by | Jul 17, 2025 | Business
Kuala Lumpur, 17 July 2025 – Enhance your expertise in refractory inspection and quality control. Join PetroSync’s API 936 Training and ensure thermal system reliability.
Why Refractory Standards Matter in High-Temperature Industries
Imagine standing near a furnace that reaches temperatures over 1,000°C. In industries like petrochemical, cement, and power generation, this is a daily reality. To withstand such extreme heat, refractory materials are installed—serving as the silent protectors of critical assets.
But here’s the catch: even a minor error in refractory design or installation can lead to equipment damage, production loss, and even serious safety incidents. That’s why global standards like API 936 exist—to ensure the quality, reliability, and safety of refractory applications.
If you’re involved in any part of refractory planning, inspection, or project execution, understanding these standards isn’t just “nice to have”—it’s essential.
Understanding the Core of API 936
The API 936 standard, developed by the American Petroleum Institute, provides critical guidelines for refractory material selection, installation, and inspection for equipment operating under high temperatures. This includes fired heaters, reformers, and other critical infrastructure used in refineries and process plants.
API 936 doesn’t just list material specifications. It also defines clear procedures for:
Evaluating refractory performance
Installation quality control
Pre-qualification testing and documentation
Inspector responsibilities and qualifications
In short, API 936 brings structure, accountability, and predictability to a field that historically relied heavily on experience and “tribal knowledge.”
Common Pitfalls Without Proper Knowledge
Many professionals find themselves thrust into refractory projects with little guidance beyond past practices. Maybe you’ve been in that situation—where you’re unsure whether the castable was mixed correctly, whether the dry-out schedule was too aggressive, or if the inspector was even qualified to sign off on the job.
Some of the most common mistakes in refractory work include:
Improper material selection
Non-compliance with curing/drying procedures
Inadequate anchoring systems
Poor inspection documentation
Unfortunately, these mistakes can lead to massive rework costs and downtime.
That’s why formal knowledge of API 936 is so valuable—it gives you a structured way to anticipate, prevent, and solve problems before they escalate.
How PetroSync’s API 936 Training Course Empowers Professionals
At PetroSync, we understand the gap between theoretical standards and real-world application. That’s why our API 936 training course is designed not just to teach the standard—but to make it practical, applicable, and relevant to your daily work.
Here’s what you’ll gain from the course:
A deep understanding of API 936 clauses and their implications
Real-life case studies of refractory failure and best practices
Insight from seasoned instructors with decades of field experience
Confidence to oversee refractory installations and inspections in compliance with global standards
Whether you’re an inspector, engineer, or project manager, this training gives you the tools to ensure your projects are compliant, efficient, and safe.
Plus, joining PetroSync means you’re part of a global network of professionals who take technical excellence seriously.
Start mastering refractory quality with confidence. Discover more about PetroSync and take the first step toward becoming a trusted expert in the field.
by | Jul 17, 2025 | Business
Doctor Anywhere Philippines makes it easier for Filipinos to see doctors online, with fully covered video consultations for members of partner HMOs and insurance companies.
MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Even after the pandemic, telemedicine remains a convenient option for Filipinos to see a doctor without leaving home.
Doctor Anywhere Philippines, launched in 2021, is part of a broader regional network led by Doctor Anywhere, a tech-led healthcare company headquartered in Singapore. The company operates across six Southeast Asian countries—Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines—bringing innovative health services to millions of users in the region.
In the Philippines, the Doctor Anywhere app has grown rapidly in the last four years. These online doctor consultations cover a wide range of health services—from 24/7 general practitioners, to specialist care, mental wellness support, and even prescription medication ordering and delivery, all managed through a single mobile app. Users of the Doctor Anywhere app can also access online medical documents, such as medical certificates, prescriptions, and referral letters, when deemed necessary by the doctor after their online consultation.
