The second Lao University Games wrapped up in Vientiane on 13 May with the distribution of hundreds of medals to Lao athletes.
Second Lao University Games Concludes with NUOL Triumph

Coda Bridge Launches First-of-its-Kind Purpose Bound Money Blockchain Charity Project in Hong Kong
Supported by Ronald McDonald House Charities Hong Kong and Dignity Kitchen
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 May 2024 – In a groundbreaking initiative today, Coda Bridge introduced Purpose Bound Money (PBM) — the first innovative charity project of its kind in Hong Kong.

Ronald McDonald House Charities Hong Kong has been selected as the charitable organisation to be part of the pilot program. With this program, every eligible family will receive an electronic meal voucher of HK$500 (limited quota of 200 families) to dine at Dignity Kitchen, a top-notch social enterprise in HK with majority of their employees being physically challenged and disadvantaged.
This pilot project leverages blockchain smart contract technology and a simple web-based Purpose Bound Money (PBM) platform to distribute and facilitate utilization of the vouchers. PBM ensures that all funds are directed precisely to causes and locations specified by donors. This not only guarantees that the donors’ intentions are honored but also introduces an unprecedented level of transparency and integrity in the donation process.
“Coda Bridge’s collaboration with RMHC HK and Dignity Kitchen through this charity project is a testament to the impact of innovation technology for social good.” said James Loh, Chairman of Coda Bridge.
The versatility of the PBM platform extends beyond charity. It is poised to revolutionize the management of education funds, government disbursements, e-commerce, prepaid packages, and cross-border payments, enhancing the precision and efficiency of fund utilization. The PBM platform makes the digital money programmable, ensuring that funds are used for specific purposes and enhancing the transparency and controllability of funds.
Hashtag: #CodaBridge
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Coda Bridge
Coda Bridge, headquartered in Hong Kong and backed by leading venture capitalists, merges the expertise of seasoned financial and IT professionals. Our company harnesses the power of FinTech to innovate and drive efficiency in digital transactions through our blockchain based Purpose Bound Money platform, tailored for specific financial needs.
Appier delivers strong Q1 results, achieving continuous profitable growth with diversified customer traction
Early profitability sets the stage for a promising start toward its 2025 financial targets
Highlight and achievements of Q1 FY24:
- Growth momentum continues, as revenue increased by 33% YoY, exceeding 31% of FY24 guidance to reach JPY 7.4 billion, driven by robust traction from existing customers and early success in vertical diversification strategies
- Gross profit grew 37% YoY, with gross margin reaching 51.7%, a historical high for Q1 due to GenAI technology advancements and prediction accuracy improvements
- Profitability ahead of schedule, with operating income turning profitable from the same period last year to JPY 65 million and a 0.9% operating margin, in addition to EBITDA margins at 10% to reach JPY 736 million
- R&D investment in AI technology development enhances the positive cycle of operating leverage and sales productivity improvement, thereby driving continued improvements in key operating metrics
TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 May 2024 –
Strong Q1 performance reveals market strategy and business operation success
Appier Group Inc (TSE: 4180), henceforth referred to as Appier, today announced its earnings results for the first quarter of fiscal year 2024. Despite a traditionally low season, Appier’s Q1 revenue reached JPY 7.4 billion, marking a 33% YoY growth and exceeding 31% full-year guidance, further accelerating its business traction from the last quarter and the same period of last year with its consistent growth momentum. Meanwhile, the company’s gross profit YoY growth reached 37%, with a record high gross margin for Q1 of 51.7%.
