Content creator OGS wins at The Pinwheels awards for third year in a row

Local media company OGS has won again – and for three years in a row, actually – at The Pinwheels. This year, OGS (short for Our Grandfather Story) swept the awards in three categories and took home a total of S$15,000 in production grants.

The categories won by OGS included Content Of The Year Award for the video My Final Farewell Before I Die; Best Non-Fiction (Non-scripted) Video for A Foodie’s Final Night With Pancreatic Cancer; and the big one, Content Creator Of The Year.

A total of 564 entries were submitted by digital content creators to vie for the 10 award categories such as the closely watched Best Newcomer Video, and first-ever Most Artistic Video categories.

“The Pinwheels continues to shine a spotlight on the wealth of creativity we have right here at home and provide our local talents with the recognition they deserve,” said Mediacorp’s Chief Talent Officer, Doreen Neo.

The third edition of The Pinwheels awards, held at Harbourfront Centre on Friday evening (Oct 25), was presented by Bloomr.SG, Mediacorp’s content creator network, and supported by YouTube.

Other than announcing the winners, the night’s event also featured electronic-orchestral musical act From Outer Grey by KoFlow as well as performances by Singaporean dance group D’Kingsman, local singer-songwriter Shye, TikTok artiste Josh Makazo, singer WHYLucas, and samba band Qara Rosa Batucada.

Here is the complete list of winners:

  1. Best Collaboration Video: What To Do And Eat In Kuching, Malaysia!: 4D3N Travel Guide by Overkill Pte Ltd
  2. Best Drama (Scripted) Video: Kidnap Fails by Wah!Banana’
  3. Best Lifestyle Video: The Importance of Documenting my (boring) Life by SeeMin Ng
  4. Best Newcomer Video: Desi Paktor – Singapore’s First Brown Dating Web Series by Tanglish Studios
  5. Best Non-Fiction (Non-Scripted) Video: A Foodie’s Final Fight with Pancreatic Cancer by OGS
  6. Most Artistic Video: B-Greater – SKM feat Wheelsmith, KEYANA by KindnessSG
  7. Most Innovative Video: Singapore’s Energy Story by Just Keep Thinking
  8. Most Social Good Video: This S’porean invites strangers to join her for dances & meals, but why? by Mothership
  9. Content Of The Year: My Final Farewell Before I Die by OGS
  10. Content Creator Of the Year: OGS

You can catch The Pinwheels 2024 awards show on mewatch and Mediacorp Entertainment’s YouTube channel at 8pm on Nov 8.

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Recognising visionary leadership and lasting impact

The Bangkok Post once more honors outstanding leadership and innovation in the business industry. The” Bangkok Post CEO of the Year 2024″ prizes are a testament to our unwavering determination to recognizing excellent authority.

This week’s awards highlight key executives and top leaders whose advice has transformed businesses into symbols of achievement, progress, and green growth, continuing our tradition of honoring creative and inspirational leaders who have reshaped industries and sparked beneficial change.

The awards recognize not only commercial accomplishments but also the important contributions and lasting efforts these leaders have made to society and the economy across a range of categories. These distinctions highlight the impact of their perspective and commitment, from striking tactics to revolutionary leadership.

This time, 15 prizes may be presented, each accompanied by a unique and compelling narrative that captures the government’s enthusiasm. In the upcoming weeks, we will share the stories of these outstanding leaders, highlighting their accomplishments and contributions to moving both their communities and community ahead.

To level the CEO of the Year 2024 news, the Bangkok Post is launching a unique collection today, with regular features on the awarded CEOs– showcasing their accomplishments, business strategies, and encouraging visions, both in print and online.

Mr. Bandhit claimed that Thai Oil is on the verge of great success as a result of changing its enterprise to conform to international megatrends.

Mr. Bandhit claimed that Thai Oil is on the verge of great success as a result of changing its enterprise to conform to international megatrends.

Girding for revolution

The chief executive of Thai Oil has prepared the company for upcoming issues while making sure the workforce’s needs are always at the forefront.

As Thailand transitions toward cleaner energy, Bandhit Thamprajamchit, the company’s chief executive and chairman, is aware of new challenges facing the business as it moves ahead.

He embraces technology and development to ensure the bank’s long-term success while helping Thai Oil change its company strategy in response to growing demand for green energy.

Thai Oil is Thailand’s largest plant and distributor of gas merchandise, producing one of the highest sizes of high-value done petroleum products in Asia-Pacific.

Thai Oil embraces change in order to convert prospective crises into opportunities for growth as it deals with physical challenges like the power transition, the push towards sustainability, advances in artificial intelligence technology, and a statistical shift.

Through its slogan” Empowering Human Life through Sustainable Energy and Chemicals,” Mr. Bandhit made clear that the business was ready to address these physical issues.

Thai Oil has set an aspiration portfolio goal for 2030, which involves reducing the percentage of its petroleum business and high-value petroleum products from 70 % to just 45 % of its overall portfolio. By 2030 the remaing 55 % of the overall portfolio would be made up of the company’s petrochemical business and high-value petrochemical products ( 30 % ), new S-Curve business ( 20 % ), and power business ( 5 % ).

3V Plan

Thai Oil uses three” V’s” to accomplish its objectives and be in line with its total vision, according to Mr. Bandhit, who says the company is aiming to generate the business.

