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Over 70 Hopeful Startups Primed for Hong Kong Mega Event of EPiC 2024 Grand Finale

  • With the final stop of semi-final contest at Stuttgart, four-city world semi-final series for EPiC 2024 global pitching contest completed and over 70 semi-finalists were selected
  • “Best-of-the-best” semi-finalists to gather in Hong Kong on 26 April 2024 and all applicants target US$45 million investment to be arranged, up to US$5 million in HKSTP venture funding, US$240,000 in cash prizes, plus partnership opportunities
  • Grand Finale set to feature stellar cast of judges with innovation gurus and leaders from Cathay, HSBC, MTR Lab and more to added in Grand Finale

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2024 – With the completion of the last two EPiC 2024 semi-finals in Hong Kong (29 February 2024) and Stuttgart (4-5 March 2024), Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) has successfully wrapped up its first-ever world series of four regional semi-finals for the HKSTP global Elevator Pitch Competition 2024 (EPiC).

Over the course of seven weeks from January to March, the brightest and best startups from Silicon Valley, Singapore, Hong Kong and Stuttgart (Germany) have battled in ferocious pitching contests to leave over 70 semi-finalists still standing and set for the EPiC Grand Finale in Hong Kong on 26 April 2024. All applicants have set their sights on the US$45 million investment to be arranged[1], plus up to US$5 million in HKSTP Corporate Venture Fund (CVF), as well as US$240,000 in cash prizes, plus partnership opportunities. The EPiC 2024 Grand Finale on 26 April 2024 will take place at the iconic Sky100 venue atop Hong Kong’s tallest building, International Commerce Centre (ICC), with aspiring startups literally making 60-second elevator pitches while hurtling up the ICC tower.

Eric Or, Head of Partnerships, HKSTP, said, “EPiC 2024 has surpassed all expectations with over 70 startups of the highest quality and with the most impressive levels of talent, innovation and judging excellence that we have witnessed since this global contest began. With EPiC 2024, HKSTP has now forged a new global innovation footprint across the US, Europe, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, and Mainland China, providing unmatched growth opportunities for startups plugging directly into the city’s biggest innovation ecosystem and also integrating for seamless expansion from Hong Kong to the China GBA and beyond.”

This year, HKSTP has handpicked a star judging panel of leading figures from the Hong Kong innovation scene to determine the winners at EPiC 2024. Over 70 semi-finalists will be categorised by the three innovation tracks of PropTech, FinTech and MobilityTech. They will be assessed by the specific track judging teams, who will select four finalists from each track to join a final group for 12 startups for a final on-stage presentation to the final judging panel. From the coming Grand Finale to the series of global semi-finals, HKSTP has assembled over 100 world-class innovation leaders to steer the judging contests and more judges are being confirmed. The current Grand Finale final judges include:

PropTech Final Judges:

  • Dr Andy Lee, Chairman, East Asia Region, ARUP;
  • Ar Donald Choi, JP, Executive Director & Chief Executive Officer, Chinachem Group;
  • Michael Chan, Managing Director, MTR Lab;
  • Jonathan Chiu, Hong Kong President, Schneider Electric (Hong Kong) Limited.

FinTech Final Judges:

  • Sachin Goel, Chief Technology Officer, AIA International Limited;
  • Sebastian Paredes, Head of North Asia & CEO of DBS Bank (Hong Kong);
  • Bojan Obradović, Chief Digital Officer, HSBC Hong Kong;
  • Eric Hui, CEO Zurich (Hong Kong), Chairman Zurich (China) and Chairman of HKFI InsurTech (GI) Task Force.


MobilityTech Final Judges:

  • Lawrence Fong, Director Digital and IT, Cathay;
  • Ed Lam, CEO, LFX;
  • Andrew Ma, Chief Technology Officer, eLab Asia, AS Watson Group.

Before coming on the stage, the selected over 70 semi-finalists will make their live 60-second pitch in front of judges while riding up the elevator at the iconic Sky100 venue atop Hong Kong’s tallest building, International Commerce Centre. The current Grand Finale elevator judges include:

PropTech Elevator Judges:

  • Ir Yan Zhou, Assistant Director, Industry Development, Construction Industry Council;
  • Ir Dr Stewart Wan, Head of Innovation, Gammon Construction;
  • Johnny Yu, Advisor to Chairman, Henderson Land Development;
  • Wilson Cheung, Executive Director and Chief Projects Officer, HKR International;
  • Julie Wong, General Manager, Sustainability, Hysan Development;
  • Biga Luk, Managing Director – Hong Kong and Macau, Ingram Micro (China);
  • Kevin Chu, Deputy Managing Director, Kai Shing Management Services Limited;
  • Kiki Wang, General Manager, MTR Lab;
  • Kain Chow, Head of Group Technology Strategy, New World Development;
  • Kevin Lee, Head of Smart Facilities Management, SOCAM Development.

