IWBI announces well portfolio participation

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 26 (Bernama) -- The International WELL Building Institute (IWBI) announced today the first participants in WELL Portfolio, a new streamlined pathway for WELL Certification of multiple new or existing buildings and tenant spaces in a single portfolio.

Released as part of the WELL v2  pilot, the latest iteration of the WELL Building Standard (WELL) is part of a suite of enhancements to WELL which addresses the growing demand across the building industry for a programme that helps owners, developers and tenants streamline and scale health and wellness upgrades in their real estate assets.

The addition of an early-phase review process enabling projects to seek the WELL D&O designation introduced in WELL v2 allows portfolio projects to move through the certification process in a more streamlined and systematic fashion across their asset base.

The WELL Portfolio Pathway encourages owners to treat achieving WELL as a journey and not a destination, and to make incremental improvements across their portfolios over time, a statement said.

Tenants, developers and investors from Europe, North America, Australia and Asia have expressed interest in pursuing the WELL Portfolio Pathway, having already used WELL for individual buildings, and are now looking to bring the same value and evidence-based performance to their portfolios.

IWBI is leading the global movement to transform buildings and communities in ways that help people thrive.

WELL is focused exclusively on the ways that buildings and communities, and everything in them, can improve our comfort, drive better choices and generally enhance -- not compromise -- our health and wellness.

For more information, visit https://www.wellcertified.com.

-- BERNAMA

EUROMONITOR INTERNATIONAL HOSTED FIRST CONFERENCE IN INDONESIA

SINGAPORE, Sept 25 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Global market research company Euromonitor International shared insights on how companies can tap into the Indonesian market at its first conference for Indonesia at Pullman Jakarta Central on September 25th. According to Euromonitor, Indonesia has the largest number of middle-class households amongst ASEAN countries, representing 30 percent of the households in 2018. Big cities in Sumatra will have the highest penetration of middle class households by 2030. “This fact offers a sizeable market potential for companies to tap into Indonesia,” says Adhitya Nugroho, research manager at Euromonitor. “Medan, Bandar Lampung and Padang will be the top three big cities in Indonesia, with almost 50 percent of its population enjoying annual incomes between USD10,000 to USD25,000,” he added. Travel is set to be one of the fastest growing category in the country, increasing by 49.2 percent by 2023. Led by the millennials that are more inclined to spend on travel than other demographics, the will of spending on convenience and experience is marking an unprecedented growth in travel in Indonesia. Furthermore, the smartphone penetration that reached 142 percent of households in 2017, is supporting the young generation to spend more on holidays planning. Celebrating its 20 years in South East Asia, Euromonitor is looking forward to sharing market insights to maximise business opportunities in a trendsetting region and country. To receive the presentations on Trends & Opportunities in Indonesia and the wider ASEAN region, please visit: https://bit.ly/2xk5HQU http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32785

MFPC honoured in Islamic Wealth Management at awards event, Sarajevo

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 28 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Financial Planning Council (MFPC) won the award in the Best Islamic Wealth Management Qualification category at the Global Islamic Finance Awards (GIFA) 2018, held in Sarajevo, Bosnia recently.

In its eighth year, the awards ceremony was officiated by President of Bosnia, Bakir Izetbegovic.

MFPC president, Michael Kok Fook On said: “It is a great honour to receive the Best Islamic Wealth Management Qualification 2018 for Shariah Registered Financial Planner. It goes to show our commitment in ensuring that the best quality of our programme is retained.

“To date, the council has partnered with various reputable international organisations in order to provide good financial planning education which is aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), SDG 4 and SDG 17. We hope the award can encourage us to promote the concepts of shariah financial planning to a wider pool of Malaysians.”

 MFPC has developed Shariah Registered Financial Planner as a practical programme for practitioners to equip themselves with takaful and Islamic financial planning knowledge in line with the national agenda to promote its advancement.

It is also to make Malaysia the Islamic financial centre in transactions and business based on shariah compliance.

-- BERNAMA

EASTSPRING DECLARES INCOME DISTRIBUTION FOR EASTSPRING INVESTMENTS DANA DINAMIK

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 26 (Bernama) –  Eastspring Investments Bhd has declared a gross income distribution of 0.0446 sen per unit for its Shariah-compliant unit trust fund, Eastspring Investments Dana Dinamik.

In a statement here today, it said all unitholders who have maintained their unit holdings in the fund as at Sept 25,  2017 will be entitled to the income distribution.

“At Eastspring Investments, we have a positive outlook on the Malaysian economy for the year driven by improved trade flows, domestic private consumption and rising capital expenditure.

“Overall, we think that the country's economic health is in good shape and market valuations are also inexpensive. We believe that there are still opportunities out there and good stock selection is the key to outperformance.” said Chief Investment Officer, Rudie Chan.

Eastspring Investments is one of the leading asset management companies in Malaysia in both institutional and retail, with over RM40 billion in assets under management in the country as at June 30, 2017.

-- BERNAMA

MINDOL seals deal with Abu Dhabi´s fund

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 (Bernama) -- Abu Dhabi Dubai STOB Series 22 Investment Limited Partnership (AbuDhabi22) and MINDOL Holdings Limited (MINDOL) have agreed for the former to get 33 per cent of cryptocurrency MINDOL (MIN) which MINDOL issued by Tender Offer (TOB).

Both companies chose TOB as strategic approach to make a purchase at a stable price as the acquisition price planned by AbuDhabi22 would be expected to significantly exceed with purchases via regular exchanges.

A statement said that currently, the TOB Stage 1 has finished, while TOB is being implemented at the purchase price of TOB Stage 2.

The statement added that as a management vision of 2019, MINDOL has targeted a market capitalisation of within 20th place while cryptocurrencies of more than 2000 stocks are listed.

The company also set ‘Fusion of subculture and block chain’ as main business, and to develop an online game with a development budget of US$150 million (US$1=RM4.14).

Strong battles are expected to occur, as there is an opportunity for the winner to get MIN from the loser. In addition, the company is also planning to develop MINDOL exclusive wallet that can be used on smart phones, and use it for existing projects such as influencer vote and online game to be developed in the future.

