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Bakery China-Powered Bakery ASEAN to Debut in August, Showcasing Innovation in the Bakery and Confectionery Industry

JAKARTA, Indonesia, Aug. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The first Bakery ASEAN will be held from August 27 to 29, 2026, at the Jakarta International Expo (JIExpo) in Indonesia. Powered by Bakery China, the world’s largest bakery exhibition and a leading event in the Asia-Pacific region with nearly 30 years of industry expertise, Bakery ASEAN is co-organized by the China Association of Bakery & Confectionery Industry and Bakery China Exhibitions Co., Ltd. The event marks the first B2B trade exhibition dedicated to the bakery industry in the ASEAN region. Leveraging the established brand reputation, extensive exhibitor network, and buyer community of this proven platform, Bakery ASEAN is able to quickly build credibility and influence from its strategic location in the ASEAN core region, creating an efficient and open gateway for the global industry chain.


Expected to feature over 150 global exhibitors, including more than 100 leading Chinese brands, the exhibition will showcase cutting-edge products, technologies, and integrated solutions across the bakery and related food industry chains.

“The inaugural Bakery ASEAN marks an important step in deepening regional collaboration and unlocking the vast potential of Southeast Asia’s bakery sector. Building on the global reach and industry expertise of Bakery China, we are committed to providing a high-quality platform that facilitates trade, innovation, and knowledge exchange, and to opening a new chapter in the high-quality development of the ASEAN baking industry,” said Zhang Jiukui, President of the China Association of Bakery & Confectionery Industry.

Bakery ASEAN is widely regarded as a very encouraging development for the baking industry in the region, offering a valuable opportunity for industry players to connect, grow, and look ahead to new possibilities.

A strategic gateway to Southeast Asia’s growing bakery market

According to Bakery China, Southeast Asia’s bakery sector is entering a period of rapid growth. From 2023 to 2028, the regional market is projected to expand from USD 10.89 billion to USD 14.99 billion, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.60%. Indonesia, in particular, is expected to achieve a CAGR of 8%, with its market value forecast to surpass IDR 84.4 trillion by 2028. With a population of 290 million and a median age of just 32 years, Indonesia’s young and dynamic consumer base continues to drive strong market vitality.

On the trade front, Bakery ASEAN is expected to attract professional buyers from across the ASEAN region, covering a diverse range of channels including production and manufacturing, distribution, retail chains, supermarkets, hotels, and food service. Through targeted invitations and one‑on‑one business matching, the event will connect exhibitors with key regional buyers for efficient and productive engagement.

More than 10 high‑quality concurrent events will be held alongside the exhibition: the ASEAN Bakery Industry Forum will bring together global industry leaders to analyze market trends; masterclasses led by world‑class pastry champions and chefs from Michelin‑starred restaurants will showcase exceptional craftsmanship; and professional competitions, networking salons, and technical seminars will offer participants a well‑rounded experience spanning technology, business, and community building.

Bakery ASEAN: Where global expertise meets local markets

As a pivotal annual gathering for the regional industry that connects buyers and suppliers, showcases innovation, and fosters cross-border collaboration, Bakery ASEAN aspires to establish an international trade platform dedicated to the ASEAN region, delivering efficient access and brand visibility for companies looking to grow in Southeast Asia and beyond, and creating lasting value for the entire industry.

Global bakery professionals are cordially welcome to participate in this landmark gathering in Jakarta and become part of an exciting new chapter for the region’s baking industry.

Osara Health Marks 10 Years with Global Call to Make Cancer Support Beyond Treatment Standard

Launched to mark the company’s 10th anniversary, Osara Health’s Global Cancer Support Declaration has already secured signatures from healthcare professionals worldwide.

NEW YORK, Aug. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Osara Health, a global digital health company focused on the human experience of cancer care, marks 10 years since its founding with 527 healthcare professionals signing its Global Cancer Support Declaration.

Osara Health celebrates 10 years of supporting the human side of cancer.
Osara Health celebrates 10 years of supporting the human side of cancer.

Launched earlier this year, the declaration calls for people living with and beyond cancer to receive support that extends beyond treatment. Signatories include oncologists and cancer specialists worldwide, with a goal of 2,000 signatures by year-end.

Founded in 2016, Osara Health delivers cancer support programs through leading insurers and employers across the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

The milestone comes as cancer’s impact on working-age populations grows. 45% of cancer diagnoses occur during working life, while improving survival means more people are living with and beyond cancer.

