In Oudomxay Province, a report has emerged indicating that 674 cases of forest encroachment, forest destruction, and forest fires were recorded in 2024.
GC Labs strengthens global ties and explores new opportunities at Medlab Middle East 2025
YONGIN, South Korea, Feb. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — GC Labs, a leading clinical laboratory in South Korea, announced the successful completion of the second day of the Medlab Middle East 2025, which is being held at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), UAE between February 3-6.
An image of GC Labs’ booth installed at Medlab Middle East 2025 held at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), UAE
GC Labs has participated in the MENA region’s largest medical laboratory exhibition and conference for four consecutive years, leveraging its presence at Medlab to strengthen partnerships while actively exploring global market expansion and new business opportunities.
During the first two days of the exhibition, GC Labs achieved remarkable results, generating strong foot traffic and building connections with potential partners. Located at booth Z4.E49, GC Labs showcased its advanced diagnostic testing services, including tests for Alzheimer’s disease and Heavy metal exposure, tailored to meet the specific needs of the Middle Eastern market.
One of the highlights was GC Labs’ innovative digital pathology consulting service, which provides both primary diagnosis and second opinion. By digitalizing specimen slides, GC Labs enables real-time remote diagnosis and consultations for various pathology cases, significantly improving turnaround time and accuracy. Attendees expressed keen interest in the service, recognizing its potential to streamline workflows and to give partners a competitive edge.
In addition, GC Labs engaged in strategic discussions with its existing partners in the Middle East to foster mutual growth. The discussions focused on optimizing testing processes by integrating Laboratory Information System (LIS) through Application Programming Interfaces (APIs). The transfer of test methodologies was also reviewed, along with plans to expand into new business areas beyond the current test send-out business.
GC Labs officials said, “GC Labs finds the positive response and interest generated during the first two days of Medlab Middle East 2025. Our continued presence at this event underscores our commitment to delivering word-class diagnostic solutions and fostering strong partnerships in the region.”
GC Labs will continue to exhibit at Medlab Middle East 2025 until February 6 at booth Z4.E49.
About GC Labs
GC Labs is a Korea’s leading clinical laboratory which provides clinical and pathology reference testing supported by over 40 years of expertise. GC Labs consists of about 800 medical professionals and carries out over 5,000 test items, ranging from routine tests to highly specialized and esoteric assays. GC Labs provides more than 3,500 clients worldwide with unrivalled quality of tests, which is accredited by multiple regulatory agencies and accrediting organizations, such as the College of American Pathologists (CAP), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and others. Under the ultimate mission of ‘Pioneering a better healthcare for humankind’, GC Labs makes relentless efforts to give patients the quickest, the most accurate answers for the best outcomes.
For further information, please visit our website www.gclabs.co.kr/eng.
Government Of The Republic Of Botswana And De Beers Conclude Negotiations On Rough Diamond Sales Agreement

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 February 2025 – The Government of the Republic of Botswana (“GRB”) and De Beers Group (“De Beers”) are pleased to announce the successful conclusion of negotiations focused on establishing a new sales agreement for Debswana’s rough diamond production, as well as extending Debswana’s mining licences beyond 2029. This development is in alignment with the Heads of Terms agreed on September 30, 2023.
Following the issuance of new mining licences by the appropriate regulatory authorities in Botswana and final governance approvals, both parties look forward to signing and executing the relevant agreements. Until the execution of these new agreements, the terms of the existing agreements will continue to remain in effect.
The GRB and De Beers reaffirm their commitment to their enduring partnership, which has lasted over 50 years. This collaboration is aimed at the responsible recovery, marketing, and sale of diamonds, ensuring the sustainability of the global diamond industry while enhancing the significant fiscal and societal contributions that diamonds provide to Botswana.
The GRB and De Beers remain steadfast in their dedication to fostering a robust and sustainable diamond sector that positively impacts the nation’s economy and supports the welfare of its citizens.
Hashtag: #DeBeersGroup #Debswana
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The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Botswana
The Botswana government has placed a strong emphasis on the effective management of its diamond resources, recognizing their pivotal role in the nation’s economic development. By exercising careful oversight and strategic partnerships, Botswana maximizes revenue from diamond sales, strengthen its
position as a key player in the global diamond market and ensuring that these valuable resources drive sustainable socio-economic growth. With a focus on sustainable practices, the government is dedicated to ensuring that the wealth generated from diamond mining contributes significantly to the welfare of its
citizens. Revenue from these sales is strategically reinvested to foster growth, infrastructure development, and social programs, ultimately positioning Botswana as a stable and prosperous socio-economic hub in the region. This commitment underscores the government’s vision of enhancing the livelihoods of its people while promoting overall national prosperity, thereby solidifying Botswana’s reputation as a forward-thinking and resilient nation in the face of global economic challenges.
About De Beers Group
Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with diamond mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers Jewellers and Forevermark, and other pioneering solutions such as diamond sourcing and traceability initiatives Tracr and GemFair. De Beers Group also provides leading services and technology to the diamond industry in the form of education and laboratory services via De Beers Institute of Diamonds and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology systems via De Beers Group Ignite. De Beers Group is committed to ‘Building Forever,’ a holistic and integrated approach for creating a better future – where safety, human rights and ethical integrity continue to be paramount; where communities thrive and the environment is protected; and where there are equal opportunities for all. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo-American plc group. For further information, visit
www.debeersgroup.com.
Democrats Blast Musk as USAID Agency HQ Shutters

By Frankie TAGGART/AFP – The United States government’s giant humanitarian agency closed its headquarters to staff on 3 February amid moves by Elon Musk, the world’s richest person and President Donald Trump’s controversial aide, to seize control in actions decried by critics as “plain illegal.”
Pets found to be ‘Millennials’ best friend’ with the generation depending more on their pets than any other
BRISBANE, Australia, Feb. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — More than 50% of millennial Aussies have a pet for mental health reasons or as a support animal, a new survey has revealed. Rather than being a man’s best friend, pets it seems are these days, millenials’ best friends.
A poll of 1000 Australians from leading pet insurer Budget Direct found more than 71% of millennials (28-37 year olds) said they got their pet for companionship, while close to 40% said they got their pet solely to help improve their mental health.
With millennials seen as being more open about mental health issues and normalising therapy, it’s no wonder they are the generation that depends on their pets the most.
“Like many pet owners, it’s clear that millennials consider their pets as part of their family. But the fact that almost 15% acquired their pets solely to be their support animal shows how emotionally important they are to this group,” a Budget Direct spokesperson said.
“We share such a special bond with our dogs and cats and this really shows just how much we value companionship. Whether it’s social quality play time with the pet or taking them on walks in the park or beach, there’s no doubt about the happiness and contentment our furry friends provide.”
When delving deeper into the survey, nearly 30% of cat owners were more likely to acquire their pets for mental health reasons compared to 25% of dog owners. But when it comes to pet ownership, more than 60% of Aussies own a dog, compared to 31% who own a cat.
Support animals offer emotional stability to those with conditions like anxiety or depression and their companionship is key to their support rather than having undergone specific training.
Any pet can improve quality of life and provide emotional support, regardless of where they come from–pedigree or rescue pets.
Nearly 30% of respondents said they acquired their oldest or only pet from a shelter, with 19% of those surveyed being gifted their pet.
For the full breakdown and further insights from the Budget Direct Australian Pet Survey visit here.
DISCLAIMER
Insurance is arranged by Auto & General Services Pty Ltd (ABN 61 003 617 909, AFSL 241 411, Registered Office: 13/9 Sherwood Rd, Toowong 4066) on behalf of the insurer, Auto & General Insurance Company Limited ABN 42 111 5 86 353.
Cristiano Ronaldo Life Museum Set to Open in Hong Kong: A Celebration of a Football Legend
Tickets to immersive cultural attraction set to honor football icon’s inspiring career go on sale from 5th February
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 February 2025 – The highly anticipated Cristiano Ronaldo Life Museum is set to open its doors in July 2025 at K11 Art & Cultural Centre (6F, Kunsthalle), K11 MUSEA in Tsim Sha Tsui. The grand opening will feature several international celebrities, marking a monumental celebration of the football legend’s illustrious career. This state-of-the-art museum celebrates Cristiano Ronaldo’s career and the power of ambition, passion, perseverance and hard work; a beacon of inspiration for fans and visitors.

Featuring state-of-the-art interactive exhibits, rare memorabilia, and motivational storytelling, the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum offers an immersive experience designed to inspire greatness. The Cristiano Ronaldo Museum is designed to be a place where visitors not only celebrate the accomplishments of a global icon but also reflect on their own aspirations. Aimed at empowering youth and dreamers, the museum features motivational content and inspiring quotes to encourage visitors to unlock their full potential. The museum will be the first of its kind in Asia and aims to attract over 12 million visitors to Hong Kong, providing significant exposure for the city as a global tourist destination.
This initiative presents a unique opportunity for Hong Kong to unite and spread happiness throughout the city. The CR7® LIFE Museum will naturally inspire collaborations across Hong Kong’s hospitality sector, food and beverage outlets, retail businesses, tourism agencies, and the MTR. These synergies are expected to foster a collective movement called “HONG KONG UNITED,” encouraging all sectors to embrace and welcome tourists from around the globe. This organic connection aims to create a positive ripple effect, benefiting the entire city.
Tickets for the museum will go on sale on February 5, 2025, coinciding with Cristiano Ronaldo’s birthday, allowing fans worldwide to partake in this historic opening. Early bird ticket buyers will unlock exclusive benefits at merchandise stores, offering unique opportunities to enhance their CR7® LIFE Museum experience.
On February 5, a grand celebration will take place at the K11 MUSEA promenade to honour Cristiano Ronaldo, a global icon whose impact transcends the world of football. As part of this unique event, attendees can expect extraordinary surprises that promise to make the occasion truly unforgettable, reflecting the unparalleled legacy of this legendary figure.
In addition to the museum, two flagship merchandise stores will open in Tsim Sha Tsui and on Hong Kong Island between March and April 2025. Spanning over 3,000 square feet each, these stores will be the first of their kind in the world, offering exclusive Cristiano Ronaldo signed merchandise and memorabilia.
The opening of the Cristiano Ronaldo Museum at K11 MUSEA promises to be a landmark event in Hong Kong’s cultural landscape, offering an unparalleled experience for fans and visitors alike.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo is a global icon whose influence extends far beyond the football field. Known not only for his unparalleled skills and record-breaking achievements in the sport but also for his leadership, entrepreneurial ventures, and impactful philanthropic efforts, Ronaldo embodies excellence and inspires millions worldwide.
About K11
K11 is a global cultural brand founded in 2008 by renowned entrepreneur Dr Adrian Cheng. The company’s unique and original business model, “Cultural Commerce”, blends culture, art, and commerce to create an ecosystem that caters to all walks of life. With its headquarters in Hong Kong, the Group has expanded its reach and influence, achieving a significant presence across Greater China. Upholding its core values of Art, People, and Nature, the Group aims to democratise art, incubate cultural talents, advocate sustainable development, and inspire the new generations. In addition to its groundbreaking multi-development project in Hong Kong, Victoria Dockside, K11 Art and Cultural District, the Group operates a wide range of businesses, including retail, workplace, hospitality, and luxury residence.
Looking ahead to the future, K11 is expected to attain a footprint of 38 projects with an approximate GFA of 3 million square meters in 12 cities across Greater China upon completion, and it continues setting new standards in “Cultural Commerce”.
VAIO Re-enters the Singapore Market, Debuts New Laptop

The decision to reestablish operations in Singapore highlights VAIO’s recognition of the market’s unique potential. With its vibrant business ecosystem and strong focus on technological advancement, Singapore serves as an ideal base for VAIO to introduce its latest innovations and engage directly with consumers and businesses, effectively addressing the evolving demands of modern work and lifestyle.
Founded in 1997 as PC brand of Sony Corporation, VAIO established itself as a leader in lightweight and portable laptops and has become synonymous with innovative design and exceptional performance. After becoming an independent entity from Sony in 2014, VAIO has continued to uphold this legacy by focusing on high-quality manufacturing at its head office factory in Azumino City, Nagano Prefecture, located at the foot of the Northern Japan Alps. Today, approximately 90% of VAIO’s sales come from corporate laptops.
Introducing the New Laptop
As part of its re-entry into the market, VAIO is proud to unveil its latest laptop model, the VAIO® SX14-R for consumers and VAIO® Pro PK-R for business users, both sharing the same core design and performance capabilities. At just 1.08kg, the ultra-lightweight carbon fibre SX14-R and Pro PK-R redefine mobile productivity, offering seamless portability for users and professionals on the move.
The SX14-R and Pro PK-R is equipped with advanced features that enhance the user experience for various work environments. Its AI noise-cancelling function utilises multiple microphones to dramatically improve web conferencing capabilities, ensuring clear communication during virtual meetings, regardless of background noise.
In addition to its impressive performance, the SX14-R and Pro PK-R boast a large-capacity battery that supports extended use without frequent recharging, allowing users to stay engaged without disruption. The thoughtfully designed aesthetics elevate the laptop’s visual appeal, with a selection of colours including a unique deep emerald option.
Masaki Yamano, President and CEO of VAIO Corporation, said: “As we embark on this exciting journey in Singapore, we are dedicated to building strong relationships with local businesses and consumers alike. Our innovative features – such as AI noise-cancelling function and user-sensing capabilities – are designed to meet the needs of professionals and businesses prioritising seamless communication and efficiency. VAIO aims to empower users with technology that elevates their dynamic lifestyles and work experiences.”
Customers can experience and purchase the VAIO SX14-R at Best Denki stores, the authorised reseller of VAIO products, located at VivoCity Mall, Ngee Ann City, and upcoming in Funan Mall in March. Discover firsthand the innovative quality and exceptional performance that define VAIO laptops, now available in Singapore.
Our corporate products, such as the VAIO Pro PK-R, are available through our authorised resellers. Kindly find images of the products here. For more information, please visit: https://www.vaio.com.sg/where-to-buy
Hashtag: #VAIO
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About VAIO
VAIO Corporation, headquartered in Azumino City, Nagano, Japan, was established on July 1, 2014, following a spin-off from Sony’s PC business. With its rich history and product philosophy of being ‘Inspiring,’ ‘Ingenious,’ and ‘Genuine,’ VAIO is committed to delivering exceptional computing experiences and becoming a trusted partner to its users.
For more information about our products and upcoming events, please visit www.vaio.com.sg.
About Unified-1 Solutions Pte. Ltd.
Unified 1 Solutions Pte Ltd is the exclusive Distributor and After Sales Provider for VAIO Products in Singapore. We have a team of skilled professionals that is dedicated to the course of establishing excellent customer’s experiences with VAIO Products.
CoCo Bubble Tea Makes Single-Store Franchises Available in Japan
For aspiring entrepreneurs, applications are now open for single-store partnerships; leading tapioca tea brand now offering:
- New training resources with programming customized to the Japan market
- Expanded logistics and supply channels
- Expanded operations support domestically
- A trust-based partnership with competitive terms for ensuring profitability and business success
TOKYO, Feb. 4, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Leading tapioca tea brand CoCo Bubble Tea is announcing it will offer single-store franchise partnerships in Japan for the first time ever. To further facilitate partner success, the brand is also expanding training programs, operations support, and supply channels dedicated to the Japanese market, aiming to empower franchisees to fully harness the growth of Japan’s tapioca tea market. To share this opportunity with aspiring individual entrepreneurs, CoCo will attend the Japan International Franchise Show 2025 on March 5-7 (Booth 3034, South Hall 1, 3, 4, Tokyo International Exhibition Center).
To explore opening a tapioca tea shop with CoCo Bubble Tea, please contact: coco@coco-tea.com
Or visit: https://bit.ly/3OFKWWC
“CoCo has been dedicated to serving Japanese consumers the very best tapioca tea for eight years, and we are now aiming to do even better by significantly growing our franchisee network,” notes Kody Wong, Director of Business Development at CoCo Bubble Tea. “We continue to see ample growth opportunity here. With expanded support, favorable arrangements, and a proven model of business success with CoCo, these latest moves will unleash this growth while helping aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams.”
Continuing success in Japan’s growing market
CoCo has achieved consistent success in Japan since its first store opening in January 2017. Through its effective business model and steadfast dedication, the brand has diligently established itself as one of the major tapioca tea players in Japan.
Recently, CoCo has drawn significant interest from entrepreneurs seeking to establish a bubble tea franchise business in Japan, ranging from young tapioca tea enthusiasts to family businesses. Besides increasing demand, the move to open up single-store franchise partnerships is also driven by the market outlook for Japan, where the tapioca tea market is steadily growing after some difficulty during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Globally, boba tea’s outlook is positive as well. The market is projected to have a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.75% from 2024 to 2031, with the market value expected to grow from $6.01 billion in 2024 to $10.51 billion by 2031, according to the firm Market Research Intellect.
What CoCo offers as a franchise partner
CoCo is highly dedicated to serving Japan’s unique consumer landscape. For franchise partners in the country, it offers several advantages:
- Localized training and supply infrastructure: Including training programs for success in the bubble tea industry and expanded supply and distribution channels to augment flows of boba materials
- Proven success model: A major global footprint and high brand recognition, carrying over directly to the success of each shop; no hidden fees and a trust-based partnership designed for sustained long-term growth
- Competitive terms: An extensive supply chain helps to stabilize costs for partners and offer favorable terms
- Collaborations with popular Japanese brands: CoCo has a partnership with the candy company SENJAKU and has more new collaborations underway
Visit CoCo at Booth 3034 on March 5-7 to learn more.
About CoCo Bubble Tea
CoCo Bubble Tea aims to create a diverse and sustainable community for its consumers by providing visually refreshing products. We continue to be one of the fastest-growing companies and are looking for enterprising partners to join the CoCo Bubble Tea franchise networks. Check CoCo Bubble Tea’s official website and start your application now.
For more information, please visit https://www.coco-tea.com/.