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Make a splash at Singapore’s best water parks

Singapore is a smart city: the effect of year-round sunshine is catered for with a huge amount of places and spaces to get soaked at! Whether you’re with family, friends, or flying solo; want to dive in or just dip a little toe; are happy to pay or looking for something more wallet-friendly; grab your swimmers and head here.

Fancy Waterparks For: Adventurous aquatic fun

Left: Aqua Adventure at HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir Right: Wild Wild Wet
  • Aqua Adventure at HomeTeamNS Bedok Reservoir
    At Singapore’s first integrated indoor water park, you can attempt an aquatic challenge rope course, scale climbing walls, and conquer water obstacles. Not forgetting the challenge of the 85m-long Black Hole Slide and duelling Double Trouble Slide. All too much? There’s also a lovely Laze Pool.
     900 Bedok North Road, 479994
     hometeamns.sg
  • Adventure Cove Water park
    From high-speed water slides such as Asia’s first hydro-magnetic coaster, to a gentle lazy river to float away in, plan a whole day here. Besides the park, you can snorkel with over 20,000 tropical fish and wade among rays.
     8 Sentosa Gateway, Sentosa Island, 098269
    rwsentosa.com
  • Wild Wild Wet
    An oldie but a goodie, this somewhat retro water park boasts thrill slides, a lazy river, wave pool and kids pool. Little ones will love the meandering river, and older children can go crazy at Yakult Professor’s Playground complete with slides, ladders, water cannons and fountains. As for adults, gather some grown ups and speed down the four-lane ride ‘Kraken Racers’ to show the young ones how it’s done.
     1 Pasir Ris Close, 519599
    wildwildwet.com
  • Hydro Dash
    Singapore’s very first floating aqua park is where kids and adults can tackle a massive inflatable playground and obstacle course – think a giant bouncy castle in the sea. To keep everyone on their toes, Hydro Dash is split into four zones with varying difficulty levels.
     54 Palawan Beach Walk, 098233
    thepalawansentosa.com/hydrodash
  • Splash @ Kidz Amaze
    Five slides, eight play decks, interconnected climbing structures and big buckets of water ready to topple at any moment cover 23,000 square feet at Splash@Kidz Amaze. For those with tots aged 18 – 36 months, head to the separate wading area where water jets just spray streams at you. Babies under 12 months get free entry.
    SAFRA Punggol, 9 Sentul Crescent, Level 3, 828654
    safra.sg

Sporty Options: Get soaked, learn new skills

Left: Singapore Wake Park Right ANZA Watersports, Ola Beach Club
  • Singapore Wake Park
    While the aim here is to spend more time out of the water than in, getting soaked is all part of it. The park has a built-up lagoon and three cable systems: beginner, intermediate and full-size for adventure-seekers to try wakeskating, double-skis “cable-style”, knee-boarding and wakeboarding. An instructor will brief you about the cable system and safety instructions, then you’ll be directed to the best cable for you. The park caters to all levels from child to adult so it’s fab for a family day out.
    1206A East Coast Parkway,  449891
    singaporewakepark.com
  • Splash N Surf
    This water park perched on top of Kallang Wave Mall has a water play area open only to kids, plus a brilliant lazy pool. What’s extra special about this place is that you can also try a multitude of sporting activities such as riding waves on the Stingray, half-pipe surfing, bodyboarding or skimboarding. Park entry is free but mastering some ‘skillz’ starts from $30 per hour.
    Level 3 Kallang Wave Mall, 397629
    sportshub.com.sg
  • Pasir Ris Swimming Complex
    Slides always go down a storm with both kids and adults and Pasir Ris Swimming Complex is home to two of them. There’s also a training pool, two children’s pools with water features, a competition pool, and a Jacuzzi (which tends to be the go-to for parents!).
     120 Pasir Ris Central, 519640
     facebook.com/pasirrissc
  • ANZA Watersports
    ANZA Nippers has been keeping kids in the water for almost a decade, and last year we launched ANZA Watersports to offer adults the same kind of splashy fun. If Stand Up Paddle Boarding (SUP), kayaking and sailing float your boat, check out more details on our website.
     anza.org.sg/groups/watersports

Adventure Playgrounds: Splish, splash, splosh!

