Tag: Singtel

Singapore – This year, as Singapore’s National Day and the Olympic Games coincide, Singtel has launched its annual National Day film, celebrating and supporting Team Singapore athletes who are set to compete in the prestigious sporting event in Paris.

Titled “Shining Bright From Singapore to Paris,” the 90-second film celebrates the Olympic journey of some of Singapore’s most promising athletes. It also highlights the three key ingredients they consider essential for success: speed, resilience, and tenacity.

Kitefoiler Maximilian Maeder shares his ambition to showcase Singapore’s speed and power as he makes his first Olympic appearance this year. Fencer Kiria Tikanah Abdul Rahman, who made history as the first female Singaporean to compete in the epee event, speaks about rising to the challenge to make her country proud. Shuttler Loh Kean Yew, who has earned a world championship title and three BWF World Tour wins, expresses his readiness to demonstrate their tenacity and strength on the world stage.

In the film, athletes prepare for the Paris Olympics with their coaches and teammates, training against the backdrop of iconic Singapore locations such as Marina Bay, Gardens by the Bay, and Henderson Waves at Telok Blangah Hill Park. 

The film is the latest addition to Singtel’s series of branded films embodying its group purpose, ‘Empower Every Generation’. This guiding principle directs every aspect of the business, enabling the power of technology to inspire and uplift communities.

Commenting on the campaign, Lian Pek, vice president of group strategic communications and brand at Singtel, said, “We understand these values all too well, which is why these athletes’ stories of endeavour speak to us at Singtel. As the leading provider of advanced connectivity, digital services, and digital infrastructure, speed and the resiliency of our networks, platforms, and services are crucial to our success and ambitions to serve our stakeholders, be they our customers or communities. Our athletes also remind us that we need tenacity and a little fire in the belly to go that extra mile. I’m sure Singapore’s Olympics story will resonate with anyone who’s ever dreamed of reaching beyond themselves.” 

Singtel has also been an official partner of SNOC since 2012 and was one of the earliest corporate sponsors of Team Singapore athletes. In 2023, the group renewed its sponsorship for the third time, pledging S$1.7 million over the next five years—its largest sports sponsorship to date. This funding is expected to support training grants for athletes and offset fees and expenses at major competitions.

Yuen Kuan Moon, Singtel Group CEO, shared, “As a long-time sponsor of the Singapore National Olympic Council (SNOC), we’ve been privileged to extend our unstinting support to Team Singapore as they’ve strived to represent the country in the world’s major games, putting Singapore on the global stage time and again. The road to the Olympics requires hard work, focus, and the determination to succeed, and these values resonate deeply with us at Singtel. We are proud to feature three of Singapore’s best athletes—Kean Yew, Maximilian, and Kiria—and we hope this will inspire a new generation of youth who dare to chase their dreams and have the work ethic to realise their full potential.” 

Singtel’s National Day film will premiere on Singtel TV and across its digital platforms. Individual videos featuring the athletes and highlighting the three essential values for success will be released in conjunction with their respective event dates, aiming to drum up community support.

Singapore – Singapore Airlines has emerged as the leader in market research firm YouGov’s ‘Recommend Rankings 2024’ in Singapore, achieving a score of 85.0.

On the other hand, YouGov’s data also highlights the ten most improved brands over the past year, with Singtel Broadband ranking first in Singapore.

Despite facing controversy over a turbulent flight this year, Singapore Airlines has upheld its position as the most recommended brand among customers in Singapore.

Alongside Singapore Airlines, Emirates secures second place with a score of 84.5, followed by Japanese fashion retail chain Uniqlo in third with 83.3. Apple and its smartphone brand iPhone are positioned fourth (80.8) and seventh (78.6), respectively. Nike holds the fifth spot (79.7), closely followed by Adidas in sixth (79.1).

The rankings are based on YouGov Brand Index’s positive ‘Recommend’ score, which measures the percentage of a brand’s customers who would recommend it to a friend or colleague.

