SME MY December 2020

PRE-LIVE 49
TEASER IMAGE
(WITH CALL TO ACTION) Furthermore, the largest KOLs on
EMPHASISE WHAT Alibaba’s platforms can rake in mind-
VIEWERS WILL GET boggling sums. The queen of them
all is Huang Wei, or better known as
Viya. Her viewership numbers will
make any network executive jealous
– she drew 37 million viewers in May,
more than the finales of Game of
Thrones and Breaking Bad combined.
She made US$385 million in a single
day (on shopping extravaganza
Singles’ Day 2019) – more than the
GDP of Nauru. She literally sells
everything: from perfume to rice and
noodles, and even a rocket launch
into orbit (worth US$5.6 million).

We are taught the basics at
MODEN Academy. Livestreaming
starts long before the moment you
face the camera. Like all media
projects, preparation has to be done.

Firstly, we need to get the hype
going. We set up teasers for the
audience three to five days before
we stream, using snazzy graphics
and catchy social media posts. In the
world of short attention spans, we are
taught to get to the point and use loud
graphics – all to capture the eyeball
within three seconds.

Next, we have to decide on a
presentation style. There are as
many presentation styles as there
are streamers. Ranging from Viya’s
enthusiastic and energetic style, to a
more serious, technical tone – each

PHASES OF LIVESTREAMING

DURING THE POST-LIVE
LIVESTREAM ENSURE THE
PROMOTE THE PRODUCT RECORDING STAYS UP
DON’T STRAY TOO FAR RESPOND TO ENQUIRIES
FROM TEASER AND FULFILMENT
ENGAGE WITH
THE AUDIENCE

50 FEATURE

would-be streamer will need to find his find a new source of income. With that, College, is one of a growing cohort
or her style. There is no one ‘correct’ we actually want to pick some of the of young people interested in using
style, but it will depend on the niche the learnings and insights from our group livestreaming as a source of extra
streamer will be pursuing. in China, apply it, and then share it income. She explains that she has a side
with Malaysians.” job selling health and beauty products.
To decide on our style and increase The livestream is to drive sales for these
our self-confidence, we are urged to “Using technology for good is at the products. Along with her friend Xue En,
circulate around the room and introduce heart of everything we do. Aside from they found the class to be helpful, but
ourselves. I find myself speaking to providing access to tools and platforms, are nervous to go in front of the camera.
Kenny Tan, who owns an online shop Alibaba Group also provides KOLs with
selling electronics appliances. “We want an end-to-end ecosystem that supports A SUCCESSFUL
to break down local limitations, and gain their training and provides them with LIVESTREAMING CAREER
an alternate form of engagement, other opportunities to work with brands. The
than our options on Shopee and Lazada,” programme will leverage this expertise But, of course, livestreaming in Malaysia
he explains as to why he is joining the and extensive resources to provide is not a new phenomenon. There have
livestreaming class. Malaysians in need with the skillsets been livestreamers who have turned it
needed for successful e-commerce into a successful, full-time career.
As the Chinese market matures, livestreaming,” explains Lew.
many think that the next wave of Liew Sieow Juin is a mother of two,
livestreaming will happen in Southeast In providing Malaysians with skills to who is a full-time housewife. Last year,
Asia – specifically the Malaysian market. go livestreaming, it’s clear that Alibaba is she reinvented herself as online makeup
hoping for a breakthough in tapping the and cosmetics guru Thera, where she
Jess Lew, country manager of Tmall next growing market in e-commerce. And streams to an audience of thousands
World Malaysia says, “Livestreaming judging from the number of participants every day.
is now a key technology in China. The at MODEN Academy, there’s no shortage
ecosystem is quite established. Now we of takers either. “I decided to start livestreaming
see huge growth potential in Malaysia, since I liked makeup. As a mother
especially during the MCO [quarantine Jaclyn Yee, a fresh graduate from of two kids, many people have a
period], and people are using that to Tunku Abdul Rahman University perception that it is alright to look

FOR BRANDS: CHOOSING A LIVESTREAMER

CHOOSE THE RIGHT CHOOSE THE RIGHT
INDUSTRY STREAMER PRODUCT TO BE PROMOTED

MAKE SURE THE STREAMER NOT ALL PRODUCTS ARE
KNOWS WHAT HE OR SHE SUITABLE FOR PROMOTION
IS TALKING ABOUT. PLUS, VIA LIVESTREAM. FOR
THEIR EXISTING FAN BASE EXAMPLE, NICHE LUXURY
SHOULD ALREADY KNOW PRODUCTS OR PRODUCTS
OR BE AWARE ABOUT WITH LEGAL RESTRICTIONS
YOUR PRODUCT. ON SELLING E.G. ALCOHOL.

SUPPORT THE STREAMER
WITH YOUR BRANDING

DON’T LET THE STREAMER
CARRY ALL THE BRANDING
BURDEN. HIS OR HER ROLE
IS TO COMPLEMENT YOUR
EXISTING MARKETING, NOT
REPLACE IT.

