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Thailand Chooses House Speaker as Move Forward Party Tries to Secure Prime Minister Job

Thailand Chooses a House Speaker as the Move Forward Party Tries to Secure the Prime Minister Job
FILE - Leader of the Move Forward Party Pita Limjaroenrat, right, with leader of the Prachachat Party Wan Muhamad Noor Matha, left, talks to reporter before signing a memorandum of understanding on attempt to form a coalition government between the Move Forward Party and other parties during a news conference in Bangkok, Thailand, on May 22, 2023. Thailand's new government took a step closer to forming with the speaker of the House of Representative chosen Tuesday, July 4, in what has been an arduous task before the next prime minister is named. (AP Photo/Sakchai Lalit, File)ASSOCIATED PRESS

BANGKOK (AP) — Thailand’s new government took a step closer to forming with the speaker of the House of Representative chosen Tuesday in what has been an arduous task before the next prime minister is named.

Lao Govt Assists Over 47,000 Families to Move on From Opium Cultivation

Lao Gov. Supports 47,000 With Crops to Replace Opium Poppies
FILE: a field of opium poppy (photo: wallpaperflare)

The Lao government is collaborating with private companies to encourage residents in seven northern provinces to cultivate commercial crops instead of illegally growing opium poppies.

Hang Lung Supports the Strive and Rise Programme

Engaging Mentees in Job Shadowing at Peak Galleria and Community Services with a Social Enterprise

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 5 July 2023 – Hang Lung Properties (SEHK stock code: 00101) (the “Company” or “Hang Lung”) has actively responded to the Strive and Rise Programme launched by the Hong Kong SAR Government as a supporting organization. Recently, Hang Lung arranged job shadowing activities for mentees during a visit to Peak Galleria, accompanied by Hang Lung Strive and Rise mentors, to gain an in-depth understanding of the daily operations of the mall business and Hang Lung’s service philosophy of customer-centricity.

Mentees of the Strive and Rise Programme and mentors from the Hang Lung As One Volunteer Team visit Peak Galleria to learn about the daily operations of the mall, providing mentees valuable insights into the world of work
Mentees of the Strive and Rise Programme and mentors from the Hang Lung As One Volunteer Team visit Peak Galleria to learn about the daily operations of the mall, providing mentees valuable insights into the world of work

Highlights of the job shadowing session included hands-on experience of AI technology in the form of a cleaning robot; learning about the use of marketing and promotional activities to enhance customer experience; and going on a treasure hunt using the Hang Lung Malls app. The day concluded with a visit to Monopoly Dreams Hong Kong™, a Monopoly-themed attraction, and Go Museum, an immersive light and shadow art exhibition venue, both of which are located at Peak Galleria.

Mentees of the Strive and Rise Programme partcipiate in a job shadowing activity to learn about the daily work of different departments
Mentees of the Strive and Rise Programme partcipiate in a job shadowing activity to learn about the daily work of different departments

The mentees found the activity beneficial and thanked Hang Lung for the arrangement. Celia Wong, a mentor from Hang Lung Properties’ Development and Design Department, and Jessica Lam, a mentee, said the public seldom pays attention to the different positions of frontline staff in malls, and the job shadowing activity allowed them to understand the responsibilities of these positions. They were impressed by the variety of attentive services that Peak Galleria provides to customers – “The concierge does not only answer enquiries from visitors to the mall, but also provides information about touring the Peak to tourists and hikers, and wheelchairs, pet strollers, and rain gear to meet the needs of different customers. This enables us to gain insight into their ‘customer-centered’ service philosophy.”

Mentees of the Strive and Rise Programme and mentors from the Hang Lung As One Volunteer Team visit Joy Fusion, a social enterprise under the Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Welfare Council, to learn how social enterprises promote social inclusion and help people in recovery to learn new skills and find jobs
Mentees of the Strive and Rise Programme and mentors from the Hang Lung As One Volunteer Team visit Joy Fusion, a social enterprise under the Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Welfare Council, to learn how social enterprises promote social inclusion and help people in recovery to learn new skills and find jobs

Previously, mentees and mentors participated in a team-building activity at Joy Fusion, a social enterprise under the Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui Welfare Council. With the opportunity to get to know each other better through games and informal interactions, participants also learned that in addition to providing training and employment opportunities to people in recovery, social enterprises such as Joy Fusion also aim to build self-confidence and promote social inclusion through their work with those in need.

