Thursday, February 28, 2019

GET YOUR BEAUTY ON AT SUNWAY PYRAMID!

Let’s take a stroll down Sunway Pyramid’s Beauty Walk, featuring first in Malaysia flagship stores! 
 
 
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 28 (Bernama) -- Looking to get your fix on the newest and most sought after beauty and skincare products? Look no further! Located strategically on the Ground Floor of Sunway Pyramid, the Beauty Walk houses international brands and first-in-Malaysia flagship stores like Estée Lauder, Innisfree, Laneige, Etude House, and welcomes new additions like Yves Saint Laurent and Shiseido! You will be spoilt for choice at Sunway Pyramid!
 
Continuing its legacy as Malaysia’s first thematic mall, Sunway Pyramid continues to refresh its offerings to shoppers with these curated offerings. The Beauty Walk is home to renowned international brands such as Chanel, Dior, Sephora, Shu Uemura, NYX, Caudalie, and more. Trendy pathfinders and lipstick benches have been placed at the Beauty Walk area to make the area a little more glamourous.
 
As retail shifts towards creating rich experiences, beauty flagship stores are no longer solely about the traditional display of products. Brands such as Laneige, Innisfree, Etude House, Estée Lauder, and more have recognised the importance of engaging the consumer via innovative retail elements in their stores; such as the installation of live make-up mirrors where customers can try visualise full beauty looks in real-time, personalised and customisable beauty products, and interactive beauty playground elements featuring wearable VR tech, to name a few.
 
The diversity of beauty brands at the mall are endless! From the latest looks from Korea, Japan, and even France, Sunway Pyramid’s Beauty Walk has all your beauty needs!
 
“As the saying goes, beauty is in the eye of the beholder. The Beauty Walk was exclusively created for beauty enthusiasts of all ages to experience, play and have fun with the variety of brands while finding their unique inspiration and aspirations,” said Kevin Tan, Chief Operating Officer of Sunway Malls. “Top international brands recognise Sunway Pyramid as a major destination for local shoppers and tourists alike, and their presence in the mall here proves it.”
 
With over 1,000 specialty shops throughout the mall including international fashion, beauty, sports and lifestyle, gadgets, toys and much more, shoppers will be spoilt for choice!

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=33903

Toshiba one-gate logic devices support low voltage operation

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 28 (Bernama) -- Toshiba Electronic Devices & Storage Corporation (Toshiba) has launched a line-up of 31 single power supply one-gate logic devices supporting low voltage operation.
The volume production and shipments begin today.
The new 7UL1G series is suitable and support down translation to 0.9V, while the 7UL1T series support up translation from 1.8V to 3.3V, allowing users to easily design voltage-level translation used for data communication control on devices with multiple power supply systems.
The 7UL1G series devices operate with a 0.9V to 3.6V power supply, and their input terminals are 3.6V-tolerant while 7UL1T series devices operate with a power supply of 2.3V to 3.6V, and their input threshold voltage are set to 50 per cent or less of the power supply voltage.
According to a statement, Toshiba’s current products require a level shifter with two power supplies to implement up translation for a low voltage system of 3.3V or less.
The 7UL1T series allow users to implement voltage-level translation with a single power supply, enabling design of voltage-level translation circuits with no concerns on the power-on sequence or voltage restriction between the two power supplies.
Toshiba is among the leading general device companies, and offers customers and business partners outstanding solutions in discrete semiconductors, system LSIs and HDD. More details on https://toshiba.semicon-storage.com.
-- BERNAMA

JOHNSON MATTHEY AND LITHIUM WERKS SIGN LONG-TERM LFP BATTERY MATERIALS SUPPLY AGREEMENT

HENGELO, The Netherlands, Feb 28 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --Johnson Matthey (JM), a global leader in science that makes the world cleaner and healthier, has entered into a long-term battery materials supply agreement with energy storage and battery company Lithium Werks.

Under the agreement, which will start 1 April 2019 and run for five years, JM will supply its lithium iron phosphate (LFP) battery cathode material manufactured at its facility in Changzhou, China.

The cathode material is a key component in battery cells produced by Lithium Werks, for a range of applications, including material handling, large motive, maritime and energy storage.

Through incorporating JM’s advanced LFP technology into Lithium Werks’ batteries, both companies are excited to work together to support the growing demand from industry and consumers for higher performing energy storage technologies. 

Commenting on the agreement, Alan Nelson, Chief Technology Officer and Chief Executive of JM’s Battery Materials business said: “We are pleased to enter into this agreement with Lithium Werks to supply our LFP.  We look forward to developing our relationship further as JM continues to execute its strategy of break out growth in battery materials.”

