LIUZHOU, China, Sept. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — From August 28 to 29, LiuGong (stock number 000528.SZ) hosted the grand opening ceremony of LiuGong Finance Indonesia together with a Customer Day in Jakarta. Over 300 distinguished guests attended this significant event, including representatives from Indonesian government departments, leaders of industry associations, key customers from mining, infrastructure, and agriculture sectors, as well as representatives from LiuGong’s management team. Attendees included Mr. Zheng Jin, Chairman of LiuGong; Mr. Luo Guobing, President of LiuGong; Mr. Cahyo Purnomo, Promotion Director from Ministry of Investment and Downstream Industries of the Republic of Indonesia; Mr. Sun Shangbin, Chairman of the China Chamber of Commerce in Indonesia.

Synergy and Cooperation • Building the Future Together

The Customer Day, themed “Strengthening Synergy, Building Trust, and Creating a Sustainable Indonesia Together”, fully demonstrated LiuGong’s achievements and long-term commitment in the Indonesian market.

The event featured a comprehensive display of LiuGong’s earthmoving machinery, lifting equipment, mining machines, and electric product lines. Tailored electric and intelligent solutions designed for Indonesia attracted wide attention from customers. In addition, the Indonesia regional finals of the 8^th LiuGong Global Skills Competition, held concurrently, further highlighted LiuGong’s ongoing commitment to talent development and its dedication to enhancing the professional skills of local technicians.

Financial Empowerment • Upgrading Value

As a leading player in China’s construction machinery industry, LiuGong has embraced the principles of “localization, value creation, and sustainable development” since entering the Indonesian market in 2006, actively contributing to the country’s economic progress and social development. In his remarks, Mr. Cahyo Purnomo highly recognized LiuGong’s contributions to sustainability and community harmony. He praised LiuGong not only for continuously introducing innovative technologies and green solutions, but also for advancing Indonesia’s downstream industry upgrading and job creation through localized manufacturing, talent development, and full value-chain investments—demonstrating the company’s strong corporate social responsibility and long-term commitment.

At the opening ceremony of LiuGong Finance Indonesia on the evening of August 29, Mr. Luo Guobing highlighted that the launch marks a key step in LiuGong’s comprehensive globalization strategy and full value chain localization. By integrating financial services, LiuGong aims to upgrade from a single product offering to a comprehensive solution encompassing products, capital, and services. In 2025, LiuGong Indonesia will continue its development by investing in its local manufacturing and R&D facilities, laying the foundation for Indonesia to become one of LiuGong’s global hubs.

Mr. Zhao Lei, Chairman of LiuGong Finance Indonesia, stated: “LiuGong will focus on pooling industrial capital and core resources to drive sustainable, high-quality growth across LiuGong’s entire value chain, thereby supporting the transformation and upgrading of Indonesia’s key industries.”

The opening of LiuGong Finance Indonesia and the Customer Day highlighted LiuGong’s firm commitment to localized operations, green value creation, and sustainable cooperation in Indonesia. Moving forward, LiuGong will continue to drive development with innovation in products and financial services as dual engines, positioning itself as a long-term trusted partner and contributing to the realization of “Golden Indonesia 2045.”

BALI, Indonesia, Sept. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — PT Telekomunikasi Indonesia International (Telin) and ITCO Niaga Sdn Bhd today officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the planning and development of the Indonesia Cable Express II (ICE II) subsea cable system, during the 10^th edition of Bali Annual Telkom International (BATIC) 2025.  

The ICE II system is designed as a state-of-the-art, high-capacity submarine cable network connecting Singapore to Manado, with additional links to key Indonesian cities including Batam, Jakarta, Surabaya, Makassar, and Balikpapan. Notably, the cable will also extend to Tawau in Sabah, Malaysia, with further domestic connections reaching Sandakan, Kudat, and Kota Kinabalu. 

This project represents a significant advancement in Southeast Asia’s digital infrastructure. By establishing a new eastward route through Manado—an alternative to the traditionally utilized South China Sea corridor—ICE II enhances the resilience of the region’s telecommunications networks, mitigates congestion risks, and provides scalable capacity to support accelerating demands in cloud computing, digital services, and enterprise connectivity. 

Beyond enhancing connectivity, ICE II is expected to serve as a foundational enabler of Southeast Asia’s burgeoning digital economy. The cable will facilitate faster adoption of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), the Internet of Things (IoT), cloud platforms, and smart city applications. Furthermore, it is anticipated to attract substantial investment in data centers, digital services, and content delivery networks, thereby strengthening the overall regional digital ecosystem. 

For East Malaysia, the direct cable landing in Tawau, complemented by links to Sandakan, Kudat, and Kota Kinabalu, promises to significantly reinforce Sabah’s digital backbone. This expanded infrastructure is projected to stimulate investment opportunities, empower local enterprises with enhanced digital capabilities, and improve internet access for communities throughout the region. 

Azmal Yahya, Telin Chief of Product , commented, “Signing this MoU is a crucial milestone in our commitment to developing resilient and world-class digital infrastructure. ICE II will not only deepen connectivity between Indonesia and Singapore but also foster greater regional integration by extending connectivity to East Malaysia. This initiative reaffirms Telin’s dedication to advancing Southeast Asia’s digital ecosystem.”  

Madam Anita Aqeela Hiong, Managing Director of ITCO Niaga Sdn Bhd , added, “Our collaboration with Telin on ICE II marks a strategic step toward Malaysia’s digital transformation objectives, particularly for Sabah. Enhanced connectivity will drive socio-economic growth, broaden digital inclusivity, and increase the region’s competitiveness.” 

About Telin

Founded in 2007, Telin is a leading global digital enabler delivering premium international carrier voice, data services, and tailored solutions for wholesale, enterprise, digital, and retail customers. Operating in Indonesia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Australia, Malaysia, Taiwan, the United States, Timor Leste, the United Arab Emirates, and Myanmar—with representatives in the United Kingdom, the Philippines, India, Vietnam, and Canada—Telin supports its customers through 10 global offices and 5 sales representative hubs.

Our infrastructure spans over 306,376 kilometers of submarine cable systems across 27 global networks, backed by 162 Points of Presence in 35 countries, and more than 19 Tier II to Tier IV data centers in strategic locations including Singapore, Hong Kong, Timor Leste, and Indonesia.

Telin is dedicated to connecting possibilities and driving digital transformation worldwide.

For more information, visit www.telin.net

About ITCO Niaga Sdn Bhd  

Established in 2013, ITCO is one of the leading design and build engineering companies with Green Technology Solution that provides engineering products and equipment for the telecommunication industries, utility companies such as sewerage treatment plant and electricity company. ITCO has a few Patented Cleantech Products such as ITCO Integrated Smart Pole (IISP) applied to develop off grid power solutions for critical applications. We are currently engaging with leading technology companies, industrial park, manufacturers, universities and municipalities. Our current ITCO Power Generator is installed in Malaysia with 250 over telecommunication sites.

About ICE II 

The Indonesia Cable Express II (ICE II) subsea cable system is a next-generation high-capacity network connecting Indonesia, Singapore, and East Malaysia. With its unique eastward route, ICE II will complement existing subsea systems, delivering diversified, resilient, and future-ready digital connectivity for the region. ICE II is part of the integrated ICE system that extends global reach to Japan, the US, the Middle East, Europe, and Australasia. 

Asia’s highest honour recognises the organisation’s community-powered model that has brought over 2 million girls back to school.

MUMBAI, India, Sept. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — India’s leading non-profit organisation Educate Girls has been named a 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Awardee, Asia’s premier prize and highest honour. It is the first Indian organisation ever to receive this award, in recognition of ‘its commitment to addressing cultural stereotyping through the education of girls and young women, liberating them from the bondage of illiteracy and infusing them with skills, courage, and agency to achieve their full human potential.’

Educate Girls becomes first Indian non-profit to win Ramon Magsaysay Award

The non-profit joins a lineage of distinguished laureates, including filmmaker Satyajit Ray, singer M.S. Subbulakshmi, social reformer Kiran Bedi, and Vinoba Bhave, alongside international icons such as Nobel Peace Prize laureates the Dalai Lama and Mother Teresa, as well as Oscar-winning storyteller Hayao Miyazaki.

“Being the first Indian nonprofit to receive the Ramon Magsaysay Award is a historic moment for Educate Girls and for the country. This recognition places a global spotlight on India’s people-powered movement for girls’ education, one that began with a single girl in the remotest village and grew to reshape entire communities, challenging traditions and shifting mindsets. This Award honours our dedicated Team Balika volunteers, valued partners, passionate gender champions, and supporters, and acknowledges the millions of girls who reclaimed their right to education. As we work to reach 10 million learners in the next decade and share this blueprint beyond India, we carry forward a simple truth that when one girl is educated, she takes others with her, multiplying change across families, generations, and nations,” said Safeena Husain, Founder, Educate Girls, reflecting on this milestone.

“At Educate Girls, we believe every girl deserves an education, it’s her right, and one of the most powerful tools for change. This award is a tribute to what’s possible when governments, communities, and changemakers come together to break barriers and open doors. We’re deeply thankful to the Government of India for its incredible support, and we celebrate our fellow awardees, Shaahina Ali and Fr. Flaviano Villanueva, whose work continues to inspire,” added Gayatri Nair Lobo, CEO, Educate Girls.

Educate Girls, founded in 2007, empowers girls through education to break cycles of poverty and illiteracy. Since its inception, mobilising 55,000+ volunteers, it has brought back over 2 million girls to school and supported over 2.4 million children with remedial learning. It operates in over 30,000 villages, aligning with the government’s priorities and initiatives. With a goal to reach 10 million learners in the next decade, the organization drives systemic change through government partnerships and ensures last-mile access for the most vulnerable. Its global recognition underscores the transformative power of investing in girls’ education.

Completing the 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Award roster are Shaahina Ali (Maldives), honored for combating plastic pollution and protecting marine ecosystems, and Fr. Flaviano Antonio L. Villanueva (Philippines), recognized for restoring dignity to Manila’s poor and homeless.

The 2025 Ramon Magsaysay Awardees will formally receive their medallions and certificates during the 67th Ramon Magsaysay Awards Presentation Ceremonies on 7 November 2025 at the Metropolitan Theatre in Manila, Philippines.

Photo: https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/educate_girls_rma_2025.jpg
Logo: https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/educate_girls_logo.jpg

SINGAPORE, Sept. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Citi and SMRT are pleased to announce an extension of their partnership to celebrate the start of their 20th year of co-operation, reaffirming a shared commitment to delivering smarter, more rewarding daily journeys for Singapore’s commuters.

First introduced in 2006, the Citi SMRT Credit Card was Singapore’s pioneering 2-in-1 solution integrating transit fare payments with credit card benefits. Since then, the card has evolved into a staple in the wallets of consumers, offering generous cashback on transport, groceries, and online shopping.

Ngien Hoon Ping, Group CEO, SMRT Corporation said: “Our partnership with Citi began 20 years ago with a shared vision — to transform how people experience their daily commute. We wanted travel on our public transport system to be more than just moving from point A to point B, but part of a vibrant lifestyle. Together, SMRT and Citi introduced a unique credit card that enables seamless rides, via the MRT and buses, from home to anywhere – whether for work or social activities – while also enabling fuss-free online shopping, right from the comfort of home. Over the years, while the way Singaporeans commute and shop have transformed, SMRT’s mission of ‘Moving People, Enhancing Lifestyle’ remains ever relevant.”

Yeo Wenxian, CEO of Citibank Singapore, said: “This partnership is driven by Citi’s strong commitment to Singapore, to bring value to commuters and cardmembers here in their daily life. Citi and SMRT share this common vision and over the last two decades, we have embedded convenience and connectivity into the commuter journey, while remaining relevant to evolving macro trends and changing lifestyles.”

Over the past 20 years, Singapore has seen a steady rise in public transport commuters using credit cards — including Citi Credit Cards — as a convenient alternative to stored-value cards. This trend reflects how Singaporeans are embracing digital payment options that deliver both speed and rewards.

As commuter habits shift towards digital payments, Citi SMRT Cardmembers have been at the forefront. Between 2019 and 2024, transactions made through digital wallets linked to the Citi SMRT Card grew sevenfold, underscoring its continued relevance for commuters who expect seamless, tap-and-go experiences.

Beyond transport, active Citi SMRT Cardmembers have also expanded their usage into everyday spending. From 2021 to 2024, these cardmembers made an average of 60% more transactions across popular categories such as groceries, transport, and online shopping, reinforcing the card’s role as an all-in-one companion for daily life.

The Citi SMRT Card has also become increasingly attractive to a younger generation of consumers who see value in combining transport convenience with lifestyle rewards. Over the last three years, new applications from customers under the age of 30 grew by 70%. This growth underscores how the card continues to resonate with digital-savvy millennials and Gen Z consumers who are shaping Singapore’s payment trends.

New Benefits for Consumers

With this renewal, Citi and SMRT are introducing fresh benefits to ensure the Citi SMRT Card remains relevant to evolving consumer needs:

• New to Citi Cardmembers can receive a limited time offer of upsized S$400 cash back with S$800 qualifying spend in the first 2 months
• 5% savings on Malaysian Ringgit spend, giving cardmembers cross-border value for everyday retail and online purchases in Malaysia from 1 September 2025 until 28 February 2026.

To celebrate the partnership renewal, Citi SMRT Cardmembers can look forward to 20-cent treats from popular F&B brands for four weeks starting September 19.

From September 4, a mobile game open to the public called Rush Hour Run – Presented by Citi SMRT Card will be launched. This game can be played multiple times to win vouchers from Lazada, ZALORA and more.

Those keen can find out more and sign up for the Citi SMRT Card at www.citibank.com.sg/smrt, to enjoy a smarter, more rewarding savings journey with 5% savings on everyday categories like groceries, online purchases and transport.

About Citi

Citi is a preeminent banking partner for institutions with cross-border needs, a global leader in wealth management and a valued personal bank in its home market of the United States. Citi does business in more than 180 countries and jurisdictions, providing corporations, governments, investors, institutions and individuals with a broad range of financial products and services.

Additional information may be found at www.citigroup.com | X: @Citi | LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/citi | YouTube: www.youtube.com/citi | Facebook: www.facebook.com/citi

About Stellar Lifestyle

Stellar Lifestyle, a business arm of SMRT Corporation Limited, transforms spaces in and around MRT stations into vibrant lifestyle destinations, enhancing the daily journey for commuters. We innovate to benefit the community by reimagining the use of existing spaces and leveraging the extensive train network to introduce new business models and foster community engagement. As the largest managing agent of retail and advertising spaces in Singapore’s rail network, we bring expertise in property and retail management, media, and digital advertising solutions.

Additional information may be found at www.stellarlifestyle.com.sg

TAIPEI, Sept. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Taiwan has officially launched the Asian Asset Management Center (AAMC) Promotion Office and a dedicated website, reinforcing its role as a regional hub for global asset managers.

Established by the Taiwan Stock Exchange (TWSE) under the oversight of the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC), the Promotion Office will serve as a centralized contact point for international firms seeking access to Taiwan’s financial markets. It offers comprehensive consultation services by phone, online, and in person, covering regulatory compliance, licensing procedures, and operational matters.

The launch ceremony was attended by FSC Vice Chairperson Chen Yen-Liang, senior officials from the Kaohsiung City Government, representatives from the Taipei Exchange, Taiwan Futures Exchange, and Taiwan Depository & Clearing Corporation, financial industry associations, and the Big Four accounting firms. The event highlighted a unified commitment across regions and sectors to advance Taiwan’s financial internationalization.

Policy reforms surpass expectations

Since the inception of the AAMC initiative in September 2024, the FSC has implemented 36 regulatory reforms, exceeding its 2025 target ahead of schedule. “These reforms are instrumental in positioning Taiwan as a strategic gateway for global asset managers entering the Asian market,” Vice Chairperson Chen said.

Taiwan’s asset management sector continues to gain momentum, with assets under management (AUM) rising by nearly NT$3 trillion year-on-year, while the July launch of the Kaohsiung Zone of the Asian Asset Management Center has already attracted a diverse mix of financial institutions, including banks, investment trusts, securities firms, insurers, and global accounting firms – underscoring growing market confidence.

New website enhances accessibility

TWSE also unveiled the AAMC website (https://www.aamc.tw), which consolidates updates from regulators, industry bodies, and affiliated agencies. The platform provides policy briefings, market insights, and tailored consultation services for institutional investors and the general public.

“Taiwan offers a compelling combination of robust private savings, a resilient financial system, and strong synergies with the tech sector. This gives us a strategic edge in developing a globally competitive asset management hub,” said TWSE Chairman and CEO Sherman Lin. “The Promotion Office will play a pivotal role in translating policy into practice and unlocking new growth opportunities.”

Both Vice Chairperson Chen and Chairman Lin emphasized that the AAMC initiative represents a long-term, collaborative endeavor with global aspirations. “The establishment of the Promotion Office and its online platform marks a critical step in Taiwan’s journey to strengthen its position in global finance,” Chen concluded.

Consultation services now available

The AAMC Promotion Office has launched front-line consultation services to support firms establishing operations in Taiwan. Services are accessible via a toll-free hotline (+886-800-88-66-99), an online inquiry platform (https://act.twse.com.tw/Q202507155/), and scheduled consultations – available either in person or via video conference. These services offer professional guidance on regulatory compliance, licensing procedures, and operational requirements. Additionally, the office will actively promote AAMC policies and achievements across domestic and international markets.

For more information, visit: https://www.aamc.tw

About TWSE

The Taiwan Stock Exchange (the “TWSE”) started operations on February 9, 1962. The TWSE is responsible for operating and advancing the Taiwan securities market. The TWSE’s primary business operations include listing, trading, settlement, and surveillance. These comprise listing promotion and review, post-listing supervision and corporate governance, maintaining market trading and order, securities firms’ services, investor protection, clearing and settlement operations, safeguarding against market defaults and the monitoring of illegal transactions. The Exchange provides comprehensive services to the securities market.

PORT VILA, Vanuatu, Sept. 1, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Vantage Markets proudly participated as a sponsor at the eighth edition of Cripto Latin Fest, one of the region’s largest gatherings of crypto enthusiasts and industry professionals, held on August 21–22 at the Joaquín Antonio Uribe Botanical Garden Auditoriums in Medellín.

The event kicked off with an exclusive cocktail opening on August 20, sponsored by Vantage, offering the ideal environment for networking and strengthening connections with industry peers and event participants.

During the two-day festival, Vantage highlighted its commitment to innovation and education in the trading space. Rodrigo Martínez, Head of Business Development, delivered a keynote titled “Smart Crypto Copy Trading Within Everyone’s Reach” and joined the panel discussion “Trading in Times of Uncertainty.” In addition, Andrés Cardona, Business Developer, led a workshop, “From Volatility to Opportunity: Why a Broker is Your Best Ally for Crypto CFD Trading,” where he shared perspectives on how brokers can support clients in navigating market volatility.

With nearly 6,000 attendees, the event served as a powerful platform for Vantage to engage with the wider crypto community and showcase its global presence. Vantage was also recognized with the award for Fastest-Growing Broker in LATAM 2025, highlighting the broker’s growth and visibility in the industry.

“Cripto Latin Fest provided us with an incredible opportunity to engage directly with the crypto community,” said Marc Despallieres, CEO of Vantage Markets. “Winning Fastest-Growing Broker in LATAM 2025 is a proud milestone that reflects our focus on delivering innovation, trust, and value to our clients.”

About Vantage

Vantage Markets (or Vantage) is a multi-asset CFD broker offering clients access to a nimble and powerful service for trading Contracts for Difference (CFDs) products, including Forex, Commodities, Indices, Shares, ETFs, and Bonds.

With over 15 years of market experience, Vantage transcends the role of broker, providing a reliable trading platform, an award-winning mobile trading app, and a user-friendly trading platform that provide clients access to trading opportunities.

trade smarter @vantage

RISK WARNING : CFDs are complex instruments and carry a high risk of losing money rapidly due to leverage. Ensure you understand the risks before trading.

Disclaimer: Vantage Global Limited is regulated by the VFSC. Clients are responsible for ensuring that access to Vantage’s services is permitted in their jurisdiction before engaging with the platform. This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice, an offer, or solicitation of any financial products or services. The content is not intended for residents of any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to local law or regulation. Readers are advised to seek independent professional advice before making any investment or financial decisions. Any reliance you place on the information presented is strictly at your own risk.