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Tokyo, Bangkok Aligned to Fight Disasters and Other Common Challenges

TOKYO, March 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In a display of global city strategy, the governors of Tokyo and Bangkok have lined up to tackle climate-linked natural disasters, an aging and shrinking population, and other challenges facing their bustling Asian megalopolises.

Governor of Tokyo, Koike Yuriko and Governor of Bangkok, Chadchart Sittipunt
Governor of Tokyo, Koike Yuriko and Governor of Bangkok, Chadchart Sittipunt

Tokyo Governor Koike Yuriko and her Bangkok counterpart Chadchart Sittipunt signed a joint communiqué when they met for about an hour at the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration building on February 6, the second day of Ms. Koike’s three-day stay in Bangkok at the invitation of Mr. Chadchart.

Joint COMMUNIQUÉ signed
Joint COMMUNIQUÉ signed

The statement commits the two governors to work together to build sustainable cities through addressing urban challenges such as “declining birthrates, aging populations and the creation of innovation.”

 In the document, Ms. Koike emphasizes the importance of city-to-city cooperation in responding to “increasingly frequent and severe” natural disasters occurring worldwide amid climate change.

“A more livable city for everyone”

Meeting Bangkok Governor
Meeting Bangkok Governor

“With this joint communiqué as a new first step, we want to move forward as partners in identifying common challenges and finding solutions,” the Tokyo governor said at a joint news conference following the signing ceremony. “We aim to make its effects felt by the respective citizens of Bangkok and Tokyo.”

Mr. Chadchart said he hoped the knowledge gained from this cooperation will benefit his citizens and help make Bangkok “a more livable city for everyone.” “We want to study some of Tokyo’s (flood-response) models,” he said referring to massive floods that have regularly hit Bangkok and elsewhere in Thailand. The governor also expressed interest in learning from Tokyo’s sewerage and waterworks measures.

His comment resonates with the slogan used by the former structural engineer to make Bangkok, a hub for the Southeast Asian region, “a livable city for everyone” when he won the 2022 gubernatorial election.

He aims to put Bangkok among the top 50 livable cities in the world by 2027, focusing on sustainable development that meets the needs of its 5.4 million residents.

Ms. Koike, a former member of national parliament who was elected in 2016 as Tokyo’s first female governor, also has a grand design for the Japanese capital city of 14 million that is the core of the world’s largest metropolitan area.

As part of Tokyo’s strategy for 2050, her administration has recently set policy targets for 2035, including an effort to make Tokyo the “best city in the world” that strikes a balance between ongoing “growth” and “maturity,” and makes people feel happy.

“Green infrastructure”, an underground network to tame floods

Learning Disaster Prevention @Phrakanong Pumping Station
Learning Disaster Prevention @Phrakanong Pumping Station

Before and after their formal talks, Mr. Chadchart guided Ms. Koike through a lush forest park in the city center and the huge Phra Khanong pumping station that controls water levels in Bangkok’s canals and discharges water into the Chao Phraya River.

Both facilities help mitigate fatal floods. The “green infrastructure” built in the Benjakitti Forest Park is designed to absorb rainwater in the event of a downpour. The park’s greenery also helps purify air and water while the city is gripped with chronic air pollution.

Tokyo is operating nearly 30 “underground regulating reservoirs” to contain floodwater. Ms. Koike, once a minister of the environment, told Thai media that her government is considering a massive new project to build an underground channel to divert excessive rainwater into the Bay of Tokyo by connecting additional regulating reservoirs under construction.

“We want to continue sharing the knowledge with Bangkok about anti-flooding measures and climate change that are our common challenges,” she said.

Bangkok tips Tokyo on how to invigorate nightlife

In the evening, Ms. Koike and Mr. Chadchart viewed illuminated historic buildings along the Chao Phraya River, major attractions in Bangkok’s nighttime tourism.

“You can revitalize the economy by making effective use of nighttime. Tokyo has needed to do something about its nightlife that ends too early after the COVID pandemic,” she told reporters after the tour, which she described as “very helpful.”

In the joint communiqué, Ms. Koike offers to share the knowledge necessary for further advancing sustainable tourism. She also proposed boosting cooperation in promoting the tourism industry in the two capital areas. Mr. Chadchart agrees to the idea.

“How Tokyo should restore lively nighttime. Bangkok has given us a great hint,” Ms. Koike told Thai media. The number of foreign tourists visiting Tokyo is estimated to have reached a record 25 million in 2024.

As an example of Tokyo’s own initiative to boost nighttime tourism, the governor cited the nightly projection mapping show, “Tokyo Night & Light,” organized by her administration and related entities. It has already drawn half a million visitors since its launch in late February last year, she said.