FinTech Elevator Judges:

  • Edison Sam, Director of Technology, Digital and Analytics Transformation, AIA International Limited;
  • Timothy Lee, Managing Director, Head of Transaction Banking Group Greater China, BNP Paribas;
  • Derek Ip, Chief Digital and Technology Officer, FT Life;
  • Charles Chang, VP, Head of Digital Platforms, FWD Life Insurance Company (Bermuda) Limited;
  • Dr Gabriel Leung, Executive Advisor – Hong Kong and Macau, Hewlett Packard Enterprise;
  • Mimi Poon, General Manager, IBM Hong Kong;
  • Selina Lau, Chief Executive, The Hong Kong Federation of Insurers;
  • Binnie Wong, Managing Director, Global Family and Institutional Wealth Management, UBS Wealth Management.


MobilityTech Elevator Judges:

  • Kammy Leung, Hong Kong General Manager, Global Import Supply Chain Division, Cainiao;
  • Aldric Chau, General Manager Digital, Cathay;
  • Steve Ng, Managing Director of Commercial Group, HKT;
  • Lily Lai, Chief Information Officer, Hong Kong International Airport;
  • Nixon Cheung, Head of Commercial and Brand, Hong Kong Tramways;
  • Lilliana Choi, Corporate Development & Affairs and Real Estate Investments Director, Jebsen Group;
  • Robert Ip, Managing Director, Konica Minolta Business Solutions (HK) Limited;
  • Keith Ip, Chief Technology Officer, Li & Fung;
  • Dennis Mak, Managing Director – Greater China, Rhenus Warehousing Solutions Hong Kong Limited;
  • Joseph Leung, Finance Director, The Kowloon Bus Motor Bus Co. (1933) Ltd.

EPiC 2024 Grand Finales also gives valuable chance to startups to get noticed from investors with their cutting-edge solutions and business plans. Investors judges will also select 12 finalists out of over 70 semi-finalists in the 60-second elevator pitches. Investor Final Judges and Investor Elevator Judges confirmed to attend Grand Finale including Lap Man, Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Beyond Ventures; Dr Alfred Shang, Managing Partner, Bitrock Capital; Kenneth Lee, Investment Director, Gaw Capital; Dr Jason Sun, Operation Director, Hong Kong X; Dr Samson Tam, JP, Partner, InnoAngel; Alex Zhou, Investment Manager, Jafco Asia; David Chang, Managing Partner, Mindworks Capital, and Michael Chow, Managing Director, Radiant Tech Ventures.

EPiC has a proven track record of propelling success for past finalists and winners. Two notable examples are Archifiction from EPiC 2023 and Papkot from 2021. Archifiction is a naked-eye 3D XR tech venture based in Silicon Valley and now also Hangzhou in China. Through EPiC, it successfully partnered with a leading Hong Kong property group, Henderson Land, to create a pioneering XR experience centre in Hong Kong and it will soon launch and power further growth in this region. Meanwhile, Papkot is a French greentech that set up in Hong Kong and through EPiC expanded with a lab at the HKSTP Shenzhen Branch. Today it is aggressively taking its ground-breaking plastic-free paper packaging to meet critical market needs and opportunities here in Hong Kong and the GBA.

All chosen semi-finalists for the Grand Finale will gain vital exposure to international investors as well as the cream of corporate innovators in the region. While the access to HKSTP’s Shenzhen Branch provides global ventures with scalable, efficient, and dedicated infrastructure and services support, in the expansion to Mainland China. More information can be found on: EPiC 2024 (https://epic.hkstp.org/) and HKSTP Shenzhen Branch (https://www.hkstp.org/hong-kong-and-beyond/greater-bay-area/hkstp-shenzhen/).

Photo 1: HKSTP successfully completed regional Elevator Pitch Competition 2024 (EPiC) Hong Kong Semi-final on 29 February 2024, with 12 of the Hong Kong’s brightest innovators selected to participate in EPiC 2024 Grand Finale on 26 April 2024.
Photo 1: HKSTP successfully completed regional Elevator Pitch Competition 2024 (EPiC) Hong Kong Semi-final on 29 February 2024, with 12 of the Hong Kong’s brightest innovators selected to participate in EPiC 2024 Grand Finale on 26 April 2024.

Photo 2: HKSTP successfully completed regional Elevator Pitch Competition 2024 (EPiC) Stuttgart Semi-final on 4-5 March 2024, with 20 of the European brightest innovators selected to participate in EPiC 2024 Grand Finale on 26 April 2024.
Photo 2: HKSTP successfully completed regional Elevator Pitch Competition 2024 (EPiC) Stuttgart Semi-final on 4-5 March 2024, with 20 of the European brightest innovators selected to participate in EPiC 2024 Grand Finale on 26 April 2024.

Photo 3: Eric Or, Head of Partnerships, HKSTP, said, “EPiC 2024 has surpassed all expectations with over 70 startups of the highest quality and with the most impressive levels of talent, innovation and judging excellence that we have witnessed since this global contest began. With EPiC 2024, HKSTP has now forged a new global innovation footprint across the US, Europe, SE Asia, Hong Kong, and Mainland China, providing unmatched growth opportunities for startups plugging directly into the city’s biggest innovation ecosystem and also integrating for seamless expansion from Hong Kong to the China GBA and beyond.”
Photo 3: Eric Or, Head of Partnerships, HKSTP, said, “EPiC 2024 has surpassed all expectations with over 70 startups of the highest quality and with the most impressive levels of talent, innovation and judging excellence that we have witnessed since this global contest began. With EPiC 2024, HKSTP has now forged a new global innovation footprint across the US, Europe, SE Asia, Hong Kong, and Mainland China, providing unmatched growth opportunities for startups plugging directly into the city’s biggest innovation ecosystem and also integrating for seamless expansion from Hong Kong to the China GBA and beyond.”

Photo 4: Featured startups showcased FinTech, PropTech and MobilityTech innovations in EPiC 2024 Hong Kong Semi-Final Contest
Photo 4: Featured startups showcased FinTech, PropTech and MobilityTech innovations in EPiC 2024 Hong Kong Semi-Final Contest

Photo 5: Featured startups showcased FinTech, PropTech and MobilityTech innovations in EPiC 2024 Stuttgart Semi-Final Contest.
Photo 5: Featured startups showcased FinTech, PropTech and MobilityTech innovations in EPiC 2024 Stuttgart Semi-Final Contest.


[1] Target to arrange USD45 Million investment: Investors (including funds managed by HKSTP CVF, Beyond Ventures, BitRock Capital, Gaw Capital, HKX, InnoAngel, Jafco Asia, Mindworks Capital and Radiant Tech Ventures) will consider investing in applicants (subject to terms and conditions to be agreed between the parties)

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

About Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation

Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) was established in 2001 with a mission to position Hong Kong as an international innovation and technology (I&T) hub. HKSTP has created a thriving I&T ecosystem supporting over 10 unicorns with more than 13,000 research professionals and around 1,700 technology companies from 26 countries and regions focused on healthtech, AI and robotics, fintech and smart city technologies.

We offer comprehensive support to attract and nurture talent, accelerate and commercialise innovation for technology ventures on their I&T journey. Our growing innovation ecosystem is built around our key locations of Hong Kong Science Park in Shatin, InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong and three modern InnoParks in Tai Po, Tseung Kwan O and Yuen Long. The three InnoParks are realising a vision of new industrialisation for Hong Kong, where sectors including advanced manufacturing, micro-electronics and biotechnology are being reimagined.

Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch in Futian, Shenzhen, opened in September 2023 to support Hong Kong’s future development and its growing demands of the I&T industry and to strengthen cross-border exchange, attract technology companies as well as talent from around the world, helping them go global. It has both dry and wet laboratories, co-working space, conference and exhibition spaces, and more. We will focus on attracting enterprises in seven key areas: Medtech, big data and AI, robotics, new materials, microelectronics, fintech and sustainability.

Through our infrastructure, services, expertise, and network of partnerships, HKSTP will help establish I&T as a pillar of growth for Hong Kong.

More information about HKSTP is available at .

NTT Launches Innovation Alliance Program to Establish a Collaborative Platform, Co-Creating Future-ready Innovations in Private 5G, AI, IoT and Edge within Hong Kong’s Tech Ecosystem

  • NTT Innovation Alliance Program creates a collaborative platform in Hong Kong, leveraging the company’s expertise and docomo business’ success in Hong Kong and Japan to co-create within a diverse tech ecosystem that encompasses enterprises, partners, universities and startups to commercialize future-ready solutions from Proof-of-Concept to the Go-to-Market stage.
  • Partners in the program thus far include leading innovation hubs Cyberport and HKSTP, research center LSCM, academic research partners like CityU, PolyU, HKUST and various pioneering startups, united to harness collaborative synergies and maximize the collective potential of this alliance.
  • NTT’s docomo 5G DX Square in Hong Kong offers a private 5G-ready environment outfitted with advanced equipment, as well as cutting-edge technologies such as AI, IoT and edge computing, enabling partners, enterprises and startups to conduct solution testing, development and demonstration.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2024 – As part of NTT Group, a world-leading telecommunications and ICT service provider, NTT Com Asia Limited (NTT) announced today the launch of “NTT Innovation Alliance Program” with two I&T flagships, Hong Kong Cyberport (Cyberport)[1] and Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), research centers like the Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre (LSCM), and academic partners including City University of Hong Kong, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. The program will empower the tech ecosystem with NTT’s mobile-first technology solutions, operational support and a shared vision for Hong Kong’s digital growth. Together, we will co-create and commercialize innovative solutions that ultimately generate unparalleled value for the community.

From the left:· Dr. Shin Cheul Kim, Associate Vice-President for Research and Development (Knowledge Transfer), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology· Mr Kelvin Wong, Director, Knowledge Transfer and Entrepreneurship Office, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University· Professor Ray Cheung Chak-chung, Associate Provost (Digital Learning), City University of Hong Kong and Chairman, IEEE Hong Kong Section· Mr Taichi Hiramatsu, Chief Executive Officer, Hong Kong, NTT Com Asia Limited· Mr Henry Li, Head of Ecosystem Development of Cyberport· Mr Eric Tong, Assoicate Director, Partnerships, Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation· Ir Prof LAM Hiu Fung, Alan, JP, Chairman of LSCM R&D Centre

From the left:
· Dr. Shin Cheul Kim, Associate Vice-President for Research and Development (Knowledge Transfer), The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
· Mr Kelvin Wong, Director, Knowledge Transfer and Entrepreneurship Office, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
· Professor Ray Cheung Chak-chung, Associate Provost (Digital Learning), City University of Hong Kong and Chairman, IEEE Hong Kong Section
· Mr Taichi Hiramatsu, Chief Executive Officer, Hong Kong, NTT Com Asia Limited
· Mr Henry Li, Head of Ecosystem Development of Cyberport
· Mr Eric Tong, Assoicate Director, Partnerships, Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation
· Ir Prof LAM Hiu Fung, Alan, JP, Chairman of LSCM R&D Centre

“We are witnessing a surge of businesses stepping up to innovate sustainably in the AI era, as we collectively recognize the untapped potential of this space within the tech ecosystem. NTT is taking the pioneering initiative to forge an alliance, harnessing capabilities and amplifying synergies across sectors through sustainable innovations. We are committed to co-creating ready-to-market solutions with the enterprises, partners, universities and startups, positively impacting both Hong Kong society and other markets,” said Taichi Hiramatsu, Chief Executive Officer, Hong Kong, NTT Com Asia Limited.

NTT, as one of the pioneers in data centers and technological innovation, remains steadfast in further enhancing its digital infrastructure capabilities in Hong Kong. With continuous investment in data centers and advanced technologies such as private 5G, AI, IoT and edge, NTT will explore limitless invaluable possibilities and unlock the full potential of a futuristic digital society.

Participants will unleash the full potential of NTT’s commercially-proven digital capabilities and obtain exclusive access to technical breakthrough knowledge aggregated in Hong Kong and Japan. In addition, they will benefit from a wealth of expertise and insights shared by participating partners and universities. This collaborative environment will accelerate the development of enterprises and startups, enabling them to collaboratively create future-proof business models and technologies that will propel them towards long-term success.

  • Next-generation Technology: NTT’s docomo 5G DX Square in Hong Kong is designed with a standalone private 5G-ready environment with supporting equipment, combined with the latest technologies in Artificial Intelligence (AI), Internet of Thing (IoT) and edge computing. This innovative space enables flexible and onsite Proof-of-Concept testing, development and showcases, offering firsthand experiences based on the expertise and market insights in Hong Kong, as well as knowledge, technical breakthroughs and achievements from docomo business in Hong Kong and Japan;
  • Co-Create Value: The program fully actualizes potential ideas, transforming them from starting-from-scratch concepts into fully-fleshed practical solutions with professional resources and experienced go-to-market support;
  • Co-Market to Local & Overseas: Co-created solutions can be commercialized in Hong Kong and potentially featured at flagship events in Japan or introduced in other markets.

Looking ahead, a series of events will proceed throughout the year, including exploration workshops, training sessions and community programs. Participants will actively engage in collaborative initiatives to explore mutual advantages and co-development areas. Together, they will identify and co-create value-driven solutions that align best with market needs. The most innovative ideas and ready-to-market solutions are expected to be showcased by the end of this year.

An Inaugural Ceremony took place during the “CO-CREATE InnoFuture” Afternoon Tech Mixer today, officially launching the program. Over 100 representatives of enterprises, partners, industry leaders, startups and stakeholders came together to witness this significant milestone.

Details and schedule of the upcoming activities under the NTT Innovation Alliance Program will be announced in April. Interested parties can find out more information and register their interest at: www.ntt.com.hk/innovation-alliance-program.


[1] NTT Com Asia is one of the members of the Cyberport Technology Network (CTN).

