Business Awards 2023 Collar Talent Group Pty Ltd: Recruitment Agency of the Year 2023 - Australia & APAC Insider Excellence Award for Mental Health Support 2023 Best Sporting League 2023 – New Zealand Xtreme Drivers League is the New Zealand national sports organisation for the highperformance sport of long drive, whereby players compete to see which of them can hit a golf ball the farthest distance. Founded under the IGANZ company banner, the league has gone from strength-to-strength since its inception. Company Founder Olna Ford’s journey can be traced back to 2016, when she began hosting celebrity golf tournaments in order to aid struggling clubs.We have the pleasure of speaking with“The Entrepreneur Queen of Long Drive” Olna Ford, who provides more insight into the league and the business, with both areas serving to drive high performance sport on a worldwide stage. In this issue: Business Awards 2023
Welcome to APAC Business Awards APAC Insider is excited to announce that our prestigious Business Awards are returning for the eighth consecutive year in 2023! This large and diverse region is home to over half of the world’s population and is expected to become the largest consumer market within the next two decades. This has positioned Asia Pacific as a growing hub for international business – with a thriving technology sector, a world-class workforce, and a fast-paced and innovative corporate landscape. Here at APAC Insider, we plan to recognise the leading companies and individuals who are at the cutting-edge of their chosen industries, who are responsible for driving growth and advancement across the APAC region. Despite current global financial slowdown, Asia Pacific’s economy remains robust, with growth expected to continue throughout 2023. Following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions in China, mobility and consumer activity has increased rapidly, having a positive ripple effect on neighbouring countries throughout the region. Sofi Parry, Senior Editor Website: www.apac-insider.com AI Global Media, Ltd. (AI) takes reasonable measures to ensure the quality of the information on this web site. However, AI will not assume any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, correctness or completeness of any information that is available through this web site. If errors are brought to our attention, we will try to correct them. The information available through the website and our partner publications is for your general information and use and is not intended to address any particular finance or investment requirements. In particular, the information does not constitute any form of advice or recommendation by us or any of our partner publications and is not intended to be relied upon by users in making or refraining from making any investment or financial decisions. Appropriate independent advice should be obtained before making any such decision. Any arrangement made between you and any third party named in the site is at your sole risk and responsibility.
4. Xtreme Drivers League: Best Sporting League 2023 – New Zealand 8. Island Glass & Mirror Ltd: Best Architectural Glass Retai Business 2023 - South Pacific 10. Medfuture: Most Trusted Healthcare Recruitment Agency 2023 - Australia 12. Elaine, Yun & Associates: Litigation Law Firm of the Year 2023 - Malaysia 14. Collar® Talent Group: Recruitment Agency of the Year 2023 – Australia & APAC Insider Excellence Award for Mental Health Support 2023 16. MyFriend App by Thai Innovative Technologies Co. Ltd: Best Pet Care App 2023 (Thailand): MyFriend 18. National Australia Bank: Leading Banking Institution 2023 - Australia 20. NPR Intercommunication: Most Innovative PR Agency 2023 - Korea 21. Property Tax Solutions: Most Trusted Property Development Tax Advisory 2023 - Australia 22. Illumine Ops: Best Operational Mining Enterprise 2023 - Western Australia 23. Cheers Travel Partners: Best Online Retail Travel Agency 2023 – Australia 24. YDS Architects: Most Innovative Global Architecture Design Practice 2023 25. The Lullaby Club: Best Maternity-Friendly Clothing Brand 2023 – Australia & APAC Insider Eco-Friendly Australian Clothing Excellence Award 2023 26. BIG4 Gold Coast Holiday Park: Most Family Friendly Holiday Park 2023 – Australia & APAC Insider Excellence Award in Tourism Promotion 2023 27. MetaTokyo Co Ltd.: Most Innovative Urban Entertainment Company 2023 & APAC Insider Design & Technology Award 2023 28. AGAPI Care Inc: Dedicated Community Engagement Organisation for 2023 – VIC 29. Nina’s Bees: Best Sustainable Skincare Company 2023 - New South Wales & Herbal Remedy Advocate of the Year 2023: Nina Tverskikh 30. Healthcare PR: Best Health & Wellness Communications Agency 2023 31. Sumsub: Best Global User Identity Verification Platform 2023 Contents 32. Beside Advisory: Best Financial Planning Business 2023 - New South Wales & APAC Insider Financial Services Client Care Excellence Award 2023 33. iKala: Best International AI Transformation Solutions Provider 2023 - APAC & APAC Insider Digital Capability Strengthening Champions 2023 34. Blush Boutique: Best Boutique Skin Clinic 2023 - Canberra 35. Mergent Group: Best Industrial Recruitment Agency 2023 - Australia 36. REForce Group: Best Talent Management Solution Provider 2023 - China & APAC Insider Recruitment Excellence Award 2023 37. Tokiotours: Best Bespoke Japan Tour Guide Company 2023 38. Vision Made Co: Best Supplement Manufacturing Company 2023 - Australia 39. Chia Tai Company Limited: Best Vertically Integrated Agribusiness 2023 - South East Asia 40. Connect Staffing Group: Nursing Agency of the Year 2023 – Australia & APAC Insider Healthcare Staffing Employee Care Excellence Award 2023 41. LyZadie Design Studio: Luxury Furniture & Homeware Design Studio of the Year 2023 - New Zealand & Contemporary Design Excellence Award 2023 42. Arkana Energy Group: Best Residential & Commercial Solar Installations Company 2023 - Australia 43. CIMET: Best Comparison as a Service Platform 2023 44. White Room Studio: Best Boutique Photography Studio 2023 – Singapore & APAC Insider Photography Client Service Excellence Award 2023 45. SONOTEC Co Ltd: Most Innovative Global Industrial Technology Firm 2023 46. Peak Corporate Solution: Best Employer Branding Enterprise 2023 – Australia & APAC Insider Employer Solutions Innovation Award 2023 - Australia 47. Advanced International Training Network Bangkok: Best International Professional Training & Event Management Organisation 2023 - South East Asia & APAC Insider Capacity Development Innovation Award 2023 48. EBSA pty ltd: Most Innovative Window System 2023 & Leading Provider of Architectural Glass Louvres 2023
