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IYDC Chengdu 2025 to Feature Diverse International Competitors in Global Dance Event


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2025 – The International Youth Dance Competition (IYDC) is set to return in 2025, bringing together young dancers from all over the world to celebrate artistic excellence and technical mastery. In 2025, IYDC will be held in China, Singapore and Thailand. This upcoming IYDC, held in Chengdu, China, on 1 – 3 May will be an opportunity for young performers, educators, and industry professionals to gather and celebrate the art of dance on an international stage.

Prize presentation of IYDC in Singapore in 2024
Prize presentation of IYDC in Singapore in 2024

A Holistic Approach to Dance

The IYDC employs a distinctive judging approach, using a scoring system that awards Gold, Silver, or Bronze bandings based on each participant’s individual performance, rather than ranking dancers against one another. This system aims to recognise personal achievement, encouraging dancers to concentrate on their own development and progress while minimising the focus on direct competition.

Pathway to IYDC Ambassadorship

Dancers scoring Silver and above will be able to qualify for the Elite showcase, where they perform at an advanced level. IYDC Ambassadors are selected from this group every year based on criteria such as performance, dedication, and the ability to inspire others. From there, they gain access to various opportunities, such as special performance invitations at IYDC events, features in international dance campaigns, and the chance to mentor and represent IYDC in future editions.

Opportunities Beyond the Competition

In addition to the competition, the IYDC provides several avenues for professional development. Participants can benefit from direct mentorship from world-class professionals, allowing them to explore new techniques, receive feedback, and gain insights into advanced dance practices.

The event also serves as a platform for networking, allowing dancers to connect with peers from various countries, exchange ideas, and establish professional relationships. The IYDC regularly attracts esteemed adjudicators and partners with renowned dance institutions such as McDonald College (Australia) and Bird College (United Kingdom), providing participants with access to potential scholarships and career opportunities.

AQ Dance Academy to Participate in IYDC Chengdu 2025

Singapore has consistently been well-represented at the International Youth Dance Competition (IYDC), with several local dance academies taking part in previous editions and achieving high standards of performance.

In 2025, AQ Dance Academy will join this distinguished group by leading a team of students to IYDC Chengdu. This will not be the academy’s first time at the competition; in 2024, they received several Gold Awards in the Solos and Group Categories in Singapore. The Best Teamwork Award and Best Choreography Award were awarded to AQ Dance Academy in the Level 3 Small Group – Lyrical/Contemporary category and Level 2 Small Group – Ballet category respectively. AQ Dance Academy’s participation in IYDC aligns with the academy’s focus on supporting students’ growth in a positive and encouraging environment.

Through this event, the academy aims to provide students with a cultural exchange experience and broaden their perspectives. Observing and learning from Chinese dancers, known for their classical technique and artistry, will deepen students’ understanding of global dance standards. For AQ Dance Academy, this event will be a chance for their young dancers to showcase their abilities on an international stage while continuing their artistic development.

IYDC Chengdu will take place from 1st to 3rd May 2025 at the China Sichuan Cultural & Arts Centre.
Hashtag: #IYDC

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

About AQ Dance Academy

AQ Dance Academy provides ballet and contemporary dance training, following the Royal Academy of Dance (RAD) syllabus. The academy’s programmes are designed to help students develop strength, coordination, and musicality, while also promoting life skills such as discipline, teamwork, leadership, and resilience.

KCM Trade AI Mentor: Smart Trading Tutor—Powered by Knowledge, Precision, Efficiency, and Unmatched Security


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2025 – KCM Trade has officially launched AI Mentor, an advanced AI-powered trading tutor designed to help clients navigate the complexities of trading and bridge information gaps. AI Mentor emphasizes data security, efficiency, and accuracy, showcasing KCM Trade‘s commitment to innovation and education.

In-House AI Team: Maximum Security, Zero Third-Party Dependence
While many financial companies rely on third-party AI systems, only a handful of truly capable firms, such as global banking giants, possess the resources and expertise to develop in-house AI solutions. KCM Trade, however, has taken a more proactive approach by forming a dedicated R&D team in the APAC region. This team comprises 15 AI and financial experts from diverse international backgrounds, enabling AI Mentor to innovate independently and securely.

