Wednesday 31 August 2016

47 Representatives From 25 Ministries To Participate In CDC's Nemo Programme

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 30 (Bernama) -- Some 47 representatives from 25 ministries' finance division in the country are expected to participate in the National Exploration of Marine Life and Ocean (NEMO) programme.

 

In a statement today, E-commerce service provider, Commerce Dot Com Sdn Bhd (CDC) said the two-day programme will be held in Pulau Redang, Terengganu from Sept 2, 2016.



Biomedic Graduate Earns RM30,000 A Month From Flower Decoration

KOTA BHARU, Aug 31 (Bernama) -- A graduate in biomedical, Mohd Nawawi Mustapa, 38, opts to make and sell decorative flowers to earn his living, and the job pays well, providing him an income of about RM30,000 a month.

Mohd Nawawi, from Tok Uban in Pasir Mas, said he took up the skill on making decorative flowers while studying at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) in 2004 and found himself more into the industry than pursuing a career in biomedical.

"I started my craftwork using forest products and the response was good that I was able to penetrate the market in Singapore.....

--BERNAMA

http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v8/newsindex.php?id=1278385

Tuesday 30 August 2016

ALTAIR NANOTECHNOLOGIES ANNOUNCES PROPOSED DERIVATIVE SETTLEMENT AND SUMMARY NOTICE OF HEARING

RENO, Nev., Aug 30 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Altair Nanotechnologies, Inc., today issued the following statement: 

UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF NEW YORK


In re Altair Nanotechnologies Shareholder
Derivative Litigation

CASE NO.: 14-CV-09418-AT
 
SUMMARY NOTICE OF PROPOSED SETTLEMENT OF THE
ALTAIR NANOTECHNOLOGIES, INC. SHAREHOLDER DERIVATIVE LITIGATION

PLEASE BE ADVISED that Plaintiff and the Settling Defendants have reached a settlement (the “Settlement”) to resolve the issues raised in the above-captioned consolidated derivative action (“Action”) (capitalized terms are defined in the Stipulation of Settlement dated July 22, 2016 (“Stipulation”)).

Finance Professionals Hail Rise Of Artificial Intelligence, Automation And Robots

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 30 (Bernama) -- Finance professionals welcomed the rise of artificial intelligence, automation and robots despite the fears ranging from job losses to doomsday scenarios following the adoption of the new innovations.

According to a survey conducted by the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), 83 per cent of its 1,628 members backed the idea of more automation if it saved time and money or helped with indecision in their organisations.

"This indicates that the accountants regard the impact of new technologies as an opportunity rather than a threat," it said in a statement today.....

--BERNAMA

http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v8/newsindex.php?id=1278172

HYTERA LAUNCHES LATEST DMR HANDHELD RADIO PD98X

PD98X, a new member of the already versatile DMR portfolio of Hytera, brings exceptional audio experience with enhanced features and innovations
 
SHENZHEN, China, Aug 30 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Hytera, a world leading solution provider of Professional Mobile Radio communications, has launched its latest DMR (Digital Mobile Radio) handheld PD98X, adding another strong member to its top-notch DMR portfolio. PD98X offers an exceptional audio experience through noise cancellation technology, while boasting new features including full duplex calls, recording capability via Micro SD, Bluetooth 4.0 for audio or data and single frequency repeater mode to increase coverage.
 
“We are proud to announce the launch of PD98X,” said G.S. Kok, Senior Vice President of Hytera. “A series of cutting-edge innovations and designs have been added into this new model to make it a full-featured radio to satisfy customers' increasing demand for functionality and user experience."

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27431

TOSHIBA LAUNCHES VIDEO PROCESSOR FOR HIGH RESOLUTION AUTOMOTIVE PANELS

- Realizes display on Full HD panels and simultaneous displays on two panels -
 

TOKYO, Aug 25 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Toshiba Corporation's (TOKYO: 6502) Storage & Electronic Devices Solutions Company today announced the launch of “TC90175XBG,” a new addition to its line-up of video processors for high resolution automotive displays. Sample shipments start today, with mass production scheduled to start in the first half of FY2017.

Driver support information displays are increasingly used in vehicles, for applications other than navigation, prompting demand for larger, higher resolution panels. 

Monday 29 August 2016

ISETAN MITSUKOSHI GROUP TO OPEN NEW SPECIALTY STORE "ISETAN THE JAPAN STORE KUALA LUMPUR" IN MALAYSIA, INTRODUCING GENUINE JAPANESE QUALITY, LIFESTYLES AND AESTHETICS

TOKYO, Aug. 29, 2016 /Kyodo JBN-AsiaNet/ --

The Isetan Mitsukoshi Group, supported by the government-financed Cool Japan Fund Inc., will open a new specialty store, "ISETAN The Japan Store Kuala Lumpur," in Malaysia at the end of October 2016.

As global interest in Japan continues to grow, we are pleased to introduce Japanese history, culture, technology, diversity and lifestyle designs. The new store will deliver Japanese lifestyles and aesthetics to customers. We will bring not only the best of Japan, but authentic Japanese experiences as well.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27423

Sunday 28 August 2016

ASPECT SOFTWARE INTRODUCES CHATBOT - "VIRTUAL ASSISTANT" TECHNOLOGY

- Chatbots designed with Aspect’s Natural Language Understanding (NLU) and integrated with agent-assisted service from the contact center gives consumers best of both worlds
-Aspect's Interactive Text Response (ITR) based self-service transforms customer interaction with two-way dialogue
 
SINGAPORE & KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 25 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Aspect Software, a leading provider of fully-integrated consumer engagement, workforce optimization, and self-service solutions, recently launched its Interactive Text Response (ITR) solution backed by Aspect’s Natural Language Understanding (NLU) to deliver automated customer service with a personal touch. Also known as “chatbots,” this “virtual assistant” technology provides the ability to interact with customers on messaging channels in a natural, conversational way.

