The inaugural session of the Vientiane People’s Council’s second legislature elected Mr. Atsaphangthong Siphandone as the new Mayor of Vientiane Capital.
ECOVACS ROBOTICS Introduces the DEEBOT N8 PRO In Malaysia to Provide Hands-free and Effective Home Cleaning Experience
The powerful robot vacuum DEEBOT N8 PRO delivers a more powerful, worry-free and automated cleaning experience
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach – 1 April 2021 – ECOVACS ROBOTICS, the world’s leading home service robotics maker, today announces the launch of the DEEBOT N8 PRO in Malaysia, bringing a hands-free and effectively superior cleaning experience for customers. As the first key member of the family – DEEBOT N8 PRO powered by ECOVACS’ leading-edge TrueDetect 3D obstacle detection and avoidance technology, TrueMapping laser-based mapping and navigation technology, together with the compatibility of the Auto-Empty Station, the DEEBOT N8 PRO delivers a cleaning experience that reduces direct human interaction, providing a safe and hassle-free environment for families.
TrueDetect 3D Technology gives precise object detection for undisrupted cleaning
ECOVACS’ TrueDetect 3D technology uses 3D structured light technology and a 3D scanning algorithm, allowing the robot to scan its room surroundings with extreme precision and detect even the smallest obstacles to avoid collisions, getting stuck or getting tangled. The DEEBOT N8 PRO avoids and cleans around furniture and objects like shoes, wire cords and small toys. It can precisely scan for depth and distance to create a fast and accurate 3D image of space and objects, down to the millimeter level. Its object detection capability is 10X more accurate than traditional infrared technology. The ability to scan dark surfaces has been enhanced too, raising the robot’s ability to recognize dark-colored furniture and objects to avoid collision, and avoid missing dark-colored carpets too.
Mapping Homes with 2x Coverage and 4x Accuracy using TrueMapping Technology
With TrueMapping laser-based mapping and navigation technology, floor maps are created in seconds. The DEEBOT N8 PRO can intelligently navigate a user’s home, choosing which rooms and floors to clean, and customizing the optimum cleaning path for each respective floor map.
The DEEBOT N8 PRO dToF laser detection has doubled the distance recognition capabilities with a four-fold improvement in object recognition. Detection distance is enhanced to 10 meters, with the ability to detect objects as small as two millimeters. Integrated with industry-leading algorithms, N8 PRO can scan, map, and plan an efficient cleaning path faster and with precision, a benefit enjoyed for larger homes. The Virtual Boundary™ function can be controlled via the ECOVACS Home App, allowing users to restrict the robot from entering and cleaning specific areas, if privacy is needed.
More powerful cleaning performance with the upgraded 2600 Pa suction power
The Revolutionary Pressure-Retention System delivers energy efficiency and high vacuum pressure with a surprisingly low noise level. With Max+ mode, suction power of the DEEBOT N8 PRO is increased up to 2600 Pa, offering better cleaning results with the extra suction power.
OZMO™ vacuuming and mopping in one go
The DEEBOT N8 PRO is built with an electronically-controlled water pump and water tank, and allows for mopping and vacuuming in one go. The ECOVACS signature OZMO™️ Mopping System can efficiently clean the whole house without the need for repeated stops to top up the water tank. Sensors on the DEEBOT N8 PRO automatically switches between mopping mode or disabling cloth dampening, to guarantee a safer and deeper cleaning process. Without the cloth bracket, the water tank will not leak even if it is full. Users can manually mange the water yield through the ECOVACS HOME App accordingly.
The DEEBOT N8 PRO also comes with an upgraded disposable mopping pad that effectively remove stains and keep floors clean. It can remove over 99% of bacteria together with the use of OZMOTM Mopping technology.
Intelligent Control for Remote Cleaning Management
The DEEBOT N8 PRO take automated home cleaning to the next level with the ECOVACS HOME App. Either on a smartphone or with smart home devices such as the Amazon Echo/Dot and Google Home, users can select the optimum cleaning schedules for their homes. The upgraded advanced mapping function allows users to customize a cleaning plan for each room, switch to multiple cleaning modes, and save multi-floor maps. They can control the robot, schedule a cleaning plan and monitor the status remotely.