“By developing our proprietary AI APP, we deliver exceptional data security. Unlike third-party AI solutions that may share client data externally, our proprietary AI system removes third-party involvement, reducing risks in data transactions and ensuring maximum security for our clients. This approach enhances scalability and innovation, making AI Mentor a truly transformative tool for traders.” explained the AI Mentor R&D Team at KCM Trade.

The Mission Behind AI Mentor
AI Mentor‘s mission is to empower traders, not replace them. By combining the precision of artificial intelligence with emotional intelligence, the platform delivers real-time market analysis while supporting users on their individual paths to growth. It is important to note that AI Mentor does not provide trading strategy advice to clients. Instead, it enables users to make informed decisions based on their own knowledge and analysis.

AI Mentor‘s 5-Step Process to Elevate Users’ Trading Journey

Listen & Learn
The platform starts by analysing each user’s trading behavior, goals, and risk tolerance. For instance, it can identify patterns, such as:
“a trader executing 50 trades in a week with an average holding time of 5 minutes, AI Mentor will highlight the client’s ability to make quick decisions and suggest areas for improvement…”

First Step to Confident Trading
New to trading and unsure where to start? AI Mentor anticipates user’s needs as a gentle guide and receive bite-sized starting points like:
“Understanding CFD Basics”
“5 Key Metrics Every Trader Should Track”
“How to Spot Market Trends in 10 Minutes”
Click any topic, and AI Mentor transforms complexity into clarity with step-by-step walkthroughs. Each topic unlocks step-by-step paths—no prior knowledge needed.

Simplify Complexity
AI Mentor cuts through market noise to deliver clear, actionable insights, enabling traders to make informed decisions quickly. It distills key economic indicators into concise and meaningful guidance, for example:
“if user want to know today’s key market events, instead of analyzing lengthy reports, AI Mentor highlights essential figures and their market impact concisely. It also integrates multiple data sources, such as gold prices are once again approaching record highs, Australia’s employment data (January) and U.S. jobless claims data (as of February 15), ensuring traders stay focused on critical market-moving developments.”

Immersive Learning
Every trading activity becomes a valuable learning opportunity. AI Mentor delivers micro-learning insights to enhance user understanding, gradually guiding users toward deeper exploration, for example:
“when users inquire about today’s key market events, AI Mentor not only provides relevant market news but also offers additional insights to enrich their comprehension, such as ‘trade performance analysis’ and ‘guidance on assessing the impact of economic data on the market.’ AI Mentor believes that such supplementary information is essential for users to grow and learn effectively throughout their trading journey.”

Grow Together
The system evolves alongside its users, continuously adapting and improving to serve as a personal trading tutor.

Trade Into Tomorrow: Advanced Tools for the Future
Currently, AI Mentor is in its beta phase and available to clients by invitation only. Exciting enhancements are on the horizon as we roll out planned updates designed to elevate users’ trading experience with advanced tools, real-time insights, and personalized reporting.

News Integration
By connecting with additional news aggregators globally through paid and non-paid channels, we will deliver real-time updates on market-moving events with a single click.

Multi Trading Reports
Moving beyond standard reports, traders will be able to instantly generate self-customized reports 24/7.

Hashtag: #KCMTrade #KCMTradeAIMentor #AIMentor

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

About KCM Trade

Founded in 2016, KCM Trade is dedicated to offering reliable, customized, and efficient trading services, connecting clients to top global financial markets. As a liquidity provider, we support institutional clients through a global network and offer diverse trading options to retail clients.

Our operations span Australia, Hong Kong SAR, Taipei, Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, Mauritius, and other regions. With our experienced and professional team, we can provide all-rounded and reliable support for client transactions.

KCM Trade is part of the KCM Group, affiliated companies include KCM Group Holdings Limited, Kohle Capital Markets Pty Ltd, and Kohle Capital Markets Ltd.

