Starr Insurance appoints new Head of International Accident & Health

 

KUALA LUMPUR, July 27 (Bernama) -- Starr Insurance Companies (Starr) has appointed Santiago Mora as head of International Accident & Health responsible for the growth of the division outside the US and Canada.

President of Starr Insurance & Reinsurance Ltd, Jim Herbert said Mora brings more than 20 years of industry experience in sales, distribution, underwriting and pricing.

"His wealth of knowledge will benefit the growth of our Accident & Health Division and his leadership will strengthen the relationships Starr has and with its customers and partners, " Herbert added.

Starr´s Accident & Health Division provides personal accident and travel insurance to companies, associations, schools, non-profit organizations and individuals to protect against accidents and emergencies, a statement said.

Starr provides property, casualty and accident and health insurance products as well as a range of specialty coverages including aviation, marine, energy and excess casualty insurance.

The insurance company subsidiaries domiciled in the US, Bermuda, China, Hong Kong, Singapore and UK -- each have an A.M. Best rating of "A " (Excellent). More details on http://www.starrcompanies.com/

--BERNAMA

CALGON CARBON APPOINTS STEVE SCHOTT PRESIDENT AND CEO

Pittsburgh, PA, July 25 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Calgon Carbon Corporation announced today that Steve Schott has been named President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective August 3. Schott will replace Randy Dearth, who announced he was leaving the company after six years.

Kuraray’s Director and Senior Executive Officer and President of Functional Materials, Mr. Yoshimasa Sano, said, “With Steve as President and CEO, we are confident that we can continue the momentum we have built since acquiring Calgon Carbon in March. Steve is both a strong and well-respected leader within Calgon Carbon, and I look forward to working with him in his new role as President and CEO.”

“I’m truly honored for this opportunity. I am proud of Calgon Carbon, its talented employees, and all we have accomplished. I am excited to continue this journey with such a great team,” said Steve Schott.

Mr. Schott joined Calgon Carbon in 2007 as Executive Director of Finance. In 2010 he was promoted to Vice President and Chief Financial Officer with responsibility for all corporate financial functions. In 2015 Steve was promoted to Executive Vice President, Advanced Materials, Manufacturing, and Equipment. In this role, Steve also has responsibility for the company’s European operations, where Calgon Carbon is known as Chemviron.

Prior to joining Calgon Carbon, Schott spent eight years at DQE, Inc., a conglomerate whose primary business was electric energy. During his tenure, he held various positions including Controller, Vice President of Finance and Chief Financial Officer. Schott also spent 15 years at Deloitte & Touche where he was a senior manager in the auditing practice. He holds a B.S. in Business Administration from Duquesne University.

About Calgon Carbon Corporation

Calgon Carbon, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Kuraray Co., Ltd. (TYO: 3405) (Kuraray), is a global leader in the manufacture and/or distribution of innovative coal-, wood- and coconut-based activated carbon products – in granular, powdered, pelletized and cloth form – to meet the most challenging purification demands of customers throughout the world.  Complemented by world-class activated carbon and ultraviolet (UV) light purification and disinfection equipment systems and service capabilities, as well as diatomaceous earth and perlites, Calgon Carbon provides purification solutions for more than 700 distinct applications, including drinking water, wastewater, pollution abatement, and a variety of industrial and commercial manufacturing processes.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32350

ANNOUNCEMENT OF BUSINESS EXPANSION OF CHUGAI PHARMABODY RESEARCH PTE. LTD., CHUGAI'S RESEARCH SUBSIDIARY

TOKYO, July 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Chugai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (TOKYO:4519) announced today that it has decided to expand the business of Chugai Pharmabody Research Pte. Ltd. (hereinafter referred to as “CPR”), its research subsidiary in Singapore.

This decision has been made aiming to further improve drug discovery capabilities of the Chugai Group, in which the operation period of CPR is to be extended for another five years with an investment of 282 million Singapore dollars (SGD) from 2022 to 2026. CPR was established in 2012 to conduct research focused on the discovery of novel antibody drugs by utilizing innovative antibody engineering technologies owned by Chugai. The operation period of CPR was initially planned to be five years until 2016, and then extended for five additional years. An investment of 476 million SGD is planned to be made for 10 years from 2012 to 2021.


http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32358

SHARESPOST AND OKCOIN ANNOUNCE PARTNERSHIP FOR GLOBAL SECURITY TOKEN NETWORK

San Francisco, CA, July 26 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- SharesPost, a leading provider of private company liquidity solutions and private capital markets research, has announced that OKCoin will be joining SharesPost’s Global Liquidity And Settlement System (GLASS) as exchange nodes. In conjunction with SharesPost’s existing Alternative Trading System (ATS), GLASS will provide OKCoin with compliant access to the U.S. investor market.

“With the security token market poised to take off in 2018 and beyond, we’re thrilled to be partnering with OKCoin on the upcoming launch of GLASS,” said Greg Brogger, Founder and CEO of SharesPost. “As one of the leading global digital asset exchanges, OKCoin will be an instrumental partner as we build a new, decentralized network that can facilitate the trading, certification, and custody of security tokens and tokenized assets in a streamlined, cost-efficient manner.”

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32353

Kyriba achieves 48 pct bookings growth for first half of the year

KUALA LUMPUR, July 25 (Bernama) -- Kyriba Corp, a New York based cloud treasury and financial management platform provider -- grew year-over-year sales bookings by 48 per cent during the first half of the year.

The growth is benefiting from strong performances across all global markets. The results show continuous acceleration in growth over the past three years.

Kyriba has added more than 100 new enterprise clients during the period, consolidating its leadership in the cloud-based treasury and risk management solution space. The company in a statement said it now serves 15 per cent of U.S. Fortune 500 companies.

Kyriba Chief Executive Officer, Jean-Luc Robert said: "When it comes to digital transformation, many global organizations are looking to upgrade their core treasury and finance operations through Kyriba´s enterprise platform.

"This ongoing shift is one of several tailwinds that have enabled us to post such a strong first half, with a run rate that will see us eclipse US$100 million (RM406 million) in total revenue by year-end, " he said. (1US$ = RM4.06)

Thousands of companies rely on Kyriba to streamline key processes, protect against loss from fraud and cybercrime and accelerate growth opportunities through improved decision support.

More details on www.kyriba.com

--BERNAMA

​TACONIC BIOSCIENCES AND CYAGEN BIOSCIENCES ANNOUNCE STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

RENSSELAER, N.Y., July 19 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Taconic Biosciences and Cyagen Biosciences, global leaders in the generation of custom genetically engineered rodent models and associated services, announced a strategic partnership. Under the agreement terms, the two companies will combine resources to provide the global scientific community with access to premium custom model design and generation services backed by comprehensive capabilities and cutting-edge, fully-licensed technologies.