Enjoy Hands-free cleaning through compatibility with Auto-Empty Station
Most conventional robotic vacuum cleaners currently in the market require manual emptying of its dustbin, a tedious and sometimes unhygienic chore. The Auto-Empty Station accessory is equipped with a large-volume 2.5L disposable dust bag, made with an all-natural paper handle, that dramatically reduces the need to frequently empty the dustbin by hand for up to 30 days.
Pricing and Availability
DEEBOT N8 PRO’s suggested retail price is RM1649. It is available for pre-orders starting from April 4 to 16 at Shopee. It will be officially available at Shopee’s Super Brand Day from April 17 – 18, with a special price of RM1599 and comes with a RM50 e-voucher and a free giftpack.
It is also available at Lazada from April 19, consumers can enjoy additional RM50 e-voucher and free giftpack on top of the promotional price at RM1599 on April 23 to 24.
For more information, please visit ecovacs.com or connect with us on Facebook.
About ECOVACS ROBOTICS
Innovating Since Day One – Creating the Intelligent Home.
At ECOVACS ROBOTICS, we care about innovating solutions to enhance your lifestyle. Based on a deep understanding of use cases and consumer experiences, we design robots that help you to “live smart, enjoy life”.
With over 20 years of design and industry-leading research, we have led the market as homes become more intelligent and responsive. We are building a world where your home asks less of your attention, becomes more seamless and powerful, and frees you to spend more time doing what you love.
ECOVACS ROBOTICS Introduces 9-in-1 DEEBOT T9 In Malaysia – Our Best DEEBOT Just Got Better!
“The Best Just Got Better” with the first robotic vacuum cleaners in the market to combine upgraded vacuuming and mopping capabilities in one go
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach – 1 April 2021 – ECOVACS ROBOTICS, the world’s leading home service robotics maker, today launched the DEEBOT T9, the first models with intelligent 9-in-1 obstacle avoidance robotic vacuum cleaner that combines powerful vacuuming and mopping functions with a built-in mobile air freshener. The upgraded DEEBOT T9 with these cutting-edge features is more powerful and smarter than ever before.
DEEBOT T9 raises the bar for home cleaning with 9 stunning features, including the ECOVACS’ leading TrueDetect 3D 2.0, a real-time strategic obstacle detection and avoidance technology; TrueMapping 2.0 for precise navigation; ECOVACS HOME App upgraded with 3D Map, and OZMO™ Pro 2.0 Electric Oscillating Mopping System that ensures stubborn stains are removed more efficiently and quietly, compared to previous generation.
“We keep a close eye on market demand and there was a clear indication that consumers want smart products that make homecare even simpler, doing as much and as thorough as they can, in one go. ECOVACS is committed to giving consumers the latest in smart and unique cleaning experience,” said David Qian, Chief Executive Officer of ECOVACS ROBOTICS. “We’ve introduced our new-generation technologies, combined with multiple features while adding even more to our DEEBOT T9 to make sure every inch and floor surface is covered. Our Best DEEBOT Just Got Better.”
Upgraded ECOVACS HOME App with Improved Obstacle Avoidance and Navigation Technology
TrueDetect 3D 2.0 technology comes with an upgraded algorithm to quickly detect different types of obstacles and strategically avoid them. The DEEBOT T9 can detect object sizes right down to mere millimeters, which is ten times more accurate than products using traditional infra-red technology, with a detection range of 70-350 millimeters. Moreover, DEEBOT T9 can navigate smoothly in different indoor environments and lighting conditions without any interruptions, even in total darkness. TrueDetect 3D 2.0 technology allows the robotic vacuum cleaner to avoid collisions, entanglements, or disruptions, so users do not have to monitor the robot and clean it continuously.
Combining TrueDetect 3D 2.0 and TrueMapping 2.0 with 3D Maps brings a whole new level of automated cleaning efficiency and flexibility for users. They can quickly locate the robotic vacuum cleaner’s exact position via the 2D and 3D Maps. They can also manage their entire cleaning task on-the-fly, by toggling between the 2D and 3D Maps with the upgraded ECOVACS HOME App.
