Laos has officially ended its visa exemption and extended stay policy for several countries, which were specifically introduced during Visit Laos Year 2024. Starting 1 January, tourists will need to follow standard visa regulations.
HDBank successfully issues $118m in green bonds for eco-friendly projects

HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 January 2025 – The Ho Chi Minh City Development Joint Stock Commercial Bank (HDBank, stock code: HDB) has issued VND3 trillion (US$118 million) in green bonds, becoming Viet Nam’s first private bank to do so.

The green bonds aim to finance environmentally sustainable projects and promote green economic development with maturities of two, three, and five years, aligning with International Capital Market Association (ICMA) and Loan Market Association (LMA) compliance standards.
The green bonds have attracted considerable interest from prominent institutional investors, achieving full order volume within a remarkably short timeframe.
The capital raised from these green bonds will be allocated to projects that align with the criteria outlined in HDBank’s “Sustainable Finance Framework,” with the aim of contributing to environmental protection and advancing green economic development.
Prior to the issuance, HDBank was already among the first banks in Viet Nam to announce a “Sustainable Finance Framework” in accordance with the standards of ICMA and LMA.
Developed with help from the IFC, a member of the World Bank (WB), this framework received a “very good” rating from Moody’s.
Phạm Quoc Thanh, CEO of HDBank, said, “The launch of the Sustainable Finance Framework and green bonds demonstrates the bank’s commitment to sustainable development.
“This initiative promotes green growth and mobilizes long-term capital for projects that reduce CO2 emissions and support the government’s carbon neutrality goal by 2050.”
HDBank is also one of the first banks in Viet Nam to establish an environmental and social risk management system aimed at promoting green credit and sustainable finance.
For several years, the lender has received accolades from international institutions like IFC, ADB, DEG, and Proparco for its climate finance and gender equality initiatives.
The bank was also the first in Viet Nam to form an ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) Committee to oversee sustainable development.
In 2024, it published a report on Vietnamese sustainable development.
In 2024, it was recognised for the fifth consecutive year as one of the Top 20 in the Vietnam Sustainable Development Index (VNSI) by the Ho Chi Minh City Stock Exchange (HoSE).
Hashtag: #HDBank
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Bupa Hong Kong Partners with Mannings to Launch Bupa x Mannings PharmaCare Programme
First insurance provider in Hong Kong to empower members with accessible pharmacy consultations for minor ailments
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 January 2025 – Bupa Hong Kong, the leading health insurance specialist, is proud to announce the launch of the Bupa x Mannings PharmaCare Programme (“PharmaCare Programme”) in partnership with Mannings, Hong Kong’s largest health and beauty chain. This initiative makes Bupa the first insurer in Hong Kong to offer members cashless consultations for minor ailments (please refer to the below) at over 60 Mannings pharmacy locations across the city.

The PharmaCare Programme provides Bupa members with a convenient alternative to clinic visits for general health concerns. Members can receive on-the-spot consultations from registered pharmacists at designated Mannings pharmacies by simply presenting their Bupa medical card and ID card. Pharmacists can give advice for managing minor ailments and dispense appropriate medications if needed. A pharmacists’ note can be provided upon request. All dispensed medications are covered under cashless services for eligible members, offering a quick and efficient solution for minor health needs.
“We are thrilled to partner with Mannings to offer our members accessible care and peace-of-mind through the PharmaCare Programme,” said Yuman Chan, General Manager of the Bupa Insurance Business in Hong Kong. “As the first insurance provider in Hong Kong to offer cashless pharmacy consultations, Bupa is dedicated to delivering exceptional healthcare experiences through innovative solutions while prioritising our customers’ needs. This initiative will empower over 150,000 Bupa members to manage their health by leveraging their insurance coverage, further reinforcing our commitment to helping people live longer, healthier, happier lives and making a better world.”
Alex Liu, Managing Director, Mannings Hong Kong, Macau & China noted, “As a community pharmacy, Mannings introduced the first-of-its-kind PharmaCare Programme to address the emerging healthcare needs in 2023.We aim to support our business partners and their members by providing convenient and efficient community healthcare services through our network of over 60 Mannings stores, all staffed by registered pharmacists and without the need for appointments. It is designed to ensure members to receive timely treatment and more recovery time.
We are excited to collaborate with Bupa on the PharmaCare Programme which is a pioneer initiative in Hong Kong and hope to raise the awareness about employee wellbeing. Together with the public, we aim to safeguard people’s health and create a win-win outcome.”
When covered by Bupa’s insurance policy, members can enjoy seamless access to consultations and medications. The PharmaCare Programme is designed to enhance healthcare accessibility for Bupa members, allowing them to promptly and effectively address common health concerns including:
- Cold and flu
- Allergies
- Pain and aches
- Gastrointestinal conditions
- Minor skin conditions (Including Athlete’s foot, Eczema, minor burns, and skin allergies)
For more information about the Bupa x Mannings PharmaCare Programme or to locate a designated pharmacy near you, please visit myBupa customer service portal.
Hashtag: #BupaHK #Mannings #PharmaCareProgramme #保柏香港 #萬寧 #藥健保障計劃
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Bupa – A health insurance specialist
Bupa is an international healthcare group dedicated to helping people live longer, healthier, happier lives and making a better world for over 70 years. We serve more than 38 million customers worldwide. With no shareholders, we reinvest our profits into enhancing healthcare for the benefit of current and future customers.
Bupa has been a health insurance specialist in Hong Kong since 1976, offering one-stop solutions across domestic and international health insurance, and healthcare services. Our comprehensive medical insurance schemes are tailored to meet individual needs, and we provide health solutions for companies of all sizes. We also have a team of registered nurses, health management professionals, and doctors who provide various expert healthcare support.
Our healthcare provision arm, Quality HealthCare Medical Services (QHMS), became part of Bupa in October 2013. QHMS offers Western Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Diagnostics & Imaging, Dental, Physiotherapy, Mental Health and Wellness services via a network of over 1,650 provider service points in Hong Kong.
For more information, visit www.bupa.com.hk/en/.
About Mannings
Mannings is Hong Kong’s largest health and beauty products chain store with over 300 outlets and over 60 in-store pharmacies operating in Hong Kong and Macau, providing a wide range of quality health care, personal care, skin care and baby products to customers. Our team of community healthcare professionals are available at many of our stores, offering expert advice and free consultations from registered pharmacists, dieticians, beauty and health advisors. Mannings Plus has been awarded by the Hong Kong Retail Management Association (HKRMA) as “Quality Service Retailer of the Year – Personal Care Products Category” for 12 consecutive years (2011 to 2022). Mannings Baby was awarded the same recognition in 2023. Mannings has also been recognised as the “No.1 Most Preferred Brand” in online surveys conducted by global market research company Ipsos in Hong Kong for 3 consecutive years (2021 to 2023).
Thailand’s Luxury Real Estate Market Hits New Heights as Botanica Luxury Villas Unveils Portfolio Expansion

PHUKET, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 January 2025 – Amid booming demand in Thailand’s luxury real estate market, Phuket-based developer Botanica Luxury Villas has announced plans for significant portfolio expansion following record-breaking sales of THB1.2 billion in a single month in 2024. This comes as Phuket’s villa market reaches a historic THB160-170 billion, with villa launches surpassing condominium launches for the first time in 15 years. Demand continues to surge, particularly from Russian and European buyers seeking second homes and investment properties.
Botanica Luxury Villas has already extended its reach beyond Phuket, with successful developments in Krabi and Hua Hin. Both locations attract growing interest from European, Australian, and Chinese buyers seeking high-end vacation homes. These areas offer rental yields of 6-8% annually, reflecting Thailand’s growing position in the luxury real estate sector.
“The luxury villa market in Thailand, particularly in resort destinations, continues to show remarkable resilience and growth,” said Attasit Intarachooti, CEO of Botanica Luxury Phuket Co., Ltd. “Data from Colliers Thailand shows significant price appreciation in prime areas, with top villas in Kamala and Bang Tao reaching THB296.2 million and THB270 million, respectively.”
The company’s portfolio includes 27 projects across three major tourist destinations. Its 2025 pipeline features several mixed-use developments designed to elevate the region’s luxury offerings. A key highlight is “Botanica Grand Avenue,” a THB12-billion mega-project near Phuket’s Bang Tao Beach, which includes “HYTHE by Botanica,” the company’s first luxury condominium project, already securing 40% of pre-launch sales.
Additionally, a THB18-billion high-end condominium project is under development in Cherng Talay, just 500 meters from Bang Tao Beach. This landmark project will feature an art-inspired walking street and upscale retail spaces, positioning the area as a luxury lifestyle hub.
These expansions align with Thailand’s broader strategy to establish its resort destinations as global luxury hotspots. Recent data reveals the Phuket villa segment launched 1,285 new units across 65 projects in the first half of 2024 alone, valued at THB36 billion.
To support this growth, Botanica Luxury Villas has unveiled a new 1,885-square-meter headquarters, which will serve as a one-stop service center for international clients and investors. For a limited time, it is offering exclusive opportunities in its premium projects, available until January 31, 2025.
For more information: botanicaluxuryvilla.com
Hashtag: #BotanicaLuxuryVillas
https://www.botanicaluxuryvilla.com/
https://web.facebook.com/botanicaluxuryvilla
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Groom Killed at His Wedding, Suspect Arrested
J.Lashes Celebrates 11 Years of Growth, Innovation, and Commitment to Lash Health

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 January 2025 – J.Lashes, an established name in eyelash care, will celebrate its 11th anniversary on 9 January 2025. Founded in 2013 as a home-based studio, the company has grown into a key player in the eyelash extension industry, with a focus on maintaining lash health while offering innovative eyelash extensions in Singapore.

A Journey of Growth and Innovation
J.Lashes was founded with the goal of providing high-quality eyelash care while ensuring the health of natural lashes. Starting out in a small studio, the company built a loyal client base due to its personalised approach and high standards of service. Over the years, J.Lashes expanded its expertise, travelling internationally to Taiwan, South Korea, the UK, and the US to learn advanced lash extension techniques.
By 2017, the brand had outgrown its home-based roots and opened its first retail location at The Cathay. This expansion continued with additional locations, including Tanjong Pagar and Wheelock Place. In 2023, J.Lashes consolidated its operations into its flagship store at 111 Somerset, a move aimed at providing customers with an enhanced and more comfortable experience.
Commitment to Lash Health and Care Services
From its early days, J.Lashes has focused on the health of natural lashes, ensuring that every extension applied preserves lash integrity. This emphasis on comfort, durability, and aesthetic quality has contributed to the company’s reputation for offering safe, long-lasting lash enhancements. Over the years, J.Lashes has also built strong relationships with its consumer base, reflecting a commitment to customer satisfaction.
Jenny Liu, Founder of J.Lashes, commented: “Reaching our 11th anniversary is a significant milestone for us. We are grateful for the continued support of our customers and the hard work of our team. This journey has been one of innovation, and we look forward to continuing to improve the lash care experience for all who visit us.”
Key Milestones and Achievements
Throughout its development, J.Lashes has achieved notable milestones, including the creation of the TUTU Lash technique and recognition at international lash competitions, such as the 2017 Spanish Lash Art Championship and the 2019 U.S. Miami Lash Competition. These accomplishments reflect the company’s position as a leader in eyelash extensions in Singapore.
In 2024, J.Lashes expanded its product offerings with lash-friendly products such as makeup remover pads and cleansing mousse. These additions support the brand’s commitment to providing a comprehensive approach to lash care, helping customers maintain the health of their lashes beyond eyelash salon visits.
Looking to the Future
As J.Lashes celebrates this milestone, the company remains focused on innovation. Plans include introducing new techniques and eyelash extensions in Singapore to meet the evolving needs of its diverse consumer base.
In celebration of its 11th anniversary, J.Lashes is offering a 20% discount for first-time customers to experience its exceptional services, including the new lightweight lash extensions—Fluffy Blossom Lashes. This limited-time offer invites individuals to explore the brand’s extensive range of premium eyelash extensions and experience first-hand the care and expertise that have made J.Lashes a beloved name in Singapore.
Hashtag: #J.Lashes
https://www.jlashes.sg/
https://www.facebook.com/Jlashessg
https://www.instagram.com/j.lashes/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About J.Lashes
Founded in 2013, J.Lashes is a leading eyelash care studio known for its commitment to the health and enhancement of natural lashes. The brand offers a range of services, with a focus on customer care, comfort, and long-lasting lash health. J.Lashes is headquartered at 111 Somerset. As we continue to expand our range of eyelash extensions in Singapore, our core mission remains the same: to provide high-quality, customised eyelash services that celebrate beauty while caring for your natural lashes.
Maybank’s Insurance Arm, Etiqa Insurance, Pioneers the Return of Takaful Offerings in Singapore
New Shariah-compliant investment-linked product addresses the needs of customers looking for values-based insurance solutions; further strengthening the Group’s Islamic Wealth Management offerings
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 January 2025 – Maybank’s insurance arm, Etiqa Insurance Singapore (Etiqa), today jointly announced the launch of Invest future, Singapore’s first Takaful offering in over a decade, with Maybank Singapore (Maybank) as its exclusive distributor.

Invest future is designed to cater to the growing demand for Islamic financial solutions in Singapore. This investment-linked plan (ILP) is designed to support sustainable wealth accumulation goals through Shariah-compliant investing, tailored for the growing demographic seeking ethical investment options while offering flexibility and protection.
Mr Alvin Lee, Maybank Singapore Country CEO said, “Values-based financial solutions such as Etiqa’s Takaful ILP, is an integral component of Islamic Wealth Management (IWM) offerings based on Shariah principles. Maybank, as the regional offshore IWM hub for Maybank Group in Singapore, is the first Bank here to provide end-to-end values-based financial solutions. And as the exclusive distributor of Etiqa’s Takaful offering – a first in Singapore, we are very pleased to mark another milestone in scaling our capabilities with a comprehensive suite of solutions aligned to the five IWM pillars for customers through their different life stages. This is our ongoing commitment to meet evolving customers’ needs while upholding their values and ethical considerations.”
“We are excited to lead the way in launching Takaful ILP as our inaugural Takaful product in Singapore, recognising that ethical investing is increasingly gaining traction among Singaporeans,” said Raymond Ong, CEO of Etiqa Insurance Singapore. “”Our Takaful ILP promotes Shariah values of mutual cooperation and purposeful investing. By introducing values-based insurance that targets all sectors of the community, we aim to provide ethically crafted, holistic life journey solutions that all customers can trust. We believe that by aligning our products with strong ethical principles, we can create lasting value for our customers and contribute positively to society.”
By extending its insurance solutions with this new product offering, Etiqa Insurance Singapore hopes to offer financial solutions that adhere to the principles of cooperation, fairness, and shared responsibility.
Committing to customers as a priority with values-based insurance
Etiqa Insurance Singapore’s launch of the new values-based insurance is part of the company’s ethos to make insurance accessible, keeping customers’ interests and needs as the core foundation of its product and service offerings.
Unlike traditional insurance plans, which focus solely on financial protection, values-based insurance encompasses a broader perspective of protection that covers the ethical, social and personal concerns of customers. This emerging product offering resonates with the diverse needs and aspirations of policyholders while managing risks, enabling individuals to connect more deeply with their values.
The benefits of values-based insurance include:
- Risk Sharing: Policyholders of a values-based insurance product share the financial risks collectively, leading to a sense of community and shared responsibility among policyholders.
- Purposeful: Values-based insurance plans are aimed at sustaining protection for a group of individuals, rather than maximising profit.
- Transparency: Values-based insurance products offer a more transparent approach in terms of what the policy is invested in, how the funds are paid out, and underwriting profits, if any through stringent reviews by the Shariah advisors to ensure fairness to customers.
Maybank Singapore is the exclusive distributor of Etiqa’s Invest future solution in Singapore.
Note to Editors
About the five IWM pillars:
- Wealth Creation: Creates wealth through Shariah-compliant banking, savings and financial products in line with Islamic principles. It seeks to achieve sustainable and ethical growth over time.
- Wealth Accumulation: Generates and accumulates wealth through Shariah-compliant investment products, and is focused on values-based investing principles.
- Wealth Preservation: Protects the accumulated wealth as aligned with Islamic principles through risk management and Takaful (Islamic insurance).
- Wealth Purification: Purifies wealth through the concept of zakat. Zakat is the giving of alms to the less fortunate, and it is obligatory upon every Muslim who meets the requirements to pay zakat.
- Wealth Distribution: Distributes wealth for future generations, which involves the transfer of wealth or assets through will writing (wasiat), endowment (wakaf) and gift (hibah).
Takaful
Takaful is based on Shariah or Islamic religious law where protection is offered on the Islamic concept of mutual help. Although Takaful must operate according to Islamic cooperative principles, it is not limited to the Muslim community, as anyone who upholds personal ethical and social principles can purchase a Takaful plan for protection needs and objectives.
Invest future
Invest future is Etiqa Insurance Singapore’s first Takaful values-based ILP, designed for those seeking ethical investing aligned with Shariah principles. It is a values-based insurance product designed to combine wealth accumulation with life protection, offering flexible investment options, access to Shariah-compliant funds, and enhanced returns through multiple bonuses. Invest future is certified Shariah compliant by the Financial Shariah Advisory and Consultancy (FSAC) of Singapore Islamic Scholars & Religious Teachers Association (Pergas).
Key benefits of Invest future include:
- Investment bonuses, including start-up bonus up to 80% of first-year premiums, special bonus at 5% of regular premiums from the 6th policy year, and loyalty bonus at 0.2% of account value annually post premium payment term.
- Access to Shariah-compliant funds with investments from as low as S$200 per month with access to reputable, Shariah-compliant regional and global funds.
- Flexible plan options allow for two free partial withdrawals from the 4th policy year, plus options for premium adjustments, top-ups, premium-free periods, and free fund switching.
- Comprehensive coverage includes death and total permanent disability benefits up to 105% of net premiums or account value.
- Legacy and giving options enable policyholders to pledge benefits as a legacy gift to loved ones or *wakaf to charitable organisations (*wakaf is a voluntary charitable endowment from one’s personal belongings or wealth in the form of cash or property for pious and religious causes).
- Guaranteed issuance policy, no health checks needed.
- Option to add on rider for additional coverage subject to underwriting.
To learn more about Invest future, please visit: www.etiqa.com.sg/personal/investments/invest-future
Hashtag: #EtiqaSingapore
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Maybank Singapore
Maybank is the fourth largest financial institution group in ASEAN by assets. It has been ranked the Best Bank in Asia Pacific and Singapore by The Banker in 2023; and the number one domestic bank in Malaysia for trade finance, according to the Euromoney Trade Finance survey in 2024.
Maybank Singapore is one of the Group’s largest overseas operations and a Qualifying Full Bank in Singapore. As at 31 December 2023, Maybank’s total assets in Singapore were approximately S$80.26 billion. With strategically located banking branches and over 2,000 employees in Singapore, Maybank is well-positioned to provide highly personalised services and locally-oriented solutions that will deliver more value to customers.
Etiqa Insurance Pte. Ltd. (Etiqa Insurance Singapore)
Protecting customers since 1961, Etiqa Insurance Singapore is a licensed life and general insurance company regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and governed by the Insurance Act 1966. The local insurer is the Singapore operating entity of Etiqa Insurance Group – a leading insurance and Takaful business in ASEAN offering life and general insurance and family and general Takaful products through its agents, branches, offices and bancassurance network in the region. Etiqa Insurance Singapore is rated ‘A’ by credit rating agency Fitch for the group’s ‘Favorable’ business profile and ‘Very Strong’ capitalisation.
Etiqa Insurance Singapore is owned by Maybank Ageas Holdings Berhad, a joint venture company that combines local market knowledge with international insurance expertise. The company is 69% owned by Maybank, the fourth largest banking group in Southeast Asia, and 31% by Ageas, an international insurance group with footprints across 16 countries and a heritage that spans over 190 years.
HKVAX and Victory Securities Form Strategic Partnership to Advance Virtual Asset Services in Hong Kong

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 January 2025 – Hong Kong Virtual Asset Exchange (HKVAX), a virtual asset trading platform licensed by Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission (SFC), and Victory Securities (8540.HK), a licensed financial services provider, today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing Hong Kong’s virtual asset ecosystem.
This collaboration aims to explore opportunities in virtual asset brokerage and distribution, combining HKVAX’s robust infrastructure and virtual asset capabilities with Victory Securities’ comprehensive financial services platform and established institutional relationships. Together, the two parties will explore opportunities in RWA and tokenization and build a robust ecosystem with the primary goal of increasing opportunities for virtual asset distribution. It will also provide investors with access to high quality, efficiently managed tokenization assets.
“This strategic partnership with Victory Securities represents a significant step forward in our mission to advance Hong Kong’s virtual asset ecosystem,” said Dr. Anthony Ng, Co-Founder and CEO of HKVAX. “By combining our technological expertise with Victory Securities’ deep understanding of traditional financial markets and strong institutional relationships, we are well-positioned to deliver innovative, compliant virtual asset services that meet the sophisticated needs of today’s investors.”
“Our collaboration with Victory Securities comes at a pivotal time in Hong Kong’s development as a virtual asset hub,” said Sam Fok, Co-Founder and COO of HKVAX. “We will work to bridge the gap between traditional finance and virtual assets, creating a more integrated and accessible financial ecosystem for our clients while maintaining the highest standards of security and compliance.”
Victory Securities, with over five decades of market presence, brings extensive expertise in regulated financial activities and a deep understanding of institutional client needs. This collaboration with HKVAX demonstrates both companies’ commitment to fostering innovation within Hong Kong’s regulated virtual asset space.
‘Victory Securities is committed to becoming a diversified virtual asset trading platform. This partnership is expected to provide the joint licensed exchanges with unique virtual asset investment opportunities in the market, further drive market development and maintain competitiveness in the global virtual asset market.’ said Kennix Chan, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Victory Securities.
The partnership represents a significant step in Hong Kong’s virtual asset ecosystem, combining established financial expertise with virtual asset capabilities. Both companies look forward to collaborating on innovative solutions that will benefit investors and contribute to the sustainable growth of Hong Kong’s virtual asset market.
Hashtag: #HKVAX
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About HKVAX
Hong Kong Virtual Asset Exchange (HKVAX) is a virtual asset trading platform licensed by Hong Kong’s Securities and Futures Commission under Type 1 (Dealing in securities) and Type 7 (Providing automated trading services), along with the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance (AMLO) licence. HKVAX aims to be a key global player in virtual finance, headquartered in Hong Kong.
Beyond OTC trading, exchange, and custody services, HKVAX focuses on Security Token Offerings (STO) and Real-World Asset (RWA) tokenization. It combines traditional finance with blockchain technology to serve institutional and professional investors.
HKVAX prioritizes security and compliance. It actively cooperates with regulators to promote industry standards and forms strategic alliances with brokers, Money Service Operators (MSOs), Exchange Traded Fund (ETF) issuers, and other platforms to build a compliant virtual asset ecosystem. Through these efforts, HKVAX drives Hong Kong’s financial innovation and advances the global virtual asset market.
For further information, please visit: www.hkvax.com
About Victory Securities
Victory Securities (stock code: 8540.HK), with over 50 years of history, is a comprehensive full- licensed securities firm licensed by the Securities and Futures Commission, with regulated activities under Type 1, Type 2, Type 4, Type 6, and Type 9. Investors can enjoy Victory Securities’ comprehensive financial services, including Hong Kong and global securities trading, first and second market securities financing, corporate financing (capital markets and bond capital markets), wealth management in various fields. In 2023, Victory Securities became the first and currently only licensed entity in Hong Kong to hold virtual asset trading, advisory, and asset management service licenses issued by the Securities and Futures Commission.
For further information, please visit: www.victorysec.com.hk