Category: Local Business

Yanlord Posts Revenue up 44.7% to RMB13.189 Billion for 1H 2021

Yanlord Land Group Limited (Z25.SI) (“Yanlord” or the “Company” and together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”), a Singapore Exchange-listed real estate developer focusing on developing high-end integrated commercial and residential property projects in strategically selected high-growth cities in the People’s Republic of China (“PRC”) and Singapore, today announced its unaudited first half year condensed interim financial statements for the six months ended 30 June 2021 (“1H 2021”).

The Group’s revenue increased by 44.7% to RMB13.189 billion in 1H 2021 compared to the first half of financial year ended 31 December 2020 (“1H 2020”), of which, RMB11.359 billion was contributed from property development, RMB692 million from property investment and hotel operations, RMB420 million from property management and the remaining RMB718 million from other segment, representing an increase of 46.0%, 40.9%, 13.7% and 50.4% compared to 1H 2020, respectively. The increase in revenue for 1H 2021 was primarily attributable to the increase in gross floor area (“GFA”) delivered to customers, which partly offset by the decrease in average selling price (“ASP”) per square metre (“sqm”) achieved by the Group in 1H 2021 compared to 1H 2020. The decrease in ASP achieved by the Group in 1H 2021 was mainly due to the change in the composition of product-mix delivered in the reporting period.

The Group has been accelerating the development pace and growing the scale of operations to sustain its growth over the past few years. With the increase of GFA being delivered and recognised as revenue of the Group in 1H 2021, gross profit of the Group for 1H 2021 increased by 7.5% to RMB3.520 billion compared to 1H 2020. Gross profit margin decreased by 9.2 percentage points to 26.7% in 1H 2021 from 35.9% in 1H 2020 primarily due to the change in the composition of product-mix delivered in 1H 2021.

Profit for the period increased by 54.8% to RMB1.567 billion in 1H 2021 from RMB1.013 billion in 1H 2020, mainly resulting from the increase in gross profit, other operating income and other gains and share of profit from joint ventures and associates as well as decrease in finance cost, partly offset by absence of fair value gain on investment property recorded in 1H 2021 compared to 1H 2020. The profit margin for the period increased by 0.8 percentage point to 11.9% in 1H 2021 compared to 11.1% in 1H 2020. Profit attributable to owners of the Company for 1H 2021 was RMB823 million, an increase of 67.1% compared to 1H 2020.

Property sales recognition, property pre-sales and accumulated property contracted presales pending recognition

The Group together with its joint ventures and associates delivered a total GFA of 711,738 sqm of residential and commercial units, and 3,323 units of car parks to customers in 1H 2021, an increase of 145.4% and 96.7% respectively compared to 1H 2020. The gross property sales (including car parks) recognised in 1H 2021 amounting to RMB18.558 billion, an increase of 127.4% compared to 1H 2020, of which, RMB11.433 billion was recognised as revenue of the Group and RMB7.125 billion was recognised as revenue of joint ventures and associates.

Testament to the strong buyer support for its high-quality developments in the PRC, the property contracted pre-sales of the Group together with its joint ventures and associates from residential and commercial units, and car parks for 1H 2021 was RMB28.681 billion on contracted GFA of 898,943 sqm, a decrease of 3.7% and an increase of 8.1% respectively over 1H 2020. ASP achieved in 1H 2021 was RMB31,905 per sqm.

For 1H 2021, the total property contracted pre-sales of other property development projects under the Group’s project management business bearing the “Yanlord” brand name was RMB6.843 billion on contracted GFA of 160,221 sqm.

As at 30 June 2021, the accumulated property contracted pre-sales of the Group together with its joint ventures and associates reached RMB115.364 billion pending recognition in the second half of 2021 (“2H 2021”) and beyond.

Growing recurring income from property investment and hotel operations and property management

For 1H 2021, the total rental and hotel income of the Group increased by 40.9% to RMB692 million over 1H 2020. The increase was mainly attributable to the strong recovery of domestic business travel and tourism demand for hotels and serviced apartments in the PRC. Income from property management increased by 13.7% year-on-year to RMB420 million in line with the increase in GFA under management of the Group.

Prudent financial management

Benefiting from the strong property contracted pre-sales with high collection ratio achieved in 1H 2021, cash and cash equivalents of the Group increased by 31.9% to RMB22.695 billion with net gearing ratio of the Group decreased by 13.3 percentage points to 49.9% as at 30 June 2021, compared to year end of 2020.

Land acquisitions

For 1H 2021, the Group replenished a total GFA of approximately 386,000 sqm of new development sites through public land auctions and acquisitions in Tianjin, Yancheng, Wuxi and Shanghai, the PRC. The total land cost amounted to RMB6.113 billion, of which, RMB3.107 billion was attributable to the Group. Subsequent to 1H 2021, the Group continued to seize land acquisition opportunities and has acquired two sites in Wuxi, the PRC for a total GFA of 299,000 sqm with a total investment amounting to RMB4.540 billion in July 2021.

Commenting on the Group’s development strategy, Mr. Zhong Sheng Jian, Yanlord’s Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, said, “Given the backdrop of strong economic recovery across the PRC during the reporting period, Yanlord’s development strategy of focusing on building premium developments in high-growth economic regions and cities within the PRC continues to deliver business growth.”

Yanlord will maintain its strategic focus to strengthen its presence in core high-growth cities in the Yangtze River Delta and Greater Bay Area as well as Chengdu, Shenyang, Wuhan and Tianjin, the PRC. Against a backdrop of rapid urbanisation, these regions offer strong fundamentals and a positive economic outlook that attracts talent to sustain the market growth. Yanlord’s highquality developments are highly sought after by home owners looking to upgrade.

With the constantly introduction of various regulations and control policies across the PRC by central and local authorities as well as the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic, Yanlord has adopted stringent investment strategies and prudent financial management policies to sustain its long-term business growth and control risk. The Group will uphold its competitive strength and market reputation to deliver high-quality products to customers.

Yanlord’s premium product positioning and development capabilities have been key drivers of its growth over the years. The Group will continue optimising its product range and enhancing its management system to ensure efficient resource allocation. It will also continue improving services to ensure Yanlord can maintain its high standards while expanding its customer base and achieving growth.

Landbank and new launches in 2H 2021

As of 30 June 2021, the Group together with its joint venture and associates held a total GFA of approximately 10.734 million sqm of landbank in the prime location of 19 high-growth cities in six major economic regions in the PRC, Singapore and Malaysia. Approximately 51.3% of total landbank is located in Yangtze River Delta, and 21.2% in Greater Bay Area. Tier 1, New Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities of the PRC and Singapore accounted for over 93.3% of the total landbank.

In line with the strong recovery of the PRC real estate industry, the Group together with its joint ventures and associates will continue to launch new projects for pre-sales in accordance with its development schedule. This would include launching of new projects and new batches of existing projects in 2H 2021, namely:

– Yangtze River Delta: Yanlord Arcadia, Poetic Villa, Moons Villa and Shanghai Olympic Garden (Phase 3 – Section 2) in Shanghai; Riverbay Century Gardens (Phase 2) and Majestive Mansion in Nanjing; Lantern (Phase 1) in Suzhou; Hangzhou Bay (Phase 4); Yanlord Riverside Gardens (Phase 1) and Yanlord The Mansion in Park in Yancheng; Central Lake (Phase 1) in Wuxi;
– Bohai Rim: Star Century in Tianjin; Tangshan Nanhu Eco-City – Land Parcel A14; Yanlord Century Plaza and The Mansion in Park in Jinan; Yanlord on the Park in Shenyang;
– Greater Bay Area: Yanlord Century Mansion and Yanlord Reverie Plaza in Shenzhen; Four Seasons Park (Phase 1) in Zhongshan; and
– Central China: The Yangtze Garden (Phase 1) in Wuhan.

