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Siam Paragon Bangkok Watch Week 2025 Opens with a Historic Celebration

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Advertorial Desk
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Founders and top executives from the world’s leading luxury watch brands united for an unprecedented evening celebrating horological culture, the largest luxury watch event in Southeast Asia.


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 September 2025 – Siam Paragon reaffirms its position as Thailand’s premier luxury watch destination, showcasing the country’s most extensive collection of world-class watch brands. With a commitment to establishing Thailand as the emerging “hub of horological culture” in Southeast Asia, the iconic lifestyle destination is set to host an exclusive celebration — “Siam Paragon Bangkok Watch Week: Opening Ceremony.”

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The special evening on September 24, 2025, brought together founders and senior executives from leading luxury watch maisons around the globe to honor the timeless artistry of watchmaking and to mark the grand arrival of Siam Paragon Bangkok Watch Week 2025 — the largest luxury watch event in Southeast Asia.

The opening ceremony was graced by an impressive gathering of senior executives and visionaries from the world’s most prestigious watch brands. Distinguished guests included Mr. Nicholas Gong (Managing Director APAC, A. Lange & Söhne), Mr. Joseph Munoz (Director, Bvlgari), Ms. Florence Inumaru (Director SEA, Boucheron), and Mr. Karl-Fritz Scheufele (Fifth-Generation founder, Chopard).

Also in attendance were Mr. Nicholas Rudaz (CEO, Franck Muller), Mr. Takashi Aoki (Managing Director, Grand Seiko Thailand), Mr. Christian Knoop (Chief Design Officer, IWC Schaffhausen), Mr. Veerasak Tangudomlert (Managing Director, Jaeger-LeCoultre), and Mr. Robert Bailey (Spokesperson, Laurent Ferrier).

The celebration further welcomed Mr. Carlos Da Costa Saraiva (Head of Customer Service, Panerai), Ms. Emmanuelle Kouakou (Managing Director, Southeast Asia & Oceania, Piaget), Ms. Lesley Co (Managing Director, Southeast Asia & Oceania, Panerai), Mr. Brice Tchaplyguine (Managing Director, SEA, Australia & Korea, Tag Heuer), Mr. Romain Marietta (Chief Products Officer, Zenith), Mr. Edouard Guibert (Managing Director, Southeast Asia & Oceania, Roger Dubuis), Mr. Xavier de Roquemaurel (Founder, Czapek), Mr. Wei Koh (Founder, Revolution magazine), Mr. Ong Ban (CEO, Sincere Fine Watches), and Mr. Damien Licciardi (Chief Operating Officer, Richemont Luxury Thailand).

Also in attendance were executives from leading watch brands, including Mr. Suthin Jiramaneekul and Ms. Nitchaya Ekaraphanich, along with esteemed event partners, Ms. Suporntip Pongsachamnankit, Executive Director and Head of Card Business, UOB Thailand. The event was further honored by the presence of Ms. Chadatip Chutrakul, Chief Executive Officer, Siam Piwat Group; Ms. Caroline Murphy President – Strategic Project Development Siam Piwat Co.,Ltd.; and Ms. Thanaporn Tantiyanon, Managing Director, Siam Paragon Business Unit, who graciously welcomed all distinguished guests.

This prestigious celebration was made possible with the valued support of partners, including UOB Bank Thailand, VOSS Thailand, and Chatrium Grand Bangkok.

The evening was marked by joy and dynamism as executives from prestigious maisons mingled while enjoying captivating performances in a luxurious setting during an exclusive cocktail reception. It was truly a historic night for the luxury watch industry in Thailand and Southeast Asia — a rare gathering of the world’s most influential figures, united in celebrating the culture of timepieces at Siam Paragon.

