SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 August 2024 – Singapore-based fintech ROSHI has published an in-depth analysis of the cost of living in Singapore, including local trends and regional comparisons within Southeast Asia. By examining various economic factors and utilising data from 2024, the report offers valuable insights into the financial landscape facing Singaporeans and regional neighbours.
Key findings from the report include Singapore’s position as the most expensive country in Southeast Asia, with a cost of living index of 85.9. The analysis also highlights significant increases in property and rental costs, with average HDB flat prices reaching $532,768 and private houses averaging $2,080,533. Despite these high costs, the report notes that Singapore maintains a high quality of life, supported by rising incomes and government initiatives.
“Our analysis shows that while Singapore residents face higher living costs, these are often balanced by factors such as higher incomes, excellent infrastructure, and strong government support,” commented Mr. Nada, ROSHI Founder. “Understanding these dynamics is crucial for individuals and families managing their finances in Singapore’s unique economic environment.”
The report also provides comparisons with other Southeast Asian countries, offering context for Singapore’s economic position within the region. ROSHI remains committed to providing transparent, data-driven insights to help individuals navigate the complex financial landscape of Singapore and Southeast Asia.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About ROSHI
ROSHI is a Singapore-based fintech transforming digital lending across Southeast Asia. Since launching its proprietary automated platform in March 2022, ROSHI instantly provides personalised loan options to borrowers by leveraging AI algorithms and machine learning. Currently facilitating home and personal loans through partnerships with various lenders, ROSHI has assisted hundreds of consumers in obtaining loan approvals while providing valuable market insights.
Hosted on Google Cloud Platform, the unified AI-ready data platform will provide Globe with cost-effective, scalable business insights, enabling enhanced customer experience
JERSEY CITY, NJ– ACCESSWIRE – 7 August 2024 –Amdocs (NASDAQ: DOX), a leading provider of software and services to communications and media companies, today announced that Globe, a leading digital solutions provider in the Philippines, has selected Amdocs’ AI and Data Platform for its information data hub. Hosted on Google Cloud, the centralized platform will enable Globe to enhance its operations by embedding data-driven decision-making and providing more personalized customer experience across digital services.
Under the agreement, Globe will leverage Amdocs’ AI and Data Platform to deliver real-time business data in an integrated manner using an industry-standard enterprise data model. This platform will serve as a single source of truth across Globe’s business support systems.
Creating a unified, structured data model will allow Globe to streamline data management, reduce complexity, and lower operational costs while supporting existing and new data consumption needs. This approach will help Globe achieve its mission of creating wonderful customer experiences and addressing customer needs.
Amdocs’ AI and Data Platform leverages Google Cloud’s AI-ready data platform to deliver accurate, real-time data that will enable Globe to drive innovation, efficiency, and improved customer experiences and business operations. Amdocs’ platform also makes use of the Google Cloud Architecture Framework , enabling it to create a layered and service-based architecture that supports a unified, telecom-specific real-time data source capable of integrating information from various systems across the business for enhanced data-driven decision making.
“Partnering with Amdocs to implement their AI and Data Management Platform is a significant step forward for us in our digital transformation journey,” said Raul Macatangay, Globe CIO. “This collaboration will empower us to deliver enhanced, personalized services to our customers while streamlining our operations.”
“We’re pleased to work with Globe and Amdocs to empower businesses to innovate with confidence. By leveraging Google Cloud’s robust infrastructure built on a foundation of security, Amdocs is able to deliver industry-leading solutions that help fuel growth for customers like Globe in a digital economy,” said Malis Selamat, Country Manager, Google Cloud in Philippines and Vietnam and Head of Corporate Sales in Southeast Asia.
“Insights derived from real-time data are essential for service providers to deliver next generation, contextualized experiences for their customers,” said Anthony Goonetilleke, Group President of Technology and Head of Strategy at Amdocs. “We are thrilled to support Globe in its transition to a digital, data-driven organization. Our AI and Data platform, which incorporates a TM Forum-certified leading telecom data model, has excellent analytical capabilities that will provide Globe with operational efficiencies and insights needed to enhance customer experiences and drive revenue growth.”