Today, Osara Health supports more than 11 million covered lives through partnerships with organizations including MetLife, Manulife, Guardian, Allstate Benefits, nib, GMHBA, and UniMed. Its programs are backed by more than 11 peer-reviewed studies, including recent findings published in JMIR Cancer in 2026 showing significant improvements in physical and mental health outcomes.

“As an oncologist, I watched people receive excellent treatment and then return home to manage fear, fatigue, work, and family largely on their own. Osara Health was founded to address the human side of cancer: how people feel, function, and live after diagnosis. Seeing colleagues around the world put their names to that belief is the best anniversary gift we could ask for,” said Dr Raghav Murali-Ganesh, CEO, Co-Founder of Osara Health, and Radiation Oncologist.

“We started with an app, but the lesson of our first decade is simple: people do better when someone is in their corner between appointments,” said Tim Atkins, Co-Founder and COO of Osara Health. “The declaration is an invitation to make that support standard, wherever someone is diagnosed.”

To mark the anniversary, Osara Health has released 10 Years Supporting the Human Side of Cancer, available at https://osarahealth.com/2026-declaration.

About Osara Health
Osara Health is a global digital health company transforming the human side of cancer care through evidence-based behavior change science, human coaching, and digital tools. Learn more at osarahealth.com.

Media Contact
Paul Oganyan, Senior Marketing Manager
marketing@osarahealth.com

Hunger for Culture: New Airbnb Data Reveals Rise of Culinary Travel in Indonesia

Food & Drink is now the fastest-growing category among Airbnb Experiences in Indonesia by search demand, with Bali emerging as the top spot for culinary bookings.


BALI, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 August 2026 – For many travelers, exploring local culinary traditions is the trip itself. New Airbnb data highlights the popularity of culinary Experiences across Indonesia, with both domestic and international travelers seeking out food-led activities for a more authentic taste of the culture.

Left: Chef Arnold Poernomo | Right: Chef Reynold Poernomo (Airbnb)
Left: Chef Arnold Poernomo | Right: Chef Reynold Poernomo (Airbnb)

Since its launch, Food & Drink has become Airbnb Experiences’ third-most-popular category in Indonesia, behind only Nature & Outdoors and History & Culture[1]. Bali sits at the heart of this culinary interest, with over 90% of all culinary Experience bookings in Indonesia taking place on the island1.

Guest feedback backs this up. Indonesia’s culinary Experiences carry a 4.94 average rating, with reviewers most often reaching for words like “authentic,” “traditional,” “hands-on,” “local,” and “family”[2].

The appetite extends beyond Experiences, too: searches for Airbnb homes with kitchen amenities in Indonesia are up over 20% year-on-year[3], suggesting that more guests are choosing stays where they can cook together and recreate the local flavours they discover during their trip.

Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s Country Head for Southeast Asia & India, said, “Today’s travelers are increasingly looking for experiences that help them connect more deeply with the places they visit, and food has become one of the most meaningful ways to do that. Whether it’s shopping at a neighbourhood market, learning a family recipe, or cooking together in an Airbnb, these moments create lasting memories while supporting local communities. Through Airbnb Experiences, we’re proud to help travelers discover Indonesia in a way that feels more personal, immersive, and connected to local culture.“

To spotlight this growing appetite for culinary travel, Airbnb recently hosted a one-off Culture & Culinary Trail luncheon in Bali with renowned chefs Arnold and Reynold Poernomo — a chef-curated dining moment celebrating Bali’s culinary heritage through local ingredients and stories. The luncheon offered a preview of what travelers can already find on Airbnb Experiences: intimate sessions on local food culture, interactive dining sessions, and meals hosted by local chefs in Bali and beyond.

Arnold Poernomo said, “As chefs, we’ve always believed that some of the most memorable travel memories happen around the dining table. Food has a unique way of bringing people together and telling the story of a place through its ingredients, traditions, and the people behind them. By hosting this luncheon with Airbnb, we wanted to celebrate Bali’s rich culinary heritage and inspire travelers to look beyond the plate, to discover the culture, communities, and local stories.“

For Reynold Poernomo, the most memorable travel experiences often begin with discovering the people behind the food.