Many common medical concerns can be addressed through video consultations, including fever, coughs and colds, allergies, skin conditions, and other non-emergency cases. Even chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension can be effectively managed remotely through regular check-ins and digital prescriptions. This makes the Doctor Anywhere app a practical option for common health concerns that don’t require a hospital or clinic visit.
By connecting patients directly to licensed doctors through their smartphones, Doctor Anywhere Philippines removes inconvenient barriers to healthcare such as long travel and wait times, clinic queues, and the need for paperwork. The app offers a fast, secure, and reliable way to consult with doctors anytime, anywhere, and for many users, these services are already fully covered by their HMO or insurance account.
At its core, Doctor Anywhere’s mission is to bring quality, accessible healthcare to Filipinos, whether they live in busy urban centers or underserved rural communities.
Online Doctor Consultations Covered by HMOs and Insurances
One of the most practical features of Doctor Anywhere Philippines is its integration with leading health maintenance organizations (HMOs) and insurance companies. All members of Doctor Anywhere Philippines’ partner HMOs and insurances can simply link their membership account in the app, and online consultations are fully covered—no letter of authorization (LOA) or reimbursement process required.
Here’s a list of HMOs and insurances whose members can access fully covered video consultations with 24/7 general practitioners and a wide range of specialists through the Doctor Anywhere Philippines app:
-AMAPHIL
-COCOLIFE Healthcare*
-Eastwest Healthcare
-Etiqa Life & General Assurance Philippines, Inc.
-Flexicare
-Forticare Health Systems International, Inc.
-Fortune Life
-Generali
-Health Maintenance, Inc. (HMI)*
-Lacson and Lacson Insurance Brokers
-Manulife Medical Secure**
-Manulife HealthFlex***
-Manulife Chinabank Life Assurance Medical Secure**
-Manulife Chinabank Life Assurance HealthFlex***
-Maxicare
-MedAsia Philippines
-Medicare Plus
-MI Healthcare Inc.
-Sun Life Grepa
-WellCare Health Maintenance
*With fully covered video consultations with 24/7 general practitioners only through the Doctor Anywhere app. Consultations with mental health experts are available at discounted rates.
**With fully covered video consultations with 24/7 general practitioners only through the Doctor Anywhere app. Consultations with specialists and mental health experts are available at discounted rates.
***With four fully covered video consultations with 24/7 general practitioners only through the Doctor Anywhere app. Consultations with specialists, mental health experts and additional general practitioners are available at discounted rates.
Convenient Online Consultations
Doctor Anywhere Philippines simplifies what has traditionally been a time-consuming and often frustrating process. Instead of waiting hours or days for an appointment, users can connect with a licensed doctor in five minutes or less through the app. General practitioners are available 24/7, including holidays, for on-demand video consultations.
The Doctor Anywhere app also allows users to schedule consultations with a wide range of specialists based on their preferred date and time, including dermatologists, endocrinologists, Ears, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialists, gastroenterologists, general surgeons, hematologists, infectious disease doctors, oncologists, ophthalmologists (eye doctor), orthopedic surgeons, rehabilitation medicine specialists, rheumatologists, and urologists. This is especially helpful for patients who require more focused care or ongoing treatment, but may find it difficult to visit a clinic due to busy schedules or distant locations.
In addition to physical health concerns, Doctor Anywhere Philippines is seeing a rise in demand for its online mental health services. Many Filipinos are now more open to seeking professional help for issues such as stress, anxiety, depression, and work-related burnout. The app connects users to licensed psychologists in a secure, virtual session, making it easier for individuals to access the support they need without stigma or hassle.
To support treatment and continuity of care, Doctor Anywhere also offers in-app medication delivery. After a doctor consultation, users can conveniently purchase prescribed medicines directly through the app, ensuring timely access to necessary medications without needing to go out and visit a pharmacy.
