TANAKA Starts Taking Orders for Gold Bonding Wires Using “RE Series” 100% Recycled Precious Metals

TOKYO, Aug 30, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K. (Head office: Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo; Representative Director & CEO: Koichiro Tanaka), which operates the TANAKA Precious Metals manufacturing business, announced today that its subsidiary TANAKA Denshi Kogyo K.K. (Head office: Kanzaki-gun, Saga; Representative Director & President: Toshiya Yamamoto), which is engaged in the production of various types of bonding wires, will start taking orders for gold (Au) bonding wires manufactured using only “RE Series” 100% recycled precious metals. This is in addition to existing products which use raw materials that include gold directly produced from mines.

A compound for plating solutions has already been launched as the first product to use the RE Series supplied by TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo as raw materials. As a secondary use, the RE Series is being expanded^*1 to gold bonding wires manufactured by TANAKA Denshi Kogyo.

Boasting the world’s highest market share^*2, TANAKA Denshi Kogyo’s gold bonding wires support the world’s semiconductor industry. A stable worldwide supply of the RE Series is possible as it is being produced at four locations – Japan, Singapore, Malaysia, and China – and has obtained third-party verification.

TANAKA Precious Metals hopes to contribute toward the establishment of a sound material-cycle society and increased demand for sustainable materials and products by supplying the RE Series. In the future, TANAKA Precious Metals will further expand the business of recycling precious metals—which are natural resources with limited reserves—to the global level with the goal of achieving a stable supply.

■ About Gold (Au) Bonding Wires

Bonding wire is the metal wire that electrically connects semiconductor chips to external electrodes. They mainly use extremely fine wires (10+ microns thick) made from gold, silver, copper, and aluminum. In particular, bonding wires made using gold have better corrosion resistance, workability, connectivity, and chemical stability than those composed of other metals. Besides electronic products such as computers and mobile phones, semiconductors are also widely used in home appliances and vehicles. In addition, semiconductors are gaining greater attention as a critical component in electric vehicles and digital transformation, contributing to the realization of a carbon-neutral society.

■ About the RE Series

The RE Series is composed of materials refined only from recycled precious metals rather than from sources such as mined bullion. TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo has been operating a recycled precious metals business since it was established in 1885. By expanding its RE Series production line, it is working to supply products that use 100% recycled precious metal materials, starting in 2022.

In addition, TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo offers services using a comprehensive system of management within the Group, from product recovery to refining and remanufacturing into new products. Using advanced precious metal analysis technologies^* developed through many years of research and development, it is able to accurately evaluate the rate of precious metal content in recovered materials, which is important for recycling.

*One measure of precious metal analysis capabilities is the status of Good Delivery Referee, an accreditation of the LBMA and LPPM, the most prestigious organizations in the field globally, which TANAKA Kikinzoku Group received as one of only five companies globally and the only company in Japan and the rest of Asia. The Group is also the first in Japan to acquire ISO/IEC 17025 accreditation for its analysis technologies for platinum, gold, silver, and palladium.

■ About TANAKA Denshi Kogyo bonding wires

TANAKA Denshi Kogyo has produced various types of bonding wire since it was founded more than 50 years ago, and today it boasts a leading share of the global market. After establishing its first overseas production base in Singapore in 1978, the company has constructed additional production bases in Malaysia, China, and Taiwan. It now supplies its wires to countries engaged in the production of semiconductors around the world.

Press release in PDF: https://www.acnnewswire.com/docs/files/20220830_EN.pdf

■ About TANAKA Precious Metals

Since its foundation in 1885, TANAKA Precious Metals has built a portfolio of products to support a diversified range of business uses focused on precious metals. TANAKA is a leader in Japan regarding the volumes of precious metals handled. Over the course of many years, TANAKA has not only manufactured and sold precious metal products for industry but also provided precious metals in such forms as jewelry and assets. As precious metals specialists, all Group companies in Japan and around the world collaborate and cooperate on manufacturing, sales, and technology development to offer a full range of products and services. With 5,225 employees, the Group’s consolidated net sales for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2022, were 787.7 billion yen.*

*From the current consolidated fiscal year, the amounts of sales for some transactions are indicated as net values due to the application of the Accounting Standard for Revenue Recognition.

■ Global industrial business website
https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/

■ Product inquiries
TANAKA Kikinzoku Kogyo K.K.
https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/inquiries-on-industrial-products/

■ Press inquiries
TANAKA Holdings Co., Ltd.
https://tanaka-preciousmetals.com/en/inquiries-for-media/

*1 It is possible to continue placing orders for gold bonding wires manufactured using the conventional process.
*2 Source: SEMI Industry Research and Statistics/TECHCET, April 2020

Baguio’s Net Profit Increased by 45%, Contracts On Hand Recorded a Historical High with a Substantial Increase of around 60% to HK$3.4 billion

HONG KONG, Aug 30, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Baguio Green Group Limited ("Baguio" or the "Group", Stock Code: 1397.HK) is pleased to announce its unaudited interim results for the six months ended 30 June 2022 (the "Period"). During the Period, revenue was approximately HK$710 million, representing an increase of approximately 22% as compared with the same period last year. The increase was mainly due to the strong performance of our cleaning segment. Profit attributable to shareholders of the Company was approximately HK$17.8 million, representing an increase of approximately 45% as compared with the same period last year. Gross profit margin was 8.1%.

