The Department of Public Works and Transport in Vientiane Capital has recommended to the government the closure of popular taxi applications, In-Drive and Sam Laos, citing non-compliance with regulations and safety concerns.
New Club Ignites Passion for Field Hockey in Luang Prabang
The launch of the Luang Prabang Field Hockey Club promises a new chapter for local sports enthusiasts.
With a vision to expand the reach of field hockey in Laos, Mickey Philip, a teacher at Kiettisack International School and a long-term expatriate in Laos, has set up this new weekly group activity, drawing players from both local and foreign communities of all ages. The club’s inauguration, in early February, marked a significant milestone in the development of field hockey in the country, building upon the foundation laid by the first-ever Vientiane Field Hockey initiative started by Latonya Ball in 2016.
Despite facing setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Philip remained determined to bring the sport to Luang Prabang after relocating from Vientiane.
“After moving from Vientiane to Luang Prabang, I really missed playing hockey every Thursday, so I was aiming to open the club initially towards the end of 2018, and then Covid happened,” she said.
The club’s establishment has been met with enthusiasm from the local community, with Philip expressing hopes of sparking curiosity and garnering interest among residents.
“As we’ve only had a few sessions so far, I’m hoping that more curiosity will be sparked as I wish to have a full team to play against the Vientiane Field Hockey Club and to enter a team for Luang Prabang in the next upcoming tournaments,” Philip explained.
One intriguing aspect of field hockey’s introduction to Laos is its similarities to a traditional Lao sport known as “Thiki,” which is played during the annual That Luang festival. Philip noted the parallels between the two sports, admiring how quickly Lao people have embraced field hockey.
“I like to see how quickly Lao people learn and enjoy the sport and are almost just naturally excellent in hockey,” Philip remarked, highlighting the potential for local talent to excel in the sport at an international level.
Beyond the athletic aspect of it, Philip aims to use the club as a platform to engage young people in Luang Prabang, particularly on Friday nights.
“I hope this will be a moment for local youth to gather, socialize and have fun while also keeping fit,” Philip explained.
Looking ahead, Philip aspires to see Lao athletes shine on the global stage. “I sincerely wish that by creating opportunities and platforms like these, we can see Lao people excelling and being featured in world-class sporting events.”
As the newly established Luang Prabang Field Hockey Club gains momentum, it promises to enhance the sporting landscape in Laos while also fostering community involvement and igniting athletic passion throughout the nation.
“Art March” invites public to ride trams for free

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 March 2024 – To encourage the citizens and visitors to participate in the “Art March” and its various activities, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB) will launch “Art March” Free Tram Ride Day on March 16, 2024 (Saturday). Members of the public can enjoy free rides on all tram routes that day to explore Hong Kong Island, and enjoy the feast of art and culture.

This year for the first time, the CSTB has launched “Art March” as a brand to promote multiple events organised, funded, or supported by the Government. The Bureau hopes that everyone can enjoy an unforgettable experience immersed in the artistic vibe of Hong Kong during March every year. The Government’s another aim is to manifest the economic benefits of the mega arts and cultural events to the fullest. Tourism-related industries, such as hotels, retail and catering, were encouraged to join hands with the arts and cultural sectors in polishing the brand of “Art March” to provide citizens and visitors with an enriched artistic journey.
The extensive coverage of activities in Art March 2024 ranges from arts and culture, pop, as well as TV and film. Various happenings including art exhibitions, film events, a cultural summit and a fashion show welcome all walks of life. Apart from the well-received events in the past, the new event brands which are to be held in Hong Kong for the first time will make the city’s vibrant cultural landscape more colourful. The activities of Art March 2024 are detailed on the website of the CSTB (www.cstb.gov.hk/en/policies/culture/art-march.html).