In terms of brand improvement, Singtel Broadband has shown the most significant improvement, with a score change from 39.5 to 45.3, followed closely by Food Republic with an improvement of +5.8.

Head & Shoulders and Food Junction rank third (change in score of +5.4) and fourth (+5.3) among improvers, with M1 Mobile (5.2), CNN (5.2), Shokubutsu (5.1), Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf (5.1), J&T Express (5.0), and Airbnb (4.9) also making significant strides in Singapore.

Jakarta, Indonesia – Superbank announced an additional investment of IDR 1.2 trillion from its shareholders, which include Grab, Singtel, and KakaoBank. This increased investment made by the three shareholders will help Superbank improve services and product developments to fulfil its customers’ different financial demands and lifestyles. 

Additionally, this investment highlights the shareholders’ plan for and backing for Superbank’s future prospects. Superbank is the first bank in Indonesia to enable millions of Grab partners and users to register accounts, save money, and use accounts as a direct payment option within the Grab app without having to download any extra apps. 

Speaking about the investment, Tigor M. Siahaan, president director of Superbank, said, “We greatly appreciate the trust of our shareholders in supporting our efforts to continuously create innovative and relevant digital banking products and services. The ongoing support from Grab, Singtel, and KakaoBank extends beyond investment, as they also contribute their advanced technology, insights, and network assets to help accelerate our growth. This additional investment will strengthen us in expanding inclusive financial services and accessible financing for more underbanked retail customers and MSMEs in Indonesia.” 

He added, “With such strong support from our ecosystem partners, we believe we can further increase our role in driving sustainable growth of the underbanked communities to help improve their productivity and welfare.”

Meanwhile, Neneng Goenadi, country managing director of Grab Indonesia, said, “Grab understands the importance of delivering digital banking technologies with various innovative features that are easily accessible and can help consumers manage their finances better. Grab’s ongoing support for Superbank reinforces our shared commitment in enhancing financial inclusion across Indonesia.” 

Furthermore, Gan Siok Hoon, managing director of Singtel, said, “This new round of investment underscores our commitment to promoting financial inclusion and driving digital transformation across Southeast Asia, especially Indonesia. We share Superbank’s vision to serve the unbanked and underbanked and are confident in their strong ecosystem and growth trajectory. We are glad to be part of this growth journey with like-minded shareholders and look forward to further strengthening our partnership.”

Lastly, Yun, Ho Young, chief executive officer of KakaoBank, stated, “As a leading mobile-first bank and financial technology company with a strong global network, KakaoBank understands the transformative power of accessible and secure digital banking solutions. Our continuous investment in Superbank strengthens our dedication in driving innovation and financial inclusion on a global scale, as well as empowering Indonesians with reliable financial services.”

The additional investment follows the inclusion of Superbank services directly into the Grab app. The collaboration enables millions of Grab users and partners to open accounts, save money, and make payments without having to download a separate app. This project significantly advances Superbank’s goal of delivering safe and affordable financial access, thereby increasing financial inclusion in Indonesia.

Singapore – Samsung and telecommunications company Singtel have recently released their latest campaign film, titled “AI Do”, aimed at highlighting the power of technology to bring people together.

The film, directed by Golden Horse Award nominee, He Shuming, draws inspiration from Singtel Group’s purpose to empower every generation and the many versatile uses of the Galaxy AI.

In AI Do, Hee Joo and Aidan, who are Korean and Singaporean respectively, are getting married. Together with their families, they tackle a long task list as well as language and cultural differences in the lead-up to their wedding. To overcome their challenges, the characters use various AI features available on the Galaxy S24 Ultra, supported by Singtel’s strong and stable 5G connectivity.

Talking about the campaign, Lynn Chong, director and head of brand marketing, mobile eXperience at Samsung Electronics Singapore, said, “Galaxy AI creates new possibilities for our consumers. Through the film, we want to show what Galaxy AI can do, especially how it can help people of different backgrounds communicate and connect.”

