Jun 11, 2024 | Rankings
In the bustling metropolis of Singapore, where innovation meets tradition, a new generation of dynamic entrepreneurs is reshaping the business landscape. These young visionaries are not only redefining success but also challenging norms and inspiring change. From empowering plus-size fashion to revolutionising digital marketing, they are the driving force behind Singapore’s vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem. In this issue, Top 10 of Asia shares its list of Singapore’s top 10 young and dynamic entrepreneurs (presented in no particular order) who are making waves in Singapore and beyond.
Tianwei Liu
Tianwei Liu, a pioneering entrepreneur, has made a lasting impact on the fintech industry. Born in China and finding his true calling in Singapore, he co-founded and serves as the CEO of Xfers. Liu’s mission with Xfers is to revolutionize online seller bank transfers and facilitate seamless financial transactions across Southeast Asia. His journey reflects a commitment to innovation and growth, evidenced by his professional stint at Amazon and his degree from the National University of Singapore. Liu’s dedication to advancing the fintech landscape showcases his vision and drive to make financial services more accessible and efficient in the region.
Pocket Sun
At an early age, Pocket co-founded SoGal Ventures, the first women-led, next-gen venture capital firm investing in world class women and diverse entrepreneurs. In the past few years, SoGal has built a track record of being the earliest and/or the only women investors in multiple billion-dollar companies. Under Pocket’s leadership, SoGal has built a top-performing, high-impact financial institution, a global brand as a strong ally for women entrepreneurs. She has been recognised with numerous awards including Entrepreneur Magazine 100 Most Powerful Women, Forbes Under 30 in VC, Singapore 100 Women in Tech, LinkedIn Top Voices and featured on Wall Street Journal, New York Times, Fortune, Bloomberg, Fast Company and more.
Rani Dhaschainey
At the helm of The Curve Cult, Rani, an ambitious young entrepreneur, is transforming the plus-size fashion landscape in Singapore. Launched in 2015, her brand has become a beacon of empowerment and style for voluptuous women. When the pandemic struck, Rani swiftly transitioned to a digital-first approach, leveraging social media not just to sell but to celebrate every curve and stretch mark. Her savvy use of Instagram and TikTok turned into a branding masterclass, drawing thousands of views and transforming The Curve Cult into a household name among plus-size fashion circles. Rani’s content does more than showcase clothing. It champions body positivity, making her a key advocate in the local fashion scene. Her efforts illustrate the power of digital platforms in modern marketing and the importance of representation in fashion.
Quek Siu Rui
In 2012, Quek Siu Rui embarked on a mission to simplify the buying and selling experience, co-founding Carousell in Singapore. As CEO, Siu Rui has been the driving force behind the startup’s evolution, shaping its growth trajectory and international expansion. His dedication to technology stems from a desire to address real-world challenges, evident in Carousell’s user-centric approach. Drawing from his diverse background in marketing and product management at esteemed companies like Vsee, Ogilvy & Mather, and DBS Vickers, Siu Rui infuses innovation into every aspect of Carousell’s operations. Reflecting on his journey, Siu Rui emphasises the importance of product focus and scalability in building a successful tech venture in Singapore. Carousell’s disruptive impact on the classifieds marketplace underscores his vision and leadership, cementing its status as a trailblazer in the digital commerce realm.
Liyana Sulaiman
Liyana Sulaiman, renowned as the CPTO and Co-Founder of Pollen, leads the charge in revolutionising Asia’s B2B Liquidation marketplace with a sustainable focus. Beyond her entrepreneurial success, Liyana’s influence reverberates through her role as a mentor to budding startups and her pivotal involvement in steering committees for digital transformation initiatives. As a UN Women Singapore Ambassador in STEM, she passionately advocates for inclusivity, echoing her early contributions as a founding board advisor at Girls in Tech Singapore. Liyana’s journey reflects not only her professional prowess but also her unwavering commitment to fostering diversity in the tech sphere. Her multifaceted approach leaves an enduring legacy, inspiring a new generation of leaders to embrace innovation and equity in technology.
Anda Chaudhry
For Anda Chaudhry, shopping for clothes used to be an ordeal, especially as a size 20 in Singapore. The struggle of finding garments that fit properly and didn’t break the bank was all too familiar. However, a vacation to Australia changed everything. In 2021, at just 27 years old, Anda launched WearBums, an all-size inclusive clothing line. Her mission is to recreate the inclusive shopping experience she found abroad, right in Singapore. WearBums is more than fashion. It is about empowerment. It is about making every individual feel seen and celebrated, regardless of size. And for Anda, it is a testament to the transformative power of a positive shopping experience.