Left: Cluisa Cove Right: Lower Seletar Reservoir Park
  • Cluisa Cove
    This playground is designed with tidal patterns, surface ripples and currents that mimic the water of coastal shores. Little ones can control the water flow using the sluice gates, play in the pools and follow the channels that lead to rock pools.
    Jurong Lake Gardens, 104 Yuan Ching Road, 618661
  • Far East Organisation Children’s Garden
    After a stroll around Gardens by the Bay, let the kids chill out here. The Toddler Play Zone invites tots to scale a swaying bridge and take on the Fish Fountain. This zingy interactive play space also comes with water tunnels and funky fish sculptures. Did we mention it’s free?
    18 Marina Gardens Drive, 018953
    gardensbythebay.com.sg
  • Waterworks, Science Centre
    Mechanical water clocks, mazes, and a giant alarm clock to dry yourself off – this is a brilliant place to play while learning about the importance of water.
    5 Science Centre Road, 609081
    science.edu.sg
  • Coastal PlayGrove
    Rock up here for the tallest outdoor play feature in Singapore (16 metres high) with climbing activities, metallic tube slides, a nature play garden with sandpits and teepees, plus a water play area. Dip into the fun wading pool while the kiddos run riot splashing
    at the fountains. Come evening, the water fountains are illuminated for extra excitement!
    902 East Coast Park Service Road, 449874
    beta.nparks.gov.sg
  • Compass One
    Level four of a suburban shopping centre has never been so thrilling! Kids can beat the heat by running through the water tunnel and zooming down the water slide, while toddlers can keep occupied with calmer water fountains.
    1 Sengkang Square, Level 4, 545078
    compassone.sg

Ice, Ice, Baby: There’s literally nothing cooler

Left: Hyperactiv Singapore Right: Sphere Gym
  • The Ice Bath Clubs
    Yes, this is a club, but not as you know it. This new membership-based ice bath social club features ice baths, a magnesium salt hot bath, and a shared social sauna. There’s also a big group sauna at 80 Deg C. Afterwards, hit the hip cafe for a warm drink!
    241 River Valley Road, #01-01, 238298
    theicebathclubs.com
  • Hyperactiv Singapore
    Wim Hof sessions are guided by a certified instructor who begins with teaching breathwork before you immerse yourself into an ice bath. Sessions vary and include one-on-one, a one-year programme, and corporate options.
    25 Pemimpin Place, 576022
    [email protected]
  • Sphere gym
    Run past the personal fitness on the first floor and head for the sensory deprivation float tanks upstairs. You can choose a “warmer” plunge at 10 – 12 Deg C, or a colder shock of around 5 Deg C. Sphere also has a mega ice tub for up to eight people. The more, the merrier?
    137 Cecil Street, #01-02/03, 069537
    www.sphere365.sg
  • Athletic Collective
    The focus here is on helping athletes perform better at their sport and to recover faster from training.The ice bath generally remains around 5 – 7 Deg C, but can go down to 3 Deg C if you’re feeling hardcore.
    442 Claymore Connect, Orchard Road, #03-01, 238879
    theathleticcollective.com/recovery-room
  • Core Collective
    Core Collective offer a 15-minute cold water therapy session to leave you feeling refreshed and renewed. Whether you’ve just completed an ROI with ANZA Cycling, or are feeling the effects of an ANZA Ladies Night, a session here will sort you righ out!
     Anson and Dempsey locations
    corecollective.sg

The importance of mental health to combat Long Covid

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Did you know that Long Covid patients are more likely to have depression and anxiety compared to others? Additionally, they are more likely to encounter more financial barriers while trying to access therapy.

In this blog by our friends over at Pacific Prime CXA, we’ll discuss the impacts of depression and anxiety in long Covid patients, as well as treatment methods to stay both physically and mentally healthy.

What is Long Covid?

Long Covid refers to COVID-19 effects lasting weeks or months beyond the initial illness. Symptoms can persist, resolve, and reemerge, ranging from mild to severe.

Below are some of the common symptoms:

  • Malaise and fatigue
  • Fever
  • Shortness of breath
  • Coughing
  • Chest pain and heart palpitations
  • Headaches
  • Diarrhea

Depression and Anxiety in Long Covid

Long Covid can directly affect the brain by damaging neurons and glial cells, leading to memory issues, depression, and anxiety. Depression symptoms may include loss of interest in activities, hopelessness, sleep difficulties, low energy, and concentration problems.

