HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2024 – Henderson Sunlight Asset Management Limited (the “Manager“) is pleased to announce that Sunlight REIT has achieved a four-star rating in the 2024 GRESB Real Estate Assessment (“GRESB Assessment“), the leading global environmental, social and governance (“ESG“) benchmark in the real estate sector.
Mr. Wu Shiu Kee, Keith, Chief Executive Officer of the Manager, said, “We are delighted and honoured to have received a four-star rating in the latest GRESB Assessment – this recognition is a testament to the Manager’s unwavering commitment and ability to advance sustainability by integrating ESG values into the management and operations of Sunlight REIT. As a responsible landlord, we will continue to adhere to the overriding principle of striking a balance between profit, planet and people, and will strive to foster a culture of care and innovation to transit into a low-carbon economy and to create shared values for our stakeholders.”
Incidental to the change of financial year end date of Sunlight REIT from 30 June to 31 December, the next sustainability report of Sunlight REIT will cover an 18-month period from 1 July 2023 to 31 December 2024. To keep stakeholders abreast of the latest progress, the Manager will shortly upload an interim sustainability review to the corporate website of Sunlight REIT, providing a snapshot of the sustainability performance of Sunlight REIT for the 12 months ended 30 June 2024.
GRESB is a mission-driven and industry-led organization which provides a rigorous methodology and consistent framework to measure the ESG performance of real estate assets and portfolios. In 2023, more than 2,000 property companies, REITs, funds and developers with US7.2 trillion in assets participated, covering over 170,000 assets across 75 countries. Sunlight REIT has participated in GRESB Assessment since 2022. Hashtag: #SunlightREIT #REIT
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Sunlight REIT
Listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited since 21 December 2006, Sunlight REIT (stock code: 435) is a real estate investment trust authorized by the Securities and Futures Commission and constituted by the trust deed dated 26 May 2006 (as amended and restated) (the “Trust Deed“). It offers investors the opportunity to invest in a diversified portfolio of 11 office and six retail properties in Hong Kong with a total gross rentable area of approximately 1.3 million sq. ft.. The office properties are located in both core and decentralized business areas, while the retail properties are situated in regional transportation hubs, new towns and urban areas with high population density.
About the Manager
The Manager of Sunlight REIT is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of Henderson Land Development Company Limited. Its main responsibility is to manage Sunlight REIT and all of its assets in accordance with the Trust Deed in the sole interest of its unitholders.
Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone hands over the ASEAN Chairmanship gavel to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim during the closing ceremony of the 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits in Vientiane (Photo Credit: Bernama)
The 44th and 45th ASEAN Summits, held from 6-11 October in Vientiane, concluded with key agreements aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and addressing global challenges, alongside a leadership transition to Malaysia.
A total of sixteen meetings brought together leaders from ASEAN member states and external partners, including Australia, Canada, China, South Korea, India, Japan, New Zealand, Russia, and the United States, among others.
Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, as ASEAN Chair for 2024, led discussions that resulted in the adoption of over 90 outcome documents. These documents addressed key areas such as regional security, economic cooperation, sustainable development, and digital transformation.
Key Outcomes and External Cooperation
Among the adopted documents were the ASEAN Leaders’ Declaration on Strengthening Supply Chain Connectivity, the ASEAN Declaration on Promoting Sustainable Agriculture, and the Declaration on Strengthening Regional Biosafety and Biosecurity.
Additionally, leaders endorsed the Strategic Plans to Implement the ASEAN Community Vision 2045, which will guide ASEAN’s long-term goals for a resilient, innovative, and people-centered community.
The summits also reaffirmed ASEAN’s commitment to resolving the Myanmar crisis through the Five-Point Consensus, while acknowledging progress in Timor-Leste’s path toward ASEAN membership.
ASEAN also strengthened its relations with partners, resulting in several agreements, including the ASEAN-China Joint Statements on combating telecommunications fraud, advancing smart agriculture, and facilitating cooperation in digital ecosystems, along with negotiations to upgrade the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area 3.0. The ASEAN-Republic of Korea Summit elevated bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, while the ASEAN-India Summit emphasized digital transformation and collaboration under India’s Act East Policy. The ASEAN-Canada Special Summit adopted a joint statement focused on enhancing connectivity and resilience.
