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World Brand Moganshan Conference opens, sharing recipe for forging lasting brand

DEQING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 May 2024 – The 2024 World Brand Moganshan Conference (WBS) kicked off on May 10 in the picturesque town of Moganshan, located in Deqing County, eastern China’s Zhejiang Province, as the country celebrates the 8th China Brand Day.

Similar to the annual winter gathering of global leaders and elites in Davos, Switzerland, more than 4,000 participants from renowned companies around the world, as well as representatives from governments, international media, global academic institutions, and industry associations, have converged in the renowned destination of Moganshan, renowned for its legendary sword-making heritage. Together, they are exploring the path to brand development.

As a significant driving force in promoting the cultivation of a brand powerhouse, WBS was initiated in 2023 by Xinhua News Agency, China Council for Brand Development, as well as various partners including Zhejiang Province, Huzhou City and Deqing County.

The conference has established an international, authoritative, and professional platform for exploring the historical development patterns of global brands, analyzing the current development trends in the field, and envisioning the future of global brand development. WBS holds a position of great influence as one of China’s most significant events centered around brand development.

Under the theme “Brands Bring Better Future for the World,” this year’s conference will encompass a comprehensive program of over 40 main activities and several supporting events, spanning across three days. In addition to renowned Chinese and global brands showcasing and promoting their products in Moganshan, the conference has also attracted participation from more than one-third of China’s provincial-level regions, which seek to present their unique attributes and expand their cooperation networks through various means.

This year’s WBS maintains its focus on China, while also emphasizing a global perspective. The diverse range of activities align with current trends and incorporate a global vision. The conference serves as a platform for communication and cooperation between Chinese and foreign brands.

At the opening ceremony and main forum, Joe Weinman, a 5G digital transformation strategist who proposed Cloudonomics, delivered a public lecture on global brand strategy in the age of artificial intelligence.

A series of international events, including an exchange event at lawn between Chinese and foreign entrepreneurs, a forum on the world’s Top 500 brand development, a forum on international branding, and a think tank forum on global brand innovation and development, feature global brand topics. These events will analyze the driving role of cultural elements from different countries and regions in the growth of corporate brands, and explore effective strategies for cross-cultural brand communication.

During the conference, the 2024 China Brand Value Information and various rankings will be released, including the unveiling of the brand cases of sponsors and local governments, aiming to establish an authoritative release system in global brand development.

The event has assembled a distinguished gathering of domestic and international experts, scholars, and renowned entrepreneurs who will actively participate in discussions and share their insights on a wide range of topics.

These discussions will delve into the shared characteristics that contribute to the success of global brands, the cultural influences propelling the growth of such brands, and the essential principles that ensure the long-term viability of global brands. This diverse array of intellectual discussions will offer a rich and stimulating exploration of brand development.

“Think globally and aim for building a world-renowned brand,” said Nan Cunhui, board chairman of Zhejiang-based CHINT Group Co., Ltd.

From its humble beginnings as a family workshop with only 8 employees, to its current presence in over 140 countries and regions, CHINT Group Co., Ltd., founded in 1984, has evolved into a globally renowned provider of smart energy system solutions.

According to Nan, companies must place reliance on technological innovation and foster a sense of craftsmanship in order to enhance product quality and brand value. Simultaneously, it is crucial to consistently broaden the global perspective, reinforce the scope and depth of corporate globalization, and, as a result, augment international influence.

Brand building is a top priority on China’s agenda, serving as a strong driver for the country’s pursuit of high-quality development, the creation of a high-quality life, and the enhancement of communication and cooperation with the world.

Since 2017, May 10 has been designated as China Brand Day, with WBS emerging as one of the flagship events of this occasion. It is anticipated that Moganshan Town will evolve into the “Davos” of the global branding industry.

According to the official plan, China aims to establish a comprehensive brand system by 2035. This system will encompass numerous corporate, industrial, and regional brands that are recognized for their exceptional quality, notable advantages, and independent intellectual property rights.

This brand system will be strategically positioned, highly competitive, and imbued with vitality, propelling China’s overall brand strength to a prominent global position. It will contribute to meeting the increasing aspirations of the population for an improved quality of life.

