Star-studded premieres of Peek Freans presents Gluco Allahyar and the Legend of Markhor held in Lahore and Karachi

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Lahore –   Star-studded premieres of Gluco Allahyar and the Legend of Markhor”, the latest animation treat by 3rd World Studios in association with ARY films with main sponsorship partner EBM  and conservation partner WWF was recently held in Lahore at Cinestar Township, and in Karachi at Nueplex Cinemas on 30th and 31st January, 2018 respectively.

A number of celebrities along with their kids graced the premiere including Adnan Siddiqui, Faysal Quraishi, Ahsan Khan, Sarwat Gilani, Zhalay Sarhadi, Aamina Sheikh, Hareem Farooq and Ali Rehman Khan, amongst others, and revealed their and their kids’ excitement about the movie. The celebrity kids also took pictures with the Gluco Allahyar and the legend of Markhor movie character cut-outs.

The story revolves around, Allahyar (Anum Zaidi) and his animal companions Mehru (Natasha Humera Ajaz), Hero (Azfar Jafri) and Chakku (Abdul Nabi Jamali) as they gather courage and strength to embark on a journey to fight the evil hunter Mani (Ali Noor), and save the endangered species. Written, produced and directed by the talented Uzair Zaheer Khan, the brains behind this exceptional venture. The rest of the voice-overs are done by celebrities including Ali Rehman Khan, Hareem Farooq, Arshad Mehmood, Nadia Jamil, Amjad Chaudhry, Arieb Azhar and Ahmed Ali.

“We have received an exceptional response at the premieres, and we are confident that the movie will get a similar response once it releases nationwide on 2nd February,” stated Salman Iqbal, Founder and President of ARY Digital Network.

 Dr. Zeelaf Munir, Managing Director and CEO of English Biscuit Manufacturers (EBM) said, “We are proud to be the official sponsors of the movie that has such a powerful narrative that depicts the importance of wild life conservation, a cause EBM has always believed in and supported”.

“Gluco Allahyar and the legend of Markhor is the best locally produced animated movie in Pakistan so far, and we are thrilled to be associated with it. It has a strong theme, fun and laughter as well as catchy music that makes it a perfect movie for adults and children alike,” stated Jerjees Seja, CEO ARY Digital Network.

Ayesha Janjua, Head of Marketing of EBM said, “Gluco Allahyar and the legend of Markhor is not only a visual treat, but also has a meaningful story-line and a strong lesson for children and adults alike. We are sure the audiences would be able to connect to the movie.”

“It was a surreal feeling to see the audience’s live reaction to the movie at the premiere which has taken us 1.5 years to conceptualize and produce. The credit goes to our entire cast and crew who have worked tirelessly to make Gluco Allahyar and the Legend of Markhor possible,” stated Uzair Zaheer Khan, the CEO of 3rd World Studios. 

Gluco Allahyar and the Legend of Markhor is releasing in cinemas across Pakistan under the banner of ARY Films on Feb 2, 2018.

MOVIE NAME: Gluco Allahyar and the Legend of Markhor

Ajoka’s new play “Chairing Cross” mesmerized the audience.

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Lahore –  Ajoka theatre’s latest presentation “Charing Cross” a spectacular musical epic proved an enormous success here at Alhamra Hall 1. Audience from different walk of life admired the political relevance of the story, performance of young star cast and particularly stunning set of Lahore’s famous Chairing Cross square, which is designed by Aqeel Kazmi from National College of the Arts Lahore.
Written and directed by Ajoka’s executive director Shahid Mehmood Nadeem, the play, takes its audience on a whirlwind journey into the Pakistan’s political history and enables them to take stock and experience the events, particularly major political and social changes on Pakistani landscape with Lahore’s Charing Cross as a witness.
The play features new talent besides Ajoka’s regular performing troupe. The newcomers were selected through auditions and are being trained so that they can perform their roles flawlessly. The play also carries some soul stirring songs and poetry and famous poetry written by the literary giants of the respective era.
Creative choreographer Wahab Shah has choreographed the dance sequence of the play, which has succeeded in getting notable acclaim. Talking about the play, Wahab shah expressed that working with Ajoka have always been a pleasure and this time also they have selected very interesting story which have not only great entertaining strength, but at the same time it presents a salute to the resilient and optimistic spirit of the people for revival of democracy. The production reflects this spirit through song, dance and humour while narrating a grim and sorrowful tale, something which Ajoka has attempted to do over the past 33 years, he concluded.
Play’s writer and director Shahid Nadeem said that Charing Cross remains a symbol of British colonial rule at a junction which is considered the heart of the Lahore. After changing its name to Faisal Square, the place is still a popular destination where people express their anger, their frustrations, their dreams, may it be political rallies, religious dharnas and sit-ins by the workers and political figures. In view of the fast-paced and mind-boggling changes taking place on and around the square, we can say that Charing Cross is a “developing story”.
The play is being presented in collaboration with the Lahore Arts Council and will continue till on 1st February as well.

ITU FINTECH CENTER INKS AGREEMENT WITH KARANDAAZ PAKISTAN FOR FINANCIAL INCLUSION THROUGH TECHNOLOGICAL SOLUTIONS

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Lahore –  Information Technology University (ITU) of the Punjab and Karandaaz Pakistan entered into an agreement to initiate three research projects through the Fintech Center established at ITU. The three specific academic researches undertaken by this FinTech Center will improve the existing knowledge on women’s use of digital financial services and the barriers they face. The research center will help to develop a deeper understanding of the challenges in financial inclusion and exploring the potential of data science and Information Communication Technologies as a viable solution. The signing ceremony held here today was also witnessed by a delegation of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF), which provides funding support to Karandaaz to promote financial inclusion of individuals through digital technologies.Women in Pakistan often face multiple barriers in availing formal financial services. Theses researches will help in understanding and proposing solutions to mitigate these barriers. The researches shall be conducted in Pakistan with technical collaboration between Digital Financial Services Research Group of the University of Washington, Seattle and ITU faculty. One of the researches will focus on viability of a mobile app to form a rotating savings and credit association of women that will help them save and borrow collectively. Another research will help in designing a digital financial system for business and personal use of micro entrepreneur women. The third research will focus on digital solutions to safeguard women against SMS frauds in Pakistan.Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Umar Saif, founding Vice Chancellor of ITU and Chairman PITB said “Joining hands with international development partners Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Karandaz for innovation and research in financial technology space is a welcome step. We envision to partner with local and international entities for financial inclusion through innovative applications of technology. This collaboration would help Pakistan to reform the digital financial services especially with inclusion of women.”

Mr. Jason Lamb, Deputy Director, Financial Services for the Poor, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation said, “We believe more knowledge and research will help trigger greater financial inclusion of women through technology in Pakistan. It is heartening to see academicians stepping up to work closely with the industry in solving issues and that Karandaaz and ITU have partnered to make this possible.”

Ali Sarfraz, CEO Karandaaz Pakistan, emphasized the role of digitization in providing the access of financial services to women. “Fostering financial inclusion for women is a core theme for Karandaaz Pakistan. To make any tangible progress on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, Pakistan needs to act immediately to ensure women’s participation in the process of development. One important aspect of achieving the goal is to improve women’s access to financial services and digital platforms can play a decisive role in bringing the financial services to women,” he added.Karandaaz Pakistan is supporting small and medium entrepreneurs, increasing access to finance for unbanked populations by leveraging digital technologies, developing and disseminating evidence based insights, and encouraging innovation in financial space with funding support from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) and UK’s Department for International Development (DFID).

 

OPPO strengthens its position by Sponsoring HBL Pakistan Super League 2018 as the official Smartphone partner

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  • Hassan Ali is the lead actor in OPPO First TVC of Pakistan

Lahore –  OPPO, the selfie expert and leader is the proud new official Smartphone Partner of HBL Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2018. After partnering as a global partner of the International Cricket Council (ICC) for four years, now OPPO has set a benchmark again in the field of cricket. OPPO has also introduced speedster of Pakistan Cricket team and renowned bowler, Hassan Ali who will be featuring as a lead actor in its first TVC of Pakistan. The TVC will be released officially in an exclusive media conference to be held on the 8th of February 2018 in Lahore.

HBL PSL 2018 will be the third season of the Pakistan Super League, a franchise Twenty20 cricket league which was established by the Pakistan Cricket Board in 2015. It will kick-start from February 22nd in Dubai. The virtual semi-finals i.e Qualifier and Eliminator would be played in Lahore while the Final would be played in Karachi. OPPO becomes the first international smartphone brand to sponsor the PSL. OPPO has been playing a vibrant role in the development and promotion of sports across the country and this endorsement is another testament of the Company’s vision and belief in the potential of Pakistan youth.

Mr. George Long, CEO of OPPO Pakistan said, “OPPO is a big supporter of sports and has always been associated with sports and entertainment globally. Cricket is a game full of passion and moments to remember, creating happiness for millions of people. We are extremely happy to be an official Smartphone brand sponsor of HBL PSL.  OPPO associates itself with the spirit of sport, a spirit that brings people together, just like your moments with Smartphone. This association is all set to take OPPO to newer heights in Pakistan.”

After all the hue and cry on Internet and Media about Hassan Ali starring in his biopic, the truth is finally out that all have been waiting for!

A recent buzz showed the young cricketer Hassan Ali got caught behind the scenes shooting for OPPO’s new first TVC in Dubai. This TVC will be aired from 8th of February 2018 onwards.

Hassan Ali, the leading actor in OPPO’s new TVC shared his experience,

“I am thrilled to be working with OPPO and I am impressed with A.I. Beauty Recognition Technology, 20 MP Selfie Camera and other features of OPPO F5. It’s my first tvc shoot and the experience has been amazine. OPPO is fast becoming a favourite among the youth in Pakistan and I hope my partnership with the brand will be an interesting journey.”

 

OPPO TVC Concept

This is the first TVC which OPPO has officially produced for Pakistan market for HBL PSL and it is edgy, classy, exciting and grand. As it is a popular game in Pakistan it’s a good opportunity for OPPO to be associated with HBL PSL. OPPO represents youth and collaborating with HBL PSL has made Hassan Ali the perfect choice for this new TVC. The new OPPO TVC aims to distinguish the experts from the rest just like OPPO which is well known for being the Selfie expert and leader. The AI Beauty Recognition Technology feature, 20 MP Selfie Camera Full Screen and its distinguished facial tracking is used as a visual device on the cricket field. OPPO personifies the attributes of an expert by using adjectives that draw parallel between a Selfie Expert and a cricket expert. Hence, just like OPPO, Hassan Ali as a cricket expert who sits at the very top in his credential. A remarkable rise of this cricketing star is parallel to the success which OPPO has achieved in the previous years.

About OPPO

OPPO is an ever-evolving global smartphone brand dedicated to delivering customers with the most extraordinary experience through innovative technology, meticulous design and camera expertise.

 

BASF joins the World Plastics Council

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Lahore – BASF joined the World Plastics Council (WPC), a global organization of key leaders in the plastics industry. The WPC promotes industry topics of global relevance like the responsible use of plastics, efficient waste management and solutions to marine littering.

“Doing business in a sustainable manner is an integral part of BASF’s strategy and has been a central inspiration already since its foundation. For example, using by-products of one plant as raw materials for another does limit waste generation and increase efficiency. This Verbund principle is part of BASF’s identity,” explained Raimar Jahn, President Performance Materials, BASF. “Additionally, we are involved in initiatives addressing global challenges and engaging entire value chains such as Operation Clean Sweep®. We implement this international program designed to retain plastic pellets from getting lost in the environment,” said Jahn, representing BASF at the WPC’s 2017 General Assembly in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. “Joining the WPC is a way to be further involved in creating a world that provides a viable future with enhanced quality of life for everyone.”

Abdulrahman Al-Fageeh, Executive Vice President, Petrochemicals SABIC and Chairman of WPC welcomed BASF as new member to help in WPC’s global efforts to deliver sustainable outcomes for the plastics industry, and for society. He said: “Since 2011, our industry has partnered in many efforts to research and prevent marine debris around the world under our ‘Declaration of the Global Plastics Associations for Solutions on Marine Litter’. This has been signed by 70 plastics associations in 35 countries.” The most recent Progress Report lists 260 projects that have been completed or are in progress in various parts of the world.

BASF is as well a member of American Chemistry Council and PlasticsEurope that are associate members of the WPC and working towards a more sustainable, circular and resource-efficient economy. The WPC does not replace national or regional plastics associations. Instead, it focuses on issues that require global or at least multi-regional solutions. For a company such as BASF, present in all markets, these widespread actions can be implemented throughout all the regions to contribute to circular economy and a cleaner tomorrow.

1LINK selects Gemalto PURE white-label EMV technology for PayPak- Domestic Payment Scheme

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Lahore –  1LINK, Pakistan’s largest payment processing body, announced its selection of Gemalto PURE white label payment technology for enabling “Chip and PIN” for its Domestic Payment Scheme, PayPak. The solution will enable 1LINK member banks to launch EMV-compliant contact and contactless cards, mobile payments, Host Card Emulator (HCE) and other digital services. This new initiative will bring an added security and convenience of ‘Chip and PIN’ transactions to millions of cardholders. This agreement was signed by Mr. Najeeb Agrawalla, CEO 1LINK and Mr. Nassir Ghrous, SVP Middle-East, Africa and CIS Banking and Payment GEMALTO.
 
With this deployment, 1LINK will ensure digital security as per EMVCO standards whereby enhancing the EMV ecosystem implementation for Pakistan’s banking community and key stakeholders such as government bodies and mobile network operators. It will also create a clear road map for future digital payment innovation and facilitate seamless and secure transactions. 
 
1LINK PayPak domestic payment scheme is central to efforts to boost financial inclusion in Pakistan where fewer than 20% of the 220 million-strong population currently have access to formal banking. Additionally, it will accelerate implementation of ‘Chip and PIN’ transactions, meeting the State Bank’s objective of achieving EMV implementation by 2018 whereby fulfilling its goal of extending the benefits of formal banking to at least half the population by the end of the decade.
 
Alongside retail and business banking, this will serve to secure and streamline G2P (Government to Person) payments especially welfare programs such as BISP Card, Watan Cards, Pakistan Card, Khidmat Card etc.

Peek Freans presents Gluco Allahyar and the Legend of Markhor, the latest animated adventure from Pakistan

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Lahore –  Peek Freans Gluco, a favourite amongst millions of children and mothers alike, is proud to be the official sponsor of the much-anticipated animated movie, “Gluco Allahyaar and the Legend of Markhor”.

Set to be released on 2nd of February 2018 nationwide, the movie depicts the story of Allahyar, a young Pakistani boy who despite all odds gathers the strength and courage to embark on an adventure for the greater good.  Peek Freans Gluco, healthy and tasty snack fuels Allahyar’s energy and sustains him throughout his journey. Enriched with the goodness of wheat, milk, and butter, Gluco is the perfect biscuit for children who are courageous, energetic, and resilient and believe in standing up for what is right, just like Allahyar.

Produced by 3rd World Studios and spearheaded by Uzair Zaheer Khan, the film aims to educate children to also play their part in protecting the environment. The movie features the lush beauty of Northern Pakistan while also reminding us about the responsibilities of the new generation and what it means to be a Gluco Kid.

The movie is directed by Uzair Zaheer Khan and the rest of the team includes some of the leading names of the Pakistani film industry such as Ali Noor, Ali Rehman Khan, Hareem Farooq, Arshad Mehmood, Nadia Jamil, Amjad Chaudhry, Ahmed Ali, Anum Zaidi, Arieb Azhar, Azfar Jafri and Natasha Humera Ejaz.

“We at EBM, makers of Peek Freans Gluco, have always believed in supporting the upcoming local talent and showcasing their work. This film is a testament of the incredible work being produced in Pakistan and we are proud to be part of this exceptional venture,” says Dr. Zeelaf Munir, Managing Director and CEO of EBM.

 

Zong 4G Delivers Again – Holds its most efficacious Annual Business Conference

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ISLAMABAD – To kick off the New Year with a new confidence to make strides for the digital innovation in the industry, Zong 4G held the most successful event ever, its Annual Business Conference on January 25, 2018 in Islamabad. Rising high on the bouts of optimism, the employees and management embarked on the highest confidence to continue carrying the momentum of largest, yet most stable 4G network, for sustainable growth.

Zong 4G’s CEO Mr. Liu Dianfeng inaugurated the business conference, highlighting the company’s unprecedented growth to maintain and sustain a leading position in the industry. The company’s stable operations with an expansive subscriber base, of over 30 million, are all attributable to the large scale network enhancements and strong results from its data business.

Gearing up for 2018, Mr Dianfeng stated, “Optimizing on more facets for 4G solutions, 2018 will allow Zong 4G’s customers to experience the Digital Revolution. Unparalleled innovation, coupled with increased 4G footprint and enhanced customer experience will be at heart to maintain Zong 4G as the widest, strongest and fastest network of Pakistan.”

More in more, owning true to its commitment, an additional investment of $200M in 2017 has expanded the company’s 4G footprint to all of Pakistan, paving the pathway to making 100% of its network 4G enabled, making it the fastest growing 4G network.

The well-organized conference was held to laud and commemorate the unparalleled growth, the organization witnessed in 2017. Optimizing on its expansion and customer centric endeavors, the company is hopeful to continue its legacy of being number one 4G network.

The premier forum to highlight the achievements, the other senior members of Zong 4G outlined their accomplishments for the 2017, followed by their ambitious plan for 2018. Staying true to its core value, customer centricity, Zong 4G outlined that it will continue to redefine the digital lifestyle through its 4G enabled solutions for a sustainable growth and service delivery for the people of Pakistan.

The conference was hosted by Director Corporate Affairs, Mr. Maham Dard and ended with an auspicious reward and recognition ceremony by its HR department recognizing a team of employees who had strongly contributed to Zong’s growth in 2017.

PACRA upgrades entity ratings of Engro Polymer & Chemicals Ltd

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LAHORE – The ratings recognize Engro Polymer’s established foothold in the local PVC segment and in caustic soda market. This emanates from efficient production process, sound technological infrastructure, and effective control environment. EPCL is the only manufacturer of Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC), having dominant market share. The Company has successfully created liking for its products. Lately, it is enjoying strong margins attributed to improved international dynamics along with incremental domestic consumption; boding well with the overall profitability. Although EPCL has limited influence on both price ends (i) Ethylene – key raw material, and (ii) PVC – key product, import and anti-dumping duties benefit. On d emand side, expanding economy – particularly construction – has led to double digit growth; a trend that is expected to persist. On the Caustic Soda front (the other major product), the company enjoys adequate margins and eloquent market share in the southern region, close to plant location. The uptick in profits, in turn free cashflows, has yielded favorably for EPCL’s financial profile.

Islamabad United Announces Haleeb Foods as Partners Haleeb Foods will come on board as valuable partners for HBL PSL 3

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Lahore:Islamabad United, the winners of the inaugural HBL PSL, is proud to announce its partnership with Haleeb Foods.Haleeb Foods is a leading Foods and Beverage Company, with a primary focus on nutrition, health and the well being of its consumers. Haleeb Foods are pioneers in the dairy sector in Pakistan and have contributed substantially to the continuous growth of the sector.Under the Partnership, Islamabad United and Haleeb Foods have some exciting initiative and campaigns planned, with a strong focus on leveraging the digital marketing space. Fans of ISLU and the PSL will see some exciting and innovative content coming their way.

Regarding this partnership, Memosh Khawaja CEO Haleeb Foods Ltd. stated “It’s a pleasure for Haleeb Foods to partner with Islamabad United which not only offers a great corporate personality fit but also shares our vision for a better Pakistan. Haleeb foods is a pioneer of the dairy industry and aims to be one of the most aspirational dairy and beverage Pakistani companies. Through this partnership we will be able to speak to cricket loving Pakistanis with our new nutritious and delicious brand FLAVA. We wish Islamabad United all the best for the tournament ahead.”

Islamabad United owner Ali Naqvi added, “We are delighted to partner with one of Pakistan’s leading organizations. Not only does Haleeb Foods share our philosophy of bringing international standards and practices to Pakistan, but their work in driving sustainable business practices for a better tomorrow is something that we have in common. Both our organizations have similar viewpoints towards the supremacy of quality, making Haleeb Foods ideal partners for us at Islamabad United.”

Islamabad United is one of the five franchise teams in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and is the winner of the first season of the PSL. The franchise believes in brining change to Pakistani sports with the introduction of international standards of practice and a commitment to continuous progress.