Singapore – English football league Premier League has collaborated with telecommunications company StarHub for a campaign to combat illegal streaming in Singapore.

The ‘Boot Out Piracy’ campaign aims to address the risks of illegal streaming on unauthorised channels amidst this Premier League season’s run.

To highlight the dangers of piracy, the campaign features football players Alisson Becker, Alejandro Garnacho, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Hwang Hee-chan, and Bukayo Saka to speak to fans.

StarHub is the Premier League’s exclusive broadcaster in Singapore, which entails a significant role in promoting the campaign.

Recently, a study by cybersecurity expert Professor Paul Watters revealed that 65.6% of advertisements on unauthorised streaming platforms are high-risk, which may lead to malware or scams.

To further protect the intellectual property rights of broadcasters, the Premier League is conducting efforts to identify and block access to illegal streaming websites. Additionally, it is working with local law enforcement to track illegal streaming services and the people behind it.

The ‘Boot Out Piracy’ campaign is set to roll out in broadcast channels and social media platforms across Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.

Kevin Plumb, Premier League general counsel, commented, “We know how passionate our fans are in Singapore and across Asia, staying up late to follow the latest Premier League action. We also know the risks and dangers of watching matches through illegal streams and want supporters to enjoy Premier League content in the best quality and safest way through authorised sources.”

“As well as promoting important messaging, we are working harder than ever with Singapore’s law enforcement authorities and our partners at StarHub to enforce legal measures and take action against piracy. This includes collaborating with StarHub to identify and shut down piracy syndicates and working together with local authorities to address the distribution of illegal streaming devices. We encourage fans to protect their online safety and to enjoy Premier League matches via authorised platforms, which will provide the best viewing experience,” Plumb added.

“The research findings underscore the urgent need for online users to stay vigilant and avoid platforms that stream pirated content. Users may be under the impression that these sites are harmless, but cybercriminals are always planning to launch cyberattacks such as data breaches, ransomware and malware, putting users at significant risks. The Premier League’s Boot Out Piracy campaign helps make these risks clear to fans in Singapore,” Watters said.

“As the Home of Sports, StarHub is dedicated to providing fans with the best possible viewing experience. We firmly believe in the importance of protecting our content from piracy. Piracy undermines our industry and threatens the future of sports content. By prioritising content protection, we ensure that fans can enjoy their favourite sport in a safe, secure environment,” Johan Buse, chief of consumer business group at StarHub, said.

“StarHub is proud to support Premier League’s ‘Boot Out Piracy’ campaign, and we are committed to fostering a vibrant sports community where every moment is valued and celebrated. Together, we urge fans to enjoy the game through legitimate channels, safeguarding the future of football for everyone,” Buse added.

Hong Kong – Lanson Place Causeway Bay has introduced a bespoke neighbourhood map, offering guests the opportunity to explore the hidden gems and vibrant culture of the dynamic Causeway Bay community through a self-guided walking tour, just steps from the luxury hotel.

The Causeway Bay Neighbourhood Map is more than just a navigation tool; it reveals the true essence of Causeway Bay and the nearby Tai Hang, two of Hong Kong’s most vibrant districts. 

Curated with today’s travellers in mind, the physical map encourages guests to venture beyond typical tourist spots and explore lesser-known paths frequented by locals, offering an authentic experience that immerses them in the cultural richness and modern energy of the area at their own pace and according to their personal interests.

The insider’s guide features iconic landmarks such as the Jardine Noonday Gun in Causeway Bay and the historically significant Lin Fa Kung Temple in Tai Hang. It also highlights lesser-known, independent businesses, including charming eateries, artisanal shops, and hidden gems that capture the authentic spirit of the neighbourhood.

For a more personalised experience, the guide also encourages guests to consult Lanson Place’s expert concierge team, who can provide tailored recommendations based on individual preferences.

The bespoke map was created in collaboration with Hong Kong-born artist Don Mak, renowned for his whimsical style that blends the city’s cultural and urban elements, capturing both its iconic architecture and natural beauty through an artistic lens that reflects the area’s distinct charm.

Along with the physical map, Lanson Place Causeway Bay has partnered with Handl Media, a creative agency specialising in hospitality branding, to produce a series of engaging videos.

