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Kia and Samsung Partner to Integrate SmartThings Pro into Kia PBVs

–          Kia and Samsung collaborate to enhance the digital ecosystem of Kia’s Platform Beyond Vehicles (PBVs) for business
–          Samsung’s B2B IoT platform – ‘SmartThings Pro’ – will be integrated into Kia PBVs for seamless connectivity between vehicles and business environments
–          The ‘Plug & Play’ business model will allow small business owners to quickly and flexibly customize their PBVs to suit their specific needs
–          Kia and Samsung plan to explore new IoT solutions and global expansion, building on Korea’s reputation for smart technology

SEOUL, South Korea and TARRAGONA, Spain, Feb. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Kia Corporation has entered into a strategic partnership with Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. to introduce next-generation ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT) solutions for its Platform Beyond Vehicles (PBVs) offerings.

Kia and Samsung Partner to Integrate SmartThings Pro into Kia PBVs
Kia and Samsung Partner to Integrate SmartThings Pro into Kia PBVs

The two companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding during Kia’s 2025 EV Day in Spain, marking a significant step toward redefining both the ‘In-Vehicle’ and ‘Out-of-Vehicle’ experience for PBV customers. 

The signing ceremony was attended by Sangdae Kim, Head of Kia’s PBV Division, and Chanwoo Park, Executive Vice President of B2B Integrated Offering Center at Samsung Electronics.

The collaboration aligns with Kia’s wider Platform Beyond Vehicle strategy, which seeks to expand the role of PBVs beyond transportation into customized business solutions that can be integrated into broader digital ecosystems.

“Kia PBVs are designed to be more than just vehicles, they are intelligent business solutions that connect seamlessly with digital ecosystems,” said Sangdae Kim, Head of Kia’s PBV Division. “We anticipate that our business collaboration with Samsung, leveraging its AI B2B solution SmartThings Pro, will extend the vehicle user experience for our business customers beyond PBVs into the broader IoT ecosystem. This partnership is expected to create new opportunities for discovering customer value.”

Kia will integrate Samsung’s IoT platform, ‘SmartThings Pro’, into its PBVs, enabling wireless control of connected devices and technologies through a ‘Plug & Play’ service. This solution allows business customers to integrate and manage IoT-enabled appliances without complex installations, simply by attaching a smart connector.

“By integrating SmartThings Pro into Kia PBV, we plan to present an intelligent new way for businesses to be connected to their customers,” said Chanwoo Park, Executive Vice President of B2B Integrated Offering Center at Samsung Electronics. “We will provide an optimized integrated store management experience based on customized solutions to cater for a range of B2B customers including the self-employed and small business owners.”

Connectivity between PBVs and business environments

By integrating SmartThings Pro into its PBVs, Kia is enabling automated connectivity between vehicles and business spaces. This integration allows B2B customers to configure business routines, activating the appropriate routine based on the destination entered in the PBV’s ‘In-Vehicle Infotainment’ (IVI). This allows for seamless and secure management and monitoring of external business operations, even while on the road.

Expanding PBV business solutions for global B2B customers

Alongside SmartThings Pro integration, Kia and Samsung plan to develop specialized IoT solutions tailored to the unique needs of PBV business customers across various industries.

The two companies will first launch pilot services for small business owners and self-employed customers as part of this partnership. Moving forward, they will work on developing IoT product lines specifically for PBVs and bundled solutions tailored to the needs of B2B clients. They also aim to create new business models and extend their services to B2B customers globally.

– END –

Kia Corporation – about us 
For more information, visit the Kia Global Media Center at www.kianewscenter.com

Gravity Sets to Strengthen Ragnarok IP’s Dominance in Southeast Asia in 2025

Four Ragnarok Titles Poised to Captivate Gamers Across the Region!

SINGAPORE, Feb. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Global gaming company Gravity is set to expand its presence in Southeast Asia by introducing four new Ragnarok IP titles in 2025, further energizing the region’s gaming market and reinforcing the franchise’s lasting popularity.

