Laos has confirmed another 93 cases of Covid-19 today across the nation as the second wave continues.
Champasack Considers Converting Detention Facility to Field Hospital
Authorities in Champasack may convert a prison into a field hospital to accommodate people infected with Covid-19 as cases in the province rise.
Advanced Energy Introduces Ultra-Small, High Power Density DC-DC Converter for Telecommunications and Data Communications Applications
New AVD200-48S12 delivers superior power density in a small form factor, shrinking power conversion footprint to significantly increase available PCB space for critical functions
DENVER, COLORADO – Media OutReach – 28 April 2021 – Advanced Energy (Nasdaq: AEIS) – a global leader in highly engineered, precision power conversion, measurement, and control solutions – today expanded its market-leading family of 48 V input DC-DC power converters with a new ultra-small design. Featuring almost twice the power delivery in an industry standard footprint, the AVD200-48S12 is ideally suited for 5G digital communications modules, power-over-ethernet, and optical network applications in telecommunications and data communications.

Delivering superior power density in a small form factor, the AVD200-48S12 increases operational efficiency by cutting power-conversion losses while reducing overall system costs. By shrinking the footprint required for power conversion, available printed circuit board (PCB) space is significantly increased for other critical application functions needed in telecom and datacom equipment.
“Printed circuit board real estate has always been in high demand and short supply, even more so today with power-hungry 5G network applications,” said Joe Voyles, vice president and general manager, industrial and power conversion products at Advanced Energy. “Our new AVD200-48S12 power converter helps customers solve their most complex power conversion challenges and packs premium power with up to 200 W output in a 1/16th brick.”
The newly launched Artesyn AVD200-48S12 is a telecom-grade isolated sixteenth (1/16th) brick DC-DC converter with a power rating of 200 W with power-over-ethernet isolation. With an input voltage range of 36 to 75 VDC (Voltage Direct Current), this standard footprint converter packs nearly double the power in the same form factor as Artesyn’s AVD120 120 W, 1/16th brick converter, and delivers equivalent power to Artesyn’s AVO200 200 W, 1/8th brick, but in half the size.
The AVD200-48S12 features a high efficiency rating of over 94.2 percent and provides 48 V input to regulated, 12 V output power conversion, ideal for use as the input to down-stream, non-isolated conversion stages. With built-in open-frame and baseplate construction, with the option of through-hole or surface mount options, the unit provides customers with the option of either forced-air fan cooling or contact-cooling of an application or heatsink.
For detailed product information and technical specifications, visit the AVD200-48S12 product web page and the product data sheet.
About Advanced Energy
Advanced Energy (Nasdaq: AEIS) is a global leader in the design and manufacturing of highly engineered, precision power conversion, measurement and control solutions for mission-critical applications and processes. AE’s power solutions enable customer innovation in complex applications for a wide range of industries including semiconductor equipment, industrial, manufacturing, telecommunications, data center computing and healthcare. With engineering know-how and responsive service and support around the globe, the company builds collaborative partnerships to meet technology advances, propel growth for its customers and innovate the future of power. Advanced Energy has devoted more than three decades to perfecting power for its global customers and is headquartered in Denver, Colorado, USA. For more information, visit www.advancedenergy.com.
Advanced Energy | Precision. Power. Performance.
#AdvancedEnergy
Clash of Clans Updates Enthuse Malaysian Mobile Gamers
Multiple 2021 Enhancements Reinvigorate Mobile Gaming Legend
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach – 28 April 2021 – Clash of Clans (CoC), the legendary mobile game, has been enjoying a new lease of life and popularity among Malaysian gamers following a raft of enhancements and upgrades since the start of the year.
The veteran mobile game, which has been downloaded over 500 million times (one of only seven mobile games to achieve that milestone), remained (in 2020) one of the top 50 grossing apps in both the Play Store and App Store, an amazing achievement for a game that was released in 2012.
