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Policy Address by Hong Kong SAR’s Chief Executive John Lee: New Initiatives to Propel Economic Growth


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 October 2024 – John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region unveiled a range of measures in his 2024 Policy Address (October 16) to inject greater vitality into the economy, focusing on both established and emerging industries.

In terms of existing businesses, Mr Lee said the Government would explore new growth areas, specifically by creating a commodity trading ecosystem to attract relevant enterprises to Hong Kong, turning Hong Kong into an operation centre for international commodity trading, storage and delivery, shipping and logistics, risk management, and more.

Hong Kong SAR's Chief Executive John Lee attended a joint radio phone-in programme to answer questions about the 2024 Policy Address.
Hong Kong SAR’s Chief Executive John Lee attended a joint radio phone-in programme to answer questions about the 2024 Policy Address.

“This will help develop the markets in international gold, non‑ferrous metal, green transportation, and others, further promoting the integrated development of Hong Kong as an international financial, shipping and trade centre,” Mr Lee said.

Part of this strategy is to promote the development of world‑class gold storage facilities, facilitating the storage and delivery of spot gold by users and investors in Hong Kong, and driving demand for related services such as collateral and loan businesses, opening up new growth areas of the financial sector.

Also, to further support Hong Kong’s role as a global financial centre, the Government will continue to enhance the mutual market access regime and reinforce the city’s status as the world’s largest offshore Renminbi (RMB) business hub, contributing to the internationalisation of RMB. The Government will also look to enhance the Cross‑boundary Wealth Management Connect Scheme.

Tourism is another growth sector with the Chief Executive proposing to develop Hong Kong into a premier tourism destination through innovative thinking and making better use of rich and unique resources such as the Victoria Harbour, outlying islands, rural areas, cultures, cuisines, lifestyles and historic buildings.

“These elements, combined with our edges in technology, animation and comics, the performing arts, film and television culture, and more, will help to instill the concept of ‘tourism is everywhere in Hong Kong’,” Mr Lee said.

He added that the Government would publish the Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0 later this year. It would focus on promoting culture, sports, ecology and mega events in areas such as eco-tourism, yacht tourism and mega event tourism as well as developing visitor source markets in the Middle East and ASEAN Member States.

A Working Group on Developing Tourist Hotspots would also be set up to identify and develop popular tourist hotspots in various districts.

Hong Kong will make better use of its rich and unique resources such as the Victoria Harbour and cultural facilities to promote tourism.
Hong Kong will make better use of its rich and unique resources such as the Victoria Harbour and cultural facilities to promote tourism.

Mr Lee also announced that the Government would reduce the import duty on liquor, fostering trading of liquor and boosting development of related high value-added industries including logistics and storage, tourism as well as high-end food and beverage consumption.

Other growth markets targeted in the Policy Address include the silver economy, in light of growing demand for products and services catering to the elderly.

To this end, a Working Group on Promoting Silver Economy will be set up to implement measures in five areas covering “silver consumption”, “silver industry”, “quality assurance of silver products”, “silver financial and security arrangements” and “silver productivity”.

“Through our united efforts to reform and innovate, our economy will go even stronger and our people will lead a better life, making Hong Kong a shining city,” Mr Lee said.

More information about the Policy Address is available from www.policyaddress.gov.hk.
Hashtag: #hongkong #brandhongkong #policyaddress





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

Dusit Hotels & Resorts Returns to India with the Soft Opening of dusitD2 Fagu – A Serene Himalayan Retreat – this December


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 October 2024 – Dusit Hotels and Resorts, under Dusit International—one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies—announces its return to India with the anticipated soft opening of dusitD2 Fagu. This luxurious retreat, set amidst the serene mountains of Fagu, near Shimla, is scheduled to open its doors in December 2024, offering an exceptional blend of Thai hospitality and local charm.

dusitD2 Fagu: A luxurious retreat hidden within the serene mountains of Fagu, is set to open its doors in December 2024, boasting an exceptional blend of Thai hospitality and local charm.
dusitD2 Fagu: A luxurious retreat hidden within the serene mountains of Fagu, is set to open its doors in December 2024, boasting an exceptional blend of Thai hospitality and local charm.

