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Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise partners with PT World Infinite Network to accelerate market growth in Indonesia


JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 May 2025 – Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise a leading provider of secure networking and communication solutions enabling organizations and industries to accelerate their operational efficiencies and competitiveness, announced today a strategic partnership with PT World Infinite Network (PT WIN). ALE has appointed PT WIN as Value-Added Distributor (VAD) to expand its reach across key industry verticals and strengthen its market presence in Indonesia, one of the largest and fastest-growing economies in Southeast Asia (SEA).

This partnership leverages PT WIN’s decade-long industry experience, customer-focused approach, and technical expertise to deliver ALE solutions across five strategic sectors undergoing significant digital transformation in Indonesia: government, education, public sector, banking & finance and healthcare. PT WIN will distribute ALE’s portfolio of networking and communications solutions, as well as their comprehensive range of everything-as-a-service offerings that provide businesses with flexible, scalable, and on-demand services.

“Indonesia represents one of SEA’s most dynamic technology markets, and partnering with PT WIN positions us to address its unique demands with precision,” said Novse Hardiman, Country Manager for Indonesia, Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise. “I am confident that together with PT WIN, ALE’s solutions will be well received by both new and existing customers and partners. Their decade of industry experience and strong presence across key growth sectors aligns with our commitment to delivering tailored solutions that drive digital transformation.”

“With our experience in the IT industry and our focus on the requirements of our customers and partners, ALE’s solutions are well suited to the needs of the Indonesian market, be it networking, communications or managed services solutions. ALE has been in the industry for more than 100 years. Their commitment gives us great confidence to grow our business throughout Indonesia,” said Pius Riyanto, Director of PT World Infinite Network.
Hashtag: #ALE

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

About Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise

Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise provides secure networking and communication solutions which enable organizations and industries to accelerate their operational efficiencies and competitiveness. In the Cloud. On Premises. Hybrid.

All solutions have built-in security, limited environmental impact and are fully compliant with data protection requirements of organizations and individuals at a national sovereignty and international industry level.

Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise focus on three pillars: Environment Sustainability, Social Responsibility, and Corporate Governance, providing technology solutions for the good of the environment, people, and business.

Over 100 years of innovation have made the company a trusted advisor to more than a million customers across the world.

With headquarters in France and 3,400 business partners worldwide, Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise achieves an effective global reach with a local focus.

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About PT World Infinite Network

PT World Infinite Network is an Information Technology company serving IT needs for business in Indonesia for more than a decade. With more than 10 years of experience, PT World Infinite Network has an advantage in terms of IT Solutions and Delivery.

Discovery Premieres New Documentary

Taiwan Revealed: AI Technology Island

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 May 2025 – Discovery Channel announces the premiere of Taiwan Revealed: AI Technology Island, in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, ROC (Taiwan). This brand-new documentary, which offers an insight into Taiwan’s advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductor technologies, premieres on the Discovery Channel on Thursday, May 22, at 7:10 p.m. SGT, and on Discovery Asia on Sunday, May 25, at 9 p.m. SGT.

Timed to coincide with the lead-up to Computex Taipei, one of the world’s largest and most influential technology trade shows, Taiwan Revealed: AI Technology Island takes viewers inside Taiwan’s thriving AI ecosystem, from chip design to cutting-edge manufacturing processes and seamless software system integration. The documentary showcases Taiwan’s role in powering global AI data centres and introduces some of the industry’s key players driving innovation and transformation.

Semiconductors are the backbone of the artificial intelligence revolution and Taiwan manufactures over 90% of the world’s most advanced semiconductors today. In the early 2000s, Taiwan’s leading chipmaker made a groundbreaking leap by developing immersion lithography.

As the demand for advanced chips grows alongside the rapid expansion of AI, the documentary takes a look at how innovators in Taiwan are exploring new possibilities and collaborating with partners across the region to address some of humanity’s most pressing challenges, from fighting climate change to advancing healthcare solutions, as well as highlighting how AI-powered anomaly detection is optimizing solar panel performance, supporting Taiwan’s green energy goals. It also features the partnership between Taiwan and Palau, where both sides collaborate and integrate advanced medical technologies and artificial intelligence, enhancing access to real-time, cost-effective healthcare and bridging critical gaps in medical services. Viewers will also have a preview of how a new generation of engineers in the Czech Republic can learn from Taiwan experts on designing semiconductors, and follow students who have the rare opportunity to see their designs come to life at Taiwan’s state-of-the-art foundries, where the future of technology is made.

Note to editors:

  • Watch highlights here
  • Download stills here

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

About Discovery Channel 

Across every platform, Discovery Channel is dedicated to connecting audiences who have a passion for adventure and crave a connection to the world around them. Popular series including Deadliest Catch, Expedition Unknown, Mystery at Blind Frog Ranch and Gold Rush, along with Shark Week, the annual tentpole programming event, serve as trusted portals that transport viewers directly into thrilling, real, high stakes moments. Through smart, authentic characters whose stories inform and inspire, Discovery celebrates the men and women who will stop at nothing to explore new spaces and achieve their dreams. For more information, please visit www.discovery.com

LiveSpo® NAVAX Nasal-Spray Probiotics: A New Approach in Supporting the Treatment of Rhinosinusitis and Otitis Media


HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 May 2025 – LiveSpo® NAVAX – a nasal-spray probiotic product developed by Vietnamese scientists – has recently been published in the high-ranking international scientific journal Scientific Reports-Nature, recognizing its effectiveness in supporting the treatment of rhinosinusitis and otitis media in children. This marks the third consecutive study on the product published in a prestigious international scientific platform, reinforcing a promising new direction in non-antibiotic respiratory care.

Photo (3)

The findings from the clinical study, conducted Thai Binh University of Medicine and Pharmacy in collaboration with other institutions, was published on January 27, 2025, in Scientific Reports-Nature, a renowned journal under the Nature Portfolio (UK). The results demonstrated significant effectiveness in children within just 3–7 days of use. Additionally, data also showed positive improvements in adults, highlighting the product’s potential for broader application in the future.

The study was carried out from November 2023 to December 2024 with the participation of 126 patients, including both children and adults. Among children with acute rhinosinusitis and perforated acute otitis media, the treatment results were particularly notable: after 3 days of using LiveSpo® NAVAX, nasal congestion decreased by 68%, twice as much as the saline group. After 7 days, 97% of the children had no more nasal discharge, and 100% had no more ear discharge. The concentration of pathogenic bacteria Streptococcus pneumoniae in nasal and ear secretions dropped more than 1,200 times. Importantly, no side effects were recorded during the entire trial – even in children with weakened immune systems.

In the adult group with acute sinusitis, symptoms such as nasal congestion, facial pain, and purulent discharge improved significantly after 3 days of use – with reductions of 53%, 78%, and 61%, respectively. After 7 days, 91% of patients no longer experienced nasal discharge. Laboratory results showed a substantial reduction in pathogenic bacteria: Streptococcus pneumoniae decreased over 380-fold and Haemophilus influenzae decreased over 49,000-fold compared to the Control group receiving physiological saline

According to the research team, the effectiveness of LiveSpo® NAVAX origins from its ability to modulate local inflammatory responses and enhance mucosal immunity through the competitive biological mechanism of spore-forming Bacillus probiotics. Inflammatory markers such as IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α significantly decreased, while levels of IgA – a key protective antibody at the mucosal surface – increased, contributing to the restoration of the nose and ear’s natural defense barrier.

This study not only adds to the growing body of scientific evidence supporting LiveSpo® NAVAX’s efficacy in respiratory care but also affirms Vietnam’s biomedical research capabilities on the international scientific map. It paves the way for a safe, sustainable respiratory treatment alternative that reduces reliance on antibiotics – especially for vulnerable groups like children.

Dr. Nguyen Hoa Anh, Chairman and Founder of LiveSpo Pharma, shared:
“At LiveSpo, we prioritize the research and development of internationally standardized products, combining modern medicine with advanced probiotic technology to deliver safe and effective health solutions for the community – all with a vision of A Future Without Antibiotics.”

References:
Khieu TH, Le DP, Nguyen BT, Ngo BT, Chu HT, Truong DM, Nguyen HM, Nguyen AH, Pham TD, Van Nguyen AT. Alleviating symptoms of paediatric acute rhinosinusitis and acute otitis media with otorrhea using nasal-spraying Bacillus probiotics: a randomized controlled trial. Sci Rep. 2025 Jan 27;15(1):3410. doi: 10.1038/s41598-025-87372-2. PMID: 39870748; PMCID: PMC11772584.
Hashtag: #LiveSpo

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

About LiveSpo Pharma

LiveSpo is an R&D, manufacturing, and distribution brand of Clinically Proven Medical Probiotics, leading in breakthrough technology, rapid effectiveness, and convenience, aiming for “A Future Without Antibiotics”.

Our vision: In 2027, LiveSpo will have 1.5 million consumers who use Spore probiotics for digestive and respiratory health instead of antibiotics, with outstanding benefits and customer experiences. Established since 2010 by Dr. Nguyen Hoa Anh (Dr. ANH) and his colleagues, LiveSpo has remained steadfast in its belief that Live Probiotic Spores – Spobiotic – will pave the way to a future without antibiotics for everyone.

Hotline: 1800.088808

Website:

Like Riding Through a Masterpiece: Over 2,000 Cyclists Chase Their Dreams in Changping!


BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 May 2025 – On May 18, the final race day of the 2025 China Road Cycling League (Beijing Changping) and the Changping International Road Cycling Challenge took place. More than 2,000 professional cyclists and enthusiasts gathered in Changping to compete in the men’s, women’s, and mass-participation individual races along a scenic cycling route that seemed like a living painting.

On May 18, the final race day of the 2025 China Road Cycling League (Beijing Changping) and the Changping International Road Cycling Challenge took place.
On May 18, the final race day of the 2025 China Road Cycling League (Beijing Changping) and the Changping International Road Cycling Challenge took place.

As a pioneering event that blends a national-level cycling league with locally inspired races, this successful gathering marks a milestone in Changping’s pursuit of becoming the “Beijing Cycling Demonstration Zone.” Jointly hosted by the Chinese Cycling Association and the Changping District People’s Government, with support from the Changping District Sports Bureau, the event aims to use competitive sports as a bridge to connect the district’s ecological landscapes and cultural heritage, setting a new benchmark for the integrated development of “sports + cultural tourism.”

At 8:30 a.m., the sound of a whistle signaled the official start of the race. Participants in each category dashed from the starting line, chasing the wind and their dreams amid Changping’s natural beauty, reveling in the joy of sport. Crowds lined the route, cheering enthusiastically for the riders and creating a vibrant, electric atmosphere.

The day’s route extended up to 181.1 kilometers. Riders in the men’s, women’s, and amateur races set off from the Nanshao Cultural Plaza in Changping and battled along a course that spanned eight towns and subdistricts. The route passed through key roads such as Chaoxin Road, East Reservoir Road, Chichang Road, Huaichang Road, Wangbai Road, and Taoxia Road, linking riverside scenery, tree-lined tunnels, terraced hillsides adorned with wildflowers, and fragrant orchards. It was hailed as a “mobile exhibition gallery” of Changping’s all-encompassing cultural and tourism experience. While cyclists enjoyed the sweeping views of Changping’s natural beauty at full speed, spectators along the route immersed themselves in the region’s cultural charm through themed tourism activities.

According to reports, the event lasted four days starting from May 15. In the earlier stages, the men’s and women’s individual time trials, as well as the mixed team time trial, took place in Liucun Town. The race course, designed to wind through the mountainous terrain of Liucun, started at Liucun Primary School and passed by the shimmering waters of Wangjiayuan Reservoir, the ancient charm of Baiyangcheng Village, and the lush landscapes of the “Hundred-Mile Corridor.” As the cyclists raced through these areas, they were treated to a poetic panorama of the countryside on the outskirts of Beijing.

The urban circuit elimination race for amateur riders was set along the “Round Ming Tombs Reservoir” route. This course blended the lush mountains of the Yanshan range, the sparkling waters of the reservoir, and the profound cultural heritage of the Ming Tombs. It offered participants an immersive experience of Changping’s unique identity as a place of “mountains, waters, city, and tombs.”

On May 18, the final race day of the 2025 China Road Cycling League (Beijing Changping) and the Changping International Road Cycling Challenge took place.
On May 18, the final race day of the 2025 China Road Cycling League (Beijing Changping) and the Changping International Road Cycling Challenge took place.

The cycling race served not only as a platform for cyclist competition, but also as a key branding event to boost the integration of culture, tourism, and sports in the Changping region. With more than 3,000 participants in total, the event marked a major initiative in Changping’s efforts to establish itself as a “cycling-friendly city.” It also served as a vivid example of integrated development across sectors such as culture, tourism, agriculture, business, and sports.

With 48.7% of its territory covered in forest and over 60% designated as mountainous, Changping offers an ideal terrain for cycling events. In recent years, the district has proposed a strategic goal of becoming a “Beijing Cycling Demonstration Zone,” integrating road accessibility, facility friendliness, industry support, cultural integration, and service excellence into the urban development blueprint.

Leveraging its outstanding geographical resources, Changping has developed a “one-horizontal and four-vertical” cycling route network. It has introduced routes such as the Ming Tombs Reservoir loop and the “Green Oxygen Art Tour of Changping,” and established 141 officially designated cycling service stations. High-level events like the Western Loop Cycling Race have also been successfully held, significantly driving the integrated development of culture, tourism, agriculture, commerce, and sports. The cycling economy in the region is now thriving with new vitality.

As a cycling event that merges a national-level league with regional specialty races, the successful hosting of this event marks a significant step forward in Changping’s journey toward becoming a “Beijing Cycling Demonstration Zone.” In the future, Changping will continue to integrate its ecological, cultural, and industrial resources. Using the demonstration zone as a strategic platform, the district will harness the event’s ability to attract traffic and stimulate consumption, transforming audience engagement into economic momentum. This will inject fresh energy into Beijing’s—and the nation’s—culture-tourism-sports economy, helping the “wheels” of integrated development roll even farther.

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

Impact Fusion’s Scientific Team Proposes Solution to the New World Screwworm Fly Impending Crisis


Napoleonville, Louisiana – Newsfile Corp. – 19 May 2025 – Impact Fusion (OTC Pink: IFUS) As widely reported in the media and noted by concerned lawmakers, the USA is facing a serious infestation of the New World Screwworm Fly. This infestation could wreak havoc on the American beef cattle and dairy industries, as well as impact other mammals. To that end, Agriculture Secretary Betty Rollins has declared an emergency. She has closed the border to beef exports from Mexico.

Six of the nation’s lawmakers, including Senators Lujan (D-NM), Cronyn (R-TX), Heinrich (D-NM), Cruz (R-TX), Hyde-Smith (R-MS), and Gonzales (R-TX) have joined together in a bi-partisan effort to address this problem.

https://www.heinrich.senate.gov/newsroom/press-releases/heinrich-lujan-colleagues-introduce-bipartisan-bill-to-combat-devastating-screwworm-outbreak

The company is reaching out to each of the lawmakers sponsoring this legislation in an attempt to alert them to an all-natural product that is environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and produced IN AMERICA. It is contacting them by email and phone. As previously reported, the Schmidt’s of Deer Run Ranch in Jefferson, TX (one of IFUS’s rancher-owned test ranches) met with Senator Cruz last month to discuss the Farm Bill. Robert Schmidt was quoted by a member of the U.S. Congress after stating, “No cattle. No food.” Impact Fusion is endeavoring to inform the lawmakers at the highest level that the solution is already in hand, invented and produced in the USA and ready to be delivered.

“I recently watched two very topical videos produced by Rebecca and Josh Tickell entitled ‘Common Ground and Kiss the Ground’,” said Marc Walther CEO. “These videos can be found on Amazon Prime Video. What I learned was that with Global Climate Change, an ever-present condition, temperature extremes are demonstrating an annual average rise in temperature. Furthermore, wind and ocean currents are shifting in a manner that indicates the problem is not going to go away any time soon, nor will it be solved by conventional techniques.”

Our IFUS Scientific team is reaching out to the worldwide scientific community comprised of scientists in various fields of expertise. These efforts have uncovered substantial evidence that the ingredients from which SGP+™ is formulated can have a dramatic effect on preventing the screwworm fly from (1) being attracted to beef and dairy cattle, (2) wanting to bite the cow, (3) discouraging the fly to lay her eggs into the cow, and (4) preventing the larvae from becoming a mature fly. This information is being shared with ScrewWorm Fly researchers at Texas A&M by the company’s ranchers at Deer Run Ranch. The Schmidts’ have been participating in a Manure Study sponsored by the U.S.D.A. The results of analyzing and evaluating manure pats from the Deer Run Ranch herd has led to broader and greater curiosity by the Texas A&M Team who are exploring the positive impact of SGP+™ on the New World ScrewWorm Fly crisis.

“Backed by ever-emerging and substantive scientific evidence, it is my considered opinion, that IFUS is in the right place at the right time and that we are able to meet this challenge head on,” stated Marc Walther. “Furthermore, we are providing integrated and multi-faceted solutions to the beef and dairy industries that have a direct impact on overall Herd Performance in an environmentally-friendly manner through a game-changing cost-effective solution.” The company will continue to update its shareholders as appropriate.

Back to Work!

For our customers of both Intact Digest and Intact Endurance, you may now send your testimonials to: mwalther@impactfusionintl.com. We can also be reached at 1-800-775-4130 seven days a week.

About Impact Fusion International Inc.
Impact Fusion International, Inc. is in the business of marketing products in the “Health and Wellness” sector of all international markets. It is the company’s mission to invent, develop and market these proprietary products worldwide for the health and well-being of humans and animals.

The information contained in this release includes some statement that are not purely historical and that are “forward-looking statements.” Such forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements regarding our and their management’s expectations, hopes, beliefs, intentions or strategies regarding the future, including our financial condition, results of operations. In addition, any statements that refer to projections, forecasts or other characterizations of future events or circumstances, including any underlying assumptions, are forward-looking statements. The words “anticipates,” “believes,” “continue,” “could,” “estimates,” “expects,” “intends,” “may,” “might,” “plans,” “possible,” “potential,” “predicts,” “projects,” “seeks,” “should,” “would” and similar expressions, or the negatives of such terms, may identify forward-looking statements, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking. The forward-looking statements contained in this release are based on current expectations and beliefs concerning future developments and the potential effects on the parties and the corporate and administrative transactions. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause our actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements and represent our management’s beliefs and assumptions only as of the date hereof. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to update these forward-looking statements, even if new information becomes available in the future.

Contact:
Impact Fusion International Inc.
204 Highway 1011
Napoleonville LA 70390
1-800-775-4130
Email: mwalther@impactfusionintl.com
https://www.impactfusionbrands.com/brands

Updates can be found at the official Impact Fusion Twitter account @impactfusionI

#Screwworm Fly #India #Sumul #Intact Digest #Intact Endurance #Germany #legislation #bagasse #drought #Holy Grail #SUAREC #Louisiana #green house gases #methane gas #cattle #dairy #floods #wildfires #scientific studies #American Sugar League #AgriGlow Biotech #Waygu Beef #hay replacement #Sumul,India trials #Black Farmers National Association #Supreme AG™ #SGP+™ #Oklahoma #test ranch #testimonials

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

About Impact Fusion International Inc.

Main sponsor Schüco thrilled by sporting success — Schüco dresses Germany’s tallest statue in a football jersey of Arminia Bielefeld

BIELEFELD, GERMANY – Newsaktuell – 19 May 2025 – Schüco, the specialist in windows, doors and façades, has kitted out the tallest statue in Germany in the football jersey of DSC Arminia Bielefeld. It is the long-time sponsor’s way of giving a gift to all the fans upon the team reaching the final of the German Cup. In fact, Arminia Bielefeld has reached the final of the German Cup for the first time in the club’s 120-year history – and has done so as a third division team!

(Photographer: Stefan Brückner, Usage rights: Schüco International KG) Measuring 53.46 metres in height, including its pedestal, Hermann's Monument was completed in 1875 and ever since has risen high above the Teutoburg Forest. The figure of Hermann himself measures 26.57 metres up to the point of the sword, making it the tallest statue in Germany today.
(Photographer: Stefan Brückner, Usage rights: Schüco International KG) Measuring 53.46 metres in height, including its pedestal, Hermann’s Monument was completed in 1875 and ever since has risen high above the Teutoburg Forest. The figure of Hermann himself measures 26.57 metres up to the point of the sword, making it the tallest statue in Germany today.

After the semi-final between Arminia Bielefeld and Bayer Leverkusen gained international attention, an AI-generated image went viral showing Hermann’s Monument (Hermannsdenkmal), the tallest statue in Germany, wearing an Arminia Bielefeld football jersey. Arminia Bielefeld had just defeated Bayer Leverkusen, the reigning Bundesliga champions and German Cup holders. A genuine football sensation!

Since special performances deserve special recognition, Schüco – the main sponsor of Arminia Bielefeld – quickly came up with the idea of making the AI image a reality. After all, the football club was named after the historical figure of Arminius, in whose memory Hermann’s Monument was built. It was exactly 44 days after the semi-final that the plan came to fruition. Some 130 m2 of flag fabric was sewn together to make the football shirt, which is 9 metres long and 7.2 metres wide.

On 24 May, DSC Arminia Bielefeld take on VfB Stuttgart from the Bundesliga at the Olympic Stadium in Berlin. “Hermann” will be the twelfth man behind the team as the underdogs look to triumph in the final.

More Information, Pictures and Videos under: https://www.schueco.com/de-en/company/press/schueco-arminia

Hashtag: #Schüco

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

Thai SELECT Royal Gala Night Elevates Thai Cuisine on the Global Stage with “The Five Spirits of Thai Taste”

An Extraordinary Gala Dinner Celebrates the Refinement of Thai Flavors and the International Prestige of Thai SELECT Certification


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 May 2025 – The Department of International Trade Promotion (DITP), Ministry of Commerce, will host the Thai SELECT Royal Gala Night on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel, Bangkok. Presided over by Her Royal Highness Princess Ubolratana Rajakanya Sirivadhana Barnavadi, the event seeks to elevate the global stature of Thai cuisine and the Thai SELECT certification. Guests will experience a remarkable Thai culinary showcase themed “THE FIVE SPIRITS OF THAI TASTE”, celebrating the distinctive refinement of Thai flavors through an extraordinary gala dinner.

KV Thai Select ROYAL GALA NIGHT 2025-01

This prestigious occasion underscores Thailand’s commitment to promoting Thai SELECT, a mark of excellence that certifies the authenticity and quality of Thai cuisine. It applies to both restaurants serving traditional dishes and ready-to-eat Thai products made with genuine ingredients and time-honored techniques. The Thai SELECT seal serves as a powerful emblem of Thailand’s soft power, enhancing the global reputation of its culinary heritage.

In 2025, the Ministry of Commerce has taken bold strides to amplify the visibility of Thai SELECT, in alignment with the national strategy to harness cultural influence as a driver of economic growth. A newly introduced rating system—the Orchid Star of Honor—categorizes certified establishments into four tiers: Thai SELECT Three Stars, Two Stars, One Star, and Thai SELECT Casual.

At the gala, guests will be immersed in “THE FIVE SPIRITS OF THAI TASTE”, representing the five essential dimensions of Thai cuisine: sour, sweet, creamy, salty, and spicy. Curated by acclaimed chefs from five celebrated Thai SELECT restaurants, each course is a culinary expression of one spirit, offering a journey through the vibrant soul of Thai gastronomy. The experience includes:

· The Awakening Spirit (sour) by BLUE ELEPHANT

· The Grounded Spirit (salty) by AMDANG TYPHOON GROUP

· The Fiery Spirit (spicy) by R-HAAN

· The Soulful Spirit (creamy) by Royal Osha

· The Nostalgic Spirit (sweet) by The Artisans Ayutthaya

Adding to the evening’s distinction is a special appearance by Ethan Bernath, a prominent American chef, author, and digital food creator. He will share his impressions of Thai cuisine and engage with leading Thai chefs in a dialogue that explores the connection between flavor, well-being, and the Thai way of life.

The Thai SELECT Royal Gala Night represents a pivotal moment in advancing the international prestige of Thai cuisine. By reinforcing the excellence embodied in Thai SELECT, the event opens new avenues for global expansion of Thai food businesses—further propelling economic growth through Thailand’s cultural influence.
Hashtag: #ThaiSELECT

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

“Game, Set, Smash!” New Pickleball Craze Hits Vientiane

Pickleball has been rapidly gaining popularity in Vientiane since its arrival in January 2024. (Photo credit: MITS Laos)

A rhythmic “pop-pop-pop” sound is beginning to echo across sports courts. Pickleballs, a fast-growing sport that combines elements of tennis, badminton, and table tennis, is slowly making its way into the heart of the small but passionate community in Vientiane Capital.

The sport was invented in 1965 in the United States but has only recently gained significant popularity. In countries like the US, Canada, Australia, and several parts of Asia, pickleball is now a staple in local parks and community centers.

Global Trend Reaches Laos

This global sensation arrived in Laos in January 2024 through the vision of brothers Alan and Chiton Vuong, who formally introduced pickleball to local communities. Their mission was straightforward yet impactful: diversify Laos’ sporting landscape while creating new opportunities for active, healthy lifestyles.

Chiton Vuong (left) and Alan Vuong (right)

“This sport is still new to the Lao community, and that’s a great thing,” explained Alan Vuong. “It means everyone starts at the same point. We welcome everyone to come play. Just give it ten minutes, get used to the environment, and you’ll be playing.”

Alan, an Australian national directing Melbourne International Training Systems (MITS) in Laos, brings extensive sports development experience to the country and currently serves as the Lao National Tennis Coach.

“I am passionate about developing athletes in Asia, where I believe there is untapped talent that needs guidance and mentorship to reach the international stage. I also have a strong vision to strengthen grassroots sports by providing equal opportunities for everyone to realize their potential and lead healthy, active lives.”

“When you make yourself proud, you make your country proud. You inspire the people around you,” he added.

He made headlines by coaching a Lao men’s tennis player to a bronze medal at the Southeast Asian (SEA) Games in 2021 in Vietnam’s Hanoi and the 2023 in Cambodia’s Phnom Penh.

Alan Vuong, MITS Laos Director and Lao National Tennis Coach.

From Trial to Trend: Growing a Pickleball Community

Pickleball is gaining ground in Vientiane, with a court now open at Le Society Sports Lounge & Cafe in the Sisattanak district. The Vientiane Vipers Pickleball Club was recently formed to help local players compete at the regional level and support the sport’s growth in Laos.

A key driver of this momentum is the MITS Laos Social Pickleball Program. What started as a once-a-week session has grown into four weekly play days: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday. Daily play is expected soon.

Alan, one of the organizers, says the sense of community has been just as important as the sport itself. 

“The support from the community has been amazing. We started with just the sport, but now it’s become a group of friends, of people connecting and building relationships. The feedback from everyone, locals and visitors, has been so positive.”

Pickleball may still be new to Laos, but it’s quickly building a strong and connected following.

A Sport for Everyone

People playing pickleball at the Le Society Sports Lounge & Cafe. (Photo credit: MITS Laos)

Pickleball is a fun, easy-to-learn sport that’s suitable for all ages and skill levels. With just a few minutes of practice, anyone can start playing, according to Alan.

“Our main reason for introducing pickleball to Laos is to give something fresh and fun to the community,” he said. “We always remember that this sport is about having fun. It’s about bringing people together, playing with friends and family, building connections, and just enjoying the moment.”

Alan also emphasized that pickleball isn’t only for dedicated athletes. 

“It’s not a serious sport unless you want it to be. You can just relax, have fun, and enjoy yourself. If you do want to take it to the next level, that’s totally up to you,” he said.

In countries like Thailand, Japan, and Singapore, Pickleball has also found firm footing, especially among youth and retirees.

Official Recognition and Support

Daovone Phachanthavong, President of the Lao Tennis Federation (LTF), also recognized pickleball’s potential to boost youth participation in sports.

Daovone Phachanthavong, Lao Tennis Federation President (left), and Alan Voung, MITS Laos Director and Lao National Tennis Coach (right)

“At the Lao Tennis Federation, we are still in the early stages of exploring how Pickleball can complement our existing programs,” he said. “We see Pickleball as a sport that is easy to learn, fun, and a good way to encourage young people to stay active.”

Although Pickleball is still in its early phase in Laos, Daovone shared that its introduction by MITS Laos has shown promise:

“In Vientiane, MITS Laos has introduced a social Pickleball program that brings together a variety of players of all ages, skill levels, and sports backgrounds. The feedback has been very positive. It may not be a large-scale success yet, but it’s a step forward.”

Pickleball and Tennis: Competition or Collaboration?

Rather than viewing Pickleball as a rival to tennis, the LTF sees it as a complementary sport. Daovone notes that promoting alternative sports can help diversify Laos’ athletic development and create more accessible entry points for people who may not feel confident taking up traditional sports.

He also highlights that while major tournaments are still far off, Laos is gradually building a foundation for international collaboration:

“We don’t yet have major international Pickleball tournaments in Laos, but some clubs are organizing small competitions. These first steps are important as we learn and grow together.”

He added that exposure to regional opportunities is critical for Lao athletes:

“Any chance to compete or train outside of Laos is very valuable. It helps athletes gain experience, build confidence, and understand what it takes to improve. With support from partners like MITS Laos and Lunar Pickleball, we hope to slowly expand the pathways for Lao athletes to gain more exposure and develop their potential.”

Looking Ahead

Alan and his team have already introduced pickleball to schools, universities, and public courts throughout Vientiane. Their vision extends further: “We’re now reaching out to high schools, both private and public schools, the National University of Laos, and planning to expand to other provinces like Luang Prabang, Savannakhet, and Champasack.”

MITS Laos presenting Pickleball at the National University of Laos. 08 May 2025. (Photo credit: Faculty of Sport Science and Physical Education)

Even though Alan is originally from Australia, he feels deeply connected to Laos through his work. “I’m not Lao, but I wear the Lao flag nearly every day. As the national tennis coach, I’ve had the opportunity to take Lao athletes overseas to compete. I coach nearly all of the national tennis players in Laos. I want to see pickleball grow in the same way. That’s my goal.”

Both Alan and Daovone share a vision for pickleball’s growth that mirrors tennis development in the country. Their roadmap includes establishing a dedicated pickleball federation and securing crucial sponsorships to fuel the sport’s expansion across Laos.

Pickleball’s Global Boom

Pickleball stands as one of the fastest-growing sports worldwide, according to the Sports and Fitness Industry Association (SFIA). The game’s appeal lies in its accessibility, appealing to children, senior citizens, or seasoned athletes, offering a fun and social way to stay active.

As the sport grows, international pickleball communities have formed, professional leagues have emerged, and global tournaments are now attracting thousands of spectators and players.