The Strive and Rise Programme aims to support underprivileged junior secondary school students through a tripartite partnership between the government, the business sector and the community, to help them broaden their horizons, reinforce their self-confidence and develop a positive outlook on life. This is in line with the Hang Lung We Do It Well philosophy that drives the company’s community investment initiatives with an emphasis on nurturing local talent, fulfilling social responsibilities such as supporting the underprivileged, and promoting diversity and inclusion. As one of the supporting organizations of the Strive and Rise Programme, Hang Lung has invited 40 employees and their friends and relatives to serve as mentors who will participate in a one-year mentorship programme to share their life experiences with the mentees.

Committed to empowering the diversified development of the young generation and cultivating their leadership, Hang Lung launched the “Hang Lung Future Women Leaders Program” in 2022, a nationwide community investment program that aims to unleash the potential and sharpen the competitive edge of young female university students. Since 2004, Hang Lung has also been the driving force behind the highly regarded biennial mathematics research competition for secondary school students in Hong Kong, the Hang Lung Mathematics Awards.

Hashtag: #HangLungProperties

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

About Hang Lung Properties

Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK stock code: 00101) creates compelling spaces that enrich lives. Headquartered in Hong Kong, Hang Lung Properties develops and manages a diversified portfolio of world-class properties in Hong Kong and the nine Mainland cities of Shanghai, Shenyang, Jinan, Wuxi, Tianjin, Dalian, Kunming, Wuhan and Hangzhou. With its luxury positioning under the “66” brand, the company’s Mainland portfolio has established its leading position as the “Pulse of the City”. Hang Lung Properties is recognized for leading the way in enhanced sustainability initiatives in real estate as it pursues sustainable growth by connecting customers and communities.

At Hang Lung Properties – We Do It Well.

For more information, please visit .

Vingroup and K-Sure sign MoU to accelerate business cooperation

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach – 5 July 2023 – Vingroup has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Korea Trade Insurance Corporation (K-Sure) within the Vietnam-Korea Economic Forum 2023 framework. The partnership’s objective is to enhance economic growth, foster trade collaboration, and boost the export competitiveness of both nations.

As per the Memorandum of Understanding, Vingroup and K-Sure will collaborate on Vingroup’s projects with Korean partners, trade insurance programs aimed at expanding into new markets, and exploring potential joint venture opportunities.

K-Sure will offer guarantee programs and support to Korean suppliers, construction, and engineering firms. This support aims to enable the seamless provision of products and services to Vingroup and its subsidiaries, including electric vehicle components, energy storage systems (such as batteries and other parts), construction equipment, construction management services, and the supply of components and parts.

In addition, K-Sure’s guarantee allows Korean investors to invest or form joint ventures with Vingroup or its subsidiaries, creating potential long-term business opportunities.

Vingroup and K-Sure will also explore the possibility of joint participation in projects and market development opportunities through K-Sure’s export and guarantee programs.

Speaking at the MOU presentation ceremony, Mr. Nguyen Viet Quang, Vice Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of Vingroup, said: “We are thrilled to sign an MOU with K-Sure during the official visit of the President of the Republic of Korea to Vietnam. Vingroup and K-Sure’s partnership will enhance trade and investment – two important focuses for our countries – accelerating commercial operations and expanding international production and export markets.”

Mr. Lee Inho – General Director of K-Sure, said: “Southeast Asia has significant growth potential, as well as an abundance of labor and resources. We are delighted to have a strategic partnership with Vingroup, one of the leading private conglomerates in the region, to strengthen Korea’s vital sectors and increase exports. We also expect to support Vingroup’s global market development and expansion, particularly in the green mobility revolution that both parties are pursuing.”

Korea Trade Insurance Corporation (K-Sure) was established in July 1992 upon the Trade Insurance Act to promote trade and overseas investment of Korean enterprises with the mission to boost national competitiveness. The cooperation with K-Sure affirms Vingroup’s efforts in continuously connecting with leading agencies and enterprises to jointly invest and develop our competencies in smart, innovative, and sustainable consumer products and services.

Hashtag: #Vingroup

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

About Vingroup

Established in 1993, Vingroup is one of the leading private conglomerates in the region and currently focuses on three main areas: Technology and Industry, Services, and Social Enterprise. Find out more about Vingroup at:

About Korea Trade Insurance Corporation

Korea Trade Insurance Corporation (K-Sure) was established in July 1992 upon the Trade Insurance Act to promote trade and overseas investment of Korean enterprises with the mission to boost national competitiveness. Find out more about K-Sure at:

Bokeo Police Seize 2.8 Million Meth Pills, Arrest 2 Suspects in Mekong River Border Bust

Tonpheung police in Bokeo province, detained two people for ferrying 2.8 million methamphetamine pills from Myanmar. (Photo: Lao Security Magazine)

Tonpheung police in Bokeo province detained two suspects last week for ferrying 2.8 million methamphetamine pills across the Mekong River from Myanmar.

