VISTA EQUITY PARTNERS COMPLETES ACQUISITION OF DUCK CREEK TECHNOLOGIES

Boston, March 31 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Duck Creek Technologies (“Duck Creek”), the intelligent solutions provider defining the future of property and casualty (P&C) and general insurance, today announced the completion of its acquisition by Vista Equity Partners (“Vista”), a leading global investment firm focused exclusively on enterprise software, data, and technology-enabled businesses, for $19.00 per share, in an all-cash transaction valued at approximately $2.6 billion.

“We are excited to commence our partnership with Vista Equity Partners and work together to advance the next generation of P&C insurance technology,” said Michael Jackowski, Chief Executive Officer of Duck Creek. “With Vista’s global network and deep sector expertise, we will be better positioned to support and accelerate the industry’s transition to the cloud while continuing to deliver a best-in-class customer experience.” 

“Duck Creek is a demonstrated leader in the P&C space, delivering innovative solutions that empower carriers to be faster and more nimble in servicing the digital needs of their customers,” said Monti Saroya, Senior Managing Director and Co-Head of Vista’s Flagship Fund. “We look forward to partnering with Mike and the Duck Creek team as they continue to scale and define the future of P&C insurance technology.”

“We’re excited to welcome Duck Creek to the Vista ecosystem,” said Jeff Wilson, Managing Director at Vista. “Their commitment to excellence and innovation coupled with Vista’s experience in driving sustainable growth will take the business to new heights while delivering solutions that help carriers transform their business.”

Duck Creek has earned the right to partner with and provide its modern technology solutions to an esteemed list of leading carriers across the globe, including Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance, Hollard Insurance, Northbridge Financial Corporation and Tokio Marine.

With the completion of the transaction, Duck Creek Technologies shares have ceased trading and are no longer listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market.

J.P. Morgan acted as financial advisor to Duck Creek, and Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP acted as legal counsel to Duck Creek.

Evercore acted as financial advisor to the Special Committee of the Duck Creek Board of Directors, and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP acted as legal counsel to the Special Committee of the Duck Creek Board of Directors.

RBC Capital Markets acted as financial advisor to Vista, and Kirkland & Ellis LLP acted as legal counsel to Vista.
 
About Duck Creek Technologies

Duck Creek Technologies is the intelligent solutions provider defining the future of the property and casualty (P&C) and general insurance industry. We are the platform upon which modern insurance systems are built, enabling the industry to capitalize on the power of the cloud to run agile, intelligent, and evergreen operations. Authenticity, purpose, and transparency are core to Duck Creek, and we believe insurance should be there for individuals and businesses when, where, and how they need it most. Our market-leading solutions are available on a standalone basis or as a full suite, and all are available via Duck Creek OnDemand. Visit www.duckcreek.com to learn more. Follow Duck Creek on our social channels for the latest information – LinkedIn and Twitter.
 
About Vista Equity Partners

Vista is a leading global investment firm with more than $95 billion in assets under management as of September 30, 2022. The firm exclusively invests in enterprise software, data and technology-enabled organizations across private equity, permanent capital, credit and public equity strategies, bringing an approach that prioritizes creating enduring market value for the benefit of its global ecosystem of investors, companies, customers and employees. Vista's investments are anchored by a sizable long-term capital base, experience in structuring technology-oriented transactions and proven, flexible management techniques that drive sustainable growth. Vista believes the transformative power of technology is the key to an even better future – a healthier planet, a smarter economy, a diverse and inclusive community and a broader path to prosperity. Further information is available at vistaequitypartners.com. Follow Vista on LinkedIn, @Vista Equity Partners, and on Twitter, @Vista_Equity.


Carley Bunch
Duck Creek Technologies
+1 (201) 962-6091
carley.bunch@duckcreek.com 

SOURCE : Duck Creek Technologies

NARITA AIRPORT BOASTS CHERRY BLOSSOM VIEWING - CHIBA PREFECTURAL GOVERNMENT

KUALA LUMPUR, March 28 (Bernama) -- Chiba Prefecture offers various ways to enjoy "hanami" or cherry blossom viewing for tourists visiting Japan during the cherry blossoms season.

Narita International Airport, which is conveniently located in Chiba for overseas visitors to explore the surrounding areas, is one of the unique cherry blossom viewing spots, according to Chiba Prefectural Government in a statement.

Cherry blossoms, known as "sakura" in Japanese, bloom for about one to two weeks from late March to early April in Chiba.

There are three unique sakura spots enabling foreign tourists to embark on cherry blossom adventures namely, Sakura-no-Yama Park, Mobara Park and Kominato Railway.

At Sakura-no-Yama Park, visitors can enjoy close-up views of aeroplanes taking off from and landing at Narita International Airport, best enjoyed lounging under the trees with favourite snacks and drinks.

To explore beyond urban Tokyo on a cherry blossom hunt, Mobara Park is a place to go. The park is dotted with 2,850 cherry trees, which is on Japan's TOP-100 CHERRY BLOSSOM SPOTS list published by the Japan Cherry Blossom Association.

The red-coloured "Benten Bridge" over the pond in the middle of the park, surrounded by pink and white cherry blossoms, offers a great photo opportunity, and visitors can enjoy picnicking and strolling in the park.

Additionally, taking a ride on the Kominato Railway is like a trip through a countryside dream, whereby this local, diesel-powered line connects Ichihara City and Otaki Town and features commanding views along the way.

In spring, "nanohana" (canola) flowers and cherry blossoms are in full view along the railway line. Itabu Station is a popular sightseeing spot for heavily photographed cherry trees and visitors are recommended to start at JR Goi Station for the Kominato Line's first stop for a leisurely journey through Chiba's picturesque spring.

-- BERNAMA

FASTLY INTRODUCES NEW PARTNER PROGRAM TO DELIVER GREATER VALUE FOR CUSTOMERS AND PARTNERS

Fastly’s CRN-rated 5-star program features a new tiered model that includes simplified pricing and packaging, increases profitability and enhances resources to drive growth and success for Fastly’s Global Partner Network

SAN FRANCISCO, March 29 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Fastly, Inc. (NYSE: FSLY), one of the world’s fastest global edge cloud platforms, today announced a new partner program that significantly expands and simplifies the ability to deliver high-value, complete solutions through its Global Partner Network. Fastly’s Global Partner Network was recently awarded a 5-star rating by CRN in its 2023 Partner Program Guide.

