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Love is in the Air: Agoda Unveils Most Romantic Valentine’s Day Destinations in Asia

SINGAPORE, Feb. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Love is in full bloom as digital travel platform Agoda reveals the top 5 most romantic domestic destinations in Asia for couples to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) leads the pack, followed by Tokyo (Japan), Manila (Philippines), Bangkok (Thailand) and Pattaya (Thailand). These enchanting locales offer a delightful mix of city charm and beach bliss, catering to every couple’s dream romantic retreat.

Valentine’s Day conveniently falls on a Friday this year, making it the perfect excuse for a weekend of love and leisure. With Agoda data showing a 35% increase in accommodation searches for domestic destinations this Valentine’s Day, it seems Cupid has been busy inspiring lovebirds to explore staycations and local getaways.

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Kuala Lumpur enchants couples with its captivating blend of modernity and tradition. The city’s skyline, dotted with iconic landmarks, offers a stunning backdrop for romantic evenings, while its diverse culinary scene invites couples to indulge in a world of flavors.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo charms with its unique fusion of the old and new. Couples can stroll through serene gardens, explore historic temples, and then dive into the vibrant nightlife, making it a city that offers endless romantic possibilities.

Manila, Philippines

Manila, with its warm and welcoming atmosphere, provides couples with a cozy escape. The city’s rich history and cultural sites, combined with its picturesque sunsets, create an ideal setting for love to blossom.

Bangkok, Thailand

Bangkok’s lively energy and serene temples offer the ideal mix of excitement and tranquility. Couples can explore bustling markets, enjoy a romantic dinner cruise on the Chao Phraya River, or find peace in the city’s beautiful temples.

Pattaya, Thailand

Pattaya’s stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife make it a top choice for couples seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether lounging by the sea or dancing the night away, Pattaya offers a romantic escape for every couple.

Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda shared, “At Agoda, we are dedicated to helping couples find the perfect spot to celebrate their love. Whether it’s a city staycation or a beach getaway, Agoda has the best deals to set the stage for a magical weekend of romance.”

With over 5 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda offers endless possibilities for couples to enjoy a romantic getaway. For the best deals, check out Agoda’s mobile app and start planning your romantic escape today. Visit Agoda.com for more information.

UM Scholars Make Scientific Discoveries with Global Impact


MACAU SAR – Media Outreach Newswire – 13 February 2025 – The University of Macau (UM) has strengthened its position as a leading research institution through multiple strategies, including the recruitment of high-calibre scholars from around the world. The groundbreaking scientific discoveries made by these distinguished scholars and their teams have greatly advanced the university’s global influence and Macao’s development as an innovation hub.

From left to right: Prof Chuxia Deng, Chair Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences; Prof Chen Xin, Distinguished Professor and Director of the Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences; Prof Yuen Ka-Veng, Distinguished Professor in the Faculty of Science and Technology.
From left to right: Prof Chuxia Deng, Chair Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences; Prof Chen Xin, Distinguished Professor and Director of the Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences; Prof Yuen Ka-Veng, Distinguished Professor in the Faculty of Science and Technology.

Top-tier academics are vital to the academic and research advancement of a university. UM’s faculty boasts leading scholars from diverse cultural backgrounds who are actively engaged in cutting-edge research in their respective disciplines. Notably, Chuxia Deng, Chair Professor and Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences; Chen Xin, Distinguished Professor and Director of the Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences; and Yuen Ka-Veng, Distinguished Professor in the Faculty of Science and Technology, have made remarkable achievements in cancer research, immunology, and civil engineering respectively.

Chuxia Deng: Advancing Cancer and Precision Medicine Research

Prof Chuxia Deng, a prominent figure in life sciences, has a successful track record in cancer research, focusing on precision oncology, oncogenes and tumour suppressor genes, gene targeting, and drug development. Notably, his breakthrough work involves using BRCA1 mutant mouse models to identify new targets for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC), a highly aggressive form of cancer. His research innovations span a 24-hour cancer drug screening biochip, drug susceptibility testing using patient-derived organoids, and 3D tumour slice culture technology.

Since joining UM in 2014, Prof Deng and his research teams have published 150 papers in top journals, with over 4,300 citation counts. His leadership has significantly boosted the Faculty of Health Sciences’s research output, elevating the number of publications from 43 in 2014 to over 2,400 by 2024, with more than 60,000 citation counts, including over 400 publications with an impact factor ≥10. As the chief scientist of the Ministry of Education Frontiers Science Center for Precision Oncology at UM, Prof Deng spearheads cutting-edge cancer research to enhance early cancer diagnosis and advance personalised treatment for cancer patients through precision medicine.