Surrounded by the majestic Himalayan landscape, dusitD2 Fagu promises a tranquil escape for leisure, wellness, and adventure seekers alike. The property features 80 elegantly appointed guest rooms, ranging from 38 sqm to 86 sqm, each designed to harmonize contemporary comforts with local cultural touches, and to showcase stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Located just 80 minutes from Shimla Airport and four-and-a-half hours from Chandigarh Airport, which offers daily flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore, dusitD2 Fagu is also easily accessible from Kalka Railway Station, 18 kilometers away, which provides access to the scenic Kalka-Shimla Toy Train. For road travelers, Fagu is well-connected, just 7 km from Kufri, 20 km from Shimla, and 133 km from Chandigarh.

Guests at dusitD2 Fagu will be able to explore nearby attractions such as Kufri, Mashobra, Narkanda, Mahasu Peak, and the UNESCO-listed Shimla-Kalka Toy Train. These destinations offer a variety of experiences, including adventure sports, cultural landmarks, nature walks, and amusement parks.

The hotel will feature the renowned Namm’s Thai authentic Spa, which offers treatments aimed at enhancing physical and mental well-being. Additionally, guests can relax in the city’s largest temperature-controlled swimming pool, with breathtaking views of the valley.

For meetings, weddings, and special events, dusitD2 Fagu will offer versatile function spaces, including the largest banquet and terrace lawn in the area. The hotel’s Amphitheatre, the only open-air theatre in the city, will provide a unique venue for starlit performances, adding a touch of magic to any occasion. To complement its eco-friendly ethos, the property will also feature an EV charging station for guests’ convenience.

Dining at dusitD2 Fagu will be a culinary journey, with Dusit Gourmet offering a diverse selection of international dishes for all-day dining. SOI will serve rich Thai and Pan-Asian cuisine, while Fagu – The Destination Bar will offer guests the perfect spot to unwind with drinks and snacks, all while enjoying the panoramic views.

“We are delighted to bring Dusit International’s signature Thai hospitality back to India with the upcoming launch of dusitD2 Fagu,” said Mr Gilles Cretallaz, COO of Dusit International. “This opening is a major milestone in our expansion, and we are excited to offer guests a one-of-a-kind experience in one of India’s most stunning locations.”

Mr Aashish Gawari, General Manager of dusitD2 Fagu, added, “We look forward to welcoming guests to this serene retreat, where they can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Himalayas, enjoy exceptional dining, and rejuvenate with our wellness offerings. Our team is committed to creating unforgettable experiences that reflect Dusit’s blend of Thai warmth and local charm.”

Currently, Dusit International manages a collection of luxury villas in Goa through its subsidiary Elite Havens. With the soft opening of the 80-key dusitD2 Fagu, the company marks the debut of its Dusit-branded hotels in India. Furthermore, four additional properties are planned for Karnataka, set to open in mid-2026.

For more information and reservations, please visit dusit.com/dusitd2-fagu.
Hashtag: #DusitInternational #dusitD2Fagu

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

About Dusit International

Established in 1948, Dusit International or Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (DUSIT) is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: hotels and resorts, hospitality education, food, property development, and hospitality-related services.

The group’s portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes more than 300 properties operating under a total of eight brands (Devarana – Dusit Retreats, Dusit Thani, Dusit Suites, Dusit Collection, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 18 countries worldwide. The group also operates culinary schools and hospitality colleges in Thailand, plus catering companies for the education sector in Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam.

Dusit International’s diversified investments in real estate development, hospitality-related services, and the food sector are part of its long-term strategy for sustainable growth, which focuses on three key areas: balance, expansion, and diversification.

For more information, please visit .

Boat Racing Festival in Vientiane Draws Crowds, Celebrates Culture

The entrance of the Boat Racing Festival (Photo supplied)

Every October, the excitement of the Lao people comes alive during the Boat Racing Festival, known locally as Boun Suang Huea. Celebrated nationwide, the festival in Vientiane draws locals and visitors to the Mekong riverside, where they gather to cheer for their favorite boat teams.