There is also participation in movies, including Japanese anime, as a new media strategy. It plans to sponsor a Hollywood movie ‘TO DO & DIE’, scheduled to be cranked in 2019 and released worldwide in 2020.

A ‘MINDOL × TO DO & DIE World Audition 2019’ will be carried out from 2019, and selected performers from the audition are planning to shoot in Japan. More details on http://mindol.net.

-- BERNAMA

New software assists in digitising documents

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 (Bernama) --  Concord Technologies has launched NEXTSTEP, an AI-driven, cloud-based platform optimised for healthcare providers to simplify patient data capture and document workflows.

The new platform will reduce the effort required to capture, access and integrate patient health information from paper and digital documents.

The company, in a statement, said NEXSTEP’s platform is cloud-native, software-as-a-service, so it dramatically lowers the barriers to implementation and expansion.

Concord has optimised NEXTSTEP for healthcare providers struggling to digitise document-intensive clinical workflows, though its core features apply across all highly-regulated industries.

According to the statement, there are no upfront software or hardware costs and customers will always have the latest version of the software.

It is also built on scalable cloud architecture, so users can scale up and down to manage spikes in processing volume without having to purchase additional servers.

Unlike conventional systems, NEXTSTEP is pre-trained to identify, classify and extract specific, field-level data, so it saves providers the cost and effort to “teach” the system what to look for.

It also extends automated document classification and routing with the ability to coordinate document handling even with frequently-changing clinical processes.

“We estimate a sizeable market of providers who are being underserved by conventional document capture and automation solutions, due to the up-front costs of implementation and the ongoing resources to own them,” said John Harrison, Concord Technologies’ senior vice-president, sales & marketing.

The company is a leading provider of cloud fax services and document process automation solutions. More details at www.concord.net

-- BERNAMA

A.M. Best withdraws credit ratings of ECICS Limited

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 24 (Bernama) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of B++ (Good) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating (Long-Term ICR) of ‘bbb+’ of ECICS Limited (ECICS) (Singapore).

The outlook of the Singapore-based insurance company’s Long-Term ICR has been revised to negative from stable, while the FSR outlook remains stable.

Concurrently, A.M. Best has withdrawn the ratings of ECICS, as the company has requested to no longer participate in A.M. Best’s interactive rating process.

The global rating agency said in a statement that the ratings reflect ECICS’ balance sheet strength –  which it categorises as strong – as well as the company’s marginal operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate enterprise risk management.

The Long-Term ICR outlook revision to negative reflects A.M. Best’s concern with the heightened execution risk related to the ECICS’ plan to return to profitability by rebalancing its portfolio amid difficult market conditions.

More on www.ambest.com

--BERNAMA

European R&D Center in China upgraded

 

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 14 (Bernama) -- The European Research and Development Center – overseas research and development center with the highest specification in China – has been upgraded to European Innovation Center recently.

The announcement was made by the chief executive officer of Yili Group, Zhang Jianqiu. Yili Group and Wageningen University in the Netherlands jointly established the center in 2014.

Deputy secretary general of China Chamber of International Commerce, Zhang Yi said the center covered different fields, built bridges between countries and continents and integrated different cultures, which can be used to not only satisfy technological demand of the enterprises, but also directly transfer innovation of the research institute.

Yi added the center can be regarded as an excellent example of non-governmental cooperation between China and foreign countries – setting a new benchmark for the development of the enterprises under the situation of world economic integration in the future.

In the ‘List of World Top-20 Enterprises in the Global Dairy Industry’ issued by RABOBANK, Yili listed among the top ten in the global dairy industry and first rank in Asia for many years.

Chief executive officer of Wageningen University, Fresco said: "Wageningen University is one of the best agricultural universities in the world and Yili is the biggest dairy company in Asia.

“The collaboration between Wageningen University and Yili is not only beneficial for the Chinese market, but more importantly, for the global market,” added Fresco.

In recent years, innovation has been regarded by Yili as the ‘core’ power for the development of the enterprise; different ways of innovation have been established for the primary, secondary and tertiary industry in the industry chain; multiple innovation institutions have been established at home and abroad for the organization structure, in order to coordinate global wisdom and plan for the future, a statement said.  

-- BERNAMA

Bombardier delivers first 90-seat Q400 aircraft to SpiceJet

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 24 (Bernama) -- Bombardier Commercial Aircraft has delivered its first 90-seat Q400 aircraft to India’s SpiceJet Ltd (SpiceJet), the launch operator for the extra-capacity, 90-seat aircraft.

“This is a very important milestone for the Q400 aircraft programme because the 90-seat option demonstrates the increased profitability potential that this unique turboprop has to offer,” said Senior Vice-President of Commercial for Bombardier Commercial Aircraft, Colin Bole.

“The increased passenger capacity allows 15 per cent reduction of seat cost compared to the previous standard Q400 aircraft and provides an enormous benefit for airlines,” added Bole.

Meanwhile, chairman and managing director of SpiceJet, Ajay Singh, said the additional seats and performance improvements will result in substantial reduction in unit costs and will also enable the company to address its market needs in the regional space.

The delivery of the first 90-seat Q400 aircraft showcases the commitment of Bombardier’s Q Series turboprop programme to respond to customer requirements as the company address traffic growth in regional markets, a statement said.

Headquartered in Montreal, Canada, Bombardier is a global leader in the transportation industry, creating innovative and game-changing planes and trains. More details on www.bombardier.com.

-- BERNAMA

​KANSAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT REOPENS AFTER TYPHOON DAMAGE

New Online Video produced by KANSAI Tourism Bureau Welcomes Travelers Back after Airport's Rapid Recovery

OSAKA, Japan, Sept 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The KANSAI Tourism Bureau today released an online video aimed at domestic and international travelers, informing them that as of Friday September 21, Kansai International Airport has recovered most of its operational functions following significant damage in early September by Typhoon 21, which shut down the airport and significantly reduced inbound tourism to the region.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here:https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180921005195/en/

Typhoon 21 struck the Kansai area on September 4, causing unprecedented disruption to the Kansai region, including Kansai International Airport. Runways were flooded, and some power facilities and bridges were damaged, severely crippling operations. But service is now restored to pre-disaster levels, thanks to the immense support of all those involved.
 