Every consultation is conducted via secure video call, and users receive their online medical documents right after the session, when medically necessary, at the discretion of doctors. These include:
-Medical certificates
-Prescriptions
-Referral letters for further medical care or lab procedures
All online medical documents are securely stored within the Doctor Anywhere app. Each file is password-protected and accessible only through the user’s account, ensuring confidentiality and data privacy at all times.
Having these medical documents readily available in one place is especially helpful for users who may need to revisit prescriptions, track their medical history, or submit health-related documents for work, school, or travel.
Getting Started: How to Use Doctor Anywhere Philippines
Getting started with Doctor Anywhere Philippines is quick and easy. All you need is a smartphone and a stable internet connection. Whether you’re at home, in the office, or on the go, you can access healthcare services through the app in just a few minutes. For the best experience, find a quiet, well-lit space where you and your doctor can see and hear each other clearly. This helps ensure smooth communication and allows your doctor to assess your symptoms and explain medical concerns more accurately.
Here’s how to begin:
- Download the free Doctor Anywhere app on the App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android), or scan the QR code in the image.
- On the Home screen, tap “Continue” under “Membership & Health Plan”. Choose “Link Membership”, search for your HMO or insurance, and enter your membership details.
- Once linked, you can access fully covered 24/7 video consultations with accredited doctors.
Coverage for specialist and mental health consultations may vary depending on your plan, so it’s best to confirm with your HMO or insurance company before booking an appointment.
What If You Don’t Have an HMO or Insurance?
For Filipinos without health coverage, Doctor Anywhere Philippines offers DA Healthwise, an annual health plan for only ₱99 per year. It gives users access to discounted, unlimited online consultations with general practitioners, specialists, and mental health experts for 12 months. Users only pay the discounted rate when they book an online consultation, unlike traditional health insurance, which charges fixed monthly premiums whether or not services are used.
This flexible plan is an ideal option for freelancers, small business owners, students, and anyone looking for affordable healthcare coverage. It’s a simple way to stay on top of your health without worrying about high costs or complicated insurance processes.
Enhanced Healthcare In The Philippines
Whether you have health insurance or not, and whether you’re in the city or the province, Doctor Anywhere Philippines makes it easier to see a doctor online when you need one. You don’t have to deal with traffic, long waiting times, or extra paperwork. With 24/7 online consultations including holidays, no LOA needed, and a growing list of HMO partners, the app offers a more convenient and user-friendly way to access healthcare.
Download the free Doctor Anywhere app today and link your HMO or insurance account to access your health benefits, or explore affordable options with DA Healthwise.
by | Jul 17, 2025 | Business
Wacom MovinkPad 11 is a breakthrough portable creative pad that redefines what a digital drawing device can be. Unlike entertainment-focused tablets, it’s built to capture inspiration the moment it strikes and help users dive into drawing—anytime, anywhere. Its Quick drawing function and seamless workflow keep creativity flowing from the start.
TOKYO
– July 17, 2025 – Today Wacom unveils Wacom MovinkPad 11, an all-in-one
creative pad that brings drawing into daily life with ease. Whether sketching
for fun or capturing inspiration, this device makes it easy to start drawing
right away. Designed for instant creativity, it’s ready the moment you pick up
the pen, running Android 14 for a familiar, intuitive experience.
No Limits. Just Draw.
Not
just another tablet, the Wacom MovinkPad 11 is designed to make digital drawing
simple and fun from day one. It includes everything needed to start drawing—no
PC, no setup, just a digital pen and canvas. Its lightweight body features an
11.45-inch multi-touch display with anti-glare etched glass that reduces
reflections and keeps you focused. It comes with the battery-free Wacom Pro Pen
3, widely used and trusted by professionals across creative industries, for its
precision and a natural drawing feel. With a tap and brief hold of the pen, the
device wakes up and is ready when inspiration strikes.
Whether
at home, at school, in a café, or on the road, the Wacom MovinkPad 11 fits
easily into everyday creative moments.
“The
Wacom MovinkPad 11 is for people who just can’t stop drawing,” said Koji Yano,
Senior Vice President, Wacom Branded Business. “Whether you love to doodle
between classes or are moving up from drawing on a smartphone screen, this
portable creative pad makes it easier and more fun to just draw. And this is
just the beginning—stay tuned for what’s to come in the portable creative pad
series.”
Creative Apps to Get Started
The
included Wacom Canvas app supports freehand sketching and light illustration. A
two-year license of Clip Studio Paint DEBUT—an entry version of the app used by
creative professionals—offers an easy start with 40,000+ brushes, and features
for comics, 3D, and animation.
The Quick drawing function
makes starting easy. Just tap and hold the pen on the screen to launch Wacom
Canvas and start sketching right away. A tap takes you into Clip Studio Paint
to refine your work, which is saved automatically to Wacom Shelf.
“The
Wacom MovinkPad 11 is poised to be a comfortable digital canvas for everyone,
from those exploring digital art to those engaged in creative work,” said
Tetsuya Kobayashi, Executive Officer at Celsys. “Paired with Clip Studio Paint,
it offers a refined, intuitive creative experience wherever creativity takes
you.”
Customize Your Setup
with Pens and Accessories
In
addition to Wacom Pro Pen 3, it also supports digital pens from familiar stationery
brands like Dr. Grip, LAMY, and STAEDTLER, offering options to match your
personal style. The Wacom MovinkPad 11 Case with Stand is also available,
designed to protect your device and double as a stand for comfortable drawing
angles.
The Wacom MovinkPad 11 is
coming this summer. To learn more about the product, visit: https://www.wacom.com/products/portable-pad/wacom-movinkpad-11
by | Jul 17, 2025 | Business
As XRP climbs towards $3 and Bitcoin surpasses $120,000, global investors are seeking reliable ways to profit from crypto’s growth without price exposure risks. UK-based BTC Miner, a leading cloud mining platform, now offers a powerful alternative: guaranteed daily USD returns, fully protected by Tier-1 bank custody and SSL-encrypted data security, with no need for mining equipment or technical expertise.
BTC Miner allows investors to easily convert XRP, BTC, ETH, or USDT deposits into daily passive income, all tracked in USD. This model eliminates crypto volatility risks while delivering stable, predictable returns from real-world, green-energy-powered mining farms.
BTC Miner Platform Highlights:
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Why BTC Miner Stands Out:
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by | Jul 16, 2025 | Business
Primary producers across Australia have the opportunity to expand their knowledge, free of charge, at Rabo Client Council online workshops designed to help provide the financial skills essential to managing an agricultural enterprise.
The practical Financial Skills Workshops will be held online in August and September.
The initiative – which provides farmers with an opportunity to upskill – has been led and funded by food and agribusiness banking specialist Rabobank’s Rabo Client Councils, a group of innovative, forward-thinking farming clients who are passionate about making a difference in their communities and support a range of activities designed to make a meaningful impact on the vibrancy and resilience of rural Australia.
Offered at no cost to participants, the interactive workshops provide practical, hands-on information on understanding financial statements and banking requirements and explore topics such as taxation versus management accounting, essential business management ratios and understanding key components of a business’s financial profile.
Rabobank head of community and client engagement Glenn Wealands said the workshops, which are specifically designed for farm owners and managers, aim to enhance participants’ financial knowledge and expertise.
Mr Wealands said the workshops were being offered online to provide an alternative to the ongoing face-to-face program of Financial Skills Workshops that continue to be rolled out nationwide. “This recognises the challenges that some farmers may face in taking time away from their operations, or being in remote locations where they are unable to attend any of the workshops in person,” he said.
The online workshops will be delivered in two half day sessions, with Module One – which focuses on understanding how to read, interpret and use financial reports – held across Thursday August 14 and Friday August 15, 2025.
Module Two workshops – which focus on gross margin analysis, a critical step in farm planning and decision making – will be held on Thursday September 11 and Friday September 12, 2025.
Mr Wealands said the Module Two workshops would take an enterprise-focused approach, with content tailored to suit the operations of participants. “We will consider cash flow implications for these enterprise choices and explore preparing annual cash flow budgets,” he said.
Mr Wealands said past attendees had found the Financial Skills Workshop information valuable and immediately applicable to their businesses.
“Since launching in 2018, the Rabo Client Councils have so far extended this valuable learning opportunity to over 5,000 farmers across Australia and New Zealand,” he said.
The virtual workshops will be presented by director of Hudson Facilitation, Tony Hudson.
Online workshop dates:
Measuring Financial Performance workshop
Thursday 14 and Friday 15 August 2025
East Coast: 8.50am to 12.00pm AESTCentral: 8.20am to 11.30am ACSTWest Coast: 6.50am to 10.00am AWST
Gross Margin Analysis and Cash Flow Budgeting workshop
Thursday 11 and Friday 12 September 2025
East Coast: 8.50am to 12.00pm AESTCentral: 8.20am to 11.30am ACSTWest Coast: 6.50am to 10.00am AWST
To register to participate, please visit the Rabobank website or click here.
by Penny Angeles-Tan | Jul 16, 2025 | Events
The Manila Hotel, in partnership with Designers Circle Philippines (DCP), presents Timeless, an exhibit of modern Filipiniana bridal gowns, on display at the hotel’s iconic Grand Lobby until August 7, 2025.
Timeless celebrates the elegance of the Filipino love story by showcasing the work of nine esteemed designers from DCP: Edwin Uy, Rafael Gonzales, Bepz Torres, Joy Aaliwin, Laura Santos, Alistair Balane, Ganda Anore, Will Salvador, and Johnny Abad. Each designer presents a unique interpretation of the traditional Filipiniana silhouette, reimagined with contemporary sophistication. The exhibit features voluminous ruffles, intricate beadwork, modern necklines, and romantic lace, highlighting the evolving artistry of Filipino bridal fashion.
“This is the first time The Manila Hotel and Designers Circle Philippines have partnered in an all-Filipiniana bridal exhibit. The collection honors heritage while embracing innovation, reflecting the same values that The Manila Hotel upholds. As the Grand Dame of the Philippines, we continue to champion Filipino artistry and cultural pride while adapting to the tastes of the modern generation,” said Marvin Kim Tan, vice president for sales and marketing of The Manila Hotel.
Set beneath the chandeliers and arches of the historic Grand Lobby, Timeless invites brides-to-be, fashion enthusiasts, and culture lovers to witness the craftsmanship of modern Filipino design.
Timeless is on display at the Grand Lobby until August 7, 2025. Admission is free.
About The Manila Hotel
The Manila Hotel is situated next to kilometer zero (0), marking the official starting point of the City of Manila. It is conveniently located within walking distance of several well-known landmarks in the Philippines, including Rizal Park, Intramuros, and the National Museums. Renowned for its rich history, elegance, and exceptional service, The Manila Hotel has been a preferred choice for distinguished guests since 1912.
The hotel features over 500 well-appointed rooms and 22 function rooms, including three grand ballrooms. Guests can enjoy five-star relaxation and wellness services at the Manila Hotel Spa, access to adult and children’s pools, and the Manila Hotel Health Club. Additionally, the hotel houses the Heritage Museum, which showcases priceless memories that reflect its illustrious past, as well as an art gallery that offers insight into contemporary perspectives through the works of various artists.
Dining options at The Manila Hotel are diverse, with six unique outlets providing a culinary adventure:
- Café Ilang-Ilang, popular for its extensive international buffet offerings;
- Champagne Room, known for its Old European-style fine dining and often regarded as the most romantic dining space in Manila, features exquisite European cuisine;
- Tap Room, an Old English pub-inspired venue where guests can enjoy live music in the evenings;
- Lobby Lounge, perfect for casual dining, aperitifs, post-dinner nightcaps, or leisure meetings;
- Red Jade, a fine dining restaurant specializing in authentic Chinese cuisine; and
- Delicatessen, which showcases the hotel’s signature pastries, breads, chocolates, and pralines.
The Manila Hotel offers a memorable experience through its unparalleled service and luxurious accommodations.
by | Jul 16, 2025 | Business
The second phase of ASEAN Sparks, Catalyse, officially started with the open call for clean energy and climate tech startups until 20 July 2025! Consisting of extensive workshops and mentoring sessions in August until October 2025, Catalyse aims to support startups in achieving exponential growth and opens a path for startups to pitch their innovation in the international stage of ASEAN Energy Business Forum 2025.
The ASEAN Centre for Energy (ACE), in partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), supported by the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF) and the Ministry Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) of Japan, has officially opened applications for the next phase of its startup accelerator programme, ASEAN Sparks: Catalyse. The programme targets startups across Southeast Asia working on energy efficiency, renewable energy, clean energy, and other climate technology innovators in ASEAN.
Following the successful completion of the first phase, Ignite, which engaged 40 early-stage startups in foundational workshops and mentoring, ASEAN Sparks: Catalyse serves as the next critical step in the program journey.
“Many startups in ASEAN face limited access to the support they deserve, making it difficult for them to transition from early-stage development to commercial success,” said Dr Zulfikar Yurnaidi, Acting Manager of Energy Efficiency and Conservation (CEE) Department, of the ASEAN Centre for Energy.
He added, “Catalyse is designed to address these gaps between the startups and the support from the whole energy ecosystem stakeholders. Another important goal of the programme is to strengthen the capacity of local stakeholders to foster a sustainable climate technology innovation ecosystem.”
While Ignite focused on helping startups refine their business fundamentals and validate their energy solutions, Catalyse offers a deeper, more targeted accelerator experience for more mature startups. Over the course of three months, selected startups will benefit from:
- Extensive workshop sessions covering key topics from business strategy and market expansion to IP strategy and social impact.
- In-depth development with dedicated mentors, tailored to each startup’s needs.
- Pitch at the ASEAN Energy Business Forum (AEBF) 2025, where the 20 selected startups will present their solutions to a high-level audience of energy policymakers, investors, and industry leaders.
This second phase ensures that startups not only build on the insights gained during Ignite but also gain the strategic tools and exposure needed to scale regionally and beyond.
ASEAN Sparks: Catalyse is calling for startups in the pre-seed to pre-series A stage to join the movement and shape the future of ASEAN’s energy ecosystem.
Visit go.aseanenergy.org/ApplySPARKS for more details and reserve your spot in the programme.
by | Jul 16, 2025 | Business
KOLTIVA has appointed Joe Keen Poon as Executive Chairman, marking a strategic milestone in its global leadership in sustainable agriculture and supply chain traceability. Joe’s leadership reinforces KOLTIVA’s role as a key partner for companies seeking to meet global regulations like the EUDR, offering end-to-end solutions that combine geospatial digital traceability with on-the-ground support for smallholders to ensure sustainability from farm to final product. 
In a major move underscoring its growing global presence in sustainable agriculture and supply chain traceability, the Indonesia-Swiss-based, venture-backed AgriTech firm KOLTIVA has named Joe Keen Poon as its new Executive Chairman. Announced earlier today, the appointment marks a strategic milestone in KOLTIVA’s continued international leadership trajectory.
This pivotal leadership marks a defining moment in KOLTIVA’s journey as the company accelerates its mission to build inclusive, deforestation-free, and fully traceable supply chains—aligning with emerging global regulations such as the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), CSDDD, CSRD, and other rising demands for environmental, social, and governance (ESG) compliance.
The appointment of Joe Keen Poon as Executive Chairman reinforces KOLTIVA’s unwavering commitment to sustainability, transparency, and innovation in agriculture. A seasoned global executive, Joe brings over 30 years of experience scaling purpose-driven technology and sustainability ventures. His leadership credentials span top-tier organizations, including Microsoft, Deloitte, Surbana Jurong, and, most recently, as Group CEO of the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM).
The Executive Chairman will play a central role in strengthening governance, unlocking investment pathways, and ensuring that KOLTIVA’s solutions remain scalable, secure, and rooted in impact. His appointment signals KOLTIVA’s next chapter: leveraging advanced analytics to deliver not just transparency — but foresight and resilience — in agricultural supply chains.
Founded in 2013, KOLTIVA has rapidly evolved into one of the most trusted technology partners in agriculture, working with over 1,9 million producers across 65 countries. Its integrated ecosystem—ranging from traceability platforms, capacity building as an extension services with in person field-training through its extensive agronomist network and digital payment tools to smallholder training programs—has become vital to agri businesses, enterprises and suppliers navigating today’s complex sustainability challenges.
As Executive Chairman, Joe will help KOLTIVA sharpen its long-term vision, deepen its impact across supply chains, and shape future partnerships that align with its triple-bottom-line: People, Planet, and Profit. “KOLTIVA is uniquely positioned at the intersection of agriculture, climate action, financial inclusion and digital transformation,” said Joe Keen Poon. “Joining this team is not only a professional honor—it’s an impact-commitment to reshaping how the world sources its food and raw materials, while supporting the rural smallholders who grow them.”
Joe Keen Poon will collaborate closely with the CEO and Co-Founder, Manfred Borer and the broader leadership team to strengthen KOLTIVA’s presence across key regions—including Indonesia, Asia-Pacific, the Americas, Europe and the Middle East, and Africa—strategic markets essential to the future of sustainable sourcing.
“We’ve built a strong foundation rooted in data integrity, human-centered technology intelligence, field operations, and client trust,” said Manfred Borer, CEO of KOLTIVA. “Now, we’re scaling. With Joe Keen Poon on board, we gain a partner with the global foresight and experience to guide us through this next chapter—one that will see us expand across continents while remaining deeply connected to rural farming communities.”
While the appointment brings fresh global perspectives, it also underscores continuity in KOLTIVA’s mission and values. The company remains deeply focused on enabling ethical sourcing, smallholders inclusion, and climate resilience through technology and on-the-ground presence. KOLTIVA’s approach remains unique in its integration of field expertise and digital traceability—a model that has won recognition from global enterprises, government institutions, public-private partnership, non-government organization to climate-impact driven investors.
“As regulatory landscapes shift, particularly with the introduction of the EU Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), companies across the globe are under pressure to verify the legality and sustainability of their raw material sources. KOLTIVA has been at the forefront of this movement, enabling full end-to-end traceability and polygon-based geospatial verification for commodities including palm oil, rubber, cocoa, and coffee.” Joe Keen Poon. “What drew me to this role was not just the technology, but the company’s relentless focus on empowering producers and building trust between stakeholders. That’s where true sustainability begins.”
by | Jul 16, 2025 | Business
Kuala Lumpur, 16 July 2025 – Ensure your storage tanks meet industry standards. PetroSync’s API 653 Training helps you lead inspection and compliance with confidence.
Have You Ever Wondered If Your Storage Tanks Are Truly Safe?
Imagine walking through your facility one quiet morning, hearing the subtle hum of operations and seeing your storage tanks standing firm — as they always have. But beneath that calm surface, undetected corrosion, settlement, or weld defects could be silently growing. You’re not alone in this concern. Many engineers and plant managers ask themselves: “How do I really know if my storage tanks are still reliable?”
Aboveground storage tanks (ASTs) are often out of sight and, unfortunately, out of mind — until it’s too late. A single failure could lead to catastrophic spills, environmental damage, and millions in losses. That’s why regular, qualified inspections are not just important — they’re essential.
And this is where the API 653 standard comes into play.
API 653: The Inspection Code That Could Save Millions
API 653 is more than a set of guidelines. It’s a powerful inspection standard developed by the American Petroleum Institute specifically for aboveground storage tanks. It covers critical areas such as tank inspection, repair, alteration, and reconstruction — ensuring structural integrity and compliance with best practices.
Here are a few eye-opening facts:
According to NACE International, corrosion-related failures in storage tanks cost the industry over $7 billion annually.
Improper or missed inspections have been cited in over 80% of major tank-related incidents.
Tanks older than 20 years without API 653-compliant inspections are at significantly higher risk of failure.
Following API 653 ensures your tanks meet safety and environmental standards — but more importantly, it gives you peace of mind.
From Confusion to Confidence: Your API 653 Learning Journey
Reading the API 653 codebook might feel overwhelming. It’s technical, dense, and filled with detailed engineering requirements. But don’t worry — you don’t need to navigate it alone.
Through the API 653 training course, you’ll learn how to:
Evaluate tank shell integrity, roof structures, and bottom plates
Calculate corrosion rates and remaining life
Interpret inspection intervals and repair criteria
Prepare for the API 653 certification exam with real-world case studies
At PetroSync, we understand that every professional learns differently. That’s why our courses are designed with a hands-on approach, combining theory with actual inspection scenarios, so you’re not just memorizing codes — you’re applying them.
Whether you’re a fresh inspector, a reliability engineer, or a seasoned plant manager, this training helps transform confusion into clarity.
Why Professionals Choose PetroSync for Their API 653 Training
There are dozens of training providers out there — so why do industry professionals consistently choose PetroSync?
Here’s what sets us apart:
Expert Instructors: Our trainers are certified professionals with decades of inspection experience.
Interactive Format: Engage with practical case studies, mock exams, and live discussions.
Globally Recognized Certification Prep: Boost your chances of passing the API 653 exam on your first try.
Career Advantage: Many of our alumni have gone on to secure key roles in top energy companies after completing our course.
Joining PetroSync is not just about attending a class — it’s about investing in your professional growth, earning industry respect, and making a real impact in your organization.
by | Jul 16, 2025 | Business
Asuene Inc. has officially completed the business transfer and M&A of “Sustana,” the greenhouse gas (GHG) accounting cloud service formerly provided by Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC), following all necessary regulatory approvals. The transaction was finalized on July 15, 2025.
Effective July 16, 2025, SMBC has also begun referral based sales of Asuene’s flagship carbon accounting platform “ASUENE” to its corporate clients in Japan. “ASUENE” supports businesses in measuring, reducing, and reporting GHG emissions.
Through this partnership, Asuene and SMBC aim to help meet the growing demand for advanced decarbonization and ESG management solutions in Japan and globally—driving both corporate value and a more sustainable society.
Sustana Business Integration and Future Plans
Asuene announced in May 2025 its intention to acquire SMBC’s “Sustana” and integrate the platform with its own carbon accounting platform “ASUENE.” The acquisition, part of a broader capital and business alliance with the SMBC Group, was completed on July 15, 2025.
Starting July 16, SMBC will be able to start introducing “ASUENE” to their clients and partners and will be able to handle “ASUENE” as an intermediary. Decarbonization and sustainability related needs of domestic and overseas customers are shifting from the company level to the supply chain level and are growing increasingly sophisticated and complex.
To meet these needs, both companies will combine ASUENE’s advanced system development and customer support capabilities with the comprehensive financial capabilities and domestic and overseas networks of the SMBC Group to strengthen support for corporate decarbonization management and help maximize corporate value.
Following the transfer, “Sustana” will continue to operate as part of Asuene’s service offerings for the time being. Full integration into “ASUENE” is scheduled within the next year, allowing Asuene to deliver even more advanced solutions for the evolving decarbonization and ESG needs of companies worldwide.
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