Gravity first entered the Southeast Asian market in 2003 with the launch of its flagship PC online game, Ragnarok Online, in Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia. The success continued in 2018 with the introduction of the mobile MMORPG Ragnarok M: Eternal Love, which quickly soared to the top of sales charts across multiple regions, sparking a renewed Ragnarok phenomenon.

Since 2021, every Ragnarok title released—including Ragnarok X: Next Generation, Ragnarok Origin, Ragnarok: Rebirth, and The Ragnarok—has been met with overwhelming enthusiasm, further solidifying the franchise’s legacy in Southeast Asia. In the first half of 2025, Gravity and its overseas branches will captivate players once again by introducing four highly anticipated Ragnarok IP titles, each offering unique gameplay experiences: Ragnarok M: Classic, Ragnarok Idle Adventure Plus, Ragnarok V: Returns, and Ragnarok: Back to Glory.

  • ‘Ragnarok M: Classic’ Supports Character Growth and Delivering Classic Fun

First, ‘Ragnarok M: Classic’, which was released on February 14, encouraged fair competition among users through a play style that allowed self-sufficiency in equipment and items without purchasing from stores, using only the in-game currency, Zeny. Players can continuously earn rewards through automatic hunting 24 hours a day even when offline. To further enhance character progression, the game offers a free monthly pass packed with 17 exclusive benefits.

Following the pre-download launch in Southeast Asia, it achieved the top 1 in popular games in the Apple App Store in Thailand, Philippines, and Malaysia, while ranked 2nd in Singapore and 3rd in Indonesia. Upon its official launch, the game ranked 2nd and 4th in the top sales rankings on the Apple App Store in Thailand and the Philippines, respectively. It continues to perform strongly, maintaining the No.2 spot in popular games in Thailand and No.5 in Singapore on Google Play, reflecting its growing popularity in the region.

  • ‘Ragnarok Idle Adventure Plus’ Delivers Efficient Idle Play with Exciting New Content 

Gravity has officially launched Ragnarok Idle Adventure Plus, a vertical idle RPG, on February 20th across global markets, excluding select regions. It combines automatic battle and an idle growth system, allowing you to grow your character and acquire resources even when offline. Featuring modern graphics, the game’s UI and UX have been optimized for an enhanced user experience. Various contents such as 5 job groups, team composition system, various dungeons, seasons, and theme events were also planned to double the fun of the game.

Following the pre-download launch in global regions, it ranked 4th in popular games on the Singapore Apple App Store, 5th in the Philippines and Malaysia, and 6th in Thailand, reflecting strong user interest even before the official release. After the official launch, it ranked 1st in popular games on Google Play in Brazil and Singapore, 2nd in Thailand and the Philippines, and 5th in Malaysia, achieving initial success and raising expectations for future performance.

  • ‘Ragnarok V: Returns’—A Multi-Platform MMORPG Unveiling a Valkyrie’s Unique Story 

‘Ragnarok V: Returns’ is an MMORPG that is the official sequel to ‘Ragnarok Valkyrie Uprising’ that has captivated over 5 million users worldwide. The game captures the cute and adorable charm unique to Ragnarok in its graphics, and offers a variety of content such as a solid story, various occupations and character customization, battle support mercenaries, and a pet system to provide a unique kind of fun. Notably, players can set up their personal stores, similar to Ragnarok Online, with a secure transaction system using passwords. Ragnarok V: Returns enhances accessibility by supporting multiple platforms, allowing players to seamlessly enjoy the adventure on both PC and mobile.

  • ‘Ragnarok: Back to Glory’—A Next-Generation 3D Ragnarok Fantasy Adventure 

Gravity is set to elevate the Ragnarok experience with Ragnarok: Back to Glory, an upgraded 3D MMORPG that builds upon the success of Ragnarok: Rebirth, which launched in Southeast Asia in June 2024. It has all the advantages of existing adventure game production, graphics implemented with 3D backgrounds of various colors, and horizontal and vertical play methods, and has optimized tutorials, character balance, interface, and UI. It offers diverse content with varying difficulty levels, equipment training, and a pet system. One of Ragnarok: Back to Glory’s most exciting innovations is its new server exchange system, which unites players from Korea, Southeast Asia, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau, allowing seamless item trading across regions.

