KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In celebration of World Microbiome Day, SpaceGut, a Malaysia-based health tech company, introduces a scientific and personalised approach to one of the country’s most pressing health concerns, obesity. Through its Gut Microbiome Test Kit and AI-powered personalised meal plan, SpaceGut aims to address the root microbial imbalances that contribute to excessive weight gain and metabolic disorders.

Obesity in Malaysia has become an increasingly serious public health concern. According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023, the proportion of overweight and obese individuals has surged from 44.5% in 2011 to 54.4% in 2023. Classified by the World Health Organization as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 30 or above, obesity is a complex metabolic condition influenced by both genetic and environmental factors.

Emerging research highlights a significant connection between obesity and imbalances in the gut microbiota, with people living with obesity often exhibiting lower bacterial diversity, higher concentrations of energy-harvesting microbes, and persistent low-grade inflammation.

The SpaceGut Approach: Targeting Obesity at the Microbial Level

SpaceGut combines cutting-edge science with practical application, starting with a comprehensive at-home stool test that profiles the user’s gut microbiome in detail. This test identifies thousands of microbial species that influence key metabolic processes such as calorie extraction, insulin sensitivity, and inflammatory responses.

The results are then processed through SpaceGut’s next-generation sequencing AI technology to map the gut microbiota and use a proprietary bioinformatics database of over 50,000 samples. Based on this analysis, users receive a fully customised nutrition plan that scores over 300 foods and beverages across more than 10 categories, including fruits, vegetables, legumes, meats, seafood, and carbohydrates. Each score reflects how a specific food interacts with the user’s unique microbial ecosystem, either by promoting beneficial bacteria or suppressing harmful strains.

According to SpaceGut’s user data, individuals classified as overweight experienced an average weight loss of 7.2 kg within just six weeks of following the AI-personalised dietary plan based on the patient’s microbiome test results. By aligning nutritional recommendations with each person’s gut bacteria composition, the program significantly improved hunger regulation and reduced cravings. These outcomes are likely linked to enhanced gut-brain signalling and a more balanced production of key appetite-related hormones such as leptin and ghrelin.

“People with obesity often carry microbial patterns that work against their health goals. By helping them understand their microbiome and equipping them with practical, personalised food strategies, we enable sustainable weight management starting from within,” remarked Datuk Tony Wong, Founder of SpaceGut.

To learn more about SpaceGut’s gut microbiome test and personalised nutrition programme, visit www.spacegut.com.

About SpaceGut 

SpaceGut is a pioneering healthtech company focused on transforming wellness through gut microbiome intelligence. Its flagship offering, the SpaceGut Microbiome Test, combines advanced laboratory diagnostics with proprietary, clinically validated AI to deliver personalised insights into digestive health and overall well-being. By decoding the gut microbiome, SpaceGut empowers individuals to make data-driven lifestyle and nutrition decisions that support improved digestion, immunity, mood, and long-term wellness. 

Backed by science and technology, SpaceGut is on a mission to make gut health accessible, personalised, and actionable. SpaceGut is expanding its ecosystem to include personalised supplement plans, expert-backed wellness guidance, and integrated nutritionist support to optimise health from the inside out. 

To learn more, visit www.spacegut.com or follow @space_gut on Instagram. 

SINGAPORE, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — At the Growth Asia Summit 2025, which took place from July 15–17 in Singapore, Vinamilk was honored to be the only Vietnamese company invited as a keynote speaker. The Growth Asia Summit is the largest forum for growth opportunities in the food, beverage, and nutrition industries in Asia. The brand made a remarkable impression with its innovative 6-HMO infant formula, setting a new standard in pediatric nutrition and paving the way for the dairy industry in Asia.

Vinamilk’s presence at the Summit is symbolic; it reflects the nation’s transformation from a country once struggling with post-war milk shortages into a rising nutrition powerhouse with Vinamilk at its forefront. The company currently ranks sixth globally for dairy brand value and was recognized as the most valuable food and beverage brand in Southeast Asia in Brand Finance’s Food and Drink 2023 ranking. Additionally, it is the only Vietnamese dairy company featured in the Fortune Southeast Asia 500 ranking (2024), underscoring its strong market presence in the region.

