Home Blog Page 1327

Xinhua Silk Road: A bowl of Changle gangmian noodles comforts homesickness thousands of miles away

BEIJING, Dec. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 3rd Overseas Chinese Talent Conference for Development was held in Fuzhou, capital city of southeast China’s Fujian Province on December 1-3, with overseas Chinese of Fujian origin from 39 countries and regions gathering by the Minjiang River.

As a famous hometown of many overseas Chinese, Changle District in Fuzhou has over 700,000 overseas compatriots. There is one simple bowl of noodles called Changle gangmian noodles that links folk customs of the Dragon Boat Festival, the warmth of a mother and the homesickness of a wanderer.

These thick and springy handmade noodles are not only a name card of local flavor but also a cultural code carrying the shared memory of Changle people, making them a unique bond between Changle and its wanderers across the world.

According to the folk customs of Changle, gangmian and zongzi (glutinous rice dumpling) are both essential food for the Dragon Boat Festival. The locals say that zongzi is shaped like “dragon horns”, and gangmian noodles are symbolized as “dragon whiskers”. Eating both during the festival implies “the dragon in the heart”, expressing people’s good wishes of warding off evils and disasters, and seeking good health.

The traditional way of making gangmian noodles is a skill that is full of strength and craftsmanship. From kneading, rolling out and cutting the flour, every step tests the experience and patience of the chef. The hand-rolled noodles are chewy, smooth and do not become mushy even after long cooking, representing the Changle people’s persistent and fighting spirits.

Soup base is the soul of a bowl of authentic Changle gangmian noodles. The soup is made with pork ribs and pork large intestines to enhance the aroma, and boiled with crab, dried shrimp, dried fish, clams and other seafood. The mixture of the ingredients makes the soup base fresh, rich, and multi-layered, combing flavors both from mountains and sea. This implies Changle people’s characteristics of open-minded, inclusive and dare to venture and strive.

Today, although gangmian noodles are innovating while inheriting, giving rise to various ways of enjoying, the traditional craftsmanship and emotional value at the core have remained unchanged. For the people of Changle who have gone abroad to make a living, gangmian has long transcended food itself and become a synonym for homesickness.

Original link: https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/348638.html

Agilent and Monash University Malaysia Mark 15-Year Partnership with New BioDiscovery Hub to Drive Regional Biotech Innovation

Collaboration aimed at accelerating R&D in both small- and large-molecule analysis and building high-impact capabilities in fast-growing Asian markets

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Dec. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) announced the expansion of their strategic collaboration with Monash University in Malaysia to establish a state-of-the-art MUMPMP-Agilent BioDiscovery Hub aimed at accelerating regional biotechnology research and innovation. The new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed as part of the celebration of their 15-year strategic partnership, underscoring Agilent’s continued commitment to advancing high-impact R&D capabilities in fast-growing Asian markets.

Representatives from Agilent Technologies and Monash University Malaysia at the MOU signing ceremony in Sunway, Malaysia on December 4, 2025.
Representatives from Agilent Technologies and Monash University Malaysia at the MOU signing ceremony in Sunway, Malaysia on December 4, 2025.

Under the renewed agreement, Agilent will place its high-resolution Revident Quadrupole Time of Flight LC/MS systems, coupled with 1290 Infinity III High-Performing LC series, and the next-generation 5977C Gas Chromatography/MSD, at the new hub to support mutually agreed research programs, applications development, workshops, and scientific training. This collaboration is designed to accelerate R&D in both small- and large-molecule analysis, enabling deeper insights across biomedical, pharmaceutical, and molecular biology fields.    

“This collaboration reflects Monash University Malaysia’s commitment to delivering world-class research infrastructure that advances discovery and benefits our communities. The MUMPMP–Agilent BioDiscovery Hub strengthens Monash’s position as a regional leader in proteomics, metabolomics, and biotechnology innovation. By combining Agilent’s state-of-the-art technologies with Monash’s research excellence and multidisciplinary ecosystem, we are empowering our scientists and partners to drive impactful solutions for Malaysia and the Asia-Pacific region.” Said Dr Syafiq Asnawi, Senior Lecturer in Biomedical Science and Director of the Department of Molecular Epidemiology & Translational Medicine and the MUM Proteomics & Metabolomics Platform.