Jan22686 Best Sporting League 2023 – New Zealand Xtreme Drivers League is the New Zealand national sports organisation for the high-performance sport of long drive, whereby players compete to see which of them can hit a golf ball the farthest distance. Founded under the IGANZ company banner, the league has gone from strength-to-strength since its inception. Company Founder Olna Ford’s journey can be traced back to 2016, when she began hosting celebrity golf tournaments in order to aid struggling clubs. We have the pleasure of speaking with “The Entrepreneur Queen of Long Drive” Olna Ford, who provides more insight into the league and the business, with both areas serving to drive high performance sport on a worldwide stage. IGANZ aims to be a world-leading sports organisation, expanding the underrated sport of long drive to conquer international markets, in the process creating a new spectator sport that can be enjoyed by people around the world, through its world-class Xtreme Drivers League (XDL). Built on integrity and fair play, the company deals with a host of clients ranging from golfers and keen drivers to sponsors, likewise providing a vast selection of services, with drive training, event management, event organisation, and player management all being in amongst the offerings provided by Olna and her team of passionate experts. With a strong philosophy regarding client service, IGANZ strives to constantly exceed the needs of clientele across every aspect of the business, maintaining its pre-established high-standards and the positive energy that stems from the highperformance environment in which the athletes and staff thrive. Much like the drivers on the XDL grid, IGANZ has a mindset that places emphasis on winning, and this ultimately drives Olna and the team forward in their collective mission to nurture success that will span continents. As XDL’s HQ is based in New Zealand, a country incredibly passionate about sport, the enthusiasm of the company’s staff is intrinsic, a very part of their culture and heritage. New Zealand is also famous for its lush country and quality exports, but the relatively remote location of the island means that there is often a lack of motivated investors or businesses willing to take on an investment opportunity such as the XDL, meaning that the team have to fight even harder to get noticed. The unbridled passion for sport and the zeal of New-Zealanders is sure to result in this goal being carried out to the final step, securing a worldwide audience for the product. None of this would be possible without the hard-working teams of both IGANZ and XDL, with Olna treasuring everybody who works for the company and the league as a “high-performing athlete”, to this end, achieving excellence in everything they set out to do, bolstered by an unparalleled work ethic. These same qualities and skills are sought out when new team members are recruited, with a love for the job and motivation being the two key elements most frequently found in the company’s highest performing staff. There are three particularly noteworthy areas that reinforce the scope of IGANZ and the XDL, cementing its offerings within the sport. The most famous of these is the New Zealand Long Blacks, initially spearheaded by Sam Jones, and otherwise known as “The Originals”. The Long Blacks were formed following the inaugural IGANZ National Long Drive Championship, which took place in 2017, and had the pleasure of having their logo launched on national sports television, much to the delight of the team and its fans. This team is a collection of the fastest and longest hitters the country and the sport have to offer, and they were announced to be taking on the Australian team in late 2017 at the first Trans-Tasman Clash, which took place at Stonecutters Ridge Golf course. The following year, the NZ Long Blacks created history on their home turf, winning the Oct23402 Trans-Tasman Clash at The Kinloch Club, claiming the Darren Wise Stingray trophy. After the competition faced a few years of delays due to bush fires and the global pandemic, New Zealand’s Long Blacks returned with a vengeance, and as a result, are the current back-to-back champions of the competition. It was December 2022 that saw the coveted competition return in full swing, taking place in Port Douglas at the Mirage Country Club. The atmosphere at the event was buzzing, and the New Zealand Long Blacks more than delivered, securing a third-consecutive win against the Australian Long Ballers, garnering the former yet another nomination for a Halberg trophy celebrating the team as bestin-class. With a careful blend of skill and showmanship, the Long Blacks again made history in the sport that year and cemented themselves as the country’s premier team and an integral part of IGANZ and the XDL. The second of these key areas is the IGANZ Women brand, which is proudly diversifying the sport and helping to bring new eyes to the product, as well as increasing participation for women and girls everywhere through the role model behaviour of those athletes who compete and champion the cause. Two of the key women serving to celebrate and pioneer women’s long drive is Captain of Aussie Long Ballers,
