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President Joko Widodo Launches Indonesia’s 2023 ASEAN Chairmanship

JAKARTA, Jan 30, 2023 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The Kick Off of Indonesia's Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2023 was held at the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout on Sunday (29/01) morning. The event was marked by a rebana biang musical instrument struck by President Joko Widodo at the Hotel Indonesia Roundabout, witnessed by thousands of people. President Joko Widodo expressed optimism that ASEAN will remain relevant, create a peaceful and stable Indo Pacific, and become a centre of economic growth.President Joko Widodo (middle) is hitting tambourine as a sign to kick off Indonesia's 2023 ASEAN Chairmanship at Hotel Indonesia Roundabout in Jakarta, Sunday (January 29, 2023). Under his leadership, the President is optimistic that ASEAN will keep growing and being regionally and globally contributive.The Kick Off event was a collaboration between the Jakarta Provincial Government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Coinciding with the Motor Vehicle Free Day (HBKB), the atmosphere appeared different and livelier than usual with the Nusantara Parade. The parade line-up was colourful and lively, consisting of marching bands, carnival outfits, percussion music groups, and Jakarta art groups, such as Betawi dancers and ondel-ondel. After a leisurely bike ride accompanied by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Acting Governor of DKI Jakarta, and a number of Ministers, President Joko Widodo joined the parade line in front of Sarinah, walking together towards the HI Roundabout.The parade involved more than 500 people from various representative groups, namely Mawar Budaya group, Jakarta Music House, DKI Jakarta Paskibra, students from a number of Jakarta high schools, Altajuru music group, Firefighters and SSY. Also participating in the parade were Ambassadors of friendly countries and representatives of international organisations. The joy of HBKB was further enhanced by the presence of an entertainment stage enlivened by a number of artists, including Rara Lida, Putra Lida and Maria Callista.The handover of ASEAN Chairmanship from Cambodia to Indonesia took place at the 42nd ASEAN Summit in Phnom Penh last November 2022. Indonesia's ASEAN Chairmanship period began on 1 January 2023 and will last for a year until 31 December 2023. As one of the founding countries of ASEAN and the largest country in ASEAN, many parties rely on Indonesia to be able to make various breakthroughs and innovations in dealing with various world problems that are also faced by the region.Through the theme of the ASEAN Chairmanship, namely: "ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth", Indonesia is determined to direct ASEAN cooperation in 2023 to continue and strengthen ASEAN's relevance in responding to regional and global challenges, and strengthen ASEAN's position as the epicentre of regional economic growth, for the prosperity of the people of ASEAN.The kick-off was held ahead of the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' meeting on 3-4 February 2023, which will take place at the ASEAN Secretariat Building, Jakarta.--Antara Copyright 2023 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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Indonesia encourages ASEAN-EU partnership conducted based on equality

JAKARTA, Dec 18, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Indonesian President Joko Widodo attended the 45th ASEAN-European Union (EU) Commemorative Summit held in Brussels, Belgium on Wednesday (December 14).In his remarks at the Summit, President Jokowi stressed that the partnership between ASEAN and the European Union countries must be based on equality and there should be no coercion. "If we want to build a better partnership, that partnership must be based on equality and without coercion. There can no longer be parties who always dictate and think that their standard is better than others," he stated. Jokowi said that the 45 years of ASEAN and the European Union partnership had produced some good results.However, he also acknowledged that not all partnerships can always be good so that some differences must be resolved to create a good one. Therefore, Jokowi asked member countries of the European Union to be able to partner in equality with ASEAN countries.President Widodo had encouraged that the good relation and economic cooperation between the two regional organizations and all countries in the two regions must continue to be strengthened.Earlier, he also stated that Indonesia has always encouraged closer cooperation between ASEAN and the EU, who has been an important trading partner of ASEAN. "The trade value between ASEAN and the European Union in 2021 reached US$268.9 billion. The value is the third largest after China and the United States," he said.Apart from trade, Jokowi also mentioned that the European Union also plays an important role in foreign direct investment in ASEAN region, with an investment value of up to US$26 billion in 2021, which is the second largest investment after China. Vice versa, ASEAN is an increasingly important partner for the EU given the region's steady economic growth.For decades, ASEAN has become an economic powerhouse that offers mutually beneficial cooperation since it has the productivity advantage from each country in the region. "All projections say that Southeast Asia will remain a center of growth. Thus, the partnership with ASEAN will certainly be profitable," Jokowi pointed out.In fact, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) estimates that the ASEAN region's economy will remain stable with growth reaching 4.3 percent amid the possibility of a multidimensional crisis at the global level in 2023.Such an estimation is also reflected on the theme that Indonesia will carry out during its chairmanship in ASEAN next year -- "ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth", with three priority agendas, namely recovery-rebuilding, digital transformation, and sustainability.Based on survey from the EU-ASEAN Business Council, some 63 percent of respondents view ASEAN as the region with the best economic opportunities. Meanwhile, 69 percent of respondents expect the ASEAN market to become more important in terms of global revenue in the next two years. Moreover, some 97 percent of respondents expressed hope that negotiation of the ASEAN-EU free trade agreement (FTA) will be accelerated and make good progress to be concluded.Therefore, regarding the ASEAN-EU long standing relationship, President Jokowi urged all countries in the two regions to build an equal and mutually beneficial partnership in order to recover from the pandemic and the multidimensional crisis that both are currently facing. "We learned an important lesson... that to grow and to prosper together is the only option. We don't only have to move forward together, but we also have to move forward equally. Let us have a better future together," Jokowi concluded.Written by: Yuni Arisandy Sinaga, Editor: Fardah Assegaf (c) ANTARA 2022 Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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ASEAN Ceramics 2022 celebrates its return as the Ceramic Hub of Southeast Asia in Bangkok

