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New Building at Mahosot Hospital Opens, Marks Laos-China Cooperation Milestone

Mahosot construction (Photo credit: Media MBT)

A ceremony to inaugurate the new building at Mahosot Hospital took place on 12 October, attended by Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone of Laos and Prime Minister Li Qiang of China, along with high-level delegations from both nations. This project was launched in November 2017 and represents a significant milestone in Laos-China cooperation as a part of the “One Belt, One Road” initiative. 

Chevron Singapore gives customers a smarter, more rewarding way to refuel with the launch of the refreshed CaltexGO mobile app

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2024 – Chevron Singapore, which operates the retail brand Caltex, has announced the launch of the refreshed CaltexGO mobile app, designed to enhance customer convenience and engagement across all Caltex stations nationwide. This latest iteration of Singapore’s first mobile fuel payment app underscores Caltex’s commitment to innovation and delivering exceptional customer experiences.

The refreshed CaltexGO mobile app (Credit - Chevron Singapore)
The refreshed CaltexGO mobile app (Credit – Chevron Singapore)

With the first iteration of the CaltexGO mobile app launched in September 2018, the refreshed app features a redesigned user interface focused on enhancing intuitive navigation and seamless user interaction. Customers will enjoy improved usability, making it easier to explore Caltex’s extensive range of services and enjoy exciting offers and vouchers located within the app as they continue their refueling journey with us. To fully experience these enhanced capabilities and maximise the benefits of the new features, customers will have to download and install the refreshed CaltexGO mobile app.

“We are excited to introduce the refreshed CaltexGO mobile app, which stands as a testament to our unwavering commitment to continually enhance customer experience,” said Dean Gilbert, General Manager of International Products, Southeast Asia, Singapore. “With new features, such as vouchers, birthday month bonus and other exciting offers, we hope to streamline and elevate the way customers engage with our services, offering greater control and convenience during their visits to Caltex service stations. We are eager for our customers to embrace the new platform and enjoy the many benefits it offers.”

To celebrate the launch of the refreshed CaltexGO mobile app, Caltex will offer a welcome incentive of up to $10 with a minimum spend of $20[1] for users who install the new app and make their first transaction with partner credit cards in the app from now to 31 December 2024.

Customers will also have the opportunity to catch Ayden Sng, the Caltex brand ambassador, featured in an engaging Korean drama-inspired TV commercial, showcasing the user-friendly features and numerous benefits of the refreshed CaltexGO mobile app on Caltex social media channels.

The refreshed CaltexGO mobile app is now available for download on both Android and iOS platforms. Customers can access online guides that outline the steps to install the new one, facilitating a smooth transition process. For customers who prefer in-person assistance, service station attendants at Caltex stations islandwide are available to answer questions and guide them through the app transition.

For more information and to experience the new and improved CaltexGO mobile app firsthand, please visit the Caltex website or visit any Caltex Service Station near you.


[1] Payment via OCBC / Trust / HSBC / SCB / Trust / Citibank / GrabPay in the CaltexGO app gets $10, payment via other Visa / Mastercard cards get $5.

Hashtag: #chevron

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

About Caltex Singapore

Chevron Singapore Pte. Ltd. markets the 88-year-young Caltex brand, which is Chevron’s customer-facing brand in Asia Pacific and parts of the Middle East and Africa. The Caltex retail network in Singapore consists of 26 Caltex service stations and Star Mart branded convenience stores.

All Caltex service stations accept the CaltexGO mobile payment for fuel purchases. Products such as the Caltex with Techron® with Clean & Glide Technology™ petrol, Caltex Diesel with Techron® D and Havoline® motor oil are also available at all Caltex service stations. In partnership with NTUC Link, the Link Rewards Programme also enables motorists to earn 2 Linkpoints for every litre of fuel purchased at Caltex.

About Chevron

Chevron is one of the world’s leading integrated energy companies. We believe affordable, reliable, and ever-cleaner energy is essential to enabling human progress. Chevron produces crude oil and natural gas; manufactures transportation fuels, lubricants, petrochemicals and additives; and develops technologies that enhance our business and the industry. We aim to grow our oil and gas business, lower the carbon intensity of our operations and grow lower carbon businesses in renewable fuels, carbon capture and offsets, hydrogen and other emerging technologies. More information about Chevron is available at .

CTF Life Celebrates 40th Anniversary with Launch of MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2

Introduces first-in-market “Wealth Booster Option” to Create Value Beyond Insurance

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2024 – Chow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited (“CTF Life”) recently celebrated its towards 40th anniversary with a celebration dinner themed “Value Beyond Insurance” at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. To further promote the value of CTF Life in providing customers with personalised planning solutions, lifelong protection and diverse lifestyle experiences over the years, CTF Life also announced the launch of its MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2, which empowers customers with faster and higher projected returns, greater autonomy and greater flexibility in inheritance planning, helping customers embrace a fulfilling life.

CTF Life’s celebration dinner to mark its towards 40th anniversary is inaugurated by Brian Cheng, Executive Director and Group Co-Chief Executive Officer of NWS Holdings and Non-executive Director of CTF Life (third from right); Gilbert Ho, Executive Director and Group Co-Chief Executive Officer of NWS Holdings and Non-executive Director of CTF Life (second from left); and Man Kit Ip, Chief Executive Officer of CTF Life (centre), along with the management team of CTF Life.
CTF Life’s celebration dinner to mark its towards 40th anniversary is inaugurated by Brian Cheng, Executive Director and Group Co-Chief Executive Officer of NWS Holdings and Non-executive Director of CTF Life (third from right); Gilbert Ho, Executive Director and Group Co-Chief Executive Officer of NWS Holdings and Non-executive Director of CTF Life (second from left); and Man Kit Ip, Chief Executive Officer of CTF Life (centre), along with the management team of CTF Life.

The celebration dinner was inaugurated by Brian Cheng, Executive Director and Group Co-Chief Executive Officer of NWS Holdings and Non-executive Director of CTF Life; Gilbert Ho, Executive Director and Group Co-Chief Executive Officer of NWS Holdings and Non-executive Director of CTF Life; and Man Kit Ip, Chief Executive Officer of CTF Life, along with the company’s management team. The highlight of the event was a performance by singer-songwriters Phil Lam and Cath Wong, while renowned artist Kelly Chen appeared as a guest performer.

