Three friends walking around the streets of Vientiane on 3 March for the EU's "ForOurPlanet" campaign. (Photo: The Laotian Times)
The streets of Vientiane resembled a flowing river of blue shirts on Sunday, 3 March, as more than 500 people gathered at That Luang Square to join the European Union’s (EU) “ForOurPlanet” campaign.
The event aimed to raise awareness about the triple crisis of climate change, environmental degradation and biodiversity loss and to sensitize the public on the importance of taking care of nature.
Organized by the European Union Delegation to Laos, in collaboration with Team Europe partners including France, Germany, Hungary, Luxembourg, and Switzerland, the event culminated a nine-day campaign spanning from 18 to 27 January. This comprehensive effort aimed to raise awareness among the Lao population about Team Europe’s efforts in combating climate change and environmental challenges, including biodiversity protection, sustainable agriculture practices, forestry, and wastewater treatment.
Vientiane residents walk for the environment on 3 March, 2024. (Photo: The Laotian Times)
As dawn broke and the city roused from slumber on Sunday morning, participants from across Vientiane Capital, comprising environmental enthusiasts, local community members, and national and international diplomats, demonstrated their commitment to advocating healthier and more eco-conscious habits.
In her opening address, Ina Marčiulionytė, the EU Ambassador to Laos, stressed the significance of collective action in effecting meaningful change.
“We are making a big change through small steps,” she remarked, conveying the spirit of the campaign.
Ina Marčiulionytė, the EU Ambassador to Laos, taking a selfie with a runner. (Photo: The Laotian Times)
The highlight of the event was the promotion of sustainable practices through a biking and walking tour, allowing participants to engage in morning exercise amidst the early breeze while advocating for environmental sustainability.
But the campaign extended beyond the city streets; it also featured an interactive quiz on Facebook in the days leading up to the gathering. The quiz tested followers’ understanding of environmental issues and incentivized participation, promoting good mobility and a healthy lifestyle.
During the event, the EU delegation hosted an award ceremony for the three winners of the EU Facebook quiz, each receiving a bike and a helmet.
Supported by the Lao Cycling Association and Vientiane Municipality, the walking and cycling tour aimed to promote sustainable living and environmental awareness through collaboration with local organizations. This initiative aligned with the broader objectives of the “ForOurPlanet” campaign, uniting European delegations worldwide to address pressing challenges posed by climate change and environmental degradation.
The escalating impacts of climate change and rapid ecosystem degradation pose a pressing need to adopt collective action. Through the “ForOurPlanet” campaign, the EU and Team Europe in Laos aim to demonstrate solidarity with the global community grappling with the nature crisis. In addition to ongoing initiatives like the campaign, Team Europe’s collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry in Laos through a new program aims to commit to sustainable and inclusive agriculture and forestry sectors while enhancing local livelihoods, safeguarding forests, biodiversity, and addressing climate change.
KAOHSIUNG, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 March 2024 – Headed by Deputy Mayor Lo Ta-sheng, the Kaohsiung delegation to KUMAMOTO Industrial Revitalization EXPO 2024 and for a fact-finding tour of Kyushu has wound up a hugely rewarding journey. Over the course of the two-day expo, the Kaohsiung Pavilion hosted 830 international visitors, talked with 50 potential buyers, and garnered orders estimated at US$1,140,000. Above all, the visit proved a great success in arousing Japanese businesses’ interest in the port city of Kaohsiung. The Kaohsiung City Government’s efforts towards soliciting businesses and investments have indeed paid off in the form of a boost to international reputation.
Photo 1: A hearty response to the Kaohsiung Pavilion at the Kumamoto expo.