The first” V” refers to benefit maximization, which involves the inclusion of the existing business value ring with the achievement of investment options in the downstream chemical industry as well as the development of high-value products to improve the bank’s competitive capabilities.

This is supported by key business systems, including the Clean Fuel Project ( CFP), and through its investment in PT Chandra Asri Petrochemical Tbk, Indonesia’s largest integrated petroleum company.

The minute’ V’ refers to worth enhancement. According to Mr. Bandhit, this method aims to expand the company’s international areas in order to support a variety of Thai Oil Group items.

In addition to its primary sales center in Thailand, Thai Oil may develop into destination countries that have higher rates of economic and population progress, such as Vietnam, Indonesia and, most recently, India.

The third’ V’ refers to value diversification. Under this strategy, the company will expand its investment into new S-curve businesses that relate to the latest mega-trends, he said.

Parmi the new industries targeted are the chemical industry, which inhibits and eliminates harmful germs, surfactants used in cleaning products ( disinfectants and surfactants ), bio-businesses, and new energy industries, including investment and business creation through corporate venture capital.

3C APPROACH

Through the use of three” C’s,” Thai Oil’s business transformation also includes efforts to reduce its environmental impact.

According to Mr. Bandhit, the business is focusing on achieving its sustainability goals, including achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 and a net-zero target by 2060. The interim goal is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 15 % by 2035.

The first’ C’ refers to reducing Thai Oil’s existing emissions. The company is attempting to put Thai Oil’s current production processes to the best possible use by studying and developing net-zero pathways. This is a priority.

The company aims to make up for the remaining amount of greenhouse gases in the second” C,” according to Mr. Bandhit. The second” C” involves compensating for residual emissions.

The third ‘C’ refers to controlling future emissions. The company wants to control the amount of greenhouse gases by adjusting its portfolio to include a significant proportion of investment in alternative low-carbon businesses and products, aligning with its V strategy. Mr. Bandhit claimed that Thai Oil is on the verge of great success as a result of changing its enterprise to conform to international megatrends.

The chief executive of Thai Oil has developed all aspects of the business and communicated the messaging needed to support these changes. He places an emphasis on satisfying the needs of employees so they can produce high-quality work and live a good life, as he believes in the message behind the slogan” Your Value, Our Priority,” which will help Thai Oil develop consistently and sustainably to become a 100-year-old organization.

Bandhit Thamprajamchit President and Chief Executive Officer of Thai Oil Public Company Limited

Dr. Tanupol stated that he intends to increase the percentage that the wellness segment contributes to the group's overall revenue going forward.

Dr. Tanupol stated that he intends to increase the percentage that the wellness segment contributes to the group’s overall revenue going forward.

BDMS zeroing in on wellness

Company’s operations aim to generate &nbsp, a larger chunk of overall revenue from its preventive &nbsp, and lifestyle medicine services

The chief executive of Bangkok Dusit Medical Services Plc ( BDMS ) Wellness Clinic and BDMS Wellness Resort, better known as Dr. Amp, is a renowned authority on preventive medicine and lifestyle medicine.

Dr. Tanupol continued his education by studying anti-ageing medicine and becoming certified in the American Board of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine after graduating from Siriraj Hospital’s Faculty of Medicine.

Dr. Tanupol has a lot of knowledge in helping patients adjust their lifestyles, particularly in terms of weight management and the treatment of obesity.

Dr Tanupol is also a best-selling author of several health and wellness books, while his YouTube channel– DrAmp Team– now has more than 1 million subscribers.

” My vision is to improve the quality of life for Thais, and people around the world”, he said.

Dr. Tanupol claimed that as the number of people over 60 increases, the world is becoming an aging society.

In Thailand, this segment accounts for more than 20 % of the population, above the global average of 16-17 %, with people aged 60 and above expected to account for 28 % of the Thai population by 2031.

Another challenge facing human health is the prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCD ), including strokes, cardiovascular disease, hypertension, lung disease, and obesity.

In 2023, around 77 % of deaths in Thailand were attributed to NCDs, accounting for 380, 000 deaths per year, which is considered to be extremely high.

Thailand also had the highest incidence of obesity in the area.

BDMS reported revenue of over 100 billion baht in the last year, of which only 10 % was made up of the wellness sector, with the rest coming from the treatment of illnesses.

Dr. Tanupol stated that he intends to increase the percentage that the wellness segment contributes to the group’s overall revenue going forward.

Over the past five years, BDMS ‘ revenue from wellness services has increased by 30 % annually, far exceeding the average of 10 % globally.

BDMS Wellness Clinic operates 19 wellness clinics nationwide, including its headquarters in Bangkok, located in Soi Somkid.

The 15-billion-baht Bangkok facility includes a clinic, the Mövenpick BDMS Wellness Resort Bangkok, BDMS Connect Center, which is a meetings facility, along with a private jet service to meet the needs of wealthy clients.

During this year’s second and third quarters, 60 % of the company’s clients were foreigners, mainly from China or the Middle East, who recognise the BDMS brand as the ideal provider of healthcare and wellness services.

Dr. Tanupol noted that the company also employs a number of employees with extensive hospitality industry experience because they are already well-equipped with a service-oriented mindset to provide clients with their services at the clinics.

