The Vientiane People’s Council has called for compensation for residents who lost land or property due to the construction of the 51.1-hectare Thanaleng Dry Port and Vientiane Logistics Park.
Generali Hong Kong Garnered Two Awards at the Insurance Asia Awards 2024

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 July 2024 – Generali Hong Kong has achieved significant recognition at the Insurance Asia Awards 2024, receiving two prestigious awards that underscore its excellence in social media engagement and product innovation.
The two awards received by Generali Hong Kong include:
- Social Media Initiative of the Year
- New Insurance Product of the Year
The award recognizes Generali Hong Kong’s exceptional performance and strategic approach to its social media channels, which have proven to be highly effective in engaging with its target audience, building brand awareness, and driving business growth. Over the past year, the company has consistently delivered a strong social media presence that has set it apart through creative and engaging content. Through a comprehensive content strategy that combines visually-appealing graphics, thought-provoking insights resonating to the daily lives and needs of the public, and genuine customer interactions, Generali Hong Kong has successfully cultivated a loyal and engaged following across multiple platforms, deeply building its brand presence. Additionally, it underscores our dedication to developing innovative and comprehensive whole of life critical illness insurance products that meet the evolving needs of our customers.

Ms. Ady Law, Chief Distribution and Marketing Officer of Generali Hong Kong, said, “We are honored to receive the Social Media Initiative of the Year award. This recognition reflects our commitment to leveraging digital platforms to connect with our customer and community in impactful and meaningful ways. Our social media strategy is designed to engage and support our customers, ensuring we stay connected and responsive to their needs. Recognizing the pivotal role of digital marketing, we have been diligently investing resources to establish a comprehensive online platform. Our objective is to deliver the most timely and relevant information to the public, thereby cultivating a deeply loyal brand image.
Mr. Ronald Tse, Chief Actuary and Chief Product Officer of Generali Hong Kong, said, “Receiving the New Insurance Product of the Year award is a testament to our team’s dedication to innovation and our commitment to being a Lifetime Partner to our customers. We are committed to offering innovative and comprehensive protection against critical illnesses, providing our customers with financial security and peace of mind.”
The Insurance Asia Awards annually recognize insurance companies across Asia that demonstrate outstanding performance and innovation. These awards acknowledge companies that go beyond the ordinary and significantly influence the lives of their customers with exceptional insurance products, services, and solutions.
Hashtag: #GeneraliHongKong
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Generali Hong Kong
In 1981, Assicurazioni Generali S.p.A. was first registered as an authorised insurer in Hong Kong, with the business extending into the life insurance sector in 2016 with Generali Life (Hong Kong) Limited. With a combination of local knowledge and Generali Group’s global expertise, we develop unique and innovative life insurance, general insurance, specialty insurance, and employee benefits solutions to meet the needs of our customers.
Generali Group
Generali is one of the largest global insurance and asset management providers. Established in 1831, it is present in over 50 countries in the world, with a total premium income of € 82.5 billion in 2023. With around 82,000 employees serving 70 million customers, the Group has a leading position in Europe and a growing presence in Asia and Latin America. At the heart of Generali’s strategy is its Lifetime Partner commitment to customers, achieved through innovative and personalised solutions, best-in-class customer experience and its digitalised global distribution capabilities. The Group has fully embedded sustainability into all strategic choices, with the aim to create value for all stakeholders while building a fairer and more resilient society.
AVIS Singapore Refines Car Rental Standards
AVIS Singapore sets new standards in car rentals, aiming to improve service quality and customer satisfaction.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 July 2024 – AVIS Singapore, part of the global mobility solutions provider, Avis Budget Group, announces significant enhancements to its car rental services, aiming to improve the customer experience and establish new benchmarks within the industry.

Effective immediately, it is upgrading its service offerings to increase convenience and reliability for both short-term and long-term clients. This initiative demonstrates AVIS’ dedication to quality and customer satisfaction and emphasizes its commitment to providing affordable and reliable vehicle rentals in Singapore’s competitive automotive sector.
