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Hong Kong and UAE explore collaboration opportunities

DUBAI, Feb 9, 2023 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - A delegation of business leaders from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), led by the city's Chief Executive and principal officials and organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), is in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) this week to strengthen existing business ties and develop new areas of collaboration in technology, sustainability and smart city development, in addition to traditional sectors of finance and trade.A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between HKTDC and Dubai Chambers.Panel speakers discussed the opportunities for deeper UAE-Hong Kong collaboration at the business forum before a dinner for the Dubai and Hong Kong business communities.With Hong Kong's unrivalled access to China and Asia and the UAE's role as a gateway to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and European markets, the relationship between the two commercial centres is already providing important benefits to a range of businesses.The arrival of the high-level business delegation, which comprises senior executives from Hong Kong's financial institutions, financial regulators as well as major players in innovation and technology (I&T), sustainability and smart city solutions, will help accelerate the commercial ties between the HKSAR and the Emirates, and support the strategic development of the UAE, Hong Kong and mainland China.The important strategic relationships, which exist between China and the UAE, are based on a shared backing for liberal trade policies, investment in cutting-edge technology, low tax regimes and backing for pro-business regulation.A press conference was held on 8 February in Dubai, followed by a business forum and dinner in the presence of H.E. Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, H.E. Mr Abdul-Aziz Abdulla Al Ghurair, Chairman of Dubai Chambers and H.E. Sultan Bin Sulayem, Chairman of Dubai International Chambers.Hong Kong's Chief Executive Mr John Lee said: "The UAE is Hong Kong's largest trading partner in the Middle East region. We treasure this long-standing relationship, and I believe that we can now take it to a higher level. That's why I'm here, together with these business leaders from Hong Kong - some 30 strong - to tell you that our business and investment doors are wide open and welcoming for UAE companies and investors. For a world of opportunities.""The commercial and political ties between Hong Kong and the UAE are growing ever stronger. It is clear we both approach business in the same way, backing innovation, investing in technology and looking for sustainable solutions. This business mission to the UAE shows the depth of existing commercial relationships and the potential to do a lot more."In response, H.E. Dr Thani bin Ahmed Al-Zeyoudi stressed the strength and durability of the strategic relations between the United Arab Emirates and the People's Republic of China, which are witnessing continuous development, especially in the areas of economics and trade. The forward-looking and visionary leadership of the two countries is building a strong partnership, opening up new opportunities and broadening bilateral economic cooperation.His Excellency added: "Strengthening investment and trade partnerships with Hong Kong supports the strategic cooperation between the UAE and China and contributes to opening new business fields, stimulating communication between the Emirati-Chinese business communities, especially in light of new economic opportunities".His Excellency continued: "The value of foreign trade between the UAE and Hong Kong amounted to about AED32 billion (US$8.7 billion) during the first 9 months of 2022, achieving a growth of 36% compared to the same period in 2021, while Hong Kong was among the top 10 trading partners for the UAE during 2021, with a contribution of more than 2% of the UAE's total non-oil trade."His Excellency indicated that the forum represents an important step in supporting increased trade and enhancing prospects for bilateral cooperation in a wide range of sectors, especially shipping, logistics, the service sector and air transport. It maximises benefits for Emirati companies and their counterparts in Hong Kong.HKTDC Chairman Dr Peter K N Lam mentioned in his opening remarks that "Dubai and Hong Kong are natural partners, when it comes to creating business opportunities. The signing of three MoUs* at our event tonight shows the tremendous potential for deeper collaboration. Creating business opportunities has been the work of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council for over 55 years, and I am pleased to be part of these exciting times."Representing the business community in Dubai, H.E. Abdul-Aziz Abdulla Al Ghurair, Chairman of Dubai Chambers, commented: "I am proud to say that the UAE is the largest trading partner for Hong Kong in the Middle East. Non-oil trade between the UAE and Hong Kong reached AED22.2 billion in the first half of 2022, registering 16.2% growth compared to the first half of 2021. With the presence of our new international office in Hong Kong, I look forward to seeing continued collaboration with our Hong Kong counterparts and seeing the relationship between our countries thrive and prosper even more."In the trade delegation, Chief Executive Mr Lee is joined by three principal officials: Deputy Secretary of Justice Mr Horace Cheung, Secretary for Financial Services and Treasury Mr Christopher Hui and Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Mr Algernon Yau.Other business leaders from Hong Kong and the Emirates also exchanged views at a panel discussion yesterday. Chaired by Mr Yau, panel speakers included Mr Nicolas Aguzin, Chief Executive Officer of Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Ltd, Dr Sunny Chai, Chairman of the Federation of Hong Kong Industries and Chairman of the Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), Mr Horace Cheung, and H.E. Hussain Al Mahmoudi, Chief Executive Officer of Sharjah Research Technology & Innovation Park (SRTIP) and H.E. Faisal Juma Khalfan Belhoul, Vice Chairman of Dubai International Chamber.* 3 MOUs have been signed between:- HKTDC and Dubai Chamber- Ho & Partners Architects, Negawatt, Masdar City, and The Catalyst- HKSTP and Sharjah Research Technology & Innovation ParkHong Kong: Ready for businessAs a two-way platform between China and the world and as one of the world's top financial centres, Hong Kong has been supporting businesses and investors worldwide to tap into the vast China and Asia market as well as playing a major role in the global financial system with special connectivity to the China market.As part of China, but operating under an international system, Hong Kong provides special access to and from the mainland in the flow of capital, goods, technology and people, as defined in the country's national 14th Five-Year Plan. Hong Kong is also a commercial hub for the Belt and Road Initiative, a global development plan initiated by China, and part of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) - an area in Southern China earmarked by the Chinese government as a powerhouse of capital, I&T and cultural exchange driving the country's development.With the city's common law system, low tax regime, advanced infrastructure and connectivity and a long history as an international trade and business hub, Hong Kong is well-placed to support businesses from all over the world to invest and grow.Recently, the HKSAR Chief Executive announced in his Policy Address 2022 the wide array of incentives and measures to attract international strategic enterprises and investments to Hong Kong, particularly in areas such as life sciences, health technology, artificial intelligence and data science, financial technology, advanced manufacturing and new energy technology.Find out more about Hong Kong:- Hong Kong: general facts https://tinyurl.com/Asias-world-city- Hong Kong as a global financial centre https://tinyurl.com/Financial-Centre- Hong Kong's tech and innovation https://tinyurl.com/Tech-Innovation- Hong Kong as the commercial hub for the Belt and Road Initiative https://tinyurl.com/Belt-and-Road- Hong Kong as part of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area https://tinyurl.com/Greater-Bay-Area- Photo Download: https://bit.ly/40LxYMuAbout HKTDCThe 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 enquiriesCredo Communications:Habib Bacha, Tel: +971 (50) 111 3799, Email: habib.bacha@credocomms.comHKTDC:Sunny Ng, Tel: +852 2584 4357, Email: sunny.sl.ng@hktdc.orgSam Ho, Tel: +852 2584 4569, Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.org 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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Guangxi University of Foreign Language signs Memorandum of Understanding with Hang Seng University of Hong Kong