TUMI Launches Immersive Essentially Beautiful Pop-Up in Seoul

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 5 July 2023 – TUMI is celebrating its Fall 2023 collection with a pop-up experience open to the public from July 3-15 at Seoul’s Lotte World Mall Atrium (1F). Taking inspiration from the signature contours and cutting-edge craftsmanship of the travel and lifestyle brand’s iconic 19 Degree hardside luggage, the immersive experience serves as the exclusive launch of the season’s full collection. Modern installations and artwork provide a stunning backdrop to the design and features of each new piece and highlight how true beauty lies in the details.

The Fall 2023 Essentially Beautiful Pop-Up at Seoul's Lotte World Mall Atrium (1F). Opens daily at 10:30 - 22:00 from July 3 to 15, 2023
The Fall 2023 Essentially Beautiful Pop-Up at Seoul’s Lotte World Mall Atrium (1F). Opens daily at 10:30 – 22:00 from July 3 to 15, 2023


Both design excellence and performance luxury are integral to TUMI’s DNA, resulting in products that not only look good but also exceed expectations when it comes to function, durability and sustainability. The Fall 2023 Essentially Beautiful Pop-Up brings these elements together with a sculptural facade styled after the contours of the TUMI 19 Degree Aluminum and a series of installations that explore the creative and cultural universe of TUMI’s Hypercraft design concept. Defined as being hyper-focused on quality and high performance through elevated craftsmanship and innovation, Hypercraft perfectly characterizes TUMI’s approach to design and sets the tone for this must-see pop-up.

South Korean pro footballer and TUMI Crew member Son Heung-min attended the Fall 2023 Essentially Beautiful Pop-Up’s launch event on July 3, 2023
South Korean pro footballer and TUMI Crew member Son Heung-min attended the Fall 2023 Essentially Beautiful Pop-Up’s launch event on July 3, 2023

One of the key highlights of the pop-up is a locker-inspired display featuring collectibles and merchandise signed by South Korean pro footballer and TUMI Crew member Son Heung-min. Another zone dedicated to the modern Tegra-Lite® collection features a tunnel crafted of colored Tegris, the exceptionally strong material used in hardside pieces, that makes for a unique photo opportunity.

The TUMI Hypercraft Sculpture paying tribute to TUMI's iconic 19 Degree design
The TUMI Hypercraft Sculpture paying tribute to TUMI’s iconic 19 Degree design

Perhaps most striking is the multidirectional perspective sculpture by American artist and Perceptual Art pioneer Michael Murphy that pays tribute to TUMI’s iconic 19 Degree design. The artwork, titled TUMI Hypercraft Sculpture, made of seemingly disorganized suspended elements, takes pride of place in the center of the pop-up and plays on the viewer’s perception, creating an illusion of a 19 Degree Aluminum piece morphing into the TUMI logo letter “T” as you walk around it.

The pop-up experience also highlights TUMI’s latest collection launch, Alpha X, and the innovative material that makes it even more durable than the signature Alpha. The display uses the collection’s raw material to create an eye-catching Alpha X-themed wall.

“We’re thrilled to be presenting a manifestation of our brand and the Fall 2023 collection through the Fall 2023 Essentially Beautiful Pop-Up,” said Victor Sanz, Creative Director, TUMI. “TUMI’s relentless pursuit of excellence and passion for what we do is displayed beautifully through the installations. Collaborating with Michael Murphy and Son Heung-min underlines our obsession with finding beauty in the details and constantly elevating performance.”

“I’m thrilled to be a part of TUMI’s pop-up – and even more so that we’re in my home country. Excited that everyone gets to experience the Essentially Beautiful campaign in this special place,” said Son Heung-min.

Opening festivities kicked off with a private VIP event alongside a guest appearance by Son Heung-min greeting the attending media and TUMI fans.

Visit the TUMI Fall 2023 Essentially Beautiful Pop-Up from July 3-15, 2023, between 10:30-22:00 at Lotte World Mall Atrium (1F) and discover the full Fall 2023 collection at TUMI.com.

Hashtag: #TUMI

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

About TUMI

Since 1975, TUMI has been creating world-class business, travel and performance luxury essentials, designed to upgrade, uncomplicate and beautify all aspects of life on the move. Blending flawless functionality with a spirit of ingenuity, we’re committed to empowering journeys as a lifelong partner to movers and makers in pursuit of their passions.

For more about TUMI, visit TUMI.com

TUMI and TUMI logo are registered trademarks of Tumi, Inc. © 2023 Tumi, Inc.