Hashtag: #ARTMARCH2024 #CSTB
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Tangs Clinical TCM Unveils Innovative Traditional Chinese Medicine approach for curing skin diseases

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 March 2024 – Clinical studies and research conducted by Tangs Clinical TCM, a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) clinic in Singapore, unveils innovative approaches to skin health. Patients suffering from chronic skin conditions, especially those caused by autoimmune disorders, now have hope in new treatment methods rooted in herbal medications.

Overview of TCM and its Evolution in Skin Health
TCM prioritises achieving balance from within to address various problems in the body. However, it was not the primary choice for resolving skin conditions, and there were limitations to what TCM could do in the past. During the process of developing alternative solutions for skin-related issues, practitioners in TCM found themselves challenged by the ineffectiveness of various medications. For example, the use of immunosuppressive medicines could temporarily alleviate symptoms, but they couldn’t get to the root of the problem. In fact, these interventions would go on to weaken the immune system without addressing underlying issues, leading to relapses and adverse effects after discontinuation.
TCM’s Breakthrough
In the 1970s, a military surgeon in the China army force, Dr. Tang, conducted clinical studies on autoimmune diseases and vasculitis, and discovered how our immune system works in maintaining skin health. He adopted an alternative medicine concept and administered an exclusive range of herbal compounds to treat these conditions instead of using conventional immunosuppressive therapies. The compounds facilitated a negative feedback loop to achieve a homeostasis state (an equilibrium in physiological processes) and treat autoimmune diseases safely.
Methodology and Research Findings
In a study conducted by Dr Tony Tang of Tangs Clinical TCM to assess the effectiveness of a herbal compound containing about 450 mg of extract (approximately 2,493 mg of raw herbs) in treating psoriasis, 11 out of 15 initial patients were cleared and achieved approximately 75% reduction in their psoriasis area and severity index (PASI). The medication consists of herbs such as ginger, which induces sweating to expel exo-pathogens (infections that stem from external elements); dansheng, which promotes blood circulation; Astragali, which invigorates energy (Qi) and induces diuresis to remove edema, and more. More information about this clinical research is available in the medical paper titled “Review of Treatment for Psoriasis Using, a Botanical Formula” published in The Journal of Dermatology Vol.32, No.12, December Issue 2005 (J Dermatol 32(12):940-945,2005).
Dr Tony Tang found that patients with a history of immunosuppressant use took longer to recover and the healing process was generally more unpredictable. This is because the results are greatly influenced by the dosage and strength of immunosuppressants prescribed previously. A retrospective observational study showed that the efficacy of TCM medications were inversely associated with prior immunosuppressant exposure. Non-immunosuppressant subjects could achieve complete clearance in 8 months, while those who were exposed to immunosuppressants experienced a more wavelike evolution of psoriatic lesions, where symptoms would come and go in different intensities before clearing.
In his clinical practice, Dr. Tang also applies his research findings to his patients. Tangs Clinical TCM possesses an extensive collection of patient case studies on their website, demonstrating the effectiveness of their treatments in addressing various skin conditions, from onset to recovery: https://tangsclinical.com/patient-info/case-reports/.
Hashtag: #TangsClinicalTCM
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About Tangs Clinical TCM
Tangs Clinical TCM is a phytopharmaceutical research centre that recognises the power herbs have in managing skin disorders without compromising the body’s vital immune system. Through research and clinical trials and studies, we have identified some very useful active plant compounds and formulated them into unique herbal products that will help the body reestablish homeostasis to address autoimmune skin disorders in a natural and safe way.
Kaplan Singapore Opens New City Campus Offering Tech-Driven, Collaborative Learning Experience
Kaplan City Campus at Odeon 331 equipped with state-of-the-art technology and innovative features
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 March 2024 – On 22 February, Kaplan Singapore [1] (Kaplan) launched its new Kaplan City Campus at Odeon 331 [2]. The Campus has been designed to create a collaborative and interactive learning and teaching environment for students, with state-of-the-art technology, innovative features and a modern look.
