme that is registered as both

GOT SOMETHING TO SAY? Email us at info@anza.org.sg or comment on our Facebook page facebook.com/anzasingapore 6

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an ACSIS team as well as a swimming club under the Singapore Swimming Association (SSA). What’s your partnership with ANZA? On top of being a proud sponsor of ANZA Soccer for a number of years, we are now also their long-term venue partner. Our full-sized soccer pitch is their new home! We anticipate a closer relationship with ANZA to incorporate ANZA coaching into CIS’ football teams and other sports such as netball. We’re excited about this new chapter ... This partnership is a win-win for both CIS and ANZA. Our sporting and community values are well aligned and we are delighted to welcome the ANZA community to our school. We’ve always had a positive relationship. What are you up to when not at work? I’m most likely found walking the green corridor from Bukit Timah to Holland Village every weekend for a rewarding bowl of noodles and a few cups of teh tarik!

STAY CONNECTED WITH ANZA facebook.com/anzasingapore @anzasingapore linkedin.com/groups/ANZA-Singapore

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AN Z A PARTN E R S

THANK YOU TO THE FOLLOWING ANZA PARTNERS, VALUED GREATLY FOR THEIR CONTINUED SUPPORT OF THE ASSOCIATION. PREMIER PARTNERS

PLATINUM PARTNERS

GOLD PARTNERS

SILVER PARTNERS

January/February 2024

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NEW ZEAL A N D HIG H C OM M IS SION

A message from the High Commissioner New Zealand High Commissioner Gabby Rush reflects on a year of work and life in Singapore.

Gabby at her favourite beach, Whangapoua

H New Zealand High Commission Singapore One George Street, Level 21-04 Singapore 049145 Tel 6235 9966 Fax 6536 8180 nzhc.sin@mfat.govt.nz

STAY CONNECTED Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/ NewZealandinSingapore Register when travelling: safetravel.govt.nz Find out more: mfat.govt.nz/singapore

appy New Year! I can’t believe 12 months have passed since I took up my role as New Zealand High Commissioner. I arrived at Lunar New Year just in time to be introduced to the distinctly Singaporean Lo Hei! Time has flown. I have loved getting to know Singapore – its places, people, and food, but also its history, heritage, and culture. From great museums to my local hawker market, there is so much to enjoy. Our work at the High Commission has focused on advancing our Enhanced Partnership with Singapore. We’ve hosted New Zealand ministers, ships and officials, our universities, researchers and students. We have helped promote New Zealand wine, dairy, seafood, meats, kiwifruit, apples, edutech, health tech, other tech, and a host of other brilliant Kiwis, businesses and products. A big plus for me has been meeting the New Zealand community here, working with the NZ Chamber and ANZA, celebrating successes with students and staff at AIS, and getting to know expats such as Tony Keepa and other members of our Singapore-based Māori community. As 2024 begins, we have plans for another busy, impactful year. Our new government ministers are keen to engage on priority areas like supply chain resilience and the green economy, and we’ll keep working with our Singaporean colleagues on

policy challenges and people-to-people links. It won’t all be hard work though. After a holiday season that saw our team members enjoying time with family and friends in New Zealand, Australia, and Vietnam, the “summer” break has allowed us to return to Singapore feeling refreshed and ready for what 2024 has in store. Thanks to AIS and the Chamber we’re kick starting the new year with another great Waitangi Day afternoon celebrating in true Anzac spirit over a barbeque and some slip-and-slide fun at the Australian International School. From all of the team at the New Zealand High Commission, we wish you a happy, healthy, and prosperous new year.

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Unlock a world of opportunities for your child’s future.

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AUSTR ALIAN HIG H C OM M IS SION

Looking forward with the AHC A New Year message from His Excellency Allaster Cox, Australian High Commissioner to Singapore.

Happy New Year to all ANZA readers. I hope you celebrated the start of 2024 in good spirits and with good company. As we look forward, I want to take a moment to look back on an eventful 2023 and reflect on some of the accomplishments we have progressed in Singapore. My first year as High Commissioner to Singapore has been filled with engagements with government, businesses, and the diplomatic corps as well as forging connections through the arts, sciences and sport, to name a few. 2023 was transformative in many respects: We celebrated an incredible milestone - the 20th Anniversary of the Singapore-Australia Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA) We welcomed Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles at the 8th Singapore-Australia Annual Leaders Meeting and the 20th IISS ShangriLa Dialogue We hosted nine First Nations businesses as part of Singapore Landing Pad immersion week We commemorated the first anniversary of the Singapore-Australia Green Economy Australian Agreement

High Commission Singapore 25 Napier Road Singapore, 258507 Tel 6836 4100 Fax 6737 5481

STAY CONNECTED Follow us on Facebook: facebook.com/ AustraliaInSingapore LinkedIn: linkedin.com/ company/ahc-sg Twitter: @AusHCSG Instagram: @AustraliaInSG

Similarly in this new year, we at the Australian High Commission Singapore will continue to reach out widely to better understand Singapore’s plans for a sustainable shared future, and how we can design the next stage bilateral partnership to complement it. We are currently working on our next iteration of our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. When it was developed in 2015, it was the first of its kind for Singapore. The next iteration will chart the 10 years from 2025 - 2035. The Singapore-Australia relationship will be enhanced by increased twoway trade and investment in renewable energy, digitisation, food supply, education and skills, and health and ageing services amongst others. Looking ahead a year, in 2025 we will be celebrating the 60th anniversary of our bilateral relationship with Singapore. We’re already planning how we will celebrate! Once again, wishing you all a very happy and healthy year ahead and I look forward to continuing work (and play) with ANZA in 2024.

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CMY

ANZA TOURS JAN/FEB 12

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Explore the island on these fun, insightful, and interactive tours that immerse you in Singapore’s vibrant communities and local culture.

Photography & Social Media Masterclass in Little India

Want to improve your social media posts? Can’t figure out how to make a reel? This fun tour will help you up your social media game. During the session, social media wizard Lizzy Homersham from @theconsciouslizzy will take us on a stroll through Little India, giving us tips on which photos and videos to take to capture the area. Afterwards, we’ll head back to the ANZA office where we’ll create some social media magic ourselves with Lizzie’s help.

DATE: Wednesday 17 January TIME: 9am – 12pm MEET: 8.50am, Tekka Centre EXERTION: Medium. Some walking in the heat required, plenty of rest stops available TOUR GUIDE: Lizzy Homersham COST: Members $40, nonmembers, $45

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Thaipusam

Thaipusam is one of the most interesting Hindu festivals. You will see how devotees enter a trance-like state and some have their bodies pierced by metal spikes. A colourful procession then takes place with participants carrying heavy, richly decorated ‘kavadis’ from a temple in Serangoon Road as they walk 4km to another Hindu temple. Along the way, our guide, Charlotte, will explain about the legends and rituals of Thaipusam. You will have a chance to observe the procession and enjoy the atmosphere, music, chanting, and clapping of the participants. At the temple, you will see how the devotees prepare for this significant walk. The bus will also take us to the end of the procession where you can witness the devotees taking out the spikes with nary a drop of blood. DATE: Thursday 25 February TIME: 4pm – 7pm MEET: 3.50pm, Newton Hawker Centre EXERTION: Medium. Some walking in the heat required, plenty of rest stops available TOUR GUIDE: Charlotte Chu COST: Members $50, non-members, $60 Notes: Please dress modestly and wear comfortable footwear for this tour. The tour ends in River Valley and the bus will not be going back to Newton

Yip Yew Chong’s Street Art in Chinatown

This informative tour combines the unique street art of famous Singaporean artist Yip Yew Chong with the history of Chinatown. We’ll begin with a visit to the Thian Hock Keng Temple, built in 1838 by Hokkien immigrants. Then we’ll follow the artist’s trail of murals which span from 2016 until 2023 and depict customs, traditions, real people, his family members (and his cat). Our guide, Sarah Lev, will share stories related to each mural as well as interesting facts about the street artist’s life before we continue through Chinatown to see Yip Yew’s Chinatown home mural and his recent Clog maker mural. DATE: Wednesday 31 January TIME: 10am – 12:30pm MEET: Telok Ayer MRT EXERTION: High. Substantial walking in the heat required. Expect to be on your feet for most of this tour with infrequent rest stops TOUR GUIDE: Sarah Lev COST: Members $40, non-members, $45 January/February 2024

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Historical Tour & Morning Tea at Capella Singapore

We’re going fancy on this heritage tour of Capella Singapore. See first-hand why this hotel was recently recognised in the inaugural edition of The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2023, amongst other accolades. The Capella Culturist will take us on an enthralling journey around the grounds as they share some of the resort’s stories. We’ll see restored colonial buildings that date back to the 1880s, from which the hotel extends into gardens framed by the sea; and learn how Architect Lord Norman Foster of Fosters + Partners designed the resort to sit in harmony with nature, while combining old-world charm with contemporary chic. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy a decadent morning tea in The Living Room, a space which was once the Officers’ Mess of the Royal Artillery, where British officers had their meals and held parties. DATE: Monday 5 February TIME: 9.30am – 11.30am MEET: 9.20am, Capella Singapore EXERTION: Medium. Some walking in the heat required, plenty of rest stops available COST: Members $55, non-members, $65

In this tour, to the Eastern side of the island, we will follow the historical events which led to the fall of Singapore into the hands of the Japanese during WWII. Many prisoners of war and civilian internees were imprisoned in Changi Prison, which at one point held over 10,000 prisoners. Our visit to the Changi Chapel and Museum, which replaced the old prison, will give us a chance to learn about the hardship of the prisoners and how they managed to keep up their spirits in order to survive. We will see artefacts, murals, and hear personal stories. We’ll witness the replicas of the Monster Gun at the Johor Battery before we head towards our last stop, the Changi Beach Massacre site where the ethnic cleansing known as Sook Ching took place. DATE: Saturday 24 February TIME: 9:30am – 1pm MEET: 9.20am, Newton Hawker Centre EXERTION: Medium. Some walking in the heat required, plenty of rest stops available TOUR GUIDE: Sarah Lev COST: Members $75, non-members, $85 14

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Hawker Explorer – Ghim Moh

Join us on ANZA’s new series of tours where we explore different hawker centres and areas around Singapore. This month we’re heading to Ghim Moh Market and Food Centre. We’ll start with a little meander around Holland Village before we walk to Ghim Moh. This bustling local market hawker centre is open from early morning until late at night, making it a great place to grab a quick bite or a full meal. The atmosphere is lively, with people from all walks of life coming to enjoy the food. Ghim Moh is home to Michelin Bib Gourmand stall Boneless Braised Duck, and stalls offering famous Chwee Kueh and Meatball Noodles, so come hungry!

Ghim Moh Market & Food Centre FB

Changi Chapel and Museum

DATE: Wednesday 28 February TIME: 11am – 1.30pm MEET: 10.45am, Holland Village MRT EXERTION: Medium. Some walking in the heat required, plenty of rest stops available COST: Members/non-members, $15. Any excess cost on the day goes to ANZA charities Notes: There will not be a professional guide for this tour

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Tuesday 19 March 2024, New Zealand High Commissioner’s Residence, 6:30pm for a 7pm start

Annual General Meeting 2024 All members are invited to take part in the ANZA Annual General Meeting 2024, at the New Zealand High Commissioner’s Residence, followed by a cocktail reception. Learn about the ANZA community with reports from our sporting and interest groups, find out about our financial standing, participate in the election of our new Executive Committee, and network with members of the ANZA community. Interested in getting involved in the community? Join the ANZA Executive Committee! The following positions on the ANZA Executive Committee are open for nomination: President

Membership Secretary

Vice President

Community Service Coordinator

Executive Secretary

Sporting Coordinator (Two Positions)

Executive Treasurer

Executive Committee Member (Six Positions)

For full position descriptions, online nomination form, and event registration, please refer to the ANZA website at anza.org.sg/agm If you’re interested, or know someone who would be a great fit, please complete the online nomination form by Tuesday 27 February 2024

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WHAT’S ON

Singapore Art Week (SAW) returns from 19 - 28 January 2024, giving those who get the January blues something lively to look forward to. This year there’ll be 150 visual arts experiences by over 400 partners from all over the world. The ‘Light To Night Festival’ is always a showstopper, with its array of dazzling installations dotted around the island. ‘Art After Dark’ also promises to be a goodie: two distinct nights of entertainment include Rave Night, which features local electronic music artists, and Prom Night, which has live bands and DJ sets. Meanwhile, ART SG fair (artsg.com), will showcase contemporary art from around the world, large-scale installations, curated talks, and film programmes. artweek.sg 16

Images Courtesy of At Week

ILLUMINATING MOMENTS

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GO POTTY FOR HARRY

Ever since Universal Studios opened in Singapore, Potterheads have been patiently casting spells for some Hogwarts action, too. And huzzah - February sees Warner Bros studio bringing its Wizardly World set, Harry Potter: A Forbidden Forest Experience to Sentosa. The Coastal Trail will be transformed into a captivating night time woodland trail (aka the iconic Forbidden Forest), featuring mystical creatures from the Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts series. Celebrating some of the most iconic forest scenes from the film series, visitors can come face-to-face with the likes of Hippogriff, Nifflers, and more. From 3 February

hpforbiddenforestexperience.com/singapore

EXPAT STORIES WANTED

Despite its ever-changing landscape, Singapore works hard to preserve its history through storytelling. A new project supported by My Community and Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth titled ‘My Little Singapore’ seeks to celebrate the diversity of the island through the different people, places, and practices of the different communities who live here. One section will be dedicated to the lives of expats, so if you’re an Aussie or Kiwi with a unique and inspiring anecdote to share about life here in SG, get in touch at jamie@ mycommunity.org.sg. Let’s represent!

BROADWAY CALLING!

If you’ve heard the hype around the critically acclaimed musical Hamilton, here’s your chance to experience it at Sands Theatre at Marina Bay Sands. Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, this smash takes the story of American founding father Alexander Hamilton and turns it into a revolutionary moment in theatrical history. Culture, politics, and education are all covered alongside exceptional crooning. 19 April - 26 May

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OUT & ABOUT

F E AT U R E

NEW MEMBERS DRINKS

This buzzy event welcomed new and existing ANZA members for an evening of mingling. It was especially good to have our sub-group volunteers join us to spread the word about ANZA’s plethora of sporting and social activities for all.

NEW MEMBERS MORNING TEA

We gathered at Singapore Cricket Club for tea, convos, prize draws, and insightful talks from Select Investors, Expat Dental, International Medical Clinic, and Odin Mortgage.

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SCOUTS

There was Dib Dib Dibbing and Dob Dob Dobbing from ANZA Scouts who ended the season at MacRitchie Reservoir working on their Level 2 Bushwalking badge. The group have their theme of ‘Connections’ all set for the year ahead, and a new base at Invictus International School.

SOCCER

ANZA Soccer said a fond farewell to The Cage at Turf City. The venue has been hosting ANZA’s soccer practice and games since the early 2000s, but the closure means we’ll be moving to the Canadian International School and The Cage, Dempsey in 2024. Thankfully, our volunteers and Coach Yakob are coming with us!

NETBALL

ANZA Netball completed 2023 with a special ‘Christmas Morning’. Our volunteers got into the seasonal spirit with some natty headgear, and our players revelled in the chance to practice as many shots as possible ... for the camera that is! January/February 2024

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TOURS

Kusu Island and St John’s Island were destinations for ANZA Tours who enjoyed exploring, swimming, and seeing the sights away from SG.

CASUAL COFFEE

Even if you can’t make a Casual Coffee event, regular attendees are always included, on colour print-outs!

GOLF

Birdies, beverages, and banter accompanied the last sessions of the year. Always up for a game and a giggle, watch this space for golfing antics in 2024!

ANZA ACTION

ANZA Action volunteers Virginia and Alex joined the Salvation Army and Starbucks initiative, serving food and drinks to the masses at Great World City. Their hard work was rewarded with a Thanksgiving lunch at the SA Family Centre in Tiong Bahru.

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MAHJONG

PICKLEBALL

We’re glad we launched ANZA Pickleball last year! So many members have signed up to learn the “hottest new sport in town”, and we can’t wait to welcome more players over the coming months.

Mahjong got very merry and bright with end-of-year games and dining out. We’ve never seen them without a board by their side!

KILL-O-METRES

Who knows how many miles our happy wanderers racked up last year, but it was many! From the PCN to parks, the CBD to nearby islands, they covered it all!

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FAST TRACK TO FUN It may have been the last leg for the ANZA Melbourne Cup Race Day at Singapore Turf Club before the venue closes, but that didn’t stop the good times flowing.

ack in November, we welcomed hundreds of ANZA members and friends to Singapore Turf Club for the ANZA Melbourne Cup Race Day 2023. This iconic event included a gorgeous meal and drinks, charity prize draws in aid of Riding For The Disabled, Singapore (RDA), live betting and sweeps, our Fashions on the Field competition, and the horse racing beamed in live from Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne. A wonderful day was had by all. A shout-out goes to our Platinum and Presenting Sponsor, Global Financial Consultants. We’d also like to extend our gratitude to Mr Allaster Cox, Australian High Commissioner to Singapore, and Mr Keith Conway,

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Deputy High Commissioner, New Zealand High Commission in Singapore, who both joined the revelry. Last but not least it’s a big thank you to Singapore Turf Club who has partnered with ANZA for over a decade to bring the ANZA Melbourne Cup Race Day to life here on the island. As the Turf Club is due to close permanently in 2024, this was the last Melbourne Cup to be held at the venue. We know we’re not alone in saying that we will miss this special space very much, but the many memories made will stay with us for years to come. This final ride together was a very important event for everyone involved.

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2024 APPLICATIONS

NOW OPEN Join us for Year 12 in August International Baccalaureate Diploma International BTEC in Business Level 2 International BTEC in Business Level 3

SIXTH FORM SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE

Our success is measured not by who goes the furthest, but by how many go further than they thought possible.

www.dovercourt.edu.sg

+65 6775 7664

admissions@dovercourt.edu.sg

Dover Court International School (Pte) Ltd is registered with the Committee for Private Education. CPE Registration No: 197100313E Registration Period: 05/07/2023 to 04/07/2027 | The Committee for Private Education (CPE) is part of SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG)

ANZA Full Page Ad Kids-Back to School Magazine Jan Feb 2024 V2.indd 1

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PROUDLY PRESENTED BY

AUSTRALIAN INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL

THE ANZA

Join us for an unforgettable night of glamour, exquisite cuisine, and live music. Experience the magic of community as we create an evening to remember!

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C H E C K OU T

DRAGON PLAYGROUND: Toa Payoh

Hidden amongst Singapore's sparkling skyscrapers are a handful of old-school playgrounds for children. Here's where to find them (and snap a few Insta shots as you go!).

ids these days, eh? Playtime is all about fancy electronics, customised content, and something called AI. Scraped knees, slide-burns, and tyre-swings that are only fun when more than two little humans are squeezed onto them are a thing of the past. But wait! There are still a few playgrounds dotted around the island offering retro fun for families wanting tech-free time together. Designed by Mr. Khor Ean Ghee, a former designer at the Housing Development Board throughout the 70s and 80s, the playgrounds were built to be functional, convey a sense of Singapore’s identity, and depict local heritage. A veritable vision of concrete, mosaic tiles, fruit, animals, and wild colours, no-one's quite sure just how long they'll remain, so get there before they go. 28

A social media feed-filler, the Dragon Playground at Toa Payoh is the crown jewel of retro playgrounds on the red dot. Built around 1978, Mr Khor transformed a formidable, mythical creature into an imaginative play structure where children could crawl along its metal spines, swing on tethered ropes, and zip down terrazzo-tiled slides. While safety restrictions may prevail today, it’s still an absolute joy to visit. In 2024, besides the famous Toa Payoh dragon, you'll also see smaller dragons in the same area. Sadly, many other dragon playgrounds in Singapore have been tragically slayed over the years. Blk 28 Toa Payoh Lor 6, 310028 28 Lor 6 Toa Payoh, 310028 Ang Mo Kio Ave 3, 560570 Blk 54 Pipit Road, 370054

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DINOSAUR PLAYGROUNDS: Kim Keat Avenue & Woodlands

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Forget the modern-day dinosaurs that hang out around Changi, also hidden within Toa Payoh estate are some original dinosaur structures (okay, they’re millennial!). Built in the 00s, they don’t showcase mosaic or terrazzo tiles, but the dinosaurs are still iconic landmarks in the Kim Keat neighborhood. The threemetre tall Tyrannosaurus Rex with five eggs by its side takes centre stage, while a green Stegosaurus offers a platform for little ones to play on. Another dinosaurthemed playground from the 90s can be found at Woodlands - this one features Ouranosaurus and Brontosaurus with backs perfect for sliding on. Blk 27 Kim Keat Avenue, 730827 Fushan Garden, Woodlands St 81,730827

WATERMELON & MANGOSTEEN PLAYGROUNDS: Tampines Central Park Distinct red, green and yellow mosaic tiles give this fruity fun spot away from afar. Built in 1989, the watermelon playground was designed as a nod to the fruit farms of rural Tampines before the town was developed. Practically next door, you’ll find mangosteen domes which are ideal for hide-and-seek, or a shelter from the sun. When these playgrounds first opened, they stood on sandpits before the introduction of rubber mats. Today, they're both part of the Tampines Heritage Trail. Tampines Central Park, Tampines Street 83, 520865

ELEPHANT PLAYGROUND: Pasir Ris Park

roots.gov.sg

Much like its traditional counterparts, Elephant Playground offers a seriously nostalgic selection of play structures designed to help children refine their skills. It features swings and crawl tunnels, but the elephant’s trunk-shaped slide is the out-and-out winner! 125 Pasir Ris Road, Pasir Ris Park, inside the Home Team NS Chalet, 659003

roots.gov.sg

Sampan Playground: Pasir Ris, Elias Mall Located beside Elias Mall in Pasir Ris, this sampan-shaped playground was built in 1994. Inspired by the iconic bumboats that have sailed the Singapore River for over 150 years, you'll note that the colour scheme of this space reflects a sampan with its green, red, brown, black and white tiles. This charming playground is not your typical sampan with its mosaic creation divided into two distinct halves: one half features a tire ladder, while the other half boasts a terrazzo slide. 623 Elias Rd, 510623 January/February 2024

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LOCAL LIFE

From your childhood teddy bear, to your baby’s beloved Jellycat, most of us know a toy that means something special. And when it starts to show wear and tear? It’s time for emergency surgery.

hen Jane Cher’s mum announced that she had “watched all the YouTube videos she was interested in”, Jane knew she had to do something. Over the past few years Jane had watched her mum leave her full-time office job to become a housewife at the family home. “Her day had a very monotonous routine,” Jane, 25, says. “She’d

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when I explained how much my toys meant to me - giving me a sense of comfort and familiarity since I was a child - she came around to the idea.” Telling Jane to “bring me the customers and I’ll do it for you!” the challenge was on.