The new ECOVACS HOME App is designed for intuitive use, enhancing the user experience and reinforces the ECOVACS branding. The App is easy to navigate, offering users an optimal cleaning route. The interface integrates all the common features so that users can access critical functions easily. They can customize the amount of water used, suction power, cleaning times, and routes for different rooms.
A Luxurious Cleaning Experience with Built-in Air Freshener
The DEEBOT T9 is the first in the industry to clean floors and freshen the air at the same time. Connected to the DEEBOT’s mobile system, the air freshener gives users a vacuuming and fragrance experience that goes beyond traditional cleaning.
The air freshener’s unique design releases the fragrance onto the floor directly to remove musty and pet odors, while the fan at the bottom of the air freshener unit spreads the fragrance evenly.
The air freshener uses replaceable capsules, that can last up to 60 days, featuring three kinds of fragrances. Users can choose to switch the air freshener on or off using the ECOVACS HOME App, and extend its lifespan.
Powerful In-depth Cleaning Performance with OZMO™ Pro 2.0 and Auto-Empty Station Compatibility
The DEEBOT T9 comes with latest OZMO™ Pro 2.0 Electric Oscillating Mopping System with a newly designed motor and movement structure that minimizes noise.
The enhanced suction power of 3000 Pa also raises the bar in cleaning performance. The high-strength fiberglass structure keeps the suction power consistent when vacuuming both hard floors and carpets. The high-frequency vibration of up to 480 times per minute increases the mopping performance, making it comparable to an electric mop.
The DEEBOT T9 uses a disposable mopping pad that can be safely discarded immediately after cleaning. The specially-designed microfibers absorb water evenly, efficiently capture dust, and reduce residual water stains. The composite structure increases friction between the mopping pad and the floor and helps the OZMO™ Pro 2.0 Electric Oscillating Mopping System effectively remove stubborn stains on the floor.
A power-up kit is available for the DEEBOT T9 that further enhances the cleaning performance and user experience. The Auto-Empty Station, which clears the robot’s dustbin automatically after cleaning with minimal human intervention, is also compatible with DEEBOT T9.
Pricing and Availability
DEEBOT T9’s suggested retail price is RM2149. It is available for pre-orders starting from April 4 to 16 at Shopee. It will be officially available at Shopee’s Super Brand Day from April 17 – 18, with a special price of RM1949 and comes with a RM50 e-voucher and a free giftpack.
It is also available at Lazada from April 19, and the promotional price of RM1949 with RM50 e-voucher and free giftpack will be from April 23 to 24.
For more information, please visit ecovacs.com or connect with us on Facebook.
About ECOVACS ROBOTICS
Innovating Since Day One – Creating the Intelligent Home.
At ECOVACS ROBOTICS, we care about innovating solutions to enhance your lifestyle. Based on a deep understanding of use cases and consumer experiences, we design robots that help you “live smart, enjoy life.”
With over 20 years of design and industry-leading research, we have led the market as homes become more intelligent and responsive. We are building a world where your home asks less of your attention, becomes more seamless and powerful, and frees you to spend more time doing what you love.
China Mobile Hong Kong Triumphs As Hong Kong’s Fastest 5G Network
Fastest Network Becomes The Best Digital Companion for Corporate Clients and Individual Consumers
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 1 April 2021 – Since 2020, China Mobile Hong Kong (CMHK) has taken the lead in establishing the fastest and leading 5G mobile network in Hong Kong. On its first anniversary, CMHK was verified as the “Fastest 5G Network in Q4 2020” based on consumer initiated tests taken using Speedtest® by Ookla®, the internet test for measuring network speed*. According to the report Speedtest® presented in the CMHK’s press conference, showcasing CMHK’s 5G upload and download data speed recorded market-leading results from December 2020 to February 2021, three consecutive months**. In February this year, CMHK’s 5G network attained an download and upload speed at 210Mbps and 32Mbps, respectively – leveraging the abundant spectrum resources to provide a superior and unapparelled 5G network.
Mr. Sean Lee announces the new 5G service plan and the upcoming plans for CMHK
Ookla, the company behind Speedtest®, is the global leader in fixed broadband and mobile network testing applications, data and analysis. Over ten million tests are actively initiated by consumers each day across all Speedtest platforms, with nearly 35 billion completed to date. As a result, Ookla has the most comprehensive analytics on worldwide internet performance and accessibility. Ookla solutions have been adopted by a significant number of internet service providers and mobile carriers worldwide and have been translated into over 30 languages for use by thousands of businesses, governments, universities and trade organizations. Ookla’s headquarters are located in Seattle, WA with additional offices in Dublin, Ireland.
Mr. Sean Lee, Director and Chief Executive Officer of China Mobile Hong Kong explains, “We are excited and proud that CMHK’s 5G network has been recognized by Speedtest®, which reflects our resources and efforts invested in building a high-quality and reliable 5G network. Through our state-of-the-art 5G network and cutting-edge technology, CMHK will continue to provide our customers with more innovative 5G services, paving the way into a new era of connectivity and smart living.
Hong Kong’s First and Largest B2B 5G Infrastructure Project
As one of the local operators with the most extensive 5G spectrum in Hong Kong, CMHK strongly believes that the 5G network is the foundation for smart city developments and digital transformation for different industries. Last year in July, CMHK was successfully commissioned the Hong Kong International Airport’s corporate 5G infrastructure project, which is Hong Kong’s first and largest business-to-business (B2B) 5G construction service on 5G.
Sean continues, “We are incredibly excited to have obtained the 5G infrastructure project. This is not only a confirmation of our efforts, but also a big step towards Hong Kong’s transformation into a smart city. As Hong Kong International Airport plays a pivotal role in international business, logistics and tourism, CMHK’s 5G network will further assist its leading advantage in these sectors. The unprecedented smart application solutions will help to develop a new generation of 5G technology and ultimately elevate the prospects for future developments of Hong Kong International Airport.”
Smart City and Digital Enterprises Development
Back in 2019, CMHK was the first to complete the 5G standalone network test and was also the first to roll out the ‘Network Slicing’ services in November 2020, offering corporate clients diverse 5G applications and a flexible combination of network services. At the same time, CMHK has been proactively collaborating with strategic partners, including finance, real estate developers, and property management projects to be launched. CMHK will continue to use its leading technology and abundance of resources to provide a superb and peerless 5G network experience for its corporate clients and individual consumers.
Three Major Development Strategy Moving Forward
Mass Market
To popularize the use of the 5G network in Hong Kong, CMHK launched a new and attractive 5G plan to engage a wider range of consumers. One can enjoy up to 10GB of high-speed 5G mobile data each month for only HK$168. CMHK has also unveiled a series of customer upgrades and rewards, including the UTV hmvod movie set or JOOX music VIP service for half off its original price. Additionally, new customers who purchase a 5G mobile device can enjoy a discount of up to HK$2,300 and enjoy interest-free instalments, alongside privileges presented by China Mobile Hong Kong’s Privilege Club.
Smart Homes
CMHK also presents a new ‘CMHK HOME’ brand that provides exclusive CMHK home broadband service, a premium wireless 5G network, and other smart home products. The smart devices series includes an UTV Box with movies, music, and entertainment in one, UGAME with up to 100 video games, and the OneHome gadget – providing the consumer with a one-stop solution to transform the home experience.
Corporate Clients
With the fastest 5G network in the city, CMHK will collaborate with industry partners to develop 5G business applications in three major categories:
1) Smart Buildings: To integrate 5G technology into everyday lives through exclusive 5G mobile applications
2) Smart Hospitals and Telemedicine: To facilitate information transfer, optimize patient care services, and assist patients with limited mobility or who live remotely to receive appropriate treatment
3) Smart Transportation: To improve traffic safety and automated driving through 5G big data
*Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence© 5G median download speeds for Q4 2020 in Hong Kong. Ookla trademarks used under license and reprinted with permission.
**Based on analysis by Ookla® of Speedtest Intelligence© 5G median download and upload speeds from Dec 2020 to Feb 2021 in Hong Kong. Ookla trademarks used under license and reprinted with permission.
About China Mobile Hong Kong Company Limited
China Mobile Hong Kong Company Limited (“CMHK”) is the wholly-owned subsidiary of China Mobile Limited (HKEx: 941) (NYSE: CHL), which ranks 65th on the Fortune Global 500. CMHK was incepted in January 1997 and was the first mobile network operator to launch PCS services in Hong Kong.
