MAM
Singapore Tourism Board names Markus Tan as Regional Director India, Middle East, South Asia and Africa (IMESA)
Mumbai: The Singapore Tourism Board announced the appointment of Markus Tan as the regional director for India, Middle East, South Asia, and Africa (IMESA) effective January 1, 2024. In his new role based in Mumbai, Tan will spearhead STB’s initiatives in promoting leisure and business travel & meetings, incentives, conventions, and exhibitions (BTMICE) in the IMESA region. His responsibilities will include overseeing travel promotions, public relations, marketing and driving developmental efforts to enhance Singapore’s position as a premier travel and business destination.
Tan is a veteran of STB, having dedicated 18 years to the organisation in various pivotal roles. Prior to this appointment, he served as the director for World Expo and led the whole-of-government efforts to conceptualise, develop, and operate the Singapore Pavilion at Osaka World Expo 2025. From 2015 to 2022 he was based in Tokyo, Japan, as the regional director for North Asia, overseeing STB operations in Japan and the Republic of Korea. His innovative marketing initiatives and collaborations with several brands played a crucial role in showcasing Singapore as an exciting destination, influencing markets beyond the two countries. His international stint includes an impactful role in Guangzhou, China, where he was appointed as area director, Southern China and Hong Kong and Macau. His significant contributions to the tourism industry have left an indelible mark on the China and North Asia markets as they have been instrumental in transforming these dynamic regions into key pillars of Singapore’s global tourism success. One of Tan’s unique strengths is his keen grasp and deep understanding of the BTMICE market through his various roles and projects in the space. Over the years, he has honed his skills and held key positions like deputy director, BTMICE planning & marketing where he played a crucial role in developing strategies for the growth of Singapore’s BTMICE industry, as well as in marketing activities to strengthen Singapore’s position as a global business and MICE destination.
Tan will be taking over from the current regional director GB Srithar. Speaking on the leadership handover Srithar said, “I am thrilled to pass on the baton to Markus to lead Singapore’s tourism business across the IMESA region. Over the course of my tenure in this role, we have witnessed India’s steady growth into a true global powerhouse, with an outbound tourism market that is brimming with opportunities. With his robust expertise in the industry and building on the strong affinity that Indian travellers have for Singapore, I am confident that he is in good stead to steer the organisation through this new era of travel and tourism.”
On his appointment Tan said, “I am excited to take on the role of STB’s regional director in IMESA. India is a nation of rich culture, diversity, and, particularly in this historic moment of its explosive global growth, incredible business opportunities. As STB strives to showcase the best of what Singapore has to offer, we remain committed to nurturing our existing relationships and cultivating new ones with the Indian travel industry. With the support of my team, I look forward to embarking on this journey with our partners and friends across India and together encouraging Indians to build even deeper connections with Singapore.”
Brands
RR Kabel expands FMEG portfolio with kitchen appliances and air coolers
Company forays into mixers, cooktops and hand blenders under RR Signature brand.
MUMBAI: RR Kabel has just cooked up something new and it’s not just another wire. The leading wires and cables manufacturer has announced a significant expansion of its Fast-Moving Electrical Goods (FMEG) portfolio by entering the kitchen appliances segment and strengthening its air coolers range under the premium RR Signature brand. The company has introduced Mixer Grinders, Electric Cooktops (both Induction and Infra-Red variants), and Hand Blenders. These products mark RR Kabel’s strategic foray into everyday kitchen essentials, allowing it to reach deeper into Indian households beyond traditional electrical categories.
The Induction and Infra-Red Cooktops are seeing particularly strong demand amid global developments affecting LPG pricing and supply. Consumers are increasingly shifting to electric cooking for its energy efficiency, precise control, and safety features. RR Signature is reinforcing its ‘Aapke Kaam Ki Baat’ promise with best-in-class warranties across the range.
The company also plans to introduce additional kitchen appliance categories in FY26-27. In parallel, it has expanded its Air Cooler portfolio with new Industrial (Semi-Commercial) models featuring higher tank capacities and superior air throw, catering to both commercial users and households seeking powerful cooling during intensifying summers.
RR Kabel executive director Mahhesh Kabra said, “Our expansion into kitchen appliances allows us to connect with consumers at more touchpoints in their daily lives, while our expanded air cooler range addresses the rising need for effective cooling solutions. These launches reflect our continued focus on quality, innovation, and market relevance.”
By stepping into kitchen appliances and enhancing its cooling solutions, RR Kabel is wiring itself more deeply into Indian homes proving that even a cables company knows how to heat things up in the kitchen and keep things cool elsewhere. The move positions the brand for broader growth as it evolves from wires to a more complete home solutions player.
