Sus Ads Video Challenge Awards 2021 - Youths Raise Awareness For Environmental Sustainability

Twelve youths who demonstrated exceptional creativity in raising awareness for environmental sustainability clinched awards at the 2021 Sus Ads Video Challenge Awards Ceremony last week. Judged on their content, originality, creativity and technical execution, a total of eight awards were given out at the Awards Ceremony graced by Mr Tan Kiat How, REACH Chairman and Minister of State for Communications and Information & National Development, and Mr Desmond Tan, Minister of State for Home Affairs & Sustainability and the Environment.

Organised by REACH in collaboration with MM2 Entertainment and AsiaOne, the inaugural Sus Ads Video Challenge called upon youths to create an original short video (60 seconds or less) on what they currently do or can do to support sustainability, to encourage others to take action. The Challenge saw a total of 80 entries from 63 individuals and 17 teams, which centred on water and food security, and illustrated how simple lifestyle changes can make a difference in saving the planet.

The awards ceremony also saw a dialogue session providing an opportunity for youths to share their views on sustainability issues. Panellists include REACH Chairman and Minister of State Tan Kiat How; Minister of State Desmond

Tan; filmmaker and actor-host Annette Lee; and environmentalist and digital creator Woo Qiyun. The discussion expounded on Singapore’s sustainability efforts as part of the Singapore Green Plan 2030, and how youths can play a larger role in the sustainability movement.

About The Winners

Amongst the winners in the Student Category is Livia Fin, an illustration design and animation student from the Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts. Coming in first place, she used 3D modelling and animation to showcase how seemingly harmless daily activities can contribute to carbon emissions. Titled ‘Consumption and Climate Change’, her video calls upon Singaporeans to practise mindful consumption habits.

"I have seen Public Service Announcements on how one can help stop climate change. While these are important, there are just so many of these out there that can be difficult to keep track of. The video I made is similar, but I want to emphasise the importance of doing it as a team because just an individual alone cannot change the world."

--- Livia Fin ---

In the same category, Temasek Polytechnic student Muhammad Danish Fikri Bin Mohamed Fadil’s “Save Water, Save Money” won the hearts of the audience. The 60-second video, which combined elements of horror and humour, highlighted how the simple act of turning off the tap can help to save water.

"I was inspired by a television advertisement which conveyed the message of saving water in a creative way. Through my video, I hope to bring across the message that everyone has to play a part in being sustainable. There is no need to buy certain items to be sustainable. Instead, we can reflect on our daily habits and incorporate simple actions to save resources."

--- Muhammad Danish Fikri Bin Mohamed Fadil ---

In the Open Category, youths tackled a wide range of sustainability issues, including energy conservation, waste reduction and recycling. “Pass Me Forward” imagines a letter from a dress to illustrate how fashion can be sustainable, while “Learning Sustainability with Nasir” shows how our sustainable habits can help save the environment.

"I think it is great that Singapore has been pushing forward its sustainability efforts and appreciate that they are listening to youths and the public for ideas on how to move forward with these efforts. Not only that, it is heartening that the Singapore Green Plan 2030 helps provide actionable steps to combat climate change, not only for individuals but also for corporations."

--- Tan Jing Ren, “The Interview”, Open Category, 2nd place winner ---

However, it was Leo Ching Ling’s “Sound of Sustainability” that won first place in the Open Category. In a creative take on sustainability, the 20-year-old Ngee Ann Polytechnic graduate used sound with aesthetically pleasing visuals to demonstrate the simple actions one can take to protect the earth.

"Singapore is making commendable efforts by using resources to raise awareness and encourage people to contribute to a greener city. I am grateful for platforms such as the Sus Ads Video Challenge where one can showcase creativity and establish a meaningful point, too."

--- Leo Ching Ling ---

"We are impressed by the youths’ effort and creativity in producing these videos... I am heartened to see that many young Singaporeans are aware of the responsibility they each have in protecting the environment. By showcasing innovative yet pragmatic ways to make sustainability part of their daily lives, our youths have displayed a sense of ownership towards creating a greener and more sustainable Singapore. I hope that they will continue to champion sustainability in their communities."