Chen Xin: Leading the Way in Innovative Immunotherapy

Prof Chen Xin, a renowned scholar in immunology and Chinese medicine, has led groundbreaking studies that advances a safer and more effective treatment for cancer and autoimmune diseases. His team in the Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences (ICMS) at UM, in collaboration with the US National Cancer Institute (NCI), discovered that targeting a specific protein called TNFR2 can enhance anti-tumour immune responses and kill cancer cells, bringing new hope to cancer patients.

Under Prof Chen’s leadership, ICMS has made significant progress in the internationalisation of Chinese medicine. Upholding the motto of ‘seeking innovation through tradition’, the institute has produced many research results with global impact. A series of international symposia have also been held to promote global academic exchange and strengthening international partnerships in the field of Chinese medicine. In addition to advancing innovative research and development, ICMS is also dedicated to training Chinese medicine professionals to support the development of the ‘big health’ industry.

Yuen Ka-Veng: Setting the Foundation for Bayesian Methods in Civil Engineering

Prof Yuen Ka-Veng is the leading scientist of the State Key Laboratory of Internet of Things for Smart City at UM and an eminent engineering expert in Macao, specialising in Bayesian inference, structural health monitoring, and machine learning. According to Web of Science, Prof Yuen is ranked 2nd worldwide in terms of the number of journal publications of Bayesian in all engineering disciplines. In 2024, Prof Yuen was awarded the 15th Guanghua Engineering Science and Technology Prize by the Chinese Academy of Engineering in recognition of his contributions to engineering technology and engineering management.

His pioneering work in developing new Bayesian methods tailored to real-world engineering scenarios has had a significant impact on the advancement of engineering practices and technologies. The methods have been extensively applied not only to structural health monitoring of major structures in mainland China and Hong Kong, but also in many other fields such as air pollution modelling, soil mechanics, rock mechanics, computational physics, disaster mitigation, neuroscience, smart transportation, and communications engineering.

The achievements of these scholars highlight UM’s commitment to academic excellence and innovation, and to establishing Macao as a leading hub for scientific research. The success of these scholars and their teams has not only enhanced UM’s global reputation and amplified Macao’s role in promoting technological development in the Greater Bay Area, but has also contributed to the city’s economic diversification.Hashtag: #UniversityofMacau #UM

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

About the University of Macau

Founded in 1981, the University of Macau (UM) is a comprehensive research-oriented public university of international standing in Macao, with a multicultural campus and a system of whole-person education underpinned by faculties and residential colleges in an international education setup. Eighty per cent of its faculty members are from outside Macao. With English as the primary medium of instruction, the university is committed to producing innovative and socially responsible graduates with a global mindset and international competitiveness.

Website:

From Traditional to Transformational: Stellar Ace Outlines 2025 Evolution


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 February 2025 – In November 2022, the Land Transport Authority (LTA) made a monumental announcement of auctioning off the right to operate ad spaces at approximately 120 pedestrian overhead bridges, underpasses, and covered link-ways in a 10-year contract—a true first for the entity.

One year later, the entity announced that out of seven proposals from four tenderers for the LTA, Stellar Experience, a subsidiary of public transport operator SMRT, had come out on top.

LTA said the proposals were evaluated on their quality, whether tenderers were able to maintain the bus and taxi shelters per LTA’s requirements, as well as their ability to generate non-fare revenue from these road assets.

Stellar Experience, more commonly known within the adland ecosystem as Stellar Ace, was touted to have the strongest overall proposal.

Under the leadership of Tony Heng, president of Stellar Lifestyle, and managing director of Stellar Ace and Stellar Ace Outdoor, the team is actively looking to transform Singapore’s transit network into a vibrant advertising and retail hub.

The corporation’s vision is to advance the Lifestyle 360 concept, and seamlessly blend offline and online activations to create a holistic experience for the millions of commuters who journey with SMRT daily.

Guided by SMRT’s vision—”Moving people, enhancing lifestyles”—Heng is dedicated to transforming Stellar Ace’s advertising ecosystem into an interactive brand experience through integration with retail spaces, event areas, and machine distribution points, along with versatile short, medium, and long-term spaces for retail promotions.

The team is accelerating asset digitalisation by installing cutting-edge anamorphic digital screens at high-traffic MRT stations like Raffles Place, City Hall, and Orchard, offering dynamic, real-time advertising opportunities.

“It’s no longer just about placing static ads in high-traffic areas, but enhancing the commuter experience,” said Heng.