To further promote its brand awareness, CTF Life displayed its new company name on the rooftop LED billboard of COFCO Tower on Hong Kong Island and the large outdoor advertisement at the Royal Hong Kong Yacht Club in Causeway Bay. To celebrate its 40th anniversary, the company also advertised on billboards on five major commercial buildings, including Far East Finance Centre, Harcourt House, Sing Ho Finance Building, Chinachem Century Tower and V Point.

Man Kit Ip, Chief Executive Officer of CTF Life, said: “CTF Life is embarking on a new journey in 2024, proudly stepping into its 40th year. Over the years, we have overcome challenges and seized opportunities together with Hong Kong, achieving remarkable growth. Looking ahead, we will further strengthen our collaboration with the diverse conglomerate of the Chow Tai Fook Group, leveraging its robust financial strength and strategic investments across the globe to continue to expand our service network and optimise our products and services. Drawing on our roots in Hong Kong, we will extend our reach across China and other Asian markets, continually creating value beyond insurance for our target customers.”

MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 for Flexible Wealth Management

To celebrate its 40th anniversary and meet the financial needs of customers at different stages of life, CTF Life has launched MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 (MyWealth 2), building on the success of its MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan (MyWealth 1). The new plan features the first-in-market1 “Wealth Booster Option” 2, which allows customers to change the amount components under the policy to help enhance the projected returns. The plan’s special-in-market1 “Wealth Accumulation Switching Options” 3 give customers greater autonomy to cater their investment preferences at different life stages. MyWealth 2 features “Dual Succession”, which allows unlimited changes of Insured4 and entitles the policy owner to assign up to two beneficiaries for legacy planning, ensuring the continuation of the policy and maximising the efficacy of wealth inheritance.

Jarita Kwan, Chief Product Officer of CTF Life, said, “Based on the thoughtful features of MyWealth 1, CTF Life has launched MyWealth 2 to meet the financial needs of customers at different stages of life. Taking USD policy as an example, MyWealth 2 offers a shorter breakeven period, higher projected returns, and greater flexibility. It enhances withdrawal advantages, allowing customers to seize market opportunities in a timely manner, helping wealth accumulation and inheritance.”

The three main advantages of MyWealth 2


1. Shorter breakeven periods, higher projected returns and more flexible withdrawal arrangements
  • With a five-year premium payment period5, customers can achieve total breakeven and guaranteed breakeven on the 7th and 13th policy anniversaries, respectively. Furthermore, the total policy value is projected to exceed 200% of the total premiums paid by the end of the 17th policy anniversary. Moreover, MyWealth 2 offers potentially higher projected returns than MyWealth 1.
  • Building on the strengths of MyWealth 1, MyWealth 2 offers more flexible withdrawal arrangements to meet the needs of customers at various stages of life.
2. Greater autonomy

  • First-in-market1 “Wealth Booster Option” 2: On the 10th policy anniversary or any policy anniversary thereafter, customers can apply once to exercise the first-in-market1 “Wealth Booster Option”2 . This allows customers to change the amount components# under the policy according to the long-term target asset allocation under this option in order to enhance the projected return of their policy.
  • Wealth Accumulation Switching Option 3: The 3 special-in-market1 Switching Options, including “Advance”, “Balanced” and “Conservative”, allow customers the flexibility to choose the value ratio of their “Stable Asset Account” 6 from three preset Switching Options, starting from the 10th policy anniversary, fulfilling their financial needs at different stages of life. MyWealth 2 allows customers to apply for this option five years earlier than with MyWealth 1.
  • Free conversion of the policy currency: On the 3rd policy anniversary and any policy anniversary thereafter, customers can apply to exercise the “Currency Switching Option”, changing the policy currency of the basic plan to a different currency (US dollar, Hong Kong dollar, Chinese yuan, British pound sterling, Euro, Singapore dollar, Australian dollar or Canadian dollar), accommodating their global wealth management goals.
  • Policy Split Option 7: After the end of the 5th policy year or the end of the premium payment period (whichever is later), customers can split the existing policy into two by allocating a portion of the Units of the basic plan under the existing policy to a sperate “Split Policy”. The process involves splitting a policy into two, then two becomes four, and so on, allowing customers to maximise the power of asset allocation.
  • Premium Holiday8 of up to four years: Customers can apply for a Premium Holiday of up to four years, on or after the 2nd policy anniversary. The premium payment of their next policy anniversary will be suspended, and customers do not need to worry about the immediate termination of their policy and the loss of protection.

3. Greater flexibility on inheritance
  • Dual Succession: After the 6th policy monthly anniversary, customers may change the Insured for unlimited times4. The coverage period will be adjusted to age 128 of the new Insured (“Changed New Insured”), allowing sufficient time for wealth accumulation of the policy. In addition, MyWealth 2 provides a “Policy Continuation Option9, enabling the Policy Owner to assign up to two beneficiaries and specify the proportion of the Death Proceeds to be paid for each beneficiary. Upon the death of the Insured, the designated beneficiaries will become the new Insured(s), offering flexibility on inheritance.
  • Customised Death Benefit Settlement Option: The Policy Owner can designate a specified year or a specified age of the beneficiary to start paying the death benefit. This flexible payment allows each beneficiary to have the most appropriate arrangement, leaving a lasting legacy of love.
  • Premium Waiver10: Accidents or diseases are unforeseeable. MyWealth 2 offers “Waiver of Premium Benefit” and “Payor Benefit” to ensure that the accumulated wealth remains unaffected and to safeguard the financial future of the customer’s children.

To help customers realise their financial plans more easily, they can enjoy a First-Year Premium Refund11 of up to 26% when they successfully apply for MyWealth 2. If all premiums payable are settled through a lump sum prepayment, the remaining balance from the prepayment will enjoy a guaranteed interest rate of up to 5% p.a. throughout the whole premium payment period12. This allows customers to start their financial plans at a lower cost.

#The amount components refer to Guaranteed Cash Value, face value and cash value of accumulated Reversionary Bonuses and Terminal Bonus (if any) and accumulated value of Stable Asset Account (if any) of the basic plan.

