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United Court Transitional Housing Project Receives “DFA Design for Asia Awards – Gold Award” Setting a Global Example for Holistic Care in Addressing Social Issues

Setting a Global Example for Holistic Care in Addressing Social Issues


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 March 2024 – Housing challenges are prevalent in cities worldwide, and governments across the globe are actively striving to address their own housing issues. In Hong Kong, over 200,000 individuals currently reside in inadequate housing conditions. The United Court transitional housing project has emerged as a beacon of hope and social innovation.

https://youtu.be/qdc2UwDTS64

Subsidised by the Government, United Court is a groundbreaking tripartite initiative led by non-governmental organisation Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Welfare Council (the Welfare Council), in collaboration with the leading property developer Sun Hung Kai Properties (SHKP) and the Government. This unique partnership aims to provide affordable, people-oriented housing solutions that transcend traditional notions of accommodation.

“The Housing Bureau has initiated and provided funding for a new community-based policy to drive a social movement leveraging partnership across different sectors to better utilise available temporary land resources and temporary vacant premises to relieve the pressure on those with urgent housing needs,” stated Winnie Ho, Secretary for Housing, HKSAR Government.

United Court was the first fully completed large-scale transitional housing project in Hong Kong. It offers a comprehensive range of programmes, activities, and community engagement opportunities to rebuild residents’ confidence, bolster their resilience, facilitate their reintegration into society, and empower them to regain control over their lives. Leveraging innovative Modular Integrated Construction (MIC) technology, it managed to construct 1,800 flats in just 10 months, effectively addressing the urgent needs of 5,000 residents.

Adam Kwok, Executive Director of SHKP said: “The location of United Court is very convenient. It takes less than 10 minutes to walk to the closest MTR station, and there are plenty of community facilities around, including schools, markets, and playgrounds.” He said seeing over a thousand families enjoying their new homes make their efforts truly rewarding. In addition to providing the site for free, SHKP undertook site clearance and formation, schematic design and planning submissions, as well as offering advice on construction and property management.

The recent recognition of United Court with the prestigious Gold Award for Service and Experience Design at the DFA Design for Asia Awards, presented by the esteemed Hong Kong Design Centre (HKDC), further highlights its global acclaim. Prof Eric Yim, Chairman of the HKDC, praising the project, stating, “What impressed us even more was its sustainable, human-centric design that elevates user experiences. It demonstrates how good design, when combined with care and consideration for those in need, has the power to achieve a greater impact beyond short-term shelter.”

“We are thrilled to receive the internationally renowned DFA Design for Asia Awards – Gold Award because it is a great encouragement to us. We are happy to have a chance to tell good stories for Hong Kong,” said Mrs Patricia Lau, CEO of the Welfare Council.

Subsidised by the Government, Hong Kong has achieved an extraordinary feat with its transitional housing movement, leading and pioneering a new global standard for social impact and innovation. The Government has identified land for providing over 21 000 transitional housing units, exceeding the original target of 20 000 units. This success is the result of broad societal participation, with NGOs and social enterprises as well as property developers and the construction industry, collaborating closely with the government to make a difference. With this movement, Hong Kong demonstrates that it is a thought leader in harnessing cross-sector resources and expertise to innovatively tackle its social housing challenges.

For video and details of United Court, please visit:
Video: https://youtu.be/qdc2UwDTS64
Details: https://www.skhwc.org.hk/zh-hant/strategic_initiatives/detail/10/

Hashtag: #HKSKHWelfareCouncil #unitedcourt

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

Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Welfare Council Limited

Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Welfare Council Limited is a leading welfare organisation committed to building a society of justice, peace, love, and care. With a rich history since 1966, we provide personalised services and holistic care to individuals of all ages. We operate over 200 service units, employing more than 3,000 professionals. Our comprehensive network ensures that we can cater to the diverse needs of our community, from infants to the elderly.

Vinda International Privatisation Reached Compulsory Acquisition Threshold


SINGAPORE, HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 March 2024 – Isola Castle Ltd (Isola Castle) is pleased to announce that the level of acceptance for the Voluntary Conditional Cash Offer (the Offer) to acquire shares in Vinda International Holdings Limited (stock code: 3331) (Vinda) has reached the compulsory acquisition threshold (being 90% of the Offer Shares). As at 22 March 2024, the valid acceptances of the Offer represent approximately 90.40% of the Offer Shares.