Anxiety symptoms can involve constant worries, nervousness, and irritability.

Coping Strategies for Long Covid Symptoms

Because the impact and symptoms of Long Covid can vary across patients, it’s important to tailor your coping strategies to your symptoms.

Below are the different ways to cope with Long Covid symptoms.

  1. Fatigue: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing.
  2. Sleep Difficulties: Improve sleep quality by maintaining a consistent schedule, avoiding alcohol in the evening, and turning off screens before bed.
  3. Depression and Anxiety: Attend cognitive behavioral therapy sessions, meditate, do yoga, or stay connected with friends and family.

Benefits of Mental Health Insurance

Mental health insurance provides essential benefits as part of comprehensive healthcare coverage, offering valuable support for individuals seeking psychological and psychiatric care.

The key advantages include:

  • Financial Relief: Covers a significant portion of treatment costs.
  • Expanded Provider Access: Offers networks of licensed mental health professionals.
  • Preventive Care: Covers routine mental health screenings.
  • Comprehensive Coverage: Includes treatment for various mental health conditions.

Conclusion

Given the potential mental health impacts of Long Covid, it’s crucial to have adequate health insurance coverage.

As a global insurance broker, Pacific Prime CXA has helped match both expats in Singapore and local Singaporeans to an international health insurance plan that suits both their unique healthcare needs and budget range.

Contact them if you have any further questions, or get a free quote here.

ANZA Tennis Clinics Starting 21 August

ANZA Tennis Clinics

The ANZA Tennis Clinics are a 6-week programme designed for newcomers wanting to learn the basic skills of tennis, or for players wanting to refresh their technique. Savitar Tennis Centre’s skilled team of tennis coaches will cover all the fundamentals of tennis including forehand, backhand, volley, serve, overhead, and basic match play. Emphasis will be on enjoyment of the game and players will receive an excellent foundation to improve and develop.

Cost: $210
When: Wednesdays
Start Date: 21 August
Time: 11am – 12pm
Where: Savitar Tennis Centre, Fairmont Hotel, Raffles City
What to bring: Tennis racquet, towel, plenty of water

Make-up sessions: if sessions are canceled due to inclement weather make up sessions will be in 30min blocks added to subsequent sessions ie: two sessions of 1.5 hours.

Please join the WhatsApp group so we can update you of any changes to the sessions due to weather etc… The link will be provided on your confirmation notice after you have completed registration.

Useful location info: To get to the Savitar Tennis Centre, take the lift to the 8th floor of the Fairmont Hotel and walk through the spa to the swimming pool. The courts are accessed via a walkway behind the pool. The Savitar Tennis Centre is situated directly above the Raffles City Shopping Centre and lots of parking is available below.  The City Hall MRT is nearby.

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ANZA Cricket: Get set for an exciting season!

The ANZA team with Australian cricket player Nathan Hauritz

The start of the cricket season 2024 – 2025 is finally back in full swing after a slight delay to June. As expected, the schedule started filling up quickly once it was out and with some 50+ games already under our belts, we’re excited for more to come! In just a few weeks we can see that we’ve got a fun-filled season ahead of us with plenty of games to come and lots of opportunities for playing and practicing for all of our participating teams. As always, we’re happy to welcome new players, so if cricket’s your thing head to the ANZA website to join us.

Here’s Us!

SSC and the ANZA Cricket team

ANZA Bushrangers: T30 League

Who we are: Our Gun team with two former 1st division players and loads of talent.
What we do: We’re looking to ace this season and move up the divisional ladder. If you’re serious about your cricket, this is for you. Our first game takes place on 21 July so don’t delay if you’d like to sign up!

ANZA Diggers: T30 League

Who we are: This is a great bunch of blokes and a real mix. Expect good players, some oldies and a few specialist bar owners. The banter is spot on!
What we do: While this team could be described as dysfunctional, they do really well! They like to play fair but are not as serious as Bushies.

ANZA Champs: BPL T25 League

Who we are: Being a separate competition, we mix Bushies and Diggers for this league. The BPL will be hard and fast, but also a lot of fun.
What we do: We may not win this but we will give all players a fair-go. We always aim to push the opposition as far as we can.