51

dowdy or frumpy. But I wanted to While the engineering behind it behind a livestreamer feels like
show that there is nothing wrong with remains complex, new tools are they are interacting with a person,
looking beautiful and being your best helping to democratise live streaming a friend – not with an impersonal
self, even if you have two kids. So I implementation. brand ambassador. Hang explains that
started livestreaming as a new business such KOLs are the future. “There is
line,” she explains. According to Cisco, the number of a perception that brand ambassadors
internet-connected devices will be more are ‘paid actors’ as it were. That’s why
During her livestream, Thera than three times the global population KOLs work so well. A fundamental
looks every inch the glamourous by 2023. It’s safe to assume that a marketing practice is word of mouth.
on-screen star. Yet she exudes an number of these will implement live As long as they provide genuine
approachable, girl-next-door feeling streaming technology – being as today’s feedback, people will trust the KOL,
– which is crucial for audience smartphones, refrigerators, drones, and the brand indirectly.”
engagement. Using a lively, energetic and cars already do. Behind the scenes,
style, Thera guides her viewers increasing use of open-source protocols It’s now time to face the camera. We
through a galaxy of cosmetic items, will mean improved interoperability and crowd into booths set up by MODEN
trying them out on her face while better security. Academy for this purpose. Phone, ring
sharing makeup tips. light, and it’s time to go live.
Pritchett of Shootsta thinks that
She explains, “Livestreaming has livestreaming will continue going strong. But since we are livestreaming
changed my mindset, as I used to be a “TV shopping is making a comeback beginners, we go live on a private
very introverted person. But I do let the again, with more distributed channels Facebook group. Only the programme
real me out – the part of me that likes such as Facebook, Youtube and Instagram. attendees can see us. Since we are,
makeup, that likes to look good – and I This adaptation is due to reaching out by and large, livestreaming virgins
channel that in my livestream.” to their target audience who are staying/ – the whole group is supportive of
working from home due to the pandemic. each other. Despite our mistakes and
On the flip side, brands are also There is a shift in expectations, from awkwardness in front of the camera,
warming to the idea of livestreaming passive information sharing to community we get through the session. Jerry is
as an effective way to reach out to engagement/consumer-initiated also watching to point out good points,
consumers. Jerry Hang explains that contributions,” he explains. where we can improve, and what we
the skillset that livestreamers have, can add to spice up our livestream.
such as copywriting, video production, Hang also thinks that with young
and presentation skills can help brands people nowadays being more Internet Though nervous, fresh graduate
promote their products or services and social media savvy, livestreaming Yee presented with a natural bubbly
more effectively. will not only be here to stay, but also tone during her livestream. “I think I
evolve. “In China, the concept of offline let my nerves get the better of me! But
“When we talk about key opinion to online (O2O) is outdated. Now, it is that’s a relief – got that over with,”
leaders, or KOLs, we are emphasising on offline merging with online. There are she exclaims.
those who can express their knowledge no more boundaries between offline
and experience. Not only that, but the and online shopping. The ‘shop in shop’ We end the session by
medium in which they operate makes setups are just an example of that. The congratulating and supporting each
a difference. The instant response, adoption of new technologies like 5G other on the good job done. It’s a
engagement, and feeling of community will only accelerate this trend as the hectic two days, but we end on a high
can help with branding. And with the boundaries between real life and digital note. But will we cut it in the highly
latest innovations in livestreaming life blur.” competitive world of livestreaming out
sales, like shop-in-shop or one-click to there? Only time will tell.
purchase, it can even help with sales,” Furthermore, livestreaming is an
says Hang. essential way for brands to reach out
to customers in the age of cord-cutting
THE FUTURE OF LIVESTREAMING and ad blocking. The community

Whether people are creating or
consuming it, streaming content has
been a prime source of escapism for
many during the COVID-19 pandemic.

But is the livestreaming boom
temporary? Or will it keep going strong,
say, five years down the line?

The COVID-19 outbreak
has demonstrated how essential
related technology is to business
continuity, such as virtual learning,
video conferencing, telemedicine.
As streaming technology becomes
more advanced, it has also become
cheaper and more user-friendly. Gone
are the days when organisations
needed an in-house engineering
team to implement video streaming.

V entureGrab, better entry options and exit location and investment amount
Malaysia’s first SME strategies for both parties to through the portal.
business matching reduce their cost. For business
portal was founded in owners, VentureGrab has VentureGrab also offers
2018. We provide an provided an open platform to list marketing services to increase
online investment portal to connect their key business information to the exposure of listed business
business owners, young advertise the business effectively. and related professional services
entrepreneurs and potential Instead of starting a business such as lawyers, company
investors who are looking for from scratch, investors can secretariat etc to facilitate
business start-up, expansion, search for the right business that and assist the documentation
partnership, franchising/licensing fits their investment preference and transition period. All in all,
and business acquisition. via customized filtering features VentureGrab provides a win-
VentureGrab aims to provide such as business type, industry, win solution for both business
owners and investors.

OUR SERVICES

CAMPAIGN ACTIVATIONS BUSINESS CONSULTATION ATRNUDSLTEEGEASLEARDVIVCIECSE LEADS MANAGEMENT

To assist business owner in We offer consultation services We offer consultation to both of We assist to monitor the leads
increasing the exposure of their to business owner and business owner and investor, and determine out hot leads
business opportunities. We investor during business protecting the risk of both before business matching meet
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as below: Identifying and filtering of specified legal agreement help to ensure that time and cost
1 Hour business analysis of business investors background preparation such as: is utilised.
your business Business presentation and Non-Disclosure Agreement Leads filtering
Assistance in developing negotiation with business (NDA) Buyer verification
unique selling points investors Letter of Offer (LOO) ost meeting follow-up
Design artwork for social Site recce/ internal meeting Letter of Intent (LOI)
media postings arrangement Sales & Purchase Agreement
Bilingual content writes up Market analysis and
Targeted marketing group consultation to assist in
advertisement business matching
Landing page + SEM Basic investor deck in
justifying the business
investment

Eden has a strong passion in beverage industry 12 years
SME business. He is looking to ago but decided to stop loss
revamp the business acquisition by closing down the business.
process by digitalizing and However, he has seized the
gathering both the business business opportunity from the
owner and business investor on a experience of paying high exit
platform. He has always had the cost and come out with the
thoughts of building a platform idea of having a platform for
which allows the business owner business owner who wishes
to list their business opportunities to transfer the ownership of
and business investor to search the business. Thereafter,
for their business investment. Eden ventured into media and
advertising industry and built
Eden holds a Bachelor of a media and event company.
Business in Economics and Throughout the years, Eden
Finance from RMIT University, has been awarded in SME 100
Australia and Master of (2018), Golden Eagle Awards
Business Administration (MBA) (2016) and Sin Chew Business
from University of Leicester, Excellence Awards (2015).
United Kingdom.
“Things do not happen;
Eden had established his Things are made to happen.”
first business in the food and

EDEN TANG, FOUNDER & CEO OF VENTUREGRAB

A business “Life’s
exit is a simple,
business you make
opportunity choices
for new and you
investor. I don’t look
believe that back.”
through
VentureGrab,
a business
can have
a second
chance.

SITI SALWA, CO-FOUNDER OF VENTUREGRAB CHARLES LEE, BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR

TESTIMONIAL VentureGrab is very helpful in the VentureGrab has made
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and energetic team I have ever VentureGrab helped me in
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Besides that, the professional required by VentureGrab are
spirit and opinions of reasonable.