Business Overview and Prospects
In the first half of 2022, new contracts awarded to the Group amounted to a total of HK$1.95 billion. As a result, the Group recorded a historical high for its contracts on hand of approximately HK$3.4 billion (as of 30 June 2022), representing an increase of 60% from approximately HK$2.1 billion as of 31 December 2021. This will drive a strong revenue growth in the second half of 2022 and the subsequent years.

The Group's core business, cleaning services, recorded a considerable growth. Revenue of cleaning services increased by 42% to approximately HK$500 million, accounting for 70% of the Group's overall revenue during the Period. In addition, the Group secured a number of new street cleaning service contracts from the HKSAR Government worth approximately HK$1.6 billion during the Period. Winning these Food and Environmental Hygiene Department ("FEHD") street cleaning service contracts confirms that Baguio is a leading player in the Hong Kong cleaning market. Baguio now covers a total of seven Hong Kong districts, serving more than 2.5 million people (or a third of the city's population).

With regard to the waste management and recycling business, the Group won two new FEHD waste collection service contracts worth approximately HK$140 million in total. The Group's waste collection services network now covers a total of five districts in Hong Kong and serves approximately 1.5 million people, placing Baguio one of the key waste management leaders in Hong Kong.

The Group is contracted by the Environmental Protection Department ("EPD") to handle over 5,000 recycling spots (including plastic, glass bottles, metals and waste paper) across Hong Kong. We currently operate various sorting facilities to support our recycling business. Baguio's 33-month service contract under EPD's Plastic Recycling Pilot Scheme for plastic collection services in the Eastern, Kwun Tong and Central & Western districts successfully commenced in the first half of 2022. The collection volume is expected to rise in the second half of 2022.

To support the expected growth in the volume of the plastic recycling business, the Group recently introduced a new high-speed and fully-automated plastic-sorting facility. Enhanced by Near-Infrared ("NIR") technology, the new plant facilitates rapid separation of all plastic types and colours. It not only increases the processing volume, but also strengthens Baguio's plastic-sorting capability to precisely and effectively separate the collected plastic recyclables into different types for quality conversion. This new technology will drive the Group's plastic recycling business future growth. When fully operational, the plant's plastic processing capacity per year could exceed 10,000 tonnes, equivalent to 400 million plastic bottles.

In line with the Hong Kong's sustainable development, we continue to enhance our collection and recycling capabilities. Our joint venture with Swire Beverages Holdings Limited and another investor to set up Hong Kong's first food-grade ready PET plastic factory at the EcoPark in Tuen Mun has commenced operation. Collected plastics are turning into recycled plastic flakes, which can then be re-manufactured as new products. The production volume is gradually increasing.

The Group launched the "ESG+" solution this year to support listed company clients to enhance their ESG performance, thereby increasing their chances of securing green financing and becoming an ESG index constituent.

Regarding our green technology business, we were awarded EPD's first service contract last year for using bioconversion technology (Black Soldier Flies) to help solve Hong Kong's chicken manure problem. Located at the EcoPark in Tuen Mun, the facility is currently undergoing commissioning tests and is scheduled to become fully operational by the end of 2022, opening a new chapter for the Baguio's green technology business.

The Group strive to inject new momentum into our business with biotechnology. In partnership with Jardine Engineering Corporation Limited, the Group formed a Pilot Biochar Production Plant at the EcoPark in Tuen Mun which will enter testing phase within this year. By converting wood waste into high-quality biochar with pyrolysis technology, the production plant effectively turns waste into useful resources.

Mr. Ng Wing Hong, Chairman of Baguio, commented, "With the Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) Charging Scheme scheduled to be launched in the second half of 2023, it is expected to further motivate the public to recycle and to increase the recycling volume. With the implementation of the Producer Responsibility Scheme on Plastic Beverage Containers, the recycling rate of plastic beverage containers is expected to have a significant increase. The two schemes are expected to directly drive the growth of Baguio's recycling business and create solid returns from our investment in recycling facilities which creates a strong entry barrier to the competition.

Looking ahead, the Group will continue to contribute to the global environment protection by developing its existing business and constantly exploring projects with strong growth potential and green technology."

For details of the Group's 2022 interim results announcement, please visit the following website:
http://www.baguio.com.hk/en-S/Investor%20Relations/Announcements%20and%20Notices

About Baguio Green Group
Established in 1980, Baguio Green Group (Stock code: 01397.HK) is one of Hong Kong's largest and most respected integrated environmental services groups. It provides a full spectrum of professional services including professional cleaning, waste collection & recycling, waste management, green technology, organic fertilizer and animal feed production, horticulture & landscaping, and pest control. It serves a wide range of customers in various sectors including Government departments, statutory organizations and multinational corporations. Fully committed to ESG, the Group works relentlessly to advance sustainable development and create a cleaner, greener, healthier city.

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

PLS Plantations PAT up by 109.6%

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 30, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – PLS Plantations Berhad recorded a net profit after tax (PAT) of RM35.0 million, a strong conclusion to the financial year ended 30 June 2022 (FY2022). This represents an increase of 109.6% compared to RM16.7 million in the preceding financial year ended 30 June 2021 (FY2021). Total revenue for FY2022 stood at an all-time high of RM184.1 million, up 36.5% compared to RM134.8 million in FY2021 driven by increased sales and higher average selling prices of fresh fruit bunches (FFB).

