History of Lamb Weston

Lamb Weston was founded in 1950 by Gilbert Lamb, on a small farm in Weston, in the Pacific Northwest of the United States of America. They have grown into one of the world’s largest frozen potato companies and a trusted partner for restaurants worldwide. 

Over the decades, Lamb Weston has led the industry in innovation – from inventing the water gun knife (an innovative potato cutting technology), in the 1960s to pioneering its proprietary Stealth batter coating and developing a variety of unique fry cuts enjoyed by consumers globally. 

Four signature fries now in Singapore

Lamb Weston new retail range brings four distinct fry styles to Singapore, each designed to deliver crispy perfection every time:

1. Original Fries: Classic skin-on cut for a rustic, hand-cut appeal and authentic potato flavour
2. Grill Fries: Bold crinkle grooves seasoned with salt and pepper for a crunchy exterior and fluffy interior
3. Ziggy Fries: Signature zig-zag cut with deep ridges for unbeatable crispiness 
4. Potato Dippers: Unique scoop-shaped fries perfect for dipping, sharing, and adding fun to any meal

Each fry is coated with Lamb Weston’s exclusive Stealth batter, an invisible coating that locks in crispiness for twice as long as the regular fries – whether cooked in the oven or air fryer. All products are Halal-certified, vegan, and gluten-free, catering a diverse group of dietary preferences. 

Sustainability at the core

With sustainability at the core, Lamb Weston goes beyond production innovation with its sustainable packaging. The new retail packs are 20% thinner and contain at least 60% bio-renewable polyethylene made from used cooking oil, cutting their carbon footprint by around 30% compared to conventional packaging. 

This initiative supports Lamb Westons’s global sustainability targets to halve food waste and reduce carbon emissions by 25% by 2033.

Exclusive launch offers in Singapore

Lamb Weston is celebrating its debut in Singapore, the fries are available at a special introductory price of SGD$6.15 (usual price of SGD$6.65) for a limited time at FairPrice stores across Singapore.

From 22nd November 2025, there will be weekend sampling roadshows held at select FairPrice locations, where shoppers can taste the new fries and redeem a free Lamb Weston Fry Clip Fridge Magnet – a fun and practical food sealer shaped like a fry – with any two-pack purchase in a single transaction. Redemptions are available only during sampling events and while stocks last. 

“We’re thrilled to bring Lamb Weston’s world-class fries to consumers homes in Singapore,” said Jeevan Dass, Senior Commercial Director, Asia Pacific. “For 75 years, we’ve been driven by a love of potatoes and a passion for innovation. Our fries are more Lamb Weston Proprietary than just a snack, they’re crafted for real moments of joy – whether you’re sharing with family, entertaining friends, or simply indulging yourself. Launching in Singapore allows more consumers to experience the crispiness, flavor, and quality that have made Lamb Weston a trusted name around the world.” 

Follow Lamb Weston Singapore!

Follow Lamb Weston Singapore official Facebook and Instagram accounts to stay updated on roadshow locations, recipes, and promotions! 

Potato lovers in Singapore, remember to check out Lamb Weston signature fries and its recipes to make delicious potato dishes!

* Information and pictures courtesy of Lamb Weston Singapore and Redhill *

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Street Corner Heritage Galleries Scheme

For those who might not be too familiar or heard about Street Corner Heritage Galleries previously. What is the Street Corner Heritage Galleries Scheme all about?

The Street Corner Heritage Galleries scheme by the National Heritage Board (NHB) started off in Balestier in 2020, followed by Kampong Gelam in 2021, Little India in 2022 and Chinatown in 2022. The Street Corner Heritage Galleries scheme is an excellent way to celebrate and document the rich experiences of heritage businesses, this scheme aims to foster a deeper appreciation for heritage in everyday spaces.

Under this scheme, NHB works closely with interested owners of heritage businesses with at least 30 years of history to co-create “mini-museums” to showcase the history, heritage, culture and stories of their businesses and trades, through the displays of historical documents, photographs and artefacts.

A brief history of Katong-Joo Chiat district

You would probably know Katong-Joo Chiat from pictures of the colourful pre-war Peranakan shophouses, that attracts not only locals to head there for a photo shoot. Our international friends have also make their way into Katong-Joo Chiat district for its charm, beauty and colourful blend of old and new, from its colourful pre-war shophouses in the neighbourhood, the diverse communities co-existing with modern shopping malls and hip cafes. 

