Hektar REIT’s Portfolio Benefits from Retail Recovery

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 15, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Hektar Asset Management Sdn. Bhd., the Manager of Hektar Real Estate Investment Trust (Hektar REIT), today announced the third quarter results ended 30 September 2022 (3Q 2022). Hektar REIT recorded revenue of RM31.06 million, a substantial increase of 62.4% compared with RM19.12 million in the same quarter of the previous year. The higher revenue is attributed to the increased rental income, including higher turnover rent, increased car park income and higher hotel occupancy. Hektar REIT registered a net property income of RM18.31 million, an increase of 77.2% compared with RM10.33 million in 3Q 2021, while the realised net income was RM13.50 million, a notable increase of 861.8% compared with RM1.40 million for the same quarter in the preceding year.

En. Johari Shukri, CEO of Hektar Asset Management

Hektar REIT's performance for the nine months ended 30 September 2022 (9M 2022) showed an increase in revenue by 25% to RM89.55 million compared with RM71.62 million in the corresponding period of 2021. The net property income rose 40.4% to RM48.64 million in 9M 2022 compared with RM34.63 million in the same period for last year, while the realised net income grew by 256% to RM33.82 million compared with RM9.50 million.

The Malaysian retail landscape showed steady recovery as it inches back to the pre-pandemic levels, and it is evident across Hektar REIT's portfolio. The shopping malls recorded a higher footfall of 269% year-on-year (y-o-y), along with a 152% higher vehicle count y-o-y. This is in tandem with the continuous improvement in tenants' sales performance at our malls, providing headroom for rental growth.

En. Johari Shukri bin Jamil, Chief Executive Officer of Hektar Asset Management Sdn. Bhd. said: "Retail activities remained strong in the quarter under review. Recovery in consumer-related subsectors, including leisure, international tourism and hospitality, continued to aid in the overall performance of the retail industry. Hektar REIT's malls are well-positioned as neighbourhood malls and leverage the proximity to the community, catering to all their basic needs as well as an increased desire for F&B and social offerings such as entertainment options to be enjoyed together with their family & friends."

"Despite the Malaysian economy's strong performance, we remain cautious of the outlook for the coming quarters given the volatile economic landscape driven by hawkish monetary policy in response to inflationary pressure, uncertain consumer sentiments as well as lingering supply-chain and logistics issues stemming from geopolitical concerns. We will continue adopting prudent financial management, cost optimisation and enhancing our asset efficiencies to help cushion the impact."

"We are also actively exploring avenues for growth by ensuring a strong portfolio of retail brands in our malls that can optimise sustainable returns and defensible income through active tenancy remixing and rejuvenation of the centres. We will continue to look for ways to enhance and improve the look and condition of our malls as part of longer-term strategies to improve our dividend yields. To improve on revenue and debt recovery post-pandemic, our team has been consistently tracking tenants' ongoing performance to carefully structure our new tenancies and renewals, apart from aggressively looking at strategies to manage rental collection. We also remain committed to reducing our environmental footprint and increasing our responsibility towards our stakeholders by continuously undertaking several ESG initiatives because it is the right thing to do for ourselves and our communities."

Hektar REIT: http://www.hektarreit.com/

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

K. Wah Group Sponsors Hong Kong Palace Museum Volunteer Programme, Committed to Promoting Chinese Culture and Dialogue among World Civilisations

HONG KONG, Nov 15, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – K. Wah Group's member companies K. Wah International Holdings Limited ("KWIH") and LUI Che Woo Prize Limited ("LUI Chi Woo Prize") are jointly sponsoring the Hong Kong Palace Museum ("HKPM" or the "Museum") Volunteer Programme to provide various training courses and work opportunities aiming at increasing the public's appreciation for the Chinese culture, especially among the younger generation, nurturing talents for the heritage industry and arts and culture sector, and fortifying Hong Kong's status as a hub for cultural and artistic exchange between China and the rest of the world.

Ms Jessica Cheng, General Manager of LUI Che Woo Prize (4th left), and Ms Helen Cheung, General Manager of Corporate Affairs at KWIH (5th left), attend the launch ceremony of the Hong Kong Palace Museum's Volunteer Programme, and, together with Dr Louis Ng, Museum Director of the Hong Kong Palace Museum (middle), witness volunteers embarking on their mission to promote Chinese culture.

Around 500 volunteers enrolled in the first HKPM Volunteer Programme and subsequently participated in a month-long series of diverse and professional training sessions covering Chinese art and culture, culture of Forbidden City, and an introduction to exhibition and museum operations. The training sessions help them understand the rich and profound Chinese culture and develop a more in-depth understanding of the heritage industry. Having completed the training programme, the volunteers are assisting the Museum with educational activities, exhibition planning, research, artefact conservation and museum operations.

Dr Lui Che-woo, Chairman of K. Wah Group, said, "As a keen promoter of arts and culture, K. Wah Group hopes that by supporting the HKPM Volunteer Programme it can help strengthen the public appreciation of the Chinese culture, enhance awareness of China's heritage among young people and bolster their sense of national identity and belonging to the country, while also supporting Hong Kong's status as a hub for cultural exchange between China and the rest of the world." It has become increasingly common for top museums around the world to have their own volunteer programmes. In addition to providing support for a wide range of museum operations, the volunteers themselves can explore the museum from different perspectives and learn while working.

Ms Jessica Cheng, General Manager of LUI Che Woo Prize, and Ms Helen Cheung, General Manager of Corporate Affairs at KWIH attended the recent inauguration ceremony of the HKPM Volunteer Programme. Joined by Dr Louis Ng, Museum Director of the Hong Kong Palace Museum, they witnessed the volunteers embark on their mission to promote Chinese culture.

The Hong Kong Palace Museum officially opened to the public on 3 July 2022. It aims to become a world-leading cultural museum and is committed to encouraging the public to explore and appreciate Chinese art and culture, as well as working closely with major international art and cultural institutions to foster dialogues among different civilisations.

About K. Wah International Holdings Limited (stock code: 00173)
K. Wah International Holdings Limited ("KWIH"), listed in Hong Kong in 1987, is the property flagship of K. Wah Group. An integrated property developer and investor with a foothold in Hong Kong, the Yangtze River Delta and Pearl River Delta regions, KWIH encompasses a portfolio of large-scale residential communities and comprehensive development undertakings such as premium residential developments, Grade-A office towers, hotel and serviced apartments, and retail premises. Cresleigh Property, the property management arm of KWIH, delivers exceptional hotel serviced property management services guided by advanced and international standards in general to premium residential buildings, commercial facilities, office towers and real estate complexes. Driven by a keen market sense and a versatile strategy, and backed by strong financial capability, KWIH has built up a prime land reserve in major cities of China, and thus a strong foothold for future growth.
KWIH is a constituent stock of the Hang Seng Composite SmallCap Index, MSCI Hong Kong Small Cap Index and Hang Seng Stock Connect Greater Bay Area Composite Index as well as an eligible stock under the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Stock Connect programme. KWIH held a 3.73% stake in Galaxy Entertainment Group Limited (stock code: 00027) as of 30 June 2021.Website: http://www.kwih.com

About LUI Chi Woo Prize
Founded by Dr. Lui Che-woo in 2015, the "LUI Che Woo Prize – Prize for World Civilisation" is an annual, first of its kind international cross-sector innovative award for advancing world civilisation and inspiring people to build a more harmonious world. It aims to recognise and honour individuals or organisations all over the world for outstanding contributions and encourages the continuation of that work in three objectives: sustainable development of the world, betterment of the welfare of mankind and promotion of positive life attitude and enhancement of positive energy.