“For the more adventurous, go to the markets, and you’ll discover some unique produce that you’ll most likely not find in any other part of the world. That’s part of why we love what Airbnb Experiences does – it connects you directly with local hosts who can take you to those markets and show you ingredients you’d never find wandering on your own.”

The Poernomo brothers recommend three Airbnb Experiences worth booking on a Bali trip:

As travelers continue seeking slower, more meaningful ways to explore destinations, Airbnb Experiences inspire visitors to discover a different side of Bali — through the people, ingredients, and stories shared around the table.

Disclaimer: All Experiences referenced are intended purely to inspire and illustrate. Airbnb does not recommend or endorse specific listings on the Airbnb platform.


[1]Based on Airbnb internal data of Experience categories across Indonesia

[2] Based on Airbnb internal data reflecting Q1 2026 average star ratings and 5-star rates for culinary Experiences in Indonesia, as well as the highest-ranking review keywords mentioned for culinary Experiences in Bali

[3]Based on Airbnb internal data of the most searched amenities for listings in Indonesia, comparing February–March 2025 to February–March 2026

Hashtag: #Airbnb #AirbnbExperiences #Travel #TravelTrends


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

Airbnb

About Airbnb

Airbnb was born in 2007 when two hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home, and has since grown to over 5.5 million hosts who have welcomed 2.5 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, hosts offer unique stays and experiences that make it possible for guests to connect with communities in a more authentic way.

For more information, please contact:

Nicolette Koh, Airbnb – nicolette.koh

Maverick Indonesia –

Vinpearl Named The Strongest Hotel Brand Globally


HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 August 2026 – Vinpearl has officially been named the strongest hotel brand globally in 2026 by Brand Finance, the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy, with its brand value surging 86% to US$381 million. This marks the first time a Vietnamese brand has claimed the No. 1 position in global hotel brand strength and entered the Top 50 Most Valuable Hotel Brands in the World. Vinpearl’s remarkable breakthrough not only elevates the stature of the company, but also helps establish a new position for Vietnamese tourism on the international stage.

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With a Brand Strength Index (BSI) score of 95.4/100 and an AAA+ rating, Vinpearl has surpassed a host of renowned hospitality names to rank No. 1 globally in hotel brand strength.

The Brand Strength Index (BSI) score reflects a brand’s overall strength, encompassing investment performance, customer and partner consideration, and its ability to generate business value.

The AAA+ rating is the highest level in Brand Finance’s brand strength rating system.

Alongside its No. 1 ranking, Vinpearl’s brand value also recorded a record increase of 86% to US$381 million year on year, enabling the company to enter the Top 50 Most Valuable Hotel Brands in the World for the first time.

Vinpearl’s position in brand strength has been driven by accelerated growth across all areas of its operations.

Specifically, in terms of financial strength, in 2026, VPL shares were included in the VN30 Index. Vinpearl also successfully raised US$255 million from SeaTown Holdings, Oman Investment Authority and Vietnam Oman Investment.

In terms of market development, Vinpearl has continued to expand its global connectivity in 2026, signing strategic cooperation agreements with leading international and regional partners, including Agoda, AirAsia MOVE, BeMyGuest, GlobalTix, Klook, CAITO, Thomas Cook India, SOTC Travel, MakeMyTrip, IHG Hotels & Resorts and Marriott International, among others. These partnerships aim to increase international visitor flows and enhance service quality across Vinpearl’s system.

In terms of products and services, Vinpearl has continued to expand its multi-segment tourism, hospitality and entertainment ecosystem in 2026. Key initiatives include the launch of Vinpearl Legendlux, a six-star ultra-luxury hotel brand; the introduction of VinFun, a new-generation hotel brand designed to cater to a broader range of guests; the development of Vin New Horizon, a wellness and senior living offering; the premiere of the spectacular stage production “The Grand Epic of Vietnam”; and the launch of The Vietnam Grand WeddX 2026, a new-generation platform for exhibitions and industry connections in Vietnam’s wedding sector.

The collective efforts of the entire ecosystem in 2026 have driven Vinpearl’s remarkable rise in rankings, from being the leading hotel brand in Southeast Asia to becoming the strongest hotel brand globally .