Comfort & familiarity

get up, do some chores, cook lunch for the family, do more chores, make dinner, and watch online videos. I could tell she was bored and I wanted to help her.” Worried for her mum, Jane started trying to think of fun ways to bring more joy and purpose into her life. After a few days, she recalled the time when she was 17 years old, and her mum repaired her childhood Winnie-The-Pooh toys for her. “I remembered how pleased she was after she’d replaced the old stuffing to make them as good as new,” Jane says. “She was so satisfied to see me happy. I wanted Mum to feel that way again.” When Jane suggested the idea of mending toys to her mum, she was not convinced. “Mum didn’t think people would want their old toys repaired when they could just buy new ones, but

Jane came up with the name for Stuffed Toys Hospital, launched a Facebook page, designed a company logo, and created a contact form for customers looking to give their toys some TLC. Four months after setting up in 2018, they received their first enquiry from a lady with an old Eeyore in need of new stuffing. The ‘patient’ was dropped off at Aljunied MRT and the ‘operation’ was completed in just a few hours. Says Jane, “The lady left us a really good review online, I added a video onto social media, and the rest is history.” Business at Stuffed Toys Hospital boomed. What started as a side hustle to inject some fun into her mum’s day soon developed into several toys in need arriving daily. Jane’s online postings of ‘before and after’ images drummed up interest fast, and her mum’s skills developed quickly. “Mum devised some great repair methods such as her cleaning technique which involves carefully removing stuffing, using certain cleaning agents to minimise damage, and being mindful of the patient’s original fabric to determine the best drying process,” Jane explains. Before long, Stuffed Toys Hospital was welcoming up to 30 patients a month into their home with a variety of ailments: threadbare hands, discolouration, and poor eyesight were common conditions. Some had been in fights with other people or pets. Many simply no longer had an oomph for life. Despite having no formal sewing training, Jane started to learn the January/February 2024

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ropes from her mum so she could assist with repairs around her day job as an Operations Manager. However, in 2022 when patient turnover reached 50 toys per month, Jane quit her full-time employment to dedicate her time to the toys.

Is there a toy doctor in the house? A small history of patients.

.T. had been accompanying his guardian since he was little, being there for him when he got scolded as a child. Unfortunately, E.T. was washed in the washer by his guardian’s spouse and his neck got horribly torn. E.T. was with us for eight weeks, mostly because we had no idea where to start.

Tale behind the toy Jane continues to run the hospital from the family’s HDB flat, and to date they’ve saved the lives of over 5,000 patients. Now her mum has a full-time job, Jane oversees every element of the business herself, including answering requests, meeting the customers, making a diagnosis, carrying out surgery, monitoring the aftercare, and returning the patient safely. She keeps on top of stock by shopping online and making regular visits to Spotlight and Chinatown. On average, Jane works on three toys at a time and the hours are long - up to 15 hours per day during hectic periods. Yet passion drives her forward. Jane, who studied architecture at Singapore University of Technology and Design says the toy hospital has opened up her mind to creative possibilities. “My previous education helps with what I do now,” she says. “In architecture, you have the concept, the design phase, the drawing phase - it’s the same when a toy comes in. I have to devise a systematic way of making the repairs successful with an added artistic touch.” As every toy is different, Jane says there is no fixed way to operate and she’ll do “a little bit of everything each day” including washing, drying, cleaning, stuffing, sewing, and more. Intense projects like fabric replacement or facial rejuvenation take her up to one day. When she meets customers, they inevitably tell Jane a tale behind the toy. Many are from childhood (her eldest customer is in his 60s); others are prized possessions of young children; one toy gets a Christmas clean every year. A lot belong to men, but they’re admitted by a female on their behalf. One husband presented Jane with the Dumbo toy he’d bought for his now wife 20 years ago - he requested it be spruced up as an anniversary present. Such an emotional attachment between the customer and toy burdens Jane with a huge sense of responsibility once the patient is in her care. “I do get nervous that I won’t be able to achieve exactly what’s required,” she says. Thankfully, over the years she has learned what’s achievable and what’s not. For example, someone asking for an old toy to be repaired to “look like new” is unrealistic. “Instead, the toy will just end up looking ‘different’ which nobody wants for a toy that’s meaningful to them,” explains Jane, recalling a particularly painful procedure involving a Piglet. She also rejects toys if they’ve almost disintegrated from too much love, or too many play dates, and their original look and shape is unrecognisable. Very old vintage toys where the stuffing is an old type of polyester, or the stitching is so different from how it is today, are also turned down in case any work causes further damage. Jane says earnestly, “If the patient is not going to pull through, I will be honest.” The best moment is when the patient is discharged. “It’s only when I see the customer smile and know that they’re happy with the result that I relax.” Alongside her schedule, Jane continues to showcase the toy transformations on social media. In addition, she runs Toy Workshops and designs and makes little toy outfits. 32

arney came in with fabric thinning all over his body. The owner is super-lucky that we were able to find a very similarlooking fabric for him. It was requested for the light green handkerchief to be kept as it is, but stitched nicely to the belly.

ei Mei was originally light yellow/offwhite. Pinky promise we didn’t swap Mei Mei out for another completely different stuffed dog.

shuah has been accompanying his little owner since his NICU days. We could see that he had been well-loved by his owner. Look at the satisfaction on Ishuah’s face after the intense deep cleaning session!

Despite the tireless nature of her work, Jane adores that her job is artistic and challenges her every day. Starting Stuffed Toys Hospital has also brought her closer to her mum. “I feel like she’s the only one who understands what I’m doing,” she says. “The business has strengthened my relationship with her which is a huge plus. Mum really feels like part of me.” Aljunied MRT Station, 388310

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REAL LIFE

“ANZA Mahjong made me an author!” Natasha Peart is all the proof you need that joining ANZA can change your life. Her debut book was fully inspired by becoming part of our unique community.

reative writer Natasha Peart moved from Ireland to Singapore in 2015. When the pandemic hit, she felt displaced as more of her social circle started to repatriate. Realising it was time to make some new connections, she signed up to ANZA. It was Natasha’s dog, Truffles, who led her to ANZA Mahjong during the pandemic. As they walked past Boomerang on Robertson Quay, she spotted our regular group of players hunched over mahjong boards, lost in concentration. Intrigued and envious of their pastime (when she had to return to work!), Natasha decided to find out more via a mutual friend who was already part of the ANZA Mahjong group. She found herself signing up. “I’d never played before - the closest I’d come was playing Bridge with the nuns at school!” she admits. Little did she know how much the game would impact her life.

For those who don’t know, what exactly is mahjong?

Mahjong is usually played by four people, with 136 or 144 rectangular pieces called tiles. The goal of the game is similar to poker, in that the aim is to make matching sets and pairs. A set is three or four identical tiles or three consecutive tiles (or ‘melds’), and a pair is two of the same tiles (or ‘eyes’). To win mahjong a player must form four sets and one pair. You’re dealt a sequence of tiles (‘a hand’) and then you take turns drawing tiles from ‘the pack’ (aka ‘the wall’). The first person to form their sequence of tiles has ‘mahjong’. 34

Tell us about your first mahjong session with ANZA …

I was very nervous! But the mahjong group leader at the time broke the game down and made it something understandable and doable. On that first day I made new friends who I’m still close to over three years on.

ANZA Mahjong I was lucky to learn to play both Asian and Western mahjong simultaneously.

How often did you play in the beginning?

Due to Covid restrictions at the time, we played in small groups in people’s homes.

What did you most enjoy about playing? I love the social aspect of the game, the mental workout, and the fun. There’s always something to learn and you get a lot of tips from other players who’ve played mahjong elsewhere in the world.

So there’s more than one version of the game?

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This really opened the frequency up and I got addicted quite quickly! I’d play at least once a week with ANZA.

How did your new book, Chow & Pung: The Social Mahjong Player’s Guide, come about?

In mahjong, chows and pungs refer to sequencing in the tiles: a chow being a run of three, a pung being three of a kind. The idea for the book came to me the first time I played. In Western mahjong, players commonly use a book as a reference during the game. The book we were using at ANZA Mahjong felt dated and offered no gameplay guidance at all.

Is this how your book stands out?

It made sense for Chow & Pung to offer some how-to-play guidance, especially when it comes to forming specific hands. Starting out, players usually stick to what’s known as ‘Ordinary Mahjong’; it’s a great, very straightforward hand. The broad selection of hands can be overwhelming so I’ve included a Starter Hands section in the book – a selection of hands which is perfect for beginners.

Had you written books before?

I’ve ghostwritten books for some highprofile clients but Chow & Pung is the first published under my own name.

What’s your ultimate goal for Chow & Pung? To make mahjong accessible and fun to play. I hope that with the help of my book, anyone can enjoy mahjong without feeling intimidated. It’s both a reference and teaching guide and encourages you not to be afraid of getting stuck.

How long did it take you to write? Now you’re no longer living About a year. I carried out a lot of research in Singapore, do you still play and went through many prototypes. At mahjong? the time of writing, I was living in an older landed home which was full of character. I felt it had seen lots of mahjong games over the years!

Absolutely! I’ve found a lovely group of mostly expats and we play a weekly game. And Chow & Pung has been a fantastic resource for new players to go by!

Was it challenging to write?

Find out more about ANZA Mahjong on our website at anza.org.sg/groups/ mahjong/

It certainly went through many iterations! I enjoyed breaking down the game and telling it as a story in places, sharing tips I’d picked up from players along the way along with pitfalls to avoid.

How do people respond when they discover you’ve written a book about mahjong?

At first, people are very surprised. Then they’re intrigued and keen to learn more. Some of the new hands are named after ANZA friends and family, so it’s always fun when someone spots one. Look out for ANZA Diamond member, MaryAnne Battistessa’s hand, and of course, our ANZA Mahjong organisers past and present, Mandy Reinders-Hall and Sue Chamberlain. My husband Don and our dogs also get a mention!

What tips do you have for those interested in learning mahjong?

First, don’t take it too seriously and enjoy yourself! ANZA is a fantastic place to learn mahjong and it has a wonderfully inclusive atmosphere. Something I did during lockdown, which certainly helped my gameplay, was to put my mahjong tiles in a bowl and deal myself hands, then pick tiles until I had mahjong. This way, I grew familiar and comfortable with a great range of hands available.

ANZA is a fantastic place to learn mahjong and it has a wonderfully inclusive atmosphere

Fascinating Mahjong Facts

In Chinese “mah jong” literally translates to “sparrows” Mahjong is said to have evolved from a card game first played in China over a thousand years ago, devised by a fisherman to distract sailors from the hardships of life at sea. Another popular legend links the game to Chinese philosopher Confucius A 2020 study from Frontiers in Neurology found that playing mahjong for 12 weeks (three times per week) improved the function of memory, planning and organisation The longest mahjong game recorded so far is believed to have been played by three Russians in December 2012. The game lasted 33 hours, 3 minutes and 45.8 seconds Chow & Pung: The Social Mahjong Player’s Guide is available from Amazon Prime, $18.99. amazon.sg January/February 2024

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

Join The Club Fostering a sense of belonging helps students feel connected and valued. Rohan Janaki, Grade 11 Student and Big 6 - Academic Ambassador at NLCS (Singapore) offers insights into the vital role of school clubs and societies.

chools should be more than just institutions for academic learning; they should support students to grow into who they’re meant to be. Creating an environment where children cultivate confidence, derive enjoyment from their activities, and foster a sense of belonging and community is essential. Crucially, their development should encompass more than knowledge acquisition. In this environment, clubs and societies allow students to explore their interests and talents, develop a sense of self, and forge lasting connections. Academic clubs and societies extend the curriculum, providing opportunities for students to delve deeper into subjects that capture their interest as well as discover new passions. They allow students to break away from the structure of a classroom, curriculum or syllabus and flourish as independent learners and problem solvers. This often involves research, debates, or projects encouraging critical thinking and problem-solving. These opportunities not only allow students to take their learning into their own hands but also share their passion with other students whilst developing invaluable life skills like leadership, public speaking, collaboration, goal setting and delivering on outcomes. Non-academic clubs and societies provide a space for personal

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development more overtly linked to life skills. They nurture talents and interests outside the academic realm and counterbalance the classroom’s academic environment. These can include sports clubs, art clubs, music ensembles, or social justice groups, allowing students to find their niche, express themselves, and develop new skills.

How can clubs & societies help students?

INTEREST: Clubs and societies offer students the freedom to step away from the curriculum and delve into subjects or activities that truly pique their interest, stimulating their intellectual curiosity and cultivating subject passion that inspires life-long learning. This intrinsic motivation is more powerful than the extrinsic motivation of examinations RESILIENCE: Teams win and lose, whether in debates, chess or rugby; those losses should hurt. In experiencing challenges and setbacks, whether in the form of competition, critique, or failure, students learn to deal with them in a low-stakes and safe environment. Developing the ability to bounce back from adversity and adapt to new circumstances is crucial in a rapidly changing world SUPPORT: Networks built through common interests and goals provide essential support during difficult times. In particular, clubs across teaching and year groups can provide an alternate perspective EXPERTISE: Everyone is unique, but until we start developing our

own talents, it can be difficult to stand out. Students who actively engage in clubs and societies are able to demonstrate their expertise more effectively CONFIDENCE: Participation in clubs and societies and the subsequent development of expertise allows students to develop confidence in their own abilities, whether it’s through honing a skill, practising an instrument, public speaking or leading a team. Whilst developed within a club, confidence is transferable to all aspects of their academic and personal lives LEADERSHIP: Clubs offer opportunities that allow students to influence and motivate others. These interactions are the starting point for more formalised leadership roles within the club structure, enabling students to develop critical skills, including decision-making, teamwork, and effective communication DIVERSITY: Clubs that are open to all students send a clear message that every student’s interest and background are valued. This openness extends beyond clubs, shaping the school’s culture by encouraging acceptance and understanding and reducing discrimination and bullying Clubs and societies are essential components of a holistic education. They not only facilitate the student’s personal growth but also contribute to the vibrant tapestry of their school community. Clubs and societies create a welcoming environment where students can grow in confidence and develop a support network and a strong sense of belonging. These extracurricular activities extend education beyond the classroom, beyond syllabi and curriculum, and allow students to explore their own interests, passions, and talents. Moreover, they promote learning, foster intellectual curiosity and a love for education, and offer students unique opportunities to develop resilience and acquire leadership skills. Ultimately, these extracurricular activities are not just an integral part of the educational journey; they are a cornerstone in shaping rounded individuals who are prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

North London Collegiate School (Singapore) 130 Depot Road, Singapore, 109708 nlcssingapore.sg admissions@nlcssingapore.sg January/February 2024

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

How House on the Hill encourages children to explore, discover, imagine and create outdoors for holistic development.

lay is an integral part of children’s learning and development. Through play, children engage in active exploration, experimentation, and problem-solving, fostering cognitive growth and creativity. When play experiences are fun and spontaneous, children are more likely to retain information and develop a lifelong love of learning. House on the Hill nurtures this natural curiosity and engagement, providing children with opportunities to discover, create, and grow through play. Using the outdoor spaces as play areas, children have numerous opportunities to explore, discover and learn. They head outdoors for open-ended play in the playgrounds, get dirty in mud kitchens, have spontaneous storytelling sessions with loose parts play, lay a picnic mat out for snacks, or simply move the classroom outside. At House on the Hill, they bring children to nature, and bring nature to the children. They aim for a balance of free play and Montessori-inspired activities that help little ones to care for and learn about their environment, many of which can be reproduced at home.

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Here is some Montessori-led advice for parents when playing outdoors:

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Just like in a Montessori classroom, children outside should be free to choose their activities and follow what interests them. Adults can help guide them and set appropriate boundaries, while still allowing freedom of movement, choice and time. Consider the limits that are set in a Montessori classroom: respect for oneself, respect for others; and respect for the environment. When conversing with your child, use lots of open-ended questions to lead them to tell you more about their play, such as “Tell me more” or “What if”. Try to minimise restrictions for your child playing outdoors to encourage creativity and exploration - obviously keeping any safety considerations in mind. There are so many options for outdoor play in Singapore with the great weather and environment. Here are some ideas:

Go on a nature walk

Collect leaves or flowers to craft into art at home. Don’t forget to find different things to count (e.g. how many birds are in the tree), and practice maths skills at the same time.

Bring the garden indoors

Use leftover food scraps to plant an indoor garden. This is a great way to expose children to new flavours and smells, and to get them interested in food production and science. We recommend herbs, garlic or onions.

WE BRING CHILDREN TO NATURE, AND BRING NATURE TO THE CHILDREN

Create a loose parts play corner

Loose parts play involves providing children with openended, adaptable materials that ignite their imaginations and encourage creative exploration. Toys include wooden blocks, magnetic tiles, rainbow blocks, pebbles, assorted flat marbles, assorted sizes of LEGO bricks, and so on. Dr. Maria Montessori said that “play is the work of the child”. There is an incredible amount of research highlighting how beneficial exposure to nature and outdoor play is for children. There are even positive environmental impacts when children learn to appreciate and care for nature. So be sure to find some time to get outdoors and have some fun in the sun!

Join us for a school tour and discover House on the Hill today! Our familyrun schools are centrally located in Mount Sophia, Balmoral Crescent, Pasir Panjang and the Hollandse Club, with programmes for children aged 18+ months to six years old. Find out more at www.houseonthehill.com.sg/welcome

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The Art of School Selection Choosing the right school for your child is a huge decision for every parent. Here's what to consider before making a call.

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f you thought that choosing your child’s name, bedroom colour scheme and first-birthday outfit was stressful, wait until it comes to their education. Deciding on a school in which to enrol your child is probably one of the most important decisions you’ll initiate as a parent. Making the right call could lead them on a path of lifelong learning, a good college education, and then a successful and enjoyable career. But what if you choose wrong? Talk about pressure! As you start exploring, you’ll soon realise that even here on the tiny island of Singapore, you have dozens of options, and they’re all a little bit different. Looking through websites and brochures may seem overwhelming and exhausting at first, however, you’ll probably discover several schools that meet your requirements fairly well. After this, it's time to fine-tune your choices by making some visits. As you set foot on the campuses that pique your interest, you’ll start to better understand how they work for you and your child. Reaching a decision will become easier when you start asking yourself the right questions about each school you see and comparing the responses. So, once there what should you look for? What questions should you be asking the school and why? Sarah Farris, Dean of Student Life, Singapore American School (sas.edu.sg), shares some important factors that should influence your decision.

Keeping students engaged Children thrive in their learning when they’re not confined to a single spot all day. Young learners require movement, stimulation, and variety. They often prefer shifting between quiet spaces and active play areas. How does your school’s educational philosophy match with the physical settings?

ASK

Home school partnership Every school differs when it comes to parental involvement. Some encourage active participation with frequent conferences, volunteering, and open communication. Others limit parental visits and conduct a more formal communication strategy. A strong home-school connection is important for student growth. What is the role of parents and the family in the programme?

ASK

diversity Look for a healthy mix of nationalities in attendance at the school and ensure that it can effectively manage the needs of a diverse student body. What kind of opportunities do students have to explain and celebrate their cultures, traditions, beliefs, and holidays at this school?

ASK

scores Ask to see a school’s actual scores and results on learning measures. For every promise a school makes, they should be able to offer you concrete reasons to believe it. What does your optimal student look like, and do you believe that all students can learn at high levels? What do you do if students appear to be struggling to succeed academically, emotionally, or socially?

ASK

Graduation and university placement Find out about the number of students who have graduated from the campus your child will attend and where these graduates have gone for further education. Especially be aware of schools that misrepresent their university placement statistics. What unique advantage does your school offer graduates? What are universities saying about your school and the students who graduate there?

ASK

Location and accessibility Curriculum delivery The way a school delivers its curriculum is as significant as the curriculum itself. Not all International Baccalaureate (IB) or Advanced Placement (AP) schools are alike. How long do teachers typically stay at the school and why do they leave?

ASK

Instead of asking how central the school is, ask how long it takes to get to their location in traffic. Being close to town doesn’t always mean quick access to schools, and this could impact on your child's learning. How long does it really take to get to school during peak hours? How could this affect their education and enjoyment of school?

ASK

As you set foot on campus, you'll start to better understand how they work for you and your child A sense of belonging When schools, parents, kids, and communities are all on the same page, children tend to do better at school, feel a sense of belonging, have higher selfconfidence, and a more positive view of education. Is there a feeling of inclusivity for all, and how does your school encourage this?

ASK

Social emotional learning (SEL) In order to be successful in and out of the classroom, students need to learn a set of social and emotional competencies (self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making). What is your approach to SEL? How do teachers develop a sense of community both in and out of school? Does your school have counsellors, psychologists, and deans of student life to support both student and parent wellbeing?

ASK

By posing these questions and carefully assessing the responses, you can make an informed decision that sets your child on the right educational path. Good luck! January/February 2024

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E UWCSEA is educating students for an uncertain future with a new pilot course, launching in August 2024. 42

ven with a crystal ball, it would be hard to predict the future. The only thing we know for sure is that with the intersection of technological, social, political, and climate changes, life ahead is going to be vastly different to the one we know today. When it comes to students, the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) states, “Schools can prepare them for jobs that have not yet been created, for technologies that have not yet been invented, to solve problems that have not yet been anticipated. It will be a shared responsibility to seize opportunities and find solutions.” Innovating for an uncertain future is a strategic focus at UWCSEA. One of many ways the College is embracing this is through the development of a new pilot course option for the International Baccalaureate (IBDP) titled, Systems Transformation: Leadership for Change. To understand more about this innovation, we spoke to Eivind Lodemel, UWCSEA teacher, IB course designer, and UWCSEA alumni.

