Home Blog Page 3657

Chubb Life Hong Kong Launches Serene Care Critical Illness Protector – The Market’s Only Pure Critical Illness Basic Plan with Limited Premium Payment Terms

By
Advertorial Desk
-

Flexible Premium Payment Solutions for Critical Illness Protection Across Life Stages


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 March 2025 – Chubb Life Hong Kong has launched “Serene Care Critical Illness Protector” (“Serene Care”), becoming Hong Kong’s first1 pure critical illness basic plan offering customers a choice of limited premium payment terms. The plan not only provides comprehensive coverage for 144 illnesses to meet customers’ wide-ranging protection needs, but also offers four premium payment options.

CHUBB SereneCare CoverImage Updated

Customers purchasing the critical illness protection plan for the first time can choose from a range of premium payment terms to suit their financial circumstances, allowing for the early lock in of premiums and avoiding the burden of significant premium increases in later years. For customers seeking to top up their critical illness coverage, protection can be obtained at affordable premiums based on their financial circumstances, to supplement existing coverage shortcomings.

Key features and benefits of Serene Care Critical Illness Protector:

  • Offers 4 options of limited premium payment term – 8, 12, 18 and 22 years, as well as a yearly renewable term option up to age 100 of the Insured, with policies offering a Conversion Option2 that adapts flexibly to your financial needs.

  • Hong Kong’s First Pure Critical Illness Insurance with Limited Payment Terms for Lifetime Peace of Mind: The market’s only1 pure protection critical illness basic plan offering limited premium payment terms, allowing customers to prepare for future protection while they have stable income.

  • Comprehensive protection up to age 100: Provides coverage for 144 illnesses at different stages, including major illnesses, minor illnesses (such as Carcinoma-In-Situ), and serious conditions requiring Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stays3. A Protection Revival Benefit4 ensures that protection can be restored to 100% after Minor Illness claims, providing peace of mind against future uncertainties.

Wenyu Ji, Chief Customer Proposition Officer, Chubb Life Hong Kong, said: “Through Serene Care Critical Illness Protector, we enable customers to prepare for future protection needs while they have a stable income, without worrying about long-term premium burdens. Serene Care not only expands our product portfolio but also provides customers with more flexible protection options.”

From now until March 31, 2025, customers successfully enrolling in the Serene Care Critical Illness Protector, can enjoy up to a total of 50% premium discounts over the first 3 policy years. If the total annualized premium of Serene Care Critical Illness Protector reaches USD 1,500 or above, you will also receive a complimentary cancer screening. Terms and conditions apply. For details, please refer to: https://www.chubb.com/content/dam/chubb-sites/chubb/hk-en/pdf/cie_offer_agy_en.pdf

Remarks:

  1. Based on a comparison with other critical illness protection plans for new Composite and Long-Term Businesses as identified in the Register of Authorized Insurers by Insurance Authority as of 1 January 2025.
  2. The Conversion Option is only applicable to Policies with YRT option and is subject to specific conditions in the product brochure and its policy documents. Please note that the Insured of the Policy and the New Policy should be the same and the existing policy will be terminated after conversion. The conversion is irrevocable upon taking effect. For the avoidance of doubt, the Waiting Period and the relevant periods in relation to incontestability and suicide exclusion shall be recounted from the date of last reinstatement of the New Policy. Please refer to the product brochure and its policy documents for details.
  3. The stays in ICU must be confirmed as “Qualified ICU Stay”, which means a stay in an ICU where all of the specific criteria must be met. Please refer to the product brochure and its policy documents for the specific criteria and other details.
  4. Protection Revival Benefit, Major Illness Benefit, Minor Illness Benefit and Death Benefit are subject to relevant terms and conditions, please refer to the product brochure and its policy documents for details.

This article is intended for general reference only and should not be regarded as professional advice, recommendation and does not form part of the policy. This article should be read along with other materials which cover more product information. Such materials include, but not limited to, product brochures setting out key product risks, policy provisions that contain the detailed terms and conditions, benefit illustrations (if any), policy documents and other relevant promotional or marketing materials, which are all available upon request. You might also consider seeking independent professional advice if needed. This article is intended to be displayed in Hong Kong only and does not construe as an offer to sell or solicitation to buy or provision of any insurance products outside Hong Kong. The above plan is a standalone policy and may be purchased independently without bundling with other insurance products.

