Mobile Industry Deploys Open Network APIs and Prepares for New Era of Digital Services and Mobile Apps

BARCELONA, Feb 27, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – The GSMA today announces a new industry-wide initiative called GSMA Open Gateway, a framework of universal network Application Programmable Interfaces (APIs), designed to provide universal access to operator networks for developers. Launched with the support of 21 mobile network operators, the move represents a paradigm shift in the way the telecoms industry designs and delivers services in an API economy world.

GSMA Open Gateway has already started to harmonise the industry around open APIs, with many demonstrations available to see at MWC Barcelona 2023. These include an immersive concert experience from Axiata, using APIs for Device Location, Carrier Billing and Authentication; a live 'jam session' from the 5G Future Forum with musicians around the world, supported by the Edge Site Selection API; and an immersive gaming, and high definition video showcase, from Orange, Telefonica, Vodafone and Ericsson/Vonage based on the Quality on Demand (QoD) API.

GSMA Open Gateway APIs are defined, developed and published in CAMARA, the open source project for developers to access enhanced network capabilities, driven by the Linux Foundation in collaboration with the GSMA. Working in CAMARA, APIs between telcos and developers can be delivered quickly, using developer-friendly tools and software code.

Jose Maria Alvarez-Pallete Lopez, GSMA Board Chairman and Chairman & CEO of Telefonica, said: "GSMA Open Gateway will enable single points of access to ultra-broadband networks and provide a catalyst for immersive technologies and Web3 – giving them the ability to fulfill their potential and reach critical mass. Telcos have come a long way in developing a global platform to connect everyone and everything. And now, by federating open network APIs and applying the roaming concept of interoperability, mobile operators and cloud services will be truly integrated to enable a new world of opportunity. Collaboration amongst telecom operators and cloud providers is crucial in this new digital ecosystem."

"By applying the concept of interconnection for operators to the API economy developers can utilise technology once, for services such as identity, cybersecurity or billing, but with the potential to be integrated with every operator worldwide. This is a profound change in the way we design and deliver services," said Mats Granryd, Director General of GSMA. "In 1987, representatives from 13 countries worked together to harmonise mobile voice services and enable roaming, and I believe that 35 years on, GSMA Open Gateway has the potential to deliver a similar impact for digital services."

GSMA Open Gateway will help developers and cloud providers enhance and deploy services more quickly via single points of access to operator networks. This is achieved via common, northbound service APIs that simply expose mobile operators' network capabilities within a consistent, interoperable and federated framework.

Ishwar Parulkar, Chief Technologist for the Telco Industry at Amazon Web Services (AWS), said: "GSMA Open Gateway is a significant step in enriching the cloud developer experience. Developers using AWS's more than 200 services will also be able to leverage APIs from telco operators. This allows the developer community to create new applications, and for telcos to open up new models of consumption and monetisation for their networks. We believe this will help accelerate innovation in the telecom industry."

Erik Ekudden, CTO & SVP, Ericsson, said: "Together with Vonage, we enable operators to take their advanced mobile network capabilities to developers via easy-to-use APIs. The QoD API that we are demonstrating at MWC Barcelona 2023 – live on the networks of Orange, Telefonica and Vodafone – shows how GSMA Open Gateway APIs are highly scalable across operators and with different app developers. This places 5G as an innovation platform at the heart of digital transformation and we are excited to be part of the GSMA Open Gateway initiative."

"At Microsoft, we are focused on extending a distributed computing fabric from the cloud to the edge, together with our operator partners," said Satya Nadella, Chairman and CEO, Microsoft. "We look forward to bringing the GSMA Open Gateway initiative to Microsoft Azure, to empower developers and help operators monetise the value of their 5G investments."

The GSMA Open Gateway initiative launches with eight universal network APIs, including SIM Swap, QoD, Device Status (Connected or Roaming Status), Number Verify, Edge Site Selection and Routing, Number Verification (SMS 2FA), Carrier Billing – Check Out and Device Location (Verify Location). The initiative plans to launch further APIs throughout 2023.

Examples of services supported by the introduction of GSMA Open Gateway include Edge Site Selection and Routing to support autonomous vehicles and Verify Location for fleet management and incident reporting; SIM Swap to combat financial crime and QoD for drones, robotics, eXtended Reality (XR) and immersive online gaming.

The GSMA Open Gateway demonstrations available to see at MWC Barcelona 2023 include:

– At the GSMA Pavilion, Axiata is showcasing its first ever immersive music concert on the Axiata Digital Concert Platform, powered by Dialog and Axiata Digital Labs' Axonect, designed in association with GSMA Open Gateway APIs for Number Verification (SMS 2FA), Device Location and Carrier Billing.

– At MWC's startup showcase, 4YFN, Deutsche Telekom (DT) will announce details of its developer marketplaces and Early Adopter Programmes for CAMARA APIs in association with GSMA Open Gateway. In addition, DT will be demonstrating applications of APIs, including QoD, alongside Matsuko and Orange in Hall 3 on stand 3M31.

– The 5G Future Forum (5GFF) will take collaboration to the next level across three operator networks – Rogers, Verizon and Vodafone. Musicians from around the world will jam over 5G, using Mobile Edge Compute (MEC) and the GSMA Open Gateway's Edge Site Selection API. See the show on Wednesday, 1st March at 12pm in Theatre 1, Hall 6.

– At the GSMA Pavilion, KDDI, Telefonica, Mawari and Sturfee will showcase a revolution in online shopping with the 5G MEC powered XR Digital Twin Store. This allows shoppers in a physical store, and online shoppers in its Digital Twin, to share an immersive retail experience together. This project will explore opportunities based on the GSMA Open Gateway QoD API.

– On stand 4A60 in Hall 4, KT will be showing a demonstration of B2B use cases – built on the GSMA Open Gateway APIs for Edge Site Selection and Routing – with MEC. Titled '5G Connectivity & Cloud Federation' this demonstration enables enterprise customers to receive the best service experience anywhere in the world by discovering optimal edge resources.

– Orange, Telefonica, Vodafone, Vonage and Ericsson are showing how user experience in mobile cloud gaming – and interactive high definition video applications – can be significantly enhanced by leveraging advanced network functionality through global network APIs. Application developers from Blacknut, Zoom and Vonage utilised the GSMA Open Gateway QoD API to add innovative features and enhance the mobile experience.

– Singtel, AIS, Summit Tech and Bridge Alliance will be showing their live broadcast demonstration at the GSMA Pavilion, leveraging 5G and MEC to provide a hyper-personalised view in 8K resolution. Participants are able to interact in real-time within live events across different country networks.

– Demonstrations at Telefonica's booth will show GSMA Open Gateway API availability in Telefonica Kernel, in collaboration with Microsoft. Microsoft will also be announced as a partner in Telefonica's Early Adopter Programme for developers and experience creators, which also features AWS, Google and Vonage.

– In addition, at its booth, Microsoft will present a solution for developers to build network-aware applications through a unified interface across operator networks.

Signatories to the GSMA Open Gateway Memorandum of Understanding are America Movil, AT&T, Axiata, Bharti Airtel, China Mobile, Deutsche Telekom, e& Group, KDDI, KT, Liberty Global, MTN, Orange, Singtel, Swisscom, STC, Telefonica, Telenor, Telstra, TIM, Verizon and Vodafone.

Over the next 12 months the initiative will support engagement via Early Adopter Programmes for developers and it will promote GSMA Open Gateway APIs via significant developer channels, including Microsoft events such as Ignite and Build; and AWS' re:Invent.

GSMA: https://www.gsma.com/

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

London-based Downtown International enters JV with ONERHT to expand Asia-Pacific presence

SINGAPORE, Feb 27, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – London-headquartered multinational real estate agency Downtown International has entered into a joint venture (JV) partnership with Singapore-based RHT AlDigi Financial Holdings, a member of ONERHT, as part of its expansion into Asia.


Downtown International is an award winning multinational real estate agency offering an extensive range of brokerage services for residential and commercial properties in downtown areas of major cities across the globe. With over 1000 agents and 150,000 real estate investors on its books, it has become a market leader in its field since its founding in 2011.

The JV partnership adds significant value and synergies to ONERHT's ecosystem of multidisciplinary professional services, including members RHT Real Estate and SDAX. RHT Real Estate's Singapore portfolio for its clients will now be complemented with Downtown's portfolio of international properties.

The JV will look into tokenisation of real estate assets on SDAX. Supported by its strategic shareholders ESR, PSA and Straits Trading, SDAX is a Monetary Authority of Singapore licenced platform that serves institutional, accredited and retail investors, providing uniquely curated assets including tokenised real estate. Through the combined strengths of both partners in origination and distribution of real estate investments, the JV will be able to offer tokenised international real estate for clients.

Mr Martin Ashkuri, Group Chief Executive Officer of Downtown International, said, "This partnership represents a significant milestone as we expand our reach and capabilities in Asia with the addition of real estate tokenisation. Access to the ONERHT ecosystem of multidisciplinary firms will place Downtown International at the forefront of future real estate trends."

"With a presence now firmly established in Asia, Downtown International will look to other major centres in the region to further develop its distribution channels. Beyond its regional headquarters in Singapore, Downtown has identified 7 additional centres in an ambitious 3-year expansion plan initiated by our Senior Management team," he added.

The JV will capitalise on Asian Pacific investors' sustained appetite for European real estate as well as the region's relative optimism on growth.

Dr Han Bin, Managing Director of the JV, Downtown Realty Pte. Ltd., said, "We plan to leverage the emerging trend of cross- border capital flows and potential of tokenisation in the real estate market to create cutting edge investment solutions. We have been working closely with institutions and family offices across the region to realise initial deal flows. We believe in the potential of tokenisation to reach out to a larger pool of investors. Tokenisation will enhance the ability for diversification and risk management of portfolios and promote liquidity in the real estate sector."

About ONERHT

ONERHT is an integrated multidisciplinary platform of professional services. Since 2011, RHTLaw Asia's founding team aspired to develop a second engine of growth through ONERHT, an independent ecosystem of professional services, associated companies and networks, complementing RHTLaw's full service legal offerings. Please visit www.onerht.com.

About Downtown International

Downtown International is an award winning multinational real estate agency offering an extensive range of brokerage services for residential and commercial properties within downtown areas across the globe. Downtown International specialises in the sale and marketing of off-plan residential developments and represents leading residential property developers showcasing an extensive portfolio of properties to our clients. For details, please visit www.downtowninternational.com.

About SDAX

SDAX is a regulated investment and trading platform providing multi asset securities and fund units. It fractionalises and tokenises institutional-grade real assets for trading on SDAX's blockchain powered exchange. SDAX democratises access into the universe of securities – private funds, private equity, private credit across different industries – for the benefit of a wider investor base. For more details, please visit www.sdax.co

For media queries, please contact:
Elliot Siow / elliot.siow@rhtgoc.com / +65 8375 0417

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

HH Sheikh Juma Ahmed Juma Al Maktoum reiterates endorsement of World Blockchain Summit coming back to Dubai in March 2023

DUBAI, UAE, Feb 27, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – World Blockchain Summit (WBS), the world's longest running series of blockchain events is coming back to Dubai for its 24th edition on March 20-21 at Atlantis the Palm, under the endorsement of HH Sheikh Juma Ahmed Juma Al Maktoum, member of the ruling family of Dubai.
Use code "CACNN10" to avail 10% off on ticket at World Blockchain Summit (WBS), the world's longest running series of blockchain events, which is coming back to Dubai for its 24th edition on March 20-21.


The summit hosted with the support of Strategic Partner, Elite Partner Investments, is themed Fostering the future of Web3.0, and boasts one of the most stellar line-ups of industry heavyweights including:
– Sandeep Nailwal, Co-Founder, Polygon
– Sunny Lu, Co-Founder & CEO, Vechain
– Helen Hai, Executive VP, Binance and Head of Binance Charity
– Max Kordek, CEO & Co-Founder, Lisk
– Gracy Chen, Managing Director, Bitget
– Jean-Charles Gaudechon, CEO, One-Football Labs
– Alex Zinder, Global Head, Ledger Enterprises
– Dina Sam'an, Co-Founder & Managing Director, CoinMENA

Dubai and the surrounding MENA countries have firmly established themselves as some f the most crypto, blockchain and web3.0 friendly markets in the world and so is the perfect destination for projects and influencers from around the world to meet, network and support the continued growth of the ecosystem.

Furqan Rassul, CEO of Elite Partner Investment remarked, "As a hub for innovation and technology, Dubai has tremendous potential for the growth of the crypto and blockchain ecosystem. We are seeing a significant increase in interest and adoption of these technologies in the region, and I am optimistic about its future here. With the support of the government and the business community, Dubai is becoming a leader in this space, and I believe that Elite Partner Investment is well-positioned to play a key role in driving this growth in collaboration with WBS."

Amongst the topics of discussion identifying the game-changing trends in the web3.0 ecosystem are decrypting the regulatory landscape of virtual assets, central bank digital currencies, and cross-border payments and maximizing ESG impact with blockchain.

Mohammed Saleem, Founding Chairman, WBS noted, "We are honoured to announce the endorsement of HH Sheikh Juma Ahmed Juma Al Maktoum, member of the ruling family of Dubai, alongside the participation of the most prominent players in the crypto and Web 3.0 space, including Binance, VeChain, Ripple, Polygon, Investcorp, and many others. This shows the influence and growth of the WBS conference, making it a premier event globally in this ever-changing industry. Attendees can network and learn from the brightest minds in the field, making WBS Dubai a must-attend event for those seeking valuable insights and connections."

Sunny Lu, Co-Founder & CEO, VeChain added, "I look forward to joining the World Blockchain Summit and sharing the work we're doing over at the VeChain Foundation. Our team is enabling revolutionary applications of blockchain in the field of sustainability. World Blockchain Summit presents an ideal opportunity to share more information about these important developments with an expert audience."

Confirmed speakers at the summit include:
– Sandeep Nailwal, Co-Founder, Polygon
– Sunny Lu, Co-founder & CEO, Vechain
– Helen Hai, Executive VP of Binance and Head of Binance Charity, Binance
– Max Kordek, CEO and Co-founder, Lisk
– Gracy Chen, Managing Director, Bitget
– Jean-Charles Gaudechon, CEO, OneFootball Labs
– Alex Zinder, Global Head, Ledger Enterprise
– Dina Sam'an, Co-Founder and Managing Director, CoinMENA
– Reece Merrick, Senior Director, Global Strategic Partners, Ripple
– Nena Dokuzov, National representative in European Blockchain Partnership, Republic of Slovenia
– Herve Francois, Blockchain Fund Partner, Investcorp
Confirmed sponsors at the summit include:
– Gold sponsors: IMPT.io, UrbanID, Web3 Management
– Exhibitors: Cinemakoin.io, Crastonic, DeCir, Sabai Ecoverse
– Official PR Partner: Luna PR
– Official Content Distribution Partner: Zex PR Wire
– Official Event App Partner: CrowdComms
– Ecosystem Partner: CryptoOasis
– Association partners: European Blockchain Association, MENA Fintech Association
– Community Partners: EcoX, APAC DAO
– Media partner: Cointelegraph, beincrypto, Cryptonewz, Bitcoin World, Coinbold, The News Crypto, CAN Newswire, Dx Talks, BitCoin Addict, Coin Cruncher, CoinsCapture, Cryptopolitan, Gagsty, ICOHolder, The Cryptonomist, CoinPedia Fintech News, Crypto Reporter, Hashd News, Dsrpt Blog, CryptoEvents, Bitcoin Trading, Crypto Bulls Club, Bitcoin Insider, The Coin Republic, The Eastern herald, Kiro Media and Itez

About World Blockchain Summit

World Blockchain Summit is the home of global web 3.0 communities and experts designed to foster growth, collaboration, and adoption of the latest emerging technologies in the space. This is the world's largest series of summits that is exclusively dedicated to the proliferation of the ecosystem and adoption of blockchain, crypto, metaverse and web 3.0 solutions that connects founders, developers, investors, regulators, enterprise buyers, media and influencers.

WBS has hosted over 20 editions in over 10 countries.

For more information and tickets, visit www.worldblockchainsummit.com/Dubai

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Malaysian Genomics to Boost Play on the Football Pitch

PETALING JAYA, Malaysia, Feb 27, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre Berhad, a leading genomics and biopharmaceutical specialist, is collaborating with KL City FC Sdn Bhd (KLCFC), the manager of the KL City FC football club, on the deployment of the Group's genetic screening tests for peak athletic performance.
Dr. Nurul Aqma Anis, Head of Special Projects and Quality of Malaysian Genomics

Stanley Bernard, Chief Executive Officer of KLCFC

Sasha Nordin, Chief Executive Officer of Malaysian Genomics; Giancarlo Gallifuoco, KLCFC defender; and Dato' Alvin, Executive Director of Malaysian Genomics; at MGRC HQ [L-R]


The collaboration will see the Group conducting analyses of players' DNA and providing consultations to players and coaching staff on the genetic results in relation to practical opportunities to improve sports physiology, nutrition, strength and conditioning, injury prevention, and recovery. KLCFC will share with the Group feedback related to the results and outcomes of modifications to its team's existing training, nutrition and recovery protocols after the incorporation of genetic results.

Dr. Nurul Aqma Anis, Malaysian Genomics' Head of Special Projects and Quality said, "Having started offering genetic screening tests in 2012, Malaysian Genomics is Southeast Asia's most well-established DNA company and our genetic test for peak athletic performance is one of the latest in our test portfolio. By collaborating with professional sports teams like KLCFC, among others, we can monitor the impact and outcome of genetic-based recommendations for athletic training and recovery, ensuring that our genetic tests and resulting recommendations offer practical information and benefits for professional athletes and weekend warriors alike."

Stanley Bernard Stephan Samuel, Chief Executive Officer of KLCFC said, "Top athletes are at a competitive edge in professional sports hence the information obtained from genetic testing will directly assist the athlete to understand themselves more in the aim to reach optimum level of performance."

"I was amazed by the tremendous amount of information generated in my genetic screening report from Malaysian Genomics. In just the first review of my report, the Malaysian Genomics team and I were able to identify practical and immediately actionable changes to my supplement regime as well as warm-up exercises, which I would not have known to do without this test. I can't wait to experience the positive impact it has on me on the pitch," said KLCFC defender, Giancarlo Gallifuoco.

Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre Bhd: 0155 [BURSA: MGRC] [RIC: MGRC:KL] [BBG: MGRC:MK], http://www.mgrc.com.my/

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Logory Logistics Technology (02482.HK) Announces its Global Offering

HONG KONG, Feb 27, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – The operator of one of the largest digital freight platforms in China – Logory Logistics Technology Co., Ltd. ("Logory" or the "Company"; 02482.HK), announces details of its Global Offering and listing of H Shares on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the "Hong Kong Stock Exchange").

Highlights of the Global Offering:
— Number of Offer Shares under the Global Offering: 43,211,000 H Shares (subject to the Over-allotment Option);
— Number of Hong Kong Offer Shares: 4,322,000 H Shares (subject to adjustment);
— Number of International Offer Shares: 38,889,000 H Shares (subject to adjustment and the Over-allotment Option);
— Offer Price Range: HK$2.9 to HK$3.5 per H Share;
— The Hong Kong Public Offering is expected to close at 12:00 noon (at 11:30 a.m. for completing electronic applications under the White Form eIPO service) on Thursday, 2 March 2023;
— Dealings in the H Shares on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange are expected to commence on Thursday, 9 March 2023;
— Haitong International Capital Limited is the Sole Sponsor.

In 2002, the predecessor of Logory was established in Beijing. The Company has successfully built a digitalized ecosystem for road freight transportation in China. According to China Insights Industry Consultancy Limited ("CIC"), the Company operates one of the largest digital freight platforms in China in terms of Online GTV during the three years ended 31 December 2019, 2020 and 2021 and the nine months ended 30 September 2022. The Company provides digital freight services and solutions to shippers, such as logistics companies and cargo owners, as well as truckers. In recent years, the Company's business scale has recorded a general trend of growth. From 2019 to 2021, the Online GTV of shipping orders completed on the Company's digital freight platform was RMB23.4 billion, RMB27.9 billion and RMB38.0 billion respectively. The Company had served over 11,600 shippers and 2.7 million truckers who had completed an aggregate of over 36.2 million shipping orders on the Company's digital freight platform as of 30 September 2022.

In addition, the Company also operates Trucker Community, an "online + offline" community for truckers, and Truck Plus, a comprehensive portfolio of truck sales and aftermarket solutions. According to CIC, Trucker Community is the largest community for truckers in China and the largest community in the logistics industry in China, in terms of the number of registered users as of 31 December 2021. Trucker Community and Truck Plus business provide strategic value complement to the Company's digital freight business and generate strong synergies.

Logory plans to offer an aggregate of 43,211,000 H Shares (subject to the Over-allotment Option), of which 4,322,000 H Shares (subject to adjustment) will be offered in the Hong Kong Public Offering, and 38,889,000 H Shares (subject to adjustment and the Over-allotment Option) will be offered by way of International Offering. The Offer Price will not be more than HK$3.5 per H Share and is currently expected to be not less than HK$2.9 per H Share.

The Hong Kong Public Offering commenced on Monday, 27 February 2023 and is expected to close at 12:00 noon (at 11:30 a.m. for completing electronic applications under the White Form eIPO service) on Thursday, 2 March 2023. Dealings in the H Shares on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange are expected to commence on Thursday, 9 March 2023. The H Shares will be traded in board lots of 1,000 H Shares each.

Assuming an Offer Price of HK$3.2 per H Share (the mid-point of the indicative Offer Price range) and assuming no exercise of the Over-allotment Option, the Company estimates that it will receive net proceeds from the Global Offering of approximately HK$75.9 million after deducting underwriting commissions, fees and estimated expenses payable in connection with the Global Offering. The Company currently intends to use these net proceeds from the Global Offering to 1) further upgrade and enhance its digital freight business, with a goal to address more in-depth demands from customers under more diversified business scenarios and to relentlessly improve the user experience for digital freight business; 2) further expand Trucker Community and Truck Plus solutions; 3) enhance research and development efforts and to strengthen technological capabilities; 4) recruit additional sales, marketing and operational personnel so that its reserve of talents is commensurate with the growth of business; 5) use as working capital and other general corporate purposes.

Cornerstone investors of the Company, Hefei Gaoxin Development & Investment Group Co., Ltd. and XINGTAI HOLDING COMPANY (HONG KONG) LIMITED have agreed to subscribe for such number of Offer Shares, which may be purchased with an aggregate amount of approximately HK$68.16 million.

Haitong International Capital Limited is the Sole Sponsor. Haitong International Securities Company Limited is the Overall Coordinator, Sole Global Coordinator, Joint Bookrunner and Joint Lead Manager. CLSA Limited is the Joint Bookrunner and Joint Lead Manager. Valuable Capital Limited, SDHG International Securities Limited and Sinomax Securities Limited are the Joint Lead Managers.

About Logory

In 2002, the predecessor of Logory was established in Beijing. The Company has successfully built a digitalized ecosystem for road freight transportation in China. According to China Insights Industry Consultancy Limited, the Company operates one of the largest digital freight platforms in China in terms of Online GTV during the three years ended 31 December 2019, 2020 and 2021 and the nine months ended 30 September 2022. The Company provides digital freight services and solutions to shippers, such as logistics companies and cargo owners, as well as truckers. In recent years, the Company's business scale has recorded a general trend of growth. From 2019 to 2021, the Online GTV of shipping orders completed on the Company's digital freight platform was RMB23.4 billion, RMB27.9 billion and RMB38.0 billion respectively. The Company had served over 11,600 shippers and 2.7 million truckers who had completed an aggregate of over 36.2 million shipping orders on the Company's digital freight platform as of 30 September 2022. In addition, the Company also operate Trucker Community, an "online + offline" community for truckers, and Truck Plus, a comprehensive portfolio of truck sales and aftermarket solutions. The Company seeks to benefit and empower the participants in the ecosystem of road freight transportation industry, to enhance transparency and synergy in such collaboration through its digitalized services, and to help such participants establish more balanced and reciprocal relationships through repeated transactions, so as to contribute to the standardization and sustainable development of China's road freight transportation industry.


Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

PT Resources Signs MoU for an International Supply Chain Intelligent Park that Integrates Digital Technology

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 27, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – PT Resources Holdings Berhad, a processor and trader of frozen seafood products, and trader of other food products, is pleased to announce that the Company has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Ocean Exchange (Fujian) Foreign Trade Services Co. Ltd to establish cooperation between the two parties for the joint development of the Malaysia East Coast International Supply Chain Intelligent Park, which is inspired by the Marche International Cold Logistics and Cross-border E-commerce Project (Fuzhou Park) located in Fujian province, China.
MoU Signing Ceremony

YB Dato’ Mohamad Nizar bin Dato’ Sri Mohamad Najib


The project, which facilitates bilateral trade between Malaysia and China through Fuzhou, China is estimated to be worth RMB1.562 billion (or approximately RM1 billion). The project involves the establishment of an International Supply Chain Intelligent Park in Kuantan, Pahang, which is intended to drive the development of food and light industries supply-chain between Malaysia and Fuzhou with the aim of rapidly achieving currency internationalisation between the two countries.

The International Supply Chain Intelligent Park will encompass amongst others, integrated cold chain facilities to facilitate cross-border supply of consumer food as well as establish a digital financial platform utilising the UnionPay network to streamline and facilitate effortless cross-border payments and settlements between the International Supply Chain Intelligent Park and Fuzhou Park. In addition, the project also aims to boost the trade between the Malaysian seafood wholesale market and China through digital transformation, whilst collaborations with cold chain logistics companies will be initiated to facilitate an integrated logistics supply chain.

The Managing Director of PT Resources, Mr. Heng Chang Hooi said, "This is an excellent opportunity for both countries to develop a logistics hub to support international trade between Malaysia and China. We expect the project to strengthen the supply chain between Malaysia and China as well as be beneficial to the end consumers."

"In addition, we expect a growth in our overseas sales in view of the growing affluence in China which will contribute to an increase in demand for frozen seafood in China."

Member of the Pahang State Executive Council, YB Dato' Mohamad Nizar bin Dato' Sri Mohamad Najib said, "We commend the governments of Malaysia and China for their foresight in ensuring that businesses in both countries run their operations seamlessly through the project. We believe these initiatives could attract both domestic and international investors and businesses. China remains as one of Malaysia's top trading partners and it is vital to have a hub to facilitate international trades between both countries."

The MoU was signed by PT Resources' MD, Mr. Heng Chang Hooi and Ocean Exchange representative, Mr. Richard Gan Woei Jer. Witnessing the MoU signing were Fujian province's Member of the Standing Committee, Fuzhou secretary Lin Baojin; Deputy Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat, YB Alice Lau Kiong Yien; Member of the Pahang State Executive Council, YB Dato' Mohamad Nizar bin Dato' Sri Mohamad Najib; Chinese Embassy Minister-Counselor, Lin Shiguang; and Fuzhou Deputy Mayor, Huang Jianxiong.

Image 1: MoU Signing Ceremony
[L-R]
Host:
1. Wu Yongzhong, Fuqing Mayor
Standing:
1. Huang Jianxiong, Fuzhou Deputy Mayor
2. Lin Baojin, Fujian province's Member of the Standing Committee, Fuzhou secretary
3. YB Alice Lau Kiong Yien, Deputy Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat
4. Lin Shiguang, Chinese Embassy Minister-Counselor
5. YB Dato' Mohamad Nizar bin Dato' Sri Mohamad Najib, Member of the Pahang State Executive Council
Seated:
1. Liangyong, Representative of Minqing County Government
2. Temenggong Datuk Vincent Lau Lee Ming, Representative of KTS Group
3. Heng Chang Hooi, Managing Director of PT Resources Holdings Berhad
4. Richard Gan Woei Jer, Representative of Ocean Exchange (Fujian) Foreign Trade Services Co. Ltd
( https://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_PTResources202302271.jpg )

Image 2: YB Dato' Mohamad Nizar bin Dato' Sri Mohamad Najib
1. YB Dato' Mohamad Nizar bin Dato' Sri Mohamad Najib, Member of the Pahang State Executive Council
( https://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_PTResources202302272.jpg )

PT Resources Holdings Bhd: 0260 [BURSA: PTRB], https://www.ptresourcesgroup.com.my/

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Tianjin Port Group, Tianjin Port Development and Tianjin Port Co Visit to and promotion activities in Singapore and Hong Kong bear fruitful results

HONG KONG, Feb 27, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Tianjin Port Group (the controlling shareholder holding 53.5% equity of Tianjin Port Development) , Tianjin Port Development Holdings Co., Ltd. ("Tianjin Port Development" , Hong Kong stock code: 03382), and its listed subsidiary company Tianjin Port Holdings Co., Ltd. ("Tianjin Port Co", Shanghai Stock code: 600717) (Tianjin Port Development and Tianjin Port Co collectively referred to as the "Group") were in Singapore and Hong Kong between February 15th and 22nd, to visit and carry out a series of promotion and exchange activities with customers and business partners to explore cooperation and development opportunities, to the end of hastening construction of Port of Tianjin into a world-class green smart hub port that can contribute to Tianjin opening to the world and achieve high quality economic development.


In Singapore, Tianjin Port Group and the Group visited Hapag-lloyd (Singapore) Pte Ltd., Ocean Network Express Pte. Ltd., PSA International, Pacific International Lines (PTE) Ltd. and COSCO-PSA Terminal, etc. to explore in-depth and comprehensive cooperation in the future, seizing together the opportunities of RCEP trade development, seeking complementary edges, sharing experience, and joining hands to open a new chapter of high-quality development for the port and shipping industry.

While in Hong Kong, Tianjin Port Group and the Group visited Orient Overseas Container Line Co., Ltd., ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd. and COSCO Shipping Port Co., Ltd. to deepen synergistic port and shipping sectors development, with the hope of encouraging all parties to capture opportunities, make full use of their advantages, and strengthen cooperation in areas such as port operation management, logistics channel construction, and shipping network, thereby better facilitate domestic and international dual circulation, so as to provide stronger support to the high-quality development of the regional economy and society .

On the trip, Tianjin Port Group and PSA International signed a memorandum of strategic cooperation, and strategic cooperation framework agreements were signed with China Merchants Port Group Co., Ltd. and COSCO Shipping Port Co., Ltd respectively. Underlining these endeavors is the hope of, through cooperation, promoting development of green energy, smart ports, and construction of international shipping centers, logistics supply chain, among others by Tianjin Port Group and its subsidiaries.

The Group sees in its visit to Singapore and Hong Kong opportunities to explore more aspects of cooperation and joint development. Our hope is for the different regions to complement each other's strengths and explore cooperation in a more solid and in wider scope.


Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

AussieBum to Host Event in Support of WorldPride on Friday, 3 March 2023

SYDNEY, AU, Feb 26, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Sydney-based men's underwear and swimwear brand, AussieBum, has announced its upcoming event in support of WorldPride, scheduled to take place at The Ark, a private and exclusive tennis centre located in Sydney's Haberfield on Friday, 3 March 2023.
Sean Ashby, Founder of AussieBum is a supporter of Sydney's WorldPride celebrations


Fun and Inclusivity: AussieBum's WorldPride Event

The event, which takes place the day before the Sissy Ball, invites everyone to a fun-filled occasion that promises to be an unforgettable experience. The party is focused on promoting equality, inclusivity, and fun. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in a range of activities, such as a uniquely named spectacle named the "double slip and slide competition".

Food vans, drinks, and gifts will also be provided to ensure a memorable and fun experience for all attendees.

The event brings together the Aussie LGBTIQA+ community who get to do something special for their international friends visiting to celebrate the concluding events of the Sydney WorldPride festival.

Gym Facilities and Fun Under the Sun

The event also features a elite gym facility which includes a sauna and circuit gym. For Pilates enthusiasts, there's state-of-the-art equipment, and for those chasing a pump, a brand new gym is on site.

Sun, Tans, and a Golden Glow

The event runs from 10 am to 1 pm, providing attendees with ample time to soak up the sun before the Bondi Beach Party, Mardi Gras Sissy Ball, and Pride March occurring on the following days. The event will be catered with iconic Aussie food, party anthem music, and guests will have the opportunity to meet some of Australia's favourite sporting and TV icons.

AussieBum's event is expected to be a highlight on the WorldPride calendar and attendees are encouraged to arrive early, as the event will be a lockout, and spaces are limited.

A Day of Fun in the Sun

The event is the perfect opportunity for attendees to play tennis with Australia's elite and best while enjoying a day of fun in the sun. The event promises to be a special and memorable occasion, and with some of Australia's show business elite already on board, attendees can expect plenty of surprises and delights throughout the day.

Contact & Event Details:

Media Inquiries: Sean Ashby, Founder, AussieBum +61412345624
Email: sean@aussiebum.com

Date of Event: Friday, 3 March 2023 from 10am – 1pm
Location: THE ARK (Haberfield Tennis Centre), 154A Hawthorne Parade, Haberfield NSW 2045. Get off at Hawthorne Stop (15min ride). Signs will direct attendees to the private and exclusive The Ark tennis centre.
Cost: Complementary, limited to 500 guests
AussieBum Website: https://www.aussiebum.com/
AussieBum Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aussiebum/?hl=en
AussieBum Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aussiebum/

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Champion REIT Announces 2022 Annual Results

HONG KONG, Feb 24, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Champion Real Estate Investment Trust (stock code: 2778), the owner of Three Garden Road and Langham Place, announces its financial results for year ended 31 December 2022.

(Left) Ms. Amy Luk, Investment and Investor Relations Director & (Right) Ms. Christina Hau, Chief Executive Officer

Ms. Christina Hau, Chief Executive Officer


Overview
The local market sentiment gradually improved as COVID-19 moderated throughout the year. Nevertheless, the global economy in 2022 was marked by rising interest rates and inflation which dampened consumer sentiment and raised borrowing costs. The severe fifth wave of COVID-19 in the first quarter caused considerable interruptions for our tenants as well as the overall leasing momentum of our properties. Champion REIT recorded a drop in distributable income by 13.6% to HK$1,298 million and distribution per unit ("DPU") declined 14.0% to HK$0.1956.

Three Garden Road
Three Garden Road recorded a shrank of the rental income by 7.8% to HK$1,346 million in 2022 (2021: HK$1,460 million). Occupancy of Three Garden Road was 82.7% as at 31 December 2022 due to downsizing and relocation of tenants in the financial industry.

Langham Place Office Tower
Total rental income of the property was relatively stable at HK$363 million (2021: HK$365 million). Occupancy of the property was 93.3% as at 31 December 2022. Lifestyle tenants remained a mainstay among the new occupiers, accounting for 71% as at 31 December 2022.

Langham Place Mall
Full year tenants' sales went up 8%, outperforming the overall Hong Kong retail sales which dropped by 0.9% in 2022. The beauty segment recorded an encouraging growth, contributing to a 210.4% increase in turnover rent portion to HK$117 million. The total rental income of the property went down 3.1% to HK$650 million (2021: HK$670 million). The mall remained fully occupied as at 31 December 2022.

Distribution
Distributable income of the Trust dropped 13.6% to HK$1,298 million (2021: HK$1,503 million) and DPU dropped 14.0% to HK$0.1956 (2021: HK$0.2275). Based on the closing unit price of HK$3.08 recorded as at 30 December 2022, the total DPU represented a distribution yield of 6.4%.

Asset Value
The appraised value of the Trust's property portfolio was HK$63.6 billion as at 31 December 2022, declining 2.7% from HK$65.3 billion as at 31 December 2021.

Sustainability
While making a stable progress in our 2030 Environmental, Social and Governance ("ESG") targets, the establishment of the 2045 Net Zero roadmap further reinforces our decarbonisation commitments. Besides the first existing building in Hong Kong to achieve the WELL Building Platinum Standard, our ongoing decarbonisation advancement and green innovation enable Three Garden Road to attain its "Double Platinum" honour along with the Platinum certification of BEAM Plus Existing Building with Hong Kong's highest score. We also launched a series of activities circled on the "Love . Play . Farm" project to achieve both green and social sustainable impacts.

Outlook
The gradual relaxation of COVID-19 measures for residents and visitors in Hong Kong, as well as the border reopening with mainland China should benefit the local economy. Overall, 2023 remains a challenging year for the Trust in view of potential global economy recession despite the fact that mainland China's reopening is expected to reinvigorate the retail and potentially office markets.

Looking forward, we will continue to take a prudent approach on liability management and treasury management to identify yield enhancing opportunities. For potential acquisitions, we will continue to take an opportunistic and conservative approach. We will continue to monitor the market conditions, and capture business opportunities to enhance the performance of the Trust, and collaborate closely with tenants and stakeholders on our sustainability journey.

About Champion REIT (stock code: 2778)
Champion Real Estate Investment Trust is a trust formed to own and invest in income producing office and retail properties. The Trust focuses on Grade A commercial properties in prime locations. It currently offers investors direct exposure to nearly 3 million sq. ft. of prime office and retail floor area. These include two Hong Kong landmark properties, Three Garden Road and Langham Place, as well as a joint venture stake in 66 Shoe Lane in Central London. Since 2015, the Trust has been included in the Constituent of Hang Seng Corporate Sustainability Benchmark Index of Hang Seng Indexes.
Website: www.championreit.com


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Malaysian Genomics Pivots to Biopharmaceuticals for Growth

PETALING JAYA, Malaysia, Feb 24, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre Berhad, a leading genomics and biopharmaceutical specialist, today announced that the Group recorded a revenue of RM1.64 million for the second quarter ended 31 December 2022 (2Q 2023). This amount is down from RM7.63 million in 2Q 2022, as the Group moved its focus from vaccines to biopharmaceuticals.
En Azri Azerai, Executive Director of Malaysia Genomics Resource Centre Berhad


For the quarter under review, the Group recorded a loss before tax (LBT) of RM1.27 million compared with a profit before tax (PBT) of RM1.01 million in 2Q 2022, mainly due to business expansion and production of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), which required additional human resource capital, research and development expenditure, and marketing.

For the first six months ended 31 December 2022 (1H 2023), the Group recorded a revenue of RM5.46 million, which is a RM11.48 million decrease from the RM16.94 million registered in 1H 2022. The Group reported a LBT of RM0.43 million for 1H 2023 compared to a PBT of RM1.25 million in the corresponding period in the previous financial year.

Azri Azerai, Executive Director of Malaysian Genomics, said, "Our Group remains committed to sustaining growth over the longer term by focusing on immunotherapy and cell therapies under the biopharmaceutical business we are expanding through our distribution network in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. We are also developing new FMCG products to offer to these new markets while seeking to expand into other markets. Our recent initiatives include a commercial collaboration on an innovative genetic test for reproductive health and the development of novel phytopharmaceuticals with potential therapeutic and commercial value."

"The financial performance for the quarter under review was mainly affected by the need to spend in support of the pivot to biopharmaceuticals, which the Group is well positioned to take advantage of given our track record as a leading provider of genetic screening and genome analysis services," he added.

Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre Bhd: 0155 [BURSA: MGRC] [RIC: MGRC:KL] [BBG: MGRC:MK], http://www.mgrc.com.my/

Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com