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Tag: asia

  • Zong 4G’s Nationwide Data Superiority

    Zong 4G’s Nationwide Data Superiority

    Pakistan’s Zong 4G is the first telecom operator in the country to enhance its world class network with the latest data technology and coverage features. With a rapid roll out of over a thousand cell sites in the past year alone and over 1,000 more sites to be set up by end of the year; Zong’s 4G footprint is and will continue to be twice as large compared to any other operator in the country. All customers with compatible devices can connect to the internet more quickly, more reliably and in more places than ever before. The new and improved network will also help businesses enhance productivity by enabling employees to work where they want to, whenever they want to.

    The upgraded 4G network will bring even faster internet speeds to customers; whilst the overall network improvements across the nation will ensure that Zong 4G’s subscribers enjoy stronger outdoor and indoor coverage. As a result, local businesses will also be able to react faster to the needs of customers and introduce remote working practices for staff which can help reduce costs and increase productivity.

    Zong 4G’s recent successful campaign associated with the patriotic blockbuster film “Parwaaz Hai Junoon” was also a reflection of what the brand intends to provide its patrons i.e. unbreakable coverage and unstoppable speed. As F-16 has always been the symbol of speed and agility; Zong 4G linked its 4G speeds with those of the F-16 and conveyed a strong message to everyone that whenever it comes to speed, Zong 4G is and will be irreplaceable. The campaign has been very successful with audience whose belief in Zong 4G has been further strengthened as Pakistan’s No.1 Data Network.

    Zong 4G has invested billions of USD in its network and services since its entry into the Pakistani market. With ever increasing investment on infrastructure and data services from China Mobile, Zong 4G will continue to cement its position as the true leader of data in network performance and coverage.

    Zong 4G is firmly focused on bringing world-class telecommunications and digital services to Pakistan and its people. Zong’s continued investments in infrastructure have produced a first-rate network and supported a decade long track-record of industry-defining innovation. Zong 4G aims to provide the very best network experience possible, predicated on super-fast internet speeds that connect customers to the people and things that matter to them the most. With largest 4G subscriber base, carrying the highest amount of data traffic and with a growing focus on data services, Zong 4G is steadily building towards an incredibly exciting and new future.

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  • NEC launches Open Innovation Centre in Singapore

    NEC launches Open Innovation Centre in Singapore

    NEC Corporation announced the opening of the NEC Open Innovation Centre (OIC) in Singapore which forms a part of the wider NEC innovation eco-system, and reaffirms NEC’s commitment to foster open innovation and partnerships with private and public sectors.

    Supported by the Singapore Economic Development Board (EDB), the OIC is part of NEC’s $100 million investment over the five years from 2017 in research and innovation in the Asia Pacific region.

    The Centre, operated by Global Safety Division, is NEC’s first of its kind facility outside Japan which infuses market-leading NEC technology and a deep partner ecosystem to offer cutting edge solutions in areas such as public safety, transportation and aviation.

    The Centre provides a platform where solutions can be translated into realistic and relatable use cases. It houses various revolutionary thematic zones which allow an immersive experience in AI and biometric solutions within the context of daily life. For example in the “home” zone, visitors will be shown how our face can be utilized as a powerful and trusted digital identity to securely access government and commercial services with NEC’s Trusted Digital Identity solution.

    NEC is also at the forefront of advanced ICT solutions for safety, security and efficiency in air travel. With more people flying today as well as heightened security threats, passengers are asked to go through more checks and screenings. All this leads to earnest needs of frictionless travel experience.

    NEC One ID-Single token technology takes travel experience to new heights by providing integrated identity management across the travel process that allows passengers to authenticate their identity online or in person for all stakeholders, ensuring an efficient flow within the airport.

    “We are delighted that NEC has chosen Singapore to establish its first Open Innovation Centre outside of Japan. Singapore’s strong base of enterprises, partners and digital talent offer NEC an ideal location to forge collaborations and translate its strong biometric identification technology into new applications for public safety and commercial domains for Singapore and beyond,” said Ms. Lily Phua, Director of New Businesses, EDB.

    Mr Vinoop Goel, Regional Director in Asia-Pacific from International Air Transport Association (IATA), comments, “With the number of travelers expected to double in 20 years time, the use of technology will be critical for increasing passenger throughput in the existing airport terminals. NEC’s OIC is a good showcase of the technologies that can make air travel more efficient, including IATA’s OneID initiative, and we look forward to implementations of these technologies to improve the passenger experience and enhance the efficiency of airline and airport operations.”

    “The vision of the Open Innovation Centre is to orchestrate a smart and safer city in collaboration with governments and businesses. With a digitally disruptive team at the heart of OIC’s operations, new ideas of approaching public safety can be prototyped and launched within the centre and further deployed in global markets. This is only possible with strong support from our industry partners who are already on board the OIC ecosystem,” said Mr Tan Boon Chin, Managing Director, Global Safety Division, NEC Corporation. “We believe that a trusted digital identity based on biometrics such as facial recognition technology can transform businesses so as to provide secure and frictionless experience across home, city and aviation.”

    NEC has been developing biometric identification technologies for more than 40 years, and systems using NEC’s Bio-IDiom biometrics have been introduced through more than 700 systems in 70 countries and regions around the world. Moreover, earlier this year, NEC’s iris recognition was named the world’s most accurate by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology, which has also recently named NEC’s face recognition and fingerprint recognition technologies as the most accurate.

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  • Alcis Sports To Partner Haryana Steelers

    Alcis Sports To Partner Haryana Steelers

    Alcis Sports, an Indian sportswear brand, announced their association with Haryana Steelers for the sixth season of Pro Kabaddi League that will start from 5th October. Alcis Sports will provide technologically advanced sportswear to Haryana Steelers to enhance their comfort and performance.

    Alcis Sports is a homegrown Indian sportswear brand which is at par with any international brand in terms of quality and also is in sync with Indian sensibilities. Alcis Sports prides itself for being the first Indian brand to have the capability and production ability to manufacture technologically advanced sportswear to enhance the performance of the wearer, bringing the best of style, comfort and cost; backed by great innovation and technology.

    In the past, Alcis Sports has been the trusted kit partner for several high profile sporting events and teams across sports such as cricket, football, kabaddi, running etc. Alcis Sports has been the licensed apparel merchandise partner in India for both FIFA U-17 World Cup India 2017 and the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia. Alcis Sports was also the Official Kit Partner of the 2018 Kabaddi Dubai Masters held in Dubai and recently partnered with Inspire Institute of Sports (IIS).

    Roshan Baid, Managing Director, Alcis Sports, said “Its disheartening to see great Indian sportsmen wear clothes made by foreign brands, we being the largest manufacturer and exporter of Sportswear in India feel proud to be supplying international quality sportswear to Indian sportsmen. These clothes are designed keeping in mind Indian weather conditions and body types. They are infused with the latest technologies and I am sure will help our sportsmen & sportswomen preform better.”

    He further added, , “We are glad to be associated with Harynana Steelers for the sixth edition Pro Kabaddi League. Kabaddi being an indigenous sport is extremely close to our hearts and it is heartening to see it’s growing popularity in the last couple of years. We were the official kit partner for 2018 Kabaddi Dubai Masters and our products were highly appreciated internationally.”

    Ravish Nanda, Director, Alcis Sports, said, “We have done a lot of research in making the playing kit for the players. The player Jersey and shorts are made out of very high stretch fabric to give comfort to the players and it is loaded with technology to enhance their performance. Even the stitching thread used has innovative performance stretch for high extension. It has high initial modulus which minimise the risk of seam extension failure.”

    The entire apparel range for the Haryna Steelers features some of the most advance garment technology and is highly stretchable. Stylish, easy and comfortable to wear, they are equipped with features such as Dry-Tech — which doesn’t hold sweat and moisture for long, and are made with Anti-Microbial, Anti-Odour and Anti-Static finishes.

  • DFS in exclusive launch of latest Michael Kors capsule collection

    DFS in exclusive launch of latest Michael Kors capsule collection

    DFS Group, the world’s leading luxury travel retailer, is excited to announce the launch of an exclusive Michael Kors capsule collection available only in DFS and T Galleria by DFS stores this October. Inspired by the jet-set lifestyle and designer Michael Kor’s take on luxury, the exclusive DFS x Michael Kors collection features thirteen handbags, three wallets, a watch with three straps and a pair of chic sunglasses.

    Building upon a history of successful collaborations, this capsule marks the third exclusive collection Michael Kors has launched with DFS Group. Starring influential Chinese actress Yang Mi and photographed by renowned Chinese photographer Chen Man, the campaign spotlights the actress and fashion icon showcasing the limited-edition styles on the chic streets of Shanghai.

    The DFS x Michael Kors collection includes the Whitney Large Shoulder Bag with quilted stitching and a detachable crossbody strap, the Whitney Medium Backback with sleek push-lock gunmetal hardware and chain-trimmed shoulder straps, the Benning Medium Messenger Satchel in two toned leather with polished hardware, as well as the Lauryn Three-Hand Watch Set with a pearlescent dial and two additional straps and classic rounded Aviator Sunglasses. The DFS x Michael Kors collection is available in an array of smooth and metallic jewel tones and prices range from USD$88 – USD$378.

    The exclusive DFS x Michael Kors collection will be available in 19 DFS and T Galleria stores across 13 counties beginning October 1 and offered while supplies last.

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  • Cashmaster Launches QR-Connect in Asia Pacific

    Cashmaster Launches QR-Connect in Asia Pacific

    Cashmaster Asia announced the Introduction of Cashmaster QR-Connect, a QR code application providing enhanced software functionality for its Cashmaster One range of count-by-weight cash counting devices that offers an innovative, simple solution to integrating with back office or POS systems.

    When installed, count data is presented as a QR code on the display of the Cashmaster One device that can be scanned by a standard POS scanner or the camera of a mobile/tablet device. The count data is instantly transferred to the POS or other system. The QR code avoids the need for USB or ethernet cable connectivity between the POS and the Cashmaster Cash counter – effectively providing wireless transfer of the cash count (including vouchers/coupons in addition to notes and coins) as well as other information for process traceability, such as cashier ID and till ID.

    In a connected world, a deeper level of integration and seamless transfer of data to the POS is a growing requirement for Cashmaster’s clients. Its customers are looking to remove multiple levels of manual processing of data across their businesses in order to: reduce opportunities for errors; speed up the processing of data; give more real-time information that businesses can use to make better, faster decisions; and provide greater accuracy and accountability to their enterprises. Integration can be seen also as a key component in a loss prevention strategy.

    No matter the level of operation, these solutions provide data in a format that can be easily digested by cash management and analytics programs for big, medium or small companies. As competition increases, the rewards of deploying Cashmaster One and Cashmaster QRConnect can show directly in bottom line improvements.

    Gordon McKie, Group CEO of Cashmaster, commented, “Companies are under intense pressure to maximise income and improve efficiencies, while at the same time motivating staff. It’s a complex dynamic that Cashmaster understands; it has also been a powerful imperative for us in designing the intuitive technology for cash management that helps clients achieve those goals.

    “Solutions can be tailored to customers’ specific needs, from simple off-the-shelf tools requiring minimal customer resources to implement, to working with customers’ IT teams in providing more complex solutions. With a proven quick return on the initial investment to boot.”

  • Deliveroo To Give Free Insurance to Riders in HK

    Deliveroo To Give Free Insurance to Riders in HK

    Deliveroo announced a completely free, first-of-its-kind insurance package for all on-demand self-employed Deliveroo riders in Hong Kong and worldwide. Starting from October, Deliveroo riders will be able to claim costs if unable to work as a result of an on-the-job injury. This move makes Deliveroo a leader in providing on-demand riders with the flexible work they value and the security they deserve.

    Deliveroo has worked with leading global insurers to tailor policies which meet the needs of riders. In Hong Kong, all Deliveroo riders will be automatically enrolled onto a personal injury policy from leading insurance provider Marsh; whether on bicycles, scooters or making deliveries by foot. This will apply to all riders whilst they are online and logged in to the Deliveroo app, including up to one hour after logging off.

    The accident and injury cover is wide ranging, with measures including:

    • HK$77,000 for accidental medical expenses
    • HK$385 for each night in hospital
    • Up to HK$3,850 per week for temporary incapacity
    • Loss of sight, hearing, speech or limbs due to accidents are covered
    • HK$346,500 for accidental death/permanent disablement

    Brian Lo, General Manager Deliveroo Hong Kong, said: “Riders are at the heart of our business and this new industry-leading insurance package is hugely important for all those who ride with Deliveroo. Riders deserve security while they’re out on the road. We want to make sure that riders are protected in case anything goes wrong while they are working, and that’s why we are so delighted to be announcing this important package. Deliveroo riders are heroes and we want to give something back. We are growing quickly and hope more and more people will choose to work with us.”

    Qasim Khan, a rider with Deliveroo, said, “As a rider who loves working at Deliveroo, I am always worried about my safety when I’m out and about to do deliveries. The accident and injury insurance gives riders a peace mind. We will feel more safe when we are working on road. Most importantly, our families will also feel safe about us being part of this company!”

     

    The move to offer free insurance to riders comes as Deliveroo reveals the company’s rapid growth in Hong Kong over the first half of 2018. Deliveroo’s total number of riders in Hong Kong is 2,000, which has more than doubled in six months. The business expects this to grow to 2,800 by the end of 2018. Deliveroo has also significantly increased its number of partnering restaurants by nearly 50% in six months, to 3,500. Restaurants which use Deliveroo see their revenue boosted by up to 25% and dinner orders by 20%, in the past quarter, enabling more opportunities for business development and new hires.

    With further expansion set to continue in the months ahead, Deliveroo is now looking for more riders and walkers to join the company and enjoy its well-paid, secure, flexible work that can be combined with other responsibilities such as studying. The free and automatic insurance coverage will be starting in October. Current riders and walkers who successfully refer someone new to Deliveroo in Hong Kong will receive up to HK$2,500.

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  • Funan set to open Singapore’s first O&O shopping mall ahead of schedule in 2Q 2019

    Funan set to open Singapore’s first O&O shopping mall ahead of schedule in 2Q 2019

    Funan is racing ahead to open Singapore’s first online-andoffline (O&O) shopping mall integrating online, offline, data and logistics aimed at empowering retailers’ omnichannel strategy and transforming the customer experience. The retail as well as its office components are now slated to open in 2Q 2019, instead of the earlier announced 3Q 2019. The opening of lyf Funan Singapore, a coliving serviced residence component within Funan, managed by The Ascott Limited, has also been brought forward from 2020 to 4Q 2019.

    Owned by CapitaLand Mall Trust and managed by CapitaLand Retail, Funan celebrated its structural completion ahead of schedule. The topping out ceremony held at Funan Showsuite was officiated by Guest of Honour Mr Heng Swee Keat, Singapore’s Minister for Finance. From groundbreaking to structural completion, Funan took about 19 months. To date, 72% of the overall construction has already been completed.

    Mr Lee Chee Koon, President & Group CEO of CapitaLand Group, said: “To succeed in tomorrow’s economy, all players must find a way for the physical and digital realms to coexist. While the current market share of online sales is small, its pace of growth will only speed up as tomorrow’s consumers enter the market. Brick-and-mortar businesses must thus go beyond passively selling products and services, to generating quality retail experiences and emotional connections that are ‘on-brand’ with consumers. Against this backdrop, CapitaLand is committed to help our current and future tenants stay ahead of the curve. We have conceived Funan to embrace new opportunities, with a focus on gathering and building a young and vibrant community by integrating an experiential mall with dynamic coworking and coliving spaces. This starts with top quality building design and space planning, complemented by the right mix of tenants and partners who can breathe life into the building. A digital layer of techenabled customer experience further enriches Funan’s offerings.”

    Mr Lee added: “As Singapore’s largest mall owner and manager, CapitaLand knows that past success is no guarantee of future success. We are taking a close examination of our retail portfolio, in Singapore and abroad, to identify areas for reinvention. The location and catchment of Funan make it the ideal test bed for an O&O mall, where tomorrow’s consumers can shop, sweat, work, bond, live and play. Funan demonstrates CapitaLand’s commitment to reinvention, to always retain our market leadership. As ecommerce becomes a reality, CapitaLand will continue to ensure that the real estate we develop is conducive and complementary to tomorrow’s consumers and economy.”

    Mr Tony Tan, CEO of CapitaLand Mall Trust Management Limited, said: “Including leases signed and in advanced negotiations, the leasing for Funan’s retail and office components has already reached 70% and 60% respectively. Such early commitment of a strong slate of partners from diverse fields, many of whom CapitaLand is working with for the first time, marks a very encouraging start for Funan’s mandate to inspire innovation and create a unique lifestyle proposition for digitally savvy customers in an experience economy. What is even more heartening is that many of these partners have committed to push the boundaries by experimenting with new-to-market experiences at Funan. The significant interest in Funan points to the continued market demand for centrally-located and well-designed retail spaces that enjoy inherent shopper traffic as part of a quality integrated development.”

    At the topping out event, Minister Heng Swee Keat was given a preview of a range of digital innovations coming up at Funan. These include a smart interactive directory that uses facial recognition to provide shoppers with customised recommendations, video analytics that studies shopper traffic and crowd density and an all-in-one app for Ascott’s lyf coliving serviced residence – the first app by a serviced residence company that will allow social networking and room booking; and will also serve as a mobile key. CapitaLand also showcased its groupwide innovations as part of its digitalisation strategy, including a merchant dashboard that enables retailers to tap consumer insights generated by CapitaLand’s CapitaStar loyalty programme and eCapitaVoucher, the digital version of CapitaVoucher – Singapore’s most popular shopping mall voucher – launching this November.

    Funan’s innovation journey has scored several “firsts” in Singapore. These include the first to deploy automated guided vehicles to provide shoppers with a hands-free shopping experience and the first to utilise a robotic arm for its twenty-four-hour drive-through click-and-collect service. As part of Funan’s tech-enabled user experience, building users can also expect conveniences such as app-based booking of facilities within the development, video-based smart carparking facilities and facial recognition turnstiles at its office towers.

    Adopting smart construction technologies

    Despite challenges such as a tight site with limited access, time savings are achieved through innovation in construction methods, and the choice of building materials and equipment to avoid redundancies and inefficiencies in Funan’s construction process. These include applying Virtual Design and Construction at the onset, and adopting a top-down construction method, which allows for the building’s basement and superstructure to be built concurrently. Precast concrete structural building components are also used to further reduce the construction time.

    In addition, the construction of the underpass connecting Funan and City Hall MRT station will deploy the Rectangular Tunnel Boring Machine as it saves time and manpower, and minimises traffic disruption. The underpass is targeted for completion in 2021.

    Upcoming experiential offerings at Funan

    As Singapore’s first commercial development to allow cycling through the building at Level 1, Funan will bring to life cycling amenities and end-of-trip facilities such as cafés and shower facilities. English premium folding bike brand Brompton Bicycle has chosen Funan to be the location of its first flagship store in Singapore. Cycling enthusiasts can take the bikes out for a spin along the cycling lane within Funan before deciding on their purchase.

    Strengthening the tech cluster that already comprises local consumer electronic goods stalwarts Newstead Technologies, AddOn Systems and T K Foto, well-established homegrown gaming store GamePro will be hosting eSports tournaments in a dedicated eSports zone at Funan. Aspiring chefs can whip out their best dishes at a new concept by ABC Cooking Studio, which allows members to conduct their own classes and collaborate with others. On Level 7, diners can look forward to a farm-to-table dining experience by Spa Esprit Group. Edible Garden City will be operating Funan’s rooftop urban farm, with plans to host workshops for the community.

    Ark Futsal has committed to operate the only futsal court in the CBD at Funan, complementing the offerings from Climb Central, the largest rock-climbing facility in the CBD. These new names will synergise with and complement the previously announced tenants including Golden Village cineplex, Kopitiam foodcourt, W!ld Rice theatre and flagship of Carrie K. and Keepers.

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  • Tmall and L’Oréal China Deepen Partnership

    Tmall and L’Oréal China Deepen Partnership

    Alibaba Group’s Tmall, and L’Oréal China said today they’ll work closely together to find new ways for the beauty group to tap into the Chinese market, leveraging data-driven consumer analytics and a new value chain that better connects consumers, products and channels.

    Tmall Innovation Center (TMIC), the retail innovation arm of Tmall, will work closely with L’Oréal China to catalyze the consumer-to-business (C2B) approach, based on insights and trends generated from the 600 million-plus customer base across Alibaba’s marketplaces.

    “We have been very happy to ride the wave of the digital transformation together with Alibaba Group’s Tmall. As the number-one beauty company in the China market, L’Oréal China will continue to deepen collaboration with innovation partners locally to unleash the value of data insights and create value for our consumers,” said Stéphane Rinderknech, CEO of L’Oréal China. “With our ‘Beauty for All’ mission and consumer centric strategy, our ultimate goal is to bring personalized products, services and experiences to each and every Chinese consumer.”

    The partnership’s first initiative will focus on China’s male-grooming industry. According to a white paper co-developed by TMIC and L’Oréal China Consumer Intelligence Team, online sales of men’s grooming products have increased by more than 50% in each of the past two years. In the past year, 62% of the male consumer pool between the ages of 15 and 50 said they used male-specific facial skincare products, showing a massive addressable market for male grooming products.

    “With Tmall’s unparalleled customer insight, we are committed to helping L’Oréal China offer its customers best-in-class personalized product experiences. Tmall has transformed product development in every area, from product innovation and brand building to consumer assets and channel management. We help brands discover new demand and markets as well as offer completely new customer experiences,” said Jet Jing, President of Tmall.

    TMIC and L’Oréal China precisely identify five profile groups of customers with specific preferences, such as those who go for men-only personal care products; those who need a full range of products and those only seeking face, hair and basic products.

    Based on the findings of the white paper, L’Oréal China and Tmall will co-host a consumer-oriented marketing campaign, “Super U Carnival,” both online and offline from September 25-30. Male consumers will be able to discover suitable grooming products with the help of data insights. At a pop-up store in Hangzhou, five immersive show rooms are tailored to customers’ unique styles and preferences.

    L’Oreal China is one of the international groups that has benefited from these consumer insights generated by TMIC. Established in April 2017, TMIC’s mission is to

    help brands explore new ways to tap into the Chinese market by using precise market analysis, real-time consumer insights and test models. Including L’Oreal China, TMIC has already collaborated with 62 companies.

    Earlier this week, L’Oréal China launched House99 flagship store on Tmall, together with David Beckham, the founder of House99. A full range of high-end male grooming products, including skin and body care, hair and shaving products, are now available on House 99’s Tmall store.

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  • New crypto-exchange lets you convert Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia currencies

    New crypto-exchange lets you convert Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia currencies

    Singapore-based fiat-crypto exchange EurekaPro, led by a team consisting of Junus Eu, Douglas Gan and Lau Kin-Wai, today announced its entry into the Southeast Asian blockchain market. EurekaPro offers Asian-wide fiat-to-cryptocurrency support, allowing holders of the Singapore dollar, Malaysian ringgit, Indonesian rupiah, and other Asian fiat currencies to transact on the EurekaPro exchange.

    EurekaPro has already launched an open public beta, in which over 8,000 users have signed up in its first week.

    Eu, the exchange’s CEO, was previously the investment manager of zVentures, the venture capital arm of US- and Singapore-based gaming hardware and software firm Razer. Before that, she was an investment manager at VC firm Jafco Asia.

    On the other hand, Gan and Lau co-founded iFashion, a holding firm that invests in various fashion ecommerce sites. Gan also started beauty services marketplace Vanitee and subscription ecommerce business Vanity Trove. Lau set up FatFish Internet Group, a startup accelerator.

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  • Online printing startup Gogoprint raises $7.7m to prepare new markets

    Online printing startup Gogoprint raises $7.7m to prepare new markets

    Gogoprint, a startup that’s modernizing the printing industry, has raised US$7.7 million in series A funding to fuel its expansion into new markets like Australia, New Zealand, and South Korea in the next 12 months.

    Gogoprint is an online service for printing things like business cards, flyers, and leaflets. It uses algorithms that take into account parameters such as paper type, quantity, and delivery, and then aggregates those orders into a “print-run” or a batch of prints.

    This enables printers to make the most out of one printing sheet. Because each sheet carries fixed costs, maximizing it helps reduce prices and turnaround time for customers. It also allows printers to take in small orders from budget-conscious firms, instead of only focusing on large volume orders.

    Printers that partner with the company are able to tap new customers, helping offset the cost of any unused capacity.

    Gogoprint is active in four countries: Thailand, where it started, as well as Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. In Indonesia, it faces competition from another online printing startup, Prinzio.

    To date, Gogoprint has experienced a 200 percent year-on-year growth in customer base, attracting more than 45,000 customers with over 250 million products printed. Its clients include Honda, Lazada, Lion Air, Yamaha, Singapore’s Nanyang Technological University, and Booking.com.

    Retail News reached out to the company for more financial details, but it declined to disclose figures.

    The series A round was led by its existing backer OPG (Online Printing Group), an investor and partner of Brazil-based Printi.

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  • Malaysia’s TM hires four new board members

    Malaysia’s TM hires four new board members

    Telekom Malaysia (TM) has appointed four new directors to the company’s board, following the resignation of David Benello as an independent non-executive director. The new directors are Dato’ Asri Hamidin @ Hamidon, Dato’ Mohd Naim Daruwish, Hisham Zainal Mokhtar and Saheran Suhendran. Asri Hamidin is appointed as a non-independence non-executive director representing the special shareholder, Minister of Finance (Inc) on the board. Mohd Naim has been made a non-independent non-executive director representing the interests of the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) which is a major shareholder of the Malaysian incumbent.

    Asri is currently the deputy secretary general (investment) at the Ministry of Finance, while Mohd Naim is currently the deputy chief executive (operations) of EPF. Hisham and Saheran were appointed as the independent non-executive directors. Hisham is currently a director in the group MD’s office at Malaysian Industrial Development Finance Bhd, while Saheran is currently a consultant at Messrs Chua Associates.

    All the board appointment took effect on October 3.

    TM also announced that Farid Basir has joined the telco as its new chief human capital officer (CHCO). Farid, taking over the position previously covered by Suhaimi Sulong as the acting CHCO since early this year, assumed his new role on October 1.

    Prior to his appointment, Farid was the CHCO at Bank Rakyat for almost three years.

    Cisco names Herman Lam as MD for HK & Macau

    Cisco has appointed Herman Lam as managing director for Hong Kong and Macau.

    The company has also announced that Barbara Chiu, vice president of Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan, will retire by end of October.

    Cisco said Lam brings to the table over 25 years of experience in IT industry combined with a wealth of leadership and management experience gained with leading technology firms.

    Prior to joining Cisco, Lam’s previous stints include CEO of Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company, and general manager of Microsoft Hong Kong.

    Commenting on the appointment, Cisco Greater China chief executive officer Hera Siu said Lam’s “unique blend of experience and knowledge, complemented by extraordinary vision and operational expertise within large organizations,” will bring valuable insights to the company.

    “I also want to thank Barbara, who has had an immeasurable impact on Cisco’s success and express my utmost appreciation for her devotion and leadership during the past 12 years,” Siu noted.

    21Vianet appoints Wing-Dar Ker as DYXnet Group’s CEO

    Chinese carrier-neutral network service provider DYXnet Group has announced that Wing-Dar Ker has been appointed as the company’s new CEO.

    He takes over the position from company founder and CEO Lap Man, who will continue to serve the group as adviser.

    The appointment was made by 21Vianet Group, parent company of DYXnet Group and one of China’s carriers and cloud-neutral internet data center service providers.

    Wing is also president of Shanghai Blue Cloud Technologies Co Ltd, 21Vianet Group’s other wholly-owned subsidiary.

    The move is aimed at facilitating greater collaboration between DYXnet Group and Blue Cloud, while exploring and capitalizing on synergies, 21Vianet said.

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  • CSA, partners launch call for innovation on security threats

    CSA, partners launch call for innovation on security threats

    The  Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (CSA) and partner TNB Ventures have launched a Cybersecurity Industry Call for Innovation inviting industry providers to develop solutions for specific cybersecurity challenges. The initiative is being conducted in collaboration with five participating organizations – Ascendas-Singbridge Group, PacificLight Power, Singapore LNG Corporation (SLNG), SMRT Corporation (SMRT) and Singapore Press Holdings (SPH). The Call for Innovation consolidates and articulates the cybersecurity needs of these organizations into challenge statements that industry solution providers are invited to address through innovative solutions.

    There are two categories of challenge statements. The first category is “Advanced Protection and Detection” to help end-users avoid, defend against, and detect cyber attacks. This includes intelligent solutions that are able to detect intrusions into Operational Technology (OT) systems.

    The second category is “Advanced Security Operations” to help end-users reduce their vulnerabilities through better management of their systems. This includes solutions to increase the efficiency of patch management processes and management of Internet-of-Things (IoT) and Cloud systems.

    The submission period for the Call closes on 18 December 2018. Solution providers whose proposals are shortlisted will be invited to discuss their proposals in greater depth with the participating organizations for potential co-innovation, adoption and test-bedding.

    Selected solutions that fulfill the eligibility criteria may also be awarded with POC funding of up to S$500,000 ($363,000) under CSA’s Co-innovation and Development Proof-of-Concept Scheme.

    Teo Chin Hock, Deputy Chief Executive (Development), CSA said: “The cyber threat landscape is evolving rapidly. To build our cyber defenses and at the same time grow the industry, innovation is important. We are glad to have our partners on-board our first Cybersecurity Industry Call for Innovation. We hope to help them strengthen their cyber resilience, and at the same time, provide opportunities for solution providers to catalyze cutting-edge solutions here for commercial adoption.”

  • Australia launches fourth Mobile Black Spot round

    Australia launches fourth Mobile Black Spot round

    The Australian government has opened applications for the fourth round of the national Mobile Black Spot program, designed to improve mobile coverage in regional and remote Australia. Mobile network and infrastructure providers have been given until December 10 to submit their applications for taking part in the program to install mobile base stations at designated locations. Construction is expected to commence early next year. The government has allocated A$25 million ($17.8 million) in funding for the latest round of the program, which is designed to subsidize the deployment of base stations in unprofitable areas.

    The program has a focus on public interest premises, including economic centers, emergency services, health and educational facilities, local government facilities, as well as community and non-profit organizations.

    Co-funding is provided by state and local governments, the market’s mobile operators Optus, Telstra and Vodafone, businesses and local communities.

    Locations for the deployment were nominated by local and state governments and federal politicians, but local communities can still seek funding for locations not on the database.

    Under the first three rounds of the A$220 million federal government program, 867 new base stations are being delivered at a total cost of A$680 million.

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  • Softbank said to pick banks to lead $27b mobile IPO

    Softbank said to pick banks to lead $27b mobile IPO

    Japan’s Softbank has reportedly selected the banks that will serve as lead underwriters for the IPO of its domestic mobile business. The operator has picked banks including Nomura Holdings, Mizuho Financial, Sumitomo Mitsui Financial, Goldman Sachs and Deutsche Bank to underwite the offer for around 3 trillion yen ($26.82 billion) worth of shares, citing unnamed sources. This would make the IPO the largest ever, beating Alibaba Group’s $25 billion IPO from 2014.

    According to the sources, Softbank currently plans to start marketing the IPO next month and could list shares on the Tokyo Stock Exchange by mid-December, but this timing is subject to change.

    Softbank’s founder Masayoshi Son is seeking to squeeze value from its telecoms assets to raise funds for his Vision Fund, which aims to raise $100 billion from global investors every two to three years to invest in promising startups and emerging technologies.

    The operator is expected to market most of the shares on offer to Japanese investors.

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  • Garuda to open direct route from Singapore to Belitung Island’s Tanjung Pandan

    Garuda to open direct route from Singapore to Belitung Island’s Tanjung Pandan

    National flag carrier Garuda Indonesia has strengthened its regional network by introducing a new direct route from Singapore to Tanjung Pandan on Belitung Island, according to a press release. Set to begin on Oct. 29, the flight will be available four days a week, using the Bombardier CRJ-1000 with 96 economy class seats. Garuda Indonesia commercial director Pikri Ilham Kurniansyah said the new service is aligned with the airline’s commitment to help develop tourism in Indonesia. Moreover, the new route is to support Indonesia’s 10 priority destinations aside from Bali, which includes Tanjung Kelayang on Belitung Island.

    “The direct flight is part of the company’s strategy to expand its international network, as well as an effort to strengthen connectivity in Southeast Asia,” Pikri was quoted as saying.

    He went on to say that Singapore is one of the busiest international hubs and also close to Indonesia.

    “With a less-than-an-hour direct flight from Singapore, Belitung is a perfect short getaway destination,” said Pikri.

    He is also confident that the new route would improve the growth of trade and business in Tanjung Pandan and its surroundings, especially since it is a special economic zone and one of the 10 priority destinations.

    Tanjung Pandan is said to have beautiful beaches and being developed to be the “next Bali”.

    Garuda’s Singapore-Tanjung Pandan route will depart from Singapore’s Changi Airport at 5:20 p.m. local time every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. A Sunday flight from Changi is also available, which departs at 5:30 a.m. Arrival time at Hanandjoeddin International Airport in Tanjung Pandan is 5:50 p.m. for Monday, Wednesday and Friday, and 6 p.m. for Sunday.

    Meanwhile, all flights from Tanjung Pandan to Singapore depart at 2:50 p.m. and arrive at 4:20 p.m. local time.

    Garuda Indonesia now serves 84 flights every week to and from Singapore to Indonesian cities. Singapore-Jakarta flights are available nine times every day, the Singapore-Surabaya route has one flight daily and Singapore-Denpasar has two flights daily.