Deputy Mayor Lo said the latest expo was intended mainly to showcase Kumamoto’s resilience and extraordinary recovery in the wake of the 2016 earthquake and the flooding in July 2020. Above all, the welcome advent of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd. (TSMC) gave a further boost to its revitalization. Kaohsiung and Kumamoto are both semiconductor hubs: the former enjoys an edge in wafer foundry and packaging and testing while the latter excels in materials and equipment. To promote closer collaboration between the two cities, Lo explained, the Kaohsiung delegation comprised four local semiconductor companies: 4DMEN Technology Co., Ltd., Taiwan Valqua Engineering International Ltd., Gongin Precision Ind. Co., Ltd., and Advanced Echem Materials Co., Ltd. In addition to enhancing their brand visibility, they were excited to learn more about Kumamoto’s semiconductor needs and broaden their business reach accordingly.
Photo 2: A bustling scene at Kaohsiung’s business promotion presentation in Fukuoka.
Moreover, Shinya Iwashita, Chief Executive Officer of Tsuruya Department Store subsidiary Amanatsu Royal Co., Ltd., visited the Kaohsiung Pavilion at the invitation of the Kaohsiung City Government. After consultations with MAYUSHAN FOOD Co., Ltd., Joywell Cake Store Co., Ltd., and LE PONT, he lauded their dedication to R&D and impressive array of food products placing emphasis on both health and flavor. Tsuruya Department Store is optimistic about the potential of these delicacies and keen to usher them into the Japanese market at an early date.
Alongside its attendance at the Kumamoto Expo, the Kaohsiung City Government organized an investment promotion seminar at the startup hub Growth 1 in Fukuoka. The event attracted over 40 visitors from more than 10 startups in such fields as IOT, smart medical devices, and green energy. What followed was a string of lively discussions about possible cooperation. Hori Hironobu, director of the Fukuoka City Government’s Business Startup & Investment Promotion Department, said the city’s designation as a National Strategic Special Zone for startups in 2012 has made it an irresistible magnet attracting global startups to invest. Fukuoka looks forward to working with Kaohsiung to create a cross-border ecosystem that accommodates the startups of both Taiwan and Japan.
Liao Tai-hsiang, director-general of the Economic Development Bureau, Kaohsiung City Government, said that Fukuoka is home to many promising international startups while Kaohsiung boasts Asia’s New Bay 2.0 Park as well as multiple startup hubs and incubation centers. Given the two’s complementary development paths, there is ample room for bilateral cooperation in R&D, talent cultivation, startup interconnections, and industry exchanges, thereby providing their respective startups with fresh momentum for innovation. Japan’s startups are welcome to come to Kaohsiung and the city government is ready to provide them with one-stop services and whatever other assistance is needed.
The Kaohsiung delegation also visited the Fukuoka Hydrogen Station, the world’s first such facility offering energy sourced from sewage treatment. As a major industrial city committed to achieving net zero in 2050, Kaohsiung is keen to promote carbon reduction, stay up to date with the latest in green energy, and ultimately attain sustainable development. In Fukuoka, the delegation also called at the Kyushu Bureau of Economy, Trade and Industry and Kyushu University to discuss bolstering exchanges in the semiconductor industry and its talent. The consensus is for Kaohsiung and Kyushu to strengthen academic and technological cooperation, engage in closer industry-academic collaboration, and extend support for education and research, thereby making semiconductor companies of both sides more competitive going forward.
Hashtag: #Kaohsiung
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Thailand’s former Prime Minister, Yingluck Shinawatra (Photo: AP)
BANGKOK (AP) — A Thai court on Monday, 4 March, dropped a charge against former Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra, now living in exile, for mishandling government project expenditure in 2013.
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 March 2024 – Amari Pattaya, nestled at the serene northern edge of Pattaya Bay, Thailand, is thrilled to unveil its latest offering – the immersive Beach Lawn Glamping experience. Tailored for families, couples, and groups of friends, this captivating event takes place every Saturday on the resort’s green and lush lawn, set against the picturesque backdrop of Pattaya Bay’s mesmerising sunset. Just steps away lies a serene stretch of one of Thailand’s most popular beaches, adorned with golden sands and gently lapping waves, creating a personal tropical paradise. Entry is free, with both resort guests and locals invited to join the unforgettable evening, featuring delicious food and drink, arts and crafts, outdoor games, live music and welcoming hospitality amidst the balmy Thai evening air.