“Our partners are critical to Fastly’s growth and success, so we’ve designed a program that makes it easier for them to win more business while ensuring customers get the value and quality they expect,” said Emily Friedberg, Group Vice President of Global Partnerships at Fastly. “More than ever, customers are looking to deliver the fastest online experiences possible, while also improving site performance, enhancing security, and empowering innovation at global scale. That’s why we’ve made it simpler for partners to deliver a complete solution through Fastly’s edge cloud platform.”

The new program extends Fastly’s Global Partner Network by providing greater flexibility, support and incentives to a range of partner types including Value-Added Resellers (VARs), System Integrators (SIs), Managed Service Providers (MSPs and MSSPs), agencies and consultants.

“The 5-star rating in CRN’s 2023 Partner Program Guide is awarded to the companies that go above and beyond in their commitment to nurturing strong, profitable and successful channel partnerships,” said Blaine Raddon, CEO of The Channel Company. “Fastly’s Global Partner Network earned this rating because it’s clear the program is designed to create more opportunities and better business outcomes for their partners.”

At the program’s core is a new tiered model that offers training, marketing support, sales enablement and new, simplified pricing and packaging options to make it easier to sell and service Fastly products. This tiered approach is designed to offer additional benefits, incentives and rewards based on partner investment and engagement.

“Fastly really listened to the channel, delivering a robust program that makes it easy to grow our business by helping our customers be faster, more innovative and secure,” said Joshua Jones, Vice President, Sales at Tevora. “As a Fastly partner for five years, this new program is night and day ahead of where it was and takes our engagement with Fastly to a new level. It is not only a game changer for how we work with Fastly, but it will also allow us to offer a broader range of solutions to existing and new customers.”

Existing Fastly partners are automatically enrolled in the program and can get access to resources and benefits on Fastly’s new partner portal. Prospective partners interested in learning more about the benefits of teaming with Fastly can access program information and connect with a Fastly team member here.

About Fastly

Fastly’s powerful and programmable edge cloud platform helps the world’s top brands deliver the fastest online experiences possible, while improving site performance, enhancing security, and empowering innovation at global scale. With world-class support that achieves 95%+ average annual customer satisfaction ratings, Fastly’s beloved suite of edge compute, delivery, security and observability offerings has been recognized as a leader by industry analysts such as IDC, Forrester and Gartner. Compared to legacy providers, Fastly’s powerful and modern network architecture is one of the fastest on the planet, empowering developers to deliver secure websites and apps at global scale with rapid time-to-market and industry-leading cost savings. Thousands of the world’s most prominent organizations trust Fastly to help them upgrade the internet experience, including Reddit, Pinterest, Stripe, Neiman Marcus, The New York Times, Epic Games, and GitHub. Learn more about Fastly at www.fastly.com and follow us @fastly. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=45772

ZOOM ANNOUNCES THE EXPANSION OF ZOOM IQ, THE SMART COMPANION THAT EMPOWERS COLLABORATION AND UNLOCKS POTENTIAL

Zoom uses OpenAI technologies to bolster a unique federated approach to AI based on flexibility


SAN JOSE, Calif., March 28 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today at Enterprise Connect, Zoom Video Communications, Inc. (NASDAQ: ZM) announced the expansion of Zoom IQ, a smart companion that empowers collaboration and unlocks people’s potential by summarizing chat threads, organizing ideas, drafting content for chats, emails, and whiteboard sessions, creating meeting agendas, and more. The company also announced it will use OpenAI to bolster its unique federated approach to AI based on flexibility.

Zoom’s federated approach to AI leverages its own proprietary AI models, those from leading AI companies– such as OpenAI –and select customers’ own models. With this flexibility to incorporate multiple types of models, Zoom’s goal is to provide the most value for its customers' diverse needs. These models can also be customized to perform better for a customer, based on their vocabulary and requirements.

“Zoom has long built AI solutions into our products to empower customers to be more productive,” said Smita Hashim, chief product officer at Zoom. “We are excited to bring many more capabilities with new large language models. Our unique approach to AI will give customers the flexibility they want and help significantly improve collaboration and customer relations.”

In today’s work environment, workers find it increasingly difficult to balance workday priorities between emails, team chats, meetings, and project management tasks. Teams are also looking for ways to better co-create effectively in real-time. To help solve these challenges, Zoom IQ will have a host of new capabilities scheduled to release soon, including:

• Zoom IQ chat compose: Zoom Team Chat users can soon use the compose feature to help compose messages based on conversational context in addition to changing message tone to customize suggested responses.
   
• Zoom IQ email compose: Harnessing the power of Generative AI, users will get email draft suggestions in response to the conversational context from prior Zoom Meetings, Zoom Phone calls, and email threads. Available initially in Zoom IQ for Sales.
   
• Zoom IQ meeting summary: Generate a summary, capture next steps, and share via Team Chat, Zoom Calendar, and email without recording the conversation, so those who didn’t attend will no longer have to sit through lengthy recordings.

Additionally at Enterprise Connect, Zoom is showcasing the following innovations to make teamwork more meaningful and strengthen customer relationships:

• Zoom Huddles (formerly Zoom Spots) is a new video-enabled virtual coworking space designed to foster ad-hoc discussions and relationship building, to replicate the “working alongside” aspect of an open office and encourage free-form video-first conversations. Zoom Huddles is now available globally for customers to request early access by visiting the product page.
   
• Intelligent Director uses multiple cameras in a Zoom Room to determine the best angle of the individuals in the room to display within the meeting. With high-quality, reliable video and voice, Intelligent Director also provides a best-in-class experience for remote participants. Available in beta soon.
   
• Zoom Scheduler makes it easy to find the perfect time for meetings by sharing the host’s availability so others (even external participants) can conveniently book appointments. Zoom Scheduler reduces the back-and-forth hassle of manual scheduling by placing a meeting on the host’s calendar with a Zoom Meetings link already included, saving both participants time. Zoom Scheduler works seamlessly with Zoom Meetings and Zoom Mail and Calendar, and integrates with Google Calendar and Microsoft 365, so hosts can use their preferred calendar.