Siam Paragon Bangkok Watch Week 2025 is a landmark luxury watch event that brings Siam Paragon together with 30 of the world’s most prestigious watch brands to celebrate the culture of timekeeping — where exquisite craftsmanship meets state-of-the-art innovation. The event presents an extraordinary showcase of artistry, heritage, and cutting-edge technology, bringing together watch connoisseurs and collectors to honor the magnificence of fine watchmaking.

This year’s edition features over 30 globally renowned maisons, including A. Lange & Söhne, Bianchet, Bvlgari, Breitling, Bovet, Boucheron, Cartier, Chopard, Franck Muller, Grand Seiko, Girard-Perregaux, H. Moser & Cie., Hublot, IWC Schaffhausen, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Jaquet Droz, Laurent Ferrier, Louis Erard, Omega, Panerai, Piaget, Tag Heuer, Tiffany & Co., Van Cleef & Arpels, Ulysse Nardin, Vacheron Constantin, and Zenith. Event highlights include:

  • The Symposium” is a premier forum dedicated to storytelling and the exchange of ideas on the culture of watchmaking. Presented by founders, executives, and master watchmakers from world-class brands, the symposium brings together industry experts to explore a wide range of captivating topics.
  • “The Exhibition” presents an extraordinary showcase of the latest, never-before-seen timepieces, unveiling them for the very first time. The exhibition features limited editions, masterpieces celebrated for their intricate mechanisms, rare creations, and private collections from world-class collectors — offering museum-quality pieces of exceptional rarity and value. The event takes place at the Hall of Fame and Hall of Mirrors, M Floor, Siam Paragon, with highlights including 15 rare and priceless timepieces, such as the Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 96 Steel, Salmon Dial, Circa 1944; the Audemars Piguet Master02 Ref. 15240SG.OO.A347CR.01, limited to just 250 pieces worldwide; and the Bvlgari Fenice Octo Roma Secret, a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.
  • “The Experience” immerses watch enthusiasts in the world of innovative and unique timepieces at the brand boutiques, featuring exclusive activities from six renowned maisons. Highlights include ZENITH’s celebration of “160 Years of Horological Milestones,” a live watchmaking demonstration by A. Lange & Söhne, a design introduction by IWC Schaffhausen, a Spring Drive lecture by a Grand Seiko expert, curated experiences from OMEGA, and an exclusive gouache session by Boucheron, all hosted at the Crystal Court, M Floor, Siam Paragon.

Watch enthusiasts are invited to experience Siam Paragon Bangkok Watch Week 2025 from today through September 28, 2025, at Siam Paragon. For more information, updates, and registration, visit www.bangkokwatchweek.com or follow Facebook: SIAMPARAGON.

Hashtag: #SiamParagonBangkokWatchWeek2025 #BangkokWatchWeek2025 #SiamParagon #LuxuryWatchDestination

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

ACEBEAM Unveils K1 EDC Flashlight with Three Light Sources

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Advertorial Desk
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SHENZHEN, China, Sept. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ACEBEAM, a leading innovator in high-performance portable lighting, recently announced the release of the K1, a compact EDC flashlight with three light sources for ultimate versatility, designed to be the perfect companion for outdoor enthusiasts and urban users alike.

The ACEBEAM K1 redefines convenience by integrating a brilliant 1,000-lumen CREE XP-LR 6500K white light LED, a precise green beam, and a 365nm UV light into a pocket-sized device.

Operational ease is at the core of the K1’s design. A dual-switch system allows users to seamlessly rotate between the three light sources via a magnetic rotary switch, while a tail switch provides instant on/off control and enables adjustment of the white and UV light settings.

Built for durability, the K1 is constructed from AL6061-T6 aluminum with a hard-anodized finish. It boasts an IP68 rating, making it dustproof, waterproof up to 2 meters for 30 minutes, and resistant to impacts from up to 1.5 meters. Weighing a mere 77.4g (2.73oz) and measuring 110mm (4.33″) in length, it is effortlessly portable with a sturdy clip for secure attachment.

