Tourism Archives - Page 15 of 16

Dusit International partners with leading educational and culinary institutes to develop Thailand’s first academy of gastronomy with business incubation facilities – ‘The Food School’

Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, is set to expand its hospitality education business in the kingdom with a unique joint venture offering experiential training in Italian, Japanese, and Thai cuisines – plus exclusive incubation services for food and beverage startups – in a state-of-the-art facility in Bangkok.

A winning partnership: Equity partners in the THB 336 million development include Dusit International; Glowfish Co-Working Space; Allied Metals; and La Scuola Internazionale di Cucina Italiana (ALMA).

Called The Food School, the project occupies 3,200 sq m of thoughtfully designed space set over three floors at the new Creative & Startup Village in the city’s Sam Yan district, just a five-minute walk from Sam Yan MRT underground station.

Equity partners in the THB 336 million development include Dusit International; Glowfish Co-Working Space (under privately owned real estate investment company, Heritage Estates Co., Ltd.); Allied Metals, one of Asia’s leading suppliers of professional kitchens and kitchen infrastructure; and La Scuola Internazionale di Cucina Italiana (ALMA), recognised as the world’s leading education and training centre for Italian cuisine.

Designed to provide an innovative, progressive and experiential learning environment, and targeted at young professionals, keen amateurs, career-switchers, and entrepreneurs seeking to get the best possible start for their food and beverage businesses, The Food School will bring together three globally recognised institutions – including Dusit’s own Dusit Thani College; Japan’s renowned Tsuji Culinary Institute; and ALMA. Each will offer long-course modules in Thai cuisine, Japanese cuisine, and Italian cuisine and bakery, respectively.

Students will also have access to The Food School’s unique entrepreneurial incubator platform, The Test Kitchen, which will offer facilities for product testing and experimentation; business planning services; professional coaching and mentorship from renowned local chefs; and exclusive opportunities to get financial support from investors during specially arranged pitching sessions.

Alongside sourcing sustainable produce from selected farms throughout Thailand, the academy will bring in premium imported ingredients to ensure authenticity. Regular events will showcase innovations and new food and beverage business trends. A community dining room, meanwhile, will serve as a venue for students, instructors, locals, visitors, mentors and mentees to exchange ideas and evaluate new concepts.

“The Food School aims to create a vibrant, dynamic and collaborative ecosystem that brings together Thailand’s food community to drive positive social, environmental, and economic developments in the food and beverage industry at large,” said Ms Suphajee Suthumpun, Group CEO, Dusit International. “Three clear highlights set The Food School apart as a unique proposition in Bangkok. First, it is the first mover in the market to offer multi-cuisine training and business incubation all under one roof. Second, its Test Kitchen facilities will provide an unrivalled opportunity for experienced or fledgling chefs and savvy entrepreneurs to trial new concepts, receive advice on these concepts from seasoned industry experts, and tap into Thailand’s dynamic food and beverage market. Third, the Food School will play an active role in the food and beverage community by hosting regular events that bring together key industry players to discuss the latest trends, evaluate concepts, and brainstorm the way ahead for established and upcoming food and beverage businesses alike.”

Ms Suthumpun said that no other facility offers such comprehensive services for culinary startups and young professionals in Bangkok.

“By responding to the professional needs of the market in the new normal, fully leveraging Dusit’s rich experience in providing hospitality education for more than 20 years, and offering direct access to mentorship from celebrated chefs and well-known restaurateurs in Thailand, and later globally, we look forward to helping The Food School’s students, entrepreneurial associates, and community supporters to fulfill their potential with services, facilities and hands-on learning specially created to equip them for success in the brighter post COVID-19 days ahead.”

Ms Prim Jitcharoongphorn, Chairperson of the Executive Board at Allied Metals, said, “The highlight of The Food School facility is the design of kitchen classrooms that fosters teamwork and collaboration among peers. Our facility is equipped with eco-friendly equipment which is energy-efficient, user-friendly, and versatile. Kitchens at The Food School are truly state of the art. We are delighted that our innovative solutions will contribute to the sustainable development of culinary talents in Thailand by facilitating maximum productivity with minimal environmental impact.”

Mr Gavin Vongkusolkit, Managing Director of Heritage Estates Co. Ltd & Founder of Glowfish Co-Working Space, said, “Glowfish is all about people, community, and genuine collaboration, and any partnership or project we undertake will always be built on these solid foundations. Bringing our expertise in value-driven collaboration to The Food School, we look forward to building a thriving ecosystem of creativity and innovation, not only for Thailand’s food industry but also for the wider benefit of tourism, agriculture, wellness, sustainability, entrepreneurship, education and many connecting parts of our society and economy.”

For more information, please contact: info@thefoodschool.com or www.thefoodschool.com

Photo caption:
A winning partnership: Equity partners in the THB 336 million development include Dusit International; Glowfish Co-Working Space; Allied Metals; and La Scuola Internazionale di Cucina Italiana (ALMA).
https://www.acnnewswire.com/topimg/Low_Dusit20211028.jpg

Pictured (from left):
– Mr Siradej Donavanik, Managing Director – ASAI Hotels and Vice President of Development & Projects – Dusit International
– Mr Gavin Vongkusolkit, Managing Director of Heritage Estates Co. Ltd & Founder of Glowfish Co-Working Space
– Ms Suphajee Suthumpun, Group Chief Executive Officer, Dusit International
– Ms Prim Jitcharoongphorn, Chairperson of the Executive Board of Allied Metals (Thailand) Co. Ltd
– Mr Yannis Janssens, Technical Director, The Food School
– Mr Laurent Casteret, School Director, The Food School

About Dusit International

Established in 1948, Dusit International is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Building on its two core areas of business – Hotels & Resorts and Hospitality Education – the company has expanded its operations over the past four years to comprise five business units. The additional units include Foods, Property Development, and Hospitality-Related Services. Today, the company’s property portfolio comprises more than 300 distinctive hotels, resorts and luxury villas operating under six brands across 17 countries worldwide, as well as two leading hospitality colleges with campuses in Thailand and the Philippines. Following a three-pronged strategy for sustainable growth, including balance, expansion and diversification, the company has recently expanded into food production, on-demand hospitality services, and property development to reach new markets and add further recurring streams of revenue to the company. For more information, please visit www.dusit-international.com

Official photos of Dusit Hotels & Resorts can be downloaded at medialib.dusit.com

Media Contact:
Sureerat Sudpairak | Corporate Director of Public Relations | Dusit International
Tel: +66 (0) 2200 9999 ext. 3321 | Mobile +66 (0) 89 006 8697 | Email: sureerat.sp@dusit.com

NextPlay Technologies, Inc. Announces Plans to Launch a New Class of Tokenized Medical Real Estate in Conjunction with NextPlay’s Extension into Medical Tourism

NextPlay Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: NXTP) (the Company or NextPlay), a digital business ecosystem for consumers, digital advertisers, video gamers and travelers, announced today the plans to form the MedTrek Fund, which is expected to be a blockchain securitized closed-end fund. The fund once formed, is anticipated to seek to list on multiple regulated exchanges, subject to regulatory approval.

The Company has designed a new class of medical facilities that integrates unique geometries and technologies it believes will reduce the spread of infection.

According to a World Health Organization (“WHO”) report in 2019, an estimated 7 percent of hospitalized patients in high-income countries and 10% of hospitalized patients in low- and middle-income countries will acquire one or more health care-associated infections (“HAIs”) at any given time.

The new class of medical facilities, planned to be developed by the Fund, is expected to combine proprietary physical designs and technologies with the goal of protecting patients from the spread of infection and harm from physical intrusion.

The Company believes that the Fund, once formed, will have the ability to offer facilities designed to lower the likelihood of infection for four medical asset classes including primary care, tertiary care, long term care and resort convalescent facilities. The Fund is also expected to invest in wellness-oriented residential and commercial facilities that are integrated with the proposed physical and technological layers.

NextPlay is in discussions with prime landowners in several countries to contribute their property assets to the proposed Fund. These countries, including Thailand which had the world’s largest share of medical tourism in 2019 (according to the Grandview Research report discussed below), have experienced significant declines in tourism due to COVID-19, but are expected to have robust medical tourism growth in the coming years. Additionally, NextPlay is also in discussions with certain medical service providers located around the world who are interested in offering services in facilities that resist infection spread, and offer a higher level of physical security.

The Fund’s initial focus is expected to be Southeast Asia where we believe such facilities are most likely to benefit from expected growth in medical tourism. According to Grandview Research, the medical tourism market is expected to grow from $44.8 billion in 2019 to $207.9 billion by 2027, with Thailand currently having the largest market share.

Bill Kerby, co-CEO of NextPlay, stated, “The MedTrek Token is planned to be the first of several crypto-securitized alternative assets that we expect to issue through our FinTech division which includes our indirect ownership in Longroot Holding (Thailand) Company Limited. Through our efforts to date, we believe we have identified opportunities in medical tourism and its adjacencies. Leveraging on our partners’ significant understanding of real estate development, we believe that we can help catalyze on the growth potential we see in medical tourism by using common sense design and the deployment of latest technologies including Internet of Things and Machine Learning.”

The planned Fund discussed above has not been formed to date, and such formation and anticipated benefits and offerings, are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, and may not progress on the timeline as currently anticipated, or at all.

The Company’s short video explaining MedTrek is available here. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Ni1vM7XFno

About NextPlay Technologies
NextPlay Technologies, Inc. (Nasdaq: NXTP) is a technology solutions company offering games, in-game advertising, crypto-banking, connected TV and travel booking services to consumers and corporations within a growing worldwide digital ecosystem. NextPlay’s engaging products and services utilize innovative AdTech, Artificial Intelligence and Fintech solutions to leverage the strengths and channels of its existing and acquired technologies. To learn more about NextPlay, visit NextPlayTechnologies.com, and follow us on Twitter @NextPlayTech and LinkedIn.

Important Cautions Regarding Forward-Looking Statements and Disclaimers
This press release includes “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the federal securities laws. Forward-looking statements give our current expectations, opinions, belief or forecasts of future events and performance. A statement identified by the use of forward-looking words including “will,” “may,” “expects,” “projects,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimate,” “should,” and certain of the other foregoing statements may be deemed forward-looking statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, these statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual future activities and results to be materially different from those suggested or described in this news release.

Factors that may cause such a difference include risks and uncertainties related to our need for additional capital which may not be available on commercially acceptable terms, if at all, which raises questions about our ability to continue as a going concern; certain required regulatory approvals, which may not be met within our expected timeframe, if at all; the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had, and is expected to continue to have, a significant material adverse impact on the travel industry and our business, operating results and liquidity; amounts owed to us by third parties which may not be paid timely, if at all; certain amounts we owe under outstanding indebtedness which are secured by substantially all of our assets and penalties we may incur in connection therewith; the fact that we have significant indebtedness, which could adversely affect our business and financial condition; uncertainty and illiquidity in credit and capital markets which may impair our ability to obtain credit and financing on acceptable terms and may adversely affect the financial strength of our business partners; our ability to close, timely, or at all, the acquisitions of certain intellectual property assets from Fighter Base and Token IQ, as previously disclosed; the officers and directors of the Company have the ability to exercise significant influence and voting control over the Company; stockholders may be diluted significantly through our efforts to obtain financing, satisfy obligations and complete acquisitions through the issuance of additional shares of our common or preferred stock; if we are unable to adapt to changes in technology, our business could be harmed; if we do not adequately protect our intellectual property, our ability to compete could be impaired; our long-term travel business success depends, in part, on our ability to expand our property owner, manager and traveler bases outside of the United States and, as a result, our travel business is susceptible to risks associated with international operations; unfavorable changes in, or interpretations of, government regulations or taxation of the evolving ALR, Internet and e-commerce industries which could harm our operating results; risks associated with the operations of, the business of, and the regulation of our recent direct and indirect acquisitions of Longroot Holding (Thailand) Company Limited (Longroot), HotPlay Enterprise Limited (HotPlay) and NextBank International (formerly IFEB), as well as our compliance with applicable U.S. and Thailand laws in connection therewith; the market in which we participate being highly competitive, and because of that we may be unable to compete successfully with our current or future competitors; our potential inability to adapt to changes in technology, which could harm our business; the volatility of our stock price; risks associated with the integration of the operations of HotPlay Enterprise Limited, which acquisition we recently competed; the fact that we may be subject to liability for the activities of our property owners and managers, which could harm our reputation and increase our operating costs; and that we have incurred significant losses to date and require additional capital which may not be available on commercially acceptable terms, if at all. More information about the risks and uncertainties faced by the Company are detailed from time to time in the Company’s periodic reports filed with the SEC, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, under the headings “Risk Factors”. These reports are available at www.sec.gov. Other unknown or unpredictable factors also could have material adverse effects on the Company’s future results and/or could cause our actual results and financial condition to differ materially from those indicated in the forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected. The forward-looking statements in this press release are made only as of the date hereof. The Company takes no obligation to update or correct its own forward-looking statements, except as required by law, or those prepared by third parties that are not paid for by the Company. If we update one or more forward-looking statements, no inference should be drawn that we will make additional updates with respect to those or other forward-looking statements.

The token contemplated in this release (collectively, the “Securities) have been registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), in reliance upon the exemption provided by Regulation S thereunder. The Securities referenced herein are not for distribution, directly or indirectly, in or into the United States or to any U.S. person as defined in Regulation S. This announcement is not an offer of Securities for sale into the United States. The Securities have not been registered under the Securities Act and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, U.S. persons (as such term is defined in Regulation S) unless they are registered under the Securities Act or they are exempt from registration under the Securities Act. Hedging transactions involving these Securities may not be conducted unless in compliance with the Securities Act.

Source: NextPlay Technologies, Inc.

Company Contact:
NextPlay Technologies, Inc
Richard Marshall
Director of Corporate Development
Tel (954) 888-9779
richard.marshall@nextplaytechnologies.com

Hatten Land Signs Exclusive Agreement with EnjinStarter to Digitise Group Assets and Create New Digital Assets, including NFTs and Tokens Exchangeable with Current Loyalty Points Linked to its Malls and Hotels

Hatten Land Limited (Hatten Land) said today that its subsidiary Hatten Technology (S) Pte. Ltd. (Hatten Technology) has signed an agreement with Prakal Pte. Ltd. (known as EnjinStarter) to develop a dedicated token system and create digital assets, including non-fungible tokens (NFTs), to promote the development of a digital economy in Melaka where it has substantial hospitality and retail assets.

The Exclusive Framework Agreement is part of a strategic shift by SGX Catalist-listed Hatten Land. Hatten Land is re-purposing its extensive mall footprint in Melaka and pivoting towards digital and blockchain activities as the pace of digitalisation in the world accelerates.

EnjinStarter will develop a token strategy (“tokenomics”) that will allow tokens and NFTs to be exchanged or connected with the current loyalty point system of the Hatten Group as well as other participating hotels, attractions, malls and shops, starting with Melaka. EnjinStarter will also provide maintenance and support services for the Token System and Metaverse to be developed.

This project with EnjinStarter will start mid-October 2021 with delivery of the Token System and the crypto-related elements and/or components connected to the Token System and Metaverse due by end- March 2022. The initial term of the Exclusive Framework Agreement is two years and can be automatically renewed every two years unless the Agreement is terminated.

EnjinStarter has entered into an agreement with Enjin Pte. Ltd. (“Enjin”), that EnjinStarter is a Special Purposes Vehicle (“SPV”) set up to serve as a launchpad for the ecosystem development within the Enjin platform which powers many pioneering blockchain games, applications, and projects.

Also a marketplace for NFTs, Enjin has over 20 million users spanning more than 250,000 gaming communities. Enjin has backed over US$1.14 billion blockchain assets, which collectively contain 12.5 million worth of ENJ coins.

With substantial hospitality and tourism footprint in Melaka, Hatten Land and its parent company, the Hatten Group conglomerate, are the leading developers in this strategic historical city located along the Straits of Melaka that dates to the 15th century. The Group owns and operates retail malls with a combined built-up area of over six million square feet within Melaka, where it also owns or operates four hotels.

Under the Agreement, both Hatten Technology and EnjinStarter will collaborate to develop a Metaverse, starting with a digital ‘twin city’ for Melaka (“Digital Melaka”) that aims to promote physical and digital tourism in Melaka and accelerate the growth of the city’s digital economy.

Mirroring the physical world, Digital Melaka will feature the rich heritage, activities and key attractions in Melaka as well as Hatten Group properties in digital format. This will allow digital assets, including tokens and NFTs, to be created and monetised.

In addition, EnjinStarter will establish its regional headquarters in Melaka, both physically and digitally, to jointly operate a virtual game development incubator, a blockchain gaming showcase and arcade. EnjinStarter will also cultivate and promote Melaka artistic activities such as partnering with local artists for NFT creations, marketing and sales within Digital Melaka.

The EnjinStarter collaboration follows recent agreements signed by Hatten Land under which at least two parties will install and operate up to 3,000 cryptocurrency mining (“cryptomining”) rigs within its properties in Melaka. Hatten Land will leverage its existing infrastructure and lower energy costs in Malaysia. Such costs may be lowered further as Hatten Land installs solar panels on the rooftops of the malls to enable energy-efficient or ‘green’ cryptomining, accelerating its initiatives to create sustainable digital assets.

Hatten Land’s digital strategies include enabling tokens and NFTs as well as online-to-offline (“phygital”) commerce and gaming. Digital assets that emerge from these initiatives can achieve tangible and tradable value over time as creative activities are enhanced and built around a dedicated blockchain platform.

Dato’ Colin Tan, Executive Chairman and Managing Director of Hatten Land, said: “The Digital Melaka project is intended to be a major catalyst for our strategic shift to become a hub for blockchain and digital initiatives as we re-purpose our existing mall footprint in Melaka.

“We are partnering with EnjinStarter, which has a proven track record including a recent successful token listing. Together, we will build a dedicated Metaverse which will usher in a new era of blockchain, e-commerce and creative activities and where everyone can trade and live in.”

Mr. Prakash Somosundram, CEO and Co-founder of EnjinStarter, said: “We are really excited to partner Hatten Land. The Metaverse project brings a new dimension which allows us truly to explore ‘phygital’ opportunities. Hatten Land is a forward-looking partner that is also committed to assemble key stakeholders to work together and deliver this ground-breaking project. Beyond the sky’s limits. Together we are bringing Digital Melaka to the Metaverse and seeking to change the way people create, live, work and play.”

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

Hatten Land Limited began trading on the Catalist board of SGX-ST on 28 February 2017 after the completion of the reverse takeover of VGO Corporation Limited. For more information, visit: www.hattenland.com.sg
Hatten Land share information available at SGX: PH0 / Bloomberg: HATT:SP / RIC: HATT:SI.
Issued on behalf of Hatten Land Limited by WeR1 Consultants Pte Ltd.

Media & Investor Contacts:
Mr Isaac Tang
Mobile: +65 9178 0269
Email: hatten@wer1.net

InvestHK: HKSAR Government’s “Report on Hong Kong’s Business Environment” highlights Hong Kong’s unique advantages and unlimited opportunities

Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) announced today (September 29) a series of promotions building upon the “Report on Hong Kong’s Business Environment: A Place with Unique Advantages and Unlimited Opportunities” (www.hkeconomy.gov.hk/en/environment/index.htm) published this week by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

The Director-General of Investment Promotion of the HKSAR, Mr Stephen Phillips, said that the report, announced by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, on September 27, sets out very clearly the exciting opportunities for businesses from around the world in Hong Kong and at the same time sets the record straight about international investors’ misconceptions of Hong Kong as a result of persistent biased media reports in some quarters.

“The report not only outlines clearly the robust strengths of Hong Kong as an international financial, aviation, innovation and technology, legal and cultural hub, but also highlights the many attractive opportunities the city has to offer multinationals and entrepreneurs who want a reliable, efficient business base in Asia,” Mr Phillips said.

“It is very important for us to tell the real Hong Kong story to the international business community that under the Central Government’s support and the ‘one country, two systems’ principle, Hong Kong and businesses in Hong Kong have a bright future with fantastic opportunities.”

Mr Phillips added, “Our pipeline remains strong with many multinationals, small and medium-sized companies and start-ups still planning to come to our city to develop their businesses and scale into Mainland China and wider Asia. Going forward, with the continued support of the Central Government, we see very bright prospects for Hong Kong’s economy.”

InvestHK is organising a series of global webinars to be held on October 7 for business communities around the world to provide an update on Hong Kong’s latest business environment and key announcements relevant to business in next week’s Policy Address.

A short video summarising the report can be found at https://youtu.be/zhSxxEo32l4.

InvestHK: Government’s “Report on Hong Kong’s Business Environment” highlights Hong Kong’s unique advantages and unlimited opportunities

The Director-General of Investment Promotion, Mr Stephen Phillips, said that the report, announced by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, on September 27, sets out very clearly the exciting opportunities for businesses from around the world in Hong Kong and at the same time sets the record straight about international investors’ misconceptions of Hong Kong as a result of persistent biased media reports in some quarters.

“The report not only outlines clearly the robust strengths of Hong Kong as an international financial, aviation, innovation and technology, legal and cultural hub, but also highlights the many attractive opportunities the city has to offer multinationals and entrepreneurs who want a reliable, efficient business base in Asia,” Mr Phillips said.

“It is very important for us to tell the real Hong Kong story to the international business community that under the Central Government’s support and the ‘one country, two systems’ principle, Hong Kong and businesses in Hong Kong have a bright future with fantastic opportunities.”

Mr Phillips added, “Our pipeline remains strong with many multinationals, small and medium-sized companies and start-ups still planning to come to our city to develop their businesses and scale into Mainland China and wider Asia. Going forward, with the continued support of the Central Government, we see very bright prospects for Hong Kong’s economy.”

InvestHK is organising a series of global webinars to be held on October 7 for business communities around the world to provide an update on Hong Kong’s latest business environment and key announcements relevant to business in next week’s Policy Address.

A short video summarising the report can be found at https://youtu.be/zhSxxEo32l4.

VFS Global opens new UAE Attestation Centres in the Philippines

– From 1 July 2021, customers in the Philippines receive the services at the three new UAE Attestation Centres in Makati, Malate and Cebu
– VFS Global serves the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the Philippines to accept applications for attestation from the Embassy

Customers in the Philippines can directly visit the UAE Attestation Centres located in Makati City, Malate in Manila and Cebu without any prior appointment for document attestation services which commenced on 1 July 2021. Services at the Centre include personal documents (Birth Certificate, Marriage Certificate etc.), educational documents (School Certificate, Diploma etc.), and commercial documents (Business Registrations, Invoices).

Customers who are travelling to UAE or the Middle East can submit their documents in person for attestation by walk-in directly at our new centres that adhere to the stringent safety and physical distancing guidelines prescribed by the World Health Organisation and local authorities. The convenience of doorstep document collection and delivery with real-time tracking of key documents via courier will be made available soon for the residents in these three locations. The mode of payment is cash only at present. Please note that all documents submitted for attestation should already have an apostille by DFA (Department of Foreign Affairs), UAE.

Commenting on the inauguration of the new UAE Attestation Centres, Mr Jiten Vyas, Regional Group COO, VFS Global, “We are excited to extend our long-standing partnership with the Government of the UAE to the next level through the launch of the new Attestation Centres in cooperation with the UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs. By leveraging on our vast operations network and expertise in Attestation services globally, our newly opened UAE Attestation Centres across the Philippines will offer an enhanced experience for customers with a secure application process and with a range of Value Added Services like pick and drop, end-to-end support, courier, translation etc.”

Key advantages of the new UAE Attestation Centre include:
– Secured end to end process legalisation process
– Safety of documents shared for attestation and legalisation
– On-time processing and return of important documents

Important information for UAE attestation services customers in the Philippines:

As the safety of our customers and employees is our priority, VFS Global has implemented strict health and safety measures in line with Government guidelines for physical distancing at the Centres. Customers must wear a face mask/face covering to enter the premises, and a temperature reading will be required on arrival. Customers exhibiting COVID-19 symptoms, including fever (higher than 37.3 degrees Celsius), cough and difficulty in breathing, will not be allowed to proceed with their applications and be allowed to reschedule their appointments for another day.

Customers can visit our website: http://www.vfsattestation.com/philippines/ or call our helpline number +639190615894 or email us infodvpcmnl@dubaivisa.net for more details.

UAE Attestation Centre
– Address in Makati City: VFS Global, Unit M01, Mezzanine Floor, Ecoplaza Building, 2305 Chino Roces Ave.Extension, Makati City, Metro Manila 1231, Philippines
– Address in Malate: VFS Global, Ground Floor, DY International Building, San Marcelino corner Gen. Malvar St. Malate, Manila 1004, Philippines
– Address in Cebu: VFS Global, 5th Floor Unit 503 Kepwealth Center, Samar Loop cor. Cardinal Rosales Avenue, Cebu Business Park, Cebu City 6000, Philippines
Email id: infodvpcmnl@dubaivisa.net
Helpline: +639190615894
Website: http://www.vfsattestation.com/philippines/
Submission Timing: 0900 hrs – 1300 hrs (Monday to Friday, except holidays)

*VFS Global will be responsible only for accepting applications for client missions. All applications submitted will continue to be assessed and processed by the respective client missions. Timelines for turnaround are as per the discretion of the authorities.

About VFS Global

VFS Global is the world’s largest outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions worldwide. With 3523 Application Centres, operations in 143 countries across five continents and over 230 million applications processed (since inception in 2001) as on 30 June 2021, VFS Global is the trusted partner of 62 client governments. The company manages non-judgmental and administrative tasks related to applications for visa, passport and consular services for its client governments, enabling them to focus entirely on the critical task of assessment.

VFS Global is majority-owned by the global investment organisation EQT. The Swiss-based Kuoni and Hugentobler Foundation holds a minority stake in VFS Global. EQT is a global investment organization with offices in Europe, North America and Asia-Pacific and a 27-year track record of consistent investment performance across multiple geographies, sectors, and strategies. EQT AB Group is listed on the Nasdaq Stockholm stock exchange. EQT manages and advises a range of specialized investment funds and other investment vehicles that invest across the world with the mission to generate attractive returns and future-proof companies. EQT funds’ investors do not influence portfolio companies’ decision making or strategies. Nor do they have access to private and confidential business assets or client and customer data.

Media Contact
Sukanya Chakraborty
sukanyac@vfsglobal.com
communications@vfsglobal.com

Dusit International expands hotel operations in Thailand with the opening of pet-friendly dusitD2 Hua Hin

With a wide range of modern facilities and state-of-the-art air filtration systems, the new hotel offers a comfortable, convenient and safe escape for families and groups of friends in the heart of the popular seaside town, just 200km south of Bangkok

Hua Hin, Thailand, 15 July 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has expanded its operations in the kingdom with the opening of dusitD2 Hua Hin, an upscale pet-friendly retreat in the heart of Hua Hin, a popular seaside destination just three hours by car from Bangkok.

Located just a seven-minute walk from Hua Hin’s main beach and near popular local attractions such as Cicada Market and Bluport Hua Hin Resort Mall, the new hotel is designed to offer a modern and comfortable haven where families and groups of friends can recharge, relax, and easily discover everything the destination has to offer, with space to bring their pets with them.

Alongside 152 contemporary guest rooms and suites ranging in size from 30 to 92 sq m, including selected rooms equipped with pet-friendly amenities for up to two pets, the bright and airy property offers a wide range of facilities for work, rest and play.

Current dining facilities include Cafe Soi, an all-day dining restaurant where guests can take a culinary journey to Southern Thailand and indulge in traditional delicacies from Surat Thani, Phuket, Songkhla, Krabi and beyond; Som Bar, a vibrant rooftop bar inspired by Hollywood party pads where guests can enjoy cocktails and admire panoramic sea views; and Dusit Gourmet, Dusit’s signature bakery and coffee shop, where guests can indulge in a variety of Thai and international favourites, all made using high-quality ingredients.

Alongside a rooftop infinity pool, a large garden, and a fully equipped gym, the hotel also offers an extensive kids club, The Beary Club, featuring a children’s swimming pool, a play area with a sandbox and a treehouse, and a wide range of activities for children ages 3 to 15. Bag painting, tree planting, cooking classes, and treasure hunts led by friendly mascot ‘Beary’ – a unique ‘half bear, half hog deer’ character specially designed to raise awareness of endangered animals in the region – are just some of the fun activities offered. All children are given a Beary Map on arrival with the chance to win an ice cream by collecting stamps throughout the property.

All room types, from the airy Deluxe to the spacious Two-Bedroom Suite, feature the latest in connectivity, with high-speed internet access and 55″ 4K UHD Smart TVs for easy streaming of entertainment. Each room and public area is also equipped with a Panasonic Nanoe™ X machine, which filters the air to eliminate odours and inhibit the activity of airborne bacteria and pet-derived allergens.

Guests seeking to stay on top of work during their travels will find plenty of quiet, thoughtfully designed corners to focus on their important tasks. The versatile and well-equipped Dok Jok function room is also available for up to 76 people in a theatre-style arrangement, or 37 people in a classroom set-up, ensuring ample space for safe and memorable gatherings.

Alongside Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality, all guests also benefit from Dusit’s carefully crafted ‘Dusit Care’ services. Designed to offer ultimate peace of mind, these go beyond enhanced hygiene protocols to deliver additional convenience, experience and value while maximising guest safety. Flexible check-in, anytime breakfast, and mobile payment methods are just some of the services offered.

dusitD2 Hua Hin, which officially opens on 16 July 2021, is Dusit’s third hotel in Hua Hin. The renowned Dusit Thani Hua Hin, a deluxe beachside resort, has been operating in the destination for 30 years. Dusit also recently began managing Seapine Recreation Centre, next to Suanson beach. Dusit International’s property portfolio now comprises more than 300 properties, across six brands, in 17 countries worldwide.

“We are delighted to open dusitD2 in Hua Hin and expand our market reach to delight a whole new segment of travellers in this popular seaside destination,” said Ms Suphajee Suthumpun, Group CEO, Dusit International. “Complementing perfectly the full-service offerings of our long-standing Dusit Thani Hua Hin resort, dusitD2 Hua Hin is ideally positioned to meet the needs of the large drive-to-leisure market from Bangkok. From modern Thai-inspired design and our distinctive gracious hospitality, to pet-friendly rooms, extensive lifestyle facilities, and a great location near popular shopping areas and the main beach, the hotel has all the ingredients for a highly memorable stay. Ultimately, dusitD2 Hua Hin offers excellent value for young families, groups of friends, and even those looking for a comfortable and convenient base to work from anywhere. And all guests can rest assured that, with Dusit, their well-being and safety will always come first.”

To mark its opening, dusitD2 Hua Hin is now offering The Journey has Begun package featuring accommodation in a Deluxe room, breakfast for two adults, an extra bed for children under 18 years old, and 20% food and beverage discount at Cafe Soi and Som Bar.

Available for booking from 16 July 2021 for stay dates through 31 August 2021, the package starts at THB 2,499 net per night. Guests who book to stay two consecutive nights will also receive a southern set dinner for two at Cafe Soi.

For more information about the hotel and its opening room rates, please visit https://www.dusit.com/dusitd2-huahin/specialoffers/the-journey-has-begun/.

Ms Suphajee Suthumpun, Group CEO, Dusit International

About Dusit International

For more information, please visit www.dusit-international.com

Official photos of Dusit Hotels & Resorts can be downloaded at medialib.dusit.com

Media Contact:
Sureerat Sudpairak | Director of Marketing Communications | Dusit International
Tel: +66 (0) 2200 9999 ext. 3321 | Mobile +66 (0) 89 006 8697 | Email: sureerat.sp@dusit.com

Dusit International makes its Oman debut with the opening of dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar

Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has expanded its presence in the Middle East with the opening of dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar – the first Dusit-branded hotel in Oman.

dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar, Oman

Owned by the Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN), which is the executive arm of the Sultanate for tourism development, the deluxe resort is located within a brand new 8,000 sq m Adventure Park on the Saiq Plateau in the Jabal Akhdar area, just a five-minute drive from the ‘Grand Canyon of the Middle East,’ and two hours by car from Muscat International Airport.

Comprising 252 beautifully decorated rooms and suites, the contemporary resort fully embraces its unique mountain location with a spacious layout that blends seamlessly with its stunning natural surrounds.

Alongside breathtaking views, guests can enjoy a wide range of facilities, including an all-day dining restaurant, a fitness centre, and a large outdoor swimming pool. A specialty restaurant, a Kids Club, and a signature Namm spa offering traditional Thai-inspired massage therapies and treatments are set to open later in the year. Dusit’s new group-wide wellness concept and approach will also be introduced to weave well-being elements throughout the stay experience. With a focus on physical vitality and mental health, this unparalleled approach will include the provision of mountain running, yoga, pilates, Thai boxing, guided meditation workshops, and other experiences and events that harness nature, sustainability, and adventure, to deliver healthy fun for adults and children alike.

The resort is also well-equipped for future business events and social gatherings, with a grand ballroom that can cater for up to 150 guests, and several adjoining meeting rooms featuring the latest audio-visual equipment.

The Adventure Park, slated to open later in the year, will feature exciting activities to delight visitors of all ages, such as zip-line rides offering impressive views of the surrounding valley. A petting zoo and science centre where budding young Einsteins can get to grips with all kinds of fun experiments are also set to open when the world reopens to international travel.

To uniquely link guests with the location, dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar will also soon offer educational hiking, cycling and quad biking tours to ancient forts, traditional markets and other local attractions, such as the historic town of Nizwa, known as the ‘Pearl of Islam.’

Alongside Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality, all guests also benefit from Dusit’s carefully crafted ‘Dusit Care’ services. Designed to offer ultimate peace of mind, these go beyond enhanced hygiene protocols to deliver additional convenience, experience and value while maximizing guest safety. Flexible check-in, anytime breakfast, and mobile payment methods are just some of the services offered.

“We are delighted to make our Oman debut with this vibrant resort which showcases the heritage, culture and visual splendor of the destination in truly distinctive fashion,” said Ms Suphajee Suthumpun, Group CEO, Dusit International. “From enriching wellness experiences and exciting dining journeys to adventurous excursions and a wide range of exhilarating activities, dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar has all the elements in place to provide a highly memorable vacation for visitors of all ages. Bright days are on the horizon for international travel, and we look forward to making the property a resounding success.”

Mr Gerhard Stutz, General Manager, dusitD2 Naseem Resort, Jabal Akhdar, said, “Uniquely blending Dusit’s unique brand of Thai-inspired gracious hospitality with local customs and traditions, our resort provides unparalleled access to wonder and adventure in a gorgeous location surrounded by breathtaking mountains and valleys. It’s truly a distinctive proposition for travelers, and we look forward to leveraging our unique position and offerings to deliver amazing vacation experiences that help to put the area on the map as a must-visit destination to the benefit of our broader community.”

For more information about the resort and its opening room rates, please visit our website.

About Dusit International

Established in 1948, Dusit International is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Building on its two core areas of business – Hotels & Resorts and Hospitality Education – the company has expanded its operations over the past four years to comprise five business units. The additional units include Foods, Property Development, and Hospitality-Related Services. Today, the company’s property portfolio comprises more than 300 distinctive hotels, resorts and luxury villas operating under six brands across 15 countries worldwide, as well as two leading hospitality colleges with campuses in Thailand and the Philippines. Following a three-pronged strategy for sustainable growth, including balance, expansion and diversification, the company has recently expanded into food production, on-demand hospitality services, and property development to reach new markets and add further recurring streams of revenue to the company.

For more information, please visit our website.

Official photos of Dusit Hotels & Resorts can be downloaded at medialib.dusit.com.

About OMRAN

Oman Tourism Development Company (OMRAN) was established in 2005 by the Government as the executive arm of the Sultanate responsible for delivering the objectives contained in 2040 National Tourism Strategy. OMRAN works closely with the Ministry of Tourism and other governmental entities to identify priorities, projects and opportunities that will maximize the potential of the Sultanate’s tourism sector.

OMRAN creates sustainable and authentic tourism assets, lifestyle communities and destinations that drive economic growth and contribute to the diversification of the economy.

Media Contact:
Sureerat Sudpairak | Director of Marketing Communications | Dusit International
T: +66 (0) 2200 9999 ext. 3321 | M: +66 89 006 8697 | E: sureerat.sp@dusit.com

New Ulaanbaatar International Airport Set to Open in Mongolia

Mitsubishi Corporation (MC), Narita International Airport Corporation (NAA), Japan Airport Terminal Co., Ltd. (JAT), and JALUX Inc. (JALUX) are pleased to announce that the New Ulaanbaatar International Airport (Official name: Chinggis Khaan International Airport) will be officially opened to the public on July 4, 2021.

The new airport will be operated by the partners’ joint venture with the Mongolian government that was established in 2019. Under the terms of its concession agreement with the government, New Ulaanbaatar International Airport LLC (NUBIA) will be in charge of airport operations for the next 15 years.

Location: Tuv Province, Mongolia (about 50 km southwest of Ulaanbaatar City).

Annual Passenger Traffic: 1.61 million passengers (1.2 million for international and 410,000 for domestic routes).

The new airport was originally scheduled to commence operations in 2020, but the opening was delayed because of the COVID-19 pandemic. All assets have now been safely transferred from the old airport (Buyant-Ukhaa International Airport), thereby readying the new airport for flights and passenger traffic.

Although the pandemic has significantly reduced air travel in Mongolia, demand for flights is expected to increase over the medium to long term, particularly in Ulaanbaatar, the country’s capital and center of its political and economic activity. The new airport will likely play an increasingly prominent role over the coming years.

In operating the new airport, NUBIA will be taking advantage of the combined expertise of its four shareholders. MC boasts a strong track record in airports and other infrastructure projects in Japan and around the world, while NAA and JAT operate Narita International Airport and the passenger terminal buildings at Haneda Airport respectively. JALUX is engaged in airport retail businesses and also has experience managing overseas airports. In addition to prioritizing passenger safety, security and comfort, NUBIA plans to leverage the new airport to increase the number of routes and flights servicing Ulaanbaatar, develop attractive in-terminal commercial facilities, and otherwise enhance the new airport’s services and profitability.

While maintaining all precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19, NUBIA is committed to building on a facility that is already being heralded as a symbol of bilateral cooperation between Japan and Mongolia, and in operating the new airport efficiently, the joint venture will do its best to contribute to the sustainable development of Mongolia’s economy and society.

1. Mitsubishi Corporation
A global integrated business enterprise that develops and operates businesses across virtually every industry including natural gas, industrial materials, petroleum & chemicals solution, mineral resources, industrial infrastructure, automotive & mobility, food industry, consumer industry, power solution and urban development.
URL: www.mitsubishicorp.com

2. Narita International Airport Corporation
Establishment and management of Narita International Airport
URL: www.naa.jp

3. Japan Airport Terminal Co., Ltd.
JAT’s main lines of business are Terminal Building Management at Haneda Airport as well as associated Merchandise and Food & Beverage sales.
URL: www.tokyo-airport-bldg.co.jp

4. JALUX Inc.
Aviation & Airport-related business, Life Service Business, Retail Business, Food & Beverage Business
URL: www.jalux.com

5. NUBIA : New Ulaanbaatar International Airport LLC
Operation of New Ulaanbaatar International Airport (Chinggis Khaan International Airport)
Shareholders:
Japan Airport Management LLC: 51.0% (Special Purpose Company funded by MC, NAA, JAT and JALUX)
Khushigiin Khundii Airport Stated Owned LLC: 49.0% (Special Purpose Company funded by Govt of Mongolia)
URL: http://www.nubia.mn

For more information, please visit: https://www.mitsubishicorp.com/jp/en/pr/archive/2021/html/0000047394.html.

Jinjiang Wulin Qiaopi Hall Included in UNESCO’s Memory of the World Register

Jinjiang, China, July 2, 2021 – (ACN Newswire) – With the recent approval of UNESCO Memory of the World Program’s Sub-Committee on Education and Research and the National Archives Administration of China, the Fujian Provincial Archives and Jinjiang Municipal Archives jointly established Jinjiang Wulin Qiaopi Hall as the practice base of the “Memory of the World Program Knowledge Center – Fujian”.

Citizens read Qiaopi at Wulin Qiaopi Hall.

Simulation of Qiaopi Office at the first floor.

It is reported that the MoW Knowledge Center – Fujian is located in the Fujian Provincial Archives, which is responsible for assisting the China National Committee of the Memory of the World Program and the UNESCO Memory of the World Program’s Sub-Committee on Education and Research. It aims at strengthening the research on the value of the Qiaopi archives, developing different forms of archival products and promoting the communication, promotion and utilization of the MoW program across countries, regions, and communities.

Qiaopi, commonly known as “Fanpi” and “Yinxin”, is a collective term for letters and remittances sent home by overseas Chinese through private channels. The name “Qiao (overseas Chinese) Pi” came as the Southern Min dialect pronounces “xin (letter)” as “pi”.

The hall reminds people of how the Qiaopi Office operated during the period of the Republic of China. People can request a letter from an old writer here. Also, they may interpret the stories of overseas Chinese entrepreneurs from the aged Qiaopi and their belongings, and feel their patriotism, love for hometown, and zeal for public welfare.

It is an immersive cultural experience. People can view the development history of Jinjiang as an Overseas Chinese Hometown, and appreciate the overseas Chinese culture of Jinjiang and even Fujian Province.

The base will serve as a demonstration center to promote Qiaopi culture in Fujian Province. It will work with the MoW Knowledge Center – Fujian to build a conservation, research and promotion platform of Qiaopi archival legacies with local characteristics and to add another popular travel destination to inherit and develop the “Jinjiang Experience” of innovation and development.

Contact:
Lisa Wu, lisa_wu916@163.com
http://www.jinjiang.gov.cn/xxgk/gzdt/jjyw/202106/t20210622_2576937.htm