Hashtag: #NTT

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

About NTT Com Asia Limited

As part of NTT Group, a world-class leader in telecommunications and ICT services, NTT Com Asia Limited (“NTT”) is dedicated to delivering the best ICT infrastructure and disruptive technologies with the vision to enable a smarter world.

Riding on the leading enterprise mobile technology from docomo business in Japan, we are bringing cutting-edge and ready-to-market IoT, AI and other digital solutions to support enterprises to develop a mobile-first strategy in their digitalization journey. For more information, please visit:

INNIVATE Celebrates Successful Installation at the Hilton Singapore Orchard and Sets Sights on Global Expansion


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2024 – INNIVATE, a leader in the design and manufacture of innovative rain-defense louvre systems, is delighted to announce the successful installation of their state-of-the-art performance louvres at the Hilton Singapore Orchard. In the wake of an extensive $150 million renovation, the hotel, previously the Mandarin Orchard, welcomed guests into a new era on February 24, with the distinction of being the largest Hilton in Asia, featuring 1080 rooms equipped with INNIVATE’s advanced louvre solutions.

Mr

Director of INNIVATE, Mr. Paul Paffett, reflected on the significance of the project, stating, “The Hilton Singapore Orchard project represents a key achievement in our longstanding pursuit of excellence. Our ten-year track record of producing high-performance, quality-engineered products has won us international acclaim and a diverse portfolio that spans significant projects, both regionally and globally.”

INNIVATE’s louvres are recognized for their exceptional design, which seamlessly blends aesthetics with functionality, facilitating efficient building ventilation and machinery cooling while ensuring optimal indoor air quality. Their robust construction offers reliable protection against rainwater intrusion, a feature especially beneficial in areas susceptible to heavy rainfall.

“We are committed to advancing the interplay between performance and design in architecture,” Mr. Paffett noted. “Our louvres, crafted from premium recyclable aluminum, are tailored to meet the progressive requirements of contemporary construction.”

Global Aspirations and Strategic Developments

With a solid foundation in Singapore and Thailand, INNIVATE has earned the confidence of a broad clientele, including property developers and government entities. The company’s global presence extends to China, Hong Kong SAR, Vietnam, Myanmar, the Philippines, Malaysia, the United Kingdom, Australia, Indonesia, India, and the United States. INNIVATE louvres, tested to the stringent European standard BS EN 13030:2001, are gaining traction for their distinctive features and quality.

Further bolstering its capabilities, INNIVATE has integrated its production processes with its sister company, INNIbuild, ensuring superior control over production timelines and product quality.

Aiming to extend its market reach, INNIVATE is actively exploring opportunities for expansion into Europe and the United States. The company is in pursuit of strategic trading partners to facilitate this venture and to solidify its status as a global frontrunner in the performance louvre industry.

Hashtag: #INNIVATE

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

About INNIVATE

Specializing in the development and distribution of superior architectural rain-defense performance louvres, INNIVATE is at the forefront of research and development within the industry. The company prides itself on delivering architecturally impressive and practical louvre systems that resolve a wide range of engineering and architectural challenges. Their louvre systems serve a vital role in ensuring building and machinery ventilation and protection against the elements, enhancing the resilience and aesthetic value of modern structures.

Hin Nam No National Park Moves Closer to World Heritage Status

Hin Nam No National Park Moves Closer to World Heritage Status
Hin Nam No National Park (photo: Vientiane Times)

Hin Nam No National Park is on the path to achieving World Heritage Status, with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) accepting its complete application document. However, additional reviews are necessary before the park can receive this prestigious status.

Cyber Threat Surge: Trend Micro Blocks 160 billion Incidents in 2023

Ransomware detections fall 14% as alternative attack strategies evolve


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2024 – Trend Micro Incorporated (TYO: 4704; TSE: 4704) a global cybersecurity leader, today revealed a 10% annual increase in total threats blocked in 2023 and warned that attackers are using more advanced methods to target fewer victims with the potential for higher financial gains.

To read a copy of the report, Calibrating Expansion: Annual Cybersecurity Threat Report, please visit: https://www.trendmicro.com/vinfo/hk/security/research-and-analysis/threat-reports/roundup/calibrating-expansion-2023-annual-cybersecurity-threat-report

Jon Clay, VP of threat intelligence at Trend: “We’re blocking more threats than ever before for our customers. But understand that adversaries showed a variety and sophistication of TTPs in their attacks, especially in defense evasion. As our report demonstrates, network defenders must continue to proactively manage risk across the entire attack surface today. Understanding the strategies favored by our adversaries is the foundation of effective defense.”

