Organized by TalentCorp Malaysia and LeadWomen Malaysia Sdn Bhd in partnership with Gender Action Lab, Australian Aid and UN Women, the UN Women 2022 Asia-Pacific WEPs Awards commemorates those who have committed themselves to advancing gender equality and women’s economic empowerment. These gender champions from different countries, sectors, and fields are acknowledged respectively for their outstanding Leadership Commitment, Youth Leadership, Gender-inclusive Workplace, Gender-responsive Marketplace, Community Engagement & Partnerships, and Transparency & Reporting.
*The UN Women Asia-Pacific WEPs Awards represents recognition of exemplary company efforts for gender equality and is limited to a designated category and a specific location and time period. Awarded organizations, alongside their products and services, receiving awards are not endorsed or affiliated with UN Women or WeEmpowerAsia and being recognized as an Awardee does not constitute a partnership. Claims, statements, or endorsements made by awardees are solely those of the individual or organization and do not represent official policies or positions of UN Women. – Source: Asia Pacific WEPs Awards
The Women’s Empowerment Principles are a set of 7 Principles, for business offering guidance on how to empower women in the workplace, marketplace and community.
Source: https://www.asiapacificwepsawards.org/.
They are grounded in the recognition that businesses have a stake in, and a responsibility for, gender equality and women’s empowerment. Gender equality is more than just a moral responsibility. It is also great for business.
Jointly promulgated by UN Women and the UN Global Compact, there are now nearly 9,500 CEO-level signatories from across the globe.
The Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs) are a primary vehicle for corporate delivery on gender equality dimensions of the 2030 agenda and the United Nations Sustainable
Development Goals. WEPs signatories therefore stand in solidarity with the United Nations to end gender inequality in the workplace, marketplace and community.
The UNWEPs Awards – Malaysia 2024 presentation ceremony is a Special Event that takes place right after the Gender Action Lab (GAL) Summit held in the Asia School of Business in Kuala Lumpur, 15 October 2024, supported by Australian Aid and UN Women. The GAL Summit and UNWEPs Awards form the presummit to the two-day LeadWomen Asia Pacific Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Summit: Rebalancing Humanity on 16 & 17 October 2024.
LeadWomen, a leading organisation championing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace, is proud to announce its inaugural Asia Pacific DEI Summit: “Humanity Rebalanced”, taking place on 16 and 17 October 2024 at the Asia School of Business in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Building a More Equitable Future
Fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace is a necessity for business success and LeadWomen’s APAC DEI Summit aims to bring together 300 key thought leaders from governments, businesses, and civil society to address DEI challenges and develop practical solutions.
Focus on People-Centric Strategies
Over two days, the summit will feature insightful keynote addresses, interactive panel discussions, and workshops centred around the theme of “Humanity Rebalanced.” Key areas of focus will include:
Building inclusive workplaces that empower all employees.
Identifying and addressing unconscious bias in hiring and promotion practices.
Fostering people-focused leadership that prioritises diversity and equity.
Addressing Regional Challenges
The summit will feature the unique challenges and opportunities presented by a multicultural landscape in the Asia Pacific region. Discussions will explore how to address economic inequality, bridge wage gaps, and ensure equal access to education and advancement opportunities for all.
“While much of the good corporate practices have been shaped by DEI initiatives in North America and Europe, there is significant growing interest in what DEI means in Asia Pacific. Asia is highly populous and made up of diverse cultures, languages, and histories, which surfaces a unique set of DEI challenges for this region.
“Global diversity efforts over the last three to four years have been largely cosmetic, performative, and perfunctory. We are at a point in time where we need to stop and think about rebalancing humanity – bringing back the emphasis of being human, in the way we manage and lead organisations.
Robust DEI policies are critical to driving truly inclusive human and social capital development for businesses and in the context of nation building. We want to push organisations and leaders to go beyond superficial diversity metrics or token measures of inclusion.”
The summit’s line up of distinguished speakers will include:
Varshaa Kutik, Advisor for Diversity and Inclusion, Bank For International Settlements (Switzerland)
Sri Nair, Asia Pacific Vice Chairman of Markets, PwC (Malaysia)
Siti Hurrairah, Country Chair, Shell (Malaysia)
Kathy Matsui, Womenomics advocate and Co-Founder and General Partner of MPower Partners (Japan)
Michael Walmsley, Chief Experience Officer, Diversity Atlas (Australia)
Tracy Ann Curtis, Founder, TAC Global LLC (USA)
Tanya Sinha, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Leader, Amazon Web Services (Singapore)
Kamales Lardi, Author of the best-selling book ‘The Human Side Of Digital Business Transformation (Switzerland)
Michele Sagan; Director of Workforce Transformation, PwC (Malaysia)
Nen Lin Soo, Head of Strategic Communications and Sustainability, Forest Interactive (Malaysia)
Sarah Guerra, Head of Culture, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Bank of England (United Kingdom)
Shishir Kumar, Manager of Training and Development Division, Reserve Bank of India (India)
Nurul Diana Intan Zafirah, Head, Risk and Sustainability, Cyberview (Malaysia)
Delegates travelling to Kuala Lumpur for the LeadWomen APAC Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Summit 2024 will receive a 15% discount on Malaysia Airlines flights booked with the promo code MHDEI24 (valid until 16 October 2024, terms and conditions apply).
