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Hong Kong Successfully Hosts the 18th World Congress of Chinese Medicine for the First Time

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 6 December 2021 – The 18th World Congress of Chinese Medicine (WCCM), one of the world’s largest academic events in the field of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), was successfully held in Hong Kong for the first time at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre on 4 December 2021.

Officiating guests including: the Hon Mrs. Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the People’s Republic of China (6th from left), Mr. C Y Leung, GBM, GBS, JP, Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, the People’s Republic of China (4th from right), Mr. Tan Tieniu, Vice Director of Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong S.A.R. (4th from left), Professor Sophia Chan Siu-chee, JP, Secretary for Food and Health of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, The People’s Republic of China (3rd from right), Dr. Chui Tak-yi, JP, Under Secretary for Food and Health of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, The People’s Republic of China (3rd from left), Dr. Ronald Lam, JP, Director of Health of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, The People’s Republic of China (2nd from left), Dr. Margaret Chan Fung Fu-chun, former Director-General of the World Health Organization (2nd from right), Ms. Feng Jiu, Permanent President of Hong Kong Registered Chinese Medicine Practitioners Association (5th from left), Mr. Tommy Li Ying-sang, Chairman of the Federation of the Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Practitioners and Chinese Medicine Traders Association (1st from right), and Professor Lyu Aiping, Dean of School of Chinese Medicine, Hong Kong Baptist University (1st from left) joined hands to kick off The 18th World Congress of Chinese Medicine.

The 18th World Congress of Chinese Medicine

 

Thanks to the bidding efforts of the Hong Kong Registered Chinese Medicine Practitioners Association, which is a member of the Hong Kong Convention Ambassador (HKCA) programme, initiated by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB), in collaboration with the World Federation of Chinese Medicine Societies (WFCMS), the hybrid event attracted more than 2,000 TCM academics and experts, generated over 3.8 million views from over 60 countries and regions.  

 

As physical gatherings resumed for the first time since the pandemic started, WCCM provided a platform for participants to engage in meaningful dialogue, covering TCM practices, benefits, opportunities and challenges, and the development potential of TCM.

 

Mr. Ma Jianzhong, President of WFCMS, said, “We are pleased to host this edition of WCCM in Hong Kong for the first time. Embracing Chinese philosophy and culture, Hong Kong is the ideal place for academic and cultural exchanges to explore the way forward for furthering the global development of TCM, and its role in combating the pandemic through collaboration between practitioners and public sectors.”

 

Mr. Sang Binsheng, Vice President and Secretary General of WFCMS added, “Hong Kong is renowned for being the ‘World’s Meeting Place’ thanks to its globally accessible and convenient transport network, large-scale world-class venues, facilities and professional services. We look forward to gathering again in Hong Kong and navigating the future of TCM development together.”

 

With its unrivalled fundamentals, Hong Kong is the core international city in the Greater Bay Area, a super-connector in the Belt and Road Initiative, and the ideal platform to promote TCM on the global stage.

 

HKTB Executive Director Mr Dane Cheng said, “Hong Kong enjoys unique geographical and cultural advantages, and is the ideal destination for international conventions. Many such events have taken place recently, demonstrating Hong Kong’s ability to host large-scale global events safely and efficiently. Apart from TCM, Hong Kong will continue to leverage the city’s advantages as an East-meets-West showcase to promote the very best of Chinese heritage.”

The congress received extensive support from government and industry bodies. The National Administration of TCM and the Hong Kong Food and Health Bureau acted as advisors, and it was organised by the WFCMS, along with the Hong Kong Registered Chinese Medicine Practitioners Association and the WFCM (Hong Kong) Council Members Association as local hosts.

 

Hong Kong – A World-Class Medical Convention Hub

Hong Kong is a cultural melting pot, bringing together the best that the world has to offer, demonstrating the true definition of ‘East meets West’, even in the field of medicine. With its high global professional standing in medical science, Hong Kong plays a bridging role to contribute to the further development of TCM, as well as many Western medical disciplines.

 

This winter, the city will also play host to key medical conventions, including the International Annual Congress of the Endoscopic and Laparoscopic Surgeons of Asia (ELSA) 2021, and the Hong Kong International Dental Expo and Symposium (HKIDEAS) 2021, both of which are led by Convention Ambassadors of the two organisations under the HKCA programme.

About the Hong Kong Convention Ambassador (HKCA) programme

Initiated by the HKTB, the HKCA programme brings together distinguished leaders from business and professional bodies to make Hong Kong the premier choice for regional and global meetings, conventions and exhibitions. HKTB provides comprehensive professional support and services to HKCAs, from event planning, bidding and preparation to execution. For more details, visit www.mehongkong.com/hkca.