KCM Trade Website:

HEAVENS: The Boy and His Robot Soars into New Cinematic Heights with Historic Japan Re-Release and Fantasporto 2025 Debut


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2025 – Prepare for an interstellar cinematic journey as “HEAVENS: The Boy and His Robot,” a groundbreaking sci-fi adventure from Singapore, 12 years in the making, achieves two unprecedented milestones. On February 28, 2025, this visionary film will be the first Singaporean movie to enjoy a wide special re-release in Japan, screening simultaneously in 50 Aeon Cinemas across the nation. Furthermore, it will make its mark at the prestigious 45th Fantasporto Film Festival in Portugal, becoming the first Singaporean film ever nominated for Best International Feature Film and competing for up to eight additional awards.

HEAVENS: The Boy and His Robot (Mechaverse: Shōnen to Robotto) Official Poster
HEAVENS: The Boy and His Robot (Mechaverse: Shōnen to Robotto) Official Poster

A Galactic Adventure for All Ages

Official Logline:
In a galaxy fractured by warfare, a young pilot and his loyal robot navigate through a universe in turmoil, to bring peace to the stars. “HEAVENS: The Boy and His Robot” offers a blend of thrilling action, unique humor, and deep emotional resonance, creating a cinematic experience that families across Asia Pacific will treasure.

With its lavish visual effects and compelling narrative, the film has been celebrated by both audiences and critics. Described as “a dream masterpiece” by Aki Suda (菅田愛貴) of Chō Tokimeki Sendenbu, it has been lauded for its “enchanting” visuals and “spectacular” storytelling.

A Historic Re-Release in Japan
The wide re-release in Japan signifies not only a cultural bridge but is also a testament to the film’s universal appeal. This event is a landmark for Singaporean cinema, proving its potential to engage and captivate international audiences beyond arthouse and dramatic films. Critics have hailed it as a pivotal moment, calling the film a “visually impressive blockbuster” and epic heartwarming narrative that resonates with viewers of all ages.

A Grand Debut at Fantasporto 2025
At Fantasporto, one of the world’s premier genre film festivals, “HEAVENS: The Boy and His Robot” stands out among 600 feature film submissions, and was selected as one of only 23 for the feature film competition. “HEAVENS: The Boy and His Robot” will represent the debut of Singapore cinema in Fantasporto’s 45-year history. This nomination not only highlights the film’s artistic merit but also marks a significant achievement for Singaporean filmmakers on the global stage.

A Testament to Creativity and Perseverance
Directed by the visionary Rich Ho, the film is the result of 12 years of dedication and perseverance, reflecting a journey that began from a small modest public housing flat in Singapore. The production traversed global borders and cultures, resulting in a cinematic piece worked on by hundreds of cast and crew from all over the world. “This project was born out of a deep desire to encourage others to never give up. I also wanted to show how, with love and respect (humor and food too), the world can learn to work and walk together towards a common vision,” says Ho, emphasizing the film’s message of hope, collaboration, and the transformative power of dreams.

Critical Acclaim and Industry Praise
With its lavish visual effects and compelling narrative, the film has already made history at multiple international festivals:

  • Fantasporto 2025 (Portugal) – 1st Singaporean film ever nominated for Best International Feature Film in the festival’s 45-year history, eligible for at least eight other awards.
  • Fantasia International Film Festival 2024 (Canada) – 1st Singaporean film ever nominated for Best First International Feature Film in the festival’s 28-year history.
  • Les Utopiales de Nantes 2024 (France) – 1st Singaporean film ever nominated for Best International Feature Film in the festival’s 24-year history.
  • Trieste Science+Fiction Film Festival 2024 (Italy) – Significant nomination for Best International Feature Film (Asteroid Award), though not the first Singaporean film nominated in the festival’s history, it underscores the film’s international recognition.

The film has garnered praise from various quarters:

  • Grant Watson, Fiction Machine: “Boasting lavish visual effects, this science fiction giant robot epic looks just the sort of glossy, visually impressive blockbuster to compete internationally.”
  • Sean Parker, 25YL: “Everything about HEAVENS: The Boy and His Robot is enchanting. It’s a film that proves family adventure can be both heartwarming and spectacular.”
  • Chris Jones, Overly Honest Reviews: “HEAVENS signifies a pivotal moment for the Singaporean cinematic landscape. It reminds us that the boundaries of cinema are as limitless as the universe itself.”
  • Rupert Bottenberg, Fantasia International Film Festival: “Rich Ho’s ambitious and spectacular introduction of his HEAVENS universe has at last launched into the stratosphere. HEAVENS demands to be seen on the biggest screen possible.”
  • Giles Edwards, 366 Weird Movies: “A heartwarming and comedic story about Kai and his Mecha.”
  • Théo Darmana, atuvu.ca: “A science fiction gem that will amaze the whole family.”
  • Zed Kosnar, desdeabajo.net: “HEAVENS is a great example of not giving up when you want to bring your dreams and ideas to life. And we need more of those.”

