Collaboration to Boost Indonesian SMEs and Singaporean Businesses at TEI 2024

  

At the 2024 Trade Expo Indonesia (TEI), Kimming Yap, Managing Director of Creativeans, was one of the keynote speakers at the Indonesia-Singapore Business Forum. The forum aimed to bridge trade relations between the two countries through branding innovation and market expansion strategies.

The Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Singapore, H.E Suryo Pratomo; Vice Minister of Trade of the Republic of Indonesia, Dr Jerry Sambuaga; and CEO of Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF), Mr. Dennis Mark, officially opened the forum, expressed support for strengthening trade relations between the two nations. In addition to presenting Indonesia’s economic outlook for the past five years and future projections, they emphasised the importance of cross-border collaboration in expanding Indonesian SME markets and supporting the entry of Singaporean businesses into Indonesia. The event was hosted by Yulia Saksen, while Edmund Ong, CEO of BridgifyAsia, moderated the panel discussion.

In addition to Kimming Yap, other key figures participated in the panel, including Jarius Draslaric, Chairman of the Lifestyle Industry Group (SMF), who discussed the importance of innovation and adaptation in the lifestyle industry for local products to compete internationally. Shoeb Kagda, Chairman of SingCham Indonesia, highlighted the bilateral trade opportunities and synergies between businesses from both countries. Christie Lumban Gaol, Vice President of Corporate Banking at Bank Mandiri, also participated, discussing the role of banking in supporting SME growth through financing and financial infrastructure.

During the discussion, Kimming Yap highlighted the enormous potential of Indonesian SMEs to thrive in the Singaporean market but stressed that the biggest challenge they face lies in branding and packaging. "While many Indonesian products are of high quality and ready to compete, they still need improvements in packaging and branding to be accepted in international markets," said Kimming Yap. Therefore, implementing the right branding strategies is crucial for Indonesian SMEs to compete on the global stage.

Furthermore, Kimming also discussed the vast opportunities for Singaporean companies in Indonesia’s rapidly growing market. "With strategic cooperation and understanding of local consumer behaviour, Singaporean businesses can take advantage of the opportunities to expand their markets in Indonesia," he explained. He also emphasised the importance of partnerships to address logistical and supply chain challenges often faced by local companies in both countries.

The forum was attended by stakeholders and business leaders from Indonesia and Singapore, who together explored opportunities to strengthen trade, build dynamic collaboration platforms, and facilitate dialogue between the two nations, which have shared diplomatic relations for 57 years. According to the latest data, bilateral trade has reached USD 31 billion, with USD 15.4 billion in direct investment from Singapore to Indonesia.

This strategic collaboration is expected to not only open up new market access but also increase the exposure of local products, making them more recognised on the international stage. The innovation mirrors the collaboration between Creativeans and BridgifyAsia, where the two work together to help Singaporean companies access the Indonesian market and vice versa. This partnership provides logistical ease, increased product exposure, and effective branding strategy planning for both parties.

Creativeans is an award-winning brand consultancy and venture studio that has collaborated with global companies based in Singapore, Jakarta, and Milan. With years of experience in international marketing, Creativeans remains committed to adding value to companies in Indonesia and Singapore, supporting their business growth to go international.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

Is BINI Still Relevant? Examining the P-Pop Sensation After the ‘Grand Biniverse’ Controversy

Wazzup Pilipinas!?



Seven months after their peak and the controversy surrounding their alleged “overpriced” ticket for their ‘Grand Biniverse’ concert, some have begun to wonder if BINI is still relevant, especially to casual listeners.




Seven months have passed since the meteoric rise of BINI hit a bump with the controversy surrounding their ‘Grand Biniverse’ concert. Despite reaching new heights as one of the most promising P-Pop acts, the group faced a backlash over allegations of overpriced tickets, causing waves across fan communities and beyond. The question many are asking now is: Is BINI still relevant, particularly among casual listeners?

BINI’s Rise to Fame

BINI, formed under ABS-CBN’s Star Hunt Academy, quickly made a name for themselves in the P-Pop scene. Their debut single “Born to Win” set the tone for their empowering and dynamic image, attracting a dedicated fanbase known as BLOOMs. With their synchronized choreography, unique sound, and modern twist on Filipino pop, the group became a force to be reckoned with, heralded as one of the frontrunners of the P-Pop movement.

The announcement of their ‘Grand Biniverse’ concert in early 2023 seemed like the next logical step for a group riding a wave of success. However, what was expected to be a triumphant celebration soon turned controversial.

