by Ferry Bayu | Aug 9, 2023 | Business
#17YearsWithForest: A Legacy of Gender Balance and Inclusive Workforce
Forest Interactive, an industry trailblazer celebrating its 17th anniversary, is making bold strides in fostering an inclusive work culture and promoting diversity in the tech industry. With visionary leadership and unwavering commitment, Forest Interactive is driving change, connecting communities, and championing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) at all levels.
Igniting a Vision of Inclusion
Since 2020, Forest Interactive has actively supported efforts to end harassment, starting with its pledge of support for the Anti-Sexual Harassment Act in the Malaysian Parliament two years later. Since then, Forest Interactive has taken steps to implement a zero-tolerance stance on sexual harassment, clearly outlining guidelines and complaint procedures.
#ItEndsNow Campaign: Last year, Forest Interactive launched an internal #ItEndsNow campaign, to gauge employees’ knowledge. Weekly email newsletters raising awareness of various types of workplace harassment, employees’ rights, grievance mechanisms, and resources for conflict resolution were also disseminated to educate and empower, as part of this campaign. Forest Interactive’s #ItEndsNow campaign is more than just a statement; it is a battle cry against harassment and discrimination in the workplace.
Anti-Harassment Policies: Forest Interactive’s robust anti-harassment policies embody its unwavering commitment to protect and uplift every individual within its workforce. The zero-tolerance policy ensures that harassment has no place within the organization, fostering a culture of respect and inclusion.
Whistleblowing Policy: The whistleblowing policy is an embodiment of transparency and accountability. By empowering employees to report misconduct, the company ensures that no injustice goes unnoticed. The policy is already in progress through the cooperation with Corporate PR and People Operations.
Uniting a Diverse Workforce through Exemplary Leadership
All-Female Morocco Team: Forest Interactive showcases an all-female team in Morocco. This bold move challenges stereotypes and empowers women, creating a workforce that thrives on diversity and breaks barriers.
Female Representation in Upper Management: With 80% of its upper management positions occupied by women, Forest Interactive demonstrates its dedication to empowering talented individuals, irrespective of gender.
Diverse Work Culture: There are more than 20 different nationalities within the company, bringing in their valued unique perspective. This visionary culture fuels creativity, innovation, and collaboration among employees.
Accolades on Gender Equality: Forest Interactive is awarded second runner-up for the Community Engagement & Partnerships category at UN Women 2021 Malaysia Women Empowerment Principles (WEPs) Awards in 2021. Additionally, the company was shortlisted as a finalist for the Gender-Inclusive Workplace category. The following year, the UN Women Malaysia Women Empowerment Principles (WEPs) Awards recognized Forest Interactive CEO Johary Mustapha, with Malaysia’s Leadership Commitment Award. Our CEO, Johary Mustapha was the only CEO representing Southeast Asia in the United Nation’s CEO Roundtable held in New York to report our gender equity efforts at the workplace.
Career Development: Forest Interactive commits to nurturing the talents and aspirations of its workforce. Through training programs like LinkedIn Learning, mentorship opportunities in skills like project management and software development, and leadership development initiatives, the company empowers employees to reach their full potential. We fully utilize our meaningful partnerships such as with LeadWomen, as they conducted an experiential learning journey for our talents, mostly HODs, and team leaders to foster a culture of gender inclusion within their own teams and the whole business ecosystem.
Networking Events Open to All Talents: Talents have access to networking opportunities such as MWC Barcelona and Telemedia, skill-building workshops, and support systems to foster the growth and success of both women and men within the organization.
Knowledge Sharing Sessions: Departments initiate specific knowledge sharing sessions like the Creatives’ mentor-mentee program and Corporate PR’s “Could Would Should,” where the company encourages continuous learning and professional growth.
A Visionary Network for Lasting Impact
Committed to Women’s Aid Organisation (WAO) WePledge: Forest Interactive’s commitment to the Women’s Aid Organisation (WAO) WePledge demonstrates its visionary engagement in addressing gender-based violence and promoting gender equality. By standing alongside WAO, the company strengthens its resolve to drive change beyond its own walls.
Corporate Community Engagement: By actively engaging with organizations such as LeadWomen’s first Corporate Community. By actively engaging with other organizations, the company fosters collaboration, shares best practices, and contributes to building a more inclusive business ecosystem.
United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) Membership: Forest Interactive exemplifies its commitment through its membership in the United Nations Global Compact. By aligning its operations with UNGC’s sustainability principles and have our women leaders speak on their events, the company demonstrates its commitment to responsible business practices and driving positive social and environmental impact.
UNGC Roundtable Conference for CEOs: Our CEO being nominated for the UNGC Roundtable Conference for CEOs amplifies Forest Interactive’s voice in shaping sustainable and inclusive business practices on a global stage.
Dialogue Includes All for the Visually Impaired: Forest Interactive extends to inclusivity for all, including the visually impaired. Through the “Dialogue Includes All” program, the company creates opportunities for equal participation and access, breaking barriers and fostering a more inclusive society.
Hosting Internal Events for Female Talents: Forest Interactive hosts internal events that empower and celebrate its female talents. These events provide a supportive platform for networking, sharing experiences, and nurturing professional growth.
Conducting Events that are Vehicles for Inclusivity: Forest Interactive’s visionary engagement is evident in the events it conducts, serving as vehicles for inclusivity. These events foster understanding, celebrate diversity, and create opportunities for dialogue and collaboration among stakeholders. One of our notable engagements are with Speak Up Malaysia who came to educate us on workplace harassment and discrimination, and to raise awareness on how to identify and respond to such behaviours.
As Forest Interactive celebrates its 17th anniversary, it ignites a vision of inclusion, connects communities through visionary leadership, and engages stakeholders for lasting impact. Through these 17 visionary initiatives, the company continues to inspire the tech industry and beyond, driving a future where diversity, equity, and inclusion are embraced by all.
Founded in 2006, Forest Interactive develops scalable mobile platforms to connect mobile operators with their subscribers. With over 17 years of industry experience, Forest Interactive has expanded to include a diverse workforce of 20+ nationalities in 14 regional offices.
Delivering content subscription services, service delivery platforms, digital vouchers, e-commerce platforms, and mobile apps for all ages, Forest Interactive operates in more than 25+ countries, servicing 90+ mobile operators and 100+ content partners with the capacity to reach over one billion subscribers worldwide.
Visit forest-interactive.com to learn more.
Arvee Gomez
Media Relations Executive
ar*********@****************ve.com
by Ferry Bayu | Aug 9, 2023 | Business
Recircle Revolutionizes Recycling in Malaysia with Exciting Reward Program
Recircle, one of the most-used online recycling platforms in Malaysia, is taking recycling to the next level with its innovative approach to making recycling a rewarding experience. The company is thrilled to announce the expansion of its reward list, offering users a unique opportunity to be a part of the recycling revolution while reaping exciting benefits.
Recycling has never been this rewarding. With its newly enhanced reward list, Recircle is setting a new benchmark in the recycling industry by providing users with exclusive access to a wide range of offers, vouchers, and discounts from various partners. The company’s vision is to motivate more individuals to participate in recycling efforts while simultaneously enjoying tangible rewards.
The heart of the new program is the expanded reward list that offers users exclusive access to a range of offers, discounts, and vouchers from a variety of partners. The program’s inaugural partners include Apple services, a testament to Recircle’s commitment to offering premium benefits to its users right from the start.
By collaborating with local and national brands, Recircle aims to create a win-win situation. Users not only contribute to a cleaner environment but also gain access to exclusive offers and discounts. As Recircle expands its partner network, the platform is taking the opportunity to invite more brands to join the program, showcasing their concern and support for sustainability alongside Recircle.
Recircle’s approach is holistic, focusing not only on environmental consciousness but also on users’ overall well-being. In partnership with Swim Life Academy, the program offers free trial swimming lessons for Recircle users, promoting self-enrichment and health among Malaysians.

By encouraging recycling through rewarding incentives, the company hopes to inspire a greater number of people to actively participate in the recycling movement.
The expanded reward list was geared up starting in August 2023. This strategic move is poised to revolutionize the way Malaysians approach recycling, turning it into a habit that not only benefits the planet but also enhances their lives.
Established in 2018, we create an online recycling concept for the market. Our innovative mobile application aims to revolutionize the recycling industry in Malaysia by using technology to make recycling more accessible and convenient.
For more information, visit www.recircle.com.my
Google Play: https://bit.ly/2v0XB0S
App Store: https://apple.co/2EzrQvq
Lee Hillton
017-296 1012
le*****************@***il.com
by Ferry Bayu | Aug 9, 2023 | Business
Mitsubishi PH champions two causes in environment, education
by Ferry Bayu | Aug 8, 2023 | Business
FWD Startup Studio Accelerator Opens Applications for Asia-based Startups
FWD Startup Studio, in collaboration with 1337 Ventures, is thrilled to announce the 5th cohort of FWD Startup Studio Accelerator, a game-changing 13-week programme designed to catapult your insurtech or adjacent vertical startups to new heights. If you have a brilliant idea for a collaboration with FWD Insurance in Malaysia, this is an opportunity you don’t want to miss!
Application for FWD Startup Studio Accelerator Programme is now open, with a focus on Asia-based startups that are venture-backed in insurtech or adjacent verticals.
FWD Startup Studio, in collaboration with 1337 Ventures, is thrilled to announce the 5th cohort of FWD Startup Studio Accelerator, a game-changing 13-week programme designed to catapult your insurtech or adjacent vertical startups to new heights. If you have a brilliant idea for a collaboration with FWD Insurance in Malaysia, this is an opportunity you don’t want to miss!
The FWD Startup Studio Accelerator aims to bring together the brightest minds in the industry, fostering innovative collaborations and potentially leading to proofs of concept (POC). Aspiring startups seeking to enrich their ventures through a strategic partnership with FWD Insurance in Malaysia are encouraged to apply.
“Startups bring new ideas to traditional businesses and industries, which aligns closely with our vision of changing the way people feel about insurance. Through our Startup Studio Accelerator as well as TIM Ventures, our venture capital fund, we are keen to identify outstanding startups, work together with them and help them grow, leveraging on our presence in 10 markets across Asia,” said Ryan Kim, Group Chief Digital & Marketing Officer, FWD Group.
The accelerator programme offers a plethora of benefits for participating startups:
Industry expertise: Gain unprecedented access to decision-makers within FWD Insurance and esteemed mentors who can provide invaluable guidance, open doors to collaborations, and facilitate partnerships.
Acceleration of growth: Fast-track the development of your collaboration to a real proof of concept (POC) before the accelerator programme concludes, giving your startup the momentum it needs to thrive.
Fundraising opportunities: Connect with prominent investors such as TIM Ventures and 1337 Ventures, expanding your network within the investor community. Exceptional collaboration ideas may even unlock the potential for Venture Capital funding.
Access to customers and markets: Successfully piloting your idea in Malaysia could spark interest from other FWD branches in different countries, opening doors to new markets and potential scaling opportunities.
Resource support: Empower your startup with over USD 20K worth of credits on digital infrastructure and cloud services, providing essential resources to fuel your growth.
Networking and community: Join a vibrant community of like-minded entrepreneurs and global insurtech and adjacent vertical leaders, fostering meaningful connections that could propel your startup to new heights.

Bikesh Lakhmichand, Founding Partner of 1337 Ventures, stated, “The FWD Startup Studio Accelerator presents an incredible opportunity for startups to engage with FWD Insurance to explore a proof of concept (POC) solution and access to decision-makers and mentors within FWD Group. We are eager to support and witness the growth of promising startups in the insurtech and fintech space.”
Venture-backed seed stage Asia-based startups who are in the insurtech or adjacent verticals are encouraged to apply and develop a proof of concept (POC) design with FWD Malaysia.
The startups who participated in the previous cohorts have walked away from the accelerator better equipped to be game changers within their respective industries. Past participants include; BlueDuck, Kapitani, Finory, Betterteem, Koha, Safyer, Cashku, eHibah, CoreHalal, Du-It, Marion, Protos Labs, uPledge, Warantee and more.
Join us in an upcoming webinar on 17 August 2023, to learn more about this accelerator, RSVP at https://bit.ly/eventfwdc5
Applications are open now, and the deadline for submissions is 28 August 2023. FWD Startup Studio Accelerator will begin on 5 September 2023. For more information and to apply, please visit https://fwdstartupstudio.com/accelerator.
Established in 2012, 1337 Ventures is Malaysia’s first accelerator programme and early-stage accelerator. Pioneering the Design Thinking Methodology and Design Sprints in Malaysia, 1337 Ventures has utilised its learning to accelerate the growth of over 2,500 startups from 6 different countries. 1337 Ventures has launched accelerators for MNCs and GLCs such as Bank Negara Malaysia, Khazanah Nasional, Telekom, Digi, MDEC, CIMB and Maybank, to name a few. More recently, 1337 Ventures is proud to be one of the three new recipients of the Equity Crowdfunding license from the Securities Commission.
To find out more about 1337 Ventures, please visit www.1337.ventures.
About FWD Startup Studio
FWD Startup Studio is a leading innovation and accelerator platform that empowers startups to realise their full potential and drive transformative change in the insurance, takaful and adjacent sectors. With a commitment to fostering innovation, FWD Startup Studio provides startups with access to industry expertise, resources, and collaboration opportunities to accelerate their growth.
Shannon Chow
Head of Marketing, 1337 Ventures
sh*****@**37.ventures
by Ferry Bayu | Aug 8, 2023 | Business
Potato Corner’s new snack Harvest Chips supports Benguet farmers
MANILA, Philippines – Potato Corner recently launched its new snack offering Harvest Chips in partnership with community development organization Gawad Kalinga (GK).
The potatoes used for Harvest Chips are sourced locally from Benguet farmers. These are then processed into chips by workers in Gawad Kalinga’s Enchanted Farm located in Angat, Bulacan.
Gawad Kalinga has been assisting local farmers through their BayanAnihan program by “providing harvest inputs and training, supporting their production, administrative and logistics process, and connecting them to committed buyers.”
Luis Oquiñena, chairman of Gawad Kalinga, said the partnership with Potato Corner can create “sustainable pathways for our poorest farmers through Harvest Chips.”
Potato Corner started as a small food cart in 1992 and soon became one of the largest kiosk-based chains in the Philippines. It was acquired by Shakey’s Pizza Asia Ventures Incorporated in 2022.
“We hope that, given its scale and the platform Gawad Kalinga has provided, we can boost the income of Filipino potato farmers and make a positive impact in their lives,” said Vicente Gregorio, president and chief executive officer of Shakey’s Pizza, in a disclosure on Monday, August 7.
A limited time offering, Harvest Chips is available in Metro Manila, Rizal, and select kiosks in Luzon and Cebu for only P99.
by Ferry Bayu | Aug 8, 2023 | Business
SM Prime profit climbs 38 percent in H1
MANILA, Philippines — SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SM Prime), the Sy-led property developer, reported a net income of P19.4 billion in the first half of the year, up 38 percent from the P14.1 billion recorded a year ago.
This is supported by the 29 percent growth in consolidated revenues to P59.9 billion from P46.3 billion.
In the second quarter alone, net income grew by 49 percent to P10 billion from P6.7 billion last year.
This is on the back of a 39 percent growth in consolidated revenues to P31.2 billion from P22.5 billion in the same period being reviewed.
SM Prime’s Philippine mall business revenues grew by 30 percent in the second quarter to P16.1 billion from P12.4 billion last year. For the first half, revenues reached P31.5 billion, an increase of 53 percent.
On the other hand, SM Prime’s China mall business reported RMB398 million in revenues in the first six months or an improvement of $55 million from the previous year.
SM Prime’s primary residential business, led by SM Development Corp. (SMDC), registered P9.9 billion in revenues in the second quarter, 82 percent higher than P5.4 billion recorded in the same quarter last year.
SMDC recorded P68.5 billion in reservation sales, up 15 percent from P59.4 billion, translating to a 17 percent growth in unit sales in the first half.
The improving market condition provided local and overseas Filipino buyers capacity to invest in SM Prime’s residential projects.
SM Prime’s other business segments, which include offices, hotels, and convention centers, recorded a 40 percent growth in revenue to P6.2 billion in the first half.
The Sy-led listed property developer said that it remains committed to its role as a catalyst for economic growth, delivering innovative and sustainable lifestyle cities, thereby enriching the quality of life of millions of people. яндекс
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