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Rakuten Kobo Launches Unlimited eBook and Audiobook Subscription in Singapore

Kobo Plus gives avid readers unlimited access to Kobo’s library of over 2 million eBooks and 300,000 audiobooks at an affordable monthly fee


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 March 2025 – Leading digital reading retailer and publisher Rakuten Kobo today launched Kobo Plus in Singapore – the all-you-can-read subscription offering book lovers unlimited access to over 2 million eBooks and over 300,000 audiobooks starting from an affordable monthly fee of just SGD 9.99.

From left to right: Julian Chou, General Manager of Rakuten Kobo Asia, Denon Lim, President and Chief Editor of Lingzi Media, Michael Tamblyn, CEO of Rakuten Kobo, Hironori Shimada, Director of Rakuten Asia, and Maureen Ho, Chief Editor of Focus Publishing.
From left to right: Julian Chou, General Manager of Rakuten Kobo Asia, Denon Lim, President and Chief Editor of Lingzi Media, Michael Tamblyn, CEO of Rakuten Kobo, Hironori Shimada, Director of Rakuten Asia, and Maureen Ho, Chief Editor of Focus Publishing.

Avid readers and book lovers across Singapore – including more than 300,000 existing Kobo members – can now access Kobo Plus via the Kobo Books App for iOS or Android and directly on Kobo eReaders to begin discovering new authors and genres.

The global eBook market is valued at USD 18.02 billion this year and is projected to grow to USD 22.76 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.78%. The driving force of growth is expected to come from Asia, and the launch of Kobo Plus in Singapore strategically aligns with the region’s increasing demand for digital reading. This expansion positions Kobo to tap into emerging opportunities across Asia, catering to a new generation of readers who prioritize affordability, accessibility, and convenience.

The Kobo Plus eBook and audiobook collection features a breadth of stories, including the latest bestsellers, beloved literary classics, edge-of-your-seat thrillers, sweeping romances, thought-provoking nonfiction, and more.

“eBooks have never been more popular in Singapore, driven by changing reading habits, increased smartphone usage, and a shift towards digital content,” said Michael Tamblyn, President & CEO, Rakuten Kobo. “With Kobo Plus, we’re making reading more accessible and flexible than ever, giving book lovers the freedom to explore a vast and diverse catalogue without limits. Whether it’s discovering new authors, diving into different genres, or reading across multiple devices, Kobo Plus is designed to fit seamlessly into the way Singaporeans read today—and how they’ll read tomorrow.”

The Kobo Plus catalogue is ever-growing, with more titles being added to the collection each month. The service has three budget-friendly subscription plan offers:

  • Kobo Plus Read: Unlimited eBooks for SGD 9.99 per month
  • Kobo Plus Listen: Unlimited audiobooks for SGD 9.99 per month
  • Kobo Plus Read and Listen: Unlimited eBooks and audiobooks for SGD 12.99 per month

With unlimited reading for one low monthly fee, the Kobo Plus subscription is the perfect choice for avid readers who go through multiple books a month, as well as those who like to sample a few chapters before committing. With a Kobo eReader or the free Kobo reading app, there’s never been a better time to explore new authors and series.

Kobo’s portfolio of eReaders – which includes Kobo Libra Colour, Kobo Clara Colour, Kobo Clara BW, Kobo Elipsa 2E, and Kobo Sage – with their innovative features such as waterproofing and ComfortLight PRO for blue light reduction, along with stylus compatibility and page-turn buttons in the higher-end models, further enhance the Kobo Plus reading experience for modern booklovers on the go.
Hashtag: #RakutenKobo



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

About Rakuten Kobo Inc.

Rakuten Kobo Inc. is the world’s digital bookseller created by and for book lovers. Owned by Tokyo-based Rakuten Group, Inc. and headquartered in Toronto, Rakuten Kobo’s millions of worldwide users can read anytime, anywhere, and on any device. With a mission to make reading lives better for all, Rakuten Kobo connects readers to stories using thoughtful and personalized curation of eBooks and audiobooks, and the best dedicated eReaders and apps for reading. With the singular focus of making reading lives the best they can be, Kobo’s open platform allows people to fit reading into more moments in their busy lives.