There are rich history, heritage and culture elements in Katong-Joo Chiat, waiting for you to discover them behind those heritage businesses in Katong-Joo Chiat. Each has their own story of resilience, innovation and intergenerational piety. What are some of the stories and insights into heritage businesses in this vibrant Katong-Joo Chiat precinct? What are some of the lesser-known anecdotes behind those classic delicacies to inspirational tales of intergenerational support and cooperation? 

Why not take a walk and explore Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat, discover and find out more about them?

Six Participating Businesses for Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat

NHB is launching Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat with six participating businesses: 

• Kway Guan Huat Joo Chiat Popiah
• Joo Chiat Fei Fei Wanton Noodle House
• Kim Choo Kueh Chang
• Guan Hoe Soon Restaurant
• Sin Heng Claypot Bak Koot Teh
• D’Bun

Our SG Heritage Plan 2.0 – Empowering the Community 

This Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat is an expansion of the scheme, as part of the NHB’s ongoing efforts under the Our SG Heritage Plan 2.0, to empower more Singaporeans to get involved with the celebration of our heritage and support heritage businesses and crafts. The Street Corner Heritage Galleries scheme provides curatorial support and assistance in terms of research and content development, and funding for the fabrication of showcases. 

NHB will also work closely with the heritage businesses to develop programmes that complement the showcases, and provide opportunities for them to participate in key NHB events to increase awareness of their businesses and offerings. 

What can the public look forward to? From guided trails and workshops that will showcase the Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat during NHB’s inaugural Heritage Activation Nodes (HAN), that will be launched in Katong-Joo Chiat district and various precincts from this year as part of NHB Our SG Heritage Plan 2.0. The HAN provides opportunities for the community to develop and implement projects that will increase the number of heritage touchpoint in the heartlands and celebrate the distinctive heritage of their neighbourhoods. 

Mr Gerald Wee, Director, Education and Community Outreach, NHB said: “We have been encouraged by the success of the pilot Street Corner Heritage Galleries scheme over the past three years. Feedback from the business owners has been positive and we hope this expansion of the scheme will allow more heritage businesses to showcase their stories and heritage, and to benefit from increased public awareness and support.”

A short tour of Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat

During the media session, we took a short tour of the Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat district. Starting off at Guan Hoe Soon Restaurant, next was Kway Guan Huat Joo Chiat Popiah, Joo Chiat Fei Fei Wanton Noodle House and Kim Choo Kueh Chang.

Although it was a short session at each location due to time constraints, we heard stories from the  people behind the those heritage businesses. Although I had explored Katong-Joo Chiat quite a fair bit over the years for heritage, history and arts related events and activities, as well as doing photography shoots at various locations in the iconic Katong-Joo Chiat, hanging out at the Katong Square Lifestyle & Vintage Market by The Retro Factory, there were still many stories that I am hearing it for the first time about Katong-Joo Chiat district. 

As I don’t stay in the east side of Singapore, and I am not too knowledgable about Peranakan cuisine, I didn’t know about the history and legacy of Guan Hoe Soon Restaurant until that day when I stepped into the premises for the start of the media event for Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat. I would love to visit and try their authentic Peranakan cuisine after trying out some of their delicious kueh and light bites that they prepared for the media event. 

Next up was Kway Guan Huat Joo Chiat Popiah. I heard about them previously, now I got to visit their store and hearing them share their history, stories and journeys. I love to eat popiah, I am going to check out their website, see which popiah skin or popiah sets to order, and plan a popiah eating gathering.

Visiting Kim Choo Kueh Chang at Joo Chiat Place, the original location and also its main factory, it was not the same as their East Coast Branch where I visited a few times over the years whenever there were events held in the Katong-Joo Chiat district. We were given a tour of their factory during our media tour, hearing them share about KIm Choo Kueh Chang history, stories and journeys. 

On a personal note, it was good to meet Mr Lim of Joo Chiat Fei Fei Wanton Noodle House again, I met him a few years back, thanks to Victor, a senior in Scouting, also a heritage enthusiast that I met at Katong Square Lifestyle & Vintage Market, for introducing him. 

The four Street Corner Heritage Galleries in Katong-Joo Chiat district that we visited, all had their own unique history, stories and journeys, from one generation to the next. I would like to invite you to explore and check them out during your exploration of Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat, whereby you can learn more about their origins, how they continued to thrive and grow over the years.

For more information on Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat

If you like to know more information on Street Corner Heritage Galleries: Katong-Joo Chiat, please visit https://go.gov.sg/schgkatongjoochiat 

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While I am soaking in the year end festivities, I wasn’t too much into photographing those Christmas tree light up decorations like before. Therefore, I am using back my old Christmas tree photograph that I shot in Hokkaido from a few years back in 2016. I am going to slow down, take a bit of rest break during the final week 52 of year 2023, I would also try to clear as many backlogs that I have on hand in my visual storytelling, photography, travel, food, history, heritage, culture and arts segments. Leading up to the start of 2024, I am going into reflection and review mode, as well as strategic planning and directions for year 2024 in my photography, travel, content creation and creative sectors. 

