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Aonic Secures Unmanned Aerial Work Certificate (UAWC) from CAAM, Elevating Standards in Agricultural Drone Operations

PUTRAJAYA, Malaysia, Jan. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Aonic, a leading service provider and drone manufacturer, proudly announces the successful certification of the Unmanned Aerial Work Certificate (UAWC) from the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM). This significant milestone underscores Aonic’s commitment to regulatory compliance, safety, and operational excellence in the agricultural unmanned aircraft system (UAS) sector.

The Aonic Team, alongside the CAAM team, united in dedication to advancing safe and sustainable drone operations during the UAWC Presentation Ceremony.
The Aonic Team, alongside the CAAM team, united in dedication to advancing safe and sustainable drone operations during the UAWC Presentation Ceremony.

CAAM’s Role in Regulating Malaysia’s Drone Industry

YBhg. Dato’ Captain Norazman bin Mahmud, Chief Executive Officer of CAAM, remarked: “With over 190,000 drones registered in 2024, it is both an exciting and critical time for the drone industry. The issuance of the Unmanned Aerial Work Certificate (UAWC) demonstrates the balance we’ve achieved between fast-paced industry growth and regulatory compliance. CAAM will ensure that this rapidly developing sector remains sustainable and safe. This milestone is not just a proud achievement but a historic moment for advancing the safety and professionalism of drone operations in Malaysia.”

As the landscape of drone technology continues to evolve, the CAAM plays a vital role in ensuring the safety of Malaysia’s airspace by setting stringent safety standards for drone operations. Under the Civil Aviation Directive (CAD) 6011 Part II, all agricultural UAS operations are governed to maintain public safety and operational integrity.

Aonic has met the rigorous requirements outlined in CAD 6011 Part II to obtain its UAWC, which is mandatory for commercial organizations engaged in agricultural activities such as drone spraying. This certification not only safeguards Aonic’s operations but also positions the company as a trusted partner for its clients.

Commitment to Safety and Quality

Cheong Jin Xi, CEO of Aonic, expressed his excitement: “We are excited to receive the UAWC from CAAM. This achievement reflects our dedication to providing reliable drone services that prioritize safety and quality. We look forward to expanding our offerings and continuing to support plantations and farmers across Malaysia.” Aonic extends its sincere gratitude to all stakeholders, clients, and especially the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) for their unwavering support throughout this process.

The UAWC mandates adherence to strict aviation safety guidelines, significantly reducing risks associated with drone operations and ensuring the safety of people, property, and the environment. With the UAWC, Aonic aims to lead its customers toward achieving necessary safety standards. To date, Aonic has upskilled over 4,680 people with the latest drone technologies, provided more than 3 million USD in flexible agriculture drone equipment financing to smallholder farmers, enhancing their operational capabilities and livelihood. Internally, Aonic has also achieved a proven track record of over 100,000 successful unmanned aircraft flight missions in various projects, driving innovation in the industry.

Aonic is dedicated to upholding the highest standards in Agricultural UAS operations, prioritizing quality and safety across various industries such as public safety, AEC & Surveying, Electricity, Oil & Gas and Agriculture. Obtaining the UAWC has also facilitated Aonic’s ability to scale operations safely and effectively, paving the way for future growth in the drone industry.

Join Us in Transforming Agricultural Operations

Aonic invites businesses and individuals interested in leveraging drone technology for agricultural operations to learn more about its end-to-end solutions. Visit www.aonic.com to explore how Aonic can help transform your operations.

About Aonic

Aonic is a leading provider of drone-based solutions, specialising in delivering comprehensive, end-to-end services across six integrated verticals. Built on a foundation of expertise in drone technology, Aonic’s expanded verticals offer customised, innovative solutions designed to meet the unique needs of enterprises and end users.

Global Supply Chains Forced to Change Rapidly As World Trade Enters New Era According to Economist Impact and DP World

Non-aligned nations fast emerging as vital intermediaries in mitigating trade risks, filling gaps created by global conflicts

DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Three quarters of businesses worldwide are overhauling their supply chains by working with more rather than fewer suppliers to mitigate risks in an increasingly fragmented global environment.

Research unveiled by Economist Impact and DP World at the World Economic Forum highlights this strategic pivot, driven by geopolitical uncertainty which is likely to grow with the ‘America first’ policies of the new administration in the United States.

The fifth annual Trade in Transition study surveyed over 3,500 supply chain executives across the world. The findings reveal firms are being forced to adapt at speed to rising protectionism and shifting geopolitical alliances.

Countries perceived to be non-aligned, such as Vietnam, Mexico, India, the UAE or Brazil, are emerging as vital trade hubs. A significant 71% of executives agree these countries mitigate trade risks, while 69% view them as critical for addressing gaps created by global conflicts.

Around 40% of firms are increasing their US-based sourcing and a further 32% are adopting dual supply chains to mitigate against geopolitical risks. Friendshoring—relocating supply chains to politically aligned countries—complements these strategies, with about 34% of businesses pursuing this approach to navigate tensions between global powers.

Economic challenges remain a priority, with 33% of executives citing prolonged inflation and high interest rates as chief concerns. By leveraging neutral hubs, diversifying suppliers and adopting advanced technologies like AI, businesses are better positioned to navigate this era of economic and geopolitical complexity.

Speaking at the launch of the report at the World Economic Forum in Davos today, DP World Group Chairman and CEO Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, said:

“Global trade today is more complex than ever, demanding agility, resilience, and innovation. At DP World, we empower businesses with the global infrastructure, local expertise, and advanced technology needed to thrive in this evolving landscape across fragmented markets. The latest research by Economist Impact provides invaluable insights into the future of trade in this new era. With it, we aim to foster dialogue, innovation, and resilience within the global supply chain ecosystem, empowering businesses to adapt and thrive in an increasingly dynamic world.”

John Ferguson, Global Lead, New Globalisation, Economist Impact, added:

“In 2025 and the foreseeable future, global trade will be shaped by three forces: shifting geopolitics, climate change, and a new wave of AI and automation. Yet, businesses are not retreating from international trade but are stepping up to the challenge. Firms that stay agile and cost-efficient will have the edge. Firms that also combine risk management with AI experimentation and openness will be best placed to win in this new chapter of globalisation.”

Discover actionable insights and detailed strategies for thriving in the evolving global trade landscape. Click here to view the full report.

KEY INSIGHTS FROM TRADE IN TRANSITION 2025

Metric

Percentage

Notes

Businesses diversifying supplier bases

75 %

Spreading risk and increasing resilience by

working with more partners

Neutral hubs as stability anchors

71 %

Examples of Vietnam, Mexico, India, UAE, and
Brazil

Neutral countries filling trade conflict gaps

69 %

Cited as critical for mitigating geopolitical risks

 

Increased US-based sourcing

40 %

Adapting to a Republican-led administration

 

Dual supply chain adoption on the rise

32 %

Mitigates region-specific risks

 

Rising friendshoring adoption

34 %

Reducing exposure to great-power rivalries

 

Chief concern: prolonged inflation and rates

33 %

Economic pressure remains a key issue

Source : Economist Impact

 

For media enquiries, please contact:

Adal Mirza

Group Vice President

Adal.mirza@dpworld.com

+971 50 628 7856

Hakam Kherallah

Group Senior Manager

Hakam.Kherallah@dpworld.com

+971 50 552 2610

Follow DP World on:

X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/DP_World

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/dp-world

About DP World

DP World is reshaping the future of global trade to improve lives everywhere. Operating across six continents with a team of over 100,000 employees, we combine global infrastructure and local expertise to deliver seamless supply chain solutions. From Ports and Terminals to Marine Services, Logistics and Technology, we leverage innovation to create better ways to trade, minimizing disruptions from the factory floor to the customer’s door.

WE MAKE TRADE FLOW

PDF – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2601822/DP_World.pdf

Trinasolar Powers AstraZeneca’s Sustainability Vision with Cutting-Edge Solar Carpark Rooftop Install

AstraZeneca’s Sydney manufacturing operation boosted by clean energy, supporting global carbon-neutral goals

SYDNEY, Jan. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Trinasolar, a global leader in smart PV and energy storage, has partnered with Smart Commercial Solar to deliver an advanced solar panel installation for AstraZeneca’s new major rooftop car park at its Macquarie Park manufacturing complex.

AstraZeneca's Carport Installation in Macquarie Park, Sydney Credit: Smart Commercial Solar
AstraZeneca’s Carport Installation in Macquarie Park, Sydney Credit: Smart Commercial Solar

The project, a bold and impactful initiative, provides significant energy savings by utilising a relatively new innovation in commercial renewable energy – solar car shades.

The Macquarie Park development features 1,092 Trinasolar modules, generating approximately 911 MWh annually and enabling solar energy to meet 16% of the site’s energy needs. Completed in just six months, the car shade project supports AstraZeneca’s Ambition Zero Carbon program and integrates four electric vehicle charging stations for staff and visitors, further showcasing AstraZeneca’s commitment to clean energy innovation.

Anastasi Kotoros, Project Lead from EPC, Smart Commercial Solar, highlighted the importance of choosing the right hardware for commercial installs:

“With a focus on functional design and efficiency, Trinasolar’s bifacial modules allow sunlight to pass through and increase yield from reflected rays. Trinasolar’s hardware was a natural choice for this installation. With the cutting-edge, modern glass panelling enabled us to create a practical, user-friendly solar car park that perfectly complements AstraZeneca’s sustainability goals.”

Edison Zhou, Group Director of Australia, New Zealand and Pakistan, Trinasolar Asia Pacific, expressed his enthusiasm for the project and acknowledged the expertise of the Smart Commercial team as a key to the project’s success:

“It’s always exciting to see large-scale rooftop car park installations come to life, especially when they deliver on both exceptional performance and sleek aesthetics. This installation not only provides much-needed shade in the hotter months but also contributes to AstraZeneca’s ambitious sustainability targets. The collaboration with Smart Commercial Solar has resulted in a high-quality, visually impressive system that will deliver meaningful energy savings for AstraZeneca for years to come.”

The project’s benefits go beyond energy savings. On a global scale, AstraZeneca aims to reduce its scope one and two energy emissions by 98% by the end of 2025. The Macquarie Park carpark installation is a tangible step towards achieving this target. Additionally, by powering four EV chargers, the project supports AstraZeneca’s transition to electric vehicles, offering real savings to our both employees and visitors alike.

The collaboration exemplifies Trinasolar and Smart Commercial Solar’s shared commitment to driving renewable energy adoption in Australia. By combining Trinasolar’s high-efficiency solar technology and on-ground support with Smart Commercial Solar’s design and installation expertise, the project sets a gold standard for rooftop solar installations, an increasingly popular solution for organisations striving to meet their sustainability goals.

Virtus Fertility Centre Singapore Marks a Decade of Fertility Care

Virtus Health’s first greenfield embryology and andrology facility in Asia strives to stay at the forefront of reproductive medicine through science, ongoing research, evidence-based personalized care, and accessible fertility education.

SINGAPORE, Jan. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Virtus Fertility Centre Singapore (VFCS) today celebrates its 10th anniversary, commemorating a decade of contributing research and evidence-based science to support fertility preservation and infertility treatments related to single embryo transfer, egg freezing, PGT testing, and more.

Our story began with a vision to provide Singapore and the region with evidenced-based fertility treatment that combines clinical excellence with personalised care, guided by empathy and motivated by research and science—core values that embody Virtus Health’s clinical legacy. The facility opened on 21 January 2015.  

Since then, the fertility care facility is proud to have helped thousands of families begin their parenthood journey, contributing to over 1600 healthy births over the past decade.

“It’s with great pride that we have marked our decade-long work in reproductive medicine, helping patients realize their family creation dreams and delivering the right level of patient care driven by evidence-based practices,” said Dr Roland Chieng, Founding Medical Director of Virtus Fertility Centre Singapore.

The latest development at VFCS is the adoption of artificial intelligence in IVF processes in 2024, now a standard of care at our centre. By integrating AI with our clinical expertise, we have enhanced treatment outcomes, offering patients the best possible chance of success in their fertility journey. 

Over the decade, VFCS has established a cleanroom-grade IVF laboratory with advanced safety and technological features, including:

  • RFID witnessing system for enhanced specimen identification and tracking.
  • Intracytoplasmic Morphologically Selected Sperm Injection (IMSI) for enhanced sperm selection
  • Assisted hatching technology to facilitate embryo implantation and improve pregnancy outcomes.
  • Time-lapse monitoring systems for continuous embryo observation
  • Smart Laboratory environmental monitoring systems

These laboratory systems work together to maintain specimen security and optimal conditions for embryo development. The RFID-based witnessing system provides automated verification at critical points throughout the IVF process, ensuring accurate identification and tracking of patient specimens.

“The next decade years will certainly bring many changes to our space, but our laser focus on putting patients first and using the best science to help them realize their family creation dreams remain a force that will continue to shape the future of reproductive care,” said Dr Liow Swee Lian, Scientific Director of Virtus Fertility Centre Singapore.

The Centre will mark this milestone by integrating the ReadyBaby programme as part of fertility care with lifestyle modifications to help patients prepare for their fertility treatment. It includes:

  • Personalised nutrition advisory
  • Stress management techniques.
  • Sleep hygiene guidance.
  • Body composition monitoring
  • Hormonal health tracking

“The ReadyBaby programme reflects our understanding that physical and emotional preparation is key to the fertility journey,” said Dr. Chieng. “Our aim is that through this programme, our patients develop sustainable habits that support them before and during their treatment and well into their life.”

Throughout 2025, the public can expect educational events and patient support initiatives, reinforcing our commitment to raising awareness about fertility health and providing accessible treatment options for all who need them.

About Virtus Fertility Centre Singapore

Established in 2015, Virtus Fertility Centre Singapore (VFCS) provides personalized fertility care. As part of Australian-based Virtus Health, with a network of over 40 clinics worldwide, VFCS has access to proven reproductive science techniques and treatment programmes to support couples in Singapore. The facility is Virtus Health’s largest self-contained fertility laboratory in the region, providing comprehensive services such as consultations, procedures, and monitoring, ensuring top-tier care for couples navigating complex fertility issues.

Arctech’s SkyLine II Solar Tracker, StarShine I Intelligent PV Cleaning Robot and BESS Steal the Show at WFES 2025

ABU DHABI, UAE, Jan. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — From January 14th to 16th, Arctech, the world’s leading solar tracking and racking solutions provider, participated in the World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2025 at the ADNEC Exhibition Center, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Over the course of three vibrant days, Arctech presented its cutting-edge solar solutions, including its signature 1P single-axis solar tracking system SkyLine II, intelligent PV cleaning robot StarShine I, and advanced BESS (Battery Energy Storage System), to an audience of developers, EPCs, and industry leaders in the MEA region.

The Arctech Team at WFES 2025
The Arctech Team at WFES 2025

The SkyLine II solar tracker continues to gain momentum in the market, thanks to its innovative features and high adaptability to regional conditions. This year, combined with Arctech’s StarShine I Intelligent PV Cleaning Robot, this tracker plus cleaning robot combination became the star of this exhibition.

Arctech’s StarShine I Intelligent PV Cleaning Robot garnered significant attention at WFES 2025 due to its innovative design tailored specifically for the challenging environment of the MEA region. Equipped with an advanced “Tracker” joint control system, StarShine I is resistant to sand and wind, ensuring reliable operation in harsh desert conditions.

Key highlights include:

  • High-strength composite materials: A weight reduction of over 30% compared to traditional cleaning machines, minimizing the risk of hidden solar module cracks.
  • Maintenance-free system: Designed for the entire lifecycle of the solar project, eliminating costly and time-consuming upkeep.
  • Better compatibility: Adaptable to varying solar array spacings and tolerant of construction discrepancies.
  • Intelligent four-wheel drive: Exceptional obstacle-climbing capabilities, ensuring smooth operation even on uneven terrains.

These features make the StarShine I cleaning robot an essential solution for optimizing energy generation and maintaining solar panel efficiency in challenging environments.

Additionally, Arctech’s BESS attracted considerable attention at WFES. Featuring in-house developed PCS, BMS, and EMS, it is tailored to meet the MEA region’s growing demand for dependable energy storage solutions.

Since 2024, Arctech has been dedicated to developing its “tracker+” business, which revolves around a range of solutions centered on solar trackers. This strategic initiative is part of Arctech’s broader effort to enhance the “Green Power+” industrial ecosystem, which aims to create sustainable, integrated solutions for renewable energy generation. By focusing on the innovative, tracker-centric business model, Arctech is paving the way for a smarter and greener future in the solar industry.

2025 Gifting Insights From Latest Survey

Birthdays top the occasion for both gift-giving and gift-receiving while natural diamond jewellery remains the most wanted gifts.


HONG KONG – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 January 2025 – For most of us, a new year brings fresh opportunities, yearly goals, and professional and personal aspirations. Stepping into 2025, a recent survey by NielsenIQ (NIQ) reveals consumers in the city are eager to pamper themselves and their loved ones with meaningful gifts in the year ahead. Over 90% of respondents intend to purchase a gift while 80% indicate they will purchase natural diamond jewellery. The findings show that birthdays are the top occasions to receive gifts and give gifts. In terms of the choice of gifts, 77% of respondents (out of 87% who expect to receive any gifts) wish to receive natural diamond jewellery as a gift.

Stepping into 2025, a recent gifting survey by NielsenIQ (NIQ) reveals over 90% of respondents intend to purchase a gift while 80% indicate they will purchase natural diamond jewellery.
Stepping into 2025, a recent gifting survey by NielsenIQ (NIQ) reveals over 90% of respondents intend to purchase a gift while 80% indicate they will purchase natural diamond jewellery.
Conducted with over 1,300 respondents through an online questionnaire, the survey delves into local gifting preferences. The findings confirm that gifting is a cherished tradition, creating memorable experiences during significant occasions, such as birthdays (58%), anniversaries (40%), Valentine’s Day (31%), and Christmas (31%). Notably, most respondents (89%) emphasize that natural diamonds are essential for jewellery, whether as gifts or for personal enjoyment. 93% of consumers plan to purchase gifts for upcoming occasions in the coming 12 months, with 87% looking forward to receiving gifts as well. Interestingly, while partners and spouses remain the primary recipients of gifts (50%), a growing number of respondents (55%) are embracing self-gifting.

When it comes to preferred gifts, sparkling jewellery stands out. 67% of respondents cited jewellery as one of their top three gifting preferences, with 34% selecting it as their top choice. This is followed by travel (22%), fashion, accessories, and bags (20%), and electronics (14%). The allure of jewellery is even stronger among those wish to receive gifts, with 44% choosing it, surpassing travel (19%) and fashion, accessories, and bags (16%).

Among the types of jewellery desired, preferences range from rings and necklaces to earrings and bracelets. When selecting their ideal natural diamonds, respondents prioritize several key criteria. The classic 4Cs (carat, colour, clarity and cut) are the top considerations for 72% of consumers, followed by price 53% and certification 49%. Design and origin also play significant roles, with 46% and 31% of respondents considering these factors, respectively.

The reasons for choosing natural diamonds reflect their intrinsic values. 85% consider natural diamonds to be “precious, rare, and naturally formed through time and nature,” while 84% view them as “one-of-a-kind.” Additionally, 80% appreciate that their value is sustained due to their rarity.

40% respondents indicate their main source of information about natural diamonds is social media. Regarding the purchase mode for diamond jewellery, 89% of respondents will do research before making a purchase decision. Yet 81% will make the purchase in a physical store. This indicates a combination of online and offline research, and offline buying behaviour among consumers. 65% agree that the research information obtained so far is sufficient. As far as gifting is concerned, it is clear that natural diamonds remain a top choice for consumers looking to celebrate and create lasting memories.

The consumer survey, conducted by NIQ from October 29 to November 1, 2024, involved a total of 1,316 participants aged 18-54 through various online channels. Among the respondents, 20% were male and 80% were female, with the majority (76%) being married, engaged, or in a relationship. Commissioned by De Beers Group, NIQ managed the design and data analysis of the survey.

Hashtag: #2025Gifting #Survey #NaturalDiamonds





The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About De Beers Group

Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with diamond mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers Jewellers and Forevermark, and other pioneering solutions such as diamond sourcing and traceability initiatives Tracr and GemFair. De Beers Group also provides leading services and technology to the diamond industry in the form of education and laboratory services via De Beers Institute of Diamonds and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology systems via De Beers Group Ignite. De Beers Group is committed to ‘,’ a holistic and integrated approach for creating a better future – where safety, human rights and ethical integrity continue to be paramount; where communities thrive and the environment is protected; and where there are equal opportunities for all. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo-American plc group. For further information, visit .

Chery Named Official Partner of the Asia International Security Summit & Expo (AISSE) 2025 in Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Jan. 21, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The AISSE 2025 will take place from January 20 to 22, 2025, at the Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC), and Chery is proud to be the event’s Official VIP Vehicle Partner.

The fleet of 60 SUVs, including Chery’s TIGGO 7 PRO and TIGGO 8 PRO, will transport distinguished guests and delegates from 15 countries to the Putrajaya International Convention Centre (PICC), ensuring a seamless and high-quality travel experience throughout the event.

During the handover ceremony, Michael Chew and Cheng Nam Weng, Chery Malaysia’s Vice Presidents, officially handed over the vehicles to the event organizers, Anita Jacobson, Group Managing Director of Alpine Group Services, and Marina Yahya, Business Advisor of Alpine Group Services. The event was witnessed by DCP Gilberd Philip Layang, Deputy Director of the Logistics and Technology Department, Royal Malaysia Police (PDRM), and SAC Zakaria Ismail, District Commander of Bangi, Selangor.


AISSE 2025 will bring together 200 security organizations and industry stakeholders worldwide. “It is such an honour to be providing our fleet of cars for the inaugural AISSE 2025 event. Our cars incorporate the latest Chery technologies from safety to comfort for both the passenger and driver, while ensuring affordability for consumers and minimizing environmental impact,” said Michael Chew, Vice President of Chery Malaysia.

Beyond providing official vehicles, Chery will also feature an exclusive showcase at the AISSE 2025 expo, where attendees can view and test-drive Chery’s TIGGO 7 PRO and TIGGO 8 PRO.

Chery is actively engaged in public welfare, participating in various global initiatives such as environmental protection, targeted poverty alleviation, and educational donations. For instance, Chery donated $6 million to support UNICEF’s “Global Education Thematic Programme,” demonstrating its commitment to fulfilling the social responsibilities of a Chinese brand in the international community.

Chery has been honored five times as one of the “Top 20 Best Overseas Image Enterprises” by SASAC and CICG. In the 2024 Kantar BrandZ Top 50 Chinese Global Brand Builders report, Chery was ranked first in the automotive category. Chery once again secured the top spot for the highest-ranked domestic brand in J.D. Power’s 2024 China Initial Quality Study (IQS), marking the brand’s third major achievement in 2024, following its first-place rankings in the China Sales Satisfaction Index (SSI) and the China Automotive Performance, Execution, and Layout (APEAL) studies.

Families Settle into New Homes as Nam Khan 3 Hydropower Project Progresses

Families Settle into New Homes as Nam Khan 3 Hydropower Project Progresses
Nam Khan 3 Hydropower Dam

In Laos, the peaceful life of many villages is often disrupted by major infrastructure development projects aimed at promoting greater economic benefit. One such project affected several villages in northern Luang Prabang Province, when both public and private industries decided to build the Nam Khan 3 Hydropower Plant on the Khan River in Xieng Nguen district, between Donmo village and Khonvaiy village on 25 June, 2012.