The Ticket Controversy

As tickets went on sale for the ‘Grand Biniverse’ concert, fans and the general public were quick to point out the seemingly exorbitant prices, especially given the group’s relatively young status in the industry. The steep pricing sparked discussions on social media, with some fans feeling alienated while others defended the costs as reflective of the production quality and scale of the event.

The controversy reached a peak when the term "overpriced" began trending alongside BINI's name, casting a shadow over their preparations for what should have been their crowning moment. Critics and casual listeners alike began to question whether the group had outgrown its fanbase or if it was prematurely elevating its status to that of more established international acts. The debate about value versus artistry hit home, and in the aftermath, BINI had to navigate not only the expectations of their devoted BLOOMs but also the wary gaze of the casual market.

The Concert: A Double-Edged Sword

When the day of the ‘Grand Biniverse’ finally arrived, BINI delivered a spectacular performance, leaving no doubt about their talent and showmanship. The concert featured impressive choreography, high-production values, and a setlist that showcased their growth as artists. For their loyal fans, it was a dream come true.

However, the damage had been done. While the concert was a success in the eyes of BLOOMs, the ticket pricing controversy lingered in the minds of casual listeners, many of whom opted to stay away or watch from the sidelines. This begs the question: Has BINI managed to retain its broader appeal, or has it become a more niche act since the controversy?

The Impact on Casual Listeners

For a group like BINI, casual listeners are just as important as hardcore fans. While BLOOMs will continue to support the group through thick and thin, it is the casual listener who determines if a group breaks into the mainstream or remains a fandom-driven phenomenon.

Unfortunately, the ticket controversy may have created a barrier for these listeners. To some, the perception of BINI has shifted—from a fresh, accessible P-Pop group to one that is out of reach, not only in terms of ticket prices but also in image. The price controversy, whether justified or not, highlighted an issue many P-Pop acts face: balancing the need for growth and revenue with the affordability and accessibility that attract a broader audience.

BINI’s Current Standing

Since the ‘Grand Biniverse’ concert, BINI has maintained a consistent presence in the P-Pop scene, releasing new music and engaging with fans through social media, online content, and local performances. Their songs continue to chart well, and their social media following remains strong.

However, the real test of their relevance lies beyond their core fanbase. BINI’s ability to reach new audiences and convert casual listeners into fans will determine their long-term success. The P-Pop scene itself has become increasingly competitive, with new acts debuting and the resurgence of more seasoned groups. BINI will need to find ways to stand out once again, whether through groundbreaking music, accessible performances, or collaborative efforts with other artists.

What’s Next for BINI?

Moving forward, BINI has the opportunity to regain the trust of casual listeners by making their future events more accessible and addressing any lingering concerns head-on. Transparency about pricing and ensuring that their performances offer value for every peso spent will go a long way in rebuilding their image.

Collaborations with other P-Pop groups, Filipino musicians, or even international artists could also help the group reconnect with a wider audience. Furthermore, by creating content that appeals to both hardcore and casual fans, such as more vlogs, fan interactions, and community-driven projects, BINI can continue to bridge the gap between their devoted BLOOMs and the casual listeners who enjoy their music from afar.

Conclusion

BINI’s rise to fame was meteoric, and their ‘Grand Biniverse’ concert controversy served as a reminder of the delicate balance between ambition and accessibility. While the group remains relevant to their loyal fanbase, there is no denying that the ticket pricing incident impacted their appeal among casual listeners. However, with their undeniable talent, charisma, and potential for growth

BIR enters into MOA with the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor to help implement programs for the Urban Poor

Wazzup Pilipinas!?

Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr. has entered into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor (PCUP), last September 10, 2024, for the purpose of assisting the latter by exempting from taxes the donations made by private companies to PCUP.

"The BIR will exert all efforts in assisting the noble mission of the PCUP to implement programs for the urban poor. The BIR is your partner in helping the urban poor. Excellent taxpayer service means the granting of tax exemptions, as long as there is legal and factual basis for the exemption. We are at your service" Commissioner Lumagui stated.

The MOA entered into by the BIR provided for several provisions that redounds to the benefit of PCUP. This includes assisting the PCUP by exempting from taxes the donations made by private companies to PCUP, providing and orienting PCUP focal persons of the policies and guidelines for the exemption granted to donors, and the designation of a focal person that will coordinate with the PCUP for the implementation and monitoring of the MOA.