Home Blog Page 1961

Inside “Beautiful Nightmare”: When BXG Turned Halloween into a Luxury Fantasy with VIP EXTRA

Where beauty met the forbidden, and the night remembered every name.

  • The Night That Redefined Halloween

MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 November 2025 – Halloween in Asia had never looked this extraordinary. On October 30, 2025, BXG (Beauty Express Group), the creative powerhouse behind leading beauty brands including Telosin, A80 Paris, The Mineral Boutique, Apeiro, and 24 Auro, unveiled “Beautiful Nightmare”, an electrifying Halloween experience brought to life through its flagship luxury platform, VIP EXTRA.

Image 1

It wasn’t just a celebration; it was the most extreme Halloween event in Asia, where beauty met desire and every moment shimmered with fearless creativity.

More than 500 very lucky guests from Hong Kong, Singapore, the Philippines, China, Thailand, Indonesia and Europe gathered in Macau to witness a night of surreal glamour and indulgence. Among them were over 100 celebrities, influencers, and tastemakers, all part of a spectacle that redefined what luxury nightlife could be.

Image 2

The Prelude: Beauty Before the Darkness

The evening began inside a lavish W Hotel Macau suite, transformed into a high-glamour pre-party sanctuary.DJ Ornusa Cadness delivered a captivating set for over 100 top KOLs and influencers gathered for a night of anticipation and transformation.

Here, VIP EXTRA guests indulged in exclusive glow-up experiences, with A80 Paris offering bespoke hair styling, and Telosin, Apeiro, and The Mineral Boutique (TMB) delivering radiant skincare and beauty rituals. Each guest received personalized beauty gifts, turning preparation into performance, a moment of transformation before stepping into the night’s seductive chaos.

image 3

The Descent: A Dream in the Dark

As the clock struck nine, the energy shifted. Guests descended to MOP, Macau’s hottest club, reborn as a darkly decadent world where high fashion collided with the surreal.

The bassline pulsed through mirrored walls; crystal glasses clinked as sequined silhouettes shimmered beneath crimson light. Champagne flowed like water, while a curated selection of gourmet dishes from renowned chefs kept guests indulged throughout the night. The venue itself became an immersive fantasy — adorned with haunting Halloween décor, glowing LED installations, and bursts of pyrotechnics that lit the room in flashes of gold and scarlet.

Icons from across Asia, including Gaile Lok, Alex Lam, Angie Ng, Utah Lee, Terra Yeung, Tom Price, Vivian Siu, Inky Leong, and many more, filled the space with untamed energy and couture expression.

An international lineup of music DJ providers — LordBS, Ruby, Samir, and Lilium — powered the night with electrifying beats that kept the crowd dancing until dawn. Their soundscapes transformed MOP into a world of rhythm, mystery, and movement.

It was a world where beauty turned wild, a living dream curated through BXG’s unmatched creative direction.

Image 4

Behind the Magic

Curated and produced by BXG, “Beautiful Nightmare” embodied the group’s vision of merging beauty innovation, cultural storytelling, and immersive brand experience. Through VIP EXTRA, BXG continues to set the benchmark for luxury engagement, where members are not just guests but protagonists in an evolving narrative of style.

“It was more than a party. It was an experience that blended creativity, style, and beauty in the most unexpected way,” said Kimmy Lee, Chief Commercial Officer at BXG. “From the W Hotel suite to the MOP dance floor, every moment embodied the VIP EXTRA spirit, bold, beautiful, and unforgettable.”

For BXG, “Beautiful Nightmare” was more than spectacle. It was the embodiment of its belief that beauty becomes unforgettable when it dares to provoke.

Image 5

The Afterglow

With over 150,000 active members across China, Hong Kong, Macau, and beyond, VIP EXTRA, powered by BXG, continues to set new benchmarks for luxury engagement in Asia.

“Beautiful Nightmare” became more than an event; it became a story, a fearless celebration of artistry, glamour, and imagination that left Macau glowing long after the last song ended.

