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Amazing Thailand Passport Privileges @ HAT YAI launches with Amazing Bag gifting activity

Campaign invites regional travellers to rediscover Southern Thailand through exclusive privileges and curated local experiences

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 April 2026 – The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) announces the launch of Amazing Thailand Passport Privileges @ HAT YAI, a series of on-the-ground initiatives designed to revitalize tourism across Southern Thailand. Running from 1 to 30 April 2026, the campaign features the “Amazing Bag” gifting activity, a lucky draw with prizes worth over 500,000 Baht, and exclusive privileges redeemable at more than 100 outlets across the region.

Amazing Thailand Passport Privileges @Hat Yai

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “Southern Thailand continues to captivate visitors with its rich culinary heritage, warm hospitality, and diverse cultural and natural attractions. Through Amazing Thailand Passport Privileges @ HAT YAI, TAT extends a direct invitation to travellers to experience the region with confidence. The South is fully prepared to welcome visitors, and this initiative ensures they feel engaged and valued from the moment they arrive.”

Developed in collaboration with public agencies, private sector partners, and tourism operators, the campaign brings together more than 100 participating restaurants, hotels, and retail establishments offering exclusive privileges and discounts across a wide range of products and services.

A key highlight is the “Amazing Bag”, a curated lucky gift presented to international visitors, featuring handcrafted items that reflect the identity and craftsmanship of Southern Thailand. These include herbal inhalers from Songkhla, tie-dye textiles from Surat Thani, batik tote bags from Nakhon Si Thammarat, tie-dye products from Trang, krajood bags from Phatthalung, batik card holders from Pattani, batik hats from Narathiwat, and upcycled batik keychains from Krabi. Visitors also have the chance to win a Lucky Bag containing prizes from tourism partners, with a combined value exceeding 500,000 Baht.

International travellers arriving via Hat Yai International Airport, Sadao Customs House, or Padang Besar Customs House during the campaign period can participate by presenting their passport at designated activity booths to receive an Amazing Bag. A QR code inside provides access to exclusive privileges redeemable across participating establishments throughout Southern Thailand.

TAT projects the campaign will generate no less than 480 million Baht in tourism revenue, contributing to the region’s economic recovery while reinforcing positive perceptions of Southern Thailand as a welcoming and vibrant destination.

For more information, visit www.tourismthailand.org/amazingthailandpassportprivileges

Hashtag: #TAT

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

Pi Mai Lao Still On Despite Confusion Over Defense Ministry Notice

A picture of water festival in Luang Prabang, Laos. (Phot by VNA)

The government notice on suspending Pi Mai Lao celebrations has caused widespread misunderstanding online, with many believing the festival has been cancelled nationwide. In fact, the suspension applies only to units under the Ministry of National Defense.

The announcement, issued on 30 March by the Lao People’s Army Office under the Ministry of National Defense, instructed departments, offices, schools, and units under its authority to suspend Pi Mai Lao celebrations.

Officials said the decision was based on economic pressure, the ongoing war in the Middle East, and recent natural disasters, including hailstorms that damaged homes.

The misunderstanding spread after the notice went viral without full context, leading some social media users to believe it applied to the entire country. 

Its release on social media on 1 April also raised doubts, with some questioning whether it was genuine.

One user questioned “factual news or fake news,” showing confusion over whether the news was real or an April Fool’s joke.

Meanwhile, others expressed frustration at the timing and overall situation commented “why it is so chaotic, just enjoy Pi Mai Lao” pointing how people feel stressed over rising living costs, recent storms, and economic pressure, while telling people to calm down and enjoy Pi Mai Lao. 

Amid the confusion, criticism also emerged over how the information was shared. 

One person said “please edit the headline to match the announcement,” while another added “the news outlets spread the news they want, but the majority of the readers do not understand it.” 

These comments criticized unclear headlines and the spread of incomplete information.