The resumption of the leading and only regional exhibition for CeramicsMore than 100 exhibitors and brands globallyThe trade fair consisting of exhibitions and its holistic supporting programs attracted 2,128 attendees spanning from nearly 30 countriesBANGKOK, Dec 16, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Once again, the ASEAN Ceramics trade fair has successfully established its status as the meeting point of the Ceramics Industry. Inaugurated by His Excellency Dr. Surapol Chamatr, Deputy Permanent Secretary of Ministry of Industry of Thailand with Mr. Paolo Dionisi, Ambassador of The Embassy of Italy and Giuseppe Lamacchia, Trade Commissioner of Italian Trade Agency, the show opened its doors to over 100 exhibitors and brands and 2,128 attendees from nearly 30 countries attended the event from 30 November – 02 December 2022. The top 5 international visitors came from ASEAN 82.4%, Asia 10.2%, Europe 4.0% and others 1.6% with the largest footprints coming from India, Vietnam, Malaysia, Japan, Singapore and Indonesia. The exhibition is a continuation of its previous editions to reunite the Ceramic Industry in support of providing the ASEAN region with access to the world's leading technologies, equipment, solutions, know-how and best practices available in the market. Suppliers of the industry were able to meet, network and showcase their expertise to the key buyers and trade visitors, and have successfully strengthened and re-established their foothold in the world's most dynamic region for the ceramics industry.The trade fair calls for a significant regathering of the industry, and its positive turnout reflects the strength and commitment of the sector to reconnect after the pandemic. As highlighted by several exhibitors and trade visitors, a platform such as ASEAN Ceramics is still undoubtedly the best way to network and gain exposure to a global reach in the shortest amount of time. Michael Wilton, CEO & Managing Director of MMI Asia Pte Ltd and organiser of the exhibition, emphasized, "It is heartening to witness the regathering of the Ceramics Industry after the years of restrictions on physical meetings, be it for business or socially. There is a strength in this reunion as it reflects the sector's commitment and pursuit for knowledge to support the overall growth of Ceramics in the Southeast Asian region."This edition of ASEAN Ceramics was in partnership with the ICTA2022 Conference which held technical presentations on Ceramic Industrial Technology, Glass and Coatings Technology, Advanced Ceramics and Ceramic Art and Design. Exhibitors were also invited to demonstrate their products in the Exhibition Seminar where the latest digitalisations, machineries, technologies and products were showcased to trade visitors and key buyers of various industries from Construction & Housing (bricks & roof tiles, wall & floor tiles, sanitary ware, clay) Consumer Goods (table & ornamental ware, household appliances), Industrial Applications (abrasives & refractories), High-Tech and Innovation such as Healthcare, Electronics, Security & Transport and Renewable Technologies and more.The trade fair included several side events such as – a pre-event Factory Tour, Job & Education Fair, CICT Manufacturers' Pavilion, Technical Ceramics Pavilion and a Ceramics Workshop, which offered visitors a holistic experience of current technologies and trending developments in the market. Both MMI Asia and Asian Exhibition Services joined forces to take ASEAN Ceramics to a new international level of excellence in Bangkok.Various solutions, technologies and state of the art machineries were demonstrated at the event which include:- Five Innovative product line market strategy such as DigitalGlass and KRYSTAL provided globally distributed ceramic products with excellent quality and performance by Younexa (Thailand) Co., Ltd- Performance coating technologies and digitalization solutions by Ferro Performance Materials (Thailand) Co., Ltd/Vibrantz Technologies- Sophisticated and fast-growing products in the sector such as specialty Alumina and Aluminium Tri-Hydrate materials from Hindalco Industries Limited- Modernization and optimization of production processes on raw materials, sanitary ware and tableware pioneered by Source Runner Enterprise Co., Ltd./MCS Portugal- Contamination free raw materials curated for Ceramic, Refractory & Catalyst Industry to provide maximum results using modern techniques by Deedwaniya & Brothers/DB Group.ASEAN continues to boast a diverse production market in the manufacturing of sanitaryware, raw materials, insulators, tableware, giftware, supplies, refractory, heavy clay and advanced ceramics. The next ASEAN Ceramics – the 6th edition of Southeast Asia's leading international exhibition of Machinery, Technology and Materials for manufacturing white-ware, heavy clay and advanced ceramics, will take place from 28 November – 30 November 2023 at the International Center for Exhibitions (ICE) in Hanoi, Vietnam.For more information, please visit: www.aseaanceramics.com.About ceramitecceramitec is the central event at which the entire ceramics industry–from manufacturers through to scientists–comes together. Over the course of four days, over 600 exhibitors from all over the world present their entire portfolios at the ceramics trade fair: machinery, devices, systems, processes, and raw materials. Every branch of the industry is represented, from classic ceramics through industrial ceramics, ceramic engineering to technical ceramics and powder metallurgy.As a trade fair for suppliers, ceramitec is the meeting point for leading manufacturers, users, and scientists. This is a place to meet people and share your expertise. This forges synergies and raises awareness of new technologies and applications in industry, research, and development. Find more information about our visitor and exhibitor profiles here.The next ceramitec will be held in Munich from April 23 to 26, 2024.About ASEAN CeramicsASEAN Ceramics, known as the Ceramic Hub of Southeast Asia, is a platform for reconnecting the region's Ceramic Industry. The trade far will continue to alternate on an annual basis between Thailand and Vietnam. The exhibitions will provide the ASEAN region access to the world's leading technologies, equipment, solutions, know-how and best practices available in the market. Suppliers to the industry will meet, network and showcase their expertise to the key buyers from the region, and either strengthen or establish their foothold in the world's most dynamic region for the ceramics industry. ASEAN Ceramics is organized by MMI Asia in cooperation with founders of the event, Asian Exhibitions Services Ltd. (AES).About MMI Asia Pte LtdMMI Asia is a full subsidiary of one of the world largest and leading exhibition organizers; Messe München GMBH (MMG). MMI Asia was established in Singapore in 1992 and is now embarking on a significant growth and expansion program, bringing some of MMG's world leading brands to the ASEAN market. MMG is the owner and organizer of the world's leading ceramics trade fair ceramitec organized every three years in Munich.Press contactSyafia Naniesya (Nanie)Marketing ExecutiveMMI Asia Pte LtdTel: (65) 6236 0988 ext. 104Mobile: (65) 9780 0648Email: syafia@mmiasia.com.sg Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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Upcoming Event – Hebei (ASEAN) Export Commodities Online Fair 2022

Beijing, China, Nov 25, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Hebei (ASEAN) Export Commodities Online Fair will be held from 21 Nov.2022 to 30 June 2023 via Global Business Matching Online Platform www.gbmof.com. The Online Fair is hosted by Hebei Provincial Department of Commerce and organized by CMEC International Exhibition Co., Ltd. Hundreds of high-quality Hebei enterprises showcase their products via platform to establish a directly link with the potential buyers from ASEAN who register on the platform and find sales leads for their business. The displaying products are covering the whole category of export products of Hebei Province, such as hardware, building materials, furniture, sanitary ware, transportation equipment and accessories, food and agriculture, consumer products, bio-medicine & medical Devices, etc. Dozens of Hebei enterprises and related industry potential buyers from ASEAN will achieve accurate one on one matchmaking meetings through platform and internet cloud video conference technology.Ms. Pei Shixin, Fist-Level Inspector of Hebei Provincial Department of Commerce delivered a speech for Hebei Export Commodities Online FairAs an economically strong province, Hebei has increasingly closed economic and trade relations with ASEAN. In the first three quarters of 2022, Hebei province's foreign trade with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations gained 32.3 percent year-on-year to approximately 52.9 billion yuan, customs statistics showed. The main commodities that Hebei exports to ASEAN are electro-mechanical products, high-tech products, steel, textile yarns, fabrics and agricultural products, etc. As RCEP takes effect, China-ASEAN trade relations take a new level. Chinese enterprises benefitted a fair deal from membership to the RCEP and the RCEP may boost China's efforts to stabilize foreign trade and investment, promote industrial upgrading, and help the country set up economic and trade rules that are compatible with international standards. High-end demand from overseas markets will also motivate Chinese enterprises to optimize products and services to eventually propel overall industrial upgrades in China. China will spare no effort to roll out measures, including professional online and offline trade matching, to facilitate cooperation with ASEAN.This is the second time that Hebei Provincial Department of Commerce host Hebei (ASEAN) Export Commodities Online Fair to spur trade between Hebei China and ASEAN, in an attempt to minimize the impact of the pandemic on the foreign trade.There are three benefits of attending the online fair:Connect and network with high-quality suppliers and industry potential buyers in real time.Free access to the online fair, but get value.Easy registration and tracking.We hope the event will bring a positive business relationship between Hebei and ASEAN. Anyone who gets ready to join the online fair contact:CMEC International Exhibition Co., Ltd.Email: zhangjq@cmecexpo.comM:0086-15810085600Company: CMEC International Exhibition Co.,Ltd.Contact: Ms. Emera ZhangEmail: zhangjq@cmecexpo.comWebsite: www.gbmof.comTelephone: +8615810085600City: Beijing Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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Indonesia wants ASEAN to become the epicenter of economic growth

Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Nov 15, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - The statement was delivered by President Joko Widodo during the closing ceremony of the 40th and 41st ASEAN Summits and Related Summits at Sokha Hotel, Phnom Penh, Sunday, (Nov 13). The Indonesia President Joko Widodo (R) and the Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen (L) during the closing ceremony of the 40th and 41st ASEAN Summits and Related Summits at Sokha Hotel, Phnom Penh, Sunday, (Nov 13).Indonesia takes over the ASEAN chairmanship from Cambodia and will hold the chairmanship in 2023.Prime Minister Hun Sen hands a gavel to Indonesian President Joko Widodo, a gesture symbolizing the handover of the ASEAN chairmanship on November 13, 2022It is an honor for Indonesia to be the Chair of ASEAN in 2023, President Jokowi said.According to Jokowi, ASEAN must be a stable and peaceful region, and an anchor for world stability.The organization must also consistently enforce international law and not be a proxy for anyone, he said adding that ASEAN must be a dignified region, and uphold human values and democracy.The President also wants ASEAN to become a fast-growing, inclusive, and sustainable economic region.He noted that capacity building of ASEAN institutions must also be a concern in order to be able to answer the challenges of the next 20 years.The President hopes that by 2045 ASEAN must be more adaptive, responsive, and competitive.All of this must be fought for the ASEAN way, which is in line with the spirit of cooperation and the full implementation of the ASEAN Charter.The President invited all ASEAN leaders to attend the ASEAN Summit in Indonesia next year.Meanwhile, Indonesian Minister of Foreign Affairs Retno Marsudi said Indonesia's chairmanship of ASEAN in 2023 took the theme "ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth".Indonesia wants ASEAN to remain important and relevant to make ASEAN matters. Important and relevant inward for its people, as well as important and relevant outward for Indo-Pacific region and the World.With this premise, the chairmanship of Indonesia will take the theme ASEAN Matters: Epicentrum of Growth.The Foreign Minister said ASEAN has three pillars of cooperation namely the political- security pillar, the economic pillar, and the sociocultural pillar.During the chairmanship, the handling of the political-security pillars will be coordinated by the Coordinating Minister for Political, Legal and Security Affairs and the Minister for Foreign Affairs.The economic pillar will be coordinated by the Coordinating Minister for Economic Affairs, and the socio-cultural pillar by the Coordinating Minister for Human Development and Culture.Next year, the first activity will be a Foreign Ministers Meeting in the form of a retreat which will be held in January.In order to maximize the use of the ASEAN Secretariat building, most meetings at the technical level will be held at the ASEAN Secretariat, Jakarta.The new ASEAN Secretariat building has adequate meeting rooms and is very suitable to be used for ASEAN meetings.Retno hopes Indonesia's chairmanship in ASEAN will be able to bring benefits not only to the people of Indonesia but also to the people of ASEAN and the world.--Antara Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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CT Event Asia to host ASEAN Healthcare Transformation Summit 2022