LeadWomen: Promoting Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) for Sustainable Development.
LeadWomen is a thought leader in the gender and diversity space and has been instrumental in stimulating interest and commitment towards Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) through courageous conversation, immersive experiences and high impact content/delivery.
To achieve social impact goals under the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – specifically Goals 5, 8, 10, 16 and 17 – LeadWomen aims to break down DEI concepts and establish sustainable action plans for teams, organisations, and nation-building. We strive to embed DEI into the organisation’s DNA and culture, where all live by the values and demonstrate the attributes in their work and life.
At LeadWomen, we believe that creating diverse, equitable and inclusive spaces is crucial to achieving equality for all. We understand that DEI is more than just a “nice-to-have” and is a key element in human and social capital development.
European Wellness, a global leader in regenerative medicine and integrated healthcare, has inaugurated its latest and most advanced facility, the European Wellness New Premier Center, in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. This landmark 60,000 square-foot center represents a significant leap forward for healthcare in Sabah and is set to play a crucial role in the global medical wellness tourism sector.
Prof. Dato’ Sri Dr. Mike Chan (second from right) at the ribbon cutting ceremony of the new European Wellness Premier Center along with YAB Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Bin Haji Noor (Middle), YB Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Masidi Manjun (third from left), H.E. Dr. Major General Khalid Abdulla Mubarak Albuainain AlMazrouie (second from left), and Prof. Dato’ Sri Dr. Michelle Wong (far right).
The grand opening ceremony was a notable event, attracting international attention and high-profile attendees. Sabah’s Chief Minister YAB Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Hajiji Bin Haji Noor, Sabah State Minister of Finance, YB Datuk Seri Panglima Haji Masidi Manjun, Advisor to the President of the UAE, H.E. Dr. Khalid Abdulla Mubarak Albuainain Almazrouie, and other dignitaries were present to witness the unveiling of this cutting-edge facility. The center, a major investment by EW’s founders, Prof. Dato’ Sri Dr. Mike Chan and Prof. Dato’ Sri Dr. Michelle Wong, is designed to integrate advanced medical science with the healing power of Sabah’s natural environment, setting a new benchmark in global healthcare.
Chief Minister Hajiji praised the vision and commitment of the founders, emphasizing how the center will enhance Sabah’s healthcare capabilities and position the region as a prominent destination for medical wellness tourism. “This facility is a game-changer for Sabah, combining state-of-the-art medical science with our unique natural environment,” said Hajiji. “It not only strengthens our local healthcare sector but also boosts Sabah’s standing on the global medical tourism map.”
The center’s opening is a strategic move that aligns with Sabah’s broader goals of becoming a leading hub for advanced healthcare and medical wellness tourism. Sabah’s strategic location in Southeast Asia, as part of the BIMP-EAGA and ASEAN regions, provides a significant advantage in attracting international investment and talent. “We are positioning Sabah at the forefront of the global health and wellness revolution,” Hajiji added. “This investment reflects our commitment to enhancing life quality and fostering international collaboration in medical innovation.”
Dr. Khalid Abdulla Mubarak highlighted the international significance of the European Wellness New Premier Center. “The advancements showcased here are truly groundbreaking,” Dr. Khalid remarked. “Prof. Chan’s work in targeted organ-specific stem cell therapy represents the future of healthcare set to revolutionize regenerative medicine and significantly improve healthcare outcomes globally.”
Dr. Khalid emphasized the importance of making such advanced treatments more accessible. “Currently, stem cell therapy is costly and limited in availability. Expanding access and reducing costs are crucial steps in making these life-changing treatments available to a broader population,” he noted. He also recognized Sabah’s potential as a global medical wellness tourism destination, praising the combination of high-quality medical facilities and the region’s natural beauty.
The center will offer an extensive range of services, including over 60 advanced regenerative medicine and holistic wellness therapies. It features cutting-edge technology and a team of over 300 professionals dedicated to delivering personalized healthcare solutions. This new facility is part of a larger expansion plan that includes the establishment of a biopharmaceutical manufacturing facility in Kota Kinabalu Industrial Park, with an investment of USD 80 million, doubling the workforce and further enhancing Sabah’s status in the global healthcare landscape.
The European Wellness New Premier Center stands as a testament to international collaboration and innovation in healthcare. It not only aims to transform healthcare in Sabah but also to set new standards for medical wellness worldwide. EW’s dedication to healthcare advancements positions it to transform global medical wellness tourism, ushering in a new health era for Sabah and beyond.
A large study of older Australians has found more would exercise – and exercise better – if classes were subsidised.
