SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 January 2025 – Crystal Learning Pte. Ltd. and Lingo School of Knowledge are pleased to announce the streamlining of their combined language offerings following their recent merger. This strategic decision will create a more focused and efficient portfolio, enabling regular class openings, greater operational synergy, and more opportunities for students to start their language learning journeys.
Under this new structure, each language will now be offered by a single school, allowing Crystal Learning and Lingo to achieve the critical mass necessary for frequent class start dates. This ensures greater flexibility and convenience for new students while maintaining small-group classes with a maximum of eight students—whether in-person at the Orchard centre, online, or in hybrid mode.
Key Changes to the Language Portfolio: 1. Languages offered exclusively by Lingo School of Knowledge:
Vietnamese (previously under Vietnoi)
Indonesian (previously under IndoSlang)
Thai (previously under Sawadee)
Japanese (previously under Taiyo)
Malay (previously offered by both schools)
2. Languages offered exclusively by Crystal Learning’s specialist schools:
Korean:Hana Korean
Mandarin:Yi Mandarin
English:English Express
Moving forward, students interested in Korean, Mandarin, or English will be referred to the respective specialist schools under the Crystal Learning umbrella.
Commitment to Quality and Continuity
The streamlining will not affect current teaching arrangements, and no changes will be made to the team of experienced teachers. Students will continue to enjoy personalized attention in small group settings, a hallmark of both Crystal Learning and Lingo.
Alex Lim, Centre Director at Crystal Learning, shared, “By combining our strengths and focusing on a unified portfolio, we can offer students more frequent opportunities to start classes while maintaining our commitment to high-quality, small group teaching. Whether you’re learning Vietnamese, Mandarin, Korean or any of the other languages we teach, our goal is to make language learning more accessible and impactful.”
With many aspiring learners making New Year’s resolutions to pick up a new language, this streamlined offering ensures a variety of languages are accessible, structured, and flexible to meet the needs of individuals and professionals alike.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 January 2025 – Kim Yew Integrated, a leader in the facilities management industry, proudly celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2025, marking four decades of innovation, resilience, and commitment to excellence. Founded in 1985, the company has evolved from a traditional term contractor to an Integrated Facilities Management firm, redefining industry standards with data-driven solutions, technology integration, and sustainable practices.
Patrick Tan, Managing Director of Kim Yew Integrated, who is part of the new management team that took over since 2021
ACHIEVEMENTS THAT DEFINE EXCELLENCE
Over the past 40 years, Kim Yew Integrated’s journey has been defined by groundbreaking achievements and a steadfast commitment to exceeding client expectations. Notable milestones include:
Certified Facilities Management Company (Gold Plus): Achieving this prestigious SIFMA certification highlights the company’s excellence in delivering high-quality facilities management services.
Sustainable Net Zero Organization (Gold Plus): Recognised for its leadership in sustainability, Kim Yew Integrated has set benchmarks in implementing environmentally friendly practices.
SIFMA Smart Technology Winner (2021, 2022, 2023): Acknowledged three years in a row for its innovative use of smart technologies in facilities management.
Sustainability (Small Enterprise) Merit (2023): Honoured for its outstanding contributions to sustainability within the small enterprise category.
Outstanding FM Service Provider (Open) Merit (2022, 2023): Recognised for its exceptional service delivery and client satisfaction.
World Workplace Asia-Pacific Sustainability Merit (2024): Celebrated for its dedication to advancing sustainability in the facilities management industry across the Asia-Pacific region.
FM01 – M1 Certification: Kim Yew Integrated is the highest-certified local firm to meet this stringent standard, solidifying its position as a trusted partner for large-scale facilities management projects.
Pioneering Transformation: Transitioning from traditional term contracting to a holistic IFM approach, the company now leverages cutting-edge technology, data analytics, and innovative solutions to deliver unparalleled service quality.
ADAPTING TO EMERGING EXPECTATIONS
Since 2021, under the new shareholders, directors, and management team, Kim Yew Integrated has more than doubled its business, demonstrating its strategic vision and commitment to excellence in the post-COVID market. This growth reflects the company’s ability to adapt to market demands while maintaining its core values of quality and reliability.
