DACTA, HEIMDAL TEAM UP TO EXPAND APAC'S ADVANCED CYBERSECURITY SOLUTIONS

KUALA LUMPUR, April 30 (Bernama) -- A cybersecurity solutions provider, DACTA and Heimdal have forged a strategic partnership, aimed at bringing Heimdal's advanced cybersecurity solutions to the Asia Pacific (APAC) region.

According to a statement, this collaboration represents a key initiative in DACTA's plans to expand its presence and offerings in APAC, while exploring potential business expansion opportunities for both companies.

“Our collaboration with Heimdal marks a strategic step towards enhancing cybersecurity resilience in the APAC region.

“We are excited to bring Heimdal's world-class solutions to our markets and look forward to exploring further avenues for innovation and growth together,” said DACTA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Benjamin Xie.

Meanwhile, Heimdal CEO, Morten Kjaersgaard said this partnership represents an important opportunity for the company to expand its global footprint and is confident that DACTA's expertise in the APAC market will be instrumental in bringing its advanced cybersecurity solutions to a wider audience.

This alliance will leverage DACTA's established network and market insights in the APAC region to introduce Heimdal's state-of-the-art cybersecurity solutions, with the primary goal to address the growing demand for robust digital protection in one of the fastest-growing markets for cybersecurity services.

By bringing Heimdal's solutions to APAC, DACTA aims to offer a new level of security effectiveness and operational efficiency to businesses and government agencies in the region, which aligns with the rising need for advanced cybersecurity measures in the face of evolving digital threats.

The partnership extends beyond the immediate distribution of solutions with both companies committed to exploring further business expansion opportunities, potentially leading to the development of new market strategies and collaborations in cybersecurity innovation.

Furthermore, this strategic alliance is set to make a significant impact in the APAC cybersecurity landscape, demonstrating both DACTA's and Heimdal's commitment to providing top-tier digital protection and exploring new frontiers in cybersecurity.

-- BERNAMA

SENTORIA SECURES HUGE SHAREHOLDERS' CONFIDENCE - REDEEMABLE CONVERTIBLE BONDS (RCB) APPROVED IN EGM

^{Datuk Dr. Ras Adiba binti Mohd Radzi Chairman, Sentoria Group Berhad and Dato' Loh Yuen Tuck, CEO of the Group after Sentoria's extraordinary general meeting which gave solid support to RCB's proposal.​}



KUALA LUMPUR, April 30 (Bernama) -- Sentoria Group Berhad ("Sentoria") achieved a significant milestone last Thursday with the successful convening of its Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM), a crucial step forward in the company’s pursuit of financial revitalisation. The virtual EGM gathering witnessed strong participation from Sentoria's esteemed shareholders including the State Investment Agencies of Pahang, demonstrating their steadfast commitment to the company's future strategic direction.
 
Led by Sentoria’s Chairman, Datuk Ras Adiba Radzi, and attended by all board members, the EGM focused on securing shareholders’ mandate for Sentoria’s Redeemable Convertible Bond (RCB) issuance to be undertaken together with a Shares Consolidation exercise. The overwhelming support received almost 99.9% support of eligible registered shareholders, including full backing from the Pahang State Investment arm, who is the second largest shareholder, represented a resounding vote of confidence in Sentoria's rejuvenation efforts.
 
Following Bursa Malaysia's conditional approval last month, contingent on shareholders’ endorsement, today’s successful resolution propels Sentoria forward to initiate its first issuance of the three-tranche structured RCB, in compliance with regulatory standards.
 
Dato’ Loh Yuen Tuck, the Group’s CEO, expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the muchawaited approval of the RCB proposal. “We are amidst a massive and significant corporate turnaround. The RCB plays a critical role in reviving SGB cash-flows, honour its commitment to banks, expedite the completion of housing projects in Morib Bay, Selangor and rejuvenation of its theme parks through strategic partnerships. The RCB approval enables Sentoria to honour its commitment to buyers of Sentoria homes, deal with legacy issues arising from outstanding loans from banks, finance new projects in Morib, revive its theme-park operations in Gambang Pahang and Samariang Sarawak, thus enhancing property values, delivering sustainable returns to shareholders and fair return to banks supporting SGB,” remarked Dato’ Loh.
 