As this is also the year end bird migration season, during the last week of 2023 rest break, I am going into the outdoors, parks, coastal areas etc for some hiking in the outdoors and bird photography action. 

Last but not least, thank you for your support for my photography, travel and writing for Year 2023! Wishing all a Merry Christmas 2023 and Happy Holidays! Have a good year end holiday break and festivities! 

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On the morning of Sunday19th November 2023, Our Fish Storey was officially launched by Members of Parliament (MPs) for Tampines GRC: Mr Masagos Zulkifli, the Minister for Social and Family Development, Second Minister for Health and Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs; Dr Koh Poh Koon, Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment and Ministry of Manpower; Mr Desmond Choo, Mayor of North East District; and Mr Baey Yam Keng, Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment and Ministry of Transport. 

Tampines Town Council x Aqualita Ecotechnology Partnership – “Grow More with Less”

Tampines Town Council has partnered with local company, Aqualita Ecotechnology, to implement a Recirculating Aquaculture System (RAS) to grow jade perch that is safe, scalable and sustainable. This project is catalysed by Temasek Foundation, and was developed based on more than 15 years of research by Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory. 

The story of Our Fish Storey 

Our Fish Storey is part of Tampines Goes Farming, this is a series of projects that are supporting Singapore’s “30 by 30” goal to grow food here for food security. Tampines town is supporting local farms’ efforts by identifying under-utilised spaces where climate-resilient and resource-efficient urban farming methods can be tested and implemented. Tampines also boasts a tilapia fish farm and a rooftop vegetable farm. All these projects have one thing in common – engaging the community and encouraging residents to adopt a sustainable farm-to-table lifestyle.

Our Fish Storey consists of Aqualita’s single 20-foot container housing the RAS. This is a highly modular system that addresses land scarcity and labour challenges in Singapore. With this standalone system, it provides a cleaner and more controlled environment, and is not affected by adverse climatic conditions and harmful organisms. This also eliminates the need for antibiotics, allowing the up-cycling of fish waste, and reducing pollution caused by uneaten feed. The parameters of this modular growing environment can be remotely monitored, reducing the need for on-site staff. A single system can produce up to 1,200kg of jade perch annually, within a space of 15 square metres. 

Community-centric approach

More than just the efficient production of fresh fish, the community-centric approach will also offer other benefits, such as creating employment opportunities within the community, as well as serving as a space for educational activities. Aqualita and the Tampines Town Council will also collaborate with volunteer groups to ensure that lower-income families and those in need have access to fresh, nutritious fish. 

Since the fish will be farmed on-site in Tampines, this will significantly reduce delivery time and transport costs. To ensure that more Tampines residents can access fresh fish with far fewer food miles, the Tampines Round Market & Food Centre Merchants’ Association is collaborating with local fishmongers to sell the jade perch. This will further support residents’ efforts towards a more sustainable lifestyle.

Mr Desmond Choo, the Mayor of North East District and Chairman of Tampines Town Council said, “Singapore is heavily reliant on food imports and faces the risk of supply disruptions, like the one we experienced during the COVID-19 pandemic. With modern urban farming being implemented in Tampines, we hope to contribute to the nation’s “30 by 30” food goal. I am heartened to see our progress in food sustainability and hope our residents will support this initiative and enjoy the farm-to-fork goodness.” 

Mr Lim Hock Chuan, Head of Programmes of Temasek Foundation, said “Together with Temasek Life Sciences Laboratory, Temasek Foundation is happy to support this successful deployment of ‘Our Fish Storey’, a Recirculation Aquaculture System by Aqualita, as a first step towards commercialisation. This partnership with Tampines Town Council is important so that we can bring such stacked container fish farm to more communities, reduce our carbon footprint and ultimately, enhance Singapore’s food security and resilience in the long term.” 

Mr Peter Chia, CEO of Aqualita Ecotechnology commented, “We are delighted to partner Tampines Town Council to give a glimpse of what the future of sustainable urban fish farming – where technology and innovation meets food security to benefit communities – could be to an urban city like Singapore. We are thankful for the support from TTC and all our partners as well as the various regulatory agencies in making this project possible. We hope that we can help make more affordable fresh fish available to the residents of Tampines and do so with a smaller environmental and ecological footprint. We welcome parties interested in joining us on this journey to reach out to us so that we can scale this solution to other parts of Singapore together.”  