Additional Resources:

• Zoom IQ blog
• Enterprise Connect blog

About Zoom
Zoom is an all-in-one intelligent collaboration platform that makes connecting easier, more immersive, and more dynamic for businesses and individuals. Zoom technology puts people at the center, enabling meaningful connections, facilitating modern collaboration, and driving human innovation through solutions like team chat, phone, meetings, omnichannel cloud contact center, smart recordings, whiteboard, and more, in one offering. Founded in 2011, Zoom is publicly traded (NASDAQ:ZM) and headquartered in San Jose, California. Get more info at zoom.com.

Zoom Public Relations
Beth McLaughlin
press@zoom.us

SOURCE : Zoom Video Communications, Inc.

AM BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF CHINA TAIPING INSURANCE (MACAU) COMPANY LIMITED

HONG KONG, March 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- AM Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a” (Excellent) of China Taiping Insurance (Macau) Company Limited (CTIM) (Macau). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

The ratings reflect CTIM’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assesses as very strong, as well as its strong operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.

CTIM’s risk-adjusted capitalisation, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), remained stable and is at the strongest level as of year-end 2021. The company’s capital level remained robust at the similar level in 2022, and its investment strategy remained conservative and stable, with the majority of its investment assets in cash and investment grade bonds. The company’s reinsurance program remained comprehensive with reinsurer panels of good credit quality; notwithstanding, the reinsurance dependency of the company is moderate.

CTIM delivered a five-year average return on equity of 18.7% during 2017 to 2021, based on audited financials. The company continues to be profit generating in 2022, supported by positive underwriting results, and partially offset by unfavorable investment results. The company’s net combined ratio improved to 71% in 2022 from 82% in 2021, while the ratio is expected to normalize as the local economy recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic. On the other hand, the net expense ratio exhibits an increasing trend, attributed to growing management expenses spent on IT systems. The company’s investment results turned negative in 2022 due to market volatility but are expected to continue to support the company’s overall operating performance through stable streams of interest, dividend and rental income in the future.

CTIM maintains a long track record as the leader in Macau’s non-life insurance segment and has a market share of close to 34% in 2022 based on gross premium written. The company’s underwriting portfolio and distribution channel were stable and diversified, while the company continues to develop its online channel and explore cross-selling opportunities in its affiliated life insurance company in Macau, China Taiping Life Insurance (Macau) Company Limited.

CTIM is well-positioned at its current rating level. Negative rating actions could occur if there is a material decline in the company’s risk-adjusted capitalisation or a significant and sustained deteriorating trend in its operating performance. A weakening credit profile of the parent company, China Taiping Insurance Holdings Company Limited, also may have a negative impact on CTIM’s ratings.

Ratings are communicated to rated entities prior to publication. Unless stated otherwise, the ratings were not amended subsequent to that communication.

This press release relates to Credit Ratings that have been published on AM Best’s website. For all rating information relating to the release and pertinent disclosures, including details of the office responsible for issuing each of the individual ratings referenced in this release, please see AM Best’s Recent Rating Activity web page. For additional information regarding the use and limitations of Credit Rating opinions, please view Guide to Best’s Credit Ratings. For information on the proper use of Best’s Credit Ratings, Best’s Performance Assessments, Best’s Preliminary Credit Assessments and AM Best press releases, please view Guide to Proper Use of Best’s Ratings & Assessments.

AM Best is a global credit rating agency, news publisher and data analytics provider specialising in the insurance industry. Headquartered in the United States, the company does business in over 100 countries with regional offices in London, Amsterdam, Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore and Mexico City. For more information, visit www.ambest.com.

Copyright © 2023 by A.M. Best Rating Services, Inc. and/or its affiliates. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=45736

OHMYHOME RINGS NASDAQ CLOSING BELL IN HONOR OF BEING FIRST SINGAPOREAN FIRM LISTED IN US THIS YEAR

SINGAPORE, March 24 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ohmyhome Limited (“Ohmyhome” or the Company) (NASDAQ: OMH), a data-driven property technology company based in Singapore, today announced it participated in the closing bell ceremony at the Nasdaq MarketSite in New York marking the success of their IPO on March 21. 
 

Ohmyhome is the first Singaporean company that has been listed in the US this year, and has made history by becoming the first women-only founded proptech company listed in the US. This achievement not only highlights the Company's exceptional growth and success but also underscores the significant strides made by women in the traditionally male-dominated field of property and technology. Ohmyhome's mission is to make the process of buying, selling, and renting homes simple, efficient and affordable for everyone.

Rhonda Wong, CEO and Co-founder, and Race Wong, COO and Co-founder presided over the ceremony where they were joined by their families, employees, partners, and investors to perform the customary ringing of the closing bell.

“Today marks a very significant milestone for us. Race and I are sisters. As a family of migrants, growing up, we moved homes 20 times. We understand the aspirations and disappointments that come with a home transaction and how that impacts a family, we know that home transactions must be handled with honesty and integrity. And that’s exactly what Ohmyhome stands for,” Rhonda Wong said during her shared speech with Race Wong.

Since its launch in 2016, Ohmyhome has transacted more than 11,600 properties through its platform and helped thousands of families sell or buy their homes with ease, speed, and reliability. Loved by the customers it served, Ohmyhome has also received more than 8,000 genuine reviews across various social media platforms and is the most reviewed and highest rated property transaction platform in Singapore with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars.

With a data-driven and a customer-centric approach, Ohmyhome prioritizes the needs of the customers by allowing homesellers to post their listings for free, and allows sellers to connect with potential buyers directly. Buyers can enjoy a stress-free property search experience by sharing their preferences with Ohmyhome and its proprietary MATCH engine will automatically match the best properties to buyers on their preferred communication channels. Distinct from most other property advertising portals, Ohmyhome goes the extra mile of ensuring its listings in Singapore are authenticated and active to provide property seekers with a great experience in finding their next home. Beyond transactions, Ohmyhome can also help home buyers with trustworthy services for mortgage, legal conveyancing, moving and even renovation of their next home.

Customers who wish to engage in agent services will be served by dedicated Ohmyhome Super Agents who are also ranked top 1% in the number of transactions. On average, Ohmyhome’s Super Agents are able to transact close to 11 times of the industry average per year.

“Ohmyhome’s business is about property transactions. But at the heart of it, Ohmyhome is about families, homes and doing things right,” Race Wong continued. “We will continue to invest into building the future of property technology. Believe in us not just in the past and present, but in the future as we continue to take Ohmyhome to greater heights. Our journey has only just begun.”

A replay of the Closing Bell ceremony can be found at this link:
https://www.nasdaq.com/events/ohmyhome-rings-the-closing-bell

For more information about the Company, please visit ir.ohmyhome.com.