As such, the team is embracing out-of-the-box thinking. A prime example of digitalisation is Stellar Ace’s 3D Ad Crown, featuring creative executions on the roofs of bus shelters. The exciting innovation elevates traditional static panels by incorporating dynamic 3D elements in a conventional bus shelter.

This format captivates and engages commuters in new ways, providing brands with a unique and attention-grabbing platform while transforming a daily commuting journey into an immersive and interactive experience.

“We are continuously working towards ensuring the content reaches the right demographics, and in turn, creates maximum value and impact for advertisers,” he said.

Transforming Stellar Ace’s spaces into lifestyle destinations isn’t without challenges. With users saturated by digital interactions, Heng’s team is rethinking advertising through sensory authenticity and online-offline integration.

As consumers increasingly interact with brands across physical and digital channels, Lifestyle 360 aims to align with how consumers live, travel, shop, and play.

“This allows advertisers to engage their audience at multiple touch-points—whether through an immersive experience at a bus shelter, an interactive event at an MRT station, or a digital ad on a commuter’s smartphone via apps such as WINK+,” said Heng.

Embracing the digital revolution for marketers

Not one to be left behind the digital revolution, the team is also harnessing data-driven insights through AI and machine learning to enhance audience targeting and ROI measurement.

This comes as many marketers investing in OOH advertising say they struggle to ensure their campaigns are targeted and relevant to the right audience. Traditional OOH, marketers say, lacks precise audience insights and engagement metrics.

“By shifting from traditional static formats to dynamic, interactive digital experiences, we’re adapting to the evolving OOH advertising landscape, where engagement is fuelled by technology and personalisation,” Heng said, addressing the challenge faced by marketers.

Endorsing his statement is Tjhin Poi Chung, deputy managing director of Stellar Ace and Stellar Ace Outdoor, who leads the company’s digital transformation and media solutions expansion.

Since joining SMRT in 2022, Tjhin has leveraged his expertise in engineering, AI technology, and business leadership, honed at previous jobs in ST Engineering and the government sector, to drive innovation and enhance operations and the customer experience.

Under his leadership, Stellar Ace is advancing towards a tech-driven, integrated approach to OOH advertising, using latest ridership and footfall data and interactive, multi-touch-point experiences, to deliver success for brands.

“We are leveraging digital data to enhance ROI measurement for marketers,” Tjhin says. By utilising AI and analytics, Stellar Ace can now provide precise audience targeting and real-time campaign tracking.

“Marketers gain actionable insights into audience behaviour, foot traffic, and engagement, ensuring campaigns reach the right people and deliver measurable results.”

Addressing the challenges marketers face, he shares the team is constantly brainstorming ways to help marketers tackle issues. “When it comes to creating targeted advertising, we use our ability to analyse ridership patterns and foot traffic data across the transit network, and our digital team uses this data to target the right audience at the right time, maximising campaign reach,” he added.

Stellar Ace also caters to commuters who prefer engaging with content via their smartphones through its widely recognised WINK+ app, which enhances the physical OOH experience by providing a mobile-first platform for advertisers.

It allows brands to reach commuters through digital formats while offering insights into campaign performance on mobile devices. This creates a more interactive and personalised experience, extending connections beyond traditional OOH.

The future of OOH

At the end of the day, technology is transforming the OOH advertising industry, with digitalisation at the forefront. AI is pivotal in this shift, enabling not just timely messaging, but also the analysis and prediction of consumer behaviour. By leveraging ridership patterns and foot traffic data, advertisers can effectively reach their target audience, resulting in more targeted campaigns and better ROI.

“The integration of more screens and digital platforms into public spaces enables dynamic, real-time content delivery and allows advertisers to tailor messages based on factors such as time of day, weather, location, or audience demographics,” Tjhin said.

As such, marketers must embrace these advancements, including digital screens and AI-driven insights, to stay competitive. Platforms such as its WINK+ app extend reach beyond traditional billboards, offering a mobile-first experience for commuters and engaging audiences on the go.

“Embracing these digital tools is essential for thriving in the evolving OOH landscape,” he added.

Hashtag: #LTA

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

About Stellar Lifestyle

Stellar Lifestyle, a business arm of SMRT Corporation Limited, transforms spaces in and around MRT stations into vibrant lifestyle destinations, enhancing the daily journey for commuters. We innovate to benefit the community by reimagining the use of existing spaces and leveraging the extensive train network to introduce new business models and foster community engagement. As the largest managing agent of retail and advertising spaces in Singapore’s rail network, we bring expertise in property and retail management, media, and digital advertising solutions.