APAC Insider- Business Awards 2023 Emily Ashton and Captain of the New Zealand Long Black women’s team, Phillis Meti. In the same vein, the IGANZ Kids brand allows for children passionate about the sport to hone their craft early, hopefully affording them the necessary skills to one day compete in the men’s or women’s tournaments. Since operations on the XDL commenced, the desire for global expansion has only grown stronger, and Olna has received recognition from sports authorities across the 8 countries that have played host to events, with each celebrating her commitment and investment to the sport. In 2020, long drive received formal recognition from the New Zealand Sports Minister, before XDL was proudly named as the first national sports organisation in the world for long drive at an amateur level, and the professional league was set up that too bares the XDL name. When two international competitors in one such tournament hit balls down the grid at record-breaking speeds and exceptionally long distances, attention was turned to these “big hitters” and long drive was catapulted back into New Zealand’s mainstream. Now, the Xtreme Drivers League is 36 events down and has been played host to by 8 countries, with the upcoming 2024 season set to take things to the next level. Over the next few years, the success of the league only continued to grow, with a player receiving a Queen’s Honour for being a top athlete in 2022 and a Halberg nomination earlier in 2023 for Team of the Year. XDL’s 2024 season is set to be the most exciting yet, thanks to the implementation of a new technology system that will hopefully take long drive participation and awareness to that all important next level. With all this to boot, Olna explains, “one could say that XDL is seeking to be the next big thing in the sport globally.” As well as being a pioneer of the sport, Olna is in possession of the intellectual property around the Xtreme Drivers League and embodies the passion for its expansion across the board, with these initiatives set to launch concurrently with the 2024 season. This plan will see XDL branding proudly displayed on everything to do with the sport, ranging from training zones and entertainment lounges to balls and drivers that grace the field in a competitive environment. Moreover, XDL’s DRIVE trailers aim to literally take the sport on the road, simultaneously boosting participation in the sport and heightening awareness of the brand through the use of these mobile and multi-use trailers. Furthermore, IGANZ consistently aims to do good in the community, with this ethos reinforced by a list of strategies focusing on giving back and simultaneously growing the sport. Following on from the effects of Covid-19 pandemic a few short years ago, Olna and the team have been determined to break through the struggles that lockdowns brought to the industry, and hype for the 2024 season is off the charts, with fans and players across the world counting down the days to the host of events that are being held across New Zealand and beyond. This worldwide initiative is key for expanding the business and
Jan22686 Oct23402 developing the sport more widely, with the league being a key part of the long drive international federation, which too has the like-minded goal of growing XDL and the wider sport through worldwide markets. Another way that the company is hoping to achieve this growth is through XDL TV, an on-demand streaming service that will showcase all of the league’s quality happenings once it launches live to the public next February. With this system in-toe, Olna explains, “Xtreme Drivers League is set to entertain the masses and take the world’s best drivers to the tee”, promising an unmatched spectacle guaranteed to thrill. Golf clubs are a vital part of this experience for players and fans alike, and with qualifiers open for the national events that will comprise the XDL Tour Championships 2024 season, golf clubs that participate in events will be listed on the XDL website and acknowledged for their necessary and appreciated support in advancing the brand and the sport of long drive more broadly. Since the company is working with a host of international associations for the purposes of drawing more eyes to the product and promoting golf, working with stellar clubs is a key element to securing this growth strategy. XDL is also looking forward to the implementation of a global leaderboard and player contracts for the official 2024 season, which represents the unwavering commitment of the league to pave the way for the future of big drivers. Moreover, as a team of proud future-thinking experts in their respective field, the XDL crew are excited to announce their virtual training courses and competitions which are set to launch in January 2024, with these again designed to have the effect of expanding viewership figures, garnering sponsorships, and increasing participation on a global scale. Ultimately, the Xtreme Drivers League is a game-changer in the sports sector, one that possesses a keen drive to be an in-house brand leader and is taking steps to achieve this by holding firm its position at the forefront of cutting-edge endeavours to continue to revolutionise the sport. With Olna Ford once again at the helm, the team are looking forward to welcoming competitors and fans alike back to the grid in 2024, before continuing to expand across all avenues of the IGANZ business and further develop the league well into the future. Contact: Olna Ford Company: Xtreme Drivers League Web Address: https://xdlworldwide.com/
APAC Insider- Business Awards 2023
May22239 Oct23262 Established in 1999, Island Glass & Mirror has come a long way since its humble beginnings with limited finances and resources. It is now a market leader in the provision of glass products and related professional services in Fiji, with its Head Quarters in Walu Bay, Suva, and a supporting branch in Lautoka. Here we learn more from the team at Island Glass & Mirror. We recognised very early on in the development of the business, the need for modernisation and increased capabilities in the Fijian market. Progressive improvements in our operations and a strengthening in our primary product offering culminated in the opening of a state-of-theart glass factory and offices in 2017. The Island Glass & Mirror facility in Walu Bay is indeed considered “Best in Class” for Fiji, with large overhead cranes, automatic glass cutting lines, and automated edge processing and milling and drilling capabilities. Having experienced first-hand the changing building standards and need for resilient structures in the South Pacific, we understood the importance of supplying compliant products that meet building standards. We have also partnered with industry leading product and service providers from both national and international organisations, to make a larger impact around the world. With Fiji being in a major cyclone region, one of our pivotal relationships formed during the life of the IGM business was with Glasshape Pty Ltd, the leading supplier of Cyclonic Impact-Resistant Glass Solutions in the Pacific Region. In recognition of Island Glass & Mirror’s