Since the Lao-Thai railway’s launch on 20 July, regional connectivity and economic growth in Laos have significantly improved, particularly in the tourism sector. Over 13,000 passengers have traveled the Bangkok-Vientiane route. The railway enhances both passenger and freight transport, creating vital links between Laos and Thailand.
In addition to improving Laos’ access to international markets, the Lao-Thai railway also connects Vientiane, Laos, with Nong Khai, Thailand, serving as a key border crossing. The railway has reduced logistical costs and streamlined the export of Laos’ minerals, agricultural products, and manufactured goods, thus increasing the country’s trade volume.
The upgraded infrastructure brought by the Lao-Thai railway makes Laos more attractive for foreign direct investment. The railway’s operational success could lead to the development of export processing zones and logistics hubs near railway stations.
The Lao government aims to attract 4.6 million international tourists by the end of 2024, generating USD 1.3 billion in revenue. Campaigns like “Visit Laos Year 2024” highlight Laos’ cultural heritage and increase the appeal of rail travel, making tourism more accessible and affordable.
The Lao-Thai Railway has transformed Laos’ regional connectivity and economic landscape. By improving transport links and reducing logistical barriers, the railway strengthens Laos’ position in the Southeast Asian market, boosts trade, attracts investment, and supports tourism growth.
Laos recorded a total foreign trade valuation of USD 1,064 million (Photo credit: VOI)
In September, Laos recorded a total foreign trade valuation of USD 1,064 million, marking a 12 percent decline from August, according to the Lao Trade Portal (LTP). This figure encompasses both exports and imports, excluding electricity.
SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2024 – This year’s Global Data Ecosystem Conference in Shanghai focused on blockchain technology and innovations in how it can be used in different areas.
Shanghai can be a pioneer in exploring advanced technologies, including blockchain and data space, Shen Zhulin, deputy head of the National Data Administration, said at the conference held from Oct. 19 to 20. The city is one of the few places in China chosen to spearhead trials to drastically reduce data circulation and transaction costs while ensuring secure, compliant, and orderly data flow, Shen added.
The Global Data Ecosystem Conference was organized by Yicai Media Group for the fourth straight year. It was co-hosted by Shanghai Data Group and Shanghai Data Service Provider Association, with the support of the Shanghai Data Bureau and the government of Pudong district.
The event showcases achievements in the development of the digital economy, and is also an innovation platform for the digital business ecosystem and an exchange platform for international data cooperation. The National Data Group Alliance, the first equal-rights organization for data groups in China, was also launched at the event to boost tie-ups among data companies nationwide and hasten the growth of the data industry.
By strengthening international data exchange and cooperation, the conference has established a year-round exchange and collaboration mechanism with international organizations, including the Hong Kong Chamber of Data & Digital Commerce Organizing Committee, SGTech, the leading trade association for Singapore’s tech industry, and the International Data Spaces Association to better serve local digital merchants in going global and the entry of global data businesses.
In the future, Shanghai will further promote the sharing and openness of public data, innovate the development and use of public data, build a good digital business ecological environment, and promote the building of international data centers.
Shanghai’s core digital economy was worth more than CNY600 billion (USD84.5 billion) last year, according to the city’s data bureau. Hashtag: #GlobalDataEcosystemConference
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2024 – Award-winning actor and producer Ram Charan is set to join the prestigious line-up of superstars at Madame Tussauds Singapore with a wax figure set to arrive in summer of 2025.
Photo by Madame Tussauds Singapore
Best known for his roles in films including critically acclaimed “RRR” (2022)and the upcoming anticipated movie Game Changer, Ram Charan was presented the “Madame Tussauds of the Future Award” at the star-studded 2024 International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards at Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi. This award marked not just the success in South Indian film, but also his broad appeal to his fans globally.
“It’s great to be a part of Madame Tussauds alongside others who have contributed so much to cinema. As a kid, when I visited Madame Tussauds to see the legends and take pictures with them, I never imagined I would one day be part of it so early in my career. I thank Madame Tussauds for acknowledging my work and motivating me to do better,” said Ram Charan.
It was also revealed at the awards show, through a behind-the-scenes video, that his pet, Rhyme, will be included as part of his upcoming figure, making him the only celebrity, apart from Queen Elizabeth II, to have a pet featured. “I’m really touched that the Madame Tussauds team included my darling pet Rhyme with my figure. This means a lot to me, as it shows the perfect synergy between my work and my life—Rhyme is a big part of it. This one is special.”
IIFA and Madame Tussauds Singapore have been collaborating since 2017 when the IIFA Awards Experience was launched exclusively at the Singapore attraction. This collaboration serves to bring together a celebration of Indian cinema on a global stage, while allowing fans to engage with their favorite stars in a unique way. Since then, many icons of Indian cinema have launched there, with Ram Charan being next in line in Madame Tussauds Singapore.
Andre Timmins, co-founder IIFA said, “the partnership between IIFA and Madame Tussauds has been a fantastic journey in showcasing the brilliance of Indian cinema to global audiences. Each year, we celebrate icons who have not only made an impact in India but have captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Ram Charan’s addition to this prestigious line-up further strengthens our shared vision of bringing Indian cinema’s finest closer to their fans. As we mark 25 years since the unveiling of Amitabh Bachchan’s figure at the 2000 IIFA in London, this partnership continues to grow, reflecting the global reach and influence of Indian cinema. We’re excited to honor more stars and bring more memorable experiences together as we move forward.”
“It is a great privilege to continue our longstanding partnership with IIFA to honour legends of the Indian film industry. We are thrilled to be welcoming Ram Charan’s figure to join the rest of the stars such as Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Karan Johar and Amitabh Bachchan at our very own IIFA Zone in Madame Tussauds Singapore”, said Alex Ward, Regional Director, Gateway Asia, Merlin Entertainments
Madame Tussauds Singapore celebrates her 10th year anniversary this year with an exciting line up of celebrity figure launches, activities, and promotions throughout year. Sign up to our e-newsletter and get be one of the first to get updates! Visit www.madametussauds.com/singapore for more information. Hashtag: #MadameTussaudsSingapore
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Madame Tussauds
Madame Tussauds has been inviting people to walk the red carpet and get closer to the revered – and feared – for over 250 years. With over 23 attractions in the world’s top destination cities, we are dedicated to giving millions of visitors the opportunity to mingle with the mighty from A-listers to music legends, heroes of sport, to infamous world leaders. Today, we continue to partner with the global icons of a generation to create astonishing lifelike figures from sittings and offer exciting and interactive experiences to ensure guests have never felt closer to fame.
Merlin Entertainments
Merlin Entertainments is a global leader in location-based, family entertainment. As Europe’s Number 1 and the world’s second-largest visitor attraction operator, Merlin operates 137 attractions, 22 hotels and 6 holiday villages in 24 countries and across 4 continents. Merlin’s purpose is to deliver memorable experiences to its millions of guests around the world, through its iconic brands and multiple attraction formats, and the commitment and passion of its employees. See www.merlinentertainments.biz for more information.
Having partnered with 100+ global brands, its second Impact Report highlights how the power of collaboration fosters impactful techstyle and agrifood innovations
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2024 –The Mills Fabrica launches its latest Impact Report to celebrate five years of fostering, accelerating and supporting techstyle and agrifood innovators to catalyze planet-positive change. In line with its inaugural report, this year’s report showcases how companies can leverage the nine planetary boundaries framework as outlined by the Stockholm Resilience Center and the IRIS+ framework, to measure the impact generated by The Mills Fabrica’s portfolio companies.
Over the past five years, The Mills Fabrica has proudly incubated, propelled, and supported innovators actively making a tangible difference for the planet. Employing a unique approach that covers the various phases of the innovation development process, The Mills Fabrica’s scope of work encompasses a venture capital fund, startup incubator, Impact Retail Store Fabrica X, and an innovation gallery, labs, events and co-working spaces in Hong Kong and London. This enables it to tailor its various business streams to cater to each phase, maximizing the chances of realizing impactful innovations.
“We are proud to mark five years of driving positive change for the planet and people with our vast network of stakeholders. As we look to the next five years, we are calling on like-minded partners to join us in our mission to build a future where innovation, sustainability, and conscious consumption intersect. Whether you are an innovator or a corporation new to sustainability, The Mills Fabrica’s global platform with extensive on-the-ground knowledge is ready to support your sustainability efforts in Asia and beyond,” says Cintia Nunes, General Manager and Head of Asia at The Mills Fabrica.
Since inception in 2018, The Mills Fabrica has strategically invested in over 20 pioneering startups and eight funds operating in the techstyle and agrifood industries. Covering upstream, midstream, and down-stream supply chains for both industries, this comprehensive approach enables The Mills Fabrica to support a diverse range of innovations, allowing them to scale their solutions and generate environmental and social impact. Most recently, it strengthened its commitment to generating positive impact by targeting upstream innovations and integrating a tailored impact management process throughout its investment lifecycle.
These investments have already shown considerable promise in generating impactful change for the planet. For example, Mango Materials, a portfolio company that transforms methane into biodegradable materials, has displaced 1.4 tonnes of plastics with its PHA-based pellets, avoiding the release of 836 kg of greenhouse gas equivalent.
Incubation Program: Nurtured 15+ startups into their next phase of growth
To accelerate sustainable innovation in Hong Kong and the U.K., The Mills Fabrica has provided tailored support to over 15 innovators, encompassing access to co-working spaces, network opportunities, curated expert workshops, and showcasing opportunities through its Impact Retail concept Fabrica X. Taking its incubatee IXON as an example, their advanced sous-vide aseptic packaging (ASAP) technology and product generated considerable interest with the help of The Mills Fabrica’s network. By hosting tasting events for chefs, investors, and media, IXON successfully commercialized its ASAP technology. The Mills Fabrica also facilitated introductions to investors and corporate partners, expanding IXON’s network and contributing to its growing recognition.
Empowering young innovators and inspiring consumer curiosity
With a strong belief that innovation often starts within educational institutions, The Mills Fabrica has established two student competitions: the Central Saint Martins x The Mills Fabrica Innovation Award and its flagship Techstyle For Social Good to unlock the entrepreneurial spirit of students and recent graduates.
Over the years, The Mills Fabrica has partnered with more than 170 educational institutions worldwide to identify promising young innovators who have developed or are close to developing an early prototype of a technological innovation. The two competitions have received over 600 applications globally, with total prizes amounting to HKD 1.9 million. Apart from the prize fund, winners receive an extensive array of support, ranging from brand collaborations to showcasing opportunities at Fabrica X, aimed at transforming their innovative ideas into game-changing solutions.
In particular, to connect up-and-coming sustainable brands to consumers, Fabrica X, an Impact Retail concept in Hong Kong and London, serves as a touchpoint to educate consumers on key sustainability issues and showcase and sell sustainable products. Its Plastic Circularity campaign in Hong Kong brought together 47 like-minded innovators and brands, attracting over 45,000 visitors, with 88% of participants reporting that they are more willing to buy items made from recycled materials after attending the workshops.
Unlocking opportunities by curating a collaborative ecosystem across all sectors
Marking five years since inception, The Mills Fabrica remains firm in its belief that industry collaboration is key to support innovation for sustainable development. Through partnership initiatives and curated Fabrica Happenings, The Mills Fabrica has created opportunities for innovators to connect with manufacturers, retailers, and investors from all sectors. Having hosted over 360 events that engaged more than 45,000 individuals, these events continue to be invaluable in furthering its mission of driving planet-positive change.
“The Mills Fabrica has unique expertise and connections to crucial stakeholders from all over the world to collectively safeguard our planet. We look forward to bringing more innovations to life as a result of these mutually-beneficial collaborations with our ecosystem partners,” Nunes adds.
The Mills Fabrica’s 2023 Impact Report can be downloaded here: https://bit.ly/ir23-press Hashtag: #TheMillsFabrica
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About The Mills Fabrica
The Mills Fabrica is a go-to solutions platform accelerating techstyle and agrifood tech innovations for sustainability. Officially launched in Hong Kong in December 2018, The Mills is a landmark revitalization project by the Nan Fung Group, transforming their old textile factories into a new heritage, experiential retail, and innovation centre. With its business incubator, investment fund, spaces in Hong Kong and London, and community-building initiatives, The Mills Fabrica aims to create success stories of collaborations between innovators, entrepreneurs, and corporates, that together, will drive positive change for future generations. http://www.themillsfabrica.com/
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2024 – Populis Digital (Populis, or the “Company”), a leading Hong Kong-based digital marketing agency, is celebrating its 5th anniversary today with a team-building trip to Cebu, Philippines. The Company is also marking this milestone by unveiling an enhanced version of its self-developed employee care program, PopulUS.
Populis first launched its internal employee care program in May 2023 to support its staff’s overall well-being and personal growth. The updated PopulUS released today now includes optimized features to address staff turnover, boost motivation, build personal connections, and foster self-belief and manifestation. This holistic approach to employee care is a cornerstone of Populis’ corporate social responsibility (CSR) commitment. The Company believes that empowering its team to thrive professionally and personally can cultivate a more engaged, productive, and fulfilled workforce.
Every month, Populis employees participate in one-on-one sessions to review aspects of their personal lives they wish to optimize for greater happiness, such as traveling more, redecorating their living spaces, or spending quality time with family. During these sessions, they create vision boards and explore mental models via PopulUS to develop critical thinking skills and make decisions based on facts and truths.
“At Populis, we believe that supporting our employees’ mental health and personal growth is essential for cultivating a thriving work environment,” saidMr. Cordon, Founder and CEO of Populis. “Our personal growth program empowers our team to intentionally craft the lives they desire, both inside and outside the office. By investing in our people, we are building a stronger, more resilient organization that can better serve our clients and the community.”
To celebrate its 5th anniversary, Populis has also organized a team-building trip to Cebu, where the Company’s employees will engage in various activities and rewards designed to strengthen camaraderie and collaboration. This trip underscores Populis’ dedication to fostering a robust, cohesive company culture that drives innovation and success.
“Populis has always been committed to the well-being and growth of our team,” added Mr. Cordon. “As we embark on our next chapter, we remain dedicated to providing our employees with the resources and support they need to reach their full potential and achieve their aspirations.”
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Populis Digital
Populis Digital is a leading digital marketing agency based in Hong Kong, specializing in creative, data-driven solutions that help businesses thrive in the digital landscape. Founded in 2019, the company has grown to become a trusted partner for clients across a wide range of industries. Populis’ commitment to innovation, sustainability, and employee wellbeing has been instrumental in its success and rapid expansion.
TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2024 – Arla Foods Ingredients is demonstrating how acid whey can be transformed into a valuable raw material for high-protein dairy products with an ‘upcycled’ positioning.
Arla Foods Ingredients
The new ‘Upcycle Your Whey to Value’ concept offers a solution to a long-standing sustainability challenge for the dairy industry. Two thirds of the milk used in the production of Greek yoghurt and other strained fermented dairy products ends up as waste.
Disposing of acid whey, the main side-stream from the process, is both expensive and associated with environmental risk. However it is nutrient-rich and, with the right expertise, can be transformed into a nutritious ingredient, opening up new opportunities for innovative food and beverage products.
Now Arla Foods Ingredients has created three new ambient dairy concepts that demonstrate the potential of acid whey to be used in products with an ‘upcycled’ positioning:
An 8% protein drinking yoghurt with pineapple / coconut flavours
An 8% protein creamy dessert with pineapple / coconut flavours
An 8% protein beverage with strawberry flavour.
In each of the recipes, acid whey, which accounts for between 50% and 73% of the full product, is combined with ingredients from the Nutrilac® ProteinBoost range of patented microparticulated whey proteins.
As well as offering a mild dairy taste and smooth and creamy mouthfeel, the recipes are all suitable for processing on a standard dairy line, and offer good viscosity control and stability through shelf life.
The new concept is designed to help manufacturers meet a growing market need, with climate change and waste increasingly top of mind for dairy consumers. Over eight in ten are aware of sustainability issues in the category, and 20% are actively changing their behaviour when buying dairy products.[1]
Arla Foods Ingredients will showcase the ‘Upcycle Your Whey to Value’ concept at Gulfood Manufacturing in Dubai (November 5th to 7th). Exhibiting at Stand R-K3 in Shk Rashid Hall, it will also demonstrate how Nutrilac® ProteinBoost can be used to overcome technical challenges in high-protein dairy production, and highlight solutions for high-protein cheese.
[1]New Nutrition Business, 10 Key Trends, 2023
Hashtag: #ArlaFoodsIngredients
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
The MICHELIN Key award honours hotels that offer outstanding lodging experiences, surpassing guest expectations with personalised service and distinctive character.
This esteemed recognition highlights the hotel’s dedication to delivering sublime luxury hospitality and unforgettable guest experiences. Oriental Residence Bangkok is one of 31 hotels to receive 1 MICHELIN Key in the MICHELIN Guide’s first-ever hotel selection in the country.
Yuthachai Charanachitta, Chief Executive Officer of ONYX Hospitality Group, stated, “The MICHELIN recognition showcases ONYX Hospitality Group’s steadfast dedication to excellence, offering bespoke and highly personalised services that embody the ethos of “A Tailored Approach to Hospitality.” In addition, it is a testament to the passion and dedication of our staff. We remain committed to elevating the guest experience at Oriental Residence Bangkok, ensuring every stay is truly memorable.”
Renowned for its refined elegance and outstanding service, Oriental Residence Bangkok stands as a beacon of luxury in the heart of Bangkok, nestled on the prestigious Wireless Road. A hidden gem in the city, it offers opulent accommodation and world-class amenities, perfectly blending timeless sophistication with modern comforts. With its prime location amidst the diplomatic and historic quarter of Bangkok and surrounded by lush gardens, the property provides a peaceful retreat from the city’s hustle, creating a sanctuary of tranquillity and exclusivity. The beautifully designed suites capture the essence of Oriental charm and Thai warmth.
The renowned architect Barbara Barry, whose signature style is synonymous with elegant and timeless interiors, has brought her vision to life at the Oriental Residence Bangkok.
Ms. Barry is internationally known for her streamlined interiors and elegant home furnishings. Her look speaks to quiet luxury, comfort, and ease—supporting her design philosophy that living simply, and with quality, is the highest form of luxury. At her Los Angeles-based studio her talented staff help bring her vision of gracious living to life centering on bespoke interiors both residential and commercial.
In the world of interior designer, the name Barbara Barry is synonymous with the designer’s own aesthetic: elegant, feminine, yet with a distinct modernity.
Ms. Barry often employs a neutral color palette, featuring soft, muted tones like creams, beiges, and soft grays. These colours create a serene and calming atmosphere throughout the hotel.
Oriental Residence Bangkok offers distinctive dining experiences inspired by timeless sophistication paired with contemporary style, with meticulously crafted food and drink, sourced only from the finest ingredients. Dining at Café Claire evokes a sense of classic sophistication, with its contemporary take on wholesome dishes exuding an air of relaxed luxury. The elegant Oriental Bar offers an exquisite selection of handcrafted bespoke cocktails and tantalizing canapés in a stylish, refined setting. For those seeking serenity, the Play Deck features an open-air swimming pool with breathtaking views of the Bangkok skyline, further enhancing the sense of escape and indulgence.
The recognition reinforces ONYX Hospitality Group’s mission to consistently deliver distinctive, guest-focused luxury that sets it apart in the hospitality industry.
For reservations, guests can book through MICHELIN Guide’s digital platform or directly with Oriental Residence Bangkok.
To commemorate the MICHELIN accolade, Oriental Residence Bangkok is delighted to offer the exclusive “MICHELIN Key Celebration Package.” Escape to a world of timeless sophistication and serenity with privileged rates at Oriental Residence Bangkok. To complement the experience, savour a signature Afternoon Tea and a delectable 4-course dinner, included within the package.
Guests travelling by December 2024 (prior to peak season) can receive an exclusive 35% discount on best available rates. Minimum 2-night stay required, terms and conditions apply. Visit the website to book.