From 17:00 to 20:00, attendees are treated to a culinary journey featuring a delightful selection of meticulously crafted dishes and refreshing beverages, celebrating the essence of coastal living. Beach Lawn Glamping is more than just a gastronomic delight; it’s a sanctuary for creativity and exploration.
Starting from 17:30 to 20:00, guests of all ages can unleash their imagination and artistic flair through engaging arts and crafts activities, where every creation becomes a testament to the beauty of self-expression. As live music fills the air with rhythmic melodies from 18:00 to 20:00, attendees find themselves swept away by the charm of the occasion, dancing beneath the stars and forging connections that transcend language and culture.
Whether savouring exquisite flavours, indulging in creative pursuits, or losing themselves in the enchanting melodies, Beach Lawn Glamping promises an unforgettable experience for all who attend.
A slice of paradise on the pristine shores of Pattaya Bay, away from the hustle-and-bustle, Amari Pattaya is a luxurious, family-friendly resort, with spaces thoughtfully designed for that comforting home-from-home experience, with sand, sea and surf provided aplenty. With unparalleled views of the azure waters, golden sands and lush greenery, this iconic, tranquil resort embodies the essence of Thai hospitality. From its elegantly appointed rooms and suites to its world-class amenities, every aspect of Amari Pattaya is designed to offer guests an unforgettable stay. Whether lounging by the infinity pool, rejuvenating at the Breeze Spa, or savouring delectable cuisine at its signature restaurants, guests are treated to a truly unforgettable retreat and invited to discover the beauty of this Thai coastal paradise. Younger group members will be well-entertained with a comprehensive Kids Club, large pool complete with fountains and slides, and play park. Making family trips, multi-generational travel, or travelling with a group, easier than ever, Amari Pattaya offers 2-3 bedroom Amari Suites. The vibrant buzz of Pattaya’s modern city malls are also nearby for those looking to add shopping and exploration into their trip.
Prices at Amari Pattaya start from 3,250 THB per night (approximately GBP £71), based on two sharing a Deluxe room on a room only basis. Stay before 30th June 2024 and receive an exclusive 20% discount on food and beverages from the à la carte menu, when booked online using the ‘Web Exclusive Package’.For bookings, please visit: https://www.amari.com/pattaya/special-offers
Wins Malaysia Best Impact Investing Manager, Best Impacting Fund Manager in ASEAN, Malaysia Best Equity Manager, Malaysia CEO of the Year, Malaysia CIO of the Year, Malaysia Best House for Alternatives, Malaysia Most Improved Fund House & Malaysia Best Investor Education.
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 March 2024 – Kenanga Investors Berhad (“Kenanga Investors”) has received eight awards at the 2024 Best of the Best Awards held by the Hong Kong-based Asia Asset Management (“Awards”). Kenanga Investors was recognised for its exceptional performance in several categories, solidifying its position as a leading fund house in Malaysia and the ASEAN region.
Datuk Wira Ismitz Matthew De Alwis, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer, Kenanga Investors Berhad
Kenanga Investors received the following awards; Malaysia Best Impact Investing Manager, Malaysia Best Equity Manager, Malaysia Best House for Alternative, Malaysia Most Improved Fund House, Malaysia Best Investor Education, Best Impact Investing Manager in ASEAN.
In addition to the above, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer Datuk Wira Ismitz Matthew De Alwis was awarded Malaysia CEO of the Year, marking this the fifth year that he has received this prestigious award. Simultaneously, Chief Investment Officer, Lee Sook Yee was awarded her seventh Malaysia CIO of the Year title.
The investment landscape has been dominated by a host of macro issues, yet the firm’s focus has remained steadfast on identifying growth opportunities. “The global markets, especially in the United States, have been widely acknowledged as the performing markets of the year. Despite this, our global and ASEAN funds showcased remarkable resilience and performed well even amid adverse market conditions. This success is largely due to our strategic focus on regions and sectors that demonstrate robustness and are poised to benefit from cyclical trends”, says Datuk Wira De Alwis. The firm’s investment excellence is demonstrated in its 6th consecutive Best Equity Manager and 5th consecutive Best House for Alternatives awards.
