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Emcee Singapore: Charmaine hosted the SICW Summit which was graced by distinguished guests, including the Guest of Honour, Mr. Teo Chee Hean, Senior Minister and Coordinating Minister for National Security, Singapore. Other dignitaries included Ms. Josephine Teo Minister for Communications and Information, Minister-in-charge of the Cyber Security Agency and Smart Nation Initiative, as well as Ms. Izumi Nakamitsu, United Nations Under-Secretary-General and High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, alongside various Excellencies and other distinguished guests. The SICW Summit served as the platform for discussions centered around the theme, “Building Trust and Security in the Emerging Digital Order.” Under-Secretary-General Nakamitsu and Chief Executive Mr. David Koh facilitated a vibrant discussion during the event. They explored the critical aspect of building trust in an increasingly interconnected cyber world, emphasizing the necessity for engagement among various stakeholders and across borders. Emcee Charmaine encouraged all the participants to continue their important conversations throughout the evening and interact with fellow guests, fostering an atmosphere of collaboration and shared insights. The SICW Summit played a pivotal role in addressing the challenges and opportunities in the ever-evolving digital landscape, underlining the importance of trust and security in this emerging digital era.

Emcee Singapore: Charmaine hosted the Opening Ceremony of Singapore International Cyber Week 2023, Asia-Pacific’s most established cybersecurity event, attended by 10,000 global policy makers, thought leaders and industry experts from over 40 countries. It was graced by Deputy Prime Minister and Coordinating Minister for Economic Policies, Mr. Heng Swee Keat and attended by Minister Mrs. Josephine Teo. The eighth edition of the SICW explored the impact of digital developments on the global multilateral order, and how security can be developed to enable trust in the digital and cyber space, under the theme of “Building Trust and Security in the Emerging Digital Order.” The event brought together 10,000 global policy makers, industry leaders and top academia from across the world to exchange best practices and strengthen international cooperation on topics ranging from harnessing digital opportunities and tackling cyber challenges and the evolution of cyberspace and cybersecurity policy. DPM Heng announced that the Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) would be establishing separate cooperative efforts with Microsoft and Google on national cyber defence and cybersecurity. The Memoranda of Understanding will facilitate cyber threat intelligence sharing, joint operations to combat cybercrime and malicious cyber activity, exchanges on emerging and critical technologies, such as artificial intelligence, as well as capacity building efforts. DPM Heng also reaffirmed Singapore’s commitment to do its part to contribute to cybersecurity capacity building. DPM Heng announced the launch of the SG Cyber Leadership and Alumni Programme, a structured programme to cater to participants at different stages of their cybersecurity journey. To support this new Programme, Singapore’s earlier funding commitment of $30 million for cyber capacity building will be extended by another three years, from 2024 to 2026. Mr. David Koh, Chief Executive of CSA, said, “Cyber defence is a team effort. Big Tech plays a key role in shaping our digital terrain and are therefore important partners in cyber defence and cybersecurity. We look forward to working closely with Microsoft and Google to advance our shared mission of building a safer cyberspace for all users”. Emcee Singapore Charmaine Yee also introduced the SICW Opening Plenary on a series of three high-level panels covering the key cybersecurity issues of today – multilateralism, tech bifurcation and big tech and government. Delegates gleaned keen insights from the diverse and experienced group of panellists who shared their perspectives on each of these topics. For more information, please visit: CSA Collaborates with Microsoft and Google to Strengthen National Cyber Defence and Cybersecurity