The videos complement the map by highlighting the hotel’s luxury offerings and the vibrant energy of Causeway Bay, showcasing a unique fusion of local, Western, and Asian cultures through hidden gems featured on the map. The goal is to inspire guests to explore not only the hotel but also the diverse community that surrounds it.

Recognising the rising demand for authentic, hyperlocal experiences, Lanson Place Causeway Bay’s guide invites guests to explore beyond typical tourist attractions. Through this initiative, the hotel aims to foster deeper connections and more meaningful interactions within the vibrant neighbourhood where locals live, work, and play.

Connie Wang, head of marketing communications at Lanson Place Hospitality Management Limited, shared, “As an integral part of the neighbourhood, Lanson Place serves as a crucial nexus within the community by fostering genuine connections with our guests.” 

“Our initiative in crafting an area guide and collaborating with talented creatives symbolises our commitment to uncovering the local delights of the city. By supporting local businesses and artisans, we seek to nurture the culture of our neighbourhood, creating a deeper sense of belonging for our guests,” Wang added.

This initiative marks the first step in Lanson Place’s evolving guest experience. A digital version of the map is in development, providing travellers with easy access on their devices. Additionally, plans are underway to integrate the map with further content on the hotel’s website, enhancing both accessibility and interactivity for guests planning their stay.

The physical map is now available at the hotel’s concierge desk and on the website. Meanwhile, video highlights and insider discoveries will be gradually shared across Lanson Place’s social media channels.

Australia – Toyota has launched the customer platform and loyalty program ‘Toyota Go’ with creative innovation studio R/GA Australia to boost customer engagement.

Through the launch, Toyota aims to provide customers with a platform that consolidates its entire line of products and services. It also includes personalised rewards, servicing wishlists, and profile management tools.

The membership program reflects Toyota’s brand vision to create mobility and happiness for all. Members can get both short and long-term benefits, such as Ampol rewards and exclusive loyalty perks. 

As part of the partnership, R/GA led the strategy of the platform delivery and guided its brand design.

Michael Titshall, Asia-Pacific chief executive officer at R/GA, said, “Customer loyalty is no longer static; it evolves alongside advancements in tech and changing consumer behaviours. With Toyota Go, we’re not just reacting to these shifts – we’re anticipating them, ensuring we provide robust and future-proofed loyalty programs.”

Vin Naidoo, chief marketing officer at Toyota, said, “R/GA has enabled us to solve problems in ways our customers are excited about. Toyota Go aims not only to reward customer loyalty, but also to understand, meet, and exceed their expectations. This forward-thinking approach unlocks new opportunities across Toyota’s entire business value chain, services, and products.”

Thailand – Club 21 Thailand, a distributor of luxury fashion brands, has teamed up with BBDO Bangkok to unveil its first-ever mass communication campaign, ‘Salute the Detail.’ This bold campaign celebrates the craftsmanship of iconic brands and invites a wider audience to connect with Club 21’s unique style philosophy.

The Salute the Detail campaign not only captures the essence of Club 21 but also brings together iconic brands renowned for their meticulous attention to detail, catering to the diverse styles and preferences of its discerning customers.

As part of the campaign, BBDO Bangkok created three captivating short films—Liar vs. Liar—Club 21, Mad Lover vs. Mad Lover—Club 21, and No Manner Person vs. No Manner Person—Club 21. Each film invites viewers to interpret the narratives through their own perspectives, exploring the concept of ‘similarity with a twist in the detail.’

Directed by Cannes Lions-winning filmmaker Wuthisak Anakkaporn, the campaign’s three films artfully capture its essence with the line, “We can’t change your behaviour, but we can change how you look.” This thought-provoking message encapsulates his vision for the campaign, blending intelligence with impact.

The films, infused with poetic language, are crafted to engage and resonate effortlessly with Thai audiences. Each opens with two actors—portraying the same character—who reveal familiar traits yet distinguish themselves through a refined sense of style. 

Through this campaign, Club 21 Thailand seeks to broaden its customer base while nurturing its strong connection with loyal clientele. As the distributor of some of the world’s most iconic fashion labels—such as 3.1 Phillip Lim, Acne Studios, Alexander Wang, COMME des GARÇONS, Issey Miyake, Jacquemus, JW Anderson, Maison Margiela, Mulberry, PH5, Rick Owens, Sacai, Stella McCartney, Thom Browne, and more—Club 21 Thailand continues to champion unique style and meticulous craftsmanship.