Join the Journey
Don’t miss your chance to experience this historic moment in theaters, starting with Japan on 28th February 2025. “HEAVENS: The Boy and His Robot” invites families to share in a story where the bond between a boy and his robot can change the fate of worlds.

View HEAVENS: The Boy and His Robot (Mechaverse: Shōnen to Robotto) Official Trailer for Japan here
Hashtag: #heavens_ent_sg #mechaverse_jp #NeverAlone #NeverGiveUp




Official Movie in Japan Website:
Official Japan Twitter/X:
Official Japan Instagram:
Official Facebook:

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

HEAVENS ENTERTAINMENT

Established in 2016, Heavens Entertainment is a Singapore-based company managing the HEAVENS® entertainment franchise. Heavens Entertainment has a global vision to bring to international audiences entertainment that is good, clean and fun.

Heavens Entertainment believes in employing innovative technology and visual effects production methods, introducing massive time and cost savings, in-turn transforming the film and entertainment industry. The HEAVENS® Universe continues to be shaped and formed through such collaborations with like-minded partners and creatives from all over the world.

At the heart of the HEAVENS® franchise is a wish to captivate audiences with stories that inspire, and bring hope and joy. With plans in the pipeline to launch other media platforms, audiences can look forward to experiencing an immersive journey into the HEAVENS® Universe.

For more information about HEAVENS: The Boy and His Robot and Heavens Entertainment, please visit:

Glazing the Way: Bakery China 2025 Set to Strengthen Global Industry Ties

SHANGHAI, Feb. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 27th Bakery China, scheduled for May 19-22 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (NECC) in Shanghai, is gearing up to set new benchmarks in the industry again. With an expanded exhibition space of 330,000 square meters and over 2,200 exhibitors with thousands of brands from nearly 30 countries and regions participating, the event anticipates attracting more than 400,000 visits from over 130 countries.

Launched in 1997, Bakery China has been the largest bakery exhibition globally and a leading platform for brands entering the Chinese and Asian markets. This year’s event will feature a wide range of products, including thousands making their debut. Over 20% of the exhibitors are international brands from Western Europe, North America, and Asia, among other regions.

The exhibition is not just about scale; it integrates various aspects of the baking industry, including competitions, forums and other match-making events themed around innovation and markets with more than a thousand industry leaders participating.

Creating An All-in-One Dynamic Event

  • Diverse: The event features five themed competitions, dozens of forums, multiple industry cluster exhibition areas, and more. With the Top Patissier of Asia 2025, other competitions and forums, it attracts over 1,000 business leaders, industry experts, and technical masters. This event seamlessly integrates exhibitions, conferences, competitions, showcases, and markets into one comprehensive annual celebration. Notably, the Bakery China Innovation Awards recognizes the most innovative and market-ready products from China’s baking supply chain and has attracted almost 200 companies to participate.
  • Immersive: Attendees can engage in business interactions with over 2,200 enterprises across the industry chain, participating in various competitions and observing technical demonstrations up close. Themed zones including “Innovative New Forces”, “Pre-made Baking Experience” and “Healthy Baking Experience” will showcase products in a way that highlights the deep integration of product application and consumer trends.
  • Insightful: More than 30 forums will discuss topics such as “Pre-made Baking,” “Healthy Baking,” and “Private Brand,” focusing on differentiated innovation and market strategies to equip professionals with strategic knowledge.
  • Supportive: The exhibition will also introduce various services to enhance international trade connections, including an International Trade Matching Zone, which will offer thousands of targeted matchmaking services for global industry participants.

Bridging Gaps via Advanced Digital Solutions

Bakery China continues to expand and refine its cutting-edge digital platform, iBakeryChina. It drives innovation in the baking industry with 4,000+ suppliers, nearly one million buyers, and numerous product listings, offering tailored digital solutions to help businesses thrive in a competitive market.