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Amdocs
Amdocs helps those who build the future to make it amazing. With our market-leading portfolio of software products and services, we unlock our customers’ innovative potential, empowering them to provide next-generation communication and media experiences for both the individual end user and enterprise customers. Our approximately 29,000 employees around the globe are here to accelerate service providers’ migration to the cloud, enable them to differentiate in the 5G era, and digitalize and automate their operations. Listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, Amdocs had revenue of $4.89 billion in fiscal 2023. For more information, visit www.amdocs.com
Amdocs’ Forward-Looking Statement
This press release includes information that constitutes forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements about Amdocs’ growth and business results in future quarters and years. Although we believe the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, we can give no assurance that our expectations will be obtained or that any deviations will not be material. Such statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause future results to differ from those anticipated. These risks include, but are not limited to, the effects of general macro-economic conditions, prevailing level of macroeconomic, business and operational uncertainty, including as a result of geopolitical events and the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the current inflationary environment, and the effects of these conditions on the company’s customers’ businesses and levels of business activity, including the effect of the current economic uncertainty and industry pressure on the spending decisions of the company’s customers, Amdocs’ ability to grow in the business markets that it serves, Amdocs’ ability to successfully integrate acquired businesses, adverse effects of market competition, rapid technological shifts that may render the Company’s products and services obsolete, potential loss of a major customer, our ability to develop long-term relationships with our customers, our ability to successfully and effectively implement artificial intelligence and Generative AI in the company’s offerings and operations and risks associated with operating businesses in the international market. Amdocs may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future; however, Amdocs specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. These and other risks are discussed at greater length in Amdocs’ filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including in our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2023 filed on December 13, 2023 and our Form 6-K furnished for the first quarter of fiscal 2024 on February 20, 2024, and for the second quarter of fiscal 2024 on May 20, 2024.
Amdocs’ next-generation operational support systems (OSS) platform will modernize, unify, orchestrate and automate PLDT’s network operations on the public cloud, empowering PLDT to streamline their end-to-end business processes
JERSEY CITY, NJ – ACCESSWIRE – 7 August 2024–Amdocs (NASDAQ:DOX), a leading provider of software and services to communications and media companies, today announced that PLDT Inc. (PLDT), a leading telecommunications and digital service provider in the Philippines, has selected Amdocs’ next-generation operational support systems (OSS) platform to modernize, unify, orchestrate and automate its network operations on public cloud to drive growth, agility and enhanced customer experience.
Under this agreement Amdocs will deliver its market-leading Intelligent Networking Suite, operating on the public cloud, featuring unified network inventory, service and network orchestration, and business process automation capabilities. The agreement also includes the customer service solution for case management which is part of the Amdocs Customer Engagement Platform, Amdocs’ offering built based on its partnership with Microsoft.
Aligned with PLDT’s cloud-first strategy, the modernization of its architecture ecosystem and network operations will empower PLDT to meet the growing demand for network capacity and business agility as it delivers a seamless customer experience to its end users. The platform will enable a wide range of provisioning changes, capacity planning and fault-resolution services across a single, connected platform, while streamlining the Filipino service provider’s end-to-end business processes.
“We are committed to continuously improving our network through innovation and streamlining our operations to deliver the latest technological advancements and elevated quality of experience to our customers,” said Gilbert O. Gaw, FVP & Head of Information Technology and the Transformation Office at Smart Communications, Inc. (Smart), wireless subsidiary of PLDT. “We are excited to deepen our collaboration with Amdocs as we transform our network operations and deliver customer experiences that set a new standard of excellence.”
“One of the keys to growth for today’s communications service provider is the ability to improve productivity and deliver seamless customer experiences while controlling operating costs. To do so, operators need an agile, flexible, scalable and modern operational ecosystem that offers speed, interactivity and connectivity,” said Anthony Goonetilleke, Group President of Technology and Head of Strategy at Amdocs. “Our OSS suite is a future-ready platform that will help PLDT enhance operational resilience, accelerate automation, and ultimately deliver a fantastic customer experience.”
