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Tia Lee unveils music video for her new song “GOODBYE PRINCESS” produced by Grammy-winning producer Swizz Beatz

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach – 13 December 2022 – Tia Lee Yu Fen unveiled the music video for her new single “GOODBYE PRINCESS, which has garnered record-breaking attention in its own right, following hot on the heels of her six-episode pre-release animation series – which racked up over 100 million views in its own right. The new music video’s success further cements Tia’s status as a global C-Pop star and one of the influential artists right now. It also goes down in history as the first-ever Chinese song produced by Grammy winning producer Swizz Beatz.

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The theme of Tia’s new song is one of empowering to look beyond the role that society defines for them, and seeking either the courage or the help to create a better future. It reflects Tia’s own journey in the entertainment industry, which at times was bruising, despite the many highs she has achieved so far.

Speaking on the ambitions of the new song and the message behind it, Tia Lee said: “I hope that “Goodbye Princess” can be a rallying call for women to embrace their inner strength and support each other in realising their own truth.”

Goodbye Princess” was produced by Grammy award winning producer Swizz Beatz, who is best known for his work with global music icons like Madonna, Britney Spears, and Justin Bieber. The new song grants Tia Lee another record, as she becomes the first C-pop star to work with the legendary producer.

In addition to working with Swizz Beatz, Tia also collaborated with Los Angeles-based studio Actual Objects for the song’s music video. The multi-disciplinary studio and its creative team has long attracted international brands and artists with their stunning portfolio of work, including projects for The North Face, Nike and Travis Scott.

Set in a hyper pop fantasy world, the music video charts the metamorphosis of a heroine who transforms from an idealised princess like figure living a sheltered life, into a more authentic and braver persona – ready to take on the world. The success of “Goodbye Princess” sends a strong and message to fans around the world who also bear the brunt of society’s judgment. Opening up her deepest emotions, Tia hopes to send her fans inspiration and empowerment via the music.

Hashtag: #TiaLee

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

myhalo: Envisioning A World With Zero E-Waste

Local tech group PC Dreams launches myhalo, a holistic and integrated platform to upcycle, trade-in, repair, and extend the lives of personal computers and mobile devices

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 13 December 2022 – In their quest to lessen the impact of e-waste from personal computers and mobile devices on our environment, and in envisioning a future free of e-waste, local tech group, PC Dreams, has opened myhalo CircularXchange, at Bugis Junction.

According to reports, a record 48.6 million tons (53.6 million metric tonnes) of e-waste was generated in 2019, and mobile devices contribute approximately 50% to the e-waste produced by corporations, adversely affecting our environment, and based on current trends reports predict the total amount of e-waste generated worldwide will reach 67 million tons (74 million metric tonnes) by 2030. In addition, in a recent article by The World Economic Forum, out of 16 billion mobile phone, 5.3 billion will become e-waste just this year alone.

Considered a first of its type in the world, myhalo will serve as a physical and online space for the promotion of learning, changing the way we use mobile devices, advocating the importance of a circular economy, and raising awareness of e-wastes and its impact on the world. It will be a fully-integrated platform for consumers and corporations to effortlessly upcycle, trade-in, repair, and purchase refurbished devices, or donate old equipment while ensuring that all data and sensitive information are securely deleted in the process.

Beyond that, myhalo will also bridge like-minded communities, and strategic and academic partners, to promote meaningful dialogue and exchange of ideas in a collective effort to change the way we use our digital devices and significantly reduce e-waste, which is aligned with the Singapore government’s vision Green Plan 2030.

One such initiative is an ongoing study embarked on by myhalo that aims to determine how much the carbon footprint of a device could be reduced if the device’s lifespan was extended till it became both technically and functionally obsolete versus an average use of 5 years, for example. Such studies, according to Mr Tan Ching Hwee, Founder of myhalo, would equip policymakers, service providers and consumers with data on the impacts of their decisions and help them make more informed choices.

Another key service rolled out by myhalo is the S$1.5M Quote & Go system, Singapore’s first contactless programme that intelligently and accurately assesses the trade-in value of a consumer’s digital device, with the capability of churning out over 150,000 possible outcomes with a guaranteed trade-in price. The AI- backed system significantly reduces any hassle of trading in one’s devices in a bid to promote more users to trade in their devices rather than simply throwing them away.

Inspired by European countries, such as France and Germany, where citizens are given subsidies for repairs to extend the life of their digital devices and thus reducing e-waste, myhalo has rolled out a campaign that encourages consumers to declutter and donate their old or unused digital and mobile devices, including routers, modems, power banks, and even thumb drives, in exchange for an immediate S$30 reduction, when consumers start their zero e-waste lifestyle with them though the purchase of refurbished, pre-loved mobile phones, tablets, and laptops, or to offset any repair costs on devices, at myhalo CircularXchange. The devices donated will be either recycled conscientiously if they are deemed functionally obsolete or irreparable, or given to the needy after proper data erasure and refurbishment.

“We all have a role to play in sustainable consumption and it starts with a change in our mindsets and behaviours,” explains Ching Hwee, who was the recent winner of the prestigious Entrepreneur of the Year Award 2022 (EYA), by ASME & Rotary Club. “With myhalo, we are able to develop an ecosystem to raise consciousness to care for the environment.”

As to plans for the future, Ching Hwee added, “We will be working closely with NGOs to benefit needy individuals with refurbished mobile devices, and also develop programmes to educate the students and the general public on e-waste and what are the preventive solutions they can adopt currently.”

Just as nature is circular, where everything is transformed and not discarded, myhalo aims to restore the circular way in which we use our devices, rather than the linear mindset of a ‘disposable’ culture in which we were brought up with.

Hashtag: #myhalo

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

Young Lao Gamers Win Bronze at World Esport Competition

Lao Esport team (Photo: Lao Esport Federation).

The Lao Esports Federation team was placed third in the Dota 2 competition at the International Esports Federation (IESF) 14th World Esports Championship 2022 in Bali, Indonesia on Saturday.

Laos Labor Ministry Reports Employment Rate of Over 97 Percent

Lao construction workers.

The Minister of Labor and Social Welfare provided information on the labor market in the recent National Assembly session on Friday, revealing that 2.4 million, or 97.6% of all eligible people, are now employed.

CPA Australia: Half of accountants tip stronger Hong Kong economy amid property price falls

  • Majority in survey forecast Hong Kong’s economy to grow or remain unchanged in 2023
  • Over half of accounting and finance professionals bracing for property price falls
  • Forty-three per cent predict company revenue growth

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 13 December 2022 – Almost half of finance and accounting professionals are cautiously optimistic about Hong Kong’s economic future with 47 per cent expecting GDP growth in 2023, a new survey from CPA Australia shows.

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(from left to right)
Mr Cliff Ip FCPA (Aust.) – Divisional Deputy President 2022, CPA Australia – Greater China
Mr Eden Wong FCPA (Aust.) – Divisional President 2022 and Chairman of Financial Services Committee, CPA Australia – Greater China
Mr Samuel Lung FCPA (Aust.) – Divisional Deputy President 2022 and Deputy Chairperson of Continuing Professional Development Committee, CPA Australia – Greater China
Mr Robert Lui FCPA (Aust.) – Divisional Councillor 2022, CPA Australia – Greater China

Thirteen per cent expect the economy will remain stable in 2023. CPA Australia’s latest survey on Hong Kong’s economic and business outlook forecasts a potential economic bounce back from 2022’s contraction.

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“After managing through a difficult year and facing an uncertain global economic environment next year, our respondents are cautiously optimistic,” CPA Australia 2022 Divisional President of Greater China Eden Wong FCPA said.

“Forty-seven per cent of respondents believe that Hong Kong’s economy will grow. The easing of COVID restrictions domestically and Hong Kong’s reconnection with the world have contributed to this confidence boost.”

Respondents were less positive about the property market, with more than half expecting price falls in 2023. Meanwhile, 59 per cent expect tourism-reliant retail property values to decline.

“The government could consider reviewing the extra stamp duties on property transactions and setting out plans to boost tourism.”

Business sentiment is improving, with 43 per cent of respondents predicting their company’s revenue will grow in 2023. However, some expect a challenging year ahead. More than one in five forecast their company’s revenue will decline next year.

Many businesses are planning a prudent approach with a focus on efficiency and cost management. Four-in-ten expect their company will freeze headcount while 31 per cent expect an increase. Forty-seven per cent expect their salaries will grow in 2023. Talent shortages (42 per cent) will be the biggest test for businesses in 2023, followed by policy and regulatory changes (32 per cent) and weak demand (30 per cent).

“Hong Kong businesses have shown high levels of resilience in the face of adversities, but many of these challenges will persist next year.”

“It’s essential to quickly resume restriction-free cross-border travel and return to normal economic activity as soon as possible. Many neighbouring economies are aggressively luring investors and talent. Hong Kong should be taking advantage of its competitive advantages, including its super-connector status, to avoid lagging our competitors. Measures unveiled in the Chief Executive’s Policy Address to attract businesses and talent to Hong Kong are a good step.

