(GLOFs) Project, implemented by the (UNDP)

The Glacial Hackathon: Incubating Innovative Ideas and Solutions to Tackle Challenges Posed by Climate-Induced Disasters.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir) Pakistan is home to over 13,032 glaciers spanning the Karakoram, the Hindu Kush, and the Himalayan mountain ranges, making its northern region the largest reservoir of glaciers outside of the polar regions. However, with striking changes in the climate, these glaciers and the habitats surrounding them are deeply troubled, with 10,000 glaciers reported to be receding.

The Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) Project, implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Ministry of Climate Change & Environmental Coordination and supported by the Green Climate Fund, is focused on overcoming the climate vulnerabilities of the valleys of Gilgit Baltistan (GB) and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP). The project aims to protect communities from the impacts of GLOFs resulting from significant glacial melts. In collaboration with Cirrus Pakistan, the project is rolling out awareness sessions at various universities and colleges in GB and KP, leading up to a climate-centric hackathon to incubate ideas and solutions based on local knowledge to propel climate adaptation mechanisms and programming.

Applicants are invited to submit their concepts for advancing climate-conscious solutions through livelihood interventions and innovative disaster risk reduction practices, among other focus areas. In this respect, the Dr. Allah Ditta, Associate Professor/Chairman, Department of Environmental Sciences of the Shaheed Benazir Bhutto University Sheringal, Dir said, “Collective efforts in engaging our youth through such initiatives will pave the way for innovative solutions to combat the severe impacts of climate change in our region.”

Sumaira Gul, a student of Karakoram International University, (Chilas) Diamer Campus, discussed the need to invest in climate-centric solutions to overcome the impacts of global warming during the awareness session. “The severity of the situation has encouraged me to participate in this hackathon, hoping to contribute to sustainable solutions that will protect our communities and environment,” she added.

UNDP’s GLOF-II project works in 16 valleys of Gilgit Baltistan and 8 valleys in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It empowers communities to identify and manage risks associated with GLOFs and related impacts of climate change, strengthens public services to lower the risk of disasters related to GLOFs, and improves community preparedness and disaster response. The project also supports the development of sustainable livelihood options in project areas, with a particular focus on the participation of women in ensuring food security and livelihoods.

Novice to Professional: Tips to Improve your Mobile Gaming Abilities and Skills

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

The popularity of mobile gaming has experienced a significant surge, offering a diverse range of experiences tailored to players of varying skill levels. To maximize your enjoyment, optimizing your device’s performance is critical. So, here are some tips that can help everyone have an extraordinary gaming experience.
Firstly, visual clarity is paramount for an exceptional mobile gaming experience. Optimizing your device’s settings is the first step. Adjust the brightness, contrast, and color saturation to ensure a clear view, especially during action-packed moments.  For a smoother and more responsive experience, consider increasing the refresh rate, for instance, 144 Hz, which you can get in GT 20 Pro. The phone features a bezel-less 144Hz Full HD Plus (FHD+) AMOLED display for clear and vibrant visuals. This will elevate your gaming experience to another level, minimize motion blur, and provide more seamless gameplay.

Additionally, it is advisable to eliminate redundant applications, images, and videos to declutter your mobile device. By freeing up storage space, you can mitigate the risk of performance slowdowns and frustrating disruptions during your gaming sessions. The GT 20 Pro boasts substantial storage capacity, featuring 256GB of internal storage and the capability to expand up to 24GB, ensuring seamless operation of all resource-intensive games and applications.

Secondly, mastering the controls is another key factor in improving your mobile gaming skills. Many games offer customizable control schemes. Experiment with different options to find a setup that suits your playing style. Higher sensitivity settings allow for swift movements, ideal for fast-paced games. Conversely, lower sensitivity provides greater precision for aiming in games that require more strategic control. Regularly playing your favorite games is the most effective way to hone your skills. With practice, you’ll develop better hand-eye coordination and reaction times. Remember to close any unnecessary background apps while gaming. This frees up valuable resources on your phone, ensuring smoother gameplay, especially on older devices. Power-saving modes should also be disabled, as they can limit performance and hinder your gaming experience.

Understanding these factors, Infinix has introduced the GT 20 Pro, a phone specifically designed for smooth, high-end gaming. Featuring a 120fps refresh rate display and an innovative in-built cooling system designed to prevent overheating during prolonged gaming sessions.

Moreover, the Infinix GT 20 Pro is a powerhouse, equipped with a Dimensity 8200 Ultimate 4nm 5G processor, the first dual-chip smartphone in its price range, and a dedicated gaming display chip. This combination delivers an unparalleled gaming experience, while its unique Cyber Mecha Design goes beyond aesthetics, solidifying its position as a top contender for high-end mobile gaming.

The GT 20 Pro also incorporates a unique Esports mode that optimizes display visuals for professional-grade gaming. With its bold, futuristic design that sets it apart from the competition, the Infinix GT 20 Pro is a revolutionary device. Whether you’re a casual or a pro gamer, the GT 20 Pro elevates your mobile gaming experience to unprecedented levels.

Zindigi 2.0: The Future of Fintech is Here!

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)

Zindigi, the digital banking initiative of JS Bank, has launched its game changing Zindigi 2.0 upgrade. This major App design revamp is set to take a significant position in the world of financial management apps, reaffirming Zindigi’s spot as the ultimate all-in-one finance app. The revamped interface offers a sleek, sophisticated design that enhances user engagement and simplifies interactions within the App. The redesign is attending to the changing needs & preferences of Zindigi’s growing 5 million+ customer base. This customer-centric approach is a testament to Zindigi’s commitment to provide best in class financial service experiences. Zindigi 2.0 offers a contemporary, minimalistic, intuitive yet familiar App experience for Gen Z and Millennials.

Zindigi 2.0 is also introducing new features and services, like freelancers account with an option of foreign currency account, making freelancer payments accessible in USD.  Additionally, the introduction of Mini Program allows users to access a variety of products & services within app, including e-commerce, travel, and health, significantly enhancing the app’s utility. Personalization feature has also been upgraded to allow users to be more in control of their finances by prioritizing the services they use most without missing the key use cases.

Accessibility to key financial use cases is another cornerstone of Zindigi 2.0. With flexible nano loans of up to Rs100K, Zindigi leads industry, offering users greater financial flexibility and convenience. With lowest ticket size mutual funds and stock trading options, the App redesign enhances usability for a quick access to savings, spending & credit/funds when they need them most.

Meena M. Khan, Chief Product Officer Stated, at Zindigi ‘everything we do is to make things ‘simple’ for our customers. We have been researching, listening to our customers, and analyzing App data points to formulate our redesign strategy. We are now thrilled to share the outcome, Zindigi 2.0 is ‘Simply Lit’ making App navigation & product discovery easy & pleasant for our amazing set of customers’.

Zindigi 2.0 isn’t just about adding new features – it’s about transforming the user experience. With a focus on innovation and user-centric design, Zindigi continues to set the standard for excellence in the fintech industry, empowering users to take control of their financial future with unparalleled ease and convenience.

From freelancers to investors, Zindigi 2.0 provides tailored solutions that meet diverse financial needs. This upgrade reaffirms Zindigi’s commitment to delivering a cutting-edge, all-in-one finance app that stands out in the market, making it the premier choice for digital banking in Pakistan. By seamlessly integrating innovative features and a user-centric design, Zindigi 2.0 continues to redefine digital banking, transforming the financial landscape of Pakistan and setting a new benchmark for the fintech industry.

Sarsabz Dominates PDA with Triple Triumph, Setting New Standards in Digital Innovation

Sarsabz, a leading brand in the fertilizer industry under Fatima Fertilizer, has achieved remarkable success at the prestigious Pakistan Digital Awards. This year, Sarsabz has been honored with three accolades :

Best Use of Generative AI in Content Creation for Salam Kissan, Best Innovated Mobile App for Sarsabz Content – HSE App and Best Web Series of the Year for Sarsabz Kahani – Dahani.

This winning spree at the Pakistan Digital Awards highlights Sarsabz’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology and creative strategies to engage with Pakistan’s agricultural community.

The Pakistan Digital Awards platform is celebrated for its individuality and impartiality, recognizing and honoring the brilliance of digital platforms and talent. The awards shine a spotlight on outstanding websites, apps, and creators, reflecting the dynamic evolution of public, private, and third-sector organizations in trade and communication.

The Best Use of Generative AI in Content Creation for Salam Kissan award was given against Sarsabz Fertilizer’s AI-powered digital communication as part of its Salam Kissan Campaign 2023. The Salam Kissan campaign is a highly acclaimed award-winning campaign, it has garnered numerous international and local accolades. This pioneering initiative has set new records in Pakistan’s agricultural industry by utilizing advanced AI technology for its digital campaign. Sarsabz Fertilizer proudly stands as the trailblazer in the agricultural sector, being the first to harness Artificial Intelligence into its digital communication strategies.

The Sarsabz Connect – HSE App, awarded as the Best Innovated Mobile App, represents a significant milestone in the journey towards ensuring health, safety, and environmental (HSE) standards remain paramount in the agricultural sector. This transformative digital tool not only streamlines HSE protocols but also fosters a culture of safety and accountability within the organization. Through intuitive features such as real-time reporting, online training programs, and a paperless environment, the Sarsabz HSE App empowers employees at all levels to prioritize safety while enhancing operational efficiency.

Sarsabz Kahani, Pakistan’s first-ever agri-focused web-series platform introduced by Fatima Fertilizer, showcases inspiring true stories that embody the values of hope and determination. The latest episode features Shahnawaz Dahani, a Pakistani cricket sensation from a farming family in Larkana, Sindh. Despite his humble background, Dahani’s dedication and tireless effort propelled him to success in cricket, where he played a crucial role in Multan Sultans’ championship victory during the sixth season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL).

Talking about the triple triumph at PDA, Rabel Sadozai, Director Sales and Marketing Fatima Fertilizer said, “We are incredibly proud of our achievements at the Pakistan Digital Awards. These accolades are a testament to our innovative approach and commitment to excellence. Our aim is to continuously push the boundaries and set new standards in the digital landscape, especially within the agricultural sector. We dedicate these awards to our hardworking farmers, who are the true heroes of Pakistan.”

‘Media and Democracy: An Essential Partnership’ – An exclusive seminar by CEJ-IBA

Renowned journalist Hamid Mir emphasizes the importance of ‘independent judiciary’, ‘strong democracy’ and their links to ‘free media’.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir) Pakistan can’t survive without strong democracy, strong democracy can’t survive without free media and free media can’t survive without independent judiciary, stated renowned journalist Hamid Mir during a panel discussion in a seminar titled ‘Media and Democracy: An Essential Partnership’. Mr. Mir – who has covered conflicts in Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Kashmir, among others – is known for his fearless reporting and analysis as well as his commitment to press freedom.

The seminar was held at the Centre for Excellence in Journalism, Institute of Business Administration (CEJ-IBA) in collaboration with the School of Economics and Social Sciences (SESS), IBA and in partnership with Free Press Unlimited. The event brought together distinguished journalists to discuss the critical role that media plays in sustaining and enhancing democratic values.

In his keynote speech, Dr. S Akbar Zaidi, Executive Director, IBA Karachi, laid emphasis on the importance of free media, calling it ‘a fundamental component of democracy’, and adding that “Democracy requires a free and transparent media where journalists and reporters can speak the truth to those who hold power and public office”.

“All elected and unelected representatives of the people need to be held accountable for their actions; hence a free media is a prerequisite and essential component of democracy,” said Dr. Zaidi.

Lamenting the ‘stifled and muzzled’ state of media in Pakistan, where journalists are not free to report what they see, facts, interpretations and opinions, Dr. Zaidi stated, “While we continue the ritual of elections, the formal subsumption of democracy is a long way away. Unless the media is free, there can be no democracy in Pakistan. This is non-negotiable.”

Adil Jawad, a seasoned journalist with over 20 years of experience in the field, highlighted the rampant impunity in cases of journalist murders, pointing out that it is ‘the absolute norm in Pakistan’. However, he added, “As journalist murders and impunity continue apace, willing actors that are committed to fighting impunity are not planning to sit by idle.”

Discussing a new coalition in the works which aims to unite civil society against such impunity in the country, Mr. Jawad said, “We are laying important pieces of a puzzle at the moment. If we are able as civil society to engage with the authorities, we have a chance to finally decrease impunity rates in the murders of journalists.”

Ms. Lynne O’Donnell – one of the panelists, who spent many years as a foreign correspondent – talked about the unlimited availability of information online. She stated, “There has never been so much information available — we are drowning in a rising sea of words, photos, videos, blogs, vlogs, podcasts, social media, misinformation, disinformation, artificial intelligence, and propaganda.”

In her opinion, while ‘journalism, apparently, is thriving, the space for good journalism is shrinking’.

Ms. O’Donnell pointed out, “Our integrity as journalists, and the veracity of our work are persistently and consistently undermined.” She further said that “Our challenge is to redefine our purpose for a brave new world that needs journalism – meaningful, informative, trustworthy journalism that holds power to account without fear or favor – more than ever.”

Amber Rahim Shamsi, who has 20 years of experience in journalism, moderated the discussion. She highlighted the global impact of populism, the takeover of news distribution by social media platforms, and new technologies on journalism. She termed the seminar ‘an opportunity to understand the future of journalism in these tumultuous times in both the global and Pakistani contexts and chart a solution’.

 

Visa Fraud Prevention and Risk Management Summit Promotes Secure Digital Payments Infrastructure in Pakistan

  • Visa organizes full-day event attended by 60 participants, including issuers and acquirers from Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad.
  • The summit addresses the latest threats in the payment landscape, emphasizing the need for constant vigilance and updated security measures.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir) Visa (NYSE:V), a world leader in digital payments, recently hosted Pakistan’s premier “Fraud Prevention and Risk Management Summit”. This landmark event in Karachi was part of Visa’s ongoing mission to promote seamless payments and protect the digital payments infrastructure within the country while ensuring issuers and acquirers are well-informed about risks and well-equipped to protect themselves from attacks.

Umar S. Khan, Country Manager for Pakistan & Afghanistan, Visa, commented: “Empowerment is vital in combatting fraud. The journey to a secure digital future needs a collective push involving consumers, businesses, and governments. Visa has prioritized securing the digital landscape through advanced technology for more than 60 years and in just the past five years, have invested more than $10 billion[1] globally in technology, including measures designed to reduce fraud and enhance network security. By combining our strengths, connections and capabilities in awareness, education, and technology, we can all stay secure.”

“Visa’s Fraud Prevention and Risk Management Summit highlights that we are at a pivotal point where technology plays a larger role in managing our finances. The best practices on card and digital payment security that were discussed gave valuable insights to attendees. Our infrastructure capabilities and AI enabled tools ensure our clients and partners are well equipped with relevant resources and knowledge. According to recent reports, the national adoption of payments by 2025 can boost GDP by 7%[2] and Visa aims to support this effort in Pakistan through our education and outreach programs,” Khan added.

The event was designed as a comprehensive workshop attended by 60 participants from Lahore, Karachi, and Islamabad. The attendees were provided with insights into up-to-date best practices regarding card and digital payment security to boost their digitization initiatives. Faten Wehbi, Visa’s Head of Risk for North Africa, Levant, and Pakistan, led the workshop on risk, discussing consumer fraud, payment acceptance risks, and third-party risk management.

The training provided an extensive overview of fraud, including the various channels through which it can occur. It also addressed the latest threats in the payment landscape, emphasizing the need for constant vigilance and updated security measures. Key areas of focus included best practices for issuer and acquirer risk management and highlighting strategies for proactive fraud detection and prevention. The day-long event explored tools available within payment ecosystems that can be employed to manage and combat fraud efficiently.

Visa is also committed to providing secure payments experiences through numerous initiatives, including their annual flagship Visa CEMEA Security Summit, its regional Stay Secure campaign aimed at driving consumer awareness around safe payment practices and implementing technologies like Visa Advanced Authorization, Visa Secure and tokenization to reduce cyberthreats while enabling frictionless and safe transactions.

7 Must-Visit Souqs in Saudi for an Unforgettable Shopping Experience

Exploring the vibrant souqs of Saudi is a journey through time and tradition. These traditional markets offer shoppers a unique blend of culture, history, and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. Here are some of the most celebrated souqs in Saudi, each with its unique appeal.

1.Souq Al Alawi, Jeddah

Wander through the storied lanes of Souq Al Alawi, one of Jeddah’s most celebrated souqs at the heart of UNESCO heritage site Al Balad. You can find virtually anything at the shops here, from local produce and spices to authentic handicrafts and traditional outfits to modern electronics and consumer goods, capturing the full essence of Saudi’s cultural tapestry. Take home a piece of history with jewelry, art, handcrafted rugs, and vibrant decorative items that add a touch of Arabian elegance to any space. During Hajj, Souq Al Alawi is a sight to see, with bustling throngs of visitors from across the Islamic World.
Must-Buy: Handicrafts, traditional outfits, home décor
Location: Off Al Dahab St, Al Balad, Jeddah

2.Souq Al Zal, Riyadh

In the Al Dirah neighborhood in the heart of Riyadh, near the iconic Al-Murabba historical palace, Souq Al Zal is one of Riyadh’s oldest traditional markets that carries 100 years of history within its alleyways. As soon as you start your tour and hear the sellers’ voices in the auctions, you will feel that you have traveled to the past of the city. The souq is known for its antiques, rare coins, and old utensils. You may also find musical instruments, old record players, and hundreds of interesting items that seem as if they came from a museum of ancient folk traditions. There are shops of incense, oud, and oriental perfumes. There is also an antiques auction that is held every day in the market for a few hours following the Asr (afternoon) prayers.
Must-Buy: Musky oud perfumes, handmade camel leather slippers, traditional artefacts such as Arabic coffee pots (dallahs)
Location: Ad Dirah, Riyadh 12634

3.Souq Al Dirah, Riyadh

Near the iconic Al Masmak Fort lies Souq Al Dirah, also known as Souq Al Thumari, a haven for aficionados of heritage and art. The labyrinthine alleys of this souq beckon shoppers with a mesmerizing array of local artwork, perfumes, and handicrafts. Dive into the rich culture of Saudi as you browse through unique treasures not found elsewhere. Don’t leave without indulging in the opulence of gold jewelry, crafted with exquisite designs fit for royalty.

Must-Buy: Perfumes, local artwork, gold jewelry
Location: 3138 Abi Jafar Al Mansour St, Ghirnatah, Riyadh

4.Souq Al Tumor, Madinah
Saudi is one of the world’s largest producers of dates, and the city of Madinah is particularly famous for its high quality and variety of offerings, namely the Ajwa dates. These small fruits make for nutritious snacks and are a major part of Saudi culture — the date palm is even the national symbol. They also preserve well, so you can take them home to share a piece of Saudi with your friends and family. Souq Al Tumor, the date market of Madinah is the most famous place to browse and buy dates in Saudi. With over 150 species of dates ranging from the locally-grown favorite Ajwa dates to the rare and expensive Majdool, you’re bound to find a few you’ll love — and many sellers will let you try a sample before you buy.
Must-Buy: Variety of dates
Location: Madinah 42371, Saudi Arabia

5.Souq Qabil, Jeddah

Also known as Qabil Street, or Qabel Trail (on Google Maps), Souq Qabil is a historic market, possibly the oldest in Jeddah. These days, Souq Qabil is known as a lively cultural center, particularly in the evenings during Ramadan and Eids, when it fills with food stalls and traditional entertainment. Despite being a small street, it’s an essential part of any visit to Al Balad, Jeddah’s old town, with web of alleys leading to museums such as Nassif House, Al Matbouli House, and Al Shafie Mosque that preserve a piece of the Jeddah of old.

Must-Buys: Gold, perfumes, abayas, and other traditional dresses
Location: Jeddah Old Town

 

6.Souq Al Qaisariah, Al Hofuf

  1. Step back in time at Souq Qaisariah, a testament to the enduring spirit of tradition. Dating back three centuries, this souq in Al Hasa invites visitors to immerse themselves in the sights and scents of old-world charm. After undergoing restoration, Souq Al Qaisariah now stands as a tribute to its illustrious past. Discover an eclectic mix of spices, incense, and traditional handicrafts, perfect for capturing the essence of Saudi.

Must-Buy: Spices, incense, traditional handicrafts
Location: King Abdul Aziz, Al Rafaa North, Al Hofuf

7.Souq Okaz, Taif

Venture to the ancient city of Taif and discover the enchanting Souq Okaz, a celebration of Saudi’s cultural heritage. Originally an open-air market, Souq Okaz transports visitors to a bygone era of trade and tradition. Experience the magic of the annual Souq Okaz Festival, when poetry, storytelling, and cultural performances take center stage. With over 200 shops and 150 attractions, this cultural extravaganza is not to be missed.

Must-Buy: Handicrafts, traditional textiles, pottery, historical documents
Location: New Taif, Taif 26432, Makkah Al-Mukarramah Province, 26432

While this list is a good start, curious shoppers will find that any souq in Saudi is worth visiting. Whether you’re a seasoned shopper or a curious traveler, a visit to a souq offers a shopping experience like no other that will surely be a highlight of your trip to Saudi.

Saudi Tourism Authority has recently launched the country’s spectacular summer program for 2024, “Saudi Summer is Next Door”. The summer program will run for four months until the end of September, across seven destinations – Aseer, Al Baha, Taif, the Red Sea – a new destination, Jeddah, Riyadh and AlUla. Offering over 550 exceptional tourism products and more than 150 special offers and packages curated for families and children, it caters to diverse segments including adventure lovers, those looking for luxury retreats and activities, and culture and heritage enthusiasts.

It has never been easier, smoother, and safer to visit Saudi – visa initiatives have been continuously developed, with the eVisa program now including 66 countries, reduction of the total price of the eVisa by 20%, as well as the free 96-hour Stopover Visa. To learn more about Saudi and experiencing all the unique experiences with your family, visit https://www.visitsaudi.com/en for more information. Plan your unforgettable trip today!

 

 

(FBL)’s WhatsApp Banking Application has been honoured with the ‘Best Digital API’ Award

Pakistan (Nut Desk)

Faysal Bank Limited (FBL)’s WhatsApp Banking Application has been honoured with the ‘Best Digital API’ Award at the Pakistan Digital Awards 2024. FBL’s WhatsApp Banking offers industry-leading User Interface (UI) and User Experience (UX). It comprises of a host of unique banking services revolutionising the way customers interact with their bank. FBL’s recognition in this category reflects its constant pursuit of innovation and customer centricity in the space of Shariah-compliant digital solutions. The Pakistan Digital Awards celebrate excellence in digital innovation and transformation across various sectors, aligning perfectly with FBL’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technology, to enhance customer experience.

Yousuf Dewan Companies Revives the Legendary Shehzore and Electrifies Pakistan with Honri VE in a Dual Launch

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

For those who thought that an electric car for the masses of Pakistan was a far-fetched dream, they were awestruck as Eco-Green Motors Limited, under Yousuf Dewan Companies, took the automobile market by storm. Yes, it’s here—an electric car for Pakistanis, to be driven without worrying about fuel prices. Simultaneously, Dewan Farooque Motors Limited marked the return of a legend, bringing back the Shehzore with unmatched features.

Eco-Green Motors Limited Unveils the Honri VE Eco-Green Motors Limited unveiled the all-new Honri Ve2.0 in a festive event titled “Future Assembled.” The first locally assembled hatchback electric vehicle is now on the roads of Pakistan. “The Honri Ve is nothing short of a dream come true for Pakistan. A recharge takes you 200 kilometers without worrying about fuel saving 50,000 PKR per month which is a dream come true. The interior and exterior are futuristic and state-of-the-art. Priced at 3,999,000 PKR, it offers remarkable value for its features,” said Saleha Hassan, Director of Sales and Marketing, at the event. Developed with Honri, a Chinese automobile expert, the Ve2.0 is tailored for Pakistani roads. It boasts a 200 km range per charge, advanced technologies like ABS, EBD, and TPMS, and an IP67 dustproof and water resistant lithium battery. “We are committed to bringing this green change and ensuring vehicle charging decks are installed across Pakistan,” said a Punjab Government representative. With over nine dealerships across Pakistan, Eco-Green Motors Limited is set to make a significant impact in the automobile market, with more electric vehicles on the horizon.

Dewan Farooque Motors Limited Reintroduces the Shehzore The Shehzore, a legendary lightweight truck, is back. Earlier today, Dewan Farooque Motors Limited launched the all-new Shehzore at “Future Assembled,” marking the line-off of the Dewan Farooque Motors Limited Sujawal Plant. “The Kia Shehzore reappears as an unmatched proposition, now offering the ‘STANDARD CABIN’ at 3,859,000 PKR, and the ‘KING CABIN’ at 4,179,000 PKR, in addition to the ‘GRAND CABIN’ light commercial pickup priced at 7,499,000 PKR. The Shehzore boasts a powerful high-economy engine, the biggest carrying deck with the best loading capacity, focusing on durability and reliability. The Shehzore Grand Cabin is the first of its kind in the LCV industry with an extra row of seating along with a cargo carrying deck,” said Dewan Muhammad Yousuf Farooqui. Dewan has been a pioneer of innovation in the automobile industry since 1998, introducing Kia, Hyundai, BMW and Mitsubishi to Pakistan. The Dewan Farooque Motors Limited Sujawal Plant is one of the largest and most equipped production facilities in Pakistan. With over ten dealerships nationwide, Dewan Farooque Motors Limited is making a strong comeback amongst well-established players. The KIA K2700 Shehzore, developed with Korean giant KIA, is now locally assembled to meet the needs of the Pakistani commercial vehicle market.

Dewan Carries the Future Again With the dual introduction of the Honri VE and the Shehzore, Yousuf Dewan Companies are leading Pakistan into a new era of automotive innovation. This launch marks a significant milestone, heralding a future where electric mobility and reliable commercial transport drive Pakistan forward.

easypaisa Enables Raast P2M Payments to Digitize Person-to-Merchant Transactions

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

easypaisa, has elevated its service offerings by integrating the Raast P2M (Person to Merchant) payments system on its platform.

The State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) Raast P2M payment mechanism is designed to accelerate the digitization of merchant and business transactions nationwide. The service aims to facilitate and simplify digital payment acceptance for merchants and promote business growth. The strategic move by the SBP reflects a significant leap towards establishing a digital and financially inclusive economy.

With the integration of Raast P2M, all easypaisa users can now seamlessly and securely scan and pay through any Raast P2M QR codes on their smartphones nationwide. Key features of the Raast P2M ecosystem include open-loop static and dynamic QR payments, request to pay (RTP), alias-based payments, instant and real-time merchant settlement, and till codes for customers who do not own smartphones. The SBP-supported dispute resolution mechanism also ensures a robust framework for efficiently resolving payment-related disputes. The integration also enables easypaisa to deploy Raast QR Codes on acquired merchants, which can be scanned through any digital banking app or wallet operating on Raast.

The service enables merchants and small businesses to receive real-time payments from their customers using static or dynamic Raast QR codes. Merchants and business owners can print and display a static QR code on their store’s countertop, allowing customers to make instant payments.  Customers can make payments by choosing the Raast option on their mobile banking app or digital wallet, scanning the code, inserting the transaction amount, and making the payment seamlessly.

Farhan Hassan, Head of easypaisa Wallet Business, remarked, “Integrating Raast P2M with easypaisa amplifies our mission to spearhead a financially inclusive Pakistan, enabling businesses and merchants to receive instant customer payments. Our robust technological framework supports the SBP, our customers, merchants, and businesses in advancing toward a cashless society through seamless person-to-merchant payments. As we transition towards establishing a Digital Retail Bank, pending regulatory approvals, we remain steadfast in driving Pakistan’s digital financial ecosystem forward through our innovative Person to Person (P2P) and Person to Merchant (P2M) service offerings.”

With over 34 million unique IDs, Pakistan’s first instant payment system, Raast, is being used to settle small-value retail payments in real time, providing universal access to all players in the financial industry. easypaisa is at the forefront of digitizing the ecosystem by capitalizing on these digital railroads and introducing new and innovative service offerings for merchants and businesses to facilitate P2M transactions. As part of this effort, easypaisa launched the QR SoundBox earlier this year, which provides instant payment alerts and notifications, enabling real-time communication between merchants and customers, and playing an integral role in accelerating the adoption of digital payment acceptance.

With over 40 million registered mobile accounts and counting, easypaisa remains dedicated in its mission of transforming Pakistan into a financially inclusive society through the power of collaboration and technology.