The company’s operating income has significantly improved, increasing by JPY 96 million YoY and achieving profitability at JPY 65 million. This performance, highlighted by a 0.9% operating margin and a 10.0% EBITDA margin, is ahead of schedule due to disciplined cost management and gross margin improvement.
Appier’s enhanced gross and operating profit margins reflect its excellent execution capability to drive continuous technological advancements to profitable growth and S&M productivity enhancements. Appier’s R&D investment in AI technology not only enhances the positive cycle of operating leverage and sales productivity but also positions the company on a clear path toward achieving its FY25 targets. These investments lead to continuous improvements in key operating metrics, including growth in Average Revenue per Customer (ARPC) and gross and operating margins.
Robust revenue expansion and strategic customer diversification
Appier’s Q1 revenue growth highlights the success of its vertical diversification strategies across regions, aligned with continuous traction from existing customers, especially in the E-Commerce and Digital Content sectors. The company has observed significant growth in the adoption of GenAI technology by existing customers within the Advertising Cloud. Appier has also successfully expanded its customer base for Digital Content in South Korea and extended its reach into new domains across the US & EMEA, and NEA, demonstrating solid early gains.
Diversified vertical expansion and revenue streams have also been instrumental in driving Appier’s resilient growth. The company achieved 67% and 31% YoY revenue growth in the US & EMEA and NEA regions, respectively. Following the upcoming higher season for Digital Content and accelerated new customer acquisition, a promising second quarter and continued improvement in profitability are expected.
“We focus on developing state-of-the-art AI technology and translating it into tangible commercial benefits to drive customer ROI. As our customers grow, so does our operating leverage, leading to stronger financial outcomes,” said Dr. Chih-han Yu, CEO and Co-Founder, Appier. “Our Q1 results clearly reflect our dedication to these objectives and underscore our commitment to continuous strategic growth through technology advancement.”
Enhance GenAI capabilities in three strategic directions
Appier’s recent GenAI innovations are designed to elevate customer experiences and catalyze business growth across multiple dimensions. These include enhancing advertising performance, optimizing keyword exploration and improving auto-onsite editing.
- Enhanced advertising performance: Leverage GenAI to boost Advertising Cloud efficiency and achieve ROI-driven results through automated personalized marketing messages and creative generation.
- Optimized keyword exploration: Utilize GenAI to discover and target keywords and interests beyond conventional strategies and human knowledge, effectively expanding the customer base through innovative GenAI.
- GenAI auto onsite editor: Enable customers to describe their desired website templates through text or image inputs, which are then automatically learned and integrated using GenAI, reducing cross-departmental communication among marketing, engineering, and design teams.
With these GenAI applications, Appier believes it can collectively boost productivity, expand customer outreach, and enhance operational efficiency, setting a new digital marketing and content management standard.
Hashtag: #Appier #ArtificialIntelligence #GenerativeAI #MarTech #earnings
https://www.appier.com/en/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/appier/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Appier
Appier (TSE: 4180) is a software-as-a-service (SaaS) company that uses artificial intelligence to power business decision-making. Founded in 2012 with a vision of democratizing AI, Appier’s mission is turning AI into ROI by making software intelligent. Appier has 17 offices across APAC, Europe and US and is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Visit www.appier.com for more company information, and visit
ir.appier.com/en/ for more IR information.
Indonesian Rescuers Search Through Rivers, Rubble After Flash Floods That Killed at Least 50

