Spritzer, The Only Diamond Taste Award 2022 Winner in Malaysia

TAIPING, Malaysia, Jul 21, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Spritzer is pleased to announce that, Spritzer silica-rich Natural Mineral Water was recently awarded three stars in the Superior Taste Award 2022 organised by the Brussels-based International Taste Institute. The three stars awarded derived from areas of judging categories include Exceptional products, Remarkable products and Notable products.

The International Taste Institute is an organisation of chefs and sommeliers founded in 2005 dedicated to assisting food and beverage (F&B) companies improve the quality of their products through the annual Superior Taste Award. To be awarded three stars, products must have overall scores of over 90% and be considered an exceptional product by the 200 jury members from 20 countries that have been carefully selected based on their experience in tasting.

This is the seventh time over a 10-year period that Spritzer Natural Mineral Water, which is sourced from underground aquifers from a protected tropical landbank, has been awarded three stars which entitles it to the Diamond Taste Award. Spritzer silica-rich Natural Mineral Water was also among only 18 products out of 2,350 F&B products this year to be awarded Diamond Taste Award by a panel of professional taste experts.

The Company would like to thank consumers for their support and loyalty over the years as it stives to maintain the quality of the silica-rich natural mineral water while continuing to give back to society through various initiatives spanning from assistance during disasters to recycling programmes to achieve a better and more sustainable future.

Spritzer recently launched a new iconic bottle with a trendy and vibrant design made from fully recycled packaging made by recycled materials, and also recently won the Reader's Digest's Trusted Brands 2022 platinum award for 21 consecutive years.

Spritzer Bhd: [Bursa: SPRITZER; 7103] [RIC: SPTZ:KL] [BB: SPZ:MK] [OTC: SPZRF], https://www.spritzer.com.my

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

32nd HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, 5th Sports and Leisure Expo and 2nd World of Snacks open to the public today

HONG KONG, Jul 20, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – The 32nd HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), begins today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) and runs until 26 July. Running in tandem with the Book Fair are the 5th HKTDC Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and 2nd HKTDC World of Snacks. Together, they are host to more than 700 exhibitors. Officiating at today's opening ceremony for the three events was John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), along with Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC, and Margaret Fong, Executive Director of the HKTDC.

John Lee (front row, centre), Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, officiated at today's opening ceremony for the 2022 HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair along with Dr Peter K N Lam (front row, R), Chairman of the HKTDC, and Margaret Fong (front row, L), Executive Director of the HKTDC.

Hong Kong's literature lovers eagerly awaited the opening of the Book Fair in the hope of buying their favourite books and discovering new reading adventures.

The second edition of World of Snacks presents a global selection of tasty treats.

As one of the events celebrating the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the HKSAR, this year's Book Fair, under the theme "History and City Literature" and with the tagline "Reading the World: Stories of Hong Kong", has gathered numerous acclaimed writers and will host more than 600 seminars and cultural activities at the HKCEC and across the city to celebrate the joy of reading.

Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC, said: "As the first large-scale public event this year, we hope the Book Fair can help bring positive energy to the community. This year's theme is 'History & City Literature'. The fair's Art Gallery features five 'History Writers' and 25 books from the 'City Literature' category chosen to mark the 25th Anniversary of the HKSAR. We hope the public can discover and be inspired by the city's historical development."

Thematic exhibitions highlight Hong Kong's culture and history

In keeping with this year's Book Fair theme, four exhibitions are being staged at the Art Gallery in the HKCEC Hall 3 Concourse. The "History Writers" exhibition features the works of five outstanding writers, namely (in no particular order) Ting Sun-pao, Lui Tai-lok, Elizabeth Sinn Yuk-yee, the late Yeh Ling-feng and Cheng Po-hung. A selection of their books, out-of-print works, manuscripts and precious memorabilia is on display to help readers understand the philosophy and inspiration behind their lives and works.

Ting Sun-pao will share his experiences delving into the past in a seminar titled "My Journey on Historical Research" this Friday (22 July), while Lui Tai-lok will analyse the historical context of Hong Kong from multiple perspectives in the seminar "Hong Kong Society's Social Landscape: Description" (23 July). Elizabeth Sinn Yuk-yee will discuss the ups and downs experienced in her historical research in the seminar "Hardships and Joys in 40 years" (24 July). Yeh Zhong-min, attending the Book Fair on behalf of her late father, Yeh Ling-feng, will speak about his research into Hong Kong's literature and history in the seminar "Hong Kong – My Second Home" (25 July). Meanwhile, Cheng Po-hung discusses the city's culinary delights and entertainment development in two seminars, "A Century of Hong Kong Food and Delicacies" (20 July) and "A Century of Hong Kong's Entertainment" (25 July).

"City Literature" features 25 literary works about Hong Kong by renowned local writers, including Xiao Si, Xi Xi, Eileen Chang, Shu Xiang-cheng, and Liu Yi-chang. There is an interactive exhibition that takes readers on a tour of the city from multiple perspectives through words and texts.

The two other thematic exhibitions are "Tastes of Hong Kong" and "Hong Kong Architecture". Working in collaboration with Cheng Po-hung, Lau Tsz-chun, James Ng, Ng Gui-long, the Chinese Culinary Institute, Tao Heung Museum of Food Culture and Yung Kee Restaurant, "Tastes of Hong Kong" presents the evolution of Hong Kong's culinary culture through valuable artefacts. The "Hong Kong Architecture" exhibition is run in partnership with Urban Sketchers Hong Kong and National Geographic, showcasing paintings and photographs by artists depicting Hong Kong's historical sites and city landscapes.

"Eight Seminar Series" connects writers with booklovers

The "Eight Seminar Series" continues to be a major highlight at the Book Fair. The topics this year cover a wide spectrum of literary interests, including "Stories of Hong Kong", "Renowned Writers", "English and International Reading", "World of Knowledge", "Children and Youth Reading", "Lifestyle", "Hong Kong Culture and History", and "Personal Development and Spiritual Growth". Authors and booklovers are able to interact and exchange ideas at the seminars.

Partnering with Ming Pao and Yazhou Zhoukan, the HKTDC has again organised the "Renowned Writers Seminar Series", inviting leading authors to share their creative journey and insights. Documentary photographer Liu Heung-shing shared his insights on capturing the visual history of the city in person today (20 July). Art curator Li Pi will describe how the M+ Museum has made Hong Kong a cultural capital in the region (21 July), while Hong Kong writer Shum Sai-shing will reminisce about the late Ni Kuang in the seminar "Recalling Our Literary Giant – Ni Kuang" (23 July).

The "English and International Reading Series" supported by Book Depository, an international online bookstore, has invited a number of famous English- and foreign-language writers to host virtual and in-person seminars, helping readers learn more about foreign cultures. Two British writers, Clare Mackintosh and Gillian McAllister, met reading enthusiasts virtually today (20 July). Clare Mackintosh described the way she moved from being a police officer to an accomplished crime writer, while Gillian McAllister shared her creative journey and the sources of her ideas.

This year's fair also continues with the "Storytelling by Celebrities" events, inviting former Chinese champion diver Guo Jing-jing, Chief Executive of the Consumer Council Gilly Wong and Hong Kong Museum of Art Chief Curator Mok Ka-wing to tell their inspirational stories to children. For seminars registration and authors line-up at the Book Fair, please visit: https://hkbookfair.hktdc.com/en/Events/Event-Schedule.html

Thematic zones present diverse cultures

The Book Fair features numerous thematic zones, including General Books Pavilion, English Avenue, University Press Square, Spirituality Zone, Children's Paradise and more. The International Cultural Village is attended by representatives of various consulates in Hong Kong to promote their own cultures and publications. The Consulate General of France in Hong Kong and Macau will present French culture through classic works of art in the seminar "Uncovering the Smile of the Mona Lisa", while the Consulate General of Switzerland in Hong Kong and Macau will introduce the attractions of Switzerland in the seminar "Exploring Switzerland through Train Rides". The Virtual Classroom zone continues to cater to the new normal in teaching. For instance, a Hong Kong start-up highlights its research and development into cloud-based interactive virtual classrooms, providing artificial intelligence and programming certificate courses and assisting schools to promote science and technology education.

Cultural July in hybrid mode

Alongside the Book Fair, the HKTDC is collaborating with numerous partners, including the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, publishers, cultural and educational institutions, shopping malls and cafes, to organise a series of more than 300 cultural events in the 18 districts of Hong Kong as part of the "Cultural July" campaign. This year, a set of four exquisite Chocolate Rain stickers has been designed for the event. Participants can redeem gifts at the Book Fair after collecting a full set of four stickers. For further details, please visit: https://hkbookfair.hktdc.com/CulturalJuly

Exciting experiences at Sports and Leisure Expo

This year's Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo features eight thematic zones – Sports Hub, Outdoor Adventure, Health & Fitness, Fun & Learn, Board Games, Photography World, Japan Pavilion and Handicraft Market – presenting a variety of sports and leisure brands, products and experiences.

A range of fun activities is offered in the Sports Hub zone for visitors to enjoy free of charge, including an e-sports racing competition and simulator trials, lacrosse demonstrations and mini-games. Exhibitors from the Health & Fitness zone are offering free massages and a massage-chair experience while Fun & Learn promotes boules and petanque along with a 3D printing workshop. Hong Kong racing driver Darryl O'Young and members of the Hong Kong Baseball Association have also been invited to join the sharing sessions at the expo.

The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) and nine Japanese prefectures and cities have once again joined the Japan Pavilion to showcase the country's attractions and cultural characteristics. JNTO's experience hall has set up a Japanese hotspot map to display the featured attractions and delicacies of many counties and cities. Visitors can choose their own Japanese tour route from the map according to their preferences. Meanwhile, Kadokawa Corporation, among the top four publishing houses in Japan, has collaborated with Tottori Prefecture to introduce local cultural highlights and bestselling books and magazines from Japan. There will also be sessions on traditional Japanese dance, strategies for travelling in Japan and more to showcase the charm of Japanese culture.

In addition, Photography World and Board Games showcase a variety of products, including the world's first F2 aperture mirrorless camera with a high-magnification zoom lens, Kodak cameras, and fascinating table games with Hong Kong themes.

