Music Video to Premiere Worldwide on 8 August, with Exclusive Advance Screening at HEAD IN THE CLOUDS Music & Arts Festival in Los Angeles
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 August 2026 – Emerging Japanese girl group kiOra marked a major milestone on Saturday, 1 August 2026, with their first-ever overseas performance, taking the stage as the opening act at CENTRAL MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT FESTIVAL 2026 in KUALA LUMPUR at festival venue Zepp. During the performance, the four-member group announced that the official music video for their highly anticipated debut single, "Coco," will premiere worldwide on Saturday, 8 August 2026, coinciding with the song's digital release.
First introduced at HEAD IN THE CLOUDS Music & Arts Festival in TOKYO 2026, hosted by 88rising at Makuhari Messe, kiOra represents a fresh musical movement the group describes as "Tokyo Hyper City Pop" - fusing the sounds of hyperpop with the melodic charm of city pop.
To celebrate the release of "Coco," fans attending HEAD IN THE CLOUDS Music & Arts Festival at the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Los Angeles, will be among the first in the world to experience an exclusive advance screening of the music video on 8 August, ahead of its global premiere.
Please note: kiOra had been scheduled to perform at HEAD IN THE CLOUDS Music & Arts Festival in Los Angeles, USA, on August 8, but the appearance has been canceled due to unforeseen circumstances.
First International Performance
Performing before an enthusiastic audience in Kuala Lumpur, kiOra delivered their first international stage appearance, marking an important step in the group's global journey.
Following the performance, the members shared their thoughts:
OTO:
Getting to perform kiOra's first song "Coco" and sing it together with everyone was amazing! Jom jumpa lagi!
KYLA:
Thank you to everyone who came today! It was the best. The "Coco" MV is coming out soon, so please get ready to watch and rewatch! Can't wait to meet again.
RUKA:
I was so happy to hear your cheers during our first overseas performance. I hope we can sing "Coco" together again!
YU:
I was energized by today's CENTRAL performance. I'll keep doing my best to share our first single "Coco" with even more people around the world!
Keep an eye on kiOra as they continue to make waves on the global stage, ahead of their first single release on August 8.
About kiOra's First Single "Coco"
The title draws on the phrase "in my core," combined with the Japanese words "ima coco" ("here and now"). This is to highlight that your true self is in the moment, not some distant ideal. The track is an anthem to finding the courage to move forward before you feel ready.
The core of kiOra's sound, Tokyo Hyper City Pop, was shaped by four accomplished producers and songwriters: her0ism, Yaeji, Mechatok, and Kanata Okajima.
her0ism, deeply involved with kiOra since the project's inception, is a producer known for writing with top artists in Japan and abroad, including BLACKPINK's LISA, XG, Arashi, and NEWS.
The production team also features Yaeji, the globally acclaimed artist, producer, and DJ known for her collaborations with Sampha, Charli XCX, and Dua Lipa. Last year she attracted major attention with her official remix of Hikaru Utada's "Mine or Yours."
Mechatok, a leading producer of the hyperpop scene based in Berlin and London, is known for his work with V8 (SEVENTEEN), FKA twigs, fakemink, and Bladee.
Finally, the team was joined by one of Japan's foremost songwriters, Kanata Okajima, who's behind numerous hits for BTS, Namie Amuro, and more.
As production progressed, Los Angeles-based songwriter Chelsea Warner joined the team (known for work with EXO, (G)I-DLE, and KiiiKiii). The recording took place at StudioBeat3, founded by multi-platinum engineer IRKO, whose credits include The Weeknd and many others. Vocal production was handled by renowned vocal director Ashley Alish.
Bringing together top talent from Japan, Korea, Europe, and the US has ushered in the new global pop sound "Tokyo Hyper City Pop." Inspired by Japanese heritage, kiOra's first chapter "Coco" begins its worldwide release on August 8, with the music video to follow the next day.
Credits:
CENTRAL MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT FESTIVAL 2026 in KUALA LUMPUR photos (credit: Masato Yokoyama)
CENTRAL MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT FESTIVAL 2026 in KUALA LUMPUR video (credit: MMT inc.)
Digital Single "Coco"
Release date: Saturday, August 8, 2026
Pre-add / Pre-save here: https://orcd.co/kiora_coco
Event Information
CENTRAL MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT FESTIVAL 2026 – Kuala Lumpur
Venue: Zepp Kuala Lumpur
Date: Saturday, 1 August 2026
Line-up: KANA-BOON * Tatsuya Kitani * jo0ji * ReoNa * kiOra (Opening Act)
Profile
Derived from the Japanese word "kiyoraka", meaning pure or clear, kiOra is a four-member girl group that embraces the beauty of growth, authenticity and continual evolution.