HONG KONG, Dec 16, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Guangxi University of Foreign Languages ("GUFL") and The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong ("HSUHK") signed a Memorandum of Understanding ("MoU") on 30 November 2022. The MoU promotes a deeper cooperation between the two universities by integrating resources, academic strengths, research and other specialized academic fields. It also enhances the cultivation of top-notch multilingual talents with international perspectives that are needed to support the Greater Bay Area's future development. Additionally, it encourages graduates from the two universities to explore the tremendous market opportunities available within the ASEAN economies that are being fueled by the Belt and Road Initiative. Front row from left, Professor Gibert Fong (2nd), Professor Bradley R. Barnes (3rd), Ms. Wei Qian (4th), and Mr. Chow Ka Wo, Alex as well as other representatives took a group photo after the signing ceremony.Representatives who attended the online signing ceremony include Professor Gibert Fong, Dean from School of Translation & Foreign Languages of HSUHK, Professor Bradley R. Barnes, Dean from Business of School of HSUHK, Ms. Wei Qian, Executive Director, the chairlady of the Board and the chief executive officer of InnoEd Group Limited, Chairman and CEO, and Mr. Chow Ka Wo, Alex, Chief financial officer of InnoEd Group Limited. The MoU creates a unique collaborative arrangement that establishes exchange services between the two universities and enriches students learning experience. The student exchange program enables eligible students to enroll at the other's university in order to widen their academic exposure and enhance their international experience. Additionally, a faculty exchange program is being established to promote academic interaction and cooperation, as well as create a strong foundation to develop joint training programs, joint research programs, and share teaching curriculum. The two universities will promote academic cooperation and educational programs development by regular exchanges, mutual visits, academic interaction and cooperation between faculty and students. Futhermore, the universities will actively explore opportunities to cooperate in joint research projects, international conferences, seminars and other academic exchange activities to enhance their academic reputations, strengthen their education programs in related industries and promote mutual progress in teaching, research and other academic aspects.Expanding higher education's prospects through cooperation, cultivating talents with international perspectives GUFL's management stated that GUFL aims to cultivate talents with multiple language skills, practical business knowledge and international perspectives. GUFL is ideally positioned in Guangxi, a frontier and important window for exchanges and cooperation between China and the ASEAN countries. The university is using its geographical advantage to develop the necessary talent to support the development of the ASEAN region and Belt and Road Initiative. In contrast, HSUHK is based in Hong Kong, a renowned international city that plays an important role in the development of the Greater Bay Area. The university implements a unique "Liberal + Professional" education model that prioritizes teaching quality and students' all-round development to foster students realizing their full potential.Through the universities' exchange programs and cooperation, the Management believes that it will not only help expand cooperation between other universities in Mainland China and Hong Kong to develop similar academic exchange programs, joint research and other collaborations, but also promote students from the two places to gain a broader international perspective and contribute to the country's future development. The GUFL program will bolster students' knowledge of non-language majors while also developing their foreign language skills. This program embraces the school's educational philosophy of placing equal emphasis on language learning and professional education, while also enabling students to broaden their international perspective through attending HSUHK. Additionally, the cooperation provides an opportunity for HSUHK students to develop a second language, and learn about Southeast Asian culture. Essentially, the exchange program cultivates outstanding talents who can contribute to the deepening ASEAN economic cooperation and development. With unique teaching backgrounds and geographical advantages, the cooperation is expected to develop talents with international vision and promote the diversification and internationalization of the higher education industry in both Mainland China and Hong Kong.Pursing national policies to advance the Greater Bay Area developmentThe Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Party and the State Council issued its "Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area", which calls for building an education and talent highland in the Greater Bay Area. The outline includes cooperation among schools and universities, encouraging joint development of advantageous disciplines, laboratories and research centers, supporting the construction of an international education demonstration zone in the Greater Bay area, encouraging Hong Kong and Macao youths to study in Mainland China schools, promoting cooperation in various aspects of vocational education in Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao, expanding cooperation between the Mainland China, Hong Kong and Macao universities, and supporting exchanges and cooperation among various vocational education training bases."This cooperation closely follows the Greater Bay Area development plan and is in line with the Greater Bay Area's talent cultivation policy. Both institutions will further explore innovative ways to strengthen students' academic progress through exchange programs and interactions between teachers and students, so as to empower the future development of the Greater Bay Area." The Management continued. Providing Hong Kong's needed multilingual talent, deepening and expanding the market opportunities in ASEAN region and the Belt and Road Initiative As the international city of the Greater Bay Area, Hong Kong has many permanent residents from ASEAN countries. The open economic system and position as an international financial, trade and shipping centre creates strong demand for multilingual talents. GUFL, as the only private undergraduate university of foreign languages in Guangxi, specializes in providing top quality language programs focusing on Southeast Asian languages. The university embraces the mission of "Established in Guangxi, Oriented towards China, Radiate to Southeast Asia" to meet the many evolving demands driven by local and regional socio-economic developments. The exchange programs and cooperation will not only help meet Hong Kong's demand for multilingual talents, but will also provide Hong Kong students with the opportunity to experience Guangxi and learn about Southeast Asia's diverse culture. This knowledge will be invaluable to developing career opportunities in the Asia Pacific region.The GUFL Management commented, "Signing the MoU with HSUHK opens up new prospects for the university and our students. The cooperation will enable us to cultivate more multilingual talents with an international perspective. Simultaneously, it enhances the relationship between two top universities, and further strengthens the communication between the Mainland China and Hong Kong in the field of higher education."Looking forward, Management expects to develop stronger professional and applied Southeast Asian language programs and cultivate more talents with a balanced emphasis on strengthening language skills and professional education, thereby promoting the integrated development of Guangxi and the ASEAN regions for building a strong highly educated society.About Guangxi University of Foreign LanguagesGuangxi University of Foreign Languages ("GUFL") is affiliated to the InnoEd Group Limited, who is the largest private foreign language higher education institution in China. GUFL is the largest private undergraduate education institution in Guangxi in terms of undergraduate enrolment in the 2020/2021 academic year, according to Frost & Sullivan. GUFL primarily offers bachelor's degree programmes and junior college diploma programmes. The curricula is designed with a distinct emphasis on the integration of language learning with professional education. It specializes in the education of Southeast Asian languages, including Thai, Vietnamese, Cambodian, Lao and Indonesian. Meanwhile, it offers 56 majors across six main academic disciplines, including literature, economics, management, education, arts and engineering.The two campuses of GUFL are situated in Nanning, Guangxi, the permanent site of the China-ASEAN Expo, and Fusui, Guangxi, National Nanning - ASEAN Economic Development Zone, being strategic locations in the development of free trade and economic cooperation between China and the ASEAN. GUFL has adopted the service-oriented positioning of "Established in Guangxi, Oriented towards the entire China, Radiate to the Southeast Asia" and has a mission to cultivate talent with niche language skills, practical knowledge and an international perspective to meet the evolving demands driven by local and regional socio-economic developments. Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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Vietnam – Hong Kong New Vision . New Opportunities – Smart Cities’ Leaders Forum Closes with Great Success