Hashtag: #DeqingInformationOffice #WorldBrandMoganshanConference

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

Pop Diva Joey Yung To Take Enthusiasts On An Eternal Musical Journey And Remarks The Grand Finale of Melco Residency Concert Series Season Two Headlining with ‘Joey Yung Eternity Live in Macau 2024’

Exclusive offers for Melco Style members to enjoy 20% off advance ticketing and 25% discount on Combo for 4 only from May 14 – May 20


MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 May 2024 – Since inception last year, Melco Residency Concert Series presented by Melco Style has quickly become one of the Asia’s most sought-after flagship entertainment centerpiece and has attracted over tens of thousands music fans coming all over Asia. At the finale this year, pop diva Joey Yung will take the stage again at the Studio City Event Center headlining with Melco Residency Concert Series ‘Joey Yung Live in Macau 2024’, featuring a total of 12 ‘Eternal Musical Journeys’ for all her beloved enthusiasts across 6 weekends starting from July 13. Music fans, get ready for an elegant encounter!

joey 1

Mr. Kevin Benning, Senior Vice President of Melco Resorts & Entertainment Limited and General Manager of Studio City Macau said, ‘Melco has been thrilled to see the enthusiastic responses for Melco Residency Concert Series from music fans across Asia, it also undoubtedly implied Melco’s efforts on introducing residency concert culture to Macau has been a resounding success. We’re so happy to welcome pop diva Joey Yung back to Studio City Event Center for another Melco-exclusive performance to grandly wrap up the second season of Melco Residency Concert Series. Melco strives to be a pioneer in premium travel, leisure and entertainment to deliver world-class offerings that goes beyond imagination and in full support to the Macau SAR government’s initiative in steadying Macau’s leading position as a top-notch entertainment and tourism landmark on the global map. As a premier integrated entertainment resort in Macau, Studio City will continue enriching our entertainment portfolio with more surprising new attractions soon be revealed at Studio City. We also look forward to the third season of Melco Residency Concert Series coming next year as we guarantee an even more comprehensive range of innovative entertainment and uppermost hospitality experiences to be deliver for all tourists visiting Macau.”

joey 2

Dubbed the wonder diva of Cantopop, Joey Yung being the first among the superstars line up of Melco Residency Concert Series to unveil the LIVE in Asia’s First Ever Residency Concert Series last year and tickets were sold out almost instantly. Joey has attended many concerts across the world to draw inspirations for preparation of the limited-edition Melco Residency Concert Series for audiences to enjoy. ‘The pursuit of dreams is an eternal journey no matter how hard and cruel the reality is. The never-ending journey cannot be seen or touched, the most beautiful things can only be felt from within your heart.’, expressed by Joey Yung on her bespoke concert theme ‘Eternity’ as she hopes that music lovers will truly immerse in her dreamy musical world at ‘Joey Yung Eternity Live in Macau’.

joey 3

At the last season in gorgeous and elegant costumes, Joey performed many of the classic ballads that made her so popular across Asia, she showed off the performing skills that made her the Cantopop diva of her generation. Joey has also been practising hard on the piano to surprise fans in performing her hit ballad “Little”. A pop icon who truly loves her fans, Joey purposely designed a catwalk platform extended from the stage so that she can get even more up close to her fans. She also carefully curated a setlist that changed from night to night. As a consummate performer, Joey definitely excited her fans and deeply immerse them into her musical world.

joey 4

Coming to the second season of Melco Residency Concert Series, Ms. Joey Yung said, ‘A year has passed and I’m still so excited to take the Studio City Event Center stage once again this year. Last year, the love and passion from my Asia fans really moved me. I can’t wait to return this July for the new season of Melco Residency Concert Series “Joey Yung Eternity Live in Macau 2024” as it gives me a chance to tailor-made a brand-new bespoke concert experience for Melco with the concept of Eternity to share my beautiful and dreamy musical world with audience. This summer, I would like to invite my fans from all over Asia to join me at Studio City Event Center for the Melco exclusive ‘eternal musical journey’. Let’s enjoy an “All-out Summer” together!’