ANZA Dream Team

Who we are: Our social side for those who don’t want to play league and those who just want more cricket – think a few dads and sons, and people who haven’t played the game for 10+ years. We may not be pros but we all participate.
What we do: Matches are against like-minded social teams, are a lot of fun, and involve a few beers at the end. Games tend to take place on Friday afternoons and weekends, and occasionally we have away matches at Marlborough College Malaysia in Johor Bahru or places such as Phuket, Vietnam and Bangkok.

Michael Ulhman gets his lady!

From left: Michael recieving his trophy from David Vu. At the ground

A “Michelle” for the man we call “Magnet”. Not sure how his wife feels, but we were happy to see him get a “Five Fa” of oldies in the Masters League. (If you’re not sure what that is, please ask your nearest friendly cricketer!).

NETs stuff to know

NETs kick off each Wednesday at The Cage Sports Park, Dempsey, from 7pm. We assemble 5 – 10 people through our WhatsApp chat to roll the arm over. It’s not a problem if you don’t want to play games, don’t have equipment, and/or just want to do NETs. They are social NETs for all abilities.

Register for ANZA Cricket here

Thank you to our Sponsors

 

Understand your hip pain

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Hip impingement is common, the underlying condition itself is not new but how it is treated has changed significantly over the last 15 years. The full name of the condition is femoroacetabular impingement (FAI). It is a mechanical problem that damages important soft tissues inside the hip joint, affecting the hip joint and causing pain and limitation in movement. Hip impingement is usually caused by asymmetry of the ball part of the ball and socket joint, known as a cam deformity. In medical terms, the damaged soft tissue is called the labrum, and damage to the labrum is what generates the pain you feel.

How do I know if I have hip impingement?

It is felt in the form of sharp and severe pain in the front of the hip/groin. Usually deep-seated, discomfort does not move from the front of the hip and can be brought on by specific reproducible movements, for example, deep squats or lunges at the gym. Simple day-to-day activities can also aggravate symptoms, such as getting in and out of the car or climbing stairs two steps at a time. (So, beware!).

“It is felt in the form of intense pain in the front of the hip/groin”

What else causes pain here?

There are many reasons for an intensity around the hip and groin. Similar pain can arise from the muscles and tendons in front of the hip joint, in particular the rectus muscles. Men commonly develop groin hernias which can cause comparable pain brought on by similar activity. Sometimes early wear and tear inside the hip joint (osteoarthritis) can cause problems in this area too.

What can be done?

Most cases of hip impingement can be diagnosed on clinical examination and X-ray. This is usually performed by an orthopedic surgeon with a special interest in hip surgery. To further assess the joint and surrounding tissues, an MRI scan will help quantify the degree of damage to the labrum. The scan also monitors the muscles and tendons around the hip and to a degree the cartilage inside the hip joint.

How can I manage it?

Fortunately, hip impingement is primarily managed with physiotherapy and activity modification. Excellent results can be achieved if the condition is mild or moderate – you do not need surgery just because the scan says you have a labral tear.  It is of paramount importance to make sure the labral tear is actually what’s causing the pain, as while labral tears on MRI scans are common, most are not symptomatic. If the condition is more severe the initial management remains the same, however, sometimes the pain does not resolve and keyhole surgery has positive outcomes in these cases.

Dr Gavin O’Neill is an Orthopaedic Surgeon specialising in hip and knee conditions. He trained in the UK and Australia. If you’re having issues with hip or knee pain contact us at Altius Clinic, Sports and Orthopaedic Surgeons for an appointment. altiusclinic.sg

 

Altius Clinic Sports and Orthopaedic Surgeons

 290 Orchard Road, #09-11/12 Paragon, 238859
 [email protected]
 +65 8500 3961   +65 6970 1518

Hotspots: Tamba

Where are we going?

To West Africa, via Singapore’s Duxton area. Look out for the two-storey terracotta-painted shophouse on Duxton Road with a snazzy white pattern.

Any backstory?

Founded by Kurt Wagner, owner of African-themed Kafe Utu on Jak Chua Road (kafeutu.com), Tamba is a personal journey that not only celebrates Kurt’s early childhood growing up in Liberia, West Africa, but also the life of his adopted brother who died at a young age, after whom Tamba is named. “Tamba was effortlessly warm and generous, and I am proud to have created a space to celebrate his life and culture,” Kurt says.

First impressions?

