Indonesia will demolish and rebuild a football stadium where more than 130 people including football fans and police died in a stampede earlier this month.
Over a Million Tourists Visit Laos This Year
Laos has seen an increasing number of visitors traveling to the country ever since it removed its travel restrictions in May following the Covid-19 crisis.
70% of CEOs say their network is slowing business growth, new NTT study finds
NTT’s new 2022 Global Network Report surveyed more than 1,300 enterprise networking professionals globally, uncovering a need for network modernisation to enable business growth
- 70% of CEOs globally say their level of network maturity is negatively affecting business delivery
- 72% of top performing businesses already outsource more than half of their network infrastructure
- The top trends driving modernisation of the enterprise network are cybersecurity, cloud-native platforms, Private 5G and the hybrid workplace
- 94% of business leaders are increasingly looking to partner with a Managed Service Provider or single specialist provider
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 20 October 2022 – NTT Ltd., a leading global IT infrastructure and services company, has today launched its 2022 Global Network Report, which found that 70% of CEOs believe their network maturity level is negatively affecting their business delivery. The adoption of hybrid, distributed work environments with multiple connected devices is erupting through enterprises but, despite investments, just two in five businesses say they are very satisfied with their current network capabilities. This has resulted in a new era of network modernisation, with the majority of executives relying on it to enable business growth (>90%) and support artificial intelligence (AIOps) (91%).
Keeping hybrid environments secure
With distributed hybrid work models presenting far more attack opportunities for malicious actors, the importance of network security has become a major component of network architecture. This has inspired organisations to move to more centralized, cloud-based security solutions and a managed endpoint security model, as well as increasing their investments in network cybersecurity. Most business leaders believe new threats will drive increased security demands for their enterprise network, requiring a deeper level of access control and inspection (93%).
The transformation to network as a service models
Respondents reported that their highest concerns, above even cost, are security, modernisation, and access to a full suite of services from their provider. In terms of managing the network, more than 90% of senior executives prefer the network as a service model, citing the flexibility to scale up and down as a major benefit. Additionally, a complexity in deploying effective AIOps and automation solutions, which simplify ongoing network operations but are complex to configure initially, make the network as a service model more attractive.
“Levels of investment in the network have surged, with the results of this research showing many organisations are leaning towards key partners and managed service solutions to fulfil their requirements. This is primarily to drive security and gain access to skills that can both optimize capability and accelerate innovation-based advances” said Amit Dhingra, Executive Vice President at NTT Ltd. Network Services.
Dhingra, concludes “We are in the midst of a modernisation of network services, however, many of the solutions that are currently in play for a minority will become standard inside just two years. Instead, organisations should turn their attentions to a network as a service model. Businesses should consider security, skills competency, ability to scale, private 5G, and software defined networking when selecting a network service provider. In the long term, blockchain, further AI and automation, AR and VR, quantum networking, 6G and photonic computing will affect how networks are delivered.”
Chris Barnard, Vice President at International Data Corporation (IDC) comments, “As new ways of working drive transformation, high performing enterprises realize the value of investing in strategic technologies – core enterprise networks, 5G, edge, artificial intelligence. To support the networking requirements of emerging digital services and applications, organisations are modernizing their enterprise networks, allowing for more efficient use and management of the networks that underpin their enterprises. Enterprises that have not invested risk negatively affecting their growth opportunities. As the network plays a fundamental role in digital transformation strategies and distributed working and processing, we can expect to see more enterprise network upgrades as technologies such as AI and security defenses are layered on to mainstream enterprise networking. While it can seem complex, service providers such as NTT can evaluate flexible deployment options that drive business value.”
The report concludes with seven considerations for executives to evolve and future-proof their network. Read the full 2022 Global Network Report here.
In tandem with the report’s launch, NTT Ltd. will also be hosting the latest iteration of its APAC iNTTerconnected virtual summit – ‘Enable the connected future through smarter networks’ – on Tuesday, 8 November 2022, 13:00 – 14:30 (GMT +8). Participants will be able to find out more about the report’s key findings as well as understand why network architecture is critical to organisations and how business leaders can leverage Network as a Service to transform their customer’s experience of their business. You can register for the event here.
NTT Ltd. is a leader in the Gartner Magic Quadrant for Enterprise Network Services, Global, positioned highest for both its “Completeness of Vision” and “Ability to Execute” among 18 network service providers.
Methodology
The report is based on research conducted by Jigsaw Research on behalf of NTT Ltd. across 21 countries in five regions in July and August 2022. The research spanned 16 industry sectors including: retail and wholesale, manufacturing and automotive, financial services, technology and health. The research is based on a sample of network decision-makers/influencers in IT and wider business roles.