 Ma Og Chun, President of Korea Bakery Association commented, ” The bread industry in China is experiencing rapid growth, with significant expansion compared to just a few years ago.” Meanwhile, a visitor from Tajikistan praised Bakery China for the exhibited cutting-edge equipment.

Bakery China emphasizes innovation as its driving force, creating value across the industry chain to drive upgrades and growth in the baking industry and consumer market.

For pre-registration please visit: https://bakerychina.7-event.cn/t/en/news

CONTACT: Zhang Jingjing.zhang@bakerychina.com

 

 

 

10T Tech Unveils Another eSIM Industry First: Multi-SM-DP+ As Standard

BARCELONA, Spain, Feb. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — 10T Tech, a global leader in eSIM Orchestration, has taken a huge leap forward in how eSIM solutions are delivered to mobile carriers. Today, in the lead up to Mobile World Congress, they launched the world’s first eSIM platform to be multi-SM-DP+ as standard. This new solution can be delivered in under 2 weeks.

Revolutionary Multi-SM-DP+ Capability

Building upon the success of its My10T Smart Orchestration platform launched in February 2024, 10T Tech leads the way in solving the challenge of how carriers can integrate multiple eSIM solutions with their existing infrastructure through a single API.

Advantages of a Multi-SM-DP+ Solution

1.    Enhanced Interoperability:
My10T Smart Orchestration can integrate with multiple GSMA-compliant eSIM platforms simultaneously.

2.    Enhanced Resilience and Redundancy:
A multi-SM-DP+ structure can be used with a primary SM-DP+ for normal traffic and a secondary as a backup to which traffic can be quickly diverted in the event of an outage on the primary.

Real-time error tracking on the primary SM-DP+ ensures any outage is picked up immediately, enabling prompt diversion of traffic and minimising impact on subscriber experience.

3.    Expanded Functionality:
Some SM-DP+ platforms have particular strengths in add-on services such as Multi-IMSI capabilities or Device Entitlement. My10T Smart Orchestration allows the carrier to consolidate these different strengths into one solution.

4.    Unified Management of Advanced Customer Journeys for both Consumer and IoT:
In the increasingly competitive eSIM market, advanced customer journeys have become crucial for differentiation. My10T Smart Orchestration allows mobile carriers to access different advanced customer journeys from different SM-DP+ platforms, all through a single, intuitive user interface. This capability extends to both consumer and IoT use cases, enabling carriers to support IoT deployments alongside traditional consumer eSIM services.

Empowering Tomorrows eSIM Ecosystem

Fredric Liljestroem, Founder and CEO of 10T Tech, commented on this latest innovation: “With the introduction of our multi-SMDP+ solution, we’re not just enhancing My10T Smart Orchestration – this industry-first development revolutionises how successful mobile carriers approach eSIM management on a global scale.”

For more information about the enhanced My10T Smart Orchestration platform with multi-SMDP+ capabilities, please contact:

Geoffrey Head
Chief Sales and Marketing Officer
Geoffrey.Head@10ttech.com 

About 10T Tech:

10T Tech is a global leader in consumer eSIM and eSIM orchestration platforms, dedicated to empowering mobile carriers and enterprises to unlock the full potential of eSIM technology.

From Japan to India – Agoda Highlights 5 Enchanting Cherry Blossom Destinations in Asia

SINGAPORE, Feb. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As Japan looks forward to the start of cherry blossom season in March, digital travel platform Agoda shares five destinations in Japan and beyond where travelers can experience the visual spectacle of the pink flower.

The cherry blossom season, also known as Sakura, offers travelers the chance to witness these stunning but fleeting blooms. Many travelers will have their eyes set on Japan, the destination most famous for cherry blossom viewing. But in addition to Japan, Agoda highlights four alternative destinations across Asia where the pink blossoms can be seen.

Hiroto Ooka, Associate Vice President North Asia at Agoda said: “Cherry blossom season is a time of joy and renewal, offering travelers a chance to connect with both nature and culture. While Japan is famous for its cherry blossoms, other parts of Asia, like South Korea, India and Thailand, also offer breathtaking displays of these pink blooms. At Agoda, we’re excited to help travelers discover these beautiful destinations by offering great value deals on accommodations and flights.”

The below list shows where to enjoy the spectacular cherry blossoms in Asia:

Taipei, Taiwan (March)

Taiwan’s cherry blossoms might not be as well-known as Japan’s, but they offer an equally enchanting experience. Yangmingshan National Park, north of Taipei, is a standout location where visitors can enjoy the beautiful blooms against the backdrop of Taiwan’s stunning landscapes. The park also offers hot springs and hiking trails, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts to explore beyond the blossoms in Taiwan’s spring season.

Kochi, Japan (March and April)

Each season, Kochi is one of the first places in Japan to experience the cherry blossoms, with the peak expected at the end of March. Unlike the bustling parks of Tokyo and Kyoto, Kochi’s Makino Botanical Garden provides a more intimate setting for Hanami, the tradition of enjoying cherry blossoms with picnics and festivities, which allows visitors to take in the beauty of Sakura in a peaceful setting.

Jeju Island, South Korea (March and April)

On Jeju Island, the Sakura season is expected to last from late March to early April. Jeju National University is famous for its King Cherry Trees and hosts the Jeju Cherry Blossom Festival, which features performances and street food. Many visitors dress in traditional hanbok costumes for memorable photos.

Shillong, India (November)

In India, one of the best places to see the floral Sakura spectacle is in Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya. Every November, the Shillong Cherry Blossom Festival attracts both locals and tourists to northeast India, celebrating the blooms with music, food, and cultural events.

Chiang Mai, Thailand (December – February)

For those who prefer to plan well in advance, the Sakura season in Chiang Mai, Thailand is worth considering. It usually takes place between late December and mid-February. Khun Chang Kian Highland Agriculture Research Center in Chiang Mai is known for its wild Himalayan cherry blossoms, offering a unique viewing experience. Doi Suthep-Pui National Park provides beautiful cherry blossom views amidst the park’s lush greenery.

For those planning a trip to Japan, Agoda has a special guide on how to enjoy cherry blossoms on a budget. With over 5 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities available, Agoda offers travelers the flexibility to craft a personalized cherry blossom adventure. Discover the best deals on all of Agoda’s five million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities on Agoda’s mobile app or by visiting Agoda.com/deals.

Allianz Asia Pacific Celebrates the Inaugural Graduation of 200 Agents and Agency Leaders from the Pinnacle Excellence Program in Partnership with INSEAD

Setting a New Standard in Future-Proofing the Next Generation of Financial Advisors

SINGAPORE, Feb. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Allianz Asia Pacific proudly announces the inaugural graduation of 200 agents and agency leaders from its Pinnacle Excellence Program (PEP), a first-of-its-kind initiative co-designed with INSEAD, one of the world’s leading business schools. This milestone underlines Allianz’s dedication to equipping its agency force with advanced skills and insights to navigate the evolving financial landscape, while also supporting the broader Pinnacle 2030 strategy focused on sustainable growth and enhanced client engagement.

Transformative Outcomes and Strong Agency Performance

Graduates of this first cohort demonstrated over 40% growth in productivity, and nearly 40% qualified for the Million Dollar Round Table (MDRT)—a global standard of excellence in financial advisory. These accomplishments contributed to Allianz’s robust 9M 2024 agency performance, marked by a 19% increase in New Business Value (NBV) and 8% growth in Annualised Premiums (ANP). Notably, ANP per active agent climbed by 11%, reflecting a strategic emphasis on developing a high-performing, client-focused agency network.

A Program Created “For Agents, By Agents”

PEP was developed through extensive collaboration with leading industry practitioners, including Allianz’s top-performing agents and leaders across Asia Pacific. Their on-the-ground insights shaped a specialized learning journey that addresses the key drivers of long-term success in today’s competitive market. Unlike conventional insurance training programs, PEP integrates both academic rigor and practical application through:

–  Blended Learning Delivery: Combining theoretical case studies, action-based projects, and role-playing exercises.
–  Focused Skill Modules: Spanning Customer Psychology, Leadership, Communication, and Entrepreneurial Strategies.
–  Real-World Application: Equipping participants to translate classroom learnings into tangible results, from client engagement to team leadership.