Unveiled at HEAD IN THE CLOUDS TOKYO 2026, the group is built around the concept of Japanese Heritage, expressing the idea that true artistry lies not in perfection, but in the courage to continue evolving. Through their music, visuals and performances, kiOra aims to share a contemporary vision of Japanese culture with audiences around the world.
For more information, follow kiOra on all Social Media: https://kiora.lnk.to/profile
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kiOra_offcl/
X: https://x.com/kiOra_offcl
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@kiora_offcl
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@kiora_offcl
Hashtag: #kiOra #TokyoHyperCityPop
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
** This press release is distributed by Media OutReach Newswire through automated distribution system, for which the client assumes full responsibility. **
kiOra Makes International Debut in Kuala Lumpur
SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 3 August 2026 - In an increasingly globalised economy, the pursuit of higher education has become both a critical driver of social mobility and a significant financial investment. While Singapore is a well-connected international education destination, SIM GE addresses these evolving challenges by offering a culturally diverse learning environment through university partnerships, backed by accessible financial aid.
SIM Global Education offers programmes to Singapore and international students and provides a range of scholarships and financial assistance schemes for eligible applicants. SIM GE's scholarships and financial assistance schemes aim to help eligible students manage some of the costs associated with their studies, subject to the applicable selection criteria and availability of funding. Through a combination of scholarships and responsive crisis funds, SIM GE actively nurtures Singaporean and global talent while offering a resilient safety net for its diverse student community.
SIM GE's Scholarship and Financial Aid Ecosystem
SIM GE's comprehensive financial support is strategically designed to achieve these dual objectives. By structuring awards that cater to different stages of the academic lifecycle, supporting both incoming freshmen and current undergraduates, the institution attracts top-tier regional talents and rewards ongoing distinction, creating a powerful motivation effect that collectively elevates a vibrant, high-achieving student community.
Consequently, these award recipients are empowered to navigate their career paths with complete flexibility, whether entering the global workforce, pursuing advanced research, or launching entrepreneurial ventures.
| Funding Instrument | Target Demographics | Primary Strategic Objective | Service Obligation |
| SIM STARRR Award | High-Potential new students | Attracting excellence in academics, co-curriculars, leadership, resourcefulness, responsibility, and resilience. | Bond-Free |
| SIM Award/Sports & Artistic Talent Award | Current Undergraduates | Reward continuous academic, athletic, and artistic excellence | Bond-Free |
| Diploma Scholarships | International new students | Enhance educational access for high-potential international students | Bond-Free |
| SIM GE Crisis Fund | Local & International Students | Provide urgent financial assistance to eligible students experiencing an unforeseen family financial crisis. | Not applicable. |
The SIM STARRR Award for New Undergraduates
The SIM STARRR Award recognises high-achieving undergraduates at SIM GE and supports their continued development. This competitive scholarship is tailored for high-potential new undergraduate students who demonstrate not only outstanding academic records but also exemplary leadership, strong character, and active engagement in co-curricular activities.
Funding Quantum and Disbursement Structure
The financial architecture of the SIM STARRR Award is engineered to provide peace of mind, allowing scholars to focus on their personal and academic growth. Delivering a maximum total value of up to S$51,000, comprising specified payments and reimbursements subject to individual limits and the scholarship terms.
- Tuition and Academic Support: A reimbursement of tuition fees of up to S$36,000.
- Essential Equipment Grant: A one-off reimbursement of up to S$2,000 for a computer.
- Global Exposure Grant: A one-off reimbursement of up to S$1,500 for an exchange programme air ticket.
- Living and Accommodation Allowances: A one-off living allowance of S$6,500 and reimbursement of accommodation costs of up to S$5,000.
The award comprises specified payments and reimbursements for tuition fees, living expenses, accommodation, an exchange programme air ticket and a computer, subject to the published limits and terms.
Academic performance is reviewed every semester, and the scholarship may be withdrawn if the recipient's progress or behaviour is considered unsatisfactory.
Eligibility Criteria and Assessment Benchmarks
Securing the SIM STARRR Award requires candidates to satisfy a comprehensive set of evaluation benchmarks designed to identify holistic excellence. Eligible applicants may be local or international new students, including those already enrolled in an undergraduate programme but who have not yet received any examination results from their university partner.
During the assessment process, the selection panel evaluates candidates across multiple dimensions :
- Academic Performance: Outstanding results in high school graduation examinations, GCE A-Levels, or equivalent diploma qualifications.
- Leadership and Character: Demonstrated leadership roles within student government, community organisations, or sports clubs.
- Co-curricular and Civic Engagement: Active participation in co-curricular activities, community services, or creative initiatives.
- Communication Skills: Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, assessed through written personal statements and formal interviews.
