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“Grow with Xiaomi”: Xiaomi’s International Internet Partner Strategy for 2024 Announced

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 2 November 2023 – On October 20th, Xiaomi Internet Partner Conference (MIPC Singapore 2024) successfully concluded its proceedings in Singapore. The event garnered the participation of over 300 leading partners and developers from more than 30 countries.

Xiaomi MIPC Conference in Singapore - 20 October 2023.jpeg

During the conference, Ms. Liu Chan, General Manager of Xiaomi Internet Business Department, introduced the 2024 International Internet Partner Growth Strategy, titled ‘Grow with Xiaomi.’ This strategic initiative harnesses Xiaomi’s core on-device competencies as a smartphone manufacturer to fully embrace global partners, jointly establishing a preeminent ecosystem for app and game distribution, content delivery, user growth, and monetization services. The ultimate objective is to deliver an exceptional mobile internet service experience to users.

The Xiaomi international Internet business team delivered in-depth presentations on Xiaomi’s global internet services at the conference, which involves its global expansion in key areas including app and game distribution, game publishing, content services, user growth, monetization, and payment solutions. During the event, Xiaomi unveiled three core services: “Global IAP Games Joint Operation”, “Instant Web” and the “Columbus Monetization Platform.” These announcements garnered enthusiastic acclaim from the conference attendees.

In the realm of apps and games distribution, Xiaomi’s official app store, GetApps, has expanded its reach to over 60 global markets, boasting a monthly active user base exceeding 260 million. GetApps has also introduced several innovative features and services, supporting apps & game distribution through short videos and launching an AI-powered app recommendation assistant. During this conference, Xiaomi’s app store officially announced the introduction of the Global IAP Games Joint Operation service, aimed at helping developers acquire high-value users and rapid revenue growth with minimal customer acquisition costs. Additionally, Xiaomi has unveiled a fresh upgrade to the “Voyage Project”, supporting 100 apps and games, each set to benefit from over 10 million downloads on Xiaomi devices.

In the domain of content distribution, Xiaomi has introduced an extensive content service ecosystem that spans multiple devices, providing diverse content through various touch points. This ecosystem includes features like lock screen posters, -1 screen, Web browser, Mi Video, H5 games, and more. By harnessing Xiaomi’s core on-device competencies as a smartphone manufacturer, Xiaomi caters to an extensive user base and generates significant revenues for its partners. Particularly noteworthy is Xiaomi’s latest proprietary web acceleration framework, “Instant Web,” capable of boosting webpage loading speeds by a factor of eight, achieving nearly instantaneous loading times with wide-ranging applications.

In terms of monetization, Xiaomi’s user growth platform capitalizes on the advantages of being a smartphone manufacturer, leveraging its on-device capabilities to address pain points for advertisers and achieve a high return on investment (ROI) in the industry. This platform employs smartphone OEM-specific solutions with benefits from system-level support, operates seamlessly across devices, and uses AI to enhance user growth. During the event, Xiaomi officially introduced the Columbus Monetization Platform, which supports flexible integration, diverse budget options, and real-time bidding, thereby maximizing the attainable commercial value for the developers.

In recent years, Xiaomi’s overseas Internet business has maintained rapid growth and continues to exhibit significant growth potential. According to Xiaomi Corporation’s Q2 2023 quarterly results, the revenue from Xiaomi’s internet services reached RMB 7.4 billion in that quarter, marking a historical high, with a gross profit margin of 74.1%. Notably, overseas Internet revenue grew by 19.7% year-over-year, reaching RMB 2 billion, also a historical high, with overseas Internet revenue accounting for 26.8% of the overall Internet revenue.

Regarding this growth, Ms. Liu Chan stated, “Our sustained growth hinges on our collective effort to continuously create value for all participants in the Xiaomi internet services ecosystem, including our users, partners, and suppliers. It is through this collective engagement that the entire internet ecosystem thrives. We look forward to establishing and deepening collaborations with both new and existing partners to explore new mutually beneficial ways and share the fruits of our global market successes with every industry partner, ultimately enhancing how mobile Internet and digital technology serve our society and every individual.”

Hashtag: #Xiaomi

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

About Xiaomi Corporation

Xiaomi Corporation was founded in April 2010 and listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on July 9, 2018 (1810.HK). Xiaomi is a consumer electronics and smart manufacturing company with smartphones and smart hardware connected by an IoT platform at its core.

With an equal emphasis on innovation and quality, Xiaomi continuously pursues high-quality user experience and operational efficiency. The company relentlessly builds amazing products with honest prices to let everyone in the world enjoy a better life through innovative technology.

As of the second quarter of 2023, Xiaomi ranked among the top 3 in the global smartphone market, in terms of smartphone shipments, according to Canalys. The company has also established the world’s leading consumer AIoT (AI+IoT) platform, with 654.5 million smart devices connected to its platform, excluding smartphones, tablets and laptops, as of June 30, 2023. Xiaomi products are present in more than 100 countries and regions around the world. In August 2023, the company listed as Fortune Global 500 for the 5th consecutive year.

