Media OutReach

2025 TRENDY TAIPEI Officially Kicks Off

Published

4 months ago

18/08/2025

TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 August 2025 – Over 150 music performances in two weeks, 35+ cross-industry music forums—Taipei launches Asia’s newest music platform and showcases its soft power.

The 2025 “TRENDY TAIPEI” will take place from August 25 to September 7, featuring over 150 music performances and 39 professional forums across 14 consecutive days, inviting both residents and visitors to join the celebration.

7/31 Taipei City Government held a press conference at Taipei Music Center to announce the grand launch of 2025 TRENDY TAIPEI, starting on August 25. This year’s theme, “TRENDY TAIPEI: IT’S NOW”, highlights the energy and immediacy of the current music scene. The project is structured around three major acpects—The Concert Economy, Industry Trends, and Urban Actions, spanning six thematic areas such as music, art, audiovisual, technology, gaming and fashion. Starting from August 25 to September 7, the festival features over 150 music performances, 39 professional forums and citywide activities, making it the most chill and trendiest event of the summer. This is a can’t-miss experience for music and art enthusiasts.

14 Signature Events Announced: From Taipei Arena and Taipei Music Center to Live Houses Across the City

Mayor Chiang Wan-an mentioned that Taipei is the core of Taiwan’s pop music and creative industries with mature production infrastructure and venue resources. In 2024, the representing venues of the city hosted more than 530 concerts with nearly 2 million attendees. “2025 TRENDY TAIPEI” is an international metropolitan music festival unique to Taipei, aiming to showcase the city’s creative energy and charm to the world. This year, the goal is simple: bring music out of the concert halls and into the streets, allowing people to feel the rhythm everywhere—from alleyways and cultural venues to shopping districts and even MRT stations.

The programming focuses on three areas:

The Concert Economy – activating consumption through music and connecting performance venues across Taipei.
Industry Trends – featuring expert forums discussing the trend and the future of the music industry.
Urban Actions – engaging cultural landmarks throughout the city.

Director of The Department of Cultural Affairs Tsai Shih-ping noted that unlike last year’s pilot edition, this year focuses more deeply on the Concert Economy driven by music to boost tourism and consumption with big concerts, trying to make music the momentum of industry developing. The newly introduced TRENDY TAIPEI Boom: Taipei Arena Series will feature top artists from Taiwan, Japan, and Korea from September 5–7, with tickets already selling fast online via Kham ticketing. Additionally, Taipei Very Live will take place August 8 to September 7, connecting 22 Live Houses and music restaurants with 50+ diverse performances including rock, jazz, pop. Let the city glow with life from twilight to midnight and create Taipei’s nighttime music map.

The chairwoman of Taipei Music Center Sandy Huang emphasized that Taipei Music Center is an administrative organization dedicated to promoting pop music and also serves as one of the key venues representing the development of the pop music scene, This year’s TAIPEI MUSIC EXPO (TMEX) and JAM JAM ASIA present 70 performances from August 28–31, with tickets now on sale. International collaborations aim to give local audiences fresh musical experiences.

The Industry Trends section allows Taipei to connect with the world and talk to the future by immersive exhibitions and global forums. The TRENDY Fusion Forum will take place at Ambi Space One. It will host renowned guests like Sebastian Masuda (pioneer of Japanese Kawaii culture) and Cha Haley (K-pop industry strategist), who will offer global insights on pop culture and music and bring valuable international perspectives and industry insights to the forum . TMEX, Asia’s leading music industry expo, will gather representatives from 10 APAC countries and 60 exhibitors, including major festivals like Busan Rock Festival, Zandari Festa (Seoul), Thailand’s Big Mountain Festival, and venues like Zepp and Duo Live House (JP). International delegates this year expanded from 25 to over 100, including top figures like the chairman of Busan Metropolitan City Festival Committee Nam Deok-hyun(transliteration) , The curator of SXSW Sydney Kartini Ludwig, the program director of 988 FM Malaysia Hu Bi-Ai (transliteration) and Senior Program Director of MY FM Chou Wei-Wen (transliteration). New this year is an Industry Matchmaking Day, facilitating real collaborations between artists and professionals.

Other highlights include:

StartSphere Taipei, featuring startups from six countries including Japan, Korea, the US, Thailand, Vietnam and other countries.
Taipei Film Academy focuses on “AI and the Future of Film”, inviting people in the movie industry in Taiwan and abroad to explore the possibilities of technology and filming.