TANAH DATAR, Indonesia (AP) — Rescuers on 14 May searched in rivers and the rubble of devastated villages for bodies, and whenever possible, survivors of flash floods that hit Indonesia’s Sumatra Island over the weekend.
Monsoon rains and a landslide of mud and cold lava from Mount Marapi caused rivers to breach their banks. The deluge tore through mountainside villages in four districts in West Sumatra province just before midnight on 11 May.
The floods swept away people and 79 homes and submerged hundreds of houses and buildings, forcing more than 3,300 residents to flee to temporary government shelters, National Disaster Management Agency spokesperson Abdul Muhari said.
Muhari said 50 bodies had been pulled from mud and rivers by Tuesday, mostly in worst-hit Agam and Tanah Datar districts, while rescuers are searching for 27 people who are reportedly missing.
Lao Government Mandates Licensing for Commercial Land Use
In a move aimed at regulating land-related businesses and tax management, the Lao government has introduced a ban on issuing land titles to buyers acquiring land use rights for commercial purposes without the requisite licenses from the natural resources and environment sector.
Introducing Rescence EYE Optima: The Breakthrough Eye Anti-aging Supplement

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 May 2024 – Rescence Laboratory, a leading longevity supplement provider in Hong Kong, is delighted to announce the launch of Rescence EYE Optima, a revolutionary eye supplement designed to strengthen the eyes and combat age-related eye diseases, including presbyopia. This groundbreaking supplement combines extensively researched AREDS2 formula from the West with the latest clinical findings on the reversal of presbyopia using time-tested traditional Chinese medicine ingredients from the East, providing comprehensive support for eye health.
Rescence operates on the belief that achieving an excellent healthspan and long lifespan is possible by establishing a solid foundation of regulated cellular and organ health, nurturing a healthy microbiome through mindful eating, and supplementing with missing nutrients. Following the success of their flagship products – Rescence Trio Pure NMN 15000, Pure RSV Resveratrol 15000, and Pure SPD Spermidine 15000, which come in pure extract powder form and effectively address all 12 hallmarks of aging by promoting cellular and organ health, Rescence EYE Optima is now launched to offer superior eye care to individuals seeking to maintain optimal vision as they age, minimizing the aging effects on their eyes.
Rescence EYE Optima Key Ingredients for Reversing Senescence of the Eyes
Rescence EYE Optima incorporates a powerful blend of key ingredients specifically selected for their ability to reverse the senescence of the eyes. These ingredients work synergistically to provide comprehensive support for optimal eye health.
Marigold Flower Extract: This extract contains natural lutein and zeaxanthin, which have been extensively researched for their beneficial effects on eye health. These carotenoids are known to support macular health and protect the retina from oxidative damage.
Zinc Gluconate: Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a vital role in eye health. The attachment of zinc to gluconic acid in the form of zinc gluconate enhances its absorption in the intestines. Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of zinc gluconate in promoting eye health.
Bilberry Extract: Bilberries are rich in anthocyanins, which are potent antioxidants. These compounds have been associated with various benefits for eye health, including supporting healthy blood vessels in the eyes and improving night vision.
Copper Gluconate: Copper is another essential mineral that is important for maintaining healthy eyesight. Copper gluconate, a water-soluble form of copper, is often used to address copper deficiencies, which can impact eye health.
Magnesium Glycinate: Magnesium is involved in numerous biochemical processes in the body, including those related to eye health. Magnesium glycinate, a well-absorbed form of magnesium, has shown promising results in scientific studies regarding its impact on eye health.
Cassiae Semen Extract: Cassiae semen extract, derived from the seeds of the Cassia plant, has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine for treating eye conditions. Recent investigations suggest that it may have advantageous properties for promoting eye health.
Wolfberry Extract (Goji Berry): Wolfberry extract, commonly known as Goji Berry, is believed to have potential benefits for preventing or delaying the onset of common retinal diseases associated with aging. It is rich in antioxidants and other beneficial compounds.
Dendrobium Extract: Dendrobium extract contains various components, including polysaccharides, flavonoids, bibenzyls, phenanthrenes, alkaloids, and amino acids. These components possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which have been suggested to contribute to improved eye health.
For more information about Rescence EYE Optima, other Rescence Laboratory products, please visit www.rescence.com.
Hashtag: #RescenceLaboratory
https://www.facebook.com/Rescencelab/
https://www.instagram.com/rescencelab/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Rescence Laboratory
Rescence Laboratory is a leading provider of longevity supplements in Hong Kong. Their primary focus is on developing effective anti-aging solutions that promote and enhance both the healthspan and lifespan of individuals. Rescence Laboratory is committed to addressing all identified hallmarks of aging, targeting the root causes of major health issues.
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Pure NMN 15000,
Pure RSV Resveratrol 15000, and
Pure SPD Spermidine 15000 in extract powder form: Unique in the market, these products offer exceptionally high concentrations of pure extract to ensure maximum absorption and safety for users.
- Supplement Subscription Services: Rescence Laboratory is the only company in Hong Kong that provides subscription services for their supplements to ensure a steady and consistent supply of healthy supplementation for customers.
- User Surveys and Testimonials: Rescence Laboratory conducts regular user surveys to gather genuine testimonials and feedback.
- Swiss Manufacturing Standards: All Rescence Laboratory products are manufactured in a SGS certified factory. This certification guarantees that the manufacturing processes adhere to strict quality and safety standards, providing customers with peace of mind regarding the safety of the products.
Cathay enhances lifestyle partnership to bring more perks to members travelling to Thailand
Cathay members travelling to Thailand can now enjoy seamless two-way points conversion and exclusive member offers at ICONSIAM, Siam Paragon, Siam Centre and Siam Discovery
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 May 2024 – Overseas Cathay members[1] travelling to Thailand can now seamlessly and instantaneously convert between ONESIAM Coins and Asia Miles to enjoy even more rewards on the ground and in the air. Members from selected countries[2] can also enjoy the convenience of points conversion from outside of Thailand. Previously available to members in Thailand only, the partnership was first launched by Cathay and Siam Piwat Group in August 2023.

Cathay continues to expand its lifestyle offerings and provide members with more ways to earn and use Asia Miles wherever they are in the world. The partnership with Siam Piwat spans across four popular shopping malls in Thailand under the Siam Piwat Group, namely ICONSIAM, Siam Paragon, Siam Centre and Siam Discovery. Cathay members can enjoy:
- Convenient two-way instant points conversion
- Exclusive mall benefits and ONESIAM SuperApp privileges, including discount codes and bonus points (applicable until 31 July 2024 or for the first 10,000 redemptions)
- Exclusive tourist privileges, including gift cards and special offers from more than 100 participating stores (applicable until 31 July 2024).
On top of shopping and dining at these malls, ONESIAM Members, too, can convert their ONESIAM Coins to Asia Miles and use their miles for flights, hotel stays, and many more exciting lifestyle and travel rewards from Cathay’s extensive network of more than 800 partners worldwide. More details of this partnership can be found on Cathay’s website.
Dominic Perret, Cathay Regional General Manager for Southeast Asia, said: “We are very excited to extend this initiative to our members outside of Thailand. As a premium travel lifestyle brand, we are constantly on the lookout for opportunities to enhance our offerings and add value to the lives of our Cathay members. This partnership will give them the convenience and flexibility of two-way points conversion that offers the best of both worlds – whether it is exclusive benefits tailored to them while in Bangkok, or Cathay’s array of curated products and experiences which our members may access wherever they are in the world.”
Recognising Thailand’s popularity in Southeast Asia, Cathay is collaborating with local payment partners to make it even easier for Cathay members to earn Asia Miles on their everyday activities. More details will be announced in due course.
In addition to its partnership with Siam Piwat Group, Cathay has tie-ups with other shopping partners worldwide, allowing members to enjoy local and cross-border use of Asia Miles through shopping, travelling, and various points conversion opportunities. These include partnerships with Mitsui Outlet Park in Taiwan China and Japan, Mitsui Shopping Park LaLaport Taichung in Taiwan China, Shinsegae Duty Free in South Korea, and The Bicester Collection in Europe and the Chinese Mainland.
Members also have access to over 10,000 curated premium travel lifestyle products, including exclusive Cathay merchandise, when they shop with Cathay. Members have the flexibility of paying in miles, cash, or a combination of Miles Plus Cash. Miles don’t expire as long as members remain active every 18 months.
For more information about shopping with Cathay and other exciting offers, visit shopping.cathaypacific.com.
Hashtag: #CathayPacific
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Fastener Taiwan 2024: A Sustainable and High-Value Pathway

TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 May 2024 – “Fastener Taiwan” is set to be held from June 5th to 7th this summer. This flagship event in the screw fastener industry will bring together the groundbreaking innovations of over 300 top manufacturers, its scale marking a remarkable 20% growth compared to the previous year.

Pioneering Excellence in the Global Fastener Sector
Nestled within Southern Taiwan’s industrial nucleus, this event stands as a pivotal junction for the fastener supply chain, fostering collaboration and bolstering operational efficiencies. This strategic positioning not only streamlines procurement processes but also significantly reduces both time and costs associated with sourcing fastening solutions.
Exhibitors at this fastener exhibition represent industry giants, exemplified by major screw suppliers like ZYH YIN ENTERPRISE CO., LTD, which serves as a primary supplier for renowned brands such as IKEA, and Boltun, recognized as one of the top ten global automotive fastener manufacturers. Other notable participants include CHUN YU, renowned for producing screws for Taipei 101, and LU CHU SHIN YEE, specializing in manufacturing fasteners for semiconductor equipment. Moreover, additional exhibitors have solidified their positions in the high-value industry chain with groundbreaking products such as small artificial tooth roots or aviation fasteners.
Navigating the Green Sustainability Transition
However, the industry faces the daunting challenge of transitioning towards green sustainability. With 248 high carbon-emitting products listed in the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM), the steel fastener sector is particularly affected.
To align with global sustainability trends, Fastener Taiwan epitomizes the values of environmental and business sustainability in the industry. The introduction of the “ESG Pioneer” badge highlights exhibitors certified by international ESG standards, enhancing the visibility of ESG-compliant companies.
Driving Innovation and Environmental Responsibility
The exhibition introduces two major pavilions for the first time: the “High Value Fastener Gallery,” showcasing the versatility of high-value fasteners across various industrial applications, and the “Sustainability Zone,” spotlighting energy-saving and carbon-reducing applications along with waste recycling initiatives. These efforts drive the advancement of a circular economy, aiding businesses in adopting green solutions for their production lines. In addition, the exhibition will host the Global Fastener Forum, focusing on discussing the impact of CBAM on the fastener trade.
Official Website: www.fastenertaiwan.com.tw/en/
Hashtag: #FastenerTaiwan
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.