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Ice Association Announces Price Rise in Vientiane Capital

Ice Association Announces Ice Price Rise in Vientiane Capital
A pile of ice (photo: ໂຮງງານພູຂຽວ ນ້ຳກ້ອນ-ນ້ຳດື່ມ)

As rampant inflation continues to increase the cost of living in Laos, the Vientiane Ice Association has announced an increase in the price of ice across the city.

Tai Sang Land Development Celebrates Golden Jubilee

Hong Kong-RootedInnovation-DrivenFuture-Focused
50th anniversary celebrations include F&B and hotel accommodation giveaways

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 21 February 2023 – Tai Sang Land Development Limited (Tai Sang Land; Stock Code: 89, Listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited) today celebrates its 50th anniversary as a listed company. Tai Sang Land has sailed through the peaks and troughs alongside Hong Kong for over half a century. In honour of its Golden Jubilee and many more fruitful years to come, the Company is launching a series of giveaways for Hong Kong residents to enjoy free drinks and stays at the Arca hotel in Wong Chuk Hang.

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Rooted in Hong Kong; devoted to Hong Kong

Deeply rooted in Hong Kong for over 50 years, Tai Sang Land strongly values stability while also seeking to excel by making proactive changes. It continuously endeavours to develop a wide variety of quality property projects and services, advancing together with the economy of Hong Kong. “Tai Sang Land Development Limited” was founded by the late Mr. Ma Kam Chan, and its shares were listed on the Far East Exchange Limited and the Kam Ngan Stock Exchange Limited with a net asset value of approximately HK$160 million on 21st February 1973.

As the Hong Kong economy took off in the 1970s and 1980s, property demand also skyrocketed. Tai Sang Land developed an array of residential, industrial and warehouse, and commercial properties in the districts of North Point, Sai Wan, Aberdeen, Stanley, Kwun Tong and Kwai Chung, etc. Tai Sang Land also expanded into such other businesses as insurance and, in particular, because manufacturing and trading were the pillars of the Hong Kong economy at the time, Tai Sang Land also aggressively expanded into warehousing services, with a network occupying over 1 million square feet of warehouse space to cover the whole territory, and became the single largest operator of warehousing services at the time. Expanding into the international market, in the mid-1980s Tai Sang Land also built Montgomery Plaza, a high-rise office tower constructed atop a historical landmark in San Francisco, California, USA.

Striving for excellence through diversifying business streams

As the economy of Hong Kong gradually moved from manufacturing towards commercialisation in the late 1980s and 1990s, Tai Sang Land also shifted its strategies. Apart from purchasing residential land plots on The Peak, developing a composite building in Sai Wan and a luxury residential project, Floral Villas, in Sai Kung; as well as an industrial building in Shatin for sale and for leasing purposes, the Company gradually moved its strategy towards investment properties, and has amalgamated a quality property portfolio comprising residential, commercial, offices, warehouses and industrial properties as long-term holdings. Towards the end of the 1990s and end of the millennium, the Company progressively optimised and renovated its investment properties in order to enhance values. It carried out a substantial enhancement project for Tai Sang Container and Godown Centre in 2012 and rebranded it as Gateway ts, successfully transforming the property into a mixed-use building to attract professional and high-quality tenants.

Hong Kong’s tourism industry stepped into its golden age in 2004-2014, when the number of inbound visitors ballooned from some 21.8 million in 2004 to 60.83 million per annum in 2014. Riding on this momentum and the accelerated market demand, Tai Sang Land expanded into the hospitality industry with some floors of Hollywood Centre in Sheung Wan as its first hotel project, putting it into service in 2011. In order to reposition itself in the hospitality field, Tai Sang Land established Yulan Group Limited to provide a new standard in modern hospitality. Since 2019, Yulan Group has completed another enhancement project for the hotel at Hollywood Centre and rebranded it as the Figo in 2020, and also developed the Arca in 2021, by demolishing an industrial building, as a reflection of its service diversification and continual advancement.