CHRISTY LEONG, FOUNDER OF ELIJAH ART

www.venturegrab.com @venturegrab +60 12 - 2866 858

54 TECHNOLOGY

BY
JENNIFER

LEE

THE PLAYSTATION 5'S PLAN
TO WIN THE CONSOLE WARS

W here I live,
there is a
hawker selling
prawn
noodles from
a stall that
he’s manned
for the past
50-odd years.
His noodles
are slippery and chewy, while the broth is
rich and tastes of prawn (as it should).
Garnishes include shrimp, an egg,
spinach, and fried onions.
This hawker makes every bowl
identical, and has been for the past 50-
odd years. You can’t customise your bowl,
nor can you request he leave out certain
ingredients. Don’t like egg in your bowl?
Tough luck – fish it out and don’t eat it.
Despite this, they’re the world’s best
bowl of prawn noodles. They may even in the end what matters is the content. For Sony, it's all about the
be the world’s best bowl of any noodles, If the content — created by professionals blockbuster global franchises (obviously).
period. Don’t take my word for it – — is objectively fabulous (whatever that This is clear to hardcore gamers, but this
there’s always a line and a half down the means), then consumers will come. They is what we mean by Sony's strict focus on
block for his noodles, from the time he will pay more. They will put up with content. Wednesday's presentation was
opens to the time he runs out of broth. inconveniences. They will take it our way. all about demonstrating that many of the
That's just about how Sony seems to world's most important entertainment
be approaching the next generation of And Sony is correct. They will. properties, from gaming and beyond,
the US$160 billion video game business. Microsoft is trying to disrupt gaming will be on PlayStation 5. That included
Sony's showcase online event Wednesday both as a business and as a consumer Spider-Man, Final Fantasy, Harry Potter,
for its coming PlayStation 5 console experience. That's because Microsoft has Fortnite, Call of Duty, Resident Evil and
confirmed the company's proudly, long been No. 2 in this part of the market God of War.
powerfully conservative notion of what and is trying to leverage its broad technical
is fundamentally important in the mass and financial power into advantages in It will generally be more expensive
entertainment industry. gaming. Sony, on the other hand, is betting and less flexible to choose PlayStation
It's not ultimately about how people that the strategy that has made PlayStation over Xbox, and Sony is fine with that.
buy and consume your product. It's not No. 1 in the console business for years — The entry point for the new Xbox systems
about consumers engaging with one a focus on core content, the traditional is basically US$25 a month. Over two
another. It's not about prices. It's not about couch-and-television console experience years, that buys the cheaper Xbox and
technology. It is not even about innovation. and traditional consumer spending also hundreds of games. Retail price
Those things can all play a role. But patterns — will continue to work for at least is US$299 for the box and US$499 for
the next several years. the more powerful version (which has a

55

US$35/month bundle option including online multiplayer service (which costs appears comfortable with the vision of
games). On Wednesday, Sony announced US$60 for a year) will get free access PlayStation as a premium experience.
that the less-expensive PlayStation 5 to 18 top-end games from the previous "It's a considerable capital outlay, and we
version costs US$399 and the top-end PlayStation 4. want to make sure people know they are
edition also costs US$499. In the United buying a true next-generation console,"
States, the new Xboxes will arrive on "For us, having a catalogue of games Ryan told The Washington Post.
November 10 and the PlayStation 5s on is not something that defines a platform,"
November 12. Sony's PlayStation chief Jim Ryan told Sony's ideal is boutique quality at global
Gamesindustry.biz. "We are not going to scale. I don't actually know, but I'm pretty
Technically, the two PS5 versions are go down the road of putting new releases sure that my prawn noodle hawker friend
largely identical; the US$499 version has an titles into a subscription model." will laugh you out of his stall if you mention
optical drive whereas the US$399 version the word ‘expansion’ in front of him. I doubt
does not. With the new Xboxes, the US$299 Sony also announced Wednesday he has passed on his secret broth recipe to
version is less powerful than the US$499 that at least some of its new top-end his children – even if they are interested in
version. This will allow both companies to games will cost US$70 rather than the taking over the business anyway.
claim a pricing and value victory. US$60 that has been customary. U.S.
consumers seem likely to generally take You can't build the world's top console
Sony is not offering a monthly that in stride, memes notwithstanding. gaming franchise like that, but Sony is
payment plan comparable to Microsoft's Rumblings may be louder in Europe, trying to build and protect the values that
and does not offer a similarly broad game however, where Sony's top game price is got the company here in the first place.
subscription service. However, Sony now €80 (US$95).
did make the attractive announcement And as with my bowl of prawn
Wednesday that PS5 subscribers to its Sony is not quite defining PlayStation noodles, legions of loyal fans wouldn't
as a luxury brand, but the company have it any other way.

56 TECHNOLOGY

BY
JENNIFER

LEE

T o generate
value, leaders
must fully
understand
how AI works
and where its
limitations lie.
Myths include,
“Artificial
intelligence
(AI)I will automate everything and put
people out of work.” “AI is a science-
fiction technology.” “Robots will take over
the world.”
The hype around AI has produced
many myths, in mainstream media, in
board meetings and across organizations.
Some worry about an “almighty” AI that
will take over the world, and some think
that AI is nothing more than a buzzword.
The truth is somewhere in the middle.
“Throughout the COVID-19 crisis,
the majority of organizations have been
maintaining or even increasing their struggling with cash flows and uncertain MYTH NO. 03:
investments in artificial intelligence,” says economic conditions, AI is generating
Saniye Alaybeyi, Senior Director Analyst, revenue. It is improving customer INTELLIGENT MACHINES LEARN
Gartner. “However, only half of these interactions, analyzing data more ON THEIR OWN
projects ever make it to production.” quickly, generating early warnings about
AI is not only augmenting mundane upcoming disruptions and automating A finished ML product gives the
jobs. IT leaders need to create value decision making. impression that it is able to learn on its
for AI by establishing business benefits own. However, experienced human data
such as cost reductions and operations MYTH NO. 02: scientists frame the problem, prepare the
improvement by providing practical data, determine appropriate datasets,
applications of the technology. AI AND MACHINE LEARNING (ML) ARE THE remove potential bias in the training
SAME AND INTERCHANGEABLE data and, most importantly, continually
MYTH NO. 01: update the software to enable the
Machine learning is a subset of integration of new knowledge and data
AI IS AN UNNECESSARY LUXURY IN TIMES artificial intelligence. ML requires into the next learning cycle.
OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC a well-thought-out training and data
acquisition strategy. AI, on the other MYTH NO. 04:
AI is emerging as an important enabler of hand, is an umbrella term for a broad
cost optimization and business continuity set of computer engineering techniques, AI CAN BE 100% OBJECTIVE
during the COVID-19 crisis. Contrary ranging from ML and rule-based systems
to the misconception that AI is an to optimization techniques and natural Every AI technology is based on data,
unnecessary luxury when enterprises are language processing (NLP). rules and other kinds of input from
human experts. Because all humans