World of Snacks returns with global selection of tasty treats

Following the success of last year's debut event, World of Snacks returns to feature six thematic zones – Travel Delights, Chocolate and Sweet Factory, Oldie Snacks, Yummy & Healthy, Party Time and Snack Bar – bringing together more than 1,200 popular treats from across the globe.

Public safety is a top priority for the HKTDC, and various measures have been implemented throughout these concurrent events to protect the health of the participants. All staff members, exhibitors and visitors are required to wear masks in the venue, use the LeaveHomeSafe mobile app and show their COVID-19 vaccination record before entering the HKCEC in accordance with the HKSAR Government's COVID-19 protocols. Other onsite safety measures include temperature-screening stations, the provision of hand sanitisers and disinfection items at multiple locations around the HKCEC, as well as enhanced cleaning and disinfection provision at the venue. Visitors are encouraged to make purchases using e-payment, which is accepted by about 85% of the exhibitors.

To ensure a more even flow of visitors throughout the day, the HKTDC has introduced morning admission tickets, night admission tickets as well as a special re-entry promotion. There are no physical ticket sales at the fairground in order to avoid the use of cash and minimise contact. Visitors can pay with their Octopus cards at the entrance's toll booths. More details of the ticketing arrangements can be found below.

The HKTDC Education & Careers Expo will be held at the HKCEC from tomorrow (21 July) to 24 July, running in parallel with the Book Fair and other events. Youngsters and jobseekers can access the latest information on education and career opportunities at this one-stop event. Admission is free of charge.

Websites:
– Hong Kong Book Fair: http://www.hkbookfair.com
– Cultural July: https://hkbookfair.hktdc.com/CulturalJuly
– Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo: https://hksportsleisureexpo.hktdc.com
– World of Snacks: https://worldofsnacks.hktdc.com
– Education & Careers Expo: https://hkeducationexpo.hktdc.com
– Photo download: https://bit.ly/3yTwkuV
– Photos of the exhibits, key speakers and other Book Fair highlights can be found at: http://bitly.ws/sJtk

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 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

Hong Kong Book Fair

HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Clementine Cheung, Tel: +852 2584 4514, Email: clementine.hm.cheung@hktdc.org
Sunny Ng, Tel: +852 2584 4357, Email: sunny.sl.ng@hktdc.org
Sam Ho, Tel: +852 2584 4569, Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.org

Yuan Tung Financial Relations:
Agnes Yiu, Tel: +852 3428 5690, Email: ayiu@yuantung.com.hk
Hing-Fung Wong, Tel: +852 3428 3122, Email: hfwong@yuantung.com.hk

Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo, World of Snacks

HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Frankie Leung, Tel: +852 2584 4298, Email: frankie.cy.leung@hktdc.org

Yuan Tung Financial Relations:
Tiffany Leung, Tel: +852 3428 2361, Email: tleung@yuantung.com.hk

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

UCrest Partners with Malaysian Genomics to Digitalize Genome Services Worldwide

PETALING JAYA, Malaysia, Jul 20, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – UCrest Berhad (ACE Market: 0005) and Malaysian Genomics Resources Centre Berhad, (ACE Market: 0155) announced today that they have signed a collaborative agreement to integrate genomic testing services into digital health platform, iMedic(TM), elevating healthcare services to the next level.

Dato' Dr. Mohd Fikri bin Abdullah, Independent Director of UCrest Berhad; Mr. Eg Kah Yee, Chairman and Managing Director of UCrest Berhad; En. Sasha Nordin, Chief Executive Director, Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre Berhad; Dr. Eunice Pui Wan Wen, Head of Medical Affairs, Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre Berhad[L-R]

Under this agreement, a virtual genome service centre will be developed on iMedic platform enabling the genomic testing services of MGRC to be made available to the hospitals and clinics (B2B), widening its market access not just in Malaysia, but globally. Additionally, the genomic testing services will also be made available to patients directly (B2C). Patients' genomic data from their test results will be integrated into Electronic Medical Records (EMR) making it accessible by doctors and patients in the process of consultation and management, resulting in improved accuracy in diagnosis and treatment.

UCrest is the leading technology provider of digital health platform with offices in Malaysia, Singapore, China and Taiwan providing access to thousands of doctors, including many from the leading hospitals in the United States and China, to provide online consultation and management of patients anywhere in the globe.

Malaysian Genomics is a leading genomics and biopharmaceutical company in ASEAN for genome sequencing, bioinformatics analysis, and genetic screening, and various types of immunotherapy including CAR T-Cell therapy for the treatment of certain cancers.

The global genomics market size was valued at US$20.1 billion in 2020 and is expected to expand at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 15.35% from 2021 to 2028. The Asia Pacific genome sequencing market will grow by 15.6% annually over 2022-2030 due to growing government funding initiatives in genomics projects related to cancer treatment and the utilization of genomics in personalized medicine targeting chronic disease prevention and management.

Mr. Sasha Nordin, Chief Executive Officer of Malaysian Genomics, said, "We are looking forward to working with UCrest as its iMedic platform will provide us an opportunity to reach out to markets beyond Malaysia. The platform will also enable us to strengthen our B2B and B2C channels. This collaboration can play an important role in providing physicians with easy access to the latest in genetic screening, in support of enhancing their medical practice and improving patient outcomes."

