31.2 C
Vientiane
Sunday, July 20, 2025
spot_img
Home Blog Page 1588

ONYX Hospitality Group Announces Expansion to the Shama Portfolio: Shama Rayong: The first Shama in Thailand outside of Bangkok, Capitalising on the Demand for Serviced Apartments in Key International Business Areas


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 April 2024 – ONYX Hospitality Group, the leading hospitality management company, is delighted to announce the expansion of its renowned Shama brand with the launch of Shama Rayong, capitalising on the demand for serviced apartments.

The signing ceremony took place on 1st April 2024 at Amari Bangkok, with the new property expected to welcome its first guests from Q1 2026. Shama Rayong marks a significant milestone for the brand and expanding its footprint in Thailand. The company recognises the increasing demand for serviced apartments, particularly in the post-pandemic era, and is confident that this new addition will be a welcome hub catering primarily to meet the needs of both long-stay expatriates working in the nearby industrial estates, business parks and those visiting for short-stay business purposes. The new addition is a continuation of the Shama brand’s success in Thailand. There are currently 6 Shama properties in Thailand, whilst the brand also operates in Hong Kong, mainland China and Malaysia.

Rayong is a city on the east coast of the Gulf of Thailand and the capital of Rayong province. Southeast of Bangkok, it is an important industrial area in Thailand. Rayong emerges as a pivotal player in Thailand’s transformative Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC), joining forces with other Thai provinces, Chonburi and Chachoengsao, to spearhead the nation’s manufacturing, research, and service sectors. Situated at the heart of this ambitious initiative, Rayong is poised to become a bustling hub, intricately linked with its ASEAN counterparts and global markets.

Located on a convenient route connecting Rayong City Center and the Map Ta Phut Industrial Estate, Shama Rayong is within close proximity to major industrial estates and business parks like WHA Rayong 36 and CPGC, allowing for a seamless commute within a 15-20 minute drive. Ideal for expatriates with school-aged children, international schools such as St. Andrews International School, Green Valley, and Singapore International School, Rayong are all within a 20-minute drive. A tranquil area, Shama Rayong’s location offers a peaceful atmosphere, a welcome respite after a busy day. When it comes to exploring during downtime, the vibrant Rayong City Center is just a 30-minute drive away. The property will feature over 150 room keys encompassing Studio, One-Bedroom and Two-Bedroom apartments, a restaurant, swimming pool, gym and meeting rooms, alongside all the welcoming signature touches guests have come to expect from the Shama brand.

Shama, a serviced apartment brand, provides its residents with a combination of comfort, style, and luxury. Each Shama apartment has been thoughtfully designed to cater to the discerning tastes of executives and travellers who seek more than just contemporary lodging, instead creating a cosy, homely haven. Shama is more than just a residence; it’s a hub for building relationships with the local community and fostering an environment that promotes socialising and sharing among residents and community members, alike. Whether a brief visit or settling in for an extended stay, everyone is embraced as part of the Shama family.

Shama Social Club is an essential component of Shama’s portfolio proposition and a key differentiator, inspiring community spirit and connecting guests to each of Shama’s distinct locations. The Shama Social Club enhances guest experiences by connecting them to each unique neighbourhood. It is built on Shama’s three main pillars: Contemporary living, featuring bespoke interior design that is both practical and stylish; Without boundaries, offering activities and programs to acclimate residents to the locale; and Thoughtful gestures, including considerate touches that help residents connect to the environment and feel at home from the first day of their stay.

Commenting on launch of Shama Rayong, CEO of ONYX Hospitality Group, Mr. Yuthachai Charanachitta stated,

“We are thrilled to unveil Shama Rayong, marking a pivotal moment for the Shama brand, in response to the growing demand for serviced apartments, particularly in the business travel segment. Shama Rayong will cater to a diverse clientele, offering a seamless blend of comfort, convenience, and local immersion for both business travellers and expatriate families. We are confident that Shama Rayong will become a vibrant hub for residents and a testament to the exceptional experiences the Shama brand consistently delivers.

As part of our broader vision, ONYX Hospitality Group aims to solidify its position as ‘The Best Medium-sized Hospitality Management Company in Southeast Asia,’ reflecting our commitment to excellence and continuously elevating the standards of hospitality in the region. As Thailand’s leading company specialising in the management of hotels, resorts, serviced apartments, and luxury residences, featuring renowned brands such as Amari, OZO, Shama, and Oriental Residence, we have an exceptional track record in managing hotels, resorts, and serviced apartments across diverse countries in the Asia Pacific region. Shama Rayong is another key development showcasing our dedication to expansion in Southeast Asia, whilst simultaneously ensuring we provide exceptional guest experiences and foster sustainable practices.”

Commenting on the launch of Shama Rayong, Owner of Dream D Co. Ltd, Mr. Damrong Pitaksit stated,

“We are pleased to be working with the team at ONYX Hospitality Group in developing a new upscale serviced apartment in Rayong with a strong hospitality brand like Shama. Our development expertise combined with ONYX Hospitality Group’s international experience and strong network in the hospitality sector with the Shama brand will produce a unique product and experiences in Rayong. We have witnessed and been impressed with the focused expansion of ONYX Hospitality Group across Thailand and the Southeast Asian region, and look forward to working with them. I believe this is the beginning of a strong and long-lasting business partnership with ONYX Hospitality Group in the future”.

With a profound commitment to ‘A Tailored Approach to Hospitality,’ ONYX Hospitality Group’s distinctive vision of being ‘the best medium-sized hospitality management company in Southeast Asia’ sets it apart from competitors. This ethos permeates every facet of ONYX Hospitality Group’s operations, ensuring guests receive unmatched service and experiences that surpass expectations.

ONYX Hospitality Group is committed to expanding the Shama brand whilst continuously evolving and striving to provide guests with the exceptional service and amenities that they have come to expect. ONYX Hospitality Group currently operates 16 Shama properties in the prominent locations of Hong Kong, Bangkok, Hangzhou, Changchun, and Daqing, with another 5 properties under construction. Additional upcoming openings include:
– Shama Medini – Malaysia
– Shama Suasana Johor Bahru – Malaysia
– Shama Hub Metro South – Hong Kong
– Shama Hub Qiantang Hangzhou – China
– Shama Rayong – Thailand

For more information on ONYX Hospitality Group, visit www.onyx-hospitality.com.

Hashtag: #ONYXHospitalityGroup

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

Laos Faces Uphill Battle Against Wildlife Hunting, Expert Urges Action

Wildlife on display at a local market in Laos (WCS)
Wildlife on display at a rural market in Laos (WCS).

Wildlife hunting remains a significant challenge in Laos, despite ongoing efforts by the Lao government and non-governmental organizations (NGOs).

According to a wildlife expert, who goes by the pseudonym “Ben” to protect his identity due to his involvement in national policy making, a significant factor driving illegal hunting is the demand for exotic dishes featuring wildlife. Ben noted that this demand primarily stems from tourists from neighboring Vietnam and China.

Tourism-driven Demand Fuels Illegal Hunting

The expert highlighted the role of organized tour groups in promoting the consumption of wildlife meat among tourists. These tour groups offer luxury banquets featuring exotic products, including pangolin and bear paws, contributing to the perpetuation of illegal hunting practices, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to address this concerning trend.

Numerous restaurants across Laos, often with ties to poachers and middlemen, capitalize on tourists’ quest for unique culinary experiences by offering dishes made from wildlife. This practice not only sustains but also exacerbates the demand for wildlife products, perpetuating illegal hunting in the country.

Despite this being a widespread issue, Laos has established laws aimed at combating these activities. According to the Penal Code, initial offenders responsible for minimal damage can undergo “re-education” rather than facing immediate penalties. However, assessing the value of the animal in question presents a significant challenge, often relying on fluctuating market prices.

For repeat offenders or individuals engaged in organized hunting endeavors, stricter repercussions are enforced. These penalties may include fines of up to LAK 10 million (equivalent to approximately USD 472.22) and imprisonment for a maximum duration of five years.

Enforcement Challenges in Rural Areas

Over 300 Animals Confiscated in Wildlife Trafficking Crackdown in Dak Cheung District
Over 300 Animals Confiscated in Wildlife Trafficking Crackdown in Dak Cheung District (photo: KPL)

Enforcement of wildlife protection laws, however, poses significant challenges, particularly in rural areas where illegal hunting has long been a cultural norm. 

“In rural areas, hunting has never been seen as a crime,” Ben said. He also highlighted the difficulties faced by authorities in enforcing laws against individuals who hunt for food or to sustain their livelihoods. 

Limited resources and the inability of offenders to pay fines further complicate enforcement efforts, creating a complex landscape for conservationists and law enforcement agencies alike.

Uncertainty Surrounding Conservation Rules

The Wildlife Conservation Society, a United-States nonprofit organization with conservation programs in Laos, highlighted the strict prohibition against hunting protected species in Laos. However, the uncertainty surrounding hunting seasons and areas complicates efforts to educate the public, ultimately resulting in the unintended hunting of animals meant for conservation. 

Central to the challenge of wildlife conservation in Laos is the classification of animals into three distinct groups: protected species, managed species, and those that can be hunted in community areas. 

Protected species, including majestic animals like elephants, tigers, and bears, are strictly off-limits for hunting. Managed species, such as pigs and deer, are subject to regulation, allowing for their controlled harvest by rural villages for subsistence purposes. However, the complexity arises from the lack of clarity regarding the specific seasons and areas where hunting is permitted, leading to inadvertent violations of conservation rules.

International Cooperation and Online Trade

The rise of online wildlife trade also presents an additional challenge for authorities, as it allows for the anonymous sale of protected species on social media platforms.

“Every day, protected species like pangolins, bear cubs, cats, monkeys, and turtles are being sold on Facebook,” Ben observed, pointing to the need for enhanced monitoring and enforcement measures to curb this illicit trade.

International organizations, such as the ASEAN Wildlife Enforcement Network, have also joined the fight against the illegal wildlife trade in Laos. While some progress has been made, major wildlife traffickers, known as kingpins, remain elusive. 

“Members of the networks have been arrested in Thailand and Vietnam, but none of the kingpins or the major wildlife terminals have ever been arrested in Laos,” the expert revealed, highlighting the need for greater international cooperation to apprehend these elusive criminals.

Furthermore, Laos serves as a convenient gateway for trafficking wildlife from Africa to consumer markets in countries like Vietnam and China. While these products are not used in Laos, the country’s geographical location makes it vulnerable to smuggling activities. This international dimension adds complexity to conservation efforts, as it requires strong international cooperation to combat wildlife trafficking effectively.

Ben further noted the difficulties of enforcing wildlife protection laws in Laos, citing the country’s extensive porous borders and the high demand for wildlife products in neighboring nations. Notably, Laos shares its borders with five countries, two of which are significant consumers of wildlife products. This geographical proximity poses challenges in regulating trade. Ben highlighted the necessity of international cooperation to effectively investigate smuggling networks that span across borders and involve individuals residing in other countries.

Local Efforts to Combat Threats to Wildlife

Black Bear Cubs Rescued, Handed Over for Conservation
Police and Free the Bear officials pose with the rescued black bear cubs (photo: Vientiane Capital Public Security)

The expert emphasized the importance of community involvement alongside enforcement and education efforts. He suggested that empowering local communities to responsibly manage and derive benefits from wildlife resources could play a pivotal role in mitigating illegal hunting and trade.

Despite ongoing challenges, authorities are actively engaged in efforts to combat threats to wildlife, as demonstrated by the recent rescue of 16 bear cubs by Free the Bear in the Sikhottabong district of Vientiane Capital on 17 March. Although the origins of these bears remain unknown, reports indicate that they are currently receiving medical care at a center in Luang Prabang and are slated for eventual release into the wild.

Splash into the Fun: Unforgettable Songkran Experiences Await at OZO Hotels, Thailand


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 April 2024 – OZO Hotels invites guests to splash into the jubilant spirit of Songkran, immersing themselves in Thailand’s beloved cultural extravaganza brimming with exhilarating water-filled festivities. Songkran, also referred to as the Thai New Year, stands as one of Thailand’s most revered festivals, symbolising fresh beginnings and community bonds. Traditionally observed from 13th – 15th April, it heralds the commencement of the Thai lunar calendar.

At the heart of Songkran festivities lies the exuberant water fights, where locals and visitors joyously drench each other as a form of cleansing and renewal. The spirit of the festival permeates across the nation, fostering unity and merriment. Originally centred around the gentle sprinkling of water infused with blessings for prosperity, Songkran’s origins were more serene. Over time, this tradition has metamorphosed into the spirited water battles witnessed today, yet the essence of communal joy and spiritual rejuvenation remains unchanged, whilst also being a great way to cool down and beat the heat of the balmy Thai temperatures.

OZO is the fun and playful hotel brand, with properties in popular spots in Thailand: Pattaya, Phuket and Koh Samui. To arrive at OZO is to unpack good vibes and enjoy the excitement of the destination, meaning there’s nowhere better to embark on an unforgettable Songkran experience. From exhilarating water fights with all the staff and guests getting involved, to nights filled with endless festivities and dining experiences, Songkran is the ultimate memory-making adventure. Local temples also offer blessings for those looking to experience more of the serenity side of the tradition.

After a long day of merriment, guests can step inside their cosy, welcoming room to discover functional design, practical layouts, space to reunite and play, and sleep-inducing beds to ensure a deep slumber. Guests will wake revitalised for the next day, wherever that may take them.

OZO North Pattaya:

OZO North Pattaya offers modern and stylish accommodation nestled in the heart of Pattaya, with easy access to the beach, shopping, dining, and entertainment venues. With comfortable rooms, vibrant dining options, and thoughtful amenities, OZO Pattaya ensures a memorable stay for every guest. Ensuring the water fun is present throughout Songkran and beyond, OZO Pattaya features a large pool and thrilling slide. In celebrations of Songkran, OZO North Pattaya is hosting a “Songkran Grill & Chill Buffet” evening on 13th and 14th April, featuring a fun and flavoursome of buffet with mouth-watering delights including fresh seafood. The buffet starts from £16 per person. Prices in April 2024 start from £45 per room, per night on a bed and breakfast basis, based on two sharing a room. Book online and stay before 30th September 2024 to receive a 15% discount on food and non-alcoholic beverages. To book and for more information visit: www.ozohotels.com/pattaya

OZO Phuket:

Situated just a 5-minute walk from Kata Beach, OZO Phuket offers 255 guest rooms and suites designed for ultimate comfort and restful nights. The resort features two outdoor pools, including a dedicated children’s pool, and an EAT restaurant serving delicious cuisine. Its prime location near Kata Beach and the vibrant night market provides easy access to nearby attractions, making it an ideal choice for families seeking a beachfront retreat with ample amenities. Prices in April 2024 start from £80 per room, per night on a bed and breakfast basis, based on two sharing a room. To book and for more information visit: www.ozohotels.com/phuket

OZO Chaweng Samui:

Located along Chaweng Beach Road, the beachfront resort offers proximity to both the vibrant energy of the town and the tranquillity of the beach. Just a 15-minute drive from Samui International Airport and a leisurely stroll to central Chaweng, guests find themselves perfectly situated for exploration. With a fun outdoor pool catering to both adults and kids, a fitness centre, and two restaurants, the resort provides an ideal balance of convenience and relaxation. Prices in April 2024 start from £58 per room, per night on a bed and breakfast basis, based on two sharing a room. Book online and stay before 31st December 2024 to receive a 10% discount. To book and for more information visit: www.ozohotels.com/chaweng-samui

For more information about OZO, please visit https://www.ozohotels.com

For more information about ONYX Hospitality Group, please visit http://www.onyx-hospitality.com/

Hashtag: #ONYXHospitalityGroup

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

Deep tech start-up SECTA5 doubles the speed of cybersecurity threat analysis and response


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 April 2024 – Singapore deep tech start-up SECTA5 has launched its flagship product–Cartographer–a revolutionary platform powered by Artificial Intelligence aimed at helping companies speed up their cybersecurity threat analysis, prioritisation and subsequent response in a single platform.

Compared to conventional manual methods of cyber risk management – also known as cyber risk triage – where teams must manually trawl through tens of thousands of disclosed vulnerabilities and assess them individually, ranking them in importance for their companies to address, Cartographer can do it at twice the speed with greater precision.

This solution will greatly help companies which are increasingly at risk of cyber attacks to prioritise their cyber security efforts and resources – saving time and money while lowering risk to business operations and information systems.

Last year, there was almost a four-fold surge of disclosed vulnerabilities – weak points where a company’s information security system can be breached or compromised – 26,447 reports when compared to 2013.

As reported by American enterprise cyber risk & security platform Qualys, this huge spike in software vulnerabilities shows that the conventional gold-standard practice is becoming increasingly ineffective against the backdrop of growing workloads and a shortage of seasoned security professionals.

To tackle these issues, SECTA5 was founded by two alumni from the Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore), and their partners, who possess strong expertise in ethical hacking such as red teaming and attack simulations against large organisations.

With support from the venture building team from NTUitive, the innovation and enterprise company of NTU Singapore, SECTA5 successfully automated the cyber risk analysis and prioritisation processes with the help of Machine Learning and Generative AI and has successfully tested it in real-life trials.

Clients that trialled Cartographer were able to speed up their cyber risk triage while being able to have continuous threat and exposure management (CTEM), which blends business context, threat intelligence, automation, and prioritisation into a cohesive system.

Mr Sky Seah, Co-founder of SECTA5, said their flagship product gives organisations a powerful and easy tool to navigate the complexities of modern cybersecurity challenges, especially for Chief Information Officers and Chief Information Security Officers who have to make key decisions in a fast-paced environment.

“Cartographer enables organisations to swiftly identify the most critical cyber risks and prioritize their remediation efforts accordingly. In the analogy of a ship, it is no longer just about patching whatever leaks that spring up in the hull, but to systemically prioritise the patching of major leaks and reinforcement of areas where it will have the largest risk of leaks before the leak happens,” explained Mr Seah.

“It is like proactively reinforcing the defences of a castle. By centralising vulnerability management processes around Cartographer, businesses can enhance their cybersecurity defences autonomously, strengthen their overall infrastructure and prepare countermeasures before an enemy breach.”

Cartographer VM Features

  • Curation of vulnerability pipelines – Choose data that is relevant for the organisation, ingest outputs from industry-leading vulnerability scanners, penetration test reports, agent-based sensors, and more
  • Auto-triage with context – Rationalise vulnerability data in consideration of what is critical for specific businesses, including environment and regulatory obligations
  • Enrichment with threat intelligence – Incorporate industry-leading threat intelligence feeds when triaging each vulnerability to validate if there is indeed actual impact to an organisation
  • Prioritisation at scale – Automate time-consuming triage across multiple platforms so that security professionals can prioritise higher-value strategic work

Enterprises Must Prioritise To Optimise Limited Resources

According to Gartner®:

“”Continuous threat exposure management is a pragmatic and effective systemic approach to continuously refine priorities and walk the tightrope between two modern security realities. Organisations can’t fix everything, nor can they be completely sure what vulnerability remediation they can safely postpone.””*

“At the core of Cartographer’s development was a simple question: How can we make exposure and risk-based vulnerability management more effective and inherently smarter? The answer is our Software-as-a-Service platform that not only automates triage but does so with a precise understanding of each organisation’s environment, unique risk profile and real-life threat intelligence. We aim to help IT teams zoom in on the cyber risks that really matter, and mitigate them faster and more effectively,” added Mr Seah.

—–

* Gartner Article, How to Manage Cybersecurity Threats, Not Episodes, By Kasey Panetta, August 21, 2023. GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved.

Hashtag: #business #technology #cybersecurity


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

ABOUT SECTA5

SECTA5 is a cybersecurity company built by former cyber attackers for today’s cyber defenders. Our mission is to empower organisations by predicting and neutralising security breaches with our cutting-edge, autonomous security orchestration platform.

Founded by a group of former attackers and defenders, SECTA5 was founded to harness the collective experience of simulating and defending against attacks end-to-end, and present a unique solution to secure organisations.

For more information, please visit the website at .

