Lao authorities seized 42.5 kg of heroin in two airport busts. (Photo: Lao Ministry of Finance)
Lao authorities intercepted two drug trafficking attempts on 21 and 22 May, seizing a total of 42.5 kilograms of heroin at Wattay International Airport.
The operations, which unfolded within 48 hours, involved officers from the Investigation and Anti-Smuggling Division working with customs officers, immigration police, and international terminal protocol staff.
On 22 May, authorities conducted searches of suspicious individuals and packages, resulting in the discovery of 14 packets of heroin weighing 14 kilograms, concealed within animal feed bags and coffee bags that had been prepared for international transport.
A Bulgarian national was arrested in connection with the seizure and transferred to the authorities for further investigation.
The previous day, on 21 May, officers conducted a search on three suspicious bags belonging to a passenger from an undisclosed African nation.
The inspection uncovered 31 packets of heroin, totaling 28.5 kilograms, hidden inside animal feed and coffee bags.
Both cases remain under investigation by the Lao Ministry of Public Security.
MUMBAI, India, May 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Swedish steelmaker SSAB has successfully taken action against two India-based companies found dealing in counterfeit Hardox® steel plates. These unauthorised products, bearing the Hardox® trademark and SSAB logo, included falsified product mill certificates and exhibited severe product quality issues, making them incomparable to genuine Hardox® wear plate. Nonetheless, they were misrepresented as genuine Hardox® wear plate.
Following an investigation and a lawsuit, Naresh Steel & Engineering Co. and Parmar Steel admitted to trademark infringement and passing off, both serious violations of SSAB’s intellectual property rights. The companies not only paid exemplary damages but also faced a permanent injunction in the lawsuit, and were directed to cease all use of the infringing marks. Additionally, they issued unconditional public apologies to SSAB and committed to ceasing such activities in the future. In their apologies, Naresh Steel and Parmar Steel acknowledged that “trademark infringement and passing off are gross violations of intellectual property rights of SSAB” and offered “an unconditional apology.”
Naresh Steel Apology
Parmar Steel Apology
Protecting customers from counterfeit products
Only the Swedish steel manufacturer SSAB produces genuine Hardox® wear plate, and Hardox® wear plate is only available from SSAB and from SSAB-certified suppliers. Each month, SSAB successfully removes hundreds of website links, online marketplace advertisements such as those on Indiamart, and social media pages offering counterfeit products or falsely claiming to stock genuine Hardox® wear plate.
“In the Mumbai area alone, there are a significant number of traders who falsely claim to stock Hardox® steel”, says Subodh Shinde, country head of SSAB Steel India. “Our primary goal is to protect end customers from the risks associated with substandard steel, as these can lead to severe operational, financial and safety consequences, and we therefore continue to aggressively enforce our trademark rights and take legal action against any company infringing our intellectual property.”
Hardox® wear plate is a premium, high-quality product known for its exceptional hardness and toughness. Its guaranteed properties deliver outstanding performance, making it a market leader in wear resistance—and naturally, not a low-cost option. Therefore, a simple guiding principle is that if a deal seems too good to be true, it likely involves counterfeit steel. Extremely low prices are a red flag that the product is not genuine Hardox® wear plate. SSAB strongly encourages buyers to purchase Hardox® wear plate only from SSAB-certified suppliers, who hold the exclusive rights to distribute its products.
SSAB maintains its own sales network. To ensure product authenticity, Hardox® wear plate should only be purchased through the following authorised SSAB channels:
SSAB’s own local stocks in India or SSAB’s mills: +91 22 6673 0265, email: Subodh.shinde@ssab.com
At SSAB, we are committed to ensuring that customers receive only high-quality, genuine Hardox® wear plate they can trust. If you encounter branded steel that you suspect is not genuine Hardox® wear plate, we urge you to contact your local SSAB sales team immediately.
The risks of buying from unauthorized sources
Buying from unauthorised sources may result in:
Operational setbacks – Counterfeit steel often has lower quality and therefore lower durability, leading to frequent repairs, replacements and increased maintenance costs.
Health and safety risks – Inferior materials may compromise structural integrity, increasing the risk of failures and accidents.
Legal repercussions – The use of counterfeit steel could lead to litigation, fines or other regulatory consequences.
Environmental impact – Counterfeit production methods often neglect sustainability standards, leading to increased contamination and waste.
SSAB is a Nordic and US-based steel company that builds a stronger, lighter and more sustainable world through value added steel products and services. Working with our partners, SSAB has developed SSAB Fossil-free™ steel and plans to reinvent the value chain from the mine to the end customer, largely eliminating carbon dioxide emissions from our own operations. SSAB Zero™, a largely carbon emission-free steel based on recycled steel, further strengthens SSAB’s leadership position and our comprehensive, sustainable offering independent of the raw material. SSAB has employees in over 50 countries and production facilities in Sweden, Finland and the US. SSAB is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm and has a secondary listing on Nasdaq Helsinki. Join us on our journey! www.ssab.com, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, X and YouTube.
BANGKOK, May 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Unilever Food Solutions successfully hosted the FUTURE MENUS EVENT 2025 IN BANGKOK, bringing together over 330 chefs, entrepreneurs, and food service experts to explore the future of dining.
