HRM 16.8 Supplement

Asia’s finest MICE destinations Unique teambuilding activities ISSUE 16.8

ANNUAL

MICE GUIDE 2016

MICE NEWS SINGAPORE

GLOBAL

TECH TRADE SHOWS ON THE WAY

MARRIOTT LOOKS TO MEETINGS

Singapore will be hosting a slew of business events focused on the information and medical technologies sectors from this year.

According to the Singapore Tourism Board, the technologyfocused events range from globally-renowned meetings to regional conventions making their debuts in Singapore.

These events aim to attract leading industry thought leaders, providing delegates with compelling content and opportunities to exchange knowledge and expertise among local and regional leaders.

“As a city with a multitude of strategic industries, Singapore is delighted to welcome MICE events that further add to our economic vibrancy. Events that offer stimulating content and inspire further dialogue will also build up our thought leadership, which is important for our knowledgedriven industries,” said Melissa Ow, Deputy CEO of the Singapore Tourism Board.

Two upcoming events will be highlighting the future of the internet and cyber-security.

The ISACA Cybersecurity Nexus Asia-Pacific will take place in November this year, and the Internet Engineering Task Force 100 meeting is scheduled for November next year.

Both events are expected to bring approximately 2,500 IT engineers and developers from all over the world to Singapore. They will explore initiatives on new internet framework development and cyber security structure enhancements for internet users worldwide.

Marriott International is rapidly expanding its global meeting space portfolio, as it vies for lucrative business from space-hungry corporations and large groups who want to meet, eat and sleep all in the same location.

In the coming year, the US-based international hotel chain will unveil scores of new ballrooms and properties worldwide, on top of new guest experiences for “valued, tech-savvy road warriors”, said Brian King, Marriott’s Global Officer of Brand Management and Sales.

He made the announcement during his speech to the Global Business Travel Association’s annual convention in the US last month.

King said corporate travel remained a major priority for the company. He highlighted several projects that are set to add to its MICE offerings, particularly under its Gaylord Hotels subsidiary.

They include the new Gaylord Rockies

Resort and Convention Centre in Colorado, which will boast two million square feet of space and be the largest hotel and convention centre in the state when it opens in late 2018.

Marriott also plans to open more than 100 luxury and lifestyle hotels around the world over the next 12 months. In particular, the AC by Marriott brand will continue its global expansion to Brazil, Mexico and Germany. Three new JW Marriott properties will also launch in China, while the Ritz-Carlton is debuting in Langkawi, Malaysia.

UK

WHAT DO EMPLOYEES THINK ABOUT TEAMBUILDING? More than one out of four UK employees find organised teambuilding activities useful for team bonding and boosting workplace productivity. However, another three out of ten employees actually believe that organised team building activities are a waste of time.

Activia Training, which surveyed 1,250 workers in the UK, has also revealed that 34% of its respondents would rather just go to work than participate in group cohesion events.

Another 22% of the workers surveyed said they would prefer to engage in skills-based training, while 15% of the respondents felt that team building had little benefit other than boosting morale.

The survey found that young people between the ages of 18 and 34 tended to see the value of teambuilding more than their older colleagues.

In fact, this age bracket represented more than 60% of the workers who said teambuilding helped to boost productivity.

The older age group (workers between

the ages of 35 and 65) was more likely to value specific skills-based training.

Gender differences also play a role. Men were less inclined to find teambuilding enjoyable or effective, with almost 40% of male respondents indicating they would prefer to carry on with their daily work.

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PROFILE

THAILAND CONVENTION & EXHIBITION BUREAU

Teambuilding:

Why Thailand is the best place to bond E

very business leader knows that happy employees who work well together can take productivity through the roof. But few organisations are lucky enough to have a perfect group dynamic – this is where teambuilding comes in.

By encouraging problem-solving, collaboration and teamwork via fun, challenging activities, employees see each other in a new light and make closer connections. Head overseas for teambuilding and you’ll enjoy even better results. Being away from everyday office stress and exploring an exciting new place kick-starts the bonding process. And Thailand offers excellent options!

Thailand’s Meeting, Incentive, Convention and Exhibition sector is thriving and most businesses holding business events take advantage of teambuilding opportunities. Thailand offers beautiful,

Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau c/o The Tourism Company 73 Arab Street #02-01 Singapore 199770 Tel: +65 6291 2273 Fax: +65 6292 5882 Web: www.businesseventsthailand.com

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fascinating destinations and adventurous and cultural activities, with many events planners who can organise memorable bonding sessions.

In Thailand, you can set up nearly any activity to suit the age, and fitness levels of your team.

Sometimes, the most effective teambuilding activities are the simplest.

An afternoon studying meditation or learning the rudiments of Thai cooking gets your team thinking as a group and they even learn a skill to take home.

Perhaps you have an active young team who’ll get a kick out of adrenalin-fuelled fun such as climbing in a national park, dragonboat racing, wild-camping in the jungle or beach sports. More recently, teambuilding activities

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have included corporate social responsibility initiatives. Your staff can bond through activities such as sea turtle releases, mangrove or rice planting, and beach cleaning and give a little back simultaneously.

Remember, while there’s no “I” in team, there’s plenty of adventure in Thailand.

So, visit the kingdom

for a teambuilding session that will ensure your employees become closer than ever, and work together harmoniously and happily – giving a boost to your business.

PROFILE

KAI GARDEN

The premier Cantonese food destination and events venue at Marina Square S ince opening last December 2015, Kai Garden, owned and helmed by one of Singapore’s most sought-after and awardwinning chef Fung Chi Keung, has established itself as the premier destination for Cantonese cuisine. Known for his masterful and creative interpretations of heritage Cantonese recipes, Chef Fung serves exquisitelycrafted dishes that stay true to the rich Cantonese flavours while harmonising the traditional with modern presentation.

Offering an extensive range of menu items from traditional dim sum favourites and succulent roasts to a wide selection of exquisite Cantonese dishes, Kai Garden uses only the freshest of seasonal ingredients to create dishes such as the comforting Braised Chicken with Flower Crab and Wok-fried Garoupa

Kai Garden 6 Raffles Boulevard #03-128A/128B, Marina Square, Singapore 039594 Opening Hours: Mondays to Fridays Lunch: 11.30am to 3.30pm (last order 2.30pm) Dinner: 6.00pm to 11.00pm (last order 10.00pm) Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays 11.00am to 4.00pm (last order 3.30pm) Reservations Tel: +65 6250 4826 Web: www.kaigarden.com.sg

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Fillet with Spring Onions served in Stone Pot, or exquisite creations such as Lobster Pomelo Salad with Peking Duck Slice and Garoupa Poached in Lobster Broth. Guests are able to customide their own menu to suit their budget and event, such as choosing hearty wholesome dishes for intimate affairs among friends and colleagues, or more refined dishes for business and corporate dining.

With a flexible layout, Kai Garden makes an ideal event venue for hosting corporate events, celebrating special occasions, business entertaining and private dining. As the biggest restaurant within Marina Square, Kai Garden evokes the decadence of an emperor’s courtyard, accommodating up to 200 seated diners comfortably for large scale events and functions. For clients that wish to hold more intimate or smaller scale events, there are various options for smaller groups that include a large multipurpose room for up to 60 guests, and four private rooms for parties of four to 16 people.

Having served celebrities, government officials, business tycoons and royalty, Chef Fung Chi Keung and team can definitely be entrusted to ensure that events held at Kai Garden will be fondly remembered for time to come.

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ABOUT KAI GARDEN Located in Marina Square, Kai Garden is a restaurant that specialises in fine Cantonese cuisine. Heading the kitchens is Owner and Executive Chef Fung Chi Keung, an award-winning chef whose inimitable style and sumptuous dishes have placed him among the elite of much sought-after chefs in Singapore.

About owner and executive chef Fung Chi Keung

Hong Kong born Fung Chi Keung is one of Singapore’s renowned, awardwinning chefs, with over 30 years of culinary experience. From the age of 15 years old, he worked his way through Hong Kong’s local restaurants and some of Singapore’s fine establishments, including Neptune Theatre Restaurant and Meritus Mandarin Singapore. He joined the Paradise Group as the Group Executive Chef in 2005 to launch its first fine dining concept, Taste Paradise. He won several awards for the group, including a Gold Medal at the Food and Hospitality Asia 2012 – Imperial Challenge where he led the team in the regional cooking competition to the finals.

An established and sought-after-name among the discerning diners of traditional Cantonese cuisine, Chef Fung’s vast clientele has included celebrities, government officials, business tycoons and royalty.

FEATURE

DESTINATIONS

ASIA’S M MICE GEMS Companies are increasingly looking beyond local shores when it comes to corporate events and activities. HRM Asia susses out some of the top MICE destinations in Asia Fiona Lam fiona.lam@hrmasia.com.sg

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ore Singapore employers are venturing away from the Central Business District, to hold their meetings, incentives, conventions and exhibition (MICE) events overseas.

To cater to them, countries across the region are stepping up their game to offer a compelling mix of cuttingedge event venues, luxury hotels, and unique activities to engage and train staff members.

Thanks to the growth of Asia’s emerging markets, new players like Yangon, Manila and Colombo are also emerging on the MICE scene.

MICE planners searching for memorable locations for their events consider a list of factors that includes safety, quality of facilities, accessibility, affordability, accommodation, and uniqueness of experience.

HRM Asia highlights three new hotspots in Asia that tick all the boxes.

DESTINATIONS FEATURE

MALAYSIA MICE event planners rate Malaysia highly for its exotic range of experiences, from lush tropical rainforests, to unique wildlife, to island resorts.

Adding to the allure is the country’s rich blend of Malay, Chinese, Indian, Peranakan, and indigenous cultures, says Sadie Yeoh, General Manager for Malaysia at Destination Asia.

“Malaysia has excellent international air access, award-winning convention facilities, and good infrastructure. It also offers a wide variety of accommodation and economic stability,” Yeoh says.

The relatively weak Malaysian ringgit means even more bang for buck for event organisers and attendees, particularly as the US dollar continues to strengthen.

“Malaysia is very affordable, and organisers can lower their overall expenditure there,” Yeoh says.

Although the two Malaysia Airlines aviation tragedies in 2014 lowered Malaysia’s tourist arrivals by 6.2% between 2014 and 2015, the numbers have been Traditional dancers in Bangkok recovering this year. The first quarter of 2016 saw a 2.8% increase in tourist arrivals.

“The business outlook is now turning around, with positive results forecast for 2016,” says Yeoh. A strong growth in visitor arrivals for the remainder of the year is expected.

To grow the MICE industry, Tourism Malaysia and the Malaysia Convention and Exhibition Bureau are working closely with destination management companies. Improvements and new programmes are on the horizon, as are additional funds to support a “confidence rebound”, Yeoh says.

In Penang, the Penang Convention and Exhibition Bureau was recently formed as the state MICE bureau, for example.

Beach dining in Malaysian Borneo Also helping to boost the

industry are new developments across the country, including luxury hotels such as the Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur and Ritz Carlton Langkawi.

The Langkawi International Convention Centre also opened its doors last October, with a ballroom that can seat up to 1,200 participants.

A convention centre in Penang is also scheduled to open in early 2017.

“Malaysia has a great deal of unrealised potential as a destination,” Yeoh says.

In particular, the Langkawi islands off the northwestern coast are gaining popularity for hosting incentive events. The archipelago is known for its beaches, rainforest, mangroves, and paddy fields. “You can combine your meetings with exploring the idyllic villages, take to the waters for snorkeling and scuba diving, or just laze on the tropical island beach,” Yeoh suggests.

MACAU Once a favourite haunt for gamblers and holiday-makers, the Macau special administrative region of China is now building a reputation as a go-to hub for premier international corporate events.

A rising star in the Asian MICE scene, Macau has been gaining ground as a business travel destination, thanks to its blend of Chinese and Portuguese cultures, ample entertainment options, and a slew of new hotels. This comes as the city is reducing its reliance on the gambling industry, with the glitz of its casinos now dimming amid China’s economic slowdown and corruption crackdown.

“Macau used to be a destination for gamblers, but it is now clearly becoming one of the best MICE and entertainment destinations for meeting organisers in Asia,” says Julien Delerue, CEO of Shanghai-based 1000Meetings, which maintains an online directory of hotels and meeting spaces and provides planning services for corporate meetings.

The convention and exhibition industry has been one of Macau’s fastestemerging sectors in recent years.

In 2015, a total of 831 meetings and conferences were hosted in Macau, up 125 from the previous year.

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Small and medium events are typically held in Macau’s historic centre, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Situated on the city’s picturesque waterfront is luxury hotel Sofitel Macau At Ponte 16, a popular venue for events for 20 to 120 attendees, as it is within walking distance of key tourist attractions.

For larger events with up to 5,000 participants, the ritzy Cotai area offers several hotels, a 50,000 square-metre convention space, a 15,000-seat arena, as well as large duty-free shopping centres and restaurants.

Meanwhile, new hotels and entertainment facilities are also lifting Macau’s popularity as a MICE paradise.

Cotai’s room inventory of 13,000 last year is expected to have doubled by the end of 2017, says Delerue.

Hollywood-themed resort Studio City opened to much fanfare late last year, boasting a Batman ride, a figure-eight Ferris wheel, and 1,600 hotel rooms.

Crowne Plaza Macau, a 208-room, fivestar hotel under the InterContinental Hotels Group, also joined the scene in the historic centre last December.

“With the largest available convention spaces in Asia, Macau is definitely one of the best places to hold major conventions and host incentive groups,” Delerue says.

THAILAND The Land of Smiles has long been known for its hospitality and service delivered with heart.

Marini’s On 57 is Kuala Lumpur’s highest rooftop bar Thailand’s beautiful beaches and wild jungles, myriad of shopping areas, wealth of history and culture, as well as adventure and team-building playgrounds make it a favoured destination for holding business events.

Most MICE visitors to Thailand come from China, India and Singapore.

Despite recent unrest in the country and region, Thailand remains a popular MICE and tourist destination.

The ease of access and world-class infrastructure still make Thailand a go-to centre for connecting businesses in Southeast Asia, especially for those seeking a gateway into the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Economic Community.

The country has seven international

airports, and Bangkok’s mass transit system is also growing rapidly, with total routes set to extend beyond 500 kilometres by 2029.

However, some visitors may not be used to Bangkok’s mass of iconic threewheeled taxis. The world-famous tuktuks, which are known for their careening ways on the roads, offer another valuable local transport option for MICE delegates.

Last year, a total of just under 1.1 million people attended business events in Thailand, raking in some THB 96 billion (US$2.75 billion) in revenue, according to the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB).

Conventions were the most popular type of event, bringing over 294,000 visitors.

“We enjoyed growth of at least five percent in both revenue and the number of travellers,” says Nopparat Maytheveekulchai, President of TCEB. The ASEAN region has also looked to Thailand for help with its goal to boost the MICE industry across the region.

It has adapted Thailand’s MICE Venue Standard as the model for improvement across all 10 member countries.

Topping the list of key MICE cities in Thailand is Bangkok, whose city centre alone boasts around 300 hotels. The capital also has seven convention and exhibition centres, providing more than 105,000 square metres of floor space in total.

Other popular Thai cities for business events include Chiang Rai, Kon Kaen, Phuket, and Pattaya.

The Chiang Mai International Convention and Exhibition Centre 8

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MAXWELL CHAMBERS PROFILE

More than an arbitration hearing hub L

ocated in the heart of Singapore’s business district and just beside Tanjong Pagar MRT Station, Maxwell Chambers is the country’s main international arbitration centre as Singapore continues to be increasingly acknowledged as a legal hub.

It houses both best-of-class hearing facilities as well as top international Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) institutions.

However, Maxwell Chambers is much more than simply being a host to legal arbitration hearings.

It has also solidified its reputation as being a reliable and competent host to a variety of local and international corporate functions in the past few years, including conferences, annual general meetings, and even cocktail receptions.

Maxwell Chambers’ clients have included Multinational Corporations such as DBS, The Bank of Tokyo Mitsubishi UFJ, JP Morgan, Statutory Boards including the Central Provident Fund (CPF), Singapore Tourism Board, Singapore Economic Development Board,

Maxwell Chambers 32 Maxwell Road, #03-01, Singapore 069115 Tel: +65 6595 9010 Fax: +65 6339 3931 Email:sales@maxwell-chambers.com

Government organisations such as Ministry of Law, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Manpower, Small and Medium Enterprises, and even embassies such as the Netherlands Embassy.

Suitable for a plethora of events such as seminars, training workshops, networking events, product demonstrations, and board meetings, Maxwell Chambers is a prestigious and refurbished four-storey conservation building of architectural and historical significance, having been originally designed as the Customs House in the early 1940s.

It comprises of 10 customdesigned and fully-equipped hearing rooms and 12 preparation rooms on the third and fourth levels secured by a private lift lobby not accessible to the public.

With businesses constantly looking to organise customised and niche events, Maxwell Chambers fits the bill with its sleek and customisable room layouts

being able to accommodate up to 160 people.

Be dazzled by the domeshaped Cavenagh Room, which caters to a maximum of 60 people, or the extralarge Stamford Raffles Room, which houses up to 160 delegates.

Boasting of an exclusive and private atmosphere along with acoustically treated rooms, state-ofthe-art AV equipment and technical support, video and tele-conferencing services, and most crucially, free wireless internet connection all around, organisations are guaranteed to engage in fruitful and productive meetings and discussions, and will be

able to solely focus on their business agenda.

In addition to rooms, Maxwell Chambers also offers printing and photocopying services, allowing clients to focus on the task at hand and to ease their concerns over administrative issues.

For those seeking to engage in some quiet thinking or to attend to some urgent business matters, Maxwell Chambers also consists of a business room for clients to fully concentrate on their professional matters.

There is also a lounge foyer that clients can book for cocktail receptions, complete with an extensive range of catered food and beverages.

Coupled with all-round quality hospitality and excellent customer service, ample parking facilities within the vicinity and a wide selection of bars and restaurants in the building itself, Maxwell Chambers is the ideal and trusted choice for all your meeting and event needs.

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PROFILE

PARK AVENUE CONVENTION CENTRE

New paradigm in events hosting P

ark Avenue Convention Centre, situated within the vibrant buzz of UE BizHub East, is Singapore’s next generation and knowledge-intensive business meeting space.

It caters for large-scale meetings, seminars, conferences, exhibitions and other special events with up to 5,700 squarefeet in floor space and approximately up to 600 delegates.

The Convention Centre has a unique circular layout with built-in operable walls, making it a flexible venue for different kind of events.

Equipped with largescale screen projectors, theatrical lightings and convention hall acoustics, our Convention Centre is your perfect venue to cater to your event needs.

Previously known as UE Convention Centre, Park Avenue Convention Centre was welcomed to the hospitality division

To find out more, please contact: Park Avenue Convention Centre Sales Office: 2 Changi Business park Avenue 1 Singapore 486015 Tel: +65 6809 7288 Email: parkavenue@uel.sg Web: www.parkavenueintl.com

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of Park Avenue Group in 2015. This merger brings a new meaning to its business operations where it moves us forward to become a leading integrated accommodation and meeting service provider in Asia.

Strategic location with excellent accessibility Just 10-minute drive away from Changi International Airport and in the heart of Changi Business Park, Park Avenue Convention Centre is well-served by the transport system with Expo MRT Station just at its doorstep. With the upcoming Downtown line opening in the early quarter of 2017, it is never more convenient for you and your team to hold your major events with us.

Flexible meeting spaces in the east Park Avenue Convention Centre is one versatile meeting space, featuring over 5,700 square-feet of flexible space for you to run your seminars, conferences, gala dinners, weddings, and meeting rooms to run your boardroom meetings.

Dedicated and differentiated service With a passion to host and to serve, we have a dedicated team to support your every

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needs – from operations, logistics, catering to hospitality. You are assured of our professional execution and the creation a memorable event for you and your guests.

Integrated accommodation options Located next to the

Convention Centre, Park Avenue Changi Hotel has 251 well-appointed room and suites to ensure that your guests’ needs are well taken care of. Our contemporary and stylish furnishings and amenities offer our guests comfortable living spaces to keep them pampered and occupied.

NEW PARADIGM IN EVENTS HOSTING Discover a world of meeting opportunities at Park Avenue Convention Centre with over 5,700 square feet in floor space for multi-functional conference and meeting space.

Strategically located in the heart of Changi Business Park, the Convention Centre has a unique circular layout with built-in operable walls, making it a flexible venue for different kind of events of up to 600 delegates. With the integration of Park Avenue Changi Hotel, our 251 well-appointed rooms and suites ensure that your guests’ needs are well taken care of.

Be it private events or corporate meetings, out team of professional staff will assure you a seamless event experience!

3 minutes walk to EXPO MRT Station

Doorstep

3 minutes by MRT 7 minutes by train

5 minutes walk to mall

For enquires, please contact (65) 6809 7288 or email parkavenue@uel.sg www.parkavenueintl.com 4 Changi Business Park Avenue 1, Singapore 486016

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TEAMBUILDING FEATURE

NEXT LEVEL TEAMBUILDING As employers look to cajole their staff towards higher productivity levels, many are turning to teambuilding activities to boost engagement and teamwork. HRM Asia sheds light on some of the quirky and unusual options available Kelvin Ong

kelvin.ong@hrmasia.com.sg

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Overcoming obstacles as a team at the Mega Adventure Park

ay the word “teambuilding” and images of cold function rooms, communication coaches, and generic icebreaker exercises may come to mind.

This traditional formula was once the only effective approach for building stronger bonds between employees, improving staff engagement and developing a more inclusive company culture. But not anymore.

“Companies have become bored of doing the same old classroom-based trust exercises and generic teambuilding games,” explains Gavin Barnes, Director of Corporate Development at Mega Adventure, an obstacle course-based theme park specialising in outdoor teambuilding sessions.

More than ever, having an enjoyable

time while nurturing cohesion has become the top priority for companies during group development programmes. And they are exploring new and innovative avenues to achieve these objectives.

“Clients are looking to expand comfort zones, encourage intelligent risk-taking in a safe environment, and break down barriers that may exist in a corporate environment,” says Barnes.

Steven Chung, head of events and programming at Sentosa Leisure Management, also notes that clients want to get out of the typical hotel ballroom setting for teambuilding events.

“The most successful and memorable events are the ones that do not feel like a day in the office,” he says. “So having fun is always one of their foremost criteria.”

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FEATURE

TEAMBUILDING

Elton Lee, CEO of Village Singapura, a teambuilding organiser that offers throwback role-playing activities, agrees that companies are now seeking a broader range of experiences.

“The trend is to look for activities that allow everyone to bond while having fun,” says Lee. “Employers want to see their employees smile and laugh during the exercise.”

Drama mama Lee reasons that clients are demanding more creative activities because employees have become more sophisticated and discerning.

“Customers don’t want to participate in the same activities twice,” he says.

Village Singapura transports participants back to 1930s’ Singapore through its innovative live role-playing games.

Although the skit-based games are fresh and fun, they do not compromise on collaboration and learning.

The company’s most popular activity is called “Village Drama Mama”, and it sees participants form teams and put together skits based on Singapore’s history.

First, participants have to compete against each other in yesteryear activities such as identifying Indian spices; learning Chinese paper-cutting; mastering Chapteh – a game where participants have to keep a weighted shuttlecock in the air using only their feet; and balancing stones.

Participants then form teams and use what they have learned in a group skit. Midway through the skit, teams

will encounter a surprise situation that threatens to disrupt their storyline.

Faced with this crisis, they have to stay in character and improvise as a team to stop the plot from being interrupted.

In another game, participants act as merchants, rickshaw pullers, or migrants who have just arrived on the island.

The Great Depression has struck and players have to find jobs and overcome challenges in order to survive.

As memorabilia, participants also take a group “retro-selfie” at the end of the exercises.

Lee says the activities are conducted at its Chinatown facility, a shophouse building cleverly modelled after a 1930s Malay “kampong” hut.

The company has worked with organisations including DBS Bank, Exxon Mobil, and the Ministry of Manpower since it opened its doors last year.

“We are seeing strong interest and have received many enquiries about our role-playing games because of their unique nature,” says Lee. Village Singapura also works closely with HR departments and employers to develop customised programmes that work with their individual budgets.

“We identify the issues they face as well as their organisational goals, and design an activity accordingly,” Lee shares.

Elevated experience Mega Adventure’s Barnes says his clients are specifically looking for teambuilding opportunities that offer a fresh and fun experience that also fosters knowledge-

Participants at Village Singapura sharing and team bonding.

“The majority of groups come to us to have fun, improve team cohesion, and to provide a platform for their team to relax and get to know each other better in a unique environment,” he says.

Mega Adventure does just that, taking teambuilding, literally, to another level.

Located at the top of Imbiah Hill on Sentosa, its large facility boasts three treetop obstacle courses, a free fall simulator, a rock climbing wall, and a 450-metre zip-line course.

“All these features that we offer on our grounds mean the majority of our programmes cannot be replicated elsewhere,” says Barnes.

One of Mega Adventure’s most popular activities is its very own “Adventure Race”.

“Several providers do have their own version of The Amazing Race (reality television competition),” he acknowledges. “However, ours is the only one that incorporates aerial activities (such as obstacle courses) at our park, beach activities, as well as other attractions on Sentosa Island.

“The option to include other locations on the island has proven to be a big pull for our race.”

Barnes says the race checkpoints and challenges are located near the main sights and attractions on Sentosa Island, including the Luge and Skyride, Madam Tussauds, and the Merlion statue.

After all the checkpoints and challenges have been cleared, teams finish the race by gliding down the zipline back at Mega Adventure Park.

Fun in the sun Barnes says the company’s other unique offering is its full-day outdoor

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TEAMBUILDING FEATURE

programme, which has been rapidly gaining popularity in recent years.

The programme combines all the amenities and features available at Mega Adventure, giving participants a full day in the sun, while having fun together as a team.

“Traditionally, full-day programmes have been half a day in a function room, followed by outdoor activities at our park,” Barnes says. “More recently though, groups have been requesting full-day outdoor programmes.”

“That’s because without fun, learning and development can become very stale,” he explains.

The company also recently started to incorporate more activities and games at checkpoints, emphasising cooperation between team members.

“Our activities keep people wondering about what to expect, and set out challenges that people must overcome as individuals and in teams,” shares Barnes.

“Teams that are able to relate to the lessons from these safe and controlled environments are able to take them back to work, apply them, and increase productivity.”

Mega Adventure also offers customised packages for companies that might have different needs.

“There is no one-size-fits-all approach to teambuilding, which is why all of our programmes are merely templates that can be moulded to fit the specific requirements of each team,” Barnes explains.

Sentosa Leisure Management, which oversees all operations on the island resort, also has its own corporate teambuilding package that promotes employee cohesiveness by merging the elements of fun and sun.

The programme, named “The Sentosa Imbiah Challenge”, incorporates a mix of challenges from television shows like Survivor, Fear Factor, and The Amazing Race. Participants have to work handin-hand to complete tasks at various stations all around the island.

Chung says the company talks to its clients first to get a clearer idea

Happy faces after a day of bonding and fun of participant demographics, before suggesting activities that may suit their requirements.

Increased engagement Companies around Singapore and Southeast Asia are becoming more and more aware of the benefits of nontraditional teambuilding activities.

“Companies are slowly realising that employees are their most valued assets,” Chung says. “Keeping them energised, entertained, and engaged not only boosts morale, but invariably enhances productivity, as it helps co-workers work better together.”

He says Sentosa’s teambuilding revenue has almost tripled in the last two years.

Lee concurs that there are significant positive effects that come from creative teambuilding activities.

“Unconventional activities are better able to leave an impact on their employees as the conventional ones may lead to disengaged participants who may have already experienced the same thing,” he suggests.

“Clients tell me that long after the session, their colleagues still talk about the role-playing games, like the time someone acted as Sir Stamford Raffles or as the funny lion in their skit,” Lee shares.

He adds that successful teambuilding also helps to retain top talent and reduce attrition rates, by reinforcing a close-knit culture and fun working environment.