Sopavadee Bejrajati, marketing director at Club 21 (Thailand), commented, “This campaign is a brave new step for Club 21 as we embark on mass communication in Thailand for the first time. Our business strategy aims to reach new customers while connecting authentically with our existing base. It is essential for this campaign to reflect the identity and essence of Club 21 perfectly. We have curated a collection of premium brands that stand out in their details and uniqueness, all in one place, to meet every need and express individual style.”

Meanwhile, Thasorn Boonyanate, chief creative officer of BBDO Bangkok, shared, “This project is one of the most exciting I’ve ever worked on. It celebrates the beauty in details, turning the smallest elements into captivating highlights.”

Auckland, New Zealand – Accenture Song, a tech-powered creative group, has appointed Storm Day as its New Zealand lead and chief executive officer (CEO) of The Monkeys Aotearoa ahead of its rebranding to Droga5 in December.

Since joining the company in 2022, Day has been leading The Monkeys Aotearoa’s marketing operations, contributing to the team’s growth.

With over two decades of experience in the marketing and consulting industry, Day has worked with brands such as Tourism New Zealand, ASB, New Zealand Story, Fonterra, Mazda, and Asahi.

Accenture Song recently appointed Bronwyn van der Merwe as Accenture Song lead for Australia and New Zealand and Matt Michael as CEO of Droga5.

Justin Mowday, country managing director at Accenture New Zealand, said, “Storm has been instrumental in expanding the team at The Monkeys Aotearoa and making Accenture Song’s global expertise relevant to the New Zealand market.”

“She is a formidable leader with unbeatable local knowledge and experience and is the best person to help steer us into the future as we continue to champion purpose-led growth for our clients in New Zealand,” Mowday added.

“I am extremely excited to be leading this very talented team and working with our clients to join up purpose and customer experience. We help Kiwi organisations put a meaningful purpose at the heart of their culture, operations and experiences to drive growth,” Day commented.

“Combined with the Droga5 name and our incredible creative leader, Damon Stapleton, we will continue to build and sustain Aotearoa’s most influential brands,” Day added.

Singapore – VivoCity, a lifestyle destination in Singapore, has revealed its refreshed brand look that embodies its contemporary energy. The brand refresh was made in collaboration with the branding agency Anak.

The new brand look aims to reflect how VivoCity is more than just a mall, but a retail and lifestyle destination that adapts to dynamic consumer needs and preferences.

Featuring vibrant colours and imagery, the new visuals highlight people in various experiences, reflecting authenticity. Meanwhile, its typography uses both serif and sans-serif fonts, leveraging the contrasting elements to eliminate monotony. 

VivoCity’s new brand look has been incorporated across its existing programmes, including the VivoRewards loyalty programme and the VivoCity Kids Club.

The VivoRewards Loyalty Programme has been upgraded to enhance its value on a refreshed app. The platform provides a better interface along with new features such as instant points crediting, instant payment offset, and e-vouchers. The loyalty programme also has a new membership tier for additional perks.

Additionally, the VivoCity Kids Club, a membership programme for children aged 3 to 12, also has a new logo. 

“Our brand reflects VivoCity’s evolution from a traditional shopping mall into a vibrant destination where memories are created, moments are celebrated and diverse communities come together. As we look to the future, we envision VivoCity not just as a mall, but a world for all, where inclusive, immersive and exciting experiences await every visitor,” Gwen Au, vice president for marketing communications at MPACT Property Management Pte. Ltd, said.

“Our objective was to create visually compelling communications that not only capture attention but resonate deeply with our audience across all demographics and in their many roles and persona. While we take pride in VivoCity’s rich history, we are constantly evolving, offering shoppers a blend of familiar comforts and exciting new experiences. This evolution is reflected in our new brand visuals which are vibrant, stylish, and personable, capturing moments of joy and excitement that connect meaningfully with our audience,” Au added.

Lee Hanyi, creative partner at Anak, commented, “We realise that Singaporeans expect more from malls than just shopping and as Singapore’s largest mall, VivoCity promises just that. It’s not just a place to buy things, but a gateway to experiences big and small. With a breathtaking waterfront, its massive play area and more dining options than you can count, each visit to VivoCity is like stepping into a world of endless possibilities. Whatever your mood or taste, there’s always something surprising or delicious waiting by the water.”