Trend Micro blocked 161 billion threats overall in 2023, compared to 82 billion threats five years ago. In 2023, threats blocked by email and web reputation dropped annually by 47% and 2%, respectively. Threats blocked by Trend’s Mobile Application Reputation Service (-2%), Smart Home Network (-12%), and Internet of Things Reputation Service (-64%) also declined. However, there was a 35% annual increase in threats blocked under Trend’s File Reputation Service (FRS).

This could indicate that threat actors are choosing their targets more carefully. Instead of launching attacks on a wider range of users and relying on victims clicking on malicious links in websites and emails, they’re targeting a smaller number of higher-profile victims with more sophisticated attacks. This might enable them to bypass early detection layers like network and email filters—which could explain the surge in malicious file detections at endpoints.

Some other trends observed in the report include:

  • APT actors showed a variety and sophistication of their attacks against victims, especially around defense evasion tactics.
  • Email malware detection surged by 349% year-on-year (YoY), while malicious and phishing URL detections declined by 27% YoY – again highlighting the trend for more using malicious attachments in their attacks.
  • Business email compromise (BEC) detections increased 16% YoY.
  • Ransomware detections dropped 14% YoY. However, once again, the increase in FRS detections may indicate that threat actors are getting better at evading primary detection via techniques such as Living-Off-The-Land Binaries and Scripts (LOLBINs/LOLBAs), Bring Your Own Vulnerable Driver (BYOVD), zero-day exploits, and AV termination.
  • Linux and MacOS ransomware attacks were 8% of the overall ransomware detections.
  • There was an increase in remote encryption, intermittent encryption, EDR bypass using unmonitored virtual machines (VMs), and multi-ransomware attacks where victims were hit more than once. Adversaries have recognized EDR as a formidable defense but are now utilizing bypass tactics to get around this technology.
  • Thailand and the US were the top two ransomware victim countries, with banking as the most affected sector.
  • The top MITRE ATT&CK detections were defense evasion, command & control, initial access, persistence, and impact
  • Risky cloud app access was the top risk event detected by Trend’s attack surface risk management (ASRM), recorded almost 83 billion times.
  • Trend’s Zero Day Initiative discovered and responsibly disclosed 1914 zero-days, up 12% YoY. These included 111 Adobe Acrobat and Reader bugs. Adobe was the number one vendor for vulnerability reporting, and PDFs were the number one spam attachment type.
  • Windows applications were the top 3 vulnerabilities exploited through detections from our virtual patches.
  • Mimikatz (used in data harvesting) and Cobalt Strike (used in Command & Control) continued to be the preferred legitimate tools to abuse to aid criminal activity.

In light of these findings, Trend advises network defenders to:

  • Work with trusted security vendors with a cybersecurity platform approach to ensure resources are not only secured but also continuously monitored for new vulnerabilities.
  • Prioritize SOC efficiency by monitoring cloud applications carefully as they become more closely integrated into day-to-day operations.
  • Ensure all the latest patches/upgrades are applied to operating systems and applications.
  • Utilize comprehensive security protocols to safeguard against vulnerabilities, tighten configuration settings, control application access, and enhance account and device security. Look to detect ransomware attacks earlier in the attack lifecycle by shifting left in defenses during initial access, lateral movement, or data exfiltration stages.

Hashtag: #trendmicro #cyberthreat #cybersecurity




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

Trend Micro

Trend Micro, a global cybersecurity leader, helps make the world safe for exchanging digital information. Fueled by decades of security expertise, global threat research, and continuous innovation, Trend Micro’s cybersecurity platform protects hundreds of thousands of organizations and millions of individuals across clouds, networks, devices, and endpoints. As a leader in cloud and enterprise cybersecurity, the platform delivers a powerful range of advanced threat defense techniques optimized for environments like AWS, Microsoft, and Google, and central visibility for better, faster detection and response. With 7,000 employees across 65 countries, Trend Micro enables organizations to simplify and secure their connected world.

Laos Grapples with Extreme Weather Events, Fires in 2023, Causing USD 53.5 Million Damage

House fires

Laos faced a tough year in 2023 as it battled through 76 extreme weather events and fires that caused severe damage across the country. In a recent meeting chaired by Lao Deputy Prime Minister General Chansamone Chanyalath, the extent of the havoc became clear.

Jollibee Ranks as Second Fastest-Growing Restaurant Brand in the World


MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2024 – Jollibee has been recognized as the second fastest-growing restaurant brand in the world, according to the latest annual brand ranking report by Brand Finance, the world’s leading independent brand valuation agency. Surging by an impressive 51% to USD 2.3 billion in brand value, Jollibee ascended from rank 20 to rank 17 in this year’s Global Restaurant Rankings.

Expertise in Building Brands. Jollibee’s 51% brand value growth is a testament to the Jollibee Group’s expertise in building brands that can be scaled across markets globally.
Expertise in Building Brands. Jollibee’s 51% brand value growth is a testament to the Jollibee Group’s expertise in building brands that can be scaled across markets globally.

