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Savannakhet Sees Tourism Boom, Economic Growth in 2024

Savannakhet Sees Tourism Boom, Economic Growth in 2024
That Ing Hang in Savannakhet Province (photo credit: Laos Tour)

Savannakhet Province has witnessed growth in tourism and economic development in 2024. 

Coda Bridge and StraitsX Collaborate on Blockchain-Powered Charity Initiative to Support Singapore’s Disadvantaged Communities


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 November 2024 – Coda Bridge, a pioneering Hong Kong-based blockchain platform provider known for its charity project that leverages blockchain technology to ensure accurate tracking of charitable donations, is pleased to announce its expansion into Singapore in collaboration with StraitsX. The upcoming collaboration aims to leverage blockchain technology and smart contract programming to issue Purpose Bound Money (PBM) in the form of meal vouchers to eligible migrant workers and other underserved communities to dine at Dignity Kitchen Singapore.

Coda Bridge’s platform has already seen significant success in Hong Kong, having partnered with Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) Hong Kong, and Dignity Kitchen (Hong Kong), a social enterprise that employs physically challenged and disadvantaged people. The Hong Kong project, which was rolled out in May 2024, saw the distribution of HK$500 electronic meal vouchers to beneficiary families of the local chapter of RMHC, redeemable at Dignity Kitchen Hong Kong. The upcoming pilot in Singapore will see Coda Bridge utilise StraitsX’s platform solutions and its Singapore dollar pegged stablecoin, XSGD to power backend acceptance flows of the PBM digital meal vouchers, guaranteeing that charity donations from Ray of Hope reach the intended beneficiaries and are spent specifically for dining at Dignity Kitchen Singapore. Beneficiaries can then use their mobile phone to scan a merchant-presented QR code at Dignity Kitchen and seamlessly pay using their vouchers. At the end of the project, Dignity Kitchen can redeem the digital vouchers collected from beneficiaries and receive cash through a reconciliation process with Ray of Hope.

PBM is a protocol that specifies the conditions upon which an underlying digital currency (such as stablecoins) can be used, which has the capability for money to be directed towards a specific purpose, and the potential to promote increased donation by providing unprecedented transparency and integrity in the donation process.

Using the StraitsX issued stablecoin that is compliant with the forthcoming Singapore regulatory framework, Coda Bridge highlights their commitment to revolutionise the global charity landscape through digital innovation while ensuring continual compliance with evolving regulatory frameworks. In addition, the versatility of StraitsX-issued stablecoin extends beyond commercial use cases such as the recent go-live of a cross-border solution allowing Alipay+ payment partner apps to pay at GrabPay merchants in Singapore. By tapping on the capabilities of programmable money, StraitsX and Coda Bridge envision a future characterized by groundbreaking efficiency in funds transfer across multiple real-world use cases.

This pilot project will run from November 2024 to February 2025. If successful, this innovation in charity donations will expand the use cases of PBM and XSGD with the aim of including more charities and social enterprises within Singapore.

Hashtag: #CodaBridge #StraitsX

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

About Coda Bridge

, headquartered in Hong Kong and backed by leading venture capitalists, merges the expertise of seasoned financial and IT professionals. Our company harnesses the power of FinTech to innovate and drive efficiency in digital transactions through our blockchain based Purpose Bound Money platform, tailored for specific financial needs.

French Research Institute Discusses Ecosystem Sustainability with Lao, French Partners in Luang Prabang

Open New research and training center for Southeast Asian professionals and students specialized in food safety issues and water-related health risks (Photo Credit: IRD DaLam)

On 18 to 19 November, the French National Research Institute for Sustainable Development (IRD) held a meeting in Luang Prabang, Laos, with local and French partners to discuss ecosystem sustainability and the One Health approach. The event featured discussions on key issues such as land use, water resources, and biodiversity, with participants including scientists, officials, and donors.