Commenting on the agreement, T. Joseph Fisher III, Chief Executive Officer, Lithium Werks said: “Having a secure long-term supply of cathode material from a solid supplier such as Johnson Matthey will provide additional certainty to our customers, and enable the transition to clean and sustainable renewable energy.”

About Johnson Matthey
Johnson Matthey is a global leader in science that enables a cleaner and healthier world. With over 200 years of sustained commitment to innovation and technological breakthroughs, we improve the performance, function and safety of our customers’ products. Our science has a global impact in areas such as low emission transport, pharmaceuticals, chemical processing and making the most efficient use of the planet’s natural resources. Today more than 14,000 Johnson Matthey professionals collaborate with our network of customers and partners to make a real difference to the world around us. For more information, visit www.matthey.com.

Inspiring science, enhancing life 

For more information please contact: 
Rebecca Williams at Johnson Matthey 
+44 (0) 20 7269 8400
jmpr@matthey.com

About Lithium Werks
Lithium Werks is a fast-growing global lithium-ion battery company, headquartered in Hengelo, the Netherlands, with production facilities in China and offices and warehousing facilities in the Netherlands, the US, the UK and Norway. Lithium Werks provides cells, modules and energy management systems for material handling, large motive, maritime and energy storage.

Media.Relations@LithiumWerks.com
Jorn Madslien +44 (0)28 9084 5411

Investor.Relations@LithiumWerks.com
Bart Morselt +31 (0) 74 820 0010 

SOURCE : Lithium Werks

Wednesday, February 27, 2019

Eventbrite gets ticket to foray into Singapore's event market


KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 27 (Bernama) -- Global ticketing and event technology platform, Eventbrite has expanded into the Asian market with the launch of its first localised platform in Singapore.

The launch in the island republic is the company’s first foray into Asia’s booming events market, follows the sizeable organic growth and adoption of Eventbrite in the Asia Pacific region.

The localised platform at its website (eventbrite.sg) will empower Singaporean event creators with innovative solutions to help them create experiences and sell even more tickets, including curated local content, seamless native checkout and payment processing in Singapore Dollars.

Eventbrite Asia Pacific General Manager, Phil Silverstone said Singapore was a nation where live experiences were deeply woven into the cultural fabric.

“From its dynamic arts festivals to its world-famous food scene, there is always something new and exciting to do in the Lion City; and it is a market we view as strategic to Eventbrite’s long-term success in the Asia Pacific region," he said.

Based on research conducted recently by Roy Morgan, in conjunction with Eventbrite, 95 per cent of Singaporeans attended an event in the past 12 months, with 44 per cent intending to attend more events next year.

To date, Eventbrite has experienced strong growth in Singapore, powering more than 90,000 events in the country since the platform’s inception.

Having launched its operations in 2006, Eventbrite was founded by Julia Hartz, Kevin Hartz and Renaud Visage. The company has more than 1,000 employees in 14 offices worldwide. More details at www.eventbrite.com.

-- BERNAMA

Tuesday, February 26, 2019

Mind your indigenous languages: international conference in June, British Columbia



KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 22 (Bernama) -- As indigenous languages worldwide continue to disappear at an alarming rate, a conference on indigenous languages will be held in June in Canada.

Approximately, 40 per cent of the estimated 6,700 languages spoken worldwide are in danger of disappearing.

To address this issue, the three-day International Conference on Indigenous Languages 2019 will be held, beginning June 24, in British Columbia (BC).

The event is the collaboration of the First Peoples’ Cultural Foundation and the First Peoples’ Cultural Council, in partnership with the Canadian Commission for UNESCO.

Indigenous leaders and language experts, speakers, learners and advocates worldwide will celebrate, honour and share expertise in indigenous language reclamation, revitalisation and maintenance as well as learn about successful language projects in BC.

The conference aims to provide participants with practical skills and knowledge to support the indigenous language revitalisation work they are leading in their communities and organisations, according to a statement.

Multiple workshop streams such as practical training in indigenous language immersion, archiving and documentation techniques; language policy and legislation; language revitalisation programme planning; models for language revitalisation and education; language and technology; and storytelling will be conducted.

The United Nations has declared 2019 as the Year of Indigenous Languages as initiative to raise international attention on the critical loss of indigenous languages and the need to preserve, revitalise, promote and mobilise urgent and right action to protect them.

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

-- BERNAMA

Monday, February 25, 2019

SMBC appoints Kainaka as president/CEO

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 25 (Bernama) -- SMBC Malaysia has appointed Tetsuya Kainaka as president/chief executive officer effective Jan 23, 2019.