commitment to provide compliant and certified product solutions in the Fiji markets as well as their strong manufacturing and processing capabilities, Glasshape Pty Ltd awarded Island Glass & Mirror sole distribution rights for its StormShield and Ezone Low E Cyclonic Glass Solutions within Fiji along with a number of their other specialist architectural glass products, such as TemperShield – bent, toughened, and laminated glass, and VisionInk – digitally printed ceramic ink glass. This partnership was established in 2010 and has been one of the cornerstones of Island Glass & Mirror’s success, ensuring the business could provide compliant window solutions to meet and exceed the Fijian building and construction markets. Working closely with architects, designers, and engineers in the market ensures that Island Glass & Mirror is able to understand inherent needs and aspirations for each building design project. As a result of this, we’ve been able to provide robust solutions to ensure buildings are not only constructed to achieve these specific design aspirations, but also meet the rigid standards required in a Cyclone declared region. In 2019 Island Glass & Mirror acquired another leading Fijian business in the architectural window and glass space, Construction Services SP Limited. As a commercial and domestic window manufacturer, sourcing tested and standards conforming aluminium products from the industry leaders such as Alspec and Capral, the acquisition has allowed the businesses to offer the market a total compliant window package. This has further strengthened the position of both businesses. We believe the success of our business comes from four key areas. Our key strategic business partnerships, supplier relationships, customers, and, most importantly, our people. Island Glass & Mirror places great emphasis on the development and retention of our staff. We are proud to have built a culture that is more akin to a close family unit, that values relationships and time every bit as much as achievement. We encourage our staff to acquire new skills in their personal development. They can learn and operate market leading manufacturing equipment as well as programs that support business growth and development to further enhance their own skill sets. While underpinned by an achievement and growth mindset, we also encourage laughter and fun as a mechanism of value. Island Glass & Mirror has developed very strong strategic business partnerships, which has provided additional exposure for the business and enabled it to capitalise on shared technologies, marketing growth, product and equipment capabilities, and training and development opportunities that would otherwise have not been available. Being exposed to best practise, industry leading technologies, and companies within the glass related fields has allowed Island Glass & Mirror to set the tone in Fiji for product and service outcomes. We have also made sure our team are very adept with industry codes and regulations, standards compliance, and the provision of supporting documentation to meet and exceed market demand. Our relationships with the professional services market, which includes architects, engineers and designers has ensured that they in turn can provide information with confidence, being able to make recommendations and provide product guidance to assist in design excellence and ultimately, the supply of glass products and windows that are fit for purpose. Information Island Glass & Mirror provides is not limited to code compliance but also the broader issues of energy and aesthetics. Island Glass & Mirror places a great value on its customers and appreciates their support which has allowed us to grow and develop collectively. We take great pride in helping our customers to be successful and knowledgeable, helping them to understand new products, meeting energy & design requirements and glazing regulations. We work very hard at ensuring our customers are treated equitably and fairly. The provision of customer service excellence is a mantra for the group, no matter how big or small the customer is. We believe our business is well positioned for the future, while never underestimating the challenges ahead. We have identified numerous opportunities for Island Glass & Mirror, as Fiji recovers from the COVID period. There is no doubt one of the challenges that Island Glass & Mirror faces is to ensure future buildings are designed well, and built to survive the everchanging climate by providing compliant products, particularly in the cyclonic impact-resistant glass and window space. Our intent is that Island Glass & Mirror will continue to be at the forefront of this space, providing market leading products and services. Contact: Asish Singh Company: Island Glass & Mirror Ltd Web Address: www.islandglass.com.fj Best Architectural Glass Retail Business 2023 - South Pacific
APAC Insider- Business Awards 2023
Operating across Australia and New Zealand, Medfuture specialises in the provision of comprehensive medical and healthcare staffing recruitment solutions. Since its inception almost a decade ago, the company has grown into one of the most reputable GP recruitment firms and has expanded its offerings to also encompass allied health professions, dentistry, psychology, nursing, and health executives. Here, we speak to Managing Director Niraj Chenthoran to gain a deeper insight into Medfuture’s work. In 2014, experienced sales and marketing professional Niraj Chenthoran established Medfuture, aiming to create a leading recruitment solutions company. However, this vision has evolved significantly over time, responding to the changing needs of the medical and healthcare industry. In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, there has been an increase in demand for enhanced healthcare services, prompting a strategic shift in the company’s approach. Now, rather than aiming for market leadership solely in recruitment solutions, the company is also dedicated to serving as a dominant platform for individuals seeking roles in the medical and healthcare sector, providing them with an array of choices for job opportunities. To this end, Medfuture is proud to offer a diverse range of tailored and reliable staffing services, including permanent placements, locum staffing, and curated corporate solutions. With an extensive