“To showcase VivoCity as an immersive world of experiences with something for everyone, we created the brand platform: ‘A World For All’ which is anchored by a new graphic device – the Vivo wave. Inspired by the mall’s iconic waterfront location, the Vivo wave is made of vibrant threads coming together in a dynamic arc. Its many threads and folds reflect the many dimensions, experiences, sights and flavours that come together, only at VivoCity,” Hanyi said.

Hong Kong – Brand practice Anak has unveiled the launch and new brand identity of social club 1880’s latest venture, 1880 SOCIAL, a dynamic lifestyle destination situated at Two Taikoo Place in Hong Kong.

1880 SOCIAL is a first-of-its-kind, fully accessible concept that offers the brand’s signature hospitality and programming to the public. Located on the first three floors of Two Taikoo Place in Quarry Bay, Hong Kong, it joins 1880’s third private members’ outpost, 1880 Hong Kong, alongside 1880 Singapore and 1880 Brawa.

The interiors of 1880 SOCIAL and 1880 Hong Kong, designed by MSDO and AvroKO’s Bangkok studio, feature restaurants, coffee and wine bars, a gym, spa, working lounge, co-creation facilities, event spaces, and more.

Anak collaborated with Swire Properties to bring 1880 SOCIAL to life, working closely with long-time partner 1880 to craft the new brand identity. This marks an extension of the 1880 universe, originally developed by Anak in 2017 for the private members’ club that first launched in Singapore.

Anak created the name 1880 SOCIAL and developed a brand system inspired by the group’s ethos, “in service of good conversations,” capturing the buzz and atmosphere that will define this vibrant social hub.

“We envisioned an identity for 1880 SOCIAL that embodies the dynamic interplay of work and play within the space. Through punctuation and letterforms, notes and chords, steps and routines, we have created layers of innovative graphics and pattern sets that represent the rhythm and flow of life in this multi-purpose campus where conversations spark, ideas flourish, and a diverse community comes together,” explained Jeremy Tan, creative director at Anak.

Inspired by the concept of “reading the room” developed by The Secret Little Agency, 1880 SOCIAL’s logo and monogram incorporate the 1880 wordmark alongside an abstracted ‘S,’ offering a glimpse into a dynamic graphic world.

To embody its brand ethos, the system also features a conversation device that uses typography to “paint” mental images, enhancing movement, energy, and buzz.

Anak developed flexible brand principles that can be applied across various touch points within 1880 SOCIAL. Using patterns inspired by punctuation and notes, the spirit of conversation is embedded in both physical spaces and digital communications, creating a dynamic atmosphere where people and ideas converge.

Marc Nicholson, 1880 founder, shared, “1880’s expansion to Hong Kong marks a thrilling new chapter in our mission to inspire conversations that make the world a better place.” 

“Both 1880 Hong Kong and 1880 SOCIAL embody our commitment to providing world-class hospitality alongside thought-provoking programming, creating a vibrant ecosystem that will redefine the every day in this dynamic city. I’m incredibly excited to see how the Taikoo Place and wider community come together in this beautiful space and where the journey takes us from here,” Nicholson added. 

Australia – Queensland Investment Corporation (QIC) is celebrating people who bring Christmas joy in a new campaign with advertising agency Jane Doe Creation.

‘The Joy Bringers’ highlights people who spread happiness in little ways to share the Christmas cheer. It aims to inspire others to embody the spirit of joy for others during the festive season.

The campaign is also designed to be participatory, inviting viewers to enjoy the festivities.

Additionally, QIC is teaming up with community groups, schools, hospitals, and charities to spread happiness through various activities. This includes initiatives such as Santa hospital visits, food and toy donations, and fundraising.

The campaign is launching this month across digital channels and in-centre events. 

Bronwyn Cooper, head of marketing at QIC Real Estate, said, “This Christmas, we’re excited to spotlight our ‘Joy Bringers’ – the passionate individuals who fill their communities with festive spirit. This time of year can be both joyous and challenging, so we’re supporting our communities with meaningful initiatives like Santa visits to maternity wards, toy drives, and carollers at our centres.”

