The Lao government has announced plans to address and improve tourism in Luang Prabang, focusing on creating a more efficient and inclusive experience for visitors.
Lao Government Aims to Boost Tourism in Luang Prabang, Addressing Infrastructure, Industry Challenges
Hong Kong Life’s Wealth Accelerator Multi-Currency Plan A Multi-Currency Wealth Solution to Flourish Perpetual Legacy
Up to 18% First Year Premium Discount Complimentary Health Services including Health Check-up, Chinese Medicine Services or Vaccination Services
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 November 2024 – As global life expectancy prolongs and the costs of living continue to rise, it is not easy to properly plan for the future of oneself and his beloved ones. Hong Kong Life understands the needs of customers and announces the launch of Wealth Accelerator Series, to facilitate a comprehensive and sustainable wealth succession solution for customers. This year, Hong Kong Life has further optimized their products by launching the Wealth Accelerator Multi-Currency Plan, and the Wealth Accelerator Series has also received various awards from local media.
The currency conversion function of Wealth Accelerator Multi-Currency Plan allows the change of policy currency to HKD, USD, RMB, AUD, CAD, EUR, GBP, SGD or NZD1, providing customers with greater financial flexibility for their personalized needs, such as children’s study overseas, foreign property investment and risk management on wealth, while also helping customers seize global market opportunities and enhance their wealth appreciation potentials.
All-round Artist Derek Wong Provides Voice Navigation for the Wealth Accelerator Multi-Currency Plan Promotional Video
Hong Kong Life has produced a promotional video for the Wealth Accelerator Multi-Currency Plan, making it easy for the public to understand the main features of the product. They have invited all-round artist Derek Wong to provide voice navigation for the video, leaving a deeper impression of the product on the public. Please visit https://youtu.be/XQtnuEDZ5_U to enjoy this promotional video.
Wealth Accelerator Series is Recognized in the Industry
Received Awards from “Hong Kong Economic Journal” and “CAPITAL Magazine”
Hong Kong Life recently received the “Award of Excellence in Wealth Inheritance Product & Services” at the Hong Kong Economic Journal Financial Services Awards of Excellence 2024 organized by the Hong Kong Economic Journal, and the”Outstanding Wealth Inheritance Award” at the CAPITAL Merits of Achievement in Banking and Finance 2024 organized by CAPITAL Magazine, for their Wealth Accelerator Series.
To encourage customers to plan for the future earlier, from now until 31 December 2024, successful application for the Wealth Accelerator Multi-Currency Plan can enjoy up to 18% first year premium discount, and also have the chance to enjoy a complimentary health service, including health check-up, Chinese medicine service or vaccination service.
Mr. Jonathan Ko, Chief Marketing Officer of Hong Kong Life, said: “Hong Kong Life is always committed to developing products that cater different needs of customers, and constantly thinking beyond the traditional framework, to facilitate forward-thinking customers to look abroad without limiting their life goals, and to grasp different opportunities in the global environment. Hong Kong Life has specially launched the Wealth Accelerator Multi-Currency Plan, which is a long-term savings product that integrates flexible wealth management and forward-looking wealth succession elements, with the features such as Change of Policy Currency Option, Policy Split Option, Wealth Succession Bonus, Flexible Change of Life Insured, Contingent Policyowner and Contingent Life Insured arrangement etc., providing customers with higher potential returns and flexible wealth management options to meet different needs on their wealth planning.”
Details of Wealth Accelerator Multi-Currency Plan:
Remarks:
- Availability of the Change of Policy Currency Option is subject to the decisions made by Hong Kong Life at the time of application.
Subject to the relevant terms and conditions. For inquiries, please call the Hong Kong Life customer service hotline at 2290 2882 or visit the Hong Kong Life website at http://www.hklife.com.hk.
Hashtag: #HongKongLife #創富未來多元貨幣計劃 #宣傳短片 #財富傳承 #保費折扣
https://www.hklife.com.hk/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/9038828/
https://www.facebook.com/hklifeinsurance/
https://www.instagram.com/hklifeinsurance/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Hong Kong Life
Established in 2001, Hong Kong Life Insurance Limited (“Hong Kong Life”) was founded by five local financial institutions including Asia Insurance Company Limited, Chong Hing Bank Limited, CMB Wing Lung Bank Limited, OCBC Bank (Hong Kong) Limited and Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited, which laid their foundations and have been serving people in Hong Kong for more than 50 years in average. Through our extensive network of around 130 distribution points comprising Chong Hing Bank, CMB Wing Lung Bank, OCBC Bank (Hong Kong) and Shanghai Commercial Bank, we offer an integrated one-stop service of insurance and financial planning to customers.
K-Pop Star BamBam Lights Up ASEAN-Korea Music Festival 2024 in Vientiane
Popular K-pop star BamBam was the leading star at the 2024 ASEAN-Korea Music Festival in Vientiane from 1 to 3 November.
Children Most Frequent Victims of UXO in Laos, National Authorities Say
Children are the most affected by unexploded ordnance (UXO) accidents across Laos, national authorities reported.
According to the National Regulatory Authority for Unexploded Ordnance, more than 60 percent of those injured or killed in UXO accidents this year were children.
Statistics showed that 25 UXO-related accidents in the first ten months of the year resulted in a total of 48 victims, 39 of whom were injured and nine lost their lives. Notably, 62.5 percent of the victims were children. According to the national authority, many of the affected children were harmed while unknowingly handling explosive remnants.
In response to these alarming figures, the UXO Sector Working Group held a meeting on 1 November to address ongoing challenges in UXO clearance and victim support.
During the meeting, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Phoxay Khaykhamphithoune emphasized the importance of integrating UXO clearance budgets into all infrastructure projects to prevent future tragedies. However, he urged all relevant sectors to ensure that areas are cleared before new developments begin and called for stronger collaboration between government agencies.
The United States Ambassador to Laos Heather Variava also reaffirmed the US’ commitment to UXO clearance in Laos. She reiterated that nearly USD 400 million has been allocated to support over 200 clearance teams.
This year, clearance efforts have successfully completed 39,689 tasks, with 77,933 tasks surveyed across nearly 921,071,431 square meters of land, resulting in the neutralization of 1,981,407 explosive devices, according to MAG Laos.
The 2025 action plan will focus on expanding risk awareness through provincial radio broadcasts, enhancing support networks for UXO victims, increasing technician training, acquiring advanced clearance equipment, and developing a more robust information system to improve safety in affected areas.
De Beers Group Hosts Natural Diamond Workshop in London
Chinese media and influencers engaged in in-depth discussions with De Beers executives, experiencing the brilliant world of natural diamonds.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 November 2024 – De Beers Group recently invited media representatives from Mainland China and Hong Kong, key retail partner executive from Chow Tai Fook Group, and influencers based in London to visit the Group’s headquarters office at 17 Charterhouse Street. The immersive experience delved into the intricate world of natural diamond, its culture and timeless beauty in the city of London, hub of where tradition and modernity coexist harmoniously. In order to better convey the charm and allure of natural diamonds to participants, senior executives from key departments and teams of De Beers Group were present at the event to deliver speeches, while tutors from the De Beers Institute of Diamonds guided attendees in practical exercises. Additionally, two London based artists collaborated to convert the 6th floor of the Group’s headquarters office into an exclusive workshop space. A two-day natural diamond workshop was hosted in this unique setting. Through this comprehensive experience, media representatives, retail partners, and influencers gained a deep cultural understanding of natural diamonds and are now poised to spread the endless charm and timeless beauty of natural diamonds with a broader audience.
From left to right – De Beers Group representatives, Chow Tai Fook Group representatives and influencers; Natural diamond workshop on 6th floor of De Beers Group’s headquarters office in London; De Beers Group representatives and media.
De Beers Group representatives attending the events included Sandrine Conseiller, CEO of De Beers brands; Sally Morrison, Natural Diamond Market Lead; Loletta Lai, PR Director Natural Diamonds APAC; Wesley Trucker, CEO of Tracr; Jodine Bolden, Director of Education of De Beers Institute of Diamonds; Spark Wu, Gemology Associate Director APAC; and Rebecca Collacott, Head of Sustainability Integration. Throughout the morning presentations, various speakers from the Group’s core teams presented on a wide array of topics, including natural diamond knowledge, the “Building Forever” strategy, diamond traceability, grading and identification, and diamond education. These presentations effectively highlighted De Beers’ pioneering position as a leader in the diamond industry and its ongoing commitment to promote the cultural significance of natural diamonds to the public.
Classroom of natural diamond workshop
As key members of the natural diamond social campaign collaboration between De Beers Group and Chow Tai Fook, Alan Chan, Chief Brand Officer of Chow Tai Fook Group, was joined by eight top-tier fashion, jewellery and lifestyle influencers from London and Paris to participate in the workshop.
Sandrine Conseiller, CEO of De Beers Brands, attended the workshop and said: “China is a market that we have always valued and respected. We hope that through this natural diamond workshop, we can provide the media friends with a deeper understanding of natural diamonds and their industry and help us guide the public to establish a correct understanding of natural diamonds and enhance consumers’ fondness for this category.”
Sally Morrison, Natural Diamond Market Lead at De Beers Group, emphasized: “The Chinese market has always been a core component of De Beers Group’s global strategy. As the world’s second-largest consumer market for natural diamonds, the enthusiasm of Chinese consumers for natural diamonds continues to grow, which motivates us to redouble our efforts to establish a deeper emotional connection with consumers through innovative ways.”
From left to right – Sally Morrison, Natural Diamond Market Lead at De Beers Group, introducing the vision and mission of natural diamond category marketing; Jodine Bolden, Director of Education of De Beers Institute of Diamonds, introducing diamond education; Loletta Lai, PR Director Natural Diamonds APAC at De Beers Group, presenting natural diamond marketing in China market.
Loletta Lai, PR Director Natural Diamonds APAC at De Beers Group, said: “It is a pleasure to invite a group of media and influencers to the De Beers London headquarters for an in-depth experience of the culture of natural diamonds. In recent years, targeting consumers of different age groups in the Asia-Pacific region, De Beers Group has worked with media and social media influencers to promote consumer education about natural diamonds, producing a lot of in-depth and creative content.”
From left to right – The art installation created by Temsuyanger Longkumer; Artists Annette Fernando (far left) and Temsuyanger Longkumer; The art installation created by Annette Fernando
The art installations at the workshop were created by two London-based artists, Annette Fernando and Temsuyanger Longkumer, who drew inspiration from natural diamonds to showcase their multifaceted nature and unique aesthetics. Temsuyanger said, “Diamonds and blooming flowers embody symbolic and metaphorical qualities that have long influenced art, literature, and design. I created this sculpture as a tribute to the diverse expressions of beauty in nature.” These installations skillfully combine diamond elements with space, symbolizing the purity and timelessness of diamonds, allowing participants to feel the brilliant power that transcends time and space. Annette Fernando said, “Celebrating these geological wonders and inspired by the Earth’s beauty, my drawings explore each stage of a diamond’s journey. I selected charcoal as the medium due to its connection to diamond formation—both coal and diamonds are composed of carbon, yet their paths led them to become dramatically different substances, highlighting nature’s diverse transformative processes.”
From left to right – Experts from De Beers Institute of Diamonds instructing media to use appraisal techniques; Sandrine Conseiller (far left), CEO of De Beers brands and Jodine Bolden, Director of Education of De Beers Institute of Diamonds (far right) presenting natural diamond workshop certificate to media; Influencers admiring rough coloured natural diamonds.
The hands-on practical session in the afternoon fully engaged every participant. Experts from De Beers Institute of Diamonds taught the appraisal techniques for rough diamonds, covering professional knowledge from colour, cut, carat size to clarity. Participants not only learned the 4C criteria of diamonds but also had the opportunity to witness the true beauty of rough diamonds and experienced firsthand the exquisite brilliance reflected by polished diamonds in the light. They also learnt how lab grown diamonds can be detected within seconds through Diamondproof, the latest detention equipment launched by De Beers Group. This session was more than just about acquiring techniques and knowledge; it was a demonstration of respect and tribute to the industry standards of the diamond trade.
Jodine Bolden, Director of Education of De Beers Institute of Diamonds, pointed out: “Diamonds are not only precious gems, but they also carry a rich cultural heritage and profound historical significance. We hope that through this workshop, we can showcase to participants the unique aspects of diamonds in the professional field—every detail from colour, clarity, to cut all highlights the uniqueness of diamonds as a natural wonder.”
Media visiting De Beers Jewellers flagship store on Bond Street
Beyond the natural diamond workshop, to provide media representatives with a deeper and more comprehensive experience of diamond jewellery culture, De Beers organized a two-day exploration of diamond culture in the city of London. The media representatives visited the iconic jewellery district to immerse themselves in the city’s rich jewellery history and unique culture. Their itinerary included a visit to De Beers Jewellers flagship store on Bond Street, where they visited and tried on exquisite high-end diamond jewellery pieces, appreciating the fusion of fine craftsmanship and contemporary design with natural diamonds. The evolution of diamond design and craftsmanship continues to breathe new life into each creation, reflecting mankind’s enduring quest for beauty and eternity. The media representatives also visited the Tower of London to see the renowned Crown Jewels, a visit that further immersed the participants in the intersection of history and diamond culture.
The journey into the world of natural diamonds culture in London was not just an in-depth exploration of diamond expertise but also a unique experience that encompassed history, culture, and the future. Through in-depth interactions with Chinese media and influencers, De Beers Group demonstrated its strong cultural influence and industry responsibility as a leader in the global natural diamond industry. At the workshop, participants experienced the exquisite craftsmanship of diamond appraisal firsthand, gained an in-depth understanding of innovative technologies in sustainable development and diamond traceability, and appreciated the multifaceted nature and symbolic meaning of diamonds through the works of artists. The jewellery culture tour in London, from the high-end jewellery stores on Bond Street to the Crown Jewels exhibition at the Tower of London, further enriched participants’ understanding of the history and culture of diamonds. Diamonds are not only precious gifts from nature but also deeply involved in the development of society and civilization, witnessing countless significant moments. Through these activities, De Beers Group not only led participants to trace the cultural origins of diamonds but also looked forward to their role and mission in contemporary and future societies. Moving forward, De Beers Group will continue to commit to ensuring the timeless value of natural diamonds worldwide through technological innovation, ethical procurement, and cultural promotion, thereby upholding its profound impact in human history.
Hashtag: #DeBeers #NaturalDiamonds #LondonWorkshop
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About De Beers Group
Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with diamond mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers Jewellers and Forevermark, and other pioneering solutions such as diamond sourcing and traceability initiatives Tracr and GemFair. De Beers Group also provides leading services and technology to the diamond industry in the form of education and laboratory services via De Beers Institute of Diamonds and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology systems via De Beers Group Ignite. De Beers Group is committed to ‘
Building Forever,’ a holistic and integrated approach for creating a better future – where safety, human rights and ethical integrity continue to be paramount; where communities thrive and the environment is protected; and where there are equal opportunities for all. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo American plc group. For further information, visit www.debeersgroup.com.
HEIDELBERG develops the AI-controlled print shop of tomorrow
- 20 years of applied digitalization and 5 years of experience with AI
- HEIDELBERG has been networking machines and systems in print shops since 2004
- 13,000 units worldwide are connected to the HEIDELBERG Cloud
- Three-digit million euro amount for digital processes, products and services
HEIDELBERG, GERMANY – Newsaktuell – 4 November 2024 – Many people see printing and digitalization as opposites. But today, the printing industry is more digital than ever. Digitally networked and software-controlled printing presses are just as standard at HEIDELBERG as over-the-air updates, intelligent assistance systems and fully automated printing on Speedmaster models. Around 13,000 machines and systems worldwide are connected to the company’s cloud. Print shops benefit from the evaluation of machine data in the form of benchmarking, performance improvements and active machine monitoring, among other things. Dr. David Schmedding, Chief Technology and Sales Officer at HEIDELBERG, says: “What began 20 years ago at HEIDELBERG with the connection of the first printing press to the Internet has opened up unimagined technical possibilities. Today we are planning the AI-controlled print shop of tomorrow, which can run shifts autonomously at comparatively low cost. And HEIDELBERG will provide important building blocks for this with software, machines and robotics.”
In future, AI will be able to control all machines and systems in a print shop.
Since 2004, HEIDELBERG has invested hundreds of millions in digitalization, data technology and robotics, making it one of the pioneers in mechanical engineering and industry and underlining its technological leadership. “Our company has shaped the printing industry over the past 20 years and far beyond and will continue to do so in the future based on our technological expertise,” says Schmedding. For example, the AI-based consulting tool “PAT” has been providing contract printers with easy-to-implement recommendations for more efficient workflows since 2021. The next version of the well-known workflow software is already in the starting blocks with the new AI-based version Prinect Touch Free. The cloud application will decide for itself which printing process (offset or digital) is the most efficient and cost-effective production method and then independently calculate all possible layouts on the print sheet. With these technical prerequisites, the AI-controlled printshop of tomorrow is the next achievable step.
Total solution provider for all modern printing processes
Since the drupa 2024 trade fair, HEIDELBERG has been a total solution provider for print shops and offers all modern printing processes with corresponding machines – from toner to inkjet, from offset printing to flexographic printing. The machines are linked by the Prinect workflow software, which controls all work processes from the print job to the finished print product. Schmedding says: “HEIDELBERG is well equipped for the future and is currently benefiting from a high order backlog following the drupa printing press trade fair.” In addition to digitalized printing presses, HEIDELBERG also has a contract business with digital services and output-based subscription models where payment is based on the number of sheets printed. Digital business models can only be realized because the workflow for print shops is fully digitally recorded and mapped.
20 years of digitalization: A new white paper entitled “Digital revolution in the printing industry – 20 years of digital innovations and smart manufacturing at Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG” shows the most important milestones from 2004 to 2024. Download possible at www.heidelberg.com
Large infographic with the digital milestones: See at a glance how HEIDELBERG has shaped the digitalization of the printing industry since the first printing press was connected to the Internet. Download possible at www.heidelberg.com
More images and a whitepaper on HEIDELBERG’s digital milestones from 2004 to 2024 can be found in the media section of www.heidelberg.com
Hashtag: #HEIDELBERG
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Laos, Singapore Partner to Launch Singapore International Institute for Enhanced Vocational Training
Laos has recently advanced vocational training and education by partnering with Singapore to create the Singapore International Institute. This new institute aims to expand career opportunities for young Lao students, equipping them with valuable skills for the workforce.
Evolve™ Launches in Hong Kong Offering a Revolutionary Non-Lethal Rodent Control Solution
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 November 2024 – Hong Kong welcomes Evolve™, an innovative, non-lethal rodent control solution designed to target rat infestations at their root. Unlike conventional methods, Evolve™ restricts rodent reproduction, offering an effective and humane way to manage infestations without posing risks to humans, pets, wildlife, or the environment. As a sustainable alternative to toxic baits and inhumane traps, Evolve™ represents a breakthrough in tackling Hong Kong’s escalating rat problem as a newly registered pesticide on the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department’s list.
Evolve™, an innovative, non-lethal rodent control solution designed to target rat infestations at their root, is available in Hong Kong.
Pioneering A Sustainable, Safe and Humane Approach to Rodent Control
Developed by U.S.-based SenesTech, Inc. (Nasdaq: SNES), a leader in the animal pest fertility control industry, Evolve™ is the first and only soft bait specifically designed to reduce rat populations by limiting fertility. Launched earlier this year, Evolve™ offers a non-lethal, eco-friendly solution that has earned the “minimum risk” designation from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). This classification (FIFRA 25(b) exempt) highlights its low-risk profile for humans, the environment, and non-target species.
Riding on the success of Evolve™ Rat, SenesTech expanded its product line in May with the introduction of Evolve™ Mouse. Both products integrate seamlessly into existing pest management programs, providing long-term, sustainable control of rodent populations.
Fruit Tree Limited Appointed as Exclusive Distributor in Hong Kong
In Hong Kong, Evolve™ is exclusively distributed by Fruit Tree Limited, a prominent pest control service provider that has worked extensively with the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) of the HKSAR government to register the products.
“We are excited to be the exclusive distributor of Evolve™ in Hong Kong,” said Francisco Pazos Alvarino, Director of Fruit Tree Limited. “This product represents the future of rodent control, offering a significant competitive advantage while aligning with our mission to deliver effective, safe, and sustainable pest management solutions.”
Tackling Hong Kong’s Growing Rat Population
New York is faced with severe rat problems and is the only city which has an independent department to deal with rats. With a new pilot scheme in place, New York will be using Evolve™’s contraceptive methods to curb rat infestation starting November 2024. Hong Kong is the first city apart from the US to have Evolve™ for rodent control.
With an estimated rat population of 2.5 million, Hong Kong faces a serious rodent problem. Despite recent efforts by the FEHD, which reported the capture of about 70,000 live rodents last year—a 24 per cent increase from the previous year—the infestation continues to expand. Widespread application of Evolve™ in the community will help reduce both the number of rodents in the streets and public areas and the costs of resolving the rodent problem.
Alvarino pointed out that conventional methods, such as poisonous baits and traps, which may quickly eliminate rodents but fail to address the long-term growth of rodent populations. “There are more rats born than captured every single day. A single rat pair can produce up to 15,000 offspring annually. Fertility control is the only way to stop that growth and to reduce the social costs of pest control. The money saved could be used for other important matters such as welfare.”
Targeting the B2B market, Fruit Tree Limited sees vast potential for Evolve™ in Hong Kong, with plans to expand into Mainland China. Initially, Evolve™ Rat and Evolve™ Mouse will be available in 1.5 lb, 3 lb, and 6 lb packages through Fruit Tree Limited and its exclusive distributor Chinchex Limited and authorised operator NoBedBugs-hk.
For more details or inquiries about Evolve™, please contact Fruit Tree Limited at +852 9358 2901.
Maximising the Impact of Rodent Control Programs
Research shows that Evolve™ can reduce fertility in rodent populations by up to 90 per cent when integrated into pest management programs. By addressing rodent reproduction, Evolve™ enhances the overall effectiveness of current control measures.
SenesTech CEO Joel Fruendt remarked, “We’re not just offering a product; we’re delivering a solution to an urgent problem. Evolve™ isn’t just about controlling the rodent population—it’s about taking back our spaces from the growing threat of infestation.”
Hashtag: #FruitTreeLimited
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Fruit Tree Limited
Fruit Tree Limited is a reputable pest control company specialising in providing effective and sustainable solutions for pest management. Fruit Tree places great emphasis on R&D to continually enhance our services and products. We invest in cutting-edge technologies and collaborate with industry experts to stay at the forefront of pest control and insecticide innovation. Our dedicated team of professionals is driven by a passion for excellence, a strong commitment to customer satisfaction, and environmental responsibility to serve both residential and commercial clients in Hong Kong.
For more information, please contact Fruit Tree Limited at +852 9358 2901.
About SenesTech, Inc.
We are committed to improving the health of the world by humanely managing animal pest populations through our expertise in fertility control. We are the inventors of Evolve™ Rat and Evolve™ Mouse, EPA-designated minimum risk contraceptives for rodents which reflect our mission to provide products that are proactive, safe and sustainable. Evolve fits seamlessly into all integrated pest management programs, significantly improving the overall goal of effective pest management. We strive for clean cities, efficient businesses and happy households – with a product designed to be humane, effective and sustainable.
For more information, visit 
https://senestech.com/