BRICS Expansion: What it Means for Malaysia’s Economic Future, According to Global Broker Octa


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 October 2024 – BRICS represents a formidable economic bloc that significantly influences global trade and geopolitics. In January, the alliance of Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa formally welcomed Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates into its fold. Recent discussions have focused on expanding BRICS to include nations like Malaysia and Indonesia, presenting these countries with new economic opportunities and potential benefits. Octa, a broker with globally recognised licences, examines how BRICS expansion could transform the economic landscape for these Southeast Asian powerhouses, potentially enhancing their trade partnerships, technological collaborations, and economic resilience.

Octa

Malaysia’s BRICS Prospects: Economic Implications
Malaysia, strategically positioned as a key player in Southeast Asia, has shown interest in the BRICS expansion. The country’s GDP growth, which stood at 5.9% in Q2 2024, reflects its economic strength and potential for further development. By joining BRICS, Malaysia could significantly enhance its trade volume, particularly in high-growth sectors like technology and renewable energy. The BRICS bloc, which already commands nearly 30% of global GDP, offers an expanded market access that could further boost Malaysia’s export industries, particularly electronics and semiconductors.

Malaysia’s role as a semiconductor hub could become even more influential through BRICS membership. As the global semiconductor market is expected to reach $803 billion by 2030, Malaysia’s collaboration with BRICS countries could help secure its place in the global supply chain. Additionally, partnerships with BRICS members like China and India could lead to joint ventures in technological development, further integrating Malaysia into the global tech landscape.

Indonesia’s Potential BRICS Membership and Economic Growth
Indonesia, Southeast Asia’s largest economy, has shown a proactive approach towards BRICS membership. With a GDP growth rate of 5.05% in Q2 2024 and a stable inflation rate of 1.8% in September 2024, the country is positioning itself as a crucial player in the region. By joining BRICS, Indonesia could access expanded trade networks, attracting investments in key industries like manufacturing, energy, and agriculture.

BRICS membership could be especially beneficial for Indonesia’s manufacturing sector, which accounted for 20% of the country’s GDP in 2023. China’s investments in Indonesia’s infrastructure projects, amounting to over $40 billion in the last five years, highlight the potential for increased cooperation. If Indonesia joins BRICS, these collaborations could intensify, leading to further economic growth and development.

Kar Yong Ang, a financial market analyst at Octa Broker, explains, ‘For Indonesia, BRICS offers both an opportunity for economic growth and a strategic platform for expanding its influence in global trade. With stronger ties to BRICS countries, Indonesia can accelerate its development goals, particularly in infrastructure and energy sectors, thereby enhancing its economic position.’

Regional Cooperation and Growth Opportunities
Malaysia and Indonesia’s potential involvement in BRICS could significantly impact regional cooperation within Southeast Asia. Their membership could encourage the alignment of trade agreements and economic policies within ASEAN and BRICS, fostering a collaborative approach to economic development. By integrating BRICS initiatives with ASEAN’s regional goals, Malaysia and Indonesia could enhance trade ties and investment flows, particularly in technology, manufacturing, and green energy sectors.

For instance, Indonesia’s growing renewable energy sector, which aims to generate 23% of the nation’s electricity from renewables by 2025, could benefit from BRICS partnerships. Given its advancements in digital technology and green energy, Malaysia could also attract investment from BRICS nations interested in Southeast Asia’s tech and energy markets.

A New Economic Chapter for Southeast Asia
Malaysia and Indonesia’s potential BRICS membership represents a significant shift in Southeast Asia’s economic trajectory. For these nations, joining BRICS means expanding trade networks, securing technological partnerships, and accessing new investment opportunities. This evolution not only promises growth for Malaysia and Indonesia but also enhances the region’s role in global trade.

As BRICS expansion unfolds, staying informed on these developments is crucial for traders and investors seeking opportunities in these markets. With Octa Broker’s expertise in tracking global economic trends, traders can navigate these changes effectively, making informed decisions to capitalise on emerging opportunities in Southeast Asia’s evolving economic landscape.
Hashtag: #Octa

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

Octa

is an international broker that has been providing online trading services worldwide since 2011. It offers commission-free access to financial markets and various services used by clients from 180 countries who have opened more than 52 million trading accounts. To help its clients reach their investment goals, Octa offers free educational webinars, articles, and analytical tools.

The company is involved in a comprehensive network of charitable and humanitarian initiatives, including the improvement of educational infrastructure and short-notice relief projects supporting local communities.

In the APAC region, Octa received the ‘Best Trading Platform Malaysia 2024’ and the ‘Most Reliable Broker Asia 2023’ awards from Brands and Business Magazine and International Global Forex Awards, respectively.

Cleaner Air in your Home: AkzoNobel launches the new Dulux Ambiance™ All AirClean


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 October 2024 – Akzo Nobel Paints (Singapore) Pte Ltd proudly introduces the new flagship Dulux Ambiance All AirClean, an innovative paint formulated with PureAir™ Technology to deliver cleaner indoor air. This breakthrough product represents AkzoNobel’s commitment to delivering solutions that can bring health and well-being advantages to its customers.

Dulux Ambiance All AirClean
Dulux Ambiance All AirClean

Poor indoor air quality can arise from various sources, with common culprits including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), mould, dust, and chemical emissions from building materials and furniture. Pollutants like formaldehyde – a volatile organic compound commonly found in household items and is a known carcinogen, and chronic exposure, even at low levels, can lead to respiratory issues, eye and skin irritation, and other serious health problems.[1] As awareness of these dangers continues to rise, so does the demand for effective solutions that can help safeguard indoor environments.

Dulux Ambiance All AirClean is designed to absorb harmful air pollutants such as formaldehyde, by converting it into harmless water molecules, offering a proactive solution to improve indoor air quality.

In a certified test under the Chinese Standard JC/T 1074-2021, Dulux Ambiance All AirClean was shown to remove more than 80% of formaldehyde from the air.[2]

With a growing demand for healthier indoor environments, Dulux Ambiance All AirClean responds to the need for both safety and aesthetics in modern homes. This innovative paint ensures that homeowners can enjoy a beautiful living space while benefiting from cleaner air, making it an essential choice for health-conscious homeowners.

“Our customers expect more from paint than just colour,” said Gordon Lee, Head of Commercial for Akzo Nobel Paints (Singapore). “Dulux Ambiance All AirClean not only beautifies interiors but also actively contributes to healthier indoor environments. This innovation is a testament to our ongoing investment in R&D to bring cutting-edge, sustainable solutions to market.”

With reports surfacing of Singaporeans falling ill due to high formaldehyde levels in their homes[3], there is now greater urgency to pursue effective solutions and stringent guidelines on limits of formaldehyde concentrations. Furthermore, improved indoor air quality also has long-term economic advantages, reducing healthcare costs linked to respiratory conditions and enhancing the overall well-being of occupants.

“We believe that everyone should feel safe in their homes. And with the introduction of Dulux Ambiance All AirClean, homeowners now have the choice to actively improve their indoor air quality. The product also boasts anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-mould, and anti-fungal benefits, contributing to an overall healthier indoor environment,” adds Gordon.

Dulux Ambiance All AirClean is available in a selection of more than 2,000 colour palettes for interior spaces. For more information, please visit https://bit.ly/AirCleanSG or your nearest Dulux dealer outlets.

[2] The test was conducted by a 3rd party laboratory, where formaldehyde was dosed into closed chambers and formaldehyde concentration was measured at the end of 24 hours.
[3] https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/formaldehyde-wooden-furniture-homeowners-seeking-help-sick-4475181
Hashtag: #AkzoNobel #InteriorPaint #InteriorDesign

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

AkzoNobel

Since 1792, we’ve been supplying the innovative paints and coatings that help to color people’s lives and protect what matters most. Our world class portfolio of brands – including Dulux, International, Sikkens and Interpon – is trusted by customers around the globe. We’re active in more than 150 countries and use our expertise to sustain and enhance everyday life. Because we believe every surface is an opportunity. It’s what you’d expect from a pioneering and long-established paints company that’s dedicated to providing sustainable solutions and preserving the best of what we have today – while creating an even better tomorrow. Let’s paint the future together.

