Bridge to the German market: Trade and investment agency NRW.Global Business opens ASEAN Service Desk in Kuala Lumpur

1. Germany’s most important economic region, North Rhine-Westphalia, is strengthening its presence in the ASEAN Region.
2. Business Roundtable “Business Opportunities between NRW and Malaysia – Introducing NRW.Global Business ASEAN Service Desk” brings together companies and multipliers from both states. 

North Rhine-Westphalia (NRW), Germany’s most important economic region, is strengthening its international presence in Southeast Asia. The state-owned trade and investment agency, NRW.Global Business is opening a new ASEAN Service Desk in Kuala Lumpur to signal the intensification of economic relations between NRW and the ASEAN countries. The official opening took place today as part of a business roundtable with the Malaysian-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MGCC).

The ASEAN countries are among the world’s most dynamic growth regions. Their economic relations with Germany are growing in importance. With the Service Desk, NRW.Global Business is establishing its first permanent point of contact in the region. The Service Desk will provide companies and potential investors from the ASEAN region with direct support on site, ranging from comprehensive information about NRW as a business location and investment conditions to practical assistance with specific location projects.

Felix Neugart, CEO of NRW.Global Business said, “With our ASEAN Service Desk, we aim to raise the profile of NRW as an innovative and attractive business location in the ASEAN region, intensify bilateral trade and investment relations and promote cooperation in future-oriented areas such as digitalisation, sustainable technologies and research. The ASEAN countries are important partners for us: They offer new sales and procurement markets as well as opportunities to establish business contacts with innovative companies and institutions. By establishing a direct presence, we are creating a point of contact to better leverage this potential together with local partners.”

The Business Roundtable on “Business Opportunities between NRW and Malaysia – Introducing NRW.Global Business ASEAN Service Desk” provides the framework for the official opening. Here, companies, local authorities, economic development agencies and multipliers from Malaysia and NRW come together to discuss opportunities for investment, cooperation and market development.

Jan Noether, Executive Director of the Malaysian-German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MGCC), said, “We are delighted to be implementing the ASEAN Service Desk together with NRW.Global Business. NRW offers diverse opportunities for companies from the ASEAN region and the new service desk will significantly contribute to facilitating market access and further deepening relationships.”

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MR.DIY Celebrates 20th Anniversary with a Star-Studded
Concert Celebration at Stadium Merdeka

MR.DIY is turning 20 — and they’re celebrating with the most star-studded live concert in town! To mark its 20th anniversary, MR.DIY is hosting a massive concert on Friday, 11 July 2025, at Stadium Merdeka in Kuala Lumpur. It’s set to be a once-in-a-lifetime night of music, celebration, and unforgettable memories.

Starting from 31 May 2025, customers will need to spend RM40 or more at any MR.DIY outlets nationwide to stand a chance to redeem two (2) free concert tickets. They can access the form to redeem by scanning the QR code on the official posters in-store or visit their website. Quantities of tickets are limited to the first 3,000 eligible redemptions — so you’ll want to act fast before they’re gone!

This concert will bring together a legendary lineup of artists across languages and genres. From Mandarin pop queen Penny Tai, to legendary icons Ella, Awie, and Amy Search, to vocal powerhouses like Jaclyn Victor and Shila Amzah, plus new-gen stars Lee Pei Ling and the explosive trio 3P — this is the kind of artist lineup fans can only dream of. And they’ll all be performing live, on one stage, for one night only!

But this event isn’t just about the live concert. The concert will feature a full-on festival atmosphere with dazzling laser light displays, a breathtaking fireworks show, tons of food and drinks, eye-catching photo ops for your IG feed, exciting lucky draws, and non-stop fun from the moment gates open. Every corner of Stadium Merdeka will be buzzing with energy and excitement.

For full details, visit mrdiy.com/concert2025 and be sure to follow MR.DIY on Facebook and Instagram for the latest updates.

MR.DIY 20th Anniversary Concert

Date: Friday, 11 July 2025

Time: 5:30 PM onwards

Venue: Stadium Merdeka, Kuala Lumpur
Redemption Start : 31 May 2025

#MRDIY #MRDIY20Years #MRDIYAnniversaryConcert #MRDIYConcert2025 #Shop&Redeem

HoYo FEST 2025: Southeast Asia’s Most Anticipated HoYoverse Event Returns this July!