Despite the confusion, there has been no official announcement cancelling Pi Mai Lao celebrations for the general public. 

The festival is expected to proceed as normal across the country.

PATIENT TRUST AND QUALITY CARE DRIVE MALAYSIA’S GROWING HEALTHCARE REPUTATION

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As Malaysia’s healthcare ecosystem continues to strengthen its reputation for quality and innovation, Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur (PHKL), part of the IHH Healthcare multinational network has been recognised as one of the World’s Best Hospitals for 2026 by Newsweek. The recognition reflects not only clinical excellence, but also the growing trust patients place in healthcare institutions that prioritise safety, experience, and continuity of care, and adds to Malaysia’s growing visibility as a destination for high-quality healthcare.

The annual global ranking evaluates hospitals across several key pillars including hospital quality metrics and accreditations, peer recommendations from healthcare professionals, patient experience, and the implementation of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs). In Malaysia, hospital accreditations and patient experience play a particularly important role in the evaluation due to limited publicly available clinical data.

PHKL’s inclusion in the global list comes at a time when Malaysia’s healthcare sector continues to gain international attention, with institutions like PHKL treating a growing number of international patients.

Ms. Chong Soon Mei, who was recently appointed Chief Executive Officer of Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur, said: “Healthcare continues to advance through strong medical expertise and close collaboration across the ecosystem. Institutions like Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur are proud to contribute to raising the standard of care both locally and regionally.”

Patient trust remains a cornerstone of PHKL’s philosophy of care. The hospital closely monitors patient satisfaction through its Net Promoter Score (NPS) framework, with feedback reviewed across departments such as the emergency department, specialist centres, and inpatient wards. This structured approach enables the hospital to continually improve service delivery while ensuring that patient needs remain central to every aspect of care.

Malaysia’s growing reputation as a healthcare destination is also reflected in PHKL’s diverse patient community. Approximately 20% of patients treated at the hospital come from overseas, including Indonesia, the United Kingdom, the United States, Japan, Korea, Singapore, China, Cambodia, and Australia. PHKL’s International Patient Centre supports these patients with personalised coordination throughout their treatment journey, helping them navigate consultations, treatment planning, and recovery while away from home.

As part of its continued commitment to meeting the needs of a growing international patient base, PHKL continues to invest in world-class medical technologies, internationally accredited clinical protocols, and continuous training of its specialists to meet the evolving expectations of global patients. The hospital also continues to strengthen its network of international partnerships and referral channels, ensuring seamless access for patients seeking care across borders with a strong emphasis on cultural sensitivity, multilingual support, and concierge-level services throughout their healthcare journey.

As global demand for trusted healthcare destinations continues to grow, PHKL invites patients and partners alike to experience a standard of care that is not only clinically sound but also thoughtfully personalised to ensure patients feel supported and at ease throughout their experience.

This commitment is reflected in how PHKL supports patients beyond treatment.The hospital’s Patient Navigator service, particularly valued by cancer patients, helps individuals and their families navigate complex treatment pathways by coordinating appointments, guiding them through treatment decisions, and ensuring they receive the support they need at every stage of care.

The hospital also introduces patient-focused initiatives designed to enhance comfort and wellbeing. During the Ramadan period, for example, PHKL provided travel-sized prayer mats to Muslim patients admitted to the hospital, reflecting its commitment to culturally sensitive and compassionate care.

“At PHKL, we focus on supporting patients throughout their entire health journey,” Ms. Chong said. “This includes not only treatment but also preventive care, education, and encouraging early health screenings so that individuals are empowered to take charge of their health.”

For Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur, the recognition is meaningful, but it is also a reminder of the responsibility that comes with it. As more patients from across the region choose Malaysia for their care, PHKL remains focused on what has always mattered most: ensuring that every patient, whether from down the road or across the world, receives a standard of safe, compassionate, and expert care.

It is a commitment that has guided the hospital since it first opened its doors in 1974 and one that continues to shape the care PHKL delivers to every patient who walks through them today.

