by Ferry Bayu | Nov 8, 2024 | Business
KUALA LUMPUR, 7 November 2024 – ASCARO has unveiled a new partnership with Padel Galis, the Spanish padel court manufacturer, securing its position as the manufacturer’s exclusive distributor in Malaysia.
After opening its doors just over a year ago at the rooftop of 1Utama New Wing, the ASCARO Padel & Social Club has set the standard for the city’s padel courts. Their dedication to outfitting their facilities with the finest grade materials available showcases the differences in quality and returns on investment.
“At ASCARO, we not only distribute padel courts but also manage our own clubs, and we are certain that Padel Galis courts will be a durable investment over time,” said Daniel Liljekvist, managing director and partner at ASCARO.
Price versus Quality: You Get What You Pay For
As the sport has gained traction and popularity in the region, so has the growing demand for high-quality facilities. One of ASCARO’s goals is to champion Padel as an elite sport while still staying true to its roots. Originating in Acapulco, Mexico, in 1969, padel was then introduced to Spain by Prince Alfonso of Hohenlohe-Langenburg, who built two courts at his Marbella Club Hotel.
The sport has made its global presence felt, and Southeast Asia is no exception. The tropical region is exposed to weather that can wear down a court, such as high humidity, heavy rains, and strong winds.
Salva Segura, chief growth officer of Padel Galis, explains: “The quality of the courts in a region like Southeast Asia is non-negotiable. Extreme weather conditions test the materials, and if they aren’t of high quality, maintenance and repair costs rise significantly.”
Liljekvist adds: “We’ve seen how the appeal of low-priced products can be tempting in the short-term, but in areas with high humidity and frequent rain, investing in quality is essential.”
Popular demand would lead to healthy competition, and the Malaysian padel market is no exception. Numerous low-cost alternatives are entering the market and often falling short in terms of quality. Cheaper courts tend to experience ‘wear-and-tear’ issues such as oxidation, cracking, and breakage, especially under adverse weather conditions.
Investing in high-quality materials, specifically by Padel Galis, would result in long-term savings by reducing repair and replacement costs.
A Promising Future of Padel in Malaysia
Padel Galis’ contribution to the development of padel in Malaysia will offer local clubs and players padel facilities that will meet the highest international standards.
“That’s why we are thrilled to work with ASCARO, a company that shares our vision in providing durable, top-tier solutions for our clients,” adds Segura.
by Ferry Bayu | Oct 29, 2024 | Advocacy
Banwa Private Island is proud to announce its designation as one of the Philippines’ 10 Important Shark and Ray Areas (ISRAs). This significant recognition highlights the island’s vital role in protecting and conserving threatened marine species.
Years of dedicated research by marine biologists have unveiled the island’s critical importance as a habitat for Black Tip Reef Sharks. The island’s unique geography, with its lush landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and rich marine environment, creates ideal conditions for these vulnerable creatures to thrive, a fact that never ceases to fascinate.
As an ISRA, Banwa Private Island joins a global network of protected areas committed to safeguarding shark and ray populations. This designation underscores the island’s unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism and environmental conservation, a cause that we can all support and be reassured by.
Banwa Private Island, in partnership with the Aquos Foundation, is actively working to protect its marine ecosystem through reef rehabilitation and community outreach programs. This inspiring collaboration aims to set a global standard for sustainable luxury tourism and marine conservation, giving hope for a brighter future.
The validation follows years of dedicated research by Dr. AA Yaptinchay of Marine Wildlife Watch of the Philippines and Dr. Teri Aquino, Aquos Foundation Consultant, who have been studying Black Tip Reef Shark habitats around Banwa Private Island since 2017. Their collaborative work has been instrumental in demonstrating the island’s importance as a critical habitat for these vulnerable creatures.
black tip reef shark photo credit to aqua.org
This prestigious recognition places Banwa Private Island alongside renowned marine protected areas like Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park in safeguarding threatened marine species. Located within the Tumarbong Marine Protected Area, a region known for its rich biodiversity and strict conservation measures, Banwa Private Island is a haven for marine life, boasting shallow waters teeming with diverse ecosystems. The island’s unique geographical location and rich marine environment create ideal conditions for sharks and rays to thrive.
ISRAs are designated ocean habitats crucial for the survival of sharks and rays. With over a third of shark species at risk of extinction due to overfishing and habitat loss, these protected areas are essential for their survival. Coastal regions, home to 75% of endangered shark species, are particularly vulnerable.
