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May 16, 2024

JD.com Recognized in FORTUNE China’s ESG Impact List for Third Consecutive Year

On May 13, FORTUNE China announced its “ China ESG Impact List 2024 ,” marking JD.com’s third consecutive appearance for its exceptional performance in environmental, social, and governance (ESG). FORTUNE commended the listed companies for their significant efforts in enhancing environmental sustainability, supporting their workforce, and contributing to their communities, all while achieving continuous and inclusive growth despite economic cycles. JD.com has consistently demonstrated its dedication and standing as a responsible corporate entity across various critical ESG aspects. Leading Green Supply Chain Initiatives JD.com has been at the forefront of advocating for a sustainable supply chain. For example, it continually enhances its consumer trade-in services. Data from the Beijing Green Exchange shows that from July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, JD.com’s Home Appliances and Household Appliances division reduced carbon emissions by approximately 154,900 tons through recycling eight types of household appliances—equivalent to planting over 20 million trees. JD.com has pioneered innovative models such as “Internet + recycling,” seamlessly integrating online waste delivery with offline recycling. In 2024, JD.com and its partners invested 6.5 billion yuan to expand and upgrade the company’s trade-in service , now covering over 200 categories, providing efficient and convenient one-stop solutions. Empowering Employee Well-being Launched in May 2023, the “JD.com Youth City” project represents one of the largest recent investments in employee welfare, with over 6 billion yuan allocated to provide approximately 4,000 turnkey employee apartments. In promoting inclusive employment for women, JD.com has shown a strong commitment to gender equality, particularly by creating a supportive work environment for working mothers. This initiative garnered recognition from the United Nations Global Compact and inclusion in their report “ Women at Work: Chinese Companies Taking Action on Gender Equality .” Additionally, JD.com was listed in the Bloomberg Gender Equality Index (GEI) for the first time in 2023, making it the only Chinese company in the industry included in the index. Promoting Transparent Corporate Governance JD.com upholds ethical guidelines and fosters a culture of compliance and integrity driven by technology and data. In 2023, JD.com released the “ Report on Analysis of Employee Fraud Cases in Enterprises in the Internet Industry” and the “Guidelines for Evaluating the Maturity Level of Corporate Integrity and Compliance Management,” becoming the first in the industry to publish such guidelines. JD.com also champions the Anti-Corruption Sunshine Integrity Alliance, promoting integrity and compliance across the private sector. JD.com’s ESG initiatives not only reaffirm its commitment to sustainable development but also set a standard for the industry. Moving forward, JD.com will uphold its corporate mission of “Making Lives Better through Technology,” leveraging its advanced supply chain technology and service capabilities to deepen ESG practices and create even greater value for users, partners, and society as a whole. ( vivian.yang@jd.com )

May 16, 2024

Business

Seatrium Awarded Repeat FPSO Integration Contract from SBM Offshore

Seatrium Limited (Seatrium or the Group) is pleased to announce that it has been awarded a contract by Single Buoy Moorings Inc, a SBM Offshore company, for the topsides fabrication and integration of a Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel. Mr Marlin Khiew, Executive Vice President, Oil & Gas (Americas) of Seatrium said, "We are honoured to be able to support SBM Offshore and ExxonMobil Guyana in contributing to the oil and gas industry in Guyana with yet another FPSO for deployment in the Stabroek block. FPSO Jaguar reinforces Seatrium’s standing as the world leader in the conversion and integration of FPSOs, marking our 29th major project for SBM Offshore, a strong affirmation of our client’s confidence in Seatrium as a partner of choice in floating production systems.” Seatrium’s scope of work includes the fabrication of several topsides modules, riser, mooring and umbilical structures, followed by the installation and integration of these structures and all topside modules for the FPSO Jaguar. The Group will also support SBM Offshore with pre-commissioning and commissioning work. The FPSO Jaguar is designed to produce 250,000 barrels of oil per day (bopd) and an associated gas treatment capacity of 540 million cubic feet per day (mmscfd), water injection capacity of 300,000 barrels of water per day (bwpd), and a storage capacity of two million barrels of oil. Work is expected to commence in the third quarter of this year; upon completion, the FPSO will be deployed to serve in the Whiptail Field, Offshore Stabroek Block, Guyana for ExxonMobil Guyana. To date, Seatrium has been involved in delivering three FPSO projects, namely FPSO Liza Destiny, FPSO Liza Unity and FPSO Prosperity, as part of the series of FPSOs bound for the Stabroek block in offshore Guyana. Seatrium is also on track to deliver its fourth Guyanese FPSO project, ONE GUYANA FPSO to SBM. In recent years, Guyana has emerged as the world’s fastest-growing oil region since its first offshore discovery back in 2015. –End – About Seatrium Limited Seatrium Limited provides innovative engineering solutions to the global offshore, marine and energy industries. Headquartered in Singapore, the Group has over 60 years of track record in the design and construction of rigs, floaters, offshore platforms and specialised vessels, as well as in the repair, upgrading and conversion of different ship types. The Group’s key business segments include Oil & Gas Newbuilds and Conversions, Offshore Renewables, Repairs & Upgrades, and New Energies, with a growing focus on sustainable solutions to advance the global energy transition and maritime decarbonisation. As a premier global player offering offshore renewables, new energies and cleaner offshore & marine solutions, Seatrium is committed to delivering high standards of safety, quality and performance to its customers which include major energy companies, vessel owners and operators, shipping companies, and cruise and ferry operators. Seatrium operates shipyards, engineering & technology centres and facilities in Singapore, Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Norway, the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom and the United States. Discover more at www.seatrium.com For more information, please contact: Ms Judy Tan Head, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications Tel No: +65 9710 9784 Email: judy.tan@seatrium.com Ms Clarissa Ho Senior Manager, Investor Relations and Corporate Communications Tel No: +65 9632 1253 Email: shufang.ho@seatrium.com

May 15, 2024

Business

Indorama Ventures drives environmental stewardship at weightlifting’s 2024 IWF World Cup in Phuket

Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited, a global sustainable chemical producer, supported the Thai Amateur Weightlifting Association (TAWA) on Thailand hosting the 2024 IWF World Cup competition in Phuket. This competition was the final qualifying round for athletes aspiring to compete in the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. As a result of their performance at the competition, held at Phuket Rajabhat University, Thailand’s athletes were able to secure four Olympics spots: two for men in the 61 kg and 73 kg categories, and two for women in the 49 kg and above 81 kg categories. The TAWA’s partnership with Indorama Ventures promotes sustainability by enhancing recycling initiatives within Thai weightlifting. The partners promoted proper PET waste management and provided disposal points for post-consumer PET waste at the venue throughout the competition. This aligns with Indorama Ventures’ approach to corporate social responsibility, harnessing the power of education to benefit the community and the environment. Collected PET bottles contributed additional income for the venue operators through recycling. In addition, Indorama Ventures provided 2,000 eco-friendly polo shirts made from Deja™100% recycled PET (rPET) yarn as souvenirs. Each polo shirt, made from twelve 600 ml PET bottles, features a breathable fabric that absorbs moisture efficiently, dries quickly, and is comfortable to wear. These initiatives encourage responsible practices in the weightlifting community and support Indorama Ventures' ambition to educate one million people globally about recycling. Mrs. Suchitra Lohia, Deputy Group CEO and Chairperson of the Corporate Social Responsibility Committee at Indorama Ventures, said, “Our partnership with the Thai Amateur Weightlifting Association is a mutual commitment to sustainability and environmental awareness. We are advancing CSR initiatives that create shared social value through recycling education and waste separation. Through our partnership with TAWA, we provide funding for Thai weightlifting athletes, who have an international reputation for their exceptional performances. We congratulate the four Thai weightlifters who will proudly represent Thailand at the Olympics this year.” Major General Intarat Yodbangtoey, Honorary President of the Thai Amateur Weightlifting Association (TAWA), expressed his gratitude, stating, "The support from Indorama Ventures transcends mere sports backing; it embodies the spirit of sportsmanship and steadfast commitment to sustainability. Their support elevates our sport and sets an exemplary standard for our social and environmental responsibilities." Gallery

May 15, 2024

Business

Axiata Group and Sinar Mas sign non-binding Memorandum of Understanding to mutually explore proposed merger of XL Axiata and Smartfren in Indonesia

Axiata Group Berhad (“ Axiata ” or “ the Group ”) and (a) PT Wahana Inti Nusantara (“ WIN ”); (b) PT Global Nusa Data (“ GND ”); and (c) PT Bali Media Telekomunikasi (“ BMT ”) ((a) to (c) collectively referred to as “ Sinar Mas ”) (Axiata and Sinar Mas collectively referred to as the “ Parties ” and each a “ Party ”) today announced that they have entered into a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (“ MOU ”) to mutually explore a proposed merger of XL Axiata and Smartfren (“ Proposed Transaction ”) to create a new entity (“ MergeCo ”). The Proposed Transaction is at an early stage of evaluation with both Axiata and Sinar Mas intending to remain as joint controlling shareholders of MergeCo. There is no certainty that the ongoing discussions between the Parties will result in the entry into any binding agreement nor the completion of the Proposed Transaction. Validation of merger rationale and value creation to shareholders, due diligence, preparation of a joint business plan and agreement on key terms will be the principal activities carried out during the exploratory phase governed by the non-binding MOU. Any key development in relation to this MOU will be announced as required. In the event a binding agreement is to be entered into at a future point in time, the associated transaction will be subject to among others, regulatory and corporate approvals. With the intent to create a stronger telecommunications service provider in Indonesia, the proposed merger of XL Axiata and Smartfren is expected to bring together the combined scale, competencies, finances and deep telecommunication expertise of Axiata and the local scale and market knowledge of Sinar Mas to generate significant value. Both principals are expected to wield an equitable influence over the strategic direction and operational decisions of MergeCo, bolstered by their respective strengths. Axiata believes that MergeCo will have the strategic agility, competence and scale to meet increasing expectations and demand from consumers, businesses and the Indonesian public sector. MergeCo is expected to deliver superior customer experience in the telecommunications sector and create additional shareholder value including through synergies from the combined operations of XL Axiata and Smartfren. Axiata is committed to remaining a leading player in Indonesia's digital and technology landscape, rooted in its long-term vision of supporting the country's digital future. Indonesia is an important market and key to its strategic initiatives. XL Axiata is Axiata’s largest asset and from a portfolio standpoint, Indonesia is the highest value creator, where it runs five main businesses - XL Axiata, Link Net, EDOTCO, Boost and ADA. -END- About Axiata In pursuit of its vision to be The Next Generation Digital Champion, Axiata is a diversified telecommunications and digital conglomerate operating Digital Telcos, Digital Businesses and Infrastructure businesses across a footprint spanning ASEAN and South Asia. The Group has controlling stakes in market-leading mobile and fixed operators in the region including 'XL Axiata’ and ‘Link Net' in Indonesia, 'Dialog' in Sri Lanka, 'Robi' in Bangladesh, and 'Smart' in Cambodia while 'CelcomDigi' in Malaysia is a Key Associate Company. Axiata’s regional digital business verticals comprise ‘Boost’ a fintech company, and ‘ADA’, a digital analytics and AI company. 'EDOTCO' is among the top 10 independent TowerCos globally, operating in nine countries to deliver telecommunications infrastructure services. As a committed and long-term investor, the Group actively supports and drives young talent development; community outreach; as well as climate change initiatives. Axiata's broader goal of Advancing Asia aims to piece together the best in the region in terms of innovation, connectivity and talent to drive digital inclusion and sustainable progress across our markets. Find out more at www.axiata.com Issued By: Corporate Communications Axiata Group Berhad Axiata Corporate Headquarters, Axiata Tower, 9 Jalan Stesen Sentral 5, Kuala Lumpur Sentral 50470 Kuala Lumpur For further information on Axiata visit www.axiata.com For media enquiries, please contact: Sujartha Kumar Corporate Communications Tel: +6011.10.000.177 Email: sujartha@axiata.com

May 14, 2024

Business

AWC Announces Record-High Growth in Q1/2024, Expanding Quality Asset Portfolio to Meet Growing Demand in Tourism Sector, with the Hospitality EBITDA Increasing by 83% Compared to Pre-COVID Period

Mrs. Wallapa Traisorat, Chief Executive Officer and President, Asset World Corp Public Company Limited or AWC , today announced record-breaking operating results for Q1/2024 with significant growth from the strategy to expand the portfolio of quality assets, especially new operating assets in the Hospitality Business Unit that records the highest growth compared to 2019. HOTEL EBITDA (excluding Fair Value) peaked at THB 1,401 million, an 83% growth compared to the same period of 2019, surpassing pre-COVID levels, and 43% growth quarter-on-quarter. The Hospitality Business Unit continues to thrive, generating an Average Daily Rate (ADR) of THB 6,298 and Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) of THB 4,711. Moreover, advance bookings grew to 753,841 nights, the highest level since 2019. Net profit for the quarter was THB 1,604 million, representing an 18.1% increase quarter-on-quarter while total revenue was THB 5,440 million, a 10.3% increase quarter-on-quarter. Business Unit EBITDA (BU EBITDA) climbed to THB 2,020 million, a 38% growth compared to the same period of 2019. AWC continued to implement its GROWTH-LED Strategy, generating total asset value growth of over 80% compared to pre-COVID levels. The company also emphasizes on developing Retail Destination and implementing the ‘Co-Living Collective: Empower Future’ experience for Commercial Business Unit, as well as the transition of its assets from Ramp Up stage to Business As Usual (BAU) stage through global partnerships which contribute to increasing access to customer base from 400 million to 600 million people worldwide. Meanwhile, freehold asset is valued at 94%, driving strong cash flow growth to deliver sustainable value to shareholders and stakeholders alike. In Q1/2024, AWC’s fixed assets totaled THB 149,550 million in value. Operating assets accounted for THB 109,526 million of the total amount. New High Quarterly Performance In Q1/2024, the Hospitality Business Unit delivered an impressive performance with the revenue proportion growing to 61%. The outstanding operating results were driven by the expanding Thai tourism sector, which attracted more high-to-luxury tourists, a key target group for AWC. These tourists have supported the growth of all AWC’s hotels especially luxury resorts, Bangkok-based hotels, and other properties outside the capital, contributing to the highest RevPAR and ADR numbers. The occupancy rate in Q1/2024 was 74.8% while HOTEL EBITDA MARGIN stood at 42.1%, up by 7.5% from the previous quarter and higher than the 2019 rate. Thanks to impressive and efficient cost management, the flow-through of the Hospitality Business Unit’s EBITDA was 60% year-on-year. On the Revenue Generation Index (RGI), many of AWC’s hotels outperformed competitors in the same category and area. For example, Courtyard by Marriott Phuket Town’s RGI was 194, Bangkok Marriott Hotel The Surawongse’s RGI was 175, and Le Méridien Bangkok’s RGI was 146. AWC is determined to continuously develop, renovate, and enhance its quality properties. To increase the value of its operating assets, the company has also launched leading restaurants and cafes in both Bangkok and Chiang Mai including “Hong’s Chinese Restaurant & Sky Bar”, the first upscale rooftop Chinese restaurant in Chiang Mai at InterContinental Chiang Mai The Mae Ping, and “Cafe de Petal”, a European-inspired café at Athenee Tower. Additionally, AWC has also introduced “Pikul” application to ensure customers easy access to hotel, dining, and lifestyle services from AWC and leading partners in the tourism industry. In Q1/2024, AWC boasted 22 hotels with over 6,029 rooms and more than 80 restaurant outlets within hotels and various popular tourist destinations across Thailand. For the Retail Business Unit, AWC has formulated a strategy to respond to its target groups’ changing lifestyles and needs. The Commercial Business Unit, meanwhile, successfully, and solidly maintained its revenue level, thanks to its Grade A office buildings, which are well-equipped to support hybrid work trend. Moreover, AWC is preparing to launch “Phenix” – a ‘World’s Food Wholesale Hub with Largest Food Lounge in Pratunam’. Scheduled for an official launch on 26 June 2024, Phenix will deliver seamless services both online and offline through collaborations with various world-class partners. Additionally, AWC will soon unveil “EA Rooftop at The Empire”. The project encompasses EA Gallery, featuring leading international-cuisine eateries with breathtaking views of Bangkok, EA CHEF'S TABLE, presenting three restaurants by Michelin-starred chefs, and Nobu Bangkok, which is not only Thailand's first Nobu outlet but also the world's largest and highest Nobu restaurant. Situated at “The Empire,” an ultimate Grade A office building in the heart of Sathorn, “EA Rooftop at The Empire” promises to establish Bangkok as a global destination of largest rooftop dining experience. GROWTH-LED Strategy Empowers a Long-Term Portfolio AWC has continued to implement its GROWTH-LED Strategy in pursuit of EBITDA growth. Under this strategy, the company’s unique business model has quickly bolstered the potential of Ramp Up and repositioning of assets which totaled THB 88,339 million in Q1/2024, strengthening them to ‘Business As Usual’ (BAU) stage. Furthermore, AWC has been rigorously turning its developing assets worth over THB 40,024 million into operating assets. The five-year strategy will require an investment budget of more than THB 126,000 million. AWC has a robust debt capacity and Growth Fund Model that will enhance its quality portfolio and value in the long run. In 2024, AWC plans to develop “Lannatique” as a quality property project that will establish a world-class art, cultural and lifestyle tourism destination in the heart of Chiang Mai. AWC has also invested further in the strategic Chang Klan area to develop a luxury hotel and Chiang Mai’s first in-hotel water park. “AWC firmly believes in the value of exceptional Thai arts and culture, including the cherished Lanna arts with their longstanding significance. Our shareholders have endorsed investments in ‘Chiang Mai Night Bazaar’, ‘Kalare Night Bazaar’, and ‘The Plaza Chiangmai’ projects, which are integral to 'Lannatique’. This expansive endeavor will commence the opening of its first phase by the end of 2024, followed by subsequent phases scheduled to be completed within 5 years. It aims to foster the growth of the real estate and tourism industries, promote job creation, and stimulate the local economy to strengthen Chiang Mai's position as a world-class sustainable tourism destination. Apart from development in Chiang Mai, which has a total investment exceeding THB 11,950 million, AWC plans to further invest in two additional high-quality real estate projects located in prime areas of Bangkok. The OP Garden project is situated in the Bang Rak area, strategically connected to the flagship project, The Plaza Athenee Nobu Hotel and Spa Bangkok, along the Chao Phraya Riverbank to promote waterfront tourism destinations. Operations for this venture are expected to commence around the fourth quarter of 2027. Furthermore, there are hotel projects focusing on wellness planned for the Sukhumvit 38 area, with operations anticipated to commence around the third quarter of 2028. These developments are aligned with the commitment to support Thailand as a sustainable global tourism destination,” Mrs. Wallapa added. In Q1/2024, AWC also achieved remarkable success in sustainability, supporting Thai tourism on the global stage by achieving the highest scorer in the Hotels, Resorts & Cruise Lines industry, ranking among the Top 1% (Gold Class) on S&P Global rankings. AWC, moreover, successfully entered S&P Global’s The Sustainability Yearbook 2024. On top of these achievements, AWC has partnered with and secured long-term sustainability linked loans from leading financial institutions. AWC has successfully increased the proportion of sustainability linked loans to 100 percent. These milestones are a testament to AWC’s commitment to its “Building a Better Future” philosophy and solid efforts to establish Thailand as a global sustainable tourist destination.

May 14, 2024

Food & Beverage

Ampol Foodary Launches New Coffee Loyalty Program and Heated Food Range

Ampol Foodary has introduced a new loyalty program that rewards customers for enjoying Foodary coffee. Under the new program, customers who buy four coffees and/or hot beverages* will be able to redeem their fifth coffee or hot beverage of regular size for free. The new loyalty cards are available in-store at participating Ampol Foodary locations. Jenny O'Regan, Chief Brand Officer, Ampol, said: "Our customers love the coffee at our Ampol Foodary stores, and we want to reward them for their loyalty. “Our customers have such a strong affinity for Foodary coffee as bold, full of flavour, and setting a positive tone for the rest of their day. “We are confident that this passion for Foodary coffee from our customers will continue with this new loyalty program.” The new coffee loyalty program is available now and can be redeemed at all Ampol Foodary stores nationwide where barista or push-button machine coffee is available. In addition, Ampol Foodary is adding new delicious private label products to its heated food range across 54 stores, including the Foodary Lasagna Toppa and Foodary Cheese Potato Bites. The Foodary Lasagna Toppa is made with New Zealand beef mince, cooked in a rich Bolognese sauce, and topped with pasta and cheese. The entire creation is then encased in a golden crumb. It will retail for $4.50. The Foodary Cheese Potato Bites are croquette-like snacks that come in eight pieces, and will retail for $5.00. “The Foodary Lasagna Toppa and the Foodary Cheese Potato Bites are oven-baked and ready to be enjoyed while on the go,” Jenny said. “Our merchandise team have developed the new delicious heated food range, which we are sure our customers will love.” The Foodary Lasagna Toppa and Foodary Cheese Potato Bites will be available from participating Ampol Foodary stores from early June. Media contact: media@ampol.com.au

May 14, 2024

Business

Ampol Best All Rounder Program Returns for 2024

Ampol has announced the return of its Best All Rounder program for 2024, celebrating the remarkable contributions of final-year students to their schools and local communities. Now in its 39th year, the Ampol Best All Rounder program invites secondary schools across Australia to register and nominate exceptional Year 12 students who embody the program's core values, including: Leadership Service and community engagement Excellence in sports Contributions to arts and culture Positive attitude, and Exemplary personal conduct. The program continues its tradition of recognising overall excellence by awarding the selected Ampol Best All Rounder National winner with a $5,000 cash grant and $1,000 in AmpolCash. Additionally, the nominating school will receive a $5,000 cash grant to enhance educational resources and technology. Led by the Ampol Foundation, dedicated to fostering education, employment, and community engagement among Australian youth, the Ampol Best All Rounder program stands as a testament to Ampol’s commitment to shaping a brighter future for generations to come. Since the program began in 1985, the program has empowered more than 30,000 young Australians, and helped them along in their journey to becoming future leaders in their chosen fields. Ampol Executive General Manager, People and Culture, Meaghan Davis, said: “For almost 40 years, the Ampol Best All Rounder award has celebrated Australia's leaders of tomorrow by recognising final year students who have made outstanding contributions to both their school and local community. “At Ampol, we believe that recognising the all-round contribution of final year students is an important part of developing well-rounded graduates and continue flourishing in whatever they want to pursue.” Registrations for the Ampol Best All Rounder award program are now open with State and National nominations to open later in the year. Registrations close on 24 September. Schools interested in participating can visit Ampol Best All Rounder Award 2024 to learn more and register. Media contact: media@ampol.com.au

May 14, 2024

Business

Commentary on Tender Closing at Holland Drive

Caution prevailed at the URA tender closing today (14 May 2024) for the residential site at Holland Drive (680 units) which saw muted participation from developers and bid prices below expectations. The measured number of bids reflects continued risk aversion and selectiveness among developers especially for prime sites and bigger sites which require larger capital outlay, in light of economic headwinds, interest rate uncertainty and cooling measures. Developer sales also slumped to a 15-year low of 6,421 units in 2023 and have remained tepid in Q1 2024 despite more launches amid negative newsflows from a slew of company layoffs and interest rate uncertainty. Holland Drive The plot at Holland Drive drew 3 bids within expectations but a top bid price of $805.39 mil or $1,285 psf ppr below expectations submitted by a consortium between UOL Group, CapitaLand, and Kheng Leong. Similar to recent state land tenders, interest in today’s tender remained muted as developers continue to exercise caution amid economic weakness, tighter financing conditions, and elevated inflation. While developers could leverage the site’s good size of 680 units to reap economies of scale from more facilities, its larger size also comes with higher developmental risks. This is especially since this site falls just outside the 1 km radius of the popular Henry Park Primary School, and thus may appeal less to locals and young families. Its prime location would also appeal more to foreigner buyers and investors which have been greatly deterred by the increased ABSD under Apr 2023’s round of cooling measures. The unit price of $1,285 psf ppr is 32% below the neighbouring One Holland Village site which drew 15 bids from 10 consortiums during the closing of its tender on 20 Mar 2018 and was eventually awarded via Concept-and-Price Tender on 16 May 2018 for $1.213bn or $1,888 psf ppr. Even though the land rate was below expectations, we think that the proposed development has the potential to achieve an average selling price starting from $2,800 psf. This optimism stems from the site’s prime location and proximity to Holland Village MRT and the mixed-used development at One Holland Village which is shaping up as a bustling lifestyle hub offering abundant amenities. Notably, the remaining 63 units at One Holland Village Residences were transacted at a median price of $2,881 psf in 2023, highlighting the strong demand of the area. Furthermore, with One Holland Village Residences fully sold, buyers have fewer choices in the immediate area with limited new 99-year leasehold supply around it. About CBRE Group, Inc. CBRE Group, Inc. (NYSE:CBRE), a Fortune 500 and S&P 500 company headquartered in Dallas, is the world’s largest commercial real estate services and investment firm (based on 2023 revenue). The company has more than 130,000 employees (including Turner & Townsend employees) serving clients in more than 100 countries. CBRE serves a diverse range of clients with an integrated suite of services, including facilities, transaction and project management; property management; investment management; appraisal and valuation; property leasing; strategic consulting; property sales; mortgage services and development services. Please visit our website at www.cbre.com .

May 14, 2024

Business

Indorama Ventures achieves ‘AA’ rating from MSCI for its ESG journey

Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited, a global sustainable chemical company, announced that MSCI awarded the company an upgraded ‘AA’ from ‘A’ rating, ranking it in the ‘Leader’ category for its Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance towards achieving its ongoing sustainability goals and commitments. Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI), a leading provider of research-driven indices and analytics, ranked Indorama Ventures among the top 12% of 57 global companies in the commodity chemicals sector. This upgraded rating illustrates Indorama Ventures’ performance to exceed industry peers while minimizing its environmental footprint. Yash Lohia, Chairman of the ESG Council at Indorama Ventures, said: “We are immensely proud of our upgrade to an 'AA' MSCI ESG rating, which not only highlights our dedication to sustainable operational excellence but also aligns with our purpose of reimagining chemistry together to create a better world. This recognition is a testament to our unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, ethical governance, and social responsibility.” The MSCI ESG Ratings play a pivotal role in guiding investor decisions and offer insights into how well companies address key long-term ESG risks and opportunities compared to their industry peers. These ratings range from AAA (highest) to CCC (lowest), providing a transparent, data-driven benchmark that helps guide investment decisions based on sustainability criteria.

May 13, 2024

Others

Progress Report on Field Testing of Collecting Plastic Containers for Personal and Home Care Products Using a Local Government Collection Route

From April 2023 to March 2024, Kao Corporation worked with general recycling business Nakadai Co. Ltd. to conduct field testing for recycling plastic packaging used for personal and home care products in the Japanese city of Satsumasendai, Kagoshima Prefecture. The one-year program, targeting approximately 1,300 households in the city, collected the packaging using the city’s existing recycling route. Recycling of PET plastic beverage bottles via local government routes for recyclables is already well established, but this field-testing scheme for personal and home care product plastic containers is the first of its kind* . Several similar programs now in effect aim to find answers to the issues experienced in field testing of obtaining sufficient quantities of materials to recycle and reducing the cost of collection to set up a sustainable collection system. Field testing in Satsumasendai is being conducted as part of the Circular Park Kyushu project for a sustainable future and has been incorporated into the city’s SDGs Innovation Trial Support Project. Results of field testing and prospects for the future are described below. *According to Kao data as of April 2023. News Release from April 2023 Field Testing of a New Collection Scheme in Japan Using Local Government Collection Route to Achieve Horizontal Recycling of Plastic Containers for Personal and Home Care Products Used plastic containers left in a collection box (left) are stored at a city-owned collection point (right), from where Nakadai collects them once a week for quantity and quality analysis Description of the Field Testing Satsumasendai City currently collects recyclables (washed and dried plastic containers for personal and home care products, food packaging and colored food trays) once or twice a month. To facilitate participation, all plastic packaging for personal and home care products, with the exception of tubes, is collected and can be left at local collection points where consumers already drop off other recyclables. Items Evaluated and Results Obtained Ensuring a stable, sufficient supply of containers as a source of materials A total of 715kg of plastic containers was collected from 1,300 households. Ensuring quality of recyclables for re-use Only 3% of the total packaging collected was deemed ineligible, and around 90% was high-quality material that had been washed and dried. It is expected that 98% of the material collected will be of acceptable quality suitable for recycling. Reducing collection costs to make the scheme sustainable This field-testing scheme has been incorporated into Satsumasendai City’s SDGs Innovation Trial Support Project, which is providing support in the form of coordination with personnel and making available more collection points. Collection costs are shouldered by Kao and Nakadai. Participants’ Comments To identify issues with the collection scheme during the field-testing period and gain insights into what could increase motivation to take part, participants were asked to reply to a questionnaire. While respondents agreed that the scheme was valuable in terms of reducing the burden on the environment and making good use of resources, many of them found the requirement to sort, wash, dry and take used packaging to a collection point burdensome. In particular, since the packaging was only collected once every two weeks, respondents brought up the issue of needing to store the containers at home until collection time or felt that it was more convenient to be able to drop them off at supermarkets, etc. any time, pointing to the need for improvement in this area. Looking to the Future With these field-testing results in mind, Kao and Circular Park Kyushu, working together with Satsumasendai City, will implement a new scheme for one year, from April 2024 to March 2025, reflecting the insights gained from the questionnaire. Under the new scheme, the plan is to use supermarkets in Satsumasendai as collection points for used packaging. Analysis work and other tasks, conducted so far by Nakadai, will be taken over by Circular Park Kyushu in conjunction with the start of operations by Circular Park Kyushu Co., Ltd. in Satsumasendai. Collection frequency, previously twice a month, will be greatly expanded, which is expected to increase the volume of used containers collected. Collection costs within the scheme as a whole will continue to be studied by the parties involved. In April 2019, the Kao Group established the Kirei Lifestyle Plan, an ESG strategy. Since 2021, the Kao Group has been promoting the Kao Group Mid-term Plan with its vision of “protecting future lives” and “sustainability as the only path.” This field testing for collecting plastic containers addresses one of the Kirei Lifestyle Plan’s leadership actions of achieving “zero waste.” Through this field testing, Kao will continue to examine recycling schemes to expand self-directed participation by stakeholders in each step of the recycling process, from sorting and collection to transport and recycling. The company aims to gain the understanding and support of consumers in particular as active participants in resource circularity, from product selection and use to sorting, collection and recycling of packaging. The Kao Group will continue to integrate its ESG strategy into its management practices, develop its business, provide better products and services for consumers and society, and work toward its purpose, “to realize a Kirei world in which all life lives in harmony.” *This news release is a translation of a Japanese-language news release dated April 11, 2024. About the Kirei Lifestyle Plan Over the past 130 years, Kao has worked to improve people’s lives and help them realize more sustainable lifestyles—a Kirei Lifestyle. The Japanese word ‘kirei’ describes something that is clean, well-ordered and beautiful, all at the same time. The Kao Group established its ESG strategy, the Kirei Lifestyle Plan in April 2019, which is designed to deliver the vision of a gentler and more sustainable way of living. By 2030, Kao aims to empower at least 1 billion people, to enjoy more beautiful lives and have 100% of its products leave a full lifecycle environmental footprint that science says our natural world can safely absorb. Please visit the Kao sustainability website for more information. About Kao Kao creates high-value-added products and services that provide care and enrichment for the life of all people and the planet. Through its portfolio of over 20 leading brands such as Attack , Bioré , Goldwell , Jergens , John Frieda , Kanebo , Laurier , Merries, and Molton Brown , Kao is part of the everyday lives of people in Asia, Oceania, North America, and Europe. Combined with its chemical business, which contributes to a wide range of industries, Kao generates about 1,530 billion yen in annual sales. Kao employs about 34,300 people worldwide and has 137 years of history in innovation. Please visit the Kao Group website for updated information. Media inquiries should be directed to: Public Relations Kao Corporation corporate_pr@kao.com

May 13, 2024

Sports

Seven welcomes the newest David Leckie Seven Scholarship Program winner

Seven West Media is pleased to announce and welcome the third recipient of the annual David Leckie Seven Scholarship Program: Alessandro Rosini. A recent graduate of Melbourne’s Swinburne University of Technology, where he completed a bachelor’s degree in media and communications (majoring in journalism), Alessandro joins Seven West Media today and will initially work in the Sydney digital division. He follows in the footsteps of previous scholarship recipients Madeline McKeown and Nuwan Ranasinghe. The David Leckie Seven Scholarship Program was set up in late 2012 to honour the career and legacy of the late David Leckie, former Seven West Media Chief Executive Officer. The program offers a 12-month role at Seven West Media for a graduate with a passion for sales, programming or news. It was set up in partnership with Skye Leckie and David and Skye’s sons, Harry and Ben. The selection process is overseen each year by Skye, Harry and Ben Leckie and senior Seven West Media executives. Skye, Harry and Ben Leckie said: “We are greatly honoured that Kerry Stokes and Seven provide this wonderful program for a young person. “Alessandro is an outstanding individual and we are so thrilled for him to have this extraordinary opportunity. It’s a chance for him to be able to fulfill his dream and be immersed in the ever-changing media world. “David had many loves during his years in media, but TV was his #1. We are thrilled that his legacy can continue and allow others to have the experience of working in TV. Thank you to Jeff and the team at Seven for yet again finding such impressive candidates for this great scholarship program,” they said. Seven West Media Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, Jeff Howard, said: “Alessandro was an outstanding candidate and is a really deserving recipient of this year’s scholarship. He is passionate about the media business, highly motivated and very keen to learn. “David was a legendary leader at Seven and in the media industry, and his legacy lives on in the many people in our business he mentored, the content and strategies he championed, and the passion for media he instilled in everyone he met. It also lives on in this scholarship program, which is both a tribute to David and a great way for Seven to support and develop new recruits. “It’s great to welcome Alessandro to Seven today and along with Skye, the Leckie family and the entire Seven team, I wish him every success,” he said. For more information, please contact: Neil Shoebridge M: 0417 511 012 E: neil@skmediagroup.com.au Andrew Knowles M: 0449 510 357 E: andrew@skmediagroup.com.au About Seven West Media Seven West Media (ASX: SWM) is one of Australia’s most prominent media companies, reaching more than 19 million people a month with a market-leading presence in content production across broadcast television, publishing and digital. The company owns some of Australia’s most renowned media businesses, including the Seven Network and its affiliate channels 7two, 7mate, 7flix and 7Bravo; the digital platform 7plus; 7NEWS.com.au ; The West Australian; The Sunday Times ; and The Nightly . The Seven Network is home to Australia’s most loved news, sport and entertainment programming, including 7NEWS, 7NEWS Spotlight, Sunrise, The Morning Show, The Voice, Home and Away, Australian Idol, My Kitchen Rules, SAS Australia, Farmer Wants A Wife, The Chase Australia, Better Homes and Gardens, RFDS, The 1% Club and the TV WEEK Logie Awards . Seven Network is also the broadcast partner of the AFL, Cricket Australia and Supercars.

May 13, 2024

Business

Traveloka strengthens sustainability pledge as world’s first Platinum Sponsor of GSTC

Traveloka, Southeast Asia’s leading travel platform, today announced its support to the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) to become its first-ever Platinum Sponsor. This historic sponsorship is a tangible demonstration of Traveloka’s commitment to elevating the sustainability standards of the travel and hospitality industry worldwide. As a Platinum Sponsor, Traveloka will partner closely with GSTC to fulfill tourism’s potential as a vehicle for social, cultural, and economic good. Traveloka will also provide essential support to GSTC when it hosts its annual global conference in Singapore this November for the first time. “As Traveloka strives to connect more Southeast Asian travelers with global tourism destinations, we are solidifying our commitment to responsibly managing the sustainability impact of our business and travelers who use our platform,” said Caesar Indra, President of Traveloka . “By becoming GSTC’s first-ever Platinum Sponsor, we are strengthening our pledge to foster a more responsible global tourism industry so that future generations can continue to experience the joys and pleasures of travel.” Traveloka first joined GSTC in 2022, where it pledged to foster a more sustainable and responsible global tourism ecosystem. Since becoming a member, Traveloka has led by example and driven multiple regional initiatives, such as sponsoring sustainable tourism courses for hotels and government agencies across Southeast Asia. Traveloka also introduced features to enable users to identify and book hotels with sustainability certifications aligned with GSTC standards. Randy Durband, CEO of Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) , said, “We warmly welcome Traveloka as a Platinum Sponsor. GSTC is a mission-driven non-profit organization, and this sponsorship will be a significant boost in our work to build a more sustainable and responsible global travel industry. Over the past two years, Traveloka has put their words into action by leading many sustainability initiatives that have resulted in positive impact across Southeast Asia. We look forward to working closely with Traveloka to push the industry’s sustainability agenda to greater heights.”

Traveloka strengthens sustainability pledge as world’s first Platinum Sponsor of GSTC

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