Meanwhile, Anna Yip, deputy CEO of Singtel Singapore, commented, “We strongly believe in the power of technology to connect people, unlock opportunities and drive innovation. With this film, we’re demonstrating the impactful ways in which technology is helping families overcome cultural barriers and bond as well as the numerous conveniences that a digital lifestyle offers.”

AI Do will be rolled out across various channels and platforms, including digital streaming platforms meWatch, in cinemas, on Samsung and Singtel’s social media channels such as Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and TikTok, as well as in Samsung and Singtel’s retail stores.

From May 3, visitors to the Singtel Flagship Store at 313@Somerset and the Samsung Experience Store in VivoCity can visit a set similar to that seen in the film where they can experience Galaxy AI’s photo and communication features.

As an extension of the film, from May 10 to 16, Singtel and Samsung will also be inviting audiences to submit original ideas for a creative new Peranakan pastry featuring the most unlikely combination of flavours via its Instagram channel.

Hong Kong – Telecommunications companies HKT, AIS, Globe, Optus, Singtel, Taiwan Mobile, and Telkomsel have announced that they will be initiating a collaboration as an alliance to launch a first-of-its-kind cross-border rewards programme.

This collaboration between the companies aims at delivering greater value to eligible customers when they travel to Hong Kong, Thailand, the Philippines, Australia, Singapore, Taiwan or Indonesia where the telcos are respectively based.

The programme, which is set to be progressively rolled out in the second half of 2024, will allow eligible travelers to enjoy special offers and redeem vouchers for transport, dining, merchandise, services and other incentives from the relevant telcos’ apps conveniently when they visit any of these markets.

Additionally, they can also access customer support from their telco via calls or online while overseas for free.

Talking about this initiative, Monita Leung, chief executive officer of Digital Ventures at HKT, said, “Through this collaboration, we are delighted to extend these privileges to customers of the Alliance visiting Hong Kong, enriching their local travel experiences and contributing to the tourism industry in Hong Kong. Moreover, HKT customers can relish the convenience of a seamless journey and take advantage of enticing cross-border special offers when traveling to the markets within the Alliance.”

Pratthana Leelapanang, chief consumer business at AIS, added, “The collaboration in this project marks a significant global milestone, as major telecommunications service providers in the Asian region come together to enhance customer care across borders with the concept of the world’s first cross-border telco rewards. This sets a new standard in the telecommunications industry, aiming to enhance the ultimate experience and unique privileges for AIS customers when traveling and using services from partner networks in six destinations.”

Darius Delgado, head, consumer mobile business at Globe, also added, “Through this programme, we will be able to give cross-border perks, experiences and unique offers to our subscribers when they travel to partner destinations. With this, we can ensure that when yuppies travel with GOMO PH, they are in for an adventure of a lifetime!”

Matt Williams, managing director of customer solutions at Optus, mentioned, “We are thrilled to be part of the launch of this pioneering travel rewards programme, representing our commitment to enhancing the lives of our valued Optus customers. We are looking forward to bringing this programme to our customers soon and invite them to join us in these unique experiences.”

Anna Yip, chief executive officer, business development at Singtel, remarked, “We value our customers’ loyalty and want to enhance their travel experience. With this unique reciprocal rewards programme, our customers can access exciting local rewards and offers when they visit any of the markets within the Alliance. We’re starting with our regional partners but plan to expand this programme to cover key travel corridors and popular destinations globally so our customers will have an even wider array of opportunities and new experiences to enjoy when they’re abroad.”

Meanwhile, Tony Lin, chief consumer business officer at Taiwan Mobile, said, “Imagine browsing authentic Taiwanese souvenirs while waiting for your flight, and paying for all your purchases using your loyalty points! That’s the exciting innovation we’re bringing to travellers through the Telco Rewards Alliance. Over ten million travellers across the Alliance’s participating telco networks can seamlessly access local data plans, convenient airport transfers, and unforgettable experiences, all with a few taps on your phone. This initiative will revolutionise travel convenience and customisation for our customers. Join us and discover the magic of Taiwan, one delightful reward at a time!”

