Combining Health Benefits with Great Tasting Bread
SUNGAI BULOH, July 7, 2021 – The Italian Baker Sdn. Bhd., makers of Massimo breads and baked goods, has created an artisanal multigrain loaf enriched with a nutritious blend of premium Canadian barley, flaxseed, chia seed, sunflower seed and black sesame, which are packed with vitamins and minerals. Available for a limited time only, the Seeded Multigrain with Barley artisanal loaf from Massimo offers a refined balance between its soft, dense breads and deliciously crunchy grains.
While Massimo has a selection of great-tasting and healthy sandwich loaves that provides wholesome goodness such as Sandwich Loaf with Wheat Germ, 100% Wholewheat Loaf, Fine Wholemeal, the brand wanted to give consumers more bread options including traditional artisanal loaves and more functional grains.
The Italian Baker Sdn Bhd, Chairman, Mr Jeremy Goon
Chairman of The Italian Baker Sdn. Bhd., Jeremy Goon stated, “We are excited to introduce our first artisanal sandwich loaf that serves up a winning combination of our fine bread-making tradition and the unique taste and well-researched functional food benefits of barley.”
The artisanal Massimo Seeded Multigrain with Barley loaf
Barley is a fiber-rich superfood that is high in antioxidant-rich tocotrienols and cholesterol-busting beta-glucans. Regular consumption of barley as part of a healthy diet has been shown to aid in boosting the immune system, weight management, improving digestion and gut health, lowering cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease, and protecting against diabetes. Loaves made of barley have an ancient history in the Middle East where it was revered as a staple food.
He added, “Bread consumption has increased among Malaysians, who are mostly staying home to protect themselves and their loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic. Embracing a nutritious diet is essential for us to continue staying healthy, especially given our current circumstances where we are eating at home more often. Hence, our bakers, food scientists, nutritionists and research and development team worked closely together to develop our first-ever artisanal multigrain loaf by carefully balancing between nutrition and taste.”
The Massimo team collected and analyzed relevant consumer data and key learnings from the first Malaysian Movement Control Order (MCO 1.0) as well as from various Malaysian health statistics, including the National Health and Morbidity (NHMS) 2019[1]. The Massimo Seeded Multigrain with Barley loaf was then developed to cultivate healthier eating habits while continuing to satiate the cravings and palate of Malaysians.
Since its introduction in 2011, Massimo has become a Malaysian staple, providing wholesome goodness through a variety of bread baked using quality ingredients under stringent quality assurance to delight consumers with its deliciously healthy taste, and to give them peace of mind with its tamper-evident packaging.
The artisanal Massimo Seeded Multigrain with Barley loaf (360g), which is an ideal choice for sandwiches, toast or simply on its own, is available at most retailers at RM4.90. Available for a limited time only, grab a slice of its golden goodness today.
Smecta tackles taboo subject at the anti-diarrhoeal event
Kuala Lumpur, 7 July 2021: Most, if not all of us, have experienced diarrhoea at various points in our lives. In spite of its wide prevalence, many are uncomfortable to talk about it, viewing it as a “gross” or “dirty” topic. Others, may be embarrassed to relate their own experience or seek out practical solutions. As a result, many just painfully “let nature take its course” and treat themselves in ways which may not have proven efficacy.
Diarrhoea is a bigger problem that most are willing to admit. It certainly warrants more attention, as recurring episodes of diarrhoea can affect our lives, not only physically but emotionally and socially. Besides health threats, diarrhoea also causes lower productivity in the workplace, decreasing self-confidence and impeding social lives.
These were some of the issues addressed at the recent “Take a Stand with Smecta” virtual media event. Fortunately, there are various medical solutions to treat and provide relief for diarrhoea such as diosmectite, a natural edible clay. Smecta (diosmectite) is an oral suspension that can be used for adults and childrenabove 2 years old for symptomatic treatment of acute diarrhoea. It forms a protective layer on the intestine for faster recovery of damaged intestinal lining due to diarrhoea.