Gregory Van
Gregory Van, the CEO and co-founder of Endowus, is transforming wealth management in Asia with a mission to democratize investing. Based in Singapore, Endowus offers a digital platform that merges private wealth with public pension savings, including CPF and SRS. Gregory aims to reduce financial waste and harness untapped talent to minimize costs and enhance returns. His dedication to transparency, innovation and accessibility is setting new industry standards, fostering improved financial literacy and investment opportunities for all. Through Endowus, Gregory is making investing more inclusive, ensuring that everyone has the chance to grow their wealth effectively.
Keith Tan
Keith Tan, the CEO of Crown Digital, is revolutionizing the coffee sector with his innovative creation, ELLA—the first robotic barista in Singapore. ELLA can produce up to 200 gourmet coffee cups per hour, maintaining both quality and consistency. It offers a completely contactless service, where customers can place and pay for their orders via a mobile app. Leveraging deep learning and predictive analytics, ELLA optimizes the entire coffee-making process for a flawless experience. Tan is driven by a mission to democratize access to high-quality coffee, and with ELLA’s impressive performance, he is advancing steadily towards realizing this ambition.
Rachel Lim
Rachel Lim, a Singaporean entrepreneur, has made an enduring impact on the fashion realm. Starting Love, Bonito in 2010, she elevated it from a modest blog shop to a fashion empire worth millions. Rachel embarked on her journey fueled by a love for second-hand clothes, daringly venturing into designing her own creations. Today, Love, Bonito stands as a global phenomenon, backed by substantial investments from across the globe. Her narrative embodies resilience, ingenuity, and unwavering resolve. Initially utilizing her mother’s savings to jumpstart the venture, she exemplified that with dedication and foresight, dreams can materialize into reality. As Love, Bonito flourishes, Rachel Lim stands as a beacon of inspiration for budding entrepreneurs worldwide.
Prakash Somosundram
Prakash Somosundram, the visionary co-founder and CEO of Enjinstarter, spearheads a pioneering platform that is reshaping token launches. Enjinstarter prioritizes fairness and inclusivity through a community-centered ethos. Prakash’s deep understanding of decentralized finance (DeFi) and inventive approaches like decentralized IDOs and liquidity bootstrapping pools distinguish Enjinstarter. His dedication to transparency and empowering the community propels the platform’s advancement in the crypto realm.
Jun 11, 2024 | Enterprises
Co-founded by Rimi Masputeria Mohari and a partner in 2021, Nexgen Solutions Sdn Bhd (Nextgen Solutions) has experienced remarkable growth and notable success stories. With a blend of strategic business insight and technical expertise, Rimi has expertly navigated the company toward achieving ambitious goals. In this interview with Top 10 of Asia, she shares her personal aspirations, career journey, and vision for leaving a lasting legacy through Nexgen Solutions.
An electrical engineer by profession, Rimi Masputeria Mohari has taken a different route towards the achievement of her goals as compared to her peers in the industry. “I have been hugely inspired by my parents who were senior civil servants and they were adamant on the principles of self-independence and the need to build assets. In other words, you are solely responsible for your actions,” says Rimi.
“My career strategy has been to gain exposure within the technical and business side as both go hand-in-hand. I initially started on the technical side before moving into the business side, which is handling business development and working on contracts,” says Rimi.
“My first career role was as a sales engineer after graduation from Universiti Tenaga Nasional Malaysia (UNITEN) in 2002,” recollects Rimi. “I started at the bottom rung as I planned to climb the ladder by gaining knowledge, exposure and building collaborative networks,” explains Rimi.
“I started Nexgen Solutions in 2021 as I had learnt all I could from my exposure in the industry and knew the networks besides having gained sufficient hands-on experience,” says Rimi succinctly. “I was ready to start my own electrical engineering company to further develop myself and to leave a legacy after having been on my 20-year career path.”
The main motivation for co-founding Nexgen Solutions is to build a notable brand and to leave a legacy. “I have a passion for undertaking challenging ventures and I dream big. That is the reason I am in the engineering field as it challenges me,” says Rimi. “The keynote is to strike a balance between success and failure.”
