DUBAI, UAE – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2024 – The Best Places to Work organization has officially announced the Top 50 Best Places to Work in the Middle East for 2024, showcasing the companies that lead the way in employee satisfaction, engagement, and workplace culture. This year’s rankings highlight organizations that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to creating positive work environments, fostering employee growth, and embracing innovative people practices.
Leading the 2024 list is Eand, a global telecommunications leader, committed to innovation and delivering cutting-edge technology solutions to millions of customers worldwide. Following closely behind are AstraZeneca, Roshn, and First Milling Company, all of which have made remarkable strides in employee engagement and corporate culture. The list also features a diverse array of organizations from various industries, all united by a shared commitment to creating meaningful and motivating workplaces.
The Best Places to Work certification recognizes the highest performing employers based on a comprehensive assessment of their HR practices and employee experience. This year, over 500 companies from across the region were evaluated on key topics such as leadershipeffectiveness, people strategy, employee engagement, corporate social responsibility, and work-life balance.
The Top 50 Best Places to Work in the Middle East for 2024 include:
Eand
AstraZeneca
Roshn
First Milling Company
Novo Nordisk
Alnahdi Office
Novartis
Royal Commission for AlUla
Pfizer
Al Ramz
Matarat Holding
BSH
BAT
Schneider Electric
Viatris
Saudi Xerox
International Maritime Industries
Falak Investment Hub
AXS
Pickalbatros Hotels & Resorts
JTI
Jordan Ahli Bank
Acino
Magrabi
TAQA Water Solutions
Estarta
Al Rugaib Holding
Islamic Development Bank
Bidaya Finance
UTEC
Alsagr
Abdullah Hashim
Remat
Saudia Cargo
Money For Finance
Rewaa
Bank Muscat
Emkan Education
Apcofs
RIYAD STEEL
Jahez
Panda
Saudi Air Navigation Services
Extra
Albir
Madar
Jana MS
Sfana
Backyardex
Bindawood
Insights from this year’s program highlight successful organizations prioritizing well-being, flexibility, and equity, standing out in 2024 for navigating challenges while maintaining high employee engagement.
Best Places to Work, a global certification program, recognizes companies excelling in workplace culture and employee experience, providing insights to enhance HR practices and drive success.
Partnering with over 500 companies in the Middle East, it helps organizations optimize people strategies and foster thriving workplaces.
For more information, please visit the program website: www.bestplacestoworkfor.org. Hashtag: #BestPlacesToWork
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2024 – Commerce Dot Com (CDC) concludes its milestone 25th anniversary year on a high note by receiving the esteemed Digitech BestBrands Award 2024 – Visionary Tech. The recognition as a Visionary Tech leader underscores CDC’s pivotal role in shaping the landscape of procurement through cutting-edge technology and transformative solutions.
Datuk Muzafar receiving the Brandlaureate Digitech BestBrands Award 2024 – Visionary Tech.
CDC’s Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Muzafar Kamal Shahaluddin, expressed his gratitude for this accolade, “This award is a fitting conclusion to an extraordinary year for CDC. Celebrating our 25th anniversary with such recognition is a testament to the visionary leadership and relentless efforts of our team. Over the years, we have embraced innovation to address the evolving needs of procurement, and this award reinforces our commitment to staying ahead in the digital transformation journey.”
Over the past 25 years, CDC has introduced innovative systems and set new standards, driving efficiency and transparency in procurement processes. This year alone, CDC launched several initiatives, including Strong Ethics Nurture Integrity, a campaign that underscores CDC’s unwavering commitment to ethical practices and integrity in all its operations.
As CDC commemorates its 25th anniversary, the Digitech BestBrands Award 2024 serves as a fitting tribute to its enduring legacy. This achievement is a celebration of past successes and a beacon for future aspirations. Datuk Muzafar Kamal Shahaluddin further noted that, “This recognition is a culmination of our 25-year journey. It celebrates not only the milestones we’ve achieved but also the team’s shared vision and dedication to innovation and excellence. It’s a proud moment for all of us at CDC.”
Throughout the year, CDC has engaged in numerous activities that exemplify its commitment to innovation and excellence. These include participation in industry forums to share insights and collaborative projects with partners to advance digital transformation goals.
This award highlights CDC’s mission to continually set new standards in procurement while aligning with its core values of innovation, integrity, and progress. It reflects CDC’s unwavering commitment to delivering solutions that contribute to sustainable and inclusive growth. As the procurement sector evolves, CDC remains dedicated to embracing emerging technologies and addressing the challenges of a dynamic marketplace.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Commerce Dot Com Sdn Bhd
Established in 1999 as a procurement solutions provider, Commerce Dot Com Sdn. Bhd. (CDC) is a government-linked company under the Ministry of Finance whereby the ministry’s corporate arm, Ministry of Finance (Incorporated), holds a golden share in the company. With over 20 years of experience under its belt, CDC has established itself as among the leading procurement solutions providers in Malaysia and has a well-earned reputation for providing exceptional services through its innovative solutions.
PHU QUOC, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2024 – Phu Quoc is rapidly solidifying its position as a new luxury resort paradise in the world, with the arrival of renowned hospitality brands, including Rixos, Ritz-Carlton Reserve and The Luxury Collection in the near future.
This December represents a pivotal moment for Phu Quoc and Vietnam, with two events being hailed as ‘historic milestones’ for the country’s high-end resort tourism sector.
Sun Group broke ground on the Aspira Tower project in Hon Thom island.
On December 5, Sun Group signed an agreement with Accor & Ennismore to bring the world-renowned Rixos brand to Hon Thom, Phu Quoc. Once launched, Rixos Phu Quoc will become the first all-inclusive luxury resort in Southeast Asia.
It allows guests to enjoy a wide range of personalised services, amenities, entertainment and relaxation at the highest level. With a one-time package price, guests can fully explore the Sun Paradise Land ecosystem in Phu Quoc, including visiting Sunset Town, riding the world’s longest three-rope cable car and admiring world-class art performances.
On December 10, Sun Group officially broke ground on the Aspira Tower project, which has a total investment of US$512 million (VND13 trillion). The tower’s base, featuring undulating architectural layers, will include multi-functional spaces, including a gaming centre with a separate entrance, outdoor dining areas, infinity pools and Jacuzzis.
Slated to debut in 2027, the tower will host a hotel under The Luxury Collection brand by Marriott International and the Sun Iconic Hub complex with top-tier amenities.
Praised by experts as an ‘unprecedented design,’ the structure is expected to become the ‘second sail-shaped tower of the world,’ attracting millions of visitors to Vietnam annually, much like the iconic Burj Al Arab in Dubai, UAE.
Beyond Rixos Phu Quoc and The Luxury Collection, the global elite also focus on the Ritz-Carlton Reserve resort, designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley on Hon Thom island. At the end of 2023, Sun Group signed with Marriott International for operation and management cooperation on this project.
World-class art performances and fireworks 365 day a year in the Sun Paradise Land in Phu Quoc.
The potential of a ‘prominent hub in Asia’
Before the arrival of new luxury brands, Phu Quoc had already made its mark on the international tourism map with its iconic collection of resorts frequently honoured worldwide. These include the masterpiece JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, themed around an unprecedented university concept, and La Festa Phu Quoc, the first hotel in Hilton’s Curio Collection in Southeast Asia, featuring balconies offering direct views of year-round firework displays.
Notably, the Sun Paradise Land ecosystem in Phu Quoc has continuously been enriched with new experiences over the past two years, becoming the ‘trump card’ that has drawn the attention of global hospitality giants.
This year, Phu Quoc welcomed about 6 million visitors, including nearly 1 million international arrivals, surpassing 92 per cent of the annual plan and achieving a 70 per cent year-on-year increase.
The influx of top-tier hospitality brands is expected to boost direct flight routes to Phu Quoc. Rixos, a brand originating in Turkey and thriving in the Middle East, is expected to help Pearl Island welcome new routes from the UAE, Qatar or Oman – one of the busiest transit hubs. Meanwhile, brands like The Luxury Collection and Ritz Carlton Reserve will attract ‘super luxury’ individuals, business moguls and billionaires.
Mehmet Kin, Vice President of Crystal Bay Group, said: “Thailand with Phuket and Pattaya used to be very famous destinations, but in my opinion, Phu Quoc is much better because the infrastructure is ready, the facilities are new, the services are superior and especially, the people always smile. That is very important.”
According to many leading global travel businesses, with the potential Phu Quoc currently holds, this island should be compared to world-class tourism icons like Hawaii or the Maldives.
“When infrastructure, including roads and tourist attractions, are fully developed, we will witness the emergence of the ‘Hawaii of the East,'” added Hong Jung Min, CEO of Hanatour Vietnam.
CAIRO, EGYPT – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2024 – Eand, Novo Nordisk, BSH, Schneider Electric, Viatris, Pickalbatros Hotels & Resorts, and Sinai White Cement have been recognized as the top 7 best places to work in Egypt for 2024, according to the prestigious Best Places to Work certification program.
Eand, a global technology group, secured the top position for its unwavering commitment to innovation, collaboration, and employee empowerment. Coming in second is Novo Nordisk, a healthcare leader dedicated to driving purpose and well-being for employees while revolutionizing diabetes care. In third place is BSH, a global leader in home appliances, recognized for fostering a culture of inclusion and excellence.
Schneider Electric, a global specialist in energy management and automation, earned the fourth position for prioritizing sustainability, professional growth, and a positive work environment. Ranking fifth is Viatris, a healthcare company committed to empowering employees and delivering access to vital medicines worldwide.
Pickalbatros Hotels & Resorts, a renowned name in the hospitality industry, secured sixth place for its efforts in creating rewarding and engaging opportunities for its workforce. Rounding out the top 7 is Sinai White Cement, recognized for its strong workplace culture and dedication to operational excellence in the industrial sector.
Egypt’s top-performing organizations this year have distinguished themselves through their commitment to creating supportive, engaging, and forward-thinking workplaces that inspire employees to thrive.
Best Places to Work is an internationally recognized certification program that identifies and honors exceptional workplaces across the globe. By evaluating HR practices and employee experiences, the program provides valuable insights for companies to enhance engagement, improve organizational effectiveness, and celebrate their achievements.
For more information, please visit the program website: www.bestplacestoworkfor.org. Hashtag: #BestPlacesToWork
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2024 –Vinhomes Joint Stock Company and Nomura Real Estate Group (Japan) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for comprehensive strategic cooperation in key areas, including residential real estate, commercial real estate, and logistics, as well as other sectors related to real estate. This partnership aims to leverage the strengths of both parties to provide the market with groundbreaking products that meet international standards.
Vinhomes and Nomura Real Estate will cooperate closely in the following areas: housing development, commercial real estate, logistics centers, and other real estate-related sectors.
Accordingly, Vinhomes and Nomura Real Estate will cooperate closely in the following areas: housing development (both high-rise and low-rise), commercial real estate (shopping malls and office buildings), logistics centers, and other real estate-related sectors. Following the signing of the agreement, the leading Japanese corporation will make significant investments in Vinhomes’ urban areas and related real estate projects across the country in the near future.
With Nomura Real Estate’s extensive experience in Japan and international markets, combined with Vinhomes’ strong reputation and in-depth understanding of the domestic market, this strategic collaboration is expected to deliver world-class urban projects, contributing to the improvement of living standards and infrastructure in Vietnam.
Currently, Nomura Real Estate Group and Vinhomes are actively expanding their cooperation in real estate projects, including Vinhomes Royal Island (Vu Yen, Hai Phong) and Vinhomes Grand Park (Thu Duc, Ho Chi Minh City).
Mr. Matsuo Daisaku, President and Representative Director of Nomura Real Estate, said:“Nomura Real Estate is developing large-scale urban projects both in Japan and overseas, and Vietnam is one of our most important markets. Starting with the Vinhomes Grand Park project in 2019 and now Vinhomes Royal Island, Nomura and Vinhomes have built a trusted partnership. We believe that this comprehensive cooperation agreement will allow us to further utilize our strengths to drive urban development in Vietnam.”
Ms. Nguyen Dieu Linh, Vice Chairwoman of Vingroup’s Board of Directors, said:Alongside other brands within Vingroup’s ecosystem, Vinhomes is working closely with international partners to create world-class products that meet the needs of global customers. I am confident that, with the cooperation of Nomura Real Estate, Vinhomes will continue to deliver exceptional real estate projects, contributing to raising living standards in our urban areas and fostering the sustainable development of Vietnam’s real estate market.“
Vinhomes, a leading real estate investor in Vietnam under Vingroup, is currently operating and managing 30 urban projects nationwide, continuously expanding its presence in rapidly developing provinces and cities with economic and tourism advantages. In each project, Vinhomes focuses on developing international-class metropolises with civilized communities to bring Vietnamese people and the international community high-class amenities and quality of life.
Nomura Real Estate Group is one of the major real estate groups in Japan, operating in the fields of housing development, commercial real estate and real estate services. The Group is also expanding its operations in Asian countries, where real estate demand is growing strongly due to economic growth. Since entering the Vietnamese market in 2015, Nomura Real Estate has participated in eight housing and office projects, primarily in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Hashtag: #Vinhomes
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2024 – WePlay App will team up with Alfea from the internationally renowned music group G22 for an exclusive live stream on the WePlay platform on December 20th at 8 PM. This Christmas special promises an interactive and entertaining experience, allowing fans to connect closely with Alfea.
Alfea will delight the audience in this collaboration with her unique musical style and captivating charm. The live stream will also feature fun games, fan Q&A sessions, and limited-edition prize draws, adding to the festive excitement. This event marks Alfea’s first collaboration with the WePlay platform, symbolizing a powerful partnership and an important step in creating more exciting content for users.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About WePlay App
WePlay is an entertainment application that combines gaming and social features, with over 100 million downloads worldwide and frequently topping app charts in various countries. In the Philippines, WePlay has attracted nearly a million enthusiastic players. By collaborating with globally renowned artists, WePlay continues to innovate in entertainment content, creating a more vibrant digital social community.
About G22 and Alfea
G22 is a globally popular pop music group known for its talented and distinctive members. As a key member of the group, Alfea has won countless fans with her soulful singing and unique personal charm.
We look forward to celebrating Christmas with you!
JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2024 – Xanh SM, Vietnam’s all-electric mobility service provider, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with nine major partners in Indonesia, namely XL Axiata Business Solutions, Lippo,Bank Central Asia (BCA), ASRI, VISA, Huawei, Lotte Group, Vietjet, and FPT. This event underscores Xanh SM’s credibility and prospects for expansion in Southeast Asia, while reaffirming the company’s commitment to driving the green transportation revolution in the region and creating a better life for all.
Through this collaboration, Xanh SM and its partners are joining forces to develop sustainable mobility solutions, delivering tangible value and exceptional experiences to customers in Indonesia.
Xanh SM is rapidly emerging as a symbol of green, sustainable, and technologically advanced mobility in Vietnam. With an electric transportation ecosystem designed to deliver modern, eco-friendly travel experiences, the ride-hailing brand has solidified its pioneering leadership with the official launch of its services in Indonesia on December 18.
At the signing ceremony, Xanh SM also announced strategic partnerships with nine influential local organizations, including XL Axiata Business Solutions, Lippo, Bank Central Asia (BCA), ASRI, VISA, Huawei, Lotte Group, Vietjet, and FPT. The esteemed partners pledged their support for Xanh SM in developing sustainable mobility solutions that bring tangible benefits and deliver unparalleled experiences to the community.
XL Axiata, one of Indonesia’s largest telecommunications providers, through XL Axiata Business Solutions (XLABS), will deliver ICT and IoT solutions for Xanh SM’s electric fleet. Vehicles will be equipped with IoT devices connected to XL Axiata’s network, enabling real-time monitoring of location, battery status, and operational data. The system also optimizes routes, provides essential information to drivers, and supports connectivity via customized SIM cards tailored to business needs.
Lippo, an ecosystem in real estate, retail, healthcare, and telecommunications, will partner with Xanh SM to offer a comprehensive range of services, including providing passenger pickup points, spreading community awareness on green lifestyles, and integrating sustainable urban development projects that Lippo is currently working on.
PT Bank Central Asia Tbk (BCA), recognized as one of the leading banks in Indonesia, will collaborate with Xanh SM to offer exclusive financial packages that enhance customer accessibility to Xanh SM services. BCA will also support awareness campaigns and events that promote sustainable mobility.
ASRI, one of Indonesia’s foremost real estate developers, will facilitate the deployment of Xanh SM’s green taxi services at three of its premier shopping centers: ASHTA District 8, PIK Avenue, and Mall of Indonesia. Optimized pick-up and drop-off zones will ensure convenient customer access.
VISA, a leading global payment platform, will collaborate with Xanh SM to launch exclusive promotional programs and integrate seamless cashless payment solutions, enhancing customer convenience and satisfaction. VISA will also work with Xanh SM to engage its extensive network of more than 50 major banking partners in Indonesia.
Huawei, a leading provider of ICT infrastructure and smart devices, will collaborate with Xanh SM to provide Huawei Cloud infrastructure, leverage AI and Big Data integrations, and jointly promote the premium 5-star electric taxi service to Huawei’s extensive network of partners and customers in the Asia-Pacific Region.
Lotte Group, a leading retail conglomerate, will partner with Xanh SM to establish parking and pick-up points at flagship shopping destinations, including Lotte Shopping Avenue. This partnership is set to improve shopping experiences while promoting eco-friendly urban transportation.
Vietjet, a leading new-age airline with an extensive flight network across the Asia-Pacific region, will partner with Xanh SM to diversify convenient services for residents and tourists, promote tourism, and attract investment in Vietnam, Indonesia and beyond. This comprehensive partnership aims to offer modern, eco-friendly, and cost-effective travel experiences while fostering sustainable development.
FPT, a leading technology corporation, is joining forces with Xanh SM to prioritize the use of electric taxi services for employees in Indonesia. This collaboration will also feature impactful co-branding and marketing campaigns aimed at inspiring FPT’s customers and partners to embrace eco-friendly solutions.
At the event, Mr. Nguyen Van Thanh, Global CEO of Xanh SM, said, “As a trailblazer in sustainable mobility, Xanh SM is proud to introduce our innovative, eco-friendly transportation solutions to Indonesia. Partnerships with these leading firms will enable us to expand our mission of environmental protection and improve quality of life across Southeast Asia and beyond.”
Committed to fostering electric mobility and sustainable growth, Xanh SM remains at the forefront of this revolution, delivering substantial and enduring benefits to communities worldwide. Having expanded its operations to Vietnam, Laos, and Indonesia, Xanh SM is making electric transportation more accessible to everyone through innovative mobility solutions.
Hashtag: #XanhSM #greenmobility
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Xanh SM
Xanh SM is a pioneer in electric mobility from Vietnam. It offers a green, sustainable, and technology-driven transportation ecosystem. Its vision is to accelerate the world’s green, sustainable transportation transformation, contributing to preserving the planet for future generations.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2024 – Chow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited (CTF Life) has become the exclusive Founding Insurance Partner of Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP), forming strategic partnership to foster the integrated development of sports, culture and tourism. Set to officially open in the first quarter of 2025, KTSP is poised to become the largest integrated sports and entertainment landmark in Hong Kong. CTF Life will be in support of KTSP’s pursuit in bringing international events to Hong Kong, reinforcing the city’s position as the “Events Capital of Asia”.
