Tianci International: Empowering Global Logistics and Supply Chain Efficiency. In the era of global trade, Tianci International has been steadily advancing in the shipping logistics industry, achieving remarkable growth and success by leveraging the comprehensive solutions provided by its subsidiary Roshing. These solutions include container transportation and bulk cargo services tailored to meet customer needs in Southeast Asia (Japan, South Korea, Vietnam).
For container transportation, Roshing optimizes cargo hold allocation and designs efficient routes based on product characteristics, time constraints, and cost considerations. This ensures safe, timely delivery while balancing costs and efficiency.
In bulk cargo transportation, Roshing provides specialized services for commodities like ores, coal, and grains. From port reservations to ship leasing, Roshing offers one-stop solutions that reduce costs and improve reliability through market analysis and efficient vessel scheduling.
Media contact Brand Name : Tianci International Contact Person: Marketing Team Email:ir@rqscapital.com Website: tianci-ciit.com
The Institute of Corporate Directors Malaysia (“ICDM” or “the Institute”) recently convened its 8th Annual General Meeting with key advancements signalling a decisive move forward in its mission to elevate corporate governance. In a bold continuation of its 2024 call for boards and directors to ‘step up or step out’ amidst a time of tremendous change and uncertainty, ICDM is embracing an ethos of ‘Being More’ by championing significant new initiatives. Among the pivotal developments highlighted at the AGM, ICDM is putting a strong emphasis on the upcoming launch of a national Professional Directors Certification Framework (“PDCF”) and the execution of the leadership transition.
These key steps forward underscore the Institute’s unwavering commitment to tangible and measurable stewardship, especially in applying the principles of good governance across their organisations. In their 2024 reflection, ICDM encouraged corporate directors to unlearn outdated mindsets, relearn what the future demands, and embrace innovation with courage and a relentless commitment to board excellence and their continuous development. To this end, ICDM’s efforts to professionalise directors and boards will be formalised via a framework that outlines clear standards and qualifications for directors and boards in the later part of 2025.
Michele Kythe Lim, President & Chief Executive Officer (CEO) said, “The very future of an organisation depends on the precise and integral leadership of boards and directors. Therefore, they must champion governance, accountability, and performance standards with the same rigour they demand from the companies they oversee. As the national IoD, we are committed to these standards, a commitment proven by an independent Board and Director Effectiveness Evaluation (BDEE) of our own board, which reaffirmed our strengths. Our early structured succession plan further underscores our dedication to organisational growth and mission fulfilment and the Institute has put in place initiatives and achieved many milestones that have brought us to this point. I couldn’t be prouder of the team and am confident that in ICDM, soon to be under Jackie’s capable leadership and with the unwavering support of the board, we will continue to set the bar high.
These milestones and initiatives, highlighting ICDM’s robust growth, include:
Community Expansion: Grew to over 1,500 individual members and 127 corporate members, 64% of which represent public-listed companies (PLCs) with the remaining 36% from the private and public sectors.
Programme Delivery & Training: Delivered over 500 programmes and trained more than 30,000 directors, with increasing participation in development programmes like Aspiring Directors Immersion Programme (ADIP) and Leading for Impact (LIP).
Revenue Growth (2024 vs. 2023):
Overall Revenue: Increased by 53%.
Leading for Impact (LIP) Programme Revenue: Increased by 172%.
Membership and Director Sourcing Revenue: Increased by 52%.
Board Remuneration Reviews Revenue: Increased by 56%.
Bespoke Programmes Revenue: Increased by 24%.
Aspiring Directors Immersion Programme (ADIP) Revenue: Increased by 211%.
Directors Registry: Features 1,264 pre-screened, board-ready candidates.
Female Representation in Registry: Rose to 38% in 2024, a significant increase from 33% in 2023.
ICDM will launch the PDCF later this year – a structured, competency-based pathway for directors and for the industry and companies, globally aligned and with a benchmarked baseline qualification. This is in line with the roadmap set out by the Securities Commission Malaysia towards achieving a resilient and high-performing capital market. This national set of standards aims to significantly accelerate the growth of a diverse and qualified talent pool of directors across both public and private sectors and government-linked boards to help companies achieve optimal board composition from the start.
Jackie Mah, the current Executive Vice President and succeeding President and CEO of ICDM, said, “Now more than ever, companies, boards and directors are pressing for qualified leaders and peers who uphold uncompromising standards of professionalism and ethical conduct. Just as we hold employees of organisations to certain standards and evaluate them with clear key performance indicators, Boards and Directors should also have mechanisms in place to evaluate their performance and development. The PDCF is not just a certification-it is a commitment to ensuring exemplary standards and quality of leadership among directors across the public and private sectors to meet rigorous, clearly defined benchmarks. More importantly, it will strengthen board effectiveness at scale and safeguard the future success of businesses and organisations.”
Since its inception in 2018, ICDM has championed diversity, inclusion, and sustainability in boardrooms. They have expanded their services to include independent board and director effectiveness evaluations (BDEE), board skills matrix, and director sourcing, achieving a 69% success rate in director placements, including women and first-time directors. To further impact governance, ICDM has led regional initiatives like the ASEAN Board Trends Report and ASEAN Directors Registry, and formed strategic partnerships with IOD UK and other regional IoDs, the 30% Club Malaysia, and Climate Governance Malaysia, aiming to elevate board leadership across borders. Additionally, ICDM provides the Mandatory Accreditation Programme (MAP) and Leading for Impact (LIP) for professional development, empowering boards with essential competencies. They also offer comprehensive board advisory and consultancy services, including coaching and mentoring. ICDM engages in advocacy through its network and external stakeholders, expanding its training and advisory services to include sustainability and ESG.
About the Institute of Corporate Directors Malaysia (ICDM):
The Institute of Corporate Directors Malaysia (ICDM) is a membership-based organisation whose mandate is to professionalise directorship in Malaysia. As the national institute of directors (IoD), ICDM is committed to providing continuous professional development – empowering boards and directors with forward-thinking mindsets, practical knowledge and essential competencies. Established by the Securities Commission Malaysia (SC) and supported by Bank Negara Malaysia, Bursa Malaysia and the Capital Market Development Fund (CMDF), ICDM’s goal is to be the leading influence of excellence in governance and to build a robust corporate governance culture in Malaysia. For more information on ICDM, please visit our website at www.icdm.com.my For any media enquiries, please contact: Imelia Kyra, Narro Communications E: imelia@narrocomms.com
Transoft Solutions,a global leader in transportation engineering, analysis, and operations software, is pleased to announce that it has acquired CGS Labs, developers of specialized software solutions for transport infrastructure design, weather information systems and environmental monitoring.
Transoft Solutions Acquires CGS Labs
CGS Labs’ Civil Solutions suite of BIM software for engineering design, construction and maintenance is an exciting addition to Transoft’s Civil & Transportation portfolio. While Transoft has had a long-standing relationship with CGS that involved several product collaborations, both companies have simultaneously been key competitors in the EMEA region with their respective AutoTURN and Autopath swept path analysis products.
“We highly anticipate the potential of synergy between CGS’s comprehensive design platform and Transoft’s existing products”, said Daniel Shihundu, CEO at Transoft Solutions. “Customers can expect a more robust and broad offering from Transoft’s road design solutions with the combined technologies from both companies and joint expertise of two seasoned teams who have both been major players in the market over the past thirty years. We are also very excited about adding a new dimension to Transoft’s current offerings with CGS’s rail and waterways design software and predictive road weather applications for environmental impact mitigation.”
CGS Co-founder, Matjaz Šajn, said “We are delighted to become part of the Transoft Solutions success story. Over the past 35 years, CGS Labs has developed unique software solutions trusted by users worldwide. By joining forces with Transoft, we will be able to create synergies and strengthen our position as one of the leading global software development players in the field of transportation. CGS Labs brings deep expertise in BIM and weather information systems to the combined company. We are also pleased to see that the values and visions of both teams are closely aligned. Looking ahead, we anticipate exciting new opportunities for learning, collaboration, and product innovation for all of us.”
CGS is headquartered in Ljubljana, Slovenia with three additional offices in Germany, Serbia, and the Czech Republic. With a highly qualified team of around 25 employees and contractors, CGS is a strong cultural fit with Transoft, each similarly being in operation for around three decades.
CGS’ strong representation in Eastern Europe complements Transoft’s distribution in Western Europe. Together, the companies expect to grow sales of each other’s products in their respective regions.
About Transoft Solutions Transoft Solutions develops innovative and highly specialized software for aviation, civil infrastructure, and transportation professionals. Since 1991, Transoft has remained focused on safety-oriented solutions that enable transportation professionals to work effectively and confidently. Our portfolio of planning, simulation, modeling, and design solutions are used in over 150 countries serving more than 50,000 customers across local and federal agencies, consulting firms, airport authorities, and ports. We take pride in providing the highest quality of customer support from our headquarters in Canada, and through our offices in Sweden, Slovenia, the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Australia, Germany, India, Belgium, France, Spain, and China.
For more information on Transoft’s range of aviation, civil design, planning, and transportation safety and operations solutions, visit us at: transoftsolutions.com
Technical Innovation Excellence Drives Data Governance and Corporate Sustainability
CITIC Telecom International CPC Limited (CITIC Telecom CPC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CITIC Telecom International Holdings Limited (HKG: 1883) is pleased to announce that its innovative solution, AI Databank, has won a Silver Medal at The 50th International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva[i]. This international accolade reaffirms the company’s outstanding performance in AI business applications and its top-notch research and innovation capabilities.
The globally prestigious International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva is an annual highlight in the innovation and technology sector, gathering leading researchers to unveil their latest cutting-edge research and inventions. This year’s event was held in Switzerland from April 9 to 13, bringing together global innovative ideas. It featured over 1,000 inventions from 35 countries and regions, with close to 300 entries from Hong Kong. All the award-winning entries were evaluated by an international jury of 135 specialists. CITIC Telecom CPC’s AI Databank earned international recognition for its groundbreaking AI data governance technology, demonstrating significant practical value and market potential. This accolade underscores the company’s core strengths in research and innovation.
Mr. Brook Wong, Chief Executive Officer of CITIC Telecom CPC, said, “It is a great honor to receive this international accolade. The international recognition of our AI Databank underscores CITIC Telecom CPC’s innovative prowess and forward-looking deployment in AI. This achievement reflects our team’s technical excellence and reinforces our dedication to ‘Innovation Never Stops.’ Moving forward, we will remain on deepening our commitment to AI and technological innovation, allowing us to deliver more solutions that drive digital transformation in the global market, while offering world-class services and fostering high-quality international business growth. Heartfelt congratulations to our award-winning team, I look forward to their continued success in setting global standards of excellence.”
Cutting-edge Patented Technology: A Unified Platform to Overcome Data Silos CITIC Telecom CPC’s AI Databank is an advanced intelligent data platform that utilizes smart algorithms and big data analysis to accelerate enterprises in achieving secure and efficient data governance, realizing cross-system integration, and generating insightful analytical reports. It also facilitates the collection, monitoring, and compliance reporting of ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) data. The platform seamlessly integrates big data, AI, large language models (LLM) and generative AI to create a unified data platform. Not only can it eliminate data silos, but it can also seamlessly enable cross-system integration and extract valuable business insights by synthesizing structured and unstructured data. With the certified “A Big Data Business Intelligence Reporting System Based on AI Q&A” as its core patented technology, AI Databank is designed for multi-industry enterprises, business teams, and data analysts. This innovative and AI-driven business intelligence reporting system is centered on user-friendliness and its unified analytical capability. To illustrate, the integration of big data storage architecture and large language model assistant empowers users without technical expertise to conduct cross-database queries, process data, and visualize analysis through natural language query (NLQ), making insight generation effortless.
Empowering Multinational Companies with Data Governance for a Sustainable Future AI Databank redefines enterprise-level data governance framework through its unified data platform and innovative technologies. Backed by CITIC Telecom CPC’s teams of experts, it resolves the challenges of data silos and compliance management faced by multinational companies. Moreover, the platform enables seamless data integration across regions and systems, intelligently managing multilingual translations and local compliance requirements. This ensures that headquarters can uphold core data standards while subsidiaries or regional branches retain the flexibility of localizing operation. By incorporating cutting-edge AI technologies, the platform is able to quickly generate accurate multinational business reports, provide in-depth analysis of regional market trends and deliver essential insights into product competitiveness and revenue performance, thereby greatly improving decision-making efficiency and operational coherence. AI Databank is a versatile solution and has been successfully deployed in financial firms. Aside from supporting cross-database queries and analysis visualization, it integrates ESG data related to energy consumption and carbon emissions, empowering clients to facilitate sustainable development and implement data-driven business improvements.
About CITIC Telecom CPC We are CITIC Telecom International CPC Limited (“CITIC Telecom CPC”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CITIC Telecom International Holdings Limited (HKG: 1883), serving multinational enterprises the world over by addressing their specific ICT requirements with highly scalable tailored solutions built upon our flagship technology suites, comprising TrueCONNECT™ private network solutions, TrustCSI™ information security solutions, DataHOUSE™ cloud data center solutions, and SmartCLOUD™ cloud computing solutions.
With the motto “Innovation Never Stops,” we leverage innovative technologies to boost technology empowerment (+AI). Embracing AI, AR, Big Data, IoT, and other cutting-edge emerging technologies we aim to unlock technical potential. By integrating deep learning and intelligent data analysis technologies, we transform these technologies into data empowerment (AI+) generative applications, reshaping the Intelligence Operation Journey of enterprises.
With our Global-Local capabilities, we are committed to providing our customers with one-stop-shop ICT solutions with superior quality. Having a worldwide footprint across nearly 160 countries and regions, including Asia, Europe and America, Africa, the Middle East, and Central Asia, our global network resources connect nearly 170 points of presence (POPs), 60+ SDWAN gateways, 20 Cloud service centers, 30+ data centers, and three dedicated 24×7 Security Operations Centers (SOCs). We are certified with a series of international certifications, including SD-WAN Ready, ISO 9001, 14001, 20000, 27001, and 27017, to ensure our services compliance with international standards and resources for enterprises. We offer local professional services, superior delivery capabilities as well as exceptional customer experience and best practices through our global presence and extensive industry know-how, becoming a leading integrated intelligent ICT service provider to enterprise customers.
– Impressive Results Showcase Hong Kong’s Innovation and Technology Strength
Viva Technology 2025 concluded successfully last Saturday with the Hong Kong Tech Pavilion, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, effectively supporting local start-ups in entering the European market.
A series of events, including seminars, start-up pitching sessions, workshop and networking reception and business matching, provided a robust platform for start-ups to demonstrate Hong Kong’s innovation and technology capabilities.
The participating start-ups achieved successful outcomes, including Point Fit Technology, a Hong Kong healthtech start-up, signing a Memorandum of Understanding with Kinomap, a French indoor training platform.
Viva Technology (VivaTech) 2025 in Paris, Europe’s biggest start-up and tech event, concluded last Saturday. TheHong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), in collaboration with Strategic Partner, the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Brussels, and Supporting Organisations including Invest Hong Kong, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), and Hong Kong Cyberport, set up the Hong Kong Tech Pavilion. The Pavilion promoted 20 Hong Kong start-ups to investors and buyers, and hosted seminars, start-up pitching sessions, workshop and networking reception, inviting representatives from various enterprises and organisations to analyse trends in Hong Kong’s start-up ecosystem. Business matching meetings were also arranged to help start-ups explore opportunities in the European market.
Hong Kong tech ventures were the recipients of VivaTech awards including Ailytics Limited, which developed AI-Powered Video Surveillance Systems (AI-VSS) for operations, was awarded among the Top 30 of VivaTech Innovations of the Year Award and was also selected as one of the Top 5 winners of the Startup Challenge organised by Électricité de France (EDF). Imsight Technology, OKOsix, and Vismed Training were nominated as finalists in the VivaTech Tech for Change Award, recognising their positive impact respectively in cancer diagnostics, biomaterial composition, and medical training and care. Braillic Limited, specialising in Augmented Reality (AR) guided surgical navigation systems, was nominated in the Top 12 AI Tech Trail. AQUMON and Midas Analytics, which developed AI-driven wealth management and data analysis solutions, were nominated as the Top 12 FinTech Trail.
The Hong Kong Tech Pavilion also achieved notable success. Point Fit Technology, a healthtech start-up signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Kinomap, a French indoor training platform. Point Fit’s sweat sensor continuously monitors muscle fatigue without invasive blood tests, will integrate their sweat biomarker data into Kinomap’s platform. This will enhance indoor training experiences and expand Point Fit’s sales channels through Kinomap’s global partner network. During VivaTech, Point Fit Technology’s research attracted international interest. Kenny Oktavius, Co-founder & CEO of Point Fit Technology Limited, said: “Apart from signing an MoU with Kinomap, we also linked up with a top European football club, and secured key partners that will help us to further penetrate the European market.”
Founded in Singapore with an international office in Hong Kong, Ailytics’ AI-VSS products are used to enhance safety and maximise productivity by leveraging existing cameras. The company is in discussion with EDF and will conduct a trial run at EDF’s new power plants in France. Wei Zhuang Tan, CEO, Ailytics said: “We received enormous resources and support in Hong Kong, especially from HKTDC and HKSTP to expand into the international market. Through joining the Hong Kong Tech Pavilion at VivaTech, we have met customers and partners and have a deeper understanding about the requirements of French companies.”
Midas Analytics, which introduced its newly launched Asia Market Intelligence platform and AI Agent at VivaTech, drew strong interest from investors, analysts, and strategic partners. Founder Michele De Flippo said: “We have connected with a high-caliber audience that included institutional investors, corporate venture leaders, innovation executives from major banks and consulting firms, and decision-makers from government ecosystems. Through curated business matching sessions organised by the HKTDC and meeting with high-calibre audience, we identified multiple potential partners and expansion opportunities. The interest reinforced both the commercial potential of Midas Analytics and the clear demand in Europe for better visibility into fast-changing Asian markets.”
Professor Sun Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, attended the workshop and networking reception themed under “From Hong Kong to the World: Embarking on the New Journey of Innovation” last Friday. Highlighting that Hong Kong being an ideal gateway for global enterprises to enter the Mainland market, Professor Sun said the HKSAR Government has been actively attracting overseas and the Mainland I&T enterprises to set up or expand their businesses in Hong Kong. Companies choosing HK for the international headquarters exemplify Hong Kong’s important role as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder” between Mainland China and the rest of the world, serving as a two-way springboard for attracting overseas enterprises and helping Mainland enterprises to “go global”.
The subsequent discussions explored the strengths of Hong Kong’s innovation ecosystem, and how to leverage Hong Kong’s advantages to seize new opportunities. Cindy Chow, Executive Director & CEO of Alibaba Entrepreneurs Fund, together viAct, Sandbox VR, and Orcauboat founders, shared their success stories leveraging Hong Kong as the platform for global expansion. Chapman Lee, Director of Imsight Technology Co., Limited, highlighted the strengths of Hong Kong’s R&D capabilities and access to international investment.
According to the Global Startup Ecosystem Report 2025 by Startup Genome, a research institute, during VivaTech 2025, Hong Kong entered the Top 40 ranking for the first time. The ecosystem jumped 20 positions to 27th in the 2025 ranking.
The HKTDC continues to lead Hong Kong businesses in participating in major international tech exhibitions, helping local start-ups expand overseas and reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a global innovation and technology hub. Following the Consumer Electronic Show 2025 in Las Vegas and Mobile World Congress in Barcelona earlier this year, HKTDC once again organised the Hong Kong Tech Pavilion at VivaTech in Paris, providing an effective platform for start-ups to showcase innovations, attract investment, and explore the European market.
The 9th edition of VivaTech attracted more than 14,000 start-ups, 180,000 visitors, and 3,600 investors from 171 countries and regions. Industry leaders from around the world shared unique insights, further making the event a key highlight of the global tech ecosystem.
About HKTDC The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) is a statutory body established in 1966 to promote, assist and develop Hong Kong’s trade. With over 50 offices globally, including 13 in Mainland China, the HKTDC promotes Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub. The HKTDC organises international exhibitions, conferences and business missions to create business opportunities for companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), in the mainland and international markets. The HKTDC also provides up-to-date market insights and product information via research reports and digital news channels. For more information, please visit: www.hktdc.com/aboutus.
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.(GA-ASI), the world leader in unmanned aircraft from the iconic Predator® to the YFQ-42A Collaborative Combat Aircraft, has unveiled a new small uncrewed launched effect with widespread multi-mission capabilities for the global aerospace and defense market.
Inspired by Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of powerful natural forces in the Pacific, the Precision Exportable Launched Effect – PELE – is a small, attrition-tolerant, propeller-driven unmanned aircraft designed to extend the sensing and other capabilities of a mothership aircraft and its user service. PELE is a semi-autonomous unmanned aircraft system (UAS) with an 11-foot wingspan and 16-horsepower engine that extends user reach within challenging environments with potent effects. PELE also could be launched from the ground.
The new PELE is optimized for use on the MQ-9B SkyGuardian®, the world’s foremost medium-altitude, long-endurance, multi-mission uncrewed aircraft. MQ-9B is in use or being considered for use by a growing number of nations around the world. PELE can fly with an onboard electro-optical infrared sensor for full-motion video as well as other integral sensors. The aircraft also has internal stowage for its own mission payloads.
“PELE brings even more versatility to growing MQ-9B fleets around the world,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “On one day, an air force might fly an MQ-9B with no external payloads to maximize its patrol time. Then on the next day, the same aircraft could take off and fly with several PELEs that would stand in against the adversary and take the immediate risks to preserve the larger aircraft.”
For example, MQ-9B might approach a contested boundary from international waters and release PELE to scout through the disputed zone to assess a hostile force’s order of battle or detect and precisely geo-locate anti-air systems. PELE is 9 feet in length, has a maximum gross takeoff weight of 250 pounds, 7 hours of endurance and range of 500 nautical miles.
About GA-ASI General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., is the world’s foremost builder of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Logging more than 8 million flight hours, the Predator® line of UAS has flown for over 30 years and includes MQ-9A Reaper®, MQ-1C Gray Eagle® 25M, MQ-20 Avenger®, and MQ-9B SkyGuardian®/SeaGuardian®. The company is dedicated to providing long-endurance, multi-mission solutions that deliver persistent situational awareness and rapid strike.
Avenger, EagleEye, Gray Eagle, Lynx, Predator, Reaper, SeaGuardian, and SkyGuardian are trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., registered in the United States and/or other countries.
GA-ASI Features Full-Size Model of New YFQ-42A CCA for Affordable Mass and Air Dominance
General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc.(GA-ASI) returns to Paris in 2025 with a variety of new products and concepts highlighting the future of uncrewed airpower at its stand in Hall 3, B-176, beginning June 16. The centerpiece of the exhibit is a full-scale model of GA-ASI’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), dubbed YFQ-42A by the U.S. Air Force, in its first international showing.
“We’re excited to show off the design of our new YFQ-42A CCA at the largest aviation event of the year,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “We know the world is paying attention to our CCA development. Ground tests are underway, and we look forward to first flight in the coming weeks, as we once again rewrite the rules of airpower.”
The CCA is one of the many products and capabilities showcased by GA-ASI in Paris. Other products the company will highlight include its growing line of unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), including the MQ-9B SkyGuardian® and SeaGuardian®, and the ability to configure the MQ-9B platform with short takeoff and landing (STOL), as well as the development of an Airborne Early Warning (AEW) capability for MQ-9B.
The stand will also feature a demonstration of its new release of TacSit-C2®, GA-ASI’s tactical situational awareness software for payload Command and Control (C2) that enables operators to plan and execute missions as part of GA’s Quadratix software enterprise.
About GA-ASI General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., is the world’s foremost builder of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS). Logging more than 8 million flight hours, the Predator® line of UAS has flown for over 30 years and includes MQ-9A Reaper®, MQ-1C Gray Eagle® 25M, MQ-20 Avenger®, and MQ-9B SkyGuardian®/SeaGuardian®. The company is dedicated to providing long-endurance, multi-mission solutions that deliver persistent situational awareness and rapid strike.
Avenger, EagleEye, Gray Eagle, Lynx, Predator, Reaper, SeaGuardian, and SkyGuardian are trademarks of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc., registered in the United States and/or other countries.
ESCAPE Recordsreleases two transcendent works from its secretive Mojave Desert hub in Pioneertown CA: the Parallel Universe EP, a genre-defying musical odyssey from touring electronic artists and industry veterans, and Gong Song! (Live from Escape, Pioneertown CA), a 45-minute sound healing masterpiece by Alessandra Montana.
Naturally Occurring Emoji – BEEPLE
Everyday from BEEPLE. Cover of Parallel Universe EP. Courtesy of Escape Records LLC.
Crafted where social media fades to the obscure and creativity thrives, these two new records aim to forge deep audience connections – inspiring a sense of solidarity between the creative and their audience.
The Parallel Universe EP blends electronic, Americana, and Latin vibes, born during a songwriting retreat at ESCAPE’s legendary studio, some 40 miles from the gates of Coachella in the high desert of California, a mile above sea level under a myriad of stars. Listeners are invited to ponder what their life would be like in a parallel universe; evoking poignant emotions in today’s somewhat turbulent world.
Tracks are shared by studio founder and producer ROC Gardner, Latin Grammy-nominated Cimafunk (La Vida), Jamie N Commons (Hold Me While You Wait), DJ Tennis (Life and Death), and Grammy-nominated Jan Blomqvist (Remote Control), joined by producers Joseph Ray (Nero), Daniel Cantisani, Nikko Gibler (Ricoshēi), and Devlin Thorn alongside artists that include Kim Bullard (Elton John) and Craig McClune (David Gray) who lent their expertise to evolving the tracks.
Mixed by Mick Guzauski (Daft Punk, The Weeknd, Michael Jackson) and mastered by Bernie Grundman, tracks include Mezcalita (June 13), Happy Unhappy (June 20), La Sugar (June 27), and Never Know (July 4). BEEPLE’s surreal artwork Naturally Occurring Emoji and an AI-driven video by The Dor Brothers amplify the EP’s cosmic narrative.
“The universal sky we spent each night under sparked something raw,” says ROC. “It was awesome breaking out of our channels – we got to capture all these ideas, unbound by trends or any other concerns – it was great fun!”
Simultaneously, Alessandra Montana’s Gong Song! (Live from Escape) captures a live 45-minute sound journey, recorded meticulously with vintage gear and microphones at ESCAPE. Guided by mixing engineer Rob Columbus and mastered by Grundman, Montana’s gongs and sacred instruments weave a meditative portal for healing.
“Escape’s magic let me share my practice globally. I can’t wait for people to hear this and experience the journey we went on,” says Montana.
ESCAPE, a 140-acre creative haven hosting Rüfüs Du Sol, Arctic Monkeys, Usher, RAYE – and many others – fosters unfiltered artistry. The studio hopes to deliver magic – and its music – unfettered and unfiltered.
Ria Money Transfer (“Ria”), a global leader in the cross-border money transfer industry and business segment of Euronet Worldwide, Inc. (NASDAQ: EEFT) has been officially approved by the Department of Labour Peninsular Malaysia (JTKSM) for the disbursement of digital wage payments via the Ria Wallet. By streamlining wage distribution through digital means, the Ria Prepaid Card Program, in collaboration with Mastercard, provides an omni-channel solution to employers who may struggle with conventional banking access for their workforce.
The Ria Wallet facilitates various financial activities such as depositing funds, withdrawing cash from ATMs, paying bills, and conducting domestic and international transfers. Customers will also be able to make payments in millions of locations in Malaysia via QR payment linked to DuitNow. In addition, the Ria Wallet streamlines payroll management for Malaysia-based companies throughout industries heavily dependent on migrant workers, including construction, agriculture, and manufacturing.
According to the International Organization of Migration (“IOM”), migrants represent an estimated 15.3% of Malaysia’s total workforce, many of whom are unbanked. The Ria Wallet addresses the challenges faced by both workers and employers in the country’s cash-centric payment landscape.
Ria’s presence in Malaysia since 2001 has positioned Ria as one of the leading players in the money transfer industry. Leveraging its strong physical network of 624,000 locations worldwide and its presence in nearly 200 countries and territories, Ria aims to provide a diverse and seamless service experience to all customers.
Espen Kristensen, Ria Money Transfer’s Managing Director Asia Pacific, expressed his excitement for the expansion of Ria’s service portfolio in Malaysia. He emphasized, “We understand the challenges employers in Malaysia face when it comes to managing wages for their workers. Through the Ria Wallet, companies will be able to benefit from a digital solution that improves transparency and compliance across their operations”.
In collaboration with Mastercard, The Ria Prepaid Card Program underscores the company’s commitment to driving positive social impact through the financial empowerment of different communities worldwide.
About Ria Money Transfer
Ria Money Transfer, a business segment of Euronet (NASDAQ: EEFT), delivers innovative financial services including fast, secure, and affordable global money transfers. With the world’s largest cross border real-time money movement network, Ria moves money where it matters.
Bridging the gap between digital and physical spaces, Ria’s omnichannel products and services provide unprecedented consumer choice, including real-time payments, mobile wallets, currency exchange, home delivery, and cardless ATM payouts. Ria’s global infrastructure, powered by the Dandelion real-time, cross-border payments network, facilitates financial access to customers, agents and partners alike. By creating new market opportunities and promoting economic growth around the world, Ria opens ways for a better everyday life.
Asia Research & Engagement (ARE), a leading sustainability-focused consultancy and capital markets engagement firm, has expanded its India team with two senior appointments: Shishir Soti, Director, Global Operations and Partnerships and Arun Kumar, Strategic Advisor – Power Markets and Technology Innovation.
Founded in 2013 and headquartered in Singapore, ARE works across Asia’s key economies – including China, India, and Japan – to drive sustainability outcomes through the alignment of capital markets, corporate strategy, and policy. India’s expanding influence in energy, agriculture, and capital markets makes it not just a domestic focus but a regional anchor for accelerating Asia’s net-zero transition.
“India is already making bold strides on its decarbonisation journey,” said Benjamin McCarron, Founder & Managing Director, ARE. “Expanding our footprint here strengthens our ability to connect investor expectations and corporate ambition across the region, from Tokyo to Bangkok to Singapore. India’s scale and innovation are pivotal to designing future-fit systems across all of Asia.”
Shishir Soti brings more than 25 years of experience to ARE, having held senior positions in banking and financial services at institutions including Standard Chartered and ICICI Bank, as well as senior roles at environmental groups such as the Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation and Environmental Defense Fund. At ARE he will help deepen the integration of India into ARE’s regional programmes on financed emissions, sustainable food systems, and transition financing. He will also spearhead stakeholder engagement and fundraising strategy for ARE’s India programmes, advancing efforts to align Indian corporates and banks with net-zero goals.
“India’s ambition to reach net-zero by 2070 has implications far beyond its borders,” said Soti. “Its energy and agricultural transitions will shape supply chains, investment flows, and climate ambition throughout Asia. I’m proud to support ARE’s work connecting policy, capital, and corporate action at this critical intersection.”
Arun Kumar joins ARE with more than 25 years of experience in power markets, technology, and strategy, having held leadership positions at PTC India, HSBC Securities, KPMG and CRISIL where he was consistently ranked among India’s top energy analysts. He will provide strategic insights into regulatory trends, market innovation, and grid decarbonisation.
“ARE’s investor-informed approach has already helped shift conversations in China, Japan, and Southeast Asia,” said Kumar. “India’s power market is on the cusp of transformation, and I look forward to helping shape the trajectory through collaborative engagement and technology foresight.”
Soti and Kumar will work closely with Rituj Sahu, Director – Protein Transition (India), who has been leading ARE’s work on food systems, climate finance, and impact stewardship in India since 2022. Their collective expertise positions ARE to deepen its regional impact across three core pillars: Energy transition and financed emissions engagement with corporates and banks; Sustainable food and agriculture systems, with a focus on the protein transition; Capital mobilisation, bridging global finance with local sustainability outcomes.
The India expansion complements and strengthens ARE’s ongoing work in Singapore, China, Taiwan, Japan, and Thailand – creating a more connected and coordinated platform for sustainable transformation across Asia.
“To solve regional sustainability challenges, we need local intelligence, regional coordination, and global capital alignment,” added McCarron. “India is integral to the systems change ARE is driving across the region.”
About Asia Research & Engagement (ARE)
Creating change through investor-backed engagement. ARE’s pioneering approach fills an engagement gap to bring leading investors into dialogue with Asian-listed companies. ARE currently works with investors representing US$10trillion. ARE covers Asian-listed companies from the financial sector, energy-related industries, and food value chains, seeking to advance a sustainable and compassionate Asia.
For media interviews and further enquiries, please contact Wani Diwakar Asia Research & Engagement (ARE) wani.diwarkar@asiareengage.com