Hashtag: #Chubb

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

About Chubb

Chubb is a world leader in insurance. With operations in 54 countries and territories, Chubb provides commercial and personal property and casualty insurance, personal accident and supplemental health insurance, reinsurance and life insurance to a diverse group of clients. As an underwriting company, we assess, assume and manage risk with insight and discipline. We service and pay our claims fairly and promptly. The company is also defined by its extensive product and service offerings, broad distribution capabilities, exceptional financial strength and local operations globally. Parent company Chubb Limited is listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: CB) and is a component of the S&P 500 index. Chubb maintains executive offices in Zurich, New York, London, Paris and other locations, and employs approximately 43,000 people worldwide. Additional information can be found at: .

1pic

By
admin
-

Salavanh Recognizes That Kadaothuek as Cultural Heritage Site

By
Phontham Visapra
-
Salavanh Recognizes That Kadaothuek as Cultural Heritage Site
That Kadaothuek (photo credit: Pathet Lao Daily)

On 17 March, Salavanh Province officially recognized That Kadaothuek as a local national cultural heritage site.

Continue

National Assembly Discusses Maternity Leave Adjustment

By
Souliyasone Ngotsyoudom
-
National Assembly Discusses Maternity Leave Adjustment
National Assembly Discusses Maternity Leave Adjustment

During the 2nd session of the National Assembly on 19 March, members from each constituency commented on a proposed change to maternity leave.

The draft law suggests reducing the current five-month maternity leave to three and a half months to align with international standards.

The change aims to better suit the health needs of both mothers and childrenHowever, Somphien Vongxay, an election candidate from Vientiane Capital, questioned the reason for the reduction.

She argued that while the adjustment meets international standards, it does not fully account for local conditions.

“We must consider the real situation here, especially the health challenges many women face,” she said. “Women’s health in Laos is still not on par with international levels.”
Somphien also raised concerns about whether three and a half months is enough time for mothers to fully recover before returning to work. She urged further consideration of the duration needed for a full recovery.

Also Suayphet give a comment on proposed changes to leave policies. Maternity leave in Clause two should increase from three and a half to four months. In Clause three, one month of leave for pregnancies of two to three months is agreed upon, but for those less than two months, fifteen days should be granted if a miscarriage occurs.

The revised leave structure includes one month for pregnancies of two to three months, two months for three to six months, and three and a half months for over six months. Cesarean leave in Clause four should increase to four and a half months. For Clause eight, marriage leave of up to five days should exclude public holidays, with the same clarification “Excluding public holidays” applied to Clauses nine and ten.

Additionally, Suayphet Thongsombath a member of the 8th constituency of Huaphan Province suggested that maternity leave should be extended to four months instead of three and a half, especially for women with certain health conditions.

He also proposed more flexibility in cases of miscarriage, suggesting that women who experience a miscarriage in the early stages should receive at least 15 days of leave.
For pregnancies between two to three months, one month of leave would be granted, and for those beyond six months, the leave would remain at three and a half months.
Suayphet also recommended extending Cesarean leave to four and a half months.

“Swimming Jewels” Nishikigoi – Niigata-bred Koi Wins Top Prize at Global Beauty Competition

By
Advertorial Desk
-

Bekko Variety Also Takes Excellence Award, Headed for Popularity Among India’s Wealthy


TOKYO, JAPAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 March 2025 – The 55th All Japan Nishikigoi Show was held in Tokyo from January 25 to 26, 2025, where a Niigata-bred koi fish won the overall top prize. A koi dealer who exports to India also took the Excellence Award in the Bekko variety category.

Left: Overall Champion "Showa-sanshoku," Right: "Bekko" Excellence Award
Left: Overall Champion “Showa-sanshoku,” Right: “Bekko” Excellence Award

Nishikigoi are vibrant ornamental fish born from Japanese tradition and are often called “swimming jewels” for their beauty. Since first appearing from a natural mutation over 200 years ago, selective breeding has produced over 150 varieties. Koi from Niigata Prefecture, the birthplace of Nishikigoi, are especially valued for their vivid colors and striking patterns.