“At Agilent, we support Monash University in enhancing biological research through proteomics, metabolomics and lipidomics. Our renewed collaboration with Monash University Malaysia continues our 15-year collaboration and positions Agilent as a leader in biotechnology innovation. The BioDiscovery Hub will drive scientific progress, talent development, and creating long-term value for customers and partners,” said Bharat Bhardwaj, Agilent’s vice president of Sales for Asia Pacific.

With more than 25 years of presence in Malaysia, Agilent continues contributing to the nation’s scientific landscape, helping drive national progress through academic-industry partnerships and workforce development, and reinforcing Malaysia’s position as a growing hub for analytical and biotechnological innovation across the region.

About Agilent Technologies

Agilent Technologies Inc. (NYSE: A) is a global leader in analytical and clinical laboratory technologies, delivering insights and innovation that help our customers bring great science to life. Agilent’s full range of solutions includes instruments, software, services, and expertise that provide trusted answers to our customers’ most challenging questions. The company generated revenue of $6.95 billion in fiscal year 2025 and employs approximately 18,000 people worldwide. Information about Agilent is available at www.agilent.com. To receive the latest Agilent news, subscribe to the Agilent Newsroom. Follow Agilent on LinkedIn and Facebook.

Media Contacts

Grace Thong
Agilent Technologies                                                                           
+65 9688 2152
grace.thong@agilent.com 

 

Gorilla Announces Delivery of CVR Payment Notice


London, United Kingdom – Newsfile Corp. – December 4, 2025 – Gorilla Technology Group Inc. (NASDAQ: GRRR) (“Gorilla”) today announced that each holder of Gorilla’s Class A contingent value rights (“CVRs”) will be entitled to a distribution of Gorilla ordinary shares, subject to restrictions provided for in the Contingent Value Rights Agreement included as Exhibit 4.1 of Gorilla’s Form 6-K filed with the SEC on July 19, 2022 (the “Contingent Value Rights Agreement”). All capitalized terms in this press release that are not defined shall have the meaning assigned to them in the Contingent Value Rights Agreement.

On November 18, 2025, the SPAC Representative and the Company Representative jointly delivered written instructions to the Escrow Agent advising that 587,747 Earnout Shares had been forfeited by the Company Shareholders. On December 4, 2025, the SPAC Representative and the Company jointly delivered a CVR Payment Notice identifying such 587,747 shares as Price Protection Shares, equating to 0.130382275 Ordinary Shares per Qualifying CVR Holder.

A holder of Class A CVRs may become a Qualifying CVR Holder by sending a notice (a “Notice”) containing the following information to cvr@gorilla-technology.com:

  • Legal name
  • Mailing Address
  • Country of residence
  • Citizenship
  • United States Taxpayer Identification Number or Social Security Number
  • A signed and dated United States Internal Revenue Service W-8 or W-9
  • Email Address
  • The Number of Class A CVRs held by the holder as of December 4, 2025.
  • If CVRs are held in a brokerage account, then the name and contact details of the brokerage firm.

A Notice is invalid (an “Invalid Notice”) unless the Notice contains all the information above and sufficient detail to cause Gorilla to believe with a commercially reasonable degree of certainty that the content of the Notice is accurate (a “Valid Notice”). If Gorilla determines in good faith that a Notice is an Invalid Notice, Gorilla will inform the sender of the Notice that the Notice is an Invalid Notice through a reply to the email containing the Invalid Notice. If the sender of an Invalid Notice subsequently provides information or otherwise enables Gorilla to verify information such that the total mix of information available to Gorilla would constitute a Valid Notice, then the sender shall be deemed to have delivered a Valid Notice.

A holder cannot become a Qualifying CVR Holder unless that holder delivers a Valid Notice. If a CVR Holder fails to become a Qualifying CVR Holder within one year of the delivery of the CVR Payment Notice, the ordinary shares underlying such distribution will be deemed to have been forfeited.

This press release shall satisfy Gorilla’s obligation to issue a press release under 2.3(a) of the Contingent Value Rights Agreement.

About Gorilla Technology Group Inc.

Headquartered in London U.K., Gorilla is a global solution provider in Security Intelligence, Network Intelligence, Business Intelligence and IoT technology. We provide a wide range of solutions, including Smart City, Network, Video, Security Convergence and IoT, across select verticals of Government & Public Services, Manufacturing, Telecom, Retail, Transportation & Logistics, Healthcare and Education, by using AI and Deep Learning Technologies.

Our expertise lies in revolutionizing urban operations, bolstering security and enhancing resilience. We deliver pioneering products that harness the power of AI in intelligent video surveillance, facial recognition, license plate recognition, edge computing, post-event analytics and advanced cybersecurity technologies. By integrating these AI-driven technologies, we empower Smart Cities to enhance efficiency, safety and cybersecurity measures, ultimately improving the quality of life for residents.

For more information, please visit our website: Gorilla-Technology.com.

Important Information and Where to Find It

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or exchange, or the solicitation of an offer to buy or exchange, any securities, nor shall there be any sale of securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, sale or exchange would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such jurisdiction.

Public Relations Contact:
Samantha Dowd and Kiki Tarkhan
Prosek Partners
GRRR@prosek.com

Investor Relations Contact:
RedChip Companies, Inc.
1-407-644-4256
GRRR@redchip.com

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

About Gorilla Technology Group Inc.

Global Qualifications Made Local: Leading Overseas Universities Partner with SIM


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 December 2025 – For students seeking an international education experience without relocating overseas, Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) offers a wealth of globally recognised degree options through partnerships with top universities around the world. These programmes deliver the same academic rigour and credentials as their home campuses, giving learners a competitive edge while remaining close to family and local opportunities.

University of London

The University of London (UoL) is one of the most established overseas degree providers in Singapore, having partnered with SIM Global Education (SIM GE) for more than 38 years.

Through this collaboration, students can pursue degrees in fields such as Business, Banking and Finance, Data Science, Economics, and International Relations. The programmes follow the same curricula and are examined by the same academic boards as those in the UK. SIM complements these with academic support, career services, a vibrant campus life and helping students gain a truly global education while staying rooted in Singapore.

University of Birmingham

The University of Birmingham, a member of the UK’s prestigious Russell Group of research-intensive universities, partners with SIM Global Education (SIM GE) to offer both undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in Singapore.

At the undergraduate level, the Bachelor of Science (Honours) Business Management (Top-up) equips students with analytical and strategic skills necessary for today’s competitive business environment.

For postgraduate learners, SIM GE offers the Master of Business Administration (MBA), designed for professionals seeking to strengthen their leadership, strategic management, and decision-making capabilities. The programme blends academic rigour with practical business applications, preparing graduates for senior management roles and global career opportunities.

University of Stirling

The University of Stirling at SIM offers globally recognised, research-led programmes designed to develop career-ready graduates. With flexible learning options, industry-relevant curriculum, and opportunities for global exposure, Stirling equips students with the skills and knowledge to thrive in today’s competitive job market.

University at Buffalo, The State University of New York

For students who prefer an American-style education, the University at Buffalo (UB) offers full U.S. degree programmes at SIM GE. Students can major in Communication, Psychology, or International Trade, earning a degree directly from UB – “a premier U.S. public university in Singapore … at a fraction of the cost” The UB programmes are taught by faculty approved by the home campus, maintaining the same academic standards and assessments as in New York.

University of Alberta

The University of Alberta holds a position among the top 4 universities in Canada and is internationally recognized as a leading post-secondary institution, ranking within the top 100 universities worldwide. Its steadfast dedication to excellence in research, teaching, and innovation spans over a century.

RMIT University

RMIT University, based in Melbourne, is another major Australian partner of SIM GE. Known for its industry-focused learning, RMIT’s programmes in Business Management, Marketing, and Logistics and Supply Chain Management are designed with employability in mind.

Students gain hands-on experience through case studies and project-based learning. The partnership allows Singapore students to graduate with the same Australian degree as those studying in Melbourne, often within two to three years.

University of Wollongong

The University of Wollongong (UOW), ranked among the world’s top 200 universities, partners exclusively with SIM Global Education in Singapore to offer IT, business information systems, cybersecurity, and data analytics programs taught by UOW faculty. Since 2005, over 3,000 UOW degrees have been awarded at SIM, with pathways for transfers to Australia and industry internships. Students enjoy access to SIM’s vibrant campus life, academic support, and opportunities for awards from agencies like CSIT and IMDA.

The University of Sydney

Over 3,500 of Singapore’s most talented health professionals have graduated with our nursing and health science related degrees, offered in partnership with SIM GE. The nursing programmes are developed, fully taught and awarded by The University of Sydney and accredited by the Singapore Nursing Board.