--- Tan Kiat How, REACH Chairman, one of the Challenge panel judges ---

The videos from all eight winners will be aired at Cathay Cineplexes island wide. They can also be found online at www.asiaone.com/susads.

(Photo Credits for all images : REACH, Ministry of Communications and Information)

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The Liveability Challenge 2020 - The Need For Innovation

A new, global call for game-changing solutions to grow food, package products, and reduce carbon emissions in cities located in the world’s tropical belt was launched in Singapore today. The best proposals stand a chance of securing the grand prize of up to S$1 million in funding, as well as other resources and opportunities to further develop their solutions.

The launch marks the start of The Liveability Challenge, presented by Temasek Foundation, organised by Eco-Business, and convened by Closed Loop Partners, in partnership with Ecosperity Week 2020.

The third edition of the Challenge is inviting project proposals in the areas of Urban Food Production,

Circular Packaging and Decarbonisation, where the critical need for innovation reflects the size of the

business opportunity available. Proposals are welcome from 14 January to 17 April 2020 and can be submitted via the official website of The Liveability Challenge (www.theliveabilitychallenge.org).

The chosen themes support the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals 2 (Zero Hunger), 9

(Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure), 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), and 13 (Climate Action).

"Global hunger is on the rise; and the past four years have been the hottest on record, with carbon dioxide concentration levels continuing to rise. We hope The Liveability Challenge 2020 will highlight the valuable opportunities present in these areas of need and catalyse impactful solutions that can accelerate the transition to a more food secure, resource-efficient and decarbonised future."

--- Lim Hock Chuan, Chief Executive, Temasek Foundation Ecosperity ---

Selected finalists will get a chance to pitch their projects to a panel of Asia’s most sought-after venture capitalists and investors during Ecosperity Week on 08 July 2020 at The Liveability Challenge Grand Finale. Winners of the Challenge could secure over S$1 million in opportunities such as funding, exclusive spots in incubator programmes, and mentorship opportunities. The grand prize winner could secure up to S$1 million in grant funding from Temasek Foundation to further development and launch a pilot project in Singapore. 

Selections from past year winners and their products...

"The Liveability Challenge has grown to become a highlight for Asia’s sustainability community, and is now fast expanding to folks in the science and technology space. As businesses and governments continue to work on societal solutions around climate change, we welcome participation from potential partners, especially from the food, packaging and energy sectors to join us in supporting this year’s challenge."

--- Junice Yeo, Deputy Managing Director of Eco-Business ---

"There is growing momentum to adopt sustainable practices and innovations to build a more liveable environment. With the support of our partners, The Liveability Challenge has attracted many applicants with high-quality proposals leveraging science to exploit potential business opportunities. As a champion of sustainability and liveability, Temasek Foundation has provided support to the winner of last year’s Challenge, Sophie’s Kitchen, to develop its plant-based protein that can be produced in a more economically viable, urban setting."

--- Lim Hock Chuan, Chief Executive, Temasek Foundation Ecosperity ---

Through The Liveability Challenge and other channels, Temasek Foundation seeks to bring together an ecosystem of innovators, funders, investors, platform providers and professionals, and excite them to source, catalyse and advance impactful solutions towards eventual successful commercialisation, as a first step to making a positive difference to the everyday lives of city dwellers in Singapore and beyond.

For more information, visit The Liveability Challenge website at www.theliveabilitychallenge.org. 

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Maybank Global Corporate Responsibility Day

Last Saturday (August 24), Maybank held its Global Corporate Responsibility (CR) Day, raising funds for charity and doing its part to volunteer for the Singapore community. For the first time, 180 social service users were invited to join in Maybank’s Family Day at Universal Studios Singapore (USS) in conjunction with the annual Maybank Global CR Day, where they were treated to a day of fun at a seaside carnival at Sentosa and a fundraising Charity Walk.