Xiaomi is a constituent of the Hang Seng Index, Hang Seng China Enterprises Index, Hang Seng TECH Index and Hang Seng China 50 Index.

Gentari partners AM Green to drive large-scale green hydrogen production with global reach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach – 2 November 2023 – Gentari Sdn Bhd (Gentari), via its wholly-owned subsidiary Gentari International Renewables Pte Ltd, has entered into an agreement with AM Green BV (AM Green) to jointly invest, in phases, into a green ammonia platform, AM Green Ammonia Holdings BV (AMG Ammonia). AMG Ammonia is established by the founders of Greenko, one of India’s leading renewable energy companies. An affiliate of Singapore investment entity, GIC, is also an investor in AMG Ammonia.

AMG Ammonia is projected to produce 5 million tonnes per annum (MTPA) of green ammonia using round-the-clock renewable energy by 2030. The platform aims to deliver green ammonia, as it is presently the most mature and stable form of transporting hydrogen.

The 5 MTPA of green ammonia produced is equivalent to approximately 1 MTPA of green hydrogen, and would represent 20% of India’s target for green hydrogen production by 2030, or 10% of Europe’s target for imported renewable hydrogen. This size and capacity will place AMG Ammonia among the world’s pioneers in large-scale and cost-competitive green ammonia production. The first export of green ammonia from this platform is targeted by late 2025, and aims to serve key OECD markets, such as Germany, Japan and South Korea, as well as Singapore.

Gentari and AM Green both bring complementary capabilities across the green hydrogen value chain, including renewable energy, electrolysers, and ammonia production and marketing capabilities. The parties will mutually invest in AMG Ammonia, demonstrating full commitment to realise the platform’s potential and expand their presence in Asia Pacific and Europe. Post-investment from Gentari, AM Green and GIC, AMG Ammonia will be a fully funded platform for the targeted ammonia production plan. The platform is expected to invest, in phases, into projects across different locations in India. This will ensure competitive supply of hydrogen to the global market and will be key for manufacturing and exporting green hydrogen in the region.

For Gentari, strong collaborations in its focus market of Malaysia and the broader Asia Pacific, will be vital to delivering its global ambition of up to 1.2 MTPA in clean hydrogen by 2030. In Malaysia, the company sees strong potential for developing a local hydrogen economy. To this end, Gentari has undertaken efforts to position Malaysia as a hydrogen export hub whereby its hydrogen ventures will support a comprehensive national roadmap that includes hydrogen as an energy transition lever for Malaysia.

These efforts include working with Sarawak’s SEDC Energy Sdn Bhd to jointly explore the state’s potential as a green hydrogen production hub. At the same time, Gentari is also collaborating with PETRONAS and Tenaga Nasional Berhad to advance studies on green hydrogen development in Kerteh, Terengganu and Pengerang, Johor towards the creation of a hydrogen economy in Malaysia.

Sushil Purohit, Chief Executive Officer of Gentari, said:

“As Gentari expands our portfolio of clean energy solutions in Malaysia, Asia Pacific and beyond, we believe in the critical importance of industry-level collaborations that combine complementary strengths and unlock synergies. This partnership with AM Green and GIC is a testament to our commitment in accelerating green hydrogen adoption globally, to make an impact in the pursuit of a net zero future. In OECD, Southeast and East Asian economies, green ammonia will address the decarbonisation of industries such as power generation, through co-firing, as well as shipping.”

Anil Chalamalasetty, Founder, Greenko Group and AM Green said:

“We are delighted to partner with Gentari and GIC, to venture into the global low carbon green economy. The commitment from Gentari and GIC underpins Prime Minister Modi’s vision for India to become a leader in global energy transition. This strategic partnership will work to accelerate net zero targets of various industries and several OECD economies. Continuous focus on innovation combined with execution will ensure our venture, AM Green, remains ahead of others in becoming a global clean energy transition solutions platform.”

Gentari was advised by BofA Securities and Shardul Amarchand Mangaldas & Co. Completion of the transaction is subject to the fulfilment of customary condition precedents.

Hashtag: #Gentari

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

Gentari

Gentari is focused on delivering the solutions required to put clean energy into action today, to transform how we live tomorrow. Gentari’s three initial core pillars of Renewable Energy, Hydrogen and Green Mobility form a comprehensive portfolio of solutions to help our customers in their decarbonisation journey. Its global 2030 aspiration is to achieve 30-40 GW of installed capacity in renewable energy, up to 1.2 MTPA of clean hydrogen, and over 10% share of the public charging points and Vehicle-as-a-Service market across key countries in Asia Pacific. In the long term, Gentari aims to be the most valued clean energy solutions partner, creating greater impact, connecting businesses, and making the journey to a net zero future possible.

