Category: Business

Zindigi, MyTM & Cashin to digitize the pilgrimage experience for Pakistani citizens, pioneering a new era in Hajj convenience.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)  In a groundbreaking move, Zindigi, powered by JS Bank & MyTM in collaboration with Cashin (KSA), has launched an innovative payment system specifically for Pakistani pilgrims, in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. This initiative, unveiled at the LEAP conference this year, introduces a cashless Hajj and Umrah experience, significantly enhancing convenience by reducing fees and taxes. This landmark initiative not only ensures convenience but also sets a precedent for future advancements in pilgrimage services. It represents a key advancement towards the Vision 2030 goal of achieving 70% non-cash transactions by 2030.

For Pakistani pilgrims, the traditional financial challenges of Hajj, including handling numerous transactions for visa fees, accommodation, and transportation, will now be streamlined. They will utilize the Zindigi Debit cards, ensuring all transactions are effortless and seamless, preparing for a pilot test during the Hajj 2024.

Basir Shamsie, President & CEO of JS Bank, reflected on the innovative partnership, saying, “This collaboration represents a significant stride towards facilitating the sacred rituals. It not only advances Pakistan’s commitment to financial inclusion but also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. By introducing a cashless solution tailored for Hajj and Umrah, we are setting new standards in convenience and security, fostering an ecosystem where technology and tradition converge. This initiative is a bridge that underscores our shared vision for a future where economic and technological progress serves everyone.”

Noman Azhar, Chief Officer Zindigi stated, ‘Zindigi exist to make a meaningful impact in the lives of customers beyond borders. This initiative perfectly embodies our vision to offer simple yet impactful financial services. With around 4 million people from Pakistan embarking on the sacred journey of Hajj and Umrah to Saudi Arabia each year, this represents significance of Zindigi’s contribution in facilitating masses. We are excited to be part of such impactful initiatives that resonate with the core purpose of existence.’

Sheikh Jawad Mahmood, CEO of MYTM LLC in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, heralds the new collaboration with JS Bank and Cashin as a milestone in financial technology. The introduction of the Sullis Product, aimed at serving the ‘Guests of Allah’, is set to revolutionize the pilgrimage experience for Pakistani worshippers by offering a seamless banking service across borders. In alignment with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 for a cashless economy and Pakistan’s strategy to increase financial inclusion, this initiative promises a digitized payment solution that ensures security, advantageous currency exchange rates, and tax-free transactions for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims. More than just a corporate alliance, this venture represents a strengthening of ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia.

Omar Al-Rammah, CEO Cashin Saudi Arabia commented, “This partnership represents a significant step forward in our mission to drive digital transformation and financial inclusion as Saudi Arabia continues its journey towards a digital future, we are committed to pioneering solutions that focuses to enhance pilgrims and tourist payment experience and satisfaction and contribute to the realization of Saudi Arabia Vision 2030. This strategic partnership will leverage Cashin’s cutting edge payment technology expertise with Zindigi, JS BANK and MyTM’s innovative solutions, which aims to simplify the payment experience of pilgrims and tourists.

The signing ceremony was attended by key stakeholders from both Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, underlining the commitment to enhancing the Hajj experience through technology. Basir Shamsie, President & CEO of JS Bank, Noman Azhar, Chief Officer of Zindigi, Adeel Hijazi, Chief Marketing Officer of Zindigi, and Rao Umer Farooq, Head of International Business, were joined by representatives from relevant authorities in Saudi Arabia at the signing ceremony. Among the attendees from MYTM were Dr. Sohail Zafar Cheema, Chairman of MYTM Pakistan; Zain Farooq, CEO of MYTM Pakistan; Sheikh Jawad Mahmood, CEO of MYTM Saudi Arabia; Muhammad Usman Khan, CTO of MYTM Pakistan; Iftikhar Shahid, Director of Technology at MYTM LLC Saudi Arabia; Saad Sarwar, Director of Payment System at MYTM LLC Saudi Arabia; Moaz Mirza, Director of Investments at MYTM Pakistan; Talal Mahmood, CFO of MYTM Pakistan. Additionally, present were Omar Al-Rammah, CEO of Cashin, Shaikh Abdul Quddus, Chief Fintech Officer of Cashin, Obay Al-Madi, Chief Business Officer of Cashin, and AbdulKareem Zirk, Chief Technology Officer of Cashin.

IGATEX PAKISTAN – Country’s Largest Garment, Textile, Digital Printing Machinery & Accessories Exhibition and Conference to open its doors in Lahore.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir)  Fakt Exhibitions (Pvt.) Ltd. will be organizing IGATEX PAKISTAN, International Garment, Textile, Digital Printing Machinery & Accessories Exhibition and Conference from 1^st to 4^th May 2024, at Expo Centre Lahore.

The pioneer event of its kind has continually set the benchmark for excellence over its 22-year history. This year’s edition promises to surpass all expectations, showcasing cutting-edge garment, textile, digital printing machinery, and technology. With a focus on introducing the latest expertise and innovations, the tradeshow is poised to unlock new business opportunities, enhance export value, and stimulate economic prosperity within the country.

Alongside the exhibition, IGATEX PAKISTAN Conference will take place on 2^nd May 2024 at Expo Centre Lahore. The conference will provide a platform for industry stakeholders and thought leaders to exchange insights and explore innovative solutions, sustainability and technological advancement in the textile and garment sector.

Saleem Khan Tanoli, CEO of Fakt Exhibitions (Pvt.) Ltd. said “IGATEX PAKISTAN is not just an exhibition it’s a testament to our commitment towards fostering innovation and driving economic growth within Pakistan’s textile industry. The event will provide an opportunity for knowledge exchange and forge meaningful business connections. IGATEX PAKISTAN will once again bring together industry leaders, innovators, and stakeholders to unlock unlimited opportunities for growth and collaboration.” 

As the most significant event of its kind in South Asia, IGATEX PAKISTAN 2024 will host over 500 exhibiting companies from 30 countries, including Austria, Belgium, China, Germany, Italy, Japan, Pakistan, Spain, Switzerland, Turkey, the UK, and the USA. The visitors will witness an array of innovative machinery models and versatile solutions poised to revolutionize textile applications and production processes.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

TECNO, Pakistan’s premier smartphone brand, is gearing up to unveil its highly anticipated product line of the year, the CAMON 30 series, at a grand fashion show event on April 30th in Karachi.

This event promises to be truly exceptional, breaking all previous records set by TECNO and even other smartphone brands. To maintain the excitement and keep the fire burning at the event, a concert will be held featuring one of the biggest singers in the music industry.

With extraordinary camera capabilities, avant-garde design, and exceptional specifications, the new CAMON 30 Series is pure magic encapsulated in a phone case. To elevate the imaging experience, TECNO’s collaboration with SONY for the SONY IMX890 Sensor and CXD5622GG Imaging Chip has set a new standard for phone photography and videography.

“We have been collaborating closely with smartphone manufacturers like TECNO to continuously refine image sensors, offering the best imaging solutions. The new flagship CAMON 30 series features SONY’s IMX890 image sensor, promising excellent low-light sensitivity and outstanding night photography. Combined with TECNO’s optimization, it delivers an exceptional imaging experience. We express gratitude to TECNO for their trust in SONY and look forward to advancing mobile imaging with LYTIA and TECNO CAMON, benefiting everyone. We also eagerly anticipate more such future collaborations with TECNO, aiming to bring joy to consumers worldwide,” says Katsumi Toma, Senior Director of SONY Semiconductor Solution.

Featuring an impressive configuration with up to 12 GB of memory and 512 GB of storage, 70W fast charging, and a 5000mAh battery, the series embodies a classic side-axis camera design, the industry’s first suede Tech-Art Leather back panel, and an innovative Lotus Leaf Biomimetic Skin.

