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TCMA joins COP29 with progress of ‘SARABURI SANDBOX’ attracting green funding to support Thailand’s Net Zero 2050

TCMA showcases one-year progress of the ‘SARABURI SANDBOX’ at COP29, uniting local and global stakeholders to accelerate the joint actions, combining ‘policy-technology-funding-governance’ to increase Thailand opportunities to access green funding towards Net Zero 2050


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 December 2024 – Dr. Chana Poomee, Chairman of Thai Cement Manufacturers Association (TCMA), revealed that TCMA has been participating in COP for the third consecutive year, including COP29 hosted by the Republic of Azerbaijan from November 11–22, 2024, in Baku. The conference revolved around the theme In Solidarity for a Green World. Thailand, represented by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, showcased its achievements at the Thailand Pavilion, covering key areas: climate policy, climate technology, climate action, and climate finance.

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At COP29, TCMA, in collaboration with Department of Climate Change and Environment (DCCE), Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA), and UNIDO, presented lessons learned from the innovation ecosystem within the ‘SARABURI SANDBOX.’ Highlighting its one-year progress, TCMA conducted the seminar ‘SARABURI SANDBOX: Leading Thailand’s Pathway to a Low-Carbon City’ at the Thailand Pavilion and the GCCA Pavilion, demonstrating its pivotal role in transitioning Thailand’s industrial sector to a competitive and sustainable low-carbon economy.

Over the past year, the ‘SARABURI SANDBOX’ has achieved significant milestones through a Public-Private-People Partnership (PPP) thanks to the cooperation between TCMA and Saraburi Province led by the Governor of Saraburi, and domestic and international agencies. Some key successes include: 1) over 80% of construction projects in Saraburi now using hydraulic cement 2) the cement industry increasing its use of alternative fuels and renewable energy to 26% 3) a pilot project for cultivating energy crops, such as Napier grass, as alternative fuels for the cement industry 4) the installation of a solar carport with a renewable energy system at Saraburi City Hall 5) community waste management initiatives led by local administrative organizations, and 6) community forest projects to expand green areas across 38 locations.

The project has also attracted international collaboration. Princeton University has studied the province’s renewable energy potential to inform future implementation plans while GCCA facilitates global knowledge sharing and policy alignment to drive more projects in different aspects. These efforts are integral to implementing the Thailand 2050 Net Zero Cement and Concrete Roadmap and securing green funding for action-oriented projects.

“Having a clear plan, multi-sector cooperation and the right partnerships together with the vision of international organizations and commitment to reducing carbon of national organizations as well as actionable initiatives of local industries, is the important element to drive the change” said Mr. Thomas Guillot, Chief Executive of GCCA. “Thanks TCMA for their dedication, by what TCMA and members of Thai cement producers do is very incredible and important and can be inspire the other countries. The ‘SARABURI SANDBOX’ demonstrates TCMA’s astonishing pioneering role, and GCCA is proud to support these efforts with clear targets. UNIDO has further strengthened the initiative by connecting TCMA with essential funding sources.”

Dr. Chana, TCMA Chairman emphasized the urgency of accelerated action. “Currently, SARABURI SANDBOX can be seen the promising progress but global peers are also advancing rapidly. Thailand must to accelerate multilateral collaboration from all sectors. Harmonizing the government policies, eliminate regulatory barriers in transitioning to low-carbon economy, implementing low-carbon projects by private sector, involving of local communities, together with international organizations support both low carbon technology and green funding will be key to Thailand’s ability to drive a sustainable and competitive low-carbon transition.”
Hashtag: #TCMA #ThaiCementManufacturersAssociation

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

Zurich Resilience Solutions and GoImpact Capital Partners forge strategic alliance to bolster climate resilience across Asia Pacific


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 December 2024 – Zurich Resilience Solutions (“ZRS”), the commercial risk advisory and services unit of Zurich Insurance Group (Zurich), and GoImpact Capital Partners (“GoImpact”) are pleased to announce a strategic alliance aimed at empowering businesses in Asia Pacific to address the growing challenges of climate change.