Gravity Business Director Kim Jin-hwan said, “In the first half of 2025, we are introducing four distinct Ragnarok IP titles to Southeast Asia, each offering a unique experience. We are confident that players will enjoy the variety and excitement of exploring multiple titles at once, as each title has its own charm.” He added, “We ask for your interest and love for the four attractive Ragnarok IP titles that will be launched in the first half of the year. We have also prepared generous benefits for each title, so we hope you enjoy all four games and immerse yourself in the world of Ragnarok.”

For more details on the four Ragnarok IP titles launching in Southeast Asia in the first half of 2025, visit the official introduction pages: (https://www.ragnarokland.com/sea).

4 new Ragnarok IP titles in 2025
4 new Ragnarok IP titles in 2025

[Gravity official website] http://www.gravity.co.kr 

[Introduction page for 4 Southeast Asia region launch titles] https://www.ragnarokland.com/sea

[About Gravity]

Founded in April 2000, Gravity is a South Korean game company and a global gaming leader listed on NASDAQ. Its flagship Ragnarok IP has surpassed 203 million global accounts as of August 31, 2024, and has ranked as the second most preferred Korean game in the global Hallyu trend for five consecutive years. Ragnarok Online has also demonstrated its worldwide popularity, securing the No. 1 spot in the “‘Korean Game Users in Overseas Market‘” category across multiple regions, including Brazil, Indonesia, the UK, and the US.

Gravity currently has a strong global network with its subsidiary ‘Gravity Neocyon (Korea)’ and overseas branches ‘Gravity Communications (Taiwan), Gravity Game Link (Indonesia), Gravity Interactive (USA), Gravity Game Arise (Japan), Gravity Game Tech (Thailand), Gravity Game Hub (Singapore), and Gravity Game Vision (Hong Kong).’ Together with the subsidiaries, Gravity is carrying out global publishing business that discovers and distributes not only Ragnarok IP games but also games on various platforms and genres such as PC, mobile, console, and IPTV, thereby expanding awareness and influence worldwide. In addition, along with the expansion into MD, animation, and screen golf business using the Ragnarok IP, content business is also currently being develop, including webtoon production and brand collaboration to discover new IP.

-. Representative title

MMORPG ‘Ragnarok Online’ (launched in 2002), ‘Ragnarok M’, ‘Ragnarok Origin’, ‘Ragnarok X: Next Generation’, ‘THE Ragnarok’, etc.

 

Oudomxay Explosion Causes USD 1.1 Million in Damages

Oudomxay Explosion Causes USD 1.1 Million in Damages
Oudomxay Explosion Causes USD 1.1 Million in Damages

An explosion at a Chinese-owned auto parts shop in Namy village, Xay district, Oudomxay Province, on 14 February that claimed the lives of four people, resulted  in an estimated LAK 22.5 billion (USD 1.1 million) in damages, according to the provincial Department of Labour and Social Welfare.

The fire reportedly broke out before the explosion, with the shop owner and employees attempting to extinguish the flames. Moments before firefighters arrived, a massive blast occurred, causing widespread destruction across multiple villages.

The explosion damaged numerous properties, including shops, temples, and houses in Namy, Nalao, and Nasao villages. Provincial and district authorities have since appointed a steering committee and a resolution committee to mediate the situation and assess the damage.

The blast affected a total of 142 houses, 133 families, two temples, eight shops, and two large vehicles, with estimated losses amounting to LAK 15.5 billion (USD 760,000).

In Namy village, 119 houses, a temple, and two large vehicles were damaged, with costs estimated at LAK 14.9 billion (USD 730,000). In Nalao village, 19 houses, a temple, and two shops suffered damage, with losses estimated at LAK 616.8 million (USD 30,000). In Nasao village, four houses and two shops were damaged, with repair costs estimated at LAK 27.4 million (USD 1,300).

Following the disaster, provincial and district officials visited the injured and affected families, providing support and assistance. Police believe the fire was caused by a large amount of flammable material stored on the premises.

The explosion was followed by several other fire incidents in Laos later that month.