Beyond Brand Finance, the strength of the Vinpearl ecosystem has also been continuously recognized by leading global tourism organizations and platforms. In 2026, VinWonders Nha Trang became the only representative from Vietnam to be included in the Top 100 Global Best Family-Friendly Attractions; Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An received the ASEAN Green Hotel Award 2026; while Vinpearl’s hotels and resorts and VinWonders properties have continued to receive recognition from Booking.com, Agoda and Trip.com, among others, through rankings and awards.

Recognition from the world’s leading tourism rating organizations serves as an important source of motivation for Vinpearl to further elevate its ecosystem, bringing destinations and experiences imbued with Vietnamese identity closer to domestic and international travelers. The company is moving toward its goal of becoming a leading global tourism and hospitality brand, while contributing to elevating Vietnam’s position on the world tourism map.

Hashtag: #Vinpearl

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

About Brand Finance

Brand Finance Plc is the world’s leading brand valuation consultancy, founded in 1996 in London, United Kingdom. It is the only company with a brand valuation methodology that complies with the ISO 10668 international standard for brand valuation, with a presence in more than 20 countries worldwide. Brand Finance reports are used by numerous countries, governments and leading global corporations.

Every year, Brand Finance conducts valuations of more than 70,000 brands worldwide. This marks the 10th year that Vietnam has been included among the countries whose brands are valued by Brand Finance, with Brand Finance Asia-Pacific, headquartered in Singapore, responsible for publishing the rankings.

About Vinpearl

Established in 2003, Vinpearl is Vietnam’s leading brand in tourism, hospitality, entertainment and experiential travel. After more than two decades of development, Vinpearl currently operates 62 properties across 20 provinces and cities.

Its ecosystem comprises 35 five-star hotels and resorts with more than 17,500 rooms; 15 VinWonders theme parks featuring a diverse range of attractions suitable for guests of all ages; six world-class golf courses; and four international-standard VinPalace convention centers and theaters.

The ecosystem also includes two semi-wildlife animal conservation and care parks and one equestrian academy, among other offerings. Particularly notable are Vinpearl’s impressive and distinctive “million-dollar” live shows, staged at destinations including Nha Trang and Phu Quoc, which attract millions of visitors each year.

Hony Media Officially Expands into Robotics Platform Operation Business Establishes Joint Venture AIROBO (HK) to Deepen AI Application Scenarios

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – Hony Media Group (“Hony Media Group“, the “Company“; Stock code: 419.HK; together with its subsidiaries collectively known as the “Group“) today announced that it has jointly established a joint venture, AIROBO (HK) LIMITED, in Hong Kong with AIROBO PTE. LTD (“AIROBO”), marking the Group’s official entry into the robotics platform operation business. The Group holds 70% equity interest in the joint venture, with AIROBO holding the remaining 30%. The joint venture has also set up a wholly‑owned subsidiary, AIROBO (Chengdu) Technology Co., Ltd., in the China (Sichuan) Pilot Free Trade Zone, which serves as the Group’s independent operating entity in Mainland China, taking full responsibility for business development, platform technology operationand customer service for the robotics platform in the PRC market. Both the joint venture and AIROBO (Chengdu) have become subsidiaries of the Group, and their financial results will be consolidated into the Group’s consolidated financial statements, further strengthening the Group’s asset and business foundation.

This business expansion signifies that the Group is extending its artificial intelligence and digitised operation capabilities from the existing healthcare industry sector into physical space scenarios. The Group has long been deeply engaged in digitised operations in the healthcare industry, having accumulated robust capabilities in AI algorithms, data platform operations and intelligent system development. The robotics platform operation business represents an innovative application of these core technologies in the physical world, sharing a common technical foundation with the Group’s existing technology systems, thus enabling efficient synergy and capability reuse. With the rapid advancement of AI, the Internet of Things and automation technologies, the robotics industry is evolving from pure hardware manufacturing toward platform‑based operations, presenting vast market opportunities. The Group’s timely entry into this emerging sector not only represents a meaningful expansion of its existing application scenarios, but also reflects the management’s keen insight into industry trends and forward‑looking strategic planning.

The Group’s partner, AIROBO, brings professional experience in robotics platform operations and technology research and development, while the Group contributes mature corporate management capabilities, abundant market resources and proven hands‑on expertise in digitised operations. The complementary strengths of both parties will provide solid support for the joint venture’s business development, help accelerate technology deployment and market penetration, and achieve resource sharing and capability superimposition. The Board firmly believes that this collaboration will inject new growth momentum into the Group, further diversify its revenue structure, and create sustainable value for shareholders over the long term. The Group will continue to focus on its core competitiveness in AI and digitised operations, actively explore further possibilities for technological innovation and industrial integration, and steadily advance its strategic transformation and upgrade.