For more information on Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur and its award-winning services, visit www.pantai.com.my/kuala-lumpur.

Download the press release and images from this link.

About Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur

Established in 1974, Pantai Hospital Kuala Lumpur (PHKL), part of the IHH Healthcare multinational network, is one of Malaysia’s most established centres for specialised and complex care. Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the hospital is licensed for more than 500 beds and supported by over 200 consultants across a range of medical and surgical specialties.

As a quaternary care provider, PHKL manages complex medical conditions and advanced procedures through multidisciplinary care, supported by modern medical technology and integrated clinical expertise. The hospital continues to advance clinical research, innovation and medical education to meet evolving healthcare needs in Malaysia and internationally.

PHKL’s commitment to quality is reflected in internationally recognised accreditations, including Joint Commission International and the Malaysian Society for Quality in Health. It has also been designated a Baby-Friendly Hospital by the Ministry of Health Malaysia and the World Health Organization since 2001. The hospital is recognised among Newsweek’s World’s Best Hospitals and Asia’s Top Private Hospitals, and has received the World Stroke Organization Angels Awards for delivering timely, evidence-based stroke care.

With over 50 years of service, PHKL remains committed to delivering world-class care while strengthening its position as a trusted healthcare institution in Malaysia and across the region.

16th Malaysia Gifts Fair 2026 Officially Launched; Set to Be Largest Edition Yet

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The 16th Malaysia Gifts Fair (MGF 2026) was officially launched today at the Connexion Conference & Event Centre (CCEC), Bangsar South, marking the beginning of preparations for Malaysia’s premier gifts and premium trade exhibition.

Malaysia Gifts Fair 2026 Officially Launched, Returning Bigger and Stronger Than Ever
Malaysia Gifts Fair 2026 Officially Launched, Returning Bigger and Stronger Than Ever

Organised by the Malaysian Gifts & Premium Association (MGPA), the upcoming edition is set to be the largest and most comprehensive in the fair’s history, further strengthening Malaysia’s position as a key gifting and sourcing hub within the ASEAN region.

MGPA President, Mr. Ivan Loo, highlighted the evolving landscape of the gifting industry, noting that businesses are increasingly prioritising value, sustainability, and brand relevance. He emphasised that gifts and premiums now play a strategic role in enhancing brand engagement, employee recognition, and customer loyalty.

He further shared those advancements in automation, customisation, and digital integration are transforming manufacturing and sourcing practices. Beyond its commercial impact, the fair continues to support a broad ecosystem of SMEs and industry players, contributing to trade growth, innovation, and regional collaboration.

The 2026 theme, “Redefining Sustainable Gifting for a Better Tomorrow,” reflects the industry’s growing commitment to responsible sourcing, ethical production, and long-term sustainability.

Organising Chairman, Mr. Alex Chai, shared that the 15th edition in 2025 achieved over RM50 million in trade value, attracting 14,623 buyers and visitors, alongside 147 exhibitors across 301 booths. The fair has also received notable recognitions, including the Malaysia Book of Records (2023) and ASEAN Records (2025).

The upcoming edition is projected to welcome over 16,000 visitors and will expand to four exhibition halls (Halls 1–4) at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre. It will feature over 400 booths across 10 product categories, including sustainable gifts, customised merchandise, printing, packaging, souvenirs, and machinery solutions. The increase of international participation is also expected, reinforcing Malaysia’s role as a gateway to ASEAN markets.

This year’s gifts fair will also see increased international participation, with international exhibitors from Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, Hong Kong SAR, Taiwan region, Korea, India and Bangladesh bringing curated country groupings and global sourcing opportunities, further strengthening Malaysia’s position as a gateway to ASEAN markets.

The official launch event also included a Market Development Grant (MDG) briefing, providing exhibitors with valuable insights into funding support to enhance their market outreach.

