(Singapore, Nov 1) On October 30, Fortune Times hosted the inaugural “Bridging Summit” at the Four Seasons Hotel Singapore to celebrate its 20th anniversary. Amid rapid advancements in digital transformation and AI, Fortune Times reaffirmed its commitment to facilitating future collaborations within ASEAN through high-quality, trustworthy content. Established in Singapore in 2004, this prominent Chinese business media platform has long served as a bridge between China and ASEAN, fostering cross-regional connections through its influential reporting.
Annie Song, founder and editor-in-chief of Fortune Times opened the forum by emphasizing that trust remains essential to content delivery, especially as Fortune Times transitions from print to digital. Upholding the platform’s credibility and influence, she noted, is fundamental to its mission as it continues to lead in regional engagement.
The “Bridging Summit” spotlighted three main themes, each representing different facets of “bridges” – their functionality, economic significance, and media’s role as a connector. Through exhibitions, forums, and awards, the event underscored Fortune Times’ dedication to enhancing connection and cooperation across ASEAN.
ASEAN Business & Connections
The forum began with discussions on the economic impact of bridges on urban development. China, a global leader in bridge innovation, boasts over a million modern bridges. China National Bridge Master Mr. Xu Gongyi delivered a keynote on China’s sustainable and innovative approaches to bridge design, reflecting the country’s commitment to leadership in infrastructure.
Two panel discussions followed: “Supply Chain Strategy: A ‘Bridge’ for Chinese Ventures in ASEAN” and “Artificial Intelligence: A Bridge for Sustainable Urban Development.” Moderated by Prof Alvin Shen and Ms. Xue Hua, respectively, these discussions addressed supply chain dynamics, sustainable energy, and AI’s role in urban growth. The panels provided fresh insights for Chinese companies expanding overseas, encouraging urban growth and financial integration to advance sustainable economic development in the region.
“Building Heart-to-Heart Bridges” Photography Contest
In line with the summit’s theme, Fortune Times partnered with Wuhan International Communications Center to launch the inaugural “Bridges and Cities” International Photography Contest. Designed to inspire global audiences to reflect on connections between cities and bridges, the contest captured stories of architecture and humanity, encouraging friendship, cultural exchange, and economic vitality.
Since its announcement on July 6, the contest received over 700 submissions worldwide, including creative AI-enhanced works from young participants that captivated judges and audiences alike. Luo Feiyang from Wuhan won the SGD 2,000 grand prize for his piece “Six Bridges in One Frame,” with 35 other notable entries showcased at the summit. Weichai Power Singapore also exhibited its 6M33 Diesel Engine, a high-power, low-carbon innovation supporting sustainable infrastructure.
Introduction of the Friendship Bridge Award
The evening concluded with the Fortune Times Awards, recognizing companies and business leaders for achievements in growth, sustainability, and innovation. Established in 2015, the awards are among Asia’s most prestigious accolades for the Chinese business community. Honorees included:
- Emerging Business Leader Award: Andi TJONG, Country Head of BG&E, Director at Royal Crown Investment and TY Enterprises
- Most Inspiring Entrepreneur Award: NG Tse Meng, Founder and Chairman of Ruifeng Wealth Management
- Most Promising SME Award: Grace QIN, Managing Director of Chromatic Media and Larry Jewelry
This year also saw the introduction of the Friendship Bridge Award, presented to the Singapore Chamber of Commerce and Industry in China for strengthening Sino-Singaporean business ties. Ms Dorothy Seet received the award on behalf of SingCham.
Looking Ahead, New Business Model
Fortune Times is set to launch the Chinese Pinnacle Club in February, a premier business networking platform. CEO Chris Chiang introduced the club as a Fortune Times-branded initiative aimed at uniting members around the values of “wealth” and “wisdom” through enriching social and networking events.
In the media, the pictorial is a good way to deliver editorial. The evening gala culminated with a special family tribute. Melvyn Goh, CEO of Family Fortune Times, unveiled a cherished family photo of Mr. Tan Dib Jin, a third-generation descendant of Mr. Tan Kah Kee, and his son, Mr. Daryl Tan, exchanging a symbolic red cup. This image honors Tan Kah Kee’s 150th birth anniversary and represents the enduring values passed through generations, echoing Family Fortune Times’ commitment to heritage.
The Bridge Summit is sponsored by Weichai Power Singapore, Editor-in-Chief Annie Song closed the celebration with a toast, joined by ASEAN diplomatic representatives, including Her Excellency Ureerat Chareontoh, Ambassador of the Royal Thai Embassy to Singapore, and other distinguished guests, including international investor Jim Rogers and bridge engineering master Xu Gongyi. Together, they celebrated a shared vision of prosperity and trust, marking the beginning of new partnerships and a promising future.