Prior to the appointment, Kainaka was general manager of SMBC’s Global Client Business Department based at the bank’s headquarters in Tokyo, where he managed the non-Japanese multinational clients’ businesses based in Japan, SMBC said in a statement today.

Previously, Kainaka spent three years each in North and South America, managing the corporate banking department from New York and then moving to Brazil to oversee business planning and promotion and the treasury business in Banco Sumitomo Mitsui Brasileiro S.A., Sao Paulo Brazil (a 100 per cent subsidiary of SMBC in Brazil).

-- BERNAMA

MGRC, Clinipath announce affordable genetic screening test for breast, ovarian cancers


KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 25 (Bernama) -- Malaysian Genomics Resource Centre Berhad (MGRC) and subsidiary, Clinipath Sdn Bhd have announced the availability of Dtect BRCA+, an affordable genetic screening test that examines key genes associated with hereditary breast and ovarian cancers.

According to a statement, positive results from Dtect BRCA+ may identify a need for regular, pathology surveillance to catch either of these diseases early when they are easiest to treat, and may also be useful to encourage positive lifestyle changes to mitigate the risk of hereditary breast cancer or ovarian cancer from occurring.

Early detection and treatment of breast cancer and ovarian cancer (at Stage 1) can led to a five-year relative survival rate of 87.5 per cent and 82.8 per cent, respectively, according to a Health Ministry study.

The study on cancer incidence and survival rates published by the ministry in 2018, which was observed at any age above 40, also found that the mortality rate for breast cancer was 43.3 per cent, while it was 52.9 per cent for ovarian cancer.

Symptoms for breast cancer may include swelling of all or part of a breast, skin irritation, thickening of the nipple or breast skin and abnormal nipple discharge while symptoms for ovarian cancer may include abdominal bloating, indigestion, increased urge to urinate, constipation and menstrual irregularities.

The public-listed healthcare company, MGRC and Clinipath continue to work together to make comprehensive pathology services, and the latest in genetic testing for doctors to improve the lives of patients in Malaysia and the region.

-- BERNAMA

Canada-based OMERS steers into India with maiden infrastructure investment

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 25 (Bernama) -- Canada-based OMERS Infrastructure, a global investor in infrastructure assets on behalf of OMERS, has acquired a 22.4 per cent interest in IndInfravit Trust (IndInfravit) in India, for a total consideration of INR 8.7 billion (C$160 million) (C$1 = RM3.10).
IndInfravit holds a portfolio of five operational toll road concessions which were initially constructed and operated by L&T Infrastructure Development Projects Limited (L&T IDPL), a subsidiary of Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T), a leading construction company in India.
According to a statement, the five roads operate in some of the Indian republic’s most economically vibrant states and support the country’s growing economy.
IndInfravit is a platform well placed to play a key role in the future through additional investments in the road infrastructure in India. It is listed on the National Stock Exchange of India Limited and BSE Limited.
“The investment in IndInfravit marks not only our first infrastructure investment in India, but also demonstrates our commitment to invest in the Asia Pacific region following our office opening in Singapore in 2018,” said OMERS Infrastructure Executive Vice-President and Global Head, Ralph Berg.
“Our investment in IndInfravit aligns with our strategy to diversify our portfolio and generate value for OMERS plan members. At the same time, we will participate in the expansion of the Indian economy by investing into crucial infrastructure,” he added.
L&T IDPL sponsored the IndInfravit Trust and is also acting as its Project Manager. Its subsidiary is acting as Investment Manager for IndInfravit.
For more information, contact https://www.omersinfrastructure.com.

-- BERNAMA

Friday, February 22, 2019

Women entrepreneurs empowered via ASEAN-Japan Linkage Programme



KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 19 (Bernama) – The ASEAN-Japan Centre (AJC) recently organised the 3rd ASEAN-Japan Women Entrepreneurs’ Linkage Program (AJWELP), co-hosted by SME Corporation Malaysia here.

The governments of the ASEAN Member States and Japan are committed to promote development of micro, small and medium enterprises, including women entrepreneurs’ empowerment to enhance more gender equality societies.

To boost the effort, AJC launched AJWELP, a support programme for women entrepreneur start-ups in ASEAN Member States to forge linkages among start-ups, companies and mentors.

AJWELP was first held in Manila, the Philippines in 2016, followed by Jakarta, Indonesia in 2017.

Malaysia’s Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail delivered a keynote address, sharing facts of women-owned SMEs in Malaysia and how the Malaysian Government supported them.

Dr Wan Azizah, who is also women, family and community development minister, said the programme would have greater success in empowering women within the ASEAN region as it was already in its third consecutive year of implementation.