16th Malaysia Gifts Fair 2026 will take place from 30 June to 2 July 2026 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, offering expanded business opportunities, stronger regional connections, and a renewed focus on sustainable and future-ready gifting solutions.

For more information, please visit: www.malaysiagiftsfair.com.my

BYDFi Marks 6th Anniversary with Month-Long Celebration, Built for Reliability

VICTORIA, Seychelles, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Global crypto trading platform BYDFi will mark its 6th anniversary with a month-long celebration beginning on April 1, 2026, highlighting BYDFi’s evolution into an all-in-one crypto trading platform built on a CEX + DEX dual-engine model. Over six years, BYDFi has strengthened infrastructure, user safeguards, and market access, reinforcing an operating foundation built for reliability.

BYDFi celebrates its 6th anniversary with a month-long celebration themed
BYDFi celebrates its 6th anniversary with a month-long celebration themed “Built for Reliability,” featuring a football stadium backdrop, crypto tokens, and a cannon with a soccer ball, symbolizing the platform’s partnership with Newcastle United and its global reach of over 1 million users

A Month-Long Celebration for BYDFi’s 6th Anniversary

Beginning on April 1, 2026, BYDFi’s anniversary program will feature rewards of more than $1,000,000 USDT.

BYDFi celebrates its 6th anniversary with a month-long event featuring three signature activities, a $1,000,000 prize pool, and a football-themed promotion, highlighting its commitment to reliability and user engagement
BYDFi celebrates its 6th anniversary with a month-long event featuring three signature activities, a $1,000,000 prize pool, and a football-themed promotion, highlighting its commitment to reliability and user engagement

BYDFi’s anniversary campaign will center on three major events: Warm-Up Tasks, covering onboarding, first trades, fiat purchase rewards, referrals, and community participation; Shoot to Win, a football-themed lucky-draw experience; and the Futures Golden Ball Cup, a two-round futures trading competition.

Together, these three events give both new and existing users more ways to join BYDFi’s 6th anniversary while reflecting BYDFi’s broader journey over the past six years.

For more event details, please visit the official website: BYDFi 6th Anniversary.

BYDFi’s Evolution: From Core Trading to Broader Market Access

Over the past six years, BYDFi has grown into a global crypto trading platform serving more than 1 million users across 190+ countries and regions. Since launch, BYDFi has broadened product offerings, strengthened user safeguards, and expanded across both centralized and onchain trading.

Recent milestones shaped BYDFi’s growth:

  • July 2025: BYDFi supported tokenized U.S. equities through xStocks.
  • August 2025: BYDFi entered a multi-year partnership with Newcastle United.
  • August 2025: BYDFi launched BYDFi Card.
  • February 2026: BYDFi launched TradFi trading on Web and App, extending access to stocks, gold, and silver.
  • March 2026: BYDFi integrated perpetual futures market data into TradingView.

Global Presence, Industry Recognition, and the Reliability Behind the Platform

From June 2025 through March 2026, BYDFi built visibility across Asia and Europe through appearances in Seoul, Bali, Lisbon, Hong Kong, Bucharest, and Warsaw, strengthening industry connections and reinforcing BYDFi’s long-term market commitment.

Over the same period, BYDFi received the following industry recognitions:

  1. Trusted Exchange Award at the TrustFinance Performance Awards
  2. Outstanding Crypto Trading Platform at the FinanceFeeds Awards
  3. BeInCrypto recognition in the Best Centralized Exchange (CEX) category
  4. Best All-in-One Crypto Trading Platform at Crypto Expo Europe 2026
  5. Best Global Crypto Trading Platform at Next Block Expo 2026

Behind this progress is the operating foundation BYDFi continues to build around reliability. BYDFi holds MSB registrations in the U.S. and Canada and is a member of South Korea’s CODE VASP Alliance. BYDFi also maintains 100%+ Proof of Reserves with periodic public reporting and reinforces this transparency with an 800 BTC Protection Fund. Together with 24/7 multilingual support and timely official-channel responses, these measures reflect a user-first standard built for clarity, protection, and trust.

Looking Ahead: Building the Next Chapter of BYDFi

BYDFi is entering the next stage with a continued focus on product strength, user protection, and long-term trust. Michael, Co-Founder and CEO of BYDFi, shares:

“Six years is an important milestone for BYDFi, but what matters more is what BYDFi continues to build from here. Users expect consistency, clear standards, and continuous improvement as needs evolve.”

He further adds, “For BYDFi, the next chapter is about strengthening the fundamentals: better infrastructure, stronger user protections, broader market access, and a trading experience designed to be practical, stable, and trusted over the long term.”

About BYDFi

Established in 2020, BYDFi is a global crypto trading platform that combines the power of a centralized exchange (CEX) with an integrated onchain trading module. Recognized by Forbes as one of the Best Crypto Exchanges In Canada For 2026, BYDFi offers intuitive, low-fee trading across Spot and Perpetual Contracts to Copy Trading, and Automated Crypto Trading Bots, empowering both new and experienced traders to navigate digital assets with confidence.

BYDFi is dedicated to delivering a world-class crypto trading experience for every user.

BUIDL Your Dream Finance.

Twitter( X ) | LinkedIn | Telegram | YouTube | TikTok | How to Buy on BYDFi

LEIFRAS Co., Ltd. Signs Sponsorship Agreement with the Japan Sport Association (JSPO), Contributing to the Future of Sports

TOKYO, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — LEIFRAS Co., Ltd. (Nasdaq: LFS) (the “Company” or “Leifras”), a sports and social business company dedicated to youth sports and community engagement, today announced that it has signed a partnership agreement (the “Agreement”) to participate, from April 2026, as an official partner in the Sports Active Partner Program hosted by the Japan Sport Association (“JSPO”), a public interest incorporated foundation that plays a central role in Japan’s sports ecosystem. Through this collaboration, Leifras intends to combine JSPO’s nationwide network with the Company’s on-site know-how in youth sports education to support the development of next-generation infrastructure that delivers high-quality sports environments to children and sports instructors throughout Japan.

Background: Aligning Company Philosophy with Social Needs

Japan’s sports environment is currently undergoing a transition, with a declining birthrate, a shift of club activities to local communities, and a shortage of instructors. Addressing these social issues requires not only the power of national and local governments but also the participation of private sector organizations that actively promote sports on the ground.

JSPO is a non-profit private organization in the Japanese sports world that oversees youth sports clubs attended by approximately 650,000 registered members. It also co-organizes the Japan Games, one of Japan’s largest sports festivals with approximately 30,000 participating athletes. JSPO’s corporate message, “Towards a desirable future with sports, ” is well aligned with Leifras’ corporate philosophy, “Changing and designing sports.” This shared vision led to the collaboration between the two parties, which goes beyond mere sponsorship and aims to collaboratively solve social issues.

Collaborative Initiatives: Driving Bottom-Up Transformation in Youth Sports

As an official partner, Leifras expects to support JSPO’s activities and gain access to the “Selection Program,” which allows the Company to directly approach participants in JSPO-sponsored projects. The partnership is expected to enable Leifras to share its on-site know-how in the following areas and contribute to solving issues in the sports world.

  • Approaching youth sports groups and sports instructors: Leifras intends to create opportunities to deliver high-quality educational services and introduce its education methodology focused on developing non-cognitive skills, which the Company developed over the years, to 650,000 youth sports group members nationwide, their parents, and the sports instructors who support them.
  • Raising awareness and providing support through national sports events: Through events such as the Japan Games, the Company plans to promote the social value of sports and encourage the creation of an environment in which everyone, from athletes to citizens, can enjoy sports under the “Sport for All” philosophy.

Future Outlook: Accelerating Social Business on a Nationwide Scale

Through this collaboration (contract period: three years from April 2026 to March 2029), Leifras aims to leverage JSPO’s strong network and social impact to further enhance the Company’s brand recognition among local governments and educational institutions nationwide. The Company intends to accelerate its social business, including school club support, as well as its sports school business, on a national scale, and contribute to society as a platform that builds a sustainable, inclusive, and enriching sports environment throughout Japan.

About LEIFRAS Co., Ltd.

Headquartered in Tokyo, Leifras is a sports and social business company dedicated to youth sports and community engagement. The Company primarily provides services related to the organization and operations of sports schools and sports events for children. As of December 31, 2024, Leifras was recognized as one of Japan’s largest operators of children’s sports schools in terms of both membership and facilities by Tokyo Shoko Research. The Company’s approach to sports education emphasizes the development of non-cognitive skills, following the teaching principle “acknowledge, praise, encourage, and motivate.” The holistic approach that integrates physical and mental development sets Leifras apart in the industry. Building upon deep experience and know-how in sports education, Leifras also operates a robust social business sector, dispatching sports coaches to meet various community needs with the aim to promote physical health, social inclusion, and community well-being across different demographics.

For more information, please visit the Company’s website: https://ir.leifras.co.jp/.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on the Company’s current expectations and projections about future events that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy, and financial needs. Investors can find many (but not all) of these statements by the use of words such as “approximates,” “believes,” “hopes,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “estimates,” “projects,” “intends,” “plans,” “will,” “would,” “should,” “could,” “may,” or other similar expressions in this press release. The Company undertakes no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. These statements are subject to uncertainties and risks, including, but not limited to, the uncertainties related to market conditions, and other factors discussed in the “Risk Factors” section of the registration statement filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”). Although the Company believes that the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, it cannot assure you that such expectations will turn out to be correct, and the Company cautions investors that actual results may differ materially from the anticipated results and encourages investors to review other factors that may affect its future results in the registration statement and other filings with the SEC. Additional factors are discussed in the Company’s filings with the SEC, which are available for review at www.sec.gov.

For more information, please contact:

LEIFRAS Co., Ltd.
Investor Relations Department
Email: IR@leifras.co.jp

Ascent Investor Relations LLC
Tina Xiao
Phone: +1-646-932-7242
Email: investors@ascent-ir.com

 

Manulife Wealth & Asset Management Completes Acquisition of Schroders Indonesia

HONG KONG and JAKARTA, Indonesia, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Manulife Wealth & Asset Management today announced that it has completed its previously announced transaction to acquire PT Schroder Investment Management Indonesia (“SIMI”) through PT Manulife Aset Manajemen Indonesia (“MAMI”), following the satisfactory completion of closing conditions including regulatory approval from the Otoritas Jasa Keuangan (OJK).

This milestone signals the start of the implementation phase and the structured integration of MAMI and SIMI. During the integration period, Manulife Wealth & Asset Management will operate both MAMI and SIMI in parallel, maintaining their current structures while implementing a phased integration. Clients, partners, and employees will receive regular updates on branding, product changes, and operational enhancements to ensure clarity and continuity throughout the transition.

“We are pleased to mark the formal addition of Schroders Indonesia to Manulife Wealth & Asset Management,” said Fabio Fontainha, Head of Wealth and Asset Management, Asia, Manulife. “The completion of this acquisition reflects our long–term commitment to Indonesia and further consolidates MAMI’s position as the country’s largest asset manager. By combining the capabilities of two leading asset managers, we are shaping a stronger, more future–ready platform—one with the scale, innovation capacity, and global insight to broaden our offerings and elevate the value we deliver to clients. It strengthens our foundation for growth and positions us to navigate changing market conditions with clarity and a sustained focus on long–term value creation.”
With the close of the transaction, MAMI’s established leadership and global investment insights will be complemented by SIMI’s in-market investment expertise and its long-standing intermediary and institutional relationships. Together, the combined platform will offer enhanced scale, deeper investment resources, and a broader suite of solutions designed to deliver attractive long–term outcomes across market cycles.

Afifa, CEO & President Director, PT Manulife Aset Manajemen Indonesia, said, “This is an important moment for both organisations. As MAMI marks its 30th anniversary this year, this acquisition represents more than a transaction — it opens a new chapter in our path toward even greater impact. Bringing together the talent and expertise of MAMI and Schroders Indonesia enhances our ability to deliver high–quality investment solutions and reinforces our leadership in Indonesia’s growing asset management industry.”

Michael T. Tjoajadi, CEO & President Director, Schroders Indonesia, added, “For more than three decades, our team has been dedicated to building a trusted, client–focused franchise. Joining MAMI marks an important next chapter—one that preserves the strengths and culture our people are proud of, while providing access to broader resources, deeper capabilities, and new opportunities for growth. We look forward to contributing our expertise as part of a larger, highly respected organisation.”

Prior to the acquisition, MAMI had long since established itself as the country’s largest asset manager, supported by a well–grounded presence in Indonesia’s investment landscape. The firm offers a comprehensive suite of solutions across mutual funds, segregated mandates, and sharia–compliant products. As of 31 December 2025, MAMI oversaw IDR 124.3 trillion in assets and served more than 2.5 million customers, underscoring its extensive local reach and robust financial services platform.

Schroders has operated in Indonesia since 1991, establishing the investment management business in 1997. It has grown to become one of the country’s leading asset managers, with a strong focus on excellence and client-centric solutions, providing comprehensive investment services to help clients achieve their financial goals. SIMI has established a solid on-the-ground investment team and developed a robust distribution network across the country’s intermediary channels, while maintaining deep partnerships with leading institutional investors. The firm has received over 140 awards at both the company and fund levels since 2003, from local and international entities. As of December 2025, SIMI manages assets totaling more than IDR 53 trillion.

For more information on the transaction, please see the news release from our announcement on 24 September, 2025.

About Manulife Wealth & Asset Management
As part of Manulife Financial Corporation, Manulife Wealth & Asset Management’s mission is to make decisions easier and lives better by helping people invest confidently to pursue a more secure financial future. Our strength comes from the diversity of our global asset management expertise and distribution capabilities. Our global investment teams span equities, fixed income, alternative credit, private markets, and multi-asset solutions. We provide investment, financial advice, and retirement plan services to millions of individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. At the heart of our approach are three cultural pillars: Partner for Progress, Trust through Transparency, and Intellectual Curiosity. These values shape how we build long-term relationships, develop differentiated investment strategies, and empower advisors and clients to seek meaningful financial outcomes. Whether through cutting-edge technology, AI innovation, personalized advice, or sustainable stewardship, Manulife Wealth & Asset Management is a trusted partner helping clients navigate complexity and invest with confidence. Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulifeim.com.

About PT Manulife Aset Manajemen Indonesia (MAMI)
PT Manulife Aset Manajemen Indonesia (MAMI) is Indonesia’s largest investment manager by total assets under management (AUM), managing IDR 124.3 trillion and holding an 11.9% market share as of December 2025. MAMI is also the largest mutual fund manager in the country, overseeing IDR 63 trillion in mutual fund assets as of the same period.

For more than 30 years since 1996, MAMI has supported the financial journeys of over 2.5 million individual and institutional investors across Indonesia. Through a comprehensive range of investment solutions including mutual funds, MAMI is committed to consistently delivering high quality investment products, reinforcing its position as the largest mutual fund investment manager in Indonesia.

MAMI has received numerous awards and recognitions from independent institutions as one of the leading investment management companies. In 2026, MAMI received the Best Asset Management Company award for the 10th time and the Best Bond Manager award for the 3rd time from Asia Asset Management, as well as the Market Awards for Indonesia at AsianInvestor’s Asset Management Awards 2026. MAMI has also maintained its position as a Top Investment House in Asian Rupiah Bonds for 11 consecutive years.

MAMI is part of Manulife Wealth & Asset Management, and is licensed and supervised by the Financial Services Authority (OJK), holding an investment manager license based on Capital Market Supervisory Agency Chairman’s Decree No. Kep–07/PM/MI/1997 dated August 21, 1997, and an investment advisor license based on OJK Board of Commissioners’ Decree No. Kep–50/D.04/2018 dated September 10, 2018.

About Schroders plc 

Schroders is a global investment manager which provides active asset management, wealth management and investment solutions, with £823.7 billion (€943.4 billion; $1107.9 billion) of assets under management at 31 December 2025. As a UK listed FTSE100 company, Schroders has a market capitalisation of circa £6.5 billion and operates across 38 locations. Established in 1804, Schroders remains true to its roots as a family-founded business. The Principal Shareholder Group continues to be a significant shareholder, holding approximately 44% of the issued share capital. Schroders’ success can be attributed to its diversified business model, spanning different asset classes, client types and geographies. The company offers innovative products and solutions through four core business divisions: Public Markets, Solutions, Wealth Management, and Schroders Capital, which focuses on private markets, including private equity, renewable infrastructure investing, private debt & credit alternatives, and real estate.  Schroders aims to provide excellent investment performance to clients through active management. This means directing capital towards resilient businesses with sustainable business models, consistently with the investment goals of its clients. Schroders serves a diverse client base that includes pension schemes, insurance companies, sovereign wealth funds, endowments, foundations, high net worth individuals, family offices, as well as end clients through partnerships with distributors, financial advisers, and online platforms. Issued by Schroder Investment Management Limited. Registration No 1893220 England. Authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.  For regular updates by e-mail please register online at www.schroders.com for our alerting service.

Media Contact
Carl Wong
Manulife Wealth & Asset Management, Asia
Phone: +852 6373 7830
Email: carl_kk_wong@manulifeam.com 

Clarence Chen
Schroders
Phone: +65 6800 7397
Email: clarence.chen@Schroders.com 

 

Elliott Management Statement on Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd.

LONDON, April 1, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Elliott Investment Management L.P. and Elliott Advisors (UK) Limited (“Elliott”), which advise funds that together have a significant investment in Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (“Mitsui O.S.K.” or the “Company”), today issued the following statement:

Elliott notes the initiatives outlined in Mitsui O.S.K.’s new Medium-Term Management Plan (“MTMP”) as positive steps toward improving shareholder returns and increasing capital efficiency. However, Elliott remains concerned that the MTMP does not go far enough in closing Mitsui O.S.K.’s significant gap in shareholder returns to its peers or concretely addressing the large unrealized gains from vessels and real estate on the Company’s balance sheet. Mitsui O.S.K. must more ambitiously confront the factors behind its deep undervaluation. Elliott is committed to working constructively with the Company on the steps needed to achieve its stated goal of trading at a premium to book value.

About Elliott

Elliott Investment Management L.P. (together with its affiliates, “Elliott”) manages approximately $79.8 billion of assets as of December 31, 2025. Founded in 1977, it is one of the oldest funds under continuous management. The Elliott funds’ investors include pension plans, sovereign wealth funds, endowments, foundations, funds-of-funds, high net worth individuals and families, and employees of the firm. Elliott Advisors (UK) Limited is an affiliate of Elliott Investment Management L.P.

Media Contacts:

London
Stijn van de Grampel
Elliott Advisors (UK) Limited
T: +44 20 3009 1061
svdgrampel@elliottadvisors.co.uk

New York
Stephen Spruiell
Elliott Investment Management L.P.
T: +1 (212) 478-2017
sspruiell@elliottmgmt.com

Tokyo
Brett Wallbutton
Ashton Consulting
T: +81 (0) 3 5425-7220
b.wallbutton@ashton.jp