It is fair to say that many Malaysian ‘Clashers’ have been delighted with the recent upgrades to the game which have renewed their enthusiasm for Clash of Clans. Several Malaysian gaming influencers and creators shared their excitement and experience of the latest updates.
MasterRamen, a well known Malaysian gaming creator said “I am loving the new updates and promotions. I have been playing Clash of Clans for 8 years now and these latest changes have revived my interest in the game. The game has many new challenges to overcome and lots of fun new details to enjoy that are really attractive both to long term players, as well as people trying the game for the first time.”
The recent enhancements and promotions that have been luring Malaysian mobile gamers back into the game include:
- The Hammer Jam Event – which reduced the cost for all building upgrades by 50%, allowing Clashers to rapidly enhance their town’s infrastructure and defenses.
- The Release of Town Hall 14 – a major upgrade to the game which allowed all players – even those already at the max level – to further upgrade their bases and heroes. It also added a massive amount of new content to the game, making it the largest update in CoC history.
- The Introduction of Hero Pets – A fun new game mechanic which enables players to equip their Heroes with ‘Hero Pets’ which convey a variety of special powers to Heroes when they go into action. With each pet providing different bonuses, the new Hero Pets add another layer of strategic complexity and decision making to the game.
“This is the perfect time for Malaysian mobile gamers to try Clash of Clans for the first time or even for ex-Clashers to give it another go and get their bases back to peak perfection. While the game may not be as talked about as it once was, it remains hugely popular in Malaysia and joining a clan is a great way to make new friends – especially in the current pandemic environment.” said Sharina Richie, another Malaysian gaming creator.
You can watch MasterRamen
here or Richie
here, introducing the all new pet house, a brand new unit in Town Hall 14.
While other mobile games’ player bases have risen and fallen in-line with trends, Clash of Clans has enjoyed enduring sustained popularity. Part of the reason for this is the original philosophy behind the game. Back in 2012, after the game first launched, one of the original Finnish developers, Lasse Louhento, said, “Updates are a very important part of our strategy. We want to make games that players can enjoy for a long time, and that keep rewarding players for the time they’ve invested.” This philosophy is as true now as it was then, and as 2021 has already shown, the game continues to appeal to millions of gamers in Malaysia and around the world.
About Clash of Clans
Clash of Clans is a freemium mobile strategy video game developed and published by Finnish game developer Supercell. The game was released on iOS in August 2012 and on Android in October 2013.
#ClashofClans
Habitap Launches in Indonesia with the Unveiling of its Smart Home System at Savyavasa
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 28 April 2021 – Habitap has officially launched in Indonesia with the unveiling of its AI-backed smart home system at Savyavasa, a luxury residential development.
Savyavasa, a joint venture between Jakarta Setiabudi Internasional Group and Swire Properties, aims to create a secure environment where people can unwind and connect within a private community in shared social spaces. It will be integrated with Habitap’s smart living platform, changing the way residential communities work, live and play.
Each Savyavasa unit will be equipped with Habitap’s Smart Assistant, Handy, allowing residents to interact with their community. They can also control and manage their home via the Habitap mobile app or through messaging platforms such as WhatsApp. Built to be intuitive and understandable, Handy can do it all with a click of a button – from inviting guests and reserving facilities to operating appliances and ordering amenities, from wherever residents are at any time of the day.
Franklin Tang, founder and CEO of Habitap, said, “We are honoured to collaborate with one of Indonesia’s top real estate developers, to introduce our smart home system in Indonesia and launch it at Savyavasa. Using AI and the latest technological innovation to provide convenience and connectivity, Habitap has always stayed true to its vision of bringing the smart living experience to people from all walks of life to create a strong community. Savyavasa encompasses this vision with a space for residents to feel the comfort of home while experiencing the convenience of flawless facilities and outstanding service. I believe this project will pave the way forward for Habitap in Indonesia and in the ASEAN region, as we seek to meet the needs of technologically-savvy homeowners.”