Urban Actions:
Expanding into neighborhoods this year , bringing music closer to everyday life and offer everyone more chances to take part in events and sense the charm of music and culture. Notable activations:

Taipei City Archives: “Taipei Pop Music Landscapes” exhibition explores the memories of city pop music .
MoCA Taipei: “NOW, I Want to Go to the Museum Too!” mixing market, creativity, music, and desserts, showcasing the city’s fresh, vibrant energy.
Taipe Artist Village: “Now Electric Lane Arts Festival” featuring 7 artist teams.
Taipei Performing Arts Center: “Shilin Fairyland Party + Silent Disco.”
Songshan Cultural Park: “Summer SongSong—Taipei Remix,” a weekend marketplace of music, creativity, and experience.

For the first time, the event extends to Taipei MRT:

“MRT Nakashi” program at Xinbeitou branch line featuring traditional moon guitar (yueqin).
“TRENDY TAIPEI Sound Experience” at Nangang Station, creating a sonic journey through commuting spaces.

Star Bands and the Surprise Trio “Wan-Ping-Ling” Kick Off the Festival

The press conference opened with rising bands from the Taipei Music Center’s Open Lab and JAM JAM ASIA’s “Seizer.” They passed the torch to this year’s Golden Melody-winning band TRASH, representing the link from indie showcases to the headline Taipei Arena series. But the biggest surprise was the debut of “Wan-Ping-Ling”, a special one-time band formed by Mayor Chiang Wan-an, Director Tsai Shih-ping, and Chairwoman Sandy Huang. Their band name combines one character from each of their names, symbolizing cross-sector collaboration and co-creation.

TRENDY Bus, Giant Guitar, and MRT Car—Come Take a Selfie!

Special attractions include the TRENDY Double-Decker Bus, running August 30–31 (five trips daily), featuring live performances by the Taipei Jazz Orchestra and Open Up! rising artists, stopping at Taipei 101, Songshan Cultural Park, and Taipei Music Center for JAM JAM ASIA.

Another must-see: the Giant Electric Guitar installation at City Hall Plaza (until September 7). Take a photo, upload it to the official TRENDY TAIPEI fan page, and enter to win limited-edition TRENDY merch.

From mid-August, a TRENDY-themed MRT train will also hit the tracks—inviting citizens to experience the pulse of Taipei’s music city like never before.

TRENDY TAIPEI is brought to life through the collaboration of Taipei’s Department of Cultural Affairs, Department of Information and Tourism, Department of Economic Development, Department of Information Technology and Taipei Music Center. It is also proudly supported by major sponsors including NVIDIA, Cathay United Bank, Taiwan Mobile, Uni-President Group, Heineken Silver, Eslite, Open Culture Foundation, Hanlai Hotel, Courtyard by Marriott Taipei Downtown, The Place Taipei, MESh+ Co.Ltd., CITYLINK, and YSOLIFE.

With its blend of concerts, performances, forums, exhibitions, and marketplaces, TRENDY TAIPEI welcomes music lovers, creatives, tech enthusiasts, and casual passersby to find inspiration and resonance in the city. Let’s walk into the city, listen to the rhythm of now, and witness how creativity redefines the power of the moment.

For more information, visit the official TRENDY TAIPEI and Taipei Music Center websites and social channels.

Hashtag: #2025TRENDYTAIPEI

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Media OutReach

Payment Options Singapore Secures In-Principle Approval from MAS for Major Payment Institution Licence

Published

19 hours ago

08/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 December 2025 – Payment Options Pte Ltd, a Singapore-based payment solutions provider, is pleased to announce that it has received In-Principle Approval (IPA) from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) for a Major Payment Institution (MPI) licence under the Payment Services Act 2019.

Payment Options Pte Ltd office in Singapore

This milestone underscores Payment Options’ commitment to supporting Singapore’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with simple, secure, and accessible digital payment solutions.

If granted the licence, Payment Options Pte Ltd will be authorised to provide three regulated payment services: Merchant Acquisition, Domestic Money Transfer, and Cross-Border Money Transfer. Through these services, the company aims to empower SMEs with a full suite of payment capabilities — from online payment gateways and QR code payments to the upcoming SoftPOS payments technology — enabling merchants to accept digital payments easily and securely.

“We remain deeply committed to supporting Singapore’s SMEs as they grow and compete in an increasingly digital-first economy. Our vision is to position digital payments as a growth enabler — not a challenge — for small businesses”, said Aaron Yip, Director of Payment Options Pte Ltd. “Our goal is to make digital transactions seamless, secure, and accessible for every business, regardless of size.”