About Ohmyhome

Ohmyhome is a one-stop-shop property technology platform based in Singapore, which provides end-to-end property solutions and services to end customers directly to help them buy, sell, rent, renovate their homes and more with a single application.

Ohmyhome is dedicated to bringing speed, ease, and reliability to the property-related services industry, and to become the most trusted and comprehensive property solution for everyone. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=45738

AM BEST WITHDRAWS NEW ZEALAND’S BRIGHTSIDECO CREDIT RATINGS

KUALA LUMPUR, March 23 (Bernama) -- United States-headquartered AM Best has removed from under review with negative implications and downgraded the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating to “bb” (Fair) from “bb+” (Fair) and affirmed the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of B (Fair) of New Zealand’s Brightsideco Insurance Limited (Brightsideco).

According to the global credit rating agency in a statement, the outlook assigned to these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

Concurrently, AM Best has withdrawn these ratings as the company has requested to no longer participate in the agency’s interactive rating process following exemption by the Reserve Bank of New Zealand from the requirement to have an FSR.

These rating actions are the result of Brightsideco being placed into run-off following the cancellation of its arrangement with the New Zealand operations of Harvey Norman Holdings Limited, a large electrical goods retailer based in Australia, to distribute extended warranty insurance products.

As a result, Brightsideco lacks a competitive position or the ability to alter or re-price its book of business, and in AM Best’s view, has a weaker business profile.

The ratings reflect Brightsideco’s balance sheet strength, which AM Best assessed as adequate, as well as its marginal operating performance, very limited business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.

Brightsideco’s balance sheet strength is underpinned by its risk-adjusted capitalisation, which AM Best expects to remain at the strongest level over the medium term, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio.

As insurance liabilities run off, risk-adjusted capitalisation is expected to improve further; insurance risk is projected to reduce faster than the company’s capital base. Other balance sheet considerations include Brightsideco’s very small absolute capital base, which increases its sensitivity to weaker-than-anticipated performance.

Furthermore, the balance sheet strength assessment factors a negative holding company impact arising from Brightsideco’s ultimate parent, ICF Holdings Pty Ltd, following an assessment of consolidated risk-adjusted capitalisation.

-- BERNAMA

THE LARGEST PRAYER WHEEL IN GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS AMAZED THOUSANDS OF VISITORS IN DALAT, VIETNAM

DALAT, Vietnam, March 21 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Great Prayer Wheel “Drigung Kagyu Rinchen Khorchen Khorwe Go Gek,” located at Samten Hills cultural and spiritual tourist complex in Dalat, Vietnam, was officially inaugurated on March 11th, 2023, certified by the Guinness World Records as the world's largest prayer wheel.

The Great Prayer Wheel is made of pure copper, inlaid with 24K gold, weighing 200 tons, 37.22 meters in height and 16.53 meters in diameter. Its unique design and enormous size make it an architectural wonder that has attracted global visitors. Its intricate details, beautiful colors, and breathtaking view of the surrounding hills and forests create a serene and peaceful atmosphere that inspires reflection and contemplation.

The Guinness World Records recognition strongly promotes the image of the Great Buddhist prayer wheel in the Vajrayana Buddhist spiritual complex at Samten Hills Dalat and the beauty of Lam Dong province to the world. This way, Samten Hills Dalat became a symbol of friendship, peace, and diplomatic culture between Vietnam, India, and many other countries. 

The space of Vajrayana Buddhism in Samten Hills Dalat is a rare, unique construction rich in cultural value. It is made with Nepal painters' ancient art. Each line and pattern is made by the artists' concentration and the union of body and mind, carrying deep and mysterious meanings.

Visitors can admire beautiful paintings of Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Sanghas with sophisticated details that cannot be found anywhere else, such as the intriguing similarity between fine lines created by painters from the Himalayas and those drawn by artists of the Ly Dynasty of Vietnam. The structure also contributes to the local socio-economic development, creates jobs, and increases the residents' income. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=45704

GRADIANT BROADENS SERVICE OFFERINGS IN MIDDLE EAST VIA MPES ACQUISITION

KUALA LUMPUR, March 22 (Bernama) -- Gradiant, a global advanced water and wastewater treatment solutions provider, has acquired Muscat Projects & Engineering Services (MPES), a leading full-service water and wastewater management company in Oman.

According to a statement, this announcement follows Gradiant’s acquisition of Advanced Watertek in February, a major original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for membrane-based water and wastewater treatment systems.

In response to the region’s most severe drought in 900 years, nations and businesses in the Middle East are rapidly implementing water sustainability targets, building out new water and wastewater treatment capacity, and looking to alternative water supplies to meet growing demand, creating unprecedented opportunities in the region’s water and wastewater market.

With the acquisition of MPES, Gradiant expands its full-service capabilities in the region, including deployment of the SmartOps plant performance optimistion and asset management technology through Operations & Maintenance (O&M) services.

“The acquisitions of MPES and Advanced Watertek create an integrated platform for Gradiant to deliver best-in-class offerings into the Middle East.

“We will extend MPES's core expertise and resources in O&M services to Gradiant's existing and new facilities in the region, diversifying our revenue mix to a long-term recurring profile,” said Gradiant Chief Operating Officer, Prakash Govindan.

Meanwhile, MPES Managing Director, E.M. Badhrudeen said: “We look forward to integrating our expertise with Gradiant to expand the impact of our water and wastewater solutions. By joining Gradiant, we will extend our operations know-how into projects across the Middle East region.”

Founded in 2008, MPES delivers turnkey solutions for wastewater and solid waste management and specialises in the O&M of water and wastewater treatment plants. Its key clients include Haya Water, the Ministry of Defense and Petroleum Development Oman.

Through its continually expanding portfolio, Gradiant is bringing together industry-leading water treatment solutions with the power of artificial intelligence to sustainably solve the world’s most important water challenges.

-- BERNAMA

FRAUDULENT ROBOCALLS WILL ROB MOBILE SUBSCRIBERS OF US$58 BLN IN 2023 - JUNIPER RESEARCH

KUALA LUMPUR, March 20 (Bernama) -- Mobile subscribers will lose US$58 billion to fraudulent robocalls globally in 2023, a rise from US$53 billion in 2022, according to a new report from Juniper Research, foremost experts assessing emerging communications technologies. (US$1=RM4.46)

According to Juniper Research in a statement, these losses will be driven by the increase in multifarious scam calls to deceive end users, such as unauthorised call forwarding or caller ID spoofing, with the end goal of financial gain.