On 25 February, a fire broke out in a luxury home in Xaythany district, Vientiane, where a woman lost her life while her husband sustained injuries. Despite the arrival of five fire engines and a crew of 20 firefighters, they were unable to save her.

The next day, on 26 February, another fire erupted in the early hours in Xaysettha district, Vientiane, claiming the life of an elderly man. Authorities are currently investigating the causes of both fires.

Government of the Republic of Botswana And De Beers Group Confirm Diamond Partnership For The Next Generation

Transformational agreements boost Botswana’s economic development potential and secure De Beers’ long-term share in world’s greatest diamond resources


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 February 2025 – The Government of the Republic of Botswana (the “Government of Botswana”) and De Beers Group (“De Beers”) announced that, following the conclusion of negotiations announced on 3 February 2025, the two partners have now signed the formal new agreements for a 10-year Sales Agreement (which may be extended by a further 5 years) and a 25-year extension of the Mining Licences (from 2029 through to 2054) for the 50:50 Debswana mining joint venture.

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Honourable Bogolo Joy Kenewendo, Minister of Minerals and Energy for Botswana, said: “We are proud to announce the signing of this landmark new agreement, which will underpin the success of our diamond industry as we enter an exciting new phase of Botswana’s sustainable economic development. We hope that these agreements will bring some level of stability and rebuild market confidence in the diamond industry. We are looking forward to our renewed partnership with De Beers; together we will drive development through diamonds and build a brighter future for Batswana.”

Al Cook, Chief Executive Officer of De Beers Group, said: “These are groundbreaking agreements. The half-century partnership between the Government of Botswana and De Beers is considered the greatest public-private partnership in the world. Now we are both extending and improving it. For De Beers, it is a privilege to secure our ongoing participation in the world’s greatest diamond resources for decades to come. I am also extremely proud that through the Diamonds for Development Fund, we can further transform opportunities for the people of the world’s leading diamond country.”

In summary, the formal agreements represent:

  • A 25-year extension of the Debswana mining licences from August 2029 to July 2054. This will enable the Debswana joint venture to deliver long-term value from its existing mining assets and mine life extension projects beyond the current mining licence period. Mine life extension projects include Jwaneng Cut-9, Jwaneng Underground and Orapa Cut-3.
  • A renewed 10-year Sales Agreement for Debswana’s rough diamond production, with a further five-year extension period where certain criteria are met. Under the renewed Sales Agreement, the Government of Botswana’s rough diamond sales company, Okavango Diamond Company (“ODC”), will sell 30% and De Beers will sell 70% of Debswana’s production for the first five years; for the subsequent five years ODC will sell 40% and De Beers will sell 60% of Debswana’s production; and both parties will sell a 50% share for the five-year extension period. As part of this arrangement, De Beers and ODC have also both committed to supply diamonds for beneficiation in Botswana in line with their share of Debswana supply.

In addition, a transformational package of commitments focused on supporting Botswana’s economic development objectives and advancement of the diamond industry has been agreed, including:

  • The creation of the Diamonds for Development Fund to support economic growth, diversification and jobs in Botswana in line with Botswana’s Vision 2036 and National Development Plan. De Beers has committed to an upfront investment of BWP 1 billion (c. $75 million) and further annual contributions from its dividends from Debswana, based on Debswana’s performance.
  • A package of initiatives to be undertaken by De Beers designed to enhance local beneficiation of diamonds and increase participation of the people of Botswana in the diamond industry. These include investment in a diamond jewellery manufacturing facility, establishment of a De Beers Institute of Diamonds grading laboratory and starting up a diamond vocational training institute in collaboration with industry partners.
  • Co-investment by the Government of Botswana and De Beers in marketing initiatives to boost diamond demand. The marketing investments will be for category and other marketing programmes, agreed annually, aimed at stimulating rough diamond sales, protecting the ethical integrity of diamonds, and to maintain and build consumer confidence in the product. De Beers and the Government of Botswana have committed to co-invest over the life of the Sales Agreement and in proportion to their relative shares of Debswana supply.