Service Enhancements
AVIS Singapore’s latest offerings address key customer pain points by ensuring vehicle cleanliness, top-notch maintenance, rigorous safety standards, and transparent pricing for its three pillars of service — short-term car rentals, long-term car leasing, and chauffeur drive services. The company also maintains an updated fleet of vehicles reserved exclusively for personal hire, all subjected to strict maintenance protocols.
Further driven by customer feedback, AVIS has implemented substantial enhancements to its fleet and operational standards. These initiatives are not merely improvements but are aimed at setting new industry benchmarks for customer experience and service excellence.
Benefits for Loyal Customers
Members of Avis Preferred, AVIS’ loyalty programme, will continue to enjoy exclusive benefits, both locally and globally, across 180 countries. For long-term lease clients, AVIS ensures hassle-free mobility with comprehensive coverage, including maintenance, breakdown assistance, and replacement vehicles. New sign-ups for long-term leases are also eligible for a limited-time offer: a promotional $500 voucher redeemable at over 50 renowned establishments.
Strategic Partnerships and Accessibility
Reinforcing its market leadership, AVIS Singapore has established strategic partnerships with major credit card companies like American Express, Mastercard, and Visa to provide Avis Preferred customers with exclusive discounts and benefits, enhancing the value they receive and solidifying AVIS Singapore’s status as a leader in the automotive rental industry. AVIS also maintains convenient locations for car rental, including at Changi Airport Terminals 2 and 3 and in the central business district.
For more information, please visit AVIS Singapore’s website.
Hashtag: #AVISSingapore
https://www.avis.com.sg/
https://sg.linkedin.com/company/avissingapore
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
AVIS Singapore
AVIS Singapore, part of Avis Budget Group since 1961, leads the local car rental market. Located strategically at Changi Airport (Terminals 2 and 3) and Havelock Road, AVIS offers reliable rental solutions. As a member of the globally recognised Avis Budget Group — operating in 180 countries with over $12B in revenue — AVIS Singapore embodies the group’s commitment to innovation, customer focus, and sustainable mobility.
PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Company Limited Secures AA+ TRIS Rating; Sets Stage for Global Expansion and Reinforces Market Leadership with PTT Lubricants Brand
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 July 2024 – PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Company Limited (OR), a key player within the PTT Group and a leader in Thailand’s oil retail sector, proudly announces the reaffirmation of its “AA+” credit rating by TRIS Rating Co., Ltd., Thailand’s premier credit rating agency. This marks the second consecutive year OR has achieved this high rating, which comes with a “Stable” outlook. This recognition underscores the company’s exceptional operational performance and strong financial health, both critical as it continues to expand its market presence globally.

Continued Excellence in the Thai Oil Retail Market
Mr. Disathat Panyarachun, Chief Executive Officer of OR, expressed his pride in the company’s ongoing leadership in distributing both retail oil and commercial petroleum products across Thailand. “This sustained top-tier rating from TRIS not only highlights our robust financial policies but also reinforces our pivotal role within the PTT Group in efficiently distributing petroleum products,” said Mr. Panyarachun.
Strengthening Market Leadership with PTT Lubricants
As the manufacturer and distributor of PTT Lubricants for over three decades, OR has secured the leading market share in Thailand. The company is dedicated to innovation under the guiding principle of “The Moving Innovation,” focusing on creating advanced product formulas for automotive and industrial applications and forming OEM partnerships with various car manufacturers.
“Our commitment to continuous improvement in product quality and innovation is designed to meet the changing needs of our customers,” Mr. Panyarachun added. OR’s state-of-the-art Automated Lubricants Distribution Center, with a yearly capacity of 260 million liters, supports efficient market expansion both in Thailand and internationally. The company also enhances its competitive edge by offering extensive product knowledge training and after-sales services to both consumers and distributors.
Global Expansion and Recognition
PTT Lubricants has successfully extended its reach beyond domestic markets, exporting to over 40 countries across the AEC, Asia, Africa, and Europe. This international presence underscores the brand’s quality and reliability, affirming its status as a trusted global brand. “Our international success is a testament to the global competitiveness of PTT Lubricants. We continue to focus on expanding our market presence and meeting the sophisticated needs of consumers worldwide,” stated Mr. Panyarachun. The expansion strategy includes leveraging brands like Café Amazon and PTT Station alongside PTT Lubricants to enhance its market presence globally.
PTT Lubricants Accelerates Market Influence Across Southeast Asia and Taiwan
Indonesia emerges as a pivotal market for PTT Lubricants, fueled by its fast-growing automotive sector, economic progress, and demographic expansion. PTT Lubricants has partnered with PT Sumber Suwarna Unisindo, a seasoned distributor renowned for its deep expertise in the lubricant industry, covering both automotive and industrial applications. This collaboration ensures the delivery of superior quality products complemented by exceptional after-sales services to Indonesian consumers. More details can be found at pttlubricants.co.id
In the Philippines, the consistent upward trajectory in the demand for automotive and industrial lubricants solidifies the country’s importance to PTT Lubricants. Distribution is expertly handled by PTT Philippines Corporation (PTTPC), a direct subsidiary of OR, which also diversifies its portfolio with ventures like PTT Station fuel stations and Café Amazon coffee shops. Further information is available at pttphilippines.com
Malaysia‘s strategic position as a trade and investment nucleus in ASEAN, coupled with booming automotive and transportation sectors, makes it a key market for PTT Lubricants. Distribution channels are robust, with four main agents including TS Oil Pro Plt. and Big Essential Sdn. Bhd. in West Malaysia, and Efuel Service Sdn. and Golden Automotive Trading Sdn. Bhd. in East Malaysia, ensuring comprehensive market coverage. More details are available on the Facebook Fan page: PTT Lubricants Malaysia
Taiwan has seen over 14 years of PTT Lubricants’ presence, where it has solidified its market position through its distributor, Dynamax Petrochemical Ltd. The focus on high-quality motorcycle and gasoline products, along with strategic marketing efforts, has built a reputable image among high-end clients, including European luxury car owners and racing enthusiasts. Discover more at pttortw.com
Each of these markets plays a crucial role in PTT Lubricants’ strategy to deepen its international footprint, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction.
Hashtag: #PTTOilandRetailBusiness #OR #PTTLubricants
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Company Limited (OR)
PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Company Limited (OR), a cornerstone of the PTT Group (BKK:PTT), champions a dynamic fusion of energy and retail to drive inclusive growth. OR is ardently committed to its revolutionary SDG framework—Small, Diversified, and Green. Embracing this ethos, OR uplifts communities, cultivates expansive business opportunities, and spearheads sustainability efforts with ambitious goals of achieving carbon neutrality by 2030 and net zero emissions by 2050. Through this dynamic framework, OR is setting new standards for sustainability and inclusivity in the industry.
Website: www.pttor.com
Easier for Asia Pacific SMEs to go global with DHL Express digital tools

- DHL Express’s digital tools are available to equip small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with knowledge and expertise to navigate the global marketplace from planning to aftersales
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 July 2024 – DHL Express is empowering small and medium enterprises (SMEs) with a suite of digital tools to expand their footprint, and increase international trade and shipping activities. These digital tools enable resource-constrained SMEs to better manage cross-border shipping logistics as they import and export goods and products from multiple sources and locations.

Evidence from the DHL Global Connectedness Report shows companies continue to have an appetite for international expansion. Globalization reached a record high in 2022, and most international flows are taking place over stable or longer distances. In ASEAN and Greater China, four in five businesses want to expand overseas, according to a study by UOB Group.
