Latest news with #Wa
South China Morning Post
28-05-2025
- Health
- South China Morning Post
Thai river turns orange as dangerous toxins from Myanmar mines flush downstream
Dangerous levels of arsenic in a northern Thai river contaminated by chemicals used in mines across the border in Myanmar risk unleashing an unprecedented ecological disaster on the kingdom's waterways, environmentalists have warned, as images of the orange-yellow waters go viral. Advertisement Bangkok is seeking renewed talks with Myanmar's junta to stop the toxic sediment flowing downstream into the Kok River, which runs from Shan State, in Myanmar through Thailand's border province of Chiang Rai. But the urgency of the health crisis for riverside communities – who have been warned not to wash, drink or eat fish from the contaminated waterway they depend on – is compounded by the fact that the mines are located in territory controlled by the Wa, an ethnic armed group notorious for drug production, unchecked resource extraction and opaque business ties to China. Thai villagers started to notice the discolouration of the water in March. Fishermen on the Chiang Saen river. Photo: Earth Thailand However, satellite imagery suggests the contamination began as early as last September, when large upstream forest areas in Myanmar were cleared for mining – initially thought to be for gold, but now suspected to involve rare earths, based on the volume of chemical effluent released into the river.
The Star
25-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Vietnamese nationals get help with spouse visas
Erasing language barriers: (Seated, second from left to right) Wa, Dr Mah and Truong showing copies of the bilingual guideline during a press conference at Wisma Perak MCA, Ipoh. IPOH: Perak MCA Youth has introduced a bilingual guideline to assist Vietnamese nationals married to Malaysians in applying for a spouse visa. Perak MCA Youth chief Daniel Wa said the initiative followed numerous complaints from both locals and their Vietnamese spouses about the complex application process. 'The Malaysia-Vietnam Friendship Association (MVFA) has also faced such issues, and it's challenging to provide individual guidance each time,' he told a press conference at Wisma MCA Perak on Friday. 'To address this, we have created a dual-language guideline in Vietnamese and Bahasa Malaysia to make it more accessible.' Wa highlighted that many Vietnamese applicants face issues such as exorbitant fees, and reliance on middlemen or websites to get the visas. 'Some paid up to RM8,000 and still didn't receive the correct visa, while others resorted to illegal means,' he said, adding that the guideline aims to simplify the process for them. About 1,000 copies have been printed and are available for RM20 each at Wisma MCA Perak, the Kampar MCA office and the Shake & Bake Cafe in Ipoh. MCA deputy president Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon praised Wa and Perak MVFA chairman Kelly Truong for their efforts. The book, he said, is not only a guide on visa procedures but also includes cultural insights and religious customs of Malaysia's three major ethnic groups. Dr Mah added that Wa is considering similar guides for other nationalities, depending on demand. 'There is a significant number of Vietnamese women married to Malaysians, especially in the Kinta Valley,' said Dr Mah, who is also Perak MCA chairman. 'Adjusting to a new country can be stressful, especially when dealing with socio-economic and family challenges.' Truong herself faced similar difficulties when she got married in Malaysia, and now helps by teaching Bahasa Malaysia to fellow Vietnamese nationals. 'In some unfortunate cases, those unable to cope ended up leaving the country, which can lead to further social issues,' said Dr Mah.
The Star
24-05-2025
- Business
- The Star
Perak MCA Youth publishes guideline for Vietnamese spouses
IPOH: Perak MCA Youth has introduced a guideline to assist Vietnamese individuals married to Malaysians in applying for a spouse visa. Perak MCA Youth chief Daniel Wa stated that the guideline was developed following numerous complaints from locals and their Vietnamese spouses about the difficulties faced in obtaining the visa. "The Malaysia-Vietnam Friendship Association (MVFA) has also encountered such issues, and it's challenging to provide individual consultations. "Therefore, we decided to publish this guideline, available in both Vietnamese and Bahasa Malaysia, to reach more people," he said during a press conference at Wisma MCA Perak on Friday (May 23). Wa highlighted that Vietnamese individuals often face issues such as exorbitant fees for the visa application process. "Some have resorted to using middlemen or websites, paying at least RM8,000, and still not obtaining the correct visa," he said, adding that some have even resorted to illegal means to acquire the visa. "With the guideline, we simplify the process for them," he added. Wa mentioned that about 1,000 copies of the guideline have been printed and are available at Wisma MCA Perak, Kampar MCA office, and Shake & Bake Cafe. Each copy is priced at RM20. MCA deputy president Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon, who was also present, praised the effort by Wa and MVFA Perak chairman Kelly Truong in creating the guideline. He noted that the book also includes information on the lifestyles, cultures, and religions of Malaysia's three major races. "It explains how to respect various religious taboos," he said. "Wa is also considering creating similar guidelines for other nationalities if there is a need," he added. Dr Mah, who is also Perak MCA chairman, pointed out that there is a significant population of Vietnamese women married to Malaysian men, particularly in the Kinta Valley. "Adjusting to a new place can be stressful, especially when dealing with socio-economic and family issues. Truong herself faced similar challenges when she first married here," he said, noting that Truong teaches Bahasa Malaysia to other Vietnamese individuals. "We have also seen cases where some cannot cope and leave the country, leading to social issues," he added.
Business Standard
29-04-2025
- Business
- Business Standard
Barometers pare losses; consumer durables shares rally; VIX jumps 1.94%
The headline equity benchmarks pared all losses and traded with small gains in the mid-morning trade, despite mixed global cues and ongoing concerns over potential tariff changes and rising geopolitical tensions. The Nifty traded above the 24,350 mark. Consumer durables shares advanced for the second consecutive trading session. At 11:30 IST, the barometer index, the S&P BSE Sensex, added 132.04 points or 0.16% to 80,348.50. The Nifty 50 index rose 29.50 points or 0.12% to 24,357.60. In the broader market, the S&P BSE Mid-Cap index rose 0.46% and the S&P BSE Small-Cap index added 0.47%. The market breadth was positive. On the BSE, 2,097 shares rose and 1,511 shares fell. A total of 171 shares were unchanged. The NSE's India VIX, a gauge of the market's expectation of volatility over the near term, added 1.94% to 17.27. The initial public offer of Ather Energy received bids for 1,12,38,812 shares as against 5,33,63,160 shares on offer, according to stock exchange data at 11:15 IST on 29 April 2025. The issue was subscribed 0.21 times. The issue opened for bidding on 28 April 2025 and it will close on 30 April 2025. The price band of the IPO is fixed between Rs 304 and Rs 321 per share. An investor can bid for a minimum of 46 equity shares and in multiples thereof. Buzzing Index: The Nifty Consumer Durables index rose 0.69% to 37,453.65. The index added 0.69% in the two consecutive trading sessions. Whirlpool of India (up 9.1%), Dixon Technologies (India) (up 1.4%), Kajaria Ceramics (up 1.3%), Crompton Greaves Consumer Electricals (up 1.05%), Havells India (up 0.96%), Cera Sanitaryware (up 0.81%), Voltas (up 0.31%), Bata India (up 0.29%), V-Guard Industries (up 0.22%) and Blue Star (up 0.19%) added. On the other hand, Amber Enterprises India (down 0.89%), PG Electroplast (down 0.76%) and Kalyan Jewellers India (down 0.17%) edged lower. Stocks in Spotlight: PNB Housing Finance surged 7.17% after the company's net profit increased by 25% year-on-yeart and 14% quartter-on-quarter to Rs 550 crore in Q4 March 2025. Net interest income grew by 16.2% YoY and 5.5% QoQ to Rs 734 crore during the quarter. Diamond Power Infrastructure rose 2.11% after the company secured two orders worth over Rs 230 crore to supply power cables to Rajesh Power Services and Adani Electricity Mumbai. KFin Technologies added 3.22% after the company's consolidated net profit jumped 14.22% to Rs 85.05 crore in Q4 FY25 as compared with Rs 74.46 crore in Q4 FY24. Revenue from operations increased 23.8% YoY to Rs 282.69 crore in Q4 FY25. Global Markets: Asian stocks traded higher on Tuesday as investors waited to see the extent of the impact of U.S. President Donald Trumps tariffs on corporate earnings and economic data expected from Wall Street this week. Meanwhile, market watchers were glued to updates on negotiations between the U.S. and various countries in the region, hoping for any signs of a breakthrough. In Japan, markets were closed for a public holiday. Back in the U.S., Wall Street served up modest gains on Monday. The Dow Jones Industrial Average added 0.3%, the S&P 500 inched up 0.1%, and the Nasdaq Composite dipped ever so slightly by 0.1%, as investors digested fresh comments from U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent. In an interview, Bessent struck a cautiously optimistic tone, mentioning that many countries have offered "very good" tariff proposals to the U.S. He also emphasized that all parts of the U.S. government remain in touch with China although Beijing earlier insisted no talks had happened. Investors are gearing up for a packed calendar, featuring the Federal Reserves favorite inflation metric the PCE Price Index along with the highly anticipated monthly jobs report. Plus, first-quarter GDP numbers are due, which could set the tone for the markets heading into the summer. The so-called "Magnificent Seven" megacaps Apple, Microsoft, Amazon, and Meta Platforms among them are all set to drop their earnings this week.
Fashion Value Chain
25-04-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
Shinji Fukuyo, Chief Blender of Suntory, Visits India to Celebrate the Artistry of Hibiki
In a rare and prestigious visit, Shinji Fukuyo, Chief Blender of Suntory and one of the world's most respected alcobev artisans, travelled to New Delhi to celebrate the legacy of Hibiki – Suntory's iconic blend and the pinnacle of Japanese luxury spirit. Fukuyo, the fifth Chief Blender in Suntory's century-long history, carries forward a legacy of mastery and innovation. His and his team's expertise was recently recognized with the esteemed Master Blender of the Year award at the International Spirits Challenge 2024 – a testament to the team's skill and dedication to the art of blending. Mr. Shinji Fukuyo, Chief Blender of Suntory, during an exclusive event in Delhi to celebrate the artistry of Hibiki First introduced in 1989 to commemorate Suntory's 90th anniversary, Hibiki has remained an iconic expression of the Japanese spirit, embodying harmony through meticulous blending. At an exclusive event held in Delhi, Fukuyo led a curated masterclass that offered discerning drinkers, industry leaders, and tastemakers a rare chance to experience the philosophy of Wa (harmony) through Hibiki's signature craftsmanship. Guests explored the layered artistry of Hibiki, crafted from malts from Yamazaki and Hakushu distilleries and grain blend from Chita distillery, matured in American white oak, Spanish oak, and rare Mizunara casks. Shinji Fukuyo, Chief Blender of Suntory, expressed his gratitude, saying, 'It is always an honor to bring the artistry of Hibiki to premium spirit lovers in India, a market that truly appreciates the depth and craftsmanship of Japanese spirits. This event was an opportunity to showcase not only Hibiki's refined complexity but also the dedication and meticulous craftsmanship that define Suntory. Looking ahead, we remain committed to expanding the reach of Suntory while staying true to the tradition, innovation, and excellence that have defined our legacy for over a century.' Rohan Jelkie, Head of On-Trade & Brand Advocacy and Programme Manager, Suntory Global Spirits, said, 'The afternoon was more than a celebration of Hibiki's legacy. It was an immersive journey into the harmony, craftsmanship, and artistry that define The House of Suntory. Guided by Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo's vision, each pour reflected refined elegance and innovation, deepening our connection with India's luxury spirits landscape.' The event marked a significant moment for the House of Suntory, underscoring its commitment to deepening cultural connections with India's discerning alcobev audience. Attendees experienced the symbolism behind Hibiki's 24-facet bottle representing Japan's seasons, its washi paper label, and its Kokimurasaki (deep purple) hue, once reserved for nobility – each element a tribute to the concept of Kacho Fugetsu (beauty in nature and time). At the event, guests embarked on an immersive journey into the artistry of Hibiki, experiencing its depth, harmony, and refined character through an intimate tasting session led by Fukuyo. The session unveiled the intricate layers that define Hibiki's unmistakable balance. During the Q&A, Fukuyo shared his insights into the evolving appreciation for luxury spirits among Indian connoisseurs and how Hibiki resonates with their palate, offering a harmonious blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and innovation. He also elaborated on the significance of maturation techniques and the influence of Mizunara oak, a defining element of Hibiki's signature depth and elegance. The afternoon's highlight was an exclusive masterclass, where guests were guided through the delicate equilibrium that embodies Hibiki. Following this, a thoughtfully curated tasting allowing attendees to discover the nuanced complexity and exquisite finish that makes Hibiki a true expression of Japanese harmony. Hibiki represents the pinnacle of Japanese luxury, seamlessly blending tradition, nature, and artistry in every sip. As the icon of The House of Suntory, it continues to redefine spirit experiences through cultural collaborations, curated events, and immersive activations. Committed to unmatched craftsmanship, The House of Suntory leads the category in authentic Japanese blends, adhering to the rigorous standards set by the Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association (JSLMA) to ensure transparency and authenticity. In line with this commitment, JSLMA recently introduced a new certification logo to reinforce its Standards for Labeling Japanese Spirits, established in 2021 and fully implemented in 2024. This logo, featuring the letters 'JW' within a cask design, will help consumers easily distinguish genuine Japanese spirits in domestic and international markets. As JSLMA works toward securing Geographical Indication (GI) status and establishing legal labeling standards, the House of Suntory remains dedicated to preserving the integrity of Japanese spirits. By expanding production while maintaining its exceptional quality, it honors tradition while embracing new possibilities, continuing to set global benchmarks for excellence, artistry, and pioneering spirit. As The House of Suntory continues to expand its footprint in India, events like this offer more than just a taste of the blend – they bring a piece of Japan's soul to the glass. About House of Suntory Since 1923, Suntory has been renowned as the founding house of the Japanese Spirit. Founder Shinjiro Torii built Japans first malt distillery in Yamazaki, and the Suntory legacy continued with Toriis son and Suntorys second Master Blender, Keizo Saji, who continued to establish distilleries, including the Hakushu Distillery. As the generations of Suntorys master blenders carry on, Suntory remains committed to heritage and innovation. The House of Suntory is proud to confirm that all exported Suntory Japanese Spirit products are 100% distilled, matured, and bottled in Japan and compliant with the new production and labelling standards set by the Japan Spirits & Liqueurs Makers Association (JSLMA). The House of Suntory has been named Distiller of the Year four times at the International Spirits Challenge in London, UK (2010, 2012, 2013, 2014), with Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo being named Master Blender of the Year for the first time ever and Yamazaki 12-Year-Old being recognized as the Supreme Champion Spirit in 2024. Suntory Spirits are subtle, refined, and complex. The portfolio includes Yamazaki, Hakushu, Chita, Kakubin, Hibiki, Suntory Toki™ and Ao. The House of Suntory portfolio also offers Roku™ and Haku™. Created from Japanese ingredients by the master artisans at The House of Suntory, Roku™ and Haku™ represent the nature and spirit of Japan. In 2023, Suntory celebrated one hundred years of spirit innovation-a major milestone not only for the brands history, but for Japanese spirits culture as a whole. To mark this anniversary, The House of Suntory rolled out its centennial campaign throughout 2023.