Bond-Free SIM Awards and Sports & Artistic Talent Awards: Encouraging On-Course Undergraduates to Excel
Academic excellence and talent development do not stop at enrollment; rather, they require continuous nourishment and incentive. To maintain high standards of performance throughout the undergraduate journey, SIM GE offers specialised awards designed to motivate and reward current undergraduates who continue to demonstrate exceptional capabilities on-course.
Scholarship Value and Phased Disbursement Mechanism
The SIM Awards and the Sports & Artistic Talent Awards provide a financial incentive valued at S$15,000. These awards are available to eligible current undergraduate students who have received at least one set of examination results from their university partner.
To align with academic progression, the S$15,000 incentive is disbursed through a phased mechanism. This structure ensures that recipients are supported continuously as they complete their remaining semesters. The S$15,000 award is disbursed in two stages: the first disbursement is made when the award is granted, and the second is made after a review of the recipient's final-semester results.
Application Timelines and Student Ambassador Obligations
Applications for the SIM Award and Sports & Artistic Talent Award are currently open twice a year, in March and September. Applicants are required to submit the applicable official academic documents, co-curricular activity records, documentary evidence of achievements and awards, and testimonials from industrial or professional attachments or National Service, where applicable.
Beyond receiving financial support, awardees are expected to contribute actively to the institutional community. The published terms state that every scholar is expected to contribute to SIM GE or the community, but they do not specify that all recipients must serve as Student Ambassadors.
This ambassadorship programme not only enhances the public profile of the institution but also provides scholars with invaluable opportunities to develop professional networking, public speaking, and leadership skills.
Dedicated Pathway for International Diploma Students: Academic Excellence and Merit Scholarships Covering Tuition Fees
International students contribute a range of cultural and educational perspectives to the SIM GE student community. To support high-achieving international new undergraduate students, SIM GE offers two scholarship options for eligible new international students enrolling in specified diploma programmes, covering either 50% or 100% of total fees.
These scholarships are available to new international students enrolled in specified SIM diploma programmes, some of which may provide progression routes to further study:
- Diploma in Accounting.
- Diploma in Banking & Finance.
- Diploma in International Business.
- Diploma in Management Studies.
- Diploma in Information Technology.
| Scholarship Category | Funding Quantum | Target Academic Profile | Key Retention Requirement |
| Academic Excellence Scholarship (Diploma) | 100% of the course fees | Exceptional secondary school or 12th-grade results; outstanding leadership and communication skills | Completion within the minimum study period; continuous semester-by-semester performance review |
| Merit Scholarship (Diploma) | 50% of the course fees | Strong secondary school or 12th-grade academic results; solid communication skills | Completion within the minimum study period; continuous semester-by-semester performance review |
The application process requires applicants to complete the online application and submit all specified supporting documents before the closing date. To prevent administrative delays or rejection, applicants must adhere to a strict document submission protocol. Applicants are required to submit scanned supporting documents in soft-copy format and organise them in a compressed file in accordance with the current application guide.
The essential supporting documents required for evaluation include:
- Official academic records and transcripts, accompanied by notarised English translations where applicable.
- Documentary evidence of an accepted English-language qualification, such as GCE O-Level English, IELTS, TOEFL, SAT I, the Pearson Test or another equivalent qualification.
- Certificates of co-curricular activity participation, community service records, or special awards.
- A written personal statement detailing the applicant's academic goals, motivation, and future aspirations.
- A clear copy of the applicant's passport.
- A copy of the acknowledgement document for their diploma application as evidence that the application has been submitted successfully.
Applicants are instructed to submit only one scholarship application before the closing date. Furthermore, double funding is strictly regulated; successful candidates are not allowed to receive concurrent scholarships from other organisations without prior written approval from SIM GE. If an applicant applies for both diploma scholarships, only the application for the SIM GE Merit Scholarship (Diploma) will be considered.
SIM Scholarships Supporting Student Success and Mobility
The pursuit of global academic mobility is a defining feature of the modern educational experience. To prepare students for an increasingly interconnected world, SIM GE collaborates with international universities from the United Kingdom, the United States, and Australia to deliver globally recognised degree programmes. The institution's scholarship architecture is designed to support student success and physical mobility across these global degree pathways.
SIM GE offers programmes in partnership with universities, including the University of London, University of Birmingham, University of Stirling, University at Buffalo, RMIT University and University of Wollongong. Eligible students in specified programmes who have been accepted into an approved overseas activity may apply for the SIM Study Abroad Award to help reimburse eligible airfare and accommodation expenses.