network and a wealth of knowledge and expertise, the company is wellequipped to connect healthcare professionals with rewarding and coveted career opportunities, whilst simultaneously helping healthcare organisations find the ideal candidates to fill their roles. In this, Medfuture caters to both job seekers and hiring managers. Whilst its focus is on GP recruitment, Medfuture aims to facilitate the placement of medical and healthcare professionals across the entire spectrum of the industry, including the mental health, oral health, allied health, and nursing segments. This even extends beyond the typical clinical role to include the professionals involved in management and administration across the industry. With such a broad range of focus, the brand caters to a diverse clientele that includes public and private hospitals, private clinics, dental practices, allied health service providers, aged care facilities, psychology service providers, and oral health institutions. Medfuture’s core values lie in confidentiality, ethical standards, and compliance with all regulatory requirements to ensure public safety. On top of this, it also prioritises taking a personalised, available, autonomous, and reliable approach to its services. These core values are deeply important to the company and integral to its operational philosophy. Niraj shares, “Philosophy at Medfuture is simple. The team are trained to discern and deliver precisely what their clients seek in terms of employment and talent solutions”. In terms of customer service, Niraj believes in the importance of ongoing development and improvement. By delivering the highest standard of service possible, Medfuture aims to become the destination of choice for those in search of talent or job opportunities. To accomplish this, it must consistently meet and exceed expectations. Niraj comments, “I firmly believe that every action we undertake should be rooted in a customer-centric perspective.” Operating in the APAC region, Medfuture’s focus is currently on Australia and New Zealand, two countries that are steadfast in their commitment to enhancing their medical and healthcare systems. To do this, both countries continue to integrate diverse stakeholders across various segments, including professionals, service providers, and intermediaries. In this, there are a number of significant challenges. Firstly, there is a distinct lack of skilled professionals across Australia and New Zealand, meaning that it is necessary to explore global talent pools in order to meet demand for highly qualified individuals. Secondly, immigration policies and internal healthcare regulations must be refined to facilitate the seamless migration of international medical graduates (IMG). It is important for the sector’s needs to be met without disrupting the delicate balance of market demand and supply. Medfuture operates across offices in Melbourne and Wellington, enabling it to comprehensively cover both Australia and New Zealand. On top of this, in line with its ambitions for international expansion, a global office has recently been established in Sri Lanka. These three offices work together as an integrated entity. Internally, Medfuture aims to foster a familial culture amongst its team, creating an environment in which staff members are not separated by hierarchical positions. Instead, their designated roles are reflective of their individual responsibilities. Each person is entitled to equal benefits and encouraged to share and discuss their ideas openly. Niraj maintains that attitude, training, and knowledge are essential in ensuring that all staff members align with the organisational culture and meet the requirements of their roles. In hiring, he believes that the ideal candidate is one who demonstrates high levels of adaptability. Their willingness to be flexible in order to meet the demands of their job allows for their effective training and education at Medfuture. In the years to come, Medfuture intends to establish itself as a prominent brand within the realm of medical and healthcare recruitment solutions. To this end, it will work to develop automated online platforms designed to deliver diverse recruitment services to the industry. In addition, Medfuture aims to grow as a provider of rich medical and healthcare content by establishing a platform that will serve as a dependable source of knowledge for professionals. Whilst this goal extends beyond its initial focus, the company believes that it will contribute significantly towards its position as a reliable brand. For its excellence in all areas of business, Medfuture has been named Most Trusted Healthcare Recruitment Agency, Australia, in the APAC Business Awards 2023. We are thrilled to congratulate Niraj Chenthoran and his team on their success in this awards programme and wish them the best of luck in the years to come. Contact: Daniel Anandappa Company:Medfuture Web Address: medfuture.com.au Most Trusted Healthcare Recruitment Agency 2023 - Australia Oct23594
APAC Insider- Business Awards 2023
Jan22686 Litigation Law Firm of the Year 2023 - Malaysia Elaine, Yun & Associates is a law firm driven by a passion to ‘do things right’. The firm, based in Petaling Jaya, Selangor, specialises in litigation. Since 2018, partners Elaine Foong and Ng Kang Yun have headed up a team of first-class legal professionals to provide a reliable and effective service for their clients. We take a look at the world of litigation and the professionals of Elaine, Yun & Associates. The process of litigation, as it’s known today, can be traced back to ancient civilisations such as Mesopotamian, Roman, and Greek. Although the structure of the process is much evolved, the requirement is still the same – to find a just and fair resolution to disputes. Starting in the 12th century, Common Law in England played a crucial part in shaping modern litigation. Over the centuries that followed legal traditions, societal changes and legislative reforms have built robust legal systems the world over. As the cornerstone of legal practice, litigation demands of its practitioners a rare blend of legal acumen, strategic thinking, and an unwavering commitment to justice. So when seeking legal representation, what should we look for? A team that has an implicit understanding of the complexities and intricacies of the law? Of