Each awardee will receive a cash award of HK$20 million (equivalent to approximately US$2.56 million), a certificate and a trophy. Each Prize is awarded to a single recipient (i.e. no sharing of a Prize) who can be an individual or an organisation.

LUI Che Woo Prize Limited is a company limited by guarantee incorporated in Hong Kong and is responsible for administration and management of "LUI Che Woo Prize".

For more details, please go to www.luiprize.org.

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

WIKA Achieves Rp865 Billion Operating Income

JAKARTA, Nov 15, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – PT WIJAYA KARYA (Persero) Tbk. [IDX: WIKA] successfully booked an operating income of Rp865.5 billion or 29.7% higher on a year-on-year basis (YoY) as recorded in the financial statement for the period ended on 30 September 2022. This figure reflected WIKA's success in recording sales of Rp12.8 trillion or 9.8% higher YoY.

WIKA's President Director, Agung Budi Waskito (Agung BW), said that the largest contributors to WIKA's sales performance were the infrastructure and building sector, industry sector, energy and industrial plant sector, and the realty and property sector.

"This achievement shows that the strategy implemented to strengthen the core business has proven successful to improve WIKA's profitability," said Agung BW.

One of WIKA's achievements in strengthening its core business was proven by WIKA's ability to complete the G20 supporting projects, such as the revitalisation of the VVIP Terminal of Halim Perdanakusuma Airport in Jakarta and the VVIP Terminal of I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali. The quality of these projects has received a lot of praise from the ministers.

The success in carrying out the two projects helped the Company to secure the contract for the development of Hang Nadim International Airport, Batam.

Going forward, Agung BW believes that WIKA will be able to sustainably strengthen its core business by improving governance, risk management, marketing, and operations while being consistent in preserving the quality of the projects entrusted to the Company.

As at October 2022, WIKA has secured new contracts worth Rp25.5 trillion, which include several projects for the new capital city (Ibu Kota Negara, "IKN"). WIKA has secured projects to construct the KKT Kariangau – Simpang Tempadung toll road segment. Under the WIKA Gedung Joint Operation (Kerjasama Operasional, "KSO"), the Company secured the project to construct modular buildings to house workers. In addition, WIKA together with PTPP KSO managed to secure contracts for the construction of the Presidential Palace and Presidential Office. In total, new contracts from IKN projects was worth Rp2.3 trillion.

"WIKA has experience in carrying out various projects in Kalimantan, such as water infrastructures, bridges, toll roads, buildings, and the supply chain supporting these projects. WIKA's capacity to work on these projects is without doubt," Agung BW explained.

In addition to the IKN projects, WIKA has secured contracts for the Vertical Hospital in East Java, duplication of Kapuas Bridge in Central Kalimantan, and construction of the Juwana River Rubber Dam in Central Java.

PT WIJAYA KARYA (Persero) Tbk. [IDX: WIKA]

Contact:
Mahendra Vijaya
Sekretaris Perusahaan
Email: mahendra.v@wikamail.id
Website: https://www.wika.co.id/

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

The 12th Asian Logistics, Maritime and Aviation Conference takes place on 22 and 23 November

HONG KONG, Nov 14, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – The 12th edition of the Asian Logistics, Maritime and Aviation Conference (ALMAC), jointly organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), will be held on 22 and 23 November at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) in person as well as online. ALMAC is one of a number of large-scale trade events organised by the HKTDC in Hong Kong in the past few months. This year's ALMAC is expected to attract over 14,000 participants from over 50 countries and regions.

Wilkie Wong, CFO, Esquel Group; Frankie Yick, Chairman, HKTDC Logistics Services Advisory Committee and Legislative Councillor, Legislative Council; Dr Patrick Lau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director; and James Leung, VP and Key Account, Geek+ [L-R]

Under the theme, "The Future of the Sustainable Supply Chain: Connectivity – Collaboration – Innovation", ALMAC will examine issues faced by global businesses, such as the new normal supply chain, current challenges, opportunities through international and regional collaboration and future direction of sustainable development.

ALMAC brings together participants from logistics, maritime, air freight and supply chain management sectors to gain insights, exchange market intelligence and explore business opportunities. In addition to the main physical event in Hong Kong, ALMAC will organise satellite conference venues in various locations, including Chengdu, Chongqing, Fuzhou, Wuhan, Taiwan, France, Germany, United Kingdom and Hungary. In addition to running a live broadcast of the conference, some satellite venues will invite experts to address logistics issues and experiences from a local perspective and participate in face-to-face exchanges.

"The macroeconomic environment has been very turbulent, due to a series of factors from inflation, aggressive rate hike and currency fluctuation to geopolitical tensions and energy and food crisis. Against all these uncertainties, this year's ALMAC will focus on how businesses can work together to cope with the challenges in the supply chain, climate change and the economic recovery. Other areas of discussion will include the opportunities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the innovative solutions and technologies that are driving advancements in modern logistics and smart supply chain development. ALMAC is a powerful platform to connect the global industry and I would encourage all shippers, including traders, exporters and manufacturers, to join the conference to understand the issues faced by the industry and capture new opportunities," said Dr Patrick Lau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director.

Exploring the current business landscape

Around 80 industry experts in logistics, maritime, air freight and supply chain will speak in person or virtually. On day one, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Chief Executive John Lee will deliver remarks, followed by a keynote address by Xiangchen Zhang, Deputy-Director General of the World Trade Organization, who will examine how governments and businesses in the international arena may join forces to mitigate the impact of supply chain disruption; the climate change crisis on global trade; and the post-pandemic economic recovery, while fostering greater economic inclusion for equitable growth and stabilising the international supply chain towards achieving sustainable development.

At the Plenary Session, ALMAC will invite global business leaders, including Mathieu Renard Biron, Managing Director of Global Freight Forwarding of Kerry Logistics, Ludovic Renou, CEO of CMA CGM China and Wilkie Wong, Chief Financial Officer of Esquel Group, to speak on how business evolution and supply chain transformation can steer business growth and achieve sustainable development across the current economic landscape building connectivity, fostering collaboration and driving innovation in the vibrant business environment, in order to navigate the new normal.

In the Power Dialogue on day one, titled "Asia for Asia – Powering the Growth of Supply Chain Networks", Kian Chuan Chang, Regional Director, Customs Brokerage & Trade Compliance of GEODIS APAC (Holdings) Pte. Ltd., Wingco Lo, Executive Vice President of the Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong, Daryl Tay, President, North Asia District of UPS Parcel Delivery Service Limited, and Eva Tsang, Assistant Vice President and Executive Director of Opal Cosmetics Group Limited, will discuss how RCEP creates opportunities through integration of regional trade and supply chains and share their strategic plans for capturing future opportunities.

