Tag: Regional

New Premium Application Centre for UK Student Visas Opens at Sunway Resort Hotel in Selangor

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA, Aug 1, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – VFS Global, the world's largest outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions, entered into a strategic partnership with the Sunway Resort Hotel in Selangor, Malaysia. Through this alliance, VFS Global aims to offer UK student visa services through its UK Premium Application Centre at the Sunway Resort Hotel in Selangor.

UK student visa customers can now book appointments at the Premium Application Centre to submit their applications and enrol biometrics. This partnership will provide customers residing in and around Selangor with a new location option in addition to the existing free-to-use Visa Application Centres located in Jalan Ampang, Kuala Lumpur.

This is a premium location for customers wishing to apply for their visa in the ambience and comfort of a 5-star hotel. There is a fee of MYR 250 to apply at this location, which includes courier and SMS updates. The fee for this service must be paid online while booking your appointment, before attending the Visa Application Centre.

Jeanne Chan, Director of Commercial, Sunway Resort Hotel, said, "We are delighted to partner with VFS Global for a strategic initiative that offers convenience to UK student visa applicants at our hotel. Through the opening of this new visa centre, we look forward to extending the warm hospitality and exceptional services of the Sunway Resort Hotel and providing customers with convenient access to plan their international travel."

Kaushik Ghosh, Head ? Australasia, VFS Global, said, "The partnership with the Sunway Resort Hotel in Selangor provides additional and conveniently located touchpoints to our customers. UK student visa customers will continue to enjoy the same comfort, convenience, and best-in-class services at this new location that they do at our Visa Application Centres, as well as experience the comfort and hospitality offered by the Sunway Resort Hotel."

VFS Global has enjoyed a long-standing relation with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) in Malaysia since 2004, offering UK visa services through centres in Kuala Lumpur.

For more information, please visit https://visa.vfsglobal.com/mys/en/gbr.

Student visa applications from Malaysia in 2022 rebounded to pre-pandemic levels, reiterating early recovery in international travel. According to VFS Global, student visa application in 2022 were 4% higher than the volumes in 2019. Applications were 38% higher in comparison to 2021 as many international borders were closed with pandemic-induced travel restrictions and international university campuses operated hybrid schedules.

More than 7,220 Malaysian nationals were issued a Student visa to study in the UK in 2022 (www.gov.uk/government/statistics/immigration-system-statistics-year-ending-december-2022), just shy of pre-pandemic numbers in 2019. Given the travel restrictions in 2020 and 2021, the number of visas issued in this category in 2022 rose by 3,000 and 500, respectively.

About VFS Global

VFS Global is the world's largest outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions. VFS Global is the trusted partner of 68 client governments, operating a global network with more than 3,300 Application Centres in 145 countries. The company has processed over 264 million applications since its inception in 2001. The company manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport, and consular services for its client governments, enabling them to focus entirely on the critical assessment task. VFS Global has its headquarters in Zurich/Switzerland and Dubai/United Arab Emirates.

VFS Global is majority-owned by funds managed by Blackstone, the world's largest alternative asset manager. Blackstone seeks to create positive economic impact and long-term value for their investors, the companies in which they invest, and the communities in which they work. Blackstone's USD 991 billion in assets under management include investment vehicles focused on private equity, real estate, public debt and equity, infrastructure, life sciences, growth equity, opportunistic, non-investment grade credit, real assets, and secondary funds, all on a global basis.

The Swiss-based Kuoni and Hugentobler Foundation and EQT, a global investment organisation, headquartered in Stockholm/Sweden, hold minority stakes in VFS Global.

Media Contact
PRecious Communications
Sharifah Nurafiqah Jamalaulil
+6013 221 7269
sharifah@preciouscomms.com

Abdul Azim
+60106539949
azim@preciouscomms.com

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

Signing Contracts for US$49.3M, PIS (Pertamina) Now Sails across 26 International Routes

DUBAI, Jul 31, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – PT Pertamina International Shipping (PIS), through its branch office in Dubai, PIS Middle East (PIS ME), has achieved another success by simultaneously signing four business cooperation agreements with global players.
PIS Pte Ltd (DMCC Branch) – PIS Middle East has signed business cooperation agreements with global players, namely with Gas Walio, Gas Widuri, Gas Arjuna and Gas Ambalat, for 4 vessels owned by PIS.

Erwin Paulian Sihombing, Commercial, PIS Pte Ltd (DMCC Branch) – PIS ME; Ugo Romano, Managing Director, Scorpio MENA DMCC (Neptune Pool); Andra Otmansyah Pelawi, Country Manager & Middle East Representative, PIS Pte Ltd (DMCC Branch) – PIS ME [L-R]


PIS ME signed the deals for 4 vessels owned by PIS – namely the Gas Walio vessel, Gas Widuri vessel, Gas Arjuna and Gas Ambalat vessels. The Gas Arjuna and Ambalat vessels are chartered by SHV Gas Supply & Risk Management, the Gas Walio vessel is chartered by Geogas Trading S.A, and the Gas Widuri vessel is chartered by Vitol S.A.

"The signing of this cooperation signifies the success of PIS ME's aggressiveness in increasing revenue in the international market, as well as proving the reliability of PIS's fleet which is qualified to sail in global scale waters," said PIS CEO Yoki Firnandi at the signing ceremony on Tuesday, July 25.