"This partnership with Malaysian Genomics allows us to enhance our vision of integrating preventive and precision medicine into iMedic where genome data will empower the patients to better prevent and manage the chronic diseases with the online consultation of doctors," said Mr. Eg Kah Yee, Chief Executive Officer of UCrest. "Cancer, Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD), diabetic, asthma, sleep apnea and many other chronic diseases can be prevented, managed or treated more effectively with the addition of the genome services," he added.

Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre Berhad: 0155 [BURSA: MGRC] [RIC: MGRC:KL] [BBG: MGRC:MK], http://www.mgrc.com.my/
UCrest Berhad: 0005 [BURSA: UC] https://www.ucrest.net/

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

Therapeutic Goods Administration Grants Provisional Approval for Moderna’s COVID-19 Vaccine in Children Aged Six Months to Five Years

Cambridge, MA, Jul 19, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Moderna, Inc. (NASDAQ:MRNA), a biotechnology company pioneering messenger RNA (mRNA) therapeutics and vaccines, today announced that the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) in Australia has granted provisional registration for the use of Moderna's mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, Spikevax, in a two-dose series of 25 ug per dose for active immunization to prevent COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 in children aged 6 months to 5 years. Until now, children under six were the only age group not eligible for vaccination against COVID-19 in Australia.

"We are pleased that our vaccine for children under six years of age has received provisional approval by the TGA," said Michael Azrak, General Manager of Moderna for Australia and New Zealand. "The continued evolution of COVID-19 represents an emergent threat to global public health, including young children. Since the onset of the pandemic, we have worked with a deep sense of responsibility to deliver on the promise of mRNA science to all Australians. The approval from TGA helps extend an opportunity to all parents and caregivers in Australia to protect their young children against SARS-COV-2."

Positive interim results from the Phase 2/3 KidCOVE study, announced on March 23, 2022, showed a robust neutralizing antibody response in the 6-month to 5 years of age group after a two-dose primary series of mRNA-1273, along with a favorable safety profile. The antibody titers in the pre-specified 6 month to 23 month and 2 years to 5 years of age sub-groups met the statistical criteria for similarity to the adults in the COVE study, which satisfied the primary objective of the study. Preliminary efficacy analysis on PCR-confirmed cases collected during the Omicron wave showed similar efficacy estimates against Omicron in the 6-month to 5 years of age group to those in adults after two doses of mRNA-1273.

The KidCOVE study is being conducted in collaboration with the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), part of the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The ClinicalTrials.gov identifier is NCT04796896.

Moderna is committed to supporting the Australian Government on the COVID-19 program implementation in children aged 6 months to five years upon receiving a recommendation from the Australian Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (ATAGI).

The TGA previously approved the use of Moderna's mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, Spikevax (elasomeran mRNA vaccine), for active immunization to prevent COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 in individuals aged six years or over.

Authorized Use

Therapeutic Goods Administration has provisionally approved the use of Moderna's mRNA COVID-19 vaccine, Spikevax (elasomeran mRNA vaccine), for active immunization to prevent COVID-19 caused by SARS-CoV-2 in individuals 6 months of age and older.

About Moderna

In 10 years since its inception, Moderna has transformed from a science research-stage company advancing programs in the field of messenger RNA (mRNA), to an enterprise with a diverse clinical portfolio of vaccines and therapeutics across seven modalities, a broad intellectual property portfolio in areas including mRNA and lipid nanoparticle formulation, and an integrated manufacturing plant that allows for rapid clinical and commercial production at scale. Moderna maintains alliances with a broad range of domestic and overseas government and commercial collaborators, which has allowed for the pursuit of both ground-breaking science and rapid scaling of manufacturing. Most recently, Moderna's capabilities have come together to allow the authorized use and approval of one of the earliest and most-effective vaccines against the COVID-19 pandemic.

Moderna's mRNA platform builds on continuous advances in basic and applied mRNA science, delivery technology and manufacturing, and has allowed the development of therapeutics and vaccines for infectious diseases, immuno-oncology, rare diseases, cardiovascular diseases, and auto-immune diseases. Moderna has been named a top biopharmaceutical employer by Science for the past seven years. To learn more, visit www.modernatx.com.

Forward Looking Statements

This post contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended, including regarding: the development of the Company's COVID-19 Vaccine (mRNA-1273, or Spikevax); the approval of the vaccine in children ages 6 months to 5 years by the Therapeutic Goods Administration; and the safety, efficacy, and tolerability of the vaccine in children ages 6 months to 5 years of age. The forward-looking statements in this press release are neither promises nor guarantees, and you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements because they involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors, many of which are beyond Moderna's control and which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These risks, uncertainties, and other factors include those other risks and uncertainties described under the heading "Risk Factors" in Moderna's most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and in subsequent filings made by Moderna with the SEC, which are available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. Except as required by law, Moderna disclaims any intention or responsibility for updating or revising any forward-looking statements contained in this post in the event of new information, future developments or otherwise. These forward-looking statements are based on Moderna's current expectations and speak only as of the date hereof.

Moderna Contacts

Media:
Luke Mircea-Willats
Director, Media Relations & Communications
Luke.mirceawillats@modernatx.com

Investors:
Lavina Talukdar
Senior Vice President & Head of Investor Relations
617-209-5834
Lavina.Talukdar@modernatx.com

SOURCE: Moderna, Inc.

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

HKTDC International Sourcing Show run with new EXHIBITION+ model draws to successful close

HONG KONG, Jul 18, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the International Sourcing Show physical fair, run with the new EXHIBITION+ (EPLUS) model, drew to a successful close on 15 July. Over 20,000 industry buyers attended the physical event and browsed products online. The event facilitated more than 5,000 business meetings, connecting exhibitors with global buyers both online and offline.

The International Sourcing Show drew to a successful close on 15 July. A large number of industry players were attracted to join the physical fairs.

The physical fairs were held in the form of display showcases, presenting products from seven trade fairs with more than 1,730 exhibitors from 12 countries and regions.

The International Sourcing Show ran with the brand-new online exhibition model EXHIBITION+, facilitating more than 5,000 business meetings online and offline, connecting exhibitors with global buyers.

The International Sourcing Show attracted more than 1,730 exhibitors from 12 countries and regions, presenting in excess of 83,000 products. The show gathered seven trade fairs under one umbrella, including the HKTDC Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Spring Edition), Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Spring Edition), Hong Kong Gifts & Premium Fair, Hong Kong Houseware Fair, Hong Kong Fashion Week, Hong Kong International Home Textiles and Furnishings Fair, and the Hong Kong International Printing & Packaging Fair (jointly organised by the CIEC Exhibition Company (HK) Limited). The new EPLUS model helped extend interactions between exhibitors and buyers to the online platform, helping enterprises to continue exploring "blue ocean" opportunities via the smart online business-matching platform Click2Match and hktdc.com Sourcing.

Positive feedback from EPLUS users

Participating exhibitors proactively used Click2Match to search for potential partners and took the initiative to arrange meetings with buyers from all over the world at their own convenience. Sophia Chong, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC, said: "As the first event to use the new EPLUS exhibition model, the International Sourcing Show has generated positive feedback from users. We are happy to see many exhibitors harness the platform to seize business opportunities, contact global buyers, and facilitate order agreements around the clock and across borders. We will continue to use EPLUS in our upcoming trade fairs to further assist different sectors of Hong Kong business to connect with international buyers."

Connecting to global buyers via online and offline business matching meetings

Rosana Lau, Deputy Marketing Manager of Gold China Development Ltd, which specialises in the production of kitchenware, tableware and home decoration items, explained that the company was looking for new local and overseas buyers through the International Sourcing Show. Using the HKTDC's Click2Match platform, the firm arranged at least eight online meetings with overseas buyers from Brazil, Japan and the United States. Also, with the help of the HKTDC's business matching team, they met with potential buyers from hotel groups and premium online gift shops.

Lubee Chak, Brand Director of Louise Castle Company, a premium fashion brand for tailor-made men's suits and accessories, said that in addition to talking to more than 10 buyers at the physical fair, the HKTDC's business matching team helped the firm arrange online meetings with buyers from Hong Kong, Japan, Mainland China and Thailand, helping it to raise brand awareness and build a stronger foundation for future business development in overseas markets.

Beyond Li, General Manager, Zhejiang Jupeng Drinkware Co Ltd, a company specialising in manufacturing thermal mugs and sports water bottles, said that apart from displaying products at the physical fair of the International Sourcing Show, the company also participated in the online fair to find new customers. They established a number of contacts through the physical fair and talked to around eight gift buyers from France, Hong Kong, Indonesia and the Philippines via online meetings. Buyers from Hong Kong and France expressed an intention to place orders worth US$200,000 for their thermal mugs and sports water bottles. The International Sourcing Show provided the company with an effective channel to find quality buyers and capture online-to-offline business opportunities.

On-site business networking sessions

The HKTDC organised two business networking sessions during the physical show to connect buyers and suppliers. Beattie Leung, Sales Manager at Shinzen International Ltd, a distributor and wholesaler of pet supplies and pet food, said the company wanted to add pet backpacks and pet toys to its portfolio and to develop new markets such as Mainland China and Southeast Asia. Through the business networking session, they connected with a potential supplier from which they planned to place an order of 1,000 pet backpacks. Ms Leung said her company felt comfortable working with Hong Kong suppliers because they were reliable and able to provide quality products.

Hector Pang, Chairman of the China Affairs Committee at SME Global Alliance, said the physical edition of the International Sourcing Show provided an ideal platform for its members with factories in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area to find new suppliers of raw materials and identify business opportunities. The alliance found a suitable supplier of eco-friendly non-woven bags from Mainland China and decided to place an order of 50,000 pieces that will be distributed to its members.