At the closing ceremony, Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone handed over the ASEAN Chairmanship gavel to Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who will lead ASEAN in 2025 under the theme ‘Inclusivity and Sustainability.’ Laos’ chairmanship will officially conclude on 31 December.
On 11 October, Laos hosted the “Capital Links Forum” at the Souphattra Hotel in Vientiane, bringing together financial institutions, investors, policymakers, and fintech innovators. The event focused on the significant barriers hindering capital mobilization in the country, sparking critical discussions about how to unlock Laos’s economic potential.
Laos has long been an attractive economic and infrastructure partner for its neighbors, thanks to its strategic location in Southeast Asia. Many see great potential in Laos as a connecting hub for regional trade and investment. Recent initiatives, such as the “Land Locked to Land Linked” project—part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative—aim to enhance infrastructure and promote economic integration within the ASEAN region.
“The first time I came (to Laos), over a decade ago, there wasn’t much infrastructure development,” said Hongwei Wang, CEO of CGIF, a collaboration project involving ASEAN +3 and the Asian Development Bank. “Importing goods was challenging. Now, improved connectivity makes a big difference.”
Despite these advancements in physical connectivity, the financial landscape remains underdeveloped, especially in rural areas. Many residents lack access to formal banking services, resulting in what participants at the event referred to as a “capital lock.” This phenomenon restricts the efficient flow of investments that are vital for unlocking Laos’s economic potential.
In this context, Wang emphasized the importance of establishing a local currency bond market, which is essential for initiating the country’s first steps in bond issuance. One crucial aspect of Laos’s economic development is the establishment of a local currency bond market, Wang explained.
Issuers in this market must meet specific criteria, but the advantages are substantial, according to Wang. With this in mind, CGIF’s support includes significant credit investments, allowing issuers to raise large amounts of capital. Previously, bonds could only be issued for up to three years; now, they can extend to five years. This extension is expected to positively impact the country’s economy in the long run, providing more stability and opportunities for growth.
“A larger investment base provides users with more opportunities. As we pursue this work, it’s essential to adhere to social and environmental standards, which is a crucial aspect of our mission,” Wang said. “What we offer to investors is an unconditional guarantee. This means that investors are 100 percent protected, no matter the circumstances. This level of security is one of the key benefits we provide.”
GCIF aims to contribute to regional financial integration through this project.
Capital Links Forum, 11 October. (Photo supplied)
Addressing Financial Accessibility, Innovation
Throughout the day, attendees engaged in discussions about the challenges facing Laos’s financial sector. They highlighted the concentration of economic activity in Vientiane, which limits opportunities for development in other regions. Participants pointed out that an underdeveloped capital market, regulatory hurdles, and inadequate financial infrastructure are significant obstacles to attracting investment.
A major theme that emerged was the pressing need for improved access to financial services. Expanding banking facilities and financial products to underserved rural communities could foster greater economic participation and investment throughout the country.
“Blockchain may sound intimidating, but it’s something we engage with every day. It helps us simplify complex concepts. For example, in Thailand, we collaborate with specialists, and we’re currently building platforms that connect directly with customers,” said Vachara Aemavat, Co-founder and Co-CEO of SIX Network, he blockchain platform for reinventing the Digital Economy, and Co-founder of Computerlogy, a leading startup in Thailand that develops social media tools for enterprises, offering a variety of products such as social media analytics, command centers, and chatbots.
“Blockchain has been around for 5 to 10 years; we’re now in its second cycle. The real challenge is finding ways to generate revenue from this technology. While cryptocurrency appears significant, with around 3 million users, it’s still relatively small compared to the larger market,” he added.
