London, June 17 2025— Fortress Investment Group has quietly assumed operational control of Therium Capital Management’s global litigation-funding portfolio, completing a discreet transfer executed on 11 June 2025 after months of deep restructuring at Therium.

The hand-off, which covers more than forty active disputes spanning Europe, Asia and North America, is the largest realignment the asset class has seen since the United Kingdom’s PACCAR decision tightened recoverability rules for funders last year. Fortress, an alternative-assets manager overseeing roughly US $70 billion and already exposed to some US $6.8 billion in legal assets, will now set budgets, determine strategy and authorise capital calls for every matter previously under Therium’s watch.

Practitioners predict an immediate cultural shift. Therium historically offered flexible, claimant-friendly drawdowns and tolerated longer timelines; Fortress operates on quarterly performance metrics, demands weekly reporting and applies strict risk-adjusted return hurdles. Claimants whose cases have drifted, or whose damages models have weakened, may be pressed to accept earlier settlements, post additional security or face funding withdrawal if revised forecasts fail to satisfy those hurdles.

Insiders also anticipate tougher document scrutiny. Fortress is expected to require comprehensive counsel memoranda, granular budgets broken into six-month tranches and rolling scenario analyses before it releases each slice of capital. Lawyers who miss new benchmarks risk payment delays, while co-funders may be asked to surrender a larger share of upside to compensate for heightened volatility.

The controversial US $14.92 billion claim brought by the heirs of the Sultanate of Sulu against Malaysia remains funded but “under review.” Observers believe Fortress will keep the asset on the books until a Spanish court rules on pending annulment proceedings, yet several sources caution that further adverse findings could trigger an exit clause embedded in the transfer agreement.

Stakeholders therefore have a narrow window to renegotiate terms before Fortress completes its baseline portfolio review in early July. Delays will likely prove costly for all parties.

Analysts view the takeover as part of a broader consolidation trend in which large credit houses seek to ring-fence litigation risk during an era of rising capital costs. Should Fortress succeed in streamlining the inherited book, peers such as Burford Capital and Omni Bridgeway may pursue similar bolt-on acquisitions to defend margins and reassure investors.

For claimants and law firms the message is clear: documentation must be airtight, timelines realistic and economic models defensible, because the era of lightly monitored, open-ended funding has ended.

Therium Capital Management quietly ceded control of its litigation portfolio to Fortress Investment Group on 11 June 2025, following layoffs and the formation of Therium Capital Advisors. 
Fortress—now overseeing more than US $6.8 billion in legal assets—has introduced granular spend audits, weekly reporting and strict risk-return hurdles shaped by the UK Supreme Court’s PACCAR ruling. 
Claimants, including those in the annulled US $14.92 billion Sulu arbitration, could face delays, early settlements or funding withdrawal, while investors brace for lengthened timelines and volatile secondary-market pricing.
Full article: https://knowsulu.ph/the-untold-sulu-story/inside-the-fortress-capital-control-and-the-quiet-collapse-of-therium London, June 17 2025— Fortress Investment Group has quietly assumed operational control of Therium Capital Management’s global litigation-funding portfolio, completing a discreet transfer executed on 11 June 2025 after months of deep restructuring at Therium.The hand-off, which covers more than forty active disputes spanning Europe, Asia and North America, is the largest realignment the asset class has seen since the United Kingdom’s PACCAR decision tightened recoverability rules for funders last year. Fortress, an alternative-assets manager overseeing roughly US $70 billion and already exposed to some US $6.8 billion in legal assets, will now set budgets, determine strategy and authorise capital calls for every matter previously under Therium’s watch.Practitioners predict an immediate cultural shift. Therium historically offered flexible, claimant-friendly drawdowns and tolerated longer timelines; Fortress operates on quarterly performance metrics, demands weekly reporting and applies strict risk-adjusted return hurdles. Claimants whose cases have drifted, or whose damages models have weakened, may be pressed to accept earlier settlements, post additional security or face funding withdrawal if revised forecasts fail to satisfy those hurdles.Insiders also anticipate tougher document scrutiny. Fortress is expected to require comprehensive counsel memoranda, granular budgets broken into six-month tranches and rolling scenario analyses before it releases each slice of capital. Lawyers who miss new benchmarks risk payment delays, while co-funders may be asked to surrender a larger share of upside to compensate for heightened volatility.The controversial US $14.92 billion claim brought by the heirs of the Sultanate of Sulu against Malaysia remains funded but “under review.” Observers believe Fortress will keep the asset on the books until a Spanish court rules on pending annulment proceedings, yet several sources caution that further adverse findings could trigger an exit clause embedded in the transfer agreement.Stakeholders therefore have a narrow window to renegotiate terms before Fortress completes its baseline portfolio review in early July. Delays will likely prove costly for all parties.Analysts view the takeover as part of a broader consolidation trend in which large credit houses seek to ring-fence litigation risk during an era of rising capital costs. Should Fortress succeed in streamlining the inherited book, peers such as Burford Capital and Omni Bridgeway may pursue similar bolt-on acquisitions to defend margins and reassure investors.For claimants and law firms the message is clear: documentation must be airtight, timelines realistic and economic models defensible, because the era of lightly monitored, open-ended funding has ended.Image Source: Fortress Investment Group

Think tank

Legal / Patent / Intellectual Property

International activity

Foreign companies

Therium Capital Management quietly ceded control of its litigation portfolio to Fortress Investment Group on 11 June 2025, following layoffs and the formation of Therium Capital Advisors. 
Fortress—now overseeing more than US $6.8 billion in legal assets—has introduced granular spend audits, weekly reporting and strict risk-return hurdles shaped by the UK Supreme Court’s PACCAR ruling. 
Claimants, including those in the annulled US $14.92 billion Sulu arbitration, could face delays, early settlements or funding withdrawal, while investors brace for lengthened timelines and volatile secondary-market pricing.
Full article: https://knowsulu.ph/the-untold-sulu-story/inside-the-fortress-capital-control-and-the-quiet-collapse-of-therium

Fortress Investment Group Takes Over Therium’s Litigation Portfolio in Major Industry Shake-Up

Omar Kiram and Fuad Kiram, pictured together in 2006.

Manila, Philippines — A new exposé uncovers one of Southeast Asia’s most audacious frauds: the fabricated monarchy and trillion-dollar deception orchestrated by Fuad Kiram and his late advisor Omar Kiram. Posing as royalty of the defunct Sulu Sultanate, the duo conducted a sprawling two-decade scam that blended fake titles, imaginary gold, and staged diplomacy to attract money, influence, and international attention.

Fuad Kiram, a self-declared Sultan discredited by legitimate heirs and listed as a terrorist by Malaysia, led an elaborate enterprise with Omar—a Filipino-Australian businessman who adopted the Kiram name to feign noble descent. Together, they sold fraudulent knighthoods and ambassadorships under the fictitious “Royal Hashemite Sultanate of Sulu and Sabah,” misled investors with tales of $3 trillion in hidden wartime gold, and staged pseudo-royal ceremonies across the globe.

Their exploits culminated in a controversial $14.92 billion international arbitration award against Malaysia over the historical Sabah lease—now under appeal and widely condemned as the pinnacle of their con. Legal experts warn that this legal maneuver, funded in part through questionable financial backers, represents a disturbing manipulation of the global justice system.

The victims? The Tausug people and the legacy of a historic sultanate now tarnished by deceit.

With the next arbitration hearing set for July 7, the report calls for urgent international scrutiny—and accountability. Omar Kiram and Fuad Kiram, pictured together in 2006.Image Source: Royal Sulu

Politics / Government / Local government

Manila, Philippines — A new exposé uncovers one of Southeast Asia’s most audacious frauds: the fabricated monarchy and trillion-dollar deception orchestrated by Fuad Kiram and his late advisor Omar Kiram. Posing as royalty of the defunct Sulu Sultanate, the duo conducted a sprawling two-decade scam that blended fake titles, imaginary gold, and staged diplomacy to attract money, influence, and international attention.

Fuad Kiram, a self-declared Sultan discredited by legitimate heirs and listed as a terrorist by Malaysia, led an elaborate enterprise with Omar—a Filipino-Australian businessman who adopted the Kiram name to feign noble descent. Together, they sold fraudulent knighthoods and ambassadorships under the fictitious “Royal Hashemite Sultanate of Sulu and Sabah,” misled investors with tales of $3 trillion in hidden wartime gold, and staged pseudo-royal ceremonies across the globe.

Their exploits culminated in a controversial $14.92 billion international arbitration award against Malaysia over the historical Sabah lease—now under appeal and widely condemned as the pinnacle of their con. Legal experts warn that this legal maneuver, funded in part through questionable financial backers, represents a disturbing manipulation of the global justice system.

The victims? The Tausug people and the legacy of a historic sultanate now tarnished by deceit.

With the next arbitration hearing set for July 7, the report calls for urgent international scrutiny—and accountability.

Sultanate of Sulu: How Fuad and Omar Kiram Sold Out a Nation That Wasn't Theirs

The international community is facing an evolving different threat to global peace and security. While the global security risk and threat in 2024 may be described as “unprecedented", 2025 may be described as “unconventional”. We see this in geopolitical tensions, gray zone warfare actions, AI arms race, rising insider threats, fragmented extremism and other developments. PROTECT 2025 conference on Doing Business Amidst New Threats will deep dive into these security challenges.

On March 14, 2025, the PROTECT International Conference Series on "Doing Business Amidst New Threats" will take place at the New World Makati Hotel. 

The event will feature prominent speakers, distinguished panelists, and thought leaders from various sectors as they discuss key issues affecting businesses today. From cyber threats and health security to climate change and cross-border crimes, the conference will address how these complex issues intersect and how businesses can navigate these volatile landscapes.

For more information on the forum, contact the Secretariat: leverage@leverageinternational.com

The Opening Address will be delivered by Secretary Eduardo Año, National Security Adviser to the National Security Council. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr. PA, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines will deliver the Keynote Address.

Digitalization And Cyber Threats will be featured in three panel discussions on Digital Identity, Cyber Threats, and The Legal Aspects of Cybercrime.

Digital technology has been changing the ways businesses are done and will continue to do so each year. Meantime, cyber threat actors are applying more advanced and sophisticated technologies to challenge cybersecurity. Understanding what is happening in the world now is therefore no longer an option but is an absolute necessity. The future is rapidly developing whether we like it or not. Adapting to change, if not done strategically can be disastrous. 

A Session on Human and Health Issues aims to provide an awareness of human health security and the interactions of key issues and events. Moderated by Dr. Kenneth Hartigan-Go, discussions will cross cut through health, education, and security.

Environmental/Climate Issues will be the subject of one session. The changing environment affects the business world. They impact on business practices from resources, to supply chain, to logistics, to energy sources, to customer behavior and demographics.

Cross-border phenomena concern both international and domestic security. Heightened concerns about transnational crimes are a consequence of advances in transportation and telecommunication. Many times, businesses become instruments or victims of such crimes.

A session on Transnational Issues will start with a presentation on Crime- Terror Nexus by Global Security Expert Prof. Rohan Gunaratna of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. This will be followed by a Panel Discussion on cross-border phenomena.

The National Issues session will discuss two major security challenges confronting the Philippines today: state-sponsored cyber challenges and the country's relations with the US and China.

On March 14, 2025, the PROTECT International Conference Series on "Doing Business Amidst New Threats" will take place at the New World Makati Hotel. <img style="width: 100%;" src="https://imagedelivery.net/H6_s_Eb_ylTWnSEV3HlmYQ/0b523cf6-8717-4604-982f-db7972ed8800/public" alt="Image" />The international community is facing an evolving different threat to global peace and security. While the global security risk and threat in 2024 may be described as “unprecedented", 2025 may be described as “unconventional”. We see this in geopolitical tensions, gray zone warfare actions, AI arms race, rising insider threats, fragmented extremism and other developments. PROTECT 2025 conference on Doing Business Amidst New Threats will deep dive into these security challenges.On March 14, 2025, the PROTECT International Conference Series on "Doing Business Amidst New Threats" will take place at the New World Makati Hotel. The event will feature prominent speakers, distinguished panelists, and thought leaders from various sectors as they discuss key issues affecting businesses today. From cyber threats and health security to climate change and cross-border crimes, the conference will address how these complex issues intersect and how businesses can navigate these volatile landscapes.For more information on the forum, contact the Secretariat: leverage@leverageinternational.comThe Opening Address will be delivered by Secretary Eduardo Año, National Security Adviser to the National Security Council. Gen. Romeo S. Brawner, Jr. PA, Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces of the Philippines will deliver the Keynote Address.Digitalization And Cyber Threats will be featured in three panel discussions on Digital Identity, Cyber Threats, and The Legal Aspects of Cybercrime.Digital technology has been changing the ways businesses are done and will continue to do so each year. Meantime, cyber threat actors are applying more advanced and sophisticated technologies to challenge cybersecurity. Understanding what is happening in the world now is therefore no longer an option but is an absolute necessity. The future is rapidly developing whether we like it or not. Adapting to change, if not done strategically can be disastrous. A Session on Human and Health Issues aims to provide an awareness of human health security and the interactions of key issues and events. Moderated by Dr. Kenneth Hartigan-Go, discussions will cross cut through health, education, and security. Environmental/Climate Issues will be the subject of one session. The changing environment affects the business world. They impact on business practices from resources, to supply chain, to logistics, to energy sources, to customer behavior and demographics.Cross-border phenomena concern both international and domestic security. Heightened concerns about transnational crimes are a consequence of advances in transportation and telecommunication. Many times, businesses become instruments or victims of such crimes.A session on Transnational Issues will start with a presentation on Crime- Terror Nexus by Global Security Expert Prof. Rohan Gunaratna of the S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies, Nanyang Technological University, Singapore. This will be followed by a Panel Discussion on cross-border phenomena.The National Issues session will discuss two major security challenges confronting the Philippines today: state-sponsored cyber challenges and the country's relations with the US and China.

Security

STEM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Math)

Event

Government offices / organizations

PROTECT 2025: Doing Business Amidst New Threats 

The Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris of ERIA, in collaboration with Thant Myanmar, is hosting a webinar titled "Myanmar’s Bottom-Up Circular Economy: Challenges and Opportunities in REUSE and REPAIR." This event will showcase Myanmar’s unique approach to circular economy practices, particularly in reducing plastic consumption through reuse and repair systems.&nbsp;

This webinar will explore how the country’s economy functions with minimal plastic consumption and how these practices can inform circular economy strategies across ASEAN. Industry leaders and experts will share insights into innovative approaches to reuse, and repair models within consumer goods, cosmetics, and sustainable business practices. Register now to be part of the discussion!&nbsp;

Time: 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM (Myanmar Time) / 10:30 AM - 13:00 PM (Jakarta Time)&nbsp;

Registration: <a href="http://bit.ly/PSPMyanmar" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/PSPMyanmar</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Insights into Myanmar’s bottom-up circular economy, highlighting low plastic consumption models.&nbsp;

Case studies on reuse and repair initiatives from leading private sector actors, including sustainable beauty, consumer goods, and food industries.&nbsp;

Research findings on consumer behaviours and barriers to circular business models in Myanmar.&nbsp;

Interactive Q&amp;A session with experts and business innovators.&nbsp;

Yee Yee Mon, Venus Skin Lux: Piloting Refill as a substitute for sachets.&nbsp;

Nilar Tun, Independent Consultant: Research on consumer goods reuse and repair.&nbsp;

Ngwe Tun, Genius Coffee: Challenges and opportunities in loose and reusable packaging in the food industry.&nbsp;

Moderator: Friedor Jeske, Programme Director, Thant Myanmar.&nbsp;

The event will be conducted in English, with simultaneous translation into Burmese, and e-certificates of attendance will be provided.&nbsp;

Don’t miss this opportunity to explore Myanmar’s innovative approaches to the circular economy. Register now and be part of the conversation!&nbsp;

Date: 5 March 2025 
Time: 10:30 AM - 13:00 PM Jakarta Time 
Registration: bit.ly/PSPMyanmar The Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris of ERIA, in collaboration with Thant Myanmar, is hosting a webinar titled "Myanmar’s Bottom-Up Circular Economy: Challenges and Opportunities in REUSE and REPAIR." This event will showcase Myanmar’s unique approach to circular economy practices, particularly in reducing plastic consumption through reuse and repair systems.&nbsp;This webinar will explore how the country’s economy functions with minimal plastic consumption and how these practices can inform circular economy strategies across ASEAN. Industry leaders and experts will share insights into innovative approaches to reuse, and repair models within consumer goods, cosmetics, and sustainable business practices. Register now to be part of the discussion!&nbsp;Save the Date&nbsp;Date: 5 March 2025&nbsp;Time: 10:00 AM - 12:30 PM (Myanmar Time) / 10:30 AM - 13:00 PM (Jakarta Time)&nbsp;Platform: Zoom&nbsp;Registration: <a href="http://bit.ly/PSPMyanmar" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/PSPMyanmar</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;What to Expect&nbsp;Insights into Myanmar’s bottom-up circular economy, highlighting low plastic consumption models.&nbsp;Case studies on reuse and repair initiatives from leading private sector actors, including sustainable beauty, consumer goods, and food industries.&nbsp;Research findings on consumer behaviours and barriers to circular business models in Myanmar.&nbsp;Interactive Q&amp;A session with experts and business innovators.&nbsp;Speakers Include:&nbsp;Yee Yee Mon, Venus Skin Lux: Piloting Refill as a substitute for sachets.&nbsp;Nilar Tun, Independent Consultant: Research on consumer goods reuse and repair.&nbsp;Ngwe Tun, Genius Coffee: Challenges and opportunities in loose and reusable packaging in the food industry.&nbsp;Moderator: Friedor Jeske, Programme Director, Thant Myanmar.&nbsp;The event will be conducted in English, with simultaneous translation into Burmese, and e-certificates of attendance will be provided.&nbsp;Don’t miss this opportunity to explore Myanmar’s innovative approaches to the circular economy. Register now and be part of the conversation!&nbsp;

Skin care / Cosmetics / Hair products

Environment / SGDs / Recycling

Local companies

Startups

Date: 5 March 2025 
Time: 10:30 AM - 13:00 PM Jakarta Time 
Registration: bit.ly/PSPMyanmar 

Webinar Registration Open: “Myanmar’s Bottom-Up Circular Economy: Challenges and Opportunities in REUSE and REPAIR”

ERIA’s
Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris, in collaboration with
Brunei Darussalam’s Department of Environment, Parks and
Recreation and the GIZ, explored Brunei's strategies to tackle plastic
pollution and the private sector's role in championing plastic circularity.

Titled
"Private Sector Initiatives to Reduce Marine Plastics: Brunei's Journey to
Plastic Sustainability: Hands-on Initiatives in Action," the event, organised
as part of Brunei Darussalam’s World Environment Day event series, brought
together professionals from the public and private sectors, along with civil
society, to explore innovative solutions and best practices in addressing
plastic pollution. Over 108 attendees from the ASEAN region and beyond took
part in the event, actively participating in the Q&amp;A session.

The
seminar began with the Director of the Regional Knowledge Centre, Mr Reo Kawamura emphasising the critical importance of
collaboration between governments, private companies, and academia to address
the global plastic pollution challenge and achieve peaceful coexistence with the natural environment. Ms Hajah Martinah Haji Tamit,
Director of Brunei Darussalam's Department of Environment, Parks and
Recreation, outlined the challenges of plastic waste management and reaffirmed
Brunei's commitment to tackling plastic pollution alongside other ASEAN member
states. She also highlighted Brunei's active involvement in United Nations
negotiations to develop a global treaty on plastic pollution. Mr Phong Giang,
Advisor for GIZ 3RproMar and AMUSE programmes in ASEAN, detailed GIZ's initiatives across
ASEAN countries, which include supporting government regulations, promoting
circular economy solutions, and engaging with the private sector on upcoming
global plastic treaties.

Mr
Michikazu Kojima, Senior Research Fellow on Environmental Issues at ERIA,
highlighted Asia's plastic pollution crisis and underscored the need for a life
cycle approach. He emphasised the private sector's role in developing
sustainable materials, designing reusable products, and improving waste
management systems. Mr Mims Sidi from Tebalik Plastik shared their goals to close the loop of plastics, by transforming plastic
waste into sustainable products, supporting a circular economy and aligning
with regional and global sustainability objectives. Ms Trish Lai of Kaimana
Brunei discussed the challenges of the refill business which
can contribute to reduction of packaging waste, for example, high
consumer spending abroad, a small local market, expensive shipping, lack of
manufacturing capacity, and the necessity of focusing on niche products with
anchor points. Ms Wendy Han from Precious Plastic Brunei highlighted
initiatives aimed at raising awareness and mobilising local communities against
plastic waste. She also showed how local communities can create a
plastic recycling facility on their own. Prof Scott Valentine provided insights into
how the lack of perceived value in plastic waste is a root cause and proposed
economic solutions like deposit schemes and plastic bag surcharges to
incentivise responsible plastic use and recycling. He also responded to a participant’s question as to
how to tackle the overwhelming plastic waste issue, by encouraging citizens to
support businesses like Tebalik Plastik, Kaimana, or Precious Plastic, and start contributing in a small way.

This seminar highlights the continuous involvement of
ERIA’s Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris in tackling the
intricate challenges linked to marine plastic debris. By encouraging
collaboration and advancing innovative approaches, the Centre remains dedicated
to assisting and showcasing companies and organisations actively addressing
marine debris issues

ERIA
(Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia)

ERIA is an international organization established
in Jakarta, Indonesia in 2008 by a formal agreement among Leaders of 16
countries in the East Asian region to conduct research activities and make
policy recommendations for further economic integration in the East Asia. 

Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation

The formation of the Department of Environment,
Parks and Recreation under the Ministry of Development took effect in 2002.
Currently, the department handles matters pertaining to Waste Management,
Environmental Conservation and Management, Management of Landscape and
Recreational Areas and also Environmental Cooperation at National, Bilateral
and International level.

The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale
Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH or GIZ is the main German Government development
agency with headquarter in Bonn and Eschborn and provides services in the field
of international development cooperation and international education work. The
main commissioning party is Germany's Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation
and Development (BMZ)

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle to Protect the Marine
Environment and Coral Reefs (3RproMar) is a GIZ project (2020-2025) is an
ASEAN-German cooperation project implemented by GIZ in coordination with the
ASEAN Secretariat. 

ASEAN Municipal Solid Waste Management
Enhancement (AMUSE) is implemented by GIZ (2022 -2025), having its objective to
improve environmental quality in small and medium-sized cities in the ASEAN
region by optimising waste disposal and recycling. 

ERIA’s Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris, in collaboration with Brunei’s Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation and GIZ, Hosts Event Exploring Brunei's Plastic Pollution Strategies and the Private Sector's Role in Championing Plastic Circularity, organised as part of Brunei Darussalam’s World Environment Day event series. ERIA’s
Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris, in collaboration with
Brunei Darussalam’s Department of Environment, Parks and
Recreation and the GIZ, explored Brunei's strategies to tackle plastic
pollution and the private sector's role in championing plastic circularity.Titled
"Private Sector Initiatives to Reduce Marine Plastics: Brunei's Journey to
Plastic Sustainability: Hands-on Initiatives in Action," the event, organised
as part of Brunei Darussalam’s World Environment Day event series, brought
together professionals from the public and private sectors, along with civil
society, to explore innovative solutions and best practices in addressing
plastic pollution. Over 108 attendees from the ASEAN region and beyond took
part in the event, actively participating in the Q&amp;A session.The
seminar began with the Director of the Regional Knowledge Centre, Mr Reo Kawamura emphasising the critical importance of
collaboration between governments, private companies, and academia to address
the global plastic pollution challenge and achieve peaceful coexistence with the natural environment. Ms Hajah Martinah Haji Tamit,
Director of Brunei Darussalam's Department of Environment, Parks and
Recreation, outlined the challenges of plastic waste management and reaffirmed
Brunei's commitment to tackling plastic pollution alongside other ASEAN member
states. She also highlighted Brunei's active involvement in United Nations
negotiations to develop a global treaty on plastic pollution. Mr Phong Giang,
Advisor for GIZ 3RproMar and AMUSE programmes in ASEAN, detailed GIZ's initiatives across
ASEAN countries, which include supporting government regulations, promoting
circular economy solutions, and engaging with the private sector on upcoming
global plastic treaties.Mr
Michikazu Kojima, Senior Research Fellow on Environmental Issues at ERIA,
highlighted Asia's plastic pollution crisis and underscored the need for a life
cycle approach. He emphasised the private sector's role in developing
sustainable materials, designing reusable products, and improving waste
management systems. Mr Mims Sidi from Tebalik Plastik shared their goals to close the loop of plastics, by transforming plastic
waste into sustainable products, supporting a circular economy and aligning
with regional and global sustainability objectives. Ms Trish Lai of Kaimana
Brunei discussed the challenges of the refill business which
can contribute to reduction of packaging waste, for example, high
consumer spending abroad, a small local market, expensive shipping, lack of
manufacturing capacity, and the necessity of focusing on niche products with
anchor points. Ms Wendy Han from Precious Plastic Brunei highlighted
initiatives aimed at raising awareness and mobilising local communities against
plastic waste. She also showed how local communities can create a
plastic recycling facility on their own. Prof Scott Valentine provided insights into
how the lack of perceived value in plastic waste is a root cause and proposed
economic solutions like deposit schemes and plastic bag surcharges to
incentivise responsible plastic use and recycling. He also responded to a participant’s question as to
how to tackle the overwhelming plastic waste issue, by encouraging citizens to
support businesses like Tebalik Plastik, Kaimana, or Precious Plastic, and start contributing in a small way.This seminar highlights the continuous involvement of
ERIA’s Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris in tackling the
intricate challenges linked to marine plastic debris. By encouraging
collaboration and advancing innovative approaches, the Centre remains dedicated
to assisting and showcasing companies and organisations actively addressing
marine debris issuesList of AbbreviationsERIA
(Economic Research Institute for ASEAN and East Asia)ERIA is an international organization established
in Jakarta, Indonesia in 2008 by a formal agreement among Leaders of 16
countries in the East Asian region to conduct research activities and make
policy recommendations for further economic integration in the East Asia. Department of Environment, Parks and RecreationThe formation of the Department of Environment,
Parks and Recreation under the Ministry of Development took effect in 2002.
Currently, the department handles matters pertaining to Waste Management,
Environmental Conservation and Management, Management of Landscape and
Recreational Areas and also Environmental Cooperation at National, Bilateral
and International level.GIZ The Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale
Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH or GIZ is the main German Government development
agency with headquarter in Bonn and Eschborn and provides services in the field
of international development cooperation and international education work. The
main commissioning party is Germany's Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation
and Development (BMZ)GIZ 3RproMar ProgrammeReduce, Reuse, Recycle to Protect the Marine
Environment and Coral Reefs (3RproMar) is a GIZ project (2020-2025) is an
ASEAN-German cooperation project implemented by GIZ in coordination with the
ASEAN Secretariat. GIZ AMUSEASEAN Municipal Solid Waste Management
Enhancement (AMUSE) is implemented by GIZ (2022 -2025), having its objective to
improve environmental quality in small and medium-sized cities in the ASEAN
region by optimising waste disposal and recycling.

Green technology

ERIA’s Regional Knowledge Centre for Marine Plastic Debris, in collaboration with Brunei’s Department of Environment, Parks and Recreation and GIZ, Hosts Event Exploring Brunei's Plastic Pollution Strategies and the Private Sector's Role in Championing Plastic Circularity, organised as part of Brunei Darussalam’s World Environment Day event series.

Brunei's Strategies for Plastic Sustainability explored in a seminar organised as part of Brunei Darussalam’s World Environment Day event series

Quezon City, Philippines – The Philippine Pastafarian Church took center stage as various secular organizations in the Philippines convened for the #PhilippineSecularSummit2024, held under the banner of secularism and for the people. The summit served as a platform to address critical issues pertaining to secularism, freethinking, and humanism.

This year's event was a collaborative effort, with the Philippine Pastafarian Church playing a leading role alongside the following organizations:

- Humanist Alliance Philippines, International (HAPI)

- Philippine Atheism, Agnosticism, and Secularism Inc.

- Secular Filipinos for Better Governance

The keynote address was delivered by Atty. Luke Espiritu, a prominent labor leader and a staunch advocate for a better, secular Philippines.

The summit aimed to foster open discussions on the importance of secularism in the Philippines and its role in promoting a just and equitable society. Attendees engaged in thought-provoking discussions on various topics, including:

The #PhilippineSecularSummit2024 marks a significant event for the growing secular movement in the Philippines. It provided a platform for secular organizations to come together, share ideas, and strategize ways to promote secularism in the country.

Quezon City, Philippines – The Philippine Pastafarian Church took center stage as various secular organizations in the Philippines convened for the #PhilippineSecularSummit2024, held under the banner of secularism and for the people. The summit served as a platform to address critical issues pertaining to secularism, freethinking, and humanism.<img style="width: 100%;" src="https://vritimes-public.s3.ap-southeast-1.amazonaws.com/production/820588c1ba1701da59b276b11f501f720ec4ccd18bd99f993dbe8fd2e5bb4acf/428600377_708953134767366_5496136056283491264_n.jpg" alt="Representatives of major secular organizations in the Philippines" />This year's event was a collaborative effort, with the Philippine Pastafarian Church playing a leading role alongside the following organizations:- Humanist Alliance Philippines, International (HAPI)- Philippine Atheism, Agnosticism, and Secularism Inc.- Secular Filipinos for Better Governance- Filipino FreethinkersThe keynote address was delivered by Atty. Luke Espiritu, a prominent labor leader and a staunch advocate for a better, secular Philippines.The summit aimed to foster open discussions on the importance of secularism in the Philippines and its role in promoting a just and equitable society. Attendees engaged in thought-provoking discussions on various topics, including:- The role of secularism in a democracy- The separation of church and state- Freethought and critical thinking- Human rights and social justice- Mental healthThe #PhilippineSecularSummit2024 marks a significant event for the growing secular movement in the Philippines. It provided a platform for secular organizations to come together, share ideas, and strategize ways to promote secularism in the country.

Foundations / Associations

Campaign

Philippine Secular Organizations Convene for Philippine Secular Summit 2024

Almost 40% of the annual CO2 emissions comes from the building and construction world and, out of this, 70% comes from building operations.

As an architect, I worked for the past 18 years designing projects across the globe and very rarely I have encountered sustainable buildings that pursue sustainability beyond the building itself. I mean, you can have a theoretically net-zero building, but if the community that uses it doesn’t have a sustainable approach to living, part of your efforts as designer and builder will be wasted.

In 2007, in my early days as an architect, I visited the BedZed in the UK, one of the first and most successful sustainable communities ever developed. BedZed, acronym for Beddington - its location - and Zero Emission Development, is a residential project in the British countryside, not too far from London. I went there riding my Vespa with no GPS and surprisingly it took me quite some time to find it, as the site was not advertised despite its famous pioneeristic approach. Upon entering the development, I noticed how much the architecture of BedZed was inspired by its sustainable approach: wind chimneys to promote natural ventilation, PV panels, green roofs, big windows (that compromised privacy a bit), sustainable materials and appliances. While sneaking around the private development, I was lucky enough to be invited by James, one of the residents, to visit the inside of his unit. James was a BedZed enthusiast. He proudly showed me his planters full of vegetables that he cultivated together with his next door neighbors. James explained to me that the BedZed community had a direct and effective sustainable approach to its daily life. For example, the use of cars was highly discouraged among residents, and James was riding his bicycle to London. Each house displayed a clear metering system to help residents monitor their utilities. Residents could benchmark their own consumption against the rest of the community, and no one wanted to be the one consuming the most. James told me that this benchmarking approach was particularly effective as he really felt the pressure to be among the “good residents” and was also a good reason to compete and have fun in BedZed. When it came the time to leave BedZed and James saw me on my Vespa, he scolded me, saying that next time I should have used public transport, because the bus stop is just conveniently right next to BedZed.

Since we started Woke Coliving in 2018, we set our goals to play a role within the SDGs framework, to impact the environment and to help the local communities to improve their living standards. By managing coliving communities, we really have the opportunity to bring sustainability up from the building to the community level. Our locations and proximity to the CBDs (Central Business Districts) promote walk-to-office culture and reduce the dependency from vehicular transportation. This directly reduces the individual's carbon footprint. Our newly built project in Mandaluyong was designed to maximize natural light and ventilation in all living areas, thus reducing dependency from the energy providers that, similarly to BedZed, are metered individually and are paid per use. Finally, moving from a sustainable approach to a design perspective, in the end I am still an architect, our building almost triples the occupancy of a traditional residential building, reducing the square meter per person from 24 to 8. Less buildings, more room for green and public spaces.&nbsp;

Coliving delivers tangible benefits to the people and the way they live, work and play. As operators and community managers, we have the responsibility to create awareness about wellness and influence sustainable living. Stepping forward with simple choices and small sacrifices creates a positive impact on our lives and the world we live in.&nbsp;

Since we started Woke Coliving in 2018, we set our goals to play a role within the SDGs framework, to impact the environment and to help the local communities to improve their living standards. By managing coliving communities, we really have the opportunity to bring sustainability up from the building to the community level. Almost 40% of the annual CO2 emissions comes from the building and construction world and, out of this, 70% comes from building operations.As an architect, I worked for the past 18 years designing projects across the globe and very rarely I have encountered sustainable buildings that pursue sustainability beyond the building itself. I mean, you can have a theoretically net-zero building, but if the community that uses it doesn’t have a sustainable approach to living, part of your efforts as designer and builder will be wasted.In 2007, in my early days as an architect, I visited the BedZed in the UK, one of the first and most successful sustainable communities ever developed. BedZed, acronym for Beddington - its location - and Zero Emission Development, is a residential project in the British countryside, not too far from London. I went there riding my Vespa with no GPS and surprisingly it took me quite some time to find it, as the site was not advertised despite its famous pioneeristic approach. Upon entering the development, I noticed how much the architecture of BedZed was inspired by its sustainable approach: wind chimneys to promote natural ventilation, PV panels, green roofs, big windows (that compromised privacy a bit), sustainable materials and appliances. While sneaking around the private development, I was lucky enough to be invited by James, one of the residents, to visit the inside of his unit. James was a BedZed enthusiast. He proudly showed me his planters full of vegetables that he cultivated together with his next door neighbors. James explained to me that the BedZed community had a direct and effective sustainable approach to its daily life. For example, the use of cars was highly discouraged among residents, and James was riding his bicycle to London. Each house displayed a clear metering system to help residents monitor their utilities. Residents could benchmark their own consumption against the rest of the community, and no one wanted to be the one consuming the most. James told me that this benchmarking approach was particularly effective as he really felt the pressure to be among the “good residents” and was also a good reason to compete and have fun in BedZed. When it came the time to leave BedZed and James saw me on my Vespa, he scolded me, saying that next time I should have used public transport, because the bus stop is just conveniently right next to BedZed.Since we started Woke Coliving in 2018, we set our goals to play a role within the SDGs framework, to impact the environment and to help the local communities to improve their living standards. By managing coliving communities, we really have the opportunity to bring sustainability up from the building to the community level. Our locations and proximity to the CBDs (Central Business Districts) promote walk-to-office culture and reduce the dependency from vehicular transportation. This directly reduces the individual's carbon footprint. Our newly built project in Mandaluyong was designed to maximize natural light and ventilation in all living areas, thus reducing dependency from the energy providers that, similarly to BedZed, are metered individually and are paid per use. Finally, moving from a sustainable approach to a design perspective, in the end I am still an architect, our building almost triples the occupancy of a traditional residential building, reducing the square meter per person from 24 to 8. Less buildings, more room for green and public spaces.&nbsp;Coliving delivers tangible benefits to the people and the way they live, work and play. As operators and community managers, we have the responsibility to create awareness about wellness and influence sustainable living. Stepping forward with simple choices and small sacrifices creates a positive impact on our lives and the world we live in.&nbsp;

Residential / Condominium

Architecture / Space design

Real Estate / Architecture / Construction

Since we started Woke Coliving in 2018, we set our goals to play a role within the SDGs framework, to impact the environment and to help the local communities to improve their living standards. By managing coliving communities, we really have the opportunity to bring sustainability up from the building to the community level. 