Every VVIP left calling it “the best Halloween party ever”, a night that transformed the meaning of beauty and boldness in the region. Some nights don’t end; they transform

www.vipextra.com
https://www.instagram.com/vipextra_club/?hl=en

www.bexgrp.com

https://www.instagram.com/beautyexpressgroup/?hl=en

Hashtag: #BXGGroup #VIPEXTRA

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

TCT 2025 | Robot-Assisted PCI Enters a New Era: Results of the PANVIS STAR Multicenter Randomized Controlled Trial

SHANGHAI, Nov. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 37th Annual Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics (TCT2025) symposium was held grandly in San Francisco, USA, attracting widespread attention from the global cardiovascular community. On the morning of October 28th (local time), during the “Innovation Session: Robotics and AI-Enhanced Interventions,” Dr. Wang Rui, representing the team of Academician Ge Junbo from Zhongshan Hospital Affiliated to Fudan University, presented to the world for the first time the safety and efficacy data from the multicenter randomized controlled trial of China’s independently developed PANVIS STAR Vascular Interventional Surgery Control System. The results were encouraging ——in the field of Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI), the introduction of robotic technology is gradually transforming traditional surgical paradigms.

PANVIS STAR Trial Data Shows Safety and Efficacy in PCI
PANVIS STAR Trial Data Shows Safety and Efficacy in PCI

I. Research Background: Why Robot-Assisted PCI?

In traditional PCI procedures, vascular interventional physicians must wear heavy lead aprons and operate for extended periods under X-ray , facing multiple occupational risks such as an increased incidence of orthopedic and ophthalmic diseases. With the advancement of precision medicine and telemedicine, robot-assisted PCI has become a key pathway to address these challenges. However, most current interventional robots rely on joystick control, making it difficult to simulate physicians’ techniques and operating habits. Additionally, limited compatible instruments restrict their widespread clinical adoption. The emergence of the PANVIS STAR system aims to break through this bottleneck.

II. PANVIS STAR System: Design Innovations and Functional Highlights

Independently developed by Shenzhen Institute of Advanced Biomedical Robot Co., Ltd. (abrobo) , the PANVIS STAR system boasts the following outstanding features:

  • Equipped with a globally unique PANVIS COF (Catheter On Finger) intuitive operating system: The controller mimics manual operation, aligning better with physicians’ traditional operating habits and reducing the learning curve.
  • Separate sterile cassette design: Supports operation of dual guidewires, dual rapid-exchange devices, and microcatheters, enhancing procedural flexibility.
  • Multiple control motion modes: Improves the system’s flexibility and adaptability, suitable for different vascular environments and various operators’ surgical habits.
  • Ultra-long travel design: Supports the entire procedural workflow after catheter sheath insertion, possessing pan-vascular compatibility.
  • 5G remote operation support: Lays the foundation for performing long-distance remote PCI.

III. CAPTAIN-C Study Design: A Rigorous Multicenter RCT

This prospective, multicenter, randomized controlled trial, led by Principal Investigator Academician Ge Junbo, aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of PANVIS STAR in PCI.
Inclusion criteria: Obstructive coronary artery disease, coronary artery stenosis ≥50%, with clinical indication for a single PCI procedure.
Exclusion criteria: Included recent stroke, acute MI within 48 hours, severe comorbidities, and complex coronary anatomy, among others.
The primary endpoint was clinical procedural success, defined as: final TIMI flow grade 3; residual stenosis <30%; and no Major Adverse Cardiovascular Events (MACE) during hospitalization.

IV. Core Results: Safe, Feasible, and Remarkably Effective

The study results showed:
Robotic group: 71 cases; Conventional manual group: 73 cases. There were no significant differences between the two groups in age, gender, underlying diseases (hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes), or clinical diagnosis at admission.
Interventional process and angiographic characteristics: Lesion type, rate of subtotal occlusion lesions, lesion length, and stent length showed no significant differences between groups. Almost all interventions were performed via the transradial approach.
The selected lesions were relatively complex, with B2 and C type lesions exceeding 60% in both groups, and approximately 20% of patients in both groups had subacute STEMI and NSTEMI.