Rakuten Kobo Launches Unlimited eBook and Audiobook Subscription in Malaysia

Kobo Plus gives avid readers unlimited access to Kobo’s library of over 2 million eBooks and 300,000 audiobooks at an affordable monthly fee


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 March 2025 – Leading digital reading retailer and publisher Rakuten Kobo today launched Kobo Plus in Malaysia – the all-you-can-read subscription offering book lovers unlimited access to over 2 million eBooks and over 300,000 audiobooks starting from an affordable monthly fee of just MYR 27.00.

From left to right: Julian Chou, General Manager of Rakuten Kobo Asia, Denon Lim, President and Chief Editor of Lingzi Media, Michael Tamblyn, CEO of Rakuten Kobo, Hironori Shimada, Director of Rakuten Asia, and Maureen Ho, Chief Editor of Focus Publishing.
From left to right: Julian Chou, General Manager of Rakuten Kobo Asia, Denon Lim, President and Chief Editor of Lingzi Media, Michael Tamblyn, CEO of Rakuten Kobo, Hironori Shimada, Director of Rakuten Asia, and Maureen Ho, Chief Editor of Focus Publishing.

Avid readers and book lovers across Malaysia – including more than 200,000 existing Kobo members – can now access Kobo Plus via the Kobo Books App for iOS or Android and directly on Kobo eReaders to begin discovering new authors and genres.

The global eBook market is valued at USD 18.02 billion this year and is projected to grow to USD 22.76 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.78%. The driving force of growth is expected to come from Asia, and the launch of Kobo Plus in Malaysia strategically aligns with the region’s increasing demand for digital reading. This expansion positions Kobo to tap into emerging opportunities across Asia, catering to a new generation of readers who prioritize affordability, accessibility, and convenience.

The Kobo Plus eBook and audiobook collection features a breadth of stories, including the latest bestsellers, beloved literary classics, edge-of-your-seat thrillers, sweeping romances, thought-provoking nonfiction, and more.

“eBooks have never been more popular in Malaysia, driven by changing reading habits, increased smartphone usage, and a shift towards digital content,” said Michael Tamblyn, President & CEO, Rakuten Kobo. “With Kobo Plus, we’re making reading more accessible and flexible than ever, giving book lovers the freedom to explore a vast and diverse catalogue without limits. Whether it’s discovering new authors, diving into different genres, or reading across multiple devices, Kobo Plus is designed to fit seamlessly into the way Malaysians read today—and how they’ll read tomorrow.”

The Kobo Plus catalogue is ever-growing, with more titles being added to the collection each month. The service has three budget-friendly subscription plan offers:

  • Kobo Plus Read: Unlimited eBooks for MYR 27.00 per month
  • Kobo Plus Listen: Unlimited audiobooks for MYR 27.00 per month
  • Kobo Plus Read and Listen: Unlimited eBooks and audiobooks for MYR 35.00 per month

With unlimited reading for one low monthly fee, the Kobo Plus subscription is the perfect choice for avid readers who go through multiple books a month, as well as those who like to sample a few chapters before committing. With a Kobo eReader or the free Kobo reading app, there’s never been a better time to explore new authors and series.

Kobo’s portfolio of eReaders – which includes Kobo Libra Colour, Kobo Clara Colour, Kobo Clara BW, Kobo Elipsa 2E, and Kobo Sage – with their innovative features such as waterproofing and ComfortLight PRO for blue light reduction, along with stylus compatibility and page-turn buttons in the higher-end models, further enhance the Kobo Plus reading experience for modern booklovers on the go.
Hashtag: #RakutenKobo

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

About Rakuten Kobo Inc.

Rakuten Kobo Inc. is the world’s digital bookseller created by and for book lovers. Owned by Tokyo-based Rakuten Group, Inc. and headquartered in Toronto, Rakuten Kobo’s millions of worldwide users can read anytime, anywhere, and on any device. With a mission to make reading lives better for all, Rakuten Kobo connects readers to stories using thoughtful and personalized curation of eBooks and audiobooks, and the best dedicated eReaders and apps for reading. With the singular focus of making reading lives the best they can be, Kobo’s open platform allows people to fit reading into more moments in their busy lives.

Lao National Assembly Debates Major Constitutional Reforms: What’s at Stake

The Ongoing Fifth Ordinary Session of the Ninth National Assembly Legislature in Laos. (2023)

The Lao National Assembly is currently debating the 2025 Draft Constitution of Laos, which proposes a number of major changes to the country’s legal and political structure for the first time in a decade.

The draft will be discussed from 17 to 20 March, and is part of a broader effort to modernize and improve the country’s governance.

The revision process began in June 2024, with a work plan announced for the amendment of the 2015 Constitution. 

The proposed draft has been made publicly available on the Ministry of Justice’s online platform since January 2025, and citizens have been invited to give feedback as part of the consultation process.

Shift in Local Governance

One of the most significant proposals in the draft is a complete overhaul of local governance. 

Under the current 2015 Constitution, local administration is structured around individual executive roles, such as Governors at the provincial level, Mayors at the district level, and Village Chiefs at the village level. 

The new changes would abolish these positions and introduce Governing Committees instead. If approved, these committees will operate at the provincial, district, and village levels, with a President at the head of each committee. 

The shift from individual leaders to collective governing bodies is intended to decentralize decision-making and distribute power more evenly within local governance. In addition to this change, the draft introduces a new administrative level called “Tasaeng,” which will be situated between districts and villages.

Laos Aims for Sustainable, Independent Growth

The draft also signals a major shift in Laos’ economic and environmental policies. Article 13 of the draft introduces the concept of an “independent economy,” emphasizing the importance of stable, self-sustaining growth. 

This reflects Laos’ desire to reduce reliance on external factors and strengthen its own economic development through an environmentally friendly approach.

This focus on green growth aims to attract more sustainable investments and improve Laos’ engagement with international markets while ensuring environmental responsibility.

The 2025 draft constitution also highlights innovation, science, and technology as key drivers of Laos’ economic growth. 

It expands on the 2015 constitution by supporting “intellectual inventions” and aligns with recent reforms, like the updated Law on Investment Promotion, which focuses on high-tech industries. 

More details will be shared by the National Assembly in the coming weeks.

Strengthening Prosecution Powers, Accountability

In addition to changes in governance and economic policy, the draft also proposes several judicial reforms. 

One of the most notable changes is the strengthening of the People’s Prosecution Office, which would be granted greater authority to initiate prosecutions. This marks a key change from the office’s previous role, which was focused more on oversight and legal supervision. 

The draft constitution also gives the National Assembly more power in appointing key legal officials, including the Head of the Supreme People’s Prosecution Office. 

This move to consolidate power within the legislature is part of a bigger effort to improve accountability in Laos’ legal system and strengthen the central government’s role in overseeing the country’s judicial institutions.

Recognizing the Lao Diaspora

Another significant change proposed in the draft is the formal recognition of the Lao diaspora. Article 47 of the draft constitution explicitly acknowledges Lao people living abroad as an inseparable part of the national community. 

By recognizing the Lao diaspora, the draft seeks to strengthen ties with Lao communities living abroad, including those who may have left the country during historical migration waves or who have acquired foreign citizenship. 

While this recognition does not automatically grant legal rights to the diaspora, it remains a symbolic shift that could lead to future policies aimed at fostering engagement between Laos and its overseas citizens.

What’s Next 

The National Assembly will continue to review the draft and may make revisions before it is finalized. 

If approved, these changes will impact Laos’ political, economic, and social landscape for years to come.

While many updates just reinforce current policies, others—like the shift to governing committees and a bigger focus on sustainability—are steps towards innovation

The proposed changes also show Laos’ aim to engage more with the global community, especially through environmental efforts and recognizing its people living abroad. 

The real impact will depend on how these changes are put into practice. Time will tell if this leads to transformation or just slightly tweaks to the current system.