HONG KONG, Nov 22, 2022 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Supported by the Consulate General of Vietnam in Hong Kong, hosted by CT Group, and organized by New Media Foundation and Aliquantum Group, "Vietnam - Hong Kong: New Vision . New Opportunities - Smart Cities' Leaders" forum-cum-luncheon (the "forum") was successfully held at Island Shangri-La, Hong Kong this afternoon. The gathering of ministerial officials, business leaders and professionals from diverse industries at the forum discussed the booming business opportunities in and between Vietnam and Hong Kong. The forum featured a welcome speech made by Mr Wu Ting Yuk, Anthony, GBS, JP, Member of the Standing Committee of the CPPCC National Committee and Honourable Advisor, New Media Foundation, with him mentioning the changes Vietnam has undergone for the betterment of future and that this forum has given them a great chance to discuss tourism, culture and other business opportunities between Vietnam and Hong Kong. Followed by addresses from Mr Pham Binh Dam, Consulate-General of the S.R of Viet Nam in the Hong Kong SAR and also Professor Hu Shao Ming, Herman, SBS, JP, Deputy, the 12th/13th National People's Congress of the People's Republic of China and Chairman, Ryoden Development Ltd., expressing their appreciation of the forum's aim of promoting cooperation between Vietnam and Hong Kong. The aforementioned together with Mr Tran Kim Chung, Chairman of CT Group; Ms Tran Ghue Giao, Member of the Board of Directors of CT Group and CT Land; Academician, Dr Pham Khoi Nguyen, Senior advisor of CT Group; Dr Lam Kin Chung, Honorary Doctoral of Hanoi University; Mr Tse Hoi Ga, Edgar, Chief Operating Officer of CT Land; Professor Chiu Tsang Hok Wan, BBS, JP, Founding Chairman, Greater China Culture Global Association and Dr Ho Wai Fung, Vincent, Founder and Chairman, New Media Foundation, cut the ribbon to official mark the start of the forum. At the forum, Mr Tran Kim Chung made a presentation themed "Vietnam's New Vision . New Opportunities", during which he shared his insights on the potentials Vietnam has and his hope to promote in-depth trade exchanges among ASEAN countries. CT Group, one of the largest developers in Vietnam, has with foresights spent the last 30 years meticulously preparing to "shift and become a future technology dragon" and a comprehensive urban developer. Mr Tran Kim Chung stated: "CT Group will continue to build on its strengths and play a vital role in business cooperation, supporting the incredible development in both Hong Kong and Vietnam, plus aiding their connection with the international market."The panel discussion at the forum had Professor Hung Wai Man, Witman, JP, as moderator, and Mr Pong Po Lam, Paul and Professor Lam Pong Yuen, Howard, as guest speakers, sharing their inspiring insights under the theme "New Opportunities". The speakers highly rated Hong Kong's internationally-recognised, forward-looking financial regulatory environment and emphasised Vietnam's great development prospects, as well as the strive to push for new breakthroughs and stronger ties between the two sides.The forum closed with the remarks of Dr Ho Wai Fung, Vincent. He said: "On behalf of New Media Foundation, I give my heartfelt appreciation to all of our guests who are here today to share with us their valuable insights. I believe the forum has given us a guiding vision on achieving interconnection between Vietnam and Hong Kong and seeing that interconnection become yet more diverse and in-depth in the future." Copyright 2022 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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Hitachi High-Tech: Online Science Classes for Schools in the Republic of Azerbaijan

TOKYO, Feb 16, 2022 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Hitachi High-Tech Corporation ("Hitachi High-Tech") has announced that it is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and the Republic of Azerbaijan this year. As part of its exchange program to commemorate the "Year of Friendship between Japan and Azerbaijan 2022(1)", a total of four science lessons will be held online for students aged 8-13 in schools in Azerbaijan between February and November 2022. Hitachi High-Tech RUS Limited Liability Company (Hitachi High-Tech Russia, Moscow) are conducting online classes for schools in Azerbaijan, in which we plan to have students remotely control the tabletop electron microscope installed at the Hitachi High-Tech Head Office (Minato-ku, Tokyo), requiring all three locations to be connected simultaneously.By participating in this project, Hitachi High-Tech will contribute to developing the next-generation of scientific researchers by communicating the fun of science to students in Azerbaijan through the microscopic world.Schedule and host cities for Hitachi High-Tech online lessons:Friday 02/18/2022 - BakuFriday 05/20/2022 - ShamakhiFriday 07/08/2022 - BakuFriday 11/11/2022 - ShekiHitachi High-Tech's science outreach programThe Hitachi High-Tech Group has identified important issues to engage with in order to use its own businesses to address social issues based on the SDGs, a set of common rules and targets for the international community in the 21st century. One of these issues is "Contributing to the Sustained Development of Science and Industry." Hitachi High-Tech's core technologies of Observation, Measurement, and Analysis, which we have cultivated through our business operations, as well as our products that support the promotion of science education, contribute to developing the next generation of scientific researchers.The Hitachi High-Tech Group develops and sells cutting-edge tabletop electron microscopes that are compact while enabling sample observation and analysis with high magnification and precision. By using these to conduct lessons at elementary and junior high schools, along with lending them to science museums and exhibitions, the Hitachi High-Tech Group has offered schoolchildren the experience of being able to observe everyday items at the micro scale, and has provided science outreach programs to get more children interested in science since 2005.These activities are not just limited to Japan, with lessons being carried and equipment lent to educational institutions all over the world. They are now conducted in 28 countries around the world, with more than 240,000 children and students taking part(2). As part of the 2017 "Year of Japan in Ukraine(3)" and the 2018 "Year of Japan in Russia(4)", lessons and science events featuring tabletop electron microscopes were held for local students in commemoration. Opportunities for online science education support activities have increased since 2020, and online lessons were also offered as part of this commemorative exchange program.In the future, Hitachi High-Tech will continue to work on science outreach programs with various related organizations, contributing to solving educational issues and creating social and environmental value in order to develop the next generation of research and development personnel.(1) In 2022, Japan and Azerbaijan celebrate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. The "Year of Friendship" refers to the Year of Friendship between Japan and Azerbaijan, which aims to deepen the relationship between Azerbaijan and Japan by conducting exchange projects in various fields, such as culture, economy, and politics. For more information, please see the following page about the 2022 Year of Friendship between Japan and Azerbaijan.(2) Results for FY2005-2020(3) 2017 was the 25th year since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Japan and Ukraine so was designated as the "Year of Japan in Ukraine," with various cultural and exchange events held in Ukraine.(4) The "Year of Japan in Russia" and the "Year of Russia in Japan" were jointly held to promote increased people-to-people interaction between the two countries, with various events being held to introduce Japan across a wide range of fields.About Hitachi High-TechHitachi High-Tech, headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, is engaged in activities in a broad range of fields, including Analytical & Medical Solutions (manufacture and sales of clinical analyzers, biotechnology products, and analytical instruments), Nano-Technology Solutions (manufacture and sales of semiconductor manufacturing equipment and analysis equipment), and Industrial Solutions (providing high value-added solutions in fields of social & industrial infrastructures and mobility, etc.).The company's consolidated revenues for FY 2020 were approx. JPY 606.3 billion [USD 5.7 billion]. For further information, visit http://www.hitachi-hightech.com/global/ Copyright 2022 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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The Inaugural World FinTech Summit Virtually Convened Saudi’s Top FinTech Leaders To Discuss Its FinTech Ecosystem

Delhi, India, Dec 23, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - World FinTech Summit - KSA which took place on 6 December 2021, attracted some of the prominent voices in the FinTech space such as Ihab Hawari Chief Information Technology Officer, Aljabr Holding; Yahia Kafi, CFO, ALJ Enterprises; Ali Alomran, Financial Technology Expert; Faisal Alyousef, Chief Business Officer, Saudi Financial Technology - Alinma Bank; and Loredana Matei; Founder, Finsight.news to name a few.More than 200 FinTech experts, business leaders, industry experts, innovators, government officials, and startups from around the world attended the summit, which featured informative keynotes and networking sessions where they shared ground-breaking insights into FinTech industry and future strategies.The show covered key topics such as The FinTech and banking landscape in KSA, the New language of FinTech World: API's, Convergence between FinTech and other sectors, Convergence between FinTech and other sectors and much more.Ben Lloyd, Head of Digital Product, Banque Saudi Fransi discussed at length The FinTech and banking landscape in KSA. He stated that, "With the changing banking model as a result of open banking we see other organizations use this as an opportunity to start API services and banking as a service."Dr Makoto Shibata, Head of Finolab, Chief Community Officer, FINOLAB Inc. in his keynote spoke about how Covid-19 has speeded up digital transformation and has changed the relationship between banking and customers. He also discussed how existing business should improve their existing business to improve efficiency or reduce costs. He further stated that, "FinTech was thought to be disruptive but we saw that more collaborations happening between startups and financial institutions and this collaboration between them would be the main driver for improvement."World FinTech Summit - KSA also saw an engaging panel discussion on the topic' Convergence between FinTech and other sectors' which was moderated by Shadi Dawi, Chief Program Director, TECHx Media. The panellist discussed how FinTech has not only continued to innovate in the banking and financial sphere but have also moved to advise and guide companies from all sectors in their digitization processes.The panellists included Hesham Saad Al Ghamdi, Group Chief Data and Analytics Officer, Abdul Latif Jameel; Essam Fawzy, Senior Program Manager, FinTech Consultant, Saudi British Bank; Bader Alswailem; Chief Executive Officer, Yanal Finance Company; and Anuscha Iqbal, CEO, Spotii. According to Mithun Shetty, CEO, Trescon, "To stay ahead financial institutions who are unable to adapt and make improvements in their operations will be left behind in this new wave of technological innovation." He further added that "FinTech isn't merely a term that refers to the convergence of technology and finance. In the future FinTech will determine the direction of the next wave of changes in the market. Financial institutions must make some reforms to achieve success."The show was hosted on the virtual events platform Vmeets which helped the participants to network and conduct business in an interactive and immersive virtual environment. Participants were also able to engage with speakers in Q&A sessions and network with solution providers in virtual exhibition booths, private consultation rooms and private networking rooms.World FinTech Summit - KSA was officially sponsored by Silver Sponsor - Spotii and Bronze Sponsor - Sary Technologies.About World FinTech Summit - KSAWorld FinTech Summit is a thought-leadership-driven, business-focused, global series of events that takes place in strategic locations across the world.As part of the world tour, the inaugural edition in KSA is virtually gathering pre-qualified CFOs, CEOs, CTOs, Heads of Business Transformation, Chief Digital Officers, Heads of Innovation and International finance experts from the industry.The summit features exciting keynotes, enterprise use-case presentations, product showcase, panel discussions and tech talks to discuss the latest challenges for the sector arising out of the pandemic situation. Witness next-gen financial solutions from global leaders and explore their relevance and impact on your organisation.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. For further details, please contact: Karthik, Marketing Lead, Trescon marketing@tresconglobal.com Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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50% more bus tickets for quarantine-free travel between S’pore and JB from Dec 20

SINGAPORE - It will be easier to go to Johor Baru next week, with a wider range of timings for the designated buses plying the route. The two bus operators under the Vaccinated Travel Lane (VTL) scheme have said that they will be able to increase the number of tickets sold for quarantine-free travel between Singapore and Malaysia by 50 per cent when the expanded land VTL kicks in on Dec 20. The moves come after Singapore's Ministry of Trade and Industry (MTI) announced on Tuesday (Dec 14) that vaccinated Singapore citizens can enter Malaysia from next week via the Causeway, and vice versa. Currently, only citizens, permanent residents and long-term pass holders of the country they are entering can travel via the land VTL. One of the designated bus operators, Causeway Link, announced on Tuesday that it will operate 10 more services in each direction between Larkin Sentral in Johor Baru and Queen Street in Singapore. The increased frequency will kick in from Dec 20. The operator currently operates 16 services in each direction daily. Tickets have been available for purchase at the operator's website since 8am on Wednesday. A spokesman for Causeway Link, which is also known as Handal Indah, told The Straits Times that its quota for tickets for land VTL travellers has been increased by 50 per cent. Under current VTL rules, the two designated bus operators are allowed to each sell up to 1,440 tickets a day to people travelling between Malaysia and Singapore. But from next week, Causeway Link said it will be able to sell 720 more tickets to accommodate the expected increase in demand. The other operator, Singapore-based Transtar, said on its Facebook page on Wednesday that it will also be operating more services from Dec 20. It is currently operating 16 buses in each direction between Woodlands and Larkin Sentral. From next week, it will provide eight more bus services daily in each direction. The additional tickets will go on sale on Friday. More on this topic   Related Story S'pore citizens can enter Malaysia via land VTL from Dec 20   Related Story Singapore-Malaysia land VTL: What documents do I need to enter Malaysia? MTI did not provide specific details when asked on Tuesday whether the daily limit on land VTL travellers will be increased from Dec 20. A spokesman said: "We are monitoring the demand for VTL (land) carefully, and will adjust and review the VTL (land) capacity accordingly, taking into account the public health situation in both countries." All travellers entering Singapore will have to abide by the prevailing test protocols and safe management measures, said MTI. For example, all travellers entering Singapore will have to undergo a seven-day Covid-19 antigen rapid test (ART) regime after arrival. They have to take self-administered ARTs daily till the seventh day after their arrival. The tests on days three and seven have to be done at a testing centre. Travellers entering Malaysia will be subject to a daily Covid-19 testing regime for six days, under the country's current rules. More on this topic   Related Story Over 5,000 travelled via land VTL between Singapore and Malaysia in first 5 days   Related Story Daily ART tests for all VTL travellers arriving in S'pore from Dec 7

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JCB and Datachain Start Demonstration Experiment to Build a “Digital Currency Exchange Platform”

TOKYO, Dec 9, 2021 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - JCB Co., Ltd., Japan's only international payment brand, and Datachain has started a demonstration experiment on interoperability between different blockchains(*1) to build a "digital currency exchange platform".In the near future, various digital currency and circulation platforms are expected to be launched, including those issued by the private sector in addition to the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC). As the existing fiat currencies are widely exchanged, it is essential to develop exchange functions that enable interoperability among digital currency platforms to make use of digital currencies. For now, the most common way to exchange digital currencies is to have a third party mediate the transaction. However, given the fact that blockchain was originally designed to be "autonomous and decentralized", it is highly likely that exchanges that do not rely on a third party will be widespread in the future.As the first stage of the joint research, JCB and Datachain, which has expertise in interoperability technology, have been discussing the technical usefulness of a method for interoperability between different blockchains that does not rely on the trust of a third party (the Relay method *2), aiming to acquire the ability to exchange between digital currencies. Now, in collaboration with Datachain, JCB has started a demonstration experiment of interoperability between different blockchains to build a "digital currency exchange platform."The purpose of this demonstration experiment is to verify the technical usefulness of introducing a hub structure using IBC (*3) for interoperability between heterogeneous blockchains through the Relay method.By combining the assets and know-how of both companies, JCB and Datachain aim to continue to create innovative services and discuss widely with companies and projects responsible for the digital currency-issuing infrastructure for the practical application of interoperability between different blockchains.The demonstration experiment will be conducted in the following environment.https://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Digital_currency_exchange_platform.jpg- Rather than blockchains verifying each other directly, verification will be executed between each blockchain and the exchange platform that serves as a hub, using a method that does not rely on the third-party trust by IBC.- This Hub mechanism allows various IBC-compliant blockchains to verify each other through this hub. However, in this demonstration experiment, Hyperledger Fabric, one of the world's most used enterprise blockchains, and Tendermint, a blockchain used by CBDC and global stable coins as a blockchain developed to connect heterogeneous distributed ledgers, will be used as the blockchain infrastructures.- We use YUI, a Hyperledger Lab (*4), as the verification modules and IBC for communication between each blockchain and the hub.- For cross-chain transactions (simultaneous execution of multiple transactions across blockchains), we use Cross Framework (*5).*1 Blockchain: Information technology that allows participants to share the same ledgers and record the transfer of assets and rights without a specific administrator.*2 YUI, a Hyperledger Lab: A project to achieve interoperability across various blockchain platforms through IBC, led by Datachain and available in OSS as Hyperledger Lab. GitHub: https://github.com/hyperledger-labs/yui-docs*3 Cross Framework: A framework for enabling the execution of smart contracts across multiple blockchains (cross-chain smart contracts). GitHub: https://github.com/datachainlab/cross*4 IBC: Inter-Blockchain Communication. A specification standard to ensure interoperability between blockchains, being developed by the Interchain Foundation and the Cosmos Project.*5 Relay method: There are two interoperability methods that do not rely on a third party to mediate transactions: the "HTLC method" and the "Relay method." The "Relay method" allows service users to automatically execute transactions without handing over their private keys to an administrator.About JCBJCB is a major global payment brand and a leading credit card issuer and acquirer in Japan. JCB launched its card business in Japan in 1961 and began expanding worldwide in 1981. Its acceptance network includes about 36 million merchants around the world. JCB Cards are issued mainly in Asian countries and territories, with more than 140 million cardmembers. As part of its international growth strategy, JCB has formed alliances with hundreds of leading banks and financial institutions globally to increase its merchant coverage and cardmember base. As a comprehensive payment solution provider, JCB commits to providing responsive and high-quality service and products to all customers worldwide. For more information, please visit: www.global.jcb/en/About DatachainDatachain is a leading technology company that aims to create value through interoperability for blockchains. Datachain is the initial committer of YUI, a Hyperledger Lab, that enables interoperability between multiple heterogeneous blockchains via Cosmos IBC and develops Cross Framework that enables cross-chain transactions. Website: https://www.datachain.jp/ContactJCBAyaka NakajimaCorporate CommunicationsTel: +81-3-5778-8353Email: jcb-pr@jcb.co.jp Copyright 2021 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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GBA companies eyeing ASEAN opportunities

Strong interconnectivity between regions boosts trade and investment HONG KONG, Nov 29, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Close to 60 per cent of companies in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) are considering further expansion into the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) countries in the next three years, a research report by UOB Hong Kong Branch and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) indicates. The Trade and Investment between GBA and ASEAN and the Roles of Hong Kong report also found GBA companies highly value Hong Kong’s services[1] and expect the city’s role as a business hub facilitating trade and investment between the two regions to grow in importance. Among the 10 ASEAN countries, Singapore, Malaysia, Vietnam, Thailand and the Philippines, are the most popular trade and investment destinations. In the next three years, most of the GBA companies will choose Singapore (55.4 per cent), Malaysia (53.0 per cent) and Vietnam (51.1 per cent) as markets for sales, while Vietnam (14.5 per cent), Thailand (10.4 per cent) and Indonesia (8.1 per cent) are the preferred production or sourcing bases. Another 10.4 per cent of the GBA companies also preferred to set up their regional offices in Singapore. The GBA companies surveyed said ASEAN countries’ cost-effectiveness, abundant resources and huge markets are the key pull factors. Those in the industrial goods sector expressed the greatest interest (6.56 out of 10) in expanding their business further in ASEAN. This was followed by companies in real estate, hospitality and construction (6.21), as well as the business, professional and financial services sectors (5.71). Mrs Christine Ip, CEO – Greater China of UOB, said, “Cross-border trade and investment flows between ASEAN countries and the GBA are driven by the two regions’ increasing interconnectivity and collaboration in areas such as sustainable development. At UOB, we are committed to assisting companies in capturing overseas business opportunities through our deep sectoral expertise, strong local talents and our extensive footprint in Southeast Asia. Over the past 10 years, the UOB Foreign Direct Investment Advisory Unit has supported more than 3,500 companies in their cross-border investments, of which about one-third are Chinese companies.” Mr Nicholas Kwan, Director of Research, HKTDC, said, Hong Kong must further foster its interconnectivity with other GBA cities and ASEAN countries in order to boost its role in facilitating two-way trade and investment flows. He said: “When the pandemic subsides and border controls relax, cross-border trade and investment will be more active. GBA companies must reconnect with overseas buyers and partners quickly. Being the trade fair capital and business hub in Asia, Hong Kong can help GBA companies fortify ties with their counterparts in ASEAN and promote trade between the two regions.” Hong Kong’s role and services sector highly regarded The research also showed that GBA companies value Hong Kong’s role in the region’s collaboration with ASEAN countries, giving the city an average score of 7.33 out of 10. Almost half (47.2 per cent) gave a score of eight to 10. Respondents hope that within the GBA, Hong Kong can be a one-stop business centre (41.6 per cent), provide a simplified and harmonised tax system (38.7 per cent) and offer more diversified investment products and services (38.4 per cent). In addition, respondents said MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions) (45.4 per cent), sales and marketing (41.4 per cent), logistics and supply chain management (39.0 per cent) as well as financial services (37.7 per cent) are the most frequently-used services in Hong Kong. Respondents are highly satisfied with the level of services and said they will use more of these services in the next three years. For their overseas expansion into ASEAN countries, GBA companies look to Hong Kong to provide more comprehensive information, services and support (40.9 per cent). They also hope public bodies or regulatory institutions can do more in facilitating trade and investment flows with their ASEAN counterparts (39.4 per cent) and formulate policies to open up regional trade and investment further (39.1 per cent). Mr Kwan said GBA companies highly appreciate Hong Kong’s advantages in business environment, financial infrastructure and cross-border resource flow. “Most of them believe that the city’s transparent regulatory system, extensive commercial network, diversified financial and banking services, coupled with free flow of goods and capital among GBA cities, and absence of foreign exchange and capital controls with ASEAN, make Hong Kong an ideal two-way platform to facilitate trade and investment between the GBA and ASEAN.” Mrs Ip said, “As an international financial centre with a strategic location within the GBA, Hong Kong can further enhance its role as an essential bridge for GBA companies when they expand into ASEAN countries. UOB’s dedicated Greater Bay Area team in Hong Kong also plays our part in helping GBA companies understand and appreciate the diversity of the ASEAN markets to capture more regional business opportunities.” The Trade and Investment between GBA and ASEAN and the Role of Hong Kong report is based on a survey conducted by the HKTDC from July to September 2021 with 657 GBA-based companies from various sectors. These included consumer goods, industrial goods, business, professional and financial services, real estate, hospitality and construction, as well as technology, media and telecommunications. In-depth interviews were also conducted with some respondents to understand the opportunities and challenges they faced in their business expansion in ASEAN countries, as well as their views on Hong Kong’s roles in promoting trade and investment between GBA and ASEAN. The full report in Chinese can be downloaded from the websites of UOB Hong Kong and HKTDC. Media Enquiries UOB Hong KongStrategic Communications, Brand and Customer InsightsSusanna LiuTel: +852 2123 7537 / 6291 8169Email: susanna.liuwy@uobgroup.com HKTDCCommunications and Public Affairs DepartmentBeatrice LamTel: +852 2584 4049 / 9036 0212Email: beatrice.hy.lam@hktdc.org References– HKTDC Research Portal: http://research.hktdc.com/tc– Trade and Investment between GBA and ASEAN and the Roles of Hong Kong: https://bit.ly/3nQArU7– Photo Download: https://bit.ly/3o1Hdqf About UOB United Overseas Bank Limited (UOB) is a leading bank in Asia with a global network of around 500 branches and offices in 19 countries and territories in Asia Pacific, Europe and North America. Since its incorporation in 1935, UOB has grown organically and through a series of strategic acquisitions. UOB is rated among the world’s top banks: Aa1 by Moody’s Investors Service and AA- by both S&P Global Ratings and Fitch Ratings. In Asia, UOB operates through its head office in Singapore and banking subsidiaries in China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam, as well as branches and representative offices across the region. Over more than eight decades, generations of UOB employees have carried through the entrepreneurial spirit, the focus on long-term value creation and an unwavering commitment to do what is right for our customers and our colleagues. We believe in being a responsible financial services provider and we are committed to making a difference in the lives of our stakeholders and in the communities in which we operate. Just as we are dedicated to helping our customers manage their finances wisely and to grow their businesses, UOB is steadfast in our support of social development, particularly in the areas of art, children and education. 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 [1] Hong Kong’s services include banking and finance, legal, dispute resolution, IP-related services, MICE (meetings, incentives, conferencing and exhibitions) services, logistics and supply chain management, sales and marketing, as well as research and development.

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7 men arrested for suspected illegal gambling; 49 people under investigation

SINGAPORE - Seven men, aged between 37 and 53, were arrested for their suspected involvement in illegal gambling, horse betting and remote gambling activities in three police operations in October and November. Another 45 men and four women, aged between 37 and 83, are also being investigated for the offences, said the Singapore Police Force on Wednesday (Dec 1). On Oct 29, officers from Central Police Division conducted an enforcement check on a shophouse unit in Norris Road suspected to house illegal gambling activities. Two men, aged between 37 and 53, were found to have allegedly organised illegal gambling activities for nine other men, aged between 37 and 67, who were also in the unit. The police said gambling equipment, such as poker cards, was found and seized, and seven men were arrested. The remaining four are under investigation. "All 11 men are assisting with investigations into breaches of safe distancing measures under the Covid-19 (Temporary Measures) (Control Order) Regulations 2020," added the police. On Nov 20, officers from Woodlands Police Division conducted an enforcement check in Marsiling Road. A man and a woman, aged between 60 and 62, were allegedly acting as bookmakers for two men and one woman, aged between 52 and 61, who had purportedly placed bets on horses with them. Cash amounting to $1,100, two mobile phones and betting equipment were seized. The five of them are assisting with investigations. In a third operation on Nov 20 and 21, officers from Central Police Division conducted a series of enforcement checks in Bendemeer Road, Beach Road, Sago Lane, New Market Street and King George's Avenue. "During the operations, 13 men, aged between 50 and 82, were found allegedly acting as bookmakers by collecting and placing bets through physical and remote means for 25 men and two women, aged between 46 and 83, who had allegedly placed bets on horses with the bookmakers," said the police. Cash amounting to $13,000, a mobile phone and betting equipment were seized. The 38 men and two women are assisting with investigations. More on this topic   Related Story Eight under probe for suspected illegal horse-betting activities in Singapore   Related Story 10 people probed for illegal horse-betting activities If found guilty of gaming in a common gaming house, offenders may be fined up to $5,000, jailed for up to six months, or both. Those found guilty of using a place as a common gaming house may be fined between $5,000 and $50,000, and jailed for up to three years. Those who breach safe distancing measures may be jailed for up to six months, fined up to $10,000, or both. Those found guilty of bookmaking may be fined between $20,000 and $200,000, and jailed for up to five years. Any person guilty of betting with a bookmaker can be fined up to $5,000, jailed for up to six months, or both. Those found guilty of unlawful remote gambling can be fined up to $5,000, jailed for up to six months, or both. Those convicted of providing unlawful remote gambling services can be fined between $20,000 and $200,000, or jailed for up to five years, or both. The police said that tough enforcement actions will be taken against illegal gambling and horse betting activities, and it also advised members of the public to take safe distancing measures seriously. More on this topic   Related Story Police investigating 21 people for alleged gambling offences, safe distancing breaches   Related Story Courts & Crime: Read more stories

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Discovering and realising new opportunities in Asia

HONG KONG, Nov 23, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - In order to strengthen the longstanding relationship between Hong Kong and UK businesses, the "Discovering and Realising New Opportunities in Asia" signature webinar was held last Thursday, 18 November, hosted by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and co-organised by the British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong.The officiating guests in Hong Kong included (from L) Margaret Fong, HKTDC Executive Director; Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC; Carrie Lam, Chief Executive of the HKSAR and Peter Burnett, Chairman of the British Chamber of Commerce in Hong KongThe webinar updated participants on the latest business developments in Hong Kong and examined the city's unique role as a multi-faceted hub that UK businesses can leverage to capture new opportunities in the dynamic Asian market, particularly the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) bloc.Over 700 participants took part in the webinar, including business leaders and senior government officials from Hong Kong and the UK. They were welcomed by Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC. In his opening remarks, Dr Lam said: "In 2020, Hong Kong was the UK's 12 largest trading partner in the world and the second largest in Asia, after Mainland China. Over US$6 billion of trade between the UK and Mainland China is routed through Hong Kong. As a global hub in finance, trade and logistics, our city has a long history of supporting international companies. Moreover, Hong Kong's role in connecting the world with China, the Greater Bay Area offers even more prospects as a resource hub and a market."Carrie Lam, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), delivered the keynote address on Hong Kong's role as a two-way platform for the world to connect with Mainland China and Asia. The Chief Executive remarked that "The best of Hong Kong is yet to come and Hong Kong's future is grounded in a very solid foundation." This is owing to the innovative "One Country, Two Systems" framework which will underline Hong Kong's continued success. Other important reasons for her optimism are that Hong Kong's traditional strengths and core values have been strengthened and the continuous, staunch support of the Central People's government which has enhanced Hong Kong's international proactiveness.Topical sessions explore business opportunities between HK and UKAttendees were invited to take part in three sessions in which senior figures from key players in the world of international business spotlighted topical issues in the areas of finance, business expansion in Asia and healthcare. In the session "Capitalising on New Opportunities in Asia's Financial Sector", guests heard the way forward for Hong Kong as an international financial centre and asset management hub, as well as new opportunities related to green and sustainable finance with a focus on the GBA and ASEAN. Christopher Hui, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of the HKSAR, remarked that "If you look at what we have done in terms of trying to foster the sustainability finance ecosystem in Hong Kong, we are exerting ourselves through various fronts. Number one priority is market creation and facilitation. When we do that, it is not just Hong Kong per se, but we will serve our country and the region at large."Speaking on Hong Kong's advantages as an asset management hub, particularly for those interested in Asia, China, and the transition to a lower carbon future Sir Douglas Flint, Chairman of abrdn plc said: "I think Hong Kong has a tremendous role to play because of the integrity of its regulatory system, its legal system and so on, in terms of giving a seal of approval and confidence in funds that are recognised in Hong Kong. I think broadly there is a very big opportunity for Hong Kong to create a funds framework to compete with the other major fund frameworks in the world."The second session, "The Future is Now: Expanding Your Business in Asia", provided an insight into Hong Kong's role as a trading and investment hub, and especially how UK businesses can leverage the Hong Kong platform to capture rising opportunities in Mainland China and ASEAN.On what makes Hong Kong such a special place to conduct business with Mainland China and the rest of the world, YK Pang, Deputy Managing Director & Chairman of Hong Kong Jardine Matheson Holdings Limited, said that "I will sum it up in one word, and that is connectivity. Connectivity comes from the geographic proximity to the mainland, the multicultural aspects of being in Hong Kong, where East-meets-West; it continues to be the gateway to the mainland, and, therefore, Hong Kong serves very well as a base to operate from, and will continue to be an important centre to conduct business with the mainland."The final session, on the topic of "Winning the Healthcare Sector in Asia", allowed attendees to gain a deeper understanding of the prospects for the Asian healthcare market and the vast opportunities it offers, and how businesses can take advantage of Hong Kong's strengths in the areas of research and development and fundraising to achieve this.Danny Yeung, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of Prenetics Group, commented "Hong Kong is a test bed. If you're able to succeed in Hong Kong, this actually creates much more opportunity within the GBA and Southeast Asia."The virtual event was held in lieu of the annual Hong Kong Dinner in London due to the ongoing COVID-19 situation. The dinner has been held annually since 1983 to celebrate and promote bilateral trade ties between Hong Kong and the UK.To watch the recorded webinar, please see this link: https://youtu.be/UWEEr_Hk2zMPhoto download: https://bit.ly/3cDo8EiAbout 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 LinkedInMedia enquiries:HKTDC's Communications & Public Affairs DepartmentSnowy Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4525, Email: snowy.sn.chan@hktdc.org Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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Tennis: Badosa beats Sakkari to remain unbeaten at WTA Finals

GUADALAJARA, MEXICO (AFP) - Spain's Paula Badosa fired 10 aces in a 7-6 (7/4), 6-4 round-robin victory over Maria Sakkari on Saturday (Nov 13), remaining unbeaten in the season-ending WTA Finals. Badosa, whose late season run of form included her biggest title to date at the pandemic-delayed hardcourt tournament in Indian Wells, California, in October, had already posted a convincing victory over tournament top seed Aryna Sabalenka to open group play. With her second victory she appeared on track to reach the knockout phase as one of the top two on her four-woman group, but she had to await the result of the night match between Iga Swiatek and Sabalenka to see if she would be assured of a semi-final spot before playing her third round-robin match. The elite eight-player event was moved to Guadalajara from Shenzhen, China, this year because of the coronavirus pandemic. World number one Ashleigh Barty of Australia is not defending her title because of continuing pandemic travel restrictions. Saturday's clash between Badosa and Sakkari, the first Greek to qualify for the Finals, was the first meeting between the two. Badosa needed just over two hours to stretch her current WTA winning streak to eight matches. After eking out the first-set tiebreaker, she grabbed an early break on the way to a 3-1 lead in the second set. Unable to capitalize on a string of break chances in the fifth game, Badosa was broken herself as Sakkari knotted the set at 4-4. Badosa responded immediately with a break for 5-4 and a chance to serve out the match, sealing it with a backhand winner on her third match point.

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S’pore musician Subhas Nair charged with trying to promote ill will between religious, ethnic groups

SINGAPORE - Local musician Subhas Nair was on Monday (Nov 1) charged with four counts of attempting to promote feelings of ill will between different religious and ethnic groups. In an earlier statement, the police said Nair, 29, was said to have breached a 24-month conditional warning for allegedly producing and publishing a racially charged rap video online. The clip is said to have attempted to promote feelings of ill will between Chinese people and other races. One of the terms of the warning - given on Aug 14, 2019 - stated that if he reoffended, Nair could be prosecuted for the offence for which he was warned, in addition to prosecution for any alleged fresh offence. Despite the warning, Nair allegedly posted comments on social media platform, Instagram, on July 25 last year, in response to a video of Chinese Christians who had made hateful comments against another community. He allegedly commented that Malay Muslims who make the same hateful comments would be treated differently by the authorities compared with the Chinese Christians. As a result, Nair - whose full name is Subhas Govin Prabhakar Nair - was also charged on Monday over his alleged 2019 offence linked to the rap video. He is also accused of trying to promote feelings of ill will between Chinese and Indians by claiming in a post on Instagram on Oct 15 last year, that one of the Chinese persons involved in the 2019 Orchard Towers murder of an Indian man purportedly received lenient treatment from the authorities because of his race. While under police investigation later, Nair allegedly tried to promote feelings of ill will between Chinese and Indians during an indoor stage performance on March 11, by exhibiting a cartoon drawing of his Oct 15 post. According to court documents, the play titled Tabula Rasa - Album Exploration was presented at The Substation arts centre in Armenian Street. Nair is represented by lawyer Eugene Thuraisingam. His case has been adjourned to Nov 29 and he was offered bail of $10,000. For each charge, an offender convicted of attempting to promote feelings of ill will between different groups on grounds of religion or race can be jailed for up to three years and fined. More on this topic   Related Story S'pore's new race law to include non-punitive sanctions to shape social behaviour   Related Story Courts & Crime: Read more stories

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Cros is Launching to Streamline Collaboration between Enterprises on Distributed Ledger

SINGAPORE, Oct 29, 2021 - (ACN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Cros Network (cros.network) is launching to streamline the collaboration between enterprises using distributed ledger. Cros is a cross-organizational platform designed to facilitate business process execution on a foundation of ownership, trust, and control. With this protocol, businesses can collaborate and securely execute their business processes in a tamper proof manner, without trusted intermediaries.While the global B2B e-commerce market size is estimated to reach $20.9 trillion by 2027, the industry has operational shortcomings that would prove more inefficient inching towards this growth; especially that business process collaboration could triple to $100 billion in the next five years, with 80% spent moving, aggregating, cleansing, verifying and sharing data with other businesses and stakeholders. Enterprise revenues are estimated to decrease by 27 to 40% as coordination costs increase proportionally by degree of specialization. Retailers in Asia alone lose around $40 billion annually, reliant on siloed processes and absence of trust among enterprises.The traditional view of markets and enterprises relies on sequential thinking, whether it is supply-chain or business value chain. Companies are slowly realizing that they are part of a larger network, not a link in a chain. This demands an ecosystem approach to resource planning, business process execution and collaboration between the various nodes of the network. Being a cross-organizational network built on distributed ledger, tamper-proof and seamless, Cros aims to fill in these gaps."The solution we envisioned was an innovative cross-org collaboration and integration platform; a decentralized integration platform, into which small and medium businesses can collaborate and correctly execute their business process without the need for trusted intermediaries," says Cros' visionary founder Ajay Bhandari, the former Google and Microsoft Chief Architect."Cros translates existing collaborative process models to distributed ledger and ensures that the process is secure and is executed correctly. Distributed ledger checks for compliance before changing a state of process, providing a single source of truth to all participants, and full traceability."Bhandari offers a solution for challenges related to data exchange, complicated transformations, traceability and shared truth, and trust between parties. Cros would be empowering enterprises to collaborate with ease, integrate with their IT infrastructure and Cloud ERPs, while preserving data guardianship and maintaining control.Similar problems were solved within the enterprise (intra-business integration) utilizing databases, service bus and ERP systems. However, those technologies and platforms are insufficient for cross-enterprise collaboration, due to concerns of ownership, trust and control. Enterprise today runs on centralized systems, coordinating transactions between suppliers, vendors, business partners and regulators. It is difficult to build consensus on running and operating cross-enterprise collaboration while addressing ownership, trust, and control issues.A paradigm shift is necessary, based on a completely revised definition of "ownership," "control," and "trust", the hallmarks of the operational model of traditional business. Distributed ledger technology can be the enabler of such a paradigm shift towards cooperative competition, or "co-opetition".Cros is the flagship project of Bussr Technologies (bussr.com), a leading Singaporean payments infrastructure platform for mobility companies. Bussr Technologies is partnering with best-in-class entities to build Cros, and foster the development of services and applications that will run on it.About CrosCros is the natural development evolved from the same ethos and philosophy of Bussr Technologies Ltd, with the aim to streamline collaboration between small, medium, and large enterprises using distributed ledger. Cros' approach is from enterprise to distributed ledger, thereby easing the familiar challenges of integration with existing infrastructure. Learn more at www.cros.network or contact press@cros.network.Media ContactHA, Bussr TechnologiesEmail: press@bussr.comWebsite: www.bussr.com Copyright 2021 ACN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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Non-profit organisation seeks to build connections between youth in Asean and China

SINGAPORE - It was her knowledge of Malay that helped Ms Lee Zi Xin, 26, land an internship in a venture capital firm in where some would consider an unlikely place - China. Having spent six years learning Malay as a third language in school as well as having done her master's degree in Mandarin, Ms Lee's strong bilingual ability allowed her to function as a channel between the firm and start-ups in Malaysia and Indonesia. Please subscribe or log in to continue reading the full article. Get unlimited access to all stories at $0.99/month Latest headlines and exclusive stories In-depth analyses and award-winning multimedia content Get access to all with our no-contract promotional package at only $0.99/month for the first 3 months* Subscribe now *Terms and conditions apply.

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MRT train fault on Circle Line causes delays of up to 30 minutes during morning peak period

SINGAPORE - A train fault caused delays of up to 30 minutes on the Circle Line (CCL) towards the end of morning peak period on Thursday (July 29). Rail operator SMRT first notified commuters about the delay in a tweet at about 9.10am. It told those taking the CCL to add 30 minutes of travel time between Caldecott and Kent Ridge stations, and later reduced the additional travel time between the seven stations to 15 minutes at 9.50am. Regular bus services between Bishan and HarbourFront stations were made free for commuters during the fault, which was cleared by about 10.05am, according to SMRT's tweets. A train shuttle service was also available between Caldecott and Kent Ridge stations during this time.

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MHI Thermal Systems fully revises a lineup of inverter multi-split air conditioners for buildings in its overseas markets

TOKYO, May 13, 2021 - (JCN Newswire via SEAPRWire.com) - Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Thermal Systems, Ltd., a part of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group, has redesigned all 17 models in its KXZ Series of building-use inverter multi-split air conditioners for its worldwide markets. Sales commenced in Europe and Australia in April 2021, with phase two of sales scheduled for a successive launch across Asia and Latin America.The new series, known as KXZ2, features a new exterior design while keeping the same outer unit dimensions. Further updates include greater flexibility when connecting indoor and outdoor units, increased operational controls, and enhanced efficiency alongside energy performance.Optimising installations and user-comfortThe KXZ2 line benefits from an increased vertical height difference(1) between indoor units and between indoor and outdoor units. A heightened difference between units creates a better-condensed refrigeration system in high-rise buildings with multiple indoor units, while also contributing to lower costs during installations. Further improvements for installations include increased flexibility to the units' exhaust ducts to support installations in narrow urban areas.Efficient and enhanced performanceImprovements based on energy and performance include an updated power demand control function with three levels, compared to the previous models' two levels, and a newly developed compressor(2) that utilises a thrust (shaft bearing) plate to reduce energy input. As well as an increased exhaust system of 85Pa, increasing from a previous 50Pa(3).Like the previous models, the new lineup has specifications to provide energy-efficient heating and cooling, particularly in the intermediate performance range. Including a multi-port system in the compressor scroll structure to limit power loss and an energy savings function that checks the internal room temperature to adjust the compressor rotation optimally.A combination of up to three outdoor units with 10 to 20 horsepower (HP) delivers up to 60HP in outputs. For export specifications, this relates to 10 to 60HP.Future outlookIn the future, MHI Thermal Systems will continue to expand its air conditioning equipment business by actively developing products with exceptional energy efficiency and operability for its packaged air conditioners and building air conditioning systems for its worldwide markets.(1) The elevation difference limitation has been expanded to 30 meters between indoor units (from 18m in previous models), and to 90 meters between indoor and outdoor units (from 70 meters) when the outdoor unit is installed above the indoor unit.(2) The 10, 12, 18 and 20HP models utilize concentrated winding motors that reduce loss in the motor winding component.(3) The pascal (Pa) is an international unit of pressure and stress, defined as the force of one newton per square meter. Copyright 2021 JCN Newswire. All rights reserved. (via SEAPRWire)

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askST: Will I be affected by the ongoing battle between doctors and IP insurers?

SINGAPORE - Doctors and Integrated Shield Plan (IP) insurers are currently locked in a battle over the relatively small number of preferred private specialists on the insurers' panels. The rift is not new but it intensified at the start of the week when the Singapore Medical Association (SMA), which has more than 8,200 members, issued a position statement on what it called "troubled" IPs. Please subscribe or log in to continue reading the full article. Get unlimited access to all stories at $0.99/month Latest headlines and exclusive stories In-depth analyses and award-winning multimedia content Get access to all with our no-contract promotional package at only $0.99/month for the first 3 months* Subscribe now *Terms and conditions apply.

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