2025 JAPAN PRIZE: TWO SCIENTISTS FROM USA AND SPAIN HAVE BEEN AWARDED

Award ceremony takes place in Tokyo in April


TOKYO, Jan 28 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) -- The Japan Prize Foundation announced the winners of the 2025 Japan prize at 1PM on 22 January, 2025. Prof. Russell Dean Dupuis (USA) has been awarded the Japan Prize in the fields of Materials Science and Production, and Prof. Carlos M. Duarte (Spain) has been awarded the Japan Prize in the fields of Biological Production, Ecology/Environment.

For this year’s Japan Prize, Prof. Dupuis is being recognized for his distinguished contributions to the Development of metalorganic chemical vapor deposition technology for compound semiconductor electronic and optoelectronic devices, and pioneering contribution to its large-scale commercialization; and Prof. Duarte is being recognized for his contribution to our understanding of marine ecosystems in a changing Earth, especially through pioneering research on Blue Carbon.

For the 2025 Japan Prize, the Foundation asked approximately 15,500 prominent scientists and engineers from around the world to nominate researchers working in this year’s fields. We received 149 nominations for the fields of Materials Science and Production, and 72 nominations for the fields of Biological Production, Ecology/Environment. This year’s winners were selected from a total of 221 nominees.

About the Japan Prize

The establishment of the Japan Prize in 1981 was motivated by the Japanese government's desire to create an internationally recognized award that would contribute to scientific and technological development around the world. With the support of numerous donations, the Japan Prize Foundation received endorsement from the Cabinet Office in 1983.

The Japan Prize is awarded to scientists and engineers from around the world, who have made creative and dramatic achievements that help progress their fields and contribute significantly to realizing peace and prosperity for all humanity. Researchers in all fields of science and technology are eligible for the award, with two fields selected each year in consideration of current trends in scientific and technological development. In principle, one individual in each field is recognized with the award, and receives a certificate, a medal, and a monetary prize. Each Award Ceremony is attended by the reigning Emperor and Empress, heads of the three branches of government and other related officials, and representatives from various other elements of society.

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Contact

The Japan Prize Public Relations Office
japanprize@ml.prap.co.jp

Source : The Japan Prize Foundation

FreedomPay, Mastercard Forge Alliance To Simplify Global Payments For Businesses

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 14 (Bernama) -- FreedomPay, a Next Level Commerce technology provider, has announced a strategic partnership with Mastercard to enhance global payment solutions for businesses.

In a statement, FreedomPay said this collaboration seeks to provide a unified, extended payment gateway that simplifies and broadens businesses' ability to connect with acquirers and accept a wider range of payment methods globally.

Leveraging FreedomPay’s established presence in North America, Europe, and Latin America, with Mastercard’s extensive global network, businesses will gain easier access to diverse payment systems and seamless processing transactions across borders.

FreedomPay President, Chris Kronenthal said this partnership empowered merchants with a single, unified platform to navigate the complexities of international commerce.

Meanwhile, Mastercard Executive Vice President for Enterprise Gateway Solutions, Kaushik Gopal emphasised the company’s dedication to providing businesses with the tools necessary for success in the global market, noting that this partnership simplifies cross-border transactions and unlocks new growth opportunities for its customers.

The strategic alliance offers access to over 230 acquirers and acceptance of numerous local and global payment methods; enhanced security through round-the-clock global tech support and payment card industry (PCI)-validated measures; and simplified integration for quicker global commerce setup.

Businesses will also benefit from value-added services such as personalised incentives, business intelligence, and advanced fraud prevention tools.

The partnership represents a significant leap in making international commerce more seamless, secure, and efficient, combining Mastercard’s cutting-edge payment technology with FreedomPay’s next-generation commerce solutions to create a better payment ecosystem.

As the premier choice for many of the largest companies across the globe, FreedomPay’s technology has been purposely built to deliver rock-solid performance in the highly complex environment of global commerce.

-- BERNAMA

VISTAJET CRAFTS UNFORGETTABLE LUNAR NEW YEAR FAMILY CELEBRATIONS AT 45,000 FEET

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 6 (Bernama) -- Lunar New Year offers a unique opportunity to connect with family while honouring tradition and new beginnings.

VistaJet, the global business aviation company, is offering its Members the chance to celebrate the Year of the Snake with three bespoke experiences designed to create lasting memories with loved ones.

“Our bespoke Lunar New Year offerings allow Members to unplug and reconnect with their loved ones, ensuring the season is truly memorable, celebrating Lunar New Year through a series of spectacular in-flight and post-flight novelties guaranteed to enchant," said its Chief Marketing Officer, Matteo Atti in a statement.

VistaJet makes Lunar New Year celebrations even more special with a festive meal in the sky. Partnering with Michelin-starred culinary partners, its Private Dining team presents a carefully crafted menu with regional delicacies, including Chinese Nian Gao, a sticky rice dish symbolising prosperity and success; Singaporean Lo Hei, a salad tossed for good fortune; and Korean Tteokguk, a comforting soup that signifies fresh starts.

The exclusive in-flight dining experience is designed with impeccable elegance, aided by VistaJet’s global network of 7,000 private chefs and Michelin-starred restaurants. The company’s collaboration with The Ritz-Carlton also brings authentic yum cha experiences, offering a selection of small plates paired with fragrant teas to enhance the gathering.

For an enriching post-flight experience, VistaJet Members can partake in an exclusive dim sum-making workshop at The Ritz-Carlton in Hong Kong or Shanghai. Dim sum, often formed in the shape of gold ingots, is considered a symbol of prosperity and abundance.

Guided by Michelin-starred chefs, the workshop teaches the secrets of traditional Cantonese cuisine, followed by a delightful lunch at the two Michelin-starred Tin Lung Heen in Hong Kong or Jin Xuan Chinese Restaurant in Shanghai.

Families can also enjoy customised Lunar New Year-themed entertainment onboard VistaJet’s Global 7500. On selected departures in Asia, Members can access a curated Game Box, featuring traditional games like Chinese Airplane Chess and Snakes and Ladders, designed for family fun without distractions.

VistaJet offers its Members unparalleled global connectivity, especially with the Global 7500, the largest and longest-range business jet, perfect for Lunar New Year reunion. The jet’s four distinct living spaces, including an entertainment room and a permanent stateroom, provide a luxurious and comfortable environment.

With a fleet of 18 Global 7500 aircraft, VistaJet is ready to help families celebrate Lunar New Year in style.

-- BERNAMA