A New Japanese Cultural Experience by Isetan Shinjuku

Experience Japanese Culture with All Five Senses at the “JAPAN SENSES” Campaign – A Limited-Time Event

Showcasing works that embody a uniquely Japanese sensibility, we aim to highlight the charm of both traditional and contemporary culture.

TOKYO, Feb. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Founded in 1886, Isetan offers a special experience to all visitors through a diverse products,  including fashion, foods, arts and offers a wide selection of traditional coming Japanese brands.

JAPAN SENSES
JAPAN SENSES

Isetan Shinjuku Store will hold the “JAPAN SENSES” campaign from February 19 (Wed.) to 25 (Tue.), 2025.

JAPAN SENSES” is a campaign designed to showcase Japanese culture with the world,  highlighting the essence of Japanese sensibility and craftsmanship, while offering visitors the opportunity to experience both traditional techniques and modern pop culture.

Each floor of Isetan Shinjuku will feature unique attractions, including a special 30th-anniversary pop-up store by fashion designer Keita Maruyama, the 30th-anniversary event by Fukagawa Porcelain, exclusive bento boxes and curries celebrating the essence of Japanese dashi (broth), a collaboration with the JRPG “Persona” series, and an exhibition of works by popular plush toy artists.

JAPAN SENSES” Campaign

Dates: February 19 (Wed) – 25 (Tue), 2025

Venue: Isetan Shinjuku Main Building and Men’s Building

URL:

https://cp.mistore.jp/global/en/shinjuku/special/japansenses.html

KEITA MARUYAMA 30th Anniversary SPECIAL POP UP FINALLY in Isetan Shinjuku

KEITA MARUYAMA 30th Anniversary SPECIAL POP UP FINALLY in Isetan Shinjuku
KEITA MARUYAMA 30th Anniversary SPECIAL POP UP FINALLY in Isetan Shinjuku

The Isetan Shinjuku store will host the finale of KEITA MARUYAMA’s 30th-anniversary pop-up, celebrating one of Japan’s leading fashion designers. The pop-up will showcase a variety of exclusive items, including collaboration sneakers with “Maison Mihara Yasuhiro“, eco-bags by Ball & Chain, and unique interior goods.

Main Bldg. 1F Promotion
sneakers will be available for pre-order and will be delivered in May.

Ukiyoe and Contemporary Culture Fusion, Taichi Solo Exhibition “Boku no Kotoba” (My Words)

Taichi: Manga Culture, 55,000 yen (15 x 9.5 cm)
Taichi: Manga Culture, 55,000 yen (15 x 9.5 cm)

Born in 2005, Taichi is a 19-year-old artist who has been passionate about drawing since childhood. He gained recognition for his ability to depict mystical worlds, coming into the spotlight after appearing on a TV program during his junior high school years. Now a university student, he continues to be active in the art scene.

This solo exhibition showcases works that pay homage to Ukiyo-e, blending its traditional elements with contemporary cultural influences from manga and anime to create a unique artistic expression.
Art Gallery, 6F, Main Bldg.
One original artwork per person is limited to purchase.

Fukagawa Porcelain: Craftsmanship in Every Detail, 130th Anniversary “Crafts Created by Time Immemorial

Large bowl, camellia design in ancient celadon glaze, 880,000 yen (diameter 28cm)
Large bowl, camellia design in ancient celadon glaze, 880,000 yen (diameter 28cm)

To commemorate its 130th anniversary, Fukagawa Porcelain will host a special event at Isetan Shinjuku. The “Ancient Celadon Glazed Bowl with Camellia Design”, which was created by Shoka Baba, a traditional craftsman, using a celadon glaze with a deep olive green color developed independently and dyed by him, and other collectible works will be on display. Additionally, new works from the Tani Kiln, a historic climbing kiln that operates only once a year, will be unveiled. This is an event where visitors can experience the skills and spirit of the craftsmen who have passed down the art of pottery making since its founding.
Main Bldg. 5F Kitchen Dining/Artist Piece

Discover the essence of Japanese cuisine with dashi (broth) and umami, the foundational flavors of Japanese culinary tradition, at Isetan Shinjuku!
The “Traditional Japanese Foods for the Future – JAPAN SENSES” will be held to introduce traditional Japanese food culture, techniques, and ingredients such as “dashi” and “umami”. Kyoto-based Kurama Tsujii, renowned for preserving the traditional Kyoto tsukudani craft, will present an exclusive bento box available only at Isetan Shinjuku.
Food Collection, B1F, Main Bldg.

Isetan Shinjuku
Isetan Shinjuku

Isetan Shinjuku
Isetan Shinjuku Store, the top-selling department store in Japan, welcomes domestic and international customers with its high level of hospitality and highly sensitive product lineup, and attracts approximately 25 million visitors a year.

Business hours: 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.

“Eat Paradise” restaurant on the 7th floor of the main building
Business hours: 11:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Address: 3-14-1 Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0022
HP https://cp.mistore.jp/global/en/shinjuku.html 

HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering Leads the Zero-Carbon Era with ‘SMR-Powered Ship’

– Received Approval in Principle (AIP) from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for nuclear-powered container ship

– Unveiled model at U.S. New Nuclear for Maritime Summit – showcasing economic efficiency, performance, and safety

– “Developing a business model by 2030 to accelerate the commercialization of marine nuclear technology”

SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering (HD KSOE), an intermediary holding company for HD Hyundai’s shipbuilding sector, has unveiled a nuclear-powered container ship model utilizing Small Modular Reactor (SMR) technology, accelerating the development of nuclear-powered vessels.

A rendering of a 15,000 TEU-class SMR-powered containership unveiled by HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering
A rendering of a 15,000 TEU-class SMR-powered containership unveiled by HD Korea Shipbuilding & Offshore Engineering

On the 12th(Wednesday), HD KSOE announced that it had revealed its nuclear-powered container ship design model for the first time at the New Nuclear for Maritime Houston Summit, held at the Asia Society Texas Center in Houston, USA.

Previously, HD KSOE had obtained Approval in Principle (AIP) from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) for a 15,000 TEU-class container ship design model applying SMR technology.

The newly unveiled design model features enhanced economic efficiency and safety by incorporating actual equipment and safety design concepts.

Unlike conventional ships, nuclear-powered vessels do not require engine exhaust systems or fuel tanks. HD KSOE has optimized the space previously occupied by large engine room equipment to accommodate additional containers, enhancing economic efficiency. The company has also applied a marine radiation shielding system using a double-tank method with stainless steel and *light water to ensure safety.

Furthermore, HD KSOE, in collaboration with global energy technology company Baker Hughes, has applied a *supercritical carbon dioxide-based propulsion system, improving thermal efficiency by approximately 5% compared to existing steam-based propulsion systems.

HD KSOE plans to establish a marine nuclear demonstration facility at its Future Technology Test Center in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, to verify safety designs.

“Nuclear-powered vessels can be a game-changer in the current shipbuilding market, where carbon neutrality is emerging,” said Patrick Ryan, Chief Technology Officer of ABS. “ABS and HD KSOE will contribute to accelerating the commercialization of marine nuclear technology in the global shipbuilding market.”

Meanwhile, at the summit, a discussion on ‘Maritime Civil Nuclear Propulsion for Large Ships’ was held, featuring Park Sangmin, Head of HD KSOE’s Green Energy Research Lab; Christopher J. Wiernicki, Chairman, President, and CEO of ABS; and John Michael Richardson, former U.S. Chief of Naval Operations.

“HD KSOE is strengthening cooperation not only with major classification societies but also with international regulatory bodies to establish international regulations necessary for the commercialization of nuclear-powered vessels,” said Park Sangmin. “Starting with the land-based SMR reactor manufacturing project, we aim to develop a marine nuclear business model by 2030.”

Since February last year, HD KSOE has been accelerating related technology development through joint research on next-generation SMRs with TerraPower. In December of the same year, the company secured an order to manufacture the main equipment for TerraPower’s Natrium reactor, which is being constructed in Wyoming, USA.

*Light water: Water used as a coolant and neutron moderator in reactors.

*Supercritical carbon dioxide-based propulsion system: A technology that generates energy by heating carbon dioxide in a supercritical state. It enables high-efficiency power generation even at low temperatures and pressures, making it a next-generation power generation technology.

Akeso Announced Enrollment of First Patient in Phase 3 Trial of Cadonilimab for Consolidation Therapy After Concurrent or Sequential Chemoradiotherapy in NSCLC

HONG KONG, Feb. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Akeso, Inc. (9926. HK) (“Akeso” or the “Company”) announced the recent completion of the first patient enrollment in the Phase 3 randomized, double-blind, multicenter clinical trial (COMPASSION-30/AK104-309) for its independently developed PD-1/CTLA-4 bispecific antibody, cadonilimab. This study is evaluating the efficacy of cadonilimab compared to sugemalimab (PD-L1) as a consolidation therapy for patients with locally advanced, non-resectable, non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) who have not experienced disease progression following concurrent or sequential chemoradiotherapy.

The COMPASSION-30/AK104-309 study is led by Prof. Jinming Yu, Academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and Director of the Oncology Hospital at Shandong First Medical University.

Currently, consolidation therapy with immune checkpoint inhibitors following concurrent or sequential chemoradiotherapy is the standard of care for patients with unresectable NSCLC. The use of immune checkpoint inhibitors as consolidation therapy has demonstrated a modest improvement in overall survival for patients. However, despite these advancements, there continues to be a significant unmet clinical need within this patient population, underscoring the urgent demand for more effective treatment options.

As a global first-in-class bispecific antibody targeting both PD-1 and CTLA-4, cadonilimab is anticipated to enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy compared to PD-1/PD-L1 single-target antibodies. Cadonilimab exerts its effects through multiple mechanisms that contribute to the “normalization” of the tumor microenvironment. Its unique tetravalent symmetric structure, combined with Fc modifications, facilitates targeted accumulation in tumor tissues. These distinctive features enable cadonilimab to potentially improve the effectiveness of cancer immunotherapy while minimizing the risk of adverse effects.

About Cadonilimab
Cadonilimab is a novel global first-in-class PD-1/CTLA-4 bi-specific immuno-therapy drug independently developed by Akeso. In June 2022, cadonilimab was granted marketing approval by the NMPA for the treatment of recurrent/metastatic cervical cancer patients who have progressed on or after platinum-based chemotherapy, and became the world’s first approved PD-1/CTLA-4 bi-specific antibody. In September 2024, cadonilimab as a first-line treatment of unresectable locally advanced, recurrent or metastatic G/GEJ adenocarcinoma was approved in China. Currently, the Company is conducting more than 23 clinical trials of cadonilimab combination therapies covering 16 indications including but not limited to cervical cancer, gastric cancer, liver cancer and lung cancer.

About Akeso
Akeso (HKEX: 9926.HK) is a leading biopharmaceutical company committed to the research, development, manufacturing and commercialization of the world’s first or best-in-class innovative biological medicines. Founded in 2012, the company has created a unique integrated R&D innovation system with the comprehensive end-to-end drug development platform (ACE Platform) and bi-specific antibody drug development technology (Tetrabody) as the core, a GMP-compliant manufacturing system and a commercialization system with an advanced operation mode, and has gradually developed into a globally competitive biopharmaceutical company focused on innovative solutions. With fully integrated multi-functional platform, Akeso is internally working on a robust pipeline of over 50 innovative assets in the fields of cancer, autoimmune disease, inflammation, metabolic disease and other major diseases. Among them, 22 candidates have entered clinical trials (including 11 bispecific/multispecific antibodies and bispecific antibody-drug conjugates). Additionally, 5 new drugs are commercially available, and 5 new drugs across 7 indications are currently under regulatory review for approval. Through efficient and breakthrough R&D innovation, Akeso always integrates superior global resources, develops the first-in-class and best-in-class new drugs, provides affordable therapeutic antibodies for patients worldwide, and continuously creates more commercial and social values to become a global leading biopharmaceutical enterprise.

For more information, please visit https://www.akesobio.com/en/about-us/corporate-profile/ and follow us on Linkedin, and X .

KALiNA Power and Crusoe Sign Framework Agreement for Joint Development of Multiple Co-Sited AI Data Centre Projects in Alberta

  • Framework for joint development of multiple Crusoe AI focused data centres co-sited with KALiNA’s near-zero-emissions natural gas-fired power plants using carbon capture and sequestration (Power-CCS)
  • Anticipates Crusoe to own and operate its AI Data Centres contracting for affordable power with KALiNA’s owned and operated Power-CCS plants via power purchase agreements with an investment grade or otherwise credit worthy counterparty of at least 15 years providing KALiNA with stable, long-term cash flow with which to finance each project
  • All sites located with access to critical infrastructure – electricity transmission, gas pipelines, fibre optic cables and carbon sequestration hubs
  • Parties commit to use reasonable commercial efforts to complete a Project Development Agreement. Each PDA will include an indicative long-term tolling Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) as well as provisions for the funding by Crusoe of certain electrical interconnection and gas supply interconnection security payments for each related project.

CALGARY, Canada, Feb. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — KALiNA Power Limited (ASX: KPO) announces that its wholly owned Canadian subsidiary, KALiNA Distributed Power Limited (“KDP“) has entered into a multi-year Framework Agreement with Crusoe for the joint development of Crusoe’s AI Data Centre Projects co-sited with KDP’s 170 MW near-zero-emissions natural gas power plants using carbon capture and sequestration (“Power-CCS“) in Alberta, Canada (the “Co-Sited Projects”). 

The Framework Agreement supports the establishment of Crusoe’s Data Centre footprint in Alberta in a sustainable and commercially scalable manner by utilizing KDP’s near-zero-emissions power under a contracting arrangement which complies with Alberta’s self-supply requirements.  Each potential co-sited project is to be developed under a separate Project Development Agreement (PDA) between KDP and Crusoe (or their affiliates) as a Crusoe owned and operated AI Data Centre contracting for affordable power with an adjacent, co-sited KALiNA owned and operated Power-CCS plant.  It is anticipated that power will be supplied from each Power-CCS Plant to the adjacent AI focused Data Centre pursuant to a power purchase agreement (PPA) with an investment grade or otherwise credit worthy counterparty of at least 15 years which will provide KALiNA with stable, long-term cash flows with which to finance each Power-CCS project. 

Each of KALiNA’s 170 MW Power-CCS plant represents gross unlevered capex of ~CAD$1 billion which is ~CAD$640 million net of cash rebate incentives.

Each of KDP’s current potential project locations are strategically located sites near electrical transmission, gas pipeline infrastructure, carbon sequestration hubs and fibre optic lines.  The initial three project locations are presently comprised of KDP’s Myers Energy Park, the Alsike Energy Park and the newly secured Crossfield Energy Park location. 

The Framework Agreement commits KDP and Crusoe to use reasonable commercial efforts to complete a Project Development Agreement.  Each PDA will include an indicative long-term tolling PPA as well as provisions for the funding by Crusoe of certain electrical interconnection and gas supply interconnection security payments for each related project.  

Environmental desktop and biophysical studies have been completed at the Myers Energy Park and the Alsike Energy Park and is planned to be completed at the Crossfield Energy Park in 2025.   KDP has already filed self-supply and export System Access Service Requests (SASRs) with the Alberta Electric System Operator (AESO) for all three sites. In addition to the initial three current potential co-sited projects, KDP is continuing to develop the Gilby Power Park, for which site control and environmental desktop and biophysical studies have been completed.  KDP has filed generation only SASR’s for Gilby and a new location in the Clairmont area. The business models for Gilby and Clairmont projects are more applicable to virtual power purchase agreements and/or natural gas tolling contracting arrangements and the terms of the Framework Agreement have accordingly been expanded to include the opportunity for Crusoe to contract for power via Virtual Power Purchase Agreements (“VPPAs”) from KDP power projects which are not co-sited. 

Comments

KALiNA Managing Director Ross MacLachlan said

“Our team has worked closely with Crusoe to develop a commercial path forward to keep pace with AI data centre market demand while capitalizing on the unique characteristics of the Alberta market to deliver reliable, affordable natural gas-fired power configured with CO₂ capture and sequestration.  Our negotiations have resulted in a significantly expanded scope that reflects the enormous market opportunity both our companies are seeking to address. This agreement establishes a framework under which up to three projects can be initially developed.  It also provides the potential for additional power plants at all three locations as well as provisions for the parties to jointly develop future prospective sites.  Furthermore, it outlines the potential for Crusoe to contract via virtual power purchase agreements on KDP projects which are not co-sited with Crusoe.

 The Framework Agreement clearly demonstrates a willingness by both parties to capitalise on the pipeline of quality projects that KDP has assembled in Alberta that have all the necessary characteristics and infrastructure to develop multiple co-sited AI data centres powered by our near-zero-emissions natural gas power plants.  Our focus now is to establish project development agreements for each site with an initial focus on the Myers, Alsike and Crossfield projects.” 

– ENDS   –

This announcement was approved and authorised for release by: Ross MacLachlan, CEO.

For further information please contact:

KALiNA Power Limited

Tim Horgan

Executive Director

thorgan@KALiNApower.com

+61 3 9236 2800

+61 449 279 880

Ben Jarvis

Six Degrees Investor Relations

ben.jarvis@sdir.com.au

+61 413 150 448

 

72% of executives plan to embrace AI in 2025, with a quarter targeting AI for specialized tasks like translation

New report from DeepL dives into the state of enterprise AI adoption worldwide and the game-changing potential of Language AI for global businesses

NEW YORK, Feb. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — DeepL, a leading global Language AI company, today unveiled its latest white paper, “The language revolution: how AI improves the way businesses communicate.” Based on findings from a new DeepL survey of EMEA and US business leaders, as well as external sources, the report explores the intersection of language and AI in business, covering critical topics ranging from global corporate AI adoption trends, to the financial impact of poor communication on international businesses, and the real-world impact and value of Language AI tools.

