MUMBAI: Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia has set its sight on its next original production ? *The Apprentice Asia* ? to be presented by Expedia, Hilton Hotels & Resorts and AirAsia.

?The Apprentice Asia? will premiere on AXN across 21 countries in Asia in the first half of 2013.

The Asian adaptation of the mega hit reality series will be hosted by aviation tycoon Tony Fernandes, with the production helmed by FremantleMedia Asia. The elimination competition format will pit Asia-based business executives against each other for the lucrative opportunity to work for one of business magnate Fernandes? businesses.

Sony Pictures Television Networks, Asia executive VP Ricky Ow says, ?AXN is the perfect platform for ?The Apprentice Asia?. The competitive nature and entrepreneurial spirit of the format combined with Tony?s dynamic personality, is sure to entertain Asian audiences. We are proud to partner with Mark Burnett, FremantleMedia, and Tony Fernandes and look forward to the debut of this enthralling and dramatic new pan-Asian original production on AXN.?

One of Asia?s youngest and most celebrated business leaders, Fernandes is the force behind Malaysian entertainment and leisure group Tune Group Sdn. Bhd, the parent company of low-cost airline AirAsia and the Caterham Formula One team. The ultimate dreamer, he also recently fulfilled his childhood dreams by acquiring English Premier League team Queens Park Rangers Football Club and British sports car manufacturer Caterham. In 2010, Fernandes was also named ?Asia?s Businessman of the Year? by Forbes Asia, with an estimated worth of $700 million.

Fernandes said, ?I?m excited to see how the UK and US versions of *The Apprentice* have inspired many entrepreneurs. With the diverse pool of talent in Asia, I hope to find one who dares to follow his dreams, and work for me.?

?The Apprentice? was created by reality TV guru Mark Burnett (The Voice, Survivor), with multi-billionaire Donald Trump as host and co-executive producer. The series has been a worldwide runaway success since its debut in the US in 2004.

Mark Burnett Productions senior VP of international distribution, production C. Scot Cru said, ?We?ve been waiting for just the right time to launch *The Apprentice Asia?. Now that Tony Fernandes is on board, we are looking forward to a great show. AXN is the one and only place I?ve wanted to have ?The Apprentice Asia?; their market dominance means that the maximum amount of people possible will be able to watch this series?.