Lastly, Derrick Heng, chief marketing officer at Telkomsel, commented, “Reflecting Telkomsel’s steadfast dedication to pioneering innovations and surpassing customer expectations, we are proud to introduce the world’s first cross-border telco rewards programme. This pioneering initiative aims to enrich the international travel experience, offering them superior benefits and the opportunity to immerse themselves in unique local experiences just like a local.”

Singapore – Communications technology group Singtel has launched its latest Chinese New Year festive campaign titled ‘A Date With Spring’ which showcases the power of technology to empower learning and pursuit of passions across generations.

The campaign features a film that tells the story of ‘Uncle’, who would reminisce about his roller-skating days with his wife at the park.

In the film, as Uncle watches the young skaters, he suddenly gets inspired to pick up his old roller skates and take up the sport again. However, upon his initial attempt, he would fail, so he used his smartphone to look up videos and review his performance.

With his renewed skills, Uncle would showcase his skating antics at various iconic landmarks, such as Marina Barrage and Chinatown. He will soon go viral, as onlookers will record and share his extraordinary moves. And even his family is surprised by his newly acquired abilities.

Singtel’s Chinese New Year film is inspired by the story of Uncle Heng, who attracted many audiences with his skating prowess despite his old age.

Drawing from the real-life story of Tan Teck Hung, or ‘Uncle Heng’, who also starred in the film, Singtel’s CNY film gives a nod to the power of technology to inspire and empower both old and young. It shows that technology has the ability to support life-long learning and bridge gaps across generations.

‘A Date With Spring’ is the latest addition to Singtel’s list of brand stories that seek to express what the company stands for. Working with Akanga Films, the film was produced in-house and airs on Singtel TV and various social media channels.

‘A Date with Spring’ is the latest addition to Singtel’s repertoire of brand stories that seek to express what the company stands for.

Yuen Kuan Moon, Singtel Group CEO, said, “This film isn’t just aspirational. We drew inspiration from the real life of 70-year-old mechanic Tan Teck Hung, who stars in the film, as he had indeed gone viral due to his amazing skating skills. Stirred by his personal story, we decided to turn it into a tale of empowerment for the new year, which is what Singtel’s purpose is all about: to empower every generation. Technology is not just the purview of the young. It is inclusive and enabling. People of all ages can use it, and we’ve made it our mission to help everyone reap its benefits.”

Speaking on the campaign, Lian Pek, vice president of group strategic communications and brand at Singtel, also shared, “The power of this film lies in the fact that it is not fiction. Uncle Heng is the real thing. In real life, he’s adept at using the phone and other technology. He’s 70 years old and skates like a dream—a classic example of ‘age is just a number.’ He’s pursued his passion, and it doesn’t look like he’s going to stop. We think this is a worthy message to spread this festive season; whether it’s skating or technology, it is never too late to try.”

Pek added, “We find that storytelling helps create that central narrative around our brand and evokes emotional responses from customers, which helps them make personal connections to us. We hope that this film, loosely based on Uncle Heng’s skating journey, has allowed us to communicate our core values in an authentic and engaging way.”

Singapore – As part of its anti-scam measures, the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) has partnered with telcos Singtel, M1, StarHub, and SIMBA to allow mobile subscribers in Singapore to block calls from international numbers.

Starting January 5 onwards, Singaporean mobile users will have the option to subscribe to call blocking services offered by Singtel, M1, StarHub, and SIMBA. By opting in, all calls made from international numbers will automatically be blocked. On the other hand, calls made from Singapore numbers, including those using overseas roaming, will be received as per normal.

Subscribers using the service can also enable and disable the international number blocking option based on their needs, such as if they’re expecting international calls or when they’re travelling overseas.