Powering the K1 is an included, replaceable 14500 1000mAh battery with a built-in USB-C port for convenient recharging without an external charger. For added flexibility, the flashlight can also operate on standard AA batteries.

“Whether you’re hiking, camping, or just need a reliable light for daily tasks, the K1 is designed to meet the demand for a versatile, robust, and compact lighting tool,” said a spokesperson for ACEBEAM. “It embodies our commitment to innovation and quality.”

Upgraded Loyalty Program

Alongside the launch of the K1, ACEBEAM is proud to highlight its newly upgraded Loyalty Program. New members receive 500 points upon registration and a free gift with their first purchase. Members can progress through 11 tiers, from Iron to Legend, earning points on purchases, subscriptions, and product reviews. These points are redeemable for discounts without affecting tier status, providing clear and valuable benefits for the ACEBEAM community.

For more information on the ACEBEAM K1, please visit: ACEBEAM K1. To learn more about the enhanced Loyalty Program, visit the official page: ACEBEAM Reward Points.

About ACEBEAM

ACEBEAM was established in 2009, and its brand was founded in 2014. It focuses on high-performance portable lighting and has always been committed to promoting the development of high-power flashlights and LEP flashlight technology. For 16 years, ACEBEAM has been deeply involved in the portable lighting market, providing high-quality and highly reliable lighting tools to global users. Its products cover flashlights, headlamps, long-range flashlights, diving lights, and other categories, backed by a 10-year warranty service.

Media Contact:
Dorothy Tang
dorothy@acebeam.com

White House Says USD 100,000 H-1B Visa Fee to Be One-Time Payment

By
Thongsavanh Souvannasane
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US Suspends Immigrant Visa Processing for 75 Countries

By Daniel STUBLEN/AFP – The White House issued a major clarification Saturday, 20 September,  to its new H-1B visa policy that had rattled the tech industry, saying a USD 100,000 fee will be a “one-time” payment imposed only on new applicants.

US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, in announcing the major fee increase on 19 September, said it would be paid annually, and would apply to people seeking a new visa as well as renewals.

But White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt issued a clarification on Saturday, 20 September, hours before the new policy was to go into effect.

“This is NOT an annual fee. It’s a one-time fee that applies… only to new visas, not renewals, and not current visa holders,” she said in a social media post.

The executive order, which is likely to face legal challenges, comes into force Sunday at 12:01 am US Eastern time (0401 GMT), or 9:01 pm Saturday on the Pacific Coast.

Prior to the White House’s clarification, US companies were scrambling to figure out the implications for their foreign workers, with several reportedly warning their employees not to leave the country.

Some people who were already on planes preparing to leave the country on Friday, 19 September, de-boarded over fears they may not be allowed to re-enter the United States, the San Francisco Chronicle reported.

“Those who already hold H-1B visas and are currently outside of the country right now will NOT be charged $100,000 to re-enter,” Leavitt said.

“H-1B visa holders can leave and re-enter the country to the same extent as they normally would,” she added.

H-1B visas allow companies to sponsor foreign workers with specialized skills, such as scientists, engineers, and computer programmers, to work in the United States, initially for three years but extendable to six.

Such visas are widely used by the tech industry. Indian nationals account for nearly three-quarters of the permits allotted via lottery system each year.

The United States approved approximately 400,000 H-1B visas in 2024, two-thirds of which were renewals.

India, US business concerns

US President Donald Trump announced the change in Washington on Friday, 19 September, arguing it would support American workers.

The H-1B program “has been deliberately exploited to replace, rather than supplement, American workers with lower-paid, lower-skilled labor,” the executive order said.

Trump also introduced a USD 1 million “gold card” residency program he had previewed months earlier.

“The main thing is, we’re going to have great people coming in, and they’re going to be paying,” Trump told reporters as he signed the orders in the Oval Office.

Lutnick, who joined Trump in the Oval Office, said multiple times that the fee would be applied annually.