The KANSAI Tourism Bureau joins various economic and tourist organizations and local governments in the Kansai area in supporting measures for the promotion of tourism-related activities. The video informs travelers to Kansai from the rest of Asia about the recovery of Kansai International Airport. Now that the airport has resumed normal operations, Chairman Masayoshi Matsumoto and the rest of the KANSAI Tourism Bureau look forward to welcoming visitors to Kansai once more.

Watch the video here:
http://welcomekansai.net/
https://youtu.be/HvvQhIcudn4

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20180921005195/en/

Contact

For further information, please contact:
KANSAI Tourism Bureau
Munehisa Kuwahara / Shuichi Tsuboi, +81-6-6223-7200
tsuboi-shuichi@kansai.gr.jp
http://kansai.gr.jp/
Address: Osaka Nakanoshima Bldg. 7F 2-2-2 Nakanoshima, Kita-ku, Osaka 530-0005

Source : KANSAI Tourism Bureau

--BERNAMA

HARD ROCK CAFE TO OPEN AT DXB WITH GREAT MUSIC, DELICIOUS FOOD AND ICONIC APPAREL

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates, Sept 20 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Dubai Airports has finalised an agreement with Hard Rock International and their regional franchise partners that will see the former launch its first Hard Rock Cafe, opening early November in DXB’s Concourse B. The new location will feature a licensed restaurant, grab and go food, live entertainment, rock memorabilia and a Rock Shop loaded with its world-famous merchandise.

Hard Rock International is one of the world's most globally recognised brands, famous for its collectible fashion and music-related merchandise, memorable dining experiences and live music performances which will complement Dubai Airports’ very own musicDXB programme.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32734

WESTERN UNION ANNOUNCES RELIEF FOLLOWING TYPHOON MANGKHUT

DENVER, Sept 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- To support communities most affected by Typhoon Mangkhut in the Philippines, Western Union, a leader in cross-border, cross-currency money movement, today announces a multi-faceted response to provide relief. In total, contributions from Western Union, the Western Union Foundation, Agents and employees through this comprehensive effort could total up to USD $275,000.

“Flooding and landslides from the typhoon have caused significant damage and loss of life,” Vice President and Head of the Western Union Foundation, Elizabeth Roscoe said. “As an organization, we are committed to supporting immediate relief and sustainable rebuilding for communities in crisis. Over the coming weeks we will work with Western Union Agents, employees and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies to help the communities recover.”

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32722

ContentWise boosts SK Broadband´s multimedia entertainment services

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 14 (Bernama) -- ContentWise Inc has been selected by SK Broadband to provide the personalization and UX automation software for its newly re-architected multimedia entertainment services.

Fifty-eight per cent of SK Broadband monthly movie premier service are generated through ContentWise and the number of B tv’s movie viewing events per subs has increased by 24 per cent after implementing ContentWise-powered recommendations.

Based in Korea, SK Broadband is the leading broadband and multimedia entertainment provider while ContentWise is the TV UX automation, personalization, analytics and metadata experts.

Chief Executive Officer of ContentWise, Paolo Bozzola said: “They have reframed their entire entertainment services strategy around the viewer, which is 100 per cent in line with our vision and mission as a technology vendor.”

While Vice President of Head of Media Business HQ at SK Broadband, Chang Wan You, said SK Broadband ultimately wants to deliver 4.6 million different home pages to each of 4.6 million customers of B tv.

For the first time in IPTV, SK Broadband has made it possible for customers to choose their favorite viewing style. When customers turn on B tv, they will engage in a completely different experience based on the fact that they have selected – a household profile, a VOD live profile or a Kids profile.

After the initial setup, all user experience, including menu configuration, recommended content and events are customized according to the customer's viewing history and behavior.

The ContentWise’s software powers personalized recommendations, intelligent search and content selections based on a viewer’s profile and preferences.

ContentWise also helps SK Broadband’s editorial staff manage and validate complex editorial strategies at scale. With these tools, the service evolves continuously to improve the user experience and the performance of content personalization.

More details on https://www.contentwise.tv/

-- BERNAMA

TELEDYNE DALSA EXPANDS ITS AREA CAMERA SERIES WITH THE INDUSTRY'S FIRST 5 GIGABIT, GIGE VISION MODELS

WATERLOO, Ontario, Sept 19 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Teledyne DALSA, a Teledyne Technologies company and global leader in machine vision technology, is pleased to introduce its newest Genie Nano cameras with eight new monochrome and color models built around the industry’s best performing SONY® image sensors. These industry-first 5-Gigabit GigE Vision cameras feature resolutions from 3.2Mpixels to 12Mpixels with more models to follow before the end of the year – including a 5Mpixel Polarized model.

Engineered for imaging applications that require high-speed data transfer, these new Nano models are an easy replacement for cameras built into current vision systems that rely on the existing GigE vision interface standard. These new Genie Nano models feature the brand new 5GBASE-T link speed.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32707

Mobile Medical Outreach Van For Schools, Colleges And Community Centres

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 (Bernama) -- To create awareness among Malaysians on high blood pressure, high cholesterol and high sugar – the three highs -- Fusionex is lending its support to the Mobile Medical Wellness Awareness Outreach Program.

Under the programme a Mobile Medical Outreach van will be visiting schools, colleges, malls and community centers from November. Fusionex is the main partner and sponsor for the program, a statement said. 

Fusionex Founder and Group Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Seri Ivan Teh said: “We hope that the public will take full advantage of the education opportunities as well as free medical tests to improve the quality of life in their families and communities.

 “We are delighted to be a part of this amazing outreach program led by the Rotary Club and look forward to making this a resounding success. We hope that with Fusionex’s support towards this noble Rotary Club-led initiative, Malaysians will be able to live healthier and better,” he said.