The total transaction value for the four ship deal reached US$49.34 million, or the equivalent to Rp740.15 billion (dollar exchange rate of Rp15,000) with different contract durations ranging from 6 months to 3 years. The contracts also provided for new international routes and countries for the PIS fleet, including Chile (South America), Puerto Rico (USA), Dominican Republic (Caribbean), Tanzania, Poland, and Portugal.

Country Manager of PIS ME Andra Pelawi added that in addition to the successful commercialization of the four vessels, PIS ME has broken new business ground which will add to the company's revenue potential. "Pertamina has, through PIS ME, entered Tankers International Pool, and a TC Syndication scheme with Scorpio for a Neptune VLGC vessel in the pool. PIS will have the potential for vessel rental at international market rates," he said.

Through this breakthrough scheme by PIS, carried out initially during the second quarter of 2023 (since the VLGC vessel entered the pool in early May, through to the end of the quarter), PIS ME managed to realize a profit of around US$865 thousand, or the equivalent to Rp12.97 billion (dollar exchange rate of Rp15,000).

About PT Pertamina International Shipping (PIS) Pte Ltd

PT Pertamina International Shipping (PIS) as an Integrated Marine Logistics Subholding, has a total of 750 ships. Besides the owned ships, PIS also manages time charter and spot charter that can be rented through e-chartering. PIS ME is the second representative branch office of PIS located abroad, being established December 23, 2022. See https://pertamina-pis.com/.

Media Contact:
Muh. Aryomekka Firdaus
Corporate Secretary
M: +62 0811-872-272
E: aryomekka@pertamina.com

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

LAC FullCal and LAC Joint Protec: Stronger Bones and Healthier Joints for Pregnant/Postpartum Mothers

SINGAPORE, Jul 31, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Gazing at the pregnancy test kit, as the faint double-lines slowly appear, can be an emotional rollercoaster of happiness and trepidation. Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it also comes with its fair share of physical challenges, especially within the joints and bones, as the body adjusts itself to accommodate a new life growing within.


As pregnancy progresses, development of symptoms like the Pelvic Girdle Pain often becomes a constant companion, causing nagging pain in the back and hips, ranging from mild ache to severe limitations in daily activities, no thanks to the influx of the relaxin hormone within the body, along with the extra weight that a pregnant mother carries.

The developing fetus also requires a considerable amount of calcium to form bones and teeth, and with a deficiency in the mother's calcium metabolism, the baby will draw what it needs from the mother's bones, leading to sudden drops in bone density and an increased risk of fractures even without falling.

To reduce the painful and potentially lasting effects of pregnancy, it is important for women to consume a balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and other nutrients that support bone health, which brings us to the latest developments by LAC – LAC FullCal and LAC Joint Protec to help optimise musculoskeletal health.

The LAC FullCal and LAC Joint Protec are perfect forms of supplements to add to a new mother's daily diet. With a gold standard 2:1 calcium to magnesium ratio for optimal calcium absorption and metabolism, LAC FullCal is also enriched with other beneficial co-nutrients like fish collagen, and Vit C & E to support joint health, making it an all-rounded calcium supplement.

Alongside LAC FullCal, LAC Joint Protec is a complementary supplement to help boost joint health, and alleviate the symptoms brought about by joint weakness. Consisting of key ingredients like glucosamine, chondroitin and collagen to promote cartilage repair, Joint Protec minimises friction between the joints for increased mobility. Enhanced with a blend of other beneficial ingredients, such as the cat's claw, bromelain, and calcium lactate to ease joint discomfort and strengthen joints.

LAC FullCal and Joint Protec not only benefit a mother's bone and joint health but also support the healthy growth and development of the growing baby. These supplements aid in preventing bone loss, reducing inflammation, and improving joint function and mobility, leading to relief from joint pain and restricted movements in mothers.

About LAC Global

Headquartered in Singapore, LAC Global is one of Asia's largest speciality retailers in nutritional supplements, vitamins, minerals, herbal, and other speciality supplements in Anti-ageing and Beauty, Immunity, Weight Management, Sports Nutrition, and Energy.

The Company owns the LAC brand, short for Leader in Antioxidative Control(TM), a leading health and wellness supplement brand with a global presence. Since its founding, LAC has embarked on a pioneering journey to develop scientifically based formulas, harnessing the best of eastern wisdom and western technology to fight free radicals, combat ageing brought forth by oxidative stress, and support you daily in looking, feeling, and functioning at your best. Having established a global presence since 1997, LAC's reach includes Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Philippines, China, Japan, Vietnam, Myanmar, USA, Central & South Americas, and the Middle East. Currently, there are more than 220 LAC branded stores in Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines and Taiwan ROC. LAC stringently sources ingredients from around the globe, such as USA, Japan, France, Australia, New Zealand and Switzerland to ensure utmost quality, and works only with the most specialised partners in developing and manufacturing health solutions.

Its other brands include Xndo Food For Health. LAC Global is dedicated to ensuring consumers stay well, and live life to the fullest.