Remarks:

1. “Special-in-market” and “First-in-market” are the results of comparing similar major life insurance savings products of major life insurance companies in Hong Kong as of 26 September 2024.
2. Within 30 days before or after the 10th policy anniversary or every policy anniversary thereafter, customer may, subject to the prevailing rules of the Company, exercise the Wealth Booster Option to adjust the Guaranteed Cash Value, face value and cash value of accumulated Reversionary Bonuses (if any), face value and cash value of Terminal Bonus (if any), and the accumulated value of Stable Asset Account (if any) of the basic plan to other pre-set level(s) (to be determined by the Company and elaborated in an endorsement and new policy specifications) according to the new long-term target asset allocation, without providing any evidence of insurability while subject to the following conditions: (i) all premiums due and payable under the policy must be settled and any Indebtedness must be fully repaid; (ii) no Premium Holiday is in effect, no application for exercising Policy Split Option, Currency Switch Option, Wealth Accumulation Switching Option or Change of Insured Option is in progress, and no claim is in progress under the basic plan of the policy upon request exercising this Option; (iii) the request cannot be changed or withdrawn once it is submitted; and (iv) this Option can only be exercised once under the policy. After the Wealth Booster Option becomes effective, (i) the Guaranteed Cash Value, face value and cash value of Reversionary Bonus (if any), face value and cash value of Terminal Bonus (if any) and accumulated value of Stable Asset Account (if any) of the basic plan of the policy will be adjusted at the sole discretion of the Company while the Unit will remain unchanged. The future amounts of Guaranteed Cash Value, face value and cash value of Reversionary Bonus (if any), face value and cash value of Terminal Bonus (if any) will also be determined accordingly; (ii) the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option will be reset as “Advance” (i.e. the allocation and value in Stable Asset Account are both zero); (iii) all Complementary Policies (if any) and riders (if any) under the policy will remain in force after the change, subject to the then prevailing rules of the Company; (iv) the beneficiary(ies), policy owner, contingent policy owner (if designated), Initial Insured, Insured, policy currency, Policy Date, policy effective date and Policy Years of the basic plan of the policy will remain unchanged; and (v) previous instruction(s) made under the basic plan of the policy including but not limited to Death Benefit Settlement Option and Policy Continuation Option will remain unchanged unless otherwise specified. In the event that both Wealth Booster Option and Wealth Accumulation Switching Option are elected on the same policy anniversary, the Wealth Booster Option will be exercised while the elected Wealth Accumulation Switching Option will be automatically withdrawn immediately. Policy owner may elect the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option again in the next policy anniversary. As the equity-like assets in the new long-term target asset allocation are relatively higher, the Guaranteed Cash Value may be subject to reduction and the risk may increase accordingly after the Wealth Booster Option has been exercised. If customer has any questions, customer can contact financial consultant for more details or seek independent professional advice. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for more details of the Wealth Booster Option.
3. Wealth Accumulation Switching Options and its portfolio ratio
Switching option(s) “Stable Asset Account” allocation Allocation of the cash value of Reversionary Bonus (if any) and cash value of Terminal Bonus (if any)
Advance 0% 100%
Balanced 40% 60%
Conservative 80% 20%
“Stable Asset Account Allocation” = the value of “Stable Asset Account” ÷ (cash value of Reversionary Bonus (if any) + cash value of Terminal Bonus (if any) + value of Stable Asset Account) x 100%
Within 30 days before or after the 10th policy anniversary or every policy anniversary thereafter, customer may, subject to the prevailing rules of the Company, exercise the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option to adjust the Switching Option of the basic plan of the policy to achieve Stable Asset Account Allocation at desire of customer, subject to the following conditions: (i) the Switching Option applied for must be different from the default Switching Option of the Basic Plan of the policy (for the first exercise of this option) or the latest Switching Option as shown in our record (if customer has already exercised this option before); (ii) except the first time of exercise of this option, the switch date of each subsequent request must be separated by a period of not less than 1 year from the switch date of the preceding exercise of this option; and (iii) all indebtedness must be fully settled before exercising this option. Once the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option is exercised, we will correspondingly adjust the amount of any future cash values and face values of Reversionary Bonus and Terminal Bonus at a rate to be determined by us based on the change(s) of the cash values of Reversionary Bonus and Terminal Bonus. Once the Company approves the request of Wealth Accumulation Switching Option, we will determine the value of Stable Asset Account immediately following such exercise of Wealth Accumulation Switching Option (“Target Value”). The Target Value equals the product of Stable Asset Account Allocation of the elected Switching Option and the aggregate of (i) the accumulated value of Stable Asset Account (if any) immediately before such exercise (“Existing Value”); and (ii) the cash values of Reversionary Bonus and Terminal Bonus immediately before such exercise. We will then adjust the balance of Stable Asset Account from the Existing Value to the Target Value at the switch date, which in the case that the Existing Value is lower than the Target Value, the deficit will be resolved by transferring the latest cash value of Reversionary Bonus (if any) and cash value of Terminal Bonus (if any) to the Stable Asset Account; or in the case that the Existing Value is higher than the Target Value, the surplus from the Stable Asset Account will become the cash value of Reversionary Bonus and cash value of Terminal Bonus. In the event that both Wealth Booster Option and Wealth Accumulation Switching Option are elected on the same policy anniversary, the Wealth Booster Option will be exercised while the elected Wealth Accumulation Switching Option will be automatically withdrawn immediately. Policy Owner may elect the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option again in the next policy anniversary. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for more details of the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option.
4. Changing the Insured is subject to the prevailing administrative rules and designated requirements. The Unit, Guaranteed Cash Value, the face value of accumulated Reversionary Bonuses (if any) and the face value of Terminal Bonus (if any), any accumulated value of Stable Asset Account, Policy Date and Policy Years will remain the same on the Insured-Change Effective Date while the Plan End Date will be adjusted to the date of policy anniversary on the 128th birthday of the Changed New Insured or following the 128th birthday of the Changed New Insured (whichever is applicable). The Changed New Insured must be aged 64 (last birthday) or below. The change of Insured must be endorsed by the Policy Owner, proposed new Insured and Assignee (if any). Both the new Insured and the current Insured must be alive and the policy is in force at the time the Insured is changed and provided with satisfactory proof of evidence of insurability for the proposed new Insured. We shall cease to provide any coverage for the initial Insured or the prior Insured on our record (when applicable and as the case may be) as from the Insured-Change Effective Date. All riders (if any) will be terminated on the Insured-Change Effective Date. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of Changing of Insured Option.
5. This is an example of a policy denominated in USD with a 5-year premium payment period. The annual premium payment is US$100,000, resulting in a total premiums paid of US$500,000, without exercising any policy options.
6. Account determined in accordance with the Wealth Accumulation Switching Option provision in which its long-term target asset allocation is 100% in fixed income type securities. The value in the Stable Asset Account will be accumulated at such interest rate as may be declared by us from time to time. Interest rates on the Stable Asset Account are not guaranteed and may even be 0% in any year.