The brand further solidified its position by achieving fifth place in the strongest restaurant brand category, elevating its rating from AA- to AAA. In addition, Jollibee is the only Philippine brand listed in the 2024 Top 25 Most Valuable Restaurant Brands and Top 10 Strongest Restaurant Brands.

“We thank our loyal customers for their love for Jollibee, allowing us to grow the brand further and reach more people in various parts of the world,” said Jollibee Group President and CEO Ernesto Tanmantiong. “Being ranked as the second fastest growing brand in the world validates the effective work of all the leaders and teams of Jollibee—past and present—whose commitment to the brand and its customers has helped drive the brand’s sustained growth over the years.”

Confidence in Jollibee’s Strategic Direction

Jollibee, the flagship global brand within the Jollibee Group’s extensive portfolio of 18 brands, originated in the Philippines in 1978. The brand has since grown to encompass 1,668 locations across 17 countries as of January 2024.

Richard Shin, Chief Financial Officer of Jollibee Group, expressed confidence in the brand’s strategic direction, stating, “This valuation from Brand Finance gives us confidence that we are on the right track in our strategic goals for the brand. Jollibee’s ability to resonate with consumers across diverse markets and cultures opens opportunities for further expansion and growth, enhancing the potential for better shareholder value to investors and franchisees.”

Global Appeal. Jollibee continues to captivate global audiences with its great-tasting products at affordable fare, supported by a cohesive restaurant system that positions the brand for success across markets.
Global Appeal. Jollibee continues to captivate global audiences with its great-tasting products at affordable fare, supported by a cohesive restaurant system that positions the brand for success across markets.

Jollibee’s Growth Momentum

Brand Finance’s latest report attributes Jollibee’s remarkable financial performance and sustained momentum to its robust expansion initiatives, particularly in international markets. Emphasizing a diverse menu of exceptionally tasty, high-quality, and affordable fare, the brand continues to captivate global audiences.

The Chief Marketing Officer of Jollibee Group, David Beal, emphasized, “Jollibee’s impressive brand value growth is a testament to the Jollibee Group’s expertise in building brands that are craved globally. Our growth is underpinned by delicious offerings, a compelling brand proposition, and a cohesive restaurant system that positions us for success across markets.”

To sustain its growth momentum, Jollibee remains steadfast in expanding its store network in key markets such as the United States and the Europe, Middle East, Asia, and Australia (EMEAA) region, while sustaining market leadership in the Philippines.

Sustained Growth. Jollibee is now present in 17 countries with 1,668 store locations – and counting. The recent milestone opening in Canada is the brand’s 100th store in North America and is part of the Jollibee Group’s aggressive growth plans for 2024.
Sustained Growth. Jollibee is now present in 17 countries with 1,668 store locations – and counting. The recent milestone opening in Canada is the brand’s 100th store in North America and is part of the Jollibee Group’s aggressive growth plans for 2024.

Strong Brand Love for Jollibee

The brand has recently marked a significant milestone by inaugurating its 100th store in North America, with the first customer lining up for 20 hours before the store opening.

The same passionate demonstration of brand love has been consistent across store openings in new markets, with massive crowds queuing for long hours—some camping out the night before or braving freezing temperatures—to be the first to taste Jollibee’s signature crispy and juicy fried chicken called Jolly Crispy Chicken in North America and Chickenjoy in the Philippines and other markets. This bestselling product has been voted a fan favorite across markets in Asia, Europe, and North America.

Other bestsellers that turn customers into loyal fans of Jollibee include the Chicken Sandwich, a crispy, juicy chicken breast fillet with umami mayo in a toasted brioche bun; and the Peach Mango Pie, made with peaches and Philippine mangoes tucked in a warm, light, and crispy crust.

Brand Love Across Geographies and Generations. The support of loyal customers across generations and locations has solidified Jollibee’s position as a well-loved global restaurant brand.
Brand Love Across Geographies and Generations. The support of loyal customers across generations and locations has solidified Jollibee’s position as a well-loved global restaurant brand.

Hashtag: #Jollibee

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

About Jollibee Group

Jollibee Foods Corporation (JFC, also known as Jollibee Group) is one of the fastest-growing restaurant companies in the world. Its mission is to serve great-tasting food and bring the joy of eating to everyone through its 18 brands with over 6,800 stores across 33 countries including the Philippines, United States, Canada, the People’s Republic of China, United Kingdom, Vietnam, United Arab Emirates, and Australia.