Hoa Sen Home emerges as Vietnam’s leading building materials & furniture supermarket chain


HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 November 2024 – Hoa Sen Home has established itself as a leader in Vietnam’s rapidly growing building materials market. As the official distributor of renowned building materials and furniture brands locally and internationally, it offers a wide range of high-quality products, all backed by exceptional customer service.

Hoa Sen Home is the official distributor of many renowned building materials and furniture brands in Vietnam and internationally.
Hoa Sen Home is the official distributor of many renowned building materials and furniture brands in Vietnam and internationally.


Hoa Sen Home operates Vietnam’s most significant building materials and furniture supermarket chain, with 115 supermarkets and over 300 stores nationwide. The company provides thousands of products, from basic building materials to finishing materials, including steel sheets, steel pipes, plastic pipes, construction steel, tiles, various types of paints, sanitary wares, hand tools, power tools and household electrical appliances, etc. This extensive product range attracts customers and presents numerous opportunities for suppliers to expand their businesses.

Mr. Stone, Export Manager of ARROW, a leading Chinese sanitary ware company, was impressed after visiting Hoa Sen Home’s supermarkets and stores in Vietnam. “I am amazed by the extremely diverse range of products Hoa Sen Home offers. In stores like these, consumers can find everything they need for their homes. Hoa Sen Group has done a remarkable job in this regard,” said Mr. Stone.

Mr. Cai Xin Yan, General Manager of MONGA, a leading sanitary ware manufacturer in Guangdong Province, China, highly values Hoa Sen Home. “Thanks to its comprehensive network of supermarkets, services, and suppliers, we can collaborate to deliver products efficiently and quickly. We also see that Hoa Sen Home is heading in the right direction, particularly by embracing digital transformation and e-commerce trends to enhance the customer experience,” said Mr. Cai Xin Yan.

Meanwhile, Mr. Sunny, General Manager of EAOH, a leading stainless steel sink manufacturer in Guangdong Province, China, and a strategic partner of major global building materials supermarkets, including The Home Depot (USA), shared: “Hoa Sen Home has been very professional in many areas, from product exchanges and returns to delivery processes and payments. We look forward to deepening our cooperation with Hoa Sen Home.”

Hoa Sen Home, an affiliate of Hoa Sen Group – one of the top 10 largest private enterprises in Vietnam, is the country’s largest and only building materials and furniture supermarket chain. With its expansive distribution network, Hoa Sen Home allows partners to connect with millions of potential customers.

Partnering with Hoa Sen Home is a business opportunity and a chance to strengthen brands in Vietnam’s dynamic market. The partnership promises long-term benefits, fostering a sustainable ecosystem that empowers businesses to thrive in an increasingly competitive environment.

For further information, please contact:

Hoa Sen Home Representative Office in China

Address: Room 911-912, Building 5, No. 7, Guoji Center, Huadu District, Guangzhou City, Guangdong, China
Email: china.office@hoasengroup.vn
Hotline: +86 153 6088 8633

Hashtag: #HoaSenHome #HoaSenGroup

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

Acclaim Insurance Brokers Celebrates 40th Anniversary with Enterprise 50 Award


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 November 2024 – Acclaim Insurance Brokers, Singapore’s leading risk consulting and insurance broker, celebrates its 40th anniversary by receiving the prestigious Enterprise 50 Award for the second time, first awarded in 2021. Acclaim remains the only risk consulting and insurance broker in this distinguished ranking.

Acclaim

The accolade underscores Acclaim’s four decades of contributions to Singapore’s business landscape as a trusted provider of corporate risk management and insurance solutions. “This award is a testament to our team’s dedication,” said Founder and Executive Chairman Anthony Lim. CEO and Managing Director Tony Lim added, “It motivates us to continue empowering businesses and raising the bar.”

The Enterprise 50 Award, established in 1995, recognises the nation’s top 50 privately-held companies driving economic growth locally and globally. Organised by The Business Times and KPMG, it is supported by Enterprise Singapore, the Singapore Business Federation, and the Singapore Exchange.