Despite the ongoing development of robocalling mitigation frameworks, such as STIR/SHAKEN in North America, the report predicts that fraudsters’ ability to innovate fraud methods will drive these losses to reach US$70 billion globally by 2027.

STIR/SHAKEN includes standards to mitigate fraudulent methods popular in North America, such as caller ID spoofing, which imitates a legitimate enterprise through the use of temporary business numbers.

The report stated that North America continues to be the most impacted region by fraudulent robocalls, as its affluent nature provides larger monetary opportunities for fraudsters and will account for over half of the losses attributable to robocalling in 2023.

However, the report estimates that STIR/SHAKEN has reduced the year-on-year growth of fraudulent losses to robocalling in the region by 85 per cent between 2022 and 2023.

By 2025, fraudulent losses arising from robocalling are anticipated to decline for the first time in North America, owing to the widespread adoption of this framework.

The report urges stakeholders formulating frameworks outside North America to focus on region‑specific methods of fraud, such as unauthorised call forwarding, that will be more efficiently covered through tailored frameworks rather than via a reproduction of STIR/SHAKEN.

-- BERNAMA

DATAXET SHOWCASES DXT360™ PLATFORM AND EVO™ FRAMEWORK AS TOOLS TO EMPOWER BRAND COMMUNICATIONS IN THE ATTENTION ECONOMY

Bangkok, Thailand, Mar. 20/Dataxet-AsiaNet/--
 

Dataxet Limited, a leading media intelligence company, showcased its DXT360™ platform and EVO™ framework as tools to empower brand communications in the attention economy at a seminar held on March 15, 2023 in Bangkok.   The seminar titled "Next Gen Media Intelligence: The New Era of Data-fed, Insight-led Brand Building" featured experts and distinguished speakers who discussed the changing media landscape and its impact on brands and organizations. Assoc. Prof. Dr. Smith Boonchutima, Lecturer at the Department of Public Relations, Faculty of Communication Arts, Chulalongkorn University;  Mr. Robert Kabus, Chief Strategy Officer and Managing Partner at Dataxet Pte Ltd; Ms. Sawita Bekanan, Insight Analyst Manager at Dataxet Limited; and Ms. Nualnissa Ubolpong, Corporate Communications and Public Relations Section Manager at Thai Bridgestone Co., Ltd., shared their views and insights with over 100 attendees from leading companies and government agencies.   Dr. Boonchutima said media intelligence is vital to a successful communication strategy, especially in the age of the "Attention Economy" where brands face strong competition for consumer engagement. Mr. Kabus and Ms. Bekanan went on to share how brands can leverage new tools and strategic frameworks to meet these new marketplace challenges.   Data-fed, Insight-led: transforming big data into valuable insights   Mr. Kabus and Ms. Bekanan underlined the power of the DXT360™ platform, a comprehensive suite of monitoring and analysis tools helping clients better understand their audiences and competitors. Data from across social, online, and mainstream media is delivered in one integrated, user-friendly platform. So, customers from all industries, including finance, healthcare, automotive, and consumer goods, among others, can tailor dashboards to their unique needs and goals.   During the seminar, Dataxet also introduced the EVO™ (Experience-Values-Offer) framework, a proprietary tool that unlocks new insights by distilling data into the three universal drivers of audience perceptions and intentions. This empowers brands to engage audiences strategically while moving at the speed and scale of the Attention Economy.   "Addressing the challenges of the attention economy requires new tools and approaches," said Mr. Kabus, "Our next gen products are designed to empower smarter, faster and more strategic decision-making to help clients engage these elusive audiences more effectively."     About Dataxet Limited   Dataxet Limited (dataxet:infoquest), formerly known as InfoQuest Limited, is a leading media intelligence and news agency in Thailand. It is a part of Dataxet Pte Ltd (Dataxet), the fastest growing media intelligence group in Southeast Asia with its headquarters in Singapore and subsidiaries in Malaysia, Indonesia and Thailand.   dataxet:infoquest offers robust media intelligence platforms with comprehensive coverage of social, online and mainstream media news, content, trends and issues. The EVO™ framework turns platform data into high value audience insights and actionable communication strategies. The synergy between Dataxet's global capabilities and dataxet:infoquest's local expertise provides clients with exceptional service and support that helps them achieve their business goals.   Thailand website: www.dataxet.co   Group website: www.dataxet.com   SOURCE: Dataxet Limited  http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=45690

CHINA GUANGXI'S CROSS-BORDER TRADE QUALITY IMPROVED, UPGRADED

KUALA LUMPUR, March 15 (Bernama) -- Optimisation and adjustment of entry-exit policies this year have allowed the major trade corridor linking China to Southeast Asian (ASEAN) countries and the rest of the world to regain its previous bustling and vibrant atmosphere.

Currently, trucks loaded with goods are crossing China-Vietnam border at the Youyiguan Port in Pingxiang City, Guangxi, according to the Management Committee of China (Guangxi) Pilot Free Trade Zone in a statement.

In recent years, Guangxi has vigorously supported the infrastructure construction of key border ports, including more inspection checkpoints and larger cargo transfer sites. At the Youyiguan Port, it only takes around a minute or even less for trucks to pass through the checkpoint.

The improvement of customs clearance efficiency has genuinely unleashed the potentials of the port, while Guangxi's border financial reform has provided great convenience for cross-border trade.

Financial reform along the border has also benefited the people of both China and Vietnam, and cross-border trade has become more prosperous.

In recent years, financial institutions such as Bank of Guilin have successively carried out cross-border transfer of Chinese renminbi (RMB) and Vietnamese dong (VDN) banknotes, and cross-border finance has gradually expanded from merely a transaction settlement business to multiple fields.

Guangxi's excellent border infrastructure is a guarantee for the rapid recovery of cross-border trade and the border has been veritably enhanced due to the concerted efforts of multiple parties.

Chongzuo District Management Committee of China (Guangxi) Pilot Free Trade Zone, Executive Deputy Director, Wu Xiaohui said: “Pingxiang has 13 cross-border railway trains and 22 cross-border highway logistics lines, capable of reaching more than 20 major hub cities in ASEAN countries, with logistics network covering the Indo-China Peninsula.”

In order to facilitate investment, trade, cross-border capitals and transportation, the People's Government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region recently issued a multi-pronged plan to further promote the deepening of reforms and advance opening-up efforts.

In terms of open development and exploration and innovation, the China (Guangxi) Pilot Free Trade Zone will hasten the exploration of institutional opening-up; and carry out pilot trials and risk stress tests in key areas such as trade in services, financial opening, and digital economy, among others.

-- BERNAMA

MILLIKEN & COMPANY GARNERS 2023 WORLD'S MOST ETHICAL COMPANIES DESIGNATION

SPARTANBURG, S.C., March 14 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- For the seventeenth year in a row, diversified global manufacturer Milliken & Company has been recognized by Ethisphere, a leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices, as one of the 2023 World’s Most Ethical Companies. Milliken is one of 135 honorees spanning 19 countries and 46 industries and one of only six honorees appearing on the World’s Most Ethical Companies list every year since the award was founded in 2007.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: 
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230313005074/en/

 

“At Milliken, we are guided by a commitment to do the right thing,” shared Halsey Cook, president and CEO of Milliken & Company. “We’re honored to be recognized once again, and we’re proud of the strong sense of integrity that drives our global team.”

Doing what is right encourages Milliken to take bold steps across its diverse portfolio. Guided by its five core values—integrity, excellence, innovation, sustainability and people—Milliken works to be a leader in responsible and sustainable manufacturing. Its 2025 Sustainability Goals define the company’s work with its products, its people and the planet. In addition, Milliken recently announced its path toward a net-zero future by 2050 with Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) approved short- and long-term net-zero targets.

“Milliken has been a part of our World Most Ethical Companies honorees for the last 17 years—the only industrial manufacturer to meet the 17-time honoree milestone,” said Ethisphere CEO, Erica Salmon Byrne. “We commend the entire team on their dedication to making real impact for their stakeholders and commitment to exemplary values-based leadership.”

Ethisphere’s 2023 Ethics Index, the collection of publicly traded companies recognized as recipients of this year’s World’s Most Ethical Companies designation, outperformed a comparable index of large-cap companies by 13.6 percentage points over a five-year period.

Methodology & Scoring

Grounded in Ethisphere’s proprietary Ethics Quotient®, the World’s Most Ethical Companies assessment process includes more than 200 questions on culture, environmental and social practices, ethics and compliance activities, governance, diversity, and initiatives that support a strong value chain. The process serves as an operating framework to capture and codify the leading practices of organizations across industries and around the globe.

Honorees

To view the full list of this year’s honorees, visit the World’s Most Ethical Companies website.

About Milliken

Milliken & Company is a global manufacturing leader whose focus on materials science delivers tomorrow’s breakthroughs today. From industry-leading molecules to sustainable innovations, Milliken creates products that enhance people’s lives and deliver solutions for its customers and communities. Drawing on thousands of patents and a portfolio with applications across the textile, specialty chemical, flooring and healthcare businesses, the company harnesses a shared sense of integrity and excellence to positively impact the world for generations. Discover more about Milliken’s curious minds and inspired solutions at milliken.com and on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.

About Ethisphere

Ethisphere is the global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices that fuel corporate character, marketplace trust, and business success. Ethisphere has deep expertise in measuring and defining core ethics standards using data-driven insights that help companies enhance corporate character. Ethisphere honors superior achievement through its World’s Most Ethical Companies® recognition program, provides a community of industry experts with the Business Ethics Leadership Alliance (BELA), and showcases trends and best practices in ethics with Ethisphere Magazine. Ethisphere also helps to advance business performance through data-driven assessments, guidance, and benchmarking against its unparalleled data: the Culture Quotient dataset focused on ethical culture and featuring the responses of 2+ million employees around the world; and the Ethics Quotient dataset, featuring 200+ data points highlighting the ethics, compliance, social, and governance practices of the World’s Most Ethical Companies. For more information, visit https://ethisphere.com. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=45638

AUTOMOBILI LAMBORGHINI'S "THE EPIC ROAD TRIP" NEARS ITS DESTINATION WITH COMMEMORATIVE COLLECTIBLE CELEBRATING THE BRAND'S 60TH ANNIVERSARY

After 7 months of exclusive NFT drops, existing customers will receive a custom collectible to celebrate the iconic supercar manufacturer’s diamond jubilee.

Sant’Agata Bolognese, March 10 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Automobili Lamborghini has nearly reached the end of “The Epic Road Trip", an 8-month journey that culminates in a momentous milestone: the legendary brand’s 60th anniversary.

Developed in partnership with INVNT.ATOM™  and Web3 Pro, The Epic Road Trip invites owners and enthusiasts to collect the ultimate set of digital memorabilia to unlock utilities and experiences – including the opportunity to be one of the first to preview the latest Lamborghini model before it’s released to the public.

Collectors of “The Epic Road Trip” will also be rewarded with a variety of utilities and experiences, depending on their level of ownership:

• Access to Collectors-only Discord community/channel
• Exclusive mobile and desktop wallpapers
• Centro Stile sketch from Mitja Borkert, Head of Design
• GLB file for Lamborghini consumers to experience in the metaverse
• An intimate VIP tour of the Lamborghini Sant’Agata headquarters
• Exclusive first look at the latest Lamborghini model

As the 60th anniversary approaches, Lamborghini will leverage this opportunity to bring together in celebration both Lamborghini customers and “The Epic Road Trip” asset holders. “Lamborghini’s commitment to innovation extends beyond our super sports cars and into all aspects of our business – specially as we reach younger generations,” says Christian Mastro Marketing Director of Automobili Lamborghini. “The Epic Road Trip is the latest example of our unconventional approach which has powered us for six decades. As we celebrate 60 years of forward looking attitude, we want to reward customers and fans of the past, present, and future for their loyalty — giving them the chance to get further involvement and connection with the Brand.”

Lamborghini will commemorate the milestone with a 60th-anniversary digital collectible. Those visiting Lamborghini dealerships or attending IRL anniversary celebrations can scan a QR code to claim. At the same time, the commemorative collectible will be airdropped to “The Epic Road Trip” collectors who have purchased 2 or more NFTs across Drops 1 through 8.

In addition, all holders of the commemorative NFT will receive token-gated access to an exclusive, AMA-style session with senior Lamborghini executives discussing Lamborghini's past, present, and future.