The chatbots can engage consumers in a conversation to get more information when needed or complete multi-step transactions. And when agent assistance is needed, conversations can be transferred seamlessly with full contact center integration and appropriate routing to the right agent without the consumer needing to repeat themselves. 

HEMISPHERX BIOPHARMA ANNOUNCES MAJOR BREAKTHROUGH: APPROVAL FOR COMMERCIAL SALE OF RINTATOLIMOD (U.S. TRADENAME: AMPLIGEN(R)) TO TREAT SEVERE CASES OF MYALGIC ENCEPHALOMYELITIS/CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME (ME/CFS) IN THE ARGENTINE REPUBLIC

First Product Approved for ME/CFS Indication Anywhere in the World

Breakthrough Approval Provides Clear Path for Growth in Latin America and the European Union

PHILADELPHIA, Aug 26 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Hemispherx Biopharma, Inc. (NYSE:HEB) (the “Company” or “Hemispherx”), announced that it has received approval of its New Drug Application (NDA) from Administracion Nacional de Medicamentos, Alimentos y Tecnologia Medica (ANMAT) for commercial sale of rintatolimod (U.S. tradename: Ampligen®) in the Argentine Republic for the treatment of severe myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS).  The product will be marketed by GP Pharm, Hemispherx’s commercial partner in Latin America.  We believe that rintatolimod is the first drug to receive approval for this indication anywhere in the world.  We also believe that there are no other products in the pipeline for approval, worldwide, for this debilitating disease.  A copy of the official approval from ANMAT, translated in English, is available on the Company’s website athttp://ir.hemispherx.net/Events_Presentations.

The approval was based on submission of two pivotal studies, AMP-502 and AMP-516. Safety data also included additional CFS and non-CFS studies for a total of over 800 subjects including over 100 subjects with severe CFS who received Ampligen® for one year or longer. Several post-approval activities are required to be completed before product launch, including manufacturing site inspections and reimbursement evaluation by the Health Services Authority (SSS), the central health authority in Argentina.  “Working closely with our partner in this effort, GP Pharm, our team at Hemispherx addressed all medical and scientific issues presented by ANMAT and deserves great credit for this major success. At Hemispherx, we may be small by big pharma standards, but our commitment to addressing this dire unmet medical need makes us mighty,” stated Hemispherx CEO Tom Equels.

Saturday 27 August 2016

'DREAM TO FLY' TOPS IN YOUTH VIDEO AWARDS 2016

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 25 (Bernama) -- A short video clip entitled 'Dream to Fly', based on the 'You Only Live Once' (YOLO) concept and produced by 'Dreamers', emerged as the top winner of the Youth Video Awards 2016.

Based on a true story of a child in Sabah who missed his education opportunity, it was the work of seven students from Universiti Teknologi Mara (UiTM) Puncak Perdana's Film, Theatre and Animation Faculty, with one of them, Putri Purnama Sugua (repeat: Putri Purnama Sugua), 23, the director.

"My aim of presenting the dilemma of children who could not go to school won the hearts of the jury. My sacrifice to use my own savings of RM7,000 to produce the clip has been definitely worth it.

"After this I plan to produce a film which will also capture life in the rural heartland of Sabah which seldom gets attention,' Putri told the media, adding that the video clip was shot in her hometown, Kampung Muhibbah, Sandakan Sabah.

The victory of the seven-minute clip earned 'Dreamers' RM8,000 in cash prize, sponsored by the Life Insurance Association of Malaysia (LIAM), and a challenge trophy, besides the 'Best University' trophy and 'Best Lecturer' award.
   
Second place was won by 'Chanceux Production' from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak with their video entitled 'Samat'; third place by Group 5 from UiTM Puncak Perdana (Kalbu Bonda) and fourth place went to Sendu Production from UiTM Puncak Perdana (Maaf Ayah).

The results were announced at the Grand Finale of the Youth Video Awards 2016 at Sasana Kijang, Bank Negara, here today.

Earlier, LIAM President Toi See Jong, in his speech, said through the Youth Video Awards that the insurance industry would like to see youth from all creeds and race united as Malaysians and contribute meaningfully towards nation building.

The Youth Video Awards 2016 was a collaboration with Malaysian Youth Community, Higher Education Ministry and National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas).

It attracted 661 entries from 24 local universities and colleges, and 11 finalists were selected based on their storyline, creative techniques and soundtrack to present their short videos.

-- BERNAMA
 

'DREAM TO FLY' TOPS IN YOUTH VIDEO AWARDS 2016

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 25 (Bernama) -- A short video clip entitled 'Dream to Fly', based on the 'You Only Live Once' (YOLO) concept and produced by 'Dreamers', emerged as the top winner of the Youth Video Awards 2016.

Based on a true story of a child in Sabah who missed his education opportunity, it was the work of seven students from Universiti Teknologi Mara
(UiTM) Puncak Perdana's Film, Theatre and Animation Faculty, with one of them, Putri Purnama Sugua (repeat: Putri Purnama Sugua), 23, the director.

"My aim of presenting the dilemma of children who could not go to school won the hearts of the jury. My sacrifice to use my own savings of RM7,000 to produce the clip has been definitely worth it.

"After this I plan to produce a film which will also capture life in the rural heartland of Sabah which seldom gets attention,' Putri told the media, adding that the video clip was shot in her hometown, Kampung Muhibbah, Sandakan Sabah.

The victory of the seven-minute clip earned 'Dreamers' RM8,000 in cash prize, sponsored by the Life Insurance Association of Malaysia (LIAM), and a challenge trophy, besides the 'Best University' trophy and 'Best Lecturer' award.
 
Second place was won by 'Chanceux Production' from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak with their video entitled 'Samat'; third place by Group 5 from UiTM Puncak Perdana (Kalbu Bonda) and fourth place went to Sendu Production from UiTM Puncak Perdana (Maaf Ayah).

The results were announced at the Grand Finale of the Youth Video Awards 2016 at Sasana Kijang, Bank Negara, here today.

Earlier, LIAM President Toi See Jong, in his speech, said through the Youth Video Awards that the insurance industry would like to see youth from all creeds and race united as Malaysians and contribute meaningfully towards nation building.

The Youth Video Awards 2016 was a collaboration with Malaysian Youth Community, Higher Education Ministry and National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas).

It attracted 661 entries from 24 local universities and colleges, and 11 finalists were selected based on their storyline, creative techniques and soundtrack to present their short videos.

-- BERNAMA

Friday 26 August 2016

CSX CYBER CHALLENGE TO BE HELD AT ISACA'S GLOBAL CSX CONFERENCES

Cybersecurity Competition Coming to Las Vegas, London and Singapore

ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill., Aug 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Competitive games can drive innovation, improve performance, and showcase skills in a structured environment. To provide such opportunities, global IT and cybersecurity association ISACA and The Center for Infrastructure Assurance and Security (CIAS) will host new CSX Cyber Challenge competitions at ISACA’s upcoming CSX conferences around the world.


TOSHIBA LAUNCHES LOW-INPUT CURRENT DRIVE, RAIL-TO-RAIL OUTPUT, GATE-DRIVE PHOTOCOUPLERS

Low-height package products allow bufferless direct drive of low-to-medium-power IGBTs and MOSFETs from microcontrollers

TOKYO, Aug 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Toshiba Corporation’s (TOKYO: 6502) Storage & Electronic Devices Solutions Company today announced the launch of a series of low-input current drive, rail-to-rail output, gate-drive photocouplers in a low-height package that allows bufferless direct drive of low- to medium-power IGBTs and MOSFETs from microcontrollers. Shipments of the three new products; “TLP5771”, “TLP5772” and “TLP5774” start from today.


A.M. BEST AFFIRMS RATINGS OF ROYAL INSURANCE CORPORATION OF BHUTAN LIMITED

SINGAPORE, Aug 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE-- A.M. Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of B+ (Good) and the issuer credit rating of “bbb-” of Royal Insurance Corporation of Bhutan Limited (RICB) (Bhutan). The outlook for each rating is stable.
 
The rating affirmations reflect RICB’s adequate risk-adjusted capitalization, favorable operating performance and well-established presence in its domestic market. RICB maintains a dominant market profile as Bhutan’s only life insurer and also maintains a leading non-life market position with a two-thirds share of overall premium.



VITAL EXPLORING APPLICATION OF MICROSOFT HOLOLENS WITHIN ITS ENTERPRISE VISUALISATION SOLUTION

Targeting the next generation of clinical user experience

MINNEAPOLIS, Aug 25 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Vital Images, Inc. (Vital), a Minneapolis-based advanced medical imaging and informatics company, is pleased to present a sneak preview of holographic computing with its VitreaView® enterprise imaging solution at the HIMSS Asia Pacific annual conference in the Vital booth (#412), 23-26 August in Bangkok, Thailand. Vital is exploring the potential application of the Microsoft HoloLens as an extension of its enterprise visualisation solution, including the company's VitreaView and Vitrea® Advanced Visualisation software.

Microsoft describes HoloLens as "the first fully self-contained, holographic computer, enabling you to interact with high‑definition holograms in your world." Introducing this type of virtual interaction to healthcare presents a range of potential possibilities in providing clinicians an immersive view of a patient’s anatomy, while extending that visibility to remote team members, consulting physicians or healthcare informatics partners:
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27399

NATURE & FUTURE INC. LAUNCHES ECO-FRIENDLY ORGANIC FARMING MATERIALS IN SOUTHEAST ASIAN MARKETS


JEOLLANAM-DO, South Korea, Aug 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Nature & Future Inc. (CEO: Mae-ho Park) (www.nfagro.co.kr), an innovative Korean company specializing in eco-friendly organic farming materials, is entering Southeast Asian markets with a wide array of organic products, including “MyeolchungDaejang Gold,” a Green Technology product for control of chestnut pests.
 
MyeolchungDaejang Gold” is the first of its kind in Korea to win Green Technology quality certification from the government. Its outstanding quality was recognized by two Korean cities, Gwangyang and Suncheon, which decided to use it this year to protect their chestnut trees from insects and disease pests. 

Thursday 25 August 2016

FSI COATING TECHNOLOGIES LAUNCHES VISGARD PREMIUM ANTI-FOG COATING FOR PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR AND AUTOMOTIVE AND TRANSIT APPLICATIONS

IRVINE, Calif., Aug 25 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- FSI Coating Technologies, Inc., a leader in high performance anti-fog coatings today announced the launch of Visgard® Premium. With the addition of Visgard Premium, three Visgard product line extensions now offer a greater range of durability levels, product applications, and price points.  These anti-fog coatings transform the durability and appearance of protective eyewear, face masks, shields, as well as interior headlamps and gauges for automotive and transit applications. 