Global Reach, Tailored Solutions
With a network spanning 150 countries and over 500 offices, Acclaim provides tailored insurance solutions to multinational corporations. The firm’s Specialty Practices deliver in-depth risk assessments and customised strategies across diverse insurance classes.

A Commitment to Innovation and Community
Guided by core values of courage, creativity, commitment, and collaboration, Acclaim combines risk insight with innovation to help businesses maximise opportunities. Its “Purpose Beyond Profit” ethos is evident in initiatives like the Acclaim Education Fund, supporting tertiary students beyond traditional financial aid.

As Acclaim looks to the future, it continues investing in talent development and delivering impactful risk solutions to meet the evolving needs of businesses worldwide.
Hashtag: #insurancebroker #marineinsurancesingapore #cybersecurityinsurancesingapore

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

About Acclaim Insurance Brokers

Founded in 1983, Acclaim Insurance Brokers is one of Singapore’s largest independent transnational risk consultant and insurance broker. Serving over 2,000 clients across all industries including major infrastructure projects and multinational clients with operations in more than 30 countries. about their comprehensive solutions.

Mines Advisory Group marks 30 years in Laos

One of MAG’s all female demining teams heads back to camp. ©MAG/Simon Cote
One of MAG’s all female demining teams heads back to camp. ©MAG/Simon Cote

This month, the Mines Advisory Group (MAG)-a humanitarian, development, and peacebuilding organisation–is marking its 30th anniversary of operations in Laos.  

Since 1994, MAG has worked with communities and authorities across Khammuan and Xieng Khuang provinces to find, remove, and destroy hundreds of thousands of bombs leftover from the war. 

Laos is the most heavily bombed country in the world per capita. From 1964 to 1973, more than two million tons of explosive ordnance were dropped on the country. 

The scale of the bombing is the equivalent of a planeload of bombs being dropped every eight minutes, 24 hours a day, for nine years. This included 270 million cluster submunitions, of which an estimated 30 percent failed to detonate on impact, meaning they remain alive, contaminating the land, for decades.  

MAG currently employs over 1,200 staff in Laos, many of whom are from communities heavily impacted by the conflict and the subsequent contamination. 

Over the last 30 years, MAG’s impact has been transformative, benefitting nearly 1.2 million people by: Clearing over 136 square kilometres of land.

Responding to over 37,000 callouts from people reporting dangerous items.

Finding and destroying over 340,000 items of unexploded ordnance.

Delivering over 4,500 risk education sessions with guidance on how to recognise, avoid, and report threats, reaching more than 153,000 people living in contaminated areas.

 

One of MAG Laos’s first clearance teams formed in 1994 in collaboration with the Mennonite Central Committee and the Lao government. ©MAG
One of MAG Laos’s first clearance teams formed in 1994 in collaboration with the Mennonite Central Committee and the Lao government. ©MAG

“As we celebrate 30 years of MAG’s work in Laos, we are honouring the remarkable dedication of our staff members who have worked hand-in-hand with communities to ensure land can be returned safely to them. Their hard work and commitment to making their communities safer have transformed countless lives. This anniversary is a testament to their efforts and the resilience of the people we serve,” said MAG Laos Country Director, Eli Mechanic.

With approximately 2,000 square kilometres of confirmed hazardous areas still requiring clearance, it is paramount that support for unexploded ordnance (UXO) survey and clearance in Laos continues and people can live and use their land without fear of deadly accidents. 

“For over 30 years, the United States has provided more than US$400 million towards UXO clearance efforts and support for victims. We are currently supporting over 200 clearance teams, which have cleared more land this year than in any previous year,” said United States Ambassador to Laos, Heather Variava.

“We are making progress, but we know we need to do more, and we are committed to working with partners like MAG to ensure Laos meets its goal of removing UXO as a barrier to national development.” 

The majority of land cleared by MAG of cluster munitions and other UXO is agricultural land. 

Humanitarian mine action can and does have an incredible impact on agriculture, development initiatives and food security, with reverberating positive effects on communities previously restricted by the presence of ordnance.

