MALAYSIA STRENGTHENS SUSTAINABILITY FOOTHOLD AT COP29 AS COUNTRY ASSUMES ASEAN CHAIR IN 2025

 

From left: YBRS. IR. TS. SHAMSUL BAHAR MOHD NOR Group Chief Executive Officer Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC), HIS EXCELLENCY AMBASSADOR AHMAD KAMRIZAMIL MOHD RIZA Ambassador of Malaysia to Azerbaijan. YBHG. DATUK DR. CHING THOO A/L KIM Secretary-General Ministry of Natural Resources And Environmental Sustainability (NRES). DR. HARTINI BINTI MOHD NASIR Undersecretary Climate Change Division Ministry of Natural Resources And Environmental Sustainability. YBHG. TAN SRI ABDUL RAZAK BIN ABDUL MAJID Chairman Tenaga Nasional Berhad

The Malaysia Pavilion at COP29 showcases the nation's commitment to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 and its vision for ASEAN Chairmanship 2025. By embracing sustainable development, green technologies, and resilient urban design, Malaysia is leading the way in transforming the way Malaysia addresses climate challenges.

BAKU, Nov 12 (Bernama) -- The Malaysia Pavilion at COP29 marks the country’s steadfast commitment to sustainability as it prepares to assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025. Aligned with the pavilion’s theme, ‘Shift for Sustainability – Climate Action Now!’, the country is set to showcase its key climate action milestones, advocate for stronger intergovernmental cooperation on green initiatives, and promote the country’s advanced sustainable practices on the global stage.

This effort is fully aligned with Malaysia’s broader climate objectives and supports the theme of the 2025 ASEAN Chairmanship, "Inclusivity and Sustainability”. Malaysia will also call for enhanced cooperation among ASEAN member states and urge more decisive action on key areas such as sustainable development, environmental protection, and social equity, in line with the ASEAN Community Vision 2025, to drive the region’s progress toward achieving its net-zero goals.

Secretary General, Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES), Datuk Dr Ching Thoo a/l Kim said, "The global climate crisis demands a unified approach, and today, at COP29, we remain fully-committed to our comprehensive strategy emphasising on climate-conscious policies and sustainable economic growth that benefit the people and economies of all ASEAN nations. We aim to foster deeper collaborations to tackle these shared environmental challenges and hope to enhance regional resilience by implementing effective climate solutions.”

Strategically located in the Blue Zone at COP29, the pavilion serves as a dynamic platform for Malaysia to advocate for collective action and shared responsibilities in climate finance resilience, advancements in renewable energy, progress on carbon markets, and cross-border collaboration in biodiversity protection, empowering youth and a robust circular economy agenda.

Set to ignite transformative conversations during the two weeks Conference of Parties, a robust lineup of prominent local and international speakers will feature keynotes and panel discussions including cross-border negotiations aimed to address pressing environmental challenges, promote resilient initiatives and to secure a more sustainable future for Malaysia and around Southeast Asia.

Over the next two days, the distinguished lineup of speakers will include high-level panels with representatives from cross sectors including Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA), Ministry of Economy, Tenaga Nasional Berhad, and Suruhanjaya Tenaga (Energy Commission), Malayan Banking Berhad, ICLEI South Asia, CIMB Islamic Bank, Malaysia Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation, Yinson, and many more, to discuss pathways for building climate-resilient cities in Malaysia through collaboration with regional and global partners.

Furthermore, a regional panel moderated by GIZ ASEAN EU-German Climate Action Programme will feature insights from ASEAN Showcasing ASEAN’s Climate Ambition Through the Development of New Cycle of NDC that include Malaysia’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability, Brunei’s Climate Change Secretariat, Indonesia’s Ministry of Environment and Forestry and Singapore’s National Climate Change Secretariat demonstrating cross-border commitment to climate action.

The agenda will conclude with presentations and fireside chats on transboundary climate risks in Southeast Asia, bringing together experts from the Global Resilience Partnership, Stockholm Environment Institute, and Boston Consulting Group (BCG), to chart a collaborative path forward on managing climate risks that impact the region.

The Malaysia Pavilion at COP29 is spearheaded by the Ministry of Natural Resources, Environment and Climate Change, in collaboration with the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC) as the executing agency. The Pavillion and our country’s participation is proudly supported by Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), Petroliam Nasional Berhad (PETRONAS), Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC), Malaysian Palm Oil Green Conservation Foundation (MPOGCF), Felda Global Ventures Holding Berhad (FGV), SD Guthrie Bhd, Malayan Banking Berhad (Maybank), Bank Pembangunan Malaysia Berhad (BPMB), Kloth Wear and De Carton.

For more information regarding the Malaysian Pavilion at COP29, visit https://malaysiapavilion-cop.com/

About the Malaysian Pavilion

Malaysia is proud to present our Malaysia Pavilion at COP29, built around the theme “Shift for Sustainability: Climate Action Now”. This theme emphasises the urgency of addressing climate change with immediate, bold actions. Through a whole-of-nation approach, Malaysia is committed to collaborating with all sectors—government, businesses, and communities—to create a sustainable and resilient future for all.

Join us at the Malaysia Pavilion as we showcase our nation’s innovative solutions for climate action, from green urban development to energy transitions, biodiversity preservation, and more.

SOURCE: MINISTRY OF NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY (NRES)

11 NOVEMBER 2024

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Corporate Communication Unit
Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES)
Tel. : 03-8000 8000

Daniel Michael
Senior PR Manager
MSL Group Malaysia
Tel: +60 14-933 9060
Email: daniel.michael@mslgroup.com

Wan Aiqha Liyana
PR Executive
MSL Group Malaysia
Tel: +60 10 287 3103
Email: wan.aiqha@mslgroup.com

--BERNAMA

TRAVELOKA'S HARGABAGUS GUARANTEES MALAYSIANS THE BEST PRICE ON FLIGHTS

HargaBAGUS Guarantees Malaysians the Best Price on Flights 

 
Traveloka offers double the price difference in Traveloka points if Malaysian users find a cheaper option elsewhere

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 12 (Bernama) -- Traveloka, Southeast Asia’s leading travel platform, is raising the bar on affordable travel with the launch of HargaBAGUS (Best Airlines-Price Guaranteed Sangat) in Malaysia. This new feature guarantees Malaysian travellers the lowest available prices on flights booked through the Traveloka app and website, offering an unmatched level of price assurance.

With HargaBAGUS, Traveloka promises to match any lower price found for the same flight, refunding users with double the price difference in Traveloka Points, credited directly to their account.

How to Secure the Best Deals with HargaBAGUS
Booking flights at the best price has never been easier. Simply visit the Traveloka ‘Flights’ homepage and look for routes or airlines marked with the red HargaBAGUS promo label, which indicates flights covered by this best-price guarantee.

If a user finds a lower price for the same flight elsewhere, they only need to submit a claim within 12 hours of receiving their Traveloka e-ticket. Claims are reviewed within 24 hours, and if approved, the price difference is credited as Traveloka Points within seven days after the e-ticket’s departure date.

Sincerelyshe, a Content Creator and Travel Enthusiast, shared her experience: “For most travelers, including myself, pricing is the top priority when deciding to fly. I used to spend hours hunting for the best deals, but with Traveloka’s HargaBAGUS guarantee, that’s a thing of the past. Now I can focus on enjoying the journey and creating experiences, which is what travel should be all about. Seriously, it’s sangat bagus!”

Additional Tips for Finding Great Flight Deals on Traveloka
Even if your desired flight isn’t marked with the HargaBAGUS label, Traveloka offers several tools to help you secure the best prices:

· Flexible Dates Search: Compare prices across different dates to identify the cheapest days to fly.
· Flight Route Page: Check Traveloka’s Flight Route page for price trends, highlighting the best times to book for lower fares, especially during off-peak months.
· Price Alerts: Set up alerts to receive notifications when prices drop for flights you’re watching.
· Nearby Airports: Broaden your search to include smaller, nearby airports for potential cost savings.

For full terms and conditions of HargaBAGUS, visit Traveloka HargaBAGUS

To learn more about Traveloka, download the Traveloka App, visit our official Traveloka website or follow us on Instagram, Facebook, and X.

About Traveloka
Traveloka is Southeast Asia’s leading travel platform that enables consumers to access, discover, and purchase a wide range of travel products. Its product selection encompasses transport bookings for flights, buses, trains, and car rentals, along with airport transfers. The company provides a wide array of accommodation options, including hotels, apartments, guest houses, homestays, resorts, and villas. Additionally, Traveloka offers cruises, travel packages, along with a variety of local attractions to enhance travelers’ experience, such as theme parks, museums, day tours, and more.

Established in Indonesia in 2012, the company also operates in Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, and the Philippines. Traveloka offers 24/7 customer support in local languages and accepts over 30 different local payment methods. The Traveloka app has been downloaded more than 130 million times and boasts over 40 million monthly active user, making it one of the most popular travel app in the region

SOURCE: Traveloka

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Traveloka Communications Team
Email: pr@traveloka.com

--BERNAMA

MONSHA’AT TAKES SIGNIFICANT STEP TRANSFORMING SAUDI ENTREPRENEURSHIP LANDSCAPE

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 11 (Bernama) -- The Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Monsha’at, has taken another important step towards reshaping the Saudi entrepreneurship landscape.

This is following the announcement of 16 agreements totalling more than 10.6 billion Saudi riyals on the fourth day of Biban24, according to a statement. (100 Saudi riyals = RM117.40)

Extending its ongoing efforts to empower Saudi entrepreneurs and bolster the Kingdom’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SME) infrastructure, Monsha’at also announced a wide selection of agreements to allocate substantial financial portfolios to financing Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing community of entrepreneurs.

This includes a portfolio worth 3.1 billion Saudi riyals in collaboration with Tayseer Finance; a portfolio valued at two billion Saudi riyals with Lendo Company; and a one billion Saudi riyals portfolio with Tarmeez Capital.

These agreements are fully geared towards providing SMEs with stepping stones to success and facilitating more seamless and ready access to vital tools and resources.

The National Commercial Bank (NCB) has also announced the launch of 15 new branches specialised in supporting SMEs, while Arab Bank launched “anb digital”, a platform created to enable SMEs to submit financing applications, receive preliminary approvals, and sign contracts electronically.

On the fourth day of Biban24, a range of seminars and workshops were being hosted, covering a diversity of subjects and areas of interest, to empower participants, attendees, and entrepreneurs from the region and beyond with access to all-important insights, resources, and connections.

Held under the theme of Global Destination for Opportunities, the gathering is focused on driving the growth and development of the Saudi entrepreneurial ecosystem for local and international entrepreneurs.

-- BERNAMA

SME BANK GIVES BACK TO TAMPOI, JOHOR BAHRU THROUGH THE SANTUNI MADANI PROGRAMME

JOHOR BAHRU, Nov 11 (Bernama) -- Small Medium Enterprise Development Bank Malaysia Berhad (“SME Bank”) supports the Government’s ‘Satu Pemimpin Satu Kampung’ (“SANTUNI MADANI”) programme through a partnership with Kampung Pasir, Tampoi in Johor Bahru, which is expected to benefit over 2,000 residents of the village. This initiative reaffirms SME Bank’s commitment in uplifting the well-being and livelihoods of the local community.

Datuk Dr. Mohammad Hardee Ibrahim, Acting Group President/Chief Executive Officer of SME Bank said, “In line with our mandate to provide beyond financing support to the unserved and underserved target groups, we are pleased to heed the Government’s call by supporting the national SANTUNI MADANI programme. Kicking off this initiative today, we are happy to support 100 students of Kampung Pasir across 14 learning institutions comprising elementary, primary and secondary schools under the Back-to-School 2025 program with a cash contribution totalling RM20,000. Also, our team members from SME Bank’s Southern Regional Centres in Johor Bahru and Batu Pahat participated in a “gotong-royong” to clean up the key areas within Kampung Pasir to improve the surrounding environment as part of SME Bank’s aspirations to clock 4,648 employee volunteering hours this year across close to our 1,200 employees.”

Datuk Hardee added, “The onboarding of Kampung Pasir as one of the Bank’s beneficiaries underscores their commitment towards addressing the socioeconomic and social gaps in our society day, particularly within the communities in need such as Kampung Pasir, aligning with the Government’s aspirations to advance more economic empowerment and community development initiatives. This also reaffirms our sustainability aspirations which is to implement and execute initiatives that contribute positively to the betterment of society in the long-term period.”

The SANTUNI MADANI programme is a national initiative spearheaded by the Prime Minister of Malaysia, Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim and coordinated by the Implementation Coordination Unit (“ICU”) of the Prime Minister's Department. The SANTUNI MADANI programme involves relevant agencies under the Government to select a village within the country that requires direct support and assistance. This initiative is aimed at enhancing the livelihoods of the rural and underdeveloped target groups, which includes villages and communities in need, in tandem with empowering these segments in accordance with the principles of localised Sustainable Development Goals.

The officiating ceremony was graced by the presence of Dato' Zahari Sarip, Committee Chairman, State Agriculture, Agro-based Industry & Rural Development of Johor and Member of the Johor State Executive Council (“EXCO”). Also in attendance were Datuk Dr. Mohammad Hardee Ibrahim; Zaini Sinong, Head of Village, Kampung Pasir along with SME Bank’s senior management team.

From 2022 to November 2024, SME Bank has mobilised approximately close to RM3 million across 17 CSR endeavours, focussing on economic empowerment, community development as well as environmental conservation and preservation.

https://bit.ly/3YANXfW

Issued by:
SME Bank Group Strategic Communication

SOURCE: Small Medium Enterprise Development Bank Malaysia Berhad

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Arnee Ismail
Head, Group Strategic Communication
SME Bank
Tel: 03-2615 2954
Email: arnee.ismail@smebank.com.my

--BERNAMA

CCI FRANCE MALAYSIA GALA NIGHT 2024, CELEBRATING FRANCO-MALAYSIAN BILATERAL TRADE WITH FRANCE AS MALAYSIA'S 3RD LARGEST EU PARTNER

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 5 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian French Chamber of Commerce & Industry / CCI France Malaysia (CCIFM) hosted its Gala Night on 4th November 2024 at Hilton Kuala Lumpur, honouring the Franco-Malaysian business community’s contributions to the thriving bilateral trade between the two nations. France solidified its position as Malaysia’s third-largest trading partner within the European Union (EU), with bilateral trade reaching €5.28 billion or MYR26 billion in 2023. In this vibrant context, Malaysia is set to officially assume the Chair of ASEAN on 1 January 2025, and CCIFM wishes its success in this leadership role.

The French economic footprint in Malaysia continues to expand, with 600 French entities established, including around 300 subsidiaries and 300 entrepreneurs. Collectively, they contribute to the local economy by employing approximately 30,000 people.

Over 400 guests were welcomed by Datuk Zainal Amanshah and Mr Richard Fostier, Honorary Chairman and President of CCIFM, respectively, alongside H.E. Axel Cruau, Ambassador of France to Malaysia. The night was further graced by the presence of Guest of Honour, YB Liew Chin Tong, Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) Malaysia.

The key partners of the night were Stellantis, Airbus, Air Liquide, Arkema, BNP Paribas, Club Med, Engie, Generali, L’Oréal, Michelin, Nazsoft Tech, Safran, STMicroelectronics, TotalEnergies, Veolia, Société Générale, Ayvens, Cegos, Cetim, CMA CGM, and JLL.

With a rich history of vibrant trade relations, France and Malaysia continue to demonstrate the strength and resilience of their economic partnership. The Gala Night offered a platform to reflect on their longstanding ties, celebrate current successes, and envision the future of bilateral trade relations. The Chamber is confident that Malaysia remains a strategic and competitive destination for French businesses, acting as a key regional hub for their growth and expansion throughout the Asia-Pacific region.

This success story is largely attributed to the well-established relationships between French and Malaysian institutions, exemplified by the effective collaboration of The French Embassy and its Economic Department, Business France, French Trade Advisors, La French Tech, MIDA, MATRADE, InvestKL and other state investment promotion agencies, Talent Corp, and MDEC with CCI France Malaysia.

Selected member companies were honoured with the prestigious CCIFM Excellence Award, which recognizes individuals, companies, and organizations that have demonstrated outstanding excellence and innovation in their respective fields. These contributions have significantly advanced the growth and success of Franco-Malaysian business relations, fostering greater collaboration and prosperity.

The following companies were awarded during the CCIFM Malaysia-France Gala Night 2024:

• The award for “Outstanding Achievements-Large Company” was granted to Decathlon
• The award for “Outstanding Achievements-SME” was granted to Nazsoft Tech
• The award for “Entrepreneur of the Year” was granted to Ineotech
• The award for “Corporate Social Responsibility” was granted to Club Med
• The award for “France-Malaysia Smart Partnership” was granted to Engie Services Malaysia x UAC Berhad
• The award for “Image of France” was granted to Les Bouchons

An electric atmosphere set the stage for unforgettable performances by celebrated artists, including the “King of Malaysian Comedy” Douglas Lim, “Malaysia’s Queen of Jazz” Shiela Majid, talented soprano Charity Goh, Zeppo Youngsterz, and others.

Guests indulged in specialty cocktails and beverages sponsored by Monin and the Pernod Ricard group, signature desserts crafted by one-Michelin-starred chef Darren Chin, and left with fantastic lucky draw prizes from Air France and Club Med.

To mark this special occasion, CCI France Malaysia proudly initiated the planting of 400 trees—one for each guest—at the Gala Night as part of their CSR initiative. These trees, planted by APE Malaysia, their on-ground partner, in the beautiful Lower Kinabatangan Wildlife Sanctuary will be cared for over the next four years. This initiative reflects CCIFM's commitment to preserving Malaysia’s biodiversity and strengthening its ecosystem for future generations.

See more photos: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjBPWof

The goal of CCIFM is to foster a dynamic business ecosystem between its members and the Malaysian business landscape, facilitating meaningful connections and actively supporting the growth of trade and investment opportunities. Strategically located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur’s business and transportation hub, CCIFM offers 2 business centers with fully equipped private offices and coworking spaces. Designed for French entrepreneurs, SMEs, and multinational companies expanding into Malaysia and the Asia-Pacific region, CCIFM provides business center services, company set-up and registration, immigration and visa assistance, accounting, payroll and commercial services such as organizing prospective missions, partner searches, and various market research initiatives.

VIP Guests:
YB Liew Chin Tong — Deputy Minister, Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI)
H.E. Axel Cruau — Ambassador of France to Malaysia
Datuk Zainal Amanshah — Honorary Chairman, CCIFM
Richard Fostier — President, CCIFM
Sivasuriyamoorthy Sundara Raja — Deputy Chief Executive, MIDA
Daniel Gonzalez — Senior VP & COO ASEAN, Stellantis

#ccifm #ccifrancemalaysia #ccifmgalanight

SOURCE: CCI France Malaysia

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Alban Simonte
Tel: 03-2714 6151
Email: alban@mfcci.com

--BERNAMA

EMPOWERING THE HALAL WORKFORCE: KEY OUTCOMES FROM THE HALAL TALENT SYMPOSIUM 2024

PETALING JAYA, Nov 5 (Bernama) -- The Halal Development Corporation Berhad (HDC) successfully organized the Halal Talent Symposium 2024, themed “Empowering the Halal Workforce of the Future”. Officiated by YBhg. Datuk Bahria binti Mohd Tamil, Deputy Secretary General, Investment and Management, Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) the event brought together around 200 industry leaders, government officials, and educational institutions to discuss the vital role of talent development in elevating Malaysia’s Halal ecosystem

In the Keynote Address by YBhg. Datuk Bahria emphasized that Malaysia’s potential to lead the global Halal market, in producing skilled local talent as an essential aspect to maintaining excellence in Halal standards.

"Our commitment to maintaining excellence in Halal standards and practices is shown in our strategic initiatives such as the Halal Industry Master Plan 2030," she said. She also highlighted the importance of nurturing a skilled workforce capable of adapting to the evolving demands of the Halal industry.

Datuk Bahria said the Halal industry is a comprehensive ecosystem encompassing food, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and services. "At the core of our thriving Halal economy the most valuable asset is our people," she said, calling for a collaborative approach to talent development that connects small and medium enterprises with educational institutions and the public sector.

Khairul Azwan Harun, Chairman of HDC, remarked, “Today’s discussions are critical as we aim to strengthen our Halal workforce. By aligning our educational programs with industry needs, we can ensure a steady stream of skilled professionals ready to meet the global challenges ahead.”

The symposium also introduced the Halal Community Practice Framework, designed to enhance training and certification within the Halal industry. This framework aims to foster collaboration between educational institutions and industry players, ensuring that Malaysia remains at the forefront of Halal innovation and practices.

With insights gained from thorough stakeholder engagement, the framework identifies eight (8) key interventions to address training gaps and enhance the visibility of careers in Halal. "Together, we can turn challenges into opportunities, ensuring that Malaysia not only remains a leader in the global Halal market but continues to define its future," added Azwan.

HDC looks forward to continuing its mission of empowering the Halal workforce and solidifying Malaysia's reputation as a leader in the global Halal economy.

ABOUT HALAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION BERHAD (HDC) spearheads the development of Malaysia’s integrated and comprehensive halal ecosystem and infrastructure to position Malaysia as the most competitive country leading the global halal industry. Established on 18 September 2006, HDC is the central coordinator that promotes participation and facilitates growth of industry players in the development of Malaysia’s Halal ecosystem. An agency under the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry; it is the world’s first Government-backed halal industry development corporation. For more information, please visit HDC at - www.hdcglobal.com.

SOURCE: Halal Development Corporation Berhad (HDC)

FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Name: Norsida Ahmad
Tel: +6012 3249703
Email: norsida.ahmad@hdcglobal.com

--BERNAMA

MELTWATER, CYABRA JOIN FORCES TO TACKLE DIS- AND MISINFORMATION THREATS TO BRANDS

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 4 (Bernama) -- Meltwater, a media, social, and consumer intelligence global provider, announced a new strategic partnership with Cyabra, whose AI shields companies and government agencies from dis- and misinformation by uncovering fake profiles, harmful narratives, and generative artificial intelligence (Gen AI) content.

Together, Cyabra and Meltwater will enable customers with a powerful solution to protect brand reputation from online disinformation attacks, manage crises effectively, and enhance the quality of insights on genuine consumer sentiment.

This holistic framework complements Meltwater’s existing social intelligence solutions and allows for a deeper understanding of dis- and misinformation amplified by malicious actors through fake accounts, according to a statement.

“Cyabra’s leading technology gives teams advanced tools to be able to detect, manage, and counter harmful narratives in real time and protect brand reputation, and we are proud they have chosen to partner with Meltwater to advance this mission,” said Meltwater senior vice president (SVP) of Global Alliances and Partnerships, Doug Balut.

Meanwhile, Cyabra SVP of Revenue, Emmanuel Heymann said: “By joining forces with Meltwater, we are extending our capabilities to offer a comprehensive solution to a wider audience.

“Meltwater’s suite of tools, combined with Cyabra’s advanced technology, empowers businesses to better identify and counter online threats. Together, we provide a powerful solution for safeguarding brand reputation and building consumer trust in the digital age.”

Through this partnership, joint customers of Meltwater and Cyabra will receive real-time alerts about emerging threats in order to improve decision-making and strategic planning.

With this partnership, Cyabra has joined the Meltwater Partner Program, a fast-growing ecosystem of top technology and services providers. By joining the programme, Meltwater partners gain access to a broad range of programmes, including access to innovative technologies and exclusive co-marketing opportunities to amplify their brand and accelerate revenue growth.

-- BERNAMA

TEAMLAB PLANETS TOKYO PURSUING SIGNIFICANT EXPANSION, TO UNVEIL NEW ARTWORKS JANUARY 2025

^{teamLab, Rapidly Rotating Bouncing Spheres in the Caterpillar House, Courtesy teamLab Borderless, Jeddah (c) teamLab}

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 4 (Bernama) -- Internationally acclaimed and popular art museum, "teamLab Planets TOKYO DMM" (teamLab Planets) in Toyosu, Tokyo is set to unveil a large-scale expansion on Jan 22, next year.

According to a statement, the expansion increases teamLab Planets' area by 1.5 times, introducing an extensive space themed around educational projects.

The new additions include Athletic Forest, a complex, multi-dimensional creative athletic space; Catching and Collecting Extinct Forest where visitors can capture and study extinct animals; and Future Park, a collaborative space for co-creation, featuring over 10 new artworks across these spaces.

Unlike the existing Water Area and Garden, where visitors experience the artworks barefoot, visitors in Athletics Forest, Catching and Collecting Extinct Forest, and Future Park will explore the complex, three-dimensional spaces wearing comfortable shoes.

Additionally, a new Sketch Factory will be established, allowing visitors to take home original products (such as tin badges, hand towels, T-shirts, tote bags, and paper crafts) featuring the drawings they create within the artwork spaces. Furthermore, the outdoor areas will also undergo a major renewal.

Tickets for visits until February 2025 are now available for purchase on the official website.

A museum where visitors walk through water, and a garden where they become one with the flowers, teamLab Planets comprises four large-scale artwork spaces and two gardens created by art collective teamLab.

-- BERNAMA

Gradiant’s ForeverGone Bags TIME’s Best Inventions Of 2024

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 1 (Bernama) -- Gradiant, a global leader in advanced water and wastewater treatment, announced its ForeverGone technology has been named one of TIME’s Best Inventions of 2024.

According to Gradiant in a statement, it has been recognised as the industry’s only all-in-one solution to permanently eliminate per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), also known as “forever chemicals” in municipal and industrial water, without the risk of leaking toxic chemicals into the environment.

Gradiant Chief Operating Officer, Prakash Govindan said ForeverGone is different from anything in the marketplace as it completely solves the challenge of PFAS contamination.

“ForeverGone is precisely the disruptive innovation the industry has been calling for. We appreciate TIME’s recognition of our invention and its ability to equip municipalities and industrial users worldwide to eliminate PFAS from nature, forever,” he said.

PFAS contamination in water supplies and ecosystems has been linked to cancers, immune disorders, and developmental issues, posing a global public health concern.

Gradiant’s ForeverGone technology, independently validated by multiple accredited laboratories, pairs Micro-Foam Fractionation and Destruction Engine to concentrate PFAS into a micro-foam and then destroy it using electro-oxidation, delivering water that meets or exceeds the latest United States Environmental Protection Agency drinking water standards.

This integrated approach sets new standards for simplicity, efficiency, and sustainability, delivering comprehensive PFAS removal at the lowest total cost.

Gradiant is rapidly expanding the use of ForeverGone across industries such as semiconductors, food & beverage, mining, and major municipalities, ensuring PFAS remediation becomes more accessible to communities worldwide.

Each year, TIME recognises 200 groundbreaking innovations that are changing lives worldwide, and award winners are sourced from nominations by TIME’s editors and correspondents worldwide, as well as an application process, and are chosen for their originality, efficacy, ambition, and impact.

-- BERNAMA

Pluxee Raises 2025 & 2026 Outlooks, Exceeds Financial Targets

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 1 (Bernama) -- French-based company, Pluxee has posted net profit of 133 million euros for the full year, up 64.2 per cent from 81 million euros in the same period of the prior year driven by outstanding performance in fiscal 2024 exceeding all business and financial objectives. (1 euro = RM4.76)

The company’s revenue rose 15 per cent to 1.210 billion euros, representing over 18.6 per cent organic growth, well above the low double-digit target.

“As we transition to fiscal 2025, I am confident that Pluxee is well-positioned to deliver on its objectives going forward, continuing to generate sustainable low double-digit organic growth combined with steady margin expansion and strong cash flow generation.

“This is underpinned by the disciplined execution of our strategic roadmap, driven by product innovation, a powerful commercial engine, best-in-class tech capabilities and a targeted mergers and acquisitions strategy, creating value for all our shareholders, clients, consumers and merchant partners,” said its Chief Executive Officer, Aurélien Sonet in a statement.

Recurring earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation (EBITDA) came in at 430 million euros, growing 24.8 per cent organically, compared with 363 million euros, with recurring EBITDA margin at 35.6 per cent, an organic increase of 183 basis points (bps) compared to the initial objective of stable margin.

Furthermore, Pluxee has enhanced its distribution policy with 0.35 euro proposed dividend per share, corresponding to 25 per cent payout based on adjusted net profit of 203 million euros.

The company has revised upward its fiscal 2025 and 2026 outlooks, reflecting its confidence in structural market growth trends, its proven business model and its ability to successfully deploy strategic plan.

Additionally, Pluxee has confirmed its target for low double-digit organic revenue growth each year given a higher fiscal 2024 base.

It is targeting a 75 bps increase in recurring EBITDA margin expansion in each of fiscal 2025 and 2026, and expecting to reach its three-year target of a 250 bps organic increase one year ahead of plan.

The company also expects recurring cash conversion above 75 per cent on average over fiscal 2024–2026, compared to above 70 per cent previously announced.

-- BERNAMA

UNIPART WINS E-COMMERCE CONTRACT WITH SOUTH KOREAN PET SUPPLIES RETAILER VANCHANGGO

OXFORD, United Kingdom, Oct 29 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Unipart, the supply chain solutions and performance improvement technologies partner, has won a three-year contract with Vanchanggo, a rapidly-expanding B2B and B2C pet supplies retailer based in South Korea.

Unipart will provide comprehensive e-commerce services to Vanchanggo from its 12,000m² facility in the Gyeonggi-do Province, optimising its supply chain to ensure a seamless and efficient logistics operation. The facility opened earlier this month.

Unipart has been operating in South Korea since 2010, working with customers in the automotive and e-commerce sectors to provide logistics and supply chain solutions.

Carl Williams, Unipart Managing Director, Asia Pacific, said: “We are delighted to have won this contract with Vanchanggo, and look forward to driving efficiency and growth within Vanchanggo’s operations.

“This three-year contract represents a significant achievement for Unipart, underscoring our growing influence and capability in the region.

“By entering South Korea’s dynamic e-commerce market, Unipart is further solidifying itself as a versatile and strategic player in global logistics and e-commerce.”

Bongjun Kim, Vanchanggo CEO, said: “We are pleased to be partnering with Unipart Korea, a specialist in logistics, to ensure our products are delivered to customers quickly and safely.

“With Unipart Korea’s exceptional logistics management capabilities, we expect to significantly enhance the efficiency of Vanchanggo’s product deliveries and further improve customer satisfaction.

“Through this agreement, we aim to promote mutual growth and maintain a close working relationship to ensure successful logistics operations.”

For more information contact Alistair.drummond@unipart.com.
 

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/45a3cb36-e9e3-47fe-bd40-815d44eb0b6e 

SOURCE: Unipart Group LTD

--BERNAMA