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The Estates Samui Welcomes Exclusive Freehold Villas Designed by Bill Bensley

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BANGKOK: The Estates Samui, a collection of 15 luxury villas developed by Minor International PCL, proudly introduces three new residences for sale. Designed by the renowned architect Bill Bensley, the exclusive vacation homes offer expansive living spaces and uninterrupted ocean views, all within the captivating theme of tropical contemporary design. Anticipated completion is set for Q3 2026, with an optional rental programme available.   Conveniently located just 30 minutes from the island’s international airport, The Estates Samui is accessible by daily flights or private jet and offers a combination of diversion and tranquillity amid miles of pristine white sand, untouched rainforest and vibrant marine life. The development is perched above a secluded cove, promising complete privacy, breathtaking panoramic vistas and access to Four Seasons Resort Koh Samui’s exceptional amenities, including a fully equipped fitness centre, tennis courts, library and reading room, water sport activities, a world-class spa and some of the best beachside dining options in Thailand. Owners also benefit from five-star services like all-day room service, bell attendant service, 24-hour telephone operator, cable television, 24-hour security, private parking and housekeeping.   Nestled gracefully on the cliffside, the new four- and five-bedroom villas showcase Bill Bensley’s award-winning architectural and landscape design expertise, ensuring a seamless fusion of aesthetics and functionality to maximise the potential of the lush 15-rai plot. The first-floor sun deck and infinity pool with bubble beds and water jets connect to a shaded BBQ area and pool bar, creating an ideal space for alfresco entertaining and sundowners. Indoors, a cosy family room, game room, living room and dining area harmoniously connect to a serene interior garden and a fully equipped kitchen. Two ensuite bedrooms offer captivating sea views. Ascending to the upper level, accessible via either an elevator or a dramatic sweep of stairs, residents will find a flexible area that can be converted into a home theatre and a lounge bar with panoramic vistas. Just to the side, a wellness zone opens onto an outdoor terrace, with a gym and an optional spa room providing a serene space for meditation and quality workouts. The upper level can also accommodate two more bedrooms, customisable to the owners’ preferences, with ample space for an optional maid’s or laundry room.   The villas and common area facilities are managed by dedicated estate management under the supervision of the Four Seasons hotel management team. This ensures the highest level of service quality, covering everything from general administration and resort transportation to landscaping maintenance, routine and preventive maintenance, general repairs, pest control, pool cleaning and 24-hour security.   The Estates Samui offers both freehold and leasehold structures, depending on the eligibility of the purchaser. For inquiries, please email at [email protected] or call +66 85 484 8752.

RADIUM
Property

Radium Development Berhad Officially Opens Sales Gallery for Radium Arena @ Old Klang Road

