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Monash University Malaysia’s Colloids and Polymers Group Clinches Double Awards at National Nuclear Innovation Competition 2024


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media Outreach Newswire – 10 September 2024 – Monash University Malaysia is proud to announce that the Colloids and Polymers group, led by Dr Patrick Tang Siah Ying from Monash University Malaysia’s School of Engineering, has achieved remarkable success at the 2024 National Nuclear Innovation Award competition. The group secured two prestigious accolades, the Gold Medal for the best entry in the Environment and Natural Resources category, and the Special Award for Competitive Innovation across all categories.

The National Nuclear Innovation Award is an esteemed recognition program that highlights outstanding innovation and research and development efforts within Malaysia that advance nuclear science and technology applications. The double award won by the Colloids and Polymers group is a testament to their dedication and innovative approach in this critical field.

While traditional lead shielding is effective because of its high atomic number and density, it carries health risks, disposal challenges, and is heavy for prolonged use in medical environments. The award-winning research, conducted by a cross-institutional collaborative team, has led to the development of novel lead-free, flexible, and lightweight rubber composites that serve as sustainable radiation shielding materials. These innovative materials have promising applications in medical radiology personal protective equipment (PPE) and have the potential to revolutionise the future of radiation-proof, sustainable elastomeric materials in various technologically significant areas such as healthcare, heavy industries, aerospace and nuclear medicine.

“This remarkable success was made possible through the invaluable partnership and support from our collaborators at Sunway University, UniKL MICET, and Nuklear Agensi Malaysia,” stated Dr Tang, who is a senior lecturer at the Department of Chemical Engineering. “It is an incredible achievement for our cross-disciplinary supervision and collaboration, and we hope it serves as an inspiration to other students and researchers at the university and beyond.” His collaborative team is dedicated to pushing the frontiers of nuclear science research, with the goal of propelling innovation in the country’s rubber industry.

Dr Tang also extended special recognition to his outstanding research team members, including Final Year Project (FYP) student Alphonsus Tan for his excellent contributions, and supervisory team members Professor Goh Bey Hing of Sunway University, Dr Fahmi Asyadi Md Yusof and Associate Professor Ong Siew Kooi of UniKL MICET, Dr Janarthanan Supramaniam, Norshafarina Ismail, and PhD students Darren Low and How Sher Wei.

The double awards highlight the importance of cross-disciplinary research and the potential of collaborative efforts in driving advancements in nuclear science and technology. The Colloids and Polymers group’s innovative work has garnered national attention, setting a benchmark for future research in nuclear science and technology.

This recognition not only highlights Monash University Malaysia’s commitment to advancing research excellence but also highlights the collaborative efforts between academic institutions and research organisations to drive positive impact in the field of nuclear science and technology.Hashtag: #MonashUniversity

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

Monash University Malaysia

Monash University Malaysia, established in 1998, is the third-largest campus of Australia’s largest university and the first foreign university campus in Malaysia. We are a premier research-intensive Australian university ranked among the top 50 universities globally by the QS World University Rankings 2024 and a member of Australia’s prestigious Group of Eight (Go8). Monash University is also ranked 54 in the latest Times Higher Education World University Rankings. A self-accrediting university, we offer a distinctly international and culturally rich environment with approximately 9,300 students from 79 countries. Monash University Malaysia, including the Jeffrey Cheah School of Medicine and Health Sciences, is wholly owned and operated by Monash University since 2020.

Flooding in Luang Namtha Claims One Life, Forces Evacuations

Flooding in Luang Namtha Claims One Life, Forces Evacuations
Severe Flooding hits Luang Namtha Province on 9 September. (Photo credit: Teuan Vlp )

On 9 September, Luang Namtha Province was hit by heavy flooding due to Typhoon Yagi, causing significant disruption and damage. The floodwaters led to the temporary closure of Luang Namtha Airport, leaving many residents stranded and severely affected. The first floor of the local hospital was also inundated.

Weather Emergency Warning: Heavy Flooding Expected in Northern, Central Provinces

rainy weather in Laos
Rainy weather in Laos.

The Department of Meteorology and Hydrology has issued a severe weather warning due to anticipated heavy rainfall across northern and central provinces of Laos.

The alert is effective immediately, with concerns extending through the coming days.

A persistent low-pressure system combined with strong southwest winds is expected to bring substantial rainfall to the region. The heavy rain is anticipated to cause significant flooding, landslides, and flash floods.

