Singapore's Blueprint for a Future City
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This week, Gabrielle Ng looks at how Singapore is trying to adapt its city for an aging population and a hotter world, while Ishika Mookerjee bemoans the pressures that could make air travel even more expensive.
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Associated Press
37 minutes ago
- Associated Press
Green SM recognized for green leadership at AREA 2025
BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 28 June 2025 - Green SM, Southeast Asia's first all-electric ride-hailing platform, developed by Vietnam's Green and Smart Mobility Joint Stock Company (GSM), has been awarded Green Leadership at the prestigious Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards (AREA) 2025 held in Bangkok. The recognition celebrates Green SM's pioneering role in shaping a sustainable transportation ecosystem in Vietnam and expanding its green mobility model across the region. Ms. Phan Thi Hong Dung – Director of Training and Culture Development at GSM (center) represented the company to receive the award at the event. Founded in 2011 by Enterprise Asia, AREA is among the most respected awards in Asia for corporate sustainability, innovation, and social responsibility. The 2025 theme, 'A Necessary Shift to a Regenerative Economy,' highlights the growing expectation for businesses to restore ecosystems and deliver sustainable value to communities. Green SM stood out in the Green Leadership category for its scalable and inclusive approach to electrifying urban transport. The company operates its own fleet of electric vehicles, while also offering a technology platform – the Green SM Platform, allowing individual VinFast EV owners to join the service. In addition, Green SM also partners with traditional taxi operators to support their transition to electric vehicles. Together, these three components form a flexible, open ecosystem that accelerates the shift toward green mobility in Vietnam and beyond. 'Sustainability at Green SM goes beyond strategy. It is deeply embedded in our everyday decisions, our culture, and how we grow,' said Ms. Phan Thi Hong Dung, Director of Training and Culture Development at GSM, at the award ceremony. 'We believe that a truly sustainable model only works when every individual within the ecosystem chooses to live green, work green, and serve their community with kindness and responsibility. Each ride with Green SM not only helps reduce emissions but also encourages positive habits and sets new standards for sustainable living in society. We are proud that Green SM's journey toward global expansion has been recognized on such a prominent platform in Asia.' The award marks a significant milestone in Green SM's broader 'Go Green Global' journey. This recognition goes beyond a single Vietnamese enterprise. It reflects Vietnam's growing potential to drive innovation, scale impactful solutions, and contribute a long-term ecosystem perspective to the global green transformation. In just two years, the company has expanded beyond Vietnam into Laos, Indonesia, and the Philippines, completing more than 300 million trips, covering 1.7 billion zero-emission kilometers. The total reduction in CO₂ emissions is estimated at over 211,000 tons, equivalent to the annual carbon absorption capacity of approximately 3,200 hectares of forest. Back home in Vietnam, the company leads the electric taxi market with nearly 40% market share and has partnered with nearly 100 local transport businesses to support their electrification journeys. Big local names such as G7 Taxi, Mai Linh, Lado Taxi, and En Vang have joined the effort with 19 companies fully converting their fleets to electric vehicles. This marks a defining shift: green mobility is no longer an alternative, but a new standard in modern urban transport. With operations now spanning four Southeast Asian countries, Green SM is the second-largest ride-hailing brand in the region and the only one powered entirely by electric vehicles. Its ability to operate efficiently across diverse markets with varying infrastructure and user behaviors is a strong testament to the company's capacity for large-scale deployment, high adaptability, and strategic regional vision as a Vietnamese brand. Hashtag: #GSM #GreenGSM The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Associated Press
37 minutes ago
- Associated Press
Glowing Success Dragon and Green Myanmar Dragon Announce Strategic Partnership Opportunities
Glowing Success Dragon Co., Ltd. and Green Myanmar Dragon Co., Ltd. extend an invitation to investors, regional conglomerates, and strategic collaborators for mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and brand licensing opportunities across their iconic product lines. Myanmar, June 28, 2025 -- A Legacy of Trust: Introducing Two Companies, One Unified Vision For over three decades, Glowing Success Dragon Co., Ltd. and Green Myanmar Dragon Co., Ltd. have been at the heart of Myanmar's consumer goods sector, shaping the market with some of the country's most beloved and enduring brands. These two sister companies are now inviting strategic partners to engage in a variety of collaboration opportunities, from mergers and acquisitions to joint ventures and brand licensing agreements. This is a chance for businesses to align with brands that are deeply rooted in Myanmar's daily life and poised for continued growth. At the core of this invitation are Myanmar's iconic hygiene and beverage products: These products not only boast strong market share but are deeply ingrained in the lives of millions of Myanmar households, making them ideal candidates for expansion and further development. Glowing Success Dragon Co., Ltd. – A Heritage of Quality and Reliability Founded in Myanmar, Glowing Success Dragon Co., Ltd. has been an anchor in the hygiene and home-care industry for decades. The company's portfolio includes popular products like Shwe Wah and Shwe Lar, two of the most trusted and widely used bar soaps in Myanmar. These soaps are made from high-quality coconut oil-based surfactants and a fabric-friendly formula, making them essential in both rural and urban communities. The company's Carbolic Soap, with its deep scent and unmistakable red hue, has established itself as the go-to solution for antibacterial and heavy-duty cleaning. Trusted by hospitals, schools, and homes alike, Carbolic Soap represents decades of consistent quality and market reliability. As a company built on family values and consumer trust, Glowing Success Dragon has established a nationwide distribution network that includes ISO 9001-certified factories and a comprehensive delivery fleet. The company's deep market penetration and reputation for quality ensure that its products reach every corner of Myanmar. Green Myanmar Dragon Co., Ltd. – Pioneering the Future of Health and Sustainability Green Myanmar Dragon Co., Ltd. represents the future of Myanmar's FMCG health beverage segment, focusing on sustainability, wellness, and green innovation. The company's flagship brands, Ice Mountain Purified Drinking Water and Vitamin Water are at the forefront of Myanmar's health-conscious consumer movement. Ice Mountain is sourced from deep-aquifer wells in the Bago Highlands and undergoes a rigorous seven-stage purification process. The product's commitment to quality and safety ensures it meets international standards, making it a trusted hydration choice for consumers seeking pure, safe water. Meanwhile, Vitamin Water is quickly gaining popularity in the ASEAN functional beverage market. Fortified with essential vitamins and electrolytes and with vibrant flavors like Dragon Fruit Lychee and Citrus Burst, it is poised to be a go-to product for millennials, office workers, and fitness enthusiasts. With zero added sugar and low-calorie content, it addresses the growing demand for healthier beverage options. Green Myanmar Dragon's commitment to sustainability is evident in its operations, which include solar energy usage and an active PET recycling program, setting the company apart as a forward-thinking and eco-conscious brand. Why Now? Why Partner With Us? 1. Market Leadership and Strong Brand Recall All five brands under Glowing Success Dragon and Green Myanmar Dragon are already household names in Myanmar, with strong consumer loyalty and top-of-mind brand equity. Our hygiene products dominate both retail and wholesale networks, while our beverages are making a significant mark in the health-conscious segment. 2. Scalable Infrastructure Our ISO 9001-certified factories, distribution fleet, and key warehousing facilities across Yangon and Mandalay ensure that we can scale our operations both regionally and internationally. With a mature supply chain and flexible operations, we're primed for growth. 3. Regulatory Compliance and Certifications All our products are FDA-approved in Myanmar, and our beverage lines adhere to ASEAN food safety guidelines. Our export dossiers are ready for international partners looking to bring our products to global markets. 4. Attractive Financials Our hygiene products offer gross margins between 25% and 32%, while our beverage lines provide up to 35% margins at the distributor level. With steady revenue and reliable cash flow, we present an attractive investment opportunity. 5. Legacy, Trust, and Local Knowledge Few companies in Myanmar possess our combination of consumer trust, family stewardship, and market expertise. This makes us a valuable partner for regional and international investors looking to tap into Myanmar's expanding market. Open to Strategic Collaborations We are actively seeking partners in the following areas: We are particularly interested in partners from ASEAN countries, South Asia, and other international investors who share our focus on quality, sustainability, and consumer empowerment. Our Vision: Scaling Legacy Together The next chapter for Glowing Success Dragon and Green Myanmar Dragon is one of expansive growth, digital transformation, and international collaboration. Our products have built a strong foundation, and we are now seeking partners who believe in purposeful growth. Together, we can: Media Contact: Yuzana Bo Saing Founder, GSD MMR Email: [email protected] Phone: +95 9 5134721/+1 240 504 0517/ +66 61519 4533 Website: Final Thought: A Legacy Rooted in Trust At a time when authenticity, quality, and sustainability are paramount, our brands represent more than just products, they symbolize a legacy of trust built over decades. If you believe in creating impactful, lasting businesses, we invite you to partner with us in expanding our vision. Shwe Wah, Shwe Lar, Carbolic Soap, Ice Mountain, Vitamin Water. Five brands. Two companies. One vision for shared success. Let's build it, together. Contact Info: Name: Yuzana Bo Saing Email: Send Email Organization: GSD MMR Website: Release ID: 89163443 In case of detection of errors, concerns, or irregularities in the content provided in this press release, or if there is a need for a press release takedown, we strongly encourage you to reach out promptly by contacting [email protected] (it is important to note that this email is the authorized channel for such matters, sending multiple emails to multiple addresses does not necessarily help expedite your request). Our efficient team will be at your disposal for immediate assistance within 8 hours – resolving identified issues diligently or guiding you through the removal process. We take great pride in delivering reliable and precise information to our valued readers.
Entrepreneur
39 minutes ago
- Entrepreneur
Building a Scalable and Inclusive Agri Network
With over 30,000 FPOs in its outreach network, 6,500 engaged in active transactions, and a footprint that integrates 8 million farmers, Samunnati has developed a system that not only "signifies deep trust across the agricultural ecosystem," but also operationalizes "inclusive, last-mile connectivity through FPOs." Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own. You're reading Entrepreneur India, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. "Samunnati has built one of the largest agri-value chain networks in India," shares Anil Kumar SG, Founder and Group CEO of Samunnati. With over 30,000 FPOs in its outreach network, 6,500 engaged in active transactions, and a footprint that integrates 8 million farmers, Samunnati has developed a system that not only "signifies deep trust across the agricultural ecosystem," but also operationalizes "inclusive, last-mile connectivity through FPOs." By aggregating demand and supply, the company enables these FPOs to access "tailored financial services and market linkages," which have helped "reduce costs, improve market access, and drive farmer prosperity at scale." Among its suite of offerings, one product stands out. "Samunnati introduced the Instant Preapproved Loan (IPL), a first-of-its-kind product designed specifically for newly formed FPOs with no credit or transaction history." Anil explains how IPL's minimal documentation, quick access, and customized design are critical for new FPOs. Acting as a starter credit product, it helps build credit history and improves borrowing capacity over time. The impact is tangible. "The IPL product has transformed the landscape by making thousands of new FPOs institutionally creditworthy," says Kumar, allowing them to evolve into financially sustainable, market-ready entities. While operational issues are part and parcel of any business, Anil highlights the deeper challenges that exist. "The biggest hurdles in our business stem from fundamental structural issues inherent to the agricultural value chain surrounding smallholder farmers." One major issue, according to Anil, is the lack of customized financial and trade solutions aligned with the highly seasonal nature of agriculture. Samunnati responds by "designing tailored solutions aligned with the specific cash flow patterns of different crops," thus enhancing repayment capacity. Another problem is scale. The fragmented and dispersed nature of smallholder farmers and agri enterprises limits scale and bargaining power. To overcome this, Samunnati leverages the power of aggregation through Farmer Producer Organizations, thereby reducing transaction costs and improving price realization. Finally, the absence of suitable underwriting models for FPOs has hampered credit flow. Samunnati tackled this by "developing robust in-house underwriting capabilities that combine social capital and trade capital of FPOs." This, Anil says, "transforms FPOs into credible financial entities and emerging asset classes." The cumulative result? "These solutions create significant entry barriers for others," while ensuring "scalability, risk mitigation, and sustainable growth." "Samunnati's journey toward profitability is anchored in a multi-pronged strategy focused on sustainable growth and operational efficiency," Anil says. • Year of inception – 2014 • No. of employees – 550+ Revenue for FY 2024-25: ~$850 Mn External funding: $46.5 Mn