57

are intrinsically biased in one way or MYTH NO. 05: to observing and dealing with unusual
another, so is the AI. Systems that are cases. Adjust job profiles and capacity
frequently retrained — for example, using AI WILL ONLY REPLACE MUNDANE JOBS planning and offer retraining options for
new data from social media — are even existing staff.
more vulnerable to unwanted bias or AI enables businesses to make more
intentional malevolent influences. accurate decisions via predictions, MYTH NO. 06:
classifications and clustering. These
Even if your current AI strategy is “no abilities have enabled AI-based MY BUSINESS DOES NOT NEED
AI,” this should be a conscious decision solutions to reach deep into work AN AI STRATEGY
based on research and consideration. environments, not only replacing
mundane tasks, but also augmenting Every organization should consider the
“At the moment, there is no way those that are more complex. potential impact of AI on its strategy and
to completely banish bias; however, investigate how this technology can be
we have to try our best to reduce it to Take, for example, the use of applied to the organization’s business
a minimum,” says Alexander Linden, imaging AI in healthcare. A chest problems. In many ways, AI exploitation
VP Analyst, Gartner. “In addition to X-ray application based on AI can is the same as forgoing the next phase of
technological solutions, such as diverse detect diseases faster than can automation, and could place enterprises at
datasets, it is crucial to also ensure radiologists. In the financial and a competitive disadvantage.
diversity in the teams working with insurance industry, roboadvisors are
the AI and have team members review being used for wealth management “Even if AI is not an immediate fix to
each other’s work. This simple process and fraud detection. These capabilities a problem, businesses should revisit the
can significantly reduce selection and don’t eliminate human involvement in decision to not implement AI periodically,”
confirmation bias.” those tasks but will eventually limit it says Alaybeyi. “Organizations need to
find appropriate use cases that leverage
AI’s power to augment human work,
decisions and interactions, as well as other
functional innovation opportunities.”

In the next four years, 69 percent
of what a manager currently does will
be automated. In such a disruptive
environment, enterprises need a reality
check on how best they can integrate
AI into their strategy and be ready for
forthcoming disruptions.

58 COLUMN
SALES BLOG WITH SUE BARRETT

Sue Barrett is a sales expert,
writer, business speaker and

adviser, facilitator, sales
coach, training provider and
entrepreneur. Sue founded
Barrett in 1995 to positively

transform the culture,
capability and continuous
learning of leaders, teams and
businesses by developing sales
driven organisations that are
equipped for the 21st Century.

I n light of current and the human psyche. Kohn shows that people produce inferior is where the joy of work and learn-
discussions about work when they are enticed with money, grades, or other incentives. ing springs from. The performance
executive performance Daniel Pink talks about this issue as well in his book Drive: “The more incentive industry and business
bonuses and incentives, and prominent salary, perks, and benefits are in someone’s work life, the world hasn’t caught up with this
exceptional payments for personal more they can inhibit creativity and unravel performance”. new understanding. As Daniel Pink
items and services, I thought it says ‘If we want to strengthen our
would be worthwhile to take a The inferior quality of work is only one side of the problem. We companies, elevate our lives, and
look at the possible impact of also need to talk about the consequences of flawed and often unethical improve the world, we need to
incentives and rewards systems on rewards systems, and how they affect people’s ability to make good close the gap between what science
the quality of our decision decisions and do right by others. The growing body of research shows knows and what business does’.
making, the effect on workplace the more orgsanisations rely on pay-for-performance plans the worse
performance and sustainable things get for everyone – just think the tragic fallout for customers and We must reset and find
business practices. This applies to communities from the Banking Royal Commission with their self-serving better ways to work together
incentives paid to salespeople and incentive programs. and return to our natural human
other employees, as well. roots of curious, self-generative
Several years ago, I read a very EXECUTIVES’ BONUS AND REWARDS learners, pro-social helpers who
interesting book called Punished by work for fairer better outcomes.
Rewards: The Trouble with Gold Executives’ bonuses have been growing dramatically since the 80’s. The intrinsic joy of overcoming
Stars, Incentive Plans, A’s, Praise, Actually, CEO compensation has grown 940 percent since 1978. This challenges, learning something
and Other Bribes by Alfie Kohn, is in stark contrast to the 12 percent growth of the typical worker new, helping others and so on. This
who writes and speaks widely on compensation, and this is in spite of research that shows that companies is our natural state.
human behaviour, education, and that paid CEOs “higher equity incentives had below-median returns”,
parenting. plus the accompanying rise in cultures based on greed. Let’s take a leaf from the many
Kohn writes: “Our basic who have researched, studied or
strategy for raising children, To complicate things further, there are also discretionary rewards, collated the science underpinning
teaching students, and managing not linked to particular outcomes, just for ‘being’. This system is difficult human motivation in children and
workers can be summarized in six to change, given that the people setting these payment plans – the boards adults alike such as Dr Maria Mon-
words: Do this and you’ll get that. and executive teams – are the very ones ripping the benefits from their tessori, Alfie Kohn, Daniel Pink,
We dangle goodies (from candy businesses at the expense of everyone and everything else. Richard Ryan, Edward Deci, Martin
bars to sales commissions) in front Seligman, Adam Grant, Mark Lep-
of people in much the same way RETURN TO INTRINSIC REWARDS AND MOTIVATION per, David Greene, and more.
that we train the family pet.”
While we all have the basic drive to address needs such as hunger, thirst While it will take courage and
INCENTIVES CAN LOWER THE and shelter, we also have been responding or reacting to punishment and fortitude to adjust and change, we
QUALITY OF WORK, QUALITY OF rewards system in our environment on which the performance incentive need leaders and boards to stand
THINKING AND DESIRE TO LEARN industry is based; however, scientists discovered a third drive – intrinsic up and do the right thing for us all
AND INNOVATE motivation – which comes from within ourselves. because the writing is on the wall
for all to see and most of us don’t
Kohn compares this incentive / Intrinsic motivation is the act of doing something without any like what we see.
rewards system with manipulation, obvious external rewards. You do it because it’s enjoyable and Remember, everybody lives by
and research shows that although interesting, rather than because of an outside incentive or pressure to do selling something.
this might work in the short term, it, such as a reward or deadline.
it fails in the long term and leaves
a trail of harm on work outcomes This is where creativity, innovation, opportunities spring from. This

INSPIRATIONAL BRAND CATEGORY

60 COLUMN
FELD THOUGHTS WITH BRAD FELD

Brad Feld has been an
early stage investor and
entrepreneur for over 20
years. Prior to co-founding
Foundry Group, he co-founded
Mobius Venture Capital, and
prior to that, founded Intensity
Ventures, a company “that
helped launch and operate
software companies. He is also
the co-founder of TechStars.