AM Green

AM Green is indirectly wholly-owned and controlled by the founders of Hyderabad-based Greenko Group – Anil Chalamalasetty and Mahesh Kolli. With their strength in renewable energy and storage as a service model, and track record of energy entrepreneurship, AM Green aims to become one of the most cost-competitive producers of green hydrogen, green ammonia and other green molecules in the world. In India, AM Green is developing production capabilities for green molecules (green hydrogen, green ammonia, biofuels, green caustic soda, e-methanol) for decarbonisation in hard to abate industries. The venture will also set up an international renewables and storage business and a JV for making electrolysers with John Cockerill of Belgium.

International Organizations Join Forces to Support Laos’ Fight Against Malnutrition

School meal program in southern Laos. (Photo/WFP Laos, Vilakhone Sipaseut)

In the face of persistent challenges, Laos grapples with high rates of malnutrition, hindering the nation’s development, according to the latest findings from the Lao Social Indicator Survey. The Southeast Asian nation is witnessing some of the highest malnutrition rates in the region.

The survey highlighted issues in coordination among nutrition centers and other departments, particularly at the local level in Phongsaly, Houaphanh, Bokeo and Saravane provinces.

During a meeting, held at the end of October in Luang Prabang, Deputy Minister of Health Snong Thongsna, with key national and international stakeholders, focused the discussions on improving the nutrition monitoring system and creating a high-quality nutrition database to support national policies. The minister also acknowledged the persistent challenge to effectively implement the annual nutrition budget within the health sector after reports of inflated success in the four key provinces have raised public concerns.

A report from the Ministry of Health in 2022 unveiled alarming statistics. Chronic undernutrition, or stunting, remains a significant problem, with approximately 33 percent of children under five affected. The document also highlighted that 21 percent of Lao children experience underweight conditions, and 9 percent face wasting. The report also underscored that undernutrition disproportionately impacts economically disadvantaged communities, minority ethnic groups, as well as rural and upland regions.

Despite the ongoing challenges, Snong emphasized the government’s success in the mandatory salt-iodization program to prevent iodine deficiency disorders. The strategy involves fortifying staple foods like rice, oil, noodles, soy sauce, and dairy products. This initiative is one of the key priorities outlined in the National Nutrition Strategy to 2025 and Plan of Action for 2016-2020.

In another bid to address the issue, Laos has garnered support from international organizations. The European Union (EU), UNICEF, and the World Health Organization (WHO) have joined forces to strengthen the National Nutrition Information System (SNNIS), a project organized in 2020 in collaboration with the governments of Ethiopia, Congo, Laos, Uganda and Zambia to enhance the countries’ capacity to regularly collect nutrition data and enable better-quality services.

Collaborative efforts and international support remains crucial in charting an accurate map of the current malnutrition rates across the country.

Gaw Capital Partners Joins Hands with Sinar Primera on Indonesia Data Center Development

SINGAPORE / JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach – 2 November 2023 – Real estate private equity firm Gaw Capital Partners today announced that the firm, has entered into strategic partnership with Sinar Primera, a leading Indonesia developer of new economy real estate, for developing a Data Center in Batam, Indonesia.

Kenneth Gaw, President and Managing Principal of Gaw Capital Partners (Left); Trisno Kemat, Board Member of Sinar Primera Group (Right)
Kenneth Gaw, President and Managing Principal of Gaw Capital Partners (Left); Trisno Kemat, Board Member of Sinar Primera Group (Right)

The alliance between Gaw Capital and Sinar Primera underscores a shared vision for capitalizing on emerging opportunities in the digital infrastructure sector. With Gaw Capital as the primary investor, Sinar Primera will acquire a minority shareholder stake in the property and take on the role of development manager for the project.

Phase 1 of the data center campus located in Nongsa Digital Park is scheduled to be operational by the fourth quarter of 2024. This new facility will be a single-storey building offering up to 6MW of critical IT load. By combining Gaw Capital’s investment acumen with Sinar Primera’s expertise in property development, the project aims to deliver a cutting-edge data center facility that meets the stringent requirements of businesses seeking reliable, scalable, and secure data storage and processing capabilities.

The data center campus in Nongsa Digital Park will enable the near-shoring strategy for data center operators based in Singapore and fortify the “digital bridge” that connects Singapore and Indonesia. In recent communications shared by Nongsa Digital Park, the Indonesian government’s National Council for Special Economic Zones Secretariat General re-affirmed data centers’ properties security status and complete data security, giving customers and data center operators the reassurance they need for data protection.

Kok Chye Ong, Managing Director and Head of IDC Platform, Asia (Ex-China) of Gaw Capital said, “We are thrilled to partner with Sinar Primera for this significant IDC project in Batam. Sinar Primera’s commitment to driving the new economy real estate industry forward aligns perfectly with our vision, and their extensive experience and industry knowledge complement Gaw Capital’s investment capabilities perfectly. In recent years, the Asia region stands as a prominent frontier in the data center industry, offering vast opportunities for growth and development. Gaw Capital’s data center platform, in line with this trend, has encompassed a strategic network of data centers situated in key Asian markets including China, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, and the recent addition of Malaysia.”

Hong Kah Jin, Head of Sinar Primera Group said, “We are excited to join forces with Gaw Capital Partners for this data center project. The collaboration allows us to combine our development expertise and local proficiency in the Indonesian market with Gaw Capital’s global real estate experience, paving the way for a cutting-edge data center facility that will meet the increasing demand for advanced digital infrastructure in Batam and surrounding region. Indonesia’s demand for digital and cloud services is growing exponentially and it is an exciting opportunity to invest in the data centre industry.”

During the past few years, Gaw Capital has strategically prioritized investments in the Data Center sector, recognizing its significance as a fundamental pillar of the rapidly expanding digital economy. The firm’s commitment to this sector is evident through the successful launch of two data center platforms in China and two in Pan-Asia. Notably, in September 2020, Gaw Capital closed fundraising for its inaugural IDC platform, securing approximately USD 1.3 billion in equity. The capital infusion has facilitated partnerships with leading IDC developers and operators in China, enabling the establishment of a portfolio of projects with overarching objective to construct environmentally sustainable, highly efficient, innovative, and recyclable data center clusters.

Hashtag: #GawCapitalPartners #SinarPrimera

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

About Gaw Capital Partners

Gaw Capital Partners is a uniquely positioned private equity fund management company focusing on real estate markets in Asia Pacific and other high barrier-to-entry markets globally.

Specializing in adding strategic value to under-utilized real estate through redesign and repositioning, Gaw Capital runs an integrated business model with its own in-house asset management operating platforms in commercial, hospitality, property development, logistics, IDC and Education. The firm’s investments span the entire spectrum of real estate sectors, including residential development, offices, retail malls, serviced apartments, hotels, logistics warehouses and IDC projects.

Gaw Capital has raised seven commingled funds targeting the APAC region since 2005. The firm also manages value-add/opportunistic funds in the US, a Pan-Asia hospitality fund, a European hospitality fund, a Growth Equity Fund and it also provides services for credit investments and separate account direct investments globally.

Gaw Capital has raised equity of US$22.1 billion since 2005 and commanded assets of US$35.2 billion under management as of Q2 2023.

About Sinar Primera

Sinar Primera Group is a property company that focuses on driving the new economy real estate industry forward by developing innovative, distinguished, sustainable, and leading products in terms of technology and service quality in this new economic era. Sinar Primera Group prioritizes and maximizes its growth opportunities by adopting technology and its extensive utilization as its foundation. Sinar Primera Group’s primary portfolio includes eco-city townships, logistics solutions, and cutting-edge data center. For more information about Sinar Primera, please visit their website at .

In-person Hong Kong International Optical Fair returns

Showcase focuses on technologies and market trends

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 2 November 2023 – The 31st Hong Kong Optical Fair, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and co-organised by the Hong Kong Optical Manufacturers Association (HKOMA), will return to the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) as a physical exhibition for the first time since 2019. The physical event will run from 8 to 10 November under the EXHIBITION+ integrated physical-online mode, when about 700 exhibitors from 11 countries and regions will present the latest eyewear designs and products.

Optical fair.png

Regional pavilions will include Mainland China, Taiwan, Italy, Japan, Korea, Visionaries of Style and the HKOMA pavilion. The fair also has multiple themed exhibition areas to facilitate buyers’ purchasing.

In response to the smart-glasses craze, this year’s Optical Fair will feature the Smart Eyewear zone. Hong Kong exhibitor Solos Technology Limited will display smart glasses that combine ChatGPT and wearable technology AirGo™ 3. Hong Kong firm 3DNA Technology Limited uses software with 360-degree facial scanning technology to help customers tailor-make suitable glasses. Other themed zones will present professional eyewear, eyewear accessories, frames, lenses, contact lenses, diagnostic instruments, optical instruments and more.

The Brand Name Gallery, a focal point of the fair, features about 200 brands from around the world, such as Mainland China’s A.Society, Hong Kong’s Absolute Vintage Eyewear, bTd, Taiwan’s CLASSICO, PARIM, reputable international brand such as agnès b and MINIMA from France; Anna Sui, Jill Stuart, New Balance, and VOY from the United States; Ted Baker and Vivienne Westwood from the United Kingdom; STEPPER from Germany; Japan’s Masaki Matsushima, Matsuda, MIZ Gold, TiDOU, Korea’s GENSDUMONDE, PEOPLE LUV ME and PLUME. The fair will feature eyewear shows, where professional models will showcase fashion eyewear trends from various places.

HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Sophia Chong, said: “The Hong Kong Optical Fair is back at the HKCEC. We are very pleased to welcome many new international brands from all over the world this year, including the fashion capitals of France, the United Kingdom, the United States and Italy, as well as Asian trendsetters from such places as Japan, Korea and Taiwan. The fair has incorporated many international elements while keeping up with the world’s trends, demonstrating the reputation of Hong Kong as the capital of international exhibitions.”

[Featured Exhibitors]
The Optical Fair will showcase a variety of eyewear with innovative technologies as well as new products and services. Some of the featured exhibitors include:

ChatGPT Smart Eyewear
[Solos Technology Limited – Booth: GH-B38]
First-time Hong Kong exhibitor Solos Technology Limited will feature the latest collection AirGo™ 3, smart glasses which combine ChatGPT with wearable tech.

Users can press and hold an action button on the smart glasses’ temple to ask ChatGPT a question. In response, they will see the reply through the lenses and also hear the answer read out. SolosTranslate is another ChatGPT-supported service, a live language translation with the power of voice. The nine supported languages include Cantonese, French, Japanese, Korean, Mandarin and Spanish. AirGo™ 3 with more than 100 patents, was officially released in SILMO in late September this year.

Renewable, recyclable, biodegradable materials
Wingram Industrial Company Limited – Booth: 1E-D22
Wingram Industrial Company Limited, dedicated to providing environmental solutions, specialises in frames made from BioAcetate S70 material – renewable, recyclable, biodegradable and biobased. The material has been tested with ISO 14855 standard for biodegradability, also certified by reputable third-party institutions such as Fraunhofer from Germany and Beta Analytic from the US. Performance advantages of BioAcetate S70 include protection against deforming, compatibility with all lenses and available for injection, making eyewear products sustainable, durable and aesthetic.

Environmental protection material sunglasses series
Wing Fung Optical International Ltd. – Booth: 1D-G02
BIG HORN, a Hong Kong creative eyewear brand, uses sustainable materials and won recognition with the CSE (Certified Sustainable Eyewear) Award presented at the MIDO show in Italy. These international award-winning (London Design Awards) sunglasses adopt medical eco-friendly materials (MEM) lenses and bio-degradable acetates, offer different colours for frames with detachable temples which can track fashion changes.

Fashion collaboration NFT launches collector’s edition
Kelfred Optical Ltd – Booth: GH-A08
The brand A. Society from Mainland China focuses on the balance between wearability and art, and launched unisex sunglasses with local artist Lousy, inspired by the iconic 「Kissface」 graffiti pattern. At the same time, they also collaborated with local singer-songwriter Gareth. T to produce joint products.

360-degree scanning of the face for a personalised and fully customizable glasses experience
3DNA Technology Limited – Booth: 1CON-046
Local company 3DNA Eyewear will showcase its self-developed interactive eyewear customisation platform that can offer innovative and engaging eyewear retail experience. The kiosk format for retailers features backlit shelving, pull out frame drawers, 200 piece swatch display, adjustable 3D scanner mirror, and three high-definition monitors. The machine will scan and measure customer facial features through computer software, then display a 3D avatar on the screen. Customers can tailor-make personal style derived from more than 2,000 designs, ranging from materials, patterns and colours to bespoke features such as narrow frames and printed names, and the simulated wearing effect will be displayed on the monitor immediately.

Global retailers and suppliers are connected through the 3DNA open platform, therefore, the final order will be sent directly to the production factories in mainland China, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

The Optical Fair brings together the latest products from well-known exhibitors and new technologies related to eyewear. There are also a series of product promotions, conferences, seminars and the award presentation ceremony for the Eyewear Design Competition during the fair; visitors can find out about the latest developments in the optical industry. Hong Kong Optical Fair event details: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkopticalfair/en/intelligence-hub

Fair Details (Physical)
Date: 8 to 10 November (Wednesday to Friday)
Time: (8 to 9 November) 9:30am – 6:30pm
(10 November) 9:30am – 5pm
Venue: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre
Admission: For trade visitors aged 18 or above only.
Onsite Registration Fee: HK$100 per person (Free for e-Badge registration and pre-registered buyers)

Click2Match (Smart business-matching platform)
Date: 1 to 17 November

Websites
Hong Kong Optical Fair: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkopticalfair/tc

The 21st Hong Kong International Optometric Symposium: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkopticalfair/tc/the-21st-hong-kong-international-optometric-symposium

Hashtag: #HKTDC

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

OnePlus Honors Top IPA Winners at Lucie Awards, Reinforcing Its Dedication to Mobile Photography Innovation

NEW YORK, US – Media OutReach – 2 November 2023 – Global tech brand OnePlus attended the Lucie Awards Gala at Carnegie Hall in New York on October 30, where it presented the coveted Lucie trophy to the top 2 winners of the International Photography Awards – Photographer of the Year and Discovery of the Year – as the awards official sponsor. The Lucies, known as “The Oscars of Photography” and its sister program, the International Photography Awards, celebrate their 20th Anniversary this year.

As part of IPA’s anniversary celebrations, the annual “Best of Show” Exhibition also opened during a fabulous weekend of exciting photography events hosted by IPA at Splashlight Studios in New York, and eight award-winning photographs from the OPA (OnePlus Photography Awards) shot on OnePlus phones were also exhibited at the event, reflecting OnePlus’s continuous exploration of mobile imaging technology.

OPA2023 Grand Winner.jpg

OnePlus Photography Awards 2023 Grand Winner
Fire Dragon Dancer at the Night
ZHUOWEN AO | OnePlus 11

“As one of the world’s most renowned photography events, the International Photography Awards continue to uncover and showcase the best in photography. Like the IPA, OnePlus lives by a “Never Settle” mantra and is committed to supporting outstanding photography by constantly pushing the boundaries of smartphone imaging technology,” said Emily Dai, Head of Global Brand and Marketing at OnePlus. “As we celebrate the respective 10th and 20th anniversaries of OnePlus and the IPA, we are honored to attend the 20th Anniversary Lucie Awards Ceremony as partners and award presenters. With three years of collaboration behind us, OnePlus and the IPA have built a solid partnership, and we are excited about exploring the future of professional photography on mobile phones together with the IPA.”

“The partnership between the International Photography Awards and OnePlus has given rise to a global photography sensation. This is a magnificent showcase of artistic flair, creativity, and talent hailing from every corner of the globe through the power of mobile phones,” said Hossein Farmani, IPA Founder and President. “We are thrilled to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the International Photography Awards with OnePlus. Our collaboration with OnePlus is a milestone we take immense pride in. Throughout the partnership, we have seen the true potential and power of mobile photography, and we look forward to continuing to work together with OnePlus to make great photography more accessible while encouraging everyone with a phone camera to become a photographer capable of capturing and sharing special moments with the world.”

OnePlus first announced its partnership with the IPA in 2021 with the aim of exploring the endless possibilities of mobile photography while honoring the achievements of master photographers and visual storytellers around the world. As a part of the three-year partnership, OnePlus was named the Official Smartphone of the IPA, reflecting its commitment to the photography industry through the continuous development of cutting-edge mobile technology that empowers users to unlock new possibilities in photography. Through the industry-leading imaging features on its mobile phones, OnePlus provides world-class imaging solutions and capabilities to assist both professional and amateur photographers in capturing their creative visions.

Additionally, OnePlus has collaborated with the IPA to organize the annual global mobile photography contest, the OnePlus Photography Awards (OPA). With support from the IPA, including official endorsement and professional juries, OnePlus hopes to encourage not just photography enthusiasts, but all mobile phone users to share their photography skills, experiences, and ideas through the OPA platform and unleash the full imaging capabilities of OnePlus mobile phones. To date, the OPA has been held for three successive years, receiving positive feedback and participation from photographers and photography enthusiasts worldwide. Each year, around 10,000 – 12,000 photos are submitted to the official website on average, resulting in a total of 38,578 entries from over 110 countries and regions worldwide as the competition gains significant influence globally and within the photography community.

For further details about OnePlus’s cooperation with the IPA, please visit the OPA 2023 official website.

Hashtag: #OnePlus

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

About IPA

The International Photography Awards™ conducts an annual competition for professional, amateur, and student photographers on a global scale, creating one of the most ambitious and comprehensive competitions in the photography world today.

For more information about IPA, please visit photoawards.com

About OnePlus

OnePlus is a global mobile technology brand that challenges conventional concepts of technology. Founded on the “Never Settle” mantra, OnePlus creates exquisitely designed devices with premium build quality and high-performance hardware. OnePlus thrives on cultivating strong bonds and growing alongside its community of users and fans.

For more information, please visit OnePlus.com or follow us on:
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Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation (QRDI) Council Elevates Qatar’s Open Innovation Status at SWITCH 2023

Announcing Qatar – Singapore Joint Innovation Challenges and Paving the Way for Global Collaboration

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 2 November 2023 The Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation (QRDI) Council, and Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG), announced the Qatar – Singapore Joint Innovation Challenge (QSJIC) as part of its participation at the Singapore Week of Innovation and Technology (SWITCH), held in Singapore from October 31 to November 2, 2023. This collaboration signifies a historic moment in the global advancement of innovation and technology. The event was attended by HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Singapore Saoud bin Jassim Al Jufairi.

Panel discussion (from left to right): Dr. Francis Yeoh, Senior Advisor, QRDI Council, David Luong, Senior Manager IT – Digital Systems & Projects, MATAR, Nada M. Al-Olaqi, RDI Program Director, QRDI Council, Dr. Soud K. Al-Thani, Director of Green Development and Environmental Sustainability Department at Qatar’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change | Opening remarks by Hind A. Zaki, International Partnerships Director, QRDI Council | Event attended by HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Singapore Saoud bin Jassim Al Jufairi
Panel discussion (from left to right): Dr. Francis Yeoh, Senior Advisor, QRDI Council, David Luong, Senior Manager IT – Digital Systems & Projects, MATAR, Nada M. Al-Olaqi, RDI Program Director, QRDI Council, Dr. Soud K. Al-Thani, Director of Green Development and Environmental Sustainability Department at Qatar’s Ministry of Environment and Climate Change | Opening remarks by Hind A. Zaki, International Partnerships Director, QRDI Council | Event attended by HE Ambassador of the State of Qatar to Singapore Saoud bin Jassim Al Jufairi

Three challenge statement owners, namely the Qatar Company for Airport Operation and Management (MATAR), Qatar Insurance Co. (QIC) Digital Venture Partners, and the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC) have put up seven problem statements, seeking new ideas and solutions from Singapore-based companies in areas such as energy, sustainability, and insurtech.

The SWITCH flagship conference, organised by EnterpriseSG, is the leading startup festival in Asia that serves as a nexus for deep tech, and champions the growth of Singapore’s startup and innovation ecosystem by catalysing conversations and collaboration among eminent members of the global business and tech community.

The QRDI Council was established in 2018 to drive research, development, and innovation (RDI) efforts on a national level in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Second National Development Strategy (2018-2022). QRDI Council has developed its ten-year strategy, QRDI 2030, which seeks to create a locally empowered, globally connected RDI ecosystem, mobilizing leadership across government, academia, and industry to transform Qatar’s social and economic future. QRDI Council members include prominent national and international figures from various government and academic entities and industry experts.

Ms. Nada Al-Olaqi, RDI Program Director of the QRDI Council, who was on the panel discussion held as part of the QRDI Council engagement activities at SWITCH 2023, expressed her enthusiasm about this collaboration and participation, saying, “Our participation in SWITCH is a remarkable milestone in the QRDI Council’s journey. We are excited to join hands with Enterprise Singapore in launching the Qatar-Singapore Joint Innovation Challenge, to provide valuable opportunities for Singapore companies to offer their innovations to Qatari entities. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to driving innovation and growth for Qatar while strengthening our global partnerships.”

In collaboration with EnterpriseSG and SWITCH, the QRDI Council participated in a market access panel as well as a networking session with businesses, providing a platform for innovative ideas to burgeon into implementable solutions. The initiative commenced with a riveting Panel Discussion centered around the Qatar-Singapore Joint Innovation Challenge (QSJIC). Dr. Francis Yeoh, Senior Advisor to QRDI Council, adeptly moderated the session, engaging with panelists that are challenge owners of QSJIC – MATAR, and MoECC.

Their insightful discourse set an enlightening prelude to the subsequent Networking Session, aptly titled ‘Bridging Innovations: Qatar – Singapore Joint Innovation Challenges’, where potential Singapore solution providers scored the opportunity to engage the Qatari entities directly to understand their innovation needs. These innovation needs beckoned Singapore’s vibrant startup community and innovative minds to propose viable solutions, nurturing a collaborative ethos between Qatar and Singapore while accentuating the boundless prospects of open innovation.

Mr G. Jayakrishnan, Executive Director for South Asia, Middle East & Africa at EnterpriseSG, shared, “The joint innovation call will further deepen innovation collaboration between Qatar and Singapore. Singapore companies have relevant expertise in areas of energy, environmental sustainability, and insurtech, and we are confident that they can be effective partners to the participating Qatar entities in developing solutions and products which contribute to Qatar’s sustainable development goals.”

Winners of the QSJIC get to embark on pilot projects with the three challenge statement owners and will receive solution development support of up to SGD150,000 each.

To learn more about the QSJIC, please visit this link.

About the Qatar Open Innovation program

The Qatar Open Innovation (QOI) program has been the primary platform for startups and innovators to showcase products and solutions that address the nation’s most pressing challenges. Covering the five national priorities of energy, health, resource sustainability, society, and digital technology, as outlined in the QRDI Strategy 2030, the QOI program identifies opportunities for innovation collaborations to drive economic prosperity.

More on the QRDI Council in Singapore

The QSJIC is among the first activities between the QRDI Council and EnterpriseSG since the two parties signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in June 2023. This strategic partnership aims to stimulate cross-border collaboration and open innovation, propelling Qatar towards becoming an innovation and knowledge-based economy. The MoU underscores the commitment to promote joint innovation programs, events, and initiatives that benefit both Qatari and Singaporean enterprises.

Key highlights of the QRDI Council and EnterpriseSG MoU include:

  • Creation of product innovation and commercialization opportunities through unique challenge statements and proof-of-concept opportunities.
  • Cross-promotion of Qatar and Singapore innovation programs, events, and opportunities.
  • Knowledge exchange and expertise sharing to enhance innovation ecosystems.
  • Facilitation of connections, expansion of innovation opportunities, and access to global markets.

The QRDI Council, entrusted with developing and implementing the QRDI 2030 Strategy, is pivotal in strengthening Qatar’s innovation ecosystem. EnterpriseSG, a statutory board under Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry, champions enterprise development and innovation in Singapore.

In August 2023, the QRDI Council has also entered into another MoU with the Public Utilities Board (PUB) in Singapore. This was signed when Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdulrahman Bin Jassim Al Thani, visited the city state at the invitation of the Prime Minister of Singapore, Mr. Lee Hsien Loong. This MoU focuses on initiatives to digitize small and medium-sized companies and incubation programs, further cementing the QRDI Council’s commitment to nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship.

The partnership with SWITCH, the groundbreaking collaborations established through the MoUs, and the upcoming QSJIC collectively underscore the QRDI Council’s dedication to fostering a culture of innovation and driving economic growth through technology and knowledge.

Appendix A: QSJIC Challenge Details

Airport Operations: MATAR (Qatar Company for Airport Operation and Management)
Playing a critical role in managing and operating Hamad International Airport (DOH) since the facility’s inception in 2014, MATAR continues to elevate the aviation industry with its renowned forward-thinking plans and investments – winning multiple awards and accolades.

The challenges from MATAR are as follows:

Challenge no. 1: ‘Recovery and Recycling of Sludge from Wastewater Treatment’
The challenge is to find innovative and economically viable solutions for the recycling and recovery of sludge produced by wastewater treatment plants, addressing issues such as environmental impact, resource recovery, and cost-effectiveness in alignment with MATAR’s commitment to sustainable sludge management.

Challenge no. 2: ‘Optimised Allocation of High Value and Limited Asset Resources’
The challenge is to harness deep reinforcement learning to revolutionize resource allocation strategies in transportation and logistics, aiming for a 10% increase in efficiency by optimizing high-value resources like planes, stands, trucks, and ships across various critical sectors, such as airports, seaports, and logistics centers, ultimately offering a cost-effective alternative to infrastructure expansion while considering multifaceted factors like customer experience and commercial considerations.

Challenge no.3: ‘Floating Solar Panels’
The challenge is to source for novel floating solar solutions that is durable against environmental factors, have an adaptive and resilient designs that can optimise the performance and stability in different conditions, and is able to achieve high level of efficiency.

Insurance: QIC (Qatar Insurance Co.)
Established in 1964, QIC is Qatar’s pioneering insurance company. With a leading presence in Qatar and a strong foothold in the GCC and MENA regions, it ranks among the largest insurers in the MENA area. QIC is publicly listed on the Qatar Stock Exchange with a market capitalization exceeding QAR 7 billion. Additionally, it is the first digital insurance company in Qatar and was honored as the top online insurance company in the Middle East at the 2022 Global Banking & Finance Review Awards.

The challenges from QIC Digital Venture Partners, a part of QIC Group, are as follows:

Challenge no. 1: ‘Any ESG Project that could impact positively or get impacted by Insurance Companies’
The challenge is to identify ESG issues that insurance can address as a value lever within various insurance sectors, with a focus on the MENA region or global applicability through reinsurance/Lloyds. Successful solutions should have a validated MVP in collaboration with a regional industry partner, preferably an insurer.

Challenge no. 2: ‘(Generative) AI in the Insurance Value Chain’
The challenge is to innovate and implement AI solutions that transform various aspects of the insurance industry, from customer interactions to value creation, across retail, commercial, and reinsurance sectors. Successful partners should possess a validated insurance use case with another insurer, backed by a proven MVP within the insurance value chain in collaboration with a regional insurer.

Environmental Sustainability: The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC)
The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change (MoECC) is a service ministry that set up a number of goals, foremost of which are protecting the environment, preserving natural resources, and reducing emissions that contribute to climate change.

The challenges from the MoECC are as follows:

Challenge no.1: ‘Carbon footprint for Aluminum Production’
The challenge is to create a tool for the Environmental Assessment Department that can quickly and accurately assess the environmental impact of new projects. The tool should include models for air, emissions, seawater, land data, and historical information. It should help decision making on new projects and verify environmental impact studies. The goal is to save time and improve accuracy.

Challenge no.2: ‘Environment Impact Assessment’
The challenge is to create a tool for the Environmental Assessment Department to streamline the assessment of environmental impact studies for new projects, addressing the current issue of time-consuming reviews. The tool should incorporate air, seawater, and land models historical data and provide decision-making support for new projects. It must meet environmental standards, with a focus on Qatar’s region.
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About QRDI Council

Qatar Research, Development, and Innovation (QRDI) Council was established in 2018 to drive research, development, and innovation (RDI) efforts on a national level in line with the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the Second National Development Strategy (2018-2022). QRDI Council has developed a ten-year strategy, QRDI 2030, which seeks to create a locally empowered, globally connected RDI ecosystem, mobilizing leadership across government, academia, and industry to transform Qatar’s social and economic future. QRDI Council members include prominent national and international figures from various government and academic entities and industry experts.

For media-related inquiries, don’t hesitate to get in touch with QRDI at

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