Website: LAC.sg
Instagram: @LACGlobalSingapore
Facebook: @LACGlobalSingapore

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

Nearly 1 million visitors flock to Hong Kong Book Fair

HONG KONG, Jul 25, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – The 33rd HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, 6th Sports and Leisure Expo, and 3rd World of Snacks, all organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), drew to a successful close today. The seven-day event attracted nearly one million visitors, of which 10% were tourists. Book Fair visitors spent an average of HK$872 (US$112) per person. Close to 780 exhibitors from 36 countries and regions participated in the three events, offering the public a diverse and extraordinary summer experience.
The 33rd HKTDC Hong Kong Book Fair, 6th Sports and Leisure Expo, and 3rd World of Snacks
drew nearly one million visitors in total


Sophia Chong, Acting Executive Director of the HKTDC, said: "We are thrilled to announce the resounding success of this year's Hong Kong Book Fair, Sports and Leisure Expo, and World of Snacks. The full reopening of Hong Kong has resulted in a surge in participation from citizens and tourists alike, with numerous mainland and overseas authors and exhibitors attending in person. The government's distribution of consumption vouchers has also fueled citizens' eagerness to spend at the three exhibitions, contributing to the vibrant and lively ambience of the events. This year's Book Fair, with its focus on Children's and Young Adult Literature, has staged a diverse range of cultural activities and seminars. Thanks to the sponsorship of Create Hong Kong* (CreateHK) of the Government of the HKSAR, we have established a brand new World of Art & Culture zone, with the aim of introducing literature and cultural arts from all over the world to a broad reader base. Our ultimate goal is to promote a city-wide reading culture and position Hong Kong as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange."

Fiction, comics, travel, children's books and literature most popular genres

Over 800 visitors were interviewed by a research institute commissioned by the HKTDC to glean insights into their reading and spending habits. Respondents spent an average HK$872 at the fair this year, the survey showed. Remarkably, this comprised 70% of their HK$1,254 average annual expenditure on printed books. These findings underscore the Book Fair's pivotal role as a platform for book enthusiasts to acquire their beloved reads.

The survey also shed light on respondents' reading habits, revealing that an overwhelming 96% had read printed books within the past month, with an average reading time of 16 hours. Fiction emerged as the most popular book category, with 52% of respondents indicating their interest, followed by comics (26%), travel (20%), children's and young-adult books (20%), and literature (19%). The categories of self-improvement, enrichment, art and music, and inspirational books also garnered significant interest. E-books were also popular, with 65% of respondents having read e-books within the past month, averaging nine hours of reading time during that period. Most respondents (59%) visited the Book Fair to buy new books, while 49% enjoyed discounts offered at the fair. Additionally, 25% joined the diverse cultural activities, with 18% intending to buy children's books.

Cultural July events continue with fair highlights available for viewing

The fair featured more than 600 seminars and cultural events held both onsite and offsite, including the Eight Seminar Series. Running in parallel the Cultural July: Joyful Summer Reading campaign, held across Hong Kong, drew more than 350,000 participants.

Recordings of selected seminars are available online. Readers can revisit them through the Book Fair website or the HKTDC's Youtube channel. This year's Book Fair has concluded but Cultural July continues until 31 July, with a range of sharing sessions, talks and book launches in all 18 districts of Hong Kong. Details can be found on the Cultural July website – http://www.hkbookfair.hktdc.com/CulturalJuly

The Cultural Journey Online is also available on the Book Fair website, gathering e-reading resources and activities like virtual seminars and exhibitions from our partners which include: SHKP Reading Club's Read For More, Hong Kong Public libraries, Culture is…, Google Arts & Culture, encouraging citizens to expand their horizons and promoting a reading culture.

Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks well received

Offering a wide selection of sports and leisure products and services, along with more than 1,200 tasty treats and snacks, the Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and World of Snacks are also concluded today. The former featured free trials and interactive experiences while the latter offered visitors delicacies from around the world, along with workshops, activities and tasting sessions. Both events were enthusiastically received.

The three events launched the series of HKTDC exhibitions in the second-half of this year. In the coming months, the HKTDC will continue to host a diverse range of large-scale exhibitions to support and strengthen Hong Kong's economy across different sectors. Next month, visitors can expect to enjoy the Food Expo, Food Expo Pro, Home Delights Expo, Beauty & Wellness Expo, and Hong Kong International Tea Fair. September will bring CENTRESTAGE and Hong Kong Watch & Clock Fair, as well as the Belt and Road Summit, while October is set to feature the Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition), Hong Kong Electronics Fair (Autumn Edition), and Eco Expo Asia. In November, the HKTDC will host the Hong Kong International Wine and Spirits Fair, Hong Kong International Optical Fair, and Asian Logistics, Maritime and Aviation Conference. Finally, December will feature the Business of IP Asia Forum and Chill 11.

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

Photo Download: https://bit.ly/3DrR5AI
Book Fair video playlist: https://bit.ly/3Q580Ay

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
Should members of the press have any enquiries, please contact:

Hong Kong Book Fair
Yuan Tung Financial Relations:
Anson Wong, Tel: +852 3428 3413, Email: awong@yuantung.com.hk
Salina Cheng, Tel: +852 3428 5691, Email: salcheng@yuantung.com.hk
Agnes Yiu, Tel: +852 3428 5690, Email: ayiu@yuantung.com.hk

HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Katy Wong, Tel: +852 2584 4524, Email: katy.ky.wong@hktdc.org
Clayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.org
Sunny Ng, Tel: +852 2584 4357, Email: sunny.sl.ng@hktdc.org

Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo, World of Snacks
HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Kate Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4239, Email: kate.hy.chan@hktdc.org

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

OSIM Unveils South Korean Actor Hyun Bin as Ambassador for Next Generation uDream Pro Well-Being Chair

MALAYSIA, Jul 24, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – OSIM, the leading innovator of Wellness Tech products and solutions, has unveiled South Korean actor Hyun Bin as its ambassador for the next generation flagship product – the uDream Pro well-being chair. Imbued with the latest Wellness Tech innovations and designed as a sophisticated style statement, the next generation uDream Pro is the latest articulation of OSIM's best in class well-being solutions.