Food x Food Technology x Food Sustainability 

The sustainable urban fish farming inside a container located in the heartlands neighbourhood of Singapore strikes a chord in me, bringing the topics that I have an interest in together, on one of my favourite topics – food, followed by the topic of sustainability and how technology can play key roles in both food production and sustainability sectors. 

While urban fish farming isn’t new, urban fish farming inside a container placed in our neighbourhoods, is not only unique and refreshing, this idea might work well for our land scarce Singapore, as we strive towards “30 by 30” goal to build up Singapore agriculture and food industry capability and capacity to sustainably produce 30% of our nutritional needs by 2030.  

I hope this urban fish farming in a container can be further expanded into other HDB heartlands, not only boosting Singapore’s food sustainability goals, it’s educational as well and can help push the topic of sustainability (and its wide scope) further and closer to the people. 

Last but not least, I would really like to try this farm-to-table freshly cooked fish from the urban container fish farming. Looks like a trip to Tampines Round Market and Food Centre is on the cards. 

* Information courtesy of Tampines Town Council and Gloo *

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tThese tickets will allow passengers to explore various destinations across Asia and receive surprise gifts fro Vietjet at an altitude of 10,000m above sea-level. This promotion is applicable to all of Vietjet’s domestic and international flights, including Singapore – Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi and Da Nang routes, for travel schedule from 9th October 2023 to 31st October 2024 (excluding public holidays, peak seasons).

For Singaporeans who love travelling to Vietnam, a highlight of this promotion for Singaporeans is that you are able to book affordable air tickets and explore the breathtaking sceneries of countries such as Vietnam, Australia, India, South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and more.

On a separate note, passengers flying with Vietjet from 12th to 22nd September 2023, stand a chance to participate in the meaningful “Welcome Mid-Autumn, Spread Love” – a programme that donates all proceeds earned from mooncakes sold in Vietjet flights, to underprivileged children. Together with Vietjet, passengers can play their part to spread the warmth and loving spirit of the Mid- Autumn Festival, by contributing meaningful gifts to these children for their new school year.

Hope to visit Vietnam again!

My last trip to Vietnam was in March 2018, to Hoi An and Da Nang, I hope to visit Vietnam again soon as world travel and tourism are getting back in force since the global pandemic situation. The regions/destinations that I am planning to visit in Vietnam are Hanoi, Hue, Sapa and Mt Fansipan! I hope to fulfil and visit my Vietnam travel wanderlust destinations in the near future! Time to relaunch my travel photography, visual storytelling and travel writing!

* Information and pictures courtesy of Vietjet Air and Rothman & Roman *

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Gaggenau x Chef Stephan Zoisl

Gaggenau has partnered with Chef Stephan Zoisl since he started his journey of gastronomic innovation by setting up his own restaurant in Singapore with an impeccably furnished kitchen with professionally-inspired appliances that were vital to bring Chef Zoisl culinary creations to life. 

Gaggenau’s commitment to high precision craftsmanship and unwavering quality has seamlessly aligned with Chef Stephan’s relentless pursuit of culinary excellence over the past decade.

Celebrating a decade of close brand partnership 

To commemorate Gaggenau and Chef Zoisl successful brand alliance, Gaggenau is delighted to present an exclusive two-day event taking place off 27th and 28th July 2023. During this event, aspiring new foodies/users will have the opportunity to witness first-hand, the professionally inspired design and culinary performance that define luxury brand Gaggenau.  

This event is rare and exceptional, they cater to the desires of today’s consumers who aspire to bring a piece of Gaggenau’s 340 year old history into their own living spaces, while experiencing the exceptional capabilities of Gaggenau appliances with a professional guide. Guests will be treated to unique culinary creations, prepared using Gaggenau appliances.

Mr Martin A Jaeger, Head of ASEAN and CEO, BSH Home Appliances Group, said, ‘Gaggenau manufactures kitchen appliances synonymous with exclusive culinary culture and is committed to supporting artisans who are striving for excellence in their field. We are heartened to celebrate a decade of partnership with Chef Stephan Zoisl and he is truly a visionary that shares our dedication to perfection.”

Stephan Zoisl, Owner of Chef’s Table, said, ‘At Chef’s Table, we use the best seasonal ingredients to bring patrons on culinary journeys that excite the senses. To match the pursuit of excellence, our kitchen needs to have precision equipment of uncompromising quality and longevity. Gaggenau has been instrumental in supporting our journey of gastronomic innovation and I look forward to a continued partnership.’