Booths at the Carnival include those from Maybank's charity partners and  environmental groups like WWF...

Inspire Good SG is a Maybank initiative to inspire Singaporeans to do more good and pass it on...

Fun galore at the games stalls...

Maybank’s cheque presentation to President’s Challenge 2019 on 24 August 2019...

(Photo Credit : Maybank)

More than 2,000 Maybank staff and their family and friends took part in the Charity Walk from Sentosa Palawan Green to USS to raise funds. In addition, staff, clients and corporate partners of the bank made generous outright donations as well as bid for limited edition Manchester United Football Club memorabilia. The total donations raised were over S$500,000 in support of the President’s Challenge 2019. Through Community Chest, the funds will be channelled to support Maybank’s charity partners: Lions Befrienders, Montfort Care, Institute of Mental Health (IMH) and MINDS.

The festivities of at Palawan Green before the start of the Charity Walk...

Flag off of the Charity Walk at Sentosa Palawan Green, over 2,000 participants walked to Universal Studios Singapore...

(Photo Credit : Maybank)

Universal Studios Singapore Welcomes Maybank...

A Maybank staff volunteer bringing a Lions Befriender social service user to tour around Universal Studios Singapore...

(Photo Credit : Maybank)

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Entwine - Maybank Women Eco-Weavers Meet South-East Asian Artists

Merlion Wayfarer was recently at  a travelling exhibition presented by Maybank Foundation on contemporary artworks by six established South East Asian artists who were inspired by the cultural history and art of the region’s weaving heritage. Displayed at the National Museum of Singapore concourse, the exhibition was curated by Singapore’s Chan + Hori Contemporary and will run from 21 August 21 to 08 September 2019.

The Maybank Women Eco-Weavers is an economic empowerment programme designed to support traditional weaving practices in a sustainable manner whilst creating economic independence and financial inclusion for women weavers across the ASEAN region. The programme showcases the bank's role towards a more inclusive ASEAN, by strengthening women’s empowerment and gender equality in the region to support the ASEAN Community Vision 2025.

Traditional textile weaving is an ancient art form and today, it provides a source of income for a diminishing number of women weavers regionally. Through the exhibition entitled “Entwine: Maybank Women Eco-Weavers meet Southeast Asian Artists”, the public will have a glimpse into the livelihood and artistic talents of traditional weavers living in rural parts of Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos and Malaysia, who have been supported by the Maybank Women Eco-Weavers programme.

The textiles from different countries vary in their use of the patterns and the material used...

Mr. Shahril Azuar Jimin, CEO of Maybank Foundation, said, “Since 2016, the Maybank Women Eco-Weavers programme has partnered local social enterprises and NGOs to provide an ecosystem for the sustained development of weaving crafts and environmentally-friendly production practices within the region. Six contemporary artists visited our weavers in their natural environment and responded to their experiences after meeting artisans of different weaving communities, and hence, we put together this exhibition to showcase the art creations alongside naturally-dyed and handwoven fabrics from the eco-weavers, in celebration of ASEAN’s arts and culture.”

Artists and Curator’s Profiles

Curator: Khairuddin Hori

Khairuddin Hori (b. 1974, Singapore) is best known for his multidisciplinary and unconventional approach to curating, supported by his experience in theatre and work as an artist. Khai’s profile was placed on spotlight in 2014 after he was invited onboard Europe’s largest and internationally renowned art center, Palais de Tokyo in Paris, France as its Deputy Director of Artistic Programming. Prior to that, Khai was Senior Curator at the Singapore Art Museum, overseeing Singapore’s national collection for contemporary art, and Senior Curator at the Curatorial Development department of the National Heritage Board, Singapore. In 2018, in partnership with the National Arts Council, Singapore Khai was commissioned to curate DISINI a new visual arts festival featuring outdoor sculptures, public programmes and exhibitions, He was also the curator behind LOCK ROUTE, the first international outdoor sculpture exhibition at visual art precinct, Gillman Barracks in 2017.