Northeast (Phongsaly, Houaphan, and Xiengkhouang): Thunderstorms are forecasted with light to moderate intensity overall, but some areas may experience heavy rainfall and gusty winds, with temperatures ranging from 18 to 25 degrees Celsius.

Northwest (Luang Namtha, Bokeo, Oudomxay, Luang Prabang, and Xayaboury): This area is likely to see thunderstorms and heavy rain, with strong winds. Temperatures are expected to range from 22 to 31 degrees Celsius.

Vientiane Capital: Thunderstorms are predicted with light to moderate intensity, and some areas may experience heavy rain and gusty winds, with temperatures between 25 and 32 degrees Celsius.

Central Region (Vientiane Province, Bolikhamxay, Khammouane, and Savannakhet): Thunderstorms will be prevalent, with light to moderate rain expected across most areas. Heavy rainfall in some areas, combined with strong winds, is anticipated. Temperatures will range from 23 to 32 degrees Celsius.

South (Salavanh, Champasak, Sekong, and Attapeu): Thunderstorms are expected, with light to moderate rain in most areas and heavy rainfall in isolated cases.

The Department urges all local governments, communities, and relevant organizations in the affected provinces to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions. Residents should prepare for potential flooding, landslides, and other weather-related hazards.

For ongoing updates and more information, residents are advised to monitor official weather channels and emergency services.

Fotomax Enters the Photo Album Digitisation Market in Partnership with Capture.HK

Partnership Aims to Meet the Growing Demand for Digitisation Services, Projected to Reach $250 Million USD in Hong Kong Within the Next Decade


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 September 2024 – CaptureTM Hong Kong, a leading service provider of analogue media digitisation, is pleased to announce its new partnership with Fotomax, marking a significant milestone in the photo album digitisation market. This collaboration brings Capture.HK’s The Frame Digital Frame Bundle and The Photo Album Digitisation Kit to Fotomax branches, making photo digitisation services more accessible and helping individuals preserve their family memories digitally.

A Strategic Partnership to Bring Photo Digitisation to the Mass Market
Since Capture launched in 2022, the company has experienced remarkable growth in the media digitisation industry. With over two thousand orders processed and a current average order value of HK$3800, Capture.HK has become a key player in preserving cherished memories. A significant portion of these orders, 52% are dedicated to photo album digitisation. According to the above, Capture.HK is ready to capture a key market segment, with projections estimating that the industry is valued at $250 million USD in Hong Kong within the next ten years.

Fotomax CEO Ryan expressed his enthusiasm for the new collaboration, stating, “We are thrilled to launch Photo Album scanning with Capture.HK. Fotomax has cared for Hong Kong families’ memories for 42 years. Embracing digitisation is a natural and exciting progression in our commitment to preserving cherished moments for future generations.”

What is Available at Fotomax
As part of this collaboration, customers can now conveniently purchase Capture.HK’s latest products directly at 15 selected Fotomax stores:

  • Capture’s Album/ Photo Digitisation Kit: For just HK$238, digitise up to 200 photos with our comprehensive kit. Once digitised, your memories will be uploaded to Google Photos. If you prefer an alternative output format, you can opt for an additional USB flash drive for HK$80.
  • Capture‘s The Frame Bundle: The Frame Bundle, priced at HK$1188. This comprehensive package features The Frame along with our Album/Photo Digitisation Kit. With The Frame, you can effortlessly display and enjoy all your digitised memories.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with Fotomax, a household name in Hong Kong. It is incredibly significant that they have chosen to distribute Capture.HK’s products. Over the past two years since our launch in Hong Kong, we have built a strong reputation with thousands of satisfied customers. We are on a mission to save every Hong Kong’s families most cherished memories.” said Michael Chang, the CEO of Capture.HK.

Preserving Your Memories with Capture.HK
Given Hong Kong’s humid climate, physical photos are prone to discolouration, mould, and warping. Capture.HK offers a comprehensive and affordable solution for digitising analogue media, including photo albums, photographs, videotapes, slides and digital media, from deterioration. Our high-quality digitisation service preserves your memories in a digital format, allowing you to effortlessly view and share them online in your preferred output format, whether on a USB flash drive or through Google Photos. With Capture.HK, safeguarding and enjoying your memories has never been easier.

Learn more about Capture.HK:
Website: https://www.capture.hk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CaptureLimited
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Capture_HongKong/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9npy9yWNsH9qG-ZcaxfC7A
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/CaptureLimited/
Hashtag: #CaptureHK #Fotomax

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

About Capture.HK

Capture.HK is the leading analogue media digitisation service provider in Hong Kong. We digitise analogue media (photo albums, photographs, videotapes, digital media like USB Flash Drive, Compact Flash, DVD, etc) and slides, using our proprietary technology. Capture.HK is the only service that saves memories directly to Google Photos through secure Google authentication. In the USA, we have cooperated with Fujifilm, Google and retail giants like Walmart and Costco, to help more than 12 million families and organisations to safeguard their memories.

About Fotomax

Fotomax was established in Hong Kong in 1982. It is now fully owned by China – Hong Kong Photo Products Holdings Limited which is listed in the Hong Kong Stock Market. Fotomax has developed as the largest and leading photofinishing chains to provide high quality and most advanced imaging services in town.

SDAX completes Series B2 round with Muscat Precious Metals Refining Company LLC

  • MPMR is the premier precious metals refinery in Oman
  • Funds raised will go towards expansion plans in Asia and the Gulf Cooperation Council region (“GCC”)


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 September 2024 – SDAX, Singapore’s Digital Asset Exchange, is pleased to announce the successful closing of its US$50 million Series B2 funding round led by the Oman-based Muscat Precious Metals Refining Company LLC (“MPMR”). This follows a US$18 million Series B funding round in 2021 led by PSA International, Straits Trading Company, and New Horizon Global. They joined existing shareholders: ESR, RHT and Crazy Goats, supporting SDAX’s mission to empower investors with access to private markets and alternative investment opportunities.

The funds raised will accelerate the expansion of the SDAX ecosystem on several fronts, chief among them is the focus on client acquisition and the inclusion of other business lines such as wealth and fund management. Regional expansion is another priority, as is the launch of a digital asset exchange in Oman. This platform will not only provide a strategic gateway to the GCC and Africa but will also connect Oman to liquidity pools globally.

Rachel Chia, Chief Executive Officer of SDAX, said, “The successful Series B2 funding round is a testament to SDAX’s commitment to democratise access to institutional-grade private markets and alternative investments. We value the continued support of our current investors, and welcome both our new shareholders MPMR and the business potential that this new partnership brings. We are particularly excited about the opportunity to expand into the GCC region.”

Nick Cochrane-Dyet MBE of MPMR, and Chair-designate of SDAX, said: “After more than a year of working with SDAX, the results of our partnership have demonstrated the potential SDAX has to offer in democratising investments for financial inclusion. We look forward to deepening our partnership with SDAX by developing capabilities in Oman to provide companies in the GCC with an alternative source of funds, and to building a strong investor base in the region. We look forward to supporting SDAX’s growth journey and contributing to its continued success.”

Tan Chong Huat, outgoing Chairman of SDAX, said: “We welcome MPMR to our esteemed roster of shareholders and are proud of the SDAX team’s well-deserved achievements. Looking ahead, we are thrilled about SDAX’s international expansion and being recognised as one of the leading digital asset platforms globally. I am honoured to have been a part of SDAX’s success and now wish SDAX to attain further heights together with MPMR.”

In April this year, the diversity of products offered on SDAX’s platform has been bolstered by the strongest demand for gold in over a decade. SDAX had teamed up with MPMR to offer securitised Gold Tokens on the SDAX Exchange platform. First of their kind, these tokens offer investors fractional gold investments and trading, backed by physical gold bullion held at Le Freeport in Singapore. Following this, SDAX has issued a popular series of short-term gold financing notes offering investors double-digit yields.

Hashtag: #SDAX #digitalassets #fintech #innovation #financialinclusion #digitalexchange #democratization #tokenization #realworldassets


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

About SDAX

Singapore’s Digital Asset Exchange (SDAX) is a MAS-regulated investment and trading platform serving institutional, accredited and retail investors. We provide access to fractionalised institutional-grade investment opportunities that have not previously been available to most investors. Our strength lies in private credit, real estate and impactful investment opportunities. SDAX partners with corporates, financial institutions and family offices to bring access to the underserved market.

At SDAX, we commit our expertise and technological know-how to unlock innovative investment opportunities to drive sustainable and impactful growth.

SDAX represents the merged entities of digital asset exchange Digiassets Exchange Singapore (SDAX) and fintech company, Minterest Holdings.

The merger and rebranding bring synergy for SDAX by combining capabilities to offer both a Digital Asset Exchange, regulated under its Recognized Market Operator (RMO) licence, and Capital Markets Services, regulated under its Capital Markets Services (CMS) licence.

Visit our website .

About Muscat Precious Metals Refining Company LLC

Muscat Precious Metals Refining Company LLC (MPMR) was incorporated in the Sultanate of Oman led by CEO, H.E. Shihab Abusaidi. MPMR specialises in the smelting, refining, testing, trading and minting of precious metals such as gold, silver, platinum and palladium. MPMR – Oman’s first and to date, only gold refinery – refines approximately 40 tons of gold annually.

With years of experience, it plays a vital role in the pioneering, development and improvement of many industry standards in Oman, setting new benchmarks through the on-going integration of industry-leading technologies and the knowledge and skill sets of a highly specialised and dedicated team.

Happy5 Acquires Singaporean Startup SugarOKR To Accelerate Global Expansion


SINGAPORE – Media Outreach Newswire – 10 September 2024 – In a strategic move to bolster its global presence, Indonesia-based enterprise performance management software startup Happy5 has announced it is acquiring Singapore-based startup SugarOKR for an undisclosed sum. This acquisition marks a significant milestone in Happy5’s growth strategy, positioning the company for expansion into new international markets, including the United States.

The Happy5 team
The Happy5 team

This acquisition of SugarOKR, a renowned player in the Objectives and Key Results (OKR) tracking software space, underscores Happy5’s commitment to providing comprehensive solutions that cater to the evolving needs of modern businesses. With this acquisition, Happy5 aims to leverage SugarOKR’s cutting-edge OKR tool and expertise to accelerate its expansion into new territories and embark on its next phase of growth.

One of the most immediate benefits of Happy5 acquiring SugarOKR is the former’s entry into the highly competitive US market. SugarOKR’s established presence in the region, along with its reputation for delivering robust OKR solutions, will provide Happy5 with a solid foundation for expansion.

Mr Timothy Kua, Founder and CEO of SugarOKR, had this to say about the acquisition, “Happy5 has achieved a strong product market fit and is profitable with over US$1 million in annual recurring revenue. The firm wants to expand overseas, starting with the US, the most mature SaaS market with a high adoption rate. SugarOKR’s customer base, of which 20% are based in the US, offers the company the perfect lead-in to this brand-new market.”.

“Our priority is on expanding into the US market. Timothy brings his vast experience and skill set in building and scaling businesses of all sizes. With him leading the charge, coupled with the SugarOKR platform, which already has a strong global presence, Happy5 will have the much-needed boost to our global expansion efforts,” enthused Mr Doni Priliandi, Founder and CEO of Happy5.

In addition to geographical expansion, the acquisition will significantly enhance Happy5’s product capabilities. SugarOKR’s advanced OKR tracking software will complement Happy5’s existing suite of employee performance management software solutions, allowing companies to align their workforce around clear, measurable goals while maintaining a strong focus on employee well-being. This comprehensive offering will be a game-changer for businesses looking to drive both individual and organisational performance.

Future Outlook For Happy5 And SugarOKR

Looking ahead to the future for Happy5 and SugarOKR, there are currently no plans to integrate SugarOKR’s technology and team into the existing operations of Happy5. Instead, SugarOKR will continue operating as a standalone goal management software company. However, Happy5 plans to use SugarOKR’s website as a lead magnet to convert existing SugarOKR customers to Happy5’s platform, allowing them to benefit from the latter’s more robust platform.

In addition, following the acquisition of SugarOKR, Happy5 plans to expand globally even more rapidly while maintaining a focus on the US market by Q4 2024. It also targets to close 20 US customers by Q2 2025 and raise between US$3 to US$5 million by Q2 2025. Talks are already ongoing with various venture capitalists (VCs) to raise funding for the global expansion.

“Our key goal is to secure a VC based in the US as part of the mix. The SugarOKR acquisition, with Timothy Kua on board, will give VCs more confidence with a stronger leadership team and a leg-up from the SugarOKR platform,” added Mr Doni Priliandi.
Hashtag: #OKRtrackingsoftware #employeeperformancemanagementsoftware

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

About Happy5

Happy5 is a leading provider of enterprise performance management solutions that empower organisations to level up their workforce. Their suite of products in a single unified platform includes goal management (OKRs/KPIs), project management (tasks/initiatives), and performance management (360 reviews). For more information about the company and its enterprise performance management tool, please visit .

YUP, the “Nubank” from Southeast Asia, Secured US$30 Million in Series B Funding, Which Marks the Largest Equity Fundraising for the Fintech Sector in SEA This Year


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 September 2024 – YUP, the credit payment platform established by Singaporean startup Finture, has successfully raised US$30 million in its Series B funding round. The round was led by Hong Kong-based venture capital firm MindWorks Capital, with participation from XVC, SWC Global, Richen Pioneer, and Antao Capital. The funds will support market expansion in Southeast Asia and preparation for acquiring a banking license in Indonesia.

Finture’s flagship product, YUP, serves working-class users with stable incomes in Indonesia.
Finture’s flagship product, YUP, serves working-class users with stable incomes in Indonesia.

Finture is a Singapore-based fintech company with offices in Shanghai, Singapore, and Jakarta. Established in 2021, Finture operates its digital bank and credit payment business in Southeast Asia. Its flagship product, YUP, serves working-class users with stable incomes in Indonesia. The platform has partnered with over 40 million merchants nationwide, serving millions of users and processing tens of millions of transactions. YUP is projected to reach US$1 billion in transaction volume by 2024 and has already received over US$77 million in equity funding from investors, including the Sampoerna family, Sky9 Capital, BitRock Capital, etc.

Expanding Credit Card Access in Indonesia

YUP targets 80 million working-class individuals in Indonesia with stable incomes and regular social securities. Donny Zhang, Co-founder and CEO of Finture, stated, “While Southeast Asia’s fintech sector is experiencing rapid growth, personal payment solutions have lagged behind. Many individuals still lack access to basic credit card services offered by traditional banks. In Indonesia, where the credit card penetration rate stands at just 2%, we firmly believe that every consumer with a stable income deserves access to a credit card.”

Digital payments now account for over 50% of transactions in Southeast Asia, with a total gross transaction value (GTV) of US$959 billion in 2023[1]. YUP’s credit card services, including both physical and virtual cards, are well-positioned to meet this demand. As the only tech firm in Indonesia to sign a strategic partnership with VISA, YUP has secured Indonesia’s highest-level payment license (E-Money), lending license, and fintech innovation licenses. The company is now planning to invest in Indonesian banking license.

All-in-One Service Platform Collaborating with Top Merchants

In addition to credit card services, YUP is collaborating with leading global and Indonesian merchants to introduce the “Lifestyle in Your Pocket” concept to Southeast Asia. The platform integrates lifestyle, consumption, and financial services, covering various daily spending scenarios. YUP’s merchant partners include Indonesia’s largest retail group MAP (operating brands such as Starbucks, Nike, Adidas, Zara, Sephora, Boss, CK, etc.), VISA, KFC, Korean cinema chain CGV, Indonesia’s leading convenience store chains Indomaret and Alfamart, Haagen-Dazs, British Petroleum, Indonesia’s largest taxi platform Bluebird, Family Mart, and others.

YUP’s founding team brings extensive experience from top financial institutions and companies such as Bank of America, China Merchants Bank, Bank of Communications, Discovery, and Ant Group. Co-founder and CEO Donny Zhang transitioned from management consulting at Accenture to fintech, becoming a venture capitalist and entrepreneur with nearly a decade of experience in the Southeast Asia fintech sector. Co-founder Matt Zou, a specialist in personal credit management, has worked at the Bank of Communications’ credit card center and ANZ Bank’s credit card operations across Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines. He also served as Chief Risk Officer at Advance.ai and co-founded Atome, a leading BNPL brand in Southeast Asia.

Doubling Its Valuation and Future Expansion

Despite a slowdown in the Asian funding landscape, with total venture capital investment falling to US$14.6 billion in Q2 2024—a 56% decline from the same period in 2022 and a 32% decrease year-over-year[2]—YUP has secured US$30 million in equity investment, and its valuation has doubled. Gavin Guo, CFO of Finture, highlighted three key points that made YUP stand out from its peers. First, YUP’s business model has a clear trajectory of future growth, similar to players in other emerging markets, such as Brazil’s Nubank. Secondly, YUP’s deep expertise in Southeast Asia, with all senior management and over 80% of employees based in Jakarta, gives it a strong local presence. Thirdly, YUP’s solid business and financial performance have been crucial in the current challenging market. “Companies need to excel to justify their valuations in challenging times. We’ve consistently seen positive unit economics and strong customer lifetime value (LTV) over the past three years,” said Guo.

YUP plans to extend its innovative financial products to Hong Kong, Vietnam, and the Philippines. The company will open a new office in Hong Kong to oversee capital market activities and recruit R&D talents, with the possibility of relocating its headquarters from Singapore to Hong Kong in the future. YUP aims to serve 50 million users over the next 8 to 10 years, positioning itself as Southeast Asia’s leading digital banking service platform with plans for a U.S. IPO in the next 3 to 5 years.

[1] Google, Temasek, and Bain & Company, “e-Conomy SEA 2023” report: https://www.bain.com/insights/e-conomy-sea-2023/
[2] CrunchBase Q2 2024 Asia Startup Funding Report: https://news.crunchbase.com/ai/asia-venture-42dot-hozon-zepto-china/
Hashtag: #Finture #YUP


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

Finture

Finture is a Singapore-based fintech company that has offices in Shanghai, Singapore, and Jakarta. Established in 2021, Finture operates its digital bank and credit payment business in Southeast Asia. Finture believes everyone is eligible to have the access to easy, convenient, and affordable financial products. Cooperated with local financial institutions and fintech companies, Finture has achieved exponential growth since launching its first product YUP, which now has become one of the most popular consumer finance APPs in Indonesia, and the number of new credit card issuances has already exceeded that of the largest local bank.

Official Website:

Jockey Club launches Philanthropy for Better Cities Forum 2024, ushering in Hong Kong Philanthropy Week

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 September 2024 – The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust convened its fourth Philanthropy for Better Cities (PBC) Forum 2024 at West Kowloon Cultural District today (9 September). It ushered in Hong Kong Philanthropy Week, in keeping with the HKSAR Government’s mission to promote the city as an international philanthropy hub.

HKSAR Government Chief Secretary for Administration Chan Kwok-ki (front row, centre), Club Chairman Michael Lee (front row, 6th left), Club Deputy Chairman Martin Liao (front row, 5th left), Club Stewards, Club CEO Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges (front row, 6th right) and Club management pose for a group photo at the opening ceremony of the Philanthropy for Better Cities Forum 2024.
HKSAR Government Chief Secretary for Administration Chan Kwok-ki (front row, centre), Club Chairman Michael Lee (front row, 6th left), Club Deputy Chairman Martin Liao (front row, 5th left), Club Stewards, Club CEO Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges (front row, 6th right) and Club management pose for a group photo at the opening ceremony of the Philanthropy for Better Cities Forum 2024.

The two-day PBC Forum provides a platform for foundations, thought-leaders, policymakers, non-governmental organisations and experts from around the world to convene, engage in dialogue and share transformative ideas on translating philanthropic action into tangible, sustainable impact. Under an overarching theme of “Delivering Impactful Philanthropy in the Real World”, the forum features keynote speeches and panel discussions. It brings together nearly 100 eminent speakers and more than 2,000 delegates from 40 countries and regions including representatives of over 200 local, regional and global foundations.

The Club’s Charities Trust convened the forum in association with the Institute of Philanthropy (IoP), a charitable organisation launched by the Club and its Trust at the opening of the third PBC Forum in September 2023.

Through a video address at the forum, HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee said, “This forum is testament to Hong Kong’s commitment to philanthropy. It is proudly presented by The Hong Kong Jockey Club and its Charities Trust, a long-standing leader in championing our philanthropic endeavours.” He added, “The HKSAR Government is committed to Hong Kong’s rise as a global centre for philanthropy. That goal was formalised in our Policy Statement on Developing Family Office Businesses in Hong Kong. Our vision is to provide philanthropists with the tools they need to manage their wealth, while channelling their resources into social initiatives that create tangible impact. We are determined to realise Hong Kong as a go-to destination for global family offices passionate about making a difference.”

Officiating at the opening ceremony of this year’s forum was HKSAR Government Chief Secretary for Administration Chan Kwok-ki, the Club’s Chairman Michael Lee and Club CEO Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges.

In his welcome speech at the opening ceremony, the Club’s Chairman said, “In Asia – home to the most populous nations and fastest-developing economies – we are experiencing rapid growth in philanthropic giving commensurate with the region’s rising prosperity through development. However, Asian philanthropy requires properly contextualised models and solutions to account for varied political, economic and cultural contexts that are different from established, largely Western models. Unlocking its full potential will be crucial in addressing shared social and environmental challenges most effectively.”