The new Campus was officially opened by the CEO of Kaplan International, Mr David Jones as well as President of Kaplan Singapore, Dr Susie Khoo. The event was witnessed by Kaplan senior management, Kaplan’s Industry Advisory Board members and guests.
Speaking at the event, Dr Khoo, President of Kaplan Singapore, said, “All our campuses are designed to optimise students’ academic success, including our latest addition at Odeon 331. This Campus integrates advanced teaching technology to foster a collaborative learning environment, exemplifying Kaplan’s dedication to investing in service enhancement and excellence in higher education.”
“In particular, Odeon 331 was selected due to its prime location and exceptional connectivity to public transportation, retail malls and iconic cultural sites. The Campus also reflects Kaplan’s commitment to the highest standards of environmental sustainability given that Odeon 331 is accredited with the Building and Construction Authority (BCA) Green Mark Platinum Award [3].”
Campus Features
Spread over 16,000 square feet, the Campus has 12 classrooms over two floors which can cater to approximately 450 students at any one time – an extension of Kaplan’s other campuses which have more than 60 classrooms. In addition to the classrooms, there are over 100 self-study seats across the Campus, creating different zones and environments for students to catch up on their lessons and assignments.
The Nexus
Among the new features to enhance collaborative learning at the Campus is The Nexus, a space equipped with an 85-inch smart interactive touchscreen display board which offers intuitive on-screen interactions and height-adjustable tables which can flip and be used as whiteboards to allow students to interact seamlessly together.
State-of-the-Art Classrooms
The new Campus also offers state-of-the-art classrooms enhanced with cutting-edge technology and improved technology experience. Apart from the 85-inch smart interactive display boards, a section of the classroom walls has been designed as writable surfaces, serving as a reusable canvas for students to capture and discuss their ideas. These classrooms can also be configured to offer different learning experiences across various student profiles.
Private Online Discussion support stations (PODss)
Another new feature of the Campus are the PODss or Private Online Discussion support stations which are similar to video teller machines for banks. Students based at the new Campus can conveniently contact their respective Programme Managers during office hours and conduct a private, one-on-one meeting without the need for either party to travel between campuses. This is especially useful if a student requires urgent or timely assistance from their Programme Managers located at another campus.
Sharing Kaplan’s campus expansion plans, Dr Khoo said: “The launch of our latest campus at Odeon 331 marks Phase 1 of our campus expansion plans and is testament to our dedication to providing top-notch facilities and resources for our students, faculty, and staff. Phase 2 is well underway and is in the horizon for the second half of the year. This next phase will see even more opportunities, facilities, and programmes to enhance our students’ learning and growth. It also reflects our commitment to invest in the education sector in Singapore.”
[1] Any reference to the term ‘Kaplan Singapore’ is used to collectively describe the Kaplan entities in Singapore, Kaplan Higher Education Academy and Kaplan Higher Education Institute.
[2] Kaplan City Campus @ Odeon is located at 331 North Bridge Road, Odeon 331 Level 8, Singapore 188720
[3] Source: UOL Sustainability Report 2022
Hashtag: #KaplanSingapore #KaplanTheChoice #IntegratedLearning #CampusOpening
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About Kaplan Singapore
Kaplan Singapore is part of Kaplan Inc., one of the world’s most diverse education providers and the largest subsidiary of Graham Holdings Company (NYSE:GHC). To date, Kaplan Singapore has students from over 35 countries and regions, and has served over 100,000 graduates. With over 450 academic programmes for higher learning and professional certification courses available for skills development, Kaplan provides opportunities for individuals to pursue lifelong learning. Learn more about Kaplan Singapore at www.kaplan.com.sg.
Blossoming plum adds tourism charm to west China’s Wushan County

WUSHAN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 March 2024 – A picturesque view is unfolding in Wushan County, a scenic city along the Yangtze River in west China’s Chongqing Municipality. The sixth Three Gorges (Wushan) Plum Flower Festival of the Yangtze River opened on March 12, which seeks to enhance the Three Gorges’ appeal to tourists with the refreshing blossoms.

Located in the hinterland of the Three Gorges and covering both banks of the Yangtze River, Wushan County is a hub for Chongqing’s exchanges with the east and a must pass to visit the Three Gorges of the Yangtze River.
The history of planting Wushan crisp plum could be traced to the Tang and Song dynasties over a thousand years ago. At present, the planting area of crisp plum in Wushan is 300,000 mu, covering an altitude of 175 meters to 800 meters.
Now the plum blossoms are gradually in full bloom, with a blossoming period lasting from mid-March to mid-April. Large swathes of plum blossoms make the mountains look snow-capped, creating a glamorous scene along the banks of the Yangtze River.
Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets. In recent years, Wushan County has taken an array of steps to protect local environment and develop crisp plum into a pillar industry. Through variety breeding and technical improvement, the county has lifted the quality and planting scale of crisp plum, gaining the fame as China’s crisp plum hub.
Crispy plum is just a representative of many ecological “gold mines” in Wushan.
In recent years, Wushan County has launched a land greening promotion campaign focusing on planting red-leaf tree species on both sides of the Yangtze River, which not only restored the local ecology, but also made the region’s red-leaf trees more concentrated and contiguous.
Wushan International Red Leaf Festival has been held for 17 consecutive sessions, and has become an important event to showcase the achievements of ecological development along the Yangtze River.
Nowadays, a comprehensive transportation hub is in place in east Chongqing, Wushan, which consists of an airport, a high-speed railway, the waterways of the Yangtze River, several expressways and a tourism loop route.
Wushan Airport has opened 10 routes, while the Zhengzhou-Chongqing high-speed trains make a stop at Wushan station 43 times a day.
In Wushan, convenient transport and handy shuttle services enable tourists to enjoy fast travel and a leisurely time.
Hashtag: #Wushan #PlumFlower
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Arla Foods Ingredients to Unveil Innovative Cheese Solutions at FIC 2024

COPENHAGEN, DENMARK – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 March 2024 – The 27th edition of Food Ingredients China (FIC 2024) is poised to unfold from March 20th to 22nd at Shanghai’s National Exhibition and Convention Center, where Danish company Arla Foods Ingredients will spotlight its latest innovations in cheese and whey protein solutions.

At this year’s FIC, Arla Foods Ingredients will present a range of products including nutritionally enhanced cheese made with instant whey protein hydrolysates, high-protein yogurt bars, shelf-stable yogurt crafted with premium proteins, and clear protein shakes designed for mainstream sports nutrition consumers. These offerings not only meet the market’s demand for health and nutrition but also cater to consumers’ preferences for taste and texture.
Current market research underscores the importance of health and nutrition to today’s consumers, highlighting protein’s vital role in enhancing the nutritional profile of cheese products and supporting overall health. Arla Foods Ingredients’ array of solutions showcases the company’s commitment to offering food and nutrition manufacturers innovative choices that cater to the consumers’ dual pursuit of nutritional benefits and sensory pleasure.
Chen Shu, the Asia-Pacific Market Manager, remarked, “Our innovative solutions allow manufacturers to substitute milk fat with healthful milk proteins, boosting the calcium content in their products. Additionally, our low-fat options reduce the dependency on skimmed milk cheese. These advancements not only cater to the consumer’s quest for nutritious options but also their desire for enjoyable taste experiences.”
Visitors are invited to explore Arla Foods Ingredients’ booth at FIC 2024, located at 3G20/3H21 in Hall 3, where they can experience the company’s pioneering cheese products and whey protein solutions firsthand, from March 20th to 22nd.
Hashtag: #ArlaFoodsIngredients
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About Arla Foods Ingredients
Arla Foods Ingredients is a global leader in improving premium nutrition. Together with our customers, research partners, suppliers, NGOs and others, we discover and deliver documented ingredients and products that can advance lifelong nutrition for the benefit of consumers around the world.
We serve leading global brands in early life nutrition, medical nutrition, sports nutrition, health foods, and other foods and beverages.
Five reasons to choose us:
- We’re passionate about improving nutrition
- We innovate by connecting the best
- We master both discovery and delivery
- We build strong, long-lasting partnerships
- We are committed to sustainability
Headquartered in Denmark, Arla Foods Ingredients is a 100% owned subsidiary of Arla Foods.
Delta Dunia Group Drives Net Profit of USD 36 million for FY2023; 26% increase from previous year

- Corporate diversification and transformation strategy successfully yielding results, delivering sustained financial performance that surpassed guidance.
- Revenue increased 18% YoY, hitting a record high of USD 1.8 billion for FY2023.
- Strong underlying performance with EBITDA at USD 412 million for FY2023, a 13% increase YoY.
- Strong performance attributed to contract wins, record coal production, proactive cost management strategies and increased diversification to metallurgical coal which now contributes 19% of revenue.
- Strong operating cashflow increased 91% YoY to reach USD 376 million in FY2023, resulting in a strong cash position of USD 543 million to support our business and fuel future growth through acquisitions. Concurrently, we’ve undertaken a strategic initiative to reduce our debt exposure. On March 5th, 2024, we announced a bond tender offer exercise and consent solicitation to all holders of our outstanding 7.75% Senior Notes due in 2025, with the aim of purchasing for cash any and all of the outstanding balance.
- Successful refinancing activities at an attractive rate, and significantly deferring the due date of the Group’s loans. This is a result of the flawless execution of the Group’s strategy to diversify funding sources via first-ever Sharia financing, first ever IDR Bond and capped with a substantial facility from major Indonesian state-owned Banks.
JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 March 2024 – PT Delta Dunia Makmur Tbk (Delta Dunia Group), the parent company of PT Bukit Makmur Mandiri Utama (BUMA), BUMA Australia Pty Ltd (BUMA Australia), PT Bukit Teknologi Digital (B-TECH), and PT BISA Ruang Nuswantara (BIRU), reported sustained performance for the full year 2023 (FY2023), surpassing guidelines.
Key Consolidated Financial Highlights:
USD mn, unless stated | 4Q23 | 4Q22 | YoY Change | FY23 | FY22 | YoY Change |
Revenue | 470 | 405 | 16% | 1,833 | 1,554 | 18% |
Finance cost | (22) | (20) | 12% | (88) | (70) | 26% |
EBITDA | 111 | 93 | 19% | 412 | 365 | 13% |
Operating Profit | 45 | 31 | 48% | 152 | 131 | 16% |
Net Profit/(Loss) | 14 | 8 | 78% | 36 | 29 | 26% |
In FY2023, Delta Dunia Group demonstrated record-breaking performances across overburden removal, revenue, and EBITDA, exceeding the Group’s guidance for the year. This success was largely driven by a record overburden removal, marking a 14% YoY increase, and production volumes in both Indonesia (up by 10% YoY) and Australia (up by 28% YoY). This was supported by a strong uptake from customer contract wins, including BMA’s (BHP and Mitsubishi Alliance) Saraji and Burton mines in Australia.
Cash costs, excluding fuel per bcm, increased by 8%, driven largely by the ramp-up in volumes at BUMA Australia aimed at meeting customer demands. Further, employee costs and the cost of spare-parts – including materials for tires, and drilling & blasting activities – also increased due to inflationary pressures. However, these increases were partially offset by the Group’s continued efforts in driving cost efficiencies through technology and operational-led excellence.
Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) declined by 20% YoY, bringing it to USD 121 million. This reduction was attributed to the successful completion of project ramp-ups in Indonesia, aligning within the 2023 guidance of USD 105 million to USD 145 million. Maintaining strict control over CAPEX remains the Group’s priority.
Corporate Diversification Paying Off
Dian Andyasuri, Director at Delta Dunia Group, emphasized the strategic transformation of the company’s product mix in response to global shifts towards a low-carbon economy. “As we are adapting to the declining demand for thermal coal, we’re capitalizing on the robust demand for metallurgical coal, which continues to be pivotal for steel production. This intentional transition is a cornerstone of our diversification strategy, already yielding substantial results. Metallurgical coal and infrastructure now represent a significant 19% of our revenue, steering us towards our goal of reducing our reliance on thermal coal to 50% by 2028. Such progress reflects our commitment to sustained performance and strategic growth.”
Successful Capital Management Strategy
In FY2023, Delta Dunia Group significantly strengthened its balance sheet and achieved a 10-year low net debt to EBITDA ratio of 1.65x, a notable decrease from 2.19x in FY2022. The Group also experienced a substantial increase in operating cash flows, reaching USD 376 million, up 91% from the previous year. Additionally, free cash flow rose to USD 233 million. These improvements were driven by a record EBITDA performance, improved working capital management, and a higher tax refund achieved for the Group.
Through its share buyback program, the Group successfully repurchased 1,284,502,100 shares. This significant buyback represents approximately 14.9% of Delta Dunia Group’s outstanding shares as of August 4th, 2023. Furthermore, in FY 2023, the Group purchased USD 34.3 million of its Senior Notes. These strategic financial moves not only reflect the Group’s commitment to enhancing shareholder value but also its prudent management of capital, aligning with its long-term financial strategies.
The diversification of funding sources in FY2023 stood as a testament to the sustained trust from both existing and new financial partners, marking a significant milestone for Delta Dunia Group. Notably, the Group secured comprehensive financing facilities, including (i) a 6-year USD 750 million Syndicated financing facility with PT Bank BNI (Persero) Tbk and PT Bank Mandiri Tbk for refinancing and further growth plans; (ii) the first Shariah financing syndicated facility of USD 60 million from PT Bank Muamalat Tbk; and (iii) the first IDR bonds issuance of IDR 636 billion (USD 41 million), expanding beyond the Group’s existing USD bond facilities. Through the successful diversification of its capital sources, the Group has achieved favorable refinancing for the 2026 debt repayment obligations, which has improved its debt maturity profile.
Dian further added, “Delta Dunia Group has achieved record-low debt levels as a result of our strong financial discipline and the deleveraging of our balance sheet. Coupled with our proactive capital structure strategy, we were able to achieve a strong net cash position, which will ensure that the Group remains well-placed to weather current market uncertainties and identify opportunities for continued growth. Concurrently, our ESG commitments anchor our efforts in advancing the global shift towards a low-carbon economy. In 2023, our ESG efforts achieved a Sustainalytics score of 32, putting us in the second-highest performer in the global coal sub-industry and among the top 15% in the global oil and gas industry, highlighting our strong commitment to ESG principles. With a dual focus on fiscal responsibility and environmental stewardship, we are dedicated to driving profitability and increasing shareholder value, ensuring Delta Dunia Group’s resilience and prosperity in a sustainable future.”
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About PT Delta Dunia Makmur Tbk (Delta Dunia Group):
Established in 1990, PT Delta Dunia Makmur Tbk (Delta Dunia Group) is a prominent holding company operating in Indonesia and Australia. Our principal subsidiary, PT Bukit Makmur Utama (BUMA), is a leading provider of mining services to some of the largest coal producers in Indonesia and Australia (BUMA Australia Pty Ltd).
In 2023, Delta Dunia Group expanded its portfolio with the addition of two new subsidiaries: PT Bukit Teknologi Digital (B-TECH), offering comprehensive mining technology solutions that empower companies within the mining industry, and PT BISA Ruang Nuswantara (BIRU), a social entity dedicated to education, vocational schools, and fostering a circular economy.
Listed on the Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX Code: DOID), Delta Dunia Group is headquartered in Jakarta, Indonesia, and is supported by a workforce of over 16,000 employees across Indonesia and Australia.