Latest news with #Lew
The Sun
6 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Taobao Malaysia launches Bahasa Melayu interface as Grand 618 Sale kicks off with up to 50% discounts
TAOBAO Malaysia has rolled out its most significant platform update yet, launching a comprehensive Bahasa Malaysia interface while simultaneously kicking off its highly anticipated 618 Mid-Year Sale with substantial discounts and exclusive perks for Malaysian shoppers. The popular e-commerce platform announced yesterday that users can now navigate the app in three languages - Bahasa Melayu, English, and Chinese - marking a pivotal moment in the company's localisation efforts for the Malaysian market. 'We're excited to kick off this year's 618 Mid-Year Sale with greater momentum and purpose,' said Jess Lew, Country Head of Taobao Malaysia. 'Every upgrade is designed to offer Malaysians a smoother, safer, and more rewarding online shopping experience.' New features transform shopping experience Beyond language accessibility, Taobao has introduced several AI-powered features designed to enhance user engagement. The new Image Search function allows shoppers to photograph items and find similar products using artificial intelligence recognition technology. A new Coins Cashback system rewards daily check-ins and purchases from selected sellers, while the Exclusive New User Perk offers first-time shoppers deals starting from as low as RMB 1 (approximately RM0.62). Major sale offers substantial savings The 618 Mid-Year Sale, running from May 28 at 8pm until June 20 at 11.30pm, features an extensive range of promotional offers: - Free sea shipping for orders exceeding ¥199 (RM116) with additional cashback rewards - Partnership with RHB Bank offering chances to win air tickets to Seoul - Instant payment discounts up to RM68 - Promotional codes providing up to 50% off selected items - Daily flash sales with discounts reaching 15% across various product categories Supporting local entrepreneurship Taobao Malaysia's impact extends beyond consumer shopping, having fostered local entrepreneurship through strategic partnerships. Between 2020 and 2022, the platform collaborated with state governments and training institutions to launch the LiveNOW livestream program, successfully training over 500 local digital entrepreneurs and livestreamers. The initiative specifically targeted low-income groups, providing new opportunities in Malaysia's expanding digital economy. Enhanced logistics and product range The platform has significantly improved its logistics capabilities, now offering air shipping options that deliver products within five working days. The company has also expanded its fashion and home furniture categories while maintaining competitive pricing. 'We remain deeply committed to supporting our local community, with a strong emphasis on strengthening Malaysia's e-commerce ecosystem,' Lew added, highlighting the company's focus on making online shopping more efficient and accessible for Malaysian consumers. The Taobao app is available for free download on both Apple App Store and Google Play, with updates available on the company's Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok channels.
The Sun
6 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Taobao Malaysia: New Bahasa Interface + 618 Sale 50% Off
TAOBAO Malaysia has rolled out its most significant platform update yet, launching a comprehensive Bahasa Malaysia interface while simultaneously kicking off its highly anticipated 618 Mid-Year Sale with substantial discounts and exclusive perks for Malaysian shoppers. The popular e-commerce platform announced yesterday that users can now navigate the app in three languages - Bahasa Melayu, English, and Chinese - marking a pivotal moment in the company's localisation efforts for the Malaysian market. 'We're excited to kick off this year's 618 Mid-Year Sale with greater momentum and purpose,' said Jess Lew, Country Head of Taobao Malaysia. 'Every upgrade is designed to offer Malaysians a smoother, safer, and more rewarding online shopping experience.' New features transform shopping experience Beyond language accessibility, Taobao has introduced several AI-powered features designed to enhance user engagement. The new Image Search function allows shoppers to photograph items and find similar products using artificial intelligence recognition technology. A new Coins Cashback system rewards daily check-ins and purchases from selected sellers, while the Exclusive New User Perk offers first-time shoppers deals starting from as low as RMB 1 (approximately RM0.62). Major sale offers substantial savings The 618 Mid-Year Sale, running from May 28 at 8pm until June 20 at 11.30pm, features an extensive range of promotional offers: - Free sea shipping for orders exceeding ¥199 (RM116) with additional cashback rewards - Partnership with RHB Bank offering chances to win air tickets to Seoul - Instant payment discounts up to RM68 - Promotional codes providing up to 50% off selected items - Daily flash sales with discounts reaching 15% across various product categories Supporting local entrepreneurship Taobao Malaysia's impact extends beyond consumer shopping, having fostered local entrepreneurship through strategic partnerships. Between 2020 and 2022, the platform collaborated with state governments and training institutions to launch the LiveNOW livestream program, successfully training over 500 local digital entrepreneurs and livestreamers. The initiative specifically targeted low-income groups, providing new opportunities in Malaysia's expanding digital economy. Enhanced logistics and product range The platform has significantly improved its logistics capabilities, now offering air shipping options that deliver products within five working days. The company has also expanded its fashion and home furniture categories while maintaining competitive pricing. 'We remain deeply committed to supporting our local community, with a strong emphasis on strengthening Malaysia's e-commerce ecosystem,' Lew added, highlighting the company's focus on making online shopping more efficient and accessible for Malaysian consumers. The Taobao app is available for free download on both Apple App Store and Google Play, with updates available on the company's Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok channels. *Terms and conditions apply for all promotional offers. Details available in the Taobao app.*
Business Wire
21-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Aquila Air Capital Names Gary Lew Chief Financial Officer
NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Aquila Air Capital ('Aquila'), a leading engine lessor backed by funds managed by New York-based global alternative asset manager Wafra, announced the appointment of Gary Lew as Chief Financial Officer. With his proven expertise in finance and capital markets, coupled with an extensive industry background, Gary will significantly enhance our leadership team. Bringing over twenty-five years of industry experience focused on investment strategy, capital markets, corporate finance, and asset management to his new role, Lew will lead the establishment of Aquila's financial organization and oversee all aspects of the company's corporate development, partnerships, strategic financing initiatives, and capital markets activity. 'With his proven expertise in finance and capital markets, coupled with an extensive industry background, Gary will significantly enhance our leadership team. This positions Aquila to lead confidently through our next chapter as a trusted and strategic provider of thrust for the industry,' says Al Wood, Chief Executive Officer of Aquila Air Capital. Lew joins Aquila after founding Capitola Partners, which executed major multi-year engagements with a global lessor, an asset trading and management company, two major U.S.-based family offices, and an Ireland-based corporate services provider. Lew brings decades of experience, perspective, and deep industry relationships solidified at Capitola Partners and Vx Capital Partners as an investor, lessor, asset manager, and strategic advisor. Lew also serves as an Independent Director for two major ABS issuances and was an adjunct lecturer at St. Mary's College and UC Davis Graduate School of Management. 'I am excited and energized to join the proven Aquila platform to help Al and a very strong team to drive the next stage of growth. The investment thesis of Aquila, together with the momentum and support of a strategically-aligned capital partner in Wafra, provides a timely opportunity to scale and execute our financial initiatives to support our core investment objectives,' says Gary Lew, Chief Financial Officer of Aquila Air Capital. Prior to Capitola Partners, Lew was part of the founding team at Vx Capital Partners, sourcing and structuring equity and debt capital to support portfolio transactions, the VXF investment fund, and the CARGO 2018-1 ABS, while leading all finance, treasury, administration and portfolio management functions. Prior to that, he held positions at GATX Capital, Merrill Lynch, and the California Public Employees Retirement System, and appointments in both the Governor's Office and U.S. Senate. Gary holds a B.A. degree from the University of California Los Angeles and an M.B.A. degree from the University of California Davis. About Aquila Air Capital Founded in 2021, Aquila Air Capital ('Aquila') is a specialty finance platform focused on providing aviation asset financing, as well as purchasing and leasing aircraft and engines. Backed by funds managed by Wafra Inc., a New York-based, global alternative asset manager, and led by a management team with decades of experience in the aerospace and aviation industries, Aquila is a trusted partner to all players in the value chain, from buyers and sellers of assets to operators in need of creative and timely solutions for their critical business needs.
The Star
21-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Sun Life's InsureLit survey debunks myths of legacy planning for retirement
RETIREMENT is often seen as the ultimate achievement in life—a hard-earned reward after years of dedication to work. However, the lack of preparation and 'tidak apa' attitude towards retirement planning among Malaysians is a growing concern. While the Employees Provident Fund (EPF) serves as the primary retirement savings for many, it may fall short, especially amid rising inflation and healthcare costs. And this just scratches the surface, as there are still other aspects to consider when planning retirement. Planning your future extends beyond retirement An overlooked element of retirement planning is family legacy planning. This aspect ensures hard-earned assets, cherished possessions and important family traditions are preserved and passed down to your loved ones. Legacy planning isn't just about distributing assets, but a proactive and deliberate process of preparing and transferring your wealth, values and life lessons to future generations, providing a financial safety net for your family, ensuring their security and well-being. Essentially, effective retirement planning directly impacts what you will have available to leave as a legacy, making it less likely that you will deplete your assets during your lifetime, preserving more for your beneficiaries. '71% of Malaysians with a legacy plan rely on insurance and takaful, highlighting the trust in these solutions to protect their loved ones' future,' said Lew. A silent crisis The Insure or Unsure Insurance Literacy Survey, recently conducted by insurance and takaful provider Sun Life Malaysia, found that 65% of Malaysians recognise the importance of legacy planning, but only 15% have a plan in place. The survey was conducted among 1,040 citizens across different income brackets and geographical locations, to gauge their attitude, behaviour and understanding of insurance and takaful knowledge, as well as legacy planning preparedness. Among the 65% who recognise the need for legacy planning, 60% are married, 34% are single and 6% are divorced, widowed or separated. 'This second edition of the survey takes a more profound look at how we can empower Malaysians to achieve long-term financial security, extending beyond their retirement years to secure the financial future of their families,' said Sun Life Malaysia president and country head Raymond Lew. 'Retirement planning is not just about securing your own financial future—it's about ensuring the well-being and financial stability of your loved ones for generations to come. 'The statistic that 85% of Malaysians lack a legacy plan isn't just a number; it is a call to action to broaden our understanding of retirement planning to include the profound impact of a well-structured legacy.' The survey further disclosed that 39% of respondents claim they are unsure how to begin, highlighting a lack of accessible resources and guidance. Meanwhile, 54% of those who initiated legacy planning sought professional advice, showcasing the complexity and importance of this process. Why is proactive planning important? Building a secure retirement isn't just about our own well-being; it's also about laying the foundation for our loved ones' financial future. Sun Life Malaysia's survey revealed that the most common barrier to legacy planning is that immediate needs often overshadow long-term planning, especially among single individuals and childless couples. Other obstacles included financial constraints (41%), lack of knowledge (39%) and competing financial goals (35%). Proactive planners choose insurance/takaful as the key legacy planning tool The survey results also highlighted a clear trend among proactive legacy planners—71% of this group reported utilising insurance or takaful products, followed by trust funds (54%) and wills (44%) to secure their legacy. This is where Sun Life Malaysia steps in, as the company's value proposition is centred around empowering Malaysians to plan, build and protect their legacy through a wide range of tools, including insurance and takaful plans. 'At Sun Life Malaysia, we are committed to empowering Malaysians to take a more proactive approach to their retirement and legacy planning so that they can protect the financial future of their families,' said Lew. For example, Sun Life Malaysia offers free digital resources on its website, including legacy and retirement planning tools, empowering Malaysians to make informed decisions. For those who like a face-to-face chat, Sun Life Malaysia's advisors are available to help you explore legacy planning. These professionals can simplify the process and get the ball rolling for you. Think of it this way: a solid retirement plan isn't just about your own future—it's the bedrock for building a meaningful family legacy. By weaving legacy considerations into your retirement planning from the start, you are not only securing your own comfort but also paving the way for your loved ones' financial well-being for years to come. For additional details on the InsureLit campaign, click here. For more information, visit or speak to their trusted advisors at
Otago Daily Times
14-05-2025
- Business
- Otago Daily Times
Executive defends consultant use
West Coast Regional Council chief executive Darryl Lew is defending the council's use of consultancy firms for resource consents, while also hitting back at criticisms made from Cr Allan Birchfield. Cr Birchfield — a Greymouth goldminer and former regional council chairman — claimed that the council's consents and compliance team had grown from four in his day to 13, yet the council was still using North Island consultancy firms. Consultants were delaying and declining gold mining water consents and asking "stupid" questions as they were unfamiliar with the industry and the West Coast, Cr Birchfield claimed. But Mr Lew said the regional council employed seven full-time compliance or consents officers, and stood by the integrity of its resource consent process and the professionalism of its staff and contracted consultants. "The most recent quarterly report to council presented yesterday shows all 27 resource consents issued during that quarter were processed within the statutory timeframe permitted." The council employed consultancies at times to help with resource consent work, especially when there was an increased workload or reduced in-house capacity, Mr Lew said. That was the case now, with several notified applications on the books, including the Mananui Mineral Sands Mining consent. "When consents officers are managing multiple large-scale applications progressing to hearings, they require extensive assessment and often occupy most of an officer's workload." Mr Birchfield claimed that Wellington consultants had asked questions a competent local consents officer would not have. Mr Lew said the consulting firms all had to follow the same statutory process under the RMA and a consent authority had to have enough information to make a fully informed decision. "Consultants are expected, as are council consents officers, to seek further information where needed, including site visits, local mapping, or input from regional staff to ensure the specific context of an application is understood." The costs fell on the person applying for the consent, whether the work was done in-house or by a consultant. The council had an open door for applicants and the agents submitting applications on their behalf and was happy to speak to them directly, Mr Lew said. Cr Birchfield also claimed that council compliance staff had been taking police escorts on site visits recently and turning up without notice after heavy rain had muddied creeks. Mr Lew said staff had not taken police escorts to inspect mines. It was a requirement of resource consents for mining operations to control water during rainfall events, he said. • LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air. By Lois Williams