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KUALA LUMPUR: Radium Development Berhad (“Radium”) officially opened the Radium Arena sales gallery today, unveiling its exciting upcoming project. Strategically situated on Old Klang Road (“OKR”), this development marks a significant milestone in the company’s portfolio, blending the area’s rich history with contemporary urban living. With a Gross Development Value (“GDV”) of approximately RM550 million, Radium Arena offers a unique blend of urban comfort, convenience, and sustainable living. The project recently earned the Provisional GreenRE Certification (Gold) for its sustainable design and innovative green features. Targeted for completion in the fourth quarter of 2028, the development has already garnered considerable market anticipation. During the official opening, Radium Development Berhad Chief Marketing Officer Mr. Kenneth Khoo stated: “This project is particularly close to our hearts because it holds a beautiful duality — preserving the rich heritage and charm of Old Klang Road while seamlessly blending it with the pulse of modern urban living. We envisioned Radium Arena as a place where the past meets the future, where residents can celebrate the traditions of this cherished neighbourhood while embracing a contemporary lifestyle.” Set on 3.03 acres of prime freehold land, Radium Arena features two 40-storey blocks with 988 well-designed residential units. Options range from cozy 2-bedroom, 2-bathroom units at 658 square feet to spacious 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom dual-key units measuring 920 square feet, with one or two carpark bays, catering to various lifestyles. Security is a key focus, with a comprehensive 3-tier, 24-hour system ensuring residents’ peace of mind. Enhancing the living experience, the development offers extensive amenities on the eighth-floor deck and rooftop. Level 8 facilities include an infinity pool, aqua gym, garden pavilion, BBQ area, jogging path, golf simulator, yoga studio, and versatile meeting and event spaces. Rooftop amenities on Level 40 feature an urban farming area, yoga deck, and private lounge area with panoramic city views. Radium Arena’s prime location offers direct access to Jalan Klang Lama and major highways, ensuring seamless connectivity to areas such as Jalan Gasing, PJ State, Petaling Jaya, Sunway City, Subang, Puchong, Taman OUG, Bukit Jalil, Sri Petaling, Bangsar, and Brickfields. Nearby healthcare facilities and recreational venues include Assunta Hospital, KMI Taman Desa Medical Centre, Beacon Hospital, Mid Valley Megamall, Pearl Point Shopping Gallery, Pavilion Bukit Jalil, Bloomsvale Shopping Gallery, and Sports Arena Sentosa. Elaborating on the project, Radium Development Berhad Group Managing Director Datuk Gary Gan said: “Our broader mission at Radium is to build more than just structures; we build communities. Radium Arena, with its cohesive blend of the past and the future, is a reflection of our commitment to creating spaces where heritage and modernity coexist, fostering a sense of belonging for all. This development meets the growing demand for competitively priced homes near the city centre and aligns with our mission to provide quality homes that cater to the aspirations of Malaysians from all walks of life.” Radium Arena, offering unparalleled comfort, convenience, and connectivity, is expected to appeal to first-time home buyers, young professionals, upgraders, and discerning property investors seeking a modern sanctuary in a storied Kuala Lumpur neighbourhood. Radium anticipates launching Radium Arena @ Old Klang Road by the end of October 2024. To explore this opportunity, visit the sales gallery, call the dedicated sales team at +603 2787 7900, or visit Radium Arena.

Giles Hill
News

International SOS Announces Appointment of Giles Hill as Head of Global Security Services

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KUALA LUMPUR: International SOS is proud to announce the appointment of Giles Hill as Head of Global Security Services. Giles brings unparalleled expertise from his distinguished 33-year career in the British Army, where he achieved the rank of 3-Star General. His military career, marked by exemplary leadership in high-stakes operations across Northern Ireland, the Balkans, Iraq and Afghanistan, has equipped him with a profound understanding of global security dynamics.    Giles Hill, Group Head of Global Security Services, International SOS, comments:  “Over the past year with International SOS, I have been privileged to work with the very best security talent in our industry. Together, we work tirelessly to support our clients and safeguard the health and security of their employees every day, wherever they are around the world in what is a very disruptive, dangerous and unpredictable global context. I very much look forward to this exciting new global leadership role, where I can leverage my experience to set out a vision and a plan to further shape and develop our security services, ensuring we remain at the forefront of innovation and excellence in global security.”  Arnaud Vaissié, Co-founder and CEO of International SOS, comments:  “In today’s complex threat landscape, our clients’ urgent needs demand innovative and unparalleled solutions. Giles’ extensive military and strategic expertise make him the ideal leader to elevate our global security services. His extensive experience in strategic planning and crisis management will be pivotal in advancing our cutting-edge security solutions at International SOS and what we need to continue delivering exceptional service and protection to our clients worldwide. As Chair of the International Security Advisory Board, Giles had already significantly shaped our strategic direction. His distinguished career and unwavering commitment to transforming global security are truly commendable. Furthermore, his dedication to mentoring the next generation of security professionals will undoubtedly propel our security team to new heights.”  Amongst many leadership positions, Giles led the UK’s high readiness response force (16 Air Assault Brigade), was the Deputy Commanding General of the US 82nd Airborne Division, Commanding General of the 1st (United Kingdom) Division and was Assistant Chief of UK Defence Staff responsible for the UK MOD’s International Policy and Plans for the Middle East, Africa, Asia and the Americas. His last military appointment was as the UK Military’s most senior deployed operational commander / Deputy Commander of the NATO coalition in Afghanistan. Giles was awarded the CBE in 2014, the CB in 2020 and the US Legion of Merit in 2021 for his leadership. Since leaving military service, Giles has run a strategic advisory and global risk management consultancy.                                                                             International SOS’ capabilities include:    Nearly 12,000 multi-cultural security, medical, logistics and digital experts to provide support & assistance from over 1,200 locations in 90 countries, 24/7, 365 days.  This includes a full-time security team of almost 200 and unrivalled ‘boots on the ground’ deployed globally, even in remote, hostile, or extreme-risk environments. Nearly 400 credentialed security partners are accessible in over 250 countries and territories.  Running 27 Assistance Centres worldwide, which provide timely security advice and support 24/7.  Providing assistance services in addition to travel security professional services and crisis consulting solutions. Providing verified information by distributing 11,888 security alerts and 106 security forecast and insight reports globally annually.  Provision of digital features of a Workforce Resilience service, which supports clients with the ability to locate 7.7 million employees through Tracker. Delivery of accurate and timely information on changing security threats via 8731 security alerts.   

News

Jaya Grocer appoints Daniel Teng as CEO

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KUALA LUMPUR: Supermarket chain operator Jaya Grocer has appointed as its new chief executive officer (CEO) effective Oct 1, 2024. He succeeds Adelene Foo, who will take on the role of chairperson. “Teng, currently serving as deputy CEO and a key figure in the company’s growth, will now lead Jaya Grocer as it continues to provide a variety of high-quality and fresh produce at best value prices, while ensuring the best shopping experience for customers,” the company said in a statement today. Jaya Grocer said the change is designed to reinforce its position as a leading mass premium retailer in Malaysia, supporting sustained growth and success. It also ensures continuity of the ecosystem’s shared mission, vision, and values, it added. –BERNAMA

News

ZUS Coffee Secures RM250 Mil Investment for Global Expansion

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KUALA LUMPUR: Tech-enabled coffee chain ZUS Coffee has secured RM250 million in investment from a consortium comprising KV Asia Capital, Retirement Fund Inc (KWAP) and Kapal Api Group. Ernst & Young Malaysia acted as the mergers and acquisitions adviser for the transaction. In a statement today, ZUS Coffee said the new partnership and investment herald a new chapter and serve as a springboard for the company’s growth. The brand, which operates 600 stores regionally, continues to expand its portfolio in Malaysia. “Leveraging its strong brand equity and loyal customer base, ZUS Coffee is focused on becoming an international brand. Currently, ZUS Coffee operates 50 stores in the Philippines and aims to be a market leader there within the next three years. “New markets are on the horizon-Singapore and Brunei will be the next two markets for ZUS Coffee, with launches planned between September and the end of the year,” the company stated. ZUS Coffee is also actively engaging with potential partners in other international markets and expects to reach more customers across new geographies in 2025. Its founder and chief executive officer Ian Chua expressed enthusiasm about the investment and partnership, noting that the company looks forward to bolstering its international expansion plans. “This partnership will not only grow our core coffee business but also support our entry into new verticals such as fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG),” he said. KWAP chief investment officer Hazman Hilmi Sallahuddin said the retirement fund is proud to partner with KV Asia Capital (a Southeast Asia-focused private equity firm) and Kapal Api Group to support ZUS Coffee’s next growth phase. “Locally, our focus will be on helping ZUS Coffee solidify its presence through an expanded store network and contributing to the community via job creation and local initiatives. “Internationally, we are excited to assist the brand in expanding its global footprint, further elevating ZUS Coffee and Malaysia on the world stage,” he added. –BERNAMA

Investment & Market Trends, News

Qew Group Berhad Partners with Crewstone International to Strengthen Investment Capabilities

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PUTRAJAYA: Qew Group Berhad (Qew) has announced a strategic partnership with Crewstone International Sdn Bhd (CSI), aimed at enhancing its investment portfolio and fund structuring capabilities. By tapping into CSI’s extensive experience in professional roadshow management, capital raising, syndicate formation, and customized financing advisory services, Qew will significantly bolster its capacity to attract and manage both retail and institutional investors. This collaboration is poised to strengthen Qew’s position in the global investment landscape by leveraging CSI’s established track record in these areas. The partnership will not only help Qew expand its international presence but also elevate its reputation within global investment markets. A key focus of this partnership is ensuring thorough due diligence and effective management of all potential investments. Both companies will adhere to the highest compliance standards as per Securities Commission Malaysia regulations. Additionally, CSI will support Qew in the establishment, management, and operation of fund accounts, while overseeing audits and ensuring financial transparency throughout all processes. Qew and CSI will also work closely to identify and engage with prospective investors who align with Qew’s strategic investment objectives and risk profile. By building long-term partnerships with the right investors, the collaboration aims to drive a sustainable, growth-focused investment strategy. This partnership marks a pivotal step in Qew Group Berhad’s journey toward becoming a major player in the investment management industry, positioning the company for future growth and success.

Upcoming Events

Franchising & Licensing Asia 2024 to Unlock New Horizons in Licensing and Tech-Enabled Franchising

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SINGAPORE: Presented by the Franchising and Licensing Association (Singapore) and organised by Constellar, the 19th edition of Franchising & Licensing Asia will take place at Sands Expo & Convention Centre from September 12 to 14. Featuring over 300 franchise brands and licensable characters by 150 exhibitors, including international franchises from Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, the United States and Vietnam, FLAsia 2024 is the region’s most international franchising event. Unparalleled Insights and Opportunities for Franchising & Licensing in Asia Asia’s rapidly growing Gen Z population will become the highest consumer spending class globally by 2030, presenting vast opportunities as a target market for businesses to expand in Asia through franchising & licensing. With Asia already contributing over 30% of all franchised businesses worldwide, this region offers lucrative prospects for both homegrown and global brands, especially as the demand for quality products and services across sectors like beauty, wellness, education, and technology surges. As an entrepreneurial venture, franchising and licensing provides relative business stability and growth, and will appeal to financially-savvy younger generations with a lower-risk appetite. Singapore’s pro-business environment provides a strategic launchpad and springboard for these ventures, making FLAsia 2024 a crucial platform for exploring partnerships and driving regional business growth. FLAsia 2024 will offer unparalleled opportunities for entrepreneurs and investors to connect with leading brands looking to expand across the rapidly growing Asia Pacific consumer market, as well as thought leaders, business owners and decision-makers offering insights into building business resilience and scalability. FLAsia 2024 is supported by regional trade and franchising associations in Cambodia, China, Egypt, Philippines, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam. Deep-Dive into the World of Brand and Character Licensing For the first time, FLAsia 2024 features an expansive showcase of licensable brands and characters, as well as comprehensive content, to equip interested parties for the journey. Characters include those from the Marvel Universe, Pac Man, Sonic The Hedgehog, Tamagotchi and The Legend of Hei. Attendees can also connect with representatives from Avex Asia, Bandai Namco, Disney and XM Studios, among others, at the FLAsia Conference and gain insights into the evolving landscape of brand and character licensing. The conference will feature two key panel discussions on brand and character licensing, highlighting the advantages of strategic collaborations and emerging trends that are reshaping the industry. The first session, “The Power of Brand Licensing: How Strategic Collaboration Can Help Scale Your Business,” moderated by John Ong, Executive Chairman of FT Consulting, will explore how innovative licensing models and partnerships can expand brand reach and drive growth. Panellists include Alex Baillie, Vice President and General Manager, Consumer Products, The Walt Disney Company, Southeast Asia, India, and the Middle East; Ben Ang, CEO of XM Studios; and Winston Chan, Board Director of IPOS International and Chief Executive Officer of FT Consulting. The second session, “Emerging Trends Shaping the Future of Brand Licensing: Disrupting Traditional Models,” moderated by Esther Wee, President of IIPCC Singapore and IP Consultant at RHT Law Asia LLP, will examine the impact of digital content, social media, technology, sustainability, and globalisation on brand licensing. The panel features Dr. Bryan Tan, Chief Executive Officer of COL Web, Edmund Low, Head of Licensing Division (APAC) at Avex Asia, and Tracy Lui, Senior Assistant Director of Marketing Communications at Mount Faber Leisure Group. “Character and brand licensing offers exciting opportunities for entrepreneurs to leverage established brand equity, accelerating growth and market penetration,” said Mr Edmund Low, Head of Licensing Division (APAC) at Avex Asia. “By partnering with recognizable characters or brands, businesses can tap into existing consumer fandom, reduce marketing costs and enhance overall credibility. Embracing brand extensions not only fosters innovation through collaboration but also creates synergistic partnerships that drive long-term success. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to explore the vast potential of brand licensing as a strategic pathway to elevate their business ventures and achieve sustainable growth.” Learn about the Impact of Technology and How to Build Tech-Driven Strategies in Franchising The conference will also feature two pivotal sessions focused on navigating today’s complex business and franchising environment impacted by technology. In the session “Business Not as Usual,” Kok Ping Soon, CEO of Singapore Business Federation, will provide critical insights into the key factors that drive business success, offering actionable strategies to overcome barriers and build resilient, future-ready companies amidst rapid technological developments and a challenging operating environment. Mr Kok Ping Soon, Chief Executive Officer of Singapore Business Federation (SBF) said, “In a ‘business-not-as-usual’ environment, SBF has supported our members by shaping solutions, allowing them to pivot quickly, maintain continuity, and adapt to unexpected challenges. SBF strives to empower our members with the necessary know-how and skillsets through the various initiatives such as driving internationalisation efforts, building on sustainability, and working with various partners to bring fundamental digital solutions to SMEs.” The second session, “The Tech Advantage: Why You Should Choose a Tech-Driven Franchise,” moderated by Oliver Tian, Founder and Director of Oliver Tian Associates, will explore how technology is revolutionising franchising. Panellists Jeremy Choong of Jayvoxx Holdings, Keith Tan of Crown Digital, and Xiao Saunders of Xiao Saunders Consultation will discuss the benefits of tech-forward franchises, including higher profits, easier expansion, and a competitive market edge. “Tech-driven franchise models allow entrepreneurs to tap into advanced technology to optimise operations and enhance customer experiences,” said Mr Keith Tan, CEO & Founder of Crown Digital Pte Ltd. “For instance, we combined AI and robotics to develop Ella the robot barista, a groundbreaking tech-enabled franchise opportunity that redefines the F&B landscape. Ella transforms the coffee experience by delivering consistent, efficient, and contactless service, catering to modern consumer needs. By investing in tech-driven franchises such as Ella, franchisees join the forefront of innovation, driving the future of automated retail globally.” Apart from the above sessions, attendees can engage in interactive discussions and practical workshops that will provide them with comprehensive knowledge on franchising in Southeast Asia. Connect with New and Established Franchisors Onsite FLAsia 2024 will enable attendees with franchising intent to make

Lifestyle

Iconic Dusit Thani Bangkok Hotel Confirms Reopening

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BANGKOK: Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has confirmed that its reimagined flagship Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel will officially open to guests on 27 September 2024, signalling an exciting new chapter for the company in Thailand and internationally. Completely rebuilt from the ground up as part of the Dusit Central Park mixed-use development, the new Dusit Thani Bangkok pays homage to its 50-year legacy while setting a new standard for luxury hospitality. Designed with discerning travellers in mind, the hotel promises to make history once again, establishing groundbreaking benchmarks in service and design. Rising on the same prestigious site as its predecessor, the new Dusit Thani Bangkok boasts a unique distinction: all 257 of its luxurious guest rooms boast breathtaking, uninterrupted views of Lumpini Park. Elegant, cantilevered window seats extend from each guest room, inviting guests to immerse themselves in the stunning panorama.   Ms Suphajee Suthumpun, Group CEO of Dusit International, emphasised the company’s commitment to merging contemporary trends with the timeless spirit of the original Dusit Thani Bangkok, which was the city’s tallest, grandest building when it first opened in 1970.    “For over five decades, the original Dusit Thani Bangkok was a beloved landmark, a true ambassador of Thai hospitality for global travellers,” said Ms Suthumpun. “As we embarked on its reimagination, we were committed to honouring that legacy while exceeding the expectations of today’s sophisticated guests. This meant meticulously preserving elements of the original hotel and seamlessly blending them with a fresh, modern design. Throughout this process, we stayed true to the vision of Dusit’s founder, Thanpuying Chanut Piyaoui, and owner, Mr Chanin Donavanik, to showcase Thai culture, art, and gracious service in a way that resonates with contemporary travellers and adapts to evolving preferences. Sustainability remains a core focus for Dusit, and this commitment is also reflected in the new hotel’s design and operations. Ultimately, we aim to deliver an unparalleled guest experience while preserving the warmth and service that have always been synonymous with the Dusit Thani name.”   Ms Natapa Sriyuksiri, Managing Director – Dusit Estate and Group Creative Strategy, Dusit International, said that the main challenge in designing the new Dusit Thani Bangkok was capturing the essence of the original hotel’s warmth and character while ensuring a fresh, modern aesthetic. “The original Dusit Thani Bangkok had a soul all of its own, and our goal was to translate that spirit into a contemporary space equipped for the future,” said Ms Sriyuksiri. “We started by reinterpreting the original hotel’s unique design elements through a modern lens. This involved studying the hotel’s distinctive interiors and architecture to identify patterns we could modernise or reference in new creations.” Envisaged by Architects 49 International Limited and OMA Asia Hong Kong Limited, a division of the esteemed Office for Metropolitan Architecture (OMA), renowned for its groundbreaking contributions to architecture and urban planning, the new hotel’s architecture pays homage to the unique style of its predecessor. Its elegant interiors, exquisitely crafted by internationally acclaimed Asian interior design firm, André Fu Studio, seamlessly blend the original hotel’s rich heritage with contemporary Thai aesthetics, incorporating warm colour tones and subtle traditional motifs for a modern interpretation of classic Thai artistry and craftsmanship. Further honouring the hotel’s storied past, a signature ‘Heritage Floor’ designed by Thai interior design firm P49 Deesign & Associates Co. Ltd captures the spirit of the original property. This floor is adorned with exclusive artworks by local artists, each inspired by the hotel’s legacy. The reimagined Dusit Thani Bangkok goes beyond design to celebrate its heritage. The original hotel’s iconic golden spire, a beloved landmark, has returned and is now contained within a new, three-times-larger spire. Guests can also admire paintings and murals from the original hotel’s Benjarong Thai Restaurant, including the restaurant’s meticulously preserved main pillars, which were carefully removed and reinstalled in the new hotel’s main lobby. The intricate carved teak ceiling from the same restaurant has also been meticulously reassembled and given a new life within the new hotel. “By reimagining elements from the original Dusit Thani Bangkok and focusing on exquisite craftsmanship throughout the entire design process – from architecture to décor to furnishings – we’ve woven a connection between the hotel’s past and present, creating a timeless harmony guests will experience throughout the entire new hotel,” said Ms Sriyuksiri.   The four key pillars of Dusit Graciousness – Service (personalised and gracious), Locality (uniquely linking guests to the local community), Well-being (delivering wellness experiences beyond the spa); and Sustainability (social, economic, and environmental) – that inspire the guest experience at Dusit Hotels and Resorts worldwide also influenced the new hotel’s design.   “Dusit Thani hotels, wherever they are in the world, are carefully designed to serve as a unique reflection of the communities they serve, creating places to see and be seen, and bringing value far beyond the property’s walls,” said Ms Sriyuksiri. ‘The new Dusit Thani Bangkok is the epitome of this commitment. No inch of space has been wasted in our pursuit of hospitality excellence. With an unrivalled Thai-inspired design that becomes progressively more modern towards the building’s golden spire, we’ve gone to great lengths to ensure the aesthetics of each area serve as the stage for lasting memories to be made. There’s a genuine sense of theatre, too. Large, open windows in the ballroom and lobby seamlessly connect the hotel’s vibrant energy with the surrounding Lumpini Park, showcasing both the stunning cityscape and the exciting events happening within. This innovative design ensures the new Dusit Thani Bangkok stands out as a unique landmark, a true icon for a new era of Thai hospitality.”   Beyond aesthetics, the new Dusit Thani Bangkok also incorporates Feng Shui principles for a holistic guest experience. “Our goal,” explained Mr Somkiat Lo-Chindapong, Deputy Managing Director of Architects 49 Limited (A49), “was to seamlessly integrate world-class design with the legacy of the original hotel, and this included marrying ancient Feng-Shui wisdom about wind and water with modern architecture. This approach is evident in the building’s positioning within Dusit Central Park, ensuring each

News

German firms make beeline for China

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NANJING: Philipp Kortum, chief financial officer of TUV Rheinland, a renowned German testing and certification services provider, is astounded by the swift completion of the second phase of its laboratory in Taicang, a county-level city in East China’s Jiangsu province. Completed six months ahead of schedule, the Yangtze River Delta operation hub in Taicang, now TUV Rheinland’s largest lab, encompassed a wide array of businesses, from photovoltaics and new energy vehicles to textiles.Neighbouring Shanghai, Taicang, spanning 800 sq km, is known as the “hometown of German enterprises” in China, with over 530 German enterprises flocking here. Beginning in the early 1990s, Taicang spent 14 years attracting its initial 100 German investors, but it only took the city a mere two years to log another 100 German enterprises, from the 400th to the 500th. In the second quarter of this year, foreign direct investment from Germany into China reached 4.8bil, nearly double the amount recorded in the first three months, bringing the total for the first half to 7.3bil. By comparison, the total investment stood at 6.5bil in 2023, as reported by the Financial Times, citing data from Germany’s central bank. In April, BMW announced an additional investment of 20 billion yuan in its Shenyang production base, following two decades of rapid expansion in the northeastern Chinese city. In 2023, the BMW Group delivered over 820,000 BMW and BMW Mini vehicles in the Chinese market. This investment will be allocated to upgrading and technologically innovating BMW Brilliance Automotive Ltd’s Dadong plant. “The planned investment not only reflects our confidence in China’s long-term economic prospects, but also in the innovation capabilities of our Chinese partners,” said Oliver Zipse, chairman of the board of management of BMW AG. “German companies approach investment decisions with a strong focus on market potential and profitability, carefully analysing global markets to identify regions with the highest opportunities and growth potential,” said Zheng Chunrong, director of the German Studies Centre at Tongji University. Michael Schumann, chairman of the board of the German Federal Association for Economic Development and Foreign Trade, emphasised that what previously had to be imported from Germany or other parts of Europe is now sourced from China. This shift has led to the creation of production models such as “In China, For China” and “In China, For the World”. “Over 90% of German leading global companies have partnerships with China. Any company aspiring to lead in the global market must collaborate with China,” said Walter Doring, chairman of the Academy of German Hidden Champions. German firms embedded in the Chinese market face bright prospects and continued growth opportunities that will enhance competitiveness worldwide, Doring added. “In our many years of working with German companies, we have found that they place great importance on the stability of China’s business environment and prefer to formulate their own development plans based on the long-term planning of the Chinese government,” said Wang Xiangyuan, Party chief of Taicang. — Xinhua

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