“Our vision at Allianz is to build a world-class agency force that delivers exceptional service and trusted financial solutions,” said Anusha Thavarajah, Regional Chief Executive Officer, Allianz Asia Pacific. “The Pinnacle Excellence Program is a key pillar of our Pinnacle 2030 strategy, designed to elevate our agency force, enhance client engagement, and drive long-term growth. Through this program, we are not just transferring knowledge—we’re shaping the future of financial advisory by equipping our agents with the skills, tools, and mindset needed for sustainable success.”

Elevating Industry Standards

In an environment where customer expectations continue to evolve, PEP graduates emerge as highly skilled advisors and leaders committed to safeguarding their clients’ financial well-being. By emphasizing lifelong learning, advanced financial planning expertise, and leadership development, Allianz aims to raise the bar for quality advisory services in the region.

“At INSEAD, we believe in developing responsible leaders who can navigate complexity and drive meaningful impact,” said Sameer Hasija, Dean of Executive Education and Dean of the Asia Campus at INSEAD. “Our collaboration with Allianz in the Pinnacle Excellence Program exemplifies this mission—combining world-class business education with real-world application to empower agents with the knowledge, skills, and strategic mindset needed to lead and create positive change in today’s financial landscape.” 

Looking Ahead: Growth and Future Enhancements

The 200 graduates represent a diverse mix of new agents, aspiring leaders, and experienced professionals—each benefiting from PEP’s structured, hands-on approach. Building on this success, Allianz will expand the program in the coming years, allowing more agents to:

–  Access innovative learning methods tailored to an ever-changing market.
–  Develop leadership capabilities that drive team performance and client trust.
–  Contribute to sustainable growth in Asia’s dynamic financial services industry.

Allianz remains committed to creating industry-leading development pathways that prepare advisors for tomorrow’s challenges, ensuring clients receive best-in-class financial guidance well into the future.

About Allianz in Asia

Asia is one of the core growth regions for Allianz, characterized by a rich diversity of cultures, languages and customs. Allianz has been present in the region since 1910, when it first provided fire and marine insurance in the coastal cities of China. Today, Allianz is active in 14 markets* in the region, offering its core businesses of property and casualty insurance, life, protection, and health solutions, as well as asset management. With its more than 32,000 staff, Allianz serves the needs of over 18 million customers in the region across multiple distribution channels and digital platforms.

*Allianz Asia Pacific Operating Entities only (10): China, India, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Taiwan region, Thailand

Including other Allianz Global Lines (14): Above including Brunei, Hong Kong SAR, Pakistan, South Korea.

About Allianz

The Allianz Group is one of the world’s leading insurers and asset managers with around 125 million* private and corporate customers in nearly 70 countries. Allianz customers benefit from a broad range of personal and corporate insurance services, ranging from property, life and health insurance to assistance services to credit insurance and global business insurance. Allianz is one of the world’s largest investors, managing around 746 billion euros** on behalf of its insurance customers. Furthermore, our asset managers PIMCO and Allianz Global Investors manage about 1.8 trillion euros** of third-party assets. Thanks to our systematic integration of ecological and social criteria in our business processes and investment decisions, we are among the leaders in the insurance industry in the Dow Jones Sustainability Index. In 2023, over 157,000 employees achieved total business volume of 161.7 billion euros and an operating profit of 14.7 billion euros for the group.

* Including non-consolidated entities with Allianz customers.

**As of March 31, 2024.

 

Second Half Recovery Spurs Robust Full Year 2024 Performance for Golden Agri-Resources

  • EBITDA grew by 23% in the second half of the year, bringing full-year EBITDA to US$1.1 billion at a margin of 10%.
  • Proposed 31% increase in final dividend to 0.804 Singapore cents per share, subject to shareholder approval.

SINGAPORE, Feb. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Golden Agri-Resources Ltd (“GAR” or the “Company”) has announced a robust financial performance for 2024, with improved plantation output and higher crude palm oil (CPO) prices driving growth in the second half of the year. 

Second half performance supported robust full-year financial results for Golden Agri-Resources in 2024.
Second half performance supported robust full-year financial results for Golden Agri-Resources in 2024.