OSIM solutions span the health, fitness, beauty and gaming sectors and are all designed to enable customers to feel good, stress less, sleep better and live heathier and happier lives. The acclaimed actor is partnering OSIM as the company continues to expand its ecosystem of Wellness Tech solutions.

Ms Chia Sook Fun, General Manager of OSIM Malaysia said, "We are delighted to welcome Hyun Bin as our ambassador. His dedication to his craft and commitment to excellence resonate strongly with our mission to inspire and improve the world's well-being."

OSIM has sought out and partnered with like-minded global brand partners and artistes based on shared values such as innovation and creative excellence – exemplified by this latest partnership with Hyun Bin.

Hyun Bin said, "A perfect day to me is one that strikes a good balance between work and rest. With OSIM's uDream Pro, I am able to enjoy personalized massage techniques with a single touch through artificial intelligence (AI) analysis and relax while stabilizing the various senses of my body with the '5-Senses Experience'. It is a technology that provides suitable management for the condition of each day and helps to lead a healthy daily life."

Focus On Continuing Innovation for The Next Generation Well-being Chair

In its ongoing mission to introduce new innovations to consumers around the world, OSIM has pioneered the use of leading-edge Wellness Tech in its ecosystem of solutions. This move has successfully elevated the traditional massage chair to a new standard in well-being chairs.

Better than a massage chair, the uDream Pro is the world's first well-being chair to incorporate AI in the measuring, monitoring, and managing of stress and fatigue for users. It also features an industry-first innovation designed to enhance an immersive stress relief experience. With just one touch of a button, users are transported to one of three different paradise experiences – Aurora Night, Sunset Beach or Nature Bliss. Senses are awakened through guided massage programs synchronized with relaxing imagery, soothing voice guidance, enchanting music and mood-enhancing ambient lighting. Users can also opt to engage their olfactory sense by using the DreamScent Aroma Pods to complete the five-senses stress relief experience.

Seamlessly weaving OSIM's latest innovations such as AI features with elegantly executed design motifs inspired by nature, the uDream Pro is artfully created with technology and design excellence. It is also integrated with the OSIM Well-Being App to provide users with a total well-being experience that can be measured, monitored and managed in the comfort of their homes.

OSIM Wellness Tech Deploys AI to Deliver Truly Customised De-Stress Programmes

With 14 patented features that combine to create a unique OSIM stress relief experience that cannot be replicated, the uDream Pro harnesses best-in-class technology from OSIM's own R&D labs to address the harmful effects of long-term stress on the human body.

Collaborating with internationally renowned professionals such as cardiothoracic surgeon Dr Thomas Burdon from Stanford University and Japanese chiropractic massage expert Sato Tsuyoshi-san, the uDream Pro uses electrocardiogram technology to accurately measure stress signals of the body, as well as deploys AI-powered biometric algorithms to determine body tension scores. These signals and scores are then analysed to deliver individually customised stress relief programmes that are effective.

Data From uDream Pro Users Indicates Improved Mental And Physical Health

Anonymised body tension scores collected from uDream Pro users before and after each well-being session show a general decline in tension felt[1]. The scores revealed that:

– 78.72% (about 8 in 10 users) experienced an immediate reduction in short-term stress and improved state-of-mind after one use; and
– 87.23% (about 9 in 10 users) experienced a decline in long-term stress and improved overall mental and physical health with repeated use over a period of 6 months.

Hyun Bin Embodies The uDream Pro Vision Of Sophisticated Wellness Technology

A respected, award-winning actor in the entertainment industry and a household name, Hyun Bin is among the most influential actors in South Korea and has captivated audiences with his striking onscreen presence and versatile range of performances. His career spans more than two decades and includes leading roles in internationally popular dramas such as Crash Landing On You and Memories of the Alhambra as well as movies such as Confidential Assignment and The Negotiation.

Hyun Bin shares more about his philosophy to work-life balance and overall well-being in an exclusive OSIM video feature on Youtube.

The new generation OSIM uDream Pro retails in Malaysia at a promotional price from RM436.47 per month with zero interest instalments up to 60 months and it is available at osim.com.my and at all OSIM stores. Visit OSIM stores now to enjoy an extraordinary wellness experience.

OSIM https://www.osim.com.my/

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

Feeling Uneasy for No Reason? Trust Your Gut With LAC

SINGAPORE, Jul 24, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Ever had days where you felt extremely tired after a long day's work, yet suffer from insomnia? How about a gassy and bloated stomach, unexplained skin issues like eczema and rosacea, especially after eating a particular type of food?


You may have a gut feeling that something doesn't feel right within the body, and you might just be right – an unhealthy gut health could possibly be the underlying issue to all of these sporadic, random outbreaks that you cannot find an explanation for.

While gut issues are something that is not widely discussed, one would be surprised that as many as 10 percent of Singaporeans are suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome, a chronic issue that is a typical manifestation of poor gut health. What is more concerning is that while gut health is an important factor to maintain overall health, only 16% of Singaporeans are more likely to focus on consuming digestive health supplements.

Persistent issues that seem trivial and insignificant, such as itchy skin, with or without the onset of eczema, along with chronic fatigue, could also spell liver issues. Contrary to popular belief, poor liver function does not just affect those who consume alcohol. Excessive consumption of fatty foods and even long term medication can also stress and burden the liver, weakening its functions and increasing the risk of liver disease.