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What are you working on with the IBDP? The new IBDP pilot course, Systems Transformation: Leadership for Change launches at UWCSEA in August 2024 to support students in gaining essential skills for their future, and pursuing an IB Diploma with greater agency and adaptability. I’m working as one of two course designers, along with a wider steering committee.

How did you become part of the project team? It’s an accumulation of many years with the UWC movement. I came to UWCSEA as a National Committee scholar from Norway in 1999 and graduated in 2001. In 2012, I returned as a teacher because of the sense of purpose that underpins all our work here. It is also this purpose that has led us to partner with the IB to create a new, exciting, and innovative course option.

‘Systems Transformation’ sounds great, but what does it mean? We considered the skill set students might need to learn that would be relevant 30 years from now and transferable to a range of professions. Following extensive research, discussion with universities, and consultation with industry experts, we arrived at five main areas of focus: Project Management Systems Thinking Design Thinking Leading for Positive Change Changemaker Mindset

“WE CONSIDERED WHAT A STUDENT MIGHT NEED AS A RELEVANT SKILL SET 30 YEARS FROM NOW”

Positive change and idealism must be paired with pragmatic thinking and practical solutions. Our new course is framed by big and ambitious ideas about creating positive change in the world, but focuses attention towards the competencies and tools needed. Students graduate with skills that can be applied to any field, industry, or workplace. In turn, these can then be used to drive positive change, where and when required.

What does this mean for the student experience? The Project-Based Learning model for this course will allow students to learn through projects that are immersive, handson, and led by curiosity. Students interested in, for example, coding, sports, arts, history, biology or design, will be able to pursue projects aligned with their direction. The course will form part of a more bespoke, relevant, and flexible IB package that supports each student’s ambitions.

Why was UWCSEA chosen to pilot this?

UWCSEA is a unique environment in the world of education. The IB recognises this, selecting UWCSEA and UWC Atlantic as partners in designing the pilot course as part of its wide-ranging, multi-year review of the diploma programme. With the potential to roll-out globally from 2030, this course will help shift the IB Diploma worldwide towards a more flexible model with more real-world learning and student agency.

How does it benefit students? I’m familiar with the concerns students and families will have: How do I ensure I’m successful? How do I develop skills relevant to my future? How do I become recognised and valued? In his article ‘When Purpose Meets Performance’, UWCSEA Head of College, Nick Alchin, addresses some of these concerns and talks about the ‘synergy’ between a mission-aligned education and academic education. We believe that students who have taken part in independent, project-based learning with a greater purpose will be highly regarded as they move on in their life journey.

UWC SOUTH EAST ASIA Dover Campus: 1207 Dover Road, Singapore, 139654 | www.uwcsea.edu.sg |

East Campus: 1 Tampines Street 73, Singapore, 528704 admissions@uwcsea.edu.sg January/February 2024

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School Daze

From learning AI to ancient poetry, sustainable design to Spanish, every day at school is different. We delve into some student timetables in Singapore.

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George Tang

do some painting, calligraphy, and much more.

Age: 6

Year: Kindergarten 2 School: House on the Hill Montessori How many lessons do you have at school each day? Every day is different. In the morning, I have lessons in Phonics and Maths. I love working on the Montessori materials. My favourites are the Roman arch, water pouring over land forms and water forms, and pinpushing on outlines activities. Sounds like some serious learning! In the afternoon, all my activities are in Mandarin. I learn ancient poetry and rhymes, make crafts, listen to stories,

I made my own glider at home and flew it in school”

What happens at lunch? Lunch is yummy! I have two favourites: beef porridge, and Mediterranean Style Fish served with bread. Now that I’m older, I help out by serving the younger children their food. Me and my friends eat together, and then we tidy our classroom before the afternoon sessions start. What job would you like to do when you grow up? I want to be a scientist. For Children’s Day this year, I dressed up as a scientist and worked on many different science experiments. I made my very own glider at home and flew it in school. I also did Oobleck play, and made artwork using food colouring, milk, and dish soap.

Please answer the following: “I enjoy school the most when …” … it’s time to play! I love the playground, especially the swing and tunnels. I also love playing with Lego and magna-tiles. Mount Sophia, Balmoral Crescent, Pasir Panjang & Hollandse Club houseonthehill.com.sg

Maisie Hiemstra Age: 15

Year: 10 School: Dulwich College (Singapore) How does your average school day look? We have six hour-long classes a day, with breaks between every two periods for snacks and lunch.

It What’s your favourite lesson? was an Art class. I love that Dulwich gives me an outlet to express my eye-opener creativity. Recently, the IGCSE art students went to the Singapore to be taught by National Gallery to study different artists and draw on-site, which a professional was great. artist” Please share a memorable assignment … Last year, the award-winning artist Ian Murphy came to Dulwich and taught a workshop. Under his guidance, I produced one of my best pieces, a drawing from a photo I took in Laos. What did you most enjoy about it? It was an eye-opener to be taught by a professional artist. It gave me time to develop a single art piece, while Ian shared techniques and methods to draw more realistic images and forms. It was one of the most beneficial, memorable, and fun days I’ve had at school. How do you spend your lunch break? Lunch breaks are fun. I mostly hang out with my friends and eat at the rooftop garden - a lush area where the school grows herbs. It has shelter and furniture which makes it a perfect spot to catch up. 71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, 658966 singapore.dulwich.org January/February 2024

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hana yamauchi Age: 16

Year: grade 11 School: north london collegiate school (singapore) What was your best lesson at school today? I enjoyed geography. My teacher is very entertaining, so I really like being in his class. Sometimes the content is challenging, but I’m not afraid to ask questions as I know I will get help. Also, the students around me are very friendly. Is geography your favourite subject? I love psychology because my teacher also has a great sense of humour, which makes the classes fun. It’s a new subject for me, and he gives us many practical examples to make us understand the different concepts. Where do you hang out for lunch? We have a Sixth Form common room for Grades 11 and 12, so I sometimes get food delivered. Today I had McDonald’s as a treat! This is something only Sixth Formers can do. If you could introduce a new lesson at school, what would it be? As a Sixth Former, I don’t have much time for leisure activities and exercising, so a whole lesson playing outside and running around, just like they have in Junior School, would be good. Dream job when you leave school? I want to be a translator or interpreter. It would be great to work in a job that involves travelling because I love languages and know English, Japanese, Mandarin, and a little Korean. Travelling My would help me to improve. 130 Depot Road, 109708 nlcssingapore.com

teacher is funny, so I really like being in his class”

oliver rogers Age: 17

Year: grade 12 School: australian international school (AIS) Which school subject do you most enjoy? Spanish. Our class is a really dynamic group and our teacher también es alegre. Language acquisition stretches such a different part of your brain compared to other subjects, so I always find it a welcome change of pace during the week. What was your stand-out lesson at school today? Chemistry. We learned about DNA sequencing and replication, which I found interesting. I have six lessons (periods) a day, each lasting just under an hour. What’s been your favourite school assignment and why? My Extended Essay. I wrote about America’s Temperance and Prohibition Movement(s). It’s the thing I put the most work into, and what I’ve been most personally engaged by in recent years. When I submitted the assignment, I was really proud of what I’d produced. How did you spend lunch break today? I hung out at the parent café with my friends. We discussed our plans for muck-up day (when uniforms are messed up and decorated, and pranks are carried out at the end of the school year). We’ve got some good stuff planned!

‘

Please answer the following: ’ “I enjoy school the most when …” … I arrive each morning and see all my friends. I’ve been lucky to have had the privilege of seeing my friends every day for the past 14 years, and I’m going to miss them once we all move away. For now, I cherish the time we have together.

I’ve had the privilege of seeing my friends every day”

1 Lorong Chuan, 556818 ais.com.sg 46

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I’d like to be a geologist, marine biologist or horseriding instructor”

charlotte patterson Age: 9

Year: g3 School: united world college of south east asia (UWCSEA) What was your best lesson at school today? Maths, because whilst it’s hard for me, I know I’m getting better. I’m learning about word problems and I’m answering more questions correctly each day. It feels good. Tell me about your lunch break … On Tuesday lunchtimes I go to Junior Singers. Otherwise, my friends and I play rock tag. In rock tag, someone can only tag you if you’re off a rock. If you’re touching a rock, they can’t tag you! What’s been your favourite school assignment so far? My friend and I made a hat out of cardboard and felt, plus all the accessories. We learned how to come up with an idea and plan it out, design different shapes, and experiment with how they connected together. We

had to connect pieces without using tape or glue, so using slots and tabs for example, and this made the design more sustainable. Last year my friends and I made a huge claw machine out of recycled material.

food. Oh, and Australian lamingtons, because my mum would be upset if I didn’t like them! Dover Campus & East Campus uwcsea.edu.sg

What job would you like to do when you leave school? I’d like to be a geologist, marine biologist, or horseriding instructor. If you could introduce a new lesson, what would it be? Bring your pet to class! Please answer the following: “I enjoy school the most when …” … we have celebration days like the UN Food Festival and UN Day. We get to wear cultural dress and celebrate everyone’s country, culture, and food. I love Vietnamese, Japanese, Indian, and Greek January/February 2024

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nils carballeira

the school playing I different games. I wrote enjoyed hosting about my own my own game migration and showing from Norway players what to Singapore”

Age: 16

Year: 11 School: chatsworth international school What’s your favourite lesson? From a very young age, I’ve looked forward to every PE class, as it allows me to forget the stress of assessments and homework. I play football in and outside of school and love doing any type of physical activity. What did you most enjoy at school today? I particularly enjoyed maths as we got to finish our probability carnival game project. After that we had students, teachers, and parents walk around

I’d made. The collected data will be used to finish my report on probability.

What’s been your best school assignment so far? I liked working on a creative task about migration in my Individuals and Societies (IS) lesson in collaboration with the English department. This specific task allowed me to write about my own migration from Norway to Singapore, which happened a little over a year ago.

My school doesn’t offer IT lessons about computers and how to use them. Occasionally, there will be an hour dedicated to preventing cyberbullying, but in a world dominated by the use of electronic devices such as mobile phones and laptops, it would be helpful to have some guidance. 72 Bukit Tinggi Road, 289760 chatsworth.com.sg

If you could introduce a new lesson at your school, what would it be?

leanne leong Age: 12

Year: grade 7 School: st joseph's institution (sjI INTERNATIONAL) Tell us about your school day ... We typically have six lessons each day, starting at 8am with a 20-minute recess at 10am. Lunch is from 12:10pm to 1pm, and the day ends at 3pm. What’s been your favourite school assignment so far? Our Adaptability Exit Point in the International Middle Years Curriculum (IMYC). We designed an ideal country, determining its location, flag, buildings, history, and laws. It made me think deeply about addressing global challenges through creative solutions. If you could introduce a new school subject, what would it be? I’d like to go out of school every week for an expedition! Field trips make learning a much more exciting and memorable experience, so students can have fun while discovering how the things they learn in school affect them in their daily lives. Please answer the following: “I enjoy school the most when …” … we come together as a school to compete in House Competitions. I love how enthusiastic everyone is when competing or cheering on their teammates. The different Houses 48

We designed an ideal country, including its location, history, and laws"

are competitive, but only in a friendly way.

What job would you like postschool? I want to become a journalist due to my passion for reading and writing. I aim to inform and engage readers with accurate and compelling news stories, features, and articles in newspapers and magazines. 38 Malcolm Road, 308274

sji.edu.sg

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

A day in my life at CIS

What is it like to be a secondary student at Canadian International School? Grade 8 student Joseph T. gives us an insight.

anadian International School (CIS) secondary student Joseph T. shared a glimpse of his timetable and dayto-day activities at CIS, saying, “My day kicks off at 8.30am with Advisory where my advisor checks in to see how I’m doing. We can chat about anything, whether it’s challenges I’m facing in school, or just life in general. I also take this time to go over my goals and get the lowdown on school activities. The rest of my day is structured around four subject blocks, each lasting 80 minutes. We study Middle Years Programme (MYP) subjects, like languages, science, art, and we have cool programmes like experiential learning that keep things interesting. Classes are challenging but really engaging. I like to jump into discussions and group projects are fun. The best part? We’re not just buried in text books; we get our hands dirty in labs or head out of class to apply what we’ve learned. Once the third period is over, it’s time for lunch - my favourite part of the day where I can break from the grind and hang with my friends at the café. Sometimes we’ll play table tennis. There’s also a 40-minute SMART (Student Maximising Achievement, Responsibility, and Time) period where I have the chance to choose my own

adventure. I usually go for student council meetings, team up with friends to work on my Service Action project, or meet with castmates to prepare for our next musical “The Addams Family” where I’m playing the role of Pugsley. Even though classes wrap up at 3:30pm, I often stick around for swim practice with the huskies or meet with my teachers for extra help. They’re always there to give a hand.”

Route to becoming university-ready

BY SECONDARY PRINCIPAL, DANIEL SMITH On top of providing a holistic learning experience, CIS offers long-term support to prepare students like Joseph for life after graduation. During Advisory, students formulate academic goals that are continuously reviewed throughout the year. Teachers, university advisors, and counsellors constantly engage with students, offering support at every step of their journey within and beyond CIS. Secondary Principal, Daniel Smith, shares that most recent CIS graduates appreciated the role the school played in shaping their university path. One student noted that she acquired essential organisational skills and others highlighted that the opportunity to gain a deeper self-awareness and the ability to identify their academic strengths helped them to select university courses.

Classes are challenging but really engaging, and group projects are fun He adds, “Our school’s vision speaks specifically to the potential for all students and our desire to feel ownership of their future. With the many paths our students take, we are building foundations for them to be prepared for the known and unknown challenges of the future.”

Learn more about CIS’s secondary programme and experience the Canadian spirit firsthand at our upcoming Open House. cis.edu.sg/oh-anza

Canadian International School 7 Jurong West Street 41 Singapore 649414 6734 8088 (Admissions) admissions@cis.edu.sg cis.edu.sg/oh-anza

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Spotlight on Schools Schools are constantly updating their offerings to ensure they stand out. Here, teachers in Singapore highlight their school’s own unique USP’s.

Tanglin Trust Shining on: The new Tanglin Centenary Music Scholarship By Rob Hall, Director of Music

he new music scholarship is one of the many ways Tanglin Trust is celebrating its upcoming centenary in 2025. We look forward to welcoming our first music scholars to Tanglin at the start of the new school year. We hope it will enable young musicians to hone their talents along with financial support. Our new music school, located over two floors of the Tanglin Centenary Building, is a central music hub where Seniors and Juniors can participate in lessons, and where ensembles and performances can happen. The exceptional new facilities inspire students to learn and achieve, and the scholarship is an embodiment of this. Student benefit: At Tanglin we believe in the importance of a holistic education and the new music scholarship is an example of students demonstrating excellence outside of the classroom. Potential scholars can showcase their passion for music inside and outside the studio and performance hall, and in doing so benefit the school as a whole. 50

Looking forward: Our impressive new Music Department and the introduction of the Centenary Music Scholarship demonstrate that Tanglin takes music very seriously, and reflects our aim to be recognised as the best school for music in Singapore and the wider region. 95 Portsdown Road, 139299 tts.edu.sg

Marlborough College Malaysia (MCM) Shining on:

Gymnastics By Laura Prentice, Head of Prep PE and Games, Head of Gymnastics

ymnastics is an upcoming sport at Marlborough College Malaysia, with a rapidly developing club programme, potential new fixtures, new equipment, and a variety of accessible opportunities on the horizon. We have been lucky to develop a programme from a few mats in the sports hall in 2020 to a gymnastics studio today. Gymnastics is a huge passion of mine and has been part of my life for many years. I’ve been coaching since I was

15 years old and owe my knowledge to my home club in the UK. Aylesbury Gymnastics Academy is home to Olympic, World, and European medalists Jessica and Jennifer Gadirova, and World, European, and Commonwealth medalist Ondine Achampong. MCM's gymnastics programme has grown to nearly 100 pupils participating every week in recreational, development and performance gymnastics. This year, we are entering the FOBISIA Gymnastics Championships for the first time and we're excited to compete with the top schools in Asia. Student benefit: Regardless of age or ability, gymnastics gives pupils the opportunity to increase strength, flexibility, endurance, and coordination, which are all skills that complement the entire sports programme at MCM. Gymnasts learn to balance on various apparatus including the beam, improve power when vaulting, swing on bars, and develop floor based skills. It's a great alternative to our major team sports. Looking forward: We hope to expand our gymnastics facility and become one of the leading schools in Asia for gymnastics. Jalan Marlborough, Puteri Harbour, Johor marlboroughcollegemalaysia.org

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Dulwich College (Singapore)

United World College of South East Asia (UWCSEA) Shining on: Innovation in education By Gemma Dawson, IB Diploma Coordinator and Andrew McCarthy, High School Vice Principal and IB Diploma Coordinator

e're currently developing an innovative new course option for the IB, the first of its kind in South East Asia and second globally alongside UWC Atlantic. The course has been developed in collaboration with the International Baccalaureate (IB) and is called ‘Systems Transformation: Leadership for Change’. It will be project-based, equipping students for the challenges of an uncertain future on a climate-changed planet. A focus lies on students embracing a ‘changemaker mindset’, while developing skills in leadership, project management, systems and design thinking. The IB is conducting a review of its 16+ programmes. As a trusted partner, we were invited to pilot this new course option. It welcomes its first student cohort in August 2024. Student benefit: Students will have taught curriculum time which equips them with the skills and mindset needed to take the initiative, build community, and lead change. It’s exciting! Looking forward: We'll continue to innovate across all five elements of our holistic learning programme, developing students into agents for positive change. Dover Campus & East Campus uwcsea.edu.sg/learning

Shining on: The first Forest School programme in a Singapore international school

the environment and people, and to consider the impact of their choices and actions. If successful, this will be a first for a FSLI training centre in Southeast Asia. 71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, Singapore, 658966 singapore.dulwich.org

By Alex Hall-Gray, Outdoor Learning Teacher, Forest School Learning Initiative (FSLI) Accredited Trainer and Assessor for Southeast Asia, Dulwich College (Singapore)

Blue House Kay Siang Shining on: Our Community Park

or the past five years we have been - and still remain - the first Forest School programme in a Singapore international school. Accredited by the UK’s Forest School Learning Initiative (FSLI), we pioneer experiential learning and problem-solving opportunities in a natural environment. Forest School delivers an impactful and holistic programme, cultivating broad skill sets that incorporate personal and ethical responsibility, environmental stewardship, risk management and identification, personal wellbeing strategies, adaptable judgement skills, and knowledge application. While Dulwich is an academically rigorous school, Forest School offers the counterbalance, providing students with the time and space to develop soft skills required to care for their mental and physical wellbeing. Student benefit: Beyond academics, Forest School develops the necessary skills for students to become future changemakers, as they recognise the sanctity of the lives of animals and the importance of environmental sustainability. These are the skills and values of future global citizens who are guided by their moral compass. Students become more capable thinkers and more responsible human beings. Looking forward: Research is in progress to incorporate the basics of the Compassionate Systems Framework (CSF) into the Forest School pedagogy. While Forest School focuses on the skills development, the CSF teaches our students to conduct themselves with compassion towards

By Rachel Khan, Senior English Educator

lue House Kay Siang’s Community Park is an expansive and lush outdoor space that all children have access to. Also known as the “Atelier Under The Sky”, we believe that this environment is unique and distinctive in comparison to other preschools in Singapore. The Community Park has been part of the school campus since it was opened in 2021. We received specialised training to navigate the benefits and risks of working in this space with the children in 2023. A treasure waiting to be discovered, we spent valuable expertise and resources over 2023 to ensure the space acted as an “additional classroom” for the children something that is hard to come by in our urban jungle. Children visited the Community Park at least once a week with their educators. Over 12 months they steadily gained confidence as they treaded over protruding tree roots. In addition, the children have grown to appreciate the flora and fauna that the space has to offer. Student benefit: We've seen children enhance their bilateral coordination, strength and balance when navigating the natural landscape. Using organic materials found in the park also offers interdisciplinary learning of concepts and skills across many developmental domains. The educators are planning alongside the children for indoor and outdoor learning and exploration, with the freedom to move between both spaces. Looking forward: This wonderful park will soon be extended to the children in other Blue House campuses in 2024. Jalan Mutiara, Rambai & Kay Siang bluehouseinternational.com January/February 2024

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Canadian International School (CIS)

Westbourne College Singapore

Shining on:

Experiential learning By Christa Craats, Experiential Learning Coordinator

One World International School (OWIS) Nanyang Campus Shining on: New initiatives in the University Counselling programme By James Sweeney, Head of School

e consistently enhance our University Counselling programme based on feedback and evolving global trends. At the commencement of the current academic year, we incorporated a ‘Career and University’ lesson into our Grade 8 curriculum. During these lessons, students have the opportunity to interact directly with our experienced counsellors. These sessions are supplemented by a cutting-edge AI-driven platform which, based on students’ individual interests, aligns them with potential careers. Student benefit: Firstly, these lessons empower students to make informed choices regarding their future academic and career pursuits. Secondly, students gain a holistic understanding of potential pathways. By creating structured options and advice, we ensure our students move forward with clarity and confidence. Looking forward: We hope to build on this USP by consistently enhancing the 'Career and University' programme based on feedback and evolving global trends.

xperiential learning is a holistic approach that provides real world learning opportunities for students both on and off campus. Our Primary Years Open Minds Programme (PYP) connects classroom learning with people and places within Singapore. Students can participate in multi-day or overnight trips, enabling them to explore and learn in local, regional, or global settings. These experiences encourage them to connect with different cultures and environments while engaging in service for a broader world perspective. CIS has experiential learning spaces such as the Outdoor Discovery Center, student-led community rooftop garden, instructional lab, kitchen, black box, dance studio, and more. Although not a curriculum itself, we've been using experiential learning over the last 15 years to enhance the students' experience by activating senses and engaging the whole learner. Student benefit: Experiential learning is fun, challenging, and encourages students to be curious, collaborative, creative, and critical thinkers. It provides opportunities for them to drive their learning in a way that is personally meaningful and intrinsically motivating. Students are engaged, enlightened and empowered. This creates a school full of happy, dedicated and curious learners where creativity, innovation and authentic service happens. Looking forward: CIS continues to look for opportunities to connect learning to the real world. We strive to leverage experiential learning to develop global citizens who are driven to take responsible action. 7 Jurong West Street 41, 649414 cis.edu.sg

Shining on: Our personalised learning approach By Gavin Clark, Principal, English Teacher

estbourne College is a unique educational setting providing IGCSE & IB pathways for students transitioning from secondary to tertiary education. We provide a boutique environment with our incredible staff-to-student ratio of 1: 6, enabling students to get the best possible academic experience. Established in Singapore in August 2023, the school's personalised learning approach empowers students to take control of their education for future success. Westbourne’s small classes have a global reach, thanks to our expanding international network of colleges. This fosters cross-collaboration and knowledge sharing, inspiring students to think on a larger scale. At Westbourne, our forward-looking perspective treats students as young professionals, offering opportunities in STEM and Business. We have a centurylong history of sending graduates to top universities worldwide, including Oxbridge and the Australian Go8. Student benefit: A personalised tutoring style approach and individualised attention. Students also have dedicated university admission specialists, industry visits and global exchange trips that offer excellent hands-on learning experiences. Being small is our strength, we get to know our students intimately. Looking forward: Westbourne education transcends classrooms, allowing students to shape their distinct senior high school experience. We are excited about guiding future generations towards high achievement and success. 491 River Valley Road, #16/03, 248371 westbournecollege.com.sg

21 Jurong West Street 81, 649075 owis.org/sg 52

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You do you! H

SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

Personalised learning and embracing individuality is at the heart of the curriculum at Marlborough College Malaysia.

ow do you learn best? The answer will be different for everyone and educators are now tapping into this concept to maximise the learning experience

for their students. This is at the heart of personalised learning; it allows students to have a say in the process so that lessons are customised. But how can educators apply this in the classroom and how does it work in practice? Understanding that each child is unique and learns differently is crucial to a personalised learning approach. It’s something that international schools naturally excel at due to the vast array of different cultures and backgrounds of their communities. These schools are about more than just academics; they give students the chance to learn about themselves and to take ownership of their learning. At Marlborough College Malaysia, a holistic approach to education means that pupils are taught about their own learning needs alongside formal lessons. Small class

Tolba, Director of Learning and Teaching, “We pride ourselves

sizes allow teachers to get to know their students not

on knowing our pupils and knowing their individual needs. Our

just in lessons, but as Tutors, Houseparents, or during

teaching isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach. We are always aiming

co-curricular activities. It’s this knowledge that permits

to make pupils aware of what skills they have, what they need

them to tailor their lessons accordingly. Says Mrs Siân

to develop, and to give them concrete techniques that they can take into any learning environment.”