Rotary Club of Kuala Lumpur DiRaja president, Datuk Seri Nelson Kwok launching the program recently said: “The National Health and Morbidity Survey showed 17.5 per cent of those aged 18 and above have diabetes and almost half of the population, or about 9.6 million people, have high blood or high cholesterol levels.

“It is very worrying that more than half the population has diabetes and hypertension, and four out of five people with high blood cholesterol levels are unaware of their condition,” he added.

An art competition will also be organized in January, targeting the younger generation in schools and colleges -- the program aims to reach 50,000 and impact 500,000 Malaysians.

The program is slated to be launched internationally next March with the participation of seven sister clubs.

Fusionex is an established data technology provider specializing in Analytics, Big Data, the Internet of Things, Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence. Its offerings are focused on helping clients unlock the value and derive insights from data.

-- BERNAMA

Kyriba launches new lease accounting solutions for financial executives

 

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 12 (Bernama) -- Kyriba Corp. has launched a new lease accounting solution, enabling accounting teams, corporate treasurers, CFOs and other senior financial executives to better mitigate risk through the centralised tracking of all corporate leases.

“Combined with recently announced capabilities for real-time fraud detection, advanced hedge accounting, multi-lateral netting and cash management, the development of the lease accounting solution demonstrates Kyriba’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of senior finance leaders,” said vice-president of Strategy at Kyriba, Bob Stark.

Kyriba’s new module allows for rapid consolidation of lease data, auditable workflows and automated calculations to simplify ongoing compliance overhead.

It also can be subscribed separately or in conjunction with award-winning capabilities for cash and risk management, payments and working capital, a statement said.

Key features of the new module include data exchange import and/or copy and paste from Excel, document attachment for full visibility and auditability of lease details, automatic calculation and reporting of values for asset, liability and depreciation and others.

Kyriba is a global provider of cloud treasury and financial management solutions. The company is also the first treasury management vendor to offer lease accounting functionality as part of an integrated platform. More details at www.kyriba.com.

-- BERNAMA

Inaugural EMPC gathers education industry players

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 20 (Bernama) –   Education Malaysia Global Services (EMGS) is hosting the three-day Education Malaysia Partner Conference (EMPC), beginning yesterday, at the Palace of the Golden Horses Hotel, here.

EMGS in a statement today said the EMPC included pre-scheduled one-to-one business matching meetings between Malaysian education providers and student recruitment agencies.

The institutions are able to meet several agents in a rotating-meeting system, which is generally 15 to 20 minutes long for each meeting based on the timetable set. Specially tailored to the need of industrial players, this session is not open to the public and students.

The EMPC also consists of several seminars and workshops, a welcoming cocktail, meetings, a gala dinner, and several familiarisation tours.

EMGS chief executive officer, Datuk Dr Rujhan Mustafa said: “This is the very first event to be organised in Malaysia to help promote Malaysia’s educational institutions worldwide.

“Our workshop programme is the most comprehensive and cost-effective way to forming effective partnerships between the participants and to brief our counterparts on our industry developments.

“It is also a good platform to share new ideas among the participants and for future business collaborations.”

Some programmes that are specific in the nature of recruitment of international students in Malaysia are also organised for the benefit of all participants.

For information on studying in Malaysia, visit www.educationmalaysia.gov.my.

-- BERNAMA

MESINIAGA WORKFORCE+ HAS MANY PLUSES FOR EMPLOYERS

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 (Bernama) – Not long ago, Mesiniaga Bhd (Mesiniaga) launched Workforce+ (WF+), Malaysia’s first mobile Internet-based productivity optimisation tool which allows organisations to manage mobile workers efficiently.

In a statement today, Mesiniaga said WF+ currently assists more than 1,000 mobile workers in Malaysia and has been recognised at ITEX 2015 and the Malaysia Digital Business Awards 2016 for its innovative features.

WF+ is ideal for organisations that utilise mobile workers to deliver products or services across a huge geographical area on a daily basis such as sales agents, maintenance workers on standby for repair requests, logistics personnel who have to deliver packages and enforcement officers who need to visit many locations to conduct spot checks, inspections and report cases.

Taking advantage of WF+ will place organisations firmly on the road to improved productivity as it provides an unparalled layer of visibility into the day-to-day operations where it ensures the experience and intelligence from the field is communicated back to the office in a timely manner, thereby reducing paperwork.

“Helping customers succeed is our mission and we are committed to supporting them in their digital transformation journey, as well as to ensure the highest productivity level of mobile workers through digitalisation and automation,” said Mesiniaga products and solutions general manager, Eric Foo.

WF+ is hosted on a Mesiniaga-managed private cloud using a “pay per use” subscription model, therefore enabling hassle-free and fast deployment without any on-premise IT setup or upfront CAPEX investment.

Mesiniaga is one of Malaysia’s leading ICT solutions providers and integrators. Established in 1981, Mesiniaga provides end-to-end IT solutions and services supported by many internationally-renowned technology companies.

-- BERNAMA 

2018 CHINA WULONG INTERNATIONAL MOUNTAIN OUTDOOR SPORTS OPEN BEGINS

CHONGQING, China, Sept. 18, 2018 /Xinhua-AsiaNet/--

On September 17, 2018 China Wulong International Mountain Outdoor Sports Open kicked off in Wulong District, Chongqing City.

According to the Publicity Department of Wulong District Committee of Chongqing Municipality, as an important attempt of Wulong District at the integrated development of "tourism+sports+culture", this year's tournament with a theme of "Healthy China, Chongqing of Mountains and Rivers, Beautiful Wulong".

The event includes the cross-country race, high-shelf carrying, mountain bike, canoeing, single rope ascent, open water swimming and so on. 29 teams from home and abroad will compete in Three Natural Bridges, Fairy Mountain, Baima Mountain, Furong Cave and other beautiful scenic spots.

This year's tournament will last until September 20th.