Custom animal models play a critical role in new drug discovery as biological systems that provide critical insight into the dynamic between a potential therapeutic and a living organism.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32311

Cushman & Wakefield to acquire its Irish Affiliate from Sherry Fitzgerald Group

 

KUALA LUMPUR, July 17 (Bernama) -- Cushman & Wakefield has entered into an agreement to acquire the commercial property arm of Sherry FitzGerald Group in the Republic of Ireland.

Cushman & Wakefield is one of the world´s largest real estate services firms with 48,000 employees in approximately 400 offices in 70 countries.

The acquisition is expected to complete in early September 2018, a statement said.

Cushman & Wakefield already has a 20 per cent stake in the Irish commercial property business which operated as its exclusive affiliate in the Republic

rebranding two years ago as Cushman & Wakefield Ireland.

The firm has more than 100 commercial property professionals and offices in Dublin, Limerick and Galway, will now be fully integrated into Cushman & Wakefield.

Managing Director, Aidan Gavin becomes Cushman & Wakefield´s Head of Ireland and will also sit on the firm´s UK and Ireland Executive Committee.

Cushman & Wakefield will maintain its close affiliate relationship with the wider Sherry FitzGerald Group, which has a further 97 offices across the Republic.

As part of the transaction, the firm will also acquire, from Sherry FitzGerald Group, a minority share in its affiliate commercial property businesses in Cork and Belfast. The remaining equity, held by shareholding directors, is unaffected.

More details on www.cushmanwakefield.com

--BERNAMA 

POLYPLASTICS USES COMPUTER-AIDED ENGINEERING (CAE) TO FORECAST PARTS DEFORMATION DURING PRODUCTION OF LCP CONNECTORS

TOKYO, July 18 (Bernama-AsiaNet) -- Polyplastics Co., Ltd., a leading global supplier of engineering thermoplastics, is successfully utilizing computer-aided engineering (CAE) analysis to forecast parts deformation during the reflow process when manufacturing connector parts made of liquid crystal polymer (LCP). These LCP connectors are finding growing use in mobile devices such as smartphones and switches, along with automotive-related applications.

LCP parts can expand considerably in the high-temperature conditions of the reflow process which can have an adverse effect on the flatness of a final product. Since heat deformation can cause poor bonding as a result of insufficient soldering to the metal terminals, it is important to find ways to reduce heat deformation, particularly as the market sees growing demand for smaller connectors. In response, Polyplastics looked to CAE and began considering design-stage deformation forecasting for molded articles in the reflow process.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32307

Tinubu Square, Gestion Credit Expert collaborate on debt collection service

KUALA LUMPUR, July 17 (Bernama) -- Tinubu Square has sealed a strategic partnership with Gestion Credit Expert to ensure customers of Recovery Square -- a subsidiary of Tinubu Square -- receive seamless continuity of its debt collection services.

Tinubu Square is a French trade credit, bonding and surety and receivables finance solutions provider while Gestion Credit Expert, also a French provider of credit management solutions.

As Long Arc Capital and Bpifrance have invested EUR 53 million (RM250.16 million) at the end of 2017, Tinubu Square is pursuing its international expansion and will concentrate on its core activity -- software publishing and services offering on risk analysis services. (EUR 1 = RM4.72)

In this context, the activities of its Recovery Square are taken over by Gestion Credit Expert, a statement said.

It is critical for Tinubu Square to ensure a seamless continuity of services to its long-term customers, both in France and internationally, as well as to offer, in particular to its credit insurance customers, the benefits and the high-quality services of this partnership.

"We are confident that our customers will benefit from seamless continuation of high-quality service provision from such an internationally-minded and experienced partner as Gestion Credit Expert which is expanding rapidly worldwide in this market, " said chief executive officer and founder of Tinubu Square, Jerome Peze.

"Through this partnership, we reinforce our position in the market and move further forward to contribute to two of the main challenges faced by our economy: increasing corporate cash flow and reducing corporate trade credit risk worldwide ", said chief executive officer of Gestion Credit Expert, Christophe Nobilet.

More details on www.tinubu.com and www.gestioncreditexpert.com

--BERNAMA

2018 FARNBOROUGH AIR SHOW MARKS DEBUT OF BOMBARDIER NEW ATMOSPHÉRE CABIN

MONTRÉAL, July 17 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bombardier Commercial Aircraft unveiled the interior of the first CRJ Series aircraft with the new ATMOSPHÈRE cabin design on the opening day of the Farnborough International Air Show in the United Kingdom.

Bombardier showcased the new cabin alongside launch operator Delta Air Lines and supplier Zodiac Aerospace during its air show inauguration event.

“Our product is evolving, and this signature cabin design represents the latest innovation to our very successful regional jet program,” said Fred Cromer, President, Bombardier Commercial Aircraft. “This cabin design will add value to airlines, the feedback has already been very positive as demonstrated with the recent momentum we have gained in the market.”

The CRJ900 aircraft on static display at the airshow is painted in Delta Air Lines livery and fitted with the ATMOSPHÈRE cabin.

Bombardier will also emphasize its presence at the airshow from July 16-20 with a display of a Q400 aircraft in the colours of Ethiopian Airlines, as well as a Global 6000 business jet featuring the Premier Cabin.

Bombardier’s static display and chalet are located at OE26 and A5, respectively.

About the ATMOSPHÈRE Cabin
The new ATMOSPHÈRE cabin sets new standards of passenger experience in the regional jet market segment. Key features of the new interior are comprised of larger passenger living space, wheel-first roller bag capability, more spacious lavatory, increased cabin connectivity options, all integrated in a contemporary design and material choices. In fact, the ATMOSPHÈRE cabin design allows each passenger to carry and store an “oversized” roller bag within the aircraft cabin bins which minimizes the need to check bags at the counter or the gate. To learn more: DiscoverAtmosphere.com

About the Farnborough International Air Show
https://www.farnboroughairshow.com/

About Bombardier
With over 69,500 employees across four business segments, Bombardier is a global leader in the transportation industry, creating innovative and game-changing planes and trains. Our products and services provide world-class transportation experiences that set new standards in passenger comfort, energy efficiency, reliability and safety.

Headquartered in Montreal, Canada, Bombardier has production and engineering sites in 28 countries across the segments of Transportation, Business Aircraft, Commercial Aircraft and Aerostructures and Engineering Services. Bombardier shares are traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange (BBD). In the fiscal year ended December 31, 2017, Bombardier posted revenues of $16.2 billion. News and information are available at bombardier.com or follow us on Twitter @Bombardier.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32294

SQUIRRELS RESEARCH LABS ANNOUNCES ACORN CRYPTOCURRENCY ACCELERATION HARDWARE

NORTH CANTON, Ohio, July 13 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Squirrels Research Labs today announced Acorn, a new hardware component that improves efficiency and effectiveness of cryptocurrency mining.

“We developed a piece of hardware called Acorn that increases the effectiveness of existing GPU mining operations without adding a significant cost,” Squirrels president David Stanfill said. “This is a brand new concept that’s never been done before.”

Acorn works in sync with GPUs to offload work that typically creates bottlenecks in mining. It performs the work much faster, resulting in an increase in overall mining efficiency.

Initially three models will be available: CLE-101, CLE-215 and CLE-215+. Each model uses high-performance FPGA chips from Xilinx Inc. (NASDAQ:XLNX) in an M.2 slot to perform the least GPU-efficient parts of cryptocurrency mining.

All Acorn models work with memory-intensive algorithms like Ethash and CryptoNight V1. The 215 and 215+ models work with both memory-intensive and core-intensive algorithms like LyraREv2 and X16r. Acorn CLE-215+ utilizes 30 percent more FPGA performance for the most efficient power-to-hash-rate ratio.

The three models are priced to show a quick return on investment for GPU miners at $199.99, $299.99 and $329.99 USD respectively.

Acorn requires the use of the free, multi-algorithm SQRL mining software, SQRL Miner. SQRL Miner combines the best parts of other mining software in one place and allows for quick-glance operation monitoring. While it’s designed to work specifically with Acorn and Acorn-accelerated CPU and GPU hardware, it can be used without Acorn hardware.

“We want Acorn to be useful for anyone mining with GPUs,” Stanfill said. “We’ve created shared bitstreams, open specifications and open APIs. We’re already seeing a thriving community, and we’re excited for what that will bring as it continues to flourish.”

Preorders begin Friday, July 13, with shipments beginning in August.

“Acorn is only the beginning of many firsts to come from SQRL,” Stanfill said. “We already have other products in development and are beginning to see demand.”

About Squirrels Research Labs
Squirrels Research Labs, SQRL, is a sister company of Squirrels LLC under the Squirrels Inc. umbrella. SQRL focuses on hardware development and research projects that contribute to the overall success of the Squirrels brand. Learn more at http://squirrelsresearch.com.

Sidney Keith
Squirrels Inc.
press@airsquirrels.com
O: 855-207-0927 ext. 7001

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at
http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9cd092d2-98ea-4955-9e10-adac93925817
http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/a6a8193d-7952-4c74-8f93-d541569169d9
http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/583a1e1e-c0d4-4736-8440-89cb13f6d349

Source : Squirrels LLC

--BERNAMA

PUTRA BUSINESS SCHOOL REACHES SCB FUTURE LEADER CHALLENGE 2018 SEMI-FINAL

KUALA LUMPUR, July 16 (Bernama) –  Putra Business School (PBS) of Universiti Putra Malaysia  has emerged as one of the 12 semi-finalists in the Siam Commercial Bank PLC (SCB) Future Leader Challenge 2018, held in Thailand, recently.

The competition had been held from June 26 to June 30.

PBS, in a statement today, said it was the only local university representing Malaysia, vying with 201 teams from 24 countries that included notable institutions such as the United Kingdom’s Cambridge University and Portugal’s University of Porto. 

Known as The Forte, the PBS team comprised of Master of Business Administration (MBA) students. They are Muhammad Hakim Abdul Monir, Huseyn Jaya Wirawan, Yahya Hassan Khan and Amir Farid Abdul Majid.

Based in Thailand, the SCB Future Leader Challenge is a competition for master’s degree students, which provide the participants with the opportunity to enhance and practise their analytical skill set by solving real-life business cases.

The participants would get professional feedback from a panel of judges and the chance to win the H.M. King’s Award and monetary prizes.

The National University of Singapore had been announced as the winner of the competition. 

For detailed information about the challenge and its winners, visit www.scbflc.com.

--BERNAMA   

​LEADING FINTECH AND PAYMENT GROUP ADOPTS FUSIONEX BIG DATA ANALYTICS AND AI

SINGAPORE, July 12 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Fusionex, a leading data technology provider specializing in Big Data Analytics (BDA), the Internet of Things (IoT), Machine Learning, and Artificial Intelligence (AI) today announced that a leading financial services group, in an effort to enhance its e-payment business, is now utilizing Fusionex Big Data Analytics and AI as part of the group’s foray in technological solutions to gain a deeper understanding of its customers with the data at its disposal.

Fusionex Big Data Analytics is an end-to-end data management and analytics platform with the ability to analyze voluminous amounts of data at near-real-time speed to reveal trends, patterns, and hidden insights.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32267

INFOGRAPHIC | PETRONAS' CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY EFFORTS IN SARAWAK

Caption : PETRONAS’ CSR efforts to help Sarawakians in education

Caption : PETRONAS’ efforts with regards to environment conservation in the Miri-Sibuti Marine Park.

SOURCE : PETRONAS

NORTH AMERICA AND AFRICA LEAD THE WAY IN ECONOMIC CONFIDENCE DESPITE TRADE WARS SPOOKING ECONOMIC SENTIMENT, FINDS ACCA AND IMA ECONOMIC SURVEY

KUALA LUMPUR, July 13 (Bernama) -- The global economic recovery that started in late 2016 is starting to lose momentum, with global confidence in Q2 dipping from its Q1 high, finds the latest edition of ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) and IMA Global Economic Conditions survey.

Although it remains high by recent standards, the slight fall in confidence reflects increasing fears of a trade war between the US and China. This continues to effect global outlook, with China’s economic sentiment falling sharply.

Despite this, North America remained the most confident region in the world in the second quarter, with official data showing that the massive tax cut at the start of the year is leading to higher consumption in the US; Africa was the second most confident region, sharing an optimistic outlook with North America. Both regions are where the number of people expecting conditions to improve exceeded those who expected conditions to worsen. Central & South America was the least confident region.

The picture for the UK is in sharp contrast, where economic confidence plummeted in Q2, with figures being well below the historical average. This finding aligns with the latest GDP data, which shows that the economy grew by just 0.2% in the first quarter of 2018. It also comes alongside worrying signs that the UK is struggling to come to an agreement with the rest of the European Union on the terms of its exit.

Narayanan Vaidyanathan, Head of Business Insights at ACCA says: ‘The net dip in global confidence levels reflects factors such as fears of US-China trade wars more than compensating for other factors such as low employment and tax cuts in the US. The dip was seen both in OECD and non-OECD countries, though confidence in both groups remains relatively high by historical standards.’

Raef Lawson, IMA vice president of Research and Policy and Professor-In-Residence adds: ‘Our Q2 analysis mirrors other data that the global economic recovery has slowed since the start of the year. However, confidence is still high by past standards, and a sharp slowdown in economic growth is unlikely in the months ahead. The differences between regions and countries shows marked differences, with concerns about the China-US trade war intensifying - these are uncertain times, and Q3’s results will be heavily impacted by the decisions made in the Whitehouse about tariffs.’

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32285

Pick up accounting in two days

KUALA LUMPUR, July 13 (Bernama) -- A two-day accounting and financial analysis for non-accountants course is now available at the Putra Business School (PBS), Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) for people like business owners and department heads who would like to learn the fundamentals of financial management.