Space & time

But it’s not just inside the classroom where learning is being personalised. Co-curricular activities and outdoor learning are a key part of developing an educational experience that goes beyond simply studying for exams. Recently, Marlborough College Malaysia became members of the ‘Institute of Outdoor Learning’ in the UK, and are looking to integrate outdoor learning into more lessons, using the expansive campus to enhance pupils’ experiences and cater for their different needs. “We are keen to make every activity an opportunity to learn, so every trip has an educational element to it. For example, a trip to the beach might involve an element of conservation work,” explains Director of Co-curricular at the College, Mr Lynden Astil. “The connection with nature is vital to all of us. Most of us live in quite an urban environment, but getting out into nature can change your mindset, help you to destress, and lift your mood.” All this means that a school day can look very different from one child to the next and that’s how personalised learning should look. It’s an education that allows pupils to decide how they learn, as well as equipping them with knowledge about their own needs. It allows them the space and time to follow MARLBOROUGH COLLEGE MALAYSIA Jalan Marlborough, 79200 Iskandar Puteri, Johor Malaysia malaysia@marlboroughcollege.my facebook.com/marlboroughcollegemalaysia twitter.com/marlboroughmcm instagram.com/mcmalaysia linkedin.com/school/3576015/admin

their passions and to have the confidence to try something new. More importantly, it allows them to become lifelong learners.

Find out more about Marlborough College Malaysia at marlboroughcollegemalaysia.org/admissions/ admissions-events January/February 2024

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

A World of Pure Imagination Step into a place where creativity knows no bounds, every role is a chance to shine, and inclusion and diversity are celebrated.

C The Evolution Revolution by Kimberly Sim. Presented by Performance Ensemble. Image by Crispian Chan

Games at Pure Play! Image by Claire Glenn

onundrum Theatre is a boutique youth theatre company for young people to discover their passion for performance and to find their place in a community that values uniqueness. Located on Singapore’s East Coast, our mission is to cultivate the holistic development of children and young people through the magic of drama. We offer inclusive drama classes for children and middleschoolers, while also embarking on large-scale, ambitious theatre projects for young people and emerging artists. Founded in 2020 by New Zealand/Australian Theatre Director and Actor, Claire Glenn, Conundrum Theatre is more than just a theatre company - it’s a haven for children and young people to explore their imagination, discover their passions, and engage in life-changing projects. What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to embracing individuality and diversity.

POSITIVE CHANGE

Before Claire’s journey to Singapore, she served as the Artistic Director of the South Australian Youth Arts Company (Adelaide), Creative Producer for Carclew (Adelaide), and the Director of the Fairfax Youth Initiative (Regional Victoria). With two decades of experience in the theatre industry spanning New Zealand, Australia, the UK, and Singapore, Claire has dedicated the past 15 years to working with youths. Her portfolio includes large-scale projects for international festivals, and collaborations 54

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them the freedom to be creative, express their views, learn about the world and themselves, forge lasting friendships, and create original pieces of theatre. Conundrum’s workshops cover performance and theatremaking methodologies, including stagecraft, character development, script analysis, devising, storytelling, audition preparation, writing, physicality, puppetry, clowning, and exploration of global issues. We encourage play, experimentation, trust-building, risk-taking, and the creation of tangible outcomes in the form of original theatre productions.

FOCUSED ATTENTION

Chaos by Laura Lomas. Presented by Impact Collective. Image by Crispian Chan

At Conundrum, young people not only hone their acting skills but also find a place to belong with at-risk youth. Claire is an advocate for youth arts and is committed to creating positive change in the lives of young people. Conundrum Theatre envisions going beyond traditional theatrical education. Classes and projects are meticulously designed to foster artistic skills, cultivate a sense of belonging, and boost self-confidence in every participant. We connect young people with professional theatre practices and artists both locally and internationally, all within a supportive and rigorous youth drama framework. We believe that children learn best by doing. Our workshops and theatre projects empower participants to develop performance and theatre-making skills while giving

CLASSES:

Musical Play: 5pm - 6:30pm, Fridays Pure Play: 10am - 11:30am, Saturdays Play Up: 12pm - 1:30pm, Saturdays Impact: 2pm - 4pm, Saturdays Performance Ensemble: 5pm - 7:30pm, Wednesdays

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At Conundrum, young people not only hone their acting skills but also find a place to belong, develop selfconfidence, build resilience, acquire social awareness, learn to collaborate and work as an ensemble, nurture empathy and respect for others, develop trust, and have loads of fun! Our classes begin with dynamic introductions to theatre through Pure Play and Musical Play (5 - 8 year-olds) before progressing to Play Up (9 - 11 year-olds). Impact Collective (12 - 15 year-olds) is where middle-schoolers delve deeper into performance processes, styles, and methods, culminating in one main stage play each year. The Performance Ensemble (14 -18 year-olds) is Conundrum’s flagship performing group. In this group, young artists create the work they’re passionate about. Throughout the year, the ensemble explore improvisation, scene work, devising, character development, writing, movement, vocal work, monologues, and more, leading to the presentation of ambitious theatre productions. The Performance Ensemble has previously presented captivating works such as “The Aftertime” by Ben Brooker, “I Still Have No Friends” by Alby T. Grace, and “The Evolution Revolution” by Kimberly Sim. We’ve also toured in Australia and another tour is scheduled for Scotland this August. Many of our alumni have gone on to work as professional actors in film and TV, attend drama schools, create their own shows, or become drama teachers. Conundrum Theatre keeps its community small to ensure that every student receives focused attention. At Conundrum, we’re like a family, providing a strong foundation to not only create professionallevel theatre productions, but also to support, nurture, and encourage every student in a safe and supportive environment. Join us on this extraordinary journey!

Conundrum Theatre

The Yards 406 Joo Chiat Place, #03-23, 428084

www.whataconundrum.com hello@whataconundrum.com @conundrum.theatre conundrum.theatre

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xtra-curricular activities help students to learn about themselves and develop knowledge in different contexts. Whether they join a camp or a club, gaining additional skills out of the classroom can provide endless personal benefits to aid them through life.

Who: Camp Asia What they do: We focus on providing exciting, memorable holiday camps for your child, and convenience and peace of mind for you. As well as being the best fun that kids can have during their time off school, our camps and weekly programmes also support them in thriving, developing new interests, and learning new skills. Professionally managed by experienced, trained teachers, teaching assistants and subject specialists, all activities at Camp Asia are age-appropriate. Taking place at Cognita group schools, they come with an inherently safe environment and a range of superb facilities. What kids learn: With the widest selection of holiday camps available including sports, creative, tech-savvy camps and weekly timetables for multiactivity camps - Camp Asia is the perfect place for children to try something new. Each camp is designed to cater to the individual's needs, and we offer a mixture of outdoor and indoor activities, such as academic camps to aid learning. There are also excursions where kids visit urban agriculture farms, and more. campasia.asia

School’s OUT (Fun’s In!)

Kids can continue learning once the school day is over with these cool camps and activities for all.

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Who: TFL Training Consultants Pte Ltd What THEY do: Tennis coaching, swim coaching, and holiday camps. What kids learn: TFL specialises in conducting a wide range of tennis and swimming programmes across all ages and levels in both private and group settings as well as holiday camps. Our Mini Tennis programmes are designed to focus on core skills and movements, with a simple instruction to the game. Meanwhile, Learn to Swim programmes are curated to develop water confidence, learn new skills, improve stamina, and most importantly to have fun. We aim to instil a love for sports at a young age by making learning effective yet enjoyable. tfl-training.com

Our Mini Tennis programmes are designed to focus on core skills and movements TFL

Who: Conundrum Theatre What THEY do: We provide unique, nurturing, and inclusive drama classes, workshops, and life changing projects for children and young people aged between 5 - 25 years old. Based on Singapore’s East Coast, we also present new theatre productions with our teenage ensemble and tour those productions overseas. What kids learn: Workshops develop all aspects of performance and theatremaking craft including, but not limited to, stagecraft, character development, script analysis, devising, storytelling,

audition preparation, writing, physicality and exploring world issues. We play, experiment, build trust, take risks, and create tangible outcomes in the form of original theatre productions. Young people learn how to become better actors, while finding their place to belong, develop self-confidence, build resilience, acquire social awareness, learn how to collaborate and work as an ensemble, cultivate empathy and respect for others, increase trust, and have lots of fun while doing so. whataconundrum.com January/February 2024

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Who: Tanglin Arts Studio What THEY do: Dance classes for children between 18 months - 18 years. What kids learn: Our dance classes aren’t just about learning dance moves, they’re about building a foundation of essential life skills. From physical coordination and flexibility to strength and rhythm, students gain so much more than just dance techniques: creativity, self-expression, self-confidence, teamwork, and forming lasting friendships are also huge benefits. As they sharpen their musicality and develop their auditory skills, they become more in tune with the world of music and dance, learn how to express their feelings and emotions through movement, and foster a deeper understanding of themselves and others. tanglinartsstudio.com

Children foster a deeper understanding of themselves and others Tanglin Arts Studio

WHO: Pineapple MMA What THEY do: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ) & Muay Thai with World Champions. What kids learn: Kids’ BJJ and Muay Thai can empower your child with resilience, discipline, and physical fitness through martial arts training. Our world champion instructor team make every class engaging and fun, ensuring that children enjoy the session while learning valuable life skills. Martial arts teaches them how to solve problems creatively, overcome challenges, and develop emotional intelligence. pineapplemma.com 58

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

New school, fresh approach

Welcome to an IGCSE and IB Diploma experience in Singapore like no other.

t Westbourne College (Singapore) our mission is clear - to fully prepare students for dynamic leadership roles on the global stage - and our results speak for themself. Our IGCSE course is uniquely tailored to support future excellence in the IB Diploma Programme. Delivered in a small, caring environment, students use experimentation, critical thinking, creativity and imagination to build resilience and practical skills, alongside a strong foundation of academic knowledge that they can apply to real-world situations. This impressive grounding provides students with a head-start in a range of competitive careers, and ensures that every pupil graduates Westbourne fully “Future Ready”.

One course, two pathways

The Westbourne College IGCSE Programme offers one course and two pathways for 14 - 16 year olds: EXAM PATHWAY: Our traditional exam pathway is delivered in either one or two years, depending on age/ability. The IGCSE caters for fluent English speakers culminating in Cambridge IGCSE exams in May/June. EAL PATHWAY: A parallel foundational pathway with intensive English Language support is available for students who require EAL support prior to the IB Diploma. This pathway can also be joined mid-year and is developed specifically for second language English speakers. We provide a student-centered environment focused on innovation and discovery. Characterised by small classes and tutorial-style teaching, our year-round intake for our IGCSE programme fully prepares students for future success. A breadth of subject choices and extension activities are offered, complementing those studied during the IB Diploma Programme, with EAL support available if required. We are immensely proud of our British heritage, and our wider global mission is to provide Westbourne students with the best possible preparation for the pursuit of international business, entrepreneurship and STEM pathways. Our IGCSE students benefit from many of the programmes and initiatives which are available to IB Diploma students. There are some points to be aware of, specifically regarding the IGCSE course, designed for students typically aged 14 - 16 years:

Westbourne prepares leaders of the future with the right skills, mindset, and knowledge IGCSE SINGAPOREAN STUDENTS: The IGCSE course is a secondary school equivalent course, and our team will support you with applying to the Ministry of Education. The MOE requirement does not apply to the IB Diploma Programme, neither is it required for eligible international students. INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS: This course is open to all students with a dependent pass, or resident permit.

Sixth form

Co-educational and exclusively IB, Westbourne’s Sixth Form is unique in its small-class, high-outcome, STEM and businesscentric focus. Westbourne prepares leaders of the future to thrive in a constantly evolving global environment. The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) is an academically challenging and balanced programme of education with final examinations that prepare students, aged 16 - 19, for success at university and life beyond. It has been designed to address the intellectual, social, emotional and physical wellbeing of students, and the programme has gained recognition and respect from the world’s leading universities. The Diploma Programme prepares students for effective participation in a rapidly evolving and increasingly global society. Built upon the foundations of Westbourne’s top-ranking and award-winning schools in both the UK and Australia, Westbourne College (Singapore) offers the IBDP in Singapore.

491 River Valley Rd, #16/03, Singapore 248371 +65 6235 1538

westbournecollege.com.sg

apply@westbournecollege.com.sg

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

Why This Dad’s Kickin’ It! The growth in MMA’s popularity has fuelled an interest in martial arts classes for all ages. This Australian ex-pro athlete shares his inspiration for starting a martial arts gym in Singapore.

igel Smith does not fit the conventional image of a martial arts gym owner. He was a competitive basketballer for a big part of his youth, representing Australia as a youth athlete, and in his home city of Sydney he was a professional player for three years. Eventually, Nigel traded in his jersey for suits as a legal counsel in the finance industry, leading him to long stints in New York and Singapore. Though the arenas are vastly different, there are uncanny similarities between the fast-paced, high-stakes world of competitive sports and the corporate boardroom. In the realm of business, he often finds himself drawing from the mindset cultivated during his years as an athlete - teamwork, the ability to identify opportunities in adversity, and making critical decisions under pressure. Now that he’s a father to a 10-year-old girl, these are the values that he hopes to impart to her. He was learning martial arts for a few years when the chance to open his

own gym in Singapore came up during the pandemic. Nigel seized it as an opportunity to create a space where not only his daughter but others could learn essential life lessons. Pineapple MMA opened in October 2022.

Confidence & resilience

Why martial arts? While every sport offers benefits for youth development, martial arts, such as Muay Thai and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (BJJ), serve as a unique path to instil confidence and resilience in children. Beyond physical skills, these disciplines foster cultural values like respect, humility, perseverance, and community participation. They’re also among the fastest-growing sports on the planet. Nigel’s daughter, Elsie, started learning Muay Thai and BJJ at the age of five. While teaching her selfdefence skills is part of his objective, Nigel believes that the confidence derived from martial arts equips a child to

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About Pineapple MMA

tackle challenges like bullying, peer pressure, and stressinduced misjudgements. Pineapple MMA is the premium training Confidence empowers destination in Singapore to learn authentic them to stand up for martial arts from some of the best instructors themselves and find in the world. Situated in downtown Singapore, the solutions before gym offers Muay Thai, Boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, No situations escalate. Gi Grappling and a kids’ martial arts programme in a In the digital age, clean and safe training environment. nurturing a child’s selfOur instructor team is behind the success of assurance and identity top martial arts athletes in world-renowned becomes increasingly organisations including UFC, K1, vital. Elsie’s experience Glory and ONE Championship. with martial arts improved Find out more at her athleticism and www.pineapplemma.com significantly boosted her selfconfidence and self-awareness. While some parents might worry that martial arts may lead to aggression or bullying tendencies, Nigel believes nothing could be further from the truth. Learning martial arts encourages responsibility and empathy. Children learn about community and are more inclined to stand up against potential mistreatment due to an enhanced understanding of their capabilities. Pineapple MMA meticulously structures kids’ classes, emphasising technique, physical coordination, and discipline, all within a safe and nurturing space. Fun warm-up exercises with imaginative names such as “bear crawls” and “spider walks”, and the focus on correct techniques, rather than brute strength, define the classes. BJJ classes include controlled sparring sessions, allowing children to practice self-defence in realistic scenarios. This combination of striking and grappling not only hones physical abilities but also fosters friendships and a supportive, positive environment.

Lifelong skills

The values of respect, confidence and resilience imbibed through martial arts lay the foundation for a child’s future, enabling them to confront life’s obstacles with strength and grace. Martial arts, with its core principles of discipline, technique, and community, provides an ideal platform for shaping the next generation of empowered and resilient individuals. For Nigel, Pineapple MMA represents an opportunity to elevate the standard of martial arts in Singapore and the region. The level of teaching is unparalleled for any gym in Asia. Indeed, a central goal for Nigel is to have a world-class athlete come out of Pineapple MMA’s kids programme one day. Right now, watching his daughter and the other kids thrive and have fun while learning martial arts is a source of immense pride and joy.

Want to try it?

Pineapple MMA is offering all ANZA members an opportunity to experience the many benefits of martial arts. Kids 5 - 13 years old: Two free trial classes (U.P. $60) Adults: One free trial class (U.P. $35) Scan the QR code to book, and type “ANZA” in the message box to redeem the offer.

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P SYC H

The Sharenting Dilemma As social media continues to be a prevalent form of communication, how much info is too much when you share about your kids online?

hether or not you are close to your friend’s children, if you spend time on social media sites such as Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok (you’re cooler than us!), chances are you know a fair bit about them. You know what their little ones looked like on the first day of the school term, that they got a new bike for their birthday, and that they don’t like Brussels sprouts. While parents have always shared stories and photos about their beloved offspring, social media has caused a huge

rise in “sharenting”. This combination of the words “sharing” and “parenting” was first coined in 2012 in the Wall Street Journal and refers to the practice of parents, often on social media, sharing information, photos, and other content about their children. As we continue to live our lives online, the amount of details we’re receiving on issues that in previous decades remained private, are now a public matter. “Sharenting can include anything from baby pictures and milestone updates

to more personal anecdotes,” explains Emmanuelle Mollet O’Grady, Principal Clinical Psychologist (Child & Adolescent) at International Medical Clinic (imchealthcare.com). “While sharenting may not be a new phenomenon in the sense that parents have always divulged information about their children with others, the scale and ease of sharing has expanded significantly. Parents on social media can now instantly reach a wide audience, which has positive and negative consequences on everyone involved.”

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As such, the concept of parental sharenting has sparked divisive discussions about responsible sharing, digital privacy, and the potential online sharing has on a child’s future. While a very personal and tricky subject, Emmanuelle can see a case for both sides. “Many parents engage in sharenting for reasons that can benefit both them and their children, as well as their friends and family. Regular parent-themed posting helps you to stay connected with loved ones, exchange parenting tips, and document a child’s growth and development,” she says. Indeed, parents are often super-proud of their child’s toilet training development, ability to remove all their clothing in supermarket aisles, and the remarkable way that they can recite all the words of Frozen’s Let It Go. Sharing tidbits also creates a sense of community - there’s a lot to be said for relatable content pertaining to the challenges and joys of parenthood that can build a bond and foster feelings of support with others. Let’s face it, there’s solace in discovering you’re not the only one who has to deal with a five-year-old throwing a Sisyphean-sized tantrum in the middle of Tanglin Mall.

