SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 July 2025 – The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) and the Shanghai Institute of Certified Public Accountants (SHICPA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today to advance the international development of the accountancy profession and foster deeper collaboration between the accounting communities of Singapore and China.
Through this collaboration, ISCA and SHICPA aim to promote the development of the accounting profession in Shanghai and Singapore, with a strong focus on professional competencies of accounting professionals and international business practices. As part of efforts to build a robust pipeline of globally attuned professionals equipped to meet the evolving demands of today’s dynamic business landscape, both institutes will jointly organise a delegation of more than 20 accounting practitioners from Shanghai to participate in the “Singapore Intensive Training Programme”, conducted by ISCA in Singapore.
The programme aims to:
Enhance the professional competencies and global perspectives of participating accounting professionals
Promote financial and accounting sector exchanges between Singapore and China
Encourage cultural integration and the development of soft skills
Support cross-border investment cooperation and contribute to global sustainable development goals
The MOU is part of ISCA’s broader efforts to further its global footprint and collaborations with other professional accountancy bodies and universities worldwide. Earlier this year, ISCA signed MOUs with Xi’an Jiaotong-Liverpool University and Nanjing University of Finance & Economics. This partnership with SHICPA marks a significant step in deepening mutual cooperation and knowledge exchange between Singapore and China – two important hubs in the global financial landscape.
The MOU was signed today by Ms Judy Ng, Vice President of ISCA, and Mr Fang Yifeng, Vice President of SHICPA, during an official delegation visit by SHICPA to Singapore.
Ms Judy Ng, Vice-President of ISCA, said: “This collaboration with SHICPA reflects ISCA’s ongoing commitment to raising professional standards and strengthening global ties within the accountancy profession. By sharing knowledge and expertise across borders, we not only support the development of individual professionals, but also contribute to the resilience and competitiveness of our firms and economies.”
Mr Fang Yifeng, Vice-President of SHICPA, said: “We are pleased to partner with ISCA to offer our members the opportunity to gain global perspectives and practical insights in Singapore. This programme represents a meaningful step in strengthening people-to-people ties and fostering professional exchange between Shanghai and Singapore, which are both important financial centres in the region.”
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA)
The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) is the national accountancy body of Singapore with over 39,000 ISCA members making their stride in businesses across industries in Singapore and around the world. ISCA members can be found in over 40 countries and members based out of Singapore are supported through 12 overseas chapters in 10 countries.
Established in 1963, ISCA is an advocate of the interests of the profession. Complementing its global mindset with Asian insights, ISCA leverages its regional expertise, knowledge, and networks with diverse stakeholders to contribute towards the advancement of the accountancy profession.
ISCA administers the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification programme and is the Designated Entity to confer the Chartered Accountant of Singapore – CA (Singapore) – designation.
ISCA is a member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide, a global family that brings together the members of leading institutes to create a community of over 1.8 million Chartered Accountants and students in more than 190 countries.
Luang Prabang Power Donates Dhamma Hall to Wat Longkhoun Srikhounnaram.
On 3 July, Luang Prabang Power Company Limited (LPCL), developer of the Luang Prabang Hydroelectric Power Project and a subsidiary of CK Power Public Company Limited, funded and donated a newly built dhamma practice hall to Wat Longkhoun Srikhounnaram in Chomphet District, Luang Prabang Province.
A newly built dhamma practice hall to Wat Longkhoun Srikhounnaram in Chomphet District, Luang Prabang Province.
The initiative, aligned with UNESCO’s conservation principles, aims to preserve the spiritual and cultural significance of the temple. The new hall offers a peaceful space for meditation and learning, open to both locals and visitors.
Sengthong Lueyang, Head of the World Heritage Division, Department of Information, Culture and Tourism, added that all renovation and new construction at the World Heritage Site must comply with UNESCO’s guidelines. “This project was closely overseen by relevant authorities to ensure architectural integrity and alignment with heritage standards.”
A spokesperson from LPCL stated, “We are proud to support a project that reflects our respect for Luang Prabang Town’s cultural roots. As a company operating in this historic town, we are committed to being a good neighbor—growing alongside the community and helping preserve its identity. This dhamma hall stands as a symbol of that shared commitment.”