“The UK Government is one of the largest bilateral donors supporting UXO clearance work in Laos,” said United Kingdom’s Ambassador to Laos, Mel Barlow. “We are proud to support MAG and to celebrate their 30-year commitment to life-saving work in Laos. I was privileged to visit their work in Xieng Khuang and learn how this is reducing injuries and returning land to communities, directly contributing to the development of Laos.”

As MAG commemorates this significant milestone, the organisation remains steadfast in its commitment to working with the Lao government, development partners, and conflict-affected communities until the country is free from the threat of unexploded ordnance. 

This commitment, along with robust international support and community engagement, is essential in paving the way for a safer and more prosperous future for Laos.

MAG clearance team members use a large-loop detector to search for unexploded bombs on farmland in Xieng Khouang province. ©MAG/Bart Verweij
MAG clearance team members use a large-loop detector to search for unexploded bombs on farmland in Xieng Khouang province. ©MAG/Bart Verweij

Mengniu Driving Development of Innovative HMO Nutritional Ingredients


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 November 2024 – In August 2024, Synaura Biotechnology (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. (“Synaura”), a subsidiary of China Mengniu Dairy Company Limited (“Mengniu” or the “Company”), received GRAS certification from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for its 2′-FL (2′-Fucosyllactose), making it the first and only human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) company from China to receive approval.

HMOs are the third largest solid component in human breast milk, following fat and lactose, and contribute significantly to infant health by enhancing gut health, supporting the immune system, and aiding cognitive development. Despite their immense potential when used in nutritional products, little progress has been made in the research and development and industrialization of HMO raw materials by Chinese companies. The most recent technological breakthroughs were all achieved by multinational companies.

Recent years have witnessed Mengniu emerge as a pioneer in developing nutritional ingredients, particularly through groundbreaking advancements in HMO technology. As one of leading biosynthesis companies in China and the first domestic company engaged in HMO research and development, Synaura’s flagship HMOs have garnered recognition from several regulatory bodies both domestically and internationally. In June 2023, Synaura became the first Chinese company to obtain Self-Affirmed GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) certification in the U.S. In October 2023, Synaura became the only domestic HMO supplier to receive approval from China’s National Health Commission (NHC) for its 2′-FL (2′-Fucosyllactose). Recognition from multiple regulatory bodies underscores the product’s safety, efficacy, and purity at an international level while unlocking promising market opportunities for broader applications.

As a leading dairy company in China, Mengniu is committed to enhancing and transforming its product offerings from offering basic nutrition to promoting enhanced health benefits. While driving the research and development of HMOs, Mengniu has also accelerated their use in various products, including its Enzhi (恩至) series infant formula and Future Star liquid milk for children, while at the same time exploring additional opportunities domestically. In May 2024, Synaura successfully secured nearly RMB100 million in pre-A round financing led by CICC Qide Fund (中金启德基金), under CICC Capital, and Moutai Fund (茅台基金), along with investments from early shareholder Beihai Mengniu Venture Capital (北海蒙牛创投). This further solidifies Synaura’s position as a leader in synthetic biology and innovative nutrition and healthcare technologies.

Advancements in nutritional ingredients such as HMOs demonstrate Mengniu’s dedication to the health and nutrition sector. Forming the “two wings” in Mengniu’s new “one core, two wings” operational strategy, the development of innovative health and nutritional ingredients, together with its continued expansion overseas, will drive the sustainable development of Mengniu. This will be supported by the enhanced efficiency and improved profitability of Mengniu’s “core” business including branded liquid dairy milk, milk formula, ice cream, and cheese business units.

Going forward, Mengniu will continue to drive the high-quality development of dairy industry and provide healthy and nutritious products to consumers across the world.

Hashtag: #Mengniu

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

About China Mengniu Dairy Company Limited

China Mengniu Dairy Company Limited and its subsidiaries mainly manufacture and distribute quality dairy products in China. It is one of the leading dairy product manufacturers in China, with MENGNIU as its core brand. Mengniu offers diversified products including liquid milk products, ice cream, milk formula and cheese. In March 2014, Mengniu became a Hang Seng Index constituent, making it the first blue-chip Chinese dairy product manufacturer. In 2023, Mengniu’s MSCI ESG rating was elevated to AA. Mengniu is a constituent of the Hang Seng Corporate Sustainability Index, Hang Seng (Mainland and Hong Kong) Corporate Sustainability Index, Hang Seng Corporate Sustainability Benchmark Index and HSI ESG Enhanced Select Index.

For more information, please visit .

Hong Kong sees 13% decline in job change rate as employees prioritise job security

Top white-collar talent remains elusive despite fewer vacancies and higher application rates

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 November 2024 – Hong Kong’s job market has experienced significant challenges over the past year, with layoffs and economic uncertainties impacting the landscape. According to Robert Walters, the world’s most trusted talent solutions firm, there has been a notable decline in white-collar job vacancies in Hong Kong in 2024, and the number of job applications received has surged by 122%, indicating a growing desire among professionals to seek new opportunities.

The job market has become more employer-driven, with employers holding more leverage due to limited opportunities. The survey also reveals that only 55% of employers forecast a pay rise to employees in 2025, down 9% compared to the result in November 2023. Among these employers, 77% of them are likely to give 1-5% salary increase to their employees in the coming year.
Despite this, Robert Walters Hong Kong has reported positive signs of recovery in the coming year. Approximately 15% of surveyed employers plan to increase their permanent headcount in 2025, while 18% aim to expand their contract workforce. These findings are part of the Robert Walters Global Salary Survey 2025, an authoritative analysis and benchmark of salary trends.
Top skilled professionals prioritising job security

Considering the global recession and local economic challenges, professionals are increasingly prioritising job security, reflecting a cautious approach to career moves. The survey reveals that 25% of professionals do not plan to change jobs in 2025—a 13% increase from 2024. This cautiousness is further underscored by the fact that 46% of professionals express a lack of confidence in job opportunities within their field, marking a 9% rise from the previous year.

John Mullally, Managing Director of Robert Walters Hong Kong, commented, “It is taking a much longer time to fill roles, and many hiring managers assume there is an abundance of talent available, but the reality is quite the opposite. Many stronger candidates are risk-averse and are prioritising job stability over exploring new opportunities.”

Notably, while 62% of job seekers are hoping for a salary increment of 10% or more to make a move, only 33% of employers are prepared to meet these expectations. This scenario presents a more challenging environment to find the right talent in a larger candidate pool. Tight budgets have intensified the difficulty of securing top candidates, who are now demanding higher risk premiums to consider new opportunities.

The rise of middle level managers

In a cost-conscious market, there is a notable preference for middle-level hires, reflecting a strategic approach to talent acquisition. According to the survey, 31% of employers report that they see the most acute talent shortage at the senior associate level, followed by the manager level (25%), and senior managers and C-suite roles (25%).
This trend may reflect businesses’ tendency to streamline operations during economic downturns, leading to a flatter organisational structure where middle-level managers play a crucial role. Companies emphasise internal promotions, allowing those familiar with the company’s culture and processes to step into new roles with minimal disruption.
To address the experience gap and skill shortage created by the rise of middle-level managers as replacements for senior roles, companies must invest in continuous training and development to equip these managers with the necessary skills. According to the survey, nearly 40% of employers are focusing on improving their L&D programs to upskill existing employees by 2025, ensuring their workforce remains adaptable to address the challenges of the market.
AI in workplace become more common

The use of AI in the workplace is on the rise, with 75% of professionals reporting they are utilising AI models, such as ChatGPT, in their work—a jump from 45% in November 2023. The most common applications include copywriting, content creation, and editing (41%), data analysis (24%), and research and information gathering (37%).
Notably, over half of the professionals (53%) expressed that they are not concerned about the emergence of AI models replacing routine roles. This reflects a growing confidence in the ability of AI as a tool to enhance productivity rather than replacing jobs in the evolving workplace landscape.
Employers seek flexible and cost-effective solutions to hire talent

Employers in Hong Kong are turning to flexible and cost-effective solutions to meet their talent acquisition needs. The demand for contract workers, particularly in the technology sector for short-term projects, is on the rise. According to Robert Walters Hong Kong, 18% of surveyed employers plan to expand their contract workforce in 2025. Meanwhile, many employers are using managed services model to augment their workforce, enhancing flexibility and efficiency in their operations.

