Latest news with #ofAgreement
Scoop
10-08-2025
- Business
- Scoop
UNDP And FCCC Sign Landmark Agreements To Advance Gender Equality And Rural Electrification In Fiji
Press Release – UNDP The MOU signing ceremony formalised FCCCs commitment to implementing the Gender Equality Seal for Public Institutions a globally recognised certification initiative led by UNDP. T 08 August 2025 The UN Development Programme (UNDP) and Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) today signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and a Letter of Agreement (LOA) marking a significant step forward in institutional gender transformation in Fiji and advances inclusive development outcomes in Fiji. The MOU signing ceremony formalised FCCC's commitment to implementing the Gender Equality Seal for Public Institutions – a globally recognised certification initiative led by UNDP. This partnership positions FCCC as the first public institution in Fiji to embark on this transformative journey, reinforcing its role as a regional leader in gender-responsive governance. This initiative will support FCCC in strengthening its internal systems, policies, and operations to promote gender equality and inclusion ensuring that institutional and regulatory decision-making reflects the needs and voices of all Fijians. It aligns directly with Fiji's National Gender Policy and its international commitments, including Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. Through this initiative, FCCC will undergo a multi-phase process involving internal assessment, capacity building, and external accreditation. This partnership also compliments FCCC's regulatory role in the Fiji Rural Electrification Fund (FREF) project. By integrating gender-responsive systems into its oversight of off-grid and mini-grid energy solutions, FCCC is ensuring that women and vulnerable groups are not only protected but empowered through equitable access and inclusive development. Through the agreement, UNDP will support FCCC in developing national regulations for rural mini-grids. The FREF Project plans to electrify 20 rural communities over the next 24 months thereby connecting 6,500 Fijians and 15 schools and health centers to clean, affordable and reliable electricity. It will install 2 megawatts of solar energy to abate 2.92 gigagrams of carbon dioxide equivalent while creating capabilities for tele-health and tele-education using satellite data connectivity. This agreement under FREF also supports the Fijian Government's broader energy and climate ambitions, by putting in place the regulatory environment necessary to scale rural electrification in a sustainable and inclusive way. FCCC Chief Executive Officer, Senikavika Jiuta said: 'By embedding gender equality within our own operations, we ensure that our regulatory work, like that with FREF, delivers measurable, empowering benefits to all Fijians, especially women and girls in our most vulnerable communities. We hope our journey inspires other public institutions to join this critical movement.' UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji Resident Representative, Munkhtuya Altangerel said: 'This is the first time in the Pacific that a public institution has voluntarily raised its hand to pursue Gender Equality Seal certification. FCCC is setting a new benchmark – not just for Fiji, but for the region – demonstrating that public institutions can lead by example in embedding equality and inclusion into their very core.' This integrated approach plays a crucial role in advancing three key Sustainable Development Goals: it promotes gender equality in line with SDG 5, supports access to affordable and clean energy as outlined in SDG 7, and strengthens peace, justice, and institutional integrity in accordance with SDG 16. As FCCC embarks on this transformative journey with UNDP, the partnership stands as a powerful example of how institutional reform can drive inclusive development.
Scoop
10-08-2025
- Business
- Scoop
UNDP And FCCC Sign Landmark Agreements To Advance Gender Equality And Rural Electrification In Fiji
08 August 2025 The UN Development Programme (UNDP) and Fijian Competition and Consumer Commission (FCCC) today signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and a Letter of Agreement (LOA) marking a significant step forward in institutional gender transformation in Fiji and advances inclusive development outcomes in Fiji. The MOU signing ceremony formalised FCCC's commitment to implementing the Gender Equality Seal for Public Institutions – a globally recognised certification initiative led by UNDP. This partnership positions FCCC as the first public institution in Fiji to embark on this transformative journey, reinforcing its role as a regional leader in gender-responsive governance. This initiative will support FCCC in strengthening its internal systems, policies, and operations to promote gender equality and inclusion ensuring that institutional and regulatory decision-making reflects the needs and voices of all Fijians. It aligns directly with Fiji's National Gender Policy and its international commitments, including Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. Through this initiative, FCCC will undergo a multi-phase process involving internal assessment, capacity building, and external accreditation. This partnership also compliments FCCC's regulatory role in the Fiji Rural Electrification Fund (FREF) project. By integrating gender-responsive systems into its oversight of off-grid and mini-grid energy solutions, FCCC is ensuring that women and vulnerable groups are not only protected but empowered through equitable access and inclusive development. Through the agreement, UNDP will support FCCC in developing national regulations for rural mini-grids. The FREF Project plans to electrify 20 rural communities over the next 24 months thereby connecting 6,500 Fijians and 15 schools and health centers to clean, affordable and reliable electricity. It will install 2 megawatts of solar energy to abate 2.92 gigagrams of carbon dioxide equivalent while creating capabilities for tele-health and tele-education using satellite data connectivity. This agreement under FREF also supports the Fijian Government's broader energy and climate ambitions, by putting in place the regulatory environment necessary to scale rural electrification in a sustainable and inclusive way. FCCC Chief Executive Officer, Senikavika Jiuta said: 'By embedding gender equality within our own operations, we ensure that our regulatory work, like that with FREF, delivers measurable, empowering benefits to all Fijians, especially women and girls in our most vulnerable communities. We hope our journey inspires other public institutions to join this critical movement.' UNDP Pacific Office in Fiji Resident Representative, Munkhtuya Altangerel said: 'This is the first time in the Pacific that a public institution has voluntarily raised its hand to pursue Gender Equality Seal certification. FCCC is setting a new benchmark – not just for Fiji, but for the region – demonstrating that public institutions can lead by example in embedding equality and inclusion into their very core.' This integrated approach plays a crucial role in advancing three key Sustainable Development Goals: it promotes gender equality in line with SDG 5, supports access to affordable and clean energy as outlined in SDG 7, and strengthens peace, justice, and institutional integrity in accordance with SDG 16. As FCCC embarks on this transformative journey with UNDP, the partnership stands as a powerful example of how institutional reform can drive inclusive development.
Arabian Post
08-08-2025
- Business
- Arabian Post
Adnoc Gas and HPCL Secure Long-Term LNG Supply Deal
Adnoc Gas has entered into a strategic partnership with Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited for the supply of liquefied natural gas over the next decade. The Heads of Agreement signed between the two companies commits Adnoc Gas to deliver 0.5 million metric tonnes per annum of LNG to HPCL for a 10-year term, further enhancing its presence in the high-demand Asian LNG market. This deal not only signifies a key step in expanding Adnoc Gas' footprint but also solidifies its reputation as a dependable global supplier of LNG. It follows a series of successful agreements with Indian stakeholders, including notable deals with Indian Oil Corporation and GAIL India Limited. The new agreement is an important milestone in reinforcing energy security, both regionally and globally, and supports the growing demand for natural gas in India. Adnoc Gas, a subsidiary of the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company, is known for its integrated gas processing and sales operations. The company has been making significant strides in building a diversified portfolio, catering to the burgeoning LNG demand in Asia, especially India, where the energy landscape has been rapidly evolving. The latest agreement with HPCL not only strengthens Adnoc Gas' position in the market but also bolsters the UAE's role in supporting India's energy security. ADVERTISEMENT HPCL, one of the largest oil and gas companies in India, plays a crucial role in ensuring the energy needs of the country are met. The long-term LNG supply agreement is set to provide a stable and reliable source of natural gas to fuel the company's operations, with an eye on meeting the surging demand for cleaner energy sources. This deal further reflects the growing synergy between Middle Eastern gas suppliers and Indian energy firms, fostering a collaborative approach to securing energy resources. As part of the contract, Adnoc Gas will supply LNG from its vast production facilities in the UAE, a region that is rapidly becoming a key player in the global LNG market. The UAE's infrastructure capabilities, combined with its geographic location, position it well to cater to Asia's growing energy needs. With an established reputation for reliability, Adnoc Gas continues to enhance its strategic relationships with energy companies in key markets across Asia, especially India. This agreement is part of Adnoc Gas' broader strategy to expand its international reach and reinforce its global LNG presence. By securing long-term contracts with major energy firms like HPCL, the company is well-positioned to play a critical role in shaping the future of the global LNG trade. The partnership also signifies a growing trend of collaboration between the Middle East and Asia in the energy sector, with a focus on securing long-term, sustainable supply chains. For India, the agreement comes at a pivotal time when the country is looking to reduce its reliance on coal and diversify its energy mix. LNG has been identified as a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuels, and this supply agreement with Adnoc Gas will help HPCL meet its growing energy demands while also aligning with India's environmental objectives. The partnership is expected to have a lasting impact on India's energy security, providing the country with a stable and clean source of fuel to support its rapidly developing economy. This new agreement underscores the importance of long-term, strategic energy partnerships in an increasingly complex global market. As countries around the world look for solutions to their energy needs, partnerships such as the one between Adnoc Gas and HPCL will be crucial in ensuring energy security, driving economic growth, and meeting environmental goals.
The Star
06-08-2025
- Business
- The Star
Self-made entrepreneur gives back to alma mater TAR UMT with RM1mil annual contribution
KUALA LUMPUR: The Silent Foundation founder and executive chairman Teng Ngiek Lian has pledged a lifelong annual contribution of RM1mil to his alma mater, Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT). On Wednesday (Aug 6), TAR UMT launched The Silent TAR UMT Fund, which will receive the yearly donation from the Singapore-based charity supporting society's 'silent sufferers' who are often overlooked or forgotten. The RM1mil annual fund will be channelled equally into three core areas, each receiving RM333,333. The first tranche will support research efforts by TAR UMT students and staff in cutting-edge fields such as artificial intelligence, green energy, robotics, automation, and financial technology. The second tranche is aimed at fostering racial harmony among students within TAR UMT and with those from other institutions while the third tranche will fund student-led social initiatives, aimed at developing socially responsible student leaders. The initiative was formalised through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) signed between Teng and TAR UMT president Prof Datuk Dr Lee Sze Wei. Speaking at the ceremony, Teng expressed that coming from humble beginnings, he had received a lot of support over the years. 'Doing good to others is doing good to ourselves. 'We need great, successful people. But the great part has got to incorporate some human element. 'I truly hope we continue this journey as a community. I thank TAR UMT, its leaders, and my fellow alumni for welcoming me back,' he said. The launch was witnessed by TAR UMT Board of Governors and Alumni Council chairman Tan Sri Chan Kong Choy. He welcomed the initiative, saying that The Silent TAR UMT Fund reflects Teng's philosophy in life and in philanthropy: to care for the voiceless, the overlooked and the underrepresented. 'Through his foundation, he champions causes often forgotten - from migrant workers to mental health patients, from women's rights to environmental protection. 'I believe all of us here, especially the younger TARCians, have something to learn from Teng,' he said. As part of the event, a grant-supported initiative under The Silent Foundation was presented to exemplify socially responsible innovation. TAR UMT alumnus and founder of 4LEAF Yap Jing Zong, introduced the Urban Recycling Ecosystem (URE) — a project aimed at educating future generations and building a self-sustaining campus ecosystem. The Silent Foundation was founded on July 14, 2010 by Teng, a self-made entrepreneur born in Terengganu. After completing his O Levels at 18, he supported himself through part-time jobs while pursuing professional qualifications, eventually becoming a chartered certified accountant and chartered secretary. He steadily rose through the corporate ranks, from clerk to chief executive officer, and in 1996 he founded Target Asset Management, a boutique investment firm which grew from managing US$5.5mil (approx RM23.3mil) to approximately US$1.5bil (approx RM6.342bil) as of June 13, 2015. Motivated by a sense of gratitude to society, Teng established The Silent Foundation at age 60, with an endowment capital of SG$50mil (approx RM164.22mil) funded by the Teng family. The Foundation supports the voiceless in society, including migrant workers, environmental causes, and animal welfare.
Mid East Info
08-07-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
AUS students to benefit from practical training and industry exposure through new partnership with Ghaf Labs
Sharjah, UAE,July 2025 – Following the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between American University of Sharjah (AUS) and Ghaf Labs–FZCO (Ghaf Labs), a Dubai-based blockchain advisory and consultancy firm, AUS students will gain expanded access to internships, research collaborations, field visits and knowledge-sharing opportunities in emerging technical fields. The agreement was signed under the AUS Engineering Al Nukhba Program, which establishes industry collaborations in research, development, training programs, internships, exchange of information and personnel, joint supervision of students' capstone projects and field trip visits. Dr. Fadi Aloul, Dean of the AUS College of Engineering, said: 'This collaboration with Ghaf Labs opens valuable pathways for our students to interact directly with the frontiers of digital innovation,' said Dr. Fadi Aloul, Dean of the AUS College of Engineering. 'We are very excited about this collaboration because it involves Web3, blockchain, AI and advanced technologies—areas we have strategically embedded into all 24 of our programs under CEN 2.0 major curriculum revamp. By engaging with professionals in these emerging sectors, our students will enhance their technical competencies and gain insights into real-world applications that complement their academic training.' Under the agreement, Ghaf Labs will offer internship opportunities that align with students' academic and professional goals. The collaboration also includes joint supervision of selected capstone and research projects whenever feasible, cooperation on research and development initiatives, expert-led sessions and organized visits to industry settings. 'At Ghaf Labs, we believe that shaping the future of technology starts with empowering the next generation. Partnering with AUS allows us to co-create a space where innovation meets education. This collaboration reflects our commitment to cultivating regional talent in blockchain, Web3, and AI. By mentoring students through real-world projects, we're building not just careers—but a thriving safe digital economy,' said Feras Al Sadek, Co-Founder, Board Member and Managing Partner at Ghaf Labs. Ghaf Labs specializes in management consulting, marketing research and consulting, and Distributed Ledger Technology services. They also offer IT consulting for industries involved in Web3, blockchain, the metaverse and other digital asset sectors. This partnership is part of the College of Engineering's broader mission to foster meaningful engagement between academia and industry. Through initiatives like the Al Nukhba Program, the college continues to provide students with access to cutting-edge technologies, real-world challenges and professional networks that prepare them to lead in a rapidly evolving global workforce.
