breaking news | May 24, 2013

Philippines - Dan Brown's new book "Inferno" have miffed officials Thursday after calling Manila as the "gates of hell" amidst the government's ongoing hard efforts to boost tourism.

Singapore – The University of Melbourne has sponsored Baybeats 2013, a music festival slated to take place in Singapore in June.

Australia - HSBC has sponsored the British & Irish Lions' rugby tour to Australia.

Singapore – Global financial services provider Barclays has sponsored Bare Your Sole 2013, a barefoot walk initiative that supports impoverished children and adults.

Regional - MediaCorp appoints new MD, Regal Hotels International revamps for MICE plus more.

France – Coffee brand Nespresso has thrown its corporate weight behind the 66th Cannes Film Festival 2013.

Singapore – Marketing Events got into the thick of action yesterday at the Pink Dot 2013 special preview. Here's what you can expect next month.

Singapore - Absolut Elyx hosted a launch party themed ‘Craft of Perfection’. Here's how a keysmith made the event memorable.

Global - Car brands have a long association with pop culture and like it or hate it Pitbull's "Sexy People" is another example how music blurs the line between auto advertising.

Malaysia – Skincare and cosmetic brand Shizens appoints former senior executive of Boustead Curve to head its advertising and promotions.

Malaysia - A+M unveils the finalists for the eight Agency of the Year and 27 MARKies categories.

Malaysia - One of the biggest complaints among recruiters is the poor command of English among fresh graduates. A+M finds out how the advertising, marketing and communications industries are affected.

Regional – STW expands its Southeast Asian footprint with the launch of Edge Asia, a regional digital advertising network.

Malaysia – In attracting more Gen Y Life Planners, American International Assurance (AIA) has rolled out its Interactive Point-of-Sale app and nationwide campaign.

Regional - After leaving the company in December, Reebonz' ex-global marketing lead is now leading Carlsberg's marketing efforts in China.

Singapore - While I enjoy my share of Kanye West and 50 Cent, what I can't warm to are the rap tunes these government agencies are putting out with their ads. Check out the whole shudder-worthy list here.

Philippines - Supermarket giant Puregold Price Club has partnered with Metrobank to ease banking requirements and help its core market own credit cards.

Role Description - The role will initially be based in Sydney, learning the nuts and bolts of the business.

Regional - Flurry of activity at Zalora as investors bet big on the e-commerce firm's growth in the region. Will this finally turn the company into a profitable one?

Global - Lowe has placed its new global planning director in Singapore to work on its Unilever account.