Hashtag: #DeBeersGroup #Debswana #Botswana





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

About Botswana

Botswana, a thriving democracy, is located in Southern Africa. It is the topmost producer of diamonds by value. Botswana is renowned for the rule of law, including respect for property rights. Heralded for its ease of doing business in the mining sector, it is by no coincidence that it is a premier investment destination for mining.

The Botswana government has placed a strong emphasis on effective management of its diamond resources, recognizing their pivotal role in the nation’s economic development. By exercising careful oversight and strategic partnerships, Botswana maximises revenue from diamond sales, strengthening its position as a key player in the global diamond market and ensuring that these valuable resources drive sustainable socio-economic growth. With a focus on sustainable practices, the government is dedicated to ensuring that the wealth generated from diamond mining contributes significantly to the welfare of its citizens. Revenue from these sales is strategically reinvested to foster growth, infrastructure development, and social programmes, ultimately positioning Botswana as a stable and prosperous socio-economic hub in the region. This commitment underscores the government’s vision of enhancing the livelihoods of its people while promoting overall national prosperity, thereby solidifying Botswana’s reputation as a forward-thinking and resilient nation in the face of global economic challenges.

About De Beers Group

Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with diamond mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers Jewellers and Forevermark, and other pioneering solutions such as diamond sourcing and traceability initiatives Tracr and GemFair. De Beers Group also provides leading services and technology to the diamond industry in the form of education and laboratory services and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology services. De Beers Group is committed to ‘,’ a holistic and integrated approach for creating a better future – where safety, human rights and ethical integrity continue to be paramount; where communities thrive and the environment is protected; and where there are equal opportunities for all. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo American plc group. For further information, visit .

World Wisdom Agriculture Technology Exploration, 25 March focus on the World Irrigation Science and Technology Exhibition

BEIJING, Feb. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — From March 31 to April 2, 2025, the 11th Beijing International Wisdom Agriculture and Irrigation Technology Expo and World Irrigation Technology Conference will be held in Beijing National Convention Center. At the same time, the third Beijing International Water Conservancy Science and Technology Expo was held.

The conference is an innovation highland linking digital agriculture and irrigation technology at home and abroad, and is also the most professional and largest wisdom agriculture and irrigation exhibition in China. With an exhibition area of 30,000 square meters, 800 enterprises from 33 countries and regions around the world will display the world’s leading advanced equipment and technology, including 20 of the world’s top 500 enterprises and listed companies.

15,000 buyers from more than 10 countries and regions such as the United States, Italy, the Netherlands, Israel, Australia, Spain, France, Turkey, Cyprus, Japan and South Korea will visit and purchase.

In the same period, the Southeast Asia Agricultural Irrigation System Promotion Conference, the Silk Road-countries and Russia Agricultural Irrigation System Promotion Conference, the Beijing International Wisdom Agriculture Conference, the world’s first new technology and new products promotion conference, the global intelligent agricultural equipment innovation Ceremony and other activities were held, bringing together the world’s agricultural cutting-edge technology and promote international trade cooperation.

If you want to know about this exhibition, welcome to visit our website:www.chinaite.com.cn

Media Contact:
Taoran Hu, 463611470@qq.com 

SANY Group’s Daotong Village Rural Revitalization Project Named 2024 Best Practice Case, Setting Benchmark for Sustainable Development

– Integrated Smart Elderly Care, Green Infrastructure, and Eco-Agriculture Offer Globally Replicable Rural Model

SHANGHAI, Feb. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The China Association of Public Companies recently recognized SANY Heavy Industry and the SANY Foundation’s rural revitalization project in Daotong Village, Lianyuan City, Hunan Province as a 2024 Best Practice Case for Rural Revitalization by Listed Companies. Launched in 2019, this flagship initiative supports China’s rural revitalization and the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The project integrates smart elderly care, green infrastructure, and eco-agriculture, establishing a sustainable and replicable model for global rural development.