Annual PAT was further moderated by several factors, including the recognition of fair value loss in biological assets of RM5.2 million compared to a RM1.4 million gain in the preceding quarter (Q3FY2022), higher tax, administration expenses, and a one-off provision for doubtful debt in the manufacturing and trading segment which the Company incurred in the last quarter of FY2022.

Net profit after tax and minority interest (PATMI) for the year stood at RM27.3 million, up 118.4% from RM12.5 million in the preceding financial year. The positive performance was mainly due to the improved quarter on quarter (QoQ) revenue of RM44.8 million up by 41.8% from RM31.6 million in the corresponding quarter for the period ended 31 June 2021 (Q5FY2021).

For the fourth quarter ended 30 June 2022 (Q4FY2022), PLS Plantations saw a dip in its PBT to RM4.8 million or 12.7% lower compared to RM5.5 million in Q5FY2021. Overall QoQ PAT saw a decrease to RM0.6 million, a decrease of 82.5% compared to RM3.7 million in the corresponding quarter last year. Earnings per share (EPS) currently stands at -0.10 sen (diluted) compared to 0.65 sen last year.

PLS Plantations Group CEO Lee Hun Kheng said, "It has been an eventful year for PLS Plantations. In addition to diversifying the business into different cash crops, we are also building our distribution channels and diversifying into downstream products, specifically into durian consumer products. We are focused on rolling out our Agropreneur Programme and building the Integrated Agrotech Park. Our collaboration with both the Federal and State Government and ecosystem partners will be the backbone of our efforts to play a role in strengthening the local agrofood ecology and network which will contribute to the nation's overall food security. Over the coming months, we will be executing a series of partnerships that will allow PLS to fast track our crop diversification efforts – specifically intercropping and cash crops."

The key initiatives for FY2022 initiated by PLS Plantations as part of its plan to become the nation's leading sustainable agrofood company are:

i. a joint venture with Landasan Erajaya Sdn Bhd ("LESB") on a proposed collaboration to undertake intercropping with cash crops, durian and other forest plantation activities;
ii. signing of Memorandum of Understanding ("MoU") with the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries ("MAFI") to conduct an in-depth study and put forward a proposal for the national food security agenda; and
iii. launched the PLS Agropreneur Programme and PLS Integrated Agrotech Park to strengthen the local agrofood ecosystem.

About PLS Plantations Berhad

PLS Plantations was incorporated in Malaysia in 1987 and was listed on the Second Board of Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange in 1995. Currently listed on the Main Board of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad, PLS and its subsidiaries are involved in the management and operation of forest, oil palm and durian plantations, as well as the processing, distribution and sale of durian products.

Forward-Looking Statements

The statement included in this press release, other than statements of historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statement generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "will," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "plan," "seek," or "believe." These forward-looking statements, which are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, may include projections of our future financial performance based on our growth strategies and anticipated trends in our business. These statements are only predictions based on our current expectations about future event. There are important factors that could cause our actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements to differ materially from the results, level of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statement, including, but not limited to our ability to win additional business. Although we believe the expectations reflected in the forward-looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future result, level of activity, performance, or achievements. You should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. These forward-looking statements apply only as of the date of this press release; as such, they should not be unduly relied upon as circumstances change. Except as required by law, we are not obligated, and we undertake no obligation, to release publicly any revisions to these forward-looking statements that might reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this release or those that might reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

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

Avantor and Avantor Foundation Make a Difference by Providing Critical Health Services for Vulnerable Communities in Singapore

Singapore, Aug 24, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Avantor Foundation, Avantor's philanthropic arm, committed financial resources to healthcare charitable organizations, HealthServe and SATA CommHealth, as part of the Foundation's mission to provide healthcare to those in need.

The grants will offer much-needed support to communities who would otherwise be unable to receive quality medical care. By identifying community needs and addressing them through these grants, the Avantor Foundation is able to contribute to the advancement of healthcare in Singapore and the region.

"As we continue to create a better world, grants like this demonstrate our commitment to providing healthcare to those in need," said Christophe Couturier, Executive Vice President, AMEA, Avantor and Board Member of the Avantor Foundation. "By working with SATA CommHealth and HealthServe, we want to connect and help communities, which deserve crucial assistance but are sometimes overlooked. The aid we are providing will address the critical unmet needs in healthcare and enable Science for Goodness, and ultimately create a lasting impact in our communities."

SATA CommHealth, an organization which serves the community through the provision of subsidized care in their medical centers, will work with approximately 50 community and grassroots organizations to provide free health screenings for the elderly and less fortunate through regular check-ups and early medical intervention to prevent chronic or deadly diseases.

"We are truly grateful to receive this generous donation from the Avantor Foundation," said Boon Khiang Chia, Director & Head of Strategic Partnerships & Branding, SATA CommHealth. "We will be able to facilitate collaboration with our community leaders and constituency representatives to effectively serve the healthcare needs of our beneficiaries, especially the elderly who are most vulnerable to poor health."

The Avantor Foundation also has provided a grant to HealthServe, a medical NGO that advocates for the needs and wellbeing of vulnerable, low-wage migrant workers in Singapore. Their services include healthcare, counseling, casework, mental health support and social assistance for their beneficiaries. HealthServe will use this grant for a nurse-led chronic disease case management program that supports migrant workers in need of medical assistance.

Michael Cheah, Executive Director, HealthServe said, "Bringing healing and hope to migrant workers has always been a cause that is very close to our hearts. This contribution from the Avantor Foundation will allow us to offer customized care plans to these workers in need of medical assistance and deliver better care outcomes for them in the long term."