In parallel with the donation, LPCL also distributed “Happiness Sharing Bags” to residents of Chiangman Village and sports equipment to local students, further supporting community well-being.
Wat Longkhoun Srikhounnaram, a UNESCO World Heritage property, dates back to 1791 and holds deep cultural and religious significance.
Phra Sombath Somepanno, Abbot of Wat Longkhoun, said, “This new dhamma hall, supported by LPCL, will greatly enhance our capacity to welcome practitioners and promote the dhamma.”
Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn & Suites Vientiane have announced the launch of CTC Laos Marketing 2025, a two-day seminar and workshop aimed at helping marketers, online sellers, and content creators in Laos keep pace with the fast-changing marketing landscape.
DUBAI, UAE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 July 2025 – Following Roman Ziemian’s influential insights into the Gulf Cooperation Council’s (GCC) AI startup boom in June 2025, Roman Ziemian Mobility has released a new feature article titled “Roman Ziemian: Champion in Motorsports and Advocate for Arts and Culture.” The article offers an in-depth exploration of Roman Ziemian’s extraordinary dual legacy—combining elite motorsport achievements with Roman Ziemian’s steadfast commitment to advancing arts, education, and cultural preservation.
This feature follows the overwhelming response to Roman Ziemian’s recent interview on the rise of AI innovation in the GCC, where he emphasized the region’s potential to lead in globally impactful, culturally grounded technological solutions.
Motorsport Excellence: A Legacy of Leadership With over 20 years of experience and multiple championship titles, Roman Ziemian has cemented his status as one of the most accomplished figures in global GT and endurance racing. The article highlights his strategic approach to racing, technical expertise, and relentless pursuit of excellence that have defined his career.
“Motorsport is not just about speed; it’s about driving innovation, discipline, and creating a legacy that inspires,” Roman Ziemian shared.
A Cultural Vision Beyond the Track Roman Ziemian’s influence extends beyond motorsport into the realm of cultural advocacy. As a devoted patron of the arts, he has supported initiatives spanning classical music, theater, and visual arts. His philanthropic efforts focus on nurturing emerging talent, fostering creativity, and preserving cultural heritage in both Europe and the Middle East.
Key Highlights from the Feature Include:
“Success is not solely defined by podium finishes,” Roman Ziemian states in the feature. “It’s about creating lasting value—on the track, in the arts, and within the communities we serve.”
Roman Ziemian Mobility: Driving Progress Across Fields The Roman Ziemian Mobility initiative encapsulates Roman Ziemian’s broader mission: to blend motorsport innovation with cultural and societal progress. By fostering meaningful opportunities in education, the arts, and technology, Roman Ziemian is creating a legacy that empowers future generations while elevating global standards for leadership and impact.
Hashtag: #RomanZiemianMobility
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Students celebrate scientific careers at the National University of Laos. 06 March 2025. (Photo credit: CIRAD)
Over 6,000 Lao nationals graduated from overseas institutions between 2021 and 2024, according to the Ministry of Education and Sports (MoES) during its recent annual general meeting.
Among them, 2,271 specialized in public health, 1,614 in business and law, and 479 in social sciences and media.
While these graduates have contributed to the country’s development, the government is now shifting its focus toward science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education. This strategic emphasis aims to equip future generations with the technical skills necessary for innovation and long-term economic growth.
Each year, between 3,000 and 4,000 Lao students pursue studies abroad in countries such as Vietnam, China, Thailand, Japan, South Korea, Australia, Russia, Hungary, the United Kingdom, and France. These opportunities are made possible through a combination of government scholarships, family support, and assistance from both the public and private sectors.
To better coordinate and capitalize on the potential of this growing educational diaspora, the ministry is currently developing a comprehensive database. The goal is to align international education efforts more effectively with the nation’s development priorities.
Domestic Education Faces Mounting Strains
However, this vision faces domestic challenges. The National University of Laos (NUoL) has seen enrollment plummet from 15,000 in 2016-2017 to just 5,457 in 2024, over limited job prospects and low graduate incomes.
Rising dropout rates plague secondary and high schools across provinces like Attapeu, Sekong, and Savannakhet, driven by economic hardship, teacher shortages, and inadequate infrastructure.
The teacher shortage crisis is particularly acute, with Savannakhet facing 500 unfilled positions and Bolikhamxay needing over 400 additional educators.
Bokeo province alone reported over 5,000 dropouts in 2023-2024 due to long travel distances, insufficient dormitories, and cultural attitudes that undervalue continued education.
In response, the government announced in June that 2,000 soldiers will serve as volunteer substitute teachers in rural areas, receiving specialized training and incentives including rank promotions.
As hundreds of voices erupted around the boxing ring, anticipation surged through the arena. It was the moment Soukan “Nong Oh” Taypanyavong had been training for, a battle that would decide whether years of sacrifice and sweat had truly paid off.
Circular textiles at industrial scale: Looper Textile Co. collects, sorts and processes up to 150 million garments annually for reuse and recycling.
Digital coordination by Rhenus 4PL: A customized 4PL Control Tower ensures full visibility and efficiency across the logistics chain.
Strong partnership for sustainability: The joint venture by REMONDIS and H&M Group relies on innovative logistics within the Rethmann Group.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 July 2025 – REMONDIS and H&M Group formed a joint venture, Looper Textile Co, an independent company that collects, sorts and enables reuse and recycling of textiles. Rhenus 4PL Solutions GmbH, a Rhenus Group company, is supporting the venture as REMONDIS’ contractual partner by providing advanced logistics solutions – including the centralized coordination of transport flows, end-to-end supply chain visibility, and the implementation of a digital 4PL Control Tower tailored to the specific requirements of circular textile logistics.
Smart Solutions for Circular Textile Flows
Looper Textile Co. is an independent joint venture owned by H&M Group and REMONDIS. The company has set itself the goal of collecting and sorting used clothing and textiles for reuse and recycling in order to make the best possible use of these valuable resources. “The need for collection and sorting solutions has never been greater, and Looper is uniquely positioned to drive meaningful change,”says Erik Lagerblad, CEO of Looper Textile Co.
“Used textiles are one of the largest material flows in the world. We rely on digital solutions and our expertise in the circular economy to efficiently coordinate the movement of collected volumes of 150 million pieces per year. Together, we want to take the sustainable use of textiles into the future,” commented Simon Bodmer, Head of Logistics Department at REMONDIS Recycling GmbH & Co. KG.
Rhenus 4PL Control Tower for transparency in Looper’s supply chain
As part of the project, Rhenus 4PL Solutions GmbH is deploying its 4PL Control Tower – a central digital platform that enables real-time coordination and monitoring of all logistics activities across the supply chain. As a Fourth Party Logistics (4PL) provider, Rhenus assumes overarching responsibility for managing logistics partners and processes. The system has been specifically tailored to support the requirements of the circular economy, ensuring full transparency, optimized material flows, and efficient, data-driven supply chain operations. In a circular project like Looper Textile Co., the Control Tower plays a key role in enabling textile reuse and recycling by seamlessly coordinating all stakeholders and creating end-to-end visibility.
“Our 4PL Control Tower provides a central platform for the coordinated and integrated management of all logistics activities and increases visibility along the entire value chain. This is crucial to achieving Looper Textile Co.’s goals,” explains Chris Gerfertz, Managing Global Director at Rhenus 4PL Solutions. “We’re proud to contribute to the success of Looper Textile Co. by providing digital supply chain visibility and management through our 4PL Control Tower. As part of the Rethmann Group, it’s great to see how REMONDIS and Rhenus are combining their strengths in recycling and logistics to drive practical, scalable solutions for circular textile flows.”
Enabling circular flows: Over 70 million garments sorted in 2024
Looper Textile Co. enables circular textiles through reuse and preparing for recycling. Operating out of two sorting facilities in Germany and one in Poland, while working with a global network of partners, Looper sorts into over 200 categories based on material and garment type. In 2023, the first year of operations, Looper helped extend the life of over 40 million garments, and over 72 million garments in 2024, 65% reuse, 25% recycling, and <10% responsibly disposed due to contamination. A commitment to innovation within Looper includes a pilot line for automated sorting using near-infrared and optical sensor technology, meeting the precise material requirements of emerging textile-to-textile recycling solutions. Hashtag: #Rhenus
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Rhenus
The Rhenus Group is one of the leading logistics specialists with global business operations and annual turnover amounting to EUR 8.2 billion. 41,000 employees work at 1,330 business sites in more than 70 countries and develop innovative solutions along the complete supply chain. Whether providing transport, warehousing, customs clearance or value-added services, the family-owned business pools its operations in various business units where the needs of customers are the major focus at all times.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 July 2025 –AIA Hong Kong announces the launch of the GlobalFlexi Savings Insurance Plan (the Plan). Designed to meet the needs of customers seeking financial flexibility and long-term wealth accumulation, the Plan offers a projected total internal rate of return (IRR) of up to 6.5%# by the end of the 30th policy year. It introduces rare-in-market* features, including Flexi Withdrawal Option and Value Safeguard Option, which enable flexible cash withdrawals to enhance liquidity while accumulating wealth. Additionally, the Plan includes the market-first^ Health Impairment Option, providing added security for the loved ones during times of uncertainty.
Alice Liang, Chief Proposition & Healthcare Officer of AIA Hong Kong & Macau
Ms Alice Liang, Chief Proposition & Healthcare Officer of AIA Hong Kong & Macau, said, “At every stage of life, financial resilience is key to empowering individuals to pursue their aspirations and confidently navigate unforeseen challenges. For example, many parents aspire to support their children in studying abroad at prestigious universities – a goal that often involves significant financial commitments and uncertainties, such as exchange rate fluctuations. Prudent planning and choosing a flexible wealth solution are therefore essential. AIA understands these evolving needs, which is why we have introduced the new GlobalFlexi Savings Insurance Plan. Thoughtfully designed, it empowers customers with financial clarity and provides peace of mind for their loved ones.”
She added: “Rooted in Asia for over a century, AIA remains committed to its customer-centric approach, offering innovative and reliable propositions that support individuals through every life stage and aspiration. We are dedicated to helping our customers live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives, enabling them and their loved ones to accomplish their dreams.”
Key features of the GlobalFlexi Savings Insurance Plan:
Wealth Accumulation & Liquidity
Projected break-even period as short as seven years%, with a competitive projected IRR of up to 6.5% by the end of the 30th policy year#.
Rare-in-market Flexi Withdrawal Option* enables customers to withdraw policy values regularly as needed and designate a loved one as the recipient.
Rare-in-market Value Safeguard Option* allows customers to withdraw and transfer cash value while earning non-guaranteed interest, providing liquidity for near-term life goals.
Market-first Currency Exchange Option^ enables policyholders to switch among nine different currencies&, facilitating diversified asset allocation.
Addressing Health & Future Challenges
Market-first Health Impairment Option^ provides financial protection and policy ownership transfer arrangements if the policyholder loses capacity due to a mental issue or a specified illness including Apallic Syndrome and Coma, ensuring financial stability for the family.
To further support customers in preparing their children for a successful future, AIA has partnered with a professional education consulting institution from 1 July to 31 December 2025 to provide GlobalFlexi Savings Insurance Plan customers with exclusive privileges. These include overseas education strategy seminars, consultancy on further studies, personalised education roadmap, tutoring and interview coaching. This partnership equips parents and students with the tools to navigate global education trends confidently and plan ahead.
As part of its latest campaign for the GlobalFlexi Savings Insurance Plan, AIA has enlisted Michelle Wai, one of its Rethink Healthy Ambassadors and a seven-time award-winning actress, to embody the product spirit. In the advertising video, Michelle reflects on her acting career, highlighting perseverance and resilient — values that align with AIA’s enduring commitment to its customers. The campaign debuted on 8 July 2025 across major promotional platforms in Hong Kong, including the latest prime locations such as MTR Kai Tak Station and Sung Wong Toi Station.
AIA Rethink Healthy Ambassador and 7-time award-winning actress Michelle Wai stars in the new GlobalFlexi Savings Insurance Plan campaign [Watch the campaign video by clicking here]
AIA Group is the largest independent publicly listed pan-Asian life insurance group, with over 600 investment employees1 across the Asia Pacific. AIA Hong Kong has ranked No. 1 in the number of new business policies in Hong Kong for 11 consecutive years2 and has been named Hong Kong’s Most Popular Insurance Brand for nine straight years3, a testament to the trust and support of its customers.