course. A team that knows exactly how to navigate the legal world with confidence and surety? Without doubt. But there’s much more to it than that. In this world of ready communication, as a client, it’s no longer acceptable to be left in the dark. We want to know what’s happening when it happens. We want a team that’s willing to take the time to understand us. A team that’s ready to go that extra mile to provide exceptional service. The legal professionals at Elaine, Yun & Associates do exactly that. Elaine tells us, “For us, good communication and efficiency are mandatory skills. Sure, we need good communication skills inside the courtroom to get the best results for our clients. But that’s not all. By making sure we communicate effectively with our clients we get a better understanding of their needs and their expectations. We’re very passionate about what we do and have gained a reputation for defending our clients’ interests to the last, whether that’s inside or outside the courtroom.” Elaine herself began her legal career after training at Northumbria University in Newcastle-upon-Tyne. Following completion of her Bar Professional Training Course in 2013, she became a member of Middle Temple Inn and began her pupillage in 2014 with Messrs Ng and Yeong. Later the same year, Elaine was admitted as an Advocate and Solicitor of the High Court of Malaya. She tells us, “As a managing partner, I’m committed to providing the very best practical and legal solutions for every client of the firm. My own legal work focuses predominantly on civil litigation practice and I’ve brought cases to all tiers of the Malaysian courts, including trials and appeals.” The areas of practice that the firm offers are not confined to criminal and civil litigation. Elaine, Yun & Associates also offers dispute resolution services to the corporate, commercial, construction, and financial sectors. The firm’s repertoire extends to areas including intellectual property and conveyancing. This multifaceted approach positions Elaine, Yun & Associates as a comprehensive legal partner, capable of addressing a myriad of legal needs for its clients. Oct23357 Elaine’s own experience stretches across an impressive array of areas including maritime law, employment, negligence, family law, intellectual property disputes, industrial relations, and probate. As a Registered Trademark Agent, she also advises clients on the legal aspects of trademarks, copyrights, patents, industrial design, and other intellectual property. Joining Elaine, partner Ng Kang Yun began her career handling property sales and purchase agreements for developers, eventually coming to specialise in all aspects of land law. Ng currently heads up the firm’s corporate and conveyancing department but is often called upon to assist with litigation and dispute resolution in her areas of speciality. Elaine says, “As one of the managing partners of the firm, Ng’s dedication to the practice of law and her commitment to delivering the best service every time is second to none.” The firm currently boasts no less than seven legal professionals with specialisms in areas ranging from conveyancing to litigation. Lim Cai Chin, who gained her LLB (Hons) from the University of London (External), is the managing partner of the firm’s branch in Muar.Elaine says, “Lim has been with the firm as a partner since 2019. She is one of our experts on the subject of property. Her vast experience in disposal, acquisition, probate, and estate administration ensures we can offer highquality, ethical services to all our clients in these areas.” The firm offers pupillage to law graduates too and this year has seen two of its newest recruits, Hwang Xuan and Joyce Ngu admitted to the High Court of Malaya. Meanwhile, Elaine herself is passionate about combatting bullying and cyberbullying. This global issue can take various forms which include posting hurtful comments, spreading rumours and even creating fake profiles to impersonate people. The anonymity of online platforms emboldens individuals to engage in harmful behaviour that can if left unchecked, result in serious consequences. The Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) provides guidelines for dealing with online harassment, but enforcement of the regulations is still a work in progress. As a guest speaker on the topic, Elaine has already visited several schools in Muar to spread awareness. By encouraging open dialogue, Elaine hopes to inspire young people to speak up, knowing that they will be supported in their journey to dealing with this growing problem. There’s no doubt that Elaine, Yun & Associates is a force for good in the world. We anticipate that the firm will continue to grow and expand its reach in all areas of the law over the coming years. Let’s see what news Elaine and the team have for us in 2024! Contact Details Contact: Elaine Foong Hui Ling Company: Elaine, Yun & Associates Web Address: www.eyalawyers.com
APAC Insider- Business Awards 2023
May22239 Oct23289 As a forward-thinking recruitment agency, Collar® has honed its expertise in matching exceptional candidates with exceptional opportunities and is committed to providing its clients with the best possible service. In the wake of the firm being named in the APAC Business Awards 2023, we find out more from the firm’s Founder, about its dedication to diversity and inclusion, and the steadfast belief that everyone deserves a fair chance to succeed. Established in July 2021 by Chief Executive Officer, Ephram Stephenson, Collar® Talent Group Pty Ltd (Collar®) specialises in professional recruitment for contract, permanent and project requirements with multi-dimensional capabilities across all facets of recruitment. The firm’s ability to match candidates with the right role comes down to the expertise of its dedicated recruitment consultants and it has more than 110 specialists nationally who are passionate about their work and believe in making a difference in people’s lives. With over 400 years of collective recruitment experience, the team is one of the most successful in the business, specialising in placing hundreds of candidates weekly, across both blue and white collar roles, in permanent and temporary capacities. “At our core, Collar® is a recruitment agency that cares deeply about the wellbeing of our candidates, clients, and employees,” Ephram tells us. “We are committed to providing a safe and healthy working environment, to complying with all relevant legislation and standards, and to continual improvement of our health and safety performance.” Since its establishment, the agency has set out to revolutionise the recruitment industry by setting the gold standard for customercentricity, aiming to become a leader within the industry, not because of its profit margins, but because it treats everyone with the respect they deserve, regardless of their background, gender, race, or age. The establishment of Collar Momentum™ is evidence of the firm’s commitment to diversity, inclusion, and in building employment opportunities for all job seekers. Collar Momentum™ is a leading indigenous recruitment services provider. “Together, we have created a partnership to provide a comprehensive and inclusive recruitment process for businesses across the country,” Ephram elaborates. “With a proven track record of successful recruitment processes, Collar Momentum™ leverages our tested systems and processes to create a pool of highly qualified and suitable candidates.” One of the unique features of Collar Momentum™ is its commitment to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the recruitment process. The company believes that a diverse workforce fosters better outcomes for both businesses and employees, leading to a more productive and harmonious work environment. Collar Momentum’s team of experts mentor and guide indigenous jobseekers throughout their journey to job readiness, providing ongoing support to ensure their long-term success in sustainable employment. To help implement Collar Momentum™, the agency has its own in-house Aboriginal and Diversity Consultant, Kylie Taylor, who provides a range of services to assist businesses across Australia in building an inclusive and culturally safe working environments. Kylie is a proud Noongar-Yamatji woman born on Wadjak (Rockingham) boodjar (Country) and has lived on Bindjareb (Mandurah) boodjar the majority of her life. Kylie is extremely passionate about her culture, and educating non-First Nation Australians on culture, history, and First Nation Peoples’ perspectives. Through cultural awareness training, Kylie strives to build a workplace environment which not only embraces, but celebrates cultural differences and diversity. Kylie thrives working within her culture and is dedicated to building a brighter, inclusive future for Australia, and Reconciliation for First Nation Peoples. When it comes to the wider team, all Collar® consultants undergo comprehensive training when inducted into the company, to ensure they are well-versed in its services, processes, and best practices. They receive specialised training on our client-specific requirements and are suitably equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to handle various inquiries related to candidate placements, billing, compliance, and other aspects of our services. Moreover, the recruitment and operational staff possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, enabling them to interact professionally and empathetically with all clients. Additionally, Collar® has invested substantial time and effort into creating a workplace which functions seamlessly using technology, providing convenience and quality to both its customers and our clients. “We believe that our cutting-edge technology gives us a competitive advantage in the market and highlights our ingenuity,” Ephram enthuses, speaking of the agency’s USPs. “With advanced payroll automation, technologyassisted accessibility, and our technological adaptability, we are introducing technology into our industry in a way that positions us ahead of our competition.” The APAC region itself is vast and diverse, containing several countries and territories spread across Asia and the Pacific Ocean. Collar® operates in Australia and the Philippines, both of which are part of the larger APAC region, and its offices are strategically positioned in major cities throughout Australia’s states and territories. The agency also has an office in the Philippines to support its international recruitment efforts. There are, however, certain challenges facing Collar®. For example, the current skills deficit in the Australian job market, along with its low unemployment rate of 3.7%, is one of our agency’s most challenging issues. The skills shortage is due to a variety of factors, including changes in immigration policies during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as an ageing workforce. As a result, there is a present shortage of Technicians and Trade Workers, as well as Professional Occupations (Health, Engineering, Information Communication Technology (ICT), and employment in the Science sector. To address the challenge of the ongoing skills shortage within the Australian job market, Collar® has implemented a range of innovative solutions. “Our most impactful innovation to address the skills shortage has been our international recruitment activities,” states Ephram. “Our agency currently has a physical office location within the Philippines where our international healthcare recruitment consultant attracts and sources top healthcare and aged care talent, as well as providing ongoing support to successful candidates to relocate Recruitment Agency of the Year 2023 – Australia & APAC Insider Excellence Award for Mental Health Support 2023 Collar® Talent Group Pty Ltd