Known internationally as “Koi” or “Nishikigoi,” these fish have gained global popularity in recent years, particularly in Europe, the US, and Asia. Demand is also growing in India, especially among wealthy enthusiasts.

The All Japan Nishikigoi Show is one of the world’s most prestigious koi competitions, where breeders and collectors from across the globe compete in beauty and quality. This year, a Niigata-bred koi was awarded the top prize out of 1,843 entries—an accomplishment worthy of being called the most beautiful koi in the world.

A dealer who sells Japanese koi primarily in India also received the Excellence Award for the Bekko variety. Award-winning koi often increase their value significantly, with individual fish sometimes fetching several hundred thousand rupees.

■ Bekko Excellence Award – Comment from Mr. Amila I Bandara (Sri Lanka)
Koi bred in Niigata are truly outstanding in their vivid coloration and pattern. It is essentially the holy land of Nishikigoi here. I’m honored that my koi received the Excellence Award in this prestigious competition. In India, where I sell koi, many wealthy individuals keep them in large ponds at their homes. While varieties like Kohaku, Taisho-sanshoku, and Showa-sanshoku are staples, unique patterns like Asagi and Bekko have also been gaining popularity among enthusiasts. I plan to continue expanding sales of high-quality Niigata-bred koi and further promote their beauty throughout India.

Photo, right: Mr. Amila I Bandara
Photo, right: Mr. Amila I Bandara

Hashtag: #Niigataprefecture

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

Laos Included in United States Travel Ban Draft List

By
Beatrice Siviero
-
Laos included in US travel ban draft list.

The White House has included Laos in a draft list of countries that could face travel restrictions under a new United States (US) immigration policy proposed by the Trump administration. 

The draft categorizes Laos in the “orange” tier, meaning its citizens could see sharp restrictions on visas and be required to undergo mandatory in-person interviews for approval.

The proposal, developed by the US State Department in response to a 20-January executive order by President Trump, is part of a broader effort to identify countries with alleged deficiencies in vetting and screening procedures. 

The draft list, which remains subject to change, also includes Myanmar, Pakistan, Russia, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Turkmenistan, Belarus, Eritrea, and Haiti in the “orange” category. 

Meanwhile, 11 countries, including Afghanistan, Iran, and North Korea, fall under the “red” tier, facing a complete ban on travel to the United States.

US Draft Travel Ban List.

Implications for Lao Travelers

If implemented, the restrictions could significantly impact Lao citizens seeking to travel to the US for work, education, or family visits. 

The extent of the limitations is not yet clear, but it is likely that non-business travelers will face the greatest hurdles in obtaining visas. Previous US travel bans under the Trump administration disproportionately affected citizens from countries perceived as having weak government structures or security concerns.

Kane Vongsavanh, Founding Partner of Vong Law Group, emphasized the effect this could have on the Lao American community. 

“The Lao American community faces challenges because many have family in Laos who want to visit them in the US or permanently relocate with them to the US,” he said. “The relationship between the Lao diaspora in America has grown significantly in recent years, and there are numerous business and investment opportunities between the two countries.”

It is uncertain whether Laos holding valid visas or green cards would be exempt from the restrictions, as details of the policy remain under review. In prior travel bans, some visa holders were subjected to additional scrutiny or outright revocation of their entry permissions. 

US citizens are exempt from the travel ban. It’s nearly impossible to restrict travel for US passport holders, as the government recognizes them as citizens and ensures their entry, Vongsavanh explained. However, green card holders and anyone traveling on temporary work visas, tourist visas, or student visas may be impacted, according to him.

The draft list is still being reviewed by officials across multiple US agencies, and the final version of the travel restrictions could be modified before implementation.

Laos Has 60 Days to Address Concerns

Laos has a 60-day period to address any identified concerns in an effort to avoid further restrictions or escalation to the “red” tier. The Lao government has not yet issued an official response regarding its inclusion in the draft list.

Vongsavanh noted that one reason Laos may have been included is its stance on deportees. 