“But more than that, we’re celebrating those who make Christmas magical. Whether it’s putting up the tree in November, handwriting cards, or playing carols on repeat, these are the people who bring joy to our lives, and we’re saying thank you,” Cooper added.

“What a treat, celebrating those who love Christmas even more than Mariah… we all know a few! Collaborating with Austin Studio and photographer Michelle Tran again, along with director Lizzy Bailey ensured our shoot was full of JOY and we can’t wait to see how the Christmas’ Joy Bringers’ make this campaign their own!” Elissa Maine, Jane Doe Creation executive creative producer, commented.

Macao – The Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO), the Department of Culture and Tourism of Guangdong Province, and the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) have launched a joint marketing campaign featuring TV program productions to showcase the Greater Bay Area as a premier destination for Southeast Asian tourists.

Titled ‘Hashtag Travelog,’ the program will star Korean boy band CIX, who visited Macao and Hong Kong for filming, alongside Malaysian artists Danny Koo and Jordan Sen, who joined the production in Guangzhou and Jiangmen, Guangdong.

The new program aims to enhance the Greater Bay Area’s appeal and visibility in the Southeast Asian market, supporting efforts to attract international visitors.

Consisting of four episodes, ‘Hashtag Travelog’ will feature Macao in two episodes and highlight Guangdong and Hong Kong in the remaining two. Through celebrity-led tours and fun challenges, the show invites audiences to explore the vibrant attractions of the Greater Bay Area, inspiring them to experience the region firsthand.

‘Hashtag Travelog’ is set to premiere on 9 December, airing on tvN Asia channels across eight countries and regions, including Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines, Myanmar, the Maldives, Hong Kong, and Taiwan. The program will also be available on Thailand’s TrueID channel and the Viu OTT platform.

The travelogue’s debut will be supported by a range of promotional activities, including video content and social media campaigns across the travelogue’s, celebrities’, and tvN Asia’s platforms, leveraging the power of social networks for wider reach and visibility.

“Leveraging the impact of Korean and Malaysian celebrities in the Southeast Asia market, the show will build the Greater Bay Area’s reputation as a fascinating destination,” MGTO wrote in their official press release. 

“Through the cooperative mechanism enabled by the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Tourism Marketing Organization, MGTO has forged close communication and collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism of Guangdong Province and Hong Kong Tourism Board all along. The three offices work together to promote sharing of tourism resources and brand the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area as one great destination,” the press release added. 

The tourism offices of Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao continue their collaborative marketing efforts, hosting joint booths at international travel fairs, organising promotional events, producing TV programs, and arranging familiarisation trips to expand international visitation. Earlier this year, a Canadian TV production filmed a travelogue about the Greater Bay Area while Indonesian celebrities visited in July for the show ‘Celebrity on Vacation,’ showcasing the region’s diverse travel experiences.

Australia – MINI Australia, an automotive brand operating under the BMW Group, has introduced Australian singer Meg Mac as brand ambassador alongside the launch of the new MINI Cooper.

As ‘Friend of MINI,’ Meg Mac will highlight her connection to the brand through sharing her experiences with MINI Cooper in social and digital content. It will show the value of the automotive in her own lifestyle.

The ‘Next Generation’ MINI Cooper features leather-free, chrome-free, and recycled materials. It reflects the brand’s sustainability effort as it has reduced its carbon dioxide emissions by up to 85%. It is also available in both electric and petrol.

Additionally, drivers can set their preferences by customising sounds, lights, and visuals or using the MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant. Its design showcases the blend of the brand’s traditional values and technology.

Meg Mac is the second ‘Friend of MINI’ following interior design expert Neale Whitaker, who is focusing on the promotion of the MINI Countryman.

“Ever since I was a kid I haven’t been able to go for a drive without pointing out every MINI I see on the road, I’ve always been charmed by their classic design. To be joining this iconic brand and in the driver’s seat feels perfect,” Meg Mac said.

Nikesh Gohil, head of marketing for Australia and New Zealand at MINI, commented, “Meg Mac’s artistic integrity and deep-rooted values align perfectly with the MINI Cooper’s strong legacy. We are excited to call Meg a ‘Friend of MINI’ and bring the MINI’s Next Generation range to life through her experiences.”