The final drop of “The Epic Road Trip” begins March 20th - 23rd, with the last opportunity for collectors to reach the finish line at Lamborghini NFT Marketplace.

While “The Epic Road Trip” will be concluding soon, this is only the beginning of Lamborghini’s Web3 journey as they continue to develop innovative engagement platforms that deepen their relationship with customers and fans which capture the essence of what it means to be a member of the Lamborghini community.

Photos and videos: media.lamborghini.com
Hype Reel of the campaign to date

Media kit (hi-res photos and bios)

Information on Automobili Lamborghini: lamborghini.com 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=45620

AJC TO HOST THE "GOLDEN BRIDGE SHORT VIDEO CAMPAIGN" COMMEMORATING THE 50TH YEAR OF ASEAN-JAPAN FRIENDSHIP AND COOPERATION: A GRAND PRIZE WINNER WILL BE INVITED TO TOKYO OR ONE OF THE ASEAN COUNTRIES

Entry Period: Mar 10 – Jun 10, 2023 (JST)

TOKYO, March 10 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The ASEAN-Japan Centre (AJC) has launched the "Golden Bridge Short Video Campaign" on Instagram targeting the people of ASEAN Member States and Japan today. Those who wish to join the campaign will create a short video (15-30 sec) and post it on Instagram with #GoldenBridge and #ASEANJapan50 and other required information. Entries made from Friday, March 10 until Saturday, June 10, 2023 (JST) will be accepted. To encourage many creators interested in the future of ASEAN-Japan relations, exchanges of people, tourism etc. within ASEAN Member States and Japan to join the campaign, prizes for the Grand Prize include an invitation to Tokyo or an ASEAN country (country and city, and details to be announced in due course).

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: 
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20230308005941/en/

 

The campaign aims to inspire the people of the ASEAN Member States and Japan (11 countries in total) to feel each other's culture and spirituality through the videos, and to inspire and unite the people who will build the future of ASEAN and Japan and point the way to sustainable social development and the future. We hope that the videos will express the new mindsets and visions of the future that are important for ASEAN countries and Japan.

One to four winning entries from each country will be selected by the campaign secretariat and a panel of judges. The jury will consist of H.E. Masahiko KIYA, Ambassador of the Mission of Japan to ASEAN, and H.E. Haji Shahbudin Haji Musa, Ambassador of Brunei Darussalam to Japan (Chairperson of the ASEAN Tokyo Committee, January-June 2023). All winning entries will be screened at the AJC's pavilion at the WDO World Design Assembly Tokyo 2023 to be held in Tokyo in October 2023, and the names of the winners will be published in "The ASEAN" magazine periodically published by the ASEAN Secretariat. In addition, the AJC will edit the winning entries and produce a short video "Open the Golden Future" to commemorate the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation. The video will be played at events organized by the AJC as an image movie that inspires the vision of the future ASEAN-Japan relations.

Entries will be accepted via Instagram. Entrants enter by creating a video based on one of the two designated themes (“Golden Moment, Beautiful Spirits” or “Golden Connection, Heart-to-heart”) and posting it on Instagram with the hashtags #GoldenBridge and #ASEANJapan50, as well as other required information. Entries can also be made using Instagram Reels. For details, please refer to the entry guidelines on the campaign announcement page on the website for the 50^th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation.

The website for the 50th Year of ASEAN-Japan Friendship and Cooperation
https://aseanjapan50.jp/

About “Golden Bridge Short Video Campaign”
https://aseanjapan50.jp/information/goldenbridgecampaign_video/ 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=45624

PRESTIGE BIOPHARMA DEVELOPS FIRST-IN-CLASS DIAGNOSTIC KIT FOR PANCREATIC CANCER

KUALA LUMPUR, March 10 (Bernama) -- Prestige Biopharma Limited, a Singapore-based biopharmaceutical company, has developed a first-in-class diagnostic kit for pancreatic cancer.

According to Prestige Biopharma in a statement, pancreatic cancer is a characteristically aggressive tumour, with an extremely poor prognosis, as shown by a one-year survival rate of 10 to 23 per cent, and an estimated five-year survival rate of less than nine per cent.

The low survival rates associated with pancreatic cancer are attributed to late diagnosis coupled with non-specific symptoms, early metastasis, rapid progression and the lack of effective treatment modalities.

Thus, early detection and diagnosis are crucial for improving patient outcomes and increasing survival rates.

Prestige Biopharma is developing a diagnostic kit for the detection of Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma Upregulated Factor (PAUF), a distinctive tumour-specific biomarker overexpressed in approximately 80 per cent of pancreatic cancer cases, correlated with early progression and metastasis.

“The early detection of pancreatic cancer is just as crucial as effective treatment, given its reputation as a silent killer. As part of our efforts to combat this devastating disease, we are expanding into diagnostics using our innovative PAUF-based technology.

“Through the successful development of the diagnostic kit on top of a novel antibody, we believe our efforts will significantly benefit patients with pancreatic cancer and contribute to improving human health, which is exactly what our mission ‘Innovation for Life’ stands for,” said its chief executive officer, Dr Lisa S. Park.

The company has submitted a provisional patent application for the diagnostic method in South Korea and started partnership discussions with major diagnostic companies to co-develop and market the diagnostic kit to target the global market. 

In addition, Prestige Biologics, the Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization affiliate of the company, is in preparation to manufacture antibody diagnostic kits for clinical and commercial use.

-- BERNAMA

SIMPLY SUPER! ILLUMINATION, NINTENDO UNVEIL THE SUPER MARIO BROS. MOVIE FINAL TRAILER

KUALA LUMPUR, March 10 (Bernama) -- Illumination and Nintendo Co Ltd (Nintendo) announced the final trailer for The Super Mario Bros. Movie, the new animated film based on the world of Super Mario Bros. during the Nintendo Direct which was streamed recently.

In a statement, the two companies also announced the Japanese voice actor for Donkey Kong. The film will be co-financed by Universal Pictures and Nintendo, and released worldwide by Universal Pictures.

The Super Mario Bros. Movie, is the Super Mario Bros. animated film, produced by Chris Meledandri of Illumination and Shigeru Miyamoto of Nintendo.

It was directed by Aaron Horvath and Michael Jelenic (collaborators on Teen Titans Go!, Teen Titans Go! To the Movies) from a screenplay by Matthew Fogel (Illumination’s Minions: The Rise of Gru).

The film stars Chris Pratt as Mario; Anya Taylor-Joy as Princess Peach; Charlie Day as Luigi; Jack Black as Bowser; Keegan-Michael Key as Toad; Seth Rogen as Donkey Kong; Fred Armisen as Cranky Kong; Kevin Michael Richardson as Kamek; and Sebastian Maniscalco as Spike.

Illumination is one of the entertainment industry’s leading producers of event-animated films, and its soon-to-be released The Super Mario Bros. Movie will join a studio library that includes two of the top 10 animated films of all time.

Meanwhile, headquartered in Kyoto, Japan, Nintendo has created franchises that have become household names worldwide including Mario™, Donkey Kong™, The Legend of Zelda™, Metroid™ and Pokémon™.

-- BERNAMA

SLEEPLESS IN FUZHOU: CITY DAZZLES GLOWING AT NIGHT WITH NEW VITALITY, COLOURS, FASHIONS

KUALA LUMPUR, March 9 (Bernama) -- The thousand-year-old city of Fuzhou is still bustling with huge crowds of people even when dusk falls, glowing with new vitality, new colours and new fashions.

According to the Publicity Department of the CPC Fuzhou Municipal Committee in a statement, the promotional video of Fuzhou of Fujian Province, titled "Discover Fuzhou -- Nighttime Economy", was released recently.

It was released through overseas social media accounts including "Paris Oriental Center", "Discover Fujian" and "Discover Fuzhou".

In the dynamic and cheerful melody, the sleepless city of Fuzhou is swathed in brilliant and colourful lights and once again attracts world attention.

In the video, the new landmark projects of Fuzhou, the key sections of the "Two Rivers and Four Riverbanks" landscape belt -- The Heart of Min River, Three Lanes and Seven Alleys Historical and Cultural District, and other scenic spots look radiant and gorgeous during the night. 

In addition, cultural offerings abound in these areas such as night markets, concerts, theatrical performances and street performances.

A range of supportive policies and measures was rolled out to encourage innovative growth of Fuzhou City’s nighttime economy and created post-dusk economic blocks by integrating cultural tourism experience and building commercial facilities.

-- BERNAMA

WINNERS ANNOUNCED IN 17TH ANNUAL STEVIE® AWARDS FOR SALES & CUSTOMER SERVICE

World’s Top Customer Service and Sales Awards Were Presented in Las Vegas

FAIRFAX, Va., March 7 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Winners in the 17th annual Stevie® Awards for Sales & Customer Service, recognized as the world's top customer service awards and sales awards, were unveiled on Friday night at a gala ceremony in Las Vegas, Nevada USA, attended by more than 400 executives from around the world.
 

The complete list of Stevie Winners by category is available at http://www.StevieAwards.com/Sales.

DP DHL, with 46 Gold, Silver, and Bronze Stevie Award wins, was the most honored organization this year, earning the top Grand Stevie Award trophy. This is the 11th year in a row in which the multinational package delivery and supply chain management company, headquartered in Bonn, Germany, has won a Grand Stevie in the program, and the ninth year of the 11 in which they placed first on the list of most honored organizations.

Other Grand Stevie Award winners, in descending order, include IBM, Sales Partnerships, Support Services Group, ValueSelling Associates, UPMC Health Plan, PowerSchool Group, GoHealth, TalkDesk and Michael Kors.
 

More than 2,300 nominations from organizations of all sizes and in virtually every industry were evaluated in this year’s competition. Finalists were determined by the average scores of more than 170 professionals worldwide in seven specialized judging committees. Entries were considered in more than 60 categories for customer service and contact center achievements, including Contact Center of the Year, Award for Innovation in Customer Service, and Customer Service Department of the Year; 60 categories for sales and business development achievements, ranging from Senior Sales Executive of the Year to Sales Training or Business Development Executive of the Year to Sales Department of the Year; and categories to recognize new products and services and solution providers, among others.  

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=45581

APO TO WORK WITH MPC TO ENHANCE PRODUCTIVITY

^{From left to right: Dr. Nor Aishah Hassan, Dato’ Abdul Latif Haji Abu Seman, YB Liew Chin Tong, Dr. Indra Pradana Singawinata, Md. Zainuri Juri.}


KUALA LUMPUR, March 3 (Bernama) -- The Asian Productivity Organization (APO) Secretary-General, Dr. Indra Pradana Singawinata, had a courtesy call on Deputy Minister of International Trade and Industry (MITI), YB Liew Chin Tong. The courtesy call is to enhance further the existing partnership between Malaysia and APO as well as to discuss on current challenges and potential collaboration to enhance productivity of the nation.
 
Director General of MPC, Dato’ Abdul Latif bin Haji Abu Seman said, since joining the APO fraternity in 1983, with MPC as the country’s National Productivity Organisation (NPO), Malaysia plays an active and significant role among the 21 member economies in enhancing productivity of the region. Malaysia has been exporting expertise in the areas of capacity development of productivity specialists, public sector productivity framework as well as imparting technical advisory in the development of accreditation programmes.
 
“The country needs to achieve a productivity growth of more than 3.6% throughout the RMK12 period, towards realising the productivity level of RM106,060 by 2025. With this in mind, we are seeking APO’s assistance to accelerate digital adoption among service sectors such as Retail and Food & Beverages and Tourism and to reduce skill mismatch, improve employee retention through better compensation of employees and provide insights on re-skilling and up-skilling initiatives”, added Dato’ Abdul Latif.
 
In the spirit of collaboration, MPC is committed to facilitating APO member economies in providing technical expertise in Good Regulatory Practice (GRP), among them are Regulatory Experimentation (RE), Regulatory Impact Assessment (RIA), MyMudah (reducing unnecessary regulatory burden) and Behavioural Insights (BI). Dato’ Abdul Latif highlighted Malaysia’s success in implementing RE in the construction and agro-food sectors which bodes well with the government’s effort to address effectively concerns regarding bureaucracy in construction permits, food security issue as well as high cost of living.
 

About Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC)

MPC is a statutory body under the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI). It drives national productivity holistically at the national, sectoral, and enterprise levels through five main thrusts: developing future talent, driving digitization and innovation, ensuring industry accountability for productivity, building a robust ecosystem, and fostering productive mindset. It collaborates strategically with the private and public sectors by emphasising productivity as a key agenda to boost productivity growth and national competitiveness, ultimately leading to shared well-being and prosperity.


SOURCE : Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC)