Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra has ordered a swift crackdown on e-cigarette sales, giving authorities a firm 30-day deadline to implement decisive measures. The effort will focus on banning sales near educational institutions and targeting importers to curb distribution.
Fundiin Partners with CIMB Bank Vietnam, Empowering the Next Wave of Financial Inclusion
HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, Feb. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In early 2025, Fundiin – Vietnam’s leading Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) platform has officially joined forces with CIMB Bank Vietnam, one of ASEAN’s top banking institutions, to revolutionize access to credit for Vietnamese consumers.
Currently, only 4% of Vietnam’s population holds a credit card, and a significant portion of the country remains underserved by traditional banking systems. This partnership marks a pivotal moment in addressing these gaps. Through Fundiin’s innovative BNPL solution, combined with CIMB’s robust financial infrastructure, this collaboration is set to offer more consumers, particularly those left out of the traditional financial ecosystem, with accessible, flexible, and sustainable credit options.
The new offering, called “Trả góp Tối ưu”, harnesses cutting-edge data science to improve credit accessibility. By analyzing credit records and transaction data, Fundiin ensures accurate lender matching, optimizing both approval rates and loan interest to suit individual customer profiles.
For both Fundiin and CIMB Bank, this partnership represents more than just a business move – it’s a step toward transforming Vietnam’s financial ecosystem. The collaboration is poised to democratize credit and provide a seamless, more affordable way for consumers to access financial services that were once out of reach.
Mr. Nguyen Anh Cuong, Fundiin CEO, mentioned:
“Fundiin’s partnership with CIMB aligns with Fundiin’s growth strategy to offer high standard digital financial products to a broader consumer base. The combination of Fundiin’s technology platform & data science with CIMB’s strong financial foundation will further help drive financial inclusion in Vietnam.”
Ms. Le Hien Trang, from CIMB Vietnam, added:
“As a leading ASEAN bank with deep experience in digital finance, CIMB Vietnam is committed to offering adaptable and transparent credit solutions. Our collaboration with Fundiin allows us to extend financial opportunities to underserved communities, empowering consumers through technology-driven solutions that make credit more accessible. Together, we’re paving the way for a future where financial inclusion isn’t a privilege but a standard.”
Fundiin officially collaborates with CIMB Bank Vietnam to launch new offering, called “Trả góp Tối ưu”
Looking Ahead: The Future of Digital Financial Products
The partnership between Fundiin and CIMB is just the beginning. Both parties are committed to continuous innovation, developing tailored digital financial products that cater to specific customer segments – especially those with limited or no credit history. By helping these individuals gradually build their personal credit, Fundiin and CIMB aim to create a clear pathway for consumers to move toward more advanced financial services down the line.
As this collaboration unfolds, Fundiin and CIMB Bank Vietnam are setting the stage for a new era of financial empowerment, one where access to credit is redefined, and consumers are put at the heart of the financial ecosystem.
About Fundiin
Established in 2019, Fundiin is also the first corporation to develop completely automatic as well as online BNPL solutions in Vietnam. Fundiin offers a convenient payment option to consumers, relieving them of financial stress and connects over 800 retail partners to the best brands.
The biggest difference of Fundiin is no debt retrieval since setup, this helps with excellent customer experience and also demonstrates Fundiin’s commitment of delivering efficient finance products.
About CIMB Vietnam
CIMB Group is the fifth largest banking group in ASEAN with over 33,000 employees and 26 million customers across 10 global markets.
Established in 2016, CIMB Bank Vietnam is a part of CIMB Group, a leading global bank in ASEAN with extensive experience and expertise in the region. CIMB Bank Vietnam was the first within the Group’s franchise to adopt the digital bank model. It is today recognized as one of Vietnam’s most innovative and emerging digital banks. CIMB Bank Vietnam is headquartered in Hanoi, with its branch in HCMC, providing a wide range of banking products and services to individuals, businesses and corporations.