Isola Castle is a special purpose vehicle indirectly wholly-owned by APRIL, a member of the RGE-managed group of companies. Headquartered in Singapore, RGE-managed companies are global industry leaders across a range of sectors in the bioeconomy and in transition and renewable energy. APRIL operates one of the largest, most technologically advanced and efficient makers of pulp and paper products, including its flagship product PaperOneTM.

Belinda Tanoto, Managing Director, RGE, said:

“We would like to thank the shareholders for their trust in us and we look forward to building a stronger, more efficient and more sustainable business together with the rest of the team at Vinda.”

Isola Castle will privatise Vinda by exercising its right to compulsorily acquire those Offer Shares not already owned or acquired by Isola Castle under the Offer on the same terms as the Offer (i.e. at the Offer Price of HK$23.50 per Share).

Offer remains open for Acceptance

The Offer will remain open for acceptance until 4pm on Tuesday, 2 April 2024 and will not be extended.

No Plans for Major Changes

Except for changes to the composition of the Board, there are no plans to make any major changes to the current business operations of Vinda, including any redeployment of Vinda’s fixed assets or to introduce any major changes in the continued employment of the employees of Vinda as a result of the Offer.

Procedures for Acceptance

To accept the Offer, Shareholders should complete and sign the Form of Acceptance accompanying the Composite Document in accordance with the instructions printed thereon.

The completed and signed Form of Acceptance, should be sent, together with the relevant share certificate(s) and/or other document(s) of title, to the Registrar, Computershare Hong Kong Investor Services Limited at Shops 1712-1716, 17th Floor, Hopewell Centre, 183 Queen’s Road East, Wanchai, Hong Kong, marked “Vinda International Holdings Limited – Offer” on the envelope, in any event not later than 4:00 p.m. on 2 April 2024.

Capitalised terms used herein shall have the same meanings as defined in the Composite Document dated 8 March 2024. The Composite Document can be accessed at www.hkexnews.hk or www.vinda.com.

Enquiry Hotline and Email

For any queries of an administrative and procedural nature regarding the Offer, please reach out via the following ways:

· By phone: +852 2319 4859

· Working hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am to 6:00 pm (Hong Kong time)

· By email: Vinda@investor.morrowsodali.com

Background Information

· On 15 December 2023, Isola Castle announced its offer, subject to the satisfaction or waiver (where applicable) of certain Pre-Conditions, to acquire Shares in Vinda at HK$23.50 per Share.

· On 4 March 2024, Isola Castle and Vinda jointly announced that all Pre-Conditions had been satisfied.

· On 8 March 2024, Isola Castle and Vinda jointly issued the Composite Document in respect of the Offer. The Offer is open for shareholders’ acceptance from 8 March 2024.

· On 11 March 2024, Isola Castle and Vinda jointly announced that the Offer has become unconditional in all respects.Hashtag: #IsolaCastle #Vinda

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

About RGE – www.rgei.com

Headquartered in Singapore, RGE manages a group of resource-based manufacturing companies with global operations. We produce sustainable natural fibres, edible oils, green packaging and clean natural gas used to create products that feed, clothe and energise the world. We help improve billions of peoples’ lives through sustainable products they use every day. With more than US$35 billion in assets and 70,000 employees, we are creating a more recyclable, biodegradable and lower carbon future.

Committed to sustainable development, conservation and community development, we strive towards what is good for the community, good for the country, good for the climate, good for the customer, and good for the company. With current operations spanning across Indonesia, China, Brazil, Spain and Canada, we continue to expand and engage new markets.

BTI DEADLINE TOMORROW: ROSEN, A TOP RANKED LAW FIRM, Encourages British American Tobacco p.l.c Investors with Losses in Excess of $100K to Secure Counsel Before Important March 25 Deadline in Securities Class Action Commenced by the Firm – BTI

New York, New York – Newsfile Corp. – March 24, 2024 – WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of the securities of British American Tobacco p.l.c. (NYSE: BTI) between February 9, 2023 and December 6, 2023, both dates inclusive (the “Class Period”), of the important March 25, 2024 lead plaintiff deadline in the securities class action commenced by the Firm.

SO WHAT: If you purchased British American Tobacco securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.

WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the British American Tobacco class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=20894 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than March 25, 2024. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.

WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs’ Bar. Many of the firm’s attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants throughout the Class Period made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) British American Tobacco materially understated the risks and potential likelihood of an impairment to its Premium American Cigarette Brands as a result of longstanding headwinds and; (2) as a result, defendants’ statements about its business, operations, and prospects, were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.

To join the British American Tobacco class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=20894 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.

No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor’s ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm or on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm.

Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm’s attorneys are ranked and recognized by numerous independent and respected sources. Rosen Law Firm has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for investors.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

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Contact Information:

Laurence Rosen, Esq.
Phillip Kim, Esq.
The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor
New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-1060
Toll Free: (866) 767-3653
Fax: (212) 202-3827
case@rosenlegal.com
www.rosenlegal.com

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

Four Suspects Charged, as Russian Diplomat Says US Didn’t Pass Along ‘Concrete’ Info Before Moscow Attack

Russian Rosguardia (National Guard) servicemen secure an area near the Crocus City Hall on the western edge of Moscow, Russia, Friday, March 22, 2024. Several gunmen have burst into a big concert hall in Moscow and fired automatic weapons at the crowd, injuring an unspecified number of people and setting a massive blaze in an apparent terror attack days after President Vladimir Putin cemented his grip on the country in a highly orchestrated electoral landslide. (AP Photo/Vitaly Smolnikov)

ABC News/By Tanya StukalovaEdward SzekeresKevin Shalvey, and Natalia Shumskaia

As four suspects were charged in the deadly terrorist attack on a concert at Moscow’s Crocus City Hall, Russia’s ambassador to the United States (US) claimed that the US administration didn’t pass “concrete information” through the Russian Embassy in Washington about possible preparations for a terror attack.

Russian investigators said the attack killed at least 137 people, including three children, and injured 182 others. At least 101 of the victims were being treated in hospitals on Sunday, Russian officials said.

Russian authorities identified the two suspects charged in Friday’s attack as Dalerjon Mirzoev and Rachabalizod Saidakrami Murodali, the press services of the Basmanny Court of Moscow told the Russian news agency Interfax on Sunday.

The suspects are charged with committing a terrorist attack that resulted in the death of a person as part of an organized group, Interfax reported. The suspects are under detention, but investigators are formally asking for their arrest.

“The court received petitions from the investigation to select a preventive measure in the form of detention in relation to Dalerjon Mirzoev and Rachabalizod Saidakrami Murodali,” the press service reported.

Τhe suspects face life imprisonment if convicted.

Late Sunday and into early Monday morning local time, two other suspects were brought to the Basmanny Court – Muhammadsobir Zokirchonovich Fayzov and Shamsidin Fariduni – and charged with terrorism, according to the court. All of the suspects have been ordered to remain under pre-trial detention of at least two-months.

Meanwhile, Anatoly Antonov, the Russian ambassador to the United States, denied a statement from a US State Department official Saturday that the US shared information on a possible attack with Russian authorities in accordance with its longstanding “duty to warn” policy.

“Nothing was passed,” Antonov told Russian state news agency TASS while answering a question about whether any information was handed over by the U.S. side before the terrorist act.

He added, “No concrete information, nothing was transferred to us.”

A U.S. State Department official said Saturday that the U.S. government had shared information on a possible attack with Russian authorities in accordance with its longstanding “duty to warn” policy.

But U.S. officials claimed information sharing came ahead of Friday’s deadly attack on a Moscow venue.

The search for bodies under the rubble of the Crocus City Hall, one of the largest shopping and entertainment complexes in Russia, continued on Sunday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin was informed Saturday that four suspected gunmen responsible for the attack were arrested near Russia’s western border with Ukraine, Russian news agencies reported.

Seven others have been detained and the search for other accomplices is ongoing, the state news outlets reported.

ISIS claimed responsibility for the deadly attack Friday night, in which gunmen opened fire on concertgoers at one of Moscow’s largest entertainment complexes. The attackers then set the complex on fire.

Antonov described the official Washington reaction to the attack on Friday as “rather muffled,” adding that the administration followed on Saturday with a “clear” statement. But it was unclear how much information Washington officials had passed on prior to the attack, he said.