In the show, several short audio-visual artworks are projected onto the façade of the landmark 48-floor Tokyo Metropolitan Government No. 1 Building. Guiness World Records has recognized it as the largest permanent architectural projection-mapped display. The works feature popular characters and objects such as the premier movie monster Godzilla, traditional Ukiyo-e paintings and the world-famous J-pop duo YOASOBI.

Developing youth to play an active role on the world stage

Visit to NIST International School
Visit to NIST International School

Ms. Koike spent her last day in Bangkok visiting a top international school and meeting locally based representatives of small and medium enterprises from Tokyo. In the morning at NIST International School, which provides full International Baccalaureate programs and offers foreign language lessons in 12 different languages, the Tokyo governor had a first-hand look at how global talents are nurtured.

“In the sense that we are required to develop human resources capable of competing with their peers in the world’s other megacities,” she said, “I have learned much here today.”

She later met the Bangkok representatives of startups and small- and medium-sized enterprises in Tokyo. Her official program in Bangkok ended when she visited the local offices of the Tokyo SME Support Center and the Tokyo Metropolitan Industrial Technology Research Institute.

It was Ms. Koike’s second official overseas engagement since her re-election to a third term last July. In November she toured Cairo, Abu Dhabi and Baku to cement Tokyo’s ties with the Arab world and present Tokyo’s initiatives at the U.N. COP29 climate conference in the capital of Azerbaijan.

In a wrap-up interview with Thai media, the Tokyo governor promised to continue working hard together with Bangkok to “solve common challenges and improve benefits for residents.”  The Chao Phraya River may be a major tourist attraction but, at the same time, “it supports the livelihood of people and brings a great danger once it overflows,” she said. “This is also the case with Tokyo.” 

Atome partners OceanBase database solution to power secure, high-performance growth

SINGAPORE, March 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — OceanBase, a leading provider of multi-cloud distributed database systems, today announced a collaboration with Atome, Southeast Asia’s largest buy-now-pay-later provider and a comprehensive provider of digital financial services, to enhance its backend infrastructure to drive higher performance, scalability, and security. 

As Atome continues its rapid growth into a leading digital financial services platform across multiple markets, upgrading its backend data infrastructure is critical to supporting millions of transactions per second while ensuring a seamless, secure, and efficient user experience. Integrating OceanBase’s high-performance distributed database solutions will allow Atome to boost business performance while maintaining real-time availability and scalability, financial-grade data compliance and consistence, as well as infrastructure cost efficiency.

“This partnership strengthens our technical foundation to match our rapid business growth. As we scale, it’s crucial to anticipate future business needs and OceanBase’s solutions will allow us to scale efficiently while ensuring consistent delivery of seamless and secure user experiences and services to our customers, merchants and partners,” said Chang Zhao, Chief Technology Officer, Atome.

“As database continues to evolve, OceanBase is dedicated to exploring innovative technologies that can simplify database management for customers across various sectors,” said Charlie Yang, Chief Technology Officer of OceanBase. “Our commitment to innovation aligns perfectly with Atome’s vision. Through this collaboration, we are excited to support Atome in modernizing its database system and enhancing technical capabilities to manage its rapid business growth. Together, we will further explore innovations and best practices in Singapore and across the region to elevate database performance and security standards for the industry.”

As a high-performance, scalable distributed database, OceanBase supports hybrid transaction/analytical processing (HTAP) and offers robust data consistency, high availability, and compatibility with SQL. OceanBase has successfully assisted over 2,000 customers worldwide in upgrading their database systems, operating across 80 availability zones in more than 30 geographic regions worldwide on major global cloud platforms like Amazon Web Services, Google Cloud Platform and Alibaba Cloud. OceanBase was also recognized with an Honorable Mention in the 2024 Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Cloud Database Management Systems.

About Atome

Atome is Southeast Asia’s largest buy now pay later platform and a comprehensive provider of digital financial services. Atome’s market leadership is backed by institutional funding partners including Standard Chartered, HSBC, Bank Jago, DBS Bank, SMBC, BlackRock, Evolution X Capital, InnoVen Capital and many others. Atome Financial is part of Singapore-headquartered Advance Intelligence Group, which is backed by top tier investors SoftBank Vision Fund 2, Warburg Pincus, Northstar, and Singapore-based global investor EDBI.

About OceanBase

OceanBase is a distributed database launched in 2010. OceanBase’s strengths over alternative solutions include strong data consistency, high availability, high performance, cost effectiveness, elastic scalability, and high compatibility with mainstream relational databases. It enables transactions and analytical queries with just one set of data engines, empowering real-time business intelligence.

To learn more, please visit: https://www.oceanbase.com/

DEKRA Successfully Showcases Cutting-Edge Safety and Innovation at ELECRAMA 2025

NEW DELHI, March 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — DEKRA has successfully concluded its participation at ELECRAMA 2025, the premier event organized by the Indian Electrical & Electronics Manufacturers’ Association (IEEMA). Held from February 22nd to 26th, 2025, ELECRAMA brought together global leaders, experts, and innovators in the electrical and electronics industry. DEKRA’s presence attracted significant attention, reinforcing its position as a trusted authority in testing, inspection, and certification.

Throughout the five-day event, DEKRA engaged with industry stakeholders, partners, and customers to showcase its latest advancements in electrical safety, sustainability, and innovation. The company’s key highlights included:

Throughout the five-day event, DEKRA showcased its latest advancements in electrical safety, sustainability, and innovation, reinforcing its role as a trusted partner in ensuring compliance and reliability across industries. DEKRA emphasized its expertise in cybersecurity assessments, industrial inspections, management system audits, and organizational & process safety, helping businesses enhance operational resilience and risk management.

In line with its commitment to supporting India’s growing electrical and electronics sector, DEKRA also announced the upcoming launch of its state-of-the-art product testing laboratory in Pune, which will provide advanced testing, inspection, and certification services to manufacturers looking to meet global quality and safety standards.

DEKRA’s booth became a focal point for discussions on the future of electrical safety and reliability, with numerous industry professionals visiting to explore tailored solutions for their business needs. The event also provided a platform for strategic collaborations, as DEKRA engaged in high-level discussions with industry leaders and regulatory bodies. 

As a global leader in safety and sustainability, DEKRA remains steadfast in its commitment to driving innovation, setting new industry benchmarks, and delivering cutting-edge solutions that ensure a safer, more sustainable, and technologically advanced future for the electrical and electronics industry.

About DEKRA

For 100 years, DEKRA has been a trusted name in safety. Founded in 1925 with the original goal of improving road safety through vehicle inspections, DEKRA has grown to become the world’s largest independent, non-listed expert organization in the field of testing, inspection, and certification. Today, as a global partner, the company supports its customers with comprehensive services and solutions to drive safety and sustainability forward—fully aligned with DEKRA’s anniversary motto, “Securing the Future.” In 2024, DEKRA is expected to generate revenue of 4.3 billion euros. Around 49,000 employees are providing qualified and independent expert services in approximately 60 countries across five continents. DEKRA holds a Platinum rating from EcoVadis, placing it among the top 1% of the world’s most sustainable companies.

TCL Advances Human-Focused Technology with Dynamic Launches at MWC 2025, Featuring the TCL 60 Series, NXTPAPER Tablet, and 5G Connected Devices

BARCELONA, Spain, March 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — TCL, a pioneer in display across feature-rich smartphones, tablets, and connected devices, has showcased its commitment to user-centric innovation by unveiling a comprehensive range of products at MWC 2025. Among the key highlights are the expansion of the TCL 60 Series and the detailed specifications of the TCL NXTPAPER 11 Plus as well as the introduction of advanced 5G connectivity solutions, augmented reality and projector technology. By integrating cutting-edge technology with sustainability, TCL continues to redefine user interaction and connectivity, striving to deliver a seamless and integrated digital experience that inspires greatness and aligns with evolving consumer expectations.


TCL 60 Series: Delivers Enhanced Eye Comfort and Connectivity

The TCL 60 Series is designed to meet the demands of modern users with various lifestyles and preferences, focusing on eye comfort, connectivity, and productivity. Following the launch of TCL 60 XE NXTPAPER 5G at CES 2025 destined to the North American market, the series introduces six new smartphones, including the TCL 60 SE NXTPAPER 5G and TCL 60 NXTPAPER. These models feature the innovative NXTPAPER technology, which maximizes eye comfort by employing hardware-level blue light filtering and anti-glare capabilities, making them ideal for prolonged viewing without causing eye strain.


The TCL 60 SE NXTPAPER 5G is designed to transform the mobile reading experience and includes features such as AI-driven tools for productivity and content creation. Additionally, the TCL 60R 5G and TCL 60 5G as well as the TCL 60 SE and TCL 605, are each designed to support different user requirements with high-performance capabilities and long battery life. These models demonstrate TCL’s dedication to innovation and providing high-quality, durable devices that cater to diverse consumer preferences.

TCL NXTPAPER 11 Plus: Revolutionizing Digital Reading and Writing Experience

Building on its innovative product lineup, TCL introduced the NXTPAPER 11 Plus, marking its entry into the AI-integrated tablet market. Equipped with TCL’s cutting-edge NXTPAPER 4.0 technology and upgraded NXTPAPER Key, the tablet is designed to transform how users interact with digital content. The NXTPAPER 11 Plus introduces advanced Smart Eye Comfort Mode and Personalized Eye Comfort Mode, designed to optimize visual comfort and reduce eye strain through innovative display settings that adapt to various scenarios and individual viewing preferences. This tablet not only enhances clarity and color but also personalizes the viewing experience, making digital interaction more comfortable.


The TCL NXTPAPER 11 Plus enhances user interactivity with advanced input options. The device supports stylus input directly in any text field, offering a more intuitive and natural writing experience. This feature allows for direct hand-writing entry in any text fields, such as search boxes and chat interfaces, providing a convenient and efficient alternative to switching between stylus input and keyboard typing. Alongside these features, the TCL NXTPAPER 11 Plus is equipped with AI-driven productivity tools that enhance communication and content creation. Designed for both professional and personal use, the TCL NXTPAPER 11 Plus combines high performance with elegant design. It features a high-resolution 11.5-inch 2.2K display paired with a super-fast 120Hz refresh rate for crystal-clear and smooth visuals, all within a lightweight, 490g portable frame. This blend of advanced technology and user-centric design establishes a new standard for modern tablets, redefining expectations in the digital landscape.

LINKPORT IK511 and LINKHUB HH516: Leading the Way with 5G RedCap Technology and AI-Enhanced Broadband Solutions

TCL continues to spearhead advancements in 5G broadband technology by leveraging the 5G RedCap technology and pioneering AI-driven solutions: the TCL LINKPORT IK511 5G RedCap USB Dongle and the TCL LINKHUB HH516 5G AI CPE router. The LINKPORT IK511, North America’s only commercially available 5G RedCap device, leads the way in the 5G NR RedCap R17 standard. IK511 delivers speeds up to 220Mbps, weighs only 28.7g, offers plug-and-play ease, and can be compatible with across operating systems, which is ideal for both consumer and industrial M2M applications. Moreover, it incorporates cutting-edge features like 5G network slicing and Ultra-Reliable Low-Latency Communication (URLLC), making it a pivotal player in cost-effective 5G connectivity and suitable for critical applications like emergency response, industrial AR and more.


TCL LINKHUB 5G HH516 combines advanced hardware with AI technology to significantly optimize network performance. The HH516 features end-to-end AI QoS, boosting throughput for critical applications by over 20% and cutting latency in low-latency scenarios by more than 10%. Its innovative AI ECO mode intelligently adjusts power settings based on usage patterns, reducing power consumption by over 10% compared with ECO mode.


TCL plans to expand these AI innovations across a broader spectrum of products, with the goal of building a robust portfolio of intelligent broadband solutions. Our forthcoming Wi-Fi 7 Entry 5G CPE, the TCL LINKHUB HH516L, scheduled for launch in the second half of 2025, will introduce AI capabilities even to entry-level 5G CPEs. Furthermore, our Fiber Home Gateway series will also incorporate AI enhancements in the future, forming a comprehensive suite of AI-powered broadband solutions. This will allow AI to benefit more people and places, inspiring smarter connections.

RayNeo: Innovating Augmented Reality Experiences


Continuing its streak of technological advancements, TCL RayNeo unveiled the latest in augmented reality with the introduction of the RayNeo Air 3s AR glasses. These glasses feature advanced display technology and eye care features and are distinguished by the world’s first dual opposing acoustic chamber design, setting a new standard for portable AR experiences. Additionally, RayNeo highlighted two flagship devices: the X3 Pro, equipped with the world’s smallest light engine for a lightweight, AI-enhanced design, and the V3, featuring a 12MP Sony sensor coupled with a real-time AI assistant. These innovations provide users with unparalleled clarity and seamless interaction.

PlayCube: Unmatched Portability and Performance in Projector Technology


The introduction of the PlayCube marks another significant innovation by TCL, blending practicality with advanced technology in a new projector model. Its unique Magic Cube Design enhances portability and functionality, allowing for easy adjustment of viewing angles and blending seamlessly with any decor. The TCL PlayCube is equipped with a 2.5-hour built-in battery, ideal for both indoor and outdoor entertainment, offering unparalleled flexibility. It features real-time calibration for focus adjustments and keystone correction, ensuring effortless setup and user-friendly operation. Running on Google TV and certified by Google, Netflix, and Prime Video, the PlayCube provides access to extensive streaming resources for a superior viewing experience. This integration of advanced features signifies a major advancement in making sophisticated technology accessible for everyday use.

TCL Mobile co-developed NXTPAPER display with TCL CSOT, a global leader in display technology. By consistently setting new benchmarks in the mobile industry, TCL not only enhances user interactions but also ensures that its products are accessible, powerful, and tailored to meet the diverse needs of its global consumer base. Reinforcing its dedication to human-centered innovation, TCL is committed to integrating the latest technological advancements to enrich daily life. This commitment empowers TCL to deliver smarter, seamless, and more cohesive digital experiences that not only redefine connectivity but also significantly enhance user engagement and satisfaction worldwide.