KUALA LUMPUR, Sep 1, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - This year, CT Event Asia is all set to bring you the Asean Healthcare Transformation Summit 2022, themed "Leveraging Human Touch and Technology in the Era of Connected Health". Happening at the JW Marriot Hotel on 6th-7th September 2022, this conference is the most interactive healthcare summit in Southeast Asia, aims to address the most pressing issues in the healthcare sector. The summit promises to be even larger and will feature keynotes sessions emphasizing on the digital health ecosystem, public health systems transformation, universal health coverage, robots in healthcare, integrated hospitals and burnout in HCW. This summit will be supported by 4 focused streams on 'healthcare digitalisation & innovation', 'value based & patient centered care', 'patient safety & quality' as well as 'lean management & operations excellence'. We are anticipating over 500+ participants from utility leaders, Hospitals, Government agencies, Pharmaceutical, Solution providers, IT and Investors to discover the healthcare landscape, transformation solutions in healthcare, emerging trends in the industry and new health-tech to stay relevant in your profession in a challenging and complex operating environment. Here is our speaker list!Join us now to get more insights from the healthcare industry leaders and meet our Sponsors and Partners as well with all of this to explore, our Asean Healthcare Transformation Summit 2022 is set out to be bigger than ever! Here's our list of Sponsors and Partners.The Asean Healthcare Transformation Summit 2022 website has full details about the program. Interested parties can visit the website here or request for the event brochure here. To get in touch with our team for enquires relating to this event, feel free to reach out to:CamaraPartnership Director CT Event Asia+60 16 283 2660 | +03 2710 7756camara@cteventasia.com Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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Mitsubishi Corporation Announces the Closing of AIGF II Small and Mid-cap Growth Fund in ASEAN

TOKYO, Aug 26, 2022 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Mitsubishi Corporation (MC) is pleased to announce the final closing of AIGF II LP (AIGF II) with total capital commitments of 17.3 billion yen from institutional investors both in and outside Japan. AIGF II is the second fund established by MC's wholly owned subsidiary AIGF Advisors Pte. Ltd. (AIGF), a private-equity (PE) firm based in Singapore that manages investment funds in the ASEAN region. Launched in 2014 to accelerate growth at small and mid-cap enterprises in ASEAN and boost their industrial competitiveness, AIGF invests in the businesses and extends them management support. Through its first fund, AIGF I, the firm invested in Jaya Grocer (a company that runs premium supermarket chain in Malaysia), RDCL (the operator of Thailand's Kentucky Fried Chicken stores), and KMC (the largest flexible workspace provider in the Philippines). AIGF has steadily built up a strong track record in creating new value and growth at its portfolio companies, as evidenced by its success with Jaya Grocer, which was sold back to the original owner in 2021 after enjoying a significant expansion in its network of stores. Leveraging know-how gained through its first fund, AIGF has already begun investing through AIGF II in a variety of sectors. So far, the AIGF II portfolio includes BHS Kinetic, an integrated specialized logistics and installation services provider in Singapore, and Meatworld International, a leading meat retailer and distributor in the Philippines. Although the ASEAN region is expected to enjoy stable economic and population growth in the coming years, when compared to Japan its market for direct investments is limited and underdeveloped. PE funds like those managed by AIGF are gaining a greater presence as providers of growth capital to promising businesses. MC has been developing PE businesses both in Japan and around the world that distinguish themselves by taking advantage of the MC Group's collective capabilities. As MC's core PE platform in ASEAN, AIGF shall continue to do its part in strengthening both the region's industry and business community by investing in the growth of promising enterprises and leveraging MC's broad network and industry expertise. Copyright 2022 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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Taiwanese Companies Flock to ASEAN for Growth

Singapore, Jul 25, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - In the last 6 years, the New Southbound Policy has played an integral role in enabling Taiwanese enterprises to diversify and capture opportunities in one of the fastest growing regions in the world, ASEAN. During the period of January to October 2021, Taiwan invested US$5.3 billion in the ASEAN region, which amounted to 38.7% of the country's total overseas investments, the highest proportion in 20 years. In ASEAN, current trends reflect a shift towards customer-driven hyper-personalisation, as well as data-enabled optimisation. Considering the increasing focus on the ASEAN market, growth of Taiwanese enterprises are aligned with these regional trends.Customer-driven Innovation ASEAN consumer patterns have shifted in the last few years and enterprises have adapted to meet changing customer needs in the area of health, security and mobility. Amidst the global pandemic, health has been growing to be a central focus for consumers, with 85% expressing concern over health, according to an Asia-Pacific 2021 survey by Ernst & Young. This has contributed to an increased health and wellness expenditure in Southeast Asia. In the emergence of this trend, ible Technology Inc. has come up with a wearable air purifier to provide purified air surroundings for consumers as they go about their daily lives. This solution adopts ible's unique Breathing Pathway Eco Ion Technology, and this technology will produce over 20 million negative ions (around 100 times more ions than a forest produces) surrounding user's face to remove pollutants from the air, including viruses and other airborne particles. The recent cyberattack and data breach incidents have put personal data protection and security concerns under the spotlight. This topic has never been more relevant in the age of rapid technology adoption and data-driven organisations, with 83% of ASEAN-based organisations being highlighted as data-driven in the AIBP ASEAN Enterprise Innovation Survey 2021/22. In recognition of this, Maktar offers a smart backup solution with an integrated microSD lock encryption feature that prioritises customer data security. The establishment of the ASEAN Smart Cities Network has provided a collaborative platform where cities from the ten ASEAN Member States can work towards the common goal of smart and sustainable urban development. With advancing smart city initiatives, smart mobility is gaining traction as consumers look towards convenient and user-centric transportation services. Leveraging on IoT, IBASE designed an embedded computing platform for a smart parking metre that provides efficient parking management services such as occupancy detection and online payment, enabling customer mobility needs to be met.Accelerating Business Outcomes with Frontier TechnologiesAccording to AIBP ASEAN Enterprise Innovation Survey 2021/22, 62.8% of enterprises in ASEAN perceive business intelligence platforms that help make sense of data as the digital transformation investment that will drive the largest benefits to their organisation. Galaxy Software Services (GSS) is one of the major players in this space. In helping Perfirmtex International Co.,Ltd to improve their customer data management process, GSS built a CRM that enabled efficient lateral communication with key stakeholders like customers and partners, boosting customer satisfaction. This was guided by their Insight to Action Model where predictive analytics assists in deriving customer behaviour insights from data and following that, insights are used to optimise customer engagement efforts. Digitalisation and automation of operations was found to be the top digital transformation focus of ASEAN organisations from a 2021 AIBP survey. In line with this, various enterprises have created tech-enabled solutions to facilitate process optimisation. An AI Edge Server by AAEON supported the smart manufacturing process of a machine manufacturer in the semiconductor industry. Accounting for end user needs, AAEON designed products that were compact and dissipated heat easily.About AIBPAIBP serves as an avenue for public and private organisations in Southeast Asia to access and exchange information about growth and innovation within the B2B space. With a current network of over 30,000 stakeholders in Southeast Asia, AIBP continues to develop ecosystems by engaging in activities which create value-adding information for our stakeholders seeking to make transformative impacts within their organisations. For additional information about AIBP, please visit https://iotbusiness-platform.com/.About Taiwan Excellence AwardsAAEON, IBASE, Galaxy Software Services, ible Technology, and Maktar were recently recognized by the Taiwan Excellence Awards. These awards have been established by the country's Ministry of Economic Affairs since 1993 to celebrate how technological innovation helps people live more rewarding lives. Each year, the Taiwan Excellence Awards select the most innovative products in Taiwan across four major categories: R&D, design, quality, and marketing. As well as recognizing domestic achievement, the awards serve as a benchmark for innovation and excellence in international markets.Contact: Mr. Irza Fauzan Suprapto Email: irza@industry-platform.comPhone: (+65) 9759 5343 Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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Hong Kong ‘ideal listing destination’ for ASEAN companies