Experience First-hand the Best in Baby & Children Products at Mothercare Singapore’s Baby & Kids Fair 2023

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 5 July 2023 – Mothercare Singapore sets the stage for its largest-ever Baby & Kids Fair from 28 to 30 July at EXPO HALL 6A. Bringing together more than 200 premium brands, this event promises unmatched deals and discounts on baby and kids’ essentials, allowing seasoned parents and soon-to-be mommies and daddies to enjoy unbeatable savings of up to 90%.

Unbeatable Deals and Exclusive Access to Premium Brands

Mothercare pulls all stops this year to create an unparalleled shopping experience. As shoppers discover top-tier products from globally renowned brands like Pigeon, Tommee Tippee, Bugaboo, Disney, and Cybex, they can also partake in the bottle trade-ins to reap exclusive deals from quality-assured baby bottle brands at the fair.

In addition, exclusive brands only available at the Mothercare Baby & Kids Fair will be showcased, providing a unique opportunity to access high-quality products not found at other baby fairs. An e-Guidebook featuring value-worthy starbuys, quality brands and staff picks will also be available for shoppers to plan ahead. The physical booklet will also be available at any of the 11 Mothercare retail stores and 6 Kiztopia locations islandwide.

With a minimum spend of S$1,000, you can also stand a chance to win enticing prizes at the spin-to-win pop-up that are worth up to S$599. Plus, keep an eye out for weekly giveaways on their official Instagram account (@mothercare_babykidsfair2023), offering interested parents a chance to bring home up to S$5,000 worth of essential baby and pregnancy products from a plethora of brands.

That’s not all – the first 2,000 signups can snap up a free early bird goodie bag laden with baby products worth up to S$200+. Shoppers can register online for their entrance goodie bag here.

Expertise Meets Entertainment

The fair goes beyond shopping — turning into a hub of learning and fun. Expectant mothers can immerse themselves in enlightening seminars from 12pm to 5pm, facilitated by medical experts and doctors from Mount Alvernia Hospital. The Mommy & Me seminar on pregnancy features hourly sessions that will shed light on various pregnancy topics and early stage planning knowledge, with attendees receiving goodie bags worth up to S$150+. Complementing this enriching experience, an expansive 200m­2 Kiztopia mega indoor playground will feature a bouncy castle that stands ready to thrill toddlers, transforming your shopping experience into a delightful family outing unlike any other.

Partnerships and Sweet Rewards

Elevating the value for every dollar spent, Mothercare has forged a partnership with Shopback. This collaboration allows shoppers to extend their savings with the use of stackable vouchers and cashback offers. Shoppers can pay with ShopBack Pay or PayLater, and stand to win 100% cashback* and up to $15 off^ at the Baby & Kids Fair. Adding to the roster of partnerships, a tie up with Tanamera Coffee & Roastery and Shopback’s app sweetens the deal – the first 300 visitors can enjoy free coffee or tea at EXPO while new Shopback users enjoy S$2 off a minimum spend of S$5 on coffee, tea and juices.

The Baby & Kids Fair 2023 is an embodiment of Mothercare’s steadfast commitment to nurturing young families. This event represents more than just a shopping experience – it’s a curated celebration of parenthood where quality, affordability, and family joy converge. Symbolising the brand’s promise to continuously innovate and provide only the best, the fair is a testament to the shared journey of parenting, one that Mothercare is proud to support and celebrate.
Hashtag: #mcbabyfair #sgevents #sggiveaway #sgbabyfair #parenting #mothercare #babyessentials #sgdeals


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

About Mothercare

Launched in 1984, Mothercare is a leading global baby retailer specialising in knowledge and expertise in all baby-related products, from strollers and maternity clothes to feeding equipment. With 11 stores islandwide, including its flagship-turned-Experience store at Harbourfront Centre, Mothercare delivers with a strong reputation in quality, safe and innovative baby products as well as excellent customer service to those on their parenting journeys. For more information, please visit:

WRISE Group Accelerates Business Momentum with Expansion of Business Footprint and Leadership Capabilities

Launch of WeWrise and VooTech and fresh senior executive leadership appointments all part of an expansion strategy to achieve assets under management (AUM) of US$5 billion by Dec 2023

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 5 July 2023 – WRISE Group, a wealth management enterprise, is broadening its capabilities to help ultra-high net worth individuals (UHNWIs) and family offices navigate the complexities of modern wealth management with fresh leadership appointments and the launch of two new businesses, namely WeWrise, a comprehensive corporate services organisation, and Voo Technologies (VooTech), a subsidiary wealthtech solutions provider of modular digital services from WRISE on a B2B software-as-a-service (SaaS) model.