About TCL Mobile

TCL Mobile specializes in the research, development and manufacturing of smartphones, tablets and connected devices. On a mission to deliver 5G for all, TCL Mobile helps its customers ‘Inspire Greatness’ in their lives through industry leading technology and solutions.

For more information on TCL mobile devices, please visit: https://www.tcl.com/global/en/mobile

About TCL 

TCL Electronics specializes in the research, development and manufacturing of consumer electronics including TVs, mobile phones, audio devices, smart home products and appliances. Combining thoughtful design and innovative technology to inspire greatness, our lineup delivers must-have features and meaningful experiences. As one of the world’s largest consumer electronics brands, our vertically integrated supply chain, and state-of-the-art display panel factory help TCL deliver innovation for all. For more information, please visit: https://www.tcl.com

TCL is a registered trademark of TCL Corporation. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.

Diamond Verification Device, DiamondProof, Lands In Retail Stores For The First Time

The device, developed by De Beers Group, rapidly and reliably distinguishes natural diamonds from non-natural diamonds, such as laboratory-grown diamonds and diamond simulants, helping to underpin consumer confidence

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 March 2025 – De Beers Group announced that its innovative retail-facing diamond verification device, DiamondProof, has landed in select retail stores for the first time, giving consumers the ability to witness just how quickly the device can distinguish natural diamonds from non-natural diamonds, such as laboratory-grown diamonds (LGDs) and diamond simulants, providing a tool for retailers to help educate their customers on the differences between natural diamonds and other products. With research showing that almost half of consumers are unaware that LGDs can be readily detected, this easy-to-use device will enable retailers to show their customers just how quickly natural diamonds can be identified.

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DiamondProof detects unique characteristics found only in natural diamonds, which formed deep within the Earth billions of years ago. In contrast, LGDs are grown under entirely different conditions in an accelerated process which takes just a few weeks. DiamondProof is able to detect the distinct chemical compositions of natural diamonds, which differ from LGDs, allowing for precise identification of natural diamonds.

Early adopters of DiamondProof include some of the largest jewellery retailers in the U.S. The device will also be available in a number of independent retail outlets to ensure this technology reaches consumers in a variety of retail environments.

The first DiamondProof prototype instrument was unveiled at the JCK show in Las Vegas in June 2024 and has been developed to rapidly and easily screen both loose diamonds and those set in jewellery. With a zero percent ‘false positive rate*,’ the device will never mistake a lab-grown diamond as a natural diamond and delivers results within seconds.

Sandrine Conseiller, CEO of De Beers Brands, said: “Natural diamonds and LGDs are two fundamentally different products. Natural diamonds are rare, one-of-a-kind miracles of nature that come to us from the earth through heat, pressure and time. This incredible journey is what makes them the ultimate marker of life’s most profound emotional moments. Consumers should be able to have confidence in such a meaningful purchase, and DiamondProof allows retailers to offer them greater peace of mind. We are in a new era of transparency at retail, and customers deserve to know what they are buying.”

Sarandos Gouvelis, SVP, Pricing, Product and Technology Development at De Beers Group said: “By rapidly and reliably identifying whether a diamond is natural, DiamondProof is instrumental in enhancing consumer confidence in natural diamond purchases. Consumers deserve clarity and having DiamondProof available in retail settings helps them make informed decisions, while appreciating the unique value and story behind each natural diamond. With decades of leadership in synthetic detection technology, we are committed to providing the level of transparency that consumers expect.”

The first batch of DiamondProof devices has been distributed to retailers in the U.S., with after-sales support and servicing available in country. The devices are available for purchase from now, with production scheduled to ramp up to meet the demand of retailers in other markets into next year.

For more information, email dvisales@debeersgroup.com. Information about De Beers’ full suite of diamond verification instruments is available here.

*By leveraging technology similar to that used in De Beers’ SynthDetect instrument, the vast majority of natural diamonds will pass DiamondProof without requiring referral for further testing, with less than 1% needing additional evaluation. This advanced technology also ensures a 0% false positive rate for natural diamonds, guaranteeing that no synthetic diamonds will be mistakenly identified as natural.Hashtag: #DeBeersGroup #Diamondproof #NaturalDiamonds





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

About De Beers Group

Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with diamond mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers Jewellers and Forevermark, and other pioneeringsolutionssuch as diamond sourcingandtraceabilityinitiatives TracrandGemFair.De BeersGroup also provides leadingservicesandtechnology to the diamond industryin the formof education andlaboratory services and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology services. De Beers Group is committed to ‘ a holistic and integrated approach for creating a better future – where safety, human rights and ethical integrity continue to be paramount; where communities thrive and the environment is protected; and where there are equal opportunities for all. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo American plc group. For further information, visit