The leadership style at Nexgen Solutions focuses on coaching and empowerment. “I encourage and coach my staff to learn and to build perseverance. There are no shortcuts to success in life and one will certainly need to have diligence and perseverance,” explains Rimi. “The opportunity to learn and possess in-depth knowledge of a particular issue will be lost through the taking of shortcuts which will lead to great setbacks.”
“The industry is competitive with so many established competitors to begin with. As such, in order to enter the market and build our track records, one of the hardest decisions that we took was to enter the market with lower margin without jeopardising our services,” explains Rimi.
“The hiring of suitable employees is another big challenge faced by us. Most of them are not keen to start from the ground and work their way up. Work attitude is another problem,” says Rimi.
“I envision Nexgen Solutions as a preferred service provider of the total engineering solutions specialising in electrical packages that emphasise on safety and reducing power consumption through effective engineering solutions. Although we are a relatively new player, our direction is towards innovation and sustainability practices.”
As for young people just starting in business, Rimi has this to say, “It is not an easy journey to enter into entrepreneurship. The correct mindset including determination and dedication are crucial factors but nonetheless, always dream big and make it happen.”
Jun 11, 2024 | Rankings
Indonesia is home to an impressive number of fashion designers who excel in both haute couture and ready-to-wear collections. From the past to the present, we have seen some of the finest Indonesian designers who have left us in awe of their individual talents and creativity. Here, Top 10 of Asia takes a look at its list of the top ten most inspiring Indonesian fashion designers (presented in random order), highlighting their remarkable diverse and vibrant contributions to the fashion scene in Indonesia.
Tex Saverio
Tex Saverio, the Indonesian fashion luminary, has left an indelible mark on the international fashion landscape. Renowned for his opulent and otherworldly creations, Saverio has adorned luminaries including Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lawrence, and Kim Kardashian. His haute couture label, Tex Saverio Prive and ready-to-wear brand, TEXSAVERIO, epitomize a bold feminine allure, empowering individuals to express themselves with sartorial confidence. Often likened to “the Alexander McQueen of Indonesia,” Saverio continually dazzles audiences with his avant-garde designs, pushing the boundaries of creativity and craftsmanship
Rinaldy A. Yunardi
Rinaldy A. Yunardi is an Indonesian fashion luminary celebrated for his avant-garde accessories and headpieces. With a penchant for pushing boundaries, Yunardi’s creations marry traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge design. His visionary work has graced global runways and adorned celebrities, earning him international acclaim. Renowned for bold shapes and intricate detailing, Yunardi’s designs exude a captivating allure that transcends conventional fashion norms. Collaborations with top designers and brands further attest to his creative prowess and influence in the industry. Rinaldy A. Yunardi continues to captivate audiences with his unparalleled imagination and commitment to redefining the boundaries of fashion.
Denny Wirawan
Since stepping into the spotlight in 2005, Wirawan has consistently curated ready-to-wear collections harmonizing ethnic inspirations with modern flair. Characterized by sleek outlines, his creations frequently integrate indigenous elements, yielding garments that exude both allure and gender-fluid appeal. Nestled in Jakarta, his studio stands as a bastion of creativity and inventive spirit. Through a quarter-century of challenges, Wirawan’s trajectory epitomizes resilience, mastery, and serves as a wellspring of motivation for burgeoning designers.
Toton Januar
Toton Januar, a prominent figure in Indonesian fashion, challenges norms with his gender-fluid designs. Influenced by his mother, a skilled seamstress, he pursued fashion studies at Parsons New School of Design in New York. Establishing his eponymous ready-to-wear brand in 2012, Januar adeptly blends heritage and contemporary elements, preserving femininity. His evocative collections have earned global recognition, securing him a place at Paris Fashion Week. Remarkably, Januar’s label triumphed at the esteemed International Woolmark Prize Asia Regional Final in the Womenswear division, further solidifying his position as a visionary in the fashion realm.
Hengki Kawilarang
Hengki Kawilarang, a renowned fashion designer based in Jakarta, Indonesia, launched his illustrious career in 2001. Known for his signature feminine and glamorous designs, Kawilarang’s creations ensure every woman feels like a diva. His distinctive style is characterized by the use of luxurious elements such as crystals, feathers, and other sparkling accents, setting his work apart in the fashion world. Over the years, his exceptional craftsmanship has garnered a loyal clientele that includes numerous celebrities and high-society women, who turn to him for their most memorable and elegant attire. Kawilarang’s dedication to glamour and elegance continues to make waves in the fashion industry.
