Latest news with #PanPacificHotel
Daily Mail
4 days ago
- Sport
- Daily Mail
Why I believe now is the right time for Newcastle to sell Alexander Isak... CRAIG HOPE inside Eddie Howe's Singapore briefing
On floor 22 of the Pan Pacific Hotel in downtown Singapore, as Eddie Howe spoke for the first time about his want-away star striker Alexander Isak, it felt like the reality of the situation for and their supporters was crashing all the way to the gilded lobby below. You see, for Isak to stay at Newcastle, he will need a fat new contract as a minimum.
New York Times
4 days ago
- Sport
- New York Times
Alexander Isak is not with Newcastle in Singapore but his future is dominating their pre-season tour
Eddie Howe's words belied the reality. Alexander Isak was not in the room on the 22nd floor of the luxurious Pan Pacific Hotel — and, more importantly, he is not even here in Singapore at the start of Newcastle United's three-match Asian tour — yet he dominated Saturday's entire 15-minute news conference. Advertisement 'The feeling during pre-season has been as good as any other,' Howe said. 'So I don't think we're distracted. We're here, we're focused, and we're working hard.' The Isak situation is beyond a distraction now, though. That solitary issue has consumed what was already a frustrating and disruptive summer for Newcastle. As much as Howe may want the narrative to shift, until it is categorically confirmed that his Swedish star is either staying or going, that simply will not happen. Someone who rarely over-answers when speaking to the media, it was even Howe who introduced the word 'distracted' into the room. He did so after appearing to conclude an answer — the press officer alongside him was already starting to invite the next question — before hastily jumping back in to stress that an absent Isak was not single-handedly derailing pre-season. In fairness, this was after the seventh question (of eight — almost half of those asked) he had faced concerning the striker. Seemingly, he was yearning for an alternative topic. That plea was largely in vain. Bruno Guimaraes was sitting to Howe's left, but the first eight questions were all directed at the head coach, five directly concerning Isak (including two from The Athletic), and Newcastle's captain was left a peripheral figure. The press officer even felt it necessary to intervene; not to stop further Isak queries, but to ask that some questions be directed his way. Once they were, the second question he had to answer somewhat inevitably included the words 'Isak' and 'distracting'. 'No, not at all,' Guimaraes said, opting not to mention that there has been much chatter among players, backroom staff and club personnel on this trip about a certain Scandinavian who is not among the travelling party from Tyneside. For as the Brazilian midfielder went on to say: 'He's a top player for us. You cannot find some player who scores more than 20 goals in the Premier League.' Advertisement What Guimaraes meant was clear. And that is exactly the problem Newcastle face: how would you go about replacing a world-class striker with no lead-in time? RB Leipzig's Benjamin Sesko has been admired long-term, and Newcastle were actually close to signing him as a teenager in 2022, but a deal for the now 22-year-old Slovenian would not be straightforward. Yes, the profit made on any Isak departure would release significant funds, theoretically making Leipzig's asking price eminently achievable — yet every selling club would know Newcastle had suddenly become cash-rich, leading to further inflation on already sky-high prices. Although nobody at Newcastle wanted to admit that Hugo Ekitike of Eintracht Frankfurt would have been viewed as Isak's long-term successor, ideally after playing for at least a year alongside the Swede, that was at least part of the rationale behind trying to go big on the Frenchman — who has since ended up at Liverpool. The preference was always for Isak's replacement to be acquired before he left St James' Park, to lessen Newcastle's sense of desperation and to prevent selling clubs holding them to ransom. That is why top centre-forward targets have continued to be tracked — the club's recruitment department have had to be ready in case Isak were to go. Newcastle have tried and failed to acquire multiple top targets this summer — Bryan Mbeumo, Joao Pedro, Dean Huijsen, Liam Delap and James Trafford, as well as Ekitike — and have only signed Anthony Elanga. Money would alleviate some problems they have faced (albeit their disciplined wage structure is not about to be ripped up), but not the lack of pulling power they have relative to the elite rivals they aspire to emulate. Of course, that assumes Isak will depart, which in itself is far from certain. On the balance of probabilities, it may even remain the less likely outcome. Advertisement Howe maintains that he is 'confident' Isak will be at Newcastle come the start of the season in three weeks' time — the head coach was less convincing in his delivery than he was after last Saturday's 4-0 friendly defeat away to Scottish campions Celtic, however, responding to The Athletic by quipping that we were 