LAC, Leader in Antioxidative Control, would like to drive home the importance of gut and liver health through LAC Probiotic Complex 25 Billion CFUs and LAC Activated Liver Protector.

Both products are made with scientifically proven blends of vitamins and minerals to boost the gut and liver health. The LAC Probiotic Complex contains six strains of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium probiotics, the "friendly bacteria" that are important within the human body to maintain a healthy digestive tract.

The LAC Activated Liver Protector, on the other hand, contains a blend of Traditional Chinese Medicinal herbs that can prevent and relieve fatty liver, promote healthy liver function and lower bad blood lipid levels.

Together, both supplements work together to provide support for digestive discomfort and nourishing your gut health from within, encouraging individuals to develop mindful habits of building and maintaining a strong and healthy gut.

About LAC Global

Headquartered in Singapore, LAC Global is one of Asia's largest speciality retailers in nutritional supplements, vitamins, minerals, herbal, and other speciality supplements in Anti-ageing and Beauty, Immunity, Weight Management, Sports Nutrition, and Energy.

The Company owns the LAC brand, short for Leader in Antioxidative Control(TM), a leading health and wellness supplement brand with a global presence. Since its founding, LAC has embarked on a pioneering journey to develop scientifically based formulas, harnessing the best of eastern wisdom and western technology to fight free radicals, combat ageing brought forth by oxidative stress, and support you daily in looking, feeling, and functioning at your best. Having established a global presence since 1997, LAC's reach includes Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Philippines, China, Japan, Vietnam, Myanmar, USA, Central & South Americas, and the Middle East. Currently, there are more than 220 LAC branded stores in Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines and Taiwan ROC. LAC stringently sources ingredients from around the globe, such as USA, Japan, France, Australia, New Zealand and Switzerland to ensure utmost quality, and works only with the most specialised partners in developing and manufacturing health solutions.

Its other brands include Xndo Food For Health. LAC Global is dedicated to ensuring consumers stay well, and live life to the fullest.

Website: LAC.sg
Instagram: @LACGlobalSingapore
Facebook: @LACGlobalSingapore

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

ATTIA Announces the Travel Changemakers Awards Judges Panel

SINGAPORE, July 20, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – The Asia Travel Technology Industry Association (ATTIA) and Web in Travel (WiT) announce who is participating on the Judges Panel for the inaugural Travel Changemakers Awards 2023.

The Awards seek to recognise innovators that have used technology to build back better, post-pandemic, with the winners to be announced at WiT Singapore, 2-4 Oct 2023. Those awarded will demonstrate how they have had respect for the environment, created meaningful engagement with local communities or unearthed hidden gems for travellers to discover. They laud the repurposing of assets rather than building new, and how they demonstrate that diversity and inclusion are critical to building back better.

The prestigious panel consists of imminent industry leaders, as follows.

  • Aya Aso, CEO, SAVVY Collective
  • Rod Cuthbert, Chairperson, Jayride; Board Member, Veltra (Tokyo); Board Member, Tourism Tasmania; Founder, Viator
  • Loic Dujardin, Head of ESG, Traveloka
  • Fred Barou – Senior VP, Online Travel and Market Strategy, Amadeus
  • Kelly Kolb – VP for Government Affairs, Travelport
  • Steven Liew – Director of Public Policy, APAC, Airbnb
  • Choe Peng Sum, CEO, Pan Pacific Hotels Group
  • Aloke Bajpai, Co-Founder, Group CEO and Managing Director, ixigo
  • Elaine Tan, Director, AirAsia Foundation
  • Daniel Gelfer, Director of Global Government Affairs, Agoda
  • Kenneth Lim, Assistant Chief Executive of Marketing Group, Singapore Tourism Board

Chis Kerin, Managing Director, ATTIA says, “We are delighted by the support demonstrated by the travel tech industry for these awards, and are equally thrilled to have assembled such an esteemed judging panel. With their collective expertise, we are confident that the submissions will be held to the highest possible standards.”

“We are delighted with the calibre of judges that have embraced these awards in its first year,” says Yeoh Siew Hoon, Founder, WiT. “It is an honour to recognise those who turned ideas into action and initiated programmes to build back better during the pandemic. They will deservedly get their heyday with these awards, which will demonstrate exactly how the travel, tourism and hospitality industries has taken lessons learned over the pandemic to plan and create a better future for all travellers”.

To enter the Awards, click here

MEDIA CONTACT:
Sheree Tan
Senior Associate, Pinpoint PR
sheree@pinpointpr.sg
+65 8313 9472



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

Restaurant.com Partners with Kevin Harrington

Arlington Heights, IL, July 19, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Kevin Harrington of Shark Tank fame has a reputation for being fiercely selective in who he lends his name to. So when he partnered up with Restaurant.com, it was presumably because he saw something special in the business. Let’s take a look at what that special something was, and why it could mean Restaurant.com (OTCQB: RSTN) is one of the most undervalued opportunities on the market right now.

When Shark Tank’s Kevin Harrington explained why he partnered with Restaurant.com, the announcement contained one key phrase.

“[Restaurant] owners are getting the business they need, and customers get savings, and that’s what they want.”

On the face of it, it’s a relatively innocuous snippet from a speech that touched on grand concepts like trust and innovation. But, if we dig into it just a little, it reveals why Restaurant.com (RDE, Inc. | OTCQB: RSTN) might just be one of the most under-valued, under-the-radar companies right now.