7. While the policy is in force and the Insured is still alive, after the end of the 5th Policy Year (Applicable to MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 (Premier))/while the policy is in force and the Insured is still alive, after the end of the 5th Policy Year or the end of the premium payment period (whichever is later) (Applicable to MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 (Prestige)), and subject to the prevailing rules of the Company, customer may exercise Policy Split Option to create a separate policy (the “Split Policy”), allocating a portion of Unit from the basic plan of the policy to the Split Policy but subject to the following conditions without providing any evidence of insurability: (i) after the policy Split Option has been exercised (the “Split”), the respective Unit of the basic plan of the policy and Split Policy must not be less than the minimum Unit amount we permit at the time of the request of customer; (ii) the insured of the Split Policy must be the same as the Insured of the basic plan of the policy; (iii) no claim is in progress under the basic plan of the policy upon request exercising this option; (iv) customer’s request for the policy Split Option cannot be changed or withdrawn once it is submitted; (v) any indebtedness under the basic plan of the policy must be fully repaid before we approve customer’s request ; and (vi) Policy Split Option can only be exercised once during a Policy Year. After the Split is approved, (i) the provisions of the Split Policy will be the same as the basic plan of the policy unless otherwise specified; (ii) the Unit, face value and cash value of Reversionary Bonus and Terminal Bonus (if any), accumulated value of Stable Asset Account (if any) will be reduced and transferred to the Split Policy according to the ratio of the Unit allocated to the basic plan of the policy and the Split Policy. We will determine the existing and future amounts of Guaranteed Cash Value, the face value and cash value of Reversionary Bonus and Terminal Bonus (if any); and future premium respectively for both the basic plan of the policy and the Split Policy according to customer’s allocation of the Units; (iii) the total premiums paid for both the basic plan of the policy and the Split Policy will be adjusted according to customer’s allocation of Units and will be used to calculate death benefit; (iv) subject to the rules of the Company, all riders (if any) under the policy will continue to be effective after the Split; (v) the beneficiary(ies), Policy Owner, Contingent Policy Owner (if designated), Initial Insured, Insured, Policy Currency, Policy Date, Policy Effective Date and Policy Years of the basic plan of this Policy will remain unchanged and the Split Policy will have the same beneficiary(ies), Policy Owner, Contingent Policy Owner (if designated), Initial Insured, Insured, Policy Currency, Policy Date, Policy Effective Date and Policy Years of the basic plan of this Policy; and (vi) previous instruction(s) made under the basic plan of the policy including but not limited to Wealth Accumulation Switching Option, Wealth Booster Option, Death Benefit Settlement Option and Policy Continuation Option will also apply to the Split Policy unless otherwise specified. The Split Policy will be effective only after its policy provisions and policy specifications are issued. Please refers to the Policy Provisions for more details of Policy Split Option.
8. Premium Holiday is not applicable to the policy with a 2-year premium payment period. The length of a Premium Holiday for each application should be a multiple of 1 year until it reaches the maximum limit. Premium Holiday is only applicable to the basic plan and will be effective on the next policy anniversary, but all riders attached to the policy will be terminated at the same time. We will defer the premium end date and premium due date according to the Premium Holiday Period approved. Riders attached to the policy can be re-attached after Premium Holiday, however, the premium and approval should be subject to rider application at that time. During the Premium Holiday, customer does not need to pay premiums for the basic plan, the Units, Guaranteed Cash Value, the face value of accumulated Reversionary Bonuses (if any), accumulated value of Stable Asset Account and protection under the basic plan will remain unchanged during the period, provided that customer has not partially surrendered during the Premium Holiday. The cash value of Reversionary Bonus and Terminal Bonus (if any) are non-guaranteed. During the Premium Holiday, we will not declare any face value of non-guaranteed Reversionary Bonus. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of Premium Holiday.
9. Prior to the death of the Insured, the Policy Owner can assign one or two beneficiary(ies) for the Policy Continuation Option and specify the proportion of the Death Proceeds to be paid to each beneficiary for the Policy Continuation Option. Upon the death of the Insured, if the Policy Owner (still alive) and the Insured are different persons, the beneficiary will become the Continued New Insured; if the Policy Owner died at the same time or the Policy Owner and the Insured is the same person, subject to the prevailing administrative rules of the Company, the beneficiary will become the new Policy Owner and Continued New Insured of the policy in order to keep the policy in force after the Insured dies. If Policy Continuation Option has been exercised, and (i) only one beneficiary is designated under the policy and such beneficiary has been elected for the Policy Continuation Option prior to the death of the Insured, after this option has been exercised, all Units, Total Premiums Paid, Guaranteed Cash Value, the face value of accumulated Reversionary Bonuses (if any), the face value of Terminal Bonus (if any) and any accumulated value of Stable Asset Account (if any), Policy Date and Policy Years will remain unchanged on the Policy Continuation Effective Date, while the respective plan end date of the basic plan of the policy will be adjusted to the date of policy anniversary on the 128th birthday of the Continued New Insured or the immediately following policy anniversary (whenever is applicable); (ii) if there is more than one beneficiary designated under the policy and one or two beneficiary(ies) has/have been elected for the Policy Continuation Option prior to the death of the Insured, one or two basic plan(s) of the policy will be created upon the death of the Insured, and regarding each newly created basic plan, the respective unit, Total Premiums Paid, Guaranteed Cash Value, the respective face value of accumulated Reversionary Bonuses (if any) and the respective face value of Terminal Bonus (if any) and any respective accumulated values of the Stable Asset Account will be adjusted according to the proportion of the Death Proceeds specified by the Policy Owner for each beneficiary selected for the Policy Continuation Option. The respective Policy Date and Policy Years will remain unchanged on the Policy Continuation Effective Date, while the respective plan end date of the basic plan of the policy will be adjusted to the date of policy anniversary on the 128th birthday of the Continued New Insured or the immediately following policy anniversary (whenever is applicable). The surrender payment may be equal to or lower than death benefit before this option has been exercised. If the Death Benefit Settlement Option has already been selected for the beneficiary who has also been elected for the Policy Continuation Option, customer shall cancel the Death Benefit Settlement Option arrangement for such beneficiary before submission of any written request for the Policy Continuation Option. All riders (if any) will be terminated on the Policy Continuation Effective Date. For the beneficiary(ies) who has/have not been elected for the Policy Continuation Option (if any), the Death Benefit will be paid to each of these beneficiary(ies) in a lump sum or the respective option under the Death Benefit Settlement Option provision elected by the Policy Owner. If the Policy Owner has selected both Policy Continuation Option and Death Benefit Settlement Option, Policy Continuation Option will automatically be exercised (regardless of the order of selection). After Policy Continuation Option has been exercised, the Policy Continuation Option and Death Benefit Settlement Option previously selected by the Policy Owner will automatically become invalid Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of Policy Continuation Option.
10. There are 2 types of premium waivers: (i) “Waiver of Premium Benefit” is applicable to the Insured whose age at policy issuance or the change of Insured is between 18 and 60 and is the Policy Owner at the same time, and is diagnosed with total permanent disability before the age of 75. (ii) “Payor Benefit” is applicable to the latest Insured whose age at policy issuance or the change of the Insured is at the age 17 or below; the latest Policy Owner (including contingent Policy Owner) whose age at policy issuance or the change of the Policy Owner (including Contingent Policy Owner) is at the age of 60 or below, and dies or is diagnosed with total permanent disability before the age of 75. After the waived premium of the basic plan reaches the maximum total amount of premium waived (per Insured) and/ or on the waiver of premium end date (until the premium end date that is set at the time of policy issuance), the Policy Owner should pay the remaining premium; otherwise, the automatic premium loan will be applied, or the policy will be terminated. In addition to the premiums stated above, if premiums falling due in the relevant Waiver of Premium Benefit Period are paid before we approve a claim of this benefit, such premiums will be fully refunded (with no interest). If the incident is resulted from accident, immediate protection will be given. If a person dies or is diagnosed with total permanent disability due to illness, a 2-year waiting period is required. Please refer to the Policy Provisions for details of “Waiver of Premium Benefit” and “Payor Benefit”.
11. Subject to terms and conditions, for details, please refer to
MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 (Prestige) First-Year Premium Refund:
MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 (Premier) First-Year Premium Refund:
12. Subject to terms and conditions, for details, please refer to