Safety and Efficacy Results:
Clinical success rate: 97.18% in the robotic group.
Robotic technical success: 100%, with no conversions to manual procedure and no device deficiencies.
Remarkable effect in reducing radiation exposure for the primary operator: 97.2% reduction in iatrogenic radiation.
No significant differences were observed between the two groups regarding patient radiation dose and contrast agent volume.
These data not only validate the operational stability of PANVIS STAR in complex coronary lesions but also demonstrate its clear value in reducing physicians’ occupational risks.

V. Innovation and Breakthrough: From “Operable” to “Well-Operable”

The breakthrough of PANVIS STAR lies not only in the technology itself but also in its human-centric ergonomic design philosophy. Its controller simulates the traditional vascular interventional operation mode and techniques, allowing physicians to achieve precise, stable, and remote operation without changing their established habits.

Furthermore, the system supports remote intervention in a 5G environment. A successful remote PCI procedure over a distance of 5,200 kilometers was performed jointly by the team of Academician Ge Junbo and Professor Shen Li from Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, along with the team of Director Chen Qingxing (an expert from Zhongshan Hospital assisting in Xinjiang), Director Abulimiti Jamali, and Director Maimaitiaili Tuerxun from Kashi Second People’s Hospital in Xinjiang. This lays a practical foundation for future “cross-hospital,” “cross-regional,” and even “cross-border” PCI surgeries

VI. Clinical Value and Future Prospects

The clinical success of PANVIS STAR signifies that China possesses the capability for independent R&D and clinical translation in the field of interventional robotics. Its pan-vascular compatibility further expands its application prospects in areas such as neurovascular and peripheral vascular interventions.

With the integration of 5G networks and artificial intelligence technologies, future robot-assisted interventions will no longer be limited to “replacing human hands” but will advance towards new stages featuring intelligent navigation, automatic planning, and remote collaboration.

VII. Opening a New Chapter in Precision Intervention

The CAPTAIN-C study is not just a “coming-of-age ceremony” for the PANVIS STAR system; it is a solid step forward for Chinese interventional cardiology in the direction of intelligent and remote procedures. As Academician Ge Junbo’s team stated: “What we pursue is not only technological leadership but also enabling more physicians to perform each procedure safely and efficiently, allowing more patients to benefit from the warmth of technology.”

Media Contact:
Yoyo Wang,
wangluyao@abrobo.com  

 

 

Cango Inc. Announces October 2025 Bitcoin Production and Mining Operations Update

HONG KONG, Nov. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Cango Inc. (NYSE: CANG) (“Cango” or the “Company”) today published its Bitcoin production and mining operations update for October 2025.

Bitcoin Mining Production and Mining Operations Update for October 2025

Metric

October 2025 1

September 2025 1

Number of Bitcoin produced

602.6

616.6

Average number of Bitcoin produced per day

19.44

20.55

Total number of Bitcoin held 2

6412.6

5,810.0

Deployed hashrate

50 EH/s

50 EH/s

Average operating hashrate 3

46.09  EH/s

 44.85 EH/s

1.       Unaudited, estimated.

2.       As of month-end.

3.       Average over the month.

Note: Cango holds Bitcoin for the long term and does not currently intend to sell any of its Bitcoin holdings.

 

Paul Yu, CEO and Director of Cango, commented, “In October, we increased our average operating hashrate to over 90%, while our Bitcoin holdings surpassed the 6,000 BTC milestone, reaching a total of just over 6,400 BTC by month-end. These achievements highlight the operational maturity we have attained as we near the one-year mark of our strategic transformation. In October, we announced the termination of our ADR program and the planned direct listing of our ordinary shares on the NYSE, which we expect to complete in November. This further reinforces our commitment to operating as a U.S.-centric organization. We believe these operational and financial milestones put us in a strong position to capture value from emerging opportunities in energy and AI going forward.”

About Cango Inc.

Cango Inc. (NYSE: CANG) is primarily engaged in the Bitcoin mining business, with operations strategically deployed across North America, the Middle East, South America, and East Africa. The Company entered the crypto asset space in November 2024, driven by advancements in blockchain technology, the growing adoption of digital assets, and its commitment to diversifying its business portfolio. In parallel, Cango continues to operate an online international used car export business through AutoCango.com, making it easier for global customers to access high-quality vehicle inventory from China. For more information, please visit: www.cangoonline.com.

Investor Relations Contact

Juliet YE, Head of Communications
Cango Inc.
Email: ir@cangoonline.com 

Christensen Advisory
Tel: +852 2117 0861
Email: cango@christensencomms.com

Jasmine Food Launches Malaysia’s First Korean-Style Rice – Jasmine Oppa Rice

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Nov. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Jasmine Food Corporation today proudly announced the launch of Jasmine Oppa Rice, marking a new milestone as Malaysia’s first local brand to introduce Korean-style rice, specially crafted for authentic Korean dishes.

As K-pop and Korean culture continue to captivate Malaysians, from the music we listen to, the dramas we watch, and the food we love, Jasmine is bringing that passion to the dining table with a rice product that delivers the true taste and texture of Korea.

Jasmine Oppa Rice features a soft, fluffy, and slightly chewy texture that perfectly complements popular Korean favourites like bibimbap, kimchi fried rice, and kimbap. Locally packed, halal, and quality assured, it brings both authenticity and convenience to Malaysians who want to enjoy Korean meals at home.

“Malaysians have embraced the Korean wave in so many ways, and food is a big part of that connection,” said Mr. Alan Kwong, Chief Operating Officer of Jasmine Food Corporation. “With Jasmine Oppa Rice, we’re giving Malaysians a chance to enjoy the real Korean dining experience, even at the comfort of their own homes.”

The launch event took place at TGV Cinemas, 1 Utama, attended by distinguished guests, business partners, media, and influencers. Guests were treated to a showcase of Korean-inspired dishes and a special screening of G-Dragon in Cinema: Übermensh to celebrate the debut of Jasmine Oppa Rice.

Jasmine Oppa Rice is now available at major supermarkets and grocery stores nationwide.

For more information, visit www.jasmine.com.my or follow @JasmineFoodMY on social media.

– ENDS –

About Jasmine Food Corporation

Founded in 1960, Jasmine Food Corporation is Malaysia’s leading rice brand, trusted by generations for its quality, innovation, and commitment to healthy living. From fragrant rice to specialty grains, Jasmine continues to deliver products that celebrate both tradition and modern lifestyle.

SML Group Welcomes New Investors to Accelerate Next Phase of Global Growth

  • Leading private equity firms FountainVest and CPE join as investors, reflecting strong confidence in SML’s strategic direction and future growth
  • SML continues to advance its core capabilities for global brand and retail customers through next-generation innovations, including RFID, Digital Product Passport (DPP), Factory Care Solutions (FCS), and Digital IDs
  • The new investors will provide SML with additional resources, capital and relationships for the company to drive innovation, digital integration, geographic expansion and customer-centric growth

HONG KONG, Nov. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — SML Group, a global leader in RFID and brand identification solutions, today announced that FountainVest and CPE have joined as new shareholders. The introduction of these two respected global private equity firms marks a pivotal milestone in the company’s growth journey.

SML is a trusted supply chain and digital transformation partner to the world’s leading apparel and retail brands. The company specialises in delivering innovative end-to-end solutions across RFID, Digital Product Passports (DPP), Factory Care Solutions (FCS), Digital IDs and Tags & Labels, enabling customers to improve inventory accuracy, operational efficiency, sustainability tracking, and future consumer engagement.

With a strong global manufacturing footprint and presence across over 20+ countries, SML combines deep technical expertise with agile execution to support clients throughout their product lifecycle, from concept and packaging to digital integration and analytics. The company’s ongoing investment in R&D and advanced digital solutions continues to position it as a leading innovator within the brand identification and digital intelligence ecosystem.

Following a record-breaking 2024 and a strong performance in 2025 despite global headwinds, SML has expanded its global footprint with new production sites, major client partnerships, and significant advancements in sustainability and innovation through initiatives such as InfuseRFID, Factory Care Solutions, and the upcoming Digital Product Passports (DPP). These achievements demonstrate the strength of SML’s strategy, its people, and its ability to evolve with agility and precision.

The transition will be guided collaboratively by the new shareholders and SML’s leadership team. With deep appreciation for the company’s four-decade legacy, SML enters this new chapter with renewed energy and a clear ambition for global growth.

Investor Confidence and Strategic Alignment

The investment from FountainVest and CPE underscores strong confidence in SML’s long-term trajectory and ongoing transformation within brand identification and digital intelligence.

Together, the investors bring both regional and global expertise, extensive networks, and a shared belief in entrepreneurship, innovation, and long-term value creation.

Leadership Perspectives

Mr. Ignatius K.C. Lau, Chief Executive Officer of SML Group, commented:
“2024 marked the most successful year in our history, and 2025 has continued our growth journey despite global challenges. These milestones reflect the strength of SML’s strategy, the dedication of our people, and our ability to adapt and execute with excellence. The investment from FountainVest and CPE is a powerful validation of what we have built over the last four decades and a catalyst for the next phase. We will continue to evolve with determination – advancing innovation, strengthening leadership, and investing in our people.”

Mr. Rishi Pardal, incoming Chairman of SML Group, noted:
“SML’s greatest strength lies in its people – their creativity, commitment, and customer-first mindset. As we enter this next phase, our focus will remain on attracting and empowering talent, investing in innovation, and preserving our agility to ensure we are well prepared to serve our customers as they embrace a digitally enabled future.”

Mr. Andrew Huang, Managing Director at FountainVest, said:
“We have been following SML for many years, and see tremendous potential in SML’s ongoing transformation. As a founder-led company with an agile, entrepreneurial spirit, SML’s culture of innovation and collaboration reflects values we deeply believe in – integrity, teamwork, and forward-thinking. FountainVest has a deep network across the consumer, retail and industrial sectors, and we are excited for our collaborative partnership with the leadership team to support the company’s next chapter of growth.”

Mr. Hemeng Dong, Managing Director at CPE, added:
“CPE has a broad investment ecosystem from key supply chain to potential customers, we are committed to supporting SML in delivering superior products and integrated digital solutions that enhance lead time, quality, and overall performance. We’ll help the company meet growing demand for RFID, DPP and FCS solutions, explore new opportunities in labels, packaging, and software, and create long-term value for our customers.”

The Road Ahead

SML is accelerating innovation in RFID, Digital Product Passports (DPP), Factory Care Solutions (FCS), and Digital IDs, building on its excellent labels and packaging capabilities. The company’s strategic direction remains focused on growth through enhanced commercial capabilities, innovation, and digital transformation, building a more agile, customer-centric, and globally integrated organisation.

About SML

A global leader in digital identification solutions, such as item-level Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID), SML is shaping the future of brand identification globally with smart, creative and sustainable solutions that elevate brands. With over 40 years of retail expertise, SML combines state-of-the-art technology with innovative design to help brands strengthen their identity, enhance security, and improve operational efficiency from factory to shelf – and beyond. As a global leader in item-level brand identification solutions, SML connects billions of items globally each year, powering data-driven operations and enabling smart and more agile retail.

Operating in 25+ locations across 20+ countries, SML delivers global insights and local expertise through a diverse and customer-focused team. Partnering with 600+ brands worldwide, SML provides scalable, high-quality solutions and ensures precision, sustainability, and consistency at every stage of the supply chain.

Trusted Solutions – Powered by People

For more information, please visit https://www.sml.com/.

About FountainVest

FountainVest Partners is an established, independent private equity firm in Asia. It focuses on long-term investments in industry leaders, partnering closely with management teams to unlock value and drive growth, all while seeking to make a positive impact in the communities in which it works. FountainVest has a strong track record, having completed numerous landmark investments across the globe in multiple sectors, including consumer, industrials, and business services. FountainVest manages assets on behalf of the world’s leading public pensions, sovereign wealth funds, and other institutional investors.

For more information, please visit: www.fountainvest.com  

About CPE

CPE is a leading Asia-based alternative asset manager with a global perspective and approximately US$22 billion in assets under management. Pursuing a long-term vision and value investment strategy, CPE provides innovative investment solutions to leading firms from the following three key sectors – technology and industrial, consumer and healthcare, infrastructure. Currently with successful long-term performance, CPE’s funds under management are supported by over 200 domestic and international institutional investors across North America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. The core investment team has completed more than 300 investments globally, enabling the firm to accumulate key sector knowledge and a widespread business network. With a solid investment and research process, strong sector expertise and professional portfolio management capabilities, CPE builds long-term relationships with its portfolios in order to drive their value creation and sustainable growth.

For more information, please visit: www.cpe-fund.com

Advisors

Citigroup acted as exclusive financial advisor to FountainVest on the transaction. Jefferies acted as exclusive financial advisor to SML. Goodwin, DLA Piper, and Slaughter and May acted as legal advisors to FountainVest, CPE, and SML, respectively.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Rothman & Roman Group (Public Relations agency)

Diana Estella Peter | diana.estella@rothmanasia.com | +65 8498 9424
Olivia-Mae Tan | oliviamae.tan@rothmanasia.com | +65 9763 3312

Tailored for Aussie Home: Fox ESS Unleashes Energy Potential at All Energy 2025

MELBOURNE, Australia, Nov. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Fox ESS, a global leader in renewable energy solutions, made a remarkable impact at All Energy 2025, drawing a crowd of industry peers and visitors to its booth. The event showcased the latest advancements in renewable energy solutions, and Fox ESS was proud to feature its cutting-edge products and strategic partnerships.

 

Strategic Partnerships

On October 30, Fox ESS announced strategic partnerships with Solar Juice and OSW for energy storage projects totaling 4GWh. Both distributors established dedicated zones for Fox ESS at All Energy 2025. These collaborations represent Fox ESS making strides in advancing energy storage solutions in Australia.

Product Highlights

Among the standout products was the EQ 4800, tailored specifically for Australian households. This best-selling battery storage solution features:

  • Capacity: 4.66kWh per unit, with the ability to stack up to 9 units for a total capacity of 42kWh.
  • Performance: Maximum 100% Depth of Discharge (DOD).
  • Durability: IP65 rated for both indoor and outdoor use.
  • Compatibility: Works seamlessly with all H1-G2, KH, H3-Smart, and H3-Pro series inverters.
  • Warranty: 10 years with 70% battery retention.

The H3 Smart advanced hybrid inverter also garnered attention with its innovative features, including:

  • Built-in Wi-Fi and LAN for hassle-free installation.
  • An on-inverter screen for real-time data monitoring and quick settings adjustments.
  • Tailored for the Australian market with a standard 6-CT meter solution, seamlessly integrating with the common AC-coupled installation setups.
  • Compatibility with multiple Virtual Power Plant (VPP) platforms, including Amber, Evergen, and Synergy.
  • Frequency shift capability to enable battery charging during power outages.
  • Remote settings accessible for both retailers and installers.
  • Support for paralleling multiple units to enhance power and battery capacity.

Additionally, the KH series single phase inverter were introduced, engineered for maximum round-trip efficiency and easy installation with flexible configurations. They are IP65 rated, making them suitable for outdoor setups, and offer remote monitoring through a smartphone app or web portal.

Dual Recognition

TUV Rheinland certified the Fox ESS KH series energy storage inverters for compliance with the Australian grid connection standard, and EUPD named Fox ESS a top storage brand in Australia, further validating the quality and reliability of its products.

Fox ESS is poised for continued growth as a key player in Australia’s Cheaper Home Batteries Program, which has significantly increased local demand. This underscores the company’s commitment to boosting energy transition in Australia.

Global Leaders Explore Systems for a Balanced Future at 2025 Integral Conversation

GUILIN, China, Nov. 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The three-day 2025 Integral Conversation, hosted by Integral Institute, successfully concluded in Guilin from October 30 to November 1. Under the theme “Universe, Earth & Humanity in Harmony: Designing Systems for a Balanced Future”, the event brought together leaders and experts from government, business, academia, research, and culture to explore how nature and industry can not only coexist but collaborate in harmony. This year’s dialogue was shaped by four thematic forums — Agriculture, Technology, Industry and Education — each exploring the future of sustainability through diverse perspectives and cross-sector collaboration. The event was held at Integral, Esquel Group’s sustainable development garden in Guilin, attracting nearly 300 participants.

Held at Integral, the 2025 Integral Conversation brought together a diverse audience with nearly 300 people in attendance.
Held at Integral, the 2025 Integral Conversation brought together a diverse audience with nearly 300 people in attendance.

On October 30, Mr. Edgar Tung, Council Member of Integral Institute and CEO of Tessellation Group, delivered the welcome remarks. He underscored the importance of redefining progress through balance and interconnection, urging collective action that advances innovation while preserving the vitality of nature. He noted, “True sustainability is about restoring ecosystems, supporting human well-being, and transforming industries to be resilient for the long haul.”

During the Fireside Chat moderated by Professor Wang Tianyi, Council Member of the Integral Institute, Mr. Daniel Zhang, Managing Partner of Firstlight Capital, shared his perspectives on the parallels between natural and business ecosystems, emphasizing that a successful business ecosystem should reflect the principles of nature, including diversity, harmonious coexistence, and adaptability. Exceptional leaders, he added, are those who can guide teams to remain steady and confident amid uncertainty.

On October 31, Ms. Teresa Yang, Council Member of the Integral Institute and Vice Chairman of Esquel Group, shared how “Integral” exemplifies the integration of sustainability into daily operations through scientific planning, technological innovation, and lean management. The site was recently recognized as one of China’s first certified Zero-Carbon Parks. She remarked, “Sustainability is not a goal we set for the future, but a commitment we live every day. Only when principles are practiced through consistent action can true harmony between industry and nature be achieved.”

Ms. Teresa Yang, Council Member of Integral Institute and Vice Chairman of Esquel Group, delivers the opening remarks.
Ms. Teresa Yang, Council Member of Integral Institute and Vice Chairman of Esquel Group, delivers the opening remarks.

At the opening ceremony, Mr. Sun Huan Zhi, Vice Mayor of the Guilin Municipal People’s Government, commended Integral Institute’s efforts in promoting sustainability dialogue and collaboration in Guilin and beyond. He remarked, “Integral has set a strong example for Guilin’s green transformation. The theme of the 2025 Integral Conversation aligns with the city’s goal of building a world-class tourism destination and exploring green industrial growth, bringing new ideas and momentum to Guilin’s sustainable future.”

Ms. Irene Lee, Chairman of Hysan Development Company Limited, delivered a keynote address at the opening ceremony, moderated by Professor Christine Loh, Council Member of the Integral Institute and Chief Development Strategist at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. Ms. Lee shared Hysan’s century-long journey of balancing heritage and innovation, emphasizing sustainable urban design and long-term stewardship. She emphasized, “True urban development lies in respecting the past while shaping a connected, sustainable future.”

The “CEO Plenary” gathered business leaders from the technology, finance, and cultural sectors to explore how harmony can drive sustainable transformation in a rapidly changing world. The discussion highlighted how innovation, responsibility, and long-term thinking can align commercial success with social and environmental value, demonstrating that true progress lies in achieving balance between growth, purpose, and sustainability.

Four thematic forums followed, echoing this year’s theme through perspectives in Agriculture, Technology, Industry and Education. Each session explored how systems thinking can foster balance and coexistence between humanity and nature.

In the forum “Regenerative Land: Where Vineyards Meet Verse“, Mr. Dan Fishman, Vice President of Winemaking and Vineyards at The Donum Estate, shared how vineyard management can embody harmony between agriculture and nature. Donum integrates fine winemaking, sustainable agriculture, and art to restore biodiversity and foster a deeper human-nature connection.

In the forum “Fashioning Harmony: From Growth to Balance“, Ms. Christiane Dolva, Head of Innovation, Research & Demonstration at the H&M Foundation, shared how the fashion and manufacturing industries can drive sustainable transformation through systems thinking. She remarked, “Achieving a climate-neutral industry requires finding balance between innovation and reality, speed and patience—this is the key to long-term sustainability.”

In the forum “Technology with Purpose: Innovation Rooted in Humanity“, Ms. Heng Li Lang, Head of Climate & Liveability at Temasek Foundation, shared how the Foundation applies its “triple bottom line” framework to advance climate innovation by balancing ecological integrity, social well-being, and economic viability. She emphasized, “A truly sustainable solution must be environmentally sound, socially meaningful, and economically effective.”

In the forum “Laying the Groundwork: Educating the Next Global Generation“, Ms. Lillian Kiang, Chief Executive Officer of Bei Shan Tang Foundation, highlighted how emotional health and well-being can redefine learning, noting that “prioritizing emotional well-being in education does not diminish achievement; it helps students stay balanced and resilient in an increasingly complex world.”

In his closing remarks, Professor Hau Lee, Council Chair of Integral Institute, stated, “The Integral Conversation is not only a platform for intellectual exchange but also a community that turns ideas into action. On the journey toward sustainability, we must continue to reflect, seek harmony and inclusiveness amid differing goals and perspectives, and move forward together to build a more resilient future.”

Professor Hau Lee, Council Chair of Integral Institute, delivers the closing remarks.
Professor Hau Lee, Council Chair of Integral Institute, delivers the closing remarks.

Now in its twelfth year, Integral Conversation has, since its founding in 2014, convened over 3,000 representatives from more than 100 industries around the world, fostering ongoing dialogue and collaboration on sustainable development. Looking ahead, the Integral Conversation will continue to bring together global minds and practitioners to advance action-driven dialogues and collaboration on sustainable development.

About Integral Conversation

Integral Conversation provides thought leaders and experts from diverse fields an independent platform to exchange insights and perspectives on sustainable development models. Discussion topics spanned culture, education, innovation, urban planning and architecture, health care, digital transformation, and how they are connected to the concept of sustainability.

Integral Conversation is organized by the Integral Institute.

About Integral Institute

The Integral Institute is a non-profit organization that brings together experts, educators, researchers, entrepreneurs and other stakeholders to explore and deliberate sustainability at personal, institutional, and social levels. We cultivate transformative models, best practices, and offer a diverse range of programs to empower like-minded individuals and organizations through our comprehensive education and research platform.

Our approach is grounded in integral sustainability, which recognizes the interconnectedness of all aspects of life and the importance of addressing social, economic, and environmental issues together. We stimulate innovation, foster a holistic perspective on sustainability, and tackle the complex challenges of our world today. Through collaboration, knowledge exchange, and collective action, we drive meaningful change and pave the way towards a sustainable future.

Maldives Begins ‘Generational Ban’ on Smoking

Maldives enforces a generational smoking ban for those born after 2007, aiming to create a tobacco-free nation and protect health.

AFP – The Maldives began implementing a smoking ban Saturday on anyone born after January 2007, becoming the only nation with a generational prohibition on tobacco, the Health Ministry said.

The move, initiated by President Mohamed Muizzu earlier this year, which came into effect on 1 November, will “protect public health and promote a tobacco-free generation”, the ministry said.

“Under the new provision, individuals born on or after 1 January 2007 are prohibited from purchasing, using, or being sold tobacco products within the Maldives,” it added.

“The ban applies to all forms of tobacco, and retailers are required to verify age prior to sale.”

The measure also applies to visitors to the nation of 1,191 tiny coral islets scattered some 800 kilometers (500 miles) across the equator and known for its luxury tourism.

The ministry said it also maintains a comprehensive ban on the import, sale, distribution, possession, and use of electronic cigarettes and vaping products, applicable to all individuals regardless of age.

Selling tobacco products to an underage person carries a penalty of MVR 50,000 (USD 3,200), while using vape devices carries a fine of MVR 5,000 (USD 320).

A similar generational ban proposed in Britain is still going through the legislative process, while New Zealand, the first country to enact such a law against smoking, repealed it in November 2023, less than a year after it was introduced.


© Agence France-Presse