Disclaimer

This press release may contain forward-looking statements that involve assumptions, risks and uncertainties. These forward-looking statements are based on the Group’s current intentions, plans, expectations, assumptions and views about certain future events and are subject to risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are not within the Group’s control. Actual future performance and outcomes of certain events and results may differ materially from the Group’s current intentions, plans, expectations, assumptions and views about the future. Examples of these factors include, inter alia, general industry and economic conditions, interest rate movements, cost of capital and capital availability, changes in operating expenses such as employee wages and benefits, governmental and public policy changes, changes to laws and regulations, acts of god and the prevailing global COVID-19 pandemic. Accordingly, forwardlooking statements are not, and should not be construed as a representation as to the future performance of the Group. The past performance of the Group is not indicative of future performance as well.

While the Group has taken reasonable care to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information provided in this press release, neither the Group nor any of its affiliates, advisers or representatives shall be liable (in negligence or otherwise) for any loss or damage of any kind (whether direct, indirect or consequential losses or other economic loss of any kind) suffered due to any omission, error, inaccuracy, incompleteness, or otherwise, any reliance on such information contained in this press release.

Shareholders, investors and potential investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forwardlooking statements, which are based on current view of the Group on future events. Shareholders, investors and potential investors should consult their stockbrokers, bank managers, solicitors or other professional advisers if they have any doubt about the actions they should take.

About Yanlord:

Yanlord is a real estate developer focusing on developing high-end fully-fitted residential, commercial and integrated property projects in strategically selected key and high-growth cities in the PRC and Singapore. Yanlord has been listed on the Mainboard of the Singapore Exchange since June 2006. As at 30 June 2021, the Group’s total asset was approximately RMB156.0 billion.

Since Yanlord’s foray into the PRC property market in 1993, it has successfully developed a number of large-scale residential property developments with international communities of residents. Building on its established track record for developing high-end residential property developments in prime locations within affluent cities of the PRC, the “Yanlord” name has been developed into a premium brand synonymous with quality within the property development industry of the PRC. Typically, Yanlord’s residential property developments are characterised by large-scale, multi-phased projects designed and built by international architects, leading designers and reputable contractors. Currently, the Group has an established presence in 19 key high-growth cities within the six major economic regions of the PRC, namely:

– Yangtze River Delta – Shanghai, Nanjing, Suzhou, Hangzhou, Nantong, Yancheng, Taicang
and Wuxi;
– Western China – Chengdu;
– Bohai Rim – Tianjin, Tangshan, Jinan and Shenyang;
– Greater Bay Area – Shenzhen, Zhuhai and Zhongshan;
– Hainan – Haikou and Sanya; and
– Central China – Wuhan.

In Singapore, Yanlord currently has two residential projects under development, namely Leedon Green and Dairy Farm Residences.

Since 2003, Yanlord has been developing high-quality commercial and integrated properties for long-term investment purpose, such as shopping malls, offices, serviced apartments and hotels. Currently, Yanlord holds a portfolio of core completed investment and hotel properties, including Yanlord Landmark and Hengye International Plaza in Chengdu; Yanlord Riverside Plaza in Tianjin; Yanlord Marina Centre in Zhuhai; Crowne Plaza Sanya Haitang Bay Resort in Sanya; and Yanlord International Apartments, Tower A and Yanlord Landmark in Nanjing, in the PRC. The Group also holds a high-quality investment property portfolio and hotels in Singapore, including UE BizHub CITY (including Park Avenue Clemenceau), UE BizHub TOWER, UE BizHub WEST, Rochester Mall and Park Avenue Rochester and Park Avenue Robertson. These projects are generating a growing rental income and increase the asset value for the Group. More information about Yanlord can be found on the Company’s corporate website at www.yanlordland.com.

Analysts & Media Contact:

Michelle Sze
Head of Investor Relations
Yanlord Land Group Limited
Phone: +852 2861 0608
Michelle.sze@yanlord.com.hk

Emma Xu
Investor Relations and
Corporate Communication
Executive
Yanlord Land Group Limited
Phone: +65 6336 2922
Emma.xu@yanlord.com.sg

Krystal Xu
Investor Relations Associate
Yanlord Land Group Limited
Phone: +65 6336 2922
Krystal.xu@yanlord.com.sg


HKTDC Food Expo and concurrent fairs open today

  • Week-long global gourmet food parade and a whole lot more

The HKTDC Food Expo, HKTDC Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition), HKTDC Hong Kong International Tea Fair, HKTDC Home Delights Expo and HKTDC Beauty & Wellness Expo, hosted by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), opened today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC).

The five public fairs have assembled 900 exhibitors from Hong Kong and beyond to showcase a global selection of delicacies and lifestyle products. About 85% of the exhibitors said they are making available at least one consumption voucher payment method to provide a smoother shopping experience for visitors.

Edward Yau, Secretary of Commerce and Economic Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (front row, fourth from right), Dr Peter K N Lam, Chairman of the HKTDC (front row, fourth from left), Margaret Fong, HKTDC Executive Director (front row, third from right), and other distinguished guests officiated at the opening ceremony.
The Food Expo is a summer shopping hotspot, attracting thousands of public visitors. The Public Hall presents a global selection of specialty food products.

In addition to the five public fairs, the International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products (ICMCM), jointly organised by the HKTDC and the Modernized Chinese Medicine International Association, runs at the HKCEC on 12 and 13 August.

Officiating at this morning’s opening ceremony for the fairs was Guest of Honour Edward Yau, Secretary of Commerce and Economic Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). Margaret Fong, HKTDC Executive Director, said: “Given the current travel restrictions, we are grateful to see group and individual exhibitors from outside Hong Kong showcasing products through their local representatives, including those from Mainland China, Cambodia, Finland, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Norway, the Philippines, Poland, Thailand and Vietnam. Their presence underlines Hong Kong’s strength as the ideal trading platform through which food suppliers from around the world can expand their business networks. We are most delighted to welcome 900 exhibitors who are showing their support for these events.”

On-site hygiene measures to ensure safe shopping experience
The well-being and safety of exhibitors and visitors is the top priority at the exhibitions. Various measures have been put in place to protect people against the pandemic, including requiring everyone entering and staying in the fairground to wear a mask; not allowing eating, drinking and sample tasting in the fairground; setting up temperature-screening stations; providing hand sanitiser at multiple locations around the venue; and stepping up the cleaning and disinfection of exhibitors’ booths and the venue itself. Physical ticket sales for the August exhibitions are not available at the fairground to avoid the use of cash and minimise contact. Visitors can pay with their Octopus cards at the entrance toll booths to gain entry. To spread the flow of visitors and encourage the public to visit the exhibitions during non-peak hours, the HKTDC has introduced morning and night admission tickets at special prices.

Updates on the visitor flow and crowd control measures at the HKCEC will be provided on the event website for the consideration of those wishing to visit the fairs. For more details, please visit hkfoodexpo.hktdc.com/tc

Food Expo (12-16 Aug): wide selection of delicacies and culinary masterclasses
The 31st Food Expo comprises the Gourmet Zone and the Public Hall. The Public Hall, which opens throughout the five-day fair, showcases a global selection of food items including Japanese salted half boiled egg marinated in sea salt from Okinawa (booth: 1B-D02); Malaysian bak kut teh from Klang Back Street King Seng (booth: 1B-C21); radish pickles with three times more Chinese parsley, deep fried garlic, sakura shrimp and dried chillies (booth: 1C-B34) and low-calorie cauliflower rice (booth: 1E-E21). The Premium Food Zone in the Public Hall features food items offered by more than 20 renowned brands, including Tai Pan’s brand-new vegan snowy mooncakes, Maxims’ “Minions Collection” mooncakes, as well as other products from Nissin, Chui Lau Heung, WH Group, Chewy, Kee Wah, Wing Wah, Super Star Group, Tao Ti and more. New joiners in 2021 include Sau Tao and Chen Yun Pao Chuan.

The much-anticipated Gourmet Zone is open to the public for four consecutive days (12 to 15 August) and features five thematic zones, namely Asian Cuisine, Western Delicacy, Sweet Delight, Green Palate and Coffee Avenue. Speciality food items are featured in each zone, including tender aged sashimi with rich umami taste (booth: 3C-B17); lemon ginger kombucha that is both healthy and delicious (booth: 3C-E08); decaffeinated sparkling coffee tea brewed from Bolivian Cascara (booth: 3C-F24); Japanese Kohakuiro plum wine that uses 100% Japanese plums soaked in distilled brandy (booth: 3C-A02); and Daitouryou premium white peach from Yamanashi, Japan with 13.5 degrees of sweetness (booth: 3C-F07).

Activity highlights at the Food Expo include:
– Culinary masterclasses on “Less Salt and Sugar” recipes to encourage urbanites to develop healthy eating habits (13 August)
– Cooking demonstrations performed by eight celebrity chefs, including Ricky Cheung, Executive Chef of The Food Story; Kitty Siu, Executive Chef of Kitty’s Kitchen; Will Leung, Executive Chef of 1111; Sandy Keung, founder and Executive Chef of Good BBQ; and Ng Kong-kiu, founder and Chef of Ju Xing Home (12 to 15 August)
– Local Fresh 123 at which the Fish Marketing Organization and Vegetables Marketing Organization will introduce fresh ingredients from local fisheries and farms (13 August)
– A series of seminars covering topics such as Dark Magic in Microwave Cooking (13 August), Plant-based Meat Development in Hong Kong (13 August), EatSmart Restaurant Star+ (12 August), Diet Therapy (14 and 15 August) and Foodwise (13 August)
– The Beef-and-egg King Prize Presentation Ceremony, highlighting what goes into making one of the most popular choices served at Hong Kong-style cafes, the beef and egg sandwich (13 August)
– Hosted by Jacky Chan, Chef’s Dialogue invites three renowned Hong Kong chefs to share their tips on cooking, eating and ingredient selection (14 August)

Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition) (12-16 Aug): expert sharing, huge range of drinks
A new addition to the August fairs, the Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition) introduces a broad range of old and new world wines, such as Luna di Luna prosecco (booth: 3D-A01) and wine from the East Helan Mountain Area of Ningxia, Mainland China (booth: 3C-G14). Popular craft beers include Hokkaido Brewing Melon Ale (booth: 3D-A31); MiMi Beer Ruby Roselle Gose (booth: 3C-G13) and Lion Rock Signature, a beer with a silky foam and a refreshing complex fruity taste (booth: 3C-G12). Japanese sake and spirits lovers will enjoy Pure Rice Daiginjo Dairi Special Limited, a masterpiece sake by Fujinishiki brewed with Omachi rice and low-flow water from Mount Fuji, with a specially designed bottle in the shape of the sacred mountain (booth: 3C-G08), Japanese whisky with a unique yuzu and myrtle flavour (booth: 3C-G20) and other interesting brews.

Wine lovers should not miss the series of activities covering the outlook for natural wines (13 August); sake basics delivered by the Hong Kong General Chamber of Wine & Spirits (13 August); a chit-chat on wine and food pairing with TV host Cecilia Wong (14 August); criteria for selecting high-quality wines from different production regions by Anty Fung, an MWM Wine School recognised instructor (14 August); spirit recommendations by the Hong Kong Wine and Spirits Association (15 August), and more.

International Tea Fair (12-16 Aug): selected teas and teaware, inspirational events
The 12th Hong Kong International Tea Fair showcases a variety of high-quality specialty teas, including Rooibos Tea from South Africa (booth: 3D-A12), fully hand-processed Tieguanyin Coal Fired Tea (booth: 3D-A20), 2002 Yiwu Song Ping Hao Lao Shu Tea Block (booth: 3D-A16), premium blended Da Hong Pao and Aged Old Growth Shui Xian from Wuyi Mountain (booth: 3D-B13), Matcha Divine Cloud (booth: 3D-A08A) and other selected teas. Delicate teaware is also featured at the fair, such as NIKKO – FLOWER DANCE designed by Japanese artist Shinpei Naito (booth: 3D-A08), Nambu Iron Kettle from Japan (booth: 3D-A02) and a Famille-Rose tea bowl with an intricate image of a woman teaching her child in the garden (booth: 3D-A10). Activities include an introduction to Japanese tea leaves (13 August), Tea for the Soul (14 August), The Mystery of Tea Therapy (15 August) and a milk tea workshop hosted by KamCha (15 August).

Home Delights Expo (12-16 Aug): one-stop shop for home tech and household products
The Home Delights Expo returns for its seventh edition, running for five consecutive days. The Avenue of Delights gathers multiple lifestyle brands, such as Towngas, ZWILLING J.A. Henckels, Tiger and German Pool, offering various kinds of home appliances, kitchenware, tableware and household items. Featured products include sterilisation items such as a car air purifier that employs NASA-developed technology (booth: 3F-D20) and an intelligent disinfection diffuser using ultrasonic technology (booth: 3G-E07).

In addition, the fair features Hong Kong’s first-ever Smart (IoT) Anti-scorch Gas Built-in Hob (booth: 3F-E02), which can be linked to a mobile application that ensures hassle-free monitoring and supports remote emergency shut-off; and a foldable universal cooker that can be used as an electric oven, a hot pot, a stir-fryer, a grill pan or a barbeque grill (booth: 3F-A16), offering a creative solution for those who love cooking but have limited space at home. Other attractions include a showcase of home design solutions from the Hong Kong Furniture and Decoration Trade Association, while Sharon Lam, Founder of Home Therapy, will deliver a talk on decluttering under the pandemic (12 August).

Beauty & Wellness Expo (12-16 Aug): discover the formula for improved wellbeing
The fifth Beauty & Wellness Expo welcomes the Federation of Beauty Industry (H.K.), Hong Kong Hair & Beauty Merchants Association, International Beauty & Health General Union and The Cosmetic & Perfumery Association of Hong Kong to present a variety of health- and beauty-related products at their pavilions. Popular products include a bedding and mattress spray with an anti-dust mite function and blended Indian Neem and eucalyptus essential oils (booth: 3E-D06); an energy-balancing therapy machine that incorporates big data into body analysis and health advice (booth: 3E-A12); and a professional plasma skin purification treatment that employs thermal plasma condensation technology to purify skin, enhance absorption and accelerate skin regeneration (booth: 3D-C01).

Mask-induced skin problems have become of increasing concern since the pandemic began. Beauty & Health Columnist Yoko Tsang will share tips on treating mask-related skin problems (15 August). On the same day, the Hong Kong China Federation of Bodybuilding & Fitness will stage an event to introduce the Hong Kong Bodybuilding & Fitness Invitation Championship.

ICMCM (12 to 13 August): convergence of healthcare insights
Jointly organised by the HKTDC and the Modernized Chinese Medicine International Association, the International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products (ICMCM) runs on 12 and 13 August. The conference this year is themed “Integrative Medicine for Prevention and Treatment of COVID-19 and Related Disorders: Clinical Studies and Product Development”, presenting invaluable Chinese medicine insights to industry practitioners. The speaker line-up features professors from Yale University in the United States and experts from the Netherlands, Malaysia, Mainland China and Hong Kong. Running in a hybrid format, physical and online sessions will be offered to facilitate the exchange of ideas among participants. Registered Chinese medicine practitioners in Hong Kong are eligible for the CME application.

More opportunities to spend consumption vouchers plus daily lucky draw
The HKTDC has invited Octopus and WeChat Pay to provide exhibitors with exclusive discounts to encourage them to use the payment platforms, which in turn will give visitors more opportunities to spend their recently received consumption vouchers under the HKSAR Government’s Consumption Voucher Scheme. Besides, the “Buy-more-win-more Lucky Draw” will be held every day during the exhibition period with prizes including five-star hotel accommodation packages, restaurant vouchers, luxury food items, skincare kits and health products. Spending HK$200 or more with a single receipt gives visitors one entry into the lucky draw – the more you spend, the greater your chance of winning.

The HKTDC has launched the August Happy Buy website for the five exhibitions, allowing the public to keep up to date with the latest shopping news and various flash sales, including a HK$1 Super Star Seafood Feast, bottled Hong Kong-style milk tea and Musang King durian snowy mooncakes. E-coupons can be downloaded in advance to enjoy all the special offers at the exhibitions. For more details, please visit the August Happy Buy website at https://ecoupon.hktdc.com/food

In addition, a vaccination incentive campaign is running during the fairs to give out 30,000 free admissions to citizens who have been vaccinated (that is, having received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine). Members of the public can enter the venue for free on weekday mornings (12, 13 and 16 August before 12 noon) by presenting their COVID-19 vaccination record. Free admission will be given on a first-come-first-served basis while the quota lasts. Many exhibitors are also participating in providing discounts and gifts for people who have been vaccinated. For details, please visit the August Happy Buy website.

Websites:
– HKTDC Food Expo: https://hkfoodexpo.hktdc.com
– HKTDC Hong Kong International Wine & Spirits Fair (Special Edition): https://hkwinefairaugust2021.hktdc.com
– HKTDC Hong Kong International Tea Fair: https://hkteafair.hktdc.com
– HKTDC Home Delights Expo: https://homedelights.hktdc.com
– HKTDC Beauty & Wellness Expo: https://hkbeautyexpo.hktdc.com
– The International Conference of the Modernization of Chinese Medicine and Health Products (ICMCM): https://icmcm.hktdc.com
– August Happy Buy website: https://ecoupon.hktdc.com/food/
– Photo Download: https://bit.ly/2VGD0x5

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 trade publications, 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 Communication & Public Affairs Department
Clayton Lauw, Tel: +852 2584 4472, Email: clayton.y.lauw@hktdc.org
Angel Tang, Tel: +852 2584 4544, Email: angel.hc.tang@hktdc.org
Sam Ho, Tel: +852 2584 4569, Email: sam.sy.ho@hktdc.org

Spritzer Malaysia Offers Exclusive Promotions to Quench Thirst on Hot Days

  • Shoppers can get attractive vouchers, half-off prices and free shipping from Spritzer’s Shopee store

Spritzer Malaysia (Spritzer or the Company), which produces Malaysia’s best-selling natural mineral water, is having exclusive promotions on the Company’s official Shopee store in conjunction with Shopee’s 8.8 Brands Festival that ends on 08 August 2021.

Stay safe, remain hydrated and healthy in this hot weather by shopping for various Spritzer Natural Mineral Water subscription plans from the comfort of home through https://shopee.com.my/spritzer.os from as low as RM127.50 per month catering to different household needs that can be delivered safely to your doorsteps.

In addition, every subscription plan comes with a trendy rechargeable water pump dispenser that is not only functional but also lightweight in design, compact and portable.

Spritzer is also pleased to introduce So Tinge!, a new line of fruit flavoured carbonated drinks coming in three flavours – watermelon, grape and lemon packed in 325ml bottles that is refreshing and thirst quenching on a hot day.

In conjunction with Shopee’s 8.8 Brands Festival, Spritzer is offering on the Company’s official Shopee store the Spritzer Sparkling range at 50% off the regular price. Up until 08 August 2021, consumers can also enjoy the following attractive store vouchers:
– RM10 off, with a minimum spend of RM120
– 88% off, with a minimum spend of RM1, capped at RM5
– 50% off, with a minimum spend of RM1, capped at RM5

Besides these attractive offers, consumers who shop on the Spritzer official Shopee store can get free shipping with a lowered minimum spend of RM8, daily 88% off and RM8 branded deals. There are also up to 38 million Shopee Coins up for grabs with Shopee prizes when shoppers play Shopee Farm, Spin & Win, Shopee Bubble, Shopee Candy and more.

Check out Spritzer’s official Shopee store to find out more – https://shopee.com.my/spritzer.os.

Contact:
Muhammad Hakim
Email: h.juraimi@swanconsultancy.biz

About Spritzer Berhad
Spritzer Berhad (MY:7103; SPZ.MY; SPTZ.KL) is the largest bottled water producer in Malaysia. The brand, SPRITZER, is Malaysia’s best selling natural mineral water, produced and bottled from a vast environmentally-friendly 220 acre site replete with plentiful natural mineral water resources and lush greenery. Learn more at http://www.spritzer.com.my.

Straits receives approval from Marine Department to commence operation for Asia’s Largest STS Energy Transhipment Hub in Labuan

Straits Inter Logistics Berhad (Straits or Company), a Bursa Malaysia Listed Company, announced today that Victoria STS (Labuan) Sdn Bhd (Victoria STS) had received approval from Marine Department Malaysia on 30 July 2021 to commence operations to develop an integrated offshore Ship-to-Ship Transhipment Hub.

The Company has mobilized its resources and infrastructure in preparation to commence operation of the STS Transhipment Hub in the coming fourth quarter 2021.

Victoria STS is a 70% owned subsidiary of Fajar Maritime and Logistics Sdn Bhd, which in turn is a 60% owned subsidiary of Straits.

Concurrently, Victoria STS has also on 30 July 2021 received approval from Marine Department Malaysia on the Marine Risk Assessment (“MRA”) in accordance with the terms of reference of MRA. The assessment was done as part of the requirements to be complied before 8 January 2022 to develop an integrated offshore Ship-to-Ship (“STS”) Energy Transhipment Hub within the port limits of Victoria Bay.

The Company expects to commence and complete the development of the STS Energy Transhipment Hub which includes setting up the key facilities and equipment such as tugboats, pneumatic fenders, LNG cryogenic equipment and single point mooring system by the fourth quarter of 2021.

Marine Department Malaysia had on 12 July 2021 granted the approval for the Company to develop the STS as announced to Bursa Malaysia.

The STS hub will be Straits’ flagship energy project which will be located within the port limits of Victoria Bay deep water area spanning a vast 3309 hectares supporting an initial six (6) STS berths with safe water depths of up to 30 meters. The development will advance the introduction of state-of-the-art multi-functional energy transhipment facilities that will be able to accommodate LNG carriers up to the size of a Q-Max and Very Large Crude Carriers (VLCC).

Victoria Bay is strategically located along international shipping and energy trade routes. Straits’ plan to develop the STS Hub is set to be one of the largest offshore LNG and LPG energy transhipment hubs in Asia. The STS hub is also strategically located within the vicinity of Labuan Liberty Port which is managed and operated by Megah Port Management Sdn Bhd (“MPM’), a 51% owned subsidiary of Straits.

Commenting on the latest development, Straits Group Managing Director Dato Sri Ron Ho Kam Choy said, “Since our announcement on 12 July 2021 on the STS Transhipment Hub, we have received numerous enquiries from both notable international and local entities that are interested in partnering us to develop this into Asia’s largest STS Transhipment Hub. We are engaged in discussion with many parties in preparation for this project and Straits is gearing to kickstart this within the next few months. The other entities within the Straits Group will also stand to benefit from the business spin-offs of this project.”

CEKD Berhad Signs IPO Underwriting Agreement with M&A Securities

CEKD Berhad (CEKD or the Company), a die-cutting solutions provider as well as manufacturer of die-cutting moulds and trader of related consumables, tools and accessories, has on even date signed an underwriting agreement with M&A Securities Sdn Bhd (M&A Securities).

This underwriting agreement is a precursor to the upcoming initial public offering (IPO) of the Company on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities Berhad (Bursa Securities) that will take place in September 2021.

L-R: M&A Securities Head of Corporate Finance Mr. Gary Ting; M&A Securities Managing Director of Corporate Finance Datuk Bill Tan; CEKD Managing Director Ms. Yap Kai Ning; CEKD Deputy Executive Chairman Mr. Yap Tian Tion

As reported in the prospectus exposure on the Securities Commission’s website, CEKD’s IPO entails a proposed public issue of 50.59 million shares where 9.73 million shares will be made available for application by the Malaysian public. An additional 9.73 million will be allocated to eligible directors, employees, and contributors to the Company; another 6.81 million shares will be reserved for private placement to selected investors and 24.32 million shares will be reserved for private placement to Bumiputera investors approved by the Ministry of International Trade and Industry (MITI).

Under the agreement, M&A Securities will underwrite 19.46 million of the total proposed issue of shares allocated to the Malaysian public or through pink forms. The balance of 31.13 million issue shares available for application by Bumiputera investors approved by MITI and selected investors will not be underwritten and will be placed out by the M&A Securities.

Managing Director of CEKD Berhad, Ms. Yap Kai Ning said, “The signing of the underwriting agreement brings us closer towards our goal of taking CEKD public through an IPO. As one of the leading custom die-cutting solutions providers in Malaysia, we believe that this will be extremely beneficial for CEKD in strengthening and solidifying our position in the industry from an operational and financial standpoint.”

Managing Director of Corporate Finance of M&A Securities, Datuk Bill Tan said, “We are honoured to have been a part of CEKD’s journey towards listing on the ACE Market of Bursa Securities. We want to extend our appreciation for having been appointed as CEKD’s Adviser, Sponsor, Sole Underwriter and Placement Agent of the IPO. The Company has come a long way since its inception, and we are proud to have been a part of this important milestone in its history. This IPO marks another impressive achievement for the Company, and we wish them all success and the best.”

CEKD’s principal market is mainly from Malaysia which contributed 85.6% of the overall revenue in the financial year ended 31 August 2020. CEKD’s customers are mainly from the paper printing and packaging, electrical and electronics, automotive, plastic packaging, textile and leather industries.

HKTDC twin jewellery shows conclude today

  • Nearly 30% of public visitors spend more than HK$10,000 each
  • Jewellers see travel restrictions as key business challenge

The 37th HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and 7th HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), concluded today. In addition to trade buyers, the twin shows were also open to jewellery-loving public visitors for the first time this year.

The five-day shows attracted more than 13,700 industry buyers and over 17,000 public visitors who came to explore and purchase a wide array of jewellery products. The twin shows also run online until 5 August to enable global jewellers and traders to engage in business talks via video conferencing, with more than 1,200 online meetings between exhibitors and buyers arranged. As of 29 July, the online edition of the shows recorded some 2,500 buyers exploring products and conducting business discussions online.

The physical editions of the 37th HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show, 7th HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show and the HKTDC International Sourcing Show all drew to a successful close today.
For the first time, this year’s jewellery shows were open to the jewellery-loving public who came to purchase quality jewellery products at competitive prices.
Jewellery parades displayed new and unique jewellery designs.

Recovering purchasing power creates new opportunities
With the pandemic changing the global economy and international travel restrictions disrupting regular business travel, enterprises are looking to conduct cross-border business through both online and physical channels. Benjamin Chau, Acting Executive Director of the HKTDC, said: “An independent survey conducted on-site found that 44% of the interviewed exhibitors and buyers considered business travel restrictions during the pandemic as the biggest current challenge. On a more positive note, 31% and 19% of respondents respectively believed that the recovering purchasing power of customers and business leads driven by e-tailing would be the main source of new business opportunities this year.”

Mr Chau continued: “The HKTDC is adopting a strategy that clearly aligns with the survey results. Addressing both exhibitors’ needs and market trends, we made a swift decision to open the twin shows to public visitors for the first time. This has enabled exhibitors to reach out to more retail clients and broaden their customer base. Also, the fact that the two shows run in a unique physical and online format for the first time has helped to create more business opportunities for traders.”

During the shows, the HKTDC conducted an on-site survey in which more than 800 exhibitors and buyers were interviewed. The survey found that buyers and exhibitors remain cautious regarding the market outlook, with 54% of respondents expecting overall sales to decrease this year and only 29% expected sales to remain unchanged. In terms of sourcing prices and production costs, 45% of respondents said they were under more pressure. Despite this, more than half of them (54%) expected that retail prices will remain unchanged.

Diamond jewellery items were the most popular products purchased at the shows
Regarding the growth prospects for jewellery products in major countries and regions over the next two years, respondents considered that North America (41%), Western Europe (33%) and Hong Kong (31%) were the most promising traditional markets, while Mainland China was considered by 51% as the most promising emerging market. Hong Kong was recognised by interviewed buyers as an ideal sourcing hub, with quality (75%), use of material (73%) and services (71%) being the three most appreciated aspects.

In terms of popular product categories, the survey found that nearly half (49%) of the respondents favoured karat-white gold, followed by karat-rose gold (42%) and karat-yellow gold (38%). Diamonds remained the most popular (54%) among all gemstones.

Half of the respondents expected trendy fashion jewellery to have the greatest market potential. The survey also found that 28% of public visitors interviewed had spent more than HK$10,000 each on-site and that diamond jewellery items were the most popular products (51%) purchased at the shows.

Exhibitors value jewellery shows as effective business platforms
The twin shows were the first two physical trade fairs staged by the HKTDC since the pandemic began, creating business opportunities for exhibitors and buyers alike.

A Hong Kong exhibitor, Just Gold Company Limited, joined the Jewellery Show for the first time this year. Arthur Tang, the company’s Managing Director, Greater China, shared that the show was an effective business platform that helped their company enhance its branding and increase market exposure. “We promoted our new designs as well as special collections for our 30th anniversary. A number of buyers approached us to enquire more about our products. We’ve already concluded some business deals and the response has been encouraging,” said Mr Tang.

Another exhibitor, Yvonne Pong, Director, Wing Hang South Sea Pearl Company Limited, considered the Jewellery Show as the perfect place to promote their pearl jewellery collections and drive new business. “Customers love our classic designs, and jewellery with gold-coloured pearls is particularly sought after. The response has been better than expected. We’ve met some quality buyers, including a number of new customers,” she said. “The HKTDC has done an excellent job making the show a success despite the pandemic. I am confident the show will get even better, with more overseas buyers coming to source products once travel restrictions are lifted.”

A local buyer, Edmond Chan, Head of Jewelry Asia, Luxeford Hong Kong Limited, was pleased to see the Jewellery Show being staged again. “We specialise in purchasing high-end jewellery and watches. I am here looking for partners and to find suitable products. I’ve already found an exhibitor to explore cooperation with whose jewellery collection boasts some outstanding designs,” he said.

A host of activities were held during the two shows, including seminars on changes that the pandemic and online marketing have brought to the jewellery industry supply chain, a series of expert talks tailor-made to guide the public on the appreciation of rare-colour diamonds and pearl evaluation methods, jewellery smart bidding session, workshop, lucky draws and jewellery parades. These events not only facilitated the exchange of market intelligence among industry players, but also enhanced public knowledge about gemstones and jewellery products.

Physical edition of International Sourcing Show ends concurrently
The physical edition of the HKTDC International Sourcing Show also ended today, the 4-day show attracted over 14,000 buyers to attend or explore products online. To help local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) grasp business opportunities, the HKTDC contacted quality buyers through its network of 50 offices worldwide and arranged close to 1,100 business matching meetings during the physical show.

This physical edition of the International Sourcing Show was complemented by an online element, which started in March, enabling traders to stay connected both online and offline and boosting business opportunities during the pandemic.

Fair Websites:
– Hong Kong International Jewellery Show: https://hkjewelleryshow.hktdc.com
– Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show: https://hkdgp.hktdc.com
– International Sourcing Show: https://isshow.hktdc.com
– Photo download: https://bit.ly/3x6UrTR

About the 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 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.

Media Enquiries:
HKTDC Communications & Public Affairs Department
Agnes Wat, Tel: +852 2584 4554, Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.org
Janet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.org

HKTDC twin jewellery events open today

First trade shows following pandemic, open to public for first time

The 37th HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and 7th HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), opened today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) and will run until 29 July.

The twin shows are the first two physical trade fairs to be staged by the HKTDC since the pandemic began and are being held in a hybrid format for the first time, with both physical and online exhibitions. The online show will run until 5 August to help global jewellers capture business opportunities as the pandemic continues.

The 37th HKTDC Hong Kong International Jewellery Show and seventh HKTDC Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show, organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), opened today and runs until 29 July at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC), helping jewellers capture business opportunities as the pandemic continues. The twin shows are the first physical trade fairs to be staged by the HKTDC since the pandemic began.
The highlight zone at the Jewellery Show, World of Glamour, showcases a selection of refined and precious pieces.
The Antique & Vintage Jewellery zone features a wide selection of antique pieces.

The physical fairs have attracted close to 440 exhibitors and are open to jewellery-loving public visitors for the first time. The majority of exhibitors are local companies as travel restrictions are still in effect between Hong Kong and the rest of the world. However, some overseas exhibitors have sent their local representatives to participate in the fairs, representing companies from Germany, Switzerland, the United States, Italy and India. Some of the overseas exhibitors are also joining the online exhibition. In addition to local trade buyers, the HKTDC has mobilised its 50 global offices to invite overseas buyers to take part in the fairs and conduct business deals via video conferencing.

Hong Kong exports of pearls, gemstones and rough diamonds increase by 83.1%
As the global economy begins to recover, and taking into account the relatively low base in the same period in 2020, Hong Kong’s exports of fine jewellery registered a sharp increase in the first five months of 2021, climbing 82.3% year-on-year to a total of HK$28.65 billion. For raw materials, the gross export value of pearls, gemstones and rough diamonds climbed 83.1% in the same period this year to HK$57.24 billion. The total export value of fine jewellery is already back to the pre-pandemic level with a positive export outlook for pearls, gemstones and rough diamonds.

There has also been a corresponding rise in confidence in the retail market. The provisional figure for retail sales in the first five months of 2021 is HK$146.31 billion, a rise of 8.9% year-on-year. There was also a sharp increase in the sale of jewellery products, watches and clocks and valuable gifts, climbing 34.2%. The jewellery industry is heavily reliant on the retail sector, which remains hampered by ongoing travel restrictions and compulsory quarantine measures. The full recovery of business and leisure travel is still dependent on the pandemic situation.

HKTDC Deputy Executive Director Benjamin Chau said: “The HKTDC twin jewellery shows provide a one-stop marketing and sourcing platform to showcase the latest and finest jewellery items as well as raw materials, helping Hong Kong to maintain its position as a trading and sourcing hub for this important sector. We are happy to see that the jewellery export and retail markets have been picking up, and we hope our fairs can assist industry players in navigating the current challenges.”

He added: “Following the availability of vaccines and the gradual rollout of the global vaccination programme, we have seen some easing in the local pandemic situation with a corresponding improvement in the consumer sentiment. The first payment under the Consumption Voucher Scheme will be made at the beginning of August, and we believe Hong Kong companies will grasp the opportunity presented by our shows to source jewellery of different types and price ranges in anticipation of this business opportunity. Meanwhile, consumers will soon have some extra money in their pockets and can join the shows to look for daily wearable or collectable jewellery items.”

World of Glamour showcases wide range of precious jewellery
Different product zones have been set up at the Jewellery Show this year, including the World of Glamour, the highlight zone that has attracted several well-known local jewellery companies to showcase a selection of refined and precious pieces including:

  •  A Blue Sapphire and Diamond Set from Valerie & Co Limited (Booth 3E-F11) with natural South African diamonds and rare Sri Lankan sapphire that highlight its extraordinary preciousness. This is an extravagant and timeless piece for the collector.
  •  The Monet collection designed by Sabina Lee of Green G. (Booth 3E-E12) pays due respect to the famous French impressionist painter, Claude Monet. Referencing Monet’s unique broken-colour painting technique, the designer has used precious and semi-precious stones of different colours and shades to create the Monet ring and earrings.

In addition, products zones such as Antique & Vintage Jewellery, Fine Jewellery, and Silver and Finished Jewellery highlight different kinds of accessories, such as jewellery made with gemstones, Fei Cui, antique pieces, trendy designs and more. Highlighted pieces include:

  • The Sparkling Ocean jewellery set from John Chan Jewellery Limited (Booth 3E-G29) in the Fine Jewellery zone features 14 baroque pearls, 94 emeralds and 735 diamonds. The set is one of a kind, showcasing a gorgeous and eye-catching glamour.
  • The Kingfisher Brooch presented by YUKINGFISHERART (Booth 3E-H11) in the Antique & Vintage Jewellery zone demonstrates traditional Chinese handicraft. This gorgeous and elegant piece has a bright shine and vibrant colours that will never fade.

Valuable jewellery raw materials on display
The Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show features different product zones arranged according to raw stone categories to make it easier for buyers to find what they need. The Hall of Fine Diamonds showcases prime quality diamonds of different shapes, cuts, grades and rare colours. The Treasures of Nature zone displays a wide array of dazzling coloured stones and semi-precious gems from various regions, while the Treasures of the Ocean zone houses some rare fine pearls. An impressively large number of special exhibits are on display, including:

  • A Paraiba Tourmaline from RMC Gems Limited (Booth 3G-C02) features a delicate briolette cut where the refraction highlights the quality of the gem. The stone is a copper-bearing tourmaline with an extraordinary neon blue colour.
  • The Mix Shape Light Yellow Diamond Ring presented by Dynamic International (Booth 3F-F04) uses 18K white and yellow gold together with a pear-shape rose-cut diamond to create an elegant yet unique style.
  • Bright Town Gems Jewellery Co (Booth 3G-F02) showcases a series of 925 Silver Pendants with different precious stones such as black agate, prehnite, smoky quartz and rose quartz.

Expert sharing sessions broaden horizons of industry players
A host of seminars are being held during the twin shows, helping to boost the knowledge and broaden the horizons of jewellery industry players. The seminar “What’s Next for Jewellery Industry Supply Chains” will be hosted by a representative from De Beers tomorrow (26 July); representatives from Chow Tai Fook will talk about digital marketing on Tuesday (27 July); and a speaker from the Gemmological Association of Hong Kong (GAHK) will talk about the internationalisation and testing standards for Fei Cui.

Since the twin fairs are open to the public for the first time, there are also expert talks aimed specifically at jewellery-loving visitors. They include a representative from internationally renowned jewellery college L’ECOLE sharing on the art and science of rubies; representatives from the Diamond Federation of Hong Kong and Jade Manufacturers Association discussing how to appreciate rare-colour diamonds; and a representative from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) introducing its pearl evaluation methods. In addition, visitors can learn how to make rose twist rings at the “Rosy Twist – Handmade Rose Ring Tutorial”.

Daily lucky draws offer quality prizes
The Jewellery Smart Bidding session is being held today (25 July) with visitors invited to bid for their favourite jewellery items among 20 pieces starting at around 10% of the original prices. Various jewellery parades and lucky draws are also being held throughout the fairs. Lucky draw prizes include an 18K white gold pendant with a natural ruby and diamonds, an Italian 925 Sliver 18K rose gold vermeil simple-cuff bangle, Fei Cui ornaments, and more.

Physical edition of International Sourcing Show runs concurrently
The physical edition of the HKTDC International Sourcing Show begins tomorrow and runs for four consecutive days (26 to 29 July) in parallel with the twin jewellery shows at the HKCEC. The International Sourcing Show will take the form of a display showcase featuring thousands of the latest products. Themed “Your Source of Inspirations”, the event will highlight a broad range of quality lifestyle products and solutions under four themed categories:

  • Smart Home features household and textiles items for the bathroom, bedroom, dining room, kitchen, living room, home workspace and garden
  • Smart Play showcases kids’ products, including dolls and figurines, vehicle toys, interactive and educational games, as well as baby care and nursery products, accessories, strollers and gear
  • Smart Tech displays electronic products, medical and healthcare products, and lighting solutions
  • Smart Style highlights a range of garments, fashion accessories and gift ideas, as well as printing and packaging solutions

Moreover, the Hong Kong Exporters’ Association, Guizhou Provincial Department of Commerce from Mainland China, Korean Trade-Investment Promotion Agency as well as the Busan Chamber of Commerce and Industry from Korea have organised group pavilions presenting a quality selection of offerings to buyers.

Websites
– Hong Kong International Jewellery Show: http://hkjewelleryshow.hktdc.com/
– Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem & Pearl Show: http://hkdgp.hktdc.com/
– International Sourcing Show: http://isshow.hktdc.com/
– Photo download: https://bit.ly/3zwBc7V

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 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.

Media enquiries
HKTDC Communications & Public Affairs Department
Agnes Wat, Tel: +852 2584 4554, Email: agnes.ky.wat@hktdc.org
Janet Chan, Tel: +852 2584 4369, Email: janet.ch.chan@hktdc.org

Dynafront Successfully Lists on LEAP Market of Bursa Malaysia

Dynafront Holdings Berhad (DynaFront or the Company), an insurance technology specialist, made a successful debut on the LEAP Market of Bursa Securities Malaysia Berhad (Bursa Securities) today at 23 sen per share, which was 2 sen or 9.6% higher than its offer price of 21 sen per share.

L-R: DynaFront Non Independent Non Executive Director Mr. Chan Choong Wai; DynaFront Executive Director/Group Chief Operating Officer Ms. Gan Hui Ping; DynaFront Managing Director/Group Chief Executive Officer Mr. Chan Eng Lim

The Company and its subsidiaries (“Group”) specialises in developing and providing proprietary and customised enterprise information technology (“IT”) solutions for a broad range of life insurance companies, including conventional life insurers, Takaful operators, independent corporate life insurance agencies and group assurance operations. DynaFront’s solutions, offered either as proprietary software products or managed services, have been successfully deployed to markets in Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Philippines, Taiwan and Hong Kong.

The Group offers a comprehensive suite of software solutions extending from front-end sales automation systems to back-end individual and group life administration systems including PrecentiaCMS for front-end sales automation system, PrecentiaLife for back-end individual life administration system as well as PrecentiaGroup, a suite of back-end group life administration systems for employee benefits. DynaFront also offers PrecentiaTakaful supporting the Wakalah, Mudharabah and hybrid concepts and can be integrated into various Takaful models.

Mr. Chan Eng Lim, Managing Director and Group Chief Executive Officer of DynaFront said during the Listing Ceremony today, “We pride ourselves with the fact that many of our key management staff were formerly from the life insurance industry. Our extensive industry background and in-depth domain knowledge, coupled with our broad IT expertise, have been instrumental not only in the design and engineering of our software solutions, but also to our Group’s success over the years.”

“Moving forward, our Group will continue to expand and evolve our solution offerings by adopting microservices based architecture to deliver consistent, high-quality services with security, reliability and agility in all our solutions to our customers. With this adoption of microservices architecture, we expect our next generation of software solutions to be lightweight with modern technology stacks and AI driven, in our quest to create a smarter insurance ecosystem.

DynaFront is also moving into the virtual insurance space, with the Group’s research and development team focusing on the development and implementation of new mobile applications in wearable technologies, including web-enabled smart devices that use embedded systems, such as processors, sensors and communication hardware, to collect, send and act on data acquired from their environments such as temperature screenings and, movement detections to smart watches and wearable health devices. Real-time syncing and processing of data between wearables and our platform microservices as well as real-time health monitoring will enable life insurance companies to structure insurance products which are more customised and suited for the policy holders.

Hong Leong Investment Bank Berhad is the Approved Adviser, Placement Agent and Continuing Adviser for the listing exercise.

For more information, please contact Hakim J. Munif at +60 12-318 5410 or h.juraimi@swanconsultancy.biz.

Close to half of Manufacturing & Supply Chain Professionals in Southeast Asia Perceive their Companies to be Lagging the Industry in Digital Transformation

Almost half of the respondents, around 46.6%, believed that their own companies fell behind the industry average when it comes to utilising digital tools as part of business processes, according to a survey conducted by AIBP and Oracle from March to April. The survey counted 193 professionals*, mainly from IT, innovation & business backgrounds in manufacturing and supply chain companies across the largest economies in Southeast Asia: Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines & Vietnam.

The manufacturing industry plays a significant role in local economies of Southeast Asian countries, contributing more than 20% of Gross Domestic Products in markets like Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia and Thailand. Recent US-China trade tensions have also increased expectations of how manufacturing can contribute to markets like Indonesia and Vietnam. Concurrently, local governments are focused on uplifting local manufacturing capabilities by implementing policies to encourage and support initiatives towards Industry 4.0

The survey also found that 46.6% of respondents believed that the top priority of implementing digital solutions should be to drive operational efficiency in a bid to reduce costs, while 16.6% feel that it should be used to increase or create revenue opportunities.

The COVID-19 pandemic has seen supply chain disruptions across industries – while some companies struggled to come to terms with unusual fluctuations in supply and demand, other companies were better prepared. Thossaporn Petporee, SVP and part of Charoen Pokphand Foods digital committee outlined how Charoen Pokphand Foods have been ahead of the curve when it comes to digital transformation because of their experiences navigating past disruptions like the African swine fever and Avian Influenza. “Each time a pandemic hit, we prepared ourselves better. In our farms, we have the highest level of biosecurity and AI to identify animals across the farm and sales areas. We do well because we keep up to date, keep challenging ourselves.” The recent pandemic has led them to develop innovative online solutions like Vet Online and chatbots which are made available to the farms across their network to allow for diagnosis of animal diseases remotely. Charoen Pokphand Foods saw a net profit increase of 41% in 2020.

Companies from the Manufacturing and Supply Chain industries continue to innovate. In 2020, 3 out of 10 winners of the annual ASEAN Enterprise Innovation Awards were from the Manufacturing and Supply Chain industries, including Kalbe Farma and Astra International. Both companies embarked on digital transformation projects which involved integration of their ERP across business units to allow for a more connected supply chains; enabling real time feedback from across the entire value chain.

“There is an urgent need to reorganize one’s supply chains in the wake of 2020 and the recent Suez Canal blockage, and manufacturers in the region are rightly realising that what they have in-house is not enough when creating robust and resilient logistics processes that keep the business moving efficiently,” said Michael Lim, GTM Leader, ERP & Digital Supply Chain, Oracle. “With new capabilities upgraded onto Oracle Fusion Cloud Supply Chain Management each quarter, we are helping our customers streamline logistics to fulfil orders faster, cheaper and more sustainably to deliver the operational excellence they desire.”

*The survey was sent to professionals working in 1,600 publicly listed companies and/or subsidiaries of MNCs in Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam & Singapore. These companies represent the following sectors: Consumer Durables, Non-Durables, Electronic Technology, Process Industries & Producer Manufacturing.

About AIBP

AIBP serves as an avenue for public and private organisations in Southeast Asia to access and exchange information about growth and innovation within the B2B space. With a current network of over 30,000 stakeholders in Southeast Asia, AIBP continues to develop ecosystems by engaging in activities which create value-adding information for our stakeholders seeking to make transformative impacts within their organisations. AIBP is a business unit of Industry Platform, a growth consulting firm based in Singapore.

About Industry Platform Pte Ltd

We work with public and private organisations to develop value-adding partnerships within the industries and markets which we serve. Our consulting framework advocates pursuing an integrated approach in assisting our clients in their growth and development initiatives. This includes market research, and access through business development strategy formulation and execution.

Haily Group Berhad debuts at 11 sen premium, 16.18% above IPO price

Haily Group Berhad (Haily or the Group) has debuted on the ACE Market of Bursa Malaysia Securities today with a sterling performance. At 9.00a.m., the Group’s shares opened at 79 sen, which was a 11 sen premium or 16.18% higher than its initial public offering (IPO) price of 68 sen per share, with the first traded volume recorded at 7,191,600 shares.

Haily is principally a main contractor involved in building construction of residential and non-residential buildings in the Southern Region of Peninsular Malaysia, particularly Johor, and is also involved in the provision of rental of construction machinery.

The Group’s IPO involved a public issue of 30.00 million shares at 68 sen each and raised gross proceeds of RM20.40 million. Of the 30.00 million shares, it was offering 8.92 million shares to the Malaysian public, 10.00 million to its eligible directors, employees and persons who have contributed to the success of the Group, and 11.08 million to selected investors by way of a private placement.

In addition, there was an offer for sale by its promoters that involved 18.00 million existing ordinary shares in Haily by way of a private placement to selected investors. Its promoters are Haily Holdings Sdn Bhd, See Tin Hai and Kik Siew Lee.

The offering of 8.92 million shares to the Malaysian public was oversubscribed by 38.81 times. TA Securities Holdings Berhad is the Principal Adviser, Sponsor, Underwriter and Placement Agent in relation to the IPO.

Commenting on the listing ceremony, Haily Independent Non-Executive Chairman Tuan Haji Mohd Jaffar Bin Awang (Ismail) said: “The listing marks an important milestone for Haily as it successfully brings the Group to greater heights, and everything began from the humble beginnings of our founders Mr. See Tin Hai and Madam Kik Siew Lee back in 2007. I believe that the listing exercise will help to unlock the potential of the Group by enhancing our reputation as we market our construction services and expand our customer base in Malaysia.”

At the virtual listing ceremony, he said that the Group plans to continue focusing on its core competency in building construction in Johor while leveraging on its experience to extend its reach to the other districts. “Our Group will be able to leverage on our capabilities as a Grade G7 contractor which allows us to bid and carry out any size of building construction projects irrespective of the contract value.”

He explained that Haily had completed a total of 65 building construction projects with a total contract value of RM1.29 billion since 2008.

“We have on-going projects that can sustain us at least until 2023. Currently, Haily has 18 building construction projects as well as 2 civil engineering related construction projects. The total secured contract value and unbilled contract value as at 10 June 2021 stood at RM460.04 million and RM249.58 million respectively,” he elaborated.

Tuan Haji Mohd Jaffar Bin Awang (Ismail) said that the Group also plans to expand into industrial building construction to address opportunities provided by economic developments in Johor, adding that the Group had completed 6 industrial building construction projects with a total of 68 units of factories located in the districts of Johor Bahru and Kulai.

“We will also use part of the proceeds raised from our IPO exercise to purchase additional construction machinery and equipment mainly to facilitate better scheduling of our construction work when the projects require concurrent usage and in anticipation of future growth,” he said, adding that improving the overall operational capabilities is also a priority of the Group besides expanding its foothold in other districts in Johor.

On its dividend policy, the Group has an intention to distribute dividends of at least 30% of its annual profits attributable to its shareholders upon completion of the listing. However, it is not a legally binding obligation/guaranteed commitment to the shareholders. Dividends declared and distributed by the Group for the financial year ended 31 December (“FYE”) 2017, FYE 2018, FYE 2019 and FYE 2020 were RM10.01 million, RM5.25 million, RM6.00 million and RM2.50 million, respectively.