Mr. Yuen Hoi Po, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Hony Media Group, said: “This joint venture marks the official extension of the Group’s AI and digitised operation capabilities from the healthcare industry into physical robotics scenarios – a significant cross‑domain application of our technological strengths. As the robotics industry evolves from hardware manufacturing towards platform‑based operations, the Group is seizing this structural opportunity and extending the existing artificial intelligence and digital operation capabilities to robotics platform scenarios. AIROBO brings professional experience in robot platform operation and application scenarios, while the Group contributes market resources and management expertise. The complementary strengths of both parties will provide solid support for the business deployment of the joint venture. We believe this initiative will inject new growth momentum into the Group and generate long‑term sustainable value for our shareholders.”

Hashtag: #HonyMedia

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

About Hony Media Group

Hony Media Group is a Hong Kong‑listed company specialising in digitised operations and AI applications, with deep expertise in intelligent system development and data platform operations in the healthcare industry. The Group remains committed to driving industrial upgrading through technological innovation and actively expanding into emerging business scenarios. For more information about Hony Media Group, please visit the official website of the Group: .

16th IPMEX Malaysia 2026 Opens, Advancing Smart and Sustainable Printing Across ASEAN

More than 1,000 booths showcase next-generation printing, packaging and signage solutions from Malaysian and international companies

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Aug. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The 16th International Printing, Paper, Packaging Machinery Exhibition (IPMEX Malaysia 2026) officially opened today at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), officiated by YB Datuk Seri Dr. Wee Ka Siong, Member of Parliament for Ayer Hitam and President of the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA). The four-day exhibition brings the printing, packaging, labelling, signage and textile-printing industries together around automation, sustainability and new commercial opportunities.

16th IPMEX Malaysia 2026 Opens, Advancing Smart and Sustainable Printing Across ASEAN
16th IPMEX Malaysia 2026 Opens, Advancing Smart and Sustainable Printing Across ASEAN

Organised by Kaizer Exhibitions & Conferences Sdn Bhd under the theme “Print Package Possibility”, IPMEX Malaysia 2026 runs from 12 to 15 August 2026. The exhibition is endorsed by the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE), supported by the Malaysia Convention & Exhibition Bureau (MyCEB) and 15 industry associations.

Malaysia’s printing, packaging, signage and textile industries are essential to our commercial and export ecosystem. We must support SMEs in adopting practical automation, AI-driven inspection, energy-efficient equipment and more sustainable materials, while continuing to upskill our workforce. Platforms such as IPMEX and Sign Malaysia connect local businesses with global technology and partnerships, helping them raise productivity, meet international standards and strengthen Malaysia’s competitiveness in regional supply chains,” said YB Datuk Seri Ir. Dr. Wee Ka Siong.

Occupying 12,530 square metres, the 16th edition features 214 exhibiting companies, comprising 90 international companies and 124 Malaysian companies. Participants represent China, Italy, South Korea, Singapore, the United States and Malaysia, while the organiser expects 13,389 trade visitors across the four days. The scale reflects IPMEX’s continued development as a regional sourcing and technology platform for printers, converters, brand owners, sign makers, equipment distributors and buyers.

“IPMEX Malaysia 2026 is designed to move beyond a static machinery showcase. By bringing commercial printing, smart packaging, label production and visual signage into one sourcing environment, we aim to help regional businesses adopt automation, AI-enabled inspection, digital workflows and lower-waste production,” said Ms. Belle Yam, Managing Director of Kaizer Exhibitions & Conferences Sdn Bhd.

IPMEX Malaysia 2026 is co-located with Sign Malaysia Exhibition, themed “LED Light Up the City”, and features zones for Label & Flexible Packaging and Textile Print. Together, the platforms connect industrial print, paper and packaging machinery with signage, digital displays, advertising media and print applications. This integrated format enables visitors to source across the value chain, from raw print media and automated finishing systems to packaging, labels and illuminated signage.