By the end of the programme, participants will be able to interpret and analyse financial statements and essential financial ratios. They will also understand the value of a firm or project's returns and performance, as well as recognise the factors needed in financial analysis and know the limitations of the financial statement.

Course facilitator, Dr Ahmed Razman Abdul Latiff, is a senior lecturer at PBS with vast experience in risk management, institutional governance, corporate governance and internal control systems.

He is often sought by the media for his opinions on economics, finance, ethics and corporate governance.

The course, from July 25 to 26, will be held at the TNCPI Building in UPM from 9am-5pm. The cost per participant is RM1,900. PBS and UPM alumni and staff are entitled to a 10 per cent discount, while participants who register as a trio will be entitled to a 15 per cent discount.

For details, visit the PBS Facebook page, www.putrabusinessschool.edu.my or e-mail: amirul@putrabs.edu.my or call 010-878 5336.

-- BERNAMA

China's Dashang Group launches digital shopping app

KUALA LUMPUR, July 13 (Bernama) -- Dashang Group - the largest department store group in Northeast China - launched Tiangou Net, a digital shopping app that makes shopping easier.

President of Dashang Group, Liu Sijun said they will transform traditional business and accelerate entity business revolution through comprehensively building a digital and intelligent e-commerce platform and promoting the technological innovation of big data flow ecosystem.

The app features user with benefits including access to find a parking space in northern China cities, receive price reduction messages, get updated with favourite products and shopping guide information, a statement said.

Tiangou Net promotes in-depth integration of the traditional grocery industry and the Internet to help tens of thousands of department stores in China become future department stores recognised by the Ministry of Commerce , China (MOFCOM).

From 2014 to 2017, the app had achieved 30 billion yuan or RM 18.3 billion in transactions with more than 10 million users, making it as one of China's top e-commerce enterprises. (1 yuan = RM0.61)

Dashang Group has more than 400 department stores and shops in more than 80 large and medium-sized cities over 15 provinces. The company looks for the best-quality products around the world and bringing them into China's huge market.

-- BERNAMA

TOSHIBA STARTS SHIPMENT OF UL508 CERTIFIED PHOTORELAYS FOR INDUSTRIAL CONTROL EQUIPMENT

TOSHIBA STARTS SHIPMENT OF UL508 CERTIFIED PHOTORELAYS FOR INDUSTRIAL CONTROL EQUIPMENT

TOKENPAY AND LITECOIN ANNOUNCE AN EXTENSIVE CRYPTO STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP

LUCERNE, Switzerland, July 11 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Recently, TokenPay Swiss AG announced its partnership with WEG Bank in Germany. Under the terms of the previously announced deal, TokenPay acquired 9.9% of the bank along with options to purchase approximately 90% overall of the bank pending the customary regulatory approval. Today, this 9.9% stake in WEGBank was further transacted to the benefit of Litecoin Foundation in exchange for a broad and comprehensive marketing and technology service agreement to benefit TokenPay and its related cryptocurrency and business operations. As a result of this partnership, TokenPay and Litecoin combine as a leading force in creating and delivering to the market modern consumer-driven crypto FinTech solutions.

Specifically, TokenPay will directly benefit from Litecoin's high-level blockchain mechanization capabilities. The partnership will focus on several key areas that have been identified by analysts as critical to the success of the enterprise. This includes, but is not limited to, the TPAY cryptocurrency and its vital blockchain, eFin decentralized exchange (DEX) and the EFIN coin, TokenSuisse asset management and structured financial products, WEG Bank FinTech platform including high demand consumer debit cards and the TokenPay Multisignature Transaction Engine designed for processing fast and secure crypto e-commerce payments for merchants.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32261

Global survey on molecular testing in lung cancer patients

KUALA LUMPUR, July 12 (Bernama) -- The International Association for the Study of Lung Cancer (IASLC) encourages participation from all professionals who involved in molecular testing of lung cancer patients in its global survey.

The survey is designed to assess the implementation of best practices and ultimately develop worldwide guidelines for molecular testing, a statement said.

Expert participation is critical to understanding the current status of molecular testing of the cancer as well as any regional challenges and barriers to implementation.

The IASLC, founded in 1974 also invites health care professionals and other interested parties to take part in the survey. It is available in English, Chinese, Japanese, Portuguese and Spanish.

A summary of the key findings will be shared with respondents and a full report will be submitted to the Journal of Thoracic Oncology, the official journal of the IASLC, for publication.

Respondents will be entered into a drawing to win free registration to an upcoming IASLC World Conference on Lung Cancer.

The IASLC is committed to serving as a global resource for all involved in lung cancer -- the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide.

Take the survey on www.iaslc.org/survey.

--BERNAMA

WORLD PRAISES INDONESIA FOR ITS SAR ABILITIES

JAKARTA, Indonesia, July 11 (Bernama-AsiaNet) -- The world has praised Indonesia for its abilities in conducting search and rescue (SAR) service given this archipelagic country is highly disaster-prone and composed of 17,506 islands, with the total length of coastline reaching 99.095 KM.

"Indonesia has often experienced natural disasters so they have excellent abilities to investigate and respond to various incidents," said Greg Waldron, editor of a leading aviation magazine FlightGlobal as quoted on Wall Street Journal, on December 30, 2014, right after Indonesia SAR team (Basarnas) discovered the wrecks of AirAsia Flight QZ8501 crashed on December 28, 2014 in Java Sea.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32263

CELGENE AND ACCELERON ANNOUNCE LUSPATERCEPT ACHIEVED PRIMARY AND ALL KEY SECONDARY ENDPOINTS IN PHASE III 'BELIEVE' STUDY IN ADULTS WITH TRANSFUSION-DEPENDENT BETA-THALASSEMIA

SUMMIT, N.J. & CAMBRIDGE, Mass., July 10 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Celgene Corporation (NASDAQ: CELG) and Acceleron Pharma Inc. (NASDAQ: XLRN) today announced results from a phase III, randomized, double-blind, multi-center clinical study (BELIEVE). Luspatercept achieved a highly statistically significant improvement in the primary endpoint of erythroid response, which was defined as at least a 33 percent reduction from baseline in red blood cell (RBC) transfusion burden with a reduction of at least 2 units during the protocol-defined period of 12 consecutive weeks, from week 13 to week 24, compared to placebo.

BELIEVE evaluated the efficacy and safety of luspatercept plus best supportive care versus placebo plus best supportive care in adults with transfusion-dependent beta-thalassemia.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32252

VistaJet records positive growth first half of 2018

KUALA LUMPUR, July 12 (Bernama) -- VistaJet Ltd - a global business aviation company -- gained substantial market share around the world during the first half of 2018 driven by the sustained demand for its flagship program subscription model.

"We started 2018 with an impressive acceleration. We continue to see sustainable growth across our business and retain the ability to adapt our offer to meet demand in every region around the globe," said VistaJet's founder and chairman, Thomas Flohr.

The company recorded increases of 32 per cent new members year-on-year, with Europe doubling the number of new contracts against the same period last year. Renewal hours also recorded a growth of 33 per cent, propelled by its service excellence, a statement said.

VistaJet has further invested on service innovation for its passengers with a new program offering, designed around VistaJet customers' passions, encompassed key partnerships with world leading art and sport partners such as Christie's and British Polo Day.

It also seen growth in flight revenue, flight hours and number of flights by 27 per cent whereby North America spearheaded this expansion, accounting for 25 per cent of total global hours flown.

The records demonstrate the global shift in flying preferences for individuals and corporations who are moving away from aircraft ownership to reduce flight costs and asset risks, without compromising on the convenience, benefits and comfort of business aviation.

VistaJet is well positioned to take even more market share by offering global coverage, consistent unparalleled quality and maximum efficiency. More information at https://www.vistajet.com

-- BERNAMA 

LI ZHENGUO: PV WILL BE THE CHEAPEST POWER SOURCE IN MOST PARTS OF THE WORLD

BERLIN, July 10 (Bernama) -- 

 

On July 9, at the 9th Sino-German Economic and Technical Cooperation Forum held in Berlin, Germany, Li Zhenguo, President of LONGi Green Energy Technology Co., Ltd. (LONGi), a leading Chinese PV industry company, made a keynote speech for the Energy Transformation and Energy Conservation Theme Forum, saying that in the next three years solar PV will become the cheapest power source in most parts of the world. He said that, as photovoltaics and energy storage provide the cheapest energy source, the ideal of "Solar for Solar" can be realized in the future. By 2050, PV will become an industry that generates thousands of gigawatts (GWs) per year. LONGi is the world's largest manufacturer of solar monocrystalline silicon photovoltaic products. Since its establishment, it has always focused on single crystal technology and engaged in monocrystalline silicon wafers, single crystal cells and modules, distributed photovoltaic power plants and ground photovoltaic power plants. In Photon's triathlon ranking, LONGi has the best financial health index ranked first and one of the best financial stability indexes. LONGi has a research and development (R&D) team of more than 450 people and has obtained 260 national patents. Since its listing in 2012, the company has invested a total of US$ 385 million in research and development, ranking first in the global photovoltaic industry. The largest provider of monocrystalline wafers and components in the world, LONGi in 2017 has an operating revenue of US$ 2.556 billion, a net profit of US$ 557 million, and the total asset of US$ 5.14 billion. For more information, please visit: http://www.longi-solar.com/ Source: LONGi Green Energy Technology Co., Ltd. (LONGi) Image Attachments Links: http://asianetnews.net/view-attachment?attach-id=315658 --BERNAMA

China's 2018 Milu Deer King Championship staged in Jiangsu

KUALA LUMPUR, July 11 (Bernama) -- The 2018 Deer King Championship was staged at Dafeng Milu National Nature Reserve in Dafeng, Jiangsu, China recently.

Milu Deer is a national first-class protected animal and has become a "flag " of Dafeng's ecological priority and green development.

There are more than 600 Milu deer with more than 200 adult male Milu deer fighting to be the Deer King in the form of wheel battles.

The event was live broadcasted to all media and global audience who witnessed the ultimate "Glory of the King" live, a statement said.

Botanist and zoologist, professor of Nanjing Forestry University, Lu Changhu and senior livestock specialist at the Dafeng Milu National Nature Reserve Management Office, Wang Libo narrated on the competition.

The Milu deer's population has grown from the original 39 to 4,556, accounting for more than 60 per cent of the world's Milu deer. The number in the wild has increased to 905.

-- BERNAMA

UNPAY ATTAINS GLOBAL STANDARD, PCI DSS CERTIFICATION

China, Singapore, July 6 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Merchants of UNPay can now transact via UNPAY with peace of mind. The global one-stop payment platform announced that it had attained the Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard Version 3.2 (PCI DSS) validation on 20 June, having successfully passed its compliance assessment. The PCI DSS is the global standard for safety of card data worldwide, currently the world’s most stringent financial data security standard.

PCI DSS was developed by founding members of the PCI Security Standards Committee that comprises American Express, Discover, JCB International, Mastercard and Visa Inc. It is regarded as the authoritative specification in the industry. Version 3.2 is currently the most updated edition of the PCI DSS certification.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32240

AAGI targets 6,500 runners for AXA Heart In Action Run 2018

KUALA LUMPUR, July 10 (Bernama) -- AXA Affin General Insurance Bhd (AAGI) is targeting 6,500 runners to join AXA Heart in Action Run 2018.

Themed 'Together We Can Make A Difference', AAGI is focused on empowering Malaysians to advocate for important causes and practise healthy living habits.

There are two event categories, which are Actual Run at Anjung Floria in Putrajaya on Sept 30, and Virtual Run,which has been introduced for those who wish to show their support despite being unable to join the run.

Virtual runners can run at their own convenience at any location between Sept 24 and Oct 7 by sending a picture of themselves - running with their bib, date of run, time and distance - to register@score.my to obtain a medal.

AAGI and runners who have registered with AXA Hearts in Action Run 2018 will be contributing a total of RM50,000 to five non-governmental organisation (NGO) partners, namely WWF Malaysia, World Vision Malaysia, National Kidney Foundation of Malaysia, National Cancer Society Malaysia and Yayasan Jantung Malaysia.

Runners can choose from five coloured T-shirts - each representing a different cause - to show support for their choice.

AAGI chief executive officer, Emmanuel Nivet, said: "It was emotionally moving to see runners in multicoloured T-shirts running for a cause close to their hearts in the last three years.

"It is a clear demonstration of Malaysians who believe in coming together as a whole, in a platform that we, at AAGI, are proud to provide," he said in a statement today.

Registration is now open at www.axa.com.my/axa-hearts-in-action-run. Runners may follow AXA Affin Insurance Malaysia Facebook page for more updates.

--BERNAMA 

MIKIMOTO ANNOUNCES LAUNCH OF NEW HIGH JEWELLERY COLLECTION, "JEUX DE RUBANS," AT PARIS STORE

TOKYO, July 6, 2018 /Kyodo JBN-AsiaNet/ --

As part of Paris Fashion Week Haute Couture Fall/Winter 2018/2019, K. Mikimoto & Co., LTD. has presented a new high jewellery collection, "Jeux de Rubans," at its Paris store.

2018 marks 125 years since Mikimoto's founder Kokichi Mikimoto succeeded in the cultivation of pearls. This year Mikimoto also had the honor of being made an official "Haute Joaillerie" member of the "Federation de la Haute Couture et de la Mode."