Chef Stephan also unveiled a special menu comprising his eight favourite dishes crafted at Chef’s Table throughout its history, which will only be available for the month of July and August at the restaurant.

Book a Gaggenau Discovery Tour

Would you like to explore and learn more about Gaggenau high quality home appliances? Would you like to be inspired by harmonious fusion of culinary enjoyment and state-of-the-art appliance innovation? As Gaggenau and Chef Stephan Zoisl celebrate a decade of close brand partnership, book a Gaggenau Discovery Tour and discover more about Gaggenau, and how they can inspire and help you to a new level of cuisine cooking experience. 

Book a Gaggenau Discovery Tour here: http://bit.ly/3rH1B4c

* Information and pictures courtesy of Gaggenau and Gloo *

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January 2023 started on a pretty hectic pace with Lunar New Year just 3 weeks from New Year and 4 weeks from Christmas 2022 and my birthday falling on the 2nd week of January 2023 (I kind of took a week’s break unknowingly from publishing work). Now is the time to kickstart FY2023 on a proper and formal basis.

Photography business side of things

On the photography business side of things, I have to take on pretty much everything on my own, the amount of weight, stress and pressure on my shoulders can’t be seen.

Getting new business/projects/assignments

• from my professional and social networks
• working together with PR agencies, photography agencies

Photo walks planning

I have been working and discussing on photo walks routes in Q4 2022. Finalising my notes, photos, route plans and discussions for final discussion and confirmation before going live. Let’s see where this collaboration brings me.

Discussions/Chats 

I have a small group of photographers, filmmakers and creatives that I worked with over the years.  Whenever a project idea springs up in my mind, I would ask them if they are keen to collaborate with me.

For FY2023, I am looking to expand my discussions/chats on further collaborations, such as collaborating with film photography groups (and returning back to film photography).

Time to Back Up

Time to back up photographs and videos

I do regular backup of my photographs and videos that I took, usually every quarter. For Q3 and Q4 2022, I have yet to back up and I am going to start on this. I have my usual workflow, export into respective categorised folders before transferring them into my portable HDD and personal cloud drive.

Curation of photographs 

TGH Photography Portfolio https://www.tghphotography.com – It’s time for another curation of my photography portfolio website, it’s not just about adding new photographs, showcasing new works, there might also be culling and removal of older portfolio photographs, giving it a refresh as well. 

Next up would be uploading another round of curated photographs into my Flickr collection – https://www.flickr.com/photos/tangenghui. This allows me to showcase more different types of photography genres that I shot, that might not necessarily be classified as portfolio.

Writing, Publishing and Printing

Book / Zine ideas 

After publishing and launching my TGH Photography Therapy Zine and Playbook, I have more book / zine ideas and plans for 2023, they are a mix of personal works and possible commercial works. I would share more details in another upcoming article.

Visual Storytelling Topics

Continuing on from where I left off from last year, I am back to covering and writing on special theme topics or those of my personal documentation interests. Some of the topics that I wanted to work on are Dover Forest, new playgrounds versus old playgrounds.

I am also interested and planning to collaboration with creatives/artists from other genres/fields, through Interviews/cross interdisciplinary works and commissioned work if the opportunity arises.

Producing videos for content creation, as well as, producing short video stories/vlogs are on the cards as well. This would definitely take more time, effort and planning. I can probably start with producing Instagram Reels from my current collection of photos and videos.

Review articles 

I am currently working on the Canon EOS R10 review article. Once that is completed, I would then be able to plan and take on other cameras related reviews.

Photography related Articles 

I am expanding my articles writing scope in my photography segment, some areas of interest that I am working on are smartphone photography related and impacts of AI on photography. Stay tuned on these new photography interest topics!

Media news coverage 

I cover and publish photography and camera related media news coverage, along with news from travel, tourism and hospitality industries. 

Travel 

It’s been a few years since I last traveled out for a holiday, the global pandemic situation in the past 3 years doesn’t help as well. I hope to resume my travel photography adventures and travel story writing again soon, on both personal and professional/commissioned work basis. 

Keeping my fingers crossed for any opportunities that might pop up on my radar. 

On another note, I have a travel writing project that I am going to revive, part of my long term travel story and travel photography project. 

List of things to work on (Technology | Business | Personal)

It’s more than just my list of things to work on listed above, I also have my TGH Technology and Business portal/blog to manage and work on. Just like this article post, I also have a list of things to work on (technology | business | personal) after my CNY 2023 festive break. 

Working in phases/small steps

On top of finding new business/assignments/projects, I have my content creation and writing to handle as well. I am going to start working in phases/small steps, clearing and finishing my things to do and goals.