About Avantor

Avantor, a Fortune 500 company, is a leading global provider of mission-critical products and services to customers in the biopharma, healthcare, education & government, and advanced technologies & applied materials industries. Our portfolio is used in virtually every stage of the most important research, development and production activities in the industries we serve. Our global footprint enables us to serve more than 225,000 customer locations and gives us extensive access to research laboratories and scientists in more than 180 countries. We set science in motion to create a better world.

For more information, visit www.avantorsciences.com/site/ and find us on:
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/avantorinc/
Twitter – https://twitter.com/Avantor_News
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/Avantorinc/

About Avantor Foundation

As the philanthropic arm of Avantor, the Avantor Foundation's mission is to create a better world by advancing science education and providing healthcare to those in need. Since 2009, the Avantor Foundation has been making a difference in the science community by supporting organizations aligned to its mission. Learn more at www.avantorsciences.com/pages/en/avantor-foundation.

Media Contact
Christina Koh
Director, Communications – AMEA
Avantor
M: +65 9720 0169
Christina.Koh@avantorsciences.com

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

Hektar REIT Sustainability & CSR Initiatives Gets Awarded

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 18, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Hektar Real Estate Investment Trust (Hektar REIT) has been awarded "Company of the Year" under the "Stakeholder and Community Sustainability Engagement Initiatives" category of the Sustainability & CSR Malaysia Awards 2022 held today at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

Second from Left: Secretary-General of the Ministry of Rural Development, YBhg Datuk Ramlan Harun and CEO of Hektar Asset Management Johari Shukri bin Jamil

Johari Shukri bin Jamil, CEO of Hektar Asset Management

This award follows the recent 4-star Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) rating upgrade received by Hektar REIT as a constituent of the FTSE4Good Bursa Malaysia Index (F4GBMI) in the June 2022 evaluation by FTSE Russell.

The Sustainability & CSR Malaysia Awards 2022, which was officiated by the Minister of Rural Development, YB Dato' Seri Mahdzir bin Khalid, and represented by the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Rural Development, YBhg Datuk Ramlan Harun is organised by CSR Malaysia, a publication and social initiative under the auspices of the Malaysian Welfare Society for Corporate Sustainability & Responsibility, which is the national organisation for sustainability in the country. Several nominations were received for the various categories, with awardees judged by a distinguished panel of judges drawn from the media and the Malaysian Welfare Society for Corporate Sustainability & Responsibility.

Chief Executive Officer of Hektar Asset Management Sdn. Bhd. (Hektar Asset Management), En. Johari Shukri bin Jamil said, "We would like to express our utmost appreciation and thank the panel of judges for this award and recognition of our efforts and see this as an encouragement to continue improving ourselves. Hektar REIT's Asset Under Management consists of five established neighbourhood-focused malls and one regional shopping mall, which play key roles in serving the various stakeholders – i.e., the shoppers, tenants, employees and surrounding community within their respective geographical areas.

During the pandemic, our shopping malls complied stringently with the Government's directives to provide a safe retail environment for all by upholding strict safety and hygiene protocols. CSR initiatives are close to our heart and we aim to continuously engage with the community by undertaking various initiatives for the underprivileged or vulnerable groups such as those affected by the pandemic as we at Hektar understand & believe that all of us owe a responsibility towards the betterment of our society."

"Our recent ESG rating on the F4GBMI shows that Sustainability and CSR matters are very much grafted into our corporate culture. Our sustainability framework, which was first set up in 2017, continues to evolve in response not just to legislation but also to wider social and environmental concerns. We learned much, especially during the pandemic, on being resilient and sustainable while responding to the importance of reducing our environmental footprint and increasing our responsibility towards our stakeholders."

About Hektar Real Estate Investment Trust

Hektar Real Estate Investment Trust (Hektar REIT) is Malaysia's first listed retail-focused REIT. The primary objectives of Hektar REIT are to provide unitholders with sustainable dividend income and to achieve a long-term capital appreciation of the REIT. Hektar REIT was listed on the Main Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad on 4 December 2006 and currently owns 2 million square feet of retail space in 4 states with assets valued at RM1.16 billion as at 31 December 2021. The REIT's strategic partner is Frasers Centrepoint Trust, part of Frasers Property Ltd, headquartered in Singapore. Hektar REIT is managed by Hektar Asset Management Sdn Bhd and the property manager is Hektar Property Services Sdn Bhd. Hektar REIT's portfolio of commercial properties includes Subang Parade in Subang Jaya, Selangor; Mahkota Parade in Melaka; Wetex Parade & Classic Hotel in Muar, Johor; Central Square in Sungai Petani, Kedah; Kulim Central in Kulim, Kedah and Segamat Central in Segamat, Johor. For more information, please visit www.HektarREIT.com

For more information or inquiries, please contact:
Investor Communications
Tel: +603 6205 5570
Email: ir@HektarREIT.com

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

Pertamina’s rank in Fortune’s Global 500 jumps 64 spots

JAKARTA, Aug 11, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Indonesian state-owned oil and gas company PT Pertamina has succeeded in re-establishing itself and made it to the 2022 Fortune Global 500 list, thereby being the only Indonesian company to be included on the list.

The building of PT Pertamina. (ANTARA/HO-PT Pertamina)

Pertamina is ranked 223rd on the list, climbing 64 places as compared to the 287th position in 2021, according to a release issued by the company on Wednesday.

In 2022, the Fortune Global 500 list places 30 world oil and gas companies in the Petroleum Refining category. Pertamina was ranked 21st, which is above Japanese petroleum company Idemitsu and Spanish multinational energy company Repsol.

State-Owned Enterprises (SOE) Minister Erick Thohir lauded Pertamina's success in re-entering the Fortune Global 500 list, with a significant improvement in ranking.

Thohir said that Pertamina's ranking is testament to the fact that Indonesia's SOEs can compete with global companies.

"I highly laud the directors, commissioners, and all Pertamina personnel, who have worked hard in increasing the company's competitiveness in the international arena," he stated in Jakarta on Monday (August 8).

Thohir pointed out that Pertamina's success demonstrates that SOEs are not only able to survive in the face of a pandemic but can also improve performance by making various improvements.

According to the minister, Pertamina's achievements cannot be separated from the transformation and restructuring measures undertaken through the formation of holdings and subholdings of the company.

"Transformation through its holdings and subholdings makes Pertamina's operations more effective and efficient because it focuses more on the core business. This is in line with our target that Pertamina must become a global energy champion company and have a valuation of US$100 billion," he remarked.

Thohir further expressed optimism that Pertamina's achievements would inspire other SOEs to perform better.

He also expressed confidence that other Indonesian SOEs can take a cue from Pertamina by optimally implementing necessary transformation, core values, and improvement.

"The better the performance of Indonesian SOEs, more significant will be the impact on the community, let alone until being recognized at the global level. Positive performance will certainly provide a large space for SOEs to contribute more in increasing national economic growth, maintaining market balance, as well as populist economic programs," Thohir remarked.

In line with the SOE minister's remarks, Pertamina CEO Nicke Widyawati said the company's efforts to boost competitiveness were unhindered by the pandemic, and even in the midst of severe challenges, Pertamina's financial performance soared sharply in 2021.

According to Widyawati, Pertamina's performance has helped it climb the rankings in the Fortune Global 500 list in 2022.

"Pertamina has succeeded in increasing the company's revenue and net profit twice as compared to the previous year. This is an extraordinary achievement in the midst of global challenges and a pandemic that has not ended," she affirmed.

She noted that Pertamina ranked fifth on the Fortune Global list for the Southeast Asian region. Moreover, in Asia, Pertamina was ranked 105th out of the 227 companies.

"Pertamina is also ranked 12th out of the 24 companies led by female CEOs and the only company in the Petroleum Refining category led by a female CEO," she pointed out.

Apart from making it to the 2022 Fortune Global 500 list, in September 2021, Pertamina also received an Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Risk Rating of 28.1 or was assessed to be at Medium risk.

Such a global assessment has placed Pertamina in the 15th rank out of 252 oil and gas companies around the world, and at the 8th rank in the integrated oil and gas sub-industry.

"This is global acknowledgment of Pertamina's commitment and efforts to lead energy transition and decarbonization to support Indonesia's target of net zero emissions in 2060 as well as the achievement of the potential of renewable resources in Indonesia in the context of sustainable growth," Widyawati explained.

In 2021, Pertamina successfully completed its business transformation by establishing six oil and gas subholdings: Upstream Subholding, Refining and Petrochemical Subholding, Commercial and Trading Subholding, Gas Subholding, Integrated Marine Logistics Subholding, and New and Renewable Energy Subholding.

Widyawati emphasized that transformation is a strategic step to adapt to future business changes. Hence, the company should move ahead in a more agile and swifter manner as well as focus on broader and aggressive business development.

"The transformation will continue to encourage Pertamina to become a world-class energy company. With the support of all stakeholders, Pertamina will fulfill the aspirations of shareholders to realize the target of ranking among the 100 world-leading companies," she affirmed.

In 2021, Pertamina had clocked a revenue of US$57.51 billion, an increase as compared to its revenue of US$41.47 billion in 2020.

Pertamina's net profit in 2021 had reached US$2.045 billion, which is almost twice as high as the 2020 net profit of US$1.05 billion.

Contact: Fajriyah Usman, VP Corporate Communications, PT Pertamina (Persero)
M: +62 858 8330 8686, Email: fajriyah.usman@pertamina.com, URL: https://www.pertamina.com
Written by: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga, Editor: Fardah Assegaf (c) ANTARA 2022

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

Pacific Green Successfully Executes Its Transition to Renewable Energy Recurring Income Model and Announces Its Annual Report for Year Ending March 31, 2022

DOVER, DE, Aug 11, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Pacific Green Technologies, Inc. (the "Company" or "Pacific Green", (OTCQB:PGTK)) announces that it has successfully completed its first milestone in the process of diversifying and regularizing its income streams. Pacific Green is transitioning from a single technology equipment provider in the marine sector to an asset-driven "build-own-operate" renewable energy and battery energy storage system ("BESS") development company, led by the financial close in June 2022 of its first 99.98 MW project at Richborough Energy Park, as part of Pacific Green's 1.1 GW pipeline of BESS developments in the UK. In summary:

– Successfully executed transition to renewable energy company with recurring income model from self-developed energy assets
– FY22 results impacted by COVID related slowdown to marine business
– 99.98 MW Richborough Battery Energy Park asset in construction, with projected commercial operations via the National Grid in June 2023
– Financial restatement reflects change in timing of milestone recognition. No impact on cash flows.

As part of this transition, along with tighter fuel spreads and COVID-19 pandemic logistical issues for the Company's clients and suppliers in the marine sector, revenues have been reduced for the year ending March 31, 2022 to $15.44 million (FY21 revenue: $52.62 million) with a net loss for the year of US$10.75 million (FY21 net loss: US$1.81 million).

Within the stated losses includes a one-off, non-cash write-down of combined goodwill and intangible assets, totaling US$7.06 million against Chinese subsidiary Pacific Green Technologies (Shanghai) Co. Ltd. (formally Shanghai Engin Digital Technology Co. Ltd.) and Pacific Green Innoergy Technologies Ltd., acquired in 2019 and 2020, respectively.

The restatement of past financials noted in the Company's year end filing reflects a change in the accounting treatment of the timing of revenue and expense recognition only, with no impact to cash flows, balances or the Company's ability to undertake business development in the energy storage sector.

Over the past six months, the spread between high-sulphur and low-sulphur fuel oils has rebounded to exceed US$200 per ton. Pacific Green has witnessed a significant increase in new enquiries for its emissions control systems, commonly known as "scrubbers", leading to further sales of the Company's technology in the past months.

The Company has built out its BESS division, recruiting a world-class team of experts to create an industry leading platform to deliver its 1.1 GW pipeline in the UK and is now looking to expand the platform geographically.

Pacific Green has invested in its first 99.98 MW BESS project at Richborough Energy Park in the UK, supported by the Company's 50% project equity partner, Green Power Reserves Limited, senior debt provided by Close Leasing Limited and energy optimization by Shell Energy Europe Limited. The development, Richborough Energy Park Limited, is currently in construction, with projected commercial operations commencing in June 2023.

During this period, the Company has funded the deposit to secure its second BESS development of 249 MW in the UK as part of the 1.1 GW pipeline.

About Pacific Green Technologies, Inc.

Pacific Green Technologies, Inc. is focused on addressing the world's need for cleaner and more sustainable energy. The Company offers Battery Energy Storage Systems and Concentrated Solar Power energy solutions to compliment its marine environmental technologies division. For more information, visit Pacific Green's website: www.pacificgreentechnologies.com

Notice Regarding Forward-Looking Statements:

This news release contains "forward-looking statements," as that term is defined in Section 27A of the United States Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Statements in this news release which are not purely historical are forward-looking statements and include any statements regarding beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions regarding the future. Such forward-looking statements include, among other things, the construction of the 99.98 MW BESS the Company is to develop in Kent; and any potential business developments in the UK and future interest in the Company's battery, solar and emissions control technologies.

Actual results could differ from those projected in any forward-looking statements due to numerous factors. Such factors include, among others, general economic and political conditions, the continuation of the construction of the 99.98 MW BESS, the sales of retrofit emissions control technologies and the ongoing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this news release, and the Company assumes no obligation to update the forward-looking statements, or to update the reasons why actual results could differ from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the beliefs, plans, expectations and intentions contained in this news release are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such beliefs, plans, expectations or intentions will prove to be accurate. Investors should consult all the information set forth herein and should also refer to the risk factors disclosure outlined in the Company's annual report on Form 10-K for the most recent fiscal year, the Company's quarterly reports on Form 10-Q and other periodic reports filed from time-to-time with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Contact:
Scott Poulter, Chairman & CEO
Pacific Green Technologies
T: +1 (302) 601-4659

SOURCE: Pacific Green Technologies, Inc.

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

Habitat for Humanity invests in Cambodian water-access startup TapEffect

Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Aug 11, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Habitat for Humanity's Terwilliger Center for Innovation in Shelter announced today a US$300,000 equity investment in TapEffect, a Cambodia-based startup which provides clean and affordable tap water to underserved rural and semi-rural communities. The investment also marks the fifth anniversary of Habitat's Shelter Venture Fund, launched in 2017 to accelerate innovative startups tackling affordable housing challenges worldwide.

It is estimated that 110 million people in Southeast Asia lack access to safe drinking water. In Cambodia, one third of the population rely on water from impure sources. TapEffect, founded in 2018, started from the desire to bring safe water to rural communities in Cambodia, while addressing the systemic barriers often faced by local providers, such as set-up costs and ongoing maintenance. The company designs, builds and operates self-sustaining piped water systems that can each support more than 10,000 people, and uses Internet of Things technology for remote monitoring and payment management, which reduces cost and increases operational efficiencies.

TapEffect offers a market-based solution where families pay a fraction of the cost for water compared to bottled or truck-in water options. Their initial demonstration system, built in 2020, serves over 14,000 people in 19 villages, and connects 12 schools and two healthcare facilities to clean and safe water.

"TapEffect's model combines technology, engineering and blended finance to create a holistic approach that can be easily replicated. By employing local contractors and construction teams, we also build capacity within local communities," said Hourt Vuthy, general manager at TapEffect. "We have been partnering with Habitat for Humanity since joining the ShelterTech Southeast Asia accelerator in 2020. The investment will help to bring the solution to more families across the region who still lack access to clean water and sanitation." TapEffect is also an investee of World Hope Social Ventures, which supports market-based, community-driven enterprise solutions.

Habitat's Shelter Venture Fund aims to nurture businesses with solutions that can improve housing conditions for low-income families. "We realized that high-potential enterprises often face a pioneer gap in their early stages of growth, when they are considered too risky by impact investors," said Luis Noda, Habitat for Humanity's Asia-Pacific vice president. "Through the Fund, we also send a message to the market that profitable opportunities exist in supporting entrepreneurs that are driving social change through innovation."

Twelve startups have received investments from the Shelter Venture Fund to date globally, supporting over 5 million people in accessing improved housing-related products and services. The portfolio includes Tvasta – builder of India's first 3D-printed house; Meridia – which uses mobile-based technology to improve land documentation and tenure security in Africa and Asia; and BURN – which impacts lives and the environment through the design, manufacturing and distribution of clean-burning cook stoves.

Since its launch, Shelter Venture Fund investees have catalyzed over US$34 million in further investments. At present, 40% of the portfolio focuses on solutions that are less damaging to the environment than market alternatives, such as water saving and reduced carbon emission technologies. The 12 ventures are also responsible for the creation of over 600 jobs in the locations where they operate.

About Habitat's Terwilliger Center for Innovation in Shelter

The Terwilliger Center for Innovation in Shelter, a unit of Habitat for Humanity International, works with housing market systems by supporting local firms and expanding innovative and client-responsive services, products and financing so that households can improve their shelter more effectively and efficiently. The ultimate goal of the Terwilliger Center's market systems program is to make housing markets work more effectively for people in need of decent, affordable shelter, thereby improving the quality of life for low-income households. To learn more, visit habitat.org/tcis.

About Habitat for Humanity

Driven by the vision that everyone needs a decent place to live, Habitat for Humanity found its earliest inspirations as a grassroots movement on an interracial community farm in South Georgia, U.S.A. Since its founding in 1976, the housing organization has since grown to become a leading global nonprofit working in more than 70 countries. In the Asia-Pacific region since 1983, Habitat for Humanity has supported millions of people to build or improve a place they can call home. Through financial support, volunteering or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve the strength, stability and self-reliance they need to build better lives for themselves. Through shelter, we empower. To learn more, donate or volunteer, visit habitat.org/asiapacific.

To set up interviews, receive photos or further information, please contact:
Julia Ferraz
jferraz@habitat.org
+852 61001806

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

Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries to Improve Food Security for Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 8, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Ministry of Agriculture and Food Industries (MAFI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with PLS Plantations Berhad, a leading agrofood company in Malaysia, to conduct an in-depth study and put forward a proposal for the national food security programme.

YBhg Dato' Haslina Binti Abdul Hamid, Secretary-General of MAFI, MAFI Minister YB Datuk Seri Dr. Ronald Kiandee, YAB Prime Minister of Malaysia Dato' Sri Ismail Sabri Bin Yaakob, PLS Plantations' Group Chairman YBhg Tan Sri Mohammed Nazir Bin Abdul Razak, and PLS Plantations' Group Chief Executive Officer Lee Hun Kheng.[L-R]

The MoU was officiated by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Yang Amat Berhormat Dato' Sri Ismail Sabri Bin Yaakob at the biennial Malaysia Agriculture, Horticulture and Agro Tourism (MAHA) 2022. Also present was the Minister of Agriculture and Food Industries, Yang Berhormat (YB) Datuk Seri Dr. Ronald Kiandee, and PLS Plantations' Group Chairman, Yang Berbahagia (YBhg) Tan Sri Mohammed Nazir Bin Abdul Razak. Also in attendance to sign the MoU were YBhg Dato' Haslina Binti Abdul Hamid, Secretary-General of MAFI, and PLS Plantations' Group Chief Executive Officer, Lee Hun Kheng.

YB Datuk Seri Dr. Ronald Kiandee said, "Malaysia continues to rise on the Global Food Security Index (GFSI)[1] and is ranked 39th, up from the 43rd spot in 2020[2]. We have performed well with an overall score of 70.1 compared to the previous year of 67.9. The increase in Malaysia's score (compared to the previous year) is the highest increase in score among the 113 countries involved.

However, due to multiple issues, compounded by rising population, and labour shortage, Malaysia's food and agriculture imports remains high at around RM55.5 billion[3]. As such, it is crucial for the industry – both public and private – to work closely to further strengthen our food sufficiency throughout the entire supply chain. At the same time, we need to organise ourselves to capitalise on opportunities to generate higher incomes for agriculture frontliners, close the income gap, and improve livelihoods. Securing this future also requires us to attract more youth to participate in the sector and we see public-private partnerships as a key strategy to injecting new programmes, technologies, and platforms that will attract new farmers and participants to the industry. Through these efforts we are confident we can improve our national food security resilience, accessibility, and affordability of quality food, which is in line with our National Food Security Policy (DSMN Action Plan) 2021 – 2025[4]."

YBhg. Tan Sri Mohammed Nazir added, "This MoU is a significant milestone for PLS Plantations. We look forward to supporting MAFI and the industry's efforts to further improve the nation's food sufficiency levels. The research and proposal will serve as a baseline that will guide our efforts in rolling out our food security programme. In addition, our newly launched initiatives, the PLS Agropreneur Programme and PLS Integrated Agrotech Park, will contribute to creating a thriving ecosystem where we can attract the experienced and specialised farmers to scale their farms and produce, as well as bring the best and brightest to participate in the industry."

The PLS Agropreneur Programme is a platform for new and experienced farmers who are interested to participate in the industry or scale their farms. It offers end-to-end support, from training and development, land lease, offtake network support, as well as financial support and incentives. The PLS Intergated Agrotech Park serves as a platform for collaboration with universities, and agrofood to science and technology companies.

He concluded, "Collaboration, specifically knowledge-sharing aided by technology and science have paved the way for the industries to grow and thrive. Likewise, for the agrofood industry, we see these initiatives as a way to elevate the industry, to bring our youth back to the suburbs and villages, and uplift the B40 communities, farmers and indigenous communities."

[1] Source: GFSI by The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) based in London, United Kingdom https://tinyurl.com/54zydpck
[2] Source: MAFI – https://www.mafi.gov.my/en_US/gfsi-2021
[3] Source: Department of Statistics Malaysia 2022 https://tinyurl.com/5xbvnv6r
[4] Source: MAFI – https://tinyurl.com/2ccdnp8h

About PLS Plantations Berhad

PLS Plantations was incorporated in Malaysia in 1987 and was listed on the Second Board of Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange in 1994. Currently listed on the Main Board of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad, PLS and its subsidiaries are involved in the management and operation of forest, oil palm and durian plantations, as well as the processing, distribution and sale of durian products.

PLS Plantations received a Silver3 rating from RAM Sustainability in April 2022, setting the baseline for the Company's sustainability journey and framework. PLS Plantations remains guided by environment, social and governance (ESG) values as they progress towards becoming the nation's leading sustainable agrofood company. https://plsplantations.my/

Forward-Looking Statements

The statement included in this press release, other than statements of historical facts, are forward- looking statements. Forward-looking statement generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "will," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "plan," "seek," or "believe." These forward-looking statements, which are subject to risks, uncertainties, and assumptions, may include projections of our future financial performance based on our growth strategies and anticipated trends in our business. These statements are only predictions based on our current expectations about future event. There are important factors that could cause our actual results, level of activity, performance, or achievements to differ materially from the results, level of activity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statement, including, but not limited to our ability to win additional business. Although we believe the expectations reflected in the forward- looking statements are reasonable, we cannot guarantee future result, level of activity, performance, or achievements. You should not rely upon forward- looking statements as predictions of future events. These forward-looking statements apply only as of the date of this press release; as such, they should not be unduly relied upon as circumstances change. Except as required by law, we are not obligated, and we undertake no obligation, to release publicly any revisions to these forward-looking statements that might reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this release or those that might reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events.

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

Lab-Grown Diamond Facility in Singapore to Commence Commercial Production

Singapore, Aug 8, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – SGX-listed Metech International Limited ("Metech" or the "Company", and together with its subsidiaries, the "Group"), is pleased to announce that the lab-grown diamond facilities in Singapore of its joint venture company, Asian Eco Technology Pte. Ltd. ("Asian Eco"), can commence commercial production, following the receipt of the fire safety certificate issued by Singapore Civil Defence Force.

A pilot test of the lab-grown diamond facilities has been successfully completed.

As announced previously, Asian Eco entered into a 3-year lease agreement for an industrial property located at Kallang for the production of lab-grown diamonds.

A wholly-owned subsidiary, Zhongxin Minghua (Shanghai) International Trade Co., Ltd. (formerly known as Nolash (Shanghai) Pte Ltd.), is now a registered member of the Shanghai Diamond Exchange with effect from 13 July 2022.

Growing Industrial Applications of Lab-Growth Diamonds

Diamonds are more widely known to be used in jewellery but diamonds are also commonly used for industrial applications in oil & gas, medical equipment, aerospace, among others.

With an impressive combination of chemical, physical and mechanical properties that are ideal for a wide array of industrial applications, there is increasing commercialisation of scientific discoveries for the industrial applications of diamond in the next generation of semiconductors, aerospace, electric vehicles, medical equipment, among others.

To harness such opportunities, Asian Eco has previously entered in various memorandum of understandings and collaboration agreements with strategic partners and prominent institutions in the areas of research and development and commercialisation.

Commenting on the commencement of Asian Eco's commercial production of lab-grown diamonds in Singapore, Ms. Samantha Hua, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Metech, said: "This is a major milestone in our business strategy, accelerating our growth ambitions within the global lab-grown diamond industry that continues to exhibit positive growth prospects with its sustainability features.

Aligned with the macro trends of the global lab-grown diamond market, we aim to progressively scale up our production capabilities in Singapore and harness new opportunities."

About Metech International Limited
(Bloomberg: CENR:SP / Reuters: METE.SI / SGX Stock Code: V3M)

Listed on the Singapore Stock Exchange, Metech International Limited ("Metech") has a multi-pronged business model that aligns with the macro trends in the area of environmental and sustainability.

While proactively evaluating new business opportunities to broaden its business model, Metech continues to build on its capabilities and extend the value propositions of its business units.

Media & Investor Contacts:
This announcement has been prepared by the Company and reviewed by the Company's Sponsor, Novus Corporate Finance Pte. Ltd. (the "Sponsor"), in compliance with Rule 226(2)(b) of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (the "SGX-ST") Listing Manual Section B: Rules of Catalist.

This announcement has not been examined or approved by the SGX-ST and the SGX-ST assumes no responsibility for the contents of this announcement, including the correctness of any of the statements or opinions made or reports contained in this announcement.

The contact person for the Sponsor is Mr. Pong Chen Yih, Chief Operating Officer, at 7 Temasek
Boulevard, #18-03B Suntec Tower 1, Singapore 038987, telephone (65) 6950 2188.

Issued on behalf of Metech International Limited by 8PR Asia Pte Ltd.
Mr. Alex TAN
Mobile: +65 9451 5252
Email: alex.tan@8prasia.com

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