In a moment, we’ll take a look. But first, here’s the man himself, Kevin Harrington.

First, Let’s Talk About Creating Value

There’s a common piece of advice given out in life and business — if you want to make money, create value, then capture it.

But, as everyone knows, that’s easier said than done.

Of course, hard doesn’t mean impossible. That’s why, over the years, common methods for thinking about value have emerged. One of the most common here is the problem-solution framework.

For those who’ve never heard of the problem-solution framework before, the concept is rather simple. Identify a problem, and provide a solution. If you can do that, then people will flock to you. It’s just basic common sense.

Second, Let’s Talk About What Restaurant.com Actually Does

We won’t delve into all the intricacies of the Restaurant.com platform here. But before we move on to dissecting the significance of Kevin Harrington’s statement, we do need to at least understand the fundamentals of what Restaurant.com does.

So let’s take a quick interlude to cover the basics. If you’re already familiar with the platform (millions already are), feel free to skip ahead.

Restaurant.com in a Nutshell: Restaurant.com connects diners with restaurants. It provides restaurants with a comprehensive marketing platform. And it provides diners with discounted restaurant dining experiences.

Restaurant.com For Diners

How this looks in practice for a diner is pretty simple. By simply browsing through the Restaurant.com platform, diners can locate dozens of restaurants in their location. Then, once they find something that appeals to them, they can then proceed to purchase a dining certificate at that restaurant at a steep discount.

Here’s one example offer:

Restaurant.com For Restaurants

As for how this looks for restaurants, that’s a bit more involved. But first, let’s just get one thing clear. Restaurant.com is a lot more than a crude platform for promoting simple one-off discounts.

In reality, once we scratch the surface of the simple discount offers and user interface, what we find in Restaurant.com is actually a sophisticated “Martech” (marketing tech) platform for restaurants.

For now, we’re simply going to gloss over what being a restaurant martech platform means. After all, we’re really here to discuss what Kevin Harrington saw in Restaurant.com. But, to give a brief overview, the Martech side of Restaurant.com includes two key components.

Restaurant Marketing Component #1: The first of these is a remarketing tool. For those who don’t know, remarketing is basically what happens when you browse something on Amazon and suddenly see ads for it everywhere. Restaurant.com provides a similarly powerful tool to restaurants, with the key difference being that its remarketing is conducted through email rather than online ads.

Restaurant Marketing Component #2: The second key component of the Restaurant.com Martech offering is its affiliate marketing platform. Again, to use Amazon.com as an example, affiliate marketing is what drives the thousands of blogs and websites out there recommending products on Amazon.com to do so. If those blogs can successfully convince you to buy something on Amazon.com, Amazon rewards the affiliate with a cut of the sale. Restaurant.com does the same with its affiliates.

What’s Any of This Got to Do With Kevin Harrington and Restaurant.com?

If you’ve been paying attention, there’s a good chance you’ve picked up on why that one innocuous phrase Kevin Harrington made means so much.

But just to make sure we’re all on the same page, let me spell it out for you.

Problem: Every restaurant owner wants more customers. But most marketing is difficult, expensive, and comes with zero guarantees.

Solution: Provide a zero-risk marketing platform that drives diners to their tables and only charges them for successful conversions.

And there you have it — the value-generating problem-solution statement for Restaurant.com. Except, there’s just one problem. We’re forgetting the back half of the Kevin Harrington statement. The part about customers getting what they want.

As a reminder, here’s Harrington’s key phrase once again: “[Restaurant] owners are getting the business they need, and customers get savings, and that’s what they want.”

If you break this statement down, there are actually two possible problems and two possible solutions hidden in there. The first, we already touched on.

As for the second problem-solution, here it is.

Problem: Most people would love to dine out more often, but not everyone can afford it.

Solution: Offer a way to dine out for less.

In a nutshell, Restaurant.com has essentially hacked the value-generating equation in a way we rarely see. By effectively killing two birds with one stone, Restaurant.com has tapped into two both sides of an absolutely massive market (we’re literally talking about hundreds of billions a year in the US alone, and trillions globally).

Guess there’s no surprise now why Kevin Harrington chose to partner with Restaurant.com.

Now Here’s Why Restaurant.com Is Deeply Undervalued

By now, it’s pretty clear that Restaurant.com has tapped into an extreme value-creating proposition. But if you cast your mind back to the start of the article, I also mentioned that Restaurant.com is deeply undervalued.

Here’s why.

When RDE, Inc. (OTCQB: RSTN) acquired Restaurant.com back in March 2020, the timing could not have been worse. After all, that was right about the time Covid-19 started decimating the restaurant trade, along with everything else.

Over the course of that year, the company traded for around the $1 a share mark, give or take. By 2021, that had picked up to about the $3 a share mark. As a reminder, the restaurant trade was still in a full-blown crisis at this stage, with many states still imposing harsh sanitary measures.

Fast forward to today, and RDE, Inc. is still trading at, you guessed it, around about the $3 a share mark. And that’s despite business more or less returning to normal, a full-blown cost of living crisis driving more consumers than ever to seek out discounted options, and a substantial growth in traffic to the platform (just last month alone, Restaurant.com jumped 21 places in its category ranking on similarweb.com).

And let’s not forget there are revenue figures to back this up (RDE, Inc. grew its annual revenues by almost 34% between 2021 and 2022).

In other words, in Restaurant.com we find:

  • Extreme value creation by addressing two sides of a massive market at once.
  • A deeply undervalued company given the current lack of a full recovery in its post-Covid stock price.
  • An enduring cost of living crisis which has resulted in substantial growth in consumer demand for Restaurant.com.

Essentially, what we have is one of those rare opportunities to capture an undervalued asset at an opportune moment.

For more information on RED, Inc. and Restaurant.com, visit:

About Restaurant.com

Restaurant.com offers marketing incentives for more than 20,000 restaurants across the United States, including multiple coupon options and is owned by RDE Holdings (OTCQB: RSTN)

Media Contact:
Plato Data Intelligence
144 E44th St
New York NY 10017
PlatoAiStream.com
Zephyr@platodata.io

(Featured image by Spencer Davis via Unsplash)

DISCLAIMER: This article was written by a third party contributor and does not reflect the opinion of Born2Invest, its management, staff or its associates. Please review our disclaimer for more information.

This article may include forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words “believe,” “project,” “estimate,” “become,” “plan,” “will,” and similar expressions. These forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks as well as uncertainties, including those discussed in the following cautionary statements and elsewhere in this article and on this site. Although the Company may believe that its expectations are based on reasonable assumptions, the actual results that the Company may achieve may differ materially from any forward-looking statements, which reflect the opinions of the management of the Company only as of the date hereof. Additionally, please make sure to read these important disclosures.



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

LAC Taut(R) Radiance+ Premium Collagen Mask and LAC(R) BrainSpeed: Supplements That Work for The Busy Women

SINGAPORE, Jul 18, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – In this fast moving society, there seems to be a never ending list of things to do – juggling work, housework, family and children. When the going gets tough, and the clock feels like it is being set to fast-forward, it is almost natural to take time off to care for ourselves.


Maintaining better health from the inside out should be the priority of a busy woman, and it should not be a time-consuming, cumbersome process. LAC, the Leader in Antioxidative Control(TM), introduces its LAC Taut(R) Radiance+ Premium Collagen Mask and LAC(R) BrainSpeed. The fast-acting, efficient formulas of these products not only nourishes a busy woman skin deep, but also nutrifies the brains, improving focus and concentration for the hectic everyday-life.

LAC Taut(R) Radiance+ Premium Collagen Mask

The LAC Taut(R) Radiance+ Premium Collagen Mask is not only a luxurious and high-intensity treat for tired, dehydrated skin, its premium collagen-enriched essence is set to rejuvenate skin textures within a mere seven to ten minutes. Specially formulated with a unique and concentrated blend of hydrolyzed collagen, squalane, hyaluronic acid and antioxidants, skin instantly feels velvety smooth, supple and lifted.

LAC(R) BrainSpeed

Managing multiple roles often causes us to lose focus and concentration. Also, as we age, so do our brains.

LAC(R) BrainSpeed invigorates the brain for optimal mental performance with its advanced brain formula. Made with nourishing ingredients containing Ginkgo leaf extract with 24% Ginkgo flavone glycosides and Vitamin B3, BrainSpeed is the perfect supplement to energise the brain by promoting blood and oxygen circulation.

Fast-acting and effective, this energising formula is packaged into caplets. With only a simple step added to our daily regime, BrainSpeed helps the busiest women reduce instances of forgetfulness, promotes ability to cope with mental stress and healthy mood balance, allowing them to take on the world.

About LAC Global

Headquartered in Singapore, LAC Global is one of Asia's largest speciality retailers in nutritional supplements, vitamins, minerals, herbal, and other speciality supplements in Anti-ageing and Beauty, Immunity, Weight Management, Sports Nutrition, and Energy.

The Company owns the LAC brand, short for Leader in Antioxidative Control(TM), a leading health and wellness supplement brand with a global presence. Since its founding, LAC has embarked on a pioneering journey to develop scientifically based formulas, harnessing the best of eastern wisdom and western technology to fight free radicals, combat ageing brought forth by oxidative stress, and support you daily in looking, feeling, and functioning at your best. Having established a global presence since 1997, LAC's reach includes Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan, Philippines, China, Japan, Vietnam, Myanmar, USA, Central & South Americas, and the Middle East. Currently, there are more than 220 LAC branded stores in Singapore, Malaysia, Philippines and Taiwan ROC. LAC stringently sources ingredients from around the globe, such as USA, Japan, France, Australia, New Zealand and Switzerland to ensure utmost quality, and works only with the most specialised partners in developing and manufacturing health solutions.

Its other brands include Xndo Food For Health. LAC Global is dedicated to ensuring consumers stay well, and live life to the fullest.

Website: LAC.sg
Instagram: @LACGlobalSingapore
Facebook: @LACGlobalSingapore

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

Think Business, Think Hong Kong concluded successfully

BANGKOK, Jul 17, 2023 – (ACN Newswire) – Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the signature promotion event in Bangkok, Think Business, Think Hong Kong (TBTHK), on 13-14 July received an enthusiastic response from Thai government officials and business leaders.
Think Business, Think Hong Kong in Bangkok, organised by the HKTDC, received enthusiastic response
from Thai government and business leaders, attracting over 2,000 buyers from 8 ASEAN countries,
including their local chambers and associations

The exclusive Hong Kong Night Cocktail Reception was held on the first day of the event, for Thai,
ASEAN and Hong Kong business leaders to network and explore business opportunities

Smart City Consortium of Hong Kong and Digital Economy Promotion Agency of Thailand signed a
memorandum of understanding on the first day. The two parties will deepen smart city development
cooperation through a series of promotional campaigns


The two-day event attracted more than 2,000 buyers from 8 ASEAN countries, including their local chambers and associations, underscoring their interest in leveraging Hong Kong as a gateway to expand their business worldwide. This signature promotion event showcased Hong Kong's strengths and highlighted the city's latest developments and quality products and services, while demonstrating its role as a leading international business hub.

The exclusive Hong Kong Night Cocktail Reception held on the first day of the event brought together Thai, ASEAN and Hong Kong business leaders to network and explore business opportunities. Dr Peter K N Lam, HKTDC Chairman, opened the event, with Mr Algernon Yau, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, and Dr Chadchart Sittipunt, Governor of Bangkok, delivering speeches.

Dr Lam said: "We bring to Bangkok this time a focus on lifestyle. We also have experts sharing insights on e-commerce, sustainability and ESG and the future of retail at a series of Trade Talks, all topics of interest to Thai businesses and in line with Thailand's BCG growth strategy. Hong Kong's position as the gateway between the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and ASEAN, both fast-growing areas, provide many opportunities for Thai businesses and reinforce Hong Kong-Thailand economic ties."

Mr. Yau said that the ties between Hong Kong and Thailand have flourished over the years, fostering a robust partnership that has propelled mutual growth. Mr Yau highlighted Hong Kong's strengths in business under the one country, two systems principle: "By capitalising on our unique strengths, Hong Kong connects global investors with promising projects along the Belt and Road, while at the same time fostering collaboration and innovation within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area."

Dr Sittipunt said: "Bangkok and Hong Kong are undoubtedly two thriving cities in Asia, each with its unique strengths and advantages. I would like to emphasise that our true potential lies in working together. By pooling our strengths, expertise, and resources, be it from the government, public or private sectors, we can create more opportunities and foster a business ecosystem that attracts investments, drives innovation and supports emerging industries in our region."

Thai companies sourced new and innovative quality lifestyle products and services from 120 Hong Kong exhibitors at the TBTHK Trade Expo. The Expo featured products and services from a wide range of sectors in fashion & lifestyle, health & wellness, home & living, toys & gadgets and smart city solutions, over 80% of which were new to the Thai market.

It was the first time for Hong Kong exhibitor EDIT & EDITECTURE to join TBTHK, which marked their debut in the Thai market. Ms Jacqueline Chak, Co-founder and Director of the company, which focuses on sustainable interior and architecture projects, said they joined the event to explore networking opportunities and find potential partners. "The result of the event has honestly exceeded our expectations. We see a lot of interest in what we do, even those outside of the design industry, like makeup and construction. An attendee said that they have been following us from overseas, but never reached out due to the high shipping expenses. It's nice to know that we can finally come here and do business directly in Thailand."

B. DUCK, the Hong Kong original brand and one of the largest domestic character IPs in Mainland China, also joined the event. Ms Rossukhon Lertvilai, Marketing Manager, said: "There are a lot of people who showed interest in our brand. We're looking for new partners and new opportunities in Thailand."

Central Food Retail Company Limited is the leading supermarket chain in Thailand operating since 1996. The company's Head of Sales and Product Development, Ms Maythinee Surapatatna said: "This is my first time joining an event like this and I find the Expo very impressive. As a buyer, I'm looking for ways to produce supplements products and it's not easy to find suppliers in Thailand, so I'm happy for this opportunity. Attending these events, I've found potential partners."

Riding on the Trade Expo, a series of Trade Talks was held, covering retail technology, licensing opportunities, e-commerce and cross-border logistics as well as sustainability & ESG. Experts from renowned retail groups, associations and innovative companies shared their market insights during the two-day event.

During the session of Innovating the Future of Retail – Empowering Business with Technology, one of the speakers Mr Anson Balley, Head of Consumer & Retail, APAC of KPMG China, pointed out that artificial intelligence (AI) will become the most disruptive technology. However, areas such as IoT security, virtual events, digital twins, sustainable fashion and packaging will be the next generation of companies.

"Everything is going to be connected in the future. So, if we look at IoT devices, in the next 2 years, there will be nearly 31 billion connected devices. So, everything will be connected like never before."

To highlight Hong Kong's dynamic lifestyle and wide variety of design-led products and fashion, the HKTDC partnered with Hong Kong-linked merchants and restaurants in Bangkok to stage a citywide promotion, providing Thai consumers with a range of promotional offers until the end of July. Participating merchants include well-known brands, such as Kam's Roast, Maxim's, City Chain and more. In collaboration with LINE MAN, the leading online food delivery platform in Thailand, select Hong Kong-style restaurants have exclusive dining offers until the end of the month as well.

Website
– Think Business, Think Hong Kong: https://www.thinkbusinessthinkhk.com/bangkok2023/en
– Trade Talks Programme: https://www.thinkbusinessthinkhk.com/bangkok2023/en/programe/trade_talk_programme.html
– Photo download: https://rb.gy/66ciw

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:
Midas Communications International Co., Ltd.
Nawaporn Rojarayanont, Tel: 097-250-1603, Email: nawaporn@midas-pr.com
Wanrawee Kongkraphan, Tel: 088-887-9718, Email: namtarn@midas-pr.com

HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs Department:
Janet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.org
Agnes Wat, Tel: +852 2584 4554, Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.org

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