The Company offers innovative and comprehensive communications services, including voice, data, IDD, and international roaming through 4G LTE, 3GHSPA, GPRS, EDGE, and other technologies. The Company is committed to the development of its 5G network, combined with new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, IoT, cloud computing and big data, integrating 5G applications in different industries, and promoting the construction and development of smart city groups in the Greater Bay Area.
Atradius: Israel-UAE economic cooperation expected to intensify, despite challenges
Atradius’ latest report analyses mutual trade opportunities following the normalisation of diplomatic and trade relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, assessing the prospects for long-term engagement.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 1 April 2021 – The normalisation of diplomatic and trade relations between Israel and the UAE will unlock mutual trade opportunities given the complementary nature of the two nations’ economies, according to Atradius‘ latest economic research report. Despite potential regional geopolitical tensions, cooperation between the two is likely to intensify in the long-term.
With recessions in 2020 behind them, the report notes that the economic growth outlook for both is relatively strong. Their economies are complementary in that they both have a GDP of around USD 400 billion and their relatively small populations enjoy high living standards. Both economies are well diversified, and the favourable business environment in each bodes well for developing an intimate trade relationship.
The report notes that in the first five months since their historic peace treaty, the two have conducted around USD 280 million in bilateral trade. Various sources estimate annual bilateral trade in the medium-term could range anywhere between USD 4.0 billion and 6.5 billion, equivalent to about 1.0%-1.5% of each country’s GDP.
Looking at each country’s relative comparative advantage, opportunities for the UAE include exports of perfumery, plastics, aluminium and cement & other construction materials. Israel has a strong comparative advantage in arms & ammunition, medical electro-diagnostic devices, chemical products and unfermented fruit and vegetable juices.
“The prospect of mutual benefit through a deepening trade relationship is evident,” noted Schuyler D’Souza, Managing Director Middle East, Atradius. “Due to pandemic-induced constraints on local and global demand, we expect to see a more immediate impact on some sectors like healthcare and agriculture, while other sectors, for example leisure and hospitality, will take some time to see growth boosted by the peace deal. But, overall, the normalisation presents enormous opportunities for the business communities in the UAE, and we are fully prepared to help exporters explore trade opportunities.”
Other key findings include:
* While the UAE sells mainly low/ medium-tech and resource-based manufactures it is gradually trading-up, buying more high-tech items from around the world. The UAE’s share of high-tech import products has increased from below 15% to almost 20% over the past 10 years, as it seeks to diversify its economy. As one of the world’s high-tech producers, Israel stands to benefit.
* Through either trade or investment, the UAE could benefit from Israeli expertise in healthcare and agri-technology. The UAE is making a great effort to attract foreign investors and is already one of the largest recipients of FDI in the Gulf region. The Dubai World Expo later this year, where Israel will have its own pavilion, is a great opportunity for Israeli companies to showcase their innovations.
* Owing to Israel’s gas production expansion, Israel’s real effective exchange rate has already appreciated by almost 8% since 2016. With the UAE dirham depreciating at the same time, Israeli goods became 20% more expensive in terms of UAE goods. The shekel will continue to strengthen gradually, which at some point could price Israeli companies out of the UAE’s market.
Geopolitical risks also persist, the report notes. “Despite the risk of a temporary setback, the cooperation between the UAE and Israel that is currently being developed appears to be deep and broad-based,” noted Niels De Hoog, Senior Economist, Atradius. “It won’t be easily undone. Other Arab countries are following suit in reconciling with Israel, making individual backtracking more difficult, and the shared interest of maintaining a strategic partnership with the US is another political safeguard.”
Get the Atradius Economic Research Report here: https://atradius.sg/reports-and-services/israel-uae-trade-relations.html?utm_source=MediaOutreach&utm_medium=pr&utm_campaign=er_israel_uae_normalisation
About Atradius
Atradius is a global provider of credit insurance, bond and surety, collections and information services, with a strategic presence in over 50 countries. The products offered by Atradius protect companies around the world against the default risks associated with selling goods and services on credit. Atradius is a member of Grupo Catalana Occidente (GCO.MC), one of the largest insurers in Spain and one of the largest credit insurers in the world. You can find more information online at www.atradius.com.hk
Connect with Atradius on Social Media
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Hong Kong Baptist University-led research reveals hyocholic acids are promising agents for diabetes prediction and treatment
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 1 April 2021 – A series of studies led by researchers from Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) have revealed that hyocholic acid and its derivatives (collectively known as HCAs), a component of bile acids that facilitate fat digestion, are a promising risk indicator of type 2 diabetes. The strong efficacy of HCAs in regulating blood glucose levels and protecting against diabetes has also been uncovered. The findings open a window for the development of HCA-based predictive markers as well as anti-diabetic drugs.