The programme highlighted a business presentation where start-ups from the 10 ASEAN Member States presented their businesses and challenges. Representatives of companies and mentors, who are also senior entrepreneurs attended the presentation.

After the event, company representatives decided which start-ups they would support, in line with company businesses.

The co-founder of Kloth Malaysia, Nik Suzila Nik Hassan is the finalist for Malaysia. Kloth Malaysia is a textile recycling company.

Meanwhile, Hernan Corporation Sdn Bhd Group Chief Executive Officer, Anna Teo is the Malaysian mentor in the programme.

AJC is an inter-governmental organisation, established by the ASEAN Member States and Japan in 1981. It has been promoting exports from ASEAN to Japan while revitalising investment, tourism as well as people-to-people exchanges.

-- BERNAMA

SOLARWINDS POSITIONED AS THE ONLY CHALLENGER IN 2019 GARTNER MAGIC QUADRANT FOR NETWORK PERFORMANCE MONITORING AND DIAGNOSTICS

SOLARWINDS POSITIONED AS THE ONLY CHALLENGER IN 2019 GARTNER MAGIC QUADRANT FOR NETWORK PERFORMANCE MONITORING AND DIAGNOSTICS

WWF REPORT REVEALS STAGGERING EXTENT OF HUMAN IMPACT ON PLANET

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 20 (Bernama) -- Human activity is pushing the planet’s natural systems that support life on earth to the edge, WWF’s Living Planet Report 2018 revealed.

It also presents a sobering picture of the impact of human activity on the world’s wildlife, forests, oceans, rivers and climate,  hence the call for an urgent need for the global community to collectively rethink and redefine how they value, protect and restore nature.

“We are withdrawing from our natural resources’ ‘savings account’ insatiably, leaving less for the next generation to live with. The disappearing fish in the sea, the changing climate, our empty forests are all the symptoms,” WWF-Malaysia Conservation Director Dr Henry Chan said in a statement here, today.

According to Chan, the latest report had indicated a decline on global populations of fish, birds, mammals, amphibians and reptiles, on average, by 60 per cent between 1970 and 2014, where the top threats to species identified in the report were directly linked to human activities, including habitat loss and degradation and overexploitation of wildlife.

“In Malaysia, marine turtles are facing threats to their survival, the Sumatran rhino is already extinct in the wild, and species like the Malayan tiger, gaur and sambar deer are in peril,” he said.

The report also looks at the importance of pollinators and how a changing climate, intensive agricultural practices, invasive species and emerging diseases have affected their abundance, diversity and health.

“In tropical areas, our dependency on pollinators is up to 98 per cent for the production of fruits; therefore, Malaysia has a good reason to be worried.

“As a country, we need to adopt responsible production and consumption of commodities. All forest areas that have been designated for production forest should be managed in accordance with certification standards that call for a balance of ecological, social and economic needs,” he said.

Chan also called for the mandatory certification requirement for palm oil production in Malaysia to be extended for production of seafood, fish, and shrimp to curb further decline of the marine lives.

-- BERNAMA

Thursday, February 21, 2019

Toshiba supplies microcontroller for Thundersoft´s MCU boards

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 21 (Bernama) -- Toshiba Electronic Devices & Storage Corporation (Toshiba) has begun supplying ‘TMPM3HQFDFG’ microcontroller for use in general-purpose MCU boards manufactured by Chinese platform technology provider, Thundersoft.
The microcontroller is Arm® Cortex®-M core-based in the TXZ™ family’s ‘M3H group’ developed for consumer and industrial equipment, according to a statement.
Thundersoft’s general-purpose MCU board integrating TXZ™ family microcontrollers are compatible with the Arm Mbed™ OS. It will be available on the China Taobao website and Thundersoft’s corporate website in other regions, starting this month.
Customers can start development immediately after the introduction of the MCU board, using an online compiler and other development environments provided free of charge by Arm.
The board is also equipped with Arduino compatible connectors and SeeedGrove connectors, both of which are widely used in the industry, and allows rapid system development with numerous commercially available shields and sensors.
Toshiba supports a wide range of customers in speeding up time to market for products and expand its semiconductor business by reflecting the needs of customers to its product development.
For more information, contact http://toshiba.semicon-storage.com.
-- BERNAMA

Internet fraud buster Jumio among World´s Most Innovative Companies

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 21 (Bernama) -- Jumio, the leading AI-powered trusted identity as service provider and protector of online ecosystem against fraud and bad actors, has been named in Fast Company’s annual list of the World’s Most Innovative Companies for 2019.
According to a statement, Jumio is honoured as the 29th-ranked company globally and is second in the Security category.
Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies list honours businesses making the most profound impact on both industry and culture, showcasing a variety of ways to thrive in today’s volatile world.
Jumio’s innovations, driven by Jumio Authentication, augmented intelligence, machine learning, 3D liveness detection and a seamless user experience, enables the company to become the leader in online identity proofing and ongoing authentication.
These innovations have led Jumio to become the most accurate solution in the market and one of the key leaders in both deterring and detecting online fraud as it has verified more than 160 million identities to date, issued by over 200 countries and territories.