In 2024, CIMB was recognized with several prestigious awards, including Best Implementation of Partner Network Development Strategies (Banking) Vietnam 2024, Excellence in Innovation Digital Banking Vietnam 2024, and Best Companies to Work for in Asia 2024.
WUSD Now Accepted at Iconic Metro Department Store Through dtcpay Integration
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SINGAPORE, Feb. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Worldwide Stablecoin Payment Network (WSPN) is pleased to announce that its flagship stablecoin, WUSD, is now accepted at Metro Department Store through dtcpay’s innovative payment solution. This development marks a significant milestone in bringing stablecoin technology to mainstream retail, as shoppers at one of Singapore’s most iconic department stores can now use WUSD for their everyday purchases.
The integration follows dtcpay’s recently announced partnership with Metro Department Store, which enables customers to pay with popular stablecoins including USDT, USDC, and WUSD. This expansion in WUSD acceptance demonstrates the growing utility of Stablecoin 2.0 in real-world retail environments, positioning WUSD among the select digital assets available for Metro shoppers from day one.
“We’re thrilled to see WUSD becoming available to the public at Metro Department Store through our partnership with dtcpay,” said Raymond Yuan, Founder & CEO of WSPN. “This represents exactly the kind of practical, everyday utility that Stablecoin 2.0 was designed to deliver. As more consumers experience the convenience and stability of using WUSD for retail purchases, we expect to see accelerated adoption across the broader market.”
Metro customers can now enjoy the benefits of using WUSD for their shopping needs, including the stability and security that comes with a digital asset pegged 1:1 to the US dollar. The integration allows shoppers to pay directly with WUSD at checkout, creating a seamless experience that makes digital assets more accessible and practical for everyday use.
This development builds upon the strategic partnership between WSPN and dtcpay announced in October 2024, which established WUSD as a key digital payment option within dtcpay’s expanding merchant network. The addition of Metro Department Store to this network represents a significant step forward in mainstream retail adoption of stablecoin technology, with WUSD being at the forefront of this innovation.
About WSPN
WSPN is a leading provider of next-generation stablecoin infrastructure, committed to building a more secure, efficient, and transparent payment solution for the global economy. Their flagship product, WUSD stablecoin, is pegged 1:1 to the U.S. Dollar and aims to optimize secure digital payments for Web3 users. WSPN’s Stablecoin 2.0 approach prioritizes user-centricity, community governance, and accessibility, paving the way for widespread stablecoin adoption.
Learn more: www.wspn.io | X | LinkedIn
About dtcpay
dtcpay is a regulated Major Payment Institution (MPI) licensed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) to conduct Digital Payment Token (DPT) services and other payment services under the Payment Services Act (PSA). As a leading provider of digital payment solutions, we pioneer the integration of stablecoin acceptance into traditional financial systems. With a vision to make global transactions seamless and sustainable, dtcpay empowers individuals and businesses to embrace the future of payments.
Learn more at dtcpay.com.
About Metro
Metro is one of Singapore’s most iconic & beloved department stores, offering a wide range of products across fashion, beauty, home essentials, and more. With a legacy of trust and quality, Metro continues to innovate to meet the evolving needs of its customers.
JBD Officially Launches MicroLED Printhead Module, Driving Upgrades in the Printing Industry
SHANGHAI, Feb. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In response to growing demands for eco-friendly solutions, cost optimization, and high-speed printing, the printer industry is entering a pivotal phase of technological transformation. As a trailblazer in MicroLED innovation, JBD proudly presents its newly launched MicroLED Printhead Module. Boasting a compact footprint, swift performance, high accuracy, low power consumption, ultra-quiet operation, and heightened reliability, this cutting-edge module is engineered to deliver significant commercial value for printer manufacturers.
Building upon continuous breakthroughs in MicroLED research, JBD’s microdisplay products have already earned widespread acclaim in the AR near-eye display field, underlining the company’s robust expertise in MicroLED technology. This success also lays a solid foundation for broader, cross-sector innovation.