“The question arises whether US officials passed all the available information to the Russian side, as they state,” the ambassador said.

—–

ABC News’ Shannon K. Crawford contributed to this story.

The National Anti-Corruption Commission Thailand joins forces with international agencies to focus on preventing and suppressing transnational corruption


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 March 2024 – As emerging with rapid digitalization that paves the way for transnational corruption, the National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), Thailand further tightened its collaboration with international organizations in tackling new tactics and complicated illicit activities in accordance with global standards.

The NACC’s Secretary-General, Mr. Niwatchai Kasemmongkol recently met with representatives of the Nordic Police Liaison Office, led by Mr. Carsten Andersen, Assistant Attache/Liaison Officer, Nordic Police Affairs Department at the Danish Embassy, Thailand and Ms. Jane Ohlsson, Assistant Ambassador/Coordinating Officer for Police Affairs in the Nordic Countries at the Swedish Embassy, Thailand, along with NACC’s executives and representatives from the Bureau of International Corruption Affairs and Cases, and the Bureau of Investigation and Special Affairs to enhance cooperation between the NACC enforcement agencies in combating transnational corruption.

“Current corruption problems are not limited to any one country. But it has developed into a transnational crime, which affects all countries around the world. Therefore, cooperation between each other in various forms, both bilateral and multilateral is considered an important mechanism for effectively preventing transnational corruption of all kinds,” said the NACC secretary-general.

He further elaborated that the NACC has collaboration with enforcement agencies from the Nordic countries in both bilateral and multilateral. It has a memorandum of understanding between each other to exchange legal information, coordinate cases, as well as academic cooperation in particular, the sharing of knowledge and anti-corruption practices which is beneficial to raising the level of the Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) of Thailand. This tie collaboration will help promote the prevention and suppression of corruption in Thailand more effectively.

Furthermore, under the cooperation, both sides discussed and exchanged information on international cooperation in criminal matters related to corruption cases between Thailand and the Nordic countries. Denmark has expressed great interest in the NACC’s corruption prosecutions and is willing to cooperate in solving transnational corruption cases, while also exchanging information that is beneficial to the fight against corruption.

Mr. Niwatchai concluded that the NACC has given great importance to strengthening and expanding the network of cooperation with law enforcement agencies of various countries to deal with transnational corruption continuously. Presently, the NACC, in Thailand has made memoranda of understanding with 25 law enforcement agencies and international organizations, including nine ASEAN countries, the Ministry of Supervision of China, the Independent Authority against Corruption of Mongolia, the Anti-Corruption Commission of Bhutan, the Independent Commission Against Corruption of Australia, the Oversight and Anti-Corruption Authority of Saudi Arabia, the Police Presidium of the Czech Republic, Federal Ministry of the Interior of Austria, Investigative Committee of the Russian Federation, International Department of the National Crime Agency of the United Kingdom, and Office of the Comptroller General of Brazil, as well as World Bank, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), International Anti-Corruption Academy (IACA), Basel Institute on Governance, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the UN International Organization for Migration (IOM).

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*This exclusive interview translation is funded by the National Anti-Corruption Fund (NACF).

Hashtag: #IntegrityWay #AntiCorruption #ZeroCorruption #NACC #NACF

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

National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC), Thailand

The National Anti-Corruption Commission (NACC) is a constitutional independent organization and supervised by nine commissioners selected from various professions. It is authorized to undertake work on the prevention and suppression of malfeasance, particularly in government agencies, on assets investigations, as well as on the monitoring of ethics and virtues of political position holders.

It has the authority to file charges in court as well as support and build up awareness of the penalties for committing corruption. The NACC is supervised by the NACC Board and has the Office of the NACC as its administrative agency.

Since 1997, Thai Courts have ruled against and punished politicians, former ministers, high-ranking government officials as well as executives of the private sector in the thousands of cases submitted by the NACC.

ROSEN, A LONGSTANDING LAW FIRM, Encourages Brooge Energy Limited Investors to Secure Counsel Before Important April 5 Deadline in Securities Class Action Commenced by the Firm – BROG

New York, New York – Newsfile Corp. – March 24, 2024 – WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of the securities of Brooge Energy Limited f/k/a Brooge Holdings Limited f/k/a Twelve Seas Investment Company (NASDAQ: BROG) between November 25, 2019 and December 21, 2023, both dates inclusive (the “Class Period”), of the important April 5, 2024 lead plaintiff deadline in the securities class action first filed by the Firm.

SO WHAT: If you purchased Brooge securities during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.

WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Brooge class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=21430 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than April 5, 2024. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.

WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources, or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs’ Bar. Many of the firm’s attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, defendants throughout the Class Period made materially false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose that: (1) Brooge materially overstated its revenues because it never received any revenues from Al Brooge International Advisory LLC (“BIA”), as well as another fictitious customer; (2) Brooge engaged in a complex pattern of payments with BIA to create the illusion of revenues from BIA and another customer that had no knowledge of the fraud; (3) Brooge intentionally lied to its auditors and the Securities and Exchange Commission about its fraudulent activities; (4) Brooge lacked internal controls; and (5) as a result, defendants’ statements about its business, operations, and prospects, were materially false and misleading and/or lacked a reasonable basis at all relevant times. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.

To join the Brooge class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=21430 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.

No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investor’s ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm or on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm.

Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm’s attorneys are ranked and recognized by numerous independent and respected sources. Rosen Law Firm has secured hundreds of millions of dollars for investors.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

——————————-

Contact Information:

Laurence Rosen, Esq.
Phillip Kim, Esq.
The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.
275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor
New York, NY 10016
Tel: (212) 686-1060
Toll Free: (866) 767-3653
Fax: (212) 202-3827
case@rosenlegal.com
www.rosenlegal.com

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

Re–Live Pia Wurtzbach’s Crowning Glory With Her Wax Figure in Madame Tussauds Singapore


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 March 2024 – Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach is making waves in Singapore with the arrival of her wax figure at Madame Tussauds Singapore for a limited time only. The multifaceted queen, who is now also a successful actress, host, and entrepreneur, first made history in 2019 as the first Filipino wax figure to be featured in Madame Tussauds.

MTSG Pia Wurtzbach Wax Figure Launch 1

Since then, Pia has also launched her debut novel, Queen of the Universe, became a TEDx speaker on mental health, and featured Singapore on her TV program, Pia’s Postcards. The course of her career post-Miss Universe has proven to chart a brilliant incline, it’s no wonder that fans are calling for her wax figure to be featured at Madame Tussauds Singapore. Many hope to see Pia’s figure, who wears a replica of the iconic Swarovski-embellished royal blue ball gown by Michael Cinco, which she wore when she passed on the crown in 2016.

Pia herself is thrilled and grateful for the opportunity to reach more people with her wax figure, whom she fondly refers to as P2. “I’ll never forget the first time I saw my wax figure by Madame Tussauds. It was a bit shocking and thrilling at the same time, and the unveiling was the highlight of my life. I’m excited that I get to share another moment with P2 and have fun with my fans, this time in Singapore. I hope they enjoy interacting with my ‘twin’ and getting their own crowning moment.”

Her popularity is testament to how her work has inspired many —a fact acknowledged by Madame Tussauds Singapore. “Pia is an outstanding woman who has made many achievements in life,” shared Elaine Quek, Head of Sales, and Marketing at Madame Tussauds Singapore. “We know there are many Pia fans out there who would like to see the queen up close. We are happy to have her figure at our attraction and hope many would take this opportunity to not only witness the amazing likeness, but also admire the craftsmanship that had a hand in making the figure.”

MTSG Pia Wurtzbach Wax Figure Launch 2

To celebrate this moment with Pia’s fans, Madame Tussauds Singapore partnered with Klook – world leading travel and activities booking platform, Philippine Airlines, and Resorts World Sentosa – Asia’s premium lifestyle destination resort. Fans visiting Singapore can expect to enjoy a host of exciting experiences throughout their journey. Guests can also enjoy a special “Queen” promotion on Klook which includes admission to Madame Tussauds and a copy of Pia’s novel, Queen of the Universe.

Pia’s wax figure is currently available for viewing from 24th March to 1st September at Madame Tussauds Singapore, among many other strong female personalities such as Dua Lipa, Michelle Yeoh, Serena Williams, Audrey Hepburn and more. For more information on our exciting range of interactive experiences, visit madametussauds.com/Singapore.

Madame Tussauds Singapore celebrates her 10th year anniversary this year and is kicking off celebrations with a slew of exciting figure launches, activities, and promotions throughout the year. To stay updated on our upcoming launches, follow Madame Tussauds Singapore on Facebook, @mtssingapore on Instagram, @MTsSingapore on X, and @TussaudsSingapore on YouTube.

Hashtag: #MadameTussaudsSingapore




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

Madame Tussauds Singapore

Located at Imbiah Lookout, Sentosa, Madame Tussauds Singapore opened in October 2014, and features variety of interactive experiences under one roof; from Madame Tussauds Singapore to Images of Singapore, to “Spirit of Singapore” boat ride – the only Madame Tussauds site to have a boat ride, the Marvel Universe 4D Cinema, and lastly the Ultimate Film Star Experience! Featuring 12 incredible zones from glamourous Hollywood actors to your favorite K-pop stars, artists, musicians and sports heroes, the incredible Madame Tussauds Singapore houses over 80 wax figures. The gallery of wonder is so much more than an exciting attraction – where guests will get to experience our immersive and interactive technologies at every corner!

Madame Tussauds Singapore welcomes guests from 10am to 6pm daily (final admission at 5pm). For ticket enquiries, please call (65) 6715 4000 or visit .

About Klook

Klook is Asia’s leading platform for experiences and travel services. We curate quality experiences ranging from attractions, tours to local transport and accommodation all around the world. Founded in 2014, we are here to inspire and enable more moments of joy for travelers anytime, anywhere.

About Resorts World Sentosa

Resorts World Sentosa (RWS), Asia’s premium lifestyle destination resort, is located on Singapore’s resort island of Sentosa. Spanning 49 hectares, RWS is home to world-class attractions including Universal Studios Singapore, S.E.A. Aquarium, Dolphin Island and Adventure Cove Waterpark. Complementing the adventure and adrenaline of its theme parks and attractions are six unique luxury hotels, the premier Resorts World Convention Centre, and a casino. RWS offers award-winning dining experiences and exciting cuisines from around the world helmed by celebrity chefs, establishing itself as a key player in Singapore’s vibrant and diverse dining scene and a leading gourmet destination in Asia for epicureans. The integrated resort also offers world-class entertainment, from star-studded concerts to immersive exhibitions. RWS is the first integrated resort to be inducted into the TTG Travel Hall of Fame in 2023 after being named “Best Integrated Resort” for 10 consecutive years at the TTG Travel Awards, which recognises the best of Asia-Pacific’s travel industry.

Best Mart 360 Announces Results for the 9 Months Ended December 2023

Proposed a final dividend of HK6.0 cents per share


Highlights:

  • Revenue recorded approximately HK$1,930.8 million.
  • Gross profit recorded approximately HK$694.3 million.
  • Operating profit recorded approximately HK$213.6 million.
  • Profit attributable to owners of the Company recorded approximately HK$168.3 million.
  • As at 31 December 2023, the Group operated a total of 167 chain retail stores, including 159 retail stores in Hong Kong, 7 retail stores in Macau and 1 retail store in Mainland China.
  • Basic earnings per share was approximately HK16.8 cents. The Board recommended the payment of final dividend of HK6.0 cents per share.

Financial Highlights:

HK$’000 Nine months
ended 31 Dec 2023
Year ended
31 Mar 2023
Revenue 1,930,831 2,305,907
Gross profit 694,258 817,263
Gross profit margin 36.0% 35.4%
Operating profit 213,644 248,921
Profit attributable to owners of the Company 168,335 200,997
Basic earnings per share (HK cents) 16.8 20.1

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 March 2024 – Best Mart 360 Holdings Limited (“Best Mart 360” or the “Company”, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”; stock code: 2360.HK), a leisure food retailer in Hong Kong, announced its results for the nine months ended 31 December 2023 (“the Financial Period under Review”). As the Company changes the financial year end date from 31 March to 31 December, which is different from the length of the previous reporting period, the audited comparative figures may not be fully comparable.

During the Financial Period under Review, the revenue recorded by the Group amounted to approximately HK$1,930,831,000, representing a period-on-period increase of approximately 17.3% as compared with the unaudited revenue of same nine-month period in 2022. During the Financial Period under Review, the Group recorded an approximately 3.4% growth in same store sales performance (for the year ended 31 March 2023: approximately 2.5% growth).

During the Financial Period under Review, gross profit was approximately HK$694,258,000, compared with the gross profit of approximately HK$817,263,000 for the year ended 31 March 2023. The Group’s gross profit margin for the nine months ended 31 December 2023 was approximately 36.0%, representing an increase of 0.6 percentage points compared with 35.4% for the year ended 31 March 2023.

Profit attributable to owners of the Company was approximately HK$168,335,000 (for the year ended 31 March 2023: approximately HK$200,997,000). The Group’s net profit margin was approximately 8.7% for both the nine months ended 31 December 2023 and the year ended 31 March 2023.

During the Financial Period under Review, basic earnings per share was approximately HK16.8 cents (for the year ended 31 March 2023: HK20.1 cents).

BUSINESS REVIEW

19 new retail stores & increase footprint in residential areas

As at 31 December 2023, the Group operated a total of 167 chain retail stores (31 March 2023: 154 stores), including 159 chain retail stores (31 March 2023: 145 stores) in Hong Kong, 7 chain retail stores (31 March 2023: 7 stores) in Macau and 1 chain retail store (31 March 2023: 2 stores) in Mainland China, respectively. During the Financial Period under Review, the Group opened 19 new retail stores, and closed 6 stores upon expiration of their respective lease terms in alignment with the optimisation of the Group’s store opening strategy.

Rental expense (cash basis) for retail stores was approximately HK$183,154,000 for the nine months ended 31 December 2023 (for the year ended 31 March 2023: approximately HK$220,230,000). The ratio of rental expense (cash basis) to sales revenue of retail stores for the nine months ended 31 December 2023 was approximately 9.5%, which was lower than that of approximately 9.6% for the year ended 31 March 2023.

Kept optimising product mix & enhancing the development of private label products

During the Financial Period under Review, the Group continued its global procurement policy and mission by sourcing broad spectrum of products worldwide that meet and satisfy market trend and demand. To better cater to the needs of the local community and the international travellers, the Group further strengthened the supply of basic foodstuffs such as cereals, noodles, canned food, milk, chilled and frozen food, daily necessities and basic grocery products. In addition, the Group continued to strengthen its private label sales in retail stores, including nuts and dried fruits, organic grains, wet tissues, canned food, biscuits and snacks, etc., providing consumers with more diversified choices.

For the nine months ended 31 December 2023, the Group offered a total of 3,724 stock keeping units (“SKUs”) of products (for the year ended 31 March 2023: 3,770 SKUs) from suppliers principally from overseas markets, and brand owners or importers in Hong Kong, with product origins mainly from, among others, Japan, Korea, the United States, Europe, Australia, Vietnam and Thailand, as well as other Asia-Pacific countries. The Group sourced the most popular and trendy food products from these countries or regions to offer a globally-diversified, multi-brand and multi-category selection for every customer.

As at 31 December 2023, the total amount of inventories of the Group amounted to approximately HK$276,691,000 (31 March 2023: approximately HK$244,219,000), representing an increase of approximately 13.3%. The increase in the Group’s total amount of inventories was mainly due to an increase in the number of retail stores and preparation for increased demand during the peak sales season in the coming quarter.

During the Financial Period under Review, the Group continued to actively develop private label products that on one hand allow the Group to capture advantages of pricing and exercise higher level of quality control on its products and on the other hand further uplift its brand awareness and strengthen customers’ loyalty. For the nine months ended 31 December 2023, sales derived from private label products was approximately HK$305,520,000 which accounted for approximately 15.8% of the revenue of the Group for the nine months ended 31 December 2023, as compared to approximately HK$346,352,000 for the year ended 31 March 2023, which accounted for approximately 15.0% of the revenue of the Group for the year ended 31 March 2023, representing an increase of approximately 0.8%. During the Financial Period under Review, the Group has launched an aggregate of 11 private labels, and the products for sale included nuts and dried fruits, organic grains, wet tissues, canned food, biscuits and snacks, etc.

Expanded the customer base & Launched marketing activities timely

In order to further deepen customer stickiness and expand customers’ coverage, the Group used big data analysis and reformulated its marketing strategy to launch a new three-tier membership scheme and a second-generation mobile app in 2020. The new membership scheme helps to elevate brand positioning and market recognition, and the membership rewards have been fully optimised and enhanced, with more member benefits such as multiple items purchase stamp reward, special offers for selected products and access to latest market information. Through diversified marketing strategies, the Group aims to internally strengthen the membership core from within and attract new customers through external expansion, so as to effectively and purposefully foster the ties between members and the Group, thereby driving recurring business from members and promoting sustainable growth of the Group’s business.

During the Financial Period under Review, the number of the Group’s members increased from approximately 2,059,688 as at 31 March 2023 to approximately 2,123,356 as at 31 December 2023, representing an increase of approximately 3%.

The year 2023 marked the 10th anniversary of the Group’s establishment. The Group conducted various marketing and promotional activities during the Financial Period under Review, including the “Super Best Price (超級至優價)” promotional campaign, which provided customers with a series of special offers for selected quality products to express our gratitude for our customers’ support over the years and to enhance customer loyalty. Meanwhile, the Group continued to advertise through television, newspapers, social media platforms and other media, which successfully obtained repeat customers, attracted new customers and greatly promoted the discussions about the Group in the market.

PROSPECTS

In order to enhance business operational profits, the Group will continue to review the regional distribution of its brand stores, adjust its store mix through appropriate expansion policies and appropriate leasing strategies, and look for suitable opportunities to expand the store network of its major retail brands “Best Mart 360° ” and global gourmet store “FoodVille” in Hong Kong and Macau, with a target of achieving a net increase of 15 retail stores each year to satisfy the demand of different customer segments for quality food products with the pattern of dual-brand. The “Best Mart 360° ” brand will focus on serving residential areas, and the Group will continue to optimize the geographical distribution of its stores, review the spatial layout and store expansion opportunities of its existing retail stores, enhance store sales efficiency and provide customers with a more comfortable shopping experience; while “FoodVille” targets large and medium-to-high-end shopping malls in Hong Kong as well as stores with larger area and high customer traffic and density so as to further differentiate the two brands.

The Group introduced China Merchants Hoi Tung Trading Company Limited (“CMHT”) as a substantial shareholder during the Financial Period under Review, providing substantial strategic support to the Group and synergy maximization for the sustainable growth of the Group. The Group will continue to uphold its business mission in offering products with the “Best Quality” and “Best Price” to its customers, adhere to the concept of global sourcing. Through leveraging the extensive cooperation network and resources of CMHT, the Group is committed to explore more upstream suppliers, thus endeavoring to improve its supply chain, optimise its sales categories and maintain its price competitiveness. Furthermore, the Group will proactively source a diversified range of food products worldwide as well as step up the development of its private label products, aiming not only to satisfy market demand for daily necessities but also to provide customers with a broader range of choices.

On the other hand, the Group has entered into a sales and procurement framework agreement with CMHT and will sell products to and purchase products from CMHT and its subsidiaries in FY2024. The Board believes that through CMHT’s robust network of food importers and distributors, the Group will strengthen its procurement and business-to-business (B2B) operations, and provide a more diversified range of imported products and private label products of the Group to customers and other retailers in Hong Kong, online stores and even merchants or enterprises in overseas markets, enriching the Group’s streams of revenue and expanding its potential customer base.

Mr. Hui Chi Kwan, Chief Executive Officer of the Group, said, “Along with the change in the consumption pattern of tourists after pandemic, the retail industry is still facing the unpredictable business enviornment. We will continuously optimize our products mix and retail shop distribution to align with consumer needs so as to make the peaks higher and bring greater returns for the shareholders of the Group.”

Hashtag: #BestMart360

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

About Best Mart 360 Holdings Limited

Best Mart 360 Holdings Limited operates chain retail stores under the brand “Best Mart 360˚”, offering wide selection of imported and pre-packaged leisure foods and other grocery products principally from overseas. It is the Group’s business objective to offer “Best Quality” and “Best Price” products to customers through continuous efforts on global procurement with a mission to provide comfortable shopping environment and pleasurable shopping experience to customers. As at 31 December 2023, the Group operated a total of 167 chain retail stores, spanning all of the 18 districts in Hong Kong and strategic locations with heavy pedestrian flow in Macau and Mainland China. Among the chain retail stores, the global gourmet brand “FoodVille” launched in September 2021 is also included, targeting the medium-to-high-end-market.