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inQubi Launches “The New Breed Of Virtual Pets” in Asia, with Global Expansion Plans

Free App Unlocks Engaging, Exciting Gameplay For All Ages

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach – 10 November 2023 – Driven by an unyielding passion for innovation, inQubi is on a mission to redefine the virtual pet experience. Committed to offering companionship, fun, learning, and adventure, inQubi introduces an innovative approach that aims to cater to a diverse audience.

Download the inQubi app now and embark on a delightful journey with inQubi, where the world of virtual pets is reimagined. Dive deep into an environment teeming with uniquely designed, 3D-animated companions, all waiting to be cared for, personalised, and adored.
Download the inQubi app now and embark on a delightful journey with inQubi, where the world of virtual pets is reimagined. Dive deep into an environment teeming with uniquely designed, 3D-animated companions, all waiting to be cared for, personalised, and adored.

Recognising the genuine desire many people have for pet companionship, inQubi offers a thoughtful alternative. Users across Asia can now download the inQubi Companion App for free, set up an account, and welcome their first inQubi virtual pet into their digital lives. The APAC launch is just the beginning, as inQubi has plans to expand globally in the near future.

The cornerstone of this initiative is the inQubi Companion App. With this app, users can embark on a journey of digital pet companionship, caring for their virtual pets’ needs, and forming a unique bond. Among the captivating roster of virtual pets is Flappy the Flapjack Octopus, who holds the distinction of being the first inQubi that every user receives free of charge upon joining the inQubi community.

The inQubi Companion App is designed with user choice in mind, eliminating the need for in-game purchases to enjoy the full experience. Users can earn Qubes, inQubi’s in-game currency, to introduce new pets, acquire items, and soon, partake in educational adventures. Qubes can be earned through playing mini-games and engaging in various in-app activities, including daily logins, and caring for your virtual pet.

One distinguishing feature of inQubi is its respect for users’ time, ensuring a non-intrusive experience with minimal notifications. Additionally, there is no pressure of losing a virtual pet due to inactivity; they remain patiently awaiting the next interaction.

The inQubi Companion App is accessible across a wide range of digital devices, ensuring users can connect with their virtual pets at their convenience, whether on desktops, mobile phones, or tablets.

Joshua Tan, Co-Founder and CEO of inQubi, states, “We’re eagerly anticipating the evolution of inQubi. As we approach Q4 2023, marking our launch and the introduction of our initial batch of virtual pets, we’re highly optimistic about what lies ahead.”

In line with this optimism, inQubi is gearing up for its next phase, scheduled for release in the first half of 2024. This phase promises to deliver an array of robust features, including pet evolution, enhanced augmented reality functions, explorations for pets, social features, and multiplayer mini-games.

Further ahead, inQubi has ambitious plans to merge the digital realm with the tangible world, incorporating augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality technologies. This visionary approach will enable users to interact with their virtual pets in diverse digital landscapes, from everyday environments to fully immersive worlds. The future of virtual pet companionship is set to be an exciting one with inQubi.

inQubi will be available on the Google Play and Apple App stores. For more details, please visit inQubi.com.

Hashtag: #inQubi #VirtualPet #PetSimulation




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

inQubi

inQubi is a virtual pet app, designed with a focus on interoperability in the dynamic world of app gaming. With a thoughtful selection of characters and smooth functionality, the development team hopes to offer players a digital companion that’s both delightful and engaging.

Designed with users of all ages in mind, inQubi and its Companion App for mobile and desktop platforms serve as stepping stones. We’re excited about the potential, as we look to integrate technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Reality, and Augmented Reality in our upcoming endeavours. There’s much more on the horizon for inQubi.

The Next Evolution of Blockchain Hybrid Infrastructure THXNET. Launches its Main-net To Support Its Web3-as-a-Service Offerings.