Khai explaining the functions of the loom and how it is used for weaving...

In 2016, Khai co-curated In Praise of Shadows, a sustainable light art festival in the Marina Bay precinct; was an international affiliate of “What happens now?”: Public Art Melbourne Biennial Lab (2016) and co-curator of The Light of the Light by Quistrebert brothers. Other notable projects include Tianzhuo Chen, Palais de Tokyo, Paris (2015); Sous la lune, Institute of Contemporary Arts, Singapore (2015); Secret Archipelago, Palais de Tokyo, Paris (2015); Open SEA, Museum of Contemporary Art, Lyon (2015); Welcome to the Jungle, Yokohama Museum of Art and Contemporary Art Museum Kumamoto, Japan (2013); If the World Changed, Singapore Biennale (2013); Lucid Dreams in the Reverie of the Real, Singapore Art Museum, Singapore (2012); and Negotiating Home, History and Nation, Singapore Art Museum, Singapore (2011). Khai is currently Curatorial Director and Partner at Chan + Hori Contemporary in Singapore.

Artist 1: Sheryo

Sheryo (b. 1984, Singapore) is a visual/mural artist who started painting in the streets in 2005. Her art seeks to investigate, analyse and document the human psyche and frustrations towards contemporary lifestyles. She works across mediums, from 2D paintings to 3D sculptures, installations and moving images. Her style, often referencing pulp illustrations and skateboard graphics, comes across as jovial and surreal imagery that speaks to those who grew up admiring 80’s and 90’s skateboarding and surfing culture.

She has exhibited and painted murals around the world with fellow artist, Yok. Select exhibitions include Art from the Streets at the ArtScience Museum in Singapore (2018), Forest for the Trees at Sodo Track Mural Festival in Seattle, U.S.A. (2018) and Double Tigers at Baandam Museum in Chiang Rai, Thailand (2017).

Naga Wheel : This is a re-interpretation of a silk-spinning wheel from the Lao Sericulture weaving centre where Mdm Kommaly shared stories of her legacy with Sheryo...

Artist 2: Sharon Chin

Sharon Chin (b. 1980, Malaysia) works across a variety of media, developing narratives on environmental and political issues on her home country. One of her well-known series, Local Flora, Patterns (2017) is an installation piece based on 25 floral patterns she developed as illustrations for Creatures of Near Kingdoms, a book of short stories by Malaysian writer Zedeck Siew. This work was collected by the Singapore Art Museum.

Sharon is featured in the 2019 Singapore Biennale and participated in the 2013 Singapore Biennale with Mandi Bunga/Flower Bath, where over 100 people gathered to bathe together on the lawn of the National Museum of Singapore, making front page news of The Straits Times. Her works have also been shown at institutions such as the National Art Gallery of Malaysia, Galeri Petronas, Singapore Art Museum and Incheon Culture and Arts Centre, Korea. She has also been on residencies and festivals in Vietnam, Myanmar, Australia, Germany, the United Kingdom and Japan.

Yang Tersirat Dan Tersurat : Following her visit to the Lenek Lauk Village in Lombok, Sharon invited 40 individual women weavers to create 240 woven strips...

The motifs, colours and materials decided by each woman, accompanied by their names and titles which hinted at stories behind their weaving...

Gaps in the hanging arrangement create negative space, which also represents the invisible labour of women...

Artist 3: Lyle Buencamino

Lyle Buencamino (b. 1978, The Philippines) graduated with a Bachelor in Fine Arts majoring in Painting. He is known for his large-scale paintings based on movie stills produced by the now-defunct LVN Productions in the 1950's - what is often referred to as the 'Golden Age' in Filipino cinema. His series, No Fighting in the Museum, began as a reflection on propriety and behaviour in institutions and other similar public spaces.

Lyle has held three solo exhibitions thus far, namely Death of the Last Romantic at Finale Art File (2013); All The Symptoms But Not The Disease at Ateneo Art Gallery (2008) and A Bowtie for John Lyle at Mag:net Gallery (2006). Selected exhibitions include Mutable Truths: Perspectives in Philippine Contemporary Art Practices at the Ateneo Art Gallery in Manila (2017); What does it all matter, as long as the wounds fit the arrows? at the Cultural Center of the Philippines (2014) and No talking points 2 at TAKSU Gallery in Singapore (2013). His latest solo exhibition was presented at Chan + Hori Contemporary in Singapore in 2019.

Escape From/To Kuching : During his visit to the Tanoti Crafts showroom in Kuching, Lyle encountered an ornate songket Sarawak pattern. Through this inspiration, by knotting fabrics together, Lyle imagine an "escape rope" from the scaffolding structure to the ground...

Artist 4: Ubatsat Sutta

Ubatsat Sutta (b. 1980, Thailand) obtained a Master’s Degree in Philosophy and Religion at Chiang Mai University in Thailand in 2007 and is currently reading his PhD in Buddhism at Mahachulalongkorn University in Thailand. He was previously the artist assistant to Thai artist, Rirkrit Tiravanija. In 2017, he participated in an artist residency programme in Rikuzentakata and Paradise Air in Tokyo. His group exhibitions include Food Matters at Karin Weber Gallery, Hong Kong (2018); Articulation Existence at the Baan Tuek Art Center, Chiang Mai, Thailand (2017) and In the Remembrance of the Great King at the Bangkok Art & Culture Centre in Bangkok, Thailand (2017). His solo exhibition, Sox Stars, took place in 2019 at the CMU Art Centre in Chiang Mai, Thailand.

Harry The Train Song : Ubatsat reflects different evolutions of the Royal Railway in this artwork, with colour palettes representing paint jobs of carriages and key stations along the track...

Artist 5: Shahrul Jamili Miskon

Shahrul Jamili Miskon (b. 1978, Malaysia) trained as a ceramicist in Central Academy of Arts, Kuala Lumpur and graduated with a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Surrey Institute of Arts, UK in 2003. He later went on to study at the International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC), International Islamic University, Malaysia, graduating in 2013. Typically found working with materials and approaches such as aluminium, paper, print, sculpture and installation art, Shahrul favours geometric principles as fundamental junctures and philosophical footing in both art and religiosity. His solo exhibition, METALANGUAGE took place at Chan + Hori Contemporary in Singapore in 2017. Other exhibitions include Cannot be Bo(a)rdered at the Urban Art Fair, Paris, France (2017); Pangea at the International Art Biennial, Shah Alam, Malaysia (2016) and New Object(ion) III at Galerie Petronas in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Artist 6: Lugas Syllabus

Lugas Syllabus (b. 1987, Indonesia) is a contemporary artist who lives and works in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. He is widely known for his paintings and sculptures that address the ironies and contradictions in modern and contemporary society. Woven into his pieces are narratives and iconography from pop culture, media and technology; coupled with memories and folklore. The artist completed his undergraduate degree in painting at the Institut Seni Indonesia (ISI) in Yogyakarta. His solo exhibitions include We Dance Together at Chan + Hori Contemporary in Singapore (2018), Tomorrow Must Be Better at Element Art Space, Shanghai, China (2017); Natural Born Worker at Finale Art File in the Philippines (2017) and The Garden of Triumph at Art Stage Singapore (2016). He has participated in artist residencies in Passau, Germany; Brisbane, Australia and Singapore. Awards he has garnered include the Artmajeur Art Award (Silver) in 2009 and the Second Heritage Winner for Portraits of Indonesia at the National Museum of Indonesia. He was featured in the DISINI public art festival at Gillman Barracks, Singapore, by Chan + Hori Contemporary which ran from January to September 2018, and is a participating artist in ArtJog MMXIX, Arts in Common (2019) with a work titled Berbatas tapi Tak Terbatas (Painting set).

(Photo Credit : Maybank)

Curator tours, storytelling for children and weaving demonstrations are available over the next three weekends. All activities are free of charge, and are listed here at www.facebook.com/events/2218040074975525/.

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