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Dah Sing Bank and Hong Kong Small and Medium Enterprises Association Join Hands to Support SMEs to Better Understand and Practice ESG

“SME ESG Charter” 2024 enhanced brand image and expanded business opportunities for participating SMEs

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 January 2025 – Close to 90% of small and medium enterprises (“SMEs”) participating in the SME ESG Charter 2024 (“ESG Charter 2024”) have acknowledged that they have benefited from enhanced brand image, reflecting the significance of the ESG Charter 2024 jointly launched by Dah Sing Bank, Limited (“Dah Sing Bank” or “the Bank”) and the Hong Kong Small and Medium Enterprises Association (“HKSMEA”). The Bank and HKSMEA have confirmed to continue their collaboration with the SME ESG Charter 2025 (“ESG Charter 2025”) to encourage more SMEs to improve their environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance and accelerate the transition towards economic sustainability.

HKSMEA surveyed 302 SMEs in December last year on their business challenges and their knowledge and implementation of ESG. The survey results showed that the top challenge faced by SMEs in the past year was rising cost of business (57.7%), followed by increased competition (46.5%), loss of customers (42.3%) and manpower shortages (36.6%). Meanwhile, 77% of SMEs considered ESG practices to be ‘very important’ and ‘important’, while 85.2% of the surveyed companies indicated willingness and interest to participate in the ESG Charter.

Dah Sing Bank launched its partnership with HKSMEA when the ESG Charter 2024 was introduced last year. The initiative was well received with 35 SMEs having participated, of which 26 qualified to receive free independent assessment and certification. The participating SMEs acknowledged that the initiative has helped deepen their understanding of ESG, and that gaining certified in the ESG Charter 2024 not only improved their corporate image but also helped to increase business opportunities.

“Dah Sing Bank has always been committed to supporting SMEs and helping them seek opportunities. Whilst the climate change driven ESG megatrend may seem remote, it is in fact shaping the development of a sustainable economy, presenting both challenges and potential opportunities for companies. We hope to encourage different industries and stakeholders to participate in this megatrend, and to help more SMEs transition towards economic sustainability so that they may progress further with enhanced competitiveness to capture new opportunities. We joined forces with HKSMEA to provide SMEs with hands-on training and support in the ESG Charter 2024. In 2025, we hope to enhance the scope of the ESG Charter to reach out to more local SMEs,” said Ms. Phoebe Wong, Deputy Chief Executive, Senior Executive Director and Group Head of Personal Banking of Dah Sing Bank.

Through the ESG Charter 2024, Dah Sing Bank and HKSMEA provided comprehensive support to SMEs which included publicity, workshops, technical advice, auditing and certification, public education and business liaison. Dah Sing Bank will award SMEs that have successfully qualified for the ESG Charter 2024 an incentive of up to HKD1,400 in account opening fee rebates. The Bank also plans to introduce various product and service incentives in the coming year to encourage customers to implement ESG practices.

Mr. Andrew Kwok, President of HKSMEA, said, “The transition towards economic sustainability is an important global trend. HKSMEA is committed to encouraging more SMEs to participate in the ESG Charter and to achieving our long-term goal of enabling more SMEs to understand the importance of learning and practicing ESG. We support local SMEs to integrate ESG elements into their operating structures and governance mechanisms, and meet the long-term development needs of Mainland China and Hong Kong.”

HKSMEA’s SME survey also showed that 88.9% of SMEs participating in the ESG Charter 2024 acknowledged that their brand image has improved, 72.2% acknowledged funding support for certification and 50% for professional advice.

Furthermore, 62% of SMEs surveyed have started to implement ESG-related initiatives. Among the areas that SMEs have started to implemented, social responsibility ranked highest at 95.5%, followed by environmental protection at 93.2% and corporate governance at 86.4%. Meanwhile, 84.1% of SMEs agreed that good ESG practices can increase customer trust and build a positive brand image, while 54.5% of SMEs believed that implementing ESG practices can help them gain access to large companies’ supplier lists, thereby increasing business opportunities. Similarly, 54.5% of SMEs believed that they can effectively reduce operating costs through savings in electricity, water and waste management costs.

Among the SMEs surveyed, 77% saw adopting ESG practices as “very important” and “important”; 61.5% said it would help to attract investors; 46.2% said it could reduce operating costs through environmental protection measures; 46.2% believed it could increase employees’ sense of belonging and morale; 30.8% said it has improved their own operational management systems, and 30.8% said it could increase customer loyalty and trust.

According to the survey, 85.2% of companies surveyed indicated willingness and interest to participate in the ESG Charter. The key reason for not yet implementing ESG measures was a lack of human resources (48.1%), followed by a lack of financial resources (40.7%). Tight cash flow has prevented SMEs from investing in the necessary resources to implement ESG measures.

The ESG Charter 2024 is a not-for-profit assessment framework that references the sections of the ESG Reporting Guide in Appendix C2 of the HKEX Listing Rules that are applicable to SMEs. Participating SMEs will be assessed by and will receive an assessment report from a third party professional consultancy. SMEs who have successfully attained the ESG Charter 2024 status will be placed in the SME ESG Register by HKSMEA, and will enjoy priority when large corporations supporting the charter consider their products and services.

Hashtag: #DahSingBank

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

About Hong Kong Small and Medium Enterprises Association

Founded in 1996, Hong Kong Small and Medium Enterprises Association was one of the most important SMEs chamber of commerce in Hong Kong. As an non-profit making organization, we have been working for the development of SMEs from manufacturing, food & beverage industry, professional service sectors, marketing and allied industrial / business sectors for almost three decades.

Our main mission is to serve as a bridge of communication between SMEs and HKSAR Government, increasing the competitiveness and productivity of SMEs, assisting them in upgrading, restructuring, entering GBA market and developing globally.

About Dah Sing Bank Limited

Dah Sing Bank, Limited (the “Bank”) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Dah Sing Banking Group (HKG:2356). Founded in Hong Kong over 75 years ago, the Bank has been providing quality banking products and services to its customers with a vision to be “The Local Bank with a Personal Touch”. Over the years, the Bank has been rigorous in delivering on its brand tagline to grow with its customers in Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area and beyond – “Together We Progress and Prosper”. Building on our experience and solid foundation in the industry, our scope of professional services now spans retail banking, private banking, business and commercial banking. Meanwhile, the Bank is also making significant investments in its digital banking capabilities to stay abreast with smart banking developments in Hong Kong and to support financial inclusion at large.

In addition to its Hong Kong banking operations, the Bank has wholly-owned subsidiaries including Dah Sing Bank (China) Limited, Banco Comercial de Macau, S.A., and OK Finance Limited. It is also a strategic shareholder of Bank of Chongqing with a shareholding of about 13%. Dah Sing Bank and its subsidiaries now have 64 operating locations in Hong Kong, Macau and Mainland China.

FEV develops AI-supported driver monitoring system CogniSafe


AACHEN, GERMANY – Newsaktuell – 9 January 2025 – FEV, a leading global innovation driver for the mobility of tomorrow, presents CogniSafe, a state-of-the-art Driver Monitoring System (DMS) that significantly increases road safety. The system uses advanced technologies such as deep learning and computer vision to monitor driver conditions such as distraction, fatigue and inattention in real time and under even the most challenging conditions.

FEV's CogniSafe uses deep learning to monitor driver conditions, thereby increasing road safety.
FEV’s CogniSafe uses deep learning to monitor driver conditions, thereby increasing road safety.

“CogniSafe is a holistic, innovative system that uses a variety of sensors and combines them with artificial intelligence (AI) to precisely analyze driver behavior and alertness”, said Dr. Thomas Hülshorst, Group Vice President Intelligent Mobility & Software at FEV. In (semi-) autonomous vehicles in particular, legal safety requirements are increasing, and the driver must be able to intervene in any situation. “With our latest development, we are actively reducing accidents caused by human error. At over 90 percent, these make up the majority of all accidents,” said Hülshorst.

CogniSafe uses a combination of functions which are unique on the market and coordinate with each other. It uses a network of cameras in the visible light and infrared spectrum to analyze driver behavior from different angles. On this basis, the system continuously tracks the driver’s gaze, analyzes eye condition (percentage of eye closure, PERCLOS) and assesses head posture, providing further information on alertness, fatigue and drowsiness.

AI plays a pivotal role in the functions of FEV’s latest development. Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN) are used to perform precise real-time analyses that dynamically adapt to different drivers and environmental conditions, such as different lighting conditions, and continuously improve.

“The solution is also very interesting for target groups such as fleet operators or insurance companies, who have a strong interest in safe driving practices”, said Hülshorst.

Further information is available at https://shorturl.at/hy3dq

Hashtag: #FEV

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

Top 2 Best Places to Work in Indonesia for 2024 announced


JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 January 2025 – Novo Nordisk and AstraZeneca have been recognized as the top two best places to work in Indonesia for 2024, according to the prestigious Best Places to Work certification program. These companies have been honored for their unwavering commitment to creating employee-centric cultures that prioritize well-being, growth, and development.

Novo Nordisk has secured the top spot for its outstanding dedication to fostering a supportive, people-centric workplace. The global healthcare leader, specializing in diabetes care, hemophilia, and hormone therapy, is celebrated not only for its innovative treatments that improve lives worldwide but also for its exceptional workplace practices. Novo Nordisk has implemented various programs designed to enhance employee engagement, promote wellness, and support work-life balance. With strong leadership and continuous development opportunities, the company continues to set the standard for workplace excellence in Indonesia, empowering employees to thrive both personally and professionally.

AstraZeneca has earned the second position for its commitment to fostering an inclusive, innovative, and employee-focused culture. Known for its medical advancements in oncology, cardiovascular, and respiratory diseases, AstraZeneca also places a strong emphasis on providing a dynamic work environment. The company offers a range of professional development opportunities, encourages a healthy work-life balance, and promotes a collaborative, open, and inclusive culture where employees are empowered to make meaningful contributions. AstraZeneca’s second-place ranking highlights its ongoing efforts to nurture talent, foster creativity, and value the well-being of its people.
Hashtag: #BestPlacesToWork

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

Best Places to Work

Best Places to Work is an internationally recognized program that celebrates organizations committed to advancing workplace excellence and delivering exceptional employee experiences.

For more information, visit:

HKSTP Showcases Innovative Tech in Indonesia

Actively Pursuing Vast Opportunities in GreenTech and AI in Southeast Asia


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 January 2025 – The Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) participated in the “Think Business, Think Hong Kong” promotional event organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council in Jakarta, Indonesia, on 8 January. During the event, HKSTP highlighted innovative green technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) solutions developed by Park companies to an audience of local business leaders, financial institutions, tech companies, SMEs, startups, and academics. The event was graced by the presence of Mr Paul Chan, the HKSAR Financial Secretary, and received an overwhelmingly positive response.

HKSTP participated in the "Think Business, Think Hong Kong" promotional event, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council in Jakarta, Indonesia, to showcase innovative solutions developed by Park companies.
HKSTP participated in the “Think Business, Think Hong Kong” promotional event, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council in Jakarta, Indonesia, to showcase innovative solutions developed by Park companies.

During its visit to Indonesia, the joint delegation from HKSTP, accompanied by representatives from 10 Park companies, showcased their diverse range of business solutions. These included real-time environmental monitoring of water, air, source emissions, and marine environments; AI-driven retail solutions; and 5G cameras with integrated data analysis capabilities, demonstrating the diversity of their business sectors. Furthermore, seven Park companies presented their cutting-edge technologies at the HKSTP Pavilion.

Kevin To, Founder of One Energy (HK) Ltd, a company specialising in electric motorcycles, said, “Indonesia has the highest number of motorcycles in the world. Through this event, our company aims to strengthen communication with local partners and government representatives, gain a deeper understanding of the local market, and establish long-term goals for setting up manufacturing facilities and investing in battery swapping networks.”

Stanley Chow, Co-Founder and COO of Leapstack International Limited, a company that utilises AI and big data technologies to assist insurance companies with claims management and frauds detection, said, “Indonesia has recently undergone rapid economic development, which has generated a substantial demand for medical insurance products. As our company is preparing to expand into the Indonesian market, we aim to use this trip to establish connections with numerous potential partners.”

Indonesia and Hong Kong have long maintained a close economic and trade relationship. In 2023, Hong Kong emerged as Indonesia’s second-largest source of foreign direct investment, after Singapore, with investments amounting to USD 3.769 billion. The Indonesian authorities are proactively promoting the development of finance and AI, which has led to rapid growth in these sectors. Additionally, with plans to relocate the capital to Nusantara by 2028 and transform it into a green and smart city, there is a keen demand for green technologies.

The HKSTP delegation also participated in the trade delegation organised by the Hong Kong Information Technology Joint Council. During their visit to Indonesia, they held meetings with the Indonesian Minister of Investment and representatives from the Ministry of National Development Planning, as well as key local enterprises in the finance and telecommunications sectors. Park companies engaged in business matchmaking with local institutions spanning professional services, information technology, logistics, and manufacturing. These initiatives not only helped the Park companies tap into substantial development opportunities in the Indonesian market but also showcased Hong Kong’s expertise in commercialising scientific research and its strategic role in assisting overseas tech companies to enter markets such as the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, mainland China, and beyond.

Appendix: HKSTP Park Companies Participating in Think Business, Think Hong Kong in Jakarta, Indonesia

Company Name
1. Apicem Technology Services Company Limited*
2. i2Cool Limited
3. Insight Robotics Limited
4. Integrated Solutions Limited
5. Karta-X Technologies Limited*
6. Leapstack International Limited*
7. Lihe Technology (HK) Co., Limited*
8. Neufast Limited*
9. One Energy (HK) Limited*
10. SmartRetail Group Limited*

Remarks: In alphabetical order

*Park companies presented their cutting-edge technologies at the HKSTP Pavilion.

Hashtag: #HKSTP

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

Meta Removes Third-Party AR Filters on its Platforms Starting 14 January

Meta AR Filter (Photo: Meta Spark)

Meta has announced that, starting 14 January, it will discontinue all third-party face filters and Augmented Reality (AR) effects on Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger. This includes AR effects created by both brands and third-party developers. However, AR effects owned by Meta will remain available across its family of apps.

Nearly Three Hundred Families Still Await Compensation for Lao-China Railway Project

Nearly Three Hundred Families Still Await Compensation for Lao-China Railway Project
The Lao-China Railway Luang Prabang station (photo credit: hobomaps)

Nearly 300 families affected by the Lao-China Railway project are still waiting for compensation promised by the government, as ongoing challenges hinder the process. The issue was raised by Minister of Public Works and Transport Ngampasong Muangmani during the 18th Plenary Meeting on 8 January.

Vientiane Authorities Issue New Parking Guidelines for Key Tourist Sites

Vientiane Authorities Issue New Parking Guidelines for Key Tourist Sites
Patuxay Park in Vientiane (photo credit: Mimi Oulayvanh Sisounonth)

Disorganized parking at Patuxay Park in Vientiane continues to raise concerns among residents, prompting the local authorities to take action.

On 8 January, the Vientiane Capital Department of Public Works and Transport, in collaboration with the Vientiane Urban Services Management Office (VUSMO) and the Traffic Police Department, conducted an inspection and issued guidance on proper parking practices.

The inspection revealed that many vehicles, including tourist buses and private cars, continued to be parked chaotically, creating safety hazards and disrupting traffic flow. 

Officials called on drivers to follow parking rules to ensure order in the area.

The new parking guidelines, which apply to key tourist locations such as Patuxay and That Luang, allow tourist buses and vans to park temporarily (3-5 minutes) for passenger pick-up or drop-off. Violators will face fines ranging from  LAK 1 million to 10 million (approximately USD 46 to 460). 

In addition, plans are underway to introduce electric minibuses at That Luang to reduce road vibrations and preserve the site’s foundation.

Looking ahead, The government plans to extend these parking regulations to other major tourist sites, including the Mekong Riverside, Wat Si Muang, and Ho Phrakeo temples, ensuring a safer and more organized experience for visitors.

 

Vientiane’s Top Tourist Sites Attract Over 300,000 Visitors in 2024

Photo of 3 famous tourist sites including That Luang, Hor Pha Keo, and Sisaket temple (Photo: The Laotian Times)

In 2024, more than 300,000 people visited Vientiane’s main tourist attractions, contributing more than LAK 9 billion (over USD 400,000) to the local economy.