Asia Outlook Issue 2 by Outlook Publishing

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dArE to drEAM

HolIstIc logIstIcs

Inside Lian Beng

Pan Asia Logistics targets Asia growth

Into AFrIcA

PowErIng succEss 36

Asia Projects Engineering Pte Ltd

Cardno seeks expansion

AsIA outook IssuE 02

nEws | AssuntA HosPItAl | olYMPus scAndAl | BrucE lEE | MYAnMAr tElEcoMs

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W E L C O M E They’re loving it Welcome to the July/ August issue of Asia Outlook, this month we’ve a number of treats for you... and we hope you aren’t reading this hungry. On page 14, we delve inside McThai, Thailand’s sole McDonald’s franchisee. It is a fast growing business and since 2006 its evolution has been spearheaded by Hester Chew, Chairman of Executive Committee and CEO. Mr Chew has extensive experience in the food service industry and upon joining McThai quickly introduced some new ideas. He knew exactly what he wanted - the introduction of separate McCafé premium coffee counters to most of the McDonald’s restaurants has been one of his most highly successful moves. You can read the full interview with Mr Chew inside. If you find you’re still hungry for more we also look at Lian Beng’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Lian Beng Construction, the group’s chief revenue driver, look again at the Olympus scandal following news three former execs connected with the mass fraud received fairly lenient suspended sentences, and we look at the growth story behind holistic logistics provider Pan Asia Logistics, the preferred air and ocean freight forwarder and logistics partner for many top brands in the East Asian market. Ian Armitage There is plenty more inside. Editor, Outlook Publishing Enjoy the magazine.

Editorial

Editor: Ian Armitage ian.armitage@outlookpublishing.com Production Manager: Clare Durrant clare.durrant@outlookpublishing.com

Business

Sales Director: Nick Norris nick.norris@outlookpublishing.com Sales: Eddie Clinton eddie.clinton@outlookpublishing.com Sales: Donovan Smith donovan.smith@outlookpublishing.com Projects Director: James Mitchell james.mitchell@outlookpublishing.com Project Managers: Debbie Clark debbie.clark@outlookpublishing.com Sheridan Halls sheridan.halls@outlookpublishing.com Stuart Shirra stuart.shirra@outlookpublishing.com Eleanor Watson eleanor.watson@outlookpublishing.com

Accounts Financial Administrator: Abby Nightingale Suzanne Welsh accounts@outlookpublishing.com Office Administrator: Daniel George daniel.george@outlookpublishing.com Magazine Design: Optic Juice Ltd Images: Getty Digital & IT: Hamit Saka Helpdesk: James LeMay

Outlook Publishing Managing Director Ben Weaver ben.weaver@outlookpublishing.com Chairman Mark Weaver Contact Asia Outlook / UK 22 Wensum Street, Norwich, UK, NR3 1HY Sales: +44 (0) 1603 559 551 Editorial: +44 (0) 1603 559 144 Fax: +44 (0) 1603 559 553 Subscriptions Tel: +44 (0)1603 559 144 ian.armitage@outlookpublishing.com

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C O N t E N t S

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In this issue of Asia Outlook... 06

NEWs All the latest news from across Asia

tElECOMs

Myanmar calling

Telenor and Ooredoo to roll out and operate telecommunications networks in the country

EnErgY Focus POWERINg suCCEss With over 40 years experience, Asia Projects Engineering Pte Ltd has become one of southeast Asia’s most trusted engineering companies

MInIng Focus

BusINEss

guilty?

Japanese court has handed suspended sentences to three ex-Olympus execs accused of engineering accounting fraud

suPPlY cHAIn Focus

C u lt u R E

Bruce lee exhibition to hit Hong Kong

40 years after the kung fu legend’s death a new exhibition will showcase his life

Food And drInk Focus MCtHAI Interview with Hester Chew, Chairman of Executive Committee and CEO of McThai, Thailand’s sole McDonald’s franchisee

constructIon Fo cus

DARE tO DREAM It pays to dream big and dream big is what Lian Beng has done

INtO AFRICA: CARDNO s E E K s E X PA N s I O N Africa is undergoing a period of unprecedented economic growth

PA N A s I A lO g I s t I C s The preferred air and ocean freight forwarder and logistics partner for many top brands in the East Asian market

HEAltHcArE Focus

54 58

tHE HEARt AND ARt OF CARE Assunta Hospital is a pioneering private healthcare provider in Malaysia EVENts Asia’s biggest upcoming events

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N E W S N ew s

Pakistan gets $5.3bn IMF bailout Pakistan and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) have reached a provisional agreement on a bailout of at least $5.3 billion that aims to boost its flagging economy and low foreign exchange reserves. The three-year loan deal was announced by Pakistan Finance Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar and IMF mission chief Jeffrey Franks and will top up the central bank’s reserves and give the government time to cut its budget deficit, deal with problems in its energy sector, and increase tax collection. Pakistan agreed to cut spending and pledged to raise more money through privatisation.

“Pakistan faces a challenging economic outlook, compounded by an uncertain global and regional environment. Macroeconomic imbalances have combined with longstanding structural problems, particularly in the energy sector, to sap the country’s growth potential.

B u s ine s s

Baby formula prices cut as China launches probe Nestle and Danone have announced plans to cut prices of some of their infant milk formula products in China after Beijing announced a probe into alleged price fixing by foreign infant milk makers. Nestle is cutting prices by as much as 20 percent and its Wyeth Nutrition unit confirmed an investigation, which has been reported by state media, and pledged to “immediately” cut prices on some formula products. “Wyeth Nutrition has always respected and been willing to abide by China’s laws and regulations and is actively cooperating with the anti-monopoly investigation into the company,” it said. A day earlier it was widely reported that China’s National Development Reform Commission had launched a probe of foreign baby formula makers. Companies under scrutiny include Nestle, Danone, Mead Johnson Nutrition, Abbott Laboratories and Dutch firm Royal FrieslandCampina which produces the Friso brand.

Growth has only averaged three percent over the past few years, well below that needed to provide jobs for the rising labour force and to reduce poverty,” the IMF noted in its announcement of the agreement. “A determined effort is required to improve mediumterm growth and move toward sustainable fiscal and external positions,” it added. The $5.3 billion loan will have an interest rate of roughly three percent. It will be repaid over 10 years after an initial grace period of four years. The IMF still needs to obtain approval from its executive board for the new agreement, which is expected in September.

B u s ine s s

China launches EU wine probe China has launched antidumping and anti-subsidy investigations into wines imported from the European Union. In a statement on its website, China’s Ministry of Commerce said the investigations will probe EU wine subsidies and their impact on the country’s wine industry. They are due to last one year, but may be extended by six months, and will abide by World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules. “The Ministry of Commerce will follow the principles of openness, fairness and transparency, fully respect all parties’ legal rights, and make a fair ruling based on objective fact and the relevant laws and regulations,” the Ministry said. Tensions between China and the EU have been escalating lately, with the EU imposing an average tariff of 11.8 percent on Chinese solar panel imports. China has become the biggest importer of Bordeaux wines.

go to www.asiAoutlookmag.com/news for all of the latest news from asia

T ra v el

Qantas welcomes new investor to Jetstar Hong Kong

Hong Kong-based shipping and property giant Shun Tak Holdings, founded by Macau casino tycoon Stanley Ho, has bought a 33.3 percent stake in new budget airline Jetstar Hong Kong. The $66 million deal gives Shun Tak an equal share in the low-cost carrier, a joint venture involving Qantas and China Eastern Airlines that plans launch this year flying to China, Japan, South Korea and Southeast Asia. In a statement to the Australian stock market Qantas chief Alan Joyce said, “This adds to the strategic partnerships we have across Asia with companies that have chosen to invest in the Jetstar brand. “There is clear potential for a local low-cost carrier in Hong Kong to stimulate new travel demand, particularly given the proximity to mainland China and the ability to connect with existing parts of the Jetstar network,” he added. Jetstar Hong Kong is still awaiting approval from regulators and Hong Kong has tough rules for foreign-owned firms looking to set up locally. Qantas owns the Jetstar brand and has other joint ventures in Japan, Singapore and Vietnam. Shun Tak was established by Stanley Ho in 1972, and owns many luxury hotels in Macau as well as interests in some of that city’s casinos.

N ew s

Thousands march for HK democracy Tens of thousands of people braved typhoon rains to take part in an annual pro-democracy rally demanding China honour promises to hold fully democratic elections in 2017. Protesters marched from Victoria Park to the Central district and criticised the leadership of the current chief executive, CY Leung who was appointed by a pro-Beijing committee last July. “The main goal of the rally is to push through for genuine democracy and to ask for Leung Chun-ying to step down,” Jackie Hung of the Civil Human Rights Front, which organises the annual march, told AFP.

Speaking at a ceremony earlier in the day, Mr Leung said that the Hong Kong government was committed to introducing full democracy, explaining that implementing universal suffrage was a “major task”. He gave no timetable for public consultations. It is 16 years since the former British colony’s handover to China.

B u s ine s s

Sinopec buys $1.5bn stake in Angola oil field Sinopec, also known as China Petrochemical Corporation, has agreed a deal to buy U.S. firm Marathon Oil Corporation’s stake in an Angolan oil and gas field. Sinpoec will pay $1.52 billion for Marathon’s 10 percent stake in Block 31. In a statement Marathon said its “subsidiary, Marathon International Oil Angola Block 31 Limited, has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its 10 percent working interest in the Production Sharing Contract and Joint Operating Agreement in Block 31 offshore Angola to SSI Thirty-One Limited (Sonangol Sinopec International)”. “This transaction highlights the shareholder value we have created through exploration success in Angola, as well as our commitment to financial discipline and efforts to profitably grow the Company,” said Clarence P. Cazalot, Jr., Marathon Oil Chairman, President and CEO. “We expect to use the proceeds from this sale to repurchase shares, strengthen the balance sheet and for general corporate purposes.” The deal is subject to approval by Chinese and Angolan governments.

go to www.asiaoutlookmag.com/news for all of the latest news from asia

M y a N M a R

Telenor and Ooredoo win Myanmar telecoms licences It is the world’s largest untapped mobile phone market and Mynamar’s Telecommunications Operator Tender Evaluation and selection Committee has awarded Telenor and Ooredoo tenders to roll out and operate telecommunications networks in the country. Writer Ian Armitage

e here at Asia Outlook first heard the news that Norway’s Telenor Mobile Communications and Qatar Telecom, now called Ooredoo, had each won one of two highly coveted tenders to roll out and operator Myanmar’s telecommunications networks from an email release sent to our office by African telecoms giant MTN, throwing in the towel. It was eagerly awaited news – something we’ve covered on our site for several months. MTN said it was “disappointed” but that the country remained an attractive

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market and that it would review “other options as they became available”. “In keeping with our strategy to continue exploring and evaluating suitable opportunities for further growth in developing countries, MTN still considers Myanmar an attractive market. To this end, we will review other options as they become available, and make a decision after the appropriate due consideration,” it said. The MTN Consortium, which included Myanmar-based Amara Communications and M1 Telecom Limited, had competed with 11 other bidders for the opportunity to develop the currently underdeveloped network in the nation.

t elecoms

The licences were awarded by the Telecommunications Operator Tender Evaluation and Selection Committee – which according to some reports is estimated to be worth about US$2 billion – and under the deal Telenor and Ooredoo will establish a mobile phone infrastructure in formerly the juntaruled country and then operate the system for an initial period of 15 years. Myanmar said both applicants had made binding commitments regarding the launch and roll out of services, including a minimum of 75 percent of geographic coverage for each region and state for voice calls five years after the effective licence date. “We are delighted that Telenor is a winning bidder in what was a highly competitive telecommunications licence tender in Myanmar,” said Jon Fredrik Baksaas, President and CEO of Telenor Group. “We thank the government for giving Telenor the opportunity to support the country in achieving its goals, and for the open and efficient bidding process. Myanmar will be an important pillar in our growth strategy and we are fully committed to responsibly leverage our group competencies to provide access to mobile communications services for the people of Myanmar. We now look forward to working with the authorities in Myanmar on the final steps in the licence process.” Sigve Brekke, Executive Vice President and the Head of Telenor Asia, was equally excited, adding that Telenor was “uniquely placed to support the development of a thriving and vibrant telecommunications sector in Myanmar”. “We have established leading mobile operations in five dynamic Asian markets and today’s announcement underscores the continued success of Telenor’s strategy of delivering accessible and affordable mobile communications services across the region,” he said. “We are looking forward to working

with the government and people of Myanmar in developing the country’s telecommunication industry, a sector that will play a key role in Myanmar’s socioeconomic development.” Telenor will build a “state-of-the-art mobile network” using HSPA and LTE-ready technologies “to match the sophistication of leading networks around the world”, and plans to achieve “nationwide coverage” within five years. A full range of mobile services – both voice and data – will be commercially launched as the “initial offering”, anticipated to happen in 2014, it said, while the introduction of telecommunication services “will drive social development and economic growth for the country”. And that is precisely the point – this is all part of efforts by the long-isolated nation to use technology to spur economic development. Myanmar has world’s largest untapped mobile phone market and less than ten percent of country’s population have mobile phones (it is less connected than North Korea!). Perhaps ambitiously, the government hopes it will be able to push mobile phone usage rates to 80 percent within three years. And that’s why the likes of MTN, Vodafone and everyone else submitted bids – it had them salivating. Some however thought the price was too high and Vodafone Group Plc and China Mobile Ltd dropped their joint bid for a license, saying it did not meet their “internal investment criteria.” The government of President Thein Sein has promised political and economic reforms and Telenor at least

Telenor will build a “state-ofthe-art mobile network” using HSPA and LTE-ready technologies “to match the sophistication of leading networks around the world”, and plans to achieve “nationwide coverage” within five years.

seem happy. But it isn’t that easy. Myanmar faces some development challenges – poor infrastructure and electricity shortages the highest profile – while investors preparing to invest billions of dollars are rightly nervous about a number of issues, least of which being how regulation will develop. In risk, there is profit and opportunity, and these licences are seen as one of the most lucrative for foreign companies since Myanmar emerged from dictatorship (and the government insists a new industry regulator will take over within the next few years). Will it be a success? Time will tell.

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S u S P E N D E D

J a i L

S E N t E N C E S

F O R

E X - O L y M P u S

E X E C S

guilty? Earlier this month a Japanese court handed suspended sentences to three former Olympus executives accused of engineering accounting fraud at the camera and medical equipment maker. Writer Ian Armitage

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tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s April 2011. Japanese camera-maker Olympus has appointed its first foreign president, Michael Woodford, a Brit and 30-year company veteran who worked his way up entirely through the ranks of the Nikkei-listed company. He came with a good pedigree and fantastic past performance â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for example, the surgical equipment businesses that he presided over performed spectacularly; about $3.9 billion a year in sales from 2008 to 2010, generating more than $800 million a year in profit. six months later though Woodford was sacked. His crime? Questioning the

B u S i N E S S

violation of the financial Instruments and Exchange Act. All three had admitted to hiding losses in september last year. Mr kikukawa and Mr Yamada were given three-year sentences and Mr Mori a two-and-a-half-year sentence. former Olympus presidents Masatoshi kishimoto and Toshiro shimoyama were beyond the reach of the court, as the statute of limitations on their actions had long-expired. The rather light sentences are unlikely to sit well with those who lost significant sums as Olympus’ stock plummeted in the wake of the scandal (In the months after the news broke, it wiped almost 80 percent of its share values, dragging the company’s price on the Tokyo stock Exchange from 2,526 yen to as low as just 420 yen by the time the bottom was reached). Olympus has also paid some large fines for its role in the fraud.

Hiding losses

so what actually happened? The story began when Olympus bought three tiny, profitless companies that had little to do with its core business and seemed unlikely ever to make a decent return (a cosmetics company, a maker of plastic containers and a firm’s chairman, Tsuyoshi Kikukawa, waste-disposal business) in 2008 for about billions worth of what he a reported $800 million. By the end of considered to be suspiciously large the financial year, it had written down payments related to acquisitions. three-quarters of their value. It blew the lid on one of the biggest It also paid a $687 million “advisory financial frauds in Japan’s history and fee” relating to its inflated purchase a cover-up of losses dating back to of British medical-devices firm Gyrus in the 1990s. 2008. The fee was more than 30 percent The dust has largely settled now and of the purchase price and another in earlier this month the executives accused New York; both now defunct. of engineering the massive accounting When Mr Woodford learned of it, fraud were handed suspended sentences he sought answers from the firm’s by a Japanese court. chairman, Tsuyoshi kikukawa; to Mr kikukawa, former executive no avail. vice-president Hisashi Mori and He was later sacked but in former auditing officer Hideo Yamada November 2011 Olympus came clean were arrested in february last year and confessed that the deals were and later indicted on suspected designed to hide losses on securities

dating back to the 1990s. In other words, it admitted a fraudulent attempt to cover up previous bad investments by a series of Olympus presidents and the revelation did little to dispel the belief that the core management at Olympus was, an investigation put it “rotten and those around them were contaminated”. It is still unclear what actually happened to the money and some reports have linked the Olympus funds to Japanese organised crime.

Recovery road

Has Olympus since bounced back? Well, not quite, but there have been signs that the firm may be recovering from the scandal. It has announced a major overhaul, entered into an alliance with electronics giant sony to try to boost its share of the global medical equipment market, and has returned to profit. Its shares have also recovered most of their losses. Just a week after guilty verdicts and suspended sentences, Olympus issued a 118 billion yen in a new share issue, with Prime Minister shinzo Abe’s economic stimulus measures boosting global appetite for Japanese shares. Last year Olympus raised 50 billion yen through a third-party allocation of shares to business partner sony. It will use the bulk of the funds it is raising to bolster its medical business, including 19.7 billion yen to build three medical equipment factories. Two will be located in fukushima prefecture, the site of the 2011 nuclear disaster, the Reuters news agency said. But we might not have heard the end of it all. Olympus has pending cases against 19 individuals, together seeking some us$165 million in damages. kikukawa, Mori, and Yamada are all included among their number, and all three men may yet face a significant consequence for their actions in the case.

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B R u C E

L E E

E X h i B i t i O N

Bruce Lee exhibition to hit Hong Kong kung fu legend Bruce Lee once said the key to immortality is living a life worth remembering. A new exhibition in Hong kong, where Lee spent his childhood and became a martial arts film star, is being launched to celebrate the man and commemorate the 40th anniversary of his death. Writer Ian Armitage

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orty years after his death, a new exhibition in Hong kong is being launched to celebrate the life and achievements of its most famous son, Bruce Lee. The kung fu legend, poet, a cha cha champion, and record-breaking filmmaker was born in San Francisco and spent his childhood in what is now the special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China. Lee died on 20 July, 1973, from a cerebral oedema, a fatal build up of fluid on the brain. He was just 32 and the father of two young children with his wife Linda Lee Cadwell. “Bruce Lee: kung fu. Art. Life” opens on July 20 at the Hong kong Heritage Museum and will feature more than 600 Lee-related items, including more than 400 from the Bruce Lee foundation – the largest number of artefacts the foundation has ever lent out – in a multimedia exhibition. It will celebrate Bruce Lee as “the pride of Hong kong”. “The legend of Bruce Lee’s life is intertwined with his confidence

C u L t u R E

Handbill of the ﬁlm The Way of the Dragon, 1972 Collection of Mr Bey Logan Courtesy of the Hong Kong Heritage Museum

and charisma as well as a personal background that married East and West,” the Hong kong Heritage Museum says. “Bruce Lee passed away 40 years ago, but his spirit lives on. In collaboration with the Bruce Lee foundation of the u.s., the Hong kong Heritage Museum has gathered together more than 600 invaluable items of Bruce Lee memorabilia from local and overseas collectors to create an exhibition that looks at Bruce Lee not only as a film star and martial artist, but also as a cultural phenomenon from a more comprehensive, indepth and independent perspective. visitors will be able to gain a greater insight into his achievements and contributions as well as his significance in popular culture, as the exhibition takes a new angle in presenting the legend of Bruce Lee.” Among the items on show are his iconic yellow onesie, footage from Lee’s eight classic films including “The Big Boss,” “fist of fury,” “The Way of the Dragon,” “Enter the Dragon” and “game of Death”, the first American magazine cover

featuring Lee and the notebook he kept featuring 108 different cha cha dance steps. Lee, who founded his own martial arts system, Jeet kune Do, won Hong kong’s Cha Cha Championship in 1958. The exhibition will recreate scenes from his movies, his gym and his study, and will also house a special collector series showcasing various items from around the world. The first collection will feature almost 100 items relating to the Tv series “The green Hornet” from u.s. collector Perry Lee. The Hong Kong filmmakers association has also created a 75 minute documentary on Bruce Lee’s life to be shown at the exhibition, titled “The Brilliant Life of Bruce Lee,” which will be screened in the museum. Silver Cheung, a local film art director, will be the art director for the exhibition, while artist Chu Tat-shing has created a 3.5-metre karate kicking sculpture especially for the show and visual animator artist Shannon Ma will show offer her hologram display of Lee in full flow with his nunchaku. The organisers are planning to employ new innovative and interactive media including a dedicated website, various smartphone apps and social media to promote the exhibition. A facebook fan page entitled “visit Hk Museum” will be set up and will include guided day tour video, public engagement campaign, quotes, interviews, promotional videos and exhibition materials. The exhibition will run alongside other Bruce Lee programmes organised by the museum, the first of which has the theme “The Bruce Lee that Hong kong knew”.

