August 1, 2022 - Brunei News Gazette

August 1, 2022

Rupert Wadsworth joins Expereo as Senior VP of Marketing

With over 30 years of experience in the industry, Rupert will be driving Expereo’s global customer-centric marketing strategy

AMSTERDAM, Netherlands, Aug. 01, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Expereo, the world’s leading provider of Global Internet, Cloud Access Optimization, SASE and SD-WAN services has announced the appointment of Rupert Wadsworth as Senior Vice President of Marketing. In his new role, Wadsworth’s priority will be to align Expereo’s overarching global customer-centric marketing strategy with regionally tailored solutions, driving the expansion and adoption of Expereo’s services across the globe.

Wadsworth joins Expereo from NTT Ltd. where he was Senior Vice President of Marketing and Communications, leading the Marketing and Demand Generation team in Europe, covering 15 countries. Wadsworth has over 30 years of experience, holding roles in Country, Regional and Global Marketing teams in Telecommunications and IT organizations. Rupert will be key for accelerating Expereo’s trajectory of global growth and development.

Ben Elms, Chief Revenue Officer at Expereo, comments on the appointment, “Rupert’s expertise across marketing functions in telecommunications and IT organizations makes him the perfect candidate to drive Expereo’s strategy on a regional and global level and I could not be more thrilled to have him join the team. This marks the start of a great partnership and teamwork, as we take Expereo to new heights together.”

“I am very excited to be joining Expereo at this important time, as we deliver our strategy to help our enterprise customers around the world harness the power of digitization and achieve their goals with smart, versatile connectivity solutions,” commented Rupert Wadsworth, on his appointment to Senior Vice President of Marketing at Expereo.

Wadsworth’s appointment comes after a year of dynamic expansion for Expereo, as they continue to invest in their teams to create a seamless customer experience and meet their customers’ need for reliable connectivity with agile, tailored solutions, no matter where they are in the world.

About Expereo
Expereo is a leading global provider of managed network solutions including, Global Internet, SD-WAN/SASE, and Enhanced Internet. With an extensive global reach, Expereo is the trusted partner of 30% of Fortune 500 companies. It powers enterprise and government sites in more than 190 countries, helping customers improve productivity and empowering their networks and cloud services with the agility, flexibility and value of the Internet, with optimal network performance.
Expereo was acquired in Feb 2021, by Vitruvian Partners. The international growth capital and buyout firm, acquired a majority shareholding from leading European private equity firm, Apax Partners sas.
For more information visit: www.expereo.com.

Emese Csikai
Senior Account Executive
emese@grammatikagency.com

August 1, 2022

Neeyamo Achieves ISO 27017 and ISO 27018 Certification

Neeyamo demonstrates its commitment to cloud security and data privacy by achieving ISO 27017 and ISO 27018 certifications.

Neeyamo achieves ISO 27017 and ISO 27018 Certification

LOS GATOS, Calif., Aug. 01, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Neeyamo, a leading provider of global payroll and EOR services, is pleased to announce that it is an ISO 27017 and ISO 27018 certified organization.

ISO 27017:2015 specifies information security controls applicable to the provision and use of cloud services by providing additional implementation guidance for relevant controls specified in ISO/IEC 27002. The certification demonstrates the organization’s ability to provide security controls for cloud services.

ISO 27018:2019 pertains to the Code of practice for protecting personally identifiable information (PII) on the cloud. It establishes the measures to be taken in the public cloud computing environment in accordance with the privacy principles in ISO/IEC 27100, specifies guidelines based on ISO/IEC 27002, taking into consideration the regulatory requirements for the protection of PII which can be applied within the context of the information security risk environment(s).

The system and the processes, including data, are subject to stringent Security and Privacy standards when operating in an industry as sensitive as payroll. This new milestone reinforces its commitment to take all necessary steps to ensure the highest level of protection for employee data processed on a secured cloud-based technology.

“As a leading technology-enabled global payroll and EOR solutions provider, we are cautious about implementing the right controls at the right time,” said Sachin Kawalkar, Chief Information Security Officer – Global Head of Information Security and Quality, Neeyamo. “The addition of our ISO 27017 and ISO 27018 certifications to our existing portfolio should boost the confidence of all our customers and assure them that we operate with the highest standards of services.”

About Neeyamo

Neeyamo is a leading technology-enabled global payroll and EOR solutions provider for multinational and micro-multinational corporations worldwide. With an extensive team of professionals serving clients across 190+ countries, Neeyamo leverages its unique service-based model and functionality-rich, next-generation HR & payroll product portfolio to help organizations enable agile and scalable business. To know more, visit www.neeyamo.com.

Media contact: corporate.communications@neeyamo.com

Neeyamo demonstrates its commitment to cloud security and data privacy by achieving ISO 27017 and ISO 27018 certifications.