Supporting Resources
Keep up with Amdocs news by visiting the company’s website
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Amdocs
Amdocs helps those who build the future to make it amazing. With our market-leading portfolio of software products and services, we unlock our customers’ innovative potential, empowering them to provide next-generation communication and media experiences for both the individual end user and enterprise customers. Our approximately 29,000 employees around the globe are here to accelerate service providers’ migration to the cloud, enable them to differentiate in the 5G era, and digitalize and automate their operations. Listed on the NASDAQ Global Select Market, Amdocs had revenue of $4.89 billion in fiscal 2023. For more information, visit www.amdocs.com
Amdocs’ Forward-Looking Statement
This press release includes information that constitutes forward-looking statements made pursuant to the safe harbor provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements about Amdocs’ growth and business results in future quarters and years. Although we believe the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable assumptions, we can give no assurance that our expectations will be obtained or that any deviations will not be material. Such statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause future results to differ from those anticipated. These risks include, but are not limited to, the effects of general macro-economic conditions, prevailing level of macroeconomic, business and operational uncertainty, including as a result of geopolitical events and the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as the current inflationary environment, and the effects of these conditions on the company’s customers’ businesses and levels of business activity, including the effect of the current economic uncertainty and industry pressure on the spending decisions of the company’s customers, Amdocs’ ability to grow in the business markets that it serves, Amdocs’ ability to successfully integrate acquired businesses, adverse effects of market competition, rapid technological shifts that may render the Company’s products and services obsolete, potential loss of a major customer, our ability to develop long-term relationships with our customers, our ability to successfully and effectively implement artificial intelligence and Generative AI in the company’s offerings and operations and risks associated with operating businesses in the international market. Amdocs may elect to update these forward-looking statements at some point in the future; however, Amdocs specifically disclaims any obligation to do so. These and other risks are discussed at greater length in Amdocs’ filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including in our Annual Report on Form 20-F for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2023 filed on December 13, 2023 and our Form 6-K furnished for the first quarter of fiscal 2024 on February 20, 2024, and for the second quarter of fiscal 2024 on May 20, 2024.
Under the name “Last Call for Beauty”, Ocean us is bleaching famous paintings to raise awareness of the extinction of coral reefs in the world’s oceans.
TRIESEN, LIECHTENSTEIN – Newsaktuell – 7 August 2024 – When famous masterpieces of art lose their color, it is a catastrophic loss. A spectacular campaign by the foundation Ocean us is now making this a reality – and the most famous masterpieces in the world’s most prestigious museums are fading. From the Palace of Versailles and the Albertina Museum to the Prado, the Guggenheim, and the National Gallery of Victoria, many major museums are participating. They are raising global awareness about coral bleaching, the alarming loss of coral in the world’s oceans, and the crowdfunding campaign for the Global Coral Restoration project.
Ocean Us_Last Call for Beauty
Without them, our world would be lifeless and gray. Colors represent vitality and are the ultimate means of expression. This is especially true in art: from Monet’s water lilies to Van Gogh’s sunflowers, the iconic masterpieces of art history would be hard to imagine without their characteristic colors.
But this is exactly what renowned museums from around the world are now showing: the joint campaign “Last Call For Beauty” of the international foundation Ocean us shows what happens when works of art gradually lose their color.
The digital process of bleaching symbolizes and draws attention to the dramatic increase in coral bleaching in the world’s oceans, which threatens to destroy this important ecosystem to the point of extinction.
Program for the restoration of coral reefs
The impressive campaign is part of the Global Coral Restoration project of the international foundation Ocean us. Together with the world’s leading marine scientists and experts from other disciplines, the global initiative has developed a concrete plan to rebuild the world’s oceans. The foundation’s first project, Global Coral Restoration, aims to reverse the projected functional extinction of coral reefs. The ambitious goal is to restore nine million square meters of damaged reefs worldwide by 2030.
Linda Neugebauer, founder of Ocean us: „An ocean without functioning coral reefs is unthinkable. They are home to a quarter of all marine species and are essential to the survival of many coastal communities. We now have the opportunity to make a huge collective effort to restore the diversity and richness of the oceans. And to ensure that our world does not continue to lose color, and with it, life.”
“Bleaching Art” is part of a series of creative actions within the “Last Call for Beauty” campaign, developed by Chema Herrera, Creative Director and Head of Marketing and Communications at Ocean us. The campaign will run until December 2024 and is supported by major international institutions and companies.
Chema Herrera, Creative Director of Ocean us, on the campaign he created: “Last Call for Beauty raises the question of how far we are willing to lose beauty. Be it in art, fashion, music, in our lives or on our planet. We all want beauty all the time, in our work, our families, and our vacations. Beauty motivates us to act. And we must act now to avoid losing one of the world’s most beautiful ecosystems. The worst thing we can do is simply accept the loss of beauty in all its dimensions on our planet.”
11 of the world’s most prestigious museums are participating in this impressive campaign with their most emblematic works. These include the Albertina Museum in Vienna with Monet’s „Water Lily Pond”, the Prado in Madrid with El Greco’s famous oil „Portrait of a Nobleman with His Hand on His Chest”, and the National Gallery of Victoria in Melbourne, Australia with Tiepolo’s „Banquet of Cleopatra”. The Munch Museum in Oslo contributes the world-famous „The Scream” by expressionist painter Edvard Munch, while the Palace of Versailles has Nocret’s „The royal family in Olympus”.
“I see many commonalities between the preservation of our environment and that of artistic masterpieces. It’s a shared struggle to look after the treasures we have inherited, whether natural or created, and which allow us to live, and to live with beauty”.Christopher Leribault, President, Palace of Versailles, France
“Humankind and nature are inextricably linked: Nature and animals are among humankind’s earliest subjects; they have been a recurring, inexhaustible motif in art throughout the millennia. And just like our artistic treasures, nature is fragile and in need of special protection: let’s work together to preserve our unique treasures for future generations.” Prof. Dr. Klaus Albrecht Schröder, Director General of ALBERTINA, Vienna
„Today, more than ever, the mission of museums is to impart knowledge and encourage critical thinking. Raising awareness of issues such as sustainability is one of the priorities of the Thysen-Bornemisza Museum’s purpose, and our art collection is an excellent vehicle for developing the many initiatives we have undertaken in this regard. We are very pleased with our collaboration with the foundation Ocean us.” Evelio Acevedo Carrero, Director General, Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, Madrid
“Art is a powerful tool for transformation: not only can it exert a reflection on the ongoing ecological catastrophe, but it is also a valuable instrument for modifying our perception of the link between culture and nature. In its most ephemeral manifestations, art also reminds us of the no less circumstantial character of our presence on Earth.” Andrés Duprat, Director of the National Museum of Fine Arts, Argentina
„Tiepolo’s iconic painting focuses on the love affair between the Roman consul Mark Antony and the Egyptian queen, Cleopatra. The painting recounts the tale of a famous contest whereby Cleopatra wagered she could stage a feast more lavish than the legendary excesses of Mark Antony. Tiepolo shows the dramatic moment when Cleopatra wins the wager with her trump card. Removing one her priceless pearl earrings, she dissolves it in a glass of vinegar and drinks it, causing Mark Antony to lose his bet. In the context of this campaign, we are reminded that together we are wagering the future beauty of coral reefs and other ecosystems – how could we look on passively as they dissolve before our eyes, much like Cleopatra’s precious pearl.” Ewan McEoin, Senior Curator, National Art Gallery Victoria, Australia
Global Crowdfunding Campaign to implement Global Coral Restoration
Ocean us has launched a crowdfunding initiative as part of an international campaign. The foundation’s project aims to raise a total of 40 million euros for the implementation of the Global Coral Restoration Project and has already secured commitments from major companies and institutions. The goal is to implement a concrete plan for global coral restoration on an industrial scale, to be launched later this year.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Ocean us
Ocean usis a global foundation with the ambitious goal of rebuilding the world’s oceans within one generation to secure our sustainable future. It empowers the scientific community and society to lead this planetary repair. As evidenced by its logo, it is born out of radical hope to stop the negative spiral of reduction and set in motion the positive spiral of abundance, focusing on the depleted ocean, as this unique water system sustains all life on Earth.