HONG KONG, May 27, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Hong Kong has been named as an ideal overseas listing destination for Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) companies in a research report^ prepared by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) in collaboration with CCB International (CCBI).Hong Kong is an ideal overseas listing destination for companies in the ASEAN region, according to a research report prepared by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) in collaboration with CCB International (CCBI).HKTDC Director of Research Irina Fan said: "With the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) free trade agreement coming into effect on 1 January 2022, closer regional economic integration will foster funding needs for projects across Asia, particularly with regard to ASEAN companies' projects in Mainland China and vice versa. Hong Kong is ideally positioned to serve as a platform to satisfy two-way funding needs."Simon Lee, Head of Corporate Finance & Capital Market Services of CCB International, said: "This is a highly informative and well-researched paper for any executive of an ASEAN company seriously considering fundraising via an overseas listing, and in which the insights of many stakeholders in the region are shared. Hong Kong stands out as the top choice for the listing of ASEAN companies seeking overseas funding."Most popular overseas listing destination for ASEAN companiesThere are already more than 80 ASEAN-headquartered companies listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange - the highest tally for a non-ASEAN stock market. These listed ASEAN companies represent a variety of sectors covering consumer discretionary, property and construction, information technology and industrial businesses with a total market capitalisation at US$15.3 billion. This indicates that Hong Kong is the most popular overseas listing destination for ASEAN companies, representing a wide variety of enterprises in terms of sector and size.The research report highlights that Hong Kong's attractiveness to ASEAN companies is due to a range of factors including good market breadth and depth, efficiency and flexibility in funding overseas investment, access to more diversified financial and strategic investor pools, its position as a doorstep to expansion in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and Mainland China, strong governance, and the convenience provided by it being in a similar time zone to ASEAN countries.Strengthening promotion in ASEAN countriesTo facilitate ASEAN companies' needs and enhance Hong Kong's position as an overseas listing hub for these enterprises, Ms Fan highlighted some of the key recommendations proposed by survey interviewees. "Hong Kong should step up its promotion in ASEAN countries to raise companies' awareness. Indeed, it is clear that some ASEAN companies need to be more informed about the latest developments relating to Hong Kong's listing regime and policies," she said.HK well positioned for ASEAN companies in prevailing and emerging sectorsSurvey interviewees highlighted that in addition to prevailing sectors in ASEAN such as consumer goods and services, mining and commodities and real estate investment trusts (REITs), fast-growing sectors including biotech, high-tech enterprises and fintech are showing good potential, while environmental, social and governance (ESG) is becoming an increasingly important factor across Southeast Asia. Interviewees suggested that Hong Kong can further reinforce its position as a listing destination for both prevailing and emerging sectors in ASEAN by streamlining its processes for overseas listing and the new special-purpose acquisition company (SPAC) regime, in addition to providing listing incentives for REITs. Hong Kong is also in a strong position to respond to the growing need for ESG funding in the ASEAN bloc.Closer collaboration with ASEAN exchanges to promote dual primary/secondary listingHong Kong can also enhance collaboration with ASEAN exchanges to promote dual primary/secondary listing in Hong Kong. "Hong Kong is the gateway between ASEAN countries and Mainland China. By working with ASEAN stock exchanges to facilitate the dual or secondary listing of ASEAN companies in Hong Kong, all parties would be better positioned to capture the growing opportunities," Ms Fan added.Hong Kong as preferred listing destination for Malaysian companiesThe report also gave insights into overseas listings by Malaysian enterprises. The Hong Kong Stock Exchange has the largest number of listed Malaysian companies among key stock exchanges outside ASEAN, and Hong Kong is well perceived by Malaysian companies as an important gateway for expanding into Mainland China. Leveraging Malaysia's economic growth and further economic integration in the region, Malaysia's fast-growing IT sector and growth companies could be potential candidates for listing on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange through the new SPAC route.^ The report is based on desktop research and interviews conducted by the HKTDC from September 2021 to January 2022. Interviewees included senior executives/members of listed companies, chambers of commerce, professional organisations, legal practitioners, accountants and investment bankers. Interviewees were asked to share their insights on Hong Kong's strengths as a listing destination for ASEAN companies, some of the hurdles ASEAN companies are facing, as well as recommendations to strengthen Hong Kong's position as a listing hub. The first research report in this series focuses on the overall overseas listing regime of Hong Kong as well as Hong Kong as a listing destination for Malaysian companies, while two subsequent reports on Thai and Indonesian companies listing in Hong Kong will be released later this year. Disclaimer https://tinyurl.com/HKTDC-DisclaimerReferences- HKTDC Research Portal: https://research.hktdc.com/en- "Hong Kong as a Listing Destination for ASEAN Companies": https://bit.ly/3ajmAkV- Photo download: https://bit.ly/3MsV1UIMedia enquiriesPlease contact the HKTDC's Communication and Public Affairs Department:Snowy Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4525, Email: snowy.sn.chan@hktdc.orgPlease contact CCBI's Corporate Finance & Capital Market Services:Sam Siu, Tel: +852 3911 8926, Email: samsiu@ccbintl.comAbout 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 LinkedInAbout CCBICCB International (Holdings) Limited and its subsidiaries (collectively "CCB International") is a financial and investment services company owned by China Construction Bank Corporation ("CCB"). CCB International is committed to expanding its international platform. Backed by the CCB global network, its business covers key financial centres worldwide including Mainland China, Hong Kong, Singapore and London. CCB International offers a full range of products and services including sponsoring and underwriting, financial advisory, corporate mergers and acquisitions, restructuring, additional issuance and placement of shares, refinancing for listed companies, direct investment, asset management, securities brokerage, market research, investment consultancy, futures and commodities business. The corporate finance and capital market services of CCB International have raised almost HKD5 trillion from the global equity market for hundreds of companies. For more information, please visit: http://www.ccbintl.com/English.html. Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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Tech Pioneers Gather at World Cyber Security Summit – ASEAN