” My vision is not only driving revenue, but rather to contribute to society, making Thailand one of the world’s leading wellness destinations”, he said.

Thailand is ranked 15th for wellness tourism in 2022, according to the Global Wellness Institute, and BDMS Wellness Clinic wants to improve its position in the world rankings to be among the top five, he said.

He claimed that the group had already made an additional 25 billion dollars to build a wellness complex in Bangkok in an effort to become the “wellness valley of the world.”

It is estimated that the project, which will feature hotels, clinics, and residential units aimed at people who have chosen to adopt a “wellness lifestyle”, will be completed within five years.

Additionally, the business has just introduced the BDMS Wellness Clinic in Laguna Phuket, which is geared toward Russian-born visitors looking for wellness.

BDMS has invested a lot in research and technology in addition to running a leading healthcare group for more than 50 years.

” Today, every aspect of a person’s medical information can be checked”, said Dr Tanupol.

” Medicine today is not a case of “one size fits all.” It’s all about precision and providing more personalised solutions”.

Advanced technology enables in-depth analysis of personal health factors, including aspects pertaining to hormones, andropause, menopause, stress levels, sleep quality, food and diet, and vitamin and mineral levels.

A complete genome genetic test is also available that can help doctors help you plan a healthy lifestyle and determine a person’s risk of developing a disease later.

Tanupol Virunhagarun is the CEO of BDMS Wellness Clinic and BDMS Wellness Resort.

Thapana Sirivadhanabhakdi.

Thapana Sirivadhanabhakdi.

attempting to create a sustainable future

Thapana Sirivadhanabhakdi of ThaiBev is utilizing Sufficiency Economy principles to promote long-term stability and resilience.

Thai Beverage Public Company Limited ( ThaiBev ), led by Thapana Sirivadhanabhakdi, CEO and president, has grown the business into one of the largest beverage conglomerates in Southeast Asia and has also been a proponent of sustainable business practices.

His direction goes beyond profit, highlighting the crucial role that businesses play in promoting social and environmental responsibility.

Under Mr Thapana’s stewardship, ThaiBev has embraced the philosophy of the Sufficiency Economy, as advocated by His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great, King Rama IX.

By using this strategy, Mr. Thapana has demonstrated that sustainability is a potent force for long-term stability and resilience rather than a stopper of growth.

This philosophy, rooted in moderation, responsible consumption, and environmental care, has become a guiding principle for ThaiBev, serving as a case study on how sustainability can be integrated into business operations.

Beyond his own business, Mr. Thapana has collaborated with the Chaipattana Foundation to promote this philosophy as a social foundation for both families and businesses.

For the past five years, Mr Thapana has spearheaded Sustainable Expo ( SX), Asean’s largest sustainability-focused event. The expo brings together government, private sectors, and civil society to foster collaboration on critical sustainability issues, including carbon emission reduction, environmental protection, and the role of technology in achieving these goals.

SX 2024 marked its most successful year, extending the event from seven to ten days, with over 640, 000 participants both online and offline, surpassing the initial target of 500, 000. Of these attendees, more than 227, 000 were young people aged 18-35, highlighting the growing interest in sustainability among the next generation.

The expo featured insights from over 700 speakers representing 270 organisations, all aiming to find practical solutions to global sustainability challenges.

Remarkably, the event generated over 40 million baht in revenue through community product sales and booth exhibitions. All profits went to social organizations and local communities, and ThaiBev kept the costs low for exhibitors, demonstrating the company’s strong commitment to supporting social causes and social good.

The SX initiative sends a clear message that all industries are eager to learn and take steps toward sustainability. Youths ‘ overwhelming participation reflects their growing awareness of the impact of their actions on the future of the planet and their place in it, according to Mr. Thapana, who cited the success of the event.

” Collaboration are crucial for the dimensions of sustainability. We must prioritise the five ‘ P’s– planet, people, prosperity, partnership and peace, to truly drive sustainable progress”, he said.

Mr Thapana credits much of his business acumen to his father, Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi, the founder of ThaiBev. He learned the importance of” consistency and resilience” in business, especially in times of economic uncertainty.

” If you’re committed to something, you have to continually adjust and solve problems, no matter how small, without giving up”, Mr Thapana shared.

Ethics are also a cornerstone of Mr Thapana’s approach to business. He firmly believes that businesses must collaborate with their partners without petty customers or suppliers.

” Unethical practices destroy sustainability”, he says, underscoring that ethical conduct is key to long-term business success.

Mr Thapana’s success lies in his ability to balance growth with sustainability. He emphasises three key elements– awareness, mindfulness, and adaptability.

First, businesses must stay aware of “disruptions” in the marketplace by understanding consumer behaviour and megatrends. Second, mindfulness and thoughtful decision-making are essential for sustaining both growth and environmental responsibility.

Finally, adaptability is essential to navigating the rapidly evolving global technology and environmental challenges.

Thapana Sirivadhanabhakdi’s leadership reflects a deep commitment to not only building a thriving business but also making a lasting, positive impact on society. The Bangkok Post proudly recognizes him as CEO of the Year in Sustainability Impact Leadership for his remarkable contributions and acknowledges his leadership in shaping a more sustainable future for ThaiBev and society.