Professor Jia Wei, Chair Professor of the School of Chinese Medicine at HKBU, has revealed that hyocholic acid and its derivatives are a promising risk indicator of type 2 diabetes.
The research results have been published in the international scientific journals Cell Metabolism and Nature Communications.
High concentration of HCAs protects pigs from diabetes
Inspired by the traditional Chinese medical book Compendium of Materia Medica, which recorded the use of pig bile to treat excessive thirst, a condition known today as diabetes, Professor Jia Wei, Chair Professor of the School of Chinese Medicine at HKBU, led research teams to conduct a series of studies on the role of HCAs in glucose homeostasis and diabetes prevention.
Diabetes is characterised by high blood glucose levels. Through a series of tests conducted on 55 humans, 32 mice and 12 pigs, Professor Jia’s team confirmed that fasting blood glucose levels in pigs are significantly lower than that of humans and mice. As HCAs constitute nearly 80% of bile acids in pigs, while the proportions in humans and mice are only about 2% and 3% respectively, a negative correlation between HCAs and blood glucose levels was observed.
The result indicates the potential role of HCAs in the maintenance of stable glucose levels. This may explain why pigs, unlike humans, seldom suffer from diabetes despite their low physical activity levels and consumption of a calorie-rich diet.
HCAs correlate with diabetes and metabolic health
To analyse the correlation between the levels of HCAs and the occurrence of diabetes in humans, data was collected from two large-scale cohort studies, namely the Shanghai Obesity Study and the Shanghai Diabetes Study. The researchers examined the serum bile acid profiles of 1,107 participants of the Shanghai Obesity Study, which was published in 2013. The participants were divided into three groups: healthy lean, healthy obese and obese with type 2 diabetes. It was discovered that the levels of serum HCAs were significantly lower in the healthy obese and obese with type 2 diabetes groups.
In another study, the serum bile acids of 132 participants of the Shanghai Diabetes Study were investigated. They were all healthy (at baseline) when they were enrolled in the study between 1998 and 2001. Ten years later, 86 of them had become metabolically unhealthy, while 46 remained healthy. Analysis showed that, compared with those who remained healthy ten years later, those who had become metabolically unhealthy had significantly lower baseline levels of serum HCAs, illustrating that levels of HCAs are a strong predictor of metabolic syndromes such as diabetes.
HCAs regulate blood glucose levels in animal models
Through a series of laboratory experiments, the researchers looked further into the mechanisms that underpin the key role that HCAs play in regulating blood glucose levels. In an animal model experiment, the researchers suppressed the synthesis of HCAs in the livers of a group of pigs by around 30%, and they found that their blood glucose levels increased by 30% when compared with the control group. HCAs were then given to the pigs, after which their blood glucose levels eased off.
Another experiment conducted by the researchers focused on the effect of HCAs on glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1). GLP-1 is a hormone produced by L-cells, a type of enteroendocrine cell that enhances insulin secretion and decreases blood glucose. In a laboratory setting, different kinds of bile acids, including HCAs, were applied to L-cells, at varying levels of concentration. Results showed that at a high concentration of 50 micromolar, HCAs were the most effective at stimulating GLP-1 secretion when compared with other types of bile acids. The findings also revealed that HCAs regulate blood glucose levels by stimulating the secretion of GLP-1 and thus insulin production.
Potential for diabetes prediction and treatment
“The results of our studies provide evidence of how HCAs help to regulate blood glucose levels, and they have revealed the mechanism of how it is achieved at a cellular level. HCAs demonstrate promising potential, and they could be developed into an agent for the prediction and treatment of type 2 diabetes,” said Professor Jia.