Singapore, Apr 4, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Taking place virtually on 12 April 2022, the 12th global edition of World Cyber Security Summit - ASEAN will focus on topics such as: - Government's Approach to Cyber Security: Safe National Cyber Space;- Cyber Security and Data Protection for Banking and Financial Institutions; - HMI/SCADA Dangers and Cyber Security Strategies; - Automated Hacking, Deepfakes and Other Cyber Threats of 2022; - Real-Life Use Cases on How to Combat Cyber-Attacks, and much more.The core objective of the event is to incorporate cyber security in ASEAN enterprises to protect the fastest growing digital economies in ASEAN member countries in the next 10 years. The cyber security plan by ASEAN Member States is crucial to ensuring the integrity of their digital economies. With the implementation of cyber security measures, the digital economy in ASEAN member countries will be able to grow further.Rising cyber threats and a lack of cyber security leadership are the biggest challenges facing the development of digital economies in ASEAN. With digital economies rapidly growing in ASEAN, the need for cyber security leaders who can implement the best cyber security practices across the region is more pressing than ever.The surge is causing governments to support sectors such as Telecommunications, Finance, E-commerce, BFSI, Healthcare, Retail, FMCG, Logistics and many more at the World Cyber Security Summit - ASEAN, which will help boost demand for enterprise cyber security products, services, and consumer software in the country.What next for the continent?Enterprises and governments are stepping up strengthening internet infrastructure and improving the solutions and assistance provided by the software industry in order to protect their citizens from future cyber-attacks.Apart from that, factors such as the need for unified cyber solutions, increased internet subscriptions, data disclosure mandates, enhanced enterprise mobility, and increased spending patterns on security forums are fueling the nation's demand for cyber security solutions."The economic well-being of ASEAN nations is becoming increasingly dependent on the digital realm. Governments can protect their economies and citizens by implementing appropriate digital security protocols," stated Mithun Shetty, CEO, Trescon.World Cyber Security Summit - ASEAN will feature a ground-breaking collaboration of experts such as:- Dato' Dr Haji Amirudin bin Abdul Wahab; CEO, CyberSecurity Malaysia- Zane Lim; Sales Director APAC, Cymulate- Colonel Sazali Sukardi; Senior Vice president, Strategic Research Division, Cybersecurity Malaysia- Leonardo Hutabarat; Enterprise Sales Engineering Manager, APAC LogRhythm Singapore- Harish Sekar; Senior Technical Evangelist, ManageEngine- Muhamad Erza Aminanto; Lead Cyber & Data Scientist, Jakarta Smart City- Francel Margareth Taborlupa; Battalion Commander, Philippine Army- Dr. Soontorn Sirapaisan; Cyber and information lead/Security researcher, NECTEC - Col Joey T Fontiveros SC; Commanding Officer, Cyber Battalion, ASR, Philippine Army- Yaron Slutzky; Chief Security Officer, Agoda- Maria Carmela Migrino; CISO, Meralco- Frankie Shuai Director; Cyber & Technology Risk, UBS- Virag Thakkar; APAC Information Security Officer, Allianz Partners- Krishna Kasi; Vice President, Business and IT audit, BNP Paribas Australia to name a few.The summit will be hosted on the virtual events platform Vmeets to help participants network and conduct business in an interactive and immersive virtual environment. Participants can also engage with speakers in Q&A sessions and network with solution providers in virtual exhibition booths, private consultation rooms and private networking rooms.The World Cyber Security Summit - ASEAN is officially sponsored by: - Platinum Sponsor - Delinea, VMware.- Gold Sponsor - Netskope, LogRhythm, Cymulate, & Sophos.- Silver Sponsor - ManageEngine.- Supported by Cybersecurity Malaysia.About World Cyber Security SummitWorld Cyber Security Summit is a thought-leadership-driven, business-focused initiative that provides a platform for CISOs who are looking to explore new-age threats and the technologies/strategies to mitigate them. About TresconTrescon is a global business events and consulting firm that provides a wide range of business services to a diversified client base that includes corporations, governments and individuals. Trescon is specialized in producing highly focused B2B events that connect businesses with opportunities through conferences, roadshows, expos, demand generation, investor connect, and consulting services. To register visit - World Cyber Security Summit - ASEAN (bit.ly/36Wjt0Z).For further details, please contact:Jagriti Jaiswal,Marketing Lead; Tresconmedia@tresconglobal.com Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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ASEAN Ceramics Thailand 2022

Southeast Asia’s leading international exhibition of machinery, technology and materialsfor manufacturing advanced ceramics. BANGKOK, Mar 31, 2022 – (ACN Newswire) – ASEAN Ceramics 2022 is all set to take place from 30th November – 2nd December 2022 in Thailand. Messe Munchen, through their Southeast Asian operation, MMI Asia, announced its collaboration with AES (Asian Exhibition Services) on 15th September 2021, to take ASEAN Ceramics to a new international level of excellence in the two key markets for the region — Thailand and Vietnam. Through shared expertise and synergies, the first edition of this partnership would establish itself as the most pivotal event for the industry in Southeast Asia, with a common goal to enhance the visibility of advanced ceramic products and technology. The exhibition and conference will continue to alternate between Thailand and Vietnam every year. Over the course of 3 days, over 100 exhibitors and 4000 visitors are expected from across the world, who will share their products and technologies, extending from classic ceramics through industrial ceramics, ceramic engineering to technical ceramics and powder metallurgy. The event will provide an extensive engagement in ASEAN for global participants who would be able to leverage on Messe Munchen’s strengths through the Ceramitec (Munich) network and Indian Ceramics Asia. Alongside the exhibition, ASEAN Ceramics will also host a conference over three days led by a series of presentations and panel discussions by renowned speakers on several topics, ranging from new research to global innovation trends and their impact on the world ceramics industry. The conference would strive to amalgamate the knowledge of current and developing ceramic technology, analytics, and product design and keep high level plenary sessions intensely thought provoking. Our special focus will be on sustainability, shift towards circular economy in ceramics, advanced ceramic battery production, 3D printing, durability, green energy, energy-efficiency, digitalization and ongoing research and innovation et al. ASEAN Ceramics 2022 will promote industry knowledge, collaboration and growth through an exchange of ideas, fostering relationships, bringing new technologies and solutions and opening markets further. The exhibition and conference provide the ASEAN region access to the world’s most advanced technologies, equipment, solutions, knowledge and best practices in the ceramics industry. Since its inception in 2013, the exhibition has provided an exceptional platform for industry leaders to come together, interact, network and share their expertise with prominent decision makers – while strengthening their foothold on one of world’s most dynamic regions for the ceramics industry. About MMI Asia Pte Ltd MMI Asia, established in 1992 is a wholly owned subsidiary of one of the world’s largest and leading exhibition organizers, Messe Munchen GMBH (MMG). MMG is the owner andorganizer of the world’s leading ceramics trade fair, Ceramitec, organized every two years in Munich. More information available on:ASEAN Ceramics: www.aseanceramics.comMMI Asia Pte Ltd: www.mmiasia.comCeramitec: www.ceramitec.comIndian Ceramics Asia: www.indian-ceramics.com

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The Era of Accelerated Digital Innovation Among Enterprises in Southeast Asia – AIBP ASEAN Enterprise Innovation Award Winners Announced

Singapore, Jan 6, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Ten enterprises have emerged as the winners of the 2021 AIBP ASEAN Enterprise Innovation Award. The 5th annual edition of the Award saw over 130 nominations from Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand & Vietnam, narrowed down to 27 finalists and 10 final winners.Winners of the Award are as follows:- Ayala Land Inc.- Bangchak Corporation- Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited- Bank Mandiri- Carsem M Sdn Bhd- Mavin Group- Manila Electric Company (Meralco)- PT Transportasi Jakarta- Sarawak Energy- Tien Phong Commercial Joint Stock Bank (TPBank)Commenting on innovation initiatives observed among ASEAN enterprises this year, Irza Suprapto, CEO of Industry Platform said, "We've seen ASEAN grow as a region in the past decade, and over the past two years, businesses have had to grapple with uncertertaines around the pandemic. Amidst these challenges, attitudes towards digitalisation and innovation have shifted as they take centre stage in driving growth and development for enterprises in ASEAN, one of the fastest evolving digital economies in the world."Among the winning enterprises, highlights from the innovation and digitalisation initiatives in 2021 include implementation of new, cutting-edge technologies and the creation of new business value. Enhancing Processes with Advanced TechnologyKey technologies highlighted by the enterprise winners across different industries include the application of blockchain, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). At Bangkok Bank, enterprise blockchain digitised the entire trade finance process, revolutionising international trade transactions. In the electric utility sector, Sarawak Energy Berhad is exploring blockchain technology to be applied in the wholesale energy market. 83% of ASEAN enterprises consider their organisations data-driven, with some going beyond to extract more value from data by incorporating AI and ML. Bank Mandiri is a pioneer in Indonesia employing AI and ML to analyse patterns in their ecosystem data for insights to provide personalised financial services. Transjakarta is also exploring the use of technology such as AI, IoT with new data structures that support streaming analytics to optimise bus dispatching services and meet passenger demand.Low-code platforms were key enablers of several of the winning innovation projects for enterprises like Ayala Land and Bangchak Corporation to ensure configurability and scalability of application development.Unlocking New Business Value through Innovation and DigitalisationIn the banking and financial services sector, Bangkok Bank and Bank Mandiri seek to maximise customer value with digitalisation. Bangkok Bank is exploring commercialisation of the Distributed Ledger Technology for trade services. Bank Mandiri's Integrated Value Chain Ecosystem enables understanding of interactions across the wholesale banking ecosystem.With the launch of their mobile application, Transjakarta seeks to expand their service offerings by scaling the platform into a larger digital ecosystem integrating e-commerce, loyalty programmes, financial services, etc. Bangchak Corporation has also expanded its business to green energy, oil trading and natural resources among others.As we enter 2022 with improved business processes and renewed optimism, ASEAN's enterprise digital transformation and innovation journey will continue to scale greater heights as resilience and sustainability become cornerstones of businesses.For any queries, please contact Vanessa Kwan, Program Lead, email: vanessa@industry-platform.com.About AIBP ASEAN Enterprise Innovation AwardThe Enterprise Innovation Award was established in 2017 by AIBP with the key objective of giving recognition to organisations which have embarked on projects to digitally transform their business through the adoption of innovative technology. The awards are held annually in the following ASEAN countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand and Vietnam. For additional information on the Award, please visit https://iotbusiness-platform.com/award/. About AIBPAIBP serves as an avenue for public and private organisations in Southeast Asia to access and exchange information about growth and innovation within the B2B space. With a current network of over 30,000 stakeholders in Southeast Asia, AIBP continues to develop ecosystems by engaging in activities which create value-adding information for our stakeholders seeking to make transformative impacts within their organisations. For additional information about AIBP, please visit https://iotbusiness-platform.com/. Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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Export Commodities Online Fair promotes trade between China’s Hebei and ASEAN