The Monash University research studied exercise classes all over the country, which had been commissioned and run by national exercise industry group, Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA). The classes involved 7,000 people over the age of 65 living in the community.
The research found subsidised 12-week exercise classes of low-to-moderate intensity, and run by accredited exercise professionals, led to “significant improvements in physical function” and less time sitting. The findings are outlined in three new studies published in the Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, BMC Geriatrics and Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport.
The primary aim was to determine factors associated with participation in community-based exercise classes of older Australians. A secondary aim was to investigate the association between participation and changes in physical activity levels. The study also measured the cost utility of the program.
Dr Ekegren said the research project was important for understanding the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of subsidised classes for older adults, and which types of exercise older adults are most likely to enjoy.
“Despite some of the barriers that older adults face in engaging with exercise programs, there is still significant potential for improvements in strength, mobility and physical activity participation,” Dr Ekegren said. “So far, few studies of this scale have been completed in Australia so this research will help cement what we know about the effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of exercise for older adults.”
The ‘Exercise Right for Active Ageing’ program reached older Australians from every state and territory, including those from regional and remote parts of Australia, and including some aged over 85 years. Many had high levels of comorbidity.
ESSA received Australian Government funding via the Australian Sports Commission to initiate and run the classes, which were taught by accredited exercise scientists (AESs) and physiologists (AEPs) within community-based facilities such as fitness centres and community health centres, in metropolitan, regional, and remote areas.
The classes studied included aerobics, aqua aerobics, pilates, balance, yoga, circuits and gym. Each participant paid an average $8 per class.
According to the WHO Global Action Plan, older adults worldwide are not physically active enough, with up to 60 per cent failing to meet current global physical activity guidelines. WHO’s key recommendation is better access to exercise programmes.
Cost has also been reported as a major barrier to participating in exercise programs for older adults. Research has also suggested that older adults would benefit from receiving financial subsidies, from governments for example, for group exercise classes.
ESSA president Dr Brendan Joss said staying physically active was incredibly important for good physical and mental health and to reduce the risk of multiple health conditions.
“We need to strengthen physical activity programs for older adults with scalable, affordable and effective programs that address the health concerns of our ageing population,” Dr Joss said. “Subsidised exercise classes delivered by an accredited professional that accommodate for physical limitations and reduce stigma is essential to get more older Australians moving.”
Funding subsidies, Dr Joss said, would be an “effective low-cost strategy for improving the health outcomes and quality of life for older Australians that governments can introduce now.”
Physical improvements were measured by the accredited exercise physiologists running the classes. Improvements were shown in sit-to-stand exercises, timed up-and-go tests, right and left reach and waist measurement.
“The sheer numbers of older people who signed up for this program show the need for subsidised classes,” Dr Ekegren said. “The classes ESSA provided were popular and valued and had a real impact on quality of life, especially in rural and regional areas.”
Natalie Dau is a Singapore-based 10-time ultramarathon winner, crossed the finish line at The Westin Singapore on 5 June, marking the completion of her incredible Project 1000. Over the course of 12 days, Natalie ran an astonishing 1000 km, beginning the journey in Hat Yai, Thailand, on 25 May, traversing the entire length of Malaysia, and concluding the journey in Singapore. Covering a distance equivalent to approximately 2 marathons (42.2 km x 2) per day, the run concluded on Global Running Day, 5 June. Starting at 4 am on the final day, local runners in Singapore were invited to join in at various join points, seeing hundreds of individuals participate in running with Natalie and supporting her through to the finish line. Hundreds were gathered at The Westin Singapore to celebrate her historic achievement, with distinguished guests including MP Poh Li San and Mr. Ong Eng Huat of the Singapore Book of Records.
Finishline – Natalie
Natalie was recognized at the finish line by the Singapore Book of Records for the “Fastest 1000 km Thailand-Singapore Ultramarathon,” and her Guinness World Record title for the “Fastest Crossing of Peninsular Malaysia on Foot” is now verified.
Throughout the 12-day run, Natalie battled extreme heat, lack of sleep, dangerous road conditions, and a variety of other factors including wild dog chases. She was operating on just a few hours of sleep each night, starting the mornings shortly after midnight to maximize running during the cooler hours of the day. The temperatures were so high that her shoes melted on the pavement, and she went through 4 pairs of shoes on the trip.
Natalie Running.
Despite the extreme conditions and struggles with a hip injury and a urinary tract infection, she was determined to continue the journey and insists that giving up was never an option. “This project was about community, teamwork, and perseverance, and so many people were counting on me. I couldn’t let them down. I never considered stopping, and am so grateful to everyone who supported me and believed in me.” shared Natalie.
Natalie and Team.
Alongside the challenging factors, Natalie and her team were touched by numerous beautiful moments as they passed through local communities in Thailand and Malaysia, encountering warmth and kindness with people rushing to bring her water on the roadside, or giving a friendly wave of support. She also visited Hat Yai University and several local schools along the way, speaking with children about her experience and encouraging them to believe in themselves and pursue their dreams.
