APAC News
Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce Champions International Expansion of Thai Trade Through Live Commerce
Thailand's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, announced the launch of Thailand Live Commerce 2024 at a press conference in Bangkok. Scheduled from May 13-17 on TikTok, the event aims to promote Thai products and foster entrepreneurship, targeting ASEAN and future Chinese markets. Influencers such as Songkran Techanarong and Mind Naphatsorn Surawann will participate, showcasing over 300 products. The initiative seeks to adapt to global market changes and expand Thailand's online economic presence, with a focus on integrating Thai cultural goods into the global market. BANGKOK — Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Commerce, Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai announced the launch of Thailand Live Commerce 2024 at a press conference at the Ministry of Commerce on May 8. The initiative, in collaboration with Thailand Post, a leading Thai logistics provider, the Thai Influencer Trade Association, XMCN, a prominent TikTok influencer agency, and influencers from Idol Factory and 945 Holdings, is set to take place May 13-17 on the TikTok. The event aims to promote Thai products and foster entrepreneurship, with a focus on expanding into ASEAN and global markets in the future. Notable participants include influencers Songkarn Taechanarong, Mind Napasasi Surawan, and Big Thitiwut Waroon, a popular TikTok with 2.4 millions followers, who will help showcase over 300 Thai products ranging from beauty and wellness items to household goods. Phumtham emphasized the need for Thailand's commerce sector to adapt to rapid global market changes and maximize online economic opportunities. The event is designed to support small-scale operators in reaching global markets by integrating Thai cultural and intellectual goods. Songkran Techanarong highlighted the opportunities presented by online platforms, noting that anyone with a smartphone and dedication can engage in commerce. Mind Naphatsorn Surawann expressed her desire to increase the visibility of Thai products globally and expand business opportunities abroad. Dr. Danan Supatrapan, managing director of Thai Post, discussed the evolving content landscape and consumer behavior, underlining the importance of logistical adaptations and expanded service points to enhance user experience and accessibility worldwide. The Thailand Live Commerce 2024 will offer a platform for entrepreneurs to live-stream and sell a variety of products, further details can be found on the Ministry of Commerce's official page and through the Department of International Trade Promotion.
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- May 15, 2024Business
Axiata Group and Sinar Mas sign non-binding Memorandum of Understanding to mutually explore proposed merger of XL Axiata and Smartfren in Indonesia
Axiata Group Berhad (“ Axiata ” or “ the Group ”) and (a) PT Wahana Inti Nusantara (“ WIN ”); (b) PT Global Nusa Data (“ GND ”); and (c) PT Bali Media Telekomunikasi (“ BMT ”) ((a) to (c) collectively referred to as “ Sinar Mas ”) (Axiata and Sinar Mas collectively referred to as the “ Parties ” and each a “ Party ”) today announced that they have entered into a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (“ MOU ”) to mutually explore a proposed merger of XL Axiata and Smartfren (“ Proposed Transaction ”) to create a new entity (“ MergeCo ”). The Proposed Transaction is at an early stage of evaluation with both Axiata and Sinar Mas intending to remain as joint controlling shareholders of MergeCo. There is no certainty that the ongoing discussions between the Parties will result in the entry into any binding agreement nor the completion of the Proposed Transaction. Validation of merger rationale and value creation to shareholders, due diligence, preparation of a joint business plan and agreement on key terms will be the principal activities carried out during the exploratory phase governed by the non-binding MOU. Any key development in relation to this MOU will be announced as required. In the event a binding agreement is to be entered into at a future point in time, the associated transaction will be subject to among others, regulatory and corporate approvals. With the intent to create a stronger telecommunications service provider in Indonesia, the proposed merger of XL Axiata and Smartfren is expected to bring together the combined scale, competencies, finances and deep telecommunication expertise of Axiata and the local scale and market knowledge of Sinar Mas to generate significant value. Both principals are expected to wield an equitable influence over the strategic direction and operational decisions of MergeCo, bolstered by their respective strengths. Axiata believes that MergeCo will have the strategic agility, competence and scale to meet increasing expectations and demand from consumers, businesses and the Indonesian public sector. MergeCo is expected to deliver superior customer experience in the telecommunications sector and create additional shareholder value including through synergies from the combined operations of XL Axiata and Smartfren. Axiata is committed to remaining a leading player in Indonesia's digital and technology landscape, rooted in its long-term vision of supporting the country's digital future. Indonesia is an important market and key to its strategic initiatives. XL Axiata is Axiata’s largest asset and from a portfolio standpoint, Indonesia is the highest value creator, where it runs five main businesses - XL Axiata, Link Net, EDOTCO, Boost and ADA. -END- About Axiata In pursuit of its vision to be The Next Generation Digital Champion, Axiata is a diversified telecommunications and digital conglomerate operating Digital Telcos, Digital Businesses and Infrastructure businesses across a footprint spanning ASEAN and South Asia. The Group has controlling stakes in market-leading mobile and fixed operators in the region including 'XL Axiata’ and ‘Link Net' in Indonesia, 'Dialog' in Sri Lanka, 'Robi' in Bangladesh, and 'Smart' in Cambodia while 'CelcomDigi' in Malaysia is a Key Associate Company. Axiata’s regional digital business verticals comprise ‘Boost’ a fintech company, and ‘ADA’, a digital analytics and AI company. 'EDOTCO' is among the top 10 independent TowerCos globally, operating in nine countries to deliver telecommunications infrastructure services. As a committed and long-term investor, the Group actively supports and drives young talent development; community outreach; as well as climate change initiatives. Axiata's broader goal of Advancing Asia aims to piece together the best in the region in terms of innovation, connectivity and talent to drive digital inclusion and sustainable progress across our markets. Find out more at www.axiata.com Issued By: Corporate Communications Axiata Group Berhad Axiata Corporate Headquarters, Axiata Tower, 9 Jalan Stesen Sentral 5, Kuala Lumpur Sentral 50470 Kuala Lumpur For further information on Axiata visit www.axiata.com For media enquiries, please contact: Sujartha Kumar Corporate Communications Tel: +6011.10.000.177 Email: sujartha@axiata.com
- May 14, 2024Business
AWC Announces Record-High Growth in Q1/2024, Expanding Quality Asset Portfolio to Meet Growing Demand in Tourism Sector, with the Hospitality EBITDA Increasing by 83% Compared to Pre-COVID Period
Mrs. Wallapa Traisorat, Chief Executive Officer and President, Asset World Corp Public Company Limited or AWC , today announced record-breaking operating results for Q1/2024 with significant growth from the strategy to expand the portfolio of quality assets, especially new operating assets in the Hospitality Business Unit that records the highest growth compared to 2019. HOTEL EBITDA (excluding Fair Value) peaked at THB 1,401 million, an 83% growth compared to the same period of 2019, surpassing pre-COVID levels, and 43% growth quarter-on-quarter. The Hospitality Business Unit continues to thrive, generating an Average Daily Rate (ADR) of THB 6,298 and Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) of THB 4,711. Moreover, advance bookings grew to 753,841 nights, the highest level since 2019. Net profit for the quarter was THB 1,604 million, representing an 18.1% increase quarter-on-quarter while total revenue was THB 5,440 million, a 10.3% increase quarter-on-quarter. Business Unit EBITDA (BU EBITDA) climbed to THB 2,020 million, a 38% growth compared to the same period of 2019. AWC continued to implement its GROWTH-LED Strategy, generating total asset value growth of over 80% compared to pre-COVID levels. The company also emphasizes on developing Retail Destination and implementing the ‘Co-Living Collective: Empower Future’ experience for Commercial Business Unit, as well as the transition of its assets from Ramp Up stage to Business As Usual (BAU) stage through global partnerships which contribute to increasing access to customer base from 400 million to 600 million people worldwide. Meanwhile, freehold asset is valued at 94%, driving strong cash flow growth to deliver sustainable value to shareholders and stakeholders alike. In Q1/2024, AWC’s fixed assets totaled THB 149,550 million in value. Operating assets accounted for THB 109,526 million of the total amount. New High Quarterly Performance In Q1/2024, the Hospitality Business Unit delivered an impressive performance with the revenue proportion growing to 61%. The outstanding operating results were driven by the expanding Thai tourism sector, which attracted more high-to-luxury tourists, a key target group for AWC. These tourists have supported the growth of all AWC’s hotels especially luxury resorts, Bangkok-based hotels, and other properties outside the capital, contributing to the highest RevPAR and ADR numbers. The occupancy rate in Q1/2024 was 74.8% while HOTEL EBITDA MARGIN stood at 42.1%, up by 7.5% from the previous quarter and higher than the 2019 rate. Thanks to impressive and efficient cost management, the flow-through of the Hospitality Business Unit’s EBITDA was 60% year-on-year. On the Revenue Generation Index (RGI), many of AWC’s hotels outperformed competitors in the same category and area. For example, Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town’s RGI was 194, Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse’s RGI was 175, and Le Méridien Bangkok’s RGI was 146. AWC is determined to continuously develop, renovate, and enhance its quality properties. To increase the value of its operating assets, the company has also launched leading restaurants and cafes in both Bangkok and Chiang Mai including “Hong’s Chinese Restaurant & Sky Bar”, the first upscale rooftop Chinese restaurant in Chiang Mai at InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping, and “Cafe de Petal”, a European-inspired café at Athenee Tower. Additionally, AWC has also introduced “Pikul” application to ensure customers easy access to hotel, dining, and lifestyle services from AWC and leading partners in the tourism industry. In Q1/2024, AWC boasted 22 hotels with over 6,029 rooms and more than 80 restaurant outlets within hotels and various popular tourist destinations across Thailand. For the Retail Business Unit, AWC has formulated a strategy to respond to its target groups’ changing lifestyles and needs. The Commercial Business Unit, meanwhile, successfully, and solidly maintained its revenue level, thanks to its Grade A office buildings, which are well-equipped to support hybrid work trend. Moreover, AWC is preparing to launch “Phenix” – a ‘World’s Food Wholesale Hub with Largest Food Lounge in Pratunam’. Scheduled for an official launch on 26 June 2024, Phenix will deliver seamless services both online and offline through collaborations with various world-class partners. Additionally, AWC will soon unveil “EA Rooftop at The Empire”. The project encompasses EA Gallery, featuring leading international-cuisine eateries with breathtaking views of Bangkok, EA CHEF'S TABLE, presenting three restaurants by Michelin-starred chefs, and Nobu Bangkok, which is not only Thailand's first Nobu outlet but also the world's largest and highest Nobu restaurant. Situated at “The Empire,” an ultimate Grade A office building in the heart of Sathorn, “EA Rooftop at The Empire” promises to establish Bangkok as a global destination of largest rooftop dining experience. GROWTH-LED Strategy Empowers a Long-Term Portfolio AWC has continued to implement its GROWTH-LED Strategy in pursuit of EBITDA growth. Under this strategy, the company’s unique business model has quickly bolstered the potential of Ramp Up and repositioning of assets which totaled THB 88,339 million in Q1/2024, strengthening them to ‘Business As Usual’ (BAU) stage. Furthermore, AWC has been rigorously turning its developing assets worth over THB 40,024 million into operating assets. The five-year strategy will require an investment budget of more than THB 126,000 million. AWC has a robust debt capacity and Growth Fund Model that will enhance its quality portfolio and value in the long run. In 2024, AWC plans to develop “Lannatique” as a quality property project that will establish a world-class art, cultural and lifestyle tourism destination in the heart of Chiang Mai. AWC has also invested further in the strategic Chang Klan area to develop a luxury hotel and Chiang Mai’s first in-hotel water park. “AWC firmly believes in the value of exceptional Thai arts and culture, including the cherished Lanna arts with their longstanding significance. Our shareholders have endorsed investments in ‘Chiang Mai Night Bazaar’, ‘Kalare Night Bazaar’, and ‘The Plaza Chiangmai’ projects, which are integral to 'Lannatique’. This expansive endeavor will commence the opening of its first phase by the end of 2024, followed by subsequent phases scheduled to be completed within 5 years. It aims to foster the growth of the real estate and tourism industries, promote job creation, and stimulate the local economy to strengthen Chiang Mai's position as a world-class sustainable tourism destination. Apart from development in Chiang Mai, which has a total investment exceeding THB 11,950 million, AWC plans to further invest in two additional high-quality real estate projects located in prime areas of Bangkok. The OP Garden project is situated in the Bang Rak area, strategically connected to the flagship project, The Plaza Athenee Nobu Hotel and Spa Bangkok, along the Chao Phraya Riverbank to promote waterfront tourism destinations. Operations for this venture are expected to commence around the fourth quarter of 2027. Furthermore, there are hotel projects focusing on wellness planned for the Sukhumvit 38 area, with operations anticipated to commence around the third quarter of 2028. These developments are aligned with the commitment to support Thailand as a sustainable global tourism destination,” Mrs. Wallapa added. In Q1/2024, AWC also achieved remarkable success in sustainability, supporting Thai tourism on the global stage by achieving the highest scorer in the Hotels, Resorts & Cruise Lines industry, ranking among the Top 1% (Gold Class) on S&P Global rankings. AWC, moreover, successfully entered S&P Global’s The Sustainability Yearbook 2024. On top of these achievements, AWC has partnered with and secured long-term sustainability linked loans from leading financial institutions. AWC has successfully increased the proportion of sustainability linked loans to 100 percent. These milestones are a testament to AWC’s commitment to its “Building a Better Future” philosophy and solid efforts to establish Thailand as a global sustainable tourist destination.
- May 14, 2024Food & Beverage
Ampol Foodary Launches New Coffee Loyalty Program and Heated Food Range
Ampol Foodary has introduced a new loyalty program that rewards customers for enjoying Foodary coffee. Under the new program, customers who buy four coffees and/or hot beverages* will be able to redeem their fifth coffee or hot beverage of regular size for free. The new loyalty cards are available in-store at participating Ampol Foodary locations. Jenny O'Regan, Chief Brand Officer, Ampol, said: "Our customers love the coffee at our Ampol Foodary stores, and we want to reward them for their loyalty. “Our customers have such a strong affinity for Foodary coffee as bold, full of flavour, and setting a positive tone for the rest of their day. “We are confident that this passion for Foodary coffee from our customers will continue with this new loyalty program.” The new coffee loyalty program is available now and can be redeemed at all Ampol Foodary stores nationwide where barista or push-button machine coffee is available. In addition, Ampol Foodary is adding new delicious private label products to its heated food range across 54 stores, including the Foodary Lasagna Toppa and Foodary Cheese Potato Bites. The Foodary Lasagna Toppa is made with New Zealand beef mince, cooked in a rich Bolognese sauce, and topped with pasta and cheese. The entire creation is then encased in a golden crumb. It will retail for $4.50. The Foodary Cheese Potato Bites are croquette-like snacks that come in eight pieces, and will retail for $5.00. “The Foodary Lasagna Toppa and the Foodary Cheese Potato Bites are oven-baked and ready to be enjoyed while on the go,” Jenny said. “Our merchandise team have developed the new delicious heated food range, which we are sure our customers will love.” The Foodary Lasagna Toppa and Foodary Cheese Potato Bites will be available from participating Ampol Foodary stores from early June. Media contact: media@ampol.com.au
- May 14, 2024Business
Ampol Best All Rounder Program Returns for 2024
Ampol has announced the return of its Best All Rounder program for 2024, celebrating the remarkable contributions of final-year students to their schools and local communities. Now in its 39th year, the Ampol Best All Rounder program invites secondary schools across Australia to register and nominate exceptional Year 12 students who embody the program's core values, including: Leadership Service and community engagement Excellence in sports Contributions to arts and culture Positive attitude, and Exemplary personal conduct. The program continues its tradition of recognising overall excellence by awarding the selected Ampol Best All Rounder National winner with a $5,000 cash grant and $1,000 in AmpolCash. Additionally, the nominating school will receive a $5,000 cash grant to enhance educational resources and technology. Led by the Ampol Foundation, dedicated to fostering education, employment, and community engagement among Australian youth, the Ampol Best All Rounder program stands as a testament to Ampol’s commitment to shaping a brighter future for generations to come. Since the program began in 1985, the program has empowered more than 30,000 young Australians, and helped them along in their journey to becoming future leaders in their chosen fields. Ampol Executive General Manager, People and Culture, Meaghan Davis, said: “For almost 40 years, the Ampol Best All Rounder award has celebrated Australia's leaders of tomorrow by recognising final year students who have made outstanding contributions to both their school and local community. “At Ampol, we believe that recognising the all-round contribution of final year students is an important part of developing well-rounded graduates and continue flourishing in whatever they want to pursue.” Registrations for the Ampol Best All Rounder award program are now open with State and National nominations to open later in the year. Registrations close on 24 September. Schools interested in participating can visit Ampol Best All Rounder Award 2024 to learn more and register. Media contact: media@ampol.com.au
- May 14, 2024Business
Commentary on Tender Closing at Holland Drive
Caution prevailed at the URA tender closing today (14 May 2024) for the residential site at Holland Drive (680 units) which saw muted participation from developers and bid prices below expectations. The measured number of bids reflects continued risk aversion and selectiveness among developers especially for prime sites and bigger sites which require larger capital outlay, in light of economic headwinds, interest rate uncertainty and cooling measures. Developer sales also slumped to a 15-year low of 6,421 units in 2023 and have remained tepid in Q1 2024 despite more launches amid negative newsflows from a slew of company layoffs and interest rate uncertainty. Holland Drive The plot at Holland Drive drew 3 bids within expectations but a top bid price of $805.39 mil or $1,285 psf ppr below expectations submitted by a consortium between UOL Group, CapitaLand, and Kheng Leong. Similar to recent state land tenders, interest in today’s tender remained muted as developers continue to exercise caution amid economic weakness, tighter financing conditions, and elevated inflation. While developers could leverage the site’s good size of 680 units to reap economies of scale from more facilities, its larger size also comes with higher developmental risks. This is especially since this site falls just outside the 1 km radius of the popular Henry Park Primary School, and thus may appeal less to locals and young families. Its prime location would also appeal more to foreigner buyers and investors which have been greatly deterred by the increased ABSD under Apr 2023’s round of cooling measures. The unit price of $1,285 psf ppr is 32% below the neighbouring One Holland Village site which drew 15 bids from 10 consortiums during the closing of its tender on 20 Mar 2018 and was eventually awarded via Concept-and-Price Tender on 16 May 2018 for $1.213bn or $1,888 psf ppr. Even though the land rate was below expectations, we think that the proposed development has the potential to achieve an average selling price starting from $2,800 psf. This optimism stems from the site’s prime location and proximity to Holland Village MRT and the mixed-used development at One Holland Village which is shaping up as a bustling lifestyle hub offering abundant amenities. Notably, the remaining 63 units at One Holland Village Residences were transacted at a median price of $2,881 psf in 2023, highlighting the strong demand of the area. Furthermore, with One Holland Village Residences fully sold, buyers have fewer choices in the immediate area with limited new 99-year leasehold supply around it. About CBRE Group, Inc. CBRE Group, Inc. (NYSE:CBRE), a Fortune 500 and S&P 500 company headquartered in Dallas, is the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm (based on 2023 revenue). The company has more than 130,000 employees (including Turner & Townsend employees) serving clients in more than 100 countries. CBRE serves a diverse range of clients with an integrated suite of services, including facilities, transaction and project management; property management; investment management; appraisal and valuation; property leasing; strategic consulting; property sales; mortgage services and development services. Please visit our website at www.cbre.com .
- May 14, 2024Business
Indorama Ventures achieves ‘AA’ rating from MSCI for its ESG journey
Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited, a global sustainable chemical company, announced that MSCI awarded the company an upgraded ‘AA’ from ‘A’ rating, ranking it in the ‘Leader’ category for its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance towards achieving its ongoing sustainability goals and commitments. Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI), a leading provider of research-driven indices and analytics, ranked Indorama Ventures among the top 12% of 57 global companies in the commodity chemicals sector. This upgraded rating illustrates Indorama Ventures’ performance to exceed industry peers while minimizing its environmental footprint. Yash Lohia, Chairman of the ESG Council at Indorama Ventures, said: “We are immensely proud of our upgrade to an 'AA' MSCI ESG rating, which not only highlights our dedication to sustainable operational excellence but also aligns with our purpose of reimagining chemistry together to create a better world. This recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, ethical governance, and social responsibility.” The MSCI ESG Ratings play a pivotal role in guiding investor decisions and offer insights into how well companies address key long-term ESG risks and opportunities compared to their industry peers. These ratings range from AAA (highest) to CCC (lowest), providing a transparent, data-driven benchmark that helps guide investment decisions based on sustainability criteria.
- May 13, 2024Others
Progress Report on Field Testing of Collecting Plastic Containers for Personal and Home Care Products Using a Local Government Collection Route
From April 2023 to March 2024, Kao Corporation worked with general recycling business Nakadai Co. Ltd. to conduct field testing for recycling plastic packaging used for personal and home care products in the Japanese city of Satsumasendai, Kagoshima Prefecture. The one-year program, targeting approximately 1,300 households in the city, collected the packaging using the city’s existing recycling route. Recycling of PET plastic beverage bottles via local government routes for recyclables is already well established, but this field-testing scheme for personal and home care product plastic containers is the first of its kind* . Several similar programs now in effect aim to find answers to the issues experienced in field testing of obtaining sufficient quantities of materials to recycle and reducing the cost of collection to set up a sustainable collection system. Field testing in Satsumasendai is being conducted as part of the Circular Park Kyushu project for a sustainable future and has been incorporated into the city’s SDGs Innovation Trial Support Project. Results of field testing and prospects for the future are described below. *According to Kao data as of April 2023. News Release from April 2023 Field Testing of a New Collection Scheme in Japan Using Local Government Collection Route to Achieve Horizontal Recycling of Plastic Containers for Personal and Home Care Products Used plastic containers left in a collection box (left) are stored at a city-owned collection point (right), from where Nakadai collects them once a week for quantity and quality analysis Description of the Field Testing Satsumasendai City currently collects recyclables (washed and dried plastic containers for personal and home care products, food packaging and colored food trays) once or twice a month. To facilitate participation, all plastic packaging for personal and home care products, with the exception of tubes, is collected and can be left at local collection points where consumers already drop off other recyclables. Items Evaluated and Results Obtained Ensuring a stable, sufficient supply of containers as a source of materials A total of 715kg of plastic containers was collected from 1,300 households. Ensuring quality of recyclables for re-use Only 3% of the total packaging collected was deemed ineligible, and around 90% was high-quality material that had been washed and dried. It is expected that 98% of the material collected will be of acceptable quality suitable for recycling. Reducing collection costs to make the scheme sustainable This field-testing scheme has been incorporated into Satsumasendai City’s SDGs Innovation Trial Support Project, which is providing support in the form of coordination with personnel and making available more collection points. Collection costs are shouldered by Kao and Nakadai. Participants’ Comments To identify issues with the collection scheme during the field-testing period and gain insights into what could increase motivation to take part, participants were asked to reply to a questionnaire. While respondents agreed that the scheme was valuable in terms of reducing the burden on the environment and making good use of resources, many of them found the requirement to sort, wash, dry and take used packaging to a collection point burdensome. In particular, since the packaging was only collected once every two weeks, respondents brought up the issue of needing to store the containers at home until collection time or felt that it was more convenient to be able to drop them off at supermarkets, etc. any time, pointing to the need for improvement in this area. Looking to the Future With these field-testing results in mind, Kao and Circular Park Kyushu, working together with Satsumasendai City, will implement a new scheme for one year, from April 2024 to March 2025, reflecting the insights gained from the questionnaire. Under the new scheme, the plan is to use supermarkets in Satsumasendai as collection points for used packaging. Analysis work and other tasks, conducted so far by Nakadai, will be taken over by Circular Park Kyushu in conjunction with the start of operations by Circular Park Kyushu Co., Ltd. in Satsumasendai. Collection frequency, previously twice a month, will be greatly expanded, which is expected to increase the volume of used containers collected. Collection costs within the scheme as a whole will continue to be studied by the parties involved. In April 2019, the Kao Group established the Kirei Lifestyle Plan, an ESG strategy. Since 2021, the Kao Group has been promoting the Kao Group Mid-term Plan with its vision of “protecting future lives” and “sustainability as the only path.” This field testing for collecting plastic containers addresses one of the Kirei Lifestyle Plan’s leadership actions of achieving “zero waste.” Through this field testing, Kao will continue to examine recycling schemes to expand self-directed participation by stakeholders in each step of the recycling process, from sorting and collection to transport and recycling. The company aims to gain the understanding and support of consumers in particular as active participants in resource circularity, from product selection and use to sorting, collection and recycling of packaging. The Kao Group will continue to integrate its ESG strategy into its management practices, develop its business, provide better products and services for consumers and society, and work toward its purpose, “to realize a Kirei world in which all life lives in harmony.” *This news release is a translation of a Japanese-language news release dated April 11, 2024. About the Kirei Lifestyle Plan Over the past 130 years, Kao has worked to improve people’s lives and help them realize more sustainable lifestyles—a Kirei Lifestyle. The Japanese word ‘kirei’ describes something that is clean, well-ordered and beautiful, all at the same time. The Kao Group established its ESG strategy, the Kirei Lifestyle Plan in April 2019, which is designed to deliver the vision of a gentler and more sustainable way of living. By 2030, Kao aims to empower at least 1 billion people, to enjoy more beautiful lives and have 100% of its products leave a full lifecycle environmental footprint that science says our natural world can safely absorb. Please visit the Kao sustainability website for more information. About Kao Kao creates high-value-added products and services that provide care and enrichment for the life of all people and the planet. Through its portfolio of over 20 leading brands such as Attack , Bioré , Goldwell , Jergens , John Frieda , Kanebo , Laurier , Merries, and Molton Brown , Kao is part of the everyday lives of people in Asia, Oceania, North America, and Europe. Combined with its chemical business, which contributes to a wide range of industries, Kao generates about 1,530 billion yen in annual sales. Kao employs about 34,300 people worldwide and has 137 years of history in innovation. Please visit the Kao Group website for updated information. Media inquiries should be directed to: Public Relations Kao Corporation corporate_pr@kao.com
- May 13, 2024Sports
Seven welcomes the newest David Leckie Seven Scholarship Program winner
Seven West Media is pleased to announce and welcome the third recipient of the annual David Leckie Seven Scholarship Program: Alessandro Rosini. A recent graduate of Melbourne’s Swinburne University of Technology, where he completed a bachelor’s degree in media and communications (majoring in journalism), Alessandro joins Seven West Media today and will initially work in the Sydney digital division. He follows in the footsteps of previous scholarship recipients Madeline McKeown and Nuwan Ranasinghe. The David Leckie Seven Scholarship Program was set up in late 2012 to honour the career and legacy of the late David Leckie, former Seven West Media Chief Executive Officer. The program offers a 12-month role at Seven West Media for a graduate with a passion for sales, programming or news. It was set up in partnership with Skye Leckie and David and Skye’s sons, Harry and Ben. The selection process is overseen each year by Skye, Harry and Ben Leckie and senior Seven West Media executives. Skye, Harry and Ben Leckie said: “We are greatly honoured that Kerry Stokes and Seven provide this wonderful program for a young person. “Alessandro is an outstanding individual and we are so thrilled for him to have this extraordinary opportunity. It’s a chance for him to be able to fulfill his dream and be immersed in the ever-changing media world. “David had many loves during his years in media, but TV was his #1. We are thrilled that his legacy can continue and allow others to have the experience of working in TV. Thank you to Jeff and the team at Seven for yet again finding such impressive candidates for this great scholarship program,” they said. Seven West Media Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Jeff Howard, said: “Alessandro was an outstanding candidate and is a really deserving recipient of this year’s scholarship. He is passionate about the media business, highly motivated and very keen to learn. “David was a legendary leader at Seven and in the media industry, and his legacy lives on in the many people in our business he mentored, the content and strategies he championed, and the passion for media he instilled in everyone he met. It also lives on in this scholarship program, which is both a tribute to David and a great way for Seven to support and develop new recruits. “It’s great to welcome Alessandro to Seven today and along with Skye, the Leckie family and the entire Seven team, I wish him every success,” he said. For more information, please contact: Neil Shoebridge M: 0417 511 012 E: neil@skmediagroup.com.au Andrew Knowles M: 0449 510 357 E: andrew@skmediagroup.com.au About Seven West Media Seven West Media (ASX: SWM) is one of Australia’s most prominent media companies, reaching more than 19 million people a month with a market-leading presence in content production across broadcast television, publishing and digital. The company owns some of Australia’s most renowned media businesses, including the Seven Network and its affiliate channels 7two, 7mate, 7flix and 7Bravo; the digital platform 7plus; 7NEWS.com.au ; The West Australian; The Sunday Times ; and The Nightly . The Seven Network is home to Australia’s most loved news, sport and entertainment programming, including 7NEWS, 7NEWS Spotlight, Sunrise, The Morning Show, The Voice, Home and Away, Australian Idol, My Kitchen Rules, SAS Australia, Farmer Wants A Wife, The Chase Australia, Better Homes and Gardens, RFDS, The 1% Club and the TV WEEK Logie Awards . Seven Network is also the broadcast partner of the AFL, Cricket Australia and Supercars.
- May 13, 2024Business
Traveloka strengthens sustainability pledge as world’s first Platinum Sponsor of GSTC
Traveloka, Southeast Asia’s leading travel platform, today announced its support to the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) to become its first-ever Platinum Sponsor. This historic sponsorship is a tangible demonstration of Traveloka’s commitment to elevating the sustainability standards of the travel and hospitality industry worldwide. As a Platinum Sponsor, Traveloka will partner closely with GSTC to fulfill tourism’s potential as a vehicle for social, cultural, and economic good. Traveloka will also provide essential support to GSTC when it hosts its annual global conference in Singapore this November for the first time. “As Traveloka strives to connect more Southeast Asian travelers with global tourism destinations, we are solidifying our commitment to responsibly managing the sustainability impact of our business and travelers who use our platform,” said Caesar Indra, President of Traveloka . “By becoming GSTC’s first-ever Platinum Sponsor, we are strengthening our pledge to foster a more responsible global tourism industry so that future generations can continue to experience the joys and pleasures of travel.” Traveloka first joined GSTC in 2022, where it pledged to foster a more sustainable and responsible global tourism ecosystem. Since becoming a member, Traveloka has led by example and driven multiple regional initiatives, such as sponsoring sustainable tourism courses for hotels and government agencies across Southeast Asia. Traveloka also introduced features to enable users to identify and book hotels with sustainability certifications aligned with GSTC standards. Randy Durband, CEO of Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) , said, “We warmly welcome Traveloka as a Platinum Sponsor. GSTC is a mission-driven non-profit organization, and this sponsorship will be a significant boost in our work to build a more sustainable and responsible global travel industry. Over the past two years, Traveloka has put their words into action by leading many sustainability initiatives that have resulted in positive impact across Southeast Asia. We look forward to working closely with Traveloka to push the industry’s sustainability agenda to greater heights.”
- May 13, 2024Business
Teleport is making affordable next-day delivery a reality for all
Teleport, an integrated logistics provider, is making affordable next-day delivery a reality for all businesses in Southeast Asia, with the target of delivering two million parcels daily by 2025, on par with global express players. The market is at an inflection point - there is more cross-border e-commerce volume flowing into Southeast Asia than ever before – key e-commerce lanes between China and the top five Southeast Asia countries is expected to grow to USD 3.8 billion in freight value in 2025. Cross border e-commerce volume by air is forecasted to grow 20%-25% through to 2027, reflecting continued market growth in the region. With increased market demand and growth, consumers have increasing expectations for faster yet more affordable delivery. “The market is ready. We are ready. We want to change the game of how cross border logistics is delivered in Southeast Asia. Delivering fast, affordable and reliable service is hard but we believe our approach can make this a reality for all. Controlling the right hybrid belly network, enabled by the right use of technology, and the right operating model provides our customers and partners a next-day service in Southeast Asia that, for the first time, everyone can afford,” Pete Chareonwongsak, CEO of Teleport said. Teleport held a media briefing today in Kuala Lumpur to share the company’s growth strategy over the next five years. During the briefing, Pete and the Teleport leadership team shared what it takes to successfully deliver on its next-day ambition, with the goal to achieve two million daily parcels by 2025. Teleport’s growth strategy comprises three key components: i. A hybrid network: Continue to strengthen its network infrastructure with extensive first- to last-mile next-day delivery infrastructure, as well as working with more air partners to add more capacity on key high volume lanes. This is on top of its existing stronghold in Southeast Asia comprising a multi-hub hybrid mid-mile belly network of freighters and passenger belly space of more than 30 partner airlines combined; ii. Reliability powered by technology: Safeguarding the reliability of a next-day, affordable delivery by ramping up the right technology build that will firstly, enable seamless orchestration from first to last mile; secondly, provide full visibility to ensure that it works for all; and finally, to incorporate intelligence to ensure that it works regardless, with the capability for automated yet flexibility in planning, prediction and most importantly, service recovery; iii. A cost-leading, sustainable operating model: Teleport’s asset-light, pay-per-use model enables it to operate with a lower cost structure - to ensure more growth drives continued profitability. Customers benefit by way of affordable pricing and growing network access. When third party airline partners with Teleport, they benefit from incremental revenue gained through new and growing volume channelled through their belly capacity. “This is our next stage of growth. Affordable, next day delivery for all in Southeast Asia is the final mission from the day one vision. Our next 5 years will deliver this, and help all businesses with simpler and better service, but also our airline partners will never have to fly empty. We succeed when we ensure everyone wins with Teleport. Market growth is unlimited when we do.” said Pete. For access to full Media Kit, click HERE . For more information about Teleport’s business, visit teleport.asia .
- May 13, 2024Business
AirAsia continues to champion women in airline operations with launch of Moms-on-Duty kit
To celebrate Mother’s Day, AirAsia today announced the addition of a new nursing cover to its signature uniforms for pilots and cabin crew. The cover is part of a Moms-on-Duty kit that the airlines will be providing to new mothers in operations starting this year. The uniform enhancement symbolically marks the launch of a new Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiative at the airline to create stronger workplace policies in support of working mothers in operational roles. AirAsia Chief People Officer, Intan Shahira Mohd Shahru said, “Women who work in operational roles face unique challenges. They are required to work shifts in an unconventional work environment. The adjustment back to flying hours while juggling motherhood responsibilities can significantly impact their wellbeing, especially those who are still nursing. Since last year, we began looking into policies and practices that can ease their return to work.” Among findings from focus group discussions conducted with Allstar mothers working as pilots and cabin crew include the limited time they have to express breastmilk before, during, or in-between flights as well as the lack of a private space on an aircraft. As a result, some have had no choice but to extend their maternity leave on an unpaid basis or to leave the profession altogether. Others have experienced uncomfortable looks either from guests or co-workers. Intan added, “This campaign is important for AirAsia to stand with our moms and say that it is normal to be a working mother. It is also a part of creating a safe and conducive work environment for our Allstars.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Fly AirAsia (@flyairasia) To address issues highlighted by the crew, the Moms-on-Duty Kit includes a handbook that provides working mothers with guidelines on items such as how to inform their co-workers when they require time and privacy to express breastmilk. The guide also includes references on how to seek in-house support on health and nutritional matters. An AirAsia baby romper completes the set as a gift to their newborn. Intan said “The introduction of the Moms-on-Duty Kit is part of a broader initiative for AirAsia to boost female participation in operational roles. AirAsia is committed to improving its policies and practices to boost women participation in operational roles. This includes enhancing the facilities and offices, as well as improving income security for pregnant pilots, cabin crews and engineers in line with global aviation best practices guidelines published by the International Civil Aviation Organization.” In 2022, AirAsia extended maternity leave for all its staff in Malaysia from 60 days to 98 days. AirAsia opened a childcare centre at its headquarters, RedQ, in 2018. The centre accepts children from 11 months to 6 years and currently cares for 80 children of working Allstars. In its Sustainability Report 2023 published last week, AirAsia reported positive outcomes in its efforts to improve female participation in leadership and STEM roles. Its achievements included increasing the proportion of women occupying leadership positions to 32% from 24% the previous year. Female pilot representation also rose to 7% from 6.6% and women in IT roles to 23.9% from 17.7% in 2022.
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