1. Creators and Fan Artists take the spotlight with Artist Alleys and HoYo FEST Stage Showcases
2. 1-Day Passes, Multi-Day Passes, and Fast Passes available from June 24

Celebrate and gather with fellow fans of Genshin Impact, Honkai Impact 3, Honkai: Star Rail, and Zenless Zone Zero as HoYo FEST returns in 2025! Taking place from July 24 to 27, 2025, HoYo FEST invites players and fans across Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam to celebrate their favourite HoYoverse titles, and create unforgettable memories.

An Event Not To Be Missed by HoYoverse Fans

Now in its 5th year, Southeast Asia’s premier HoYoverse event – which has grown in scale over the years - is now taking place in exhibition centers across six cities. 

HoYoverse fans will be treated to 4 days of onsite activities including themed booths done up in their favourite HoYoverse games. They also be able to take home event exclusive Genshin Impact, Honkai Impact 3, Honkai: Star Rail, and Zenless Zone Zero freebies, get the chance to purchase HoYo FEST exclusive items, be able participate in a lucky draw, and check out HoYoverse inspired merchandise from their favourite creators at HoYo FEST’s Artist Alley.

Championing Creators and Fan Artists

Following its introduction in Indonesia’s and Vietnam’s HoYo FEST in 2024, HoYo FEST’s Artist Alley will also debut in each HoYo FEST across Southeast Asia in 2025. 

Typically held in Anime Comic Gaming (ACG) conventions, Artist Alley is where local artists can showcase and sell their own ACG inspired creations. At HoYo FEST 2025, fans can expect HoYoverse inspired merch from their favourite local artists and creators. This marks the first time that a gaming company is allowing fan-created merchandise to be sold at its own event in Southeast Asia.

Additionally, with the new Stage Segment, Cosplayers, Performers and Fan Artists can showcase their talents on the HoYo FEST stage. HoYoverse is proud to welcome creators and performers, who are inspired by HoYoverse’s games, to the Artist Alley and to the Stage.  The final line up for the artists and performers that will be showcased at each country will be announced in late June.

Tickets for sale soon

Tickets for HoYo FEST will go on sale starting June 24, 2025, at 11:00 AM (UTC+8) on the official HoYo FEST website at https://hoyo.link/wqjjLntrY 

Fans can choose from 1-Day Passes, Multi-Day Passes, or Fast Passes. Fast passes will come with early entry privileges, exclusive items, and priority access to HoYo FEST booths and activities.

The Ultimate Gathering for HoYoverse fans

From exclusive merchandise to vibrant community showcases, HoYo FEST 2025 is the gathering for HoYoverse fans to come together, connect, and celebrate their shared love for gaming and creativity. We look forward to welcoming our fans to experience HoYo FEST this July.

For full event details and ticket purchase information, visit the official HoYo FEST 2025 website: https://hoyo.link/wqjjLntrY.

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Weddings by Marriott Bonvoy: Indonesia & Malaysia 2025 Showcase Celebrates  Love-Filled Moments and Announces Grand Prize Winners 

Grand Prize Winners of the Malaysia Marriott Bonvoy Wedding Showcase 2025,  Powered by AFFIN Group with Representatives from Marriott International  

Love was in the air as Weddings by Marriott Bonvoy: Indonesia  & Malaysia 2025 Showcase concluded with resounding success, transforming dreams  into reality for countless couples across two spectacular destinations. Held at The Starhill  Atrium in Kuala Lumpur and The St. Regis Jakarta, the two-day showcases united over  40 of Marriott Bonvoy’s hotels and resorts, promising unforgettable beginnings for every  love story. 

From the serene shores of Bali to the opulent ballrooms of Kuala Lumpur, the showcases  brought together a stunning array of wedding inspirations, premium services, and  bespoke experiences. Couples discovered endless possibilities to bring their fairytale  weddings to life, guided by top-tier wedding planners, celebrated designers, and the  world-renowned hospitality of M Bonvoy.

From breathtaking fashion shows, exclusive offerings, immersive experiences, and  exciting giveaways, Marriott Bonvoy is thrilled to announce the grand prize winners for  each showcase. 

In Malaysia: 

▪ The "Wedding on Us" prize, covering MYR 150,000 for a dream wedding at any  participating Marriott Bonvoy hotel in Malaysia, will be awarded to Tiong Yuang  Kiat (Jack) and Melody Yong, who will celebrate their union at The Westin  Langkawi Resort & Spa. 

▪ The "Honeymoon on Us" prize, a luxurious 4D3N escape at The Ritz-Carlton,  Langkawi, complete with business-class flights, will be enjoyed by Benjamin Tay  Jay Han and Khong Jo Ann, who will get to exchange their vows at Element  Kuala Lumpur. 

▪ The "Points on Us" prize of 250,000 Marriott Bonvoy points, redeemable for  unforgettable stays and experiences, will be received by Aaron Chien Seong Kin and Yew Jie Ying, who will celebrate their love at The Majestic Kuala Lumpur. 

In Indonesia: 

▪ The "Wedding on Us" prize, covering up to IDR 500 million, will be awarded to  Stephen Santoso Djongianto and Edita Prawira, who will have the honor to say  "I Do" at The St. Regis Jakarta. 

▪ The "Honeymoon on Us" prize, a three-night stay at Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton  Reserve in Bali, including luxury amenities, will be experienced by Eddy Anggry and Jilly Tania, who will begin their new chapter in life at The Westin Jakarta. 

▪ The "Points on Us" prize of 250,000 Marriott Bonvoy points will be awarded to  Wahyudi Suyanto and Josephine Djulamsah, who will embrace their love story  at The St. Regis Jakarta. 

"Weddings by Marriott Bonvoy is more than just an event – it is a celebration of love's  most cherished moments. Our showcases in Indonesia and Malaysia brought together  couples, vendors, and our dedicated teams, creating an atmosphere where dreams truly  came to life," said Ramesh Jackson, Regional Vice President, Indonesia & Malaysia,  Marriott International. "We are honored to have been part of these incredible celebrations 

of new beginnings and remain committed to creating extraordinary wedding experiences  for every couple." 

Weddings by Marriott Bonvoy continues to inspire couples to begin their forever in the  most extraordinary settings. From a beachfront ceremony basking in the evening’s  afterglow in Bali, a serene garden celebration in Langkawi, or a grand ballroom affair in  Jakarta or Kuala Lumpur, Marriott Bonvoy’s extensive portfolio of exceptional venues and  personalized services ensures that every love story is celebrated with grace and utmost  care. 

To begin planning your once-in-a-lifetime wedding, follow Instagram  @mymarriottbonvoyweddings (Malaysia), and @weddingsindonesia (Indonesia). 

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Haier elevates standards for Malaysian households The brand debuts the L+ Washing Machine, an AI-powered washer dryer that ups the ante in  laundry hygiene and care at home 

1. The premium flagship L+ Washing Machine washes, dries and handles everything from soiled  children’s clothes and delicate fabrics to bulky curtains and duvets with just one touch, at  home 
2. The launch reinforces Haier Malaysia’s focus on expanding its high-end appliance portfolio,  with plans to introduce 10 new mid-to-high end products in the second half of 2025 as part of  its growth strategy 
3. The company’s total revenue grew by 20% in the first quarter of 2025 against the same period  in 2024 

Setting its sights on industry leadership, Haier Malaysia today  strengthened its premium home appliance portfolio with the introduction of the Haier L+  Washing Machine, an AI-powered washer dryer with heat pump technology. This flagship  model incorporates laundry AI Smart Wash technology in addition to precisely programmed  washing and drying. 

Haier Malaysia Managing Director Fan Jing said, “At the Haier Southeast Asia Conference in  December 2024, we unveiled our five-year strategic roadmap to solidify Haier Malaysia’s  position, with a mid-term target of attaining 17.4% market share in home appliances. Based  on our performance thus far, we are on track. For the first quarter of 2025, Haier Malaysia’s  total revenue grew by 20% against the same period last year. All our product categories  experienced encouraging growth, including our washing machine category which saw 21%  expansion in the first quarter of 2025.  