In the Thematic Session, Terence Chiu, Commissioner of the Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation, together with Ivy Tse, Co-Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of FreightAmigo, will share their insights on business strategies for the GBA, and how to capture the business opportunities created by supply chain integration in the GBA. The talk will provide workable insights and practical solutions for SMEs that want to expand markets in the area.

InnoTalks to explore smart tech in the supply chain

Technology advancements are not constrained by geographic boundaries and changes how companies operate and reshape the future of the logistics industry. James Leung, Vice President and Key Account of Geek+, Tim Liu, Vice President, Marketing of Neolix Technologies Co., Ltd. and Julian Ma, Founder and CEO of Inceptio Technology will share game-changing innovative solutions and technologies that are driving advancements in modern logistics and smart supply chain development, helping companies to stay ahead of shifting consumer demands and expectations.

Air Freight Forum to discuss Hong Kong as an international aviation hub in the post-pandemic era

The Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) is one of the busiest and most advanced airports and continues to consolidate its status as an international aviation hub. In 2021, HKIA handled five million tons of cargo and retained its position as the world's busiest cargo airport for 10 consecutive years.

On the first day of the Conference, the Air Freight Forum, co-organised with the Airport Authority Hong Kong, will invite Marco Bloemen, Managing Director of Seabury Cargo, Samuel Lee, General Manager of DHL Express Central Asia Hub and Yin Daxue, CEO of Hong Kong Cingleot Investment Management Limited, to discuss HKIA's "Airport City" vision covering the third runway, express air cargo terminal expansion, the new premium logistics centre, staff training strategies and the synergy created by HKIA and the airports in Mainland China.

Maritime Forum to examine the GBA and sustainable development

Edward Liu, Partner of Haiwen & Partners LLP and Principal Representative of International Chamber of Shipping (China) Liaison Office, will examine Hong Kong's unique role as an international maritime hub. The global maritime industry is transitioning and there is an urgency to identify tangible action plans for sustainable development to achieve the International Maritime Organisation's 2050 greenhouse gas reduction target.

The second Maritime Forum will invite Simon Bennett, Deputy Secretary General of International Chamber of Shipping, Anne-Sophie Zerlang Karlsen, Head of Ocean Operations, Asia Pacific of Maersk, Michael Karlsen, CEO of Onomondo and Michael Fitzgerald, Group Deputy Chief Financial Officer of Orient Overseas Container Line Ltd, to discuss shipping sustainability, decarbonisation and digitalisation through practical collaborative action and uncover the potential opportunities and benefits from switching to sustainable and digitalised shipping.

Leading e-commerce marketplace to share success story

The rise of e-commerce has led to several challenges for online retailers and warehouses, as companies and customers look for a transparent, cost-effective, flexible, omnichannel fulfilment that can meet their respective demands.

The newly added Shippers' Forum will be held on the second day (23 November) with Jenny Hui, General Manager of eBay Hong Kong, Taiwan and Global Emerging Markets sharing the latest fulfilment trends and best practices for delivering reliable and agile fulfilment solutions that shape the future development of e-commerce.

Major global business trend creating smart and sustainable supply chain

Sustainability is a popular topic on the world's supply chain agenda. In the Power Dialogue, Suzanne Cheung, Head of Public Affairs, Communications and Sustainability of Swire Coca-Cola Hong Kong, will share best practices of and carbon reduction approaches to integrating sustainability with the corporate core values and supply chain management for driving business growth and co-creating sustainable global development.

HKTDC has organised two Supply Chain Management & Logistics Forums with The Hong Kong Shippers' Council and GS1 Hong Kong, respectively. For Supply Chain Management & Logistics Forums I, industry experts Lyan Law, Head, Industry 4.0 and Industrial Drone Solution of the Hong Kong Productivity Council, Felix Wong, Sales Director of Acquaintance Enterprises Limited, will share smart and agile supply chains through innovations. For the Supply Chain Management & Logistics Forums II, Ben Au, General Manager of Empower SCM Ltd., Johnny Wong, Director, Supply Chain Asia Pacific of Bausch & Lomb HK Limited and Rick Woo, Co-founder of LOST, will talk about smart and innovative supply chains and operational strategy transformation from an omnichannel model to a meta-channel model.

In the Closing Session, Chee Choong Ng, Senior Vice President & Managing DirectorHong Kong & Macau, DHL Express (Hong Kong) Limited, Fox Chu, Partner of McKinsey, John Parkes, Managing Director – Integrated Logistics of Kerry Logistics and Graziano Terenzi, CEO of Inglobe Technologies, will discuss the metaverse and how the logistics industry can make use of robotics, extended reality, augmented reality and other technologies to drive industry development.

During ALMAC 2022, the discussions are complemented by an exhibition featuring over 50 exhibitors showcasing logistics and supply chain solutions, innovative technology and operating systems, which help SMEs enhance their global supply chain management. The HKTDC will be arranging business matching sessions for participants to drive more business cooperation.

The forums will gather many notable speakers, including: (the sequence is sorted alphabetically by the speakers' surnames)

– Simon Bennett, Deputy Secretary General, International Chamber of Shipping
– Edward Liu, MH, Partner, Haiwen & Partners LLP., Principal Representative, International Chamber of Shipping (China) Liaison Office
– Mathieu Renard Biron, Managing Director – Global Freight Forwarding, Kerry Logistics
– Chee Choong Ng, Senior Vice President & Managing Director, Hong Kong & Macau, DHL Express (Hong Kong) Limited
– Terence Chiu, Commissioner, Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation
– Daryl Tay, President, North Asia District, UPS Parcel Delivery Service Limited
– Ludovic Renou, Chief Executive Officer, CMA CGM China
– Eva Tsang, Assistant Vice President and Executive Director, Opal Cosmetics Group Limited
– Jenny Hui, General Manager, eBay Hong Kong, Taiwan and Global Emerging Markets
– Ivy Tse, Co-Chief Executive Officer & Co-founder, FreightAmigo
– Anne-Sophie Zerlang Karlsen, Head of Ocean Operations, Asia Pacific, Maersk
– Wilkie Wong, Chief Financial Officer, Esquel Group
– James Leung, Vice President, Key Account, Geek+
– Xiangchen Zhang, Deputy-Director General, World Trade Organization
– Mr Michael Fitzgerald, Group Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Orient Overseas Container Line Ltd

Members of the media wishing to interview speakers can email interview requests to raymond.lee@impact-cc.com or cindy.chung@impact-cc.com by 18 November 2022. For the latest programme and speaker list, please visit: https://www.almac.hk/main/en/.

