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Cambodia’s Relocation of People From UNESCO Site Raises Concerns

Chhem Hay, 37, stands at a main door of her house under construction at Run Ta Ek village in Siem Reap province, Cambodia, on 2 April. (AP Photo/Heng Sinith)

RUN TA EK, Cambodia (AP) — It’s been more than a year since Yem Srey Pin moved with her family from the village where she was born on Cambodia’s Angkor UNESCO World Heritage site to Run Ta Ek, a dusty new settlement about 25 kilometers away.

A tattered Cambodian flag flaps gently in the scorching midday sun on her corner lot, its depiction of the Angkor Wat temple barely still visible, while her brother scoops water from a clay cistern onto a neighbor’s cow that he tends during the day.

Hers is one of about 5,000 families relocated from the sprawling archaeological site, one of Southeast Asia’s top tourist draws, by Cambodian authorities in an ongoing program that Amnesty International has condemned as a “gross violation of international human rights law.” Another 5,000 families are still due to be moved.

The allegations have drawn strong expressions of concern from UNESCO and a spirited rebuttal from Cambodian authorities, who say they’re doing nothing more than protecting the heritage land from illegal squatters.

The Gentle Art Academy expands its Championship Program from Katong to Novena


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 April 2024 – The Gentle Art Academy, one of the top competitive Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu academies in Singapore, is excited to announce the opening of its new training facility in Novena, Singapore, slated for May 2024.

Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Training
Brazilian Jiu Jitsu Training

With a commitment to fostering personal growth and physical wellness, The Gentle Art Academy brings its championship-proven syllabus to Novena, offering a range of classes suitable for adults and kids from beginners to advanced practitioners.

“Our expansion to Novena represents our dedication to making martial arts accessible to all,” says Ashley, Founder of The Gentle Art Academy. “We’re thrilled to introduce our holistic approach to Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu training to the Novena community, empowering individuals to reach their full potential.”

The Gentle Art Academy prides itself in taking a structured approach to teaching martial arts in a safe and supportive environment. They ensure that practitioners of all levels will learn essential life skills and confidence from dedicated coaches who are experts in the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu.

For more information or to enroll, visit https://thegentleartacademy.com/.

Hashtag: #bjj #brazilianjiujitsu #martialart #gentleart

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About The Gentle Art Academy

Established in 2014, The Gentle Art Academy was founded with a clear vision: to showcase the elegance of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and highlight its power in shaping students’ personal development.

We’ve nurtured competition teams through research and collaboration with learning experts, equipping students with the essential tools for mastering Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu techniques and fostering a mindset conducive to excelling both in training sessions and external competitions.

THE MICHELIN Guide Extends To Da Nang, Vietnam

HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 April 2024 – Michelin is delighted to announce that the MICHELIN Guide has added the city of Da Nang to its gourmet destination portfolio. Consequently, Da Nang becomes the third Vietnamese city to see its gastronomic scene spotlighted by the MICHELIN Guide Inspectors, right after the ones of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City where the MICHELIN Guide debuted last year.

The Michelin Guide

Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide, says: “We are absolutely delighted to continue the MICHELIN Guide’s journey in Vietnam. After a bright beginning earlier last year in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the addition of Da Nang to the MICHELIN Guide’s family is another proof of the vibrancy and quality of Vietnam’s culinary scene, as well as of the richness and authenticity of its local food culture. Our Inspectors are currently on the field to realize a restaurant selection we will be proud to share in June not only with local gourmets but also international food lovers and travelers“.

Danang Hand Bridge

Globally known as an acclaimed touristic destination, Da Nang is also a true heaven for food lovers. As a proud ambassador of Central Vietnamese cuisine, Da Nang has impressed the MICHELIN Guide Inspectors with quality and variety of local specialties available to offer – be it Mì Quảng, Bún Chả Cá or famous Bánh Xèo. Seafood restaurants, all proposing an abundance of very fresh or live marine creatures, as well as street food delicacies are not to be missed, and the MICHELIN Inspectors have been taking pleasure sitting by the side of the road to enjoy culinary gems, such as a bowl of congee with braised duck.