I shared quite a bit of updates and things to do here for my photography and travel segments. Sometimes I wonder how many people (whether you are in PR, agencies, from the brands or my friends) would read my article and what I shared, in a social media world filled with videos on TikTok, YouTube and Instagram Reels, as well as populated with photos on other social media platforms and chat apps? 

The post List of things to work on (Photography and Travel) – 30th Jan 2023 appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

   Photography by Isaac Ong

Inspired by Fernando Gros “How to choose a Yearly Theme”, this is my 4th year writing and announcing a Yearly Theme, an approach that I personally feel that it’s more forward looking for a new future, a new era of working, thinking and how we connect as an individual, as a collective, society and the world. It’s not that goal settings or setting resolutions are no longer popular or useful, they still have a purpose and it still works for some people or industries

Recap of previous Yearly Themes

Before I announce my Yearly Theme 2023 for my photography and travel, let me bring you back  into my previous Yearly Themes through a recap below:

• Year 2020: Striving to Excel
• Year 2021: Recovery and Rejuvenation 
• Year 2022: Onward

Yearly Theme 2023 (Photography and Travel) – “Explore”

Now let me introduce and announce my Yearly Theme 2023 for photography and travel – “Explore”.

Why “Explore”? 

The word “Explore” has always been part of my life, from my Scouting days in school, to my traveler explorer days, in both my professional/business and personal life. My photography themes/projects have always been on exploration, in both nature, wildlife, history, heritage and cultural areas. 

Photography 

In year 2023, I am going to explore new collaborations in both professional and personal capacities. 

On the photography business sector, there would be changes and approaches to my portfolio of services or specialisation.

On my personal photography segment, there are a lot more plans, ideas, collaborations and new collaborations that I more than want to explore, the personal side of photography keeps my passion and fire burning in a commercial photography, content creation world.

If there is something deep inside me that I want to do, they would be along the lines of 

• Back to basics, back to analogue 
• Honing my craft and eye for creativity 
• Collaborating with like-minded creatives for new projects  

Some sectors that I would like to explore further are photography training/educator and consultancy. I made some progress and headways in the two sectors, I am going to continue building up from there. 

Travel

I made a decision not to travel out during 2022 when borders reopened along with the lifting of risk management measures, even though my travel wanderlust was strong. In 2023, I am planning to re-explore my travel photography and travel writing again, after a 3 years hiatus due to the global pandemic situation.

I hope to explore new travel destinations (ASEAN, Japan, Europe) that I haven’t previously visited. Of course, I would still love to revisit some of my favourite travel destinations. I am also planning to explore the area on Sustainability further and wider in travel, tourism, hospitality industries, around the region before venturing further out.

Writing and Publishing Books and Zines

One of my new philosophy in photography, writing and creativity is “Bringing my projects to life”, into prints, zines or books. In a heavy social media usage and consumption world where everything is digital, maybe a return to analogue or old school, can spark us a revival in how we work and live.

Therefore, I am going to explore new personal visual storytelling projects, beyond my current ones. I want to explore further, wider and deeper as a content creator and visual storyteller.

Should I go for a photo book or a new travel visual storytelling project or new zine collection project? Or all of the above? Exploring new publishing projects for year 2023, I would share more in details when the time is ripe.

Complementing my photography training and consultancy, I am going to explore publishing photography guides for the modern creative and social media world.

New set of Uncertainties and Dark Clouds in 2023

In a period of uncertainties and crisis (hopefully it doesn’t reach that stage), there might be new opportunities. Time to explore other opportunities as a new set of dark clouds (challenges and uncertainties) looms over 2023. We are facing inflation, higher costs of living, economic slowdown (or even possibly world recession) and geo-political worldwide crisis in a worst worst case scenario. 

In a period of uncertainties and political crisis in some regions (hopefully it doesn’t escalate beyond that stage into bigger crisis), there might be new opportunities. Time to explore other opportunities as a new set of dark clouds (challenges and uncertainties) looms over 2023.

Yearly Theme 2023 (Technology | Business | Personal)

In this year 2023, I decide to try something different again, I chose two themes, one for my TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog, one for my TGH Technology and Business Portal/Blog. What did I choose for my Yearly Theme 2023 (Technology | Business | Personal)?

Explore with me in my visual storytelling journeys in 2023

I would like to invite you and join me, come explore with me in my visual storytelling journeys in 2023. 

Together we can and we might explore something new, heart warming and touching visual stories.

The post Yearly Theme 2023 (Photography and Travel) appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Launched in October 2022, FZ Digital aims to be at the forefront of a robot enhanced F&B workforce while they strive to be the go-to resource for the best F&B technology solutions in Singapore. FZ Digital have partnered with CloudMinds and POSBANK to launch Singapore’s first F&B robotics and smart kiosks, pushing innovation and alleviate Singapore’s F&B labour crisis.

In this partnership, there are 2 AI robots, the Cloud Ginger Lite D Series and smart kiosks that were launched during FHA-HoReCa that took place from 25th to 28th October 2022, as part of the timely solution to address labour woes in the F&B industry and help F&B SMEs to maximise productivity and revenue, while allowing them to provide better customer service experience.

Implementing robotics in F&B establishments is estimated to save between 30%-70% on labour costs for restaurants, with many coming out of prototype phase and able to perform most, if not all of the tasks humans can (1). This will significantly reduce both dependency on human labour and labour costs. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Robots is a fast growing industry projected to be worth USD$4.3 billion globally by 2030 (2).

“The introduction of robotics into F&B is a much-needed step especially in recent times to push innovation and alleviating the many woes of the F&B industry. Manpower issues and labour shortages have become rampant in Singapore and worldwide, with the recovery of many restaurants and F&B outlets from the pandemic dampened by a stark struggle to hire staff. Many who left the country when borders shut have decided to not return, resulting in severe shortage and, consequently, higher costs to obtain and retain labour,” said Chris Tarr, Chief Product Officer of FZ Digital.

FZ Digital: Automating The Future

FZ Digital is automating the future for Singapore’s F&B industry, some might ask who are they, what’s their history? Here is their story:

1DERLIFE Growth, an acquisition company based in Singapore led by principal, Gregory Lee, acquired FoodZaps, a POS software company founded in 2014 with 200 F&B customers in Singapore and 300 in Malaysia. It then launched FoodZaps as FZ Digital, a hardware and software integrated solutions company for the F&B industry. Lee has long believed that manpower challenges for SMEs in Singapore will be one of the greatest challenges and as a result, software and robotics automation solutions market will grow rapidly. 1DERLIFE Growth has plans for additional acquisitions to build scale in the F&B solutions sector.  

Forming a new management team for FZ Digital, bringing together Chelsea Chan, previously FoodZap’s co-founder and 8-year industry leader, as Managing Director, and Chris Tarr, a veteran of software and mobile services industry and former executive of Samsung Electronics, as Chief Product Officer. FZ Digital seeks to streamline and revolutionize the way the F&B industry works.

Chris Tarr is a veteran leader of new business and product innovation, with over 15 years of experience at Samsung, who has recently joined FZ Digital as its Chief Product Officer. As Regional Head of Mobile Services and Partnerships at Samsung, Chris brings extensive experience innovating and launching new mobile services across Southeast Asia. He holds an MBA from INSEAD and spent his early career as a senior software architect in numerous startups after graduating from MIT.

Launch of Singapore’s first F&B robotics and smart kiosks

The 2 robotic stock-keeping units (SKUs) that will be officially launched during FHA-HoReCa are the D300 Circular Tray and D311 Square Cabinets automated food delivery robots. Both are equipped with an integrated auto navigation and obstacle system to run stably in complex situations. 

The robots used clever localisations and navigation based on 3D semantic map and multiple sensors, they have the ability to perceive their 3D environment to deliver food to diners quickly and safely. 

The installation is straightforward and takes places across three phases, namely:

1. Syncing the AI platform (the robots) to AI machine learning, programmed with modules to make the robots the first cloud-based robot solution
2. Digitally mapping and mirroring the real-time and virtual environment to the prototype to develop, test and train the robots on how to manoeuvre themselves
3. Installing and plugging the robots into actual physical environment to run

Based on the cloud communication and algorithm architecture, rapid decision-making and intelligent scheduling is carried out according to the urgency of the task to ensure the orderly operation of multiple robots. By interconnecting with other Internet of Things (IoT) devices such as elevators, access control, turnstiles, and telephones,  Ginger Lite can provide accurate delivery services autonomously.

FZ Digital Partnership with CloudMinds and POSBANK

FZ Digital has a partnership with CloudMinds and POSBANK, who are they? 

CloudMinds

They are the world’s first operator of cloud intelligent robots and has been committed to the implementation of artificial intelligence technology using robots and all types of smart devices. 

Utilizing the leading cloud intelligent robot solution, CloudMinds has built a smart cloud platform based on HARIX architecture and will offer a variety of services including smart building, smart security, smart property management, and more. 