Presented by Melco Style, Melco Residency Concert Series ‘Joey Yung Eternity Live in Macau 2024’ will debut in July 13 with tickets on sale starting from May 21. Become a Melco Style WeChat member may enjoy exclusive advance booking to reserve the best view seating with 20% off for single ticket and 25% discount on combo for 4 only available from May 14-20. In addition, Studio City has also prepared other superstar privileges to dedicated music fans – ‘Strongest hits’ VIP Suite party package offers fans to enjoy a variety of tasty food and refreshing drinks while appreciating the Melco exclusive spectacle in a private cabin and continuing their hot vibes with post-show party at Club MOP private box. The ‘Pretty Crazy’ Free Flow Concert Package offers two hours of all-you-can-drink for fans to warm up and get prepared to fully indulged in the concert frenzy. More variety of accommodation, entertainment, and dining packages all at an incredible great value are also available. For details, please visit https://www.studiocity-macau.com/en/offer/melco-style-residency-concert-joey-yung

Melco Style presents:
Residency Concert Series ‘Joey Yung Eternity Live in Macau 2024’
Show date: July 13-14, 20-21, 27-28; August 10-11, 17-18, 24-25 (12 shows)
Time: 19:00
Venue: Studio City Event Center
Ticket price: Starting from MOP688

joey QR code

Become a Melco Style WeChat member to enjoy an exclusive 20% discount on single ticket and 25% discount on Combo for 4 from May 14-20! (Only for 7 days)
*Terms and conditions applied



“Spectacular” Concert Hotel Package

Booking date: May 14, – Aug 24, 2024
Check-in date: July 13 / 14 / 20 / 21 / 27 / 28; August 10 / 11 / 17 / 18 / 24 / 25, 2024
During the pre-sale, enjoy complimentary breakfast for 2

STUDIO CITY

Package starts at MOP 3,299

  • One-night stay in a Celebrity Vista King Room
  • Concert tickets in B / C Reserve for two
  • Access to the Outdoor Pool and the gym at Celebrity Tower
  • Complimentary local calls and Wi-Fi access
ALTIRA

Package starts at MOP 4,099

  • One-night stay in a Corner Suite
  • Concert tickets in B / C Reserve for two
  • Access to Indoor Heated Infinity Pool and Fitness Centre
  • Complimentary shuttle bus to Studio City
  • Complimentary local calls and Wi-Fi access
  • Complimentary selected mini bar items
  • Complimentary pressing service (2 pieces per day)
W MACAU – STUDIO CITY

Package starts at MOP 3,430

  • One night stay in a Spectacular (King / 2 Doubles) Room
  • Concert tickets in B / C Reserve for two
  • Complimentary local calls and Wi-Fi access
GRAND HYATT MACAU

Package starts at MOP 3,399

  • One-night stay in a Deluxe King Room
  • Concert tickets in B / C Reserve for two
  • Access to the 40-meter hotel swimming pool and the fitness center at Grand Hyatt Macau
  • Complimentary shuttle bus to Studio City
  • Complimentary local calls and Wi-Fi access

“Glamorous” Premium Concert Hotel Package
Booking date: May 14 – Aug 24, 2024
Check-in date: July 13 / 14 / 20 / 21 / 27 / 28; August 10 / 11 / 17 / 18 / 24 / 25, 2024
During the pre-sale, enjoy complimentary breakfast for 2

STUDIO CITY

Package starts at MOP 5,699
Package includes:

  • One-night stay in Star Premier Suite
  • Concert tickets in VVIP / VIP / A Reserve for 2 (Seat Map)
  • MOP 1,000 Studio City Consumption Rebate
  • Complimentary local calls and Wi-Fi access
  • Access to the Outdoor Pool and the gym at Star Tower
W MACAU – STUDIO CITY

Package starts at MOP 5,530
Package includes:

  • One night stay in a Cool Corner (King) Room
  • Concert tickets in VVIP / VIP / A Reserve for 2 (Seat Map)
  • MOP 1,000 Dining Credit
  • Complimentary local calls and Wi-Fi access

“Strongest hits” VIP Suite Party Package

Party of 12 Package starts at MOP 29,000 (Original price MOP 45,000)
Party of 24 Package starts at MOP 48,000 (Original price MOP 70,000)

Save up to MOP 16,000, Includes:

  • Exclusive private box for the concert (Ticket + Buffet)*
  • Club MOP party room with valued MOP 5,000 consumption credits*
“Pretty Crazy” Free Flow Concert Package

Package starts at MOP 1,388
Applicable for A / B Reserve

Just add MOP100, Includes:

  • Unlimited drinks for one at designated restaurants for 2 hours*
  • Concert ticket for one (A Reserve MOP 1,688 / B Reserve MOP 1,288)