John Sharkey, Project Director of KTSP (left); Man Kit Ip, Chief Executive Officer of CTF Life (middle) and Ellick Tsui, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Chief Financial Officer of CTF Life (right) celebrate the partnership, under which CTF Life has become the exclusive Founding Insurance Partner of KTSP and the Presenting Partner of the Kai Tak Arena Grand Hall.
The 28-hectare KTSP consists of three main venues, Kai Tak Stadium, Kai Tak Arena and Youth Sports Ground. CTF Life has become the Presenting Partner of the Kai Tak Arena Grand Hall, where CTF Life and KTSP will bring top international sports and entertainment events, and turn the venue into a community sports hub to promote the culture of “Sports for All” and build a healthy and vibrant community.
Mr. John SHARKEY, Project Director of KTSP, stated: “We are delighted with CTF Life becoming the exclusive Founding Insurance Partner of Kai Tak Sports Park and we are extremely grateful for this fantastic commitment. Together, we will aim to promote sports, culture, and tourism development through bringing in more international events, supporting ‘Fencing Plus’ training programs in the community and enhancing professionalism with athlete development.”
Mr. Man Kit IP, Chief Executive Officer of CTF Life, said: “CTF Life is very honoured to be the exclusive Founding Insurance Partner of KTSP, creating value beyond sportsmanship. As we celebrate our journey towards 40th anniversary, this partnership underscores our robust financial strength. With the world-class venues at KTSP expected to host a wide range of international events, CTF Life looks forward to promoting our brand to a wider customer base at home and abroad, enhancing customer experience, and supporting the development of Hong Kong’s mega events economy and its sports sector.”
The strategic partnership of KTSP and CTF Life will support HKSAR Government in fostering sports development in Hong Kong, through co-organising Kai Tak Sports Initiative “Fencing Plus” Training Programme. The programme will feature selection and training sessions designed to discover and cultivate a new generation of elite fencing athletes for Hong Kong, grooming them as future world champions. CTF Life will also establish the “MyFuture Fencer Training Headquarter” at the Kai Tak Mall, building brand awareness among a wider customer base, providing customers and their loved ones with innovative and diverse life experiences ranging from wellbeing and growth to healthcare and legacy, while continuing to connect the community and create value beyond insurance.
Hashtag: #CTFLife
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Kai Tak Sports Park
Kai Tak Sports Park is a fully integrated sports, leisure and entertainment destination. The 28-hectare Sports Park will be part of the redevelopment on the site of the old Hong Kong International Airport in Kai Tak. The Sports Park features a 50,000-seat Main Stadium (named Kai Tak Stadium) with a retractable roof, Indoor Sport Centre (named Kai Tak Arena) with the flexibility to host community sports and events of up to 10,000 seats, and a Public Sports Ground (named Kai Tak Youth Sports Ground) with a capacity of 5,000 seats. These venues will be complemented with extensive public open spaces for events and leisure together with retail and harbour front dining spaces.
About CTF Life
Chow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited (“CTF Life”) is proud of its rich, nearly 40-year legacy in Hong Kong. CTF Life is a wholly-owned subsidiary of NWS Holdings Limited (Hong Kong Stock Code: 659) and one of the most well-established life insurance companies in Hong Kong. As a member of Chow Tai Fook Enterprises Limited, CTF Life consistently strengthens its collaboration with the diverse conglomerate of the Cheng family (“Chow Tai Fook Group” or “the Group”) to support customers and their loved ones in navigating life’s journey with personalised planning solutions, lifelong protection and diverse lifestyle experiences. By leveraging the Group’s robust financial strength and strategic investments across the globe, CTF Life aspires to become a leading insurance company in Asia while continuously creating value beyond insurance.