Further information on the full range of De Beers’ verification instruments is available here –

S Hotels & Resorts achieved a record-breaking revenue of 10,352 million Baht in 2024 with 4Q’24 profit surging by 1.3-fold and proposing a 0.03 baht/share cash dividend

BANGKOK, March 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — S Hotels and Resorts PCL (SET: SHR), the global hospitality company announced its 2024 financial results, revealing a record revenue of 10.352 billion baht, reflecting the ongoing expansion in global tourism demand. Notably, the company’s fourth-quarter net profit surged to 147 million baht, more than double the previous period’s result. This substantial growth was attributed to the accelerated completion of the SAii Laguna Phuket renovation and the robust recovery of its property in the Republic of Mauritius. These results also underscore the company’s enhanced efficiency in financial cost management.

SAii Laguna Phuket -Newly renovated Suite
SAii Laguna Phuket -Newly renovated Suite

During the fourth quarter of 2024, the company recorded revenue of 2,606.7 million baht. This growth was driven by the successful launch of new vacation experiences at SAii Laguna Phuket, which effectively catered to target tourist segments, resulting in a room rate increase exceeding 30%, and the full operational recovery of Outrigger Mauritius Beach Resort. Furthermore, a commitment to improve operating efficiency and cost management, particularly a reduction of over 20% in finance cost compared to the fourth quarter of the preceding year, significantly contributed to a net profit increase exceeding 130% during this period.

SHR’s 2024 revenue reached a record high of 10,352 million baht, representing a 7% YoY increase. This impressive growth was driven by the robust performance of the company’s hotel and resort portfolio, which demonstrated impressive growth across most locations. This success underscores the efficacy of a flexible business strategy, encompassing proactive marketing initiatives to optimize the market mix in the Maldives, alongside the ongoing enhancement of asset quality and service standards under the SAii brand, thereby strengthening core operations. As a result, SHR’s 2024 core operating profit surged 25% to 1,246 million baht, while net profit rose 55% to 134 million baht. In recognition of these strong results, the Board of Directors has resolved to propose a dividend payment of 0.03 baht per share from 2024 earnings, doubling the 2023 payout.

Additionally, in early February 2025, the Company successfully issued debentures in the amount of 1.7 billion baht, further optimizing its finance costs as well as preparing for further business expansion.

Mr. Michael Marshall, Chief Executive Officer of SHR, reported, “The substantial performance growth this quarter reflects the resilience and potential of SHR’s portfolio, and validates the company’s robust business development approach. In addition to the exceptional performance of our Thai properties and Outrigger hotels, we have successfully increased RevPAR at the CROSSROADS Maldives project, amidst heightened competitive pricing in the Maldives. Looking forward to 2025, we aim to complete the renovation plans of three additional hotels in the United Kingdom. This initiative aims to uplift the asset quality, enhance service standards, rebrand and reposition while maintaining stringent cost and expense management, thereby maximising the portfolio’s revenue and profit potential.”

 

J-pop Boyband timelesz Announce New Group Members – The Last Episode of Docuseries “timelesz project -AUDITION-“

Revealing New Faces Now Available on Netflix, New Song “Rock this Party” Drop Worldwide February 28


TOKYO, JAPAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 March 2025 – Tokyo-based J-Pop group timelesz have officially announced their new members at the press conference taken place at the Universal Music Japan office on February 15, after the last episode of docuseries “timelesz project -AUDITION-“ was released on Netflix.

J-pop Boyband timelesz Announce New Group Members
J-pop Boyband timelesz Announce New Group Members

Previously known as Sexy Zone, consisting of Fuma Kikuchi, So Matsushima and Shori Sato, the group changed their name to timelesz (pronounced “timeless”) on April 1, 2024, and at the same time announced their audition process for recruiting new members released as the Netflix docuseries titled “timelesz project -AUDITION-“. The series premiered worldwide in September 2024 and concluded on February 15, 2025, with the last (18th) episode revealing new members.

The announced new members are Takuto Teranishi, Yoshitaka Hara, Masaki Hashimoto, Shuto Inomata, and Taiki Shinozuka rebranding timelesz as an 8-member group. Sho Sakurai of Arashi joined the final round of audition as a special host, which came as a big surprise for timelesz fans who witnessed the candidates’ last challenge.

At the press conference titled “timelesz name succession ceremony”, with excitement Fuma Kikuchi of timelesz noted “From now we call ourselves ‘family’, and our family name is timelesz.” During the conference he also emphasized the importance of having fun for the group to keep thriving for many years to come, sharing his dream of holding a dome tour at the soonest time possible.

A total of 18,922 applications entered to join the first round of audition and of those, about 350 were selected for the second round. Thirty-six contestants moved on to the third round where twenty-one members were eliminated for the 4th round. The 4th round was joined by three new contestants from STARTO ENTERTAINMENT Juniors, and twelve members proceeded to the 5th round. The final round with the last eight candidates took place on February 5,, 2025.