Two-hour all-you-can-drink offer is valid at the following restaurants:

  • Rossi Pizza/ Lobby Café at Epic Tower/ Club MOP


*Only available for on day concert

Hashtag: #MelcoResortsandEntertainment

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

About Melco Resorts & Entertainment Limited

The Company, with its American depositary shares listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (Nasdaq: MLCO), is a developer, owner and operator of integrated resort facilities in Asia and Europe. The Company currently operates Altira Macau (), an integrated resort located at Taipa, Macau and City of Dreams (), an integrated resort located in Cotai, Macau. Its business also includes the Mocha Clubs (), which comprise the largest non-casino based operations of electronic gaming machines in Macau. The Company also majority owns and operates Studio City (), a cinematically-themed integrated resort in Cotai, Macau. In the Philippines, a Philippine subsidiary of the Company currently operates and manages City of Dreams Manila (), an integrated resort in the Entertainment City complex in Manila. In Europe, the Company is currently developing City of Dreams Mediterranean () in the Republic of Cyprus, which is expected to be the largest and premier integrated destination resort in Europe. The Company is currently operating a temporary casino, the first authorized casino in the Republic of Cyprus, and is licensed to operate four satellite casinos (“Cyprus Casinos”). Upon the opening of City of Dreams Mediterranean, the Company will continue to operate the satellite casinos while operation of the temporary casino will cease. For more information about the Company, please visit .

The Company is majority owned by Melco International Development Limited, a company listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, which is in turn majority owned and led by Mr. Lawrence Ho, who is the Chairman, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Company.

Sukhdeep Singh Joins SolarWinds as Head of Channel Sales APJ


SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 May 2024 – SolarWinds (NYSE:SWI), a leading provider of simple, powerful, secure observability and IT management software, today announced the recent appointment of Sukhdeep Singh as the head of channel sales for Asia-Pacific and Japan (APJ). Singh is responsible for developing the region’s SolarWinds channel business and strategic partner alliances, spearheading the company’s ongoing channel strategy to further enhance and grow SolarWinds regional presence in the IT operations management (ITOM) software business.

Sukhdeep Singh, Head of Channel Sales, SolarWinds APJ
Sukhdeep Singh, Head of Channel Sales, SolarWinds APJ

“Sukhdeep’s invaluable experience in developing and managing channels business and strategic partner alliances, coupled with an in-depth understanding of enterprise software sales in the APJ region, makes him the ideal candidate for the position,” said Bharat Bedi, managing director of SolarWinds APJ. “We’re thrilled to have him on board and look forward to him fostering greater synergies with channel partners and customers, driving sales, and strengthening our in-market relationships.”

With nearly three decades of industry experience across sales, business development, strategic planning, channel sales, and alliances, Singh joins SolarWinds to build and nurture a progressive partnering rhythm to set the base for cultivating an extensive channel partner ecosystem in APJ.

“The decision to join SolarWinds is a tremendously exciting one since it offers me a unique opportunity to significantly further the SolarWinds growth strategy working with partners. Simple tenets of integrity, consistency, and transparency help foster long-term profitable business relationships,” said Singh.

“SolarWinds is evolving into a full-stack observability software company, helping customers reduce time to detect and resolve IT operations issues. We are eager to work with our partners to help them connect the dots and unlock the true potential of the SolarWinds full-stack observability suite, which will benefit our joint customers tremendously.”

Before joining SolarWinds, Singh held senior APJ executive positions with Oracle® and Blue Yonder®. His deep and long-standing relationships with a diverse set of partners in APJ, including global systems integrators, big consulting and advisory firms, distributors, value-added resellers, MSPs, and cloud partners, will inevitably be favorable and valuable for his new endeavor.

In 2024, SolarWinds celebrates its 25th anniversary and commemorates a quarter-century of producing cutting-edge solutions that deliver value and reduce complexity for enterprises, wherever they are on their digital transformation journeys. Founded in 1999 with a vision to simplify IT management, SolarWinds solutions continue to provide organizations worldwide—regardless of type, size, or complexity—with tools to help IT teams take a proactive approach toward growth, productivity, and innovation. Today, the SolarWinds® Platform unifies observability, database, and service management solutions to help enterprises optimize performance, ensure reliability, and enhance security within hybrid and multi-cloud environments.

Additional Resources:

Connect with SolarWinds

Hashtag: #SWI #SWIresearch #SWIitsm #SWIsecurity





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

About SolarWinds

SolarWinds (NYSE:SWI) is a leading provider of simple, powerful, secure observability and IT management software built to enable customers to accelerate their digital transformation. Our solutions provide organizations worldwide—regardless of type, size, or complexity—with a comprehensive and unified view of today’s modern, distributed, and hybrid network environments. We continuously engage with IT service and operations professionals, DevOps and SecOps professionals, and database administrators (DBAs) to understand the challenges they face in maintaining high-performing and highly available hybrid IT infrastructures, applications, and environments. The insights we gain from them, in places like our community, allow us to address customers’ needs now and in the future. Our focus on the user and our commitment to excellence in end-to-end hybrid IT management have established SolarWinds as a worldwide leader in solutions for observability, IT service management, application performance, and database management. Learn more today at .

This press release contains “forward-looking” statements, which are subject to the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, including statements regarding our partner growth strategy and sales. These forward-looking statements are based on management’s beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to management. Forward-looking statements include all statements that are not historical facts and may be identified by terms such as “aim,” “anticipate,” “believe,” “can,” “could,” “seek,” “should,” “feel,” “expect,” “will,” “would,” “plan,” “intend,” “estimate,” “continue,” or similar expressions and the negatives of those terms. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause actual results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause or contribute to such differences include but are not limited to, the risks and uncertainties described more fully in documents filed with or furnished to the Securities and Exchange Commission, including the risk factors discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the period ended December 31, 2023, filed on February 16, 2024. All information provided in this press release is as of the date hereof, and SolarWinds undertakes no duty to update this information except as required by law.

The SolarWinds, SolarWinds & Design, Orion, and THWACK trademarks are the exclusive property of SolarWinds Worldwide, LLC or its affiliates, are registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and may be registered or pending registration in other countries. All other SolarWinds trademarks, service marks, and logos may be common law marks or are registered or pending registration. All other trademarks mentioned herein are used for identification purposes only and are trademarks of (and may be registered trademarks of) their respective companies.

© 2024 SolarWinds Worldwide, LLC. All rights reserved.

Global Plastic Treaty: A Chance to Turn the Tide?

Global Plastic Treaty: A Chance to Turn the Tide?
Waste management professional collect garbage in the middle of a pile of trash. (photo: Swisscontact Lao PDR)

Plastic has revolutionized our lives, offering convenience and durability. However, its ever-growing presence is choking our environment and threatening public health.

ZF Aftermarket Champions Tailored Southeast Asia Solutions at the Malaysia Commercial Vehicle Expo (MCVE) 2024.


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA Media OutReach Newswire – 10 May 2024 – ZF Aftermarket, renowned for its comprehensive systems solutions, unveiled a series of innovation poised to raise the benchmark for the commercial vehicle industry. With its strong legacy in e-mobility and digitalization, ZF Aftermarket launched a much-anticipated suite of products, meticulously developed to meet the stringent requirements of commercial vehicles.

ZFA Spokeperson

“Our latest suite of products underscores our proactive approach towards the evolving demands of the commercial vehicle industry. We have harnessed our global expertise to engineer solutions that are uniquely tailored to meet the Southeast Asia market’s specific climatic and operational challenges. This initiative marks our range as not only responsive to current industry demands but a step ahead, anticipating and shaping the trajectory of future mobility,” said Chee How Teoh, Head of Aftermarket Asia Pacific at ZF Aftermarket.

SACHS, Innovative Clutch Systems
Integrating German precision with local market insights, the latest clutch systems raise the bar for operational efficiency with extended replacement intervals reaching 700,000km, reflecting ZF Aftermarket’s commitment to enhanced efficiency, precision, and lasting performance.

SACHS, Advanced Shock Absorbers
A further leap was made in vehicular stability and safety with the new shock absorbers, which not only improve tire lifespan but also reduce tire wear caused by shock absorber degrading. By reducing braking distances and tire wear, they not only bolster driver safety but underscore ZF Aftermarket’s dedication to solutions that improve not just vehicle performance, but also contribute to cost-effectiveness.

High-Performing Transmission Fluids
ZF Aftermarket completed its trio of innovations by introducing high-performing Non ZF – transmission fluids specifically tailored for all types of commercial vehicles, including both mechanical and automatic transmissions. This product is a result of extensive research to enhance performance and longevity, specifically within the demanding SOUTHEAST ASIA climate and road conditions.