Leading foundations participating in this year’s PBC Forum include the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, China Soong Ching Ling Foundation, Nippon Foundation, Rockefeller Foundation, Tanoto Foundation, Temasek Foundation, Tencent Charity Foundation and the Wellcome Trust.

Julia Gillard – Chair of the Wellcome Trust, Chair of the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership and former Prime Minister of Australia – delivered today’s opening keynote entitled: “East is East and West is West: how does philanthropy differ and how can we best work together?”

Professor Michael Spence – 2001 Nobel Laureate in Economics, Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean Emeritus of the Stanford Business School and Senior Fellow, Hoover Institution of Stanford University – delivered the second keynote entitled: “The economics of giving: what makes us give? What stops us from giving more?”

Additionally at the forum, representatives from the Department of Health of the HKSAR Government, the Club and IoP witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Collaboration between the Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention and three local universities to strengthen capacity for monitoring and responding to epidemics in the Greater Bay Area. The local institutes are the Hong Kong Jockey Club Global Health Institute at the University of Hong Kong, the Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care at the Chinese University of Hong Kong and the Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Science at the City University of Hong Kong. The memorandum follows the “One Health” approach which the Club has long supported including through the establishment of these university institutes.

This year the forum programme spans five days. It began with a welcome luncheon at the opening of Hong Kong’s 2024/25 horseracing season on 8 September, followed by the two- day forum. The Foundations Circle and additional side-events will be convened by IoP on 11 and 12 September. In addition, the Hong Kong Academy for Wealth Legacy will also host a three-day summit from 12-14 September, rounding out Hong Kong Philanthropy Week.

The Club’s support for the PBC Forum, like all of its charity and community initiatives, is made possible by its unique integrated business model through which racing and wagering generate tax contributions, charity support and employment opportunities for the community.

Photo Captions

HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee delivers a video address at the opening ceremony of the Philanthropy for Better Cities Forum 2024.
HKSAR Chief Executive John Lee delivers a video address at the opening ceremony of the Philanthropy for Better Cities Forum 2024.

Club Chairman Michael Lee delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of the Philanthropy for Better Cities Forum 2024.
Club Chairman Michael Lee delivers a speech at the opening ceremony of the Philanthropy for Better Cities Forum 2024.

The Memorandum of Collaboration was signed by Li Qun, Deputy Director General, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (front row, 2nd right); Prof Chak-sing Lau, Dean of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong (front row, 2nd left); Prof Philip Chiu Wai-yan, Dean of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (front row, 1st right); and Prof Vanessa Barrs, Dean, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong (front row, 1st left). The signing ceremony was witnessed by Michael Lee, Chairman of The Hong Kong Jockey Club (back row, 2nd right); Lester Huang, Chairman of IoP and Steward of The Hong Kong Jockey Club (back row, 1st left); Winfried Engelbrecht- Bresges, CEO of The Hong Kong Jockey Club and Director of IoP (back row, 1st right); and Dr Ronald Lam, Director of Health, HKSAR Government (back row, 2nd left).
The Memorandum of Collaboration was signed by Li Qun, Deputy Director General, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (front row, 2nd right); Prof Chak-sing Lau, Dean of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong (front row, 2nd left); Prof Philip Chiu Wai-yan, Dean of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (front row, 1st right); and Prof Vanessa Barrs, Dean, Jockey Club College of Veterinary Medicine and Life Sciences, City University of Hong Kong (front row, 1st left). The signing ceremony was witnessed by Michael Lee, Chairman of The Hong Kong Jockey Club (back row, 2nd right); Lester Huang, Chairman of IoP and Steward of The Hong Kong Jockey Club (back row, 1st left); Winfried Engelbrecht- Bresges, CEO of The Hong Kong Jockey Club and Director of IoP (back row, 1st right); and Dr Ronald Lam, Director of Health, HKSAR Government (back row, 2nd left).

Moderated by Laura M. Cha, Trustee of the Rockefeller Foundation, Former Chairman of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd (left), Julia Gillard, Chair of the Wellcome Trust, Chair of the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership and former Prime Minister of Australia, (right) delivered the opening keynote: “East is East and West is West: how does philanthropy differ and how can we best work together?”
Moderated by Laura M. Cha, Trustee of the Rockefeller Foundation, Former Chairman of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd (left), Julia Gillard, Chair of the Wellcome Trust, Chair of the Global Institute for Women’s Leadership and former Prime Minister of Australia, (right) delivered the opening keynote: “East is East and West is West: how does philanthropy differ and how can we best work together?”

The second plenary session entitled “Innovations for a Healthier Global South: What is the role of philanthropy in supporting global health research and interventions?” was moderated by Professor Margaret Chan, Founding Dean of the Vanke School of Public Health, Tsinghua University, and Emeritus Director General of World Health Organization (1st right). It featured Rebecca F. Grais, Executive Director of the Pasteur Network (1st left); Ilona Kickbusch, Director of Digital Health Transformations LAB, University of Geneva, Chair and Founder of the Global Health Center Geneva at the Graduate Institute Geneva and Co-chair of the Council of the World Health Summit (2nd left); Professor Peter Piot, Professor of Global Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Special Advisor to European Commission President von der Leyen on European and Global Health Security (3rd left); Naveen Rao, Senior Vice-President of the Health Initiative at the Rockefeller Foundation (3rd right); and Carsten Schicker, Chief Executive Officer of the World Health Summit (2nd right).
The second plenary session entitled “Innovations for a Healthier Global South: What is the role of philanthropy in supporting global health research and interventions?” was moderated by Professor Margaret Chan, Founding Dean of the Vanke School of Public Health, Tsinghua University, and Emeritus Director General of World Health Organization (1st right). It featured Rebecca F. Grais, Executive Director of the Pasteur Network (1st left); Ilona Kickbusch, Director of Digital Health Transformations LAB, University of Geneva, Chair and Founder of the Global Health Center Geneva at the Graduate Institute Geneva and Co-chair of the Council of the World Health Summit (2nd left); Professor Peter Piot, Professor of Global Health, London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine, Special Advisor to European Commission President von der Leyen on European and Global Health Security (3rd left); Naveen Rao, Senior Vice-President of the Health Initiative at the Rockefeller Foundation (3rd right); and Carsten Schicker, Chief Executive Officer of the World Health Summit (2nd right).

Delivering the second keynote entitled “The Economics of Giving: What makes us give? What stops us from giving more?” was Professor Michael Spence, 2001 Nobel Laureate in Economics, Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean Emeritus of the Stanford Business School and Senior Fellow, Hoover Institution of Stanford University (left). The moderator was Professor Stephen Cheung, Voting Member of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Vice-Chairman of CMB Wing Lung Bank and Former President of the Education University of Hong Kong (right).
Delivering the second keynote entitled “The Economics of Giving: What makes us give? What stops us from giving more?” was Professor Michael Spence, 2001 Nobel Laureate in Economics, Philip H. Knight Professor and Dean Emeritus of the Stanford Business School and Senior Fellow, Hoover Institution of Stanford University (left). The moderator was Professor Stephen Cheung, Voting Member of The Hong Kong Jockey Club, Vice-Chairman of CMB Wing Lung Bank and Former President of the Education University of Hong Kong (right).

Photos can be downloaded from the website of The Hong Kong Jockey Club (www.hkjc.com/english/corporate/corp_news.asp).
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The Hong Kong Jockey Club

Founded in 1884, The Hong Kong Jockey Club is a world-class racing club that acts continuously for the betterment of our society. The Club has a unique integrated business model, comprising racing and racecourse entertainment, a membership club, responsible sports wagering and lottery, and charities and community contribution. Through this model, the Club generates economic and social value for the community and supports the HKSAR Government in combatting illegal gambling. In 2023/24, the Club returned a total of HK$40.1 billion to the community. This included HK$29.9 billion to the HKSAR Government in duty, profits tax and Lotteries Fund contributions and HK$10.2 billion in approved charity donations. The Club is Hong Kong’s largest single taxpayer and one of the city’s major employers. Its Charities Trust is one of the world’s leading charity donors. Please visit .

Institute of Philanthropy

The Institute of Philanthropy was established in September 2023 through a strategic seed grant of HK$6.8 billion (US$870 million) from The Hong Kong Jockey Club and its Charities Trust. Established as an independent “think-fund-do” tank for China and Asia, IoP is dedicated to promoting philanthropic thought leadership and enhancing sector capabilities at local, regional and global levels in collaboration with fellow funders. It seeks to provide an Asia-based platform bringing global stakeholders together to promote the betterment of societies everywhere.