Smart Elderly Care: Building a Sustainable Aging-Friendly System
In Daotong Village, where the elderly constitute 21% of the population, an initiative has established a comprehensive care system that blends the expertise of social workers, professional caregivers, and cutting-edge smart healthcare technology. The central healthcare facility, now a hub for health management, daytime care, and cultural engagement, accommodates 12,500 visits each year. The facility has created 631 digital health profiles to provide personalized care for each resident. Additionally, in collaboration with both public and private sectors, the project has facilitated aging-friendly renovations in 17 low-income homes, ensuring their occupants’ safety with advanced emergency response technologies. To ensure the initiative’s sustainability and potential replication elsewhere, a team has compiled a standardized operational manual.

Green Infrastructure: Driving Sustainable Rural Progress
The project upgraded Daotong’s infrastructure, including overhauling its drinking water network and restoring Longtang Lake’s ecosystem to meet WHO water standards. A 530-unit solar-powered streetlight network cuts annual carbon emissions by 42 tons while illuminating all main roads. The innovative Daotong Micro-Fund empowers community governance, funding eight public space upgrades and fostering a “co-creation, co-management, and co-sharing” model.

The project revitalized 158 acres of abandoned farmland through chemical-free farming, creating 64 jobs and lifting over 40 impoverished households to stable income levels. The introduction of high-value products like multicolor brown rice and “light-snow” strawberries to broader markets has significantly enhanced their agricultural value.

Culture & Education: Unleashing Rural Soft Power
The Daotong Academy and volunteer network form a cultural revitalization matrix. The academy has hosted 110 training sessions on smart farming tools and nature-based education, benefiting 1,057 villagers. A dedicated 97-member volunteer team contributes over 3,000 service hours annually. Cultural initiatives, such as the Farmers’ Harvest Festival, have drawn 1,100 participants, strengthening community cohesion and building a unique rural cultural identity.

Guided by the ethos of “providing scientific knowledge for public benefits”, SANY Heavy Industry and the SANY Foundation prioritize data-driven monitoring and professional operations to ensure long-term sustainability. The project has been honored as a National Model Aging-Friendly Community, a Key Rural Revitalization Initiative in Hunan Province, and a Golden Key – China Action for SDGs awardee.

Moving forward, SANY Group will deepen its integrated rural development efforts, refining a globally replicable model that promotes sustainable development and contributes Chinese wisdom and the SANY Solution to rural transformation worldwide.

Coordinated regional strategy pays dividends

BEIJING, Feb. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from China Daily: This year marks the 11th anniversary of the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei coordinated development, a strategy that has reshaped the area.

A view of the Grand Canal CBD in the Beijing Municipal Administrative  Center. Wang Danfeng / for China Daily
A view of the Grand Canal CBD in the Beijing Municipal Administrative Center. Wang Danfeng / for China Daily

The strategy focuses on “one core and two wings”. One core refers to Beijing’s leading role in the coordinated development of the BeijingTianjinHebei region. Primary tasks include relieving Beijing of functions nonessential for the capital, optimizing its capital functions and addressing the “big city” problems. While advancing the relocation of functions nonessential for the capital, efforts are being made to promote reorganization, driving the wider development of the BeijingTianjinHebei region.

Over the past decade, the three places have not only pursued the relief of functions nonessential for the capital but advanced the harmonized growth of the “two wings to the capital city”: Beijing Municipal Administrative Center in Tongzhou district and the Xiong’an New Area in Hebei province. This has led to increased integration across key sectors, propelling the region toward a new era of collaborative progress.

By mutually reinforcing each other’s strengths, they have fostered a new atmosphere of coordinated development. In 2024, Beijing, Tianjin and Hebei achieved impressive GDP growth rates of 5.2 percent, 5.1 percent and 5.4 percent, respectively, all surpassing the national average.

The combined regional economic output soared to 11.5 trillion yuan ($1.58 trillion), underscoring the BeijingTianjinHebei region’s pivotal role as a driving force for high-quality national development.

This year, Beijing is poised to achieve breakthroughs in the implementation of the BeijingTianjinHebei development strategy, with a focus on accelerating the establishment of a modern capital metropolitan area, local officials said.

Key initiatives include the steadfast relief of functions nonessential for the capital, the orderly relocation of landmark projects from State-owned enterprises and government departments, and the enhancement of public services through the use of reclaimed spaces.

