Singapore became my destination before completing my two-year journey in the Master of Arts Screen: Business program. As a Malaysian with family residing and working in Singapore, I assumed I understood the country due to my regional roots. However, the week-long trip in November 2024 offered an eye-opening perspective that challenged my assumptions and deepened my understanding of Singapore’s media landscape. Returning to Singapore gave me a new insight into the country through the perspective of our lecturers, Pia Aquilia and Peter Herbert. Pia is a former foreign expat and academic who spent more than a decade from 2000-13 living and working in Singapore.

Our trip to Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) regional headquarters in Solaris, Fusionopolis Campus, was fascinating. Learning about the launch of ‘Max’ – WBD’s streaming service in the Asian market from Esther Peh was thrilling. We can anticipate how it will shift the regional streaming landscape dominated by Netflix, Disney+ and Amazon Prime. Max will reach Australia in 2025 after the Foxtel-Warner Bros deal expires.

Ultimately, I wished we had more time together. Getting to know my MASB peers better made the journey even more meaningful. This trip—and the subject overall—was an incredible learning experience. It challenged my people skills, pushed me to reflect on my leadership style, and taught me valuable lessons about navigating group dynamics with empathy and resilience.

Indrani
25 November 2024