Dato’ Koon Poh Tat emerges with 5.73% stake in the Group
APB Resources Berhad, a fabricator of design engineering equipment, today announced that Dato’ Koon Poh Tat has emerged as a substantial shareholder in the Group with a direct 5.73% stake following the acquisition of 6.35 million shares.
Marcus Chin Choon Wei, Executive Director of APB
Dato’ Koon Poh Tat, Substantial Shareholder of APB
The shares were acquired on 13 June 2023 from the open market. Dato Koon is a co-founder and Executive Director of Press Metal Aluminium Holdings Berhad, an integrated aluminium producer. He is also Executive Director of PMB Technology Berhad, a fabricator of aluminium facade systems for buildings.
At the same time, the Group is also pleased to announce the appointments of Dato Sri Abdul Rahim Jaafar as Chairman, Mr. Liaw Wei Gian as Executive Director and Mr. Chin Choon Wei as Executive Director.
Dato Sri Abdul Rahim retired from the Royal Malaysian Police in 2021 as Director of the Department of Internal Security and Public Order. He is a member of the Police Force Commission. He is also the Chairman of Artroniq Berhad.
Liaw is an Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Artroniq and Chin is Chief Financial Officer of Artroniq.
Dato’ Koon said, “We are delighted to come onboard APB and look forward to working with the rest of the Board of Directors (BoD) as well as the entire team to bring more success to the Group. We see lots of opportunities that we can take advantage of that can enhance the performance of APB in the longer term.”
Executive Director of APB, Mr. Chin Choon Wei said, “I am confident that the new members of APB’s BoD will help guide the Group to expand its market presence as a fabricator of design engineering equipment. I note the outlook for the industry is improving as capital spending picks up from the chemicals, oil palm and power generation industries.”
APB’s share price as of today closes at 2.92sen, an increase of 29.78% compared to yesterday’s 2.25sen.
Investor Relations and Sustainable Development Co-create Long-term Value for Enterprises
The award presentation ceremony of Quam IR Awards 2022 (QIRA or The Awards) successfully took place on 12 June, 2023 at Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, recognizing investor relations teams that keep pace with the times in a rapidly changing environment, as well as outstanding enterprises with excellent sustainable development management.
Mr. Stacey Wong, Chief Operating and Risk Officer (eighth from the left), Mr. Chris Wu, Chief Financial Officer (sixth from the left) , Mr. Army Yan, Chief Investment Officer (fifth from the right), Mr. Ambrose Lam, Co-Chairman – China Tonghai Capital (fourth from the right), Ms. Sandy Lam, Managing Director of Hong Kong Sustainability Strategic Advisory Limited (fifth from the left), and Mr. Pak Wing, CHUNG, Sustainable Director of S&P Global Market Intelligence (fourth from the left)
Praising Exceptional Investor Relations Contributions Quam IR Awards is proud to recognize and reward the very best listed company in investor relations industry. The winners of the QIRA have opened the door of communication through diversified channels, representing the tact and professionalism of investor relations. The keen enthusiasm for the 8th Quam IR Awards can be seen from the entries. A total of 16 companies have differentiated themselves from their competitors to won the Awards.
Two Newly Introduced Awards to Commend Remarkable Carbon Management To recognize the performance and contribution of organizations in the implementation of sustainable development goals, Quam IR has once again partnered with Hong Kong Sustainability Strategic Advisory Limited (HKSSA), an advisory firm focusing on enterprises’ abilities of their sustainable development, to professionally select the winning companies in the “Sustainable Development Category” for the award to comment enterprises that have demonstrated outstanding overall performance in ESG aspects. In addition, this year, platinum, gold, and silver awards were added in the “Sustainable Development Category – Carbon Management”, and “Sustainable Development Category- The Best Approach of Carbon Management of the Year” was newly introduced to recognize the outstanding performance of enterprises in energy conservation and carbon reduction.
Quam IR specifically invited Ms. Sandy Lam, Director of HKSSA, to share her insights on the “Four Key Elements of Effective Green Operations,” and invited Mr. Chung Pak Wing, Sustainable1 Director – S&P Global Market Intelligence, to share his observation and analysis on the “Importance and Relevance of Corporate Sustainable Development Assessment.”
Showing Resilience and Innovation to Shape a Sustainable future Mr. Ambrose Lam, Co-Chairman of China Tonghai Capital (Holdings) Limited, said at the opening remark “The past year has been one of the most challenging periods in recent history, with the pandemic affecting every aspect of our lives. However, even in the face of adversity, we have seen companies demonstrate outstanding investor relations best practices. They have shown great resilience and innovation in adapting to the new reality, building trust and confidence among investors.” Mr. Stacey Wong, Chief Operating and Risk Officer of Tonghai Financial Group, said “We have seen the increasing importance of ESG factors in shaping the future of business and society. ESG considerations are no longer optional; they are essential to creating a sustainable future for all. In recognizing the achievements of our winners today, we must also acknowledge their contributions to IR and ESG best practices. They have demonstrated that businesses can be successful while also being responsible and sustainable.”
Unwavering Support from Business Community and Media friends Quam IR was honoured to invite Mr. Joseph Chan, JP, Under Secretary for Financial Services, Ms. Christine Ho, Deputy Global Head of Family Office, InvestHK, Professor LO Wing-hung, Carlos, Professor and Head of Department of Government and Public Administration at CUHK and Director of Centre for Business Sustainability and Mr. Colin Shaftesley, Chairman of the Hong Kong Securities and Investment Institute as our guests of honour to witness such grand occasion.
The 8th Quam IR Awards came to a successful conclusion, thanks to our supporters in the business community, media friends and sponsors in Hong Kong and mainland China. Our supporting media partners include The Chamber of Hong Kong Listed Companies, The Hong Kong Independent Non-Executive Director Association, Ming Pao, The Standard, FX678 and Caiguu. Quam IR is grateful for the strong support and generous sponsorship from HKTaxi, which make Quam IR Awards 2022 a success.
The list of awardees for Quam IR Awards 2022 (In alphabetical order of company name): Stock Code Company Name Hong Kong Index Constituents (Hang Seng Index) Category 2020 ANTA Sports Products Limited 1929 Chow Tai Fook Jewellery Group 0992 Lenovo Group Limited 2382 Sunny Optical Technology (Group) Company Limited
Main Board Category 0081 China Overseas Grand Oceans Group Limited 0173 K. Wah International Holdings Limited 6811 Tai Hing Group Holdings Limited 1865 Trendzon Holdings Group Limited
Sustainable Development Category – Platinum 2020 ANTA Sports Products Limited Sustainable Development Category – Gold 3613 Beijing Tong Ren Tang Chinese Medicine Company Limited 0152 Shenzhen International Holdings Limited Sustainable Development Category – Silver 1229 Nan Nan Resources Enterprise Ltd 0698 Tongda Group Holdings Ltd Sustainable Development Category – Bronze 2266 Lai Si Enterprise Holding Limited Sustainable Development Category – The Best Report of the Year 3311 China State Construction International Holdings Limited Sustainable Development Category – Carbon Management – Gold N/A ALBA Integrated Waste Solutions (Hong Kong) 8391 Cornerstone Technologies Holdings Limited Sustainable Development Category – Carbon Management – Silver 2020 ANTA Sports Products Limited Sustainable Development Category- The Best Approach of Carbon Management of the Year 3311 China State Construction International Holdings Limited
Trade recovery set to accelerate in the second half of 2023
The HKTDC Export Index rose 8.8 points to 47.8 in the second quarter this year, showing better business sentiment among Hong Kong exporters after Mainland China’s borders reopened and business activities return to normal.
HKTDC Director of Research Ms Irina Fan [L] and Senior Economist Ms Cherry Yeung [R] announced the HKTDC Export Index for the second quarter of 2023 at a press conference today.
All major industries and export markets rallied except for clothing, with toys (55.4, up 7.5 points) and machinery (50.3, up 7.4 points) moving above 50 into expansion territory while, among markets, the European Union (51.4, up 9.4 points) and United States (51.1, up 6.7 points) turned positive for the first time in five years.
Based on a quarterly Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) survey of 500 exporters from six major industries – machinery, electronics, jewellery, timepieces, toys and clothing – the index at above 50 indicates an optimistic outlook, and below 50 pessimistic.
Export outlook upbeat HKTDC Senior Economist Ms Cherry Yeung said three new sub-indices – inventory (48.5), current new orders (45.1) and expected new orders (53.6) – provided a more comprehensive exporter sentiment picture. Respondents – especially those from toys, timepieces and machinery sectors – expected strong growth in new export orders in July-September.
The profitability outlook improved as more respondents (66.3%, up 15.3 percentage points from the final quarter of last year) expected higher or stable net profit margins for this year.
“Against this backdrop, the city’s exporters have adjusted their business strategies, shifting the focus from cash-flow management to spending more resources on marketing, promotion and business matching (41.6%, up 11.7 percentage points from previous quarter) and diversifying sales into additional overseas markets (31.1%),” Ms Yeung said.
All sub-indices rise Other sub-indices grew this quarter with the Trade Value Index and Employment Index edged up 0.8 point to 48.8 and 0.5 point to 48.1 respectively, while the Procurement Index leapt 15.9 points to 44.3.
The Offshore Trade Index, which tracks sentiment around shipments not passing through Hong Kong but managed by businesses within the city, soared 18.5 points to 46.5, “signalling a sustained recovery in demand for Hong Kong’s trading services”, Ms Yeung added.
Growing economic risks The survey results also revealed a slower-than-expected recovery of cargo routed through Hong Kong. Only 13.4% (down 23.1 percentage points from previous quarter) of related respondents expected an increase this year. As of last month, the number of cross-boundary vehicles at all crossings for goods vehicles and containers reached a plateau at about 60% of the pre-pandemic level. Some industry players said reduced capacity had raised cross-border logistics costs between 20% and 30% from pre-pandemic levels, slowing the recovery.
The biggest risk was seen as an external one, with most respondents (66.1%, up 29.9 percentage points from the final quarter last year) recognising an economic slowdown or recession in overseas markets as the top challenge to export performance over the third quarter this year.
Sustained recovery Affected by weakened global demand, a slower-than-expected recovery in cross-border land transport capacity, coupled with a longer-than-expected downcycle in the electronics sector, Hong Kong’s total exports fell 16.5% year-on-year in the first four months of this year. Among markets, the Middle East grew 11.5%, driven by the two economies’ closer economic and trade ties. Stimulated by a post-pandemic spike in demand in Mainland China and Macao, Hong Kong’s precious jewellery exports to the two markets surged 32% and 42% respectively.
HKTDC Director of Research Ms Irina Fan said the recovery was gathering momentum for the second half of this year which was likely to carry into next year. “However, traders remain cautious, with many concerned about the challenging external backdrop. The risk of escalating geopolitical tensions, may create uncertainties for electronics trade flows throughout the region, especially those relating to the semi-conductor industry,” she said.
Taking all these factors into account, HKTDC Research has revised its forecast for Hong Kong export growth this year down from earlier estimate of 5% to between 0% and 2%.
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 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. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn
Media enquiries Please contact the HKTDC’s Communication and Public Affairs Department: Beatrice Lam, Tel: +852 2584 4049, Email: beatrice.hy.lam@hktdc.org
Doubleview Gold Corp. (TSXV: DBG) (OTCQB: DBLVF) (GERMANY: A1W038) (referred to as the “Company” or “Doubleview”) is pleased to announce recent progress at its Hat Project. Following the Company’s winter program of data compilation and interpretation, and a spring program of camp improvements, a series of drill holes are being directed to parts of the main Lisle Zone. Thus far, drill holes H052 and H053, located in the middle-west part of the deposit have been completed. These holes were positioned to confirm continuity within that area and were successful in validating our model. Both drill holes intersected sulphide mineralization, including sections of very strong chalcopyrite and very strong pyrite mineralization that has historically been associated with significant gold content.
Holes H052 and H053 were drilled from the same collar location as holes H049, H050, and H051. H052 was drilled at azimuth 135 degrees, dip -60o and total length 540 m; hole H053, at 105o, dip -70o and total length 441 m. These drill holes encountered chalcopyrite, pyrite and magnetite and confirm the west continuity of the Lisle Zone. Drill cores are being processed at the HAT camp and core samples will be transferred to Dease Lake and securely trucked to an accredited laboratory located in North Vancouver, British Columbia for expedited analysis.
Farshad Shirvani, Doubleview President and CEO commented “The current drill program is designed to maximize the results and quality of the NI43-101 resource estimate that is currently in progress for the HAT deposit.”
Mr. Shirvani stated, “Many countries around the world are increasingly seeking critical metal supplies from North America, where high demand and an impending shortage have been predicted. Notably, the United Kingdom and South Korea have demonstrated their interest in securing these critical metals from the United States and, and the Government of British Columbia respectively, signifying the anticipated surge in market demand.”
“Doubleview’s Hat project is endowed with a substantial number of these critical metals, which places Doubleview and our investors in a truly advantageous position.”
The Company’s exploration program continues, and updates will be provided as further information becomes available.
Erik Ostensoe, P. Geo., a consulting geologist, and Doubleview’s Qualified Person with respect to the Hat Project as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed, and approved the technical contents of this news release. He is not independent of Doubleview as he is a shareholder in the company.
About Doubleview Gold Corp
Doubleview Gold Corp., a mineral resource exploration and development company, is based in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, and is publicly traded on the TSX-Venture Exchange (TSXV: DBG) (OTCQB: DBLVF) (GERMANY: A1W038) (FSE: 1D4). Doubleview identifies, acquires and finances precious and base metal exploration projects in North America, particularly in British Columbia. Doubleview increases shareholder value through acquisition and exploration of quality gold, copper and silver properties and the application of advanced state-of-the-art exploration methods. The Company’s portfolio of strategic properties provides diversification and mitigates investment risks.
On behalf of the Board of Directors,
Farshad Shirvani, President & Chief Executive Officer
For further information please contact: Doubleview Gold Corp Vancouver, BC Farshad Shirvani President & CEO T: (604) 678-9587 E: corporate@doubleview.ca
NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.
Certain of the statements made and information contained herein may constitute “forward-looking information.” In particular references to the private placement and future work programs or expectations on the quality or results of such work programs are subject to risks associated with operations on the property, exploration activity generally, equipment limitations and availability, as well as other risks that we may not be currently aware of. Accordingly, readers are advised not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp. (CSE: API) (OTCQX: APAAF) (FSE: A0I0) (FSE: A0I0.F) (FSE: A0I.MU) (FSE: A0I.BE) (the Company or Appia) is pleased to announce that, further to its press releases of March 7, 2023 and May 30, 2023, the Company has signed a Definitive Agreement (the Definitive Agreement) with 3S LTDA (3S), Beko Invest Ltd. (Beko), Antonio Vitor Junior (Antonio) and AZ125 Mineracao Ltda (the Company) to acquire up to a 70% interest in the PCH Project (the “Transaction”) located in the Tocantins Structural Province of the Brasilia Fold Belt, Goias State, Brazil (the Property).
“Appia has taken a significant step in cementing itself among the upper tier of critical mineral explorers with today’s announcement,” stated Stephen Burega, President. “Brazil is emerging as a significant source of rare earths contained in ionic clays, and Appia’s PCH project will further enhance this potential. The known rare earth element distribution at PCH should lead to favourable economics for processing; is easily on par with other ionic clay projects outside of Asia; and it contains relatively high levels of the magnetic REEs. Early-stage review of the rare element distribution indicates a high potential ‘basket price’ which is a positive indicator to advance the project. Once additional analysis is completed, a more detailed summary of known results will be shared with the market.”
Pursuant to the terms of the Definitive Agreement, the Property will be held by the Company, Appia will hold a 70% interest in the Company, subject to completing the option obligations referred to below, and Antonio will hold a 30% interest in the Company. The initial 500,000 shares (the “Initial Shares”) to be issued to Beko will be issued when certain administrative steps have been completed in Brazil to perfect the 70% interest of Appia in the Company (the “Perfection of the Transaction”). A further announcement will be made when the Initial Shares are to be issued.
Upon Perfection of the Transaction, Appia can maintain its 70% interest in the Company by issuing an aggregate of a further 2.0 million common shares of Appia to Beko and spending US$10 million on the Property over a period of five (5) years (the “Option Period”) after which Appia will have earned a 60% interest in the Company. If Appia earns its 60% interest, it will then be obligated, within 90 days of earning its 60% interest, to issue a further US$1,250,000 of common shares of Appia to Beko to earn a further 10% interest in the Company. The number of shares to be issued to earn the further 10% shall be that number of common shares of Appia equal to the number arrived at by dividing US$1,250,000 by the greater of the average closing price of the common shares as quoted on the Canadian Securities Exchange (the “CSE”) for the 30 trading days immediately preceding the announcement by Appia of its intention to earn the additional 10% interest and the discounted market price of the common shares of Appia based on the last closing price immediately preceding the announcement.
Appia will acquire incremental vested interests in the Company upon completion of specific expenditure requirements pursuant to the terms of the Definitive Agreement. Once Appia issues at least a further 500,000 common shares to Beko and spends at least US$1 million on the Property (at which time it will have earned a 10% interest in the Company) (the “Initial Obligation”), Beko will be granted a 1% net smelter returns royalty (the “1% NSR”) in the Property. Appia will have a right of first refusal to acquire the 1% NSR.
Once Appia has earned its 70% interest in the Company, Appia and Antonio will enter into a joint venture with respect to the further exploration and development of the Property (the “Joint Venture”) with Appia holding a 70% interest and Antonio holding a 30% interest in the Company. The Joint Venture will be governed by the terms of a Quotaholders Agreement to be signed by Appia and Antonio as part of the Perfection of the Transaction. The Quotaholders Agreement will act as a unanimous shareholders agreement and a joint venture agreement with respect to the further exploration and development of the Property. Upon the formation of the Joint Venture, Antonio will have 90 days within which to elect to either (a) participate in the Joint Venture and contribute his pro rata share of expenditures or be diluted; (b) sell all of his 30% interest in the Company, subject to a right of first refusal in favour of Appia; or (c) elect to have Appia fund its pro rata share of expenditures pursuant to the Joint Venture subject to the right of Appia to be reimbursed for 150% of the expenditures made by Appia on behalf of Antonio before any proceeds are paid to Antonio.
If a party is required to make a contribution pursuant to the Joint Venture and that party does not make its pro rata contribution to development expenditures, that party’s interest in the Company will be diluted pro rata based upon that party’s deemed and actual contributions to the Joint Venture relative to the total deemed and actual contributions to the Joint Venture by both parties. A party whose interest is diluted to 10% or less shall immediately be converted to a 1% net smelter returns royalty (“1% Dilution NSR”) with the remaining party’s interest converted to a 100% interest in the Company subject to payment of the 1% Dilution NSR. The remaining party will have a right of first refusal to purchase the 1% Dilution NSR.
Should Appia fail to make some or all of the expenditures required in any year, Beko will notify APPIA in writing of such failure, after which Appia will have 30 days to make the required expenditure. Failure to make the expenditure within the 30 days will result in Appia’s earned interest being reduced pro rata in proportion to the amount of money actually expended by Appia in such year. Appia shall have the right to make additional expenditures in a subsequent year to earn the balance of the interest it would have earned had it made the entire expenditure in the previous year. If Appia fails to expend an aggregate of US$10 million and issue an aggregate of 2,000,000 common shares of Appia to Beko within the Option Period, Appia may, at any time during the Option Period after completing the Initial Obligation, notify Beko that it does not intend to provide any further funding for the Property (the “Cease Funding Notice”). Upon delivery of the Cease Funding Notice to Beko, Appia shall have earned the applicable interest in the Company (the “Earned Interest”) and shall transfer to Antonio that number of quotas of the Company equal to 70% minus the Earned Interest. Thereafter, Appia shall hold the Earned Interest in the Company and Antonio shall hold 100% minus the Earned Interest in the Company. Upon delivery of the Cease Funding Notice and the adjustment in the interests of Appia and Antonio in the Company, the parties shall use their commercially reasonable efforts to determine how to proceed with their respective interests in the Company.
Background on the PCH Project The Cachoeirinha Project (PCH Project) is located within the Tocantins Structural Province in the Brasilia Fold Belt, more specifically, the Arenopolis Magmatic Arc. The PCH Project is 17,551.07 ha. in size and located within the Goias State of Brazil. It is classified as an alkaline intrusive rock occurrence with highly anomalous REE and niobium mineralization. This mineralization is related to alkaline lithologies of the Fazenda Buriti Plutonic Complex and the hydrothermal and surface alteration products of this complex by supergene enrichment in a tropical climate. The positive results of the recent geochemical exploration work carried out to date indicates the potential for REEs and Niobium within lateritic ionic adsorption clays.
The technical content in this news release was reviewed and approved by Mr. Don Hains, P.Geo, Consulting Geologist, and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.
About Appia Rare Earths & Uranium Corp (Appia) Appia is a publicly traded Canadian company in the rare earth element and uranium sectors. The Company is currently focusing on delineating high-grade critical rare earth elements and gallium on the Alces Lake property, as well as exploring for high-grade uranium in the prolific Athabasca Basin on its Otherside, Loranger, North Wollaston, and Eastside properties. The Company holds the surface rights to exploration for 113,837.15 hectares (281,297.72 acres) in Saskatchewan. The Company also has a 100% interest in 12,545 hectares (31,000 acres), with rare earth element and uranium deposits over five mineralized zones in the Elliot Lake Camp, Ontario.
Appia has 130.5 million common shares outstanding, 143.5 million shares fully diluted.
Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This News Release contains forward-looking statements which are typically preceded by, followed by or including the words “believes”, “expects”, “anticipates”, “estimates”, “intends”, “plans” or similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are not a guarantee of future performance as they involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions. We do not intend and do not assume any obligation to update these forward- looking statements and shareholders are cautioned not to put undue reliance on such statements.
Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Market Regulator (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.
For further information, please contact: Tom Drivas, CEO and Director: (cell) 416-876-3957, (fax) 416-218-9772 or (email) tdrivas@appiareu.com Stephen Burega, President: (cell) 647-515-3734 or (email) sburega@appiareu.com
Free support to help SMEs integrate ESG initiatives into business
The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) will add a support stream to its Transformation Sandbox (T-box) programme to help Hong Kong companies integrate environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives into business. The new stream is expected to organise 100 free consultation meetings and serve 500 small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in its first year, covering both manufacturing and services sectors, such as garments, electronics, lighting, houseware and gifts, as well as transport, catering and construction.
Ms Winsome Chan, Head of Marketing and Customer Service, HKTDC, Mr Simon Ng, Chief Executive Officer, Business Environment Council, Dr Patrick Lau, Deputy Executive Director, HKTDC and Ms Michelle Mak, Head of ESG and Enterprise Learning, Dun & Bradstreet (HK) Ltd [L-R]
HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Dr Patrick Lau said promoting sustainable development was an important theme globally; governments and multinational companies had set targets to cut carbon dioxide emissions, providing impetus for the green sector and encouraging Hong Kong businesses to move forward with sustainable development. In addition, ESG compliance had become a criterion for bank-loan approval and orders from premium buyers.
ESG is crucial for success “ESG is no longer simply an option, but an important success factor. The HKTDC hopes this new service will become the strongest support for local business in their ESG transformation, encouraging more SMEs to take action to achieve sustainable development goals through adopting innovative eco solutions, as well as to bear social responsibilities and enhance corporate governance,” Dr Lau added.
To help SMEs navigate trends and apply ground-breaking technologies for solving long-lasting problems, the HKTDC and a number of organisations – including Business Environment Council (BEC) and Dun & Bradstreet (HK) Ltd – will cooperate to provide practical advice and information on sustainability transformation through consultation and workshops. ESG registration services will be offered at a discount.
The HKTDC will proactively collaborate with industry organisations and professional bodies to organise thematic workshops on social responsibility and corporate governance for SMEs, covering issues ranging from human resources and supply chain to risk management, cybersecurity and more.
Net-zero roadmaps for businesses Business Environment Council (BEC) Chief Executive Officer Mr Simon Ng said severe climate challenges meant all business sectors should immediately act to formulate roadmaps and accelerate the net-zero transition.
“BEC will lead the local business community to build a sustainable ecosystem and continue to work with different stakeholders to achieve the goal of carbon neutrality through thought-leadership, innovative solutions, policy advocacy, strategic partnership, advisory services and environmental education,” he said.
Discounted ESG Registered(TM) Service Dun & Bradstreet will offer special discounts for T-box members using the D&B ESG Registered(TM) service, to help them take the first steps towards sustainable transformation and enhance ESG data transparency, which helps firms that form part of global ESG supply chains.
Ms Michelle Mak, Head of ESG and Enterprise Learning, Dun & Bradstreet (HK) Ltd said ESG was about more than net-zero emissions; social responsibility and corporate governance were equally important. “To comply with ESG commitment, many MNCs (Multinational Corporations) have incorporated ESG controls into their supplier and vendor evaluation and selection process. D&B ESG Registered(TM) meets industry recognised sustainability standards such as SASB, GRI, TCFD, UN SDGs, UN PRI and CDP, those who successfully complete the required assessment will be given a badge as a recognition of commitment to disclosing ESG data, and SMEs’ efforts in ESG will help lift up corporate images and enhance competitive edges.”
Supporting over 3,000 SMEs The HKTDC Transformation Sandbox (T-box) is a SME support programme launched in April 2020 to help businesses enhance competitiveness and achieve transformation goals in the areas of branding, e-commerce, manufacturing and supply chain solutions and new markets.
The T-box team supports SMEs over a three-month period with advisory services, workshops, government-funding information, market knowledge and networking opportunities to help them track market trends, improve skills and expand business connections. The programme has served more than 3,000 companies since launch. With the support of representatives from professional bodies, business associations, chambers of commerce, business partners as well as HKTDC overseas offices, about 850 consultation meetings have been arranged free of charge.
About BEC Business Environment Council Limited (BEC) is an independent, charitable membership organisation, established by the business sector in Hong Kong. Since its establishment in 1992, BEC has been at the forefront of promoting environmental excellence by advocating the uptake of clean technologies and practices which reduce waste, conserve resources, prevent pollution and improve corporate environmental and social responsibility. BEC offers sustainable solutions and professional services covering advisory, research, assessment, training and award programmes for government, business and the community, thus enabling environmental protection and contributing to the transition to a net-zero economy.
About Dun & Bradstreet Dun & Bradstreet, a leading global provider of business decisioning data and analytics, enables companies around the world to improve their business performance. Dun & Bradstreet’s Data Cloud fuels solutions and delivers insights that empower customers to accelerate revenue, lower cost, mitigate risk and transform their businesses. Since 1841, companies of every size have relied on Dun & Bradstreet to help them manage risk and reveal opportunity. For details, please visit www.dnb.com.hk
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 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. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn
Media Enquiries HKTDC’s Communications and Public Affairs Department Beatrice Lam, Tel: +852 2584 4049, Email: beatrice.hy.lam@hktdc.org
Attracted 200,000 consumers to help Hong Kong brands expand
Chic Hong Kong, jointly organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Shenzhen Municipal People’s Government, concluded successfully yesterday. The HKTDC brought together nearly 80 exhibitors showcasing over 130 brands at the three-day shopping festival in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).
A flagship event of Guangdong-Hong Kong Cooperation Week, Chic Hong Kong enabled Hong Kong brands to reach a wider consumer base and provided them a stepping stone to the mainland market. The shopping festival brought together nearly 80 exhibitors, of which 40% are new to the mainland market. The 3-day event attracted 200,000 visitors, facilitating trade between and boosting consumption in Shenzhen and Hong Kong.
Stephen Liang, Assistant Executive Director of the HKTDC, said: “The success of Chic Hong Kong creates opportunities for Hong Kong brands to tap into the mainland market. It also underlines Hong Kong’s commitment to deepen cooperation with the mainland and drive high-quality development in the GBA.”
The shopping festival comprised three themed exhibition areas: Chic Living, Chic Style and Chic Taste, highlighting a diversity of trendy products from Hong Kong.
One of the exhibitors Mr Angus Au, Co-founder & Chief Marketing Officer of Allklear said, “Chic Hong Kong is our first attempt to explore the Mainland China market after the resumption of normal travel between Hong Kong and the mainland. The event gave us a better understanding of the huge potential of healthy foods in the mainland market and consumer preferences in the Greater Bay Area.”
Another exhibitor Ms Li, a representative from Telford said, “We brought over 30 cases of tea, which sold out on the first night, with some customers immediately placing orders online. Thanks to strong social media promotion, joining this event was very effective in raising our brand awareness and helping us test the market response to our new products.”
In addition to products, Chic Hong Kong also featured over 100 activities, such as Hong Kong artist Gigi Yim’s live performance, the grand finals of the GBA 9+2 street dance competition, a demonstration of KamCha Hong Kong Style Milk Tea brewing, a cappella performances, magic shows and more. Moreover, social media influencers from Guangdong and Hong Kong, including renowned Hong Kong vegetarian expert Mr Elvis Chan and ketogenic diet expert Ms Hayden Leung demonstrated how to prepare healthy delicacies for festival visitors.
The HKTDC will continue launching a series of promotional campaigns in the GBA. The Support Scheme for Pursuing Development in the Mainland will also organise business tours and provide training for companies. Furthermore, the HKTDC’s GoGBA one-stop platform, GBA Centre and GoGBA business support centres provide year-round consultation, information and business matching services for Hong Kong and overseas businesses and help Hong Kong businesses seek opportunities in the GBA and expand via the Hong Kong platform. The HKTDC will continue to bring exhibitors from the GBA to Hong Kong to seize business opportunities.
The HKTDC Transformation Sandbox (T-box), Digital Academy and E-tailing Academy will continue to provide comprehensive business support and training for SMEs, to help them upgrade and transform and capture opportunities in the GBA.
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 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. Follow us on Twitter @hktdc and LinkedIn
About Create Hong Kong Create Hong Kong (CreateHK) is a dedicated office set up by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR Government) in June 2009 to spearhead the development of creative industries in Hong Kong. From 1 July 2022 onwards, it is under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau. Its strategic foci are to nurture talent and facilitate start-ups, explore markets, promote cross-sectoral and cross-genre collaboration, and promote Hong Kong as Asia’s creative capital and foster a creative atmosphere in the community.
Disclaimer for Hong Kong Masterpiece Gallery The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only, and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organisers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, Create Hong Kong, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee.
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Collaboration rolls out sustainability initiative using recycled plastic bottles to produce shawls and scrunchies
SPRITZER is collaborating with TudungPeople, a designer of comfortable and beautiful hijabs, to produce a limited edition shawl made from recycled plastic bottles as part of the Company’s sustainability initiative.
TudungPeople, which has over 100 designs and prints, will use eight recycled plastic bottles per shawl with design inspirations from Spritzer ICON bottle. The Limited Edition Rainforest Collection is available now.
The limited-edition shawl and scrunchie reflect the delicate image of rainforest flora against a background of subtle turquoise gradients. Delicate orchids, whimsical ferns and stately monstera adorn the shawls and scrunchie while the fabric, with its balanced weight, supports the shape of the tudung and frames the face well. Each shawl comes in a design matching reusable pouch bag, to safely store your one-of-kind tudung.
Spritzer is working towards a sustainable future, with initiatives and partnerships to encourage and highlight sustainability and sustainable practices. The Company, best known for its silica-rich mineral water, is also pushing awareness on the importance of clean water to everyday life and how a clean environment is important to water sources.
This initiative encourages people to imagine what else can plastic bottles be used for.
The gorgeous TudungPeople x Spritzer shawl retails at RM179, adorable scrunchie at RM25 or the set at RM184. The featured products are available for purchase at www.tudungpeople.com and https://shop.spritzer.com.my/.
Two-day physical event featuring 50+ speakers, 50 sessions, and 20+ exhibitors will be held on June 3rd and 4th, 2023 at Mid Valley Exhibition Center Hall 1
Guest of Honour Minister of Economy YB Tuan Mohd Rafizi Bin Ramli and Bursa Malaysia CEO Datuk Muhamad Umar Swift will deliver their address on Day 1
The event is jointly organised by ShareInvestor and InvestingNote, and supported by Bursa Malaysia, MSWG (Minority Shareholders Watch Group) and CFA Society Malaysia
ShareInvestor Malaysia Sdn Bhd, Malaysia’s largest independent platform for investor relations, market data tools and investor education, today announced the launch of INVEST Fair, Malaysia’s largest investment fair. Under the vibrant theme of “Grow Your Money Lahh!”, this year’s event encourages participants to “Simplify investing through diversifying assets”.
Held from 10am – 9pm on 3rd June (Saturday) and 10am – 7pm on 4th June (Sunday), INVEST Fair will host more than 50 expert speakers from the field of finance and investment. These professionals will share their wealth of knowledge through 50 enriching sessions, covering a broad spectrum of topics including the latest market outlook, sector insights, investment knowledge, trading skills, cryptocurrency, and property investment. Selected sessions will be conducted in Malay and Chinese to inspire all Malaysians to be prudent and savvy investors.
In addition to the enriching sessions and valuable investment insights, more than RM20,000 worth of prizes are up for grabs.
“We are excited to host INVEST Fair 2023, aiming to provide an interactive and educational platform for both seasoned and novice investors,” said Mr Christopher Lee, CEO of ShareInvestor Group, who will deliver the welcome address. “This event is a great opportunity for attendees to gain insights from a rich line-up of experts and to network with key industry players.”
Guest of Honour, YB Tuan Mohd Rafizi Bin Ramli, Minister of Economy Malaysia will deliver the Ministerial Address at 10am on Saturday 3rd June 2023, after the opening address from Datuk Muhamad Umar Swift, the CEO of Bursa Malaysia.
One of the highlights of the two-day event is the special session by Mr Robert P. Miles, an internationally acclaimed keynote presenter, author, and distinguished authority on Warren Buffett and Berkshire Hathaway. He will share his expertise on “How to Become a Value Investor Like Warren Buffett”, a must-attend session for all Warren Buffett enthusiasts.
For more information on the event and registration details, please visit our official website at https://my.invest-fair.com/
Media passes are available upon request.
Media Contact : Mr Darren Chong Head of Investor Platforms, ShareInvestor Sdn Bhd Email: darren.chong@shareinvestor.com Mobile: +60 014-9441639
About ShareInvestor ( www.shareinvestorholdings.com ) A leading regional media and technology company, ShareInvestor Pte Ltd (SI) was founded in 1999 to empower investors to make informed investment decisions. SI focuses on providing investor relations, market data and investor education services, and operates the largest investor relations network in the region.
SI Group has over 130 employees in four countries (Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia). It has also made strategic investments in investor relations/public relations firm, Waterbrooks Consultants Pte Ltd ( https://www.waterbrooks.com.sg/ ), and Singapore’s leading social media platform for investors, Investing Note Pte Ltd ( https://www.investingnote.com ).
SI ( https://www.shareinvestor.com/ ) provides online market data for multiple markets across its online platform tools ShareInvestor Station(TM), ShareInvestor WebPro(TM) and ShareInvestor Mobile. Its other products include Investor-One (https://www.investor-one.com/), a website on investor education, market news, corporate developments, and data analytics; as well as Inve$t, the e-magazine published weekly in Singapore and Malaysia.
SI organises financial investment seminars and conferences for investors. Its annual large-scale events INVEST Fair(TM) ( https://investfair.com.sg) in Singapore and Malaysia draws thousands of participants.
About InvestingNote (www.investingnote.com) Investing Note is the largest and most interactive platform for investments in Singapore and Malaysia. We’re here to make investing Fun & Profitable!
It is a community-driven platform designed specifically to help investors and traders to share ideas on stocks, personal finance, news and insights through social networking and a variety of useful investment tools.
Previously, the company (Investing Note Pte Ltd) has received funding support from Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) and Singapore Press Holdings (SPH).
Occupancy Rate Increased to 83.8% with Positive Rental Reversion – Revenue recorded of RM28.9 million and Net Property Income of RM15.2 million – Robust NPI Margin of 52% indicating healthy financial performance – Gearing ratio lowered to 44.3% due to effective financial strategy – Improvement in portfolio occupancy rate to 83.8% – Positive rental reversions
Hektar Asset Management Sdn. Bhd., the Manager of Hektar Real Estate Investment Trust (Hektar REIT), today announced that for the first quarter ended 31 March 2023 (1Q 2023), Hektar REIT registered revenue of RM28.9 million and the Net Property Income (NPI) for the quarter under review stood at RM15.2 million at the back of higher utilities cost driven by the electricity tariff hike due to the adjustments of the Imbalance Cost Pass-Through (ICPT) mechanism, and the increase in minimum wages. Realised Net Income for 1Q 2023 stood at RM9.2 million due to higher finance cost in line with the increase of Overnight Policy Rates (OPR) implemented by Bank Negara Malaysia.
En. Johari Shukri Bin Jamil, Chief Executive Officer of Hektar Asset Management Sdn Bhd
Hektar REIT recorded a robust NPI Margin of 52%, indicating a healthy financial performance throughout the Assets Under Management (AUM). The Gearing Ratio was improved to 44.3% due to prudent financial management.
Hektar REIT’s portfolio performance showed considerable improvement and the portfolio occupancy improved to 83.8%. Mahkota Parade & Wetex Parade occupancy rates improved tremendously, recording more than 90% and Kulim Central recorded close to 96%. The Management is also pleased to report a positive rental reversion for this quarter with 78 new or renewed tenancies consisting of 14.0% of the total Net Lettable Area (NLA), equivalent to 287,298 sq. ft. Despite the challenging retail environment, Management remains aggressive in boosting occupancies by focusing on retaining key tenants, reviewing its current mall strategies and working with innovative and creative retailers who are expected to bring the desired impact to the mall.
All malls under the portfolio experienced an uptrend in visitor traffic, showing positive signs of a return in shoppers’ confidence at Hektar malls. Overall visitor footfall count for 1Q 2023 increased to 5.6 million, a massive jump of 33% compared to the same quarter in the preceding year. The Management is constantly working on intensifying marketing events & activities and Corporate Social Responsibility related events to serve the communities in the areas where our shopping centres operate.
En. Johari Shukri bin Jamil, Chief Executive Officer of Hektar Asset Management Sdn. Bhd. said: “Retail activities remained strong in this quarter on the back of festivities. Hektar REIT’s malls are well-positioned as neighbourhood & community malls. This is where our focus and niche are, hence; we continuously aim at improving the overall tenancy mix & occupancies at the malls. For this year, we are planning for Subang Parade’s Repositioning exercise. We believe that remixing of tenancies by bringing in new tenants will complement the existing offerings and will also be able to match the expectations of our loyal patrons. Our focus is on initiatives that will benefit our malls and retailers in the long run through implementing focused strategies that will bring improvements in visitor footfall and encourage higher customer spending, resulting in a continuous positive upward cycle and sustainable returns to our Unitholders. We will continue to sweat our AUM to enhance revenue and NPI. Our committed overall portfolio occupancy is currently 85.4% and will be realised in the subsequent quarters this year. We are in the midst of discussions with prominent & notable tenants to further improve our overall occupancy & tenancy mix.”