Empowering Global Horizons: The SIM Study Abroad Award for Local Undergraduates
International academic exposure may help students broaden their perspectives and gain experience of different cultures and education systems. However, the cost of travelling and living abroad can often be a major barrier. The SIM Study Abroad Award is available to eligible Singapore citizens and Singapore permanent residents who are current SIM GE students enrolled in specified undergraduate programmes and have been accepted into an approved overseas programme.
Driving Academic Mobility in the Asia-Pacific Region through Flexible Support and Bond-Free Options
For the 2026 intake, eligible applicants with a Per Capita Income of S$0 to S$600 may receive reimbursement of up to S$7,000, while those with a Per Capita Income of S$601 to S$3,000 may receive reimbursement of up to S$4,000 for eligible airfare and accommodation expenses. This award is tenable specifically for the duration of approved exchange programmes, study abroad initiatives, summer schools, or global immersion programmes.
Applications are assessed according to factors including academic merit, PCI-based financial need and active involvement in SIM student life and community engagement.
- Financial Eligibility Threshold: Applicants must fall within a Per Capita Income (PCI) bracket of S$3,000 or below. PCI is calculated by dividing the total gross monthly household income by the number of household members and is one of the factors used to assess an applicant's financial need.
- Academic and Conduct Benchmarks: Candidates must demonstrate solid academic performance, a clean disciplinary record, and active involvement in SIM student life and community engagement.
- Ambassadorial Commitment: To cultivate a culture of community contribution, awardees must fulfil their obligations as Student Ambassadors, actively sharing their international experiences and representing SIM GE at open houses and educational recruitment events.
- Repayment Exemption: No repayment is normally required, although a partial or full refund may be imposed if the recipient discontinues the approved study-abroad programme or breaches the terms of the SIM Study Abroad Award Agreement.
An Emergency Financial Safety Net: The SIM GE Crisis Fund for eligible Students
Financial stability can change unexpectedly due to unforeseen circumstances, such as the sudden illness, disability, or death of a primary household breadwinner. The SIM GE Crisis Fund provides financial assistance to eligible students experiencing an unforeseen family financial crisis, with applications processed and awarded quarterly.
The SIM GE Crisis Fund is valued at S$5,000 for each eligible student, with two awards available per quarter. The fund is open to eligible full-time and part-time SIM GE students pursuing Foundation, Diploma, Undergraduate or Postgraduate programmes who have enrolled and started classes, subject to a Per Capita Income ceiling of S$1,000 and the other published eligibility criteria. Crucially, to prioritise primary academic progressions, students currently enrolled in bridging, preparatory, or English certificate courses are excluded.
Students can apply for the SIM GE Crisis Fund through a two-step application process on the SIMConnect portal:
- Step 1: Prepare and Scan Supporting Documents
- Checklist of required supporting documents
- Additional Information Form
- Self-Declaration Form
- Detailed Personal Letter explaining the family crisis
- Step 2: Submit Application via SIMConnect
- Log in to SIMConnect and navigate to the 'My Apps' tab.
- Select 'Self Service' and click on 'Campus Finance'.
- Select 'Financial Aid' and click 'Apply for Bursary'.
- Checklist of required supporting documents
- Additional Information Form
- Self-Declaration Form
- Detailed Personal Letter explaining the family crisis
- Log in to SIMConnect and navigate to the 'My Apps' tab.
- Select 'Self Service' and click on 'Campus Finance'.
- Select 'Financial Aid' and click 'Apply for Bursary'.
While the SIM GE Crisis Fund accepts applications year-round, submissions are processed and awarded on a quarterly schedule. Applications are processed quarterly, and disbursement normally takes place within approximately one month of the application.
| Operational Quarter | Application Closing Date | Notification Window | Disbursement Timeline |
| Quarter 1 | 31 March | Within 1 month of application | Within 1 month of approval via Interbank GIRO or Cheque |
| Quarter 2 | 30 June | Within 1 month of application | Within 1 month of approval via Interbank GIRO or Cheque |
| Quarter 3 | 30 September | Within 1 month of application | Within 1 month of approval via Interbank GIRO or Cheque |
| Quarter 4 | 31 December | Within 1 month of application | Within 1 month of approval via Interbank GIRO or Cheque |
This responsive crisis fund, combined with SIM GE's academic scholarships, demonstrates the institution's commitment to providing a safe, supportive, and accessible educational journey. Together, SIM GE's scholarships and financial assistance schemes provide different forms of support for eligible students based on factors such as academic achievement, talent, programme participation and financial need.
Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About SIM Global Education
SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor's and master's degree programmes with some of the world's most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, the United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE's cohort is made up of 17,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 41% are international students hailing from over 50 countries. SIM GE's holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world. For more information on SIM Global Education, visit www.sim.edu.sg
** This press release is distributed by Media OutReach Newswire through automated distribution system, for which the client assumes full responsibility. **
