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LAWA 2025 Marks 10th Anniversary with New Awards for Schools, Universities, and Changemakers

PETALING JAYA, Malaysia, June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Talent Corporation Malaysia Berhad (TalentCorp), the strategic think tank under the Ministry of Human Resources (KESUMA), today announced the launch of the LIFE AT WORK Awards 2025 (LAWA 2025), commemorating its 10th anniversary with a renewed commitment to recognise outstanding employers and institutions that champion progressive workplace practices, sustainability, inclusivity, and talent development in Malaysia.

Fireside Chat session entitled “Balancing Productivity in a Tech Driven World” moderated by Datuk Jake Abdullah, TalentCorp 50 Fellow, Thomas Mathew, Group Chief Executive Officer TalentCorp, Adrita Datta, Head of Human Resources Malaysia & Singapore Cluster British American Tobacco and Wai Yu See Toh, Chief Executive Officer, Central Force International.
Fireside Chat session entitled “Balancing Productivity in a Tech Driven World” moderated by Datuk Jake Abdullah, TalentCorp 50 Fellow, Thomas Mathew, Group Chief Executive Officer TalentCorp, Adrita Datta, Head of Human Resources Malaysia & Singapore Cluster British American Tobacco and Wai Yu See Toh, Chief Executive Officer, Central Force International.

Under this year’s theme, “Driving Inclusivity, Powering Sustainability,” LAWA 2025 introduces three new award categories recognising the important role of schools, universities, and changemakers in shaping a future-ready and inclusive workforce.

During her opening remarks, Chairperson of TalentCorp’s Board of Directors, YB Ms Wong Shu Qi, announced the new award categories, “LAWA 2025 aims to drive change by not only recognising sustainability and inclusivity efforts within the industry, but also by extending recognition to schools and universities. To this end, LAWA 2025 introduces two new awards for academic institutions, highlighting their role in shaping students into future talents,” she said.

TalentCorp Group Chief Executive Officer, Mr Thomas Mather, in his welcoming remarks, highlighted that, when LAWA was introduced in 2013, their focus was clear – to support employers in embracing diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) as part of how they evolved.

“At TalentCorp, we encourage firms and organisations to embrace work-life practices in the workplace. By adopting these principles, we believe they can enhance employee well-being, improve work quality, boost productivity, and foster a positive workplace culture that supports diversity and inclusion,” he said.

The LAWA 2025 will recognise employers in the following 13 categories with 33 awards to be given for:

  1. Best Organisation Award
  2. CEO Champion
  3. CHRO Champion
  4. Women At Work & Leadership
  5. Young Graduates
  6. Employee Care & Well-being
  7. Talent Sustainability
  8. Workplace Innovation
  9. Corporate Social Responsibility
  10. Digital & Tech Excellence
  11. Future-Ready University & College (NEW)
  12. Future-Ready School (NEW)
  13. Changemakers: NGO, NPO, MSME & Others (NEW)

LAWA has grown significantly since its inception. In 2024, the awards saw record-breaking participation with over 713 submissions from more than 200 organisations. These submissions represented a diverse range of entities, including public-listed companies (PLCs), multinational corporations (MNCs), small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and public sector organisations. Following a rigorous evaluation process, a total of 38 awards were presented across 14 categories, celebrating excellence and commitment in key areas such as sustainability, inclusivity, and talent development.

Submissions for the LIFE AT WORK Awards 2025 (LAWA 2025) are open to all employers in Malaysia from 20 June to 3 August 2025. Judging will take place throughout August and September 2025, and the winners will be revealed and celebrated at the LAWA 2025 Awards Ceremony in October. 

For more information and to participate in LAWA 2025, visit www.lifeatwork.my 

 

HUDA BEAUTY RECLAIMS FULL OWNERSHIP AS AN INDEPENDENT BEAUTY BRAND

DUBAI, UAE, June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Huda Beauty, the globally renowned beauty brand, proudly announces that it has reclaimed full ownership as an independent brand following the conclusion of its eight-year partnership with TSG Consumer Partners (“TSG Consumer”). In 2017, TSG Consumer acquired a minority stake in the company. Now, in 2025, Huda Kattan, Founder and Co-CEO of Huda Beauty, has officially bought back her equity, regaining full control of the brand.

HUDA BEAUTY RECLAIMS FULL OWNERSHIP AS AN INDEPENDENT BEAUTY BRAND
HUDA BEAUTY RECLAIMS FULL OWNERSHIP AS AN INDEPENDENT BEAUTY BRAND

With this move, Huda Beauty is a fully independent company, becoming one of the rare founder-fully-owned brands in the beauty space. This milestone marks a powerful new chapter for the brand, reinforcing its dedication to innovation, authenticity, and a deeply engaged community, while reaffirming its commitment to a founder-led vision.

Huda Beauty is more than just a makeup brand, it’s a movement rooted in self-expression, empowerment, and authenticity. Built on the belief that ‘Beauty is Self-Made,’ the brand continues to champion individuality with a focus on inspiring and supporting its global community.

“Taking back full ownership of Huda Beauty is a deeply very important moment for me,” said Huda Kattan. “It says that while many of us dreamers have visions that we are told are too big or not possible to do alone, in actuality, you have all the power you need to change the world yourself! This brand was built on passion, creativity, and a desire to challenge the beauty industry. As we step into this new chapter, I’m more committed than ever to pushing boundaries, staying true to our roots, and showing up for our incredible community every step of the way.”

Since its inception, Huda Beauty has revolutionized the beauty space, blending artistry with innovation to create a brand that resonates globally. With Huda Kattan now at the helm as the sole owner, and her husband, Christopher Goncalo, serving alongside her as Co-CEO, and her sister, Alya Kattan leading their Social Strategy, the company looks forward to an exciting future of bold product launches, deeper community engagement, and continued industry disruption.

HUDA BEAUTY RECLAIMS FULL OWNERSHIP AS AN INDEPENDENT BEAUTY BRAND
HUDA BEAUTY RECLAIMS FULL OWNERSHIP AS AN INDEPENDENT BEAUTY BRAND

 

Energize Capital raises $430 million to capitalize and scale digitally-enabled climate solutions

Backed by leading institutional Limited Partners, Ventures Fund III underscores the need for thematically aligned investors in today’s market

CHICAGO, June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Energize Capital, a leading multi-stage investor in climate solutions, today announced the close of its Ventures Fund III (“Ventures III”) totaling $430 million in capital commitments to the fund and its related vehicles. The firm’s fifth institutional fund and third of its Ventures strategy, Ventures III will deploy into earlier-stage companies focused on scaling energy and industrial transformation through digital and software-enabled solutions. This latest raise brings Energize’s total assets under management to over $1.8 billion and will empower the specialist firm to continue leveraging its team’s decades of expertise in climate technology to support entrepreneurs through both financial capital and extensive operational and commercialization support.

Today’s economy is undergoing a profound transformation, placing new demands on capital partners to navigate emerging complexity and create value. Technologies like AI are redefining industrial processes, driving innovation, efficiency, and scalability. At the same time, the reshoring of manufacturing, evolving global supply chains, and the accelerating energy transition are reshaping critical infrastructure. These shifts are creating significant opportunities in areas such as grid interconnection, next-generation manufacturing, and the circular economy—all of which increasingly rely on digital tools to manage complexity and unlock value. With a thesis grounded in digital-first climate solutions and a track record of scaling companies in these evolving sectors, Energize is well-positioned to be a critical partner in this next chapter.

“Now on our third ventures fund, the Energize team has been investing in climate technologies and solutions across several cycles, and we’ve experienced firsthand how this space has evolved in both market size and complexity,” said John Tough, managing partner at Energize Capital. “Today more than ever, operators need specialist investors with deep domain expertise and operational know-how to help them scale their solutions and achieve enduring growth. We are excited to back the next generation of entrepreneurs and are honored to be supported by a group of world-class Limited Partners who align with our mission of investing in climate solutions with ambition.”

Energize’s Ventures Fund III is backed by LPs that represent leading institutional, corporate strategic, family office and impact investors. New LPs in the fund include Första AP-Fonden (AP1), Capricorn, Reference Capital, Keeling Capital, Keysight Technologies, WEX Venture Capital, and several other international pensions. Among returning investors are GE Vernova, CDPQ, Builders Vision, UBS, WEC, and others.

“As an investor committed to accelerating the energy transition, Builders Vision values Energize’s deep industry insights and proven approach to scaling energy transition SaaS businesses,” said Scott Gerdes, director of private investments at Builders Vision. “The close of Ventures Fund III is an opportunity for Energize to further enhance its in-depth research, valuable industry connections, and hands-on team, all of which are crucial for driving broader market adoption. By collaborating with forward-thinking companies and leveraging cutting-edge technology, Energize is fueling growth and contributing to the creation of a cleaner, more resilient energy ecosystem.”1

The fund will back asset-light climate solutions, with a particular focus on companies operating in the industrial digitization, next generation infrastructure and energy transition sectors. To date, Energize has deployed capital from Ventures III into several investments, including Tyba, a battery software optimization platform; Archive, a technology solution for brands to launch and scale profitable resale businesses; and Nira, a software platform that supports grid interconnection for energy developers.