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Neeyamo achieves ISO 27017 and ISO 27018 Certification

August 1, 2022

Webull Launches Expansion into Singapore

NEW YORK, Aug. 01, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Webull Corporation (“Webull”), the owner of the popular Webull trading platform, today announced a promotional campaign to officially launch its Singapore business and entry into the Asia-Pacific region. Through Webull Securities (Singapore) Pte. Ltd. (“Webull Singapore”), a subsidiary of Webull, Singapore residents can trade U.S.-listed equities, ETFs, options, and fractional shares, as well as Hong Kong-listed equities and ETFs, all at low commissions through the award-winning Webull app. The Webull platform also makes available news, industry data and educational materials to provide investors with the tools needed to make informed investment decisions.

Bernard Teo, the Chief Executive Officer of Webull Singapore, said, “We are excited to bring Webull’s platform to Singapore’s tech-savvy investment community. Webull has enjoyed considerable success in the United States and Hong Kong, and we plan to carry that momentum into Singapore and beyond. There is a significant opportunity in the Asia-Pacific region for mobile-first brokerages that have the advanced technology to meet the demands of a new generation of investors. Starting in Singapore, we plan to capture this market opportunity.”

Webull Singapore secured its capital markets services license from the Monetary Authority of Singapore in November 2021, and Singapore residents have been able to trade on Webull’s platform since May. With this promotional campaign, Webull commences its expansion into Singapore and the Asia-Pacific region.

The Webull trading platform launched in the United States in 2018 through a subsidiary of Webull that is an SEC-registered broker-dealer and FINRA member. U.S. residents can also trade cryptocurrencies over the Webull platform through an arrangement with our partner, Apex Crypto LLC. In 2021, Webull was the second most downloaded app among pure-play brokerages in the U.S., according to App Annie. Trading over Webull’s platform is also available in Hong Kong through a Webull entity that is licensed with the Securities and Futures Commission of Hong Kong.

The Webull trading platform can be downloaded through the Apple App Store and the Google Play Store.

For more information about Webull, visit Webull’s corporate website at https://www.webullcorp.com. For media inquiries, please contact Jay Walsh at walsh@webull-us.com.

About Webull

Webull is a leading digital investment platform built on next-generation global infrastructure. Webull serves tens of millions of users from over 180 countries, providing retail investors 24/7 access to financial markets around the world. Users can put investment strategies to work by trading global stocks, ETFs, options, cryptocurrencies, and fractional shares, through Webull’s trading platform, which is currently available in the United States, Hong Kong, and Singapore. Webull also offers investment education services, with lessons covering a wide range of topics.

August 1, 2022

EV Technology Group’s Strategic Partner, MOKE International, Launches ‘Casa MOKE’ Flagship Store in Saint-Tropez and Unveils New Website, Integrating an End-to-End MOKE Customer Experience

Pictured: Casa MOKE, Saint-Tropez

Casa MOKE, Saint-Tropez

EV Technology Group’s strategic partner MOKE International opens the doors of new ‘Casa MOKE’ flagship store in Saint-Tropez
New MOKE website launches offering customers in the UK and Europe a personalised MOKE experience online, with cars delivered to an address of their choice
This completes a seamless, online and offline experience for MOKE customers
Electric MOKE on sale now with pre-orders starting from £990 at www.mokeinternational.com
EV Technology Group (NEO:EVTG, OTCQB:EVTGF, DE:B96A) recently reached a definitive agreement to purchase up to 100% of MIL, boosting MIL’s capabilities as it embarks on global expansion with new Electric MOKE
Electric MOKE revives spirit of the 1960s icon for the EV era and futureproofs British automotive brand for next generation

TORONTO, Aug. 01, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — EV Technology Group Ltd. (the “Company” or “EV Technology Group”) (NEO: EVTG, OTCQB: EVTGF, DE: B96A) announces today that its strategic partner MOKE International Limited (“MIL”), working with its distribution partner MOKE France SAS (“MOKE France”), has opened the doors of its new flagship store in its spiritual home, Saint-Tropez, France. Additionally, it has launched a brand-new website offering the unique MOKE experience online, where potential owners across the UK and Europe can configure their Electric MOKE and pay GBP£990 to secure their pre-orders and join the waiting list.

The new website gives customers the freedom to decide between having a new Electric MOKE delivered to a convenient address of their choice, or to collect it in person at Casa MOKE, situated in one of the world’s most glamourous locales.

Pictured: Casa MOKE, Saint-Tropez

Casa MOKE, Saint-Tropez

The original Mini Moke first appeared in 1964 and was embraced by luminaries such as Brigitte Bardot, James Bond and The Beach Boys; driven in glamourous and exclusive locations including the French Riviera. Saint-Tropez quickly became the spiritual home for the MOKE brand, making it the perfect location for the new Casa MOKE flagship store. The newly launched MOKE website offers the same unique MOKE experience for an online audience.

EV Technology Group bringing MOKE into the sustainable mobility era

To springboard MOKE International into the electric age and make the Electric MOKE widely available to customers, EV Technology Group, recently agreed to acquire a further 53% of MIL for total transaction value of approximately US$55.1M, and maintain an option to acquire the remaining shares of MIL. It is EV Technology Group’s mission to create and redefine the joy of motoring by electrifying iconic brands. Their investment and expertise will allow the MOKE brand to rapidly expand into global markets.

Unique MOKE experience both online and at Casa MOKE

The Electric MOKE is much more than just an electric vehicle; it’s an emblem of fun and freedom. The culture and ethos behind MOKE is as enduring as the charm of the car itself, making customer experience a crucial element of the purchasing process. The new MOKE International website features a configurator, allowing potential customers to design their own Electric MOKE to their preferred specifications, with a choice of five iconic colours from launch – Granite Grey, Sunlight Yellow, Sunset Orange, Scuba Blue and Wave Blue.

The newly-opened Casa MOKE flagship store in Saint-Tropez offers a bespoke customer experience where they can muse over and experience the Electric MOKE in person, and in the French Riviera, making green, luxurious open top driving a reality.

A network of MOKE partners and agents are being established worldwide to harmonise logistics, sales and aftersales services. In the UK, MOKE International has an exclusive partnership with Hendy Group, a family-run business with over 20 dealerships and servicing facilities located throughout the south of England.

Isobel Dando, CEO of MOKE International, said: “MOKE now offers customers the ease of configuring and purchasing their Electric MOKE online, as well as the intimate experience of the Casa MOKE flagship store. Both the website and Casa MOKE launch focus on creating a personal and simple customer experience. Online orders are delivered to an address of the customer’s choice, and at Casa MOKE customers can enjoy the Electric MOKE for themselves in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere in MOKE’s spiritual home, Saint-Tropez.”

Wouter Witvoet, CEO and founder of EV Technology Group, said: “The MOKE International team have created a seamless user experience, whether you start offline or online. From coming into Casa MOKE and encountering the Electric MOKE first hand, to finalising a purchase with the configurator. The brand is full of joy – and that’s exactly what EV Technology Group wants to achieve when electrifying iconic brands.”

Fully electric. Fully British. Fully MOKE

Production of the Electric MOKE is already underway in England, with first customer deliveries already being fulfilled. Using a 44hp motor and weighing under 800kg, the rear-wheel-drive MOKE covers 0-34mph (0-55kph) in 4.3 seconds and achieves a top speed of 50 mph (80 km/h). A full charge takes just four hours via a Type 2 port and the Electric MOKE covers up to 80 miles of range on a single charge – enough for four round trips across the Côte d’Azur.

Electric MOKE specifications

Range	120 km*
Charge	4 hours
Top speed	80 KM/h
0-55 KM/h	4.3 seconds
Power	33 kW
Battery	LITHIUM-ION

*Subject to Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WTLP) testing

Media
Rachael D’Amore
rachael@talkshopmedia.com
+1519-564-9850

Investor Relations
Dave Gentry
dave@redchip.com
+14074914498

EV Technology Group
Wouter Witvoet
CEO and Chairman of the Board
wouter@evtgroup.com

EV Technology Group
EV Technology Group was founded in 2021 with the vision to electrify iconic brands – and the mission to redefine the joy of motoring for the electric age. By acquiring iconic brands and bringing beloved motoring experiences to the electric age, EV Technology Group is driving the EV revolution forward. Backed by a diversified team of passionate entrepreneurs, engineers and driving enthusiasts, EV Technology Group creates value for its customers by owning the total customer experience — acquiring and partnering with iconic brands with significant growth potential in unique markets, and controlling end-to-end capabilities. To learn more visit: https://evtgroup.com/

About MOKE International
MOKE and the MOKE logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of MOKE International Limited in the European Union and other territories. MOKE International, a company registered in England, is the only manufacturer of genuine MOKE vehicles worldwide. The mark was acquired from Casti S.p.A. and derives from the original 1964 British Motor Corporation registration. The MOKE is a revitalised, re-engineered version of the iconic Mini Moke that was originally designed by the legendary Sir Alec Issigonis, the designer of the 1959 Mini, and launched in 1964. The Mini Moke was created as a low-cost and easy to maintain recreational and utility vehicle, but it quickly gained cult status in fashionable resorts such as the French Riviera and the Caribbean. It has been driven by Beatles, Bridget Bardot and James Bond alike. MOKE International has brought the Mini Moke into the modern age by integrating up-to-date driving technologies, including full electric power, while remaining faithful to the iconic design which made it a global hit in the 1960s. True to its heritage, MOKEs today are engineered and built in Northamptonshire, England. Production takes place at a 500,000sq ft state-of-the-art facility owned and operated by British automotive manufacturing services company, Fablink Group.

MOKE
MOKE and the MOKE logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of MOKE International Limited (“MOKE International”) in the European Union and other territories. MOKE International, a company registered in England, is the only manufacturer of genuine MOKE vehicles worldwide. The mark was acquired from Casti S.p.A. and derives from the original 1964 British Motor Corporation registration. MOKE France is the official French licensee. For more information visit: https://mokeinternational.com

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains forward-looking statements including, but not limited to: the direct-to-consumer website of MIL, online orders for the Electric MOKE, the real world performance of the Electric MOKE and the definitive agreement between EV Technology Group and the shareholders of MIL. Often, but not always, these Forward-looking Statements can be identified by the use of words such as “estimated”, “potential”, “open”, “future”, “assumed”, “projected”, “used”, “detailed”, “has been”, “gain”, “planned”, “reflecting”, “will”, “containing”, “remaining”, “to be”, or statements that events, “could” or “should” occur or be achieved and similar expressions, including negative variations.
Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the Forward-looking Statements, including those factors discussed under “Risk Factors” in the filing statement of the Company. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in Forward-looking Statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results to differ from those anticipated, estimated or intended.
Forward-looking statements involve significant risk, uncertainties and assumptions. Many factors could cause actual results, performance or achievements to differ materially from the results discussed or implied in the forward-looking statements. These factors should be considered carefully and readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management believes to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure readers that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements contained herein are made as of the date hereof and the Company disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or results or otherwise, except where required by law. There can be no assurance that these forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

THE NEO STOCK EXCHANGE DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/7e3df276-27d5-47c8-90a4-d2556f360744

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/53f75ef2-5253-4cfa-b4e1-d01198cb26a1

August 1, 2022

Diabsolut Acquires Emelar Consulting Group, a Full-Service Salesforce Consulting Firm With Expertise That Includes Manufacturing and Revenue Management

Both firms gain added proficiency in Salesforce Field Service, Revenue Cloud, CPQ, and Billing.

Diabsolut Acquires Emelar Consulting Group

MONTREAL, Aug. 01, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Salesforce expert and innovative cloud solution provider Diabsolut announced that they have acquired Emelar Consulting Group. Emelar is a Salesforce consulting partner specializing in CPQ and Salesforce Field Service, who is known for their success in assisting manufacturing organizations address business concerns.

The overall goal of the acquisition was to increase the amount of experience, services, benefits, and value delivered to both Diabsolut and Emelar’s clients.

“As a close-knit organization that strives to provide exceptional value and returns for our clients, we are delighted to join forces with a like-minded organization in Diabsolut,” said Jesse Theiler, founder and CEO of Emelar.

“Our combined commitment to client empowerment will provide clients with even deeper Salesforce expertise, particularly Salesforce Field Service, additional experience and capabilities with enterprise clients, and the ability to provide FinancialForce solutions across new verticals,” Mr. Theiler stated, “We’re eager to bring our CPQ expertise and deep manufacturing sector experience to Diabsolut.”

On continuing Emelar’s philanthropy post-acquisition, Mr. Theiler said, “I’m excited about our cultural alignment and, importantly, we’ve gained a great partner in our ongoing mission to provide support for young adults with autism and raising autism awareness. This is a perfect situation for our clients, partners and staff alike.”

After the acquisition of Foundry52 in 2021, the acquisition of Emelar will further cement Diabsolut’s reputation as Field Service and Revenue Cloud experts, while expanding the capabilities they offer for manufacturing organizations.

“We are elated to have found an organization like Emelar, who is so closely aligned with our culture and dedication for delivering customer success,” said Elie Hossari, President of Diabsolut. “Jesse’s mission for Emelar, his community outreach, Emelar’s passion for helping clients reach their goals in the best way possible — Emelar and Diabsolut’s values come from the same playbook, and we’re looking forward to a great future together.”

Mr. Hossari continued, “We’re also excited to put Emelar’s manufacturing experience together with our enterprise experience, to continue to grow our capabilities in the Manufacturing, Automotive and Energy segment, and add a pool of high-quality senior technical resources with specialties in Manufacturing, Revenue Cloud, CPQ, and Billing. Ultimately, we are increasing short- and long-term benefits for both current and future clients.”

Our services and combined expertise:

Implementations and Integrations
Advisory and Managed Services
Development and Support
Change Management & Training
Talent Management
Field Service and Asset Management
CPQ, Billing and Revenue
CRM / Customer 360 Platform / Communities
Higher Education and Not for Profit
FinancialForce ERP

ABOUT Emelar Consulting Group

Emelar Consulting Group is a Salesforce consulting partner specializing in CPQ and Salesforce Field Service, which helps organizations significantly improve performance, efficiencies, and bottom-line results through the Salesforce platform. We have proven successes in supporting manufacturing organizations of all sizes to solve big business problems.

ABOUT Diabsolut

Diabsolut is a Salesforce Summit Consulting Partner and has been a FinancialForce partner since 2014. We have nearly 20 years of experience implementing Salesforce, Field Service, Revenue, and Higher Education solutions throughout North America. Our team of experts is uniquely positioned to identify and resolve the challenges that many organizations face, with rapid time to value results no matter where they are in their transformation journey.

Media Contact Info:

Andy Prince

Chief Innovation Officer, Diabsolut Inc.

T: 514-461-3314 x140 | E: aprince@diabsolut.com

Announcement welcoming the Emelar Consulting Group to the Diabsolut family.

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Diabsolut Acquires Emelar Consulting Group

August 1, 2022

N2Growth Rapidly Expanding Latin America Search Operations, Adding New Partner in Brazil

Firm Appoints Luiz Gustavo Aranha, CEO of RSG Brasil Headhunters, as Partner.

N2Growth Logo

N2Growth Logo

PHILADELPHIA, Aug. 01, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — N2Growth Inc., a global leadership consulting and executive search firm, announced today its expansion to Brazil with the appointment of Luiz Gustavo Aranha as Partner. Luiz will be responsible for all operations in Brazil and neighboring countries and will report directly to Kelli Vukelic, CEO at N2Growth.

“Supporting our expansion into Latin America, particularly in Brazil, is a crucial pillar in our goal to better serve clients worldwide, especially in Central and South America. Luiz brings an exceptional track record of superior client delivery and experience in the financial services market, construction and engineering sector, and technology, mining, and consumer goods industries. We are excited to see further growth under his leadership,” said Ms. Vukelic.

The firm’s firm’s newest location in São Paulo, Brazil is led by Mr. Aranha, founder & CEO of RSG Brasil. He brings over 15 years of professional experience in the recruitment of mid-to-senior level executives in Brazil and across Latin America. He specializes in complex and strategic roles for clients who seek quality, speed, and confidentiality in finding the best executive leaders.

Mr. Aranha added, “This partnership with N2Growth shows confidence in the market and a great opportunity to improve the recruitment and selection of executives in a market with few competitors that demand a service of excellence and development of executives in companies.”

Founded in 2007, RSG Brasil Headhunters is a recruitment and leadership advisory firm in São Paulo, Brazil, that Mr. Aranha founded. The firm made a name for itself by supporting organizations in evaluating talent and preparing businesses for the future of leadership, working with prominent brands, such as Paynet, Dexco, Sacyr Constructions, and Grupo Carrefour. RSG Brasil engages in a wide range of activities in the market, filling vacancies in various sectors of the economy.

“The executive search segment has been operating in the same way for years, and changes are overdue to respond more accurately and quickly to the needs of our clients. N2Growth brings an innovative and proven solution to Latin American markets. Unsurprisingly, Forbes ranks N2Growth as one of America’s Best Executive Recruiting Firms. This partnership brings the Brazilian market a global excellence operation with exclusive methodology and tools. With N2Growth as a partner, we will have all the resources needed to recruit the best and develop outstanding leaders,” said Mr. Aranha.

N2Growth’s partnership with Mr. Aranha solidifies the firm’s commitment to building and establishing permanent operations throughout Latin America and supporting our global network of premiere talent through retained search engagements, executive coaching, and leadership assessments.

About N2Growth

N2Growth is a global leadership consulting and executive search firm, consistently ranked in the Top 10 Best Executive Recruiting Firms by Forbes and serves more than 50 markets across the Americas, EMEA, and APAC.

Media Inquiries:

Dan Evans

CMO, N2Growth

press@n2growth.com

Related Images

Image 1: N2Growth Logo

N2Growth Executive Search

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N2Growth Logo

August 1, 2022

AOP Health Starts Research for Leukemia Treatment

AOP Health signed an agreement with Leukos Biotech for the further development of a newly discovered chemical substance. With this agreement AOP Health expands the hemato-oncology research area even further and provides additional treatment options for certain leukemia patients in the longer term.

Agnes Kohl, Chief Business Officer, AOP Orphan Pharmaceuticals GmbH, Member of the AOP Health Group

Photo credit: Studio Koekart: Natascha Unkart & Isabelle Köhler

VIENNA, Austria, Aug. 01, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The AOP Health Group (AOP Health) is a European pioneer for integrated therapies for rare diseases and in critical care headquartered in Vienna, Austria. The company focuses on research, development and global sales of innovative treatment solutions and specializes in therapies for rare diseases and intensive care. In early July, AOP Health signed an agreement with Leukos Biotech, a spin-off company founded by the Barcelona-based Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute. The agreement signed by AOP Health covers the option for developments of the newly discovered chemical substance within any treatable indication, not limited to oncological or rare diseases.

Luis Ruiz-Avila, Chief Executive Officer Leukos Biotech

Agreement sets basis for new areas of therapy

At first, AOP Health will focus on the development of treatment options for Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) and Myelodysplastic Syndrome (MDS). Both are special disease types of leukemia that often start in the bone marrow. Agnes Kohl, Chief Business Officer of AOP Orphan Pharmaceuticals GmbH, Member of the AOP Health Group explains: “Based on positive data, our plan is to expand the development for further orphan indications even outside of AML and MDS at a later stage. With this agreement, we may be able to broaden the portfolio within our therapeutic areas offering even more treatment options for patients.”

Development in cooperation with Leukos

As AOP Health focuses on rare, hemato-oncological cancers and has many years of experience in the development and commercialization of hemato-oncological treatments, the company will drive the further development of the substance in cooperation with Leukos based on a new mode of action. This could potentially turn into a milestone in the treatment of many blood cancer and other cancer patients. Luis Ruiz-Avila, Chief Executive Officer of Leukos Biotech: “We focus on developing new treatments for a wide variety of tumors. We were born to transform excellent science from the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute into valuable products for cancer patients in need, and this agreement is a very significant step in that direction. We are convinced that AOP Health is the right partner to turn this promising, novel mechanism of action into a clinical reality for the benefit of patients in a wide variety of unmet medical needs”.

About AOP Health

The AOP Health Group incorporates several companies including AOP Orphan Pharmaceuticals GmbH with its seat in Vienna, Austria (“AOP Health”). The AOP Health Group is the European pioneer for integrated therapies for rare diseases and in critical care. Over the past 25 years, the Group has become an established provider of integrated therapy solutions operating from its headquarters in Vienna, its subsidiaries and representative offices throughout Europe and the Middle East, as well as through partners worldwide. This development has been made possible by a continually high level of investment in research and development on the one hand and a highly consistent and pragmatic orientation towards the needs of all its stakeholders on the other – especially the patients and their families as well as also the healthcare professionals treating them.

About Leukos

Leukos Biotech, SL (Leukos) is a spin-off company from the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute incorporated in Barcelona in 2015. The company is developing new treatments and diagnostic tools for a wide variety of tumors targeting the serotonin receptor HTR1B, which antitumoral potential was first described and patented by Leukos’ founder Dr. Ruth Risueño in her laboratory at the Josep Carreras Research Institute. Leukos’ main financial support is from private and institutional investors. The main shareholders are Inveready, CDTI Innvierte and the Josep Carreras Foundation. Besides investors’ support, Leukos has received non-dilutive grants and loans from the Catalan Government, the Spanish Government and the European Union in various programs.

About the Josep Carreras Foundation

The Josep Carreras Leukaemia Foundation was established in 1988 with the intention of contributing to finding a definitive cure for this disease. Its efforts are concentrated on four basic areas: administering the Spanish Bone Marrow Donor Registry (REDMO), scientific research, carried out by the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, patient guidance through an online patient consultation channel, and reception apartments for patients who need to undergo treatment and have to spend a long time far from home.

About the Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute

The Josep Carreras Leukaemia Research Institute, a public centre pertaining to the Generalitat de Catalunya’s CERCA network, was established in 2010 with the aim of furthering biomedical research and personalised medicine in the field of leukaemia and other onco-hematological diseases. It is the first research centre in Europe exclusively focussed on leukaemia and malignant blood diseases, and one of the very few in the world. The Josep Carreras Institutes has three coordinated but independent scientific campuses: University of Barcelona Hospital Clínic Campus, The Catalan Institute of Oncology/Germans Trias i Pujol Campus, and the Sant Pau – Autonomous University of Barcelona (UAB) Campus

About Inveready

Inveready is a leading alternative asset manager in Spain – investing in early-stage VC, growth VC, venture debt, strategic equity in listed companies, infrastructure and private equity – providing financing solutions to companies throughout their life-cycle. Founded in 2008, Inveready counts on 200 active companies, and more than €1bn of assets under management. Inveready has been investing in companies in the Life Sciences sector since 2008. Notable investments in this vertical are Atrys Health (listed on the Spanish market), EDESA Biotech (listed on Nasdaq), AVX Pharma (sold to Aerie Biotech) and PaloBiofarma (licensing agreement with Novartis). Inveready is headquartered in San Sebastian, and has other offices in Barcelona and Madrid. It has been recognized on multiple occasions by ASCRI and Preqin for the return on its funds and transactions (For more information, visit www.inveready.com).

Mag Nina Roth, MAS
nina.roth@aop-health.com

AOP Health
Needs. Science. Trust.

AOP Orphan Pharmaceuticals GmbH
Member of the AOP Health Group

Leopold-Ungar-Platz 2, 1190 Vienna, Austria
aop-health.com

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/f096650f-dbfc-4165-854b-63345d24a713

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/9aa481fe-91da-4609-8570-2e9a1012c392

August 1, 2022

Zenas BioPharma Obtains IND Approval in China for Phase 1/2 Study of ZB001 for the Treatment of Thyroid Eye Disease

WALTHAM, Mass and SHANGHAI, China, July 31, 2022 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Zenas BioPharma, a global biopharmaceutical company committed to becoming a leader in the development and commercialization of immune-based therapies for patients in need around the world, announced that it has received approval of its Investigational New Drug (IND) application from the National Medical Products Administration (NMPA) of China for the initiation of a Phase 1/2 clinical study of ZB001 for the treatment of Thyroid Eye Disease (TED). The main objective of the Phase 1/2 is to evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and preliminary efficacy of ZB001.

TED is a debilitating vison-threatening autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and fibrosis within the orbit of the eye. With no approved therapies for TED patients in China, treatment options are limited and often involve high doses of steroids associated with serious side effects or surgical intervention. ZB001 is a differentiated humanized monoclonal antibody targeting insulin-like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF-1R) intended for the treatment of TED.

“We are proud that the IND application for ZB001 was approved by the NMPA about two months following its submission, highlighting our team’s unique ability to efficiently execute on our development programs,” said Hua Mu, MD, PhD, Chief Executive Officer at Zenas. “We are excited to work with leading clinical experts in China to accelerate the development of ZB001 to address the significant unmet clinical need in thyroid eye disease.”

Zenas BioPharma licensed the exclusive rights to develop, manufacture and commercialize ZB001 (Viridian VRDN-001) and other compounds targeting IGF-1R in non-oncology indications in the greater China area from Viridian Therapeutics, Inc. (Viridian) in October 2020. After submitting an IND for VRDN-001 to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in October 2021, Viridian initiated a Phase 1/2 clinical trial in December 2021 to evaluate proof of concept in TED patients in North America and released encouraging interim healthy volunteer data suggesting robust activity with excellent safety and tolerability of the candidate product.

About Zenas BioPharma

Zenas BioPharma is a global biopharmaceutical company based in the USA and China committed to becoming a leader in the development and commercialization of immune-based therapies for patients in the US, China and around the world. Zenas is rapidly advancing a deep pipeline of innovative therapeutics that continues to grow through our successful business development strategy. Our experienced leadership team and network of business partners drive operational excellence to deliver potentially transformative therapies to improve the lives of those facing autoimmune and rare diseases. For more information about Zenas BioPharma, please visit www.zenasbio.com and follow us on Twitter at @ZenasBioPharma and LinkedIn.

Investor and Media Contact:
Joe Farmer
Zenas BioPharma
IR@zenasbio.com

August 1, 2022

Registration for ‘Sijil Perdagangan Brunei’ Examination Is Open

Registration for Sijil Perdagangan Brunei or Brunei Business Certificate, SPB Examination for November 2022 is now open. The Examinations Department, Ministry of Education informed that the examination is open to candidates who have been registered under the Advanced Education Division, BPL and private candidates.

Registration forms can be obtained from the Examinations Department, Ministry of Education during office hours. The Examinations Department will only accept completed application forms and payment every Monday until Thursday from 8 to 11 in the morning and 1:30 to 3 in the afternoon, while on Saturday, from 8 until 10 in the morning. The submission date for completed forms is no later than 22 September 2022.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

August 1, 2022

Festive Stage

Festive stage events held in conjunction with His Majesty's 76th Birthday Celebration lowered its curtain last night.

The festive stage in Belait District featured religious performances organised by the Mukim Penghulu, Village Head and Longhouse Chief Body, PEKERUPA. Present was Awang Mohamad Yassin bin Haji Ahmed, Acting Belait District Officer.

The Hijrah Night performance conducted by Nur Islam F-M enlivened the festive stage in Temburong District. In attendance was Awang Haji Azman bin Haji Abdul Rahim, Acting Director of Radio Televisyen Brunei. The event included the reading of Sayyidul Istighfar and Selawat Tafrijiyyah, tazkirah, Tausyeh performance and quiz.

Meanwhile in the capital, the 'Penggiat Kesenian Syiar Islam' programme was held, which included Al-Quran reading with tarannum by Abdul Muin bin Haji Abdul Hamid, champion Qari of the 2019 National Youth Musabaqah, and Dayangku Nurul Sakinah Adawiyah Pengiran Ainolazahar, second runner up of the 2020 National Youth Musabaqah Tilawatil Quran Belia.

The festive stage in Tutong District featured religious performances organised by Tutong District Mosque Muslimah. Among the performances include Selawat Tafrijiyah, Tadabbur Al-Quran and nasyid.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

August 1, 2022

Reopening Of Land Border

The land borders are fully opened starting yesterday after more than 2 years of closure following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The public who wish to travel overseas are encouraged to be fully vaccinated and buy insurance protection for COVID-19. During the initial stage of the border opening, operating hours for all land control posts is from 6 in the morning to 6 in the afternoon daily. RTB crews took a closer look at several land control posts in the country.

The Sungai Tujuh Control Post observed very light traffic. Two vehicles inspection counters were opened at the entry and exit areas. The Royal Customs and Excise Department and Department of Immigration and National Registration are ready to open additional counters, depending on the needs and current situations.

Meanwhile, at Kuala Lurah Control Post, several relevant agencies are seen conducting monitoring to ensure the entry and exit process runs smoothly by prioritising safety factors. The public is urged to register and apply for the Exit and Entry System and to pay the Service Charge of 3 dollars per person for a one-way trip, one day before travelling.

The Labu Control Post in Temburong District is operating as usual with a number of Brunei vehicles exiting the country. Further information on the border reopening is available at www.pmo.gov.bn/travelportal or contact hotline 120 or email to travel application at jpm.gov.bn.

Source: Radio Television Brunei

August 1, 2022

Myanmar, South China Sea to Divide, Dominate ASEAN Summit

Foreign Ministers from the 10-member Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) will try and thrash out their differences, ranging from the conflict in Myanmar, to the disputed South China Sea, to admitting East Timor to the bloc, when they meet in Phnom Penh, Cambodia this week.

Bradley Murg, a senior adviser to the Cambodian Institute for Cooperation and Peace said the Philippines is expected to raise the South China Sea issue under new President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. who is reasserting Manila’s 2016 arbitration award over China at The Hague. That ruling invalidated Beijing’s territorial claims in the waterway.

Ten years ago, when Phnom Penh last held the chair, foreign ministers failed to issue a joint communique for the first time in ASEAN’s 45-year history after Cambodia objected to mentioning China and its confrontations with the Philippines and Vietnam in the South China Sea.

It was considered a major diplomatic blunder for the host nation and divisions have emerged ever since with Cambodia, a major benefactor of Beijing’s largesse, often seen by observers as a Chinese proxy within the group.

“This is obviously something that Cambodia’s going to be concerned about in light of the fact that Cambodia’s last chairmanship ended with significant acrimony in light of the inability to reach an agreement,” Murg said.

Most ASEAN countries want a united front on a code of conduct for the South China Sea, but critics claim Beijing, which wants to handle negotiations on a country-by-country basis, has used Cambodia to thwart progress on an agreement and to block diplomatic opposition to its maritime claims.

“This is not the topic that Cambodia really wants to be discussing at this ASEAN summit but if the Philippines decides to move forward, and it appears that it’s willing to do so, that could very much dominate the week,” Murg added.

Analysts also said efforts by Prime Minister Hun Sen, as this year’s Chair, to normalize ties between ASEAN and the Myanmar junta had also heightened divisions, made all the worse by last week’s execution of four democracy advocates.

Monday the Myanmar military extended its state of emergency by six months saying promised elections could only take place once a “stable and peaceful” environment had been restored.

“The Myanmar question’s going to continue being on the table, despite Cambodia’s best efforts it appears that the regime continues to consolidate, and that the ASEAN approach alone is simply not going to be sufficient,” Murg said.

He said there was an increased desire by most ASEAN states for a more global approach to Myanmar and this ASEAN meeting would enable them to explore that, but the divisions are stark.

Analysts have also said a troika has emerged with Indonesia, Malaysia and Brunei, who share religious sympathies with Myanmar’s Muslim Rohingya, opposed to bringing the junta back into the group after it was banned in response to the February 2021 coup.

ASEAN Parliamentarians for Human Rights has accused Thailand, Cambodia and Laos of aiding the junta and on Monday the group urged all ASEAN states to recognize the National Unity Government of Myanmar, established by supporters of the ousted leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken added his voice saying he was disappointed with ASEAN for failing to apply any pressure on the junta and its leader, Min Aung Hlaing.

“I think it’s unfortunately safe to say that we’ve seen no positive movement,” Blinken told a news conference in Bangkok. “On the contrary, we continue to see the repression of the Burmese people who continue to see violence perpetrated by the regime.”

Ten additional countries will attend the summit as dialogue partners, including Australia, Japan, India, South Korea. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Blinken will also attend but the U.S. State department has said the pair are not scheduled to meet.

“There are obviously many major issues to be dealt with, including Myanmar and a potential showdown between foreign minister Lavrov from Russia and Antony Blinken,” said David Totten, managing director of Emerging Markets Consulting in Phnom Penh.

“That will be an attention grabber, but I also hope they move on the economies,” he said.

ASEAN economies were devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and global inflation, spurred in part by Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, has sharply reduced purchasing power and priced essential items like rice beyond ordinary household budgets.

The number of Southeast Asians living in extreme poverty — defined as less than $1.90 a day — had eased before COVID-19 erupted, falling to 14.9 million in 2019, from 21.2 million people in 2017.

But the Asian Development Bank says the pandemic has pushed nearly five million people back into extreme poverty.

“Poverty is still a big problem in Southeast Asia and people are struggling. The cost of fuel has skyrocketed as has the price of getting goods to market,” Totten said. “Industries like tourism still haven’t recovered and foreign investment needs to make a return to the region.”

Also on the agenda is East Timor, also known as Timor Leste, which has lobbied hard to become the 11th member of the group and has the support of nearly all member states.

Sources say there were two concerns about Dili’s application; its ability to fund the logistics required as an ASEAN member and its close relationship with Beijing.

“There is a fear that Timor Leste will become another voice for China within ASEAN and most of the members don’t want that. Those objections are being led by Singapore,” an analyst close to the Timorese camp said. “China has enough access through Cambodia.”

Source: Voice of America