Photo download: https://bit.ly/3hEFnem

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 Impact Communications Company:
Cindy Chung, Tel: +852 9166 0827, Email: cindy.chung@impact-cc.com
Raymond Lee, Tel: +852 6539 4089, Email: raymond.lee@impact-cc.com

HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Clayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.org
Clementine Cheung, Tel: +852 2584 4514, Email: clementine.hm.cheung@hktdc.org
Sam Ho, Tel: +852 2584 4569, Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.org

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

Healthcare and Medical Leaders Gather to Shape the Future of Global Health

HONG KONG, Nov 11, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – New research and innovations in Hong Kong and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) are injecting new momentum and creating new opportunities for the regional and global healthcare and medical sectors, as highlighted in the two-day Asia Summit on Global Health (ASGH). The second ASGH and the physical element of the 13th edition of the HKTDC Hong Kong International Healthcare Fair concluded successfully today.

The second Asia Summit on Global Health, co-organised by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government and HKTDC, and the physical part of the 13th HKTDC Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair conclude successfully today.

Kenneth Tsang, CEO of Gleneagles Hospital Hong Kong and Kyle Wong, PanopticAI CEO & Cofounder (R) signed a MOU on digital healthcare solution improvement on the first day of the Summit, witnessed by Patrick Lau, HKTDC Deputy Executive Director (L).

As the flagship events of the first International Healthcare Week initiated by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the summit and fair attracted close to 30,000 online and physical participants from 68 countries and regions. More than 280 one-on-one Deal Flow Matchmaking sessions and 600 business meetings have also been arranged to assist participants in seizing business possibilities. Riding on this year's success, the HKTDC plans to expand International Healthcare Week in May 2023. In addition to forums and exhibitions, it plans to include more healthcare and medical-related activities to strengthen Hong Kong's position as a leading hub in this globally important industry.

Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC, said, "The importance of the medical and healthcare sector to the global economy cannot be overstated, especially during the past three years. As markets across the world gradually recover from the fallout of the pandemic, the health crisis needs to be tackled in tandem. This can only be achieved through collaboration. The pandemic knows no borders and collaboration should not either. It is vital that diverse sectors and players come together and share insights and practical solutions to ensure better efficiency and sustainability in healthcare for the world."

Shaping the Future of Global Health

The ASGH is co-organised by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the HKTDC to help the industry build connections, create business opportunities and highlight the advantages of Hong Kong's healthcare and medical industries in scientific research, investment and financing as well as its trading platforms.

The Summit featured more than 80 speakers, including healthcare officials and members from international organisations, scientists and medical experts, investors, business leaders, financial specialists and service providers. They shared their insights on a wide range of topics, ranging from healthcare development in Mainland China, the challenges of Ebola and COVID-19, the impact of GBA's innovation and the role of Hong Kong as both a fundraising and innovation hub. Participants also were given updates about new trends, such as the application of robotics and ethics of artificial intelligence (AI), ESG in healthcare and global challenge of mental health.

At the fireside chat on the first day of the summit, Prof Peter Piot, Chief Scientific Advisor Epidemics and Special Advisor to the President of the European Commission and co-discoverer of the Ebola virus in 1976, shared his views on the challenges in creating a more sustainable future for global health and Asia's contribution to global health in the years to come.

Prof Piot said: "COVID has definitely been a wake-up call to the importance of developing a sustainable and equitable healthcare system. The reality is that we are very likely entering an era of pandemics, and we must be better prepared. We must also assist the least developed countries, such as [those in] Africa and Southeast Asia, in manufacturing vaccines and other essential medications and developing the infrastructure they need to be ready for the next pandemic. I see this as a collective effort that would benefit the whole world; and everyone, including governments, businesses, civil society and individuals, should contribute in their own way."

Bring New Perspectives to Universal Issues

On the first day of the Summit, Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau remarked during the panel discussion titled "The Next Development of China's Healthcare Sector" that China had made remarkable progress in healthcare, especially in transforming treatment-oriented and hospital-based services to community-based services. Dr Donald Li, Chairman of the Elderly Commission who chaired the panel, said the high demand for healthcare services in the GBA has created many new opportunities for business and healthcare professionals.

Addressing the audience of a panel discussion titled "How Innovation in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Area Reshapes Global Healthcare", speakers shared that the GBA, Shenzhen in particular, would be a new base for innovation and research amid the boom of university lab research in the city.

Prof Michael Marmot, Director of the Institute of Health Equity of Department of Epidemiology and Public Health at University College London, pointed out at the thematic session titled "Adding Health to ESG: How Can Businesses Impact Health Equity?" that contribution of business and industry to healthcare was crucial. "This is because they have the capacity to improve the health and well-being of employees and customers through goods and services, whilst also making a positive impact on the communities they serve."

Deal Flow Matchmarking to Facilitate Exchange and Collaboration

The Deal Flow Matchmaking on the first day connected funders from around the world with projects encompassing life sciences, medical apparatus and medicine, digital health, community health and more, with a total of 280 one-on-one meetings scheduled, of which 156 were successfully held on-site.

The hybrid InnoHealth Showcase and exhibition area featured more than 180 projects and solutions from healthcare-related innovative technology enterprises, connecting them with investors around the world as well as potential business partners. A number of biotechnology and healthcare start-ups also took advantage of the Business of Healthcare Advisory Zone, receiving a full range of professional advice from investors and industry experts.

PanopticAI, one of the winners of HKTDC's Start-up Express 2021, was one example of successful business matching at the Summit. The company uses patented AI and algorithm to instantly obtain health data, such as heart rate, breathing rate, blood pressure and stress index of subjects through ordinary lenses. They attended ASGH in the hope to expand to the GBA and Southeast Asia. With the support of the HKTDC, PanopticAI signed an MOU with Gleneagles Hospital Hong Kong on the first day of the Summit to further apply its research results in Hong Kong hospitals to help more people in needed.

Dr Yuanyuan Yu, Assistant Professor at the School of Chinese Medicine of Hong Kong Baptist University commended the Summit's vibrant atmosphere and she was impressed by the synergy International Healthcare Week provided. The university delegation was able to meet with a lot of potential investors, business partners and academia collaborators and they anticipate further project discussions.

Medical Fair Provides One-stop Platform for Industry Buyers and Professionals

The 13th Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair adopted the HKTDC's new EXHIBITION+ hybrid model. Its three-day physical exhibition came to a successful close today, while the Click2Match platform that provides smart business matching to help build connections between exhibitors, buyers and industry professionals worldwide will remain active until 18 November.

The fair brought together more than 300 exhibitors from different countries and regions to feature a range of the latest medical technologies and equipment, healthcare and beauty products, healthcare solutions and related services, drawing many buyers and industry professionals to source both on-site and online.

Kenny Lam, Sales Manager of SWS Limited, a local exhibitor that offers textile management solutions for smart hospitals, said the Medical Fair provided a valuable platform for the company to showcase its automated uniform dispensing unit and respond to buyers' enquiries. He added: "Government officials and buyers from public and private hospitals are very interested in this system after watching our on-site demonstrations. Their feedback is overwhelming!" Additionally, they said they would support this kind of locally invented systems.

Ketkanok Sasibavronyod, Senior Business Development Manager of Thailand's leading medical device distributor BJC Healthcare Company Limited, travelled to Hong Kong for the Medical Fair to source telemedicine solutions, wearables for health monitoring, medical equipment and elderly care products. She stated: "HKTDC's Click2Match smart business matching service is very useful. Thanks to it, I found and scheduled to meet in-person with two potential suppliers of elderly care equipment, VR training solutions for elderly rehabilitation and VR therapy solutions. The fair is a good place for me to see new trends in medical equipment too!"