Important notice:

  • The information contained in this press release is intended as a general summary of information for reference only. MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 features Prestige Version and Premier Version. For more details, please refer to the product brochures, promotion leaflets, and policy documents. For details regarding the CTF Life MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2, the terms and conditions of the policy contract shall prevail.
  • This press release does not contain the full provisions of MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2, and the full terms can be found in the Policy documents. MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 may serve as standalone plan(s) without bundling with other type(s) of insurance product. Please refer to the main product brochure and policy terms and conditions, as well as the explanatory documents provided by your licensed insurance intermediary, to fully understand the details and complete terms and conditions regarding the mentioned definitions, fees, product features, exclusions, and compensation payment conditions related to the MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2.
  • Please refer to the product brochure for more information on MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 (Prestige): https://www.ctflife.com.hk/pdf/en/mywealth-savings-2-prestige-insurance-plan-brochure.pdf
  • Please refer to the product brochure for more information on MyWealth Savings Insurance Plan 2 (Premier): https://www.ctflife.com.hk/pdf/en/mywealth-savings-2-premier-insurance-plan-brochure.pdf
  • For further details, please contact CTF Life’s Customer Service Hotline on +852 2866 8898.
  • This press release is intended to be distributed in Hong Kong only and shall not be construed as an offer to sell or a solicitation to buy or provision of any of our products outside Hong Kong. Chow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited hereby declares that it has no intention to offer to sell, to solicit to buy or to provide any of its products in any jurisdiction other than Hong Kong in which such offer to sell or solicitation to buy or provision of any product of Chow Tai Fook Life Insurance Company Limited is illegal under the laws of that jurisdiction.

Hashtag: #CTLife

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

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 the Greater Bay Area while continuously creating value beyond insurance.

International Skin Health Foundation Hosts Annual Thematic Event 2024 “Caring for Skin, Health and Beauty”

International Conference on The Science behind skincare, Skin Analysis & Skincare Knowledge


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2024 – The International Skin Health Foundation successfully held its Opening Ceremony and its annual thematic event, “Caring for Skin, Health and Beauty”, at the Hilton Garden Inn in Mong Kok, Hong Kong.

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The Inauguration Ceremony featured opening speeches by Professor Zheng Zhizhong, Chairman of the International Skin Health Foundation and Chief Physician at Fudan University Huashan Hospital, and Professor Xiang Leihong, Executive Director of the International Skin Health Foundation and also Chief Physician at Fudan University Huashan Hospital. Professor He Li, founding board member of the International Skin Health Foundation and Chief Physician at the Yunnan Provincial Dermatology Hospital, Kunming Medical University, shared their valuable insights on skin health. The event aimed to enhance public awareness of skin health while providing practical and suitable treatment plan, attracting numerous guests, experts, media representatives.

Addressing the ceremony, Chairman of the International Skin Health

Foundation and Chief Physician at Fudan University Huashan Hospital, Professor Zheng Zhizhong remarked, “Skin health is a reflection of people’s pursuit of health and a higher quality of life. With the rapid development of society, skin issues such as acne, skin allergies, Atopic Dermatitis, athlete’s foot, and Cholasma have become increasingly prevalent due to environmental factors, dietary habits, and lifestyle changes. The increasing public awareness of health issues, including acqire dermatological information and those platforms on dermatological awareness and prventive behaviours. In response to the mission of promoting health and giving back to the community through public service, the International Skin Health Foundation was established.” Founded in 2021, the foundation is a non-profit charitable organisation that took several years to establish. Its mission is to use a non-profit, socially beneficial platform to promote, enhance, and disseminate skin health education, raise awareness of self-care, and foster collaboration between industry, academia, and research to advance skin health awareness, prevent skin diseases, and reduce the distress caused by problematic skin. It aims to guide the public in adopting healthy lifestyles to prevent skin issues, find information on diagnosis, treatment and prevention for skin conditions caused by allergies, certain diseases, immune system problems and more, thereby promoting public skin health and beauty for the benefit of society.