Their brand-new song as the renewed group, “Rock this Party”, known as the song for the last round where three original members and eight contestants performed together, is confirmed for global release on February 28, 2025. Along with the new single, the compilation “Hello! We’re timelesz” including 12 previous tracks including “Anthem”, the theme song for the “timelesz project -AUDITION-“, and the group’s iconic smash-hit song “RUN”, will be available on all streaming platforms.

timelesz also revealed their plans for the first studio album as the renewed group.

Stay tuned for more exciting news from timelesz who just started a new chapter of their journey.

Hashtag: #timelesz

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

ABOUT timelesz:

Debuted as the previous group name Sexy Zone, they released the self-titled debut single “Sexy Zone” on November 16, 2011, which ranked at No. 1 on the Oricon Weekly Ranking. Sexy Zone released a total of 27 singles and 12 albums (including best/anniversary albums and EPs), all of which ranked at No. 1 on the Oricon Weekly Ranking.

Being one of the most influential boybands in Japan, they changed their name to timelesz on April 1, 2024. They released their first EP “timelesz” as the first music under new group name. Their last single with three members “because” was released on November 20, 2024, which also ranked at No. 1 on the Oricon Weekly Ranking.

On September 13, 2024, the Netflix docuseries “timelesz project -AUDITION-“ kicked off, featuring their audition process for recruiting new members. On the first week of release, the program ranked in the TOP 10 series in Japan and it continued to be viral creating a great deal of buzz, ranking in the top 10 of today’s series each time new episode was released.

In the last episode released on February 15, 2025, the new members were finally revealed and timelesz embarked on a new journey as an 8-member group.

Follow timelesz: | | |

TotalEnergies ENEOS celebrates the commissioning of SteelAsia’s first solar rooftop project

MANILA, Philippines, March 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — TotalEnergies ENEOS successfully commissioned a 1.9 megawatt-peak (MWp) solar rooftop photovoltaic (PV) system in collaboration with SteelAsia Manufacturing Corporation (SteelAsia), Philippines’ leading steel firm and one of the largest rebar manufacturers globally.

With over 3,200 solar modules installed, the PV system at SteelAsia’s Meycauayan, Bulacan facility generates around 2,700 megawatt-hours (MWh) of renewable electricity annually. This initiative not only delivers significant cost savings for SteelAsia but also reduces the company’s carbon footprint by approximately 2,300 tons of CO2 emissions each year, equivalent to planting over 34,500 trees.

As part of the 10-year long term solar agreement, TotalEnergies ENEOS fully funded, installed, and will operate the solar system throughout the tenure. SteelAsia will purchase the electricity produced during the 10-year period with no additional upfront costs.

The initiative is part of SteelAsia’ wider decarbonization strategy to integrate renewable energy sources across its operations. Two of its other plants – the Calaca green steel manufacturing plant and the Compostela, Cebu rolling mill – are already powered by geothermal energy.

Image: Andre Sy (right), SteelAsia President was joined by Ingrid Jaumain (left), Zone Director of TotalEnergies ENEOS Renewables Philippines Project Corp during the commissioning ceremony of SteelAsia’s 1.9 MWp solar rooftop photovoltaic system in the company’s Meycauayan steel plant.
Image: Andre Sy (right), SteelAsia President was joined by Ingrid Jaumain (left), Zone Director of TotalEnergies ENEOS Renewables Philippines Project Corp during the commissioning ceremony of SteelAsia’s 1.9 MWp solar rooftop photovoltaic system in the company’s Meycauayan steel plant.

“Sustainability is at the core of our vision for the future of steel manufacturing”, shared Andre Sy, President of SteelAsia. “This solar project with TotalEnergies ENEOS is a crucial step in reducing our environmental impact while ensuring energy sufficiency across our operations.”

“The steel industry is energy intensive, and we understand the need for improved energy efficiency. We are delighted to be SteelAsia’s trusted partner for their first solar rooftop project, supporting them on their decarbonization journey and contributing to the development of sustainable steel industry in the Philippines,” said Ingrid Jaumain, Zone Director of TotalEnergies ENEOS Renewables Philippines Project Corp.

To learn more about TotalEnergies ENEOS tailored solar solutions, check out the free brochure, or contact directly for more information.

About TotalEnergies ENEOS Renewables Distributed Generation Asia Pte. Ltd.