Lifelong digital footprint

But is sharenting just another form of Too Much Information (TMI)? Concerns relating to privacy, consent, and potential long-term consequences for the children cannot be ignored. Some parents may unknowingly impart sensitive or personally identifying information about their children, which could be misused. Warns Emmanuelle, “Sharing personal details, including a child’s full name, birthdate, school, and location, can make them more vulnerable to identity theft, cyberbullying, and online predators.” Sharenting can infringe on a child’s privacy and consent. Children may not have a say in what their parents say about them, and this can lead to a violation of their personal boundaries as they grow older and become more aware of their digital presence. What’s also key to consider is the impact that the social postings now may have on the child in the future: no teen wants their mates referring to the time when aged seven, they won the ‘Best Harry Styles Lookalike Competition’. Giving regular insights into a child’s world gives them an online reputation

before they have a chance to develop it themselves. “Inaccurate or unflattering content and images can affect a child’s perception in the online world,” says Emmanuelle. “Constant posting creates a lifelong digital footprint which can be challenging to remove or control. While extreme, it may impact a child’s reputation, education, or employment prospects in the future.” To mitigate these dangers, Emmanuelle says that it’s important for parents to engage in responsible sharenting which includes being mindful of privacy and consent issues, as well as potential longterm consequences for their children. “Striking a balance between sharing and respecting a child’s boundaries is key to making sharenting a positive experience,” she says. Of course, the lines around respectful boundaries can be a little murky when children are very young. Only when they are older can you consult them about online behaviour. “As your child matures, respect their wishes regarding what you post about them. It’s essential to seek their consent before uploading images or personal stories that involve them. Make sure they feel empowered to speak up

about their online presence,” Emmanuelle says. Likewise, it’s imperative that you teach your kids social media etiquette including responsible posting and how to respect the privacy and consent of others. Discuss the potential risks and benefits of spreading personal information online and encourage your child to think critically about what they see and share themselves. Ask them to pause before they post and to be aware of the potential impact of their online actions. PRESCHOOL AGE (3-5 YEARS) Start introducing the concept of online safety and privacy. Use age-appropriate language to explain that some things are private, like their name, address, and family details. Explain that they should not share this information online or with strangers. ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AGE (6-10 YEARS) As your child becomes more tech-savvy and begins using the internet or social media (if age-appropriate), continue discussing the importance of privacy and responsible online behaviour. Tell

Parents on social media can instantly reach a wide audience, providing both positive and negative consequences

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them that you may share some photos and stories about them, but that you will always respect their feelings about what you post. Encourage them to ask questions if they’re curious about your online activities. PRE-TEEN AND TEEN YEARS (11+ YEARS) Engage in more in-depth conversations about digital privacy and consent. Discuss the potential long-term consequences of what you share about them. Urge them to express their preferences and concerns about their online presence, including what they’re comfortable with you sharing and what they’d like you to avoid. While respecting their autonomy, Emmanuelle recommends continuing to monitor your child’s online activities, friends, and connections to ensure their safety. The importance of privacy settings and maintaining a positive online reputation can never be underrated.

Communication is key

While you can be in control of the parenting content you put out to the world, you cannot manage the nature of your friends or family’s output. If someone else is revealing details about your child, it’s essential to address this issue asap. “Reach out and express your concerns privately,” suggests Emmanuelle. “Approach the conversation with empathy and a desire to maintain a positive relationship and express your feelings using “I” statements to convey your thoughts about the situation. For example, say, ‘I feel uncomfortable with the photos you’ve been sharing of my child without my consent’.” Asking for your friend or relative’s side of the story will give them the opportunity to explain their actions - in many cases they may not be aware of your feelings or may have had different intentions with their post. Be open to hearing their side of the story and willing to engage in a constructive dialogue, after all, they may have reasons for their actions that you haven’t considered. If this is the case, clearly communicate your boundaries and expectations - let them know what is acceptable and what is not. Work together to find a resolution that respects your concerns and maintains your friendship. If you can’t reach a compromise, ask them to remove the photos or adjust their 64

SHARENTING: A DON’T GO THERE GUIDE Personally identifiable information Avoid sharing information like your child’s full name, birthdate, home address, school name, and other details that could be used to identify or locate them Nude or bathing photos Don’t share photos of your child in a state of undress or while bathing. These could be inappropriate or exploitative Embarrassing or invasive stories Refrain from sharing stories that may embarrass or invade your child’s privacy as they

grow older. What might be cute at a young age could be mortifying for them in their teenage years Medical or health info Keep medical conditions, medications, or healthrelated information about your child private. Such information could be used against them in the future Sensitive family conflicts Keep family matters, issues, or confidential matters out of the public eye. Sharing personal family conflicts online can be damaging and distressing to children

privacy settings to limit the audience who can see them. Now is also the time to reflect on your own comfort level regarding sharing photos on social media, and to make sure that your practices align with your expectations for others. If you’re posting images of your child’s play date with Nico, you can’t expect Nico’s parents to keep schtum about it.

School details Do not disclose your child’s school name, class schedule, or other information that could compromise their safety Geotagging Avoid sharing photos or posts that reveal your child’s exact location in real-time. Geotagging can potentially compromise their safety Negative opinions While it may feel amusing and relatable at the time, avoid criticising, ridiculing, or expressing negative opinions or comments about one of your child’s accomplishments

As always, communication is key to striking a balance. However, if your friend doesn’t appear to respect your boundaries or continues to share photos against your wishes, you may need to consider taking further steps to protect your child’s privacy, such as adjusting your own social media privacy settings or seeking legal advice if necessary.

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

Living Green at Dulwich College (Singapore)

The Greenhouse is a new building empowering the next generation of changemakers.

n November 2023, Dulwich College (Singapore) unveiled The Greenhouse, a net-zero energy, seven-storey educational building that provides a safe and inspiring space for students to thrive. The Greenhouse boasts a 400seat multi-purpose auditorium, a STEAM workshop, a professional teaching kitchen, film and media suites, three blackbox theatres, and a vast IB library and workspace for pre-university students. Notably, the Greenhouse is also the first international school building in Singapore to be certified Green Mark Platinum Zero Energy by the Building and Construction Authority of Singapore. Through the adoption of industry-leading innovations and sustainability features, The Greenhouse generates energy from renewable sources that equals or exceeds the total energy consumed annually. Environmental sustainability and global citizenship are deeply embedded within Dulwich College (Singapore) community values and guiding statements. We encourage our students, parents, and staff to consider the needs of the planet, and take action to improve the environment for all.

Learning lab

The Greenhouse is a learning lab in itself: showcasing engineering

Dulwich College (Singapore),

+65 6890 1003,

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“The Greenhouse is a pioneering education and experimental hub for our students. It is a centre to learn, research, experiment, and ultimately grow and empower the next generation of innovators, leaders, entrepreneurs and changemakers of tomorrow.” - NICK MAGNUS, HEAD OF COLLEGE

systems and sustainability features that challenge students to learn about their environment. It’s designed to remind students, staff, and visitors to think about energy consumption and their personal impact on the world around us. Kinetic tiles installed at the entrance allow people to watch how much energy they generate just by movement. Living green pillars line the IB libraries; the STEAM workshop provides a space for handson experimentation and collaboration, allowing students to build prototypes from recycled items while being seated on furniture crafted from upcycled materials.

In the future, a hydroponics system installed in the Working Kitchen will be used to grow several different plants and herbs for students to harvest and experiment with making plant-based meals. Data from the Greenhouse will also be integrated within the Senior School curriculum. Students and teachers will have access to the building management data, which can be weaved into the curriculum for subjects such as maths, science, design technology, and business studies, reminding us that working together to create a sustainable environment and solve global challenges is a joint responsibility. We hope that The Greenhouse prepares our students for future development and opportunities in the sustainability field, no matter what their area of interest. At Dulwich College (Singapore), we are not only teaching our students about global issues, but strive to make them aware of the local and global efforts being made to solve them. By engaging our students with global issues and solutions early, we provide them with the necessary skills to thrive in an ever-changing world and empower them to solve problems for a better future. We hope to inspire our students and the global community to Live Worldwise, and Live Sustainably.

71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, Singapore, 658966

admissions.singapore@dulwich.org,

www.singapore.dulwich.org

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

Children benefit from outdoor play here’s the why, when, and where. By Cara D’Avanzo, communications writer, Singapore American School.

ant a cheap and easy way to

labouring over lessons and homework?

Dr. John Medina.

improve your kids’ chances

Even though it may seem counterintuitive

Exercise boosts

of health and success? Make

at first, longer time on a task doesn’t make

brain power. Play is also linked to

sure they spend time playing outdoors!

for better results. On the contrary, it only

improvements in academic skills,

For parents who stick to Singapore’s

leads to faster and greater burnout.

classroom behaviour, healthy emotional

air-conditioned indoor spaces, the idea

If you give children time for unstructured,

attitudes and better adjustment to school

of venturing outside with young children

outdoor play, you hit the reset button - an

life. The case for children doing something

can be intimidating. But there are plenty

amazing tool to re-stimulate those brain

physical every day is growing. Jenny

of reasons to weave outdoor play into your

cells to focus. This downtime helps to

Seham of the National Dance Institute in

children’s free time. The fresh air, change

break days into shorter sessions, allowing

New York City says she has observed for

of scene, and space to explore will do them

kids to take the pressure off and thrive

years the measurable academic and social

good - and you’ll probably enjoy it too!

in an environment where the mind-body

results of school children who study dance.

connection can flourish.

She notes the positive changes in self-

Kids are built to move How many kids can sit for hours at a desk

“Physical activity is cognitive candy,” says developmental molecular biologist

discipline, grades, and sense of purpose in life that her students demonstrate.

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When should we play?

Unstructured playtime improves kids’ cooperation, focus, and goal-setting;

If your family doesn’t usually spend time

allows them to take risks and develop

outdoors, start small. Build a little time into

resilience; and encourages creativity and

each day to get out - visit a nearby park or

self-confidence

playground, walk to the corner store, take a

Children engage all their senses when

quick scooter or bike ride, or stroll through

exploring nature, as there’s always

the neighbourhood. The key is to make the

something new to see, hear, touch, smell,

outdoor routine easy and rewarding. Little

and even taste

by little you’ll find what works for you and

Encouraging a love of nature when kids are young helps them to develop lifelong

your family.

healthy hobbies like hiking, gardening,

Where should we play?

birdwatching, mountain biking, and

Singapore has all sorts of kid-friendly

photography

outdoor options. If you’re at a playground or park, give the kids space while

Just a few minutes of daily “green exercise” has proven biological benefits,

observing them discreetly. If activities like

including muscle and heart health,

hiking need some spice, create a simple

production of vitamin D (benefiting

scavenger hunt or a goal of finding a

immune systems, bones, and sleep),

certain number of animals or plants. And

preventing myopia and obesity, and

consider bringing the outdoors inside with

reducing levels of the “stress hormone”

a “nature nook” for outdoor collectibles

cortisol

or potted plants to nurture.

Nature enhances kids’ mental and spiritual wellbeing through inspiring curiosity and wonder, promoting calmness and happiness, and reducing hyperactivity

Why play outdoors? Outdoor settings inspire kids to move, explore, and imagine, just as they have for centuries. And research confirms that time spent outside is great for children’s health and wellbeing. The American Medical Association concluded that “Children will be smarter, better able to get along with others, healthier and happier, when they have regular opportunities for free and unstructured play in the outdoors.” Why? Running, climbing, observing, and expressing themselves outdoors helps kids develop gross and fine motor skills

Singapore American School 40 Woodlands St 41, Singapore, 738547 Email: sasinfo@sas.edu.sg Phone: +65 6363 3403

facebook.com/singaporeamericanschool @samericanschool @SAmericanSchool linkedin.com/school/singapore-american-school

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

Be babyready The “pre-mester” is the prime time to prepare your body for pregnancy and potential changes ahead. Dr Natalie Hutchins shares some tips on keeping your health at its optimum.

hen it comes to pregnancy time frames, it’s common for people to refer to the first three months after falling pregnant as “the fourth trimester”. With this in mind, I like to refer to the months prior to conception as the “pre-mester”. It’s a window which represents a golden opportunity not only to get your body ready for a baby, but to also lay down some foundations to give your future child a healthy start in life.

What should I do if I’m planning a pregnancy?

In Singapore, most pregnancies are planned, so we make full use of this by inviting women to visit us for a prepregnancy counselling assessment before they start trying to conceive. Many health conditions can be affected by pregnancy, and conversely, there are conditions (and the medication used to treat them) that may also affect a growing baby. It’s crucial for those with conditions such as depression, anxiety, asthma, thyroid disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, epilepsy, and more, to consider a relaxed chat and check-in to assess any issues.

What if I don’t have a medical condition?

Even if you feel well, a check-in prior to pregnancy is still an important step.

Really common issues such as being deficient in essential vitamins, having an undetected thyroid problem, and lacking immunity can all be detected and treated before conception. It’s also a good time to check your BMI: being overweight or underweight can increase pregnancy risks. Addressing this beforehand is key.

Are there lifestyle factors I should be aware of?

Your diet in the “pre-mester” period can affect your fertility, wellbeing, and the health of the baby. This isn’t the time for any eating fads that exclude whole food groups. There’s evidence that doing a ketogenic or low carbohydrate diet in pregnancy results in smaller babies. Diets very high in carbohydrates and low in protein can also affect foetal growth and put you at risk of developing gestational diabetes. We also know that staying active in pregnancy (150 mins/week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity) results in better outcomes for you and your child, including a higher

FOR MORE INFORMATION

Visit our website or make an appointment to learn how we can help you to take control of your own health and wellbeing. osler-health.com

Even if you feel well, a check-in prior to pregnancy is still important chance of a smoother and uncomplicated delivery and recovery.

What’s the deal with alcohol?

Medical experts recommend abstaining from alcohol completely during pregnancy. However, conceiving can take time (up to a year for many) and may be associated with increased anxiety. I think the antidote to this is trying to maintain as ‘normal’ a life as possible with a healthy slant, so you’re not completely overtaken trying to conceive. Women can still drink alcohol during this time, just remember to be sensible!

Dr Natalie Hutchins is a British GP doctor with a background in obstetrics and gynecology. She is passionate about women’s health. Dr Hutchins is based in Osler’s Star Vista clinic. Tel: 6339 2727.

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

A dose of Lifestyle Medicine Quick fixes don’t work when it comes to health. Adopting a more holistic approach to wellbeing is the prescription for the future.

t’s that time when many of us set New Year’s resolutions or intentions for what’s ahead. A period to reflect on what we’ve accomplished in the past 12 months, and what we want to achieve in the future. For many, improving health and managing weight will be on our list, but before embarking on a weight loss programme or specific diet, consider the programme components. Too many weight loss programmes promise a quick fix and unrealistic goals such as “Lose 10kg in one month”. They tend to rely on some form of low calorie intake, which in the short term will achieve weight loss, but in the long term is not sustainable nor healthy. These medically unsupervised restrictive and low-calorie diets have profound effects on our metabolic regulation and hormones, which are

all finely tuned. When this balance is disrupted, our body will think we’re in starvation mode and switch on mechanisms that slow our metabolic rate. We may notice that continued weight loss begins to decrease and stagnate after a period of rapid weight loss. Hormonal disruptions can also negatively affect our metabolism, appetite, and in some women it may impact our menstrual cycle. Low-calorie diets can also result in nutrient deficiences and loss of lean muscle mass, impacting metabolism, body composition and overall health. We start to feel fatigued and do not have the energy to participate in physical activity. Lastly, these diets can cause psychological stress such as feeling deprived and developing an unhealthy preoccupation with food. The unrealistic

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adherence to a low-calorie diet and frustration of stagnant weight loss can leave participants feeling demotivated and frustrated, wondering if their lack of willpower is to blame when, in fact, many physiological factors are at play. The belief that the next diet will achieve the desired effect leads to yet another diet, and so the vicious cycle of yo-yo dieting continues.

Pillars of good health

Weight management is complex, nuanced, and addresses many contributing factors. Lifestyle Medicine takes a holistic approach to weight management, where realistic goals are set with the understanding that this journey is a marathon and not a sprint; that prioritising and addressing the pillars of good health lays the foundation to overall wellbeing and reduces our risk of chronic disease. Weight loss becomes less of a primary focus but rather a positive outcome of adopting healthy habits as a whole. Presently, we’re overnourished and surrounded by a calorie-dense and nutrient-low food environment. Many of our jobs are sedentary and stressful, and with technological advancement, we are constantly “connected” to work emails or social media. Having time to switch off, slow down and reflect is becoming increasingly difficult. Many of us are sleep-deprived and pressured to achieve more than we have hours in the day. We turn to substances (such as smoking and alcohol) to alleviate stress, only to find these are short-term fixes with harmful effects in the long run. And with our limited time, purposeful and positive moments spent with friends and family begins to take a back seat. We cannot ignore that these lifestyle behaviours contribute to our health, wellbeing, and weight. This is where the principles of Lifestyle Medicine can support and motivate patients in realistic and long-term positive changes.

significant part in weight management. A calorie deficit may be needed to achieve weight loss, but it’s done in a manner that does not disrupt the body’s metabolic regulation and hormones, allowing for a healthy weight loss that maintains energy levels. PHYSICAL ACTIVITY – Choosing exercises you enjoy and are accessible, which include a combination of cardiovascular exercise and resistance training, is key. Staying active throughout the day will help maintain your NEAT (Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis), continuing to utilise the body’s energy stores when you’re not engaged in exercise. SLEEP – Disrupted or reduced sleep has a negative impact on our hunger and hormones. It can lead to craving unhealthy food and feeling too exhausted to exercise, all of which contribute to weight gain. HARMFUL SUBSTANCES – Limiting alcohol can be helpful not just for health

reasons, but also in reducing the hidden calories in alcohol. Substitute cocktails and mixers that are full of sugar for less calorific options. STRESS & MENTAL HEALTH – Stress drives our cortisol, which can affect insulin and increase our weight. Many of us turn to food and alcohol when we’re stressed or feeling down and anxious, making poor food choices. Managing stress and addressing our mental health is central to weight management. PURPOSEFUL CONNECTION – Getting support from family and friends and being part of a weight loss or healthy living group helps us to achieve goals. A little accountability can be all that’s needed to remain motivated and engaged. Ultimately, lifestyle changes should be at the core of weight management. Adopting the evidence-based approach of Lifestyle Medicine has sustainable benefits and goes beyond the desired weight loss. We’re here to help!

Written by Dr Sundus Hussain-Morgan (MBBS, MRCP, MRCGP, Board Certified in Lifestyle Medicine) IMC Jelita and IMC Camden www.imc-healthcare.com

NUTRITION – Switching to unprocessed whole foods that are nutrient-dense, satiating, and predominantly plant-based plays a

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

PREP for winter sports season If you’re a serious snow bunny, it’s wise to embark on winter sports with some planning in place (because no-one wants to return with a body part in plaster).

s Europe and Japan’s winter sports season fast approaches, it’s time to get yourself into shape for the unique

physical and mental challenges that skiing and snowboarding bring. There are many ways you can ensure your body and mind are at their best so you can enjoy your holiday in the snow with minimal risk of injury. Read on.

How can I get in shape? Ideally, start upping your fitness no less than six weeks before your trip. There are several key areas to work on to ensure peak performance on the slopes: Cardio for overall fitness and endurance Core strength for balance and coordination Quads, glutes and hamstring strength for control If you work on these areas, not only will you feel fitter, stronger, and enjoy your skiing and

alcohol during skiing as it can cause dehydration

professional snow sport instruction, learning ski

and affect your coordination.

lift safety, and getting properly educated about

snowboarding sessions more, but they’ll all work

high-risk areas on the slopes is essential to

Minimise harm

together to reduce your risk of injury. If you’ve hurt yourself and are returning to

Of course, occasionally we do injure ourselves

minimise potential harm. Fortunately, with improving equipment and in

sports, your physiotherapist can confirm that

on the slopes. Musculoskeletal (muscle,

particular ski boot bindings, the overall rates of

you’re ready to get back at it by carrying out

ligament, tendon, bone and joint) issues are the

injury have decreased over the last 20 years.

an objective assessment. They can also share

most common during winter sports. The injury

advice on specific things you can do to minimise

profile changes depending on your level of

accounting for almost 30% of all injuries.

further injury when returning to sport.

Knees are the most commonly injured joint,

experience, whether you’ve had lessons from a

Shoulder and wrist damage is also prevalent.

Other pre-sport prep prior to your winter

professional instructor, and your overall fitness.

Snowboarders experience more hip, trunk, and

holiday include warming up, skiing on piste and

Beginners are at the highest risk of injury

head accidents, while skiers commonly injure

to your ability, not skiing or snowboarding when

(no matter what age you are), therefore a snow

their knees and shoulders. This is due to the

you’re tired, and avoiding the consumption of

sports-specific pre-holiday fitness programme,

different equipment, position and twisting forces experienced when you fall.

Dr Gavin O’Neill is an Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in hip and knee conditions. He trained in the UK and Australia. If you’re having issues with hip or knee pain contact us at Altius Clinic, Sports and Orthopaedic Surgeons for an appointment. altiusclinic.sg Altius Clinic Sports and Orthopaedic Surgeons 290 Orchard Road, #09-11/12 Paragon, 238859 contact@altiusclinic.sg +65 8500 3961 +65 6970 1518

Knee ligaments are often harmed due to the twisting nature of many ski accidents, especially the Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) and the Medial Collateral Ligament (MCL). Meniscus damage can also be encountered in association with these ligament injuries.

What if I hurt myself? Fortunately, most injuries are minor and can be managed with a few days of rest, ice, and simple painkillers. If the injury is more severe, you struggle to bear weight or move the joint, then please seek medical support. Many ski resorts have clinics where you can have an initial assessment and get good advice for staying safe. If you’re having ongoing injury issues upon returning home, book an assessment with an experienced Orthopaedic Surgeon who can care for you and help you to recover fully.

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Adrian Mondry (Internal Medicine) MD, PhD (Dusseldorf) >30 years of experience in the field of internal medicine Hypertension specialist accredited by the German Hypertension League

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Dr Mondry hails from Germany, where he studied medicine, did his basic training and obtained specialist accreditation in Internal Medicine. He was previously a senior consultant in the department of medicine at the National University Hospital and Ng Teng Fong General Hospital (NTFGH). Dr Mondry’s interest lies in a holistic approach to Internal Medicine, with a special focus on cardiovascular and metabolic illness. As such, he strives to both prevent disease and manage care where this is not possible. The main focus of his outpatient work is in diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular disease risk at the specialist level. Dr Mondry welcomes you if you have a need to find the cause of and a treatment for new or chronic symptoms, or if you wish to seek advice on health promotion and prevention of illness.

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

FACE FORWARDS

Many of us tend to feel and look a little lacklustre at this time of the year. Here’s how facial rejuvenation can boost appearance.

s the prevalence of online meetings and video calls becomes the norm in professional communication, and social media platforms continue to surge, individuals are increasingly striving to present a fresh and vibrant image. A common lamentation is about appearing fatigued, with concerns ranging from a heavy forehead and tired eyes to premature lines and pronounced jowls. These concerns are shared by both men and women, typically surfacing in their late 30s or early 40s as signs of aging become noticeable. Dr. Marco, a renowned expert in the field of cosmetic surgery, has observed a substantial uptick in clients seeking facial rejuvenation to achieve a refreshed, and younger, look. Many clients seek these interventions to address the signs of onset aging. Today there are various facial rejuvenation techniques, such as the use of botulism toxin which smoothens facial and neck lines, offering a particularly effective solution for individuals with strong expression lines, heavy eyelids, or robust lower jaw muscles. The result is a rejuvenated and bright-eyed appearance. Fillers or autologous fat transplantation serve as effective methods for replenishing deflated areas and enhancing facial features like cheekbones, smile lines, and lips. Additionally, a range of machinery and laser skin resurfacing treatments target textural irregularities, blemishes, and pigmentation, while also contributing to firming and tightening the skin.

recovery period of five to seven days. The latest innovation in facelift surgery, dubbed the “Ponytail Facelift” or “Bunny Lift,” focuses on a more youthful cheek lift and taut jawline. With a smaller incision hidden in the hair-bearing area, the resulting scar is virtually invisible. Ideal for those displaying early signs of aging without excess skin in the lower face and neck, this procedure takes approximately three hours, with a minimal oneweek recovery period. Dr. Marco also suggests that fat grafting can be seamlessly incorporated during the same surgery. Dr. Marco emphasises the importance of customisation in facial rejuvenation, tailoring procedures to individual needs. Whether it’s lifting one cheek more vertically, adding more fat graft to specific areas, or concealing scars due to unique anatomical features, he underscores the necessity of selecting an experienced and qualified plastic surgeon for these personalised interventions.

LIST OF SERVICES Facial Rejuvenation

Breast Surgery

Face and Neck Lift / Upper Facelift Breast Augmentation with Implants or with Fat Eyelid Surgery

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Breast Reconstruction

Ear Otoplasty

Minimally Invasive Surgery

Minimally invasive surgery

Body Contouring Surgery

In the realm of facial rejuvenation, a growing trend is the resurgence of surgical procedures for instantaneous, enduring results with minimal downtime. Dr. Marco recommends Minimally Invasive Surgery (MIS), particularly the Endoscopy Brow Lift or Upper Facelift. This cosmetic surgery addresses the impacts of aging, correcting drooping brows and upper eyelids to refine brow lines and smoothen the forehead. Employing keyhole endoscopy ensures almost imperceptible scarring, with a mere two hour surgery time and a swift

Robotic Rectus Diastasis Repair / Abdominoplasty

Liposuction / Liposculpture

Endoscopic Breast Augmentation/ Breast Lifting

Rectus Diastasis Repair

Endoscopic Rectus Diastasis Repair /Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty Brazilian Butt Lift BBL Labiaplasty

Mummy Makeover Tummy Tuck / Abdominoplasty Repair of Rectus Diastasis

Male Surgery Face and Neck Lift

Breast Augmentation Breast Lifting / Reduction

Body Contouring / Abdominoplasty Body Liposculpture Gynaecomastia

Butt Lift Labiaplasty

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Singing Group We cover pop, rock, musicals, old favourites, classical, karaoke – you name it! Don’t be shy, all abilities welcome. Group host, Bernadette Nagy, is an opera singer and a passionate music educator.

Find out more at anza.org.sg/ groups/singing-group

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

JAMIE BURGMANN, Partner at Select Investors, reveals some New Year financial resolutions for the months ahead.

How can I get financially on track in 2024?

he new year is a time for new beginnings, and that includes your finances. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by debt, or unsure how to save for retirement, don’t worry. Here’s some financial advisor-approved New Year resolutions to help you stay firmly in control.

Get insurance Insurance can protect you from unexpected financial setbacks, such as a medical emergency or a job loss. Make sure you have adequate health insurance, life insurance, and disability insurance. If you’re not sure how much insurance you need, talk to a financial advisor. They can help you assess your needs and recommend the right insurance coverage for you. Review your estate Most people often delay this. So whilst motivation may be higher when you’re sticking to your New Year resolutions, you should try to action them. It’s much easier for you to collate information about your finances and where you’d like them passed onto if the unfortunate were to happen, rather than someone else trying to do this if you’re not around.

Think ahead. Once you’ve set out your objectives, create a realistic plan for how you’re going to achieve them. This may involve breaking down your goals into smaller steps. Automate, track progress & make adjustments. Set up automatic transfers to help pay for bills or investments. Keep track of your progress and if you find that you’re not on schedule to meet your financial aspirations, don’t be afraid to adjust. This may involve changing your budget, reducing your spending, or increasing your savings. Ask for help. If you’re struggling to stick to your financial New Year resolutions, don’t be afraid to seek advice and assistance from a financial advisor.

Create a budget (& stick to it) This is the most important financial resolution you can make. A budget will help you to track your income and expenses so you can see where your money is going. It will also help to prevent overspending (an easy thing to do in Singapore!). Pay off debt High-interest debt can be a major financial (and emotional) burden. If you have credit card debt or other highinterest loans, plan to pay them off as quickly as possible. One way to pay off debt is to consolidate your loans into a single loan with a lower interest rate. This The value of an investment with St. James’s Place can make it easier to manage your debt will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You and save money on interest. may get back less than you invested. Save for retirement Tips for sticking to plan: Retirement may seem far away, but it’s Set realistic goals. Don’t try to The levels and bases of taxation, and relief from taxation, can change at any time. The important to start saving early. The earlier do too much too soon. Start with value of any tax relief depends on individual you start, the more time your money has small, achievable aims and work your circumstances. to grow. You can open an investment way up to larger ones. account in Singapore which can not only be tax effective here, but also in other jurisdictions Contact Jamie on Jamie.burgmann@sjpp.asia or +65 9167 9634 to arrange a globally. consultation and discuss your planning needs for your financial future

in 2024 and beyond.

The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives. Members of the St. James’s Place Partnership in Singapore represent St. James’s Place (Singapore) Private Limited, which is part of the St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group, and it is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and is a member of the Investment Management Association of Singapore and Association of Financial Advisers (Singapore). Company Registration No. 200406398R. Capital Markets Services Licence No. CMS100851. Senior Partner Practice of St. James's Place (Singapore) Private Limited

St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group Ltd Registered Office: St. James’s Place House, 1 Tetbury Road, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 1FP, United Kingdom. Registered in England Number 02627518.

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LADIES NIGHT ANZA organises monthly girls only get-togethers with great deals on drinks and food at different hotspots around Singapore.

FEB

JAN

Wednesday 24 January 6.30-9.30pm Clubhouse SG 168 Robinson Rd, #01-07 Capital Tower, 068912

Wednesday 21 February 6.30-9.30pm LeVeL33 8 Marina Boulevard #33-01 Marina Bay Financial Centre Tower 1, 018981

SOMETIMES YOU JUST NEED A STRONG CUPPA AND A FRIENDLY WELCOME. Whether you’re new to Singapore, new to ANZA or have been here a while, Casual Coffee mornings are a fantastic way to meet new people and pick up tips for living in Singapore. ANZA Casual Coffee meets at various locations around the island.

MONDAY EVENING SESSIONS!

Play Mahjong with ANZA

ANZA Mahjong meet up on various days and locations around the island. It’s a great way to learn this brain boosting Chinese tile game. From beginners and beyond, all levels are welcome!

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13/12/23 2:18 PM

TUCKE R B OX

Celebrating Pongal Festival The Hindu Pongal harvest festival is celebrated annually, globally, mostly by people with South Indian roots. This year it falls from Monday 15 to Thursday 18 January.

AUSPICIOUS RICE

On the second day, prayers are offered to the sun god. The auspicious Pongal (‘spillover’) dish, made with freshly harvested

rice, milk and sugar, is prepared outdoors in the early morning. Cooked in a new earthenware pot decorated with turmeric, the rice will boil, or spill, over as a symbol of abundance. Watching the rice overflow is considered auspicious. The sweet Pongal rice is then shared with family and friends. Families have their own customs, topping the rice with cashew nuts, raisins, ginger or brown sugar. Beasts of burden are honoured on the third day for their hard work during harvesting. After being fed and washed with water containing plants and golden saffron, the cows and buffalo are decorated with flowers and fruit, with their horns brightly painted. The fourth day is for visiting family and friends.

FESTIVE FARE

Vegetarian food takes centre-stage, with some Indian restaurants offering traditional fare. Sambar (lentil and vegetable puree) is eaten with idli (ricecake). Muruku is a well-known pretzel-like crispy snack. Bite into vadai, a popular deep-fried cake made with ground lentils, green chillies and ginger. Spicy

tamarind rice accompanied by vegetable side dishes is customary. Payasam (milkbased, sweet, thick, porridge made with rice or vermicelli, nuts, sugar and fruit) is a favourite festive dessert. End with coffee or masala (blended spices) tea, lassi (yoghurt drink), or bhadum kheer (almond-based milk drink). To appreciate the joyful, colourful Pongal atmosphere, enjoy an evening walk along Campbell Lane, off Serangoon Road in Little India, browse through festive street stalls, perhaps buying spices, decorations or delicious snacks while admiring the illuminated street decorations. Or visit Sri Srinivasa Perumal Temple, 397 Serangoon Road, before sunrise on the first day of the festival, to watch Pongal rice being cooked. When the rice boils over, priests blow on conch shells (considered pure and a symbol of life) signalling thanks to nature for a bountiful harvest and a good beginning for the year ahead. May we all share abundantly in the year ahead, appreciating the simple joys of life, including traditional festive food and drinks showcasing culturally diverse customs.

Born in Adelaide, Raelene Tan is an etiquette consultant and a food and travel writer. She has authored five books and has been a regular guest on radio and television. January/February 2024

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Photograph of earthenware pots for cooking Pongal by Raelene Tan

he first day involves starting afresh, disposing of unwanted or old items as well as spring cleaning homes. Entrances to many homes will be decorated with sugarcane (symbolising abundance), turmeric (signifying goodness in the year ahead), and fresh mango leaves (representing purity). Intricate floral patterns - rangoli - on floors directly outside many home entrances are created by families using rice flour of various colours. They represent the intricacies of life joining together, forming a complete and beautiful picture. Rice flour is used as it is intended to feed birds and insects.

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ANZA NETBALL

Term 1 Registrations Now Open! 20 January to 25 May Saturday mornings at Tanglin Trust School • Led by Professional Coaches • All abilities welcome, starting from 5 years upwards • Fun, friendship and teamwork Please visit our website for more information: anza.org. sg/sports/netball/ or email info@anza.org.sg

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Pro-rated fees available now

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y t i n u m m the Co 18/12/23 2:23 PM

RAF DALMAU gives a salute to the art of butchery, flames, and the spirit of Hawaii thanks to a newly presented tasting menu at Butcher’s Block.

utcher’s Block harmoniously blends butchery and contemporary woodfire cooking, embodying a journey rooted in Chef Jordan Keao’s Hawaiian heritage. Each creation is infused with an array of flavours, aromas, and textures, only achieved through the use of pure wood-fire. The newly presented ‘Imua’ tasting menu (“Moving forward with strength and spirit” in Hawaiian) highlights these intricacies with exceptional signatures and seasonal dishes. For a midday treat, the three-course set lunch offers great choices, while the A La Carte options are ideal for communal sharing.

EAT

BUTCHER’S BLOCK

1 BEACH ROAD, 189673. butchersblock.com.sg Dry-aged Duck

Korean BBQ with Wagyu Tartare, Scallop with Parsnip Blini, Kumquat Kosho & Shiso, Roasted Beetroot Tartlet with Taleggio & Macadamia

traditional Hawaiian relish of roasted Kukui nut, Ogo seaweed, and a visually stunning herb dashi. To intensify the flavours, the dish incorporated house-aged garlic shoyu and ponzu, crafted from fish bones and dried over an open fire.

reminiscent of the widely enjoyed ‘aku’ or Skipjack tuna in Hawaii. The grilled mackerel is gently laid on sushi rice and accompanied by house-fermented Swiss chard achar and star fruit puree. To enhance the experience, a rich broth is served on the side, inviting sips between bites or as a comforting end to this elegant offering. Concluding our savoury courses was a buttery Saga beef accompanied by a mouthwatering squash puree elevated to new heights with the addition of bone marrow. The meal culminated in a sublime dessert featuring pumpkin pie, burnt marshmallow ice cream, hazelnut chocolate bonbon, Lilikoi Pate de fruit, and a charcoal macaroon. At this point, guests are encouraged to select from the Digestif Trolley, which is artfully presented tableside. Postprandial options include madeira, sherry, whiskey, Armagnac, rum, mezcal, calvados, and more, ensuring a smooth and satisfying conclusion to the dining experience. There is a lunch menu ($168++ for five courses) and dinner menu ($218++ for six courses) with tailored wine pairings ($118++ for five glasses and $138++ for six glasses respectively). In addition, the Sommelier Flight ($148++) is a wine experience that focuses on a single varietal each time, offering a horizontal tasting of three pours from different vineyards.

Open kitchen

Upon entering Butcher’s Block, guests are immediately greeted by The Larder and the open kitchen, which engages the senses with captivating sights, smells, and sounds. Floor-to-ceiling glass unveils premium cuts of meats and artisanal pickles create a visual feast. Adjacent to The Larder, the open kitchen showcases the preparation of meat, seafood, and herbs above a lively fire. The kitchen team’s choreography is on display as they skilfully manoeuvre custom-built grills and ovens. The brass-accented marble-top counter acts as both a visual centrepiece and a functional butcher’s block amid the whirl of prep and plating activities. Embarking on our gastronomic adventure, we were presented with a dazzling array of appetisers that included Scallops delicately perched atop a parsnip blini and adorned with Kumquat kosho. This was followed by a decadent Wagyu tartare crowned with caviar, concluding with a delightful Roasted Beetroot Tartlet complemented by Taleggio cheese and macadamia nuts. In a nod to Chef Jordan’s hometown of Hilo, a smoked Sashimi Poke graced our palate, featuring belly cuts carved from a whole Hamachi and Tuna. The cold-smoked delicacy was infused with inamona, a Dry-aged Duck, Black Garlic & Grilled Dumpling

Zero waste philosophy

Next was the Malaysian Dry-Aged Duck accompanied by black garlic and grilled dumpling, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to a zero-waste philosophy. This offering applies various culinary techniques to highlight the distinct taste and texture of each duck part. The duck breast, dry-aged for up to 21 days, is delicately cooked above an open fire, ensuring a crisp skin and delectable tenderness. Complementing this, another component features minced duck leg and kaffir lime leaf encased in a hand-made dumpling skin, seared and grilled for a smoky touch. It’s elegantly completed with a black garlic puree and a jus crafted from a 1990 Madeira. Following the duck, the mackerel course unfolded, accompanied by starfruit curd and Hokkaido Yumepirika sushi rice,

Mackerel, Starfruit Curd, Hokkaido Yumepirika Sushi Rice

VERDICT: The ‘Imua’ menu at Butcher’s Block is highly recommended. For those wanting flexibility, the A La Carte menu is an unparalleled experience, complemented by a captivating wine selection. While your wallet may feel lighter, the postmeal conversation will revolve around the remarkable food. A dining experience here is totally deserving of a special occasion.

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JOIN ANZA SINGAPORE NIPPERS Term 1 3 March to 2 June Registrations Now Open

ANZA Scouts are all about fun, adventure and learning Find out more and join here anza.org.sg/groups/scouts

ANZA Watersports

Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Kayaking & Sailing Whether you’re new to watersports or experienced, come along and join the various Stand Up Paddle Boarding, Kayaking and Sailing sessions we have on offer.

Find out more at anza.org.sg/groups/watersports

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13/12/23 2:19 PM

Step through the curtain-clad entrance and enter a world of innovative cocktails, cultural dining, arty notes, and high-energy at this new gem of a den in Chinatown. By JO UPCRAFT.

DRINK

PAEL.ET BAR

55 KEONG SAIK ROAD #01-02, 089158 paeletbar.sg

ith so many new and exciting food and beverage establishments opening in Singapore, it pays to keep your finger on the pulse. Missing a goodie can be easy and Pael.et, the latest addition to Chinatown’s Keong Saik Road, is not one to miss. Scallop Ceviche First, let’s get the tricky pronunciation sorted. “Pael.et, pronounced ‘pallet’, is the phonetic spelling of pallet, palate, and palette,” the team tell us. “We combine these at Pael.et by blending global elements of taste, art and design together, but the focus is always on good times.” With that out the way, Pael.et is a true gem of a den. The intrigue begins before you step inside the venue. We arrive in the 5pm daylight and heavy drapes at the doorway conceal what’s inside. You’re soon transported into a small but perfectly formed room, sultry in surroundings, hip but homely in style, and super-cool in Only and Skinny’s Lounge fame, have each character. come together here. The warm and sunny staff take us through the cocktail menu with a particular fervour. Abstract ingredients It’s immediately clear that Haywood Learning that Pael.et is owned and operated has curated a banger, creating drinks to by a raft of familiar names from Singapore’s harmonise flavours, highlight abstract F&B industry, it all starts to make sense. ingredients, and encapsulate unique Partner Joe Haywood, SJS Group, the tastes. Numbers like The Seoul Searcher Papi’s Tacos team, and a front-of-house ($24), offer a Korean twist on the classic team led by Russel Cardoza, of Employees margarita, featuring Codigo Blanco Tequila, The Pael.et team waiting to welcome you! gochujang agave, and “Orange” orange wine. Istumi Martini ($21), incorporates the essence of pasta water from the SJS Group’s Pasta Bar, Nikka Coffey Gin, Beefeater gin, kombu, and spirulina. Given my sweet tooth and penchant for creamy concoctions, my recommendation is Speech Impediments, featuring Evan Williams Bourbon, peach, white tea, lemon, egg white, and bitters.

Speech Impediments

Artist collaborations

Complementing the cocktails is a food menu crafted by Head Chef Ash, formerly of Burnt Ends. We tried the Classic Sourdough with black garlic, and the refreshing Scallop Ceviche, complete with dashi, mango, pink peppercorn and samphire. For our main course we had the Half Chicken, seasoned with agave, rocket, papaya and peanut. Other options include Rendang Beef with corn tortillas, and Bread Gnocci with lemon and asparagus, followed by desserts such as Rambutan and Beetroot Sorbet with salted white chocolate foam, and Peach Tart. “Growing up I was enamoured by the food and flavours of other cultures, so it makes sense to have a place where the exploration is complemented with feeling at home,” Haywood says. Aside from the F&B, Pael.et also comes with great music and art; every corner tells a story of the local community through handcrafted pieces and artists’ collaborations. Rush, a talented music artist, has devised some eclectic playlists alongside an Atlanta-based music producer to create the vibrant feel of the place. Our favourite part of all? The absolutely lovely vibe. The intimate size means that Pael.et fills up fast, with punters perched at the bar watching the drinks come to life, and groups huddled at tables, caught up with fast chat and fabulous flavours. Just remember to call it “pallet”. It’s essential to get this right when spreading the word about just how good it is. VERDICT: Pael.et is where artistry in food, drink, and music collide in a happy space where you feel like family. Everyone is welcome, and the later the night lingers, the more this spot lights up.

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T R AV E L

If you’ve overlooked Langkawi as a travel destination, you’ve been missing out. KERRY LOW steps into unique Malaysian heritage at a location steeped in history, culture, and class.

Clockwise from top left: Straits House, Negeri Sembilan House, Johor House, Penang House, Paloh Restaurant & Bar in Ipoh House, Estate House, Plantation House and Colonial House

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angkawi is always a good idea. Less than a two hour flight from Singapore, it’s a stress free destination and favourite of the long-weekend crew looking for a fly’n’ flop. But away from the alluring beaches, there’s a whole world of historical, biological and cultural heritage, and Temple Tree Resort Langkawi embraces it all.

Johor House boasts a rosy exterior that began its journey in Batu Pahat, Johor, around a century ago. The family’s legacy is palpable in the design, with a family portrait adorning Johor 2. This property accommodates up to five guests across two spacious suites, both boasting glorious verandas.

THE ACCOMMODATION

Built in the 1920s by Arab goldsmiths, Colonial House is a grand home that once stood proud in George Town, Penang. It blends East and West where Peranakan floor tiles and intricate European cornices tell a tale of cultural fusion. Ideal for multi-generational family stays thanks to varying room formats and living spaces.

The resort is like no other. Consisting of eight distinct heritage houses, the designers of Temple Tree sourced each home from across Peninsular Malaysia and relocated it to Langkawi. That’s right - they carefully took each building apart, transported it for miles, and rebuilt it as a time capsule with all of the original external features retained. Aged 80 to 120 years old, each house is beautifully restored and symbolises a unique facet of Malaysia’s cultural mosaic, showcasing styles from Malay, Chinese, Indian, Peranakan, and Euro-Asian traditions. The stilted structures, open verandas, high ceilings, wooden floors, ornate tiles, and wood carvings add a touch of nostalgia, captivating visitors and feeling like a tapestry of time. All of this makes the resort ideal for multi-generational families seeking ample space to connect whilst on holiday. For our group of seven adults, it was like stepping into a bygone era.

Straits House My housemate and I were delighted to discover Straits House, complete with a private swimming pool and large garden, was to be our sanctuary for the duration of our stay. Ideal for large families or groups of up to eight, Straits House boasts four bedrooms, each with ensuite bathroom. A spacious living room, private pool, and lush gardens create an inviting atmosphere. Outdoor dining is encouraged on the generous deck, and Temple Tree’s onsite chef stands ready to craft culinary delights.

Negeri Sembilan House Formerly a family home in Mantin, this raised single-story house is now a luxurious suite with two bedrooms and a sweeping front veranda. Great for families of four, it offers a glimpse into the architectural beauty of the Malaysian state of Negeri Sembilan.

Johor House Originally a Chinese farmhouse with Taiwanese design influence, charming

Colonial House

Penang House Reflecting 131 years of British influence, Penang House intertwines local, Chinese, Indian, and Islamic elements. Erected in the 1930s next to Gurney Drive in Penang, the original exterior colours and entrance still stand strong. Its two 70sqm suites connect with double doors yet maintain separate entrances and living spaces.