Mr William Ma, Chairman and Chief Executive of Tai Sang Land Development Limited, said: “Upholding our determination to pursue excellence amidst steady growth, Tai Sang Land has walked hand-in-hand with Hong Kong for over 50 years, with its net worth rising 55 times over the years (to HK$9.03 billion as of 30th June 2022). Looking ahead, we are fully optimistic about the future of Hong Kong and Hong Kong will remain “Home” for Tai Sang Land. There will be many mega infrastructure development schemes coming up in Hong Kong. We will remain dedicated to exploring business opportunities, and we will stand strong in delivering exceptional service to exceed expectations, to cater to the ever-changing market demand, and to uphold and enhance values.”

Free giveaways to celebrate the Golden Jubilee with Hongkongers

To celebrate Tai Sang Land’s Golden Jubilee and its shared history with Hong Kong of over 50 years, the Arca is running a giveaway of hotel packages and beverages.

Promotion 1 – Giveaway of 500 Happy Hour beverages

  • Starting from 26th February 2023, the first 250 customers registering on this website will get 2 beverages for free. Customers can redeem any beverage on the Happy Hour menu in Arca Society on the following dates: 9th, 16th, 23th or 30th March.
  • Terms & conditions:
    • Customer can redeem the beverage from 3-8pm
    • Each customer is limited to redeeming 2 beverages in one go
    • Promotion is limited to the first 250 customers only and is available on a first come first served basis
    • The Arca reserves the right of revision on all terms and conditions. Program is subject to change without prior notice.
    • Employees of Tai Sang Land Development Limited and immediate family members shall not be entitled for the promotion
    • In case of disputes, the Arca reserves the right of final decision.
    • For more details, see “website

Promotion 2 – Giveaway of the Arca sea-view room x 1 night

  • Starting from 26th February 2023, the first 50 customers registering on this website will get an one-night stay at Sea Signature Room with complimentary breakfast for 2. Customers can redeem the promotion within 3 months.
  • Terms & conditions:
    • Each eligible customer can only redeem the promotion once
    • Promotion is limited to the first 50 customers only and is available on a first come first served basis
    • The Arca reserves the right of revision on all terms and conditions. Program is subject to change without prior notice.
    • Employees of Tai Sang Land Development Limited and immediate family members shall not be entitled for the promotion
    • In case of disputes, the Arca reserves the right of final decision.
    • For more details, see “website

Hashtag: #TaiSang

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

About Tai Sang Land Development Limited

Tai Sang Land Development Limited (Stock Code: 89, Listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited) is a limited liability company incorporated in Hong Kong. Main business operations involve asset investment, property leasing and development, property management and property agency, and hospitality operations.

At Tai Sang Land, we value tradition and appreciate change; we embrace progress and strive for excellence by proactively and continuously improving. We are committed to developing and enhancing our property portfolio to cater to the demands of the ever-changing property market and to upholding and uplifting our values.

Lao Airlines to Start Direct Flights to Da Nang Next Month

The Golden Bridge in Da Nung, Vietnam.

Lao Airlines will resume direct flights from Vientiane Capital to the coastal city of Da Nang, Vietnam in March this year.

Chartered Association of Building Engineers’ First-ever Asia Pacific Conference “Constructing our Future” Chart the way forward

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 21 February 2023 – The Chartered Association of Building Engineers’ (CABE), has held its inaugural Conference for Asia Pacific Region in Hong Kong. Hosted at the New Millennium Hotel and live on Zoom on 17 February 2023.

The theme for the conference was Constructing our Future and as we emerge from the pandemic it is essential that we turn our attention to the future. The construction industry is evolving so quickly, and whilst this presents many opportunities, it also presents many challenges.

Our esteemed speakers Ar. Donald CHOI, Executive Director and CEO at Chinachem Group, Ir. Professor Thomas CHAN, Executive Director at WSP (Asia) Limited, Dr. Raymond YAU, General Manager, Technical Services & Sustainable Development at Swire Properties Limited, Mr. Victor TAI JP , Under Secretary for Housing at HKSAR Government and Ms. Clarice YU JP , Director of Buildings at HKSAR Government, identified and explored the challenges and presented future solutions and innovations. Sharing their expertise and technical knowledge with the audience they provided information that can be used to implement the necessary changes that will have a real benefit to projects, buildings and buildings users lives.

One of the biggest challenges in the construction industry is its aging workforce– over 40% of those working in the construction industry in Hong Kong are over 55 – and it was acknowledged that we need to do more to encourage young people into the industry, it is an exciting industry, an industry that is embracing modern methods of construction, new technologies and new innovation, but young people are failing to recognise just how exciting the industry is and dismissing it as a career.

It is time to change, and some of this change will come from new, innovative digital technologies – AI, BIM, drones, robotics, computer simulation tools – and as professionals we need to continue to embrace this technology. These opportunities to create a modern culture for the industry, tools that will facilitate modern decision-making, drive efficiencies, improve safety structures and introduce news methods of working will change the face of the construction industry. and digital evolution is now a must to ensure the continual success of the sector.

The speakers explored the opportunities to decarbonise commercial buildings. Looking at how to implement net zero carbon projects into the industry and how to record robust construction data that allows you to identify consumption, to benchmark and compare usage and to identify trends. The audience was reminded that it is only when we can understand what the data is telling us that we can make effective and informed decisions allowing us to create smart energy management platforms and climate resilient designs for all new development projects.

Design for Well Being in public housing was explored in detail. With proven evidence that demonstrates that when you consider the wellness of the building inhabitants you can enrich people’s living standards. This should now be a critical consideration in the design of future buildings and is a key focus for CABE and its members.

The future of the construction industry is dependent on professionals collaborating, sharing knowledge and discussing solutions. Collaboration is a key part of CABE’s values, and we encourage professionals throughout the industry to embrace as many opportunities to come together – to discover more, to learn more. It is only by collaboration that members and professionals will adapt to the needs of the industry and build a better future for everyone.

Our thanks go to our sponsors Wanson Construction Company Limited, Pruden, S K K (HK) Co Ltd, Shinny Performance Training Centre, and KYSS Properties Limited for their support in delivering this successful conference and gala dinner.

For more information on CABE visit www.cbuilde.com

Hashtag: #CharteredAssociationofBuildingEngineers

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

Notes to Editors:

Chartered Association of Building Engineers (CABE) is a unifying voice within the construction sector.

As a professional body we bring together members, who work across the life-cycle of the built environment specialising across a wide range of disciplines. CABE shares knowledge, raises standards, and develops professionals, enabling them to meet the highest standards we all expect of them.

By supporting our members CABE improves collaboration and competency ensuring that building meet our essential human needs, today and tomorrow.

In 2020, CABE opened its first international office in Hong Kong. The Asia Pacific Office strengthens the links between CABE HQ and members in the region. Dedicated staff provide exceptional service in the region to improve collaboration, raise competency, and ensure that buildings meet our essential needs.

Construction Begins on Giant Khaen Hotel in Southern Laos

Artist's impression of the planned Mekong Intercontinental Hotel in Khong District, Champasack.
Artist's impression of the planned Mekong Intercontinental Hotel in Khong District, Champasack.

The Sithandon Special Economic Zone has begun construction of a hotel complex shaped like a giant khaen in Champasack’s Khong District at the four thousand islands.

Health Officials Find Formaldehyde in Food Products at Luang Prabang Markets

contaminated-formaldehyde cow tripe and squid found in markets in Luang Prabang.

Health officials have found formaldehyde in animal products and seafood across markets in Luang Prabang.