SERVICESOURCE CELEBRATES EXPANSION OF ASIA-PACIFIC HEADQUARTERS IN SINGAPORE, INCREASES FOCUS ON REGIONAL MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Expanded revenue delivery center will support regional companies pursuing accelerated international expansion and global revenue growth

SINGAPORE, Aug 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- ServiceSource (NASDAQ:SREV), the global leader in customer success and revenue-as-a-service solutions, today announced it has relocated its Asia-Pacific headquarters in Singapore to a new, larger and more central location in Mapletree Business City 2. The company celebrated the grand opening of its new location with a ribbon-cutting, traditional Lion Dance ceremony, as well as a reception for company executives, employees, customers and local business leaders.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27387

KEIO PLAZA HOTEL TOKYO HOLDS "SPORTS NEWS PHOTOGRAPH EXHIBITION"

Capturing the Excitement of Global Sports in Summer 2016 and Introducing Precious Episode of Muhammad Ali

TOKYO, Aug 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo (KPH), one of Japan's most prestigious international hotels located in Shinjuku, Tokyo, will jointly host a photographic exhibition celebrating sports entitled "Athletes Competing in the Global Arena - Sports News Photograph Exhibition 2016" with The Mainichi Newspapers Co., Ltd. and The Sports Nippon Newspapers Co., Ltd. from September 1st to November 14th, 2016. This complimentary exhibition will display about 50 photographs taken by news photographers depicting athletes competing in various global sporting events in the lobby areas of our hotel. In addition to this photographic exhibition, a special section will be created in memory of Muhammad Ali, one of the world's most famous professional boxers who passed away in June, to display various photographs including scenes from his visit to Japan to fight Antonio Inoki, one of Japan's most famous professional wrestlers, in 1976.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27382

GORDAGEN RECEIVES AUD$1.3 MILLION R&D TAX INCENTIVE

MELBOURNE, Australia, Aug 24 (Bernama-AsiaNet) --

* Refund based on AUD$2.8 million in eligible R&D spending used to advance the Company's development programs.

* Two nutraceutical products currently being prepared for US launch by end of 2016.

Gordagen Pharmaceuticals, a private Australian company developing biopharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals based on the medicinal properties of tocotrienols, is pleased to announce it has received a Research and Development Tax Incentive Refund of AUD$1.3 million for the 2015/2016 financial year.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27384

Wednesday 24 August 2016

NIKE LAUNCHES NEW NIKE+ RUN CLUB APP

New Innovations in Adaptive Coaching, Expert Guidance and Unrivaled Motivation Make it the Perfect Running Partner

BEAVERTON, Ore., Aug 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- NIKE, Inc. (NYSE: NKE) today launched a significant update to its popular new Nike Run Club app, which gives athletes access to a new adaptive coaching feature, expert guidance from the world's best athletes and coaches and unrivaled motivation and community - all designed to make running easier and a lot more fun.

"Through the new Nike Run Club app, we're serving a running community that spans the globe with the most innovative and personalized experiences we've ever offered to runners," said Nikki Neuburger, VP, Global Running Brand. "We've thoughtfully considered and updated how we surround runners with everything and everyone they need to reach their full potential and have more fun with the sport, from coaching plans that adapt to meet their needs, to inspiration, motivation and a community of million to run with."
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27377

KEIO PLAZA HOTEL TOKYO HOLDS "SPORTS NEWS PHOTOGRAPH EXHIBITION"

Capturing the Excitement of Global Sports in Summer 2016 and Introducing Precious Episode of Muhammad Ali

TOKYO, Aug 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo (KPH), one of Japan's most prestigious international hotels located in Shinjuku, Tokyo, will jointly host a photographic exhibition celebrating sports entitled "Athletes Competing in the Global Arena - Sports News Photograph Exhibition 2016" with The Mainichi Newspapers Co., Ltd. and The Sports Nippon Newspapers Co., Ltd. from September 1st to November 14th, 2016. This complimentary exhibition will display about 50 photographs taken by news photographers depicting athletes competing in various global sporting events in the lobby areas of our hotel. In addition to this photographic exhibition, a special section will be created in memory of Muhammad Ali, one of the world's most famous professional boxers who passed away in June, to display various photographs including scenes from his visit to Japan to fight Antonio Inoki, one of Japan's most famous professional wrestlers, in 1976.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27382

Tuesday 23 August 2016

MERCHANT BANK OF SRI LANKA CHOOSES FISERV FOR NEW CORE BANKING AND FRONT-END TELLER SYSTEMS

Bank to implement Fiserv solutions to facilitate the delivery of financial services that are in step with how people live today
 

SINGAPORE & BROOKFIELD, Wis., Aug 22 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Fiserv, Inc. (NASDAQ: FISV), a leading global provider of financial services technology solutions, today announced that Merchant Bank of Sri Lanka & Finance PLC (MBSL) has selected the Signature®core account processing platform and Teller front-end teller system from Fiserv.

In January 2015, the MBSL PLC finance company, Sri Lanka’s pioneer merchant bank, merged with two subsidiaries, MBSL Savings Bank Limited and MCSL Financial Services Ltd. With the merger, the branch network grew from 30 to 49 branches with an increase to 100,000 customer accounts. In order to support this larger branch network and customer base, MBSL needed technology that was flexible, scalable and stable. The company chose Fiserv solutions to help streamline operations and simplify customer management and support. 

VITAL TO SHOWCASE ENTERPRISE INTEROPERABILITY FOR IMPROVED CLINICAL CARE AND BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE AT HIMSS ASIA PACIFIC

MINNEAPOLIS, Aug 23 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Vital Images, Inc. (Vital), a Minneapolis-based advanced medical imaging and informatics company, will feature its enterprise interoperability solutions at the HIMSS Asia Pacific annual conference in booth 412, 23-26 August in Bangkok, Thailand. Vital’s healthcare imaging informatics (HII) solutions for enterprise interoperability and connectivity help healthcare organisations improve clinical care and business intelligence with complete imaging informatics, including flexible deployment of advanced visualisation, enterprise-wide viewing, scalable image management and operational analytics.
 
HII’s enterprise interoperability solution-set helps providers improve both clinical care and operational outcomes with image management and business intelligence solutions that utilise a scalable platform and can be implemented within existing infrastructure. Flexible deployment options offer customers superior choice and control in patient care and resource planning.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27379

XURA ANNOUNCES COMPLETION OF ACQUISITION BY AFFILIATES OF SIRIS CAPITAL GROUP, LLC

WAKEFIELD, Mass., Aug 22 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --  Xura, Inc. (NASDAQ:MESG), a leading provider of digital communications services, today announced the completion of its acquisition by affiliates of Siris Capital Group, LLC (“Siris” or “Siris Capital”) in a transaction reflecting an equity value of approximately $643 million. 

The transaction, which was initially announced on May 23, 2016, was approved by a majority of Xura’s shareholders on August 16, 2016. In connection with the closing of the transaction, the company, which will continue to operate as Xura Inc., will be wholly owned by affiliates of Siris Capital.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27371

Monday 22 August 2016

7,000 CELEBRATE BULAN KEBANGSAAN IN MYBUDDIES RUN #SEHATISEJIWA

CYBERJAYA, Aug 22 (Bernama) -- In conjunction with National Day celebration, the Ministry of Communications and Multimedia Malaysia (KKMM) and MYNIC have organized a running event at national level – myBuddies Run #sehatisejiwa. The event had gathered 7,000 people of various backgrounds from all over the country.

The myBuddies Run #sehatisejiwa is a continuation from the previous Larian Sehati Sejiwa held in 2015. The event was attended by YB Datuk Seri Dr. Salleh Said Keruak, Minister of KKMM, YBhg. Dato’ Sri Dr. Sharifah Zarah Syed Ahmad, Secretary General of KKMM, YBhg Datuk Bridget Lai, Chairman of MYNIC and YBhg. En. Hasnul Fadhly Hasan, Chief Executive Officer of MYNIC.


A.M. BEST AFFIRMS RATINGS OF TOKIO MARINE & NICHIDO FIRE INSURANCE CO., LTD. AND ITS SUBSIDIARY, TOKIO MARINE PACIFIC INSURANCE LIMITED

HONG KONG, Aug 22 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the financial strength rating (FSR) of A++ (Superior) and the issuer credit rating (ICR) of “aa+” of Tokio Marine & Nichido Fire Insurance Co., Ltd. (TMNF) (Japan). A.M. Best also has affirmed the FSR of A+ (Superior) and the ICR of “aa-” of TMNF’s subsidiary, Tokio Marine Pacific Insurance Limited (TMPI) (Guam). The outlook for each of these ratings remains stable.
 
The rating affirmations reflect TMNF’s strong risk-adjusted capitalization, track record of favorable operating performance and strong business profile. TMNF’s risk-adjusted capitalization, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), remained strong to support the company’s current rating despite the decrease over the past year mainly due to the sizeable increase in goodwill related to the acquisition of HCC Insurance Holdings, Inc. (HCC) (U.S.), in 2015.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27369

Friday 19 August 2016

ACCA: SUSTAINABLE COMPANIES ARE BETTER POSITIONED TO ATTRACT INVESTORS AND REAP BENEFITS

The ACCA MaSRA 2016 aligns to new requirements by Bursa Malaysia

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 18 (Bernama) -- Sustainability practices and reporting in Malaysia is becoming a mainstream exercise within Corporate Malaysia, with many companies reaping the benefits that come with it, said ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants).

According to the Head of ACCA Malaysia, David Chin, there has been an unprecedented wave of activity to recalibrate businesses' processes, behaviours and reporting towards a sustainable future.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27357

NIPPON PAINT BAGS THIRD AWARD FOR THIS YEAR

     
     
    KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 17 (Bernama) -- Nippon Paint Malaysia Group (Nippon Paint)
celebrates its third industry win this year after being conferred with Silver
Award under Home Improvement Category for Putra Brand Awards 2016 held here
recently.

    Its group managing director, Yaw Seng Heng said the triple wins for Nippon
Paint marked the high magnitude of trust and acknowledgement that would make
Malaysia's leading coating expert to strive even harder.

    "This truly recognises our ever-dedicated team that has continuously stayed
focused in two key areas, (namely) innovation and our customer.

    "Moving forward, in living our mantra as 'The Coatings Expert', we will
continue to place strong emphasis in research and development activities and
introduce new innovative coatings, in both the functional as well as aesthetic
categories to serve the needs of our consumers," he said in a statement here
today.