Laser printing integrates laser scanning with electrophotographic technology, corresponding to the “photosensitive drum exposure” and “development-transfer” processes. The surface of the photosensitive drum is coated with a photosensitive material that becomes negatively charged after “exposure,” allowing it to attract positively charged toner. This process enables the complete printing of an image. Traditional laser print modules are based on point-by-point scanning—from a single point to a line—and gradually expose the surface, whereas the MicroLED Printhead Module employs a more streamlined one-dimensional linear LED array. This design enables an entire row to be exposed at once, significantly enhancing printing efficiency.
Conventional laser printers rely on intricate optical and mechanical scanning components, often resulting in sizable hardware, excessive noise, elevated energy consumption, and high maintenance expenses. JBD’s new MicroLED Printhead line not only furnishes an exceptional light source solution for printer manufacturers but also paves the way for comprehensive advancements in printing products.
Compact Size: Streamlined Design for Smaller Devices
The MicroLED module features a minimalist configuration, consisting of a single row of MicroLED pixel arrays and a cylindrical lens array. By eliminating the mirrors, mechanical reflectors, and diffusion lenses commonly associated with laser modules, the unit substantially reduces space requirements.
Ultra-Quiet: Minimal Noise for a Comfortable Environment
Because the MicroLED module exposes the photosensitive drum surface in a pixel-to-pixel manner, it eliminates the mechanical scanning system found in traditional laser light sources. As a result, it avoids the noise associated with mechanical movement, offering users a quieter working environment—especially suitable for offices, libraries, and similar spaces.
Fast Speed: Full-Line Exposure for Higher Printing Efficiency
A laser module’s exposure operates in a zero-dimensional manner, where a mechanical scanner exposes one point at a time, limiting speed by mechanical rotation. By contrast, the MicroLED module uses a one-dimensional approach. A linear LED array exposes an entire row in one go, and the rapid switching of LEDs significantly boosts printing efficiency, saving users valuable time.
Low Power Consumption: Energy Savings Aligned with Green Initiatives
MicroLEDs exhibit high luminous efficiency and minimal power requirements, with each emitter consuming only microwatts (μW). When compared to laser modules, this dramatically reduces overall energy usage. Such low consumption dovetails neatly with global carbon-neutral initiatives, empowering OEMs to develop eco-conscious printing solutions.
High Precision: Accurate Control for Perfect Image Quality
Supporting 1200 DPI resolution, the MicroLED Printhead Module leverages precise spot-control and multiple gray-level technologies to render crisp text and richly detailed images. Capitalizing on small pixel sizes, the technology roadmap for MicroLED printheads may even extend to 2400 DPI or 4800 DPI, satisfying specialized demands for ultra-high-definition printing.
Greater Reliability: Extended Lifespan with Lower Maintenance Costs
MicroLEDs offer stable performance, with a T95 operating life of up to 1,000 hours. Featuring a solid-state structure without mechanical parts, the printhead module avoids the common wear and tear and mechanical failures of laser modules, reducing potential maintenance expenses. These characteristics not only illustrate the long-term economic benefits of the MicroLED Printhead Module but also provide end manufacturers with a more dependable solution.
By integrating the diverse benefits of MicroLED technology into a single printhead offering, JBD is collaborating closely with partners to speed up market adoption and foster meaningful upgrades within the printing sector. In parallel, JBD delivers end-to-end customization—from LED fabrication to module assembly—ensuring precise alignment with each manufacturer’s unique needs.
Dedicated to advancing industry through cutting-edge technologies, JBD’s launch of this MicroLED Printhead product line not only ushers in a breakthrough for printing applications but also highlights the wide-ranging potential of JBD’s MicroLED solutions across multiple domains. Looking ahead, JBD will continue to push the boundaries of MicroLED innovation, offering high-value solutions for a diverse array of sectors.