Jumio supports large organisations across an array of sectors and continues to grow as more companies select the Internet fraud buster to protect their online businesses.

The World’s Most Innovative Companies is Fast Company’s signature franchise and one of its most highly anticipated editorial efforts of the year. It provides both a snapshot and road map for the future of innovation across the most dynamic sectors of the economy.

The Most Innovative Companies list issue (March-April 2019) is now available online at https://www.fastcompany.com/MIC.

For more information, contact https://www.jumio.com.

-- BERNAMA

Wednesday, February 20, 2019

VistaJet to fly Scuderia Ferrari team during F1 season


KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 20 (Bernama) -- VistaJet, a global business aviation company, has partnered with the Scuderia Ferrari Mission Winnow team to officially provide private jet travel for the 2019 Formula One World Championship.

The aviation company will support the team to optimise travel and transfer times throughout the 2019 Formula One season.

In an industry where speed and efficiency are fundamental, the team will further utilise time off-track to arrive in optimum condition.

According to VistaJet Founder and Chairman, Thomas Flohr said the aviation company will provide the team with seamless travel to ensure their focus is on the competition.

“A new season is starting, a new team will be driving, and we will all be there cheering for Sebastian Vettel, Charles Leclerc and all at Scuderia Ferrari Mission Winnow,” he said.

Having raced competitively with Ferrari for many years and as an official driver in the FIA World Endurance Championship, Flohr knows the demands of racing and the intense focus required to perform under such pressure.

With his Ferrari 488 GTE, he achieved second place at the 24 hours of Le Mans 2018, alongside fellow drivers, Giancarlo Fisichella and Francesco Castellacci.

More details on the partnership at www.vistajet.com/ferrari

-- BERNAMA

Dubai Airports, XDubai sizzle with world's longest skydive swoop

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 20 (Bernama) – Dubai Airports and action sports brand XDubai have collaborated to deliver an incredible one-of-a-kind stunt by Emirati athlete and skydiver, Mohammed Baker.
Dubai Airports manages the operation and development of both of Dubai’s airports – Dubai International (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC).
The partnership aims to position the world’s busiest international airport as a major destination for culture, hospitality and entertainment.
The stunning showcase was also captured in a short film released by both Dubai Airports and XDubai. The film shows what is believed to be the world’s longest skydive swoop under a fixed structure.
As showcased in the video, Mohammed Baker jumps out of a helicopter with a parachute emblazoned with the new DXB brand, gliding through the Dubai sky before performing one of the world’s longest skydive swoops - measuring 112 metres - under the Sheikh Zayed Road bridge.
Dubai Airports Vice-President (Marketing & Corporate Communication), Anita Mehra said the company aimed to create the best of experiences for its esteemed customers, one that connected different cultures and captured the city’s true spirit.
“Our partnership with XDubai and this stunt are in line with that direction, symbolising Dubai’s spirit of adventure and ambition,” she added.
XDubai General Manager Mohammed Javad said: “Both Dubai Airports and XDubai are products of the emirate’s ambitions - to show the world just what is possible with innovation, collaboration and determination.”
The stunt was showcased at an official event attended by Prime Minister and Vice-President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Mohammed Rashid Al Maktoum, who is also Ruler of Dubai; Dubai Airports Chairman, Sheikh Ahmed Saeed Al Maktoum; and, Dubai Airports Chief Executive Officer, Paul Griffiths.
-- BERNAMA

Hytera, the trusted communication companion wherever you are

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 20 (Bernama) -- Hytera, a leading provider of innovative Professional Mobile Radio (PMR) has unveiled a PoC radio series built on an extensively customised Android operating system and equipped with high-end hardware platforms.

The PoC radios provide voice, text, image, video and other multimedia services over 2G, 3G and 4G and WiFi public networks which meet a wide range of requirements from end-users in security, logistics, transportation, smart industrial parks, railways and airports, ports, hypermarkets and other vertical industries.

Last year, Hytera launched its first PoC radio, PNC370 which attracted wide attention in the industry. The PNC370 enhances user’s go-everywhere communications and collaboration, as well as offered role-based system management and flexible dispatching functionality.

With Hytera PoC radios, users can either buy additional hardware to build their own networks for private management, or rent cloud servers for flexible management.

The web-based dispatch platform makes individual call, group call and temporary group call possible, as well as multimedia (text, image, voice) transfer and real-time video calling which can also be used in combination with Google Maps to enable real-time GPS positioning.

Hytera also has developed a P-PoC multimedia communication system which uses the Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology to support trunked radio services for the user to enjoy individual call, group call and abundant trunked radio services in a short time.

The company will debut its PNC550, a smart PoC radio with a five-inch touchscreen, combining both the features of 4G smartphones and PMR radio at MWC Barcelona next week. For more information, visit http://www.hytera.com.

-- BERNAMA

​TOP MOBILITY FIRMS COMBINE TO FORM STERLING LEXICON

​TOP MOBILITY FIRMS COMBINE TO FORM STERLING LEXICON

BENXI PLAYS A "SONG OF ICE AND FIRE"

SHENYANG, China, Feb. 20, 2019 /Xinhua-AsiaNet/ --

Just during the Chinese lunar New Year of this year, tourists over the whole country had an ice and snow feast in Benxi, Liaoning province. According to Benxi Municipal Government, Benxi has created an innovative ice economy to successfully solve the common tourism problem of "half year hot, half year idle" in northern cities, transforming "cold resources" into "hot economy", and playing a "song of ice and fire".

On Feb. 13th, 2019, Benxi Ice and Snow Carnival was held in Huaxi Mu International Hot Spring Resort. Chen Kefeng and his friends, tourists from Shenzhen, Guangdong province, had been "fully armed" on the ski slopes. "We specially come here for this big drop, which is international level," Chen Kefeng said.

"It's funny that your wet hair will freeze hard in no time when you are soaking in the hot springs," said a tourist from Jinan, Shandong province. The general manager of operations of Benxi Huaxi Mu International Hot Spring Resort, Song Zhenglin said that a large number of southern tourists would come here for skiing, soaking in hot springs and enjoying the snow in every winter. Especially during every Spring Festival, all rooms would be booked up early.

In recent years, it has become a trend to soak hot springs, go skiing, drink sheep soup and eat Manchu hotpot in Benxi. Relying on the unique geological and ecological resources, Benxi has gradually formed a multi-point blooming situation of the ice and snow economy, driving the development of the ice-snow tourism industry cluster. There are nearly 20 resorts that feature skiing and hot springs in Benxi.

The freezing world of ice and snow is bringing new economic vitality to Benxi, turning the frozen and snow-covered land into a mountain of gold and silver. According to the 2018 ice-snow tourism data, Benxi had received about 7.702 millions tourists, and the total tourism revenue reached 6.24 billion yuan.

The municipal party committee secretary of Benxi, Jiang Xiaolin, told the reporter that Benxi has created an "ice-snow and hot spring" model, which has attracted a large number of tourists all over the country and significantly increased the tourism revenue. Taking the Huaxi Mu International Hot Spring Resort as an example, it invested more than 2 billion yuan in building high-end hot spring towns in remote mountain villages, which promotes the rural revitalization and drives the increase of villagers' income and prosperity.

Source: Benxi Municipal Government

Image Attachments Links:
http://asianetnews.net/view-attachment?attach-id=330151

HSBC empowers Sarawak's underprivileged students with financial management programme

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 19 (Bernama) -- HSBC Bank Malaysia Berhad and HSBC Amanah Malaysia Berhad (HSBC Malaysia) completed the ‘Clothes of Confidence: Money and Me’ (CoC) programme to support the financial empowerment of underprivileged students in Sarawak.

The six-day programme, in collaboration with PINTAR Foundation (PINTAR) was aimed at instilling the right skills and attitudes whilst providing the tools needed for the future generation to manage money effectively.

One hundred form four students from Sekolah Menengah Kebangsaan (SMK) Tabakang in Serian, Sarawak participated in the financial empowerment and social entrepreneurship workshop to enhance their financial capabilities.

The workshop was specifically targeted at form four students from the B40 income level families to enable them to get a good understanding of basic money management skills as they plan their move into adulthood in the next two years.

“Providing our youth with knowledge on financial literacy is a key part of our sustainability strategy on future skills. Through this project, we hope to equip the young from the communities we serve with the skills, attitudes and tools to be financially capable, managing their money wisely and effectively,” said HSBC Malaysia Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Milne.

“We hope participants will be inspired to become entrepreneurs by leveraging on their increased financial skills, passion and amazing talent and in return, to share their financial knowledge and contribute back to their communities,” he said.

The CoC programme is one of HSBC’s Financial Empowerment projects in Sarawak, with more children from different areas invited to participate and educated via the similar module in the coming months, including students from SMK Mendamit in Limbang.

-- BERNAMA

Tuesday, February 19, 2019

Align Technology´s imaging system bites into tooth internal structure in real time

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 19 (Bernama) -- Align Technology, Inc has launched the iTero Element 5D Imaging System, providing a new comprehensive approach to clinical applications, workflows and user experience.

According to a statement, the entire iTero product family, including the newly-launched system will be showcased at the five-day, 38th International Dental Show (IDS) in Cologne, Germany, beginning March 12.

The iTero Element 5D scanner is the first integrated dental imaging system that simultaneously records 3D, intra-oral colour and near-infrared imaging (NIRI) images and enables comparison over time, using iTero TimeLapse.

The system provides doctors with powerful visualisation capabilities, including 3D impressions for restorative and orthodontic work, analysis instruments, NIRI imagery, intraoral camera imagery and many more within a full arch scan, in as little as 60 seconds!

“With this new imaging system, doctors can efficiently and effectively scan every patient at every visit and visualise treatment options together, resulting in more informed decisions for optimum oral care,” said Align Technology CTO and senior vice-president, global research and development, Zelko Relic.

“The system aids doctors in detecting and monitoring the progression of interproximal cavities above the gingiva without harmful radiation, thereby helping to ensure that their patients receive even better care,” said Align Technology, vice-president, global clinical, Dr Mitra Derakhshan.

Align Technology also offers a web-based platform, MyiTero.com that complements the comprehensive visualisation of the new system. It can be used to set up prescription before the appointment and review scans with the patient on multiple devices.

It continues to streamline workflows for dentists and laboratories (lab) with the addition of direct doctor-lab workflow which allows the scan to be automatically sent to the doctor’s lab of choice as the doctor can engage with the lab through the MyiTero.com account.

The iTero Element 5D Imaging System is commercially available in Canada, European Union countries accepting CE-Marking (excluding Greece), Switzerland, Norway, Australia, New Zealand, Hong Kong and Thailand. For more information, visit http://www.itero.com.

-- BERNAMA

Another toy story: Russ Berrie eyes global playground with Kellytoy partnership

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 15 (Bernama) -- Another toy story in the making to make someone happy.

Zag Toys, LLC, an affiliate of Jazwares LLC has formed a partnership with Kellytoy (manufacturer and distributor of plush toys and pet products) for its wholly owned-brand, Russ Berrie worldwide.

The partnership will continue the 50-plus year legacy of the Russ Berrie brand, positioning it globally as the premier plush brand on retail shelves in Fall 2019 with Kellytoy to market the brand through its worldwide distribution channels.

“By leveraging Russ Berrie and its reputation for quality and commitment to (live up to its slogan) ‘Make Someone Happy’ with Kellytoy’s global footprint, we’ll secure placement in retailers worldwide, putting Russ Berrie in the forefront of today’s plush presence at retail,” said Jazwares chief executive officer (CEO) and president, Judd Zebersky.

Meanwhile, Kellytoy CEO, Jonathan Kelly said the partnership benefitted both companies as Russ Berrie products would complement Kellytoy plush toy lines while its global distribution strength enabled the brand to penetrate new markets.

The companies will work closely on branding and product strategy to focus on both innovation and fan favourites.

The Fall 2019 Russ Berrie line will feature, but not be limited to Li’l Peepers, Yomiko Classics, Petooties Pets, MeBears, Russ Baby, Russ Trends, Russ Pet, as well as seasonal offerings (adorable plush lines for every holiday).

Jazwares is a subsidiary of Alleghany Capital Corporation, a global leader in consumer products including toys, plush, collectibles, musical instruments and consumer electronics. Details are available on https://www.jazwares.com.

-- BERNAMA

Wednesday, February 13, 2019

HARRY POTTER: HOGWARTS MYSTERY BRINGS NEW CHOICES, CHALLENGES AND COUTURE WITH FEBRUARY SIDEQUEST, THE CELESTIAL BALL

New special adventure gives players the chance to participate in a highly anticipated Hogwarts social event

LOS ANGELES, Feb 11 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) --

Jam City:

Who:
Jam City, a Los Angeles-based mobile games studio, in partnership with Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment’s Portkey Games, a label dedicated to creating new Wizarding World mobile and videogame experiences that place the player at the center of their own adventure, inspired by J.K. Rowling’s original stories.

What:
This February, in the mobile game, Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery, Hogwarts is abuzz with the social event of the season – the Celestial Ball! In this special adventure, fourth-year players and above can participate in the after-class planning and preparations for this first formal dance. Maneuvering a host of choices and social situations, players will partner with their peers in an effort to make the event a resounding, resplendent success!

