HKIoD Organises Directors’ Conference 2022 – “From Resilience to Sustainability”

HONG KONG, Sep 22, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – The Hong Kong Institute of Directors ("HKIoD") hosted Directors' Conference 2022 yesterday at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. With the HKSAR and also HKIoD both celebrating their 25th anniversary, the conference this year extended to a full day, featured 11 sessions including power talks and in-depth panel discussions held physically and online with 430 attendees in all.

Directors' Conference 2022 held physically and online with 430 attendees in all.

Opening address by The Honourable
Michael Wong, GBS, JP,
Deputy Financial Secretary

In his closing speech, Mr Christopher Hui, GBS, JP, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury thanked the HKIoD for organizing this meaningful conference.

Welcoming participants to the event, Dr Christopher To, Chairman of HKIoD, said, "In the last five years, Hong Kong has continued to rank high in competitiveness or as a global financial centre in the world, suggesting that Hong Kong is somewhat resilient amid adversities including the pandemic. However, as there are still many looming uncertainties, we must not be complacent. We should learn the true meaning of resilience and gain skills in implementing sustainability initiatives and engaging stakeholders in developing sustainable business practices in such VUCA times." Citing the HKIoD Corporate Governance Scorecard, Dr To noted that Hong Kong listed companies have been improving in corporate governance over the past 16 years while the demands have been increasing as per global trends.

The conference brought together 21 world-class business and community leaders, scholars and policy makers to share their insights on a spectrum of topics, including (1) Fusion of People, Ideas and Technology; (2) Roadmap of Driving for Excellence; (3) Hong Kong's Role as an IFC in RMB Internationalisation; (4) Non-profits' Business Purpose; (5) Driving a Top-notch Financial Market; (6) The Board to Lead in Climate Governance; (7) Leading to Survive and Thrive in Challenges; and (8) The Rule of Law in Doing Business Going on to 2047.

Dr Carlye Tsui SBS JP, Chief Executive Officer, HKIoD, said: "Crises can make an organisation stronger and more resilient when its leaders have the determination, foresight and wisdom to turn the tide and triumph over turbulence. We should all be seeking proven measures to help our organisations fend off challenges and achieve true sustainability." Learning from COVID-19, Dr Tsui noted the global director perspective that the top items on board agenda are broader risk-set, enhanced ESG and greater stakeholder communication. She also advised that in this digital age, boards should regard technological change with a strategic perspective, continuing learning and assessment of the leadership and culture readiness for it.

About The Hong Kong Institute of Directors

The Hong Kong Institute of Directors is Hong Kong's premier body representing directors to foster the long-term success of companies through advocacy and standards-setting in corporate governance and professional development for directors. A non-profit-distributing organisation with membership consisting of directors from listed and non-listed companies, HKIoD is committed to providing directors with educational programmes and information service and establishing an influential voice in representing directors. With international perspectives and a multi-cultural environment, HKIoD conducts business in biliteracy and trilingualism. Website: http://www.hkiod.com.

Media Enquiries:
Strategic Public Relations Group
Brenda Chan +852 2114 4396 brenda.chan@sprg.com.hk
Chak Yau +852 2114 4395 chak.yau@sprg.com.hk

The Hong Kong Institute of Directors
Odessa So +852 2889 4988 odessa.so@hkiod.com
Joanne Yam +852 2889 1414 joanne.yam@hkiod.com

Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Restricted Shares Will be Lifted on 22 September, and the Management and Investors of Arrail Group are “Hoarding”, Release High Growth Signals

HONG KONG, Sep 22, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – The restricted shares of Arrail Group Limited ("Arrail Group" or the "Company", stock code: 06639.HK), a leading dental services group in China, will be officially lifted and listed for circulation on 22 September 2022. In this regard, the Company's management and investors clearly presented the idea of being "hoarding" and their current confidence.

Arrail Group is a leading dental services group and have established a nationwide footprint in China, operating both Arrail Dental, a leading premium dental services brand, and Rytime Dental, a middle-end dental services brand. According to Frost & Sullivan Report, the Company is the largest dental service provider in China's premium private dental service market and the third largest dental service provider in China's entire private dental service market based in terms of total revenue in 2020.

Institutional shareholders' confidence in long-term development is demonstrated by "not to reduce its shareholding"

Based on the confidence in the industry prospect and the future development of Arrail Group, the major investors of the Company said that they would continue to hold shares. Meanwhile, as disclosed in the prospectus of the Company, approximately 31.55% of the shares held by Mr. Zou Qifang, the founder of the Company, and his management team will remain locked for 6 months until the end of March 2023.

It is understood that prior to the public offering, Arrail Group has carried out several rounds of financing from January 2010 to January 2021, with the Pre-IPO Investors including KPCB China Fund, Qiming Venture Partners, OrbiMedAsia, Temasek, Goldman Sachs, Hillhouse Capital, etc. During the listing period, the Company also introduced five cornerstone investors, namely Abax, Harvest, Hudson Bay, OrbiMedAsia OrbiMed and Modern Dental, with subscribed amount of approximately HK$507 million of shares, accounting for approximately 74.66% of the offering shares as per the IPO Price with a lock-up period of 6 months. The "no reducing shareholding" idea of the management of Arrail Group and major investors will not only help stabilise the share price of the Company, but also promote the long-term stable development of the Company and enhance investors' confidence.

The scarcity and uniqueness of national chain are recognised by the market

It is worth mentioning that few institutions can achieve the nationwide coverage with the distinguishing regional characteristics of the dental service market. The Company is the only national chain dental institution listed on the market at present. Its business is distributed in four core regions domestically, namely North China, East China, South China and West China, and 15 cities. The scarcity and uniqueness of Arrail Group are gradually being recognised.

Since entering the Hong Kong Stock Connect on 5 September, both the share price and liquidity have improved significantly. On 9 September, the trading volume reached approximately 7 million shares, with over HK$63 million. The share price has increased by nearly 100% since early September. The Company's business expansion prospects and development potential are promising.

The solid fundamentals and outstanding performance also added confidence for "not to reduce its shareholding". As disclosed in the financial report, affected by the news and the improvement of comprehensive strength, for the financial year ended 31 March 2022, the total number of visits of Arrail Group reached 1.559 million, representing a year-on-year increase of 13.7% from 1.371 million in the financial year 2020/2021; The total revenue was RMB1.624 billion (the same below), representing a year-on-year increase of 7.16% as compared to the financial year 2020/2021; The adjusted net profit for the year amounted to RMB66 million, up 18.0% year on year, with strong profitability.

The next step of the Company's development is also worth the market's expectation. In early July, Arrail Group announced a strategic cooperation with Wuxi Tongshan. The project was completed on 1 September. In addition, the two new hospitals and six clinics in this financial year were also basically completed. It is expected that 268 chairs will be added in this financial year, representing an increase of 20% as compared to the previous financial year. The management of the Company stated that the new chairs will lay a solid foundation for the long-term development of the Company in the future.

In the long run, with the implementation of the centralised purchase policy, the market gradually returns to the rational cognition of the health care service sector. As the only listed national dental chain medical institution in the market, Arrail Group is undoubtedly the first one to enjoy the market bonus. In the future, Arrail Group will continue to improve its operational capabilities and service quality, and enhance its core competitive advantages. It is expected that the results and valuation of Arrail Group will be improved, thus promoting the further development of its dental services.

Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Malaysian Genomics, Rinani Genotec Sign LOI with Universiti Malaysia Sabah

PETALING JAYA, Malaysia, Sep 21, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Leading genomics and biopharmaceutical specialist Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre Berhad (Bursa: MGRC, 0155) is pleased to report that the Group has signed a letter of intent (LOI) with the Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS) and Rinani Genotec Sdn Bhd (Genotec) to collaborate on research and development (R&D) in genetics, and regenerative and alternative medicines.

Chairman of Malaysian Genomics, Datuk Seri Dr. Chen Chaw Min

Under the LOI, MGRC, which owns a high-throughput sequencing lab, advanced microarray facility, and new state-of-the-art cell processing lab, as well as Genotec, which specializes in biomedical treatments using stem cells, will assist in strengthening the teaching and research activities of the undergraduate programme at UMS' Faculty of Science and Natural Resources.

This cooperation will enable the exchange of research resources and ideas to enhance the quality of research at UMS, as well as create opportunities for students from the Faculty of Science and Natural Resources to serve their internship period at MGRC or Genotec.

Chairman of Malaysian Genomics, Datuk Seri Dr. Chen Chaw Min, said, "We are happy to assist UMS undergraduates in pursuing their R&D goals so that they have a better understanding of their field of study. This is also in support of the National Biotechnology Policy 2.0 launched recently focusing on agriculture and food security, healthcare and wellbeing, as well as industrial and the circular economy."

The Dean of the Faculty of Science and Natural Resources, UMS, Professor Dr. Jualang Azlan Gansau said, "UMS is actively engaging in research as well as teaching activities and the involvement of industry is crucial in ensuring the relevance of such activities conducted at the University."

The signing of the LOI followed UMS' visit to MGRC's Biosafety Level 2 cGMP (Current Good Manufacturing Practice)-certified laboratory, which is used for the production of cell therapies, including CAR T-cell therapies for various cancers.

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

Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

JCB sponsors Singapore’s one of the largest countdown event

TOKYO & SINGAPORE, Sep 20, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – JCB Co., Ltd. ("JCB"), Japan's only international payment brand, will sponsor STAR ISLAND SINGAPORE COUNTDOWN EDITION 2022-2023 Presented by JCB ("STAR ISLAND"), which will be held by Avex Asia Pte. Ltd. ("Avex Asia"), subsidiary wholly owned by Avex Entertainment Inc., from December 25 to December 31 2022.