In Vietnam, around 55% of infants are not exclusively breastfed during their first six months^[1]. This means many babies may miss out on the full range of benefits found in breast milk, especially human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs), which support gut and immune development. To address this gap, Vinamilk pioneered Vietnam’s first formula containing six HMOs^[2]–nutrients naturally found in breast milk—to enhance both digestive and immune health. This solution is particularly impactful in a country where nearly 60% of working mothers struggle to balance both work and family commitments.

This challenge is not unique to Vietnam. Across Asia, exclusive breastfeeding rates remain modest, reaching only 52.9% in the Asia-Pacific and 48.3% in Southeast Asia^[3] primarily due to lifestyle shifts, work demands, and social pressure. This is why nutrition solutions that closely mimic breast milk, such as Vinamilk’s 6-HMO innovation, received extensive attention from the Summit’s expert community.

“I commend Vinamilk’s breakthrough not only for advancing nutritional science with Vietnam’s first 6-HMO formula, but also for its empathetic, consumer-centric approach. This is a valuable contribution to the Summit’s mission of seeking comprehensive health solutions—not just in terms of nutrition, but also in creating positive social impact, especially for women and children,” said Gary Scattergood, Editor-in-Chief of FoodNavigator Asia and NutraIngredients Asia, the Summit’s organizing entities.

Once a market dominated by imported dairy products, Vietnam is now home to Vinamilk, the first local brand not only to catch up, but to lead regional innovation in pediatric nutrition. While the market had plateaued at 5-HMO formulas since 2021, Vinamilk chose not to compromise and instead accelerated its R&D efforts to break this ceiling.

In 2023, Vinamilk entered strategic partnerships with six leading global nutrition companies (DSM – Switzerland, Novonesis, formerly Chr. Hansen – Denmark, Beneo – Germany, Gnosis – Italy, AAK – Sweden, and Kanematsu – Japan) to enhance scientific capability and innovation in infant formula development. The launch of the Optimum line, powered by a 6-HMO formula that accounts for approximately 58% of the total HMO composition found in natural breast milk^[4], exemplifies the successful integration of research and international collaboration.

The 6-HMO innovation brings significant benefits for infant digestion and immunity. It mimics critical oligosaccharides in breast milk, fosters the development of beneficial gut bacteria in infants and protects against pathogens. The formulation also includes both difucosyllactose (DFL) and 3-fucosyllactose (3-FL), two HMOs that are rarely found together in other commercial infant formulas.

Nguyen Quang Tri, Chief Marketing Officer of Vinamilk, stated, “Our 6-HMO breakthrough not only raises nutritional standards, but also helps support parents navigating breastfeeding challenges. At Vinamilk, we believe that when parents are happy, a child’s development is more complete. We believe this message doesn’t just apply to Vietnam – it resonates with millions of parents across Asia.”

Vinamilk’s contribution to the Growth Asia Summit 2025 signals a new chapter in Vietnam’s innovation journey. From a country that once had no dairy industry and lagged in nutrition science, Vietnam, through Vinamilk, is stepping into the global spotlight, confidently shaping new standards in pediatric care: proactive, empathetic, and pioneering.

For more information, please visit: https://www.vinamilk.com.vn/en.

In just one year, the Academy has established itself as the region’s premier platform for advancing ESG excellence, setting new standards for sustainability leadership and professional development.

HONG KONG, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Hong Kong Chartered Governance Institute (HKCGI) is proud to announce the first anniversary of its Sustainability Governance Academy (the Academy), marked by the highly anticipated Annual Update and Cocktail on 29 July 2025 at the HKEX Connect Hall.

Launched in July 2024, the Academy is the first sustainability governance platform of its kind in Hong Kong. It supports over 700 Sustainability Professionals, empowering them with resources to drive ESG leadership locally and beyond.

“From day one, we set out to build a platform where Sustainability Professionals could connect and share knowledge, ensuring they remain at the forefront of both their fields and their organisations’ sustainable journeys,” stated Mr David Simmonds FCG HKFCG, President of HKCGI and Chief Strategy, Sustainability and Governance Officer at CLP Holdings Limited. “Our rapidly growing community and the calibre of thought leaders we attract are a testament to the Academy’s influence.”

This year’s Annual Update will bring together an exceptional line-up of industry leaders, regulators, and global experts, offering insights from regulatory, corporate, financial, and scientific perspectives.

Speakers and topics include:

• Mr David Simmonds FCG HKFCG, Institute President, Chief Strategy, Sustainability and Governance Officer, CLP Holdings Limited:
  Sustainability Governance Academy Update

• Ms Kelly Lee, Senior Vice President, Listing Division, HKEX:
  Outlook on Sustainability Reporting in Hong Kong

• Ms Gill Meller FCG HKFCG(PE), International Vice President and Institute Past President; Legal and Governance Director, MTR Corporation Limited:
  ESG Reporting – Beyond Climate

• Mr Ernest Lee FCG HKFCG(PE), Institute Past President; Technical Partner, Deloitte China:
  Are you ready for HKFRS S1 and S2?

• Ms Pru Bennet, Partner, Brunswick Group:
  What Investors are Looking For?

• Mr Wen Xu, Co-founder of Polar Hub; Chair of the Polar Science Expedition Professional Committee, Chinese Association for Scientific Expedition:
  Glacier Protection and Climate Action

Special guest Mr Wen Xu, a glaciologist and the first Chinese explorer to complete a solo trek to the South Pole, will deliver a presentation on the urgent realities of climate change. “Standing alone on Antarctica’s ice, I felt the planet’s fragility firsthand,” said Xu. “The stark changes I witnessed are a global wake-up call—protecting our world requires urgent, collective action. The Academy brings together leaders who are not only talking about change, but actively driving it.”

HKCGI invites all Sustainability Professionals and ESG Reporting Certification Holders to an evening of insight, celebration, and networking. Join us in person at HKEX Connect Hall or online via livestream. All participants can take part in Q&A sessions, while in-person guests will also enjoy a cocktail reception with Hong Kong’s sustainability governance community.

Register to attend in-person | Register to attend online

Learn more about HKCGI’s Sustainability Governance Academy.

For Media Inquiries:

HKCGI Marketing Department
+852 2881 6177
marketing@hkcgi.org.hk

About The Hong Kong Chartered Governance Institute

(Incorporated in Hong Kong with limited liability by guarantee)

The Hong Kong Chartered Governance Institute (HKCGI) is the sole accrediting body in Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland for the globally recognised Chartered Secretary and Chartered Governance Professional qualifications. Formerly known as The Hong Kong Institute of Chartered Secretaries (HKICS), HKCGI is the Hong Kong/China Division of The Chartered Governance Institute (CGI).

With a legacy of over 76 years, HKCGI has established itself as a trusted and reputable professional body in the region. Its influence extends to CGI’s global network of around 40,000 members and students, making it one of its fastest-growing divisions. HKCGI’s community comprises about 10,000 members, graduates, and students, with significant representation in listed companies and diverse governance roles across various industries.

Guided by the belief that governance leads to better decision-making and a better world, HKCGI is committed to advancing governance in commerce, industry, and public affairs. It achieves this through education, thought leadership, advocacy, and active engagement with its members and the broader community. As a recognised thought leader, HKCGI promotes the highest standards of governance while advocating for an inclusive approach that considers the interests of all stakeholders, and ensures that every voice is heard and valued.

Better Governance. Better Future.

For more information, please visit www.hkcgi.org.hk.

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Get ready, IOI Mall Damansara! The Food Merchant, Malaysia’s premier gourmet grocer is delighted to announce the official opening of its retail store. This marks the second store opening this year, within a single month, showcasing The Food Merchant’s commitment to expanding its reach and providing unparalleled grocery shopping experiences to local communities across Malaysia.

Located in the heart of Kota Damansara, The Food Merchant’s new outlet at IOI Mall Damansara is set to become the neighbourhood’s favourite grocer, offering a range of fresh produce, global flavours and local favourites all under one roof. Shoppers can look forward to an exciting culinary adventure where they can explore aisles filled with diverse flavours. This new store seamlessly transitions from the former Village Grocer brand, promising guests a premium grocery shopping experience.

“We at The Food Merchant are confident that the extensive services and diverse ranges we offer will cater to the needs and preferences of the community here at IOI Mall Damansara,” shared Mr. Ivan Tan, Managing Director of The Food Merchant.

Our commitment as a premier grocery store goes beyond simply providing groceries, we aim to redefine the entire shopping experience by creating an environment where our customers can explore and shop the finest products with ease,” Tan further added.