The RCB issuance, complemented by a share consolidation exercise of four to one, underscores Sentoria’s commitment to financial flexibility and disciplined management. The RCB is a convertible bond issued by Sentoria to raise funds from the (capital) market which has already been fully subscribed. Upon this share consolidation exercise, the RCB is  issued to an identified Subscriber of RCB, namely Triton Capital VCC Singapore, which the principal advisers have structured that the RCB is convertible to a maximum new ordinary share of 306, 690, 544. These new converted SGB shares are in addition to the Sentoria’s consolidated shares of 155, 744, 497 (including treasury shares). The infusion of RM 150 million funds will support development initiatives, improve cash flows, reduce bank borrowings and bolster working capital, all vital components of Sentoria's strategic turnaround.
 
Datuk Ras Adiba Radzi, Chairman of Sentoria's Board of Directors, reaffirmed the new Management Team's commitment to integrity and transparency in utilising RCB funds, underscoring Sentoria's dedication to realising its full potential and creating value for stakeholders. “Sentoria remains steadfast in honouring the trust placed in us by our esteemed shareholders and bankers. Our new leadership and team are fully dedicated to implementing RCB to the best of our ability as we endeavour to build a better tomorrow,” affirmed Datuk Ras Adiba. 
 
The new team extends their gratitude for the continued support from shareholders, partners, suppliers, bankers, and stakeholders, emphasising the pivotal role of ongoing collaboration in achieving Sentoria's turnaround goals.          
 
About Sentoria Group Berhad
 
Sentoria Group Berhad is a leading property development and investment company based in Malaysia, dedicated to delivering affordable, innovative and sustainable solutions. The company’s journey began in 2000, where they transformed from a contractor into a pioneer in providing quality, affordable housing solutions. With a focus on creating vibrant communities and enriching lives, Sentoria remains committed to driving long-term value for all stakeholders. Visit www.sentoria.com.my for more information.
 
Build a Better Tomorrow 


SOURCE : Sentoria Group Berhad

ALTY ORTHOPAEDIC HOSPITAL INKS PARTNERSHIP WITH ORION TOWER TO EXTEND ORTHOPAEDIC CARE TO RESIDENTS

 

^{Mr Anwar Anis, Executive Director of ALTY Orthopaedic Hospital and Mr Thomas Ling, Executive Director Of Orion Tower Sdn Bhd sign the MoU to commence the partnership.}


KUALA LUMPUR, April 30 (Bernama) -- ALTY Orthopaedic Hospital (ALTY), one of Malaysia’s first single-specialty comprehensive orthopedic hospitals, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with luxury property developer, Orion Tower Sdn Bhd to offer exclusive orthopaedic healthcare services to its residents at the Orion Residence KL. 
 
Through the partnership, ALTY will be offering a range of exclusive services consisting of bone health screening and general health screening, along with various value-added services for Orion Residence such as shuttle services, interpreter services, medical-related VISA extension services, and telehealth consultations.
 
Starting 1^st May 2024, residents of the upcoming Orion Residence will get to these services starting March 2025 at the hospital, located less than 10 minutes away from the residences.
 
Located in Bukit Bintang, Orion Residence KL is the latest ultra luxury development launched by property developer Orion Tower Sdn Bhd, with the 46-floor residency conveniently situated between Jalan Gading and Jalan Palmer.
 
“This partnership marks a new milestone not only for both parties but also the enhancement of orthopaedic care for individuals in Malaysia. ALTY is committed to providing the best orthopaedic care in Malaysia and the region, and through partnerships such as these, we continue to impact more lives,” said Anwar Anis, Executive Director, ALTY Orthopaedic Hospital.
 
“At Orion Tower, we want to provide our residents with ample support towards preemptive healthcare. Many people also neglect bone health as they have the belief that bones, being one of the hardest components in our body, will always be strong forever. That is a wrong perception. Bones do deteriorate over time as do our body muscles, organs and cells. 
 
That is why we collaborate with ALTY to provide VIP health screening packages which also includes bone health screening to our residents.  Afterall, what’s wealth without health? Nobody will want to travel the world in a wheelchair,” said Mr Thomas Ling, Executive Director of Orion Tower Sdn Bhd.