In addition to identifying challenges, the event also brought up potential solutions, exploring successful financial products and innovative fintech solutions from other regions, emphasizing the importance of leveraging technology to enhance capital market connectivity. Discussions also focused on the impact of digital platforms on financial market efficiency, presenting a pathway for Laos to modernize its financial infrastructure.
Tech Path to Economic Resilience, Growth
As the tech startup scene gains momentum across the region, the qualities required for success are becoming clearer. Natavudh Pungcharoenpong, Founder and CEO of OOKBEE and Co-CEO of SIX Network, emphasized the importance of a strong entrepreneurial spirit.
“In the early stages, it’s not just about being a tech expert; the entrepreneur must be resilient and visionary,” he said. “You need the ability to attract talented individuals who share your vision. Having good people on your team is crucial.”
Natavudh also highlighted the necessity of financial acumen, “You need to secure funding to pay these talented individuals.”
According to the tech expert, vision, talent, and funding forms are the foundations for successful tech entrepreneurs.
Natavudh Pungcharoenpong speaking at a panel, Capital Links Forum, Vientiane, Laos, 11 October. (Photo supplied)
When discussing the pitfalls of tech entrepreneurship, Natavudh pointed to timing as a critical factor in a startup’s success.
“Launching at the right moment is vital, especially in a saturated market filled with innovative ideas and strong competition,” he explained.
Without sufficient funding, even the best ideas can falter. “Tech development takes time, and without adequate financial resources, many startups struggle to scale.” He advised aspiring entrepreneurs to ensure they have someone on their team who excels in fundraising, as this can be a decisive factor in overcoming the challenges of growth.
Natavudh also recognizes the importance of community and local connections in building a successful tech venture.
“The networking effect in local communities can be incredibly powerful. People know each other and are willing to help one another,” he notes. Drawing from his experiences in Thailand and Laos, he explains how collaborating with local entrepreneurs can offer a significant advantage.
However, he also recognizes the value of seeking external partnerships to broaden a startup’s reach.
“Given the smaller market size, working with outside investors or partners can be essential for growth,” he said.
The event’s alignment with the priorities of the ASEAN Business and Investment Summit 2024 strengthens Laos’s commitment to economic connectivity and resilience. As the nation transforms from a land-locked to a land-linked country, the discussions highlighted the crucial role of breaking down barriers to capital flow.
By addressing these financial challenges, Laos can better position itself as a key player in the ASEAN economy, attracting cross-border investments.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2024 – The AOC Masters 2024 “Born to Battle” local qualifiers have reached their conclusion, setting the stage for an exhilarating grand final event in Bangkok, Thailand. After months of intense competition spanning nine regions, anticipation for the ultimate Valorant showdown is at an all-time high.
AOC Masters 2024 “Born to Battle”
With over 400 players, including prominent influencers, participating in the regional qualifiers, the competition has been fierce. The top two elite players from each region will now head to the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center on October 19, 2024, competing in 1v1, 2v2, and team show matches for glory and a share of the impressive $30,000 prize pool.
The qualifiers were designed to bring out the best in each competitor. Players battled it out in Valorant’s Spike Rush mode during 1v1 matches, showcasing their skills in a best-of-three format over a series lasting up to 35 minutes. This structure ensured that only the strongest players would advance to the grand finals, amplifying the excitement for fans and players alike.
Advancing to the grand finals will include winners from Australia, Indonesia, Middle East and Africa, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam. Fans will be able to find their favourite KOLs participating in the event, such as Guzz and Zenox from Australia, Rissa Nicole Raymundo Grumal from the Philippines, NEO and Plumy from South Korea, 湘湘 Kanna and 早安嚕乙 Luyee from Taiwan, and Hanakoishi from Vietnam.
Fans and eSports enthusiasts can look forward to an electrifying series of matches that promise intense competition. Join AOC in celebrating the spirit of competition as players from around the globe prepare for the AOC Masters 2024 Grand Final. Don’t miss a moment of this exciting event at https://www.instagram.com/agonbyaocap/ .