Wow, this is different! A well-designed restaurant has the power to whisk you to an entirely different place, and Tamba does just that instantly. You enter at street level and become immediately encased in warm terracotta hues and rustic textured walls, something emblematic of West African earth due to the effect of wind on sand. You feel less like you’re ascending a staircase to a restaurant, and more like you’ve entered an magical tunnel into a world of wonder.

What’s the vibe?

Once upstairs, a thick curtain reveals a cross between a cosy family home and a ridiculously stylish film set. With only 25-seats Tamba is intimate and the lighting is dark – very dark. As your eyes adjust, a decorative visual feast serves as an aperitif before the food arrives. Every detail, from the natural elegance of the clay vessels and artefacts to the carved Tuareg-staff door handles, has been meticulously handpicked. Housed within the cool shade of the restaurant’s thatched roof, the focal point is a colourful bar along the far wall. There’s a lovely photograph of Tamba at its edge and it’s one of the first things your eye is drawn to as you enter the restaurant.

From Left: Tamba lobster and sakura chicken, Tamba smoked meat and The Next Pelé

And the food?

Home, food, and a lot of chilli, spices and smoked meats lie at the heart of West African culture, so flavours are punchy and it helps to handle the heat! Each dish is robust, hearty, and in many cases, fiery. Staples include Jollof Rice with smoked pork belly and sakura chicken (savoury and smoky, like a cross between Spanish paella and Creole rice), and the Pepper Soup, a heavily spiced Liberian staple made with all kinds of meat, offal and seafood, with ample heat provided by the use of habanero.

There is a daily selection of smoked meats, seafood and vegetables, such as Australian grain-fed Angus bone-in ribeye served with palava chilli sauce. Desserts include Shuku Shuku featuring cardamom coconut yoghurt, chewy ginger and coconut ice cream, and Cassava Flan with spiced dulce de leche.

Shuku Shuku

Any stand-outs?

Bread doesn’t usually excite us that much at ANZA, but the Tapalapa, a traditional West African bread made with millet and wheat flour, served with goat’s milk ricotta, and drizzled with house-smoked honey and bacon butter, was next-level amazing.

What about the drinks?

Brother Tamba has also inspired many of the drinks here with half of the cocktail menu inspired by stories from his life. The bar boasts a collection of over 60% African spirits and award-winning bartender Joma Rivera has created wonderful concoctions as a homage. The Next Pelé (how Tamba introduced himself) is a cocktail of cachaça, tamarind, lime and long pepper inspired by the football games of Tamba’s youth.

Anything else we should know?

Book asap! Since opening, Tamba has become super-popular, so plan ahead. With the aforementioned soft and sultry lighting, it’s perfect for a romantic dinner or a special celebration with family and friends. Whatever you do, don’t leave without visiting the bathrooms. Complete with a fake crocodile languishing on the floor, they are surely the most memorable in town.

Tamba
 101 Duxton Road, 089964
 tamba.life

Beat The Heat: Tips for surviving Singapore’s scorching weather

Some things work better at a hot temperature. Candles, tumble dryers, and a quality vindaloo for example. As expats in Singapore, we signed up for year-round steamy weather as part of the package. However, recent months has seen the heat feeling a little hotter than average. The intense mercury has transformed Singapore into a fiery furnace, with few signs of abating.

Meteorologists confirmed that April and May were the hottest months of the year, and have predicted that due to the lasting impact of the El Niño phenomenon (which typically brings drier and hotter conditions to Southeast Asia), the searing conditions are not going to cool down anytime soon.

While sunlight exposure increases the human body’s vitamin D levels which
have been proven to boost energy levels, keep our bones strong and healthy and enhance overall alertness and mental performance, multiple studies report adverse effects of heat and glare on our health and wellbeing.

What we need is a plan for keeping body, mind and soul feeling chill as we head into Singapore’s official ‘summer’ months that generally last until September. Dr Vinodhini Elangovan, General Practitioner at International Medical Clinic (imc-healthcare.com) introduces ANZA’s Stay Cool Guide with some top-to-toe health tips.

1. Headaches

Headaches, weakness and dizziness are symptoms of mild forms of heat-related illnesses. These symptoms are typically associated with a core temperature of less than 40 degrees, and people are often unable to continue with the activity they’re performing. There are various theories on how warmth can trigger heat-related headaches and dehydration is thought to be the main culprit. Changes in light during heat can sometimes prompt migraines for some individuals.
How to deal: Go somewhere cool and rest. Start adequate hydration and remove any excessive clothing. If there’s little improvement, or you’re unable to tolerate fluids orally, seek medical attention as soon as possible.