On Thursday, July 5, 2018, ahead of a scheduled Japan launch on September 29, the company reflected this accolade by making its store at 8 Place Vendome in Paris the venue for the premiere of Jeux de Rubans, a new collection of high Jewellery portraying the timeless motif of ribbons with a touch of luxurious whimsy. The store was lavishly decorated for the occasion in order to showcase Mikimoto's most dazzling new creations as Asia's only high jewellery brand.

About Mikimoto:
In 1893, Mikimoto's founder Kokichi Mikimoto succeeded in creating the world's first cultured pearl. Since then, for more than a century, the company continued to offer jewellery of exceptional quality. It is one of a few companies in the world with an integrated system from production to sales that enables it to ensure quality control and combine exquisite craftsmanship with sophisticated, modern design.

Its continuous dedication to Kokichi Mikimoto's lifelong dream, to adorn the necks of all women around the world with pearls, has earned the company the reputation as Japan's representative jeweller. Headquartered in Tokyo, Mikimoto is a globally respected Japanese fine jewellery house with a presence worldwide including Paris, New York, London, Beijing, Hong Kong, Singapore and Bangkok.

(Photo1: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/201807055713-O1-al7XzS25)
(Photo2: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/201807055713-O2-vN5VtR4N)
(Photo3: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/img/201807055713-O3-55m7gZCi)

Official website: https://www.mikimoto.com/en/index.html

Source: K. Mikimoto & Co., LTD.

--BERNAMA

IKIMfm garners a listenership of 2 million

KUALA LUMPUR, July 6 (Bernama) -- IKIMfm, the radio station owned by the Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia, has a listenership of close to two million people comprising local and international listeners.

The figure was released by GfK (Malaysia), an international market and consumer information research firm.

"Taking all the listeners into account, those who tune in include residents in Southern Thailand, Singapore, and Batam," said IKIMfm in a statement, coinciding with the station's 17th anniversary of its establishment.

IKIMfm was officially launched on July 6, 2001 by Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who was serving as the country's prime minister at that time.

As of now, IKIMfm is the only Islamic-based radio station operating 24 hours daily, nationwide.

IKIMfm present programmes that are designed to be both educational and entertaining, while imbued with Islamic values.

Approximately 95 per cent of the transmission is presented in Malay while the balance are in Arabic and English.

"Starting as the only radio station to go fully digital, we have also made a name by gaining international listenership and spreading the understanding of Islam though our apps," it added.

An IKIMfm success story is the Nasyid Award 2017 (NA17), first started in 2004.

The NA17, organised by the Nasyid IKIMfm chart every Saturday, give acclaim to local nasyid songs, writers and composers.

"In conjunction with our 17th anniversary, we pledge to strengthen existing telecast and add new ones, and we hope for listeners to keep tuning in.

"With the milestone, IKIMfm is reaching out to listeners in other ways by putting together outdoor events such as IKIMfm Mahabbah Carnival, Imarah Ramadan, and humanitarian missions," said the statement.

-- BERNAMA

BAIDU JOINS FORCES WITH SOFTBANK'S SB DRIVE, KING LONG TO BRING APOLLO-POWERED AUTONOMOUS BUSES TO JAPAN

Landmark partnership brings first batch of autonomous vehicles from China to Japan

BEIJING, July 4 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Baidu, Inc. (NASDAQ:BIDU), SB Drive, a subsidiary of Softbank dedicated to self-driving technology research, and King Long, a leading commercial vehicle manufacturer in China, today announced a strategic partnership to jointly develop and deploy a version of the Apolong self-driving mini bus for the Japanese market. Under the agreement, ten Apolong mini buses will be exported to Japan from China in early 2019. This agreement marks the first time autonomous vehicles will be exported from China.

Apolong is a fully autonomous mini bus co-developed by Baidu and King Long. The mini bus is powered by the Apollo open source autonomous driving technologies created by Baidu and is China’s first fully self-driving electric bus to enter the volume production phase. At Baidu Create, Baidu’s annual AI developer conference held on July 4 in Beijing, more than 6,000 attendees witnessed a live stream of the 100^th Apolong bus leaving the assembly line.

“Autonomous vehicles will have a profound impact on our society. We are very excited to bring the Apolong mini bus to Japan and work with local experts to unlock the benefits of this transformative technology. The open collaborations between engineers and researchers from both countries will undoubtedly accelerate the development of autonomous vehicles,” said Charles Zhang, President and CEO of Baidu Japan Inc., who led the project.

"We are excited to be partners with Baidu and King Long on this innovative project to help accelerate the adoption of self-driving technology in Japan," said Yuki Saji, CEO of SB Drive Corp. "In Japan, public transportation is facing a number of challenges, including traffic network reduction, driver shortage and driver aging. We expect self-driving technology will solve these problems in the near future. Launching Apolong is an important step to maintain public transportation in Japan."

Baidu’s Global Business Unit works with local partners to deploy Baidu’s AI technologies and products overseas, especially key projects like the Apollo open autonomous driving technology and the DuerOS conversational AI platform.

The Apollo open autonomous driving platform was launched last year and is one of the world’s largest and most diverse autonomous driving ecosystems. Since its launch, the platform has garnered 116 global partners from automotive and technology industries, including Ford, Bosch, Velodyne, Intel, NVIDIA and Microsoft.

As a member of Apollo, King Long began working with Baidu in October 2017 to develop the Apolong buses. The first fleet will be deployed in geo-fenced places like parks, industrial campuses and airports in five Chinese cities. In the same year, SB Drive, a subsidiary under SoftBank dedicated to autonomous vehicles research and development, conducted autonomous bus testing in Okinawa as part of the “Autonomous Driving System” program designated by the Cabinet Office of Japan. This made them an ideal partner for this project.

Aside from the latest success with the buses, Baidu’s Global Business Unit has successfully commercialized various AI products overseas. In Japan, Baidu's AI powered voice keyboard, Simeji, has become Japan's largest Japanese Kaomoji and Emoji content provider. The high-quality native ad recommendation platform, PopIn, has also covered most mainstream media in Japan, South Korea, Singapore and other countries.

In the future, Baidu Global Business Unit will continue to promote open collaborations and partnerships on technology, product, talent and capital to accelerate the deployment of AI.

About Baidu
Baidu, Inc. is the leading Chinese language Internet search provider. Baidu aims to make a complex world simpler through technology. Baidu's ADSs trade on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol "BIDU". Currently, ten ADSs represent one Class A ordinary share.

Media Contact
Baidu International Communications
Intlcomm@baidu.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d412db1d-e108-4df6-b2f1-59a37e5307b7

Source : Baidu USA, LLC

--BERNAMA

CLEVERTAP MOBILE MARKETING SOLUTION IS THE FIRST TO MARKET TO MAKE AN ENTRY INTO PSYCHOGRAPHIC SEGMENTATION, POWERED BY MACHINE LEARNING

CleverTap’s powerful segmentation engine is transforming how marketers deliver on the promise of retaining users for life

SAN FRANCISCO, July 5 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The leading mobile marketing platform, CleverTap, today announced its entry into the field of psychographic segmentation that sets a new standard for segmenting mobile app users. Psychographic segmentation is an industry-first machine learning capability that sits at the cornerstone of what CleverTap does - help growth marketers deliver on the promise of relationship marketing.

Despite the fact that we live in an age of abundant data, mobile users today expect to receive the right information with the right context. Existing mobile marketing tools help divide the audience by demographics, technographics, location, and app behavior. However, user actions are not always telling of what they are truly interested in. Their behaviors and interests change frequently, based on seasons, sporting events and current affairs. Actions can be one off behaviors or occasional purchases.

It is more critical than ever to identify micro-segments of users based on changing needs and pivot marketing efforts to bring timeliness, context and relevance. Of the numerous interactions that users have with a brand, marketers have to identify which ones characterize with their most dominating interests. For example, watching an action movie on one day does not indicate that they are action movie fans. The user’s predominant genre of interest may in fact be comedy and the content recommendations should be representative of these predominant interests.

This becomes even more challenging when you have hundreds or millions of users, making it impossible to accomplish contextual messaging at scale. By leveraging the power of machine learning, CleverTap leverages psychographic segmentation capabilities to process millions of data points across an entire user base to determine micro-segments of audiences. By determining a propensity or affinity towards one thing over all others, it helps establish an effective match between products and each user’s dominant interests.

With psychographic segmentation, marketers are able to anticipate user needs and predict what product or message will resonate the most with which micro-segment. They are able to find an accurate and a more intuitive way of understanding how users like to spend time on their app. It allows them to run targeted campaigns and significantly increase the chances of conversion.

Leading marketers are finding success with CleverTap’s psychographic segmentation to help them identify the most intelligent way to engage users along their customer journey. For instance, finding users most likely to purchase limited seats of a movie based on their genre of interest and viewing time preferences. With psychographic segmentation, marketers can now send the best offer to the user most likely to find value in it and ensure that their product inventory finds its most optimal buyers.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32234

SEVEN CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS TO RECEIVE FELLOWSHIPS ON CA ANZ PRESIDENT\'S VISIT TO KUALA LUMPUR

SEVEN CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS TO RECEIVE FELLOWSHIPS ON CA ANZ PRESIDENT\'S VISIT TO KUALA LUMPUR

HENGYUAN SHARES HARI RAYA CHEER WITH FENCELINE COMMUNITY

Celebration held in conjunction with 3 million man-hours without lost time injuries since July 2016 

 
PORT DICKSON , July 3 (Bernama) --  Regional major oil-refining company Hengyuan Refining Company Berhad held a Hari Raya open house on 30th June 2018 together with the local community of Port Dickson in the spirit of fostering a stronger communal bond.

The Hari Raya open house was held at Hengyuan Port Dickson refinery and attended over 600 people comprising Hengyuan staff, fenceline communities and local authorities. This event also saw the entire fenceline community invited for the first time, instead of just key representatives with hope to build long lasting relationships.

During the event, the Company celebrated its recent major safety milestone of achieving 3 million consecutive man-hours without lost time injuries since July 2016. This milestone showcases Hengyuan’s devotion in safeguarding employee safety by eliminating unsafe conditions, behaviours and worker injuries on-site.

Hengyuan’s Hari Raya open house was attended by Y.B. Dr. Mohd Rafie bin Ab. Malek, Negeri Sembilan State Exco of Investment, Industrial, Entrepreneurship & Education, Y.B. Dato' Danyal Balagopal, Port Dickson Member of Parliament and Y.B. Ravi A/L Munusamy, Deputy Negeri Sembilan State Speaker.

 “As good corporate citizens, we have invited not only our staff and local authorities to our Hari Raya open house, but also the fenceline community because we wanted to include everyone, from young to old in the Raya cheer. This celebration event is the highlight of our month-long Ramadhan community outreach program which aims to strengthen and deepen our relationship with the local community, as well as make a positive impact in their lives.

We strive to create avenues to celebrate similarities and common interests for all by having a wide range of Hari Raya delicacies and performances, in the spirit of diversity and embracing one another.

Moving forward, we will continue our corporate conscious efforts to host festivities such as this and conduct more outreach programs to ensure the local community are able to constantly engage and prosper together with us.”
Mr.David Keat Chief Executive Officer, Hengyuan Refining Company Berhad

 While attendees feasted themselves on the sumptuous spread, they were also feted by special performances including from Hengyuan’s Chief Executive Officer Mr. David Keat playing guitar and being accompanied by Hengyuan staff on vocals.

The Hari Raya open house was the perfect culmination of local community outreach events during Ramadhan month. The first outreach programme was a Bubur Lambuk distribution for all Port Dickson residents, which was carried out in 4 areas, namely, Hengyuan office, Hengyuan main police station, Port Dickson District office and Port Dickson town. While in 1 June 2018, Hengyuan hosted a breaking fast dinner together with Deputy Negeri Sembilan State Speaker Y.B. Ravi A/L Munusamy for Asnaf families from Kampung Air Meleleh and fenceline communities’ representatives.

About Hengyuan Refining Company Berhad (www.hrc.com.my)

Hengyuan Refining Company Berhad (HRC), formerly known as Shell Refining Company (Federation of Malaya) Berhad (SRC), was incorporated in Malaysia on 19 September 1960. The company was listed on the Main Board of the then Kuala Lumpur Stock Exchange (now known as the Main Market of Bursa Securities) on 29 October 1962.

On 22 December 2016, Malaysia Hengyuan International Limited (MHIL) acquired 51.0% equity stake in SRC from Shell Overseas Holdings Limited for USD66.3 million. MHIL is wholly-owned by Heng Yuan Holdings Limited, which in turn, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Shandong Hengyuan Petrochemical Company Limited. Hengyuan Refining Company Berhad manages and operates a refinery in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan with licensed production capacity of 156,000-bpd. The refinery is involved in the refining and manufacturing of petroleum products, and provides employment for more than 500 individuals comprising of staff and contractors

About Shandong Hengyuan Petrochemical Company Limited 

Established in 1970, Shandong Hengyuan Petrochemical Company Limited (SHPC) is a state-owned enterprise based in Linyi County, Shandong Province, China. SHPC develops, produces, processes, and markets diesel oil, liquefied gas, propylene, propane, polypropylene, tert-butyl alcohol, oil slurry, asphalt, tert-pentene, ethybenzene, and other petroleum related products. SHPC has total assets of 4 billion Yuan (approx. USD582.53 million) and employs 1,700 employees. SPHC is one of the Top 100 Leading Enterprises in Shandong and one of the Top 500 Chinese Chemical Enterprises. The Group has garnered multiple accolades over the years and its Chairman and General Manager, Wang Youde, has also received recognition including ‘One of Ten Outstanding Entrepreneurs in Shandong Province’ and ‘Outstanding People Award of National Advancements in Productivity’, amongst others.
 
Issued for and on behalf of
HENGYUAN REFINING COMPANY BERHAD
by Aquilas Advisory (Malaysia) Sdn Bhd.
 
SOURCE : HENGYUAN REFINING COMPANY BERHAD

Japan's prestigious hotel renovates 13 universal design guests rooms

 

KUALA LUMPUR, July 4 (Bernama) -- Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo (KPH) -- a prestigious international hotel in Shinjuku, Tokyo -- will renovate 10 of its universal design guest rooms and add three new luxury type universal design rooms to be reopened in middle of December 2018.

A total of JPY400 million or RM 14.67 million will be spent on the renovation of these 13 universal design rooms and four other general guest rooms on the 30th floor. (JPY1 = RM 0.037)

The renovation was made to raise the design and functionality of these rooms as part of KPH's long track record of industry leading efforts to provide easier access to a wide range of customers, a statement said.

The current round of renovations is part of the KPH's policy of offering higher levels of satisfaction to customers with varying medical and other special needs who also seek elegant accommodation.

The renovations will also expand the size of bathrooms and add new furniture with greater functionality including special lighting systems with visual impairments and other special features for guests with hearing impairments.

The Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo has led the hotel industry with its various efforts to provide guests with universal design facilities and services since 1988. More information at https://www.keioplaza.com.

-- BERNAMA 

AXA Malaysia continues committing to corporate responsibility

KUALA LUMPUR, July 3 (Bernama) -- AXA Malaysia recently organised Corporate Responsibility Week (CR Week) for the eighth consecutive year, as part of its efforts to give back to the community.

The annual initiative reinforces the company's commitment to empowering lives and helping to build a more sustainable society.

The theme this year is 'Corporate Responsibility in Action' for AXA Malaysia to raise awareness and advocate the importance of health, wellness, education and social welfare among its staff and community.

AXA Affin Life Insurance Berhad chief executive officer, Rohit Nambiar said: "We at AXA Malaysia, recognise that a healthy and sustainable society is critically important to our community, economy, business and people.

"This CR week is a great avenue for us, as a corporate, to engage our staff to contribute to a good cause and help the underserved community.

"We believe the long-term success of AXA Malaysia contributes to the health and well-being of society in general."

Various activities advocating different causes were held from June 25 to 29, such as healthy sushi-making class, cancer awareness campaign, blood donation and pre-loved sale where funds raised were used to improve students' classroom in Sekolah Kebangsaan Seri Delima.

To share the true spirit of Raya, AXA Malaysia invited children from Pusat Aktiviti Kanak-Kanak (PAKK) to its head office in Kuala Lumpur for a celebration filled with fun, festivity and activities. The employees also collected a generous donation of groceries and household essentials worth RM12,820 for PAKK.

AXA Malaysia also gave out RM50,000 in donations to five non-governmental organisations - The National Kidney Foundation, National Cancer Society Malaysia, Yayasan Jantung Malaysia, World Vision and WWF Malaysia.

AXA Malaysia promotes corporate responsibility as a continuous, year-long agenda. In conjunction with CR Week 2018, AXA Affin General Insurance Berhad (AAGI) introduced Employee Social Responsibility Leave to encourage employees to participate in local charities and good causes beyond the CR Week.

AAGI employees are allocated two days in a year to join volunteering activities of their preference, without utilising their annual leave.

AAGI human resources chief, Mohd Syukri Ahmad Sudari said: "The launch of Employee Social Responsibility Leave is yet another feature of our commitment to championing innovative initiatives that serve to empower people's lives, starting internally with our employees."

CR Week is a global initiative involving all of AXA's employees worldwide. Held in association with AXA Hearts In Action, it strives to empower employees around the world to act upon corporate responsibility as part of their day-to-day life.

Last year, more than 60,000 employees participated during the week in volunteering and fund-raising activities.

-- BERNAMA

LIMELIGHT NETWORKS' "STATE OF DIGITAL LIFESTYLES" REPORT SHOWS MORE THAN HALF OF SINGAPOREAN CONSUMERS COULD NOT GIVE UP MOBILE PHONES FOR ONE DAY

Consumers increasingly depend on technology and say it has positively impacted their lives

SINGAPORE, July 2 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Consumers in Singapore increasingly depend on internet-connected devices, with 83 percent reporting digital technology has made a positive impact on their lives. According to the new “State of Digital Lifestyles” report from Limelight Networks(Nasdaq: LLNW), a global leader in digital content delivery, mobile phones have become such an integral part of daily life that more than half of Singaporean consumers surveyed say they could not go a single day without them.

Respondents in ten countries were asked how they interact with digital media and the impact of technology in their lives. When asked how long they could part with their favorite digital devices, 48 percent of global consumers and 58 percent of consumers in Singapore reported they would not be able to stop using their mobile phones for even one day. Desktop computers and laptops were the second most integral technology, with 36 percent of Singaporean respondents reporting they could not go a day without theirs.

Consumers have yet to widely embrace digital assistants such as Amazon Echo and Google Home. In Singapore, only 14 percent currently own one of the devices, 5 per cent below the global average of 19 per cent. The main hurdle to adoption is that only 35 percent of Singaporean consumers fully trust digital assistants to provide general information such as weather, news and research. Less than one-third (28 percent) fully trust digital assistants for online shopping, and just 24 percent trust them for home automation.

Additional insights from the report include:

• Security concerns were highest among Singaporeans when using internet-connected devices. Globally, Singaporean consumers have expressed the most concerns over security and possible hacking into digital assistants (51 percent), security devices (51 percent), home automation products (42 percent) as well as health and fitness trackers (30 percent).
• Entertainment has gone digital, with streaming as the preferred method of accessing multimedia content. In Singapore, 48 percent prefer to stream music, while 64 percent of consumers prefer to stream movies and television shows online rather than downloading or using DVDs, more than any other country in Asia.
• Yet, Singaporean consumers are least likely to pay to download or stream online content globally. Globally, consumers in South Korea, the U.K. and Germany are most willing to pay for content, but Singapore and Malaysia consumers are the least likely to pay. However, if they do pay for digital content, Singaporeans are more likely to pay for movies and TV shows (38 per cent) than any other digital content.

“Consumers have become increasingly dependent on digital technology in both their personal and professional lives for information, entertainment, and for greater convenience in their daily lives. But as consumers get access to more options and become more reliant on the information they get from these devices, expectations continue to rise,” said Jaheer Abbas, Regional Director, SE Asia and ANZ at Limelight Networks. “At Limelight, we look to continue developing innovative solutions to help businesses meet consumer demands for high-quality, responsive, and secure online experiences.”

The State of Digital Lifestyles report is based on responses from 5,000 consumers in France, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, the United Kingdom, and the United States age 18 and older who had downloaded software or streamed online video or music during the last month. The full report is available here. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32211