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About AOC
Founded in 1967, AOC is a globally leading monitor and IT accessories brand and a subsidiary of TPV Technology Limited, the world’s largest LCD manufacturer. AOC’s comprehensive product portfolio provides innovative, ergonomic, environmentally conscious and stylish solutions for professional as well as personal applications.
The AGON by AOC sub-brand of offers one of the world’s strongest portfolios of high-performance gaming monitors, and a complete ecosystem of gaming accessories grouped in three categories: AOC GAMING for core gamers, AGON for competitive gamers, and AGON PRO for eSports enthusiasts and professional eSports players. Since 2020, AGON by AOC has been one of the leading gaming monitor brands and a top choice of gamers worldwide.
For more information, please refer to AGON by AOC’s official website or follow AGON by AOC on Facebook.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau of Canada made an official visit to the Mekong River Commission (MRC) headquarters in Vientiane, Laos, on 11 October, becoming the first head of government from an MRC Development Partner to visit the organization.
HANGZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2024 – Taobao and Tmall Group (“TTG”), Alibaba Group’s domestic commerce business, is kicking off its 16th 11.11 Global Shopping Festival (“11.11” or “Festival”) today by putting users first with unprecedented shopping incentives. TTG will offer RMB30 billion ( ~US$4.2 billion) worth of vouchers and red packets in anticipation of the record-high volume of users participating in this year’s Festival.
“This year’s 11.11 is unfolding as Chinese consumer sentiment is improving. TTG serves China’s largest and most valuable consumer base, and is well positioned to capture and further boost rising consumer confidence and activity,” Bo Liu, Vice President of Alibaba Group and President of Tmall, said. “We are making unprecedented investments to incentivize our users and support our brands and merchants to drive high-quality growth. We are excited about the high level of merchant participation and robust product offerings, which have exceeded expectations. We have strong confidence in branded products sales growth this 11.11.”
The presale of 11.11 will begin at 8:00 p.m. Beijing time on October 14. There will be two checkout periods: the first one from 8:00 p.m. on October 21 until the end of the day on October 24 and the second one from 8:00 p.m. on October 31 until the end of the day on November 11.
For consumers: doubling down on 88VIP membership
Driven by our user-first strategy, TTG is accelerating user investment this 11.11. The platforms will offer RMB30 billion worth of spending incentives through coupons and red packets, on top of a 15% discount and “RMB50 off every RMB300” promotion.
TTG will double down on exclusive benefits and services for its 88VIP members, currently the largest paid e-commerce membership in China with over 42 million paying members. 88VIPs will receive exclusive high-value coupons, the total value of which will be greater than the RMB20 billion distributed last year. They will also enjoy exclusive interest-free installment payment privileges and premium return service.
The value and frequency of product categories vouchers and red packets distributions will progressively increase throughout the Festival. For example, Taobao Live, the live-streaming commerce channel, will distribute RMB2 billion worth of red packets in conjunction with merchants and partners. Each user can collect up to RMB1,500 daily across the live stream rooms.
The RMB10 Billion Subsidy program features the best deals for branded products and offers discounts of up to 80% off. To date, this program has over 500 million active users.
User experience has been further improved this 11.11 with easy-to-understand product information and a new payment option. TTG team will work with merchants to ensure simplified pricing on the product listing page so users can easily see the final sale price. The introduction of WeChat Pay in late September also offers mainland China users an additional payment option for their purchases.
For merchants: Robust measures to capture the most significant growth opportunities
This year’s Festival will host around 300,000 brands and a multitude of SME merchants, with the number of products on offer exceeding expectations. In the September quarter, the number of newly launched brands on Tmall increased by 70% quarter-over-quarter. This is a strong testimonial for TTG’s latest industry-leading support initiatives to help merchants achieve quality growth within a cost-efficient and optimized operating environment.
For this 11.11, TTG will invest RMB10 billion to boost cross-platform traffic and RMB3 billion to subsidize merchants’ marketing costs. Commissions will be waived for Taobao store owners participating in 11.11.