On the results, Mr. Franky O. Widjaja, GAR Chairman and Chief Executive Officer commented: “The Board is proud to report strong growth across key financial metrics. This year, we saw an expanded contribution from our upstream business, adding to the robust performance of our downstream operations. This is a testament to the strategic advantages of our vertically integrated operations, which continue to provide stability and flexibility to navigate industry dynamics. Our ongoing investments in innovation, advanced technology, operational excellence, and sustainability practices will strengthen our competitive edge, ensuring we drive future growth.”

GAR achieved a record sales volume of 11.9 million tonnes in 2024, supporting a 12% growth in revenue to US$10.9 billion. Stronger sales, together with higher CPO prices, combined to offset the impact of lower plantation output. EBITDA for the year increased by 12% to US$1.1 billion, preserving a healthy margin of 10%. Underlying profit grew by 27% year-on-year to US$416 million, while net profit increased to US$365 million.

On the outlook for the industry, Mr. Widjaja added: “Strong palm oil prices have persisted at the start of 2025, maintaining a premium over soybean oil. This trend will hold during the current low production season, while festive periods across Asia will drive consumption demand. Palm oil output is expected to recover this year, especially in Indonesia, as we emerge from the long-tail impact of El Niño weather conditions. This supply growth will be readily absorbed by sustained growth in demand supported by Indonesia’s higher B40 biodiesel blending mandate. We remain vigilant to the impact of geopolitical and global economic conditions on palm oil prices.”

GAR’s Board has proposed a final dividend of 0.804 Singapore cents per share, totalling approximately US$75 million, in line with its balanced approach to rewarding shareholders while maintaining a strong balance sheet to insure against anticipated global challenges. This represents 18% of underlying profit and a 31% increase from the previous year. The proposed final dividend will be distributed on 20 May 2025, subject to approval by shareholders at GAR’s 2025 Annual Meeting.

SEGMENTAL PERFORMANCE

Plantations and Palm Oil Mills (Upstream)

GAR’s planted area, including plasma, was 536,000 hectares at the end of 2024, of which 90% was mature. The Company accelerated its replanting efforts in 2024, rejuvenating 21,500 hectares of old estates with higher-yielding, next-generation planting materials. This initiative is part of GAR’s yield intensification programme that aims to sustain long-term production growth from existing plantations.

Fruit yield in the second half of the year grew by 29% compared to the previous period, reaching 10.4 tonnes per hectare. Despite this turnaround, GAR’s full year yield of 18.7 tonnes per hectare remained below 2023 levels due to land preparation for replanting and the deferred impact of El Niño weather conditions. Total plantation output dropped by 7% year-on-year to 2.7 million tonnes in 2024.

Upstream EBITDA grew by 19% to US$567 million, resulting in a strong margin of 26.1%. This was primarily supported by higher CPO prices, which grew from US$901 per tonne (average price FOB Belawan) in 2023 to US$1,005 per tonne in 2024.

Palm, Laurics and Others (Downstream)

GAR’s downstream segment consists of processing and merchandising palm and oilseed-based products including bulk and branded products, oleochemicals, sugar and other vegetable oils.  

The Company’s downstream business remained resilient in 2024 despite an unfavourable market environment. Sales volume expanded by 6% to 11.5 million tonnes, generating revenue of US$10.8 billion. EBITDA for this segment increased by 5% to US$534 million with a lower margin of 4.9% as a result of reduced refining margins. GAR continues to strengthen its competitive edge by pursuing higher value-added products to drive long-term growth.

ONGOING SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVES

GAR is committed to achieving Net Zero Emissions by 2050 and has established near-term targets to reduce Scope 1 and 3 FLAG (Forest, Land, and Agriculture) emissions by 30% and Scope 1 and 2 non-FLAG emissions by 42% by 2030. This decarbonisation strategy will address three core areas: land use change and carbon removals; renewables and energy efficiency; and supplier engagement.

As part of ongoing supply chain transformation efforts, GAR continues to work alongside its customers to prepare for compliance with the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). The Company has launched the SmartTrace system, integrating its traceability data with the EU TRACES platform to support operators’ due diligence statements.