Finishline – Team.
A cause closest to her heart, with Project 1000, Natalie is raising funds to support underprivileged women and girls, and bringing awareness to the gender gap in exercise and the importance of physical movement for mental health and overall wellbeing. Funds raised through Project 1000 are contributed to GRLS, a global charity and part of Women Win, which works to elevate women and girls around the world through sport and exercise. To make a donation in support of GRLS: https://www.gofundme.com/f/PROJECT1000RUN.
Natalie and MP Poh Li San
While challenging herself to push to new limits, at 52 years, Natalie hopes that her example may help others to feel confident, dream bigger, and resist self-limiting beliefs and societal expectations. “No matter what your goal is, it doesn’t have to be running or sport, everyone should feel that they can do something and believe in themselves,” shared Natalie.
While Blue Monday traditionally signifies a peak in winter blues and shines a light on Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), the current global landscape is far more complex. The prolonged exposure to crises, economic uncertainties and climate anxieties are creating a sustained strain on individuals. Concerns regarding crisis fatigue and burnout among the global workforce are also prompting organisations to re-evaluate their mental health support strategies and to prioritise proactive mental health support for employees.
The International SOS Risk Outlook 2024 data identifies burnout, the cost-of-living crisis and mental health concerns as the top risks to organisational wellbeing this year. Mental health emerges as a critical concern, as the pressures of burnout and financial difficulty can manifest in emotional and psychological distress. The survey data also underlines a growing understanding of the direct link between employee wellbeing and organisational success.
With 82% acknowledging the vital role of health and wellness policies in recruitment and retention and 77% see safeguarding employee wellbeing as a board-level priority
The World Health Organization also highlights that globally, an estimated 12 billion working days are lost every year to depression and anxiety at a cost of US$ 1 trillion per year in lost productivity.
Burnout rates among the global workforce have nearly doubled in just two years, soaring from 11-18% to 20-40%, with many reporting burnout levels as high as 50%.
This staggering data aligns with a recent McKinsey Health Institute study, revealing that 22% of employees across 30 countries are experiencing burnout symptoms at work.
Despite a significant rise in global burnout rates, the perceived risk its impact will have in 2024 varies across regions.
Globally, 80% of surveyed global senior risk professionals identifies employee burnout as the top threat to their organisation and workforce. Notably, this concern is most pronounced across the Middle East (93%), Oceania (88%), Africa (84%) and Americas (84%), which are exceeding the global average.
Dr Rodrigo Rodriguez-Fernandez, Global Health Advisor at International SOS said “The post-holiday return to work is known for its challenges and for many employees, this period can be a tipping point for exhaustion, chronic stress and burnout. Some may still be facing the lingering effects of the festive season, navigating financial pressures from rising bills after the holiday celebration. Heightened geopolitical uncertainties and ongoing global crises are also amplifying employee anxieties and creating a complex landscape for businesses navigating workforce wellbeing and productivity.
“Employee demands for strengthened mental health and wellbeing support within the workplace had been steadily increasing even before the recent succession of crises. This pre-existing trend has now acquired greater urgency amidst employee experiences of burnout and crisis fatigue. Blue Monday offers a timely opportunity for organisations to assess and strengthen workplace mental health initiatives. When employees feel supported and empowered to take care of their mental health, they are likely to be more engaged, focused and able to excel in their roles. Organisations that recognise this and prioritise on cultivating psychosocially safe work environments – from providing stress management workshops to flexible work arrangements, are not just doing the right thing, they are also making a strategic investment in their workforce & potential.”
International SOS urges organisations to take action and implement proactive strategies to prevent burnout and combat crisis fatigue in the workplace:
1. Create an emotionally open culture and encourage open communication: provide a safe space for employees to talk about their mental health and wellbeing. Encourage them to speak up if they are feeling overwhelmed or struggling.
2. Provide flexibility and promote work-life balance: support flexible working arrangements that help employees to balance their work and personal lives. Promote regular breaks and empower employees to prioritise their wellbeing.
3. Invest in emotional wellbeing: provide access to mindfulness sessions, and stress management training. Partner with certified mental health professionals to offer confidential counselling and support services.
4. Offer employee assistance programmes (EAPs): consider providing support such as financial counselling services or benefits consultations to address anxieties surrounding economic uncertainties.
5. Equip managers with mental health first-aid training: upskill managers to identify signs of distress and offer initial support to employees who may be struggling.
Congratulations to Bolivia’s Conrrado Moscoso for securing the title of The World Games Athlete of the Year 2023!
Bolivia’s Racquetball star wins the coveted title with an amazing total of 75,389 votes, defeating Luisa Rizzo (ITA) from Air Sports who came second with a total number of votes of 55,834. Moscoso (28), and Rizzo (21), led the race from the start of the final round, and were very close going into the final 24 hours. They have left third and fourth places to Germany’s Marius-Andrei Balan (33) and Khrystyna Moshenska (34), nominated in the Latin dance discipline, from the DanceSport category and Ju-Jitsu ace Faisal Al Ketbi (36), from UAE. The German dancers, performing together since 2015, collected 43,560 votes, while Faisal Al Ketbi, The World Games 2017 gold medallist, recorded 36,824 votes.