These investments are in addition to previously announced merchant support initiatives introduced ahead of the Festival, including:
Optimization of “refund-only” policy: Since the launch of the upgraded policy in August, Taobao has intercepted over 400,000 unreasonable “refund-only” transactions daily. At the same time, the proportion of merchants with high Store Experience Scores (4.8 or above) has increased to 36%. The increase in high-quality merchants has reduced Taobao’s intervention for refund-only scenarios.
Reduction in Return Logistics Costs:Tuihuobao, a new return service launched in September, has served ~1 million merchants. It has reduced merchant return order logistics costs by 23% in the past week. TTG will also offer discounts for SMEs during this 11.11, further reducing their logistics costs for return orders.
Upgraded AI Tools for Merchants: The AI-powered analytics platform Business Advisor has served over three million Taobao SMEs since April. TTG’s AI tools for image and text generation are frequently used by over one million merchants weekly. 74% of merchants using TTG’s AI image generation tools have reported savings equivalent to hiring a full-time graphics designer.
Hashtag: #Double11 #TaobaoTmall #TTG #Alibaba
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Miniverse by Energea emphasizes ultimate portability and functionality for today’s charging needs.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2024 – Energea, a Singapore-based company specializing in innovative power solutions and lifestyle tech products, proudly announces its Innovative Tech Kit: Miniverse. This compact and versatile mini kit is designed to meet the needs of digital natives on the go, offering practical and stylish options for charging in today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world.
Energea’s Miniverse Tech Kit
The Evolving Tech Gadgets Market With 61% of people now owning a smart device, smartphones, smartwatches, and earphones have become essential companions in today’s digital landscape. However, traditional accessories, such as power banks, wall chargers, and cables, can often be bulky and inconvenient. This has led to a consumer shift towards portable, lightweight charging solutions that prioritize convenience while maintaining functionality.
Miniverse: Power Gadgets for Modern Nomads Miniverse is Energea’s response to the growing demand for convenient and versatile gadgets. Featuring the tagline “Power Made Mini,” the tech kit aims to demonstrate that users can maintain device power without bulky chargers.
Miniverse comprises of three “ultra-portable” components within a single box, including:
Alupac Mini
The Alupac Mini is an ultra-compact, 5,000mAh power bank with a credit card-sized design. It offers fast charging capabilities, including 20W USB-C charging, wireless charging for Android and iPhone devices at 15W and 7.5W, respectively, and simultaneous dual capabilities. Its portable size and durable aluminum finish make it a convenient choice for users.
AluCable 15cm
The AluCable 15cm is a versatile charging cable featuring four interchangeable connector types: 2 USB-C, Lightning, and USB-A. It has a full-metallic housing with anti-slip grip ribs for secure handling and a cable that supports up to 60W fast charging for efficient power delivery. The device also comes with a built-in magnet that allows the cable to fold and snap, as well as a rubber cover to protect connector heads.
AmpCharge GaN35 Wall Charger
The AmpCharge GaN35 is a compact wall charger, designed to be 60% smaller than standard 30W wall chargers. It utilizes GaNSmart Technology to optimize charging efficiency by minimizing energy loss due to heat. The charger supports Power Delivery (35W), PPS (33W), and Quick Charge 3.0. Additionally, the AmpCharge GaN35 automatically detects device power requirements to optimize charging speed, delivering 60% charge to an iPhone 14 Pro Max in 30 minutes and 80% charge to supported Android devices in 35 minutes. Safety features are also included to ensure secure usage across all supported mobile devices.
Miniverse: The Future of Charging Energea is committed to redefining the perception of uninspired tech accessories with the Miniverse series. With a mini tech kit that provides stylish functionality and versatility, users can stay connected and powered up wherever they go.
Discover Energea’s Miniverse today and select the best fit for your charging needs.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Energea Pte Ltd
Energea is a Singapore-based company offering power solutions and tech accessories that combine quality, functionality, and aesthetic appeal. With a global presence in 28 countries across APAC, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe regions, the brand aims to reshape the perception of tech accessories as purely functional, highlighting their role in enhancing daily life and empowering customers with innovative and hassle-free solutions. Energea is committed to long-term goals of continuous improvement to meet the evolving needs of consumers.
