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  • ASEAN Manufacturing’s Digital Transformation Takes Center Stage at Conclusion of Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur 2024

    ASEAN Manufacturing’s Digital Transformation Takes Center Stage at Conclusion of Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur 2024

    Key figures from Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur 2024:

    • 2,189 visits
    • 330 conference attendees
    • 27 speakers from 10 countries and regions (Brazil, China, Greece, Malaysia, Mexico, the Netherlands, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan and the UK)
    • 25 conference sessions and 16 Tech Lab sessions
    • 21 product showcases from 9 countries and regions (Germany, India, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, South Africa, Switzerland, Taiwan and the US)

    Ms Fiona Chiew, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd commented on the event’s impact: “We are pleased to see the ASEAN manufacturing community come together once again at Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur 2024. The positive feedback we are receiving from companies at different stages of digital maturity confirms that the event is successfully addressing the region’s growing need for practical guidance on digital transformation. We are committed to further developing this platform to ensure it remains a valuable resource for professional growth and industrial enhancement in the region.”

    Held at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC) in Malaysia, the event employed a variety of formats to engage participants. Central to the programme was a two-day conference, accompanied by Tech Lab sessions and product showcases.

    At the conference, speakers presented in-depth yet approachable insights on AI, digital twins, ESG implementation and other relevant smart manufacturing topics. Dr Chua Wen-Shyan, Head of Malaysian Smart Factory at SHRDC, the conference co-organiser, explained: “Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur’s conference brings in technology experts to share global trends and perspectives. We have topics ranging from how smart factories are created internationally to where the Malaysian industry is today in comparison to global benchmarks. We want to make it relatable for Malaysian industries, to show that it is not a far-off journey, but something they can start today.”

    Alongside the main conference, attendees could attend Tech Lab sessions and join the product showcase area. These components provided further expert-led discussions and practical demonstrations of the technologies and concepts presented in the conference sessions.

    Feedback from speakers:
    “This is my second time speaking at Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur. At the first edition, the vision was set to establish it as the region’s definitive smart manufacturing event. This year, the programme is focused on pairing digitalisation with sustainability, a particularly important topic, as both market demand and regulations are pushing companies toward these twin transformations.”
    Prof Dr David Romero, Scientific Vice-Chairman, World Manufacturing Foundation and Professor of Advanced Manufacturing, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Mexico

     “Digitalisation is a broad concept that companies often find challenging to navigate. Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur does a great job of raising awareness and helping participants understand how digitalisation applies to their specific business contexts. Importantly, the event brings together people from the private sector, public institutions, government and research institutes, encouraging the kind of collaboration needed to bring forward digitalisation regionally.”
    Mr Zeger-Jan van de Weg, CEO, Flowfuse

     “As a first-time speaker at Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur, I am impressed by the event’s emphasis on Industry 4.0, highlighting efforts from both government and private organisations. There is an excellent mix of international and local content, which allows companies to benchmark themselves globally. The setup and delegate quality are exceptional. It has been a massive success, and we’ll be back next year.”
    Dr Bala Amavasai, Chief Technology Officer – Industry, Celebal Technologies

     “At the conference, I was able to reach over 200 participants at once, something that would take a year going factory to factory. The audience was highly engaged, asking great questions. Then, we could reinforce these ideas at our booth. People could come and say ‘You say this works, but how?’, and we could show them right there. It has been a productive event for us. We’ve had a continuous stream of visitors, and we look forward to participating again next year.”
    Mr Sakthivel Narayanasamy, Chairman, Quantum Computing

    “At Synergies, we have seen a shift in the global supply chain from China to Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia and Vietnam. Our partner, FSBM, recommended Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur because it brings together a mix of government policy leaders, technology providers and customers. It is very unique, having so many different industry stakeholders at one conference. The audience was highly engaged, and we saw a lot of international faces in the audience.”
    Dr Michael Chang, Chief Executive Officer, Synergies Intelligent Systems

    Feedback from product showcase contributors:

    “For MPDV, our decision to attend Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur was driven by last year’s strong audience turnout. The event’s format is very effective. The conference encourages active participation and learning, while the product showcases provide a deeper understanding of the practical aspects. This setup attracts delegates with very specific needs and objectives, and through this focus, I think that it is well-positioned to advance the manufacturing sector in the region.”
    Mr Kyle Ong, Sales Manager, MPDV Malaysia Sdn Bhd

     “Today, we have met with many of our target clients – end users from the manufacturing sector seeking practical solutions. They are coming with clear objectives and showing strong interest in our offerings. While we are open to immediate business, our main focus is on finding quality leads and getting a feel for the industry’s direction. It’s a platform that allows everyone in the industry to participate, to share their pain points and requirements.”
    Mr Pang Kiew Kun, Managing Director, FSBM MES Elite Sdn Bhd

    “We are seeing a lot of C-level executives here, which is something that is uncommon at other events. These visitors can make decisions for their companies – exactly our target audience. The Tech Lab is a great addition as well, as it gives us a chance to share our knowledge and showcase our factory monitoring and ESG solutions. We’re seeing more people engage with the Tech Labs as the event progresses.”
    Mr Zulfadli Saifun, Key Account Sales, Advantech Co Malaysia Sdn Bhd