To continue powering our growth, we are focussing on high-end products that provide  convenience that meet today’s modern lifestyles. In line with this, we are excited to introduce  the Haier L+ Washing Machine, our top-of-the-range product that is ideal for discerning  consumers who appreciate a smart machine that effortlessly removes stains such as curry,  coffee, ink and blood on all kinds of fabric and attire. 

The Haier L+ Washing Machine leads our premium product launches for 2025. We will be  introducing another 10 new mid-to-high end products for the Malaysian market in the second  half of this year to cater to broader consumer needs. All these products are developed with  ‘More Creation, More Possibilities’ in mind to enhance everyday living through purposeful  innovation and refined craftsmanship. We will continue investing in research and development  to ensure our products keep pace with the evolving lifestyle.” 

Haier L+ Washing Machine – One & Done 

Designed for discerning customers who value quality over quantity, the Haier L+ Washing  Machine raises the bar for smart, sustainable laundry solutions through cutting-edge  innovation with intelligent features to deliver refined washing and drying in under one hour.

Built with AI Smart technology, the machine adapts convenience, enabling users to monitor  and manage laundry cycles remotely while the 607mm Super Drum Plus offers generous  washing space to accommodate larger loads, including curtains and duvets. 

The advanced AI Wash and Dry function takes laundry efficiency to the next level. It  automatically detects the weight of each load, adjusts water and, drying settings to optimise  resource use and minimise fuss for every wash. The machine also has the Smart Dosing  system that dispenses detergent, softener, and bleach in the precise amounts needed,  ensuring the best care for all kinds of fabrics and conditions. 

The machine comes equipped with 20 washing and 17 drying programmes, covering a wide  range of laundry needs. It has a specialised function to remove 26 different types of stains  ranging from fruit juices and soy sauce to ink and lipstick, tackling even the most stubborn of  spots from shirts and puffer jackets to sofa covers. 

In addition to being a washer, the Haier L+ Washing Machine incorporates drying technologies  to eliminate the need for separate machines.  

The Dual Engine Three Inverter System provides precise temperature control and fast drying  to deliver a perfect wash and dry for 12 shirts in just 59 minutes. It can alter its speed based  on how heavy the load is to save energy and prolong its lifespan. An extra-large multi-layer  filtration captures pet hair, dander, and dust, leaving clothes clean, fresh, and skin-friendly. 

In addition to these, it has UV, drying and fabric care sterilisation as well as mite removal for  improved hygiene and confidence. Its Ultra Reverse Technology reduces creases while  promoting even drying, with an independent inverter fan and motor to blow wind clockwise  and anticlockwise. 

Freshly laundered clothes that smell clean add a pleasant scent to the room. The Ultra Fresh  Air function keeps clothes fresh for up to 12 hours after washing and drying by circulating  ducted air through a large fan, ensuring garments stay fresh and minimising stress of forgetting  to take them out of after the wash. 

With their deep understanding of consumer wants, Haier also incorporated the I-Refresh  technology into the L+ Washing Machine, which helps care for items that cannot be washed  or dry-cleaned. I-Refresh utilises warm air and steam to remove unpleasant odours and is  particularly ideal for lightly soiled delicate garments. 

The ease of use is enhanced by the washer dryer’s 10.1” LCD Smart Screen, the largest on  the market to date, that allows users to seamlessly interact with its intuitive and responsive  control interface. When in operation, it is whisper-quiet, thanks to its Direct Motion Motor that  is exceptionally stable, long-lasting and energy efficient for reduced maintenance and  electricity bills. 

The Haier L+ Washing Machine is priced at RM16,599 and is available at all Haier Brand  Shops, authorised dealers and major retailers nationwide.

In conjunction with its launch, Haier Malaysia is running a time-limited promotion for the  L+ Washing Machine: 

1. From 22 to 25 May 2025, customers who purchase an L+ Washing Machine during the  roadshow period at Pavilion Bukit Jalil will be entitled to a special price of RM12,999  as well as up to RM2,000 Touch n’ Go eWallet credit rebate. 
2. From 26 May to 31 August 2025, Haier Malaysia is offering customers up to RM1,000  Touch n’ Go eWallet credit rebate at selected outlets. 

Details on why the Haier L+ Washing Machine is One & Done are available in the project book:

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Kossan Holdings Becomes the Strategic Investor in CARE Latex, Malaysia’s Leading Condom Brand  

Accelerating Global Expansion of a Homegrown Brand 

CARE Latex Sdn Bhd (“CARE Latex”), Malaysia’s leading  condom brand, has announced a strategic partnership with Kossan Holdings (M) Sdn Bhd  (“Kossan Holdings”), the investment arm of one of the world’s largest manufacturers of gloves and rubber product.. This partnership positions Kossan Holdings as CARE Latex’s third-largest investor,  strengthening the brand’s strategic foundation and supporting its long-term growth ambitions in the global  sexual wellness market. 

CARE Latex’s impressive growth trajectory — highlighted by a 1,399% increase in revenue and a 1,615%  surge in unit sales from 2018 to 2024 — underscores strong consumer trust and positions the brand as  a regional frontrunner and emerging global player. 

This strategic partnership with Kossan Holdings marks a pivotal milestone in CARE Latex’s pre-IPO  journey. It enhances CARE Latex’s ecosystem by accelerating product innovation, improving inventory  management, expanding research and development (“R&D”) capabilities, and broadening market reach  through new distribution channels. 

Beyond market expansion, the collaboration also aligns with CARE Latex’s commitment to public health,  particularly in addressing the urgent issue of HIV prevention among Southeast Asian youth. According to  UNAIDS 2023, one in four new HIV cases in the region involves individuals aged 15 to 24, with 93% linked to unprotected sex. In Malaysia, the Ministry of Health’s Global AIDS Monitoring Report 2024 indicates that 32% of new HIV infections occur in this age group, and yet condom usage remains below  40%. 

CARE Latex is building greater operational capacity and expanding access to trusted protection products  by harnessing advanced manufacturing and supply chain strengths — deepening its commitment to  preventing sexually transmitted diseases and promoting sex education. 

“Welcoming Kossan Holdings as a strategic investor enhances our capacity to scale production, drive  innovation, and deliver our mission. Together,  we are building a globally respected Malaysian brand that stands for quality, innovation, and social  responsibility,”  said Bonn Lam Chee Fong, Founder of CARE Latex.

Reflecting on CARE Latex’s origins, Bonn added, “Our journey started with a simple yet powerful insight  — if the world’s leading condom brands source their latex from Malaysia, why not build a world-class 

brand here at home? With Malaysia ranking as the sixth-largest producer of natural latex, we are  leveraging local strengths to accelerate the R&D pipeline, to launch innovations like Malaysia’s first  Microbial Barrier condom, designed with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties for enhanced  protection.” 

Lim Seow Chair, representative of Kossan Holdings, commented: “We are proud to support CARE Latex, a brand that shares our values of integrity, innovation, and sustainable impact. CARE Latex’s focus on sexual wellness, coupled with its inclusive, innovative and science-led approach, aligns  perfectly with our purpose-driven investment philosophy.” 

CARE Latex is the only Malaysian condom brand with a retail presence in both Singapore and South  Korea, distributed through major convenience store chains such as Olive Young, and GS25, which has  over 17,300 outlets. 

Future expansion markets include Singapore, Vietnam, Hong Kong, Macau, New Zealand, and the United  States. The company’s growth strategy remains anchored in broadening retail reach, advancing product  innovation, and exploring acquisitions of local brands. Multiple new product lines are in development to  support this continued growth, including clinical and personal lubricants, pregnancy and HIV test kits,  pleasure devices, and wellness supplements.

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TDA Drive to Digitalise Import & Export Documents through Industrial Collaboration Programme

The Technology Depository Agency Bhd (TDA) has upgraded the Malaysian Customs Import Export Document System (MyCIEDS), to an integrated digital system designed to enhance the management of import and export support documents for the Royal Malaysian Customs Department (JKDM).

The improvised system will be rolled out nationwide and is expected to play a key role in the digitalisation of customs services and strengthening the efficiency of Malaysia's trade border management.

