PUTRA BUSINESS SCHOOL JOINS FORCES WITH ROYAL SELANGOR YACHT CLUB TO TACKLE KLANG RIVER POLLUTION

With unwavering dedication to community welfare, His Highness the Crown Prince of Selangor leads by example, empowering lives and fostering unity through the Klang River Cleanup programme jointly organised by Putra Business School (PBS), Royal Selangor Yacht Club (RSYC), Raja Muda Selangor International Regatta, Putra Student Association and Cuci Malaysia

 

KLANG, Sept 17 (Bernama) -- The Klang River Cleanup Project, a corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative with the tagline of “Unite to Clean, Flow to Green,” jointly organised by Putra Business School (PBS), Royal Selangor Yacht Club (RSYC), Raja Muda Selangor International Regatta, Putra Student Association and Cuci Malaysia to clean the Klang River was a success. The project joined by His Highness the Crown Prince of Selangor, Tengku Amir Shah Ibni Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah Alhaj, who is also PBS’ Chancellor. His Highness expressed his support for the project and hopes to see a cleaner river that can once again be a source of pride for Selangor.

Volunteers for the project included PBS students, alumni and staff along with its President & Chief Executive Officer, Prof. Dr. Azmawani Abd Rahman and RSYC Commodore, Mr. Ramasamy Menon. Upon arrival, they were divided into two teams to either clean the trash floating in the waterway via boats, or at the riversides. This project was supported by Harta Maintenance Sdn Bhd, BinaTuah Capital Berhad, Angkasa Khas Berhad, 3Days Nasi Lemak, Linaco Group of Companies and VG Offshore Containers International (M) Sdn Bhd.

In line with PBS’ strategic plan to nurture environmental stewardship and social responsibility, this initiative seeks to not only reduce the amount of trash polluting the river but most importantly raise public awareness of the pollution.

Volunteers for the Klang River Cleanup Project included Putra Business Schools' students, alumni, staff, and partners.

The Klang River Cleanup Project marked the beginning of a collective journey of conservation efforts by PBS, with the hope that coming generations will benefit from a cleaner, healthier Malaysia.

According to Prof. Dr. Azmawani, “This project will be the first of many, and we hope it inspires more organisations and individuals to take part in future cleanups. With increased awareness, we believe more people will adopt responsible waste disposal practices, helping reduce pollution in our nation as a whole.”

Putra Business School is an AACSB accredited higher learning institution, offering a postgraduate education in business and specialising in executive development program in leadership. In the recent QS World University Rankings Global MBA 2024, Putra Business School was ranked as number one MBA Program in Malaysia and 24th in Asia.

SOURCE: PUTRA BUSINESS SCHOOL

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Ms. Siti Badarny Hassan
Tel: 019-2194287
Email: badarny@putras.edu.my

Name: Ms. Norizan
Tel: 016-2458700
Email: norizan@putrabs.edu.my.

--BERNAMA

11X SECURES US$24 MLN TO ADVANCE AI-POWERED DIGITAL WORKERS, EXPAND GLOBAL FOOTPRINT

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 17 (Bernama) -- A pioneering AI startup transforming the modern workforce with autonomous digital workers, 11x announced closing a US$24 million Series A funding round. (US$1=RM4.29)

The round was led by Benchmark, with participation from Quiet Capital, SV Angel, Abstract Ventures, Lux Capital, Operator Partners, Visionaries, Activant, HubSpot Ventures, Project A, 20VC, 20Growth, and 20Sales.

The Series A funding will accelerate 11x’s product development pipeline, expand its team, and enhance its global market presence, particularly in the United States market, where the company has recently relocated its headquarters.

The team continues to grow there, attracting key hires from leading tech companies such as Chief Technology Officer Prabhav Jain, who is a former Head of Financial Services Engineering at Brex.

Founded in 2022 by its Chief Executive Officer Hasan Sukkar, 11x simplifies Go-to-Market (GTM) operations with AI-powered digital workers, allowing teams to focus on strategic work.

Over the past two decades, the landscape of GTM tools has become increasingly fragmented. The proliferation of specialised software, from customer relationship managements (CRMs) and marketing automation platforms to sales engagement tools and data enrichment services, has burdened revenue teams.

“Each new tool often requires its own integrations, maintenance, and training, ultimately eliminating any efficiency gains these tools were supposed to provide,” said 11x Head of Growth, Keith Fearon in a statement.