This new service is part of IMDA’s multi-layered measures for fighting scammers, including those operating from overseas. IMDA has been working with several telcos to solve Singapore’s problem with international scam calls and messages.

Since 2023, the telcos have recorded more than 300 million scam calls, and approximately one in every four incoming calls from international numbers has been blocked for this period.

IMDA is also working with telcos on plans to extend the service by blocking SMS from international numbers as well.

In a press release, IMDA stated, “Combatting scams is a whole-of-society effort, and the public should continue to remain vigilant. The public should continue to exercise caution when receiving calls and SMS as scammers’ tactics continue to evolve. Scammers will continue to change their methods and tactics, and there is no foolproof measure even as we continue to monitor and implement additional safeguards.”

The statement continued, “IMDA will continue to work with other stakeholders in the fight against scams. A discerning public is the key in this fight, where consumers are individually alert and raise collective awareness by sharing scam prevention tips with friends and loved ones.”

Singapore – Telecommunications company Singtel has recently announced its partnership with television channel Nickelodeon to launch an electronic waste recycling campaign to raise greater awareness of the impact of e-waste on the planet, and how recycling helps in reducing one’s environmental footprint.

Dubbed ‘Go Green with the Turtles’, the integrated campaign features Nickelodeon’s Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, encouraging members of the public to drop off their unwanted electronic devices at designated recycling bins at selected Singtel shops.

With the campaign running from December 1,2023 to February 29, 2024, the items will be refurbished by Engineering Good, Singtel’s non-profit device circularity partner, and distributed to vulnerable communities so that they too can enjoy the benefits of a digital lifestyle. 

The campaign includes a series of animated videos featuring the Turtles rallying viewers to become “eco-ninjas” and join them in their mission to reduce e-waste, or as they call it, ‘technotrash’.

These will be aired on Nickelodeon as well as other English channels on Singtel TV, Singtel TV GO and the CAST app, Singtel and Nickelodeon’s social media channels, as well as four Singtel shops. There will also be a booth at Singapore Comic Con where visitors can meet their favourite Turtle heroes, take part in challenges to win attractive prizes and enjoy event-exclusive freebies. Singtel customers get 10% off tickets to the convention.

Talking about the campaign, Diana Chen, managing director, customer management at Singtel Singapore, said, “Singtel is committed to playing its part to bring about a greener future. In keeping with our goal of achieving net zero by 2045, we’ve been taking active steps to improve our energy efficiency across our mobile base stations, increase the use of renewable energy sources and reduce packaging to minimise our environmental impact.”

“We’re pleased to partner like-minded organisations such as Nickelodeon and Engineering Good to raise greater awareness of climate change and device circularity among the public. We want to inspire more people, especially families with kids, to take steps, no matter how small, to fight the effects of the climate crisis,” she added.

Singapore – Global marketing and communications network Publicis Groupe, Singapore Management University (SMU), and communications technology group Singtel have joined forces to organise an AI-driven storytelling workshop for students.

Using as many as five AI tools, 37 undergraduate students from SMU created engaging video stories on Singtel’s impact on digital inclusion.

The student participants were given the project brief to utilise the latest AI storytelling tools such as Runway Gen2, Meta AudioCraft, ChatGPT, ElevenLabs, Lexica, DreamStudio, and Clipdrop to come up with a compelling story focused on digital inclusion.

Given this challenge, students were exposed to the latest artificial intelligence tools and technology readily available for their use. However, it also challenged them to conceptualise and create engaging, impactful, and memorable stories and characters for various audiences and media. Furthermore, the workshop aims to provide students with the skills they’ll be able to apply to real-world client projects.

As part of the workshop, five undergraduates with the best short films were also awarded with full-time, 12-week summer internship opportunities at Singtel and Publicis Groupe, where they can put their newly acquired skills to use. Meanwhile, the top 10 selected films were showcased in a mini-festival at SMU. 