2. Mood

Some people feel more irritable, anxious or depressed than usual because of the heat. The inability to focus properly can perpetuate stress or lead to unruly mood swings.
How to deal: Stress management techniques such as deep breathing, yoga and meditation can sometimes help to manage symptoms of anxiety and stress. ANZA loves the yoga classes at Yoga Movement (yogamovement.com) and the stress techniques on the Headspace app (headspace.com).

3. Fertility

While links between extreme heat and fertility have not been well studied, heat can affect reproductive cells, lowering sperm count and motility. It can also affect a woman’s ovulation and egg quality.
How to deal: Men can help the situation by avoiding prolonged periods of time in hot tubs and/or Jacuzzis, wearing boxers or loose pants made from natural fibre like cotton, and avoiding tight biking shorts, combined with long periods of sitting on a bike seat. Couples trying to conceive can try to sleep in cooler environments. Pregnant women should avoid extreme heat, especially if they’re in their third trimester.

4. Heat Exhaustion

This typically occurs with a core temperature of 38.3 degrees Celsius to 40 degrees Celsius. Sufferers might present with symptoms of mild confusion, lightheadedness and possible fainting. They’re usually dehydrated, sweaty, may appear pale, and commonly suffer from headaches and gastrointestinal disturbances. The key difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke is that for the latter, the individual may experience significant neurological disturbances such as persistent delirium and seizures.
How to deal: Remove any excess clothing. Try to cool down under running cool water in a shower or with a hose. Stay hydrated. If rapid improvement doesn’t take place see your GP or head to an emergency room.

5. Heat Cramps

Heat cramps typically occur with a core temperature of less than 38 degrees. They tend to happen during or after exercise, which is usually a result of extreme environmental conditions, dehydration, and loss of some of the electrolytes in the body.
How to deal: Relax, stretch and massage the involved muscle. Rehydrate with a sports drink to replace electrolyte loss.

6. Kidney Failure

Our kidneys are responsible for regulating fluid balance in the body. Dehydration due to heat can lead to low blood pressure and subsequent decreased kidney function. Chronic kidney disease is a progressive loss of kidney function and is quite common among the elderly and those with risk factors such as diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease, so keep an eye out.
How to deal: Stay hydrated and limit salt intake. If there is a concern over kidney function being affected, avoid the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen.

7. Skin

Heat can cause flare-ups of pre-existing skin conditions such as eczema. Perspiring is our natural defence mechanism to cool the body down when we’re hot, but the build-up of sweat can sometimes aggravate other skin issues, so be warned. The back of knees, insides of elbows and around the neck are typically where moisture and sweat accumulates.
How to deal: If you have sweated through your clothes, rinse off with fresh water and change into a new outfit. Increased sweat and oil can lead to clogged pores and sometimes trigger acne breakouts. For those with acne-prone skin, use a lightweight moisturiser that is non-comedogenic, avoid very hot showers which can irritate, and opt for a mild cleanser.

8. Sun Damage

Signs of damage include uneven skin tone, wrinkles, and age spots. More serious issues are skin cancers such as melanoma.
How to deal: You know the drill! Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen of at least SPF50, at least 15-30 minutes before stepping outside. If you’re wearing makeup, sunscreen should be applied first and reapplied around every two hours.

New Zealand High Commisson strengthens ties with Singapore

Gabby and PM Luxon

As High Commissioner, one of the highlights of any posting is having the Prime Minister in town and last month Rt Hon Christopher Luxon made his first official trip to Singapore. Accompanied by Minister for Climate Change Hon Simon Watts, officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade, New Zealand Trade & Enterprise, a business delegation, Māori culture group and media, the trip was a fantastic opportunity to strengthen ties between NZ – SG and showcase the very best of Aotearoa New Zealand.