Building on this vision, if the licence is granted, Payment Options will continue to work closely with local merchants, financial institutions, and technology partners to enhance payment accessibility and drive innovation across Singapore’s SME ecosystem.

“We reaffirm our commitment to regulatory compliance and innovation, as we contribute to Singapore’s ongoing journey toward a secure, inclusive, and cash-lite economy.”

The IPA granted by the MAS indicates that a licence may be issued upon the fulfilment of specified conditions and provided there are no material adverse developments affecting the applicant. The IPA does not constitute a licence to provide payment services at this stage, and MAS reserves the right to rescind the approval if it deems appropriate.
Hashtag: #PaymentOptions

https://www.paymentoptions.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/payment-options/
https://www.facebook.com/PaymentOptions.int/
https://www.instagram.com/payment.options/

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Payment Options Pte Ltd

Payment Options Pte Ltd is a Singapore-based financial technology company providing innovative and secure payment solutions designed to help SMEs and merchants simplify digital transactions. With a focus on compliance, technology, and customer experience, the company aims to make digital payments accessible for every business.

Media OutReach

Financial Assistance at SIM: Breaking Barriers to Education

Published

20 hours ago

08/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 December 2025 – For many aspiring learners, financial constraints remain one of the biggest obstacles to achieving their goals. SIM is determined to change that. Guided by the principle that no student should be left behind because of cost, SIM has built a comprehensive ecosystem of financial aid, scholarships, and bursaries to make quality education attainable for all.

At the heart of this mission is the SIM Impact Fund, a S$60 million initiative dedicated to empowering students from diverse backgrounds and ensuring that financial hardship never stands in the way of academic or personal growth. By blending need-based assistance with merit-driven opportunities, SIM is creating an inclusive learning environment where talent and ambition define success.

Empowering Learners Through the SIM Impact Fund

In 2024, SIM introduced the SIM Impact Fund, a S$60 million initiative dedicated to supporting students from lower-income households and ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder educational aspirations. Administered through SIM Trust, the fund is designed to empower learners within and beyond SIM’s community by removing barriers to access. Beginning in 2025, Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents with a per-capita income of S$1,750 or below can benefit from tiered assistance, ranging from S$6,000 up to S$13,500 for those with PCI of S$600 or less, S$4,500 to S$6,750 for PCI between S$601 and S$1,000, and S$2,000 for PCI between S$1,001 and S$1,750. Beyond tuition aid, the fund also provides support for overseas internships and merit-based scholarships, benefiting approximately 500 students annually.

Beyond Tuition: Comprehensive Financial Aid

SIM’s commitment to learning accessibility goes far beyond tuition subsidies. Through its Financial Assistance schemes, students can tap into a range of support options tailored to different needs. These include Enhanced Bursaries Aid, which provide up to S$13,500 per year for Singapore Citizens, and a SIM GE Crisis Fund offering emergency relief of up to S$5,000 for unforeseen circumstances. In addition, SIM encourages global exposure through Study Abroad Awards, enabling students to broaden their horizons without financial strain. Together, these initiatives reflect SIM’s ethos of inclusivity and resilience, ensuring that financial challenges never derail academic aspirations.

Community-Focused Support

The Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre (RESSEC) exemplifies SIM’s deep-rooted commitment to community empowerment and social impact. Launched in July 2024 in partnership with the late Dr Eu’s family,

RESSEC received a combined S$8 million donation, S$6 million from the Eu family and S$2 million from SIM, marking a significant investment in nurturing social entrepreneurship. Guided by Dr Eu’s vision of transforming social service through ethical leadership and innovation, the Centre equips learners and social service professionals via initiatives such as a specialised postgraduate Diploma in Social Entrepreneurship, mentorship, and collaborative dialogues.

RESSEC also provides 12 bursaries of S$10,000 each for SIM Global Education students (check that this is accurate and that it’s not also extended to those outside the SIM ecosystem) who demonstrate strong community service and leadership and those with per-capita income up to S$1,750, prioritising those with per-capita income less than S$1,000. Through this initiative, SIM embeds purpose-driven learning into its mission, empowering students to create sustainable, positive impact in Singapore and beyond

Scholarship for Excellence

SIM offers a diverse range of scholarships under SIM Global Education to recognize excellence and resilience among its students. These include the SIM STARRR Award, which provides up to S$36,000 to outstanding achievers who demonstrate academic distinction and leadership qualities, and the Sports & Arts Talent Award, also valued at S$15,000 for students who excel in athletic or artistic pursuits. Additionally, the Chairman’s Award for Resilience grants S$3,000 to students who successfully balance work and study commitments, showcasing perseverance in the face of challenges. Together, these scholarships complement SIM’s need-based financial aid, creating a holistic support system that rewards merit while ensuring inclusivity.

Conclusion: Building a Future Without Barriers

SIM’s financial assistance framework is more than a set of policies, it is a promise to the community. By investing in initiatives like the SIM Impact Fund and expanding bursaries and scholarships, SIM is actively dismantling the barriers that prevent talented individuals from reaching their potential. This approach does not just benefit students, it strengthens society by cultivating a diverse pool of graduates equipped to lead, innovate, and give back. In a world where education often comes with a hefty price tag, SIM stands out as a beacon of accessibility and empowerment. For students and families seeking assurance that quality education is within reach, SIM offers not just hope but a clear, actionable path forward.

References:

Bursaries & Financial Aid (Enhanced) – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/bursaries-and-financial-aids
Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre (RESSEC) – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/ressec
The Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre (RESSEC) Opens to Advance Singapore’s Social Sector – https://www.sim.edu.sg/news-events/the-dr-richard-k-m-eu-sim-social-entrepreneurship-centre-%28ressec%29-opens
SIM Scholarship – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships
SIM’s STARRR Award – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/sim-starrr-award-for-new-undergraduate-students
SIM Award and Sports & Artistic Award – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/sim-global-education-scholarship
SIM Global Education Diploma Scholarships – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/sim-global-education-diploma-scholarships
Chairman’s Award for Resilience – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/chairman-s-award-for-resilience

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit sim.edu.sg

Media OutReach

Beyond Academic Excellence: SIM Scholarships Champion Leadership, Resilience, and Talent

Published

2 days ago

07/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 December 2025 – The Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) is proud to reaffirm its commitment to developing future-ready graduates through a comprehensive scholarship framework that goes beyond academic achievement. These scholarships are designed to recognize and nurture qualities such as leadership, resilience, and talent. These attributes are essential for success in today’s dynamic global environment.

For decades, scholarships have been synonymous with academic excellence. SIM is redefining this narrative by adopting a holistic approach that values character, contribution, and courage alongside academic performance. This initiative reflects SIM’s mission to prepare graduates who are adaptable, innovative, and socially responsible.

Scholarships That Go Beyond Academics

SIM’s scholarship ecosystem reflects its belief that success is multidimensional. Rather than focusing solely on grades, these awards celebrate qualities such as resilience, leadership, and talent. The SIM STARRR Award, for instance, supports freshmen who embody Resilience, Resourcefulness, and Responsibility, offering up to S$36,000 in tuition fees, along with living and exchange allowances, without any bond requirement.

For students who shine in sports or the arts, the SIM Award & Sports/Artistic Talent Award provides S$15,000, disbursed in two tranches, to help them balance academic and extracurricular excellence.

International students pursuing diploma programmes can benefit from the Diploma Scholarships, which cover up to 100% of course fees for academic excellence or 50% for merit-based achievements.

For working adults who have overcome significant challenges, the SIM Chairman’s Award for Resilience offers S$3,000, recognizing perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.

Stories That Inspire

SIM’s scholarships are more than financial aid. They are catalysts for transformation, opening doors for students to turn challenges into triumphs. Take Ernita Tanudjaja, an international student who refused to let pandemic disruptions derail her ambitions. Instead, she leveraged technology to livestream events and boost engagement, showcasing resilience and resourcefulness.

Similarly, Chow Kah Ying, an ICU nurse, managed the intense demands of frontline healthcare during COVID-19 while completing her degree, showcasing perseverance and purpose. Likewise, Michelle Seah transformed O-level failure into triumph, excelling in javelin and academics to earn the SIM Sports & Artistic Talent Award, proof that determination and discipline can rewrite any story.

These journeys reflect SIM’s unwavering belief that leadership and resilience matter as much as grades, and that true achievement lies in character and contribution as much as in academic performance.

The Broader Vision

SIM’s scholarships represent more than financial assistance. They serve as a strategic platform for transformation and growth. Recipients benefit from networking opportunities that connect them with alumni and industry leaders, fostering mentorship and career development. Many scholarships also provide international exposure through exchange programmes that broaden perspectives and enhance global competencies.

In addition to academic achievement, students cultivate essential life skills such as leadership, resilience and adaptability through experiential learning and community engagement. These qualities equip graduates to excel in uncertain environments and contribute meaningfully to society.

This commitment reflects SIM’s core belief that education is not limited to examinations. It is about shaping leaders who create impact and drive positive change in a rapidly evolving world.

References: