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Cultural Beliefs, Spiritual Insights into ‘Nocturnal Deaths’ in Laos

Cultural Beliefs, Spiritual Insights into ‘Nocturnal Deaths’ in Laos
Shaman Txiaj Vwj Invites Spirits to his Altar, Thaj Neeb Healing Ceremony, Ua Neeb, Namla Village, Luang Namtha Province, Laos (photo: Tribal Music Asia)

Departing from this world during sleep is often perceived as tranquil and painless by some.

Scientifically referred to as “nocturnal death,” such episodes are frequently linked to sudden cardiac arrest or the progressive deterioration of heart function observed in congestive heart failure (CHF). However, in small or rural communities, these events might be attributed to supernatural causes, often involving ghosts and spirits. This is particularly prevalent among Hmong communities worldwide. Originally residing in China and Southeast Asia, including northern Vietnam, Thailand, and the eastern regions of Myanmar, the Hmong ethnic group is now the largest ethnic minority in Laos.

One of the periods most closely associated with the legend of sleep paralysis in Laos is the tumultuous era of the Vietnam War. During this time, numerous young Lao men were reported to have perished in their sleep, succumbing to a mysterious ailment later identified as “Sudden Unexplained Nocturnal Death Syndrome (SUNDS).”

According to the Los Angeles Times, SUNDS primarily affected Hmong men who had returned from the war in Northern Vietnam after being recruited by the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA). Between 1978 and 1981, 13 deaths were recorded, with 98 percent of them occurring between 10 pm and 8 am. In 1981, 26 Hmong men died under similar circumstances, raising alarm and sparking speculations about the cause of these mysterious deaths. 

But the most eerie aspect of these deaths was the fact that they exclusively affected men, sparing women and children from such occurrences.

While the evident reasons behind the mysterious deaths during sleep remain unknown, speculations suggest it could be due to exposure to chemical nerve agents during the Vietnam War. However, some members of the Hmong community believed that these deaths were a form of punishment by spirits for leaving and abandoning their homelands.

Most members of the Hmong community practice animism and naturalism. However, some of them also adopt the practice of Buddhism. That was the case for Meng Moua, a 34-year-old Hmong man from Vientiane Province.

Mysterious Passing Prompts Reflections on Spiritual Involvement

“It was during Lao New Year, the 14th of April in the afternoon, when it all happened,” Meng recalled.

Like in many households in Laos, Meng joined in the festivities with his wife and younger sister. However, they soon departed for temples at the invitation of his cousin to perform meritorious deeds for the occasion. Meng’s sister opted to remain behind to oversee the house during their absence.

During their visits to nine temples across Vientiane Capital, Meng received fortunes from five of them. Unfortunately, each fortune foretold bad luck, leaving Meng with a sense of impending misfortune and sadness for the immediate future.

“I could feel that something bad was going to happen,” he said.

A couple of hours later, Meng returned home. “I knocked on the door multiple times with no response from my sister. I could tell that it was very strange because it had never happened before.”

Meng broke into the room to find his sister lying still on her back, as though she were asleep. 

“I tried to wake her up; I shook her body, doing everything I could, but to no avail.” 

As he rushed her to the hospital, he heard a gasp, a sound that, according to the village elders, often signals a person’s final breath. Meng also knew it.

The doctors made every effort to revive his sister. However, she showed no response to any form of treatment, ultimately leading to her passing, he recalled, believing the spirits may have taken her.

In Laos, spiritual beliefs have long been intertwined with cultural practices, with notable phenomena like spirits taking one’s life during sleep being passed down through generations. This phenomenon, characterized by a feeling of being haunted while sleeping, holds deep roots in Lao folklore and history.

Shaman Says, Expert Elaborates

In an attempt to shed light on this phenomenon, a Hmong shaman named Vanghua Moua, who has practiced for over 15 years, offered insights into the spiritual beliefs surrounding dying during sleep among the Hmong people in Xieng Khuang, Laos.

“Their souls get eaten,” Vanghua explained, referring to spirits such as phi pop and phi phong. “These ghosts came from people who practiced black magic but failed to follow its rules. As a result, they turn into such ghosts and feed on humans’ souls, flesh, and blood to survive.”

To protect against these malevolent spirits, Vanghua suggested placing the skin of a hog badger  in front of one’s house and burning it.

“Once you burn the hog badger’s skin, it will send out a strong smell that could chase the ghosts [phi pop and phi phong] away.”

Phi pop is often depicted as a creature that likes to devour human viscera. It is known for its terrifying appearance and is feared for its predatory nature. Phi phong, on the other hand, is a ghost of northern folk beliefs in Thailand and Laos. It is also known as phi phao in the Isan region of Thailand. Phi phong is believed to be a spirit that can cause harm to humans if threatened, especially those who are spiritually weak or unprotected.

While some may view these beliefs as superstitious, Ian Baird, an anthropologist and professor at the University of Wisconsin – Madison who studies Lao society closely, argues that there is a specific reason behind these beliefs.

“Some people, especially in rural areas, benefit from these beliefs,” Baird explained. He cited the example of Nang Thiam, a village spirit believed to possess a woman in the village between March and June annually. When possessed, the woman advises the chief village on how to improve the village and gives advice on various matters.

“If you try to diminish this belief, it’s like you are trying to get rid of women’s rights,” he said.  Baird also emphasized the importance of understanding these beliefs from different perspectives rather than dismissing them as superstitious, as they may hold meaningful ideas behind them.

Ian added that beliefs in spirits and ghosts can serve as a form of social control, preventing people from engaging in harmful actions. 

He mentioned that in rural villages, some individuals are accused of being phi pop by the governor, not because they are actual spirits, but because they may have violated laws or caused disruptions in the community.

“If the village chief can’t legally get rid of those kinds of people, what do they do? They accuse them of being phi pops of course.”

“People should try to be more open-minded about the beliefs of others and try to understand them from different perspectives,” Ian concluded. “These beliefs may hold valuable insights into the culture and society of Laos.”

Despite the advancements in science and medicine, the legend of sleep paralysis and its spiritual connections continue to intrigue and mystify many in Laos and beyond.

Prudential ramps up hiring, bolsters support for newcomers to jumpstart their careers as financial representatives


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 March 2024 – Prudential Singapore (“Prudential”) and its financial advisory arm, Prudential Financial Advisers Singapore (“PFA”), plan to hire 800 financial representatives (“FRs”) through its Management Associate Programme (“MAP”) this year. This will boost its agency size to over 5,500 and help meet consumers’ growing demand for protection, medical and wealth services.

Financial representatives in Prudential’s 2024 Management Associate Programme cohort - (from left) Mr Tang Jia Hao, 25, a Wealth Manager with Prudential Financial Advisers (PFA) and Ms Charmaine Siow, 30, a Financial Consultant with Prudential Singapore.
Financial representatives in Prudential’s 2024 Management Associate Programme cohort – (from left) Mr Tang Jia Hao, 25, a Wealth Manager with Prudential Financial Advisers (PFA) and Ms Charmaine Siow, 30, a Financial Consultant with Prudential Singapore.

To better support new joiners to the industry, the company has enhanced its 2024 MAP. Now, they have an additional year to achieve their performance targets which means they have 36 months instead of 24 months to do so. This gives eligible FRs more time to learn the ropes of the insurance and financial services industry, develop their skills, and establish a robust client base for a successful career.

The MAP helps fresh university or polytechnic graduates and young professionals build their career as financial representatives. They will receive a monthly allowance based on their performance to support their transition to the role.[1]

According to Prudential’s recruitment data, the first two years are crucial for the new joiners to decide if they are cut out for the job. During this period, it is common for young FRs to leave for another industry. To better retain talent, Prudential is investing in programmes such as the MAP. It also has initiatives that are designed to support mid-career switchers and experienced industry professionals.

Mr Ben Tan, Chief Distribution Officer and Chief Corporate Development Officer, Prudential Singapore, said: “Being a successful financial representative and building trust with customers requires time, determination and commitment. We have observed that financial representatives who persist for at least two years are more likely to stay in their roles. By extending our support, we want to instil more confidence in aspiring financial representatives as they pursue a long and fulfilling career with Prudential.”

According to the Life Insurance Association (LIA) Singapore’s Protection Gap Study 2022, Singapore has a S$373 billion mortality protection gap and S$579 billion critical illness protection gap.[2] This means that Singaporeans are still under-insured and this can impact their financial security and well-being. There is an opportunity for more FRs to join the industry and help people bridge their protection gap.

Mr Tan added: “Insurance is a people business, and financial representatives often form lifelong relationships with their customers. They are there for our customers through life’s milestones, providing sound financial advice to address their needs and goals, and helping them prepare for the future. For those who have a passion for financial planning, enjoy engaging with customers, and want to impact people’s lives positively, a career in financial advisory may be a good fit.”

About Prudential’s 2024 Management Associate Programme (MAP) for Financial Representatives (FRs)

Prudential’s 2024 MAP is available to FRs appointed from 1 January 2024 onwards who are new to the industry or have less than two years of experience as FRs.[3]

As part of their onboarding, FRs will undergo a curated in-house training programme covering topics such as financial planning, plan construction, financial needs analysis, and investment and retirement planning, to help them develop their financial advisory skills and knowledge.

FRs under PFA will also undergo additional training on collective investment schemes[4] as the financial advisory firm’s offerings include wealth solutions and a wider range of insurance products including general insurance. These offerings complement Prudential’s core solutions, which include whole and term life, health, savings, retirement, and group insurance.

A variety of career and education opportunities are also available to cater to the diverse interests of FRs, including financial planning for individuals, legacy planning for high net worth customers, and employee benefits for corporate clients. FRs can also benefit from mentorship and coaching programmes where they can learn from their peers on how to build a long and sustainable career.

Prudential currently has more than 5,200 financial representatives in its tied agency and PFA.

Quotes from FRs in the 2024 MAP

Ms Charmaine Siow, 30, Financial Consultant, Prudential Singapore. She joined in January 2024 and was previously in a finance operations role before her career switch to Prudential.

“Trust and connections are key in insurance, and they don’t happen overnight. As a new entrant to the financial advisory sector, I need time to grow my network and establish myself with my customers. Having a longer period of support from Prudential gives me a stronger sense of security and optimism to succeed in this new career path.”

Mr Tang Jia Hao, 25, joined Prudential Financial Advisers (PFA) as a Wealth Manager in February 2024. He is in his final semester in university and will graduate in May.

“I’ve always been interested in financial planning, and that’s what motivated me to join Prudential as a Wealth Manager in my final semester. As someone who’s just starting out in my career, I appreciate being given more time to transition from student life to working life, and to learn the ‘ins and outs’ of the industry at my own pace. I also feel assured knowing that Prudential understands the challenges we face and supports us in achieving our career goals.”

For more information on how Prudential is supporting new entrants in their transition to a career as a Financial Representative, please visit: https://www.prudential.com.sg/joinpru or contact joinpru@prudential.com.sg.


[1] Terms and conditions apply.

[2] Source: Life Insurance Association Singapore’s Protection Gap Study 2022. https://www.lia.org.sg/media/3974/lia-pgs-2022-report_final_8-sep-2023.pdf

[3] Terms and conditions apply. For more information on the MAP and eligibility, please contact joinpru@prudential.com.sg.

[4] PFA wealth managers will need to pass and attain additional Capital Markets and Financial Advisory Services (CMFAS) certifications for collective investment schemes.

Hashtag: #PrudentialSingapore




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

About Prudential Assurance Company Singapore (Pte) Ltd (Prudential Singapore)

Prudential Assurance Company Singapore (Pte) Ltd is one of the top life insurance companies in Singapore, serving the financial and protection needs of the country’s citizens for 93 years. The company has an AA- Financial Strength Rating from leading credit rating agency Standard & Poor’s, with S$49.4 billion funds under management as at 31 December 2022. It delivers a suite of well-rounded product offerings in Protection, Savings and Investment through multiple distribution channels including a network of more than 5,200 financial representatives.

About Prudential Financial Advisers Singapore

Prudential Financial Advisers Singapore is the financial advisory arm of Prudential Singapore, one of Singapore’s leading life insurance companies. The company offers customers a range of insurance products and wealth advisory services. Prudential Financial Advisers Singapore is licensed and regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).

United States Provides Over USD 24 Million for UXO Clearance in Laos

(Photo: US Embassy)

The Government of the United States of America (US) has pledged a total of USD 24.2 million to the HALO Trust, a leading Unexploded Ordnance (UXO) clearance organization, to continue its operations in Savannakhet Province, Laos, until April 2025. 

Lifebuoy Unveils ‘Highlympics’, Advocating Preventive Health and Offering Fully Subsidised Health Screenings in Partnership with Doctor Anywhere

Lifebuoy’s ‘Highlympics’ features Shanti Pereira, Tyen Rasif and Mongchin Yeoh, empowering Singaporeans to better protect their health


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 March 2024 – Lifebuoy, the world’s number one leading hygiene soap brand, today announced the ‘Highlympics’, a challenge and initiative focusing on preventive health. In collaboration with Doctor Anywhere (DA), the ‘Highlympics’ campaign offers fully subsidised health screenings.

Highlympics Logo

This initiative comes at a crucial time in light of findings from a Lifebuoy – DA preventive health survey which revealed that a staggering 60% of respondents had not undergone any health screenings in the past 12 months. In fact, the prevalence of high blood cholesterol among Singapore residents has been on the rise, marking an increase from the statistics recorded in 20173.

Addressing this, the primary goal is to encourage consumers, especially the younger demographic, to foster a proactive mindset towards preventive health and health screenings. The campaign also emphasises that despite a healthy outward appearance, underlying issues may persist due to factors such as diet, stress, and lifestyle choices.

Lifebuoy Antibacterial Body Wash
Lifebuoy Antibacterial Body Wash

Empowering Everyone to Better Protect Their Health

To ensure accessibility, Lifebuoy has introduced a convenient method: consumers can scan a QR code sticker found on Lifebuoy’s body wash bottles to register for their fully subsidised health screening through the Doctor Anywhere platform.

“We aim to make a positive and lasting contribution to the holistic well-being for everyone, advocating for preventive health. With our rich history in germ protection, we are proud to work with Doctor Anywhere to cultivate a proactive mindset that prioritises prevention over cure,” said Poh Khim Yin, Global Lead for Lifebuoy.

“Our collaboration with Lifebuoy underscores our commitment to safeguarding the nation’s health. Through initiatives such as these, we aim to actively address chronic diseases through health screenings, and to empower individuals with knowledge on how to actively manage their health and well-being,” said Lim Wai Mun, Founder & CEO, Doctor Anywhere.

'Highlympics' competitors – Shanti Pereira, Tyen Rasif and Mongchin Yeoh
‘Highlympics’ competitors – Shanti Pereira, Tyen Rasif and Mongchin Yeoh

Introducing The ‘Highlympics’

The Lifebuoy ‘Highlympics’ features prominent participants such as record-breaking national sprinter Shanti Pereira, fitness coach and singer-songwriter Tyen Rasif, and beauty and lifestyle content creator Mongchin Yeoh, better known as Mongabong. The campaign explores the four crucial ‘highs’ – high blood sugar, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and the often-overlooked ‘high-giene’.

Highlympics
Highlympics

The trio of participants engaged in a friendly competition to determine the one with the lowest risk across the three ‘highs’. In addition, they also vied for the best reading in the innovative ‘high-giene’ category, utilising a germ detecting scanner to assess microbial presence on their palms, emphasising the importance of optimal hand hygiene in daily life.

Lifebuoy is present in 11% of households in Singapore and is the sixth most chosen brand in the world[1], available in over 100 countries. Since 2010, Lifebuoy has impacted over one billion people across 30 countries by collaborating with NGOs and governments to drive positive change through its large-scale behaviour change programs, which instil positive habits.[2]

Hashtag: #LifebuoyHighlympics

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

Lifebuoy

Lifebuoy is the world’s number one hygiene soap brand, sold in over 100 countries. Through the Lifebuoy brand, we aim to make a difference by creating quality, affordable products and promoting healthy hygiene habits. Since 2010, we have reached over 1 billion people through our handwashing programs.

Since the launch of the Lifebuoy brand in 1894, we have supported people in their quest for better personal hygiene. The classic red bar of soap and its distinctive medicated carbolic scent was synonymous with cleanliness throughout the twentieth century. Today, the brand is so much more. With its many soap variants and specially designed body washes. These, along with the range of liquid hand washes and hand hygiene gel, ensure daily hygiene and freshness for the entire family. For more information, please visit:

About Doctor Anywhere

Doctor Anywhere, a tech-led healthcare company, is committed to providing comprehensive care that encompasses primary care, specialist care, telehealth, preventive health, and wellness solutions. Their focus is on enhancing healthcare accessibility, improving health outcomes, and delivering a personalised, borderless, and inclusive healthcare experience.

Founded as a telemedicine platform in 2017 and one of Singapore’s Fastest Growing Companies today, Doctor Anywhere has expanded to become a regional healthcare provider, serving more than 2.5 million users in six Southeast Asian countries. For further details, please visit www.doctoranywhere.com

A Visionary Lighthouse: Kuwait’s Expo 2025 Osaka Pavilion Presents Country’s Past, Present and Future

  • Immersive exhibition invites visitors to discover the country’s past, present and future
  • NUSSLI, LAVA, and insglück collaborate for ambitious project

TOKYO, JAPAN – Newsaktuell – 5 March 2024 – The architecture and exhibition of the Kuwait Pavilion at the upcoming World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan were unveiled to the public today at a ceremony in Tokyo, Japan. Attended by distinguished guests from politics, business, media and society, the State of Kuwait and the partner companies involved in the project provided an in-depth view of the ambitious undertaking.

The Kuwait Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka (Image rights: LAVA)
The Kuwait Pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka (Image rights: LAVA)

“We are pleased and honored to unveil the State of Kuwait’s pavilion at Expo 2025 Osaka. It will serve to forge bridges of friendship and solidarity between Kuwait and Japan, as well as among all nations around the world,” says Salem Al-Watyan, Commissioner General of the State of Kuwait for Expo 2025 Osaka. “Fifty-four years ago, Kuwait was one of only four Arab nations present at Expo 1970 in Osaka. Since then, significant milestones in bilateral cooperation, partnership, and solidarity between Kuwait and Japan have been reached.”

Al-Watyan clarified that the working teams, starting from the executive team, the technical team, the content creation team, the media campaign team, and the coordination and follow-up team, are working with the Expo management and in cooperation with the main partner NUSSLI to prepare, equip and implement this major event.

The Kuwait pavilion’s exhibition will showcase how the country is striving for a sustainable future for its people and fostering its global standing through a diversified economy and focused national development. Often referred to as a lighthouse of culture and a beacon of tolerance for its contributions to Arab culture, arts and social work, Kuwait will present itself as a Visionary Lighthouse that lights up the Gulf region and is recognized globally.