11x is redefining the workforce by developing artificial intelligence (AI)-powered digital workers that autonomously execute workflows in revenue teams. By automating roles traditionally performed by employees, these digital workers can be “hired” to handle tasks efficiently and at scale.

Earlier this year, the company launched “Alice”, an AI-powered Sales Development Representative which has gained significant traction by helping companies grow on autopilot by automating prospecting, multi-channel engagement, and personalisation at scale.

Meanwhile, the recent launch of “Jordan”, an AI phone representative focused on inbound lead qualification, has already received interest from businesses aiming to streamline their “speed to lead” processes.

-- BERNAMA

KURA SUSHI TO OPEN WORLD’S LARGEST SEATING CAPACITY REVOLVING RESTAURANT AT OSAKA EXPO

 

Perspective view (*This perspective view is for illustrative purposes only and is subject to change.) (Graphic: Business Wire)

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 13 (Bernama) -- Kura Sushi Inc, one of the world’s most popular revolving sushi chains, announced it will open a revolving sushi restaurant with 338 seats, the largest number of seats in the world for a company outlet, at the Osaka-Kansai Expo, Yumeshima, Osaka, on April 13, 2025.

In addition to having the world’s largest number of seats, the restaurant will also have the world’s longest conveyor belt, at about 135 metres long, and deliver sushi as well as other food right to the customer’s seat.

“At the Expo, our stores will be operated under the concept of ‘Revolving conveyor belt unites the world’. Under this concept, the customers will be able to enjoy representative dishes from each of the countries participating in the Expo, along with popular sushi and side dishes from our restaurants,” said its Director and General Manager of the Public Relations, Advertising and Investor Relations Division, Hiroyuki Okamoto.

The exterior walls of the restaurant will be constructed with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in mind, using plaster made from about 336,000 discarded ark clam shells.

Moreover, the walls are designed to be instantly recognisable as Kura Sushi, with a picture of tuna sushi in an “antibacterial sushi cover”, one of the company’s unique features.

The interior is designed in a modern Japanese style with a white wood base, and the design of the Kura Sushi plates on the ceiling and the model of the antibacterial sushi cover in the waiting area are eye-catching to customers.

The restaurant will also be equipped with a state-of-the-art, proprietary Kura Sushi system, which is standard at all of its restaurants in Japan, including “Smart Kura” that eliminates the need for customers to be in contact with an employee from the time they enter to the time they leave the restaurant.

Also, a new artificial intelligence camera system that constantly monitors the lanes to prevent unwanted behaviour; and a “water collection system” automatically carries finished plates back to the kitchen on a stream of water will be furnished in the restaurant.

-- BERNAMA

MAYBANK GROUP GLOBAL CR DAY 2024 EMPOWERS OVER 18,000 LIVES WORLDWIDE

Maybank Singapore in collaboration with Fei Yue Community Services (FYCS) implemented their ‘Let’s go Papazao with Maybank’ initiative for the elderlies, with the aim to promote an active lifestyle through a walkathon event, reduce social isolation, enhance community engagement and raise digital awareness.

- Over 22,000 employees worldwide commemorated the 12th Maybank Group Global CR Day

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 11 (Bernama) -- Over 22,000 Maybank employees worldwide commemorated the 12th Maybank Group Global CR Day where they made a difference to over 18,000 community members in their respective local and international locations, by continuing to play a role in empowering lives and for the environment through sustainable initiatives.

With the theme “Leading the Charge in Sustainability”, Maybank Group Global CR Day is part of the Group’s flagship employee volunteerism programme, Cahaya Kasih (CK) which is a platform that enables and empowers Maybankers throughout the Group to come together as agents of change in making positive and sustainable impact for communities, the environment and education towards a more sustainable future.

The Maybank Group Global CR Day is a day that Maybankers get the opportunity to showcase their year-long commitment towards their CK initiatives. It is believed to be one of the largest single community programme undertaken simultaneously in one day, by a Malaysian-based corporation on a global scale.

The global initiative is in line with Maybank’s Sustainability Commitments namely to improving the lives of two million households across ASEAN by 2025, and achieving one million hours per annum on sustainability and delivering one thousand significant UN SDG-related outcomes by 2025.

Maybank Group Chief Human Capital Officer of Maybank, Datuk (Dr) Nora Manaf, said that Maybank’s 12th year Global CR Day continues to display the Bank’s unprecedented commitment in not only transforming the lives of the people but also the community and the environment, aligning with the Group’s mission in Humanising Financial Services, underlined by its M25+ strategy.