“One of the primary reasons Laos could be on the list is because they have been classified as a recalcitrant country, meaning they haven’t been taking back deportees. There are 4,800 Lao Americans on the deportation list who have been ordered removed by the US, but Laos has not accepted a great majority of them back. Even if Laos has taken back a few individuals, it may still not be enough in the eyes of the US government,” he said.

The Trump administration’s renewed focus on immigration control has already led to the revocation of visas and deportation in certain cases. 

A recent example includes the repatriation to Laos of Ma Yang, a 37-year-old Hmong American mother of five from Milwaukee. Born in Thailand, the woman was a legal US resident until a marijuana conviction led to her deportation. She has never been to Laos and doesn’t speak the language, according to the Journal Sentinel.

Uncertainty for Lao Citizens Traveling to the US

As the situation develops, Lao citizens planning to travel to the US may face uncertainty regarding visa approvals and potential travel disruptions. 

“If immigrant visas can’t be processed at the US embassy in Vientiane, it means that Lao nationals won’t be able to process their green card cases at the embassy in Vientiane (if they were already in the U.S., they could still process their green cards inside the US). Additionally, without temporary nonimmigrant visas, Lao nationals can’t visit as tourists, students, performers, temporary workers, nor can they travel for business meetings,” Vongsavanh said, naming, for instance, any Lao national looking to invest in real estate in the US would no longer be able to visit to view properties.

The US Embassy in Vientiane has not immediately responded to a request for comment.

Meanwhile, some Lao green holders already residing in the US could be reluctant to travel, according to Vongsavanh, noting that many Lao Americans have not obtained US citizenship. 

This is often due to factors such as the cost of the process, challenges with English proficiency, or reluctance to study for the civics exam.

“For whatever reason, they may be reluctant to risk traveling to Laos and not being allowed to return to the US,” he said.

While the final decision on the travel ban is expected in the coming weeks, advocacy groups are preparing to challenge it. 

“While this challenge may be present for three to four years, people aren’t giving up hope. There are many organizations and individuals fighting daily to prevent the travel ban, or if it does happen, to overturn it through legal action or by seeking waivers and exemptions,” Vongsavanh said.

Organizations such as the Asian American Law Caucus, Southeast Asian Resource Action Center, Asian Americans Advancing Justice, Southeast Asian Freedom Network, and Laotian American National Alliance have been instrumental in advocating on this issue, he noted. 

 

GEAR Industries’s Groundbreaking Success – A Historic Moment at IDEX 2025 – Hong Kong’s First Representative Shines On The Global Stage

By
Advertorial Desk
-

World’s Lightest Ballistic Plate HPS-4 – Award Winning Design at IDEX Innovation Trail, Revolutionary Material Leads New Era in Security Sector


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 March 2025 – GEAR Industries Limited — a Hong Kong-based company specializing in tailored defence solutions. With a strong focus on leveraging proprietary materials, GEAR is at the forefront of innovation, dedicated to raising security and safety standards across various industries. With a team of experts from diverse fields, GEAR fosters a culture of interdisciplinary collaboration, driving breakthrough advancements in defensive gear. Like the intricate interlocking gears of a mechanism, GEAR’s unwavering aim is to synchronize endeavors and accelerate progress towards a future that is both safer and more secure.

GEAR Industries Takes the Global Stage by Storm — CEO Jeffery Wu Leads Team in Continuous Innovation, Creating a Stunning International Debut at IDEX 2025
GEAR Industries Takes the Global Stage by Storm — CEO Jeffery Wu Leads Team in Continuous Innovation, Creating a Stunning International Debut at IDEX 2025

GEAR made its debut at IDEX 2025, held in Abu Dhabi from February 17 to 21, 2025, marking a historic milestone as the first Hong Kong enterprise ever invited to participate in this prestigious event. At this year’s international defence exhibition, the HPS-4 Ballistic Hard Plate has been selected as one of the Top 20 Innovations for the IDEX Innovation Trail 2025. IDEX is a leading global event in the defence sector, showcasing cutting-edge defence technologies and facilitating cooperation among international defence entities. It attracts top industry leaders, decision-makers, and military personnel from around the world. Making a splash in its first exhibition participation not only highlights GEAR’s outstanding technical capabilities but also marks a significant milestone for Hong Kong enterprises showcasing innovative potential on the international stage.