The project brief for this AI storytelling workshop was created by Leo Burnett Singapore, a part of the Publicis Groupe. This is also the second time Publicis Groupe Singapore has worked with SMU to provide students with hands-on experience with AI tools. 

Something new in this project, however, is the involvement of a real brand, which is Singtel. The jury panel for the storytelling project included Bill Ang of Singtel; Jean-François Thery, head of growth at Publicis Communications, Singapore; and Tommy Tan, head of strategy at Publicis Media, Singapore.

The workshop was part of a 13-week SMU-X course titled ‘Storytelling for Organisations and Brands’ offered at the Lee Kong Chian School of Business (LKCSB). It was led by LKCSB Professor of Communication Management Mark Chong and Laurent Thevenet, head of creative technology for APAC at Publicis Groupe.

Bill Ang, director of brand marketing at Singtel Singapore, said, “A.I. is already transforming many facets of life. At Singtel, we are leveraging this technology to ideate and co-create in ways that will enhance customer experiences and drive learning. It’s great to see the energy and creativity in the work from the SMU students. Their submissions have been incredibly inspiring and have given us much food for thought.”

Speaking about the workshop, Professor Chong also explained, “As a telecommunications leader, Singtel knows how important it is for students to take new risks and try new processes using the latest technologies. It has been an honour partnering with the largest mobile network operator in Singapore to encourage a new generation to embrace AI. and push the edge of new possibilities.”

Thevenet also added, “This collaboration with Singtel has given a new cohort of 37 SMU students an advantage in the future workplace. AI is fundamentally changing the creative process, and although human creativity is more important than ever, learning how to partner with machines to create something out of the ordinary will become an essential skill for graduates.”

Meanwhile, Thery said, “Singtel has always been at the forefront of pushing the best in technology for Singapore, so it’s been an incredible experience working with SMU students to help prepare them for the future workplace—we’re thrilled with their creations.”

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – GXBank, a digital bank bank by Grab and Singtel, has been approved by the Minister of Finance and Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) to commence its operations in Malaysia.

GXBank will leverage technology and innovation to serve the needs of the unserved and underserved individuals, and micro and small medium enterprises (MSMEs). Moreover, the digital-only bank will support customers’ needs through various channels including a bank app and 24/7 customer support via multiple platforms.

The digital bank is led by Pei Si Lai as its chief executive officer, who brings with her over 25 years of extensive experience in consumer and commercial banking. The more than 200-strong team share the same conviction that combining today’s technology and finance expertise will provide the platform to empower local communities and businesses to be financially resilient.

Supporting GXBank is the newly appointed board of directors, spearheaded by Datuk Zaiton Mohd Hassan. She brings with her more than 30 years of experience in banking, audit, risk management and focus on governance and financial inclusion. Her previous roles in a variety of non-profit organisations and local banks reflects her deep passion to build and promote sustainable growth for the financially underserved.

“At GXBank, we are driven by our shared purpose and passion to bring positive transformation to the financial industry, starting with solutions to address the financial struggles of Malaysians and businesses. We are thankful for BNM’s guidance, support and trust in us to offer financial solutions and help the unserved and underserved communities achieve their dreams and better quality of life,” Lai stated.

She added, “Standing on Grab’s legacy of innovative tech and economic inclusion, we hope to redefine banking and reshape Malaysia’s financial landscape. Our collaboration with consortium partners such as Kuok Group and other industry players will enable us to work hand in hand, leveraging our respective ecosystems to nurture a resilient and financially inclusive Malaysia, where no one is left behind.”

Meanwhile, Zaiton commented, “We are at the forefront of the region’s fast evolving fintech landscape. With the collective strength of all our partners and digital banks in Singapore and Indonesia, GXBank is poised to offer equitable access to an innovative and transformational banking experience. We hope this will enable more Malaysians to be financially independent, creating a better future for themselves, their families and the country.”