Catherine Njoo
Catherine Njoo, an Indonesian fashion luminary, captivates with her blend of tradition and modernity. Rooted in sustainability, her designs reflect timeless elegance. With a commitment to ethical practices, Njoo pioneers’ eco-friendly materials and empowers local artisans. Each piece, from intricate gowns to chic ensembles, tells a story of craftsmanship and sophistication. Beyond design, she advocates for diversity, celebrating individual beauty. As Indonesia’s fashion ambassador, Njoo leaves an indelible mark on the global stage, inspiring with her creativity and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Hendy Huang
Hendy Huang, the Indonesian fashion virtuoso, melds heritage with contemporary flair, crafting timeless pieces that grace global runways. With meticulous attention to detail, he weaves intricate embellishments and impeccable tailoring into each garment. Beyond aesthetics, Huang champions sustainability and ethical practices, minimizing ecological impact while supporting local artisans. His collections, celebrated for their fusion of tradition and innovation, have earned him acclaim worldwide. As a visionary force, Huang inspires aspiring designers, proving that passion and creativity transcend boundaries, propelling him to the forefront of the fashion scene as Indonesia’s rising icon.
Jenny Tjahyawati
Jenny Tjahyawati, the Indonesian fashion luminary, stands at the forefront of contemporary design with her unparalleled vision and creativity. Renowned for her ability to seamlessly blend traditional Indonesian motifs with modern aesthetics, Tjahyawati’s designs captivate audiences globally. Drawing inspiration from her rich cultural heritage, she infuses her collections with intricate detailing and exquisite craftsmanship, earning her accolades in the fashion industry. With a keen eye for innovation, Tjahyawati continues to push boundaries, redefining Indonesian fashion on the international stage. Her dedication to preserving traditional craftsmanship while embracing modernity cements her status as a true pioneer in the industry, leaving an indelible mark on the world of fashion.
Sebastian Gunawan
Sebastian Gunawan is a prominent figure in the Indonesian fashion industry, renowned for his exquisite designs that blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary elegance. With a career spanning over two decades, he has solidified his position as one of Indonesia’s most celebrated fashion designers. His creations often feature intricate detailing, luxurious fabrics, and impeccable tailoring, reflecting his dedication to perfection. Gunawan’s unique aesthetic has garnered international acclaim, earning him a loyal clientele both at home and abroad. As a visionary in the world of fashion, he continues to inspire with his timeless creations, showcasing the beauty and diversity of Indonesian craftsmanship on the global stage.
Rinda Salmun
Rinda Salmun, the Indonesian fashion icon, seamlessly merges traditional motifs with contemporary flair, captivating audiences worldwide. Renowned for her commitment to sustainability, her designs showcase vibrant colours and intricate craftsmanship, reflecting a deep appreciation for cultural heritage. With an unwavering dedication to ethical practices, Salmun’s collections inspire confidence and celebrate individuality. Through her innovative approach and timeless creations, she has cemented her place as a leader in the global fashion industry, representing the essence of Indonesian style with elegance and grace.
Jun 11, 2024 | Rankings
In this issue, Top 10 of Asia takes a look at its list of the top 10 most admired entrepreneurs in Asia (presented in no particular order) whose extraordinary journeys and accomplishments inspire the masses in profound ways. These outstanding innovators are reshaping their industries while making notable impacts on their societies and the wider economy. Their stories highlight the value of innovation, perseverance, and strategic vision. It is through these characteristics that they have navigated challenges and capitalized on opportunities to establish thriving businesses.
Edward Tirtanata (Indonesia)
From crunching numbers at Ernst & Young to brewing success with Kopi Kenangan, Edward Tirtanata has steeped his career in innovation. As the CEO and co-founder of Indonesia’s booming coffee chain, Kopi Kenangan, he has transformed a modest start-up into one of the nation’s leading F&B brands. His entrepreneurial journey brewed during his tenure at Lewis & Carroll, a premium tea house he launched in 2015. Inspired, he founded Kopi Kenangan in 2017 with a vision to blend traditional coffee culture with modern tech-driven efficiency. Today, this vision continues to thrive, making Edward Tirtanata a household name in Indonesia’s coffee scene.