Banwa Private Island has become a sanctuary for marine life, with a remarkable resurgence of threatened species. Black Tip Reef Sharks have returned to the island’s shallow waters, and Hawksbill Turtle nesting success rates have soared. These achievements are a testament to the island’s commitment to conservation and habitat preservation.
“Being named an ISRA is a significant milestone for Banwa Private Island,” said Janet Oquendo, Island Manager of Banwa Private Island. “This recognition underscores our dedication to safeguarding our marine ecosystem and contributing to global shark and ray conservation efforts.”
The identification of ISRAs is a global initiative led by the International Union for Conservation of Nature Species Survival Commission (IUCN-SSC) Shark Specialist Group in collaboration with local and regional experts. This collaborative effort highlights the importance of area-based conservation strategies, including Marine Protected Areas (MPAs). The newly designated ISRAs will provide valuable insights for developing and managing effective conservation measures to ensure the survival of these vulnerable species.
The Aquos Foundation, Banwa Private Island’s non-profit partner, has been instrumental in the island’s ecological restoration through reef rehabilitation and community support. Together, they are working to create a thriving underwater sanctuary for generations to come. The foundation’s commitment and support have significantly contributed to the island’s conservation efforts.
Banwa Private Island is an exclusive all-villa destination offering unparalleled luxury, privacy, and personalized service in a pristine marine and nature preserve. Nestled in the Sulu Sea, the island’s lush landscapes and crystal-clear waters provide an idyllic setting for discerning travelers seeking an unforgettable escape.
by Ferry Bayu | Oct 11, 2024 | Art and Science
Banwa Private Island is proud to share its recent initiatives supporting biodiversity conservation through art and education. As a top 10 Philippine area for sharks and rays, we are dedicated to preserving our diverse ecosystems and are proud to be recognized for our efforts.
The one-night-only “Biodiversity in Full Color” art exhibition showcased the stunning artworks of Samantha Kaspar, a talented artist with a passion for nature. Her paintings highlight the island’s rich biodiversity, inspiring viewers to appreciate and protect our natural world.
Banwa Private Island’s commitment to conservation extends beyond its role as a sanctuary for marine life. The island has undertaken important research projects, including studies on the native Tabon Bird (or Philippine Megapode) and Mantanani Scops Owl, as well as initiatives to preserve the indigenous beach forests where these species nest.
Ms. Janet Oquendo, Island Manager, stated, “Samantha’s artworks beautifully capture the essence of our island’s biodiversity. We’re honored to support her and continue contributing to its preservation.”
The photo shows Ms. Samantha Kaspar standing in front of the bed headframe coral artwork at the Northeast Principal Villa on Banwa Private Island (above photo of the collage). This stunning piece, inspired by the island’s thriving coral reef, served as one of her painting inspirations for the recent art exhibit (below photo of the collage). The bed headframe’s design is a testament to the Aquos Foundation’s Reef Ball regeneration project.
In addition to the art exhibition, Banwa Private Island’s Aquos Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to marine conservation, partnered with the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park Management Office to introduce the book “Mga Hero ng Planetang Blue” to local students, inspiring them to become environmental guardians.
Our commitment to supporting initiatives that promote biodiversity conservation and sustainable practices is unwavering. We are dedicated to preserving our diverse ecosystems and are proud to be recognized for our efforts.
Banwa Private Island is proud to support the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity and its initiatives to raise awareness about biodiversity conservation through art and education.
The one-night-only “Biodiversity in Full Color” art exhibition, a culmination of our conservation and art initiatives, showcased the stunning artworks of Ms. Samantha Kaspar, a talented artist with special needs whose passion for nature is evident in her vibrant paintings. Her works featured a diverse array of species, from colorful birds and fish to intricate corals and plants.
As a testament to its efforts, Banwa Private Island was recently recognized as one of the Philippines’ top 10 Important Shark and Ray Areas. This recognition highlights the island’s critical importance in preserving these vulnerable species and their habitats. To further bolster its conservation efforts, the island has undertaken important research projects, including studies on the native Tabon Bird (or Philippine Megapode) and Mantanani Scops Owl, as well as initiatives to preserve the indigenous beach forests where these species nest.