CloudMinds’ full range of intelligent robots may be deployable in many scenarios such as hospitality, reception, security, patrol, or even as a smart doorman. Therefore, FZ Digital has partnered with CloudMinds to provide robot services to Singapore F&B SMEs. 

POSBANK

They are the number one point of sale (POS) and self-service kiosk manufacturing company in Korea and has one of the lowest error rates in the marketplace at 0.5%. 

It is also the global leading provider of point of sale (POS) with more than 200 partners in 80 countries worldwide. It continually pushes the boundaries of industry standards with sophisticated design and high-performance products to solve industry needs.

F&B owners in Singapore – Check out FZ Digital

If you are F&B business owner in Singapore, do check out FZ Digital, their AI robots and smart kiosks. Labour is always a big headache and challenge for F&B businesses, implementing technology in areas such as AI robots and smart kiosks might be of great assistance and improvements to your F&B businesses. 

* Information and pictures courtesy of FZ Digital and Brand Cellar *

Notes:

(1) Aaron Allen & Assocites – https://aaronallen.com/blog/restaurant-robotics 

(2) Precedence Research – https://www.precedenceresearch.com/artificial-intelligence-robots-market 

The post FZ Digital introduce automation and robotics technology to Singapore F&B industry appeared first on TGH Photography and Travel Portal/Blog.

Photography 

Business 

Economic situation is still challenging, no doubt some had it better than others. That’s how running a business is like, the competition, not everyone is on the same level or pace. It had always been tough and difficult, it had got even harder over the past few years and the global pandemic situation threw in extra weight into it.

From previously diversifying back into certain photography genres, I would relook again, and make the strategic changes if necessary. 

Social Media Marketing 

At the start of the year 2022, social media marketing had moved up as part of business services provision along with my photography services. I had good hopes for this segment as I started off doing social media marketing for a food business. However, things didn’t go to plan, I would have to continue rebuilding up this services again. 

Training & Consultancy 

A growing photography business segment, that would an area that I would look into more in-depth, beyond training & consultancy for photography for corporate side of things, I can look into photography education/training for learners too.

Personal

A constant reminder to myself that not everything about my photography is about commercial work, I have to remind myself of my own personal photography projects.

I need to finish up with the tweaking and editing of my second photography zine, thereafter I can discuss with my local printer to get it published. During Q2 2022, I met with some delays, procrastination (again), time management issues, it’s high time for me to get it completed. 

As for personal projects, I would keep you all posted on my website! It’s time to finish up documenting and photographing some districts in Singapore, they would be changes to their physical landscapes and surroundings. 

Travel 

An area whereby I didn’t put much expectations and goals at the start of the year, that wasn’t any disappointments that I didn’t fulfil any of my travel goals. I had been observing and following the travel and tourism industry changes over H1 2022, they are moving forward, from both demand and supply side of things. It would still take time to ramp up as the world starts to fully restart travel and tourism, I am running an ongoing Special Theme Q2 2022 – Fully Restarting Tourism, sharing travel and tourism stories and happenings taking place around the world.

On a personal note, I am keeping my fingers crossed that I am able to go for a short personal travel holiday in Q3 2022 (if not Q4 2022) whereby airfares and the levels of the travel and tourism industry are back to a more normalised level. 

From a travel writing/photography/content creator perspective, not many opportunities in this segment, I have to continue networking with different sectors of the travel and tourism industry, maybe opportunity would arise in the near future.   

Please be kind, Please do not Judge!

The world is getting more difficult to live and work in, we are not helped by the world economic situation as well as our social media driven and instant gratification glamorous lifestyle. The world needs more kind and understanding citizens, less judgemental people. 

Please be kind, Please do not Judge! A reminder to myself too.

What’s next for Q3 2022 and H2 2022?

Just when we were working towards exiting a global pandemic situation that had caused so much disruptions to our economy and daily living from 2020 to 2022, the world entered into another crisis situation, the world is facing high inflation, ongoing conflict situation in Europe, a recession is looming above us, throw in possible stagflation too. Not to forget that we are not officially out of this global pandemic situation. 

From a set of uncertainties to another different set of uncertainties, we have to be fluid and nimble that we can adapt should the need arises. While I am restricting and pivoting my photography business into a balanced mix of photography and content creation/social media marketing, I have to be nimble, be ready for changes and opportunities that might pop up.

What’s next for Q3 2022 and H2 2022? Let’s see where this journey brings me in the next quarter and 2nd half of 2022. Do check out my Reflecting H1 & Q2 2022 (Other Business, Technology and Personal) article as well!

Anyway, in this era of instant gratification of showing off photos and videos, who still reads?

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