Available in stunning colors such as Alps Snowy Silver, Hawaii Lava Black, Iceland Basaltic Dark, Uyuni Salt White, Emerald Lake Green, and Sahara Sand Brown, The new CAMON 30 Series will soon be available on the market following its grand launch, which already sounds quite interesting and exciting.

 

Secretary HUD & PHE lauds CBD Punjab’s progress in infrastructural enhancement and economic growth, highlighting the authority’s pivotal role in transforming Punjab’s urban landscape.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Secretary Housing, Urban Development & Public Health (HUD & PHE) Punjab, Captain (R) Asad Ullah Khan, made a significant visit to the Punjab Central Business District Development Authority (PCBDDA), also known as Central Business District Punjab (CBD Punjab), upon his arrival, Secretary Asad Ullah Khan was warmly welcomed by the CEO of CBD Punjab, Imran Amin. The visit commenced with an introductory meeting, chaired by Secretary HUD & PHE Captain (R) Asad Ullah Khan. The meeting was attended by Additional Secretary HUD & PHE Omar Farooq, Executive Director Technical CBD Punjab, Riaz Hussain; Executive Director Legal CBD Punjab, Barrister Bilal Afzal Khokhar. Director Architecture and Planning CBD Punjab, Sameer Aftab Sial, Director Business Development CBD Punjab, Ali Waqar Shah, Director Project Management CBD Punjab, Asif Iqbal, Director Construction CBD Punjab, Asif Babar, Director Marketing CBD Punjab, Waseem Siddiq, Director HR CBD Punjab, Palwasha Mengal, alongside other esteemed officials of CBD Punjab. During the meeting, Secretary HUD & PHE Captain (R) Asad Ullah Khan was provided with a comprehensive briefing on CBD Punjab, its operational framework, and ongoing projects. The focal point of discussion revolved around the establishment of Pakistan’s inaugural and largest IT city, Nawaz Sharif IT City, and the forthcoming auction of six commercial and six residential plots within the CBD Punjab. Highlighting recent endeavors, the authority emphasized its strategic alliances with international universities and IT corporations, forged during a recent visit to China for Nawaz Sharif IT City. Moreover, Secretary HUD & PHE Captain (R) Asad Ullah Khan was apprised of notable achievements, including the remodeling of Kalma Underpass, the construction of Captain Karnal Sher Khan Shaheed Flyover, and the inauguration of CBD Route 47. CBD Punjab is on the verge of completing the Walton Road Railway Crossing Flyover and Walton Road Upgradation projects, underscoring its commitment to infrastructural development and urban enhancement. During his visit Secretary HUD & PHE Captain (R) Asad Ullah Khan said, “I appreciate the progress made by CBD Punjab. I want to reiterate the government’s unwavering support towards realizing the objectives of the authourity. The development initiatives undertaken by CBD Punjab are instrumental in fostering economic growth and prosperity in the region.” CEO CBD Punjab Imran Amin expressed his gratitude for appreciating CBD Punjab’s projects. He said, Secretary HUD & PHE sentiments truly align with ours. I want to emphasize CBD Punjab’s dedication to pioneering innovative solutions and fostering an environment conducive to investment and development. Our goal remains clear to transform Punjab into a thriving hub of economic activity and technological innovation.” The visit concluded on a note of optimism, reaffirming the commitment to strive hard for advancing Punjab’s urban landscape and fostering sustainable growth.

There is one such name, TECNO, Pakistan’s leading phone company, which has established itself over the past decade by consistently improving the quality of its products. Alongside enhanced quality, TECNO continually introduces its users to advanced technology, while maintaining the element of style in each product line. This commitment to quality, innovation, and design has been instrumental in TECNO’s success and popularity among consumers in Pakistan

Once again, the company sets a new standard with the latest CAMON 30 series. Beyond the eye-catching design and ultra-smart specs, they have redefined camera technology by collaborating with SONY, the biggest industry leader in imaging technology. Yes, you heard it right! The new CAMON 30 Series is using the Sony IMX890 Lens in its Pro and Premium version to achieve excellent low-light shooting effects. This collaboration not only highlights TECNO’s advancing capabilities but also underlines their dedication to providing their users with the best possible camera technology, letting them capture every moment with clarity and detail.

Consisting of four models: CAMON 30 Premier 5G, CAMON 30 Pro 5G, CAMON 30 5G, and CAMON 30, the new CAMON 30 Series provides an enhanced professional imaging experience, marking a new height in smartphone photography. This advancement is more than just a regular upgrade; it reflects TECNO’s years of hard work and its dedication to improving its patrons’ experiences by pushing the boundaries of innovation and creativity.

The Sony IMX890 1/1.56” sensor is a key component, allowing more light into the lens, which increases sensitivity, resulting in capturing every shot beautifully with clarity. Assisted by OIS, during the day, the 50MP ultra-high-definition lens captures every detail without missing a beat. At night, the industry-leading pixel fusion technology transforms the main camera lens into a night vision tool, recording all the details of the night without compromising the image quality. The f/1.88 aperture provides a better depth of field effect during the day and increases the amount of light entering at night, while simultaneously reducing noise in poor lighting environments. OIS optical anti-shake eliminates the shakiness when shooting at night by reducing motion blur for crisp and clear low-light shots.

With all these specifications, the TECNO CAMON 30 Series camera claims to outperform all the 200 MP cameras around the globe. This claim has been substantiated through various reviews, test shots, and awards. Moreover, the quality of the images taken with the 50MP camera speaks louder than any claim. Whether it’s a breathtaking scenic landscape, with its majestic mountains and tranquil waters, or a captivating portrait, capturing the depth of human emotion, each photo serves as a canvas for your artistic expression. The adjustments to any light conditions are evident in every shot taken by the CAMON 30 series.

In order to provide flagship imaging experience beyond still photography, the series also leverages the power of the Sony CXD5622GG Imaging Chip, achieving exceptional mobile videography to authentically capture the world’s beauty. It incorporates the industry’s first end-side FP16 floating-point computing, delivering an unmatched computing power of 4.6TFLOPS@FP16. It enables groundbreaking features, including Industry-First 4K 30fps Full-scene AI-NR HDR Video, overcoming traditional limitations in computing power to achieve high dynamic range, even in the most challenging lighting conditions. This technological advancement significantly expands the range of light and dark intensities captured in a single image, resulting in more accurate and detailed imaging. Additionally, the chip enables Dual Chips 4K Ultra-night Vision, utilizing a deep learning noise reduction algorithm to significantly reduce video noise, ensuring crystal-clear video. Moreover, it facilitates Dual Chips 4K Portrait Video, eradicating color noise by internally employing a 20-bit color range, allowing supremely realistic color saturation in portrait videos.

This latest addition to the TECNO family is undoubtedly set to become the top choice for photography enthusiasts, owing to its extraordinary features and stunning results. With the CAMON 30 Series, embarking on a career as a content creator, photographer, or videographer is now as simple as having a good phone in your hands. Moreover, for those who cherish capturing every single detail of their day to preserve memories for years without compromising on quality, the CAMON 30 Series is the real deal.

 

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)

Ahsan Zafar Syed has assumed the office of President & CEO Engro Corporation, after the completion of Ghias Khan’s seven-year tenure at the Group. He began his journey with Engro in 1991 as a young engineer, accumulating three decades of experience in operations, project management, and strategic leadership across the petrochemical, energy, and food & agriculture sectors.

Before his appointment as President and CEO of Engro Corporation, Ahsan led Engro’s flagship fertilizer business. Under his leadership, Engro Fertilizers became the most valuable fertilizer company on the Pakistan Stock Exchange. The increase in valuation is attributable to portfolio optimization where the company divested low return noncore businesses, improved market positioning of Engro urea, scaled up specialty fertilizers, enhanced digital presence to better serve the farmers, and completed one of the largest turnaround activities at the Plant site focused on driving efficiencies and debottlenecking urea capacity. In his earlier role in the Company, Ahsan led the construction of the $1.1 billion Enven Plant, a milestone achievement for Engro and one of the largest projects completed in Pakistan.

During his tenure as CEO of the Energy vertical, Ahsan played a pivotal role in realizing Pakistan’s Thar dream by unearthing indigenous coal and operationalizing a 660MW power plant at mine mouth. This project has been instrumental for Pakistan’s energy security, achieving import substitution of $1.5 billion till date and providing electricity to 9 million people annually.

On assuming office Ahsan Zafar Syed said, “I am deeply humbled to assume the role of President & CEO of Engro Corporation. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Board for their confidence in me and appreciate the contributions of my predecessor Ghias Khan. I am excited to lead the organization that is committed to addressing pressing issues of our time, recognizing their dynamic and ever-evolving nature. In this journey, we will adhere to our core values, contribute positively to the communities we operate in, and cultivate trust-based relationships with our employees, shareholders, and wider society.”

In recognition of his engineering contributions to Pakistan, Ahsan was awarded the prestigious “National Engineering Excellence Award” by the Institution of Engineers Pakistan in 2024. He was also appointed as Honorary Convenor of the Light Engineering Sector, a committee formed by Engineering Development Board – government body under Ministry of Industries & Production entrusted to strengthen engineering base in Pakistan.

Ahsan has championed multiple diversity and inclusion (DE&I) initiatives across Engro to increase women representation in mid-management roles to nurture them as future leaders. His dedicated efforts in this area have not only earned Engro several prestigious local and global awards but have also set a benchmark for inclusive practices within the industry. Further, Ahsan firmly believes that Pakistan’s true potential lies in investing in the upskilling and empowerment of its youth, preparing them to excel in the future landscape. This conviction drives his ongoing commitment to bridge the gap between education and industry needs.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)

The academic council of Preston University (PU) Karachi formally
decided to launch four faculties and eight departments to provide
higher education to students  in different disciplines.

After the reform of November 2023, the new management convened the
first academic council meeting under the chair of the Chancellor of
the University, Naveed Yusuf.  The Pro-Chancellor, Mohammad Miraj
Sahib, Chief Executive Director Syed Riaz Ahmed Sahib, industrial
experts along with the internal and external faculty members
participated in the academic council.

The participants approved the introduction of four faculties at its
campus, including (1) Faculty of Biological Sciences (2) Faculty of
Social Sciences and Humanities (3) Faculty of Management Sciences and
(4) Faculty of Engineering and Technology based on eight departments.
Four-year BS and two-year ADP programs and MS/M. Phil programs were
also approved. Slogan, Mission and Vision statements were approved
after some modifications.

The minutes of the academic council were forwarded to BoG. At the end
of the meeting, Chief Executive Director Syed Riaz Ahmed appreciated
the tireless efforts of the team by saying, ‘I believe that your team
will make Preston University an ideal educational  institution’.

Pro-Chancellor of Preston University, Muhammad Miraj Sahib, thanked
the members of the academic council. He said that it is a matter of
pride that we have the profession of prophets. He further said today’s
time and gathering reflects the Quaid-e-Azam’s vision for the
development of Pakistan. In the end, he prayed for Allah Almighty’s
assistance and guidance to deal with the matters honestly.

inDrive Rozgar Initiative: Empowering Communities with Sustainable Livelihoods Under this Program, inDrive and Hands Pakistan aims to establish 100 SMEs in Major Cities.

Pakistan (Muhammad Yasir)  inDrive, a leading ride-hailing company, is proud to announce the launch of the inDrive Rozgar initiative. This groundbreaking project aims to establish 100 SMEs (Small and Medium Enterprises) in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, with an investment of 7.5 million PKR from inDrive. The partnership between inDrive and HANDS Pakistan signifies a significant step towards empowering communities and fostering economic independence. Sidra Kiran, PR and Communications Lead at inDrive Pakistan emphasized the significance of the partnership, stating, “We are thrilled to partner with HANDS Pakistan to launch the inDrive Rozgar initiative. This collaboration reflects our commitment to driving positive change and empowering communities in Pakistan. Through sustainable entrepreneurship, we aim to create opportunities for individuals to thrive and contribute to the country’s development by providing sustainable livelihood opportunities to marginalized individuals in urban areas.” Maaz Tanveer, Head of Communication and Resource Development at HANDS Pakistan, expressed his gratitude for the partnership, stating, “Our partnership with inDrive is a key intervention in furthering our vision of Khudmukhtaari (self-reliance). Through the establishment of 100 SMEs provided to marginalized individuals in Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad, we are making over a hundred families self-sustainable.” The inDrive Rozgar initiative comes at a critical time, addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by communities, particularly in the wake of recent inflationary pressures. This partnership aims to provide long-term support to individuals and families, ensuring Long-term economic stability beyond the immediate aftermath of Ramadan. “We are thankful to inDrive for their support and look forward to building our partnership further in the future,” added Maaz Tanveer. The inDrive Rozgar initiative underscores inDrive’s commitment to social responsibility and driving positive change in communities. Through strategic partnerships and impactful initiatives, inDrive continues to make significant contributions to Pakistan’s socio-economic development.

DELEGATION VISIT CULMINATES IN PROMISING INVESTMENT PROSPECTS FOR NAWAZ SHARIF IT CITY, FOREIGN INTEREST PEAKS.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) A high-profile delegation from the Pak-China Business Council, led by Christine Liu Lie, General Manager of Shenzen Caiyu Industrial Investment Development, recently visited Nawaz Sharif IT City (NSIT) to explore potential investment opportunities. The delegation, comprising esteemed members including Chen Jian Lu, Chen Dabao, and Shafiq ur Rehman, Secretary General of the China Pakistan Business Council. During their visit, the delegation was briefed comprehensively about NSIT and the plethora of investment opportunities it offers. The presentation highlighted the strategic advantages of NSIT and its potential to serve as a hub for technological innovation and economic growth in Punjab. Expressing keen interest in the opportunities presented, the delegation expressed enthusiasm towards potential investments in NSIT. They acknowledged the significance of NSIT in fostering bilateral economic ties and appreciated the efforts being made to facilitate foreign investment in the region. Following their visit to NSIT, the delegation attended a high-profile meeting chaired by CEO CBD Punjab, Mr. Imran Amin. The meeting was also attended by key officials including Executive Director Technical, Mr. Riaz Hussain, Director Marketing, Mr. Waseem Siddiq, Director Project Management, Mr. Asif Iqbal, and Deputy Director Urban Planning, Mr. Nasir Maqbool. During the meeting, discussions centered around the investment potential of NSIT and ways to facilitate Chinese investment in the project. The Chinese delegation expressed their confidence in the project and gave a green signal for investment by Chinese investors. Commenting on the occasion, CEO CBD Punjab, Mr. Imran Amin, stated, “We are delighted to welcome the delegation from the Pak-China Business Council to NSIT. Their interest and commitment to exploring investment opportunities in NSIT are testament to the project’s potential to drive economic growth and technological innovation in Punjab.” Furthermore, CEO CBD Punjab, Imran Amin, extended an authority letter to the Chinese delegation, granting them the necessary authorization to proceed with investments in NSIT. Christine Liu Lie, General Manager of Shenzen Caiyu Industrial Investment Development, expressed confidence in the safety and viability of investments in NSIT, stating, “Investment in NSIT presents a unique opportunity for Chinese investors. We believe it will be a game-changer for the economic development of Punjab and look forward to contributing to its success.” The visit of the Pak-China Business Council delegation marks a significant milestone in the journey of NSIT towards becoming a leading destination for technology-driven investment and innovation.