The company is a 50/50 joint venture between TotalEnergies and ENEOS to develop onsite B2B solar distributed generation across Asia. It is headquarterewiderd in Singapore with a plan to develop 2 GW of decentralized solar capacity over the next five years. https://solar.totalenergies.asia

TotalEnergies and renewables electricity

As part of its ambition to get to net zero by 2050, TotalEnergies is building a world class cost-competitive portfolio combining renewables (solar, onshore and offshore wind) and flexible assets (CCGT, storage) to deliver clean firm power to its customers. By the end of 2024, TotalEnergies’ gross renewable electricity generation installed capacity reached over 24 GW. TotalEnergies will continue to expand this business to reach 35 GW in 2025 and more than 100 TWh of net electricity production by 2030. https://renewables.totalenergies.com/en 

ENEOS Corporation and renewables electricity

ENEOS Group operates solar power plants in Japan and is also participating in renewable energy projects in the United States, Australia, Vietnam and Taiwan. Furthermore, ENEOS is actively engaged in power generation projects using biomass, hydroelectric power, wind power, etc. This joint venture is ENEOS’ first overseas renewable energy project using distributed power sources. 

About TotalEnergies

TotalEnergies is a global integrated energy company that produces and markets energies: oil and biofuels, natural gas and green gases, renewables and electricity. Our more than 100,000 employees are committed to provide as many people as possible with energy that is more reliable, more affordable and more sustainable. Active in about 120 countries, TotalEnergies places sustainability at the heart of its strategy, its projects and its operations.

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About ENEOS Corporation

ENEOS Group has developed businesses in the energy and nonferrous metals segments, from upstream to downstream. The Group’s envisioned goals for 2040 are: becoming one of the most prominent and internationally competitive energy and materials company groups in Asia, creating value by transforming our current business structure, and contributing to the development of a low-carbon, recycling-oriented society with the pursuit of carbon-neutral status in its own CO2 emissions. ENEOS Corporation, one of the principal operating companies in the Group, is contributing to achievement of the Group’s envisioned goals through a broad range of energy businesses. 

About SteelAsia

SteelAsia is the county’s flagship steel manufacturer and one of the largest rebar producers in Southeast Asia with four rebar mills across the archipelago and a combined capacity of 2.5 million tons per year. Setting technological and management benchmarks for the industry to follow, SteelAsia introduced to the country state-of-the-art steel rolling mill technology and was the first to regionalize steel supply, dispersing economic activities and job creation with steel facilities in Bulacan, Batangas, Cebu, and Davao City. Recently, SteelAsia became the first Philippine company to export steel bars, and has shipped a total of 87,000 metric tons to Canada as of January 2025.  Today, SteelAsia employs over 3,000 personnel; additionally, an estimated 15,000 jobs are created in support of its plant operations. The company estimates it supplies around 80% of all infrastructure, high-rise and other heavy construction in the country. SteelAsia has become a global benchmark for producing steel with one of the lowest CO2 emissions in the world, putting the Philippines at the forefront of the development of Green Steel internationally. With plans to add new facilities that could reduce 7 million tons of CO2 per year, SteelAsia’s green steel methodology involves a combination of recycling and renewable energy to achieve a staggering 87% reduction in CO2 compared to traditional steelmaking technologies. Find out more in www.steelasia.com 

TotalEnergies ENEOS Contacts
Media Relations: contact.solar.asia@totalenergies.com

SteelAsia Contacts
Media Relations: Tom Tolibas – +639171233128 / pmtolibas@steelasia.com 

Cautionary Note TotalEnergies

The terms “TotalEnergies”, “TotalEnergies company” or “Company” in this document are used to designate TotalEnergies SE and the consolidated entities that are directly or indirectly controlled by TotalEnergies SE. Likewise, the words “we”, “us” and “our” may also be used to refer to these entities or to their employees. The entities in which TotalEnergies SE directly or indirectly owns a shareholding are separate legal entities. This document may contain forward-looking information and statements that are based on a number of economic data and assumptions made in a given economic, competitive and regulatory environment. They may prove to be inaccurate in the future and are subject to a number of risk factors. Neither TotalEnergies SE nor any of its subsidiaries assumes any obligation to update publicly any forward-looking information or statement, objectives or trends contained in this document whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Information concerning risk factors, that may affect TotalEnergies’ financial results or activities is provided in the most recent Registration Document, the French-language version of which is filed by TotalEnergies SE with the French securities regulator Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF), and in the Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Cautionary Note ENEOS Corporation

The terms “ENEOS”, “ENEOS Group” in this document are used to designate ENEOS Corporation and the consolidated entities that are directly or indirectly controlled by ENEOS Corporation. This document contains certain forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from those reflected in any forward-looking statement due to various factors, which include, but are not limited to, the following: (1) macroeconomic conditions and changes in the competitive environment in the energy, resources, and materials industries; (2) the impact of COVID-19 on economic activity; (3) changes in laws and regulations; and (4) risks related to litigation and other legal proceedings.

Steel Asia
Steel Asia