Zhejiang enterprises reached out to global buyers via International Sourcing Show

The Department of Commerce of Zhejiang Province gathered exhibitors from the gifts and printing and packaging industries, forming the largest pavilion at the show. It was also the first time for the Zhejiang Pavilion to participate in the fair remotely. Sophia Chong, Deputy Executive Director of the HKTDC, and Chen Zhicheng, Deputy Director General, Department of Commerce of Zhejiang Province, met online to officiate the launch of the Zhejiang Pavilion. Zhu Ying, Director of the Trade and Development Department, Department of Commerce of Zhejiang Province, and Zhang Shuangwen, General Manager of CIEC Exhibition Company (HK) Limited, also joined the ceremony and a group photo-taking session to commemorate the occasion. The opening ceremony can be viewed on the fair website and through the Click2Match platform.

Websites
– hktdc.com Sourcing platform: http://sourcing.hktdc.com
– EXHIBITION+: http://hktdc.com/eplus
– HKTDC Media Room: http://mediaroom.hktdc.com/tc
– Photo download: https://bit.ly/3PBybeI

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:
Clayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.org
Agnes Wat, Tel: +852 2584 4554, Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.org

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

Malaysia Witnesses 31% YoY Hiring Growth

Retail and Tourism roles drive high demand: Monster Employment Index

Overall hiring improved by 31 per cent on a year-on-year basis
Retail led with triple-digit growth of 321% annually in the Malaysian job market
Demand for professionals across Hospitality and Travel roles surged as tourism bounces back in the country

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA, July 15, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – The Malaysian job market has recorded a 31% growth in job demand this June indicating a spree in hiring activity on an annual basis. A number of segments hit hardest by Covid-19 have shown promising signs of resurgence, as per the Monster Employment Index (MEI).

An upsurge of 15% was registered for hiring activity over the last six months, while month-on-month growth improved at 5% projecting a continuous demand in the job market.

Despite two years of restriction on public activities, rising prices, and the current labour crisis, the retail industry in Malaysia has moved towards recovery with a 321% year-on-year growth in job activity in June 2022. Moreover, retail sales in the country are projected to grow at the rate of 25.7% in the current quarter as per Malaysian retail associations. While the country has seen a number of retail closures over the pandemic, consumer sentiments soar high showcasing a positive outlook for this segment in the months to come.

Commenting on job trends for June 2022, Sekhar Garisa, CEO, Monster.com – APAC & Gulf said, “Companies today are ramping up their demand for a digital-first future-ready workforce amidst the ongoing talent crunch we see globally. Jobs in Malaysia have come back and several industries have begun to almost reflect pre-pandemic business functioning with steadfast recovery especially across deeply impacted segments like Tourism, Hospitality, and Retail. With flexible work arrangements gaining popularity in the job market, we are optimistic to see continued growth and resilience in the coming months.”

Following retail, the Hospitality segment (up 65 percent) has also seen a huge inflow of demand for professionals in tourism and travel related industries with the user penetration rate nearing the pre-pandemic levels. With improved business sentiments and airline travel ramping up, tourism in the country has certainly picked up accompanied by the consequent rise in demand for skilled talent. Logistic, Courier/ Freight/ Transportation, Shipping/ Marine (up 51 percent) also noted a huge jump in hiring activity being next in the rung, followed by rapid digitization in BFSI (up 32 percent).

Other sectors that noted promising growth in June include Production/Manufacturing, Automotive and Ancillary (up 4 percent), IT, Telecom/ISP, BPO/ITES (up 5 percent), Advertising, Market Research, Public Relations, Media and Entertainment (up 16 percent) and Engineering, Construction and Real Estate (up 19 percent).

Across roles, the Malaysian job market exhibited maximum demand for professionals in Hospitality & Travel (up 162 percent) driven by travel resumption from neighbouring countries coupled with strong domestic tourism. Interestingly, all 9 functions monitored by the Index saw positive growth over the course of June 2022 projecting a great demand influx for the market.

Given the impressive performance of retail, roles in Customer Service (up 79 percent) increased, followed by Software, Hardware, Telecom (up 58 percent). Finance & Accounts (up 52 percent) and Sales & Business Development (up 41 percent) also observed a rise.

The Monster Employment Index is a broad monthly analysis of online job posting activity conducted by Monster India. Based on a real-time review of millions of employer job opportunities culled from a large, representative selection of online career outlets, the Monster Employment Index presents a snapshot of employer online recruitment activity nationwide.

Period for the report

The period considered for the MEI data is 1^st to 30^th June 2022.

About Monster APAC & Middle East

Monster (a Quess Company), the leading online career and recruitment resource, with its cutting-edge technology provides relevant profiles to employers and jobs to jobseekers across industry verticals, experience levels, and geographies. More than 200 million people have registered on the Monster Worldwide network. Today, with operations in more than 40 countries, Monster provides the widest and most sophisticated job seeking, career management, recruitment, and talent management capabilities globally.

Monster continues its pioneering work of transforming the recruiting industry with advanced technology using intelligent digital, social and mobile solutions, and a vast array of products and services.

Contact:

Yatharth Sharma
yatharth.sharma@monsterindia.com

Silky Sharma
silky.sharma@adfactorspr.com

Malaysia Witnesses 31% YoY Hiring Growth

Retail and Tourism roles drive high demand: Monster Employment Index

Overall hiring improved by 31 per cent on a year-on-year basis
Retail led with triple-digit growth of 321% annually in the Malaysian job market
Demand for professionals across Hospitality and Travel roles surged as tourism bounces back in the country

An upsurge of 15% was registered for hiring activity over the last six months, while month-on-month growth improved at 5% projecting a continuous demand in the job market.

Period for the report

The period considered for the MEI data is 1^st to 30^th June 2022.

About Monster APAC & Middle East

Contact:

Yatharth Sharma
yatharth.sharma@monsterindia.com

Silky Sharma
silky.sharma@adfactorspr.com

Renowned authors speak at HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair

HONG KONG, Jul 15, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – The 32nd HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), is once again holding the popular "Eight Seminar Series", with highlights this year including the "Renowned Writers Seminar Series", co-organised by Ming Pao and Yazhou Zhoukan, and the "English and International Reading Series", supported by Book Depository. This year's Book Fair, which runs from 20 to 26 July (Wednesday to Tuesday) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) under the theme "History and City Literature", has invited acclaimed local and foreign writers to speak at a series of virtual and in-person seminars, sharing the challenges and triumphs they face during their writing journey.

The “Renowned Writers Seminar Series” is honoured to invite Liu Zhen-yun (L), winner of the Mao Dun Literature Prize, and Sisy Chen (R), a famous Taiwanese author and television host, to be guest speakers.

Clare Mackintosh (Photo credit: (c) Bill Waters)

Gillian McAllister (Photo credit: (c) Bill Waters)

The "Renowned Writers Seminar Series" is honoured to invite Liu Zhen-yun, winner of the Mao Dun Literature Prize, and Sisy Chen, a famous Taiwanese author and television host, to be guest speakers. Mr Liu will introduce his latest work, Laughter and Tears: A Novel, while Ms Chen will analyse the direction society is taking in a seminar titled "In the 21st Century, We Go from Civilisation to Barbarism". Other authors in the star-studded line-up include Zhou Guo-ping and Zhi An from Mainland China; Sun Sai-shing, Li Pi, Johnson Chang, Liu Heung-shing, Xu Zi-dong, Ho Fuk-yan and Nicole Huang from Hong Kong; Xie Yong-mao and Bo-Chow Lan from Taiwan; and Honda Yoshihiko from Japan.

The "English and International Reading Series" will invite a number of famous English- and foreign-language writers to speak about their fascinating writing journeys, including British author Clare Mackintosh and Sunday Times Top 10 bestselling author Gillian McAllister. Translated into more than 40 languages, Clare Mackintosh's books have sold more than two million copies worldwide and won numerous awards. Among the other speakers are Simon Toyne, Mio Debnam, Mark O'Neill and Maisie Chan. Hong Kong's booklovers will be able to experience different cultures and broaden their horizons through the sharings of these acclaimed authors.

Liu Zhen-yun – Laughter and Tears: A Novel

Born in Yanjin in Henan Province, Liu Zhenyun started his writing journey at Farmer's Daily after graduating from the Chinese faculty of Peking University. His style is neo-realism and he writes with a signature sense of humour, and with an emphasis on his hometown in his works. From Someone to Talk To, Ground Covered with Chicken Feathers, Remembering 1942 to I Did Not Kill My Husband, most of his books reflect the hardships people encountered in the past but in a humorous way, depicting a vivid portrayal of community life.

Mr Liu believes the underlying meaning of comedy is sharing pain. His just-published book Laughter and Tears: A Novel is a work of black humour, which he summarises as: "one should take encounters in life as jokes and laugh them off". The book is based on the idea of "jokes", which the author sees as an effective tool to examine the nature of humanity. Many jokes connect people from different groups, areas and nations. The new book enriches the "Yanjin World" constructed in Mr Liu's previous novels, and fans are eagerly looking forward its unveiling at the Book Fair.

Sisy Chen – from civilisation to barbarism

Sisy Chen, Jaw Shaw-kong and Li Ao form the famous triumvirate of political commentators in Taiwan. Ms Chen, well known for her multifaceted talents, is a celebrated academic, TV host, radio host, writer and art curator. These diverse experiences empower her with knowledge, wisdom and vision along with accomplished writing skills. Her works cover a wide swathe, including global finance, international politics, short essays, women and love, reflections on life and philosophical speculation. Two of Sisy Chen's short stories, Only One Corner of Prosperity is Left and Tree is Gone, explore international politics and economics with advice for young people on how to handle adversity with fortitude. This dialogue is concluded in I'm Afraid of Success and I Believe in Failure, illuminating the way forward for the next generation.

Ms Chen encourages readers to reflect more on international society and history through her words. "Reviewing the past and looking into the future, you should think more about whether we have retrograded from civilisation to barbarism, or if we have become more civilised," she once said. After going through the pandemic and reflecting on its impact, Ms Chen will share her insights into the post-COVID world with readers.

Clare Mackintosh – from crimefighter to crime writer

Clare Mackintosh is the multi-award-winning author of five bestselling novels – I See You, I Let You Go, Let Me Lie, After the End, and Hostage – which were listed on the bestselling books list of the New York Times and USA Today and topped the Sunday Times bestseller list for 64 weeks. Her latest thriller, Hostage – a locked-room thriller set on a 20-hour flight – has just been released. Ms Mackintosh worked in the police force for 12 years and was once Thames Valley Police's operations inspector for Oxfordshire and town sergeant of Chipping Norton before becoming a full-time writer.

I Let You Go, Clare Mackintosh's top-selling book, describes a hit-and-run accident that kills a lively five-year-old boy. Police Officer Gray and her team take over the investigation and solve the case without any witnesses or clues. In the coming Book Fair seminar session, the author will share her journey from law enforcement officer to crime fiction writer.

Gillian McAllister – how to get and stay published

Rising British author Gillian McAllister was a lawyer before debuting in the book world in 2017. All her works, including Everything But the Truth, Anything You Do Say, No Further Questions, The Evidence Against You, How to Disappear, That Night, and the just-published Wrong Place Wrong Time, are bestsellers. Her debut novel, Everything But the Truth, appeared in the Sunday Times bestseller list at No. 6 in the very first week after publication. Another book, That Night, was recommended as a must-read by the well-known British TV show, Richard and Judy Book Club.

Gillian McAllister's work has been published in 10 countries. All her novels are standalones and can be read in any order. She will be participating in the Hong Kong Book Fair for the first time, sharing the driving force behind her successful journey as an author.

For more information on the full line-up of seminars and authors at the Book Fair, please refer to the links in the profile below. Interested readers may also visit the Hong Kong Book Fair website (www.hkbookfair.com) to register for free seminars and browse through more details of the fascinating events lined up for this year's event.

Note: media representatives who wish to interview the guest speakers should email the interview format, outline and contact information on or before July 18 to ayiu@yuantung.com.hk.

Websites
– Hong Kong Book Fair: http://www.hkbookfair.com
– Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo: https://hksportsleisureexpo.hktdc.com
– World of Snacks: https://worldofsnacks.hktdc.com
– Education & Careers Expo: https://hkeducationexpo.hktdc.com
– Photo download: https://bit.ly/3uEWRuL
– Photos of the exhibits, key speakers and other Book Fair highlights can be found at: http://bitly.ws/sJtk

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

Hong Kong Book Fair

HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Clementine Cheung, Tel: +852 2584 4514, Email: clementine.hm.cheung@hktdc.org
Sunny Ng, Tel: +852 2584 4357, Email: sunny.sl.ng@hktdc.org
Sam Ho, Tel: +852 2584 4569, Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.org

Yuan Tung Financial Relations:
Agnes Yiu, Tel: +852 3428 5690, Email: ayiu@yuantung.com.hk
Hing-Fung Wong, Tel: +852 3428 3122, Email: hfwong@yuantung.com.hk

Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo, World of Snacks

HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Frankie Leung, Tel: +852 2584 4298, Email: frankie.cy.leung@hktdc.org

Yuan Tung Financial Relations:
Tiffany Leung, Tel: +852 3428 2361, Email: tleung@yuantung.com.hk

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

Renowned authors speak at HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair

Clare Mackintosh (Photo credit: (c) Bill Waters)

Gillian McAllister (Photo credit: (c) Bill Waters)

Malaysian Genomics Appoints New Chairman

PETALING JAYA, Malaysia, Jul 15, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre Berhad (Bursa: MGRC, 0155), a leading genomics and biopharmaceutical specialist, announced today that the Company has appointed Dato' Seri Dr Chen Chaw Min as the Independent Non-Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors.

Dato' Seri Dr Chen Chaw Min, Independent Non-Executive Chairman of Malaysian Genomics

Dato' Alvin Joseph, Executive Director of Malaysian Genomics

The appointment is effective 15 July 2022, following the resignation of Tan Sri Ahmad bin Mohd Don on 12 July 2022.

Dato' Seri Dr Chen, who was appointed to the Board on 3 August 2021, was with the Malaysian civil service from 1988 until his retirement in February 2021. He was the Secretary-General of the Ministry of Health (MOH) from July 2015 until his retirement and has also served in various capacities in the Ministry of Finance (MOF) from 1990 until 2014.

Dato' Seri Dr. Chen said, "I feel privileged to take on this role at such an exciting time for Malaysian Genomics. The Group is currently expanding downstream to healthcare services and pioneering holistic care which will benefit many for the years to come, I hope that my experience in both MOH and MOF will be able to add knowledge and insights to support the Company's growth."

Dato' Alvin Joseph, Executive Director of Malaysian Genomics said, "We welcome Dato' Seri Chen to the Board of Malaysian Genomics as Chairman of the Board and look forward to working with him in ensuring proper governance in our business operations. His extensive experience in the civil service and in particular in MOH will be invaluable to us."

"We would like to extend our thanks to Tan Sri Ahmad bin Mohd Don for his invaluable contributions and guidance to the Board in executing their duties. We wish him all the best in his future endeavours."

Dato' Seri Dr Chen obtained a doctorate in finance from Universiti Putra Malaysia in 2005. He received an MBA (Finance) from University of Illinois in 1997 and a Bachelor in Surveying from University of Technology, Malaysia, in 1985.

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

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