Furthermore, emphasis will be placed on upholding high standards and quality in the development of the Xiong’an New Area, particularly in critical areas such as basic education, healthcare, and vocational training innovation. Support will be extended to the advancement of the Zhongguancun Science Park in Xiong’an.

Beijing is set to expedite the high-quality development of its administrative center, advancing projects like a comprehensive transport hub, a national green development demonstration zone, and fostering innovative industrial growth in the Tongzhou-Wuqing-Langfang area.

Prioritizing coordinated innovation and industrial collaboration, efforts will be directed toward leveraging the Jingjinji National Center for Technology Innovation, which promotes the incubation and transformation of technological achievements across the BeijingTianjinHebei region.

Moreover, measures will be taken to enhance the quality and efficiency of advanced manufacturing clusters; establish the BeijingTianjinHebei intelligent connected new energy vehicle sci-tech eco-park; and boost the development of commercial aerospace, low-altitude industries, and synthetic biology, collaboratively nurturing new quality productive forces in the region.

To accelerate the construction of a modern capital metropolitan area, Beijing will enhance transport infrastructure by completing the tunnel section of the Beijing-Tangshan Intercity Railway and initiating a high-speed road linking Chengde city in Hebei with Pinggu district in Beijing. Moreover, the coverage of customized shuttle bus services for commuting in Beijing will be expanded.

Greater action will be taken to address air pollution during autumn and winter, and enhance joint management of cross-border rivers like the Chaobai and Yongding.

 

Alpro Foundation & Universiti Teknologi MARA: Addressing Malaysia’s Pharmaceutical Waste

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Feb. 27, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Malaysia is facing a growing environmental and public health threat due to improper disposal of pharmaceutical waste. Research indicates that 67% of Malaysians discard expired medications incorrectly—either by flushing them down the toilet or tossing them in regular trash—leading to contamination of the country’s vital water sources. With 99% of Malaysia’s domestic water supply coming from surface water, the presence of pharmaceutical residues in rivers and lakes poses serious risks to both human health and ecosystems.

(From left: Mindy Leong (Branding Manager of Alpro Pharmacy); Ostwin Paw ( CEO of Alpro Foundation); Professor Dato. Dr. Yamin bin Yassin (Rector of UiTM Negeri Sembilan); Prof. Dato Dr. Abu Bakar Abdul Majeed (Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy in UiTM) )
(From left: Mindy Leong (Branding Manager of Alpro Pharmacy); Ostwin Paw ( CEO of Alpro Foundation); Professor Dato. Dr. Yamin bin Yassin (Rector of UiTM Negeri Sembilan); Prof. Dato Dr. Abu Bakar Abdul Majeed (Dean of the Faculty of Pharmacy in UiTM) )

A study by the Malaysian Ministry of Health found that only 15% of the population is aware of the correct methods for medication disposal. Meanwhile, researchers have detected traces of antibiotics, hormones, and painkillers in 35% of Malaysia’s waterways, threatening aquatic life and increasing antibiotic resistance risks. One of the biggest challenges remains accessibility—over 60% of rural households lack nearby pharmaceutical waste disposal facilities.

Recognizing the urgency of the issue, Alpro Foundation, the corporate social responsibility (CSR) arm of Alpro Pharmacy, Malaysia’s largest prescription pharmacy chain, is taking a monumental step toward environmental sustainability and public health by signing a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM).

A Strategic Collaboration to Drive Change

The MoA encompasses four key initiatives designed to advance pharmaceutical waste management and public awareness:

  • Identifying, Categorizing, and Cost Estimation of Public Pharmaceutical Waste – Research will be conducted to classify and quantify pharmaceutical waste, assessing its environmental impact and economic implications.
  • Readiness Assessment of Stakeholders – This study will evaluate the preparedness of key stakeholders, including healthcare providers and the public, in implementing safe medication disposal practices across Malaysia.
  • Development of Educational Tools – UiTM and Alpro Pharmacy will create innovative educational materials designed for both pharmacy students and the general public to promote best practices in medication disposal.
  • Community-Based Awareness Campaigns – A grassroots approach will be employed to engage communities and drive behavioral change regarding pharmaceutical waste disposal.