Following this, Professor Xiang Leihong outlined the foundation’s development plan for the next five to ten years, stating that work will be carried out across the following dimensions: promoting skin health knowledge, advancing collaboration between industry and academia, mastering skincare methods and product applications, enhancing life experiences, and benefiting the community; facilitating academic collaboration and exchange in the field of dermatology within Asia, particularly in mainland China and Hong Kong, to improve research and prevention levels for skin diseases and advance the industry; establishing research funding schemes to provide financial support to non-profit organisations involved in skin research, promoting academic exchange in skin disease prevention and treatment; offering free community education and training programmes related to skin management, enhancing the professionalism of practitioners in the field of skin health, and advancing public education on skin diseases; providing appropriate support to patients with skin diseases in need, such as charitable donations and assistance related to treatment and prevention. She stated, “The pursuit of public welfare ideals is a meaningful and endless journey. We look forward to continued concern and support from all parties to contribute to the development of healthy living and public welfare.”

The skin health popular science lecture was delivered by Professor He Li, who elaborated on the characteristics and care methods for the skin of the elderly:

1. Skin Structure

The skin is the largest organ of the human body, covering the entire surface and serving as the body’s natural outer garment, playing a vital protective role. It is the most sensitive organ to changes in the external environment. When the skin is injured, the epidermis is usually the first to be affected. The stratum corneum forms a brick wall structure, providing a strong barrier to retain moisture and protect skin health. It offers comprehensive defence against ultraviolet rays, microorganisms, and various physical and chemical stimuli, while also locking in bodily moisture to maintain internal stability.

2. Characteristics of Elderly Skin

As age increases, bodily functions decline, including skin structure and function. The stability of the stratum corneum’s brick wall structure decreases, leading to reduced moisture retention and weakened resistance.

Additionally, the skin’s cell renewal ability declines, and sebaceous and sweat glands atrophy, resulting in decreased sebum secretion. This causes elderly skin to thin, dry out, lose elasticity, develop pigmentation, produce wrinkles, and experience various age-related skin diseases. Common conditions include xerotic eczema, psoriasis, chronic actinic dermatitis, and senile pruritus (skin appears normal but is associated with recurrent itching). Although various factors contribute to these skin diseases, the dry air during autumn and winter reduces the moisture content of the skin’s surface, compounded by decreased sebum secretion in the elderly, which leads to dryness and impaired skin barrier function, making them sensitive to external stimuli and causing discomfort such as itching.

3. Key Points for Elderly Skincare

Elderly individuals should pay attention to skin hydration throughout all seasons and avoid frequent bathing. They should consistently use moisturising skincare products all over the body to prevent the aforementioned age-related skin issues from arising. Additionally, sun protection is crucial; when going outdoors, they should wear hats, use umbrellas, and apply sunscreen to prevent long-term ultraviolet exposure and the risk of skin cancer. Professor He emphasised, “Elderly individuals must focus on skin hydration throughout the year, avoid frequent bathing, and use moisturising skincare products, especially during autumn and winter. Furthermore, sun protection is essential; appropriate measures should be taken to prevent UV damage to the skin when outdoors.”

During the event, participants actively exchanged skincare experiences and insights, creating a lively atmosphere that further conveyed the concepts of care and health. The International Skin Health Foundation hopes that this event will promote societal awareness of skin health and help the public establish a scientific skincare perspective. The foundation will continue to uphold its public welfare mission and strive to promote skin health management and self-care concepts, providing the public with more professional guidance and support.

We extend our gratitude to all guests, experts, media representatives, and volunteers who participated in this event for their support and efforts, contributing to its success. The International Skin Health Foundation looks forward to continuing to work together with everyone in the days to come to improve public skin health.

Hashtag: #InternationalSkinHealthFoundation

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

Gorilla Technology Sets New Networking Infrastructure Benchmark with Launch of the Game-Changing Gorilla Intelligent Network Director

Redefining Network Infrastructure – Simplified, Secure and Built for Tomorrow


LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM – Newsfile Corp. – 14 October 2024 – Gorilla Technology Group Inc. (NASDAQ: GRRR) (“Gorilla” or the “Company”), is proud to announce the launch of Gorilla Intelligent Network Director – a groundbreaking platform designed to simplify connectivity and amplify productivity for businesses of all sizes.

In an era where businesses cannot afford even a moment of downtime, traditional networks are becoming obsolete. Gorilla Intelligent Network Director shatters those limitations with a future-ready solution that merges intelligent automation, seamless integration and security; all wrapped into one platform.

Dr. Rajesh Natarajan, CTO of Gorilla Technology Group, captures the significance of this launch:

“Today’s businesses are built on data, but they are often held hostage by networks that can’t keep up. With the Gorilla Intelligent Network Director, we are freeing businesses from these constraints. This isn’t just a product launch, it’s a new way of thinking about connectivity and growth. We’ve designed this platform to empower businesses to move faster, innovate fearlessly and scale without limits. Our team has worked tirelessly to create a solution that not only meets today’s demands but is also adaptable for the future, ensuring our clients are always one step ahead.”

Why Gorilla Intelligent Network Director Stands Apart:

  • Unmatched Control and Real-Time Intelligence – Gain a clear, instant view of your entire network on a single dashboard. Identify issues before they disrupt operations, ensuring that nothing slows you down.
  • True Hybrid Agility – Effortlessly bridge on-premise systems with private and public clouds, allowing for tailor-made solutions that adapt to your specific business needs. No more ‘one-size-fits-all’ networks; this is truly your network, your way.
  • Built-In Security for the Modern Age – Protect your data with first-class encryption and proactive threat detection across your network.
  • Seamless, Scalable Deployment – Whether you’re a fast-growing start-up, or an established global enterprise, the plug-and-play design means instant deployment without the hassle.