Thai Beverage Plc.’s Chief Executive Officer of Thapana SirivadhanabhakdiGroup

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Singapore kitefoiler Max Maeder awarded S0,000 for historic bronze at Paris Olympics

An athlete may be awarded S$ 1 million for an Olympic metal, S$ 500, 000 for a magic and S$ 250, 000 for a copper. Swimming champion Joseph Schooling, who won the 100-meter butterfly at the 2016 Rio Olympics, was the only athlete to receive the best prize.

All players are required to donate a portion of their MAP accolades to their individual National Sports Associations for upcoming training and development. In Maeder’s situation, he will need to provide 20 per cent of his reward money, or S$ 50, 000, to the Singapore Sailing Federation. &nbsp,

The MAP prizes are also deductible.

” The Olympic Games represent the pinnacle of sporting success, where the country’s finest athletes gather not just to thrive, but to represent the highest ideals of superiority, compassion and respect”, said SNOC leader Grace Fu, who is also Minister for Sustainability and the Environment.

” Our players in Paris did just that – representing Singapore with passion, endurance and unwavering dedication.

They stood tall on the country’s biggest level and carried the hopes of a country.

Edwin Tong, the minister for society, society, and youth, Yeo Jia Min and Amita Berthier, as well as Maeder’s families, Hwee Keng and Valentin, were also present at the event.

A full of 23 players represented Singapore at the Paris Olympics, with 15, including Maeder, making their Games debut.

MAEDER’S STANDOUT YEAR

Maeder’s brass was Singapore’s fifth Olympic award and meant that he became the country’s youngest Games medallist. He ended&nbsp, Singapore’s eight-year rush for an Olympic floor finish&nbsp, since Schooling won gold in 2016. &nbsp,

He is even Singapore’s first Olympian sailing champion.

The 18-year-old, who is the nation’s top-ranked kitefoiler, has been in beautiful shape this time. Maeder won five straight titles, including the world finals where he defended his name, before taking to the ocean for the Olympics.

He has continued in a similar spirit post-Olympics.

In September, Maeder&nbsp, won the&nbsp, Hungarian foot of the KiteFoil World Series&nbsp, and followed that up by&nbsp, winning the&nbsp, 2024 Formula Kite Asian Championships&nbsp, in Daishan, China.

The following quarter, he retained his&nbsp, IKA KiteFoil World Series&nbsp, name after winning its European foot, before topping the empty event at&nbsp, Formula Kite Youth European Championships in Sardinia, Italy.

At the Singapore Sports Awards in June, &nbsp, the&nbsp, Asian Games metal medallist&nbsp, took the Sportsboy of the Year dignity for the fourth consecutive time.

Maeder is likewise among&nbsp, the contenders for the inaugural&nbsp, Young World Sailor of the Year award&nbsp, at the 2024 World Sailing Awards.

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Seamless events, memorable experiences: Redefine event tech management with Dreamory

Simplify your events: Easy registration, interesting experiences, intelligent attendee management, and incisive behavior analysis

The team at Dreamory

Imagine hosting an event where the last clapping is immediately followed by registrations like a clock. No tension, no chaos—just natural, smooth murder. That’s the kind of knowledge Dreamory Group delivers.

The company’s function technology is designed with a human-centred method, ensuring smooth event planning and execution while delivering an unprecedented visitor experience. When event organizers themselves, the Dreamory staff is aware of the difficulties faced by experts in the field. Dreamory is revolutionizing how activities are created and experienced by improving operations and utilizing cutting-edge engineering.

Their revolutionary blend of inventive design and technology ensures that your event stands out from the crowd, whether it’s a product release fad or a busy event.

Seamless events, memorable experiences: Redefine event tech management with Dreamory

Say Goodbye to Long Queues with the Ultimate Event Check-in Software!
Dreamory Group Sdn Bhd offers function technology called Blue Lobby, according to Amanda Ng, co-founder and COO. With its user-friendly software, fast QR check-ins, and visitor portals that make your event organizing process simple,” Blue Lobby is all about improving event control,” she says.

The business won the Best Pivot Growth Company nomination earlier this year at the third version of the Best In Tech Innovation Awards, showcasing their outstanding Event Tech hinge and adaptability to a changing market.

Seamless events, memorable experiences: Redefine event tech management with Dreamory
Stage Up Your Occasion: Fast, Sleek, and Custom Check-in Kiosks!

Now, the team is buzzing with enjoyment as they showcase their latest innovation—full-service check-in shops! These shops are n’t really useful, they’re a game-changer for function organisers. Imagine having a modern, sleek kiosk that can print title badges on the spot and handle check-ins to properly complement the theme of your event. Whether you’re going for a beautiful, attractive, or modern look, these shops adapt to your eyesight. It’s quick, it’s easy, and it adds a touch of elegance to render your event stand out. Who knew occasion check-ins could be this excitement?

Seamless events, memorable experiences: Redefine event tech management with Dreamory

What’s next for Dreamory?
With a perspective to develop customer-centric technologies that promotes global availability and creative wedding, the company is constantly innovating. Their most recent products include engaging function features like engaging lucky draws, interesting product launch gimmicks, and digital signing walls to keep attendees entertained. Dreamory does n’t just handle the logistics—they create experiences attendees will never forget.