Emcee Singapore: Charmaine hosted a panel discussion on how individuals can plan for the future and navigate the challenges of caring for both aging parents and children while planning for the future. In the session with Seow Ling, Associate Director of Eden Law Corporation, Weirong, Senior Deputy Director for Nominations and Accounts Closure Department in CPF Board and Dawn, also fondly known as SG Budget Babe, Charmaine kicked off the discussion on a topic that’s close to the hearts of many of us – balancing the responsibilities of caring for aging parents while raising children. On legacy planning, the three panelists shared their views and advice on careful planning and preparation of our loved ones’ needs today, and ensuring they are taken care of in the future. Professional Help: Seow Ling talked about designating a Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), setting up Advanced Care Planning (ACP), to plan for long-term care options. Discussions touched on legal matters such as ensuring that assets and responsibilities are clearly defined and transferred when necessary. Overcoming Inertia: As Asian families find the topic of legacy planning uncomfortable, emcee Singapore Charmaine asked Dawn how she opened an honest conversation with her family members. Dawn talked about the strategies she used e.g. involving a professional such as a doctor or a lawyer to overcome inertia, and elaborated on some of the challenges and obstacles she faced along the way. CPF Nomination: On the question posed by Charmaine on the importance of CPF nomination, Weirong reminded us to review our plans periodically so as to ensure it continues to align with our wishes and intentions. He emphasized the CPF Board’s efforts to facilitate the nomination process, making it easy and convenient. Comprehensive Planning: Seow Ling highlighted potential pitfalls and the role of professionals, such as lawyers and estate planners, in legacy planning, emphasizing the importance of seeking expert guidance in complex estate matters. Emcee Singapore Charmaine had an enlightening discussion that offered a holistic perspective of the challenges faced by the sandwiched generation. It is a topic that is highly relevant to modern society as it reflects the evolving dynamics of family life and the need for comprehensive planning. Charmaine also invited individuals interested in finding out more about legacy planning to check out the activity booths including the booth by MyLegacy@SG outside the event hall. For more information, please check out : Legacy Planning for the Sandwiched Generation (youtube.com)

Emcee Singapore: Charmaine extended a warm welcome to the distinguished guests attending the 10-year celebration of the iconic hotel-in-a-garden. The event featured a memorable culinary experience with a sumptuous dinner menu reflecting the hotel’s eco-conscious dining commitment. Ingredients were locally sourced or harvested from the hotel’s Urban Farm, enhancing the farm-to-table experience. Guests enjoyed entertainment and music throughout the evening, including a Trivia game hosted by Emcee Singapore Charmaine, with winners receiving large terrarium pieces. A highlight was a dazzling violinist performance, creatively depicting the hotel’s decade-long journey of eco elegance. Charmaine Yee thanked guests for celebrating the hotel’s 10-year anniversary, highlighting its commitment to excellence and sustainability.

Emcee Singapore: Charmaine had an insightful conversation with the talented content creator and product designer, Zi Hao Low, who is on the cutting edge of innovation in the world of art and design. Zi Hao Low started his artistic journey at a very young age and quickly realized his passion for creating. He began his first art project at just 14 years old, setting the stage for his progressive career in the world of art and design. After an assignment at the School of the Arts Singapore, where he didn’t quite follow the project brief but delivered something extraordinary, Zi Hao pursued a degree in the School of Art, Design at Nanyang Technological University. His dedication to his craft led him to found Para ( ) Studios. One of the standout aspects of Zi Hao’s approach is his commitment to ongoing learning and exploration. He firmly believes that acquiring new skills and having a growth mindset are crucial for personal growth and creating meaningful work. Charmaine delved into Zi Hao’s journey into 3D printing. It began in 2021, and he quickly realized its importance in rapid prototyping for his design projects. He designed and showcased a 3D-printed KISS logo with his signature, highlighting the versatility of 3D printing as a creative tool. Beyond art and design, Zi Hao has used 3D printing for practical purposes around the house, from making towel hooks to finger brace for his mother’s tendonitis. He has plans for more unconventional projects, like custom-fit clothing and accessories. As an owner of a printing farm with 16 printers, Zi Hao is well-equipped to explore various materials and applications in 3D printing that engage both senses of ‘touch’ and ‘sight’. He’s also experimenting with alternatives to traditional 3D printing. Charmaine asked about his multi-disciplinary collaborations with different companies. Zi Hao explained that he customizes solutions to meet the specific needs of his clients, making his design studio, Para ( ) Studios, a valuable resource. Materials play a significant role in Zi Hao’s work, and he has a fascination with paper’s fragility and strength. He incorporates elements of both 3D printing and origami in his projects, creating unique and visually stunning pieces. While Zi Hao doesn’t have a specific mentor, he relies on experimentation, online communities and YouTube tutorials to refine his skills. He has a fellow origami enthusiast from Egypt who shares his journey, making their collaboration a source of motivation and inspiration. On what gives Zi Hao the most satisfaction in his work, he revealed that it is the creative process, from designing in 3D software to physically assembling the modules into the final sculpture. It’s a testament to his dedication to pushing the boundaries of art and design. Charmaine had a fascinating conversation with Zi Hao Low, a bold visionary in the world of 3D art and spatial design. Looking ahead, Zi Hao believes that 3D printers will become more affordable and accessible, paving the way for even more exciting possibilities at the intersection of art and technology.