S ince Covid started, primary work-from-home mode. office is probably double what
I’ve had many Most of these companies are locked into long term office they pay in rent, they quickly
conversations about realize it’s not a zero-sum
office space. In April, almost leases. Over the past few months, they’ve all tried to negotiate some game.
all of our companies were relief with their landlord. While, in a few cases, there have been
unable to use their office small rent deferrals in exchange for tacking on a few months at the I think we are in a
space because of stay at end of the lease, and in a few other cases landlords have offered phase of total denial by
home orders. Today, even “meaningful cash now to buy out the lease” deals, these have been the commercial real estate
though strict stay-at-home few and far between. industry about the dynamics
orders are no longer in place going on. It’s a classic example
in most of the country, the Most of the time, the answer is some version of “Tough luck.” of short-term, zero-sum
vast majority of our And, if you dig into the lease agreement, it usually reinforces the thinking, which is antithetical
companies are still in a message of “tough luck.” to my way of approaching
things, so it grates on me.
In a moment where landlords could generate enormous
goodwill, especially with smaller companies, I believe they are doing I hypothesize that there
the opposite. Rather than showing some flexibility, they are telling are massive structural,
their customer (the tenant) who literally cannot use the physical cultural, and financial changes
space they are renting, “sorry – not my problem.” that are happening that are
being exacerbated by the
All over our portfolio, I’m seeing CEOs increasingly asking the behaviour of the commercial
question, “why am I spending all this money for something I can’t real estate owners. We’ll see,
use?” Since work-from-home is continuing, and these CEOs realize but I know the amount of
that remote or distributed work, rather than having an expensive, money that we are indirectly
central office, is attractive both culturally and economically for many spending on commercial real
of their employees. estate via our portfolio will be
dramatically less in 2023 than
When we discuss this, I always ask the question, “If you could it is today.
allocate 100% of your rent expense to your employees, would
this be a positive or a negative to your employees?” That’s easy to
answer, and when I remind CEOs that their all-in cost of being in an

COLUMN 61

UP YOUR SERVICE! WITH RON KAUFMAN

Ron Kaufman is the
world’s leading educator
and motivator for upgrading
customer service and uplifting
service culture. He is author
of the bestselling “UP! Your
Service” books and founder of
UP! Your Service.

W hen you build an meantime, it is vital for high
uplifting service level leaders to see and hear
culture in a large about early successes on
organization, senior leaders the ground. Don’t expect
must initiate the process. But your Leadership Team
ultimately all levels of to give endless support
leadership must embrace the and sponsorship without
project from the executives in hearing about some practical
the board room to supervisors applications, real stories,
on the shop floor. and uplifting examples they
can believe in and tell others
This is why Uplifting about. These do not need
Service recommends a to be big breakthroughs or
simultaneous “top down” quantum leaps—leaders know
and “bottom up” approach that a little precedes a lot.
to service improvement What they need is evidence
programs. Starting from the of practical action inside the
top with an uplifting service organization, and positive
initiative makes sense. When impact on the outside. Stories
high-level leaders speak of frontline effort, excellent
up and role-model with recoveries, and customer
commitment, it’s easier for compliments are indicators
everyone else to follow—and of success. They are a bracing
take the lead at their own tonic and necessary fuel for
levels. This is why leadership high-level service leaders.
alignment is first on the
implementation roadmap. And beware of launching
service improvement
However, a top-down programs from the bottom
approach on its own can up without support from the
leave your leaders in an top—the classic mistake of
uncomfortable position. stand-alone “frontline service
Launching from the top down training programs.” It won’t
means those at the top make take long before a motivated
the earliest efforts and then frontline employee bumps
wait for the cascade to see into a supervisor or manager
practical results. While this who does not share the
is logical—a cascade does not understanding or the passion
happen overnight—it can be for service.
frustrating for leaders who
are accustomed to impact
quickly following their
actions. In fact, a lack of
quick and observable impact
can cause some leaders
to question whether the
outcomes will happen at all.

It takes time to achieve
measurable gains in market
share, reputation, and
financial performance—
the ultimate objectives
in business. And leaders
understand that. But in the

62 COLUMN
AskGaryVee GARY VAYNERCHUK

Gary is a Belarusian
entrepreneur, author, speaker

and internet personality.
First known as a wine critic
who grew his family’s wine
business from US$3 million
to US$60 million, Vaynerchuk
is best known for his work

in digital marketing and
social media, leading New

York-based companies
VaynerMedia and VaynerX.

W hen I was growing Business relationships and partnerships oftentimes can be great shape. When I left, I left a great
up, I was a huge (they could also be terrible), but when I see two companies or two impression, hence one plus one
boxing fan. individuals coming together, and working together, and I just know equals 11 in the macro.
There’s a great boxing that the stars completely aligned for them to both extract enormous
saying that says, “styles make values – I think about how 1 plus 1 equals 11. For me, a lot of the time 1+1
fights”. What that means is, you is the macro conversation, not
could have the two best boxers WHAT 1+1=11 MEANS IN BUSINESS the micro. I know people like
in the ring, and the fight might Guy Oseary weren’t amazing
still be boring. You could also For example, when I saw that Disney bought Marvel, and then for Vayner or Maverick but our
have two below average fighters Lucasfilm, I said to my friends, “That was a 1 plus 1 equals 11”. partnership did deepen our
and it could still be the most relationship and it served as
exciting 12 rounds you ever I understood that the Disney infrastructure, with that IP the foundation for many other
see. Think about fights with coming into it, was going to work. Both because Marvel and Lucas fruitful things. That’s because
Muhammad Ali and Smokin made a lot of money in their transaction, but also because I thought we were both good actors during
Joe Frasier or Mike Tyson and Disney underpaid for that IP. Considering the future world, with the partnership even though the
Evander Holyfield. so much video online streaming, that’s why I think we’re seeing partnership itself didn’t crush.
these deals play out. Look at Disney+ and this growing sector,
I think there’s a similar we’re all gonna subscribe to something. It could be because of Star As a matter of fact, a lot
phenomenon in business. Wars and Avengers, or it could be because of The Little Mermaid of times a partnership may
and The Lion King. Disney had the foresight to understand that look like it’s 1+1= 11 to you
the IP was the thing that had the most leverage in a decentralized on the outside because both
internet world. Hence I use the term a lot. entities made some money but
meanwhile, neither respected
WHAT 1+1=11 MEANS IN PARTNERSHIPS the way that the other was
dancing during their time
I look for it in every relationship and every potential relationship. together. In the long term it
Will this just be a good partnership, or does this have the potential was actually a negative.
to be 1+1=11? To make it even more macro, I’ve done many
partnerships through the years where I’ve realized the partnership 1+1=11 is the macro way
itself – the thing we were trying to accomplish – was going to be just I look at partnerships and
okay or maybe average. I didn’t have the greatest feeling. However, relationships, and it is a term I
I was so enamoured or respected that I and the person I was doing throw around often, and that
the deal with, were aware that my intent would be to be a great is the foundation of how I see
partner. Therefore, I would be able to leave that partnership in great it .

COLUMN 63
SUCCESSFUL ENTREPRENEURSHIP WITH DAVE KURLAN

T he lettering above the saying that only 23 percent of all candidates have the Sales Coaching Dave Kurlan is a best-selling
dials of our LG washing competency as a strength and when sales managers are supposed to author, top-rated speaker and
machine have worn off. I be spending half of their time on coaching, that's seriously useless. thought leader on sales devel-
went online believing I could get a opment. He is the founder and
replacement decal and while LG Ugh. CEO of Objective Management
does not provide replacements, There are a couple of different ways to look at this. Companies that Group, Inc., the industry
they will replace the entire front are serious about building strong sales cultures and following best leader in sales assessments
panel for $125. While I was practices use OMG's sales management candidate assessments and and sales force evaluations,
researching this stupid, preventable say, "No big deal. That's why we use OMG to assess sales and sales and the CEO of David Kurlan
issue, I found that many LG management candidates!" Companies that don't use OMG probably & Associates, Inc., a consulting
owners have the same problem. don't even notice because the candidates are probably no worse than firm specialising in sales
You see, the letters come right off if most of the sales managers already working there. force development.
you are stupid enough to drape a ers receive less scrutiny, are more
stained baseball uniform (or any That brings us to the bigger problem. Six out of every seven independent, and play an even
stained clothing) over the front of sales managers suck! more important role in executing
the washer and spray it with a stain the company's strategy. You're lying
remover like Shout. How can the What does that mean for you? to yourself if you think that having
product managers for this machine Most sales managers don't coach enough, don't coach consistently, any sales manager with industry
be so bad? don't coach the right way, don't impact their salespeople's experience will get the job done.
opportunities, don't grow their salespeople, don't inspire their Sales Managers are the LG
They're not the only salespeople, don't hold their salespeople accountable, suck at washing machines of the sales
professionals who are quite bad recruiting new salespeople, spend too much time on personal sales profession and the people they
at what they do. Sales Managers and compiling reports, and not nearly enough time developing the report to are the enablers that
underperform at a mind-boggling talent on their teams. More on this topic. allow that inferior product to exist.
level. Let me show you the degree Time to towel off.
to which most sales managers are I spoke with the two senior-most executives of a national
unqualified. company who admitted that they've been trying to build a sales
organization for ten years. They said they "don't know what they
Let's begin our story with don't know." That doesn't actually differentiate them from most
sales management candidates - executives. What does differentiate them is that they admitted it!
those candidates looking for a Unfortunately, admitting that they don't know what they don't know
sales management gig. Objective doesn't solve anything. They must also be willing to follow advice,
Management Group's (OMG) follow through and stick with it and that's easier said than done.
recommendation rate for sales Building a sales culture that rocks means starting with the right sales
management candidates is only manager in place. Always.
14.8 percent with another 14.1
percent on the fringes leaving The challenge is to understand the importance of having the
71 percent of all candidates not right sales managers. If you run a company with a small sales team,
recommended! More than two you're lying to yourself if you think that you can manage salespeople
out of three candidates for sales in your spare time. Just. Not. True. If you run a larger company with
management roles don't qualify! a larger sales team, you're lying to yourself if you think that as long
as you hire the right sales talent any sales manager will do. Right up
The next question is why not? until the good salespeople quit. If you have multiple sales teams, with
One third of all candidates are more layers between the C Suite and the salespeople, sales manag-
knocked out for having low scores
in Will to Manage Sales. This
group of five sales management
competencies includes Desire for
Sales Management Success, Com-
mitment to achieving greater sales
management success, Outlook,
Responsibility and Motivation.

42 percent of all candidates
are knocked out for having Sales
Management DNA scores that
are too low. Sales Management
DNA consists of five competencies
which together are a combination
of strengths that support a sales
manager's ability to coach to
and enforce sales process, sales
strategies, sales tactics, sales
methodology, sales pipeline and
CRM compliance. When the score
dips below a certain point, those
competencies become weaknesses.

16 percent of all candidates are
knocked out for scoring too low
on the Sales Coaching competency
and another 61 percent are on
the fringes. That's another way of

CoHneagrrtaietstulations

GREEN LEADERSHIP

Organiser Official PR Partner

Supporting Organisations

Media Partners

COLUMN 65
ULTIMATE PRODUCTIVITY WITH JIM STOVALL

P eople who succeed at the books—until we were able to trade it in for a Mercedes. Jim Stovall has been a
highest level over a long I’m not advocating a Mercedes over a Pontiac for you. All of us national champion Olympic
period of time create weightlifter, president of
value in the lives of have to individually determine the things that are valuable in our lives an Emmy Award-winning
others. Warren Buffett said, and be prepared to invest accordingly. I know people who like to eat television network, and a
“People know the price of out five nights per week, so they can generally be found at a fast-food highly sought after author
everything and the value of location. I also know people who appreciate an elite, fine dining and platform speaker. He was
nothing.” Among the people and experience, and they would rather stay home for several weeks in chosen as an International
organizations with whom I order to be able to have one memorable night out.  Humanitarian of the Year,
consult, I always caution everyone joining Jimmy Carter, Nancy
about the risks of getting in a There is no right or wrong answer; we just need to make sure that Reagan, and Mother Teresa as
price war. If the main selling point we receive all that we pay for. Hopefully we are all giving high-quality recipients of this honour.
of your product or service is that it value for the money we receive, and we must be diligent to make sure
is cheaper than anything else, you that our hard-earned dollars bring us the quality we want in our lives.
will either have short-term success As you go through your day today, evaluate worth as opposed to cost.
or always be struggling to keep Today’s the day!
your costs down. 

Here in the global economy
of the 21st century, it is not hard
to find a multitude of people who
are willing to work for less money
than you may be. I would rather
justify my price with value than
apologize for low quality. In my
personal and professional life, I
have found that when I pay for
quality products or services, it may
be uncomfortable at first, but I am
always grateful I looked at quality
versus price in the long term. Any
time I settle for cheaper services
or products, I generally come to
suffer the consequences in the long
run. Just because something’s more
expensive, doesn’t make it higher
quality, but when something is
significantly cheaper, it is invariably
of low quality.

As an author, speaker,
TV and movie producer, or
columnist, I strive to never be
the least expensive alternative
for those I serve. Instead, I strive
to be a valuable asset in their
lives and careers. When we seek
out a surgeon, airline pilot, or
babysitter, we invariably think
of quality before price. A lower-
quality alternative in these areas
can be disastrous. However,
anything worth doing is worth
doing with excellence. 

