Friday 29 April 2016

ANAPLAN APPOINTS SPLUNK CFO DAVID CONTE TO ITS BOARD OF DIRECTORS

SAN FRANCISCO, April 28 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Anaplan, the enterprise planning cloud company, today announced it has appointed David F. Conte to its board of directors.

Conte brings over 20 years of finance expertise to Anaplan's board. He is currently Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Senior Vice President at Splunk Inc., provider of the leading software platform for real-time Operational Intelligence. Previously, he served as CFO at IronKey, Inc., an internet security and privacy company. Prior to that, he served as CFO at software company Opsware when it was acquired by Hewlett-Packard Company.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26701

MPC: 21 PUBLIC AND PRIVATE BODIES SAVE RM8.7 MILLION THROUGH 'LEAN' SYSTEM

KUALA LUMPUR, April 28 (Bernama) -- The implementation of the LEAN development system to boost national productivity and innovation has seen savings of RM8.7 million by 21 public and private organisations, Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC) director-general Datuk Mohd Razali Hussain said.
He said the MPC managed to gather 24 projects from 21 public and private bodies that demonstrated a positive impact in terms of effective process and time saving, as well as products that failed to meet specifications.
"Indirectly, through this method, an organisation can help reduce waste and manpower and will be able to achieve the goal of obtaining maximum results in the future," he said in a statement here today.
The programme is a collaborative efforts among the MPC, the Ministry of International Trade and Industry and the Malaysian Timber Industry Board through the Vendor Development Programme.
It is aimed at helping organisations reduce waste and maximise customer value, hence improving the quality of work.
LEAN refers to a collection of principles and methods that focuses on identifying and eliminating non-value added activities through continuous improvement of products for the benefit of customers and in the pursuit of perfection.
It strives to speed up customer service, manage operations effectively and reduce operating costs to a minimum.
-- BERNAMA
 http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v8/bu/newsbusiness.php?id=1240438

Thursday 28 April 2016

TOSHIBA LAUNCHES CURRENT-FEEDBACK 4CH POWER AMPLIFIER IC FOR CAR AUDIO WITH BUILT-IN FULL-TIME OFFSET DETECTION

TOKYO, April 27 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Toshiba Corporation's (TOKYO:6502) Storage & Electronic Devices Solutions Company today announced the launch of "TCB501HQ," a 4-channel power amplifier IC that detects output offset voltage that is a factor in speaker burnout. Mass production is scheduled to start in June 2016.

The new IC integrates a newly developed, full-time offset detection circuit. Conventional offset detection during sound reproduction is difficult. Toshiba's new IC detects output DC offset voltage caused by leakage from the input capacitor and other sources, even during sound reproduction, and prevents speaker burnout.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26699

DECKER & CO. JOINT LEADS LARGE STOCK OFFERING FOR PHILIPPINES-BASED XURPAS, INC.

SAN FRANCISCO, April 27 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Institutional equities broker Decker & Co. announced today the completion of a stock offering for Philippines-based Xurpas, Inc. (PSE:X) in which it served as Joint Coordinator with SB Capital. Xurpas successfully completed an accelerated overnight placement of 155,400,000 shares at Php16.00 per share. The placement was priced at an 11.9% discount to the 30-day average price of Php18.15 per share.

The overnight placement was subscribed to by 21 global funds including Philippine QIBs and funds across Asia, Europe and the U.S. It was structured as a partial top-up, in which Xurpas' founders sold shares and repurchased a portion of those newly issued, and effectively increased the free float level of Xurpas to about 28% from 20% prior to the transaction.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26696

NASDAQ LAUNCHES NEW QUALITY ASSURANCE PLATFORM, NASDAQ VALIDATOR

New technology solution is built to accelerate time-to-market with robust testing and unparalleled quality assurance

NEW YORK, April 27 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Nasdaq (Nasdaq:NDAQ), has officially launched the Nasdaq Validator to support exchanges, clearinghouses and central securities depositories (CSDs) in reducing the cost and complexity of quality assurance (QA), and bring new functionality to market quickly and effectively. Nasdaq Validator is an API-independent testing platform offering manual and automated test tools for the capital markets industry that was created from Nasdaq's experience in developing and delivering marketplace systems to over 100 exchange clients worldwide.

The solution focuses on shortening time-to-market for manual tests, driving efficiencies in the testing and QA process and simplifying access and usage of test tools enabling a broader user group, particularly those less technologically-oriented, to be engaged in the verification process. Nasdaq Validator interfaces with Nasdaq's matching, clearing and CSD systems, in addition to systems by other providers; it is currently in-use by Nasdaq and external clients.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26693

ULTRAFLEX MINI PC-IMMENSE POWER AT AN INCREDIBLE DENSITY FOR EXTREME APPLICATIONS

ROTKREUZ, Switzerland, April 28 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The WEY Group introduces the UltraFlex Mini PC, a minicomputer with the size of a graphic card and the performance of a modern full-fledged desktop PC. The tiny, efficient PC is particularly suitable for use in demanding work environments where space is limited, such as airport towers, trading floors, broadcast trucks and most kinds of vehicles.

The UltraFlex Mini PC offers outstanding computing power, is suitable for multi-screen environments and compatible with a variety of operating systems. It can be custom configured to meet individual user performance requirements.


ALMEX INC. (USEN GROUP) LAUNCHED LOVEINN JAPAN

TOKYO, April 26 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- ALMEX INC. has launched Loveinn Japan, a website devoted to Japanese love hotels on April 25, 2016.

Loveinn Japan is the first website in English exclusively for foreigners, with Chinese and Korean languages to be added in the coming months. Its purpose is to introduce the unique culture of love hotels to foreigners, including guides and how-to tutorials to make it easier for travelers to use leisure hotels when coming to Japan. Loveinn Japan also offers the option to search and browse hundreds of love hotels, with many more to be added every month. Frequent content updates and blog entries are another core feature of this website, offering advice on love hotels and related topics. 

Wednesday 27 April 2016

A.M. BEST BRIEFING: JAPAN EARTHQUAKES TO HAVE MODERATE IMPACT ON INSURERS' EARNINGS AND LITTLE EFFECT ON FINANCIAL STRENGTH

OLDWICK, N.J., April 26 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best expects that the rated non-life insurers affected by the recent earthquakes in Japan will be able to withstand losses, with a moderate impact on earnings but little effect on financial strength, according to a new Best's Briefing. While the series of earthquakes, which occurred in Kumamoto Prefecture in mid-April, are expected to lead to sizeable losses, the impact could be mostly mitigated by the release of catastrophe reserves. Although Japan is prone to earthquake risk, the penetration of earthquake insurance remains relatively low, which indicates insured losses would be a small portion of the economic losses caused by the series of earthquakes.

The briefing, titled, "Earthquakes in Kyushu – Moderate Impact on Insurers' Earnings With Little Effect on Financial Strength," states that the affected insurers have reported robust growth in capital over the past five years, largely due to an increase in unrealized gains under J-GAAP, recent improvement in profitability driven by premium rate hikes in major insurance lines and benign catastrophe loss experiences.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26683

Tuesday 26 April 2016

A.M. BEST AFFIRMS RATINGS OF VIETNAM NATIONAL REINSURANCE CORPORATION

SINGAPORE, April 25 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has affirmed the financial strength rating (FSR) of B (Good) and the issuer credit rating (ICR) of "bbb" of Vietnam National Reinsurance Corporation (VINARE) (Vietnam). The outlook for the FSR remains stable while the outlook for the ICR remains positive.

The ratings reflect VINARE's adequate risk-adjusted capitalization, consistent operating performance and good business profile.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26678

Monday 25 April 2016

IMPRIVATA URGES HOSPITALS TO DITCH THE PAGER

#DitchPageBoy social campaign encourages providers to embrace 21st century communications technology to reduce provider frustration and improve patient care
 
LEXINGTON, Mass., April 25 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Imprivata® (NYSE: IMPR), the healthcare IT security company, today launched the #DitchPageBoy social media campaign, to shed light on the risks associated with relying on pagers to communicate within a hospital. Through a series of tongue-in-cheek videos featuring Page Boy, an annoying, intrusive, and inefficient sidekick who causes all kinds of problems for his healthcare professionals and their patients, Imprivata pokes fun at the absurdity of using the obsolete pager in 2016.

To watch #DitchPageBoy videos, visit: https://www.imprivata.com/Meet-Page-Boy.

JAIME R. LANDIVAR NAMED PA GROUP'S NEW LIFE & INVESTMENTS VICE PRESIDENT OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

MIAMI, April 25 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- PA Group appointed Jaime Landivar, a global investment professional with over 20 years of experience in the financial services industry, as new VP of Business Development for its Life & Investments Division. Jaime will report directly to Charles Jorge, PA Group’s President, and will be based at the company’s global headquarters in Coral Gables, Florida. He will be responsible for expanding distribution in Latin America, Asia and the Middle East.

“Jaime’s strong experience, not simply as a financial services professional, but as an expert in the international financial industry, will be of great value to help our company fortify its presence in the various markets where we do business today,” commented Jorge. “He is a highly motivated professional with the perfect combination of abilities and a long, solid track record of success. We are very happy to count on his expertise to continue expanding our Life & Investments division.”


Sunday 24 April 2016

OIL PALM PROMOTION MISSION TO FRANCE AND BELGIUM 24 - 28 APRIL 2016

PUTRAJAYA, April 22 (Bernama) -- YB Ar. Wan Khai-ril Anuar bin Wan Ahmad, Chairman, Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) will lead the Oil Palm Promotion Mission to France and Belgium from 24 to 28 April 2016. The delegation includes Secretary General of Ministry of Plantation Industries and Commodities, Senior Officials and selected Members of Parliament.

The delegates to France and Belgium will:
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26670

Saturday 23 April 2016

Malaysia's Science Talents Quest Through Famelab And School Lab Competition

PETALING JAYA, April 23 (Bernama) -- The Malaysia Industry-Government Group for High Technology (MIGHT), in partnership with Cheltenham Festivals and British Council Malaysia, has organised FameLab and School Lab, in its effort to find Malaysia's young science ambassadors.

Because communicating science effectively to a non-scientific audience is an ongoing requirement for researchers worldwide, these science competitions are part of the nation's commitment to encourage and promote interest in Science & Technology, said MIGHT in a statement today.

MIGHT president and Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Dr Mohd Yusoff Sulaiman said their aim was to create the opportunities and platforms for young people to express themselves and unearth their hidden talents in science communication.

"We bring together the best of the public and private sectors and non-governmental organisation (NGO) from United Kingdom (UK) and Malaysia to ensure the success and global outreach for these programs," he said.

FameLab Malaysia is in its second year with 42 participants aged 18 to 37 years old nationwide.

The winner of the three-minute presentation of a jury of FameLab will continue to participate in the FameLab International Final at the Cheltenham Festivals in the UK come June.

Meanwhile, School Lab, a programme under the purview of the Ministry of Education is targeting lower secondary school students (Form 1-3) and aims to help students understand the exciting challenges of science as well as gaining the confidence and skills required to present their understanding of science concept.

Over 100 video submissions in both English and Malay has been received by School Lab from 296 teams from secondary schools nationwide and the winner will stand a chance to win individual prizes and cash for the purchase of lab equipment for their school.

In addition to that, finalists from FameLab and School Lab also received special training from some of the best UK science communicators and mentoring by FameLab 2015 alumni to ensure continuous sharing and learning process.

-- BERNAMA

http://www.bernama.com/bernama/v8/newsindex.php?id=1238472

KUALA LUMPUR TRADE AND COPYRIGHT CENTRE (KLTCC) 2016 TO ENRICH THE ASEAN LICENSING AND PUBLISHING INDUSTRY

KUALA LUMPUR, April 22 (Bernama) -- The Kuala Lumpur Trade and Copyright Centre (KLTCC) is back for the 9th edition this year to enrich the ASEAN licensing and publishing industry through intellectual properties (IPs) trade and digital convergence. Hence, Malaysia's hub for the book industry; Kota Buku as the main organiser is calling all exhibitors, content creators and trade visitors to participate and bring their IPs to life at the 3-day event, which will be held at the Malaysia Agro Exposition Park Serdang (MAEPS) from 7th to 9th May 2016.

Consistent with its position to serve as a channel that promotes copyrights and digital rights trade, KLTCC’s main focuses for this year include; Page to Pitch Media 360 (P2P) (the world's first publishing to media pitching competition), ASEAN Book Industry Symposium (ABIS) (a platform for exchanging ideas and thoughts about the ASEAN book industry), Pocket Talks (gain insight into the world of content and copyrights by international and local speakers), improved business matching sessions with pre-arranged meetings, and various exhibitions.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26672

SNOOPY MUSEUM - HOLY LAND FOR "PEANUTS" FANS -- TO OPEN IN ROPPONGI, TOKYO

TOKYO, Apr. 22, 2016 /Kyodo JBN-AsiaNet/ --

Snoopy Museum Tokyo, the world's first satellite museum of the California, U.S.-based Charles M. Schulz Museum and Research Center, opens in the Roppongi district of Tokyo on Saturday, April 23, 2016.

Once every six months until September 2018, Snoopy Museum Tokyo will hold exhibitions displaying original comic strips and other artworks from the collection of the Charles M. Schulz Museum.


A.M. BEST SPECIAL REPORT: THAILAND INSURERS FOCUSING ON COST EFFICIENCIES IN LOW-GROWTH ENVIRONMENT TO CAPITALIZE ON THE ASEAN OPEN MARKET

SINGAPORE, April 22 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- According to a new Best's Special Report, titled, "Thailand Insurers Focusing on Cost Efficiencies in Low-Growth Environment To Capitalize on the ASEAN Open Market," government growth initiatives have helped the Thailand non-life insurance industry to grow out of the crisis brought on by the catastrophic floods in 2011.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26664

Friday 22 April 2016

HOUSE OF SILLAGE推出最新限量版PASSION DE L'AMOUR香水

加利福尼亞新港灣, April 21 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- 全球首屈一指的高級香水品牌House of Sillage隆重推出限量版Passion de L’Amour香水。這款香氣獨特、瓶身設計巧奪天工的產品,全球只限量發行1,000瓶。


Passion de L’Amour香水的靈感源自南太平洋上熱帶風情迷人的仲夏夜之樂。香草和焦糖氣味芳香撲鼻,沉香木的氣息令人恍如置身於奇妙的異國風情之中,與你展開一 段馥郁華麗的冒險旅程。House of Sillage將此醉人香氛融入於品牌經典的漸變色香水瓶之中,以奢華體驗締造House of Sillage的非凡品質。

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26654

VOCALINK SELECTED AS RECIPIENT OF NACHA'S 2016 GEORGE MITCHELL PAYMENTS SYSTEM EXCELLENCE AWARD

Award Presented at PAYMENTS 2016 in Phoenix
 

PHOENIX, Ariz., April 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- VocaLink announced today that it has been selected as the recipient of the 2016 George Mitchell Payments System Excellence Award. The award is given annually by NACHA—The Electronic Payments Association®.

The award is named after former vice-chair of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve, George Mitchell, an early proponent of electronic payments. It honors an individual or organization that has shown superior leadership in the development, implementation or advancement of domestic or international electronic payments.

HOUSE OF SILLAGE RELEASES NEW LIMITED EDITION PASSION DE L'AMOUR FRAGRANCE

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif., April 20 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- House of Sillage, a leading Haute Parfumerie, has released its Limited Edition Passion de L'Amour fragrance. This fragrance is an exclusive, limited edition product, where only 1,000 of these magnificently designed caps have been produced worldwide.

Passion de L'Amour was inspired by a moment of sheer bliss on a hot tropical night in the SouthPacific. Breezes of vanilla and caramel entice while hints of oud carry you to far off exotic locales. Sumptuous adventure awaits. This alluring parfum comes in the classic House of Sillage ombre lacquered glass bottle to add to the luxurious experience that is the hallmark of House of Sillage.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26647

STAR CLOUD SERVICES BRINGS FIRST DIGITAL RECEIPT SOLUTION TO SINGAPORE RETAILERS

SUNNYVALE, Calif., April 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE-- Star Cloud Services, a subsidiary of leading receipt printer manufacturer Star Micronics, announced it has expanded support to retailers in Singapore.
 

Built to bring IoT solutions to retailers, Star Cloud Services helps them better engage with, activate and retain shoppers by turning receipt printers into cloud-connected devices and offers a suite of free services to get the most out of shopper data available from receipts. 

KIMBALL ELECTRONICS WINS FIVE CATEGORIES OF SERVICE EXCELLENCE AWARDS

JASPER, Ind., April 22 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Kimball Electronics (NASDAQ:KE) announced it has received top honors in the CIRCUITS ASSEMBLY 2016 Service Excellence Awards. Sponsored by CIRCUITS ASSEMBLY, the Service Excellence Awards (SEAs) for Electronics Manufacturing Services (EMS) providers honor companies that excel in the crucial area of customer service. The program, now in its 24th year, functions as a way for participants to see how they compare to peers in customer satisfaction. For EMS firms with revenue over $500 million, Kimball Electronics took home all five awards.
 
On Tuesday, March 15th, during the 2016 CIRCUITS ASSEMBLY Service Excellence Awards ceremony at IPC Apex Expo, Kimball Electronics was once again recognized by our Customers for best in class for all five categories: Dependability and Timely Delivery, Technology, Responsiveness, Manufacturing Quality, and Value. 

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26665

Thursday 21 April 2016

Meet HR Guru, Dave Ulrich In Kuala Lumpur May 31

KUALA LUMPUR, April 22 (Bernama) -- Grab a chance to meet and learn more about the role of human resources (HR) by joining a one-day programme by world renowned HR guru, Professor Dr Dave Ulrich.

Homegrown human capital development organisation, K-Pintar Sdn Bhd in a statement today said the programme organised with the support of the Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF) will be held on May 31 at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur.

The session will feature Dr Ulrich insights on how developing an HR practice can directly contribute to the growth and revenue potential of an organisation effectively.

With the topic 'The Next New Thing: How HR Creates Value from Outside In', the USA-born guru will assist in answering questions related to the field that helps participants build perspective, deliver outcomes and empower transformation in their organisations.

Meanwhile, K-Pintar chief executive officer, RA Thiagaraja said the programme is hoped to bring in respected leaders to share the latest trends and best practices for continuous professional development.

"Our commitment in human capital development extends beyond reskilling and upskilling the general Malaysian workforce," he said.

For more information about the programme, visit www.kpintaracademy.com.

-- BERNAMA

FAST CASUAL DINING DRIVES FOODSERVICE AT 10.4 PERCENT GROWTH IN 2015

CHICAGO, April 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Global market research company Euromonitor International released today new consumer foodservice industry data. According to the new research, consumer foodservice sales grew 5.7 percent globally in 2015, improving on last year’s growth rate of 5.3 percent. Fast casual dining was the strongest growing segment across the industry at 10.4 percent, increasing USD $3.4 billion from 2014 to 2015.

“Consumers are shifting their dining preferences, especially in developed markets,” Elizabeth Friend, consumer foodservice strategy analyst at Euromonitor International, said. “Coffee shops, for example, saw a high increase in sales last year, which shows that the dining-out culture is continuing to evolve toward more modern, premium, casual and social experiences.” 

MITEL ADVANCES REAL-TIME COMMUNICATIONS FOR MOBILE WORKERS AND CONSUMERS

SAN DIEGO, April 21 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mitel® (Nasdaq:MITL) (TSX:MNW), a global leader in real-time business, cloud and mobile communications, today announced its next series of innovations for businesses and services providers as the company continues to deliver the technology and capabilities for mobile-first, cloud-enabled and millennial-focused communications and collaboration.
 
Delivering a Millennial-Ready Contact Center Experience: The advent of 4G and 5G networks is driving a consumer’s natural point of entry into businesses through mobile applications. With the corresponding emergence of Internet of Things and machine-to-machine services, businesses need added agility to adapt and prosper. The newest generation of Mitel’s MiContact Center, a mobile-first, millennial-ready customer engagement platform delivers that agility, transforming every interaction into an opportunity to build customer loyalty. By enabling an advanced digital customer experience across real-time communications social media and CRM integration, MiContact Center offers a cohesive view into a customer’s profile, which can intertwine with advanced skills-based routing capabilities to find an expert and deliver an immediate and satisfying customer experience.



Wednesday 20 April 2016

FAST CASUAL DINING DRIVES FOODSERVICE AT 10.4 PERCENT GROWTH IN 2015

CHICAGO, April 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Global market research company Euromonitor International released today new consumer foodservice industry data. According to the new research, consumer foodservice sales grew 5.7 percent globally in 2015, improving on last year’s growth rate of 5.3 percent. Fast casual dining was the strongest growing segment across the industry at 10.4 percent, increasing USD $3.4 billion from 2014 to 2015.
 

“Consumers are shifting their dining preferences, especially in developed markets,” Elizabeth Friend, consumer foodservice strategy analyst at Euromonitor International, said. “Coffee shops, for example, saw a high increase in sales last year, which shows that the dining-out culture is continuing to evolve toward more modern, premium, casual and social experiences.” 

ANDROID APP INVENTORY VALUE INCREASES NEARLY 150 PERCENT YEAR-OVER-YEAR, AS ADVERTISERS SEEK TO TARGET INCREASINGLY VALUABLE ANDROID USERS


PubMatic’s Q1 2016 Quarterly Mobile Index report reveals over 50 percent year-over-year increases in average CPMs on both app and mobile web, as inventory quality improves across mobile platforms
 
REDWOOD CITY, Calif., April 20 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- PubMatic, the marketing automation software company for publishers, today announced that its Q1 2016 Quarterly Mobile Index (QMI) report found that advertisers are increasingly targeting Android users, as Android app inventory prices or CPMs (cost per thousand ad impressions) increased 147 percent, year-over-year. While Apple iOS app inventory prices are still higher on an absolute basis, iOS app CPMs rose only 62 percent year-over-year. This mobile advertising pricing data demonstrates that, globally, Android users represent an increasing value to advertisers.

PubMatic’s Q1 2016 QMI report also found that mobile app and mobile web CPMs grew 67 percent and 57 percent year-over-year, respectively, indicating increasing quality and value across both mobile platforms. The improvement in mobile web value is especially important to premium publishers that typically see the majority of their mobile traffic originating from mobile web (e.g. mobile browsers, such as Safari and Chrome). In the first quarter, 80 percent of monetized mobile inventory came from mobile web—with the remainder from mobile apps—which means that premium publishers are better monetizing on the bulk of their ad inventory. 

BEIJING INTERNATIONAL IMPORT FOOD EXPO 2016 TO SHOWCASE HIGHLY DIVERSIFIED FOODS AND DRINKS IN BEIJING

BEIJING, April 19 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The 5th Beijing International Import Food Expo 2016 (cipfe 2016), which will take place on 6th-8th May, 2016 at Beijing Exhibition Center, is expected to gather over 600 international food enterprises from more than 30 countries and regions. One of the great highlights will be the diversity of foods and drinks from all over the world.

The Asian exhibitors from Korea, Japan, Thailand and Malaysia will showcase various snack foods, including exotic Thai and Malaysian products such as dried fruits and meat -- durian, mango, coconut, cashew nut, tamarind, and even crocodile meat; as well as drinks, coffee and fish products.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26632

SUMITOMO CHEMICAL GROUP OF COMPANIES LAUNCHES PLANTATION SOLUTIONS PLATFORM AT CORBANA - ACORBAT BANANA CONGRESS

Global leader in integrated crop production solutions combines technologies from multiple companies, markets for unique plantation portfolio
 
MIAMI, April 19 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The Sumitomo Chemical (SCC) Group of Companies, a global leader in developing and commercializing biorational and conventional solutions for agriculture, public health, and forestry worldwide, announced today it has added a plantation-focused platform to its growing portfolio of innovative hybrid chemistries. The new SCC Plantation Solutions platform will be on display as part of the company's sponsorship of the CORBANA – ACORBAT Banana Congress at the Hyatt Regency, April 19-22.


KYOCERA TO BREAK GROUND ON THIRD KYOTO AYABE MANUFACTURING FACILITY

Company expands production of organic packages for microelectronic devices used in smartphones and tablet PCs

KYOTO, Japan, April 19 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Kyocera Corporation (NYSE:KYO)(TOKYO:6971) today announced that it will begin construction this week on a third manufacturing facility at its Kyoto Ayabe complex in Ayabe City, Kyoto Pref., Japan. The new facility will produce miniaturized, low-profile organic packages to house microelectronic devices used inside smartphones, tablet PCs and related mobile communications equipment.


POLYPLASTICS LAUNCHES NEW POM GRADES FOR FOOD CONTACT APPLICATIONS, EYES BUSINESS EXPANSION IN EUROPE AND AMERICAS

TOKYO, Apr. 18, 2016 /Kyodo JBN-AsiaNet/ --

Polyplastics Co., Ltd. announced on April 18 that it will implement the following strategies to further strengthen the company's presence in the markets of Europe and the Americas. Polyplastics began advancing into these markets in 2012 and has built a sales structure that comprises sales companies in the U.S., Germany and Mexico (*1). As a result, the volume of sales of POM (polyacetal) and PBT (polybutylene terephthalate) in these markets has become four times higher than that three years ago.

1. New grades of DURACON (R) POM have been developed that conform with regulations established by the European Union (EU) concerning food contact and drinking water supply applications. Polyplastics will begin the sale of a grade for injection molding (2 types) and a grade for solid-phase extrusion molding (1 type).

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26618

REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES ANNOUNCES 2017-18 ITINERARIES

SYDNEY, April 20 (Bernama) -- Luxury line unveils details for epic Northwest
Passage Voyage on Seven Seas Navigator, and 25th anniversary cruise on Seven
Seas Explorer

The most inclusive luxury cruise line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, has announced
a wealth of new itineraries as part of its 2017-18 Voyage Collection. Regent
Seven Seas Cruises'' all-inclusive experience includes free unlimited shore
excursions, fine wine and spirits, unlimited WiFi, prepaid gratuities, ground
transfers and luxury pre-cruise hotel stays.

SYDNEY, April 20 (Bernama) -- Luxury line unveils details for epic Northwest
Passage Voyage on Seven Seas Navigator, and 25th anniversary cruise on Seven
Seas Explorer

The most inclusive luxury cruise line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, has announced
a wealth of new itineraries as part of its 2017-18 Voyage Collection. Regent
Seven Seas Cruises'' all-inclusive experience includes free unlimited shore
excursions, fine wine and spirits, unlimited WiFi, prepaid gratuities, ground
transfers and luxury pre-cruise hotel stays.

http://bernamamobile.com/mrem/mnewsdetail_nEmbed.asp?hd=806900

Tuesday 19 April 2016

FIVE KEY TRENDS TO WATCH IN EMERGING MARKETS DURING ECONOMIC CRISIS

SANTIAGO, Chile, April 14 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Market research company Euromonitor International released today a new white paper “Emerging Markets During Crisis: Business Strategy in Times of Uncertainty”, highlighting key trends that offer organizations new growth opportunities in emerging markets during economic crisis.
 

In times of economic crisis, consumers buy products or experiences to disrupt the present and pretend they are in another context than the one causing hardships. According to the white paper, status triggers a set of emotions, such as pride and satisfaction, and consumers frequently buy objects to reflect these emotions and communicate them to their peers. 

Friday 15 April 2016

ASM-EXXONMOBIL LAUNCH NATIONAL SCIENCE CHALLENGE 2016

KUALA LUMPUR, April 14 (Bernama) -- The Academy of Sciences Malaysia (ASM) in partnership with the ExxonMobil Subsidiaries in Malaysia, have launched National Science Challenge (NSC) 2016 as part of their efforts to promote, nurture and enhance interest in science, technology and innovation amongst young minds. The competition is open to Form Four or 16 year old science stream Malaysian students from public, private and international schools. Three students are required to form a team, and schools may register any number of teams online via www.nsc.my
 
The grand prize is the Prime Minister’s Challenge Trophy and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the winning team to attend the Nobel Lectures and witness the prestigious international Nobel Prize Awards ceremony during a one-week study visit to Stockholm, Sweden accompanied by their mentor teacher. The first, second and third runner up winners will receive an invitation to participate in the Sakura Science Exchange Programme in Japan.




TORANOMON HILLS EVOLVING AS A GLOBAL BUSINESS HUB

-Mori Building unveils three redevelopment projects leading up to 2020 and beyond-
 

TOKYO, April 13 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Mori Building, a leading urban landscape developer, today announced an extensive slate of large-scale redevelopment projects involving the construction of three towers around the existing Toranomon Hills . The plans will transform the area into a more vibrant, globally accessible business hub that will entice individuals and enterprises from around the world to live, work and play in Toranomon.

Toranomon's accelerating transformation

Over the coming years, Mori Building will develop three new mixed-use towers tentatively called Toranomon Hills Business Tower, Toranomon Hills Residential Tower and Toranomon Hills Station Tower around the existing Toranomon Hills, which was opened in June 2014.

CHINA'S HUBSKY CHOOSES UNISYS TO PROVIDE IT CONSULTING AND SUPPORT SERVICES FOR NEW CLOUD-BASED DATA CENTER IN BEIJING

AsiaNet 64105
BEIJING, 15 Apr., 2016/Medianet International-AsiaNet/ --
 
Unisys advisory, design, implementation and management services to help HubSky establish new data center facility for China’s businesses

Unisys Corporation (NYSE: UIS) today announced that HubSky Network Company (HubSky) has appointed Unisys to provide data center planning, design,  implementation and management services for HubSky’s new cloud-based data center in Beijing. The data center is designed to enable HubSky to meet China’s growing business needs.

Thursday 14 April 2016

WEX EXPANDS GEOGRAPHIC COVERAGE FOR OIL CUSTOMERS IN ASIA

Leverages over 20 Years of Experience Processing Transactions and Managing Businesses’ Fully Outsourced Portfolios in North America

SINGAPORE, April 14 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- WEX Inc. (NYSE: WEX), a leading provider of corporate payment solutions, today announced several key milestones as part of its expanding fleet services in Asia, where it has been serving oil companies for nearly a decade.


TECHNINIER'S SKY INVASION RAISES GAMING STAKES FOR U MOBILE CUSTOMERS WITH RM100,000 WORTH OF PRIZES UP FOR GRABS

KUALA LUMPUR, April 12 (Bernama) -- Techninier Sdn Bhd, Malaysia’s leading mobile social gaming platform provider continues to bring its state of the art cross-platform mobile games to the masses. As part of its on-going efforts to reach mobile gamers across the country, Techninier has partnered with U Mobile Sdn Bhd to hold a mobile game tournament exclusively for U Mobile customers through its own built game named ’Sky Invasion’.  

U Mobile subscribers have the privilege to participate in the ’Sky Invasion’ mobile game tournament for FREE and they also stand the chance to win prizes worth RM100,000 including the grand prize, a brand new Kia Picanto 1.2 AT. Other prizes up for grabs include motorcycles, electronics and vouchers. Other notable prizes include HTC’s latest mobile phones as HTC Malaysia is also a key collaborator of this exclusive U Mobile Sky Invasion tournament.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26581

MITSUI CHEMICALS: EXPANSION OF HIGH PERFORMANCE NONWOVEN FACILITIES

Further Strengthening Hygienic Material Business to Meet Growing Demand
 

TOKYO, April 13 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Mitsui Chemicals, Inc. (TOKYO:4183; President & CEO: Tsutomu Tannowa) will grow high performance nonwoven facilities at their Nagoya works as follows, to meet the increasing need moving forward for premium diapers. 

Wednesday 13 April 2016

XAXIS AND PLISTA LAUNCH AD INDUSTRY'S MOST COMPREHENSIVE PROGRAMMATIC NATIVE PLATFORM; NICOLAS BIDON NAMED PLISTA GLOBAL CEO

plista is First to Provide Single Source Programmatic Solution for Buying Native Ads across In-Feed, Outstream Video, Recommendation Widgets and In-Ad Formats
 
LONDON, April 12 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Xaxis, the world’s largest programmatic media and audience platform, and native ad specialist plista, which is now part of the Xaxis portfolio, announced today the launch of the world’s most comprehensive programmatic platform for native advertising. The new offering is the first to bring the personalisation benefits of audience data to a broad portfolio of native formats, creating a single source programmatic solution for native ads.


ARGOSY OPENS NEW FACILITY TO EXPAND AEROSPACE MATERIAL MANUFACTURING

NEW YORK, April 12 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Argosy International Inc., the leading supplier of advanced composites and related materials to the Asia Pacific aerospace industry, has started construction of their new 2,300 square-meter manufacturing facility located at No. 33, Jing 3rd Road, Wuqi District, Taichung City, Taiwan (R.O.C.).
 
The new facility is located in the Taichung Duty Free Zone and will be qualified to AS9100. It includes a clean room, cutting table, and freezer to process cut-to-shape composite kits. The configuration of the new space will allow the company to provide Composite Aerospace Manufacturers in the Asia Pacific region with composite kitted solutions.


Tuesday 12 April 2016

15 LUCKY APPLICANTS TO BE OFFERED CHANCE TO LEARN JAPANESE CUISINE IN ENGLISH AT JAPAN CAMPUS OF 'LE CORDON BLEU' WITH 120 YEARS OF EDUCATIONAL EXPERTISE

TOKYO, Apr. 11, 2016 /Kyodo JBN-AsiaNet/ --

- Under "Japanese Cuisine Bursary Program" -

Le Cordon Bleu Japan is inviting applicants for a program to learn Japanese cuisine in English at the culinary Institute. It collaborates on a special 8-month bursary program, developed under a project initiated by the Organization for Fostering Human Resources for the Promotion of Japanese Cuisine & Food Culture, targeted for culinary school graduates or industry professionals looking to broaden their culinary horizons.


BIOTECH/GM CROPS PLANTED ON TWO BILLION HECTARES FROM 1996 TO 2015

Farmers Reap More Than US$150 Billion from Advances in Biotech Crops over 20 Years
 
BEIJING, April 13 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Today, the International Service for the Acquisition of Agri-Biotech Applications (ISAAA) released its annual report detailing the adoption of biotech crops, “20th Anniversary of the Global Commercialization of Biotech Crops (1996-2015) and Biotech Crop Highlights in 2015,” showcasing the global increase in biotech hectarage from 1.7 million hectares in 1996 to 179.7 million hectares in 2015. This 100-fold increase in just 20 years makes biotechnology the fastest adopted crop technology in recent times, reflecting farmer satisfaction with biotech crops.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26588

HERBALIFE'S NUTRITION AT WORK SURVEY REVEALS MAJORITY OF ASIA-PACIFIC'S WORKFORCE LEAD LARGELY SEDENTARY LIFESTYLES, PUTTING THEM AT RISK OF OBESITY

Fifth Herbalife Asia-Pacific Wellness Tour seeks to address health issues associated with sedentary lifestyles, and deepen practical understanding on the benefits of a healthy, active life

HONG KONG, April 11 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Herbalife, a global nutrition company (NYSE: HLF), today released the findings from the new Nutrition At Work Survey, which revealed that the majority of Asia-Pacific's workforce lead largely sedentary lifestyles, putting them at risk of obesity. The Survey¹, which was designed to understand the lifestyle habits and attitudes of Asia Pacific's modern workforce, was conducted in March with 5,500 full-time workers in 11 Asia-Pacific markets.

According to the survey findings, nine out of 10 workers (85 percent) spend at least six hours a day sitting at their desk, with five out of 10 eating lunch at their work desk two to five times per week. Indonesia had the highest number of workers eating at their desks, with 71 percent eating lunch at their desk two to five times per week. 
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26574

EASTSPRING INVESTMENTS ANNOUNCES NEW CEO FOR MALAYSIA BUSINESS

KUALA LUMPUR, April 11 (Bernama) -- Eastspring Investments ("Eastspring"), the US$131 billion Asian investment management arm of Prudential plc, and one of Asia's largest investment managers, announced today that Mr Raymond Tang has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Eastspring Investments Berhad Malaysia. Mr Tang is an industry veteran, having had a successful career leading investment and distribution functions for major asset managers in Malaysia.

In this role, Mr Tang will be responsible for growing Eastspring's business in Malaysia and further developing relationships with its clients.
http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26578

Monday 11 April 2016

A.M. BEST REVISES OUTLOOK TO STABLE FOR NEW ZEALAND LOCAL GOVERNMENT INSURANCE CORPORATION LIMITED

SINGAPORE, April 11 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- A.M. Best has revised the outlooks to stable from negative and affirmed the financial strength rating (FSR) of B+ (Good) and the issuer credit rating (ICR) of “bbb-” of New Zealand Local Government Insurance Corporation Limited (New Zealand), trading as Civic Assurance (Civic).
 
The revised outlooks for the FSR and ICR mainly reflect Civic’s substantial reduction of reinsurance counterparty risk following the settlement of Canterbury earthquake claims between Christchurch City Council, Civic and its panel of reinsurers.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26569

NEWLINE GROUP ANNOUNCES EXECUTIVE APPOINTMENTS IN ASIA

LONDON, April 11 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Newline Group announced new appointments to its leadership team based in Singapore. Rachel Flynn has been named the Principal Officer for Newline Asia and Susan Chew has been appointed Chief Underwriting Officer.
 
Ms. Flynn joined Newline Group in 2014 as Claims Manager and Underwriting Counsel. In this new position she is now responsible for Newline’s operations in Singapore as well as overseeing local regulatory issues. Ms. Chew has been with Newline since the Singapore office was first established in 2007. As Chief Underwriting Officer, she will broaden her focus from general liability and medical malpractice to now include financial lines while also directing the overall underwriting strategy for Newline within Asia.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26573

​MACH7 TECHNOLOGIES AND 3D MEDICAL COMPLETE MERGER

Focus on enterprise imaging strategy expands as technology innovators partner to deliver a clearer picture of the patient, help build healthier communities and empower clinical ecosystems globally.
 
BURLINGTON, Vt., April 11 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Mach7 Technologies and 3D Medical (ASX:3DM) today announced the completion of their merger. The combined company will bring advanced medical image management solutions to customers across five continents. Mach7 Technologies Limited begins trading on the Australian Stock Exchange under the symbol M7T.
 
Mach7 is a global provider of enterprise image management systems that are used at hundreds of healthcare sites, including many of the world’s leading teaching hospitals, research institutions and integrated healthcare delivery networks such as Penn Medicine (University of Pennsylvania Health System), Raffles Hospital and Massachusetts General Hospital.

http://mrem.bernama.com/viewsm.php?idm=26570

Saturday 9 April 2016

ANAPLAN LAUNCHES GLOBAL COMPENSATION FOR BANKING APP TO PROVIDE FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS WITH AN AGILE BONUS MODELLING PLATFORM

App provides improved transparency allowing organizations to easily meet regulatory requirements

SAN FRANCISCO, April 8 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Anaplan, the enterprise planning cloud company, today launched its Global Compensation for Banking app that provides financial institutions with a scalable and agile bonus planning and modelling platform. This secure, multi-dimensional app enables Reward teams to allocate a business’s total bonus pool across multiple organization levels. With full transparency over compensation models, firms can run “what if” scenarios, deliver sophisticated bonus deferral calculations down to employee level, and analyze results in real time.


Friday 8 April 2016

GATWICK AIRPORT CHOOSES ANAPLAN TO OPTIMISE FORECASTING FOR AN EXPECTED 41 MILLION PASSENGERS

Largest single runway airport in the world is now able to simulate capacity fluctuations in real time

SAN FRANCISCO, April 7 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Gatwick, the world’s largest single runway airport, has implemented Anaplan to harness greater speed and accuracy across its entire passenger forecasting operations. With the introduction of the Anaplan platform, teams across the business now have access to one source of passenger information and the ability to simulate multiple future scenarios.


KER1M WANTS TIGHTER SEAT BELT ENFORCEMENT

PUTRAJAYA, April 7 (Bernama) -- 1Malaysia People's Welfare Association (KER1M) wants tighter seat belt enforcement to reduce risk of death to motorists.

KER1M chairman Datuk Ranjith Raja said this was because public awareness about the risks of driving without seat belts was still at a low level.

"The study shows that the level of awareness, attitude and compliance with the law in the installation of seat belts for front and rear seat passengers is still not satisfactory," he said in a statement here Thursday.

He said KER1M has held discussions with the relevant agencies, including the Road Transport Department (RTD) and have made recommendations to ensure the strict enforcement of seat belt laws, besides making the wearing of seat belts for rear seat passengers compulsory.

"The driver must ensure that each passenger in the vehicle wears the seat belt before travelling. Parents should also provide special children's seat and apply the function button for the child safety lock to avoid the risk of death in case of an accident," he said.

Ranjith said KER1M planned to hold courses and road safety campaigns so that the driver is always in an alert state, following the guidelines, reference tips and safety tips to avoid negligence.

-- BERNAMA


Thursday 7 April 2016

LARGE-SCALE OSAKA CITIZENS' MARATHON TO ACCEPT ENTRY APPLICATIONS FROM APRIL 8

OSAKA, Japan, Apr. 6, 2016 /Kyodo JBN-AsiaNet/ --
 
Osaka Marathon's organizing committee announced on April 6 that it will start accepting applications at 10 a.m. on April 8, for running in the 6th Osaka Marathon scheduled for Sunday, October 30, 2016. 
 
The Osaka Marathon is the largest of that kind in Japan, with about 32,000 runners, from Japan and abroad, making a round of scenic places including the Osaka Castle and Dotonbori and Midosuji avenues, with over 1.3 million people cheering from the roadside. Visitors to Osaka will be treated to not only the famous marathon race but also its soul food in which local folks show a rather excessive indulgence, shopping centers, and world-class amusement facilities only available in Osaka. 


Wednesday 6 April 2016

EKSO GT™ ROBOTIC EXOSKELETON CLEARED BY FDA FOR USE WITH STROKE AND SPINAL CORD INJURY PATIENTS

First robotic exoskeleton cleared for use with stroke and spinal cord injury levels to C7

RICHMOND, Calif., April 5 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Ekso Bionics Holdings, Inc. (OTCQB:EKSO), a robotic exoskeleton company, today announced that it has received clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to market its Ekso GT robotic exoskeleton for use in the treatment of individuals with hemiplegia due to stroke, individuals with spinal cord injuries at levels T4 to L5, and individuals with spinal cord injuries at levels of T3 to C7 (ASIA D), in accordance with device’s labeling. The Ekso GT is the first exoskeleton cleared by the FDA for use with stroke patients.  


CUSCAL LIMITED SELECTS FISERV TO ENABLE DELIVERY OF AUTOMATED CASH AND ATM NETWORK MANAGEMENT FOR FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS

SINGAPORE & BROOKFIELD, Wis., April 5 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Fiserv, Inc. (NASDAQ: FISV), a leading global provider of financial services technology solutions, today announced that Cuscal Limited, a leading provider of end-to-end payments solutions in Australia, has chosen Integrated Currency Manager, Device Manager and Terminal Connect from Fiserv. The new solutions will enable Cuscal to extend its range of services to include more automated, integrated cash and ATM network management capabilities.
 
Cuscal provides payments solutions to over 100 clients from a range of industries including financial services, airlines, fintech and retail. Its product range includes card and acquiring products, mobile payments, fraud prevention, EFT switching and direct entry. Cuscal also owns and operates the rediATM network (one of Australia’s largest ATM networks) and provides switching and acquiring services for around one-third of Australia’s ATMs.


UK PRIVATE INVESTOR TAKES US$20 MILLION STAKE IN KACIFIC

Additional US$2.3 million will be raised from Australian tech investors

SINGAPORE, April 5 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- Kacific Broadband Satellites has agreed terms on funding of US$20 million from a United Kingdom-based family office with a particular focus on infrastructure investments. Arranged by Kacific’s advisor, Caniwi Capital, the placement is part of Kacific’s Series A round of capital raising, and is a major step for the company towards the financial close of its project, which will bring high speed broadband satellite services to remote and isolated areas of the Pacific and South East Asia.


Saturday 2 April 2016

SALFORD ROYAL NHS FOUNDATION TRUST SELECTS ALLSCRIPTS POPULATION HEALTH SOLUTION TO DELIVER INTEGRATED CARE

First United Kingdom client to deploy dbMotionTM Solution

CHICAGO, April 1 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In March 2016, Salford Royal NHS Foundation Trust expanded its partnership with Allscripts by selecting CareInMotionTM, Allscripts population health management platform, to help make the transition to a new model of integrated care. Salford Royal is the first United Kingdom client to select CareInMotion’s dbMotion, an industry-leading data connectivity and harmonization solution that helps healthcare organizations meaningfully share data across disparate systems within clinicians’ workflows. CareInMotion is a comprehensive, adaptable framework that enables healthcare organizations to address their specific population health priorities, such as predictive analytics, care coordination and patient engagement.