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Asian Development Bank Greenlights Funding for Enhanced Healthcare in Lao Border Provinces

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) greenlights USD 24.9 million for better healthcare in Lao border provinces. (Photo: Ariel Javellana/ADB)

In a bid to enhance access to quality healthcare services in Laos border provinces, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a financing package totaling USD 24.9 million.

NEFIN Secured HKD $22.15 Million Green Project Finance Loan From Bank SinoPac Hong Kong Branch


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 April 2024 – NEFIN, a leading carbon neutral solutions developer, successfully secured a HKD $22.15 Million green project finance loan from Bank SinoPac Hong Kong Branch, on March 5th, to support development of environmentally sustainable projects.

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This initial tranche of loan drawdown is in relations to two NEFIN Hong Kong SAR projects, in cooperation with a renowned international financial institution, and a global leader in logistics. Further drawdown is anticipated for NEFIN’s remaining Hong Kong SAR portfolio in the later part of this year.

With this funding, it not only enhances NEFIN’s financed project returns but provides funding to propel its future business growth, while helping MNCs and major corporations across APAC to achieve their sustainability targets.

This project financing follows NEFIN’s long standing relationship with Bank SinoPac and recent project financing in mainland China. NEFIN is looking forward to unlocking new renewable energy opportunities with Bank SinoPac in other regions.

Hashtag: #NEFIN

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

About NEFIN

NEFIN is a premium green independent power producer (IPP) offering bespoke carbon-neutral technologies & financing solutions in Asia Pacific. NEFIN, together with JV partner ACEN Corp., has worked with numerous multinational corporations and large local businesses, delivering renewable energy solutions at utility-scale, commercial and industrial levels. ACEN is listed in the Philippines (PSE: ACEN) and is part of the Ayala Corporation, one of the largest conglomerates in the Philippines, founded by the Ayala family in 1834.

Leveraging its diverse, cross-functional team, NEFIN provides comprehensive energy efficiency assessments and a full suite of services to evaluate the ESG impact and commercial viability of projects through innovative approaches to technology under its unified energy management platform.

With a mission of “Achieving Carbon Neutrality for You”, NEFIN is committed to the global climate goals and aims to accelerate the decarbonisation of our client portfolios. Recent advancements include NEFIN’s expansion to encompass battery storage solutions and the exploration of additional methods to offset carbon for our clients. NEFIN believes the future of the world is everyone’s responsibility and strives to redefine energy boundaries towards a sustainable future.

Please refer to NEFIN’s website for more information and follow us at .

About Bank SinoPac

Bank SinoPac is a wholly owned subsidiary of SinoPac Holdings Co., Ltd. (SinoPac Holdings) and was created in the merger of equals between Bank SinoPac under SinoPac Holdings and International Bank of Taipei on November 13, 2006.

Bank SinoPac provides the best financial services to its customers with a comprehensive business network and highly innovative product lines. The Bank is striving to realize the vision of “Together, a better life,” to make Bank SinoPac the leading brand among Chinese-speaking financial institutions. For further information, please visit .

Optism Unveils Revolutionary AI-Enhanced ASD Support Platform on World Autism Awareness Day in Hong Kong

Pioneering ASD Support Platform Debuts in Hong Kong on World Autism Awareness Day; Featuring AI-Driven Technology.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 April 2024 – In a significant development coinciding with World Autism Awareness Day, Optism, an innovative platform designed for families with children on the autism spectrum (ASD), is officially unveiled in Hong Kong.

Optism Launches in Hong Kong
Optism Launches in Hong Kong

Founded by Carmen Li, a publisher driven by her personal narrative as the mother of a child with ASD, Optism embodies a commitment to revolutionizing the support available to the ASD community.

The platform comes with extensive resources, featuring “Ask Optism”, an AI feature designed to respond to ASD-related inquiries. “Ask Optism” was developed with the assistance of graduates from The Chinese University of Hong Kong under the guidance of Dr. Wong Tat Wing, incorporating an ASD-focused framework that fosters connections and support.