“We shouldn’t underestimate the impacts of policy and regulatory changes at home and abroad on Hong Kong. For example, COVID-related travel restrictions, changes in accounting standards and developments in the international tax space. We suggest the government and regulators to engage frequently with stakeholders on policy consultation ensure changes are effective.”

More than half of respondents believe strengthening Hong Kong’s position as an international financial centre will improve its international competitiveness. While low and simple tax system is the biggest advantage to strengthen this role in the next three years.

“To consolidate the city’s position as an international finance centre, Hong Kong should continue strengthening its international ties. We expect Hong Kong to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership and sign more free trade agreements with other jurisdictions.

“We also look forward to seeing investment and talent-attraction initiatives from the Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises. We urge the government to introduce more measures to unleash the potential of emerging sectors such as green and sustainable finance and further support innovation and technology.”

The survey respondents included 210 Hong Kong-based accounting and finance professionals.

Hashtag: #CPAAustralia

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

About CPA Australia

CPA Australia is one of the largest professional accounting bodies in the world, with more than 170,000 members in over 100 countries and regions, including more than 22,200 members in Greater China. CPA Australia has been operating in Hong Kong since 1955 and opened our Hong Kong office in 1989. Our core services include education, training, technical support and advocacy. CPA Australia provides thought leadership on local, national and international issues affecting the accounting profession and public interest. We engage with governments, regulators and industries to advocate policies that stimulate sustainable economic growth and have positive business and public outcomes. Find out more at

Laos Sees a Trade Deficit of USD 230 Million in October

Workers load Thai goods for sale in Laos onto a Laotian-flagged ship at a pier in Mukdahan province. | (photo: PATTARAPONG CHATPATTARASILL)

Laos recorded a trade deficit of USD 230 million in October, according to the latest information from the Lao Trade Portal.

Kenanga Group Wins 3 Awards At The UN Global Compact Malaysia-Brunei Sustainability Performance Awards

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach – 13 December 2022 – Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad (“Kenanga Group” or “The Group“) was presented with three awards at the coveted United Nations Global Compact Network Malaysia & Brunei (“UNGCMYB“) Sustainability Performance Awards 2022.

From left to right: Ismail Harith Merican, Non-Independent Non-Executive Director of Kenanga Investment Bank Datuk Wira Ismitz Matthew De Alwis, Chief Executive Officer of Kenanga Investors Berhad Datuk Chay Wai Leong, Group Managing Director of Kenanga Investment Bank Chuah Sze Phing, Group Chief Sustainability Officer and Head of Group Marketing and Communications Norazian Binti Ahmad Tajuddin, Independent Non-Executive Director of Kenanga Investment Bank Kanagaraj Lorenz, Independent Non-Executive Director of Kenanga Investment Bank Faroze Nadar, Executive Director of United Nations Global Compact Network Malaysia & Brunei
From left to right:
Ismail Harith Merican, Non-Independent Non-Executive Director of Kenanga Investment Bank
Datuk Wira Ismitz Matthew De Alwis, Chief Executive Officer of Kenanga Investors Berhad
Datuk Chay Wai Leong, Group Managing Director of Kenanga Investment Bank
Chuah Sze Phing, Group Chief Sustainability Officer and Head of Group Marketing and Communications
Norazian Binti Ahmad Tajuddin, Independent Non-Executive Director of Kenanga Investment Bank
Kanagaraj Lorenz, Independent Non-Executive Director of Kenanga Investment Bank
Faroze Nadar, Executive Director of United Nations Global Compact Network Malaysia & Brunei

Kenanga was awarded for:

  • Partnership for the Goals Recognition
  • Sustainable Product Recognition
  • Sustainability Awareness and Employee Engagement Recognition

“We would like to thank United Nations Global Compact Network for the awards and ongoing support. They serve as an encouragement for the Group to further strengthen our commitment and excellence towards sustainability,” commented Datuk Chay Wai Leong, Group Managing Director, Kenanga Group.

“We still have a long way to go and we look forward to continue advancing our sustainability strategy in the years to come – one that delivers prosperity together with meaningful outcome for people and planet,” added Datuk Chay.

UNGCMYB’s Executive Director, Faroze Nadar remarked, “We are proud to have accountable businesses as part of UNGC global network. Kenanga Group has done much to advance sustainability in their industry and we are pleased to recognise their efforts. Congratulations Kenanga and we hope this will inspire other financial institutions to be change agents for a sustainable nation”.

The Group was awarded for its launch of sustainable products, which cover the Kenanga Sustainability Series – a suite of multi-asset class products rooted in sustainability considerations to advance long-term financial growth for investors and to generate social and financial value for surrounding communities.

In addition, the Group was also recognised for its effort for sustainability awareness and employee engagement. In accelerating group-wide capacity building, 95% of its workforce nationwide completed the UN Global Compact’s introduction to sustainability e-learning modules, on top of desk-top quizzes. The Group also actively engage its employees through various sustainability awareness programmes such as #GreenAtHome, a month-long interactive event for the last 6 consecutive years to raise environmental awareness.

The Partnerships for Goals award was derived from the Group’s collaborations with various organisations to drive the different aspects of sustainability.

“This year, as we focus on expanding financial inclusion through digitalisation, we joined hands with the Ant Group to develop Malaysia’s first wealth SuperApp, which is engineered to provide access to the world of investing to millions of Malaysians,” said Datuk Chay Wai Leong, Group Managing Director, Kenanga Group.

In terms of partnerships within the community, the Group drives the award-winning programme – the HumanKind Project – designed to empower social enterprises such Café Includes, a café run by people with disabilities under the Dialogue Includes All Academy, as well as, Silent Teddies Bakery an enterprise run by a group of talented hearing-impaired bakers.

With over a decade of support towards these social enterprises, the Group continues to raise funds, generate awareness, and volunteer assistance to bring about positive change and improvements to the under-privileged individuals and families.

Hashtag: #Kenanga

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

About the UNGCMYB Sustainability Performance Awards

The Sustainability Performance Awards programme was initiated by UN Global Compact Network Malaysia & Brunei to recognise the continuous efforts of all its Participants and to inspire others to make sustainability an integral part of their business strategies. For more information on the awards, please visit .

For more information on Kenanga Group, please visit .

About Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad (15678-H)

Established for more than 45 years, Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad (the Group) is a financial group in Malaysia with extensive experience in equity broking, investment banking, treasury, Islamic banking, listed derivatives, investment management, wealth management, structured lending and trade financing with strong foundations in regulatory compliance and risk management.

An innovative and established home-grown brand, the Group’s digital ambition includes building a robust digital ecosystem that meets the needs of its clients and businesses. Some of its game-changing products include Malaysia’s fully online digital stockbroking platform Rakuten Trade and a fully A.I. robo-advisor, Kenanga Digital Investing. The Group also launched Malaysia’s first securities broking e-wallet, Kenanga Money, paved the way in AI-led Quan and algorithmic trading, kick-started a revolutionary supply chain financing solution for SMEs and made inroads into the digital assets space through its investment in Tokenize Technology (M) Sdn. Bhd.

The Group has garnered a host of awards and accolades reflecting its strong market position. It was awarded under the categories of Highest Returns to Shareholder Over Three Years, Best Overall Equities Participating Organisation by Bursa Malaysia, Best Overall Derivatives Trading Participant, Best Structured Warrant Issuer, Best Retail Equities Participating Organisation, Best Institutional Equities Participating Organisation Investment Bank; along with Best Trading Participant and Best Institutional Equities Participating Organisation and for Equity and Financial Derivatives for 18 consecutive years. The Group was also accorded the title of Best Institutional Derivatives Trading category by Bursa Malaysia.

The Group continues to be a regular and repeat recipient of distinguished industry accolades, such as the Lipper, Fundsupermart and Morningstar awards. Rakuten Trade, Malaysia’s first fully digital securities broker in 2017 via a joint venture with Japanese fintech giant Rakuten Securities Inc was also named Malaysia’s fintech company of the year in 2018 by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC). For its continued efforts towards community outreach and employee volunteerism, the Group was awarded the coveted Company of the Year award for environmental and sustainability at Sustainability & CSR Malaysia Awards 2021. The Group is also a Participant of the United Nations Global Compact and adheres to its principle-based approach to responsible business.

Today, Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad is an award-winning leading independent investment bank in the country with a continuous commitment to driving collaboration, innovation, digitalisation, and sustainability in the marketplace.

Police Crackdown on Almost 5,000 Drug Cases in 11 Months

A joint drug bust between Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia resulted in the seizure of more than 32 million methamphetamine pills | Photo credit: Reuters

Lao authorities revealed in a meeting on Thursday at the National Assembly of Laos that local police have succeeded in solving 4,407 drug cases until November this year.