Ready to enhance your future event into a showstopper? Join Dreamory and watch the magic happen. Schedule your 30-minute video today to get a firsthand look at the event technology future. Visit https ://dreamorygroup.com and connect with them on Facebook, Instagram, and Linked In.

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Singapore’s Max Maeder nominated for young sailor of the year at 2024 World Sailing Awards

SINGAPORE: &nbsp, Singapore kitefoiler Max Maeder is among the contenders for the inaugural&nbsp, Young World Sailor of the Year award&nbsp, at the 2024 World Sailing Awards. The 18-year-old is in a brilliant artery of form, &nbsp, clinching&nbsp, copper at the Paris Olympics, when properly as&nbsp, winning the&nbsp, 2024 IKA KiteFoilContinue Reading

14,000 homes to be built in new housing areas at Sembawang North and Woodlands North Coast

SINGAPORE: Two innovative cover areas in Sembawang and Woodlands may be developed to provide about 14, 000 new houses, including 12, 000 people cover cottages.

At the Housing and Development Board ( HDB) awards ceremony on Tuesday ( October 22 ), Minister for National Development Desmond Lee revealed the plans for Sembawang North and Woodlands North Coast.

The first Build-to-Order ( BTO ) projects in these two housing areas will be launched in 2025, with the rest to follow progressively, HDB said in its press release on Tuesday. &nbsp,

This will provide a sizable supply of affordable housing for Singaporeans looking to live in the north, mainly for families who want to stay close to their parents for assistance and joint care, it added.

According to HDB, the two new housing regions will expand the great geographical distribution of public housing in order to meet Singaporeans ‘ diverse needs.

SEMBAWANG NORTH

Sembawang North will be a 53ha page within the city of Sembawang. It will offer about 10, 000 cover units- 8, 000 BTO flats and 2, 000 secret housing units when thoroughly developed, said HDB.

Given its role as the British Naval Center in the 1920s and subsequent Sembawang Shipyard, the housing development may reflect the city’s maritime heritage and colonial architecture.

The BTO initiatives will incorporate design elements like courtyard designs, pitched roofs, and striking geometric designs, taking inspiration from imperial bungalows.

Nautical factors will also be incorporated into Sembawang North” to build community areas that reflect the unique history of the area,” according to HDB.

” The houses in Sembawang North will be well-served by a complete range of features, ensuring a superior living environment for both current and upcoming inhabitants of Sembawang. &nbsp,

” To provide greater ease and convenience for people, there are plans to develop fresh commercial services, care providers, schools, and places of worship,” HDB said.

Additionally, there will be additional clean and outdoor areas that will provide residents with leisure opportunities.

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Actor Christopher Lee, singer Tanya Chua win at Taiwan’s prestigious Golden Bell Awards

Malaysia-born, Singapore-based actor Christopher Lee, 53, nabbed his fourth Golden Bell Award at the annual awards ceremony in Taipei on Saturday ( Oct 19 ), coming out tops in good old sibling rivalry.

Christopher’s win for Best Leading Actor in a Miniseries or Television Film beat out his younger nephew, 48-year-old Indonesian professional Frederick Lee, who was competing in the same type.

However, Singaporean singer-songwriter Tanya Chua was the happy recipient of her first Golden Bell Award after 27 years in the entertainment industry. She won with Best Original Song. &nbsp,

The awards service, generally regarded as Taiwan’s similar to the Emmys, is Taiwan’s most prominent honours show recognising TV and radio functions. Saturday’s meeting marked its 59th time running.

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Le Sserafim: The K-pop band who want to change the industry from within

Getty Images K-pop band Le Sserafim pose at the top of the Empire State Building in New York while promoting their fourth mini-album, CrazyGetty Images

Hong Eunchae, the youngest part of K-Pop group Le Sserafim, is strutting through Seoul’s legendary Nakwon Instrument Arcade when she suddenly loses her standing.

With a fall, her drink flies into the atmosphere and the 17-year-old falls head-first down a metal stair, getting with a sickening thud on a train surface.

There’s a delay. Finally she sits up with a sigh, fully unharmed, as though this is how she generally navigates the steps.

Instantly meme-able, the scene features in the trailer for Le Sserafim’s third EP, Easy, which was released earlier this year. But Eunchae says it also carries a deeper meaning.

” When I’m following the path I want to follow, tumbling and falling down does n’t matter”, she tells the BBC.

” I usually start over like nothing has happened. That’s the information I wanted to deliver”.

Cause Music Le Sserafim are surrounded by bolts of lightning and sparks of electricity in a promotional photo supplied by their record labelCause Music

Since Le Sserafim were thrust into the spotlight two years ago, for disobedience and perseverance have helped them cut out a market.

With the eccentric energy of Girls Aloud and the impeccable hooks of the Korean pop machine, they’ve released grungy, club-ready songs like Crazy and Antifragile, been nominated for multiple MTV Awards, and collaborated with Nile Rodgers and PinkPantheress.

To a relaxed watcher, the band might seem like the design child group: Coiffed, choreographed and bristling with confidence.

However, they’re surprisingly direct about the unattainable requirements that the business places on women.

On Eve, Psyche and Bluebeard’s Wife (a song named after three women who defied societal expectations), rapper and singer Kim Chaewon speaks about the pressure to perform, even when you’re not at your best.

“Smile bigger for the crowd/ Shut up, shut up, now shut your feelings out.”

On Good Bones, Huh Yunjin snaps back at her critics.

“You think it’s OK to degrade someone/ Just because they’re true to themselves?” she protests over a spiky rock riff.

” As a group, we’re always trying to show that paradox of being sturdy but also being vulnerable”, Yunjin explains.

” But no matter what happens, we’ve got each other and that gives us tenacity”.

Getty Images Le Sserafim play on stage at the Coachella festival in California, with their arms in the "strong man" poseGetty Images

Le Sserafim have an unusual origin story, with members drawn from all over the world at different ages and stages of readiness by their label Cause Music.

Sakura Miyawaki is a showbusiness senior, with expertise in three different bands- KT48, AKB48 and Iz*One.

Aged 26, she’s the oldest Sserafim, and Yunjin calls her” a wall” of power who “always has great tips” about the business.

Chaewon was likewise part of Iz*One, and acts as Le Sserafim’s head, a position she characterises as being” a stone” who “makes all easy” when difficulties arise.

Yunjin was raised in New York and studied opera before entering the rigorous world of K-pop training. By contrast, Eunchae only had 15 months of preparation before making her official debut in 2022. Aged 17, she is nicknamed Manchae – a portmanteau of her name and maknae (막내), the Korean word for “youngest member”.

Previous dancer Nakamura Kazuha, who was swept out of the Dutch National Ballet Academy five times before Le Sserafim’s debut second, was the last to visit. To this day, she feels like she’s playing catch-up with the rest of the staff.

” It’s been two years but every day is a new issue still”, she says.

There was initially a fifth part. Kim Garam made her debut EP, Brave, but she resigned soon after being accused of bullying kids in high school.

Le Sserafim also encountered a few obstacles along the way.

The group apologized earlier this year for allegedly having vocal issues during a California effectiveness at Coachella. Chaewon responded to negative media by claiming that the team had just “become excited and lost handle of our speed” while staging their initial outdoor festival.

A recent behind-the-scenes documentary, Make It Look Easy, exposed more about the pressures the band faced promoting their first album, Unforgiven, last year.

In one scene, Chaewon breaks down in tears and confesses:” I do n’t really know how to be happy”.

” To be honest, I often think about quitting”, she tells an off-camera examiner.

Kazuha also has fears about her acting prowess.

” Sometimes I get super-confident and I’m like,’ I should work harder. I can do this'”, she says. ” But then I lose confidence and I’m like,’ I ca n’t do anything. I have no appeal'”.

Not your typical figurine to sing with.

Yunjin is more flaming. Her British culture gives her a unique perspective on K-Pop’s “idol” economy, and she’s expressed a desire to change it from within.

” Gods need to do this, do that. There are all these unspoken laws”, she says in the film.

” I could feel it when I was a apprentice, but back then I desperately wanted to]make my ] debut, so I only conformed. But after launching I was like,’ Why does it have to be like this?'”

She expresses her frustrations in a single track called I-Doll, which expressly criticizes how products are made of pop stars.

“They pick apart my body and throw the rest away,” she sings. “Idol doesn’t mean your doll to [expletive] with.”

In the past, the 23-year-old has declared she wants to” change the idol industry”, breaking down its” strict standards one by one”.

Le Sserafim purposefully challenge the status quo, which demands efficiency, by being open about their problems, and do so at a time when K-pop musicians are increasingly willing to confront the program.

Earlier this week, a singer with girl group NewJeans testified to South Korea’s National Assembly about the bullying she has faced at work. Last year, the 11 members of Omega X won emancipation from their contract following allegations of “unwarranted treatment” by their label.

Cause Music Le Sserafim promotional shotCause Music

Le Sserafim – who have the full support of Cause Music – put a more positive spin on their story.

Chaewon says the information we wanted to convey through the film was not that our task is difficult and laborious.

Instead, we wanted to draw attention to the fact that we share a lot of similarities with those who continue to work.

” We want to say that you do n’t have to be perfect all the time”, adds Yunjin.

” All faces troubles”, Chaewon concludes. ” So our communication is, this defeat all those troubles together”.

In a cursory market, they make a morality of their errors, projecting them as a power.

Yet the singer’s title is an alias of the word” I’m Fearless”.

Cause Music Members of Le Sserafim are pictured laughing and holding light guns as they enjoy some downtime.Cause Music

Their camaraderie is expressed in songs like Chasing Lightning – where Yunjin is teased for her obsession with Greek yoghurt, and Sakura describes her love of crochet – and their latest single, 1-800 Hot N Fun.

It follows the strap on a day away, kissing strange neighbors, demanding the DJ play Beyoncé, and clinging to the dancing floor until sunrise with a serpentine bass guitar riff.

” I love that song”, says Yunjin. ” It’s almost like a speech, we’re merely all having a talk”.

In the hook, the bandmates keep asking, “Where the heck is Saki?” – their nickname for Sakura – before someone responds, “She’s waiting down in the lobby.”

Does that mean Sakura’s always the first to get set?

“Wow! Wow!” exclaims Yunjin. “That’s actually true! That’s the first time we’ve thought about it that way. That’s genius.”

There wo n’t be much time for partying this year, though. Enthusiasts have speculated that Le Sserafim are working on a novel EP, which would complete a trio of produces called Easy, Crazy, and Popular, while speaking to the BBC in the middle of a long time of TV performances.

The title was mentioned in the Great Bones phrases, but Yunjin skillfully abseits divulging any information.

” Will it even been called Popular? We do n’t know”? she laughs.

” It might be cool, it might be nice. But whatever we come out with, it’ll become flames”.

Based on the evidence thus way, there’s no reason to doubt it… as long as Eunchae avoids stairs.

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IDECS 2024 concludes with initiatives to drive Sarawak’s sustainable digital future

  • 5 victors of Digital Economy Awards 2024 were presented with US$ 2, 300 each
  • signed MoUs with Macro Tech Ventures and Yayasan Hasanah to help local Enterprises

IDECS 2024 concludes with initiatives to drive Sarawak’s sustainable digital future

The Sarawak Government, together with the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation, Sarawak Multimedia Authority, and Sarawak Information Systems, hosted the 7th International Digital Economy Conference Sarawak ( IDECS) 2024, gathering over 2, 500 participants to explore the impact of artificial intelligence ( AI ) in driving sustainable development.

Under the style” AI for Sustainable Development: Navigating the Green and Circular Future”, the occasion concluded after two weeks of debate and meetings. The conference, which took place between October 16 and October 2017, focused on the impact of AI on green technologies and circular economies, as well as learning from experts in the field of artificial intelligence ( AI ) for sustainability.

Haji Julaihi Haji Narawi, the minister for energy and telecommunications in Sarawak, acknowledged the importance IDECS plays in establishing organizations that are crucial to Sarawak’s financial growth. He continued,” In the past, IDECS has played a significant role in the development of significant organizations like the Sarawak Multimedia Authority and the Sarawak Digital Economy Corporation. These organizations have played a significant role in the development of initiatives and policies to advance Sarawak’s online business method.

At the closing gala dinner, the Digital Economy Awards ( DEA ) 2024, organised for the third time by Sarawak Multimedia Authority, were presented to recipients across five categories, each receiving a prize of US$ 2, 300 ( RM10, 000 ). The finalists include:

    Research &amp, Development Award: Universiti Malaysia Sarawak for developing a smartphone-based diabetes vision screening technique using profound understanding, with fantastic potential for remote care.

  • Evolving Brilliance Technologies Sdn Bhd for POMAS, a approach optimum control system used in the agriculture and coal credit industries, received a Technology Startup Award that coincides with Sarawak’s electric push.
  • MyContent Distribution Sdn Bhd, which promotes the local movie business and helps Sarawak videos get worldwide exposure through platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime, is awarded the Micro Small Medium Enterprises Award.
  • Digital Government Award: Sarawak Civil Service Digitalisation Unit for its SCS Mobile initiative, enhancing government services ‘ digital transformation for greater transparency and efficiency.
  • Sustainability Award: Sarawak Forest Department for its Greening Sarawak Campaign, which incorporates AI and satellite systems for forest landscape restoration and aims to grow 35 million branches by 2025.

Additionally, the Premier’s Digital Economy Award, worth US$ 4, 600 ( RM20, 000 ), was awarded to a winner selected from the recipients of these categories. The award was established to recognize electronic initiatives that use AI to change Sarawak into a leading online society. Participants from various industries, including public and private industries, GLCs, Institutes of Higher Learning, NGOs, and individuals, were assessed based on factors such as online strategy development, project implementation, technology, and multi-stakeholder engagement.

Memorandums of Understanding ( MOUs ) with partners Yayasan Hasanah and Macro Tech Ventures were also included at IDECS 2024 to support local MSMEs and advance digital transformation. Another significant events included the Huawei-sponsored Digital Art Festival and video lessons for the Founder’s Forge and Capture the Flag programs, which emphasized youth involvement in innovation and security.

The prizes are” not only about honoring accomplishments but also about inspiring potential technology.” Sarawak’s online future lies in the hands of thinkers, inventors, and entrepreneurs – those who dare to think differently, work, and push the envelope in way that will bring about lasting change”, said Haji Julaihi.

” Through categories such as the Micro Small Medium Enterprise ( MSMEs ) Award, the Research &amp, Development Award, the Technology Start-Up Award, the Digital Government Award, and the Sustainability Award, we are shining a spotlight on those leading the charge in these critical areas”, he added.

Earlier in the day, witnessed by Roland Sagah, Minister for Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Sarawak, more Accords were signed, aimed at empowering regional MSMEs and driving online change. Yayasan Hasanah, Macro Tech Ventures Sdn Bhd, and Dynamik Technologies Sdn Bhd, among others, were the partners in the partnerships.

The immersive Huawei-sponsored Digital Art Festival was also available to school students and the general public. For the Founder’s Forge and Capture the Flag programs, there were demo and pitching sessions, among other notable activities. Founder’s Forge is a six-month pre-accelerator initiative aimed at early-stage entrepreneurs in Sarawak, emphasising innovation and business development, with pitches highlighting their progress. Meanwhile, Capture the Flag, a cybersecurity hackathon organised by Curtin University Malaysia and SDEC, provided insights into ethical hacking through real-time problem-solving.

Both programmes focused on fostering youth engagement in ethical, human-centred technological innovation and advancement.

In Haji Julaihi Narawi’s keynote speech, he underscored the vital role of innovation and digital transformation in Sarawak’s future, highlighting the Government’s ongoing efforts to harness AI and big data to drive economic growth, social inclusivity, and environmental sustainability under the Sarawak Post Covid-19 Development Strategy and Sarawak Digital Economy Blueprint 2030.

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Nobel economics prize awards notion of Western supremacy – Asia Times

For their significant contributions to how organizations influence economic growth, Daron Acemoglu, Simon Johnson, and James Robinson were each awarded the 2024 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economics. Some may argue that it was long overdue to honor these scientists the Nobel.

One of the most frequently mentioned in finance is the document that served as the foundation for their work. Acemoglu and Robinson’s following book, Why Governments Fail, has also been enormously important.

Congratulations are in order in that regard because these works have sparked a lively discussion about the relationship between cultural institutions and economic development. They have even drawn a lot of censure, though. It is appropriate to identify the flaws in their analysis in the wake of the award.

The most significant criticism centers on the relationship between a nation’s level of social development and the quality of its political institutions. Acemoglu, Johnson and Robinson’s job split organisations into two groups: “inclusive” and “extractive”.

Equitable institutions – such as those that enforce property privileges, protect politics and control corruption – foster economic growth, according to the laureates. In contrast, industrial institutions, which give rise to a higher concentration of power and limited social freedom, get to focus resources in the hands of a tiny elite and therefore stifle socioeconomic development.

The winners assert that the establishment of diverse establishments has had a beneficial long-term impact on economic growth. In fact, these organizations are present mainly in high-income nations in the west.

A big problem with this study, however, is the state that certain organizations are a requirement for economic growth.

Mushtaq Khan, a professor of economics at Soas, University of London, has analysed Acemoglu, Johnson and Robinson’s work thoroughly. He contends that it primarily demonstrates that today’s high-income nations perform better on institutional standards from the West, rather than that economic growth was achieved as a result of the establishment of inclusive institutions by state.

In fact, there are numerous instances of nations growing quickly without having these diverse organizations in place as a prerequisite for development. South Asian states such as Singapore, South Korea and Taiwan are good examples. Most lately, so too is China.

The problem epidemic in China during the development process was detailed in Yuen Yuen Ang’s award-winning books on the subject. In response to this year’s Nobel Prize, Ang went so far as to claim that the laureates ‘ theory does not adequately account for growth in both China and the West. She makes the case that during the creation process in the US, establishments were smeared with corruption.

Ignoring the cruelty of colonization

Governments are not bad to do some of the diverse organizations outlined in Acemoglu, Johnson and Robinson’s job. Another alarming aspect of their research is that it legitimizes American institutions and, at worst, colonialism and colonization.

Their job has, however, been criticized for not paying attention to the cruelty of imperialism. To know this criticism, we must dig a little deeper into their procedures.

The laureates establish their state by comparing settler colonies to non-settler colonies for long-term development. In resident provinces, such as the US, Canada and Australia, Europeans established diverse institutions. But in non-settler provinces, which include large pieces of Africa and Latin America, Europeans established industrial organizations.

Acemoglu, Johnson and Robinson place out that, over time, settler provinces do better. Western institutions are therefore better for growth, they argue.

However, it’s a secret that the laureates do not explain colonization in more general terms given that the process of colonization is a key component of their papers.

Years of murder, in many cases evoking the genocide of local populations, predated the development of such institutions yet in settler colonies, where equitable institutions were gradually established. Should n’t this be taken into account when developing?

An illustration showing changing economic fortunes.
According to this year’s awardees, Europeans settled in the poorest and most poorly crowded areas, and introduced organizations that contributed to long-term success. Johan Jarnestad / Nobel Prize Outreach

Instead of arguing whether imperialism is good or bad, Acemoglu said,” We note that different colonial methods have resulted in different institutional trends that have persisted over moment,” the awardee added.

Why does Acemoglu not care whether imperialism is good or bad, as some might discover from this statement? But for those familiar with the inner workings of the economics discipline, this statement does n’t come as a surprise.

Unfortunately, the absence of a ethical glass or value judgments has unfortunately become a badge of honor in mainstream economics. This is a more important aspect of the discipline, which in turn explains why economy has become more remote and isolated from different social sciences.

The Nobel prize in economics, which really was n’t among the five original Nobel awards, also illustrates this problem. The list of previous winners is small in terms of both geographical and organisational scope, primarily made up of economists who are graduates of economics faculties at a select few elite US universities.

Additionally, a recent study found that economics awards are much more concentrated in the administrative and regional areas than in other academic areas. Nearly all of the major award winners have had to travel through one of the major US institutions ( with a cap of less than ten ) throughout their careers.

This month’s Nobel Prize in economics is no exception. Perhaps this is why it seems like each year the winner is chosen over those who ask “how does a change in changing X affect variable Y” rather than posing complex questions about colonialism, imperialism, or capitalism and waging a challenge on the legitimacy of European institutions.

Jostein Hauge is associate professor in development research, University of Cambridge

The Conversation has republished this post under a Creative Commons license. Read the original content.

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