Category: Construct

BuildTech Asia 2022 Returns with First Physical Exhibition since Covid-19

The 11th edition of BuildTech Asia (BTA) 2022 will return in a hybrid format from 15 – 17 March 2022. The leading platform for the building and construction industry in the Asia Pacific region, BTA 2022 is expected to draw more than 10,000 attendees online and in-person, with a physical exhibition – the first to be held in two years – taking place at the Singapore EXPO.

Themed “Connecting The Future of Asia’s Built Environment”, BTA 2022 will feature more than 120 physical and virtual exhibitors, 44 industry associations and partners from 16 participating countries. After two digital editions in 2020 and 2021, this year’s hybrid event is expected to attract strong participation from representatives in key markets such as Malaysia, Australia, India, Indonesia, Cambodia, the Philippines and Korea – all of which have ongoing Vaccinated Travel Lane arrangements with Singapore.

In line with the Construction Industry Transformation Map (ITM) for the built environment sector launched in 2017, the event will focus on helping industry players accelerate the adoption of digitalised solutions and smart technologies in the key segments of building materials, construction machineries, architectural finishes, facilities management and productive technology. Co-located with BTA 2022 are the in-person Facilities Management Conference (FMC) on 15 and 16 March, as well as the hybrid Constructing Our World (CoW) Conference and physical Construction Safety & Health Conference 2022 on 17 March, where over 40 experts including representatives from Autodesk Construction Solutions, Siemens and ST Engineering will be speaking.

BTA 2022 is a Constellar event. Mr Chua Wee Phong, Chief Executive (Markets) for Constellar said: “We are very much looking forward to the regional building and construction industry coming together again, this time in a hybrid manner including the return of the physical exhibition at BTA 2022. As an annual marque event we are privileged to continue playing a pivotal role in helping industry players map out a sustainable business transformation journey, foster new partnerships, and plug into a comprehensive global network of industry experts and peers.”

Guest-of-Honour Mr. Tan Kiat How, Minister of State, Ministry of Communications and Information & Ministry of National Development, will kick off the event with a launch of the physical exhibition of BTA 2022 at the Singapore EXPO as well as an opening address at FMC 2022. Also happening on opening day are the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Constellar and MMI Asia to jointly develop a future event focusing on smart, efficient and green building technologies; and a second MoU between Singapore Institute of Building Limited (SIBL) and Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) pledging greater collaboration for the benefit of its members.

On the physical exhibition floor, visitors can view demonstrations of the latest automated equipment and machinery, join Sandbox sessions designed to address challenges and ideate solutions, and visit over 80 physical showcases featuring new technological developments including charging stations for electric cars by Kyo Ei Denko, which will have a Tesla Model 3 on-site for demonstration, and construction project management tool Finalcad One, which helps teams collaborate and monitor field information in real time to enhance the safety and productivity of worksites.

At the centre of the exhibition space, the Smart Innovation Pavilion will showcase the latest digitalised solutions and smart technologies, featuring exhibitors such as Autodesk with its state-of-the-art Building Information Modeling (BIM) software, also widely known as the industry standard in Singapore; other highlights include a Smart Toilet System by Convergent Smart Technologies, a maintenance free technology that employs a people density counter and ammonia sensor to improve cleaning productivity, as well as the Thouzer robotic weight-bearing cart by Doog International, the only collaborative autonomous robotic solution with affordable pricing in the market.

Convening industry leaders to chart the path forward

To meet rising construction demand in a post-pandemic world, industry players are coming together at BTA 2022 to find solutions that will accelerate their digital transformation and help them boost productivity from conception and design-build, to operation and maintenance.
To that effect, the 5th edition of FMC will provide new perspectives on facilities management post COVID-19. The 2-day conference will focus on innovations for a sustainable and smart built environment, supporting the Building and Construction Authority’s push for more FM teams to adopt advanced technologies that can help to increase productivity and foster better sustainability outcomes. Dr. Teo Ho Pin, a former Member of Parliament and Mayor, will deliver the keynote address on 15 March 2022 about the evolution of facilities management for a complex future.

The CoW Conference 2022 will address key issues pertaining to climate change, sustainability, innovation and human development within the construction sector. Themed “Pivoting towards a Greater Resilience”, the conference aims to catalyse conversation around the globe on topics such as the education and training required to groom the builders of the future and strategies in keeping up with the demands of new technology. Mr. Chee Hong Tat, NTUC Deputy Secretary-General, will be giving the opening remarks as the Guest-of-Honour of the conference.

Top decision-makers and industry leaders from the built environment sector will also be gathering at the invite-only Industry Transformation Roundtable on the first day of BTA 2022. On the third day of the event, physical attendees can join the free Construction Safety & Health Conference 2022, held at the Singapore EXPO & MAX Atria, focusing on how the pandemic is shaping safety and health in the construction sector.

The digital platform for BTA 2022 will also provide enhanced networking opportunities and improved business matching features to help forge stronger connections between industry professionals, thought leaders, delegates and exhibitors around the region.

SIBL is the organiser of CoW and co-organiser of FMC with Constellar. SIBL President Dr Sussie Ketit, said: “Singapore Institute of Building Limited (SIBL) is pleased to co-present the hybrid edition of BTA 2022 with Constellar. This event comes at an important time to facilitate industry growth, providing a platform for built environment professionals to discover new innovations and collaborative opportunities that will help them grow more resilient against disruptions in the future.”

Registration is still open at https://bit.ly/3d9sQL7

For more information, please visit www.buildtechasia.com or follow our social media channels for live updates to the event: LinkedIn @BuildTechAsia, Facebook @buildtechforasia, Instagram @buildtechasia_official, Youtube @BuildtechAsia

About BuildTech Asia

BuildTech Asia is the Asia Pacific premier platform for the built environment sector which showcases the latest smart solutions and productive technologies across the entire building life-cycle. With international and regional brands showcasing the most comprehensive exhibiting profile such as onsite construction machinery & equipment, building materials & solutions, architectural & quality finishes, productive technologies, facilities management, and infrastructure solutions to help accelerate the built environment sector to build faster and smarter. The annual event provides a gateway into Asia to network with a wide range of practitioners, technology experts, industry players, developers, agents, and distributors in the building and construction industry.