IWGA President José Perurena congratulated all the finalists on their success: “On behalf of the International World Games Association, and personally, I would like to congratulate our winner and all the athletes in the Top 10 for their outstanding performances. Congratulations for their performances in this race; but they also need to be recognised and saluted for the constant, tireless hard work and sacrifices that they make to reach the highest possible level in their sport. This Award is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the incredible records and achievements of The World Games’ male and female athletes from all over the world. Athletes are the beating heart of our community, and this trophy symbolises our gratitude.”
Inspire the younger generation to get moving
Conrrado Moscoso has had a highly successful and glittering career in Racquetball. He is the current International Racquetball Federation (IRF) men’s singles World champion, and currently leads the Racquetball World Rankings. He won two gold medals and one bronze at the latest edition of the Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile.
Immediately after the announcement, winner Moscoso said: “I am incredibly grateful and honoured to win this Award. For myself of course, but also for the international Racquetball community that I wish to represent with this title. I want to advocate for my sport in my country, my continent and throughout the world because the sport deserves worldwide publicity. My goal is to inspire the younger generation to get moving and find a passion for sport, possibly Racquetball!”
IRF President Osvaldo Maggi spoke with great enthusiasm: “On behalf of the global Racquetball community, I would like to wholeheartedly congratulate our champion Conrrado Moscoso of Bolivia on this tremendous achievement. We are so proud of him for winning and we would like to thank our supportive fans that made it possible. We look forward to seeing what the next edition of The World Games in Chengdu brings!”
A great honour
For 21-year-old Luisa Rizzo, flying her FPV drone at speeds of over 160km/h around an intricate obstacle course is much more than a simple hobby. The remarkable Italian pilot came third in the FAI World Drone Racing Championships in Namwon, Korea in 2023. She also entered the Guinness World Record Book for clearing 56 gates in 60 seconds on live TV when aged just 16.
Happy about her second place, Rizzo said: “I am delighted with this final result. It is a great honour, not only for me but for the entire air sports community, to receive this distinction. It was thrilling to follow the voting evolution since the start of the year, and I had no idea that I was going to get so much support from The World Games community. I am endlessly grateful for the mobilisation and encouragement, and I wish I knew who voted for me, in order to thank them one by one. I would also like to thank IWGA for their promotion of non-Olympic Games Sports.”
World Air Sports Federation President David Monks echoed the young athlete’s excitement: “We would like to extend our sincere congratulations to Luisa Rizzo for her second place. The depth of her talent and outstanding performances in one of our disciplines is undeniable and brings us all together. We are honoured that she gets to be recognised in her specific field.”
Growing popularity of DanceSport
Right from the beginning of their union, Balan and Moshenska became one of the most successful and mesmerizing couples in the world. They are German Champions and have been finalists in every major competition in the world. Since 2020 they are #1 on the World Dance Sport Federation World Ranking List and continue to dominate the international Latin Dance scene.
Thrilled about their third place, the pair commented: “We are incredibly grateful to be second runners-up in The World Games Athlete of the Year Award. We hope DanceSport will get more recognition all over the world, because it is an artistic sport which makes you feel and look good.”
World DanceSport Federation President Shawn Tay commented: “I’m delighted to witness Marius-Andrei Balan and Khrystyna Moshenska’s remarkable journey towards the third place in the IWGA Athlete of the Year Award. I’ve known Marius and Khrystyna for over a decade and have seen them persist through all the triumphs and hardships in their career. Their global acclaim is in recognition of their sheer hard work, discipline, and dedication, as well as an important indication of the growing popularity of our beautiful, artistic sport. We, at the WDSF, are very proud of Marius and Khrystyna, and thankful for the recognition from IWGA.”
Dreams are fuelled by determination and can turn into reality
The Abu Dhabi native Ketbi, finished fourth in the race among 22 top athletes. He is the 2015, 2016, 2017 and 2019 World Champion in Ju-Jitsu in the -94kg category. He also won TWG 2017 gold medal in Wroclaw, Poland, in the same category, and grabbed TWG 2022 golds in the -85kg group and Open Men discipline in Birmingham, USA.
Ju-Jitsu Faisal Al Ketbi commented: “I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to the visionary leadership of the UAE for their limitless support, which made this achievement possible. I also extend my deepest appreciation to all my supporters who have been with me on this incredible journey. This achievement is a testament to the dedication, hard work, and endeavour that has fuelled my passion for Ju-Jitsu. I dedicate this achievement to my teammates, coaches, family, and fans who have stood by me every step of the way. This achievement is not just mine; it’s a collective effort, and I am overjoyed to be able to honour my country with this recognition. Together, we’ve proven that dreams fuelled by determination can turn into reality. I hope this win serves as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging aspiring athletes to pursue excellence and contribute to the sport’s continued success on the global stage.”
To close the 2023 season, a total of 22 athletes were running for The World Games Athlete of the Year title. As a reminder, in the voting for 2022, the individual winner was Valeria Cardenas (COL) from the World Flying Disc Federation (WFDF).
The International World Games Association (IWGA) is a non-profit-making international sports organisation recognised and supported by the International Olympic Committee. The IWGA comprises 39 International Member Sports Federations. It administers and promotes The World Games (TWG), a multi-sport event held every four years that features around 35 sports on its programme. The next edition of TWG will be in Chengdu (CHN) from 7-17 August 2025. 5,000 participants from more than 100 countries are expected to take part in this 12th edition. The latest Games were hosted by Birmingham, Alabama (USA).
ICONSIAM, Thailand’s newest iconic mixed commercial complex hosted a 12-day Songkran event titled ‘THAICONIC SONGKRAN CELEBRATION: Joyful Songkran Festival, Continuing the Legacy of World Heritage’. The successful turnout, with tourists from all around the world joined in the fun, exceeding the initial target, and attracted over 2 million visitors from all over the world in 12 days.
In celebration of the Songkran Festival’s prestigious recognition by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, ICONSIAM portrayed as a global landmark on the Chao Phraya River, joined forces with the government and private sectors to welcome the Thai New Year with a world-class Songkran celebration titled “THE ICONIC SONGKRAN FESTIVAL 2024.” This event is the one and only Songkran celebration in Bangkok set against the breathtaking backdrop of the magnificent Chao Phraya River that lasted for 12 days (April 10 – 21, 2024) and honours Thai identity by blending traditional Thai recreational activities with contemporary cultural entertainment. The event delivered the most memorable experiences.
Photos supplied
Mr. Supoj Chaiwatsirikul, Managing Director of ICONSIAM Company Limited, said, “As a world-class landmark along the Chao Phraya River, serving as a significant tourist destination in Bangkok and Thailand, ICONSIAM hosts the Songkran event to be more enjoyable and memorable than ever before this year. The celebration is particularly meaningful as the ‘Songkran in Thailand’ festival was registered as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO at the end of last year.
“THE ICONIC SONGKRAN FESTIVAL 2024 showcases the rich traditions and customs of Songkran while welcoming tourists from around the world with warm hospitality and contemporary Thai entertainment. This collaborative effort seeks to create a historic event and promote Songkran in Thailand as a world-class festival. The goal is to honor Thai cultural heritage by blending contemporary elements and presenting it in a way that resonates with future generations. The Songkran Festival plays a pivotal role in driving economic growth for Thailand. This year at ICONSIAM, we are expected to welcome over 2 million Thais and international tourists over the 12 days.”
“THE ICONIC SONGKRAN FESTIVAL 2024″ at ICONSIAM featured Thai culture and traditions. Some highlights include:
Songkran Mahothorndevi Parade: A 7-day parade along the Chao Phraya River from showcasing Thai cultural richness, featuring top 7 famous actresses and artists, including Aff Taksaorn, Pie Rinrada, Becky Rebecca, Bella Ranee, Mai Davika and Diana Flipo, as well as internationally renowned Thai artist Minnie, a member of South Korean girl group (G) I-DLE, to be represented as Miss Songkran 2024.
Bathing of the Buddha Sihing: ICONSIAM has brought the replica of the Phra Buddha Sihing from Wat Phra Singh Woramahawihan, Chiang Mai Province to be placed at Exit Gate 1, G Floor, ICONLUXE Zone. Visitors can participate in a water-pouring ceremony to ask for blessings and purification. This traditional ritual is believed to bring good luck and prosperity to those who take part in it.
Songkran Water Splashing: Enjoy water splashing festivities at Water Splash Landmark at River Park, the only place in Thailand offering such an experience amidst the scenic backdrop of the Chao Phraya River from today until April 21. Moreover, there are mini concerts performed by well-known Thai artists, and other cultural performances added to the festive atmosphere for visitors both locals and tourists to enjoy.
In a landmark partnership poised to elevate Ovolo Hotels’ brand across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond, the designer hotel collection proudly announces a strategic brand alliance with Small Luxury Hotels of the World (SLH), encompassing its iconic boutique designer hotels across Hong Kong, Australia, and Bali. The partnership will see Ovolo Hotels expand its global presence through SLH’s global sales, distribution, and marketing platforms.
Ovolo Hotels, known for its avant-garde approach to tourism and hospitality; is a dynamic and innovative hotel brand with a collection of boutique designer hotels. Each Ovolo represents cutting-edge design, technological integration, and an unwavering commitment to sustainability, encapsulated in its distinctive ‘Do Good. Feel Good.’ policy and achieving the Bronze Benchmark across its Australian and Bali hotels from Earth Check, the world’s leading certification, consulting, and advisory group for sustainable destinations and tourism organisations.
