MOSCOW, RUSSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 January 2024 – Wildberries, one of the largest e-commerce platforms in Eurasia, has expanded its use of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the user experience for customers and sellers on its marketplace.
Customers can now search for products — such as a sweatshirt with a specific print or a uniquely designed chair — by using images that show the kind of product they’re looking for. They simply upload a photo from their media library or from the Internet to the Wildberries app and highlight the area containing the product of interest.
The app automatically identifies the item, displays current prices from different sellers and suggests similar products. This functionality is powered by a neural network trained on a database of millions of Wildberries’s most popular items, along with vector-based databases.
The app also harnesses AI to enable customers to use text or voice search. The search results display products that match the query and provide personalized recommendations tailored to the customer’s style and price preferences, based on their purchase history.
For sellers on the Wildberries marketplace, AI streamlines the process of creating product listings by offering automated suggestions for product descriptions and a photo editor that enhances image quality. Sellers of clothing can forgo costly photoshoots with fashion models by showcasing items on virtual models generated by neural networks.
The platform also utilizes AI to combat unfair competition, including “fake discounts” whereby a seller artificially inflates the price before announcing a sale. Wildberries analyzes the price history of various sellers and prioritizes those sellers who genuinely reduce their prices in its search results.
As an additional resource for marketplace sellers, Wildberries has developed proprietary algorithms that analyze past sales, weather conditions and other factors to determine how well a product is likely to sell. The system forecasts demand, plans delivery routes and optimizes warehouse operations, helping sellers to avoid both overstocking and product shortages.
Hashtag: #Wildberries
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Wildberries
Established in 2004 in Russia, Wildberries is a leading e-commerce platform that currently operates in Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia and Uzbekistan. Wildberries offers a state-of-the-art IT infrastructure to support customers and sellers on its platform, as well as a developed logistics network spanning more than 130 facilities and 50,000 pick-up points across its markets of operation. As of 2024, Wildberries serves a customer base of more than 75 million and processes more than 20 million orders per day.
Ring in the Lunar New Year with Joy, Colour, and Prosperity
Immerse Yourself in the Joyful Installation by Knot Designer Zoe Siu This Lunar New Year
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 January 2025 – This Lunar New Year, Pacific Place and Starstreet Precinct invite you to a celebration of luck, tradition, and modern artistry with the “Weaving Celebration of Fortunes”, running from today till 16 February 2025. Immerse yourself in dazzling installations, special lucky knot charms, exclusive Lai See packets, shopping rewards, captivating performances, and the vibrant energy of a Lion Dance Parade. This festive experience promises to weave joy and prosperity into every corner, making it the perfect way to welcome the Year of the Snake.
Discover Incredible Ropework Displays: Woven Joy by Zoe Siu
At the heart of this celebration is a spectacular installation crafted by renowned Hong Kong knot designer Zoe Siu, whose bold and sculptural creations blend traditional Chinese knotting techniques with modern aesthetics. In addition to the centrepiece, the entire installation features numerous splendid creations by Zoe Siu, showcasing her signature blend of traditional knotting and modern design. It took her and her team about 300 manhours of meticulous work to complete all the weavings, underscoring the scale and dedication involved in this extraordinary artistic endeavour.
This year’s theme features extensive floral arrangements and elegant peach blossoms, symbolising interconnected prosperity and growth. The vibrant colours and modern floral decorations add a refreshing contemporary twist to the installations.
Garden of Woven Delights
Location: Garden Court, Level LG1, Pacific Place
Step into a vibrant and enchanting garden, where woven elements come to life among the blossoms and glowing lanterns, including a stunning giant lantern over nine metres tall. The lantern is adorned with eight intricate knots, such as the Knot of Infinity, representing fortune and success, and the Knot of Prosperity, symbolising abundant wealth and endless opportunities. Inspired by Tang Dynasty palace lanterns, Zoe Siu has skillfully blended techniques from both East and West, incorporating survival knots and macramé alongside traditional Chinese knotting to create a contemporary touch. These designs not only showcase Zoe Siu’s mastery of knotting but also infuse the display with rich cultural significance. Exquisite patterns and textures intertwine throughout the exhibit, enhanced by beautifully crafted woven hangings that invite shoppers to immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere. Adding to the charm are floor lamps surrounded by floral arrangements. Featuring delicately handwoven tops designed by Zoe Siu, the lamps cast a warm, artful glow over this magical weaving celebration.
Prosperity Lanterns
Location: Level L1 (near lululemon), Pacific Place
This dynamic centrepiece installation features a dazzling display of woven lanterns in bright red and orange tones, inviting shoppers to walk through and immerse themselves in the delightful atmosphere.