Carmen Li expresses the heart of Optism’s mission, “Parents with children with ASD often carry the weight of childcare physically, emotionally, and financially. Even everyday situations can cause immense emotional stress, potentially leading to depression and other challenges. Our platform recognizes these realities and provides workable solutions that families dealing with ASD traditionally struggle to find.”

With approximately 1 in 36 children diagnosed on the autism spectrum, Optism’s mission is to provide cutting-edge technology, curated information, reliable resources, and a supportive community for their families all on one convenient platform. The “Ask Optism” AI feature, made specifically for answering ASD-related questions, is a testament to our commitment to providing the most advanced resources to our community.

In conjunction with its launch, Optism is proud to offer a wealth of exclusive content tailored to support ASD parents, including practical advice for everyday life such as traveling with an ASD child, navigating ASD-friendly airports, and estate planning for special needs families.

Featured content and interviews include:

William Buick: An intimate conversation with the champion jockey who discusses the challenges and triumphs as a parent to his son with ASD.

Tony Snell: Insightful dialogue with the former NBA player who shares his experiences as an athlete on the spectrum and the importance of understanding and supporting individuals with ASD.

Series of Interviews with Notable ASD Experts in Hong Kong: A rich collection of discussions with leading figures in the field, providing professional insights, advice, and the latest findings.

Each piece is crafted to offer guidance, inspiration, and a sense of community for families navigating the ASD journey, and it is completely free to use.

The platform’s dedication to cultural inclusivity is further emphasized with the upcoming release of a Chinese edition next month, making these invaluable resources available to an even wider audience.

Join Optism to discover a space where information meets innovation, and where families touched by ASD can find not just answers, but also understanding and solidarity.

For more information about Optism, the “Ask Optism” AI feature, exclusive launch interviews, or the upcoming Chinese edition, please visit www.optism.co or email carmen.li@optism.co

Hashtag: #optismofficial #Autismhongkong #Autismawareness #AIforbusiness #asd #autism




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

About Optism

Founded by Carmen Li, Optism is Hong Kong’s first integrated platform for ASD families, merging advanced AI technology with a curated trove of accessible content. It is a one-stop platform for families seeking knowledge, support, and connection in the ASD community.

Airports of Thailand Implements Passenger Service Charge Increase, Efficiency Boost

Long lines at Suvarnabhumi International Airport (Photo: Thomas Cristofoletti via Twitter)
Long lines at Suvarnabhumi International Airport (Photo: Thomas Cristofoletti via Twitter, 20 February)

The Airports of Thailand (AOT) announced an increase in its passenger service charge (PSC) effective 1 April. For international passengers, the charge rose from THB 700 (USD 19.10) per person to THB 730 (USD 20.50) per person, while for domestic travelers, it increased from THB 100 (2.75) per person to THB 130 (USD 3.55) per person.

The organization has also ushered in a new phase of efficiency and service quality with the implementation of the Common Use Passenger Processing System (CUPPS) across its six international airports. Effective 1 April, this system overhaul aims to streamline operations and elevate the passenger experience, coinciding with a slight increase in the PSC.

Under the leadership of Kerati Kijmanawat, President of AOT, the organization has stepped up to align operations with international standards while prioritizing passenger convenience, speed, and safety.

This initiative aligns with the resolutions set by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) and comprises three key components: Common Use Terminal Equipment (CUTE), Common Use Self Service (CUSS), and Common Use Bag Drop (CUBD).

The CUTE system enhances service delivery at check-in counters, ensuring passengers receive service that meets international standards. CUSS, on the other hand, reduces waiting times at check-in areas and enables passengers to check in 6-12 hours prior to departure, depending on airline conditions. Meanwhile, CUBD facilitates passengers in loading baggage independently.

