Laos-China Railway has installed a timer to calculate the parking fee of vehicles entering and leaving the Vientiane railway station.
eWTP Arabia Capital – Bridging Growth between China and MENA
Asia PE-VC Summit one of the most popular events among the investment and startup communities. The Summit has attracted over 600 attendees from all over the world, who are all eager to explore new trends and sectoral bets in Asia’s constantly evolving markets against the pandemic backdrop.
Taking this opportunity, eWTPA has curated its closed-door high-level LP-only fireside chat session, together with Dealstreetasia.
Founded in 2019, eWTPA launched its first fund (Fund I) in same year, which is backed by the sovereign wealth fund of Saudi Arabia, Public Investment Fund (PIF) and eWTP Capital (Alibaba Group and Ant Finance Group). Within a short period of time, this US$400-million-fund has already invested into 16 companies across of digital infrastructure, core technology and platform, consumer and enterprise services which span enterprise services, cloud services, cyber security, fintech, cross-border supply chain, retail and consumer, e-commerce, logistics and digital entertainment and others, which are to work together and build a unique digital ecosystem in the Middle East and North African (MENA) region.
“When we first setup our base in MENA, Saudi Arabia is just opening its gate, as the country looks to transform from ‘an oil economy’ and to bring in technologies from the other side of the world, including China, where entrepreneurs and companies are seeking to expand globally,” said Mr. Jerry Li, Founding and Managing Partner of eWTPA.
Since eWTPA set foot at Saudi Arabia, its main goal is to build a healthy local corporate ecosystem in the country. When the country was first opening up, there was no infrastructure and no transparency. This is why eWTPA saw the gap that could be easily bridged up by bringing in matured Chinese technologies, enterprises and capital. The same apply to matured solutions in Southeast Asia.
“It is truly a golden time to invest in the MENA region,” said Mr. Li, who targets to help bridge the two economies with the support of LPs such as Alibaba Group and Saudi Arabia’s sovereign wealth fund Public Investment Fund (PIF). “Though regulatory challenge is one of the most difficult barriers for all companies that are looking to enter the MENA market, our expertise support and local knowledge will be able to help corporates build and grow their base in this growing market.”
Saudi Arabia is with rapid GDP growth of over 10% annually since the opening up of the country a few years ago. Since it is still a relatively young economy, it would require import of a lot of technologies to help build necessary infrastructure and a mature ecosystem. “Currently, the opportunities are primarily for large-scale corporates with more mature products and solutions, especially those that can benefit local governments and corporate clients,” Mr. Li concluded.
eWTPA brought in cloud and other technologies to help strengthen infrastructure locally. The company is also negotiating for free trade zones with the government with an aim to establish a healthy base for further future expansions.
Hashtag: #eWTPArabiaCapital
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About eWTP Arabia Capital
eWTP Arabia Capital (“eWTPA”) is a growth stage venture fund based in Saudi Arabia and China backed by marquee investors – eWTP Capital and the sovereign wealth fund of Saudi Arabia, Public Investment Fund (PIF). eWTPA is focused on building a local digital ecosystem in MENA by partnering with market leading Chinese businesses and providing a gateway for these companies to establish a strong and sustainable presence in the region. eWTPA takes pride in its ability to offer comprehensive support to its portfolio companies, empowering them to explore and succeed in strategic markets across the MENA region.
Established in 2019, eWTPA is now the preferred partner for Chinese technology giants seeking to enter the MENA region. Through its US$400 million Fund I it has invested in 16 companies in the digital sector, 13 of which have already established themselves successfully in Saudi Arabia. Investments include the hugely successful Saudi Cloud Computing Company (“SCCC”) the kingdom’s leading provider of cloud Services and J&T Logistics, which is now the fastest growing logistics provider in the country.
The fund’s core investment strategy is to transfer the latest technology and proven business models from China and Asia more broadly in order to fill a clear gap in its target MENA market. eWTPA focuses on the sectors of digital infrastructure, core technology and platform, consumer and enterprise services which span enterprise services, cloud services, cyber security, fintech, cross-border supply chain, retail and consumer, e-commerce, logistics and digital entertainment. To eWTPA, success is the ability to drive capital appreciation and to help elevate the digital eco-system in the MENA region.
Epicor Acquires MES Provider eFlex Systems, Expanding Industry 4.0 Capabilities to Modernize Manufacturing Production Processes
“I am thrilled to bring eFlex Systems into the Epicor family! Shop floors are a complex intersection of people, machines, robots, and materials, and it’s critical they work seamlessly together,” said Epicor CEO Steve Murphy. “People will continue to be at the heart of manufacturing, and our acquisition of eFlex Systems extends our ability to give Epicor customers the information they need to improve the user experience and unlock new levels of productivity.”
The eFlex Systems Manufacturing Integrated Platform (MIP®) enables manufacturers to manage and visualize global operations in real time, connecting devices, sensors, and machines with people to help operators build the right part, with the right tool, at the right setting in a safe and repeatable way. This helps manufacturers solve labor challenges by simplifying tasks and extending workers with connected devices which improves productivity.
Epicor customers will be able to digitize processes through operator guidance, alerts, traceability, and data collection at the individual task level. Workstations can be configured and connected to their environments through open protocols and tools such as RFID, MQTT, and Node-RED, enabling operators to seamlessly leverage IoT devices such as DC tooling, barcode readers, weight scales, pick lights, PLC’s, and others to complete the task at hand.
“We’ve always been focused at eFlex Systems on helping customers reimagine manufacturing through sustainable, world-class production processes,” said eFlex CEO Dan McKiernan. “By joining with Epicor, we’re furthering our mission to modernize manufacturing and bridge the data gap with cost-effective, easy-to-use solutions that drive efficiencies and throughput.”
Hashtag: #Epicor
About Epicor
Epicor Software Corporation equips hard-working businesses with enterprise solutions that keep the world turning. For nearly 50 years, Epicor customers in the automotive, building supply, distribution, manufacturing, and retail industries have trusted Epicor to help them do business better. Innovative Epicor solution sets are carefully curated to fit customer needs and built to respond flexibly to their fast-changing reality. With deep industry knowledge and experience, Epicor accelerates its customers’ ambitions, whether to grow and transform, or simply become more productive and effective. Visit www.epicor.com for more information.
Epicor and the Epicor logo are trademarks of Epicor Software Corporation, registered in the United States and other countries. Other trademarks referenced are the property of their respective owners. The product and service offerings depicted in this document are produced by Epicor Software Corporation. Results are not guaranteed, and each user’s experience will vary.
ERM announces new leadership appointments globally and APAC to strengthen growth momentum
Asia and Australia & New Zealand form twin strategic growth regions for APAC
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 6 October 2022 – ERM, the world’s largest pure play sustainability consultancy, has announced several senior appointments to strengthen its Asia Pacific and global leadership team and accelerate its business growth across markets.
Leadership changes in Asia Pacific
ERM will reorganize its regional business in Asia Pacific into Asia and Australia & New Zealand (ANZ). There are currently over 1,100 employees across 13 offices in its Asia Pacific network.
With the new structural change, the Asia operations will be helmed by Nat Vanitchyangkul, who moved up as Regional CEO for Asia from his previous role as Business Unit Managing Partner for South and Southeast Asia. Michael Gaggin continues to lead ERM’s business as ANZ Business Unit Managing Partner.
Liew Wei Chee takes on the role of Business Unit Managing Partner for South and Southeast Asia and reports to Nat. Additionally, Mark Errington, the incumbent Asia Pacific Regional CEO moves to his new role as Chairman and mergers and acquisitions (M&A) lead for Asia Pacific.
The new structure represents a strategic alignment of ERM’s business to harness the region’s growth potential and provides opportunities to deepen its services and solutions for clients in these markets.
Mr Vanitchyangkul, Regional CEO for Asia, ERM, said: “Collectively, the Asia Pacific is one of the fastest growing regions for ERM, expanding between 20 to 25 per cent annually. With this new team structure, we are well poised for growth to meet the intensifying need from organizations and governments to engage in sustainability across people, operations, and supply chains to track financial and ESG-related metrics. The opportunities for ERM in Asia will also move in tandem with the momentum of ESG transition in key growth sectors such as technology, pharmaceuticals and chemicals, financing, transportation and logistics and renewable energy, to cite a few.”
Growth agenda alignment
At ERM’s global headquarters in London, Jaideep Das has been appointed as Global Leader of Services and Innovation, responsible for evolving ERM’s service lines to meet changing client needs with a particular focus on tech enablement. James Stacey becomes ERM’s Global Leader of Clients and Sectors, working to maximize the firm’s competitive position and open up new market opportunities.
Sabine Hoefnagel has taken on a new role as Global Leader of Sustainability and Risk, helping to ensure that ERM’s own risk management and sustainability commitments are aligned with initiatives designed to build ERM’s brand in the market as the number one global sustainability consulting firm.
New roles across digital, partnerships and acquisitions
ERM has also created new roles to support its growth agenda and respond to evolving market demands. Thomas Achhorner has joined the firm as Head of Digital Products and Data Analytics, with responsibility for driving ERM’s ESG product development activities to meet clients’ increasing needs for tech-enabled capabilities and digital solutions. Thomas will also oversee strategic developments around ERM’s data assets and platforms in collaboration with technology industry partners.
Kushal Mashru has joined as Head of Strategic Partnerships and will focus on maximizing ERM’s partner ecosystem. Kushal will work closely with Thomas and ERM’s broader leadership team to drive value from existing relationships as well as generate new opportunities to collaborate with digital enterprises, technology providers, clients and firms operating within ERM’s competitive landscape.
ERM has welcomed Samer Ghosn as the firm’s new Head of Corporate Development, with responsibility for the execution of its acquisition strategy. Samer will also work with ERM’s ecosystem to target new Joint Ventures and investments.
Driving talent development with new Chief People Officer
Ellis Griffith has joined as ERM’s new Chief People Officer to further establish the firm as the leading destination for sustainability consulting talent and create new opportunities for the company’s 7,500+ people. Previously at McKinsey & Company, Ellis will also play a leading role in ensuring that ERM’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion is embedded across the business.
Tom Reichert, ERM Group CEO, said: “I am delighted to announce these new appointments that will help to accelerate ERM’s growth journey as we partner with clients to navigate this constantly evolving market.
“Our depth of technical knowledge combined with strategic transformation capabilities sets ERM apart. These new appointments will help us to maximize these strengths, drive innovation and ultimately increase our impact through the services we offer and the opportunities we provide to our people.
“This is a really exciting time for the company as we work with our clients and the wider ecosystem to shape a sustainable future with the world’s leading organizations.”
Hashtag: #ERM
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About ERM:
ERM is the business of sustainability.
As the largest global pure play sustainability consultancy, ERM partners with the world’s leading organizations, creating innovative solutions to sustainability challenges and unlocking commercial opportunities that meet the needs of today while preserving opportunities for future generations.
ERM’s diverse team of 7,500+ world-class experts in over 170 offices across 39 countries supports clients across the breadth of their organizations to operationalize sustainability. Through ERM’s deep technical expertise, clients are well-positioned to address their environmental, health, safety, risk, and social issues. ERM calls this capability its “boots to boardroom” approach – a comprehensive service model that allows ERM to develop strategic and technical solutions that advance objectives on the ground or at the executive level. For more information, please visit www.erm.com.
Lao Economy Suffers Setback from a Weakening Kip
According to a report by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Kip’s value depreciated by 37.4 percent against the US dollar and 32.9 percent against the Thai baht between January to August in official markets.
Laos Loses to Iran in First Match at AFC U17 Asia Cup 2023 Qualifiers
The Laos U17 football team played their first match against Iran on October 5 in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, and lost with a score of 0-3.
Despite Decreasing Covid Cases, Health Experts Ask People to Remain Cautious
The Hygiene and Health Promotion Department of the Ministry of Health has urged people to keep complying with Covid-19 regulations despite very few cases being reported on a daily basis.
Victoria Facelift Clinches Her World Spa Award For Best Skin-Rejuvenating Facial Treatment in Singapore
Amidst stiff competition in Her World Spa Awards 2022: Best Facial Treatments in Singapore, Victoria Facelift secures not one but two distinguished awards, with their signature Power-Lift Facial Treatment being crowned as the best skin-rejuvenating facial treatment in the whole of Singapore.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 5 October 2022 – The battle against ageing skin is one constantly waged, with many turning solely to luxury cosmetics in search of an effective solution. However, those in Singapore looking to repair skin ageing symptoms can simply visit Victoria Facelift for skincare treatments with proven results.

Her World Spa Awards was first created in 2011 to bring the top fashion, beauty, and lifestyle options to Singapore’s modern women. This year’s selection of the best facial treatments in Singapore sees an impressive suite of facial options for numerous nuanced needs, with Victoria Facelift winning two distinct awards for the best skin-rejuvenating and eye-lifting facial treatments.
The former was given to Victoria Facelift for their highly regarded Power-Lift Facial Treatment, which has been featured in several major publications over the years. Leveraging unique anti-ageing formulation and state-of-the-art machinery, Victoria’s Power-Lift Facial Treatment repairs ageing skin through means that are entirely non-invasive, while providing instant, visible results and healthy, glowing skin.
Those looking to naturally regain younger-looking skin can simply visit Victoria Facelift for their award-winning Power-Lift Facial Treatment at any of their locations in Singapore.
The Victoria Power-Lift Facial Treatment
Surgical facelift procedures have surged in popularity, with countless women and men alike opting to go under the knife for an improved facial contour and diminished fine lines and wrinkles. However, invasive procedures such as injections and fillers can cause swelling, bruising, and pain, while yielding results that look stiff and unnatural with frozen facial muscles and complexions that remain rough and dry.
Victoria’s Power-Lift Facial Treatment, on the other hand, gives natural, younger-looking skin and radiant, hydrated complexions that come along with no negative side-effects whatsoever. Instead, replacing the common cons are the stimulation of natural collagen production and instant V-lift and wrinkle reduction via thoroughly relaxing facial sessions.
The unique formula used in Victoria’s Power-Lift Facial Treatment comprises of powerful antioxidants and skin peptides—such as hydrolysed collagen, hibiscus abelmoschus seed extract, and epidermal growth factor proteins—that effectively repair ageing skin, tighten saggy skin, and smoothen fine lines and wrinkles.
Sophisticated microcurrent machines are also used in conjunction with the special formulation to penetrate ingredients deeper into the skin’s layers, thereby activating skin cells to build up elasticity for that youthful firmness and bouncier skin.
Personalised for the Best Possible Results
Victoria’s Power-Lift Facial Treatment is more than a generic facial service that merely promises results; it entails a customised service and solution that is personalised for each customer’s nuanced needs and consist of the following:
- One-on-one consultation with a professional skincare consultant
- Computerised skin scans that identify root causes of each individual’s skin problems
- Customised Power-Lift Facial Treatment sessions with systematic targeting of identified causation points
- Constant monitoring and adaptation throughout the course of the treatment programme.
Ageing skin concerns that can be treated via Victoria’s Power-Lift Facial Treatment include:
- Fine lines, wrinkles, and crow feet
- Loose, sagging skin
- Wide, prominent jawline
- Double chin
- Dehydrated Skin
- Water retention
On top of their award-winning Power-Lift Facial Treatment, Victoria Facelift also offers eye-lifting facial treatments, skin hydration facial treatments, and their very own skincare products such as the V-Lift Cream that complements their signature Power-Lift Facial Treatment for enhanced results. You can also check out Victoria Facelift reviews here.
Hashtag: #VictoriaFacelift
About Victoria Facelift
Victoria Facelift commits themselves to crafting treatments with specific individual ageing skin conditions in mind. Each and every of their skincare treatment programmes are customised to each customer’s unique lifestyle, habits, and needs, such that they achieve the best results possible from each facial treatment session.
Find out more about Victoria Facelift, and
visit their gallery today for the best skincare tips and tricks.