Charming Johor House began its journey in Batu Pahat, Johor, around a century ago Plantation House Originally a spacious Malay artisan’s dwelling from 1900, Plantation House evolved into a grand two-storey colonialstyle abode. Built on Penang Island’s plantation area, it was later acquired by a Chinese Hakka family in 1920, earning the moniker “Tua Chua” or big house. Today, it comprises six suites and common areas include lounge spaces and a semi-openair courtyard.

Estate House For solo travellers or couples seeking quiet downtime, the Estate House provides a cosy haven. This long single-story building, originally from Pasir Puteh, Ipoh, is reminiscent of plantation estate lodgings from the early to mid-20th century. Terracotta floors, white walls,

and thick wooden beams all add to the charisma. Some suites offer a private bathtub and a small garden made for afternoon tea.

Ipoh House The Grand Dame of the resort, Ipoh House is an absolute gem dating back to the early 1900s. Divided into two parts, the back section flaunts Aceh-style architecture from 1900, while the front exudes the colonial style of 1903. Today, Ipoh House is a chic retro restaurant bar and reception lounge. The bar, strategically positioned in the middle, offers a stunning 360-degree view of the entire resort. Temple Tree Resort’s commitment to preservation extends beyond the exterior of the homes, encompassing thoughtfully curated interiors that retain the original charm while providing modern amenities. Luxurious bedding, fully air-conditioned spaces, and contemporary conveniences like WiFi, digital entertainment, and optional TV streaming services, are all on tap if you need them.

THE FOOD During our four day stay, our dining experiences at Paloh Restaurant & Bar housed in Ipoh House took us through a mix of both local and international flavours. This all-day restaurant and bar offers a buffet or A La Carte breakfast, and à la carte lunch and dinner. The menu is a delightful fusion of cuisine, showcasing signature dishes like Paloh Nyonya Laksa, Ikan Bakar, Paloh Nutri Salad, and homemade pizzas. We enjoyed heritageinspired dishes such as Daging Salai Cili Api (Negeri Sembilan), Char Kway Teow (Penang), Ipoh Hor Fun (Perak), Curry Debal (Melaka), and more. As the sun clocks out, Paloh Restaurant & Bar goes into full glow-up mode serving innovative bites, drinks, and good vibes. The beverage menu has an impressive wine list, plus cocktails that are liquid poetry. One of the highlights was Monday’s “Music Under the Stars” when the garden turned into party central with the resident band, Lamh & Co., dishing out tunes from every corner of the universe: think acoustic guitars and sound bell drums in a musical love affair. This allowed us to belt out our best sing-along efforts under the Langkawi night sky.

THE ACTIVITIES Nestled within serene surroundings, Temple Tree Resort offers easy access January/February 2024

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to adventure activities and provides a haven to those seeking relaxation. Upon entering its peaceful embrace, the bustling hub of Cenang Beach fades away rapidly. The resort provides two lap pools - one within the lush gardens and another in the Straits House - inviting guests to unwind and cool off. For those seeking ultimate chill, Temple Tree Spa awaits, offering long list of massages.

Dream Forest

Yoga amidst heritage Our journey into Zen unfolded as soon as we awoke thanks to the soothing sounds of nature. Keen to maintain serenity, we rose early for a transformative yoga session held in the Colonial House where others in our group were staying. Our session was guided by seasoned instructor Mohamad Jamil bin Mohamad Salleh (Jamil). Upon admitting our collective lack of bendability, Jamil quickly reassured us that his teachings were centred around breathwork, and each person’s unique journey of self-discovery and inner tranquility. The harmonious blend of Hatha and Yin yoga, presented in a basic class, offered insights into both physical and mental wellbeing.

Heritage dishes

Shop, shop, shopping! Take a leisurely walk to Cenang Mall, the big player in the local shopping scene, staying alive and buzzing till late. Pantai Cenang Beach isn’t just a beach; it’s a blend of nature doing its thing, a dash of adventure, some seriously tasty local eats, and nightlife that’s more laid-back fiesta than all-night rave. Consider this your open invitation to the chill side of life!

Creative Expression with Batik Lagenda Following lunch, we embraced our artistic flair through Batik Lagenda, a family-operated venture led by Nordi Bahrin and his mother. Focused on exclusive batik sessions, they provided a cultural immersion into this art form. During the two-hour session, we delved into the cultural history of Batik and learned techniques before unleashing our individual creativity and bringing our artistic visions to life. We ended the session with a framed creation of our artwork to take home.

Pantai Cenang Beach Dragging ourselves away from the paradise of Temple Tree wasn’t easy. However, the siren calls of Pantai Cenang Beach, just a breezy 10-minute stroll away, was too tempting to resist. This beach offers a smorgasbord of activities to suit all holiday makers. You can dive into a variety of water sports, join in a beach game, or just become one with

freshness and flavours, adds an extra layer to The Cliff’s overall allure. theclifflangkawi.com

your beach towel and soak up the sun. As night falls, the beach transforms into a vibrant strip of bars and restaurants. When the night sky decides to show off, you’re treated to a mini-fireworks spectacle - Langkawi’s own nightly light show. Nearby, ‘beach buskers’ perform captivating stunts, adding a touch of magic to the post-sunset ambience.

The Cliff Restaurant The Cliff Restaurant is Langkawi’s culinary and social haven. Overlooking Pantai Cenang beach, we started with a delightful session of cocktails against the backdrop of a stunning sunset before venturing indoors to savour local culinary treasures. The cuisine, marked by its

Dream Forest Langkawi For those seeking a magical escape, enchanting Dream Forest awaits. Stroll amongst suspended walkways offering panoramic views of the verdant canopy and enter hidden caves filled with secrets and wonders. Enjoy educational exhibits, and engage with interactive displays to deepen your connection with the great outdoors. Choose from well-marked trails catering to different fitness levels. Conveniently located in close proximity to Temple Tree resort, Dream Forest is a fabulous evening out for families looking for a unique and scenic adventure away from the buzz of urban life. dreamforest.com.my

VERDICT: Temple Tree Resort Langkawi offers a harmonious blend of historic charm, modern amenities, and natural wonders. From relaxation amidst heritage to the enchanting escapade of Dream Forest, every moment becomes a timeless journey. Whether seeking adventure or tranquility, a stay here with its surrounding attractions promises an immersive experience, creating memories that linger long after your Langkawi adventure concludes. Lot 1053, Jalan Pantai Chenang, Pantai Cenang, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia. templetree.com.my 86

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SP O N S O R E D C O N T E N T

HOME UPGRADE

These elegant decor ideas add colour, style, and texture to your space with a chic personal twist.

Simple and sleek with subtle pops of spring

hen it comes to our homes, we adore mixing and matching materials, fabrics, and colours - this is what sets Originals apart. Our interior collections are carefully curated from around the world to blend diverse home decor pieces seamlessly. Modern design trends reveal that not everything has to be matchy-matchy. Embracing patterns, textures, and varied materials can elevate your space and provide a unique and personal touch. The key is to lean more towards high style than hot mess.

Cool hues are perfect for SG’s hot climate

Begin with neutrals

Start with neutrals as your canvas. They’re perfect for layering textures and patterns without overwhelming the space. Think neutral hues for major elements like walls, furniture, and floors. It’s your base to build upon.

Blend materials

Combine soft textures like cotton or velvet with rougher ones like linen or wicker. This adds depth to your design. The combination of wood and travertine is also on trend now.

Old & new

Blend contemporary designs with antique pieces for a unique

Earthy tones ooze a back to nature and relaxed feel

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contrast. Play with antique proportions to bring a sense of grandeur into a small contemporary space. Start with a stately vintage focal point like a stripped-down dining table, and complement with modern accent pieces.

Nail the colours

Choose colours that mesh with your room’s vibe. One bold shade with a few secondary ones ties everything together. Coordinating patterns and textures with a coherent colour scheme also avoids overwhelming the space.

Accentuate

Add texture and pattern subtly. Think throw pillows, rugs, curtains - easy elements until you find your perfect mix.

natural elements like plants, wood, or stone. They bring harmony and serenity, making your space inviting.

Create a focal point

A centerpiece ties everything together. Standout furniture, striking artwork, or a feature wall draws the eye and unifies textures and patterns. Mixing textures and patterns can seem daunting, but it’s a game-changer for your home. Start neutral, mix materials, play with patterns, focus on colours, and have fun with accent pieces. Dare to be different! Experiment until your home feels just right.

Embrace nature

Balance textures with

Originals, 1 Bukit Batok Street 22, Level 5, 659592 Open weekdays 10am - 7pm, weekends and PH 10am - 6pm

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NIPPERS

On A High

Nippers completed 2023 with a Volunteer Appreciation Night and a surf trip that won the season. By KAT GILZMER.

he 2023 season has flown by and we look back on some memorable experiences for ANZA Nippers. The year really had it all: comradery, sportsmanship, laughter, travel, a visit from Santa and of course …sausages! There were many highlights, but one standout was the highly anticipated surf trip to the beautiful Desaru Coast at the end of November. Liz Moran reveals what went down over the weekend.

Above left: Fun times on the Roller Coaster at Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast

There were 45 of us from the ANZA Nippers community who met at the Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal early Saturday morning for the Batam Fast Ferry. The place was buzzing with groups of cyclists, golfers and families gearing up for their respective adventures. Leading up to our departure, our WhatsApp group were trading tips for dealing with seasickness, but we needn’t have worried. We reached the Desaru Coast terminal after a smooth 90-minute journey and the sun was shining. Our group then boarded a bus for a 15-minute ride to Hard Rock Hotel Desaru Coast. After check-in we hit the pool. Our kids were extremely impressed by the music system. They certainly had a point - listening to tunes underwater is pretty cool. My eleven-year-old suggested this might have been the best hotel he’d ever stayed at. While I’m not sure about that, we appreciated his enthusiasm. Quick dip completed, it was back to the lobby to board a bus to the beach for our group surf lesson. Our driver took 88

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New Season Incoming!

We cannot wait to find out what the next year has in store for ANZA Nippers! As our community grows and the club goes from strength to strength, we look forward to more trips, events such as our famous Trivia Nights, barbecues and competitions! The 2024 season of ANZA Singapore Nippers kicks off on 3 March, 2024. Registrations are now open via the ANZA website at anza.org.sg/sports/ nippers/registration

Simply the best

Back in November, we held our Volunteer Appreciation Night at Molly Malone’s Irish Pub. Once a year, we come together to celebrate and thank everyone who helps bring Nippers to life. We couldn’t be more grateful to these mums and dads who sacrifice their time for ANZA Nippers on top of work and family commitments. Whether they run an age group, assist the age manager, help with the gear, or grill the sausages, their support and encouragement is what keeps us running, week in and week out. Plus, they’re a good-looking bunch!

us to Wild Boar Bay, a secluded spot ten minutes drive from the hotel. We were met by a team from JomSurf who set our riders up with boards and talked them through the basics before entering the water. The three-foot waves were ideal for the group and the surf instructors were fantastic. Before long, the surfers (both children and parents) were standing up and beaming.

ADVENTURE After two hours in the surf, it was back to the hotel to change before a Seafood Buffet Dinner with the group. Lindsay, our coordinator extraordinaire, had booked

us a private room and the young Nippers quickly took charge, instructing the parents to sit on one side while the kids sat together on the other. On Sunday half of our group went surfing at the adjacent Adventure Waterpark Desaru Coast for a day of rides and slides. While there we met up with other members of the Nippers gang and buddied up on the Roller Coaster, Swinging Ship and Surf Wall. After some cajoling our children agreed to return to the hotel for a tasty Mexican lunch before going back to the adventure park for our final few rides. Then it was back to the hotel for a speedy change before our

ferry trip home. We docked in Singapore at 7pm on Sunday night. While we were only gone for a weekend, it felt like a much longer break. Not only was it a terrific family getaway, we were grateful to share the experience with such a great group from the ANZA Nippers community." For press and media inquiries please contact Kat at sgnipperscomm@gmail.com Stay up to date with ANZA Nippers news by following us on @sgnippers @SingaporeNippers

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C YC L I N G

Tales of teamwork Collaboration took centre stage at ANZA Cycling as adults and kids embraced adventure, developed skills, and celebrated with sausages.

ur first-ever ANZA Family Triathlon Day was a roaring success! Over 30 kids aged 4 - 13 years old went down to Sentosa to learn more about triathlon. Our fantastic ANZA Cycling volunteers taught the children skills across swim, bike and run, and then the kids put it all together with a mini-triathlon! It was brilliant to bring the community together, and to see the kids have so much fun. A huge thank you goes to all our volunteers for making the event enjoyable and safe, and thanks also to our amazing partners, Simply Active for providing kid-friendly hydration, ButcherBox for yummy sausage sandwiches, Trouble Brewing Singapore for some adult sundowners, and Odin Mortgage for providing goodie bags for all the kiddos!

Test of endurance A herculean effort was made from three of our endurance riders who tackled the Audax 600km around Malaysia. Leading the charge was Scott Mitchell, ANZA Cycling Road Director, whose strategic planning and unwavering commitment laid the foundation for this epic adventure along with Harsch Koshti, the ride captain who played a pivotal role in keeping the team’s spirits high throughout the gruelling 600-kilometre journey. Harsch’s infectious enthusiasm and boundless energy was like a shot of adrenaline, ensuring everyone stayed motivated and focused.

Our mini but mighty triathletes

Last but not least was Rishi Randhawa, known for his indomitable spirit and determination. Even though he was riding an aero bike, Rishi proved that dedication and hard work can yield remarkable results. The Audax 600 is a true test of endurance, demanding physical and mental strength. However, with Scott’s guidance, Harsch’s motivation, and Rishi’s cycling finesse, all three emerged tired but successful, underscoring the power of teamwork and dedication. 90

Harsch: Also known as Mr Motivator

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Cycling, but make it Malaysia

Anza Cycling Events Board CLUB RIDES ARE GOING STRONG … The great thing about ANZA Cycling is that we have rides to choose from every day of the week, from “Monday Mandai Madness”, to our flagship Saturday morning club rides, to the Sunday recovery ride. If your new year’s resolution is to get active, check out an induction ride from January onwards. … AS ARE OUR DRINKS NIGHTS! ANZA Cycling’s semi-regular drinks night returned in October, as the club gathered to celebrate a fantastic few months of racing and riding. We closed the year with our famous Christmas Party in December, which included one lucky prize winning recipient returning home with a new bike. No excuse not to get on the road in 2024!

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N E T BA L L

Shooting for success ANZA Netball spent the latter part of 2023 enjoying success in various tournaments, taking every chance available to hone their skills.

he second half of 2023 was overflowing with a range of tournaments and opportunities for ANZA Netball. The players were keen to take advantage of any possibilities that emerged as the netball landscape in Singapore continued to evolve. As we begin a new year, not only are we participating in more leagues and tournaments than ever, but ANZA Netball continues to provide additional opportunities for girls at all development levels. We've been arranging intra-club regular matches with different age groups, as well as inter-club friendly matches with other clubs. We're also training our players in the umpiring space and providing regular scenarios where they can practice their whistle blowing!

Sport Ready Junior League

The Sport Ready Junior League was open to players in the U11 and U12 age groups. ANZA Netball entered more teams than ever before to max out on player participation. The matches were held at Dulwich College on Sunday mornings in September and October. With three ANZA teams in each age group, the club performed well with the following teams finishing in medal winning positions: U11: ANZA Suns (1st place) , ANZA Moons (3rd place) U12: ANZA Cyclones (1st place), ANZA Tornadoes (3rd place) 92

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Lightning, Thunder)

The SGNA Cup

The SGNA Cup was held over a couple of months in late 2023 for the U16 and U14 age groups. Once again ANZA entered multiple teams, with three teams in the U16 Division and two teams in U14. The netball clubs participating were Singapore Netball Academy, Sport Ready, Centaurs, TKSS, Nanyang Lions, and The Netball Academy. ANZA proved to be particularly strong in the U16 age group, with ANZA Storm and ANZA Lightning fighting it out in the grand final. A brilliant effort from all of our players!

SCC Ladies League

Our U16 and U17 players participated in the SCC Ladies League, which took place midweek at UWC Dover. The ANZA team remained in Division 2 this season, defeated only by the SAFSA (Singapore Armed Forces Sports Association). In a reversal of fortune for the final in November, ANZA emerged as Division 2 Champions. Whoop!

Straits Netball Tournament

In December, five ANZA Netball teams travelled to Malaysia to participate in the Straits Netball Tournament at Marlborough College Malaysia. Teams in this tournament were representing U11, U13 and U15 age groups and kicked off the first overseas opportunities for our U11 players.

ANZA Accelerator

The ANZA Accelerator mini league for our younger girls aged U8, U9, and U10 happened at the end of November. This was a friendly tournament with even skills-based teams and a positive experience for all. Many other Singapore clubs were invited which allowed the younger players to put their skills training into practice.

SCC Netball Academy Junior Carnival 2023

In November, ANZA took part in the Singapore Cricket Club Netball Academy Junior Carnival. Our teams competed in the U9, U12 and U14 age groups, resulting in medals and prizes. The carnival provided light-hearted fun and exposure to a competitive environment through mini-games with place playoffs. January/February 2024

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SOCCER

Family Matters Joining a sports group as newbies can feel daunting, but these expats took the fear away by making ANZA Soccer a family affair. By TJITSKE KLASEN.

n 2020, my husband Lauren and I found ourselves back in Singapore after six years living in my homeland of the Netherlands. This time though, we had our seven-yearold daughter, Kiki, and her five-year-old brother, Fedde, in tow. Above: Fedde (right) Below: Tjitske's husband Lauren, second left

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David Lau

Daughter Kiki all kitted out

As parents, we were well aware of the significant positive impact of our children participating in a sports team to stimulate social engagement, teamwork, and physical activity. Friends already living in Singapore were very enthusiastic about their daughter’s experience with ANZA Soccer and it didn’t take long for our children to decide they wanted to give it a try. Fedde had already dipped his toes into soccer in the Netherlands, while Kiki was working on her field hockey skills. From the moment Fedde stepped onto the ANZA soccer field one Saturday morning in January 2021, and despite not speaking a word of English, he quickly found himself making a new friend. My son and his new Australian buddy Will bonded through the universal language of play and laughter. At the same time, Kiki started playing with ANZA Matildas, and she was overjoyed to meet Scarlett who was the same age and instantly made her feel at home, speaking English and Dutch. This newfound friendship boosted her confidence and solidified her passion for playing soccer alongside learning the English language.

Play with your mates Over the course of the following year, we witnessed a growing influx of children from Holland International School and other

Tjitske at ANZA Soccer

European backgrounds joining the ANZA community. We couldn’t help but notice that many parents were curious about what made ANZA so special. The answer, we believe, lies in the unique characteristics of the organisation. ANZA is volunteer-based, fostering a warm and positive atmosphere that resonates with the Dutch philosophy of “play-based learning.” In the unofficial motto of ANZA Soccer in Singapore you’ll find the essence of the experience: “Play with your mates.”