TDA, an agency under the Ministry of Finance Malaysia, focuses to ensure comprehensive government's Industrial Collaboration Program (ICP) implementation in a more systematic, organised, and centralised manner.

The Import Export Support Document System (SDSIE), branded as MyCIEDS, is a revamped version of the earlier platform, redeveloped with the latest technology by Edaran IT Services Sdn Bhd, under the ICP. The system is built on Document Management System (DMS) technology and integrated with the Customs Information System (SMK).

According to its Chief Executive Officer Dr Sharoul Jambari, the success of this project demonstrates how ICP mechanisms can be strategically leveraged to support national agendas. “ICP not only fulfills procurement obligations but also acts as a catalyst for technology transfer, local expertise development, and long-term value creation for the country. Through this approach, we can ensure a lasting impact on the economy and the local industry ecosystem.

“The system is expected to benefit JKDM's operational zones nationwide and positively impact the smoothness of trade chains and the competitiveness of the national economy,” he said.

MyCIEDS is designed to modernise the digital management of import and export support documents, facilitate the monitoring, storage, and access for relevant documents by JKDM, support the government's agenda through local technology, and enhance customs operations to accelerate goods clearance.

TDA is committed to ensuring that every project under the ICP initiative adds real value to the country through the development of local technology capacity and sustainable economic spillover effects. To date, TDA has successfully implemented 142 ICP programmes under government procurement, strengthening Malaysia's strategic industrial sectors.

This initiative has enhanced Malaysia's global competitiveness, particularly in technology and innovation. The 657 ICP projects implemented under this programme have significantly impacted various economic aspects, including income growth, productivity improvement, value-added creation in products and services, GDP growth, and job market strengthening.

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BUILDING A LIFETIME, INHERITABLE INCOME
LAUNCH OF THE 3rd EDITION OF THE CONSUMERCHANT BOOK SERIES  BY PUBLIC GOLD GROUP

Public Gold Group, in collaboration with Galeri Ilmu Sdn. Bhd., has officially launched the third edition of the ConsuMerchant book series titled ‘Hadiah Persaraan Buat Umi’ (A Retirement Gift for Mum). The launch was officiated by the Founder and Executive Chairman of Public Gold Group, Dato’ Wira Louis Ng, together with the Chief Executive Officer of Galeri Ilmu, Haji Mohd Yusri Mohd Yusof, and Chief Editor and co-writer of the book, Haji Zakaria Sungib, at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur today. Also in attendance was Saiyidah Nafisah Binti Ismail, the next of kin of the late Abdur Rahman Al-Amin, whose story is the main inspiration behind the book.

This third edition of the ConsuMerchant series is published as a continuation of efforts to educate the public on the concept of lifetime, inheritable income through a revolutionary business model that combines consumer and entrepreneurial (merchant) elements.

Based on the true story of a young man who consistently generated passive income for his beloved parents through the Public Gold trading platform, the book focuses on long-term financial planning, residual income generation, and the creation of a sustainable economic legacy for families and future generations.

“This book is not just a story of personal success—it is a testament to the effectiveness of the ConsuMerchant model as a catalyst for financial freedom and meaningful legacy building, regardless of one’s background or health condition,” said Dato’ Wira Louis.

The book follows two earlier publications: ConsuMerchant: A Revolutionary Sharing Economy Business Model (2023) and ConsuMerchant: Kisah-kisah Kejayaan (2024).

All three editions, rooted in community financial education, aim to demonstrate how ordinary people can generate income through the ConsuMerchant concept, which is founded on trust and shared values. The latest edition is aligned with Public Gold’s mission to support long-term financial stability among Malaysians.

Launched in conjunction with the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair 2025 at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, ‘Hadiah Persaraan Buat Umi’ carries a heartfelt message of a child’s appreciation for parental love—and showcases how the unique ConsuMerchant concept enables one’s income to live on even after passing.

The third edition of the ConsuMerchant series is now available exclusively on www.pgmall.my, as well as at major bookstores nationwide.

All proceeds from the sale of this book will be channeled to the parents of the late Abdur Rahman as a token of gratitude for their sacrifices and love. This is in line with Public Gold’s mission to humanize wealth and instill the spirit of entrepreneurship in every individual.

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