The facilities management landscape has undergone significant changes over the past decade, driven by digital transformation, sustainability goals, and rising client expectations. Kim Yew Integrated has embraced these challenges, emerging as a forward-thinking partner for businesses seeking efficient and sustainable facilities solutions. Through initiatives like green procurement, carbon tracking, and e-waste recycling, the company has embedded environmental stewardship at the core of its operations.
“Celebrating 40 years is not just about looking back at what we’ve accomplished but also about looking ahead to the future,” said Patrick Tan, Managing Director of Kim Yew Integrated. “Our journey reflects our ability to adapt, innovate, and lead in a dynamic industry. We remain committed to providing sustainable and efficient solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients.”
A LEGACY OF COLLABORATION AND INNOVATION
Kim Yew Integrated has built lasting partnerships with government bodies, educational institutions, and leading corporations, providing customised facilities solutions that address complex challenges. These relationships reflect the company’s unwavering commitment to delivering tailored solutions with a focus on excellence and reliability.
Looking to the future, Kim Yew Integrated plans to further its investments in innovation, particularly in areas such as robotics for cleaning and pest control, advanced data analytics, and expanded energy efficiency solutions. Collaborations with technology partners will continue to enhance its ability to deliver integrated, cutting-edge services.
COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE AND ACCOUNTABILITY
As a trusted leader in facilities management, Kim Yew Integrated upholds the highest standards of service quality, innovation, and ethical business practices. This commitment is the foundation of its long-standing relationships and reflects its dedication to meeting and exceeding stakeholder expectations. This milestone underscores the dedication of Kim Yew Integrated’s team and the trust placed in the company by its clients and partners. As it celebrates 40 years of success, the company reaffirms its mission to set new benchmarks in the facilities management industry, shaping a sustainable and innovative future.
Patrick Tan, Managing Director of Kim Yew Integrated commented:
“Since November 2021, Kim Yew Integrated has achieved remarkable growth and reached key milestones. This progress would not have been possible without the unwavering trust, support, and collaboration of our clients, people, and partners. As we celebrate our 40th Anniversary, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been part of our journey and success. Together, we aspire to continue growing and creating positive impact for many years to come.”
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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 January 2025 – Sirius Mathematics, the maths specialist tuition centre for primary and secondary students, is excited to announce its grand opening in the vibrant Tampines area.
Mdm Chang Chiou Yen teaching a math class at Sirius Mathematics.
Supporting Student Success with Innovative Teaching
Sirius Mathematics was founded out of a passion for teaching and a commitment to helping students develop their mathematical thinking and problem-solving skills. Led by the former Mathematics Head of Department at Raffles Institution, Ms. Chang Chiou Yen, the centre aims to support students through innovative teaching methods, tailored materials, and personalised support.
“We are thrilled to celebrate the grand opening of Sirius Mathematics in Tampines. This marks the beginning of a new chapter where we can make a significant impact on our students’ academic journeys,” said Ms. Chang, Head of Mathematics.
Expert-Led Education by Ms. Chang Chiou Yen
As the former Mathematics Head of Department at Raffles Institution, one of Singapore’s premier secondary schools, Ms. Chang brings over 20 years of teaching experience in MOE schools, including Raffles Institution and Raffles Girls’ School.
Ms. Chang holds a Bachelor of Science from NUS, a Master of Education from NTU, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) from NIE. Her credentials and hands-on experience have shaped her deep understanding of the MOE Mathematics syllabus. Known for her ability to demystify complex concepts, Ms. Chang makes Mathematics accessible and engaging for students of all levels.
“I’ve always been passionate about helping students truly understand mathematical concepts. I believe building a strong foundation can foster both academic excellence and confidence. My goal is to create a supportive and engaging learning environment where every student can thrive and succeed,” said Ms. Chang, Head of Mathematics at Sirius Mathematics.
In addition, the other teachers at Sirius Mathematics are all local graduates from NUS and NTU. They possess years of experience teaching Mathematics to both primary and secondary students.