“As gut microbiota can regulate the metabolism of HCAs, targeting the intestines instead of the pancreas could be a prospective novel strategy for treating diabetes. We will further investigate how to increase the secretion levels of HCAs in diabetic patients by regulating the intestinal bacteria,” he added.
Researchers from the Shanghai Jiao Tong University Affiliated Sixth People’s Hospital, Peking University, the Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital of Nanjing University Medical School, China Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, China Agricultural University, Sichuan University and the University of Hawaii were also involved in the studies.
NCS to offer new big data and mobility intelligence services through integration of DataSpark
Integration expands NCS’ NEXT service offerings in end-to-end advanced analytics and big data to support its Asia-Pacific growth strategy
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach – 1 April 2021 – NCS will integrate DataSpark, a telco-centric data science and engineering subsidiary of Singtel Group, under its growing NCS NEXT organisation. This integration expands NCS’ capabilities in providing end-to-end advanced analytics and big data solutions with mobility intelligence services. NCS and DataSpark clients can better harness big data for digital transformation, augment their existing data platforms with geo-spatial data, and transform the data into mobility intelligence to draw deeper customer insights and drive business outcomes.
Ng Kuo Pin, Chief Executive Officer, NCS said, “We want to be a trusted digital transformation partner for governments and enterprises in the Asia Pacific region and are committed to helping our clients succeed by harnessing new technologies in big data, advanced analytics and artificial intelligence. Adding DataSpark’s geo-spatial and mobility intelligence services to our already robust end-to-end data capabilities opens up new possibilities for our clients, by enabling them to draw an incredibly detailed understanding of how people and their customers move, identifying unmet needs and growth opportunities.”
A key capability of DataSpark is using mobility data intelligence to help organisations make better-informed business strategy and plans by understanding how people move, where they go, and what they do. This is done by processing large amounts of anonymised mobile, Global Positioning System (GPS), public transport, road network, immigration, and census data. In 2020, DataSpark successfully gathered anonymised telco-sourced data on changes in unique daily worker volumes within Singapore and Australia’s Central Business Districts (CBD), which provided insights and solutions into the future of workers in CBD offices.
Shaowei Ying, Chief Operating Officer, DataSpark, said, “DataSpark’s presence in high-growth markets and unique capabilities in mobility data intelligence are a natural complement to NCS’ growth strategy in Asia Pacific. By joining the NCS family, we can expand our digital footprint to reach new clients in a variety of sectors such as healthcare, out-of-home media, retail, tourism, transport, urban planning, and more. With the synergy of NCS’ resources and NCS NEXT teams, we are excited to explore the growth opportunities this integration will bring and will continue to innovate to help our clients make informed business decisions with mobility data and actionable insights.”
With a presence in Australia (known as DSpark), Indonesia, Philippines, and Singapore, DataSpark offers a range of solutions ranging from artificial intelligence and machine learning, to bespoke telecommunication data tools.
DataSpark will continue to run independently under NCS NEXT to further accelerate and expand its product and service offerings.
About NCS
NCS is a member of the Singtel Group and the leading information, communications and technology (ICT) service provider with presence in the Asia Pacific region. NCS delivers end-to-end ICT solutions to help governments and enterprises realise business value through digital transformation and the innovative use of technology. NCS invests in NEXT capabilities of digital, cloud, and platform while continuously strengthening its core offerings of Applications, Infrastructure, Engineering, and Cyber services. NCS also believes in building a strong partner eco-system with leading technology players and research institutions to support open innovation and co-creation.
For more information, please visit www.ncs.com.sg.
Tanoto Foundation Contributed IDR157 Billion in Programs and Aid in 2020 to Improve Indonesia’s Human Capital Development Index: Annual Report
JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach – 1 April 2021 – Tanoto Foundation, an independent family philanthropy organization founded by Sukanto Tanoto and Tinah Bingei Tanoto in 1981, contributed a total IDR157 Billion (US$11.1M) to support a diverse range of education and human capital development programs in 2020, an increase from 2019’s IDR155 billion (US$ 10.9M). This is detailed in the Tanoto Foundation Annual Report 2020, published today.
The increase reflected Tanoto Foundation’s concerns over the social impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on communities. The funds were allocated to finance a number of sustainable programs, in the following areas:
- Early childhood development and education, including prevention of stunting;
- Improving the quality of educators (teachers, teacher trainees, principals, school supervisors);
- Development of future leaders (scholarship scheme);
- COVID-19 aid.
Dr. J. Satrijo Tanudjojo, Global CEO, Tanoto Foundation, stated that the Foundation remains committed to achieving its programs’ impact goals, while helping the communities affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We were encouraged by the generosity of the Tanoto family, who guided us as we maintained continuity in our programs to improve lives and quality of education for our beneficiaries, with a number of adjustments made due to the pandemic,” said Satrijo.
Combatting the COVID-19 pandemic
Tanoto Foundation collaborated with government and private sector organizations to support areas that required more attention and intervention. In the early stages, the efforts were focused on supporting medical workers in the frontline, while in the later stages the focus shifted to supporting the increase of COVID-19 testing capacity – the Foundation’s collaboration with Temasek Foundation International and GSI lab being one example. The total tally of the donation in COVID-19 assistance amounted to 1.3 million masks, 1 million pairs of gloves, 100,000 protective gowns, 3,020 goggles, 20,200 PCR test kits and 1 set of testing machines.
Collaboration on stunting prevention
Tanoto Foundation continued to actively support the Indonesian Government’s stunting reduction goals and improve learning standards in early childhood development and education, with key highlights as follows:
- Strengthened partnerships with Early Childhood Education centres, trained 154 teachers, reaching 824 children;
- Collaborated with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation; committed a total of US$2 million to the World Bank’s Multi Donor Trust Fund in support of training 72,636 human development cadres recruited by the Indonesian government;
- Contributed a US$200,000 grant to UNICEF Indonesia to translate and adapt the measurement instruments for the Early Childhood Development Instrument (ECDI) and the Caregiver-Reported Early Development Index (CREDI) in Indonesia.
Basic Education: Supporting the shift in distance learning
The COVID-19 pandemic also disrupted basic education. The Government swiftly implemented distance learning to ensure the continuation of educational activities by leveraging technology and creative teaching methods. To support our beneficiaries in this process, Tanoto Foundation’s PINTAR Program surveyed over 450 partner primary and secondary schools across 21 districts.
The survey found only a third of schools in urban areas were distance-learning ready, while only one in 10 schools were distance-learning ready in rural and semi-urban areas. It also discovered the challenges that teachers and principals were facing in the shift to distance learning, represented in three major areas:
- Infrastructure: Students and teachers had limited access to internet and adequate devices.
- Teachers’ Competency: Teachers had difficulty using technology and digital media to assess the students’ understanding of study materials and track their progress.
- System and people readiness:
a. Students struggled to embrace a different learning method.
b. Parents were unprepared to take a more active role in the learning process.
c. The Government needed time to adapt to the changes in the education sector
Following the survey, the PINTAR Program facilitators developed plans that focused on equipping educators with the necessary competencies and facilities to effectively use technology for distance learning. Efforts included the launch of an e-teacher training platform aimed at familiarizing teachers with learning management systems and simple collaboration tools. The program also combined online individual learning and exchange of best practices through the formation of teacher working groups. To achieve scale and sustainability, we rerouted expenditure on brick-and-mortar infrastructure to classroom and out of classroom technologies.
Developing future leaders in the higher learning segment
Amidst the pandemic, the recruitment process of the TELADAN scholarship recipients (scholars) class of 2021 was for the first time held entirely online. The processes included online registration, three-step preliminary selection (included gamified and written tests) to final round of selection (online leaderless group discussion, gamification, and online interviews) to ensure the quality of shortlisted scholars. The Foundation selected 172 TELADAN Scholars from a total 10,895 applicants.
Over the period 2004-2020, Tanoto Foundation has awarded 7,825 scholarships to students from various universities across Indonesia.
About Tanoto Foundation
Tanoto Foundation is an independent philanthropic organization founded by Sukanto Tanoto and Tinah Bingei Tanoto based on the belief that every person should have the opportunity to realize his or her full potential. Tanoto Foundation programs stem from the belief that quality education accelerates equal opportunity. We harness the transformative strength of education to realize people’s full potential and improve lives. Tanoto Foundation focuses on making an impact in three areas: improving learning environments, future leaders development, as well as medical research and sciences.