#HongKongConventionAmbassador

Man Charged for Theft of Fencing Along Laos-China Railway

Fencing along the Laos-China Railway
Fencing along the Laos-China Railway.


A man in Vientiane Capital has been formally charged by police for the theft of fencing along the Laos-China Railway.

Laos Confirms 889 New Cases of Covid-19

Savannakhet Covid-19 Update

Laos has recorded 889 cases of Covid-19 across the country today, with three new deaths.

Plant-based star product OmniPork Luncheon officially lands in 7-Elevens across East China

SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach – 6 December 2021 – OmniFoods announces one of their most sought-after products, the OmniPork Luncheon, will be available for purchase in over 100 7-Eleven stores across East China, and will soon be available in over 200 stores. Consumers can now purchase the plant-based ingredient and enjoy it in the comforts of home, a milestone that marks the ever-growing accessibility of plant-based diets.

Compared to traditional canned luncheon meat, OmniPork Luncheon’s calories and total fat content are lower, transfer this Asian-favourite to a much healthier option.

The Asian-favourite luncheon meat is well-loved for its convenience and deliciousness, yet many consumers are worried about the effects of proceesed meat on health. OmniPork Luncheon, the plant-based luncheon by OmniFoods, contains 0mg cholesterol, high in protein, is a source of dietary fibre, potassium and calcium. Compared to traditional canned luncheon meat, OmniPork Luncheon’s calories and total fat content are 40% and 49% lower respectively, and sodium content is 62% lower. OmniPork Luncheon is cruelty-free, non-GMO, contains no added hormones, antibiotics and MSG. More importantly, OmniPork Luncheon does not contain any carcinogenic nitrates or preservatives. Simply pan-fry it straight from the freezer for two minutes on each side, anyone can cook it with ease.

In 2021, OmniPork Luncheon has received two major awards in China and internationally, including Best Plant-based Food in the FBIF’s Wow Foods Awards, and Great Taste Award by the most prominent food award in the UK. Such encouraging news are testaments to OmniPork Luncheon’s innovativity, quality and taste. OmniPork Luncheon is available for ¥33/pack (240g).

About OmniFoods

OmniFoods, the food innovation arm under Green Monday Holdings, is a global leading plant-based food company. OmniFoods’ range of alternative protein products includes the OmniPork series, OmniSeafood series and OmniEat series. With R&D in Canada and distribution network in over 20 markets, OmniFoods is partner to many of the world’s top restaurants and retail chains.

#OmniFoods

Spackman Entertainment Group Successfully Completes the Disposal of Zip Cinema Co., Ltd. for S$19.8 Million

  • Following the disposal, the Group intends to strategically diversify into the production and financing of Korean drama and US movies

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 6 December 2021 – Spackman Entertainment Group Limited (the “Group“), one of Korea’s leading entertainment production groups, wishes to announce that it has successfully completed the disposal of its subsidiary Zip Cinema Co., Ltd. for S$19.8 million (the “Disposal“).

Following the Disposal, the Group intends to strategically diversify into the production and financing of Korean drama and US movies, which are potentially more profitable than Korean films due to a wider international audience base.

Recent well-known Korean drama productions such as Netflix’s most-watched show ever[1], SQUID GAME (2021) starring rising international Korean star Wi Ha-jun of the Group’s associated company Spackman Media Group Limited (“SMGL“), MY NAME (2021) which is gaining traction following the success of SQUID GAME, and Netflix’s latest Korean blockbuster hit show HELLBOUND (2021), serve as exemplary projects that attract huge viewership not only in the US, but globally. 

In terms of the North American film sector, demand for Korean productions has been burgeoning recently. Oscar-winning Korean film PARASITE (2019) and Oscar-nominated Korean film MINARI (2020) are examples of critically acclaimed films that have captured the hearts of US film critics and international audiences.

Mr. Na Kyoungwon, Executive Director, Chief Operating Officer and President of the Group, said, “Ever since the beginning of the pandemic, there have been many significant changes and developments in regards to how, where and who consumes Korean entertainment content. Korean content is increasingly becoming global, and we feel the need to make significant changes in our overall business model in order to capitalize on this changing landscape. The sale of one of our main production labels and the new focus on K-dramas and international films signal a new start for our Group.”

Leveraging on the popularity and globalization of Korean content, the Disposal will provide the Group with the capital support to look for opportunities to develop, produce and invest into film and drama projects targeted at international audiences.



[1] Yonhap News Agency, ‘Squid Game’ becomes most-watched Netflix show with record 1.65 bln hours, https://en.yna.co.kr/view/AEN20211117004700315?section=news, 17 November 2021

About Spackman Entertainment Group Limited

Spackman Entertainment Group Limited (“SEGL” or the “Company“), and together with its subsidiaries, (the “Group“), founded in 2011 by Charles Spackman, is one of Korea’s leading entertainment production groups. SEGL is primarily engaged in the independent development, production, presentation, and financing of theatrical motion pictures in Korea. According to Variety, Korea was the world’s fourth largest box office market in 2019, behind only North America, China and Japan.

The Group also invests into and produces Korean television dramas. In addition to our content business, we also own equity stakes in entertainment-related companies and film funds that can financially and strategically complement our existing core operations. SEGL is listed on the Catalist of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited under the ticker 40E.

Production Labels

SEGL owns Novus Mediacorp Co., Ltd. (“Novus Mediacorp“), an investor, presenter, and/or post-theatrical distributor for a total of 79 films (58 Korean and 21 foreign) including ROSE OF BETRAYAL, THE OUTLAWS and SECRETLY, GREATLY, which was one of the biggest box office hits of 2013 starring Kim Soo-hyun of MY LOVE FROM THE STARS, as well as FRIEND 2: THE GREAT LEGACY. In 2012, Novus Mediacorp was also the post-theatrical rights distributor of ALL ABOUT MY WIFE, a top-grossing romantic comedy produced by Zip Cinema. In 2018, THE OUTLAWS, co-presented by Novus Mediacorp broke the all-time highest Video On Demand (“VOD“) sales records in Korea. For more information on Novus Mediacorp, do visit http://novusmediacorp.com.

The Company owns a 100% equity interest in Simplex Films Limited (“Simplex Films“) which is an early stage film production firm. The maiden film of Simplex Films, JESTERS: THE GAME CHANGERS (2019), was released in Korea on 21 August 2019. Simplex Films has several line-up of films including HURRICANE BROTHERS (working title).


The Company owns a 100% equity interest in Take Pictures Pte. Ltd. (“Take Pictures“) which produced STONE SKIPPING (2020) and THE BOX (2021), and shall release GUARDIAN (working title) in 2021 tentatively.


The Company owns a 100% equity interest in Greenlight Content Limited (“Greenlight Content“) which is mainly involved in the business of investing into dramas and movies, as well as providing consulting services for the production of Korean content. Through the acquisition of Greenlight Content, the Group’s first co-produced drama, MY SECRET TERRIUS, starring top Korean star, So Ji Sub, achieved #1 in drama viewership ratings for its time slot and recorded double digits for its highest viewership ratings. Greenlight Content was one of the main investors of MY SECRET TERRIUS.


The Company owns a 20% equity interest in The Makers Studio Co. Ltd., which plans to produce and release four upcoming films, the first of which will be THE ISLAND OF THE GHOST’S WAIL, a comedy horror film.

Our films are theatrically distributed and released in Korea and overseas markets, as well as for subsequent post-theatrical worldwide release in other forms of media, including online streaming, cable TV, broadcast TV, IPTV, video-on-demand, and home video/DVD, etc. We release all of our motion pictures into wide-theatrical exhibition initially in Korea, and then in overseas and ancillary markets.

Talent Representation

The Company holds an effective shareholding interest of 43.88% in Spackman Media Group Limited (“SMGL“). SMGL, a company incorporated in Hong Kong, together with its subsidiaries, is collectively one of the largest entertainment talent agencies in Korea in terms of the number of artists under management, including some of the top names in the Korean entertainment industry. SMGL operates its talent management business through renowned agencies such as MSteam Entertainment Co., Ltd. (Son Ye-jin, Lee Min-jung, Ko Sung-hee), UAA&CO Inc. (Song Hye-kyo, Yoo Ah-in, Park Hyung-sik), Fiftyone K Inc. (So Ji Sub, Ok Taec-yeon), SBD Entertainment Inc. (Son Suk-ku), and Kook Entertainment Co., Ltd. Through these full-service talent agencies in Korea, SMGL represents and guides the professional careers of a leading roster of award-winning actors/actresses in the practice areas of motion pictures, television, commercial endorsements, and branded entertainment. SMGL leverages its unparalleled portfolio of artists as a platform to develop, produce, finance and own the highest quality of entertainment content projects, including theatrical motion pictures, variety shows and TV dramas. This platform also creates and derives opportunities for SMGL to make strategic investments in development stage businesses that can collaborate with SMGL artists. SMGL is an associated company of the Company.

The Company owns a 100% equity interest in Constellation Agency Pte. Ltd. (“Constellation Agency“). Constellation Agency, which owns The P Factory Co., Ltd. (“The P Factory“) and Platform Media Group Co., Ltd. (“PMG“), is primarily involved in the business of overseas agency for Korean artists venturing into the overseas market. The P Factory is an innovative marketing solutions provider specializing in event and branded content production. PMG is a talent management agency which represents and manages the careers of major artists in film, television, commercial endorsements and branded entertainment.

Strategic Businesses

The Company owns a 100% equity interest in Frame Pictures Co., Ltd. (“Frame Pictures“). Frame Pictures is a leader in the movie/drama equipment leasing business in Korea. Established in 2014, Frame Pictures has worked with over 25 top

directors and provided the camera and lighting equipment some of Korea’s most notable drama and movie projects including ITAEWON CLASS (2020), HOW TO BUY A FRIEND (2020), KIM JI-YOUNG, BORN 1982 (2019), FOUR MEN (2019) and ASADAL CHRONICLES (2019).

We also operate a café-lounge called Upper West, in the Gangnam district of Seoul and own a professional photography studio, noon pictures Co., Ltd.

For more details, do visit http://www.spackmanentertainmentgroup.com/

#SpackmanEntertainmentGroup

Arlo Surpasses 1 million Paid Accounts

Milestone Underscored by Innovation and an Unwavering Commitment to Customer Needs

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 6 December 2021 – Arlo Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: ARLO), a leading smart home security brand, today announced its AI-powered subscription service has surpassed 1 million paid accounts. The milestone is a testament to the brand’s ongoing smart home security innovations, robust ecosystem of award-winning hardware, software and services, and ability to provide consumers with added peace of mind by giving them the power to protect their homes and families.

 

From comprehensive, industry-first AI person, package, animal and vehicle detection, to potentially life-saving features like Smoke and CO Alarm detection, Arlo enables users to easily monitor and protect loved ones, properties and more. The service ensures users are always aware so they can react quickly with the help of innovative tools designed for immediate action.

 

“The acceleration of our subscriber base continues with paid accounts nearly doubling since March 2021,” said Brad Little, Vice President & Managing Director APAC. “Achieving this milestone faster than forecasted demonstrates Arlo’s ability to provide trusted smart home security solutions that address fundamental customer needs. The recent launch of Arlo Secure, shows our focus on innovation remains as we create value for our service offerings. We are proud to play such an important role in our customers’ lives.”

 

Arlo Secure subscription plans represent the brand’s commitment to interactive alerts and access to priority support all at a greater value. Plans currently start at $4.49 SGD per month for single camera or $13.99 SGD per month to support unlimited security devices in the home. For those who want even greater peace of mind, Arlo Secure Plus gives users access to 4K video recordings cloud storage for supported devices for $21.99 SGD per month for unlimited camera support. 

 

Features of Arlo Secure subscriptions include: 

  • 2K (Arlo Secure) and 4K (Arlo Secure Plus) Cloud-based Video Recording – View 30 days of recordings securely stored on Arlo’s SmartCloud platform for ultimate peace of mind and protection even if the device is damaged or stolen in a break-in, storm or other physical incident. 
  • Unlimited Cameras – Users can enjoy Arlo Secure service for all cameras in their home with one all-encompassing plan. Add new Arlo cameras for no additional charge.
  • Advanced Object Detection – Arlo processes and filters 50 million events each day through advanced object detection backed by visual artificial intelligence, allowing for better recognition of people, packages, vehicles, and animals to add key context to notifications and reduce unwanted alerts.
  • Smart Interactive Notifications – Users can take quicker action by responding to rich notifications or viewing an animated preview of a notification video through the lock screen on their smartphone or other smart device.
  • Smoke and CO Alarm Detection – Get notified when the camera hears a smoke or CO alarm triggered. 
  • Cloud-based Activity Zones – Users can reduce unwanted notifications by highlighting specific areas on their property where they want motion to be detected. 
  • Call a Friend – Customers can instantly call a friend through the Arlo App from their notification screen with one tap. 
  • 24/7 Priority Support – Subscribers get priority technical support through the in-app Help Centre with omni-channel access to phone, chat, Community, or self-help articles.

 

All Arlo hardware purchases ship with a complimentary three-month trial of Arlo Secure Plus. For more information on the full range of Arlo smart home security products and services, visit www.arlo.com/asia.

 

About Arlo Technologies, Inc.

Arlo is the award-winning, industry leader that is transforming the way people experience the connected lifestyle. Arlo’s deep expertise in product design, wireless connectivity, cloud infrastructure and cutting-edge AI capabilities focuses on delivering a seamless, smart home experience for Arlo users that is easy to setup and interact with every day. The company’s cloud-based platform provides users with visibility, insight and a powerful means to help protect and connect in real-time with the people and things that matter most, from any location with a Wi-Fi or a mobile connection. To date, Arlo has launched several categories of award-winning smart connected devices, including wire-free smart Wi-Fi and 4G-enabled security cameras, audio and video doorbells, and floodlight.

With a mission to bring users peace of mind, Arlo is as passionate about protecting user privacy as it is about safeguarding homes and families. Arlo is committed to supporting industry standards for data protection designed to keep users’ personal information private and in their control. Arlo doesn’t monetise personal data, provides enhanced controls for user data, supports privacy legislation, keeps user data safely secure, and puts security at the forefront of company culture.

Safe Harbor Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995:

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The words “anticipate,” “expect,” “believe,” “will,” “may,” “should,” “estimate,” “project,” “outlook,” “forecast” or other similar words are used to identify such forward-looking statements. However, the absence of these words does not mean that the statements are not forward-looking. The forward-looking statements represent Arlo Technologies, Inc.’s (the “Company” or “Arlo”) expectations or beliefs concerning future events based on information available at the time such statements were made and include statements regarding Arlo cameras, Arlo video doorbells, Arlo Secure, Arlo Secure Plus and future Arlo products. These statements are based on management’s current expectations and are subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including the following: future demand for the Company’s products may be lower than anticipated; consumers may choose not to adopt the Company’s new product offerings or adopt competing products; and product performance may be adversely affected by real world operating conditions. Further, certain forward-looking statements are based on assumptions as to future events that may not prove to be accurate. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may differ materially from what is expressed or forecast in such forward-looking statements. Further information on potential risk factors that could affect Arlo and its business are detailed in the Company’s periodic filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including, but not limited to, those risk factors described in the Company’s most recently filed Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q and subsequent filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Given these circumstances, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Arlo undertakes no obligation to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances after the date hereof or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

#Arlo

BODW CityProg 2021 connects 100+ creative partners; Creating shared values through design for better communities; Making positive social impact by doing “business for good”

  • With HKDC stepping into its 20th anniversary, the 2021 edition of CityProg has taken the theme “20s: Reflect‧Refresh‧Reset”
  • In November and December, CityProg will bring together over 100 partners to spark more than 200 happenings around the city through its three distinct platforms
  • “Design City Hunt” will return; new initiatives “Design !n Action “, “Design Explorer” and “OpenHouse!HK” will be launched

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 6 December 2021 – Organised by Hong Kong Design Centre (HKDC), with Create Hong Kong of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region as the Lead Sponsor, BODW CityProg (CityProg) is a citywide design activation programme that aims to foster exchange and collaborations among creative and design units, businesses and community organisations. Joining forces with different partners, CityProg creates shared values through design, makes the community a better place and creates positive social impact; as well as fosters creativity for our city and economy and nurtures a thriving creative ecosystem in Hong Kong. With HKDC stepping into its 20th anniversary, the 2021 edition of CityProg has taken the theme “20s: Reflect‧Refresh‧Reset”. Bringing together over 100 creative partners to spark more than 200 happenings around the city, CityProg strives to make a positive impact to the community with good design, adhering to a “business for good” concept. As a community extension programme of Business of Design Week (BODW), CityProg’s major happenings take place in November and December near BODW annually, peaking from 27 November to 5 December for the 2021 edition.

 

With three distinct platforms at its core, CityProg 2021 will present 16 one to two-day “Anchor Site Festivals”, 5 “Design EduVation” Programmes focusing on design education, and over 100 “Satellite Events  & Offers”. Last year’s highly acclaimed “Design City Hunt” will also return, offering public the chance to win fabulous prizes by participating in the events and supporting local brands in the neighbourhood.   

 

In addition, CityProg 2021 will launch a new initiative, “Design !n Action”, bringing together local design and creative talents and businesses to contribute their spare time and skills to work with the local community, NGOs and youths to create shared values through design and design thinking, as well as create positive social impact. Through the power of “business for good”, “Design !n Action” will start with nurturing the new generation by organising two programmes, “Design Explorer” and “OpenHouse!HK” which are tailor made for students from local primary and secondary schools, and design department of local tertiary institutions respectively. The programmes are designed to guide the new generation to develop a positive attitude towards the world, work and consumption through an understanding of design thinking and global sustainability trends.

 

Prof. Eric Yim, Chairman of Hong Kong Design Centre said, “we believe that design can spark inspiration and empower people, create positive behavioural changes. Designers are enablers to influence people’s values and aspirations, making a better community. We hope that through the BODW CityProg we can connect creative talents from all walks of life, make the best of their resources and expertise to create shared values, and work together to harness the power of design to bring innovation to the community and improve people’s lives, so that the public can discover more about the possibilities and social value of design, driving the long-term development of Hong Kong’s creative economy.”

 

“NFT x Design: Digital Design Battle” as kick-off event for BODW CityProg 2021

The NFT (Non-Fungible Tokens) scene continues to boom, bringing innovations and new business opportunities. NFTs not only disrupt the art market and commercial brands but also help designers discover new markets, fostering a diversified economy in the creative industries. Hong Kong Design Centre is staging a kick-off event for BODW CityProg 2021 on 10 November 2021, Digital Design Battle at Central Market, exploring the possibilities of NFT x Design.

 

Conducted in a one-on-one format and within a time limit of 20 minutes, each participating local young designer will create a digital work based on a topic provided by the organiser on the spot during the two sessions of Digital Design Battle. The works will then be selected by a professional judging panel, and the works will be available for sale on UCOLLEX’s NFT platform. Audience who stay to cheer for the participating designers will have a chance to receive the winning NFT works for free.

 

5 major events in Sham Shui Po – a creative design hub to promote sustainable development of the local creative economy, cultural conservation and better community living through design

 

Sham Shui Po is being revitalised into one of the cultural and creative landmarks in the city. This year, 5 major events will be held in this creative design hub in November and December, bringing out the three key sustainable development concepts of design as a catalyst for the local creative economy, historical and cultural conservation and good community living.

 

Dr Joseph Wong, Executive Director of Hong Kong Design Centre said, “Sham Shui Po is a hub of creativity and design inspiration where the old meets the new, and Hong Kong Design Centre will set up a new design and fashion base in the district in the near future. We are inviting all creative partners, SMEs and NGOs to collaborate and exchange ideas with us through BODW CityProg, and work together to preserve the traditional culture of the old district and add sustainable design elements to the city, thereby promoting the sustainable development of the creative ecosystem of Sham Shui Po and shaping a better and more liveable community.”

 

2×2 Studio’s “Gwaden: Made in Hong Kong” and openground’s “The Fabric Commune” to pursuit sustainable creative economy through design and giving back to the community

 

2×2 Studio and openground, CityProg’s “Design EduVation” partners this year, are putting into practice the concept of “taken from the community, giving back to community”. Stimulating the promotion of sustainable creative economy in the community through design.

 

2×2 Studio brings cross-sectoral production projects to the community, with the hope of achieving mutual learning and sustainable production. Continuing with the “Gwaden” project at Amazing Land in Tai Po, the workshop will invite fashion designer Mr Hung Ming-kin to lead youths from H.K.S.K.H. Kowloon City Children and Youth Integrated Service Centre to participate in the “Made in Hong Kong” project, which aims to educate and nurture youths on the concepts of green design and living. The project includes a guided tour to the fabric market “Pang Jai”, to get to know more about the knowledge of raw materials used in garment making.

 

Located at Tai Nan Street, openground, is a concept venue rolling café, bookstore and workshop space into one. This year, openground brings “The Fabric Commune” project as an extension of last year. The project focuses on researching the soft goods shops in Sham Shui Po and refining the “Material Map” produced in 2020. Workshops will be held to educate the public on integrating design into their lives by linking material supply with design thinking.

 

Orient Occident Atelier’s “Between Hither and Hill” and THY LAB’s “Memory Lane 1921-2021” to demonstrate the feasibility of design as a catalyst for historical and cultural conservation

 

Design plays a vital role in the preservation of the historical buildings and culture in Sham Shui Po. Orient Occident Atelier, another “Design EduVation” partner of CityProg 2021, uses VR technology to bring back the temporary strengthening Grade 1 historic building “Ex-Sham Shui Po Service Reservoir” (as known as “Bishop Hill Service Reservoir”) to life. In “Between Hither and Hill – VR and the Bishop Hill Underground Service Reservoir”, the public will be invited to participate in a series of workshops to learn about the monument through VR experiences and professional sharing by building conservation professionals, followed by urban orientation and discussion. 3D scanning will be used to bring out the public’s associative approach towards conservation.

 

As for the “Anchor Site Festivals”, CityProg 2021’s partner THY LAB brings a series of design book sharing sessions and design thinking workshops with local typographers and sign makers on the theme of “Typography” and “Hong Kong Signboards”. These are cultural features found everywhere in Sham Shui Po, through workshops we can stimulate and discuss the importance of conservation culture. In addition, “Hong Kong Signboards” exhibition will be one of the highlights at THY LAB to showcase the history and design evolution of Hong Kong signboards over the past century.

 

Milk Design and Kennifstudio’s “Signage Lab” to co-design for better living community

 

Every sign in a city has meaning behind it, and well-designed street signs can often enhance our daily lives. Milk Design and Kennifstudio, the partners of “Design EduVation” in CityProg 2021, will jointly present the “Signage Lab”, a series of activities to guide participants to understand how street sign design can shape a better community life and using Sham Shui Po community as the theme. The programme will start with a guided tour, where participants will learn about the design of street signs in Sham Shui Po as idea stimulation. Participants then turn their ideas into artworks through workshops and share on social media platform for public voting. The ten designs with the highest number of votes will be produced in different materials and installed on the streets in Sham Shui Po. This project aims to foster community communication and building a healthy living environment for the mind, body and soul.

 

More exciting events in November and December to ignite city’s design and creative fire

 

Apart from the above 5 major events in Sham Shui Po, CityProg 2021 will also link up with various creative partners in November and December to bring more “Anchor Site Festivals”, “Design EduVation” Programmes and “Satellite Events & Offers” to energise the city with creative design atmosphere.

 

These include a community design workshop in collaboration with ROUGH C, “Design EduVation” partner, to collect second-hand material for upcycling in various districts across the territory. Other key partners of “Anchor Site Festivals” include: the Waste Upcycling Competition and Exhibition at K-Farm at Kennedy Town Waterfront, which uses design and creative perspectives to turn “waste” into value; and the impactful project “Made in Hong Kong 2.0” by GLOs Café by foody, which uses a mentorship model to organise a series of youth-led creative bazaars, talks, demonstrations, guided tours and musical performances, allowing people to show support and engage with various “Made in Hong Kong” brands; Making on Loft‘s “Creating as Usual –  Cultural and Creative Hangout in To Kwa Wan“, an “unearthed artefact” made in Hong Kong, will bring about a radical change in the district with the opening of the MTR Tuen Ma Line. Local creative designers and cultural workers take part in a series of guided tours, workshops and sharing sessions to encourage the public to rediscover the history and stories of the area through the lens of design. The Warehouse Teenage Club, located in the Grade 2 historic building former Aberdeen Police Station, aims to inspire the youth with “play” and blend design into entertainment by putting up “Re-imagine Backyard Warehouse” project. Last but not least, HKFYG Tsuen Wan Youth S.P.O.T.’s “PLAY in Tsuen Wan (Playtime Leisure Activation Youth)” project, focuses on ‘discovery’, ‘exploration’, ‘creation’ and ‘experience’, with a variety of community design activities and workshops to draw the attention of young people and the public to Tsuen Wan community and apply design thinking in their daily lives.

 

If you are interested in knowing more about CityProg, please visit the official website and social media platforms to receive the latest information about the events.

CityProg website:

www.bodwcityprog.com

Official Facebook :

https://www.facebook.com/bodwcityprogramme

Official Instagram:

https://www.instagram.com/bodw.cityprog

Appendix

Design !n Action

 

Design !n Action, a programme calling all design, creative talents and businesses to contribute their spare time and skills to collaborate with the local community, NGOs and youths to create shared values through design and design thinking, make a positive impact on society.

 

Design Explorer: Design career discovery programme for senior primary and junior secondary students

Design Explorer, a design career discovery programme for local Primary 5 to Secondary 3 students. Through a series of design thinking workshops, experienced design professionals’ sharing, guided tours of tertiary design schools and one day design internships, students will gain a multi-faceted understanding of the design industry and sustainable design development. The programme is free of charge and students who completed the specified numbers of credits will receive a certificate from Hong Kong Design Centre and special award experience.

 

OpenHouse!HK: Tailor-made career experiential programme for design students


OpenHouse!HK
, a tailor-made career experiential programme for design students of local tertiary institutions to enhance their understanding of the design industry. The programme will connect designers from various disciplines in the industry, including graphic design, brand design and craft product design. Designers will open their studios for industry sharing, students are able to gain knowledge, experience the industry’s ecosystem and to learn sustainable trends.

 

Disclaimer: Create Hong Kong of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organisers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Communications and Creative Industries Branch of the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau, Create Hong Kong, the Create Smart Initiative Secretariat, or the Create Smart Initiative Vetting Committee.

About Hong Kong Design Centre (HKDC)

Hong Kong Design Centre (HKDC) is a non-governmental organisation, and was founded in 2001 as a strategic partner of the HKSAR Government in establishing Hong Kong as an international centre of design excellence in Asia. Our public mission is to promote wider and strategic use of design and design thinking to create business value and improve societal well-being.

HKDC’s flagship programmes include Business of Design Week (BODW; since 2002) – Asia’s leading annual event on design, innovation and brands; DFA Awards (since 2003) – a well-recognised annual awards that celebrate outstanding designs with Asian perspectives; and Knowledge of Design Week (KODW; since 2006) – an annual thematic programme that gathers the global design community to explore how design can solve complex challenges of our society.

We also manage a Design Incubation Programme and Fashion Incubation Programme (since 2012 and 2016) – 2-year programmes to nurture future design and fashion entrepreneurs; and launched FASHION ASIA HONG KONG (since 2016) – an initiative combining conversations, interactions and cultural exchanges to position the city as an Asian hub for fashion trade and business development.

Learn more about us at www.hkdesigncentre.org

#HKDC

About BODW CityProg (CityProg)

BODW CityProg (CityProg) is a citywide creative business and community activation programme initiated in 2018 by Hong Kong Design Centre (HKDC). It aims to foster exchange and collaborations among creative and design units, businesses and community organisations in rolling out a series of activities and events that create shared values through design, make the community a better place and create positive social impact. Each year, CityProg brings together over 100 partners to spark more than 200 happenings around the city through its three distinct platforms: “Anchor Site Festivals“, “Design EduVation” programmes, and “Satellite Events & Offers“, fostering creativity for our city and economy and nurturing a thriving creative ecosystem in Hong Kong.

A community extension programme of HKDC’s annual flagship event Business of Design Week (BODW), CityProg spans throughout the year, with major happenings in November and December near BODW annually, peaking from 27 November to 5 December for the 2021 edition. With HKDC stepping into its 20th anniversary, the 2021 edition of CityProg has taken the theme “20s: ReflectRefreshReset“. It will join forces with different sector partners and the wider public to make a positive impact to the community with good design, adhering to a “business for good” concept.

Create Hong Kong of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region is the Lead Sponsor of BODW and CityProg.

Find out more at https://www.bodwcityprog.com/

About Create Hong Kong

Create Hong Kong (CreateHK) is a dedicated agency set up by the HKSAR Government in June 2009. It is under the Communications and Creative Industries Branch of the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau and dedicated to spearheading the development of creative industries in Hong Kong. Its strategic foci are nurturing talent and facilitating start-ups, exploring markets, and promoting Hong Kong as Asia’s creative capital and fostering a creative atmosphere in the community. CreateHK sponsors HKDC to organise BODW, BODW CityProg and other projects to promote Hong Kong design.

CreateHK’s website: www.createhk.gov.hk.

CLDY Implements Managed Services: Cloud Hosting Catered To SMEs

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 6 December 2021 – CLDY is pleased to announce it has launched a variety of technologies for a better experience in cloud hosting. One of their latest email hosting solutions, the SureSend 1.0, helps analyse the best route for email delivery in the backend without any user intervention. The proprietary technology suite allows for emails to be delivered on time with a considerably better delivery rate than standard shared hosting accounts, without any worry of being unknowingly blacklisted from the client’s inbox.

Another solution, SpamShield, is being continuously developed over the years through CLDY’s experience in dealing with customers’ spam issues. It does not use old-fashioned technologies or manual methods. It also gives a 99% success rate in accurately clearing the spam to help save time and money for businesses.

Amid the rapid advancement of computer technology, CLDY aims to explore other hosting areas to provide the same high-quality cloud hosting services to ensure that businesses can quickly get on the cloud.

For instance, UltraScale v1.0 helps by computing resources consumed by a business and detecting if the resources need to be increased or refused. As part of VPS hosting, SecureMax v1.0 is an automated solution that ensures that no unauthorised user can access their confidential data.

Because hosting setups are technically complex, it also requires businesses to have access to technical skills to manage cloud hosting well so that it is convenient and high-performing. Moreover, the bill can also be a chore to monitor constantly.

 

By providing Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS), Content Delivery Networks (CDN), multiple-country Point of Presence (POP), and redundant and failover servers, CLDY takes care of this complicated aspect for the clients. While CLDY admits that it’s not going to be an easy journey, they will continue to provide the simplicity, security, speed, stability, and support needed to provide their clients with the best experience possible.

 

CLDY is a new-age, employee-led cloud hosting provider that provides various services through the industry’s best systems from around the world. It has a global reach, aimed to help businesses navigate and get onto the cloud server without the need for any prior technological knowledge. 

 

For more info and information on their range of web hosting services, do visit: https://www.cldy.com/sg/.

 

#CLDY