Pita Limjoenrat (Thailand)
Pita is a remarkable individual whose path to leadership was anything but conventional. Juggling graduate studies in Public Policy at Harvard University and an MBA at MIT, Pita found himself unexpectedly thrust into the role of CEO of Agrifood. Tragedy struck when his father, the company’s founder, passed away, leaving behind a staggering debt of 100 million baht. With determination and grit, Pita took charge, steering the company towards success. Under Pita’s leadership, Agrifood has soared to become the third largest rice bran oil producer in the region. Not stopping there, he has expanded the business into supplements, snacks, and skincare products, all while championing the quality of Thai rice bran oil.
Gitta Amelia (Indonesia)
Gitta Amelia, a graduate of the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, is a beacon of inspiration in the entrepreneurial world. As the founder of EverHaüs, an early-stage venture capital firm in Indonesia, she dedicates herself to empowering young entrepreneurs by providing essential funding, mentorship, and resources. Her involvement doesn’t stop at venture capital; Amelia also influences the fashion and beauty industries, actively shaping their future. Renowned for her innovative spirit and impactful contributions, Amelia motivates countless young business leaders, demonstrating that youth is no obstacle to monumental success.
Kamarul A Muhamed (Malaysia)
Kamarul, the founder and CEO of Aerodyne Group, a drone solutions provider based in Malaysia, holds the top spot globally according to Drone Industry Insights in Germany. He received prestigious accolades such as ‘EY Entrepreneur of The Year 2020 Malaysia’, ‘EY Technology Entrepreneur of The Year 2020 Malaysia’ and ‘SEBA Entrepreneur of The Year 2020’. Over a span of just 6 years, Kamarul transformed Aerodyne from a small 3-person startup in 2014 into a multinational corporation with operations in 35 countries. A recognized TEDx speaker and influential figure in the drone industry, he has shared his insights on AI, Drones, and Industry 4.0 on various platforms worldwide. Trained as an auditor, Kamarul initially worked in London before transitioning to the technology sector upon returning to Malaysia following a decade in the UK. With a passion for exploration, he has visited over 100 countries for both business and leisure purposes.
Ian Ang (Singapore)
In December 2014, Ian Alexander Ang, a former professional esports player, embarked on a mission to revolutionize the gaming experience by crafting the ideal chair for gamers. Little did he and his co-founder, Alaric Choo, realize that this idea would propel them to significant success. Today, Secretlab, Ian’s brainchild, stands as a testament to their commitment and ingenuity. What began as a modest startup has blossomed into a multimillion-dollar enterprise, celebrated for its exceptional quality and comfort. Drawing on his expertise in StarCraft II, Ang has engineered ergonomic chairs tailored to meet the needs of gamers worldwide. As the gaming industry advances, Secretlab adapts alongside it, ensuring that every gamer is equipped with the ultimate gaming throne.
Sarah ShahNor (Malaysia)
Sarah Shahnor, the visionary behind Modvier, Bangsar’s renowned multilabel modest store, embarked on a new journey following a personal health challenge. Struggling with postpartum eczema, she recognized a need for change and thus birthed Cuura, a skincare brand. What began as a solution for her own skin issues blossomed into a sustainable beauty concept, championing the use of exclusively natural ingredients. Through Cuura, Sarah advocates for a shift towards sustainable beauty practices among Malaysians, promoting the adoption of natural, potent ingredients sourced from the bounty of nature. With each product, Cuura not only enhances beauty but also nurtures a conscious lifestyle, aligning with Sarah’s vision for a more sustainable and holistic approach to skincare.
William Utomo (Indonesia)
Indonesian entrepreneur William Utomo co-founded IDN Media, a leading media platform in Indonesia, where he serves as Chief Operating Officer (COO). William manages digital titles and agencies focused on Millennials and Gen Z, aiming to democratize information and positively impact society. IDN Media operates across diverse ecosystems, including digital media sites, the creators’ economy, live streaming, entertainment, and commercial services. Under William’s leadership, the company strives to innovate and adapt to the dynamic media landscape, ensuring it remains relevant and influential in shaping the future of media consumption in Indonesia.