Dave Baswal, CEO of Ovolo Hotels, shared his enthusiasm about the collaboration, saying, “At Ovolo, we are thrilled to partner with Small Luxury Hotels of the World, a brand synonymous with independently spirited hotels and excellence. This strategic alliance not only strengthens our presence across key global markets while remaining independently owned and operated, but also allows us to showcase the distinct character and innovation that defines Ovolo while connecting with travellers emotionally.”
SLH offers discerning guests a prestigious collection of over 560 independently curated hotels in more than 90 countries, each offering bespoke and personalised luxury experiences coupled with a firm sustainability objective. Synonymous with independently spirited hotels, delivering curated stays that reflect the individuality and character of each destination. The brand’s ‘Considerate Collection’ aligns with sustainable practices, embodying a commitment to responsible luxury on a global scale. Each SLH room night booked and stayed using the SLH INVITED loyalty member rate includes a donation to reforestation organisation Tree-Nation. To date, SLH has donated 20,330 trees for an eponymous forest in Tanzania.
Mark Wong, Senior Vice President Asia Pacific, Small Luxury Hotels of the World, expressed passion about the partnership, stating, “We are elated to welcome Ovolo Hotels back to the SLH membership. The renewed alliance with Ovolo Hotels brings more exciting promotional prospects; and elevates SLH’s presence in Australia and wherever the Ovolo Hotels brand name goes. Each characterful Ovolo hotel exemplifies the high standards of excellence and impeccably embodies the spirit of individual character and connects with the independently minded traveller that SLH member hotels are known for.”
This strategic collaboration seamlessly integrates the following hotels from the Ovolo Hotels collection into SLH’s curated collection with plans to add the By Ovolo Collective collection in Q1 2024:
This synergy amplifies the diversity and uniqueness of the offerings, creating a one-of-a-kind proposition for travellers seeking bespoke luxury designer experiences across continents.
Ryan Tuckerman, Group Director of Sales, Distribution & Revenue at Ovolo Hotels, added, “This partnership is a testament to the shared values and commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences that both Ovolo and SLH have. The integration of our eight distinctive hotels into the SLH collection amplifies the diversity and uniqueness of our offerings, opening new and existing markets through increased sale and distribution networks. Together, we look forward to truly connecting with the independently minded traveller in our regions.”
The collaboration marks the beginning of a new era for Ovolo Hotels as SLH comes together to offer unparalleled experiences that transcend borders and redefine the very essence of bespoke designer luxury.
Ovolo Nishi – Canberra, Australia
Discover Canberra’s culture, nightlife and wildlife in cutting-edge style at Ovolo Nishi – a boutique, eco hotel that’s big on luxury but small on impact. The perfect sanctuary, expect lovingly restored retro furniture, original artworks, and totally stress-free service on call. Plus, every room includes free wi-fi, flat screen TV, a blissful bathroom and 24-hour access to the on-site gym. For added indulgence, stay in a Meandering Atrium suite, and stretch out in the atrium jungle of Tasmanian tree ferns, or recharge in the bathroom with twin overhead rain showers and Insta-worthy concrete bathtub.
Ovolo Woolloomooloo – Sydney, Australia
Relax in style at Ovolo Woolloomooloo, the perfect luxury hotel for exploring Sydney, complete with indoor pool and innovative plant-based dining. Surrounded by gently lapping water, Ovolo Wooloomooloo’s unique location on the wharf offers its guests the ultimate in peace and tranquillity, all within easy reach of Sydney’s buzzing CBD. This five-star hotel brings the historic architecture of a working wharf bang up to date, with a sensitive renovation that honours its industrial heritage. Rooms are generously sized, light, and airy, decorated with pops of colour, mural-adorned headboards, clever lighting, and a nod to modern minimalism.
Ovolo South Yarra -– Melbourne, Australia
Get your groove on at Ovolo South Yarra, a hotel where classic rock and contemporary art collide. Feel cool, calm, and connected as you ease into the rhythm of a rockin’ stay. Rooms are a relaxing mix of neutrals and vintage-vibe prints, offset with accents of colour and chrome. Try the chic Boogie City room, with city views and a comfortable queen bed. Or check in to a Rockstar suite and channel the energy of power couples Sonny & Cher, and John & Yoko.
Ovolo The Valley – Brisbane, Australia
Guests are invited to immerse themselves in Brisbane’s most creative, cultural scene at Ovolo The Valley, a contemporary urban hideaway with a rooftop pool and showstopping Rockstar Suite. Based in Brisbane’s buzzing Fortitude Valley, it pops with colour, contemporary design and all the creature comforts, perfectly mirroring its hip surroundings. Relax by the rooftop pool by day, and drink in (literally) the Valley’s live music, bars and restaurants by night. It’s the perfect retreat for shopaholics, gourmands, and night owls alike.