Founded in 2019, GEAR‘s professional team has been dedicated to developing world-class security equipment through breakthrough research in materials engineering. They have created advanced protective solutions that meet clients’ specific requirements. Its revolutionary composite materials have been highly acclaimed for their exceptional performance and application flexibility. With an expanding product line and commitment to superior quality, GEAR has become a trusted long-term partner for security agencies and law enforcement units.

GearXFiber & InvXble – Revolutionary Composite Material

GearXFiber is a groundbreaking composite material developed by GEAR‘s expert team, specifically designed for enhanced performance in protective gear and defensive equipment. Meeting the highest international standards — such as NIJ, GA, VPAM, and STANAG — GearXFiber has achieved patented status as a world-class technology, ideal for military applications focused on protection and safety. Notably, it is one of the lightest materials on the market, offering exceptional customization flexibility.

GearXFiber Revolutionary Protective Equipment Series - Redefining International Ballistic Standards
GearXFiber Revolutionary Protective Equipment Series – Redefining International Ballistic Standards

GEAR Revolutionizes Protective Equipment Industry with Disruptive Material Technology

GEAR is transforming the protective equipment industry through innovative material technology. The ultra-lightweight HPS-4 Ballistic Hard Plate, recognized as award-winning innovation at IDEX 2025, stands as the lightest and thinnest ballistic plate available today. This ultra-light, multi-hit protective insert ensures exceptional ballistic performance against a wide range of bullets, having passed field tests and certifications for VPAM PM 6, NIJ 0101.01 Level IIIA, and GA 141-2010 Level 4. Weighing only about 500g and a thickness of 6mm and being buoyant, the HPS-4 redefines armor technology, providing maximum security without excess weight while allowing unmatched comfort and agility. Meanwhile, the advanced HPS-6 Ballistic Hard Plate is 33% lighter than similar products on the market. When paired with a bulletproof vest, it delivers exceptional performance, effectively withstanding multiple rounds of sniper fire while surpassing competitors in weight, thickness, and overall protection level against repeated shots, setting a new standard for armor performance.

In specialized equipment for special tactical units, GEAR‘s Knight Shield — a handheld ballistic tactical shield, is designed specifically for special forces and made of GearXFiber. It features four built-in light-speed lamps at eye level, each providing up to 10,000 lumens of illumination and strobe functionality. The irregular strobe mode is monitored by a program to ensure persistent and unadaptable neural disruption to the target. The Supreme Strike Shield is engineered specifically for special operations. Its unique polygonal design accommodates various shooting positions, ensuring adaptability in dynamic environments. Achieving the highest ballistic protection level (NIJ IV / GA6), it stands as a testament to resilience and effectiveness in the field.

For casual undercover operations, GEAR has unveiled the Gear Lite Concealable Vest, it’s one of the lightest and most comfortable options on the market. Weighing 1.5 kilograms, its ultra-lightweight design integrates seamlessly with everyday casual attire. This vest features an ergonomic design that offers ultimate discreet protection, wearing it feels like being invisible.

Driving Change and Elevating International Security Standards

GEAR leverages local resources and talent to build a thriving ecosystem, positioning Hong Kong as a global hub for innovative defence technology. Its equipment meets the highest international standards, with products undergoing rigorous testing and securing national certification for top performance and reliability in combat settings. Looking ahead, GEAR plans to expand its cooperation with international law enforcement agencies. The company aims to support operations with tailored protective gear, delivering solutions that meet industry-leading standards and enable agencies to excel amid evolving challenges.Hashtag: #GEARIndustriesLimited #GEARIndustries #GEAR #IDEX2025 #GearXFiber #InvXble #Bodyarmor #Helmet #BallisticVest #BallisticShield #hkarmor #NIJ #Innovation #Defence #TacticalVest #Bulletproof


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

Konica Minolta Named ASEAN’s 2024 Market Leader in Colour Light and Mid Digital Production Printers for Third Year Running

By
Advertorial Desk
-

Konica Minolta Business Solutions Asia maintains its ASEAN market leadership with the highest market share in Colour Light and Mid Digital Production Printers for the third consecutive year, driven by the popularity of its flagship AccurioPress series.


