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World Famous Snow Festival Held in Sapporo Strives for Sustainability amid “Unprecedented Challenges” Caused by Climate Change

SAPPORO, Japan, Jan. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 75th Sapporo Snow Festival will be held on February 4 – 11, 2025, in the City of Sapporo, Japan’s Northern Capital. As one of the world’s largest snow sculpture festivals, the city will be transformed into a winter wonderland featuring over 200 snow sculptures, some towering over 12 meters tall. With 2 million people from around the globe attending each year, the festival has become one of the most anticipated events on Japan’s calendar.

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However, the festival is currently facing a variety of unprecedented challenges. There are financial problems arising due to the increased operating costs and a decrease in advertising revenue, as well as a shortage of large sculpture production staff. Additionally, the festival is facing the ongoing threat of global warming. In recent years, increasingly irregular snowfall patterns have made it harder to gather the required amount of snow, and the rising temperatures are causing the sculptures to melt and lose their shape. Hidenori Takagi, a veteran snow sculpture maker reflects, “When I started (17 years ago), global warming wasn’t as terrible and the temperatures tended to be low. But these days, it can get up to 5 to 6 degrees, which melts the snow, and we lose all our progress.”

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To address these impending issues, the city is currently exploring ways to create a more sustainable festival. As Tomonori Aoyama, Director General for Sapporo City Tourism & MICE Promotion Department, states, “To address the unprecedented challenges, we need to find imaginative solutions with the help of domestic and international co-operation.” This year, to limit carbon dioxide emissions, there are hydrogen energy trials and solar panels in some areas of the festival.

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The snow sculptors are not deterred by the challenges ahead. Takagi shares the profound effect of the experience, saying, “Creating large snow sculptures is a big challenge. There are more and more things we must think about every year, from designing the models to building the sculptures, it takes about three months of preparation, which is extremely tough. But when people from all around the world come to see what we’ve made and we see their reactions, I know that it is worth doing. To put it a little dramatically — it feels like we’re receiving energy to live.”

Despite the ongoing challenges, Sapporo is taking on the task to preserve the Snow Festival tradition, while adapting to new changes. The City welcomes those who come and witness firsthand its efforts towards the future of the Snow Festival.

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Please refer to the links below for additional information about the festival and Sapporo tourism.

Snow Festival’s official website: https://www.snowfes.com/en/
The Untold Story behind the Sculptures: https://visit.sapporo.travel/topics/2025/01/16/the-sapporo-snow-festival-the-untold-story-behind-the-sculptures/
Sapporo City official tourism website: https://visit.sapporo.travel/

Synpulse appoints Prasanna Venkatesan as Senior Partner

SINGAPORE, Jan. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Synpulse, a leading consultancy for the financial services industry, is pleased to announce the promotion of Prasanna Venkatesan to Senior Partner, while also promoting Thomas Schaffner to Managing Partner.

Prasanna Venkatesan, Senior Partner and Global Head of Private Banking and Wealth Management
Prasanna Venkatesan, Senior Partner and Global Head of Private Banking and Wealth Management

Prasanna Venkatesan has been a part of Synpulse’s growth over the past 14 years. He joined when the firm had close to only 100 employees and has been contributing to its evolution into a global organisation with over 1,000 professionals. He has played a pivotal role as the Global Head of Private Banking and Wealth Management and leads the firm’s Regulatory, Risk, and Compliance practice worldwide.

His expertise includes large scale transformation, post-merger integration, non-financial risk management, financial crime compliance amongst others with focus on both data, AI/ML and target operating model design and implementation. He has deep experience in PBWM and Regulatory Compliance and Risk has helped deliver impactful business transformations in the industry.

Reflecting on his promotion, Prasanna Venkatesan said: “I am deeply honoured by this recognition and grateful to have been part of Synpulse’s extraordinary journey. I look forward to continuing to work with our talented teams and clients as we navigate the dynamic landscape of financial services.”

Yves Roesti, Managing Partner and CEO of Synpulse, commented: Prasanna Venkatesan’s promotion to Senior Partner is a reflection of his outstanding contributions and leadership within Synpulse. His dedication, expertise, and ability to drive transformative solutions have been instrumental in our success. We are excited to see Prasanna continue shaping the future of the firm.”

With this promotion, Synpulse reaffirms its commitment to recognising talent and driving excellence in delivering value for its clients worldwide.

Prasanna Venkatesan’s promotion is announced alongside Thomas Schaffner’s appointment as Managing Partner, highlighting Synpulse’s commitment to nurturing top talent and expanding its global presence.

About Synpulse  

Synpulse is a global professional services company and a valued partner of leading players in the financial services and related industries. We optimise the proximity to our clients and deep domain expertise to create sustainable value using technology as a business driver. Leveraging our strong network of over 100 ecosystem partners, we accompany our clients throughout their transformation journey – from strategy and development to implementation and management. With our tech powerhouse, Synpulse8, we collaborate with our clients to co-create digital experiences with innovative technologies and proprietary methods. Synpulse is powered by the passion and commitment of its more than 1000 employees from 21 offices who come from over 30 countries.

More information: www.synpulse.com.  

Media Contact
Synpulse, Anginn May, Communications Lead APAC, anginn.may@synpulse.com, +65 9796 8316

Over 4800 Lao Nationals Set to Face Deportation from the United States

More than 4,000 Lao nationals are among the over 1.4 million individuals in the United States with final deportation orders but not currently detained
US President Donald Trump speaks to journalists in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on January 30, 2025. (Photo by ROBERTO SCHMIDT / AFP)

More than 4,000 Lao nationals are among the over 1.4 million individuals in the United States with final deportation orders but not currently detained, according to a November report by the United States’ Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Ministry of Health pilots text message vaccine reminders for childhood immunizations

Launches text message vaccine reminders for childhood immunizations ceremony

On 30 January, the Ministry of Health celebrated the start of a 12-month pilot that will see text message (SMS) reminders sent to parents soon after their child turns 1-year-old.  

BRI Officially Launches BRI UMKM EXPO(RT) 2025 and Microfinance Outlook to Empower Indonesia’s MSMEs

TANGERANG, Indonesia, Jan. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (IDX: BBRI) officially launched BRI UMKM EXPO(RT) 2025, held alongside BRI Microfinance Outlook 2025 at ICE BSD City, Tangerang. The event was attended by key government officials, including Chairman of the People’s Consultative Assembly (MPR) Ahmad Muzani, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, Coordinating Minister for Community Empowerment Muhaimin Iskandar, Minister of Finance Sri Mulyani Indrawati, Minister of MSMEs Maman Abdurrahman, Deputy Minister of State-Owned Enterprises Kartika Wirjoatmodjo, and Deputy Minister of Trade Dyah Roro Esti.

Prominent government officials, including Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati and Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, join other esteemed leaders at the official launch of BRI UMKM EXPO(RT) 2025 and Microfinance Outlook
Prominent government officials, including Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati and Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, join other esteemed leaders at the official launch of BRI UMKM EXPO(RT) 2025 and Microfinance Outlook

“Presenting BRI UMKM EXPO(RT) 2025 alongside BRI Microfinance Outlook (MFO). We hope that the combination of these two events can support President Prabowo Subianto’s Asta Cita vision in creating inclusive, competitive, and sustainable economic growth,” said BRI President Director Sunarso.

On the same occasion, Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs RI Airlangga Hartarto appreciated BRI UMKM EXPO(RT) 2025, stating that the event is a proof of BRI’s commitment to empowering MSMEs. “This initiative by BRI, involving 1,000 MSMEs, is in line with President Prabowo’s Asta Cita vision to create high-quality job opportunities,” he emphasized.

With theme “Broadening MSME’s Global Outreach”, BRI UMKM EXPO(RT) 2025 aims to expand the market reach of Indonesian MSMEs and enhance the global competitiveness of local entrepreneurs.

BRI remains optimistic about Indonesia’s MSME business potential, aiming for business matching deals worth US$ 89.4 million throughout 2025, exceeding the US$ 81.3 million recorded in 2023.

Additionally, BRI is collaborating with the Ministry of Trade to introduce business matching sessions twice a month in 2025.

For more details about the event, visit briumkmexport.com.

BRI Microfinance Outlook 2025

Held alongside the expo, BRI Microfinance Outlook 2025 serves as a strategic forum discussing economic development, themed “Empowering the People’s Economy: A Pillar for Achieving Inclusive & Sustainable Growth.” focusing on community empowerment as the driving force behind a grassroots-based economy.

In her speech, Finance Minister Sri Mulyani Indrawati emphasized the crucial role of MSMEs in Indonesia’s economic landscape, as well as BRI’s active role as a state-owned enterprise (BUMN) in supporting this sector.

The forum features renowned international speakers, including ADB Chief Economist Albert Francis Park, Nobel Laureate Paul Romer, and Women’s World Banking Head Harsha Rodrigues, discussing strategies for strengthening inclusive finance.

For more information about BANK BRI, visit www.bri.co.id.

   

Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort Redefines Premium Beachfront Stays for Families and Travelers

BALI, Indonesia, Jan. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort is setting a new standard for beachfront luxury in Bali, blending timeless elegance with modern comfort in the heart of Kuta. This vibrant resort offers experiences for every type of traveler, whether you’re visiting for a family getaway, a romantic retreat, or a business trip. Here are the top reasons why Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort should be on your Bali itinerary this year.

Larger Suite Oceanfront at Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort. Wake up to breathtaking ocean views in the Larger Suite Oceanfront, a spacious retreat designed for ultimate relaxation. Featuring a private balcony, a separate living area, and a luxurious bathroom with a soaking tub, this suite offers an elevated stay experience. Perfect for couples or families, the suite blends modern comfort with Balinese charm, just steps away from Kuta Beach and vibrant shopping & dining at Beachwalk Mall.
Larger Suite Oceanfront at Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort. Wake up to breathtaking ocean views in the Larger Suite Oceanfront, a spacious retreat designed for ultimate relaxation. Featuring a private balcony, a separate living area, and a luxurious bathroom with a soaking tub, this suite offers an elevated stay experience. Perfect for couples or families, the suite blends modern comfort with Balinese charm, just steps away from Kuta Beach and vibrant shopping & dining at Beachwalk Mall.

1. Spacious Premium Rooms and Oceanfront Comfort Welcome Families, which offer private balconies with stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Families can enjoy the outdoor pool with panoramic views, while kids explore the Kids Club, giving parents a well-deserved break. For an upgraded Suite Experience, the Family Suite includes connected room with a sofa bed, kids’ tent amenities, buffet breakfast, Jewelry Box Afternoon Tea, and exclusive perks like a one-time minibar, VIP amenities, and a special family room setup. Kids dine free, and guests receive 15% off dining, including Sunday Brunch, making every moment special.

2. A Fresh New Look, welcoming spaces with a community vibe. The resort’s transformed lobby experience, the revitalized lobby perfect for coffee to pastries, mingle, enjoying live music, and have an exceptional evening at &More by Sheraton, the newest oceanfront venue perched high above the stunning Kuta Beach.

3. Culinary Excellence with Stunning Backdrops for every taste. Bene Italian Kitchen serves authentic Italian fare with a rooftop setting, &More by Sheraton is a social lounge featuring coffee, pastries, and creative dishes with oceanfront views and live music. Daily Social blends local and international flavors in a welcoming, community-friendly space. Every meal is more than just dining, each venue offers breathtaking views and the best sunset in Kuta, creating a true sensory journey.

4. Prime Beachfront Location in the Heart of Kuta, from nightlife to enjoying cocktails at the nearby WXYZ Bar at Aloft Bali Kuta, which is within the same complex, to local markets and a world-class shopping mall at Beachwalk, everything is within reach. Ashley Lai, Cluster General Manager, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort & Aloft Bali Kuta at Beachwalk, shared that ” It’s more than a place to stay, it’s a destination. With refreshed spaces, family-friendly experiences, and unmatched dining, we create moments that last a lifetime.” For more information and bookings, visit Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort.

TRUMP coin: the signal of crypto era and rise of memecoins by global broker Octa


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 31 January 2025 – Memecoins were on the rise in 2024. Their overall market capitalisation increased from $20 billion last January up to $120 billion in December 2024. Such coins as DOGE, PEPE, or SHIB have thrived, primarily driven by community support and innovative strategies. Some experts have even acknowledged meme coins as a viable crypto trend. TRUMP, a meme coin created by Donald Trump, the 45th and 47th U.S. President, has emerged as a speculative and rather controversial asset. However, it may still signal mass adoption of crypto, regulatory warm-ups and new crypto trends. Global broker Octa explains how the meme coin may impact the market.

Source: Shutterstock
Source: Shutterstock

TRUMP: launch and accelerated growth
Donald Trump surprised society on 17 January 2025, three days before his inauguration, by launching the meme coin TRUMP based on the Solana blockchain. Trump announced the launch on his official X and Truth Social accounts. The coin’s value quickly surged, particularly when it was listed on several CEX (centralised crypto exchanges) like ByBit. Within two days, it increased from $7 on 17 January to $75 on 19 January. The next day, when the President entered the White House, the price soared significantly. The minimum was around $38 per coin. At one point, the coin became the 19th most valuable crypto globally during its peak on 19 January. At the moment of writing the article, the coin ranks 25th on CoinMarketCap in terms of market capitalisation, outperforming popular memecoins like PEPE and, notably, 10-year-old XMR.

TRUMP is considered a memecoin since it has no inherent value, and the asset’s price entirely depends on the market sentiment: buyers and sellers can manipulate the price. Nonetheless, Trump’s fans and crypto enthusiasts have actively supported the coin. The volume of daily traded coins reached its maximum on the inauguration day, 20 January, and surpassed $52 billion.

Currently, the circulating supply accounts for almost a fifth of the whole supply: 200 million tokens. Another 800 million are controlled by Trump-owned entities. The developers plan to release the remaining tokens gradually within three years. However, many experts are concerned because the owner can ruin the market by selling the controlled assets.

MELANIA meme coin: launch and impact on the market
Following the TRUMP coin hype, Melania Trump announced the launch of her own meme coin, MELANIA. While its value almost reached $13 on 20 January, and a lot of crypto traders abandoned TRUMP to trade MELANIA, the asset’s price has dropped since then. The First Lady’s coin was officially presented by her incorporated company, MKT World LLC.

The coin has contributed to the Trump family’s crypto hype. There were even rumours that another coin from Ivanka Trump, the daughter of the elected President, was about to see the world. However, no official news or proof was released, so this could be fake.

The future of TRUMP
TRUMP has been a controversial asset. Some believe it signals ‘a new regulatory era, where governments see crypto as a technology to reach out to the masses directly’. Others are sure that the launch has undermined the credibility of the industry, as the coin is rather volatile and speculative. For example, a popular Bitcoin investor, Erik Voorhees, has criticised the asset.

‘Although TRUMP may be considered as a ‘rug pull’—a quickly abandoned coin—it may have potential longevity. One of the deciding factors is the remaining 80% of the supply and its future’, comments Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker. ‘For now, the future of the asset depends on the crypto society and its willingness to buy TRUMP. This is proved by the MELANIA launch, which shifted liquidity in its favour and significantly dropped the President’s token price.’

Considering the emotion-driven buying frenzy of the TRUMP coin, which potentially drove many newcomers to the crypto market, it’s likely to provoke another rise of memes from celebrities and influencers. While meme coins are known for their high returns, especially during the launch on CEX, they are very volatile and speculative. Traders should avoid quick decisions and overbudgeting to secure their funds.

What is more, it’s advised to beware of scams. For example, there are fake TRUMP tokens now. Moreover, hackers can try to capitalise on the meme hype. Just recently, scammers breached Nasdaq’s X account and promoted a fake meme coin, STONKS. It was launched the same day and was a copycat of a pre-existing memecoin on Solana. Despite this, the project’s market capitalisation reached $80 million. Several days later, the token’s price dropped.

Nonetheless, TRUMP can be considered an evidence of a crypto-favourable regulation. Since Donald Trump was elected as the U.S. President, crypto society has considered this as another proof of an anticipated bull run and crypto mass adoption. For example, Bitcoin hit another ATH (all-time-high) on the inauguration day. This is probably driven by the President’s crypto-related plans, such as industry deregulation or a potential strategic Bitcoin reserve.
Hashtag: #Octa

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

Octa

is an international CFD broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services used by clients from 180 countries who have opened more than 52 million trading accounts. To help its clients reach their investment goals, Octa offers free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools.

The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including the improvement of educational infrastructure and short-notice relief projects supporting local communities.

In the APAC region, Octa received the ‘Best Trading Platform Malaysia 2024’ and the ‘Most Reliable Broker Asia 2023’ awards from Brands and Business Magazine and International Global Forex Awards, respectively.

The President of Chula Meets with Cambodian Minister of Education, a Graduate of the Faculty of Education Strengthening Relations and Integrating Knowledge for Youth in the Region

BANGKOK, Jan. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Chulalongkorn University reaffirms its role as a regional education leader by strengthening ties with Cambodia. On January 17, 2025, Chulalongkorn University’s executive team, led by Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University and Chairman of the Council of University Presidents of Thailand (CUPT), paid a courtesy call on His Excellency Dr. Hang Chuon Naron, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth, and Sports of Cambodia, who also has the distinction of being an alumnus of Chulalongkorn University’s doctoral program in Education Management

Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University & Chairman of the Council of University Presidents of Thailand (CUPT), paid a courtesy call on His Excellency Dr. Hang Chuon Naron, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth, and Sports of Cambodia
Professor Dr. Wilert Puriwat, President of Chulalongkorn University & Chairman of the Council of University Presidents of Thailand (CUPT), paid a courtesy call on His Excellency Dr. Hang Chuon Naron, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education, Youth, and Sports of Cambodia

The purpose of this meeting was to further enhance cooperation in education and research, not only between Chulalongkorn University and Cambodia but also to strengthen educational ties between the two countries. The discussion highlighted the fact that education is key to improving quality of life and focused on the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in schools and universities to enhance teaching methods and increase access to education for youth across the region sustainably. This strategic dialogue underscores Chulalongkorn University’s commitment to promoting educational innovation and fostering open collaboration in ASEAN.

Additionally, the group visited the Institute of Technology of Cambodia (ITC) to explore the application of engineering and advanced technology in addressing environmental issues, solar energy generation, and the development of service robots. This visit was facilitated by Professor Dr. Po Kimtho, an alumnus of Chulalongkorn University’s Master’s program in Electronics and Communication Engineering.

Princess Pongmonirath Devi (Nina) Norodom, an alumnus of the Faculty of Communication Arts at Chulalongkorn University, has also played a significant role in representing Chulalongkorn’s impact in cultivating leaders and advancing Cambodian culture. During this visit, Princess Nina shared her impressions of her time at Chula and discussed possible academic and cultural collaborations between the two institutions. 

Dr. Hang Chuon Naron has been instrumental in driving educational reform in Cambodia, applying the knowledge and leadership skills gained at Chulalongkorn University to improve the country’s education system, reflecting the long-standing educational collaboration between the two countries. 

Furthermore, ten Chulalongkorn University alumni from Cambodia took part in the meeting with the minister, demonstrating the university’s popularity among Cambodian students. Many of these alumni have taken on significant roles in education, government, and industry in Cambodia. 

Dr. Hong Kimcheang, an alumnus of the Faculty of Education at Chulalongkorn University and currently the Director of Kampong Speu Institute of Technology (KSIT) and Assistant Minister of the Ministry of Education, played a key role in facilitating this collaboration. 

Currently, there are 11 Cambodian nationals studying and conducting research at Chulalongkorn University. This includes 7 undergraduate students from the Faculty of Dentistry, 1 undergraduate student from the Faculty of Science, 2 researchers from the Faculty of Nursing and the Institute of Social Science Research, and 1 staff member from the Faculty of Medicine.

Read the full article at https://www.chula.ac.th/en/news/212454/

About Chulalongkorn University

Chulalongkorn University has made the world’s top 50 university list for employment outcomes, which reflects both the high employment rate and workability of Chula graduates. The university is also listed as the best in Thailand for the 15th Consecutive Year (since 2009), according to the newly released QS World University Rankings 2024, putting Chula at 211th in the world, up from 244th last year.

Social Media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChulalongkornUniversity

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/chulauniversity

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/school/15101896/