Ovolo Central – Hong Kong SAR, China
A chic urban gem, Ovolo Central perfectly punctuates Hong Kong’s bustling SoHo and Lan Kwai Fong districts. This design-led spot puts guests at the beating heart of the action – with buzzing restaurants and late-night destinations on the doorstep. Light rooms are a work of contemporary craft. Walls pop with bold artworks and geometric prints, while dedicated seating nooks offer space to unwind. Each room comes equipped with a host of personal perks – think super-soft slippers, tea and coffee on tap, a fully stocked
minibar, and a little loot bag of sweet treats.
Laneways By Ovolo – Melbourne, Australia
Inspired by the hidden laneways and street art that Melbourne is known for, Laneways by Ovolo is the perfect spot to kick off your heels, or slip on some sneakers and hit the cobblestones. Guests can experience easy access to all the top landmarks & points of interest in the city: art galleries, shopping, sporting arenas as well as world-class restaurants & bars. During your stay, be sure to grab a cocktail or pot of local craft beer at the downstairs Amphlett House — an upbeat bistro-pub with honest fare offering vibrant drinks on tap.
Mamaka By Ovolo – Bali, Indonesia
The first-ever beachfront resort by Ovolo, Mamaka by Ovolo raises the bar with its suite of incredible offerings sure to wow guests. The stylish urban resort right in the beating heart of Kuta Legian impresses with maximalist décor that packs a punch as geometric patterns grace the walls and cool blue hues reflect the beachside environment. Then, there are the exquisite facilities including a stylish wellness centre where guests can sweat it out with included boot camp or yoga classes, a rooftop pool that runs parallel to the ocean at Mamaka Rooftop Bar & Pool, and it is also the only hotel in the world to have an official Rip Curl School of Surf.
About Ovolo Group:
The Ovolo Group was founded by entrepreneur Girish Jhunjhnuwala and first entered the real estate market in 2002; then further expanded into the hotel industry in 2010. Ovolo Hotels quickly became one of Hong Kong and Australia’s most dynamic independent owner operated hospitality firms by providing guests with the best in effortless living across hotels and food and beverage outlets.
The Ovolo Group is a collection of contemporary hotels that keep you connected to the little luxuries you love, all effortlessly included. The company prides itself on being in touch with the modern traveller through award-winning interior designs, detail-driven comforts, complimentary value-added services like the mini bar and breakfast, with cutting-edge technology. Ovolo Hotels have been acknowledged for Hotel and Accommodation Excellence, receiving the accolade “Hotel Brand of the Year”, at the 2019 and 2020 HM Awards.
A proud Hong Kong brand, Ovolo Group remains a family-owned and privately-operated business operating four hotels and three restaurants in Hong Kong, and eight hotels and seven restaurants across Australia in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and Brisbane.
Ovolo also has the By Ovolo Collective within its portfolio of hotels, a distinctive collection of four hotels. These include Nishi Apartments in Canberra Australia, The Sheung Wan by Ovolo and The Aberdeen Harbour in Hong Kong, and Mamaka Kuta Beach in Bali Indonesia.
Ovolo acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we are located. We recognise their continuing connection to land, waters and culture, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.
What we eat has a profound impact on the mind, body and brain, yet the power of nutrition and dietetic supports remain largely underutilised within Australia’s mental health care system.
The nation’s peak body for dietetic and nutrition professionals, Dietitians Australia, released a mental health briefto evidence on how nutrition therapy can be harnessed to tackle the spectrum of mental health challenges faced nationwide.
“Our health care system needs to evolve to manage the often-complex needs of people living with mental health conditions.
“That includes ensuring Accredited Practising Dietitians take the leading role within multidisciplinary teams when it comes to providing effective, evidence-based dietary therapy for the prevention, treatment and management of mental health conditions their symptoms and commonly co-occurring physical illnesses,” Dietitians Australia President Tara Diversi said.
“The brief highlights the emerging evidence that has found making changes to the quality of food intake, can lead to the remission of depressive symptoms in some people.
“Australians must be supported with food and nutrition guidance to prevent occurrences of mental health conditions, with evidence showing eating a diet that isn’t made up of nutritious foods can increase the risk of developing mood and anxiety disorders.
“There are limited pathways for Australians facing mental health challenges to access nutrition therapy and dietetic services through the Medicare system.
“We’ve been calling on the Government to create avenues through Medicare and other funding programs to support Australians with depression, mood disorders and severe mental illness to access individual and group consultations with Accredited Practising Dietitians as part of a holistic and truly multidisciplinary approach to care.
“Currently there are only limited Medicare item numbers for people with eating disorders and other chronic health conditions to access an Accredited Practising Dietitian for mental health care.
“Mental health conditions cost the economy upwards of $70 billion dollars a year from lost productivity.
“The personal and societal impact cannot be quantified, but is an enormous load for many Australians’ who live with and support people with mental health conditions.
“Dietitians stand ready to play a poignant role in transforming the way we manage mental health care in this country and will continue to advocate for ways we can better nourish the minds, bodies and brains of all Australians.