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 March 2025 – Konica Minolta Business Solutions Asia has once again secured #1 market share for Colour Light and Mid Digital Production Printers across the ASEAN region, encompassing Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines, according to 2024 Q4 data from the latest International Data Corporation (IDC) Quarterly Hardcopy Peripherals Tracker. The IDC Quarterly Hardcopy Peripherals Tracker is a leading source of market data and analysis for the hardcopy peripherals industry.

Konica Minolta IDC Award ASEAN 2024
Konica Minolta IDC Award ASEAN 2024

Leading the Market: A Testament to 20 Years of Progress

For 20 years, Konica Minolta has been at the forefront of production printing, consistently driving the industry forward. Market leadership is a testament to the company’s deep commitment to understanding customer needs and delivering advanced digital print technologies that empower businesses.

“We are thrilled to announce that Konica Minolta has once again maintained its leadership in the light to mid-colour production print market across the ASEAN region for the third consecutive year. Earning this recognition from IDC reflects not just our commitment to excellence, but the strong partnerships we’ve built with our customers over two decades of progress in the digital printing market. This achievement reinforces the value of our customer-first approach, delivering high-quality products and responsive service that make a real difference. The trust our customers place in Konica Minolta drives us to keep advancing and developing solutions that not only meet their needs today but help them stay ahead in their digital transformation journey,” said Francis Chua, General Manager for Regional Sales & Marketing HQ at Konica Minolta Business Solutions Asia Pte Ltd.

Teh Hui Ying, Senior Product Manager at Konica Minolta Business Solutions Asia Pte Ltd, expressed her pride in the achievement: “It is an honour to see Konica Minolta lead the light to mid-colour production print market for the third consecutive year, reaffirming our dedication to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. Moreover, securing the top position in the entire colour production print category in ASEAN for 2024 is a remarkable milestone. We are excited about the journey ahead and remain committed to shaping the future of digital printing.”

This milestone reflects the strong collaboration between Konica Minolta and its customers and partners, whose support has been instrumental in driving the company’s innovation and growth. Konica Minolta expresses gratitude for their trust and remains dedicated to providing cutting-edge solutions that empower businesses and drive the future of print.

About Konica Minolta’s Colour Light and Mid Digital Production Printers

Konica Minolta’s AccurioPress series stands as a benchmark in digital production printing, engineered to meet the demanding needs of modern print environments. These printers feature industry-leading resolution and colour consistency, ensuring sharp, vibrant prints across a wide spectrum of substrates.

Additionally, the printers are complemented with advanced automation tools to streamline workflows, reduce operational costs, and minimise human error, contributing to higher reliability and a lower total cost of ownership.

The AccurioPress is available in four different models to suit different print needs:

Hashtag: #AccurioPress #KonicaMinolta #ProductionPrinters




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

About Konica Minolta Business Solutions Asia

Konica Minolta Business Solutions Asia, based in Singapore, is a wholly owned subsidiary of Konica Minolta Inc., Tokyo, Japan. With its expertise in imaging, data processing and data-based decision making, Konica Minolta creates relevant solutions for its customers and solves issues faced by society.

As a digital workplace solution provider, Konica Minolta helps its clients to identify and unlock the potential digitalisation to help companies reach the next level in the digital maturity of their organisation by rethinking the workplace.

Konica Minolta’s Igniting Print Possibilities offering helps printers, converters and brand owners maximise workflow automation to increase efficiency. The company delivers consultancy in all communication matters as well as top-of-the-line production, packaging, and label printers. Its finishing devices create print products that stand out and create added value. Konica Minolta has established itself as the production printing market leader for more than a decade (InfoSource).

With its commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), Konica Minolta has pledged to consistently pursue its sustainability and social responsibility goals. The company has been repeatedly recognised for its rich history of social contribution as well as for working towards achieving the SDGs throughout its business and is listed among “2023 Global 100 Most Sustainable Corporations in the World”, also having received the highest level in EcoVadis Sustainability Ratings.

Worldwide, the company has over 39,000 employees and operates in over 150 countries.

For more information, please visit .

1...3,6563,6573,658...6,467Page 3,657 of 6,467