Future Growth and Student Intake
As Sirius Mathematics looks to grow, the centre is specifically targeting an intake of Secondary 4 students this year. Besides, the tuition centre is expanding to include Primary 5 and Primary 6 students, preparing them for PSLE and further strengthening its commitment to academic excellence across all grade levels. With plans to expand its reach, the centre is positioning itself as a leader in math tuition for students of all levels.
Please attribute to Detective Inspector Andrew Saunders:
A man has been charged with murder and attempted murder in relation to the violent incident at a Fairfield address yesterday.
The 34-year-old man remains in hospital in a stable condition under Police guard, and will be remanded in custody to reappear before the High Court in Hamilton, Tuesday 4 February.
Police can confirm a baby died, and another child and a woman remain in hospital in a serious but stable condition.
We extend our sympathies to the whānau at this tragic time and will provide ongoing support.
A scene examination is ongoing at the Douglas Crescent property, and Police are speaking with a number of people as they work to build a full picture of what has occurred.
Police know this was a distressing incident and the community is understandably feeling concerned.
We would like to reiterate that this was an isolated event and there is no risk to the wider public.
Police thank the community for their patience and understanding as we continue to undertake our enquiries.
Please attribute to Police Commissioner Richard Chambers:
Police have been extremely heartened with the response from the local community and across New Zealand following the tragic death of Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming.
This morning, with a number of Police staff present, Iwi from across Te Tau Ihu blessed the scene of yesterday’s tragic events.
I would like to thank Iwi for their support, along with members of the community who have delivered flowers, cards, and the thousands of messages we have received. These have meant a lot to our staff in Nelson as well as to the wider Police family.
The coming days, weeks and months are going to be tough for the staff in Nelson as they come to terms with what has happened but it is an absolute priority for Police that we wrap support around the staff directly impacted as well as the wider station.
Additionally, a number of Police forces across Australia, the Pacific, and Canada have reached out to New Zealand Police to offer their condolences.
I am relieved to report that Senior Sergeant Adam Ramsay is now in a stable condition. He is beginning his recovery journey for which Police will be with him every step of the way.
The two members of the public who were injured are also continuing to recover and we are ensuring they are being supported.
We are doing everything we can for Lyn’s family but this is an incredibly difficult time for them as they come to terms with what has happened.
We expect to provide a further update to media later today as the investigation progresses.
Otago Lakes Area Police are urging parents to know where their teens are and take responsibility for their welfare, after emergency services responded to a large disorder in Wanaka last night.
Police were called to Dinosaur Park around midnight after a report of about 300 young people gathered there and multiple fights breaking out.
At least three serious assaults were reported, involving young people being knocked unconscious, along with numerous other more minor assaults.
Acting District Commander Inspector Matt Scoles says it was disappointing that many of those present appeared to have been supplied alcohol.
“We know it’s a time of year where lots of people are out celebrating and having a good time.
“But we need parents to make sure their young people are acting responsibly, knowing where they are and what they are doing.
“I’m sure many parents would have been horrified to learn their teens had been putting themselves in danger, consuming excessive amounts of alcohol and engaging in violent altercations.
“It’s extremely dangerous for all involved when we have young people drinking under the legal age and gathering en masse without any supervision.”
Inspector Scoles says many of those involved were from out of town, with families in Wanaka on holiday.
He urges families on holiday to stick together and enjoy time away from home responsibly.
“Please, keep track of your kids, and have a plan with them around how everyone is going to stay safe.
“We don’t want to be knocking on your door at 2am telling you something serious has happened involving your teenager.”
Attributable to Inspector Danny Kirk, Tairāwhiti Area Commander:
Tairāwhiti Police were overall pleased and impressed with the behaviour of the visitors to the region and our local residents.
Rhythm and Vines attendees were a neat bunch of Kiwis and our staff found them very polite and respectful. This view was echoed by our emergency service and healthcare partners.
While overall the behaviour was good, there were a few arrests at Rhythm and Vines for matters including an assault, possession of controlled drugs for supply and breaching bail conditions. There were no serious injuries reported from the assault.
On New Year’s Day, Police operated three road checkpoints in the environs of Rhythm and Vines and tested nearly 6000 drivers for alcohol. This resulted in 13 people being summoned to appear in court for driving with an excess breath or blood alcohol level. Fifteen infringement notices were issued for breath alcohol offences.
This year’s numbers are a significant reduction from the number of people prosecuted for driving while impaired at the same checkpoints last year. However, our aim remains for no one to ever get behind the wheel impaired by drugs or alcohol, and drivers need to take this responsibility seriously.
Police were also pleased with the behaviour of visitors and locals in the holiday hot spot of Mahia. This year we noted a much smaller presence of holiday goers for New Year’s Eve, and this is likely attributable to the poor weather conditions across the region.
Police will continue to have an increased presence across the Tairāwhiti region, especially holiday hotspots, monitoring and ready to respond to unlawful activity as it arises.
If you witness any suspicious or unlawful activity, please contact police on 111 if its happening now or 105 if it’s after the fact.
The provisional number of road deaths in 2024 stands at 289, down from 341 in 2023.
Police say while there has been a reduction in the number of families torn apart by road deaths this past year, any number is too high.
Superintendent Steve Greally, Director Road Policing, says Police are doing everything they can to help bring this number down.
“Our officers have done, and are doing, as much as humanly possible out on the roads working to reduce the number of death and serious-injury crashes,” he says.
Police have more than doubled the number of alcohol breath tests conducted over the last couple of years, and are on track to conduct more than 4 million by the end of the financial year in June 2025.
Police has also had the same focus on speed enforcement.
Since December 2022, when police launched Operation Open Roads, New Zealand has seen a significant reduction in death and serious injury.
“Our frontline is passionate about preventing serious crashes, so if you are one of those people who is determined to put people’s lives at risk and you are caught, you should not expect a warning,” Superintendent Greally says.
“Given the increased levels of Police enforcement, the chances of being caught are high.
“What we need is for drivers to do their bit – and that’s to consciously make sensible decisions before they get behind the wheel, and when they’re on the road.”
Superintendent Greally says the role of the motorist is very simple.
“Ensure everyone in your vehicle is safely buckled up, drive at a safe speed for the conditions under the speed limit, put your cellphone away, and ensure you’re driving free of fatigue, alcohol, and drugs.”
Police are urging those travelling over the summer period to take heed of this advice, have patience, and get to where they’re going safely.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 January 2025 – The inaugural Yuewen Music Festival illuminated the sky over Singapore with a magnificent display of over a thousand drones and dazzling fireworks, both inspired by popular Yuewen Intellectual Properties (IPs). This innovative fusion of music and IP has captivated audiences from around the world.
The festival’s grand finale on December 31st
As the clock’s hands steadily approached the midnight hour, a remarkable spectacle unfolded. More than a thousand drones soared into the air, choreographing a symphony of lights and patterns across Singapore’s night sky.
Simultaneously, the renowned DJ WUKONG, celebrated for his unique blend of eastern and electronic music, took center stage to debut a meticulously crafted remix of the iconic The King’s Avatar theme song. This electrifying performance served as the crowning jewel of the evening, setting the tone for the highly anticipated countdown to 2025.
The three-day event has proven to be a vibrant melting pot of extraordinary talent, spotlighting renowned artists from all corners of Asia and beyond. On its inaugural day, PP Krit spellbound his vast legion of fans through a succession of highly engaging performances. He was then followed by Billkin, who, with his ability to connect with the audience, closed the evening with a performance that was nothing short of captivating. As the event progressed, on December 29, the second day of this remarkable affair, TAEYANG & DAESUNG, the former luminaries of the iconic K-pop group BIGBANG, swept the audience off their feet with their chart-toppers and an electrically charged stage presence that etched an indelible impression.
In addition to the music festival, Yuewen has been actively engaged in various initiatives to promote its IPs in Singapore. Earlier in 2024, the “Yuewen Global IP Awards” was held in Singapore, hosting over 600 celebrities, writers, and global entertainment executives.
Hashtag: #Yuewen
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