    Feedback from conference delegates and visitors:

    “As a data analysis vendor, I came to this event looking for MES systems for my client. The sessions have been really helpful, especially the one on work order planning. It’s given me a lot of ideas and insights to share with my clients. After attending for two days, I have a better understanding of what the industry is currently working on. I’ll likely join the next edition as well.”
    Ms Euriss Sow Poh Ling, Senior Technical Manager, ATG-Nexus Sdn Bhd

    “I was particularly impressed by the presentations from FSBM and the sessions on Arduino and Raspberry Pi. In academia, we tend to concentrate on textbooks and theory, so the practical exposure offered at this event has been very beneficial. This year, I’ve noticed that the programme includes a greater emphasis on AI, with interactive presentations and case studies that made the sessions more engaging.”
    Dr Ho Kok Hoe, Senior Lecturer, School of Engineering, Monash University Malaysia

     “The Tech Lab sessions introduced me to manufacturing concepts beyond my usual software development sphere. The speakers were highly experienced in their fields and were adept at explaining complex topics. I’ve gained a broader perspective on current trends in the industry, and look forward to implementing some of these ideas in my role.”
    Mr Kam Wah Lee, Principal Engineer, Western Digital

    The next edition of Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur will be held from 7 – 9 May 2025.

    Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd. The conference session is co-organised with the Selangor Human Resources Development Centre (SHRDC). The event is supported by a number of prominent organisations and industry associations, including:

    • Communication 21 Media Group Sdn Bhd
    • International Alliance of Robotics Associations (IARA)
    • Machinery and Engineering Industries Federation (MEIF)
    • Malaysian Industrial Development Finance Berhad (MIDF)
    • Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC)
    • Malaysia Robotics & Automation Society (MyRAS)
    • Malaysian Rubber Products Manufacturer’s Association (MRPMA)
    • Malaysian Timber Council (MTC)
    • The National ESG Association of Malaysia
    • TusStar Malaysia
    • Smart4wrd
  • KPF melaksanakan pelan penstrukturan semula aset bernilai RM4 bilion

    KPF melaksanakan pelan penstrukturan semula aset bernilai RM4 bilion

    KPF Komited Selesaikan Isu Jualan Saham Dalam Masa Enam Hingga Sembilan Bulan

    Koperasi Permodalan FELDA Malaysia Berhad (KPF) komited menyelesaikan isu jualan saham anggotanya dalam masa enam hingga sembilan bulan, seperti yang diumumkan oleh Pengerusi FELDA, Dato’ Sri Ahmad Shabery Cheek, dalam Mesyuarat Agung Perwakilan Tahunan (MAPT) Ke-43 KPF.

    KPF menyedari masih terdapat tunggakan bayaran saham bernilai RM200 juta kepada anggotanya. Sejak 10 Julai 2024, KPF telah mula membuat pembayaran sebanyak RM20 juta bagi permohonan yang diutamakan seperti permohonan haji, sakit kritikal, tuntutan kritikal, masalah kewangan, dan khairat kematian. Pembayaran selebihnya akan dibuat secara berkala mengikut sistem penggiliran dan ketersediaan tunai.

    Bagi memastikan kelangsungan KPF dan memenuhi keperluan tuna semasa, KPF sedang dan akan melaksanakan pelan penstrukturan semula aset bernilai RM4 billion. Pelan ini merangkumi beberapa inisiatif dan strategi, antaranya:

    • Mengenal pasti dan mencairkan aset yang tidak menjana pulangan yang sepatutnya.
    • Menjual ladang KPF Samarahan.
    • Menstruktur semula pelaburan korporat dalam anak syarikat kumpulan Felda dengan sokongan FELDA.
    • Mengenal pasti peranan KPF dan peluang perniagaan dalam Kumpulan FELDA.
    • Memastikan kepentingan KPF dalam kitaran ekonomi ekosistem Kumpulan FELDA.

    Melalui pelan ini, KPF menjangkakan untuk mencapai beberapa sasaran, termasuk:

    • Menyelesaikan isu aliran tunai.
    • Mengurus urusniaga syer anggota selari dengan peraturan koperasi.
    • Menstruktur semula dan menilai semula struktur keseluruhan ekuiti 10 syarikat Kumpulan FGV dan ekuiti Malaysia Holdings Berhad (MSM) untuk menjana pulangan yang konsisten kepada KPF.
    • Meningkatkan sumbangan perniagaan dalam ekosistem FELDA seperti Buah Tandan Segar (BTS) dan Pusat Memungut Sawit (PMS) ke arah bayaran dividen.
    • Membangunkan aset pelaburan dan aktiviti perniagaan luar yang mampan, berdaya saing, dan menjana pulangan yang konsisten.

    KPF yakin bahawa pelan penstrukturan semula aset ini akan membolehkan koperasi ini kekal relevan dan terus memberi manfaat kepada anggotanya dan peneroka Felda.

  • Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur 2024 to host international leaders in smart and sustainable manufacturing

    Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur (IMKL) returns next week to the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre (KLCC), from 10 – 12 July 2024. The event will bring together an international line-up of experts to guide manufacturers across the ASEAN region through key topics in industry 4.0, including generative AI, ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) principles, cloud infrastructure, data centres and more. In addition to its flagship two-day conference, participants can look forward to a variety of product showcases, interactive workshops and live technology demonstrations.

    Ms Fiona Chiew, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, commented on the return of Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur, stating: “ASEAN’s rising appeal among international manufacturers has led to a significant expansion of its industrial capabilities in recent years, and Malaysia’s commitment to modernising its industrial sector, in particular, makes it an ideal host for this event. It offers an excellent opportunity for regional businesses to connect with and learn from leading international experts in digital transformation, many of whom will be speaking in the region for the first time.”

    The event’s second edition will feature insights from 24 speakers representing 10 countries and regions, including Brazil, Mexico, Singapore, Switzerland, Taiwan and the UK. Attendees will learn how these new technologies and business models can be adapted to meet their unique organisational needs, with a focus on how sustainability is reshaping the modern manufacturing process.

    The event’s centrepiece is its two-day conference, co-organised by the Selangor Human Resources Development Centre (SHRDC) and guided by the Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur advisory committee. Themed “Towards net-zero: The digital transition for sustainable manufacturing”, this year’s conference includes four tracks investigating the interplay between smart technologies and sustainability, the applications of operational technologies including AI, robotics and cloud data, and emerging business models in manufacturing. The programme will also include a series of compelling case studies highlighting successful digital transformation initiatives by companies including Finesse Moulding, Markaids, Steelcase and more.

    Featuring an international roster of contributors from a wide range of backgrounds including academia, government and industry, the conference will present a thoughtful selection of perspectives on the latest trends and challenges in the field. Among the notable speakers are:

    Prof Dr David Romero, Scientific Vice-Chairman, World Manufacturing Foundation and Professor of Advanced Manufacturing, Tecnológico de Monterrey, Mexico, will introduce six innovative business models designed to enhance manufacturers’ sustainability and resilience, featuring insights from the World Manufacturing Report 2023.

    Prof Dr Ong Kian Ming, Pro Vice-Chancellor of External Engagement, Taylors University, Former Deputy Minister, Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) and 2-term Member of Parliament will lead the closing panel alongside the IMKL advisory committee and Mr Raimund Klein, Founder and CEO, International Centre for Industrial Transformation (INCIT), exploring the current state of digital transformation in the ASEAN’s manufacturing sector and its forthcoming challenges.

    Mr Rodrigo Nader, Founder and CEO, Langflow, will explain how generative AI is revolutionising factory digitalisation and workforce development, providing real-world examples from manufacturing.

    Mr Zeger-Jan van de Weg, CEO, Flowfuse, will discuss how the Unified Namespace (UNS) and low-code platforms enable engineers to implement automation solutions without the need for extensive coding knowledge.

    Dr Bala Amavasai, Chief Technology Officer – Industry, Celebal Technologies, will explore how cloud computing, data analytics and artificial intelligence are helping manufacturers streamline their operations and achieve a higher standard of efficiency.

    Additional conference highlights:

    • Navigating the digital shift towards a smart and sustainable factory (Keynote)

    By Mr Martin Schiesser, Senior Partner, Detecon (Schweiz) AG, Head Manufacturing Industries

    • Is digital twin technology a reality for manufacturers?
      By Mr Mahadevan Balasubramaniam, Head of Business Development & Government Affairs, CEO Office, Siemens Malaysia
    • Digitalisation as a means to eliminate unplanned manufacturing downtime
      By Mr Kelvin Chong, Country Manager, Schaeffler Malaysia

    Complimentary entry to tech labs and product showcases:

    Alongside the conference, the event’s standalone product showcase area will provide attendees with a chance to experience the latest technologies first-hand. Notable participants include MPDV, the event’s silver sponsor, along with Advantech, FSBM MES Elite, IT Group, Roll Robotics and Turck Banner. CTI Resources, partnering with Schaeffler and Stratus Technologies, as well as YNY Technology, partnering with Hexagon AEM will also be present.

    Visitors can further explore these technologies at the fair’s Tech Labs, which offer a space for detailed product introductions and further expert-led discussions. One session, led by Mr KK Pang, Executive Director of FSBM will explore the role of Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES) in real-time data monitoring and sustainability. Another, presented by Dr Kevin Ho, ESG Compliance Manager, ESG Compliance Department, i-Chem Solution Sdn Bhd will simplify the complexities of ESG criteria, making these guidelines easier for businesses to understand and follow.

    Entry to the product showcase area and Tech Labs is free for professionals aged 18 and above. An admission fee is required to participate in the conference:

    • Two-day conference package: MYR 2,000/person
    • Early bird rate (available until 9 July): MYR 1,800/person
    • Group purchase (three or more tickets): MYR 1,350/person
    • Academic discount: MYR 1,000/person
    • Student discount: MYR 800/person

    All prices are subject to local prevailing sales and service tax. For Malaysian delegates and Human Resource Development Corporation (HRD Corp) registered companies, these fees may be claimed under the HRD Corp levy. To sign up for the event, please visit https://qr.messefrankfurt.com/w6B5.