All information above is for reference only and does not constitute any offer and/or insurance product recommendation. The product information in this material does not contain the full terms of the product, for the details of the product features, terms and conditions, exclusions and key product risks, please refer to the product brochure and policy contract of relevant products or visit the AIA Hong Kong’s website.
Remarks * Multiple rare-in-market features
Flexi Withdrawal Option: Compared with the savings insurance products provided by Hong Kong major insurance companies as of 23 June 2025.
Velue Safeguard Option: Compared with the savings insurance products provided by Hong Kong major insurance companies as of 23 June 2025.
^ Multiple market-first features
Currency Exchange Option: Pioneered by AIA in the Global Power Multi-Currency Plan on 1 June 2021.
Health Impairment Option: This option allows the policy owner to designate up to 2 different designated recipients and elect for both benefit payment and transfer of ownership at the same time. This feature is first-in-market when compared with the savings insurance products provided by Hong Kong major insurance companies, pioneered by AIA with the Wealth Generation life insurance plan on 23 June 2025.
# Illustrative case example: assuming a policyholder purchases the GlobalFlexi Savings Insurance Plan with a 5-year premium payment, annual premium of US$100,000, total premiums of US$500,000. This is a hypothetical example for illustrative purposes only. Actual bonuses and dividends are not guaranteed and determined solely at AIA’s discretion. The total IRR does not represent future performance and is non-guaranteed. In the worst-case scenario, the actual total IRR by the end of the 30th policy year may be equal to the guaranteed IRR of 3.48%. % “Projected total breakeven period” is the policy year at the end of which the projected total surrender value is greater than or equal to the single premium paid for the first time. Illustrative case example: assuming a policyholder purchases the GlobalFlexi Savings Insurance Plan with a 5-year premium payment, annual premium of US$100,000, total premiums of US$500,000. In the worst-case scenario, the projected break-even period is by the end of the 18th policy year. Expected breakeven periods and total IRR vary by premium payment method. Single premium payments may achieve an expected breakeven period as short as 5 years. Expected breakeven periods are not guaranteed. Single premiums are invested once across diversified assets per strategy, while 5-year premium plans invest in five tranches any may benefit from dollar-cost averaging. In comparison, single premium payment policies may experience greater investment volatility with wider fluctuations in projected bonuses and dividends. In the worst-case scenario, the actual total IRR may be equal to the guaranteed rate. & Starting from the end of the 2nd policy year and within 30 days after the end of a policy year, you may apply once per policy year to switch your policy currency to one of the following 9 different currencies, including Renminbi (RMB), British pound sterling (GBP), US dollar (US$), Australian dollar (AUD), Canadian dollar (CAD), HK dollar (HK$), Macau pataca (MOP; only for policies issued in Macau), Euro (EUR) and Singapore dollar (SGD), by exchanging your GlobalFlexi Savings Insurance Plan policy for the latest plan under the GlobalFlexi Series which we offer in the new policy currency at the time of currency exchange. The approval of Currency Exchange Option’s application and the availability of currency for selection at the time of exercising the Currency Exchange Option will be subject to the prevailing laws and regulations, and our prevailing rules and conditions. 1. As of 31 December 2024 2. Based on statistics from Insurance Authority released since 2014 – Provisional statistics of the Insurance Authority on Hong Kong long-term insurance business for full year 2014-2024. 3. According to YouGov, an international research and data analytics company, Hong Kong BrandIndex 2016-2024. AIA has been the Top Insurance Brand in Brand Consideration and Most Likely to Purchase in Hong Kong for nine consecutive years since 2016.
Hashtag: #AIA #友邦
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About AIA Hong Kong & Macau
AIA Group Limited established its operations in Hong Kong in 1931. To date, AIA Hong Kong and AIA Macau have over 18,000 financial planners1, as well as an extensive network of independent financial advisors,brokerage and bancassurance partners. We serve over 3.6 million customers2, offering them a wide selection of professional services and products ranging from individual life, group life, accident, medical and health, pension, personal lines insurance to investment-linked assurance schemes with numerous investment options. We are also dedicated to providing superb product solutions to meet the financial needs of high-net-worth customers.
1 As of 31 March 2025 2 Including AIA Hong Kong and AIA Macau’s individual life, group insurance and pension customers (as of 31 March 2025)
www.isca.org.sg. 
