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Kardome and LG Electronics Partner to Transform Voice User Interfaces with Spatial Hearing AI

Tel Aviv, Israel – Newsfile Corp. – May 13, 2025 – Kardome, a voice AI market leader, announced today a strategic collaboration with LG Electronics to integrate Kardome’s Spatial Hearing AI into LG’s next-generation smart devices.

Kardome’s Spatial Hearing AI technology enables smart devices to hear like humans do, delivering natural, seamless, and highly accurate voice user interfaces (voice UIs)-even in noisy or complex environments. The technology will first be integrated into LG’s line of smart TVs, with expansion planned across additional categories including smart appliances, audio products, and vehicles.

LG Electronics will integrate Kardome’s Spatial Hearing AI into LG’s next-generation smart devices

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:
https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/8225/251553_70ae7c9ea4fa99cb_002full.jpg

As demand rises for intuitive voice UIs across the smart home and consumer electronics markets, Kardome’s Spatial Hearing AI offers a critical differentiator: spatial awareness and voice isolation that enable devices to understand and respond to users in real-time, regardless of background noise or the number of speakers.

LG Electronics, known for its commitment to innovation and quality, sees this as an opportunity to enhance its product offerings further.

“Kardome’s technology is a game-changer for smart devices,” said Jungho Kwak, head of MS Service Platform Development Division at LG Electronics. “By integrating this next-generation Spatial Hearing AI technology, we deliver a more intelligent and responsive user experience that redefines what’s possible in voice-enabled products.”

Kardome’s proprietary Spatial Hearing AI technology isolates and identifies individual voices in real-world settings. This ability allows devices to understand commands faster and more accurately, enhancing user satisfaction and performance.

“Our partnership with LG represents a major milestone for Kardome,” said Dani Cherkassky, CEO of Kardome. “Together, we’re bringing voice AI to the forefront of product innovation. Our Spatial Hearing AI sets a new voice UI standard in consumer electronics.”

This collaboration showcases how Spatial Hearing AI can transform human-machine interaction across LG’s ecosystem of connected devices, offering manufacturers a powerful solution to meet today’s voice-first user expectations.

For more information about Kardome’s Spatial Hearing AI technology, visit www.kardome.com.

About Kardome

Kardome is a pioneer in voice AI for consumer and automotive products. Its Spatial Hearing AI technology delivers accurate, context-aware voice interaction in real-world environments. The company’s patented technology enables smarter, more human communication between users and their smart devices. Learn more at kardome.com.

Press Contact

Laura Tate
VP Marketing, Kardome
Email: laura.tate@kardome.com
Phone: +1 323-205-6436

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

Hong Kong and Qatar: Partnering for Success

Visa-free travel arrangement and 35 bilateral accords signed


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 May 2025 – Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR)’s Chief Executive John Lee is leading a delegation of over 50 business leaders from Hong Kong and Mainland China to Qatar and Kuwait to forge closer connections and promote the city’s advantages to the Middle East. This historic visit marks the first time that Mainland entrepreneurs have joined an official overseas Hong Kong delegation.

“The composition of the delegation demonstrates Hong Kong’s unique role as a ‘super connector’ and ‘super value-adder’ under the principle of ‘one country, two systems'”, Mr Lee said. “Hong Kong is dedicated to capitalising on its connectivity with both Mainland China and the world, collaborating and synergising with economies and enterprises that are eager to pursue high-quality development with us.”

The first stop in Qatar (May 10-12) yielded significant results, including the signing and announcement of 35 bilateral accords covering areas such as economic co-operation, investment, finance, legal collaboration and innovation and technology (I&T). These included a tripartite agreement among organisations from Hong Kong, Mainland China and Qatar focusing on fintech collaboration, showcasing Hong Kong’s bridging role between different economies.

In addition to Hong Kong-Qatar co-operation, two agreements were reached between enterprises from Mainland China and Qatar, fostering co-operation in financial services and high-end manufacturing.

HKSAR's Chief Executive John Lee (seventh right) witnesses agreements signed between government department, enterprises, and institutions from Hong Kong, Mainland China and Qatar.
HKSAR’s Chief Executive John Lee (seventh right) witnesses agreements signed between government department, enterprises, and institutions from Hong Kong, Mainland China and Qatar.

Speaking at a business luncheon in Doha (May 12) themed “Partnering for Success – Hong Kong as a ‘Super Connector’ and ‘Super Value-Adder’, Mr Lee unveiled a new arrangement allowing HKSAR passport holders to visit Qatar visa-free for up to 30 days. He also said that Hong Kong and Qatar have substantially concluded the negotiations on an Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement.

On arriving in Qatar (May 11), Mr Lee met the Amir of the State of Qatar, High Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of the State of Qatar, His Excellency Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, and the Minister of Communications and Information Technology, His Excellency Mohammed bin Ali Al Mannai, to exchange views on strengthening bilateral relations and economic co-operation between Hong Kong and Qatar.

Mr Lee meets the Amir of the State of Qatar, High Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani (right).
Mr Lee meets the Amir of the State of Qatar, High Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani (right).

Qatar is Hong Kong’s third-largest trading partner in the Middle East with bilateral trade in goods worth US$1.6 billion last year. Mr Lee said that there is plenty of room for further growth in trade and business between the two places.

During a visit to the Qatar Investment Authority, Mr Lee was briefed on the operation and investment strategies of the sovereign wealth fund, and explored with the Qatar Investment Authority the development and co-operation opportunities for both sides in finance and the economy.

With I&T being an area of great potential for bilateral collaboration, Mr Lee and other delegation members visited Lusail City, one of the country’s flagship smart cities, to understand how the city integrates I&T with urban planning and infrastructure development. Mr Lee highlighted that both Hong Kong and Qatar attach great importance to technological development and regard artificial intelligence as an engine of new economic development.

Mr Lee tours Lusail City in Qatar.
Mr Lee tours Lusail City in Qatar.

Delegation members also toured the National Museum of Qatar to learn about the country’s history and rich cultural heritage.

Before departing for Kuwait, Mr Lee took the chance to visit an autonomous vehicle project at Doha Hamad International Airport. The project is designed by a Mainland Chinese tech firm with its international headquarters in Hong Kong, and first piloted at Hong Kong International Airport. “This exemplifies our role as a launchpad for global innovation,” Mr Lee said.
Hashtag: #hongkong #brandhongkong #asiasworldcity #collaboration #partnering #Qatar #beltandroad





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

Global Water Crisis Knows No Borders: Malaysia Leads Call For Urgent Cooperation


PARIS, FRANCE – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 May 2025 – Malaysia calls on the international community to strengthen cooperation in addressing the global water crisis – a transboundary challenge impacting nations of rich and poor alike. Strategic partnerships and coordinated policy actions are essential to securing a sustainable and resilient water future for all.

Sharing Malaysia's experience at the Global Water Summit 2025 in Paris, Deputy Prime Minister Yang Amat Berhormat Dato' Sri Haji Fadillah Haji Yusof said, it is time for the global community to recognise water as an invaluable resource to human survival and development
Sharing Malaysia’s experience at the Global Water Summit 2025 in Paris, Deputy Prime Minister Yang Amat Berhormat Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah Haji Yusof said, it is time for the global community to recognise water as an invaluable resource to human survival and development

While sharing Malaysia’s experience at the Global Water Summit 2025 in Paris, Deputy Prime Minister Yang Amat Berhormat Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah Haji Yusof said, it is time for the global community to recognise water as an invaluable resource to human survival and development.

“Water, the lifeblood of our planet, unites us in a shared responsibility. The global water crisis, transcending borders and economies, demands urgent collaboration,” he said in his speech during the Opening Plenary: “Delivering the Economics of Water” here today.

Sharing the nation’s progressive approach to sustainable water management, Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah who is also the Minister of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), highlighted both its successes and lessons learned, reaffirming Malaysia’s commitment to offering its expertise as a model for countries facing similar water security issues.

In his address, he outlined key milestones in Malaysia’s water management journey, emphasising reforms that have transitioned the country from fragmented state governance to a more coordinated federal-state partnership. He also underscored Malaysia’s ongoing efforts to manage growing demands, including urbanisation, climate change and industrial water use.

Key Highlights from Malaysia’s Water Sector Transformation 2040 Agenda:

  1. Shifting Perspectives on Water – Malaysia is focusing on treating water as a precious, finite resource. The nation is accelerating smart water management systems and implementing a matching grants program to reduce non-revenue water (NRW) with co-funding from federal government.
  2. Strengthening Private Sector Collaboration – Malaysia is inviting private sector investment to help drive innovation in water management. New policies are fostering opportunities for greater participation in green initiatives, water reclamation and the use of alternative energy sources in water infrastructure.
  3. Proactive Preparedness for Climate Change – Malaysia is strengthening its resilience to climate change by enhancing flood forecasting, advance data modelling and scenario planning to better anticipate extreme weather events.

Dato’ Sri Haji Fadillah also added that Malaysia’s active role in regional efforts, particularly within ASEAN, while extended an invitation to global innovators to invest in and collaborate on the next generation of water technologies. The Malaysian government remains committed to fostering sustainable water management practices through continuous innovation, partnerships and shared global solutions.

Meanwhile, Indah Water Konsortium (IWK) Sdn Bhd Chief Executive Officer, Narendran Maniam stated that resource recovery has shifted from a discretionary measure to a policy imperative, driven by the pressing need to enhance environmental resilience and ensure sustainable resource management amid escalating economic and ecological pressures.

Narendran added that for IWK, resource recovery has evolved from being a nice-to-have to a necessity, with a focus on three main drivers behind this journey:

  1. Commitment to Environmental Sustainability – IWK is dedicated to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, minimising waste and creating positive environmental impact through all its efforts.
  2. Changing the Utilities Landscape – by becoming the second tap for the nation. As Malaysia is rapidly becoming a regional hub for data centres, it presents a unique opportunity for IWK to support the sustainability of Malaysia’s data centre industry through reclaimed water supply.
  3. Economic Values and Financial Sustainability.

“Our message to the broader ecosystem is simple – bring value into the equation. The door is open for collaboration. As the national sewerage company, all collaborations will be subject to transparent open tenders and due diligence,” he said at the roundtable talk “Delivering the Capex Surge” during the summit.
Hashtag: #GlobalWaterSummit #Sustainability #IWK #NewLifeForWater #EraBaharuAir #PETRA






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

Indah Water Konsortium Sdn Bhd (IWK)

Indah Water Konsortium Sdn Bhd (IWK), is a sewerage services company owned by Minister of Finance Incorporated, Malaysia. IWK is responsible for providing sewerage services, operating and maintaining 9,133 existing sewage treatment plants and network pump stations, as well as more than 22,000 km networks of sewerage pipelines serving 32 million Connected Population Equivalent (cPE).

Our core expertise spans Operations and Maintenance, Refurbishment, Planning & Policy Strategy, Engineering and Process Review, Project Planning and Management, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) and Hazard and Operability Studies (HAZOP), as well as Research & Development, and Training Services including module development. IWK has been recognised to lead capacity building projects via mentorship programme by UN Habitat and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The company has completed two projects: UN Habitat’s Global Water Operators’ Partnerships & Water Organization Partnerships (WOP) Project in Banjarmasin, Indonesia, and ADB’s Water Organization Partnerships for Resilience (WOP4R) Programme in Baguio City, the Philippines.

For more information, visit www.iwk.com.my

Viral Malaysia Elephant Death Sparks Calls for Crossings

Viral Malaysia Elephant Death Sparks Calls for Crossings
This image is used only for representational purpose (photo credit: Stock Vault)

AFP – Viral images of an elephant trying for hours to save her calf after it was hit by a truck in Malaysia have prompted calls for dedicated wildlife crossings in the animal-rich country.

Lenovo AI Now Revolutionizes Learning and Teaching Experience at Hong Kong School, Ignites Education Landscape Transformation

Chong Gene Hang College implements Lenovo’s on-premises AI solution to create a whole new learning and teaching experiences, setting new standards for AI integration in Hong Kong’s education sector


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 May 2025 – Lenovo today announced the successful deployment of its on-device large language model (LLM) solution, Lenovo AI Now, at Chong Gene Hang College in Hong Kong. It represents a significant milestone in the modernization of education in Hong Kong and the region, allowing students to access personalized learning resources generated from their own curriculum materials, and enabling teachers to focus on enhancing teaching experience through easing their administrative workload.

Jimmy Chan, Vice-Principal, Chong Gene Hang College: “By implementing Lenovo AI Now across select subjects, we’re providing our students with tools that not only enhance their learning experience but also prepare them for a future where AI literacy will be essential.”
Jimmy Chan, Vice-Principal, Chong Gene Hang College: “By implementing Lenovo AI Now across select subjects, we’re providing our students with tools that not only enhance their learning experience but also prepare them for a future where AI literacy will be essential.”

“Lenovo AI Now is fundamentally changing how we approach education technology,” said Serena Cheung, General Manager, Lenovo Hong Kong and Macau. “Unlike generic AI platforms that rely on internet-sourced information, our on-device solution ensures students access only verified, curriculum-aligned content. Streamlining the operational work allows teachers to focus more on enhancing their lessons and engaging with students. Schools can implement the system in minutes rather than months, making advanced AI accessible to educational institutions of all sizes.”

Facilitating Students in Self-Studying

With Lenovo AI Now, Chong Gene Hang College allows students to instantly build a knowledge base using its existing digital resources, including textbooks, syllabus materials, notes, and past examination papers from the last three years. By leveraging this data, Lenovo AI Now delivers several key advantages for students:

  • By using the materials aligning school’s teaching strategy and policy, the application eliminates concerns about inaccurate information and saving time from fact check.
  • The application can accelerate learning path in self-study or self-reflection by generating key points, questions and answers analysis, customized exercises based on past papers and previous teaching materials

Lenovo AI Now’s personalized approach to facilitating self-paced learning for students also improves students’ independent learning ability.

Streamlining Teachers’ Work to Enhance Teaching Experience

For teachers, the application can reduce administrative work from them on managing on-going announcement, guidelines and changes from government. It allows school to quickly react and to stay close communications with students and their parents. As a results, teachers can focus more on “education” including enhancing course design, broadening the students’ knowledge through in-depth academic discussion, which is more than “teaching”.

During the trial period, several dozen students and teachers are using the solution, and they generally find the platform easy to navigate. Teachers reported a 40% reduction in time spent on supporting and individual tutoring, as students have more source to get assistance in learning. This self-directed approach motivates students to learn and they even requesting more supplementary materials, resulting in improved learning efficiency.

This ease of use has significantly boosted student engagement and interest in learning while enhancing teaching convenience. Many students have shared that the Lenovo AI Now platform has transformed their learning especially in exam preparation. They appreciate the ability to generate practice questions on topics they find challenging, receive immediate feedback, and focus their study time more effectively. It feels like having a personal tutor available whenever they need assistance.

“This collaboration with Lenovo represents a significant advancement in our digital transformation journey,” said Jimmy Chan, Vice-Principal, Chong Gene Hang College. “By implementing AI Now across select subjects, we’re providing our students with tools that not only enhance their learning experience but also prepare them for a future where AI literacy will be essential. This demonstrates our commitment to educational innovation.”

Chong Gene Hang College is currently utilizing Lenovo AI Now for English, Mathematics, and Science, while establishing a dedicated AI-powered self-study facility. This initiative sets a new benchmark for educational technology integration in Hong Kong schools. In the future, the school plans to explore using AI Now to develop personalized teaching plans for individual students by analyzing their school reports, attendance, and extracurricular activities. To ensure the security of personal information, a highly secure platform will be essential for this implementation, making a local LLM like AI Now crucial.

Hashtag: #Lenovo

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

About Lenovo

Lenovo is a US$57 billion revenue global technology powerhouse, ranked #248 in the Fortune Global 500, and serving millions of customers every day in 180 markets. Focused on a bold vision to deliver Smarter Technology for All, Lenovo has built on its success as the world’s largest PC company with a full-stack portfolio of AI-enabled, AI-ready, and AI-optimized devices (PCs, workstations, smartphones, tablets), infrastructure (server, storage, edge, high performance computing and software defined infrastructure), software, solutions, and services. Lenovo’s continued investment in world-changing innovation is building a more equitable, trustworthy, and smarter future for everyone, everywhere. Lenovo is listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange under Lenovo Group Limited (HKSE: 992) (ADR: LNVGY). To find out more visit , and read about the latest news via our .

Innolux and CarUX at Display Week 2025: Driving the Smart City Era and Expanding Next-Gen Cockpit Solutions

Showcasing AI-Driven, Customized Innovations for Smart Public Services with Industry-Leading Integrated Cockpit Displays


ZHUNAN, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 May 2025 – Zhunan, Taiwan-MediaOutReach Newswire-May 13, 2025- Innolux and CarUX will showcase groundbreaking display technologies at SID Display Week 2025 in San Jose, USA. The exhibition highlights their advancements in MicroLED, MiniLED, and AI-driven solutions, targeting smart city applications and next-generation automotive cockpits. These innovations underscore Innolux’s transforming digital life and enhancing user experiences across diverse sectors, from public displays to intelligent vehicles.

Innolux's exclusive 85
Innolux’s exclusive 85″ 4K AI interactive InnoGallery

Innolux introduces a new era of MicroLED applications, unveiling the world’s first “Color-Conversion Free-Tiling Seamless AM-MicroLED Mirror Display” and “High-PPI AM-MicroLED Mirror Display.” These products boast a wide color gamut (NTSC 115%), high reflectivity (86%), and low power consumption, enabling customizable, seamless tiling for smart cockpits, retail, and entertainment. Additionally, Innolux’s “101″ Color-Conversion-Based AM-MicroLED Free Tiling Display” further demonstrates its technical prowess, featuring P0.5mm high-definition imagery, seamless tiling, and high color saturation, suitable for large venues and immersive displays.

In the realm of AI, Innolux’s “85″ 4K AI Interactive InnoGallery” redefines art and interaction. Equipped with anti-glare and anti-reflective technology, it delivers a paper-like viewing experience, enabling dynamic digital art creation via voice commands. This solution targets smart city applications like digital museums and therapeutic environments. Innolux also presents the “MicroLED Floating Jewelry Box,” leveraging contactless gesture sensing and high-brightness MicroLED (>1,500 nits) to offer lifelike visuals for high-end retail and museum exhibits.

CarUX, focusing on automotive displays, unveils the industry’s only “9.6″ Micro-LED AR Windshield Reflective Solution” (WRS). This high-brightness, low-energy MicroLED module projects critical driving information onto the windshield using 3D imaging and image correction, enhancing safety by allowing drivers to keep their eyes on the road. The projection extends to the co-pilot’s view with customizable display options. CarUX also introduces the “InvisiView-Transparent Leather” solution, blending MiniLED backlight with leather for hidden displays, and the “InvisiView-55″ LID with Carbon Fiber Texture,” which conceals screens behind decorative panels to elevate cabin aesthetics.

Safety and convenience are further enhanced with CarUX’s “Smart Privacy 12.3″ Display,” which toggles between private and sharing modes to minimize driver distractions, and the “Camera Behind Display” (CBD), which integrates a driving monitoring system (DMS) with AI to monitor driver behavior. Additionally, CarUX and Innolux collaborate on the third-generation “34″ Active MiniLED Backlight Automotive Display,” featuring a slim profile, high color saturation (NTSC 115%), and chip-scale packaged LEDs, offering Tier 1 manufacturers a comprehensive smart cockpit solution.

Innolux’s “High PPI AM-MicroLED Display” addresses automotive needs with high brightness, ultra-high contrast, and durability, ensuring visibility in challenging conditions like sunlight or snow. Its pliable, rollable design enhances in-car entertainment and communication, creating safer and more convenient driving environments. These advancements position Innolux and CarUX as leaders in integrating display technology with AI, safety, and aesthetic innovation, driving the future of smart cities and intelligent mobility.

The showcase at Display Week 2025 reflects Innolux’s vertically integrated capabilities and CarUX’s focus on automotive excellence, offering scalable, customizable solutions for global markets. From smart retail to autonomous driving, their technologies promise to redefine user interaction and elevate digital experiences.

Video clips on Innolux’s exclusive products and technologies: https://youtu.be/uVn44RaskfQ

Information on Innolux’s participation in SID Display Week 2025
Date: May 13 (Tuesday) to May 15 (Thursday), 2025
Time:
May 13, from 10:30 to 18:30
May 14, from 09:00 to 17:00
May 15, from 09:00 to 14:00
Exhibition Location: San Jose McEnery Convention Center, San Jose, California, USA
Booth Number: 828

Hashtag: #Innolux

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

About Innolux Corporation

Innolux Corporation is a world leading TFT-LCD and large size glass solution provider. The Company implements the core business philosophy of “More than Panel”, restructuring the business units into two domains, Display and Non-display. Display domain focuses on vertically integrated display applications, technological efficiency improvements, and operational synergies. Non-display domain extends to automotive, medical, Fan-Out Panel-Level Packaging and other fields, and provides customers with comprehensive solutions. Innolux has thirteen front-end fabs (including advanced packaging) located in Jhunan and Tainan in Taiwan, along with assembly facilities in China, including in Shanghai, Ningbo, and Foshan. Innolux Corporation (3481 TT) is listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange (TWSE). The company’s 2024 consolidated revenue reached NT$ 216.5 billion. For more information, please visit

About CarUX

CarUX, a subsidiary of Innolux, is a global leading company for smart cockpit display and vision solutions, with high-end, immersive interfaces as well as enhancing user experience, quality, and efficiency by driving seamless integration capability and innovative technology. Combining with her 5i strategy, CarUX actively invests resources to develop display-centric technologies, which enables the products perfectly blended in the interior and exterior design of a car and create the differentiation for car brands.

WRISE Hong Kong Announces Senior Management Appointment & Role Expansion to Reinforce Sustainable Growth & Operational Alignment


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 May 2025 – WRISE Hong Kong today announced the appointment of Mr. Joe C. Lee as Non-Executive Director of WRISE Prestige Hong Kong, effective immediately. With his distinguished entrepreneurial background and extensive expertise in technology and business innovation, Mr. Lee will bring invaluable strategic insights to further strengthen WRISE Prestige’s growing wealth management business for the high-net-worth individuals.

Mr. Lee is a highly accomplished entrepreneur and innovator, recognised for his contributions to the technology and startup ecosystem. He was awarded the InnoStars Award 2018 in acknowledgment of his pioneering work in the industry. As the Co-Founder of Kuaidi Dache (now known as Didi Chuxing), he played a pivotal role in revolutionising China’s mobility sector.

In his new role, Mr. Lee will offer independent strategic counsel across core areas such as business growth, innovation strategy, corporate governance, and risk management. He will also contribute to the refinement of clients product-client mix and play an advisory role in key business milestones.

“I am thrilled to join WRISE Prestige Hong Kong at such an exciting time in its growth journey” said Joe Lee, “WRISE has established itself as a forward-thinking leader in wealth management, and I look forward to contributing my experience in technology and business innovation to help shape its future strategy. Together, we will explore new opportunities to enhance client experiences through digital transformation and innovative solutions.”

Beyond his success in ride-hailing, Mr. Lee serves as Chairman of Renhe Holdings Limited, Chairman of Klover Insurtech, and plays as advisor to many Venture-Backed Startups, where he has been instrumental in nurturing high-potential ventures. His extensive background spans AI, platform design, venture incubation, and cross-border innovation ecosystems – making him a unique bridge between technology disruption and institutional growth for WRISE Prestige Hong Kong.

Derrick Tan, Executive Chairman, WRISE Group, said ” We are honored to welcome Joe Lee to WRISE Prestige Hong Kong. His exceptional entrepreneurial journey and strategic vision align perfectly with our mission to redefine wealth management through innovation. His insights will be invaluable as we continue to expand our offerings and elevate our client experience in Hong Kong and beyond.”

Additionally, WRISE Group announced expanded leadership roles for two senior executives, effective immediately. Mr. Stephen Yan, formerly Chairman of WRISE Prestige Hong Kong, has been appointed Executive Vice Chairman of WRISE Group. In his new role, Stephen will work closely with Derrick Tan to shape and execute the Group’s strategic vision across its global offices. Dr. Jowin Fung, previously Vice Chairman of WRISE Prestige Hong Kong, will assume the role of Vice Chairman of WRISE Hong Kong. He will oversee the WRISE Private and Prestige business in Hong Kong, driving business development and client engagement in one of the Group’s key markets.

These leadership appointments underscore WRISE Group’s commitment to strengthening its executive team, enhancing operational alignment, and positioning the firm for long-term sustainable growth.

Hashtag: #WRISEHongKong

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

About WRISE

WRISE is one of Asia’s fastest-growing financial firms, driven by strategic acquisitions of companies with deep expertise and solid foundations. With a strong presence across key financial hubs including Singapore, Dubai, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Shenzhen and Tokyo, WRISE is home to one of the largest network of independent qualified advisors.

With over 400 employees located globally, supported by an ecosystem of over 200 financial intermediaries and access to eight booking centres worldwide, WRISE ensures unparalleled service and expertise in navigating today’s financial landscape.

WRISE Group of companies include WRISE Wealth Management (Singapore), WRISE Wealth Management (Hong Kong), WRISE Wealth Management Middle East Ltd (DIFC, regulated by the DFSA), WRISE Prestige Securities (Hong Kong), WRISE Prestige Asset Management (Hong Kong), WRISE Financial Services (Hong Kong), WRISE Capital (Hong Kong) and affiliated companies WeWrise Services.

Lao-American Couple Builds School in Northern Laos, Falls Short on Final Funding

Photo supplied by Toni Plascencia.

The Lao Legends charity concert, held in Irving, Texas in 2024, served as a central fundraising event aimed at improving education infrastructure in Phongsaly, a province in northern Laos.

Spearheaded by Dallas resident Toni Plascencia, the concert brought attention to the challenges faced by children of the Akha tribe and raised funds to support ongoing development efforts.

The event succeeded in generating enough donations to complete the construction of a much-needed school building in the mountainous region. However, organizers reported that the campaign fell just short of its overall goal, leaving the school without adequate furnishings and funds to hire teachers.

Despite this setback, the event marked a significant step forward in improving access to education in the area.

Photo supplied by Toni Plascencia

Toni and her husband, Mario Plascencia, have remained actively involved in supporting the community beyond the concert. Following the event, the couple continued their commitment by organizing visits to Phongsaly and personally sponsoring children and families to help them stay in school.

Their efforts have expanded across Southeast Asia, where they’ve led charitable expeditions during key cultural celebrations such as Pi Mai Lao.

With logistical support from the Thailand Embassy’s Tourism Bureau, their work has extended into rural areas of Thailand and Laos, focusing on empowering local schools, women’s groups, and children.

To date, the couple, along with support from donors, friends, and family, has helped raise over LAK 1.7 billion (about USD 78,955) for regional initiatives.

The Plascencias are planning future projects, including participation in the Nepal Sanctuary School Trip Trek in Spring 2026, which will combine volunteerism with guided treks through the Himalayas.

For more information about the Lao Legends concert campaign or future charitable initiatives, inquiries can be directed to: info@nepalsanctuarytreks.com