Ocean usis a charitable foundation headquartered in Liechtenstein. It will also open a branch office in Washington DC (USA) this year and can also be found on the following social channels:
Affordable and comprehensive coverage with Asia and worldwide options tailored for Hong Kong’s young workforce and retirees
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 August 2024 – Bupa Hong Kong, the leading health insurance specialist, is thrilled to announce the launch of the “Bupa Hero VHIS Plan (Core)” (“Hero Core”)and “Bupa Hero VHIS Plan (Core Pro)” (“Hero Core Pro”), expanding its Bupa Hero VHIS Plan portfolio, a certified Flexi Plan under the Government’s Voluntary Health Insurance Scheme (VHIS). Tailored for millennials, Gen Z and retirees, the new plans provide affordable medical insurance with comprehensive and flexible coverage for individuals at various life stages.
Bupa’s new Bupa Hero VHIS Plans empower your health journey
According to the Census and Statistics Department, less than half of Hong Kong’s population is entitled to medical benefits and insurance, with one-third of this group only covered by individually purchased medical insurance. To address this gap and meet diverse health needs at different life stages, the Hero Core and Hero Core Pro offer full coverage[1] for eligible expenses from HK$5 million to HK$10 million per policy year, with low premiums and no lifetime benefit limit. Specifically designed for the young workforce and retirees in Hong Kong, these plans provide ward-level support in Asia, Australia, and New Zealand[2],[3] (Hero Core), and worldwide excluding the United States[3] (Hero Core Pro).
“The introduction of the new Hero Core and Hero Core Pro plans reaffirms Bupa’s commitment in helping people live longer, healthier, and happier lives, and making a better world,” said Yuman Chan, General Manager of Bupa insurance business inHong Kong. “We recognise that each customer has distinct healthcare demands at the start of their careers. Our enhanced VHIS offerings are designed to support the health and wellbeing of the next generation. Bupa Hong Kong continues to leverage our extensive medical network and healthcare expertise to provide comprehensive healthcare solutions that meet evolving consumer needs.”
Since the launch of the Bupa Hero VHIS Series in 2020, Bupa members have valued its high annual benefit limit and diverse healthcare support. The new Hero Core and Hero Core Pro plans empower the young generation entering the workforce to manage their health and wellbeing with peace of mind. Additionally, these plans provide retirees with essential medical coverage, ensuring they can enjoy their golden years with confidence. With guaranteed lifelong renewal[4], the enhanced coverage includes unknown pre-existing conditions, and 24/7 mental health support[5]. Other key features and enhanced benefits of these plans include:
Enhanced cancer treatment benefits: A dedicated nursing team provides insured persons diagnosed with cancer support throughout their cancer treatment journey, with tailored treatment plans, fast-tracked booking, allied health and post-treatment support. Cancer treatment is covered up to the annual limit of HK$5 million per policy year for Hero Core and HK$10 million per policy year for Hero Core Pro, ensuring comprehensive support for insured persons. The deductible (if any) is waived upon a cancer diagnosis (Hero Core Pro only)[6].
Flexible and adaptable coverage changes: Policy holders can lower or remove their deductible or upgrade[7] the level of their plan without undergoing underwriting once they reach a specific age or experience a significant life event[7] such as marriage, childbirth, and migration, providing greater flexibility for budget planning.
Convenient access to diverse healthcare services: In addition to hospitalisation benefits, if the insured persons have not enrolled in Clinical Benefit coverage, Bupa Pass allows them to have access to general and specialist outpatient, traditional Chinese medicine, physiotherapy, vaccination, and health check services at privileged rates. No registration is required for Bupa insured persons to enjoy the services at designated clinic and centres[8] within Hong Kong.
Cashless service: Insured persons can enjoy cashless services at designated private hospitals[9] and Bupa Hero-appointed service providers[10] in Hong Kong, including diagnostic centres, specialist clinics, and more, using their Bupa Hero card. For overseas hospitalisation, insured persons can access this service by calling Bupa to make the necessary arrangements.
The Bupa Hero VHIS Plan now offers six benefit levels: Core (HK$5 million annual limit), Advance (HK$25 million annual limit) and Deluxe (HK$35 million annual limit) with Asia, Australia and New Zealand coverage; and Core Pro (HK$10 million annual limit), Advance Pro (HK$30 million annual limit) and Deluxe Pro (HK$40 million annual limit) with worldwide coverage excluding the United States. Enrol in the Bupa Hero VHIS Plan on or before 30 September 2024 to save up to 80% of the first-year premium over the first three years[11].
For more information or enquiries on the Bupa Hero VHIS Plan, please contact us at:
[1] Please refer to the Summary of Benefits for the items eligible for full cover. Full cover is only applicable to covered expenses and subject to the annual benefit limit, deductible and restricted ward class set out in the Summary of Benefits. Please refer to the Policy for details.
[2] Asia, Australia and New Zealand means Afghanistan, Australia, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, mainland China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Maldives, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, New Zealand, North Korea, Pakistan, the Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Thailand, Timor-Leste, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Vietnam.
[3] For eligible expenses covered under the certified plan but incurred outside your chosen area of cover, benefits shall only be payable according to the VHIS Standard Plan Terms and Benefits. Please refer to the Policy for details.
[4] Bupa guarantees that your cover can be renewed every year for life, as long as you meet the requirements as stated in the renewal provisions of your policy terms and conditions.
[5] The 24-hour Mental Health Service Hotline is applicable to insured persons aged 18 or above. Insured persons aged below 18 must be accompanied by the Policy Holder or guardian to use this service. Terms and conditions apply. Please refer to the Policy for details.
[6] First-dollar coverage – Deductible waived for Cancer are not applicable to Bupa Hero VHIS Plan (Core Pro, Advance, Advance Pro, Deluxe or Deluxe Pro) with zero dollar ($0) Deductible option shown in the Benefit Schedule and Bupa Hero VHIS Plan (Core) (regardless of its Deductible option).
[7] Upgrading of plan level or lowering deductible upon an important life event is exclusive to Bupa Hero VHIS Plan (Core and Core Pro). When an insured person experiences marriage, childbirth, acquisition of individual residential property, job promotion, or migration, they have the option to exercise the one-time right to lower or eliminate deductibles or upgrade their plan level without undergoing re-underwriting. Please refer to the Policy for details.
[8] The designated healthcare service provider reserves the right to amend and/or revise the listings without prior notice. For detailed terms and conditions, please refer to the Bupa Pass leaflet shown in myBupa for details.
[9] Please visit Bupa’s website (www.bupa.com.hk/hero) for the list of designated private hospitals in Hong Kong. This list is subject to change from time to time.
[10] Please log in to Bupa’s customer service portal myBupa to view the latest list of Bupa Hero appointed service providers. This list is subject to change from time to time.
[11] Terms and conditions apply for the promotional offer.
Hashtag: #Bupa #VHIS #HealthInsurance
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Bupa – A health insurance specialist
Bupa is an international healthcare group dedicated to helping people live longer, healthier, happier lives and making a better world for over 70 years. We serve more than 38 million customers worldwide. With no shareholders, we reinvest our profits into enhancing healthcare for the benefit of current and future customers.
Bupa has been a health insurance specialist in Hong Kong since 1976, offering one-stop solutions across domestic and international health insurance, and healthcare services. Our comprehensive medical insurance schemes are tailored to meet individual needs, and we provide health solutions for companies of all sizes. We also have a team of registered nurses, health management professionals, and doctors who provide various expert healthcare support.
Our healthcare provision arm, Quality HealthCare Medical Services (QHMS), became part of Bupa in October 2013. QHMS offers Western Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Diagnostics & Imaging, Dental, Physiotherapy, Mental Health and Wellness services via a network of over 1,650 provider service points in Hong Kong.
Embark on an exciting journey filled with whimsical delights and daring adventures
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 August 2024 – Join us at Pacific Place’s latest pop-up adventure, “The Double Dareground” , running from Today to 31 August 2024. This immersive experience will awaken the adventurous side of guests of any age, featuring interactive installations with exclusive first-in-Hong Kong collaborations, live music performances, and enticing shopping rewards in partnership with American Express. We dare you to play, create and rediscover the joy in everyday moments at “The Double Dareground”!
The Double Dareground
Embark on Daring Adventures Drawing inspiration from childhood dares and the exhilaration of playground challenges, “The Double Dareground” welcomes you to rediscover the bliss of play and bring out your inner child in a stress-free setting full of interactive installations and delightful surprises. Here’s what to expect:
I Dare You to Bust a Move – “DON’T LXXK UP“Photobooth
Stop by the exclusive Pacific Place x “DON’T LXXK UP” photobooth as this South Korean trending sensation makes its first-ever overseas debut in Hong Kong! Strike a pose and capture it in photos taken from a unique high angle. Shoppers can redeem a ticket to this challenge upon registration as an above member and any purchase at Pacific Place*.
*Terms and conditions apply.
I Dare You to Speak Your Heart – Lie Detector
Next up, challenge your partner or friends at the lie detector inspired by the game of “Truth or Dare”. Put them in the hot seat to answer questions related to friendship, love or family. The system will determine whether they sound truthful or not!
I Dare You to Dream Out Loud – Immersive Balloon Room
Dream big at this station, which offers you the chance to roam around a balloon-filled room, designed to symbolise your dreams. Surprise quotes will inspire you to follow your ambitions!
Don’t forget to press the button to create the perfect lighting for a photo op!
The Dareground Shop
Discover a whimsical tuck shop brimming with playful treats at The Dareground Shop. Fluffe, an Australian fairy floss brand, has crafted a limited-edition lineup of imaginative flavours exclusively for this event, from nostalgic “Boy’s Tears” to the indulgent “Birthday Cake” and the mysterious “Cool Kids Privileges”. Grab these exclusive Fluffe collaborations to capture the energy of unfettered fun.
Upon any purchase, you will also receive a complimentary daring note consisting of a simple challenge. We dare you to do it, smiles are guaranteed!
Immersive Balloon Room
Indulge in Exclusive Shopping Perks Designated spending during the “The Double Dareground” promotion period will unlock a trove of exciting rewards, turning every visit to Pacific Place into a doubly rewarding experience. Spend with eligible American Express® Card to receive extra rewards!
Accumulated Same-day Electronic Spending at Pacific Place and Starstreet Precinct
General Rewards*
Eligible American ExpressCardmember Extra Rewards#
HK$3,000 – HK$9,999
Pacific Place x DON’T LXXK UP Photobooth Ticket x 1
HK$100 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$50 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$10,000 – HK$34,999
HK$300 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$100 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$35,000 – HK$99,999
HK$1,200 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$300 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$100,000 or above
HK$1,200 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher + 100,000 above Point Rewards (equivalent to 400 – 1,666 above Dollar. Depending on membership tier)
HK$400 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
Location: Gift Redemption Counter on Level L2 (near Joyce) Opening Hours: 11am – 10pm
*General shoppers and eligible American Express Cardmembers (“Shoppers”) are required to join the Pacific Place Loyalty Programme – above and meet the accumulated same-day spending requirement by electronic payment during the Promotion Period in order to be entitled to redeem Shopping Rewards (“Rewards”). Same-day machine-printed sales receipts and electronic payment transaction slips issued by designated merchants of Pacific Place/ Three Pacific Place/ Starstreet Precinct must be presented at the Gift Redemption Counter (Level L2, near JOYCE) on the same day of purchase to redeem the Rewards. Each receipt must be worth HK$100 or more. Each shopper is entitled to a maximum of ONE redemption of Rewards per day. Rewards are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis while stocks last.
#To enjoy the American Express Offers, Cardmembers must settle the payment in full with Eligible Cards within the Promotion Period. Payment made with the US Dollar Card, American Express Business Travel Account or Corporate Purchasing Card, and Cards bearing the American Express name, brand or logo issued by partners of American Express and all American Express Cards issued outside of Hong Kong are not eligible to enjoy the American Express Offer.
Other terms and conditions apply.
Musical Performances Showcase Diverse Talent This August Embrace a rich array of musical talent with performances taking place throughout August. From a variety of classical and contemporary instrumental music to innovative musical acts, every performance promises a memorable experience for all. Save the dates!