Habitap seamlessly combines community management, smart home control, and lifestyle offerings into a single platform. Through this collaboration, Savyavasa will push the boundaries of what is possible, creating spaces for people to feel the comfort of home and experience the convenience of flawless facilities in an urban parkland.
Savyavasa comprises three towers set amongst the lush landscape of Dharmawangsa, South Jakarta. It is located a few minutes away from business centres like Sudirman-Thamrin and Sudirman Center of Business District (SCBD), premium commercial centers such as Plaza Senayan and Pacific Place, and entertainment and lifestyle hubs in Kemang and Senopati.
For more information, please visit:
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/kdofw9ziwj9kxxv/AADGnIL4B8ldZwWCaLoscxbpa?dl=0
#Habitap
Pak Ngum Authorities Arrest Illegal Entrant From Thailand
A Thai national has been arrested for attempting to illegally enter the country by crossing the Mekong River.
Mortgage Master Raises SG$928,000 in Pre-Series A Funding to Deepen Support for Homeowners in Singapore and Expand into Indonesia
- Mortgage brokering platform helps homeowners in Singapore save more than SG$100 million in home loan repayments throughout the pandemic
- Strong business momentum in the past year convinced investors to inject a fresh round of capital investment for the company to accelerate growth
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 28 April 2021 – Mortgage Master, Asia’s one-stop mortgage brokering platform, announced today that it has raised SG$928,000 in a Pre-Series A funding round to build on strong customer momentum and accelerate overseas expansion. This round of investment was led by private angel investor Woon Young Jeong, and existing investors, including Bala Swaminathan, former President of Westpac International and Founder of S Cube Capital, and Andy Lim from Tembusu Partners.
The successful fundraising follows 12 months of consistent growth, which saw Mortgage Master triple its customer base in Singapore and help homeowners collectively reduce their monthly home loan repayments by more than SG$100 million. Since its launch, Mortgage Master has delivered unbiased advice for SG$4 billion worth of home loans and directly facilitated SG$800 million in home loan transactions on behalf of partner banks.
“Renewed funding from our investors reflects their confidence in our business model, growth trajectory, and our ability to meet a genuine need that has become more pronounced in recent months,” said
David Baey, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Mortgage Master.
“With Singaporeans seeking a greater financial cushion amidst pandemic-induced uncertainty, those who own homes have benefitted from having Mortgage Master identify and secure the most favourable mortgage refinancing rates across the market and ‘return’ them a significant amount of cash that would have otherwise gone to waste. We are humbled by the trust that has been placed in Mortgage Master all around and will use the investment wisely to double down on our commitment toward doing right by every homeowner,” added Baey.
The capital will be used to strengthen customer acquisition through customer education, forge strategic partnerships, and enter new markets. With the funding, Mortgage Master can continue transforming the mortgage landscape and create a home loan market that is beneficial to both homeowners and banks.
Benefits from Affordable Home Loans Extend to Other Aspects of Personal Finance
While Mortgage Master’s primary goal is to ensure that excessive mortgage repayments do not impede individuals’ home ownership aspirations, the Singapore-headquartered company recognises that homeowners must effectively juggle home loans alongside other considerations and obligations to sustain their financial well-being.
Part of Mortgage Master’s Pre-Series A funding will therefore be dedicated toward establishing strategic collaborations, including but not limited to partnerships with SNACK by Income to enhance homeowners’ personal insurance coverage; and 99.co to aid home seekers with affordability assessments before they embark on their house hunting journeys. Mortgage Master also seeks to help home buyers reorientate their personal finances and ensure financial well-being while they finance their dream homes in the current economic climate through engaging them on community platforms such as Seedly.
