Smartee Empowers the Next Generation of Orthodontists at the 2nd HADO Exhibition
Smartee Empowers the Next Generation of Orthodontists at the 2nd HADO Exhibition

BUDAPEST, Hungary, May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On May 20, 2024, Smartee Denti-Technology, a global leader in clear aligners and digital orthodontic solutions, presented its innovative Smartee GS Mandibular Repositioning Technology at the 2nd HADO Exhibition, held from May 16-19, 2024 in Budapest. The HADO exhibition serves as a platform for sharing advanced orthodontic practices and perspectives The Hungarian Association for Dentofacial Orthopedics and Orthodontics (HADO) Exhibition serves as a platform for sharing advanced orthodontic practices and perspectives among orthodontists from all over the world. With over 300 attendees and partners, 32+ hours of intensive learning, and 4 days of professional experience sharing, the event fostered a culture of continuous learning in the orthodontic community. Smartee booth attracted a steady stream of visitors eager to explore Smartee’s unique innovations and solutions During the exhibition, the Smartee booth attracted a steady stream of visitors eager to explore Smartee's unique innovations and solutions, particularly the Smartee GS mandibular repositioning solutions of S8, S9, S10, and S11. Smartee's commitment to innovation and excellence in orthodontic care resonates deeply with HADO's mission to empower the next generation of orthodontic professionals. Prof. Gang Shen from Taikang Bybo, Smartee's Chief Scientist in R&D, was invited by HADO to deliver a keynote lecture titled "The Clear S8 Orthopedic Therapy: Fundamental Mechanisms, Therapeutic Procedures, and Clinical Efficacy." Prof. Gang Shen's presentation provided attendees with invaluable insights into a non-invasive approach for treating severe Class II malocclusion, addressing a pressing challenge in the current orthodontic field. Prof. Gang Shen, Smartee's Chief Scientist in R&D, was invited by HADO to deliver a keynote lecture   Prof. Gang Shen's presentation provided attendees with invaluable insights into a non-invasive approach for treating severe Class II malocclusion, addressing a pressing challenge in the current orthodontic field. Reflecting on Smartee's contribution, Dr. Felkai, Vice President of HADO, remarked, "Smartee clear aligners offer a blend of effectiveness in correcting malocclusion, comfort during wear, unique solutions and customization options. I'm particularly intrigued by Smartee's GS mandibular repositioning technology, which holds promise for addressing severe Class II malocclusions, also after the end of growth. On behalf of HADO, I look forward to welcoming more innovative orthodontic solution providers to future events." Dr. Felkai, Vice President of HADO, and Prof. Gang Shen discuss Smartee's mandibular repositioning technology with participating doctors. Smartee's participation underscores its dedication to empowering doctors and orthodontists with cutting-edge technologies and comprehensive support. With its series of unique solutions S1-S20, Smartee continues expanding its portfolio and has launched over 10 aligner products catering to different malocclusion problems for children, adolescents, and adults. For further information, please visit https://smarteealigners.com/ About Smartee Denti-Technology: Founded in 2004, Smartee is the leading provider of clear aligners and digital orthodontic solutions in China. Headquartered in Shanghai, Smartee has two research & development centers and manufacturing plants that are fully automated. By serving over 64,000 doctors from 48,000 medical institutions in over 47 countries, Smartee has achieved over 1 million perfect smiles worldwide. With the advance of digital solutions, Smartee continues expanding its portfolio and has launched over 10 aligner products catering to different malocclusion problems for children, adolescents and adults. Collaborating with Prof Gang Shen and his Orthodontic Team, Smartee has developed an innovative product: Smartee GS, which provides orthodontists with mandibular repositioning technology to treat patients with complex indications including facial prognathism, facial retrognathism and mandibular deviation more effectively. 

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JETOUR Entering Global RHD Market Further Extends Its
JETOUR Entering Global RHD Market Further Extends Its "Travel+" Strategy

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On May 21st, JETOUR Auto made its global RHD products debut at the Malaysia Auto Show, which marked JETOUR officially entering global RHD market with its 'Travel+' strategy. Guests, media, and partners in Malaysia gathered at the auto show to witness JETOUR's new era in the RHD market. JETOUR Malaysia RHD Launch Event "The launch of RHD models shows that JETOUR's product line becomes more diverse, capable of meeting users' needs in different countries and regions. With a profound understanding of market trends and demands, JETOUR accelerates its global strategic layout." said Kevin Xu, Vice President of JETOUR International. DASHING and X70 PLUS RHD models launched in Malaysia not only retain the popular features of the product series but also integrate local elements, further enhancing safety and comfort to meet the needs of young Malaysians and family users. As one of the important economies and the second-largest automotive market in Southeast Asia, Malaysia is a strategic RHD market for JETOUR. Over the next five years, JETOUR plans to develop 80 sales networks in Malaysia and achieve a 150,000-unit sales target, becoming a mainstream auto brand in Malaysia. According to Kevin Xu, JETOUR will build the whole industry chain in Malaysia, including marketing, services, finance, local manufacturing, and parts localization, and will export to other markets in Southeast Asia. "Malaysia witnessed significant growth in automotive industry, with nearly 800,000 units sold in 2023. As a new auto brand, JETOUR has made remarkable achievements of over 1.1 million units sold within only 68 months. We are confident in JETOUR's performance in Malaysia. In 2025 and 2026, we plan to introduce more models, including traditional ICE vehicles, PHEVs, and BEVs, satisfying users' demands for economical and environment-friendly travel in Malaysia." said Nor Kamalah Binti Hashim, Director of JETOUR Auto Malaysia. In the second half of this year, JETOUR will enter markets such as Indonesia, Thailand, and South Africa. Continuing with the family travel series represented by DASHING and X70 PLUS, JETOUR plans to launch RHD models of off-road travel T series in the first quarter of 2025. JETOUR Auto has covered over 50 countries and regions, including the Middle East, Central and South America, Africa and Asia-Pacific, with more than 600 sales and service networks. Focusing on globalization, JETOUR has also proposed the "International Million Strategy": by 2030, it is expected to establish over 1,600 distribution networks and 10 KD assembly plants for more than 80 markets worldwide and achieve over 1 million unit sales and 100 billion yuan in revenue. With JETOUR's deployment in the RHD market, the "Travel+" strategy will be further developed and innovated on both product and marketing, strengthening JETOUR's position as the premier brand in the global "Travel+" auto market.

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Launching | The MarTech Summit Hong Kong, taking place on 9 July 2024
Launching | The MarTech Summit Hong Kong, taking place on 9 July 2024

Levelling Up With High-Performance & Sleeker MarTech HONG KONG, May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The MarTech Summit Hong Kong is taking place on 9 July 2024 at Grand Ballroom, Kowloon Shangri-La. The MarTech Summit Hong Kong | 9 July 2024 In today's dynamic landscape, upgrading to high-performance MarTech solutions is crucial for success. As we gear up for The MarTech Summit Hong Kong, we're thrilled to announce a fresh speaker lineup and an agenda packed with engaged panel discussions, fireside chats, keynote presentations, and more! With 85% attendance from senior leadership, including C-suite executives, department heads, directors, and others, you're guaranteed unparalleled opportunities to learn and network with industry leaders. This marks our third consecutive year hosting the event in Hong Kong, demonstrating our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences and fostering invaluable connections in this vibrant city. You can personalise your agenda with the most relevant topics and valuable groups to exchange insights. The sessions are delivered in various formats: Panel Discussions, Fireside Chats, Keynote Presentations, Interactive Roundtables, and Networking Sessions. Secure your passes now: https://themartechsummit.com/hongkong-registration What Will We Talk About? The MarTech Summit Hong Kong 2024 is filled with dynamic discussions, such as Keynote Presentations, Fireside Chats, Panel Discussions, Interactive Roundtables, and plentiful Networking opportunities! We guarantee that 85% of attendees are senior-level MarTech leaders or higher. This assembly offers an invaluable platform for you to connect with peers across organisations and industries, exchanging experiences and ideas on the challenges you have faced or are preparing to overcome. We will delve into all the hottest topics: Data-Driven Marketing: First-Party Data, Customer Data Platforms, Data Democratisation, Actionable Data Insights & Data Privacy in a Cookieless World. Customer Experience & Engagement: Personalisation, Customer & Brand Loyalty, Omnichannel Engagement, Digital Experience Led Growth & Customer Lifetime Value. Emerging Marketing Technologies: Location-Based Experience, Influencer Marketing Tools, Future of Work for Marketing Teams, Digital Work Management & Digital Transformation Amid AI Revolution. Breakout Roundtables: Deep dive into Customer Retention, Ads Verification & Consumer Intelligence. With over 30 speakers representing industry-leading companies, including Prudential, Bonhams, Jardine Restaurant Group, Schneider Electric, CFA Institute, Hilti, Cigna, HK Express, Marriott International, Publicis Media & MORE! Check out the Speaker Line-up here! Get tickets now! https://themartechsummit.com/hongkong-registration Interested in becoming a partner? Don't hesitate to get in touch with us at sponsor@themartechsummit.com. Group rates are available upon request for 3+ attendees. Get a quote at marketing@themartechsummit.com.  Stay up to date with our Speaker Line-up, Session Information, and Agenda Updates by following us on: LinkedIn   Instagram   YouTube Facebook   X   We are looking forward to meeting you in Hong Kong on 9 July 2024! Check our 2023 Highlights The MarTech Summit Asia is hosted by BEETc, an event company specialised in bringing together Senior Level Thought-Leadership Conferences, internationally.

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Launching | The MarTech Summit Jakarta, taking place on 26 June 2024
Launching | The MarTech Summit Jakarta, taking place on 26 June 2024

Shaping the Next Wave of Digital Dynamics JAKARTA, Indonesia, May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The MarTech Summit Jakarta is taking place on 26 June 2024 at Hotel Mulia Senayan Jakarta. The MarTech Summit Jakarta | 26 June 2024 The MarTech Summit is coming to Jakarta for the second time, bringing together some of the brightest minds and most innovative companies in the industry. With insightful panel discussions, fireside chats, thought-provoking keynote presentations, and interactive roundtables, you will leave the summit equipped with the latest tools and strategies to elevate your marketing efforts. This summit will provide a unique platform for the likes of CMOs, Heads, Directors etc to network, learn and stay ahead of the curve in the ever-evolving world of MarTech. You can personalise your agenda with the most relevant topics and valuable groups to exchange insights. The sessions are delivered in various formats: Panel Discussions, Fireside Chats, Keynote Presentations, Interactive Roundtables, and Networking Sessions. Secure your passes now: https://themartechsummit.com/jakarta-registration What Will We Talk About? The MarTech Summit Jakarta is filled with dynamic discussions, such as Keynote Presentations, Fireside Chats, Panel Discussions, Interactive Roundtables, and plentiful Networking opportunities! We guarantee that 85% of attendees are senior-level MarTech leaders or higher. This assembly offers an invaluable platform for you to connect with peers across organisations and industries, exchanging experiences and ideas on the challenges you have faced or are preparing to overcome. We will delve into all the hottest topics: Data-Driven Marketing: Customer Data Analytics, First-Party Data, Cookieless, Hyper-Personalisation, Actionable Data Insights. Customer Experience & Engagement: Social Media Marketing, Omnichannel Marketing, Digital Experience & User Experience, Partnership & CX & Next-Gen CX. Emerging Marketing Technologies: Location Marketing, Next-Gen Marketing, Marketing Automation, Digital Content Marketing, Ad Verification & Digital Media Viewability. Digital Transformation: Digital Marketing Transformation, New Partnerships, Digital-First, Digital Product & Services Marketing, Media Marketing Transformation. Check out the full topic list here: https://themartechsummit.com/jakarta#topics With over 25 speakers representing industry-leading companies, including Danone, Home Credit, Zurich Insurance, IKEA, Bata, Telkomsel, Quipper, Pluang, Bluebird, MRT Jakarta, RevComm, Modena, Philips, AlloBank, MNC Media & MORE! Check out the Speaker Line-up here! Get tickets now! https://themartechsummit.com/jakarta-registration Interested in becoming a partner? Don't hesitate to get in touch with us at sponsor@themartechsummit.com. Group rates are available upon request for 3+ attendees. Get a quote at marketing@themartechsummit.com.  Stay up to date with our Speaker Line-up, Session Information, and Agenda Updates by following us on: LinkedIn   Instagram   YouTube Facebook   X   We are looking forward to meeting you in Jakarta on 26 June 2024! Check our 2023 Highlights The MarTech Summit Asia is hosted by BEETc, an event company specialised in bringing together Senior Level Thought-Leadership Conferences, internationally.

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Launching | The MarTech Summit Manila, taking place on 3 July 2024
Launching | The MarTech Summit Manila, taking place on 3 July 2024

Revolutionising the Digital Journey: MarTech Strategies for Today's Marketers MANILA, Philippines, May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The MarTech Summit Manila is taking place on 3 July 2024 at Sheraton Manila Bay. The MarTech Summit Manila | 3 July 2024 This year, The MarTech Summit is excited to announce its first event in Manila, a major hub in Southeast Asia's digital economy. Bringing together regional industry leaders and innovators, the event explores MarTech trends. Having been successfully held across Asia, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand & Indonesia, this English-speaking summit will feature panel discussions, fireside chats, and keynotes, empowering attendees to shape future marketing initiatives and drive sustainable growth. This exclusive platform offers CMOs, Heads, Directors, and other industry professionals the opportunity to network, learn, and remain at the forefront of the rapidly evolving MarTech landscape. You can personalise your agenda with the most relevant topics and valuable groups to exchange insights. The sessions are delivered in various formats: Panel Discussions, Fireside Chats, Keynote Presentations, Interactive Roundtables, and Networking Sessions. Secure your passes now: https://themartechsummit.com/manila-registration What Will We Talk About? The MarTech Summit Manila 2024 is filled with dynamic discussions, such as Keynote Presentations, Fireside Chats, Panel Discussions, Interactive Roundtables, and plentiful Networking opportunities! We guarantee that 85% of attendees are senior-level MarTech leaders or higher. This assembly offers an invaluable platform for you to connect with peers across organisations and industries, exchanging experiences and ideas on the challenges you have faced or are preparing to overcome. We will delve into all the hottest topics: Next-Gen Customer Experience & Engagement: Interactive Contents for Customer Engagement, Social Media Marketing & Influencer Marketing, Content Marketing Strategy, Digital Experience Led Growth & Lifecycle Marketing Automation. Data-Driven Marketing: Personalisation, Omnichannel Strategy, Big Data & Marketing, Customer Data Analytics & Actionable Data Insights. Emerging Marketing Technologies: AI-Driven Marketing, MarTech Tool Advancement, Marketing Automation, Social Media Ecommerce & Mobile App Marketing. Consumer Marketing Relationships: Customer Lifetime Value (CLV), Customer Journey Mapping & Analytics, AI-driven CRM, Predictive Analytics & Customer Loyalty & Retention. Check out the Speaker Line-up here! Get tickets now! https://themartechsummit.com/manila-registration Interested in becoming a partner? Don't hesitate to get in touch with us at sponsor@themartechsummit.com. Group rates are available upon request for 3+ attendees. Get a quote at marketing@themartechsummit.com.  Watch more on our YouTube channel! Stay up to date with our Speaker Line-up, Session Information, and Agenda Updates by following us on: LinkedIn   Instagram   YouTube Facebook   X   We are looking forward to meeting you in Manila on 3 July! The MarTech Summit Asia is hosted by BEETc, an event company specialised in bringing together Senior Level Thought-Leadership Conferences, internationally.

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Tencent Demonstrates Longstanding Dedication to Protecting and Enhancing the Value of IP at INTA's 2024 Annual Meeting
Tencent Demonstrates Longstanding Dedication to Protecting and Enhancing the Value of IP at INTA's 2024 Annual Meeting

ATLANTA, May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- At this week's International Trademark Association (INTA) 2024 Annual Meeting, INTA partner and Meeting sponsor Tencent joined thousands of attendees in celebrating the essential role of IP in creativity, commerce, and innovation. The company showcased how it combats intellectual property (IP) infringement across its platforms and works with global brands to create and deliver next-generation brand experiences in video games and other digital worlds. Tencent participates in INTA’s 2024 Annual Meeting “Level Up Your Brand: Harnessing the Power of Video Games for Interactive Marketing and Consumer Engagement” panel at the Innovation Marketplace. In addition to contributing to panel discussions alongside IP experts during the Meeting, Tencent convened a workshop series highlighting the company's efforts to protect IP through its Weixin Brand Protection Platform (BPP). "At Tencent, intellectual property has long served as a core driver of our businesses, supporting the development, licensing, and distribution of some of the most popular video games, TV shows, movies, and music enjoyed around the world. It is an honor to support INTA's Annual Meeting and the bringing together of the global IP community dedicated to the exchange of knowledge and best practices," said Danny Marti, Tencent Head of Public Affairs and Global Policy. "The company's IP journey has led Tencent to recently be recognized as the largest filer of trademark applications in the world, a recognition of our IP-intensive business models spanning across our technology and entertainment portfolios. IP provides the framework and incentives to develop and pursue commercial and other opportunities that enrich our lives and our communities. Tencent is committed to continuously improving IP frameworks and enhancing brand value in evolving digital worlds." During the five-day event, which was attended by more than 9,650 IP stakeholders from 136 countries, Tencent's knowledge-sharing sessions included: Level Up Your Brand: Harnessing the Power of Video Games for Interactive Marketing and Consumer Engagement Rozita Tolouey, Tencent Head of Business Development & Partnerships, North America, and Jaymes Wu, Tencent Games Game Operations Manager, participated alongside Holly Upgren, Polaris Senior Associate Marketing Manager – Corporate Partnerships, and Alexandre Rudoni, Allen & Overy IP & Litigation Partner. The panel, moderated by World Trademark Review Managing Editor Trevor Little, highlighted the ways brands and video game developers can successfully engage consumers by integrating IP in video games. Tolouey and Wu spoke about opportunities and emerging trends in the licensing of trademarks in video games; lessons learned and considerations for video game studios and brands seeking to promote in-game branding; and the evolution of consumer marketing from static ads to interactive and immersive entertainment experiences. Weixin Brand Protection Workshops Shuru Chen, Senior Legal Counsel, Tencent, and Ross Zhang, Tencent Legal Counsel, hosted six dynamic workshops on the Weixin Brand Protection Platform (BPP). During the workshops, Chen and Zhang summarized Tencent's recent advances in protecting IP rights and safeguarding against illicit activity, including the advertising and sale of counterfeit goods on Weixin, Tencent's unique multifaceted communication service serving more than a billion users and bridging private and public features like direct messaging, group chats, Official Accounts, and third-party Mini-Programs. Chen and Zhang also spoke about Weixin's use of innovative solutions, increased proactive measures, and enhanced enforcement tools to help minimize and deter prohibited activity across the platform's private and public features. They shared the latest BPP enforcement data with an audience of trade association representatives, content creators, rightsholders, and policy experts, underscoring how effective Tencent's approach to IP protection has been in reducing bad actors' misuse of the platform and demonstrating why so many of the world's leading brands choose to leverage Weixin as a vital channel for engaging directly with consumers. Anti-Counterfeiting Roundtable Tencent joined leading brands, IP owners, experts, and government officials at INTA's Anti-Counterfeiting Workshop. The discussion explored the complexities of anti-counterfeiting strategies; new opportunities for IP owners, governments, and enforcement agencies to collaborate across jurisdictions; the latest tools and techniques to help identify and track counterfeit goods online and offline; and proven IP enforcement measures in cases involving artificial intelligence and the metaverse. [Far Left] Ross Zhang, Legal Counsel at Tencent, speaking at the Anti-Counterfeiting Roundtable [Center] Rozita Tolouey, Tencent Head of Business Development & Partnerships, North America (Left), and Jaymes Wu, Tencent Games Game Operations Manager (Right) participating in the“Level Up Your Brand: Harnessing the Power of Video Games for Interactive Marketing and Consumer Engagement”panel [Far Right] Shuru Chen, Senior Legal Counsel at Tencent, presenting at the Weixin Brand Protection Workshop Over the course of the Meeting, Tencent also welcomed attendees to an opening reception that included opportunities to learn how the company's innovative digital platforms, including Weixin and WeChat, connect users to content and services and its global role as a creator, distributor, and licensor of high-quality entertainment for the hundreds of millions of people who use Tencent Video, Tencent Music, and Tencent Games. To learn more about Tencent's presence at INTA 2024, please visit: https://www.tencent.com/en-us/media/inta-2024.html.  About Tencent Tencent is a global technology and entertainment company, connecting users to unparalleled content and services through innovative platforms. WeChat and Weixin serve over one billion people globally, helping this community connect with family, friends, and their favorite brands and merchants. Tencent Video and Tencent Music deliver the best in TV, cinema, sports, and music to millions worldwide, and Tencent Games has developed and published some of the world' most popular video games. Tencent joins INTA members in celebrating the important role of IP in supporting creativity, innovation, and enterprise. Tencent is a proud supporter of the 146th Annual Meeting.

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⁠Elitery Named Google Cloud Managed Services Provider in Indonesia
⁠Elitery Named Google Cloud Managed Services Provider in Indonesia

JAKARTA, Indonesia, May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Elitery, a leading provider of cloud-based solutions and services, proudly announced it is now a Google Cloud Managed Services Provider (MSP). A Google Cloud Managed Services Provider (MSP) is a trusted partner that helps businesses leverage the full potential of Google Cloud technologies through expert management, support, and optimization services. This milestone makes Elitery one of the first local Google Cloud MSP partners in Indonesia, reinforcing its leadership in the regional cloud computing industry. As a Google Cloud MSP, Elitery has an unwavering commitment to excellence. Elitery has successfully completed audits that assess both personnel expertise and service quality, ensuring alignment with Google Cloud's stringent standards. This commitment to excellence aligns with international benchmarks. As a Google Cloud MSP, Elitery will deliver a comprehensive suite of managed services, including infrastructure management, application management, and security management. Customers will benefit from Elitery's extensive expertise in Google Cloud technologies, ensuring they maximize the value of their cloud investments. "We are honored to be a Google Cloud Managed Service Provider partner," said Kresna Adiprawira, President Director at Elitery. "This is a testament to our commitment to providing the highest quality cloud services to our customers. We look forward to collaborating with Google Cloud to help businesses of all sizes achieve their cloud transformation goals." Elitery has a proven track record of delivering cloud solutions that meet the unique needs of businesses in Indonesia. The company's team of experienced Google Cloud-certified professionals is dedicated to helping customers succeed in the cloud. Elitery's Google Cloud expertise is supported by Cloud Migration and Infrastructure Specializations. Also, the company's impact in the public sector has been recognized with the Google Cloud Public Sector Partner of the Year award for Asia Pacific for two consecutive years (2023 & 2024). "This partnership with Google Cloud is a major milestone for Elitery," added Kresna Adiprawira, President Director at Elitery. "It allows us to expand our reach and help more businesses in Indonesia maximize the benefits of cloud computing. We are confident that our expertise and experience will deliver exceptional value to our customers." Elitery's Google Cloud MSP services are now available to customers in Indonesia. For more information, please visit https://elitery.com/google-cloud-managed-services/. https://youtu.be/2WMWiC7vit4?si=x8-LiPwknh1YZBNh https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rMAcZkHvHFQ https://drive.google.com/file/d/1F7-M4stLaj2vuh4CQauaW1huJddrb5qS/view About Elitery: Founded in 2011, PT Data Sinergitama Jaya, Tbk (later known as "Elitery") is an IT-managed service company that focuses on cloud and cybersecurity services. With a good corporate reputation, Elitery is trusted by world-class cloud services providers, such as Google Cloud as a go-to-market partner in Indonesia. Since 2011, Elitery has handled many mission-critical systems accessed by tens of millions of users daily. Customers from various sectors, both private and government have also trusted Elitery. Equipped with the experience and competence that Elitery has, Elitery is confident that it can become a trusted partner for your organization's digital transformation.

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Exciting Kickoff for 2024 Visit Korean Heritage Campaign with Star-Studded Performances and New Programs
Exciting Kickoff for 2024 Visit Korean Heritage Campaign with Star-Studded Performances and New Programs

SEOUL, South Korea, May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- The Korea Heritage Service and the Korea Heritage Agency kicked off the 2024 Visit Korean Heritage Campaign with a special performance, Korea On Stage, at Gyeongbokgung Palace's Heungnyemun Square on May 21. Korea On Stage, 2024 Visit Korean Heritage Campaign, featuring Danielle from NewJeans Launched in 2020, the Visit Korean Heritage Campaign aims to promote the beauty and value of Korea's national heritage. This year, with the transition to a new national heritage system, the campaign offers expanded opportunities for both locals and visitors to experience Korea's rich cultural legacy. Various programs will be introduced, utilizing heritage sites across the country. Actress Cho Boah, appointed as the campaign ambassador Popular actress Cho Boah has been appointed as the campaign ambassador. She will play a key role in promoting Korean heritage, including featuring in a video showcasing the stunning Changdeokgung Palace, part of the "Royalty Road" in the "Korean Heritage Route." The campaign's second group of supporters, selected on May 10, also commenced their activities. These 30 supporters will help highlight the charm of national heritage through the Korean Heritage Route and the Korean Heritage Passport Tour. 2024 Korea On Stage: A Grand Celebration  2024 Korea On Stage, marking the first event of the 2024 campaign, took place on May 21 at Heungnyemun Square, Gyeongbokgung Palace. Since its debut in 2020, Korea On Stage has showcased the excellence and beauty of Korea's national heritage through performances by renowned Korean artists. The event has been held at various locations, including Suwon Hwaseong Fortress in 2020, Namwon Gwanghalluwon Garden in 2021, Gyeongbokgung Palace's back garden and the Cheongwadae (Blue House) in 2022, and in London, UK, in 2023. NewJeans' Danielle hosted this year's Korea On Stage, featured performances by NewJeans, Fromis 9, DEEP N DAP, ALL(H)OURS, ATBO, Hyolyn, and the casts of the musicals "Hero" and "The Last Empress." Expansion of "Heritage Route" programs The campaign will feature various programs through the Korean Heritage Route. From May 10 to 19, the Gwandong Pungryu Era Route included the Gwandong Pungryu Train and Moonlight Visit to Seongyojang House which received positive feedback for their immersive experiences of the region's scenic beauty. In June, the Korean Temple Monasteries Route will feature "Finding Myself at the Temple" at Tongdosa Temple, a head temple of the Jogye Order of Korean Buddhism, located in Yangsan, Gyeongsangnamdo Province. In October, a special morning walk program for international visitors at Changdeokgung Palace, part of the Royalty Route, will showcase the palace's natural beauty. Additionally a public call for tourism products utilizing national heritage sites is underway. This initiative will develop high-quality tourism experiences unique to these sites, with up to nine tour packages receiving funding and operational support. To facilitate easier access to these heritage sites, collaborative programs with Korail and Kumho Express will be expanded. The Gwandong Pungryu Train program will include the operation of the Santa Train, and dedicated shuttle buses will be provided for the Gwandong Pungryu Era Route and the Korean Temple Monasteries Route. Revamped Korean Heritage Passport Tour The Korean Heritage Passport Tour has been revamped to feature traditional Korean beauty and representative heritage sites from ten routes. Updated information on these sites has also been provided to enhance visitor convenience. Participants can collect stamps at each heritage site and receive gifts, such as mini tumblers and small bags. The newly designed passport can be obtained at the Korean Heritage Tourist center at Incheon International Airport and through the campaign's official website. A special edition passport featuring "Barabapa" characters by artist Hong Won-pyo will be available to the first 2,000 visitors. For more information on the Visit Korean Heritage Campaign, visit its official website (kh.or.kr/visit/en), YouTube (youtube.com/koreanheritage), and Instagram (instagram.com/visitkoreanheritage).

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XCMG Celebrates the 6th Customer Festival with Global Clients, Showcasing Innovations in Sustainable and Intelligent Construction
XCMG Celebrates the 6th Customer Festival with Global Clients, Showcasing Innovations in Sustainable and Intelligent Construction

XUZHOU, China, May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Over 1,200 construction equipment dealers, buyers and contractors from more than 60 countries gathered in Xuzhou, China, for the 6th annual XCMG Customer Festival, alongside overseas venues in Germany, Turkey, Japan, and more. The event highlighted XCMG's latest achievements in intelligent manufacturing through a comprehensive display of over a hundred pieces of equipment at the company's comprehensive testing ground, in Xuzhou, China. jwplayer.key="3Fznr2BGJZtpwZmA+81lm048ks6+0NjLXyDdsO2YkfE="   XCMG Celebrates the 6th Customer Festival with Global Clients, Showcasing Innovations in Sustainable and Intelligent Construction. jwplayer('myplayer1').setup({file: 'https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2419192/video.mp4', image: 'https://mma.prnasia.com/media2/2419192/video.mp4?p=medium', autostart:'false', stretching : 'uniform', width: '512', height: '288'}); The festival marked an important occasion for XCMG Machinery ("XCMG", SHE: 000425), one of the world's leading construction machinery manufacturers with an 81-year history. Chairman Yang Dongsheng emphasized the company's commitment to leading engineering technology and creating a better future through equipment innovation. "XCMG will continue to embrace our mission vision of 'Empower Solid Future' by vigorously promoting the application of artificial intelligence technology," said Yang Dongsheng. Showcasing Advanced Equipment Solutions At the heart of this year's festival was the demonstration of XCMG's advanced equipment capabilities across various scenarios, including earthmoving and road construction. Notably featured were their new generation D360 bulldozer and D200H high-drive dozers performing alongside GR1905T graders for foundation work; XS125 single drum rollers for compaction; and innovative cold recycling machines like the XLZ2303S showcasing integrated construction solutions. Driving Sustainable Development with New Energy Products A significant highlight was the introduction of nearly thirty new energy products across ten categories, including road machinery, earth-moving equipment, cranes, material handling equipment, and aerial work platforms. The XCT25G5_1HEV hybrid crane exemplifies this shift towards sustainability with its ability to switch between pure electric, range extension, and plug-in modes, achieving over 40% fuel savings. The festival also witnessed the grand unveiling and delivery to South American clients of China's largest export all-terrain crane designed specifically for wind power installations—the XCA3000BR—demonstrating unmatched lifting capabilities within its industry segment. Interactive Experiences and Intelligent Manufacturing Insights Attendees had opportunities to engage directly with high-tech machinery through dynamic demonstrations that included operating off-road cranes, among other new energy models. Furthermore, global customers were invited to explore intelligent production lines firsthand, witnessing up close how smart manufacturing processes are revolutionizing production efficiency. In addition to showcasing groundbreaking products designed for efficiency and environmental friendliness, such as the XCT25G5_1HEV hybrid crane, XCMG shows to leap forward in reducing carbon footprint while enhancing operational performance. For more details of the yearly festival, please visit https://www.facebook.com/XCMGGroup or www.xcmgglobal.com Over 1,200 construction equipment dealers, buyers and contractors from more than 60 countries gathered in Xuzhou, China, for the 6th annual XCMG Customer Festival.

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South Korea's leading AI startup, Crowdworks AI, participates in 'VIVATECH 2024'…Target the European AI Market
South Korea's leading AI startup, Crowdworks AI, participates in 'VIVATECH 2024'…Target the European AI Market

SEOUL, South Korea, May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Crowdworks AI (KOSDAQ:355390, CEO Kim Woosung) announces its participation for the second consecutive year at VIVATECH 2024, Europe's biggest startup and tech event. Since its inception in 2016, VIVATECH has served as a nexus for startups, investors, buyers, and media entities, fostering an environment of the latest tech trends exchange. Last year, the event boasted an impressive turnout, with over 150,000 attendees and more than 2,800 promising tech startups in attendance. For Crowdworks AI, this year's participation signifies an opportunity to elevate its profile as a leading AI startup from South Korea within the European market and explore avenues for collaboration. Crowdworks AI is an AI startup contributing to the advancement of South Korea's AI industry. It collaborates with leading South Korean IT companies for building training data for its LLMs such as Naver's HyperCLOVA X and LG EXAONE, as well as contributing to the establishment of national-level data standards. Trusted by 500 clients worldwide, the company has led the enhancement of trustworthiness in AI-ready data and fostering the evolution of AI technology in South Korea. At the event, among its offerings will be real-world use cases highlighting Enterprise custom LLMs, particularly in healthcare and retail. Leveraging its expertise in human-powered data preparation and post-training, the company will introduce an end-to-end Enterprise custom LLM solution for trustworthy AI. Especially with its presence at Station F in France, Crowdworks AI anticipates strengthening partnerships with European companies and expanding synergies following its participation in this event. Since its occupancy in May last year, Crowdworks AI has rapidly connected with potential international clients, validating its potential in international markets. Kim Woosung, CEO of Crowdworks AI, expressed anticipation for the participation of VIVATECH, stating, "Participating in VIVATECH provides a great opportunity to showcase Crowdworks AI's technology and capabilities to the European market. We will actively seek diverse collaboration opportunities with global companies and explore meaningful results in international markets." Meanwhile, Crowdworks AI has been recognized for its technological excellence on the global stage, being listed as a sample vendor for Gen AI in a report published by a prestigious global research institution. With participation in major international IT exhibitions like CES and MWC, Crowdworks AI continues to expand its footprint in international markets.

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Conversational AI Takes Hold of Customer Engagements in APAC
Conversational AI Takes Hold of Customer Engagements in APAC

New Infobip report aims to provide insights into the current landscape of Asia Pacific companies seeking AI-powered conversational AI tools KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Global cloud communications platform Infobip has launched a new report featuring research insights by leading analyst firm IDC. The Infobip eBook titled "Driving Meaningful Customer Engagement with Conversational AI" highlights the growing importance of unified conversational solutions powered by conversational AI, especially within the Asia Pacific region. Driving meaningful customer engagement with conversational AI Customer expectations have changed in today's digital information era. They expect authenticity and more personalized attention from brands. Yet many organizations have little to no capabilities to deliver unique experiences. The IDC Future of Customer Experience Survey 2023 revealed that 37% of organizations in China do not have the capability to maintain customer context across the customer journey and channels. This figure is higher in Malaysia (40%), Indonesia (60%) and India (60%). The same survey also reports that more brands are prioritizing interacting with their customers to establish superior customer experiences through increased allocations for corporate budgets towards improving customer experience (CX). Customer satisfaction and trust are the top investment areas for businesses in Malaysia (87%) and China (58%), while customer service and support are the main priorities for Indonesia (97%) and India (83%) businesses. Everyday Conversations Powered by AI The industry shift towards better CX is not unexpected. In the past, customers would have to wait for an available service agent to respond to their queries. Today, APAC businesses are empowering customers to find answers, request services, and complete transactions independently through the help of omnichannel communication solutions powered by conversational AI. By providing instant replies to common customer queries via conversational AI chatbots, businesses can accelerate time to first resolution and make customers feel more appreciated.  Conversational AI chatbots' functionalities now go beyond automatic simple replies – they provide a variety of useful features including automated data collection, promotional activities, and even purchase process guidance. "Generative AI has reshaped conversational experiences. Having a single source of truth across interactions and channels powers context. This customer context allows for more relevant and intelligent conversations, and raises the bar for personalization," said Lavanya Jindal, Senior Research Analyst, Asia/Pacific Customer Experience and Value Streams, IDC Asia/Pacific. Messaging Apps on The Rise Messaging apps have become increasingly popular across Asia, as customers prefer to communicate and purchase through digital channels. Recognizing this trend, brands in retail, digital commerce, financial services, and telcos are swiftly establishing their brand presence on popular platforms like WhatsApp and Viber, ensuring their services are readily available where their customers are most active. According to Infobip's latest messaging trends report, there was a 509% increase in WhatsApp messages in Indonesia, a 226% increase in chat apps in Vietnam, and a 34% increase in Viber messages in the Philippines. WhatsApp continues to dominate globally with more than 2.8 billion active users. But cultural preferences, local language, and integration have seen other messaging platforms gaining popularity in certain regions, such as LINE in Taiwan and Thailand, KakaoTalk in South Korea, and Zalo in Vietnam. In some countries, a messaging platform can claim market dominance due to its significant user bases, such as WeChat boasting 1.3 billion active users – almost all based in China. "In today's AI-driven landscape, CPaaS empowers businesses to easily orchestrate customer engagement across the entire journey, driving efficiency and maximizing value. It's about doing more with less, reducing costs, and enhancing operational effectiveness, all while prioritizing long-term customer relationships", said Velid Begovic, VP Revenue at Infobip. APAC is Investing in Conversational AI The IDC Business Value Engineering 2023 Survey revealed that about 39% of businesses in the APAC region consider conversational AI to be a critically important investment priority in the next two years. The primary business motivators for investing in AI-powered apps for improving CX are mainly to improve customer success, loyalty, and advocacy, as well as products/services that reflect customer's needs. Chatbots are one of the top 2 areas that APAC businesses are planning to integrate GenAI, according to IDC's Future Enterprise Resiliency & Spending Survey Wave 1, January 2024. Conversational AI chatbots today are capable of quickly pulling contextual data relevant to customers and using it to offer not only delivery updates and product recommendations but also simple personalized greetings to make customers feel more welcome. "Conversational AI has gained significant momentum in recent years. To truly excel, it must be properly integrated across the technology stack alongside the human elements throughout the customer journey. Infobip stands ready to support businesses on this transformative journey," commented Begovic. To learn more about how conversational AI is reshaping customer experiences in the APAC region, download the report here: https://bit.ly/44UjRXE. - END - About Infobip Infobip is a global cloud communications platform that enables businesses to build connected experiences across all stages of the customer journey. Accessed through a single platform, Infobip's omnichannel engagement, identity, user authentication and contact centre solutions help businesses and partners overcome the complexity of consumer communications to grow business and increase loyalty. With over a decade of industry experience, Infobip has expanded to 70+ offices globally. It offers natively built technology with the capacity to reach over seven billion mobile devices and 'things' in 6 continents connected to over 9,700+ connections of which 800+ are direct operator connections. Infobip was established in 2006 and is led by its co-founders, CEO Silvio Kutić, Roberto Kutić and Izabel Jelenić. Recent award wins include: Infobip named to Fast Company's Annual List of the World's Most Innovative Companies (March 2024) Infobip ranked as number one Communications Platform as a Service (CPaaS) provider, in the inaugural MetriRank CPaaS Report from Metrigy (Dec 2023) Omdia Ranks Infobip as Leader for the second year running in its CPaaS Universe Report (Nov 2023) Infobip named a Leader in the Gartner® Magic Quadrant™ for Communications Platform as a Service (CPaaS) 2023 (Sept 2023) Infobip named a Leader in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide Communications Platform-as-a-Service (CPaaS) 2023 Vendor Assessment (May 2023) Infobip named a leader in the CPaaS Leaderboard, Juniper Research (March 2024) Infobip named a leader in the CCaaS Leaderboard, Juniper Research (Dec 2023) Infobip named a leader in the Juniper Customer Data Platform Leaderboard Report (July 2023)  

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The 10th World Water Forum Officially Begins, the President of the World Water Council Calls on Everyone to Become
The 10th World Water Forum Officially Begins, the President of the World Water Council Calls on Everyone to Become "Water Warriors"

BALI, Indonesia, May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Indonesian President Joko Widodo officially opened the 10th World Water Forum on Monday (5/20/2024) at the Bali Nusa Dua Convention Center (BNDCC). In his speech, Jokowi introduced the Balinese Subak irrigation system, which was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2012. President Joko Widodo (front, left) posed for a photo with President of World Water Council Loïc Fauchon (front, right) and several committee of the World Water Council for the 10th World Water Forum 2024 in Nusa Dua, Bali, on Monday, (20/5/2024) At the opening ceremony, Loïc Fauchon, the President of the World Water Council, expressed the hope that Indonesia's actions could be replicated by all countries and emphasized the importance of protection and conservation of water. Following the opening ceremony, President Jokowi chaired the High-Level Meeting where he stated that all countries should use this as a momentum to reinvigorate real action and collective commitment to address water challenges by sharing knowledge, promoting innovative solutions and implementing integrated water resources management. On the same day, the political sessions began with the Parliamentary Meeting which was officially opened by the Chairperson of the Indonesian House of Representatives Puan Maharani. She stated that the Parliament will support the agenda to achieve water security through diplomacy. On this occasion, the Bali Youth Plan has been hosting a series of side events including the World Youth Parliament for Water Sessions, World Water Council Youth Delegates Session and Youth Awarding. The Forum's Fair and Expo also launched with a total of 160 participants from 17 countries while the Bali Street Carnival enlivened the day with parades. The day concluded with 'Leaders Visit' to Ngurah Rai Forest Park (Tahura) where President Jokowi highlighted the collective responsibility to conserve and protect the mangrove ecosystem. According to the Minister of Public Works and Housing Basuki Hadimuljono, 10 Heads of state including from Indonesia, Timor Leste, Fiji, Tajikistan, Sri Lanka, Hungary, and Morocco, as well as Deputy Prime Ministers, from Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Slovakia, and three special envoys of the presidents of the Netherlands, France, and the United Arab Emirates are present and will participate in the series of events. In addition, 105 ministers from 132 countries and organizations, as well as 13 thousand participants are attending the forum.

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H3C Supports Species Protection in Yunnan's Tongbiguan Nature Reserve to Celebrate International Biodiversity Day
H3C Supports Species Protection in Yunnan's Tongbiguan Nature Reserve to Celebrate International Biodiversity Day

DEHONG, China, May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- On May 22, marking the 24th International Biodiversity Day, H3C responded to the 2024 theme "Be part of the Plan" by initiating the "AI with Love — ICT Technology Aiding Biodiversity Protection" public welfare project, in collaboration with the China Green Foundation. The project's initial phase focuses on the Tongbiguan Provincial Nature Reserve, situated in the westernmost tropical region of China in Yunnan Province, bordering Myanmar and close to Eastern Assam in India. This unique area is the only one in China featuring a tropical biota of the Irrawaddy River system. Shorea assamica Dyer - a symbolic species of Asian tropical rainforests Tongbiguan Nature Reserve hosts an exceptionally diverse ecosystem, housing 189 nationally endangered and key protected plants such as Shorea assamica Dyer and Dipterocarpus retusus, along with 215 nationally key protected animals like the Gaoligong Hoolock Gibbon, hornbills, and pangolins. However, the reserve faces challenges due to its remote geographical location and complex terrain. Persistent issues such as illegal poaching, overgrazing, forest destruction, and the invasion of non-native species continuously endanger the local wildlife. The reserve's capacity for internal scientific research and resource management also urgently requires enhancement to safeguard these invaluable natural resources through more effective technical monitoring and protection measures. Zhang Yongsheng (second from left), head of the Tongbiguan Provincial Nature Reserve Administration in Yunnan Province, accepts the donation To better integrate digital technology into species protection, H3C and the China Green Foundation have donated nearly 300,000 yuan worth of intelligent equipment to the reserve through the "AI with Love" project. This contribution aims to bolster the reserve's capabilities in monitoring, data collection, and analysis, thereby supporting the staff in undertaking more precise biodiversity protection tasks. Reserve staff using digital devices to monitor the rare species double-horned rhinoceros This initiative is in line with the "Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework" unveiled at the United Nations Biodiversity Conference (COP15) in December 2022, which sets forth the ambitious goal of protecting at least 30% of the world's land and oceans by 2030. H3C's contribution reflects a commitment to the international consensus on biodiversity protection. Zhang Yongsheng, head of the Tongbiguan Provincial Nature Reserve Administration, remarked, "The 'AI with Love' project has provided invaluable support to our reserve. The introduction of these intelligent devices will significantly enhance our ability to monitor and research tropical rainforest vegetation and nationally protected animals such as the hoolock gibbon and hornbills. We believe that these advanced technologies will enable us to conduct more efficient conservation efforts and furnish precise data for scientific research." Moreover, H3C's efforts resonate with the China Biodiversity Conservation Strategy and Action Plan (2023-2030) issued by the Ministry of Ecology and Environment in January 2024. The plan outlines the strategic direction and key tasks for biodiversity conservation in the new era, emphasizing the pivotal role of technology in these endeavors. Looking ahead, H3C is committed to continuing its focus on biodiversity conservation, progressively augmenting its deployment of intelligent products and digital solutions in this area. Through this project, H3C also aims to inspire more enterprises and societal forces to join the biodiversity conservation movement, thereby contributing to the building of a global ecological civilization.

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Equitable access to treatment must keep pace with latest advances in reproductive surgery
Equitable access to treatment must keep pace with latest advances in reproductive surgery

MANILA, Philippines, May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Profound benefits of new developments in reproductive surgery that facilitate parenthood and enhance quality of life will only be fully realised by making them accessible to all people experiencing the distress of infertility. The challenge lies in overcoming socio-economic and geographic influences and ethical dilemmas to ensure equitable and affordable access to these life changing procedures. Renowned Swiss reproductive surgeon, Professor Anis Feki, will dissect this challenge at the 2024 Congress of the Asia Pacific Initiative on Reproduction (ASPIRE) in the Philippines this week. Specialist scientists, clinicians, nurses and counsellors in fertility health from around the world are attending the Congress from 23 to 26 May to address new milestones in the diagnosis and treatment of one in every six couples living with infertility. Professor Feki – Head of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Hospital Cantonal and Professor at the University of Fribourg, Switzerland – says it is vital that all segments of society benefit from exciting advances in reproductive surgery and supporting technologies. In his opening lecture at the ASPIRE Congress in Manila, Professor Feki, will stress that "reproductive surgery extends beyond its medical and technical aspects to touch upon far reaching elements of human life and well-being. He says: "There are multiple outcomes in the future of reproductive surgery. In helping to facilitate parenthood, this form of surgery also strives to address deep psychological impacts of failing to conceive leading to feelings of inadequacy, stress and depression. "Additionally, it aims to overcome pain and discomfort from conditions such as endometriosis that impact on quality of life. "However, there are significant disparities in access to reproductive health care services influenced by socio-economic status, ethnicity and geographic location. "The role of health insurance and government policies in covering advanced reproductive care can greatly affect accessibility. There is a need for policy reforms to include comprehensive coverage for reproductive health issues." Professor Feki, who is Chair-elect of the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology, said technological advances, particularly minimally invasive and robotic surgeries, have significantly improved patient outcomes with quicker recovery times. "Emerging fields such as regenerative and precision medicine are revolutionising reproductive surgery by enabling more personalised and effective interventions," he said. "Innovations such as stem cell therapy and tissue engineering to restore fertility and hormone function are at the forefront offering new possibilities for treating infertility and other reproductive conditions. "Artificial intelligence algorithms can analyse vast amounts of medical data to enable surgeons to make more informed decisions and tailor approaches to each patient enhancing surgical precision and safety. "Machine learning algorithms can also sift through genetic information to identify mutations and genetic markers associated with infertility, guiding personalised treatment strategies. "Robotic surgery has enhanced the precision, flexibility and control beyond the capabilities of conventional techniques, especially in complex procedures. "However, these approaches can be costly, making them inaccessible to some patients in different countries. The challenge lies in ensuring equitable access to these life-changing procedures so they are available to wider populations." The ASPIRE Congress is being held at the Philippine International Convention Centre in Manila from 23 to 26 May. For further information, go to the Congress website www.aspire2024.com   

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Hyundai Motor Drives Sustainable Clean Logistics in U.S. with Vision for Hydrogen Society
Hyundai Motor Drives Sustainable Clean Logistics in U.S. with Vision for Hydrogen Society

Hyundai Motor joins its third straight Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo to share its hydrogen vision, HTWO, and introduce its U.S. hydrogen commercial vehicle business At its press conference, Hyundai Motor shares its U.S. hydrogen commercial vehicle project milestones aimed at advancing hydrogen society Hyundai Motor and GLOVIS America announce HTWO Logistics, a new clean logistics partnership focusing on zero-emission transportation in Georgia The company previews a cabin enhancement concept and the addition of ADAS features for the Class 8 XCIENT Fuel Cell electric truck Hyundai Motor and Plus collaborate to test Level 4 autonomous driving technology on XCIENT Fuel Cell truck Fuel cell technology, digital exhibits of HTWO Grid and XCIENT Fuel Cell truck product enhancement concept on display at ACT Expo booth #530 LAS VEGAS and SEOUL, South Korea, May 22, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor Company (Hyundai Motor) today shared its hydrogen vision and introduced its U.S. clean logistics business powered by the company's Class 8 XCIENT Fuel Cell electric truck at the Advanced Clean Transportation (ACT) Expo 2024. Hyundai Motor Drives Sustainable Clean Logistics in U.S. with Vision for Hydrogen Society The company is exhibiting the XCIENT Fuel Cell truck and fuel cell system, along with digital exhibits, demonstrating the vehicle enhancement concept and its hydrogen value chain technologies, from May 20–23 at the Las Vegas Convention Center.  Building a hydrogen society roadmap At Hyundai Motor's press conference, Ken Ramirez, Executive Vice President and Head of Global Commercial Vehicle and Hydrogen Business at Hyundai Motor, highlighted the company's commitment to building a hydrogen society. He spoke about the true value of hydrogen and how Hyundai Motor Group (the Group) is leveraging its affiliates' cross-industry capabilities spanning the entire hydrogen value chain — from hydrogen production and storage to logistics, transport and diverse applications — to realize the company's vision for a hydrogen society. Earlier this year, Hyundai Motor announced a vision for the HTWO brand's expanding role in the hydrogen value chain, signaling that it will be the catalyst for a global energy transition. Hyundai Motor aims to realize its vision for a hydrogen society by leveraging the Group's integrated capabilities across various industries. "Our HTWO brand's expanding role reflects Hyundai's unique reach beyond mobility into an integrated hydrogen value chain to lead the global energy transition," Ramirez said. "We are like no other energy company with roots deeply grounded in mobility - and we are like no other mobility company with branches so far reaching into energy. Our mission has always been clear: leverage our strengths in both mobility and energy sectors to realize our vision for a hydrogen society." Joining the presentation, Jim Park, Senior Vice President and Head of Commercial Vehicle and Hydrogen Business Development at Hyundai Motor North America, detailed the company's rollout of its Class 8 XCIENT Fuel Cell electric trucks in key U.S. hydrogen logistics projects, including the NorCAL ZERO Project and Clean Logistics Project as further proof of the company's commitment. Last year through the NorCAL ZERO Project, Hyundai Motor deployed 30 XCIENT Fuel Cell trucks at the Port of Oakland and Port of Richmond to haul freight containers and vehicles, marking the single largest commercial deployment of Class 8 heavy-duty hydrogen fuel cell electric trucks in North America. In Georgia, the company is working on the Clean Logistics Project at its Hyundai Motor Group Metaplant America (HMGMA), to decarbonize the company's production facility. "This landmark port decarbonization initiative in California serves as a prime example of how hydrogen trucks are paving the way towards sustainable future logistics," Park said. "By replicating the success of NorCAL ZERO and tailoring it to specific customer needs, we at Hyundai aim to create a worldwide network of clean, hydrogen-powered operations." Hyundai Motor is actively working to decarbonize its captive logistics through the Clean Logistics Project. This year, the company will take a significant step by deploying XCIENT Fuel Cell trucks to its facility in Georgia. This deployment will begin Hyundai Motor's efforts to reduce emissions from its internal logistics operations. More information about Hyundai Motor and its products can be found at: https://www.hyundai.com/worldwide/en/  or Newsroom: Media Hub by Hyundai .

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CHAGEE Targets 100 Countries and 15 Billion Cups Annually in Global Expansion Drive
CHAGEE Targets 100 Countries and 15 Billion Cups Annually in Global Expansion Drive

With 130 million registered members worldwide, the Chinese tea brand aims to sell 15 billion of servings annually as it pioneers modern Oriental tea in future SHANGHAI, May 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- CHAGEE, a leading tea brand in China, is aggressively expanding its global reach. Junjie Zhang, Founder and CEO of CHAGEE At the International Tea Day 2024 - Modern Oriental Tea Innovation Forum, held on May 21st, Junjie Zhang, Founder and CEO of CHAGEE, revealed that the brand now serves over 130 million registered members worldwide. CHAGEE has set its sights on catering to consumers across 100 countries and delivering 15 billion of modern oriental tea each year. Since opening its first shop abroad in Malaysia in August 2019, CHAGEE has further expanded into Thailand and Singapore, and now operates over 4,500 stores globally. The expansion underscores the increasing international demand for oriental tea, with CHAGEE at the forefront of the trend. Speaking at the forum, Zhang said, "CHAGEE is dedicated to revitalizing ancient tea-making methods that date back 900 years through the use of modern technology. The initiative not only returns us to the origins of tea but also redefines the contemporary tea-drinking experience. CHAGEE is focused on promoting the health benefits of our products while facilitating cultural exchanges between China and the global community. Our objective is to build a world-class brand in the ready-to-drink tea market, offering consumers worldwide the opportunity to enjoy the taste of contemporary Asian tea." The Rise of Oriental Tea Brands on the Global Stage CHAGEE, which was established just six years ago in Yunnan province—considered one of the historic origins of tea in China, —has swiftly climbed the ranks to become a leader in the competitive tea beverage sector. Specializing in raw-leaf fresh milk tea, the company melds traditional oriental culture with tea heritage and innovation. Its expansion across all major provinces and cities throughout China illustrates CHAGEE's rapid growth and significant penetration in the global market. In 2023, CHAGEE achieved a Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) of 10.8 billion yuan in Chinese market. As of the first quarter of 2024, CHAGEE had achieved over 5.8 billion GMV and it's expected over 20 billion yuan by the end of 2024. More importantly, the oriental tea brand is increasingly attracting a younger audience. Diverging from the traditional tea market, which typically skews older, CHAGEE has captured the interest of consumers in the 15 to 50 age demographic. The broad appeal is significantly unifying the perception of modern oriental tea across generations. Over the past few years, CHAGEE has fused modern technology and health-conscious values with oriental traditions to promote its innovative tea products worldwide. In 2023, the brand enhanced its product formulations by removing artificial flavorings from its tea bases, eliminating creamers from its milk, and ensuring that its beverages contain zero trans fatty acids. CHAGEE also introduced novel features such as the Product ID Card and a Health Calculator, and took the unprecedented step of publishing calorie and nutrient content reports for its products, a first in the ready-to-drink tea industry. In early 2024, the company continued the lead in the industry by implementing the Nutritional Choice label at its Shanghai locations, introducing the first nutritional grading system specifically for tea beverages. The development ushers in a new era focused on managing sugar intake. In March, CHAGEE announced the glycemic index (GI) values for several tea beverages for the first time, providing a scientific basis for sugar management. Today, CHAGEE's signature offering, Jasmine Green Milk Tea, enjoys robust sales, with over 230 million servings sold annually. The standout beverage not only maintains a growing repurchase rate but also demonstrates the brand's commitment to meeting consumer expectations for quality, user experience, and health benefits. Modernized Operation Boosts Profitability Over the past few years, CHAGEE has dramatically transformed its operational processes, crucial in its mission to become a competitive force worldwide. The company has integrated modern management tools into its operations, establishing an online system that synchronizes the management of personnel, inventory, delivery, and store locations. This integration has led to the development of a holistic digital operations framework and a comprehensive digital management system, marking significant advancements in the industry's operational practices. CHAGEE stands alone as the sole freshly brewed tea company in the country to have successfully implemented a decentralized local service center. The company operates according to the '1+1+9+N' model, which encompasses a central headquarters, a dedicated local team, nine directly-managed stores, and an unlimited number of franchised stores. This structure offers substantial support for its franchisees, bolstering local operational capabilities and enhancing responsiveness to market dynamics. CHAGEE also maintains a policy of operating directly-managed stores prior to opening up a new market to franchising. When entering a new city, it first opens a flagship store to test the business model and establish a market presence. Depending on local market needs, the number of directly-managed stores may exceed nine to ensure business consistency is achieved prior to expanding the franchise network. The strategy has enabled rapid expansion and high profitability rates among CHAGEE's domestic stores over the past six years, significantly aiding its franchisees in becoming profitable. In the critical areas of digitization and intelligent technology, CHAGEE has continued to invest and achieve significant results. The company began integrating automated tea-making equipment in select shops in 2022 as part of a pilot initiative. The subsequent year, CHAGEE unveiled the next-generation TEA BAR, featuring innovative offerings like Tea Extreme Extract and Oriental Ice Tea, modernizing the traditional tea-drinking experience with a technological twist. The period also marked the official rollout of CHAGEE's proprietary automated tea-making equipment across its stores. To ensure a robust supply chain, CHAGEE directly sources all tea and milk for its domestic operations, managing distribution through the group's headquarters. The company has established multiple urban warehouses across the country to maintain optimal freshness of all raw materials. Internationally, tea products for CHAGEE's shops are also sourced and logistics are handled through the headquarters, adhering to all necessary international quarantine protocols. Additionally, high-quality milk and other raw materials used in each location comply with local regulations, supported by CHAGEE's local supply chains and storage solutions to facilitate procurement and distribution. At the forum, Zhang also discussed the intrinsic appeal of tea as one of the world's primary beverages, capable of transcending age, borders, and economic cycles. He envisages the future of modern oriental tea as both a return to its roots and a means of connecting people globally. "CHAGEE is focused not on creating demand but on discerning and satisfying the expectations of tea drinkers around the world." Zhang added. CHAGEE Targets 100 Countries and 15 Billion Cups Annually in Global Expansion Drive

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Announcement of The Shaw Laureates 2024
Announcement of The Shaw Laureates 2024

HONG KONG, May 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- 2024 Shaw Laureates (Left to Right): Shrinivas R Kulkarni (Astronomy), Swee Lay Thein (Life Science and Medicine), Stuart Orkin (Life Science and Medicine), Peter Sarnak (Mathematical Sciences) The Shaw Prize in Astronomy is awarded to Shrinivas R KulkarniGeorge Ellery Hale Professor of Astronomy and Planetary Science, Division of Physics, Mathematics and Astronomy at the California Institute of Technology, USA  for his ground-breaking discoveries about millisecond pulsars, gamma-ray bursts, supernovae, and other variable or transient astronomical objects. His contributions to time-domain astronomy culminated in the conception, construction and leadership of the Palomar Transient Factory and its successor, the Zwicky Transient Facility, which have revolutionised our understanding of the time-variable optical sky. The Shaw Prize in Life Science and Medicine is awarded in equal shares to Swee Lay TheinSenior Investigator and Chief of the Sickle Cell Branch of National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute at the National Institutes of Health, USA and Stuart OrkinDavid G Nathan Distinguished Professor of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, USA for their discovery of the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying the fetal-to-adult hemoglobin switch, making possible a revolutionary and highly effective genome-editing therapy for sickle cell anemia and b thalassemia, devastating blood diseases that affect millions of people worldwide. The Shaw Prize in Mathematical Sciences is awarded to Peter SarnakGopal Prasad Professor of Mathematics at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton and Eugene Higgins Professor of Mathematics at Princeton University, USA for his development of the arithmetic theory of thin groups and the affine sieve, by bringing together number theory, analysis, combinatorics, dynamics, geometry and spectral theory. Tuesday, 21 May 2024. At today's press conference in Hong Kong, The Shaw Prize Foundation announced the Shaw Laureates for 2024. Information was posted on the website www.shawprize.org at Hong Kong time 15:30 (GMT 07:30). The Shaw Prize consists of three annual prizes: Astronomy, Life Science and Medicine, and Mathematical Sciences, each bearing a monetary award of US$1.2 million. This will be the twenty-first year that the Prize has been awarded and the presentation ceremony is scheduled for Tuesday, 12 November 2024 in Hong Kong.

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A Two-Way Journey Across Twenty Thousand Miles:China Energy Investment Corporation's Guohua Energy Investment Hosted the International Open Day Event of the
A Two-Way Journey Across Twenty Thousand Miles:China Energy Investment Corporation's Guohua Energy Investment Hosted the International Open Day Event of the "Gen Z Energy Tour China-Europe" Shandong Session

WEIHAI, China, May 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- From May 18 to 20, the International Open Day Event of the Gen Z Energy Tour China-Europe Shandong Session hosted by Guohua Energy Investment Co., Ltd., a subsidiary of China Energy Investment Corporation (hereinafter referred to as "China Energy"), took place in Weihai, Shandong Province. A visiting delegation comprising ten youths from six countries entered the Shandong Branch of Guohua Energy Investment to delve into the green and low-carbon development process of Chinese energy enterprises and immerse themselves in the traditional Qilu culture of Shandong. Leaders from the Communist Youth League Shandong Provincial Committee, Weihai Municipal Government, China International Communications Group, and Guohua Energy Investment attended the opening ceremony on May 18th. Throughout the ceremony, representatives from China Energy Guohua Energy Investment Europe Renewable Energy S.A. and Guohua Energy Investment Shandong Branch respectively shared insights into their overseas social responsibility endeavors and Shandong Branch's green development explorations in the province. Additionally, a professor from the Shandong Academy of Chinese Culture delivered an illuminating speech on Qilu culture. Nearly 70 student delegates from Harbin Institute of Technology bore witness to the event. During the event, participants had the opportunity to visit two significant wind power projects in Shandong: China Energy's largest offshore wind farm in Shandong, the Wanghai Wind Farm, and Guohua Energy Investment's inaugural wind power project in Shandong, the Rongcheng Wind Farm. Through immersive, firsthand experiences at these sites, young individuals from both China and other countries solidified their shared commitment to green development. In addition to the site visits, the event included a specialized symposium focusing on Sino-Greek wind power technologies in mountainous regions. This symposium facilitated the exchange of knowledge and expertise, offering valuable Chinese insights to promote collaboration in new energy technology between China and Europe, and advancing global wind power technology. Foreign participants expressed their appreciation for the enthusiastic, pleasant, and professionally conducted exchanges. They noted that these interactions deepened their understanding and forged stronger bonds between youths from China and Europe. Moreover, they emphasized the event's role in fostering mutual learning between the two regions, as well as enhancing their comprehension of the green development practices undertaken by Chinese energy enterprises. Additionally, they highlighted the enriching experience of delving into the profound heritage and unique charm of Chinese culture. The "Gen Z Energy Tour China-Europe" series of activities is designed to offer European "Generation Z" youth the opportunity to personally visit prominent clean energy projects in Greece and China. Through these visits, participants gain hands-on experience and insight into the new technologies, breakthroughs, and achievements of Chinese enterprises, particularly those represented by China Energy Guohua Energy Investment, in the clean energy sector. This initiative has already conducted three international open day events in Alexandria, Greece, Beijing, China, and Weihai, Shandong. These events serve as compelling showcases of the exemplary practices of China's central state-owned enterprises, exemplified by China Energy Guohua Energy Investment, in actively fulfilling social responsibilities in both China and Europe. Furthermore, they underscore the collaborative efforts in jointly advancing the "Belt and Road Initiative". Notably, the initiative has successfully expanded the participation of "Generation Z" youths from Europe to countries along the Belt and Road, thereby amplifying the reach and influence of Chinese culture.

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Microsoft collaborates with Enterprise Singapore, AI Singapore, and the Infocomm Media Development Authority to accelerate AI transformation for SMEs with AI Pinnacle Program
Microsoft collaborates with Enterprise Singapore, AI Singapore, and the Infocomm Media Development Authority to accelerate AI transformation for SMEs with AI Pinnacle Program

Second wave of Microsoft's AI Pinnacle Program to empower SMEs to scale AI adoption and transformation New initiative with Enterprise Singapore and AI Singapore to catalyze Microsoft Copilot adoption among SMEs to bolster productivity New initiative with IMDA to enable all SMEs to build generative AI capabilities SINGAPORE, May 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Microsoft today announced the launch of the second wave of the Microsoft AI Pinnacle Program, with new initiatives aimed at enabling small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to scale adoption of AI-powered solutions that will have transformative impact on their businesses and sectors. Left to right: Mr. Kiren Kumar, Deputy Chief Executive, Infocomm Media Development Authority; Mr. Laurence Liew, Director, AI Innovation, AI Singapore; Ms. Andrea Della Mattea, President, Microsoft ASEAN; Mr. Gan Kim Yong, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry; Ms. Lee Hui Li, Managing Director, Microsoft Singapore; Mr. Soh Leng Wan, Assistant Managing Director (Manufacturing), Enterprise Singapore As part of a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed today, Microsoft, Enterprise Singapore (EnterpriseSG) and AI Singapore (AISG) will work together to help SMEs boost productivity by utilizing Microsoft Copilot – with the goal of empowering more than 1,000 SMEs over the next two years to tap the benefits of AI innovation for their business. Microsoft and the Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) signed a new Memorandum of Intent (MOI) to help SMEs and technology vendors leverage generative AI (GenAI). For digitally mature Singapore enterprises, this collaboration will enable them to strengthen their capabilities in GenAI and to develop and deploy customized GenAI solutions, with more than 200 digitally mature Singapore SMEs to benefit over the next two years as a start. Microsoft and IMDA will also uplift tech providers in enabling their solutions with AI capabilities that would help scale AI adoption amongst SMEs. Both the MOU and MOI were signed with the partners in the presence of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade and Industry, Mr. Gan Kim Yong. Microsoft and LinkedIn's 2024 Work Trend Index revealed that knowledge workers in Singapore are ahead of their global peers when it comes to the use of AI, with close to nine in 10 (88%) in Singapore already using AI at work, compared to 75% globally. While 83% of Singaporean leaders believe their company needs to adopt AI to stay competitive, 68% of leaders worry their organization's leadership lacks a plan and vision to implement it. "Against this backdrop, Microsoft is committed to supporting organizations of all sizes to drive transformation with AI through the AI Pinnacle Program. We are excited to be collaborating with Enterprise Singapore, AI Singapore, and IMDA, to expand the program's focus on enabling SMEs of varying levels of digital maturity to adopt and embrace AI technology to achieve productivity gains and tangible business impact," said Ms. Lee Hui Li, Managing Director, Microsoft Singapore. "In doing so, we want to create an ecosystem where leaders are empowered to develop an AI strategy and roadmap for their organization, and employees are equipped with the skills, tools, and technology to thrive in the era of AI."   Accelerating AI transformation for SMEs with EnterpriseSG and AISG Jointly administered by Microsoft, EnterpriseSG and AISG, the Microsoft Copilot for SMEs program will support SMEs to deepen their AI capabilities by accelerating the adoption of Microsoft Copilot across key business functions such as HR, finance, sales, and marketing. As an everyday AI companion for work, Microsoft Copilot helps to streamline processes, enhances productivity, and enables employees to focus on higher-value tasks – ultimately driving greater efficiency and better business outcomes for SMEs, which are often faced with limited IT and corporate resources. Through the program, EnterpriseSG will defray 50% of the Microsoft Copilot license costs for eligible businesses for a 12-month usage period to support their adoption of the solution. Beyond catalyzing the adoption of this AI-powered productivity tool, the program will also leverage Microsoft's partner ecosystem to provide additional training support and resources for SMEs to implement Copilot across different business processes effectively. In addition, Microsoft and EnterpriseSG will work with AISG to support capability building and educate SMEs on responsible AI use beyond Microsoft Copilot. More information can be found at: https://go.gov.sg/microsoft-copilot   "AI technologies can help many resource-strapped SMEs to do more with less. This is why Enterprise Singapore continues to expand our range of resources, including the rollout of the latest Microsoft Copilot for SMEs program, to help more local firms acquire new AI capabilities to enhance productivity and boost business outcomes. We will continue partnering with partners like Microsoft, to spur AI adoption and development among SMEs so that they can uplift competitiveness and better scale up their businesses," said Mr. Soh Leng Wan, Assistant Managing Director (Manufacturing), Enterprise Singapore.   Empowering both enterprises and tech providers leverage generative AI Microsoft's collaboration with IMDA will uplift the AI capabilities of digitally mature local enterprises in Singapore. As part of IMDA's GenAI x Digital Leaders initiative, Microsoft will conduct technology discovery workshops and provide tech advisory that will cater to specific business needs of enterprises. IMDA will provide funding support to eligible enterprises to develop and deploy their GenAI solutions. Companies can also access Microsoft's network of tech partners and tools such as Azure OpenAI and Copilot, as well as get tech advice during the project implementation phase. To accelerate the adoption of AI among local SMEs, Microsoft and IMDA will support the tech vendors under IMDA's SMEs Go Digital programme to integrate their solutions with AI capabilities. This will enable SMEs access to more AI solutions to boost productivity across business functions, foster product and service innovation, and deliver superior customer experiences. "Aligned with Singapore's National AI Strategy 2.0, IMDA is excited to continue working with technology giants such as Microsoft to enable our local enterprises and ICT sector level up with AI. This partnership with Microsoft will look to enhance the pre-approved solutions under the SMEs Go Digital programme with GenAI to help scale the adoption of GenAI among SMEs. For our more digitally mature Singapore enterprises, this partnership will help them to navigate the complexities of GenAI and deepen their in-house digital capabilities, so as to develop new and exciting products and services, and be more competitive in the global market," said Mr Leong Der Yao, Assistant Chief Executive, Sectoral Transformation Group, IMDA. The latest announcement builds on MOUs that Microsoft recently signed with SkillsFuture Singapore and NTUC LearningHub to equip SMEs with the skills and expertise needed to harness AI solutions, enabling them to transform and seize new opportunities. Microsoft's collaboration with SkillsFuture Singapore will benefit 2,000 SMEs over three years, while the collaboration with NTUC LearningHub will train up to 100,000 of its members in AI skills to enhance their AI literacy. In addition, Microsoft has partnered IMDA to equip tech professionals with AI skills through the Information & Communications (I&C) Jobs Transformation Map (JTM) Training Partners to build the tech workforce's capabilities to develop and deploy AI-enabled digital solutions. Under the collaboration, IMDA's Training Partner NTUC LearningHub offers Microsoft certification courses in Azure AI. These courses help trainees master the fundamentals of AI technology, build awareness of common AI workloads, and identify relevant Azure services to support them. As of December 2023, the JTM Training Partners collectively offer around 200 AI-related courses and have trained about 1,600 individuals to be confident AI users. About Microsoft Microsoft (Nasdaq "MSFT" @microsoft) creates platforms and tools powered by AI to deliver innovative solutions that meet the evolving needs of our customers. The technology company is committed to making AI available broadly and doing so responsibly, with a mission to empower every person and every organization on the planet to achieve more.

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UTM SECURES TOP POSITION IN MALAYSIA FOR PREMIUM INCOME AND HIGHLY SKILLED GRADUATE EMPLOYABILITY RATE
UTM SECURES TOP POSITION IN MALAYSIA FOR PREMIUM INCOME AND HIGHLY SKILLED GRADUATE EMPLOYABILITY RATE

JOHOR BAHRU, Malaysia, May 21, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) has achieved a significant milestone in its commitment to producing highly competent and marketable graduates. In 2023, UTM's overall graduate employability rate (GE) reached an unprecedented 100 percent, the highest at the national level, a testament to our dedication and excellence. UTM graduates during the university’s 67th Convocation Ceremony According to data announced by the Ministry of Higher Education (MOHE) dated 30 April 2024, this achievement is based on the Graduate Tracking Report carried out by  MOHE on all local graduates from public universities every year. UTM has also consistently ranked first among public universities in Malaysia for the category of Premium-Earning Graduates (First Degree), with 18.5 percent receiving a premium income of over MYR 4,000 per month. Notably, a remarkable 85.4 percent of UTM graduates have been assessed to possess a High Skill Level, marking the highest percentage in Malaysia. UTM's success in enhancing the marketability of its graduates is directly attributed to our proactive and strategic approach outlined in the UTM enVision 2025 Strategic Plan. This plan, supported by high-quality teaching and learning initiatives, has significantly increased the success of our graduates. The strategic and collaborative cooperation between the university and various sectors, including the private and public sectors, alumni, and local and foreign institutions, has also played a pivotal role in this achievement. Moving forward, UTM is committed to empowering its graduates. Our goal is to cultivate individuals with strong competency values, who not only fulfil the demands of the job market but also prioritize the development of ethical values, manners, and identity, and have the potential to create new job opportunities. For the record, the Ministry of Higher Education measures graduate employability rates by considering graduates who are employed, pursuing further studies, enhancing their skills, or awaiting job placement within six months of graduation. About Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM): Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) is a leading public research university in Malaysia, dedicated to advancing knowledge and nurturing future leaders. UTM is committed to excellence in education, research, and innovation, making a significant impact on society and industry. As a global institution, UTM is known for its cutting-edge research and its role in developing innovative solutions to global challenges.

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Critical need for doctors to counsel couples on potential genetic burden in offspring of older dads
Critical need for doctors to counsel couples on potential genetic burden in offspring of older dads

MANILA, Philippines, May 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- An increasing trend of older fatherhood is potentially creating a global genetic disaster with devastating health consequences for offspring. A major conference of human reproductive health in the Philippines will hear of mounting evidence that paternal ageing is associated with a profound increase in sperm DNA damage that can burden offspring with mutational impacts including schizophrenia, autism and childhood cancers. Speaking at the 2024 Congress of the Asia Pacific Initiative on Reproduction (ASPIRE) in Manila today, Indian fertility specialist, Dr Ameet Patki, said that sperm DNA damage in older men also contributes to an increased risk of pregnancy loss and a decrease in live births. "It is imperative that clinicians advise couples where the man is aged 40 or more that there is an increased risk of adverse health outcomes in offspring, and potentially on future generations," Dr Patki said. "Over the past 50 years there has been a significant increase in the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders in children and an eight-fold increase in childhood cancers. It is reasonable to assume that advanced paternal age is a contributor to this disturbing global trend. "The average age of fathers is increasing, as it is among mothers as couples delay parenthood because of economic, social and lifestyle issues, and sperm counts in men in many countries are declining at an accelerated pace. "We know that sperm count, volume and motility decrease with age, but the focus should also be on genomic defects in sperm." Dr Patki, who is President of the Indian Society for Assisted Reproduction (ISAR), said there had been major international studies on the impacts of maternal ageing and reproductive health, but research and clinical trials on paternal ageing were scant by comparison. "In many societies, infertility is perceived as a female issue and many men are unwilling to accept that they may be a contributor to adverse reproductive outcomes," he said. "However, the biological clock also ticks for men particularly in terms of sperm DNA fragmentation that occurs exponentially after the age of 40. "Paternal ageing is associated with a profound increase in sperm DNA damage, the appearance of multiple epigenetic changes in the germ line, and an elevated mutational load in the offspring. "The net result of such changes is an increase in the disease burden carried by the male and female progeny of ageing men including autism, attention deficit disorder and schizophrenia. "The impacts of male biological time keeping are entirely different than maternal ageing. "Genetic counselling should be considered for couples with advanced paternal ageing along with testing for sperm DNA fragmentation, particularly in cases of recurrent pregnancy loss." Dr Patki said treatment with antioxidants, such as vitamins E and C and CQ10, could improve sperm DNA integrity and enhance semen parameters in men above the age of 40. "Carefully designed clinical trials are now needed if we are to realise the therapeutic potential of this approach," he explained. Meanwhile, a major focus of the Fertility Counts initiative being advanced by ASPIRE at the Manila Congress is that raising a family at a younger age is medically desirable, while understanding and addressing social and economic barriers to couples seeking parenthood in their prime reproductive years. The ASPIRE Congress is being held at the Philippine International Convention Centre in Manila. For further information, go to the Congress website www.aspire2024.com   

The 10th World Water Forum Officially Begins, the President of the World Water Council Calls on Everyone to Become
The 10th World Water Forum Officially Begins, the President of the World Water Council Calls on Everyone to Become "Water Warriors"

BALI, Indonesia, May 25, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Indonesian President Joko Widodo officially opened the 10th World Water Forum on Monday (5/20/2024) at the Bali Nusa Dua Convention Center (BNDCC). In his speech, Jokowi introduced the Balinese Subak irrigation system, which was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 2012. President Joko Widodo (front, left) posed for a photo with President of World Water Council Loïc Fauchon (front, right) and several committee of the World Water Council for the 10th World Water Forum 2024 in Nusa Dua, Bali, on Monday, (20/5/2024) At the opening ceremony, Loïc Fauchon, the President of the World Water Council, expressed gratitude to Indonesia for hosting the World Water Forum in Bali, highlighting Indonesia as the World Capital of Water. He also emphasized the urgent need for sustainable water management, technological innovation, and global cooperation. Fauchon called for action to ensure water security, promote water rights, and involve younger generations in the fight for water preservation and peace. Following the opening ceremony, President Jokowi chaired the High-Level Meeting where he stated that all countries should use this as a momentum to reinvigorate real action and collective commitment to address water challenges by sharing knowledge, promoting innovative solutions and implementing integrated water resources management. On the same day, the political sessions began with the Parliamentary Meeting which was officially opened by the Chairperson of the Indonesian House of Representatives Puan Maharani. She stated that the Parliament will support the agenda to achieve water security through diplomacy.  On this occasion, the Bali Youth Plan has been hosting a series of side events, including the World Youth Parliament for Water Sessions and World Water Council Youth Delegates Session. The Forum's Fair and Expo also launched with a total of 160 participants from 17 countries. The day concluded with Leaders Visit to Ngurah Rai Forest Park, where President Jokowi highlighted the collective responsibility to conserve and protect the mangrove ecosystem.  Minister of Public Works and Housing Basuki Hadimuljono said, 10 Heads of state including from Indonesia, Timor Leste, Fiji, Tajikistan, Sri Lanka, Hungary, and Morocco, as well as Deputy Prime Ministers, from Malaysia, Papua New Guinea, Slovakia, and three special envoys of the presidents of the Netherlands, France, and the United Arab Emirates are present and participate in the series of events.    

Lights On! Harbour City transforms for Vivid Sydney 2024
Lights On! Harbour City transforms for Vivid Sydney 2024

Download high-res images & broadcast-quality vision of Vivid Sydney 2024 HERE Tickets available from vividsydney.com SYDNEY, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- Vivid Sydney 2024 has kicked off its 14th year with a spectacular opening night, as the festival transforms Sydney's glittering harbour, iconic landmarks and cityscape with a showcase of creativity and innovation for the next 23 nights.     The Southern Hemisphere's leading multi-artform festival will run from Friday 24 May to Saturday 15 June, featuring the world's most innovative artists, culinary talent, contemporary musicians and thought leaders as part of its 2024 program under the theme of Humanity. The 'Lights On' moment wowed onlookers with over 30 light installations and 3D projections across the famed 8km Vivid Sydney Light Walk, highlighted by the Sydney Opera House featuring the breathtaking new digital artwork, Lighting of the Sails: Echo (2024). Created by multidisciplinary Australian artist and 2023 Archibald Prize Winner Julia Gutman, with creative technologists Pleasant Company, the projection on the Sydney Opera House Sails digitises centuries-old fabric making techniques into an animated, modern epic. NSW Premier Chris Minns said: "The bright lights of Vivid Sydney are officially on. "For the next 3 weeks Sydney will showcase the magical lights, art and fun of Vivid Sydney. There is something for the whole family, so I encourage everyone to come along and make the most of Vivid Sydney this year." Minister for the Arts, Minister for Music and the Night-time Economy, and Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham said: "Since 2009, Vivid Sydney has been a global platform showcasing our vibrant culture, bustling nightlife and creative talents. "Going from strength to strength in its 14th year, Vivid Sydney shows the world our colourful creative side. Vivid Sydney shows the world we have big dreams. "With the majority of this year's festival being free, we're looking forward to welcoming visitors back again in the millions. "Tonight, we begin 23 days of Light, 23 days of Music, Ideas and Food. 23 days of shared experiences. For the next 23 days, Sydney will be beautiful by day, Vivid Sydney by night." Vivid Sydney Festival Director Gill Minervini said: "Vivid Sydney is the original festival of light, art and culture, and we're proud to be celebrating its 14th year with an incredible line-up of light, music, ideas and food under 2024's theme of Humanity. "It is such a privilege and honour to direct this year's program and we're so excited to bring festival-goers a calibre of Australian and international talent that not only maintains the standard we've set in previous years but takes the program to new heights. Vivid Sydney 2024 is a must-see, and we can't wait to welcome all Australians and global visitors alike for the next 23 nights!" Staged across the Sydney CBD, Vivid Sydney festival locations and venues include Circular Quay, the Sydney Opera House, The Rocks, State Library of New South Wales, Walsh Bay Arts Precinct, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, University of Technology Sydney, The Goods Line, Wynyard Tunnels, Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, Carriageworks, and more.  For more information and tickets visit vividsydney.com. VIVID SYDNEY HIGHLIGHTS VIVID LIGHT As the sun goes down each evening during Vivid Sydney, the city will transform with light installations, 3D projection artworks and ticketed events for visitors to immerse themselves in a new world of colour and light across the 8km Vivid Sydney Light Walk. Vivid Sydney has again partnered with Cinewav, enabling visitors to listen to the soundtracks to select projection artworks wherever they are on the Vivid Sydney Light Walk From almost anywhere in the city, visitors will witness a 40km stretch of rainbow lasers emanating from the Sydney Tower, a universal symbol of hope by US artist Yvette Mattern titled Global Rainbow One of Australia's most-beloved artists, Reg Mombassa will reimagine the classic Aussie road trip on Customs House for Gumscape with Road and Creatures Celebrated Chinese Australian artist Guan Wei's signature iconography will transform the Museum of Contemporary Art for Sea, Sand and Stars Nest, a collaboration between Leila Jeffreys and Melvin J. Montalban, features a large-scale circular projection at the Stargazer Lawn in Barangaroo, spotlighting the ritualistic mating dance of the brolga and humanity's connection with nature Step up to the Omnivisu view finder in Tumbalong Park, and let your eyes become the literal windows to our city's soul Horizon from Spanish artists Playmodes is a hypnotic, full-body experience complete with trance-like sounds and strobing lights at Harbour Park, Barangaroo Towering over 15 metres tall, PORTAL from Lucid Creates frames Barangaroo Headland with a glowing display of light and atmospheric sounds The Vivid Sydney 2024 drone show Love is in the Air will feature more than 700 drones over three separate nights for another fan-favourite Vivid Sydney spectacle over the harbour Dark Spectrum: A New Journey returns to the Wynyard Tunnels in new and fantastic ways to take us on a journey of light and sound The internationally acclaimed multi-sensory experience of light, colour and sound, Lightscape, returns to The Royal Botanic Garden Sydney VIVID MUSIC Vivid Music will ignite the city with a curated program of live performances, concerts and DJ sets across diverse venues, with something for the whole family, at any age. Exclusive to Vivid Sydney, Tekno Train by Paul Mac is a one-of-a-kind event that will transform a Sydney Trains ride into a moving, sensory sound and light experience The reimagined 100-year-old substation Machine Hall will be open to the public for the very first time during Vivid Sydney 2024, pulsating with performances from Deerhoof, Jen Cloher, CLUB4A and No Fixed Address  On Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights of the festival, Tumbalong Park in Darling Harbour will become the Vivid Sydney go-to for free and contemporary music right in the heart of the Light Walk for Tumbalong Nights. The 12-night line-up features artists such as Christine Anu, Sneaky Sound System, Forest Claudette, Teenage Jones, , tiffi, Budjerah, grentperez, and more, plus DJs and kids programming on Saturday nights all free of charge Comedy darling Rhys Nicholson and ARIA award winning musician Georgia Mooney will transform Mary's Underground into an intimate cabaret lounge for the Vivid Sydney Supper Club featuring live performances and appearances from MO'JU, Don't Thank Me Spank Me, Montaigne, Brendan Maclean, Mark Humphries and more each Friday and Saturday from 9pm to 1am Diverse and multi-sensory experiences at Carriageworks, with an electrifying line-up including Electric Fields, Yves Tumor, Yasiin Bey and many more. The Vivid LIVE at Sydney Opera House line-up features more than 40 Australian and international artists. Arca, Air, Underworld, Fever Ray, Devonte Hynes, Snoh Alegra, Sky Ferreira, Thelma Plum and many more will take to the stages of the world-famous building in a program curated by Sydney Opera House's Head of Contemporary Music Ben Marshall VIVID IDEAS The Vivid Ideas program sparks curiosity with new ways to experience ideas through the exploration of humanity, community, authenticity, respect, love and lessons learnt from the natural world – with theatre, installations and engaging discussions just the beginning. From the football team that united Australia in 2023, Tony Gustavsson, head coach of the CommBank Matildas, and Mackenzie Arnold, celebrated CommBank Matildas goalkeeper and captain of West Ham United, will be hosted in an insightful conversation – Champions of Change - facilitated by Matildas alumni and now journalist Grace Gill at Sydney Town Hall Golden Globe® and Emmy Award® winning actress and comedian Amy Poehler will step inside the Sydney Opera House for a special and unmissable In Conversation Ideas event and a special first look at Disney and Pixar's Inside Out 2 After The Fact will offer opportunities to engage in free weeknight discussions on current affairs with writers, journalists, ex-politicians, social commentators, artists and academics – including Annabel Crabb, Rhoda Roberts AO, Kim Williams AM, Lucy Turnbull AO, Charles Firth and more Unique experiences including A THOUSAND WAYS: An Encounter, Window Dressing and Shifting Perspectives will offer immersive moments to connect with both strangers and ourselves The Golden Age of Humanity will showcase nine selected films over nine starry nights at Surry Hills' beloved Golden Age Cinema - curated by nine great Australians including Amar Singh, Saxon Mullins, Kylie Kwong AM, Kate McClymont AM, Craig Foster AM and more VIVID FOOD Vivid Chef Series returns to hatted restaurants Fred's, AALIA, The Porter House, Firedoor and The Charles Brasserie & Bar as they host unmissable foodie collaborations with Michelin-starred chefs including Max Coen, Ivan Brehm, Selassie Atadika, Niklas Ekstedt and Sally Abé Vivid Fire Kitchen is also back in 2024 with delectable offerings at its new location on The Goods Line, bringing together the world's hottest culinary concepts, curated drinks and cocktails from Archie Rose and Starward, and entertainment with demonstrations from local and international pitmasters including California-favourite Shalamar Lane, Christine Manfield, Mindy Woods, Lennox Hastie, Jess Pryles, and more Making its debut at Vivid Sydney 2024, the Messina Milk Bar will be an illuminated full-scale pop-up with a menu of gelato-infused chocolate bars, dixie cups, tailor-made milkshakes and spiders from the cult-gelato innovators at Messina A Culinary Canvas by Danielle Alvarez is set to showcase women in Australian gastronomy at the incredible Yallamundi Rooms at the Sydney Opera House Plates with Purpose will offer a taste of Ukraine at Kyiv Social, courtesy of head chef, Borys Chernyk who brings over 30 years of experience in Ukrainian fine dining Visitors can explore over 20 top chefs and restaurateurs at the VividPlace Food Trail or indulge in a bespoke bar snack and cocktail experience at Aurorae at Bennelong Bar, offering an incredible view of the lights across Sydney Harbour VIVID SYDNEY PARTNERS Vivid Sydney thanks its Partners for their support of Vivid Sydney 2024. Kia returns as major partner for a third year, presenting two visually immersive activations on the Vivid Sydney Light Walk – EV9 "Kia Kinetic" at Circular Quay and EV5 "Kia Kaleidoscope" at Darling Harbour. Australian Traffic Network (ATN) will partner with Vivid Sydney to deliver the Love is in the Air drone shows, with three shows on 8, 9 and 15 June planned to wow audiences during the festival. Sony Music Entertainment Australia returns for a second year and presents two ticketed immersive light events, Dark Spectrum: A New Journey, at the Wynyard Tunnels with Mandylights and Culture Creative, and Lightscape at the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, in collaboration with Culture Creative. Samsung also comes onboard as a Major Partner of Vivid Sydney 2024, presenting Chorus of Light, an immersive activation on the Vivid Sydney Light Walk, designed to tap into our desire for connection through the enablement of barrier-free communication, inspired by Samsung Galaxy AI technology.  Airbnb is the inaugural Vivid Sydney Community Partner, supporting the Vivid Sydney Volunteer Program. Official partner Sennheiser presents the Sennheiser Mirrorbox, an audio experience merging AI analysis, sound design and visual elements to explore the relationship between sound and human identity. Estee Lauder will partner with Vivid Sydney as an Official Partner, activating during the festival with Beauty Sleep, integrating elements of beauty and science. Supporting Partners include City of Sydney and Nova 96.9. Supplier partners include Cinewav, Event Engineering, Mandylights, Technical Direction Company, Transdev and Kennards Hire. Returning for the second year, the Local Business Program Partner is Experience Oz Australia. Vivid Sydney program partners include Carriageworks, Disney, Museum of Contemporary Art and Sydney Opera House. The Vivid Sydney 2024 Charity Partner is Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF), which translates to Doctors Without Borders.  Vivid Sydney locations include Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, The Rocks, Barangaroo House, Golden Age Cinema, Machine Hall, University of Technology Sydney, State Library of New South Wales, North Sydney Council and Walsh Bay Arts Precinct. For more information and to keep updated about the program, go to vividsydney.com. NOTES TO EDITORS: Visit the Vivid Sydney News Room to download the full 2024 Vivid Sydney Lights On content package including a VNR with grabs from Minister for Jobs and Tourism John Graham, Vivid Sydney Festival Director Gill Minervini and Vivid Sydney artists, as well as high-res imagery and broadcast-quality b-roll video footage: www.vividsydney.com/news-room. ABOUT VIVID SYDNEY Vivid Sydney, the Southern Hemisphere's leading multi-artform festival, transforms Sydney into a vibrant hub of creativity, innovation and community connection. Over 23 nights, light installations, music, ideas and food inspire global audiences and drive cultural exchange. The 2024 theme, 'Humanity,' sparks reflection and engagement, attracting visitors and fuelling economic growth. Proudly owned by Destination NSW, Vivid Sydney showcases NSW's cultural vibrancy and positions it as a global leader in artistic innovation. ABOUT DESTINATION NSW  Destination NSW is the champion and voice for the visitor economy within the NSW Government. Spearheading a whole-of-government approach to visitor economy growth, Destination NSW influences and shapes the visitor economy through strategic research, policy and thought leadership, stakeholder engagement and consultation, commercial partnerships and investment in visitor experiences, business support, marketing and events. Destination NSW is also the major investor in Business Events Sydney (BESydney) for the purpose of securing more international and domestic conventions, incentive travel reward programs, corporate events and exhibitions.

URBAN SPORTS AND STREET ARTS MEET IN SINGAPORE AS PART OF A GLOBAL WARM-UP TO THE PARIS 2024 OLYMPIC GAMES
URBAN SPORTS AND STREET ARTS MEET IN SINGAPORE AS PART OF A GLOBAL WARM-UP TO THE PARIS 2024 OLYMPIC GAMES

The unique event, which is among the first global events created to build excitement for the upcoming Olympic Games, sees French and Singaporeans athletes and artists coming together to revitalise the iconic skate park in Singapore SINGAPORE, May 24, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- In the lead up to the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, the Embassy of France in Singapore is organising a special two-day celebration of sports and arts aptly titled Artletics - making it among the first celebratory events organised around the world to drum up excitement for the global sports meet. In collaboration with local partner Art Outreach and supported by the Singapore Tourism Board, the event happening on 25 and 26 May sees urban sports athletes and urban artists from both countries converging at the 18-year-old Somerset Skate Park to immerse Singaporeans in a joint showcase of their talents. The event's focus on urban sports gives a nod to the inclusion of the category into the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games, which includes sports like BMX, skateboarding and breaking. It also runs parallel to the plans to transform the Place de la Concorde in Paris into an urban sports space. The unique collaboration also serves as a bridge between France and Singapore, deepening cultural ties through a shared passion for artistic expression and athleticism. Ambassador of France to Singapore Her Excellency Minh-di Tang said, 'Artletics embodies the spirit of street culture and celebrates artists and athletes striving for excellence, creativity and team spirit in the city where they leave lasting legacies and drive positive change in society. These core values pay homage to what the Olympic Games stand for, which France is hosting for the third time this year. Through Artletics, we want to showcase the best of French and Singaporean artistry, athleticism and sportsmanship, strengthening the cross-cultural partnerships our countries have enjoyed for many years." The transformed Somerset Skate Park in Singapore will host exhilarating showcases by urban sports athletes and practitioners from Singapore and France, including Max Berguin, the champion of the France Street Skateboard 2023 (Image courtesy of Embassy of France in Singapore) Somerset Skate Park transformed into a vibrant urban playground Artletics caps off a month-long line up of programmes under the vOilah! France Singapore Festival - an annual cultural festival organised by the Embassy of France in Singapore to demonstrate French creativity and innovation through the power of cross-cultural collaborations. In the spirit of enabling cultural exchanges, the Somerset Skate Park in the heart of Orchard Road is transformed into a dynamic space as orchestrated by urban artists from Singapore and France. Three visual artists from Singapore - Zero, Spaz, and Simpleproblembeings - worked alongside French muralist Elsa Martino and graffiti artist Kekli to enliven the space by decorating the walls and the ramps of the skate park with vibrant designs. Supported by Singapore's urban art collective RSCLS, these artists also will lead the public in engaging art jam sessions to partake in a collaboration of community artwork. First to utilise the redecorated space are French skateboarding athlete Max Berguin, Champion of the France Street Skateboard 2023 and Singaporean urban sport communities in the field of skateboarding, breaking, BMX, bike trials, parkour and yo-yo who will be displaying their talents to spectators. The event also features adrenaline-inducing urban sports showcases, opportunities for the public to take part in workshops conducted by local urban sports groups, as well as music sets in the evening by Singaporean DJs Kiat and Intriguant. "Artletics is a vibrant celebration of the creative spirit that bridges French and Singaporean cultures through youth, urban sports and art," said Mae Anderson, Chairman of Art Outreach. "We are thrilled to see French and Singaporean artists and skateboarders come together, transforming Somerset Skate Park into a collaborative canvas. We hope this event serves as a great opportunity for everyone to experience the power of art, athletics, while fostering a sense of belonging, inclusion and community spirit." Singapore's Somerset Skate Park will be transformed with artworks by Singaporean and French artists as part of Artletics - one of the first celebratory events globally to create excitement for the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games (Image courtesy of Embassy of France in Singapore) More details of the festival and the programme can be found at www.voilah.sg/artletics. -END- About vOilah! 2024 vOilah! 2024 returns from 25 April to 26 May 2024. Presented by the Embassy of France in Singapore, this year's edition will focus on celebrating the dreams and passions of artists and athletes, bringing experiences that make life more vibrant through strong connections between the French and Singaporean communities. This year, visitors can look forward to 19 programmes covering audiovisual arts, performing arts, visual arts, lifestyle, sports, education, science, music. With the support of more than 50 partners, vOilah! 2024 is a culmination of vibrant and dynamic experiences that will strengthen an appreciation of arts, culture and innovative collaborations between our countries. For more information, visit www.voilah.sg/artletics/ About Art Outreach Art Outreach, established in 2003, passionately promotes art appreciation and strengthens the local art ecosystem. We also empower practitioners through professional development support and an incubatory art space. Our year-round programmes, tailored to diverse audiences, include educational talks, art tours, exhibitions, and workshops, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of art and artists within the community. By supporting a wide range of artists and art shows, we actively promote plurality and advocacy within the arts, championing inclusivity and celebrating a rich tapestry of artistic expression. Art Outreach has been an IPC charity since inception, and has been a multiple-year recipient of the Commissioner of Charities governance award. We are led by a deeply committed board and nurture a dynamic and cohesive team culture. For more information, please visit www.artoutreachsingapore.org/