In the quest, players will help other Hogwarts classmates with their own Celestial Ball aspirations. For example, the popular Hufflepuff Penny hopes to head the Decorating Committee, but the devious duo of Merula and Ismelda have set their sights on sabotage. Meanwhile, introverted classmates like Rowan require makeover tips and pep talks, to put their best foot forward at the dance.

Before the grand event, players can visit the Great Hall to mingle with classmates like Tulip, Barnaby, Rowan, Ben, Merula, Penny and others, and choose a friend to invite to the ball. With the sidequest all but complete, players will be able to choose their own outfit for the ball from a selection of looks curated by fashion-forward Ravenclaw, Andre.

Quote:
“Life at Hogwarts is filled with classes, studies, extra-curricular activities – but also social events and celebrations,” said Michael Brozman, Sr. Director of Product at Jam City. “We’re thrilled to introduce the Celestial Ball time-limited sidequest this February, giving players the opportunity to explore the excitement, choices and camaraderie of a Hogwarts school dance.”

Background:
Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery is the first mobile game where players can create their own character and experience life as a Hogwarts student. In the narrative adventure with RPG elements, players will create a personalized student avatar, attend classes, learn magical skills, and form friendships or rivalries with other students. In the game, players make pivotal decisions that influence their character’s story arc at Hogwarts. The game features a new encounter system where player decisions and actions impact their quests, allowing Harry Potter fans to create their own legacy as a witch or wizard.
 
For more details on Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery and to connect with other fans, visit www.facebook.com/HPHogwartsMystery/, www.twitter.com/HogwartsMystery, and for more information visit www.HarryPotterHogwartsMystery.com/.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=33779

Tuesday, February 12, 2019

VistaJet boosts business aviation flight safety

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 7 (Bernama) -- VistaJet announced today the adoption of Osprey Flight Solutions data-led risk assessment technology to enhance its flight operations software.

In a statement, the Malta-based company said by integrating the leading safety system, VistaJet is able to instantaneously and intuitively risk-assess every single flight directly through its proprietary operations software and support operational decision-making.

The cutting-edge integration complements VistaJet’s expert human analysis to offer the most comprehensive security and risk assessment.

Information includes the widest range of events that could impact flight performance, from local taxi strikes that may delay arrival of crew at the airport to a detailed evaluation of no-fly zones.

With a granular and real time access to data, the VistaJet team is able to measure possible delays and calibrate each flight to the most secure conditions along the safest routes, even when the aircraft is airborne.

VistaJet chief operations officer, Nick van der Meer, said: “We look at the most efficient way to fly, with safety being the core driver. By providing even more meaningful data to our in-house experts, they are able to create a smoother flight experience for our customers.

“Safety is and must always be a common goal for all aviation companies and we are proud to lead the way by adopting the most advanced innovation technologies available on the market ahead of anyone else in business aviation.”

The company is the first operator to be awarded the Diamond Safety of Flight Award by the European Business Aviation Association (EBAA) in 2016 and again in 2018, with each recognition spanning two years.

For more information, visit www.vistajet.com/safety

-- BERNAMA

Saturday, February 9, 2019

JUMIO WINS 2019 BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE GROUP INNOVATION AWARD FOR CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY

BIG recognizes Jumio for innovations that help organizations secure online business with AI-powered identity verification

PALO ALTO, Calif., Feb 7 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Jumio, the leading AI-powered trusted identity as a service provider, today announced it has been named a winner in the 2019 BIG Innovation Awards presented by the Business Intelligence Group.

Jumio’s innovations, centered around augmented intelligence, machine learning, 3D liveness detection and the user experience, have enabled the company to become the global leader in online identity verification, as it has verified more than 160 million identities to date by over 200 countries. These innovations have helped Jumio become the most accurate solution on the market and one of the key leaders in deterring and detecting online fraud.

Jumio’s mission is to make the internet a safer place by protecting the online ecosystem against fraud and bad actors. Jumio supports some of the largest organizations across an array of sectors — including financial services, sharing economy, retail, travel, digital currency and online gaming — and continues to grow as more companies want Jumio’s help to secure their online businesses.

“In today’s increasingly digitally-driven economy, businesses are conducting more transactions online and companies must be able to verify that a person’s real identity matches their online identity,” said Stephen Stuut, CEO of Jumio. “In 2018, we put innovation at the forefront of our focus, launching Jumio AI Labs to advance the creation, experimentation and at-scale deployment of machine learning and deep learning technologies to dramatically improve identity verification accuracy and speed.”

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=33757