'trying to put words into my mouth' — while sources at the top of the club are still adamant that the striker is 'not for sale'. Yet, after the curious events of the past seven days, that stance does not feel quite as absolute as it did just two weeks ago. Even Howe acknowledged that Newcastle have 'a decision to make'. Most specifically, the club's board may have a decision to make, given Howe suggested that while he would offer 'an opinion', such a call would 'ultimately' be out of his hands due to 'the money involved'. The inference was that a British-record deal for Isak is not entirely implausible — Newcastle would likely demand a figure north of the £120million ($161.5m) Liverpool have communicated they would be willing to pay — though that would require an actual bid to be made. No formal offer has arrived as yet and, although reports have claimed the champions are readying one, that eventuality does not appear inexorable. Which makes Isak's actions peculiar. Yes, he has been nursing a minor thigh injury, which forced him to leave the training field early on Monday and is the reason being given by the club for his non-appearance here ahead of Sunday's match with Arsenal and for the tour's other two games in South Korea. But as The Athletic reported on Thursday, sources, speaking anonymously as they were not authorised to do so publicly, indicated the player favoured being omitted amid his uncertain future. Usually, such a drastic step is taken by players who have already seen their clubs reject offers for them. That is not the case here, so the suspicion has to be that Isak has been given a strong hint that Liverpool (or someone else) will follow through with an offer, otherwise he has damaged his relationship with Newcastle supporters and affected the team's preparations for the 2025-26 campaign to agitate for a transfer that was never actually there for him. Advertisement Howe insisted that he has 'welcomed players back into the group' before, even once they have indicated their desire to leave, but he has never done so with a striker of Isak's status — one who is coveted by the very best clubs in the world. The head coach's empathy and excellent track record suggest he can rise to the challenge, but it is another huge headache he could do without during a summer already full of them. This commercially-driven trip is supposed to be about showcasing that Newcastle are expanding their support in East Asia, yet the whole tour is being overshadowed by the star who is conspicuous by his absence.
Business Times
14-07-2025
- Business
- Business Times
Singapore boosts support for Timor-Leste as it prepares to join Asean
[SINGAPORE] Singapore will step up its support of Timor-Leste's development of its government's capacity, as the region's youngest nation prepares to join Asean as a full member. The upgraded Singapore-Timor-Leste Asean Readiness Support (Stars) package, known as the enhanced Stars (eStars) package, will offer tailored assistance to help the South-east Asian nation meet requirements to join key Asean economic agreements. This was announced by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Monday (Jul 14) at a luncheon for visiting Timor-Leste President Xanana Gusmao. Gusmao is on an official four-day visit to Singapore, more than a decade after his first as prime minister in 2013. He received a ceremonial welcome on Jul 14 before meeting President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. Speaking at the lunch held at the Pan Pacific Hotel, Wong said the refreshed package will also include training aligned with Timor-Leste's national development priorities, as well as leadership development programmes and scholarships for its future leaders. Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste Xanana Gusmao (right) was hosted to an official lunch by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong at Pan Pacific Singapore on Jul 13. PHOTO: ST The eStars package, which runs from July 2025 to December 2028, will offer wider access to Asean-related training courses and expertise to support Timor-Leste's integration into the regional grouping. The first iteration of the Stars initiative formally began in 2022. A NEWSLETTER FOR YOU Friday, 8.30 am Asean Business Business insights centering on South-east Asia's fast-growing economies. Sign Up Sign Up Addressing Gusmao, PM Wong said: 'Timor-Leste's upcoming accession to Asean is a significant milestone, both for your country and for Asean. 'Singapore looks forward to welcoming you warmly to the Asean family. And we will continue to stand with you on this journey.' Speaking at the same event, Gusmao thanked Singapore for its support over the years, particularly in helping Timor-Leste prepare for Asean membership. He cited the training provided to Timorese civil servants in areas such as negotiation and policy writing, describing it as 'a real difference' that reflects cooperation 'measured not in words, but in actions'. Timor-Leste, with a population of 1.3 million, formally applied to join the regional grouping in 2011. It received in-principle endorsement in May, and its accession is expected to be formalised at the 47th Asean Summit in October. In his speech, PM Wong noted how Gusmao has long-standing ties with Singapore, and that it is proud to be a partner of Timor-Leste. 'We remember well your many contributions to Timor-Leste's journey – fighting for independence, unifying the country, and guiding your people through the early years of nation-building,' Wong said. He added that Singapore has 'stood in solidarity' with Timor Leste even before its independence. Wong noted that the Republic was among the first countries to participate in a multinational peacekeeping mission led by Australia in 1999. Timor-Leste gained independence in 2002, following a 1999 United Nations-sponsored referendum in which an overwhelming majority voted to break away from Indonesian rule. The vote was marred by violence from pro-integration militias, following decades of unrest and foreign occupation. Over the decade since Timor-Leste gained independence, more than a thousand Singapore personnel have worked alongside the Timorese people to provide humanitarian assistance, build institutions, and support its 'transition to peace and stability', PM Wong said. Bilateral ties between Singapore and Timor-Leste have grown steadily, with Singapore starting its embassy in the capital Dili in 2024 – 'a reflection of its commitment to deeper engagement', Wong said. Economic links between both sides are expanding, and Singapore companies are exploring opportunities in hospitality, real estate and other sectors, said PM Wong. He also noted that direct flights between the two countries have resumed, with a mutual visa waiver agreement implemented in 2024. Even prior to the Stars initiative started in 2022, more than 1,100 Timorese officials since 2002 have participated in courses under the Singapore Cooperation Programme, which is Singapore's flagship platform established in 1992 for technical assistance and capacity building for developing nations. These courses help to build capabilities across a range of areas, from public administration to language and communications. A Ministry of Foreign Affairs statement said President Tharman and PM Wong reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Timor-Leste's development through capacity building programmes, welcoming more Timorese officials to participate in the Singapore Cooperation Programme. As his country moves towards full Asean membership, Gusmao acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasised that regional unity and solidarity are more important than ever in an increasingly unstable world. He noted how Singapore's development discipline and clarity of purpose was an example to nations, not only across the region but around the world. Singapore and Timor-Leste are countries of different cultures and histories, but both share a common spirit that their futures must be shaped by their people, said Gusmao. He also spoke about how both nations are diverse and multicultural, and said it was inspiring to see how Chinese, Malay, Indian and Eurasian communities coexist harmoniously in Singapore. Similarly, he shared how Timor-Leste draws strength from its indigenous roots, Portuguese legacy, and its many languages and traditions. 'This diversity is not a weakness. It is a source of unity, a quiet strength that holds our societies together,' he said. He said there is potential to deepen bilateral cooperation with Singapore, in areas such as tourism, education, infrastructure and investment. Highlighting Timor-Leste's natural beauty, from mountain ranges to tropical beaches rich in marine biodiversity, Gusmao said his country's Blue Economy strategy underscores its commitment to sustainability. 'We welcome partnerships that align with that vision. Not just investment, but collaboration, knowledge-sharing and mutual growth,' he said. PM Wong also thanked Gusmao and the government of Timor-Leste for a gift of 60 sandalwood saplings for Singapore's 60th year of independence. These saplings, he said, are a powerful symbol of how both countries can grow and thrive together in the years ahead – both bilaterally and in Asean. 'I assure you that Singapore will take good care of the saplings and make sure they grow into strong and sturdy trees; befitting of the enduring friendship between our two countries,' he said. THE STRAITS TIMES
Straits Times
14-07-2025
- Business
- Straits Times
Singapore boosts support for Timor-Leste as it prepares to join Asean
Find out what's new on ST website and app. The upgraded Singapore-Timor-Leste Asean Readiness Support package will offer tailored assistance to help the nation meet requirements to join key Asean economic agreements. SINGAPORE – Singapore will step up its support of Timor-Leste's development of its government's capacity, as the region's youngest nation prepares to join Asean as a full member. The upgraded Singapore-Timor-Leste Asean Readiness Support (Stars) package, known as the enhanced Stars (eStars) package, will offer tailored assistance to help the South-east Asian nation meet requirements to join key Asean economic agreements. This was announced by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on July 14 at a luncheon for visiting Timor-Leste President Xanana Gusmao. Mr Gusmao is on an official four-day visit to Singapore, more than a decade after his first as prime minister in 2013. He received a ceremonial welcome on July 14 before meeting President Tharman Shanmugaratnam and Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. Speaking at the lunch held at the Pan Pacific Hotel, Mr Wong said the refreshed package will also include training aligned with Timor-Leste's national development priorities, as well as leadership development programmes and scholarships for its future leaders. Prime Minister of the Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste Xanana Gusmao was hosted to an official lunch by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong at Pan Pacific Singapore on July 13. ST PHOTO: SHINTARO TAY The eStars package, which runs from July 2025 to December 2028, will offer wider access to Asean-related training courses and expertise to support Timor-Leste's integration into the regional grouping. The first iteration of the Stars initiative formally began in 2022. Addressing Mr Gusmao, PM Wong said: 'Timor-Leste's upcoming accession to Asean is a significant milestone, both for your country and for Asean. Top stories Swipe. Select. Stay informed. Singapore HSA intensifies crackdown on vapes; young suspected Kpod peddlers nabbed in Bishan, Yishun Singapore Man charged over distributing nearly 3 tonnes of vapes in one day in Bishan, Ubi Avenue 3 Singapore Singapore to train more aviation and maritime officials from around the world Business Singapore's economy sees surprise expansion in Q2 despite US tariff uncertainty: Advance estimate Singapore High Court dismisses appeal of drink driver who killed one after treating Tampines road like racetrack Singapore 18 years' jail for woman who hacked adoptive father to death after tussle over Sengkang flat Singapore Jail, caning for man who had 285 child porn videos, including those that show infants Singapore Three power firms get co-funding to study carbon capture, storage to help Singapore decarbonise 'Singapore looks forward to welcoming you warmly to the Asean family. And we will continue to stand with you on this journey.' Speaking at the same event, Mr Gusmao thanked Singapore for its support over the years, particularly in helping Timor-Leste prepare for Asean membership . He cited the training provided to Timorese civil servants in areas such as negotiation and policy writing, describing it as 'a real difference' that reflects cooperation 'measured not in words, but in actions'. Timor-Leste, with a population of 1.3 million, formally applied to join the regional grouping in 2011. It received in-principle endorsement in May , and its accession is expected to be formalised at the 47th Asean Summit in October. In his speech, PM Wong noted how Mr Gusmao has long-standing ties with Singapore, and that it is proud to be a partner of Timor-Leste. 'We remember well your many contributions to Timor-Leste's journey – fighting for independence, unifying the country, and guiding your people through the early years of nation-building,' Mr Wong said. He added that Singapore has 'stood in solidarity' with Timor Leste even before its independence. Mr Wong noted that the Republic was among the first countries to participate in a multinational peacekeeping mission led by Australia in 1999. Timor-Leste gained independence in 2002, following a 1999 United Nations-sponsored referendum in which an overwhelming majority voted to break away from Indonesian rule. The vote was marred by violence from pro-integration militias, following decades of unrest and foreign occupation. Over the decade since Timor-Leste gained independence, more than a thousand Singapore personnel have worked alongside the Timorese people to provide humanitarian assistance, build institutions, and support its 'transition to peace and stability', PM Wong said. Bilateral ties between Singapore and Timor-Leste have grown steadily, with Singapore starting its embassy in the capital Dili in 2024 – 'a reflection of its commitment to deeper engagement', Mr Wong said. Economic links between both sides are expanding, and Singapore companies are exploring opportunities in hospitality, real estate and other sectors, said PM Wong. He also noted that direct flights between the two countries have resumed, with a mutual visa waiver agreement implemented in 2024. Even prior to the Stars initiative started in 2022, more than 1,100 Timorese officials since 2002 have participated in courses under the Singapore Cooperation Programme, which is Singapore's flagship platform established in 1992 for technical assistance and capacity building for developing nations. These courses help to build capabilities across a range of areas, from public administration to language and communications. A Ministry of Foreign Affairs statement said President Tharman and PM Wong reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Timor-Leste's development through capacity building programmes, welcoming more Timorese officials to participate in the Singapore Cooperation Programme. As his country moves towards full Asean membership, Mr Gusmao acknowledged the challenges ahead but emphasised that regional unity and solidarity are more important than ever in an increasingly unstable world. He noted how Singapore's development discipline and clarity of purpose was an example to nations, not only across the region but around the world. Singapore and Timor-Leste are countries of different cultures and histories, but both share a common spirit that their futures must be shaped by their people, said Mr Gusmao. He also spoke about how both nations are diverse and multicultural, and said it was inspiring to see how Chinese, Malay, Indian and Eurasian communities coexist harmoniously in Singapore. Similarly, he shared how Timor-Leste draws strength from its indigenous roots, Portuguese legacy, and its many languages and traditions. 'This diversity is not a weakness. It is a source of unity, a quiet strength that holds our societies together,' he said. He said there is potential to deepen bilateral cooperation with Singapore, in areas such as tourism, education, infrastructure and investment. Highlighting Timor-Leste's natural beauty, from mountain ranges to tropical beaches rich in marine biodiversity, Mr Gusmao said his country's Blue Economy strategy underscores its commitment to sustainability. 'We welcome partnerships that align with that vision. Not just investment, but collaboration, knowledge-sharing and mutual growth,' he said. PM Wong also thanked Mr Gusmao and the government of Timor-Leste for a gift of 60 sandalwood saplings for Singapore's 60th year of independence. These saplings, he said, are a powerful symbol of how our two countries can grow and thrive together in the years ahead – both bilaterally and in Asean. 'I assure you that Singapore will take good care of the saplings and make sure they grow into strong and sturdy trees; befitting of the enduring friendship between our two countries,' he said.
Korea Herald
07-07-2025
- Business
- Korea Herald
BELLUSTAR TOKYO, A Pan Pacific Hotel, Awarded 10th Place in Best City Hotel Category in Asia Pacific Region!
Determined to further improve service having received this honor at Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025 TOKYO, July 7, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BELLUSTAR TOKYO, A Pan Pacific Hotel (Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo; General Manager: Katsushi Nishikawa), was awarded 10th place among Japan's Best City Hotels in the Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025, which celebrates the best in travel in the Asia Pacific region. Travel + Leisure is the most influential travel magazine in the world. Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025, organized by Travel + Leisure South East Asia, Hong Kong and Macau, annually recognizes facilities and services that will become a part of this area's travel legacy in such categories as City Hotels, Beach Island + Upcounty Hotels, Hotel Spas, Hotel Pools and General Managers based on votes from editors and expert contributors from across the region. This is the second year in a row that BELLUSTAR TOKYO, A Pan Pacific Hotel, has received this accolade since it opened its doors two years ago. BELLUSTAR TOKYO, A Pan Pacific Hotel, which opened in 2023 and welcomes its second anniversary this year, has devoted itself to enhancing its presence and as a result has received numerous prominent awards in that time. On behalf of everyone at BELLUSTAR TOKYO, A Pan Pacific Hotel, I would like to express our sincere gratitude for receiving this distinguished award from Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025. It is truly gratifying and humbling to have been bestowed with this honor, which would not have been possible without the patronage of our guests and the efforts of our associates who show the utmost commitment in their day-to-day responsibilities. As a luxury hotel in the heart of Tokyo, our mission is to offer a sophisticated and elegant stay experience that meets the demands of customers from Japan and abroad. Invigorated by the reception of this award, we will endeavor to fulfill this mission by further improving the quality of service we provide and by presenting our guests with Japanese omotenashi, or hospitality, that they will remember long after their visit has ended. We humbly request their continued support as we strive to meet their every expectation. BELLUSTAR TOKYO, A Pan Pacific Hotel, is a luxury hotel in the heart of Tokyo where guests can enjoy special spaces secluded from the bustle below. Unique to the property are its spacious guest rooms on the 39th floor and above that incorporate elements of Japanese culture and offer panoramic views of city. The topmost floors feature a restaurant with uniquely creative gourmet meals in a one-of-a-kind space, a spa for guests to experience the bounty of Japan's soil, and the Sky Private Villa, which houses five penthouse suites, providing guests a relaxing time to return to oneself surrounded by a stunning view on all sides. Location: Tokyu Kabukicho Tower, Floors 18 & 39-47, 1-29-1 Kabukicho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo, Japan Telephone: 81 3 6233 8800 (Main) Official website:
