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BRICS Fashion Summit: What Southeast Asia Can Learn from BRICS Countries’ Emerging Fashion Ecosystem

BRICS Fashion Summit. Moscow. October 2024. (Photo supplied)

The BRICS Fashion Summit, held last October in Moscow, brought together leading figures from Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa to discuss the future of the global fashion industry. The summit focused on several key issues: sustainability, innovation in textile technology, and the rise of locally inspired designs that cater to global tastes. For Southeast Asia, and particularly Laos, this summit provided a timely opportunity to reflect on the region’s growing role in global fashion markets and the lessons that can be drawn from the BRICS countries.

In recent years, the BRICS nations have emerged as major players in the fashion industry, each bringing their various cultural backgrounds and innovation to the global stage. Their growing influence is being driven by a combination of factors, including the rise of sustainable practices, digital fashion, and the development of locally inspired design movements. Southeast Asia, with its expanding fashion industry, is well-positioned to benefit from the insights offered at the BRICS Fashion Summit. 

Embracing Cultural Diversity in Fashion

At the BRICS Fashion Summit, one of the most striking themes was the celebration of cultural diversity. Designers and fashion influencers from the five BRICS nations—Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa—along with over 50 other countries, shared their traditions and design languages, all while embracing the latest global trends.

For Laos, with its rich history of textile production—particularly its traditionally handwoven fabrics like silk and cotton—the summit’s focus on cultural diversity stressed the importance of preserving traditional craftsmanship while also evolving with modern fashion trends. 

Laos, known for its intricate weaving techniques passed down through generations, especially by ethnic groups like the Hmong and Khmu, has a treasure trove of traditional patterns that could shine on the world stage. By reimagining these designs in a contemporary fashion context, Lao textiles could find a place in international collections, showcasing their uniqueness while still connecting to the modern fashion landscape. 

Sustainable Fashion and Eco-Friendly Innovation

Sustainability was another central topic at the BRICS Fashion Summit, with discussions focusing on eco-friendly materials, ethical production, and reducing fashion’s environmental impact. China and India, as major textile manufacturing hubs, have increasingly moved toward integrating sustainable practices in their fashion industries, while Brazil and South Africa have been pioneers in promoting sustainable materials such as organic cotton and recycled fabrics.

For Laos, sustainability is particularly relevant given the country’s growing interest in eco-tourism and natural resource conservation. Lao fashion brands, many of which already emphasize handwoven textiles, have the opportunity to capitalize on the global trend of sustainability by promoting their natural fibers and low-impact production methods. The use of local, organic materials could be a strong selling point for Lao designers who wish to tap into the rising demand for eco-conscious fashion.

Furthermore, the digital transformation of the fashion industry was discussed extensively at the summit. Digital platforms allow brands to reach a global audience without the need for large-scale physical infrastructure. This could be an excellent opportunity for emerging Lao fashion designers to enter international markets, as they can promote their designs through e-commerce platforms, social media, and digital fashion shows. By embracing digital tools, Laos can increase its fashion presence globally, especially among younger, tech-savvy consumers.

Collaborating with Global Markets and Expanding Trade

The BRICS Fashion Summit also touched upon the importance of trade partnerships, particularly in fostering collaboration between emerging markets. As BRICS countries grow their fashion ecosystems, they are increasingly looking to collaborate with smaller markets that have niche expertise. This creates an opportunity for Southeast Asia, to build trade relationships with the BRICS nations and beyond.

Laos, in particular, could benefit from partnerships with BRICS countries in areas such as textile manufacturing, design innovation, and marketing. By establishing connections with Indian and Brazilian manufacturers, for instance, Lao fashion brands could access more efficient production methods or expand their distribution networks. Additionally, Lao designers can seek inspiration from BRICS countries’ design practices and incorporate them into their own collections.

The digital tools and e-commerce platforms that have revolutionized the fashion industry also create more opportunities for smaller markets like Laos to showcase their products. At the summit, there was a strong emphasis on the importance of digital platforms for emerging markets to create visibility and access to global consumers. Laos, with its growing number of young designers and entrepreneurs, can leverage these tools to introduce Lao craftsmanship to international audiences.

The BRICS Fashion Summit offered insights into how emerging markets are shaping the future of the fashion industry. For Southeast Asia, and particularly Laos, the event provided an opportunity to reflect on the region’s potential to carve out a more prominent role in the global fashion landscape. By embracing cultural diversity, promoting sustainability, and exploring trade and collaboration with BRICS nations, Laos can elevate its fashion industry and ensure that its rich textile traditions are preserved while adapting to modern trends.

Development Bank of the Philippines Celebrates Consecutive and Dual Honors at Asia Corporate Excellence and Sustainability (ACES) 2024


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 December 2024 – DBP has once again been recognized as a trailblazer in sustainability with the conferment of two prestigious accolades at the ACES Awards 2024: the Outstanding Leaders in Asia Award and the Green Initiative Award. These honors recognize DBP’s enduring commitment to environmental stewardship, responsible economic growth, and social inclusion—principles that have guided the institution since its founding in 1947.

The Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) shines at the ACES Awards 2024! Receiving the prestigious Green Initiative Award on Day 1, DBP was represented by Michael de Jesus, President and CEO (right center), and Carolyn Olfindo, SVP/Head of the Branch Banking Sector (left center). The award was presented by Dr. Shanggari Balakrishnan, President of the ACES Awards (far left), and Luis Bueno Nieto, Advisor to the ACES Council (far right). Adding to the celebration, Michael de Jesus was honoured on Day 2 with the Outstanding Leaders in Award, in recognition of his exemplary leadership that continues to drive DBP towards sustainable and impactful growth. DBP leading the way in green initiatives and inspiring leadership!
The Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) shines at the ACES Awards 2024! Receiving the prestigious Green Initiative Award on Day 1, DBP was represented by Michael de Jesus, President and CEO (right center), and Carolyn Olfindo, SVP/Head of the Branch Banking Sector (left center). The award was presented by Dr. Shanggari Balakrishnan, President of the ACES Awards (far left), and Luis Bueno Nieto, Advisor to the ACES Council (far right). Adding to the celebration, Michael de Jesus was honoured on Day 2 with the Outstanding Leaders in Award, in recognition of his exemplary leadership that continues to drive DBP towards sustainable and impactful growth. DBP leading the way in green initiatives and inspiring leadership!

Under the leadership of PCEO Michael O. de Jesus, who brings more than 37 years of domestic and international financial experience, DBP solidified its position as a catalyst for sustainable development. With a strong ethical framework, the bank’s commitment to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and good governance has been instrumental in driving national progress.

As a flagship environmental undertaking and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, the DBP Forest Program was launched in 2005. Over 6.6 million trees have been planted across 48 project sites spanning 6,000 hectares in collaboration with local communities, universities, and non-governmental organizations—achieving 85% of the 2030 target. This initiative enhances biodiversity, improves local livelihoods, and contributes to the Philippines’ climate action goals through carbon sequestration.

As a key player in driving the country’s transition to a low-carbon economy, with target of 35% renewable energy in the power mix by 2030, DBP actively channels resources to climate financing and renewable energy projects. Through its pioneering Solar Merchant Power Plant (SMPP) financing program, the bank supports developers supplying clean electricity to the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market. Likewise, DBP’s Assistance for Economic and Social Development (ASENSO) for Local Government Units (LGUs) financing program ensures funding for essential infrastructure and socio-economic development projects, including clean energy solutions to uplift living standards nationwide.

DBP’s holistic approach extends beyond financing to education, exemplified by its Resources for Inclusive and Sustainable Education (RISE) CSR program, which provides scholarships to underprivileged students. This emphasis on human capital development underscores the bank’s conviction that education is integral to lasting social and economic progress.

The recent induction of DBP into the Corporate Governance Scorecard Hall of Fame further validates its adherence to high ethical standards, transparency, and good governance. Bolstered by the Senate’s approval of a new charter increasing its authorized capital, DBP stands well-positioned to broaden its development impact, fostering responsible growth, and resilience for future generations.

Hashtag: #ACESAwards2024 #SustainabilityAward #LeadershipAward #Sustainability #leadership #regionalrecognition #DBP #Philippines #leadershipexcellence #outstandingleadersinasia #greeninitiativeaward

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

About the Development Bank of the Philippines:

DBP is a government financial institution dedicated to fostering national progress through strategic financing and technical support for priority sectors, including infrastructure, the environment, social services, and MSMEs. With a solid foundation and a renewed mandate, DBP is poised to continue its mission of fostering sustainable development and empowering communities across the Philippines.

Management change at X-CAGO: Ingo Kästner takes over the reins


BERLIN/ROERMOND, GERMANY – Newsaktuell – 19 December 2024 – On 1 January, Ingo Kästner, Managing Director of PMG Presse-Monitor, will also take over the management of X-CAGO. The Dutch company is a leading international specialist for data and content conversion in the international publishing industry. The previous Managing Director and founder, Koos Hussem, will be taking his well-deserved retirement at the turn of the year, but will continue to be available to the company with his expertise.

2024-12-19-Ingo-Kaestner-X-CAGO
Ingo Kästner has headed PMG Presse-Monitor since 2019. He played a leading role in initiating the acquisition of X-CAGO in 2021. Since then, he has been responsible for the Dutch company’s business together with Koos Hussem.

Olivera Kipcic, Chairwoman of the PMG shareholders’ meeting and shareholder representative of Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, emphasises:

‘Ingo Kästner is an accomplished manager and expert in digital content marketing. In recent years, he has created new opportunities to successfully market high-quality content digitally. Under his leadership, PMG and X-CAGO have become a strong strategic unit. His takeover of the management is the next logical step in continuing this success story.’

Ingo Kästner bids Koos Hussem farewell with the following words: ‘I would like to thank Koos warmly for the trusting collaboration over the last few years. With his commitment and vision, he has made X-CAGO one of the most sought-after providers of content management and data conversion since it was founded in 2000. It is an honour for me to continue on this successful path.

Together with his first-class team, we will continue to expand X-CAGO’s role as a technical pioneer and offer content producers worldwide perfect solutions for successful digital marketing.’

About PMG Presse-Monitor GmbH & Co. KG and X-CAGO B.V.
With the largest daily updated press database in the German-speaking world, PMG Presse-Monitor GmbH & Co. KG is a leading provider of digital media monitoring, press review creation and media analysis.

PMG markets the content and rights of around 900 newspaper and magazine publishers. Of over 4,000 print and online sources, around 3,000 are available digitally in the PMG press database. The company supplies over 5,000 customers from companies, associations, public institutions, media monitoring services and PR agencies from its base in Berlin.

Founded in 2001, PMG is a joint venture of German newspaper and magazine publishers with the shareholders Axel Springer, Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, Gruner + Jahr, Handelsblatt Media Group, Hubert Burda Media, Spiegel-Verlag, Süddeutsche Zeitung as well as the Bundesverband Digitalpublisher und Zeitungsverleger and the Medienverband der freien Presse.

In 2021, PMG is taking a major step towards becoming a central data hub for content publishers with the acquisition of Dutch data converter X-CAGO B.V. The company is internationally successful in converting and standardising a wide variety of content formats. ArchiveExpress, X-CAGO’s digital archive solution, is used by publishers worldwide as a distribution platform for their content.

Hashtag: #PMG

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

Sansiri, Thailand’s Most Trusted Brand, Launches ‘the Society’: A New Social Space In Cherngtalay-Bang Tao, Phuket, Set To Become A Global Brand


PHUKET, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2024 – Sansiri Public Company Limited, Thailand’s leading property developer with a 40-year track record, is regarded as Thailand’s most trusted fully integrated real estate developer among Thai and international clients. The company has recently garnered a number of prestigious awards, including the top spot among Thai property developers on the inaugural Fortune Southeast Asia 500 list, two Asia-level awards (Best Ultra Luxury Housing / Landed Development (Asia) for BuGaan Pattanakarn and Best Luxury Housing / Landed Development (Asia) for Narasiri Phaholwatcharapol) and an additional 11 honours at the PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards 2024. These include Best Developer in Thailand and Best Developer in Phuket, underscoring its leading position in the real estate sector both in Thailand and across the region.

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Mr. Uthai Uthaisangsuk, President of Sansiri Public Company Limited, reaffirmed the launch of The Society, ‘We are proud to have contributed to Phuket’s development for over 13 years, having successfully completed a portfolio of 27 projects on the island, valued at 26 billion baht. These include notable developments such as Baan Mai Khao Phuket, THE BASE Central Phuket, THE DECK Patong, and Saransiri Koh Kaew. Sansiri plans on continuing its success in the region with the launch of more than 27 Phuket projects over the next five years.’

‘This unwavering trust stems from the company’s high-quality project locations in the island’s choicest areas, alongside comprehensive after-sales services, values that have translated into exceptional returns. We value the potential of Thailand’s recovering tourism sector, especially in Phuket, which is gaining global attention as one of the world’s largest vacation real estate destinations, with an increasing number of foreigners choosing to invest in Thai properties as their second homes. Phuket’s unique indigenous identity, including its cuisine, arts, and culture, serves as powerful magnets for both foreign customers and investors. In addition, Thailand’s visa exemption policy has catalysed unprecedented growth in global tourism, resulting in an “Always High Season” phenomenon for Phuket.’

‘Sansiri developed The Society in the prime Bang Tao-Cherngtalay area to establish it as a global brand at the heart of the exciting developments taking place, enabling visitors to explore all that Phuket and the distinctive Sansiri lifestyle have to offer through new perspectives.’ Mr. Uthai emphasised,

Over four decades, Sansiri has successfully curated exceptional collaborations with the world’s most sought-after international design talents; virtuosos whose masterful touch has graced prestigious private estates and ultra-luxury hotels globally. These visionary collaborations have given rise to extraordinary and bespoke design residences under the Sansiri Luxury Collection portfolio. Each project showcases a rare and highly customised living space, spanning both ultra-luxury flagship and luxury developments across landmark projects in Thailand. These include 98 Wireless, super-luxury flagship condominiums commanding Thailand’s most prestigious resale values, inspired by Ralph Lauren Home with interiors meticulously curated by Anne Carson; KHUN by YOO inspired by Starck, a pioneering Design Branded Residence condominium in the Thong Lo district; and an anthology of extraordinary signature residences presenting the aesthetic vision of world-renowned designers at THE MONUMENT Thong Lo, including Gert Voorjans, the Antwerp-based design virtuoso behind the architectural poetry of Dries Van Noten’s flagship boutiques, and Lorenzo Castillo, the mastermind behind LOEWE’s ethereal retail sanctuaries in Spain, Shanghai, and Hong Kong.

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Sansiri showcases its design prowess at ‘The Society,’ a new, luxurious yet accessible social hub in Phuket. This first-of-its-kind space by Sansiri is designed to foster community bonding and elevate Phuket as a premiere tourist destination. It offers a continuous lineup of lifestyle activities, featuring contributions from top designers and illustrators to create an immersive experience. Open daily, ‘The Society’ serves as a cultural focal point where both Thai and international visitors can engage with local lifestyle through unique, tailored experiences in food, fashion, arts, and sustainability.

Key attractions include the Day-to-Night Eatery with an authentic Spanish menu at VAMOS Spanish Tapas Bar, and specialty coffees from BEANS Coffee Roaster. The venue also provides a co-sharing workspace ideal for private meetings and podcasting, an art exhibition space, and a vibrant calendar of lifestyle events. Additionally, it houses a sales gallery showcasing Sansiri’s developments like CANVAS Cherngtalay, the first condominium in the Cherngtalay zone, and THE TALES, Sansiri’s first Pool Villa Collection in Phuket with ‘THE TALES STORY ONE – BANGJO’.

The world-class architectural design by Ed Tuttle’s team complements the venue’s welcoming atmosphere, similar to visiting a friend’s home. Iconic furniture pieces like the Cocoon by Louis Vuitton from the exclusive Objets Nomades collection and Amanta armchairs by Mario Bellini for C&B Italia from the 1960s enhance the sophisticated setting, making ‘The Society’ a must-visit for those seeking to connect and be inspired. Follow us on IG and Facebook: @thesocietyth, or visit the website www.sansiri.com/thesociety

Hashtag: #sansiri

www.sansiri.com/en

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About Sansiri Public Company Limited

Sansiri, Thailand’s most trusted full-service real estate developers with over 40 years track record is expanding vigorously both in Thailand and international markets emphasizing on design and livability. With a workforce of over 4,000 employees, Sansiri has built more than 400 projects with over 5 million sq.m. throughout Thailand, one residential building in London and one luxury hotel, The Manner, in Soho – New York City. The company also has an affiliated company for property management and sales management services, PLUS Property.

Vietnam pushes for prompt removal of the ‘IUU Yellow Card’

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2024 – Vietnam continues its robust efforts to implement the European Commission’s (EC) recommendations for combating illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, with a commitment to securing the removal of the ‘IUU yellow card’ in the coming months.

Following the EC’s fourth inspection in October 2023, the government of Vietnam has maintained close oversight in addressing IUU fishing practices. The Secretariat issued a directive to strengthen Party leadership in combating IUU fishing and fostering sustainable fisheries development on April 10 2024.

The government of Vietnam has instructed ministries, agencies and localities to focus on rectifying shortcomings in the management of fishing vessels and cracking down on IUU violations, including VMS disconnection and illegal fishing in foreign waters.

It has also introduced revised decrees to regulate seafood imports from container vessels, impose stricter penalties for fishing beyond designated zones and deploy six means and technical techniques for administrative enforcement in the fisheries sector.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Vietnam has amended regulations to address no registrations, no checks, no licenses fishing vessels. On June 12 2024, the Supreme People’s Court issued a resolution guiding the application of specific Criminal Code provisions to penalise those facilitating illegal fishing in foreign waters.

Vietnam has identified and documented its nationwide fishing fleet, totalling 84,752 vessels, of which 77,717 are registered. Among 15 metres or longer vessels, 98.62 per cent have installed vessel monitoring systems (VMS) and 98 per cent have been marked for compliance.

The offshore fishing license quota for 2024–2029 has been announced, with 29,552 permits issued. Local authorities have compiled and managed lists of high-risk vessels, ensuring rigorous monitoring through vessel monitoring systems, port entries, and dock operations.

Specialised agencies have also tightened regulations on seafood traceability. For domestically harvested seafood, authorities have implemented and required localities to report and update the daily output of aquatic products unloaded at fishing ports via Google Sheets for monitoring.

An electronic traceability system (eCDT) has been established to ensure transparency and legality in certifying, verifying and tracking the origins of seafood exports. As of now, 80 fishing ports and landing points have adopted these measures.

For imported seafood, new regulations have been rolled out to control products brought into Vietnam via container vessels in accordance with Article 70a and updates under the Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA). To date, the EC has recognised Vietnam’s progress in enforcing regulations to monitor imported seafood, highlighting full compliance with PSMA requirements.

Moreover, Vietnamese authorities have intensified law enforcement efforts to address IUU fishing, yielding significant outcomes. 12 criminal cases were prosecuted, involving falsification of documents, manipulation of VMS, illegal departures and brokering activities that facilitated the deployment of fishing vessels for illegal operations in foreign waters.

Additionally, 4,237 administrative violations in the fisheries sector have been penalised, amounting to over VND109 billion in fines. Of which, since the beginning of this year, authorities have handled 3,387 administrative violations, imposing fines exceeding VND75 billion, an increase of about 30 per cent year-on-year.

Violations related to VMS alone accounted for fines of over VND38 billion, while 21 cases of illegal fishing in foreign waters resulted in fines totalling VND23 billion.

Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development, Le Minh Hoan, emphasised to the European Commission (EC) that combating IUU fishing remains a core priority for Vietnam’s fisheries sector. It is not solely aimed at ensuring compliance for seafood exports to the European Union but also serves to promote sustainable aquaculture and fisheries, reflecting Vietnam’s responsibility and maintaining its global reputation.

Vietnam also considers the issue of ‘yellow card’ as an opportunity to foster more sustainable fishing practices. Through its ongoing efforts, the country is optimistic about the EC’s timely removal of the ‘yellow card’ warning.

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

Top 50 Best Places to Work in the Middle East for 2024


DUBAI, UAE – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2024 – The Best Places to Work organization has officially announced the Top 50 Best Places to Work in the Middle East for 2024, showcasing the companies that lead the way in employee satisfaction, engagement, and workplace culture. This year’s rankings highlight organizations that have demonstrated exceptional commitment to creating positive work environments, fostering employee growth, and embracing innovative people practices.

Leading the 2024 list is Eand, a global telecommunications leader, committed to innovation and delivering cutting-edge technology solutions to millions of customers worldwide. Following closely behind are AstraZeneca, Roshn, and First Milling Company, all of which have made remarkable strides in employee engagement and corporate culture. The list also features a diverse array of organizations from various industries, all united by a shared commitment to creating meaningful and motivating workplaces.

The Best Places to Work certification recognizes the highest performing employers based on a comprehensive assessment of their HR practices and employee experience. This year, over 500 companies from across the region were evaluated on key topics such as leadership effectiveness, people strategy, employee engagement, corporate social responsibility, and work-life balance.

The Top 50 Best Places to Work in the Middle East for 2024 include:

  1. Eand
  2. AstraZeneca
  3. Roshn
  4. First Milling Company
  5. Novo Nordisk
  6. Alnahdi Office
  7. Novartis
  8. Royal Commission for AlUla
  9. Pfizer
  10. Al Ramz
  11. Matarat Holding
  12. BSH
  13. BAT
  14. Schneider Electric
  15. Viatris
  16. Saudi Xerox
  17. International Maritime Industries
  18. Falak Investment Hub
  19. AXS
  20. Pickalbatros Hotels & Resorts
  21. JTI
  22. Jordan Ahli Bank
  23. Acino
  24. Magrabi
  25. TAQA Water Solutions
  26. Estarta
  27. Al Rugaib Holding
  28. Islamic Development Bank
  29. Bidaya Finance
  30. UTEC
  31. Alsagr
  32. Abdullah Hashim
  33. Remat
  34. Saudia Cargo
  35. Money For Finance
  36. Rewaa
  37. Bank Muscat
  38. Emkan Education
  39. Apcofs
  40. RIYAD STEEL
  41. Jahez
  42. Panda
  43. Saudi Air Navigation Services
  44. Extra
  45. Albir
  46. Madar
  47. Jana MS
  48. Sfana
  49. Backyardex
  50. Bindawood

Insights from this year’s program highlight successful organizations prioritizing well-being, flexibility, and equity, standing out in 2024 for navigating challenges while maintaining high employee engagement.

Best Places to Work, a global certification program, recognizes companies excelling in workplace culture and employee experience, providing insights to enhance HR practices and drive success.

Partnering with over 500 companies in the Middle East, it helps organizations optimize people strategies and foster thriving workplaces.

For more information, please visit the program website: www.bestplacestoworkfor.org.
Hashtag: #BestPlacesToWork

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

Commerce Dot Com Wraps Up a Momentous 25th Anniversary Year with the Prestigious Digitech Best Brands Award 2024


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2024 – Commerce Dot Com (CDC) concludes its milestone 25th anniversary year on a high note by receiving the esteemed Digitech BestBrands Award 2024 – Visionary Tech. The recognition as a Visionary Tech leader underscores CDC’s pivotal role in shaping the landscape of procurement through cutting-edge technology and transformative solutions.

Datuk Muzafar receiving the Brandlaureate Digitech BestBrands Award 2024 – Visionary Tech.
Datuk Muzafar receiving the Brandlaureate Digitech BestBrands Award 2024 – Visionary Tech.

CDC’s Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Muzafar Kamal Shahaluddin, expressed his gratitude for this accolade, “This award is a fitting conclusion to an extraordinary year for CDC. Celebrating our 25th anniversary with such recognition is a testament to the visionary leadership and relentless efforts of our team. Over the years, we have embraced innovation to address the evolving needs of procurement, and this award reinforces our commitment to staying ahead in the digital transformation journey.”

Over the past 25 years, CDC has introduced innovative systems and set new standards, driving efficiency and transparency in procurement processes. This year alone, CDC launched several initiatives, including Strong Ethics Nurture Integrity, a campaign that underscores CDC’s unwavering commitment to ethical practices and integrity in all its operations.

As CDC commemorates its 25th anniversary, the Digitech BestBrands Award 2024 serves as a fitting tribute to its enduring legacy. This achievement is a celebration of past successes and a beacon for future aspirations. Datuk Muzafar Kamal Shahaluddin further noted that, “This recognition is a culmination of our 25-year journey. It celebrates not only the milestones we’ve achieved but also the team’s shared vision and dedication to innovation and excellence. It’s a proud moment for all of us at CDC.”

Throughout the year, CDC has engaged in numerous activities that exemplify its commitment to innovation and excellence. These include participation in industry forums to share insights and collaborative projects with partners to advance digital transformation goals.

This award highlights CDC’s mission to continually set new standards in procurement while aligning with its core values of innovation, integrity, and progress. It reflects CDC’s unwavering commitment to delivering solutions that contribute to sustainable and inclusive growth. As the procurement sector evolves, CDC remains dedicated to embracing emerging technologies and addressing the challenges of a dynamic marketplace.

Hashtag: #commercedotcom #eprocurement #procurement #branding #brandlaureate




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

About Commerce Dot Com Sdn Bhd

Established in 1999 as a procurement solutions provider, Commerce Dot Com Sdn. Bhd. (CDC) is a government-linked company under the Ministry of Finance whereby the ministry’s corporate arm, Ministry of Finance (Incorporated), holds a golden share in the company. With over 20 years of experience under its belt, CDC has established itself as among the leading procurement solutions providers in Malaysia and has a well-earned reputation for providing exceptional services through its innovative solutions.

Phu Quoc welcomes the world’s most prestigious resort brands


PHU QUOC, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2024 – Phu Quoc is rapidly solidifying its position as a new luxury resort paradise in the world, with the arrival of renowned hospitality brands, including Rixos, Ritz-Carlton Reserve and The Luxury Collection in the near future.

This December represents a pivotal moment for Phu Quoc and Vietnam, with two events being hailed as ‘historic milestones’ for the country’s high-end resort tourism sector.

Sun Group broke ground on the Aspira Tower project in Hon Thom island.
Sun Group broke ground on the Aspira Tower project in Hon Thom island.

On December 5, Sun Group signed an agreement with Accor & Ennismore to bring the world-renowned Rixos brand to Hon Thom, Phu Quoc. Once launched, Rixos Phu Quoc will become the first all-inclusive luxury resort in Southeast Asia.

It allows guests to enjoy a wide range of personalised services, amenities, entertainment and relaxation at the highest level. With a one-time package price, guests can fully explore the Sun Paradise Land ecosystem in Phu Quoc, including visiting Sunset Town, riding the world’s longest three-rope cable car and admiring world-class art performances.

On December 10, Sun Group officially broke ground on the Aspira Tower project, which has a total investment of US$512 million (VND13 trillion). The tower’s base, featuring undulating architectural layers, will include multi-functional spaces, including a gaming centre with a separate entrance, outdoor dining areas, infinity pools and Jacuzzis.

Slated to debut in 2027, the tower will host a hotel under The Luxury Collection brand by Marriott International and the Sun Iconic Hub complex with top-tier amenities.

Praised by experts as an ‘unprecedented design,’ the structure is expected to become the ‘second sail-shaped tower of the world,’ attracting millions of visitors to Vietnam annually, much like the iconic Burj Al Arab in Dubai, UAE.

Beyond Rixos Phu Quoc and The Luxury Collection, the global elite also focus on the Ritz-Carlton Reserve resort, designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley on Hon Thom island. At the end of 2023, Sun Group signed with Marriott International for operation and management cooperation on this project.

World-class art performances and fireworks 365 day a year in the Sun Paradise Land in Phu Quoc.
World-class art performances and fireworks 365 day a year in the Sun Paradise Land in Phu Quoc.

The potential of a ‘prominent hub in Asia’

Before the arrival of new luxury brands, Phu Quoc had already made its mark on the international tourism map with its iconic collection of resorts frequently honoured worldwide. These include the masterpiece JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, themed around an unprecedented university concept, and La Festa Phu Quoc, the first hotel in Hilton’s Curio Collection in Southeast Asia, featuring balconies offering direct views of year-round firework displays.

Notably, the Sun Paradise Land ecosystem in Phu Quoc has continuously been enriched with new experiences over the past two years, becoming the ‘trump card’ that has drawn the attention of global hospitality giants.

This year, Phu Quoc welcomed about 6 million visitors, including nearly 1 million international arrivals, surpassing 92 per cent of the annual plan and achieving a 70 per cent year-on-year increase.

The influx of top-tier hospitality brands is expected to boost direct flight routes to Phu Quoc. Rixos, a brand originating in Turkey and thriving in the Middle East, is expected to help Pearl Island welcome new routes from the UAE, Qatar or Oman – one of the busiest transit hubs. Meanwhile, brands like The Luxury Collection and Ritz Carlton Reserve will attract ‘super luxury’ individuals, business moguls and billionaires.

Mehmet Kin, Vice President of Crystal Bay Group, said: “Thailand with Phuket and Pattaya used to be very famous destinations, but in my opinion, Phu Quoc is much better because the infrastructure is ready, the facilities are new, the services are superior and especially, the people always smile. That is very important.”

According to many leading global travel businesses, with the potential Phu Quoc currently holds, this island should be compared to world-class tourism icons like Hawaii or the Maldives.

“When infrastructure, including roads and tourist attractions, are fully developed, we will witness the emergence of the ‘Hawaii of the East,'” added Hong Jung Min, CEO of Hanatour Vietnam.

Hashtag: #SunGroup

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