“English has become the go-to language for international business, but the reality is that only about 20% of the world’s population speaks it fluently,” said Jarek Kutylowski, CEO and Founder, DeepL. “This has a significant impact on global businesses and professionals – over half of C-level leaders spend more than an hour each day dealing with ineffective communication, a challenge that also extends to other management and leadership levels. To address this, what we’re seeing through our research is that businesses are increasingly turning to AI solutions – 72% are planning to integrate AI into daily operations, with 25% targeting specific tasks such as translation in 2025.”

Report highlights include:

  • Businesses are budgeting for AI integration: In 2025, businesses will be looking more closely into how AI is bringing ROI-positive value to their organization. Across every region, top AI budgeting allocations include business operations (28%), workplace tools (19%) and specialized tasks such as translation (25%). The Netherlands shows the highest AI spending commitment, with 30% of businesses in the nation planning to integrate AI into all operations, closely followed by Germany (29%), Belgium (28%), France (26%) and the United States (25%).
  • Communication barriers are a significant issue facing global companies: As businesses expand globally and scale into new markets, language barriers are emerging as a key challenge. Market expansion (35%), engaging customers across borders (32%), and customer service (24%) are cited as the top language obstacles faced in their business while navigating this global landscape. In particular, expanding into new markets is a significant challenge for European companies operating in geographies with multiple official languages or export-driven economies – including Belgium (45%), Germany (41%), and the UK (44%) – followed by the US (37%), which represents the world’s second-largest export economy. Of the markets surveyed, France (42%), the US (38%) and Belgium (38%) also reported the most significant challenges while serving customers from other markets; emphasizing the importance of robust multilingual capabilities in those regions.
  • Specialized AI tools like DeepL are combatting top business communication challenges: Language AI is unlocking significant growth and efficiency for global businesses, enabling them to harness language as a strategic asset to better tap into the power of communication and collaboration both internally and externally – all while driving deeper connections and expanding global reach. Businesses are merging Language AI solutions with human expertise and oversight to solve their urgent communication issues and minimize the challenges associated with cross-cultural communication – particularly in highly regulated industries with high-stakes communications, like legal and manufacturing. This includes utilizing Language AI alongside external translation agencies (32%) and supporting in-house translation teams with AI (31%), to embedding AI into key products (26%).
  • Internal communication is a growing priority in European markets: Internal language barriers are leaving global companies struggling to effectively and efficiently move business forward. In particular, The Netherlands (31%) and France (25%) report the highest pressure to support communication between teams speaking different languages, highlighting how linguistic diversity impacts both customer engagement and workplace collaboration. DeepL’s findings are aligned with a 2024 Forbes study that found half of all knowledge workers say they are hampered by communication challenges.

“In order to communicate with people from other countries, naturally, we have to use English, and it’s always urgent. It used to take staff up to half a day to translate a document created in Japanese into English. Now that we are using DeepL, we can do this task very fast,” said Shoji Otsubo, Senior Manager, Panasonic Connect.

Since its inception in 2017, DeepL has become the go-to Language AI provider for businesses around the world, offering cutting-edge translation and writing solutions that are a critical investment for international business growth, addressing communication challenges across various domains. DeepL’s rapid growth and demand worldwide are also reflected by its rapidly-expanding customer network, which now includes over 100,000+ businesses, governments and other organizations worldwide including 50% of the Fortune 500.

Access the full report here. To try out DeepL’s industry-leading AI translation and writing tools for your business, visit www.deepl.com.

Methodology
As a part of DeepL’s ongoing effort to analyze industry-specific and regional trends in AI adoption, Infuse Media conducted a survey in October 2024 on behalf of DeepL. The research targeted 780 decision makers with senior titles (Head, Director, VP, C-level) in key leadership roles in Marketing, Product, IT, Finance, and more from industries such as retail, manufacturing, professional services, and legal. The participants were located in EMEA and the US.

About DeepL

DeepL is on a mission to break down language barriers for businesses everywhere. Over 100,000 businesses and governments and millions of individuals across 228 global markets trust DeepL’s Language AI platform for human-like translation in both written and spoken formats, as well as natural, improved writing. Designed with enterprise security in mind, companies around the world leverage DeepL’s AI solutions that are specifically tuned for language to transform business communications, expand markets and improve productivity. Founded in 2017 by CEO Jaroslaw (Jarek) Kutylowski, DeepL today has over 1,000 passionate employees and is supported by world-renowned investors including Benchmark, IVP and Index Ventures.

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