Kiki’s new friendship solidified her passion for soccer and the English language Fast forward to today, and both Kiki and Fedde are fully immersed in the ANZA Soccer scene, dedicating their Saturdays to training and Sundays to competing. And it has become a “family thing”. Lauren is one of the Saturday coaches for Sailors G8 and Matilda’s G9, while I volunteer for both age groups. Our journey with ANZA so far has been a remarkable one, filled with new friendships, shared laughter, and a deep sense of community. It’s a testament to the power of sports and the unique charm of ANZA, where children, parents, and volunteers come together to make every moment on the field a memorable one. January/February 2024

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C R IC K E T

Roll With It NETs sessions are an ideal way to improve your cricket skills and great for boosting team spirit, says GRAEME GARDINER.

or the uninitiated, away from a cricket match, cricket NETs are a staple of practice sessions and give batters and bowlers the chance to brush up on their technique. ANZA Cricket got together for NETs just about every week throughout 2023, with a steady 10 - 15 players turning up to participate. Unlike in Australia, where NETs are an essential part of team selection and training, in Singapore we take on a more social attitude: everyone is welcome to come down. If you haven’t rolled your arm over for many years, ANZA Cricket is the right place to go. There’s no judgement and friendly batsmen and bowlers await. NETs is a great way to get back into the

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NETs stuff to know

NETs kick off each Wednesday at The Cage Sports Park, Kallang from 7pm. We assemble 5-10 people through our WhatsApp chat to roll the arm over. It's not a problem if you don’t want to play games, don't have equipment, and/or just want to do NETs. They are social NETs and everyone is welcome.

game and allows you to leave the stress of Singapore life behind for a few hours. With cricket NETs installed, players don’t need to have another person around to fetch the ball for them during a practice session, so it’s the ideal scenario in which to concentrate on practicing your style without spending time running around a pitch (or accidentally hitting spectators or nearby windows). Regular NETs practice is great for building team spirit, and after a session the ANZA Cricket lads usually get sidetracked by a few cool-down beers, so there is a big social element to “training” the elbow. Currently, NETs is held from 7 - 8pm every Wednesday at The Cage Sports Park, Kallang. And as their nets are undercover, it's always on! ANZA Cricket has a WhatsApp group where we tally up who can make it each week so we book the correct number of lanes. To find out more about ANZA Cricket go to anza.org.sg/ sports/cricket/

SCC Youth Development As yet, ANZA doesn’t run a junior team, but Singapore Cricket Club offers a youth development programme for kids aged 5 - 10. With a variety of sessions running weekends and mid-week, the Cubs Cricket environment is “all about fun and enjoyment through our brilliant game." To find out more contact David Bennett at JuniorCricket@scccricket.com January/February 2024

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Soccer Athletics Cycling Netball Nippers Cricket AFL Photography Scouts Casual Coffee Men’s Group Volunteering Book Clubs Writers Group Knitting & Sewing Investors Group Mahjong Tennis Walking Golf Running Yoga Events Meet-ups Networking Friendships Soccer Athletics Cycling Netball Nippers Cricket AFL Photography Scouts Casual Coffee Men’s Group Volunteering Book Clubs Writers Group Knitting & Sewing Investors Group Mahjong Tennis Walking Golf Running Yoga Events Meet-ups Networking Friendships Soccer Athletics Cycling Netball Nippers Cricket AFL Photography Scouts Casual Coffee Men’s Group Volunteering Book Clubs Writers Group Knitting & Sewing Investors Group Mahjong Tennis Walking Golf Running Yoga Events Meet-ups Networking Friendships Soccer Athletics Cycling Netball Nippers Cricket AFL Photography Scouts Casual Coffee Men’s Group Volunteering Book Clubs Writers Group Knitting ANZ A GROU P S& Sewing Investors Group Mahjong Tennis Walking Golf Running Yoga Events Meet-ups Networking Friendships Soccer Athletics Cycling Netball Nippers Cricket AFL Photography Scouts Casual Coffee Men’s Group Volunteering Book Clubs Writers Group Knitting & Sewing Investors Group Mahjong Tennis Walking Golf Running Yoga Events Meet-ups Networking Friendships Soccer Athletics Cycling Netball Nippers Cricket AFL Photography Scouts Casual Coffee Men’s Group Volunteering Book Clubs Writers Group Knitting & Sewing Investors Group Mahjong Tennis Walking Golf Running Yoga Events Meet-ups Networking Friendships Soccer Athletics Cycling Netball Nippers Cricket AFL Photography Scouts Casual Coffee Men’s Group Volunteering Book Clubs Writers Group Knitting & Sewing Investors Group Mahjong Tennis Walking Golf Running Yoga Events Meet-ups Networking Friendships Soccer Athletics Cycling Netball Nippers Cricket AFL Photography Scouts Casual Coffee Men’s Group Volunteering Book Clubs Writers Group Knitting & Sewing Investors Group Mahjong Tennis Walking Golf Running Yoga Events Meet-ups Networking Friendships Soccer Athletics Cycling Netball Nippers Cricket AFL Photography Scouts Casual Coffee Men’s Group Volunteering Book Clubs Writers Group Knitting & Sewing Investors Group Mahjong Tennis Walking Golf Running Yoga Events Meet-ups Networking Friendships Soccer Athletics Cycling Netball Nippers Cricket AFL Photography Scouts Casual Coffee Men’s Group Volunteering Book Clubs Writers Group Knitting & Sewing Investors Group ANZA Mahjong Tennis Walking Golf Running Events Meet-ups Networking Friendships members are an active bunch,Yoga which is why we offer a plethora Soccer Athletics Cycling Netball Nippers Cricket AFL Photography Scouts Casual Coffee Men’s Group Volunteering Book Clubs Writers of interest moreYoga and Events register at anza.org.sg Group Knitting & Sewing Investors Group Mahjong Tennis groups. Walking Find Golf out Running Meet-ups Networking Friendships Soccer Athletics Cycling Netball Nippers Cricket AFL Photography Scouts Casual Coffee Men’s Group Volunteering Book Clubs Writers Group Knitting & Sewing Investors Group Mahjong Tennis Walking Golf Running Yoga Events Meet-ups Networking Friendships Soccer Athletics Cycling Netball Nippers Cricket AFL Photography Scouts Casual Coffee Men’s Group Volunteering Book Clubs Writers Group Knitting & Sewing Investors Group Mahjong Tennis Walking Golf Running Yoga Events Meet-ups Networking Friendships Soccer Athletics Cycling Netball Nippers Cricket AFL Photography Scouts Casual Coffee Men’s Group Volunteering Book Clubs Writers Group Knitting & Sewing Investors Group Mahjong Tennis Walking Golf Running Yoga Events Meet-ups Networking Friendships SECRET MEN’S BUSINESS WRITERS’ GROUP ANZA SINGAPORE WOMBATS Soccer Athletics Cycling Netball Nippers Cricket AFL Photography Scouts Casual Coffee Men’s Group Volunteering Book Clubs Writers Secret Men’s Business (SMB) is This group of writing WOMBETTESFriendships (AFL) Group Knitting & Sewing Investors Group Mahjong Tennis Walking Golf Running Yoga enthusiasts, Events Meet-upsANDNetworking exclusiveCricket ANZA group and published authors welcomingBook Aussie Rules Football Soccer Athletics Cycling Netball an Nippers AFL made Photography word-lovers Scouts Casual Coffee Men’s Group This Volunteering Clubs Writers up of men of all agesTennis lookingWalking to meetRunning monthly toYoga read and discussMeet-upsprogramme is openFriendships to men and Group Knitting & Sewing Investors Group Mahjong Golf Events Networking catch up with like-minded, friendly their creative work. women aged 18+. Training is on ANZA SCOUTS blokes. The group’s main activity Thursday evenings and Saturdays, Open to everyone aged 5-17, ANZA is golf twice a week. There’s also SINGING with regular social catch-ups. Scouts is about meeting new friends, squash, cycling, tennis, lunches Join our host opera singer developing leadership skills and and drinks. Bernadette Nagy to sing a wide RUNNING being outdoors. They meet every range of songs from pop to choir to Looking for some running Saturday at various locations from STITCHES musicals. Don’t be shy - all singing buddies in Singapore for regular 2 - 4pm. Interested in any type of needlecraft? abilities are welcome. casual runs? The ANZA Running All levels are welcome to join this Group meets on Monday evenings in ART AND CRAFT GROUP relaxed group who sew, chat, and the Botanic Gardens. Join up and learn new craft skills, share creative tips. such as silk painting, bookbinding, SOCCER candle making, sewing, card creation, SET LUNCH Get your kids kicking with ANZA beading, batik, and more. We seek out great value set lunch Soccer! Our well-known programme ANZA CRICKET deals around Singapore to enjoy is open to children aged 2-18, Three cricket teams. Two leagues ANZA ACTION together in group outings. Discover focusing on fair play and community. and one social side. 1-2 teams play The community affairs arm new restaurants and cafes, meet Saturday games and mid-week every week. NETs are on Wednesday for ANZA supports charities in new friends, and enjoy Singapore’s training. evenings. Singapore through fundraising and delicious food scene. volunteering activities. For info visit CASUAL TENNIS ANZA CYCLING the ANZA website. CLICK PHOTOGRAPHY Join our social tennis group. Sessions Join our keen cycling group and you The group meets regularly to share run Friday mornings, 9am - 11am can get out on two wheels every BOOK CLUBS knowledge and advice as well as and Sunday evenings, 7pm - 9pm. morning of the week. Suits most skill We have a number of social book embark on photowalks across the Six-week clinics that focus on levels and includes road, racing, MTB clubs that meet monthly in the island. Everyone is welcome. the fundamentals of tennis run and also triathlon disciplines. morning or evening. Contact us to be throughout the year. connected with a group. KILL-O-METRES ANZA GOLF / 9 HOLE Join ANZA’s walking group to get PICKLEBALL ANZA Golf is a great way to get INVESTORS INTEREST GROUP moving around some of Singapore’s This ANZA Pickleball group meets on outdoors, meet new people and This money-minded group meets great nature reserves and interesting various days and times, at centrally learn how to play the game. The monthly to connect and discuss neighbourhoods. located courts for a friendly hit in 9-hole golf group is aimed at investments and important financial a relaxed atmosphere. All levels of beginners and is very friendly. matters for expats. EASY RIDERS players are welcome. This cycling group explores ANZA NETBALL CASUAL COFFEE Singapore’s Park Connector Network ANZA WATERSPORTS ANZA Netball offers a fun, inclusive Sometimes you just need a good (PCNs) and off-road bike paths. Get out on the water with this group and competitive netball programme cuppa and a friendly welcome. Participants will need their own bike that includes SUP, kayaking and for players aged 5-16. Teams play Casual Coffee catch ups are being and a helmet. sailing. SUP and kayaking take place Saturday mornings at Tanglin Trust held on various days and locations on various days at Sentosa and East School, with a mix of parent and around the island. LADIES NIGHT Coast. Sailing is at various Marina professional coaches. ANZA organises monthly girls-only clubs quarterly. MAHJONG get togethers at various hotspots NIPPERS Join our group mahjong sessions on in Singapore. They’re a great way to Children aged 5-14 learn ocean Monday evenings and various days widen your social circle, and always a awareness through fun surf lifesaving in different locations. It’s fast paced, good night out. activities, including paddling, social and great fun. running and swimming. Sunday mornings at Palawan Beach, Sentosa.

Join the Community!

INTEREST GROUPS

SPORTS GROUPS

disclaimer ANZA offers many and varied activities and events to benefit its members. Occasionally, and due to circumstances outside of ANZA’s control, activities or events (including sporting competitions and seasons) may be cancelled or subject to date, venue or content changes. Every effort is made to avoid this, but where it does happen, neither membership or ticket fees are refundable. Current and prospective members and guests are encouraged to reference both the constitution and terms and conditions of ticketed events.

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SP O T L IG H T O N

PSSST!

Pass It On! Secret Men’s Business has spoken! It took some convincing, but we managed to get some confidential intel from newly appointed social skipper, MIKE SABEY.

Below left: Mike in action

an you keep a secret? The members of ANZA’s Secret Men’s Business (SMB) certainly can, as those who've tried to uncover just what happens at this mysterious ANZA group can confirm. While participant's lips have always remained tightly sealed, ANZA magazine has managed to prize a little information out of them, especially as times are changing for this exclusive Man Club. Due to the departure of long-time SMB leader Patrick Taylor, Ross Cramp and Mike Sabey are now sharing the responsibility of skippering the social side of the group. As neither of them play golf (a massive part of SMB, apparently), Chris Easton is overseeing the sporty side of the show. “The goal of SMB is men including 'male trailing spouses' to get together for golf, lunch, drinks, dinners, male bonding, and to solve world issues,” shares Mike, an SMB member for the past six years. “We

We get together for golf, lunch, drinks, and dinners, and to solve world issues keep in contact via various WhatsApp groups, and it’s very casual. SMB provides blokes with a good support network, especially for newly arrived trailing spouses who aren’t into coffee or mahjong.” While Mike tried his best to keep as schtum as possible, he did reveal that SMB is in fact “not all about the golf, but it is a great excuse." He says, "We’ve been known to go cycling, walking, and play the odd game of tennis on occasion. Most importantly though – shhhhhh! it’s all secret men’s business!”

WHAT TO EXPECT

A weekly golf group with access to a few courses in Singapore A UK vs ANZAC tournament held twice a year in Batam called the OBrien’s, and an annual Masters Tournament held at Hua Hin in Thailand Monthly SMB lunches held every third Wednesday at SQUE bar, Clark Quay Central. There’s also an annual Christmas lunch Meet-ups for State of Origin and other grand final events Impromptu sessions for beers and a laugh (organised via the “Proper Drinkers” WhatsApp group). Venues include Heros and Mogambos to make the most of our exclusive ANZA member’s discount!

SMB is free to join and you must be an ANZA member to sign up. The group proudly support the charity Melrose Home Children’s Aid Society (childrensaidsociety.org.sg) and certain fines are handed out for infractions on the golf course during tournaments and at other SMB events for charity. Find out more at anza.org.sg/groups/secret-mens-business/

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N EW M E M B E R S

NEW MEMBERS

WE ARE DELIGHTED TO WELCOME NEW MEMBERS EVERY MONTH TO THE ANZA COMMUNITY.

Jane Blakeney Watts

Matthew Rowe

Julia Messano

Tim Winter

Joshua Watts

Christine Cowan

Rachael Pollard

Trix Winter

Steven D Golden

Libby Ryan

Greg Barnes

Karolina Tilson

Sarah Gittoes

Prath Ganeswaran

Irulappan Karthik

Bryan Tilson

Dorys Fierro

Ceaser Wesala

Nigel King

Lee Chong Han

Manuel Ramos

Nahar Khan

Sukhdeep King

Louise Young

Do Thi Thanh Hien

Vivian Agethen

Scott Barber

Fraser McLean

Luong Quy Tho

George Agethen

Christine Lee

Natalia Rachel

Angela Torres

Falk Brauer

Nicolette Hendricks

Evan Charles

Claus Andresen

Sabine Kenpe

William Hendricks

Laurent Junique

Nagi Hamiyeh

Sundar Chidambaram

Renee Tan

Loretta Junique

Joumana Hamiyeh

Visalakshi Ramanathan

Alvaro Baena

Jason Michael Phillips

Tom Manley

Daniel Stuart-Smith

Katie Basha

Shelly Phillips

Jasmine Ginty

Sarah Stuart-Smith

Izhar Basha

Henry Sleath

Peter Williams

Tyla Huynh

Kate Geraghty

Ella Cox

Tracy Williams

Leonardo Messano

Mark McFarlane

Scott Slack-Smith

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Paris Buti

Adam Garrett

Shaye Parlade

Emily Aylett

Lucy Gordon

Angela Locke

Seung Jin Kim

Tash Lawrence

Nicholas Couch

Kimberleigh Shaw

Min Kim

Mike Lawrence

Maria Suarez Diaz

Joe Kirtley

Stephanie Brown

Fiona Lim

Michael Rowe

Nama Patel

Alistair Brown

Goh Xueying

Bernard Ryan

Ric Barbiellini

Fany Ayuningtyas

Yoann Sapanel

Andhari Zairina

James Redden

Lim Pang Ooi

Louise Hall

Andre De Lima Pousinho

Sarah Redden

Richard Wetzki

Peter Hall

Catherine Bleger

Peter John Baillie

Francois Bleger

Sreynat Chan

Graham Smallshaw

Bridget Di Certo

Louisa Smallshaw

Isla Hughes

Merrin Brand

Philip Smith

Les Brand

Corinne Smith

Ben Munroe

Gladys Pang

Oonagh Grace

Kate Churchill

Artur Spiguel

John Churchill

Eugenie Spiguel

Chandni Kundandas

Wong Zse Yin

David Corcia

Wong Yit Min

Cammy Lu

Lizzi Seear

Donna Fine

Alun Westoll

Andrea Huber

Claudia Ribeiro

Conrad Huber

Scott Murray

Jyotit Kaushal

Muhammad Khairul Adha

Alexander Persano

Mohamed Nasir Adham Ariqi Muhammad Khairul

ANZA NEW MEMBER GIVEAWAY Congratulations to TYLA HUYNH Winner of $125 Gift Voucher from Yin Bar at The Riverhouse

NEW MEMBERS PREMIER PARTNER

NEW MEMBERS SILVER PARTNERS

Elissa Cunsolo Prue Schneider Justin Edwards

Adha Nor Aqira Ismail

Michelle Jordan

Lucy Garrett

Adrien Pinsard

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ANZA Pickleball Clinics

Pickleball is taking the world by storm! It’s fast moving, heaps of fun and will get your fitness levels up.

Mixed Social Tennis

The ANZA Mixed Social Tennis groups get together on Friday mornings 9am - 11am and Sunday evenings 7pm - 9pm. Players of all abilities are welcome.

The ANZA Social Pickleball group plays at centrally located courts on various days of the week. Join us for a fun hit in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. All levels of players are welcome.

! S LUANZA Discover Tennis Clinics

The ANZA Discover Tennis Clinics are a six-week programme designed for newcomers wanting to learn the basic skills of tennis, or for players wanting to refresh their technique.

ANZA Kill-O-Metres

walk

Discover Singapore on foot with ANZA Kill-o-Metres. Walking groups depart from all over Singapore.

Ladies 9 Hole Golf

Looking to kickstart your golf game? This relaxed group of females meet on Tuesday mornings. Other activities include group lessons and social events. Suitable for beginners and those seeking a handicap.

VENUE: Mandai Executive Golf Course Upper Seletar Reservoir, Mandai Rd Track 7, 779384

anza.org.sg/groups/walking

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A N Z A M E M B E R D I S C OU N T S

ANZA members enjoy 15% discount on F&B at Pullman Singapore Hill Street

anza.org.sg/member-discounts

THE LAKEHOUSE, CAMERON HIGHLANDS bit.ly/Lakehouse-ANZA Special room rates with complimentary Mojito-making class for two people. Minimum three consecutive night stay at the link above

CASA DEL RIO, MELAKA bit.ly/CasadelRio-ANZA 18% off Bed & Breakfast offer. Minimum two consecutive night stay at the link above

CASA DEL MAR, LANGKAWI bit.ly/CasadelMar-ANZA 15% off when you book a three consecutive night stay at the link above

HERO’S heros.sg 10% discount on all nonpromotional beverages

MOGAMBO BAR & RESTAURANT mogambo.sg 10% discount on all nonpromotional beverages

BQ BAR bqbar.com 15% off the total bill and 20% off during your birthday month

MOLLY MALONE’S molly-malone.com 15% off the total bill and 20% off during your birthday month

AMÒ amorestaurant.sg 10% off the total bill

CAFE MELBA cafemelba.com.sg 15% off the total bill and 20% off during your birthday month

THE EXCHANGE theexchange.com.sg 15% off the total bill and 20% off during your birthday month

YIN BAR yinyang.sg/yin Complimentary classic cocktail when dining-in

BEVVIES bevvies.sg 10% off all products online

MISS FITZ missfitzsg.com 10% off drinks, 5:30pm - 7:30 pm daily

THE MEAT CLUB themeatclub.com.sg $12 off total order with no minimum spend

SANTI’S santis.pizza 10% off in-store and online

SARNIES sarnies.com 10% off in-store and online

HARRY’S harrys.com.sg 15% off total food and beverage bill and 10% off spirit bottles when registered using the Harry’s mobile app e-card

BRACI

RYAN’S GROCERY

braci.sg 10% off the total bill

ryansgrocery.com 10% off Grocery and Butchery Items

LEVANT

RYAN’S KITCHEN

levant.sg 10% off the total bill

ryanskitchensg.com 1-for-1 Main Course

SOUTHBRIDGE

EL CHIDO

southbridge.sg 10% off the total bill

pullmansingaporehillstreet.com/ restaurants-bars/el-chido 15% discount on Food & Beverage from A La Carte Menu

LUCE BY DAVIDE GIACOMELLI singapore.intercontinental.com/ dine/lobby-lounge 20% off Food & Beverage A La Carte Menu, Semi-Buffet Lunch and Sunday Brunch

THE LOBBY LOUNGE

MADISON’S

singapore.intercontinental.com/ dine/lobby-lounge 20% off Food & Beverage A La Carte Menu and Weekdays Afternoon Tea

CLUBHOUSE SG

goodmates.sg 20% discount using the code ‘GMANZA20’ with a minimum spend of $120

LOCABA locaba.sg 15% off online purchase

KNOTS CAFE knotscafeandliving.com 10% off the total bill

pullmansingaporehillstreet.com/ restaurants-bars/madisons 15% discount on Food & Beverage from A La Carte Menu

1-ARDEN

clubhousesg.com 20% off the total bill (food and beverage and simulator rental, if applicable)

GOODMATES

MOGA pullmansingaporehillstreet.com/ restaurants-bars/moga 15% discount on Food & Beverage from A La Carte Menu

1-arden.sg $11++ for selected cocktails and 10% off the Food & Beverage menu

ATICO LOUNGE & BAR 1-atico.sg 1-for-1 on selected cocktails, housepour wines at $15++ (excluding champagnes)

FIRE firerestaurant.sg 10% off total bill

FLNT flnt.sg/flnt 10% off total bill

Terms & conditions apply to member discounts. Please check our website for details of each offer before you go. January/February 2024

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10 MI NUTES W ITH

10 MINUTES WITH...

A PROFESSIONAL MATCHMAKER best pairings, there’s also a science to what makes a couple work wonderfully.

Tell us about DHF ... It’s a luxury matchmaking service catered for professionals, business owners, and high-networth individuals with marriage in mind. We tend to cater to men and women in Singapore in their 30s, 40s and 50s. I also serve global clients who are jet-setters and can meet their potential life partner anywhere. Since we launched in 2018 there have been over 1,400+ Date High Flyer marriages. (And I’ve been to around 50 of those weddings!)

What are your clients looking for in love?

Love is in the air with Valentine’s Day in February. Anisa Hassan shares what she’s discovered about relationships after more than 20 years working in the dating industry. How’s the dating scene in SG today? It will always remain vibrant as Singapore is a cosmopolitan city with a substantial number of expatriates looking for connection while anchoring their roots here. What’s interesting is that dating among seniors has become more widely accepted and more people are finding love at a later age.

What’s been the biggest change to dating over the past 20 years? The scene has shifted globally because dating apps are now prevalent and acceptable. More people are networking online, but in the age of AI, they’re craving real, authentic connections more than ever. No amount of chatting online can replace a face-to-face meeting where you can feel chemistry.

Did Covid affect the love landscape? Definitely. A lot of people put their dating life on pause, but sometimes it takes a crisis for people to reconsider their priorities. When the pandemic ended, many singles, especially those in their 40s and upwards started reviving 104

their dating lives. At this age, people don’t tend to use their careers as an excuse not to delve into finding their dream partner.

You are CEO of dating agency, Date High Flyers (DHF). How did you become a matchmaker? I trained as a journalist and I’m also a people person. Being naturally curious, getting to know my clients, and building a safe and dependable relationship is my forte. I was also trained by the best matchmakers in the world to develop empathy, compassion, and an eye for detail in looking at potential candidates.

Was it easy to master the art? I didn’t get good overnight. I had to learn a lot about myself through my own relationships with my clients. I also had to delve into human psychology to understand what makes relationships work. This included learning about past trauma, attachment styles, and conditioning from parents or previous relationships. What I do is not an art where I’m intuitively guided to make the

I observe that women tend to slow down their search when they’re in their 50s, while men continue to try and find a mate into their 70s. Men looking for wife material look for someone with feminine qualities that exude ease and flow, selfconfidence, and who is supportive of their hopes and dreams. Women look for men with leadership qualities, a sense of direction, and the ability to provide, protect, and preserve their heart.

Can you instantly tell whether a pairing will work? As part of my matchmaking involves coaching, I can never emphasise the need for the individual to build on their self-awareness. When we’re aware of who we are and conscious of the decisions we make as an individual worthy of love, we attract the right kind of people who will be equally committed to making a relationship work.

What advice do you have for those looking for love? Have the conviction that there’s someone out there for you; being vulnerable is the first step towards being loved and accepted. List the qualities you’re looking for in a partner and reflect on whether you possess those qualities yourself. And be open to having fun while dating. Two people will generally gravitate towards each other when they’re matching each other’s positive vibe. datehighflyers.com

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