“Our innovations attest to ZF Aftermarket’s leadership in technology and strategic foresight. They empower our customers to lead their markets with commercial vehicles that boast reliability, efficiency and a design tailored to the SOUTHEAST ASIA region’s demanding climate and terrain,” said Aleksander Rabinovitch, Head of Business Line Commercial Vehicles at ZF Aftermarket.

As the region’s commercial transport sector flourishes, ZF Aftermarket showcased its comprehensive commitment to increasing uptime, reliability, and efficiency – critical aspects for public transport operators, logistics companies, and fleet owners. As such, its products are designed to deliver performance while minimising maintenance and downtime, crucial for the SOUTHEAST ASIA region’s burgeoning commercial transportation sector.

Further underlining its global expertise with a local touch, ZF Aftermarket showcased its ZF [pro] Service workshop concept, a service programme designed for commercial vehicles that integrates three key concepts into a single, cohesive service solution. This programme offers a full spectrum of advantages to partners, including technical training, special tooling conditions, and marketing support. For further details on ZF Aftermarket’s innovative solutions, please visit aftermarket.zf.com.
Hashtag: #ZFAftermarket

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

Huge Fire at Chemical Storage Tank in Thailand Kills One and Injures 4

Flames and smoke spread from a tank of pyrolysis gasoline that caught fire at Map Ta Phut Port in Rayong.(Photo by Big Foot Saphan Si)

BANGKOK (AP) — At least one person was killed and four others were injured after a huge fire broke out at a chemical storage tank in an Eastern Thailand industrial park on Thursday.

The fire in Mab Ta Phut Industrial Estate, which was first reported in the morning, was contained more than six hours later. Fire workers estimated it might take more than 10 hours to be able to fully extinguish the flames, according to the Rayong province’s public relations department.

About 400 workers and residents have been evacuated to a temporary shelter, the department said.

Officials said the tank, which has a storage capacity of 2,500 cubic meters, belongs to the Mab Ta Phut Tank Terminal company, which operates a commercial port and storage terminal for petrochemical products. They said the tank contained Pyrolysis gasoline, a mixture of chemicals commonly used in gasoline blending.

Videos and photos from the scene show a huge plume of black smoke and a raging fire engulfing a white tank that was standing close to several others.

The company said in a statement that it is investigating the cause of the fire and will implement measures to prevent it from happening again. It expressed its condolences and said the company is ready to provide compensation to those affected.

In 2021, the company was ordered to cease operations temporarily after another one of its storage tanks erupted and caught fire, killing three and seriously injuring two.

DFI Retail Group and PolyU SPEED Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Introduce Hong Kong’s FIRST QF Level 6 Programme in Retail


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 May 2024 – DFI Retail Group (DFI) and The School of Professional Education and Executive Development of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU SPEED), the unit under the College of Professional and Continuing Education of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (CPCE) have officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 9 May 2024. This MoU paves the way for a collaborative partnership between the two parties, to introduce Hong Kong’s first Qualifications Framework (QF) Level 6 programme in the field of retail – equivalent to a Master level. The strategic alliance aims to attract and nurture retail talent.

Front row (left to right): Ms. Joy Xu, Group Chief People & Culture Officer of DFI Retail Group, Dr. Jason Chan, MH, JP, Director of PolyU SPEED and Associate Dean of College of Professional and Continuing Education (Information and Development) Back row (left to right): Mr. Steve Lai, General Manager of QF Secretariat, Prof. Peter Yuen, Dean of College of Professional and Continuing Education of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (CPCE), Mr. Benedict Li – Acting Group Talent Management & Organisational Development Director of DFI Retail Group
Front row (left to right): Ms. Joy Xu, Group Chief People & Culture Officer of DFI Retail Group, Dr. Jason Chan, MH, JP, Director of PolyU SPEED and Associate Dean of College of Professional and Continuing Education (Information and Development)
Back row (left to right): Mr. Steve Lai, General Manager of QF Secretariat, Prof. Peter Yuen, Dean of College of Professional and Continuing Education of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (CPCE), Mr. Benedict Li – Acting Group Talent Management & Organisational Development Director of DFI Retail Group