To celebrate the opening, The Food Merchant is offering a range of exclusive promotions from July 17th to August 10th, 2025. Shoppers can look forward to exciting goodie bags, special offers, and more.

Additionally, The Food Merchant will be hosting a Japan Fair from July 17th to August 3rd, 2025. Customers can relive their trip to Japan as they shop from a wide range of authentic Japanese treats and delicacies.

The Food Merchant IOI Mall Damansara will offer a variety of services, including complimentary gift wrapping, free shopping trolley parking, and meat or seafood cutting services. Shoppers can also unlock exclusive benefits and rewards by joining The Food Merchant’s “Yes I Do!” membership program.

About The Food Merchant®:
Founded in 2021, The Food Merchant began its journey with the opening of its flagship store in Pavilion Bukit Jalil, themed ‘Celebration of Food’. Following successful expansions in 2022 to Pavilion Embassy, WCity OUG Sales Gallery, Prelude @ Pavilion Damansara Heights and flagship store at Pavilion Damansara Heights. The Food Merchant continues to build on the legacy of its founders, who were also responsible for the success of the Village Grocer chain with over 30 stores nationwide.

To learn more about The Food Merchant, visit: https://thefoodmerchant.com.my/ Facebook (@thefoodmerchant.my) and Instagram (@thefoodmerchant.my).

SINGAPORE, July 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — At the recent SIJORI Data Center event hosted by W. Media, Dr. Zhu (Drew) Feng, representing global energy innovator Ampace Technology, delivered a keynote address on lithium-ion battery safety for next-generation data centers. Centering on Ampace’s uncompromising philosophy—”Safety is the baseline, but more critically, the red line”—Dr. Feng detailed the company’s multi-layered strategy to ensure zero safety incidents across its energy storage systems (ESS). 

Core Safety Philosophy: Beyond Compliance 

Ampace’s approach transcends regulatory compliance. With over 2.45million ESS units shipped globally (65+ million cells) and zero safety incidents over five years, the company leverages rigorous design, manufacturing, and validation processes to embed safety at every level: 

• Cell-Level: Use of thermally stable LiFePO₄ (LFP) chemistry, advanced separators with ceramic coatings, and strict process controls to prevent defects.
• System-Level: multi-layer protection architecture spanning hardware, software, and cloud-based diagnostics, including real-time leakage detection, thermal runaway inhibition, and fire suppression.
• Lifecycle Commitment: Targets 0 safety events throughout a product’s entire lifespan, outperforming industry benchmarks.

PU200: A Safety-Centric Solution for Data Centers 

Ampace’s flagship UPS battery cabinet, the PU200, exemplifies this ethos:  

• 10C Ultra-High Power: Supports 462kW/cabinet for 5-minute backup, with 58% higher power density than predecessors.
• Extreme Safety Tech: Semi-solid-state cells, UL9540A-compliant thermal isolation, dual-circuit redundancy, and multi-level fire protection.
• Proactive Risk Mitigation: Cloud-based fault diagnosis, early fire detection (gas/smoke/temperature sensors), and explosion-proof design.

Validation Through Global Standards 

All Ampace ESS solutions adhere to stringent international certifications, validated through: 

• Accelerated Stress Testing: Salt spray, earthquake simulation, humidity, and external fire resistance trials.
• Field Proven Reliability: 0.1% annualized failure rate across over five years of deployments.

A Message from Ampace 

“Safety isn’t just a requirement—it’s the foundation of trust in energy storage,” stated Dr. Feng. “For data centers, where downtime is catastrophic, we engineer every component to ensure safety is never compromised. This is our red line.”

Ampace Technology Limited (hereinafter referred to as “Ampace”) stands as a globally acclaimed innovator in new energy technologies, committed to delivering green energy solutions with ultimate user experience to forge the world ahead and empower a better life. The company is known with world class R&D and manufacturing of a complete chain Li ion battery products from “Cell-Battery Pack-System Integration”, and has obtained of authoritative certifications.

In the realm of energy storage, e-mobility, power tools, vacuum cleaners, drones, and more, Ampace has established extensive strategic partnerships with industry leaders. The company is renowned for providing new energy products and services characterized by ultimate safety, reliability, performance, and user experience, serving over 50 million customers in 30 countries and regions worldwide.

To learn more, please visit the Ampace official website: https://www.ampacetech.com/en