The Next Step in Network Evolution Starts Now

The Gorilla Intelligent Network Director is now available for Proof of Concept (PoC) trials. Forward-thinking enterprises have the exclusive opportunity to be among the first to experience this revolutionary platform, offering their insights and shaping the final version. Full market release is expected in the second half of 2025, bringing the power of Gorilla Intelligent Network Director to businesses worldwide.

Dr. Natarajan added, “This is an opportunity for companies to not only witness the future of networking but to help shape it. By collaborating with us through the Proof-of-Concept phase, businesses can influence the final product and be among the first to leverage a solution that will set new standards in network management. The Intelligent Network Director is poised to redefine speed, security and simplicity; setting a new benchmark for the entire industry.”

About Gorilla Technology Group Inc.

Headquartered in London U.K., Gorilla is a global solution provider in Security Intelligence, Network Intelligence, Business Intelligence and IoT technology. We provide a wide range of solutions, including, Smart City, Network, Video, Security Convergence and IoT, across select verticals of Government & Public Services, Manufacturing, Telecom, Retail, Transportation & Logistics, Healthcare and Education, by using AI and Deep Learning Technologies.

Our expertise lies in revolutionizing urban operations, bolstering security and enhancing resilience. We deliver pioneering products that harness the power of AI in intelligent video surveillance, facial recognition, license plate recognition, edge computing, post-event analytics and advanced cybersecurity technologies. By integrating these AI-driven technologies, we empower Smart Cities to enhance efficiency, safety and cybersecurity measures, ultimately improving the quality of life for residents.

For more information, please visit our website: Gorilla-Technology.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements, which are based on estimates, assumptions, and expectations. Actual results and performance could differ materially and adversely from those expressed or implied in forward-looking statements. Gorilla does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, except as required by law.

Investor Relations Contact:

Dave Gentry
RedChip Companies, Inc.
1-407-644-4256
GRRR@redchip.com

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

About Gorilla Technology Group Inc.

Sunlight Real Estate Investment Trust (“Sunlight REIT”) Achieves a Four-Star Rating in the 2024 GRESB Real Estate Assessment

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2024 – Henderson Sunlight Asset Management Limited (the “Manager“) is pleased to announce that Sunlight REIT has achieved a four-star rating in the 2024 GRESB Real Estate Assessment (“GRESB Assessment“), the leading global environmental, social and governance (“ESG“) benchmark in the real estate sector.

Mr. Wu Shiu Kee, Keith, Chief Executive Officer of the Manager, said, “We are delighted and honoured to have received a four-star rating in the latest GRESB Assessment – this recognition is a testament to the Manager’s unwavering commitment and ability to advance sustainability by integrating ESG values into the management and operations of Sunlight REIT. As a responsible landlord, we will continue to adhere to the overriding principle of striking a balance between profit, planet and people, and will strive to foster a culture of care and innovation to transit into a low-carbon economy and to create shared values for our stakeholders.”

Incidental to the change of financial year end date of Sunlight REIT from 30 June to 31 December, the next sustainability report of Sunlight REIT will cover an 18-month period from 1 July 2023 to 31 December 2024. To keep stakeholders abreast of the latest progress, the Manager will shortly upload an interim sustainability review to the corporate website of Sunlight REIT, providing a snapshot of the sustainability performance of Sunlight REIT for the 12 months ended 30 June 2024.

GRESB is a mission-driven and industry-led organization which provides a rigorous methodology and consistent framework to measure the ESG performance of real estate assets and portfolios. In 2023, more than 2,000 property companies, REITs, funds and developers with US7.2 trillion in assets participated, covering over 170,000 assets across 75 countries. Sunlight REIT has participated in GRESB Assessment since 2022.
Hashtag: #SunlightREIT #REIT

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

About Sunlight REIT

Listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited since 21 December 2006, Sunlight REIT (stock code: 435) is a real estate investment trust authorized by the Securities and Futures Commission and constituted by the trust deed dated 26 May 2006 (as amended and restated) (the “Trust Deed“). It offers investors the opportunity to invest in a diversified portfolio of 11 office and six retail properties in Hong Kong with a total gross rentable area of approximately 1.3 million sq. ft.. The office properties are located in both core and decentralized business areas, while the retail properties are situated in regional transportation hubs, new towns and urban areas with high population density.

About the Manager

The Manager of Sunlight REIT is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Henderson Land Development Company Limited. Its main responsibility is to manage Sunlight REIT and all of its assets in accordance with the Trust Deed in the sole interest of its unitholders.

ASEAN Summits Conclude with Key Agreements, Leadership Transition to Malaysia

ASEAN Summits Conclude with Key Agreements, Leadership Transition to Malaysia
Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone hands over the ASEAN Chairmanship gavel to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim during the closing ceremony of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits in Vientiane (Photo Credit: Bernama)

The 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits, held from 6-11 October in Vientiane, concluded with key agreements aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and addressing global challenges, alongside a leadership transition to Malaysia. 

A total of sixteen meetings brought together leaders from ASEAN member states and external partners, including Australia, Canada, China, South Korea, India, Japan, New Zealand, Russia, and the United States, among others. 

Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, as ASEAN Chair for 2024, led discussions that resulted in the adoption of over 90 outcome documents. These documents addressed key areas such as regional security, economic cooperation, sustainable development, and digital transformation.

Key Outcomes and External Cooperation

Among the adopted documents were the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Strengthening Supply Chain Connectivity, the ASEAN Declaration on Promoting Sustainable Agriculture, and the Declaration on Strengthening Regional Biosafety and Biosecurity.

Additionally, leaders endorsed the Strategic Plans to Implement the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, which will guide ASEAN’s long-term goals for a resilient, innovative, and people-centered community.

The summits also reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to resolving the Myanmar crisis through the Five-Point Consensus, while acknowledging progress in Timor-Leste’s path toward ASEAN membership.

ASEAN also strengthened its relations with partners, resulting in several agreements, including the ASEAN-China Joint Statements on combating telecommunications fraud, advancing smart agriculture, and facilitating cooperation in digital ecosystems, along with negotiations to upgrade the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area 3.0. The ASEAN-Republic of Korea Summit elevated bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, while the ASEAN-India Summit emphasized digital transformation and collaboration under India’s Act East Policy. The ASEAN-Canada Special Summit adopted a joint statement focused on enhancing connectivity and resilience.

At the closing ceremony, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone handed over the ASEAN Chairmanship gavel to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who will lead ASEAN in 2025 under the theme ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability.’ Laos’ chairmanship will officially conclude on 31 December.

Capital Links Forum Highlights Opportunities, Barriers to Investment in Laos

Capital Links Forum, Vientiane, Laos, 11 October.

On 11 October, Laos hosted the “Capital Links Forum” at the Souphattra Hotel in Vientiane, bringing together financial institutions, investors, policymakers, and fintech innovators. The event focused on the significant barriers hindering capital mobilization in the country, sparking critical discussions about how to unlock Laos’s economic potential.

Laos has long been an attractive economic and infrastructure partner for its neighbors, thanks to its strategic location in Southeast Asia. Many see great potential in Laos as a connecting hub for regional trade and investment. Recent initiatives, such as the “Land Locked to Land Linked” project—part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative—aim to enhance infrastructure and promote economic integration within the ASEAN region.

“The first time I came (to Laos), over a decade ago, there wasn’t much infrastructure development,” said Hongwei Wang, CEO of CGIF, a collaboration project involving ASEAN +3 and the Asian Development Bank. “Importing goods was challenging. Now, improved connectivity makes a big difference.”

Despite these advancements in physical connectivity, the financial landscape remains underdeveloped, especially in rural areas. Many residents lack access to formal banking services, resulting in what participants at the event referred to as a “capital lock.” This phenomenon restricts the efficient flow of investments that are vital for unlocking Laos’s economic potential.

In this context, Wang emphasized the importance of establishing a local currency bond market, which is essential for initiating the country’s first steps in bond issuance. One crucial aspect of Laos’s economic development is the establishment of a local currency bond market, Wang explained. 

Issuers in this market must meet specific criteria, but the advantages are substantial, according to Wang. With this in mind, CGIF’s support includes significant credit investments, allowing issuers to raise large amounts of capital. Previously, bonds could only be issued for up to three years; now, they can extend to five years. This extension is expected to positively impact the country’s economy in the long run, providing more stability and opportunities for growth.

“A larger investment base provides users with more opportunities. As we pursue this work, it’s essential to adhere to social and environmental standards, which is a crucial aspect of our mission,” Wang said. “What we offer to investors is an unconditional guarantee. This means that investors are 100 percent protected, no matter the circumstances. This level of security is one of the key benefits we provide.”

GCIF aims to contribute to regional financial integration through this project. 

Capital Links Forum, 11 October. (Photo supplied)

Addressing Financial Accessibility, Innovation

Throughout the day, attendees engaged in discussions about the challenges facing Laos’s financial sector. They highlighted the concentration of economic activity in Vientiane, which limits opportunities for development in other regions. Participants pointed out that an underdeveloped capital market, regulatory hurdles, and inadequate financial infrastructure are significant obstacles to attracting investment.

A major theme that emerged was the pressing need for improved access to financial services. Expanding banking facilities and financial products to underserved rural communities could foster greater economic participation and investment throughout the country.

“Blockchain may sound intimidating, but it’s something we engage with every day. It helps us simplify complex concepts. For example, in Thailand, we collaborate with specialists, and we’re currently building platforms that connect directly with customers,” said Vachara Aemavat, Co-founder and Co-CEO of SIX Network, he blockchain platform for reinventing the Digital Economy, and Co-founder of Computerlogy, a leading startup in Thailand that develops social media tools for enterprises, offering a variety of products such as social media analytics, command centers, and chatbots.

“Blockchain has been around for 5 to 10 years; we’re now in its second cycle. The real challenge is finding ways to generate revenue from this technology. While cryptocurrency appears significant, with around 3 million users, it’s still relatively small compared to the larger market,” he added.

In addition to identifying challenges, the event also brought up potential solutions, exploring successful financial products and innovative fintech solutions from other regions, emphasizing the importance of leveraging technology to enhance capital market connectivity. Discussions also focused on the impact of digital platforms on financial market efficiency, presenting a pathway for Laos to modernize its financial infrastructure.

Tech Path to Economic Resilience, Growth

As the tech startup scene gains momentum across the region, the qualities required for success are becoming clearer. Natavudh Pungcharoenpong, Founder and CEO of OOKBEE and Co-CEO of SIX Network, emphasized the importance of a strong entrepreneurial spirit. 

“In the early stages, it’s not just about being a tech expert; the entrepreneur must be resilient and visionary,” he said. “You need the ability to attract talented individuals who share your vision. Having good people on your team is crucial.” 

Natavudh also highlighted the necessity of financial acumen, “You need to secure funding to pay these talented individuals.” 

According to the tech expert, vision, talent, and funding forms are the foundations for successful tech entrepreneurs.

Natavudh Pungcharoenpong speaking at a panel, Capital Links Forum, Vientiane, Laos, 11 October. (Photo supplied)

When discussing the pitfalls of tech entrepreneurship, Natavudh pointed to timing as a critical factor in a startup’s success. 

“Launching at the right moment is vital, especially in a saturated market filled with innovative ideas and strong competition,” he explained. 

Without sufficient funding, even the best ideas can falter. “Tech development takes time, and without adequate financial resources, many startups struggle to scale.” He advised aspiring entrepreneurs to ensure they have someone on their team who excels in fundraising, as this can be a decisive factor in overcoming the challenges of growth.

Natavudh also recognizes the importance of community and local connections in building a successful tech venture. 

“The networking effect in local communities can be incredibly powerful. People know each other and are willing to help one another,” he notes. Drawing from his experiences in Thailand and Laos, he explains how collaborating with local entrepreneurs can offer a significant advantage. 

However, he also recognizes the value of seeking external partnerships to broaden a startup’s reach. 

“Given the smaller market size, working with outside investors or partners can be essential for growth,” he said.

The event’s alignment with the priorities of the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit 2024 strengthens Laos’s commitment to economic connectivity and resilience. As the nation transforms from a land-locked to a land-linked country, the discussions highlighted the crucial role of breaking down barriers to capital flow.

By addressing these financial challenges, Laos can better position itself as a key player in the ASEAN economy, attracting cross-border investments.