Slovenia Times

Where Ancient Ritual Meets Runway: Sanyuesan Festival Gets Modern Makeover in Wuzhishan

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 16:24:39 +0200

WUZHISHAN, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - From April 15 to 19, a series of events at the Wuzhishan sub-venue of Hainan's Sanyuesan festival took place in full swing, spreading rich ethnic vibes to every corner of the city and drawing passersby - both local residents and tourists - to stop, watch, and take photos.

Sanyuesan Festival Gets Modern Makeover in Wuzhishan

Alex, a visitor ventured to China's southernmost province primarily for its renowned black tea. What he did not anticipate was taking a front-row seat at a breathtaking fashion show staged on water.

"This unique stage has allowed me to capture some wonderful images," said Alex, who happened to be in Wuzhishan during the Sanyuesan Festival. "I originally came here simply as a fan of Wuzhishan's black tea, but now I find myself deeply fascinated by the culture of Wuzhishan as well."

The "unique stage" he refers to is the immersive water-based performance space created for the 2026 Sanyuesan Festival, featuring the "Miss Li · Hainan Sanyuesan Water Village Show." This innovative platform, with water as its runway and the rainforest as its backdrop, presents the Sanyuesan, a traditional celebration of the Li and Miao ethnic groups with thousands of years of history, through a contemporary lens, appealing to both local and international audiences.

This year's activities in Wuzhishan embraced a dynamic model that intertwines rainforest ecology, intangible cultural heritage, fashion, technology, and tourism. Attendees were treated to a festival experience that was engaging, immersive, and visually stunning. Drones illuminated the night sky, tracing ancient Li totems, like the "Gan'gong Bird," while diverse performances including intangible cultural heritage shows, original dance dramas, and live performances captivated the audience. A 600-seat long buffet table was set up along the water, where visitors savored authentic local flavors, such as sour fish soup and three-color sticky rice, amid the lively atmosphere.

The Sanyuesan Festival is memorable not only for its visual appeal but also for its interactive nature. In 2025, the event in Wuzhishan received 175,000 visitors and generated 110 million yuan (approximately 15.1 million US dollars) in consumption. This year, Wuzhishan introduced five premium tourist routes, converting ecological resources - including millennium-old tree fern groves, tropical rainforest tea gardens, and Yahu Terraces - into tourism products.

"Previously, folk culture felt distant," said Shan Lijun, a tourist from northeast China's Heilongjiang Province. "But now, in Wuzhishan, I can sip tea, watch a village show, and dance with the locals- it all feels very 'cool.'"

Additionally, the festival is witnessing the evolution of local intangible cultural heritage industries. A Li brocade fashion and cultural creative design competition showcased innovative garments and creative works, merging traditional craftsmanship with contemporary fashion. This heritage item, once listed on UNESCO's List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of Urgent Safeguarding, has now, through the concerted efforts of many, been transferred to the Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, and is reaching broader markets through collaborations with international designers.

Hashtag: #Sanyuesan

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

OPPO Opens Entries for OPPO Photography Awards 2026, Introducing New "Super Video" Category and Programs Supporting Young Creators

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 15:04:29 +0200

SHENZHEN, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - OPPO officially announced the launch of the OPPO Photography Awards 2026 today, marking the return of the annual competition that provides a global stage for mobile photographers to showcase diverse perspectives through visual storytelling.

OPPO Photography Awards 2026 Key Visual, featuring original photography by Hasselblad Master Tina Signesdottir Hult, shot on OPPO Find X9 Ultra.

Building on last year's theme "Super Every Moment", this year's edition introduces a brand-new Super Video category alongside expanded support programs offering creators more visibility and professional support. This year's competition also includes a total prize pool of $76,500 distributed across the various prize categories.

"Over the past four years, the OPPO Photography Awards has evolved into a truly global platform that empowers mobile creators everywhere to express their inspiration effortlessly through OPPO's powerful imaging capabilities," said Ling Liu, Overseas CMO at OPPO. "Championing young creators has always been central to the Awards, and this year, we are taking this further by creating more opportunities for the next generation to be seen, supported, and recognized. Smartphone users have always embraced video as a powerful tool for mobile storytelling, and through our advanced imaging technologies and long-term partnership with Hasselblad, we hope to empower more creators worldwide to tell rich and authentic stories with their mobile devices."

New Categories Celebrate New Possibilities in Mobile Imaging

The OPPO Photography Awards 2026 introduces two new categories-Super Video and Super Zoom-as part of an updated six-category lineup that also includes Journey, Me, Live, and Snap.

Six categories, including the new Super Video and Super Zoom.

Marking the first dedicated video category in OPPO Photography Awards history, the Super Video category aims to highlight the growing influence of video alongside photography as a distinct medium for mobile storytelling. With life's meaningful moments taking place not only in static frames but the dynamic motion and emotions that unfold between them, OPPO is empowering storytellers from all walks of life to capture this motion through the latest innovations in mobile videography. Building on its longstanding focus on video, OPPO continues to deliver industry-leading capabilities across its product portfolio, enabling both enthusiasts and professionals to fully embrace the fun of creation.

Beyond offering cutting-edge technology, OPPO is equally committed to enhancing how these creations are shared. OPPO and Meta are closely collaborating to optimize the video-sharing experience on Instagram. OPPO Find X9 Ultra users can now achieve near-lossless video quality from capture to share. Videos shared on Instagram will retain quality virtually indistinguishable from the original footage, achieving the industry's highest standards and ensuring that every shared moment remains true to the original creation. This reflects OPPO's continued focus on optimizing the entire creative lifecycle for a truly seamless user experience.

This year's other new category, Super Zoom, seeks to explore the creative potential made possible through OPPO's long-term investment in advanced telescope zoom technology. By pushing the boundaries of mobile imaging, OPPO has brought smartphone zoom capabilities closer than ever to those of traditional standalone cameras, allowing users to capture unseen details with precision and explore life's hidden beauty from completely new perspectives.

Committed to Supporting Young Creators

OPPO is committed to supporting young creative talents and amplifying their voices globally. Through the 2026 Awards, this commitment is taken even further with several new programs designed to empower creators' long-term growth through professional guidance and coaching.

In partnership with Discovery Channel, OPPO has launched the Filmmaker Accelerator Program, offering young creators exclusive mentorship from industry professionals. Creators who submit videos to the Super Video category will have the chance to be invited to produce a short film with end-to-end creative support and potential broadcast opportunities, alongside a grant provided by OPPO.

OPPO and Discovery Channel launch the Filmmaker Accelerator Program.

OPPO is also extending support to the wider creator community through a range of accessible learning resources. Among them, the new OPPO Imaging Academy features a series of tutorial videos designed to help users tap into the full power of OPPO's cutting-edge technology to transform creative inspiration into artistry.

In addition to these initiatives, the OPPO Creators program further expands visibility and creates more professional development opportunities for young creators. Through the program, outstanding works will be showcased across various OPPO platforms, and creators will also gain priority invitations to flagship launches and collaboration opportunities, along with complimentary professional equipment to support their ongoing development.

Opening Diverse Pathways for Creators Worldwide

As part of efforts to recognize a wider range of creators and expand participation in the Awards, the OPPO Photography Awards 2026 introduces a diverse awards program that gives creators more opportunities to gain global exposure and showcase their work on a bigger stage.

In addition to the Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards up for grabs in the main competition, participants can also earn recognition and generous incentives through Honorable Mentions, Regional Awards, and the Audience Choice Awards. A total of 38 different awards or acknowledgements are on offer recognizing outstanding creators across all categories, with a total prize pool of $76,500.

Total prizes of $76,500 across 38 award categories.

The year's judging panel also brings together renowned industry professionals in both photography and cinematography, including Tina Signesdottir Hult and Wang Jianjun, Hasselblad Masters; Vikram Channa, Vice President, Co-Lead, and Editorial Chief at Warner Bros. Discovery; Zhu Jiong, Professor at the School of Visual Media and Communication, Beijing Film Academy; Pete Lau, Senior Vice President and Chief Product Officer at OPPO; and Joy Cheng, Director of Imaging Cognition at OPPO.

Members of the awards' judging panel.

To further encourage participation, the 2026 Awards also introduces a new monthly contest format. Through the new format, young creators can receive feedback and more visibility on an ongoing basis, while also having the opportunity to progress into the main competition.

Global Competition Submissions Open Until December 31

Submissions for the OPPO Photography Awards 2026 and the first round of monthly contests are now open. Creators worldwide are invited to submit their entries and showcase their creativity and storytelling visions captured on OPPO, OnePlus or realme devices.

Entries for the global competition will remain open until 24:00 (UTC+8), December 31, 2026. Submissions for all categories can be made via the official OPPO Photography Awards website. Submissions for the Super Video category can also be made through Instagram and TikTok using the hashtags #SuperVideo and #ShotOnOPPO.

Entries for the first global monthly contest can be submitted via the official website or on Instagram with the hashtags #SuperEveryMoment and #ShotOnOPPO. Upcoming monthly contests will feature different themes, with future submissions accepted through both social platforms and the official website.

For more information on the OPPO Photography Awards 2026 and the monthly contests, please visit the official website at https://lumo.oppo.com/en/.
Hashtag: #OPPO

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Esco Lifesciences Group Announces Acquisition of Allwin Medical

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 14:04:20 +0200

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - Esco Lifesciences Group ("Esco") today announced the acquisition of Allwin Medical Devices, Inc., a leading manufacturer of ART/IVF consumables. Allwin Medical will continue to operate under its established brand and will become a key pillar within Esco's Medical portfolio, alongside Esco Medical, further strengthening Esco's global position in reproductive medicine.

The acquisition reinforces Esco's strategy and commitment to deliver integrated ART/IVF workflow solutions-combining advanced equipment, time lapse imaging, high-quality consumables, digital traceability and witnessing, and AI-enabled embryo assessment and clinical support into a unified platform for fertility clinics worldwide.

"We are honored that Mr. Dhiren Mehta has chosen Esco as the long-term home for Allwin Medical," said XQ Lin, Chairman & CEO of Esco Lifesciences Group. "Allwin has built a strong foundation in quality, innovation, and customer trust. Together, we will accelerate its international growth while preserving the values and legacy that define the company. With Allwin, we all win."

Esco also extends its sincere appreciation to Mr. Dhiren Mehta, Founder of Allwin Medical, for his leadership and partnership.

"The integration of Allwin Medical with Esco Lifesciences Group represents a strategic milestone in Allwin Medical's evolution and long-term growth trajectory. This collaboration reflects a strong alignment in vision, capabilities, and commitment to the ART/IVF sector." said Mr. Dhiren Mehta. "This partnership enables Allwin Medical to leverage Esco's global infrastructure, technological expertise, and international reach, while continuing to build on its established market position and specialized capabilities. We believe that the combined strengths of both organizations will support accelerated growth, expanded global presence, and enhanced value delivery to clinicians and patients, while reinforcing Allwin Medical's commitment to quality, innovation, and customer relationships."

Allwin Medical's operations and team will continue to play a central role in driving growth within Esco's Medical business unit. Headquartered in Anaheim, California, USA,and with Indian operation in Mumbai and Surat, Allwin Medical will serve as a key operating node and the India headquarters for Esco's Medical business unit, supporting further expansion in one of the world's fastest-growing healthcare markets.

This acquisition marks another step in Esco's vision to build a comprehensive platform enabling ART/IVF clinics to operate more efficiently, safely, and intelligently, ultimately improving patient outcomes.

As part of its long-term vision, Esco has positioned itself as a trusted partner and permanent home for small and medium sized businesses in the life sciences and fertility tools sector-providing continuity, global commercial reach, and operational support while preserving the entrepreneurial spirit and legacy of each company.

Hashtag: #Esco

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Allwin Medical

Allwin Medical is a leading manufacturer of a wide range of medical devices including Women's Health (IVF) and Urology. Headquartered in Anaheim, California, USA, the company is committed to providing its customers with high quality devices. Its products are sold in 130+ countries globally through a network of distributors that cater to global markets. Within India, 100+ dealers support and promote sales for the Indian market. Founded in 1998 by Dhiren Mehta, who has more than 39 years of experience in the medical device industry, the company has exhibited consistent and strong growth.

About Esco Lifesciences Group

Esco Lifesciences Group is a world-leading manufacturer of laboratory, pharmaceutical equipment, bioprocess tools and IVF medical devices, delivering sustainable workflow solutions to advance global health. Since 1978, the Singapore-based company is committed to excellence, ensuring forward-thinking technology, responsive support, and reliability, making Esco a trusted partner for the life science and medical markets in more than 150 countries.

Esco, through its Medical business unit, leads in delivering comprehensive workflow solutions for assisted reproduction technologies (ART) to IVF clinics, laboratories, and research centers worldwide.

For more information about Esco Lifesciences Group: https://group.escolifesciences.com/

VinDynamics Partners With Schaeffler To Advance Humanoid Robot Development

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 13:44:18 +0200

HANOI, VIETNAM - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - VinDynamics, a technology company of Vingroup, today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Schaeffler, a leading global motion technology company headquartered in Germany. The partnership aims to foster joint research and development and lay the groundwork for future commercial agreements concerning core components for humanoid robots. This milestone represents a significant step forward in VinDynamics' strategy to advance humanoid robotics, while unlocking new opportunities to accelerate innovation and expand technological collaboration between the two companies on a global scale.

From left to right: Mr. Nguyen Quang Vinh - Chief Technology Officer, VinDynamics; Mr. Le Minh - Director of Hardware, VinDynamics; Prof. Han Boon Siew - Head of Humanoid Asia/Pacific, Schaeffler; Mr. Maximilian Fiedler - Regional CEO Asia/Pacific, Schaeffler, at the MOU signing ceremony between the two parties.

Under the MOU, VinDynamics and Schaeffler will collaborate on the research, development, and optimization of key components for humanoid robots, including actuator systems and motors. The partnership will focus on evaluating and refining prototype actuators or actuator components developed by Schaeffler, encompassing mechanical, gearbox, and hardware parameters, with due consideration for key components, tolerances, materials, and manufacturability.

In addition, VinDynamics will conduct technical assessments and optimization of its control software to ensure seamless compatibility and effective integration with the proposed actuator systems. Both parties will share relevant technical information and best practices necessary for the efficient execution of the project, in full compliance with the agreed confidentiality provisions.

Following the Start of Production, to be defined under a subsequent project agreement, the collaboration is expected to extend to the provision of advice and support in product simulation and validation to enhance system performance and reliability. VinDynamics will share operational product data of the actuators with Schaeffler, which Schaeffler may utilize to further improve actuator designs and performance.

The collaboration between VinDynamics and Schaeffler is anticipated to drive meaningful breakthroughs in the field of humanoid robotics, particularly by accelerating the research and development of highly complex and mission-critical components such as actuator systems and motor assemblies. Schaeffler's extensive heritage and global reputation in motion technology, combined with VinDynamics' strengths in robotics research, system design, and integration, establish a powerful foundation for setting new technological benchmarks in the industry.

Mr. La Manh Hung, President of VinDynamics, said: "We are honored to collaborate with Schaeffler, one of the world's foremost motion technology companies with a distinguished legacy of innovation and engineering excellence. This partnership represents not only a convergence of technological capabilities but also a strategic alignment of vision, as both organizations are committed to shaping the future of humanoid robotics. We believe that by combining our respective strengths, this collaboration will unlock transformative opportunities and accelerate the transition of humanoid robots from research environments to impactful real-world applications across both industrial and everyday settings."

Mr. Maximilian Fiedler, Regional CEO Asia/Pacific of Schaeffler, said: "VinDynamics is an inspiring technology partner with a clear and ambitious vision for humanoid robotics. Our collaboration underscores Schaeffler's commitment to working alongside pioneering innovators to advance the next generation of motion technologies. By integrating Schaeffler's decades of expertise in actuator and drive technologies with VinDynamics' capabilities in developing next-generation robotic systems, we are confident that this partnership will deliver significant technological advancements and contribute to shaping how humanoid robots are deployed in the future."

Established in September 2025, VinDynamics is a pioneering company in the field of humanoid robotics within Vingroup. The company is dedicated to developing versatile, human-centric robots capable of seamless integration into everyday life, with the scalability to support global deployment.

Schaeffler, with more than 80 years of leadership in motion technology, is one of the world's largest family-owned industrial companies, employing approximately 110,000 people and operating more than 250 locations across 55 countries.Hashtag: #VinDynamics

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About VinDynamics

VinDynamics is a technology company under Vingroup, dedicated to the research, development, and manufacturing of advanced robotics and automation solutions, particularly in the field of humanoid robots. Leveraging cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, mechatronics, and motion control, VinDynamics aims to deliver intelligent, safe, and cost-effective robotic products that enhance productivity and improve quality of life.

Learn more at: https://vindynamics.net/en

About Schaeffler

Schaeffler is a global motion technology company headquartered in Germany, providing innovative solutions in bearings, drive systems, and mechatronics. With operations in more than 50 countries and strong research and development capabilities, Schaeffler plays a key role in advancing future technology trends such as electrification, automation, and robotics. The company is committed to delivering sustainable and efficient solutions that help shape the future of motion.

Learn more at: https://www.schaeffler.com

Lakers centre Hayes gets Slovenian passport

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 13:30:00 +0200

Los Angeles Lakers centre Jaxson Hayes has officially become a Slovenian citizen. A teammate of Slovenian NBA star Luka Dončić, he will soon be joining the men's national basketball team.

The 25-year-old athlete confirmed having completed the process of naturalisation as he spoke to the press after team practice on 20 April. He said him getting a Slovenian passport had frequently been a topic of conversation in the locker room.

"We got my Slovenian passport. That's all he's been telling me, saying he's my Slovenian brother every time," Hayes was quoted as saying in reference to Dončić by the news portal Eurohoops.

When asked how his Slovenian was coming along, Hayes said he did not know a single word, laughing, but then jokingly added that he knew a few Slovenian words, but could not say them in front of the press.

Hayes might get the first chance to join the Slovenian national team in July for their next round of FIBA World Cup 2027 European Qualifiers for games against Estonia and Sweden, hoping to secure a spot in the final qualifying stage, scheduled for August.

At the moment, the team is at the top of group H, having won three out of four games so far.

Meanwhile, it remains unclear when Dončić, who has suffered a hamstring injury, will play again. Following treatment in Spain, he had returned to Los Angeles and did an easy practice yesterday.

Tomorrow, the LA Lakers will play the second game of the first round of Western Conference playoffs, against the Houston Rockets. The Los Angeles team won the first game against the Texans 107:98.

HKPC and Federation of Malaysian Manufacturing Sign MoU

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 13:04:13 +0200

Joining Forces to Build a New Regional Value Chain and Drive Industrial Upgrading across ASEAN

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - Hong Kong has long maintained a robust bilateral relationship with Malaysia. As ASEAN's third-largest economy, Malaysia possesses strong manufacturing and service sectors and stands as Hong Kong's eighth-largest trading partner. Amidst the global restructuring of supply chains, Hong Kong leverages its unique position as an international innovation and technology centre anchored by its regional connectivity while remaining integrated with the world. It serves as a vital springboard and strategic hub for Malaysian enterprises expanding into regional markets and for emerging firms seeking to go global. The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) and the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturing (FMM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking the establishment of a deep strategic partnership. By integrating the resource advantages of both regions, the collaboration will provide technological innovation and market expansion support for enterprises in Hong Kong and Malaysia, optimising global supply chain layouts and helping Hong Kong better implement the "Bringing in and Going Global" strategy to seize regional development opportunities within ASEAN.

The Hong Kong Productivity Council and the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturing signed a Memorandum of Understanding, marking the establishment of a deep strategic partnership and integration of the resource advantages of both regions.

The signing ceremony of the MoU took place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on April 20, 2026. Witnessed by Mr Jacob Lee Chor Kok, President of FMM; Tan Sri Dato' (Dr) Soh Thian Lai, President Emeritus of FMM; Mr Owin Fung Ho Yin, Director of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Kuala Lumpur; and Hon Sunny Tan, Chairman of HKPC, the MoU was signed by Datuk Dr Yeoh Oon Tean, CEO of FMM, and Mr Mohamed D. BUTT, Executive Director of HKPC. This collaboration will facilitate the development of a new value chain connecting Hong Kong, Malaysia and ASEAN, driving new industrialisation in both regions while accelerating industrial upgrading and technological application.

Hon Sunny Tan, Chairman of HKPC, said, "Under the national 15th Five-Year Plan, Hong Kong has become a vital platform for enterprises to go global. Malaysia maintains robust ties with the Asian region, as well as the global industrial and trade markets. The signing of this MoU between HKPC and FMM marks a key milestone in the collaboration on industrial modernisation. We are committed to technological innovation, with a focus on enhancing expertise in automation, Industry 4.0, AI, and robotics, and actively building business matching platforms to facilitate business opportunities and expand our scope of cooperation. This not only deepens the partnership between the two organisations, but also establishes a strategic hub connecting Hong Kong with the ASEAN market. Hong Kong will fully leverage its 'Bringing in and Going Global', helping Malaysian enterprises precisely connect with the vast regional and global market while supporting Hong Kong companies in rooting themselves in ASEAN, co-creating a resilient and innovative cross-border value chain."

Mr Jacob Lee Chor Kok, President of FMM, stated, "This MoU is just the beginning with our roadmap including joint technical training, workshops, technology visits and pilot projects to provide our members with first-hand exposure to the latest manufacturing innovations. We envision a future where Malaysian and Hong Kong companies collaborate on research and development (R&D), pilot new technologies and co-create solutions for emerging challenges"

Six Key Areas to Empower New Regional Industrial Upgrading
HKPC and FMM will launch comprehensive cooperation to help enterprises transform technological empowerment into competitive advantage in today's dynamic market. The two parties will focus on Smart Manufacturing & Industry 4.0, AI & Robotics Innovation, Digital Transformation & Cybersecurity, Cross-border Business Ecosystems and Talent Development.

This collaboration integrates FMM's extensive supply chain network of over 4,000 member enterprises with HKPC's profound R&D capabilities in product innovation and technology transfer. Through organising delegations, professional training, business matching, and technical seminars, we will assist enterprises in precisely mastering cutting-edge technologies and market trends. Furthermore, by promoting reciprocal visits between enterprises in both regions, we aim to foster mutual economic and trade empowerment. This synergy not only strengthens corporate resilience against supply chain risks but also ensures that enterprises from both regions secure a proactive position in global supply chain competition, co-creating a distinct competitive advantage.

Hashtag: #HKPC

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Discrimination against Roma flagged in Amnesty report

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 12:45:45 +0200

The Slovenian chapter of Amnesty International (AI) identified systemic discrimination against the Roma as a continuing key human rights challenge in the country, as the human rights organisation released its State of the World's Human Rights report .

In the section on Slovenia the report finds that over the past year Roma continued to face systemic discrimination, particularly in housing and education.

Commenting on the report, the Slovenian chapter noted that settlements in the southeast of the country still lack access to water and electricity, creating substandard conditions that fundamentally obstruct Roma children's right to education.

Impact of Šutar Act

The report also raises the omnibus Šutar Act passed in November 2025 two weeks after a fatal incident in the city of Novo Mesto allegedly involving a member of the Roma community. "The law expanded police and judicial powers, removed procedural safeguards, and linked social benefits to the payment of fines; measures likely to disproportionately affect Roma and deepen their social exclusion."

AI Slovenia head Nataša Posel says this law failed to hide what is effectively a form of collective punishment of the Roma population. She says the state is failing to meet its obligations to effectively prevent racism and discrimination against the Roma community in the southeast.

The government pointed to that law in its recent response to a petition for water access for all Roma families in southeastern Slovenia. It expressed concern that non-systemic spatial planning measures might place other citizens in an unequal position compared to the Roma.

Posel is critical that the government appears to accept the current unequal position of the Roma population as normal.

As the Šutar Act enabled the seizure of social assistance benefits, more than 1,000 individuals and their families across the country were left without social benefits in the first three months of the year until the Constitutional Court stayed the controversial provision in early April, the NGO noted.

Human Rights Ombudsman Simona Drenik Bavdek also believes that "Roma issues are a significant human rights question in Slovenia." Her office specifically highlighted the intersectional discrimination faced by Roma girls and the failure of Roma integration, stressing that both the state and municipalities must work together to find long-term solutions.

Shortage of GPs, arms transfers

AI report also raises again the shortage of GPs, which in the past year left around 140,000 people in the country without a designated family doctor, including more than 30,000 adults who have been forced to seek medical assistance in temporary clinics for unassigned patients.

Drenik Bavdek identified access to a doctor "at both primary and secondary levels, given the unacceptably long waiting lines" as a key issue. She also raised staff shortages, including in the judiciary and court experts, as well as in healthcare, social work, education, and inspection services.

AI Slovenia noted that while the Slovenian government was the first in Europe to adopt a decree banning the arms trade with Israel on 31 July last year, it breached this decision only a few days later by allowing a ship carrying military cargo to depart for Israel.

Other significant human rights issues remained unresolved in 2025. Some of the erased - the thousands of people from former Yugoslav republics who were deleted from Slovenia's permanent resident rolls after independence - continue to live without status and without the possibility of regularising it.

Moreover, asylum procedures still take significantly too long, and the return of asylum seekers to Croatia continues despite numerous reports and evidence of rights violations in that country.

In the area of transgender rights, the organisation noted that individuals must still provide medical reports to change their gender marker on official documents. Similarly, the government has failed to recognise the urgency of adopting a national LGBTIQ+ strategy.

IONCHI Welcomes AITO to Join Hands with BMW and Mercedes-Benz to Develop Premium High-Power Charging Networks in China

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 12:24:08 +0200

BEIJING, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - IONCHI, the joint venture between BMW and Mercedes-Benz on high-power charging services, announced today that SERES will join the company as an equal shareholder. Through this shareholding investment, AITO, the premium brand of the SERES Group, will support the development of IONCHI's premium charging infrastructure. With this addition, IONCHI continues to provide premium charging services through advanced technology and digital services to all eligible vehicles, while offering exclusive charging experiences to the customers of BMW, AITO and Mercedes-Benz. The expanded three-party partnership marks the beginning of a new chapter for the premium charging network, enabling further growth and broader customer reach. Each of the three shareholders will hold a 33.3% stake in the joint venture.

Established in 2024, IONCHI aims to elevate China's premium electric mobility experience through a state-of-the-art public high-power charging network. The network prioritizes prime locations in urban areas, combining ultra-fast, reliable charging with premium station operation and maintenance, customer service, and the use of 100% renewable energy, offering users a convenient, reliable, and sustainable premium charging experience.

New growth perspectives through a strengthened partnership

BMW and Mercedes-Benz welcome AITO's participation and will work with the new partner to unlock new opportunities for IONCHI's geographic expansion, network density and service innovation. The collaboration reflects a shared commitment by all parties to further develop high-quality charging infrastructure and support the continued growth of electric mobility in China.

IONCHI's charging network aims to provide premium charging services to all electric vehicle customers. Customers of BMW, AITO, and Mercedes-Benz will enjoy exclusive benefits such as online reservation and priority power allocation in addition to IONCHI's premium basic services.

Commitment to sustainable mobility in China

Through the continued expansion of high-quality charging infrastructure and the integration of advanced technologies, IONCHI will continue to contribute to the development of China's electric mobility ecosystem. In addition, all shareholders share a long-term commitment to supporting the development of sustainable mobility in China.

The transaction is subject to regulatory approval.
Hashtag: #IONCHI #SeresGroup

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Jollibee Group Reports Record Q4 Operating Income; Posts Strong Full-Year 2025 Results

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 12:04:06 +0200

Q4 operating income rises 41.9% year-on-year to Php4.1 billion; full-year system-wide sales up 16.6%

METRO MANILA, PHILIPPINES - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - Jollibee Foods Corporation (PSE: JFC), also known as the Jollibee Group ("JFC" or the "Group"), reported strong full-year 2025 performance, led by record fourth-quarter operating income of Php4.1 billion (up 41.9% year-on-year) and 16.6% full-year system-wide sales (SWS) growth, driven by continued strength across key Asian markets and its broader international platform.

In 2025, the Jollibee Group strengthened its position across Asia while expanding its international footprint, with the international business delivering 27.0% SWS growth for the year. Key Asian markets, including Vietnam-Jollibee's largest international market by store count for the Jollibee brand-delivered strong performance alongside continued network expansion.

The Group also recorded strong momentum in its coffee and tea segment, with SWS increasing by 44.9% for the full year, supporting diversification of growth drivers and continued store network development.

In Hong Kong, Jollibee continued to strengthen its relevance among consumers, earning recognition as My Favourite Fast-Food Shop at the U Food Favourite Food Awards 2025-reflecting its growing appeal among mainstream local customers.

In Singapore, the Group further expanded its footprint through Jollibee, Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf, and Tim Ho Wan, with 29, 79, and 9 stores, respectively, as of end-2025. Jollibee Singapore was named the No. 1 Fast Food Chain for Customer Service by The Straits Times, while Tim Ho Wan refreshed its flagship Marina Bay Sands store with a more dim sum-centric menu and new offerings at accessible price points-both reinforcing stronger patronage from mainstream local customers alongside its core base.

This sustained performance across markets contributed to the Group's overall results, with SWS increasing by 16.6% for the full year across its Philippine and international businesses.

The Jollibee Group closed 2025 with its highest fourth-quarter operating income on record, increasing by 41.9% year-on-year.

Ernesto Tanmantiong, Global Chief Executive Officer of JFC, shared the following statement on JFC's performance: "I'm proud of how our teams performed in 2025. We finished the year with record fourth-quarter operating income-up 41.9% year-on-year-reflecting both strong sales momentum and better operating leverage.

For the full year, we delivered 16.6% system-wide sales growth across our Philippine and international businesses. Coffee and tea continued to build scale with 44.9% system-wide sales growth, and our international business grew system-wide sales by 27.0% as we continued to expand with discipline across our key markets.

In particular, the Jollibee brand sustained strong momentum in Vietnam, its largest international market by store count, supported by continued customer demand and ongoing network expansion.

We opened 1,126 stores during the year, the most in our company's history, which strengthens our runway for sustained growth. Looking ahead to 2026, our priorities remain clear: profitable growth, operational excellence, and consistent value creation for our shareholders and other stakeholders."

Financial Data	Quarter 4 (Unaudited)		% Change	FY 2025 (Audited)		% Change
Financial Data	2025	2024	% Change	2025	2024
System Wide Sales	122,300 (~US$2,084)	109,180 (~US$1,877)	12.0	455,111 (~US$7,914)	390,284 (~US$6,812)	16.6
Revenues	80,890 (~US$1,378)	73,695 (~US$1,267)	9.8	305,112 (~US$5,306)	269,942 (~US$4,712)	13.0
Operating Income	4,143 (~US$71)	2,919 (~US$50)	41.9	20,150 (~US$350)	16,889 (~US$295)	19.3
EBITDA	9,920 (~US$169)	8,355 (~US$144)	18.7	41,830 (~US$727)	36,746 (~US$641)	13.8
Net Income	1,988 (~US$34)	1,920 (~US$33)	3.5	11,005 (~US$191)	10,796 (~US$188)	1.9
Net Income Attributable to Equity
Holders of the Parent Company	2,221 (~US$38)	1,850 (~US$32)	20.1	10,872 (~US$189)	10,317 (~US$180)	5.4
Earnings Per Share - Basic	1.902 (~US$0.032)	1.574 (~US$0.027)	20.8	9.386 (~US$0.163)	8.851 (~US$0.154)	6.0
Earnings Per Share - Diluted	1.897 (~US$0.032)	1.570 (~US$0.027)	20.8	9.362 (~US$0.163)	8.826 (~US$0.154)	6.1

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Jollibee Group

Jollibee Foods Corporation (PSE: JFC) (also known as "JFC") is one of the world's fastest-growing restaurant companies, driven by its purpose of spreading joy through superior taste. It manages and operates a portfolio which includes 19 brands with over 10,000 stores and cafés across 33 countries.

JFC's portfolio includes nine wholly owned brands (Jollibee, Chowking, Greenwich, Red Ribbon, Mang Inasal, Yonghe King, Hong Zhuang Yuan, Smashburger and Tim Ho Wan), five franchised brands (Burger King, Panda Express, Yoshinoya, Common Man Coffee Roasters, and Tiong Bahru Bakery in the Philippines), and ownership stakes in other key brands like The Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf (80%), Compose Coffee (70%), SuperFoods Group that operates Highlands Coffee (60%), and bubble tea brand Milksha (51%). The Company also has membership interests in Tortazo, LLC, along with Chef Rick Bayless, for Tortazo in the U.S. and has recently invested in Botrista, a leader in beverage technology.

JFC's global sustainability agenda, Joy for Tomorrow, underscores its commitment to sustainable business practices across food safety, employee welfare, community support, good governance, and environmental responsibility, among others. These focus areas are aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs).

JFC has been recognized as the Philippines' Most Admired Company by the Asian Wall Street Journal, named one of Asia's Fab 50 Companies, and listed among Forbes' World's Best Employers and Top Female-Friendly Companies. The Company is also a five-time Gallup Exceptional Workplace Award recipient and featured in TIME's World's Best Companies and Fortune's Southeast Asia 500 List.

To learn more about Jollibee Group, visit www.jollibeegroup.com

iFLYTEK Affirms Singapore as Strategic AI Hub Amid Regional Expansion at Gitex Asia 2026

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 10:23:55 +0200

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - iFLYTEK, a leading Chinese AI and intelligent speech technology company, reaffirmed its long-term commitment to Singapore as the command center for Southeast Asian operations during the second day of Gitex Asia 2026 on April 10. Company executives detailed the firm's robust local growth trajectory and its approach to navigating the nuanced linguistic landscape of the region.

Founded in 1999 and currently valued at over SGD 20 billion, iFLYTEK has accelerated its overseas footprint since 2019. According to data shared during the event, the company established its Singapore office in 2024 and has already surpassed 10,000 units in hardware sales, generating approximately RMB 200 million (SGD 40-50 million) in revenue. Regional business growth exceeded 200 percent last year, a figure executives described as exceeding internal forecasts.

"Singapore's National AI Strategy 2.0 positions multilingual capability as fundamental infrastructure," a company spokesperson stated. "Our advantage lies not merely in translation, but in integrating real-time, mixed-language processing into enterprise workflows-such as our smart notetakers that transcribe and summarize meetings conducted in blended English, Mandarin, and Malay without manual language switching."

The company highlighted deepening local partnerships, including collaboration with platforms like Shopee for supply chain services, local broadcasters for multilingual subtitle generation, and major transportation hubs for communication solutions.

Addressing concerns regarding workforce displacement, iFLYTEK emphasized a philosophy of augmentation over replacement. "AI handles repetitive mechanical tasks, allowing professionals to focus on context, emotion, and creative strategy-domains where human expertise remains irreplaceable," the spokesperson noted. The firm is actively supporting workforce transition through internal role re-skilling and user education programs.

On geopolitical shifts, iFLYTEK acknowledged a recalibration of global strategy, noting that while the Middle East remains a key pillar, recent events have prompted an accelerated investment in Southeast Asia. The company projects both its Singapore-based headcount and overall business scale to grow by over 50 percent within the coming year, driven by new product launches in wearable AI and deeper localized development.

In conclusion, iFLYTEK's deepening investment in Singapore signals more than commercial expansion-it represents a strategic alignment with the nation's vision for inclusive, multilingual AI. As the company scales its local workforce and product ecosystem, it aims to demonstrate that technological progress and workforce empowerment can advance in parallel across Southeast Asia.

Hashtag: #iFLYTEK

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

NineSmart Debuts at InnoEX 2026 Showcasing Upgraded PropTech Solutions

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 09:03:40 +0200

Leading Property Management Toward Automation and Transformation

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - Hong Kong property technology (PropTech) startup NineSmart, participated in the international innovation and technology event InnoEX, jointly organised by the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau of the HKSAR government and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. As a proud participant of the Smart City Consortium's "SCC Smart Living Pavilion", NineSmart showcased its latest developments in PropTech, drawing attention from numerous industry professionals and visitors.

NineSmart Booth at InnoEx2026 Showcasing PropTech Solutions

Show Highlights: Upgraded Smart Property Management Solution Demo

At InnoEX, NineSmart highlighted its upgraded Smart Property solution, featuring multiple innovative functions to enhance resident experience and property management efficiency. Their Smart Intercom system now includes voice-to-text feature, allowing visitors to simply speak the resident's unit number to the intercom panel. The system connects to the resident's app for direct conversation and remote door unlocking, improving access convenience and unmanned management feasibility without compromising security.

For access control, Smart Property enables residents or visitors to scan a QR code on the elevator panel to select and go to multiple designated floors simultaneously, optimizing traffic flow while enhancing security. The Smart Mailbox feature also became a showstopper, equipped with a motion sensor to instantly detect mail delivery. When mail arrives, the system pushes real-time notifications via the app, allowing residents to stay informed without frequent mailbox checks.

On-Site Reactions: Innovations Win Visitor Praise

Visitors were impressed by NineSmart's innovative applications. A visitor noted, "The Smart Mailbox provides instant notifications for new mail, which is extremely practical for daily life - it prevents missing important letters, which is truly impressive." An industry peer added, "NineSmart continuously optimizes its product features to meet the actual needs of the Hong Kong market and property management sector."

Future Development: Driving Automation and Unmanned Operations

NineSmart co-founder, Lucas Mo Tsun-Ming, stated, "We will continue to deepen our Smart Property solutions, focusing investment on automation, transformation and unmanned operation technologies to help the property management industry boost operational efficiency amid labor shortages and evolving management demands."

Currently, NineSmart serves multiple property developers and renowned property management firms, with business spanning new residential projects, retrofitting access systems for old buildings, as well as campuses, clubhouses and commercial offices - committed to advancing smart living and smart city development in Hong Kong.

Hashtag: #NineSmart #InnoEx #SmartCity #SmartProperty #PropTech

https://ninesmart.io/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/ninesmart/
https://www.facebook.com/ninesmart.io

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

NineSmart Limited

NineSmart is a leader in property technology, specialising in IoT and AI-driven solutions that transform property management. We are dedicated to developing and deploying innovative solutions for smart building automation and digital transformation to comprehensively optimize management efficiency. As a Cyberport incubatee, NineSmart is dedicated to creating innovative, sustainable, and user-centric smart living experiences. Visit ninesmart.io to learn more.

Enchanting journey through Beijing's Chaoyang Garden Festival, where nature meets Oriental romance

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 08:43:37 +0200

BEIJING, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - The Beijing Chaoyang Garden Festival is now in full swing, transforming the district into a living tapestry of blossoms. Apinya Charunpumhiran, a Thai expert with the China International Communications Group and a social media influencer, recently immersed herself in the festival, capturing its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. From the vibrant floral landscapes to the bustling waterfront market, she experienced first-hand the springtime allure of Chaoyang District and the Oriental romance of Beijing as a garden city.

The seasonal spectacle is anchored by the establishment of a Garden City Demonstration Zone, an initiative by the Chaoyang District government to reimagine urban living by weaving nature into the fabric of the city. In this seamless blend of city buzz and natural calm, residents and visitors can experience the best of all worlds: nature, culture, and the comfort of a refined lifestyle.

To experience this vision firsthand, Apinya set out to explore some of the festival's most captivating spots. Her journey began at Beixiaohe Park, where the brilliant cherry blossoms were in peak bloom. The park's enchanting "flower goddess" performance and adorable cherry blossom-themed robots added a playful touch to the serene landscape. Apinya then traded land for water at the "cherry blossom waterway," where she tried her hand at rowing a traditional sculling boat. Drifting gently on the rippling water with a soft breeze, she found that admiring the cherry blossoms from the boat offered a uniquely romantic perspective.

Leaving the waterway behind, her next stop was Yuan Dynasty City Wall Relics Park, home to over ten thousand crabapple trees across more than fifty varieties. In Chinese culture, the crabapple is often used as a metaphor for feminine beauty. Liu Hui, a staff member at the Park, introduced her to the midget crabapple, the most widely planted variety in the park. Native to China, it is renowned for its delicate fragrance, a trait that sets it apart from other crabapple and has earned it high praise from ancient scholars and poets.

From radiant cherry blossoms to crabapple blooms, the festival showcases the boundless vitality of spring in Beijing. Reflecting on her experience, Apinya observed that through its garden city initiative, Chaoyang District has successfully turned its picturesque natural environment into both a driver of economic growth and a source of everyday quality of life.

Hashtag: #ChinaNewsService

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Fuel prices dip again

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 07:03:00 +0200

Regulated fuel prices in Slovenia have dropped for the second straight week but they remain well above the levels seen before the start of the Iran war in late February and the subsequent crisis in the Strait of Hormuz.

The new price of diesel, in force for a week between 21 and 28 April, was set at €1.736 a litre, down 8.6 cents on the previous week, but still above the €1.465 mark in force before the US-Israel strikes on Iran.

Regular petrol at service stations off the motorway network now comes at €1.605 a litre, 1.5 cents less than a week ago. In the last change before the Iran war, the government set the price of regular at €1.436.

Heating oil now costs €1.386 a litre, 9.8 cents less than a week ago.

Regulated prices only apply to pumps off the motorway network. Along the motorways fuel retailers are free to set the prices, but they will reflect the trend in administered prices.

The government has been cushioning the effects of the global oil market crisis by adjusting excise duties and other levies, but it did not adjust them this time.

Excise duties on diesel and heating oil are already at the minimum, while there is still some room for a cut on regular petrol.

In response to the oil supply disruption and rising global prices, the government has shifted from a fortnightly to a weekly pricing model. It has also fully liberalised prices on motorways.

HKICPA and IFAC host landmark PAIB Conference to gather global elites and explore future of finance leaders in a changing global landscape

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 06:43:24 +0200

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants (HKICPA) and the International Federation of Accountants (IFAC) successfully co-hosted the HKICPA x IFAC PAIB Conference on 18 April 2026 at the Grand Hyatt Hong Kong. Under the theme "Forging what's next - PAIBs at the helm of change," the event featured star-studded lineup of guests and attracted over 300 financial leaders and professional accountants in business (PAIBs) from Europe, Asia, and other regions, including representatives from the UK, France, the Netherlands, Japan, and Indonesia, alongside those from our local community, to discuss the role of PAIBs in leading future transformation amidst rapid technological shifts and a complex geopolitical environment.

Paul Chan, Financial Secretary of the HKSAR Government (Fifth from Right), Stephen Law, HKICPA President (Fifth from Left), Josephine Okui Ossiya, Chair of the IFAC PAIB Advisory Group (Fourth from Right) and Dr. Kelvin Wong, Chairman of the Securities and Futures Commission (Fourth from Left), Michael George Fitzgerald, Finance Director of the MTR Corporation (Third from Right) and other distinguished guests gather for a group photo at the HKICPA x IFAC PAIB Conference.

This landmark event gathered important stakeholders from multiple sectors, showcasing the depth of industry collaborations: The event marked the first visit of the IFAC Professional Accountants in Business Advisory Group to Hong Kong in over 20 years. Chaired by Stephen Law, the first PAIB to serve as President of the HKICPA in more than a decade, the event successfully established a high-level platform for international exchange. This further underscores the Institute's unwavering commitment to bridging international standards with local business practices.

The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, attended the event as the Guest of Honour. He said that geopolitics, technological disruption and the green transition are reshaping global business and finance. They are key forces redefining competitiveness.

Mr. Chan noted that Hong Kong is well positioned to benefit under "one country, two systems," offering stability and connectivity amid global uncertainty. He pointed to strong IPO activity, asset management growth, and deeper integration with the Chinese Mainland under the 15th Five-Year Plan.

He outlined two major strategies: "AI+" to integrate artificial intelligence across industries, supported by talent development initiatives; and "Finance+" to expand financial markets, strengthen the ecosystem, and support innovation and technology firms. Efforts include enhancing listing regimes, promoting green finance, and attracting global capital and enterprises.

Mr. Chan also stressed the need for accountants to enhance AI capabilities, understand geopolitical risks, and uphold professional integrity. He concluded that professional accountants will play a critical role in navigating change and sustaining trust in markets.

HKICPA President Stephen Law emphasized the unique "super connector" role of Hong Kong and the HKICPA's nearly 50-year partnership with IFAC in his welcoming remarks. He remarked: "As the common language of the business world, accounting plays an indispensable role in international commercial activities. PAIBs are often uniquely positioned to help enterprises turn uncertainty into decisions and strategy into performance. Moreover, given our unique position-backed by the Motherland while staying deeply connected to global markets-allows Hong Kong to act as a 'super value-adder' for businesses and investors to create value and manage complexity. The Institute will continue to actively host more international conferences and professional exchange activities to expand the global network of Hong Kong's accounting profession."

The Conference gathered an impressive lineup of international and local leaders, including IFAC Chief Executive Officer Lee White, who delivered a video remarks, Josephine Okui Ossiya, Chair of the IFAC PAIB Advisory Group, Dr. Kelvin Wong, Chairman of the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) and Michael George Fitzgerald, Finance Director of the MTR Corporation.

SFC Chairman Dr. Kelvin Wong offered forward-looking insights into the future development of the financial center, while Finance Director of MTR Corporation Michael George Fitzgerald explored strategic leadership and the evolving responsibilities of finance leaders. Two panel discussions convened core financial leaders from sectors including the Government, infrastructure, real estate, hospitality, energy, and fintech. Senior financial and administration executives from InvestHK, MTR Corporation, Hang Lung Properties, Sino Group, State Grid Overseas Investment, Miramar Group and Floating Interest Corporation joined the stage to discuss strategic approaches to navigating uncertainty. The sessions underscored that PAIBs are at the forefront of addressing complex business challenges, driving innovation, and upholding robust corporate governance.

Looking ahead, the HKICPA will continue to promote accounting as international business language through multifaceted international collaborations. This includes deepening our partnership with IFAC and organizing further international conferences and professional exchanges, while enriching a suite of professional development resources. The HKICPA remains committed to fostering knowledge exchange between Hong Kong's PAIB community and their global counterparts, with a strategic focus on empowering members with future-ready skills. By providing comprehensive support to PAIBs, the HKICPA aims to assist finance leaders in embracing innovation and strengthening organizational resilience.Hashtag: #HKICPA #IFAC #PAIBs

https://www.hkicpa.org.hk/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/hong-kong-institute-of-certified-professional-accountants/
https://www.facebook.com/hkicpa.official
https://www.instagram.com/hkicpa.official/

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants

The Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants ("HKICPA") is the statutory body established by the Professional Accountants Ordinance responsible for the registration for certified public accountants (CPAs), professional training and development of CPAs in Hong Kong. The Institute is also a standard setter of the local accounting industry. The Institute has over 47,000 members and about 12,000 registered students.

Our Qualification Programme assures the quality of entry into the profession, and we promulgate financial reporting, auditing, ethical and sustainability disclosure standards that safeguard Hong Kong's leadership as an international financial centre.

The CPA designation is a top qualification recognised globally. The Institute is a member of and actively contributes to the work of the Global Accounting Alliance and International Federation of Accountants.

Thailand Reaffirms Position as Host of Global Kickboxing, Concludes 2nd Thailand Kickboxing World Cup and Launches KATPRO Professional League

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 06:43:24 +0200

BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - Thailand successfully hosted the 2nd Thailand Kickboxing World Cup from April 9-11, 2026, at the Thai-Japanese Youth Center (Wes Arena 1) in Bangkok, drawing more than 1,500 athletes and officials from 32 countries.

The event was organized by the Kickboxing Association of Thailand (KAT) in partnership with the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration, and the World Association of Kickboxing Organizations (WAKO). Conducted under international standards, the tournament highlighted Thailand's growing capability to host large-scale global sporting events.

Over three days of competition, athletes competed across multiple weight divisions and disciplines under WAKO rules, providing a platform for international competition and athlete development. The event also enabled Thai athletes to compete alongside leading international fighters, reflecting the continued progress of the sport at the national level.

Taweedech Thong-on, Director of the Events Division at the Tourism Authority of Thailand, said Thailand's selection as host for a second consecutive year reflects international confidence in the country's event management capabilities. He added that the tournament contributes to raising the global profile of kickboxing in Thailand, while supporting youth athlete development and promoting sports tourism through international media exposure.

Phai Likk, President of the Kickboxing Association of Thailand, said the success of the tournament represents an important step in elevating Thai kickboxing on the international stage. He noted that beyond competition, the event reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen the sport's development system, from grassroots participation to elite performance, while reinforcing Thailand's role in the global kickboxing landscape.

Building on the success of the World Cup, the Kickboxing Association of Thailand also launched KATPRO PROFESSIONAL KICKBOXING, the country's first structured professional kickboxing league, on April 11 at the same venue.

The inaugural event featured seven bouts with fighters from more than 10 countries and was conducted in line with international professional standards, including official weigh-ins and pre-fight face-offs.

KATPRO PROFESSIONAL KICKBOXING represents a key milestone in the development of a structured professional kickboxing league in Thailand, integrating sport and entertainment within a unified framework. The platform aims to elevate competition standards, event management, and the commercial value of the sport, while creating new professional pathways for Thai athletes and strengthening connections to international competition.

The successful staging of both events not only reflects Thailand's readiness to serve as a hub for global kickboxing competitions, but also underscores a clear development trajectory for the sport-from grassroots and amateur levels toward a more defined professional system.

Hashtag: #ThailandKickboxingWorldCup

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About the Kickboxing Association of Thailand (KAT)

The Kickboxing Association of Thailand is the national governing body for kickboxing in Thailand and a member of the World Association of Kickboxing Organizations (WAKO). KAT oversees athlete development, national-team selection, and the organization of domestic and international competitions, including the Thailand Kickboxing World Cup and the KATPRO Professional Kickboxing league.

Tradewind Finance Provides USD 2.5 Million Non-Recourse Export Factoring Facility to Vietnamese Cable Exporter

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 06:43:22 +0200

Receivables financing facility enables competitive open account terms and supports international growth

SHANGHAI, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - Tradewind Finance has provided a USD 2.5 million non-recourse export factoring facility to a cable manufacturer based in Vietnam. The facility, structured by Tradewind's Shanghai office, converts export receivables into immediate liquidity and provides credit protection on buyers in the United States and Australia.

With this structure in place, the exporter maintains 90-day open account terms for its international buyers without placing pressure on working capital.

How Longer Payment Terms Strained a Manufacturer's Liquidity

The client is a cable manufacturer with over 30 years of operating history in Vietnam. For most of that period, the company relied on advance payments and letters of credit to manage its export transactions.

As competition in global cable supply increased, buyers began requiring open account terms as a condition of continued business. The exporter transitioned accordingly, but the shift created a significant gap between production costs and the moment of payment collection.

The company had export credit insurance in place, which provided partial protection against buyer default. However, the residual risk exposure of 10 to 20 percent remained uncovered, and the insurance did not address the working capital shortfall that came with extended payment cycles. Despite a strong order book and established buyer relationships, the exporter's cash position was under pressure.

How the Facility Works: Converting Receivables into Working Capital

Tradewind structured a non-recourse export factoring facility aligned with the client's trade flows to the United States and Australia. The facility operates as follows:

Advance funding: Tradewind advances up to 90 percent of each invoice value shortly after shipment, converting receivables into available cash.
Credit protection: Because the facility is non-recourse, Tradewind assumes the buyer credit risk. By leveraging this structure, the exporter benefits from 100% credit protection against buyer default or insolvency.
Collections management: Tradewind manages the receivables administration and collection process, reducing the operational burden on the exporter's finance team.

This structure replaces the partial protection previously offered by export credit insurance with a more comprehensive solution that covers both the financing gap and the full buyer credit risk on approved receivables.

What This Means for the Exporter

With the facility in place, the exporter can offer 90-day payment terms to its buyers without absorbing the cash flow impact internally. Production cycles are no longer constrained by the timing of buyer payments, and the company has a predictable source of liquidity tied directly to its shipment activity.

The non-recourse structure also removes a layer of financial uncertainty. Rather than relying on insurance with residual exposure, the exporter now operates with full credit coverage on approved buyers through Tradewind's facility.

Why Tradewind Was Selected

Tradewind was selected for its ability to structure receivables financing solutions for cross-border trade flows involving multiple buyer markets. Key factors in the decision included:

Over 25 years of experience in international trade finance, with particular depth in export factoring across Asia, the Americas, and Europe
Local structuring capability through Tradewind's Shanghai office, with direct knowledge of Vietnamese export markets
A financing structure tailored to the client's specific trade corridors and buyer payment terms
Consistent execution and clear communication throughout the onboarding process

A Facility Built Around the Client's Trade Flows

"This facility gives the client a reliable source of working capital tied directly to its export activity," said Chris Chang, Regional Commercial Director, Far East at Tradewind Shanghai. "By structuring the solution around their specific trade flows to the United States and Australia, we were able to address both the financing gap and the credit risk exposure in a single facility."

Facing Similar Pressure from Extended Buyer Payment Terms?

Tradewind structures receivables financing solutions for exporters managing cash flow across international trade corridors. Whether you are dealing with longer payment cycles, buyer credit risk, or the operational complexity of cross-border collections, we can help you find the right structure for your situation.

Contact us at www.tradewindfinance.com to discuss how a tailored trade finance solution can support your export business.Hashtag: #Tradewind #TradewindFinance #Cable #Vietnam #Factoring #Manufacturing

https://tradewindfinance.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/tradewindcn/
Wechat: 德益世国际保理

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Tradewind Finance

Founded in 2000, Tradewind Finance is a global trade finance company specialising in cross-border receivables financing, export factoring, supply chain finance, and credit protection. Tradewind maintains a network of offices across Bangladesh, Bulgaria, China, Hong Kong SAR, Hungary, India, Pakistan, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States, alongside its headquarters in Germany. By combining financing, credit protection, and collections into a single integrated solution, Tradewind helps exporters and importers manage working capital, reduce risk, and grow their international trade with confidence.

China's Leading Secondhand Platform "Zhuanzhuan" Lands in Hong Kong as OASES Announces Sixth Batch of Strategic Enterprises

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 05:23:14 +0200

Circular Economy Giant Eyes Global Market, Launches International Headquarters in the City

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - The Office for Attracting Strategic Enterprises (OASES) held a signing ceremony today to welcome a new batch of strategic enterprises establishing or expanding their operations in Hong Kong. Zhuanzhuan Group ("Zhuanzhuan" or the "Group"), China's leading circular economy consumer company, is pleased to announce its official signing as a strategic enterprise partner of the HKSAR Government. The Group will establish its international headquarters in Hong Kong as a strategic hub for global market expansion, extending its second-hand goods trading platform services to overseas markets. Zhuanzhuan plans to introduce its "AI Valuation System" and "Official Inspection & Authentication AI Quality Control" technologies to Hong Kong, while also establishing a research and development (R&D) center. This move is expected to foster mutually beneficial partnerships with Hong Kong across various fields, including the digital economy and green industries.

Zhuanzhuan Group signs as a strategic enterprise partner in the 6th batch of the OASES

Huang Wei, Founder and CEO of Zhuanzhuan, stated: "The Group has been expanding its business presence in Hong Kong since 2017. Seizing this opportunity to collaborate with the HKSAR Government to establish our international business headquarters here marks a major strategic milestone in Zhuanzhuan's global expansion, and we are incredibly thrilled. Hong Kong possesses the unique advantage of serving as the hub connecting the domestic and global markets, coupled with a mature capital market and an open business environment. This aligns closely with Zhuanzhuan's international strategy, making Hong Kong our ideal base for international expansion."

As a top-tier secondhand trading platform in China, Zhuanzhuan has experienced rapid growth since its establishment in 2015. It owns multiple renowned secondhand brands, including Zhuanzhuan, Zhaolianji, and Plum. With China's second-hand circular economy sector attracting significant attention from the capital market, Zhuanzhuan stands out with its pioneering "Tech-driven Official Inspection & Authentication" service for second-hand quality checks, successfully earning platform users' trust. The Group has secured support from notable enterprises and investors such as Tencent, Xiaomi, and 58 Group, achieving a valuation exceeding US$3 billion (approximately HK$23.4 billion) in its latest funding round. Last year, its total revenue surpassed RMB 20 billion, with over 400 million registered users and 50 million monthly active users.

Differentiating itself from the traditional C2C model represented by companies like Carousell and Xianyu, Zhuanzhuan utilizes a mature C2B2C business model to provide specialized platform services centered on "Platform Intermediation, Professional Authentication, and Quality Assurance". Its pioneering "Tech-driven Official Inspection & Authentication" service conducts comprehensive and rigorous testing on secondhand goods, providing exclusive quality inspection reports for public display. The vast majority of officially verified products enjoy value-added services such as a 7-day unconditional returns, a one-year platform warranty, and free shipping within mainland China. Through standardized quality control and after-sales guarantees-implementing strategies such as "inspect before shipping," "return if unsatisfied," and "compensation for inspection errors"-Zhuanzhuan delivers a premium "what you see is what you get" experience for consumers.

Technology-driven innovation is the core engine keeping Zhuanzhuan at the forefront of the industry. The company established a dedicated AI division last year, planning to invest RMB 2 billion over three years in R&D of AI quality inspection, intelligent matching, and other tools. Launched earlier this year, the "AI Photo Authentication" has been extensively applied in luxury goods authentication. Based on a massive database of authentic product images and deep learning algorithms, the system dramatically reduces the traditional 15-minute manual authentication process to "instant authentication", delivering results in as fast as 1 second-a nearly 900-fold increase in efficiency. Furthermore, in the authentication of core bag categories, it has achieved an ultra-high accuracy rate with an error rate below 0.01% (since launch, over 10,000 LV bags verified with only one error), completely breaking through the inconsistent standards and efficiency bottlenecks in traditional non-standardized goods trading and manual authentication.

Huang Wei further noted that as an international financial center and innovation technology hub, Hong Kong provides Zhuanzhuan with an international gateway and cross-border resource integration platform. Zhuanzhuan will leverage Hong Kong to export its digitalized "technology + service" model, validated in the mainland market, to global markets including Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and North America. Simultaneously, it will bring its mature C2B2C e-commerce model and advanced AI technology applications to Hong Kong, supporting the city's smart city development. The establishment and operation of Zhuanzhuan's international business headquarters are expected to strengthen Hong Kong's role as a digital economy and cross-border e-commerce hub while promoting the development of related digital technologies and service trade. The Group looks forward to contributing to Hong Kong's green innovation and technology ecosystem and jointly promoting China's second-hand circular economy onto the world stage.

Hashtag: #Zhuanzhuan #CircularEconomy #SecondhandPlatform

https://www.zhuanzhuan.com

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Zhuanzhuan

Founded in 2015, Zhuanzhuan Group is China's leading circular economy consumer company, operating multiple secondhand e-commerce brands including Zhuanzhuan, Zhaolianji, Caihuoxia, Xiakehui, and Plum. The business covers over 100 categories of secondhand goods including mobile phones, 3C electronics, luxury goods, books, and collectibles. With a nationwide network of over 1,100 chain stores and a door-to-door recycling team of more than 3,000 personnel, the company is dedicated to solving trust issues in non-standardized goods trading through AI quality inspection technology and an innovative C2B2C business model, bringing consumers high-quality, cost-effective second-hand goods.

As the leading enterprise in China's fulfillment-based secondhand trading platforms, Zhuanzhuan recorded over 400 million registered users and 50 million monthly active users last year. With "technology-driven + platform service" as its core engine, Zhuanzhuan has established a dedicated AI division, pioneered the "Tech-driven Official Inspection & Authentication" second-hand quality check service in the country, and independently developed core technology products such as the AI Valuation System and AI Photo Inspection. It has built industry-leading AI authentication capabilities in the luxury goods industry, providing highly accurate authenticity inspection in seconds for globally renowned luxury brand handbags, continuously leading China's second-hand trading market towards standardization and digitalization.

Correcting and Replacing: Huawei Cloud Introduces Token Service in Asia Pacific

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 04:43:08 +0200

JAKARTA, INDONESIA - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - Huawei Cloud AI Boost Day, themed "Agentic AI Practice", was successfully held in Jakarta. At the event, Huawei Cloud announced the official launch of its MaaS service in Asia Pacific.

Following the rollout of AI Compute Service in Hong Kong (China), Thailand, Indonesia, and Singapore in 2025, Huawei Cloud MaaS (Model-as-a-Service) is now available, leveraging Huawei's in-house acceleration engine to support mainstream models and provide customers with stable and high-quality token services.

Huawei Cloud continues to strengthen its collaboration with high-quality open-source models in the industry. Six models from three categories-GLM, DeepSeek, and Qwen-are the first to be supported by MaaS. These models are designed for two major application scenarios: intelligent Q&A and AI coding. They offer one-click access and out-of-the-box model hosting services, covering the entire lifecycle of model management from deployment to inference, fine-tuning, and evaluation. With elastic compute and pay-per-use billing, enterprises and developers can quickly integrate AI capabilities into their service systems without having to worry about the underlying infrastructure. This makes AI accessible to everyone.

Notably, this release includes support for the latest GLM-5 model. GLM-5 has attained state-of-the-art (SOTA) performance in coding and agent capabilities, making it an ideal general-purpose agent foundation for complex system engineering and long-text agent tasks in enterprise environments.

Huawei Cloud's long-term strategic investment in AI has resulted in a comprehensive suite of AI solutions, including CloudMatrix AI Infra, MaaS, ModelArts (a model training and inference platform), CodeArts (a coding agent), AgentArts (an agent platform), and DataArts (a data agent).

CodeArts and AgentArts will be launched outside the Chinese mainland in the second half of 2026.

Huawei Cloud has established an optimized cloud infrastructure network in the Asia Pacific region. This network comprises five Regions and 18 availability zones (AZs) located in Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong (China), Indonesia, and the Philippines, ensuring a 50 ms access latency. Additionally, in Malaysia, Huawei Cloud and partners have jointly built a local cloud.

Huawei Cloud AI Compute Service have helped many Asia Pacific customers elevate their cloud journey from simply migrating to the cloud to using AI well. They have benefited from improved productivity and better adaptation to changing environments.

iFLYTEK, a leading intelligent voice and AI company, selected Singapore as the first destination for its global expansion strategy in 2023, naturally extending its collaboration with Huawei Cloud from China to a global scale. Huawei Cloud AI Compute Service helped iFLYTEK quickly deploy their large language model training resources within two weeks. The training remained stable for 60 days without interruption, ensuring zero faults during the release of major versions.

Green and Smart Mobility (GSM), an emerging green mobility platform, chose Huawei Cloud to reduce costs, enhance efficiency, and achieve multi-cloud flexibility. GSM has developed a comprehensive fleet management platform using AI and IoT. By utilizing Huawei Cloud IoTDA and ModelArts AI technologies, GSM analyzes violations and generates risk alerts to ensure driver and passenger safety, thereby fulfilling its mission of promoting green and safe transportation.

Huawei Cloud will continue to invest in AI innovation and provide a secure, stable, and intelligent cloud foundation to help enterprises in Asia Pacific achieve sustainable business growth in the AI era.

Hashtag: #HuaweiCloud #AI #TokenService

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Swiss-Belhotel International Unveils Mobile App, Advancing its Integrated Digital Ecosystem

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 04:03:02 +0200

JAKARTA, INDONESIA - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - Swiss-Belhotel International, has announced the launch of its Mobile App, marking a major milestone in the Group's comprehensive digital transformation journey. Designed to bring convenience, value, and connectivity into a single platform, the app reflects Swiss-Belhotel International's continued commitment to enhancing the guest experience through smart, integrated technology.

Swiss-Belhotel International Mobile App

The launch of the Swiss-Belhotel International Mobile App completes a strategic technology upgrade initiated last year, which included the implementation of a new booking engine, the transition to an enhanced website, and the introduction of an advanced Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system. With the addition of the mobile app, Swiss-Belhotel International now offers a fully connected digital ecosystem, ensuring a seamless journey from discovery to booking and beyond.

Commenting on the launch, Matthew Faull, Executive Director and Senior Vice President - Information Technology, E-commerce and Distribution, said: "The launch of the Swiss-Belhotel International Mobile App represents the completion of a carefully structured digital transformation programme. By aligning our booking engine, website, CRM and now mobile platform into one connected ecosystem, we are able to deliver a more efficient, responsive and guest-centric experience. This is not simply about technology adoption, but about creating meaningful value through integration."

Adding to this, Priyanka Kapoor, Group Director - Sales, Marketing, Branding and Communications, said: "At the heart of this launch is our commitment to our loyal guests. The Swiss-Belhotel International Mobile App allows us to offer greater value, more personalised engagement, and exclusive member benefits. It reinforces our focus on direct relationships with our guests, ensuring they receive the best rates, the best privileges, and a seamless brand experience."

Built around the principle of 'One App, Many Benefits,' the Swiss-Belhotel International Mobile App enables guests to book directly at the best available rates while unlocking exclusive member privileges. Users can easily sign up or log in to access personalised offers, ensuring that loyal guests are consistently recognised and rewarded.

More than a booking tool, the app is designed to simplify the entire travel journey, offering a streamlined, intuitive interface that enhances both convenience and engagement. By integrating its core digital platforms into a single environment, Swiss-Belhotel International strengthens its ability to deliver a consistent and elevated guest experience across all touchpoints.

As digital expectations continue to evolve, Swiss-Belhotel International remains focused on investing in technologies that enhance accessibility, strengthen guest relationships, and support long-term growth. The Swiss-Belhotel International Mobile App stands as a key step in this direction - bringing together innovation, efficiency, and guest-centricity within a single, unified platform.

Hashtag: #SwissBelhotelInternational #HospitalityTechnology #Hospitality

https://www.swiss-belhotel.com/
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The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Swiss-Belhotel International

Swiss-Belhotel International operates in 20 countries, managing 165+* hotels, resorts, and projects across New Zealand, Australia, Indonesia, Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Europe, with regional offices in Hong Kong, New Zealand, Australia, China, Indonesia, UAE, the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand. Committed to delivering world-class hospitality, the group also offers the Swiss-Belexecutive Card (SBEC), a loyalty program providing many benefits, discounts from 10% to 35% on rooms, dining, and other services, plus priority check-in, complimentary upgrades, and late check-out. No collecting points, no waiting for redemption, with the free-to-join Green Global tier, members can enjoy instant discounts from their first stay! Book stays and access special offers tailored for SBI guests and SBEC members through the Swiss-Belhotel International App - available in App Store and Google Play Store. Stay connected with us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok for the latest updates and exclusive benefits. Visit swiss-belhotel.com for more information.

*Numbers may fluctuate

Eight Months of Care: Olymptrade Supports Elderly Communities

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 04:03:01 +0200

JAKARTA, INDONESIA - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - Over the past eight months, Olymptrade, in partnership with the YUM Community Center, has supported elderly residents in local communities through a series of regular initiatives focused on everyday needs and health support.

From September 2025 to April 2026, the program combined consistent distributions with practical assistance. During this time, more than 1,700 food boxes were delivered, helping ensure access to essential nutrition for elderly residents.

The initiative also included healthcare support. Around 300 people received vision checks, with 152 of them receiving eyeglasses based on the results. In addition, approximately 300 people received medicines each month, supporting the management of common health conditions.

Additional assistance included the distribution of first aid kits, hygiene kits, and prepared meals, helping cover both daily needs and immediate care.

Members of the Olymptrade community also took part in the initiative, joining two distribution days to help with the process and spend time with elderly residents.

The eight-month program marks an important milestone in the partnership, but not its conclusion. Olymptrade plans to continue supporting local communities through similar initiatives, guided by a simple principle: Care that counts.

Hashtag: #Olymptrade

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Paymentology and Change Financial join forces to fast-track next-generation payments in Australia

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 04:03:00 +0200

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - Paymentology, the leading global issuer-processor, today announced a strategic partnership with Change Financial to accelerate payment method adoption and fintech growth across Australia.

The collaboration combines Paymentology's cloud-first processing platform with Change Financial's local BIN sponsorship, regulatory expertise and in-market presence - enabling fintechs, digital banks and programme managers to launch and scale debit, credit and prepaid programmes more efficiently in the Australian market.

Change Financial is a Mastercard Principal Issuer in Australia, providing local scheme connectivity and compliance support. Together with Paymentology's real-time, multi-cloud processing infrastructure, the partnership creates a streamlined pathway for fintechs looking to enter or expand in the country.

Australia represents one of the world's most advanced digital payments markets. The national payments market was valued at USD 849.1 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 1.35 trillion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 5.09% between 2026 and 2034. Cards and mobile wallets now sit at the centre of everyday transactions, as digital adoption continues to accelerate. Australians made approximately AUD 160 billion in mobile wallet payments in the past year alone, with billions of transactions recorded annually, highlighting strong demand for digital-first, contactless and mobile-enabled payment experiences.

Minh Ha Truong, Head of Growth Asia Pacific at Paymentology commented: "Australia is one of the most sophisticated payments ecosystems globally, with strong consumer adoption of digital, contactless and mobile-first experiences. By partnering with Change Financial, we're combining next-generation issuing infrastructure with trusted local BIN sponsorship and expertise, unlocking faster payment method adoption for fintechs and helping them scale confidently in the Australian market."

Change Financial brings deep experience supporting fintechs and financial institutions through local sponsorship, scheme relationships and programme enablement.

Jennifer Mateer, Chief Commercial Officer at Change Financial added: "We collaborate closely with fintechs and programme managers every day to launch innovative payment solutions with speed and confidence. Our partnership with Paymentology combines our local market expertise with global-scale issuing infrastructure, enabling innovators to accelerate time to market and deliver compelling card payment experiences to Australian consumers and businesses."

Hashtag: #Paymentology #Fintech

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Paymentology

Paymentology is the leading next-generation issuer processor, empowering fintechs, digital banks and retail banks to effortlessly launch and manage innovative payment solutions on a global scale. The company drives greater customer choice and value through easy-to-use, integrated platforms and services that help clients to disrupt the status quo, accelerate time to market, and achieve growth.

With a superior multi-cloud platform offering a vast global footprint, and enhanced real-time data, Paymentology distinguishes itself as a leader in the payments industry. Its team of payments experts, with deep local market knowledge, operates across 50 countries and 14 time zones, providing 24/7 support. Paymentology is deeply committed to expanding financial inclusion globally, changing lives and positively impacting the communities in which it operates.

For more information, visit https://www.Paymentology.com.

Asian Machine Tool Online Exhibition 2026: Bridging Global Buyers and Asian Manufacturing Excellence

Tue, 21 Apr 2026 04:02:59 +0200

TAIPEI, TAIWAN - Media OutReach Newswire - 21 April 2026 - The Asian Machine Tool Online Exhibition 2026 (AMTOE 2026) officially launches today, providing a comprehensive B2B sourcing platform that connects global buyers with verified Asian suppliers across the machine tool and manufacturing industry. Running through October 31, 2026, the exhibition adopts a hybrid online and offline integration model, offering nearly six months of continuous sourcing opportunities and business engagement for international buyers and industry partners.

Co-organized by AsianNet and TradeAsia (www.e-tradeasia.com), AMTOE 2026 is designed to strengthen connections between Asian manufacturers and global importers and exporters, while optimizing cross-border procurement processes, improving supply-demand matching efficiency, and enabling enterprises to expand into international markets more effectively.

Since its debut in 2022, the exhibition has consistently attracted high-quality international buyers and demonstrated strong performance in precise matchmaking, inquiry conversion, and order generation, establishing itself as one of Asia's most representative online B2B trade exhibitions.

Strengthening Global Connectivity Through Exhibition Integration

AMTOE 2026 is undergoing a significant scale expansion and is being held in synergy with several leading international machine tool exhibitions, including CIMES, IMTS, and JIMTOF (Japan International Machine Tool Fair). By aligning with major global exhibition schedules and integrating cross-platform resources, the exhibition effectively consolidates international buyer traffic.

This integrated approach enables procurement professionals to efficiently evaluate suppliers, compare products, and make sourcing decisions, significantly shortening decision-making cycles while improving procurement accuracy.

Built around high-efficiency matchmaking, targeted traffic distribution, and conversion-driven outcomes, the exhibition enhances exhibitors' global exposure and inquiry quality while supporting sustained market expansion and business growth.

Showcasing Leading Asian Manufacturers and Industrial Strength

AMTOE 2026 presents a strong lineup of leading Asian manufacturers in the machine tool and industrial sector, showcasing the region's advanced manufacturing capabilities, technological innovation, and integrated industrial strength. Participating companies include NOVELTEK INDUSTRIAL MANUFACTURING, COIN ROKAKI ENTERPRISE, YEE YOUNG INDUSTRIAL, CHUEN CHARNG, KINGDOM MACHINERY, CHU-SHIANG INDUSTRIAL, OAV EQUIPMENT & TOOLS and Yu-Sheng Elecirical Enterprises.

The exhibition presents a comprehensive range of product categories across the machine tool and manufacturing industry, including Machine Tools, Metalworking Machinery, Industrial Laser Equipment, Forming & Molding Machinery, and Measuring & Testing Equipment. It also extends to essential industrial components and supporting systems such as General Mechanical Components, Bearings, Pneumatic Components, Industrial Auxiliary Equipment, Material Handling Equipment, and General Industrial Equipment, forming a complete and interconnected industrial supply chain ecosystem.

Through this integrated product structure, the exhibition enables global buyers to efficiently access diversified sourcing options, enhance procurement efficiency, and connect with a wide spectrum of qualified suppliers.

Advanced Digital Infrastructure for Smarter Global Sourcing

AMTOE 2026 features an advanced digital exhibition environment built on full integration with the TradeAsia platform. The exhibition includes dedicated exhibitor pages, digital product catalogs, and a unified online interface, significantly improving supplier visibility and information accessibility.

A structured business matching mechanism allows buyers to quickly identify suitable suppliers based on specific procurement needs. International buyers can browse product information, evaluate suppliers, and submit inquiries at any time, accelerating the overall sourcing and decision-making process.

By combining continuous online accessibility with intelligent matching functions, the exhibition removes time and geographical limitations, delivering a highly efficient, cost-effective, and results-driven B2B sourcing experience.

Start Sourcing Now

Explore suppliers, discover products, and send inquiries directly through the official exhibition platform:
https://www.etradeasia.com/online-show/45/Asian-Machine-Tool-Online-Exhibition-2026.html

Hashtag: #TradeAsia

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About TradeAsia

TradeAsia (www.e-tradeasia.com) is a leading international B2B trade platform that connects global buyers and suppliers through conversion-oriented business matching. With millions of members, over 600,000 suppliers, and continuously updated product listings, TradeAsia operates a highly active global sourcing ecosystem.

In addition to its online infrastructure, TradeAsia collaborates with hundreds of trade associations and exhibition organizers worldwide, integrating online exposure with offline promotional channels to expand international visibility and strengthen cross-border marketing effectiveness.

Election winner moving into opposition

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 18:40:07 +0200

Slovenia's outgoing Prime Minister Robert Golob has indicated his party is moving into opposition after it transpired he will not be able to form a government despite his centre-left Freedom Movement party narrowly winning the 22 March general election.

Golob said his party was "looking forward to being in the opposition" after President Nataša Pirc Musar hosted the first round of consultations with the parliamentary factions on 20 April in a bid to gauge support for a prime minister-designate.

Summing up the discussions, Pirc Musar said no candidate had yet emerged that would enjoy sufficient support in parliament for her to give him the mandate to form a government. She will resume the consultations.

After a bloc of right-leaning parties backed Zoran Stevanović of the anti-establishment Truth party for National Assembly president at the maiden session on 10 April, this was widely seen as having created momentum for a fourth government of Janez Janša, whose right-wing Democratic Party (SDS) came second in the election.

However, coming out of the talks with the president, Janša said his party was not in the process of forming a government, but remained equally prepared to either form a coalition, serve in the opposition, or face a snap election.

"For us, all three options are good, but which options are good for Slovenia is another matter," said the 67-year-old seasoned politician, who has been present on the Slovenian political scene since independence, serving as defence minister at the time and then three times as prime minister.

Janša biding his time as Golob-led talks collapse

The 22 March general election produced a fragmented legislature with no clear path to a majority. Golob was the first to start tentative coalition talks, but these collapsed as the Democrats, the party of former prominent SDS member Anže Logar, announced their withdrawal on 17 April.

The reason given by Logar was that Golob's party attempted to "force" members and MPs of the Democrats into signing the coalition agreement. This followed media reports that Freedom Movement was seeking to broaden talks with the Democrats to other party members after it got no response to Golob's draft coalition agreement.

The SDS has not been communicating on its own efforts save for some of its MPs expressing optimism about the prospect of a fourth Janša-led government. However, media have reported that the party had offered five ministries to the conservative alliance led by New Slovenia (NSi), and three to Logar's Democrats, while designating eight departments for itself.

While these three parties have a combined 43 seats in the 90-member National Assembly, Truth, which has five, is to serve as "constructive opposition", supporting the centre-right government, rather than being part of it, according to media reports.

Barbs hurled over the aisle

Announcing he was abandoning his coalition efforts, Golob branded the emerging centre-right alliance a "coalition of fraudsters" who "will not last long".

The reference was to Logar's campaigning on the promise to end the right-left divide in the country and Stevanović's signing a notarised pledge in October 2021 during the previous Janša government, that his party would not cooperate with the SDS or Janša.

Golob's coalition partners in the outgoing government, the Social Democrats (SD) and the Left, likewise acknowledged a new Janša-led government was likely. SD leader Matjaž Han commented it was pointless some were feigning ignorance about potential alliances.

Meanwhile, Janša issued pointed criticism at Golob in response to his saying he was "looking forward" to being in the opposition. "After all this chaos, holes in public finances, and record taxes, I believe he is glad someone else will be tasked with fixing it," he said.

He argued the government's draft report to the European Commission was a formal admission of uncontrolled public spending.

Janša likened Golob's situation to that of current Ljubljana Mayor Zoran Janković, who failed to form a government after winning the 2011 election. Janša formed the government instead in early 2012 but his own coalition collapsed after only a year in office.

He suggested the current post-election deadlock highlights the need for electoral reform, potentially combining proportional and majoritarian voting systems.

Speculation about an alternative candidate

The third largest faction in parliament, the conservative alliance led by the NSi has been declining to take part in Golob-led talks all along. After talks with the president, it reasserted its commitment to forging a centre-right coalition.

The Democrats said they would continue talks with parties who see them as a serious partner, while Truth said they as well as the bloc comprising them, the Democrats and the NSi, found their greatest policy alignment was with the SDS. But they also said that talks on a PM-designate were still ongoing.

According to unofficial information, the idea of a candidate for prime minister who does not come from the largest two parties has been floated during the discussions hosted by the president. Tipped as potential candidates are NSi leader Jernej Vrtovec and Han of the SD.

The MPs representing the Italian and Hungarian minorities would not present their positions and they as a rule do not act as a king-maker.

The president has until 10 May to nominate a PM-designate, but she can also choose not to. If a candidate is nominated, an absolute majority of 46 votes is required to elect the prime minister.

If no candidate is nominated or they do not get endorsed, deputy groups of at least ten MPs can then nominate a candidate along with the president. If this second round fails to produce a prime minister, the candidate can get elected by a simple majority in a third round. If that fails too, the president dissolves the National Assembly and calls a fresh election.

China Unicom and Huawei Elevate Beijing E-Town Race-Day Experiences with 5G-A GigaUplink

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 13:21:14 +0200

BEIJING, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - China Unicom and Huawei capped off a series of successful 5G-A GigaUplink deployments by guaranteeing the premium connectivity at the Beijing E-Town Half-Marathon and Humanoid Robot Half-Marathon, where human and robot runners competed alongside through the E-Town in Daxing District. This marks the two companies' latest landmark showcase for sports events, combining 5G-A and AI to provide fast uplink with huge capacity and low latency for event organization and media services, digital engagement, and humanoid participation.

China Unicom 5G-A empowering robots to sprint across the finish line

China Unicom Delivered a Masterclass in Connected Marathon Events

Marathon events typically feature high-density crowds with an extensive demand for uploads. China Unicom and Huawei turned to 5G-A 3CC on 3.5 GHz and 2.1 GHz for the event, ensuring an uplink fulfillment at 20 Mbps surpassing 99.6%, along with a peak speed of field-tested 677 Mbps. This impressive uplink performance provided consistent and reliable support for 4K/8K broadcasting and real-time collection and editing while also enabling fans to share and stream smoothly.

Such unrivalled experience is underpinned not only by high-quality networks but also flexible operations. China Unicom and Huawei used intelligent base stations to build 5G-A intelligent, elastic channels for the event. This facilitated differentiated scheduling for livestreaming, voice and video calling, and short videos to ensure smooth experiences for fans even at heavy-traffic moments.

China Unicom 5G-A GigaUplink networks integral to the success of E-Town Humanoid Robot Half-Marathon

5G-A GigaUplink Takes Embodied AI to New Heights

In a global first, the E-Town half-marathon features a pioneering format that sees human and robot runners compete simultaneously. The humanoid robots were divided into an autonomous navigation group and a remote-control group, running on the same course and evaluated using mixed timing methods. Each humanoid robot requires approximately 10 Mbps uplink for video uploads, environment sensing, gait control, and autonomous navigation. Dedicated uplink slices were reserved to ensure a positioning accuracy of up to sub-decimeter level and an average end-to-end latency of less than 30 ms throughout the racing course, which provided strong support for the video uploads, obstacle avoidance, cornering, and sprinting of humanoid robots. While offering technical upgrades to sports events, this promoted the adoption of humanoid robots on a large scale.

Qin Yang, Deputy General Manager of China Unicom in Beijing spoke proudly of the excellent connections his company provided for the 2025 World Humanoid Robot Games as a global strategic partner and the 2026 Beijing E-Town Half-Marathon event as the exclusive official communications sponsor. "5G-A and AI are essential digital infrastructure, enabling us to bring embodied AI to sports. Given the new dynamics of AI development, we will double down on our priorities over connectivity, computing power, services, and security to sharpen our competitive edges as a preferred telecom partner for intelligent sports and a core enabler for intelligent industry transformation. Moving forward, we will accelerate our innovation-driven push to strengthen our digital infrastructure and drive the high-quality growth of embodied AI in China and beyond."

Samuel Chen, Vice President of Huawei's Wireless Network Business Marketing, said this humanoid robot half-marathon offers a good example of deepening integration between mobile technology and embodied intelligence. "Beyond redefining connectivity for sports, it has shown us what intelligent production and life will look like in future. We are always dedicated to building excellent 5G-A networks together with operators based on user-centered innovation to ensure GigaUplink, low latency, and high reliability for differentiated mobile AI services. This will enable us to continuously drive the high-quality growth of the digital economy."
Hashtag: #Huawei #ChinaUnicom

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Flydubai extends suspension of Ljubljana flights

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 12:44:22 +0200

Flydubai has extended its suspension of flights to Ljubljana Jože Pučnik Airport to 20 May, while Lufthansa has suspended its service between Munich and Ljubljana until 1 June, the Ex-Yu Aviation portal has reported.

The United Arab Emirates carrier paused its four weekly flights between Dubai and Ljubljana in late March due to the war in the Middle East. It had initially planned to resume the service in late April or 1 May.

While prolonging its hiatus at Slovenia's primary airport, Flydubai is boosting frequencies of its flights to other capitals in the region, according to the Ex-Yu Aviation portal.

Meanwhile, as part of urgent cost-cutting measures, the German aviation group Lufthansa has announced the closure of its regional subsidiary, CityLine, a move that will directly impact the Ljubljana-Munich route. All flights on this sector have been suspended until 1 June.

HKU Launches School of Governance and Policy, Sets Stage for Global Dialogue on Pressing Challenges

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 12:41:09 +0200

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - The University of Hong Kong (HKU) announces the launch of the School of Governance and Policy (SGP), a new interdisciplinary hub dedicated to shaping the future of governance and public policy. To mark this milestone, SGP will host its inaugural week from 27 to 29 April 2026, convening global thought leaders, nobel laureate, former heads of state, and leading academics to confront the world's most urgent regional and transnational challenges.

Professor Xiang Zhang, President and Vice-Chancellor of HKU, stated, "The establishment of the School of Governance and Policy underscores HKU's dedication to cultivating visionary leaders and driving meaningful global cooperation. It also exemplifies the value of the humanities in the midst of the global technology leap. This Inaugural Week will serve as a dynamic platform where ideas meet action-bridging academic insight, policymaking, and real-world innovation."

Echoing this vision, Professor Kenneth Wong, Director of School of Governance and Policy and Kerry Group Professor in Public Policy, added, "In an era defined by disruption and interdependence, collaborative governance is not just important-it is essential. SGP's Inaugural Week embodies our mission to foster dialogue, advance research, and deliver impactful solutions that transcend borders."

The Inaugural Week will commence on 27 April with an Inaugural Ceremony featuring the official announcement of SGP and a keynote address by Professor James Robinson, 2024 Nobel Laureate in Economics. This will be followed by an exclusive panel, "Beyond Borders: Policy Innovation and Collaboration in a Multipolar World" with Professor Joseph Liow Chinyong, Dean and Wang Gungwu Professor in East Asian Affairs, Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore; Professor Lan Xue, Dean, Schwarzman College, Tsinghua University and Professor Carole Roan Gresenz, Dean, McCourt School of Public Policy, Georgetown University.

On the following day, the Global Leaders Series will welcome Dr Yukio Hatoyama, former Prime Minister of Japan, to explore "The Future of Sino-Japanese Relations Amid a Cracking World Order". Professor James Robinson will return for a second session examining "The Future of Nations: How Economic and Political Institutions Contribute to Growth and Progress".

The final day will feature Open Dialogues on Global Policy Challenges and Solutions, including sessions led by Professor Joseph Liow on "Southeast Asia Between the Superpowers: The Dilemma of Choice", and Professor Carole Roan Gresenz on "Cognitive Health, Household Financial Decision-Making & Intrahousehold Financial Spillovers". The week will conclude with a powerful address by Mr Phongthep Thepkanjana, former Deputy Prime Minister of Thailand, on "Transnational Scams and the Digital-Age Death Penalty Debate".

Designed to foster interdisciplinary collaboration and actionable insights, the Inaugural Week underscores SGP's commitment to advancing governance innovation and strengthening international cooperation in an increasingly complex global landscape.

For more information and to register, please visit: https://hku.au1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bxSKys1jr2yRzLM

About HKU School of Governance and Policy

HKU School of Governance and Policy (SGP) is jointly allocated to the Faculty of Social Sciences, the Faculty of Business and Economics, and the Faculty of Law. Bringing together the Asia Global Institute and the Centre on Contemporary China and the World under one umbrella, SGP is dedicated to advancing excellence in global governance and policy analysis, strategically positioned at the intersection of the public, non-profit, and private sectors. By uniting leading scholars, practitioners, and students, SGP addresses complex regional and global challenges through innovative, evidence-informed solutions.

Hashtag: #HKU

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

ESG Achievement Awards 2025/2026 Open for Applications, Championing Human Capital and ESG Excellence to Shape a Resilient Future

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 12:41:09 +0200

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - The Institute of ESG & Benchmark (IESGB) proudly announces the launch of the ESG Achievement Awards 2025/2026, marking another milestone in recognising outstanding achievements in environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices. Building on its established legacy, this year's Awards will spotlight organisations and individuals that are strengthening resilience and long-term competitiveness through people-centric ESG strategies, responsible leadership, and measurable impact. The Early Bird application period is open until 15 May 2026.

This year's ESG Achievement Awards are centred around the theme "Shaping a Resilient Future Through People and ESG," placing a strong emphasis on ESG education and human capital development. In today's fast-evolving landscape, organisations are increasingly recognising that sustainable success depends not only on strategy, but on equipping people with the right skills, capabilities, and mindset. This year, entrants are invited to showcase how they embed ESG into their culture, invest in talent development, and foster accountability and employee engagement in ESG across all levels of the organisation.

In addition to continuing to recognise holistic ESG excellence across environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and governance, the Awards introduce new award that reflect evolving market priorities. And the newly launched Outstanding Women Empowerment Awards will celebrate organisations that drive measurable progress in gender equality, workplace inclusion, and leadership representation.

Mr Paul Pong, Co-Founder of IESGB, highlighted the significance of this year's theme, stating, "As ESG continues to mature, we are seeing that resilience is built not only through strategy, but through people who understand how to turn ESG principles into action. This year's Awards are designed to recognise organisations that are investing in human capital, reinforcing ESG ownership, and embedding sustainability into the way they work every day."

Mr Vincent Pang, Chairman of the Jury Panel, shared his perspective, saying,"What truly distinguishes the strongest entries is not just ambition, but tangible evidence - measurable progress, genuine execution, and long-term impact. Under this year's theme 'Shaping a Resilient Future Through People and ESG,' we are especially looking for organisations that embed ESG into their culture, invest in human capital development and ESG education, and drive meaningful inclusion and women's empowerment."

The Awards will continue to honour excellence across a comprehensive range of categories, covering corporate ESG performance, innovative projects, sustainable vision, talent development, and individual leadership. With a distinguished and diverse jury panel comprising experts from academia, finance, corporate governance, and sustainability, submissions will be evaluated based on impact, innovation, transparency, and alignment with ESG principles. Winners of the ESG Achievement Awards 2025/2026 will be celebrated at the prestigious Awards Ceremony Luncheon, scheduled for September 2026. The Awards continue to serve as a leading platform for knowledge exchange, peer learning, and recognition of best practices that contribute to a more sustainable and resilient economy.

Award Categories

Category	Sub-Categories
1. ESG Benchmark Awards	1.1) Outstanding Performance in Environmental Responsibility 1.2) Outstanding Performance in Social Responsibility 1.3) Outstanding Performance in ESG Governance
2. Outstanding ESG Awards	2.1) Listed Company 2.2) Non-Listed Company 2.3) NGO /NPO
3. (New) Outstanding Women Empowerment Awards	3.1) Company /Organisation
4. Outstanding ESG Product and Service Awards	4.1) Company /Organisation
5. Outstanding Fund Manager's Choice Awards	5.1) Only applicable to entrants from Category 1 &2.1 (Listed Company).
6. Outstanding Sustainable Vision Awards	6.1) Company /Organisation
7. Outstanding ESG Innovative Project Awards	7.1) Company /Organisation
8. Outstanding ESG Talent Development Awards	8.1) Company /Organisation
9. ESG Elite Awards	9.1) Individual
10. Honorary Awards (By invitation only)	10.1) Company /Organisation 10.2) Individual 10.3) Outstanding Sustainability Dividend Awards

Key Dates (Subject to change)

Date	Key Milestone
20 April	Awards Launch & Open for Application
Early Bird: 15 May Standard: 15 June	Application Deadline
July	Judging Period
July	Presentations to the Jury Panel *Upon confirmation for applicants requiring presentation
August	Finalist Announcement
September	Award Ceremony Luncheon *Subject to venue availability

Jury Panel (in alphabetical order of last name)

Full Name	Post
Chairman of Jury Panel
Mr Vincent Pang	Managing Partner AVISTA Group
Vice Chairman of Jury Panel
Ms Ashley Khoo	Past President CFA Society Hong Kong
Jury Panel Members
Ms Fanny Chan	Chief Human Resources Officer CTF Life
Ms Mabel Chan	Veteran of mutual fund industry Co-host of Metro Finance Radio HK Accredited Mediator AALCO Sports AMed
Ms Lovinia Chiu	Founder, Chairman & CEO Medialink Group Limited (2230.HK)
Prof Rebecca Choy Yung	Founder & Chair Golden Age Foundation
Mr Roy Fan	Head of Sustainability, Climate Change and ESG Services SWCS Corporate Services Group (Hong Kong) Limited
Ms Loretta Fong	Sustainability Assurance Leader PwC Hong Kong
Ms Grace Kwok	Chairman and Executive Director Allied Sustainability and Environmental Consultants Group Limited
Ir Prof C.F. Lam	Organizing Committee Member Hong Kong Green Strategy Alliance
HON Robert Lee, JP	Legislative Council Member Functional Constituency - Financial Services
Ir Edmund K H Leung	Vice-President Hong Kong Institute of Director
Ms Nana Li	Head of Sustainability & Stewardship, Asia-Pacific, Director Impax Asset Management
Dr Kenny Tang	Chairman The Hong Kong Institute of Financial Analysts and Professional Commentators
Dr Aries Wong	Senior Lecturer, Department of Accountancy, Economics and Finance Associate Director of Centre for Sustainable Development Studies Hong Kong Baptist University
Mr Mike Wong	Chief Executive Officer The Chamber of Hong Kong Listed Companies
Ms Jessie Yu BBS, MH, JP	Chief Executive Hong Kong Single Parents Association

Hashtag: #IESGB

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

IESGB

The Institute of ESG & Benchmark (IESGB) is a non-profit organization founded in 2020, dedicated to advancing environmental, social, and governance (ESG) practices in Hong Kong and beyond. Through professional training, certification, and industry collaboration, IESGB promotes ESG education and fosters the development of a robust and sustainable ecosystem that drives long-term value and positive impact.

JustMarkets Announces Comprehensive Technology Ecosystem Upgrade for Gold Trading in 2026

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 12:21:07 +0200

HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - JustMarkets, a global financial brokerage platform, officially announces a major infrastructure update aimed at optimizing investment performance. In the context of a highly volatile 2026 gold market, JustMarkets focuses on providing technological solutions that help investors replace "instinctive reactions" with "professional resilience".

A Vision for Robust Infrastructure and Investment Discipline

JustMarkets identifies gold trading as a persistent marathon, not a sprint. To realize this vision, the firm has built a technological anchor that allows users to react in split seconds, completely eliminating technical "noise" that disrupts the decision-making process.

The JustMarkets infrastructure is designed to thoroughly resolve two major barriers: lagging pace and psychological fear. Through comprehensive digitalization, the platform helps users avoid the helplessness of waiting in long queues at physical gold shops with high buy-sell price spreads.

Breakthrough Technological Upgrades in the New Version

This update brings direct improvements to the operational and analytical processes of investors:

New Trade Screen: Redesigned to provide an even faster and smoother experience, ensuring orders are matched instantly and otimized to reduce slippage
Enhanced Insights Tab: Provides in-depth market analysis capabilities, helping investors make decisions based on understanding rather than FOMO (Fear of Missing Out).
Rebuilt Notification Center: Ensures investors stay updated in real-time with gold market fluctuations that change by the second.
Cost and Performance Optimization: Maintains ultra-low spreads, allowing investors to manage capital flexibly without being eroded by hidden fees.
Automated Risk Management: Integrates automated Stop Loss and Take Profit toolsets, helping to protect assets continuously without requiring users to monitor the screen 24/7.

Mastering The Markets Through Technology

The success of an investor in 2026 is not measured by the quantity of gold they possess, but by their courage and skill in mastering the game through smart tools. This infrastructure upgrade reaffirms JustMarkets' position as a reliable companion, helping users proactively create prosperity through technology.

Hashtag: #JustMarkets #trading

https://justmarkets.com/

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About JustMarkets

JustMarkets provides a professional trading ecosystem where technology plays a key role in removing psychological barriers for investors. With fast execution speeds and optimized costs, JustMarkets helps clients focus on their most important goal: making decisions based on resilience and insight.

Risk Warning: Trading financial instruments involves significant risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Market conditions can change rapidly, and losses may exceed deposits. Ensure you understand the risks involved and trade responsibly.

Naturedesign's Cinnamon Table Receives Archiproducts Design Award 2025, with Additional Recognition for Nicoline Italia Ahead of Salone del Mobile Milano 2026

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 12:21:05 +0200

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - Naturedesign, an Italian furniture manufacturer, has been recognised at the Archiproducts Design Awards 2025 in the Furniture category for its Cinnamon glass dining table, designed by Gino Carollo. The award was announced in November 2025 as part of the tenth edition of the Archiproducts Design Awards.

Break modular sofa system by Nicoline Italia, an Italian brand represented by Colzani in Singapore

The recognition comes ahead of Salone del Mobile Milano 2026, where Naturedesign is scheduled to exhibit alongside international brands from 21 to 26 April at Fiera Milano Rho.

Archiproducts Design Awards: 2025 Edition

The Archiproducts Design Awards is an international programme recognising product design across architecture and interior categories. The 2025 edition received over 800 submissions globally, assessed by a jury comprising industry professionals across design and architecture disciplines.

Naturedesign's Cinnamon table was selected within the Furniture category. The design features curved glass bases formed through heat processing techniques, paired with a shaped glass top with folded edges. The project reflects an approach that integrates material experimentation with functional design.

"Advanced technology and sophisticated design come together to transform glass into a fluid and harmonious element in every detail. The synergy between form and colour creates a sensory experience that engages and captivates."

- Naturedesign, on the Cinnamon table

Additional Recognition Within Colzani's Brand Portfolio

In the same awards cycle, Nicoline Italia, another Italian brand represented by Colzani in Singapore, also received recognition through its Break modular sofa system, which was featured among Archiproducts' curated design selections.

The Break sofa is characterised by its modular configuration and curved form language, allowing for flexible spatial arrangements. Upholstered in fabric, the system is designed to accommodate both residential and hospitality environments, with an emphasis on adaptability and continuity of form across different layouts.

This recognition reflects the broader representation of Italian design within Colzani's portfolio, which includes multiple brands participating in international design platforms.

Naturedesign and Material Approach

Naturedesign operates from Cerea, Verona, focusing on furniture produced using a mix of reclaimed and natural materials. Its production combines small-scale industrial processes with artisan-based techniques. The brand describes this approach through the tagline "Shaped by Nature".

The Cinnamon table is part of the brand's Home Collection and incorporates glass processing methods to achieve its structural and visual characteristics.

Salone del Mobile Milano 2026

Naturedesign and Nicoline will participate in the 64th edition of Salone del Mobile Milano, one of the major international trade fairs for furniture and interior design. The event will feature over 1,900 exhibitors from 32 countries, presenting developments across furniture, lighting, and interior systems.

Event	Details
Exhibition	Salone del Mobile Milano 2026
Dates	21 to 26 April 2026
Venue	Fiera Milano Rho, Milan, Italy
Naturedesign Exhibitor Page	salonemilano.it/en/brands/nature-design

Event	Details
Exhibition	Salone del Mobile Milano 2026
Dates	21 to 26 April 2026
Venue	Fiera Milano Rho, Milan, Italy
Nicoline Exhibitor Page	https://www.salonemilano.it/en/brands/nicoline-salotti

Regional Availability Through Colzani

In Singapore, Naturedesign and Nicoline Italia are represented by Colzani, a furniture showroom that curates Italian brands for residential, hospitality, and commercial applications.

Colzani provides access to selected collections from its represented brands, supporting regional clients including homeowners, designers, and developers. Its portfolio includes Naturedesign, Nicoline Italia, Potocco, and Ronda Design.

Hashtag: #Naturedesign

https://colzani.asia/
https://www.facebook.com/colzani.asia/
https://www.instagram.com/colzani.italia/

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Colzani

Colzani is a Singapore-based furniture showroom representing Italian design brands. Its portfolio includes Naturedesign, Nicoline Italia, Potocco, and Ronda Design, offering curated collections for regional projects.

Website: colzani.asia

About Naturedesign

Naturedesign is an Italian furniture brand based in Cerea, Verona. The company focuses on the use of reclaimed materials and natural elements, combining industrial production with artisanal techniques.

Website: naturedesign.com

About Nicoline Italia

Nicoline Italia is an Italian furniture manufacturer specialising in upholstered seating systems. Its collections include modular sofas designed for flexibility across residential and contract settings.

Website: nicoline.it

Museum to national anthem opens in Podnanos

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 11:50:33 +0200

Podnanos, a small village at the foot of Mt Nanos in the southwest of the country, is where the author of the music of Slovenia's national anthem was born in 1880. His birthplace has now been turned into a museum to Zdravljica (A Toast).

National bard France Prešeren (1800-1849) is widely known as the author of Zdravljica, a poem inspired by the ideas of liberty, equality, and fraternity, the 7th stanza of which was chosen as Slovenia's national anthem shortly before Slovenia declared independence.

However, many Slovenians would struggle to name Stanko Premrl (1880-1965), a priest and prolific composer, as the author of the music. Determined to change that, the locals initiated renovation of his birthplace, turning out in great numbers for the opening of Zdravljica House on 17 April.

"This is a major event for the village as well as for the wider community," Jurij Rosa, a local and historian, said, adding that they had finally lived to see the museum they had been aspiring for for so long.

At Zdravljica House, visitors will be able to learn all about the creation of the Slovenian national anthem and get insight into the time when Premrl wrote the choral piece in 1905. They will also learn about Prešeren and Matija Vertovec (1784-1851), a priest, astronomer and winemaker from Podnanos, as well as about the town's rich heritage.

Locals gather for the opening of Zdravljica House in Podnanos. Photo: Facebook profile of Vipava Mayor Anton Lavrenčič

Premrl was one of the most prolific Slovenian composers. He left behind more than 2,000 compositions. One link between him and Prešeren was Premrl's fellow villager Vertovec, who encouraged Prešeren to write a poem honouring grapevine.

It might have been due to this that Premrl set out to compose the music for A Toast as a 25-year-old home for holiday from his study at the Vienna Conservatory. In his memoir he wrote that the melody for it came to him in Lozice, a village east of Podnanos.

He completed the composition in Vienna and published it shortly after in the music magazine Novi Akordi (New Accords). In 1989, Slovenia's parliament chose his music together with the 7th stanza of Prešeren's poem as the Slovenian national anthem.

The museum is designed in an interactive way and aimed at different types of visitors, from children to school groups and foreign visitors, according to the Vipava municipality.

Premrl's birthplace was renovated and turned into a museum as part of an EU-funded project of six partners led by the municipality of Vipava called BEroots to promote sustainable tourism and cultural heritage between the Vipava Valley and the Venetian lagoon in Italy. Including the purchase of the house, the renovation project cost €475,000.

Rhenus Logistics Strengthens Asia-Latam Trade with Record Growth in 2025

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 11:41:00 +0200

170,000 TEUs handled on the Asia-Latam trade lane, positioning Rhenus among the Top 3 logistics providers in the corridor
No. 1 ranking in Far East inbound flows to Argentina, Colombia, and Paraguay, strengthening leadership in key markets
Strategic procurement hub in Hong Kong dedicated to LATAM market to support long-term growth

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - In a global environment marked by the acceleration of international trade, Rhenus Logistics reaffirms its position as one of the leading logistics companies in Latin America by consolidating the strategic Asia-LATAM trade lane and recording unprecedented growth during the 2024-2025 period.

Rhenus handled over 170,000 TEUs in full container load (FCL) shipments along the Far East Asia - Latin America corridor, positioning itself among the Top 3 players on this strategic tradelane. This performance reflects sustained expansion and operational execution aligned with the increasingly demanding requirements of global trade.

The impact of growth along the Asia-LATAM corridor is evident in strong results at both regional and local levels. In particular, Rhenus achieved the No. 1 ranking in Far East inbound flows to Argentina, Colombia, and Paraguay, consolidating its leadership in these key markets.

Additionally, Rhenus significantly strengthened its performance in other countries in Latin America by leveraging its local presence and operational capabilities to efficiently meet the needs of international trade. This positioning reinforces Rhenus as a key player in the Far East-Latin America corridor, combining scale, local expertise, and a robust operational network to support its customers' growth across the region.

These results are especially relevant in a context where Asian companies are expected to continue increasing exports to Latin America. According to estimates from Americas Market Intelligence, trade volume between China and Latin America could reach US$700 billion by 2035, driving growing demand for logistics providers with increasingly robust, efficient capabilities aligned with Asian market standards.

Strategic Support from Asia

As part of its strategy to further strengthen this corridor, Rhenus operates a procurement center in Hong Kong, exclusively dedicated to serving the Latin American market. This presence in one of the company's main commercial hubs ensures efficient origin management, optimized coordination with Asian suppliers, and direct connectivity between regional operations and global markets.

The Hong Kong center acts as a strategic bridge between Asia and Latin America, providing greater supply chain visibility, agility, and control, while enhancing Rhenus' ability to respond to the increasing demands of global trade.

A Long-Term Strategic Commitment

The sustained growth we are achieving in Latin America confirms that the Asia-LATAM corridor is a strategic pillar for Rhenus in the region. These results reflect not only our local execution capabilities, but also a long-term vision focused on anticipating global market needs and actively supporting the development of local economies across the region," said Fadelly Duque, Head of Sales LATAM, Rhenus Logistics.

With a strategy focused on efficiency, operational reliability, and regional strengthening, Rhenus Logistics continues to position itself as a key logistics partner for trade between Asia and Latin America, supporting the evolution of supply chains and the growth of commercial exchange between both regions.
Hashtag: #Rhenus

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Rhenus

The Rhenus Group is one of the leading logistics specialists with global business operations and annual turnover amounting to EUR 8.2 billion. 39,000 employees work at 1,300 business sites in more than 70 countries and develop innovative solutions along the complete supply chain. Whether providing transport, warehousing, customs clearance or value-added services, the family-owned business pools its operations in various business units where the needs of customers are the major focus at all times.

Leveraging CICPE Yacht Sub-Venue, Sanya Accelerates Development as Asia-Pacific Yachting Capital

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 11:20:58 +0200

HAIKOU, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - On April 15, the Sanya International Yacht Sub-Venue of the 6th China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) officially kicked off. The event has brought together brands from leading global yacht-producing countries, such as France, Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United States. Over 90 yacht manufacturers and supporting companies have participated in the event, with 200 yachts of various types being showcased at the exhibition.

The Sanya International Yacht Sub-Venue of the 6th China International Consumer Products Expo kicks off with multiple yachts making their global debut.

As a core featured exhibition area of the CICPE, the Sanya International Yacht Sub-Venue covers a total exhibition area of over 160,000 square meters, including a sprawling 148,800-square-meter on-water section. The exhibition is divided into six specialized sections, covering green vessel innovation, China debuts of international brands, and intelligent water sports equipment, among others. While top-tier global luxury yacht brands remain a major draw, the industry's most compelling highlights this year lie elsewhere: the rapid rise of domestic yacht manufacturing, the commercial deployment of green new energy technologies, and the growing integration of yachting into everyday lifestyle.

International luxury yacht brands made a strong showing at the event, with renowned names like France's Lagoon, Italy's Azimut, the United Kingdom's Sunseeker, Canada's Bombardier, Germany's Bavaria, and the United States' Sea Ray unveiling their latest models. Five superyachts, each exceeding 80 feet in length, docked at the marina, becoming a highlight of the event.

China's sustained release of high-end leisure consumption potential has made it a core growth driver for the global yachting industry. At the exhibition, 24 products made their China debut, including the United Kingdom's Princess S72, as well as yachts from international brands like Germany's Bavaria and Poland's Delphia. Notably, a purchase intent for the Princess S72 was reached immediately following its debut.

Meanwhile, Chinese yacht manufacturers are stepping up their game, with nine yachts making their global debuts. These new models span a diverse range of categories, including small- and medium-sized luxury yachts, electric leisure vessels, and fishing vessels. Featuring designs tailored to Chinese consumer preferences and competitively priced, they have drawn significant attention on the show floor.

Green and low-carbon development stands as a central theme of this year's exhibition. A dedicated new energy yacht zone showcases eco-friendly vessels, including pure electric, hybrid, and hydrogen-powered yachts. Among these, electric yachts powered by lithium batteries achieve zero-emission navigation. Their noise levels and operating costs are significantly lower than those of traditional fuel-powered yachts, perfectly aligning with the global shift toward low-carbon consumption.

Furthermore, the exhibition strives to shatter the long-held stereotype of yachts as an exclusive, high-end niche. To that end, it has created immersive consumption scenarios that integrate yachting with gourmet food, lure fishing, and camping. Services such as yacht license consultations and second-hand yacht trading are also being offered, all aimed at making water-based leisure more accessible to the public.

Sanya, the host city of the exhibition and known as the "City of a Thousand Yachts," is actively building itself into the "Asia-Pacific Yachting Capital." The city has already completed five yacht marinas, and last year hit a record high of 225,600 yacht departures. Concurrently, the Sanya Central Business District (CBD) has attracted 124 companies along the yacht industry chain, covering full-chain services such as design and R&D, manufacturing and maintenance, berth operations, and high-end supporting facilities.

Leveraging its exceptional marine resources and the policy backing of the Hainan Free Trade Port, Sanya is accelerating the construction of an ecosystem that integrates yacht display and trading, consumption experiences, and industrial agglomeration. This, in turn, provides a vital platform for global yacht brands to expand their presence in the Chinese market.

Hashtag: #CICPE

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Ascott Records Strongest-ever Southeast Asia Signings in 2025, Powering Multi-typology Growth

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 11:00:55 +0200

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the wholly owned lodging business unit of CapitaLand Investment (CLI), recorded a landmark year of signings in Southeast Asia in 2025, adding more than 7,300 units across the region. This represents a 55% increase over the 4,700 units signed in 2024 and marks Ascott's strongest signing performance in Southeast Asia to date.

Located on the shores of West Lake in Hanoi's upscale Tay Ho District, Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi is poised to become Ascott's largest full service MICE hotel and a landmark events and hospitality destination in Vietnam's capital. Complementing the recently launched international convention centre spanning 13 event venues, the hotel is set to fully open with 1,165 rooms, 10 food & beverage concepts and a spa by 2027.

The momentum placed Ascott among the top three hospitality companies in Southeast Asia by new signings in 2025, according to Horwath HTL. Building on this performance, Ascott has an established regional portfolio comprising over 200 operational properties and a pipeline of about 150 properties across Southeast Asia, spanning multiple typologies and markets. With more than 25 new properties expected to open within the next 12 months, the pipeline reflects strong owner confidence in Ascott's brands and its proven ability to convert signings into operational properties at scale.

Ascott's expansion is underpinned by Southeast Asia's structurally resilient tourism fundamentals. Following the region's near-complete post-pandemic recovery in 2025, travel momentum is increasingly driven by intra-ASEAN demand, rising visitor spending and improving regional connectivity[1]. At the same time, the region's hospitality market remains highly fragmented, with independent and unbranded properties accounting for most hotel supply. As more owners look to established international operators for brand strength, distribution reach and revenue capabilities, Southeast Asia continues to present a strong pipeline for Ascott's growth across signings and conversions.

Ms Serena Lim, Chief Growth Officer, Ascott, said: "Southeast Asia continues to be one of the most dynamic hospitality markets in the world and Ascott is well positioned to capture the opportunity. With over four decades in our home base, we have established deep market expertise and a trusted brand presence, positioning us for our next phase of growth. Our expansion is intentional and owner-led, anchored by long-term partnerships with owners who value our flex-hybrid model and its ability to deliver resilient outcomes. Supported by our multi-typology brand strategy, we have moved beyond our serviced residence heritage to unlock opportunities across a broader range of lodging types. The depth of owner interest and track record across Southeast Asia gives us confidence in both our pipeline and our ability to execute this expansion."

Ms Wong Kar Ling, Chief Strategy Officer and Managing Director, Southeast Asia, Ascott, said: "The upcoming wave of openings reinforces Southeast Asia's role as both a core growth engine and a showcase for Ascott's multi-typology brand strategy. As we scale across cities and resort destinations, disciplined execution remains our focus - from efficient conversions to reliable delivery on the ground. The strength of our local teams has been instrumental in translating strategy into outcomes, turning pipeline into reality with the speed and precision our owners and guests expect. We are particularly excited about our upcoming resort openings across the region, which will meaningfully expand our leisure offerings and open up new destinations for Ascott Star Rewards members to explore and enjoy their rewards."

Ascott's SEA portfolio updates were shared at a media briefing at Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi in Vietnam, alongside the unveiling of the property's MICE facilities. Pictured (left to right): Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer; Serena Lim, Chief Growth Officer; Kevin Goh, Chief Executive Officer; and, Wong Kar Ling, Chief Strategy Officer and Managing Director, Southeast Asia.

Growing into New Cities and Markets
Ascott's development pipeline will extend its footprint into around 20 new cities across Southeast Asia, taking the company beyond established gateway markets and deeper into emerging leisure and business destinations. New cities entering the Ascott portfolio include Phu Quoc and Nha Trang in Vietnam; Phuket and Hat Yai in Thailand; Labuan Bajo and Medan in Indonesia; Davao and Biñan in the Philippines; and Johor Bahru and Langkawi in Malaysia.

Driving Speed to Market through Conversions and Brownfields
About 30% of the development pipeline in Southeast Asia will be delivered through conversions, reflecting Ascott's capability to reposition existing assets under its brands and accelerate market entry. Among the notable examples are three Bayview-branded properties in Penang and Langkawi owned by Oriental Holdings, which will be rebranded as Ascott Batu Ferringhi Penang, Oakwood Georgetown Penang and FOX Hotel Langkawi by 2028. Conversion projects expected to open within approximately one year of signing include Citadines Mitra Bandung, Oakwood Pandanaran Semarang and Fox Hotel Nagoya Batam.

Alongside new-build developments, conversions enable Ascott to meet demand in markets where opportunities exist but greenfield supply pipelines are constrained. This dual-track approach strengthens Ascott's ability to scale efficiently across diverse markets and property types.

Expanding Across Multiple Lodging Types
The development pipeline across Southeast Asia reflects the full breadth of Ascott's multi-typology brand strategy, anchored by its serviced residence heritage and extending across hotels, resorts, social living properties and branded residences. It spans brands including Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection and The Unlimited Collection. This range of brands and formats positions Southeast Asia as a showcase for Ascott's ability to address demand across different markets, guest segments and destination types.

Resort properties represent one of the most significant areas of growth within this pipeline. Upcoming resort openings across Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia and Thailand will complement Ascott's established urban portfolio and strengthen its balance across business and leisure travel segments.

Highlights of Upcoming Openings
More than 25 properties from Ascott's pipeline are expected to open within the next 12 months. These near-term openings follow the launches of Somerset Valero Makati in the Philippines and Oakwood Cameron Highlands in Malaysia earlier this year, and form part of a broader rollout across Southeast Asia.

Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi
Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi is poised to become Ascott's largest full-service MICE hotel and a landmark events and hospitality destination in Vietnam's capital. Located on the shores of West Lake in Hanoi's upscale Tay Ho District, the property features an international convention centre that is already operational, offering 13 flexible event spaces including Hanoi's largest pillarless hotel grand ballroom with capacity for up to 2,000 guests. When fully open in 2027, the property will also offer 1,165 hotel rooms and serviced apartments as well as premium wellness facilities including a spa, gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and yoga rooms, alongside 10 dining concepts and a sky bar overlooking the lake. Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi combines long-stay living, hotel accommodation and world-class MICE facilities under one roof, firmly establishing Ascott's credentials in Vietnam's fast-growing meetings and events market.

Set to establish its credentials in Vietnam's fast-growing meetings and events market, Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi offers 13 flexible event spaces including Hanoi's largest pillarless hotel grand ballroom with capacity for up to 2,000 guests.

Lasong Hotel & Villas Sam Son by The Unlimited Collection
Set to complete its full opening on 24 April 2026, Lasong Hotel & Villas Sam Son by The Unlimited Collection will mark the debut of a landmark wellness resort on Vietnam's northern coast. Located at the confluence of the Ma River and Sam Son Beach in Thanh Hoa Province, the property brings together 68 boutique hotel rooms and 20 private pool villas already in operation since mid-2025, with the newly opening 190-room Sky Vista tower completing the full resort experience. Sky Vista is anchored by an authentic Korean jjimjilbang, four-season pool, plant-based dining and a full spa, drawing on Sam Son's coastal heritage and Vietnamese-Korean wellness traditions to deliver a deeply local and distinctive stay.

HARRIS Resort Cam Ranh
Slated to open progressively from 4Q 2026, HARRIS Resort Cam Ranh marks the debut of the HARRIS brand in Vietnam and signals the start of a wave of Ascott resort openings along the country's coastline. The 693-unit all-in-one resort is located along Long Beach in Cam Ranh, one of Vietnam's fastest-growing leisure and aviation hubs. It is designed for families and leisure travellers, featuring specialty dining, a beach club, recreational facilities and dedicated meeting spaces.

Together, Lasong and HARRIS Resort Cam Ranh mark the beginning of Ascott's significant resort push across Southeast Asia through 2028. In Vietnam, this will be followed by Citadines Selavia Phu Quoc in 2027 and Somerset Nha Trang in 2028.

Beyond Vietnam, the resort pipeline extends across multiple markets. Scheduled to open in 2027 are Ascott Abov Patong Phuket Resort in Thailand, lyf Resort Labuan Bajo and Oakwood Jimbaran Villas and Residences Bali in Indonesia, as well as Balai Dajao by Preference in Siargao, the Philippines. In 2028, this will be followed by Ascott Batu Ferringhi Penang in Malaysia, Citadines Mactan Cebu Resort in the Philippines and Oakwood Premier Berawa Beach Bali in Indonesia, expanding the range of leisure destinations available to Ascott Star Rewards members across the region.

1926 Heritage Hotel Penang by The Unlimited Collection
Opening in 2026 to coincide with its centenary, the 78-room 1926 Heritage Hotel Penang by The Unlimited Collection breathes new life into one of George Town's most storied properties. Located on Burma Road within Penang's UNESCO World Heritage-listed enclave, the hotel has been sensitively restored to preserve its original Anglo-Malay architectural character while delivering a full-service experience - including a swimming pool, gym, spa and wellness centre, hair salon, bar and bistro, restaurant, and flexible event spaces comprising a function hall and meeting room. The property exemplifies The Unlimited Collection's philosophy of celebrating the cultural soul of a destination, offering guests an immersive gateway to Penang's rich heritage and living culture. The reopening has already captured international attention, with The New York Times and Bloomberg highlighting the hotel in their respective features on Penang as a must-visit destination for 2026.

lyf Chinatown Singapore
Slated to open in July 2026, lyf Chinatown Singapore exemplifies the lyf brand's experience-led approach to social living, set against one of Singapore's most historically significant precincts. The property is housed within a newly developed building linked to four pre-war conservation shophouses on Pagoda Street, within the Jamae Chulia Heritage site. Social spaces - including a coworking lounge, social kitchen, rooftop swimming pool and outdoor courtyard - are designed to foster community and connection among the next-generation of travellers, digital nomads and creatives. The property will also programme cultural experiences rooted in the local neighbourhood, reinforcing the lyf brand's philosophy of integrating authentic local culture into the social living experience.

Somerset Clarke Quay Singapore
Somerset Clarke Quay Singapore forms part of CanningHill Piers, a landmark integrated development on River Valley Road. The 192-unit serviced residence occupies a prime riverfront address in the heart of the Clarke Quay day-to-night lifestyle precinct, with direct connectivity to Fort Canning MRT station and dual frontages facing the Singapore River and Fort Canning Hill. Rooted in biophilic design and thoughtful comfort, the property is conceived as a nature-inspired sanctuary where families can come together, with spaces crafted for connection, ease and everyday living - making it one of the most distinctive Somerset addresses in the region.

Ascott Ortigas Manila
Expected to open in 2026, Ascott Ortigas Manila marks the debut of the flagship Ascott brand in the Ortigas Central Business District, one of Metro Manila's most dynamic commercial hubs. A conversion of the well-established Joy-Nostalg Hotel & Suites Manila, the 229-unit property closed in January 2026 for a comprehensive renovation of its rooms, public spaces and food and beverage offerings. Located directly across from the Asian Development Bank headquarters, it is ideally positioned to serve corporate, long-stay and leisure travellers, and will offer dining, a spa, fitness centre and event spaces upon reopening.

[1] Source: ASEAN Tourism Outlook 2025, ASEAN Secretariat and ERIA, October 2025.

Hashtag: #TheAscottLimited #Hospitality #Growth #SEA

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The Ascott Limited

The Ascott Limited (Ascott) is driven by a vision to be the preferred hospitality company, enriching global living with heartfelt experiences. With a portfolio of more than 1,000 properties spanning over 230 cities across more than 40 countries, Ascott's presence spans Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the USA. Its diverse collection of award-winning brands includes Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection, The Unlimited Collection, Fox, Harris, POP!, Preference, Quest, Vertu and Yello.

Ascott specialises in managing and franchising a wide range of lodging options, including serviced residences, hotels, resorts, social living properties and branded residences, catering to the varying needs and preferences of global travellers. Through the Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) loyalty programme, members enjoy exclusive privileges and curated experiences, enhancing every aspect of their travel journey.

As a wholly owned business unit of CapitaLand Investment Limited, Ascott generates fee-related revenue by leveraging its expertise in both lodging management and investment management. It also drives the expansion of funds under management by growing its sponsored CapitaLand Ascott Trust and private funds.

For more information on Ascott and its sustainability programme, please visit www.discoverasr.com/the-ascott-limited. Alternatively, connect with Ascott on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn.

CapitaLand Investment Limited

Headquartered and listed in Singapore in 2021, CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) is a leading global real asset manager with a strong Asia foothold. As at 31 December 2025, CLI had S$125 billion of funds under management. CLI holds stakes in eight listed real estate investment trusts and business trusts and a suite of private real asset vehicles that invest in demographics, disruption and digitalisation-themed strategies. Its diversified real asset classes include retail, office, lodging, industrial, logistics, business parks, wellness, self-storage, data centres and credit.

CLI aims to scale its fund management, lodging management and commercial management businesses globally and maintain effective capital management. As the investment management arm of CapitaLand Group, CLI has access to the development capabilities of and pipeline investment opportunities from CapitaLand Group's development arm.

CLI is committed to growing in a responsible manner, delivering long-term economic value and contributing to the environmental and social well-being of its communities.

The Famous CFC Makes Vietnam Debut with Chelsea Legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink at Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 11:00:54 +0200

The two-day programme brought over 300 Chelsea supporters and Ascott Star Rewards members together for immersive fan experiences, including the Night with the Blues event at Hanoi's newest integrated events and hospitality destination

LONDON/HANOI/SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the Official Hotels Partner of Chelsea Football Club, has concluded its fourth edition of The Famous CFC, Chelsea's international fan engagement programme. The Hanoi showcase marked the programme's Vietnam debut and featured Chelsea legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, a two-time Premier League Golden Boot winner. Held across Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi, Oakwood Residence Hanoi and Somerset West Point Hanoi on 17 and 18 April 2026, the two-day programme brought together more than 300 fans and Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) members for a curated series of fan engagements, including a fireside chat, an exclusive member meet-and-greet, and the newly introduced Night with the Blues event.

A football legend at a legendary venue: The Famous CFC Hanoi concluded on 18 April 2026 with over 350 Chelsea fans and ASR members gathering at the Ho Tay Ballroom at Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi for A Night with the Blues. Chelsea legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink headlined an evening of fan games, chants and a dinner prepared by the hotel's culinary team, making it a night that brought the spirit of Chelsea Football Club alive in the heart of Hanoi. Pictured in image: Chelsea legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink (centre) with Ms Tan Bee Leng (left), Ascott's Chief Commercial Officer, and dinner attendees.

The Hanoi edition marked two notable milestones. For Hasselbaink, it was his first official club visit to Vietnam, a moment long anticipated by the country's Blues community. For Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi, it signalled the official debut of its international convention centre: a purpose-built event destination anchored by the Ho Tay Ballroom - the largest pillarless ballroom in Hanoi - one of 13 meeting venues. The convention centre is part of the 1,165-room integrated property scheduled to open fully later this year.

Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink said: "Spending the weekend with so many Chelsea fans in Hanoi was an amazing experience. You could really feel the passion for the club, and Ascott created an environment that brought fans closer to the Chelsea spirit. Moments like these help strengthen the connection between the club and its supporters."

John Rogers, Head of Partnerships at Chelsea Football Club, said: "Hanoi showed exactly what The Famous CFC, presented by Ascott, is all about. Our passionate fans brought great energy to the event and made it an unforgettable experience. The turnout and engagement from Chelsea supporters and Ascott Star Rewards members further proves the incredible connection we share with our established fanbase across Southeast Asia. We're proud of what we've built through our partnership with Ascott, and excited to take it even further in the seasons ahead."

Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer, Ascott, said: "Every edition of The Famous CFC is designed to introduce new experiences, and Hanoi was no exception. Southeast Asia is home to more than 30% of Ascott's global portfolio, with Vietnam among our most active markets for new openings. This edition brought together two firsts - Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink's inaugural official club visit to Vietnam, and the official debut of Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi's international convention centre - creating a distinctive experience for Chelsea fans and Ascott Star Rewards members alike."

"The Famous CFC reflects how Ascott's partnership with Chelsea translated into real value for our members and guests. Ascott Star Rewards is built on our 'Stay Rewarded' promise, and through this partnership, we continue to extend that promise beyond stays into curated experiences - from close interactions with club legends to early access to key properties across our portfolio," she added.

Highlights from The Famous CFC Hanoi
The two-day programme kickstarted on Friday, 17 April, when Hasselbaink joined a coaching session for young beneficiaries of the Centre for Supporting Community Development Initiatives (SCDI), a Hanoi-based non-profit organisation supporting the social inclusion of vulnerable communities. During the session, Hasselbaink shared football tips and encouraged the participants, drawing on personal lessons from his journey as a professional player. The activity reflected The Famous CFC's focus on engaging local fan communities and aligned with Ascott's ongoing commitment to community engagement through its sustainability programme, Ascott CARES.

Following the community initiative, Hasselbaink visited Oakwood Residence Hanoi to experience the brand's signature warmth and comfort food philosophy before participating in an intimate fireside chat at Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi. There, he recounted some of his fondest memories as one of Chelsea's most celebrated forwards, including defining goals, team culture and lessons that have remained with him beyond his playing years. The session brought together a Chelsea legend with Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi, a world-class venue designed to host landmark international events.

On the second day on Saturday, 18 April, Hasselbaink took time to explore the city before joining Ascott Star Rewards members for an exclusive meet-and-greet at Somerset West Point Hanoi. In keeping with Somerset's emphasis on shared experiences, the session provided members with the opportunity to engage directly with the Chelsea legend through a Q&A segment and photography opportunities.

The programme culminated with Night with the Blues at Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi's Ho Tay Ballroom, which was transformed for the occasion into a football-themed event space that brought the energy of London's Stamford Bridge right to the heart of Hanoi. For the more than 300 fans, some of whom had travelled in from across the region, the electrifying matchday atmosphere arrived well before kick-off. The event combined Ascott's signature hospitality, fan activations and extended engagement with Hasselbaink, building to a crescendo as Chelsea prepared to face Manchester United later that evening.

Said Supachok Pornsri, a Chelsea fan and ASR member who travelled from Bangkok, Thailand to attend The Famous CFC in Hanoi: "Meeting Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink in person was a dream come true. As a devoted Chelsea fan, getting up close with a club legend is something I will not forget. Having attended past editions of The Famous CFC in Bangkok and Jakarta, this Hanoi edition once again showed how seamlessly Ascott brings together world-class hospitality with fans' passion for Chelsea. That is what makes being an ASR member truly worthwhile. I hope ASR continues to offer experiences like this, and Ascott will definitely be my first choice for future travels."

For the latest updates on exclusive offers from Ascott's partnership with Chelsea, including the upcoming editions of The Famous CFC, please visit https://www.discoverasr.com/en/ascott-chelseafc.

About Ascott Star Rewards (ASR)
Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) offers members a range of exclusive privileges designed to elevate every aspect of their travel experience. From priority welcome services and access to airport lounges, to enhanced stay benefits such as car rental privileges, bonus ASR points, airline miles and travel vouchers, ASR ensures a seamless, start-to-finish experience. Beyond exceptional stays, ASR members also enjoy access to Ascott Privilege Signatures, which unlocks invitations to prestigious global events, including Premier League football matches, renowned tennis tournaments, and elite gastronomy and lifestyle experiences. To become an ASR member, sign up today at https://www.discoverasr.com/en/sign-up.

Hashtag: #TheAscottLimited #Hospitality #ChelseaFC #Football #Vietnam #CSR

https://www.discoverasr.com/en
https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ascott-limited
https://x.com/discoverasr
https://www.facebook.com/discoverasr
https://www.instagram.com/discoverasr

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

The Ascott Limited

CapitaLand Investment Limited

Headquartered and listed in Singapore in 2021, CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) is a leading global real asset manager with a strong Asia foothold. As at 31 December 2025, CLI had S$125 billion of funds under management. CLI holds stakes in eight listed real estate investment trusts and business trusts and a suite of private real asset vehicles that invest in demographics, disruption and digitalisation-themed strategies. Its diversified real asset classes include retail, office, lodging, industrial, logistics, business parks, wellness, self-storage, data centres and credit.

CLI aims to scale its fund management, commercial management and lodging management businesses globally and maintain effective capital management. As the investment management arm of CapitaLand Group, CLI has access to the development capabilities of and pipeline investment opportunities from CapitaLand Group's development arm.

CLI is committed to growing in a responsible manner, delivering long-term economic value and contributing to the environmental and social well-being of its communities.

Xin Yuan Kicks Off National Bingo Day 2026, Calling for Community Action to Support Seniors

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 10:40:51 +0200

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - Xin Yuan Comcare Ltd announces the launch of its inaugural National Bingo Day for Seniors 2026, set to take place on 27 June 2026 (Saturday), from 9.00am to 11.30am at Plaza@128 (covered space in front of Blk 128 Lorong 1 Toa Payoh).

More than just a game, the initiative brings people together to support seniors who may be facing loneliness and everyday challenges, while giving them something to look forward to.

The event will be graced by Guest of Honour Mr Chee Hong Tat, Minister for National Development, highlighting the importance of community-led efforts in supporting vulnerable seniors.

At the core of the campaign is a simple yet impactful fundraising model. Corporates and individuals are invited to contribute S$500 (tax-deductible donation) to provide 12 months of groceries for one senior, with a target of benefiting at least 288 seniors through this initiative.

Designed as both a celebratory and socially driven initiative, National Bingo Day for Seniors aims to address pressing issues faced by Singapore's ageing population, including loneliness, social isolation, and ongoing daily needs such as access to essentials. By blending a fun, inclusive event with a clear social impact model, Xin Yuan hopes to create meaningful change for seniors in need.

"This initiative is more than just an event. It is really about reminding people that our seniors still need us," said Mr Randy Ang, President of Xin Yuan Comcare Ltd. "Over the years, we have met seniors who have families and children who are doing well, but for different reasons, they are often left on their own or do not receive the time and care they need. Some end up turning to Xin Yuan not just for support, but for companionship and a sense of belonging. That is why community care is so important. Through this initiative, we hope more people will step forward to show that our seniors are not alone, and that they are still valued and cared for."

A key highlight of the campaign is its strong intergenerational component, with students from Catholic Junior College actively participating in the programme. Their involvement reflects a shared commitment to support community care and meaningful youth engagement.

"Through this initiative, CJCians have the opportunity to engage meaningfully with seniors, building empathy and forging genuine intergenerational connections, thereby living the Catholic Ethos which include respecting the human dignity of others, working in solidarity with others in society to build the common good," said Mrs Woo Soo Min, Principal of Catholic Junior College. "These formative experiences go beyond service, developing students as servant leaders. In doing so, they grow in empathy, social responsibility and a deeper commitment to caring for the community."

Xin Yuan is also calling for broad-based support from corporates, individual donors, community organisations, and volunteers, offering opportunities for Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) collaboration, fundraising partnerships, volunteering, and sponsorships. The organisation is currently seeking title sponsors, anchor sponsors, and product sponsors to help deliver a successful event and extend its reach and impact.

With a clear and measurable social outcome, National Bingo Day for Seniors 2026 presents a credible and meaningful platform for community engagement, uniting stakeholders across sectors to support seniors in a tangible way.

Further details on event programming, partnerships, and participation will be announced in the lead-up to June 2026.

Hashtag: #CSR #XinYuanComcare #MinistryOfNationalDevelopment #Singapore #MrCheeHongTat

https://www.xinyuan.org.sg/
https://www.facebook.com/xinyuancomcareltd
https://www.instagram.com/xinyuancomcareltd

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Xin Yuan Comcare Ltd

Xin Yuan Comcare Ltd is a community-focused organisation dedicated to supporting vulnerable seniors through essential services, social programmes, and community-driven initiatives.

For more information, please visit www.xinyuan.org.sg or follow Xin Yuan on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/xinyuancomcareltd

Ann Chin Popiah Brings Heritage Flavours to the Heartlands with Toa Payoh Hub Pop-Up Experience

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 09:00:41 +0200

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - Ann Chin Popiah will launch a special pop-up experience at Toa Payoh Hub in mid-May 2026, expanding its presence into the heartlands through a limited-time concept that blends heritage food preservation with modern retail activation.

The pop-up will be located at a long-standing muah chee stall space within Toa Payoh Hub, marking a thoughtful transition that retains an existing community food offering while introducing additional heritage specialities from Ann Chin Popiah.

Expanding Heritage Offerings in a Heartland Setting

As part of the activation, the existing muah chee offering will be retained, while Ann Chin Popiah introduces its signature items, including handmade popiah and kueh pie tee.

The curated menu aims to offer a combination of established local favourites and the brand's traditional specialities, enhancing food variety within the neighbourhood while maintaining continuity of the stall's longstanding presence.

"Taking over a space with such established roots in the community is a meaningful step for us," said Pamela Tan, third-generation brand representative of Ann Chin Popiah. "Our aim is to preserve what customers already appreciate while introducing our heritage offerings in a familiar and accessible setting."

Showcasing Traditional Craftsmanship and Product Range

Ann Chin Popiah's popiah is known for its handmade skin, crafted through traditional methods passed down across three generations. The pop-up will also feature kueh pie tee, highlighting the brand's broader repertoire of heritage dishes.

The initiative reflects the brand's ongoing focus on making traditional foods more accessible in residential neighbourhoods while maintaining consistency in quality and preparation methods.

Recognised for Quality and Consistency

Ann Chin Popiah's reputation is supported by its consistent industry recognition, having been awarded Michelin Selected status from 2019 to 2025 and ranked among the top 10 best popiahs in Singapore. These accolades underscore the brand's commitment to quality, authenticity, and culinary craftsmanship.

The handmade popiah skin remains central to the brand's identity, with traditional preparation methods preserved to ensure product consistency across all outlets and activations.

Heartland Expansion Strategy

The Toa Payoh Hub pop-up is part of Ann Chin Popiah's broader strategy to expand into high-traffic residential locations through flexible retail formats such as pop-ups and mall-based outlets.

This approach allows the brand to strengthen accessibility while introducing heritage food offerings to new and existing customer segments across Singapore.

"We believe heritage food should remain accessible within the communities where these traditions were built," added Tan. "Through initiatives like this, we hope to continue growing while staying connected to our roots."Hashtag: #AnnChinPopiah

https://www.annchinpopiah.com.sg/

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Ann Chin Popiah

Ann Chin Popiah is a third-generation Singapore heritage brand specialising in handmade popiah skin and traditional popiah. The brand is recognised for its commitment to authenticity, quality, and the preservation of traditional culinary techniques while introducing modern interpretations of heritage dishes.

XTransfer Export PMI: Emerging Markets Drive Growth, High-End Upgrading Opportunities Stand Out

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 09:00:39 +0200

GUANGZHOU, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - XTransfer, the World's Leading B2B Cross-Border Trade Payment Platform, released its latest figures at the 139th China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair). In the first quarter of this year, emerging markets across Asia, Africa, and Latin America accounted for 73% of XTransfer's inbound cross-border payment collections, with 45% increase year-on-year. Collections from Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia increased 115%, 97%, and 18% year-on-year, respectively, highlighting growing demand among exporters for secure and efficient cross-border collection channels.

XTransfer at the 139th Canton Fair

According to statistics from the China General Administration of Customs, emerging markets in Asia, Africa, and Latin America have become a key driver of export growth. However, underdeveloped local financial infrastructure, incomplete cross-border payment systems, and shortages of foreign exchange mean buyers often struggle to access U.S. dollars. As a result, exporters in these markets frequently face low settlement efficiency, slow cash recovery, and risks such as account freezes.

To address these collection challenges, XTransfer has developed a comprehensive set of cross-border collection solutions. In 2025, payment collections from emerging markets in Asia, Africa, and Latin America rose 106% year-on-year. By region, collections increased 273% in Africa, 82% in Southeast Asia, and 94% in Latin America.

Over the same period, customs statistics show that in 2025, China's total goods exports to Asia, Africa, and Latin America increased 14.6% year-on-year, with exports to Africa, Southeast Asia, and Latin America up 26.6%, 14%, and 8%, respectively. XTransfer's significantly faster growth in collections compared with export growth suggests exporters are accelerating the shift from informal channels to secure, compliant collection methods, and that market recognition of high-quality cross-border payment services continues to rise.

Bill Deng, Founder and CEO of XTransfer, said emerging markets offer long-term opportunities for Chinese exporters, but many are held back by the "last mile" of collections. He added that XTransfer is committed to helping SMEs collect funds safely and quickly through secure, compliant, and efficient cross-border financial services comparable to those used by multinational companies.

Release of XTransfer PMI
At the Canton Fair, XTransfer partnered with the Yicai Research Institute to publish the "China Small and Medium Enterprises (B2B) Merchandise Export Purchasing Manager Index" (XTransfer Export PMI), offering operational guidance and decision-making reference for small and micro export-oriented businesses.

This edition draws on a sample survey of XTransfer's 800,000 SME users, selecting over 3,000 companies nationwide. It covers the full export process across export orders, pricing, procurement, logistics, staffing, and cash flow. The report shows that the March 2026 XTransfer PMI was 51.56%, indicating export conditions for SMEs are generally improving. Despite a complex external environment, SMEs have remained resilient and steadily strengthened their pricing power in international markets. Meanwhile, demand structures in emerging markets are reshaping, with export focus shifting toward intermediate goods and higher value-added products.

Resilience Amid Geopolitical Disruptions
Customs data show that in the first quarter, China's goods exports reached RMB 6.85 trillion, up 11.9% year-on-year, marking a strong start to the year and benefiting SMEs. The XTransfer PMI also shows expansion in the export order index (53.85) and the export price index (56.15). While seasonal factors like the Spring Festival affected the short term, the underlying "volume and price rising together" trend suggests SMEs are accelerating their shift from "low-price internal competition," strengthening pricing power through technology upgrades and improved quality.

Geopolitical disruptions have also extended delivery times, pushing the logistics time PMI down to 37.50. In contrast, the sales collection (receivables) index rose to 68.59, showing a pattern of "goods moving slower, money returning faster". This suggests overseas buyers remain strongly tied to China's high-quality supply chain and are willing to raise prepayment ratios or shorten payment terms to secure capacity. One exhibitor, Mr Wang, said, "A Southeast Asian customer increased its deposit from 30% to 70% to lock in production, worried our capacity would be booked by others."

Emerging Markets Demand Trends Toward "High-End" Upgrading
The report highlights a shift toward higher-end demand in emerging markets. Africa's export orders index (57.55) points to rising infrastructure-related demand; Latin America's export orders index (56.47) and price index (57.81) signal opportunities in electromechanical and optical medical equipment; and Southeast Asia is absorbing components and semi-finished goods, calling for SMEs to move from finished-goods suppliers to supply-chain partners.

As industrialisation accelerates in emerging markets, demand for high-quality intermediate goods, complete electromechanical equipment, and technical services is rising. SMEs are moving from "low-end capacity exports" to "exports of technology and supply chain support".

The composite PMI for the "New Three" (new energy vehicles, photovoltaics, and lithium batteries) was 54.59. The "New Three" sectors continue to hold growth potential, and enterprises need to enhance profit margins by delivering differentiated value.
Hashtag: #XTransfer #PMI #Crossborder #Payment #SMEs

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

HGC Announces the Launch of HGC Mobile Expanding Mobile Connectivity Footprint with Enhanced "Network-on-the-Go" Experience

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:40:37 +0200

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - HGC Global Communications("HGC" or the "Group"), a fully-fledged ICT service provider and network operator with extensive global coverage, today announced the launch of its new brand -HGC Mobile, which offers mobile telecommunications services^#.This initiative provides customers with a comprehensive and diversified suite of connectivity solutions, and enables them to benefit from a highly flexible, best in value "network-on-the-go" experience.

HGC launches mobile communications brand - HGC Mobile

Ben Wu, Chief Commercial Officer - Consumer & Mass Market of HGC said, "HGC has built a strong position among Hong Kong's leading broadband service operators through its stable and reliable residential and business broadband services for years. The launch of HGC Mobile represents a significant step in strengthening our overall business portfolio and enhancing the connectivity experience for the public. Looking ahead, we remain committed to investing locally and elevating our service capabilities to meet the needs of a fast-evolving digital landscape."

HGC Mobile's Great-Value Monthly 5G Plans
HGC Mobile curates with a range of competitive mobile service plans designed around affordability, high-speed and excellent performance. Its telecoms service is powered by the Hutchison Telecom Hong Kong network. The plan includes 30GB of 5G local data per month, plus unlimited local data usage across 15 social and OTT entertainment applications such as YouTube, Netflix, Disney+, Apple TV, hmvod, myTV SUPER, Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp and more. Available at HK$98 per month, the plan allows users to enjoy high-speed mobile internet anytime, anywhere perfect for streaming, gaming, and social interactions.

An additional 4GB of Chinese mainland-Macau shared data will be complimented, ensuring stable and smooth cross-border connectivity, ideal for business trips or travel.

Seamless One-Stop Home Broadband + Mobile Services
HGC Mobile allows customers to subscribe both broadband and mobile services through a single platform.

For new customers, a welcome offer "One-Stop Home Broadband + Mobile Service" bundle is available starting from HK$285 per month*, which includes 1000M home fibre broadband with voice service, HGCmore e-coupons and two HGC Mobile services. Enjoy a smooth and seamless connectivity both at home and on the go!

Consumers can sign up via the HGC website at https://www.hgcbroadband.com/en/ or by calling the HGC Mobile hotline at 1226. Our customer service team will provide full details and assistance.

^#Mobile service plans are provided by Hutchison Telecom Hong Kong.
*Terms and conditions apply.

Hashtag: #HGC

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

HGC Global Communications Limited

HGC Global Communications Limited (HGC) is a leading Hong Kong and international telecom operator and ICT solution provider. The company owns an extensive network and infrastructure in Hong Kong and overseas and provides various kinds of services. HGC has 20 global offices and staff presence in 33 cities worldwide. It provides telecom infrastructure service to other operators and serves as a service provider to corporate and households. The company provides full-fledged telecom, data center services, ICT solutions and broadband services for local, overseas, corporate, SME and mass markets. HGC owns and operates an extensive fiber-optic network, five cross-border telecom routes integrated into tier-one telecom operators in mainland China and connects with hundreds of world-class international telecom operators. The company is committed to further investing and enriching its current infrastructure and, in parallel, adding on top the latest technologies and developing its infrastructure services and solutions. In 2019, HGC Group completed the acquisition of Macroview Telecom Limited (Macroview), a leading digital technology solution and managed services provider. The addition of Macroview further accelerates HGC Group's digital transformation path and positioning as a pioneering ICT and digital services leader. HGC is a portfolio company of I Squared Capital, an independent global infrastructure investment manager focusing on energy, utilities, transport, social infrastructure, digital infrastructure, and environmental infrastructure in North America, Europe, Latin America and Asia.

To learn more, please visit HGC's website at: www.hgc.com.hk

Webudding Advances Digital Stationery Through IP Collaborations and Creator Tools

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:40:36 +0200

The digital stationery platform builds a richer ecosystem for users, creators, and brand partners, combining beloved character IP with technology that makes better products faster.

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - Webudding, a digital stationery platform connecting users, creators, and brand partners worldwide, is raising the standard for digital planning aesthetics and functionality. Through licensed IP collaborations and its proprietary creator tool, Webudding Studio, the platform delivers more engaging products for users and a faster, more scalable path to market for the creators and brands behind them.

Webudding Elevates Digital Stationery Through IP Collaborations and Creator Tools

Webudding's IP partnerships span some of the world's most beloved character brands, including Sanrio, San-X, and Butterbear. Together, these collaborations have produced more than 300 digital stationery products that bring recognizable, emotionally resonant characters into everyday planning and journaling. For brand partners, it opens a direct line to tablet-first consumers.

On the creator side, Webudding Studio is addressing one of the most persistent challenges in the digital stationery space: the time and effort required to produce high-quality, interactive products. The tool automatically adds hyperlinks to static PDF files, turning flat documents into dynamic, navigable digital experiences. A process that previously required several days now takes under an hour, allowing creators to focus on core creative work while delivering a more seamless, navigable experience to users.

As digital planning continues to grow, users are expecting products that are both visually appealing and functional, while creators and brands are looking for smarter ways to meet that demand. Webudding sits at the intersection of both, combining the pull of IP-driven design with technology that helps the people building these products do it better and faster.

Explore Webudding's full product catalog at webudding.com/en, or create custom products through Webudding Studio.
Hashtag: #webudding #digitalstationery #creatortools

https://webudding.com/en/
https://www.instagram.com/webudding/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@webudding_official

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Webudding

Webudding is a digital stationery platform offering planners, notebooks, stickers, and other creative digital products for modern note-taking and journaling users. By connecting users, creators, and brand/IP partners, and by supporting faster product creation through Webudding Studio, Webudding makes digital planning more expressive, accessible, and globally relevant.

Jollibee Group Delivers Record Q4 Results and Strong Full Year 2025 Finish

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:20:33 +0200

Q4 Operating Income Sets New Fourth-Quarter Record, Surging 42%, Accelerating Full-Year Growth

METRO MANILA, PHILIPPINES - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - Jollibee Foods Corporation (PSE: JFC), also known as Jollibee Group and one of the fastest-growing and largest Asian food service companies in the world, today reported strong full-year 2025 performance, led by record fourth-quarter operating income of Php4.1 billion (up 41.9% year-on-year) and 16.6% full-year system-wide sales (SWS) growth, based on its audited consolidated financial statements.

The Jollibee Group delivered continued growth in North America, where same-store sales increased by 10.2% in 2025, alongside ongoing expansion across key markets.

In the United States, Jollibee, the Group's flagship brand, continued to gain strong mainstream traction, anchored by the growing recognition of its signature fried chicken, Chickenjoy. In 2025, Chickenjoy was named the #1 Best Fast Food Fried Chicken in the United States by USA Today's 10Best-earning the top spot through expert selection and nationwide consumer voting. This leadership was further reinforced when Eat This, Not That! hailed Chickenjoy as the best fried chicken bucket in the U.S., underscoring Jollibee's rising stature in one of the world's most competitive quick-service markets.

The Group closed 2025 with its highest fourth-quarter operating income on record, increasing by 41.9% year-on-year. For the full year, system-wide sales (SWS) grew by 16.6%, with the international business expanding by 27.0%.
Ernesto Tanmantiong, Global Chief Executive Officer of JFC, shared the following statement on JFC's performance:
"Our strong fourth quarter sales momentum translated into an even more meaningful expansion in operating income, which grew by 41.9% for the quarter - marking our strongest fourth-quarter operating performance in JFC's history.

We closed 2025 with 16.6% systemwide sales (SWS) growth and healthy performance across both our Philippine and International businesses, reflecting the continued relevance of our brands in a dynamic consumer environment. The coffee and tea segment remained a key growth driver, growing SWS by 44.9% and contributing meaningfully to overall store network growth. Jollibee International delivered strong double-digit growth for the year, driven by the strong momentum in Vietnam, Jollibee's largest overseas market by store count, which delivered 40.4% SWS growth and 23.9% Same Store Sales Growth (SSSG) alongside continued network expansion.

Throughout 2025, we continued to scale across our key markets, reinforcing the depth and resilience of our global platform. We opened 1,126 stores during the year, the highest annual store opening level in our company's history, further strengthening our long-term growth runway.

These results reflect the dedication of our teams and the continued trust of our customers. As we enter 2026, we remain focused on sustaining profitable growth, enhancing operational efficiency and creating long-term value for our stakeholders."

Financial Data	Quarter 4 (Unaudited)		% Change	FY 2025 (Audited)		% Change
Financial Data	2025	2024	% Change	2025	2024
System Wide Sales	122,300 (~US$2,084)	109,180 (~US$1,877)	12.0	455,111 (~US$7,914)	390,284 (~US$6,812)	16.6
Revenues	80,890 (~US$1,378)	73,695 (~US$1,267)	9.8	305,112 (~US$5,306)	269,942 (~US$4,712)	13.0
Operating Income	4,143 (~US$71)	2,919 (~US$50)	41.9	20,150 (~US$350)	16,889 (~US$295)	19.3
EBITDA	9,920 (~US$169)	8,355 (~US$144)	18.7	41,830 (~US$727)	36,746 (~US$641)	13.8
Net Income	1,988 (~US$34)	1,920 (~US$33)	3.5	11,005 (~US$191)	10,796 (~US$188)	1.9
Net Income Attributable to Equity
Holders of the Parent Company	2,221 (~US$38)	1,850 (~US$32)	20.1	10,872 (~US$189)	10,317 (~US$180)	5.4
Earnings Per Share - Basic	1.902 (~US$0.032)	1.574 (~US$0.027)	20.8	9.386 (~US$0.163)	8.851 (~US$0.154)	6.0
Earnings Per Share - Diluted	1.897 (~US$0.032)	1.570 (~US$0.027)	20.8	9.362 (~US$0.163)	8.826 (~US$0.154)	6.1

Note:
(1) Amounts in Million Pesos except for Per Share Data
(2) System wide sales (SWS) is a management account, not part of the Audited Financial Statements
(3) Reported growth rates are calculated based on Philippine Peso (PHP) amounts

Consolidated revenues increased by 9.8% for the quarter and 13.0% for the full year, reflecting sustained consumer demand and continued strength across JFC's core markets.

The strong fourth quarter performance builds on the momentum highlighted in JFC's earlier preliminary announcement, which reported robust SWS and SSSG for Q4, underscoring the resilience and broad-based growth of the business across both domestic and international operations.

For full year 2025, SWS for the Philippine business increased by 9.6%, supported by strong contributions from Jollibee (+10.4%), Chowking (+6.1%) and Mang Inasal (+15.6%). The International segment expanded by 27.0%, led by standout performances from Europe Middle East, Asia, Australia (EMEAA) PH brands (+22.1%), Compose Coffee (+217.0%), Highlands Coffee (+15.7%), and Jollibee US (+17.3%).

SSSG for the full year 2025 remained solid at 4.8%, led by the Philippine business with a robust 5.2% increase. International markets likewise delivered healthy performance, with SSSG reaching 4.2%, anchored by contributions from Jollibee North America (+10.2%), EMEAA (+9.0%), and China (+2.1%). This reflects the continued effectiveness of product innovation, targeted marketing initiatives, and operational enhancements in strengthening customer engagement and driving sustained demand.

JFC increased its footprint by 5.9% to 10,341 - Philippines (3,504) and International (6,837) - 576 in China, 348 in North America, 437 in EMEAA, 985 with Highlands Coffee mainly in Vietnam, 1,079 with CBTL, 357 with Milksha, 2,972 with Compose Coffee, and 83 with Tim Ho Wan.

The Jollibee Group's SWS performance and new store openings exceeded its 2025 guidance, while SSSG remained within the guided range.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) for the quarter increased by 18.7% to Php9.9 billion (approx. US$169.0 million), while full-year EBITDA rose by 13.8% to Php41.8 billion (approx. US$727.4 million), reflecting solid operational execution and sustained business momentum across key markets.

Operating income recorded a significant increase of 41.9% in the fourth quarter to Php4.1 billion (approx. US$70.6 million) representing the highest fourth-quarter operating income in JFC's history, with operating income margin expanding by 110 basis points year-on-year. The growth was supported by revenue momentum and improved expense efficiencies, including better optimization of general and administrative and advertising and promotion expenditures during the period.

For the full year, operating income expanded by 19.3% to Php20.1 billion (approx. US$350.4 million), accompanied by a 30-basis-point year-on-year improvement in operating income margin, reflecting sustained cost discipline and operating leverage across the business.

Net income attributable to equity holders of the Parent Company grew by 20.1% to Php2.2 billion (approx. US$37.8 million) in the fourth quarter and by 5.4% to Php10.9 billion (approx. US$189.0 million) for the year. The difference in growth rates relative to operating income primarily reflects higher financing costs and tax provisions during the period.

Basic earnings per share (EPS) increased by 20.8% to Php1.902 (approx. US$0.032) for the quarter and by 6.0% to Php9.386 (approx. US$0.163) for the full year, continuing to demonstrate the Company's commitment to delivering value to its shareholders.

These robust financial results, together with the double-digit growth in consolidated system-wide sales, underscore the Company's resilience and strong market position both in the Philippines and international markets.

Richard Shin, Chief Financial and Risk Officer of JFC and Chief Executive Officer of Jollibee Group International Business, gave the following statement:

"We are pleased with the strong finish to 2025, with fourth quarter operating income reaching the highest level in JFC's history and delivering solid year-on-year growth for both the quarter and the full year. These results reflect the strength of our operating model.

While quarterly margins may vary depending on the investment timing and business mix, we remain focused on sustaining healthy profitability through balanced revenue growth and prudent expense management over the long term. At the same time, we continue to invest strategically in our brands, digital capabilities, and long-term growth platforms while maintaining financial discipline.

For 2026, we are targeting continued top-line momentum and further operating income expansion, supported by strong cash generation and disciplined capital allocation. We remain confident in our ability to build on this momentum and deliver sustainable, profitable growth for our shareholders."

Full Year 2026 Guidance

Based on its target for 2026, JFC projects full year system-wide sales growth to be in the range of 8%-12%, with same store sales growth of 4%-6% and store network increase of 5%-10%. Operating income growth will be in the range of 15%-18%.

JFC plans to expand network by 1,200 to 1,300 stores (gross) in 2026 and expects capital expenditures (CAPEX) range to be further reduced to Php13.0 to 16.0 billion.

Corporate Action

On March 9, 2026, the Board of Directors approved the declaration of a regular cash dividend of Php10.60125 (approx. US$0.178) per share for Series B preferred shares, for a total payout of Php95.4 million (approx. US$1.6 million). The regular cash dividend will be given to the JFC stockholders of record as of March 24, 2026 (ex-dividend date of March 23, 2026). Payment date is April 15, 2026.

Other Developments

On February 13, 2026, JFC announced the signing of definitive agreements, under which its 70% owned subsidiary, Jolli-K Co. Ltd. shall fully acquire Alldayfresh Co., Ltd. The transaction remains subject to customary regulatory approvals and closing conditions.

This acquisition reinforces JFC's commitment to its Chinese Cuisine Segment and franchising initiatives, while opening a gateway to the rapidly expanding international hot pot market, one of the fastest-growing dining segments in Asia and globally and an industry experiencing robust global momentum as consumers gravitate toward healthier, interactive, and communal dining experiences.

Alldayfresh was established in October 2014 and is primarily engaged in the franchise business and food service operations of "Shabu All Day", a hot pot and eat-all-you-can restaurant brand, headquartered in Seoul, Korea, with 169 stores nationwide as of January 2026.

Recognitions

Jollibee, anchored by its iconic Chickenjoy, continues to set the standard for superior brand equity and global taste appeal. It has been ranked as the fifth-strongest restaurant brand worldwide in Brand Finance's Restaurants 25 2026 report. This recognition highlights Jollibee's growing global competitiveness, with its Brand Strength Index (BSI) jumping to 87.9/100 from 83.9 the previous year-one of the most significant gains among restaurant brands.

It's standing is reinforced by multiple accolades in the fourth quarter.

Brand Finance recognized Jollibee in the ASEAN 500 2025 rankings as the #1 brand in terms of brand value, and the 2nd fastest growing brand globally. Champion Brands Mang Inasal and Chowking secured the top 2 and 3 spots, respectively, behind Jollibee.
Jollibee Hong Kong won two voters' choice awards: My Favourite Fast-Food Shop at the U Food Favourite Food Awards 2025, and Best-Ever American Cuisine 2025 at the Weekend Weekly Food Awards.
Jollibee was also awarded the Outstanding Food Corporate of the Year at the Hong Kong Commercial Times Business Awards 2025.
In the US, Jollibee Chickenjoy was featured on American food and lifestyle website Eat This, Not That!'s "Restaurant Chains with the Best Fried Chicken Buckets" list.

Jollibee also remains the only Philippine and Southeast Asian brand in the world's top 25 most valuable restaurant brands, underscoring its unique position as the Philippines' sole representative in the global ranking.

Forward-Looking Statement Disclaimer

The foregoing disclosure contains forward-looking statements that are based on certain assumptions of Management and are subject to risks and opportunities or unforeseen events. Actual results could differ materially from those contemplated in the relevant forward-looking statement, and JFC gives no assurance that such forward-looking statements will prove to be correct, or that such intentions will not change. This Press Release discloses important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from JFC's expectations. All subsequent written and oral forward-looking statements attributable to JFC or person acting on behalf of JFC expressly qualified in their entirety by the above cautionary statements.

Hashtag: #JollibeeGroup

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Jollibee Group

To learn more about Jollibee Group, visit www.jollibeegroup.com

Brother Launches PR1060W 10-Needle Flagship Embroidery Machine

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 06:40:04 +0200

HONG KONG SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - Brother proudly announces the launch of its new flagship 10-needle commercial automatic embroidery machine, the PR1060W. As the latest addition to the PR series, this machine combines high-efficiency multi-needle embroidery, intelligent positioning, and advanced matrix copying technology. It delivers a more powerful and competitive production solution for professional creators, small and medium-sized embroidery studios, and businesses looking to expand their operations.

Compared to the previous flagship model PR1055X launched in 2021, the new PR1060W brings significant upgrades in operational smoothness, embroidery precision, and overall productivity.

Intelligent Matrix Copy Function - Handle Large Orders with Ease

The PR1060W is equipped with an advanced matrix copy function that automatically calculates and arranges the maximum number of repeated patterns according to different hoop sizes, making full use of the available embroidery space. This feature effectively reduces fabric waste and repeated hooping procedures, significantly boosting productivity - ideal for handling high-volume orders.

For example, when using a 180 x 130mm embroidery hoop, the machine automatically duplicates the design into 4 identical patterns. When switched to the larger 360 x 200mm hoop, it can automatically replicate the design into up to 20 identical patterns.

Expanded Embroidery Area with Wireless Workflow

The PR1060W features a spacious 360 × 200mm embroidery field and comes with over 1,280 built-in designs and more than 100 fonts (including 3D fonts), offering greater creative freedom.

Once the design is ready, users can wirelessly transfer the file directly from a laptop or smartphone to the machine, eliminating complicated file transfer steps and making the workflow more efficient for both personal creations and bulk enterprise production.

10-Needle System - Multi-Color Embroidery in One Go

Equipped with 10 needles and 10 spool stands, the PR1060W can automatically switch between up to ten thread colors during embroidery, eliminating the need for frequent manual thread changes. This greatly reduces production time for complex multi-color designs.

Combined with auto-threading, auto-trimming, and jump stitch functions, the entire embroidery process becomes smoother and more stable, allowing users to complete high-quality work faster.

Advanced Camera Positioning - Significantly Enhanced Accuracy

The PR1060W is upgraded with optical camera positioning technology. Through the machine's LCD screen, users can see the exact needle drop position in real time, enabling clear preview of the design before stitching. Even on small areas such as caps and sleeves, precise positioning is achievable, greatly reducing the risk of misalignment.

Versatile Embroidery Accessories

Brother offers a wide range of accessories* for the PR series, including specialized hoops designed for caps and socks. The machine supports automatic hoop detection, which instantly recognizes the installed hoop size and displays the available embroidery area on screen - no manual input required, making operation safer and more reliable.

In addition, the quick-release magnetic hoops secure fabric with simple magnetic attachment. They are particularly suitable for thick or delicate materials, preventing clamp marks or damage while improving embroidery quality and saving preparation time.

*Additional purchase required

Hong Kong Exclusive Local Support

Purchasers of the PR1060W enjoy Brother Hong Kong's official warranty service, covering comprehensive repair and maintenance. Optional professional on-site installation and basic operation training services are also available, delivered by experienced local technical teams to help users quickly master the machine and start production without delay.

BE1 Embroidery Studio - Professional Design Partner

The powerful BE1* Embroidery Studio software supports high-precision complex pattern creation and fully integrates with CorelDRAW® vector editing tools. Users can easily convert photos into embroidery designs and apply various special effects, including hand-stitched and sparkling styles - ideal for highly customized projects.

*Additional purchase required

Opening a New Chapter in Embroidery Business

With its intelligent positioning, high productivity, and versatile functions, the new PR1060W makes embroidery work smoother and more efficient. Whether you are expanding a personal embroidery business or enhancing enterprise-level production capabilities, this flagship machine can be the key enabler to unlock greater commercial possibilities.

For more information on the PR1060W or to arrange a product demonstration, please feel free to contact Brother

Where To Buy

Customers can WhatsApp 3187 0505 or email sales@brother.com.hk to contact a sales manager for detailed quotations, inquiries about purchasing details, product information, and after-sales service. If you are interested in learning more about product operations, you are welcome to schedule a product demonstration, and we will arrange for a product manager to assist you. For more details, please stay updated via the official website or the Brother Love DIY HK Facebook page.

PR1060W Specifications

	PR1060X
Embroidery speed	1,000 spm
Large embroidery area	360X200mm
Built-in designs	1,280
Built-in lettering styles	51
LCD size	10.1inch
On-screen editing	Yes
USB	Yes
Number of needles	10
Pointer	Camera positioning sensor
Jump stitch and wiper function	Yes
Included embroidery frames	-300×200mm embroidery frames -180×130 mm embroidery frames -100 x100 mm embroidery frames -60×40 mm embroidery frames
Size（L×W×H）	approx. 589×561×658mm
Weight	approx. 41.8kgs

Hashtag: #Brother #PR1060W #商用自動刺繡機 #客製化 #刺繡設計

https://www.brother.com.hk/
https://www.facebook.com/lovediy.com.hk
https://www.instagram.com/lovediy.com.hk/

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Brother Hong Kong

Founded in 1908, Brother is now a leading brand that produces quality innovative products for the print and imaging, labelling and sewing markets. Key products include laser printers, Multi-Function Centers (MFCs), fax machines, labelers, label printers, and a wide range of home and industrial sewing machines.

Brother International (Hong Kong) is one of the leading suppliers of home, office, and industrial products in Hong Kong. Established in 1994, it has been serving customers in Hong Kong and Macau for over 30 years. According to IDC's Global Hardware Peripheral Tracker report, Brother's A3 multifunction colour inkjet printer has been the number one in shipment volume in Hong Kong for 18 consecutive years from 2008 to 2025, reaffirming Brother's business success in the region.

For more information about Brother, please contact us via WhatsApp at 3187 0505 or visit www.brother.com.hk.

Empowering the Digital Future: CUKTECH 10 Ultra Charger Officially Launches in the Philippines

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 06:20:01 +0200

Enjoy ₱200 OFF during the launch period, plus stackable platform vouchers and limited-edition freebies.

MANILA, PHILIPPINES - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - CUKTECH, a pioneer in high-performance charging solutions, has officially announced the local debut of its annual flagship: the CUKTECH 10 Ultra Charger. This powerhouse is engineered specifically for the Philippines' diverse modern talent-from hardcore gamers and creative professionals to the vast community of remote (WFH) workers-offering an unprecedented level of charging freedom.

Smart Ecosystem: Seamless Xiaomi Home App Integration

CUKTECH is bringing IoT innovation to the world of charging. Through the Xiaomi Home App, Filipino users can remotely control port switches, set "Delay Poweroff" timers, and switch between four intelligent charging strategies tailored for different usage scenarios.

Visual Interaction: Every Watt Accounted For

The standout feature of the 10 Ultra is its 1.57-inch full-color versatile screen. This HD display provides real-time transparency, allowing users to monitor per-port power, voltage, current, and internal operating temperatures. The screen also supports 90° auto-rotation, ensuring the UI stays upright no matter how the charger is plugged in.

Universal Compatibility: Redefining Ultra-High Power

The 10 Ultra supports up to 120W Max HyperCharge, optimized for the entire Xiaomi ecosystem and fully compatible with major protocols including PD, PPS, QC, and FCP. Whether it is the latest iPhone 17 Pro Max, the Samsung S26 Ultra, or high-demand laptops like the MacBook Pro 16, the 10 Ultra utilizes ADC 2.0 Adaptive Charging to intelligently match the optimal current for every device.

Local Appreciation: Launch Exclusive Offers Until April 30

To celebrate its arrival in the Philippines, CUKTECH is rolling out exclusive launch deals on Shopee, featuring a suite of limited-time incentives:

Launch Special Price: Get an instant ₱200 discount voucher, bringing the price down to just ₱2,799 for this flagship device.

Bundle & Save: Purchase two or more units at once and enjoy an extra 5% discount.

Limited-Edition Freebie: Every purchase of the 10 Ultra Charger comes with a complimentary battery (while stocks last).

Free Shipping: Enjoy nationwide free shipping with no hidden delivery costs.

"The Philippines is a core market for CUKTECH's Southeast Asian expansion," says the CUKTECH Overseas Marketing Manager. "The 10 Ultra Charger signifies that we aren't just providing power-we are providing a smart management solution for the digital lives of our Filipino customers."
Hashtag: #CUKTECH

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

As Digital Lending Grows in Singapore, Lending Bee® Strengthens Cybersecurity and Data Protection Standards

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 05:39:57 +0200

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - As digital lending continues to grow in Singapore, borrowers are placing greater emphasis on both convenience and the security of their personal information.

Lending Bee® has responded to these evolving expectations by strengthening its digital capabilities alongside its cybersecurity and data protection standards. As a licensed money lender in Singapore, the company continues to invest in technology and governance to deliver a safer and more reliable borrowing experience.

Recognised by the Singapore FinTech Association (SFA) with the SFA FinTech Certificate under the Credit Assessment and Lending category, Lending Bee® has established itself as a digitally progressive player within the regulated lending space. The recognition reflects its role in advancing the digitalisation of traditional moneylending processes within a regulated framework.

Through its proprietary digital solutions and mobile-enabled services, Lending Bee® has streamlined personal loan application processes, allowing customers to receive outcomes more quickly and with greater transparency. This approach reflects the company's focus on improving accessibility while maintaining responsible lending practices.

At the same time, Lending Bee® has strengthened its cybersecurity framework to ensure that customer information remains protected in an increasingly digital environment. The company has upgraded its IT infrastructure with enhanced security architecture, improved system isolation, and reinforced monitoring capabilities to better detect and mitigate potential risks.

Access control measures have also been further strengthened, alongside enhancements to user access management processes such as regular reviews and improved authentication practices, to reinforce accountability across the organisation.

To align with national cybersecurity standards, Lending Bee® has initiated its roadmap towards obtaining Singapore's Cyber Essentials certification, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining high standards of data protection and system security.

Beyond internal systems, the company has enhanced its vendor governance and compliance processes, including periodic assessments and independent evaluations, to ensure that third-party partners meet stringent data protection requirements.

Lending Bee® has also implemented a comprehensive Data Protection Policy in accordance with the Personal Data Protection Act (PDPA), covering the secure collection, storage, and handling of customer information, as well as clear protocols for data governance and accountability.

"Digital innovation should never come at the expense of trust," said Liu Xiao, Managing Director at Lending Bee Pte. Ltd. "As we continue to modernise the borrowing experience, we are equally committed to strengthening cybersecurity, data protection, and responsible lending standards for our customers."

By combining digital innovation with strong governance and security practices, Lending Bee® aims to provide borrowers in Singapore with a safer, more reliable, and more transparent lending experience. More information is available at https://www.lendingbee.com.sg/.
Hashtag: #LendingBee #DigitalLending #FinTech #Cybersecurity #DataProtection

https://www.lendingbee.com.sg/

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Lending Bee Pte. Ltd.

Lending Bee Pte. Ltd. is a licensed money lender in Singapore regulated by the Ministry of Law, providing personal loans, expatriate loan solutions, and short-term financial assistance to individuals across Singapore. Recognised by the Singapore FinTech Association with the SFA FinTech Certificate under the Credit Assessment and Lending category, Lending Bee® combines proprietary digital lending technology with rigorous cybersecurity and data protection standards to deliver a transparent and trustworthy borrowing experience.

48% of Singaporean Divers Unaware of Taiwan's Dive Offerings: TTA at ADEX 2026

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 02:39:39 +0200

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - Most Singaporeans have already ticked off Taipei's night markets and Alishan's morning mists. But the real discovery is happening 30 metres beneath the surface. At ADEX (Asia Dive Expo) 2026 in Singapore, the Taiwan Tourism Administration (TTA) revealed a striking finding: 48% of surveyed Singaporean divers were unawared of Taiwan's diving offerings-and 50% have never dived its waters. (Survey conducted on-site at ADEX 2026, with over 1,000 respondents.)

Just over four hours from Changi Airport. Visa-free entry. And almost entirely unexplored by Singapore's diving community.

To close that gap, the Taiwan Pavilion returned for its second consecutive year, transforming the Suntec Convention Centre into a gateway to Taiwan's four major aquatic frontiers. This year's headline act: Green Island (Lyudao)-a volcanic gem rising from the Pacific that's still well under the radar for most Southeast Asian travellers.

Green Island: Taiwan's Most Underrated Dive Destination

Green Island is not just another dive site. Swept by the warm Kuroshio Current, the island delivers visibility that regularly exceeds 30 metres-a "liquid glass" effect that few dive sites in Southeast Asia can match.

The Ancient Guardian: Divers can encounter the "Big Mushroom," a living coral structure believed to be over 1,000 years old-a humbling reminder of what the ocean can sustain when left in peace.
The World's Deepest Postbox: At the Shilang Diving Area, you can mail waterproof postcards from the world's deepest underwater mailbox (11 metres down). It's the kind of quirky detail that makes travel worth talking about.
Dive by Day, Soak by Night: Green Island is home to the Zhaori Saltwater Hot Springs-one of the rare seawater hot springs globally. Trading your wetsuit for a poolside soak at sunset is the kind of contrast that turns a trip into a story.

Xiaoliuqiu: Taiwan's Best Island Escape Off the Clock

Floating off the coast of Pingtung, this compact coral island is one of the few places on Earth where wild sea turtles are so at home, they've practically become locals-surfacing beside snorkelers with an ancient calm.

The Locals Who Never Leave: Xiaoliuqiu hosts one of Taiwan's densest populations of green sea turtles. With a professional dive guide leading you beneath the surface, an underwater encounter with a creature that has outlived the dinosaurs becomes less a lucky sighting and more a near-certainty.
Dive by Day, Own the Night: When the sun drops, Xiaoliuqiu doesn't go quiet-it shifts gear entirely. Night ecology tours reveal a different cast of creatures, and the evening ends not at a hotel bar but around a fire with fresh BBQ seafood under a sky with almost zero light pollution. That's the kind of night that still feels real a week later.

Penghu: The Basalt Archipelago With a Coral Heart

Anchored in the Taiwan Strait and shaped by seasonal winds that have carved its basalt coastline for millennia, Penghu delivers a version of Taiwan that feels genuinely off-script-ancient, oceanic, and spectacular on its own terms.

The Bridge That Crosses the Sea: At nearly 2.5 kilometres, the Penghu Cross-Sea Bridge is the kind of infrastructure that earns its own mythology. Drive it at golden hour, with open water stretching in every direction, and a standard itinerary starts to feel like an expedition.
Taiwan's Best-Kept Secret Island: Huching Islet-once named one of the world's top ten secret islands-greets visitors with towering basalt columns, cats that outnumber people, and a pace of life that has no interest in catching up with the mainland. It's 20 minutes by boat from Magong, and a different world entirely.
The Double Heart in the Sea: At the southern tip of the archipelago, Qimei Island's twin stone fish traps curve into two interlocking hearts-built centuries ago by fishermen, now one of Taiwan's most iconic images. The rare landmark that earns its reputation without trying.
The Coral That Grows Back: Penghu's coral restoration programme lets travellers do something rarer than sightseeing-actively participate in reef recovery, planting coral fragments on underwater nurseries alongside marine biologists. The most meaningful souvenir you can't bring home.

Sustainability: More Than a Trend

With 45.8% of surveyed divers aged 25-34 expressing strong interest in eco-conscious travel, the Pavilion put sustainable diving front and centre. World-renowned underwater photographer Yorko Summer appeared alongside conservationists Peggy (TurtleSpot Taiwan) and NT (Penghu Reef Restoration) to demonstrate how Taiwan is going beyond tourism rhetoric into genuine marine stewardship-3D-printed eco-substrates, sea turtle nesting patrols, and active reef monitoring. Singaporean divers aren't just being invited to visit-they're being invited to contribute.

World-Class Gear, Made in Taiwan

The Pavilion also shone a light on Taiwan's homegrown dive industry. Brands including ATMOS, 123 Underwater Lab, and DIVEVERYDAY demonstrated that the "Made-in-Taiwan" (MIT) spirit extends well beyond electronics and manufacturing-into world-class dive technology ready for Singapore's most discerning enthusiasts.

"Taiwan offers abundant and diverse travel resources, enabling visitors to experience mountains, ocean, cuisine, and culture within a single short trip."

- Taiwan Tourism Administration, Singapore Office

As ADEX 2026 makes clear, Taiwan's dive scene represents one of the most significant untapped opportunities in the Singaporean travel market. For divers looking for somewhere extraordinary-somewhere most of their friends haven't been yet, just a short flight away-the Pacific has been keeping a secret.

It's time to dive in.

Hashtag: #ADEX2026

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

BleeqUp Launches World's First 4-in-1 Sports Camera Glasses in Singapore

Mon, 20 Apr 2026 01:19:31 +0200

The BleeqUp Ranger debuts locally, featuring Sony 16MP imaging, open-ear audio, and optional ZEISS optics for the ultimate outdoor experience.

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 20 April 2026 - BleeqUp, the innovator in AI-powered sports technology, today announced the official launch of the BleeqUp Ranger in Singapore. Following its global debut at IFA Berlin, the Ranger arrives as the world's first 4-in-1 sports camera glasses to enter mass production, offering a streamlined solution for cyclists, runners, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Weighing less than 50g, the BleeqUp Ranger replaces the need for bulky action cameras, separate headphones, and communication gear. It integrates high-fidelity imaging, long-endurance battery life, and open-ear audio into a single, aerodynamic frame.

Key Highlights :

Available in ZEISS Lenses: Precision-engineered for sharper visuals, reduced distortion, and enhanced contrast in varying light conditions.
Sony's 16MP Camera: Capture POV footage exactly as you see it. With 4K photos and specialized EIS stabilization, the Ranger now supports 3K at 60FPS* video recording.
One-Tap AI Editing: Turn your footage into highlights automatically. Smart scene recognition and AI-driven editing make sharing your best moments faster and easier than ever.
Open-Ear Audio: Stay connected to your surroundings while listening. Four speakers and wind-noise reduction keep music and calls clear, even at speeds up to 40 km/h.
Real-Time Walkie-Talkie: Coordinate with your team on the move. Featuring instant group communication and a dedicated Bluetooth controller, the Ranger keeps you connected without taking your hands off the bars.

*Compatibility Note: Specific feature availability and performance may vary by device model. Please check our official website for the latest compatibility updates.

Availability and Exclusive Launch Offers

Starting April 20, 2026, the BleeqUp Ranger will be available nationwide at premium retailers including Best Denki, Courts, Singtel, Takashimaya, and Sprint-Cass (Changi Airport). For online convenience, customers can purchase the Ranger through the Shopee Official Store, Lazada Official Store, KrisShop and Decathlon Online. To celebrate the launch, exclusive perks such as a SGD 100 voucher (at Singtel) and 50% off accessories (at Takashimaya) will be available for a limited time.

Hashtag: #BleeqUp

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About BleeqUp

Founded in 2022, BleeqUp is dedicated to redefining performance and safety for outdoor adventurers. By combining advanced AI with premium optical design, BleeqUp helps athletes ride further, move smarter, and stay safer.

Celje clinch third national football title

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 18:29:05 +0200

Celje have secured the Slovenian football championship, sealing their third national title and underlining the club's emergence as one of the dominant forces in the top echelons of Slovenian football.

The club confirmed the title with a 2:0 win away to Mura in the 31st round of the Slovenian PrvaLiga on 19 April, opening an unassailable 13-point lead over nearest challengers Koper with only a few matches remaining.

The club has a record of 21 wins, five draws and only four defeats in 30 rounds of play in the domestic championship.

It is the third championship for the club from the eastern Slovenian city of Celje after previous triumphs in the 2019/20 and 2023/24 seasons.

Outstanding season

The title caps a season in which Celje have led the standings almost from the outset, sitting at the top of the table since the third round despite several changes on the bench. The team began the campaign under Spanish coach Albert Riera before a brief spell under interim boss Ivan Majevski.

In March the club appointed Portuguese manager Vítor Campelos on a contract until 2028, and the side responded with a strong run of form, winning six matches in a row to seal the title.

"We're very happy with the third national title. The boys felt that we could seal the deal today," Campelos said after the match. "We are confident in our style of play. When we came to Celje, we brought fresh energy - and this is the secret to our success."

Celje also enjoyed one of the most notable European campaigns in the club's history this season in the UEFA Europa Conference League.

They progressed to the knockout rounds after victories against teams including Legia Warsaw and Shamrock Rovers. Their run ended in the round of 16 against AEK Athens, who advanced 4-2 on aggregate.

And this came after the club reached the quarter-finals of the Conference League in 2024/25, the farthest a Slovenian club has ever come in a European competition.

From also-ran to champion

For much of modern history, Celje was overshadowed by domestic powerhouses Maribor and Olimpija Ljubljana.

But the last several years of successes are a demostration of a rapid rise, with the club now firmly established among the leading sides in Slovenian football and a serious contender in Europe.

Asked about European competitions, the coach said summer obligations were not on his mind yet. "A lot can happen before the Champions League qualifying."

Slovenian choir wins world's top choral prize

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 17:28:36 +0200

The St. Nicholas Choir of Litija, led by conductor Helena Fojkar Zupančič, has won the European Grand Prix for Choral Singing, widely regarded as the world's most prestigious competition for choirs.

The ensemble triumphed in the final round held on 18 April in Slovenia's second largest city Maribor, becoming only the third choir from the country to claim the coveted prize in the competition's more than 30-year history.

Five choirs competed in the final, showcasing ensembles from three continents. Alongside the winners were the Academic Choir Tone Tomšič of the University of Ljubljana, the Delaware Choral Scholars from the United States, Indonesia's Gratia Choir - Soegijapranata Catholic University, and Italy's Sibi Consoni Choir.

The winner was selected by a seven-member international jury of conductors chaired by Indonesian maestro Avip Priatna.

Accepting the prize, Fojkar Zupančič said the achievement reflected Slovenia's deep-rooted choral culture. "Choral singing is an essential part of Slovenian cultural life," she said, adding that the victory showed that "Slovenian choral singing has a visible place in the world."

Before the Litija ensemble's success, the award had been won by Slovenian choirs only twice: by the Academic Choir Tone Tomšič, first under conductor Stojan Kuret and later Urša Lah, and by the Vocal Academy Ljubljana, also led by Kuret.

The competition in Maribor was organised by the Public Fund for Cultural Activities of the Republic of Slovenia, whose director Mojca Jan Zoran highlighted the special role choral singing plays in Slovenia. With thousands of amateur and professional singers across the country, it remains one of Slovenia's most widespread forms of cultural expression and a key source of artistic excellence and community spirit.

The European Grand Prix for Choral Singing brings together the winners of six leading international choral competitions held over the previous year in Arezzo, Debrecen, Tours, Varna, Tolosa, and Maribor.

Monash IVF Singapore Spotlights Male Factor Infertility for National Infertility Awareness Week (NIAW)

Sun, 19 Apr 2026 03:17:04 +0200

SINGAPORE - Media OutReach Newswire - 19 April 2026 - In conjunction with National Infertility Awareness Week (19-25 April 2026), Monash IVF Singapore, alongside partners like Fertility Support Singapore, is shifting the spotlight to a long-overlooked narrative: male factor infertility.

Monash IVF Singapore National Infertility Awareness Week

While fertility discussions often centre on women, statistics show that male factors contribute to approximately 50% of all infertility cases. Male factor infertility can arise from a range of factors, including low sperm count, reduced sperm motility, abnormal sperm morphology, hormonal imbalances, genetic conditions, or underlying medical issues. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, alcohol consumption, stress, and environmental exposures may also affect sperm quality over time.

Despite its prevalence, male factor infertility is often less discussed in Singapore, which can lead to delays in assessment and treatment. Early evaluation, including semen analysis and medical consultation, can help identify potential concerns and guide appropriate next steps for couples.

To support greater awareness, Monash IVF is launching a series of digital educational content aimed at de-stigmatising male reproductive health and providing actionable insights for men to take charge of their fertility. These resources will cover common causes of male infertility, when to seek medical advice, and the types of assessments and treatment options available. By making this information more accessible, the clinic aims to encourage earlier evaluation and more open conversations about male factor infertility, both within relationships and in the wider community.

As Singapore's demographic landscape evolves, Monash IVF Singapore is contributing to broader discussions on reproductive health. With the national Total Fertility Rate (TFR) reaching a record low of 0.87 in 2025, the need for comprehensive and patient-centred fertility care continues to grow.

Understanding Modern Fertility Challenges: Beyond Biological Factors

The decline in fertility is not merely a biological hurdle but a reflection of the intense pressures that Singaporeans face today. The "workplace rat race", high-stress environments, and environmental factors have contributed to a trend of delayed parenthood. Many individuals are choosing to start families later due to career progression, financial considerations, and evolving life priorities. At the same time, age remains a key factor, as both egg and sperm quality may decline over time.

As such, these same pressures do not just delay parenthood; they also make it more difficult for individuals to pursue fertility treatments in Singapore. Managing appointments, coping with the physical and emotional demands of treatment, and balancing work responsibilities can become an added strain for many.

"Fertility is often treated as a private struggle, but it is a societal challenge," says June Jonet, Marketing and Business Development Head of Monash IVF Singapore. "We are calling for greater understanding and support within the workplace. Employees undergoing fertility treatments or preservation need an environment that recognises the physical and emotional toll of this journey, rather than one that penalises them for it."

Monash IVF's Approach to Assisted Reproductive Care

Monash IVF Singapore's clinical and laboratory team is led by Chief Embryologist Ng Pei Hui, supported by a team of senior embryologists and Fertility Specialists, including Dr Kelly Loi, Dr Suresh Nair, and Dr Yap Lip Kee.

The clinic applies a range of established assisted reproductive techniques to enhance success rates, tailored to individual clinical needs. These include:

Piezo-ICSI: A fertilisation method that uses a blunt needle with high-speed vibration to gently penetrate eggs and assist sperm injection. It may be considered in cases involving fragile oocytes or advanced maternal age.
IMSI: A technique that uses high-magnification imaging to support sperm selection, enabling embryologists to identify and avoid sperm with morphological abnormalities, such as vacuoles.
PICSI: A method of biological sperm selection using hyaluronic acid to help identify mature sperm with a lower likelihood of DNA damage.
Embryoscope+: A time-lapse imaging system that continuously monitors embryo development without disrupting stable culture conditions, supporting the selection of embryos with strong developmental potential for transfer.

The Power of Planning: Fertility Preservation

Alongside treatment, Monash IVF Singapore highlights the importance of proactive planning. As more women and couples choose to delay parenthood, elective egg freezing (a form of fertility preservation) has become a vital tool. At the same time, early assessment of male factor infertility, including semen analysis, can identify potential concerns and help couples prepare more confidently.

"Even with the range of treatments available today, timing still matters," says Chief Embryologist Ng Pei Hui. "Early consultation allows patients to better understand their options and make informed decisions."

With infertility affecting approximately 1 in 6 individuals, it is now recognised as a relatively common medical condition rather than a rare exception. This is why at Monash IVF Singapore, fertility care is not only about addressing challenges as they arise but also about supporting early planning for both men and women. With options such as elective egg freezing, male fertility assessment, and fertility health checks, the clinic aims to help Singaporeans better understand their reproductive health and make informed decisions at different stages of their journey.

For more information about Monash IVF Singapore and what they do, visit their website.
Hashtag: #MonashIVF #malefertility #mensfertility #reproductivehealth #fertilityawareness #menswellness

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Monash IVF Singapore

Monash IVF Singapore is part of the global Monash IVF Group, a pioneer in reproductive medicine since achieving the world's first IVF pregnancy in 1973. We provide a full suite of fertility services, combining compassionate patient care with the latest scientific breakthroughs.

VinFast signs partnerships with 14 e-scooter dealers in the Philippines, accelerating nationwide network expansion

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 10:14:49 +0200

MANILA, PHILIPPINES - Media OutReach Newswire - 18 April 2026 - VinFast today announced the signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) on strategic cooperation with 14 e-scooter distributors in the Philippines. The agreements demonstrate VinFast's ability to rapidly scale its retail network, while further affirming its long-term commitment to advancing green mobility and building a comprehensive electric mobility ecosystem in the Philippines.

VinFast continues to collaborate with leading motorcycle distributors in the Philippines in support of the upcoming June 2026 product launch.

To support its planned product launch in June 2026, VinFast has continued to partner with leading motorcycle distributors in the Philippines, including Wheeltek Motor Sales Corporation; Gentrade International Phils., Inc. (Transcycle); Superbikes Corporation; Motoxpress Sales Corporation; FMN Industrial Corp.; Eduhome Enterprise, Inc.; Keymotors Incorporated; Motorpro by Abenson Ventures Inc. and Aserco; Moto Atelier Inc.; Ciclo Suerte; HG Motorzone; HGC Main Marketing (Motorboy); BLC Cycle Parts Supply; and Auto Ten Trade & Services Corp. Similar to the partners signed in January 2026, these partners have extensive networks, demonstrate strong operational capabilities, and possess longstanding experience in the motorcycle business, alongside a clear orientation toward the green transition.

VinFast and its partners will collaborate to rapidly roll out a showroom network across the market, with many outlets expected to be launched in parallel at the time of product introduction, laying the foundation for accelerated expansion of nationwide sales and after-sales services. The showrooms will be developed in high-demand areas with strong potential for green transition such as Metro Manila, Metro Davao, Rizal, Laguna, Cavite, Batangas, Metro Cebu, Bulacan, and other major urban provinces, and will adhere to VinFast's global standards for operations and brand identity.

In the initial phase, the network will distribute a portfolio of swappable-battery e-scooters, including Evo, Feliz II, Viper, and other models expected to be launched in the near future, alongside upcoming models that will be further adapted to local infrastructure conditions and consumer usage patterns in the Philippines.

The Philippines is one of Southeast Asia's largest motorcycle markets, characterized by strong demand for personal mobility and rapid urbanization. Amid fuel price volatility and a growing shift toward sustainable solutions, e-scooters are emerging as a promising pathway, particularly when supported by an integrated ecosystem.

VinFast is pioneering the development of a comprehensive e-scooter ecosystem in the Philippines, encompassing dealer networks, after-sales services, financing solutions, and energy infrastructure. Notably, the company aims to deploy approximately 30,000 battery-swapping stations nationwide in the near term, in collaboration with infrastructure partners, to deliver a convenient and flexible user experience.

Earlier in 2026, VinFast announced plans to expand its e-scooter business across five key international markets, including the Philippines, Indonesia, India, Thailand, and Malaysia, as part of its global strategy to scale a green mobility ecosystem.

Ms. Vo Thi Cam Tu, Managing Director of VinFast E-Scooters Overseas Market, said: "Our partnerships with 14 major dealers in the Philippines mark an important step in rapidly establishing a strong distribution and service foundation from the outset. We are not only introducing products tailored to local needs, but also developing an integrated ecosystem, from battery-swapping infrastructure to after-sales services, enabling consumers to access and adopt e-scooters in a convenient, efficient, and sustainable manner."

In recent years, VinFast has steadily built its presence across key Southeast Asian markets, including the Philippines, through a diverse electric vehicle portfolio and strategic partnerships in infrastructure and services. The expansion into e-scooters further completes its green mobility ecosystem in the market and the region, while providing consumers with more flexible options in the transition to sustainable transportation.

Hashtag: #VinFast

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Slovenian psychology pioneer honoured in Brno

Sat, 18 Apr 2026 05:42:31 +0200

The Czech city of Brno has honoured Slovenian psychologist Mihajlo Rostohar, a pioneer of modern psychology whose work helped shape the discipline across Central Europe.

A commemorative plaque dedicated to Rostohar (1878-1966) was unveiled this week at the Faculty of Arts of Masaryk University, marking the centenary of the university's Department of Psychology. Rostohar founded the institute in 1926, laying the foundations for experimental psychology in what is now the Czech Republic.

Born in the village of Brege near the Slovenian town of Krško, then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, Rostohar built much of his academic career in the Czech lands. He established one of the first psychology laboratories in Prague and later moved his research activities to Brno, where he became a central figure in developing psychology as an experimental discipline.

Despite his international career, Rostohar remained deeply connected to his homeland. He was a strong advocate for the creation of University of Ljubljana, Slovenia's first university, and helped lay the groundwork for its psychology department.

A committed public intellectual, Rostohar also played an active role in political life at the end of the First World War, when Slovenians joined other South Slavs in forming a new state.

The unveiling ceremony formed part of a series of events celebrating 100 years of psychology studies in Brno. Among those attending was Vesna Humar, state secretary at Slovenia's Government Office for Slovenians Abroad.

During the visit, Humar presented an award to Alena Šamonilova, head of the Czech-Slovenian Association, recognising her work in bringing together the Slovenian community in the Czech Republic and strengthening ties between the two countries.

Humar also expressed support for plans to erect a statue of Rostohar in Brno in recognition of the scholar whose work helped forge enduring cultural and academic links between Slovenia and the Czech Republic.

"We will join forces and try to erect a monument here in Brno to our great Slovenian scholar from Krško," she said. "In this way the memory of his contribution and his work will be preserved for future generations."