La Trobe University

La Trobe University is a public research university located in Melbourne, Australia. It was established in 1964 and is now the third university in the state of Victoria. The university is in the top five per cent of business schools worldwide to have earned an AACSB accreditation for delivering excellence in every aspect of the university’s work.

Monash College

Monash College is fully owned by Monash University, Australia’s largest university. The College is the preferred pathway to Monash University for international students. Through innovative programmes which align with the high standards of Monash University, we equip students for life at university, and beyond.

Grenoble Ecole de Management

Founded in Grenoble, Grenoble Ecole de Management (GEM) has greatly developed its expertise in the management of technology and innovation—an expertise that is now the foundation of the institution’s excellence and international renown. The school is accredited by AACSB, EQUIS and AMBA, and is a member of the French ‘Conférence des Grandes Ecoles’.

A Hub for Global Degrees

SIM Global Education offers over 140 full-time and part-time academic programmes from international universities partners.

Students here can earn world-class qualifications, gain exposure to diverse teaching approaches, and access global alumni networks all at lower cost and greater convenience than studying abroad.

As SIM GE highlights, its degrees are “globally recognised, with the same curricula and academic standards as those awarded onshore”

In an increasingly competitive world, these overseas degree options in Singapore offer the best of both worlds – international credentials with local advantage.

References:

  1. University of London – Teaching Centre: Singapore – https://www.london.ac.uk/study/where-study/teaching-centre/singapore
  2. SIM Global Education – University of London Programmes – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/university-…
  3. SIM Global Education – RMIT University – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/rmit-univer…
  4. SIM Global Education – University at Buffalo – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/university-…
  5. SIM Global Education – University of Alberta – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/university-…
  6. SIM Global Education – University of Birmingham – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/university-…
  7. SIM Global Education – University of Wollongong – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/university-…
  8. SIM Global Education – The University of Sydney – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/the-univers…
  9. SIM Global Education – La Trobe University – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/la-trobe-un…
  10. SIM Global Education – Grenoble Ecole de Management – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/grenoble-ec…
  11. SIM Global Education – Monash College – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/monash-coll…
  12. SIM Global Education – University of Stirling – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge/university-…
  13. SIM Global Education – Overview of Degree and Diploma Programmes – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/overview
  14. SIM Global Education – University Partner Page – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/university-partners-sim-ge

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #CareerReady #FutureSkills #HigherEducation #GlobalDegrees

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

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit sim.edu.sg

Whale Cloud Receives Frost & Sullivan’s 2025 Asia-Pacific Technology Innovation Leadership Recognition for Excellence in AI-enabled OSS/BSS Solutions

Recognized for pioneering AI-driven innovation, customer-centric digital transformation, and customer experience for CSPs.

SAN ANTONIO, Dec. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Frost & Sullivan is pleased to announce that Whale Cloud has been recognized with the 2025 Asia-Pacific Technology Innovation Leadership Recognition in the AI-enabled OSS/BSS industry for its outstanding achievements in innovation, platform integration, and customer impact. This recognition highlights Whale Cloud’s consistent leadership in driving measurable outcomes, strengthening its market position, and delivering AI innovation and customer-centric digital transformation. With AI increasingly driving solutions for customers, the company has proactively pre-empted some key challenges to ensure customers seamlessly benefit from use of AI.

Frost & Sullivan evaluates companies through a rigorous benchmarking process across two core dimensions: business impact and strategic technology leverage. Whale Cloud excelled in both, demonstrating its ability to align strategic initiatives with market demand while executing them with efficiency, consistency, and scale.

“Whale Cloud is well positioned to ride out a growth trajectory over the next three to five years. WhaleDI AI will do well in growing the use of AI orchestration within mobile services and other vertical industries,” said Mei Lee Quah, Senior Director, ICT Research at Frost & Sullivan.

Guided by a long-term growth strategy centered on AI innovation, ecosystem partnerships, and customer success, Whale Cloud continues to lead in delivering end to end digital transformation across the Asia-Pacific region. Founded in 2003 and formerly known as ZTEsoft, the company has been building its big data and AI capabilities for many years. Today, Whale Cloud delivers cutting-edge OSS/BSS, cloud, big data, and AI-integrated solutions to communications service providers (CSPs), government agencies, and enterprises in over 80 countries. Its 19 global capability centers, including two dedicated to AI research and development, ensure sustained innovation and operational excellence.

Innovation remains central to Whale Cloud’s approach. Its flagship WhaleDI AI platform exemplifies its customer-centric commitment, enabling automation, personalization, and operational intelligence across diverse industries. The platform addresses critical challenges such as fragmented data, slow service rollout, and limited personalization by integrating multimodal AI for predictive, generative, and preceptive decision-making. Strategically embedded across Whale Cloud’s core offerings—including the ZSmart Digital OSS/BSS suite, cloud solutions, and smart city platforms—WhaleDI AI enhances automation, optimizes customer journeys, and drives real-time intelligence at scale. The end-to-end integration of WhaleDI AI across platforms enables customers to leverage AI as embedded AI capabilities across all layers.

“This recognition reflects our long-term commitment to advancing AI-driven innovation across telecom operations. By embedding intelligence into our ZSmart Digital OSS/BSS solutions, we aim to help CSPs simplify complexity, enhance agility, and accelerate digital transformation. This award is a testament to the dedication of our teams and the trust of our customers and partners,” said Steven Cho, CMO of Whale Cloud International.

Whale Cloud’s ZSmart Digital OSS/BSS suite supports modular deployment, AI-driven orchestration, and predictive maintenance to deliver improved operational efficiency and reduced total cost of ownership (TCO) for CSPs. Complementary solutions, including Digital Marketing Cloud (DMC), Fiber as a Service (FaaS), and Intelligent Network & Service Operation Center (iNOC), extend AI-driven capabilities to customer engagement, fiber deployment, and network operations. Through strong partnerships with Alibaba Cloud, ZTE, and selected ecosystem including with Alipay+ Payment Tech, Whale Cloud continues to accelerate digital transformation services, and smart city initiatives across emerging markets in Asia-Pacific, Africa, and Latin America.

Frost & Sullivan commends Whale Cloud for setting a high standard in competitive strategy, technology innovation, and execution excellence. The company’s vision, robust innovation pipeline, and customer-first culture are shaping the future of AI-enabled OSS/BSS and driving measurable results for service providers and enterprises worldwide.

Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents the Technology Innovation Leadership Recognition to a company that demonstrates outstanding strategy development and implementation, resulting in measurable improvements in market share, customer satisfaction, and competitive positioning. The recognition honors forward-thinking organizations that are redefining their industries through technological innovation and growth excellence.

Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Recognition

Frost & Sullivan’s Best Practices Recognitions honor companies across regional and global markets that exhibit exceptional achievement and consistent excellence in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer experience, and strategic product development. Each recognition is the result of a rigorous analytical process in which Frost & Sullivan industry experts benchmark performance through comprehensive interviews, deep-dive analysis, and extensive secondary research. The goal is to identify true best-in-class organizations that are driving transformative growth and setting new industry standards.
Contact us: Start the discussion.

Contact:
Ashley Shreve
E: ashley.weinkauf@frost.com 

About Whale Cloud
Whale Cloud is a leading technology company that specializes in the digital transformation of telecommunication service providers and other verticals. We provide mission-critical solutions and services in Telecom, FinTech, and E&G sectors. At Whale Cloud, we’re passionate about creating frictionless experiences for customers and empowering their digital ambitions.

Contact:
Xu Dong
E: dong.xu51@iwhalecloud.com

OTR Therapeutics Raises $100 Million in Series A Financing to Advance Early Innovation into Global Transformative Therapies

SHANGHAI, Dec. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — OTR Therapeutics, a biotechnology company dedicated to transforming early-stage innovations into globally impactful therapies, emerged from stealth and announced today the successful completion of a $100 million Series A financing closed in June 2025. The round was backed by True Light Capital, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Temasek, LAV, Pfizer Ventures, and Sirona Capital.

Founded in March 2025, OTR Therapeutics is establishing a novel, scalable, and capital-efficient model that synergizes internal R&D with strategic curation of high-potential external innovation. This integrated approach enables the company to focus on scientific rigor and operational agility, leveraging its deep regional insights and the development efficiency of the local ecosystem to accelerate innovative therapies to patients worldwide.

The proceeds of the financing will advance OTR’s pipeline of differentiated programs that target significant treatment gaps in immunology & inflammation, oncology, and other disease areas. The funds will also expand OTR’s R&D hub capability, which emphasizes both scientific excellence and strategic partnership agility to foster expedited development of high-impact therapies.

In line with its strategy, OTR also announced the acquisition of a preclinical program with best-in-class potential for neurological diseases with high unmet needs. This acquisition is part of the company’s strategic and ongoing efforts to identify and advance promising early-stage assets into global clinical development, alongside its internal proprietary discovery programs to address a broader range of critical patient needs.

“The rapidly evolving global pharmaceutical R&D landscape demands greater novelty, speed and efficiency,” said Dr. Zhui Chen, Founder and CEO of OTR Therapeutics. “At OTR, we aim to build a next-generation biotech model that delivers unprecedented R&D and capital efficiency. It enables us to stay agile while remaining rigorously focused on propelling novel, differentiated drug candidates through global clinical translation in a disciplined and efficient manner. We are grateful for the strong support from our investors and their confidence in our vision and capability to deliver transformative therapies for patients.”

Co-founded by Zhui Chen, Ph.D., Shannon Chuai, Ph.D., and Yuan Shi, Ph.D., OTR Therapeutics is led by a team of seasoned drug hunters and entrepreneurs in the biotech and pharmaceutical industries with a proven track record of delivering breakthrough innovation, operational excellence, and financial success.

Yi Shi, Managing Director, LAV: “We believe the biopharma industry is shifting towards more capital-efficient and specialized R&D models. OTR Therapeutics is at the forefront of this evolution, demonstrating how a focused, integrated framework can expedite the journey of translating early-stage innovation into global clinical development.”

Michael Baran, Partner, Pfizer Ventures: “Pfizer Ventures identifies and invests in emerging companies who are developing innovative medicines and technologies that have the potential to shape the future of our industry. To this end, we’re pleased to be able to support OTR Therapeutics as it scales its R&D capabilities and builds a portfolio of potentially transformative therapies.”

About True Light
True Light (Shanghai) Private Equity invests in innovative, high-growth businesses in Greater China. It is a subsidiary of True Light Capital and is registered with the Asset Management Association of China. True Light Capital is an asset manager headquartered in Singapore and currently has assets under management of ~US$4b from global investors. It manages funds that are focused on investing in high-quality investment opportunities which have a nexus to or have a major business relationship with Greater China. True Light Capital and True Light (Shanghai) Private Equity are independent, wholly-owned subsidiaries of Temasek (www.temasek.com.sg). For more information on True Light, please visit: www.truelightcap.com.

About OTR Therapeutics
OTR Therapeutics is a biotechnology company dedicated to transforming early-stage innovations into globally impactful therapies for critical diseases with high unmet medical needs. With a strategic focus on oncology, immunology and inflammation, and cardiometabolic diseases, we discover and acquire distinctive assets in preclinical and early clinical stages, and accelerate their development into differentiated, clinically impactful treatments through our R&D hub built for speed, quality and efficiency. By combining scientific rigor with agile partnerships, we deliver exceptional value to our partners and patients worldwide. From our advanced R&D center in Shanghai’s Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Park, we actively collaborate with a global network of partners across the US, Europe, and Asia. www.otr-tx.com

IMAX and Wanda Film to Explore Opportunities for Joint Merchandise Development and Retail initiatives

Longstanding Strategic Partnership Expands into Consumer Products and the Growing “Lobby Economy”

SHANGHAI, Dec. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — IMAX Corporation (NYSE: IMAX), IMAX China Holding, Inc. (HKEX: 1970) and Wanda Film Holding Co., Ltd. (SZSE: 002739), China’s largest cinema operator, today announced the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to deepen their strategic partnership in merchandise development and IP initiatives. The agreement underscores the companies’ strategic alignment towards the structural shift underway in China’s film market and their shared commitment to developing the broader, cinema-driven consumer ecosystem emerging beyond the box office.

With this MOU, Wanda Film and IMAX will collaborate on merchandise development, brand-driven IP initiatives and retail programs, leveraging their extensive nationwide networks as sales channels to reach wider audiences. The two partners will work to create new revenue streams by tapping into the growing “lobby economy” and expanding incremental consumer engagement beyond the traditional box-office business. By combining the partners’ brand influence, content resources and distribution reach, this collaboration is poised to effectively tap into the growing momentum behind cinema-driven retail innovation in the market.

The announcement was made during IMAX’s Investor Day and follows a series of IMAX’s box-office milestones across the China market, fueled by the strong performances of “Demon Slayer: Infinity Castle” and “Zootopia 2”. The MOU also marks the second major expansion of the IMAX–Wanda Film partnership this year, following Wanda Film’s announcement in June that it will convert up to 27 premium-format auditoriums to IMAX systems. This continued momentum reflects Wanda Film’s confidence in IMAX’s brand equity and the growing commercial potential of China’s premium cinema sector, at a time when rising demand for film-inspired and culturally expressive consumer products is accelerating opportunities for new ancillary business models across the industry.

“Wanda Film’s exploration of diversified businesses is accelerating in practice. In June this year, we further evolved our Super Entertainment Space strategy into a new ‘1+2+5’ blueprint, with the ‘2’ referring to the domestic and international markets. Under this new direction, we aim to broaden our market reach and co-create more opportunities with global partners,” said Chen Zhixi, Chairwoman of Wanda Film. “IMAX has long been one of our most important partners. Beyond elevating content and the viewing experience, this expanded collaboration will see Wanda Film leveraging its venue advantages together with IMAX’s global network to jointly build a new industry ecosystem.”

“The IMAX experience begins on the big screen, but our story doesn’t end there,” said Daniel Manwaring, CEO of IMAX China. “We’re extending the hallmark feature of IMAX into more consumer touchpoints. As IMAX’s largest exhibition partner worldwide, Wanda Film brings invaluable local insight and operational excellence to this effort. Together, we are taking a pivotal step forward in building a broader ecosystem – one that grows sustainably beyond the theatrical experience and engages an even wider spectrum of consumers.”

As an effort to attract younger audiences and expand the influence of IMAX’s brand equity beyond the big screen into a broader range of lifestyle contexts, IMAX has accelerated cross-industry collaborations that extend its presence beyond traditional moviegoing. Earlier this year, IMAX partnered with Razer on co-branded keycaps and mouse peripherals, bringing the IMAX DNA into creative, gaming, and esports environments and establishing a scalable model for future merchandise initiatives.

About Wanda Film

Wanda Film is China’s leading film and entertainment company and a key force shaping the country’s evolving theatrical and content landscape. Guided by its strategic vision of building a “super entertainment space,” the company operates across five major business pillars — cinema exhibition, film and TV production, strategic investments, licensed merchandise and collectibles, and gaming — driving synergies across the entire entertainment value chain.

As China’s largest cinema operator, Wanda Film has ranked No. 1 nationwide in box office revenue, admissions, and market share for sixteen consecutive years. Its footprint extends beyond China through HOYTS, which consistently ranks among the top exhibitors in Australia and New Zealand, further strengthening Wanda Film’s international presence.

In content production, Wanda Film has produced and released nearly 200 titles to date, reaching a cumulative global box office of over RMB 100 billion. The company continues to build a robust, IP-driven content ecosystem, with a strong focus on creative excellence, high-quality production, and talent development.

Wanda Film also advances strategic investments that complement its core businesses and create new momentum for long-term growth. Its consumer products arm, Rtime, develops licensed merchandise, art collectibles and lifestyle products, combining original IP incubation with top-tier global licensing partnerships. Through its proprietary Rtime Link digital certification platform, the company integrates physical collectibles with digital assets, enabling innovative, data-driven rights management.

In gaming, Wanda Film is expanding the boundaries of entertainment by creating deeper connections between games and film IP, fostering a co-creative ecosystem rather than a one-directional licensing model.

Looking ahead, Wanda Film will continue to advance its “super entertainment space” strategy, leveraging technology and innovation to build a more dynamic, diversified and high-quality entertainment landscape for audiences in China and around the world.

About IMAX China

IMAX China is a subsidiary of IMAX Corporation and was incorporated as a limited liability company under the laws of Cayman Islands. IMAX China was established by IMAX Corporation specifically to oversee the expansion of IMAX’s business throughout Greater China. Shares of IMAX China trade on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange under the stock code “1970”.

About IMAX Corporation

IMAX, an innovator in entertainment technology, combines proprietary software, architecture, and equipment to create experiences that take you beyond the edge of your seat to a world you’ve never imagined. Top filmmakers and studios are utilizing IMAX systems to connect with audiences in extraordinary ways, making IMAX’s network among the most important and successful theatrical distribution platforms for major event films around the globe.

IMAX is headquartered in New York, Toronto and Los Angeles, with additional offices in London, Dublin, Tokyo and Shanghai. As of September 30, 2025, there were 1,829 IMAX systems (1,759 commercial multiplexes, 10 commercial destinations and 60 institutional locations) operating in 89 countries and territories. Shares of IMAX China Holding, Inc., a subsidiary of IMAX Corporation, trade on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange under the stock code “1970.”

IMAX®, IMAX 3D®, Experience It In IMAX®, The IMAX Experience®, DMR®, Filmed For IMAX®, IMAX Live®, IMAX Enhanced® and IMAX StreamSmart™ are trademarks and trade names of the Company or its subsidiaries that are registered or otherwise protected under laws of various jurisdictions. For more information, visit www.imax.com. You can also connect with IMAX on Instagram (www.instagram.com/company/imax), Facebook (www.facebook.com/imax), LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com/company/imax), X (www.twitter.com/imax), and YouTube (www.youtube.com/imaxmovies).

TUTTOFOOD 2026 SET TO WELCOME OVER 100,000 VISITORS TO MILAN

With 80% of exhibitors confirmed – 30% from abroad – and more than 70 countries represented, participation is set to boost by 15–20% over the last editions

MILAN, Dec. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — TUTTOFOOD, Southern Europe’s leading food business platform, taking place from 11 to 14 May 2026 in Milan, is set to deliver strong international growth in its 2026 edition. With 80% of exhibitors already confirmed, including a record-breaking 30% international presence, participation is expected to rise by 15–20% compared to previous editions.

TUTTOFOOD
TUTTOFOOD

In 2025, the Exhibition attracted a significant presence of international TPOs, 95,000 professional visitors from over 100 countries, 3,000 international top buyers and 4,200 exhibitors from 70 countries – nearly double the numbers from previous editions. These data confirm the Exhibition’s international role as a strategic hub connecting producers, distributors, and global markets.

Antonio Cellie, CEO of Fiere di Parma, said: “The strong results already achieved by the second edition of TUTTOFOOD reflect the energy and international appeal of Milan, a city that embodies innovation and connection. They show the power of strategic, system-wide collaborations. Alongside our key partnership with ITA – Italian Trade Agency, whose programs attract top global agrifood buyers, one of the Exhibition’s greatest strengths is the collaboration between Fiere di Parma and Koelnmesse, the organizer of Anuga in Cologne, held in alternate years to TUTTOFOOD.”

Six months ahead of the event, early confirmations from 34 countries further highlight the strong business opportunities available across its pavilions.

TUTTOFOOD 2026 will feature a rich Buyers Program organized in cooperation with ITA – Italian Trade Agency, bringing together more than 3,000 top national and international professionals. Qualified buyers will arrive from across Japan, the ASEAN area, China, Taiwan, South Korea, Europe, Middle East, North and South America, with further top-level participation expected from Oceania, South Africa, and Central Asia.

TUTTOFOOD 2026 will feature a more compact and visitor-friendly layout, designed to enhance navigation and product discovery. Italian and international exhibitors will be showcased side by side across 90.000 sqm of net exhibition space – 15% more than in 2025 spread across 10 pavilions.

Two multi-level pavilions will host the packaged food hub, offering a comprehensive journey through every segment of the food industry. From dairy and deli products to frozen foods, seafood, and proteins, the exhibition will present a wide variety of categories, with grocery playing a central role across several pavilions.

The upcoming edition will shine a spotlight on emerging, largely unexplored agri-food business segments, driving global consumer trends closely tracked by TUTTOFOOD.

Key pavilion highlights will include a dedicated Beverage section featuring the fifth edition of Mixology Experience — an area within the pavilion where the concept of Beverage Pairing serves as the common thread linking the project to TUTTOFOOD — along with spaces dedicated to innovation in the fresh and processed fruit and vegetable sector.

The revamped Tutto Fruit & Veg area will bring together categories and trends from around the world. Among the key new highlights of the 2026 edition of TUTTOFOOD is the launch of a dedicated special area focused on the organic segment, which is experiencing strong growth across major distribution channel. The special area is called TuttoBio by Natexpo and is conceived as an international organic pavilion gathering certified organic production from Europe and beyond.

The experience will be completed by thematic spaces devoted to bakery and snacks, confectionery and coffee, celebrating the diversity and excellence of packaged food from around the world.

This new configuration will streamline visitor orientation and enhance the overall experience of product discovery.

Photo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/tuttofood.jpg
Logo – https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/tuttofood_logo.jpg