HELP University and Borneo Empurau Farm and Resort Sdn Bhd Sign Landmark Memorandum of Understanding to Advance Education, Training, and Research

  

December 8, 2025, Kuala Lumpur, HELP University today signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Borneo Empurau Farm and Resort Sdn Bhd, marking the beginning of a strategic collaboration to strengthen educational, professional, and research initiatives for communities in Sarawak. The ceremony took place at HELP University on 8 December 2025 and was officiated by senior representatives from both institutions.

The MoU was signed by HELP University and Borneo Empurau Farm and Resort Sdn Bhd, represented by its Chairman and Founder, Dato’ Dr Yong Fook Heng, who is also a distinguished DBA graduate of HELP University via the APEL.Q track. The agreement represents a shared commitment to enhancing human capital development through a wide range of academic and professional training activities.

Under this collaboration, HELP University and Borneo Empurau Farm and Resort Sdn Bhd will jointly develop and deliver executive education programmes and professional training,s, staff development initiatives, collaborative research projects and other mutually beneficial education and industry driven activities. The partnership aims to offer high-quality and industry learning opportunities for   professionals, educators, and communities throughout the region.

Dato’ Dr Yong expressed strong confidence in the transformative impact of the partnership,  noting its relevance not only for Sarawak but for wider regional impact in the years to come.. He highlighted that the collaboration will play a crucial role in elevating educational access and training quality, especially in Kuching, Serian, and the Samarahan area. He added that Borneo Empurau Farm and Resort’s strategic location between Kuching and Serian positions it as an ideal hub for educational outreach, community development, and industry-relevant training programs.

According to Prof. Dr. Andy Liew, Vice-Chancellor of HELP University, “This partnership is not just about training in hospitality, agro-industry, or digital skills. It is about offering opportunity, renewal, and hope to individuals who are seeking a second chance. At HELP, we believe that education must touch lives, uplift communities, and restore dignity. This collaboration allows us to put that belief into meaningful action”.

“This MoU marks an important milestone for both HELP University and Borneo Empurau Farm and Resort,” said Dato’ Dr Yong. “Through this partnership, we aim to bring new opportunities in executive education, research, and professional development to the people of Sarawak. Our goal is to empower local communities and industries with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in an increasingly competitive and innovative environment.”

HELP University representatives echoed this sentiment, emphasising the institution’s ongoing mission to provide world-class education and expand its footprint in East Malaysia. The collaboration will allow HELP University to strengthen its engagement with local industries, support workforce upskilling, and generate meaningful research outcomes that contributes to both economic development and social advancement.

This partnership reflects HELP University’s broader strategy to foster industry-academic linkages that create real-world impact. By working closely with a dynamic organisation such as Borneo Empurau Farm and Resort known for its innovative aquaculture practices and contribution to the sustainable farming ecosystem— HELP University seeks to build bridges between academic expertise and evolving industry needs.

The ceremony concluded with both parties expressing optimism for long-term collaboration, with plans to begin programme development and joint activities in the coming months.

About HELP University

HELP University was founded in 1986, and it has developed into a leading institution of higher learning in Malaysia. HELP University offers a wide range of social science, and humanities programmes, and is renowned for its psychology, accounting, business, law, education, and IT programmes. The university has embarked on a transformation journey to become the Analytics-Driven Entrepreneurial University. In 2019, HELP University was awarded the Premier Digital Tech Institution (PDTI) status by the Malaysian Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) for being a leading digital tech-focused institution that produces high quality graduates for the workforce. In 2020 it was awarded an overall 5 Stars rating by the Quacquarelli Symonds (QS) an annual publication of university rankings. QS also awarded 5 Stars to HELP for the following categories: Teaching, Employability, Academic Development, Internationalisation, Facilities, Social Responsiveness, Inclusiveness, and Business and Management Studies (MBA). In 2021, HELP University was ranked No 1 among 650 universities in Asia for Outbound Student Exchange programmes by QS Rankings World University Ranking: Asia 2021. Besides standing as MDEC’s Premier Digital Tech Institution, HELP University was rated BERDAYA SAING (Competitive), the highest category, by the Ministry of Higher Education Malaysia in 2022, and awarded the Employers’ Choice of University by Talenbank in 2024 and 2025. In 2025, HELP ranked 46th globally in the World’s Universities with Real Impact (WURI) rankings for Visionary Leadership, recognising its innovation and governance impact. Designated in 2025 by the International Council for Small Business and the Mayor’s Office of Jinju, South Korea, HELP now serves as a global centre for humane entrepreneurship. Rooted in ethics, dignity, and sustainability, this model redefines business success. Visit https://university.help.edu.my for more information on HELP University.

