stc group paves way for sustainable transformation

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Updated 10 August 2024
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stc group paves way for sustainable transformation

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stc Group, a leading digital enabler, launched its fifth annual sustainability report, continuing its commitment to driving forward sustainable transformation through environmental, social, and governance excellence.

The initiatives outlined in stc Group’s 2023 Sustainability Report contribute to sustainable transformation and a future where businesses are the catalysts for protecting people and the planet. As part of the updated sustainability framework, the group identified three core pillars in 2023.

Environmental performance & climate
stc Group aspires to be a global leader in environmental stewardship and has made significant progress toward its commitment to achieving net zero by 2050. This commitment has been validated and approved by the Science Based Targets Initiative and is supported by several environmental performance programs.

Key initiatives and programs include the installation of seven operational solar powered sites at headquarters, as well as the incorporation of energy efficiency and sustainability measures for data centers and towers.

Additionally, a solar pilot project launched for 18 sites across the Kingdom. The group has also implemented advanced power-saving technologies using artificial intelligence, resulting in a 13 percent reduction in energy consumption across stc’s 4G and 5G networks.

Human capital development through technological innovation
Fundamental to stc Group’s sustainability practices are initiatives that advance human capital by creating opportunities for growth that bridge societal divides through technological innovation. These social investment initiatives enrich the lives of customers, empower stc Group employees, and contribute to community development in impactful ways.

Strong governance & ethical excellence
stc Group is dedicated to embodying a standard ethical governance that upholds the utmost levels of integrity, transparency, and accountability. In 2023, stc Group transitioned its compliance function from legal affairs to an independent division reporting to the chief regulatory and compliance officer, ensuring programs across subsidiaries rigorously adhere to performance standards, thorough impact assessments, and responsible business practices. This included the expansion of the rawafed program, which boosts the local economy and promotes sustainable business.

 

 


SRMG Academy announces technology journalism course, powered by TikTok

SRMG Academy announces technology journalism course, powered by TikTok
Updated 27 August 2024
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SRMG Academy announces technology journalism course, powered by TikTok

SRMG Academy announces technology journalism course, powered by TikTok

SRMG Academy, the training arm of Saudi Research and Media Group — the largest integrated media group in the MENA region, has announced a groundbreaking training course in technology journalism. 

The intensive five-day program, powered by TikTok, will be held in Riyadh from Sept. 15-19. It will be open to a select group of aspiring Saudi journalists and content creators. 

The course is the first collaboration between SRMG Academy, launched in December 2022, and TikTok, the global platform. The course underscores TikTok’s commitment to fostering Saudi talent and enhancing the dialogue around technology in the region. 

Alaa Shahine Salha, managing director of SRMG Academy, said: “Partnering with TikTok for this training course marks a significant milestone for SRMG Academy. It highlights our commitment to providing top-tier training opportunities for Saudi journalists and content creators.”

Raghdah Alazab, head of MENA communications at TikTok, said: “As technology continues to reshape our world, the role of journalists becomes even more crucial in shaping informed discussions and narratives. At TikTok, we recognize the vital role of technology journalism in fostering understanding and innovation. This collaboration with SRMG Academy underscores our commitment to equipping aspiring talents within the tech industry with the skills to navigate technological developments, empowering them to drive positive change in their communities.”

Participants in the course will gain insights into the latest trends of tech journalism, including reporting for multiple digital platforms and how to create compelling content that can capture the audience’s attention. 

Interested applicants can register for the course on the link: SRMG TIKTOK ACADEMY (srpcdigital.com)


Fenaa Alawwal forum to spotlight role of contemporary art

Fenaa Alawwal forum to spotlight role of contemporary art
Updated 27 August 2024
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Fenaa Alawwal forum to spotlight role of contemporary art

Fenaa Alawwal forum to spotlight role of contemporary art

Fenaa Alawwal, a cultural center opened by the Saudi Ministry of Culture, has announced the launch of “Muntada FAA,” set to take place in the center’s premises in the Diplomatic Quarters in Riyadh, from Sept. 15 to 19. The “muntada” (Arabic word for forum) will provide a space for knowledge exchange, introspection, and exploration of contemporary art practices in Saudi Arabia in the context of the creative transformation underway in the Kingdom. 

Designed and developed by Fenaa Alawwal, Muntada FAA’s first edition is co-curated with afikra. Under the title “Introspection: Role of Contemporary Art Practices In a Time of Change,” it aims to shed light on how collaborative and community-based events and productions revolving around the arts contribute to driving the wheel of societal participation toward broader horizons. Five panel discussions will be held over five days, bringing together 24 creative artists, thinkers, writers, and experts in the field of art to explore a diverse range of topics including: Saudi Artists’ Role in Shaping the Kingdom’s Global Image; Saudi Youth Culture: Music, Street Art and Fashion; Being an Art Professional: Navigating Creativity in a Structural Setup; Cultural Hubs: The Emergence of Art Districts in Saudi Urban Centers; and The Intersection of Food and Art. 

In addition to the panel discussions, Muntada FAA will offer three keynote talks by renowned public figures in the arts and culture scene, who will share their experience and knowledge with the audience. The program will also include an interactive “Kitchen Lab” experience with a celebrated chef, and a “Culinary Performance.” 

In line with Fenaa Alawwal’s role as a unique cultural and creative hub that inspires cross-cultural exchange and dialogue, the forum aims to bring together a diverse community of creative thinkers to inspire the community, ignite debate, and unlock new directions for art and culture. 

For more information on the program and agenda, follow Fenaa Alawwal’s social media accounts. Seats are limited, and tickets can be purchased through Discover Culture platform on the link: https://dc.moc.gov.sa/home/muntada-faa/ 


Senior PPP regulators from MENA to convene at UAE forum

Senior PPP regulators from MENA to convene at UAE forum
Updated 26 August 2024
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Senior PPP regulators from MENA to convene at UAE forum

Senior PPP regulators from MENA to convene at UAE forum

The 4th edition of the PPP MENA Forum is set to take place on Sept. 10-11, at the Jumeirah Emirates Towers in Dubai. Organized by Great Minds Event Management, this premier event will bring together senior public-private partnership regulators from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, and Oman under one roof for the first time, marking a historic moment in the advancement of PPP frameworks across the Middle East and North Africa region.

This high-profile gathering will feature policymakers, investors, business leaders, and other influential stakeholders dedicated to advancing PPP initiatives across the MENA region. The forum’s strategic importance is underscored by its role in facilitating meaningful dialogues and fostering impactful collaborations. The forum will showcase and announce groundbreaking projects from these key regions.

The event will be attended by a diverse group of participants dedicated to fostering sustainable development through PPPs. These attendees represent a range of sectors, underscoring the forum’s broad relevance and its role in facilitating strategic collaborations.

Nasser Massoud, founder and managing director of Concept Realization and WAPPP chair for the social sector PPPs chapter in the UAE, said: “The 4th PPP MENA Forum is more than just an event; it’s a crucible for transformative ideas and partnerships that drive the social and economic progress of our region. Bringing together such a high caliber of leaders and decision-makers under one roof not only amplifies the impact of our discussions but also accelerates the implementation of innovative PPP projects that can benefit millions.”

The 4th PPP MENA Forum will also feature a dynamic agenda delivered by a lineup of subject expert speakers who will provide valuable insights into the latest developments and strategic trends in PPPs. This gathering is a unique opportunity for attendees to network with top policymakers and industry leaders, thereby enhancing their understanding of the evolving PPP landscape and exploring new opportunities.

The organizers announced Khaled Alrubaian as a speaker from NCP Saudi Arabia among its key speakers, reinforcing the event’s significance.

Topics covered in the forum include the future of PPPs in the MENA region, challenges and opportunities in financing PPP projects, legal and regulatory frameworks for effective PPP implementation, and case studies on successful PPP projects and their impact on regional development.

The event is sponsored by Abu Dhabi Investment Office, Kuwait Authority for Partnership Projects, NCP Saudi Arabia and various local and international firms specializing in finance, legal, and consultancy services.

The continued evolution of PPPs and their role in shaping sustainable infrastructure in the MENA region underscores the timely relevance of this forum. As stakeholders from across the region gather to share insights and forge partnerships, the impact of their discussions is expected to resonate well beyond the immediate future.


FedEx taps WhatsApp for e-commerce delivery

FedEx taps WhatsApp for e-commerce delivery
Updated 26 August 2024
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FedEx taps WhatsApp for e-commerce delivery

FedEx taps WhatsApp for e-commerce delivery

Federal Express Corporation, the world’s largest express transportation company, has enhanced its FedEx Delivery Manager International e-commerce solution with delivery notifications on WhatsApp, available in both English and Arabic, for package recipients in Saudi Arabia.

FDMi is an interactive e-commerce delivery solution that provides customizable delivery options and alerts. E-tailers using the solution can offer their customers the ability to choose the timing and location of their deliveries to fit their schedule — and change the delivery address when the shipment is in transit — giving them extra flexibility at no extra cost.

“The FDMi service enhancement facilitates interactive communication for package recipients, providing them with updates from pickup to delivery. This enhancement underscores our continuous efforts to streamline and simplify the last-mile delivery process, ensuring convenience for consumers,” said Abdulrahman Al-Mubarak, managing director of FedEx Middle East operations.”

Recipients expecting inbound deliveries receive a WhatsApp notification from FedEx upon shipment pickup. FedEx uses a META-verified WhatsApp business account that helps recipients mitigate online risks, such as WhatsApp scams perpetrated using the FedEx brand. Recipients can message and chat with FedEx directly in the language of their choice, as well as access tracking status and re-direct options with the click of a button directly in the WhatsApp chat window.

The integration of WhatsApp into FDMi offers considerable benefits to all participants in the e-commerce ecosystem. In an increasingly competitive online marketplace, FDMi helps e-tailers, especially SMEs, provide a differentiated service offer. Customers get more peace of mind through the traceability of their package on their mobile devices, as well as an enhanced online shopping experience. It also helps FedEx minimize delivery attempts to recipients who may not be present at the registered delivery address.

The WhatsApp instant messaging social media platform has more than 2 billion active monthly users globally, with over 22 million users in the Kingdom, making it one of the most popular communication apps in the country. 


Al-Madinah Heritage Company unveils ‘Milaf’ brand for premium date products

Al-Madinah Heritage Company unveils ‘Milaf’ brand for premium date products
Updated 26 August 2024
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Al-Madinah Heritage Company unveils ‘Milaf’ brand for premium date products

Al-Madinah Heritage Company unveils ‘Milaf’ brand for premium date products

Al-Madinah Heritage Company, wholly owned by Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, has announced the introduction of its new commercial brand, Milaf, which specializes in marketing and producing dates and date byproducts.

According to a press release, the company will market all varieties of dates from the Kingdom globally, while upholding the highest quality standards in all supply chain operations, from farming to manufacturing and packaging.

Milaf offers a variety of famous and the finest dates from different regions of the Kingdom, which are especially popular among the Kingdom’s guests, pilgrims, Umrah performers, and visitors.

According to AMHC, Milaf offers popular varieties in attractive packaging inspired by the Saudi heritage, designed to meet the high demand from consumers from the Kingdom and abroad.

The press release said that to support the date industry, Milaf is introducing products suitable to various tastes, such as chocolate cream and date cream, which are free of added sugar, to promote a healthy lifestyle.

AMHC CEO Bander Alqahtani said that the launch of Milaf is part of the company’s strategy to provide more marketing opportunities for the Kingdom’s date farmers and producers worldwide, as the company aims to elevate the value and quality of Saudi dates and position them as a premium, nutrient-rich, and healthy food choice.

He added that the brand will offer a comprehensive healthy food basket for families, and natural beverages and sweeteners as alternatives to refined sugars.