About JBD
Founded in 2015, JBD stands at the forefront of technological innovation, revolutionizing the realm of MicroLED microdisplay technology. Renowned for delivering the smallest, brightest, and most energy-efficient micro-display panels, JBD has become a global pioneer in advanced display solutions. From ultra-compact MicroLED displays to state-of-the-art projectors and optical modules, JBD’s visionary products are reshaping the future of near-eye display technology. Driven by an unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation, JBD illuminates the path to a brighter, more vibrant digital world.
Explore more about JBD’s groundbreaking advancements by visiting their website or engaging with them on LinkedIn and X (Twitter).
President Prabowo Inaugurates Pegadaian Gold Bank Service, BRI Group Optimistic in Strengthening the National Economy
JAKARTA, Indonesia, Feb. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — PT Bank Rakyat Indonesia (Persero) Tbk (IDX: BBRI) – President of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, officially inaugurated the Pegadaian Gold Bank Service and Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI). This inauguration marks a significant milestone for Pegadaian, a subsidiary of BRI (BRI Group) and a member of the Ultra Micro Holding alongside Permodalan Nasional Madani (PNM), with BRI as the parent company. The inauguration ceremony was symbolized by President Prabowo Subianto placing a gold bar into a treasure box.
President of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, officially inaugurated the Pegadaian Gold Bank Service and Bank Syariah Indonesia (BSI)
“I, Prabowo Subianto, President of the Republic of Indonesia, hereby inaugurate the Pegadaian Gold Bank Service and Bank Syariah Indonesia,” declared President Prabowo Subianto.
President Prabowo Subianto expressed hope that the establishment of the Gold Bank could contribute to Indonesia’s GDP by approximately IDR 245 trillion, create 1.8 million new jobs, strengthen foreign exchange reserves, and help reduce foreign exchange outflows.
The inauguration was also attended by key government and industry leaders, including Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs Airlangga Hartarto, Minister of State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) Erick Thohir, Minister of Finance Sri Mulyani Indrawati, Minister of Energy and Mineral Resources Bahlil Lahadalia, Minister of Investment and Downstream Industry Rosan Perkasa Roeslani, and Governor of Bank Indonesia Perry Warjiyo.
In his report, Minister of State-Owned Enterprises (BUMN) Erick Thohir highlighted that the Bullion Bank initiative aims to tap into 1,800 tons of gold owned by the public.
BRI President Director Sunarso emphasized BRI’s confidence in the Gold Bank initiative, “As the parent of the Ultra Micro Holding, which includes Pegadaian and PNM, BRI is fully committed to supporting the success of this Gold Bank program.”
Pegadaian President Director Damar Latri Setiawan also expressed optimism that the Gold Bank will accelerate economic growth. “Beyond pioneering the Gold Bank, this marks a new milestone where Pegadaian plays a key role in supporting the Asta Cita vision,” Damar said.
As of 2024, Pegadaian managed 90 tons of gold, with sales reaching 9 tons, a 35% increase from the previous year. Meanwhile, BRI’s Gold Investment feature on the BRImo app, launched in February 2024, recorded a transaction volume of IDR 279.8 billion by December.
“Through the Gold Bank, BRI Group is optimistic about contributing to Indonesia’s economic acceleration by providing broader access to gold investments,” concluded Sunarso.
For more information about BANK BRI, visit www.bri.co.id.
VFS Global’s new Indonesia e-Visa on Arrival official platform goes live for 97 nationalities, including South Koreans
- Dedicated website https://indonesiavoa.vfsevisa.id/ to complete application
- Group booking facility for travel agents and tour operators
SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — VFS Global’s new Indonesia Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VoA) platform, is now available for nationals of all the 97 countries eligible for e-VoA, including South Korea. Travellers can now enjoy a quicker and smoother visa application journey through VFS Global and completing the entire process online and receiving a pre-approved e-VoA before departure.
Saffar Muhammad Godam, Acting Director General of Immigration of the Republic of Indonesia, said, “We are committed to continuously improving immigration services, both in terms of quality and integrity. This partnership with VFS Global will help in ensuring that applicants receive seamless, reliable, and efficient service.”
Tato Juliadin Hidayawan, Director of Visa and Travel Documents, said, “The implementation of e-VoA, which is integrated with autogates, not only facilitates tourists but also reduces queues at airports, increasing the comfort and efficiency of immigration clearance. Additionally, this digital system reduces direct interaction between immigration officers and passengers, minimising the potential for abuse of authority.”
Jiten Vyas, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Business Development, VFS Global, said, “The launch of this innovative, secure, and user-friendly digital e-Visa on Arrival platform for Indonesia will undoubtedly streamline the visa application process, making it faster, easier, and more convenient.”
5 reasons to opt for an Indonesia e-VoA:
- Easy to access and process: Foreign tourists can apply for an e-VoA through smartphones and complete the process in only 10 minutes if all required documents are uploaded correctly and completely.
- User-friendly website interface: The website has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for applicants to navigate. Applicants should make sure they have scanned copies of required documents such as passport biodata page, a 3×4 photo, and a round-trip flight ticket.
- Convenient payment using credit cards: The e-VoA application system is designed to be easy to pay, allowing for online payment using credit cards, making it more practical and secure.
- Easy immigration clearance at the airport: Foreign tourists who have obtained an e-VoA can proceed directly to immigration clearance via autogates without having to queue at the manual passport check counter.
- Easy and flexible e-VoA extension: Foreign tourists who want to spend more time in Indonesia can easily extend their visa through the same system. The e-VoA extension can be done once and grants a stay period of 30 days.
Media Contact
PRecious Communications
vfsglobal@preciouscomms.com
GAC AION Unveils the Aion V: Redefining Electric Mobility with Advanced Technology and Design

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 February 2025 – GAC AION, the electric vehicle division of VINCAR Group, is pleased to announce the launch of the Aion V electric SUV. This new model introduces advanced features and a sustainable design, setting new benchmarks in the electric vehicle market.

Product Highlights
The AION V offers a WLTP range of 485km per charge, making it the longest-range option in Category A. It features 3C fast charging technology, allowing up to 300 km of range to be recharged in 15 minutes, the fastest charging EV in its category. Designed for comfort, it includes a spacious interior with 180-degree lie-flat front seats and massage seats, a first in its category.
Design and Luxury
The Aion V electric SUV features a T-Rex Cyber Design with geometric shapes and full LED headlights, available in eight colour options. The interior is designed for comfort and convenience, incorporating soft-touch materials, premium leather seating, and front seats with memory, massage, heating, and ventilation functions. Additional features include a smart multi-function refrigerator, a panoramic glass roof, and a 9-speaker premium sound system with noise-reducing cabin materials to enhance the driving experience.
Innovative Technology
Equipped with the Snapdragon 8155P processor and AEP 3.0 platform, the Aion V smart car is designed for efficient performance and responsive operation. It includes L2 intelligent driver assistance and intelligent navigation with charging station search capabilities for enhanced safety and convenience. Future models are set to be upgraded to L2+, incorporating automatic parking and highway drive assist. The vehicle also supports voice control, CarPlay, and Android Auto for seamless connectivity.
Safety and Performance
The Aion V electric SUV is built with a high-strength body, utilising 72% lightweight materials and Magazine Battery 2.0 technology, designed to meet EURO NCAP’s 5-star safety standards. The battery has undergone extensive testing, demonstrating stability under various conditions. Safety features include a centre airbag, extended airbag curtain, blind-spot monitoring, and a 360-degree camera system, providing enhanced driver awareness and occupant protection.
Sustainable Impact
Aligned with sustainable transportation goals, the Aion V electric SUV operates under a zero-emissions design, reducing pollution and improving energy efficiency. Its 18-in-1 Integrated Power Unit achieves 17.2 kWh/100 km energy consumption, while Silicon Carbide Technology optimises power usage and extends driving range. The Lithium Iron Phosphate (LFP) battery enhances safety, sustainability, and longevity, supporting the brand’s commitment to energy-efficient electric mobility.