This collaboration integrates ZRS’ advanced physical climate risk analysis, proprietary climate and financial loss data, and specialized tools with GoImpact’s sustainability education expertise, delivering a comprehensive solution to help businesses identify, assess, and adapt to climate risks.

Enhancing climate resilience with ready-to-go solutions

The partnership offers a ready-to-go suite of solutions that address the urgent need for actionable climate adaptation strategies. Businesses can benefit from:

  • Data-driven climate risk assessments: ZRS’ proprietary tools to evaluate exposures to physical climate risks like extreme weather and supply chain disruptions.
  • Climate resilience guidance and training: Support for organisations to build resilience in their assets, operations, and people.
  • ESG knowledge upskilling: GoImpact’s structured sustainability learning programmes to keep companies informed about market trends and regulatory requirements.
  • Regulatory reporting support: Assistance in meeting disclosure and reporting requirements related to physical climate risks.

By combining ZRS’ technical expertise with GoImpact’s practical learning resources, the alliance delivers a robust toolkit for businesses to enhance resilience and seize opportunities in the sustainability landscape.

Driving climate resilience and sustainability in business

Initially targeting businesses in Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia, the strategic alliance aims to address key climate risks such as extreme weather events, supply chain disruptions, and operational vulnerabilities. Leveraging ZRS’ deep knowledge in climate resilience and GoImpact’s strong regional presence in sustainability advocacy, the alliance is well-positioned to empower companies to implement effective climate adaptation solutions.

Commenting on the partnership, Dr Amar Rahman, Global Head Climate & Sustainability Solutions, Zurich Resilience Solutions said: “Zurich Resilience Solutions’ partnership with GoImpact highlights the critical role of education in fostering climate resilience. The appetite for implementing effective solutions hinges on understanding the challenges at hand and the potential impact of inaction on business operations.”

“Through this collaboration, we aim to elevate awareness and empower public and private sector entities to take meaningful steps toward sustainability, developing solutions that protect their operations and strengthen their resilience against climate change.”

With better knowledge of the latest ESG trends, organizations can be better positioned to take advantage of market conditions and build a sustainable future for themselves and increase the resilience of the communities in which they operate.

“We are excited about this timely partnership between Zurich Resilience Solutions and GoImpact. Our combined strengths are complementary and form a holistic toolkit of offering on risk assessment, learning and advocacy that bridges a significant market gap, for large corporations and small medium enterprises alike,” said Helene Li, CEO and Co-Founder of GoImpact.
Hashtag: #ZurichResilienceSolutions

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

Zurich Resilience Solutions

, the risk advisory business of Zurich Insurance Group, leverages 150 years of industry experience and 75 years of risk engineering expertise to address the risk management needs of both existing and new customers. The unit offers specialized insights, tools, and solutions to help businesses tackle traditional and evolving risks, such as climate change and cybersecurity.

As a global entity, Zurich Resilience Solutions has over 950 risk experts stationed in 40 countries, bringing local expertise and industry specializations to clients worldwide. Its capabilities and solutions are available to any organization seeking a proactive approach to risk management and long-term resilience.

GoImpact Capital Partners

Bridging the great divide between the talk and action, accelerating the Sustainable Development agenda from intention to implementation – GoImpact means impact made easy and actionable.

GoImpact has established significant market footprint on its mission to drive the sustainability agenda forward, bridging the knowledge gap between talk and action. We offer the best ESG learning experience in the market, providing case-based, experiential learning courses which are crafted and delivered by a group of world-class experts in sustainable finance and ESG.

Through its partners network across Asia Pacific which includes regulators, financial institutions and large corporations, delivering online-to-offline initiatives, GoImpact connects stakeholders across sectors and provide learning and advocacy opportunities to drive real change by example for everyone who is keen to understand more about the full spectrum of Sustainability and Resilience agenda.