    Earlier this year, Nippon Paint was conferred with the Platinum Award, the
highest recognition under the Paint category for the Reader’s Digest Trusted
Brands Award Malaysia 2016, which also marked its 11th year in winning this
award since 2006.

    Nippon Paint was also awarded the Paint Company of the Year 2016 and New
Product Innovation Leadership Award 2016 by Frost & Sullivan which recognised
its efforts to always push the boundaries when it comes to colours and product
innovation.

    -- BERNAMA

JAPAN NATIONAL TOURISM ORGANIZATION OPENS "JAPAN ON-LINE MEDIA CENTER"

TOKYO, Aug. 19, 2016 /Kyodo JBN-AsiaNet/ --

- Media Platform Designed Specifically to Distribute Photos and Videos of Japan for Overseas Media -
 
The Japan National Tourism Organization opened the "Japan On-line Media Center"
(https://jomc.jnto.go.jp/) on August 19, 2016.
 
(Photo1:
http://prw.kyodonews.jp/prwfile/release/M103968/201608173415/_prw_OI1fl_0Na4eRkq.jpg)
 
 
The Japan On-line Media Center (JOMC) is a media platform designed specifically to distribute information for media. With a database of over 7,000 photos and videos, JOMC offers an exceptional tool for overseas media creating tourism content for Japan.
                                                                                


A.M. BEST AFFIRMS RATINGS OF PVI INSURANCE CORPORATION

SINGAPORE, Aug 19 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the financial strength rating (FSR) of B++ (Good) and the issuer credit rating (ICR) of “bbb” of PVI Insurance Corporation (PVI Insurance) (Vietnam). The outlook for the FSR remains stable, while the outlook for the ICR remains positive.
 
The rating affirmations reflect PVI Insurance’s strong risk-adjusted capitalization, favorable business profile in Vietnam’s non-life insurance market and good operating performance.


NASDAQ EXTENDS MARKET SURVEILLANCE CONTRACT WITH BM&FBOVESPA

The exchange groups renew their partnership to continue fighting market abuse and increase transparency in the Brazilian market

NEW YORK and SAO PAULO, Brazil, Aug 19 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --
 Nasdaq, Inc. (Nasdaq:NDAQ) has announced  today the extension of their contract regarding BM&FBOVESPA’s – the largest stock exchange in Latin America – use of the SMARTS Market Surveillance platform across Brazil's equities, commodities and futures markets.


A.M. BEST AFFIRMS RATINGS OF PVI REINSURANCE JOINT-STOCK CORPORATION

SINGAPORE, Aug 19 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the financial strength rating of B+ (Good) and the issuer credit rating of “bbb-” of PVI Reinsurance Joint-stock Corporation (PVI Re) (Vietnam). The outlook for each rating remains positive.
 
The rating affirmations reflect PVI Re’s adequate risk-adjusted capitalization, favorable operating results and good business profile.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27362

Thursday 18 August 2016

INDIA - PROMISING MARKET FOR MALAYSIAN TIMBER

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 18 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Timber Council (MTC) will be organizing a marketing mission to Chennai and Bangalore, India, from 21 to 27 August 2016.

MTC Chief Executive Officer Datuk Dr Abdul Rahim Nik will lead a delegation comprising 19 Malaysian timber product exporters to India. Eleven of the 19 manufacturers are first-time participants of this marketing mission.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27353

UNIONPAY HCE MOBILE QUICKPASS LAUNCHED IN MACAU

SHANGHAI, China, Aug. 18, 2016 /Xinhua-AsiaNet/--
 
UnionPay International and ICBC jointly announced on August 17, that they are launching UnionPay HCE mobile QuickPass in Macau. This is the first mobile credit card introduced in the market. Customers with UnionPay cards (card number starting with 62) issued by ICBC Macau will be the first to enjoy this secure and convenient mobile payment service.
  
As UnionPay's new mobile payment brand, mobile QuickPass enables offline contactless payment with mobile devices, wearables and UnionPay chip cards, and it also supports online payment. UnionPay mobile QuickPass is compatible with a variety of mobile phone brands, including Huawei, MI, ZTE and Lenovo. Adopting dynamic key and tokenization, mobile QuickPass avoids showing the authentic card number during transaction, and the transaction information is stored within the network of the issuer and UnionPay, effectively assuring payment security.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27356

PWC'S 25 FASTEST GROWING CLOUD COMPANIES SIGNAL SOFTWARE CLIMATE CHANGE

First-time ranking shows opportunities and obstacles facing software vendors
 
NEW YORK, Aug 18 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- With cloud computing rapidly reshaping the software industry, PwC has ranked the 25 Fastest Growing Cloud Companies to help understand what drives success when vendors move to the cloud.
 
Released as part of PwC’s Global 100 Software Leaders research report, this first-time cloud-specific ranking suggests that no one type of company has the secret formula for success in the cloud.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27350

FIRST DATA TAPS IVO DISTELBRINK TO LEAD ASIA PACIFIC REGION

Global Banking Leader Will Join First Data Management Committee
 
NEW YORK, Aug 18 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- First Data, a global leader in commerce-enabling technology and solutions, announced today that Ivo Distelbrink will join the company to lead its business in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region. Reporting to Chairman and CEO Frank Bisignano, Distelbrink will be based in Singapore and will also serve on First Data’s Management Committee.
 
“I am delighted to welcome Ivo to the First Data team as he prepares to lead our business in APAC, where we see significant growth opportunities for First Data,” said Bisignano. “With more than 20 years of global banking experience, coupled with extensive regional knowledge, Ivo is the right leader to take advantage of emerging industry trends in APAC, including the continued shift to eCommerce and mobile payments.”