TOKYO, JAPAN – Media OutReach – 10 November 2023 – In a major leap for the digital age, THXLAB proudly announces the public launch of THXNET. main-net going live. THXNET. is a ground-breaking Web3 and blockchain hybrid infrastructure system that focuses to onboard the next billion users to Web3 through its Web3-as-a-Service (Web3-aaS) offerings. As the world stands at the intersection of Web2.0 and Web3, THXNET.’s mission is to create a seamless and user-friendly and developer-friendly transition, positioning itself as a pioneering force in the realm of Web3.

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Unveiling THXNET.’s Core Proposition

At the heart of THXNET. is the revolutionary Web3-as-a-Service (Web3aaS). Powered by theadvanced Substrate framework and expertly crafted by THXLAB, THXNET. offers a dedicated Layer 1 (L1) infrastructure bolstered by the robust Layer 0 (L0) Rootchain.

THXNET.’s Web3aaS spans a comprehensive range of solutions from the Blockchain base (L0/L1) to application and service support. With a unique capability to support fiat-based payments, the platform addresses the transactional needs of a diverse clientele. Notably, in June 2023, THXNET launched its main-net, featuring two active L1 chains, already establishing multiple use-cases predominantly in Japan. THXNET. is fully geared to expand its clientele and use-cases beyond Japan, starting with the other Asian markets.

“Web3 technology holds the promise of a more decentralized, secure, and user-centric online world. With THXNET, we’re not just delivering technology, we’re shaping the future of the internet,” said Aro Kondo, Co-Founder and CEO of THXLAB & THXNET.

Why THXNET Stands Apart

With its Layer 1 Leafchains & Layer 0 Rootchain Advantage, THXNET’s foundational architecture enables:

  • Scalability: Efficiently managing a vast transaction volume.
  • Security: Implementing robust security measures.
  • Decentralization: Ensuring distributed control for greater transparency.
  • Interoperability: Facilitating smooth interactions with other chains and systems.


Unique Value Proposition:
THXNET’s distinctive architecture not only enables dApp development but empowers existing Web2.0 platforms to transition into a Web3 environment. By bridging the Web2.0 and Web3 ecosystems, THXNET provides:

  • A holistic Web3 solution spanning protocol to application layers.
  • A platform for Web2.0 entities to swiftly establish their Web3 services.
  • Market Dynamics and Opportunities

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Aro remarked, “THXNET is our answer to the challenge of making Web3 easily accessible. The fusion of Web2.0 and Web3 is now not just a concept, but a working model. Our blockchain infrastructure is a more practical solution to drive mass adoption of Web3”

By 2025, forecasts suggest Japan’s blockchain-based DX market will breach $6 billion. With its expansive suite of solutions, THXNET aspires to carve out a substantial market share. Beyond Japan, THXNEX’s vision reaches across Asia, targeting tech hubs in South Korea, Singapore, China, India, and emerging Southeast Asian markets.

Navigating a Competitive Landscape

While the Web3 space is crowded with entities like Stratos, Astar Network, Ethereum 2.0, and Polkadot, THXNET differentiates itself through its distinctive architecture, fiat payment support, and an aggressive pan-Asian growth strategy. THXNET will also be offering a ground-breaking mobile application platform for developers to explore, connect, create, build and discover the entire THXNET ecosystem including its blockchain infrastructure, documentations, APIs and other offerings all hosted in one single app. The app is poised to launch at the end of November this year and more info will be released on its version 1 launch.

As a beacon of Web3’s potential, THXNET, supported by THXLAB, is poised to usher in a new era, transforming the digital landscape towards greater decentralization, security, and efficiency.

For more info on THXNET., please visit website and socials at:
Website: https://thxnet.org/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/THXNET_WEB3aaS
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/THXLAB/

Hashtag: #thxnet #asiatokenfund

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

About THXNEt

At THXNEX, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of Web3 technology, offering a comprehensive suite of services tailored to meet the demands of the modern digital landscape. Our core proposition revolves around the concept of Web3-as-a-Service (Web3aaS), embodying the next evolution in online experiences. Central to our offering is a dedicated Layer 1 (L1) infrastructure, meticulously facilitated by the robust THXNET Layer 0 (L0) Rootchain. This foundation is powered by the cutting-edge Substrate framework, fine-tuned to perfection by the experts at THXLAB.

BingX Publish Top Oracle Crypto Coins November 2023 Featuring TRB and LINK

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 9 November 2023 – In its latest initiative to keep market participants informed, BingX has released a timely guide detailing the top oracle tokens for November 2023. This release is part of BingX’s ongoing commitment to provide the cryptocurrency community with up-to-date, insightful analyses on market trends and token performance.

Understanding the critical role of real-time data in blockchain applications, BingX’s guide emphasizes the importance of decentralized oracle solutions. These solutions are essential for the secure and deterministic operation of smart contracts, which are integral to the blockchain ecosystem.

Highlighting Leaders and Innovators in Oracle Space

The guide by BingX showcases the leading oracle tokens, each contributing uniquely to blockchain’s ability to interact with external data:
  • Chainlink (LINK): A pioneer in decentralized oracles, Chainlink facilitates secure data access for blockchains.
  • Band Protocol (BAND): Termed as the scalable alternative, Band Protocol connects smart contracts with real-world data on the Cosmos network.
  • Tellor Tributes (TRB): Tellor provides an economical solution for Ethereum smart contracts to access external data, with frequent updates.
  • API3 (API3): API3 revolutionizes data integration for Web3, offering direct connections between dApps and data providers for enhanced security and transparency.

Spotlight on Emerging Oracle Tokens

BingX’s guide also casts light on emerging oracle tokens that are showing promising growth and potential:
  • WINKLink: This token is making strides by enabling the integration of centralized data into TRON’s blockchain, thus broadening the scope of dApps.

Hashtag: #bingx #cryptoexchange

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

About BingX

BingX is a leading cryptocurrency exchange offering spot, derivatives, grid, and copy trading services to users in over 100 countries and regions worldwide. With a user base of over 5 million, BingX facilitates connections between users, expert traders, and the platform itself in a secure and innovative manner. Buy on BingX.

The 8wonder Winter Festival reveals 11 hit songs and Viet Nam’s top artists performing with Maroon 5

PHU QUOC, VIETNAM Media OutReach – 9 November 2023 8Wonder Winter Festival, co-organized by VinFast and VinWonders, today announces that 8Wonder Winter Festival will showcase a unique integrated visual art stage setup to support Maroon 5 for the highly anticipated show. This news comes as 8Wonder Winter Festival exclusively reveals Maroon 5 will play a full set that includes 11 of their record-breaking hits will feature in Phu Quoc. Vinpearl is also delighted to announce the top Vietnamese artists performing at the festival this year.

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When taking the stage on December 16 in Phu Quoc, Maroon 5 will play a full setlist for more than 75 minutes, including global hits like This Love, Moves Like Jagger, One More Night, Sugar, Don’t Wanna Know, Sunday Morning, Girls Like You, Memories, Animals, Maps, She Will Be Loved, and more.

Supporting Maroon 5 will be contemporary Vietnamese (Vbiz) stars, including Toc Tien, Justatee, Phuong Ly, Double 2T, Gray D and DJ 2Pillz. Every performance at the 8Wonder Winter Festival ranging from Rap, R&B, Pop, Rock and Soul will offer a lively, colourful and spontaneous musical atmosphere that will captivate 12,000 spectators with “Infinity Wonder.”

In addition to this feast of musical talent, the visual stage concept of the 8Wonder Winter Festival 2023 will also add to the creative setting. The stage at Tropicana Square will provide an integrated visual art installation to augment and elevate each musical act.

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Việt Nam’s own brand of contemporary music festival is ready to take the spotlight and become globally recognised as it combines the “world pop-rock monument” with A-list artists of the Vietnamese music scene.

In addition to this, the “Twilight till First Light” theme offers the audience hundreds of unique “festivals within a festival” experiences, continuing from dusk to dawn. From 3pm on December 16, visitors can participate in festive activities at the dedicated dining and entertainment complex, Grand World. These activities include a street food festival, the Wake Up Santa Parade, fire dancing and street circus performances, festival-themed face painting and many more. Also, following the climax of 8Wonder are a series of after-party activities: the Gondola aristocratic boat race festival, Wake Up Camping by the beach, the Corona-by-night after-party and an immersive laser light show at the Love Lake.

Supporting this festive season, visitors can also check in with a range of lively activities at Phu Quoc United Center: an 8Wonder-themed mermaid show, the Wonder Eco Christmas featuring amusing parades, the Waikiki Water Battle with water games, vibrant DJ music, or exploring the showcase zone, experiencing electric cars and receiving surprising gifts.

By featuring a world-class immersive “festival of festivals” musical journey that transcends time and space, the 8Wonder Winter Festival will be a key catalyst in elevating Phu Quoc United Center and Phu Quoc island as the “most sought-after festive destination” on the world tourism map.

***

Limited tickets are available now for the 8Wonder Winter Festival in Phu Quoc.
The Wake Up Festival will be held from December 9, 2023 to January 7, 2024, with the 8Wonder Winter Festival taking place on December 16, 2023.
8Wonder Winter Festival tickets are now officially on sale, with six ticket categories, from General Admission to VIP and SVIP, starting at $56 each. Each ticket holder is entitled to one of these exclusive Phu Quoc United Center’s experiences:
(1) 01 entry to Teddy Bear House (for all ticket categories)
(2) 01 entry to VinWonders or Vinpearl Safari, culinary delights, etc., for VIP, SVIP tickets.
Combo packages are also available, starting at only US$184 per room, which include 8Wonder music festival tickets and a 3-day, 2-night stay for 2 people at Vinpearl in Phu Quoc. Visitors purchasing these packages will have further stay benefits, such as:
(1) 50% discount for VinWonders and Vinpearl Safari tickets (for use on December 16, 2023)
(2) 20% discount on Vinpearl hotel spa services
(3) 33% discount on Vinpearl golf services
(4) 15% discount on Vinpearl dining
For 8Wonder ticket booking, please visit: www.vinwonders.com or VinWonders mobile app.

For Vinpearl travel packages, please visit: www.vinpearl.com or MyVinpearl mobile app.

For further information about 8Wonder, please visit: www.8thwonder.vn

Hashtag: #8wonderWinterFestival #Vinpeal #Vingroup

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

American Express Expands Singapore Decision Science Center of Excellence

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 9 November 2023 – American Express today announced it is deepening its investment in artificial intelligence with the expansion of the Singapore Decision Science Center of Excellence (CoE). The CoE will now extend beyond credit decisioning and fraud prevention use cases to focus on data science applications in the areas of marketing and servicing model development and production, utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). As part of the expansion, the CoE will also create a generative AI Research & Development practice focused on new AI applications for servicing, risk, and technology.

From left to right: Marlin Brown, Singapore Country Manager, American Express, Anna Marrs, Group President, Global Commercial Services and Credit & Fraud Risk, American Express, Jacqueline Poh, Managing Director, Singapore Economic Development Board, Chao Yuan, Executive Vice President, Decision Science & Data Strategy, American Express, Philbert Gomez, Vice President and Head, Digital Industry Singapore, Changbin Wang, Managing Director, Singapore Decision Science Center of Excellence, American Express.

From left to right: Marlin Brown, Singapore Country Manager, American Express, Anna Marrs, Group President, Global Commercial Services and Credit & Fraud Risk, American Express, Jacqueline Poh, Managing Director, Singapore Economic Development Board, Chao Yuan, Executive Vice President, Decision Science & Data Strategy, American Express, Philbert Gomez, Vice President and Head, Digital Industry Singapore, Changbin Wang, Managing Director, Singapore Decision Science Center of Excellence, American Express.

“American Express was an early adopter of AI, recognizing its ability to make a transformative impact on various aspects of our business. The Singapore Decision Science Center of Excellence expanded our global data science and technology capabilities, allowing us to maintain our world-class credit and fraud risk results and continue on our journey of AI innovation,” said Anna Marrs, Group President, Global Commercial Services and Credit & Fraud Risk. “In the next phase of the Center of Excellence, we will bring this same level of innovation to marketing and servicing use cases to deliver on our vision of providing the best customer experience every day.”

“EDB supports the development of innovative generative AI applications in businesses in order to improve their productivity and products. We are delighted to partner American Express as it expands its Decision Science Centre of Excellence which will develop novel generative AI tools to serve its global customer base,” said Jacqueline Poh, Managing Director, Singapore Economic Development Board.
Hashtag: #AmericanExpress

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

American Express

American Express is a globally integrated payments company, providing customers with access to products, insights and experiences that enrich lives and build business success. Learn more at and connect with us on , , , , and .

Key links to products, services and corporate sustainability information: , , , , , , , , , , , , and .

GSM launched electric taxi service in Laos, aiming to promote green mobility in Southeast Asia

VIENTIANE, LAOS – Media OutReach – 9 November 2023 – Vietnam’s Green and Smart Mobility JSC. (GSM) has launched its pure electric taxi service in Vientiane, Laos, under the brand name “Xanh SM”. Expanding into the first foreign market marks a step further in GSM’s “Go Green Global” strategy to establish itself as an international electric mobility services provider and promote the adoption of green mobility beyond borders.

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Opening ceremony of Xanh SM electric taxi in Laos.

Xanh SM Laos embraces the customer-centric approach of its Vietnamese counterpart and pledges to provide eco-friendly transportation services. The company commits to providing customers with 100% pure electric vehicles and 5-star service standards including premium vehicle quality, and a dedicated team of professional drivers that contribute to enhancing the standard of passenger transportation services in the “Land of a Million Elephants”.

Starting from November 9, 2023, residents of Vientiane and international tourists visiting Laos will have a convenient way to book taxi services through the Xanh SM Laos application. This application can be easily downloaded from the App Store and Play Store. In addition, customers will still have the option to hail taxis directly from the streets. Every trip’s route and fare information will be made transparently available to ensure clarity and convenience.

Initially, Xanh SM Laos will employ the VinFast VF 5 Plus electric cars in their signature cyan color for its taxi fleet. Currently, the company is operating primarily in Vientiane Capital. The plan is to increase the fleet to 1,000 vehicles and expand to other popular destinations like the tourism town of Vang Vieng (Vientiane), as well as other provinces and cities such as Luang Prabang, Savannakhet, and Champasak in the coming phases.

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Xanh SM electric taxi on the roads of Laos.

Xanh SM Laos is planning to expand its operations throughout the country and is expected to create thousands of new job opportunities for local residents. These opportunities offer attractive career development prospects and come without requiring initial capital investment while providing optimal income and professional training. In particular, Green SM drivers will be oriented to become “green ambassadors” that directly connect the brand with customers and contribute to enhancing Laos’ eco-friendly image.

In addition to providing high-quality, zero-emission transportation services, GSM aims to stimulate the widespread of electric vehicles by developing a green mobility services ecosystem. This includes electric vehicle leases, and advanced services such as package car rental, travel, and personalized car rental. By adopting this holistic approach, GSM works towards leveraging the overall experience of green transportation and making electric mobility accessible to everyone.

Mr. Nguyen Van Thanh Global CEO of GSM said: Launching Xanh SM Laos is a special milestone that marks the beginning of GSM’s global expansion journey. We will keep exploring and innovating to create a unique fusion of local culture with international service standards that promises to deliver an exceptional experience to local residents as well as international visitors in Laos. The triumphant Xanh SM Laos will be a significant driving force behind GSM’s global expansion. Working alongside VinFast, GSM is determined to push forward eco-friendly mobility worldwide, paving the way for a better and more sustainable future for all.”

In April 2023, GSM was established and launched in Vietnam as the world’s first multi-platform green transportation model. It operates with a fleet of 100% electric vehicles. Within just 6 months of its operation, GSM has experienced extraordinary growth, providing over 6 million rides, and earning high compliments from both ultimate consumers and transportation companies.

GSM is set to expand quickly to other Southeast Asian countries following its success in Laos. The company’s ability to offer its ride-hailing services through multiple platforms – including the app, call center, and on-the-road bookings – provides it with a significant competitive advantage both regionally and internationally. These core competencies will be crucial as GSM pursues its “Go Green Global” strategy, charting a course to become the one of fastest-growing international ride-hailing service providers in the region.

Customers can find more information about Xanh SM electric taxis in Laos via the website: https://www.xanhsm.com/laos/ or download the Xanh SM Laos app via the following links:

Hashtag: #VinFast

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

Sunfun Info Unveils “KOFO”, a “Focusing” App, to Foster Earth Conservation in Collaboration with Subsidiaries, Daiken Bio., and Australian Firefighters

10 million trees are expected to be planted in 10 years to realize forest restoration.

BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA – Media OutReach – 9 November 2023 – Hailing from Taiwan, Sunfun Info Co., Ltd., (Stock Code: 5278) the company primarily known for its cloud-based dating service “iPair” and its foray into the biomedical industry with the establishment of “Daiken Bio.,” has expanded its horizons once again. This time, it has ventured into the field of environmental sustainability by launching the tool-based app, “KOFO”. Focusing on the core concept of tree planting upon user downloads, “KOFO” echoes and implements the goal of achieving global net-zero carbon emissions and restoring forest resources. “KOFO” invites users to stay focused on the present while participating in forest restoration. KOFO joins forces with global non-profit organizations such as Eden Reforestation Projects, Trees for the Future, Plant For the Planet to plant trees. Additionally, it sponsors Carbon Positive Australia and One Tree Planted, as well as supports Koala Conservation Australia, an organization dedicated to koala conservation.

Sunfun Info Launches “KOFO” App To save the Earth together by “Focus” with the subsidiaries, Daiken Bio., and Australian Firefighters.
Sunfun Info Launches “KOFO” App To save the Earth together by “Focus” with the subsidiaries, Daiken Bio., and Australian Firefighters.

The profound impact of climate change on the planet and the crucial link between forests and climate change are evident. Prior to the launch of the “KOFO” app, it had already taken the lead by planting over 30,000 trees for Earth’s benefit. It is expected to reach the goal of planting tens of millions of trees within the next 10 years. Furthermore, “KOFO” will focus on the conservation of endangered wildlife species and promote the sustainable development of the global ecosystem.

Sunfun Info Co., Ltd.’s CEO, Calvin, Chia-Ming Chang, drew inspiration from the book “Six Degrees”, recognizing the pivotal role forests play in climate change and firmly believes that sustainability is not only a slogan. “The birth of ‘KOFO’ embodies our vision, aiming to encourage consumers to ‘Stay Focused, then Save the Earth’ together.”

10 million trees are expected to be planted in 10 years to realize forest restoration.
10 million trees are expected to be planted in 10 years to realize forest restoration.

The green app “KOFO” hopes to make a difference by calling on the world to plant trees for the Earth’s benefit. At the press conference for the launch of “KOFO” app, Australian firefighters, and the representative of the state of Queensland, Australia, stationed in Taiwan, Patrick Hafenstein, were also invited to endorse the cause. “Australia is one of the countries suffering from extreme climate change. Therefore, we are greatly excited about the launch of the “KOFO” app and look forward to the positive impact it will bring to the ecological environment. We are eager to participate in reforestation efforts and sustainable development.”

Hashtag: #SunfunInfo #koalaforest #kofo #australia

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

About Sunfun Info Co., Ltd.

Founded in 2002, Sunfun Info Co., Ltd. mainly develops online dating services, its products include the iPair Live Dating App, SweetRing Wedding Dating App, weTouch Fashion Dating, and many other Apps, and the iPair website, Sunfun Info Co., Ltd. was listed on the counter in 2013, and the current product market is locked in Taiwan, Hong Kong, the U.S., Mexico, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, and other countries, and the market for Sunfun Info Co., Ltd. ‘s products have continued to grow. In 2018, adhering to the original intention of taking care of their health and that of their families, they founded Daiken Bio., which is committed to researching and developing safe, secure, and effective health food products, with high quality and good reputation. In 2022, Daiken Bio. received 7 international gold awards from the World Quality Assessment.

About “KOFO” App

KOFO is a gaming tool App that helps you to focus with a special tomato clock experience! KOFO will plant a real tree on Earth when users first download it. Users can set their focus time in the app to accomplish their goals and plant virtual trees on the phone at the same time. This allows users to focus on their work, study, or sports while planting trees in KOFO’s virtual forest, symbolizing their commitment and dedication to the protection of nature. Use the KOFO App to make your focus more valuable and continue to add more greenery to the world through focusing, so let’s “Stay Focused, then Save the Earth” now.

Download KOFO Here:

International Donors, Local Officials Unite to Accelerate UXO Removal Efforts in Laos

A mortar shell. ( Photo/MAG UXO Visitor Information Centre, Lao PDR).

International donors and local officials pledged to step up efforts to remove the last bombs in Laos while the unexploded ordnance (UXO) clearance operation is still underway.

In a visit to Xieng Khouang Province on 8 November, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Phoxay Khaykhamphithoune led a group of foreign contributors from Canada, Japan, South Korea, New Zealand, and the United States, to an inspection of clearance-project sites across the region.

The delegation also met with provincial authorities to monitor disposal mechanisms in targeted villages.

Only a few days earlier, in Phaxai district, Xieng Khouang, Lar was having a normal day when she stepped dangerously close to a BLU-26 bomb, the Mines Advisory Group (MAG) UXO Visitor Information Centre reported.

Stories like Lar’s are not uncommon across the province and beyond, where bombs continue to explode half a century after the war ended.

Laos is the world’s most heavily bombed country per capita. With two million tons of cluster bombs dropped on Laos during the second Indochina War (1964-1973), bombs are still on the country’s soil and seriously threatening the lives of people in rural villages.

Xieng Khouang Province has cleared over 18,000 hectares of land and destroyed nearly 600,000 UXO items. Today, 42 million UXO units remain in the area.

However, thanks to continuous efforts from the Lao government and international supporters, the country has witnessed remarkable improvement in UXO clearance over the past decade.

“There have been a number of improvements made in the sector to ensure efficient delivery of land release and risk education across the country,” said Eli Mechanic, Country Director, MAG Laos. 

The sector is also working actively with the National Regulatory Authority to continuously improve standards of operations, according to Eli. In 2022, Laos reached the land clearance target envisaged in the country’s Convention on Cluster Munitions.

Eli believes this success was also possible because of the increase in funding from both private donors and foreign countries, including the US, UK, and Norway.

“Obama pledged to increase funding for the UXO sector in Laos when he visited in September 2016. At the time, he pledged USD 90 million over a 3-year period, which was double what the sector was receiving in 2015,” he said.

In Laos, clearance is done manually using a systematic approach to ensure every inch of land is covered, Eli explained to The Laotian Times. Lanes are marked on the ground with ropes, and metal detectors are used to find unexploded bombs hidden beneath the surface. 

“It is a slow process, as all signals from the detector must be carefully investigated and all items safely demolished at the end of the working day,” he said.

However, the nation is prepared to advance in its efforts to get rid of UXOs thanks to consistent cooperation between the government, local communities, and international players.