In addition to these traditional specialties or eateries, Da Nang also offers a lively fine dining scene, shaped by both local chefs making the most of local produce, as well as international chefs, who have fallen in love with the city and brought to it their hometown tastes.

The extension of the MICHELIN Guide to Vietnam is supported by Sun Group whose Chairman, Mr. Dang Minh Truong shared, “Celebrating the culinary excellence of Vietnam’s central coast, Sun Group is thrilled to embark on this gastronomic journey with the arrival of the MICHELIN Guide in Da Nang. Just as we have been dedicated to showcasing Vietnam’s rich culture and beauty to the world, we are excited to see the spotlight shine on the exceptional dining experiences that this vibrant city has to offer. We are delighted that the unique flavors and culinary wonders of Da Nang will finally be celebrated by both local and international food enthusiasts. The MICHELIN Guide’s presence in Da Nang will be further expected to illuminate the city on the world tourism map, contributing to attracting international visitors to Da Nang.”

The 2024 restaurant selection of the MICHELIN Guide Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Danang will be announced during one single ceremony, to be hosted in Ho Chi Minh City in June 2024 (exact date to be communicated later).

To learn more about the MICHELIN Guide history, methodology or selection organization, please visit guide.michelin.com/vn/en or follow updates on facebook.com/MichelinGuideAsia and instagram.com/michelinguide.

The MICHELIN Guide Worldwide app for iOS and Android devices.

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Hashtag: #MichelinGuide #DaNang #Vietnam



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About Michelin

Michelin’s ambition is to sustainably improve its customers’ mobility. The leader in the mobility sector, Michelin designs, manufactures, and distributes the tires best suited to their requirements and uses as well as services and solutions to improve transport efficacy. Michelin also puts forward offers that allow its customers to enjoy unique moments when traveling. Michelin also develops high-technology equipment intended for multiple fields. Based in Clermont-Ferrand, Michelin is present in 175 countries, employs 132,200 people and operates 67 tire factories that, together, produced approximately 167 million tires in 2022. ().

uFinance Student Loan: The Preferred Choice for Hong Kong Tertiary Students


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 April 2024 – Nowadays, Hong Kong tertiary students often want to seize every opportunity in their youth, such as applying for an exchange programme, learning new skills, or starting their own business to earn their first pot of gold. However, many students are forced to choose between reality and their dreams due to a lack of funds and a desire not to increase the financial burden to their families. To address the financial stress faced by tertiary students, uFinance, the Hong Kong student loan platform, now offers student loans to allow students to enjoy a worry-free tertiary school life. Differ from the traditional banks and financial institutions, uFinance prioritizes student privacy and offers a tailored loan plan. In addition, if university students encounter difficulties in paying their tuition fees, they can also apply for the uFinance University Student Tuition Loan, which offers the first-in-Hong Kong “Lowest Interest Guarantee”.

“Borrowing money” is no longer taboo: uFinance student loans can be processed entirely online

Many tertiary students who are new to loans may find it difficult to talk about “borrowing money”, and therefore hesitate during the loan process, missing the opportunities to pursue their dreams. Applying for the uFinance student loan does not require you to “show up” in person and can be processed entirely online. Applicants only require to fill out the online loan application form and upload the required documents to complete the application process. In addition, customer service representatives will only contact the applicants by phone to process loan approval and identity verification. After successful application, students can also choose to sign the loan contract and transfer money online to solve financial difficulties.

uFinance values customer privacy, keeps loan records confidential

Many tertiary students worry about their loan record being leaked to third parties when applying for student loans. uFinance understands the needs of tertiary students. For the past over 20,000 student loan applications, uFinance has promised student loan applicants that the personal information and loan records of the applicants will not be disclosed to schools and third parties, and letters will not be mailed to student loan applicants generally. The entire process is conducted over the phone, allowing students to enjoy a worry-free tertiary school life.

uFinance university student tuition loan – Introducing the ‘Lowest Interest Guarantee’ in Hong Kong

The application for Grant Loan/Non Means and other government subsidies involves complicated procedures. If students are unable to apply for the assistance or loans provided by the Student Finance Office in time, they will need to pay extra fines for not paying tuition fees on time. To solve the urgent need of university students, uFinance offers a special university tuition fee loan. After completing the application, the loan amount will be directly deposited into the school account, without the loan passing through their hands, to help students pay tuition fees as soon as possible. In addition, the ‘University Tuition Tuition Fee Loan‘ introduces the ‘Lowest Interest Guarantee’ in Hong Kong for the first time, offering the most favorable interest rate in the Hong Kong market (actual annual interest rate 6%). Applicants can choose a tuition loan of $21,050 per semester and can repay it in 6 to 48 months. After receiving government assistance, students can also choose to repay the remaining principal at any time without paying any fees.

Student Loan Information Platform – Preparing Students for Social Challenges

In addition to relieving students of financial burdens during their studies, uFinance hopes that students can obtain more helpful information for their life planning on the platform, such as internship job vacancies, living encyclopedias, and financial information. uFinance believes that the few years of undergraduate life have a significant impact on the future development of students. Therefore, it hopes that students can equip themselves well before entering society to meet future challenges. Also, uFinance will also cooperate with different businesses to provide students with exclusive discounts, so the tertiary students can develop financial management habits during their studies.
Hashtag: #uFinance #StudentLoan #UniversityStudent



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About uFinance

uFinance Hong Kong Limited (“uFinance”) was established in 2018 to provide the most suitable financial support for tertiary students in Hong Kong, enabling them to manage their own finances and take advantage of every learning opportunity. Compared to traditional financial institutions, uFinance does not require income proof as an approval criterion, nor does it require students to provide proof of address. Students are required to upload 2 documents (ID card and student card) to apply for the offered by uFinance. Since its inception, uFinance has served more than 10,000 students and has worked with over 200 societies from tertiary institutions.

Beyond financial support, uFinance also provides a one-stop information platform for tertiary students, including information on job hunting, internships, sponsorship and further studies, so that they can have a solid foundation to face different challenges before starting their careers. uFinance, Right After You!

New Water Bill Receipt Fee Sparks Outrage Among Residents in Bokeo

New Water Bill Receipt Fee Sparks Outrage Among Residents in Bokeo
This image is used only for representational purpose (photo: metrohm)

Bokeo Province’s Water Supply State Enterprise has stirred controversy with a new regulation requiring households to pay LAK 10,000 (approximately USD 0.47) for every water bill receipt. Residents are condemning the move, labeling it a burdensome financial measure by the government.

HKU hosts Inaugural Hong Kong Climate Forum Fostering collaborations to create regional and international impact on the climate front


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 April 2024 – The ambitious sustainability goals set by China and California, US, which are at the forefront of combatting climate change, have made collaborations between the Greater Bay Area (GBA) and the American state more pertinent than ever, speakers at the inaugural Hong Kong Climate Forum: Greater Bay Area – Climate Action and Cooperation held on 25 March at the University of Hong Kong noted.

HKU hosts Inaugural Hong Kong Climate Forum Fostering collaborations to create regional and international impact on the climate front
HKU hosts Inaugural Hong Kong Climate Forum Fostering collaborations to create regional and international impact on the climate front

Announced by President Xi Jinping in 2020, China has set a goal of having CO2 emissions peak before 2030 and achieving carbon neutrality before 2060, while California is committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2045, which was codified into Law by Governor Gavin Newsom.

Paul CHAN Mo-po, Financial Secretary of HKSAR, unveiled in his remarks Hong Kong’s vision and the government’s commitment in developing a sustainability disclosure ecosystem and formulating a set of local sustainability reporting standards aligned with international standards. He further highlighted the city’s strong foundation in research and education, particularly within its universities, as well as the significant presence of green-technology companies in Science Park and Cyberport, emphasising their crucial role in facilitating Hong Kong’s green transition.

Zhou Guomei, Director General of International Cooperation of Chinese Ministry of Ecology and Environment, in her opening remarks on behalf of Minister Huang Runqiu stressed the importance of leveraging this annual climate forum in Hong Kong as a hub to foster international climate cooperation between the GBA, China and overseas.

Wang Yi, vice-chairman of the China Experts Panel on Climate Change and a standing committee member of the National People’s Congress, said at the forum China’s green initiatives had become a driver for GDP growth, and collaborations between the Greater Bay Area and California would provide further stimulus by reducing costs at scale, and enhance the abilities to tackle climate change.

Zhu Wei, Deputy Director General of the Guangdong Provincial Development and Reform Commission, and Office of the Greater Bay Area, said Guangdong was poised to take the lead in decarbonizing through innovation and technology, by for example accelerating the development of a green manufacturing system, and accelerated adoption of renewable energy.

“GBA has already achieved carbon reduction resulting from its current policies, and there is much room for further technological co-operation, exchange in talents etc.,” stressed another speaker, Jiang Hongqi, Deputy Director General, Department of Ecology and Environment, Guangdong Province.

Shen Yuan, vice-president of the Zhejiang Geely Holding Group, and Li Pengcheng, vice-president of China Mengniu Dairy Company Ltd, cited examples of the climate mitigation measures adopted at their plants, such as the use of new materials by both their production team and vast network of supply chain partners.

California state officials expressed impressiveness with the advanced technology and green policies adopted in GBA. Yana Garcia, the Secretary of the California Environmental Protection Agency, listed energy storage and water recycling as potential areas for further partnership. She acknowledged the challenges involved in meeting California’ ambitious environmental goals, including the use of pure electric heavy-duty vehicles and a 71 % improvement in air quality. “The strong partnership that we have moved in is something we want to leverage very much,” she said, adding: “We are in the process of removing the nation’s largest dam in California, and we are facing very severe water supply challenge; the technology and innovation in the area of water recycling is something that we are interested in exploring.”

Chinese officials and other speakers from the business sector at the forum agreed with the importance of green finance in accelerating the transition to low-carbon economy. Resources are always vital for implementing and sustaining changes. Shen of Geely lauded carbon trading for laying a good foundation for fund raising.

Wong Chuen Fai, the Commissioner for Climate Change of the HKSAR’s Environment and Ecology Bureau, noted Hong Kong’s position as an international financial centre plays a key role in attracting and diverting resources into the various transition initiatives. On Hong Kong’s goal to achieve carbon neutrality in 2050, he cited three areas where collaborations are needed, namely technology (including the development of hydrogen vehicles), finance and capacity building. “We can collaborate in research and technology and apply the technology to help industries achieve better carbon performance,” he said. “I think it is important for us to join hands to do capacity building so that everyone can contribute their part in this carbon neutrality journey.”

As noted by others, regional collaborations can also benefit the world through the sharing of technology and effective measures.

Education is indispensable. Professor Cui Yi, the Founding Director of Stanford University’s Sustainability Accelerator, said at the forum that they were developing a curriculum on Scaling in Sustainability, while offering funding for faculty, students, postdocs and talents to identify policy and technology gaps, then develop projects that can produce scalable solutions.

Here HKU is also taking the lead in nurturing talents to meet the challenges in combating climate change, having launched the master’s programme in climate governance and risk management with the first intake for fall 2024.

An overwhelming response, about 1,000 applications were received for the programme, said Professor Gong Peng, Vice-President (Academic Development) and Founding Director of the Institute for Climate and Carbon Neutrality (ICCN), HKU. Also on offer are doctoral and post-doctoral research opportunities and executive training programme on climate leadership and corporate governance.

“We want to build a bridge for the Greater Bay Area for climate action and co-operation, starting from China and California on a sub-national scale, then expanding to China, US, Europe and the rest of the world,” said Professor Gong, adding: “We want to build a global talent and innovation hub in Hong Kong, to attract talents who can do impactful research and publish important works to train the next generation of climate leaders, and to serve as a platform for innovation and co-operation at scale.”

Hashtag: #HKU

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SHANGHAI TANG Unveils Its S/S24 Collection

Spring and Summer Extravaganza Blending Nature and Tradition


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 April 2024 – As the Year of the Dragon unfolds, SHANGHAI TANG proudly presents its highly anticipated 2024 Spring/Summer Collection. Embarking on a sartorial odyssey inspired by the eternal allure of nature’s splendour and the opulent imaginations of Eastern legacy, this season’s opus epitomizes a harmonious symphony of tradition and innovation. Each garment within this collection is a masterful testament to the brand’s unwavering dedication to intricate artistry and timeless elegance, weaving together a mesmerizing tale through its resplendent print motifs and impeccable attention to detail.

SHANGHAI TANG SS24 WOMEN'S COLLECTION

In commemoration of its 30th anniversary since inception in 1994, SHANGHAI TANG embarked on a transcendent journey, intertwining the realms of artistic prowess and Chinese cultural heritage with unprecedented finesse. Collaborative projects with multi-media artist Jacky Tsai and contemporary artist Long Di breathe new life into fashion and home products, elevating everyday experiences with a touch of artistic sophistication.

Under the overarching theme of embracing nature’s allure, the 2024 Spring/Summer Collection unveils a captivating array of apparel and home décor. From the graceful flow of wandering dragons to the delicate hollyhock blossoms, each design intricately weaves together tradition and innovation, offering a sensory journey through the changing seasons.

Cruising with the breeze, the women’s apparel resonates with the essence of spring, exuding grace and femininity. Classic design elements like the Chinese standing collar and the velvet five-button Tang suit are reimagined with three-dimensional embroidery and vibrant prints, evoking a sense of poetic beauty. Dragon-inspired motifs and calligraphic designs by artist Chen Shemin add a dynamic touch, celebrating the spirit of the dragon with unparalleled sophistication.

For men, the collection presents a fusion of fluid contours and luxurious fabrics, accentuating a refined and dignified demeanour. Dragon-inspired details weave effortlessly into traditional silhouettes, crafting a narrative of opulence that is distinctly emblematic of this era. Each garment reflects the craftsmanship and attention to detail synonymous with SHANGHAI TANG, inviting wearers to embrace a sense of cultural pride and elegance.

With the 2024 Spring/Summer Collection, SHANGHAI TANG continues to redefine the boundaries of fashion, art, and culture. By marrying heritage with contemporary Asian flair, the brand invites enthusiasts to embark on a journey of exploration, where tradition meets innovation, and artistry intertwines with everyday life.

Hashtag: #ShanghaiTang #ShanghaiTangHK #MakeLifeAParty



Wechat: 上海滩ShanghaiTang

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ABOUT SHANGHAI TANG

SHANGHAI TANG is Asian flair, evocative contrasts, timeless elegance, and joy de vivre.​

SHANGHAI TANG was born of the joy de vivre that our founder, David Tang KBE, celebrated with artists, celebrities, and royals to make life a party. Over three decades since, we have infused luxury fashion and lifestyle with Asian flair through a rebirth of cultural influences that have spanned millennia, the rediscovery of exquisite craftsmanship that has been honed for generations, and the celebration of contemporary art. ​

SHANGHAI TANG’s exquisite work has been defined through the years by the radiant elegance of Maggie Cheung, the celebrity sparkle of Nicole Kidman, the supermodel glamour of Liu Wen, the youthful handsomeness of Sean Xiao, the delicate dignity of Gong Li, and the love of many other devoted fans. ​

Generali Hong Kong Triumphs with Six Wins at the “10Life 5-Star Insurance Awards 2024”


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 April 2024 – Generali Hong Kong has secured six prestigious accolades at the “10Life 5-Star Insurance Awards 2024”. The awards, which serve as a benchmark of quality within the insurance industry, saw Generali Hong Kong receiving the highest honor in the following categories:

  • 5-Star QDAP Savings
  • 5-Star QDAP Retirement
  • 5-Star Whole Life Critical Illness Insurance
  • 5-Star Term Critical Illness Insurance
  • 5-Star Savings Insurance Legacy
  • 5-Star Savings Insurance Retirement

Generali Hong Kong has won six accolades at the 10Life 5-Star Insurance Award 2024.

Organized by 10Life, the largest insurance comparison platform in Hong Kong, the “10Life 5-Star Insurance Award 2024” is one of the most representative awards in the industry. Their actuaries rate insurance products based on factors that matter the most to the consumers. 10Life compares over 1,500 insurance products from over 50 insurers in the market with the top-rated products under each category awarded a 5-Star rating.

Generali Hong Kong has won six accolades at the 10Life 5-Star Insurance Award 2024.
Generali Hong Kong has won six accolades at the 10Life 5-Star Insurance Award 2024.




Hashtag: #GeneraliHongKong

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