Prince Foundation Amplifies Mine Action Message at Landmark Siem Reap Summit


SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 December 2024 – Prince Foundation, the philanthropic arm of Prince Holding Group, proudly supported the ASEAN Regional Mine Action Center (ARMAC) during the recently concluded Siem Reap-Angkor Summit on a Mine-Free World. The Foundation provided strategic communications expertise and exhibition design that highlighted ARMAC’s innovative victim assistance programs and technological initiatives, engaging over 700 delegates from more than 100 nations.

Prince Foundation supports ARMAC during the Siem Reap-Angkor Mine-Free World Summit.
Prince Foundation supports ARMAC during the Siem Reap-Angkor Mine-Free World Summit.

As part of its contribution to the Fifth Review Conference, Prince Foundation designed ARMAC’s exhibition booth, which was widely praised as the “best in show” by attending delegates. The campaign also resulted in a notable boost to ARMAC’s social media presence, with over 150 new followers and increased engagement across its platforms over the course of the five-day summit, reflecting growing interest and support for its initiatives.

The immersive display effectively conveyed ARMAC’s mission through visually striking elements, compelling storytelling, and innovative presentations of key initiatives, including the groundbreaking SAFE (Saving All From EO) chatbot.

Prince Foundation also worked closely with ARMAC leadership to craft strategic messaging that spotlighted the organization’s victim assistance programs, particularly the ASEAN Regional Victim Assistance Network (VAN), which provides comprehensive care for survivors of explosive ordnance and their families.

“Our role was to ensure ARMAC’s vital work received the attention it deserves,” said Gabriel Tan, Chief Communications Officer of Prince Holding Group and Head of Prince Foundation. “Through strategic communications and innovative exhibition design, we have helped amplify ARMAC’s message of hope and action to a global audience.”

Creating Impact Through Strategic Communications

The Foundation’s communications strategy highlighted ARMAC’s technological innovations, including the SAFE chatbot, an artificial intelligence-powered platform that delivers critical safety information to at-risk communities through accessible messaging systems.

“Prince Foundation’s strategic communications expertise has been instrumental in helping us convey the urgency and importance of our mission,” said Rothna Buth, Executive Director of ARMAC. “Their innovative approach to exhibition design and messaging strategy enabled us to effectively showcase our work, particularly in victim assistance and technological solutions, to a global audience.”

“By crafting compelling narratives around ARMAC’s initiatives, we’re fostering broader understanding and support for mine action efforts,” Tan added. “Our goal was to make complex technical information accessible and engaging for all attendees through our exhibition design and communications strategy.”

Comprehensive Communications Support

Prince Foundation’s contributions to ARMAC’s success at the summit included:

  • Design and Execution: Development of ARMAC’s flagship exhibition booth, ensuring a captivating and interactive experience for delegates.
  • Strategic Messaging: Creation of key communications materials that effectively conveyed ARMAC’s mission and initiatives.
  • Multimedia Content: Production of dynamic content showcasing ARMAC’s programs, including the SAFE chatbot and the VAN network.

Through its partnership with ARMAC, Prince Foundation has played a key role in advancing mine action efforts by delivering effective communications support and promoting collaboration among key stakeholders. By amplifying ARMAC’s initiatives and raising awareness of critical programs, the Foundation is contributing to tangible progress toward the shared goal of a mine-free world. This collaboration reflects Prince Foundation’s ongoing commitment to building safer communities and driving meaningful change in Cambodia and across the ASEAN region.Hashtag: #PrinceFoundation #ARMAC #PrinceHoldingGroup

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

About Prince Foundation

Prince Foundation, founded in 2015, is one of Cambodia’s leading philanthropic foundations. A member of Prince Holding Group, which is one of the largest business groups in Cambodia, the Foundation aims to work with local communities to build thriving living and working environments that elevate people’s well-being and livelihoods, following the vision: “Together, Building a Better Future for Cambodia.”