APAC Insider- Business Awards 2023 to Australia, and giving assistance and guidance to our candidates throughout their relocation and VISA application process.” Despite this obstacle, Collar® is lucky enough to be in a unique position to help build a stronger, and more inclusive workforce, and can actively contribute to greater economic growth and social cohesion for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples and communities. Its commitment to empowering these indigenous people is demonstrated through the establishment of Collar Momentum™. Additionally, Collar’s presence across Australia enables the agency to provide support and social benefits to all the local communities in which it operates, and it is committed to assisting local communities whilst developing a history of collaborating with local organisations and initiatives to help enhance the lives of residents. Ephram tells us more: “As a company, we are proud to be involved in sponsoring various grassroots sports teams and clubs Australiawide. We are passionate about supporting local communities and providing opportunities for children to participate in team sports. We believe that participating in sports helps to develop important life skills, such as teamwork, communication, and leadership. Through our sponsorships, we hope to encourage young people to get involved in sports and to provide them with the opportunity to be part of vibrant, encouraging, and team-spirited groups.” Collar® also encourages its staff to volunteer and provides paid volunteer time to benefit local organisations, with a goal to create a company which people care about, and a company which cares for its people. As a progressive recruitment agency that prioritises its core values in all its operations, its core values include collaboration, accountability, humility, wellbeing, safety, and respect. “This culture has been built on our values, and our vision to become a revolutionised customercentric recruitment agency.” Recently, for its dedication to both its employees and the people of Australia, Collar ® gained recognition in the APAC Business Awards and was named Recruitment Agency of the Year 2023 – Australia, as well as clinching the coveted APAC Insider Excellence Award for Mental Health Support 2023. The future is looking bright and lucrative, with the agency building a bespoke CRM using Salesforce technology to provide a better service for clients and candidates, streamlining the experience and delivery for clients and addressing some of the issues the recruitment industry sees in the technology in today’s market. “We are always pushing to be innovative and forward-thinking with how we can do things better and recruit a better way,” Ephram finalises. “Recruitment has been around for many years, but it’s our mission not just to talk the talk, but also walk the walk, and stick to our word - we strive to be pioneers in the industry and lead by example of how we can do things better.” Contact Details Contact: Ephram Stephenson Company: Collar® Talent Group Pty Ltd Web Address: www.collar.group
Jan22686 Best Pet Care App 2023 (Thailand): MyFriend Bangkok-based company, MyFriend is revolutionising the way we care for our pets. Pet lovers, Kevin Pantanella and Linda Pantanella Nilson founded MyFriend in March 2021. Motivated by their love of their furry friends, the couple created the MyFriend app to make caring for your pet easier and more enjoyable. We chat with Linda to find out more about the app and the company that drives it. Ask any pet lover about the highlight of their day and they’ll tell you about the peaceful time spent walking their dog or the fun they had playing games with their cat. The bond between animal and human is a strong one and our pets are often more than happy to take centre stage. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the APAC region has seen a surge Oct23070 in the number of new pet owners, particularly Gen Z and Millennials. The trend of pet humanisation – treating pets, typically dogs and cats, as if they were human – has created an exciting and expanding marketplace. Pet humanisation sees owners considering their pets as even more integral members of the family than before. Some common examples include dressing pets in clothing, celebrating their birthdays, and feeding them human-grade, often gourmet meals. This shift in the way society views and interacts with animals, moves away from the traditional role of a pet as a companion or working animal. As a result, the average spend on goods and services for pets in the APAC region has seen a dramatic increase. This trend has given the pet industry a new lease of life, making it lucrative for businesses and investors. MyFriend is an all-in-one pet application designed to cater to all the needs of pets and their ‘parents’ in everyday life. As pet owners themselves, Kevin and Linda know all about the daily frustrations and struggles that pet parents face. Motivated to find a remedy, they created MyFriend to make life easier and more fun. Linda says, “It can be challenging to be a parent of a furry companion in a not-so-petfriendly city like Bangkok. Our goal is to offer pet parents a solution that means there’s less time for stress and more time for the things that matter, like cuddles and walkies!” The company’s mission is to be a constant companion to the pet parent. There’s advice and support for all stages of a pet’s life, from considering adoption to taking care of its everyday needs and even end-of-life care. The centralised application offers a marketplace to buy supplies and toys, a special pet calendar that keeps track of appointments and pay dates, and an interactive map showing petfriendly venues. MyFriend is busy adding services to the app. Soon to come are pet boarding, sitting and walking services, daycare, health insurance, online vet consultations, missing pet alerts, plus lots more features. Linda tells us, “We have a unique approach to pet humanisation. We recognise that pets are family members. We understand the importance of pets and how they enhance our everyday lives and we want our clients to feel understood. Everyone has different preferences when it comes to caring for their beloved animal and we’re ready to go that extra mile to meet their expectations.” From human-grade treats to matching outfits, MyFriend caters to the fun and serious side of pet care. Offering personalised recommendations, pro-active outreach, hassle-free ordering, and top-notch customer service, the company wants its clients to experience a new level of care in the sector. And to do that, the team behind the MyFriend app has to be something special. Linda explains, “As our company name implies, we are all friends at MyFriend. The culture of the company extends far beyond the hours we work together. Our employees have created relationships and friendships to last for life. It was unintentional, but by selecting the candidates with the best mindset for the job, we’ve brought together a team of very like-minded individuals.” Although the company values experience and hard skills, its priority for recruitment lies elsewhere. Linda adds, “To us, the right mindset and attitude
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