This business expansion will allow the WRISE Group to broaden its scope of professional and digital service offerings supported by experienced senior leaders, leading to better tailoring of solutions to meet the wealth management demands of more UHNWIs and family offices.

Accelerating growth opportunities with new business units

WRISE Group’s two new business units, WeWrise and VooTech, will augment WRISE’s current capabilities with a holistic suite of offerings across the wealth management spectrum to serve a diversity of clients. These new services are detailed below:

  • WeWrise: Comprehensive consulting and advisory services for financial management

WeWrise serves as the foundation for UHNWIs and HWIs, providing essential services for those looking to first structure their wealth. Managed by executive members experienced in both onshore and offshore fund structures, the new business unit will help clients to establish a solid financial framework, using their expertise in fund design, investment management, risk management, and compliance under financial licenses for a vast client base that spans diverse industries. WeWrise is currently represented in Hong Kong, Shanghai, and Singapore, with financial licences in key markets such as Hong Kong, Cayman Islands, and the British Virgin Islands.

  • VooTech: B2B wealthtech solutions provider

VooTech is a wealthtech subsidiary of WRISE, complementing the Group’s comprehensive wealth management offerings with modular digital services from WRISE such as asset aggregation, analytic and reporting and price aggregation tool. VooTech is backed by an experienced team of IT and financial services professionals, to both support WRISE’s digital requirements and specialised digital services demanded by External Asset Managers (EAMs), family offices, trust companies, and fintech firms.

Simplification of wealth management through technology and people key to WRISE’s success

The differentiating factors of TREX, WRISE’s best-in-class technology platform and WRISE’s team expertise and capabilities are key to WRISE’s continued success.

“WRISE’s strategic new hires and astute alignment with market movements remain part of our impending success in hitting our year end target for an AUM of US$5 billion. I am confident that technical and enhanced professional expertise from our senior leaders will lead our exceptional team to drive continued growth of WRISE’s business and assets,” said Derrick Tan, Chairman of WRISE Group.

Appointment of Kevin Teng as the new CEO of WRISE WM Singapore

WRISE has appointed Kevin Teng as CEO of WRISE WM Singapore, effective 3 July 2023. Kevin brings over 20 years of experience in wealth management industry. He assumes CEO responsibilities from Derrick Tan, Chairman of WRISE Group, who is now focusing on the strategic initiatives, growth and leadership of the Group’s businesses.

“I am privileged to join WRISE at such an exciting time. Asia-Pacific is set to become the largest wealth hub by 2026, and more UHNWIs are looking to simplify their wealth management and transfer processes. WRISE’s expanded offerings fill a crucial gap in meeting the industry’s evolving needs. As the convergence of traditional and digital wealth management continues to create new possibilities in financial and investment services, I am delighted to be in a position to leverage such emergent capabilities for the success of our clients and partners,” said Kevin Teng, CEO, WRISE WM Singapore.

Appointment of Joel Tan and Megan Zhang as Co-Chief Executives of WRISE WM Hong Kong

WRISE WM HK has also appointed Joel Tan and Megan Zhang as Co-Chief Executives (CE), effective 3 July 2023. Collectively, both CEs bring over 24 years of experience in wealth management industry. Under the leadership of Derrick Tan, Chairman of WRISE Group and Marcus Wong, Vice Chairman of WRISE WM HK, Joel will head the strategic initiatives for Hong Kong market and Megan will focus on serving clients in the China market.

Serving needs across the region

Moving forward, WRISE will continue to establish offices in financial centres globally as opportunities arise. Its growth strategy remains affixed on building presence in major financial centres, to create a net of synergies that are key to its continuity and growth. Besides WeWrise and VooTech, WRISE has also established its first overseas office in Hong Kong earlier this year, focusing on the wealth management needs of Hong Kong’s UHNWIs, family offices, and clients across Greater China.

Hashtag: #WRISE

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

WRISE

WRISE is a wealth enterprise that provides innovative client-centred solutions to make it easy for UHNWIs to grow their wealth and live their dreams. Its proprietary and cutting-edge digital platform, TREX, gives clients complete control and transparency over their total wealth. From intelligent portfolio management, wealth planning and expert, unbiased advice, to trust and corporate services, all the integral tools are available in one place for easy access, anytime and anywhere. Clients are assured of a frictionless route to unbiased, trusted investment advice and market insights across a broad spectrum of asset classes.

WRISE Group of Companies include WRISE Wealth Management (Singapore), , WeWrise Services, and Voo Technologies and affliliated companies WRISE Wealth Management (Hong Kong), WRISE Wealth Management (Middle East).