“We eagerly anticipate the completion of our preparations to welcome visitors in 2025, with the aim of strengthening the close ties between the people of Kuwait and Japan, as well as fostering connections with people from around the world,” Al-Watyan concludes.

Proven Expertise for Ambitious Project
NUSSLI, as an expert in the construction of country pavilions, is building the Kuwait pavilion as total contractor. With its ninth Expo participation, the company is drawing on extensive expertise in all aspects of national presentations and, in particular, with Expo pavilions.

“The architectural concept with its unusual shapes and materials and the extraordinary combination of tradition and high-tech in the exhibition are a complex undertaking,” Harald Dosch, Director Business Development of NUSSLI said. “We are proud to support our client’s ambitious project and, together with our project partners, we will make Kuwait’s appearance at the Expo 2025 Osaka an outstanding success.”

It is the second time that NUSSLI is building the Kuwait pavilion after Expo 2015 Milano. Further project partners are LAVA for the architecture, and insglück for the exhibition, supported by schlaich bergermann partner for the structural engineering, and the Japanese architect of record Tokuoka Sekkei, and the Japanese construction company Mugishima Construction.

Exceptional Architecture Fusing Modern and Classical Elements
The pavilion’s audacious architecture was designed by architectural firm LAVA (Laboratory for Visionary Architecture). It picks up on Kuwait’s characteristic landscape and tradition and uses them as recurring elements throughout the pavilion. The open and inviting architecture with its opening wings symbolizes a welcoming gesture and stands for the country’s famous hospitality.

“The pavilion’s architecture seamlessly weaves Kuwait’s natural environment and traditions throughout its design,” explains Christian Tschersich, Associate Partner at LAVA. “With the concept of the Visionary Lighthouse, we aim to showcase Kuwait’s timeless vision for the future at Expo 2025 in Osaka.”

The pavilion is bright, and its façade illuminated at night, underlining the theme of the “Visionary Lighthouse”. The heart of the two-story pavilion with its grand roof is intended to inspire reflection on Kuwait’s future. Designed as a central dome, this main space is inspired by the idea of resting in the desert at night under the starry sky. The courtyard at the back of the pavilion is modeled on traditional Islamic architecture and features a beautiful garden with typical Kuwaiti planting.

Tradition Meets High-tech in Visually Stunning Exhibition
insglück, a creative agency specializing in live marketing and communication in space, is responsible for the content concept and developed the exhibition for the Kuwait Pavilion. It creatively combines tradition and high-tech. In four exhibition rooms, visitors experience a journey through the Gulf state’s past, present, and future. The multi-sensory exhibition uses interactive spatial staging and culminates in a vast explorative dome projection that makes the visit an immersive experience.

“The pavilion will be an absolute highlight, not only architecturally but also in terms of content, and impressively reflects Kuwait’s role as a Visionary Lighthouse,” CEO Christian Poswa of insglück says. “We are creating another Expo experience that will captivate millions of visitors in Osaka.”

The exhibition starts with a captivating pre-show that inspires visitors to visualize the secrets of Kuwait in a supersized pearl. They then enter a room that conveys the history of the trading nation in a desert setting. In the third exhibition room, the people of Kuwait take center stage. Along a large interactive wall, which is designed like a large tableau of Kuwaiti society, visitors encounter select personalities and projects that give them a first-hand experience of the country. Visitors are invited to interact in a playful way and provide a multifaceted insight into the country’s diverse culture, economy, and science. Via an impressive dome projection in the main show, visitors actively shape the future with their wishes and dreams for tomorrow.

Structural Concept Connecting Form and Function
As consulting engineers, schlaich bergermann partner (sbp) developed the structural concept of the Kuwait pavilion: “We developed a structural concept that meets the requirements for structural optimization as well as geometric form finding,” says Andreas Schnubel, Managing Director, sbp se. “It was a great pleasure to work with our partners from NUSSLI and LAVA again.”

Hashtag: #KuwaitPavilionatExpo2025Osaka

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

About Expo 2025 Osaka

The next World Expo will take place from April 13 to October 13, 2025, in Osaka, Japan, under the overarching theme “Designing Future Society for our Lives”. On the Expo site in Osaka, areas are planned for the sub-themes “Saving Lives”, “Empowering Lives” and “Connecting Lives”. The overall aim is for the Expo site to convey a realistic picture of a future society in which the 17 sustainability goals of the United Nations have been achieved. The Kuwait pavilion is located in the “Empowering Lives” sub-theme. With its conspicuous and inspiring façade, the pavilion will catch the eye and attract the public.

Further information


Concept and Implementation
NUSSLI Group is the total contractor responsible for the construction of the Kuwait Pavilion. LAVA designed the architecture. insglück is responsible for the content concept and exhibition design. The team was supported by schlaich bergermann partner with the structural design, and the Japanese architect of record Tokuoka Sekkei as well as the Japanese construction company Mugishima Construction.

About NUSSLI

As a leading provider of event infrastructures and construction services, NUSSLI helps to ensure that emotions can be experienced first-hand in sports, cultural and business projects. NUSSLI is at the forefront of international project management and the structural implementation of complex infrastructure for events and facilities that need to be realized under tight deadlines. With the invention of a wedge connection, the founder Heini Nüssli revolutionized event construction. Like the historic wedge connection, NUSSLI has been creating the connections that make unforgettable events possible ever since. In and with the projects, NUSSLI connects service providers and clients, the organizers with the audience, countries and cultures, expectations, and emotions. Connections – since 1941. For more information, please visit .

About LAVA

What if research, science, and architecture merged? The belief in the overarching relevance of these fields and their interdisciplinary, science-driven, and forward-looking implementation in architecture has characterized LAVA’s work since its founding. LAVA, a Laboratory for Visionary Architecture, was founded by Chris Bosse, Alexander Rieck and Tobias Wallisser in 2007 as an international network practice with offices in Berlin, Stuttgart and Sydney. The Lab reimagines architecture in the digital age, exploring new technological avenues to advance the field. Combining digital workflow, nature’s structural principles, and the latest digital fabrication technologies, LAVA strives to achieve ‘more with less’ – more architecture with less material, energy, time or cost. An international team of 100 architects across 4 locations envisions a future where architecture becomes a human-centric discipline creating spaces for well-being, meaningful interaction and inspiration while balancing human needs with environmental concerns, leveraging technology as a supporting tool. For further details please visit .

About insglück

insglück has been working successfully in the field of live marketing and communication in space since the turn of the millennium. The creative agency was already involved in the conception and implementation of the German Pavilion at Expo 2017 in Astana, Kazakhstan and the Kazakh Pavilion at Expo 2020 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Most recently, it was responsible for the content design of the German Garden at Floriade Expo 2022 in Almere, Netherlands. For more information, please visit www.insglueck.com.

Further partners
schlaich bergermann partner are structural consulting engineers /
Architect of record Tokuoka Sekkei Ltd. /
Construction company Mugishima Construction Co. Ltd. /

– Picture is available at

FHA-Food & Beverage – Singapore’s largest F&B trade show – returns with an expected 60,000 attendees

FHA-Food & Beverage will see the launch of its first-ever FHA Ultimate Meat Challenge in 2024!

  • Singapore’s biggest F&B trade show has set its dates for 23-26 April 2024, with an expected attendance of 60,000 and 70 international pavilions from 50 countries.
  • Experience the best of Germany as FHA-Food & Beverage 2024 chosen Country of Honour.
  • FHA-Food & Beverage will see the launch of its first-ever FHA Ultimate Meat Challenge in 2024!

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 March 2024 – FHA-Food & Beverage, Singapore’s biggest food and beverage trade show, has marked the dates of 23-26 April for its 2024 edition, readying itself to become the ultimate one-stop platform for Asia’s F&B professionals and industry leaders.

FHA-Food & Beverage 2023
FHA-Food & Beverage 2023

It will return across four days at the Singapore EXPO, spanning across 65,000 square meters with 70 international pavilions. It also anticipates the participation of over 1,500 exhibitors from 50 countries and regions, with expected attendance of 60,000 attendees.

Germany, The Country of Honour

Germany and Singapore maintain strong bilateral relations, acknowledging each other as pivotal allies in their respective regions, especially with the strategic signing of the Joint Declaration in 2022. The emphasis on sustainability and free trade in the signing reflects a commitment to shared values and goals and the achievement of surpassing one billion euros in German food and drinks exports to Southeast Asian countries, with Singapore as one of the key players, underscores the success of this economic collaboration.

This year, in joint collaboration with The German Federal Ministry of Food and Agriculture, FHA-Food & Beverage has appointed Germany as the Country of Honour, where 37 exhibitors will be present within the Germany Pavilion, making it a substantial and historically biggest German participation. Attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to immerse themselves in activities like the “German Day” presentations, wine-food pairings, and cooking shows.

First-ever Meat Competition at FHA-Food & Beverage

The volume of sales of meat in Singapore is projected to reach 502,400 tonnes[1] in 2026 from 411,100 tonnes in 2021. In response to this growth trend, FHA-Food & Beverage will be launching its inaugural meat competition, sponsored by the Meat & Livestock Australia, where professional butchers and chefs can come together to challenge their craftsmanship and creative usage of beef and lamb. The competition will take place on the 24th & 25th April, and it aims to provide consumer education as well as cooking ideas to promote beef and lamb consumption.