Interactive Gashapon Machine: Unlock Your Fortune
For a touch of good fortune this holiday season, shoppers can enjoy a special gift with HK$500 same-day electronic spending and registration as an above member*. Upon registration, receive a token for the “Unlock Your Fortune” gashapon machine, where you can try your luck to get one of five exclusive lucky knot charms designed by Zoe Siu. Each charm symbolises a different blessing for the year ahead, so come and discover the festive surprises!
Here are the lucky knots:
Knot of Infinity: Wishing you a year filled with fortune and success in all your pursuits.
Windmill Knot: Wishing you unwavering success and good fortune in every endeavour.
Knot of Togetherness: Wishing you joy and harmony with your dearest loved ones.
Knot of Prosperity: Wishing you abundant wealth and endless opportunities.
Knot of Love: Wishing you a new year overflowing with love and warmth.
Date: Now – 16 February 2025
Time: 10am – 10pm
Location: Level L1 (near lululemon)
*Terms and conditions apply.
Path of Good Fortune
Location: Level L1 (near Lane Crawford), Pacific Place
Step into this mesmerising display, where you can walk along an auspicious bamboo pathway. This immersive setup transforms the space with its intricate weaving yarns, inviting you to explore and bask in the unique atmosphere created by the colourful blooms.
In this zone, bamboo takes centre stage, adding a traditional touch that resonates with Chinese New Year celebrations. Known for its symbolism of good luck, prosperity, and resilience, bamboo is believed to bring blessings for the year ahead. As you stroll along the path, be sure to enjoy the stunning lighting effects that enhance the magic of this unique bamboo garden, creating a truly unforgettable experience.
Woven Dreamland
Location: Park Court, Level L1, Pacific Place
Discover inspiration in this striking and truly unmissable display at Pacific Place. This alluring garden features peach blossoms and new year elements, all harmoniously intertwined. Experience the excitement of exploring this captivating space.
What sets this zone apart is its bold use of colour. Sharp pink and yellow hues are prominently featured here for a refreshing sense of vibrancy and energy.
Glowing Joy
Location: Outside Three Pacific Place on Wing Fung Street and Star Street
Visit Starstreet Precinct on Wing Fung Street, where you can capture stunning photos under the glowing lanterns while admiring the magnificent giant woven floral installation. Elevate your experience by heading to Star Street, where the enchanting glow of lanterns creates a truly magical atmosphere.
Share Prosperity in Style with “Woven Blessings” Lai See Packets
Embrace the spirit of the Lunar New Year with the exclusive “Woven Blessings” Lai See packets, a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. These packets showcase meticulously crafted knot motifs, seamlessly intertwined with vibrant weaving patterns, symbolising unity, good fortune, and heartfelt blessings. The intricate designs pay homage to timeless craftsmanship while infusing a contemporary flair, making them an elegant gesture for sharing prosperity and joy with loved ones.
Each set features 10 exquisite packets, thoughtfully curated in two distinct colour designs—five in each style—to add a vibrant touch to your festive celebrations. The harmonious blend of traditional symbolism and modern aesthetics ensures these Lai See packets are not just a token of wealth but a visual delight that enhances the festive spirit.
As a delightful addition, each set is accompanied by a versatile woven Lai See bag, designed in two striking colour combinations: a warm and inviting pink with red, and a cheerful yellow with orange. This bag is more than just a festive container; it doubles as a chic accessory, perfect for carrying your blessings in style. Its durable yet elegant design ensures it remains a cherished part of your festivities, offering both practicality and a touch of sophistication that extends beyond the New Year.
Celebrate this season of giving with “Woven Blessings” Lai See packets, where tradition meets contemporary design, creating moments of joy and shared prosperity.
Shopping Rewards to Kickstart the Year From now to 28 January 2025, indulge in a series of rewarding shopping experiences designed to kickstart your year in style. Enjoy enticing offers that make it the perfect time to treat yourself to new clothes or fresh items for the new year, and find the ideal gifts for loved ones. Each eligible redemption also includes a token for the “Unlock Your Fortune” gashapon machine, offering exclusive lucky knot charms designed by Zoe Siu. Additionally, Standard Chartered Credit Cardholders may receive extra rewards, elevating the shopping experience even further. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to enhance your shopping adventures while enjoying exceptional rewards!