Hashtag: #NTT
About NTT Ltd.
As part of NTT DATA, a USD 30 billion IT services provider, NTT Ltd. is a leading IT infrastructure and services company serving 65% of the Fortune Global 500 and more than 75% of the Fortune Global 100. We lay the foundation for organisations’ edge-to-cloud networking ecosystem, simplify the complexity of their workloads across multicloud environments, and innovate at the edge of their IT environments where networks, cloud and applications converge. We offer tailored infrastructure and ensure consistent best practices in design and operations across all of our secure, scalable and customizable data centers. On the journey towards a software-defined future, we support organisations with our platform-delivered infrastructure services. We enable a connected future.
Visit us at services.global.ntt
Lao Central Bank Bans Money Exchangers From Selling Foreign Currencies
The Bank of the Lao PDR (BOL) has put out a notice preventing currency exchange units associated with commercial banks from selling foreign currency.
Vientiane’s Chanthabouly District Police Double Down on Crimes
In the first six months of the year, Vientiane Capital’s police have cracked down on numerous crimes being committed in the district and were able to solve many of them.
OPPO held a 2-month carnival to celebrate the 2nd anniversary of OPPO Service Day

Moving back to October 10th, 2020, OPPO Service Day was initially launched in 8 countries/regions. After that, OPPO held a Super Service Day special event last June and officially extended its Service Day from 1 day to 3 days, that is 10-12th of each month. And October 10th, 2022, marked the 2nd anniversary of OPPO Service Day, which represents a new milestone to it. So far, OPPO users can enjoy 8 major exclusive benefits on Service Day at more than 900 service centers in 24 countries/regions all over the world.

“Inspiring” is one of the keywords of OPPO’s service motto. The purpose of the Service Day event is not only about phone repair but also providing users with friendly service. And the process of providing service for users is not only to solve their phone problems, but also to help them gain new skills and expand new knowledge. At the same time, it is also a process for OPPO to listen to users’ voices and feedback, constantly optimize and develop its products and service, and grow together with users.
In the future, OPPO will strive to provide more friendly and professional services, and look forward to the next 2 years together with all users!
On the next Service Day, 10-12th November, OPPO nice to meet you again!
For more: https://support.oppo.com/en/serviceday-select/
Hashtag: #OPPO
7-Eleven new and exclusive Disney Ramen Bowls are here to add magic to your ramen time
Mickey, Spider-Man, The Avengers, and more are featured in these must-have Ramen Bowls through 7-Eleven’s latest Shop and Earn Stamps programme
- Collect all seven designs of the gleeful Disney family featuring: Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Daisy Duck, Winnie the Pooh, Chip ‘N Dale, Toy Story and Marvel favourites – Spider-man and Avengers
- All seven ceramic ramen bowls are microwave-safe, come with a food grade plastic lid and themed slender chopsticks and can store up to approximately 620 ml and can withstand temperatures from 0–100°C
- Earn a stamp with every $5 spent; collect eight stamps, and top up $9.90 in cash to redeem a blind box containing a random ramen bowl with 7-Eleven’s Shop and Earn stamps programme. Get an additional stamp when you purchase any star products
- Stamp issuance and redemption of ramen bowls begin on 26 October at all 7-Eleven stores; stamp issuance ends on 20 December, and redemption ends on 27 December, or while stocks last
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 20 October 2022 – Disney fans can once again look forward to an exciting collaboration between 7-Eleven and Disney through its latest Shop and Earn Stamps programme! Coming to town is a limited-edition collection of 7 Ramen Bowls, featuring characters from Walt Disney, Pixar, and Marvel. Whether you want to satiate your late-night noodle cravings or enjoy a hearty rice bowl for lunch, these functional ramen bowls can be your go-to! They are exclusively available for redemption at all 7-Eleven stores islandwide from 26 October.

This range of Disney ramen bowls comes in 7 designs: the classic Disney duo, Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse; the adorable pair Donald Duck and Daisy Duck, Winnie the pooh in a cute yellow bowl; a bowl featuring the playful duo, the Chipmunks, Chip ‘n Dale; Toy Story characters in a bright blue bowl and two bowls with your superhero favourites Spider-man and the Avengers.
Each 140mm ceramic bowl can store up to approximately 620ml and withstand temperatures between 0 – 100 °C, making it perfect for serving your favourite rice or noodles meals! All seven bowls are decorated with different characters in a variety of colours and styles. A set of chopsticks and a matching lid that can be used as a plate for side dishes are also included with the Ramen Bowl. The small handle on the lid, which is decorated with various character images, adds to the charm and ups the cuteness factor!
The Ramen Bowls come with themed chopsticks approximately 19 cm in length and are best suited for kids or even kids-at-heart. When not in use, you can place them in the thoughtfully crafted slot in the lid!
Build your collection, and grab all seven limited-edition designs while stocks last!
Earn a stamp with every $5 spent, collect eight stamps, and top up $9.90 in cash to redeem a randomly packed ramen bowl.
Stamps can be earned for eight weeks between 26 October and 20 December, while the ramen bowls can be redeemed until 27 December or while stocks last. Visit your nearby 7-Eleven right away to purchase this limited-edition collection that will make you swoon! Find your nearest one here.
More Disney treasures coming your way!
Create your own ramen bowl set with Disney sauce plates & spoons
These matching sauce plates and spoons are a must-have to complete your Disney collection. They come in 7 different designs featuring your favourite characters. Place your side dishes or seasoning in the sauce dish and together with the ceramic spoon, savour every bite of the divine Disney experience!
Slurp your favourite drinks with the versatile Disney-themed Stainless Steel Tumblers
There are more Disney goodies in store for you! Bring the magic with every sip with 3 Disney vacuum-insulated tumblers featuring Mickey & Minnie, Winnie the Pooh, and Spider-Man. They are adorably designed and are available in a number of matte colors that go great with the characters. The Vacuum Insulated Double Wall tumbler comes with an inner wall made of food-grade 304 stainless steel, making them suitable for hot beverages. A food-grade 304 stainless steel straw is included with each cup, which has a capacity of about 475ml, also making them perfect for super-sized cold drinks!
7-Eleven is also bringing to you two Disney-themed umbrellas featuring the Toy Story Aliens and Donald Duck. For lifelong fans who can’t get enough of the Disney magic, look out for these delightful Disney merchandise that are landing in 7-Eleven stores across Singapore!
Product Name | Selling Price | Characters |
Sauce plate and spoon | With any purchase + $5.90 |
|
Stainless Steel Tumbler | With any purchase + $16.90 |
|
Umbrella | With any purchase + $16.90 |
|
Qualified spending for stamp collection and purchase-with-purchase items exclude redemption of Disney Ramen Bowl Sets with cash portion, tobacco products, parking coupons, bill payments, top-up services, lottery sales, electronic gift cards, pre-orders, foodpanda and other delivery service purchases.
Hashtag: #7Eleven
About 7-Eleven
Established in Singapore in 1983, 7-Eleven has since expanded to more than 450 stores island-wide to become the leading 24-hour convenience chain store. We take pride in serving the Singapore community 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 7-Eleven emphasises convenience and value by offering a wide array of quality products, food and services to satisfy the needs of its customers. Think 7-Eleven and what comes to mind are the refreshing Slurpee, 7Café as well as a wide range of quality Ready Meals and sandwiches under 7-Select. 7-Eleven is also a 24/7 one-stop destination for customers who need to access bill payment services in their own time. Our services cover payment of utilities, courier services, and even cash withdrawal.
For more information, visit www.7-eleven.com.sg
FZ Digital, a technology solutions company, launches in Singapore to bring cutting edge automation and robotics technology to Singapore’s F&B industry
- It aims to be the platform to propel Singapore’s F&B industry into a robot-enhanced workforce, alleviating Singapore’s F&B manpower crisis
- The company is introducing first-in Singapore F&B robotics and smart kiosks with global partners, CloudMinds and POSBANK
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 20 October 2022 – FZ Digital, a new F&B technology solutions company, is introducing cutting edge automation and robotics technology to Singapore’s food and beverage (F&B) industry. Launched in October 2022, it aims to be at the forefront of a robot-enhanced F&B workforce while being the go-to resource for the best F&B technology solutions in Singapore. Partnering with CloudMinds and POSBANK, FZ Digital will be launching Singapore’s first F&B robotics and smart kiosks, to push innovation and alleviate Singapore’s F&B manpower crisis.

The partnership will see the launch of two AI robots, the Cloud Ginger Lite D Series, and smart kiosks during FHA-HoReCa (25 – 28 October 2022) as part of the timely solution to address manpower woes in the F&B industry and assist F&B SMEs to maximize productivity and revenue while providing better customer experience. Implementing robotics in F&B establishments is estimated to save between 30%-70% on labour costs for restaurants, with many coming out of prototype phase and able to perform most if not all of the tasks humans can[1]. This will significantly reduce both dependency on human labour and manpower costs. Artificial Intelligence (AI) Robots is a fast growing industry projected to be worth USD54.3 billion globally by 2030[2].
“The introduction of robotics into F&B is a much-needed step especially in recent times to push innovation and alleviating the many woes of the F&B industry. Manpower issues and labour shortages have become rampant in Singapore and worldwide, with the recovery of many restaurants and F&B outlets from the pandemic dampened by a stark struggle to hire staff. Many who left the country when borders shut have decided to not return, resulting in severe shortage and, consequently, higher costs to obtain and retain labour,” said Chris Tarr, Chief Product Officer of FZ Digital.
FZ Digital: Automating The Future
1DERLIFE Growth, an acquisition company based in Singapore led by principal, Gregory Lee, acquired FoodZaps, a POS software company founded in 2014 with 200 F&B customers in Singapore and 300 in Malaysia. It then launched FoodZaps as FZ Digital, a hardware and software integrated solutions company for the F&B industry. Lee has long believed that manpower challenges for SMEs in Singapore will be one of the greatest challenges and as a result, software and robotics automation solutions market will grow rapidly. 1DERLIFE Growth has plans for additional acquisitions to build scale in the F&B solutions sector.
Forming a new management team for FZ Digital, bringing together Chelsea Chan, previously FoodZap’s co-founder and 8-year industry leader, as Managing Director, and Chris Tarr, a veteran of software and mobile services industry and former executive of Samsung Electronics, as Chief Product Officer. FZ Digital seeks to streamline and revolutionize the way the F&B industry works.
Chris Tarr is a veteran leader of new business and product innovation, with over 15 years of experience at Samsung, who has recently joined FZ Digital as its Chief Product Officer. As Regional Head of Mobile Services and Partnerships at Samsung, Chris brings extensive experience innovating and launching new mobile services across Southeast Asia. He holds an MBA from INSEAD and spent his early career as a senior software architect in numerous startups after graduating from MIT.
Launching Singapore’s first F&B robotics and smart kiosks
The two robotic stock-keeping units (SKUs) that will be launched officially during FHA-HoReCa are the D300 Circular Tray and D311 Square Cabinets automated food delivery robots, both equipped with an integrated auto navigation and obstacle system to run stably in complex situations. Using clever localization and navigation based on a 3D semantic map and multiple sensors, they have the ability to perceive their 3D environment to deliver food to diners quickly and safely.
The installation is straightforward and takes places across three phases, namely:
- Syncing the AI platform (the robots) to AI machine learning, programmed with modules to make the robots the first cloud-based robot solution
- Digitally mapping and mirroring the real-time and virtual environment to the prototype to develop, test and train the robots on how to manoeuvre themselves
- Installing and plugging the robots into actual physical environment to run
Based on the cloud communication and algorithm architecture, rapid decision-making and intelligent scheduling is carried out according to the urgency of the task to ensure the orderly operation of multiple robots. By interconnecting with other Internet of Things (IoT) devices such as elevators, access control, turnstiles, and telephones, Ginger Lite can provide accurate delivery services autonomously.
Partnership with CloudMinds and POSBANK
CloudMinds is the world’s first operator of cloud intelligent robots and has been committed to the implementation of artificial intelligence technology using robots and all types of smart devices. Utilizing the leading cloud intelligent robot solution, CloudMinds has built a smart cloud platform based on HARIX architecture and will offer a variety of services including smart building, smart security, smart property management, and more. CloudMinds’ full range of intelligent robots may be deployable in many scenarios such as hospitality, reception, security, patrol, or even as a smart doorman. Therefore, FZ Digital has partnered with CloudMinds to provide robot services to Singapore F&B SMEs.
POSBANK is the number one point of sale (POS) and self-service kiosk manufacturing company in Korea and has one of the lowest error rates in the marketplace at 0.5%. It is also the global leading provider of point of sale (POS) with more than 200 partners in 80 countries worldwide. It continually pushes the boundaries of industry standards with sophisticated design and high-performance products to solve industry needs.
For high-res images, please access here.
Hashtag: #FZDigital
About FZ Digital
FZ Digital, previously known as FoodZaps, is a POS software company founded in 2014 with 200 F&B customers in Singapore and 300 in Malaysia. 1DERLIFE Growth, an acquisition company based in Singapore acquired the company and launched it as FZ Digital, a hardware and software integrated solutions company for the F&B industry. Using robotics, smart automation, and Internet of Things, FZ Digital seeks to streamline and change the way the F&B industry works for the better.