Cisco and CSA Collaborate to Bolster Cyber Defense for Singapore

  • Cisco signed a Memorandum of Collaboration with the Cyber Security Agency (CSA) of Singapore to enhance the nation’s cyber and digital resilience.
  • Key areas of the collaboration include threat intelligence sharing, capacity building, and talent development to meet Singapore’s security and economic needs.
  • Both parties will collaborate to enhance the nation’s cyber defense capabilities under Cisco’s Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) program in Singapore.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 October 2024 – Cisco, the worldwide leader in networking and security, and the Cyber Security Agency (CSA) of Singapore today announced the signing of a Memorandum of Collaboration which aims to bolster the nation’s national security and digital resilience. Ms. Tay Bee Kheng, President of Cisco ASEAN, and Mr. Dan Yock Hau, Assistant Chief Executive (National Cyber Resilience) of CSA, signed the memorandum at a ceremony on the sidelines of Singapore International Cyber Week 2024.

Cisco and the Cybersecurity Agency of Singapore (CSA) sign a Memorandum of Collaboration (MOC) to enhance the nation's cyber and digital resilience. (L to R: President of Cisco ASEAN, Tay Bee Kheng and Assistant Chief Executive (National Cyber Resilience) of CSA, Dan Yock Hau)
Cisco and the Cybersecurity Agency of Singapore (CSA) sign a Memorandum of Collaboration (MOC) to enhance the nation’s cyber and digital resilience. (L to R: President of Cisco ASEAN, Tay Bee Kheng and Assistant Chief Executive (National Cyber Resilience) of CSA, Dan Yock Hau)

In an increasingly complex and interconnected world, there is a greater need for organizations to enhance their digital resilience to protect themselves from sophisticated cyber threats. In an expanded collaboration with CSA, Cisco brings the full power of the network together with market-leading security and observability. Leveraging Splunk’s security offerings and Cisco Talos’s unmatched visibility of the threat landscape, Cisco aims to offer its expertise and capabilities to contribute to the nation’s cyber and digital resilience.

Building Singapore’s Cyber and Digital Resilience

Sharing Threat Intelligence and Insights: Following the acquisition of Splunk earlier this year, Cisco now has the market-leading capabilities to provide complete visibility and insights across an organization’s entire digital footprint. It will also facilitate the cross-exchange of ideas, insights, and industry best practices with CSA and the wider cybersecurity community. Cisco Talos, among the world’s preeminent threat intelligence detection and response groups, will contribute to this effort. With its unmatched visibility across the threat landscape, seeing more than 800 billion security events per day, Cisco Talos leverages more than 60 government and law enforcement partnerships and extensive product telemetry across identity, firewalls, endpoints, and more to drive digital resilience.

Shoring Up the Country’s Defense Capabilities: As part of Cisco’s Country Digital Acceleration (CDA) program, Cisco will provide advisory support and join forces with CSA in using the latest technologies and capabilities to drive digital resilience for the country. This includes exploring new translation of cyber defense concept of operations into functional requirements and technical design and technologies for national cybersecurity initiatives.

Enhancing International Cyber Cooperation in ASEAN: On a broader scale beyond Singapore, Cisco and CSA will work together to foster an open and secure cyberspace ecosystem for Singapore and the ASEAN region. They will explore raising the baseline level of ASEAN cybersecurity through an ASEAN Cybersecurity Assessment Model (ACAM) program. Both parties will also explore the feasibility of collaborating with the ASEAN-Singapore Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence to support training and assessment initiatives in neighboring ASEAN countries.

Growing a Robust Cyber Talent Pipeline: To bridge the cybersecurity skills gap, CSA and Cisco will collaborate to develop and sustain a strong cybersecurity workforce by upskilling professionals, supporting mid-career transitions, and grooming future talents. These will be done through various initiatives, from offering tech education under Cisco Networking Academy, one of the world’s longest-running skills-to-jobs programs, in partnership with Institutes of Higher Learning to activities like security operation center training, workshops and Capture-the-Flag competitions.

Ms. Tay Bee Kheng, President of Cisco ASEAN said, “As cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated, security needs to move at machine scale. Data has become the ultimate differentiator as it enables businesses to correlate telemetry data with business context to help detect and stop issues wherever they occur. We are delighted to bring the power of Cisco Security with Talos, and now Splunk, to this collaboration with CSA to help Singapore remain digitally resilient.”

Mr. Dan Yock Hau, Assistant Chief Executive (National Cyber Resilience), CSA, said, “Cybersecurity is a team effort, and we look forward to expanding our collaboration with Cisco to enhance Singapore’s cyber resilience and its standing as a leading digital hub in the region. Through this partnership, CSA intends to explore new platforms to facilitate the cross-sharing of threat intelligence information as well as spearhead initiatives to boost the talent pipeline for Singapore’s cybersecurity workforce.”

Hashtag: #Cisco #CSA #technology #partnership #SICW2024



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

Cisco

Cisco (NASDAQ: CSCO) is the worldwide technology leader that securely connects everything to make anything possible. Our purpose is to power an inclusive future for all by helping our customers reimagine their applications, power hybrid work, secure their enterprise, transform their infrastructure, and meet their sustainability goals. Discover more on and follow us on X at .

Cisco and the Cisco logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Cisco and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and other countries. A listing of Cisco’s trademarks can be found at . Third-party trademarks mentioned are the property of their respective owners. The use of the word partner does not imply a partnership relationship between Cisco and any other company.

Hong Kong Eases Visa Rules for Lao, Cambodian, and Myanmar Citizens

Hong Kong Eases Visa Policies to Attract Talents from Laos, Vietnam, Nepal
FILE: tourists gather in line at an airport in Hong Kong (photo: Xinhua)

Hong Kong has announced relaxed visa rules for nationals of Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar, making it easier for them to apply for multiple-entry visas for travel or business. Chief Executive John Lee unveiled this change during his policy address to the Legislative Council on 16 October.

Vietnam Airlines Joins SkyTeam’s Aviation Challenge by Accelerating CO2 Offsetting and Reducing Plastic Waste


HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 October 2024 – Vietnam Airlines has successfully launched an unprecedented series of initiatives to offset CO2 emissions and reduce plastic waste. These efforts represent a significant step in the airline’s commitment to sustainable development and align with The Aviation Challenge 2024 organized by the global airline alliance SkyTeam.

Students in Con Dao participated in waste collection and learned how to recycle plastic waste into eco-friendly products.
Students in Con Dao participated in waste collection and learned how to recycle plastic waste into eco-friendly products.

As part of these efforts, Vietnam Airlines has rolled out two key environmental protection campaigns: “Contributing Leaves to the Forests – For a Green and Sustainable Vietnam” and “Flying Light to Con Dao.”

The “Contributing Leaves to the Forests” campaign is a collaborative initiative among Vietnam Airlines, e-wallet application MoMo and the non-profit environmental organization Pan Nature. The campaign aims to restore 50 hectares of forest along the limestone corridor between Mai Chau District (Hoa Binh Province) and Van Ho District (Son La Province) in Northwest Vietnam. It not only focuses on reforesting the area and cutting CO2 emissions to combat climate change but also seeks to raise awareness on forest protection within local communities and conserve the region’s unique biodiversity, particularly the critically endangered white-cheeked gibbon, of which only 14 individuals remain in the region.

Launched in early June 2024, the campaign has successfully attracted over 62,000 donations from customers, leading to the restoration of more than 53 hectares of forest, equivalent to 35,000 trees, thereby exceeding the initial targets of 50 hectares and 30,000 trees.

From September to October 2024, the airline also introduced the “Flying Light to Con Dao” campaign, aimed at reducing CO2 emissions, recycling plastic waste, and promoting sustainable aviation and tourism on Con Dao Island.

Con Dao, an archipelago in Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province, is known for its stunning beaches, clear waters, and diverse ecosystems. Beyond its natural beauty, Con Dao holds historical significance linked to Vietnam’s revolutionary struggle for independence. However, the rapid growth of tourism in recent years has placed immense pressure on the island’s waste management infrastructure, particularly regarding plastic waste. Additionally, climate change has negatively impacted environmental quality and threatened the island’s unique ecosystems.

Through the “Flying Light to Con Dao” campaign, Vietnam Airlines, in collaboration with local authorities, partners, and residents, has collected tons of plastic waste, recycling it into useful items for the local community. The campaign has also educated over 2,000 students in Con Dao about environmental protection and plastic waste reduction in all local schools. Looking ahead, the initiative will enhance efforts for plastic waste collection and recycling while diversifying activities to raise environmental awareness among both tourists and residents.

“The concept of ‘Flying Light’ within this campaign redefines sustainable flying for Vietnam Airlines. It encourages passengers to minimize luggage weight and reduce plastic waste, thereby ‘lightening’ the overall weight of flights, lowering CO2 emissions, and decreasing plastic pollution in the environment,” said a representative from Vietnam Airlines.

In September, Vietnam Airlines successfully operated a flight as part of the SkyTeam The Aviation Challenge 2024. The flight, coded VN11, departed from Ho Chi Minh City to Paris on September 16.

On the special flight, Vietnam Airlines conducted various activities to raise awareness and promote environmental protection among passengers. The passengers were gifted with an emblematic plush toy – the endangered white-cheeked gibbon (Nomascus leucogenys) – one of the most highly threatened primates in the world. This also aligns with the “Contribute Leaves to the Forests – For a Green and Sustainable Vietnam” campaign. These plush toy are crafted by a social enterprise that supports individuals with disabilities, providing livelihoods for those in need while promoting a humanitarian message.

Passengers on
Passengers on “The Aviation Challenge” flight VN11 were presented with plush toys of the white-cheeked gibbon, the mascot of the ‘Contributing Leaves to the Forests’ campaign.

Flight VN11 promoted the concept of “light flying,” encouraging passengers to minimize their luggage weight on this route. By carrying fewer items, passengers helped reduce the aircraft’s overall weight, which in turn can lower fuel consumption and decrease CO2 emissions.

The airline has also collaborated with the United States Soybean Export Council (USSEC) to create healthier and more sustainable meal trays. Each meal incorporates enhanced vegetables and plant-based ingredients, prepared using nutritious cooking methods. Importantly, the fish and seafood served meet ASC standards – an internationally recognized certification for responsibly farmed seafood that reduces negative impacts on the environment, ecosystems, and local communities. This initiative is further supported by sustainably sourced U.S. soybean products.

Moreover, flight VN11 significantly reduced the use of nylon and single-use plastics, a practice that Vietnam Airlines has committed to across its network for years. This initiative has led to the elimination of tens of millions of plastic items and bags each year.

To operate flight VN11 in line with SkyTeam’s challenge, Vietnam Airlines utilized a Boeing 787-9 equipped with next-generation engines that significantly reduce emissions and noise pollution. It also optimized the flight path to Europe, which not only shortened travel times but also lowered fuel consumption and minimized environmental impact. These strategies—utilizing a modern fleet and optimizing flight paths—are crucial to Vietnam Airlines’ commitment to sustainable development. According to the airline, it has reduced CO2 emissions by 75,000 tons in the first nine months of 2024 through various fuel-saving initiatives.

A representative from Vietnam Airlines affirmed: As Vietnam’s flag carrier, we have always prioritized our social and environmental responsibilities, including our commitment to supporting Vietnam’s ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. We are proud to be an active and responsible member of the SkyTeam global airline alliance.”

“The Aviation Challenge” (TAC) is an initiative launched by the global airline alliance SkyTeam, aimed at promoting sustainable innovation within the aviation industry. TAC 2024’s theme is ‘Adoption,’ focusing on encouraging airlines to integrate and apply more sustainable solutions across all operations – from fuel management, flight operations, in-flight services to ground handling, cargo processing, and the use of digital technology to enhance resource conservation.

Hashtag: #VietnamAirlines

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