Date
Musical Performances
10 August 2024 (Sat)
Hong Kong Harp Chamber Music
11 August 2024 (Sun)
Hong Kong Flute Academy
17 August 2024 (Sat)
Seed Music Academy Hong Kong
18 August 2024 (Sun)
Jacklyn Chan Music Academy
24 August 2024 (Sat)
HK iMusic Academy
25 August 2024 (Sun)
Baron School Of Music
31 August 2024 (Sat)
Maestro Art Children String Orchestra
Venue: Park Court, Pacific Place Level 1 (near Shiro) Time: 3:00 – 3:30pm
Join us this summer at Pacific Place and unleash your inner child at “The Double Dareground” – where fun knows no bounds and adventure awaits around every corner!
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Pacific Place
Located in the heart of Admiralty, Pacific Place is the destination for exceptional service and unique experiences. As a pioneer of innovative retail concepts in Hong Kong, Pacific Place continues to transform the retail scene by delighting visitors with an array of curated experiences through diversified offerings. Since its inception in 1988, Pacific Place has established itself as Hong Kong’s premier lifestyle hub, a mixed-use development that continues to evolve and grow as the ultimate destination to shop, dine, work, stay, relax and play. It houses one of Hong Kong’s largest collections of luxury brands and diverse dining offerings, making every visit a memorable one. In addition to being a prime transportation hub, Pacific Place is home to five Grade-A office towers, 268 serviced apartments, and four five-star hotels: The Conrad, Island Shangri-La, JW Marriott and The Upper House.
Customer enquiry hotline: (852) 2844 8988 Website: www.pacificplace.com.hk Facebook: @Pacific Place Hong Kong Instagram: @pacificplacehk WeChat: @PacificPlaceHK XiaoHongShu: @Pacific Place HK
Algerian boxer Imane Khelif defeats Thailand’s Janjaem Suwannapheng on 6 August at the Paris Olympics 2024 (photo credit: สำนักข่าวไทย)
Algerian boxer Imane Khelif, at the center of a recent gender controversy, advanced to the women’s welterweight final at the 2024 Paris Olympics after defeating Thailand 5-0 by unanimous decision on 6 August. Khelif’s journey to the final has sparked widespread debate and controversy over her eligibility to compete in the women’s division.
The controversy
The controversy began during Khelif’s match against Italy’s Angela Carini in Paris on 1 August. The bout was abruptly halted after just 46 seconds when Carini withdrew, citing the force of Khelif’s punches. Carini was heard telling her coach, “It’s not right, it’s not right,” and later stated that she had never been hit so hard in her career. This incident led to questions about the legitimacy of Khelif’s participation, with critics pointing to her physical strength as a sign of unfair competition.
Khelif, a silver medallist at the 2022 World Championships, along with Taiwanese boxer Lin Yu-ting, has been under intense scrutiny by the world media. Both athletes were disqualified from the 2023 World Championship after failing gender eligibility tests but were allowed to compete in Paris. This decision led to significant backlash from conservative and anti-LGBTQ+ commentators.
The International Boxing Association’s president, Umar Kremlev, claimed that DNA tests indicated that both athletes have XY chromosomes, though these results were not made public. Despite the controversy, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) affirmed the athletes’ eligibility to compete, citing their birth and upbringing as females.
Despite the distress caused by the controversy, Khelif remained focused on her Olympic journey, publicly sharing her hopes to secure a gold medal as a response to her critics.
Who is Imane Khelif?
Imane Khelif is a 25-year-old boxer from northwestern Algeria. She was one of the first three female Olympic boxers from her country, having first competed in Tokyo three years ago. Khelif boasts a broad amateur record, including a silver medal at the 2022 IBA World Championships, gold medals at the 2022 African Championships, the 2022 Mediterranean Championships, and the 2023 Arab Games. She currently holds a record of 43 wins and nine losses.
The Savannakhet Museum (photo credit: tripadvisor)
To boost tourism, Savannakhet Province’s Department of Information, Culture, and Tourism (DICT) has partnered with APA Incorporate, a multidisciplinary architectural and engineering consultancy firm in Laos, to launch a major museum survey and design project to revitalize the provincial museum.