The Medical Fair is co-organised by the Hong Kong Medical and Healthcare Device Industries Association (HKMHDIA). During the show, more than 10 content-rich events were held, including the highlighted HKMHDIA MedTech Forum 2022, with industry professionals keen to participate. Industry players can watch videos of the forum through the fair website.

In addition to the two highlight events, the first International Healthcare Week also featured other related events, including the Gerontech and Innovation Expo cum Summit 2022, the Hong Kong Urological Association 27th Annual Scientific Meeting and the Hong Kong International Optometric Symposium.

Websites
– International Healthcare Week: https://internationalhealthcareweek.hktdc.com/en
– Asia Summit On Global Health: https://www.asiasummitglobalhealth.com/conference/asgh/en
– Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkmedicalfair/en
– Photo download: https://bit.ly/3UwJjMI

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 enquiries please contact:

Asia Summit on Global Health
Yuan Tung Financial Relations:
Agnes Yiu, Tel: +852 3428 5690, Email: ayiu@yuantung.com.hk
Fung Wong, Tel: +852 3428 3122, Email: hfwong@yuantung.com.hk

HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Janet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.org
Sam Ho, Tel: +852 2584 4569, Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.org

Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair
HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Frankie Leung, Tel: +852 2584 4298, Email: frankie.cy.leung@hktdc.org

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

Spotlight on Healthcare Collaboration and Innovation at Asia Summit on Global Health and HK International Medical and Healthcare Fair

HONG KONG, Nov 10, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Global healthcare collaboration and innovation are key themes of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC)'s inaugural International Healthcare Week, currently taking place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The week is comprised of two anchor events: the second Asia Summit on Global Health (ASGH), co-organised with the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the 13th Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair.

The second Asia Summit on Global Health, co-organised by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and the HKTDC, runs under the theme "Charting a New Course in Healthcare through Collaboration" today and tomorrow.

Dr Zsuzsanna Jakab, Deputy Director-General of the World Health Organization

Cao Xuetao, Vice-Minister of the National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China

The two-day summit kicks off today in hybrid format under the theme of "Charting a New Course in Healthcare through Collaboration", with the second day going online. The 13th International Medical and Healthcare Fair from 9 to 11 November features more than 300 exhibitors showcasing their latest products and developments and brings together industry professionals, institutions and the research and development community. The two concurrent events are catered towards both the upstream and downstream healthcare industries and together create synergies and opportunities for medical and healthcare industry professionals as well as businesses and investors.

As healthcare and the life sciences grow in importance globally, ASGH has brought together more than 80 speakers, including global business leaders and healthcare investors, science and medical experts, healthcare officials, financial specialists and professional service providers to discuss the latest trends and developments in the healthcare and medical fields. Topics covered include business opportunities and challenges for the global healthcare industry, Asia's transformational landscape in healthcare, Hong Kong's strengths in innovation and fundraising for global health as well as how the city facilitates global collaboration through partnerships to tap the opportunities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and beyond.

John Lee, Hong Kong SAR (HKSAR) Chief Executive, spoke at the summit's opening ceremony this morning, along with Margaret Fong, Executive Director of the HKTDC, Zsuzsanna Jakab, Deputy Director-General of World Health Organization (WHO); and Cao Xuetao, Vice-Minister of the National Health Commission of the People's Republic of China. In her welcome remarks, Margaret Fong said: "The pandemic catalysed collaboration. We need to continue this momentum to pave the way to new prospects. These prospects can be found in Asia, the world's fastest-growing healthcare market. Hong Kong as a global financial, business and investment hub and gateway to Mainland China and Asia markets is the ideal base for international companies to seize new opportunities. It is the place to do business and the perfect location for International Healthcare Week."

Addressing ASGH participants at the opening session, John Lee said: "Since taking office in July, my team and I have made substantive progress in lifting restrictions, while containing the number of confirmed cases and protecting the healthcare system and our high-risk population. We are working on specific and dedicated plans to ensure major events and economic activities can be held smoothly, to open up Hong Kong – to bring a world of business back to Hong Kong – as quickly, and as safely, as we can. This Summit, as well as last week's Global Financial Leaders' Investment Summit and Fintech Week, are welcome examples."

Zsuzsanna Jakab added: "As COVID-19 has made clear, health, people's lives and the broader well-being of society are inextricably linked. Yet, COVID-19 has also exposed glaring global inequities. We have an opportunity, indeed an obligation, to learn from this pandemic and accelerate progress towards ensuring that more people benefit from universal health coverage, are protected from health emergencies and enjoy better health and well-being. The WHO will help countries connect and collaborate so that they can work as one team. We will make the greatest impact by working together."

Cao Xuetao stated: "The National Health Commission will be actively supporting Hong Kong in three key areas: persevering in its control of the pandemic; strengthening Hong Kong's medical exchange and integration with the rest of the country; and giving full play to Hong Kong's healthcare talent and resources, which would allow it to participate in important national initiatives and make greater contributions to the work involved in connecting the country to the world and achieving the health goals of the UN's 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development."

Industry leaders share insights on latest healthcare and medical developments

To address the global impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and help prepare for future healthcare, economic and environmental challenges, this morning's ASGH plenary session "Charting a New Course in Healthcare through Collaboration" invited heavyweight speakers, including Ulrich Betz, Senior Vice President Innovation at Merck; Ruilin Song, Executive President of the China Pharmaceutical Innovation and Research Development Association; Luhan Yang, Co-Founder and CEO of Qihan Biotechnology; and Alex Zhavoronkov, Founder and CEO of Insilico Medicine. They examined the latest trends in the healthcare and medical sectors and the urgent need for global collaboration to strengthen healthcare cooperation for a sustainable future.

A panel discussion titled "The Next Development in China's Healthcare Sector" was held on the first day, with Lo Chung-mau, Secretary for Health of the HKSAR, sharing his views on Hong Kong's role as a strategic conduit connecting Mainland China and the world in the healthcare arena. Additionally, Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR, delivered special remarks, sharing his valuable insights in a session titled "How Innovation in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Reshapes Global Healthcare". Peter Piot joined the summit and shared his expert perspective on how the world deals with healthcare challenges from Ebola to COVID-19. He is European Union (EU) Chief Scientific Adviser Epidemics and Special Adviser to the European Commission President and former Director and Handa Professor of Global Health of the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine. In addition, the HKTDC and Haitong International published a joint research report on the future of the healthcare industry in Hong Kong and Mainland China.

A plethora of online sessions will be staged tomorrow, covering important topics, such as preparedness for epidemic viruses, health equity, opportunities in the Asia market, the outlook for the biotech industry and medical robotic development. A number of industry leaders and experts have been invited to share their expertise at the summit.

Holistic platform for project owners and potential investors

Following the success of last year's inaugural ASGH, a series of deal-sourcing and matchmaking sessions are taking place to meet the business matching needs of project owners and investors and generate new business opportunities. The exhibition area at ASGH included more than 180 exhibitors, including health innovation and technology companies, research and development institutions, incubation centres and more.