“As a leading financial institution in the region, we continue to champion this large-scale corporate responsibility initiative through the power of community and collaboration. This year, via the theme “Leading the Charge in Sustainability,” our social impact programmes are designed to further alleviate the challenges and needs of the communities, led by our employees, by implementing high-impact sustainability initiatives that would improve the livelihood of the people, communities and the environment. Our primary objective to ensure that the Cahaya Kasih employee volunteerism programme consistently addresses real-world issues while equipping the underserved and unserved segments for the future. This ongoing commitment allows us to create lasting change and meaningful impact throughout the year, supported by a two-year cycle that enables us to make a difference more effectively. The programme exemplifies our dedication to making a difference, and by addressing critical issues and supporting those in need, we are contributing to a more equitable and compassionate world.”

This year, over 97 initiatives were implemented by employees across the Group, not only in Malaysia but also its offices abroad – from New York and London to Greater China and across ASEAN – coming together to demonstrate their year-long efforts with their beneficiaries.

In Kuala Lumpur, 112 volunteers from the office of Maybank’s Group Audit (MGA) collaborated with University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC) on the initiative ‘Wellbeing Empowerment to Community (WEC)’ with the aim to drive greater awareness on positive well-being by promoting a culture of care, support, good health and quality education to 100 patients residing at the Women and Children Health Complex (WCHC), UMMC. GA provided support by refurbishing and upgrading a recreational room renamed as ‘Tiger Cubs Recreational Centre’ and a meeting room located on the 8th floor of WCHC. The initiative offer patients, parents, visitors and hospital staff a space to unwind and interact, and also serves as a venue for interactive and educational activities. Additionally, GA contributed to UMMC’s ‘Sekolah Dalam Hospital Programme,’ located on the 7th floor, by supplying stationeries, reference books, and furniture to ensure sufficient learning resources for teachers and patients. The initiatives will continue with monthly activities led by volunteers, including storytelling, movie days, interactive games, financial awareness workshops, sustainability-related programs, counselling sessions, tuition and computer classes.

With the continued aim to reduce waste, conserve natural resources and promote sustainability within communities, 80 employees from Business Compliance Control Office and Strategy departments of Maybank Group Global Banking (GGB) held its second year “Think Outside the Trash” initiative in collaboration with Impactlution, a CSR event solutions company, which supports community upcycling and recycling programmes. Following last year’s Global CR Day, where teams participated in beach clean-up as well as bi-monthly trash collection and segregation initiatives at the PJ Eco Recycling Plaza, this year, volunteers learned to build modular pieces using ‘Ecobricks’ made from repurposed trash. The modular pieces will be distributed and used by communities within the Petaling Jaya area, particularly schools and housing areas. Simultaneously, six other initiatives by 10 departments within GGB executed CR initiatives in various locations in Klang Valley and Penang.

With the aim to create greater awareness on the importance of coastal conservation and reliance on its ecosystems, 392 volunteers from Maybank’s Insurance & Takaful arm, Etiqa were deployed to 9 locations in Malaysia to conduct mangrove cleaning, seeding & planting activities. A total of 1200 mangrove plants, 200 mangrove seeds & 200 forest trees were planted, benefitting local communities & broader environment stakeholders. The initiative serves to protect coastal villages from floods, storms and erosion, helping them stay safe and maintain their homes within the area. Healthy mangroves further supports seafood populations, providing fishermen with more reliable catches and income.

In other ASEAN countries, Maybank Singapore in collaboration with Fei Yue Community Services (FYCS) implemented their ‘Let’s go Papazao with Maybank’ initiative for the elderlies, with the aim to promote an active lifestyle through a walkathon event, reduce social isolation, enhance community engagement and raise digital awareness. Maybank Cambodia, initiated their ‘Uniting Through Sports: Building Stronger Communities’ programme to foster unity, promote a healthy lifestyle and encourage active participation among students.

SOURCE: Maybank Group

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Maybank Group Corporate Affairs
Name: Wan Nazdy
Tel: +6012 3517561
Email: Irwan +6019 2787719
Email: corporateaffairs@maybank.com

--BERNAMA

INTRODUCING BIGPAY LITE WALLET ON AIRASIA MOVE

· Open a BigPay Lite account in just seconds to unlock exclusive discounts & priority access to AirAsia Big Sale and more!

AirAsia MOVE launches BigPay Lite to simplify In-app payments

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 10 (Bernama) -- The AirAsia MOVE app is now further enhanced with the introduction of BigPay Lite, a simplified embedded wallet where users can create an account within seconds, and enjoy the same convenience, safety, and seamless in-app payment experience of the full BigPay wallet.

The BigPay Lite feature enables users to sign up for a BigPay account without having to exit the AirAsia MOVE app, or download a separate app.

How to sign up & pay with BigPay Lite?

What are the benefits of using BigPay Lite?

· Quick and simple sign up: Sign up for BigPay Lite account at your fingertips without having to download another app.
· Easier AirAsia MOVE Payments: Reload and make payments within the app without needing to link your card.
· Exclusive Perks & Promos: Enjoy exclusive discounts including RM5 OFF* for AirAsia flights, international airlines (non-AirAsia flights), and duty free items.
· Early Access to Big Sales: Be among the first to enjoy the best deals and promotions during AirAsia MOVE’s big sale events.
· Safe & Secure Payments: Experience peace of mind with BigPay’s secure payment solutions.

Nadia Omer, CEO of AirAsia MOVE, said, “The launch of BigPay Lite is a strategic move to become the preferred payment option within the AirAsia MOVE ecosystem. We are making it easier than ever for our users to enjoy seamless, secure payments, alongside exclusive perks like special discount and priority access to AirAsia MOVE’s tailored promotions. This is a true collaborative effort between both the teams from AirAsia MOVE and BigPay with the main objective of giving more value and enhancing the travel experience of our users & travellers. This is not just a wallet, it’s a gateway to a more rewarding journey for millions of travellers.”

Zubin Rada Krishnan, CEO of BigPay, said, “At BigPay, we're committed to levelling up the lives of our customers, and BigPay Lite represents a significant step forward in this mission. With a simplified sign-up process that takes just seconds, our customers can now enjoy a safe and seamless payment experience within the AirAsia MOVE App. This is just the beginning — BigPay Lite is one of many innovations we're launching, including the creation of Travel Stash and Roundup to simplify saving for your travel, and soon, the ability to travel now and pay later. We're excited to continue innovating and enhancing the travel experience for all.”

BigPay Lite wallet is currently available only in Malaysia. For more information regarding the BigPay Lite, visit the FAQs page here.

Stay updated with everything from AirAsia MOVE by following @airasiamove on Instagram and Threads, @airasiamove on TikTok or @airasia on X for the latest updates. For a seamless and enhanced experience, download your AirAsia MOVE from the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or Huawei AppGallery.

*Terms and conditions apply

SOURCE: AirAsia MOVE

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
AirAsia MOVE
Name: Ryan Chan
Communications
Tel: 010-8145019
Email: loionchanl@airasia.com

--BERNAMA

APAC Reinsurers See Significant Gains In Favourable Investment Environment - AM Best

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 6 (Bernama) -- Major Asia-Pacific (APAC) reinsurance companies saw their composite’s return on equity surge to 9.2 per cent from 0.1 per cent under International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) 17, supported by a more stable investment environment and benign catastrophe activity.

This is according to Best's Market Segment Report, “Asia-Pacific Reinsurers Achieve Strong Results in Improved Investment Environment”, a part of AM Best’s look at the global reinsurance industry ahead of the Rendez-Vous de Septembre in Monte Carlo.

Other reinsurance-related reports, including AM Best’s ranking of top global reinsurance groups and in-depth looks at the insurance-linked securities, Lloyd’s, life/annuity, health and regional reinsurance markets, are available at Best’s Research.

AM Best senior director, head of analytics, Christie Lee said Asian reinsurers’ underwriting strategies for 2024 are diverse and depend on their ability to secure retrocession capacity, as well as their ability to manage the underwriting cycle.

“The large Asian reinsurers have adjusted their catastrophe capacity offerings in their home markets to shrink their catastrophe exposure accumulation, while others have deployed a mature market growth strategy to capture the benefits of material rate increases,” she said in a statement.

According to this report, Asian reinsurers, with business profiles characterised by a more traditional property line focus, as well as a relatively large book of proportional treaties, have benefitted less directly from global reinsurance rate hardening.

Nevertheless, the stability of operating performance of Asia’s reinsurers over the years has been notable, and they are working to improve profitability by expanding business overseas, with China still facing distinct challenges, though, as the country’s post-COVID recovery remains weak.

The report unveiled that the capital position of the major reinsurers in the APAC composite remains robust. Diversification will remain the business philosophy and strategy for Asia’s large reinsurers.

In addition to geographic expansion, diversifying their lines of business from traditional property treaties to building liability, life/health and specialty books of business will allow reinsurers to better manage the reinsurance cycle.

-- BERNAMA

JMGO SET TO ACE LASER PROJECTION WITH MALC™ 2.0 TRIPLE LASER OPTICS AT IFA 2024

Setting new standards for the projector industry with epic brightness, contrast, and color reproduction—achieved all at once

BERLIN, Sept 4 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --  JMGO, a pioneer in optical technology, will showcase its in-house developed MALC™ (Microstructure Adaptive Laser Control) 2.0 Triple Laser Optics at IFA 2024 in Berlin. This innovation is set to redefine laser projection by overcoming the industry’s persistent challenge of achieving high brightness, contrast, and color simultaneously.

Laser technology is renowned for delivering unmatched brightness and color over LED and lamp-based systems. However, the trade-off between brightness, contrast, and color has been a significant hurdle for both laser and hybrid laser/LED projectors. Typically, increasing brightness reduces contrast and oversaturates colors, while prioritizing color often results in lower brightness, compromising the overall viewing experience.

JMGO’s MALC™ 2.0 Triple Laser Optics breaks this barrier, enabling the N1S Series projectors to deliver up to 3,500 ANSI lumens of brightness while simultaneously maintaining an impressive 1,600:1 FOFO contrast ratio and covering 110% of BT.2020 with Δ<1 color accuracy. This means viewers can enjoy lifelike imagery with brilliant brightness, deep contrast, and precise color reproduction—without any compromise in picture quality.

Incorporating nine patented technologies, the MALC™ 2.0 laser engine also enhances brightness uniformity, reduces laser speckles, and improves optical efficiency—all while significantly lowering production costs. These innovations will be detailed during the press event on September 7 at 2:00 PM. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=49255

Integrated Power Services Completes Assets Acquisition Of ABB Industrial Services

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 4 (Bernama) -- Integrated Power Services (IPS), a North American leader in the servicing, engineering, and remanufacturing of electrical, mechanical, and power management systems, has finalised the acquisition of ABB’s Industrial Services business, effective Aug 31.

With locations in Arizona, Indiana, North Carolina, Alberta, and Ontario, ABB Industrial Services provides the highest-quality repair and field service capabilities for electric motors up to 50,000 horsepower (HP) and low- and medium-voltage switchgear equipment from 480 volt (V) to 15 kilovolt (kV).

According to IPS in a statement, these service centres also perform rotating equipment repair of pumps, compressors, blowers, bearings, gearboxes, and OHV mining drivetrains.

IPS President and Chief Executive Officer, John Zuleger said this acquisition will permit IPS to add locations where customers have urged the company to offer services.

“These five locations will enhance our capabilities in renewables, copper mining, and power management aftermarket industrial services.

“Additionally, IPS will now be the home of 115 additional talented employees, and the legacy technology and expertise from the General Electric and ABB heritage of these newly acquired sites,” he said.

The acquisition of ABB Industrial Services follows IPS’s acquisition of ABB’s hydrogenerator and transformer repair business in June 2022. The five ABB electric motor, generator, mechanical, switchgear, and circuit breaker industrial service centres were a part of a General Electric Industrial Solutions acquisition by ABB in June 2018.

In discussing the company's growth, Zuleger shared that IPS has grown to 88 locations, serving the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe, and the Caribbean, and aspires to become the single source, trusted advisor for its customers’ critical infrastructure challenges.

“We are committed to revolutionising reliability, as we advance our vision and ability to respond, rethink, and resolve our customer’s biggest reliability challenges,” he added.

-- BERNAMA

OLON ACQUIRES HUVEPHARMA ITALIA TO INCREASE API PRODUCTION CAPACITY

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 5 (Bernama) -- Olon, the chemical-pharmaceutical group in the production and development of active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and part of the holding company P&R, announced a new venture to acquire Huvepharma Italia Srl and its site in Garessio (Cuneo, Italy), continuing its growth path.

The acquisition plan involves a complete operational integration of Huvepharma Italia and to revive the production potential of the Garessio plant and, through the development of new business opportunities, bring it to full production capacity.

“We recognised in Huvepharma Italia all the right characteristics. The acquisition supports the implementation of the group's medium to long term strategy and the achievement of our business objectives,” said Olon Group Chief Executive Officer, Paolo Tubertini.

With this latest acquisition, the group now totals nine manufacturing plants in Italy alone and a total reaction capacity of 3,250 cubic metres, according to a statement.

In terms of presence, extent of manufacturing network and installed volume, it emerges as one of the most important industrial players on the national and European scene by size and production potential.

Since its inception, the Olon Group has pursued a strategy of growth, consolidation and expansion on the global market, both internally and externally through acquisitions.

In full continuity with this strategy, along with the specific objective of expanding its production potential and presence in the global market for active ingredients, Olon has acquired Huvepharma Italia.

The aim of the transaction is to strengthen and broaden the product offering with a focus on the most strategic areas, in addition to constituting a significant further step forward in terms of capacity growth.

-- BERNAMA

CALLING STORYTELLERS! SHOWCASE YOUR CREATIVITY AT "ASEAN NEW GENERATION" SHORT FILM AWARD

The competition is open to all ASEAN nationals (Graphic: Business Wire)

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 5 (Bernama) -- The ASEAN-Japan Centre (AJC) has launched the "ASEAN NEW GENERATION" Short Film Award, a competition seeking creative short films that showcase the vibrant life and aspirations of ASEAN people.

AJC in a statement said this exciting opportunity invites filmmakers and storytellers from across the 10 ASEAN Member States to share their unique perspectives with a Japanese audience, whereby 10 winners will have a portion of their film featured at the Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo.

The winner with the most popular film (decided by public voting) will also win a four days three nights trip for one (ticket and lodging) to Osaka to attend the Expo 2025 Osaka.

Themed "The World I Want to See", the competition encourages young creators to express their vision for the future, their values and the kind of world they want to live in through a short film (two to three minutes).

The AJC is hoping to bring to the Japanese population a more emotive narrative, showcasing an aspect of life in the ASEAN region that will inspire them to want to know more about its member countries and people.

The winning short films will be prominently displayed at the iconic Shibuya Scramble Crossing in Tokyo, where hundreds of thousands of people, including worldwide tourists, cross every day.

The competition is open to both professional and amateur filmmakers of ASEAN nationality, with the submission deadline due on Nov 30.

ASEAN and Japan have had a long history of friendship and cooperation, with last year marking the 50th anniversary of friendship and cooperation.

Moving forward, the AJC aims to continue to build on this relationship by deepening the mutual understanding between the people in the ASEAN Member States and Japan.

-- BERNAMA

TOSHIBA BEGINS SAMPLING OF AUTOMOTIVE CXPI RESPONDER INTERFACE IC

Toshiba: TB9033FTG, an automotive Clock Extension Peripheral Interface (CXPI) responder interface IC. (Graphic: Business Wire)

 
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 4 (Bernama) -- Toshiba Electronic Devices & Storage Corporation (Toshiba) has started to provide samples of “TB9033FTG”, an automotive Clock Extension Peripheral Interface (CXPI) responder interface IC that conforms to the CXPI standard for automotive communications protocols.

The TB9033FTG is the industry’s first IC of its type with built-in hardware logics, which control transmission and reception by the CXPI protocol and general purpose input/output (GPIO).

This eliminates the need for development of dedicated software and contributes to shorter product development times, according to Toshiba in a statement.

The new IC has 16 GPIO pins in which six can be switched to AD converter input, and four to pulse width modulation (PWM) output.

It also integrates functions that allow use in a broad spectrum of automotive applications such as input monitoring during Sleep Mode; switch matrix (max 4×4) input; and output in the event of communications disruption.

With fault detection circuits for overheat, overvoltage and low voltage built into the IC, it also can detect conditions that precede an abnormality and send the data to the commander node, hence improving fault detection performance in automotive applications.

In addition, the new product’s support for multiplexing automotive communications and reducing the number of wire harnesses used in body control systems will contribute to lower vehicle weight.

Toshiba is also developing an automotive CXPI communications driver receiver IC “TB9032FNG” that can be switched between commander node and responder node via an external pin.

-- BERNAMA

Black & Veatch To Delve Into Carbon Capture Opportunities At Vietnam's Power Plants

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 3 (Bernama) -- Black & Veatch, a global leader in critical infrastructure solutions, is evaluating the feasibility and readiness of deploying carbon capture, utilisation and storage (CCUS) technology in Vietnam’s coal-fired power plants to further reduce emissions.

The Vietnam Petroleum Institute (VPI) has commissioned Black & Veatch to study carbon-cutting technologies at three coal-fired power plants owned by Vietnam Oil and Gas Group (Petrovietnam or PVN).

Those plants are the Vung Ang 1 Thermal Power Plant in Ha Tinh Province, the Song Hau 1 Thermal Power Plant in Hau Giang Province, and the Thai Binh 2 Thermal Power Plant in Thai Binh Province. Each plant has a capacity of 2 x 600 megawatts (MW).

Black & Veatch president, Asia Pacific and India, Narsingh Chaudhary said deploying advanced technologies such as CCUS can help power producers and heavy industries reduce emissions in the region.

“Black & Veatch is committed to providing diverse and advanced solutions to help the Asia Pacific energy industry and existing asset owners meet growing energy demands with lower and no-carbon energy sources,” he said in a statement.

The study’s objective is to investigate the current carbon capture technology landscape and evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of applying that technology to the flue gas from the coal-fired power plants.

As part of the front-end loading (FEL) study, Black & Veatch will prepare a carbon capture technology assessment, evaluate and propose technology suitable for each power plant, and develop preliminary conceptual design for the carbon capture unit, as well as will outline strategies to connect the carbon capture unit to the existing power plant.

Vietnam’s National Energy Masterplan for 2021-2030, with a vision to 2050, encourages the adoption of CCUS solutions in industrial production facilities and power plants to achieve a capture capacity of about one million metric tonne (mt)/year by 2040 and three million to six million mt/year by 2050.

Black & Veatch has been a market leader in studying and implementing carbon capture technology for more than 30 years, having extensive experience in the analysis and detailed design of carbon dioxide (CO2) capture, as well as CO2 compression and handling systems.

-- BERNAMA

QIANHAI ATTAINS SIGNIFICANT STRIDES IN INSTITUTIONAL INNOVATION

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 3 (Bernama) -- Over the past three years, Qianhai, a hub for high-level opening-up, has been forging ahead with reform and innovation and delivering tangible results, noted by the Authority of Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone recently.

Through reform and opening-up, Qianhai aims to become a new engine for the construction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) and the Shenzhen Pilot Demonstration Zone. Institutional innovation is one of Qianhai's distinctive features.

To date, Qianhai has gradually established the "Qianhai Model" for institutional innovation in key areas such as investment facilitation, trade facilitation, financial openness and innovation, and legal innovation, according to a statement.

A string of innovative measures have been launched, such as the administrative confirmation system for business registration, one integrated licence, a suspension registration system for businesses, and the Qianhai e-Services Hong Kong-Macao Station.

Latest statistics show that Qianhai has launched 241 new institutional innovation achievements since 2021, bringing the total to 835, with 36 of these being promoted nationwide, making a cumulative total of 94, and according to Sun Yat-sen University’s institutional innovation index of China's free trade pilot zones, Qianhai has ranked first for three consecutive years.

Innovations in the financial field are viewed as one of the institutional innovations with the most typical Qianhai characteristics.

In recent years, a series of financial innovation policies have been implemented here, covering aspects such as finance for people's livelihood, the interconnectivity of the financial market, the development of modern finance industries, the facilitation of cross-border trade and investment, and enhanced cooperation in financial regulation.

Qianhai's institutional innovation achievements in key areas such as law, finance, and government affairs have demonstrated its advantages in institutional innovation.

This innovation not only helps Qianhai accelerate its comprehensive deepening of reforms but also provides new momentum for Qianhai to advance the comprehensive deepening of reforms in the Greater Bay Area and even China.

-- BERNAMA

WHAT'S YOUR GANGNAM STYLE? DIVE INTO K-CULTURE AT SEOUL'S GANGNAM FESTIVAL

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 3 (Bernama) -- Seoul's signature event in Gangnam, the 2024 Gangnam Festival, is set to kick off from Sept 26 to 29 at the COEX Square in Gangnam, hosted by Seoul’s Gangnam-gu.

A special stage at the COEX East Gate will host a different themed music festival daily, and various performances scheduled at Gangnam's tourism hub, free of charge, according to a statement.

The festival starts on Sept 27 with a grand opening featuring spectacular performances and a musical showcase, while on the evening of Sept 28, families can enjoy a lively retro music party and an open-air concert. This performance will be live-streamed on the Gangnam-gu Office YouTube channel.

On the same day, Apgujeong Rodeo will host an array of exciting events, including a unique pet fashion show, collections from renowned Korean and international designers, and a Hanbok fashion show showcasing the beauty of traditional Korean attire on a specially designed runway, adding to the festival's vibrant atmosphere.

The highlight of the Gangnam Festival is the Yeongdong-daero K-Pop Concert, a massive mega-concert expected to accommodate 11,000 people, which will take place on the outdoor stage at COEX Square.

The concert will feature eight top K-POP artists representing various genres, including rock, ballad, and K-Pop, such as Guckkasten, Rocky, Solar, Apink, Oh My Girl, Oneus, Lee Mu-Jin and ITZY.

Tickets can be purchased in advance through Ticketlink Global available from Sept 10 and global online travel agency (OTA) platforms (Klook, Interpark Triple) offering Yeongdong-daero K-Pop-related travel packages. The concert will also be live-streamed on the Gangnam-gu Office YouTube channel and 1theK YouTube channel.

In addition, the K-Pop Square around COEX will offer a variety of attractions, such as global food trucks, and a K-culture experience zone, providing plenty of entertainment for festival-goers, during the festival.

-- BERNAMA

HENDRIK SCHOLL JOINS BELITE BIO AS CHIEF MEDICAL OFFICER

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 2 (Bernama) -- Belite Bio Inc (Belite Bio), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical drug development company, announced its board of directors has appointed Hendrik Scholl, as the company’s Chief Medical Officer, effective immediately.

Dr Scholl is the foremost globally recognised authority on Stargardt disease and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), bringing decades of expertise in treating retinal diseases, including the two key indications targeted by Belite Bio's lead drug candidate, Tinlarebant.

“Dr Scholl has served as Chair of the Data and Safety Monitoring Board for both our Phase 2 and Phase 3 Stargardt disease trials, and his decision to join Belite further validates our belief in Tinlarebant’s immense potential to improve the lives of patients living with debilitating macular diseases.

“His leadership, expertise, and commitment to addressing this area of high unmet need has and will continue to be invaluable as we advance our clinical programmes,” said Belite Bio Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Tom Lin in a statement.

Meanwhile, Dr Scholl said: “I have dedicated my career to improving the lives of people suffering from serious retinal and macular diseases, and I am deeply impressed by Belite Bio’s pioneering approach to developing transformative therapies for Stargardt disease and dry AMD, which have historically lacked effective treatment options.”

Dr Scholl served as the founding and scientific co-director of the Institute of Molecular and Clinical Ophthalmology Basel (IOB) and Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Basel, where he also led the Department of Ophthalmology as its Chairman. He is also the Founder and President of the Swiss Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO-SWISS).

Graduated from the University of Tübingen, Germany with a Doctor of Medicine and Master of Arts, Dr Scholl currently serves as President of the European Vision Institute as well as Chairman of the largest clinical research network in ophthalmology in Europe, EVICR.net, and its Expert Committee on Retinal Dystrophies.

-- BERNAMA

Toshiba’s Automotive Photorelay Suitable For High Voltage Applications

_{Toshiba: TLX9152M, an automotive photorelay for 400V automotive battery systems. (Graphic: Business Wire)}

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 29 (Bernama) -- Toshiba Electronic Devices & Storage Corporation (Toshiba) has launched “TLX9152M”, an automotive photorelay with an output withstand voltage of 900 volt (V) (min) that is highly suitable for application in high voltage automotive batteries.

The new photorelay is housed in an SO16L-T package, widely used for high-voltage photorelays including Toshiba’s TLX9160T, which has an output withstand voltage of 1500V.

According to Toshiba in a statement, improved charge times and a longer cruising range are essential for wider adoption of electric vehicles, and both require more efficient operation of battery systems.

Battery management systems (BMS) realise efficient system operation by monitoring the battery charge status, plus the insulation between the battery and the vehicle body that is essential for the safe use of high-voltage batteries.

In BMS that must handle high voltages, electrically insulated photorelays are used.

As photorelays commonly used in battery systems must have a withstand voltage of approximately twice the system voltage, hence Toshiba’s new product is suitable for 400V systems as it has an output withstand voltage/ supply voltage of 900V.

Toshiba is a supplier of advanced semiconductor and storage solutions, draws on over half a century of experience and innovation to offer customers and business partners outstanding discrete semiconductors, system large-scale integrations (LSIs) and hard disk drive (HDD) products.

-- BERNAMA