Hun Sen Offers Govt Jobs to Cambodian Journalists After Shutting Down News Outlet

Phnom Penh cityscape.
Phnom Penh, Cambodia.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen has offered government jobs to former employees of Voice of Democracy, the media outlet he ordered shut down earlier this month.

5 security tips to avoid malware on the internet in 2023

OctaFX security experts describe the most common types of malware that can infect your device and how to avoid it with five security steps.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach – 20 February 2023 – According to AV-Test Institute, an independent supplier of IT security services, there are more than 1.2 billion pieces of malware online in 2023. Every day, the organisation detects 450,000 new malware programs and potentially unwanted applications. Various scammers and hackers use such programs to steal money, sensitive information, or even use your online identity for their benefit. You can protect yourself by learning about malware and the ways to avoid it from this OctaFX guide.

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Types of malware

While the internet contains more than a billion different pieces of malware, there are several common types of it to be aware of. Those include:

  • Ransomware. This type of malware blocks access to your computer or the data stored on it until a ransom is paid. The data is usually encrypted, and any attempts to bypass the blocking might lead to the loss of it entirely. However, there is no guarantee that hackers will decrypt the data or that you will receive the correct decryption key once the ransom is paid.
  • Spyware. Such malware is used to collect information about users without their knowledge or consent. Spyware programs try to steal credentials and payment information, often by capturing keystrokes.
  • Adware. This software is in some way similar to spyware. Although it does not intend to steal your credentials, it gathers information about your web activity, interests, friends, places you live in or travel to, and then sell such a ‘profile’ to advertisers. In some cases, adware automatically downloads or displays advertisements to you.
  • Trojan. Trojans are usually disguised as a piece of software that users might want to download for free, such as pirated games, apps, programs, and services. When launched, a trojan takes over the system and either harms the computer or steals sensitive information.
  • Worm. This malicious program will exploit vulnerabilities in programs and operating systems to install itself into networks. Once there, it will not only steal sensitive information, but may also be used by hackers to launch DDoS attacks, ransomware attacks, and copy itself to other computers on the network.
  • Virus. Like worms, viruses may steal sensitive information and launch various cyberattacks. However, a virus is always part of some app and cannot execute or infect other computers on the network unless the host program is running.

Five security tips to avoid malware in 2023

Whichever of the above malware programs it is, you don’t want it on your computer. Apart from stealing your personal information and harming your device, various malware might hit other computers on the network. This can be particularly disastrous if it’s the work network, as it might lead to a huge data leak affecting your company and your clients. Here are five security tips from OctaFX that will help you avoid malware online:

  • Use antivirus software. Installing antivirus software on your computer will greatly reduce the risk of downloading and running malware. Scan USB drives and everything you download from unknown sources for malware.
  • Avoid pirated apps and software. Such free-of-charge files might contain unwanted bonuses, such as trojans and viruses, that can seriously harm your computer and steal your personal information.
  • Be careful when opening suspicious emails. Never download and open any files that come from unknown email addresses. Email attachments might contain pieces of malware, even if the file names do not seem to pose a threat.
  • Install the latest software updates. They usually contain important security patches that make it harder for malware to exploit their vulnerabilities.
  • Backup your data. This way, even if a malware program blocks your computer and encrypts your data, you will be able to restore it after the malware is deleted.

Cyber criminals invent thousands of new malware programs each day. While the tips above may not give you complete protection against them, they will significantly reduce the risks of getting malware in the first place.

Hashtag: #OctaFX

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

About OctaFX

is a global broker providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and a variety of services already utilised by clients from 150 countries with more than 21 million trading accounts. Free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools they provide help clients reach their investment goals.

The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including the improvement of educational infrastructure and short-notice relief projects supporting local communities.

OctaFX has also won more than 60 awards since its foundation, including the ‘Best Online Broker Global 2022’ award from World Business Outlook and the ‘Best Global Broker Asia 2022’ award from International Business Magazine.