Technology highlights include high-speed digital and variable-data printing, smart label production, flexible and corrugated packaging, pre-press and post-press systems, UV-LED printing, direct-to-garment and direct-to-film solutions, automated visual inspection, interactive displays and more sustainable inks and materials. Featured brands and technology providers include Epson, HP, Mimaki, Konica Minolta, Ricoh, Kodak, Mutoh, Pulisi and Malaysian manufacturer STH Wire.

Business-matching, live demonstrations and networking programmes will run throughout the exhibition, helping Malaysian companies evaluate new production technologies, identify distribution partners and connect with regional and international buyers. The event also supports the industry’s shift toward shorter production runs, personalised packaging, energy-efficient equipment and more circular manufacturing practices.

As IPMEX enters its 16th edition, the exhibition reinforces Malaysia’s role as an ASEAN gateway for printing, packaging and visual communication technologies, while creating a platform for cross-border sourcing, technology adoption and partnerships. IPMEX Malaysia 2026 continues at MITEC until 15 August 2026.

About IPMEX Malaysia

IPMEX Malaysia is an established biennial business-to-business trade exhibition serving the printing, paper, packaging machinery, labelling, publishing and connected visual communication industries. Organised by Kaizer Exhibitions & Conferences Sdn Bhd, the exhibition has evolved over 16 editions from an industrial printing machinery show into an integrated regional platform covering digital printing, smart labels, flexible packaging, textile printing, signage and sustainable production technologies. IPMEX connects manufacturers, technology providers, printers, converters, brand owners, distributors and trade buyers through live demonstrations, business matching and cross-border networking.

Website: https://kaizer.com.my/ipmex-malaysia/

 

Acwa signs joint development agreement with PT GARAM for Indonesia’s first utility-scale integrated seawater desalination and industrial salt project

  • Approximately USD 400 million project designed to produce around 62,500 cubic meters of desalinated water per day and 500,000 tons of high-purity industrial salt a year
  • Advances Indonesia’s water and industrial-salt security in a single integrated facility at Manyar, Gresik, East Java
  • Joint development agreement signed at Danantara’s office in Jakarta and witnessed by H.E. Rosan Roeslani, Chief Executive Officer of Danantara, and Minister of Investment of the Republic of Indonesia

JAKARTA, Indonesia and RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Aug. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Saudi-listed Acwa (formerly ACWA Power), the world’s largest private water desalination company, a leader in the energy transition, and a first mover into green hydrogen at scale, has signed a Joint Development Agreement with PT GARAM, Indonesia’s state-owned salt enterprise, to develop the country’s first utility-scale integrated seawater desalination and industrial salt production facility.

Left to right: Mr. Abraham Mose (President Director of PT GARAM), H.E. Mr. Rosan Roeslani (CEO Danantara, Minister of Investment of the Republic of Indonesia), H.E. Mr. Faisal Abdullah Al-Amodi (Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Republic of Indonesia), Dr. Samir J. Serhan (Group CEO of Acwa) and Mr. Tim Anderson (President Director of PT Acwa Power Indonesia)
Left to right: Mr. Abraham Mose (President Director of PT GARAM), H.E. Mr. Rosan Roeslani (CEO Danantara, Minister of Investment of the Republic of Indonesia), H.E. Mr. Faisal Abdullah Al-Amodi (Ambassador of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the Republic of Indonesia), Dr. Samir J. Serhan (Group CEO of Acwa) and Mr. Tim Anderson (President Director of PT Acwa Power Indonesia)

The agreement was signed by Abraham Mose, President Director of PT GARAM, and Tim Anderson, Chief Executive Officer of PT Acwa Power Indonesia, at Danantara’s office in Jakarta and witnessed by H.E. Rosan Roeslani, Chief Executive Officer of Danantara and Minister of Investment of the Republic of Indonesia. Planned for Manyar in Gresik, East Java, and valued at approximately USD 400 million, the facility will combine a seawater reverse-osmosis (SWRO) plant with an integrated salt production line, producing around 62,500 cubic meters of desalinated water per day and approximately 500,000 tons of high-purity industrial salt a year.

Dr. Samir J. Serhan, Chief Executive Officer of Acwa, said: “Indonesia is an important growth market for Acwa, and this agreement represents another step in our commitment to supporting the country’s long-term water and industrial needs. By combining our expertise in large-scale seawater desalination with the production of high-purity industrial salt, we have an opportunity to deliver an integrated solution that strengthens water security while supporting Indonesia’s ambition to increase domestic salt production. We look forward to working closely with PT GARAM and Danantara to advance this important project.”

The project is designed on a Build-Own-Operate basis and will be developed through a project company established in Indonesia, using a limited or non-recourse project financing structure anchored in the project’s own cash flows. Indonesia currently imports more than 4 million tons of industrial salt a year, with demand expected to rise to more than 7.7 million tons by 2028. By recovering high-purity salt as a co-product of the desalination brine-management process, the Gresik facility is designed to increase domestic salt supply while providing a reliable source of desalinated water for industrial use. The project also creates the potential, subject to feasibility, to recover additional marine minerals from the same process.

Abraham Mose, President Director of PT GARAM, said: “The signing of this Joint Development Agreement marks a significant milestone for PT GARAM in building a salt industry that is more modern, efficient, and competitive. This enables Indonesia to increase salt production capacity while also building an industrial ecosystem that integrates desalination technology, industrial salt production, energy efficiency, and the potential for developing other marine minerals. Technology and knowledge transfer are central to this collaboration, and our aim is to ensure that Indonesia has world-scale production facilities alongside the workforce capable of operating and developing them sustainably.”

Tim Anderson, Chief Executive Officer of PT Acwa Power Indonesia, said: “This is a strong foundation for developing an integrated solution tailored to Indonesia’s needs. Combining desalinated water and high-purity industrial salt production within a single facility creates the potential to address two important national priorities at once. Our focus will now be on working closely with PT GARAM to progress the project responsibly and establish the foundations for its successful long-term development.”

Under the agreement, Acwa will contribute its experience in desalination project development, technology selection, technical design, financing structure, engineering, procurement, and construction, as well as long-term operations and maintenance. The collaboration also includes knowledge and technology transfer, training, and the sharing of operating protocols with personnel from PT GARAM and the project company. PT GARAM will lead site readiness and project access, permitting, and stakeholder coordination in Indonesia, and the development of markets and commercial channels for the facility’s output.

Acwa holds more than 98 GW of global power capacity, including more than 52 GW of renewable energy, and is the world’s largest private water desalination company. Its global experience in developing, financing, constructing, and operating large-scale water and power infrastructure, together with its growing presence in Indonesia, positions the company to support the country’s long-term demand for reliable and sustainable water solutions.

About Acwa

Acwa (TADAWUL: 2082) is a Saudi-listed company and the world’s largest private water desalination company, the first mover into green hydrogen, and a leader in the global energy transition. Registered and established in 2004 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, Acwa employs over 4,000 people and is currently present in 16 countries in the Middle East, Africa, Central Asia, and Southeast Asia. As of July 2026, Acwa’s portfolio comprises 111 assets in operation, advanced development, or under construction, representing SAR 475 billion / USD 127 billion of assets under management and the capacity to generate 98.2 GW of power (of which 52.3 GW is renewables) and manage 9.7 million m³/day of desalinated water. The energy and water capacity generated by Acwa’s assets is delivered on a bulk basis to address the needs of state utilities and industries on long-term, off-taker contracts under utility services outsourcing and public-private partnership models.

Learn more: www.acwapower.com 

 

Vinhomes Drives Asia’s Sustainable Real Estate Evolution Through Integrated ESG Scale


HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 August 2026 – Vinhomes, Vietnam’s leading real estate developer, is fundamentally redefining the role of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) in urban development. Moving beyond compliance reporting, the company has embedded ESG principles into every phase of its project lifecycle, from construction and governance to operations and resident experience.

Located in Can Gio, Vinhomes Green Paradise is positioned as the world's first
Located in Can Gio, Vinhomes Green Paradise is positioned as the world’s first “ESG++” coastal mega-development, expanding beyond traditional sustainability pillars.

Through two landmark coastal mega-developments, Vinhomes Green Paradise, positioned as the world’s first “ESG++” city, and Vinhomes Global Gate in Hạ Long, which applies the same principles at landmark scale, Vinhomes is redefining sustainable urban development by adding Regeneration and Resilience to the traditional ESG pillars.

This strategic approach reinforces Vietnam’s position within Asia’s evolving sustainable real estate landscape, aligning with global institutional investors’ growing demand for resilient, future-proof assets.