About Constellar

Constellar connects a global eco-system of event partners and consumers through a holistic portfolio of intellectual property (IP) in the Meetings, Incentives, Conventions and Exhibitions (MICE) industry.

As Asia’s partner of reference for curating innovative event and venue experiences, Constellar activates impactful networks to bring global markets, businesses and consumers together for sustainable growth. With our expertise and dedication, we are invested in helping you build trusted relationships with stakeholders for the long term and enabling cross-industry collaboration through world-class audience engagement solutions.

Constellar is headquartered in Singapore. Founded in 2021, it brings together decades of experience with an intrepid team of experience specialists around the world. Visit www.constellar.co for more information.

Issued by Constellar

For media enquiries and interview requests, please contact:

Dax Lim Manager, Content & Communications Constellar Group Pte Ltd
Tel: +65 9109 6133 Email: dax.lim@constellar.co

Constellar Communications
Email: comms@constellar.co

Mainboard-listed BBR awarded S$363 million contract for design and construction of Pasir Ris East Station for Cross Island Line 1

Mainboard-listed BBR Holdings (S) Ltd (“BBR” or “the Group”) today announced that the Land Transport Authority (“LTA”) has awarded a S$363 million civil contract for the design and construction of Pasir Ris East station, under the first phase of the Cross Island Line (CRL1), to Singapore Engineering & Construction Pte. Ltd. and Sinohydro Corporation Limited (Singapore Branch) Joint Venture.

Mr Andrew Tan, BBR’s Chief Executive Officer said: “We are delighted in winning the LTA’s contract for the Pasir Ris East Station for Cross Island Line 1. Together with our joint venture partner Sinohydro Corporation, we will do our best to make the project a success.”

Singapore Engineering and Construction Pte Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of BBR. It is one of Singapore’s most established civil engineering and construction specialists. The company’s previous projects included the construction of Tai Seng Facility Building which serves the Downtown Line and the widening of Keppel Viaduct.

Construction works for the CRL1 Pasir Ris East station are expected to start in the second quarter of this year, with passenger service expected to commence in 2030.

BBR Holdings (S) Ltd (For more information: www.bbr.com.sg)

BBR Holdings (S) Ltd (“BBR”) is one of Singapore’s leading construction groups with more than 25 years of industry experience. It currently comprises four core business segments spanning across General Construction, Specialised Engineering, Property Development and Green Technology. The BBR Group is well-positioned to meet the urbanisation challenge in Asia with its proven track record and good combination of innovative engineering with specialist know-how in construction methods. It has business presence in key markets such as Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and the Philippines. Listed in 1997 on SESDAQ, SGX’s then second board, BBR was subsequently upgraded to the Mainboard in September 2006.

About the CRL1

CRL1 is Singapore’s eighth MRT line. It will serve existing and future developments in the eastern, north- eastern and western corridors, linking major hubs such as Jurong Lake District, Punggol Digital District and Changi region. CRL1 is 29 kilometres long and comprises 12 stations from Aviation Park to Bright Hill. This will serve residential and industrial areas in Loyang, Tampines, Pasir Ris, Defu, Hougang, Serangoon North and Ang Mo Kio and benefit more than 100,000 households. With CRL1, common recreational spaces such as Changi Beach Park and Bishan-Ang Mo Kio Park will be more accessible by public transport. Studies on the details of subsequent CRL phases are ongoing. The CRL will have almost half of its stations as interchanges with other rail lines, making it easier and more convenient for commuters to travel across the rail network.

Reference: https://bit.ly/3JeuEj5

Issued on behalf of BBR Holdings (S) Ltd by Waterbrooks Consultants Pte Ltd

Media and Analysts Contact

BBR Holdings (S) Ltd
Ms Chew Nam Yeo
Chief Financial Officer
Tel: +65 6546 5276
Email: chew.ny@bbr.com.sg

Waterbrooks Consultants Pte Ltd
Tel: +65 6958 8002
Wayne Koo
Mobile: +65 9338 8166
Email: wayne.koo@waterbrooks.com.sg

Civil Engineering PCL (SET: CIVIL) begins SET trading on 27 Jan

Technology-driven construction management, pursuing public and private works, to become a leading construction firm with sustainable growth.

Civil Engineering PCL (SET: CIVIL), Thailand’s leading integrated construction and civil engineering firm, made a debut on the Stock Exchange of Thailand on Thursday, 27 January, with the ‘CIVIL’ symbol. Its launch is marked by operations which are capable of achieving net profit margins above the industry average.

Piyadit Atsavasirisuk, CEO of Civil Engineering PCL (2nd left), and Pichet Sithiamnuai, President of Bualuang Securities PCL (3rd left), financial advisor and lead underwriter, offered 200,000,000 shares of CIVIL at 4.60 baht per share to investors on 19-21 January with the 1st trading day for CIVIL on the SET today, 27 January.

That capability is resulting from the company’s focus on employing technology to raise efficiency in managing diverse construction projects both in terms of types and sizes; delivering quality and safe works within the specified budget.

CIVIL is also aggressively pursuing public and private projects, along with increasing revenues from its production and distribution of construction materials on its pathway to become a leading construction company with sustainable growth while driving the Thai economy and society.

Piyadit Atsavasirisuk, Chief Executive Officer of CIVIL, expressed confidence that CIVIL’s shares would receive enthusiastic response on the first trading, backed by the company’s track record dating back to over 50 years with over 1,000 large-scale construction projects and major infrastructure schemes being successfully executed.

CIVIL’s experience and expertise are in railway works, double-track railways and high-speed trains; airports; dams and reservoirs; Industrial estates; and other infrastructure construction which aims to use modern technology and innovations to increase business efficiency.