More than 110 start-ups and projects are on view at the InnoHealth Showcase on-site. Live pitching sessions were organised where start-ups presented their innovations in transforming global healthcare and connected with potential investors and business partners for new business opportunities. Private equity and venture capital investors, family offices and high-net-worth individuals joined one-on-one online-to-offline meetings with project owners from around the world through ASGH Deal Flow Matchmaking. The summit also featured the Business of Healthcare Advisory Zone that provides a full range of advisory services to start-ups.

Meanwhile, the 13th International Medical and Healthcare Fair featured the latest medical technologies and devices, healthcare and beauty products and related solutions and services.

Themed zones showcase latest medical products and solutions

The HKTDC Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair, co-organised with the Hong Kong Medical and Healthcare Device Industries Association (HKMHDIA), attracted more than 300 exhibitors from Hong Kong and different countries and regions, including seven local universities and pavilions formed by the HKMHDIA, the Hong Kong China Federation of Bodybuilding & Fitness and the Zhejiang Provincial Committee of the China Council for the Promotion of International Trade. The fair is held in hybrid format under the HKTDC's new EXHIBITION+ model. The physical show opened yesterday at the HKCEC and runs until 11 November, while exhibitors and buyers across the world can also connect through the smart business-matching platform Click2Match until 18 November.

Under the theme of "Decoding MedTech Trends", the event features various zones, such as Biotechnology, Hospital Equipment, Rehabilitation and Elderly Care Product and World of Health and Wellness, alongside the Startup Zone. Exhibitors presented a wide array of products that highlight the latest medical trends and market demands, such as the ultrasonic Inofab Spiroclinic Pro – IoT Spirometer; the POD Telemedicine Health Checkup Station and a host of other products. Meanwhile, 24 start-up companies are displaying their accomplishments and solutions in the field of medical technology.

The HKMHDIA MedTech Forum 2022 was held yesterday under the theme "Opportunities in the Greater Bay Area". Experts and representatives from the Department of Health of the HKSAR, the Department of Commerce of Guangdong Province, Johnson & Johnson, Konica Minolta and The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, among others, discussed topics, such as market opportunities for medical technologies in the GBA and innovative medical technologies. Industry professionals can watch videos of the events through the fair website ( https://bit.ly/3DNBBXy ). Also, seminars and workshops for industry players are being organised during the fair by the Hong Kong Doctors Union, the Golden Age Foundation and the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks.

The HKTDC has implemented its new EXHIBITION+ model to run the Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair. EXHIBITION+ comprises four key exhibition elements, including the physical fair, the smart business-matching platform Click2Match, online-to-offline seminars under the Intelligence Hub and the hktdc.com Sourcing platform, extending face-to-face interactions from physical exhibitions to an online smart business-matching platform to help enterprises connect with business partners proactively.

Websites
– International Healthcare Week: https://internationalhealthcareweek.hktdc.com/en
– Asia Summit On Global Health: https://www.asiasummitglobalhealth.com/conference/asgh/en
– Programme: https://www.asiasummitglobalhealth.com/conference/asgh/en/programme
– Speakers: https://www.asiasummitglobalhealth.com/conference/asgh/en/speaker
– Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair: https://www.hktdc.com/event/hkmedicalfair/en
– Interesting Product List: https://bit.ly/3DOhppL
– Activity Schedule: https://bit.ly/3DehRvF
– Photo download: https://bit.ly/3A20Ow6

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 enquiries please contact:

Asia Summit on Global Health
Yuan Tung Financial Relations:
Agnes Yiu, Tel: +852 3428 5690, Email: ayiu@yuantung.com.hk
Fung Wong, Tel: +852 3428 3122, Email: hfwong@yuantung.com.hk

HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Janet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.org
Sam Ho, Tel: +852 2584 4569, Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.org

Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair
HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Frankie Leung, Tel: +852 2584 4298, Email: frankie.cy.leung@hktdc.org

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

Bintai Kinden Ventures into Telco through Agreement with MN Permai Netcom

PETALING JAYA, Malaysia, Nov 10, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Bintai Kinden Corporation Berhad (Bursa: BINTAI, 6998), a mechanical and electrical (M&E) engineering services specialist, today announced that the Company's wholly-owned sub-subsidiary, Johnson Medical International Sdn. Bhd. (JMI), has formalised a strategic venture with MN Permai Netcom Sdn. Bhd. (MNP) for the sales, marketing and installation of telecommunication services to healthcare centres and other medical sites governed by the Ministry of Health of Malaysia (MOH) under JMI's portfolio.

Azri Azerai, Executive Director of Bintai Kinden

JMI is specialised in healthcare solutions and medical support systems while MNP is an end-to-end telecommunications solutions provider covering smart fiber-to-the-home, smart cloud solutions, broadband, 3G as well as 4G/5G offload, smart poles and business cloud solutions, among others.

Under the agreement, JMI will market telecommunication services to the MOH or any private hospital provided by MNP, which will be involved in sales as well as the installation of the services.

Services provided by MNP include managing the backhaul network; supplying and installing access network equipment; interconnection with third parties; designing the interconnection and backhaul network infrastructure; designing infrastructure access network; maintaining the access network; supplying and installing technical-based on-site requirements and; providing maintenance services.

Azri Azerai, Executive Director of Bintai Kinden (Download) Azri Azerai, Executive Director of Bintai Kinden said, "This agreement leverages on the strengths of both parties. JMI has a network of hospital contacts with a solid presence in Malaysia and understand the needs of hospitals and people who work in them. We listen to our customers and want to provide them with services or products that solves their problems or fulfil their needs. The telecommunications services offered by MNP enables faster data transfer speed as well as application performance, faster streaming of videos, reduces buffering, increases data transfer capability and enables interactivity."

Malik Faizal Bakar, Managing Director of MNP said, "We look forward to working with JMI to provide telecommunications infrastructure and services to hospitals. Ever since our establishment in 2014, we have expanded to become a provider of comprehensive services ranging from planning, building, operating and optimising networks including inside plant solutions, outside plant solutions and technical support. We also have the expertise in managing large telco infrastructure projects as we were awarded a 120-km fiber optic project in Penang."

Bintai Kinden Corporation Berhad: 6998 [BURSA: BKC], http://bintai.com.my/

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

Society Pass Appoints Management Team for Nusatrip; Unveils New Nusatrip Logo, Features on Website/App and Plans for Society Pass’ Customer-Centric Digital Ecosystem and Loyalty Platform for Indonesia and in Southeast Asia

JAKARTA, Nov 9, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Society Pass Incorporated ("SoPa") (Nasdaq: SOPA), Southeast Asia's ("SEA") leading data-driven fintech and e-commerce ecosystem, today introduces the new Nusatrip CEO and announces its strategic plans moving forward, expanding Nusatrip business coverage throughout SEA. The recent acquisition of Nusatrip International Pte Ltd ("Nusatrip"), a Indonesia-based pioneer in the Online Travel Agent ("OTA") sector, extends Society Pass' reach into the booming SEA regional travel industry with a strong commitment to developing a vibrant online travel platform for both merchants and consumers in SEA.