Focusing on education and youth development, healthcare, and community engagement and sports, and healthcare initiatives, Prince Foundation works with partners to deliver sustainable programs that enhance opportunities for Cambodia’s youths, build resilience in communities, and contribute to sustainable infrastructure.

The Foundation’s flagship projects are the Chen Zhi Scholarship, offering full scholarships, stipends, internships, and work opportunities to 400 Cambodian university students over a period of seven years, and Prince Horology, where aspiring Cambodian watchmakers learn the art of Swiss-style watchmaking in a state-of-the-art facility. Prince Foundation has launched more than 250 philanthropic initiatives, benefiting over 1.3 million people, with donations exceeding US$16 million

The Future of Casting Is Now: IAmCasting Debuts 2.0 Enhanced Features at Singapore Media Festival 2024


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 December 2024 – IAmCasting, Singapore’s leading casting platform, continues to revolutionise the media and entertainment landscape with the launch of a series of powerful new features at the Singapore Media Festival. Designed to reshape how talents and industry professionals connect, collaborate, and create, these updates mark a bold step forward in redefining and empowering the creative community like never before.

“Casting isn’t just about finding the right people – it’s about streamlining opportunities for creativity to thrive. With these new features, we’re enabling seamless collaboration and fostering stronger connections within the media and entertainment ecosystem,” said Irene Ang, Founder of IAmCasting.

“These features reflect our commitment to being more than just a casting platform – we are a strategic partner to the industry. By incorporating user feedback and leveraging technology, we’re making casting simpler, faster, and more inclusive,” said Jack Lim, CEO of IAmCasting.

Introducing Game-Changing Enhancements:

1. Streamlined Job Posting

  • Customizable Templates: Simplify your casting calls with ready-to-use templates tailored to specific roles.
  • Precise Job Segmentation: Effectively categorize roles to reach the perfect talent faster.

2. Seamlessly Simplified UX

  • Guided Onboarding: A step-by-step process designed for ease, ensuring a smooth experience for talents and agencies alike.
  • Quick Apply for Talents: Submit applications with just a few clicks for faster and more intuitive casting.

3. Empowering Teams with Multi-Level Account Access

  • Sub-Account Management: Add team members with customized permissions for secure and efficient collaboration.
  • Role-Based Access: Flexible controls ensure every user has the right tools for their role.

4. Game-Changing In-App Video Submissions

  • All-in-One Review Hub: Manage all submissions in one centralized platform, boosting efficiency.
  • Direct Audition Uploads: Simplify the audition process with seamless self-tape submissions.

5. Enhanced Casting Database Connectivity

  • Integrated Talent Database: A connected and searchable pool of talent at your fingertips.

A Platform for Boundless Collaboration with Equal Opportunities for All

These upgrades take IAmCasting to the next level, making it easier than ever to connect talents with productions across Singapore and beyond. Users love how it breaks down geographical barriers while offering unmatched convenience and efficiency.

Since its launch last December, IAmCasting has welcomed close to 3,000 talents from Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, The Philippines, Thailand, and the U.S. to its platform. With over 40 talent agencies and production companies on board and joining, the community continues to grow, with even more partners expected to come onboard.

IAmCasting isn’t just about linking talents to jobs – it’s about building a vibrant community where ideas come to life, experiences are exchanged, and mentorship brings people together. It’s a space where every creative talent has the chance to shine and succeed.

“Our mission at IAmCasting has always been to empower talents and industry professionals by fostering seamless connections and meaningful opportunities. With the launch of our new 2.0 features, we’re enriching collaboration, igniting creativity, and creating a casting experience that enables everyone in the creative community to flourish and thrive,” said Jack Lim, CEO of IAmCasting.

Transforming the Industry with IAmCasting

IAmCasting is revolutionizing talent discovery by eliminating geographical and time barriers, enabling seamless searches anytime, anywhere.

The platform bridges industry professionals – media owners, production houses, casting agencies, event organizers, and brand owners – with a diverse array of creative talents, including actors, models, hosts, content creators, singers, and athletes. With its unique and enhanced features, IAmCasting further streamlines the casting process, offering access to a broader talent pool and more job opportunities. This innovation reduces casting timelines from months to days, driving efficiency and opening new horizons for the media and entertainment industry.
Hashtag: #IAmCasting #Casting #Media&Entertainment #AsianTalents #IAmCastingRU #CastingReimagined #CastingCalls





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

About IAmCasting

IAmCasting (formerly known as TADAA! Casting) is an online platform that connects industry talents such as models, actors, celebrities, singers, content creators, sports stars and performers with clients and opportunities across the globe without being limited by physical, geographical and time restrictions. IAmCasting aims to create a vibrant community where talents can grow and thrive through the exchange of experiences on an international stage.

Thailand’s Tom Yum Kung Added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List

Thailand’s Tom Yum Kung Added to UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage List
Tom Yum Kung (Photo credit: Thailand Blog)

UNESCO has officially added Thailand’s famous prawn soup, Tom Yum Kung, to its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

Pudong Shipping Week 2024 Held in Shanghai

SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 December 2024 – On December 3, 2024, the opening ceremony of the Pudong Shipping Week 2024(PDSW) was held in Shanghai.

Pudong New Area will promote the development of high-end shipping services to create a dynamic shipping industry ecosystem in Shanghai’s free trade zone.

The six-day PDSW has arranged several industry exchange events, including a conference hosted by the Shanghai government and 56 activities planned by global organizations, companies, industry associations, and scientific research bodies.

Brand activities, including shipping week and maritime exhibitions, have become key platforms for leading development and empowering industries in major international shipping hub cities. PDSW will work with the partners of both domestic and international shipping brands to set up a cooperative system and form an ecosystem and social circle for Chinese and foreign brand activities.

The partners include China Maritime, Greece Posidonia, Nor-Shipping, London International Shipping Week, and Hong Kong Maritime Week.

In addition to the high-end shipping services and green smart shipping activities that were held during the first PDSW, this year’s event also added new themes such as Greek National Day, Zhoushan Port Day, Eastern Hub, low-altitude economy, logistics supply chain, blockchain application, shipping model, logistics robots, and others.

Experts in shipping, logistics, and shipbuilding, along with industry leaders and representatives from domestic and foreign ports and professional organizations, will present the latest insights and trends to participants during these themed activities.
Hashtag: #PudongShippingWeek2024

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

Laos to Decentralize Medicine Procurement to Provinces Starting in 2025

Photo: World Health Organization

A shortage of medicine in Laos’ state hospitals has forced patients to buy medications from outside sources. This issue was raised during the 8th ordinary session of the National Assembly on 26 November, where members discussed solutions to the problem.

Bounfeng Phoummalaysith, Minister of Public Health, acknowledged the challenge and explained that the Ministry is working to address the shortage. 

Starting in 2025, all provinces and five central hospitals will take responsibility for purchasing their own medications. Currently, the Ministry of Public Health manages procurement, but delays in the bidding process have slowed the distribution of medicine to hospitals across the country.

To address this, the Ministry has proposed shifting procurement responsibilities to the provincial level, a model successfully tested in Oudomxay Province. The Ministry has already implemented strict regulations to oversee the process. A key priority is to establish honest provincial procurement committees, ensuring that medicine prices remain reasonable and in line with established plans. Dishonest practices could negatively impact the health insurance fund.

The Minister of Public Health also addressed concerns regarding the treatment of social security members when hospitals lack medicine, forcing patients to purchase from outside sources. In the past, some patients avoided seeking reimbursements because of the time required, leading to complaints at the hospital.

To streamline the process, the Ministry issued a notification on 28 June stating, “If social security members buy medicine outside, they must submit the bill to the relevant hospital department for reimbursement on the same day, based on the price set by the hospital. This is because the hospital has daily cash flow and no longer requires long waiting periods. Price increases are strictly prohibited, as the hospital will only reimburse the price set by the hospital and will do so on the same day.”

Shopee Singapore and Children’s Cancer Foundation Announce Partnership to Support The Hope Train x ARTrepreneur 2024 Initiative


SINGAPORE Media OutReach Newswire – 4 December 2024 – Shopee, the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia and Taiwan, and the Children’s Cancer Foundation (CCF) are excited to announce a new collaboration to support The Hope Train x ARTrepreneur 2024, — a unique art exhibition and auction that aims to empower youth survivors who grapple with employment challenges due to their health struggles by providing them with a platform to showcase their creativity and resilience.

Shopee Kiap Kiap
Shopee Kiap Kiap

Shopee’s Contributions to The Hope Train x ARTrepreneur 2024 Initiative

Shopee is pledging significant support to the The Hope Train x ARTrepreneur 2024 initiative, with a series of activities designed to engage the public, raise awareness, and for Shopee to make donations to CCF:

  • S$10,000 Donation Through Shopee Kiap Kiap Game: Shopee is targeting to raise S$10,000 through its popular Shopee Kiap Kiap game, where every 5 plays contribute S$0.01 to the cause. The accumulated amount will be directed to CCF’s programs supporting youth cancer survivors.
  • Storytelling and Awareness on Shopee’s Website: Shopee will feature the stories of the youth survivors and their artwork on its website, helping to raise awareness about childhood cancer and the strength and resilience of these young individuals.

“We are deeply honored to collaborate with the Children’s Cancer Foundation on this meaningful initiative,” said Chua Kel Jin, Director of Shopee Singapore. “At Shopee, we believe in the power of community, creativity, and giving back. Through Shopee Kiap Kiap and this partnership, we hope to raise awareness and provide these young survivors with a platform to shine.”

Empowering Young Survivors Through Art

The Hope Train x ARTrepreneur 2024 Initiative shines a spotlight on the extraordinary creativity of youth cancer survivors, offering them a platform to express themselves through art.

Through this programme, these resilient young individuals gain access to customised art skills training that not only hone their craft but also opens doors to future career opportunities. By empowering them with the tools to develop their talents, the initiative helps foster a sense of purpose, self-confidence, and hope.

Launch and Additional Information

The Hope Train x ARTrepreneur 2024 initiative will kick off on 3 December and run until 12 December 2024. To learn more about the initiative or to participate in the Shopee Kiap Kiap game, visit https://shopee.sg/m/1212kiap-ccf.

Hashtag: #shopee #shopeegivesback #ARTrepreneur2024 #shopeekiapkiap #CCF #CSR

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

About Shopee

Shopee is the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia & Taiwan. Shopee promotes an inclusive and sustainable digital ecosystem by enabling businesses to digitalise and grow their online presence, helping more people access and benefit from digital services, and uplifting local communities.

Shopee offers an easy, secure, and engaging experience that is enjoyed by millions of people daily. Shopee is also a key contributor to the region’s digital economy with a firm commitment to helping homegrown brands and entrepreneurs succeed in e-commerce.

Shopee is part of Sea Limited (NYSE: SE), a leading global consumer internet company. Sea’s mission is to better the lives of consumers and small businesses with technology through its three core businesses: Shopee, Garena and SeaMoney.

About Children’s Cancer Foundation

Founded in 1992, the Children’s Cancer Foundation (CCF) is a Social Service Agency dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for children with cancer and their families. With a mission to improve emotional, social, and medical well-being, CCF is committed to becoming a leading provider of resources and psychosocial services for those impacted by childhood cancer.

CCF’s mission is to improve the quality of life of children with cancer and their families by enhancing their emotional, social, and medical well-being. CCF’s vision is to become a leading provider of resources and psychosocial services to children and families impacted by childhood cancer.