Bruce Lee’s daughter shannon Lee will start the programme with a gallery talk. “To tie in with the five-year exhibition, the Hong kong Heritage Museum will organise a series of education and extension programmes with different themes and to be carried out in phases,” said Mrs Betty fung from Hong kong’s Leisure and Cultural services Department, announcing the exhibition. This year is also the 40th anniversary of Bruce Lee’s most famous film, Enter The Dragon, released months after his death, bringing him international, posthumous, acclaim.

A TV guide published in the US in 1966. Bruce Lee’s ﬁrst cover appearance in a US local magazine Collection of Mr Perry Lee of Seattle, Washington, US Courtesy of the Hong Kong Heritage Museum

Bruce lee: kung Fu. Art. life, July 20, 2013-2018; Hong kong Heritage Museum, 1 Man lam rd., sha tin, Hong kong; +852 2180 8188; Hk$10 including ticket to the documentary; free admission on wednesday; open Monday to sunday, 10 a.m.6p.m. (weekdays) and 10 a.m.-7p.m. (weekend and public holidays). www.heritagemuseum.gov.hk

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M C t h a i

lovin’ tHEy’RE

Asia Outlook talks to Hester Chew, Chairman of Executive Committee and CEO of McThai, Thailand’s sole McDonald’s franchisee. Writer Ian Armitage Project manager Eleanor Watson

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F O O D

a N D

D R i N K

’ it cDonald’s sells more than 75 hamburgers every second and its famous golden arches are recognised by millions around the globe. The quick service restaurant chain has 34,000 restaurants in 119 countries. What’s its secret? McDonald’s has mastered the market with localisation. Nowhere is this truer than Thailand, where it has 183 restaurants, serving eight million customers per month.

“We do have localised items on the menu,” says Hester Chew, Chairman of Executive Committee and CEO of McThai, the sole McDonald’s franchisee in the country. “We have items that are specific to Thailand like the samurai Pork Burger, the spicy McWings and the spicy Chicken Teriyaki and Rice. “That is absolutely important; you have to appeal to your market.” Although some items are localised, McThai’s core products are the same

– and of the same quality – as you would find in any McDonald’s globally. “We have global supply system. Our french fries are from the u.s., our cheese is from New Zealand and in the last couple of months have been importing beef from Australia. “McDonald’s look at the regional supply system to see who has the best ingredients, quality and price to match the product and we work on a system of delivery.” Continued

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M cT h a i

Mr Chew has extensive experience in the food service industry and upon joining McThai quickly introduced some new ideas. He knew exactly what he wanted the introduction of separate McCafé premium coffee counters to most of the McDonald’s restaurants has been one of his most highly successful moves. “When we came in, we looked at the fundamentals,” Mr Chew says. “In the first six months we looked at staffing, promoted some from within, brought in new blood into the organisation and we repositioned incentive schemes and the way we look at the business in terms of our customer service, the way our restaurants look, how we were positioned, what consumers wanted

Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC)

“I

t’s all about the bottom line”. There are few people, whether in the private or public sectors, who haven’t heard that phrase. But in modern business, companies that want to achieve long-term success must consider what is known as the triple bottom line: Economic, Environmental and Social.

RMHC originated in the U.S. in 1974 and RMHC Thailand was established in 2001 with the same mission: to create, find and support programmes that directly improve the health and well-being of children. RMHC Thailand is currently running three core programmes:

Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) has been McDonald’s “Charity of Choice” for almost 40 years and is its way of positively impacting all three aspects of the triple bottom line.

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The Ronald McDonald Kids Room. Since the inauguration of RMHC, 28 kids rooms have been built. The Ronald McDonald Care Mobile (RMCM). Through partnerships, over 40,000 children have received free

vision screening and more than 12,000 pairs of eyeglasses were provided free-of-charge. Ronald McDonald House (RMH). From the opening day in June 2011, the RMH at Queen Sirikit National Institute of Child Health has helped more than 1,900 families. Beyond monetary support, McDonald’s involvement also includes: Placing RMHC donation boxes in participating restaurants

Hosting fundraising events such as McHappy Day and the Annual Charity Bowling Tournament. Providing opportunities for employees and stakeholders to volunteer and participate at RMHC events. Connecting and engaging suppliers with RMHC programmes. “CSR is not a promotion but a commitment to our society,” says Chew. To learn more visit www.rmhc.or.th.

M cT h a i

OMD (Thailand) We are an integrated communications agency delivering media and marketing solutions globally. Ensuring that OMD (Thailand) has the most strategic, analytical, innovative, energetic and genuine people is priority one. In 2011 OMD (Thailand) was awarded Winner of Media Planner of The Year for South East Asia by Campaign Asia. In 2012, clients and industry judges for Campaign Asia made OMD (Thailand) Gold Winner, Media Agency of The Year (Thailand). We work with a diverse group of more than 25 clients and over 70 influential and iconic brands, We enjoy strong and long-term partnerships with them, some dating back as far as our inception, and we are proud to be able to help each and every one of our clients to achieve their business goals now and into the future Tel +66 2 256-9890 Email Contact-Th@omd.com

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and the menu items we had – basic areas. We retrained managers to look at restaurant level P&L and it was about going back to basics and good, well formulated planning.” The first McDonald’s restaurant in Thailand was opened in 1985. Things have changed a lot since Mr Chew came into the business. “Today, we are in a much healthier state,” he says. “Things have gone from good to better. We have a steady business. We’ve grown from 93 restaurants in 2006 and we will be at 200 restaurants by year end. I think the growth has been good.” One of the key changes is the way its restaurants look and McThai has spent a lot of time and resources on

remodelling them, based on the allegro concept that has seen new lighting and decor in the restaurants, inducing a “more urban edge”. “We wanted to push our McDonald’s stores from being traditional quick service restaurants into lifestyle restaurants,” Mr Chew says. “In terms of the look and feel it is about colours, and in terms of seating, we have a range of seats – sofas and cushions etc. We make the restaurants

as welcoming as possible but with an urban edge. Up to about two and a half years ago we used what we called the millennium concept. Last year we started using allegro, which is what McDonald’s has been using across the region. 90-odd percent have switched to the new look which is much more towards a lifestyle restaurant.” In 2010, McThai introduced the concept of “Drive Thru” quick service restaurants, another successful venture. “Our Drive Thrus are ideally situated and, as well as a fast take-away service, they have lots of convenience. Convenience is very important. In an area like Bangkok it is key. “We have 43 Drive Thrus and we should have 50 by year end. “I think our breakfast plays an important part here Continued

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“The employer generally gets the employees he deserves.” Walter Raleigh, 1554-1618

OMD (Thailand) wishes to congratulate Mr.Hester Chew and the amazing team at McThai for winning the 2013 Best of the Best Employer in Thailand from Aon Hewitt.

The talent eco-system created by McThai incorporates: • engagement • training • empowerment • company culture • a deeply honed philosophy that serves a model for managing and nurturing people.

OMD (Thailand) is proud to partner with McThai and be a part of the incredible teamwork which exemplifies the character of the people and iconic Brand; McDonald’s.

M cT h a i

Coffee works

e think it’s no accident CoffeeWORKS is one of Thailand’s leading coffee roasters. Since opening our doors CoffeeWORKS has been a key source in Thailand for authentic imported origins and Arabica coffees from Thailand’s northern provinces. Prior to building CoffeeWORKS we worked in the US west coast coffee market when the specialist coffee shop business model was still populated by less than a dozen storefronts. Moreover since founding CoffeeWORKS, we have formed significant industry relationships throughout the birthplace of espresso – Italy. Thus, we have absorbed a unique mix of US and European coffee industry experiences that underpin our mission to be the most advanced knowledge based coffee roaster in Asia. At CoffeeWORKS the bean is the boss. Tel +662 425 1395

www.coffeeworks.co.th

too – car use and traffic in Bangkok is increasing so they will come out, have a quick breakfast and takeaway at the window and move on with their daily lives. The majority of our sales of breakfasts are in or through our Drive Thru restaurants and over a fifth of our business is breakfast in the morning. “Those convenience factors are key – location and plenty of large spaces and parking. “The convenience is what we look at.” Other milestones achieved by Mr Chew include taking McDonald’s 24hour in 2007 and bringing in delivery 24 hours a day in Thailand. “Delivery is a popular service in Asia, not just Thailand. You’ll find similar services in Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines and Indonesia. It is very popular in Asia. “Our delivery is through motorbikes. That gets through the

traffic,” Mr Chew says. McThai’s vision is to be the quick service restaurant of choice in Thailand, growing profitably and have 500 points of distribution, including McCafé and Dessert Centre, by 2015. Of course a company is nothing without its people; McThai and Mr Chew were quick to realise that. “We offer a caring work environment, develop our people and empower them to make a difference at work, at home and in Thai community. We have our corporate culture called “STEPUP” which has become the everyday working culture of McThai. Our strong corporate culture creates high engagement and helps in driving the company’s strong values. With the earlier mentioned factors, McThai has recognised as Best of the Best Employers in Thailand and Regional Accredited Best