However, SMEs often face significant challenges in traversing the complexities of international trade. For instance, intricate customs processes, insufficient knowledge about exporting and international trade regulations, as well as a lack of internal staffing and financial resources significantly hinder their ability to enter global markets.
“We pride ourselves on being the provider of choice for all, including SMEs which form the backbone of many economies,” said Yung C. Ooi, Senior Vice President for Commercial – Asia Pacific, DHL Express. “In Asia Pacific, SMEs make up over 97% of all businesses, and we have heard from many of our customers that they face various challenges when selling globally. By providing SMEs with the tools and resources they need to easily trade and ship internationally, we can help them boost their presence in a dynamic global marketplace. Our international footprint and committed team of logistics experts can help SMEs reach their full potential.”
Recognizing these hurdles, DHL Express has developed a comprehensive suite of digital solutions to help SMEs and startups quickly sign up for an account anytime, anywhere and start selling globally. From planning to aftersales, the tools help SMEs streamline cross-border trade processes, reduce costs, and enhance operational efficiency, ultimately driving growth and competitiveness on a global scale.
- My Global Trade Services (myGTS) is useful to sellers when they are still strategizing on where to do business. It is a free, online self-serve pre-shipment planner that companies can use to find the correct Harmonized System (HS) codes to classify products for shipping. Users can also obtain initial information on existing free trade agreements between the origin and destination country. This gives sellers a clear picture of the costs involved and enables them to price their products effectively.
- Once the business is ready, they can open a DHL account anytime, anywhere. Start-ups and individual shippers that do not have a credit history can also set up a DHL account.
- DHL Express Commerce integrates DHL Express shipping services with many e-commerce platforms to help businesses automate shipment creation and manage the fulfillment process. This is useful for sellers to ship multiple orders efficiently.
- As companies start shipping, having visibility of the shipment’s journey becomes useful as a preventive measure to minimize delays. The Track & Trace allows the shipper to track all shipments accurately across the DHL Express network. Moreover, On Demand Delivery empowers both the shipper and the recipient to customize their delivery preferences. This reduces the probability of undelivered shipments and improves customer experience.
- With DHL Pass, customers can use DHL online platforms with one login. Multi-factor authentication also provides customers with a seamless and secure digital experience. This is gradually being rolled out worldwide.
Other than digital tools, DHL Express is also focused on supporting small businesses to trade their goods internationally through the GoTrade program. By working with public sector partners to break down barriers and reduce red tape, DHL helps SMEs tap into the global marketplace. Moreover, DHL also organizes webinars and workshops to guide entrepreneurs on building an online business and understand the complexities of international shipping, such as customs processes. Across Asia Pacific, DHL Express has also formed alliances with several organizations, such as the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation, Asia Foundation, and Bayan Innovation Group, and organized workshops and webinars to help them become acquainted with trade regulations and reduce barriers to international trade.
Note to editor:
Please visit the DHL Logistics of Things to read other stories related to SMEs and how DHL has worked with them. Recently published:
Hashtag: #DHLExpress #Digitalization #SMEs #Ecommerce
https://group.dhl.com/en.html
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dhlexpress/posts/?feedView=all
https://x.com/dhlexpress
https://instagram.com/dhlexpress?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
DHL – The logistics company for the world
DHL is the leading global brand in the logistics industry. Our DHL divisions offer an unrivalled portfolio of logistics services ranging from national and international parcel delivery, e-commerce shipping and fulfillment solutions, international express, road, air and ocean transport to industrial supply chain management. With about 395,000 employees in more than 220 countries and territories worldwide, DHL connects people and businesses securely and reliably, enabling global sustainable trade flows. With specialized solutions for growth markets and industries including technology, life sciences and healthcare, engineering, manufacturing & energy, auto-mobility and retail, DHL is decisively positioned as “The logistics company for the world”.
DHL is part of DHL Group. The Group generated revenues of more than 81.8 billion euros in 2023. With sustainable business practices and a commitment to society and the environment, the Group makes a positive contribution to the world. DHL Group aims to achieve net-zero emissions logistics by 2050.
SleekFlow Appoints Silicon Valley Executive as CTO
Industry Veteran Brings Extensive Experience in Scaling Engineering Teams and Building Innovative Products

With over 20 years of tech leadership at Silicon Valley and tech entrepreneurial experience in AI and Big Data, Gao Lei brings a wealth of expertise in building and scaling engineering teams and developing and operating highly scalable and available infrastructure, and creating innovative products that drive business growth.
Prior to joining SleekFlow, Gao Lei served as the CTO at LinkedIn China, where he was responsible for building and scaling the engineering team to support the company’s rapid growth. During his tenure, he played a pivotal role in developing several award-winning products that have transformed how businesses engage with their customers.
“I am excited to join the SleekFlow team and contribute to the company’s continued success,” said Gao Lei. “SleekFlow has a strong reputation for delivering innovative customer engagement solutions. I look forward to leveraging my experience to enhance the platform further and drive even greater value for our platform users.”
“We are looking forward to welcoming Gao Lei to the SleekFlow team,” said Henson Tsai, Founder and CEO of SleekFlow. His record of successes in delivering transformative technology solutions makes him the ideal candidate to lead our future plans. We are confident that his leadership and vision will further strengthen SleekFlow’s position as a leading player in the customer engagement space.”
About Gao Lei
Gao holds a PhD in Data Replication/Distributed Systems from The University of Texas at Austin and has been recognized as a thought leader in the technology industry, having been featured in numerous industry publications and conferences.
Hashtag: #Saas #B2B #CommSaaS #AI #CustomerEngagement
https://sleekflow.io
https://www.linkedin.com/company/sleekflow/
https://x.com/sleekflow_io?lang=en
https://www.facebook.com/sleekflow.io/
https://www.instagram.com/sleekflow/?hl=en
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
SleekFlow
SleekFlow is the AI-powered Omnichannel Conversation Suite for customer engagement. The all-in-one SleekFlow platform creates seamless and personalized customer journeys across everyone’s go-to messaging channels, including WhatsApp, Instagram, live chat, and more.
SleekFlow is located in Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Indonesia, Brazil, and the UAE. In 2022, the startup secured an $8M USD Series A funding round led by Tiger Global, with participation from
AEF Greater Bay Area Fund and
Transcend Capital Partners.
FAM Solutions Introduces Innovative Meeting Booths to Redefine Modern Office Spaces

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 July 2024 – As offices adapt to the evolving needs of a post-pandemic workforce, FAM Solutions, a leading provider of innovative office furniture solutions, is proud to unveil its range of innovative meeting booths. Designed to address the growing demand for privacy and focused work environments in open-plan offices, these customisable office pods offer a blend of functionality, style, and modern technology.

Meeting the Evolving Needs of Modern Workspaces
The shift towards open-plan offices has transformed the way most businesses operate. While promoting collaboration and a sense of community, open spaces often lack the privacy needed for confidential calls, focused work, or video conferencing. FAM Solutions’ meeting booths bridge this gap by providing dedicated spaces for individuals or small teams to conduct meetings, brainstorm ideas, or work without distractions.
Unlike traditional meeting rooms, FAM Solutions’ office privacy booths are designed to optimise user experience and promote workplace productivity. Some of their key features include:
- LED Motion Sensor Technology: Automatically activates LED lights and the ventilation fan, ensuring energy efficiency when the booth is unoccupied.
- Power Integration: Each booth incorporates a 3-pin power socket and two USB ports, allowing users to seamlessly connect their devices.
- Superior Soundproofing: Utilising 50 kg/㎥ rock wool, these office pods provide soundproofing, minimising distractions and fostering focused work environments.
- Durability and Safety: The use of 10mm thick tempered and laminated glass ensures a safe and comfortable interior.
- Heavy-Duty Wheels: These enable easy relocation of the booths within the office space.
“As workplaces evolve to accommodate the changing needs of employees, our soundproof booths provide quiet, private spaces within the bustling office environment to promote productivity and well-being. With our meeting booths, we empower businesses to create harmonious workspaces where collaboration thrives and individual focus is respected,” shares Randy, Founder of FAM Solutions.
FAM Solutions Simplifies Integration with Free Site Visits
FAM Solutions is extending free site visits to the first 50 businesses submitting enquiries. This visit includes a comprehensive consultation to assess the business’s requirements and recommendations on the ideal booth size and location within the office space. Interested parties can quote the voucher code “FAMSITEVISIT” when contacting FAM Solutions to benefit from this complimentary service, valid for one year until July 2025 or until fully redeemed.
Hashtag: #FAMSolutions
https://www.famsolutions.com.sg/
https://www.facebook.com/FAMsolutionspteltd/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About FAM Solutions
FAM Solutions is Asia’s one-stop destination for ergonomic office furniture, offering a comprehensive range of products tailored to enhance workplace comfort and productivity. Specialising in ergonomic solutions, FAM Solutions is dedicated to providing innovative office furniture, including their latest offering: soundproof office pods. From ergonomic chairs to height-adjustable desks and meeting booths, every piece of office furniture is crafted to elevate the workplace experience.
Linkflow Capital: SME Loan Interest Rates Spike to 8.16% in 2023, Average Loan Quantum Drops 42%
Research by Linkflow Capital reveals significant tightening in SME financing accessibility in 2023
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 July 2024 – Linkflow Capital’s annual SME financing research shows a significant tightening of credit conditions for Singapore SMEs in 2023, with average loan quantum dropping 42% to $130,000 from $224,000 in 2021.
The study, based on data from 2,466 unique users of Linkflow Capital’s SME loan comparison portal, reveals that average business loan interest rates spiked to 8.16% in 2023, the highest in a decade and more than triple from the lowest rate of 2.50% recorded in 2020 during the pandemic.
“We are witnessing a marked shift in the SME financing environment, with the sharp rise in borrowing costs and decrease in loan quantum reflecting the challenging financing landscape SMEs faced in 2023,” said Benjamin Teo, spokesperson for Linkflow Capital. “This trend is driven by the unwinding of pandemic-era support measures and the broader high interest rate environment.”
Key findings from the 2023 survey include:
- Increased Borrowing Costs: The average SME business loan interest rate reached a high of 8.16% per annum in 2023.
- Reduced Loan Quantum: The average loan quantum approved decreased to $130,236 in 2023, continuing a downward trend from $184,345 in 2022.
- Revenue profile of users improved slightly: Increased proportion of users in higher revenue brackets. 50% of users reported annual revenue below $300K (down from 57% in 2022).
- Digital banks gaining traction: Digital banks’ share of loan origination within Linkflow’s platform rose to 17%, a more than 3-fold increase from 5% in 2022.
Looking ahead, Linkflow Capital expects interest rates to remain elevated throughout 2024, with a gradual decline potentially from mid-2025. The firm also anticipates the new digital banks to continue increasing their market share in SME lending, though unlikely to make a major dent to incumbent local banks’ loan books.
For detailed figures and data on Linkflow Capital’s research survey, visit https://smeloan.sg/blog/2023-sme-finance-accessibility-survey.
Hashtag: #LinkflowCapital
https://smeloan.sg
https://sg.linkedin.com/company/linkflow-capital-pte-ltd
https://x.com/LinkflowCapital
https://www.facebook.com/LinkflowCapital/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Linkflow Capital
Founded in 2012, Linkflow Capital is a SME loan consultancy firm providing business loan financing advisory to SMEs in Singapore with their extensive network of capital providers.
Website: smeloan.sg
Facebook: www.facebook.com/LinkflowCapital/
LinkedIn: sg.linkedin.com/company/linkflow-capital-pte-ltd