A Nation-Wide Effort for a Sustainable Future

Since the launch of the Safe Medication Disposal Campaign in 2021, Alpro Foundation has made significant strides:

  • Partnered with over 800 schools and universities, reaching more than 300,000 students through school talks.
  • Collected more than 100,000 pledges nationwide from walk-in customers, committing to the safe disposal of unwanted medications.
  • Installed safe medication disposal bins in all 300 Alpro Pharmacy outlets nationwide, ensuring convenient and responsible disposal access for the public.
  • Reached over 50,000 families through safe medication disposal outreach programs, coloring competitions, medication safety competitions, and public education events.

In 2025, the Foundation aims to further expand its impact with the Faculty of Pharmacy, UiTM:

  • Enhancing Public Pharmaceutical Waste Identification & Management: Conducting large-scale data collection and classification of pharmaceutical waste to better understand its impact and advocate for improved disposal methods.
  • Educating Stakeholders on Readiness & Implementation: Engaging with over 350,000 individuals, including students and corporate stakeholders, to assess and enhance their preparedness for responsible pharmaceutical waste disposal.
  • Developing Educational Tools for Public & Pharmacy Students: Expanding outreach programs to 250,000 families through school talks, interactive workshops, and community engagement activities to improve public understanding of proper disposal techniques.
  • Strengthening Community-Based Awareness Campaigns: Establishing a dedicated awareness landmark, the “Little Red House”, outside Alpro’s headquarters, serving as both a disposal hub and an educational center for the public.

Protecting Malaysia’s Water Sources Through Responsible Disposal

“We have seen a growing number of healthcare providers and individuals recognizing the importance of safe medication disposal, but more needs to be done,” said Mr. Ostwin Paw, CEO of Alpro Foundation. “This MoA with UiTM represents a crucial step forward in protecting our environment, enhancing public education, and ensuring future generations inherit a healthier planet.”

Professor Amrahi Buang, President of the Malaysian Pharmacists Society, added, “Proper pharmaceutical waste management is no longer optional—it is a necessity. This partnership between Alpro Pharmacy and UiTM will help shape the future of safe medication disposal practices in Malaysia.”

En. Shahiri, Senior Principal Assistant Director of Program Perkhidmatan Farmasi, Ministry of Health, who is also leading My MediSafe initiative remarked, “The Ministry of Health strongly supports this initiative, as improper medication disposal poses risks to both public health and the environment. We look forward to working with all stakeholders to enhance awareness and facilitate responsible disposal solutions.”

Prof. Dato Dr Yamin Bin Yassin, Rector of UiTM Cawangan Negeri Sembilan, stated, “This collaboration with Alpro Pharmacy aligns with UiTM’s commitment to community engagement and sustainability. By combining research, education, and public awareness, we can drive meaningful change in pharmaceutical waste management.”

Alpro Foundation invites everyone to take part in this vital initiative. Dispose of your unwanted medications responsibly and contribute to a cleaner, safer Malaysia. For more details on the Alpro Safe Medication Disposal Campaign and to find a disposal bin near you, please visit https://www.alpropharmacy.com/services/medication-disposal-service/

About Alpro Pharmacy

With a humble beginning starting with a single pharmacy outlet in the small town of Port Dickson in 2002, Alpro Pharmacy is now a diversified community chain pharmacy that provides comprehensive primary healthcare solutions via over 300 outlets including Alpro Pharmacy, Alpro Clinic, Alpro Physio and Alpro Baby, both online and offline, nationwide. It is supported by a team of more than 650 healthcare professionals, ranging from doctors, pharmacists, nutritionists, dietitians to physiotherapists and many other healthcare professionals.

Serving more than 3 million families in Malaysia, Alpro Pharmacy is the first and only community pharmacy in the country to provide RM1 million product liability insurance to safeguard the supply of genuine medications. With over 500,000 prescriptions filled per year, Alpro Pharmacy is also the largest prescription pharmacy chain in Malaysia.

For more information, please visit https://www.alpropharmacy.com.