Emcee Singapore: Charmaine hosted a very engaging and informative session on retirement planning and leveraging CPF savings for financial goals at the “Building a strong foundation to achieve your retirement goals”. She moderated the hour-long session with panelists David Chua, Managing Director of Bank of Singapore, Thomas Ang, Founder, Steady Compounding and Ong Woei Jiin, Director (Retirement Savings), CPF Board. Charmaine delved into a wide range of topics from securing retirement goals to making informed financial decisions. The key takeaways from the discussion were: Define Your Retirement Lifestyle: The first step in retirement planning is to determine what kind of lifestyle you want during retirement. Having a clear vision helps set realistic financial goals aligned with your aspirations. Woei Jiin added that retirement may not be an ‘end’ but a next stage in life with more focus on choosing to do what’s fulfilling, and being physically and mentally active in ‘refirement’. Different Financial Goals: Each individual may have unique financial goals, but it’s essential to have a clear plan in place to work towards them. David shared that he has half-yearly process to review his financial goals with his spouse. This joint commitment helps to estimate the amount of money needed to retire comfortably. These are crucial in managing expenses, such as food, utilities, insurance premium, phone and medical, and saving habits effectively. Leveraging CPF Savings: Maximise savings in the various CPF accounts: Regular voluntary housing refunds to take advantage of attractive CPF interest rates. Topping up your spouse’s Medisave and Special Account (SA) to meet the Full Retirement Sum (FRS) and Retirement Account (RA) requirements after turning 55. Opting for the Enhanced Retirement Sum for a larger monthly payout. Considering delaying CPF payout from the RA to receive a bigger payout later. CPF Retirement Planner: CPF offers tools like the CPF Retirement Planner, which allows individuals to set retirement income goals based on their desired lifestyle and projects future CPF LIFE payouts. This tool helps provide suggestions to meet those goals. Investment Strategies: Some individuals use CPF as a stable and risk-free foundation for wealth compounding. It acts as a secure base that can offset risks taken in the stock market, allowing for more calculated investment decisions. Thomas reserved his Ordinary Account (OA) funds for aggressive drawdowns eg. during the 2020 COVID-19 market crash, he used funds to buy into opportunities. CPF Investment Scheme (CPFIS): CPFIS can be used when you’re out of cash and the market offers a good risk-reward ratio. Thomas used CPFIS to invest in various assets, such as local banks and indexed funds, offering flexibility in investment choices. Basics of Investment: The session also emphasized the importance of understanding the basics of investment for those who are new to it. Investing can be a powerful tool for growing wealth, but it’s essential to start with a good understanding of the fundamentals. Overall, Charmaine summarized the valuable insights into setting clear financial goals, making informed decisions and leveraging available resources to secure retirement and financial goals. For more information please check out: Building a Strong Foundation to Achieve Your Retirement Goals (youtube.com)

Emcee Singapore: Charmaine had an interesting conversation with Midi, the Shenzhen-born TikToker who transitioned from promoting her photography business to creating content about her life as a full-time mom in Singapore. Some interesting highlights of their discussion: Midi’s TikTok Journey: Midi began her TikTok journey about two years ago while working from home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Initially, she used the platform to promote her photography business, creating content related to LinkedIn photos, promotional videos and Chinese-related topics. Viral Success: Charmaine went on to ask Midi to recount how her journey started. Midi explained that one of her TikTok videos went viral, reaching 299k views in just two days. This helped her understand that there was an international audience interested in her content, particularly from South East Asia, due to her background as a Chinese resident in Singapore. Balancing Act: Midi discussed the challenges of balancing her time between editing videos and spending time with her husband. They had discussions about whether to create an Instagram account for their baby, Jojo. Authenticity: Charmaine then discussed the secret of Midi’s growth on TikTok. Midi emphasized the importance of being authentic in her content creation. She shares her real-life experiences and feelings as a mother, which has resonated with many viewers, including younger generations like Gen Z. TikTok Culture: In response to Charmaine’s question about how she handles unpleasant comments from “keyboard warriors” on TikTok, Midi shared her approach. She mentioned that while she does encounter negative comments from time to time, she prefers to focus on the positive interactions she has with her followers. She’s had positive interactions with followers who appreciate her content on topics, such as postpartum depression. Challenges of Content Creation: Being a full-time content creator is not easy. Midi explained that it involves a lot of planning, filming, lighting considerations, outfit choices, editing, and sound effects. She emphasized the importance of keeping it real and authentic. Growth and Recognition: Despite the challenges, Midi’s hard work paid off, as she grew her TikTok following from 50 viewers to over 558,600 followers. She now gets recognized in public, including at the supermarket. Keeping it Real: Midi’s content strategy is rooted in being genuine and sharing what she truly thinks and feels. She believes that authenticity is key to connecting with her audience. Overall, Charmaine highlighted Midi’s strategy of authenticity and realness in connecting with viewers, despite facing challenges and encountering online negativity. Midi’s approach of being herself and sharing her real-life experiences has helped her connect with her viewers. This authenticity allows her to make her content relatable and valuable to a wide range of people. It’s this sincerity that has enabled her to build a loyal and engaged following on platforms like TikTok, demonstrating the power of genuine storytelling in the world of online content creation.

Emcee Singapore Charmaine hosted the 38th Anniversary Gala Dinner at Sands Ballroom, joined by 2,200 industry professionals. The event celebrated Singapore’s 10 consecutive years as the BEST Maritime Centre, reaffirmed by Acting Minister for Transport, Mr. Chee Hong Tat. Singapore’s strategic location, international outlook, and professional maritime services ecosystem contribute to its status as a global maritime hub. The evening paid tribute to Mr. Lee Kuan Yew’s maritime legacy on his birth centenary, alongside celebrating Singapore’s achievement. Emcee Singapore Charmaine emphasized sustainability, reflecting the industry’s commitment to reducing environmental impact and promoting responsible maritime practices.

Emcee Singapore: Charmaine celebrated the countless milestones and significant achievements of an iconic household brand in a momentous 30th Anniversary Gala Dinner. Charmaine was thrilled to be a part of this special occasion, where the guests gathered to celebrate the brand’s incredible journey. It’s been truly remarkable to think about all the milestones achieved over 30 years. And to help appreciate and reflect on these iconic moments, guests were treated to a video that took them on a nostalgic journey through the brand’s history. But, of course, everyone was not just here to reminisce; they had fun as well! So, Charmaine checked out the true brand enthusiasts in the room and engaged them with an exciting Q&A quiz on the momentous developments of the huge icon, especially in the earlier years. As guests continued with the festivities, they sat back, relaxed and immersed themselves in a delightful jazz performance and the soothing harmonious tunes of a string quartet. It was a night filled with music, memories, and merriment!

Emcee Singapore: Charmaine interviewed Zak Brown (CEO), Randy Singh (Strategy Director) and Jose Manuel López (Race Engineer) to discuss their strategy to optimize the weekend race performance of Norris Lando and Oscar Piastri. This involves pre-race planning using data analysis, weather forecast, track characteristics; car setup considering adjustments in fine-tuning the car aerodynamics; tire strategy on pit stop timing and race day execution. Zac Brown expressed the team’s aspiration to break Red Bull winning streak in Singapore, and his wish was met with enthusiasm and support from McLaren’s dedicated fans meetup. Winning on the podium in Formula 1 is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the entire team, including drivers like Lando, engineers and strategists. Having a place at the podium in Singapore was a remarkable achievement for McLaren, and it’s clear that Zac Brown and the entire McLaren team worked hard to achieve this goal. It’s a great moment for McLaren, and their fans celebrated the team’s success in their 60th-anniversary year. Charmaine also spoke to Mika Häkkinen (two-time Formula One World Champion) on his insights into how changes has been influencing F1 and the relationship between teams, drivers, and fans e.g. social media has brought Formula 1 closer to its global audience and technology has enhanced the overall experience for everyone involved. And under the city’s bright lights, the night race delivered thrills and spills, and Lando finished second with Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz snagged his first Grand Prix win of the season as the Spaniard led from start to finish. For more information on F1 Singapore Grand Prix, please view: Charmaine Yee IG reel F1 Singapore Grand Prix welcomes more than 260,000 fans over race weekend | The Straits Times

Emcee Singapore: Charmaine hosted the seventh edition of the Asean Conference 2023 graced by Mr Gan Kim Yong, Minister for Trade & Industry. During the engaging in-conversation dialogue with Mr Gan Kim Yong, he shared valuable insights on the latest economic trends, supply chain and free trade agreements, sustainability and digitalisation topics, which are pertinent to Asean. Green energy is an area where the Asean nations are complementary, as some countries have excess green energy while others are short of green energy, creating trade and investment opportunities, said the minister. This year’s Asean Conference is special, as Singapore commemorates Mr Lee Kuan Yew’s birth centenary and we also pay tribute to Mr Lee Kuan Yew’s contribution to the formation of Asean in 1967. A special video was screened to share the formative years of Asean under the leadership of Mr Lee and the other pioneering Asean leaders, and how the region has grown into a cohesive bloc over the years. Singapore Business Federation (SBF) signed two strategic partnership MOUs with partners – UOB and Y3 Technologies, which is part of the YCH Group. These two MOUs aim to help Singapore companies in their internationalisation journey, particularly for the Asean region. For SBF and UOB, this is a refreshed MOU which is designed to elevate the strategic partnership to a more comprehensive level, covering collaboration in areas of latest information exchange on economic developments, provision of business advisory, support each other’s business events such as seminars, webinars and business networking sessions that will be held in Singapore or overseas. For the SBF and Y3 Technologies MOU, the main objective is to assist Singapore companies in offering solutions for their overseas expansion through ecommerce digital sales, including e-marketplace channel management, logistics and fulfilment in key Asean markets. In line with the theme of “Forging a Digital and Sustainable Asean – Towards Prosperity, Resilience and Sustainable Growth – In commemoration of LKY100”, the expert speakers offered invaluable insights into the opportunities and challenges for businesses in the region. The 3 plenary discussion topics included how to build human capital, how businesses can position themselves for the shift in Asean’s global supply chain, ways to achieve balanced economic growth through digitalisation, as well as how to devise actionable strategies to stay competitive. ​ The first plenary discussion covered “Driving Innovation and Sustainability through Human Capital” moderated by Mr. Tay Woon Teck, Partner, Head of Private Client Services at RSM Singapore, and distinguished panelists. The second plenary touched on “Positioning for the Shift in ASEAN’s Global Supply Chain” moderated by Ms. Kala ANANDARAJAH, Head of Competition & Antitrust and Trade at Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP. The final plenary discussion titled “Asean’s Road to Sustainable Digitalisation – Balancing the Odds” was moderated by Mr. Wong Wai Meng, Chief Executive Officer (Data Centres) Keppel Data Centres and Networks Division, Chairman of SGTech and Chair of SBF Digitalisation Committee. The conversation among the panelists revolved around how Asean can achieve sustainable growth while balancing the opportunities and challenges of digitalization. Charmaine rounded up this year’s enlightening and fruitful conference, summarizing key takeaways, highlighting successful strategies, and emphasizing the importance of the two interconnected themes of digitalization and sustainability in the Asean region. For more information, please check out: S’pore companies to get more help with breaking into Asean markets | The Straits Times Diversity among Asean members is a strength: Gan Kim Yong, ASEAN Business – THE BUSINESS TIMES

Emcee Singapore: Charmaine hosted an Ayden podcast titled “Making a Sustainable Impact”, together with experts from businesses in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region on integrating ESG, that is environment, social, and governance standards, into a merchant’s strategy to win and maintain the loyalty of customers and grow a business. In this episode, Charmaine explored why merchants need to take sustainability and ESG seriously, and how a greater focus on these issues is changing and enriching the way companies interact with their customers, as well as creating new opportunities to grow. As Claudia de Pieri Carrazza, Impact Manager at Adyen, explains, there is a greater understanding that if we’re going to successfully combat climate change, companies have an incredible capacity to make a difference, and also influence others to do the same. Claudia added, “And while traditional business was all about profit, the view of a successful business has changed and successful businesses these days don’t just care about profit, but also look at people, planet, and of course, purpose. That is the model of a new successful business.” For Scott Meneilly, former CEO of restaurant chain, Sushi Sushi, and food franchise experts, Retail Zoo, this is a trend that is here to stay. He said, “So consumers want to buy from places that are aligned with them, and their thoughts, and beliefs. And people in the corporate world understand that at one point, but we also understand our role in the world. So it’s not just about making money, it’s about doing the right thing. So your brands are conscious about: Are they using materials that are recycled?” Emcee Singapore Charmaine said. “Consumers in APAC are seeing the brands they shop at as an extension of themselves and an important reflection of their own beliefs. We know that the best brands put the customer experience at the heart of what they do.” And how do companies begin? Whether you are just starting on your sustainability journey, or your plans are more advanced, Shalini Samuel, Director of Certification and Standards Learning at B Lab, the non-profit network that provides the well known B Corp certification to companies that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, has some advice for brands wanting to develop a sustainable business strategy. One company that has embraced this philosophy is Australian furniture company, Koala. Here’s Belinda Judd, Koala’s Director of Group Financial Control, to explain the brand’s principles. As an illustration, Belinda said, “So we are working with organizations such as FSC to find sustainable timber for our products. We’ve just released a rug that’s made out of reclaimed plastic bottles. We are looking at alternative fabrics, we’ve released a cork sofa previously. We’re looking at different alternatives too, that are much more sustainable, not only from the point of where we are putting them into our products, but through that entire lifecycle.” To emcee Singapore Charmaine’s point that Adyen’s Impact product is also constantly evolving, to meet changing customer needs, and the desire to create more opportunities for people to support the causes that matter to them the most. Claudia chimed, “We decided to create Moments that Matter, and Moments that Matter was born due to the overwhelming demand that our merchants had when the Ukraine war broke out. Our merchants were coming to us and saying what we want, we want to do something and we want to do it quickly. And we were able to facilitate this global partnership on behalf of our merchants. We saw that there was an appetite from our customer base that they like to either respond quickly in moments of crisis.” Charmaine concluded the podcast stating, “Small steps can make a big change. And that’s true, whether you’re a customer adding a charity donation when you settle a bill or a brand taking its first steps to have a more positive impact on the planet.” Listen to the latest episode of our podcast, Behind the Figures : Behind the Figures Podcast S2 Episode 2 | Adyen – Adyen