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27349

"JUST DO IT - NIKE UNLIMITED CAMPAIGN" CONTINUES TO INSPIRE ATHLETES EVERYWHERE TO PUSH BEYOND THEIR LIMITS WITH DEBUT OF "UNLIMITED WILL"

The campaign, which has struck a chord worldwide with nearly 300 million views to date highlights quadruple amputee Kyle Maynard in final installment

BEAVERTON, Ore., Aug 18 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE) today unveiled the final film in its powerful and globally reaching “Just Do It – Nike Unlimited Campaign” which showcases how unlimited determination can overcome the toughest of challenges.


A.M. BEST REMOVES FROM UNDER REVIEW AND AFFIRMS RATINGS OF HYUNDAI INSURANCE (CHINA) CO., LTD.

HONG KONG, Aug 18 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has removed from under review with negative implications and affirmed the financial strength rating of B++ (Good) and the issuer credit rating of “bbb” of Hyundai Insurance (China) Co., Ltd. (HIC) (China). The outlook assigned to each rating is negative.
 
The rating actions reflect HIC’s adequate risk-adjusted capitalization, which has recovered over the past six months with credit risk decreasing on the progress in settling claims related to the Aug.12, 2015, Tianjin Port explosions. In addition, HIC receives a wide range of support from its parent company, Hyundai Marine & Fire Insurance Co., Ltd., which is currently working on a recapitalization plan for HIC.


Wednesday 17 August 2016

Management Accountants In Singapore Enjoy Good Earnings, Says CIMA



SINGAPORE, Aug 15 (Bernama) -- The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants' (CIMA) Annual Salary Survey revealed that average annual earning among qualified members here reached S$189,904 (S$1 = RM2.99) in 2016 and nearly half of its members were satisfied with their salaries.

In a statement today, CIMA said, the survey found that students in the process of gaining their CIMA qualifications received an average annual salary of S$86,778, translating into a monthly average of S$7,231.

It said the survey also showed that members and students here were positive about their salary development, with 94 per cent of the members and 96 per cent of students expecting an increase in the next 12 months.

On average, members expected their salaries to rise by 5.4 per cent, while students were more optimistic with an average anticipated rise of seven per cent, it said.

CIMA said on top of base salaries, members here who received a bonus (89 per cent) expected to receive, on average, 14 per cent of their annual salary, although 36 per cent anticipated a bonus of 20 per cent of their salary.

Meanwhile, students who received a bonus (85 per cent) expected an average of 12 per cent of their annual salary as bonus in 2016, it said.

The association said about 56 per cent of its members and 50 per cent of CIMA students here were likely to switch jobs and join a different organisation within the next two years.

"Financial reward is the main motivator (above 60 per cent), followed by scope of job role (above 50 per cent).

"For members, 30 per cent also cited job security as a possible reason for wanting to change jobs while 42 per cent of students cited challenging workload as a reason for change.

"Members and students also mentioned training and skills as a possible reason for switching businesses," it said.

CIMA South-East Asia Head, Shavonne Sim, said management accountants enjoyed good earnings, revealing their enduring value to businesses.

"This is a reflection of the importance of their skillset - they have an ability to help drive good decisions in the short, medium and long term, and help business leaders generate value," Sim said.

-- BERNAMA

HONOR DRIVES GLOBAL SMARTPHONE GROWTH WITH THE LAUNCH OF HONOR 8

New Honor 8 flagship phone strengthens Honor’s global presence and introduces global ambassador, Brooklyn Beckham

SAN FRANCISCO, Aug 17 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Today at the California Academy of Sciences, Honor, a global smartphone brand targeted towards millennial consumers, launched the new Honor 8, Honor’s flagship smartphone for young mobile natives in search of the extraordinary. In addition, Brooklyn Beckham was announced as the Honor global ambassador, releasing his documentary-style film.


DATACOLOR® RELEASES SPYDER®5CAPTURE PRO, THE COMPLETE COLOR CALIBRATION SOLUTION FOR IMAGING PROFESSIONALS

LAWRENCEVILLE, N.J., Aug 17 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Datacolor®, a global leader in color management solutions, today announced the release of Spyder®5CAPTURE PRO, the next generation of its popular color calibration solutions for photographers, designers and imaging professionals. Spyder5CAPTURE PRO features all the essential products needed to manage color from image capture to post production, including SpyderLENSCAL,SpyderCHECKRSpyderCUBE, and Spyder5ELITE.



GRID2020 AND SMUD TAG TEAM POWER THEFT

Intra-Grid Sensors Identify Nearly $400K of Illicit Activity

RICHMOND, Va., Aug 17 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- GRID2020, Inc., a leading distribution transformer monitoring solutions provider released a statement today regarding its ongoing collaborations with Sacramento Municipal Utility District (SMUD).


Tuesday 16 August 2016

XURA TO PROVIDE SECURE NETWORK SIGNALING TO TIER-1 MOBILE OPERATOR TITAN

Beats competitors with mature solution, latest technology and solid signaling expertise
 
WAKEFIELD, Mass., Aug 16 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Xura, Inc. (NASDAQ:MESG), a leading provider of digital communications and security services, today announces that its Signaling Fraud Management solution has been chosen by one of the world’s largest mobile network operators, for real-time analysis and fully-active signaling filtering.  Through a thorough competitive tender (RFP) process, Xura’s solution was selected ahead of its closest competitors for its technical superiority, clearly diminishing the validity of one competitor’s claim to be “market leader”.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27331

NIKE UNVEILS "UNLIMITED YOUTH" FILM CELEBRATING ATHLETES WHO PUSH BEYOND THEIR LIMITS TO EMBODY AN UNLIMITED MINDSET

At 86, “Iron Nun” shows that a positive attitude is the key to success
 
BEAVERTON, Ore., Aug 16 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- NIKE, Inc. (NYSE:NKE) today unveiled a new film that captures how an unlimited mindset can be the key to breaking through limits, while staying forever young.
 
Unlimited Youth” celebrates an extraordinary athlete, Sister Madonna Buder, and her determination to defy conventional conceptions of age. It is the latest installment in Nike’s “Just Do It – Nike Unlimited Campaign,” which hails both the everyday athlete and the champion athletes who regularly push beyond the unimaginable.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27326

ISOLA NAMES KEN RIZVI CFO

Former Micron executive to lead financial operations at PCB laminate materials manufacturer

CHANDLER, Ariz., Aug 16 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Isola, a market leader in copper-clad laminates and dielectric prepreg materials used to fabricate advanced multilayer Printed Circuit Boards (PCBs), announced that it has appointed Ken Rizvi as Chief Financial Officer, effective immediately. Rizvi succeeds Interim CFO Donald Colvin, who will continue to serve on Isola’s board of directors, a position he has held since 2010.


Monday 15 August 2016

A.M. BEST SPECIAL REPORT: HONG KONG'S LIFE BUSINESS FACING HEADWINDS ON NEW GROWTH

HONG KONG, Aug 15 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The Hong Kong life insurance market has experienced strong new business growth over the past two to three years, but it will be challenged going forward to continue high growth levels given weakened domestic demand and new measures imposed by the Chinese government to impede the purchase of cross-border, long-term policies from Mainland China visitors (MCV). These new measures, according to a new A.M. Best special report, will increase the regulatory and administrative costs for life insurers.
 
The Best’s Special Report, titled, “Hong Kong’s Life Business Facing Headwinds on New Growth,” states that while most of the developed life insurance markets in Asia have been facing bottlenecks in growth, Hong Kong has reported double-digit growth annually, since 2010, in terms of new business premium in direct individual businesses, and has been the fastest-growing life insurance market among developed markets within Asia.



MCMC Awards 1.7 Million Networked Media Research Collaboration Grants To Seven Universities

PUTRAJAYA, Aug 15 (Bernama) -- Eight research grants, totaling RM1.7 million, were awarded to seven local universities under the Networked Media Research Collaboration Programme (NMRCP) Cycle 4 by the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC).

The universities were namely Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Heriot-Watt University Malaysia, Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), Universiti Teknologi Mara, Sunway University, International Islamic University (UIA) and Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman (UTAR).


Friday 12 August 2016

"HOT 97 SUMMER JAM TOKYO" MARKS NEW CHAPTER IN HISTORY OF URBAN MUSIC SCENE IN ASIA

TOKYO, Aug. 12, 2016 /Kyodo JBN-AsiaNet/ --

- FRENCH MONTANA, PUSHA T, FABOLOUS, OMARION, AKLO, AK-69, BANGKOK INVADERS & DABOYWAY, etc. Appear on Stage -

Avex Live Creative Inc. has successfully hosted "HOT 97 SUMMER JAM TOKYO," the first overseas event of "HOT 97 SUMMER JAM."

The announcement at the end of March this year that "HOT 97 SUMMER JAM TOKYO" would be held had a great impact on Japanese Hip Hop fans.



Thursday 11 August 2016

​2016 CHINA YIWU INTERNATIONAL FOREST PRODUCTS FAIR TO BE HELD ON NOVEMBER 1-4

YIWU, China, Aug 11 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- 2016 China Yiwu International Forest Products Fair, focusing on the display of forestry innovation and the promotion of business opportunities, is going to be held in Yiwu of Eastern China’s Zhejiang Province on November 1-4, 2016. Running into its ninth year, this annual event is expected to attract a record-breaking 1,200 exhibitors from across China and the world to showcase their latest, environment-friendly products and technologies.
 
Themed “Share Green Practices”, the Fair of this year consists of 8 categories: Furniture & Accessories, Timberwork & Wooden Building Materials, Wood & Bamboo Handicrafts, Wood & Bamboo Daily Necessities, Forest Food, Tea Products, Flower & Gardening, Forestry Technology & Forestry Equipment. More than 3,000 standard booths will be provided for 1,200 exhibitors at the Yiwu International Expo Center. An estimated 100,000 visitors and potential buyers including 5,000 oversea visitors will attend the event to reach deals worth an estimated RMB 4 billion (US$ 603 million).

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=27315

PAY TV PLATFORM FOR INTERNATIONAL COMMUNITIES: BOBBLES.TV BRINGS CHINESE TV CHANNELS TO EUROPE

HAMBURG, Germany & BEIJING, Aug 11 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- TV just like at home – for millions of Chinese viewers in Europe. The new bobbles.tv pay TV platform is going on air today. The service for international communities in Europe is launching with 18 popular Chinese channels. bobbles.tv can be received throughout Europe via satellite and internet. An Indonesian TV package featuring seven channels is launching at the same time as the Chinese service. Channels for Indian, Korean and Vietnamese communities will follow in November. bobbles.tv is driven by the Hamburg-based company bubbles media, whose partners are among others the experienced German media managers Arnold C. Kulbatzki and Dr. Torsten Rossmann.