Despite the promising advancements brought about by the implementation of CUPPS, it’s worth noting that the integration of CUSS has incurred additional service rates for AOT. Nevertheless, these initiatives are poised to streamline processes and elevate service standards across the AOT airport network, contributing to Thailand’s continued positioning as a leading travel destination in the region.

Capital Markets Malaysia and Climate Bonds Initiative launch Transition Strategy Toolkit to accelerate the pace and scale of transition finance

The Toolkit guides corporates seeking capital for their transition finance needs towards the development of credible, science-based transition plans.


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 April 2024 – Capital Markets Malaysia (“CMM”), an affiliate of the Securities Commission Malaysia (“SC”) in collaboration with the Climate Bonds Initiative (“Climate Bonds”) today launched its interactive Transition Strategy Toolkit (“toolkit”) that is aimed at supporting local and regional efforts towards the global net zero goal by leveraging transition finance amongst mature and mid-tier corporates. The toolkit is designed to offer corporations in ASEAN seeking to attract capital for their transition needs with insights on building credible science-based climate transition plans that are aligned to the Paris Agreement targets or respective national climate goals.

The toolkit details the underlying principles and elements to be incorporated when developing climate transition plans, by guiding users through the Climate Bonds Five Principles for an ambitious transition, enabling investors to easily identify investments that support a low-carbon transition.

Datin Azalina Adham, Managing Director of the SC and Board Member of CMM said, “The Transition Strategy Toolkit takes a consultative approach in offering guidance to corporations operating across ASEAN as it is designed to consider the specific nuances of decarbonisation goals of each ASEAN country, while providing a benchmark against the Climate Bonds Initiative’s ambitious transition methodology.

“Malaysian corporates embarking on their transition strategies, financial institutions offering transition financing and institutional investors looking to invest in credible transition projects will find the Toolkit useful in identifying and assessing plans, targets and goals that meet globally accepted transition principles.

“The launch of this Toolkit builds on the SC’s continued efforts to support Malaysia’s carbon neutral aspirations laid out in recent policy initiatives such as the National Industrial Masterplan 2030 and the National Energy Transition Roadmap by providing best practice guidance to corporations seeking to attract capital for transition projects that will advance our national climate agenda. While we progress on our journey to carbon neutrality, it is important to ensure that the principles for a just transition are adhered to,” she added.

CEO and Founder of Climate Bonds, Sean Kidney said, “We are delighted to collaborate with CMM to develop this toolkit for ASEAN corporations. Transition plans are essential in the journey towards the Paris goals. They must be built on clear targets, effective strategies, ample financial support, and unwavering leadership. Harmonisation of key principles underpinning transition plans will encourage the flow of green capital to ASEAN businesses.”

The web-based Toolkit utilises an interactive question and answer (Q&A) interface that begins with a risk assessment supported by key definitions and the CBI methodology to offer essential and systematic guidance on areas to consider when developing comprehensive transition plans. By going through the interactive Q&A, businesses will be able to determine where they stand and identify key areas to address to achieve the 5 Hallmarks that are fully aligned with and build on the thematic guidelines from the International Capital Market Association (ICMA), as well as the disclosure requirements from the Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD).

The hallmarks include Paris-aligned performance targets, robust plans with a clear step-by-step qualitative implementation plan towards targets, actions being implemented with identified metrics and indicators to assess delivery, governance of accountability mechanisms and leadership systems needed to drive the transition as well as transparent disclosures for credibility and comparability across national and global peers.

In conjunction with the launch of the toolkit, CMM hosted a webinar on Transition Finance in ASEAN on 27 March featuring speakers from the Climate Bonds Initiative, UK Transition Plan Taskforce (TPT) and the Securities Commission Malaysia, highlighting recent global initiatives in supporting transition finance.

For more information on the toolkit visit https://www.capitalmarketsmalaysia.com/transition-strategy-toolkit/.

Hashtag: #CapitalMarketsMalaysia #ClimateBondsInitiative #TransitionStrategy #ClimateTransition #TransitionFinance



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

Capital Markets Malaysia

The Securities Commission Malaysia (“SC“) set up Capital Markets Malaysia (“CMM“) in 2014 to spearhead the local and international positioning as well as profiling of the Malaysian capital market. Funded by the Capital Markets Development Fund, CMM showcases the competitiveness and attractiveness of the various segments of the Malaysian capital market – to promote international participation and enhance opportunities for domestic capital market intermediaries. CMM works to support the advancement of these entities through various initiatives and partnerships, focusing on four key areas: sustainable finance and investing, the Islamic capital market, the digital market, and capital market funding opportunities through the private market. For more information, visit the CMM website at .

Climate Bonds Initiative

Climate Bonds Initiative is an international organisation working to mobilise global capital for climate action, through the development of the Climate Bonds Standard and Certification Scheme, Policy Engagement and Market Intelligence work, as well as empowering Partner organisations with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate, influence, and instigate change. For more information, visit the Climate Bonds Initiative website at .

Save the Children Hong Kong Launches Inaugural Children’s Champion Award

Recognise Citizens and Organisations for Contributions to Transforming Lives of Children


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 April 2024 – Save the Children Hong Kong announces the launch of the inaugural Children’s Champion Award. As an organisation dedicated to transforming the lives of children and with over 100 years of experience worldwide, Save the Children is celebrating its 15th anniversary in Hong Kong and introducing their Children’s Champion Award, to pay tribute to individuals and organisations, and inspire people from all walks of life to bring a brighter future to children.

Children's Champion Award

Recognising Exceptional Contributions to Children

This prestigious award is the first of its kind, aiming to recognise outstanding contributions to children in Hong Kong and around the world, particularly in the areas of health, education, and protection. The Children’s Champion Award features three distinct categories:

1. Children’s Champion Youth Award, which recognises the contributions of the younger generation aged 35 or below;

2. Children’s Champion Award, that recognises individuals aged 36 or above

3. Children’s Champion Award (Private Sector), which recognises corporates and philanthropic foundations that have made exceptional contributions to children

Nomination Period: From now to 15 May, 2024

Prominent Judging Panel Ensuring Credibility

With a judging panel composed of well-recognised figures from diverse sectors of society and support from different organisations, the award represents a collective effort and a shared commitment to improving the lives of children. The panel brings a wealth of expertise and experience to ensure a comprehensive and fair evaluation process.

The distinguished members of the judging panel include:

· Prof. Annie Tam, GBS, JP
Adjunct Professor, Department of Social Work and Social Administration, The University of Hong Kong

· Dr. Hon Tik Chi Yuen, SBS, JP
Legislative Councilor (Social Welfare)

· Dr. Phyllis Chan
Honorary Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, LKS Medical Faculty, University of Hong Kong

· Ms. Carol Szeto
CEO of Save the Children Hong Kong

Judging Panel

15 Years of Empowering Children: Save the Children Hong Kong’s Enduring Commitment

For 15 years, Save the Children Hong Kong has been at the forefront of empowering children to transform their future, building on the work of Save the Children global movement that has spanned over 100 years and in about 120 countries. From creating opportunities for children to learn and play, to protecting them from harm and abuse, and providing life-saving essential supplies during humanitarian emergencies, Save the Children is shaping a brighter tomorrow for the most vulnerable children. The Children’s Champion Award, a highlight of their anniversary celebration, recognises the changemakers from all walks of life who have made a remarkable impact and showcases their unwavering commitment to this ongoing journey of empowering children, with every step taken to create a better future we shared.

Nominate deserving individuals or corporations for the Children’s Champion Award by Save the Children Hong Kong to recognise their efforts for children while inspiring others to follow their footsteps to foster positive change for children. Nomination is free of charge, do not miss the chance.

For more information about the Children’s Champion Award and to learn more about Save the Children Hong Kong’s work, please visit our website at https://savethechildren.org.hk/en/childrens-champion-award/. Discover inspiring stories, learn about our initiatives, and find out how you can get involved in creating a brighter future for children.

Hashtag: #SavetheChildrenHongKong #ChildrensChampionAward #Children





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

About Save the Children Hong Kong

Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. In Hong Kong and around the world, we do whatever it takes – every day and in times of crisis – so children can fulfil their rights to a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. With over 100 years of expertise, we are the world’s first and leading independent children’s organisation – transforming lives and the future we share.

Established in 2009, Save the Children Hong Kong is part of the global movement which operates in around 120 countries. We work with children, families, schools, communities and our supporters to deliver lasting change for children in Hong Kong and around the world.Visit our , or follow us on , , and .

Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards 2024 Drives Regional Empowerment with China’s Inclusive Entrepreneurial Powerhouses

SHANGHAI, CHINA –Media OutReach Newswire – 2 April 2024 – Hailed as the Oscars of Asian entrepreneurship awards, the Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards (APEA) recently wrapped up its China Chapter in Shanghai. The highly anticipated APEA 2024 illuminates China’s thriving and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem, capturing the essence of innovation and inclusivity.
Organized by regional NGO Enterprise Asia, the APEA is entering its 17th year and has expanded to 16 countries and markets across Asia. It has honored over 2,000 entrepreneurs and enterprises, serving as one of the region’s largest recognition platforms for outstanding leaders and businesses across various fields.
Under the theme ‘Empowering Asia Through Inclusive Entrepreneurship Ecosystems’, the prestigious awards ceremony paid homage to China’s dynamic entrepreneurs, honoring their profound impact on regional growth and inclusivity. In the face of economic challenges and global shifts, the APEA emerges as a symbol of resilience and excellence. It underscores the pivotal role played by the country’s entrepreneurial leaders in nurturing inclusive ecosystems that propel sustainable development and uplift communities across the region.
The award recipients were meticulously chosen from a pool of over 100 nominees, following a rigorous evaluation process conducted by a distinguished panel of judges spanning four categories: Master Entrepreneur, Inspirational Brand, Fast Enterprise, and Corporate Excellence. The Awards’ past winners include exemplary leaders comprising China’s Hui Wing Mao of Shimao Group, Taiwan’s Douglas Tong Hsu of Far Eastern Group, Hong Kong’s Francis Lui of Galaxy Entertainment Group, TTC Vietnam’s Dang Van Thanh, Thailand’s Somphote Ahunai of Energy Absolute, Cuckoo Malaysia’s Hoe Kian Choon, Indonesia’s Hary Tanoesoedibjo of MNC Corporation and Mochtar Riady of Lippo Group, India’s Adi Godrej of Godrej Group, and the Philippines’ Dennis Anthony Uy of Converge ICT.
Dr. Fong Chan Onn, Chairman of Enterprise Asia, stated, “Inclusive entrepreneurship ecosystems are essential catalysts for driving sustainable economic growth and fostering social development across Asia. By empowering entrepreneurs from diverse backgrounds and communities, we unlock untapped potential, drive innovation, and create opportunities for all. The APEA 2024 China Chapter celebrates the achievements of visionary leaders and enterprises who embody the spirit of inclusive entrepreneurship, inspiring others to follow suit and contribute to building a more equitable and prosperous future.”
This year’s notable awardees, including Townray Holdings Limited, Eagle Renewable Energy (Shanghai) Co., Ltd., Link Asset Management Limited, SBA Stone Forest; epitomize dedication, innovation, and leadership. Their pioneering efforts in corporate excellence, sustainability, and societal impact have redefined success for businesses, inspiring others to champion positive change. Their achievements showcase the transformative power of entrepreneurship, reinforcing APEA’s commitment to driving regional progress.
Apart from the APEA, the leading regional NGO also hosts globally renowned annual programs including the Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards (AREA), International Innovation Awards (IIA), and international summits comprising the Asia Economic Forum (AEF), International CSR & Sustainability (ICS) Summit, and International Innovation Summit (IIS). These programs aim to honor outstanding business leaders and enterprises through awards and inspire their peers to follow suit. Concurrently, the programs provide an international platform for industry leaders across diverse industries to engage, share insights, and uncover new business prospects.
The APEA 2024 China Chapter is co-organized by Enterprise Accelerator Co. Ltd. and supported by SingCham Shanghai and the China Australia Chamber of Commerce–South China. Acclime is the Official Verification Partner and Dailywire.asia is the Media Partner.

FULL RECIPIENT LIST OF THE ASIA PACIFIC ENTERPRISE AWARDS 2024 CHINA CHAPTER
MASTER ENTREPRENEUR CATEGORY
NAME COMPANY INDUSTRY
KELVIN POOH
GROUP CEO
EAGLE RENEWABLE ENERGY (SHANGHAI) CO., LTD. RENEWABLE ENERGY
TAN LEE LEE
HEAD OF CHINA
SBA STONE FOREST CORPORATE ADVISORY (SHANGHAI) CO., LTD. PROFESSIONAL & BUSINESS SERVICES
TUNG MING YIU
ACCOUNTING DIRECTOR
TOWN RAY HOLDINGS LIMITED MANUFACTURING
FAST ENTERPRISE CATEGORY
COMPANY INDUSTRY
MOON AERO (SG) PTE LTD TRANSPORTATION & LOGISTICS
SHOPLAZZA TELECOMMUNICATIONS & ICT
INSPIRATIONAL BRAND CATEGORY
COMPANY INDUSTRY
LINK ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED REAL ESTATE
CORPORATE EXCELLENCE CATEGORY
COMPANY INDUSTRY
JENSCARE SCIENTIFIC CO., LTD. HEALTHCARE, PHARMACEUTICAL & BIOTECHNOLOGY
LINK ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED REAL ESTATE
OATLY SHANGHAI CO., LTD CONSUMER GOODS
SBA STONE FOREST CORPORATE ADVISORY (SHANGHAI) CO., LTD. PROFESSIONAL & BUSINESS SERVICES
SHENZHEN SHANGRI-LA HOTEL LIMITED HOSPITALITY, TOURISM AND FOOD SERVICES

Hashtag: #APEA #APEACHINA #BUSINESSAWARDS #ENTREPRENEURSHIP #BUSINESS #CHINA #CORPORATEAWARDS #ENTERPRISEASIA



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

About Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards

Launched in 2007, the Asia Pacific Enterprise Awards is the region’s most prestigious award for outstanding entrepreneurship, continuous innovation, and sustainable leadership. The Award provides a platform for companies and governments to recognize entrepreneurial excellence, hence spurring greater innovation, fair business practices, and growth in entrepreneurship. As a regional award, it groups leading entrepreneurs as a powerful voice for entrepreneurship and serves as a by-invitation-only networking powerhouse. The program has grown to encompass 16 countries/ regions and markets all over Asia. For further information, please visit.

About Enterprise Asia

Enterprise Asia is a non-governmental organization in pursuit of creating an Asia that is rich in entrepreneurship as an engine towards sustainable and progressive economic and social development within a world of economic equality. Its two pillars of existence are an investment in people and responsible entrepreneurship. Enterprise Asia works with governments, NGOs, and other organizations to promote competitiveness and entrepreneurial development, uplift the economic status of people across Asia, and ensure a legacy of hope, innovation, and courage for future generations. Please visit for more information.

Inflation Rate in Laos Dips Slightly to 24.98 Percent in March

Vientiane Capital Reiterates Rules To Stop Price Hikes During Lao New Year
People at a local market in Laos. ( Photo ; Khonesavanh.KMV / Shutterstock.com )

Amidst a backdrop of economic challenges, Laos experienced a marginal decline in its inflation rate, dipping to 24.98 percent in March from February’s 25.35 percent, as reported by the Lao Statistic Bureau.