HEBEI, CHINA, Dec 9, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - China will boost new forms and models of foreign trade to advance high-quality development of the trade sector, according to a circular issued by the General Office of the State Council on July 9, 2021, and aims to have better mechanisms and policy systems in place to support these new trade protocols by 2025, along with the backing of leading enterprises and globally competitive industrial clusters.ASEAN continues to be China's largest trading partner, these new forms and evolving models of foreign trade further spurring the strong growth momentum. China's bilateral trade with ASEAN topped 4.08 trillion yuan ($639 billion) during the first three quarters of the year, an increase of 21.1%, while Hebei's bilateral trade with ASEAN increased by 24.3% during the same period, led by exports of mechanical and electrical products, agricultural products and textiles.In order to promote the innovative business development methods of foreign trade enterprises in Hebei, the Hebei Provincial Department of Commerce has sponsored a number of one-country, one-exhibition and multi-country, one-exhibition trade promotion activities, among them Hebei (ASEAN) Export Commodities Online Exhibition & Fair, a virtual exhibition hosted with co-organizer CMEC International Exhibition Co., Ltd. at www.gbmof.com.The Online Exhibition was held between Nov 29 to Dec 3, and the Online Fair continues through June 30, 2022. 60+ buyers and representatives of ASEAN companies and associations registered for match-making, attending one-on-one meetings during the Exhibition with 50+ Heibei suppliers and products, offering the range of export categories in Hebei Province. Both buyers and suppliers enjoyed the in-depth trade discussions and product demonstrations on the cloud. Both sides made new friends and many have received orders online.Potential buyers from ASEAN countries are invited to join us at CMEC Global Business Matching Fair, where you can check out the E-brochures and catalogues available at the virtual exhibition halls, and meet any of Hebei's high-quality manufacturers and suppliers online throughout the Fair. The CMEC Business Matching Fair site will be open through November 2022 at http://www.gbmof.com.Media contact:Emera ZhangCMEC International Exhibition Co., Ltd. E: zhangjq@cmecexpo.comU: http://www.cmecexpo.com Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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Singapore to donate $8m of medical supplies to Asean stockpile for public health emergencies

SINGAPORE - Singapore will contribute $7.9 million worth of medical supplies to a regional reserve as part of the city-state's support for Asean's collective effort to prepare for future public health emergencies, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced on Tuesday (Oct 26). To help with swift and equitable distribution of Covid-19 vaccines within the region, Singapore is also ramping up cold chain logistics services and expanding vaccine manufacturing capabilities, with three new production facilities in the pipeline. Major pharmaceutical companies BioNTech, Sanofi and Thermo Fisher Scientific have revealed plans to set up vaccine manufacturing facilities in Singapore. PM Lee was speaking at a virtual Asean Summit with his counterparts from South-east Asia, at the start of three days of meetings revolving around the 10-nation bloc chaired by Brunei Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah. Outlining areas in which Asean could further cooperate after nearly two years of a pandemic, PM Lee cited the need to improve access to vaccines and noted that Singapore has donated to other countries its vaccine allocation through the Covid-19 Vaccine Global Access (Covax) facility. Together with Switzerland, Singapore co-chairs the Friends of Covax Facility to promote vaccine multilateralism. The initiative, backed by the World Health Organisation, aims to give people in poor countries access to vaccines. However, it has suffered logistical difficulties and vaccine shortages, with reports of wealthy nations buying up several times more doses than lower-income ones. In Sept 2021, Singapore contributed over 122,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine procured under Covax to Batam and the Riau Islands in Indonesia. PM Lee also noted on Tuesday that Singapore will be contributing its allocation of the Covid-19 Asean Response Fund to other member states and the Asean secretariat. The fund serves as a pool of financial resources for the group to purchase vaccines, among other pandemic efforts. Singapore's prime minister also urged his regional counterparts to step up the process of ratifying the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the world's largest trade pact involving all 10 Asean members, plus Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand and South Korea. The pact was concluded last year but needs the ratification of at least six Asean members and three others. Singapore was the first to do so in April 2021. "In these difficult times we must work even harder on economic integration," said PM Lee. "The RCEP will boost confidence in regional trade and investment, and contribute significantly towards the region's post-pandemic economic recovery. "I look forward to the swift ratification of the RCEP by all Asean member states and partners, for the agreement to enter into force by January 2022 as planned." More on this topic   Related Story Biden to join Asean summit, renewing US' involvement since Trump skipped after 2017   Related Story Myanmar a no-show at Asean summit after junta exclusion In his speech, PM Lee also called for the progressive reopening of economies as the pandemic comes under control. "This is an important aspect of 'living with Covid-19'," he said, pointing to Singapore's use of Vaccinated Travel Lanes to facilitate the quarantine-free entry of fully inoculated visitors. To that end, Singapore welcomes the adoption of the Asean Travel Corridor Arrangement Framework initiated last year, and the development of interoperable digital solutions to enable travel to resume safely, said PM Lee. For instance, digital health certificates showing proof of testing and vaccination should be developed and mutually recognised, he added. PM Lee then made a final point on digital transformation, suggesting that Asean collaborate through existing initiatives such as its Smart Cities Network, which aims to use technology and urban planning to improve quality of life and build a sustainable future across the region. "Relying more on technology also means we need more robust cyber security measures," he said. He added that this includes strengthening regional resilience through protecting critical information infrastructure and conducting capacity-building programmes, and pointed to the Asean-Singapore Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence unveiled in 2018. The centre officially opened its main campus in North Bridge Road in Oct 2021 to complement an existing facility in Temasek Polytechnic. About $30 million has been earmarked to fund the centre up till 2023, as it researches and trains experts to respond to local and regional cyber security incidents. More on this topic   Related Story S'pore gives 122,400 doses of AstraZeneca Covid-19 vaccine to Indonesia

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Dates Announced for ASEAN Ceramics as Messe Munchen & Asian Exhibition Services Collaborate to Stage the Shows from 2022

BANGKOK, Sep 20, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Messe Munchen, through their Southeast Asian regional operation MMI Asia Pte Ltd (MMI), have joined forces with Asian Exhibition Services (AES) to take ASEAN Ceramics to a new international level of excellence in the two key markets for the region, Thailand, and Vietnam from 2022. The ceramic manufacturing exhibition and conference will continue to alternate annually as ASEAN Ceramics Thailand and ASEAN Ceramics Vietnam, providing complete coverage and access for the industry.The events will continue to boost the ceramics industry in ASEAN through showcasing the world's leading equipment, technologies, innovations, and solutions needed to grow and meet the challenges it faces in the years to come. Messe Munchen's strength through the ceramitec network which includes the show in Munich, ceramitec conference and Indian Ceramics Asia, will enable leading global suppliers to gain access to key buyers in the manufacturing "hot spots" of the booming ASEAN market. This strength is coupled with AES's strong local positioning and experience to bring together a world-class event in one of the world's most important ceramic region.Work will commence immediately on ASEAN Ceramics Thailand, which will take place onIMPACT Exhibition and Convention Center, Bangkok. The events will take on a significant complementing Southeast Asia as an exciting manufacturing focal point for the global industry.AES will function as a consultant to MMI on the events to provide a comprehensive service to the market and continuity of support, experience and expertise in the market.The shows will be managed through Messe Munchen's subsidiary office in Singapore. Michael Wilton, General Manager of MMI Asia Pte. Ltd, "ASEAN Ceramics in Thailand and Vietnam will serve an industry we are very familiar with. It is exciting to bring in the expertise we have in the ceramics industry to help boost the offering to the Southeast Asia market via these shows. With AES fully engaged and in support as our consultant on the projects, their local knowledge and expertise will ensure the shows deliver on the requirement of the industry."David Aitken, CEO of Asian Exhibition Services (AES) Ltd. explained that, "The collaborativeworld-class event in Southeast Asia, is an exciting opportunity for the industry and indeed the global suppliers of technology and materials for this rapidly evolving market. AES is exhibition and our shared expertise, and team synergies and partnerships will establish the event as one of the most important in Asia."Dr. Jurgen Blumm, Chairman of the ceramitec advisory board and CEO of Netzsch says,"As an active player in these countries and keen exhibitor at ceramitec, we are excited to course our place at the forefront of the development of the industry in this very important region."Further details on ASEAN Ceramics Thailand will be made available shortly through the website www.aseanceramics.com. Suppliers to the industry are encouraged to contact the organisers early.About ceramitecceramitec is the central event at which the entire ceramics industry-from manufacturers through to scientists-comes together. Over the course of four days, over 600 exhibitors from all over the world present their entire portfolios at the ceramics trade fair: machinery, devices, systems, processes, and raw materials. Every branch of the industry is represented, from classic ceramics through industrial ceramics, ceramic engineering to technical ceramics and powder metallurgy.As a trade fair for suppliers, ceramitec is the meeting point for leading manufacturers, users, and scientists. This is a place to meet people and share your expertise. This forges synergies and raises awareness of new technologies and applications in industry, research, and development. Find more information about our visitor and exhibitor profiles here (https://www.ceramitec.com/en/trade-fair/information/facts-figures/visitor-exhibitor-profiles/)ceramitec 2022 will be taking place between June 21-24 at the Messe Munchen exhibition center.About ASEAN CeramicsASEAN Ceramics will continue to alternate on an annual basis between Thailand and Vietnam. The exhibitions will provide the ASEAN region access to the world's leading technologies, equipment, solutions, know-how and best practices available in the market. Suppliers to the industry will meet, network and showcase their expertise to the key buyers from the region, and either strengthen or establish their foothold in the world's most dynamic region for the ceramics industry.About MMI Asia PTE. LtdMMI Asia is a full subsidiary of one of the world largest and leading exhibition organizers; Messe Munchen GMBH (MMG). MMI Asia established in Singapore in 1992, is now embarking on a significant growth and expansion program, bringing some of MMG's world leading brands to the ASEAN market. MMG is the owner and organizer of the world's leading ceramics trade fair ceramitec organized every two years in Munich.More info: www.aseanceramics.comwww.mmiasia.com www.ceramitec.comContactJulia KwanGroup Project Director MMI Asia Pte Ltd julia@mmiasia.com.sg Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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ST Telemedia Global Data Centres, Equinix, Oracle, Digital Realty and Cohesity to lead Datacentre and Cloud Summit 2021

With the congregation of the leading thought leaders from Southeast Asia, DCCI 2021: ASEAN will cover every aspect of the region’s Datacentre & Cloud industry. Singapore, Sept 14, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – With Southeast Asia becoming the global hotbed for Datacentres and Cloud Infrastructure, along with the region witnessing the emergence of the ASEAN Digital Masterplan 2025, over 1000 datacentre and cloud professionals from 200+ leading public and private enterprises across the ASEAN region will join the virtual edition of Datacentre and Cloud Summit (DCCI) 2021: ASEAN, organized by Tradepass on 28-29 September, 2021. In an interview leading up to the summit, Jeremy Deutsch, President of Asia-Pacific, Equinix said, “With ASEAN leading the charge in data center and digital infrastructure growth, the virtual DCCI Summit ASEAN 2021 is the perfect platform for professionals and enterprises to connect and get updated on the latest trends and development in the data center and cloud segments.” “Equinix is excited to be a part of this inaugural edition and we look forward to conversations with leaders and organizations, including how to support them in building a digital infrastructure that will accelerate their digital transformation and business growth,” he added. Following the participation announcement, Sheena Chin, Managing Director of Cohesity ASEAN, Cohesity said, “Many organizations attempt to manage data through legacy products. However, legacy infrastructure is incredibly complex to manage and was not designed for the needs of modern businesses. What organizations need is a next-gen approach to data management that brings data workloads together on one platform spanning clouds, data centers, and the edge, managed through a single user interface – that’s what Cohesity provides.” The distinguished speakers for the event will share key industry intelligence that will be highlighted by the many insightful presentations and ultra-rich panel discussions. In that light, DCCI 2021: ASEAN will cover the most pressing topics like: – The Future of Data Centers: Delivering IT Infrastructure for the Digital Age in ASEAN– Green Data Centers: Key to the Digital Economy Boom– Cloud Security: Keeping IT Environments SECURE– Edge computing: Changing the Future of Data Centers– Importance of Data Center Architecture and Disaster Recovery Recognizing the fastest-growing digital economy, Clement Goh, CEO, Southeast Asia, ST Telemedia Global Data Centres commented, “The ASEAN market is expected to be a bright spot for data centre growth with the confluence of increased digital connectivity led by the pandemic, growth of consumer digital adoption and Industry 4.0 that contributed to the significant industry growth. We look forward to participating at DCCI to share our insights on this populous region and how we can build better and smarter data centres to enable our digital future sustainably.” Mark Smith, Managing Director – Asia Pacific, Digital Realty expressed his views about the summit, “Asia Pacific has been witnessing an explosive growth in data, driven by accelerated technological change with the emergence of AI, 5G, blockchain and IoT. Based on our Data Gravity Index DGx, APAC is expected to generate the fastest growth across all regions in terms of data gravity in the coming years. Key markets such as Singapore, Japan, South Korea are poised for an accelerated growth, resulting in even more demand for data center solutions.” “At Digital Realty, we aim to balance growth with sustainability by building efficient and sustainable data centers in the APAC region and across the globe. We continue to extend coverage, capacity and connectivity options for enterprises to pursue their digital ambitions on PlatformDIGITAL, our global data center platform with over 4,000 participants in 47 metros across 24 countries,” he added. Organiser and the CEO of Tradepass, Sudhir Jena expressed that “While we are always striving to keep our best foot forward to simplify the trending disruptions prevailing in the tech industry, DCCI 2021: ASEAN will be the most crucial to say the least as it deeply acknowledges the multi-billion-dollar Datacentre market along with the rapid mobilization of Cloud Infrastructure in Southeast Asia.” Confirmed Sponsors: Equinix; Oracle; Cohesity; Digital Realty; ST Telemedia Global Data Centres; BDx Data Centers; Aryaka Networks; NetApp; Aerospike; Schneider Electric; 3M; Siemens; Snowflake. For more information about the summit, log on to www.dccisummit.com About Tradepass Tradepass provides elite business networking platforms across the MEA, APAC and Europe that connects the world of tech buyers with market intelligence, insightful use-cases, and innovative solutions from global experts, investors, and business partners. Shrinkhal SharadTradepass Globalshrinkhals@tradepassglobal.com

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Quad vs. ASEAN: The Conundrum in Southeast Asia

The Americans have been spearheading the Indo-Pacific policy efforts for a while. This is in view of the Chinese assertion along land and maritime boundary disagreements. Along with this factor, China’s overall challenge to the US’ position as a unipolar hegemon also got the Americans startled. The Trump administration began the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue efforts, keeping a counter-strategy in mind. With Biden’s ascent to power, not much had changed. He even called for the first (albeit virtual) meet of the Quad leaders. The in-person summit has been planned for later this year. Such proactive efforts mean a lot in terms of a collective warning to China for its Wolf Warrior games. However, the regional implications of such foreign interventions can be problematic. In a region that has primarily been deliberated upon by organizations and blocs like ASEAN and SAARC, when a new establishment or arrangement of power comes into being, there can be discontentment. In fact, the ASEAN countries haven’t exactly welcomed the formation of Quad. Even when the formalization of this dialogue hadn’t taken place, the reactions were somewhat contrary to what can be termed ‘warm’.  Getting the ASEAN countries to clearly spell out opposition to the Chinese tactics of control will be a difficult task for players like the Quad members. China’s engagement with these nations has been robust. With the RCEP too being put in place, the trade connections have been strengthened. In more recent times, COVID-19 has enabled an integration of sorts for those countries in this region. The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs even goes on to say that it “regards ASEAN as its primary partner in anti-pandemic cooperation”. The China-ASEAN vaccine friends platform and other measures appear to point directly against the Quad nations’ plan of action for immunisation. The Chinese Foreign Affairs Minister, Wang Yi, had remarked that “China will unswervingly expand its opening to the outside world, actively build a new development paradigm, and provide new opportunities for the world with its own new development, to bring new opportunities for and inject new momentum into China-ASEAN cooperation”. The prospects for closer cooperation seem to have been opened up with gestures and statements like these. The ASEAN, owing to its long-standing partnership with its neighbour in China, will be wary of taking sides. It has China as its second-largest trading partner – only second to the EU. The Chinese had also extended support financially for those countries like Thailand that went through crunches. ASEAN is certainly the Asian giant’s focus in building its own image as a builder of peace and prosperity in the region and beyond. As much as global powers would wish to discount the importance of aid in determining power equations, China has consistently succeeded on this account. This is the instrument that has given the country its best results and for that reason, it will be employed over and over. But even on political grounds, the ASEAN nations’ proximity to China drives its policymaking.  The Southeast Asian countries’ neutrality in troubling geopolitical situations was also observed back during the Cold War – the product of this was ZOPFAN (Zone of Peace, Freedom, and Neutrality). Similar outlooks can be expected in the region’s approach towards evolving tensions between the US and China. That Biden’s display of condemnation isn’t as pronounced as Trump’s must be a relief with respect to the space this changed attitude provides for other stakeholder nations to test the waters. The US must be careful about overstepping the boundaries of interference that have been set up here. Even in the design of the new Indo-Pacific, removing the spotlight from ASEAN nations can be major trouble as this puts ARF (ASEAN Regional Forum) in a fix, pushed to the periphery. Prior to Quad being institutionalized to some measure, the meetings of these countries’ leaders had taken place along with the platforms set by ASEAN. Steering away from this would also mark a dent in ASEAN centrality when it comes to the Indo-Pacific. The chances of political insecurity are precisely what China is going to try and tap into for stabilizing its image in Southeast Asia. While the Quad may still be in its stage of infancy, it isn’t entirely safe to rule out a possible eclipsing of the ASEAN structures by this relatively new grouping that has come up. The Southeast Asian countries are aware of this fact.  In order to stress its pertinence in solving issues specific to the Indo-Pacific, ASEAN urged discussions to centre around territorial disputes and Taiwan, among other matters, at the ADMM-Plus nearly three months back. This appeared to be an emphasis on what the right forum for such closely connected issues would be. In the region’s apparent hostility towards the US, one can find hints of the Americans’ earlier aggression and the scars this left on the populace affected. The Vietnam War in particular has been a haunting political blot on the list of humanitarian stretches that the US has carried out. When the US’ role in Afghanistan is being questioned now for its utter futility and disorganized pattern, cursors are being drawn against the earlier lessons and mistakes that the Americans could’ve learned from their wars in Iraq and Vietnam. Machoism in politics likely keeps the US from opening its eyes to the bitter truths of its failure. Given the nature of historical engagements between America and Southeast Asia, it is only natural that the latter looks at the situation with scrutiny and suspicion. For the countries in this region, it’s easier to trust a neighbour than a foreign power that has repeatedly shown its aggressive and invasive iron-fistedness. No visits by VP Harris or Lloyd Austin can fully erase these traces.  The key to a successful Indo-Pacific policy lies in understanding that regional problems can be solved only if the regional actors are taken on board. With a system like Quad, the issue is that it’s not completely inclusive of all stakeholders. Reducing the number of members to just four and carrying out any business within this close-knit network will prove to be harmful to the group’s own intentions. Taking in the confidence of ASEAN will be of most importance today for countries like the US. After all, for these nations, their centrality is of greater value when diplomatic relations are weighed. Chinese attention has been growing towards the ASEAN nations in search of possible allies for their defence against the West’s cornering of the Dragons. Given the volatile nature of equations here, the liberal West should not adopt its default approach that is distanced from ground realities. 

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DPM Heng Swee Keat calls on Asean and China to explore building blocks of growth in the ‘never normal’

SINGAPORE - Apart from deepening cooperation in existing areas such as trade, Asean and China can benefit from exploring new "building blocks" of growth in areas such as digitalisation and sustainability, said Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat on Monday (July 12). With sound economic fundamentals and a total combined population of two billion people, there is large potential for catch-up growth, he added. But even as it ramps up collaboration with China, Asean must stay united and keep engaging all major partners, Mr Heng said. This is especially the case when South-east Asian countries get caught up in the intensifying strategic competition between the United States and China. He was speaking at the two-day FutureChina Global Forum, which brings together government and business leaders on a range of China-related issues. Mr Heng also took part in a panel discussion on Asean and China, at which academics and bank representatives shared their thoughts on China's growing role in the international arena and how US-China relations will be shaped by these developments. This year's theme of economic cooperation in the "never normal" is apt, given the uncertainty and swift changes - such as digitalisation and climate change - taking place in the world, Mr Heng noted. "We cannot predict the future, but we can, and must, seek to create a better future," he added. One part of this effort will be fortifying the foundations of existing partnerships. This can be done by strengthening the rules-based multilateral framework for trade and investments, Mr Heng said. He pointed to the Asean-China free trade deal as a cornerstone of such collaboration, calling on countries to work towards upgrading this agreement by reducing non-tariff measures and addressing new priorities. In addition, countries should maintain the momentum for global trade liberalisation and build confidence in multilateralism, he said. And beyond trade deals, countries can work together on new "building blocks" such as digitalisation. For instance, Singapore already has a Smart City Initiative with Shenzhen and has signed digital economy agreements with Australia, Chile and New Zealand, Mr Heng said. Another building block will be increased cooperation on sustainable development, including catalysing a green recovery from the crisis. On top of that, countries can also look to exploring carbon sequestration - that is, the long-term capture of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere. South-east Asia, with more than one-third of the world's mangroves and up to 120 million hectares of land for reforestation, has significant potential to contribute in this area, Mr Heng said. But in both areas, investments are needed to realise this potential, he added. "One important building block is to set common standards, improve traceability and create vibrant exchanges for the trading of carbon credits." Turning his attention to the broader strategic context in which Asean-China economic ties are set, the minister noted that frictions are often exacerbated by disparities in size. Still, even when there are disputes, relations between all countries must be conducted within the framework of international law, he said. An open, transparent, inclusive and rules-based approach will benefit all countries, not just South-east Asia and China, but also the US and other trading partners, Mr Heng stressed, observing that the biggest challenge facing the region is strategic competition between the US and China. While relations between the two great powers have become less volatile under the new Biden administration in the US, underlying tensions remain and are unlikely to abate in the foreseeable future. Even so, it is in the interest of both countries to cooperate on common challenges, he said. These include tackling the Covid-19 pandemic, coordinating global economic recovery and addressing the issue of climate change. "For Asean, we do not expect to change the course of the strategic competition, but we must do all that we can to keep the region open and inclusive," Mr Heng said. "It is not a question of choosing sides, but of retaining our ability to make choices for ourselves, to advance our collective interest and do what is best for our peoples." The region must remain firmly anchored on its own interests, he added. "This is what Asean centrality is about."

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