Kenanga Investors’ leadership in sustainability and impact investing is demonstrated through its commitment to generating positive social and environmental outcomes alongside financial returns for its clients. “Today, our role and engagements with investee companies has evolved beyond raising awareness, to fostering in-depth, two-way conversations focusing on enhancing existing practices and developing structured strategies. As such, we are honoured to receive not one, but two awards recognising our efforts within this space, including Best Impact Investing Manager in ASEAN”, Datuk Wira De Alwis explains.
Continuing its trajectory of innovation, Kenanga Investors recently broadened its product portfolio with the introduction of the Kenanga Islamic Asia Pacific (ex Japan) Total Return Fund. This new fund diversifies into the global Asia Pacific region in order to capture growth opportunities and to cater to a wider range of investor preferences, particularly those seeking Shariah-compliant investment options. This, combined with the expansion of its distribution networks, growth of its client segments and improved operational efficiency has contributed to its second Most Improved Fund House title.
In 2024, the firm expects to bring to market new solutions; from strategies that incorporate AI to regional private credit opportunities, as well as broader private market solutions and sustainability-linked investments.
The Malaysia Best Impact Investing Manager award recognises a firm’s success in deploying impact investing strategies in either public or private markets to generate positive, measurable social and environmental impact alongside sustainable financial returns.
The Best Impact Investing Manager in ASEAN recognises a firm’s efforts in making a difference in deploying its impact investing strategy in either public or private markets, the research and investment process, and assets under management.
The Malaysia Best Equity Manager award is in recognition of the success of the fund house’s equity products within Malaysia’s domestic market given the challenging trading conditions and its abilities in capturing potential growth opportunities.
The Malaysia CEO of the Year award is in recognition of the CEO’s overall achievements, performance of funds, increase of assets under management and their demonstration of leadership in the market.
The Malaysia CIO of the Year award is based on the CIO’s achievements at the country level and the strategies employed to capture growth whilst navigating risks associated with the pandemic.
The Malaysia Best House for Alternatives award recognises the firm’s achievements in growing the alternatives market, its performance record, and its growth in client base.
The Malaysia Most Improved Fund House award recognises a manager’s strong financial performance by growth in revenues and profits in the past two years.
The Malaysia Best Investor Education recognises the fund house’s role in raising awareness about financial planning in order to enhance retirement savings, initiatives taken, and channels deployed, use of technology as well as the significance of these efforts at the country level.
Asia Asset Management is the world’s longest-running publication focused on Asia’s institutional asset management and pension fund industry. Its Best of The Best Awards recognises the finest performers in Asia from financial services companies and institutional investors to service providers whose influence and excellence expands beyond borders.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Kenanga Investors Berhad 199501024358 (353563-P)
We provide investment solutions ranging from collective investment schemes, portfolio management services, and alternative investments for retail, corporate, institutional, and high net worth clients via a multi-distribution network.
The Hong Kong-based Asia Asset Management’s 2024 Best of the Best Awards awarded KIB under the following categories, Malaysia Best Impact Investing Manager, Best Impact Investing Manager in ASEAN, Malaysia Best Equity Manager, Malaysia CEO of the Year, Malaysia CIO of the Year, Malaysia Best House for Alternatives, Malaysia Most Improved Fund House and Malaysia Best Investor Education.
At the Refinitiv Lipper Fund Awards Malaysia 2023, KIB won overall best Mixed Assets – Malaysia Pension Funds Group award for the third time. Accompanying this were individual fund wins awarded to:
Kenanga Malaysian Inc Fund for Best Equity Malaysia Diversified – Malaysia Provident Funds over 10 Years
Kenanga Managed Growth Fund for Best Mixed Asset MYR Flexible – Malaysia Provident Funds over 3 Years
Kenanga Managed Growth Fund for Best Mixed Asset MYR Flexible – Malaysia Provident Funds over 5 Years
Kenanga Managed Growth Fund for Best Mixed Asset MYR Flexible – Malaysia Provident Funds over 10 Years
The FSMOne Recommended Unit Trusts Awards 2023/2024 named Kenanga Growth Fund Series 2 as “Sector Equity – Malaysia Focused”, Kenanga Shariah Growth Opportunities Fund as “Sector Equity – Malaysia Small to Medium Companies (Islamic)” and Kenanga Shariah OnePRS Growth Fund as “Private Retirement Scheme – Growth (Islamic)”.
For the seventh consecutive year, KIB was affirmed an investment manager rating of IMR-2 by Malaysian Rating Corporation Berhad, since first rated in 2017. The IMR rating on KIB reflects the fund management company’s well-established investment processes and sound risk management practices. As at end-June 2023, most of KIB’s funds had performed better than benchmarks and were comparable to peers.
This Press Release was issued by Kenanga Group’s Marketing & Communications department.
Mekong river dolphin in Cambodia (Photo: Cambodia WWF_Gerry Ryan_WWF-Greater Mekong)
The Mekong River is facing a major crisis, with at least one in five fish species on the brink of extinction, according to a report drafted by 25 regional and global organizations.
HONG KONG SAR / MACAU / MAINLAND CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 4th March 2024 – Hong Kong Institute of Information Technology (HKIIT), a member institution of the Vocational Training Council (VTC), and Automated Systems (H.K.) Limited (ASL), a subsidiary of Automated Systems Holdings Limited (0771.HK) which is the unified technology services partner, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to jointly nurture IT talents, strengthen the IT talent pool in the Greater Bay Area, and promote vocational and professional education and training.
Top Left : (Front row, from left) HKIIT Vice-Principal Wing WONG, HKIIT Principal Dr. John HUI, VTC Deputy Executive Director Dr. Eric LIU, ASL Senior Vice President and CSA Automated (Macau) Limited General Manager Teresa LAU, ASL Vice President Commercial Sales Division Michael PANG and Automated Systems Holdings Limited Human Resources Director Fion CHAN, pose with attending guests. Top right: ASL Senior Vice President and CSA Automated (Macau) Limited General Manager Teresa LAU stated that ASL is committed to providing DevSecOps IT services to align with customers’ needs. She is glad to collaborate with HKIIT to nurture IT talents and contribute to the building of the Digital Bay Area. Bottom left: The MoU between Hong Kong Institute of Information Technology (HKIIT) and Automated Systems (H.K.) Limited (ASL) is signed by HKIIT Principal Dr. John HUI (first left) and Automated Systems Holdings Limited Human Resources Director Fion CHAN (first right), and witnessed by Vocational Training Council (VTC) Deputy Executive Director Dr. Eric LIU (second left) and ASL Senior Vice President and CSA Automated (Macau) Limited General Manager Teresa LAU (second right) Bottom right: HKIIT Principal Dr. John HUI remarks that HKIIT is committed to promoting vocational and professional education and training (VPET) in the field of information technology. The collaboration with ASL will provide HKIIT students with the opportunities to develop all-round skills required in the ever-changing information technology industry.
Under this MoU, ASL will provide students of HKIIT with industrial attachment opportunities to gain hands-on work experience with advanced technology, excellent process and experienced IT professionals, facilitating their career advancement in the IT industry. In addition, ASL will give priority to HKIIT graduates for full-time job interviews, demonstrating ASL’s emphasis on IT talents and enhancing the employment prospects of HKIIT students.
In addition to its focus on pre-employment training like Higher Diploma and Diploma of Foundation Studies programmes, the HKIIT recognises the importance of lifelong learning and professional development in the industry. To address this need, the HKIIT has established an in-service training service named as “SkillsUp”; with closer collaborations with industry partners, professionals and stakeholders to offer both reskilling and upskilling training programmes for the industry practitioners, corporate professionals and workforce. Under this collaboration with ASL, HKIIT will also provide skills retraining and upskilling courses for ASL employees through “SkillsUP” to meet the evolving needs of the digital age.