Diajeng Lestari (Indonesia)
Diajeng transitioned from a conventional nine-to-five job to revolutionizing the Indonesian fashion scene with her startup, HijUp, in 2011. The platform, whose name plays on the words “Hijab Up,” akin to “make up or dress up,” was created to cater to the modern Muslim woman, offering attire for various activities. Starting as a modest operation with just two employees, Diajeng’s initiative has blossomed into the largest online marketplace for Muslim fashion. HijUp, which began as Diajeng’s personal search for fashionable yet affordable hijabs, now features collaborations with Indonesia’s top 200 fashion designers, boasts over 70 brands, has introduced a menswear line, and exports collections to 50 countries globally. The brand’s growth includes expansion into digital and print media, serving a comprehensive range of fashion needs.
Jin Xi Cheong (Malaysia)
Jin Xi Cheong, a visionary entrepreneur, leads Poladrone, a drone solutions company revolutionizing the agricultural sector. Poladrone has meticulously surveyed over 300,000 hectares of land across the ASEAN region, delivering invaluable insights and actionable data to farmers and landowners. His innovative approach and strategic vision have established Poladrone as a leader in precision agriculture. The company’s advanced drone solutions facilitate detailed land assessments, crop monitoring, and resource management, optimizing yields and reducing operational costs. Under Cheong’s dynamic leadership, Poladrone is not only advancing agricultural technology but also shaping the future of farming with data-driven solutions and continuous innovation.
Shinta Witoyo Dhanuwardoyo (Indonesia)
Shinta Witoyo Dhanuwardoyo, also known as Shinta Bubu, is a prominent figure in Indonesia’s tech industry. Since founding Bubu.com in 1996, she has been a driving force behind the country’s digital transformation. As CEO, Shinta has steered Bubu.com to become Indonesia’s leading full-service digital agency, offering innovative solutions from design to execution. Her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to technology have cemented her reputation as a trailblazer. Beyond her entrepreneurial endeavors, Shinta’s advocacy and angel investments have nurtured the growth of startups, further solidifying her influence in shaping Indonesia’s digital future.
Jun 11, 2024 | Rankings
Asia is a vibrant hub of emerging talent, particularly in the realm of acting. The region is home to a new generation of actors who are making significant waves in the entertainment industry with their remarkable skills and captivating performances. In this special feature, Top 10 of Asia proudly presents the top ten young acting talents of Asia. This list, arranged in no particular order, highlights the promising careers of these rising stars who are poised to become the future icons of the industry.
Amir Ahnaf (Malaysia)
Amir Ahnaf, hailing from Dungun, Terengganu, swiftly carved out a place for himself in the Malaysian entertainment sphere. Rising as both an actor and model, he garnered attention portraying Kahar in the adrenaline-fueled series “Projek: High Council”. His proficiency in Silat, the traditional martial art, lent credibility to his character, while his musical flair and leadership acumen added layers to his performance. Amir’s artistic voyage remains ongoing, with fans eagerly anticipating his forthcoming endeavours.
Maymay Entrata (Philippines)
Maymay Entrata, a rising star in the Philippine entertainment industry, captivates audiences with her multifaceted talent. Hailing from Camiguin, she shot to fame after winning the reality show “Pinoy Big Brother: Lucky 7” in 2017. Since then, she has flourished as an actress, singer and model, showcasing her versatility and charm. Her endearing personality and unique style have endeared her to fans nationwide. Her notable roles in films and television series, coupled with her hit songs, reflect her growing influence in showbiz. With a promising career trajectory ahead, she continues to inspire aspiring artists with her passion and determination. She embodies the epitome of a modern-day entertainer, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
Prilly Latuconsina (Indonesia)
Prilly Latuconsina, an Indonesian actress and singer, has captivated audiences with her multifaceted talent and charming persona. Rising to prominence in the entertainment industry at a young age, Prilly’s career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. From her early days as a television presenter to her breakthrough roles in popular Indonesian films and television series, she has consistently showcased her versatility and dedication to her craft. Beyond acting, she has also ventured into music, releasing hit singles that have garnered widespread acclaim. With her infectious energy and undeniable talent, she continues to be a beloved figure in Indonesian entertainment, captivating audiences with her performances on both the screen and stage.