About Energize Capital
Energize Capital is a leading investor in climate solutions. Founded in 2016 and based in Chicago, Energize seeks to scale sustainable innovation by partnering with the builders and operators shaping the future. To date, Energize has funded 36 companies and deployed more than $920 million through its Venture and Endurance strategies. Founded in partnership with Invenergy, the firm is backed by strategic, institutional, and impact LPs including Första AP-Fonden (AP1), GE Vernova, Capricorn, CDPQ, Builders Vision, UBS, WEC, Reference Capital, Keeling Capital, Keysight Technologies, WEX Venture Capital, and more. For more information on Energize, please visit www.energizecap.com.

Media Contact
Robiny Jamerson, Energize Marketing & Communications, rjamerson@energizecap.com 

1 No compensation was provided in exchange for this testimonial

AUTOMOBILI PININFARINA UNVEILS ONE-OF-A-KIND BATTISTA NOVANTACINQUE TO CELEBRATE 95 YEARS OF ICONIC DESIGN

  • Automobili Pininfarina has unveiled the Battista Novantacinque, a bespoke model created as a tribute to the 95th anniversary of Pininfarina SpA
  • The Novantacinque made its public debut at the Museo Nazionale dell’Automobile (MAUTO) in Turin where it was on display from 22-24 May
  • As a singular commission and the final bespoke Battista to be unveiled, the Novantacinque symbolises the crescendo of the hyper GT’s production, which concludes at the end of 2025—securing its place as a future classic and coveted collector’s item
  • The car exemplifies the brand’s philosophy of ‘Dream Cars, Made Real’, combining bespoke craftsmanship, heritage-inspired design, and cutting-edge performance
  • Watch the Battista Novantacinque on the streets of Turin here: youtube.com/watch?v=vo0ffMWG7ko
  • Accompanying assets available to download here

TURIN, Italy, June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Automobili Pininfarina has unveiled a one-of-a-kind hyper GT – the Battista Novantacinque – crafted to commemorate the 95th anniversary of the legendary Italian design house, Pininfarina SpA.

Automobili Pininfarina Novantacinque 1
Automobili Pininfarina Novantacinque 1

This bespoke model was presented at the MAUTO in Turin – the birthplace of Pininfarina and the perfect venue for such an exclusive piece of art – where it was on public display from 22–24 May as part of a special celebratory exhibition.

Created as a celebration of heritage and a symbol of future-facing luxury, the Novantacinque is set to become an enduring icon. Its rarity is underscored by its singular commission and the conclusion of Battista production at the end of this year, with only a limited number ever built. As the final edition, the Novantacinque marks a pivotal milestone in Automobili Pininfarina’s history, exemplifying the brand’s philosophy of ‘Dream Cars, Made Real’—transforming bold visions into automotive masterpieces.

Paolo Dellachà, CEO of Automobili Pininfarina, said: “The Battista Novantacinque represents the pinnacle of bespoke luxury and performance. It is a tribute to Pininfarina’s past, present, and future—a timeless masterpiece created to honour 95 years of design excellence. It is only befitting that the Novantacinque is the final expression of the Battista line. With the window to secure a place in this rare chapter of automotive history drawing to a close, the Novantacinque stands as an icon to be treasured for generations.”

Paying homage to Pininfarina’s design heritage, the Novantacinque is finished in Exposed Signature Carbon Tinted Rosso Gloss—a colour deeply rooted in Italian culture, symbolising passion, speed and emotion. This is complemented by a bespoke livery, featuring PURA Vision Gold Paint Gloss and Nero Torino Gloss accents, highlighted by a distinctive gold pinstripe from the Furiosa Pack. The ‘Novantacinque’ script graces the rear wing, signifying its commemorative status.

The exterior is further elevated by Iconico wheels in Precision Polished Colourless with Black Channel Matt detailing, paired with black brake callipers and brushed aluminium anodised accents that add both depth and contrast to the car’s dynamic silhouette.

Inside, the Battista Novantacinque offers an immersive and luxurious environment. Pilota seats are upholstered in a combination of Black Leather and Black Alcantara, accented by duotone stitching in Black and Gold to echo the car’s exterior livery. The knee pads, finished in Black Alcantara, feature the ’95’ logo in Gold embroidery, while the chassis plate and door plates feature a unique design, reinforcing the vehicle’s celebratory nature. The cabin is adorned with Exposed Signature Carbon Satin and refined aluminium elements anodised in Gold and Black. Newly designed aluminium machined rotary controls provide a tactile and visually striking interface, crafted exclusively for this special edition. Every touchpoint, from the floor mats to the bespoke chassis and door plates, reflects a singular vision of Italian elegance and craftsmanship.

Automobili Pininfarina stands at the vanguard of pure Italian luxury experience, with its bespoke curated approach allowing for precise tailoring to the specific preferences of individual clients. Each vehicle is a unique, hand-crafted masterpiece and a reflection of the client’s personality with inspiration from Automobili Pininfarina’s artisans.

For more information, visit

automobili-pininfarina.com/media-hub

EDITOR’S NOTES

ABOUT AUTOMOBILI PININFARINA

Automobili Pininfarina is based in operational headquarters in Cambiano, Italy, with a commercial office in Munich, Germany, and resourced with a team of experienced automotive executives from luxury and premium car brands. Designed, engineered and produced by hand in Italy, with a focus on designing experiences for the world’s foremost taste makers, all of Automobili Pininfarina’s vehicles embody the PURA design philosophy. This philosophy will also permeate all future production cars, seamlessly blending classic inspiration with cutting-edge technology. 

ABOUT AUTOMOBILI PININFARINA BATTISTA ( LINK TO PRESS KIT )

Battista is the most powerful car ever designed and built in Italy and it delivers a level of performance that is unachievable today in any road-legal sports car featuring internal combustion engine technology. Faster than a current Formula 1 race car in its 0 -100 km/h sub-two second sprint, and with 1,900 hp and 2,340 Nm torque on tap, the Battista combines extreme engineering and technology in a zero emissions package. Battista’s 120 kWh battery provides power to four electric motors – one at each wheel – with a combined WLTP range of up to 476 km (U.S. combined EPA: 300 miles) on a single charge. No more than 150 examples of Battista will be individually hand-crafted at the atelier in Cambiano, Italy.

Automobili Pininfarina Novantacinque 2
Automobili Pininfarina Novantacinque 2
Automobili Pininfarina Novantacinque 3
Automobili Pininfarina Novantacinque 3
Automobili Pininfarina Novantacinque 4
Automobili Pininfarina Novantacinque 4
Automobili Pininfarina Novantacinque 5
Automobili Pininfarina Novantacinque 5
Automobili Pininfarina Novantacinque 6
Automobili Pininfarina Novantacinque 6

Energys Group Secures New Energy Efficient Lighting Contracts Upon Successful Completion of Initial Phase

BILLINGSHURST, UK, June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Energys Group Limited (NASDAQ: ENGS) (“Energys Group” or the “Company“, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group“), a vertically integrated energy efficiency and decarbonisation solutions provider for the built environment, is pleased to announce the award of the second tranche of LED lighting projects from Ark Multi-Academy Trust (“Ark“), an education charity based in London, United Kingdom.

The LED lighting projects involve upgrading existing infrastructure with the latest generation of LED lighting systems and intelligent controls. Upon completion, the projects are expected to deliver annual savings of approximately £1.4 million and reduce carbon emissions by over 900 tonnes annually. To date, the Company has completed Phase I of the projects, valued at £1.2 million. Riding on the successful completion and its proven track record, the Company has secured an additional £1.1 million in contracts which will commence immediately, along with £1.2 million for works scheduled for August 2025. A further £2.0 million later in 2025 is anticipated to finalise the programme, bringing the total value of works to £5.5 million.

Kevin Cox, Chief Executive Officer of Energys Group Limited, commented, “It is a privilege to work with Ark Multi-Academy Trust, which has demonstrated its strong commitment towards education accessibility and sustainability since 2002. We are proud to be part of this transformative programme. The new contracts also highlight our strong relationship with our clients, along with our growing brand profile and track record. Looking ahead, our team will remain committed to advancing the decarbonisation initiatives, with the aim of fostering a greener, more sustainable environment for all.”

About Energys Group
Founded in 1998 as an energy conservation consultancy, Energys Group Limited (NASDAQ: ENGS) has since transitioned into a vertically integrated energy efficiency and decarbonisation solutions provider for the built environment. Serving organisations from both the private and public sectors, including schools, universities, hospitals, and offices primarily in the UK, the Company’s vision is to deliver innovative solutions that reduce carbon emissions, lower costs, and support the Net Zero agenda – alongside improving the wellbeing of building users within the built environment.
For more information: www.energysgroup.com 

About Ark Multi-Academy Trust
Ark is an education charity that exists to make sure that all children, regardless of their background, have access to a great education and real choices in life. There are approximately 30,000 students across the network of 39 schools within the Trust.
For more information: www.arkonline.org

Forward-Looking Statements

All statements other than statements of historical fact in this announcement are forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties and are based on current expectations and projections about future events and financial trends that the Company believes may affect its financial condition, results of operations, business strategy and financial needs. Investors can identify these forward-looking statements by words or phrases such as “may,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “aim,” “estimate,” “intend,” “plan,” “believe,” “potential,” “continue,” “is/are likely to” or other similar expressions. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequent occurring events or circumstances, or changes in its expectations, except as may be required by law. 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 Company’s registration statement and in its other filings with the SEC.

For more information, please contact:
DLK Advisory
Phone: +852-2857-7101
Email: ir@dlkadvisory.com

SHEIN Further Intensifies Product Safety & Quality Protocols, Targets 2.5 Million Tests in 2025

SINGAPORE, June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Global fashion and lifestyle online retailer and marketplace, SHEIN, has rolled out new targets and strengthened initiatives for 2025 to further enhance the company’s product compliance and quality protocols, reinforcing SHEIN’s commitment to product safety and quality and bolstering compliance with statutory obligations in relevant markets.

  • SHEIN has further expanded its product testing regiment, deepening partnerships with 15 internationally-recognized product testing agencies
  • Company estimates that it will spend USD15 Million on compliance initiatives in 2025, including targeting two and a half million product safety and quality tests within the year, a 25% increase compared to the previous year.

SHEIN’s multi-faceted product safety protocol ensures product compliance with applicable laws and regulations, as well as SHEIN’s own standards of product safety that are aligned to regulatory requirements as well as industrial standards, such as US Consumer Product Safety Act (CPSA) and the EU General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR). The system, which spans before, during, and after the sale process, is focused on overseeing product safety and ensuring that products meet compliance requirements.

In 2025, SHEIN will strategically invest, intensify and expand initiatives for increased visibility compliance management:

Standards and Policies

SHEIN vendors, whether they are manufacturing partners or third-party sellers, are required to comply with applicable and relevant product safety laws and regulations, as well as the controls and standards that SHEIN has put in place, such as SHEIN’s Restricted Substances List (RSL), and SHEIN’s codes of conduct for vendors.

The company has always maintained a library of “approved” fabrics that comply with SHEIN’s policies and standards and is available for all SHEIN designers to draw from. SHEIN has since enhanced requirements and expanded its library of approved materials to include trims and accessories that have passed compliance testing for apparel products under SHEIN brands. To qualify and be included in the approved materials library, fabrics and fixings must meet SHEIN’s criteria and comply with chemical safety standards:

  • Fabric Control: High-risk fabrics, such as polyurethane (PU), must pass SHEIN’s Restricted Substances List (RSL) testing before they can be included in the approved materials library. Additionally, as of April 2025, all fabrics that could be used in SHEIN brand children’s apparel must be tested against chemical standards and flammability upon onboarding.
  • Trims and Accessories Controls: In expanding its approved materials library, SHEIN has also implemented an additional compliance tracking system for trims and accessories for finished garments, to further enhance its control over SHEIN-branded apparel from sourcing stage. Any supplier seeking to include their trim or accessory to the approved materials library must submit testing reports that prove compliance to SHEIN’s Restricted Substances List (RSL), as well as other applicable rules.

SHEIN’s dedicated compliance team closely monitors compliance regulations around the world to update and maintain the company’s standards and policies on a regular basis.

Documentation and Certification Review

SHEIN has a stringent policy in place, requiring vendors to submit documentation for products from categories such as electronics, children’s toys, children’s products, baby products, cosmetics, medical devices, light industry products, personal protective equipment (PPE), and textiles with specific regulatory requirements for SHEIN’s system checks and manual reviews.

By May 2025, SHEIN will have implemented additional compliance measures, increasing frequency of checks and verifying test reports, labels and certifications, such as RoHS certification for the EU and FCC certification for the US, for all sellers of high-voltage power electronic products.

Monitoring and Testing

Product safety tests, including chemical tests, are carried out throughout the sales cycle, in collaboration with leading third-party testing agencies.

This year, SHEIN has expanded and deepened its partnerships with 15 internationally-recognized testing agencies, including Bureau Veritas, Intertek, QIMA, SGS, and TÜV SÜD, and targets to increase the total number of safety and quality tests from 2 Million in 2024 to 2.5 Million by the end of 2025.

“SHEIN is a long-term customer of SGS, and we have been working together since 2021 to strengthen the compliance control of SHEIN products,” said Joy Jia, Deputy Director of SGS China E-commerce Team. “Our cooperation with SHEIN has been deepening year by year, covering quality testing of textiles, toys, and accessories. SGS also looks forward to further cooperation with SHEIN in the future, aiming to continuously improve the compliance and quality of SHEIN products in target markets, thereby winning the favour of more consumers.”

As part of SHEIN’s continued efforts for transparency and compliance with local regulatory bodies, the company will proactively initiate reports of any non-compliant products that post significant safety risks to regulatory authorities in markets as required, such as under the US Consumer Product Safety Act (CPSA) and the EU General Product Safety Regulation (GPSR).

Dynamic Evaluations

SHEIN conducts dynamic evaluations of vendors based on multi-dimensional aspects such as the product testing pass rate and negative feedback rate. Once a vendor’s performance is assessed to be non-compliant or in violation of our requirements, SHEIN will take measures against the vendor such as removing the product listing, vendor point deductions, putting in place re-order restrictions, or even termination of the partnership, depending on the severity of the case. Upon learning of any claim against a product, SHEIN immediately removes the product as a precautionary measure while we conduct an investigation.

Since the launch of its marketplace, SHEIN has terminated its engagement with more than 540 sellers who did not meet compliance requirements.

SHEIN takes product safety very seriously and is committed to offering safe and reliable products to our customers, regardless of whether they are SHEIN brand products or products from our third-party sellers on Marketplace.

“Product safety is not an empty promise made to our customers. It is a consistent and sustained effort by SHEIN, as a responsible global company,” said Chris Pan, Global Head of Compliance at SHEIN. “As the breadth and depth of our product offerings grow, SHEIN is invested in building systems and partnerships that enhance the company’s product compliance protocols. It is a challenge, but it is one that we can and will overcome.”

Fake Facebook News Pages in Laos Mimic Real Media to Lure Victims in Online Scams

Fake Facebook news pages in Laos are mimicking real media to run scams, tricking users into sharing personal or banking information.

At first glance, everything looks real, the familiar logo, the breaking news post, the comments from local readers. But behind the page isn’t a newsroom or journalist. It’s a scammer. 

In Laos, a wave of fake Facebook news pages is mimicking trusted media outlets to gain public trust, only to turn that trust into bait for scams. The trend is growing fast, and so is the damage.

One of the most recent examples involves news publication Laopatthana, a recognized name in the Lao media landscape. 

Scammers have duplicated the outlet’s Facebook profile at least a dozen times between February and May, using the same logo, layout, and even reposting real news articles to appear legitimate.

Once a follower base is established, the tone and content of these pages begin to shift. What starts as a stream of actual news morphs into posts advertising discounted electronics, fake giveaways, or “urgent” links designed to trick users into sharing personal or banking information.

Tholakhong Targeted by Multiple Scams

Tholakhong, another widely followed news page on Facebook with over a million followers, albeit unofficial, has also become a frequent target. On June 2, yet another fake page impersonating Tholakhong surfaced, this time operated by someone posing as a representative of the outlet.

The fake admin even listed a working phone number and shared a QR code linked to a Banque Pour Le Commerce Exterieur Lao Public (BCEL) account under a different name, claiming to be collecting donations.

At least three distinct types of fraud operations have been identified, all exploiting the Tholakhong name in different ways.

The first involves a now-deleted fake Facebook page that posed as a legitimate extension of Tholakhong. It regularly advertised consumer goods such as watches, perfumes, and home appliances. 

One reader, according to a contributor to the real Tholakhong page, was tricked into buying a Casio G-Force watch for LAK 400,000. The watch functioned briefly before breaking the next day.

The second scam operated through a Facebook profile called ໂທລະໂຄ່ງ ເພື່ອປະຊາຊົນ (“Tholakhong for the People”), which uses the Tholakhong logo to appear legitimate. 

This account shares politically sensitive content and encourages users to submit news stories for publication, in exchange for money. A QR code for payments is pinned to the timeline, raising concerns about fraud and the misuse of platforms under the guise of citizen journalism.

The third is more direct. A group of scammers has reportedly been cold-calling members of the public, claiming to be from Tholakhong. 

In one case, a caller tried to sell an air-conditioner as part of a supposed promotion. The victim recognized inconsistencies and avoided the scam, but others may not be as fortunate, especially when the scammer speaks persuasively and uses a well-known name, said the Tholakong contributor.

A Growing Pattern of Deception

These fraudulent operations follow a common pattern. Scammers create fake pages that mimic the look and behavior of trusted media outlets. 

At first, they repost real news to build credibility and attract followers. Once enough trust is established, the bait-and-switch begins.

From there, the goal is almost always the same: to collect sensitive information or extract money.

A similar pattern has emerged with Pakaad, where at least five fake versions of the popular Facebook page are currently circulating, according to search results.

In response, the original Pakaad page publicly called out the impersonators, first posting a photo of the fake pages on 24 April, and then reposting the same image on 5 May with a clear message condemning the phonies

In both posts, they included a direct link to their official page to help users avoid confusion.

To further raise awareness, Pakaad issued two warning status updates, one on 28 April and another on 20 May, highlighting the rise in fraudulent advertisements and urging followers to stay vigilant while browsing social media. 

Popular independent media Laopost hasn’t been spared from this trend. 

Between March and May, at least five fake Laopost pages appeared, all mimicking the official branding to advertise low-cost goods such as watches and speakers. 

These pages were eventually taken down.

Even National Institutions Are Being Impersonated

Even Laos’ most trusted national institutions have been targeted. 

ao Airlines, one of the country’s most recognizable brands, recently found itself at the center of a social media scam. 

Impostors used the airline’s logo and branding to promote fake giveaways and discounted flights, mainly distributed through Facebook Messenger and WhatsApp. 

In response, Lao Airlines issued a public warning, urging people not to click on suspicious links or share personal information.

Likewise, Lao Telecommunication Public Company (Lao Telecom) has been impersonated by scammers selling fake products using the company’s images and logos. On 26 May, Lao Telecom issued a notice warning customers to ignore unauthorized ads and to trust only official sources.

These online deceptions are spreading at a time when Laos is experiencing a quick rise in digital connectivity. 

Rapid Connectivity, Slow Digital Awareness

According to the latest Digital 2025: Laos report from DataReportal, the country now has 6.78 million active mobile connections, equal to nearly 87 percent of the population. Internet users total approximately 4.97 million, and social media accounts number around 4.25 million. 

With more than half the population online, scammers have found fertile ground for exploitation, especially in communities where digital literacy has not caught up with rapid technological access.

Also, the rise in scam sophistication has made it harder for even the seasoned users to spot fakes. Some scammers now clone verified pages or hijack old accounts, blurring the line between real and fake. 

Older users, in particular, are at high risk, according to the report. Just one click on a fake giveaway or promo can lead to identity theft or stolen funds.

Authorities and media outlets are beginning to push back. 

Social media pages, both official and unofficial, are sharing posts urging users to verify the authenticity of what they see, to avoid clicking on suspicious links, and to report fake pages directly to Facebook. 

But with Facebook continuing to dominate the news environment in Laos, and new fake pages appearing as quickly as old ones are removed, digital safety remains a growing concern.

 

ADGM Kicks Off 2025 with Strong First Quarter Performance

ABU DHABI, UAE, June 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ADGM, the international financial centre of the UAE capital, has accomplished another quarter of robust growth and increased global recognition, sustaining momentum from a record-breaking 2024.

In Q1 2025, ADGM achieved significant growth across key metrics, supported by ongoing global investor confidence, regulatory enhancements, and the successful implementation of major initiatives within its expanded jurisdiction on Al Reem Island. Meanwhile, ADGM’s focus and strategic initiatives to strengthen ADGM’s standing as a leading international financial centre reaffirmed Abu Dhabi’s position as a global financial powerhouse and a destination of choice for regional and global entities.

Commenting on ADGM’s growth momentum, His Excellency Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of ADGM, said, “ADGM’s Q1 2025 performance marks the beginning of another landmark year.  This is not just a reflection of ADGM’s capabilities to deliver sustained growth, but also the trust it has gained among global and regional institutions, boosting Abu Dhabi’s status as a global financial and innovation hub. As the world’s safest and most dynamic jurisdiction for asset and wealth management, ADGM continues to expand and diversify with purpose, welcoming leading firms, deepening international partnerships, and driving digital and sustainable transformation across sectors. ADGM remains committed to contributing towards capital formation and innovation in alignment with the UAE’s long-term economic vision.”

Diverse Growth Within The ‘Capital of Capital’ 

The asset management sector was a key indicator of ADGM’s growth last year. During Q1 2025, AUMs grew 33% compared to Q1 2024. At the end of Q1 2025, 119 asset and fund managers managed a total of 184 funds out of ADGM.

As the sole jurisdiction in the region to adopt the direct application of English common law, ADGM’s transparency, stability, legal certainty and familiarity with its established regulatory framework have been a key driver to the growing number of global and regional entities setting up. As of Q1 2025, the total number of operational entities in ADGM increased 43% to 2,781, from the same period a year earlier, while the number of financial services entities increased to 367, indicating a 26% growth from Q1 2024.

The number of new licences grew in Q1 2025, representing an increase of 67% from Q1 2024. Notable firms establishing a presence during this period include Skadden, Investindustrial, NewVest, Arcapita, Polen Capital, Seviora, Olive Gaea, TON, and Aquila Group. These firms represent a range of sectors and position ADGM as the preferred premier international hub for asset management, sustainable finance, legal services, and digital innovation.

Strategic Human Capital Growth 

One of ADGM’s strategic focuses under the ‘Capital of Capital’ concept has been human capital. Efforts towards this have resulted in the workforce on Al Maryah Island surging to over 29,000 individuals, a 17% growth compared to the same quarter last year. Furthermore, a total of 3,509 new ADGM work permits have been issued to businesses establishing on Al Reem Island.

In line with its focus on human capital, ADGM also introduced new Employment Regulations, aimed at enhancing workplace protections while preserving business agility.  

ADGM’s Global Outreach and Strategic Engagements

ADGM’s international engagement efforts remained strong throughout Q1 2025, further highlighting its role as a global bridge for the growth of Abu Dhabi’s financial sector.

In January, an ADGM delegation returned to iConnections Global Alts Miami to deepen its relationship with hedge funds, private equity firms, and venture capital leaders. The delegation held bilateral meetings in New York and Washington and participated in a headline panel discussion titled “Abu Dhabi: The Capital of Capital”, showcasing the emirate’s strategic access to USD 1.7 trillion in sovereign wealth capital and its investor-friendly ecosystem.

In February, ADGM participated in the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development’s (ADDED) high-level delegation to China, aimed at deepening bilateral economic ties between the two countries. With the UAE-China trade projected to reach USD 200 billion by 2030, ADGM is reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s position as a vital gateway for Chinese capital into the region.

At the beginning of April, a high-level delegation from ADGM travelled to Japan, where they conducted nearly 30 strategic bilateral meetings with leading financial institutions. The discussions focused on key sectors, including private banking, wealth management, and family businesses, reflecting the commitment of Japanese companies to fostering international partnerships and expanding their footprint in the region.

Al Reem Island Integration 

During Q1 2025, ADGM completed its jurisdictional expansion to Al Reem Island, which delivered strong results. By Q1 2025, over 600 new businesses had set up on Al Reem Island, and more than 500 existing Al Reem-based companies had migrated to an ADGM licence. Currently, a total of 1,100 new entities operate within ADGM’s expanded jurisdiction.

ADGM’s Strategic Moves for Blockchain Innovation and Tokenisation Frameworks

Reinforcing its position as a regulatory pioneer in digital assets, ADGM in March signed an MoU with Chainlink, the industry standard for onchain finance. The partnership will enable the development of compliant tokenisation frameworks by leveraging Chainlink’s infrastructure and expertise.

Additionally, ADGM welcomed Stacks Asia and Bitgrit to its ecosystem in Q1 2025, which will leverage ADGM’s world-leading Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) Foundations framework. These efforts are boosting Abu Dhabi’s profile as a rising blockchain innovation hub at both regional and global levels.

ADGM’s Continued Growth in Sustainable Finance

The Abu Dhabi Sustainable Finance Declaration now boasts 170 signatories, spanning banks, asset managers, investment funds, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Some of the recent names that became signatories include Aquila Capital, Century Financial, Oryx Global Partners, PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) and Olive Gaea.

Driving Innovation Through Technology

ADGM officially launched its all-in-one mobile application to enhance the digital experience for businesses, employees, and residents in Q1 2025. The app offers real-time regulatory updates, compliance tools, licence renewals, and exclusive networking features.

It also introduced a groundbreaking digital platform for real estate transactions, enabling fully virtual sell-and-purchase workflows involving buyers, sellers, and financial institutions—a regional first that reflects ADGM’s commitment to tech-driven transformation.