“Well-designed teambuilding can help colleagues get to know each other, especially after a restructuring,” says Lee. “Business results are delivered as a result.”

Barnes agrees that creativity is often the major difference when it comes to teambuilding.

“In an age of high turnover, there is an emphasis on talent retention,” he explains. “It has been identified that an engaged workforce that has pride in their company and the environment at work will remain together, and perform exponentially more efficiently.”

He further adds that the advantages of customised corporate teambuilding programmes are multi-fold.

“The beauty of specialised corporate team building is that the benefits can be whatever the organiser wishes them to be,” he notes.

“The guaranteed benefits focus on team bonding, communication, and engagement; and programmes can be designed to include specific activities and challenges within each activity, to work towards previously outlined benefits.”

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PROFILE

MONTIGO RESORTS, NONGSA

A perfect corporate retreat...

Just 30 minutes from Singapore M

ontigo Resorts, Nongsa is located in a private enclave along the coast of Indonesia’s Batam Island; the resort is only 30-minutes from Singapore by sea and a stone’s throw from 18-hole golf courses, cultural and historical sites, major shopping malls and entertainment areas.

This tropical haven of 88 modern 2-bedroom villas and 23 3-bedroom luxury residences boast exciting activities, rejuvenating spa treatments, creative dining options and simply breathtaking sunsets over the South China Sea. At Montigo Resorts, Nongsa, you’re spoilt for choice. Meetings and events venues, delectable dining options, the Montigo Spa and a host of activities on and off the resort promise a most memorable experience for all.

Meetings and events Montigo Resorts, Nongsa is the ideal locale for business meetings, conferences, and retreats, with a spacious ballroom that accommodates up to 250 guests and two meeting rooms that are ideal for high-level discussions.

Montigo Resorts, Nongsa JL. Hang Lekir, Nongsa – Batam, Indonesia Tel: +65 65059381 Email: sales@montigoresorts.com Web: www.montigoresorts.com

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Spacious and comfortable meeting rooms at Montigo Resorts all feature natural daylight and boast modern equipment and technology to make your events a success.

A variety of venues can accommodate your meetings and events from boardroom discussions to dinner banquets.

The resort is also perfect for non-business events and gatherings, everything from class reunions to weddings and team-building activities.

Montigo Resorts, Nongsa, is truly a total package complete with a breathtaking environment, superb facilities, first-class service, an attentive staff and exceptional international and Asian cuisine.

Dining Delight in local, Asian and Western comfort foods such as traditional gadogado salad, club sandwich and deep-fried ice cream

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at TADD’S All-day-dining restaurant; or some of the freshest seafood at Pantai where you can feast on the best of the local catches, prepared with your favourite Indo-Chinese flavours. On weekends, TIIGO bar and beach club becomes the life of the party with sunset drinks, bar bites, sweeping sea views, a sizzling grill and live DJ sets.

If you’re looking for something extra special, Montigo’s chefs can organise a Private Dining experience at your villa or at a favourite spot around the resort. This one’s especially tailored – from an intimate dinner for two or an elaborate dinner for 10, every detail is only about you.

A stay at Montigo Resorts, Nongsa is incomplete without a visit to the Montigo Spa where traditional massage techniques, age-old knowhow, and homemade

scrubs using garden-fresh ingredients and speciallycreated oils are delivered in indigenous bamboo huts making such ultimate pampering one of the most unique spa experiences.

Sports and activities From tennis and yoga to fishing and cooking, golfing, and going on a jungle trek, magical boat ride or kampong bike trail, Montigo has got something exciting for everyone. With the Resort as the backdrop, you may enter a world of wonderment as you feed your curiosity and embark on a journey of a lifetime.

Work hard, play hard!

Montigo Resorts, Nongsa is the perfect backdrop to your next company retreat. Pack the trip with fun, engaging activities or take a more relaxed approach - either way your team will be sure to bond and get to know each other better. The best part? We’re giving you one of these exclusive offers for your retreat: Complimentary two hours tele-match activities.

Complimentary upgrade for all villas to the next villa category, subject to availability upon reservation.

Complimentary one coffee break with two snack items for your meeting.

30% off spa treatment (Not applicable for promotional items).

Complimentary one round of soft drink during lunch or dinner.

Complimentary 4-hour city tour, includes shopping mall or factory outlets.

To find out more, write to sales@montigoresorts.com or call us on +65 65 059 381.

Terms and conditions: Reservations are subject to availability | Valid from Sunday to Friday only | Not valid on eve of and on Singapore public holidays | May not be combined with other promotions.

for enquiries: Jl. Hang Lekir, Nongsa, Batam, Indonesia +65 65 337 337 info@montigoresorts.com A MEMBER OF KOP HOSPITALITY

#montigoresorts MONTIGORESORTS.COM

PROFILE

STAR CRUISES

Open up fresh horizons for your organisation!

A

s the leading cruise line in Asia-Pacific, Star Cruises not only brings holiday-makers cruising at its finest, but also provides perfect solutions for corporate needs. Break away from the conventional land-based venues like hotels and resorts, and discover what a dose of inspiring sun, sea and fresh air can do for your events.

Our world class fleet offers the perfect mix of business and recreational facilities, along with expert facilitation and trademark Asian hospitality to make your event

Call us now for group bookings at 6832 9841/42 (Mon – Fri, 9am – 5:30pm) or email corporatesales@starcruises.com Star Cruises 9 Penang Road #11-08 Park Mall Singapore 238459 Web: www.starcruises.com

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both successful and enjoyable.

Furthermore, our allinclusive packages – covering deluxe accommodation, inviting facilities, delectable cuisine, and more – give you more value for money and less hassles.

Part of the appeal of cruising lies in the allure of exciting destinations across Asia. From the pulsating cities to paradise-like islands, the diverse sights, sounds and flavours of the region await your discovery.

Be it for forging team spirit, hosting breakthrough meetings that are free from distractions, or as a reward for top performing staff, a Star Cruises getaway is simply a welcome experience and a getaway to remember.

Discover what corporate events at sea with Star Cruises can do to elevate your company to greater heights. Set sail today!

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ABOUT STAR CRUISES Star Cruises is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Genting Hong Kong, a leading global leisure, entertainment and hospitality corporation.

A pioneer in the Asia Pacific cruise industry, Star Cruises has been operating its fleet since 1993, taking on the bold initiative to grow the region as an international cruise destination with a fleet of six vessels including SuperStar Virgo, SuperStar Libra, SuperStar Gemini, SuperStar Aquarius, Star Pisces and The Taipan.

Star Cruises’ commitment in offering best-in-class services and facilities is reflected in a host of recognitions and accolades received over the years. These include being inducted into the prestigious Travel Trade Gazette’s “Travel Hall of Fame”for an eighth year in 2015 in recognition of winning “Best Cruise Operator in the Asia-Pacific” for 10 consecutive years. Star Cruises was also recently voted “Asia’s Leading Cruise Line” at the World Travel Awards for a fourth year in a row in 2015.

PROFILE

SERANGOON GARDENS COUNTRY CLUB

A suburban retreat

Kensington Ballroom: 400 – 500 pax

Whether for

Business or Pleasure, we have the

Perfect Venues for you

KTV Rooms: 8 – 10 pax

Beer Garden: 80 – 100 pax

Casuarina Room: 50 pax

Serangoon Gardens Country Club offers clients a quiet refuge complete with a variety of function rooms that are perfectly suited for any corporate or private event.

Conduct a workshop in our Casuarina Room, have a few drinks with your clients or colleagues in our Beer Garden or KTV Rooms or opt to have your company’s next dinner and dance in our Kensington Ballroom. From team building workshops to power lunches, whether for business or pleasure, we have the perfect venues for you.

To book your next event, call or email us today!

Tel: 6286 8888, 6398 5381, 6398 5365, 6398 5387 Email: banquetsales@sgcc.com.sg 22 Kensington Park Rd Singapore 557271 www.sgcc.com.sg

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estled within the historic suburbs of Serangoon and easily accessible via the expressway to the Central Business District, Serangoon Gardens Country Club offers guests a refuge away from the downtown city centre complete with a variety of corporate function rooms that are perfect for business events of any size.

You can choose from our wide selection of venues such as our Kensington Ballroom, which is the largest and can easily accommodate up to 500 people, or hold your next meeting in our fine dining restaurant, The Garden Grill.

We also offer an extensive range of food, and with our well trained chefs specialising in everything from French cuisine to local delights, you can be assured we offer something for everyone. Our offsite catering programme also gives the option of having us come to you.

In addition, we also boast three food and beverage outlets, a large outdoor deck overlooking our Olympic-sized swimming pool, karaoke rooms, a crossroads lounge

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as well as a dance and music lounge.

At Serangoon Gardens Country Club, we pride ourselves in offering guests a wide selection of venues that caters to their every need.

Enjoy great savings with Serangoon Gardens Country Club’s Dinner and Dance packages! Choose between a buffet or a Chinese sit-down dinner with a minimum of 50 people.

Package includes: • Complimentary usage of ballroom, dance floor and stage set-up • Exclusive Chinese dinner or special buffet dinner menu • Choice of entertainment, Karaoke or Disco • Complimentary 20-litre barrel of beer or 12 bottles of House Wines and free flow of coffee and tea • Complimentary use of sound system, LCD projectors and screen

Serangoon Gardens Country Club 22 Kensington Park Road, Serangoon Gardens Tel: 6286 8888 Email: banquetsales@sgcc.com.sg Web: www.sgcc.com.sg

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