“Our new Aion V model epitomises GAC AION’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of what electric vehicles can offer. We are not just selling cars; we’re paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future where electric mobility is accessible to everyone,” shared Ernest Tan, Deputy CEO, VINCAR Group.
Market Availability
The Aion V electric SUV will be available for purchase on 26 February 2025, exclusively through the authorised dealer GAC AION and VINCAR Group. It is priced at $174,988, with a launch discount of $6,000, bringing the effective price to $168,988. The price is valid until March 5, 2025, at 12 PM, and includes a COE rebate of $87,000 under the Non-Guaranteed 8 Bids scheme.
For more details or to book a test drive, visit the Aion V website.
Hashtag: #GACAION
https://aionev.com.sg/
https://www.facebook.com/aion.sg/
https://www.instagram.com/aion.sg/#
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About GAC AION
GAC AION is dedicated to advancing electric mobility, prioritising accessibility, transparency, and reliability. The company’s mission is to make electric vehicle ownership achievable for all, underpinned by a steadfast commitment to innovation and quality.
About VINCAR Group
VINCAR Group is a leading multi-brand car dealer and importer in Singapore, focused on innovation and customer experience. They offer in-house financing, leasing, insurance, and after-sales services, prioritising a customer-centric approach. Committed to value and quality, VINCAR Group provides competitive pricing and a diverse vehicle selection, ensuring reliability through their rigorous vetting process.
VFS Global’s new Indonesia e-Visa on Arrival official platform goes live for 97 nationalities, including Japanese
- Dedicated website https://indonesiavoa.vfsevisa.id/ to complete application
- Group booking facility for travel agents and tour operators
TOKYO, Feb. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — VFS Global’s new Indonesia Electronic Visa on Arrival (e-VoA) platform, is now available for nationals of all the 97 countries eligible for e-VoA, including Japan. Travellers can now enjoy a quicker and smoother visa application journey through VFS Global and completing the entire process online and receiving a pre-approved e-VoA before departure.
Saffar Muhammad Godam, Acting Director General of Immigration of the Republic of Indonesia, said, “We are committed to continuously improving immigration services, both in terms of quality and integrity. This partnership with VFS Global will help in ensuring that applicants receive seamless, reliable, and efficient service.”
Tato Juliadin Hidayawan, Director of Visa and Travel Documents, said, “The implementation of e-VoA, which is integrated with autogates, not only facilitates tourists but also reduces queues at airports, increasing the comfort and efficiency of immigration clearance. Additionally, this digital system reduces direct interaction between immigration officers and passengers, minimising the potential for abuse of authority.”
Jiten Vyas, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Business Development, VFS Global, said, “The launch of this innovative, secure, and user-friendly digital e-Visa on Arrival platform for Indonesia will undoubtedly streamline the visa application process, making it faster, easier, and more convenient.”
5 reasons to opt for an Indonesia e-VoA:
1) Easy to access and process: Foreign tourists can apply for an e-VoA through smartphones and complete the process in only 10 minutes if all required documents are uploaded correctly and completely.
2) User-friendly website interface: The website has a user-friendly interface that makes it easy for applicants to navigate. Applicants should make sure they have scanned copies of required documents such as passport biodata page, a 3×4 photo, and a round-trip flight ticket.
3) Convenient payment using credit cards: The e-VoA application system is designed to be easy to pay, allowing for online payment using credit cards, making it more practical and secure.
4) Easy immigration clearance at the airport: Foreign tourists who have obtained an e-VoA can proceed directly to immigration clearance via autogates without having to queue at the manual passport check counter.
5) Easy and flexible e-VoA extension: Foreign tourists who want to spend more time in Indonesia can easily extend their visa through the same system. The e-VoA extension can be done once and grants a stay period of 30 days.
Media Contact
PRecious Communications
vfsglobal@preciouscomms.com