    Intelligent Manufacturing Kuala Lumpur is organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd. The conference session is co-organised with the Selangor Human Resources Development Centre (SHRDC). The event is supported by a number of prominent organisations and industry associations, including:

    • Communication 21 Media Group Sdn Bhd
    • International Alliance of Robotics Associations (IARA)
    • Machinery and Engineering Industries Federation (MEIF)
    • Malaysian Industrial Development Finance Berhad (MIDF)
    • Malaysia Productivity Corporation (MPC)
    • Malaysia Robotics & Automation Society (MyRAS)
    • Malaysian Rubber Products Manufacturer’s Association (MRPMA)
    • Malaysian Timber Council (MTC)
    • The National ESG Association of Malaysia
    • TusStar Malaysia
    • Smart4wrd
  • TNG Digital Launches e-Mas: Digital Gold Investment Now on TNG eWallet

    TNG Digital Launches e-Mas: Digital Gold Investment Now on TNG eWallet

    TNG Digital Sdn. Bhd. (TNG Digital”), Malaysia’s largest integrated fintech player, has launched e-Mas, a gold investment product now available within TNG eWallet. The all-digital gold investment product offers users a secure and convenient way to diversify their investment portfolios.

    The launch event, graced by YB Tuan Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital, marked a significant milestone for TNG Digital and its collaborator, CIMB Bank Berhad. The Minister’s support underscores the government’s commitment to fostering digital financial inclusivity and innovation.

    Alan Ni, Chief Executive Officer of TNG Digital, expressed, ‘With the launch of e-Mas, we are broadening our range of investment products within the TNG eWallet as part of our efforts to spearhead financial empowerment and accessibility for Malaysians.’ He added, ‘We are extremely honored that our efforts to democratize access to digital financial offerings, such as digital gold investment, are supported by the Minister of Digital, YB Tuan Gobind Singh Deo.’ Powered by CIMB Bank Berhad as the liquidity provider, users can invest in gold via TNG eWallet and diversify their investment portfolios with a low entry amount of RM10.

    Chu Kok Wei, Co-CEO of Group Wholesale Banking at CIMB Group, emphasized, “At CIMB, we are dedicated to pioneering a digital-centric approach to treasury products.” He continued, “We are pleased to act as the liquidity provider for e-Mas, leveraging our robust capabilities in risk management and digital treasury solutions.” The collaboration with TNG Digital marks a transformative leap forward, complementing CIMB’s longstanding presence in the wholesale financial market and reflecting their commitment to delivering bespoke financial solutions across diverse client segments.

    e-Mas complements TNG Wallet’s existing investment offerings, providing users with an accessible entry point into gold investment from as low as RM10 with no hidden costs. This new product is designed to offer a superior investment experience with a seamless end-to-end digital journey, allowing users to monitor gold prices with live updates and manage their investments directly from the eWallet.

    e-Mas represents just one of the many financial services products offered under the investment feature of TNG eWalet, aimed at empowering Malaysians to make better financial decisions. With a comprehensive suite of convenient, secure, and rewarding financial services products, TNG Digital is committed to providing users with the tools they need to manage their finances effectively.

  • JoeyLeong dengan single baharunya “FOG”!

    JoeyLeong dengan single baharunya “FOG”!

    Penyanyi muda yang kian mendapat perhatian, Adrianna Cinta muncul dengan single terbarunya yang bertajuk “Semesta”. Lagu ini mengisahkan seseorang yang sedang mencari dan mengenali dirinya dalam masa yang sama harus membuat pilihan besar dalam hidup sehingga dia merasakan tekanan dalam dirinya.

    “Semesta menceritakan seseorang yang sedang mengalami krisis dengan diri sendiri, selalu rasa sedih dan menangis pada waktu malam dan bila bangun pagi dia berharap semuanya akan berakhir. Dia juga berharap semesta akan memihak kepada dirinya dan membimbing hidupnya.” jelas Adrianna.

    Adrianna turut berkongsi bahawa cabaran utama dalam menulis lagu ini adalah menentukan kisah siapa yang harus ditonjolkan dan bagaimana cerita tersebut harus disampaikan. Setelah diberikan skrip filem “X-Change”, Adrianna mengambil keputusan untuk menulis tentang watak utama yang sedang berhadapan dengan krisis memahami diri sendiri sehingga mengalami masalah seperti kemurungan.

    Menurut Adrianna, proses penulisan lagu “Semesta” berlaku dengan sangat pantas. Dia berterima kasih kepada Farouk Roman yang merupakan komposer bagi lagu ini dan beliau sangat membantu dalam pembikinan lagu ini. Menariknya, Adrianna hanya mengambil masa selama 30 minit untuk merakamkan lagu ini di studio, dan ini menjadikan rakaman lagu ini merupakan antara yang paling pantas pernah dilakukan olehnya.

    Lebih istimewa lagi, runut bunyi untuk drama bersiri X-Changed ini bukan sahaja mempunyai versi Bahasa Melayu namun ianya turut mempunyai versi Bahasa Mandarin berjudul 迷雾 (Fog) yang dinyanyikan Joey Leong yang merupakan salah seorang pelakon untuk drama bersiri ini.

    Menurut Joey, cabaran utama dalam merakam lagu ini adalah bagaimana beliau mahu menyampaikan lagu ini dari wataknya sendiri, Lilian.

    “Saya perlu mengambil sedikit masa untuk mendapatkan emosi yang betul sebagaimana saya gambarkan penceritaan lagu dan juga keseluruhan drama bersiri ini.”

    Joey juga menyatakan beliau hampir menitiskan air mata kerana lirik dan lagu tersebut sangat dekat dengan dirinya. Selain itu, beliau berasa sangat gembira kerana pihak produksi telah memilihnya untuk menyanyikan lagu ini.

    “Saya merasakan lagu ini sangat istimewa. Jadi, saya sangat-sangat berterima kasih kepada pihak produksi kerana memilih saya untuk menyanyikan lagu ini.” kata Joey.

    Sepanjang pembikinan lagu ini juga segala-galanya turut mudah dan kerjasama bersama Farouk Roman memudahkan lagi proses rakaman yang dilakukan dalam versi Mandarin.

    Untuk makluman, lagu Semesta & 迷雾 (Fog) bakal dilancarkan pada 28 Jun 2024 dan juga boleh dimuat turun melalui iTunes dan dinikmati melalui semua platform digital seperti Apple Music, Deezer, KKbox, Spotify, YouTube dan YouTube Music pada hari yang sama. Manakala, lirik video Semesta dari Adrianna Cinta akan ditayangkan secara rasminya pada 28 Jun 2024 bermula jam 9 Malam pada saluran YouTube Adrianna Cinta Vevo dan Fog dari Joey Leong pada saluran YouTube Rocketfuel Entertainment.

  • Lisa of BLACKPINK Reveals Her New Solo Single, “Rockstar”

    Lisa of BLACKPINK Reveals Her New Solo Single, “Rockstar”

    LISA (Lalisa Manobal), a well-known rapper, singer, dancer, and style icon, releases her new single, “Rockstar,” via LLOUD Co./RCA Records today. CLICK HERE to hear “Rockstar” The song “Rockstar” features LISA’s skillful transition between pop vocals and nimble raps, as she sings, “She’s a rockstar with her gold teeth sitting on the dash.” Make the singer you love want to rap, darling lala. Ryan Tedder and Sam Homaee produced the new song.

    In tandem with the song, LISA has also shared the official video for “Rockstar” directed by Henry Schofield and choreographed by Sean Bankhead. Shot on location in Bangkok, the video finds Lisa taking over the city with an ode to her Thai culture and authentic Thai street life as she embodies her true rockstar with showstopping choreography. Watch the video HERE.

    LISA first teased the new single earlier this month on social media through the launch of her TikTok account which set a Guinness World Record by gaining 1M followers in 2 hours and 18 minutes. She announced the single last week to much fanfare and excitement from fans as well as the likes of Rolling Stone, Billboard and more.

    “Rockstar” is LISA’s first solo single released under the new partnership with her management company LLOUD Co. and RCA Records. Launched earlier this year, LLOUD CO. was founded by LISA in an effort to create a platform to showcase her overall vision in music and entertainment that pushes boundaries.

    LISA is best known as a member of one of the most popular K-pop girl groups BLACKPINK. Beyond her success with BLACKPINK, LISA has broken several records globally as a solo artist with singles “Lalisa” and “Money” charting in the top 10 of the Billboard Global 200 and “Money” holding the record as the longest-charting song by a solo female K-pop artist on the Billboard Hot 100 in the US and on the U.K. Singles Chart

    LISA broke three Guinness World Records in 2023 as the most Instagram followers for a K-pop artist (currently at 103 million followers on the platform), she is also the first solo K-pop winner at both the MTV Video Music Awards and the MTV European Music Awards.

    Outside of music, LISA is set to star in the upcoming season of the hit HBO Original series, The White Lotus, season 3. This role will mark her major on-screen debut and is filming in her native Thailand.

    Along with her global dominance in music and unparalleled stage presence, she is known for her unique fashion sense and trendsetting style, making her a prominent force in the global fashion industry. She has had several major partnerships and is currently the face of Bulgari.

    FOLLOW LISA: INSTAGRAM 

    For more information on LISA, please contact The LEDE Company:

    Christopher Iacullo |chris.iacullo@ledecompany.com 

    Kristin Somin | kristin.somin@ledecompany.com

    Alex Labrie | alex.labrie@ledecompany.com

     

  • UKKM: Membangunkan Bakat Keusahawanan dan Koperasi Menuju Kedermawanan Global

    UKKM: Membangunkan Bakat Keusahawanan dan Koperasi Menuju Kedermawanan Global

    Pada 27 Jun 2024, World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur menyaksikan satu peristiwa bersejarah bagi pendidikan tinggi keusahawanan dan koperasi di Malaysia. Universiti Keusahawanan Koperasi Malaysia (UKKM) mengadakan majlis penting yang menandakan pencapaian gemilang dengan pelantikan Datuk Ewon Benedick sebagai Canselor pertama, disertai oleh Dato’ Suriani Dato’ Ahmad dan Tan Sri Dato’ Sri Mohamad Fuzi Harun sebagai Pro Canselor.

    Datuk Ewon Benedick, Menteri Pembangunan Usahawan dan Koperasi yang berpengalaman, mengucapkan terima kasih kepada para peneraju UKKM seperti Datuk Wira (Dr.) Rosli Mat Hassan, Datuk Mohd Ali Mansor, dan Prof. Dato’ Dr. Azali Mohamed, serta seluruh komuniti UKKM yang telah memberikan sokongan tanpa batas dalam pembangunan institusi ini.

    Dalam ucapannya, Datuk Ewon Benedick menegaskan visi UKKM untuk memenuhi keperluan tenaga kerja terlatih dalam sektor koperasi, menjana profesional berpendidikan tinggi. Beliau dengan yakin menyatakan bahawa UKKM akan menjadi pusat keunggulan global dalam bidang keusahawanan dan koperasi, menyiapkan graduan yang mampu bersaing di arena antarabangsa. Sebagai sebahagian daripada inisiatif global UKKM, telah diumumkan Program Menoktahkan Kemiskinan di Sabah yang akan menerima 20 pelajar setiap ambilan untuk program Diploma dan Ijazah Sarjana Muda. Keputusan yang lebih mencuri perhatian adalah pelantikan pelajar dari Palestin untuk program Ijazah Sarjana dan PhD di UKKM, menandakan komitmen universiti ini dalam diplomasi pendidikan antarabangsa.

    Datuk Ewon Benedick juga mengajak sokongan sektor koperasi untuk mewujudkan visi dan misi UKKM melalui pelaburan, penajaan pelajar, serta kerjasama industri yang strategik.

    UKKM bukan sahaja sebuah institusi pendidikan tinggi; ia melambangkan harapan dan masa depan gerakan koperasi di Malaysia. Dengan semangat yang teguh, UKKM bersedia untuk mengangkat martabat sektor koperasi ke persada global, memastikan negara kita bergerak maju dalam bidang keusahawanan dan koperasi.

    Momentum hari ini menandakan permulaan babak baru dalam sejarah pendidikan tinggi Malaysia. Semua pihak dipelawa untuk bersama-sama merealisasikan visi dan misi UKKM, memperjuangkan kemajuan sektor koperasi demi kejayaan negara.

  • GILE 2024 highly praised by participants as driving the development of the lighting industry

    The 29th edition of the Guangzhou International Lighting Exhibition (GILE) concluded on 12 June 2024, at the China Import and Export Complex in Guangzhou, concurrently with Guangzhou Electrical Building Technology (GEBT). Running under the theme of “Light – The Power of Infinity” GILE 2024 gathered industry players to explore the diverse applications of light, and was met with much positive feedback from participants.

    Key figures from GILE and GEBT 2024:

    • Visitors: 208,992 from 150 countries and regions
    • Exhibitors: 3,383 from 20 countries and regions
    • Scale: 260,000 gross sqm (26 halls in areas A and B)

    Ms Lucia Wong, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, conveyed her gratitude for the unwavering support from the industry towards the event: “In the era of ‘Light +’, the lighting industry is poised to expand its horizons with an array of new applications. The theme of this year’s show, ‘Light – The Power of Infinity’ symbolises the boundless possibilities of light, encompassing AIoT, optical communication, big data, healthcare, lifestyle, low carbon and new energy solutions, aquaculture, new media arts, extended reality, and countless other domains. It is at events like GILE where this can be made into reality, and the huge number of participants at this year’s show along with the incredibly positive feedback we’ve received proves that we are indeed succeeding in this effort. I would therefore like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the industry for their invaluable contribution in making GILE possible and helping the show to reach new heights.”

    3,383 exhibitors presented innovative lighting technologies

    The 2024 edition of the fair stands as one of its most substantial to date, with 26 halls and 260,000 sqm of exhibition space hosting 3,383 exhibitors from diverse industries. Throughout the fairground, GILE 2024 garnered widespread acclaim from all manner of participants.

    Exhibitors’ comments

    “I believe GILE is one of the most significant events in the lighting industry. It carries the responsibility to promote sustainability because of its broad influence. Being part of this platform is crucial for us to communicate our commitment to sustainability to all our industry partners, customers and suppliers. This year’s show is enormous in terms of the number of visitors and unmatched in the quality of those visitors. We are here because we have a strong belief in the local Chinese market, which is evolving in ways that align with Vossloh-Schwabe’s interests. That’s why we continue to invest in this exhibition every year.”

    Mr Kenji H.P. Lau, General Manager, Vossloh-Schwabe Hong Kong Ltd

    “I’ve been with the company for just over a decade, and during that time we’ve been coming every year. In the early days we attended the show in order to have a stronger presence in the China market, but now this has become one of the biggest international shows for lighting. The turnout has been very good this year, with people from all over the world and from all different types of lighting applications are coming through and visiting our booth. We’re marketing to our direct customers, many of whom have booths here themselves, but also to specifiers and lighting designers, we want them to know who we are and what we have to offer.”

    Mr Tom Jory, VP Power Device Marketing & MARCOM – Marketing, Luminus Devices Inc

    “Among the many lighting exhibitions in China, GILE stands out with its unparalleled scale and influence. We attend the show every year in order to reach more potential customers and expand our business network in the South China region, as well as the rest of the country. At this year’s edition, we have begun to collaborate with a number of exhibiting companies in power supply and light source manufacturing sectors in China.”

    Mr Huang Xianbo, Head of Marketing Department/Chief Designer of Smart Lighting Solutions, Jiangsu inSona Communication Technology Co Ltd

    “General Lighting specialises in linear lighting, mainly LED strip and neon, and we’re looking for customers ranging from manufacturers to architects and lighting designers. We’ve been coming to GILE every year, and this year we’ve improved the design aspect of our booth, and seen more customers come as a result, so it’s been a very positive response overall. We’ll definitely come back here next year, as it is a meeting point for the industry. For us the benefit of participating is that it attracts serious buyers, who not only attend the show and visit our booth, but also visit our factories, which makes all the difference as they can truly understand our company.”

    Mr Richard James, Regional Business Development Manager, General Lighting Electronic Co Ltd

    “For many years, we have participated in GILE, which we believe is a driving force for the entire industry. This year’s exhibition has had a very large flow of visitors, and we have also clearly felt an increase in overseas visitors, from countries in the ‘Belt and Road’ initiative as well as from Europe, the United States, and Southeast Asia. We will continue to participate in GILE in the years to come, because we believe it is a very good platform that allows us to promote our brand, exchange industry expertise, and expand our network.”

    Mr Li Quan, Brand Director, Guangdong PAK Corporation Co Ltd

     

    Visitors’ comments

    “GILE is one of the largest lighting fairs in the world, so I think if you are involved in the lighting business it’s obvious that you should come here. China is also the largest market for lighting, and lighting has been a huge development in the country because they have been building so much brand-new infrastructure. What is very interesting for my members, is that at this exhibition you don’t only have lighting fixtures manufacturers represented, you also have components manufacturers, and you can find many different technologies around luminaires on display at the fairground. So, from the perspective of French lighting manufacturers, it’s a very interesting fair.”
    Mr Jean-Marie Croué, Executive Officer, Syndicat du Luminaire – GIL (France)

    “This is our first time visiting GILE, and we are very impressed by the scale of the show. My association mainly focuses on the Internet of Things (IoT) and this time we are looking for suppliers in the fields of smart and commercial lighting, AI and other advanced smart technologies. The matchmaking programme has helped us to meet with a targeted selection of exhibitors, many of whom we will have further discussions with after the show. I will introduce the show to our association members in Thailand and I hope to organise another delegation next year.”  Dr Suthat Krongchon, President, Thai IoT Association (Thailand)

     Speakers’ comments

    “Lighting design is evolving from functional and ambient lighting to interactive, data-integrated systems that go far beyond just illumination, much like how mobile phones have evolved from basic communication devices to multi-functional smartphones. China has been making rapid advances in this area, as I find that my clients here in China are more adventurous, they are more open to new technologies and new ideas, and as such many of the latest innovations are coming out of the country in recent years. However, I think for the global lighting industry to work together and function effectively, we must have dialogue between both sides, and that’s why I’m always happy to speak at GILE, to bridge the Chinese and Western lighting communities.”
    Mr Martin Klaasen, Principal & Founder of Klaasen Lighting Design

    “In my presentation today, I wanted to approach the topic of lighting design from the perspective of daily life, exploring the people and things that emit light in our everyday lives, and how lighting can improve our lives. Many audience members came to listen and I felt the passion and focus of everyone present. The speakers were all highly professional, and the expertise they shared was immensely beneficial to me. I found that the exhibition halls have exceeded my expectations, the venue was bustling with people, whose enthusiasm for lighting design was on clear display.”
    Ms Lillian Tian, Founder and Design Director, WTL Design

    Audience comments

    “We had the privilege of listening to Mr Stefano’s presentation. As a designer with rich experience in the field of lighting design, his insights and works have helped us to understand the cutting-edge design trends worldwide. GILE is a very significant event in the lighting design industry, attracting many industry insiders every year to keep up to date on the current state of the lighting industry. This year, we feel that many of our fellow designers are very focused on GILE, and the participation of many well-known Chinese and foreign designers has made this forum more valuable to audiences.”
    Ms Yina Situ, Partner/Operations Director, GODEN LIGHTING DESIGN

    “Our company mainly focuses on operating indoor farms. The topic about Bio-optics and Plant Factory matches our business well and I have learnt a lot from the forum. For example, I learnt how to properly apply spectrums to place different impacts on plants. I also visited the booths at the show and was impressed by the large scale and the full range of products on display. I’ve found several suppliers in the agricultural lighting sector and will have further discussions with them later.”
    Mr Leung Say Hao, Crop Scientist, Archisen Pte Ltd

    The next editions of Guangzhou International Lighting Exhibition and Guangzhou Electrical Building Technology will be held from 9 – 12 June 2025. Both shows are part of Messe Frankfurt’s Light + Building Technology fairs headed by the biennial Light + Building event. The next edition will be held from 8 – 13 March 2026 in Frankfurt, Germany.

    Messe Frankfurt organises several trade fairs for the light and building technology sectors in Asia, including Shanghai Intelligent Building Technology, Shanghai Smart Home Technology and Parking China. The company’s lighting and building technology trade fairs also cover the markets in Argentina, India, Türkiye, the UAE and the USA.

    For more information on Light + Building shows worldwide, please visit http://www.brand.light-building.com. For more information regarding the lighting shows in China, please visit http://www.light.messefrankfurt.com.cn or email light@china.messefrankfurt.com.

  • LISA Drops Highly Anticipated Single “Rockstar” Under New Partnership

    LISA Drops Highly Anticipated Single “Rockstar” Under New Partnership

    World-renowned rapper, singer, dancer, and style icon, LISA (Lalisa Manobal), first teased her new single, “Rockstar,” earlier this month through the launch of her TikTok account, which set a Guinness World Record by gaining 1 million followers in 2 hours and 18 minutes.

    “Rockstar,” LISA’s first single released under her new partnership with management company LLOUD Co. and RCA Records, will be available globally on Thursday, June 27th at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT.

    Launched earlier this year, LLOUD Co. was founded by LISA to create a platform showcasing her overall vision in music and entertainment that pushes boundaries. Pre-order/save “Rockstar” here and see her post on Instagram here.

  • PCIM Asia 2024 to address high-growth segments of power electronics market through conference and forum line-up

    Mark your calendars for the upcoming PCIM Asia event! This highly anticipated exhibition and conference will once again take place at the prestigious Shenzhen World Exhibition and Convention Centre from 28 – 30 August 2024. Don’t miss out on the latest advancements in power electronics, intelligent motion, renewable energy, and energy management. A significant portion of the booth space for the event’s 2024 edition has already been booked by exhibitors eager to showcase their latest advancements in various market segments such as e-mobility, clean energy, energy storage, and wide-bandgap (WBG) devices. The event aims to foster industry dialogue on these rapidly expanding application areas through a range of themed forums and its renowned conference programmes.

    Electric vehicles (EV) and renewable energy are playing a significant role in the growth of the global power electronics market, specifically for WBG devices like GaN and SiC. This expansion is happening on a global scale. Projections suggest that the markets for these devices have the potential to soar to staggering figures of USD 1.33 billion and USD 5.33 billion respectively by 20261, opening up exciting prospects for business expansion and creativity throughout the industry.

    PCIM Asia 2024 offers participants the opportunity to explore various trends and technologies through multiple channels. These include the exhibition floor, a series of forums, and the PCIM Asia Conference. The event unites professionals from various sectors of the power electronics supply chain, including manufacturers, suppliers, researchers, and industry experts. It provides a platform for networking, exchanging knowledge, and exploring innovative products and solutions.

    Forums and concurrent events

    In addition to the main exhibition, PCIM Asia offers a variety of concurrent forums that allow for further learning and interaction. The Exhibitor Forums offer exhibitors the opportunity to showcase their latest technologies, while the Industry Forums bring together renowned speakers, including researchers and subject matter experts, to delve into the advancements, innovations, and obstacles in the power electronics industry within specific application areas.

    Exhibitor Forums:

    • Power Electronics Application Forum: A platform for exhibitors to present their latest products and solutions to the Chinese power electronics market, with offerings including a trend summit, product release presentations, technical trainings, product demonstrations and business matchmaking sessions.
    • WBG Semiconductor Forum: Addressing the wide bandgap devices market, this forum will cover the latest advancements in SiC and GaN power technologies, discussing supply chain considerations as well as the applications of these technologies in various fields.

    Industry Forums:

    • Electric Vehicles and Intelligent Motion Forum: Industry experts and researchers will engage in discussions on electric vehicles, fuel cells, intelligent control systems and electric drives, all within the context of China’s rapidly expanding EV ecosystem.
    • Clean Energy and Energy Storage Forum: Academics and leading enterprises will explore advancements in renewable energy generation and next-generation energy storage, along with enabling solutions in intelligence, digitalisation, multi-vector energy systems and more, highlighting the role of clean energy in supporting sustainability and the low-carbon transition.

    PCIM Asia Conference

    Like its acclaimed sister event, PCIM Europe in Nuremberg, Germany, PCIM Asia hosts an industry-leading conference concurrently with the exhibition. This conference brings together experts from both industry and academia to exchange technical knowledge and present their latest research findings.

    Reflecting the event’s rising global influence in the power electronics sector, the PCIM Asia Advisory Board reviewed over 100 paper submissions in 2024, representing a 30% increase over the 2023 edition. Topics covered include Si devices, power conversion, e-mobility, packaging technologies, smart grid networks, and more.

    Prospective attendees can register before 1 July to take advantage of an early bird 20% discount on conference tickets. Details and the registration portal can be found at: https://jinshuju.net/portals/RJ4w0v/login.

    PCIM Asia is jointly organised by Guangzhou Guangya Messe Frankfurt Co Ltd and Mesago Messe Frankfurt GmbH. To find out more about PCIM Asia, please visit www.pcimasia-expo.com or email pcimasia@china.messefrankfurt.com.