Accumulated Same-day Electronic Spending
General Rewards*
Extra Rewards
for Standard Chartered Credit Cardholders+
HK$2,800 – HK$5,799
One set of
“Woven Blessings”
Lai See Packets
MOViE MOViE Pacific Place Ticket Exchange Coupon
(valued at HK$130)
Extra
HK$50 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$5,800 – HK$17,999
HK$250 Pacific Place
Shopping e-Voucher
Extra
HK$100 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$18,000 – HK$37,999
HK$500 Pacific Place
Shopping e-Voucher
+ DALLOYAU Almond
Mille Feuille Gift Box
(valued at HK$188)
Extra
HK$250 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$38,000 – HK$87,999
HK$1,300 Pacific Place
Shopping e-Voucher
+ Boutique by The Grand Assorted Butterfly Puff
Gift Box (valued at HK$298)
Extra
HK$650 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$88,000+
HK$2,000 Pacific Place
Shopping e-Voucher
+ Boutique by The Grand Assorted Butterfly Puff
Gift Box (valued at HK$298)
Extra
HK$1,600 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
All eligible redemptions will also be rewarded with one
“Unlock Your Fortune” Gashapon Machine Token to get an exclusive lucky knot charm designed by local knot designer Zoe Siu.
*General shoppers and eligible Standard Chartered Credit Cardholders are required to join the Pacific Place Loyalty Programme – above and meet the accumulated same-day spending requirement by electronic payment during the Promotion Period in order to be entitled to redeem Shopping Rewards. Other Terms and Conditions apply.
+ “Standard Chartered Credit Card” means credit cards issued by Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited, including Standard Chartered Credit Card and its Co-branded Card, MANHATTAN Credit Card and its Co-branded Card (except Standard Chartered Business Card and Standard Chartered Corporate Card).Extra Rewards for Standard Chartered Credit Cardholders is applicable to Mobile Payment Purchase (including Apple Pay, Google Pay™ and Samsung Pay), but NOT applicable to the transactions made via any e-wallets (including but not limited to Alipay, WeChat Pay, Tap & Go, Octopus Wallet and PayMe).
What’s more? Register on Standard Chartered’s website to participate in the Lucky Draw to win two round-trip economy class tickets to Osaka or the latest Samsung smartphone. Please visit sc.com/hk/swiremalls for details.
Terms and Conditions apply. To borrow or not to borrow? Borrow only if you can repay!
Dates: Now – 28 January 2025 Time: 11am – 10pm Location: Gift Redemption Counter on Level L2 (near JOYCE)
Join Us for Festive Performances and a Dynamic Lion Dance Parade!
Experience the joyful spirit of the Lunar New Year with our spectacular Festive Performances, featuring charming a cappella performances, a traditional Eye-dotting Ceremony, and an exhilarating Lion Dance Parade. Join us as talented artists come together to celebrate this joyous occasion, showcasing rich cultural heritage through harmonious melodies and dynamic displays.
Eye-dotting Ceremony and Lion Dance Parade
Welcome the Year of the Snake with blessings and energy at our Eye-dotting Ceremony followed by a Lion Dance Parade.
Date: 4 February (Tuesday, 7th day of Chinese New Year)
Time: 1pm
Location: Park Court, Level L1
Harmonious Echoes of Celebration
Enjoy mesmerising a cappella performances by SENZA A Cappella as they reimagine festive tunes and beloved pop classics. This talented group creates an irresistible atmosphere, blending harmonies and intricate vocal rhythms to bring fresh interpretations of your favourite songs.
Since their debut in 2018, SENZA has made history as the first vocal group to break into the mainstream music scene in Hong Kong. Committed to promoting a cappella singing since 2009, the group’s music videos and cover songs have garnered over eight million views on YouTube.
Date: 8 & 15 February (Saturday)
Time: 2pm and 4pm
Location: Park Court, Level L1
Join us at Pacific Place and Starstreet Precinct to embrace the spirit of the Lunar New Year through artful installations, amazing shopping rewards, and captivating performances. Together, let’s weave a celebration of fortunes and start the Year of the Snake with joy and colour.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Zoe Siu
Zoe Siu is a Hong Kong-based knot designer known for her bold, sculptural accessories and striking ropework installations. She indulged herself in knotting skills, weaving traditional craftsmanship with inventive design. Zoe Siu’s creations are both sophisticated yet playful, contemporary yet timeless. She was invited to collaborate with renowned US fashion icon IRIS APFEL to design an exclusive accessories set.
Dedicated to promoting knotting, Zoe Siu regularly runs workshops for international brands, including 45R, adidas, Marimekko and OMEGA. She has also represented Hong Kong at international exhibitions such as Athens Jewellery Week in Greece in 2019, London Craft Week in 2017 and AUTOR Jewellery Fair in Romania in 2017.