Mierul Aiman (Malaysia)
Mierul Aiman, born Mohammad Amirul Aiman Norazman in Putrajaya, Malaysia, is a distinguished Malaysian actor and model. His career in the entertainment industry took off when he won the Hero Remaja 2021 competition. Mierul gained widespread acclaim for his portrayal of Fakhri in the 2023 Astro Originals series “Projek: High Council.” Standing at 178 cm, he has amassed a substantial following, particularly on social media. Mierul Aiman continues to make a significant impact in the entertainment world, captivating audiences with his talent and charisma.
Janella Salvador (Philippines)
Janella Maxine Desiderio Salvador is a versatile Filipino actress and singer. Raised in San Juan, Metro Manila, she hails from an artistic family: her mother, Jenine Desiderio, is a celebrated West End actress and her father, Juan Miguel Salvador, is an Awit Award-winning songwriter. Janella first gained attention representing the Philippines at a world trade fair in Seoul, Korea. Her breakthrough came with the role of Nikki Grace Lim in “Be Careful With My Heart,” where her Taglish catchphrases became iconic. As a Garnier skincare ambassador and a platinum-certified recording artist, she showcased her musical talent. She has starred in notable TV series like “Oh My G!”, “Born for You”, “So Connected” and “The Killer Bride” and portrayed the supervillain Valentina in “Darna.” Her charisma and dedication continue to captivate audiences.
Jarinya Sirimongkolsakul (Thailand)
Jarinya Sirimongkolsakul, widely known as “Kaew,” is a prominent pop singer and actress from Thailand. Her deep-seated love for music emerged early in life, propelling her towards a successful career in the entertainment industry. Kaew is best known as a member of the popular Thai pop trio Faye Fang Kaew (FFK), she has also made a significant impact as an actress. She has showcased her versatility and talent in various dramas and movies, further establishing her presence in the Thai entertainment world. Her dual talent in singing and acting has garnered her a substantial fan base, making her a household name. Kaew’s journey in the entertainment industry is marked by continuous growth and success.
Adhisty Zara (Indonesia)
Adhisty Zara, widely known as Zara, is a celebrated Indonesian actress and singer who has won over audiences with her talent and charm. Hailing from Bandung, Indonesia, she initially gained prominence as a member of the popular JKT48 idol group. After transitioning to acting, Zara quickly established herself in the Indonesian film industry. She delivered remarkable performances in critically acclaimed films such as “Dilan 1990” and its sequels, portraying the character, Milea. These roles earned her widespread recognition and acclaim. Her performance in “Two Blue Stripes” further cemented her status as a talented actress, garnering several awards and nominations. In addition to her film career, Zara is a successful social media influencer with a significant following on platforms like Instagram. Her dynamic presence and versatility continue to propel her as a rising star in Indonesian entertainment.
Kokoy De Santos (Philippines)
Kokoy de Santos, born Ronald Marquez de Santos Jr., is a gifted Filipino actor, singer and model making significant strides in the entertainment industry. Originally from General Trias, Cavite, he started his career with minor roles in various TV shows and films, gradually earning recognition as a versatile performer. His breakthrough came in 2020 with the popular web series “Gameboys,” where he portrayed Gavreel Alarcon. Besides acting, he is also musically talented, having released several singles and frequently showcasing his musical abilities on social media, which further endears him to his fans. His charm, talent, and dedication continue to establish him as a rising star in the Philippine entertainment scene.
Vittawin Panichtamrong (Thailand)
Vic Vittawin Panichtamrong is a skilled Thai actor who has quickly made a name for himself in the entertainment industry. He first garnered attention with his performance in the Thai series “Hit Bite Love,” where his impressive acting skills and youthful charm captivated audiences. His portrayal of the character Hida demonstrated his considerable talent and potential. Additionally, Vic Vittawin expanded his reach with a role in the movie “Firstly ‘Like’ You.” As he continues to develop his career, this rising star is certainly one to watch. Keep an eye out for Vic Vittawin as he promises to continue enchanting viewers with his performances on screen.
Mawar Eva de Jongh (Indonesia)
Hailing from Blitar, East Java, Mawar Eva de Jongh is causing a stir in the Indonesian entertainment scene. With her impressive skills in both acting and singing, Mawar initially gained recognition through her standout performance in “Teman Tapi Menikah 2.” Her ability to convey profound emotions has solidified her status as a rising star. She serves not only as a celebrity but also as a beacon of inspiration for young Indonesians, with her unwavering dedication and artistic integrity. Keep an eye on Mawar as she navigates a promising career in both film and music.