Source: The Publicity Department of Wulong District Committee of Chongqing Municipality

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32704

​NODLE.IO RAISES $1.5M SEED FUNDING TO BRING IOT CRYPTOCURRENCY TO APP DEVELOPERS

SAN FRANCISCO, Sept 14 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nodle.io, an Internet of Things (IoT) and connectivity network provider, today announced a $1.5 million seed round and the launch of a new cryptocurrency for monetizing IoT connections, applications and data. Nodle.io provides internet connectivity to IoT devices by crowdsourcing a network of smartphones. Currently over 1 million devices are connecting to the Nodle Citizen Network every day. This is the largest dedicated IoT network ever deployed to date, by number of base stations.

Blockchange Ventures led the investment round with participation from Blockhead Capital, Bootstraplabs, Olymp Capital, Mark Pincus with Work Play Ventures and Yeoman's Capital.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32684

Conference in Shenyang China highlights smart cities and green development

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 14 (Bernama) -- The 18th World Winter Cities Association for Mayors Conference ( WWCAM Conference) held recently in Shenyang, China themed "winter city, better life” probed into the  construction and green development of smart cities.

The representatives agreed to strengthen communication with Shenyang to develop international cultural tourism industry projects, share experiences and achievement of precise urban planning, delicate development and lean management.

The conference attended by 41 city groups and 52 chamber of commerce groups from 30 countries also agreed to innovate and promote the exchanges and cooperation among winter cities so as to solve development problems around the world.

Since the first WWCAM Conference held in Sapporo, Japan in 1982, the conference has injected new vitality into the exchanges among cities in the world.

Director of Salt Lake City's Economic Development Department, Lara Fritts said Salt Lake city plans to use 100 per cent renewable energy for community electricity support and reduces 80 per cent of greenhouse gases by 2040, allowing every citizen to enjoy fresh air in cold winter.

The plans are supported by Shenyang government to cooperate and transform from coal-based to renewable energy source inspired by the department’s Resources Plan, a statement from Shenyang Municipal Government said.

Fifteen representatives from Japan, South Korea, Canada and France introduced their cities' experiences and achievements besides gave related suggestions to building new smart cities with higher quality and efficiency as well as to develop green cities with more sustainable development.

Business associations from 18 countries and 60 related enterprises also attended the Winter Cities Business Cooperation Meeting which conducted one-to-one project connections on tourism, IT, environmental protection and other fields.

-- BERNAMA

Partnership to offer world´s most powerful FPGA cryptocurrency mining hardware

 

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 12 (Bernama) -- Squirrels Research Labs (SQRL) has partnered with BittWare -- a Molex company and provider of high-performance computer boards -- to offer  the BittWare CVP-13, world’s most powerful FPGA cryptocurrency mining hardware.

The CVP-13 uses the largest Virtex UltraScale+ FPGA chip available from Xilinx Inc. It provides the most processing power of any FPGA cryptocurrency mining card available with 46 per cent more logic, 31 per cent more on-chip memory and a 66 per cent larger power supply than other  boards that uses the Xilinx VU9P FPGA chip.

The CVP-13 uses a 300 ampere power supply, allowing users to maximise the potential of the VU13P FPGA chip on the board. Similar hardware in the market requires tuning that pulls more power than the hardware is rated for causing efficiency losses, a statement said.

Its factory-designed and installed Viper cooling options include liquid cooling to increase efficiency. In addition to cooler and more efficient performance, the increased amount of on-chip logic allows larger algorithms to fit that are not available on other hardware.

BittWare CVP-13 FPGA boards are available for purchase now through SQRL with deliveries expected in November. Hosted CVP-13 hardware is also available through The Mineority Group. Both options can be purchased at http://store.mineority.io.

Squirrels Research Labs is a research and development division of Squirrels LLC focuses time on projects that keep Squirrels forward thinking and adaptable in competitive markets. More details at http://squirrelsresearch.com or www.BittWare.com.

-- BERNAMA

MPM HOLDINGS INC. ENTERS INTO AGREEMENT TO BE ACQUIRED BY INVESTOR GROUP CONSISTING OF SJL PARTNERS, KCC CORPORATION AND WONIK QNC CORPORATION

WATERFORD, N.Y. & SEOUL, South Korea, Sept 13 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- MPM Holdings Inc. (“Momentive” or the “Company”) (OTCQX:MPMQ), a global silicones and advanced materials company, and SJL Partners LLC (“SJL”), KCC Corporation (KS:002380) (“KCC”) and Wonik QnC Corporation (KOSDAQ:074600) (“Wonik”) (collectively, the “Investor Group”), today announced that they have entered into a definitive merger agreement whereby the Investor Group will acquire Momentive in a transaction valued at approximately $3.1 billion, including the assumption of net debt, pension and OPEB liabilities.

Based in Waterford, New York, Momentive develops and manufactures specialty silicones and silanes, as well as fused quartz and specialty ceramics products. Momentive has a more than 75-year track record of creating products and solutions to serve more than 4,000 customers in over 100 countries. The Company has a global network of 24 production sites and 12 research and development facilities.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32677

Konica Minolta implements robotics solution for electronics manufacturing technology provider

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 13 (Bernama) -- Konica Minolta Business Solutions Asia (BSA) received a contract to implement robotic solutions for a leading electronics manufacturing technology provider to advance their digital transformation.

Konica Minolta BSA is regional headquarters of Konica Minolta Inc based in Singapore.

Director and General Manager of Konica Minolta BSA, Jonathan Yeo said they support Singapore’s move towards Industrial 4.0 and becoming a smart nation by offering solutions that promote operational agility.

He said the robotics solutions allow companies to automate production processes to provide a safer and more efficient workplace.

The company said in a statement the autonomous robots designed for internal transportation and logistics enable businesses to optimise their processes within the manufacturing floor across the supply chain through technology innovation.

The solution created efficiencies by eliminating bottlenecks across the material flow process, improving the throughput through better management of production capacity.

By transforming the delivery process, staff can focus on higher value activities and enjoy reduced exposure to injury-prone tasks.

With the robotics solution, the leading electronics manufacturing technology provider can focus more on safety, efficiency and reliability in their operations, ensuring the highest quality manufactured products.

Konica Minolta BSA is transforming the future workplace with its customer-centric solutions and hardware for the digitally connected world. More details on https://www.konicaminolta.sg/business/

-- BERNAMA

Cisco Systems adds new capabilities to its intent-based networking platform

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 12 (Bernama) – Cisco Systems Inc is focused on creating networks that anticipate and respond to customer needs and shifting market conditions in real time, based on closed-loop automation and advanced analytics capabilities.

Cisco is unveiling continued innovation for its flagship service provider edge routing platform to support its customers’ business transitions, offering more flexibility with new licensing models to purchase capacity on demand.

Service providers are experiencing disruptive growth and change that require new approaches to more efficiently build and cost-effectively manage critical IP networking infrastructure.

It is expected that 5G connections will explode from 2.3 million in 2020 to more than 25 million in 2021 while multicloud services are accelerating, driven by shifts in content, compute and cloud requirements, a statement said.

More than 4,500 service provider, enterprise and public sector customers around the world have relied on the Cisco ASR 9000 edge routing platform to manage and deliver billions of connections over their networks.

Customers no longer have to forecast capacity and purchase licenses on a site-by-site basis. Licenses can be dynamically allocated as across global networks, optimising capex spend and simplifying capacity planning with a full network view.

Powered by Cisco IOS XR software, the ASR 9000 is automation ready whereby service providers can now take advantage of the Cisco Crosswork Network Automation portfolio to embraces multi-vendor networks.

Cisco is leading the disruption in the industry with its technology innovations in systems, silicon, optics and security. The company enable service providers, media and web companies to reduce cost and complexity, secure their networks and grow revenue. More at newsroom.cisco.com.

-- BERNAMA

XRESEARCH (XRES), A CRYPTO INVESTMENT RESEARCH FUND AND MEDIA PLATFORM, ANNOUNCES TOKEN HOLDER EQUITY AND REGULATION S ICO IN Q4 2018

NEW YORK, Sept 12 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- XResearch (XRES), a cryptocurrency, blockchain startup, and ICO investment research fund and media portal, has just announced that its Regulation S* securities token offering (STO) will begin in Q4 2018.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32659

SONOS RELEASES THIRD FISCAL QUARTER 2018 FINANCIAL RESULTS

SANTA BARBARA, Calif., Sept 12 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sonos, Inc. (“Sonos”) (Nasdaq: SONO) has released its financial results for the third fiscal quarter 2018 in a letter to shareholders available on the investor relations section of its website. To view the letter, please visit: https://investors.sonos.com/investors/default.aspx

As previously announced, Sonos will host a conference call and Q&A to discuss the results at 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time today. A live webcast and replay of the conference call and Q&A will be accessible at: https://investors.sonos.com/news-and-events/default.aspx. The replay will be available for at least one year following completion of the call.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32658

BIMAN SIGNS ORDER FOR THREE NEW BOMBARDIER Q400 AIRCRAFT

TORONTO, Sept 12 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bombardier Commercial Aircraft announced today that Biman Bangladesh Airlines Ltd. has ordered three new Q400 turboprops by signing a purchase agreement with the Canadian Commercial Corporation (CCC).

Based on the list price of the Q400 aircraft, the firm order is valued at approximately US$106 million.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32653

ALIBABA GROUP ANNOUNCES EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN SUCCESSION PLAN

HANGZHOU, China, Sept 12 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Alibaba Group Holding Limited (NYSE: BABA) today announced that one year from today, September 10, 2019, chief executive officer Daniel Zhang will succeed Jack Ma as chairman of the board of Alibaba Group. Mr. Ma will continue as executive chairman of the company over the next 12 months to ensure a smooth transition of the chairmanship to Mr. Zhang.

Mr. Ma will complete his current term as a member of Alibaba Group’s board of directors until its annual general meeting of shareholders in 2020.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32647

OLYMPIC CHAMPIONS GAVE RED BEACH THUMB UP FOR ITS BEAUTIFUL WETLANDS

PANJIN, China, Sept 7 (Bernama) -- 

 

Recently, Olympic champions of Liaoning province, who participated in the 13th games of Liaoning province, visited the Red Beach National Scenic Corridor and marveled at its spectacular, according to Panjin Red Beach Wetland Resort Administrative Committee. In the ticket hall, judo champion Sun Fuming, Yuan Hua, volleyball champion Liu Yanan, rowing double pulp champion Tang Bin, wrestling champion Wang Jiao and epee champion Sun Yujie took group photos with visitors and signed for them enthusiastically. Olympic champions inscribed for the Red Beach National Scenic Corridor and visited the sightseeing bus. Newly named "Olympic champion", this bus is decorated with the mascot pattern of 13th games of Liaoning province, and will be operated in the scenic area. The Olympic champions took photos at the core scenic spot, where they were charmed by the stunning scenery and praised the beautiful wetlands and spectacular red beach. Red beach is a treasure to human beings that given by nature. All the scenic spots are consisted by ecological resources, such as red beach, green reed and wetland. The Red Beach National Scenic Corridor is known as the "red coastline of the world", also known as "China's most wonderful leisure corridor" and "China's most romantic tourist coastline". Pioneer plant herb of salvia and green reed marshes are the main constituent elements of the Red Beach National Scenic Corridor. In April every year, salvia starts to sprout, reproduce and grow rapidly. With the change of seasons, salvia is growing from pink to flaming to magenta, which makes a magnificent picture of this tidal flat. Juxtaposed with red salvia are the world's largest reeds, with 1.23 million hectares. This large area of reeds not only adjust the climate, conserve water and form a good wetland ecological environment, but also provide a habitat for birds to inhabit, forage and reproduce. The reeds are home to 287 species of birds, where is the breeding ground of the black-billed gull, the most northern end of the wild red-crowned crane overwintering and the southernmost point of wild red-crowned crane breeding. There are white swan, egret, heron, white eyebrow duck, swan goose and spotted seals. This is the paradise of seabirds and the heaven of marine life. Source: Panjin Red Beach Wetland Resort Administrative Committee Image Attachments Links: http://asianetnews.net/view-attachment?attach-id=318800 --BERNAMA

New smart city innovations at Esri Malaysia User Conference

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 13 (Bernama) -- The 22nd Esri Malaysia User Conference, to be held on Oct 25 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, will bring together the country’s growing geospatial community to explore the latest advancements in location-based analytics technology.

Esri Malaysia, in a statement today, said Esri’s geospatial technology platform is a robust data management, analytics, collaboration and 3D visualisation platform that is recognised as a foundation technology for smart cities globally, including in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Iskandar (Johor Bahru).  

Esri Malaysia chief executive officer, CS Tan, said, “In addition to featuring presentations from regional technology experts and sharing global smart city best practices, the conference will also provide an insight into how Malaysian organisations are using cutting-edge location-based analytics technology to solve unique challenges in both public and commercial organisations.”  

The event also includes the announcement of the 2018 GeoInnovation Award winners, which recognises organisations for their creative use of geospatial technology to address real-world challenges in communities and organisations.

“This award also demonstrated to the world that Malaysia is fast becoming a global powerhouse for technical innovation,” said Tan.

The Esri Malaysia User Conference is an annual event and is the country’s longest-running geospatial conference. For full event details and to register, visit esrimalaysia.com.my/uc

-- BERNAMA 

PLF MERDEKA PHOTO CONTEST 2018

Two weeks more to enter PLF’s Merdeka Photo Contest 2018!

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 6 (Bernama) -- From 1st August-16th September 2018, Malaysian shutterbugs of all stripes are invited to enter Perdana Leadership Foundation’s Merdeka Photo Contest with the theme, “Saya Sayang Malaysia” (I love Malaysia).

Don’t miss out! Express your love for this country, and your pride as a Malaysian, through your photos and stand to win cash up to RM1,000.

Here’s how Malaysians can participate:

1. Register as a member of the Perdana Library
2. Follow @plfperdana on Instagram
3. Upload your photo entry to your own Instagram profile, and set your profile to ‘public’
4. Tag us @plfperdana, and hashtag the photo with #plfmerdeka2018
5. Tell us, in 50 words or less, why you love Malaysia. Captions can be in Bahasa Malaysia or English.

There is no limit to the number of entries each contestant can send, as long as they meet the criteria above. Winners will be announced on 28th September 2018!

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32627

​ATPCO AND BLOCKSKYE PROOF OF CONCEPT EXPLORES APPLICATION OF BLOCKCHAIN IN AIRLINE OFFER MANAGEMENT

DULLES, Va., Sept 5 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ATPCO and Blockskyetoday released a white paper describing the key features of blockchain and its applicability to airline distribution. In addition, the companies, along with SITA, announced a proof of concept (POC) on blockchain and how it could potentially be utilized in next-generation airline offer management. As part of this POC, ATPCO, Blockskye, and SITA are advancing a discussion on how the industry might create value for the market using decentralized airline offer generation based on International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) New Distribution Capability (NDC) and ONE Order initiatives. The concept would enable airline and channel partners to handle the exponentially increasing volumes of data accurately and securely. The POC leverages NDC Exchange, built by ATPCO and SITA, because it is a neutral platform that facilitates real-time connectivity, on SITA’s global IT infrastructure, between airlines and travel sellers so that they can exchange messages easily and cost-effectively.

As airlines and sellers deliver greater value and choice through NDC, it becomes increasingly important for offers to be consistently and accurately managed. NDC Exchange provides the ability to seamlessly integrate fulfilment and data sources from shopping through settlement across all actors in the value chain. The POC will explore augmenting NDC Exchange with blockchain technology, providing a trusted and secure offer authority that can reduce integration costs and transaction risk for airlines and sellers alike.

“Blockchain is an undeniable transformative force. With the support of Blockskye, we wanted to ask the question, ‘How could this technology be implemented to support the future-state airline distribution ecosystem, and where can ATPCO add industry value?’” said Head of ATPCO Research & Development Gianni Cataldo. “The concept of a persistent offer managed by a neutral authority addresses many of the coming challenges of direct distribution. We hope this paper spurs discussion on how technology can drive paradigm shifts and in turn lead to industry alignment,” he continued.

“The travel ecosystem has been searching for a way to engage NDC, build a dynamic marketplace, and empower airlines — blockchain changes the game on all of these,” said Blockskye CEO & Co-Founder Brook Armstrong.

For further information contact:

Michael Mazzocco
Corporate Communications Strategist
ATPCO
Office: +1 703 661 7503
Email: mmazzocco@atpco.net

Notes to Editors:

About ATPCO

Uniquely positioned at the center of the airline distribution ecosystem, ATPCO enables seamless management of the airfare data that makes our entire industry run more efficiently. We hold more than 189.6 million fares for 439 airlines in 160 countries and manage an average of 5.3 million daily fare changes. Because ATPCO is owned by airlines, we serve as a neutral and trusted partner for our airlines with travel agencies, search engines, global distribution systems, governments, and many other industry partners. Every day, these organizations rely on our thought leadership and portfolio of technology and data solutions to help millions of travelers get where they need to go. Learn more about us at atpco.net.
 
About Blockskye

Blockskye is the founding travel member of the Enterprise Ethereum Alliance. We develop on STRATO with BlockApps, the leading provider of enterprise solutions in Ethereum. Our solutions are custom, scalable, and designed for integration across the Ethereum ecosystem.

Source : ATPCO

--BERNAMA

JAPAN INSULATION RELEASES DAIPALITE-EA, INORGANIC THERMAL INSULATION MATERIAL RESISTANT TO HIGH TEMPERATURE

OSAKA, Japan, Sep. 5, 2018 /Kyodo JBN-AsiaNet/ --

- Environment-friendly, Utilizing Biomass as Raw Material and Fuel, and Yet Can Withstand Heat of 1,000 degrees Celsius -

JAPAN INSULATION CO., LTD. has released "DAIPALITE-EA," a thermal insulation material developed on the basis of the results of ODA-based cooperation research with Malaysia. By using rice husk ash as an alternative material for silica stone, it enables effective use of rice husk which cause environmental pollution by river dumping. Moreover, by utilizing the heat (biomass energy) generated when burning rice husk in the reaction and drying processes, carbon dioxide emissions can be greatly reduced.
 

(Photo1: https://www.jic-bestork.co.jp/modules/smartsection/item.php?itemid=465)
(Image1: https://www.jic-bestork.co.jp/modules/smartsection/item.php?itemid=466)

JAPAN INSULATION manufactures "DAIPALITE-EA" in An Giang Province, Vietnam. The "DAIPALITE" project was certified by the An Giang provincial government as an environment-friendly project for its carbon dioxide emission control effect which contributes to global environmental conservation.

The company's technology is registered with the Environmental Technology Database of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) Investment and Technology Promotion Office, Tokyo (ITPO Tokyo).

Environmental Technology Database:

http://www.unido.or.jp/en/activities/technology_transfer/technology_db/
(Image2: https://www.jic-bestork.co.jp/modules/smartsection/item.php?itemid=469)

Since "DAIPALITE-EA" is based on Xonotlite, with heat resistance to 1,000 degrees Celsius, it is used at places such as power plants and petrochemical plants for insulating equipment and pipes with high internal temperatures, thereby contributing to industrialization in developing countries. The product standards comply with ASTM. In addition, JAPAN INSULATION also manufactures "DAIPALITE-E," equivalent to JIS type products, in Vietnam.
 

(Photo2: https://www.jic-bestork.co.jp/modules/smartsection/item.php?itemid=467)
(Image3: https://www.jic-bestork.co.jp/modules/smartsection/item.php?itemid=468)

About JAPAN INSULATION CO., LTD.
The company manufactures and sells calcium silicate-type fireproof, non-combustible building materials and thermal insulation materials as well as designing them, and undertakes fireproof construction, design and construction of thermal insulation for industrial plants. The company was founded on April 8, 1914, and it has a history of more than 100 years. JIC VIETNAM ONE MEMBER CO., LTD., which manufactures "DAIPALITE-EA," is its wholly owned subsidiary.

Official website:
https://www.jic-bestork.co.jp/modules/smartsection/item.php?itemid=447

Source: JAPAN INSULATION CO., LTD.

--BERNAMA

Lithium Werks to build new R&D campus at Twente, Netherlands

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 4 (Bernama) -- An energy management company, Lithium Werks B.V. will build a 42 acre major clean energy research and development (R&D) campus at Twente Airport, Netherlands – for the development of a mobile battery ecosystem at Technology Base.

“In order to achieve a real transition, from fossil fuels to renewables, energy has to be available in the right place and at the right time,” said chairman of the board at Lithium Werks, Kees Koolen.

Koolen added that over the next five years, they will recruit 2,000 people to develop clean energy technologies at the campus.

More than EUR 100 million (RM479 million) has been invested in the development of the campus by various parties. Oost NL was the first to invest in the project, in line with its brief from local authorities to sustainably strengthen the economy of the Eastern region of the Netherlands. (1 EUR = RM4.79)

The Netherlands-based company said in a statement the first building at Technology Base is scheduled for completion by the end of 2019 – initially providing work for approximately 300 people to research new technologies in the field of clean energy.

Lithium Werks is a fast-growing global lithium ion battery company with production facilities in the Netherlands and China and offices in the USA, the Netherlands, Northern Ireland, Great Britain and Norway.

The company provides cells, modules and energy management systems to markets such as industrial, transportation, marine and renewable energy. More details on www.lithiumwerks.com

--BERNAMA

​LITHIUM WERKS AND SUPER B AGREE TO MERGE TO ENABLE GLOBAL ENERGY TRANSITION

HENGELO, The Netherlands, Sept 4 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Energy management company Lithium Werks (www.lithiumwerks.com), known for its Nanophosphate™ Cells and its smart lithium-ion modules, is merging with fellow lithium battery developer and producer Super B (www.super-b.com).

The new global company serves over 1,000 customers in nearly 50 countries and offers jobs to over 550 employees. With more than 400 patents for lithium technology, the company is a leading player when it comes to technical knowhow.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=32610

TIANJIN MARKS MARTIAL ARTIST HUO YUANJIA'S 150TH BIRTHDAY

TIANJIN, China, Sept 3 (Bernama) -- 
 

China's Tianjin Municipality marked the 150th birthday of famous martial artist Huo Yuanjia by holding a gathering of worldwide martial art masters with participants from over 30 countries and regions. With media coverage support from local publicity department, the event lasted from Aug. 13 to Aug. 15 and was held in local Chinese martial arts park in Xiqing District of Tianjin as well as in Huo Yuanjia Civil and Military School. The event featured a worship ceremony, an opening ceremony, martial arts competitions, martial arts shows, professional evaluation, martial arts cultural exchanges, the launch of Tianjin Chin Woo Athletic Federation Club, ribbon cutting of Chin Woo Hui restaurant, visits to Huo Yuanjia Memorial Hall and Huo Yuanjia Civil and Military School as well as watching a drama about the martial arts legend Huo Yuanjia. More than 600 athletes competed in 624 events including Chin Woo martial arts events, traditional martial arts events, martial arts competition routines and collective events. The event also set up a stage for performances of renowned martial arts masters of different schools, including flash sword, Tai Chi Mantis fan and Miao broadsword. Established on June 30, 1990, the Tianjin Chin Woo Athletic Federation has over 70 branches worldwide. The event aims to leverage the global influence of Huo Yuanjia and the club to strengthen local town's leading role as the birthplace of the Chin Woo culture. It will help display the city's profound history and culture as well as carrying forward the Chin Woo spirit to promote solidarity. Source: The Publicity Department of Xiqing District of Tianjin Municipality Image Attachments Links: http://asianetnews.net/view-attachment?attach-id=318403 --BERNAMA