About Pacific Place
Located in the heart of Admiralty, Pacific Place is the destination for exceptional service and unique experiences. As a pioneer of innovative retail concepts in Hong Kong, Pacific Place continues to transform the retail scene by delighting visitors with an array of curated experiences through diversified offerings. Since its inception in 1988, Pacific Place has established itself as Hong Kong’s premier lifestyle hub, a mixed-use development that continues to evolve and grow as the ultimate destination to shop, dine, work, stay, relax and play. It houses one of Hong Kong’s largest collections of luxury brands and diverse dining offerings, making every visit a memorable one. In addition to being a prime transportation hub, Pacific Place is home to five Grade-A office towers, 268 serviced apartments, and four five-star hotels: The Conrad, Island Shangri-La, JW Marriott and The Upper House.
Customer enquiry hotline: (852) 2844 8988 Website: www.pacificplace.com.hk Facebook: @Pacific Place Hong Kong Instagram: @pacificplacehk WeChat: @PacificPlaceHK XiaoHongShu: @Pacific Place HK
About Starstreet Precinct
Starstreet Precinct is a vibrant destination in Wan Chai, comprised mainly of Wing Fung Street, Star Street, Moon Street, Sun Street, and St. Francis Yard. Over the years, the neighbourhood has evolved from a quaint, historic landmark, into an eclectic hangout hotspot for those with a unique sense of style and character. Filled with cosy cafés, restaurants, bars, boutique shops with the most coveted fashion selections, galleries and interior design stores, the precinct offers an array of day-to-night experiences. With a focus on community and a passion to foster a sustainable lifestyle for all, Starstreet Precinct and its tenants are collectively working to build a better future together. Connected to Pacific Place and Admiralty station through the Three Pacific Place underground link, the neighbourhood is a hidden gem in the heart of Hong Kong.
Official website: www.starstreet.com.hk IG: @starstreethk FB: Starstreet Precinct #starstreethk
Pooi To Middle School and HKFYG Lee Shau Kee College emerge as champions Youngest primary school team proudly claims the Most Potential Award
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 January 2025 – The unique allure of a cappella lies in its harmonious melodies, created solely by human voices, without instrumental accompaniment. On 18 January, local and international talent came together to celebrate the art of a cappella at the “Hong Kong International A Cappella Contest Finals.“
At the HKFYG’s “Hong Kong International A Cappella Contest Finals 2024,” the Open Division featured professional teams from Japan, Singapore and Taiwan, who competed alongside local vocal talent in an extraordinary musical showdown.
An annual event organised by The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups (HKFYG), the Contest was a resounding success. The team from Pooi To Middle School claimed both the Championship and Outstanding Harmony titles in the “School Division: Pop Chorus.“ Meanwhile, HKFYG Lee Shau Kee College’s HLC Harmonix won the “School Division: Vocal Band,“ along with the Best Presentation, Outstanding Lead Vocal and Outstanding Harmony awards.
In the Open Division, the youngest a cappella ensemble, Little by little Kids, earned the Most Potential Award with their original children’s song “A Happy Day” and their rendition of the cartoon theme song “Problems Every Day.” Comprising six members aged eight to ten from three different primary schools, including a nine-year-old beatboxer who started teaching himself to beatbox at age four, they delivered their performance with great poise and were met with enthusiastic applause from the audience. All members expressed delight at their competition debut. Despite their young age, they demonstrated sophistication in rhythm, lead vocal, harmony, choreography, beat, and even the finer details of song introduction
Also making their competition debut was Pooi To Middle School’s 12-member team, the winner of the “School Division: Pop Chorus.” Having started practising since last September, they attributed their success to their enjoyment of performing and strong team spirit. The team emphasised the importance of individual performances as well as that of their fellow team members. They revealed that while they initially focused too heavily on pitch accuracy, they disordered that shifting their attention the meaning behind the lyrics eventually enhanced their performance.
The Open Division featured professional teams from Japan, Singapore and Taiwan, who competed alongside local talent in an extraordinary musical showdown. TunaStars from Hong Kong ultimately emerged victorious, securing both the Vocal Band (International) and (Hong Kong) Championship titles.
Carrie Wong, Supervisor of the HKFYG, congratulated the winning teams and commended all participants for their exceptional virtuosity and teamwork. She remarked, “By bringing together top teams from Hong Kong and around the world, the Contest serves as a valuable platform for artistic and musical exchange. A cappella groups, without relying on expensive equipment, showcase the power and versatility of the human voice.”
Wong also expressed gratitude to the judges for their professional guidance and extended special thanks to the Hong Kong Arts Development Council for its steadfast support. She affirmed the HKFYG Cultural Services Unit’s continued commitment to promoting a cappella education and fostering exchange through the art form.
The panel of judges for the “Hong Kong International A Cappella Contest Finals” included: Ray Chu, Pop and Jazz Artistic Director of Taiwan Choral Music Center; Zhang Mingming, Chief Executive Officer of Guangzhou Modern A Cappella Club; baratti, A Cappella Producer and Member of Japanese vocal harmony group “Nagie Lane”; Alfred Wong, composer and recipient of CASH Golden Sail Music Awards; and Guddy Chan, renowned vocal coach.
Appendix: Prize winners of the “Hong Kong International A Cappella Contest 2024 Finals”
School Division: Pop Chorus
Prize
School/Team
Champion, Outstanding Harmony Award
Pooi To Middle School
Second Place, Best Presentation Award, Outstanding Lead Vocal Award
HKFYG Lee Shau Kee College’s HLCers
School Division: Vocal Band
Prize
School/Team
Champion, Best Presentation Award, Outstanding Lead Vocal Award, Outstanding Harmony Award
HKFYG Lee Shau Kee College’s HLC Harmonix
Second Place
SKH Lam Kau Mow Secondary School’s LKaMella
Third Place, Outstanding Rhythm Award
Kwok Tak Seng Catholic Secondary School’s Trend
Best Arrangement Award
Po Leung Kuk Tang Yuk Tien College’s ERA
Open Division: Vocal Band (International)
Prize
Team
Champion (International), Champion (Hong Kong), Best Presentation Award
TunaStars (Hong Kong)
Second Place, Best Arrangement Award, Outstanding Lead Vocal Award
JiU (Taiwan)
Third Place
SHAKA-SHOKU-SHAKAI (Japan)
Outstanding Harmony Award
TunaDream (Hong Kong)
Most Potential Award
Little by little Kids (Hong Kong)
Hashtag: #ACappella #contest #HKFYG
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About the HKFYG Cultural Services Unit
The HKFYG Cultural Service Unit has long been dedicated to advancing local a cappella development and expanding opportunities for youth participation in arts and cultural activities. Through diverse a cappella training programmes and events organised annually, it has engaged over 370,000 participants from more than 300 secondary schools. In recognition of its contribution, the HKFYG was honoured with the “Arts Education Award (Non-school Category)” by the Hong Kong Arts Development Council in 2016. Signature initiatives such as the “Hong Kong International A Cappella Festival,” “A Cappella Education Programme” and “Hong Kong Melody Makers” continue to promote music appreciation and nurture new a cappella groups, enriching the city’s cultural landscape. For details, please visit https://csu.hkfyg.org.hk.
Supported by: This project is supported by the Hong Kong Arts Development Council. Hong Kong Arts Development Council supports freedom of artistic expression. The views and opinions expressed in this project do not represent the stand of the Council.
About The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups
The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups (HKFYG) was founded in 1960 and is now the city’s largest youth service organisation. For the past six decades, it has been committed to serving the youth of Hong Kong by providing a variety of services, activities and programmes, which have an annual attendance of nearly six million. We encourage youth to reach their fullest potential, and with community support, we now have over 90 service units. We also have 12 core services, which include the Youth S.P.O.Ts, M21 Multimedia Services, Employment Services, Youth at Risk Services, Counselling Services, Parenting Services, Leadership Training, Volunteer Services, Education Services, Creativity Education and Youth Exchange, Leisure, Cultural and Sports Services, and Research and Publications. Our aim is to motivate young people to grow into responsible and dutiful citizens and we now have over 250,000 registered volunteers and over 500,000 registered members. We believe that our motto HKFYG * Here for You reaffirms our commitment and dedication to the young people of Hong Kong. For more details, please visit hkfyg.org.hk
Cialfo, Singapore based edtech leader, has undergone a corporate restructuring to form the foundational building block of Manifest Global.
New Delhi-based Kaaiser becomes Manifest Global’s first strategic investment.
SINGAPORE, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Manifest Global, a pioneering global education investment firm headquartered in Singapore, announces its establishment as the parent company of Cialfo, Explore, and Kaaiser; some of the most reputable and trailblazing brands of the global education industry.
With the vision to connect the world through growth, prosperity, and innovation, Manifest Global is poised to redefine global standards of excellence and innovation in the world of international student mobility. It aims to do so by empowering stakeholders across the education ecosystem to connect with each other through the best of technology and gold standards in services.
Cialfo, a Singapore-based edtech leader since 2017, has undergone a corporate restructuring to form the foundational building block of Manifest Global. Now operating as distinct entities under Manifest Global, Cialfo serves the K12 market, Explore focuses on student and counselor outreach for university stakeholders, and Kaaiser has built a world class brand within Student Placement Services. This corporate evolution reinforces Manifest Global’s dedication to creating a world where every student, irrespective of background, gains access to premier higher education opportunities.
Rohan Pasari, CEO of Manifest Global, shared, “Manifest Global marks the beginning of an ambitious chapter in our journey to reshape global education. By uniting brands like Cialfo, Explore, and now Kaaiser under one visionary group, we are creating a unified ecosystem dedicated to the mission of simplifying global student mobility and fostering meaningful connections between students, parents, educators, and services based institutions worldwide.”
Investment in Kaaiser: Strengthening Global Student Mobility
As part of this transformational journey, Manifest Global is delighted to announce a strategic investment in Kaaiser, a New Delhi-based education company renowned for its expertise in international student counseling.
Established in 1997, Kaaiser is a trusted member of the Association of Australian Education Representatives in India (AAERI) and has played a pivotal role in enabling Indian students to explore the best education opportunities in Australia and beyond. In fact, Kaaiser represents the prestigious Group of 8 universities from Australia: a rare feat in itself.
Kaaiser’s exceptional reputation, and deep-rooted partnerships with leading Australian universities positions it as a valuable addition to Manifest Global’s portfolio.
Speaking on the investment in Kaaiser, Rohan added, “Kaaiser’s reputable pedigree and legacy in the Indian international higher-ed market, combined with their committed expertise in connecting students with top-tier institutions made them a natural fit for Manifest Global. Together, we’re not just investing in a company; we’re investing in the future of countless students who will benefit from expanded access and resources.”
Kapil Chandok, Founder-Director of Kaaiser, remarked, “Becoming part of Manifest Global’s portfolio is a transformative step for Kaaiser. This investment allows us to amplify and enhance the student’s journey and experience right from application to enrolment. We wish to further our mission of enabling access to quality international education by leaning on Manifest’s visionary leadership and access to its world class technology and operational efficiency.”
About Manifest Global
Manifest Global is a global education investment firm headquartered in Singapore, specializing in building companies that connect the world towards growth, prosperity, and innovation. With a portfolio of brands including Cialfo, Explore, and Kaaiser, Manifest Global is dedicated to enhancing global student mobility and fostering an interconnected education ecosystem. It’s backed by prominent global funds including Susquehanna Asia Venture Capital, Square Peg Capital, Tiger Global, SEEK Growth, DLF Ventures, Cercano Management, January Capital, and more. For more information, visit manifest.inc.
About Cialfo
Cialfo is the world’s leading AI-powered platform for high school college counseling, streamlining the career exploration, college search, and application sending process. It equips counselors with a comprehensive workflow solution and provides students with a centralized hub for profile building, career exploration, and university discovery. Learn more at cialfo.co.
About Kaaiser
Established in 1996, Kaaiser is a premier education consultancy based in New Delhi, India. With over 29 years of experience in facilitating international student mobility, Kaaiser is a trusted name in the industry, representing the entire Group of Eight (Go8), an elite group of Australia’s top research universities. Kaaiser is also proud member of the Association of Australian Education Representatives in India (AAERI). Learn more at kaaiser.com.
Cyndi Wang takes the stage and brings an enthusiastic opening performance
TAIPEI, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Taiwan Television Enterprise (TTV)’s Lunar New Year’s Eve special 2025 TTV SUPER STAR will be broadcast globally on January 28th. This large-scale music event accompanies Chinese audiences around the world in celebrating the final night of the year. Cyndi Wang will take on the role of the TTV SUPER STAR leader, kicking off this year’s program with her dreamy and sweet performance. Numerous renowned Chinese artists and international superstars will be divided into red and white teams, delivering spectacular performances back-to-back to welcome the Year of the Snake with audiences worldwide.
2025 TTV SUPER STAR Grand Opening _Photo credit: TTV
The TTV Super Star, now in its 16th year, continues to captivate audiences with its spectacular red and white team singing competition, accompanying Chinese viewers around the world during the Lunar New Year’s Eve family gatherings to welcome the new year. In 2025, renowned Chinese artists and international superstars will take the stage, including popular South Korean girl group Kep1er, BAEKHO, Cyndi Wang, Show Lo, MJ116, Mixer, Amber An, YELLOW, Chih Siou, Bii, TRASH, The Last Day of Summer 831, Henry Hsu, W0LF(S), Accusefive, ØZI, Shi Shi, and Wing, among others.
Cyndi Wang takes the TTV Super Star stage for the eighth time, this year serving as the program’s opening ambassador for the very first time. With her sweet and energetic performance, she sets the tone for the show. Dressed in a stunning red dress featuring a heart-shaped cutout design on the right waist, Cyndi dazzled the audience. Accompanied by 20 dancers, she seemed to radiate love with every step of her choreography. Cyndi brought elements from her highly praised concert performance to the stage, delivering a spectacular medley of “Just Break Up” and “Heart to Heart” on Lunar New Year’s Eve. Her vibrant and electrifying performance is sure to ignite the energy of the entire audience. Cyndi also revealed that this year she will transform into Cupid, making a special appearance in the TTV Super Star opening video. Playfully shooting an arrow, she transitions into her performance of “Just Break Up,” symbolizing renewal and fresh beginnings. Don’t miss the broadcast of this spectacular performance on Lunar New Year’s Eve!
The spectacular TTV program, the 2025 TTV SUPER STAR, will be broadcast on Lunar New Year’s Eve (January 28, 2025) on Taiwan Television (TTV Main Channel). The overseas broadcast platforms include StarHub in Singapore, Astro in Malaysia and Brunei, and TTV SUPER STAR official YouTube channel (except in Taiwan and overseas licensed areas). People all around the world can experience the Lunar New Year atmosphere of TTV SUPER STAR through the above platforms! For more information, please visit to the official Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/superstarttv/
SINGAPORE, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As the ‘Year of the Snake’ approaches in the Lunar New Year calendar, digital travel platform Agoda invites travelers to explore destinations where they can safely encounter these fascinating creatures in Asia Pacific.
The snake, a symbol of wisdom and transformation, plays a crucial role in ecosystems worldwide. Understanding these reptiles is essential for appreciating their ecological importance.
The APAC region is home to over 600 species of snakes. These reptiles are often encountered in both urban and rural areas, necessitating caution due to their presence. Despite the fear they may evoke, snakes play a crucial role in ecosystems by controlling pest populations and maintaining ecological balance. Understanding their importance can help foster coexistence and appreciation for these often-misunderstood creatures.
Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda shared: “Growing up in Australia, I’ve had my fair share of snake encounters and know how important it is to be educated about these fascinating animals. The five destinations recommended by Agoda aren’t just great for vacationing but are also perfect spots to awaken our inner herpetologist as we slither into the ‘Year of the Snake’.”
Agoda has identified five destinations in the Asia Pacific region where travelers can safely learn about and observe snakes.
Bali, Indonesia In Indonesia, visitors of the Bali Reptile Park can encounter a variety of reptiles, including numerous snake species. The park provides an engaging environment for visitors to learn about the ecological roles of snakes and their importance in maintaining balanced ecosystems. The Bali Reptile Park is available to book on Agoda.
Bangkok, Thailand The Red Cross Snake Farm in the heart of Bangkok, part of the Queen Saovabha Memorial Institute, is renowned for its educational initiatives. Visitors can witness live snake handling demonstrations and learn about venom extraction, making it a valuable experience for those interested in herpetology and snake conservation.
Byron Bay, Australia Australia is home to some of the world’s most venomous snakes, making awareness and education crucial for locals and visitors alike. The Byron Bay Wildlife Sanctuary offers Snake Safety Awareness Seminars, providing a comprehensive educational experience on Australia’s venomous snake species. These sessions, led by experienced venomous snake handlers, cover topics such as snake habitats, behavior, and first aid techniques for snake bites.
Hong Kong Hong Kong Snake Safaris, established in 2017 by long-term resident and nature enthusiast William Sargent, offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse wildlife of Hong Kong. As a snake catcher for the Hong Kong Police, Sargent leads small groups on night safari hikes, providing an educational experience. Participants can observe 46 species of snakes in their natural habitat. These safaris often attract individuals looking to overcome their fears.
Singapore The Herpetological Society of Singapore, a volunteer-run group of herpetology enthusiasts, is dedicated to the conservation, appreciation, and study of reptiles and amphibians in Singapore and Southeast Asia. The society emphasizes education and outreach, offering regular public guided walks to explore local wildlife. This makes the society a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about these fascinating creatures and their habitats.
Agoda offers over 4.5 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in the same booking. For deals on these and other destinations, visit Agoda.com/deals or download the Agoda app.
The Gartner® Peer Insights™ Customers’ Choice Distinction is based on feedback and ratings from end-user professionals who have experience with the product or service
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 January 2025 – Trend Micro Incorporated (TYO: 4704; TSE: 4704), a global cybersecurity leader, has announced that it was named a Customer’s Choice in the 2024 Gartner Peer Insights Voice of the Customer for Cloud-Native Application Protection Platforms. According to Gartner, “Cloud-native application protection platforms (CNAPPs) are a unified and tightly integrated set of security and compliance capabilities designed to protect cloud-native infrastructure and applications.”
Rachel Jin, Chief Enterprise Platform Officer at Trend: “Organizations have been grappling with a proliferation of security tools that fail to provide unified risk visibility, comprehensive protection for multi-cloud environments, and effective detection and response capabilities for hybrid clouds. That’s why we’re delighted to be named one of just four Customer’s Choice for CNAPP, with a ‘willingness to recommend’ customer rating of 96% based on 81 reviews submitted as of December 2024 on Gartner Peer Insights for Cloud-Native Application Protection Platforms market. We believe this recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to innovation and delivering exceptional customer experiences to help address the most pressing challenges in today’s dynamic and complex infrastructure landscape.”
Trend averaged a 4.7-star rating from customer reviews, three-quarters (72%) of which were five-star reviews and 27% four-star. It scored particularly highly in Product Capabilities (4.7) and Sales Experience (4.7) based on 81 reviews submitted as of December 2024.
Today’s businesses are leveraging cloud-native application in ever-greater numbers to drive competitive advantage, but too often cybersecurity solutions are still playing catch up.
Siloed point solutions lack automation, create security gaps for risk to thrive in, and exacerbate friction between security and developer teams caused by time-to-market pressures.
Trend Vision One™ – Cloud Security offers a modern approach to CNAPP for customers. The centralized platform enables deep visibility into risks, preventative measures such as runtime protection, and rapid response actions designed to minimize exposure.
By combining these capabilities in a single platform, organizations can remove developer-security friction, enhance compliance, and continuously mitigate risk in the cloud, through features such as:
Cloud misconfiguration checks for open Amazon S3 buckets, databases and network ports
Runtime monitoring and protection of cloud workloads such as instances and containers
Automated detection of vulnerabilities within containers, virtual machines (VMs) or serverless functions
Exposure scanning for CVEs, secrets, sensitive data and malware
Infrastructure as code (IaC) and container image scanning enable early risk detection, allowing issues to be addressed before deployment to production.
Agentless scanning capabilities identify risks, vulnerabilities, and threats in workloads where deploying agents is not possible.
File security scanning detects and prevents any malicious files from being uploaded to critical cloud-native applications
Cloud detection and response (CDR) correlates telemetry from workloads, applications, and cloud logs to provide security teams with real-time visibility into suspicious activities in cloud accounts
Data security posture management (DSPM) helps identify sensitive information and correlates it with predictive attack paths, enabling organizations to prioritize the most critical risk based on their most valuable assets
Cloud infrastructure entitlement management (CIEM) continuously monitors permissions and identity activities to prevent unauthorized access and potential lateral movements within cloud accounts
Disclaimer: Gartner, Voice of the Customer for Cloud-Native Application Protection Platforms, Peer Contributors, 27 December 2024 Gartner® and Peer Insights™ are trademarks of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved. Gartner® Peer Insights™ content consists of the opinions of individual end users based on their own experiences, and should not be construed as statements of fact, nor do they represent the views of Gartner or its affiliates. Gartner does not endorse any vendor, product or service depicted in this content nor makes any warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this content, about its accuracy or completeness, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. Hashtag: #trendmicro #trendvisionone #visionone #cybersecurity
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Trend Micro
Trend Micro, a global cybersecurity leader, helps make the world safe for exchanging digital information. Fueled by decades of security expertise, global threat research, and continuous innovation, Trend Micro’s AI-powered cybersecurity platform protects hundreds of thousands of organizations and millions of individuals across clouds, networks, devices, and endpoints. As a leader in cloud and enterprise cybersecurity, Trend’s platform delivers a powerful range of advanced threat defense techniques optimized for environments like AWS, Microsoft, and Google, and central visibility for better, faster detection and response. With 7,000 employees across 70 countries, Trend Micro enables organizations to simplify and secure their connected world. www.TrendMicro.com
BANGKOK, Jan. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 30th Thai International Travel Fair, a key event celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Thailand, opened on January 16 at Bangkok’s Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), with China receiving special honors as the guest country.
As China relaxes its visa-free transit policy, Zhejiang Province’s tourism sector has experienced significant growth, with expectations that the number of inbound tourists from Southeast Asia for 2024 has tripled compared to the previous year. The region’s engagement at this major B2B tourism platform is proving essential in promoting its cultural tourism sectors and enhancing its international profile.
At the fair, Zhejiang featured a collection of engaging presentations and interactive displays at its “Hello, China” themed exhibit. The booth included detailed tourism maps, extensive promotional materials, and guides, complemented by thoughtfully designed cultural souvenirs that gave visitors a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage and unique character.
In addition, Zhejiang’s cultural and tourism ambassadors delivered a compelling presentation themed “Picturesque Jiangnan.” They highlighted two tourism routes: the “Elegant Tour of Jiangnan” and the “Mountain-Sea Scenic Exploration Tour.” These routes effectively combine the province’s stunning natural landscapes with its rich cultural heritage, generating considerable interest among Thai tourists in visiting the region.