S’pore digital publication RICE Media has been acquired, plans to expand beyond publishing

Co-founder Mark Tan had initially considered shutting down the site

Homegrown digital publication RICE Media has been acquired by Hustle Studios, the content agency arm of creative academy Hustle Singapore.

According to an announcement made on RICE Media’s website, the acquisition marks a new chapter for the publication, bringing together its editorial voice and audience community with Hustle’s expertise in creative training, facilitation, and industry programmes.

The deal formalises a long-standing partnership between the two organisations, which have previously collaborated on initiatives aimed at developing creative skills for Singapore audiences.

Under Hustle Studios, RICE is expected to expand beyond publishing into workshops, community programmes, and other experiences that engage readers in more interactive and participatory ways.

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

RICE Media was founded in 2016

Founded in 2016 by former lawyer Mark Tan and Julian Wong, RICE Media billed itself as an independent publication that offered an unfiltered take on Singapore and Asia. It became known for its long-form stories and commentaries on Singapore’s news and culture.

“We started RICE because we believed Singaporeans deserved honest, thoughtful storytelling about their own lives,” said Mark Tan, outgoing founder and CEO. “I think we’ve largely accomplished that mission.”

Co-founder Wong added that the acquisition aligns with the publication’s long-term vision. “We’ve built more than just content… we’ve built a community. Hustle shares that vision, and we’re confident they’re the right partners to help RICE evolve,” he said.

Tan said he had initially considered shutting down the site but ultimately decided the publication still had a role to play. “The transaction and the money coming in would allow me to settle most of the liabilities and also pay people a severance package, so I think it’s really the most responsible thing for me to do,” he said.

The goal is not merely to maintain what RICE has been, but to “grow into what its community has been asking for.” During this transitional phase, Tan and Wong will remain involved in an advisory capacity, while RICE continues to publish content for its audience.

Further announcements about new programming and community initiatives will follow in the coming months.

Featured Image Credit: RICE Media/ High Net Worth