Vietnam has implemented and strengthened measures to enhance the quality and safety of its agricultural products, reinforcing the nation’s reputation in key markets and building consumer trust.
HA NOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 October 2024 – Chinese Premier Li Qiang and a delegation arrived in Hà Nội on October 12, 2024 for an official visit at the invitation of Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính. This visit highlights the positive exchanges between the two nations’ leaders and will open up many opportunities for greater cooperation in various fields, including agriculture.
Agriculture has always been a key area of focus for both governments. Recently, the leaders have expressed very open-minded views, facilitating the opening of official agricultural exports and enhancing agricultural trade, thereby promoting economic and trade cooperation between the two countries.
During the visit of Vietnam’s General Secretary and President Tô Lâm to China in August, the Chinese government affirmed its willingness to boost imports of Vietnamese agricultural products and facilitate trade promotion offices, creating favourable conditions for high-quality Vietnamese agricultural products into its market.
China’s high demand for quality Vietnamese agricultural products
At the 12th session of the Vietnam-China Economic and Trade Cooperation Committee in November 2023, Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao highlighted China’s strong demand for Vietnam’s high-quality agricultural goods.
During the Vietnamese Fruit Festival in China in September, Deputy Director of the Asian Affairs Department under China’s Ministry of Commerce emphasised that many Vietnamese fruits, including durians, dragon fruits, bananas and mangoes, have already established a strong presence in China’s 1.4 billion-strong market.
Food products produced in Vietnam, including coffee and pho, have also gained significant popularity among Chinese consumers.
Along with the implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement and the continuous upgrading of the China-ASEAN Free Trade Agreement, cooperation between the two countries in technology, standards and agricultural production has been developing more deeply.
With a population of over 1.4 billion and a rapidly growing middle class, China is a major market for many high-quality agricultural, forestry and aquatic products. However, Vietnam accounts for less than 5 per cent of China’s total import value of this group of products.
Given the growing consumer preference and demand for Vietnamese agricultural products and food, the opportunities for cooperation and increased exports of Vietnamese agricultural products are immense. This is a prime chance for Vietnamese businesses to expand their market share for high-quality agricultural, forestry and fishery products in China.
13 Vietnamese fruits are being exported to China. Of these, seven kinds of agricultural products have been exported under the form of signing the protocol, including watermelon, mangosteen, black jelly, fresh banana, fresh coconut, and sweet potato. In comparison, six traditional kinds of fruit have not yet been standardised by export protocols, including dragon fruit, rambutan, mango, litchi, longan and jackfruit. Separately, passion fruit and chilli are being exported on a pilot basis.
The Vietnam-China agricultural, forestry and fishery trade reached US$9.3 billion in the first seven months, an increase of 16.2 per cent year-on-year. These developments are crucial as agricultural products are a traditional commodity group and are integral to the livelihoods of millions of Vietnamese farmers.
Enhancing the quality to meet China’s import standards
To continue affirming the quality, reputation and market accessibility of Vietnamese agricultural products, Vietnam will enhance and monitor the quality of agricultural exports to meet China’s import requirements. The focus will be on regularly updating information on market demand and China’s regulations regarding quality standards, food safety and disease prevention, and strictly managing and supervising product quality and traceability to ensure compliance with Chinese regulations.
It also includes strengthening negotiations for official exports to ensure that agricultural, forestry and fishery products are standardised, consistent in quality, packaging, labelling, food safety, traceability and branded with logos and national trademarks. Moreover, standardising cross-border trade and frequently coordinating with China to address logistical bottlenecks are also issues of concern.
Vietnam has great agricultural potential, with many agricultural products highly favoured by Chinese consumers.
With a geographically advantageous location and competitive logistics, Vietnam’s fresh agricultural products, including vegetables, fruits and aquatic products can be transported to China in a short time, maintaining their natural quality and freshness. This provides Chinese consumers with access to high-quality agricultural products from Vietnam at reasonable prices.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
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