PM Luxon and Singapore’s then Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong agreed to elevate the relationship by the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year. They agreed that both sides should look to expand practical cooperation in priority areas of cooperation including food security, supply chains, the green economy, digital, critical and emerging technology, and engagement on Pacific issues and efforts to advocate for Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Bilateral links

Left: PM Luxon with Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong Right: PM Luxon meets new SG Prime Minister Lawrence Wong

Having Prime Minister Luxon meet both Prime Minister Lee and then Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on the very day their handover of power was announced was particularly special, adding poignancy to the official engagements and underscoring the closeness of bilateral links. Prime Minister Luxon took the opportunity to thank PM Lee for the enormous contribution he has made noting, “Prime Minister Lee is rightly esteemed as a leader of the highest order the world over”. He offered DPM Wong New Zealand’s friendship and support as he assumes the Prime Ministerial role and leads Singapore’s Fourth Generation Government.

PM Luxon, Minister Watts, MP Garcia with officials & NZTE business delegation

The visit allowed us to showcase New Zealand products, services, food, wine, and of course, our people. With events focused on education, the green economy and advanced technology, as well as a dialogue on geoeconomic developments and a Gala Dinner, the visit brought together New Zealand’s key stakeholders in Singapore and the many New Zealanders and friends of New Zealand that help the High Commission advance New Zealand’s interests here every day.

PM Luxon, Minister Watts and MP Paulo Garcia with the NZ Inc Team

With increased ambition for the outcomes between our two countries, I am confident New Zealand – Singapore links will continue to go from strength to strength. The logistics and planning of such a large event cannot be underestimated and I am grateful to everyone, whether working within government or the private sector who contributed to the success of the visit.

Serving up success with Marlborough College

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Amanda and Audrey with Coach Yannick

As the school day ends, a small group of pupils make their way to the tennis courts for their training session. It’s only been a few days since Marlborough College Malaysia’s success at the FOBISIA Tennis Championships in Hua Hin, Thailand, where twins Amanda and Audrey achieved the gold and silver medals, but already these two young athletes are keen to be back on the court practising their serves under the careful guidance of professional coaches Yannick and Paulo.

Both girls, now in Year 8, have been training at the College since the age of four. Over the years, their natural talent on the tennis court has been carefully nurtured and they now both play for the Malaysian National Team. Their success is down to their dedication to the sport and to their expert coaches who not only have a wealth of experience but have also been tennis stars in their own right.

“You develop the ability to push through”

Lead Coach Yannick competed in the Davis Cup and was ranked number 3 in Philippine Men’s Tennis from 2006 to 2008, while Coach Paulo was ranked the number one player of Western Visayas Region, Philippines from 2013 – 2019. Being professional tennis players has given these coaches vital insights into developing young athletes to compete at the highest level as well as helping them navigate the psychological aspects of the game.

Learning independence

Pupils have ample space to practise on the six outdoor courts

Coach Yannick’s love for tennis is infectious and he encourages both elite athletes and those trying out tennis for the first time. He explains that, “for our young tennis players we always make sure the sessions are fun. We want them to enjoy the game. We use bigger, softer balls, and smaller indoor courts so that younger pupils can have success early on and find that love for tennis. For our Senior School players, tennis is great physical exercise, but it also teaches pupils to be resilient. Unlike team sports, in tennis you have to be independent and rely on yourself. If you are losing a game you need to develop the ability to push through and this allows players to get stronger mentally.”

There is an emphasis on fun during MCM Tennis lessons

The combination of expert coaching, outstanding facilities, and a focus on fun and skills development has made tennis a beloved sport at Marlborough College Malaysia for all ages and abilities. Lessons are available for Reception age children right up until age 18, alongside the popular Half Term Tennis Camps which are a great way for young athletes to try out the sport in a fun and relaxed environment.

So, with such a successful tennis programme in place, only one question remains: anyone for tennis? To find out more about the tennis programme at Marlborough College Malaysia email [email protected]y. Alternatively, visit www.marlboroughcollegemalaysia.org for more information.

 

 

Marlborough College Malaysia
 +60 7 560 2200
 www.marlboroughcollegemalaysia.org
 Marlborough College Malaysia
 mcmalaysia
 @MarlboroughMCM
 Marlborough College Malaysia

 

Top spots for serenity in Singapore

Stress is on the rise, especially in Singapore. The crazy cost of living, strain on workers (and non-workers wanting to work), rising mercury and general chaos can take a toll. According to a study at the end of last year, stress levels in the Lion City have increased steadily since 2021, with close to nine in 10 people – a whopping 87 percent – reporting that they felt under pressure. What’s more, the findings catapulted our tiny island into a category above the global average for stress levels.

