Bitget Shifts Gears with Porsche Cup Brasil Sponsorship with Driver Flávio Sampaio

VICTORIA, Seychelles, March 27 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget, the leading global cryptocurrency exchange, is set to accelerate its presence in the motorsport world as the official sponsor of Driver Flávio Sampaio for the Porsche Cup Brasil 2025. The partnership, which kicks off with the season’s opening race in April 2025, symbolizes the convergence of the on-going financial evolution, and the adrenaline-fueled world of motorsport.

The collaboration sets Bitget with Porsche’s legacy of precision and speed, creating a partnership that resonates with both crypto enthusiasts and motorsport fans. The sponsorship of driver Flávio Sampaio in the 2025 Porsche Carrera Cup Brazil season is supported by Bitget's mission of bringing together sports and crypto.

The championship kicked off on March 22nd and 23rd at the Velocitta in Mogi Guaçu and will continue through November, with the final stage scheduled for the 8th and 9th in Interlagos, São Paulo. With its support for Flávio, Bitget becomes the first crypto exchange to participate in the competition and will have its own car in Latin America's largest Grand Touring category.

In the past, Bitget also had a successful partnership with Argentina's star Lionel Messi from 2022 to 2024 and previously sponsored Juventus’ women's football team in Italy. Currently, it also supports other major sports projects, such as Turkish athlete Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (world wrestling champion), Samet Gümüş (gold medalist in boxing), and İlkin Aydın (national volleyball team athlete).

Flávio Sampaio, commented on the partnership, saying, “I am very excited about this partnership with Bitget and hope to help spark interest among motorsport fans in the world of cryptocurrencies. The profile of sports fans often has similarities with that of crypto investors. I believe we can create an interesting connection between these two worlds.”

Flávio Sampaio began his career in karting at the age of 12 and competed in major state and national championships until 2001. In 2007, he was invited to participate in Stock Jr., the feeder category for Stock Car. In 2008, he joined ATW Racing in Stock Light. In 2010, he was invited to compete in the Mini Cooper Challenge category, and in 2014, he moved to the GT3 Challenge.

This partnership is a Porsche 911 GT3 Cup wrapped in Bitget’s signature black-and-cyan livery, embodying the exchange’s commitment to speed, reliability, and performance. With a roaring 510CV engine, the car serves as a metaphor for Bitget’s high-performance trading engine, designed to deliver unmatched efficiency and results.

“This partnership isn’t just about speed on the track—it’s about accelerating innovation in the crypto space,” said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget. “We find that Flavio's sportsmanship also dwells on the same principles that drive Bitget: strategy, adaptability, and high-performance execution. Aligning with a motorsport professional for a series known for its precision and competitiveness allows us to engage with an audience that values both technological advancement and calculated risk-taking.”

The Porsche Cup Brasil is the ideal setting for Bitget to engage with a discerning audience, since it draws Brazil's top motorsport aficionados and sports-centric enthusiasts. Among the unique experiences attendees will have is access to the Paddock Terrace, where timing screens and real-time race radios provide an immersive perspective of the action. Bitget's VIP visitors will also be able to meet drivers, tour the pit lane, and take part in Porsche Experience Rides where they will ride shotgun with professional drivers in Bitget-branded helmets.

Brazil is experiencing a notable surge in cryptocurrency adoption, with over 40 million users, which positions the country as a key market for Bitget’s expansion. By partnering with Driver Flávio Sampaio in the Porsche, Bitget strengthens its local presence and reinforces its global reputation as the top emerging crypto brand. The sponsorship shows Bitget’s ability to connect with diverse audiences, from crypto traders to motorsport enthusiasts, through shared values of innovation and performance.

As engines roar and markets surge, Bitget, and Porsche Cup Brasil are set to redefine what it means to blend speed with substance. This partnership merges excitement and anticipation, driving the future of finance and motorsport with Bitget set to lead.

About Bitget

Established in 2018, Bitget is the world's leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 100 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a world-class multi-chain crypto wallet that offers an array of comprehensive Web3 solutions and features including wallet functionality, token swap, NFT Marketplace, DApp browser, and more.

Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World's Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/aeb5ea1c-7b55-47c1-879e-64bebd0cae6d

SOURCE: Bitget Limited 

DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.

--BERNAMA 

Bitget Maintains 213% Reserve Ratio in March 2025 Proof-of-Reserves Update

VICTORIA, Seychelles, March 27 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget, the leading global cryptocurrency exchange, has released its latest proof-of-reserves report for March 2025, reaffirming its asset transparency and user fund security with a reserve ratio of 213%. The report, timestamped at 10:30 AM (UTC+8) on March 17, shows that the exchange holds more than double the users' total assets across BTC, ETH, USDT, and USDC.

The audit, supported by a 27-layer Merkle tree comprising over 37.8 million records, verifies that Bitget possesses sufficient assets to cover all user balances. This month's report highlights reserve ratios of 332% for BTC, 173% for USDT, 161% for ETH, and 198% for USDC, each significantly exceeding the 100% threshold required to meet user liabilities.

A reserve ratio exceeding 100% indicates that the platform holds more crypto assets in custody than its users collectively own, acting as a real-time solvency signal. The publication of this data follows increasing calls from both regulators and users for more frequent, mathematically verifiable disclosures from centralized exchanges.

By adopting cryptographic techniques such as the Merkle tree structure, Bitget enables users to independently verify their balances within the total liabilities without exposing personal account data. This method strengthens user trust by enabling public verification of platform solvency while preserving user privacy.

“Transparency must be consistent, not occasional. Exchanges carry an obligation to provide users with tools to verify that their funds are held securely and fully accounted for. Bitget’s latest reserve ratio is not just a metric—it’s a signal of operational clarity and a standard the industry should continuously uphold,” said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget.

As regulatory scrutiny intensifies and users become more discerning, frequent and transparent solvency proofs are becoming integral to the survival of centralized platforms. The latest data places Bitget ahead of many major exchanges in terms of capital buffers, offering a substantial margin of security in volatile market conditions.

With over 20,500 BTC, 197,500 ETH, 2 billion USDT, and 106 million USDC held in custody, Bitget’s holdings remain aligned with its broader objective to provide users with uninterrupted access to their digital assets. The latest Merkle root hash for March 2025—37a20f806f400dcd—can be used by users to confirm their account's inclusion in the reserve audit.

The March disclosure continues a monthly cycle of transparent reporting introduced by Bitget following industry-wide failures in 2022. With this sustained publication, the exchange reinforces its operational visibility and bolsters user confidence in custodial safety.

To view Bitget's Proof-of-Reserves, please visit here.

About Bitget

Established in 2018, Bitget is the world's leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 100 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a world-class multi-chain crypto wallet that offers an array of comprehensive Web3 solutions and features including wallet functionality, token swap, NFT Marketplace, DApp browser, and more.

Bitget is at the forefront of driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World's Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/0f1afe99-dee9-403a-a014-543d1c47fd84

SOURCE: Bitget Limited 

DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article.

--BERNAMA 

PETRONAS FUTURETECH 4.0 SEEKS INNOVATORS TO DRIVE THE FUTURE OF ENERGY

KUALA LUMPUR, March 26 (Bernama) -- PETRONAS has launched the fourth edition of its accelerator programme, FutureTech 4.0, aimed at scaling innovative solutions that addresses real-world industry challenges and redefine the future of energy. Open for applications now, this edition will focus on driving innovation and sustainability across three key categories: Industry & Work, Energy and Chemicals & Materials.

Twenty shortlisted startups will undergo a 12-week accelerator programme, gaining access to masterclasses, tailored workshops, and one-on-one mentorship and coaching. The programme will also provide business immersion with strategic partners, access to networks, new markets, and funding opportunities, as well as pilot and test-bedding initiatives to support the scaling of their startups.

The programme will begin with an Immersion Week, which coincides with Energy Asia this June, and culminate in a Demo Day at the end of August 2025. During Demo Day, startups will present their solutions to C-suite executives from PETRONAS and its corporate partners, as well as investors and potential collaborators.

PETRONAS Senior Vice President of Corporate Strategy, Marina Md Taib said, “At PETRONAS, we believe that innovation is key to shaping a sustainable future. Through FutureTech 4.0, PETRONAS aims to cultivate a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship, while nurturing a robust tech-driven startup ecosystem in Malaysia and the broader Asia Pacific region.”

“The programme offers startups a platform to develop solutions that address industry challenges and unlock new growth opportunities while contributing to long-term socio-economic transformation. With the support of our corporate partners, startups will have the opportunity to validate their innovations, scale their solutions, and make a meaningful impact towards energy transition efforts,” she added.

The past three cohorts have attracted over 900 applicants and supported the growth of 65 startups. In collaboration with our corporate partners, S P Setia Bhd, Xplor Ventures the Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) arm of PTTEP, BOSCH, FutureTech 4.0 aims to drive innovation in the energy sector, foster the next generation of innovators, and empower startups to scale their solutions. The programme will also receive support from key startup ecosystem partners including Malaysia’s Cradle Fund, Singapore’s SGInnovate, and Japan External Trade Organization.

Applications are open until 18 April, 2025. Interested startups can find more information on FutureTech 4.0 at https://www.petronas.com/ventures/futuretech4.0/

Issued by
Media Communications
Group Strategic Relations & Communications
PETRONAS

SOURCE: PETRONAS

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Estee Aina Huslan
Tel: 012-2283377
Email: esteeaina.huslan@petronas.com

--BERNAMA

DDPAI UNVEILS Z50 PRO IN MALAYSIA: STAY CONNECTED ON THE ROAD WITH 4G, 4K CLARITY & WI-FI 6

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, March 25 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DDPAI is launching its latest dash cam in Malaysia, the Z50 Pro. Designed for modern drivers, the Z50 Pro offers seamless 4G connectivity, crystal-clear 4K recording, and ultra-fast Wi-Fi 6, ensuring enhanced security, convenience, and performance on the road. 

Z50 Pro’s 4G connectivity provides drivers with real-time remote access to the dash cam. Users can check live footage, receive instant alerts, and manage recordings from anywhere via the DDPAI app. Whether monitoring a parked vehicle or staying updated on road conditions, 4G connectivity ensures uninterrupted peace of mind. The Z50 Pro 4G package includes a SIM card with a 90-day free trial 30GB data plan, ensuring instant connectivity out of the box.

Featuring Wi-Fi 6 high-speed transfer, the Z50 Pro significantly improves the efficiency of footage transfers. The improved wireless protocol delivers faster, more stable connections, making it easier than ever to access high-resolution footage without delays. Whether downloading large 4K video files or reviewing important recordings, Wi-Fi 6 ensures a buffer-free experience that enhances user convenience.

Beyond its advanced connectivity, the Z50 Pro records in true 4K resolution, capturing every detail with exceptional clarity. Empowered by AI ISP technology, the NightVIS 2.0 provides superior night vision, significantly enhancing nighttime parking monitoring in low-light conditions.

The Supercapacitor enhances durability and reliability, preventing power failures and increasing longevity. Meanwhile, 24/7 parking monitoring provides round-the-clock surveillance, offering continuous security and deterrence against theft or vandalism. Additionally, the GPS version includes built-in GPS and ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance System) to provide real-time location tracking, driving insights, lane departure warnings, and forward collision alerts.

Leo Luo, CEO of DDPAI, stated: “The Z50 Pro’s 4G connectivity and 4K resolutions, along with other advanced features, are designed to make driving smarter and safer than ever. We believe that our new dash cam launch will set a new benchmark in the market, catering to everyday drivers who demand the best in value, security, and convenience.”

The DDPAI Z50 Pro is now available for purchase. Visit the Z50 Pro product page for more information, and find the available Z50 Pro packages on DDPAI Official Malaysia or DDPAI MALAYSIA CERTIFIED STORE.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c64402fe-a3bb-4c38-bc01-c44b75bb5ea2


overseas@ddpai.com

SOURCE : DDPAI Technology Co., Ltd

CARBONPURA LAUNCHES GHANA GREEN GUARD FOR SUSTAINABLE SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT

KUALA LUMPUR, March 25 (Bernama) -- CarbonPura has introduced the US$25 billion Ghana Green Guard, a transformative series of privately funded environmental protection and climate-smart projects tailored to Ghana’s unique landscape. (US$1=RM4.43)

This initiative combines the power of climate futures ecosystems with carbon finance to tackle pressing environmental and sustainability challenges while advancing the country's environmental restoration and socio-economic development goals.

The agreement, involving CarbonPura Africa, the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) of Ghana, and the Private Sector Participation in Health (PSPH), seeks to implement large-scale regenerative solutions for sustainability, according to a statement.

CarbonPura Africa Vice President of Operations, Dr Fred Bedzrah, described the agreement as a groundbreaking step in positioning Ghana as a leader in sustainable carbon finance, stating that by integrating transparent governance and community engagement, the Ghana Green Guard sets new standards for environmental and socio-economic impact.

Meanwhile, EPA Chief Executive Officer, Prof Nana Ama Browne Klutse highlighted the Ghana Green Guard Agreement as a pivotal milestone in the nation’s environmental progress. She emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships and international carbon markets in driving sustainability, protecting water resources, and securing a healthier future for all Ghanaians.

On the other hand, PSPH Executive Director, Dr Francis Adjei emphasised the social benefits, noting that true sustainability extends beyond environmental restoration to improving healthcare, strengthening communities, and creating opportunities for vulnerable groups.

The project is expected to generate over 305 million investment-grade carbon credits across 12 million hectares of diverse landscapes, with projected cumulative revenue of US$10.4 billion over 25 years. These efforts will support community development programmes, with a focus on empowering women, children, farmers, and vulnerable communities.

The initiative aligns with both international and local partners, government support, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), universities, and the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals, as well as Ghana’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions and global climate goals. A key priority is improving Ghana’s water security through sustainable solutions, particularly in regions impacted by illegal mining.

The project leverages 12 million hectares of ecologically rich land across Ghana, with activities including reforestation, regenerative agriculture, illegal mining restoration, and coastal environment regeneration. These efforts are aimed at achieving scalable, investment-grade carbon credit generation and ensuring sustained environmental improvement.

Each activity within the project is designed to deliver long-term environmental and socio-economic benefits, creating a positive cycle where ecological improvements lead to stronger communities, job creation, food security, and economic resilience.

-- BERNAMA

GLOBAL CALL FOR DESIGNERS: CREATE ANCIENT SHU CIVILISATION LOGO

KUALA LUMPUR, March 24 (Bernama) -- The Sichuan Provincial Cultural Heritage Administration has launched a global call for submissions for the ‘Ancient Shu Civilization Logo’, inviting individuals and organisations to create a logo for this civilisation, which will run until May 10.

The contest encourages participants to submit designs that embody the cultural value and unique charm of the ancient Shu civilisation, particularly two prominent historical sites, Sanxingdui and Jinsha, according to a statement.

A representative from the organising committee said the initiative aims to bridge ancient and modern civilisations, encouraging greater understanding and appreciation of the ancient Shu heritage.

Entries must incorporate elements from the Sanxingdui and Jinsha sites, showcasing the Shu civilisation’s cultural value, and the design should adopt an international perspective while incorporating Chinese cultural aesthetics and the distinctive characteristics of the Ba-Shu region.

It must align with the theme, feature an innovative composition, and be visually striking, highly recognisable, and artistically expressive.

Submissions should include both an image file and a source file, along with a written description of 300 to 800 words, submitted to the event's email address at submit@visitancientshu.com.

The competition offers a first prize of 50,000 Chinese yuan, two second prizes of 10,000 Chinese yuan each, three third prizes of 5,000 Chinese yuan each, and 10 excellence prizes of 2,000 Chinese yuan each. (100 Chinese yuan = RM61.06)

-- BERNAMA

"LONG-TERM CARE TECH PORTAL" ​ENGLISH VERSION SHOWCASES JAPAN’S ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES

KUALA LUMPUR, March 24 (Bernama) -- The management office of the long-term care robot portal has released the English version of the "Long-term Care Tech Portal" (https://robotcare.jp/en/home/index?type=pw), a website that provides information on state-of-the-art care and age tech in Japan.

According to a statement, the portal aims to promote the development and use of long-term care technology in nursing care settings, offering a wealth of information on the latest advancements.

The English site has been launched to share Japan’s innovative technologies with international audiences in which they can explore how these technologies are being implemented in Japan’s ageing society. The site is sponsored by the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED).

This platform is designed to help everyone involved in long-term care understand how such technology can be safely and effectively used while encouraging further development and utilisation.

It includes details about the introduction of long-term care technology at care sites and the ongoing development of such devices, including the "Project to Promote the Development of Long-term Care Technology" supported by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry and AMED.

The featured content includes a list of cutting-edge long-term care technologies supported by AMED in Japan. Additionally, the portal features videos that demonstrate the actual use of these technologies, with 10 highlighted innovations and their use in the field.

There are also videos and articles of discussions with experts, including developers, researchers, and care providers, who share insights about their efforts, challenges, and visions for the future of long-term care technology, while content will be updated as new information becomes available.

-- BERNAMA

TIME FOR ASSURERS TO ACT FOR THE BENEFIT OF POLICY OWNERS

KUALA LUMPUR, March 24 (Bernama) --

Introduction
Despite calls to engage insurers privately and not moot their points through media, APHM continues airing its concerns publicly. The general public couldn't care less about this issue. These are private matters between APHM and Insurers. As mentioned in the same article, the relationship between private hospitals and insurers is best described as symbiotic. APHM must find solutions that flourish this relationship rather than be parasitic.  

APHM proposes the formation of a joint working committee between the association and Assurers to review billing structures and ensure fair pricing of healthcare services. It is a good start, but it needs to focus its energy on the core matter, the burdening hospital charges that cause assurers to increase their prices. The billing structure and so-called fair pricing don't solve the current problems. It is more of an academic exercise. 

APHM's public statements call for assurers to keep cashless medical products while using patient care as a smoke screen. It is a ruse to maintain its top and bottom line, and its sincerity can be seen when it issued a statement rejecting Assurer's proposal for private hospitals to freeze costs for three years and also for the Health Ministry to regulate the pricing of pharmaceuticals or medication during the period assurers facing premium pricing caps. 
 

Public Education
Since APHM is only interested in making public statements to try to arouse policyholders’ sentiments to protect their cash flow and profit margins, it is time for assurers to take steps to protect policy owners' interests. The public is concerned about rising health premiums. They don't understand the reasons behind it.   

Therefore, assurers need to expand their role in public education on how assurers develop their product prices. Most of the cost goes toward paying claims, distribution costs, and maintaining statutory reserves. Assurers must demonstrate how much premium is allocated to companies as their pretax profits for every ringgit of premium received. 

Public education goes a long way and will make the public understand the financial burden caused by APHM members.

Cheaper, Scalable & Customized Direct Products
Policy owners deserve access to cheaper health assurance products. Insurers can consider two critical modifiable parameters: direct distribution without going through agents and selling the product on a reimbursement basis. Distribution through agents is costly. Technology today allows companies to educate customers on product features with ease. Product distribution has greater depth today.  

Assurers can develop tier products that cover the treatment of medical risks for specific age groups. The young have a lesser risk of admission due to chronic illnesses. The sum cover can be lowered since the cost of treatment for acute illnesses and injuries is low. Employees can buy a small sum for the employed category to cover health top-up products, where the primary claim should be against the employer's paid assurance. The top-up is used only when the primary product limits are exhausted. 

The second strategy would be reintroducing reimbursement-based products. It has dual key advantages. First, the policy owners are responsible for controlling hospital bill expenses. Coupled with BNM directives of Co-payment, policy owners would question their hospital charges. Introducing Co-pay reimbursement products is within the assurer's rights. We cannot blame APHMs for making public statements and calling for assurers to keep cashless medical products as they know it significantly impacts their earnings. 

The third strategy is for assurers to revisit and expand the strategy they introduced in early 2000, where they formed a consortium that markets national health assurance products instead of individual company products. An industry-wide product allows the consolidation of claim data to determine the true industry burning costs. More importantly, consolidating policy owners' data enables the industry to spread costs and introduce cheaper products. Individual assurance companies only need to focus on distribution and customer service. The focus would be on customer service. This approach would be the seed of the National Health Assurance under the assurance industry-driven National Healthcare Financing System. 

Under this approach, the competition among the assurance companies is no longer on pricing. The law of large numbers dictates and has an impact on price. However, if private hospitals continue to have the unchecked freedom to determine the charges, the proposed measures will only temporarily reprieve policy owners.   

Conclusion
In the best interest of policy owners & to protect them against increasing premiums, re-introducing reimbursement health products would be the best approach. Policy owners themselves must take the role of questioning hospital charges, which directly impacts health assurance premiums. 

Assurers must develop products that limit the benefit payment according to age, gender, pre-existing conditions and risk exposure. A young person who enjoys employer insurance coverage does not need an RM1000,000 sum of cover. Having high annual and lifetime limits promotes "medical inflation". 

Assurers must get their act together as an industry, focus on their policy owners, ignore APHM public statements and develop a structured public education program explaining how assurers’ price their products.

21-3-2025  

Dr Mohamed Rafick Khan 
Reassurer and Assurance Industry Consultant

Dr. Mohamed Rafick is a trained physician with 12 years of experience in military medical services and over 22 years of experience in the assurance industry. He retired as the CEO of a multinational reinsurance company in 2019. Currently, he remains active as an independent international assurance industry consultant.

SOURCE: Dr Mohamed Rafick Khan 
Reassurer and Assurance Industry Consultant

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Dr Rafick 
Tel: 012 2218956
Email: drrafick@gmail.com

--BERNAMA

Quantexa Ranked Among Top 10 In Chartis Financial Crime, Compliance Report

KUALA LUMPUR, March 21 (Bernama) -- Quantexa, a global provider of Decision Intelligence (DI) solutions, has earned a spot among the top 10 vendors in the prestigious Chartis Financial Crime and Compliance 50 (FCC50) report, securing seventh place overall.

According to a statement, the company’s artificial intelligence (AI)-powered solutions also received leadership awards for data enrichment and entity management augmented analytics, alongside recognition for excellence in capital markets.

This accolade comes at a significant moment for Quantexa, following a successful US$175 million Series F investment round that valued the British technology company at US$2.6 billion and its ability to provide critical contextual intelligence, empowering financial institutions to combat emerging threats in a complex regulatory environment. (US$1=RM4.42)

Quantexa Chief Product Officer (FinCrime), Alexon Bell said the company remains committed to helping banking customers break down data silos and deploy trusted AI solutions to understand customer behaviours, mitigate risks, and fight fraud efficiently.

Meanwhile, Chartis Research Director, Nick Vitchev said Quantexa’s continued recognition underscores its leadership in financial crime risk management, highlighting the company’s commitment to innovation and its ability to unify data for better decision-making in an increasingly complex financial landscape.

Recent announcements by the company include the upcoming launch of two innovative solutions. These include Q Assist, a context-aware generative AI suite designed to provide real-time insights for front-line teams, set for early access in April.

In addition, Quantexa Cloud, a comprehensive Software as a Service (SaaS) suite designed to modernise anti-money laundering workflows, currently in customer preview on Microsoft Azure.

Quantexa’s rapid growth highlights the increasing demand for its DI platform, which helps enterprises and government agencies to scale AI and data initiatives for improved outcomes in areas such as Know Your Customer (KYC), anti-money laundering, fraud prevention, and customer intelligence.

The Chartis FCC50 report evaluates top financial crime and compliance technology vendors based on market influence, technological innovation, and functionality in areas such as fraud detection, sanctions screening, and KYC compliance.

-- BERNAMA

CGTN: CHINESE PRESIDENT HIGHLIGHTS YUNNAN'S "FLOWER ECONOMY”, CULTURAL TOURISM DURING VISIT

KUALA LUMPUR, March 21 (Bernama) -- On a recent tour of southwest Yunnan Province, Chinese President Xi Jinping visited the Lijiang Modern Flower Industrial Park, an epitome of China's efforts to advance rural revitalisation.

Empowered by an intelligent production system, all the greenhouses in the park use soilless cultivation technology, with the coverage rate of integrated water and fertiliser irrigation facilities reaching more than 85 per cent.

Relying on the nearby Lijiang Airport, products such as fresh-cut roses and calla lilies are swiftly transported to major cities across China and internationally, providing jobs for more than 300 local villagers.

During his visit, President Xi interacted with local villagers and technicians, learning about flower varieties, market sales, and incomes, according to a statement.

Villagers shared that they earned an average of over 4,000 Chinese yuan (about US$557.46) per month, with peak seasons pushing their monthly income beyond 7,000 Chinese yuan. (US$1 = RM4.42)

Xi has focused on developing distinctive industries, emphasising that industrial revitalisation is key to rural revitalisation. Yunnan’s favourable climate has earned it the title of “plant kingdom”, and the province’s flower industry is a major driver of the regional economy.

In 2024, the province's flower planting area expanded to 1.95 million mu (about 130,000 hectares), with 350,000 mu dedicated to fresh-cut flowers. This has made Yunnan the world’s largest producer of fresh-cut flowers, with a total of 20.6 billion produced, providing direct employment for over 380,000 people in the industry.

Xi also visited the Old Town of Lijiang to observe efforts in protecting and utilising local cultural heritage. Lijiang’s rich cultural and scenic offerings, along with its thriving tourism industry, have contributed significantly to the local economy.

The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has experienced a surge in tourism, with 17.05 million visitors from January to September last year—a 13.07 per cent increase year-on-year.

Xi emphasised the importance of balancing cultural heritage protection with sustainable tourism development, encouraging the promotion of local culture and attractions.

-- BERNAMA

Extended Version Of AMTD’s The Last Dance Movie To Release On April 4

KUALA LUMPUR, March 19 (Bernama) -- AMTD Group Inc (AMTD), alongside World Media and Entertainment Universal Inc (WME), a subsidiary of the group under AMTD Digital, jointly announced that AMTD’s latest movie, "The Last Dance: Extended Version", will be released to the public on April 4.

The extended version of The Last Dance will feature an additional 15 minutes of footage, including new scenes with acclaimed actors Kaki Sham and Vincent Kok, as well as additional scenes of Catherine Chau and Dayo Wong.

According to a statement, the additional footage enriches the story by delving deeper into the family background issues faced by Wong's character, Dominic Ngai.

As of the date of the announcement, the movie has achieved a global box office of US$50.7 million, becoming the highest-grossing Chinese-language film ever in Hong Kong history. (US$1=RM4.44)

Continuing to enjoy widespread acclaim following its original release in November last year, The Last Dance is also a clear front runner for various international film festivals, including 18 nominations in the 43rd Hong Kong Film Awards, the 18th Asian Film Awards; and the Hong Kong Film Directors' Guild Awards.

AMTD Group is a conglomerate with a core business portfolio spanning across media and entertainment, education and training, and premium assets and hospitality areas.

Meanwhile, jointly established by AMTD Group, AMTD IDEA Group, and AMTD Digital Inc, World Media and Entertainment focuses on global strategies and developments in multimedia, entertainment, and cultural affairs worldwide.

-- BERNAMA

CGTN: TWO YEARS ON, CHINA'S GLOBAL CIVILIZATION INITIATIVE GAINS GREATER RELEVANCE IN A TURBULENT WORLD

CGTN published an article on the second anniversary of China's Global Civilization Initiative proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping, which has become more relevant than ever amid uncertainty, turbulence and division in current times. Through introducing China’s efforts to practice the initiative and insights provided by experts and scholars, the article emphasized that China's respect for the diversity of civilizations makes the country an important role model for promoting world peace and stability.

BEIJING, March 17 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Two years ago, Chinese President Xi Jinping introduced the Global Civilization Initiative (GCI), calling for respect for cultural diversity, the promotion of common human values, the preservation and innovation of civilizations, and stronger international people-to-people exchanges.

In today's world, the initiative has become more relevant than ever amid uncertainty, turbulence, and division.

Facing rising anti-globalization trends, Elias Jabbour, a professor at the State University of Rio de Janeiro's Faculty of Economic Sciences, highlighted the growing significance of GCI. He said China's inclusive approach to diversity sets an example for the world. At a time when some self-proclaimed "civilized" nations are enforcing mass deportations and repatriations, China's emphasis on mutual respect and cultural exchange stands in sharp contrast, the professor said, while commending the GCI for championing the coexistence of diverse civilizations without imposing one nation's values on another.

Guiding the world toward peace

When Xi proposed GCI at the CPC in Dialogue with World Political Parties High-Level Meeting in March 2023, he quoted a Chinese proverb: "A single flower does not make spring, while one hundred flowers in full blossom bring spring to the garden" to indicate the vitality of cultural diversity and the necessity of embracing multiple civilizations in building a harmonious world.

"Countries need to uphold the principles of equality, mutual learning, dialogue and inclusiveness among civilizations, and let cultural exchanges transcend estrangement, mutual learning transcends clashes, and coexistence transcend feelings of superiority," said Xi.

China's commitment to civilization dialogue was recognized later in June when the UN adopted a resolution proposed by China, designating June 10 as the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations. Chinese envoy to the UN, Fu Cong, stated that this initiative sought to refocus global attention on intercultural dialogue at a "critical juncture."

"If you look around the world, you see a lot of disputes, a lot of conflicts or even wars. And also, there is a surge of intolerance, extremism and also populism. All these can find their roots in the differences or the lack of understanding among cultures and religions," Fu said.

A CGTN poll of 15,574 people across 40 countries and regions, published in March 2023, found that 80.3 percent see multiple civilizations as beneficial to global development, 85 percent believe in building a shared future through tolerance and cooperation, while 89.6 percent call for greater dialogue and openness, rising to 93.7 percent in developing countries.

Actions speak louder than words

China is not just an advocate, but also a true practitioner.

In November 2023, Beijing hosted the first World Conference of Classics, where over 400 experts engaged in discussions on classical civilizations. The conference was a platform to encourage nations to draw wisdom from ancient traditions, fostering greater mutual understanding. Since then, China has organized international forums such as the Nishan Forum on World Civilizations and the International Chinese Language Conference, which bring together scholars, policymakers, and cultural experts to explore shared values.

Cultural preservation is one of the main aspects of China's commitment to the initiative. The Beijing Central Axis, a historic architectural complex dating back to the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368), was officially inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2024. The same year, the Chinese Spring Festival was added to UNESCO's Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. These milestones underscore China's dedication to safeguarding and promoting its rich cultural legacy on the global stage.

The country has been actively exploring and promoting elements of traditional Chinese culture, bringing its charm to the global stage. From the animated film Ne Zha 2 topping the global box office for animated films, to the video game Black Myth: Wukong gaining international popularity, and the dance drama Wing Chun becoming a smash hit in overseas markets, China is continuously innovating its cultural heritage.

It has also made efforts to strengthen people-to-people exchanges. Over the past year, student groups from cities such as Dallas, Houston, New York, and San Francisco have traveled to China to visit universities, companies, and iconic landmarks, following President Xi's 2023 pledge to invite 50,000 students over five years. In recent years, China has co-hosted "Tourism Years" with multiple countries to promote cultural exchange. By the end of 2024, China had expanded its visa-free entry policy to 29 countries, including France, Germany and Italy, facilitating greater global connections.

For more information, please click:
https://news.cgtn.com/news/2025-03-15/Two-years-on-China-s-GCI-becomes-more-vital-in-turbulent-times-1BL2FHhmmaY/p.html

Email: cgtn@cgtn.com

SOURCE: China Global Television Network Corporation

--BERNAMA

Prodezi, Huong Viet Holding Launch US$195 Mln Eco-Industrial Park In Vietnam

KUALA LUMPUR, March 14 (Bernama) -- Prodezi Long An JSC (Prodezi) and Huong Viet Investment Consulting JSC (Huong Viet Holding) have officially begun construction on Long An's first eco-industrial park in Vietnam.

The Prodezi Eco-Industrial Park (Prodezi EIP), with a total investment of US$195 million, is set to become one of the largest eco-industrial developments in the Mekong Delta region. (US$1 = RM4.43)

According to a statement, the groundbreaking ceremony of the project marks a milestone for Prodezi and Huong Viet Holding to develop a well-planned eco-industrial park model in line with global sustainability trends.

Spanning 400 hectares (ha), it will showcase sustainable practices such as renewable energy use, wastewater treatment, recycling, green-certified buildings, and biodiversity protection.

Under the plan, the eco-industrial park will deploy clean energy sources, including solar power and energy-saving systems, to minimise carbon emissions, striving toward carbon neutrality in production.

Meanwhile, an advanced wastewater treatment system is installed to recirculate water in manufacturing, reducing resource extraction and environmental pollution. Additionally, the project boasts green-certified buildings that prioritise energy efficiency, eco-friendly materials, and high operational performance.

The first phase subdivision is slated to be completed and handed over to investors by the third quarter of this year. Once operational, Prodezi EIP is envisioned as the leading manufacturing hub in the region for industries such as semiconductors, electronics, artificial intelligence, textiles and footwear, food and beverages, and logistics.

Located near the 100-ha LA Home eco-urban area, the park will be part of a larger industrial-urban complex offering a high-quality working environment.

The project's strategic location also ensures excellent connectivity to Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) and nearby provinces through key transport routes such as the HCMC – Trung Luong Expressway, and the Ben Luc – Long Thanh Expressway, facilitating efficient access to airports and seaports and improving supply chain logistics.

Prodezi and Huong Viet Holding have also signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with prominent Japanese partners, including Chitose and Toho Gas, to provide wastewater treatment and natural gas solutions for Prodezi EIP.

-- BERNAMA