Employers in APAC in 2013.” STEPUP comprises S – Sanook at work, meaning happy staff having fun (Sanook) and being enthusiastic about their work. T – Team to Win, meaning all the team sharing objectives and having trust and confidence in every person’s contribution. E – Exceed Customer Expectations, understanding and then exceeding customers’ expectations. P- People, supporting the development of staff and mutually praising success. U – Ultimate Ownership, working as if staff owned the business, daring to solve problems creatively. And P – Passion to Win, having dedication and hunger for success to be the leader. It’s paid off. McThai has been recognised as Best of the Best employers in Thailand and Regional Accredited Best Employers in APAC in 2013. The award was issued by AON Hewitt and Sasin Graduate Institute of Business Continued

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Congratulations for the success of McDonaldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in Thailand. We are proud to be part of their success

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Administration Chulalongkorn University, who looked at employment practices at 182 leading companies in Thailand. McThai was also recognised as Best Employer in Thailand and in APAC in 2011. “I am happy and proud that McDonald’s Thailand has been recognised in this way because these awards reflect our employees’ trust and engagement towards the company, their praise for the company, and their dedication for it to achieve success, consistent with our management policies which resulted in doubledigit sales growth indicating business success,” Mr Chew says. And the future is bright. “For us it is working on internal processes and that is obviously ongoing. Customer service is another area of continual improvement and you never stop on that,” Mr Chew explains. “I think we have focused very well on our people development and that has been important for us as a business and in the way we have since performed. We will continue that. It means we offer a value proposition. “I think also in the next couple of years

CHAROEN POKPHAND FOODS (CPF) Vertical integration, fully traceability, and food safety have made CPF raw materials the core of the world’s leading food brands since 1978. Our 30 years of know-how, and our embrace of green and sustainable technologies, will drive our CP brand products into the future. Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CPF) is the world’s leading vertically-integrated aquaculture, livestock, and food company. CPF products are distributed under CP and numerous other well-known brands worldwide. Tel +66 (0) 2692 2300 Email info@cpbrand.com

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Kim Chua Group

K we will continue to grow our business and see how we can be relevant to our consumers. For example, in the Provinces of Thailand it is very different to the major metropolitan areas like Bangkok. You can’t approach Provinces in the same way. We will see how we can be relevant there. “Having availability of chicken products is also important for us.” For the future, Mr Chew would like the Thai government to drive the economy. That would attract foreign investment and create jobs in the country. “That is always important,” he says. “But generally am I optimistic? Yes. There are plenty of opportunities and lots of growth potential. I don’t have a time to put to this but I believe Thailand can have more than 400 McDonald’s restaurants down the road, on a long term horizon. “For future engagement, technology will be important – whether it is cashless payment, mobile apps or the internet. All of that will come much more into play in the next six to nine months.” As for key success factors, Mr Chew stresses: “The McDonald’s business is a people business, providing food and beverage services in its restaurants as well as home delivery. Therefore, we give top priority to our people, as it is they who deliver happiness and satisfaction to our customers. That is the main engine of our business.” To learn more visit www.mcthai.co.th.

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im Chua Group is committed to becoming a leader in aesthetically pleasing food products by applying the culinary arts and sciences to meticulously create and select the finestquality premium brands from around the world. Our connoisseurship, knowledge and understanding of authentic flavors, combined with high level of production technology and standards, have made Kim Chua Group a center for innovative and delightful foods that create “pleasure for your taste”. KCG has always believed in working towards the mutual success of our company, business partners and customers. This win-win philosophy and honesty in our dealings has been the key to our company’s success for more than 55 years. This philosophy will continue to be our top priority going forward to meeting our goal of sustainable growth. KCG’s technological exchange and adoption with international counterparts has helped drive the company to be a leader in the Thailand dairy product industry. The constant interaction and visits between the technical personnel, food technologists and product research and development teams of KCG and our partners worldwide has helped us meet our objective of creating quality, innovative products that satisfy the requirements of our customers. As an industrial leader in producing premium food products, KCG highly values corporate social responsibility and preservation of natural resource. We constantly participate in social contribution activities in order to improve the quality of life to the society where we do business. Tel +662 332 8040 7

www.kimchuagroup.com

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Happiness from KCG for more than 55 years We deliver products to fulfill your taste

Distributed by Kim Chua Group Co., Ltd. 3059, 3059/ 1-3 Sukhumvit Rd. Bangjak Prakanong Bangkok 10260. Thailand

Tel +662-332-8040-7 Fax +662-331-6891 www.kimchuagroup.com

CPF is the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading integrated aquaculture, livestock, and food company

For all sales please contact: C.P. Merchandising Company Limited Tel: +66 (0) 2784 9000 Email: info@cpbrand.com To learn more about our company, visit www.cpfworldwide.com

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Dare to

dream It pays to dream big. And dream big is what Lian Beng has done. Within the first four months of 2013, it has secured six construction projects worth about s$750 million, taking its orderbook to record highs. Construction Director Jeffrey Teo tells us more. Writer Ian Armitage Project manager James Mitchell

n 1978, Ong Pang Aik joined his father to help run the family business. At the time, the company, Lian Beng, was a civil engineering sub-contractor. Mr Ong wanted more. He wanted to expand. It was his dream and a lot can be said for the power of the dream – he helped grow Lian Beng from a sub-contractor that took on small-scale civil engineering a to a Building and Construction Authority grade A1 main contractor, and subsequently to an sgX-listed company with close to $250 million in market capitalisation and an annual turnover of close to $450 million. Today Lian Beng’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Lian Beng Construction, is the chief revenue driver. While it has gone into property development and continues to grow along the value chain into other construction

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support services such as readymixed concrete, construction equipment and machinery leasing and engineering works, they are a secondary focus. “While we have ventured into property development and other fields, construction remains our group’s main business, forming more than 75 percent of our turnover,” Mr Ong said in a recent interview.

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Notable on-going construction projects include Thomson grand, developed by the Cheung kong group from Hong kong, Waterfront Isles, developed by far East Organization, and Hedges Park, developed by Hong Leong group. Lian Beng is also co-developing a few residential, commercial and industrial projects with its joint venture partners. A few examples are M-space and Mandai Dormitory

at Mandai Industrial Estate, Spottiswoode Suites off Neil Road, a hotel development near Bugis, Lincoln Suites off Newton Road and mixed development, The Midtown at Hougang. In many of these property development projects Lian Beng also undertakes the construction. We recently had the privilege of talking with Lian Bengâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Construction Director Jeffrey Teo, who answered our questions in this unique Q&A. Continued

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Tell us more about lian Beng’s history. What defines you as a business? And what are your key strengths? Established in 1973, Lian Beng group Ltd is one of singapore’s major home-grown building construction groups and one of the few which has integrated civil engineering and construction support service capabilities. We are principally involved in the construction of residential, industrial and commercial projects, and civil engineering projects as a main contractor, and are a Building and Construction Authority (BCA) grade A1 contractor. That means we can tender for public sector building projects of unlimited contract value. We are also engaged in other construction related activities. These include the provision scaffolding and engineering services, the supply of ready-mix concrete, leasing of equipment and machinery, reinforcement bar fabrication and the training of foreign construction labour. We also engage in property development, mostly through joint-ventures. Lian Beng group Ltd was listed on the Main Board of the singapore Exchange (sgX) in 1999 and our key strength is our vertically integrated business model. Continued

Overview of Marina Bay Sands Credit: Timothy Hursley®

ForMwork HIrE solutIon

ormwork Hire (s.E.A.) Pte Ltd is an established system formwork company that is totally committed to give a complete total formwork solution ranging from the design, supply and commissioning of the entire formwork system. Our system formwork can be used for foundations, columns and walls - everything from small to large scale. similarly hydraulic self climbing formwork can be provided where considered necessary. for slabs we can offer our heavy duty frames and tableforms using system elements that will increase the construction productivity. for tunnels, towers, bridges with special shapes can all be combined with modified systems and special elements. Over the years, we have accumulated abundant experiences in high rise buildings, civil formwork, bridge-road formwork, water reclamation plant, biological plant, tunnels and warehouse projects. Our constant aim is to provide a system formwork based on speed, simplicity, safety and cost effectiveness. With our enduring zeal, all new enquiries and projects entrusted to us by our clients are therefore our reward for the tireless efforts and striving for the best system formwork we can offer. tel (65) 6257 9963 Email enquiries@formwork.com.sg

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THAM & WONG LLP Tham & Wong LLP offers full civil & structural consultancy and Accredited Checker services to various types of developments We have expanded and extended our consultancy services to Asia with projects undertaken in Vietnam, Thailand, Laos, Myanmar and Malaysia Our company is committed to provide the best engineering solutions to all our clients Tel 65 6291 6292 Email hr@tw-asia.com

www.tw-asia.com How is the business performing? The last 12 months have been exciting for Lian Beng. We made very good progress in our business, in the following ways: In construction, we secured several big projects: Skies Miltonia in February 2013, Bartley Ridge in March, and two industrial projects at Sunview Road and Tampines Crescent in early April and Oxley Tower @ Robinson, a hotel at 122 Middle Road and Goodwood Residence at the end of April. That is great news. Within the first four months of 2013 we have secured six construction projects amounting to about S$750 million, strengthening our orderbook to a record high of S$1.2 billion. In property development, our 55 percent-owned industrial development at Mandai (M-Space) is fully sold. We have also just launched our 50 percentowned residential development at Spottiswoode Park Road (Spottiswoode Suites) and another large scale mixed-development project at Hougang (The Midtown).

The last 12 months have been exciting for Lian Beng. We made very good progress in our businessâ&#x20AC;? Have there been any challenges? As with anything there were challenges along the way. The foreign levy has increased and is expected to increase further. There will also be tightening of foreign labour. The construction cost is therefore likely to increase. We need to find ways to continue to improve our productivity. How would you sum up the current state of the industry? Are there lots of opportunities for the company? There are. The construction industry is brimming with opportunities with the increasing population and hence the improvement and expansion of infrastructure, and the increase in housing demand and other commercial and industrial property demand. As construction demand increases, the cost of construction support services is likely to increase too. We need to seek new ways to improve our productivity to address this challenge. Continued

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The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Singapore, Cairnhill - Exterior of building

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The advance vacuum system is offered thru a partnership with Aertecnica from Italy. Aertecnica is the global leader in the field of central vacuum system. The partnership with Aertecnica complements GWSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s clean and green solutions for urban homes in Singapore.

10 Admiralty Street, #06-27 Northlink Building Singapore 757695 Tel: +65 65700830 | Fax: +65 65700831 Email: enquiry@gwspl.com.sg | www.greenwavesolutions.com.sg

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Marina Bay Sands view from Ritz Carlton Residences

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What does the Singapore market demand in a developer? How do you go about meeting that challenge? We believe that generally the market demands a developer to provide comfortable homes at affordable prices and at an acceptable level of quality. The market also demands that the developer complete the project on time. To meet this challenge the developer must be prudent in its tender of the land, in ensuring the proper and on-time completion of the project, and in sizing the market well to sell the property at the acceptable price level.

We believe that generally the market demands a developer to provide comfortable homes at affordable prices and at an acceptable level of qualityâ&#x20AC;?

You mentioned the tightening of foreign labour earlier and the government is continuing to tighten quotas. How is that affecting you? What are the ramifications? The construction cost is expected to be higher. To ensure no delay in our projects we need to improve our productivity. We are, to some extent, insulated from this issue as we have our own workers. We train our own workers, we have an overseas training centre to prepare our workers, and we have also our construction support resources. However, Lian Beng is always on a lookout for new methods, new technologies, new processes or new ways to reduce the reliance on manpower and increase productivity through these new innovative discoveries. We are expecting the construction cost to be brought to its equilibrium after the initial phases running in the new productivity measures. Continued

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Well-established interior builder that specializes in customized fitting out of high-end commercial, hospitality, healthcare and residential properties in Singapore and the Asia-Pacific.

DHdeco pte ltd

1 Sungei Kadut Street 4, Singapore 729030 T: +65 6472 6600 F: +65 6365 7010 E: support@dhdeco.com Website : www.dhdeco.com

SINGAPORE AUSTRALIA BRUNEI CHINA MALAYSIA SRI LANKA THAILAND VIETNAM

These are the core businesses that we provide and we will assure you with our best quality: • Bored Piling • Kentledge Reaction Load Testing • Construction of Contiguous Bored Pile Walls • Ancillary Services

Resource Piling Pte. Ltd. No.1 Upper Aljunied Link (Blk A) #07-06 Joo Seng Warehouse SIngapore 367901 Tel: (065) 63823400 | Fax: (065) 62817720 Email: info@resource-piling.com.sg | www.resource-piling.com.sg

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You have two major projects due for completion this year - spottiswoode residences and the scala at serangoon Avenue 3. How are they progressing? Both projects are expected to complete towards the end of 2013. tell me a bit more about the company’s working culture and values? what’s important to you? Our core values are: 1. teamwork - A commitment to common goals based on open and honest communication while showing concern and support for each other. 2. Integrity - Do the right thing…. always. We do what is right, not what is easiest. We are true to ourselves and others. We are transparent, honest, and consistent. We take pride in our work and act with professionalism. 3. Innovation - Challenge existing practices…. strive to find ways to continuously improve. 4. Excellence – We challenge ourselves to execute flawlessly and to consistently deliver the highest quality of service to our clients. We seek the best talent and promote personal and professional development. 5. commitment – We are passionate about solving complex issues and are intensely focused on serving our clients and helping them achieve their business objectives. We do what we say we are going to do: we create value. lian Beng is no stranger to awards and you’ve won accolades like the BcA skilled Builders competition (you were winners for the architectural finishing category and took home the productivity trophy). tell me more about that? Are you proud to have won? We are honoured to have won the award. There are numerous construction companies and there are also many great completed projects. It is an honour to win and winning the award is a testimony of our strength and capability. On 16 May 2013 Lian Beng group - through its subsidiary Millennium International Builders Pte Ltd - will be receiving the BCA Construction Excellence Award for the Ritz Carlton Residences in singapore. The award demonstrates the strength of its overall management of the project, possessing the required technical capability and innovations for the construction, and achieving a very high quality standard of the completed project. Continued

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Waterbank Dakota

Marina Bay Sands from Gardens by the Bay Sunset

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Marina Bay Sands view from The Sail

You are also fully engaged with the Green and Gracious Builder Scheme. Why is that important? The BCA Green and Gracious Builder Scheme was established to promote sustainable environmental protection and gracious practices in builders during the construction phase of projects. To be socially responsible, a builder should embrace sustainable environmental protection and gracious practices and engage this scheme. With eyes on the future, whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in store for Lian Beng? We aim to secure more construction projects, strengthen our construction order book further and increase our construction revenue. On our property development business, we aim to achieve good sales in our development projects, and to continue to seek opportunities to co-develop projects with suitable partners. To expand our business we shall maintain our strategy of actively but prudently pitching for more construction projects to maintain our margins and participating in property development through joint ventures. There are opportunities overseas but we need to tread carefully. Continued

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The OLA Residences at Mountbatten Road

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CSC HOLDINGS LIMITED Your Partner in Ground Engineering

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CASA HOLDINGS LIMITED 15 Kian Teck Crescent, Singapore 628884 Tel: +65 6268-0066 Fax: +65 6266-8069 www.casaholdings.com.sg

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Marina Bay, Singapore Credit: Timothy Hursley®

Are you optimistic about the local construction sector? We are. There are still a lot of opportunities within singapore with the increasing population. Along with the expected population growth, there is a growing demand for housing, commercial and industrial, as well as the improvement and expansion of infrastructure.

There is no secret in our success; we just work hard and we embrace our corporate culture dearly”

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if you met a Genie who offered to have all of lian Beng’s dreams come true, in order of priority, what would they be? In business there are no shortcuts. We need to work for our successes. We need to lay our own firm foundation so that we can grow bigger and stronger. what is the secret to lian Beng’s success? There is no secret in our success; we just work hard and we embrace our corporate culture dearly. We believe we are successful mainly through our teamwork and diligence. We work hard daily to fulfil our mission of providing the best quality for services and products to all our customers so that we can achieve our vision to be a leading building construction player in singapore. We also believe in continuously improving our capabilities, our productivity and expand our service offerings so that we remain competitive.

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We welcome like-minded partners to form JVs to explore business opportunities in Singapore or overseasâ&#x20AC;? No business can be successful without its human resource. We welcome those who share the same values with us, to join us, and together we fulfil our dreams. We welcome like-minded partners to form JVs to explore business opportunities in Singapore or overseas so that we grow bigger and stronger together. Lian Beng has not only survived tough times during economic downturns and recessions but has emerged stronger. It continues to grow along the value chain and we look forward to bringing you more from them in the near future. To learn more about Lian Beng visit www.lianbeng.com.sg.

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POW E R success

Asia Outlook profiles Asia Projects Engineering Pte Ltd, a company primarily engaged in plant engineering work and maintenance. With over 40 years of experience, it has worked with some of the biggest names in the power, petrochemical, oil & gas, and utilities industry and has become one of southeast Asiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most trusted engineering companies. Writer Ian Armitage Project manager Sheridan Halls

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uas Power,YTL Powerseraya, singapore District Cooling, Alstom Power, keppel Infrastructure, senoko Energy, Babcock-Hitachi, Pfizer Asia Pacific, SembCorp Industries, siemens, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Mitsui Engineering and shipbuilding. What do all these names have in common? They’ve all worked with one of southeast Asia’s most trusted engineering companies, Asia Projects Engineering. Also known as APECO, the firm has over 40 years of experience, says Managing Director Mr. ML Heng, in providing “integrated solutions and services in engineering, including design, engineering, procurement, fabrication, construction and maintenance.”

We have upcoming projects in Jurong Island and Singapore’s petrochemical and oil & gas industries including liquefied natural gas are very healthy with a number of players building new plants” He says the firm’s staff has “decades of experience”, paired with “extreme efficiency” and professionalism. “You know you’re in safe hands,” Mr Heng explains. APECO specialises in the power, petrochemical, pharmaceutical, utility, infrastructure and oil & gas industries and has been steadily and substantially growing as a business thanks to a focus on reliable quality and high standards. In 2009, it enjoyed record turnover, completing successful projects with the likes of sembgas, senoko Energy and singapore District Cooling. Continued

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Although turnover has dipped slightly since, Mr Heng still expects the firm to achieve over S$80 million this year. “In 2009 we achieved our highest turnover at $83 million, completing several big projects,” he says. “Turnover for 2010-11 was in the range of $75 million and in 2012 there was a reduction and it came down to $68 million. What was that down to? In 2011 we completed a couple of big projects. In 2012 we got another couple of projects but it was of smaller size in terms of value. so that is why there was the dip. “Are there plenty of projects still out there?” he adds. “Yes, at this moment there are substantial number of inquires coming in.” A number of those are from the oil & gas and petrochemicals industry and APECO is picking up a lot of work on Jurong Island, says Mr Heng. “We have upcoming projects in Jurong Island and singapore’s petrochemical and oil & gas industries including liquefied Natural gas are very healthy with a number of players building new plants.” for one, APECO is working on Singapore’s liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal, the first open-access, multiuser LNg terminal in Asia, capable of

unIQuE HArdwArE

u Do I see a bright future for us? Yes I do. We are specialists in EPC work and are diverse in what we are able to do and offer”

Continued

APECO has worked with the biggest names in the power industry

nique Hardware Co. Pte Ltd reached a new milestone with the unveiling of a new ad-dress at No.7, Woodlands Terrace, a detached factory with a land area of 53,992 square feet. This new bigger and better facility allows us to hold a high volume, comprehensive and diverse range of stock. It is our hope that this well-stocked facility, together with our fleet of 13 commercial vehicles and an experienced staff strength of 40, will catapult our business to a whole new level. unique Hardware Co. Pte Ltd has been widely recognized as a highly reliable and well-stocked Industrial/ Marine hardware stockist and supplier since 1972 in industries ranging from Marine Offshore and Shipbuilding, Construction, Engineering & fabricators, Oil & gas, as well as Aerospace and government statutory Boards. Over a span of forty years, unique Hardware has successfully formed a vast and diversified network of customers. Our stock and services include marine hardware, fabrication and mom testing of lifting gear, hand tools, power tools, abrasives, safety and welding products and all general hardware items. wIdE Product rAngE FAst rEsPonsE And dElIVErY tIME AttAInMEnt oF Iso cErtIFIcAtIon Contact us today for all your industrial needs : tel 65 6748 4211 Email rashidah@unique.com.sg

www.unique.com.sg

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ONE STOP CONVENIENCE FOR ALL YOUR INDUSTRIAL HARDWARE NEEDS Marine Hardware & Lifting Gears • Our very own test bed to provide testing services for all lifting and material handling equipments like Chain & Lever Hoists, Lifting clamps, Webbing Slings • Our very own mechanical wire rope press cum clamping machine. • 100% Nylon Ropes , 80% Nylon Ropes , Polypropylene ropes, Manila Ropes.. • Lashing Fittings like Galvd Chain, Turnbuckles, Shackles, Bull Dog Clips, Snap Hooks in stainless steel SS316 & SS304 as well as Galvanized material. • Alloy Chain & related fittings like shackles, hammerlocks, all types of lifting hooks like BK and Eye Sling hooks. • Vertical & Horizontal Lifting Clamps • Webbing & Lashing Belts • Chain Blocks, Lever Hoists, Geared & Plain Trolley, Wire Rope Winches... Hand Tools / Power Tools / Precision & Measuring Tools • Hand Tools: Ammech, Spero, William, Elora, Proto, METZ, Top, KTC, Tone, • Power Tools & Pneumatic Tools: Bosch, Dewalt, Hitachi, Ryobi, Makita, Kawasaki, Toku... • Magnetic Drill / TCT Cutter (OMI, Newbroach, Hougan, Southern Nitto Kohki, Southern) • Pipe Tools: Ridgid Kollmann, Record, Rex, Asada... • Precision Tools: TCT Burr, Wittman, Brian, Dormer, Shinto, Metz, SKC..

Abrasives / Safety & Welding Products • Cutting & Grinding Discs: Crown / Hawk / Kusumi • Sanding Disc & Abrasive Paper: Crown • Wire Cup Brush, Wheel brush: Crown / Nomiya / Lion / Nitoyo / Union.. • Safety Foot Wear: Nitti / Kings / METZ • Safety Protective Apparels: All types of glove / Helmets / Masks & Jackets • Welding & Cutting Equipment: General Hardware • Adhesives & Sealants: Loctite / Dow Corning / Molykote / WD40 / Permatex / Crown Lubricants / Cordobond / Devcon • LED & Rechargeable Light: Pelican Mitylite, M10 Rechargeable Light, Jaguar, Hatsune / Eveready • Masking & Cloth Tapes: Hunter / Nashua / Apollo / Hibond / Jupiter • Blower FanS & Duct hoses • Canvas & Tarpaulin in standard rolls and sheets • Plastic sheets and Trunkings in all sizes and types. • All types of Trolleys, Pallet Trucks and Castor Wheels • All kinds of Timbers, Plywoods, Planks and Wedges • All types of PVC Pipes and Fittings • All types of Hoses and Fittings • Annealled wire / Galvd wire / Nails • Mild Steel Pipes and Fittings, Plates and Angle Bars • Stainless Steel Pipes and Fittings, Plates and Angle Bars • Packing Tools & all accessories.

Unique Hardware Co. Pte Ltd T: 6748 4211 (15 lines) 6748 7121 (15 lines) F: 6369 1937 / 6747 8026 6743 5460 / 6758 5386 E: rashidah@unique.com.sg

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importing and re-exporting LNG from multiple suppliers. “That is a major project of ours,” Mr Heng explains. “We are currently working on it and by year end it will be completed.” Singapore received its first commercial delivery of LNG in May, diversifying its supplies and underscoring the country’s role as a regional energy hub at a time when Asia’s gas demand and trade is booming. “We expect further opportunities in that sector,” Heng adds. “We have a number of projects in the pipeline which is still in the negotiation stage.” APECO is expecting to pick up work in other sectors too, as it looks to “diversify from power”. “In terms of turnover for this year we are targeting over $80 million and where inquiries are concerned we are diversifying our work to other areas like M&E.

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We are also eyeing overseas expansion, looking at Malaysia and Myanmar. We are looking for new partnerships with the local counterpart in the respective countries”

Recently we have listed our company with Singapore’s Building Construction Authority as a registered M&E contractor. “Why are we diversifying? It makes good business sense. Singapore’s power industry is saturated – currently there is an oversupply of electricity here – and we don’t foresee many new power stations being built in the near future. So we are diversifying our works to other industries, specifically the new petrochemical plants in Jurong Island where we are installing pipelines, equipment, utility pipelines and structures etc.” APECO has an innovative approach and thrives on a challenge. It has an excellent track record in handling a variety of projects. “We have a commitment to building long-term working relationships with our clients and have had close collaborations on a multitude of projects in a number of industries.

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“We have built strong relationships with customers and suppliers, achieving considerable growth, and we have an excellent track record in handling different kinds of projects, be it small or large. Our staff share the same vision of building APECO into a high performance engineering company.” The firm’s structure is symbolic of its future plans and it is organised into several structured departments – project and construction, maintenance and operations, engineering and proposal, fabrication, civil, and electrical and instrumentation. “Do I see a bright future for us? Yes I do. We are specialists in EPC work and are diverse in what we are able to do and offer.” Of the 100 staff employed by the company, a number have been with the firm over 20 years. That longevity is critical. “They are part of the culture of the company and help drive us forward,” Mr Heng says. “Culture is very important here. “What is the secret to our success? Offering integrated solutions and services in engineering, procurement, construction and maintenance and have a very strong track record of delivery. The ultimate target is to deliver the project on time, to the desired quality and in budget. That is our aim and that is what we have historically done.” By 2016 he hopes the firm will be turning over $100 million. “That is one target,” Mr Heng says. “We think we can achieve that. “We are also eyeing overseas expansion, looking at Malaysia and Myanmar. We are looking for new partnerships with the local counterpart in the respective countries. “We have high hopes for the district cooling market in terms of our EPC offering. The government is promoting district cooling and our target is to continue our work in this area.” APECO is a company on the up and up. To learn more visit www.apeco.com.sg.

BARRIER CONTRACTING We are specialised in: • Corrosion Protection Coatings • Architectural Coatings • Floor Coatings

18 Boon Lay Way #03-146 TradeHub 21 Singapore 609966

Tel: (65) 6795 2158 Fax: (65) 6567 5843 Email: barriercontracting@hotmail.com

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Cardno seeks expansion Asia is undergoing a period of unprecedented economic growth and this represents huge opportunity says Bruce Johnson, Area Manager/ Manager New Projects, Cardno BEC. Writer Ian Armitage Project manager James Mitchell

frica is undergoing a period of unprecedented economic growth and is increasingly catching the attention of foreign investors, who have contributed to a rapid increase in capital expenditure. In fact, it’s nothing new - foreign direct investment in Africa has been on the rise since the early 2000s, increasing fivefold in 2000-2010. It is the real deal and the continent’s economic outlook for 2013 and 2014 is promising, confirming its healthy resilience to internal and external shocks and its role as a growth pole in an ailing global economy.

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Africa’s economy is projected to grow by 4.8 percent in 2013 and accelerate further to 5.3 percent in 2014. “Now is the time for Africa,” says Bruce Johnson, Area Manager/ Manager New Projects, Cardno BEC, the head of project development, service and business development within the Cardno BEC engineering team. “We agree that Africa’s potential is huge; there are fantastic opportunities in Africa. Its large reserves of undeveloped mineral resources are in demand and in that there is opportunity.” Cardno BEC is part of Brisbanebased environmental and engineering consulting services

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company Cardno Limited. Cardno, with its large project history in Africa, strong infrastructure capabilities, and prior experience working with government policy makers around the world, is uniquely positioned to provide the services to help Africa fulfil its potential, says Johnson. “Cardno has been in Africa for many decades; it is not a new market for us. The opportunity we see at the moment is taking advantage of the large gDP growth. A lot of countries are seeing five percent plus growth and much of that is on the back of revenues from mining activities and that is work we have focused on.”

Right now Africa has taken centre stage as a “bastion of opportunity”, he adds. It is rapidly emerging as a destination of choice for many investors and developers as they look for high-growth markets. “More focus is going onto Africa,” says Johnson. “We have the experience there, we aren’t tied to a specific type of mining or extraction process, and we aren’t limited in the scope of what we can do. The opportunity is much, much larger than what we have seen in Australia and so the potential is huge. We’re excited by it.” The focus isn’t just on mining. “We have capability in infrastructure

and utilities etc. And one area that we have high on our agenda is power transmission systems and large power stations. They have to be built to cater for the increasing development. There are also port and rail facilities that are going in, and need to go in. Now is the time for cementing Africa’s potential and delivering on that. It represents huge opportunity.” Johnson believes Cardno BEC and other Australian firms can compete successfully against the likes of the Chinese for work in resource rich Africa. “It’s a big world and we have been up against competitors across the global for a long time,” he explains. “We have succeeded in the Continued

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international market place based on the quality of what we have to offer and our competitiveness. “I think also we have a lot of experience in working in remote areas, being Australia. Australia has low population density and the mines are far remote from any cities or population centres. That capability of constructing and operating facilities in remote locations is one of the advantages that Australian companies have. Now whether that will remain an advantage for long who’s to say but for the moment it is certainly helping. “One thing we know for sure is that Cardno BEC has a proven capability across all aspects of electrical engineering in the mining and resources sector, an area into which we have been expanding for some time and so we are optimistic.” Africa isn’t without its challenges. “One of the main things investors want to see is more transparency,” says Johnson. Cardno BEC is currently working on Toronto-listed Endeavour Mining Corp’s Agbaou gold project in the Ivory Coast, which remains on track for completion by the end of the year. “The other project that we are on the ground with is the grande Côte Mineral sands Project in senegal. That is a good sized project for us.” This is a good time for Cardno and the firm recently projected Net Profit after Tax of between $A73 million and $A77 million for the year ending 30 June 2013. It said all its divisions, BEC included, were “trading profitably”. “The geographic and discipline diversity of Cardno’s global businesses continues to underpin the company’s performance by reducing risk and volatility of earnings. However, Cardno is not immune to challenging conditions in its major markets. Economic conditions continue to affect demand for our services worldwide,” said Cardno Managing Director Andrew Buckley. “The last 12 months have been an interesting period,” says Johnson. “Like any other engineering company we have been subject to the drop in capital projects in the mining industry as well as general infrastructure and construction industry and that has happened around the world. In Australia, there have been delays in investment decisions and projects and the mining sector has slowed, with non-essential work being halted or delayed. Infrastructure is also down. Cardno does have a lot of work in the u.s., though. It does probably 50 percent of its work in there and

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wAY ElEctrIcAl PtY ltd Extensive experience throughout Australia, Africa and Asia WAY Electrical can commit to have your projects labour and material requirements onsite when its required to ensure project timeframes are not just maintained but improved. Proven Management Team -The WAY Electrical senior management team have worked together for the past 12 years and have developed a large team of skilled project personnel that they have worked with on successful projects right across the resources area both in Australia and Overseas. Our focus is on achieving Clients required outcomes. tel +61 8 6253 5700 Email syates@way-electrical.com.au

www.way-electrical.com.au

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they have been doing a lot better as the economy has gotten better, seeing an improvement in the demand for private sector infrastructure. “There have been ups and downs,” he adds. “The general construction industry in Australia has been down and Europe has been quiet through all the structural changes over there. So, we have been lucky that we’ve had the U.S. to balance that off against.” A bright future is on the cards however. “Cardno has a fairly aggressive expansion plan,” says Johnson. “That’ll require getting involved in larger projects with some joint ventures with various contractors and other engineering companies. I think you’ll see us getting involved in the larger projects. There’s a lot of work in South America for the World Cup and Olympic Games coming up and Cardno has hopes to get significant work out of that; I know they have already got

They have been doing a lot better as the economy has gotten better, seeing an improvement in the demand for private sector infrastructure” some work up in that area. “As well as Africa, I think there will be a lot of expansion into Asia. It is a strategic area. Another area is Canada, boosting our work there. A lot of that is mining focused.” Historically Cardno has been aggressive in pursuing growth through acquisitions, having bought nearly 40 smaller companies in the past 15 years. It acquired BEC in 2011.

Cardno BEC is an established engineering company providing a wide range of support services to the mining, mineral processing, industrial, petrochemical and utility sectors. With offices in Western Australia (Perth), Queensland (Brisbane) and in Tanzania (Dar es Salaam) it has been maintaining a presence in the mining and minerals processing industry since establishing the business in 1996. Services cover the entire range from feasibility studies through to turnkey packages. It has proven capability across all aspects of electrical, instrument, control, communications and power generation with a dedicated team of qualified, skilled and experienced engineers, technicians, programmers, draftspersons and site support staff. To learn more visit www.cardno.com.

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Asia Outlook profiles Pan Asia Logistics, a preferred air and ocean freight forwarder and logistics partner for many top brands in the East Asian market. Writer Ian Armitage Project manager James Mitchell

an Asia Logistics (PAL) is a preferred air and ocean freight forwarder and logistics partner for many top brands in the East Asian market. It is a “holistic logistics provider”, offering a “complete range” of fully integrated logistics services and supply chain solutions” which are efficient, intelligent and cost-effective. “We have been active in the market for ten years and specialise in air and ocean freight, contract logistics and project logistics for infrastructural projects in Southeast Asia,” says founder and majority shareholder Christian Bischoff. “We also have a number of complementary addedvalue services such as customs clearance and storage, distribution management, supply and inventory management, dangerous goods and waste logistics and so on and provide supply chain management as a 3PL and 4PL provider.” PAL, he says, “provides highly efficient concepts” which are designed to “optimise” customers’ supply chains and “drive value for their businesses.” The approach is paying off. The rapidly growing firm recorded a turnover of nearly 100 million euros in 2012 and has over 45 offices in Asia and various Continued

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rEVErsE logIstIcs grouP Reverse Logistics group (RLg) is an international provider of comprehensive reverse logistics systems. We design and operate take-backsolutions addressing the entire product lifecycle. In Asia, RLg focuses among others on take-back-services for e-commerce & retail, PET bottles, and lead acid batteries. Customers benefit from high sustainability in terms of legal and supply security, environmental focus and customer loyalty, by following our one-stop-shopping approach and by completing closed-loop cycles. tel +65 6671 0978 Email RLgAsia@rev-log.com

www.rev-log.com

PAL Oﬃce view

agents around the world, all staffed to the highest professional standards. PAL’s offices in Asia are linked to this global network and continue to expand living by the mantra, “we go where our customers are”. “We started with six people in 2003 and we now employ over 700 staff in Asia Pacific alone,” says Bischoff. “We were born during the sARs epidemic and it proved to be true that in crisis there is also opportunity. It meant we could start Pan Asia Logistics at a much lower cost.” The business has gone from strength to strength and was well positioned when the global financial crisis hit. It has survived subsequent market volatility well and continues to grow. The worldwide logistics market is worth over a trillion u.s. dollars annually and growing. We still have a very small slice of the pie. We

invest substantially and position the company strategically to gain market share, particularly in Asia. In 2013 alone, Pan Asia Logistics committed over Euro 100 million in fresh investments. “Last year we turned over just below 100 million euro. This year’s growth rate will be rather small despite increasing business volumes. This is due to the dramatic erosion of freight rates this year. However, we will still cross the 100 million euro in turnover in 2013. We expect a large increase in turnover in 2014, when some of the invested projects go live. “We are committed towards delivering the highest standards in operations and customer service excellence and have put high standards in place at every level of our organisation to ensure consistency in premium quality performance.”

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Roof Garden Changi North

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Bischoff believes that the key factors of PAL’s success lies in its highly trained and dedicated people supported by cutting-edge technology and high performance IT systems. In January the firm was awarded the contract to build the new spare parts logistics centre for Mercedes-Benz, one of its largest customers, in korea. PAL will build the new facility and operate it. The total investment is us$50 million dollars and the new Parts distribution centre will be threetimes the size of the current warehouse. Operation is planned to commence in March 2014. “Why do companies like MercedesBenz, Ericsson, siemens or other big names work with us?” asks Bischoff, “we go the distance and we help clients gain more control, consistency and predictability in the supply chain. Our size is a big factor. We are small and nimble. We are flexible.” Continued

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Those are desirable attributes – smaller, nimbler logistics providers are in vogue. PAL is flourishing. “We are not a complex company; we keep our structures lean and simple. we make complex processes look simple,” Bischoff says. “It helps to lower cost, speed up lead times, to bring certain urgency into the movement which is what customers really want and really appreciate. “Bigger logistics providers can’t be as flexible and fast. We work closely with our clients to better understand specific needs and aim to provide services that suit unique requirements of various industries.” This is how PAL has managed to outdo the bigger players. And Pan Asia Logistics is well-placed for the future.

The worldwide logistics market is worth over a trillion U.S. dollars annually and growing. We still have a very small slice of the pie” “It is no secret that the market has been very volatile since 2009 really. We have had some ups but more lows than anything else,” Bischoff explains. “The volatility in the market, demand of airfreight and sea freight space is really not easy to manage for anybody

– small or large companies – and then there is the huge fluctuation in price. freight rates are up and down. Just to give you an example, a year ago the ocean freight price for a 40ft container from shanghai to felixstowe was us$2500. Today you pay less than us$1000. It becomes increasingly difficult to manage. On the other hand there are opportunities as well. We are not too afraid of the volatility. We can manage it a bit better than many others because we are smaller and faster. We take chances. We are very aggressive in the market and we are adding business all the time.” further growth is on the cards. “We are still hungry. We still want to do a lot of things and of course the growth forecasts for Asia are encouraging,” Bischoff says. “We are targeting s$1 billion turnover by 2020

Christian Bischoﬀ, CEO of Pan Asia Logistics

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L1 Log Ctr Changi Warehouse

Picture by Kean Low

within the group. We have activated a lot of measures and are looking for innovative ways to grow our business in existing areas as well as new ones. “for example, we have started a couple of new divisions, aiming at covering lucrative niche businesses like pharmaceuticals and biomedical, remanufacturing and recycling logistics, and time critical solutions. These new units are developing nicely and profitably. “We are constantly adapting to meet the growing and changing demands of our customers.” Having grown annual revenue from s$20 million to more than s$150 million in just ten years, Bischoff’s target of hitting s$1 billion by 2020 does not seem too outrageous. PAL will continue to “take on” the big boys and its success lies in a careful combination of going after the right clients and providing customised logistics solutions that are cost-competitive. “We are not a niche player. We are in the mass market, going head on with all the big players in the industry and we are canvassing multinational companies on a worldwide scale. We must be doing something right,” Bischoff says.

Mr Bischoff has lived in Singapore for more than 25 years and has over 35years of experience in logistics. “We are an Asian company with profound knowledge of the Asian markets. This gives us a certain advantage over multinational companies, which often shy away from investing in “unknown” territory or simply do not want to be burdened with assets in Asia. One of the reasons why we are attractive as a logistics service provider for MNC’s in Asia is our international and multicultural management and staff. We more than often function as a connective link for our customers, bridging the gaps and paving the way in the process.”

We are still hungry. We still want to do a lot of things and of course the growth forecasts for Asia are encouraging”

The outlook for the global economy remains uncertain. While Bischoff is not afraid, he says it will be “vital for logistics service providers to continue to monitor the changing markets and be able to react swiftly and adjust to changes”. “We are on a journey to capture growth by aggressively pursuing our strategy of developing our core business and key services and, at the same time, expanding our services and diversify to offer greater value. We have launched a number of innovative projects and ventured into new products and this will continue to be a future strategy,” he adds. “We will continue to reinforce our market presence and position us strategically.” key Account Director Michael Rutsch continues: “We have the strategic location of singapore which helps us. singapore is a great hub for Asia, southeast Asia. Big companies use this as a platform. We help companies to grow their business in new and existing markets. This is what we have done for Daimler, for example, for the last 10 years and it has worked fantastically.” PAL is known for its personal touch, high quality of delivery and efficiency of services. To learn more visit www.panalogs.com.

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Nurses trained in the Tun Tan Cheng Lock College of Nursing (also known as Assunta Nursing School) are recognised for outstanding nursing capabilities

Assunta Hospital is the only medical centre in Malaysia oďŹ&#x20AC;ering pastoral care to patients and families in times of need

The heart and art of

Assunta Hospital, a pioneering private healthcare provider in Malaysia and the first private hospital in the klang valley, is backed by a legacy of caring and dedicated healthcare delivery.

Consultant Gynaecologist and Obstetrician Dr Cecilia Wong helps women understand their bodies better during pregnancy

The Paediatric Wards are decorated with cheerful animations to keep young patients happy and compliant

Writer Ian Armitage & Chan Li Jin Project manager Eddie Clinton

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The hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Physiotherapy Unit includes a Hydro Pool and dedicated physiotherapists

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alaysia is often referred to as the “Asian Dragon” and its healthcare system boasts of high-end hospitals that provide excellent services. The industry – divided into private and public healthcare – has undergone huge transformation since the country’s independence in 1957 and the government is committed to improving the system, having already achieved universal coverage for the population. governmental sources describe the sector as “a major resource which is critical to the success of the nation’s socioeconomic status”. Among the country’s first tier medical provides is Assunta Hospital, a pioneering private healthcare provider with a sound history of providing “quality and affordable healthcare for all”.

A History of Delivery

A look through the history books shows that Assunta, based in Petaling Jaya, a satellite city developed in 1952 to ease the problem of overpopulation in kuala Lumpur, has always been committed to delivering dedicated healthcare across all levels of society. Assunta started small. What would later become the hospital opened its doors soon after Petaling Jaya’s birth. It was established by four franciscan Missionaries of Mary nuns and was originally a small clinic named Ave Maria, serving the healthcare needs of the underprivileged. Through public donations, the little clinic soon expanded to include a maternity home and convent. By 1957, the population of Petaling Jaya had grown so rapidly that the clinic-cum-maternity home could no longer meet the needs of the people. Led by philanthropist Tun Leong Yew koh, a large-scale fundraising event

was conducted, successfully raising enough funds to build the hospital on its current location in 1959. More major milestones were achieved in 1961, when Assunta Hospital started a new ward and became the first private hospital with an operating theatre. Now, over 60 years on, the hospital remains dedicated to a mission that values the sanctity of life and places the highest priority on treating every individual with dignity. One common approach is adopted by all at the hospital – holistic care. The modern 344-bed, technologically advanced specialist facility prides itself on providing the utmost in quality, safe and compassion-driven healthcare services which are “cost effective to all members of the community regardless of race, colour, creed or gender”. This has earned the hospital the trust of generations upon generations of families; further strengthening its mantra of possessing the “heart and art of care”.

specialist services

Assunta Hospital offers a wide spectrum of services including digital diagnostic imaging through the use of medically advanced diagnostic tools such as the 64 multi-slice Computerized Tomographic (CT) scanner and 1.5 Tesla 32 channel Magnetic Resonance Imager (MRI); minimally invasive and image guided surgery; comprehensive physiotherapy services such as hydrotherapy, musculoskeletal and orthopaedics; hyperbaric oxygen therapy; birthing services for Women and Infants; neonatal care, intensive care; pastoral care; comprehensive laboratory services and a complete scale of services for the diagnosis and treatment of heart and vascular disease including angiograms, angioplasties, stents, balloons, pacemaker implantations, open heart surgeries.

With a history of more than 60 years, Assunta Hospital is as much a landmark for Petaling Jaya as it is a symbol of caring healthcare delivery

The Maternal and Child Unit oﬀers comprehensive services including antenatal classes and services, delivery, breastfeeding counselling and more

The Intensive Care Unit is fully-equipped with the latest equipment to ensure patients get the best care during their most vulnerable moments

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The not-for-profit tertiary private healthcare centre also offers advanced medical treatments such as the x-treme Lateral Interbody fusion (X-Lif), unilateral knee replacement, staple and laser haemorrhoidectomy and major laparoscopic surgeries. All of the hospital’s specialists are highly trained leaders in their fields, with some who had obtained their specialisation from overseas such as the uk and Australia, and often serve as points of reference for younger doctors in the industry. As Assunta’s doctors are at the forefront of their practice, the hospital constantly holdscontinuous professional development (CPD) programmes as an initiative to grow the medical profession. To provide quality care, patient safety is a top priority, which gained the hospital accreditation from the Malaysian society of Quality in Health, the country’s local equivalent of the internationally-recognised Joint Commission International (JCI).

At The Heart of Care

Assunta continues to pour its heart and soul to community work, with a minimum 30 percent of the hospital’s profits returned to charitable projects, some of which have even won regional recognition, such as the Passionately You campaign initiated in 2008 to raise awareness on cancers of the breast and cervix. Through Assunta Integrated social Services (ASSISS), the hospital offers palliative care and pastoral support, becoming the only medical facility to offer such services. The Mobile van, which visits seven locations monthly to provide basic healthcare services to the poor and underprivileged, is an extension of the outreach services offered by the FMM nuns in the 1960s. Today, the wellequipped van bringing nurses, volunteer doctors and a repertoire of modern medicines continue with this legacy.

Spacious and comfortable rooms with natural sunlight oﬀer a conducive healing environment

On home ground, the Assunta Palliative Care services (AsPACC) offers valuable emotional and spiritual support for the terminally ill and their family members, while the Pastoral Care service provides support to any patients and caregivers who need a listening ear. Apart from that, residents from selected social organisations such as RumahOzanam, RumahJuara, the Assunta Childrens’ society and the National society of st vincent De Paul are entitled to free outpatient treatment to help them reduce healthcare costs.

Moving Ahead

Committed to pioneering healthcare, Assunta also focuses on preventive healthcare apart from practising curative healthcare. This has resulted in the recent launch ofyou@Assunta, a mobile

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app service for patients to book and pay on-the-spot for health screening. A first for Malaysia, you@Assunta is targeted at busy urbanites whoseek “convenience” and ease in making health a priority for themselves and their families. The app is part of the hospital’s initiative to evolve with the times and stay ahead in the healthcare industry says the hospital’s Clinical services Director Dr Lourdes Dava Raj. “Times are changing. People today have tight working schedules and have difficulty finding time to book a health screening. We believe that you@Assunta is what they need, as it allows them to book a health screening any time of the day or night, even after office hours,” Dr Lourdes says. The idea for the app came about when the hospital management

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ENT Specialist Dr Chang Chew Ming examines a patient’s nasal passage for abnormalities

Spine surgeon Dr Chong Chee Seang looks at a patient’s x-rays to determine suitability for X-Lif, a minimally-invasive spine surgery

The Paediatric Wards are decorated with cheerful animations to keep young patients happy and compliant

realised that there is often an overload of patients seeking various treatments or screenings on fridays, saturdays and Mondays. It was discovered that this happens because most people tend to book their appointments on Monday, ending up with an appointment later in the week. With you@Assunta, patients or their caregivers can have better control of their screening schedule. The screening packages on you@Assunta are also priced lower than walk-in rates, offering more savings and reaching out to as many people as possible in today’s tech-savvy world. “With you@Assunta, patients or their caregivers can have better control of their screening schedule,” says Dr Lourdes. Around 20 packages are offered, including full blood tests, chest x-rays, lung function test, pap smear, ultrasound, women and men wellness packages, senior packages and more. you@Assunta can be downloaded at the Apple app store. The hospital continues to push boundaries and enter new frontiers. To learn more, please visit www.assunta. com.my or facebook page @Assunta Hospital Malaysia.

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Shanghai International Ad & Sign Expo 2013

en Electronic Bazaar 2013

Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC), 2345 Long Yang Road, Pudong Area, Shanghai, 201204, China

Singapore Expo, 1 Expo Drive, Singapore, 486150

1 0 - 1 3 J u ly 2 0 1 3

www.sphereexhibits.com.sg

MFE 2013 - Macao Franchise Expo 2013

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Thailand Health and Beauty Show

The Venetian Macao / The Venetian Macao Convention & Exhibition Centre Estrada da Baía de N. Senhora da Esperança, Taipa, Macao SAR, China

Bangkok Convention Centre (Bangkok Centara Grand), 999/99 Rama 1 Road, Pathumwan, Bangkok 10330, Thailand

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http://www.hbsfair.com

http://www.chinaexhibition.com

DairyTek China 2013 Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC), 2345 Long Yang Road, Pudong Area, Shanghai, 201204, China

1 7 - 1 9 J u ly 2 0 1 3

http://www.chinaexhibition.com

The 2nd China (Hangzhou) International Wine & Famous Wine Expo 2013 China Hangzhou Peace International Exhibition Centre, No. 158 Shaoxing Road, Hangzhou, China

1 8 - 2 0 J u ly 2 0 1 3

http://www.chinaexhibition.com

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Thailand Retail Food and Hospitality Services Bangkok International Trade & Exhibition Centre (BITEC), 88 BangnaTrad Road (Km.1), Bangna, Bangkok, Thailand

2 5 - 2 8 J u ly 2 0 1 3

http://www.thailandhoreca.com

Ani-Com & Games Hong Kong Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Island

2 6 - 3 0 J u ly 2 0 1 3 www.ani-com.hk

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Mould Expo 2013 - The 11th China (Beijing) International Die & Mold Manufacturing and Technology Exhibition China International Exhibition Center (CIEC), No. 6 Bei-San-Huan East Road, Beijing, CHINA

08-10 August 2013 http://www.chinaexhibition.com

Hong Kong International Tea Fair Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive Wan Chai, Hong Kong

15-16 August 2013

Hong Kong Food Expo Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 1 Expo Drive, Wan Chai Hong Kong Island

15-19 August 2013 www.hktdc.com/hkfoodexpo

Sarawak Oil and Gas Expo Miri Indoor Stadium, Jalan Sukan Miri, Sarawak 98000, Malaysia

20–22 August 2013 http://www.oilgasexpo.com

REACH NEW

HEIGHTS Africa Outlook is a fantastic platform to share success stories and find ways of growing your business in Africa. To discuss your options contact Ben Weaver ben.weaver@outlookpublishing.com

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