STAR ISLAND is a fireworks musical show from Japan that perfectly interfuses Japan's traditional fireworks with immersive audio experience, lights, and performance acts, all of which are performed in a spectacular location. It was held in conjunction with the Marina Bay Singapore Countdown in 2018, one of the largest countdown events in Asia, supported by the Singapore Government. This year's show is held for the first time in three years due to the COVID-19 Pandemic.

For more information about STAR ISLAND: http://www.starisland.sg/

In 2019, before the COVID-19 Pandemic, approximately more than 19.1 million visitors[1] annually traveled to Singapore from overseas, including approximately 880,000 annual travelers[2] from Japan, which hit a record high. However, the number of travelers to Singapore in 2021 significantly decreased to approximately 330,000 (of which, approximately 6,000 travelers from Japan) due to the COVID-19 outbreak.

This event, STAR ISLAND, will be held with the aim of achieving the recovery of not only travel and tourism within Singapore but also inbound travel and tourism to Singapore from its neighboring countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, the Philippines and Vietnam where JCB Cards are issued, and from other countries such as Japan.

JCB, which has been working to increase the number of JCB merchants in Singapore since 1991, decided to sponsor this event in order to encourage JCB Cardmembers, issuers and merchants in Singapore, a country who is the driving force in the overall ASEAN market, to become familiar with the JCB brand and understand its value, in addition to supporting travel to Singapore and its recovery.

Event Outline
– Date: Sunday, 25 December to Saturday, 31 December 2022
– Place: Marina Bay area event venue, The Float at Marina Bay (Singapore)
– Official website: http://www.starisland.sg/
– Organizer: Avex Asia Pte. Ltd., Avex Entertainment Inc.
– Sponsors: Urban Redevelopment Authority, Singapore Tourism Board
Note: The event outline and production details may be subject to change. Please check the official website for details.

About Avex Asia Pte. Ltd.

Avex Asia Pte. Ltd. organizes and holds live music events and anime-related events mainly in Asia as the Asian headquarters of Avex Group. Moreover, it also rolls out license businesses using not only IPs[3] held by Avex but also various IPs.

About JCB

JCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 39 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are now issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 140 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase its merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. For more information, please visit: www.global.jcb/en/

[1] Singapore Tourism Board
[2] Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO)
[3] IP stands for Intellectual Properties. In the field of entertainment, music, artists, television personalities, animes, video works, games, characters and others are referred to as IPs.

Contact
Ayaka Nakajima
Corporate Communications
Tel: +81-3-5778-8353
Email: jcb-pr@jcb.co.jp

Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

HKTDC Export Index 3Q22: Exporter confidence continues to improve

HONG KONG, Sep 19, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – The sentiment among Hong Kong exporters continues to improve. The HKTDC Export Index increased a further 1.9 points to 32.8 in the third quarter of 2022, indicating a sustained improvement in confidence in the short-term export performance. However, exporters are facing downward pressure on prices, with the Trade Value Index falling 11.5 points to 40.2.

HKTDC Director of Research Irina Fan and Corey To announced the HKTDC Export Index for the third quarter of 2022 at a press conference today (19 September).

HKTDC Director of Research Irina Fan told a press conference today that a deteriorating external environment was keeping the recovery slower than hoped. "Weakening demand in major markets dampened by high inflation and aggressive monetary tightening, coupled with rising Sino-US trade tensions and other fallouts from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, also cloud the export outlook," she said.

The HKTDC conducts the Export Index survey every quarter, interviewing some 500 Hong Kong exporters from six major industries – machinery, electronics, jewellery, watches and clocks, toys and clothing – to gauge business confidence in near-term export prospects. The Index indicates an optimistic or pessimistic outlook, with 50 as the dividing line.

Shift in focus

Ms Fan said more than half of the respondents (52.0%) in the latest exporters' survey view the shortened quarantine requirement in the Mainland China – a seven-day centralised stay plus three days of home confinement – as positive for business. She added that enabling more flexible business travel arrangements (53.8%), the gradual resumption of cross-border commerce and trade (33.0%), and a smoother production flow (31.8%) were cited as the top benefits.

While the impacts of the pandemic continue to decline, COVID-19-related issues remain among the top concerns for Hong Kong exporters over the next three months. Most respondents said COVID-19 persistence (40.2%) and border closure (22.6%) are the major impediments to export performance.

"To help them deal with this changing environment, Hong Kong businesses are tending to shift from being market-focused to more money-focused," Ms Fan said. Developing other product categories (36.9%) and stabilising finances to ensure sufficient cash flow (35.6%) are the most popular business strategies adopted by the survey respondents. Additionally, more of them said they intend to increase unit prices (35.2%, up 18 percentage points).

Jewellery, Japan outperform

HKTDC Economist Corey To said jewellery was currently the most promising sector with the highest sub-index at 44.2, followed by toys at 37.0. The jewellery sector also showed the largest improvement, with a 9.9-point increase from the previous quarter, while the electronics sector gained 2.3 points to 32.7.

Mr To said Asia continues to provide a relatively promising outlook, adding that Japan remains the best performer at 48.4 (up 0.8 points), followed by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) bloc (46.9, up 3.6 points) and Mainland China (45.8, up 2.7 points).

Recovering supply chains

He said the pandemic impact on businesses tended to be less severe in the third quarter as compared with April-June. "Fewer respondents experienced negative impacts on their business resulting from the pandemic (77.9%, down 1.2 percentage points). Among them, those whose business had been very negatively affected fell 11.8 percentage points to 23.4%."

Mr To said rising transportation costs (64.1%) and logistics disruptions (51.8%) remained the key challenges for Hong Kong exporters, though both fell significantly – by 8.5 and 13.4 percentage points respectively – from the previous quarter, reflecting the gradual easing of supply chain issues. "But it is worth noting that more respondents reported communications issues with overseas buyers/suppliers (48.2%, up 26.6 percentage points) and order cancellations (21.2%, up 4.5 percentage points)."

References
– HKTDC Research website: http://research.hktdc.com/
– HKTDC Export Index 3Q22: Gradual Recovery Underway https://bit.ly/3BetyBI
– Photo download: https://bit.ly/3Lm8UUV

About HKTDC

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn

Media enquiries
Please contact the HKTDC's Communication and Public Affairs Department:
Beatrice Lam, Tel: +852 2584 4049, Email: beatrice.hy.lam@hktdc.org

Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Filing of Society Pass (Nasdaq: SOPA) Form 8-K/A in Connection of Acquisitions of AdActive Media CA, Inc and Thoughtful Thailand Ltd; Acquired Subsidiaries Recognised 2021 Revenues of US$5.6 million

SINGAPORE, Sep 19, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Society Pass Incorporated (Nasdaq: SOPA) ("SoPa" or the "Company"), Southeast Asia's ("SEA") leading data-driven loyalty and e-commerce ecosystem, today announces the filing of Form 8-K/A with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") in connection of acquisitions of AdActive Media CA, Inc (the "CA Sub") and Thoughtful Thailand Ltd (the "Thailand Sub"), (the Thailand Sub and the CA Sub comprise the "Acquired Subsidiaries").

Click Here (on SEC website) to view the Form 8-K/A filing.
https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/0001817511/000160706222000581/sopa091222form8ka.htm

Summary Points:

– On 07 July 2022, SoPa, through its wholly-owned subsidiary, Thoughtful Media Group Incorporated ("Thoughtful Media" or "TMG"), a Nevada corporation, a Thailand-based, a social commerce-focused, premium digital video Multi-Platform Network ("MPN")/social media influencer advertising platform, acquired from AdActive Media Group, Inc., a Delaware corporation, (i) all of the outstanding capital stock of the CA Sub, and (ii) 99.75% of all of the outstanding capital stock of the Thailand Sub.

– Integrating the Acquired Subsidiaries onto its platform, TMG is a social commerce-focused, premium digital video MPN/social media influencer advertising platform headquartered in Thailand with an operating presence in the US, Vietnam, and Philippines. TMG expects to expand to Indonesia and Singapore in 4Q 2022.

– The combined 1Q 2022 revenues and loss from operations from the Acquired Subsidiaries totaled $1,312,986 and $84,582, respectively.

– The combined 1Q 2021 revenues and loss from operations from the Acquired Subsidiaries totaled $1,265,053 and $114,032, respectively.

– The combined 2021 revenues and loss from operations from the Acquired Subsidiaries totaled $5,655,795 and $1,173,022, respectively.

– The combined 2020 revenues and loss from operations from the Acquired Subsidiaries totaled $5,928,800 and $899,933, respectively.

About Society Pass Inc

Founded in 2018 as a digitally-focused loyalty and data marketing ecosystem in the fast-growing markets of Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore and Thailand, which account for more than 80% of the SEA population, and with offices located in Angeles, Bangkok, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Jakarta, Manila, and Singapore, SoPa is an acquisition-focused e-commerce holding company operating 6 interconnected verticals (loyalty, digital media, travel, telecoms, lifestyle, and F&B), which seamlessly connects millions of registered consumers and hundreds of thousands of registered merchants/brands across multiple product and service categories throughout SEA.

Society Pass completed an initial public offering and began trading on the Nasdaq under the ticker SOPA in November 2021. SOPA shares were added to the Russell 2000 index in December 2021.

SoPa acquires fast growing e-commerce companies and expands its user base across a robust product and service ecosystem. SoPa integrates these complementary businesses through its Society Pass loyalty platform and circulation of its universal loyalty points or Society Points, which has entered beta testing and is expected to launch broadly at the beginning of 2023. Society Pass loyalty program members earn and redeem Society Points and receive personalised promotions based on SoPa's data capabilities and understanding of consumer shopping behaviour. SoPa has amassed more than 3.3 million registered consumers and over 205,000 registered merchants and brands. It has invested 2+ years building proprietary IT architecture to effectively scale and support its consumers, merchants, and acquisitions.

Society Pass leverages technology to tailor a more personalised experience for customers in the purchase journey and to transform the entire retail value chain in SEA. SoPa operates Thoughtful Media Group, a Thailand-based, a social commerce-focused, premium digital video multi-platform network; NusaTrip, a leading Indonesia-based Online Travel Agency; Gorilla Networks, a Singapore-based, web3-enabled mobile blockchain network operator; Leflair.com, Vietnam's leading lifestyle e-commerce platform; Pushkart.ph, a popular grocery delivery company in Philippines; Handycart.vn, a leading online restaurant delivery service based in Vietnam; and Mangan, a leading local restaurant delivery service in Philippines. For more information, please check out: http://thesocietypass.com/.

Cautionary Note Concerning Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may include "forward-looking statements," within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this press release are forward-looking statements. When used in this press release, words such as "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "intend" and similar expressions, as they relate to us or our management team, identify forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs of management, as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, the Company's management. Actual results could differ materially from those contemplated by the forward-looking statements as a result of certain factors detailed in the Company's filings with the SEC. All subsequent written or oral forward-looking statements attributable to us or persons acting on our behalf are qualified in their entirety by this paragraph. Forward-looking statements are subject to numerous conditions, many of which are beyond the control of the Company, including those set forth in the Risk Factors section of the Company's registration statement and prospectus relating to the Company's initial public offering filed with the SEC. The Company undertakes no obligation to update these statements for revisions or changes after the date of this release, except as required by law.

Media Contacts:
PRecious Communications
sopa@preciouscomms.com

Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Sarawak Consolidated Industries Berhad Appoints Directors

KUCHING, MALAYSIA, Sep 15, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Civil engineering specialist Sarawak Consolidated Industries Berhad (SCIB) is pleased to announce the redesignation of Mr. Ku Chong Hong as Executive Director and the appointments of En. Mohd. Shakir bin Shahimi and En. Nuraiman Shaiful bin Annuar as Independent Non-Executive Directors (INED), effective today.

Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SCIB, Encik Rosland bin Othman

Mr. Ku Chong Hong

En. Mohd. Shakir bin Shahimi

En. Nuraiman Shaiful bin Annuar

Mr. Ku, who was appointed to the board of directors on 17 March 2022 as an INED, has experience in audit and assurance, and business advisory-related fields through various local and international companies involved in a range of industries from property and construction to software.

En. Mohd. Shakir will replace Ku as chairman and member of the audit committee. A chartered accountant, he graduated with a degree in accountancy from Universiti Utara Malaysia and is a member of the Malaysian Institute of Accountants. He was an auditor with Arthur Andersen & Co and has experience auditing public-listed and privately-held companies. He is currently an audit manager with Khairuddin Hasyudeen & Razi. He is also an INED with Bintai Kinden Corporation Berhad, where he is chairman of the nomination, remuneration and risk management committees as well as member of the audit committee.

En. Nuraiman has attended the International Bachelor of Business Administration Programme from Hult International Business School, London United Kingdom in year 2017. He has experience in the oil and gas as well as construction fields. He holds directorships in Hipro Technologies Ltd and Petro Flanges and Fittings Sdn Bhd.

Group Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of SCIB, Encik Rosland bin Othman, said, "We welcome En. Mohd Shakir and En. Nuraiman aboard and look forward to their guidance and advice. Their experience and knowledge will be a good addition to the board while enhancing our governance decision-making structure. We would also like to congratulate Mr. Ku in his redesignation as Executive Director. His insights and knowledge will be invaluable in helping us grow the Company."

About Sarawak Consolidated Industries Berhad

Sarawak Consolidated Industries Berhad (SCIB) was founded in 1975 and has evolved from a small enterprise into a reputable Group of companies listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad. Currently, SCIB is operating three factories in Kuching, Sarawak, one factory in the Pending Industrial Estate and two factories in the Demak Laut industrial park.

SCIB is well known for professional management and has long history of innovative ideas and technological advances. Coupled with its wealth of experience and research acquired in more than three decades, SCIB offers its clients in-depth expertise through a combination of technology, efficiency and speed. For more information, visit scib.com.my.

