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News

Lending Interest to Rise in Southeast Asia Post-Lunar New Year

SINGAPORE: UnaFinancial’s recent analysis of Google search queries related to lending in Southeast Asia shows a consistent spike in March over the past four years. During this period, the requests increase on average by 17.8% compared to the previous month. This pattern suggests a correlation with the financial impact of Lunar New Year celebrations, typically held in late January or February. As for the traditional New Year, the interest in lending products tends to fall in December and shows only a modest increase in January. According to UnaFinancial, the consistent rise of search activity in March, coupled with strong cultural drivers, suggests a predictable trend for 2025. The analysts anticipate that the interest in lending may grow again by 15-20% in March.   “Lunar New Year is a time deeply associated with renewal,” explain the analysts. “Families across the region often make significant purchases during this time and allocate much of their budget to festive celebrations. Borrowing afterward becomes a practical solution to replenish their household finances.”   The consumer behaviour during the holidays is also confirmed by a survey conducted by Milieu Insights in late 2023. It revealed that 52% of respondents across Southeast Asia planned to increase their spending for the 2024 Lunar New Year compared to the previous year, which demonstrates the region’s commitment to celebrating the festive occasion.  

News

New Relic Appoints Simon Lee as SVP & MD for Asia-Pacific and Japan

SINGAPORE: New Relic, the Intelligent Observability company, announced the appointment of Simon Lee as Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Asia-Pacific and Japan (APJ). Lee will play an integral role in ensuring the continued success of New Relic’s APJ business as it continues to expand across the region. With extensive leadership experience in the technology sector, Lee has a proven track record of achieving significant growth for market-leading global companies throughout Asia Pacific. Prior to New Relic, Lee held the position of Vice President, Asia Pacific & Japan at Gigamon, as well as senior leadership positions at Oracle, Fluke Networks, SAP, and Seagate Technology.   Businesses across Asia Pacific and beyond are investing heavily in observability to optimise operations, cut cloud costs, enhance customer experiences, and gain valuable insights. IDC’s Asia Pacific Whole Cloud Forecast, 2024-2027 report found that Asia Pacific cloud spend is expected to grow at a CAGR of 17.3% and reach $US329.1 billion by 2027. The New Relic Intelligent Observability Platform enables businesses to optimise their operations by addressing spiraling cloud cost and tool proliferation, while improving customer experiences.   “The Asia-Pacific region is culturally diverse and highly customer-centric with endless potential for growth,” said New Relic Chief Revenue Officer Chris Jones. “The depth and breadth of experience Simon brings to our team will propel New Relic’s Asia-Pacific business to new heights as we continue to expand through scaling our high-performing teams, while delivering great value to our customers.”   Based in Singapore, Lee will join an established regional leadership team including Vice President of South Pacific Sales Jason Leonidas, Vice President of Customer Adoption Rob Newell, and other key senior leaders.   “New Relic is a proven market leader in the observability space with a strong and growing customer base, innovative product, and incredible team,” said New Relic Senior Vice President and Managing Director of Asia Pacific and Japan, Simon Lee. “The observability market has immense potential for adoption and growth across businesses of all sizes. It’s clear that observability will be critical for digitally savvy organisations in 2025 and beyond, and I’m looking forward to meeting our customers and partners as we continue to help them solve their most pressing business needs.”   New Relic has seen remarkable growth in the Asia-Pacific region in recent years, especially in Japan, Australia, and India. Since opening its first Indian office in Bengaluru in March 2022, the company has expanded rapidly within the country with the team growing by approximately 400% in 2024. The company also launched the Hyderabad Innovation Center in October 2022, and relocated to a larger +500 seat facility.

News

Pertama Digital Berhad Appoints Lim Nasrul Halim As CEO Designate

Pertama Digital Berhad (PDB) announces the appointment of  Lim Nasrul Halim as its CEO, Designate, heralding a bold new era in the company’s mission to revolutionise Malaysia’s digital ecosystem with impactful, inclusive, and innovative solutions. At 40, Mr. Halim brings nearly two decades of experience as a transformative corporate strategist, having driven groundbreaking results across technology, venture capital, private equity, and global brand expansion. During his 20 years of corporate leadership, Mr. Halim has held key roles across diverse industries, including guiding a government-linked corporation (GLC) in Malaysia, contributing to Enterprise Development Centre Singapore (EDC), and spearheading growth for global tech companies and renowned international brands. His ability to execute large-scale strategies and deliver sustainable growth underscores his expertise in navigating complex markets, fostering innovation, and achieving transformative business outcomes. As CEO, Designate, Mr. Halim will spearhead several high-impact initiatives at PDB designed to position the company as a frontrunner in Malaysia’s digital transformation. Key among these is the delivery of PDB’s regularisation plan, encompassing the strategic acquisition of Kridentia Tech Sdn. Bhd., a leader in digital identity and biometrics, and a surveillance technology company based in Singapore, which will strengthen PDB’s portfolio of cutting-edge digital security and identity solutions. In a move to expand its global footprint, PDB has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Ruya Holdings Limited, a Dubai-based company, to co-develop advanced identity and biometrics solutions powered by artificial intelligence. This collaboration will leverage the combined expertise of both companies to set new benchmarks in secure and innovative digital technologies. Mr. Halim will also oversee the expansion of KOCEK, PDB’s innovative platform for inclusive financial transactions, in partnership with local financial institutions. This expansion includes the development of a targeted digital solution for school children, aimed at cultivating financial literacy and enabling cashless transactions in schools. Additionally, PDB is introducing a tailored solution for small-scale traders, designed to bridge the digital divide by providing underserved communities with critical and affordable financial tools. This initiative will empower traders in the B40 segment to access opportunities and thrive in the digital economy. “This is a defining moment for Pertama Digital Berhad and for Malaysia’s digital transformation,” said Halim. “I am honoured to lead PDB as we embark on a journey to empower communities, create meaningful impact, and push the boundaries of what is possible with technology. By driving strategic acquisitions, forging groundbreaking collaborations, and expanding platforms like KOCEK, we aim to deliver solutions that uplift lives, enable businesses, and transform Malaysia into a truly inclusive digital nation.” “This is an exciting time for Pertama Digital Berhad as we embark on a transformative journey under Halim’s leadership,” said Datuk Ahmad Nazri bin Abdullah, Chairman of PDB. “Halim’s extensive experience and visionary approach will undoubtedly propel PDB to new heights. We are confident that his strategic expertise and commitment to innovation will enable us to deliver impactful solutions that address the needs of Malaysians and position us as a leader in the digital ecosystem.”

ESG, The Executives

Syed Muhammad Gadaffi Transforms Wellness with Sound

In an era where wellness is becoming increasingly important, Syed Muhammad Gadaffi Al Habsyi, the driving force behind JMD Wellness, has been revolutionising the field with a unique approach centered on sound therapy. His journey from personal healing to becoming a prominent figure in holistic health offers profound insights into the power of sound as a therapeutic tool. The Birth of JMD Wellness: A Personal Healing Journey After suffering a debilitating stroke in 2018 that left him paralyzed on the left side of his body, Syed Muhammad Gadaffi turned to sound therapy, a practice he had previously dabbled in. “To my and my doctor’s surprise, it completely healed me from my stroke in the shortest possible time,” he recalls. This transformative experience not only restored his health but also ignited a passion to share the method with others through JMD Wellness, making sound therapy the cornerstone of his wellness journey. Embracing Alternative Healing Syed Muhammad Gadaffi’s journey into alternative healing was deeply influenced by figures like Joe Dispenza, who extolled the benefits of sound and meditation. He emphasises, “The core principle of our approach to mental wellbeing is by looking inwards rather than external factors in determining the success of life.” At JMD Wellness, the focus is on cultivating thoughts and beliefs within the mind through sound therapy in meditation, a process that promotes profound internal transformation. JMD Wellness’s retreats are meticulously designed to offer a luxurious experience alongside therapeutic healing. Spanning three days and two nights, these retreats are hosted in serene natural settings, far from the city’s hustle and bustle. Participants enjoy thoughtfully curated healthy meals that complement the holistic experience, blending comfort, indulgence, and educational courses in natural surroundings to foster personal growth and relaxation. This unique combination ensures that clients leave not only rejuvenated but also equipped with tools to enhance their lives. Breaking through misconceptions about sound therapy has been one of JMD Wellness’s significant challenges. Many people mistakenly associate it solely with relaxation, but as Syed Muhammad Gadaffi explains, “Our approach is much deeper, focusing on empowering individuals to transform their lives from within.” JMD Wellness has dedicated considerable effort to spreading awareness of its philosophy and methods through online platforms and social media, aiming to educate and engage the public in a deeper understanding of sound therapy’s transformative potential. Strategic Partnerships and Industry Impact Collaborations with institutions like Hospital Kulim Kedah and various universities have been pivotal in expanding JMD Wellness’s reach and credibility within the health industry. These partnerships have led to invitations from corporations to conduct courses for their employees, shifting JMD Wellness’s focus to larger audiences. The research conducted on their work provides a solid foundation, building trust and demonstrating tangible benefits. “These collaborations have been transformative for our business, helping us to reach more people and showcase the real-world impact of our approach,” notes Syed Muhammad Gadaffi. Establishing Leadership in Sound Therapy JMD Wellness’s strategy to become a leader in sound therapy centers on three main pillars: innovation, education, and impact. “We aim to continually innovate by refining our programs for deep personal transformation,” says Syed Muhammad Gadaffi. By educating through accessible content and showcasing measurable impact, JMD Wellness positions itself as a thought leader in the field, continually evolving to meet the needs of its clients and the broader wellness industry. Tailoring to Diverse Audiences JMD Wellness’s services are meticulously tailored to meet the unique needs of both individuals and corporate clients. For individuals, personalized assessments are conducted before the retreat to address specific challenges. “We take a highly personalized approach to ensure that each participant receives the support and guidance they need,” explains Syed Muhammad Gadaffi. For corporate clients, tailored programs are designed to address organizational challenges, focusing on improving employee well-being and fostering a healthier work environment. This dual approach allows JMD Wellness to cater to a broad spectrum of needs, from personal to professional development. In the competitive wellness market, JMD Wellness distinguishes itself with a scientific, results-driven approach. “We go beyond relaxation to address the root causes of stress, helping individuals create lasting change,” explains Syed Muhammad Gadaffi. By blending practical education with the healing power of sound and nature, JMD Wellness’s retreats and corporate programs offer a unique proposition that sets them apart from competitors, emphasizing measurable outcomes and lasting transformation. Looking ahead, Syed Muhammad Gadaffi envisions sound therapy becoming a mainstream practice in Malaysia. JMD Wellness aims to establish its own academy and retreat center, integrating sound therapy into institutions such as hospitals, schools, and universities. “Our long-term goal is to make sound therapy accessible to all, bringing its benefits to various sectors of society,” he says, highlighting the potential for sound therapy to become a cornerstone of holistic health in the country. Sound Therapy in Corporate Wellness Sound therapy has a significant role in enhancing corporate wellness. JMD Wellness plans to integrate sound therapy into corporate programs, aiming to help employees manage stress and promote mental well-being. “Ultimately, this can lead to a more focused, efficient, and productive workforce,” explains Syed Muhammad Gadaffi, emphasizing the broader implications of sound therapy on workplace health and productivity. Through JMD Wellness, Syed Muhammad Gadaffi is not just offering a service but paving the way for a transformative approach to wellness that integrates sound, science, and personal growth. His vision for the future of sound therapy in Malaysia is ambitious, yet deeply rooted in his personal journey and commitment to holistic health.

Datuk Muhamad Umar Swift, CEO, Bursa Malaysia (right) facilitating the question and answer session with YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia (left)
Investment & Market Trends, News

Invest Malaysia London 2025

KUALA LUMPUR: Bursa Malaysia Berhad (“Bursa Malaysia” or the “Exchange”), in collaboration with CIMB Group (CIMB) and HSBC Malaysia (HSBC), concluded the first edition of its Invest Malaysia 2025 series (“Invest Malaysia” or “IM London 2025”) on 17th January 2025. Themed “Malaysia’s Economic Resurgence, Driving ASEAN’s Growth,” this flagship capital market conference continues to promote Malaysia as a compelling investment destination. It offers institutional investors and fund managers valuable insights into Malaysia’s macroeconomic outlook, market prospects, and listed companies on the Exchange. Tan Sri Abdul Wahid Omar, Chairman of Bursa Malaysia, highlighted in his opening remarks Malaysia’s economic resilience, showcasing the results of progressive national policies and reforms, while striving for stronger growth and innovation. YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia, delivered the keynote address, emphasizing the strategic significance of the United Kingdom’s accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). This milestone marks the first-ever Free Trade Agreement between the UK and Malaysia, positioning the UK closer to key Southeast Asian markets and reinforcing Malaysia’s role as a gateway to ASEAN. The Prime Minister elaborated on Malaysia’s appeal as a preferred investment destination in Asia Pacific, underpinned by strong GDP growth, low inflation, a robust capital market, and transformative policies under the MADANI economic framework. He also emphasized Malaysia’s leadership in the global semiconductor value chain, data center advancements, green energy, and artificial intelligence (AI) as key investment magnets. As ASEAN Chair this year, Malaysia is championing the region’s role as an economic and diplomatic counterbalance in a fragmented global landscape. ASEAN’s openness, inclusivity, and infrastructure investment needs present significant opportunities for international collaboration. The Prime Minister highlighted Malaysia’s leadership in fostering harmonized approaches within ASEAN through initiatives like the ASEAN-Interconnected Sustainability Ecosystem (ASEAN-ISE) and reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to global trade and partnerships, such as its collaboration with BRICS and the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JSSEZ). A fireside session with YB Datuk Seri Utama Tengku Zafrul Aziz, Minister of Investment, Trade & Industry of Malaysia (MITI), moderated by Dato’ Omar Siddiq, CEO of HSBC Malaysia, underscored Malaysia’s investment resilience amid geopolitical shifts. The Minister discussed industrial reforms to ensure economic security and sustainability, Malaysia’s non-aligned stance, and the strategic advantages of BRICS and CPTPP, including significant trade opportunities with the UK. A second fireside chat featured Datuk Johan Merican Mahmood, Secretary General of Treasury, and Dato’ Seri Abdul Rasheed Ghaffour, Governor of Bank Negara Malaysia, moderated by Michelle Chia, Head of Group Wholesale Banking Treasury & Market Research at CIMB. They discussed Malaysia’s macroeconomic strategies, investment opportunities, and resilience amidst global trade tensions. The conversation also focused on fiscal policies, the management of the ringgit, and Malaysia’s attractive investment landscape supported by its stable credit rating. Datuk Muhamad Umar Swift, CEO of Bursa Malaysia, stated, “Bursa Malaysia’s Invest Malaysia series continues to enhance Malaysia’s profile among global fund managers and institutional investors. Invest Malaysia London 2025 highlights Malaysia’s remarkable economic growth, driven by political stability and clear economic policies, to UK investors, demonstrating our commitment to becoming a more innovative, competitive, prosperous, and sustainable nation.” Since 2005, 59 Invest Malaysia Away editions have been held globally, with IM London 2025 marking the 60th edition. Approximately 200 delegates attended the session, including foreign fixed income, equity, and private equity investors, with a combined AUM exceeding RM228 trillion (approximately USD50.7 trillion). Bursa Malaysia extends its appreciation to its partners – CIMB Group and HSBC Malaysia – for their invaluable support in making Invest Malaysia London 2025 a success.

Lim Chee Gay, Managing Director, Global Operations Centre (GOC), Kuala Lumpur
News

The Access Group Appoints Lim Chee Gay to Lead Kuala Lumpur Operations

KUALA LUMPUR: The Access Group, one of the largest UK-headquartered business management software providers, has appointed Lim Chee Gay as the new Managing Director of their Global Operations Centre (GOC) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, effective 1 January 2025. The appointment marks a milestone in the Group’s regional and global growth strategy. Following the launch of its new GOC in November 2024, it – alongside the other Access GOCs throughout the world – will support 40% of the Group’s global staffing needs, and deliver excellence in product engineering, customer support, customer success, sales marketing and operations. Chee Gay’s appointment is also a reflection of the Group’s ambition to build a global backbone of world-class innovation hubs that empower customers, attract top talent, drive advancements in products and AI, accelerate sales growth and deliver operational excellence. Through the newly launched GOC, Access further expects to create over 1,000 new jobs in Kuala Lumpur by calendar year 2027 and is aligned with Malaysia’s modern services aspirations, namely, to build an agile and competent local talent pool and create 500,000 high-value digital jobs by 2025. A Leader Rooted in Excellence and Transformation Driven by his passion for innovation, Chee Kay brings a wealth of experience in helping global companies scale operations and drive transformation in dynamic industries. Most recently, he was the Global Chief Human Resources Officer at TDCX, a Singapore-based leading provider of business process outsourcing (BPO) services, where he and the senior leadership team spearheaded the company’s expansion from 3,000 to 19,000 employees and successfully established 10 new operational sites within seven years. His 29-year career journey encompasses significant leadership roles at organisations, including AIA, Samsung, T-Systems, and Intel, where he not only held key positions but also played a pivotal role in driving growth, innovation, and transformational initiatives. Recognised as one of Southeast Asia’s HR Icons, Chee Gay’s strategic acumen and passion for innovation continue to inspire meaningful organisational growth. He is also Adjunct Professor and Advisory Board Member at several universities, a further testament to his commitment to discovering and developing future talent.   Commenting on his new role, Chee Gay said: “Access has a clear vision as a premier technology solutions provider, delivering exceptional value through operational excellence and innovation.This is an exciting time to join Access, following an exceptional local reaction in Malaysia and wider APAC to our launch. We have a strong foundation upon which to build, now is the perfect time to deepen our connections within the community and deliver even greater value to our customers. I am personally committed to making our new GOC world class and I look forward to working with our talented team to grow the business and attract the best skills across APAC for Access.”   Chris Bayne, CEO, The Access Group said: “Our GO Centres in Loughborough, Timișoara, and Kuala Lumpur are instrumental in driving innovation, enabling faster M&A integration and providing exceptional customer experiences on a global scale. We are delighted to welcome Chee Gay into the Group. Under his leadership in Kuala Lumpur, we are confident that he will further strengthen its position as a critical hub in our global network – fostering collaboration, innovation and excellence.”

Media OutReach

Azbil Wins Frost & Sullivan’s 2024 Southeast Asia Company of the Year Award

Recognized for Advancing Growth Strategy & Technological Innovation TOKYO, JAPAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 January 2025 – Azbil Corporation (Tokyo Stock Exchange Code: 6845) announced that it has won Frost & Sullivan’s 2024 Best Practices Company of the Year Award in the Southeast Asia smart building solutions industry, marking its third consecutive year of recognition. Frost & Sullivan’s Company of the Year Award, its top honor, recognizes Azbil for exemplifying visionary innovation, market-leading performance, and exceptional customer care. This accolade is based on an independent evaluation of two key criteria types: Visionary Innovation & Performance and Customer Impact. Azbil excels in many of the criteria in the smart building solutions space. Frost & Sullivan, a global growth strategy consulting firm, presents Azbil with this award for demonstrating excellence in growth strategy and implementation. The award recognizes a high degree of innovation with products and technologies, and the company’s resulting leadership in customer value and market penetration. Frost & Sullivan Best Practices awards recognize companies in various regional and global markets for demonstrating outstanding achievement and superior performance in leadership, technological innovation, customer service, and strategic product development. Industry analysts compare market participants and measure performance through in-depth interviews, analyses, and extensive secondary research to identify best practices in the industry. Previously, Azbil received these awards from Frost & Sullivan: 2022 and 2023 Southeast Asia Company of the Year Award, Smart Buildings Solutions 2020 and 2021 Southeast Asia Customer Value Leadership Award, Building Automation Systems Azbil was commended for its commitment to exceeding customer expectations, solidifying its leadership in enhancing building safety, comfort, and energy optimization through advanced automation technology. The company’s expansion strategy is focused on three growth fields —new automation, environment and energy, and life cycle solutions—which enables it to address global challenges and create long-term value. Azbil’s innovative use of AI, IoT, and cloud systems in smart building solutions, coupled with its strong focus on R&D and strategic collaborations, continues to drive innovation. “Azbil’s success as a pioneer in the smart building solutions industry stems from its ability to adapt to global challenges, leverage its deep expertise in automation, and focus on delivering innovative and comprehensive solutions. By continuously evolving its business model and addressing the needs of a changing world, Azbil remains at the forefront of the industry,” said Mr. Anirudh Bhaskaran, Industry Principal, Energy & Environment, Frost & Sullivan. “We are honored to receive the esteemed award from Frost & Sullivan. This achievement is a testament to Azbil’s commitment to addressing evolving challenges and opportunities with visionary strategies, smart building automation technologies, and industry-leading best practices to deliver excellence across the value chain. We share this achievement with our employees, customers, and partners, whose collective efforts drive our success. Moving forward, we remain steadfast in advancing industry growth and strengthening our position as a global top value creator for innovative, human-centered solutions,” said Mr. Kazuyasu Hamada, Managing Corporate Executive and President of Building Systems Company, Azbil Corporation. Click the URL below for a full report from Frost & Sullivan. https://www.azbil.com/press/pdf/250121-01.pdf Guided by the Group philosophy of “human-centered automation,” Azbil continues to provide products and solutions that contribute “in series” to creating a sustainable society. Hashtag: #azbil The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Azbil Corporation Azbil Corporation formerly known as Yamatake Corporation, is a leading company in building and industrial automation, using its measurement and control technologies to provide customers with high value-added solutions to make their operations more efficient and sustainable. Founded in 1906, Azbil serves customers across the globe in a broad range of industries and aims to contribute to people’s safety, comfort, and fulfilment, and global environmental preservation. At the end of March 2024, Azbil employed about 10,000 people worldwide and generated ¥290.9 billion in revenue. For more information, please visit https://www.azbil.com/.

Media OutReach

New Funding to Accelerate Sandbox VR’s Global Franchise Program Set for Explosive Growth, With 200 Projected Stores in 2027

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 January 2025 – Sandbox VR, the world’s premier destination for premium location-based virtual reality experiences, expects continued robust growth in its global franchise program in the coming years. To accelerate its growth in North America and Europe, the company has recently raised a US$6.8 million convertible note led by funds managed by Gobi Partners, who has supported the company in multiple rounds of financing. With over 100k players monthly, Sandbox VR is rapidly growing its global footprint with thriving corporate-owned locations and a robust franchising program. The company topped 1.4 million tickets sold in 2024. An average Sandbox VR location in the US achieved US$1.7 million in annual revenue. With a predominant presence in the US and Western Europe, Sandbox VR has grown the number of lifetime franchise operators 3x in 2024 alone, from 8 to 25 total operators. With this momentum, the company plans to operate 200 locations before the end of 2027. Other notable investors in this round include Abacus Ventures Growth Fund, which has invested over US $1 million, and Hyphen Capital. Robust Expansion Through Franchise Program With over 100k players monthly, Sandbox VR is rapidly growing its global footprint with thriving corporate-owned locations and a robust franchising program. Sandbox VR’s franchise program launched in 2019 for international markets and opened up for the US territories since April 2024. Franchising has been instrumental in making Sandbox VR the fastest-growing location-based VR startup globally, and this momentum signals continued rapid growth, the company said. Its first franchise opened in Singapore in 2019. “We are passionate about creating the future of entertainment and giving people the opportunity to step into a whole new reality. After opening corporate-owned locations and seeing millions of players gear up to enter our immersive virtual reality experiences, work together toward a common goal, and create connections while being active and having fun, we were excited to expand our presence further,” said Steve Zhao, Founder and CEO of Sandbox VR. “We knew franchising was a key component of scaling and that it was critical that we work with the right partners, operators who share our passion and believe in our vision. Today, we are thrilled to be working with esteemed franchise partners across the globe and look forward to collaborating with additional partners as our franchise program continues to flourish.” Chibo Tang, Managing Partner at Gobi Partners, expressed confidence in Sandbox VR’s trajectory, “As a serial backer of Sandbox VR, we have witnessed the company’s remarkable evolution from pioneering immersive entertainment to becoming a global leader in location-based virtual reality. Their focus on global expansion, franchise scalability, proprietary VR technology, and innovative IP development sets them apart in the industry. We are proud to lead this latest round of funding and continue supporting Sandbox VR in its mission to redefine entertainment and create unparalleled experiences for players worldwide.” Franchise Partners Remain Key to Success with Growth Opportunity in Asia Asia remains a key market for Sandbox VR, with its strong corporate presence in Hong Kong and Singapore, and corporate-owned locations in Hong Kong, Macau and Shanghai. Apparel Group, a global fashion and lifestyle conglomerate in the Middle East, partnered with Sandbox VR to bring virtual reality innovation to the region. Apparel Group has over 85 brands and over 2,200 stores across 14 countries. This collaboration will begin with 25 locations in the Middle East. Sandbox VR’s UK and Ireland franchise partners, VR Entertainment Group, is proof of the strength of the Sandbox VR franchise program. They have launched three UK locations, two in London and one in Birmingham, and plan to open additional locations across the UK and Ireland. In London alone, VR Entertainment Group has seen a 16.8% increase in guests year-to-date and projects their 2024 revenue to top $5 million. Sandbox VR is working with two franchise partners in Germany, NextLevel Erlebnisse GmbH and Royal Casino DGS GmbH. The former signed an agreement to open three locations in 2022. The success of their first locations led NextLevel Erlebnisse GmbH to expand their agreement in 2023 to 12 locations across West Germany by mid-2026. Franchise partner Royal Casino DGS GmbH executed an ambitious 12-unit deal to open locations across Northern and Eastern Germany by the end of 2026 after reading an article about Sandbox VR. Their first two locations, in Hamburg and Berlin, opened in 2024. With six locations currently open and many more to come, Germany is Sandbox VR’s largest international market. What Sandbox VR is offering Sandbox VR is creating the world’s most immersive full-body VR platform and experiences using proprietary, patented technology that combines full-body motion capture and high-quality haptics to provide unprecedented realism and complete immersion that’s not possible with home VR or other location-based VR platforms. As of January 2025, Sandbox VR offers nine exclusive games, including original and branded experiences, such as Squid Game Virtuals, created in collaboration with Netflix. They are all developed by in-house AAA gaming studios in Hong Kong and Vancouver, led by game industry veterans and are specifically designed for groups to play as social experiences. Teams of up to six freely roam and explore virtual worlds together while relying on each other to succeed and to experience being the stars of their own action movie. The list of Sandbox VR immersive entertainment experiences Rebel Moon: The Descent – Images available HERE The newest Sandbox VR experience and second partnership with Netflix, Rebel Moon: The Descent allows you to enter the thrilling sci-fi franchise that’s taken the world by storm. Deadwood PHOBIA – Images available HERE The latest installment of VR’s most iconic zombie series, Deadwood PHOBIA takes players into a derelict medical facility crawling with unprecedented, mind-bending horrors. Squid Game Virtuals – Images available HERE Compete against your crew in several pulse-pounding (yet more approachable, but just as thrilling) mini-games inspired by the #1 Netflix series. Play again and again to experience and master all-new games and challenges. Seekers of the Shard: Dragonfire

Energy & Technology

Accenture Enhances AI-Powered Cybersecurity to Boost Client Resilience

KUALA LUMPUR: Accenture (NYSE:ACN) announced new services and capabilities designed to reinvent business and cyber resilience through the power of gen AI, deepfake protection and quantum-safe data security solutions to help clients across industries become cyber-resilient organizations. Cybercriminals are increasingly using gen AI and dark large language models (LLMs) to launch new types of cyberattacks. In fact, Accenture’s cyber intelligence (ACI) researchers have observed a 223% surge in deepfake-related tool trading on dark web forums in the first quarter of 2024, compared to the same period in 2023. The ACI team expects a significant rise in AI-driven cyberattacks, a warning signal that organizations need to adopt advanced AI-based cybersecurity measures that detect, respond to, predict and prevent threats in real-time.   “Modern cybersecurity protects the entire business—from the digital core to the supply chain—using gen AI-powered and quantum-proof protections to counter advanced AI-driven threats,” said Vinod Shankar, Security Lead, Southeast Asia at Accenture. “In Southeast Asia, our new cybersecurity services and centers help clients safeguard critical assets, enhance resilience, and navigate the region’s complex digital landscape with confidence, accelerating innovation and value creation.”   “The cybersecurity landscape faces unprecedented challenges, from geopolitical tensions to supply chain vulnerabilities. In Malaysia, as a leading innovation hub and digital economy, these risks are heightened. Gen AI-powered cybersecurity solutions enable organizations to navigate complexities, enhance protection, and build resilience, ensuring they remain secure and competitive in a rapidly evolving environment,” said Loh Tee Cheu, Security Lead at Accenture in Malaysia.   New Cybersecurity Services According to Gartner®, concern about AI-enhanced malicious attacks again topped Gartner, Inc.’s emerging risk rankings in the second quarter of 2024. To help clients safely adopt emerging technologies while simultaneously tackling evolving threats, Accenture is introducing new services, which it also employs to protect its business operations. Some of these include: Secure AI Solutions establishes resilience throughout an organization’s entire AI program lifecycle, including best practices for developing frameworks; policies and processes to ensure secure AI practices; capabilities to assess and protect access, data, models, infrastructure and building trust-by-design in AI systems. It also incorporates red-teaming and adversarial simulations that help find vulnerabilities in AI systems, including LLMs and a Gen AI Security Diagnostic to detect and secure unauthorized AI deployments. · Deepfake Protection includes security testing, monitoring and detection of deepfakes powered by key partners’ technologies such as Reality Defender to stay ahead of evolving AI threats that are impacting customer contact centers, business videoconferences and other critical points of communication. · Business Cyber Crisis Recovery a cloud-based solution enables C-suite leaders across industries such as healthcare, telecommunications and oil & gas to quickly restore essential infrastructure and significantly reduce the downtime impacts associated with recovering from a cyberattack. As a result, essential operations can be restored in hours rather than weeks. · Quantum Security Suite of services for building robust strategies, discovering vulnerable encryption throughout an enterprise and replacing outdated technology by leveraging the latest quantum-safe algorithms recommended by the US National Institute of Standards and Technology and orchestrating their use securely and efficiently.   Core Cybersecurity Services – Newly Powered by Gen AI Many organizations (86%) are either actively or planning to consolidate their tools as a means to streamline their cybersecurity operations. In response, Accenture is powering its core cybersecurity offerings with the Accenture mySecurity a centralized suite of assets that integrates gen AI into all cyber-resilience services across supply chain, cloud, application, cyber resilience and identity and access management to drive speed, efficiency and help clients protect against AI-driven threats. These include: For example, Accenture is actively working to shield nations from cyberattacks and is helping the Kuwait Government Central Agency for Information Technology to strengthen their cybersecurity infrastructure through the establishment and management of a National Security Operations Center. This collaborative effort aims to enhance visibility, detection and remediation capabilities against evolving cyber threats. The project will be supported by Accenture’s global network of Cyber Future Centers supported by a 24/7 local team focused on protecting the nation’s most critical organizations leveraging the benefits of gen AI. New Cyber Future Centers Additionally, delivering these new cybersecurity services Accenture will expand its global network of advanced cybersecurity facilities with new Cyber Future Centers powered by emerging technologies. The new locations include a flagship gen AI Security studio in Brussels and a studio in Washington, D.C.; a Quantum Security Center and Lab and a Cyber Physical Security center in Bengaluru; and a Sovereignty Hub in Malaga. With these new centers powered by gen AI and quantum security solutions, Accenture’s cybersecurity facilities currently span more than 40 locations across 22 countries. In 2024, the number of Accenture’s cybersecurity professionals grew by more than 30% to more than 25,000 people. Since 2015, Accenture has made 19 security acquisitions, including most recently strengthening its managed security services capabilities in Europe and Mexico with the acquisition of Innotec Security and Mnemo Mexico, respectively. Additionally, Accenture has invested in 13 cybersecurity, space and quantum security companies, including SpiderOak and Aliro Quantum.

Media OutReach

2025 Gifting Insights From Latest Survey

Birthdays top the occasion for both gift-giving and gift-receiving while natural diamond jewellery remains the most wanted gifts. HONG KONG – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 January 2025 – For most of us, a new year brings fresh opportunities, yearly goals, and professional and personal aspirations. Stepping into 2025, a recent survey by NielsenIQ (NIQ) reveals consumers in the city are eager to pamper themselves and their loved ones with meaningful gifts in the year ahead. Over 90% of respondents intend to purchase a gift while 80% indicate they will purchase natural diamond jewellery. The findings show that birthdays are the top occasions to receive gifts and give gifts. In terms of the choice of gifts, 77% of respondents (out of 87% who expect to receive any gifts) wish to receive natural diamond jewellery as a gift. Stepping into 2025, a recent gifting survey by NielsenIQ (NIQ) reveals over 90% of respondents intend to purchase a gift while 80% indicate they will purchase natural diamond jewellery. Conducted with over 1,300 respondents through an online questionnaire, the survey delves into local gifting preferences. The findings confirm that gifting is a cherished tradition, creating memorable experiences during significant occasions, such as birthdays (58%), anniversaries (40%), Valentine’s Day (31%), and Christmas (31%). Notably, most respondents (89%) emphasize that natural diamonds are essential for jewellery, whether as gifts or for personal enjoyment. 93% of consumers plan to purchase gifts for upcoming occasions in the coming 12 months, with 87% looking forward to receiving gifts as well. Interestingly, while partners and spouses remain the primary recipients of gifts (50%), a growing number of respondents (55%) are embracing self-gifting. When it comes to preferred gifts, sparkling jewellery stands out. 67% of respondents cited jewellery as one of their top three gifting preferences, with 34% selecting it as their top choice. This is followed by travel (22%), fashion, accessories, and bags (20%), and electronics (14%). The allure of jewellery is even stronger among those wish to receive gifts, with 44% choosing it, surpassing travel (19%) and fashion, accessories, and bags (16%). Among the types of jewellery desired, preferences range from rings and necklaces to earrings and bracelets. When selecting their ideal natural diamonds, respondents prioritize several key criteria. The classic 4Cs (carat, colour, clarity and cut) are the top considerations for 72% of consumers, followed by price 53% and certification 49%. Design and origin also play significant roles, with 46% and 31% of respondents considering these factors, respectively. The reasons for choosing natural diamonds reflect their intrinsic values. 85% consider natural diamonds to be “precious, rare, and naturally formed through time and nature,” while 84% view them as “one-of-a-kind.” Additionally, 80% appreciate that their value is sustained due to their rarity. 40% respondents indicate their main source of information about natural diamonds is social media. Regarding the purchase mode for diamond jewellery, 89% of respondents will do research before making a purchase decision. Yet 81% will make the purchase in a physical store. This indicates a combination of online and offline research, and offline buying behaviour among consumers. 65% agree that the research information obtained so far is sufficient. As far as gifting is concerned, it is clear that natural diamonds remain a top choice for consumers looking to celebrate and create lasting memories. The consumer survey, conducted by NIQ from October 29 to November 1, 2024, involved a total of 1,316 participants aged 18-54 through various online channels. Among the respondents, 20% were male and 80% were female, with the majority (76%) being married, engaged, or in a relationship. Commissioned by De Beers Group, NIQ managed the design and data analysis of the survey. Hashtag: #2025Gifting #Survey #NaturalDiamonds https://www.debeersgroup.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/debeersgroup/http://www.twitter.com/DeBeersGrouphttp://www.facebook.com/DeBeersGroupOfCompanies/http://www.instagram.com/debeersgroup The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About De Beers Group Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with diamond mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers Jewellers and Forevermark, and other pioneering solutions such as diamond sourcing and traceability initiatives Tracr and GemFair. De Beers Group also provides leading services and technology to the diamond industry in the form of education and laboratory services via De Beers Institute of Diamonds and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology systems via De Beers Group Ignite. De Beers Group is committed to ‘Building Forever,’ a holistic and integrated approach for creating a better future – where safety, human rights and ethical integrity continue to be paramount; where communities thrive and the environment is protected; and where there are equal opportunities for all. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo-American plc group. For further information, visit www.debeersgroup.com.

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