This collaboration will be fully utilised starting early May 2024. Currently, almost 90 out of 298 units at Orion Residence have been sold, with the majority of buyers coming from China, Taiwan, Indonesia, and Hong Kong.
 
The partnership between Orion Tower and ALTY Orthopaedic Hospital is part of a rising trend of property developers and healthcare providers collaborating to provide value-added features and services to residents with a priority on their health.
 
ALTY Orthopaedic Hospital, launched in July 2022, offers comprehensive orthopaedic services through its joint and spine clinics, in-house physiotherapy services, podiatry, general and bone health screenings as well as state-of-the-art imaging services.
 
 
About ALTY Orthopaedic Hospital
ALTY (‘Adding Life to Years’) Orthopaedic Hospital, formerly known as HSC Medical Center is your one-stop specialist centre providing you and your loved ones comprehensive modern care on all orthopaedic and musculoskeletal conditions.
 
As a holistic, premier orthopaedic hospital, we specialise in surgical and non-surgical treatments, offering cutting edge solutions through our Spine and Joint Clinics. With contemporary facilities and state-of-the-art equipment, patient well-being and recovery is at the heart of what we do. 
 
Our dedicated team of renowned orthopaedic specialists with decades of experience in practice as well as other highly trained healthcare professionals including physicians, nurses and other support staff aim to provide an exceptional standard of personal and professional care to patients.
 
#ALTYortho #feelitinyourbones #AddingLifeToYears
 
For more information, visit https://www.altyortho.com/
 
 
About Orion Tower
 
At Orion Tower, our passion is not just about delivering developments, it is about transforming the waypeople live. Our goal is to set a new benchmark for a community where comfort, technology and sustainability live in harmony. We understand that our customers’ needs are constantly evolving, and we are dedicated to delivering developments that are responsive to these rapid-changing needs.
 
We are not just a builder real estate developer ; we are committed to creating true value for our customers and contributing to the growth of our society. By pushing the boundaries of traditional developments and integrating modern designs and technology, we aim to set a new standard for future living. 


SOURCE : ALTY Orthopaedic Hospital

LESS THAN HALF OF VETERINARY PROFESSIONALS FEEL THEIR PROFESSION IS APPRECIATED

• World Veterinary Day 2024 celebrates the essential work of veterinarians, yet new data show only 49% of veterinary professionals believe their profession is appreciated.
• Veterinary associations and Boehringer Ingelheim unite to help address this issue—starting with showcasing often-unseen aspects of the veterinary profession.

Ingelheim, Germany, April 26 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --  The World Veterinary Association’s theme for World Veterinary Day this year (April 27, 2024) highlights that veterinarians are essential health workers. Without veterinarians, food safety cannot be guaranteed, animals suffer needlessly, and humans face a higher risk of exposure to dangerous infectious diseases. Yet access to veterinary care should not be taken for granted as many veterinarians are currently considering leaving their chosen career, most often due to reasons associated with work-life balance and their mental health.¹

Today Boehringer Ingelheim released findings from a survey of 1056 companion animal, livestock, and equine veterinarians in the United States, Japan, United Kingdom, France, Brazil, and Germany, to explore if veterinarians feel valued and understood by animal owners. A main finding of the study is that only 49% of veterinarians feel that the veterinary profession in general is appreciated.

“Understanding the reasons why veterinarians feel their profession is underappreciated, raising awareness of often-unseen and complex aspects of veterinary work, and most importantly, showing veterinary professionals that we recognize their essential work, is an important first step,” remarks Fabio Paganini, Member of the Global Animal Health Executive Committee at Boehringer Ingelheim. “As a veterinarian myself, I know that there is so much to love about this job. Together, we can showcase the relentless dedication, the genuine compassion, and the scientific know-how it takes to work as a veterinarian. It truly is a vocation to aspire to.”

Perceived levels of appreciation for the veterinary profession were relatively consistent across key types of veterinary teams — with only 48% of pet-focused (cats and dogs), 55% of livestock and 42% of equine veterinary professionals reporting that their profession was appreciated. This is despite 75% of survey respondents reporting feeling personally appreciated by their client base.

“We should not stand quietly as our colleagues leave the ring due to stress and burnout,” remarked Dr Ellen Van Nierop, President at World Small Animal Veterinary Association. “Veterinarians are exceptional professionals, who play an essential role in directly maintaining and improving the health and well-being of animals and indirectly, of the whole society. It is imperative that we shine a light on the often-unseen care and effort veterinarians put into forging a healthy and happy society.”

Digging deeper: what underpins appreciation levels?
Veterinary professionals believe their personal clients appreciate their “level of expertise” (reported by 66% of veterinarians surveyed), the “ability to deal with ethical dilemmas (including euthanasia)” (61% of veterinarians) and the fact “they provide a large variety of care” (57% of veterinarians). However, the survey also revealed that clients don’t always have full awareness of how far veterinarians push themselves to provide care. Of all participants, 49% felt they were underappreciated by clients when it came to understanding the “resilience to stress and emotional exhaustion” required from the job, with 48% reporting an underappreciation of the fact they “work despite feeling physically exhausted” and the way they “trade-off their work-life-balance to help animals”.

What needs to be done?
All survey respondents were asked to state a key aspect of their profession that they wish people knew more about. The most common responses from pet-focused participants were “our compassion and dedication to animal welfare i.e. not money” and “our commitment to being a veterinarian and the difficulties of the role”. Similarly, the most common response from both livestock and equine veterinary professionals was the “importance, competence and value of the profession”.

Boehringer Ingelheim, together with the Word Small Animal Vet Association (WSAVA) and the World Association for Buiatrics, plus other leading organizations, are united to help veterinarians — starting with showcasing veterinary professionals’ compassion and dedication to animal welfare, while shedding light on the often-unseen complex and difficult aspects of care.  

“By celebrating the essential behind-the-scenes work veterinarians do, we can help them feel seen and appreciated so that they hopefully retain their passion for animal care for as long as possible,” shared Prof. Arcangelo Gentile, President of the World Association for Buiatrics. “World Veterinary Day 2024 (April 27) serves as the perfect opportunity to raise awareness of what really happens behind the clinic, farm and stable doors.” Countless young people are dreaming of becoming a veterinarian. We want them to understand the beautiful, complex, raw, fascinating, and touching reality behind the dream. And we want them to know how rich a life lived as a veterinarian can be.

Going Beyond 2024 survey (implemented by Kynetec, on behalf of Boehringer Ingelheim)
“We're proud to have partnered with Boehringer Ingelheim on this project. Working together, we were able to provide significant insight that we believe will lead to increased understanding of the care that veterinarians provide and make their essential professional engagement widely recognized in the public,” commented Dr. Jan Bahlmann, Kynetec's Head of Animal Health Customer Insights (Europe).

Top-line survey design
The survey was conducted from mid to end of March 2024 across 1056 veterinarians in Brazil (212), Japan (201), United Kingdom (170), France (162), United States (160) and Germany (151). The survey scope included companion animal (57%), equine (5%), dairy (10%), beef (8%), swine (6%) and poultry (3%) specialist veterinarians as well as mixed practices without a main focus (11%). Computer-assisted web as well as telephone interviews in local language were used to collect the data.

Going Beyond campaign
Going Beyond is a campaign developed by Boehringer Ingelheim with support from industry partners and veterinary associations to raise awareness of, and celebrate, the essential behind-the-scenes care that veterinarians provide for animals and communities worldwide. This care, which often goes unseen by animal owners, can leave veterinarians feeling underappreciated, contributing to poor mental health. Launching around World Veterinary Day 2024, Going Beyond aims to tackle this issue head-on by showcasing the boundless dedication, resilience and passion of veterinarians who care for animals in often challenging circumstances. The ultimate goal is to help veterinarians feel seen, appreciated and motivated to continue doing what they do best – caring for our beloved animals.

Kynetec
Kynetec is a global provider of data, analytics and insights in agriculture, animal health and nutrition. We empower agribusinesses and animal health and nutrition companies to make data-driven decisions, from strategy to execution, through predictive analytics and advanced insights. What sets us apart is our direct access to the markets we serve - farmers, veterinarians, pet owners, and agricultural experts - and our deep understanding of the complex dynamics that shape those markets. We regularly undertake data and analytics projects in all the major agricultural and animal health/nutrition markets, spanning more than 80 countries, to provide the insights that enable our clients to build winning strategies and brands. Kynetec’s responsibilities in this campaign work included empirical research co-design, survey execution and analytics.