Society Pass executives announces the appointment of Nusatrip's new CEO, Johanes (Joe) Chang, welcoming Nusatrip into Society Pass' growing ecosystem of technology enabled companies, joining the Society Pass team in its brand new Indonesia office in Jakarta and unveiling Nusatrip's new logo and features for its website and app. Dennis Nguyen, Society Pass Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, explains, "We are happy to announce the opening of Society Pass' and Nusatrip's Indonesia office as one of our important milestones in synergistically growing the OTA business within the Society Pass e-commerce ecosystem and loyalty platform. With his many years of experience in managing travel and technology companies, Joe will immensely contribute and drive Nusatrip to greater heights in the years ahead."

Society Pass steps into the Indonesia market with a big agenda; to strengthen its position as the pioneer of the next-generation digital ecosystem and loyalty platform in Indonesia and throughout SEA. SoPa looks to acquire attractively valued companies in SEA to join its next generation digital ecosystem with key focuses on loyalty, lifestyle, F&B delivery, telecommunications, digital media, and travel.

Patrick Soetanto, Society Pass Indonesia Country Manager, adds, "Jo will drive our journey in generating new revenue streams by integrating Nusatrip's robust technology and operational efficiency of its leading e-commerce travel platform into our ecosystem. We are reenergizing the OTA business in Indonesia and throughout SEA, to meet the increasing demand of pre-pandemic travel in the regions. More importantly, both Society Pass and Nusatrip aim to boost the travel and digital economy sectors in Indonesia."

Johanes (Jo) Chang, CEO, Nusatrip elaborates, "I would like to thank both Messrs. Nguyen and Soetanto for placing their trust in me to lead Nusatrip and am honored to take on the position as Nusatrip's new CEO. By integrating into the Society Pass fintech and e-commerce ecosystem, Nusatrip embarks on regional expansion and unlimited avenues to grow more channels and revenue streams. With strong support from Society Pass and partners, we are gearing up towards the recovery of the travel industry in Indonesia and SEA in 2023 and 2024."

Jo adds, "Nusatrip's mission is to become a world-class OTA and the most reliable partner for airlines and hotels, offering wide range of travel and tourism related products, services, and experiences to our customers and business partners globally. With our industry recovering from the pandemic, we will continue working within our digital ecosystem and loyalty platform to offer better travel products and services for our customers across SEA."

About Society Pass Inc

Founded in 2018 as a data-driven loyalty, fintech and e-commerce 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, Society Pass Incorporated (Nasdaq: SOPA) is an acquisition-focused 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 signature Society Pass fintech 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 on Society Pass, please check out:
Website at https://www.thesocietypass.com or
LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/societypass or
Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/thesocietypass or
Twitter at https://twitter.com/society_pass or
Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/societypass/.

About Nusatrip

Founded in 2013, NusaTrip is an IATA licensed online travel agency that serves both local and global customers and partners by optimizing cutting-edge technology and providing quality customer-centric support team-as-a-service. In 2022, NusaTrip has officially joined the Society Pass (Nasdaq: SoPa) ecosystem, with headquarters in Jakarta and representative offices in Singapore, Vietnam, Philippines and Thailand. For more information, please check out: https://www.nusatrip.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

Digital Treasures Center Trailblazing in Physical Cryptocurrency Transactions

Launches first POS machine for crypto transactions in Singapore

Singapore, Nov 9, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Digital Treasures Center (DTC), a web2.0 and web3.0 payment service provider, has achieved multiple firsts since obtaining the full payment licenses from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) in August 2022.

The fintech is the first payment company to launch a point of sale (POS) machine in Singapore to accept cryptocurrencies.
DTC’s Chief Operating Officer El Lee is the first home-grown Singapore entrepreneur to receive the Top 10 Fintech Leaders award three times.
DTC is the first fully licensed crypto currency payment company in Asia to be selected for Mastercard’s Start Path global startup engagement program.

First POS machine to accept cryptocurrencies in Singapore

DTC became the first MAS regulated major payment company to launch a point of service (POS) machine for physical cryptocurrency transactions in Singapore at the Singapore Fintech Festival.

Digital Treasures Center showcasing their POS machine that accepts physical cryptocurrency transactions during Singapore Fintech Festival.

“The DTC team has worked hard to ensure that merchants can seamlessly accept crypto in their physical stores. Now consumers can pay via cryptocurrencies at physical store through our POS machine seamlessly,” said Alice Liu, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of DTC.

With a POS machine, DTC is empowering merchants to easily accept cryptocurrency payment and receive fiat payout in Singapore Dollar or US Dollar. This allows merchants to see almost immediate transfer with transaction fees that is much lower than typical credit cards.

Retailers that are already using DTC’s service to accept cryptocurrency payment include 35A Scotts, a private club house; H2 Hub, a watch retailer with multiple outlets around Singapore; and Lumin Eye Specialist, which provides holistic ophthalmology services, GL Auto and F1 Auto, which are premium car dealers in Singapore.

Currently, DTC accepts Bitcoin (BTC), Ethereum (ETH), USD Tether (USDT) and USD Coin (USDC).

First home-grown Singapore entrepreneur to be a 3rd time winner of the Top 10 Fintech Leaders award

Second, El Lee, Chief Operating Officer and Co-founder of DTC became the first home-grown Singapore entrepreneur to win the coveted Top 10 Fintech Leaders award for the third time at the Singapore Fintech Festival 2022 in recognition of his leadership in driving the company in the frontier at the cryptocurrency payment space in Singapore.

From left to right: Richmond Teo from Paxos presenting El Lee, Chief Operating Officer of Digital Treasures Center, the Top 10 Fintech Leaders award during Singapore Fintech Festival.

Since receiving the MPI license in August, DTC has gone from strength to strength. In addition to launching the first POS machine to accept crypto transactions physically, DTC has also launched DTC Wallet on Apple Store and Google Play. The fintech is also enhancing the onboarding process to allow for online and near real-time onboarding.

“I am grateful for the continued recognition as one of the top 10 Fintech Leaders, having strived to improve the blockchain and financial industry.” El said. “The award also belongs to our team that worked very hard. DTC is the only MAS regulated payment company that has product for both consumer and merchant, and solution for both online and in-store payment, with card, fiat and crypto payment processing capability!”

First fully licensed cryptocurrency payment company in Asia to be selected for this year Mastercard Start Path program

DTC is the only Asia-based company to be selected for this year Mastercard Start Path. Founded in 2014, Start Path has engaged 350 startups globally. Approximately 1,500 startups annually are evaluated for entry to the program with a 2% acceptance rate. Through the Mastercard Start Path Crypto program, high-potential Web3 startups receive the opportunity to co-create and innovate, gain customized expertise from Mastercard, and access a diverse customer base through the company’s global scale.

“We are excited to be part of this prestigious Start Path program by Mastercard and we believe there is great synergy between DTC, Mastercard and its ecosystem. As DTC build the next generation payment solution to bring crypto, cash, card together into a single platform, card players like Mastercard are key strategic partners for us and we look forward to learning and working with the Mastercard team,” said El.

For more information about the Start Program this year, please refer to the Mastercard announcement: https://mstr.cd/3tdqySu

About Digital Treasures Center

Digital Treasures Center Pte Ltd (“DTC”) is an enterprise payment service provider incorporated in Singapore with PCI-DSS level 1 certification and winner of the prestigious Fintech Partner Award at Singapore Fintech Festival. Our payment solution – DTC Pay, offers clients and merchants the ability to receive and settle payment, including cryptocurrency. DTC Pay is compliant, fast, secure and cost efficient. DTC is dedicated to building the payment infrastructure that would allow merchants and consumers to interact with fiat and cryptocurrency seamlessly.

Find out more at www.dtcpayment.com

For media related queries, please contact:
Mr. Desmond Yong
Email: desmond.yong@dtcpayment.com
Mobile: +65 9794 1679

Club Med Celebrates 11.11 with Amazing Family Travel Deals

SINGAPORE, Nov 8, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Make it a year to remember as Club Med, the leader of all-inclusive holidays, is offering its limited time 11.11 holiday packages, where children below 8 years old can stay for free at sought-after destinations – from Snow resorts such as Club Med Sahoro and Club Med Tomamu in Hokkaido, Japan; to Sun resorts in Club Med La Plantation d'Albion and Club Med The Albion Villas in Mauritius; in Club Med Bali and Club Med Bintan in Indonesia; or Club Med Phuket in Thailand.

Happening from 7th November 2022 until 11th November 2022, the promotion applies for bookings with a minimum stay of 4-Days 3-Nights for any accommodation type (Superior, Deluxe or Suites) at Club Med La Plantation d'Albion, The Albion Villas, Phuket, Bintan or Bali, and for those booking a minimum stay of 5-Days 4-Nights in Deluxe rooms or Suites at Club Med Tomamu or Sahoro. The promotion will be valid for stays until 30th April 2023 – allowing the chance for families to not only plan for the upcoming year-end holidays, but also for future holidays too.

Being a pioneer of Kids & Family experiences since 1967 with its initial introduction of Mini Club Med +, a space for children 4-10 year olds to learn and grow while on vacation, the promotion aligns with Club Med's long-standing commitment to deliver unparalleled and meaningful holiday experiences for families. Especially with children's time being ever more occupied by anonymous screens, Club Med is the ideal destination for them to reconnect with families in the real world as the array of outdoor adventures, family-friendly offerings, lifestyle ambience and shows available at their resorts provides the opportunity for children to rediscover the joys of doing things together.

Parents will also be delighted as programmes and activities at Club Med are created to keep the children entertained throughout their stay. Recently, Club Med introduced Mini Club Med + [1] the evolution of its highly acclaimed Kids Club formerly known as Mini Club Med +, featuring a brand-new science-based framework inspired by Positive Education.

Developed in partnership with Professor Ilona Boniwell, an Expert in Positive Psychology & Positive Education and a world leader in the field of Positive Psychology, the new framework helps boosts a child's well-being and self-development by enhancing essential soft skills such as emotional intelligence and adaptability, which will help them grow and flourish in any environment. Through Mini Club Med +, children can discover their unique character strengths while on vacation, revolving around the six Cs: creativity, co-operation, courage, connection, cheerfulness and confidence.

Beyond the new Mini Club Med + enhancement, Club Med resorts also feature Kids' Clubs for children 4 months to 17 years, the award-winning Amazing Family! program that encourages family bonding in a unique way, services and facilities such as a baby corner with pureed food for infants, interconnecting rooms which make vacationing as a family a breeze and sports and activities for all ages, making it the perfect holiday spot for families.

Families looking for an exhilarating ski escape with the family can look forward to a variety of unique experiences at a Club Med ski resort – where everything is taken care of in the all-inclusive package, including ski lift passes, group snow lessons and even apres ski activities. Guests seeking winter excitement to share with friends and family will find it at Club Med Tomamu, where one can expect action-packed snow adventures such as skiing, snowboarding, snow trekking, and even riding Japan's largest indoor wave pool at the nearby Mina Mina Beach. Meanwhile, those seeking a true immersion into authentic Japanese culture and heritage can look forward to reconnecting with loved ones at Club Med Sahoro. Aside from the wide range of winter activities offered at the exclusive snow domain, guests can also look forward to exciting discoveries – from exploring the native Ainu culture and the local culinary delights, to soaking in the natural wonders of the surrounding mountains – the possibilities for unforgettable experiences are endless.

Those looking to experience fun under the sun will also be delighted with the destinations Club Med has to offer. Discover an authentic Mauritian experience with carefully curated explorative family experiences in our Exclusive Collection resorts, Club Med La Plantation d'Albion and The Albion Villas. Fall in love with a resort where abundant tropical nature meets supreme refinement and exceptional service as you uncover renewed passions at La Plantation d'Albion. If you are looking for an extra special getaway in ultimate luxury, the Albion Villas are perfect for you as you will enjoy the best of both worlds in your own private space yet have access to all the activities available in the resort – fun for whole family is guaranteed. Families seeking the cultural wonders that Thailand has to offer can look to Club Med Phuket, Thailand, and be immersed in a sensorial feast – from traditional Thai performances and culinary adventures to vibrant local sights and Tropical Nomad Lifestyle concept parties – there is something for everyone to enjoy. At Club Med Bali, which features an all-new repertoire of activities, programmes, and entertainment line-up, families can explore the resort together through a digital treasure hunt with Club Med Play app or celebrate the rich Balinese culture with a full-day Balinese themed workshops and experiences. Meanwhile, a holiday at Club Med Bintan Island is perfect for families seeking a holistic wellness experience, offering a variety of fitness activities, outdoor pursuits and healthy cuisines.

With more than 70 years of experience perfecting the all-inclusive concept in 70 destinations located around the world, each Club Med property has its own personality and offers unique immersive experiences reflecting on the culture and customs of its host country. Coupled with the convivial spirit brought by Club Med's G.Os (Gentils Organisateurs), the destinations offered are bound to excite families who have been yearning for hassle-free international holidays since travel restrictions were lifted.

Those looking to book their holiday during the 11.11 promotion can do so by visiting https://bit.ly/3SzvRWq.

About Club Med

Club Med, founded in 1950 by Gerard Blitz, invented the all-inclusive holiday club concept, adding in activities especially for children with the creation of the Mini Club in 1967. Led by its pioneering spirit, Club Med seeks out exceptional destinations and sites. Today, Club Med is the world's leading provider of upscale, all-inclusive holiday packages with a French touch for families and working couples. Club Med operates nearly 70 resorts, of which 85% are rated Premium & Exclusive Collection. Present in 30 countries around the world, the Group employs more than 23,000 Gentils Organisateurs (GOs) and Gentils Employes (GEs), representing 110 nationalities.

Media Contact
PRecious Communications for Club Med
clubmed@preciouscomms.com
+65 96303 0567

[1] Mini Club Med+ programme is currently available in Club Med Bali, Club Med Bintan, Club Med Phuket, and Club Med Tomamu only.

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