Any component of your life
that does not function with quality
will eventually impact every area
of your life. It’s important to
make sure that when you pay for
quality, you get it. If you’re not
willing to make an investment
in quality, you may want to wait
until you can. My wife Crystal and
I had a 15-year-old Pontiac that
we paid a few hundred dollars
for. We drove that car, known as
“The Green Dog”—now famously
immortalized in several of my

66 BUSINESS TRAVEL

BY
ONG XIANG

HONG

HANGZHOU

Due
to the ongoing
COVID-19 pandemic, please
check the latest government
advisory before travelling.
Observe all restrictions and
preventive measures if you
absolutely need to

travel.

F Famed for its political power in southern China. industry, agriculture, and textiles. one of China's most popular trav-
natural Today, Hangzhou is It is considered an important el destinations year-round. The
scenery, the political, economic and manufacturing base and logistics West Lake is undoubtedly the
Hangzhou has cultural centre of Zhejiang hub for coastal China. It is also most renowned landmark, noted
been province. Its role as port has one of China’s most high-tech for the scenic beauty that blends
immortalised been ceded to Shanghai, but it cities, with e-commerce giant naturally with many famous
by countless has taken advantage of being Alibaba headquartered in the city, historical and cultural sites.
poets and artists. Sitting at the situated in the Yangtze Delta to alongside major companies like The "Ten West Lake Prospects"
head of Hangzhou Bay, bolster its development. Panasonic, IBM, and Motorola. selected from the most frequently
Hangzhou grew to prominence as Hangzhou's economy has The subtropical monsoon visited attractions around the
the southern terminus of the rapidly developed, with many climate contributes to varied sea- lake give travellers a panoramic
Grand Canal, and was the seat of diverse sectors such as light sonal scenery, making Hangzhou view of the city’s highlights.

67

GETTING IN connected with China’s high- Corporation of Hong Kong. The Touring the city, especially
speed rail network. High-speed fare is relatively cheap – around around the West Lake by bike
Hangzhou Xiaoshan trains connect Hangzhou with 2 to 9 renminbi per trip. City is the option of many locals and
International Airport (IATA: neighbours Shanghai and buses connect areas not served by tourists. Just register a regular
HGH) serves domestic and Nanjing, as well as major cities the metro, costing around 1 to 4 Hangzhou Transportation
international flights, but further afield like Wuhan, Beijing, renminbi per trip. If paying with Smart Card, and one can easily
an option with even more Shenzhen, and Hong Kong. the Hangzhou Transportation rent a bike. The rental sites are
connections is via Shanghai’s Smart Card (similar to the Oyster easily accessible along the street,
Pudong International Airport GETTING AROUND card in London or the Octopus near scenic spots and busy pas-
(IATA: PVG). Hangzhou has an extensive card in Hong Kong), passengers senger transport hubs, and some
metro system, operated by MTR enjoy 50 percent off fares. are even open for 24 hours.
As a major metropolis,
Hangzhou is also well

SEE AND DO

Hangzhou's most famous and historic relics, and it has Qing Dynasty gave the lake its forth looking for them, simply
scenic sight is without doubt also been among the most famous 10 Scenes of the West spend a clear day wandering
Xi Hu, or the West Lake. It important sources of inspiration Lake, but they are often seasonal the circumference of the lake
has influenced poets and for Chinese garden designers, as (like Snowfall Over the Broken and the causeways, take a ferry
painters throughout Chinese well as those in Japan and Korea. Bridge). Rather than make a to the islands, and you will
history for its natural beauty Emperor Kangxi of the checklist and walking back and probably cover most of the sites.

BEAUTY SPOTS AROUND WEST LAKE

BROKEN BRIDGE LEIFENG PAGODA
This is the most well-known
bridge among numerous bridges YANG CAUSEWAY YUE FEI TEMPLE Originally built in the year
over West Lake. Aside from the Yang Causeway includes Qu This is a temple built in honour of 977, all that remains of the
classic view across the lake, the Garden (or Qu Courtyard), which Yue Fei, a legendary general of the original pagoda is the crumbling
legend of Xu Xian and Lady is the most popular spot to see Song dynasty who fought against foundation. A totally new
White Snake brings the ancient lotus blossoms in the late spring to the Jurchens, after the capital of pagoda, built in 2000, offers a
bridge to life. early summer. China moved south to Hangzhou. great view of the city skyline.

THE GRAND CANAL ZHEJIANG CUISINE

The Grand Canal, linking Hangzhou and Beijing, is a feat of engineering As capital of Zhejiang province, it is no surprise that
comparable to the Great Wall. While no longer used for heavy commercial Hangzhou is also a hub for one of China’s Eight Culinary
trade, boating on the old Canal is one of the best ways to get a panoramic Traditions. In general, Zhejiang cuisine is not greasy
view of the landscape of riverine Hangzhou, which includes ancient but has a fresh and soft flavour with a mellow fragrance.
dwellings, stone bridges of traditional designs and historical relics. Famous dishes include beggar’s chicken, fish stewed in
vinegar, and fried shrimps with tea leaves.

68 LIFESTYLE DIETING MISTAKES

BY TO AVOID AMIDST COVID-19
JORDAN

LOW

S o the threat of LACKING FRUITS snacking is important as it helps fuel our body and energise us,
COVID-19 is excess snacking and unhealthy snacking may take a severe toll on
slowly but Fresh fruit may not be as easy to our diet.
surely being come by when under lockdown,
contained. but it is not impossible. These SHUTDOWN THE SWEETS
Lockdowns are nutritious snacks are vital during
on the way to being lifted, but a time like this. Fortunately, It is very easy to grab a cookie or chocolate bar, but it very tough
strict rules and regulations are many sellers now offer delivery to shed all those extra kilos. Sugar does no good for our body;
still in place in many locations services, shipping freshly plucked excess sugar leads to fat accumulation, and this is the kind of fat
throughout the world. While we fruits straight to the doorstep. that is not easy to lose.
can now go out and resume at
least a portion of our pre- BAD BINGING AVOID THE OILS
pandemic lives, for a large
number of people, staying safe at Between endless calls, lying Fried foods are a guilty pleasure. Very easy to make, and finger-
home is still the preferred option. back on your couch and staring licking delicious. However, they are very unhealthy. Even air-fried
Unfortunately, the at your laptop, we take multiple foods are not as healthy as other alternatives. Try to avoid these
convenience of online delivery snack breaks. And while kinds of food as much as possible.
and e-groceries can lead to a
rather unhealthy lifestyle. We
are already being encouraged
not to exercise outdoors or at
public gyms; add to that the
convenience of getting food
delivered to us, and we have a
recipe for disaster.
Here are a few tips to avoid
getting too out of shape as we
huddle ourselves at home:

CARB OVERLOAD

Many might have stocked-up
on long-lasting foods such as
instant noodles, chips, and
whatnot. This is understandable
due to the panic cased by the
pandemic. However, excess
carb consumption could lead to
weight-gain; especially when you
aren’t getting enough exercise.
Also, carbs get digested too soon,
leaving you hungry to soon,
which compels you to reach out
for another snack.

LIQUID CALORIES HURT

Stocked up on cola drinks, fizzy
sodas and store-bought juices? It
would be a good idea to practice
portion control. Most of these
drinks are laden with calories;
some even come with added
sugar that could completely
derail your weight-loss journey.

69

BOOK MUSIC MOVIE

THE WINNER BY DAVID BALDACCI OLD BLUE EYES THE COMEBACK TRAIL

T he Winner is a novel brimming BY WAYLON PAYNE Cast: Robert De Niro, Tommy Lee Jones, Morgan Freeman
with suspense-filled roller-coaster
action from one of the world's O ld Blue Eyes is arguably the T he Comeback Trail is an upcoming
master storytellers, David Baldacci. It crowning moment within Waylon American crime comedy film
features LuAnn Tyler as a single parent Payne’s album titled “Blue Eyes, written and directed by George
striving to escape a life of endless poverty. The Harlot, The Queer, The Pusher & Me”. Gallo. It is a remake of the 1982 film of the
Then a mysterious Mr Jackson makes her The tracks within the album itself tells a same name by Harry Hurwitz. The premise
an offer he thinks no one can refuse: a progressive story about life, suffering, and features a film producer in debt to the mob
guarantee to be the winner of the $100 moving on. It makes you believe that Payne is finances a badly written Western movie in
million lottery. But LuAnn won't do it. thinking of someone who both may have the hopes of the production killing its aging
Less than twenty-four hours later, she is contributed to his initial downward spiral, yet star, so that he can pay off his debt with the
fighting for may have also saved him by understanding actor's insurance policy. With an all-star cast
her life and him and offering love. Old Blue Eyes’ sombre
running from tone caps the album off with a sad but such as
a false murder satisfying conclusion. this, one
charge. can
Jackson's expect to
offer, and its be
condition that whole-
she leave the heartedly
country enter-
forever, seems tained.
her only hope.

NSCEVIEENRCMEIBNYDPRTOHFEESBSO#RLLLU*KCEKO'SN,EIHLLERE'S THE THUNDERBOLT FANTASY OST KINDRED

I n his fascinating and thought-provok- BY HIROYUKI SAWANO Cast: Tamara Lawrance, Jack Lowden,
ing new book, Professor Luke O'Neill, Edward Holcroft, Chloe Pirrie
one of the leading voices of authority D o you want to really get your blood
during the COVID-19 pandemic, grapples with pumping? Then Hiroyuki Sawano is K indred is a 2020 British horror
life's biggest questions and tells us what science your man. This Japanese composer feature film about a young
has to say about them. Covering topics from has become synonymous with giant mecha and pregnant woman who suspects her
global pandemics to gender, addiction to massive, uplifting, and epic music scores. dead boyfriend’s family want her unborn
euthanasia, Luke's trademark easy wit and Thunderbolt Fantasy is a unique show that baby. It is being directed by Joe Marcanto-
clever pop-culture references deconstruct the mainly involves glove-puppetry. Most might nio, making his feature debut. Despite being
science to make complex questions accessible. wonder how such puppets can re-enact epic directed, and featuring relatively unknown
Arriving at science's definitive answers to some fight scenes. The answer is to simply add players in the movie scene, the film has been
of the most music by Sawano. No matter the scene, described as a “psychological thriller
controversial Sawano’s music can turn even the most
topics human mundane into mind-blowing action. rippling
beings have to with
grapple with, suspense”;
Never Mind and holds
the B#ll*ocks plenty of
is a celebra- promise
tion of science for horror
and hard facts seekers
in a time of looking for
fake news and a good
sometimes time.
unhelpful
groupthink.

70 SEEN AND HEARD

ASIA PACIFIC ENTREPRENEURSHIP AWARDS 2020, VIETNAM

T hirty-five outstanding Vietnamese business leaders and organisations were honoured at the recently concluded Asia Pacific Enterprise
Awards 2020, held in Ho Chi Minh City. With the theme of 'Accelerating Growth Beyond Borders', over 200 attendees were present at
the by-invitation only awards ceremony in Vietnam, comprising of industry leaders and dignitaries.

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D uring this pandemic following the unruly street demonstrations the process. We grew up believing that the
there have been many in recent years; but make no mistake – United States is the great saviour: without
campaigns and efforts they began long before the 1997 handover. whom, the world will descend into chaos
by individuals and perpetuated by the evil Russians (and
groups to promote and One must never forget that one of the lately, the Chinese).
support local products most influential military strategists of all
and services. time – Sun Tzu, was Chinese. It’s a running joke in Hollywood, that
Just as important, and often neglected, is if you are cast as the Chinese ambassador,
the local media. It was Sun Tzu who said that the you are going to play the villain.
Any fan of TVB, the Hong Kong most glorious of victories, is to win a
entertainment mainstay, would notice war without firing a single shot. Indeed, This is why it is important that we
three constant elements in all their recent the wars of today are being played out save our local media.
drama productions – a certain ginseng in newspapers, on televisions, and in big
drink brand, a massage chair, and the flag budget movies. Our local media are dying. Besides
of China. having laws that continue to encourage
It is an open secret that to contain the But the Chinese are not the only self-censorship, newspapers and TV
independence movement in Hong Kong, disciples of the great Sun Tzu. stations are facing existential threats
the Chinese government sought to control brought about by the Internet.
the media and other cultural influences and The Americans have perfected the
influencers within the special administrative art of controlling your mind and your Some say that it is about time they
region. This includes, allegedly, planting thoughts, long before Chairman Mao get disrupted. That the media should
its own operatives to take over the prescribed the Cultural Revolution. be treated no differently from any other
management of the highly popular TVB. business. Perhaps that is true – but as any
These efforts may have intensified All of us grew up watching Hollywood student of history will tell you – the fall of
movies about patriotic American nations are always preceeded by a fall of
presidents and troops, who not only their media.
rescued their country from marauding
intruders, flying aliens and hostile zombies Let’s support our local media just
– but also saved the rest of the world in as we support our local products and
services. That includes our newspapers
(or their websites), TV stations, radio
channels, and yes, magazines like this one.

As they say, there are three versions
of truth: your truth, their truth and the
truth. When your source of news and
information is limited to either CNN or
CCTV, it will be too late for the truth and
your truth.