 

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

 

Villar Foundation Receives DENR Green Legacy Award

 

 The Villar Foundation was recognized by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) with the Green Legacy Award for its outstanding commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship.

The award was presented during the Green Legacy Awards 2025 in Quezon City, held under the theme “Greenerships: Building a Sustainable NCR Together.” The event honored institutions and partners that have significantly contributed to environmental preservation and ecological balance.

In its citation, the DENR highlighted the foundation’s long-running environmental programs, including river rehabilitation efforts, waste reduction initiatives, and extensive environmental education campaigns in communities and schools.

Former Senator Cynthia Villar, Managing Director of the foundation, expressed appreciation for the DENR’s acknowledgment of their work.

“We are honored by this award. Sustainability has always been central to our advocacy. Protecting the environment secures the future of every Filipino family,” Villar said.

Villar has led numerous environmental projects in Las Piñas, including the rehabilitation of the Las Piñas-Zapote River, the Waterlily Weaving Project, the Coco Coir and Coco Peat Enterprise, organic composting programs, and the production of school chairs from recycled plastic waste. She has also championed the conservation of the Las Piñas-Parañaque Wetland Park, a RAMSAR list ecosystem and legislated protected area of Metro Manila.

DENR officials praised Villar Foundation for its “consistent, innovative, and people-centered approach to environmental management.”

The award reaffirms the Villar Foundation’s commitment to expanding its sustainability initiatives and strengthening partnerships with government agencies, schools, and community organizations nationwide.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES

Catriona Gray Visits and Celebrates Wellness and Self-Love with OGAWA

Miss Universe 2018 and OGAWA Philippines’ beloved brand ambassador Catriona Gray lit up the store with her recent visit, radiating joy, warmth, and genuine appreciation for the brand that has become a meaningful part of her personal self-care routine.

Miss Universe 2018 and OGAWA Philippines’ beloved brand ambassador Catriona Gray lit up the store with her recent visit, radiating joy, warmth, and genuine appreciation for the brand that has become a meaningful part of her personal self-care routine. Fresh from reconnecting with the OGAWA community, Catriona shared how the brand continues to support her busy lifestyle. “Wellness is something we should give ourselves every day,” she said during her visit. “With OGAWA, I truly feel that sense of calm, care, and love at home.”

Her visit highlighted her deep connection with OGAWA and reaffirmed her belief in prioritizing one’s well-being. As she explored OGAWA’s flagship offerings,the Smart Reluxe V3 and the MyZonic Lux, Catriona emphasized how both models have helped elevate her approach to rest and recovery, especially during hectic schedules.

The Smart Reluxe V3, now available at a special promotional price of Php 179,000.00 from its SRP of Php 259,000.00, stood out as one of Catriona’s favorites. She admired its smart health monitoring features for blood oxygen and heart rate, which help her stay mindful of her wellness even on packed days. She also highlighted the three Zero Gravity modes, describing them as “a feeling of weightless comfort that melts the stress away,” and praised its twelve automatic programs that cater to different moods, whether she needs energy, relaxation, or deep relief. The hands-free voice command allows her to relax without interruption, while the heat massage mode provides soothing warmth that eases tension after back-to-back commitments.

Catriona was equally impressed by the MyZonic Lux, now priced at Php 149,000.00 from its SRP of Php 249,000.00. She described the experience as “like bringing a personal spa home,” thanks to its advanced 4D massage mechanism that mimics the skilled touch of a therapist. Its attentive body scan and extended SL-track curve perfectly adapt to the body’s contours, giving relief from the neck down to the glutes. With full-body air compression, lumbar heat therapy, immersive audio, and twelve premium auto programs, Catriona shared that the MyZonic Lux helps her recharge after long days of shoots, travels, and hosting engagements.