Ms. Janet Oquendo, Island Manager of Banwa Private Island, stated, “Aquos Foundation’s mission to protect marine ecosystems deeply resonates with Ms. Samantha’s beautiful and evocative artworks. Her paintings capture the essence of the underwater world, reminding us of the delicate balance of nature. We’re honored to have supported her and to continue contributing to the preservation of our island home’s fragile ecosystems through our conservation initiatives, including research on native species and habitat preservation.”
In addition to the art exhibition, Banwa Private Island’s Aquos Foundation, in partnership with the Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park and World Heritage Site Management Office, recently held an inspiring event for students from Tumarbong Elementary School. The event featured the introduction of the book “Mga Hero ng Planetang Blue,” produced by the ASEAN Centre for Biodiversity. The book inspires young readers to become guardians of our planet.
‘Biodiversity in Full Color’ art exhibit was a resounding success, demonstrating the power of art to connect people with nature and inspire action. Banwa Private Island remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote biodiversity conservation and sustainable practices, both through art and education.
by Ferry Bayu | Oct 10, 2024 | Business
Asuene Inc. is excited to announce its strategic acquisition of E4G, Inc., an innovative startup that emerged from the Tanaka Kenji Laboratory at the University of Tokyo. E4G specializes in AI-driven data collection and analysis for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) metrics, as well as developing software for decarbonization roadmaps.
Background of the Acquisition
Asuene offers a diverse range of products, including “ASUENE,” a carbon accounting platform, “ASUENE ESG,” an evaluation cloud service, and “ASUENE CAREER,” which provides talent recruiting support for your decarbonization and ESG initiatives. By providing a one-stop solution for sustainability, “ASUENE” has supported the decarbonization and ESG management efforts of over 9,000 companies. Meanwhile, “ASUENE ESG” has exceeded 14,000 companies and holds the top position in the industry.
In recent years, the importance of ESG metrics as a basis for corporate evaluation has significantly increased, leading to a rapid rise in demand among businesses and financial institutions for efficient collection, analysis, management, and disclosure of ESG data. However, the lack of standardization and normalization in ESG data collection makes this process extremely challenging. Many companies face considerable time and cost burdens as they must manually gather vast amounts of information for competitor comparisons and industry analyses, all while requiring ongoing data collection and analysis.
Furthermore, in the context of decarbonization, visualizing CO2 emissions and developing as well as implementing emission reduction roadmaps have become increasingly crucial for companies. The complexity of formulating these reduction plans has led to rising challenges, as organizations often lack the necessary expertise to proceed effectively.
In light of these social trends and customer challenges, we have determined that integrating E4G— which possesses strong services and technological foundations in ESG data and CO2 emissions reduction—will significantly enhance the value we provide to our customers and further expand our platform. This realization has driven us to pursue the acquisition of E4G.
Objectives Achieved Through the Acquisition
Enhanced ESG Data Solutions
The acquisition enables Asuene to incorporate E4G’s ESG data capabilities into its current platform, creating a more comprehensive solution for businesses. This integration will allow organizations to efficiently gather and analyze non-financial indicators, assess competitors, and simplify evaluations of corporate value.
Strengthening Decarbonization Support
The combined expertise of Asuene and E4G will offer a comprehensive solution for managing decarbonization, addressing everything from visualizing CO2 emissions to developing and executing reduction strategies.
Fostering University-Industry Collaboration
The collaboration with E4G, supported by advanced technology and a strong data foundation, will expedite the development and societal implementation of decarbonization and ESG solutions.
Comments from E4G and Asuene Representatives
I am truly delighted to join the Asuene Group. I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to all stakeholders, including our customers, partner companies, team members, and shareholders.
In light of the global ESG movement, companies are being called upon to undergo further transformation. By collaborating with Asuene, which is rapidly expanding its operations on the global stage and driving societal GX initiatives, E4G will continue to advance our vision of ‘DATA DRIVEN GX.
Representative, E4G, Inc.
I am honored that E4G has chosen to join the Asuene Group. As the significance of ESG data and GHG reduction continues to grow both in Japan and worldwide, E4G’s expertise in analyzing ESG data disclosure and developing reduction roadmaps will be essential for a comprehensive assessment of corporate sustainability. This expertise will also play a key role in evaluating corporate value, risks, and investment potential.
Alongside Daichi Obara, the CEO of E4G, we look forward to creating new value in the areas of decarbonization and ESG data.
Founder & CEO, Asuene, Inc.
by Ferry Bayu | Oct 1, 2024 | Lifestyle
Escape to Banwa Private Island, a serene sanctuary nestled within the Palawan UNESCO biosphere reserve in the Philippines, for a transformative 4-day, 3-night wellness retreat. “Harmony Unveiled”, happening from November 28th to December 1st, 2024, offers a unique blend of invigorating yoga sessions, empowering Pilates workouts, and immersive sound bath meditations.
Embark on a journey of self-discovery and renewal with our all-inclusive ‘Harmony Unveiled’ retreat. This retreat, happening from November 28th to December 1st, 2024, caters to all levels, with world-class instructors guiding you toward physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Relax amidst breathtaking natural beauty and reconnect with yourself through expertly crafted sound meditations in stunning locations across the island.
Indulge in refined accommodations and savor exquisite contemporary cuisine featuring fresh, local ingredients. Banwa Private Island’s unparalleled service ensures a truly unforgettable retreat experience.
Banwa Private Island, a serene sanctuary nestled in Sulu Sea, Philippines, is set to unveil “Harmony Unveiled”, an exclusive 4-day, 3-night luxury wellness retreat from November 28th to December 1st, 2024. This is a rare opportunity to experience a retreat of this caliber in such a unique location.
Nestled within the Palawan UNESCO biosphere reserve, Banwa Private Island offers a pristine and mosquito-free environment, surrounded by abundant nature and endangered species. The island’s natural spring water feeds the showers and swimming pools, providing a truly immersive connection to the natural world.
Guests will embark on a curated program that seamlessly blends invigorating yoga sessions, empowering Pilates workouts, and immersive sound bath meditations. These activities, set against the backdrop of Banwa Private Island’s breathtaking landscapes, aim to harmonize the physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being.
The retreat is tailored to suit both beginners and seasoned yoga and fitness enthusiasts, ensuring personalized attention and growth for every participant. World-class instructors Ginger Diaz Serrano and Katrina Sandejas-Manosa will lead daily yoga and Pilates classes, adapting to individual needs and fostering a sense of unity within the group. This is not just a retreat but a journey towards personal growth and well-being.
Ginger Diaz Serrano is a seasoned yoga instructor with over 18 years of experience. She began her journey as a Bikram Yoga practitioner in Honolulu, Hawaii, and has since become a certified Bikram Yoga Instructor. Ginger has participated in numerous yoga events, including the Philippine Yoga Asana Championships, and has been featured on TV and in print. In 2010, she founded her own studio in Manila, Philippines, called Evolve Yoga and Fitness. A certified Vinyasa and Inferno Hot Pilates instructor, Ginger has been a participant, presenter, and organizer of international yoga conferences around the world and now runs luxury wellness retreats in unique locations.
Katrina Sandejas-Manosa is a dedicated yoga practitioner and instructor with over 20 years of experience. She began her teacher training in 2009 and has since taught and practiced yoga in various countries, including the Philippines, Thailand, USA, Malaysia, Singapore, and Hong Kong. Katrina is also a business owner, having operated ‘Real Food, A Healthy Neighborhood Grocery’ for the past 9 years.
Incorporating the healing power of sound, meditation sessions will take place in unique locations across the island, from pristine beaches to lush tropical gardens. Guests will immerse themselves in the soothing sounds of nature combined with expertly crafted soundscapes, allowing them to unwind, release stress, and achieve a profound state of relaxation.
Banwa Private Island’s refined accommodation, contemporary cuisine by award-winning Swiss Chef Martin Kaspar, and unparalleled service add an extra layer of indulgence to the retreat experience. Each day will culminate in gourmet dining, offering a selection of healthy and delectable dishes to nourish the body and delight the palate. This is a retreat where luxury meets wellness, ensuring you feel pampered and rejuvenated.
“Harmony Unveiled” invites guests to escape the ordinary and embark on a transformative journey toward holistic well-being. Join us on Banwa Private Island, where the fusion of luxury, nature, and wellness creates a haven for self-discovery and renewal. Elevate the mind, embrace the body, and harmonize the spirit in this unique and unforgettable retreat.
For more information and to book your spot in this transformative retreat, please visit Banwa Private Island’s website https://www.banwaprivateisland.com or send an email to re**********@****************nd.com.
Years of dedicated research by marine biologists have unveiled the island’s critical importance as a habitat for 
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