Boehringer Ingelheim - Animal Health business
Boehringer Ingelheim provides innovation for preventing and treating diseases in animals. The company offers a wide range of vaccines, parasite-control products, and medicines for pets, horses, and livestock to veterinarians, animal owners, farmers, and governments. As a leader in animal health, Boehringer Ingelheim values that the health of humans and animals is deeply connected and strives to make a difference for people, animals, and society. Learn more at www.boehringer-ingelheim.com/animal-health.

Boehringer Ingelheim
Boehringer Ingelheim is a biopharmaceutical company active in both human and animal health. As one of the industry’s top investors in research and development, the company focuses on developing innovative therapies that can improve and extend lives in areas of high unmet medical need. Independent since its foundation in 1885, Boehringer takes a long-term perspective, embedding sustainability along the entire value chain. More than 53,500 employees serve over 130 markets to build a healthier, more sustainable, and equitable tomorrow. Learn more at www.boehringer-ingelheim.com. 

Intended Audiences Notice
This press release is issued from our Corporate Headquarters in Ingelheim, Germany, and is intended to provide information about our global business. Please be aware that information relating to the approval status and labels of approved products may vary from country to country, and a country-specific press release on this topic may have been issued in the countries where we do business.  

¹ Nolen RS., AVMA. Practice Inefficiencies Compound Veterinary Stress. (2021). Available at: https://www.avma.org/javma-news/2021-12-01/practice-inefficiencies-compound-veterinary-stress Last accessed April 2024.

Attachments

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• Swine image
• Equine veterinarian image
• Livestock veterinarian image
• Pet veterinarian image 

SOURCE : Boehringer Ingelheim

EMGA SECURES US$15 MLN FINANCING FOR BANCO IMPROSA TO SUPPORT SMES IN COSTA RICA

KUALA LUMPUR, April 23 (Bernama) -- Emerging Markets Global Advisory LLP (EMGA), in partnership with Banco Improsa, announced it has secured a US$15 million line of credit from the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). (US$1=RM4.77)

“In spite of a challenging global macroeconomic environment, we are pleased to once again facilitate Banco Improsa’s continued vision to supporting SMEs in Costa Rica and complete this financing solution,” said EMGA Managing Director and Head of Investment Banking, Sajeev Chakkalakal in a statement.

Concurrently, EMGA Managing Director, Jeremy Dobson added that Banco Improsa's strong management and healthy financial position were key factors in helping the EMGA Investment Banking team secure this funding, and this JICA facility will further strengthen Banco Improsa’s ability to grow its core SME lending book.

Meanwhile, Banco Improsa General Manager, Felix Alpizar Lobo said the financing reaffirmed the company’s commitment to strengthening the SME segment in Costa Rica.

“Banco Improsa is proud to share JICA's objective of contributing to the economic and social growth of developing countries,” he added.

Banco Improsa is a commercial bank with more than 37 years of experience, whose relational business model and focus on niche markets specialises in providing financing solutions and services to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), among others.

On the other hand, JICA is a governmental agency that provides most of the Official Development Assistance for the Government of Japan. It is chartered with assisting the economic and social growth of developing countries, and the promotion international cooperation.

With offices in London and New York, EMGA assists financial institutions and corporations seeking new debt or equity capital.

-- BERNAMA

OUTSTANDING FIGURES, INSTITUTION RECOGNISED IN 46TH KING FAISAL PRIZE

KUALA LUMPUR, April 23 (Bernama) -- The 46th session of King Faisal Prize has acknowledged exceptional accomplishments in the fields of gene therapy for neuromuscular diseases and groundbreaking Ribonucleic acid (RNA) discoveries.

Revolutionary scientist Professor Jerry Mendell was awarded the Medicine Prize for his groundbreaking contributions to the screening, early diagnosis, and treatment of neuromuscular disorders, notably spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) and Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD).

Meanwhile, Professor Howard Chang received the Science Prize for unveiling the intrinsic role of long non-coding RNAs in gene regulation and function, a previously overlooked area of study, according to a statement.

Through innovative gene therapy approaches, Professor Mendell, a Director of Gene Therapy Center at Nationwide Children’s Hospital and Curran Peters Chair in Pediatric Research, has revolutionised treatment strategies, offering hope to countless patients worldwide.

On the frontier of molecular biology, physician-scientist and Professor of Dermatology and Genetics, and Virginia and D.K. Ludwig Professor of Cancer Research at Stanford University, Professor Chang's elucidation of the role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in gene regulation has revolutionised the understanding of cellular processes and disease mechanisms.

Through innovative genome-wide methodologies, Professor Chang has uncovered the intricate interplay between lncRNAs and gene expression, shedding light on fundamental biological processes underlying development, cancer, and ageing.

In addition to honouring advancements in medicine and science, the King Faisal Prize also recognised exemplary contributions in Islamic Studies to Professor Wael Hallaq, while the Japan Muslim Association and Mohammad El Sammak were honoured for their exemplary leadership in serving Islam and humanity.

King Faisal Prize for Arabic Language & Literature for 2024 on the topic of “Non-Arab Institutions and their Endeavors to Promote Arabic” was withheld due to nominated works not elevating to the criteria of the prize.

Launched by the King Faisal Foundation and granted for the first time since 1979, King Faisal Prize in its five different categories has awarded 295 laureates who have made distinguished contributions to different sciences and causes.

Each prize laureate is endowed with US$200,000; a 24-carat gold medal weighing 200 grammes, and a Certificate inscribed with the Laureate’s name and a summary of their work which qualified them for the prize. (US$1=RM4.77)

-- BERNAMA

GRADIANT LAUNCHES CURE CHEMICALS FOR THE WORLD'S ESSENTIAL INDUSTRIES

Comprehensive portfolio of over 300 proprietary chemical formulations with on-site expertise and world-class service enhances efficiency and sustainability while maximizing cost savings


BOSTON, April 17 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Gradiant, a global solutions provider for advanced water and wastewater treatment, announced today the launch of CURE Chemicals. Continuing Gradiant’s track record of innovation and commercialization, CURE Chemicals will set new benchmarks in environmental sustainability and operational efficiency for the world’s essential industries.

The CURE Chemicals product line includes over 300 proprietary formulations for corrosion and scale inhibitors, process chemicals, biocides, antiscalants & cleaners, and coagulants & flocculants. These products are engineered to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of water treatment processes while minimizing their environmental footprint.

"The launch of CURE Chemicals represents a major milestone for Gradiant as we expand our portfolio to include specialty chemicals that complement our end-to-end water solutions capabilities," said Prakash Govindan, COO of Gradiant. "We are now the water industry’s only complete, site-wide portfolio providing bespoke design, proprietary equipment, O&M services, and specialty chemicals uniquely positioned to deliver whole-system expertise complemented by SmartOps AI for accurate, intelligent operation.”

CURE is developed via cutting-edge research combined with operational feedback tailored to meet the demanding requirements of industries ranging from semiconductors to renewables, mining to energy, and food & beverage to pharmaceuticals. "We are excited to bring these chemical solutions to the global market, which not only perform better than incumbents but also adhere to the highest standards of safety and sustainability, all at compelling value to our clients," said Vipan Kalia, Head of Chemicals at Gradiant.

For more information on how CURE Chemicals can benefit your operations, please visit gradiant.com/solutions/cure-chemicals.

About Gradiant
Gradiant is a global solutions provider for advanced water and wastewater treatment. With a full suite of differentiated and proprietary end-to-end solutions, powered by the top minds in water, the company serves its clients' mission-critical operations in the world's essential industries, including semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, food & beverage, lithium and critical minerals, and renewable energy. Gradiant’s innovative solutions reduce water used and wastewater discharged, reclaim valuable resources, and renew wastewater into freshwater. The Boston-headquartered company was founded at MIT and has over 1,000 employees worldwide. Learn more at gradiant.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: 
https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20240416877381/en/

Contact

Corporate Contact
Felix Wang
Gradiant
Global Head of Marketing
fwang@gradiant.com

Source : Gradiant