Her inspiring visit reinforces OGAWA’s message that the gift of love is something we should give ourselves, not once a year, but every day. For Catriona, OGAWA is more than a brand; it is a daily reminder that rest, comfort, and well-being should always be part of our routine. “We give so much of ourselves to others,” she shared, “but we also need to give love to ourselves. OGAWA helps make that easier.”

With over 30 branches nationwide, OGAWA ensures that premium wellness is within reach for every Filipino family. In Metro Manila, OGAWA stores are located in Shangri-La Plaza, SM Megamall, Greenbelt 5, One Ayala Makati, Uptown Mall BGC, Lucky Chinatown Mall, Robinsons Manila, Ayala Malls Vertis North, Eastwood Mall, Robinsons Magnolia, SM Fairview, SM North EDSA The Block, UP Town Center, Greenhills Mall, Promenade Greenhills 3, Gateway Mall, Alabang Town Center, Evia Lifestyle Center, Ayala Malls Manila Bay, OKADA Manila, SM BF Parañaque, and Newport Mall. Beyond the metro, branches can be found in SM City Bacoor, Ayala Solenad 3, and SM Sta. Rosa in Laguna; SM Seaside City Cebu; SM Lanang Premier in Davao; SM Clark in Pampanga; and SM City Olongapo Central.

Whether in-store or online, OGAWA provides a seamless wellness shopping experience. Customers may browse products, inquire, and order through OGAWA’s website and social media platforms, making the journey to wellness only a click away.

Discover OGAWA’s full range of wellness solutions at any nationwide branch, or visit the newest OGAWA Ayala Vermosa store at the 2nd Floor, Bldg. D, Imus, Cavite. Learn more and shop online through OGAWA’s official channels: www.ogawaworld.net.ph, Facebook at OGAWA Philippines, Instagram @ogawaphilippines, and TikTok @ogawaphilippines.

About Boost Advertising Agency

OGAWA Philippines is a leading premium wellness brand dedicated to bringing advanced relaxation technology into Filipino homes. Known for its innovative massage chairs and health-enhancing wellness devices, OGAWA combines world-class engineering with luxurious comfort to help customers recharge, restore, and elevate their everyday well-being. With over 30 branches nationwide, OGAWA continues to make holistic wellness accessible to all.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES 

Bitget Supports Grassroots Football at La Liga Youth Tournament in Manila

 

 Bitget, the world's largest Universal Exchange (UEX), took part in La Liga’s Youth Tournament in Manila, supporting one of Asia’s most exciting grassroots football events focused on promoting sport, community, and camaraderie. Held from November 14 to 16 at the New Clark City Athletics Stadium, the tournament brought together more than 7,000 young players, families, and coaches for three days of competition, community spirit, and youth development.

Bitget’s presence centered on creating a welcoming space for parents and children through its Blockchain4Youth initiative. The booth featured a simple penalty shoot-out activity where kids could unwind between matches, with successful attempts rewarded with complimentary refreshments and La Liga x Bitget branded items. For many families, it became an easy meeting point, offering shade, water, and moments of fun amid a packed tournament schedule.

The event was designed purely around community value. Bitget chose to support an event that was centered around discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship, qualities that are closely related to the company's long-standing youth empowerment initiatives, rather than showcasing products or platforms. Across the weekend, the booth drew long lines of young participants, reinforcing the tournament's festive atmosphere while creating positive touchpoints with parents and local football communities.

“I’ve always believed that the love for football starts early, often on the streets or fields just like this,” said Ignacio Aguirre, Chief Marketing Officer at Bitget. “Being part of La Liga’s Youth Tournament means a lot to us because it’s about supporting passion at the age where it matters most. These kids play with joy, ambition, and imagination, the same qualities that shape great futures, whether in sports or beyond.”

After matchday festivities, viewing parties, and school outreach initiatives throughout the year, the activation was the most recent phase of Bitget's broader partnership with La Liga across Asia. Given that the Philippines is one of the most active sports communities in Southeast Asia, Bitget had a chance to quietly and positively contribute to the competition, fostering cultural ties without using commercial messaging.

Partnerships like this demonstrate Bitget’s conviction that technology and culture flourish when rooted in authentic communities, as it continues to develop into a comprehensive Universal Exchange (UEX). One of the most crucial strategies for fostering trust and developing young people in the area is still to support youth sports.

This Press Release has also been published on VRITIMES