The company has also leveraged of its competitive advantages in terms of civil engineering personnel, machinery and equipment and its own manufacturing plants of building material parts. Those elements have allowed CIVIL to manage project construction costs efficiently, providing quality works within the set budget.

The company has therefore earned the trust from government agencies as a top-rank contractor to underscore its ability to manage large infrastructure projects. CIVIL has planned to introduce modern technology, new methods, modern machinery and tools to constantly take its construction project management to the next levels.

The company is striving to achieve the ‘Economy of Speed’ by employing technology to plan the construction projects from start to finish, as well as adopting modern management principles emphasizing on agility and resilience to adapt to the changing industry.

That will enable CIVIL to increase its capabilities to support the government’s large-scale infrastructure construction expansion plans, in the forms of bidding for projects, participating in public-private investment projects (PPP), and forming business partnership to manage large government projects and expanding works to private clients.

These plans are geared towards capturing opportunities arising from the country’s growing construction industry, striking a balance between construction business and construction project management conducive to generating good returns in terms of gross profit and net profit margin that is consistently outstanding.

At the same time, CIVIL has also applied technology to its plants that make precast concrete, ready mix concrete, asphaltic concrete, pre-stressed concrete and corrugated steel railings (for road-side car barriers) and sewers. This is all about creating good growth for the business group producing and selling construction materials for distribution to business partners and for managing construction projects.

Meanwhile, the company has had its mining concession of limestone, which is the main raw material for construction and cement making, renewed – a move that has enabled CIVIL to maintain good cost management advantages in construction projects.

Piyadit said: “We aim to become a leading construction company with sustainable growth, by applying modern technology to enhance the operational potential in all dimensions to support the management of large-scale state infrastructure projects and private works. We are committed to delivering valuable and safe works under the specified budget to improve people’s quality of life, advancing Thai economy and society.”

Pichet Sithiamnuai, President of Bualuang Securities PCL, as a financial advisor and underwriter of CIVIL, noted that CIVIL has high growth potential with investment opportunities in the public sector’s transportation infrastructure that is in a good growth stage.

This allows the company to tap its outstanding competitive advantages from using technology to enhance project management efficiency, creating an opportunity to participate in public construction projects and expanding its footprints on private schemes.

“All in all, this will enable CIVIL to maintaining the ability to generate good returns from operations. We believe that CIVIL deserves the status of a growth stock that will definitely receive a good response from investors,” said Pichet.

Visit Civil Engineering PCL (SET: CIVIL) at https://www.civilengineering.co.th/en
Released for Civil Engineering PCL by MT Multimedia Co Ltd
Phipop Khongwong (Top), T: +66-81-929-8864; E: pipop.k@mtmultimedia.com

Affordable housing has created huge market potentials for prefabricated buildings

Affordable housing has created huge market potentials for prefabricated and green buildings.

Recently, frequent implementation of affordable housing support policies has created huge market potentials for prefabricated and green buildings. Market analysis pointed out that PC component manufacturers in the prefabricated construction supply chain will be key beneficiaries from these new policies.

As the most preferred brand in the prefabricated construction industry for three consecutive years, Broad Homes (02163.HK) will likely benefit from the recent policy catalysts. To highlight, the Company operates in both to-B and to-C business under its dual mode business model, which gives the Company potential to grasp onto a larger market share in this industry uptrend.

First and second tier cities are actively responding to affordable housing policies.

According to market data, since the beginning of December 2021, the Prefabricated Building Index (931020) rose nearly 10%, driven by discussions during the Politburo meeting in December to further promote construction of affordable housing. Similar discussions also took place during the Central Economic Work Conference, indicating growing interest from high-level officials.

In the past year, affordable housing support policies have been frequently issued. The Politburo meeting mentioned the promotion of affordable housing construction for the first time in April and again in December. In addition, in July, the Politburo discussed the need to accelerate rental housing development and implemented supporting policies surrounding land usage and taxation. During the Central Economic Work Conference in December, discussions surrounding the need to “accelerate the development of the long-term rental housing market, promote the construction of indemnificatory housing, support the commercial housing market and better meet reasonable housing needs of buyers” are highlighted. Huachuang Securities pointed out that both the Politburo meeting and the Central Economic Work Conference have prioritized affordable housing before commercial housing, reiterating high-level officials’ focus on affordable housing.

In terms of specific development goals, the Ministry of Housing and Urban-Rural Development issued the “Notice on the Monitoring and Evaluation of the Development of Affordable Rental Housing in 2021” in November 2021. The notice monitoring and evaluation of the development of affordable rental housing in 2021 in November. The notice outlined that during the “14th Five-Year Plan” period, the supply of affordable rental housing will be largely increased, and the proportion of new affordable rental housing to total new housing supply is targeted to reach 30% or more.

Meanwhile, key first and second tier cities have responded actively to recent policies and announced relevant targets for affordable housing construction during the “14th Five-Year Plan” period. Among them, Beijing, Shanghai, Shenzhen set targets of over 45% for new affordable housing to total new housing supply.

The affordable housing industry is one of the most important application areas for prefabricated buildings. Therefore, the acceleration and expansion of the affordable housing market will generate growing demand for prefabricated buildings.

According to Huachuang Securities’ estimates, the annual new construction area of 123 million sqm corresponds to RMB 446.3 billion in affordable housing related investments, indicating huge volume growth in the affordable housing sector. Considering part of the growth will be hindered by the impact of fluctuations in real estate regulations, the proportion of prefabricated buildings to new construction buildings will continue to increase, benefiting industry leaders in the prefabricated construction sector.

Prefabricated buildings is the most optimal method of construction under the “dual carbon” targets
Prefabricated building refers to the use of modern manufacturing, transportation, installation and scientific management of production in replacement of traditional production where manufacturing process is more scattered, offers lower quality and efficiency, and requires intensive human labor. The key characteristics of prefabricated construction is standardization of architectural designs, industrialization of component production, mechanization of construction, and scientific organization and management. These include residential buildings produced through prefabricated construction methods.

There are two reasons to support why prefabricated buildings best fit affordable housing demands.
Firstly, prefabricated construction method significantly shortens the construction period. Time-saving is the key advantage of prefabricated buildings because early delivery corresponds to earlier collection of rent. According to Everbright Securities’ estimates, assuming rental price of affordable housing is RMB40 per sqm per month, saving 9 months of construction period would correspond to a total cost savings of RMB360 per sqm.

Secondly, prefabricated buildings help reduce environmental burden throughout the construction process. Different from traditional construction methods, prefabricated construction reduces manual operation and on-site wet construction, and incorporates digitally integrated technologies to support the modernization, intelligence, and other green construction characteristics. Prefabricated buildings also best fit the low-carbon building criteria for affordable housing. The “dual carbon” target acts as an important requirement for construction projects and helps guide the industry towards adopting more green methods of construction.

Founded in 2006, Broad Homes is the largest manufacturer of PC components and PC production equipment in China. In November 2010, Broad Homes was listed on the HKEX and is also the first company to IPO in the prefabricated construction sector.

According to Broad Homes’ 2021 Interim Results, the Company’s PC component revenue increased 12.4% YoY to RMB1.138 billion; PC production equipment business increased 306.6% YoY to RMB221 million. The increase in revenue is driven by market expansion and growing demand of PC components.

As the pioneer and leader of China’s construction industrialization, Broad Homes adheres to green development. Guided by the “14th Five-Year Plan” and 2035 targets, the Company aims to continuously improve the quality and efficiency of industrialized production, better serve the need for green and low-carbon development in rural areas, and explore innovative ways to promote the construction of affordable housing.

Broad Home’s innovative prefabricated product development maximizes time value saved from early delivery.

It is worth noting that, in addition to the PC component business on the to-B end, Broad Homes also launched products on the to-C end in the second half of 2021.The three products from the to-C business are highly standardized and fully assembled buildings, including PC high-rise buildings, B-Homes(fully assembled, low-rise/multi-story buildings), and BOX modules.

These products are characterized by their short construction period. It is reported that the multi-story, fully-assembled B-Homes’ main body can be completed in 8 days and delivered with fine decoration within 100 days. This breakthrough in quality and efficiency truly allows the productization of buildings.

Broad Homes noted that the Company has accumulated years of experience through their B-Home business and will bring positive synergy to the new BOX Module product. The amount of new contracts from BOX Module shows that the product is already gaining market traction with the price of fully-prefabricated buildings being lower than cast-in-place buildings. With many projects in the pipeline, the Company will continue to explore innovate application areas for prefabricated buildings.

ACROMEC builds order book, clinches 2 contracts worth approximately S$14 million

ACROMEC Limited (“ACROMEC”, or the “Company” and together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”), an established specialist engineering service provider in the field of controlled environments serving mainly the healthcare, biomedical, pharmaceutical, research and academia sectors, today announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, ACROMEC Engineers Pte Ltd has secured two engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) contracts totalling approximately S$14 million.

The first project is for Neste Asia Pacific Pte Ltd (“Neste”). In its continued effort to expand and improve their Sustainable Fuel and Oil products, Neste has entrusted ACROMEC to design & build a R&D Laboratory and Regional Office. In line with Neste’s strong position as the 4th most sustainable company globally, ACROMEC offers its expertise in sustainable laboratory solutions with strong emphasis in energy conservation, particularly in HVAC system. This is carried out while addressing the safety requirements of the laboratory facility which has a compressed gas distribution system and which deals with flammable substances.

ACROMEC would undertake full turnkey scope, including numerous number of fume hoods, laboratory furniture solutions, builder’s works, HVAC and control system, an efficient laboratory exhaust system, process system dealing with flammables, new sprinkler tank and distribution, and an intensive electrical system network. The project is to start immediately and is to be completed by the second half of the financial year ending 30 September 2022 (FY2022).

The second project is for Performance Specialty Products (Singapore) Pte Ltd, which is part of the DuPont Group, to construct a chemical laboratory at Solaris @ Kallang. This 600-square-metre lab will be designed for research with toxic chemicals, and the project involves fitting out of low-flow fume hoods, modular laboratory furniture solutions, and gas system with critical exhaust that is able to handle hazardous gas. The project is expected to start immediately and be completed by the first half of FY2022.

Said Mr Lim Say Chin, Executive Chairman and Managing Director of ACROMEC, “We are pleased to have secured these contracts during these challenging times, which is a testament to our customers’ continued recognition and confidence in our capabilities to deliver quality work. We are working hard and we will leverage on our extensive track record and proven expertise to actively pursue more contracts.”

The contracts are expected to contribute positively to the earnings per share and net tangible assets per share of the Group for FY2022.

To the best of the Directors’ knowledge, none of the Directors and controlling shareholders of the Company have any interests, direct or indirect, in these contracts, other than through their respective shareholdings in the Company.

About Acromec Limited (SGX Stock Code: 1CH1)

ACROMEC is an established specialist engineering services provider with more than 20 years of experience in the field of controlled environments. The Group has over the years acquired expertise in the design and construction of facilities requiring controlled environments such as laboratories, medical and sterile facilities and cleanrooms.

ACROMEC’s business is divided into two main business segments: (i) Engineering, procurement and construction services, specialising in architectural, and mechanical, electrical and process works within controlled environments; and (ii) Maintenance and repair services of facilities and equipment of controlled environments and their supporting infrastructure.

The Group mainly serves the healthcare, biomedical, pharmaceutical, research and academia, and electronics sectors. ACROMEC counts amongst its customers, hospitals and medical centres, government agencies, research and development companies or agencies, research and development units of multinational corporations, tertiary educational institutions, pharmaceutical companies, semiconductor manufacturing companies, and multinational engineering companies. For more information, please visit www.acromec.com.

Media and Analysts Contact:
Acromec Limited
Mr Jerry Tan
Chief Financial Officer
Tel: +65 6415 0574
Email: jerry.tan@acromec.com

Waterbrooks Consultant Pte Ltd
Mr Wayne Koo
Tel: +65 6958 8008 / +6593388166
Email: wayne.koo@waterbrooks.com.sg, query@waterbrooks.com.sg

This media release has been reviewed by the Company’s sponsor, PrimePartners Corporate Finance Pte. Ltd. (the “Sponsor”). It has not been examined or approved by the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (the “Exchange”) and the Exchange assumes no responsibility for the contents of this document, including the correctness of any of the statements or opinions made or reports contained in this document.

The contact person for the Sponsor is Mr Joseph Au, 16 Collyer Quay, #10-00 Income at Raffles, Singapore 049318, sponsorship@ppcf.com.sg.

ACROMEC announces share swap with biomass-to-energy JV partner, Nutara Investment for joint ownership of Neo Tiew Power through Acropower

Catalist-listed ACROMEC Limited (ACROMEC, or the Company and together with its subsidiaries, the Group), has announced that it has on 11 November 2021 implemented a share swap, in which Nutara Investment Pte Ltd (the JV Partner) would exchange its 30% direct shareholdings in Neo Tiew Power Pte Ltd (Neo Tiew Power), for 30% direct shareholdings in Acropower Pte Ltd (Acropower). For information, Acropower is the vehicle for the Group to carry out its strategic diversification plans into the renewable energy sector.

The share swap, on completion, effectively places Nutara Investment as a fellow shareholder of Acropower, joining ACROMEC and Green Energy Resources Sdn Bhd (the current shareholders of Acropower) whose interest in Acropower would then be 30%, 56% and 14% respectively.

It is to be noted that the effective interest of ACROMEC, the JV Partner, and Green Energy Resources in Neo Tiew Power (including through Acropower) remain unchanged before and after the Share Swap. See illustration below for structure before and after the share swap.

For information, Neo Tiew Power owns and is in the midst of commissioning the biomass-to-energy plant situated at Chew’s Agriculture poultry farm at Neo Tiew Road.

Said Mr. Lim Say Chin, Executive Chairman and Managing Director of ACROMEC, “With this share swap restructuring, we look forward to closer collaboration with our strategic partner, Nutara Investment, in driving forward our renewable energy goals at our biomass-to-energy venture. Nutara Investment effectively moves away from being a mere investor in New Tiew Power, to a fellow valued strategic partner in Acropower. This development will allow the Group to further tap on the technical capabilities, expertise and commercial network of our strategic partner, and provide more opportunities for business development and growth.”

Share Swap Illustration
https://www.acnnewswire.com/pdf/Image/Low_Acromec20211115.jpg

The transactional documents executed to implement the share swap comprise, inter alia, a conditional share subscription agreement and a joint venture agreement.

Amongst the effect of the documents signed, the commitment letter, which earlier allows the JV Partner exit rights if Neo Tiew Power becomes insolvent, or is unable to meet certain agreed financial performance benchmarks for the financial year ending 30 September 2023, becomes invalidated.

None of the Directors or controlling shareholders of the Company or their respective associates has any interest, direct or indirect, in the Share Swap other than through their respective directorships and/or shareholding interests in the Company.

Background
Acropower had in May 2019 signed an agreement with Chew’s Agriculture Pte Ltd (“Chew’s”), one of Singapore’s leading fresh eggs producers, to build, own and operate a new biomass-to-energy plant (the “Plant”) at Chew’s new farm at Neo Tiew Road (“May 2019 Agreement”). The Plant will process and convert manure from the farm into biogas for use in generating electricity, which will then be supplied back to Chew’s at agreed prices.

Shareholders’ approval for the diversification of this new business was obtained in July 2019. Neo Tiew Power was incorporated in February 2020. Acropower’s obligation to carry out the May 2019 Agreement was novated to Neo Tiew Power.

On 26 November 2020, the Group further announced the completion of the joint venture between its subsidiary Acropower, and the JV Partner, with the subscription by both parties of new shares in the share capital of Neo Tiew Power.

The JV Partner is a Singapore-incorporated investment holdings company comprising private investors. It has other investments in companies with experience in providing turnkey solutions to its customers in the field of process plants and facilities, environmental technology systems as well as composite process equipment.

This press release is to be read in conjunction with the Company’s announcement posted on the SGX website on 12 November 2021.

About Acromec Limited (SGX Stock Code: 1CH1)
ACROMEC is an established specialist engineering services provider with more than 20 years of experience in the field of controlled environments. The Group has over the years acquired expertise in the design and construction of facilities requiring controlled environments such as laboratories, medical and sterile facilities and cleanrooms.

ACROMEC’s business is divided into two main business segments: (i) Engineering, procurement and construction services, specialising in architectural, and mechanical, electrical and process works within controlled environments; and (ii) Maintenance and repair services of facilities and equipment of controlled environments and their supporting infrastructure.

The Group mainly serves the healthcare, biomedical, pharmaceutical, research and academia, and electronics sectors. ACROMEC counts amongst its customers, hospitals and medical centres, government agencies, research and development companies or agencies, research and development units of multinational corporations, tertiary educational institutions, pharmaceutical companies, semiconductor manufacturing companies, and multinational engineering companies.

This media release has been reviewed by the Company’s sponsor, PrimePartners Corporate Finance Pte. Ltd. (the “Sponsor”). It has not been examined or approved by the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (the “Exchange”) and the Exchange assumes no responsibility for the contents of this document, including the correctness of any of the statements or opinions made or reports contained in this document.

The contact person for the Sponsor is Mr. Joseph Au, 16 Collyer Quay, #10-00 Income at Raffles, Singapore 049318, sponsorship@ppcf.com.sg.

For more information, please visit www.acromec.com.
Media and Analysts Contact:
Acromec Limited
Mr Jerry Tan
Chief Financial Officer
Tel: +65 6415 0574
Email: jerry.tan@acromec.com

Mr Wayne Koo / Ms Raihana
Tel: +65 6958 8008 / +65 9338 8166
Email: wayne.koo@waterbrooks.com.sg
Email: raihana@waterbrooks.com.sg
Email: query@waterbrooks.com.sg

Habitat for Humanity Report: Construction is Vast Source of Jobs in Emerging Markets

The construction industry — led by homebuilding — is a large, often-overlooked source of jobs in emerging market economies, according to a report (https://www.habitat.org/sites/default/files/documents/A-Ladder-Up_Report.pdf) released today by Habitat for Humanity to mark World Habitat Day. Every $1 million in construction output creates an average of 97 jobs in emerging markets, economists at the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Southern California, and the University of Washington found in the report commissioned by Habitat for Humanity’s Terwilliger Center for Innovation in Shelter. That compares to 81 jobs created per $1 million in agricultural output and 96 jobs per $1 million in output in the accommodation and food services sector, according to the report, which focuses on 9 countries: Brazil, Colombia, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Peru, the Philippines, South Africa, and Uganda. Graphics below.

“Investment in residential construction represents a potential win-win-win in emerging markets because it creates such a large number of jobs locally, helps close stubborn gaps in affordable housing and stimulates the larger economy,” said Patrick Kelley, vice president of Habitat’s Terwilliger Center. “These findings are critically important for low- and middle-income countries deciding what areas to prioritize as they work to build back economies weakened by the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in a world where 1.6 billion people still lack adequate shelter.”

The report, titled “A Ladder Up: The construction sector’s role in creating jobs and rebuilding emerging market economies,” (https://www.habitat.org/sites/default/files/documents/A-Ladder-Up_Report.pdf) also provides evidence that many of those jobs go to workers with lower levels of formal education. These are relatively well-paying jobs compared to other employment options for workers with limited educational attainment, the researchers found.

Construction workers in emerging markets often work outside of formal, regulated channels, according to the report, with informal employment representing 50% of construction workers in South Africa to more than 90% of those workers in countries such as India, Indonesia and Uganda. Residential construction dominates the sector, the report found. In Brazil, Colombia, and Mexico, for example, residential construction accounts for more than 80% of total building construction.

The researchers also concluded that measures to improve the working conditions and on-the-job training of construction workers can help urban areas — including those hit hard by the pandemic — develop in a more sustainable, equitable way.

For further information, request for graphics, visuals or arrange an interview, please contact Michele Soh, msoh@habitat.org, +65 9233 1544.

About Habitat for Humanity

Driven by the vision that everyone needs a decent place to live, Habitat for Humanity began in 1976 as a grassroots effort on a community farm in southern Georgia. The Christian housing organization has since grown to become a leading global nonprofit working in local communities across all 50 states in the U.S. and in more than 70 countries. Families and individuals in need of a hand up partner with Habitat for Humanity to build or improve a place they can call home. Habitat homeowners help build their own homes alongside volunteers and pay an affordable mortgage. Through financial support, volunteering or adding a voice to support affordable housing, everyone can help families achieve the strength, stability and self-reliance they need to build better lives for themselves. Through shelter, we empower. To learn more, visit habitat.org.

About Habitat’s Terwilliger Center

The Terwilliger Center for Innovation in Shelter, a unit of Habitat for Humanity International, works with housing market actors to expand innovative and client-responsive services, products and financing so that households can improve their shelter more effectively and efficiently. The goal of the Terwilliger Center is to make housing markets work more effectively for people in need of decent, affordable shelter, thereby improving the quality of life for low-income households. To learn more, visit habitat.org/tcis.

ACROMEC’s associated Life Science Incubator launches Co-working Labspace

Serving start-ups in MedTech, Biotech, Biopharma and FoodTech, the Incubator aims to become a vibrant centre of entrepreneurship, technology and science.

ACROMEC Limited (ACROMEC; SGX: 43F), a specialist engineering services provider, announced that subsidiary ACROMEC Engineers Pte Ltd (ACROMEC Engineers) through joint-venture associate Life Science Incubator Pte Ltd, has launched the first Life Science Incubator co-working laboratory space, with a ceremony on location at the German Centre, International Business Plaza, Singapore.

The ceremony was attended by Mr Alvin Tan, Minister of State, Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth and Ministry of Trade & Industry and others from the Economic Development Board, Enterprise Singapore, SGInnovate, A*STAR, NTUitiv and NUS accelerator. Members of Life Science Incubator’s current network of some 20 industry partners, including Merck, also attended the event.

Serving early-stage bio and pharma start-ups, companies and entrepreneurs in the MedTech, Biotech, Biopharma and FoodTech sectors, Life Science Incubator will provide flexible co-working laboratory spaces for research and development. With access to communal state-of-the-art technologies and facilities, start-ups will be able to fully focus on innovation and talent in science without having to think about hefty infrastructure capital.

Said Niamh Madden, General Manager of Life Science Incubator, “Today marks the start of our exciting journey at the Life Science Incubator. We look forward to supporting science and technology start-ups and being an integral launchpad for their endeavours. With our strong network of partner companies, we are confident that the incubator will become a vibrant centre of entrepreneurship, technology and science.”

Said Mr Lim Say Chin, Executive Chairman and Managing Director of ACROMEC, “The successful completion and launch of the Life Science Incubator attests to ACROMEC’s track record and success as a specialist engineering provider for controlled environments. We are excited to be a part of this vibrant ecosystem and will continue to serve companies and start-ups in the life science, biotech, healthcare, and research sectors.”

In July, the Group announced that wholly-owned subsidiary ACROMEC Engineers had entered into a joint-venture agreement with strategic partner Tako Ventures to build, own, and operate JVCo and co-working laboratory facilities. JVCo is 30% owned by the Group through ACROMEC Engineers, while Tako Ventures holds the remaining 70% stake, managing JVCo and the Life Science Incubator.

ACROMEC Engineers undertook the design, construction, and fitting-out works for the 600 square meter Life Science Incubator’s co-working lab facilities, which includes 8 suites, 51 lab benches, and 1 operating theatre.

About ACROMEC Limited
SGX Catalyst-listed ACROMEC (SGX: 43F) is an established specialist engineering services provider with more than 20 years of acquiring expertise in the design and construction of facilities requiring controlled environments, such as laboratories, medical and sterile facilities and cleanrooms. Amongst its customers, ACROMEC counts hospitals & medical centres, government agencies, educational institutions, research & development companies and multinational units, pharmaceutical, semiconductor manufacturing and engineering companies. For more information, visit www.acromec.com.

ACROMEC share information through SGX (43F), Bloomberg (ACRO.SG) and ThomsonReuters (ACRO.SI).

Analyst & Media contact:
ACROMEC Limited
Mr Jerry Tan, CFO
E: jerry.tan@acromec.com

Waterbrooks Consultants Pte Ltd
Mr Wayne Koo / Ms Raihana
T: +65 6958 8002 / +65 9338 8166
E: wayne.koo@waterbrooks.com.sg / raihana@waterbrooks.com.sg

Hatten Land Enters into MOU with Singapore Myanmar Investco to Undertake ‘Green’ Crypto Mining Activities in Melaka

  • Strategic Partnership Agreement with Bursa-Listed Nestcon Berhad for Solar Energy Initiative
  • Proposed Share Placement to Prominent Investors to Accelerate the Group’s New Growth Initiatives

Hatten Land Limited (SGX:PH0) announced today a partnership to operate Hatten Land’s energy-efficient ‘green’ cryptocurrency mining in Melaka that will soon be enabled by solar panels installed on rooftops of retail malls it owns or manages, as it pivots towards an environmental-friendly digital economy.

SGX-Catalist Hatten Land’s wholly-owned subsidiary, Hatten Technology (S) Pte. Ltd. (Hatten Tech) has signed a MOU with SGX Mainboard-listed Singapore Myanmar Investco Limited (SMI) to jointly explore business opportunities in cryptocurrency mining (crypto mining) activities. SMI recently partnered NASDAQ-listed The9 Limited (The9) to procure up to 4,000 sets of crypto mining rigs.

Both parties will leverage on Hatten Land’s space, infrastructure, and comparatively lower energy costs to carry out ‘green’ cryptomining activities, as Hatten Land steps up efforts to introduce solar energy. The renewable energy initiative will allow both parties to conduct ‘green’ crypto mining across Hatten Land assets, with increases in capacities helping to power more rigs to be added later.

Hatten Land and its parent the Hatten Group conglomerate are the leading developers in the historical Malaysian tourist city, operating six malls with built-up area of more than six million square feet. It also owns four hotels in Melaka.

Hatten Tech will share technological know-how on ‘green’ crypto mining facility management, and will also share the net proceeds of the cryptocurrencies to be mined.

Under the MOU, SMI has the intention to install up to 2,000 rigs in Hatten Land’s properties in Melaka. Hatten Land and SMI are working to conclude definitive agreement within 90 days from 30 September 2021. Hatten Land expects to install and operate the rigs from December 2021.

New Solar Energy Initiatives with Strategic Partnership
Hatten Land also announced that its subsidiary Hatten Commercial Management Sdn. Bhd. (HCM), which focuses on green and sustainable energy innovations and developments, has signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement with Nestcon Sustainable Solutions Sdn. Bhd. (NSS), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bursa-listed Nestcon Berhad to install solar panels on the roofs of some of its properties in Melaka.

HCM and NSS will set up a joint-venture or form a consortium with other partners to install solar panels and facilities at Hatten Land-owned malls. An estimated 6,373 solar panels will first be installed at Dataran Pahlawan Melaka Megamall – the largest mall in Melaka and managed by Hatten Group conglomerate – can generate up to 3.19 MWp of solar energy.

The initiative will allow Hatten Land to lower energy costs, accelerate its sustainability efforts and contribute to the ‘green’ crypto mining.

In addition, NSS and HCM will jointly collaborate with other potential partners to discuss opportunities to utilise and/or secure Hatten Land’s current and future land reserve in Malaysia to build large-scale solar photovoltaic (LSSPV) facilities, by phases, capable of generating up to 100 MWp.

Aligned with Hatten Land’s environmentally-friendly digital initiatives, this strategic partnership will allow the Group to lower energy costs, enhance synergies in its ‘green’ crypto mining activities and harness new business opportunities in the renewable energy market.

Proposed Share Placement to Accelerate the Group’s Technology Ventures and Renewable Energy Initiatives
Hatten Land is also pleased to announce that it would raise S$1.8 million from the placement of 80,000,000 new shares at S$0.023 (Placement Shares), representing a discount of approximately 5.74% over the volume weighted average price of S$0.0244 per share on 10 September 2021. The shares will be issued to Asdew Acquisitions (40 million), Evolve Capital Management (20 million) and Mr Ong Toon Wah (20 million) (collectively, the Subscribers).

Each Placement Share comes with a detachable warrant which can be converted to Hatten Land shares at S$0.048 within two years. Proceeds will be used as working capital, as well as to pursue technology and solar initiatives.

The Placement Shares represent approximately 4.78% of the enlarged share capital of Hatten Land of 1,675,169,228 shares. Assuming full conversion of the warrants, Hatten Land’s issued share capital base will be enlarged further to 1,755,169,228 shares, of which the Subscribers will hold approximately 9.12%.

Dato’ Colin Tan, Executive Chairman and Managing Director of Hatten Land, said: “As COVID-19 becomes endemic, we see strong opportunities taking shape and both partnerships accelerate our pivot towards the digital economy.

‘Green’ crypto mining activities will allow Hatten Land to leverage on existing fixed assets in Melaka, harness our own renewable energy initiative and create new revenue stream with the cryptocurrency proceeds.

We are also equally excited to embark on the solar energy collaboration with Nestcon, at a time when sustainability is becoming increasingly important. Combining our efforts and resources, we are confident that the partnership will allow us to harness new business opportunities and further our sustainability efforts.

These are significant milestones for Hatten Land and it aligns with our digital transformation roadmap to increase shareholder value in a sustainable manner.”

Dato’ Colin Tan, added: “We are extremely pleased with the interest and support in our Share Placement and the proceeds will enhance our financial flexibility in our strategic technology and renewable energy initiatives ahead.”

About Hatten Land Limited
Hatten Land Limited is one of the leading property developers in Malaysia specialising in integrated residential, hotel and commercial developments. Headquartered in Melaka, it is the property development arm of the conglomerate Hatten Group, which is a leading brand in Malaysia with core businesses in property development, property investment, hospitality, retail and education.

Hatten Land Limited began trading on the Catalist board of SGX-ST on 28 February 2017 after the completion of the reverse takeover of VGO Corporation Limited. For more information, visit: www.hattenland.com.sg
[SGX: PH0; Bloomberg: HATT:SP; RIC: HATT:SI]

Issued on behalf of Hatten Land Limited by WeR1 Consultants Pte Ltd.
Media & Investor Contacts:
Mr Isaac Tang
Mobile: +65 9178 0269
Email: hatten@wer1.net

This press release has been prepared by Hatten Land Limited (the Company) and its contents have been reviewed by the Company’s sponsor, UOB Kay Hian Private Limited (the Sponsor) for compliance with the relevant rules of the Singapore Exchange Securities Trading Limited (the SGX-ST) Listing Manual Section B: Rules of Catalist.

This press release has not been examined or approved by the SGX-ST and the SGX-ST assume no responsibility for the contents of this press release, including the accuracy, completeness or correctness of any of the information, statements or opinions made or reports contained in this press release.

The contact person for the Sponsor is Mr Lance Tan, Senior Vice President at 8 Anthony Road, #01- 01, Singapore 229957, telephone +65 6590 6881.

Rail Authorities, Operators, Leaders, Stakeholders and Partners to Discuss the Future of Rail in Asia Pacific

Passenger demands, expectations and behaviours have changed in the last 18 months. And to meet these changing patterns, railway operators and authorities are changing too. On 15-16 September, Asia Pacific Rail 2021 will bring together rail leaders from across the region to discuss the future of rail in Asia.

Over the two days, over 80 expert speakers from rail operators and authorities across Asia and beyond will be addressing key themes such as Digital Rail, Signalling & Communications, Operations & Maintenance, Asset Management, Project Updates and more.

Headlining the event are the Keynote Rail Leaders Panels featuring TC Chew, Director – Global Rail Business of Arup, Chong Kheng Chua, Deputy Chief Executive – Infrastructure and Development of Land Transport Authority Singapore, Dr. Jacob Kam Chief Executive Officer of MTR Corporation and Michel Obadia, Chief Executive Officer – Asia Pacific of Siemens Mobility. They will be addressing on what’s next for the Rail industry in Asia Pacific.

Day two of the event will be opened by a COO Panel featuring Bruce Chong, Director – City Advisory and Urban Sustainability of Arup, Alvin Gee, Deputy Managing Director – Operations Support of Bangkok Expressway and Metro, Catherine Baxter, Chief Operating Officer of Metro Trains Melbourne and Adi Lau, Managing Director – Mainland China Business & Global Operations Standards of MTR Corporation as they share best practices on Operating world-class transport services to achieve global sustainability goals. Building on that, leaders from India Railway Stations Development Corporation, Prasarana Malaysia, Jacobs, Transport for London and Bangkok Mass Transit System Public Company Limited (BTS) will take a rail-based approach towards Transit-oriented development.

Additional featured speakers at Asia Pacific Rail include:

– Dr Tony Lee, Operations Director, MTR Corporation, Hong Kong
– Samuel Chan, Group Director – Rail & Road Systems Engineering, Land Transport Authority
– Amaury Jourdan, Vice President & Chief Technology Officer – Thales Ground Transportation, Thales, France
– Raphaelle Guerineau, CEO — Australia & New Zealand, Siemens Mobility
– Kurt Brissett, Executive Director Connected Journeys, Transport for NSW, Australia
– Muhammad Effendi, Operation and Maintenance Director, MRT Jakarta, Indonesia
– Kate McCauley, Principal & Regional Lead – Precinct Development and Planning, Jacobs, Australia
– Shahrin Abdol Salam, Senior Vice President and Deputy Managing Director, SMRT TEL
– Taufikurrahman Taufikurrahman, Executive Vice President, PT Kereta Api Indonesia
– Matthew Yates, Head of Projects, Consents & Urban Design, Transport for London, United Kingdom
– Noormah Mohd Noor, Chief Executive Officer, Express Rail Link, Malaysia
– Danny Ho, Head of Rail Projects, SBS Transit
– Sanjeev Kumar Lohia, Managing Director And Chief Executive Officer, Indian Railway Stations Development Corporation, India
– Yanto Yulianto, Divisional Head of Information System and Technology, PT MRT Jakarta, Indonesia

Running alongside the conference is a virtual exhibition hall showcasing the latest rail solutions and technologies by industry giants including Siemens, Thales, Arup, Ferrovie dello Stato Italiane SpA, Jacobs, UK DIT and many more.
The two-day free-to-attend conference and exhibition is expected to gather over 2,000 rail stakeholders from Asia Pacific and beyond.

About Asia Pacific Rail 2021
Date: 15-16 September 2021, LIVE ONLINE
Conference & Exhibition opening hours: 09:00 am SGT / GMT +8
Website: https://bit.ly/3Dsoie8
Register for a free pass at: https://bit.ly/3gI2wJm

About Terrapinn
Terrapinn is a business media company. Its products are trade exhibitions, conferences, training solutions and electronic and print publications. For more information, please visit www.terrapinn.com.

Note: Press registration for the conference is compulsory and advance scheduling for speaker/ sponsor interviews is recommended. Press passes are strictly reserved for reporters, journalists, editors only. Final issuance of press passes is subjected to Terrapinn’s discretion. For your complimentary press pass, please contact the following:

Jessica Foong
Marketing
Terrapinn Pte Ltd
Jessica.foong@terrapinn.com