Expansion into Indonesia to Tackle Southeast Asia’s Highest Mortgage Rates
Mortgage Master aims to likewise eliminate inefficiencies in mortgage processes across Indonesia, while benefitting both the country’s homeowners and banks. Indonesia’s home loan interest rates – currently the highest in Southeast Asia[1] – have resulted in home affordability being a longstanding concern and home ownership rates in a city like Jakarta hovering at less than 50 percent[2].
To tackle this, Mortgage Master will leverage its funding to accelerate expansion into Indonesia. To date, the company has already established a local office and inked partnerships with five major banks. While exploring further partnerships, Mortgage Master Indonesia is simultaneously ensuring that its new staff on the ground complete the same proprietary training and adhere to the customer-centric sales management process that has earned the trust of homeowners in Singapore.
“Mortgage Master is on a mission to reshape the mortgage market in Singapore, Indonesia and across the region. By running a differentiated, customer-centric, and bank-agnostic model, the company offers a more transparent and efficient experience for customers’ journey to homeownership. What truly differentiates David and his team is their relentless focus on “doing what is right” for customers, while enabling partner banks to become more cost- and time-efficient. Mortgage Master is also accelerating its development in technology to address customers’ needs at scale, and I look forward to supporting the company as it strives to become the partner of choice for customers and business partners across the regional real estate ecosystem,” said Woon Young Jeong, seasoned angel investor and lead investor in Mortgage Master’s Pre-Series A funding round.
“Mortgage Master has exceeded my expectations since its last fundraise, which made my decision to increase my investment a straightforward one. What impresses me the most is the company’s ability to continuously establish itself as a credible and value-adding partner to all 16 licensed financial services institutions in Singapore, while maintaining its neutral platform status to give homeowners personalised advice and help them better afford the biggest purchase of their lives. I look forward to continuing to work together with David to transform the market in both Singapore and Indonesia,” said Bala Swaminathan, who was the lead investor in Mortgage Master’s previous seed funding round.
“Since 2018, Mortgage Master has stepped in to create a positive impact on a homeowner’s personal finances and plans for the future. My follow-on investment is a reinforcement of my belief that Mortgage Master is not just on track to become the trusted and preferred platform for people buying or refinancing a home, but also a strong partner of choice for other companies who have adjacent offerings in personal finance and are looking to drive positive and holistic impact on individuals’ financial well-being,” said Andy Lim from Tembusu Partners.
[1] Numbeo. Southeast Asia: Rankings by Country of Mortgage Interest Rate in Percentages. 2021.
[2] ResearchGate. Young Adults and Home Ownership in Jakarta, Indonesia. July 2020.
About Mortgage Master
Mortgage Master is Asia’s one-stop mortgage brokering platform for homeowners to find the best mortgage rates tailored to their needs. Founded in 2018 by former bankers who finally decided it was time to stop selling only one bank’s home loan product at a time, Mortgage Master is a neutral platform that partners with all banks and empowers them to behave the way they should – in homeowners’ best interests.
Driven by a team with extensive leadership, technology and sales expertise in corporate finance, personal finance, mortgage-related industries and FinTech innovation, Mortgage Master has transacted more than SG$800 million in home loans and delivered unbiased advice for SG$4 billion in mortgages since its launch. Committed to always doing right by the customer, Mortgage Master has advised more than 8,000 homeowners and saved them SG$100 million per year in home loan interest repayments.
For more information, please visit: mortgagemaster.com.sg.
#MortgageMaster
Transport your tastebuds to Japan with unforgettable flavours of 7-Eleven’s all-new and exclusive Ready-to-Eat selections
Choose from a wide range of over fifteen brand-new items that use seasonal ingredients directly sourced from Japan, including onigiri, donburi rice bowls, exclusive crossover desserts with PABLO and more!
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 28 April 2021 – 7-Eleven is rolling out a long list of exciting ready-to-eat additions to take you on a culinary journey to one of the most popular foodie holiday destinations – yes, you guessed it, Japan! Whether you are looking for a light bite, a hearty meal, a hot drink or a sweet treat, we got you covered. Get ready to experience the flavours of Japan with our wide range of quality and convenient snacks and meals!

#7Eleven #7ElevenSG #7ElevenJapanSpring
Japanese-inspired light bites for those on the go
Looking for a typical Japanese breakfast or speedy snack? Then a 7-SELECT Onigiri (Usual Price $2.20 each, Promo Price: Any 3 for $6) will hit the spot. 7-Eleven has created three new rice ball varieties that are packed with flavour.
7-SELECT Sakura Ebi Onigiri: Enjoy the taste of spring in Japan in a rice ball! Sakura-flavoured rice is mixed with dried shrimp and edamame and topped with succulent prawn tempura. It tastes just as good as it looks!
7-SELECT Soba Meshi Onigiri: If you are a noodle fan, then you will love this bite-sized treat that boasts the perfect mix of yakisoba and Japanese-style fried rice with tasty roasted teriyaki chicken chunks at its centre.
7-SELECT Smoked Duck Shiso Onigiri: Slices of premium smoked duck glazed with a slightly sweet yet savoury yuzu and plum sauce are placed on top of fragrant shiso rice. Experience this unique combination of flavours and textures.
7-Eleven is also launching 7-SELECT Oden (Usual Price $2.80) – a classic staple that can be found in every convenience store in Japan. Fishcakes, daikon slices and konnyaku are simmered in a light soy-flavoured dashi broth and make for a quick light meal or a healthier option to satisfy late-night munchies.
7-SELECT Asari Clam Soup (Usual Price $2.50) is the ideal side dish or starter. This broth is loaded with umami flavours – juicy Asari clams, shimeji mushrooms and silken tofu combined in a miso soup base.
In addition, we have also created two new sandwich options for a convenient light lunch on the go. Try the 7-SELECT Chicken Katsu Burger (Promo Price $3.30, Usual Price $3.60) or the delicious 7-SELECT Taro Pocket Sandwich (Usual Price $2.30).
Hearty meals that are full of flavour and super convenient
Rice bowls are the quintessential Japanese comfort meal and 7-SELECT are launching three donburi dishes with a selection of tempting toppings:
7-SELECT Oyakodon (Usual Price $4.50): Oyakodon is a traditional Japanese dish that contains chicken and egg simmered in a moreish dashi-based sauce and pan-fried onions served over a bowl of fluffy steamed rice.
7-SELECT Saba Shioyaki Don (Usual Price $4.80): If you prefer seafood, then this delicious dish will not disappoint. This one-bowl meal features grilled boneless saba fillet imported from Japan, gobo or Japanese burdock root salad, sweet yet savoury tamagoyaki omelette, and is topped off with shibazuke, a deliciously salty and slightly sour cucumber and eggplant pickle.
7-SELECT Beef Sukiyaki Don (Usual Price $4.80): Last but not least, this crowd-pleasing combo is the ultimate comfort in a bowl – rice and noodles come together in a light broth topped off with succulent thinly sliced beef, Chinese cabbage and fragrant shiitake mushroom.
If you’re a noodle lover, do not miss the 7-SELECT Omusoba (Usual Price $4.20). This all-time favourite Japanese dish consists of seasoned fried egg noodles, sliced chicken roll and vegetables wrapped up in a light and fluffy omelette.
What’s more, if you buy any of the above 7-SELECT rice bowls or Omusoba, you can enjoy $0.50 off 7-SELECT Asari Clam Soup or 7-SELECT Oden from 14 April – 11 May 2021!
Exclusive crossover desserts with PABLO and 7-Eleven’s matcha-flavoured delights!
If you have a sweet tooth and yearn for scrumptious Japanese desserts, then the next items on the menu are specially for you. 7-Eleven has collaborated with PABLO, a renowned cheese tart bakery from Osaka, to launch two exclusive limited-edition crossover items brought in directly from Japan.
The 7-SELECT x PABLO Apricot Jelly and Cheese Cream Puff (Usual Price $3.30) is a custardy treat filled with PABLO’s signature cream cheese and a sweet and slightly tart apricot jelly – a sensational combination of flavours! Alternatively, try the 7-SELECT x PABLO Cheese Swiss Roll Cake (Usual Price $3.30) – a swirl of slightly savoury cream cheese runs through this buttery, featherlight swiss roll cake that is made with 100% Japanese flour.
Matcha, undoubtedly an iconic flavour of Japan, will be making an appearance at 7-Eleven stores in not one, but two exclusive items this month! Treat yourself to a smooth and creamy cup of Mr Softee Matcha (Usual Price $1.50), a brand-new flavour of your favourite soft serve. Plus, we are also launching the 7Café Matcha Latte – available hot or iced! Made from handpicked young green tea leaves, this milky and frothy drink will take you back to Japan in an instant.
To mark the launch of this new range, 7-Eleven is running an array of exciting discount and combo offers:
|
Product |
RSP |
Promotion |
Promo Period |
Launch Date |
|
7-SELECT Saba Shioyaki Don |
$4.80 |
Buy Saba Shioyaki Don/ Oyakodon/ Beef Sukiyaki Don/Omusoba and get $0.50 off Asari Clam Soup/Oden |
14 Apr – 11 May 2021 |
14 Apr 2021 |
|
7-SELECT Oyakodon |
$4.50 |
|||
|
7-SELECT Asari Clam Soup |
$2.50 |
|||
|
7-SELECT Oden |
$2.80 |
|||
|
7-SELECT Sakura Ebi Onigiri |
$2.20 |
Any 3 for $6 |
||
|
7-SELECT Smoked Duck Shiso Onigiri |
||||
|
7-SELECT Soba Meshi Onigiri |
||||
|
7-SELECT Omusoba |
$4.20 |
Buy Saba Shioyaki Don/ Oyakodon/ Beef Sukiyaki Don/Omusoba and get $0.50 off Asari Clam Soup/Oden |
21 Apr 2021 |
|
|
7-SELECT Beef Sukiyaki Don |
$4.80 |
|||
|
7-SELECT Chicken Katsu Burger |
$3.60 |
$3.30 |
14 Apr 2021 |
|
|
7-SELECT Taro Pocket Sandwich |
$2.30 |
$3 Combo Deal with 7Café Hot Americano, excluding Mondays (Usual Price $3.80) |
||
|
7Café Matcha Latte (Hot/Iced) |
$2.40 (Hot) $3.00 (Iced) |
$2 (Hot) $2.50 (Iced) |
14 Apr – 30 Apr 2021 |
|
|
Mr Softee Matcha |
$1.50 |
– |
– |
26 Apr 2021 |
|
7-SELECT x PABLO Apricot Jelly & Cheese Cream Puff |
$3.30 |
Any 2 for $6 |
19 Apr – 11 May |
19 Apr 2021 |
|
7-SELECT x PABLO Apricot Jelly & Cheese Cream Roll Cake |
More promotions and updates are on the
7-Eleven Singapore Facebook page so stay tuned! Find your nearest 7-Eleven Store here.
About 7-Eleven
Established in Singapore in 1983, 7-Eleven has since expanded to more than 400 stores island-wide to become the leading 24-hour convenience chain store. We take pride in serving the Singapore community 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. 7-Eleven emphasises convenience and value by offering a wide array of quality products, food and services to satisfy the needs of its customers. Think 7-Eleven and what comes to mind are the refreshing Slurpee, 7Café as well as a wide range of quality ready meals and sandwiches under 7-SELECT. 7-Eleven is also a 24/7 one-stop destination for customers who need to access bill payment services in their own time. Our services cover payment of utilities, courier services, and even cash withdrawal.
For more information, visit www.7-eleven.com.sg
#7Eleven #7ElevenSG #7ElevenJapanSpring