The Jollibee Group has eight wholly owned brands (Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, Red Ribbon, Mang Inasal, Yonghe King, Hong Zhuang Yuan, Smashburger); four franchised brands (Burger King, Panda Express, and Yoshinoya in the Philippines, and Tim Ho Wan in certain territories in China); 80% ownership of The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf; 60% ownership in the SuperFoods Group that owns Highlands Coffee; and 51% ownership of Milksha, a popular Taiwanese bubble tea brand. JFC also has a business venture with award-winning Chef Rick Bayless for Tortazo, a Mexican fast-casual restaurant business in the United States.

The Jollibee Group, through its subsidiary Jollibee Worldwide Pte. Ltd. (JWPL) owns 92% participating interest in Titan Dining LP, a private equity fund that owns the Tim Ho Wan brand. The Jollibee Group has a joint venture with the THW Group to open and operate THW restaurants in Mainland China. Recently, the Jollibee Group has signed an agreement to establish a joint venture company that will own and operate Tiong Bahru Bakery and Common Man Coffee Roasters in the Philippines.

The Jollibee Group has launched its global sustainability agenda dubbed Joy for Tomorrow, which aims to strengthen the company’s commitment to sustainable business practices. The agenda centers on the key pillars of Food, People, and Planet, and consists of 10 focus areas namely: food safety, food quality, nutrition & transparency, employee welfare, farmers livelihood, community support, good governance, packaging & recycling, waste reduction, and energy & water efficiency. Each focus area sets goals and initiatives that contribute and align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals)).

The Jollibee Group was named the Philippines’ most admired company by the Asian Wall Street Journal for ten years. It was also honored as one of Asia’s Fab 50 Companies and among the World’s Best Employers and World’s Top Female-Friendly Companies by Forbes. The company is also a two-time recipient of Gallup’s Exceptional Workplace Award, making it the only Philippine-based company to receive the distinction.

To learn more about Jollibee Group, visit

Central Singapore CDC Runs Inaugural Hackathon in ‘My Digital Bootcamp’ Series, Opportunity for Disadvantaged Kids to Be Future-ready


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 March 2024 – Some 200 primary school students from lower-income families in Singapore’s Central District have just completed their first hackathon, which took place in the third ‘My Digital Bootcamp’ series.

Mayor Denise Phua (extreme Right) and UOB’s Mr Leonard Tan (centre, in jacket) interact with kids at “My Digital Bootcamp”
Mayor Denise Phua (extreme Right) and UOB’s Mr Leonard Tan (centre, in jacket) interact with kids at “My Digital Bootcamp”

Under the guidance of sustainability experts, primary school kids between the ages of 9 and 12 identified relevant climate-related issues and designed solutions using IT skills and upcycled materials.

They were part of the more than 1,000 primary school students from lower-income backgrounds who participated in transformative two-day camps aimed at nurturing digital and soft skills.

Ms Denise Phua, Mayor of Central Singapore District, said Central Singapore has invested efforts in carefully curating high-quality programmes like these to bridge the digital gap that allow kids from lower income groups to be future-ready.

“In the spirit of lifelong learning, there is the pleasure and the pressure to continue to update skillsets. Given the importance of climate change, this is not a nice-to-do programme but a must-do programme,” she said.

This is one of the initiatives under Central Singapore CDC’s SkillsFuture Junior movement. Children from disadvantaged backgrounds are equipped with relevant 21st century skills. This movement complements the long-term national SkillsFuture efforts: To give Singaporeans from all walks of life the opportunity to develop skills relevant for the future.

UOB has donated $1.5 million across three seasons of ‘My Digital Bootcamp’, with $500,000 attributed to Season 3. In Season 3, over 30 employee volunteers from UOB also befriended the students, distributed participation kits and meals, and helped guide the students through their learning.

Mr Leonard Tan, Head of Group CSR, Group Strategic Communications and Brand, UOB said: “UOB is committed to supporting the social development of the communities that we operate in. We are proud to be a longstanding supporter of ‘My Digital Bootcamp’, a programme that helps to develop young minds and build their confidence to thrive in an increasingly digital world. It is a testament to UOB’s promise to do right by our community by equipping children with digital tools and skills and developing them to their full potential.”

This Hackathon event is a culmination of a year-long effort and students competed to develop solutions in four categories:

* Create a linguistic device
* Design smart homes for people with disabilities
* Create an AI device that helps in garbage disposal
* Design fun games to help those like refugees cope with difficult times

One of the trainer-mentors in the programme was Mohd Faisal bin Ali, who had been helping kids for nearly a decade. He has mentored primary and secondary school kids in similar programmes, especially in coaching students to understand climate change and get students to “think” about such solutions.

Commenting on the latest hackathon, he said: “The goal is to help these students incorporate AI to think and address practical challenges.

“I feel blessed to be able to mentor these students because most of them are fast learners. They can quickly understand issues and know how to execute what they have learned from the programme. They are definitely above-average students because they are inquisitive,” he said.

Hashtag: #CentralSingaporeCDC

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