KIT Global Strengthens AI-Driven Video Marketing and Influencer Strategies in 2025, Responding to Vietnam’s Growing Digital Market Demand


HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 March 2025 – As Vietnam’s digital economy continues to expand rapidly, brands are increasingly shifting their marketing efforts toward AI-driven video content and influencer collaborations to stay competitive. In response to this growing demand, KIT Global, a digital marketing solutions provider based in Asia Pacific, Europe, and Latin America, equips Vietnam businesses with the latest digital marketing tools powered with in-house AI to maximize brand performance.

“In Vietnam’s fast-evolving market where digital adoption is accelerating, brands need more than just conventional marketing. They need data-driven, AI-powered strategies that deliver real impact to the business,” said Risa Kusumaningrum, Country Manager for Indonesia and Vietnam at KIT Global. “With 91% of global internet traffic coming from video streaming by 2025, integrating AI, video marketing, and influencer collaboration enable brands to execute campaigns that are both creative and results-driven to ensure they stay ahead in a competitive digital landscape.”

Vietnam’s digital marketing landscape is shifting away from traditional advertising, with brands prioritizing social media, influencer-driven campaigns, and AI-powered automation. Digital platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have now become primary channels for brand engagement. With the surge of internet usage and digital growth, it is estimated that 53% of the population has shopped online using social networking platforms, such as Facebook and Zalo, or e-commerce platforms, such as Lazada, Shopee, and Tiki. This transition has pushed brands to invest more in short-form video content, interactive live streaming, and AI-powered ad targeting to achieve measurable ROI and maximize audience reach.

The country’s growing reliance on influencers is another key trend shaping its marketing landscape. Similar to what happens globally, brands in Vietnam are moving away from mega-influencers and celebrities, instead prioritizing nano- and micro-influencers who offer more authentic engagement and stronger consumer trust. Industries such as beauty, automotive, and consumer goods are leveraging these influencers to drive visibility and conversions, capitalizing on their niche audiences and higher credibility.

“Our expansion in Vietnam comes at a pivotal moment as the country’s digital economy accelerates and brands seek more sophisticated marketing solutions to stay ahead. We aim to provide localized expertise while seamlessly integrating global best practices as businesses prepare for major seasonal campaigns,” closed Risa.
Hashtag: #KITGlobalPlatform #B2B #Technology #AI


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

KIT Global

Website: http://kit.global

Thailand to Reduce Visa-Free Stay to 30 Days to Curb Illegal Businesses

Thailand to Reduce Visa-Free Stay to 30 Days to Curb Illegal Businesses
Thailand to Reduce Visa-Free Stay to 30 Days to Curb Illegal Businesses

Thailand is planning to shorten its visa-free stay from 60 days to 30 days to prevent misuse of the system by foreigners engaging in illegal businesses. The Tourism and Sports Ministry confirmed that related authorities have agreed in principle to this change.  

Tourism and Sports Minister Sorawong Thienthong said the Foreign Ministry had discussed this issue with stakeholders, who supported the move. However, further discussions are needed before the new rule is officially announced.  

In July 2024, Thailand expanded its visa-free program, allowing passport holders from 93 countries, including Laos, to stay for up to 60 days. Previously, this privilege was only available to citizens of 57 countries. However, tourism businesses raised concerns, noting that most long-haul tourists stay for only 14-21 days, while short-haul visitors usually stay around seven days.  

The Association of Thai Travel Agents warned that the extended stay period has led to an increase in foreigners illegally working or running businesses. The Thai Hotels Association also pointed out that it has contributed to the rise in condos being illegally rented out on a daily basis.  

In response to these concerns, the Tourism Ministry has instructed the Tourism Department to strictly enforce laws governing tourism businesses and tour guides. A special joint task force, including the Tourism Department and Tourist Police, is actively investigating illegal activities in major tourist destinations such as Phuket, Chiang Mai, Pattaya, Hua Hin, Koh Samui, and Bangkok.  

In 2024, authorities revoked the licenses of 40 tour companies found guilty of changing their authorized directors and shareholder structures illegally. In Phuket alone, 15 tour companies lost their licenses due to similar violations. Additionally, a Thai individual was discovered to be registered under five different company names.  

The government continues to crack down on foreigners using Thai nominees to run businesses, with stricter enforcement expected to follow once the visa-free stay reduction is finalized.

Thai PM Threatens Legal Action Over Latest Construction Deaths

Thai PM Threatens Legal Action Over Latest Construction Deaths
This image is used only for representational purpose (photo credit: Prachathai)

AFP – Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra called on Monday for legal action after six people were killed at the weekend on a highway construction project that has seen several deadly incidents in recent years.

Laos Taxi Scandal: Victim-Blaming, Public Outcry Highlight Gaps in Safety and Legal Protection

Laos Taxi Scandal: Victim-Blaming, Public Outcry Highlight Gaps in Safety and Legal Protection
This image is used only for representational purpose (photo credit: IStock)

A video of a Vientiane woman being sexually harassed by a taxi driver has gone viral, reigniting discussions about safety and accountability in Laos’ transportation sector.

Swiss-Belhotel International Wins Leading Industry Awards


JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 March 2025 – Swiss-Belhotel International, a global hospitality management group with a diverse portfolio of over 150+ hotels in key international markets, has been recognised with multiple prestigious industry awards in 2024 and the first quarter of 2025. These accolades highlight the group’s unwavering commitment to Passion and Professionalism™, ensuring that every aspect of its operations – from guest experiences to hotel management – reflects Swiss efficiency and structure combined with Asian hospitality and warmth.

Gavin M. Faull and Faull family at Family Business Conference 2024: Asia Pacific in Cairns
Gavin M. Faull and Faull family at Family Business Conference 2024: Asia Pacific in Cairns

Gavin M. Faull, Chairman and President of Swiss-Belhotel International, expressed his gratitude for the recognitions, stating: “Receiving these distinguished awards is nothing short of extraordinary. We are incredibly proud of these achievements, which are a testament to the dedication, passion, and perseverance of our entire team. At Swiss-Belhotel International, we are deeply committed to delivering value to our owners while continuously investing in our most precious asset – our people. Our success is built on a foundation of operational excellence and exceptional guest experiences. These accolades reaffirm our strategy of sustainable growth and our ability to adapt to evolving market demands while maintaining the highest standards of hospitality. As we look ahead to 2025, we will continue to set new milestones – seizing new opportunities, enhancing our offerings, streamlining our operations, and further empowering our exceptional team.”

Among the awards received by the group are the Legacy Family Business Award Asia Pacific at the Family Business Association Excellence Awards 2024 (May 2024) and the EY Entrepreneur of The Year 2024 New Zealand Family Business Award (November 2024), both recognising the contributions of Gavin M. Faull and the Faull Family in shaping a legacy of excellence in hospitality. Additionally, Swiss-Belhotel International was awarded Hotel & Resort Management of the Year at the Travel Trade Excellence Awards 2025 by Travel Daily Media (February 2025), further reinforcing its strong market position. The group’s dedication to long-term partnerships and sustainability was acknowledged with The Most Excellence in Sustained Partnership Award at the GarudaMiles Loyalty Summit 2025 (February 2025) and the Excellence Award in the Sustainable Hospitality category from ESG Business Awards 2024 in Hong Kong (September 2024).

With 18 brands and a strong presence across 20 countries, Swiss-Belhotel International is recognised for its world-class management models, multi-brand strategy, and owner-centric approach, ensuring each property thrives in its respective market.

Hashtag: #swissbelhotel #swissbelhotelinternational #awardswinninghotel #awardswinning #hotelawards #hotelrecognition #gavinfaull #familybusinessawards #esgbusinessawards



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

About Swiss-Belhotel International

Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Hong Kong, Swiss-Belhotel International is recognized as one of the world’s fastest-growing hotel management groups. With 150+* hotels and projects in 20 countries, Swiss-Belhotel International provides professional and expert management services for hotels, resorts and serviced residences. The Group’s distinct blend of Swiss hospitality and Asian-inspired service sets them apart. Each property carries the Swiss-Belhotel International hallmark, symbolizing quality and commitment to value. This dedication echoes their philosophy of “Passion and Professionalism™”.

*Numbers may fluctuate

For further information visit