Sarawak Consolidated Industries Bhd: 9237 [BURSA: SCIB], http://scib.com.my

Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers’ Contest 2022 winners revealed

HONG KONG, Sep 14, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Asia's leading fashion event CENTRESTAGE, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), concluded on 11 September with the 2022 Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers' Contest (YDC). Ten promising local designers showcased their creations at an eye-catching fashion show with celebrities Will Or, Siuyea Lo and JB showing up as special guests to add to the celebratory atmosphere. Following the catwalk parade, a judging panel of industry professionals picked out three winners for the four YDC awards. Champion Vicky Tsang received a monetary reward together with a one-month overseas internship sponsored by Fang Brothers Knitting Ltd.

Ten promising local designers showcased their creations at an eye-catching fashion show with celebrities Will Or, Siuyea Lo and JB showing up as special guests to add to the celebratory atmosphere.

The winners at YDC 2022 are as follows:
– Champion: Vicky Tsang; Design: "EXHAUSTING A CROWD"
– Excellence Award: Lorraine Tam; Design: "I AM NOT INFECTED"
– Best Visual Presentation Award: Lorraine Tam; Design: "I AM NOT INFECTED"
– My Favourite Collection Award: Justine Wan; Design: "AN UNQUIET MIND"

Champion Vicky Tsang said her collection, "EXHAUSTING A CROWD", used 3D prints to illustrate a surrealist aesthetic. "I am very surprised and happy to be named Champion! Even though there were a lot of setbacks during the whole design process, I came to the show today with equanimity. Thank you to all the staff who provided their support over the past two months," Ms Tsang said after receiving the award.

Judges offer valuable feedback to YDC participants

The judging panel for this year's YDC was made up of an impressive roster of fashion experts and media pundits. Chief Judge was Katherine Fang, Chairman of the HKTDC Garment Advisory Committee. The other judges on the panel were Ahy Choi, Senior Deputy Editorial Director of VOGUE Hong Kong; Jonathan Lee, Wholesale Director, APAC of Ryodan Showroom; Jimmy Chan, Head of Account Manager, APAC of Farfetch; Constance Lee, ConStyle Limited Director and Fashion Stylist; and Joe Li, Creative Director, Circularity Ambassador.

Hideaki Shikama, designer of the acclaimed Japanese fashion label Children of the discordance, was invited as VIP judge. Although he was not able to travel to Hong Kong to participate in the show, he shared a message via video, saying: "Each designer's collection has its own uniqueness, and I was surprised at the perfection shown in the actual samples. I was so stimulated by all of your collections. Thank you so much."

Websites
– CENTRESTAGE: http://centrestage.com.hk
– Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers' Contest (YDC): http://www.fashionally.com
– Winning collections photo download here:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1r0y1Ricvb8QtouORjOGZ_xihMUkjIZs8

About YDC

The YDC aims to promote a new generation of local design talent, while creating opportunities to showcase their collections in front of global and local industry professionals at CENTRESTAGE. Organised by the HKTDC, the contest is considered one of the most prestigious events of its kind in the region, with a successful track record of past contestants becoming leading designers for fashion enterprises or establishing their own labels. To further promote the international visibility of local Hong Kong designers, in 2012 the HKTDC launched FASHIONALLY.com, an online platform that showcases the work of local labels and talents and links them with global industry insiders and opportunities.

About HKTDC

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn

Media enquiries
For more information, please contact Best Crew PR:
Diana Tang, Tel: +852 9199 6723, Email: diana.tang@bestcrewpr.com
Reni Kwok, Tel: +852 6291 4283, Email: reni.kwok@bestcrewpr.com
Mercy Mo, Tel: +852 9096 1148, Email: mercy.mo@bestcrewpr.com

HKTDC's Communications and Public Affairs Department:
Snowy Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4537, Email: snowy.sn.chan@hktdc.org
Agnes Wat, Tel: +852 2584 4554, Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.org

Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Asia’s fashion showcase CENTRESTAGE concludes

HONG KONG, Sep 13, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Asia's premier fashion event CENTRESTAGE, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and sponsored by Create Hong Kong (CreateHK), which is backed by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region*, drew to a successful close on 11 September. The extravaganza brought together more than 240 fashion brands from 15 countries and regions, offering visitors a trip through numerous phygital experiences, including visits to the metaverse. More than 2,700 trade buyers visited the physical fair and joined online business meetings. As of today, the HKTDC has arranged about 740 business meetings, enabling exhibitors to explore business opportunities both online and offline. The three-day fair also attracted more than 22,500 public visitors to shop for fashion items, up 30% from last year.

The seventh edition of CENTRESTAGE ran from 9 to 11 September, bringing together more than 240 fashion brands from 15 countries and regions and attracting 2,700 trade buyers and 22,500 public visitors to participate and shop for fashion items.

Mrs Chanunpat Pisanapipong, Trade Commissioner & Consul, DITP, Ministry of Commerce, Royal Thai Government; Sunny Tan, member of the Legislative Council of HKSAR; Shirley Chan, Council Member, HKTDC; Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman, HKTDC; Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of HKSAR; Margaret Fong, Executive Director, HKTDC; Katherine Fang, Chairman, HKTDC Garment Advisory Committee; and Derek Chan and Mite Chan, co-founders of DEMO [L-R]

The three-day exhibition featured 30 fashion shows and events, including CENTRESTAGE ELITES and the Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show. Multiple brands showcased their latest collections on stage (Louise Wong – wearing DEMO design outfit)

HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Sophia Chong said: "Technology has become an integral part of our lives. In this digital era, the fashion industry has been at the forefront and is making forays into the area where technology meets fashion, opening up new possibilities for the industry. At the same time, environmental protection remains a topic of global concern and an imminent issue which businesses need to respond. "Inclusion and Diversity", the central theme of this year's CENTRESTAGE, not only emphasises individual uniqueness and aesthetics, but also promotes caring for society and the pursuit of sustainability in fashion to achieve diversity and gain forward momentum in the industry."

Industry cautiously optimistic, nearly 30% expect sales growth

An on-site survey during the show gauged product trends and the fashion industry's outlook. Regarding sales prospects and the market outlook for next year, 28% of respondents expected an overall increase in business in the coming year, while 39% thought it would remain steady, reflecting a cautious optimism among industry players. More than 50% of respondents expected production or sourcing costs to increase, while 44% saw no change. The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the industry's operations over the past two years; 66% of respondents indicated that the impact included a decline in sales/profits, 28% reduced the number of brick-and-mortar stores, while 38% expanded e-commerce business.

Focusing on technology to address environment and sustainability issues is the biggest trend in the fashion industry, with 30% of respondents expecting sustainable fashion or functional outfits to be the most popular next year. In addition, 62% agreed or completely agreed that launching sustainable fashion collections will be the key promotional strategy next year. Meanwhile, 42% of respondents agreed that seasonless fashion collections was trending, while 41% believed the see-now, buy-now strategy was also trending.

Riding the tech wave to promote sustainable fashion

This year's CENTRESTAGE attracted 60 local and global sustainable fashion brands among other labels, showcasing cutting-edge designs and trends in sustainable fashion. At the Fashion Hong Kong Runway Show held on the first day of the event (9 September), six local designer brands – namely 112mountainyam, ANGUS TSUI, Bettie Haute Couture, BLIND by JW, SUN=SEN, and V VISSI, showcased their environmentally friendly spring/summer 2023 collections using upcycled fabrics. ITOCHU Textile Prominent (Asia) was one of the local buyers in attendance. Celia Lo, Manager of the company's apparel department, said the event helped promote local designer brands. She found that Hong Kong sustainable fashion label, V VISSI, which uses recycled fabrics in its collections, is very appealing, saying that ITOCHU will explore business collaboration with the label.

Hong Kong exhibitor Match Showroom showcased 14 sustainable fashion and lifestyle brands at CENTRESTAGE this year. The company's Founder and Brand Director Maggie Lui said the fair offered a comprehensive platform to promote brands that embrace sustainability, upcycling and the use of natural fabrics. "We have successfully raised our profile, enhanced the brand awareness and promoted our philosophy on sustainable fashion and lifestyle products through our presence here. Two watch companies exhibiting at the concurrent Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair approached us to explore the possibility of collaboration. This is the perfect place to gain exposure and to promote our brands," Ms Lui said.

Host of runway shows promote local design talents and create business opportunities

The three-day exhibition featured 30 fashion shows and events. The spotlight opening gala show CENTRESTAGE ELITES included the 2023 spring/summer collections from local designers Derek Chan and Mite Chan's renowned brand "DEMO", as well as acclaimed Japanese designer Hideaki Shikama's brand "Children of the discordance". The show attracted scores of industry professionals, celebrities and fashionistas.

In addition to the main runway show, FASHIONALLY Collection #19 featured a number of local brands, including ARTO., CAR|2IE, FromClothingof, KEVIN HO, Lapeewee, REDEMPTIVE and WHY. Lenzing Group, headquartered in Austria, is a leading supplier of textile fibres. The company's Global Head of Digital Brand Marketing, Vincent Leung, said Hong Kong is a hub in Asia and has the edge as a platform for businesses expanding into Mainland China. The fair is a great place to understand the latest market trends and discover local rising fashion talents. "Hong Kong's young fashion designers have strong potential for growth," Mr Leung said. "We have already collaborated with local brand ARTO., and identified two other designer brands – ABI and moonone – we will work together on launching new collections using our sustainable fibres."

Three other FASHIONALLY presentations were held, with three emerging local fashion brands – Wilsonkaki, along with first-time exhibitors Kowloon City Boy and VO-YAGE – showcasing their latest collections. Focusing on supply and trading of high-end yarn from Japan, Sawada Hong Kong is a well-established garment manufacturer with a history spanning 54 years. Vivian Tam, the company's Manager, said CENTRESTAGE helps fashion industry players explore new partnerships and opportunities. The company connected to two local menswear brands, Sred Namal and VO-YAGE during the fair to explore future collaboration.

* Disclaimer: The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only, and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organisers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, Create Hong Kong, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee.

Websites:
– CENTRESTAGE: www.centrestage.com.hk
– Fashion Hong Kong: www.fashionhongkong.com.hk/en
– Hong Kong Young Fashion Designers' Contest (YDC): www.fashionally.com/en
– CENTRESTAGE in Town: https://centrestage.hktdc.com/home/highlights/centrestage-in-town/
– CENTRESTAGE ELITES: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RdyfzVQ93-A
– Photo download: https://bit.ly/3qqtkT4

About HKTDC

The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong's trade. With 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn

Media enquiries
For more information, please contact Raconteur:
Molisa Lau, Tel: +852 6187 7786, Email: molisalau@raconteur.hk
Betsy Tse, Tel: +852 9742 7338, Email: betsytse@raconteur.hk

The HKTDC's Communications and Public Affairs Department:
Snowy Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4537, Email: snowy.sn.chan@hktdc.org
Agnes Wat, Tel: +852 2584 4554, Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.org

Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. http://www.acnnewswire.com

Shareholders of G Neptune Approved its Regularisation Plan

KUALA LUMPUR, Sep 13, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – The non-interested shareholders of G Neptune Berhad have approved its proposed regularisation plan during the extraordinary general meeting (EGM) held today. The shareholders' approval marks a key milestone for G Neptune's proposed regularisation plan which is expected to address the Company's Guidance Note 3 (GN3) status as well as return it to a stronger financial standing as well as profitability.

Peter Ling Sie Wuong, Independent Non-Executive Director; Cheah Hannon, Independent Non-Executive Director; Chai Tham Poh, Executive Director; and Dato' Haji Mohd Amran Bin Wahid, Non Independent Non Executive Chairman from G Neptune Berhad; Tan Sri Datuk Seri Gan Yu Chai, MD; Datuk Sydney Lim Tai Chin, ED; and Gan Yee Hin, ED and CEO from Southern Score Sdn. Bhd. and Alvin Ooi, Acting Head of Corporate Finance of Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad [L-R]

Gan Yee Hin, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Southern Score

An integral part of the approved regularisation plan is the proposed acquisition of the entire equity interest in Southern Score Sdn Bhd from Super Advantage Property Sdn Bhd for a purchase consideration of RM252.0 million to be satisfied through the issuance of 1.68 billion shares.

Southern Score is a construction management services company with a recorded net profit of RM6.51 million, RM19.20 million and RM35.18 million in the financial year ended 31 December 2019, 2020 and 2021 respectively. Super Advantage, being the vendor of Southern Score, has provided cumulative net profit guarantee of RM80.0 million over the three-year period from 2022 to 2024. Super Advantage is held by Tan Sri Datuk Seri Gan Yu Chai, the Managing Director of Southern Score, a veteran in the construction and property development industries with more than 30 years' experience as well as Gan Yee Hin, the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Southern Score.

Shareholders also approved to change the Company's name to "Southern Score Builders Berhad", a move undertaken by the Company to better reflect G Neptune's new corporate identity moving forward.

Commenting on the shareholders' approval, Gan Yee Hin said, "We would like to thank the shareholders for putting their trust and confidence in us. This is a key milestone towards the long-awaited completion of the regularisation plan. With the injection of Southern Score, we believe that G Neptune will be in a stronger financial standing and profitability, thereby benefiting all stakeholders."

Other than the proposed acquisition and proposed change of name, shareholders also approved the following proposals which are part of the proposed regularisation plan:

– proposed consolidation of every 10 existing G Neptune's shares into one share;
– proposed debt settlement amounting to RM3.1 million to Mr. Chai Tham Poh, an Executive Director of G Neptune, via the issuance of 20.67 million shares;
– proposed private placement to raise at least RM108.6 million through the issuance of 543.05 million shares to investors to be identified later and;
– proposed exemption from the obligation to undertake a mandatory takeover offer for the remaining G Neptune shares not already owned by Super Advantage as well as Tan Sri Datuk Seri Gan Yu Chai and Gan Yee Hin.

Gan Yee Hin added, "The shareholders' approval obtained today heralds a new beginning for Southern Score as we gain a step closer towards obtaining a listing status via GNB. We intend to leverage on our listing status to further grow our business for which our shareholders will also be able to partake in. We expect Southern Score's growth to be fuelled from growth in the construction sector where construction activities is expected to increase in tandem with economic growth following the reopening of the economy and country borders."

Kenanga Investment Bank Berhad is the principal adviser and sponsor for the proposed regularisation plan as well as placement agent for the proposed private placement while Malacca Securities Sdn Bhd is the independent adviser for the proposed exemption.

G Neptune Berhad: 0045 [BURSA: GNB], https://www.gneptune.com/
Southern Score: https://southernscore.com.my/

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