Smecta is a product by IPSEN, a French pharmaceutical company and distributed exclusively by EP Plus Group in Malaysia. It has been in the global market for 45 years and is well-known in Malaysia for its Orange & Vanilla flavour anti-diarrhoeal. The brand highlighted SmectaGo at the media event. The caramel-cocoa flavoured SmectaGo oral suspension in sachet, is specially designed for people with busy lifestyles and constantly on the go. Smecta is also marketing its Smecta Strawberry and Orange-Vanilla flavoured powder sachet, which is suitable for both adults and children.
Mr. Tse-Ming Pang, Founder & Group Managing Director of EP Plus Group
Speaking at the event, “Diarrhoea is a common disease that we would encounter in our lives”, said Mr. Tse-Ming Pang, Founder & Group Managing Director of EP Plus Group. “In line with the value proposition of SmectaGo, we aim to raise awareness on diarrhoea and encourage Malaysians to Take A Stand – it is no longer an embarrassment!”, he further added.
The event hosted by Shing Queen, also sought to encourage Malaysians to rightfully “Take a Stand” against diarrhoea by dealing with the problem head-on.
However, it is better to nip the problem in the bud, rather than allow diarrhoea to linger and adversely affect us. The good news is that there are numerous medically-proven and safe treatments available. Some of these are available at all leading pharmacies and clinics, like Smecta.
“SmectaGo comes in a ready-to-drink formula. It is specially formulated to provide convenience to people with busy lifestyles. It comes in handy packaging and can be easily carried on the go,” added Mr Pang.
Echoing Mr Pang’s sentiments was English traveller and TV host, “Mat Dan” @ Daniel Tyler, who has made Malaysia his home since 2009.
“Speaking as a foreigner who has settled down in Malaysia, it is understandable that Malaysians tend to shy away from topics such as diarrhoea. However, this is a problem which affects almost everyone at some point,” he explained.
With just a little more public awareness, we can better combat diarrhoea as a community. Just like a headache or fever, we will take medicine as a common practice. So why should diarrhoea be any different? It is advisable to use medical solutions like Smecta and get on with our lives in a healthy and productive way. Don’t let diarrhoea cramp your lifestyle.
So, isn’t it about time we “Take a Stand” against diarrhoea by effectively and safely harnessing Smecta? All variants of Smecta including SmectaGo,SmectaStrawberry and Orange-Vanilla flavoured sachet are available over-the-counter at leading pharmacies and clinics around the country.
Members of the public are also invited to be part of the virtual public event for SmectaGo and Smecta Strawberry on 8th July 2021, Thursday at 8pm via Smecta Malaysia’s Facebook Live. It will feature comedy acts by Joanne Kam, Kavin Jay and Papi Zak, hosted by Douglas Lim on diarrhoea and related humorous topics. Mark your calendars today! More details about the public event and Smecta can be found at www.facebook.com/smectamalaysia.
Mondelez, the company behind the popular Cadbury, Jacob’s and Tiger brands, has launched Jacob’s Baked Crisps in Malaysia. The new Jacob’s Baked Crisps are available in three flavours Original, Cheddar and Sour Cream.
The company is extending the popular Jacob’s cracker brand into the baked crisps segment to improve its snackability, while retaining its healthy preposition with baked not fried.
The price for the 229g pack is RM 9.70 on Mondelez official store on Shopee Malaysia. Click here to purchase.
Thai bakery company President Bakery Public Company has collaborated with Ovaltine to launch two new co-branded products under its Farmhouse brand featuring Ovaltine to deliver the crunchy texture. The new products are in the forms of dorayaki and bun filled with Ovaltine. The price per pack is THB 12.
We have seen brands teaming up with Ovaltine in biscuit and in ice cream. This proves the versatility of the Ovaltine brand in various food application and the ability to create more moments of indulgence for Ovaltine beyond the drink category.
Lyre’s introduces pre-mixed non-alcoholic cocktails to sip on the go without the hangover in tow
6 July 2021, Singapore – Non-alcoholic spirits brandLyre’slaunches itsready-to-drink cocktails in a canin Singapore offering a convenient solution to mindful drinking. Available in Singapore at select Cold Storage outlets and on Lyre’s e-commerce site, the new cans offer imbibers the freedom of choice to enjoy their drink anytime, anywhere. With three flavours available including the category-defining, award-winningAmalfi Spritz,the pre-mixed creations join 13 other non-alcoholic spirits from Lyre’s which are designed to make an endless variety of drinks.
The range offers three pre-mixed drink styles crafted to look, taste and sashay around the palate, just like the original summer’s cocktail favourites, including theG&T, Amalfi SpritzandClassico. To complement the non-alcoholic benefit, this trio of tipples are vegan, nut and gluten-free with ultra-low calories, with less than 69 calories per can. Easy to enjoy straight out of the chilled can, these versatile refreshments can also be served over ice and garnished for an elevated serve.
Lyre’s Amalfi Spritz
Be transported to the Mediterranean with the classic Amalfi Spritz, evoking notes of bittersweet orange to create the perfect serve for those who prefer the taste of an Aperol Spritz. Already recognised as a best-in-class product, theAmalfi Spritzwas the only product to be awarded a Gold Medal in the 2021 International Spirits Challenge within the No & Low category in a hugely competitive group with 721 products entered.
Lyre’s Classico
Enhance this traditional tippleby pouring the Amalfi Spritz into a wine glass with lots of ice, and top it off with a slice of orange or olive for a more savoury sip. Sip on a decadent Classicowith a crisp, dry finish, with hints of fresh peach and granny smith apples that pay homage to the Italian sparkling Prosecco.Best served in a chilled flute or coupette, this tart bubbly will cleanse the palate, preparing you for the next pour. The Classico is also suited to impress guests with a fancy Amalfi Spritz by mixing it with Lyre’s very-own Italian Spritz, soda garnished with a zesty orange slice.
Lyre’s G&T
Enjoy a classic summer favourite with Lyre’s take on theG&Tpacked with firm flavours of juniper, citrus, and refreshing tonic.Recreate the experience of a refreshing gin and tonic by decanting the contents into a chilled, ice-filled highball glass. Top it off with a slice of ruby grapefruit and a sprig of rosemary, and enjoy the warmth that will leave your palate wanting more.
The global non-alcoholic spirits boom is in full swing and projected to grow by 31% over the next three years1as Lyre’s continues to lead the charge in the non-alcoholic category. Lyre’s has also generated a significant 538% growth in revenue compared to the same time in January 20201, and they underpin the importance of ‘Dry’ months as the gateway for the sober curious and drinkers alike in the non-alcoholic spirits category, increasing the demand for sophisticated adult-beverage like the Lyre’s range.
Mark Livings, Co-founder of Lyre’ssaid, “The ready-to-drink range has been created to give everyone the freedom to enjoy their drink their way, without the booze. The new pre-mixed Lyre’s non-alcoholic cocktails are perfect for gatherings and to be enjoyed at the beach, park, on a boat or wherever the summer adventure takes you.”
The Lyre’s ready-to-drink cocktails are available by the can(S$6.50)or in a pack of four by flavour at Cold Storage Great World, Cold Storage Kallang Leisure Park and Cold Storage Plaza Singapura (S$25).Theyalso can be purchased through Singapore’s e-commerce platform (https://lyres.asia/) in a mixed carton of 12 with four cans of each flavour (S$78)or in a case of 24 cans by flavour(S$156).
As the nation marches forward with its national immunisation programme, Subway® Malaysia will be donating 10,000 sandwiches as a show of appreciation and support for the frontliners and volunteers at vaccination and quarantine centres who work tirelessly to protect our rakyat.
Drawing inspiration from its newest menu item – a unique take on a delectable dish which has long been loved by Malaysians across an array of momentous occasions – the Rendang Sub is the first Subway sandwich in Malaysia to feature an iconic and indulgent local flavour. With this launch, Subway® Malaysia once again aims to ignite patriotic spirits by donating up to 10,000 Subway sandwiches to the essential workers who stand at the forefront in our relentless battle against Covid-19.
“Food, and rendang in particular, with its irresistibly rich and aromatic flavor, is the love language of Malaysia. It is how we greet one another, how we nurture and show we care. It is also how we show solidarity both in times of celebration and adversity,” said Samad Shariff, Country Director of Subway® Southeast Asia, Hong Kong and Macau.
“Following the success of last year’s Ramadan campaign in which we donated 10,000 Subway sandwiches to frontliners, the homeless and those in need, Subway® Malaysia again wishes to give thanks to the people who put their lives on the line to look after ours,” he added.
With the country’s health and safety resting in their hands, Subway® Malaysia’s donation of 10,000 sandwiches will provide healthy and nourishing meals to frontliners and volunteers who are working to protect the rakyat.
In celebrating the launch of Subway® Malaysia’s first sandwich to feature a quintessential local flavor, citizens who are doing their part by staying at home to curb the spread of Covid-19 can stand a chance to win RM100 worth of Foodpanda vouchers which, via delivery, can be used to redeem delicious Rendang Subs—made with rich, aromatic spices and fresh crunchy veggies in either chicken or beef that rendang lovers won’t be able to resist.
To enter, participants will simply need to share the “Rendang Nation Anthem” video – a love letter by way of song, starring Malaysia’s own Zee Avi, NYK, Shak and Haneri – on Facebook, along with a creative caption on “How Rendang Can Unite Us All”, with submissions open from July 7th to August 24th, 2021.
With RM50,000 worth of prizes up for grabs, 500 entrants with the most creative captions will be chosen and notified of their RM100 prize via Facebook on August 31st, 2021.
Subway® Malaysia fragrant, mouth-watering Rendang Subs that taste like home are available through delivery via Foodpanda and GrabFood, or via takeaway from all Subway restaurants nationwide from July 7 th to September 14th, 2021. In further curbing the spread of Covid-19, Subway® Malaysia ensures the health and safety of all its employees and customers with stringent health and heightened safety and hygiene procedures.
foodpanda launches pandapro, a subscription based service offering customers additional discounts and savings
Launching pandago in Malaysia, to assist vendors with deliveries for zero commission
pandamart celebrates its first year in Malaysia with amazing prizes
Customers stand a chance to win a Sony Playstation 5 and Nintendo Switch from foodpanda shops in July
Malaysia, July 6, 2021 – foodpanda Malaysia turns NINE! In conjunction with the 9th year anniversary, foodpanda is introducing multiple new features and exclusive giveaways to usher in this exciting celebration.
“We are always looking for new ways to empower both users and vendors to tap into everyday joy and we are happy to share that we have been able to do that for the last nine years and look forward to continuously doing so in the years to come,” said Sayantan Das, Managing Director, foodpanda Malaysia. “Whether users are getting food delivered through foodpanda, picking-up orders after ordering on our platform, buying necessities via foodpanda shops, getting groceries through pandamart, we have come a long way from when we first entered the Malaysian market. We hope to continuously grow and keep the momentum going by innovating and introducing new features to meet the demands of our users.”
Sayantan also added, “The excitement just does not end there. Hitting the 9th year mark is definitely a milestone for us and we want to be able to reward our users for their tremendous support with our exclusive giveaways. Moving forward, we will continue our efforts to retain our position as a disruptor in the q-commerce space and cement our position as the leader in the industry.”
Get exclusive with pandapro!
pandapro is available for subscription via the foodpanda app at RM14.90 per month for a limited time only. Subscribed members will enjoy exclusive discounts of 15% and above on top of usual discounts on delivery at over 10,000 selected partners. Subscribers will enjoy up to 12 free deliveries on orders above RM25. Finally, subscribers will also enjoy an additional 5% discount on pick-up orders as well as two 20% discount vouchers for pandamart orders above RM45. Subscribers can enjoy a special promo for 24 hours on 7.7, and purchase subscriptions for only RM7.70.
pandapro will offer its members exclusive benefits and savings of more than RM100 per month that will help amplify their overall foodpanda experience across the food delivery or pick-up Click HERE to sign up with pandapro.
On-demand speedy delivery with pandago
With pandago, vendors can request for a rider and would have direct access to our fleet with zero commission. pandago is a value-added service for vendors who receive orders from external channels; allowing our vendor to focus on their sales while we deal with what we do best – supported by our trained fleet and support team.
Operating in all 13 states within Malaysia and with a coverage radius up to10km, pandago provides a network of reliable riders to pick up your package and have it safely delivered to its final destination, all within an hour. To top that, no contract is required for existing foodpanda vendors – only pay for what you need, when you need it. With perks such as real-time tracking, pandago is an affordable option allowing vendors to focus on what they do best, make amazing food while pandago takes care of the rest.
pandago is now accessible through the web platform https://pandago.my or through GoDroid devices.
The celebration doesn’t just stop there, pandamart celebrates their 1st anniversary in Malaysia, foodpanda users stand a chance to win a grand prize such as iPads, Airpods, Le Creuset products and so much more when you post a selfie with your pandamart purchase and a creative birthday wish in the contest post comment section, during the same period.
We have more! From 1st to 31st July, foodpanda shops are giving lucky users a chance to win a Sony Playstation 5 with purchase of RM35 and above from shops. Every 3 orders with a minimum value of RM35 are entitled to one entry. Other prizes include four Nintendo Switch Gen 2. What are you waiting for? Jump on the #ishopiwin bandwagon now! Contest winners will be announced on 9 August 2021.
Study by Kaspersky also puts spotlight on SEA’s attitude towards internet security
05 July 2021
Gen Z and Gen X in Southeast Asia (SEA) are less afraid about future technologies such as biometrics, smart appliances, robotic devices and deepfakes while Millennials and Boomers have their guards up. These are some more key findings from Kaspersky’s research “Making Sense of Our Place in the Digital Reputation Economy”.
The research conducted just last November 2020 asked 831 social media users in SEA about their level of fear against the current technological trends and found out that more than half (62%) are afraid of deepfakes. It is highest among Baby Boomers (74%) and lowest among Gen X (58%).
Deepfakes is the use of artificial intelligence to create images, audio, or voice recordings in someone else’s likeness. The respondents’ attitude towards this technology is not without basis as deepfake videos have been used for political purposes, as well as for personal revenge. Increasingly, they are also being used in major attempts at blackmail and fraud.
For instance, the CEO of a British energy firm was tricked out of $243,000 by a voice Deepfake of the head of his parent company requesting an emergency transfer of funds. The fake was so convincing that he didn’t think to check; the funds were wired not to the head office, but to a third party’s bank account. The CEO only became suspicious when his ‘boss’ requested another transfer. This time, alarm bells rang – but it was too late to get back the funds he’d already transferred.
SEA respondents are less but still guarded about biometrics or the use fingerprint, eye scanner, and facial recognition (32%), smart devices (27%), and robotic tools like a robo cleaner (15%).
The social media users in the region has valid reasons to fear the up and coming technologies as the study also unmasked their negative experiences online.
Most common incident faced by more than 3-in-10 respondents was an account takeover wherein someone got access to their accounts without their permission. More than a quarter (29%) also have some secret information seen by someone they would not want to see.
Over 2-in-10 also shared that someone got access to their devices forcibly (28%), their private information was either stolen or used without consent (24%) or was seen publicly (23%).
Aftermaths of these incidents include receiving spam and adverts (43%), stress (29%), causing embarrassment or offense (17%), reputational damage (15%), and monetary loss (14%).
Chris Connell, Managing Director for Asia Pacific at Kaspersky
“Our survey proves that unfortunate incidents can happen online and such have real-life repercussions. Technologies are meant to evolve for the greater good, however, there are always learning curves where a some amount of fear with action will be vital,” comments Chris Connell, Managing Director for Asia Pacific at Kaspersky.
However, the same research revealed that there are still almost 2-in-10 users in the region who believe that internet security software is not required to protect their online lives. This perception is highest with Gen Z (17%), followed by Millennials (16%). There were both 15% of Gen X and Baby Boomers who also deem these solutions unnecessary.
“This is a cause of concern as we, humans, are prone to making errors from time to time and such solutions are meant to be our safety nets. While there is no silver bullet when it comes to cybersecurity, it is still important to have basic defenses in place. Business owners should particularly look into this as their IT infrastructure continues to flow from their safer enterprise networks to the more vulnerable individual houses,” adds Connell.
COVID-19 has caused an overnight remote working revolution, bringing with it new cyber-challenges for IT teams. Here’s Kaspersky’s tips on how to help homeworkers stay cyber-safe.
Teach your teams to become cyber-aware
Training is crucial to help your teams to become cyber-aware. Plan a program of learning, with a mix of online learning, classroom (virtual or real-world) and regular advice by email. You could test whether people can spot a phishing attack by setting up a fake phishing email.
To start, try this free 30-minute adaptive learning course by Kaspersky and Area9 Lyceum for those who are new to remote working to help them work safely from home with lessons about choosing strong passwords, the importance of endpoint protection and regular software updates.
Build a culture of trust
Unfortunately, in many larger organisations, there isn’t a culture of transparency between employees and IT on cyber matters. When people make mistakes, they’re either unaware of what they’ve done or are scared they’ll lose their job, so they may not formally report a data breach incident that ends up damaging the company. You need to build a culture of trust and transparency between employees and the IT team. Open communication is critical.
Advise against casual browsing on work devices
Casual browsing may lead to compromised network security, so make sure employees know this and encourage them to do personal things – like shopping, social media or reading news – on their own devices.
Patch employees’ machines
If your employees’ devices aren’t completely patched and up-to-date, the chances increase of hackers finding a vulnerability in your system. Remotely access their machine to patch or help them do it themselves over the phone. Even better, install an automated patching solution.
Ask people to change default passwords on home routers
Most home routers use a default password, which hackers can find and then get into the back end of the home network. Few people bother to change it because it’s a somewhat tricky process, but it will drastically improve employees’ cyber-defenses. Show them how they can do it.
The Kaspersky “Making sense of our place in the digital reputation economy” report studies attitudes of individuals in Asia Pacific towards building a secure and reputable online identity on social media. It also looks into how tainted digital reputation of businesses are perceived.
The study was conducted by research agency YouGov in Australia, India, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, and Vietnam last November 2020. A total of 1,240 respondents were surveyed across the stated countries.
The respondents ranged from 18-65 years of age, all of which are working professionals who are active on social media (spending at least 1 hour a day on social media).
Through this paper, when the behaviour of the population of a market is generalised, it is in reference to the group of respondents sampled above.
Spritzer prioritises employee’s safety and health, initiates steps to acquire vaccination
KUALA LUMPUR, 5 JULY 2021 – Spritzer Malaysia (“Spritzer” or the “Company”), which produces Malaysia’s best-selling natural mineral water, is urging Rakyat Malaysia to register themselves for the COVID-19 vaccination to protect themselves and those around them from the spread of new variants that are more transmissible and deadlier given that only about half of the country’s population is registered.
Since the pandemic started in 2020, the Company has been working closely with frontliners such as the medical team, police force, the military and enforcement agencies to ensure that there is clean water supply available, nationwide. In view of the seriousness of the pandemic, Spritzer has continuously contributed mineral water to several COVID-19 vaccination centres as a support to frontliners, volunteers and those going for vaccination to ensure their most basic need is taken care of. Apart from these initiatives, Spritzer also supports Civil Defence Force teams who are assigned to bury Covid-19 victims in the Klang Valley.
Spritzer understands the sacrifices made by the frontliners and enforcement agencies in attending to their duties, especially in tough weather conditions, while the recent jump in infections have further stressed the healthcare system with shortages of ICU beds and tired medical teams.
As most of the Spritzer employees have not been able to secure their vaccination appointments, the Company has taken the initiative to acquire the vaccines as part of its response to prioritising their safety and health. This vaccination programme will begin this month.
Spritzer hopes that everyone is doing their bit in fighting the pandemic by following the standard operating procedures as laid down by the National Security Council and also adhere to the guidelines provided by the Ministry of Health.
Carsome, Southeast Asia’s largest integrated car e-commerce platform, has acquired an all-equity stake in PT Universal Collection (PT UC), a Jakarta based car and motorcycle auction service
● Marks Carsome’s first investment in Southeast Asia in 2021, with several strategic investments and major merger and acquisition (M&A) transactions planned in the near future
● As part of its investment, Carsome’s dealer partners will enjoy more inventory diversity and broader options through PT UC, which transacted close to 30,000 vehicles in FY2020
● Around the deal, Delly Nugraha, Country Head of Carsome Indonesia, has been appointed as President Director of PT UC
● Carsome continues to see strong growth in the region, including in Indonesia where it is set to double transaction volumes in 2021. The company is on track to hit over US$1 billion in annual revenue in 2021
KUALA LUMPUR, 6 July 2021: Southeast Asia’s largest integrated car e-commerce platform, Carsome, has acquired an equity stake in PT Universal Collection (PT UC). PT UC is an offline car and motorcycle auction service company based in Jakarta which transacted close to 30,000 vehicles in FY2020. Outside of Jakarta, PT UC has branches in South Tangerang, Bandung, Yogyakarta, and Malang. It marks Carsome’s first investment in Southeast Asia in 2021.
Investment into PT UC allows Carsome to double its automotive transaction volumes in Indonesia. It sets Carsome a step closer to deliver on its vision of building a regional, end-to-end integrated online used car ecosystem for dealers and consumers. Carsome’s dealer partners will enjoy more inventory diversity and broader options through PT UC, one of Indonesia’s leading auction houses for automobiles. It also allows Carsome to expand its network coverage and access to financial and leasing providers. This will make Carsome the largest omnichannel integrated car e-commerce platform in the region, offering full-fledged services for both online and offline transactions with wider coverage. PT UC’s suppliers, meanwhile, will have access to a wider demand pool through Carsome.
Delly Nugraha – Country Head of Carsome Indonesia_President Director PT Universal Collection
Delly Nugraha, Country Head of Carsome Indonesia, has also been appointed as President Director of PT Universal Collection. Commenting on the deal, he said: “We are really excited to invest into PT Universal Collection. This investment serves as a strategic move for Carsome to open up more opportunities and networks, and to significantly expand our operations in Indonesia, a key Southeast Asia market for Carsome. Through PT UC’s access to used car supplies in the market, Carsome’s dealer partners will enjoy more inventory diversity and broader options. PT UC’s suppliers, on the other hand, will be opened to a wider demand pool, broadening their accessibility in the used car market.”
Based on the Carsome Consumer Survey released in early 2021, interest among Indonesian consumers to buy or sell a used car remains high. At least 64 percent of Indonesian consumers are interested in purchasing a used car between April and September 2021 period. Moreover, Indonesian consumers are optimistic that their purchasing power will strengthen on the back of more disposable incomes.
The investment into PT UC proves timely as Carsome continues expanding into new areas within Indonesia to serve more dealers, consumers and ecosystem partners, strengthening its position as the leading used-car platform in Southeast Asia. The company continues to see dynamic growth across its Southeast Asian markets, particularly with rising demand for used cars as more consumers opt for private car ownership amid the Covid-19 pandemic.
Carsome continues to grow from strength to strength – as of April 2021, the company is tracking over 9,000 used car transactions per month, or over 100,000 on an annualized basis. This puts our annualized revenue at around US$800M and we are on track to achieve US$1B revenue for the year.
Delfi has brought Black Thunder, a cocoa-flavored cookie bar mixed with Japanese-style rice puffs, coated with chocolate, to Malaysia. The chocolate company first formed a strategic alliance with Japan's...