In addition, Hong Kong’s strategic initiatives to attract overseas talent are gaining traction. Businesses are increasingly seeking talent, particularly technical roles, from Mainland China. According to Robert Walters Hong Kong, 53% of Mainland China professionals looking to work in Hong Kong are open to being employed as contract workers. This indicates that the government’s talent initiatives are effectively expanding the talent pool available to employers.
Cautious optimism in 2025

Despite the challenges faced over the past few years, there is cautious optimism about increased hiring numbers in the first half of next year. John Mullally commented, “After two and a half years of a slowdown, especially in the financial services sector, we might be turning a corner. The Hang Seng Index is up 15% for the year, and there has been an increase in IPO activity over the last few months.”

According to the survey, 15% of employers plan to increase their permanent headcount in 2025, while 18% aim to expand their contract workforce. Half of the employers say their hiring plan will remain unchanged.

Hong Kong top in-demand professions for 2025:

  • Accounting & Finance: FP&A/Commercial Finance/Business Controlling Manager, Finance Manager (Full Set), Treasury Analyst
  • Construction, Property & Engineering: Leasing (All Levels), Project Manager (Technical) & Sustainability/Environment Role (Technical & Corporate Level)
  • Financial Services: Relationship Managers, Operations, Investor Relations/Client Servicing
  • Human Resources: HR Business Partners, C&B Managers, HRIS
  • Legal & Compliance: Regulatory Compliance Manager, Compliance Officer (Hedge Fund), Legal Counsel (Funds)
  • Sales & Marketing: Head of Sales/Business Development, Marketing Manager (Regional/China Marketing), Account Manager
  • Supply Chain, Procurement & Logistics: Business Development Manager (3PL), Factory Operation (Food & Non-Food), Director/Manager, Account Management (Sourcing & Merchandising), Director / Manager
  • Technology & Transformation: Data Engineers, Cyber Security Specialist & Technical Lead (Back-end)

Hashtag: #SalarySurvey2025 #RobertWaltersHongKong #HongKongHiringMarket #HiringTrends #JobMarket


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

Robert Walters Hong Kong

About
Robert Walters is the world’s most trusted talent solutions business. Across the globe, we deliver recruitment, recruitment process outsourcing and advisory services for businesses of all shapes and sizes, opening doors for people with diverse skills, ambitions, and backgrounds. We help organisations find the skills and solutions to reach their goals and assist talented professionals to power their unique potential.

The Hong Kong office specialises in placing high-calibre professionals on a permanent or contract basis in the following specialities: accounting & finance, construction, property & engineering, financial services, HR & business support, legal & compliance, sales & marketing, supply chain, logistics & procurement, and tech & transformation.

About the Robert Walters Digital Salary Survey –

Robert Walters Hong Kong surveyed up to 400 professionals and organisations in Hong Kong in September 2024 to gather feedback and concerns from both employers and employees on existing work practices, providing an overview of the current job market, in-demand skill sets and salary expectations for the year ahead. Salary ranges shown in the Robert Walters Salary Survey are based on an analysis of placements made across our network of offices and specialist disciplines during 2024.

Around the globe, employers and professionals alike have been relying on the Robert Walters Salary Survey to help them make critical decisions for their businesses and careers. The digital edition of the Salary Survey is a comprehensive guide to salaries for thousands of roles in 31 locations, and it is packed with helpful tools and resources for hiring managers and job seekers alike, including the latest trends and analysis for different industries, as well as video updates on market conditions from industry experts.

For details of the Robert Walters Salary Survey 2025, please contact us or visit: