Tuesday, January 31, 2017

NASDAQ CORPORATE SOLUTIONS AND EUROLAND IR PARTNER TO PROVIDE ENHANCED FEATURES FOR INVESTOR RELATIONS WEBSITES

STOCKHOLM, Sweden, Jan 31 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nasdaq Corporate Solutions announces its partnership with Euroland IR to offer investor relations (IR) professionals worldwide with enhanced features for their IR websites. The partnership was formalized in December 2016 and brings comprehensive stock quotes, interactive charting and other IR website modules to thousands of Nasdaq Corporate Solutions clients across EMEA, Asia and the Americas. This upgrade for clients is already underway and follows the release of Nasdaq’s next generation IR website platform powered by Drupal 8 open source technology.


HULFT PTE. LTD. HAS SIGNED A HULFT IMPLEMENTATION PARTNER AGREEMENT WITH FUJITSU INDONESIA STRENGTHENING SALES AND INSTALLATION SUPPORT FRAMEWORK FOR THE HULFT SERIES IN INDONESIA

TOKYO, Jan 31 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- SAISON INFORMATION SYSTEMS CO., LTD. (JASDAQ: 9640) (Headquarters: Toshima-ku, Tokyo; President: Kazuhiro Uchida; hereafter “SAISON INFORMATION SYSTEMS”) has today announced that its subsidiary in Singapore, HULFT Pte. Ltd., has signed a HULFT Implementation Partner Agreement (*1) with PT. Fujitsu Indonesia (Headquarters: Jakarta; President Director: Achmad Sunuadji Sofwan; hereafter “Fujitsu Indonesia”), as a partner working to promote HULFT products throughout the region. HULFT is a series of file transfer middleware products that has the fourth highest share of the market in terms of worldwide sales (*2), and the leading share of the domestic market in Japan (*3).


OTC GLOBAL HOLDINGS KICKS OFF 10TH ANNIVERSARY WITH EXPANSION INTO ASIA PACIFIC

OTC Asia office in Singapore to offer European and Asian crude swaps, distillate swaps and cracks, and physical fuel broking; completes leading independent commodities interdealer broker’s global service model
 
SINGAPORE, Jan 31 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- OTC Global Holdings (OTCGH) today announced the formation of OTC Asia in Singapore. The new office and expansion into the Asia Pacific region marks a significant milestone for the leading independent commodities interdealer broker, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary in 2017, as it completes the company’s global service model. Through OTCGH’s Aalpha Energy desk, which serves every major global crude swaps market via offices in Houston, London, New York and now Singapore, clients can speak with a live broker at any time during the global workday.



A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF FIDELITY LIFE ASSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

SINGAPORE, Jan 31 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a-” of Fidelity Life Assurance Company Limited (Fidelity Life) (New Zealand). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.
 
The ratings reflect Fidelity Life’s strong risk-adjusted capitalization, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), and favorable operating performance.


Friday, January 27, 2017

Dreams Of Couple To Step Foot On Holy Land Becomes A Reality After Winning Umrah Package

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- The dreams of a husband and wife couple to step foot on the holy land of Makkah, became a reality after winning the grand prize 'Umrah' package' in the Thohir 2016 Campaign organised by the Majlis Agama Islam Wilayah Persekutuan (PPZ-MAIWP) and Zakat Collection Centre, here today.

Aduni Ambar @ Ahmad, 49, winner of a package for two to perform 'Umrah' with her husband said she had participated in the campaign simply to fulfill her obligation to pay Zakat as a Muslim, without expecting the 'gift'.

"I did not expect to win the grand prize but praise to Allah, my dream of stepping foot on the holy land will become a reality," she told reporters when met here today.

Zulkifli Samsudin, 43, winner of the second prize took home a holiday package worth RM5,000 while third place winner Hasnah Mohamad, 56, received a 50" TV set worth RM3,000.

PPZ-MAIWP chief executive officer Mohd Rais Alias said the campaign which was organised for the first time to encourage more people to pay Zakat, had received overwhelming response.

"We will continue to encourage participation in the campaign by going down to the ground to meet the people and brief them of the benefits plus open information counters to interact with the Zakat officers in their respective areas," he said.

Also present was CIMB Islamic Bank chairman Datuk Dr Syed Muhammad Syed Abdul Kadir.

The campaign which encourages those paying Zakat to adopt the salary deduction payment method through online using the Thohir scheme.

From October to December last year, 2,143 people participated in the campaign.

-- BERNAMA

PBS Signs MoA With MIHRM To Introduce MBA In Human Potential Management

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- Putra Business School (PBS) signed a memorandum of agreement (MoA) with the Malaysian Institute of Human Resource Management (MIHRM) to nurture future leaders to practise human governance values by introducing Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Human Potential Management.

PBS in a statement today, said the MBA programme also catered to the needs of top managers, focusing on human potential management and leadership skills.

"The collaboration with MIHRM is essential to achieve PBS' objective of nurturing human leaders," it said.

The MoA was signed by PBS president and chief executive officer Prof Dr Zulkornain Yusop and MIHRM deputy president Dr Henry Yeoh at the Putra Business School, Universiti Putra Malaysia in Serdang yesterday.

According to the statement, PBS is one of the elite business schools in the region, having received the respected Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business accreditation.

-- BERNAMA


VistaJet Records 137 Pct Growth In Flight Bookings In 2016



KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- Global aviation company VistaJet has recorded a 137 per cent year-on-year growth in flight bookings in 2016, driven by higher travellers arriving and departing from the United States.

In a statement, VistaJet, the pioneer of asset-free hourly subscription model for private jets, said international and American passengers arriving and departing from the US grew 122 per cent year-on-year.

It said customers were able to arrange their flights with full catering in as little as 90 minutes from booking and also order catering from a restaurant of their choice.

VistaJet's fleet of 71 Bombardier Challenger and Global aircraft are positioned all over the world to take customers anywhere.

Chairman and Founder Thomas Flohr said North America had the most mature business aviation market in the world and VistaJet's advanced growth in a short time frame indicated that the market was ready for change.

"We are excited to give customers a new option, arranging for flights to more cities in the US and around the globe, in collaboration with our partner, Jet Aviation," he added.

-- BERNAMA


A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF MEIJI YASUDA LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY

HONG KONG, Jan 27 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A+ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “aa-” of Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance Company (Meiji Yasuda) (Japan). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.
 
The rating affirmations reflect Meiji Yasuda’s strong capitalization, strong business profile and stable operating performance.



DEEJAYS PROVE YOU CAN GO CASHLESS WITH CIMB PETRONAS DEBIT MASTERCARD!


Three-day, three-city cashless challenge proves ease of purchases for petrol, hotel, food and more, with new debit card 

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- "Now anyone can go cashless!" Two radio deejays lived this concept in the "Go Cashless" Challenge (Cabaran Tanpa Tunai) during a three-day trip covering Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru and Penang by simply using the CIMB PETRONAS Debit Mastercard as their challenge "partner".

Thursday, January 26, 2017

DATAMEER DRIVES BUSINESS GROWTH WITH NEW EXECUTIVE LEADERSHIP HIRES AND CUSTOMER WINS


National Instruments joins Datameer’s long list of customers

SAN FRANCISCO, Jan 25  (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- On the heels of appointing new CEO, Christian Rodatus, Datameer today announced George Shahid as chief financial officer (CFO) and Jeff Gallagher as senior vice president of sales. These executive leadership additions come at a critical stage of Datameer’s growth, as the company aggressively scales all aspects of its go-to-market strategy.

The Hadoop big data analytics market is projected to grow from $6.71 billion in 2016 to $40.69 billion by 2021, according to a recent report by MarketsandMarkets. Named as one of CRN’s top business analytics vendors of 2016, Datameer is seeing a number of companies around the world turn to its big data analytics platform to discover insights faster, including Barclays, Anthem, Siemens AG, National Instruments (NI), Bank of Montreal (BMO), Health Care Service Corporation (HCSC) and Etisalat. The appointments of Shahid and Gallagher capitalize on Datameer’s leadership as a superior global big data analytics solution, fast-growing customer base and deep industry and technology expertise.

Shahid is a global operating and financial executive with an extensive background with enterprise software and SaaS companies from the early stages through global expansion and successful exits. He has served as CFO of a number of companies including Augmedix, Loyaltylab (acquired by TIBCO), Blueroads and Differential, Inc. (now a part of Tumbleweed). 

THE WORLD'S TOP CITY DESTINATIONS REVEALED BY EUROMONITOR INTERNATIONAL

LONDON, Jan 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Market research company Euromonitor International released today the Top 100 City Destinations Ranking for 2015 international arrivals.
 
Despite falling arrivals, Hong Kong remained the top city destination in the world for the seventh consecutive year, with 26.7 million international visitors in 2015. Bangkok overtook London as the world’s second most visited city, with 10 percent growth in international arrivals. London moved down to the third spot in the global ranking but remained the top European city destination with international arrivals growing 7 percent in 2015.


DOCTOR2U LAUNCHES E-COMMERCE SITE HEALTH2U

SHAH ALAM, Jan 25 (Bernama) -- Doctor2U recently announced the launching of a new healthcare ecommerce platform, Health2U. Unlike other e-commerce sites in Malaysia, Health2U will focus exclusively on listing health-related products and services. These will include health products such as vitamins and supplements, medical devices, health screening packages, surgery packages, and more. 

“We are very excited about the launch of the Health2U platform. We believe Health2U will fit perfectly within the Doctor2U ecosystem and its mission of making healthcare as convenient and accessible as possible,” said Keegan Flynn, co-founder of Doctor2U.


A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF THE DAI-ICHI LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY, LIMITED

HONG KONG, Jan 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A+ (Superior) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “aa-” of The Dai-ichi Life Insurance Company, Limited (DL) (Japan), a wholly owned subsidiary of Dai-ichi Life Holdings, Inc. The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.
 
The ratings reflect DL’s strong risk-adjusted capitalization, strong market position and favorable operating performance.



TOSHIBA LAUNCHES CAR AUDIO CURRENT-FEEDBACK POWER AMPLIFIER IC WITH BUILT-IN FULL-TIME OFFSET DETECTION

TOKYO, Jan 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Toshiba Corporation's (TOKYO: 6502) Storage & Electronic Devices Solutions Company today announced the launch of “TCB502HQ,” a 4-channel power amplifier IC that detects output offset voltage, a factor in speaker burnout. Mass production starts today.

The new IC integrates a newly developed, full-time offset detection circuit that detects output offset voltage even during sound reproduction, preventing speaker burnout.


COVISINT RECOGNIZED AS SUPPLIER OF THE YEAR FOR SECOND CONSECUTIVE YEAR BY SAIC GENERAL MOTORS

DETROIT and SHANGHAI, China, Jan 25 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Covisint Corporation (Nasdaq:COVS) today announced it has been recognized as a supplier of the year by SAIC General Motors for the second consecutive year during the Annual Suppliers’ Conference and 2016 Suppliers’ Awards Ceremony, held in Wuhan City, January 21, 2017.





Wednesday, January 25, 2017

INTERNATIONAL COALITION FILES LAWSUIT IN DISTRICT COURT OF ROTTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS, FOR DAMAGES CAUSED BY ALLEGED CORRUPTION AND FRAUD PERPETRATED BY PETROLEO BRASILIERO, CERTAIN AFFILIATES AND ITS EXECUTIVES

ROTTERDAM, Netherlands, Jan 24 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- An International coalition announced today that a lawsuit was filed in Dutch Court yesterday on behalf of institutional investors who suffered billions of dollars in losses in their investments in Petroleo Brasiliero SA (“Petrobras”). Seeking declaratory relief as a result of the alleged corruption of the company and its executives, the coalition represents investors who purchased Petrobras securities on the BM&FBOVESPA exchange in Brazil and other securities purchased via transactions outside of, and not covered by, litigation in the United States. The damaged investor group believes the Netherlands is the optimal jurisdiction for pursuing legal action, as this is where Petrobras Global Finance B.V. and several other Petrobras entities and divisions are domiciled. In addition, the Dutch legal system has an established global settlement precedent for international investors who seek compensation pursuant to damages caused by fraud and violations of international securities laws.



ARYAKA SECURES $45 MILLION IN SERIES D FUNDING FROM THIRD POINT VENTURES AND DEUTSCHE TELEKOM CAPITAL PARTNERS

First investment from a major telecommunications company into global SD-WAN technology

MILPITAS, Calif., Jan 24 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Aryaka®, the leading global SD-WAN provider, announced today that it has completed a $45 million Series D round of financing. The investment, led by Third Point Ventures, adding new investor Deutsche Telekom Capital Partners (DTCP), and with participation from existing investors, represents a powerful validation of Aryaka’s global SD-WAN platform and marks the first investment in global SD-WAN technology by a major telecommunications company. The new funding round will help Aryaka aggressively expand its global reach.

The Series D financing builds on an exceptional year for Aryaka. The company has delivered over 100 percent year-over-year growth for five consecutive quarters and now has more than 500 global enterprise customers with sites in 63 countries around the world.  

Monday, January 23, 2017

9TH BUNKA FASHION GRADUATE UNIVERSITY FASHION WEEK SET FOR JAN. 30-FEB. 3

TOKYO, Jan 23 (Bernama) -- Bunka Fashion Graduate University (BFGU), a professional graduate school in Japan, will hold the Bunka Fashion Graduate University Fashion Week (BFGU FW) from January 30 to February 3. The ninth annual event features a symposium by Keisuke Imazaki (PLASTICTOKYO designer), Chisung Ihn (IHNN designer), Mari Odaka (malamute designer), Junya Satou (saat designer) and Takayuki Chino (CINOH designer).

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF THE HOLLARD INSURANCE COMPANY PTY LTD

SINGAPORE, Jan 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of "a-" of The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd (HIC) (Australia). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.

The ratings reflect HIC's strong risk-adjusted capitalization, as measured by Best’s Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR), and good operating performance.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28319

A.M. BEST REVISES OUTLOOKS TO POSITIVE FOR NIPPON LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY OF AMERICA AND AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF NIPPON LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY

HONG KONG, Jan 23 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has revised the outlooks to positive from stable and affirmed the Financial Strength Rating (FSR) of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating (Long-Term ICR) of “a-” of Nippon Life Insurance Company of America (NLB) (Des Moines, Iowa, USA). Concurrently, A.M. Best has affirmed the FSR of A+ (Superior) and the Long-Term ICR of “aa-” of its parent, Nippon Life Insurance Company (Nissay) (Japan). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.
 
The ratings reflect Nissay’s robust risk-adjusted capitalization, sound business profile and favorable operating results.


                                                                               

TOSHIBA LAUNCHES 800V SUPER JUNCTION N-CHANNEL POWER MOSFETS FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY POWER SUPPLIES WITH IMPROVED LOW ON-RESISTANCE AND HIGH SPEED SWITCHING

TOKYO, Jan 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Toshiba Corporation's (TOKYO:6502) Storage & Electronic Devices Solutions Company today announced the launch of 800V super junction N-channel power MOSFETs for high efficiency power supplies with improved low on-resistance and high speed switching. By utilizing the super junction structure, the eight new MOSFETs of the "DTMOS IV series" achieve approximately 79% reduction in on-resistance per area (RON x A) compared to Toshiba's previous "Ï€-MOSVIII series." Its improved high speed switching can also contribute to the efficiency of the power supplies of the sets that it is used in. The MOSFETs are suited for use in industrial power supplies, standby power supply for servers, adaptors and chargers of notebook PCs and mobile devices, and in power supplies for LED lighting. Shipments start from today.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28314

Saturday, January 21, 2017

SURIA KLCC USHER IN THE LUNAR NEW YEAR WITH 'PERANAKAN HOME COMING REUNION' THEMED FESTIVE DECORATIONS


KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 19 (Bernama) -- The essence of Chinese New Year is reuniting family members on the eve of the celebration.  Families congregate for a reunion dinner and eat dishes with auspicious names.  With that in mind, Suria KLCC’s decoration this year is themed, ‘A Peranakan Homecoming Reunion’ where a replica of the dining hall of an opulent double storey ‘Peranakan’ manor had been constructed at the centre court.

“We wanted to showcase to shoppers and visitors, a glimpse of the rich ‘Peranakan’ community opulent lifestyle and their mixed customs and traditions during this Chinese New Year. Some of the unique elements of ‘Peranakan’ community can be seen through the choice of furniture and ornaments decked out at this centre court,” said Andrew Brien, Executive Director/Chief Executive Officer of Suria KLCC Sdn Bhd.

Besides bringing family members together, the Lunar New Year is also an essential time to unite Malaysians irrespective of religion, creed and background.   In its effort to celebrate the unique ness of Malaysia and to bring Malaysians together during the festive season, Suria KLCC once again constructed the tallest Chinese lantern made of small Chinese lanterns and cherry blossom ornaments at KLCC Esplanade.  This majestic structure is 72 feet high and 40 feet wide.  Visitors can take pleasure in the structure and take photos with friends, loved ones or family members from today until 5 February.

Exim Bank Allocates RM1 Million For CSR Programmes

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 20 (Bernama) -- Export-Import Bank of Malaysia Bhd (Exim Bank) has allocated RM1 million annually for its continued corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes.

Chairman Datuk Mat Noor Nawi said the bank plans nationwide CSR programmes this year.

He added that the programmes would be based on applications and feedback from Exim Bank staff.

He told reporters this after a RM10,000 cheque handover to an orphanage, Madrasah Hashimiah Tahfiz Al-Quran & Anak Yatim here today.

Apart from the cheque, Exim Bank also contributed basic necessities.

The orphanage shelters 171, including Rohingya refugees.


-- BERNAMA

Friday, January 20, 2017

MQA Takes Over PSD's Tasks Of Assessing, Accrediting Tertiary Courses

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 20 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA) has taken over the duties of the Public Service Department (PSD) in assessing and accrediting courses offered in tertiary institutions locally and abroad.

MQA chief executive officer (CEO) Prof Datuk Dr Rujhan Mustafa said the take over took effect early this year.

"Previously, assessing and accrediting an education programme either locally or abroad were the duties of the Standing Committee for Assessment and Qualification Recognition under the PSD.

"Now, the tasks had been taken over by the MQA to improve the effectiveness of extending quality assurance for tertiary institutions as well as to enhance communications with the general public," he told a press conference after attending the MQA CEO Aspiration & Media Appreciation event today.

At the event, the MQA also presented tokens of appreciation to media practitioners who helped convey information on the agency to the public.

Rujhan also advised Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) and Sijil Tinggi Persekolahan Malaysia (STPM) holders to check with the MQA the accreditations of courses offered to them by tertiary institutions before pursuing their studies.

He said most candidates were easily duped by false information that these programmes were offered with the collaboration of the MQA.

"They can refer to our website mqa.gov.my, or download the application myMQR on their smart phones or come to our agency to check if the course offered is registered with the MQA," he said.

As of December last year, the MQA had accredited 11,380 academic programmes in registered tertiary institutions across the country.

-- BERNAMA

COLLIERS INTERNATIONAL COMPLETES US$700 MILLION REVOLVING CREDIT FACILITY

New unsecured structure increases financial capacity and flexibility to fund future growth

TORONTO, Jan 19 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Colliers International Group Inc. (NASDAQ:CIGI) (TSX:CIGI) ("Colliers") announced today that it has expanded and extended its multi-currency revolving credit facility (the "Facility") to reinforce its already strong financial position and increase its flexibility for future growth. Borrowing capacity has been expanded to US$700 million, from US$525 million, and the maturity date extended to January 2022 from June 2020. The new unsecured Facility reflects Colliers' proven long-term growth strategy, increased scale, geographic and service line diversification, high level of insider ownership, and investment-grade balance sheet.

TD Securities acted as Lead Arranger for the financing. The Toronto-Dominion Bank acted as Administration Agent. HSBC Bank and Bank of Montreal acted as Syndication Agents while JP Morgan Chase Bank, The Bank of Nova Scotia and U.S. Bank acted as Documentation Agents. Additional bank participants include Royal Bank of Canada, Bank of America, Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, National Bank of Canada, and Wells Fargo Bank. Torys LLP acted as legal counsel to Colliers in connection with this financing.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28302

A.M. BEST REVISES OUTLOOKS TO STABLE FOR NEW INDIA ASSURANCE COMPANY LIMITED

SINGAPORE, Jan 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has revised the outlooks to stable from positive, and affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A- (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a-” of New India Assurance Company Limited (New India) (India).
 
While the company remains profitable overall, its pretax margin has weakened, as underwriting performance for the 12 months to March 2016 and the six months to September 2016 has deteriorated and fallen behind its projections.




ABEONA THERAPEUTICS RECEIVES ORPHAN DRUG DESIGNATION IN THE EUROPEAN UNION FOR ABO-101 GENE THERAPY IN SANFILIPPO SYNDROME TYPE B

NEW YORK and CLEVELAND, Jan 20 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- 
  • ABO-101, Abeona’s third AAV gene therapy program to receive EMA Orphan Designation
  • Clinical trials anticipated to begin enrolling in second quarter 2017
  • Natural History Study in 25 patients has established efficacy outcome measures
  • FDA previously granted Orphan Drug and Rare Pediatric Disease Designations   

Abeona Therapeutics Inc. (Nasdaq:ABEO), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing gene therapies for life-threatening rare diseases, announced today that the European Medicines Agency (EMA) Committee for Orphan Medicinal Products has granted Orphan Drug Designation (EMA/OD/226/16) for Abeona’s gene therapy program ABO-101 for children impacted by Sanfilippo syndrome type B (MPS IIIB), a rare autosomal recessive disease that causes neurocognitive decline, speech loss, loss of mobility, and premature death in children.

HARKNESS SCREENS TO POWER MBO CINEMAS NEW FLAGSHIP ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX IN MALAYSIA

BANGALORE, India, Jan 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Global screen technology leader Harkness Screens has been selected by MBO Cinemas - a leading cinema chain in Malaysia currently with 207 screens and a seating capacity of over 32,721 seats - for its new flagship entertainment hub in Kuala Lumpur, thus providing its viewers with an ultimate and enthralling cinema experience. The new Kuala Lumpur screen will use the DP4K-30L flagship laser projector by Barco. This partnership between Harkness Screens and MBO Cinemas makes Harkness Screens the exclusive screen provider for all future projects by MBO Cinemas.


A.M. BEST AFFIRMS CREDIT RATINGS OF SOUTH CHINA INSURANCE CO., LTD.

HONG KONG, Jan 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the Financial Strength Rating of A (Excellent) and the Long-Term Issuer Credit Rating of “a” of South China Insurance Co., Ltd. (South China Insurance) (Taiwan). The outlook of these Credit Ratings (ratings) is stable.
 
The ratings reflect South China Insurance’s sound risk-adjusted capitalization, track record of favorable operating performance and its diversified distribution capabilities, which include direct, agents and brokers, car dealers and financial institutions. The company also benefits from synergies with its publicly traded parent, Hua Nan Financial Holdings Co. Ltd. (HNFH), in risk management and cross-selling opportunities.
 
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28309

Thursday, January 19, 2017

FINALCAD APPOINTS AEC INDUSTRY VETERAN EMMANUEL SAMUEL TO ACCELERATE GROWTH IN ASIA

SINGAPORE, Jan 19 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- FINALCAD, a global leader in mobile construction apps and predictive analytics for the field, today announced appointment of Emmanuel Samuel as Vice President Sales, Asia.
 
Emmanuel brings more than 25 years of experience in IT Business Development, Sales and Marketing, with particular strength in the Architecture, Engineering and Construction (AEC) market. He will be responsible for expanding FINALCAD’s revenue in the Asian region, based out of the Singapore office.





A STRATEGIC COLLABORATIONS BETWEEN KADA AND AGROBANK TO SERVICE THE AGRICULTURE COMMUNITY BETTER

A symbolic ceremony was held with YB Datuk Md Alwi Che Ahmad, Chairman of KADA receiving a mock card by Tan Sri Mohamad Zabidi Zainal, Chairman of Agrobank. The event was witnessed by YB Dato' Sri Ahmad Shabery Cheek, Minister of Agriculture and Agro-based Industry

PUTRAJAYA, Jan 18 (Bernama) -- Kemubu Agricultural Development Authority (KADA) and Agrobank  today celebrated the completion of their cash management project. The ceremony was held in conjunction with monthly assembly of the Ministry of Agriculture and Agro Based Industry (MOA)  at Wisma Tani, Putrajaya.

A symbolic was held with  YB Datuk Md Alwi Che Ahmad, Chairman of KADA  receiving a mock card by Tan Sri Mohamad Zabidi Zainal, Chairman of Agrobank. The event was witnessed by YB Dato' Sri Ahmad Shabery Cheek, Minister of Agriculture and Agro-based Industry, Dato' Wan Mohd Fadzmi Wan Othman, President / CEO of Agrobank and Encik Mohd Ridzuan Ismail, General Manager of KADA.



ANIME TOURISM PROJECT, ADOPTED BY JAPANESE GOVERNMENT, TO OFFER 30 FOREIGN MONITORS ANIME TOUR OF JAPAN


TOKYO, Jan 17 (Bernama) -- 

The Anime Tourism Association, in collaboration with Kadokawa ASCII Research Laboratories, Inc., is accepting applications for a trail tour and trip to filming locations of "Your Name" (Kimi no Na wa), one of the biggest hit anime films in Japan.

(Logo: http://prw.kyodonews.jp/prwfile/release/M101933/201701167893/_prw_OI1im_2YcxaF9U.jpg)

(Image: http://prw.kyodonews.jp/prwfile/release/M101933/201701167893/_prw_OI2fl_yvFp2629.jpg)

A total of 30 anime fans worldwide will receive invitations to an anime tour of Japan, sponsored by the Japanese Government.

This tour will test the value of the Japanese anime community's "sacred spot" locations by relaying the locations and models for their scenes.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28289

Wednesday, January 18, 2017

BERKSHIRE HATHAWAY SPECIALTY INSURANCE COMPANY EXPANDS TO MALAYSIA, NAMES GAITHRIE NANDRAJOG BRANCH MANAGER & KOO KANG WUU BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

BOSTON, Jan 17 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance Company (BHSI) today announced that it has received a license from Labuan FSA to provide non-life reinsurance to the Malaysian market. The company also established a new office in Kuala Lumpur and named Gaithrie Nandrajog as Branch Manager and Koo Kang Wuu as Executive & Professional Lines and Business Development Manager in Malaysia.
 

“After putting down roots in Singapore, Hong Kong, and Macau, we are pleased to further expand our operations in Asia and bring facultative reinsurance capacity and new products with the backing of our strong balance sheet to selected Malaysian insurance partners,” said Marc Breuil, President, Asia, BHSI. “With the opening of our Malaysian office, we continue to deepen our underwriting and claims capabilities in the region.” 

GENEA AND MERCK OPEN FERTILITY CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE

BANGKOK, Thailand, Jan 17 (Bernama) -- 


Australian fertility group Genea and German science and technology company Merck have today opened The Centre of Excellence for Fertility in Bangkok.

The Centre of Excellence for Fertility has been developed with the goal of creating a global benchmark for fertility treatment by standardising clinic management and laboratory protocols in IVF and therefore increasing success rates for patients worldwide.

Located close to Genea's joint venture clinic Superior ART in Bangkok, the Centre of Excellence for Fertility is a state-of-the-art, purpose-built facility. It includes laboratory space modelled on Genea's leading Embryology and Andrology labs, lecture rooms for theoretical sessions as well as quiet areas for trainee study and reflection. The close proximity to Superior ART means trainees will have exclusive access to the clinic and the opportunity to see first-hand how Genea and Merck's leading science and technology works in a clinical setting.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28283

MFPC Programme To Provide Grads Opportunities To Learn Financial Planning Process

 

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 10 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Financial Planning Council's (MFPC) Financial Planning Internship Programme will provide opportunities for graduates to learn the financial planning process, office administration and interaction with clients in the capital market.

In a statement Tuesday, MFPC said, it was for students graduating from various local institutions and universities.

Its Vice President of External Relations and Publicity, Phang Kar Yew, said the programme emphasised both practical and educational aspects of the financial system.

"It allows interns to experience what they have learned in universities while gaining personal knowledge of the financial process.

"This is a great opportunity for them to enhance their skills and knowledge in financial literacy," he said.

Interested applicants must be a registered member of MFPC and have good command of English and Bahasa Malaysia.

-- BERNAMA

PWC: CEO CONFIDENCE RISES DESPITE NEW RISKS AND UNCERTAINTY

-Confidence in company growth rises

-Fifty two per cent of CEOs plan to increase number of jobs

-Concerns about over regulation and lack of key skills at record levels

-CEOs feel globalisation has done little to solve income inequality

DAVOS, Switzerland, Jan 17 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- While CEOs around the world feel they have plenty to worry about in the year ahead, their confidence in their own growth prospects and their outlook for the global economy are back on the rise.

Graphics accompanying this announcement are available at
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28285

PERFECTUS FILES CLAIM TO RECOVER LOSSES RELATED TO ALUMINUM SEIZURE

ONTARIO, Calif., Jan 17 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Perfectus Aluminum Inc. filed today a claim against the U.S. government seeking monetary damages. In its claim, Perfectus seeks reimbursement for millions of dollars in storage costs that it incurred as a result of the government’s wrongful conduct in detaining its export shipment of aluminum pallets at the Long Beach Port in California. In accordance with applicable government regulations, this claim is being made in the first instance in an administrative proceeding before the U.S. Customs Border Protection agency (the CBP), which is a prerequisite to suing for damages in federal court. 


​UBS SIGNS STRATEGIC MULTI-YEAR AGREEMENT WITH EPAM TO BOOST INNOVATION

NEWTOWN, Pa., Jan 18 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- EPAM Systems, Inc. (NYSE:EPAM), a leading global provider of product development and software engineering solutions, today announced that UBS AG, the world's largest wealth manager, has signed a multi-year strategic framework agreement. For the past nine years, UBS and EPAM have collaborated to stay at the forefront of technology, positioning UBS as a global leader in innovative financial products and services. The agreement, which is valued at over $300M, supports the bank’s strategic cost reduction program. This commitment to efficiency allows EPAM to continue to focus on innovative, end-to-end solutions, reducing time-to-market and improving ROI on technology investments.
 
“Over the past nine years, EPAM has become a key supplier in helping us meet our clients’ expectations by working closely together with UBS, while maintaining commitments to productivity and quality of delivery,” said Mike Dargan, Group Head of Information Technology, UBS. “We now look forward to evolving this valued relationship further over the coming years.”

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28296

Tuesday, January 17, 2017

IHS MARKIT NAMES BROADSOFT THE UCAAS PLATFORM GLOBAL MARKET SHARE LEADER

As cloud unified communications moves upmarket to large enterprises and towards multi-tenant cloud solutions, recent launch of BroadSoft Business positions BroadSoft to build on market leadership position
 
GAITHERSBURG, Md., Jan 16 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- BroadSoft, Inc. (NASDAQ:BSFT), has been identified by IHS Markit as the global Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) platform leader, with 38% of the total worldwide UCaaS seats running on its platforms, as of the second quarter of 2016.  According to the IHS study, the BroadSoft UCaaS global market leadership position places it ahead of its closest competitors.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/5b75496a-de76-4c22-817c-5cd09d8db1f2 

UPDATE ON PERFECTUS' SHIPMENT FROM PORT OF LONG BEACH

ONTARIO, Calif., Jan 16 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Perfectus Aluminum Inc. would like to clarify recent reports regarding export of our product at the Port of Long Beach in California.

Perfectus has learned this morning through media reports of the seizure of formerly detained product by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) at the Port of Long Beach. We are surprised to learn about this development as CBP-after inspection-previously released a significant portion of previously detained shipments containing identical product.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28279

AUTHENTICITY AND WELLNESS AS A STATUS SYMBOL AMONG THE TOP 10 GLOBAL CONSUMER TRENDS FOR 2017


LONDON, Jan 16 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The top 10 consumer trends for 2017 were revealed today by market research company Euromonitor International.
 
According to the report, ‘Top 10 Global Consumer Trends for 2017’, authenticity is a standout consumer value in 2017, heralded by everyone from changemakers and celebrities to supermarkets and chefs. In the conscious debate about what actually counts as authentic, companies make efforts to ensure authenticity is part of this reach for the real. Examples vary from Airbnb’s Guidebooks feature, which lets owners share local information, to food apps helping consumers know more about what they’re buying, and tour operators who promote their unplugged vacations to help consumers get away from “synthetic” digital life.

“Consumers are now more demanding of products, services and brands than ever before and are using digital tools to articulate and fulfil their needs. They want authenticity in what they buy and expect elements of personalisation in mass produced as well as upscale items”, states author, Euromonitor International’s Consumer Trends Editor, Daphne Kasriel-Alexander. 

Monday, January 16, 2017

SAMMY NETWORKS STARTS DISTRIBUTING "RAMEN SOUL," ENGLISH VERSION OF ITS POPULAR SMARTPHONE RAMEN SHOP MANAGEMENT GAME "RAMEN TAMASHII" WITH OVER 5 MILLION DOWNLOADS

TOKYO, Jan 13 (Bernama-AsiaNet) --

In response to the ramen boom overseas in recent years, Sammy Networks Co., Ltd. started distributing on Jan. 12, 2017, the English version of its popular smartphone ramen shop management game "Ramen Tamashii," which has hit five million downloads in Japan, simultaneously for iPhones (through the App Store) and Android devices (through the Google Play Store) under the title of "Ramen Soul."
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28273

RedHill Biopharma Provides 2017 Semi-Annual Business Update


TEL-AVIV, Israel, Jan. 13, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RedHill Biopharma Ltd. (NASDAQ:RDHL) (TASE:RDHL) (“RedHill” or the “Company”), a specialty biopharmaceutical company primarily focused on the development and commercialization of late clinical-stage, proprietary, orally-administered, small molecule drugs for gastrointestinal and inflammatory diseases and cancer, today provided an update on key programs, potential milestones and estimated timelines.

Micha Ben Chorin, RedHill’s CFO, said: “We are heading into 2017 with important potential catalysts in the coming months and with several ongoing Phase III and Phase II programs for gastrointestinal indications. Following the recently announced U.S. co-promotion agreement for Donnatal®1, RedHill is advancing its strategic transition into a revenue-generating, gastrointestinal-focused, specialty pharmaceutical company with commercial presence in the U.S. This transition is planned to support potential future commercialization of RedHill’s Phase III-stage gastrointestinal drugs, if approved by the FDA. We are backed by strong institutional investors and maintain a debt-free balance sheet with approximately $70 million in cash, allowing us to continue to diligently execute our plans.”


SOURCE : RedHill Biopharma Ltd. 

Saturday, January 14, 2017

IKIM'S 25TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 12 (Bernama) -- The Institute of Islamic Understanding Malaysia (IKIM) will celebrate the 25th anniversary of its establishment on the 18 February 2017 or 21 Jamadilawal 1438H. IKIM was established on this date and was registered as a company limited by guarantee under the Companies Act 1965.

IKIM was established with the primary aim of making Islam better understood. Its objectives include: to conduct research and consultancy from the point of view of spirituality, to provide a forum for Muslim and non-Muslim scholars to discuss and analyse various issues, to create awareness and in-depth understanding of current issues as well as to be a source of information to Muslims and non-Muslims at the local and global levels.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28262

Friday, January 13, 2017

SHOPPERS AT THE OCEANIA MALL TAKE ELEVATOR THROUGH WORLD'S TALLEST CYLINDRICAL AQUARIUM DESIGNED AND BUILT BY INTERNATIONAL CONCEPT MANAGEMENT




MOSCOW, Jan 12 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The world’s tallest cylindrical aquarium housing an elevator ride and walk-through tunnel debuted at the new Oceania Mall in Moscow, Russia. The 24 meter tall acrylic aquarium designed and built by International Concept Management (ICM), is now the focal point for the state-of-the-art shopping center in Russia’s capital city.

Photo: http://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/82154eae-d021-4cfa-afb6-8ec9942fa03c 

ICM designed the aquarium to offer an engaging experience and serve as the centerpiece for shoppers at the mall. To achieve this, ICM designed and built an aquarium that would be architecturally stunning, yet completely immerse guests in an underwater environment. 

SAMMY NETWORKS STARTS DISTRIBUTING "RAMEN SOUL," ENGLISH VERSION OF ITS POPULAR SMARTPHONE RAMEN SHOP MANAGEMENT GAME "RAMEN TAMASHII" WITH OVER 5 MILLION DOWNLOADS

TOKYO, Jan 13 (Bernama-AsiaNet) --

In response to the ramen boom overseas in recent years, Sammy Networks Co., Ltd. started distributing on Jan. 12, 2017, the English version of its popular smartphone ramen shop management game "Ramen Tamashii," which has hit five million downloads in Japan, simultaneously for iPhones (through the App Store) and Android devices (through the Google Play Store) under the title of "Ramen Soul."
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28273

RedHill Biopharma Announces QIDP Fast-Track Designation Granted by FDA to RHB-104 for Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Infections



TEL-AVIV, Israel, Jan. 12, 2017 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- RedHill Biopharma Ltd. (NASDAQ:RDHL) (TASE:RDHL) (“RedHill” or the “Company”), a specialty biopharmaceutical company primarily focused on the development and commercialization of late clinical-stage, proprietary, orally-administered, small molecule drugs for gastrointestinal and inflammatory diseases and cancer, today announced that RHB-104 has been granted Qualified Infectious Disease Product (QIDP) designation by the U.S. FDA for the treatment of Nontuberculous Mycobacteria (NTM) infections. The QIDP designation was granted under the FDA's Generating Antibiotic Incentives Now (GAIN) Act, which is intended to encourage development of new antibiotic drugs for the treatment of serious or life-threatening infections.

The granted QIDP designation allows RedHill to benefit from Fast-Track status, with an expedited development pathway for RHB-104 for the treatment of NTM infections, as well as Priority Review, which provides for a shorter review time by the FDA of a future potential marketing application. If approved for the treatment of NTM infections, RHB-104 would also receive an additional five years of U.S. market exclusivity on top of the standard exclusivity period.     

RHB-104 is a proprietary and potentially groundbreaking antibiotic combination therapy in oral capsule formulation, with potent intracellular, anti-mycobacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. 

COLLIERS INTERNATIONAL EXPANDS IN DENMARK

Acquires market-leading Colliers Denmark affiliate to strengthen global platform

TORONTO, Jan 13 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Leading global commercial real estate services firm Colliers International Group Inc. (NASDAQ:CIGI) (TSX:CIGI) announced today that it has acquired a controlling interest in Colliers International Denmark (“Colliers Denmark”). Senior management of Colliers Denmark will retain the balance of the equity under Colliers International’s unique enterprise partnership model. The acquisition of Colliers Denmark further strengthens Colliers International’s operations in Europe and provides a strong platform for future growth in the important Nordic region. The terms of the transactions were not disclosed.


Thursday, January 12, 2017

RADWARE RESEARCH FINDS DATA LOSS IS TOP CYBER-ATTACK CONCERN

Radware's Global Application and Network Security Report 2016-2017 Finds Ransom Was The #1 Motivation Behind Cyber-Attacks, Malware Was the Most Frequent Type of Attack, and IoT Botnets are a Major Concern

MAHWAH, N.J., Jan 11 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Radware® (NASDAQ:RDWR), a leading provider of cyber security and application delivery solutions ensuring the digital user experience for applications in virtual, cloud, and software-defined data centers, has found that hackers and companies agree on one thing: Data is lucrative. Radware's Global Application and Network Security Report 2016-2017 revealed that 49% of businesses confirmed being the subject of a cyber-ransom campaign in 2016. What's more, 27% of IT professionals surveyed chose data leakage or loss as a key concern when faced with a cyber-attack, while only 19% chose service outage, 16% selected reputation loss, and just 9% cited customer or partner loss.

The full report identifies 2016's major attack trends, outlines industry preparedness, and gives insider views from the front lines to the corner office. Among the biggest trends identified for the current report coverage period:
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=28248