Malaysian small businesses post best growth results since pandemic

  • Confidence in economy high
  • Cost of doing business remains a key concern
  • Strong returns tied to technology spending

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 April 2024 – Sixty-six per cent of Malaysian small businesses grew in 2023 with 2024 expected to be an even better year, a new survey by CPA Australia shows.

Malaysia Small Business Survey Infographic

The annual Asia-Pacific Small Business Survey found seventy-eight per cent expect to grow in 2024, the country’s best result since 2012 and higher than the survey average of 70 per cent.

The upbeat sentiment is pegged to the confidence in the economy with nearly three quarters expecting it to grow this year, above the survey average of 65 per cent.

Fifty-nine per cent sought external funding for business growth in 2023 reflecting a shift from business survival in 2022.

The increasing cost of doing business, however, remains a key concern with materials, utility costs, staff costs and rent being the costs that impacted businesses the most last year. Close to 50 per cent said increasing cost negatively impacted their business.

“Young entrepreneurs are driving the momentum on innovation and technology uptake. The survey results have shown over many years that small business with younger entrepreneurs are more likely to be growing, innovating, using emerging technologies and exporting,” said Surin Segar, President of CPA Australia Malaysia Division.

Strong returns from online sales through a wider choice of new digital and payment technologies and greater social media presence are driving technology spending. Mobile apps remain the most popular technology for Malaysian small businesses to invest in 2023, with almost 50 per cent reporting their technology investment improved profitability.

Thirty-two per cent said they will introduce a new product, process or service to Malaysia or the world in 2024. This will support long-term growth and improved competitiveness of Malaysia’s small businesses.

“With many small businesses being risk averse, it is imperative for policymakers to support potentially inexperienced young people owning or in key positions to seek business advice.”

Fearing cyber risks from the increased use of technology, 52 per cent of small businesses owners reviewed their cybersecurity in the last six months compared to 48 per cent in 2022.

“It is encouraging to see the increase in cyber risk awareness as the government continues to strengthen regulatory frameworks with the new Cyber Security Bill tabled in Parliament. This is aligned with the Communications and Digital Ministry’s call for collective action and global coordination to counter cyber threats,” said Surin.

ESG focus for small businesses centred on staff health and safety, supply chain sustainability, diversity and inclusion policies.

“We hope to see increased investment in advanced ESG practices such as renewable energy and the adoption of green and sustainable finance opportunities.”

Access the Malaysia summary and infographic

Hashtag: #cpaaustralia #smallbusiness #businessowners #Malasyianbusinesses





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

About CPA Australia

CPA Australia is one of the largest professional accounting bodies in the world, with more than 173,000 members in over 100 countries and regions, including more than 10,500 members in Malaysia. CPA Australia has been operating in Malaysia since 1956 and opened our Malaysian office in 1994. Our core services include education, training, technical support and advocacy. CPA Australia provides thought leadership on local, national and international issues affecting the accounting profession and public interest. We engage with governments, regulators and industries to advocate policies that stimulate sustainable economic growth and have positive business and public outcomes. Find out more at

Taiwan’s Strongest Earthquake in Nearly 25 Years Damages Buildings, Causes Small Tsunami

A partially collapsed building in Hualien city. (Photo: BBC)

TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP) — Taiwan’s strongest earthquake in a quarter century has killed at least four people.

Influential Brands Celebrates Pioneers in Brand Leadership, Workplace Excellence, And Visionary Leadership at The Prestigious Awards Gala in Singapore And Thailand


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 April 2024 – Following the success of the CEO Summit and Award Ceremony held at the Fullerton Hotel in Singapore on the 15th of March, Influential Brands® extended its reach to Thailand, hosting another grand event at the Chatrium Grand Bangkok Hotel on the 1st of April, 2024. The events served as a platform to celebrate and acknowledge the innovative leaders and businesses in ASIA with the participation of more than 300 influential personalities, including top executives and entrepreneurs.

Guest of Honour Mr. Seah Kian Peng, Speaker of Parliament with Top CEOs, Top Employers, Top and Outstanding Brands at the CEO Summit & Award Ceremony at the Fullerton Hotel
Guest of Honour Mr. Seah Kian Peng, Speaker of Parliament with Top CEOs, Top Employers, Top and Outstanding Brands at the CEO Summit & Award Ceremony at the Fullerton Hotel

As a regional company, Influential Brands celebrated Asia’s Best in Class in Singapore and Thailand with a presence of more than 350 C-suite executives from leading companies from across the region such as Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and China.

At the CEO Summit in Singapore, Mr. Seah Kian Peng, Speaker of Parliament, and Guest of Honour at the event, emphasised the need for adaptability in the face of evolving consumer needs and technological advancements. He stated, “It is incumbent upon strong leadership to not only acknowledge these challenges but also to embrace the winds of change.” He urged business leaders to contribute to the emerging green economy, emphasizing that ‘innovation becomes paramount.’ Moreover, he emphasized the government’s role in supporting businesses, facilitating innovation, and enhancing competitiveness to address sustainability challenges effectively. He stated, “The Government remains committed to supporting businesses, facilitating innovation, optimizing resources, and enhancing competitiveness.”

Some of the esteemed Awardees recognised in Singapore include prominent Brands, such as: FairPrice Group and ZALORA.

Ms. Elaine Heng, Deputy Group CEO and CEO Retail Business at FairPrice Group, said: “We are humbled to receive Influential Brands’ Top Brand 2023 awards for Supermarket, Online Grocery Retailer, and Supermarket Private Label. Our mission of moderating the cost of living for all in Singapore is always at the top of our minds, and we are deeply committed to serving our customers with heart across all our touchpoints, everyday.

Mr. Achint Setia, Chief Revenue and Marketing Officer at ZALORA Group, said: “We are honoured to be awarded Singapore’s Top 2023 E-Commerce Fashion Retailer by Influential Brands. This award is a testament to our commitment to creating WOW-worthy experiences for our local fashion communities.”

Awardees at The Chatrium Grand Bangkok Hotel
Awardees at The Chatrium Grand Bangkok Hotel

At the grand event held at the Chatrium Grand Bangkok Hotel, Influential Brands and its Thailand’s partner, Neo Target, proudly awarded the following esteemed individuals and organisations for their outstanding contributions to their respective industries. Some prominent awardees include Tops, Lotus’s, Major Cineplex, Thai Life Insurance, Muang Thai Life Assurance, among other distinguished awardees.

TOP EMPLOYERS HONOURED FOR TRANSFORMING THE WORK ENVIRONMENT TO MEET CHANGING EMPLOYEE NEEDS IN SINGAPORE

Backed by a robust anonymous employee survey with the participation of more than 15,000 employees, 10 companies are crowned “Asia’s Top Employers”. These organisations have not only exceeded industry standards but have also demonstrated a profound commitment to fostering meaningful employee engagement, establishing a strong alignment between employee and company culture, and implementing pertinent HR practices in the digital age.

The Awardees are: Aspial Corporation (Lifestyle Retail), CGS International Securities Singapore (Financial Services), Declarators (Customs Permit Declaration & Courier Services), Income Insurance (Insurance), Klook (Travel and Experiences), LUXASIA (Luxury Beauty Retail & Distribution), NTUC LearningHub (Continuing Education & Training Institute), PlayFACTO School (Premium Student Care), Razer (Technology) and SATS (Cargo, Ground Handling and Food Solutions Provider) are lauded by their own employees through anonymous surveys as excellent employers.

Ms. Carol Fong, Group Chief Executive Officer at CGS International Securities, said: “This accolade is testament to our unwavering commitment to nurturing a positive and inclusive work environment, where every team member feels valued and empowered. Our people are the heart of our business. Therefore, it is important that every employee goes through a journey of growth and excellence with us and that we foster a workplace where talent is nurtured. We thank all of our employees for standing by our PACES (People-oriented, Accountability, Collaboration, Excellence, and Sustainability) core values, as we work towards our vision of becoming a leading and world-class investment bank in Asia.

Ms. Angie Ng, Chief People Officer at Income Insurance Limited Singapore, said: “We are elated to have received this recognition for the first time. This accolade serves as a testament to our unwavering commitment to creating a ‘people-first’ culture within our organisation. With this recognition, it reinforces our belief that prioritising our people and their development is the right path to follow. Income Insurance is committed to this ongoing journey towards excellence, creating a workplace that our people can thrive.”

Ms. April Wan, Global Head of Human Resources at Razer Inc. says: “We are proud and honored to win the Top Influential Brand’s ASIA’S TOP EMPLOYER Award. Being a great place to work and a place to do great work is not just a vision but a necessity to ensure Razer’s continuous success as the world’s leading lifestyle brand for gamers. We will remain steadfast in our endeavor to push the boundaries of what it means to be an employer of choice in the dynamic and competitive tech landscape, and groom the next generation of phenomenal talents in Asia that will elevate Razer to greater heights.”

Mr. Kean Ng, CEO at Aspial Lifestyle Ltd. says: “We are honoured to accept the Top Employer Brand award. This accolade reaffirms the passion and collaborative spirit of all Aspialites and our aspirations for excellence. Congratulations to all Aspialites! Together, let’s forge the path to a brighter future, driven by innovation and unity.”

Ms. Cary S., Vice President People & Culture at Klook, says: “We are honored to be awarded Asia’s Top Employer from Influential Brands. Our globally diverse team of 1,500 (and growing) work collaboratively towards our mission of “bringing the world closer together through experiences” – thank you to our Klookers for living out our PATH core beliefs as ONE team, and strengthening our position as the leading travel and experiences platform!

Top Employers, Top Brands and Outstanding Brands are conferred with the title of the Best in Class
Top Employers, Top Brands and Outstanding Brands are conferred with the title of the Best in Class

BRAND LEADERS ARE GLAD TO WIN THE HEARTS OF CONSUMERS

Backed by a robust market survey in Asia with the participation of 10,000 consumers, 50 companies are named the “Top Influential Brands”.

The Awardees by category are: E-Commerce: ZALORA, Tourism & Travel: Changi Airport Group, Gardens by the Bay, Retail: Marina Bay Sands, Fairprice Group, Chow Tai Fook, Lotus’s, Tops, Insurance: Muang Thai Life Assurance, Thai Life Insurance, Food & Beverage: Auntie Anne’s, Astons, Mister Donut, Din Tai Fung, Kopitiam, Old Chang Kee, Neo Garden, Polar, Harry’s, Big Onion Catering, Fast moving consumer goods: Sadia, Chew’s, Woh Hup, Cafe Pho, Fun-O, Tivoli, Education: MindChamps, NTUC LearningHub, PlayFACTO School, my first skool, Beauty & Health: A.M. aesthetics, AOz, Beijing Tong Ren Tang, Eu Yan Sang, Holistic Way, Others: Simmons, Ogawa, CarTimes, Cotto, Major Cineplex.

Finally, based on their branding efforts to engage customers and provide an excellence experience, 4 companies were recognised as Outstanding brands. The Awardees are: FWD Insurance, The Curtain Boutique, South East Life Insurance, Arch Angel, La Glace, Lamina Digital.

Mr. Henry Chu, Chief Executive Officer of Food Services (Kopitiam) at FairPrice Group, said: “I extend my heartfelt appreciation to our valued customers for choosing Kopitiam as their preferred food court in the Food Court category of the Influential Brands’ Top Brand 2023 awards. We take pride in our food court’s cleanliness, comfortable ambience, curation of different food types, cashless or takeaway conveniences and our Kopitiam Signature Breakfast sets.”

Mr. Justin Chen, CEO at PlayFACTO School, said: “What truly distinguishes PlayFACTO is our unwavering commitment to creating a nurturing environment for the best after school experience, consistently hailed as a “home away from home” by our parents. Our aim is to not only fuel motivation but to also inspire children to reach their full potential.

INSPIRING VISIONARIES SHAPING THE FUTURE: RECOGNIZING EXCELLENCE IN LEADERSHIP

The main highlight of the event in Singapore and Thailand was the recognition of the Top CEOs who were assessed based on their capacity to expand their business (local and international), financial performance, innovation and personal integrity.

Top CEO Winners from Asia, Thailand and Outstanding Leaders from Thailand
Top CEO Winners from Asia, Thailand and Outstanding Leaders from Thailand

Three prominent CEOs were awarded as ASIA’s Top CEO: Ms. Dione Song, CEO of Love Bonito and Mr. Choe Peng Sum, CEO of Pan Pacific Hotels Group and Mr. Bhurit Bhirombhakdi, Group CEO of Boon Rawd Brewery.

Besides, eight business leaders were recognised as Top CEOs in Thailand, namely, Mr.Stephane Coum, CEO of Central Food Retail Co., Mr. Sara Lamsam CEO of Muang Thai Life Assurance PCL., Mr. Chai Chaiyawan, CEO of Thai Life Insurance PCL., Mr. Vitoon Sila-On, CEO of S&P Syndicate PCL., Mrs. Salisa Piboonswadi, Founder and CEO of Comets Intertrade Company Limited, Mr. Ban Kasemsap, Co-CEO of of SCGJWD Logistics PCL., Mr. Phoosak Hirunyatrakul, Managing Director of Bara Scientific Company Limited and Mr. Vitai Ratanakorn, President and CEO of Government Saving Bank.

Based on her outstanding leadership capabilities and performance, the Outstanding Leader Award has been conferred to Ms. Pavarisa Chumvigrant, Chief Branding and Communications Officer of FWD Life Insurance PLC.

Mrs. Vannee Leelavechbutr, Founder & Chief Executive Officer of Neo Target, shared: “The CEO Summit & Award Ceremony in Thailand is more than just an event for celebration. We take great pride in our role in supporting and championing Thai organizations, entrepreneurs, and business owners. This endeavor is geared towards enhancing their competitiveness on both domestic and global fronts, ultimately aiming to propel them towards achieving the pinnacle of excellence as the foremost organizations in Asia.”

Mr. Jorge Rodriguez, Managing Director of Influential Brands, said, “It is our honour to recognise C-suite executives who are highly respected in their industries and are committed to embrace new business models with a great sense of responsibility. We are also committed to recognise Top and Outstanding Brands that have been able to delight consumers, gaining their trust and loyalty. Finally, the accolade of Top Employer is a true testament of companies’ efforts to implement best-in-class HR practices and build a great culture, making them the best employers to work for. We are looking forward to a greater engagement with ASEAN business leaders in 2024“.

Hashtag: #InfluentialBrands

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

About INFLUENTIAL BRANDS®

Influential Brands® is a think-tank, research and business recognition platform to celebrate “Champion of Excellence”.

Deeply embedded in our beliefs, is the need to foster a culture that honours the exemplary practices of leading brands in Asia, as well as their commitment to distinction. We delight in rejoicing with organisations over their successful brand efforts that have added value and left significant impression in their respective industries. Through this, we hope to contribute to the knowledge pool of best practices so that companies can produce quality and meaningful brands that influence and impact our environment, living standard, lifestyles and future.

The Influential Brands family of brands comprises global and regional brands from more than 15 countries worldwide.

Website: www.influentialbrands.com Facebook page: Influential Brands Facebook.

Shopee Retains Top Spot in Malaysia in 2024 with Laser Focus on Gen-Z

Unveils Faster Delivery, Enhanced AI Chatbot, and Industry-Leading Customer Service


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 April 2024 – Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, doubles down on operational and logistics investments in the country as it maintains its #1 marketplace position by average monthly active users and total time spent in-app. Shopee’s commissioned study with Kantar revealed recently that 70% of the platform’s buyers across Southeast Asia are now 32 years old and below (Generation Z), spending an average of 30 minutes on its app daily*.

Shopee’s Customer Service Team Celebrates Record User Satisfaction Rates
Shopee’s Customer Service Team Celebrates Record User Satisfaction Rates

Over 2023, Shopee enhanced fundamental capabilities to create seamless and safe experiences targeted to these digitally savvy buyers. This included providing Malaysians with faster and more flexible delivery options, such as Next Day delivery, Instant Delivery, and increased Shopee collection points for self-collection.

Malaysian users shopping or selling on the app contacted Shopee’s customer service team 9.5 million times with questions in 2023 — these cases were resolved within 30 seconds 98% of the time with success — and with 80% customer service satisfaction rate, the highest across industries.

The first point of contact for most Malaysians has typically been with Shopee’s proprietary AI chatbot, affectionately named Sophie (after the company’s mascot). Sophie’s neuro-linguistic programming was enhanced to help users along the way by recognising relevant intents, anticipating queries based on users’ live interactions, and providing more granular solutions based on a localised management playbook. In 2023, Sophie’s successful closure rate doubled, such that it resolved 80% of cases satisfactorily from 18 million chats handled before routing them to live customer service agents.

On this front, Shopee optimised the number of customer service agents available, and boosted their processes, training, and incentives so that even with the volume of questions throughout peak e-commerce shopping periods, end-to-end resolutions across cases of various complexities took less than a day to resolve and abandonment rate (dropped calls) were nearly zero at the end of 2023.

In fact, Shopee’s customer service agents received one of the best in market monthly incentives for good performance. They were also equipped with SOP Assistant Tool that empowered front line agents to solve more cases based on internal information and turned them into decision making experts using first-party CRM data across the platform.

Shopee’s customer service team often receives personalised feedback such as, “Very fast response from the team. Thanks a lot. I preferred using Shopee [over competitor], due to its simpler refund process. Thanks Shopee ” and “I appreciate your hard work! Customer service strives for prompt and efficient response. Thank you for acknowledging my concerns.”

“Users should use the Shopee Guarantee period wisely to track the status of their shipments and then check whether the products delivered meet their requirements. If users cannot use Seller Chat to resolve any issues with sellers directly, they should contact Shopee’s customer service agents directly. Shoppers can also report products using the Menu for seller features tab in the right corner of any product listing in order to help keep the community safe, as Shopee holds all sellers to high standards of responsible selling,’ explained Sern-Li Lim, Head of Operations at Shopee Malaysia.

In 2024, Shopee continues to enhance the capabilities of its logistics ecosystem to support faster shipping to buyers. Shopee’s logistics partner SPX has expanded warehouse facilities and will operate seven days a week. Shopee is also working closely with brands, sellers, and partners to aim for 95% of orders to be shipped out in the same day.

Moreover, Shopee has spearheaded a comprehensive and fuss-free returns policy to give millions of Malaysians confidence when looking to check out their desired products, including high-value goods, that they cannot touch or feel when shopping online. First, by enhancing the Return Refunds process so that it is much easier and shorter, completing in only two and a half days (compared to the retail industry sector benchmark of seven days), with two times more drop-off points and doorstep pick-up option. Second, by expanding its Change of Mind free returns, no questions asked policy from 19 March 2024 for more products and items, providing additional flexibility throughout the shopping journey during the 15-day Shopee Guarantee period.

A #ShopSafeWithShopee survey of 1,000 Malaysian shoppers aged 18 and above found that nine out of ten utilise platform features like Shopee Live demos, seller chat, Shopee Mall’s Authentic Deals circle, and Shopee Guarantee to ensure safe online shopping transactions**.

Notes to Editor:
* Kantar study “The Future of Shopping: Engaging Generation Z Shoppers in the Digital Era” commissioned by Shopee polled 2,000 respondents across Southeast Asia in January to March 2024

** #ShopSafewithShopee was a voluntary survey conducted on 1,095 buyers and 548 sellers between 14 August to 14 September 2023 on Shopee MY marketplace app.

Hashtag: #Shopee #ShopeeMY #ShopeeMalaysia

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

Shopee

Shopee is the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia & Taiwan. Shopee promotes an inclusive and sustainable digital ecosystem by enabling businesses to digitalise and grow their online presence, helping more people access and benefit from digital services, and uplifting local communities.

Shopee offers an easy, secure, and engaging experience that is enjoyed by millions of people daily. Shopee is also a key contributor to the region’s digital economy with a firm commitment to helping homegrown brands and entrepreneurs succeed in e-commerce.

Shopee is part of Sea Limited (NYSE: SE), a leading global consumer internet company. Sea’s mission is to better the lives of consumers and small businesses with technology through its three core businesses: Shopee, Garena and SeaMoney.