Unilever Food Solutions Future Menus 2025 Sparks Culinary Innovation in Southeast Asia
Under the theme “Unleash the Taste of Asia,” the event spotlighted four key trends shaping innovation in the evolving restaurant industry. Attendees engaged with forward-thinking ideas through immersive experiences, panel discussions, and live cooking demonstrations, redefining modern dining.
Key Trends Shaping the Future of Dining
Street Food Couture elevated bold street flavors into premium cuisine, featuring Spicy Fermented Salmon Salad in Pani Puri Shells(Thailand) and Small Crab Sticky Rice(Vietnam).
Culinary Roots honored heritage flavors with Arsik Ikan Fish(Indonesia) and Nasi Lemak(Malaysia), celebrating Southeast Asia’s rich culinary traditions.
Borderless Cuisine blended global influences, exemplified by Beef Pares Style Tacos(Philippines) and Green Peppercorn “Tigermilk”(Singapore).
Diner Designed – A showcase of personalization in dining, focusing on bespoke culinary experiences rather than specific menu offerings. Creativity and customization took center stage.
Culinary Innovation Meets Data-Driven Strategy
Beyond food trends, the event emphasized the power of data in modern dining. Entrepreneurs Krittikul Chumkaew (After Yum) and Rungsun Promprasith (QueQ Thailand) shared insights on using data to optimize restaurant operations and enhance customer experiences.
An Inspired Culinary Finale & Industry Insights
Future Menus 2025 culminated in a stunning four-course dinner curated by Chef Pam – Pichaya Soontornyanakij and the Unilever Food Solutions chef team, featuring dishes inspired by event trends.
Reflecting on the event’s impact, Kulnipa Lertpimonchai, Managing Director of Unilever Food Solutions SEA Mainland, described Future Menus 2025 as more than just a trend showcase. She emphasized its significance as a platform where visionaries can exchange ideas and drive progress in the food service industry.
Meanwhile, Angela Klute, Global Chief Marketing Officer of Unilever Food Solutions, underscored the industry’s evolving landscape, as Gen Z embraces personalization, Asian flavors gain global popularity, and consumers seek accessible luxury. She reinforced Future Menus 2025 as a key driver helping chefs and restaurateurs adapt to these transformative shifts.
With its resounding success, Future Menus 2025 solidified its position as a landmark event driving culinary innovation in Southeast Asia, reinforcing Unilever Food Solutions’ commitment to shaping the industry through creativity and forward-thinking ideas.
– Leveraging data and AI to create a more enriched future –
TOKYO, May 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — NEC Corporation (NEC; TSE: 6701) will demonstrate advanced retail solutions at “NRF 2025: Retail’s Big Show Asia Pacific” (NRF 2025 APAC) at Hall A-C, Stand 821 from June 3-5 at the Marina Bay Sands Expo, Singapore.
The National Retail Federation (NRF) hosts one of the world’s largest retail conferences every January in New York, boasting a 114-year history with approximately 35,000 participants from 75 countries. This year is the second time for the NRF to host an APAC event, and first time for NEC to participate.
During the show, NEC will demonstrate cutting-edge technologies that are driving digital transformation (DX) in next-generation retail by addressing societal and business challenges, enhancing customer experiences, and improving employee efficiency.
NEC Booth
Together with its partners, NEC is committed to leveraging data and AI to create a more enriched and sustainable future.
A stylish, space-saving POS system with 13 modular combinations maximizes retail store needs. The Omni POS APP leverages the latest cloud technology for flexible use in both retail and dining.
Customer Experience x Data Analytics – Unified shopping journey powered by apps Product/Solutions: NEC CxD (Customer Experience x Data Analytics)
By leveraging corporate apps to collect offline data and utilizing AI-driven attribute expansion, as well as integrating offline and online data with e-commerce for advanced analytics, app integration helps retail companies enhance the customer experience.
Business Transformation with Data-Driven Utilization Product/Solutions: Celonis
By visualizing operations and systems, data-driven utilization enables the early detection of issues that hinder digital transformation (DX). Furthermore, AI-driven process optimization, automation, and practical consulting facilitate smooth and effective business transformations.
Integrated Management Platform for digital stores I Product/Solutions: NEC ITS/DSP Solution
This scalable platform centralizes retail operations, streamlining store openings and closures, equipment and inventory management, and on-site workflows. With mobile compatibility and features that include notifications and report visualization, it enables faster decision-making and optimized operations.
NEC Corporation has established itself as a leader in the integration of IT and network technologies while promoting the brand statement of “Orchestrating a brighter world.” NEC enables businesses and communities to adapt to rapid changes taking place in both society and the market as it provides for the social values of safety, security, fairness and efficiency to promote a more sustainable world where everyone has the chance to reach their full potential. For more information, visit NEC at http://www.nec.com.
MELBOURNE, Australia, May 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Issuer would like to offer your institution the opportunity to participate as a noteholder under a loan note deed poll, dated as of 27 May 2025 (the Loan Note Deed) in respect of notes to be issued by the Issuer under the Loan Note Deed, as described in more detail in the commercial terms sheet attached to this offer letter (the Notes). The proceeds of the Notes will be used by the Issuer to, among other things, make investments that are consistent with the Investment Plan set out in the trust deed of the WIP Capital Investments Trust (the Trust).
For the purpose of carrying out certain regulated activities, the Issuer is appointed by Wingate Financial Services Pty Ltd (ACN 106 480 602) (the Investment Manager or Licensee) as its corporate authorised representative. This offer letter, and any offer in respect of the Trust, will be made by the Licensee under an intermediary authorisation agreement between the Issuer and Licensee, where the Licensee will make offers to arrange for the issue, variation and disposal of financial products in connection with the Trust. The Issuer will then issue the financial products in accordance with the offer, if it is accepted.
Tax Act Public Offer
The Notes will be documented under the Loan Note Deed in accordance with section 128F of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1936 (Cth) of Australia (the Tax Act). This letter constitutes an offer to issue the Notes in accordance with the “public offer test” in subsection 128F(3) of the Tax Act.
It is intended that the Notes will be issued in a manner that satisfies the public offer test and other requirements of section 128F of the Tax Act. Accordingly, Offshore Associates (as defined below) of the Issuer will not be permitted to acquire an interest in the Notes.
Participants will be required to make customary representations, warranties and covenants regarding their status to ensure compliance with Australia’s interest withholding tax exemption regime, and in particular, will be asked to confirm that except as disclosed to the Issuer at the time of this offer, they are not so far as they have actual knowledge, an Offshore Associate of the Issuer.
In this letter, “Associate” has the meaning given in subsection 128F(9) of the Tax Act and “Offshore Associate” means an Associate who would acquire an interest in the circumstances specified in subsections 128F(5)(b) and (c) of the Tax Act.
General Conditions of Participation
Final allocations will be determined by the Issuer in its absolute discretion. The Issuer reserves the right to scale back or accept oversubscriptions, and to withdraw this offer at any time or close or extend the review period for considering this offer at any time before or after the stated date for receipt of responses.
Each offered investor must independently make its own credit analysis and decision to enter into the transaction.
Principal terms
The details of the Loan Note Deed are set out in the term sheet in the schedule to this letter (the Term Sheet).
Confidential Information
Please note that the recipients of this offer are required to keep all information regarding the Notes, the Loan Note Deed, and the Trust (the Confidential Information), confidential. Recipients are not to discuss the Confidential Information with each other or disclose any details to any third parties without the prior written consent of the Issuer. This letter must not be reproduced, used or given to any other person, in whole or in part, for any purpose other than that for which it is intended.
For the avoidance of doubt, the Issuer may disclose any Confidential Information and the information contained in this letter as required by law or regulation or by any applicable stock exchange without the need to obtain any prior approval or consent.
Singaporean Selling Legend
The offer, issue, and sale of the Notes are and will be exempt from the registration and prospectus delivery requirements of the Securities and Futures Act of Singapore 2001 (SFA), and have not and will not be lodged or registered as a prospectus with the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Accordingly, statutory liability under the SFA in relation to the content of prospectuses does not apply, and you should consider carefully whether the investment is suitable for you. The Monetary Authority of Singapore assumes no responsibility for the contents of this document or any other document or material related to the offer, issue, and sale of the Notes. This offer and any other document or material in connection with the offer or sale, or invitation for subscription or purchase, of the Notes may not be circulated or distributed, nor may the Notes be offered or sold, or be made the subject of an invitation for subscription or purchase, whether directly or indirectly, to any person in Singapore other than pursuant to, and in accordance with the conditions of, any other applicable provision of the SFA. The offer of the Notes relates to schemes which are not authorised or recognised by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and are not allowed to be offered to the retail public.
Process
If you are interested in participating as a noteholder under the Loan Note Deed you are requested to sign and return the below expression of interest by no later than 10 June 2025 to:
Wingate Financial Services Pty Ltd Level 48, 101 Collins Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000 Attention: Michael Sack Email: msack@wingate.com.au
By countersigning this letter, you are merely expressing your interest to participate as a noteholder under the Loan Note Deed. Such expression of interest is non-binding and is not intended to indicate your approval of the Term Sheet.
By countersigning this letter, you represent and warrant that your institution is not, so far as you have actual knowledge or grounds to suspect, an Offshore Associate of the Issuer.
Countersigned by
Signed:_____________________________
Name: _____________________________
Title: _____________________________
Schedule – Term Sheet – WIP Capital Investments Trust
Terms
Issuer
WIP Capital Investments Pty Ltd (ACN 686 632 066) acts as trustee for the Trust.
Trust
An Australian unit trust established to make direct or indirect debt investments across multiple asset classes and sectors in Australia known as “WIP Capital Investments Trust”. The Trust will be predominantly funded by the issuance of Notes to the noteholders (the Noteholders).
An offer to subscribe for loan notes on the terms described in the Loan Note Deed. The offer is intended to satisfy the requirements of section 128F of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1936.
Issue Maximum
AU$100 million excluding co-investments, or as determined by the Issuer from time to time in order to meet the Trust’s funding requirements.
Currency
Australian Dollars (AUD).
Security
Unsecured.
Interest payment
Interest is linked to the underlying loans and it is targeting a return equal to the aggregate of the RBA Cash Rate plus a variable return of 2.5% – 5.5%. The anticipated return is not guaranteed. The interest will only be paid to the extent there are cash receipts available for distribution.
Purpose
The Issuer will establish the Trust to gain exposure to borrowers situated in Australia by making direct or indirect debt investments across multiple asset classes and sectors in Australia.
Term
5 years from closing plus extension for up to 1 additional year, provided that if the Noteholder does not request repayment of the Notes 90 days before the termination of last day of the Term, the Notes will automatically rollover to new notes for another 5 years on the same terms of issue as the Notes unless the Issuer determines otherwise.
Currency Hedging
None. The Trust will make loan investments in AUD.
Fees
Nil.
Early Prepayment
The Noteholder may request early prepayment of any or all of its Notes on a monthly basis (Early Prepayment Request). If there is sufficient cash to prepay the Notes specified in the Early Prepayment Request, the Issuer shall prepay such Notes in full. If there is insufficient cash available, the Issuer may prepay the Notes the subject of Early Prepayment Request as and when the underlying loans or investments are repaid, redeemed or otherwise disposed of.
Limitation of liability
The Issuer enters into the transaction documents (including Loan Note Deed) only in its capacity as trustee of the Trust. Any liability is limited to, and can be enforced against the Issuer only to the extent to which it can be satisfied out of the assets of the Trust out of which the Issuer is actually indemnified for the liability.
Transferability
The Noteholder can only transfer any or all of its Notes if the Issuer, in its sole discretion, consents to the transfer in writing and satisfies other requirements set out in the Loan Note Deed.
Allianz Safety and Shipping Review 2025: Trade conflict between the US and China and growing shadow fleet add to substantial challenges for the shipping industry.
Despite geopolitical headwinds: only 27 large ships lost worldwide in 2024, down by more than 20%, the industry’s lowest-ever total.
Progress made on traditional risks such as fires, collisions, and groundings, which are the main causes of losses, but potential for large claims remains a concern.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 May 2025 – The fast-changing geopolitical landscape is creating new risks and challenges for a shipping industry already juggling the energy transition and the legacy of the Covid-19 pandemic, according to Allianz Commercial’s Safety and Shipping Review. The industry faces an increasingly volatile and complex operating environment, marked by attacks against shipping, vessel detentions, sanctions, as well as the fall-out from incidents involving damage to critical sub-sea cables. Furthermore, the ripple effect of increasing protectionism and tariffs threatens to remake supply chains and shake up established trade relations.
Given 90% of international trade is transported across oceans, those developments are concerning, especially as the industry continues to see the potential for large claims from traditional risks such as fires, collisions and groundings, which are still the main drivers for total losses of large vessels. However, there is also good news. The shipping industry has made significant improvements when it comes to maritime safety in recent years. During the 1990s the global fleet was losing 200+ vessels a year. This total had halved 10 years ago and is now down to a record low of 27 as of the end of 2024 (from 35 in 2023).
“The relevance of political risk and conflict as a potential cause of maritime loss is increasing with heightened geopolitical tensions. Total losses from traditional causes may have reduced over time, but we could be in a position where this positive trend is potentially offset by war and other political-related exposures. As an industry, we are in a better position with regards to traditional risks, but there is a renewed focus on geopolitical risks,” says Captain Rahul Khanna, Global Head of Marine Risk Consulting, Allianz Commercial.
US-China trade conflict and growing shadow fleet bring uncertainty and challenges China has been the biggest target of the protectionist measures of the US administration with tariffs reaching 145%, before both countries agreed to reduce them for 90 days. Developments have significantly impacted global maritime trade with approximately 18% of it subject to tariffs as of mid-April 2025, compared with 4% in early March, and dramatic declines in shipments reported in the immediate aftermath of the “Liberation Day” announcements. While the future of US trade-focused policies remains uncertain, another phenomenon is posing an increasing challenge for the maritime and insurance industries: the shadow fleet. Since the start of the war in Ukraine, the size of the shadow fleet has grown significantly. Today, around 17%of the world tanker fleet is thought to belong to the shadow fleet: estimates indicate there are close to 600 tankers trading Russian oil alone. Shadow fleet vessels have been involved in tens of incidents around the world including fires, collisions and oil spills.
“Although recent sanctions are making it harder for these vessels to trade, the shadow fleet continues to pose a serious risk to maritime safety and the environment, as many are likely to be older vessels that are poorly maintained and inadequately insured. In case of an oil spill involving a shadow fleet tanker, cleanup costs could be as much as US$1.6bn,” says Justus Heinrich, Global Product Leader, Marine Hull, Allianz Commercial.
Red Sea rerouting: older vessels and riskier routes in addition to higher costs With ongoing geopolitical volatility in the Middle East, many ship operators have rerouted vessels around the Cape of Good Hope, adding time and cost to transits between Asia and Europe. For example, this rerouting adds around $1mn in costs and at least 10 days to a typical transit between China and Europe. According to estimates, cargo volumes in the strait had fallen by two-thirds by September 2024, with rerouting costing the global economy some US$200bn that year. The quality and safety of vessels may also be impacted as a result of this rerouting.
“With container capacity under pressure, some shipowners have gone out to the market to meet supply, purchasing tonnage that is often older and second best. This has helped push up values and seen vessels scheduled for scrap and older tonnage stay in the market longer. The concern is that when called back into service, these vessels may not be in the best state to operate safely on longer sea routes and in rough weather,” says Captain Nitin Chopra, Senior Marine Risk Consultant, Allianz Commercial Asia.
Fires and mis-declared cargo remain a top concern for large vessels Large vessel fires are still a major concern for hull and cargo insurers. There were seven total losses reported across all vessel types during 2024, the same number as a year earlier. The number of incidents overall was up year-on-year to a decade high of 250, again across all vessel types. Around 30% of these fire incidents occurred on either container, cargo or roll-on roll-off vessels (ro-ros) (69). More than 100 total losses of vessels have been caused by fires in the past decade. Efforts to mitigate these risks are underway, with regulatory changes and technological advancements aimed at addressing mis-declared cargo, a primary contributor to such fires. This is critical as the electrification of the global economy poses further challenges given the growing number of lithium-ion batteries and battery energy storage systems being transported.
“There is little doubt the shipping industry is becoming more resilient against the risks associated with large vessels, although we can by no means say they are under control. However, only 27 total losses during 2024 underlines the positive trend. To put this into perspective: there are over 100,000 ships (100GT+) in the global fleet. However, uncertainty and multiple risks persist. Cyber-attacks and GPS interferences are increasing. Ceasefires have raised hopes, but the Red Sea security threat and supply chain disruption will likely remain. Meanwhile, the green transition requires much work. The coming years will be decisive and will determine the path of the sector and global trade,” explains Captain Rahul Khanna, Global Head of Marine Risk Consulting, Allianz Commercial.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Allianz Commercial
Allianz Commercial is the center of expertise and global line of Allianz Group for insuring mid-sized businesses, large enterprises and specialist risks. Among our customers are the world’s largest consumer brands, financial institutions and industry players, the global aviation and shipping industry as well as family-owned and medium enterprises which are the backbone of the economy. We also cover unique risks such as offshore wind parks, infrastructure projects or film productions. Powered by the employees, financial strength, and network of the world’s #1 insurance brand, we work together to help our customers prepare for what’s ahead: They trust us in providing a wide range of traditional and alternative risk transfer solutions, outstanding risk consulting and Multinational services as well as seamless claims handling. Allianz Commercial brings together the large corporate insurance business of Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS) and the commercial insurance business of national Allianz Property & Casualty entities serving mid-sized companies. We are present in over 200 countries and territories either through our own teams or the Allianz Group network and partners. In 2024, the integrated business of Allianz Commercial generated around €18 billion in gross premium globally. https://commercial.allianz.com/
JAKARTA, Indonesia, May 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — PT PLN (Persero) strengthens its commitment to accelerating the energy transition through strategic collaboration with green technology (greentech) startups in Indonesia. This initiative was realized through the PLN Startup Day 2025, themed Powering Partnership: Uniting Forces for Sustainable Energy, held at PLN’s Headquarters in Jakarta on Wednesday (May 21).
PLN Startup Day 2025 – PLN, government representatives, and greentech startups unite in Jakarta to sign strategic collaborations supporting Indonesia’s energy transition.
The IndonesianDirector General of Digital Infrastructure at the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs, Wayan Toni Supriyanto, expressed his appreciation for PLN’s initiative, which aligns with the government’s vision to build an inclusive and sustainable digital ecosystem.
“PLN plays a strategic role in realizing this vision, particularly in integrating digital innovation into energy solutions. Programs such as PLN Connext and events like PLN Startup Day are concrete proof that collaboration between the government, state-owned enterprises, and the innovation sector can address energy challenges,” Wayan stated.
PLN President Director, Darmawan Prasodjo, emphasized that PLN Startup Day 2025 is more than just an annual agenda—it is a strategic platform for creating future solutions through tangible collaboration with innovators.
“Indonesia needs innovation to achieve its energy transition and reach Net Zero Emissions by 2060. This is where startups—especially greentech startups—play a crucial role in developing technological innovations to tackle various challenges in the energy sector,” said Darmawan.
This year, PLN has successfully engaged 63 energy startups. Of these, 20 startups have participated in the incubation program, 20 startups have signed Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) through the PLN Connext program, and 16 startups have established concrete collaborations with PLN in various strategic programs.
PLN Director of Corporate Planning and Business Development, Hartanto Wibowo, explained that PLN is developing a startup ecosystem through two main programs. First, collaboration with later-stage startups, focusing on innovative solutions directly integrated into the national energy system. Second, an incubation program for early-stage startups, providing mentoring, training, and business exploration to support long-term growth and impact.
“Since 2023, through PLN Connext, we have built a structured and tangible energy startup ecosystem. We believe startups are catalysts for change because of their agility, creativity, and high level of innovation,” said Hartanto.
As part of strengthening synergies with the government, PLN signed two strategic collaborations during the event. First, with the Ministry of Communication and Digital Affairs, to promote the digital ecosystem by empowering startup products and services. Second, with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, and Technology, to strengthen research and development collaboration in the electricity sector.
Additionally, PLN Group signed strategic partnerships with several selected startups, covering technology advancements such as Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), carbon capture technology, and electric vehicle solutions.
Some of these collaborations include:
PLN Icon Plus with startups Magnar and Soca.AI for IoT and AI solutions.
PLN Enjiniring with TechnoGIS in AI applications for engineering.
PLN Nusadaya with Algatek for carbon capture technology.
PLN Electricity Services with Starvo in operation and maintenance of EV charging stations (SPKLU).
PLN Haleyora Powerindo with Charged, advancing electric vehicle fleets.
“We hope that through this collaboration, Indonesian energy startups will reach a global level and potentially become unicorns valued at over USD 1 billion, comparable to leading energy startups worldwide,” Hartanto concluded.
Samsung puts customers’ lifestyles and viewing experience front and centre with its 2025 TV lineup, including Neo QLED 8K, Neo QLED 4K, OLED, and Lifestyle TVs.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 May 2025 –Samsung Electronics Singapore unveiled its highly anticipated 2025 lineup of AI-powered TVs and soundbars at the Unbox & Discover event. Redefining home entertainment, the new range introduces the groundbreaking Samsung Vision AI. This transforms the way users interact with their screens, delivering deeply personalised and immersive experiences, and placing the TV at the heart of the connected smart home.
The 2025 lineup is headlined by the flagship Samsung Neo QLED 8K and Samsung Neo QLED 4K TV series. These new offerings bring stunning visuals and immersive sound, and are the first to feature Samsung Vision AI1 with smarter, adaptive features that reimagine what Samsung TVs can do.
Samsung Neo QLED 8K QN990F is Samsung’s most advanced TV to date.
“At Samsung, we believe that the best innovations come from truly listening to our customers and understanding how they live their lives. We know that our consumers in Singapore value technology that feels more personal and intuitive. That is exactly what we set out to do with our 2025 lineup of AI-powered TVs,” said Patrick Khor, Head of Department, TV & Audio, Samsung Singapore.“Powered by our most advanced processors and Samsung Vision AI, our TVs have now become intelligent companions that adapt and learn your preferences, suggest content that matches your mood, while seamlessly connecting your smart home through SmartThings. Through technology, we are creating experiences that enrich the moments that matter most to families in Singapore.”
Samsung Vision AI Enabling Smarter, More Personal Screen Experiences Samsung Vision AI represents the next step in Samsung’s journey to deliver intelligent, intuitive, and seamless screen experiences, and will be integrated across the 2025 range of Neo QLED, QLED, OLED, and The Frame models.
Samsung Neo QLED 4K QN90F continues to offer stellar viewing experience enhanced by AI and Glare-Free technology.
With the ability to make your Samsung TV aware of its surroundings, adaptive to user preferences and autonomous in delivering intuitive features, Samsung Vision AI transforms the brand’s 2025 AI TVs into smart companions that enhance entertainment, simplify interactions, and seamlessly integrate into connected lifestyles.
Samsung OLED S95F delivers impressive colour contrast and accuracy with our brightest-ever OLED screen.
At the core of Samsung Vision AI are intelligent and personalised features which redefine how users interact with their screen and engage more deeply with their favourite content. Generative Wallpaper2 transforms screens into dynamic, personalised art canvases, allowing users to make images that perfectly match their taste or occasion. Own a Galaxy Watch? Universal Gestures3 lets you control your TV through your smartwatch – with simple hand motions like rotating the watch bezel to scroll the screen or making a fist to return to a previous menu.
The Frame Pro delivers even brighter and sharper visuals with Neo QLED technology.
Looking beyond personalisation, Samsung’s 2025 AI TVs come equipped with a built-in SmartThings Hub, transforming the TV into a central hub for smarter living through integration with the SmartThings ecosystem, as well as new SmartThings4 features that simplify and enhance daily life.
SmartThings Energy offers insights into energy consumption patterns, promoting efficient energy use throughout the home.
Family Care5 enhances comfort by automatically adjusting room settings, like dimming the lights when a child falls asleep, while providing real-time updates and recorded events through TVs.
With Pet Care6, potentially use your TV as a pet-sitting assistant when you are outside. Your TV can detect noises like barking through its microphone, and then automatically turn on your pet’s favourite content.
Home Insights4provides notifications from your connected smart devices right on screen, including a 3D Map View that shows information and details of your entire smart home so that you can monitor and manage directly from the TV.
All your favourite apps, services and the latest Samsung Vision AI features are available through One UI Tizen – available now on all of Samsung’s 2025 range of Neo QLED, QLED, OLED, and The Frame models. One UI Tizen introduces a fresh, clean interface that mirrors what you will find on many Galaxy smartphones, tablets, and watches. It also allows your household to create separate profiles and receive curated recommendations tailored to their preferences. Samsung is now offering up to seven years7 of OS upgrades; this extends the longevity of each device, keeping it up to date with the latest features, security enhancements, and performance improvements, so that users’ investments in Samsung Vision AI-powered TVs are truly future proof.
Best paired with the Samsung 2025 TV line-up, the HW-Q990F and HW-QS700F offers audio optimisation to enhance the overall home entertainment experience.
Security is crucial for Singapore households today due to the increasing prevalence of cyber threats, and the need to protect sensitive personal information within households. Samsung TVs are protected by Samsung Knox, a comprehensive security platform that safeguards user data and privacy, with high security standards maintained for the benefit of home users. It helps to shield families from malicious threats by protecting sensitive data like passwords8, monitoring connected IoT devices, blocking phishing websites to protect against malicious sites, and enhancing personal information protection through Samsung Knox Vault. Samsung TVs also receive constant security updates, with a dedicated security team providing regular updates that help keep your TV safe, for at least 3 years from TV launch9, ensuring your family’s digital safety evolves with emerging threats.
Samsung continues to shape how people experience art at home by expanding access to the Samsung Art Store10, a premium digital platform for fine art exclusively on Samsung Smart TVs. For the first time, the Samsung Art Store will be available on 2025 Samsung Neo QLED 8K, Neo QLED 4K, and QLED models11, as well as on The Frame and MICRO LED series, making art from the world’s leading artists, museums, and galleries more accessible that ever. The Samsung Art Store offers access to a vast catalogue of over 3,000 curated works from prestigious global partners, including MoMA and the estates of Magritte and Basquiat.
Samsung 2025 TV lineup: Exceptional advancements, made possible with AI. Samsung Vision AI also delivers exceptional advancements in picture and sound quality, making every on-screen moment captivating. On-device AI picture and sound technologies analyse content and environmental factors in real time, dynamically adjusting visuals and audio for an optimised experience.
The flagship Neo QLED 8K QN990F is Samsung’s most advanced TV to date, powered by the NQ8 AI Gen3 Pro processor12, leverages a suite of on-device AI features to enhance picture quality, sound clarity and overall viewing experience.
8K AI Upscaling Pro13 elevates lower-resolution content up to stunning 8K quality, ensuring incredible detail and clarity in every frame. Motion Xcelerator 240Hz14 ensures blazing fast motion clarity for gaming and sports, while AI Motion Enhancer Pro15 smooths the motion of fast-moving visuals and text, so you can always keep your eye on the ball. Dedicated top-channel speakers power Dolby Atmos sound, while Object Tracking Sound Pro16 provides dynamic, realistic audio that follows the movements on screen – like creepy footsteps in a horror movie or cars zooming around a track.
The QN990F also integrates our award-winning Glare-Free technology, offering stunning 8K visuals across dark and bright rooms. Plus, the all-new Wireless One Connect Box17 is a game changer for cable management, offering a wireless connection between the TV and the external box up to 30 feet away., allowing for cleaner installations and more flexible room setups.
The Samsung 2025 Neo QLED 4K lineup is our most expansive yet, including four model series (QN90F, QN85F, QN80F,and QN70F), all featuring Quantum Matrix Mini LEDsfor stellar brightness and accurate colour across every scene.
The flagship QN90F features the upgraded NQ4 AI Gen3 Processor18, which offers improved picture and sound quality. The processor upscales older content into 4K resolution, while Neo Quantum HDR+19 analyses each scene to boost brightness and make visuals appear even more realistic. The QN90F also comes with Glare-Free technology, offering greater flexibility for placement of the TV regardless of lighting conditions at home. Motion Xcelerator 165Hz20 ensures ultra-smooth motion of action-packed content.
Our OLED lineup is also refreshed with the S95F series, featuring OLED Glare-Free technology that eliminates glare and reflections from sunlight or ambient lighting, while delivering impressive colour contrast and accuracy OLEDs are known for. The S95F boasts our brightest-ever OLED screen and OLED HDR Pro – delivering vibrant, full-screen brightness, deep blacks, and Pantone®-validated colours. Powered by the powerful NQ4 AI Gen3 Processor21 that optimises contrast, brightness, depth and colour across every scene, the TV can also upscale lower resolution content into brilliant 4K visuals. For gamers, Motion Xcelerator 165Hz14 ensures smooth motion and blazing fast speeds from even the most demanding games. Together, these upgrades make the S95F our best OLED yet, offering a cinematic picture without distractions.
A New Vision of Art: Introducing the Frame Pro Samsung is strengthening its commitment to seamlessly blending art and technology with the launch of The Frame Pro, a new addition to the iconic Frame lineup. The Frame Pro enhances the art and entertainment experience with advanced Neo QLED picture quality that delivers brighter colours, sharper contrasts, and improved local dimming for deeper blacks. Powered by the NQ4 Gen3 AI Processor, The Frame Pro offers improved picture quality across your favourite artwork and shows. It also comes with the innovative Wireless One Connect, allowing for more flexible installations that blend in seamlessly with your environment.
A New Dimension of Sound with AI To accompany the stunning 2025 AI TV lineup, Samsung has introduced a new range of soundbars that combine state-of-the-art hardware with intelligent AI-driven features, designed to elevate home entertainment with unparalleled sound.
As the successor to the highly acclaimed HW-Q990D, the HW-Q990F takes home audio to new heights. It features newly engineered dual active subwoofers that deliver robust bass and ultra-low-frequency precision. Plus, a new cube design reduces the subwoofers to half the size of its predecessor, minimising resonance and blending flawlessly into modern interiors with a refined serrated finish.
The HW-Q990F delivers advanced AI-driven sound optimization through features such as Dynamic Bass Control which enhances clarity in low-frequency ranges by utilizing non-linear bass management for balanced and distortion-free sound. Q-Symphony immerses the user in 3D surround sound by detecting the position of wireless speakers like the Music Frame and automatically optimising audio effects based on its distance and angle. In this mode, the HW-Q990F uses the Samsung TV’s Neural Processing Unit (NPU) to make dialogue clearer and to deliver more immersive, synchronised audio. Active Voice Amplifier Pro provides real-time content analysis that reduces background noise and emphasises dialogue for an enhanced viewing experience.
The HW-QS700F offers even more versatility in home audio with its sleek design and innovative gyro-sensor technology. Suitable for both wall-mounted and tabletop setups, this soundbar adapts to the user’s space. Its built-in gyro-sensor can automatically detect whether it is positioned vertically or horizontally, fine-tuning the audio output to ensure optimal clarity and immersive sound in any configuration.
For more information about the 2025 TV and sound systems line-up, please visit www.samsung.com/sg.
[1] Samsung Vision Al is only available on 2025 Neo QLED 8K, Neo QLED, OLED, QLED and The Frame TV models. Samsung Vision Al features vary by TV model. (Excludes Crystal UHD, FHD and HD TV models).
[2] Generative Wallpaper: The number of generation attempts allowed per day may be limited. The image depicted on the TV screen is AI-generated images created through the Generative Wallpaper function. This feature is not supported on OLED models. This feature is not supported in China.
[3] Requires Galaxy Watch 4 and higher / Wear OS 5 and higher.
[4] SmartThings: Available technology, functions and features may vary by country, service provider, network environment or product, and are subject to change without notice. Requires a Wi-Fi, Bluetooth or other wireless network connection and login to Samsung account. Connected devices are sold separately. UI is subject to change without prior notice.
[5] Family Care: Real-time streaming on mobile is supported on Android OS 11.0 and higher versions or iOS 16.0 and higher versions, and is available on 2025 Samsung TVs and later models. It only works when the TV is turned off. Real-time streaming on TV is also supported. Camera is sold separately.
[6] Pet Care: Real-time streaming on mobile devices is supported on Android OS 11.0 and higher versions or iOS 16.0 and higher versions, and is available on 2025 Samsung TVs and later models. It only works when the TV is turned off. TV must be connected to a power source to use this feature. TV and mobile device must be connected to SmartThings to send and receive notifications. Real-time streaming is not supported on TV. Camera is sold separately.
[7] Samsung Account required for network-based smart services, including streaming apps and other smart features. Computer, mobile or other device may be necessary to create/log in to Samsung Account (free to download and create). Without Account log in, only external device connections (e.g., via HDMI) and terrestrial/over-the-air TV (only for TVs with tuners) available. One UI Tizen OS updates are available for up to 7 years from the product release year starting in 2023. Availability, features, contents, apps and services are subject to change without notice and may vary by product and model. OS updates does not cover hardware-related performance, features or durability.
[8] Samsung Knox Security: Personal data includes directly input PIN-codes and passwords, and IoT device information shared through the SmartThings app. The latest software is required.
[9] Samsung Knox Security: Samsung Knox Security applies to Samsung TVs powered by Tizen®, launched since 2015. Latest software update is required.
[10] Fees apply to Art Store subscription service. Art pieces in the Art Store are subject to change without prior notice.
[11] Available models may vary by country.
[12] Utilises AI Based formulas to upscale to 8K resolution. Resulting picture may vary based on source content.
[13] Utilises AI Based formulas to upscale to 8K resolution. Resulting picture may vary based on source content.
[14] 4K 240Hz is only available with PC connected games that support such specifications (PC graphic card required). Performance may vary.
[15] Utilises AI-based formulas.
[16] Utilises AI-based formulas.
[17] TV must be connected wirelessly for full TV functionality. Wireless connection may be affected by surrounding environment, may not connect when enclosed or blocked by metal (e.g., from inside a metal cabinet) or by other physical objects such as walls. TV and Wireless One Connect require separate power cord connections.
[18] Utilises AI Based formulas to upscale to 4K resolution. Resulting picture may vary based on source content.
[19] Compared to Neo Quantum HDR, 50″ & 43″ QN90 have Neo Quantum HDR.
[20] 4K 165Hz is only available with PC connected games that support such specifications (PC graphic card required). Performance may vary. 115″ QN90 has Motion Xcelerator 144Hz.
[21] Utilises AI-Based formulas to upscale to 4K resolution. Resulting picture may vary based on source content.
[22] According to market research firm Omdia, Samsung achieved a 28.3% market share in the global TV market in 2024, maintaining the number one ranking it has held since 2006.
[23] Purchase of different products entitles you to different gifts.
[24] While stocks last. Terms & conditions apply.
[25] Trade-up value dependent on 2025 TV model selected. While stocks last. Terms & conditions apply.
[26] Free 5 months subscription to the Art Store is only applicable to the Frame Pro 75″ or 85″.
[27] Promotion applies to HW-Q990F/HW-Q800F / HW-QS700F only.
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The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, smartphones, wearable devices, tablets, home appliances, network systems, and memory, system LSI, foundry and LED solutions, and delivering a seamless connected experience through its SmartThings ecosystem and open collaboration with partners. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com.