Finding respite is paramount for our health, wellbeing and state of our anxiety-chewed fingernails. From quiet cafes to blissful therapies, outdoor escapes to relaxing activities, here’s tips on how and where to feel good on the red dot.

Places For Support & Soothing

Yunomori Onsen
Say kon’nichiwa to Kallang Wave Mall where you’ll find a Japanese spa with 11 relaxing onsen baths. You might think you’re in Sapporo rather than a shopping centre thanks to the colourful yukatas (robes), basket of obi (belts), and very-small-and-slightly-embarrassing shower stools which are all the rage in actual Japan. Males and females are separated into different bathing areas that include mineral bubble baths, jet baths, and the Yunomori Signature Bath infused with Epsom salt, tea, and essential oils.
 1 Stadium Place, #02-17/18 Kallang Wave Mall, 397628  yunomorionsen.com  yunomori_sg

Release, A Bodytalk Clinic
If your body or mind is feeling out of wack, this holistic clinic might be what you need. “Your physical body represents who you are as a person and conflicts in life show up in the body as poor health,” says founder Sufen Paphassarang. Sufen’s interests lie in how memories and beliefs are formed in fetal life, which are unconscious. Using the science of western medicine as well as ancient philosophies of Chinese and Indian medicine, Sufen balances and improves health by understanding the power that the mind has over the human body.
1 Commonwealth Lane #09-08, 149544 release.com.sg


Soma Haus
This small but perfectly formed escape on the East Coast invites you to embark on a journey of recovery and regulation. Soma House is a shophouse-shaped soul saver, summoning clients to reconnect with themselves, learn empowerment through body awareness, and to discover new and alternative treatments to get mind and soul back on track. Try their saunas, ice baths, lymphatic compression and flotation therapy, or just go for a simple yoga, somatic breathwork, or sound bath session.
 108 Joo Chiat Road, #01-01, 427401  somahaus.co

Space 2b
If you spend your days in the CBD, you’ll likely feel more stressed than most (especially if lunchtimes include trying to locate a quality sandwich). However, there is a place to escape to amongst the bars and bistros of Stanley Street. Space 2B is a sacred spot where, upon arrival, peace envelopes you. Classes here include mindfulness, relaxation, breathwork, visualisation, movement, sound, and creativity. Being so centrally located, it’s an ideal go-to for meditation before work, a yogic lunch break, or just a nice lie down after a day in the office.
 2B Stanley Street, 068721  space2b.sg

Palm Ave Float Club
Do you dream of drifting away? You can do just that at Palm Ave Float Club. Here you’ll find enclosed fibreglass pods filled with 11 inches of soothing, warm salty water, that enable you to float effortlessly. Once inside the pod, you’re devoid of any stimulation such as light (optional) and sound except for some soothing music at the beginning and end of your hour-long experience. In this womb-like environment, it’s believed your body can recover from aches and pains, and your mind can reach a meditative state that’s near impossible to achieve when you live in a bustling city-scape.
 66 Kampong Bugis, #05-01, 338987 palmavefloat.club

Pablo Blau
If you’ve ever wondered what being in the salt mines and caves of Europe feels like, look no further. Coated with pharmaceutical-grade dry salt crystals, treatment rooms here boast a unique salt generator which grinds and emits negative ions and salt particles to create a super-healing space. A bit of time spent immersed in these magical microscopic salt particles is said to improve respiratory conditions like asthma, skin-related issues like eczema, plus a whole bunch of other benefits.
Raffles City Shopping Centre, 252 North Bridge Road, #02-26A, 179103  pabloblau.com

The Ark Studio
Away from the famous and fancy wellbeing studios, The Ark is a breath of fresh air. Located in an HDB estate, you feel your shoulders drop as you step inside the home of Noel and Fiona, two wellness experts who’ve converted their considerably large living room into a sweeping studio space. Come here for events, yoga classes, private healing sessions, or to indulge in a bit of Taiji bodywork, tai chi, or nurturing of your inner child.
 8 Kim Tian Place, #15-55,163008 healingarkstudio.com

Xiu Nature Connections
Certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide Youmin Yap and her team provide guided forest bathing sessions in Singapore. Unlike a standard stroll, they encourage you to connect with nature through sensorial experiences such as taking in the scents around you, observing wildlife and – okay – hugging a tree. “I invite you to rest, rise, and thrive – physically, mentally and emotionally,” Youmin says.
xiunatureconnections.com

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