Under the agreement, DFI and PolyU SPEED will work closely together to establish a framework for cooperation in multiple areas, including:

  • Development of the FIRST Retail QF Level 6 Programme (equivalent to a Master level): The partnership aims to create an innovative and pioneering programme that meets the evolving needs of the retail industry. By leveraging their respective expertise, DFI and PolyU SPEED will design a curriculum that equips DFI team members with the future skills and knowledge required for success in the retail sector.
  • Development of a Retail QF Level 5 Programme (equivalent to a Bachelor level): In addition to the Level 6 programme, the collaboration will also focus on developing a QF Level 5 programme. This programme will provide team members with a solid foundation in retail management, enabling them to propel further within the industry.
  • Student Internship Opportunities: DFI will provide CPCE students with valuable internship opportunities. These internships will allow them to gain practical experience in a real-world retail environment, enhancing their skills and industry knowledge.
  • Business Cases Competition: The collaboration will also involve organising business case competitions for CPCE students. This initiative aims to foster innovation, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills among students by presenting them with real-life retail challenges.

DFI is committed to investing in the professional development of its team. By offering continuous learning and development opportunities, DFI ensures that its team members have access to resourceful support, enabling them to thrive in their roles. The collaboration with PolyU SPEED, incorporating the QF framework, will provide structured pathways for growth and advancement within the organisation, empowering team members to reach their full potential.

Witnessed by Mr. Benedict Li – Acting Group Talent Management & Organisational Development Director of DFI; Prof. Peter Yuen, Dean of CPCE and Mr. Steve Lai, General Manager of QF Secretariat (QFS), the MoU was signed by Ms. Joy Xu, Group Chief People & Culture Officer of DFI and Dr. Jason Chan, MH, JP, Director of PolyU SPEED and Associate Dean of CPCE (Information and Development).

“We are delighted to embark on this collaborative journey with PolyU,” said Ms. Joy Xu.” By combining our industry knowledge with PolyU’s academic expertise, we aim to create impactful educational programmes and opportunities that will benefit both our team members and the retail industry as a whole.”
Hashtag: #DFIRetailGroup #DFI #MoU #continuouslearning #retail #QualificationsFramework


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

About DFI Retail Group

DFI Retail Group (the ‘Group’) is a leading pan-Asian retailer. The Group provides quality and value to Asian consumers by offering leading brands, a compelling retail experience and great service; all delivered through a strong store network supported by efficient supply chains.

The Group (including associates and joint ventures) operates under a number of well-known brands across food, convenience, health and beauty, home furnishings, restaurants and other retailing.

Japan Boosts Road Repair Efforts in Laos with New Equipment Handover

Photo supplied.

Laos, like many developing nations, faces challenges in maintaining its road networks, which are crucial for transportation and connectivity. Recognizing the importance of well-maintained roads for Laos’ development, Japan has stepped forward with a commitment to assist in overcoming this challenge.

As part of this pledge, Japan will provide 24 units of essential road repair equipment, comprising road stabilizers and motor graders, to the Lao government.

The equipment, valued at 800 million yen (approximately USD 5.3 million), will be deployed nationwide to facilitate road repairs. This assistance comes as part of a broader aid package, with Japan committing 1.5 billion yen (approximately USD 10 million) in new aid signed on 26 April.

Photo supplied.

A ceremony was held in Vientiane on 9 May for the handover of the “Economic and Social Development Program (Road Repair Related Equipment).” Japanese Ambassador Kobayashi Kenichi presided over the event.

Traditionally, road repair in Laos involved removing pavement sections and laying new pavement after waste disposal. However, with the introduction of new support equipment, old pavement can now be reused as new pavement material during road construction.

These efforts are expected to extend the service life of roads, shorten construction periods, reduce costs, minimize environmental impact by reducing road waste, and expedite recovery from disasters.

Japan has been a key partner in Laos’ infrastructure development journey, supporting projects such as the Second Mekong International Bridge, Pakse Bridge, National Road No. 9, and Vientiane National Road No. 1. These initiatives not only enhance comfort and safety for residents but also strengthen crucial logistics routes vital for economic, industrial, and trade development in Laos.

The partnership between Japan and Laos has flourished since its elevation to a strategic partnership in 2015. Japan remains committed to addressing Laos’ diverse challenges through effective cooperation for sustainable economic and social development.


 

Information provided by the Embassy of Japan to Laos