A Passion for Storytelling
Meet the founder of Switow Media and WOW Asia
Michael Switow is an author and new media professional with more than two decades of experience across Asia.
Since 2012, one of Michael’s favourite beats has been the Asia-Pacific attractions industry, where he is continually amazed and amused by the creativity and innovation of the regions’ parks.
Michael was among the first journalists to chronicle the success of Chimelong Ocean Kingdom, as well as the Malaysian government’s entry into the sector. His in-depth and colourful features have explored the launch and growth of major Asian brands as well as the efforts of international players like KidZania, Lionsgate and Nickelodeon to penetrate new markets. His recently-published book, Taming the Mouse, explores how Ocean Park Hong Kong fought for survival - and thrived - in the face of competition from Hong Kong Disneyland.
These are just a few of the stories that Michael has written about innovation in the Asia-Pacific attractions industry.
Michael made his start in Asia writing for the Associated Press in Manila, then working as a radio and financial journalist. Here’s a clip from the TVB Hong Kong archives:
Michael also provides market reports and business commentary on Singapore's newest English-language channel, MONEY FM 89.3. Here are a couple examples - a report about the dollar's rise (followed by a quiz about the world's worst performing currency), and a conversation with SPH Radio executive editor Ven Srinivasan about trade tensions, Malaysia's election aftermath and Singapore tech darling, Venture Corp.
Hunting for great stories often leads Michael off the beaten path. One day, when he wasn’t covering the markets, that quest led him up the road from Hong Kong to Guangzhou to meet a man who was transforming the way Chinese people learned English. During the mass lesson - which took place weeks after a US bomb fell on the Chinese embassy in the former Yugoslavia - Michael unexpectedly found himself in a potentially volatile situation. Listen in to hear how it turned out:
While we're combing through the archives, just when did video games become sporting events?
Holding a Masters in Public Affairs from Princeton University’s Woodrow Wilson School, Michael still applies the analytical tools he learned at university to get to the heart of economic and financial issues. As the founder of Switow Media and WOW Asia, Michael brings his passion for telling engaging and informative stories to every assignment.