For over 50 years, ASL has been committed to providing industry-specific solutions, comprehensive network and security management services and omni-channel integrated managed services to customers in the Greater Bay Area and Asia Pacific. As the unified technology services partner, ASL accelerates organizations’ success by harnessing the power of unified technologies, resources, teamwork and shared goals, and has successfully cultivated numerous outstanding IT talents.
Through its partnership with ASL, HKIIT is committed to promoting vocational and professional education and training in the field of information technology. The collaboration will provide HKIIT students with the opportunities to develop all-round skills required in the ever-changing information technology industry. It also demonstrates HKIIT and ASL’s joint commitment to nurturing vocational professionals, promoting the development of the IT industry in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and working together to build the Digital Bay Area.
Hashtag: #HKIIT
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About HKIIT
The Hong Kong Institute of Information Technology (HKIIT) is a member institution of VTC, dedicated to offer IT and relevant technology programmes to nurture IT talents and to serve as an IT training and examination hub which will also give intensive and comprehensive support to the Government’s policies on innovation and technology (I&T), as well as the digital transformation of various industries. Website: www.hkiit.edu.hk
About ASL
Automated Systems Holdings Limited was listed on the Main Board of the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited in 1997 (Stock Code: 771). The Group’s business is based in Hong Kong and Macau and covers Asia Pacific Region, Europe and the United States. It is committed to providing professional and trustworthy information technology services to customers around the world. Its subsidiary Automated Systems (H.K.) Limited was established in 1973. As the unified technology services partner, its main business includes providing integrated managed services throughout the life cycle of IT projects, industry-specific solutions and comprehensive network and security managed services. For more information, please visit our web page at www.asl.com.hk
Testament to Yale’s innovative approach to customer safety, customers can have complete peace of mind about their home’s safety – even away from home
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 March 2024 – Yale is reinforcing its commitment to protecting its customers and their loved ones, their homes, and belongings this 2024 with the reach of its Smart Shop stores across the region, innovative products and refreshed Yale Home app.
True to its ‘Trusted every day’ tagline, Yale has a solid track record of 184 years of experience in providing utmost security to all, and is also moving forward in providing greater, more seamless access to its repertoire of products via its Smart Shop stores.
This includes Yale’s most recent introductions of Yale Luna Pro+ and Yale Kyra Pro, both of which are testament to Yale’s continuous innovative approach to integrating the consumer’s lifestyles into improved products for their safety and convenience.
Security in the palm of the homeowner’s hand
Customers can access and manage the aforementioned smart items via the refreshed Yale Home app. First designed to provide customers with total control and monitoring over their home’s security, the app has been improved with several smart features such as remote control, connected ecosystem, guest access and 24/7 monitoring.
The Yale Home app allows homeowners to lock and unlock their doors remotely, provide guests with access into their homes, and track how and when their doors are unlocked with just a few taps. This will enable homeowners to watch over their home even when they are away from home, anytime, anywhere.
Yale currently has 63 stores across the Southeast Asian region that acts as a one stop shop for all things smart. Yale Smart Shop also provides added value services as well such as free delivery, free installation, and warranties for selected smart products so customers can have peace of mind that they will be attended to with top quality service when the situation calls for it.
For more information on Yale’s smart product portfolio and offerings, please visit www.yalesmart.com. Customers can also locate the Smart Shop closest to them via the official website here.
Hashtag: #Yale
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Yale
At 184 years strong, Yale is a leading security brand that protects the people, places and things we love most. It secures millions of homes and businesses worldwide with its innovative mechanical locks, safes and smart locks for front doors, interior doors, cabinets, package deliveries and more. Yale is part of the ASSA ABLOY Group, the global leader in access solutions. Every day, we help billions of people experience a more open world. For more information, visit yalehome.com/sg.