From compliance to competitive advantage, ESG as an operational backbone

Vinhomes has systematically transformed ESG from a reporting obligation into a competitive differentiator. Across its construction sites, the company applies rigorous environmental management protocols long before projects reach completion. Construction sites deploy dust-suppression systems, automated wheel‑washing stations, real‑time emissions tracking, vibration monitoring, comprehensive wastewater treatment and noise control, measures increasingly expected in developed markets, yet still uncommon when implemented consistently at this scale across mega-projects.

Equally, social governance is a priority. Vinhomes invests heavily in workforce development through technical training, strict occupational safety standards, and competitive welfare policies. On the governance front, the company operates under internationally recognized certifications, including ISO 9001 (quality), ISO 14001 (environment), ISO 45001 (health and safety), and SA8000 (social accountability). Standardized construction management, data transparency, and performance‑based accountability further reduce operational risks and ensure project delivery, with compliance extending across the organisation through environmental and safety procedures, including waste segregation, environmental protection measures, and customer response protocols.

Post‑completion, Vinhomes continues to uphold ESG through integrated property management, centralized security, professional facility services, and digital platforms that simplify daily life. Internal surveys indicate that more than 96% of residents express satisfaction with these services, underscoring how operational excellence increasingly forms part of the company’s broader ESG proposition. These efforts have begun earning external recognition: in 2025, Vinhomes received the “Enterprise for Green Community Action” award at the inaugural Vietnam ESG Awards, acknowledging its leadership in integrating ESG principles into both development and operational practices.

Building ESG++ cities, regeneration and resilience as the new frontier

The traditional ESG framework balances environmental protection, social inclusivity, and governance. Vinhomes goes further. Its “ESG++” concept, first embodied in Vinhomes Green Paradise in Can Gio, adds two critical dimensions.

The first is Regeneration, which focuses on actively restoring coastal ecosystems through continuous mangrove reforestation, biodiversity conservation, and environmental education programmes.

The second is Resilience, which entails designing urban infrastructure that can adapt to future climate challenges, including sea‑level rise, rather than merely responding to present conditions.

Vinhomes Green Paradise integrates ecological master planning, renewable energy, efficient water management, and energy‑efficient infrastructure, targeting BREEAM certification for green development and ISO 37122 for smart city performance.

Its social ecosystem, encompassing healthcare, education, cultural venues, sports facilities, and public amenities, is planned to support long‑term community well‑being, not as isolated components but as an interconnected urban fabric.

Governance within Green Paradise is expected to rely heavily on smart-city technologies that optimise transportation, security, public services, and energy management through digital platforms, improving operational efficiency while enhancing residents’ daily experience.

Vinhomes Global Gate Ha Long, officially launched on April 25, 2026, applies the same principles to a different geography. Spanning over 6,200 hectares along the Ha Noi – Hai Phong – Quang Ninh expressway and overlooking UNESCO‑listed Hạ Long Bay, the project is strategically positioned as an international urban gateway, sited directly opposite the planned depot station of the future Ha Noi – Quang Ninh high‑speed railway. Once rail services begin, the line will place Ha Long just 23 minutes from the capital, prompting Vinhomes to envision it as a future “New Ha Noi” beside one of the world’s most celebrated natural wonders.

More than 2,500 hectares of green spaces, waterways, and mangrove systems are woven into the master plan, including 680 hectares of naturally filtered seawater, approximately 200 km of sandy coastline, and over 660 hectares of Globe Ha Long Forest Park. The development is also targeting ISO 37125 (environmental and social governance for cities), further reinforcing its global sustainability credentials.

As Vietnam’s property market enters a more selective recovery phase in 2026, driven by regulatory transparency, disciplined capital allocation, and rising demand for integrated, eco‑responsible developments, Vinhomes’ two flagship projects stand out as benchmarks. By combining resilient planning, operational excellence, and internationally verifiable sustainability standards, Green Paradise and Global Gate are poised to attract keen interest from both domestic homebuyers and institutional investors worldwide.

Ultimately, these projects are not merely large‑scale real estate ventures. They represent a compelling case that Vietnam can actively shape the next generation of globally relevant ESG‑driven cities, where economic growth, ecological restoration, and climate adaptation reinforce rather than compete with each other.

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About Vinhomes

Vinhomes is Vietnam’s largest residential real estate and integrated township developer. The company pioneers the development of synchronized, modern large-scale townships, delivering premium living standards and unlocking sustainable investment opportunities for domestic and international clients.