Karaoke Manekineko Opens 14th Outlet at Metro Point Complex

Karaoke Manekineko is excited to announce the grand opening of its 14th outlet at Metro Point Complex, Kajang, on the 19th of October at 11 AM. The new venue, located on Level 3, Lot 3-2, will feature the latest karaoke technology, a diverse song selection, and fun-filled experiences for families and friends.

Karaoke Manekineko, one of the largest karaoke chains in the region, is thrilled to unveil its newest outlet at the Metro Point Complex, Kajang, marking the brand’s 14th location. Set to open on the 19th of October, 2024, at 11 AM, this new outlet continues the brand's commitment to bringing high-quality entertainment experiences to music lovers. The venue will be located on Level 3, Lot 3-2 of the bustling Metro Point Complex, an easily accessible location for visitors in Kajang and surrounding areas.

Known for its fun, family-friendly atmosphere, Karaoke Manekineko has built a reputation as the go-to spot for karaoke enthusiasts. The new outlet will feature state-of-the-art karaoke rooms, equipped with the latest sound systems and high-definition screens to ensure the ultimate singing experience. With rooms available in a range of sizes, Karaoke Manekineko caters to all types of gatherings, from intimate sessions for couples to larger celebrations for friends and family.

At the Metro Point Complex outlet, guests can expect an extensive selection of songs, spanning multiple languages and genres. Whether you’re into classic hits, modern pop, rock, or even anime soundtracks, there’s something for everyone. The user-friendly karaoke system allows customers to easily search for and queue up their favorite tracks, so the fun never stops. Karaoke Manekineko prides itself on offering an inclusive space where everyone, regardless of singing ability, can have a great time.

Beyond its music offerings, the venue is designed to enhance the overall experience. Guests can enjoy a lively, vibrant environment with playful mascots and colorful décor, making it an exciting destination for both kids and adults. The outlet will also offer a selection of snacks and beverages to keep energy levels high during singing sessions.

To celebrate the grand opening, Karaoke Manekineko is planning a special launch event at 11 AM on the 19th of October. Attendees will be treated to exclusive promotions, giveaways, and discounts on karaoke sessions throughout the day. It's the perfect opportunity for both long-time fans of the brand and new visitors to explore the latest addition to the Karaoke Manekineko family.

Since its inception, Karaoke Manekineko has strived to create a welcoming and fun environment where friends and families can bond over a shared love of music. The opening of the Metro Point Complex outlet is a continuation of this mission, further expanding its reach across Malaysia. With its signature mix of affordable pricing, modern facilities, and extensive song choices, this latest outlet is expected to be a popular destination for karaoke lovers in Kajang and beyond.

Mark your calendars and join us at Metro Point Complex on the 19th of October to celebrate the opening of Karaoke Manekineko’s 14th outlet. Bring your friends and family to enjoy an unforgettable karaoke experience, and take advantage of the special promotions and offers available during the launch event. For more information and to stay updated on the latest news and promotions, visit Karaoke Manekineko’s official website and social media channels.

About Koshidaka International KL Sdn Bhd

Koshidaka International was incorporated in 2021 at Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia as a full subsidiary of Koshidaka Holdings. The company serves as a management consultancy arm for the Karaoke Manekineko operations in Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. Karaoke Manekineko is a friendly and safe environment for Karaoke that is designed to accommodate a diverse range of customers, from families with young children to groups of friends and corporate teams.

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES

DESTINYbit announces Innovative “Spaghetti Anime” Sandbox Tactical RPG: NITRO GEN OMEGA

 

DESTINYbit announces Innovative “Spaghetti Anime” Sandbox Tactical RPG: NITRO GEN OMEGA Turning the player into the director of a Mecha Anime!

October 9, 2024 - DESTINYbit, the award winning Italian developer behind Dice Legacy, in collaboration with 4Divinity. Announced today NITRO GEN OMEGA, an innovative “Spaghetti Anime” tactical RPG blending cinematic Mech battles, team management and Sandbox RPG elements, set to release in 2025. 

NITRO GEN OMEGA』Trailer

NITRO GEN OMEGA pushes tactical RPGs in a new direction with an innovative timeline combat system that blends turn-based tactics with cinematic, anime-like visuals, offering players a fresh way to experience strategic battles.

Drawing inspiration from titles like Fire Emblem for team management and Battle Brothers for open-world exploration, NITRO GEN OMEGA offers a unique experience that stands out in the tactical RPG genre. The announcement trailer features striking in-game footage that blurs the line between tactical gameplay and anime, offering an exciting first look at the tactical gameplay they will experience in the battle against the machines, as well as glimpses of the activities the characters can take part in aboard their mobile airship base.

About NITRO GEN OMEGA 

NITRO GEN OMEGA is an innovative "spaghetti anime" sandbox tactical RPG, featuring high-octane cinematic Mech battles which combine deep strategic gameplay with striking visuals that look like you're watching the episode of an anime. Set in a future where humanity lost the war against the machines, you are the commander of a mercenary crew, surviving by taking on contracts for the few outposts still standing. Build and tune your Mech. Recruit pilots and watch them bond aboard the airship: your mobile base. Complete contracts and engage in high-octane cinematic Mech battles featuring a unique timeline system. Play solo or join a persistent online world featuring permadeath, where every character is procedurally generated. 

Asset for Download

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1WEMe2NZPv9FGo3aUq_8SvwpudD4kbZ6L?usp=sharing

『NITRO GEN OMEGA』Steam page

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2525510/NITRO_GEN_OMEGA/

About DESTINYbit

DESTINYbit is a game development studio based in Ravenna, Italy, that strives to make Uncomparable Games. Creators of Empires Apart and the award winning Dice Legacy. Founded in 2016 and acquired by Amplifier Game Invest in 2020, DESTINYbit is part of the Embracer Group.

About 4Divinity Pte Ltd

4Divinity is a digital and retail games publishing company focused on bringing exciting games content from around the world to Asia and introducing Asian content to a global market. Along with its sister company Epicsoft Asia, 4Divinity is partnering with publishers and development studios to introduce brand-new IP to the region. https://www.4divinity.com/

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES

Alsons Power: Energizing Mindanao's Path to Growth and Development

  

GENERAL SANTOS CITY – “Alsons Power is helping unlock the vast potential of Mindanao, fueling communities, and driving sustainable economic growth while prioritizing environmental stewardship,” said Antonio Miguel “Anton” Alcantara, CEO of Alsons Power, at the 33rd Mindanao Business Conference (MinBizCon). The event, held at the KCC Convention Center in General Santos City, brought together key leaders to discuss the future of the region’s economy.

As the power business unit of the Alcantara Group—a Mindanao-focused enterprise with significant investments in energy, agriculture, and real estate—Alsons Power plays a crucial role in supporting the region’s rapid development.

Alcantara shared that the Department of Budget and Management is targeting an economic growth rate of 6.5% to 7.5% by 2025, which is expected to drive an even greater demand for energy.

Data from the Independent Electricity Market Operator of the Philippines (IEMOP) and the Department of Energy show that the Philippines reached a peak energy demand of 17,331 megawatts in 2023, which surged to over 19,000 megawatts by the April 2024. Mindanao mirrored this trend, reaching a peak demand of 2,642 megawatts in April this year, an increase from the 2,323 megawatts recorded in the previous year. These rising figures highlight the nation's growing power consumption, driven by heightened economic activity and rising temperatures.

"Our population is rapidly growing, and every household increases power consumption, upgrading the use of electricity. That's about 100–125 megawatts in Mindanao every year," said Assistant Secretary Romeo M. Montenegro, Deputy Executive Director of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), addressing delegates at the Zamboanga Peninsula (ZamPen) Power Summit last August.

"After 4-5 years, a shortage will happen again, which is why proper timing, coordination in terms of policy and investments, and attracting power investment sectors are a must in Mindanao to avoid the rotating brownouts that happened in the past," Montenegro added.

To help meet this surging power demand, Alcantara outlined Alsons Power’s strategy to expand and diversify its energy portfolio. “We’re committed to developing new power plants with a strong focus on renewable energy while optimizing our existing conventional power assets,” he said.

Currently, Alsons Power has a capacity of over 460 megawatts, serving more than eight million people across Mindanao.

“Alsons Power is focused on building our renewable energy portfolio with various hydro and solar projects at different stages of development and implementation. These projects aim to contribute to the country’s goal of reaching a 35% renewable energy share by 2030 and 50% by 2040,” Alcantara said.

Recently, Alsons Power completed its first foray into the renewable energy landscape with the 14.5-megawatt run-of-river Siguil Hydro Power Plant in Maasim, Sarangani Province. This plant has an estimated annual output of around 95,000 MWh, capable of powering over 40,000 households. Siguil Hydro is the fifth renewable energy project to enter Mindanao's Wholesale Electricity Spot Market (WESM).

Alsons Power is also advancing other renewable projects, including the Sindangan Zambo-River Power Plant with a potential capacity of 8.8 megawatts for the run-of-river hydropower plant and 29 megawatts for the solar power plant.

More than three decades after helping address the Mindanao power crisis and the region's growing energy demands, Alsons Power remains committed to delivering safe, reliable, and affordable energy to the Southern Philippines and beyond. Recently, the Alcantara-led power business unit secured its first retail electricity supply agreement with Holcim Philippines, under which it will supply 80% of the energy needs for Holcim’s facilities in Davao and Lugait, Misamis Oriental.

“Reliable and affordable electricity is a key driver in attracting investments to a region. Our power facilities in Maasim, Sarangani, play a critical role in providing the stable energy needed to support and attract investments, not just within the province but across Mindanao,” emphasized Alcantara.

Alcantara also highlighted the company’s role in attracting large-scale industrial projects, including the multi-billion-dollar Panhua Integrated Steel Plant, a flagship venture by China’s Panhua Group, slated for completion by 2026 in the Kamanga Agro-Industrial Ecozone (KAIEZ) in Maasim, Sarangani.

“As we diversify our power sources, we remain committed to driving Mindanao’s growth, fostering economic progress, and safeguarding our natural resources,” Alcantara concluded.

About Alsons Power

Alsons Power is the power business unit of the Alcantara Group, a Mindanao-focused enterprise with significant investments in energy, agriculture, and real estate.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

APAC Video Streaming Market to Reach $112.89 Billion by 2030, Agora Targets Real-Time Communication Expansion

Agora, Inc. (NASDAQ: API), a pioneer in real-time engagement APIs, has swiftly established itself as a leader in the APAC region by capturing the largest market share in the Real-Time Communication (RTC) industry.

Singapore, 3 October 2024 – The Asia-Pacific (APAC) video streaming market is projected to experience explosive growth, with market size reaching $112.89 billion by 2030, driven by a robust compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22.5% from 2023. This expansion is fueled by surging demand for mobile-first streaming services, particularly in key markets such as Indonesia and Malaysia, where mobile content consumption via smartphones dominates, with 69% and 86% of users respectively streaming on these devices. Amid this boom, Agora, Inc. (NASDAQ: API), a global leader in Real-Time Communication (RTC) technology, is positioning itself to capitalize on these trends, bringing innovative communication solutions to meet the evolving needs of this rapidly expanding market.

The APAC region's video streaming landscape is increasingly defined by a mobile-first approach, necessitating high-performance, low-latency communication solutions to ensure seamless and real-time user experiences. Agora’s cutting-edge real-time engagement technology empowers developers to integrate voice, video, and interactive features effortlessly, making it possible for businesses to deliver the high-quality, instantaneous interactions that users now expect. As the demand for real-time communication (RTC) continues to rise, Agora is uniquely positioned to support businesses looking to engage more deeply with their audiences.

“We are seeing unparalleled growth in the video streaming market, and Agora’s technology is at the forefront of this revolution,” said Tony Wang, Co-Founder and Chief Revenue Officer at Agora. “Our commitment to innovation ensures we meet current demands while anticipating future trends like AI integration, multimodal communication, and immersive AR and VR experiences. The key is enabling businesses to deliver real-time, interactive experiences that keep users engaged, no matter where they are.”

Agora's Real-Time Engagement Platform currently supports more than 60 billion minutes of live voice and video each month, serving over 1,700 clients in more than 200 countries. This represents a 14% year-on-year increase, underscoring the platform's growing significance in powering critical communication services across various industries. Agora’s technology has become integral to the success of 60% of the top 1v1 video apps by revenue, 45% of leading dating apps in Southeast Asia, and 65% of the top 20 voice chat rooms in the region. Furthermore, Agora holds a dominant 40% share among leading live-streaming apps, the highest among third-party RTC providers.

Shaping the future with AI and multimodal communication

Agora’s vision goes beyond traditional RTC technology. The company aims to revolutionize the AI landscape with multimodal solutions combining voice, video, and chat to enable real-time, AI-powered experiences with ultra-low latency, even under varying network conditions.

Multimodal AI is set to transform business operations by fostering human-AI collaboration. For instance, in telehealth, Agora’s AI solutions could streamline diagnoses and make healthcare more accessible. Similarly, sectors like education, entertainment, and customer service are expected to benefit from these AI-driven systems, which offer real-time insights, generate creative content, and provide user-based recommendations.

Innovations like AI-based noise suppression and real-time transcription (RTT) are already integrated into Agora’s platform, enabling superior communication experiences in noisy or low-bandwidth environments. These technologies ensure businesses remain competitive, where user experience and reliability are paramount.

"Agora is actively responding to the rapid shifts in the APAC video streaming landscape," added Effie Fang, Director of Agora’s APAC Sales Team. "Our technology not only supports but also drives innovation in how businesses interact with their audiences. Leveraging our advanced real-time communication solutions, companies can enhance user engagement and capitalize on the market’s explosive growth."

In Indonesia, Everywhere.id has used Agora’s real-time communication technology to drive a 71% boost in user interactions, achieving 13 million minutes of peak monthly engagement. Similarly, Fastwork, a prominent freelancing platform, doubled its chat-to-payment conversions after integrating Agora’s real-time calling API, demonstrating the transformative impact of seamless communication on business performance.

Addressing industry trends and challenges

As the RTC industry evolves, Agora is tackling key trends and challenges, including the rise of 5G, the integration of AI, IoT, and machine learning, and the growing importance of AR/VR and metaverse applications. Agora is not only keeping pace but actively driving these developments. By optimizing its solutions for 5G networks, Agora ensures that its platform delivers top-tier audio and video quality, regardless of location.

Security and privacy are critical concerns in the RTC space. Agora has introduced industry-leading safeguards to protect its users, with a strong focus on compliance and data security, positioning the company as a leader in a market that prioritizes trust and safety.

Looking ahead: Agora’s strategic roadmap

As the APAC video streaming market continues to grow, Agora is focused on staying ahead by pushing the boundaries of AI and multimodal communication. These advancements set the bar for real-time, AI-powered solutions in broadcasting, customer service, and healthcare.

Regional expertise is a key part of Agora’s strategy. By investing in localized training, the company ensures its teams can deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of each market. This ability to customize offerings for different industries and regions gives Agora a strong competitive edge.

Agora is also expanding into high-growth markets like South Korea, Japan, Vietnam, and Thailand, particularly in sectors such as media, entertainment, and live commerce. These areas are rapidly growing, making Agora's technology indispensable in meeting the demands of these industries.

Through focused marketing initiatives, Agora is enhancing its brand visibility and reinforcing its leadership position in real-time communication technology. With innovation, customer success, and market leadership at its core, Agora is shaping the future of communication across APAC.

About Agora

About Agora.io

Headquartered in Santa Clara, California, Agora is a pioneer and global leader in Real-Time Engagement Platform-as-a-Service (PaaS), providing developers with simple, flexible, and powerful application programming interfaces, or APIs, to embed real-time voice, video, interactive live-streaming, chat, whiteboard, and artificial intelligence capabilities into their applications.

This press release has also been published on VRITIMES