Nurturing Creative Spirits of Young Talents and Brewers Alike

Back for a second installment, the FHA Beer Awards 2024 seeks to showcase diversity and creativity of today’s brewing scene. Participants will be judged across 10 categories and winners of each category proceeding to participate in the Best of Show round.

Also in the second edition is Young Talents Escoffier – Singapore Selection. This competition serves as a platform for individuals under the age of 25 to showcase their culinary expertise.

For the first time at FHA-Food & Beverage, participants will receive accreditation from a distinguished panel of Michelin chefs in two categories: the Kitchen Category, featuring renowned chefs such as Emmanuel Stroobant of 2 Michelin Star Saint Pierre, Jeremy Gillon of 1 Michelin Star JAG, and more; and the Service Category, which includes awarded sommeliers and wine professionals on the judging board.

FHA-Food & Beverage: Ultimate One-Stop Platform

FHA-Food & Beverage 2024 will meet attendees with 12 core segments. From gastronomic innovations to sustainable practices, these segments provide a comprehensive and enriching experience that caters to the diverse needs and interests of culinary enthusiasts and experts alike.

“We are thrilled to host FHA-Food & Beverage 2024 again in Singapore, Asia’s most international F&B event. Over the years, we’ve witnessed its growth into the foremost international food trade fair, showcasing Singapore’s culinary diversity at the heart of the global food expert community. With a 46-year strong track record, FHA remains the key business event for international suppliers to connect with buyers in Asia and beyond, adapting to evolving trends,” states Ms. Janice Lee, Event Director – Food, Hong Kong & Singapore, Informa Markets.

For press kit, kindly refer here: https://bit.ly/FhaFB2024


[1] Singapore Food Statistics 2022, Link

Hashtag: #FHA

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

About FHA-Food & Beverage

The platform of choice for industry professionals, including distributors, importers, manufacturers, and retailers from Asia to see and source for high quality, new-to-market drinks, fresh produce, services across these key profiles – Food & Beverage and Food Technology. Majority of exhibitors participating in FHA-Food & Beverage are renowned manufacturers and brands hailing from 70 countries and regions.

For more information, please visit

Socials: | | | |

About ProWine Singapore

The largest of its kind in Southeast Asia, ProWine Singapore, jointly organised by Informa Markets and Messe Düsseldorf Asia, will feature a wide representation of international wine and spirit labels, an extensive scope of solutions and concepts for the region’s diverse consumer markets, as well as specialised masterclasses and seminars by industry speakers.

For more information, please visit

About Informa Markets

FHA-Food & Beverage is organised by Informa Markets, a division of Informa plc. Informa Markets creates platforms for industries and specialist markets to trade, innovate and grow. We provide marketplace participants around the globe with opportunities to engage, experience and do business through face-to- face exhibitions, targeted digital services and actionable data solutions.

We connect buyers and sellers across more than a dozen global verticals, including Pharmaceuticals, Food, Medical Technology, and Infrastructure. As the world’s leading market-making company, we bring a diverse range of specialist markets to life, unlocking opportunities and helping them to thrive 365 days of the year.

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Kerry Logistics Network Acquires French Air Freight Specialist BBA

To Strengthen Its Position in EMEA and Global IFF Capabilities


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 March 2024 – Kerry Logistics Network Limited (‘Kerry Logistics Network’, ‘KLN’; Stock Code 0636.HK) announced the acquisition of a majority stake in Business By Air SAS (‘BBA’), a leading French international freight forwarding company, to strengthen KLN’s position in the EMEA region and international freight forwarding (‘IFF’) capabilities across the globe.

An upstream supply chain specialist in air freight services for diverse industrial clients in verticals including automotive, aerospace and pharmaceutical, as well as an established player in the African market, BBA has been acting as KLN’s agent in France since 2016. In addition to multimodal freight forwarding, customs clearance and nationwide trucking, BBA also offers a complete suite of supply chain solutions covering express, on board couriers, project cargo, as well as logistics for fine arts, perishables and personal effects.

Vic Cheung, Group Managing Director of Kerry Logistics Network, said, “We are pleased to welcome BBA to KLN’s global network. The acquisition is a natural progression in our strategic pursuit of enhancing our IFF service offerings in the EMEA region. With France’s position as one of the world’s top exporting countries, the addition of BBA will significantly strengthen our foothold in the country. We are looking forward to the synergies created between KLN’s ocean freight capabilities and BBA’s air freight expertise, and the extension of our service into the niche verticals of fine arts and perishables, which will further boost our global coverage and competency to offer comprehensive and flexible solutions to customers.”

BBA was founded in 1978 and headquartered in Roissy-en-France, with four other offices in Orly, Nice & Le Havre, as well as an office in Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe.Hashtag: #KerryLogisticsNetwork

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

About Kerry Logistics Network Limited (Stock Code 0636.HK)

Kerry Logistics Network is an Asia-based, global 3PL with a highly diversified business portfolio and extensive coverage in Asia. It offers a broad range of supply chain solutions from integrated logistics, international freight forwarding (air, ocean, road, rail and multimodal) and e-commerce to industrial project logistics and infrastructure investment.

With a global presence across 60 countries and territories, Kerry Logistics Network has established a solid foothold in half of the world’s emerging markets. Its diverse infrastructure, extensive coverage in international gateways and local expertise span across the Mainland of China, India, Southeast Asia, the CIS, Middle East, LATAM and other locations.

Kerry Logistics Network generated a revenue of over HK$86.6 billion in 2022. It is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange and is a constituent of the Hang Seng Corporate Sustainability Benchmark Index.

About Business By Air SAS

BBA was founded in 1978 as a French-based air freight company, which has grown into providing air, sea, road and multimodal freight forwarding services to and from more than 100 countries. BBA has five branches, namely, the Paris CDG Airport, Paris Orly Airport, Port of Le Havre, Nice and Pointe à Pitre and designs dedicated door to door transportation plans. The company is AEO, ISO 9000 and ISO 14000 certified and possesses customs brokerage licences from e-commerce, perishables, general cargo to fine arts. BBA provides agility and flexibility to add competitive advantages to their clients’ supply chain thanks to a solid client facing sales team.

ISCA Signs MOU with PICPA to Train Chartered Accountants in the Philippines

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 March 2024 – The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA), to foster international collaboration and support the accountancy profession and businesses in Singapore and the Philippines.

Singapore is one of the Philippines’ top sources of foreign direct investment inflows and a major trading partner. With more than 1 million business enterprises and 1,430 accounting firms in the Philippines, ISCA and PICPA will work together to train and strengthen the professional development of accountants to support businesses.

PICPA will partner ISCA in developing accountancy talents and providing upskilling opportunities for accountancy professionals in the Philippines. Aspiring Chartered Accountants who would like to know more about the internationally recognised Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification and other ISCA programmes such as the ISCA Professional Business Accountant Programme, the ISCA Financial Forensic Accounting Qualification, the ISCA Sustainability Professional Certifications and the recently launched Board of Directors Masterclass Programme can reach out to PICPA to find out more.

Through these programmes which are developed in Singapore and aligned with international standards, accountancy professionals will be equipped with relevant skills and competencies to meet business demands. This professional development collaboration between PICPA and ISCA will strengthen the capabilities of accountancy professionals, reinforce and support the capacities of businesses and the expansion plans of professional services firms.

ISCA and PICPA will also be exploring collaboration through joint-membership pathways, joint events, and conferences, aimed at promoting the attractiveness of the accountancy profession.

Atty. Randy Blanza, CPA, National President of PICPA, said, “It’s an exciting time for the practice of accountancy in the Philippines. This agreement will open more opportunities to Filipino CPAs to practice their profession in international markets, including Singapore and other international territories.”

Ms Gladeys Jill A. Santos, ISCA Philippines Chapter Chairperson, said, “We are very pleased to be able to mark another milestone in ISCA’s efforts to develop the accountancy profession across the region. This agreement will bring the SCAQ and other ISCA programmes further, not only opening doors for accountants in the Philippines to gain internationally recognised credentials, but also growing and strengthening the accounting profession and businesses in both countries.”

Hashtag: #ISCA #PICPA #Accountancy #SCAQ

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

About the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA)

The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) is the national accountancy body of Singapore with over 35,000 ISCA members making their stride in businesses across industries in Singapore and around the world. ISCA members can be found in over 40 countries and members based out of Singapore are supported through 12 overseas chapters in 10 countries.

Established in 1963, ISCA is an advocate of the interests of the profession. Complementing its global mindset with Asian insights, ISCA leverages its regional expertise, knowledge, and networks with diverse stakeholders to contribute towards the advancement of the accountancy profession.
ISCA administers the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification programme and is the Designated Entity to confer the Chartered Accountant of Singapore – CA (Singapore) – designation.
ISCA is a member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide, a global family that brings together the members of leading institutes to create a community of over 1.8 million Chartered Accountants and students in more than 190 countries.
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About Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA)

The Philippine Institute of Certified Accountants or PICPA is the accredited integrated professional organization (AIPO) of CPAs by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) and has been awarded five times as PRC most outstanding APO from among other professional organizations. PICPA was founded in November 1929 by a group of illustrious pioneers in the accounting profession: Enrique Caguiat, Santiago de la Cruz, Francisco Dalupan, Jaime Hernandez, Felipe Ollada, Ramon del Rosario, Antonio Sanchez, Jose Torres, Artemio Tulio, Clemente Uson and Jesus Zulueta. W. W. Larkin, holder of CPA Certificate No. 1, was its first president.