“The company needs to decide… is the person valuable enough to have USD 100,000 a year payment to the government? Or they should head home and they should go hire an American,” he told reporters.

Though he claimed that “all the big companies are on board,” many businesses were left confused about the details of the H-1B order.

US bank JPMorgan confirmed that a memo had been sent to its employees with H-1B visas advising them to remain in the United States and avoid international travel until further guidance was issued.

Tech entrepreneurs, including Trump’s former ally Elon Musk, have warned against targeting H-1B visas, saying that the United States does not have enough homegrown talent to fill important tech sector job vacancies.

India’s foreign ministry said the mobility of skilled talent had contributed to “innovation” and “wealth creation” in both countries and that it would assess the changes.

It said in a statement the new measure would likely have “humanitarian consequences by way of the disruption caused for families,” which it hoped would be addressed by US authorities.

© Agence France-Presse

2025 World Manufacturing Convention Wraps Up with Strong Attendance, Highlighting Accessible Innovation

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Advertorial Desk
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HEFEI, China, Sept. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 2025 World Manufacturing Convention opened on September 20, bringing together a broad international audience in Hefei, Anhui province. Participants from around the world, representing a wide spectrum of industries and backgrounds, were united by a shared goal: to advance the global manufacturing sector through open collaboration.

A key takeaway from the event was the strong consensus on a dual foundation for the industry’s future: relentless technological progress and deepened international cooperation. Christian Wulff, Honorary Chairman of the Global Alliance of SMEs, emphasized this theme, stating, “The remarkable ascent of Anhui province serves as a powerful testament to how openness, innovation, and deeper collaboration remain timeless drivers of success in industrial development.” 

Collaboration is not only becoming easier but also more essential. Christoph Ahlhaus, President of the German Federal Association of SMEs, offered a vivid example: a precision parts maker based in rural Germany can now connect directly with electric vehicle manufacturers in Hefei. Using augmented reality (AR), German engineers can perform real-time equipment debugging “on-site” at factories thousands of miles away. “Companies in Germany and Anhui—and across China—are no longer just buyers and sellers; they have become innovation partners,” Ahlhaus noted, highlighting the deepening integration of global industrial and supply chains.

Chinese firms are actively embracing this shift. In a keynote address, Yin Tongyue, Chairman of Chery Holding Group, shared the automaker’s global expansion experience. Chery’s evolution from a local company in Wuhu to a global player mirrors the broader narrative of Chinese manufacturing: steadily transcending borders and integrating worldwide resources through open cooperation. 

The convention delivered a clear message for navigating this era of technological revolution and industrial transformation: success hinges on practical cooperation. To seize the opportunities for sustainable growth, stakeholders must strengthen collaboration in key manufacturing sectors and dismantle barriers to the flow of technology, talent, and data, promoting deeper integration of industry, academia, research, and application.

As the event came to a close, the spirit of open cooperation—forged through handshakes and dialogue—is poised to remain a driving force, steering global manufacturing toward a more integrated and prosperous future. 


XAG Drones Give Brazilian Farmers the Edge Amid Unpredictable Weather

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Advertorial Desk
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BELO HORIZONTE, Brazil, Sept. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As planting season begins across Brazil, farmers are facing the dual challenge of unpredictable weather and tight labor. Irregular rainfall, sudden heatwaves and heavy storms are making the timing of seeding and crop protection more critical than ever, reinforcing the need for innovative tools that deliver both efficiency and accuracy.

For a growing number of producers, agricultural drones are now part of daily life in the field. This technology offers practical solutions to long-standing problems by saving time, reducing waste, and giving producers the flexibility to act within shrinking windows.

Bruno Oliveira manages his family’s farm in Minas Gerais, which includes 50 hectares of coffee and 250 hectares of grapes, and produces coffee, soybeans, and corn. He clearly remembers when his operation relied heavily on tractors for fertilizing and spraying. “When it used to rain, we’d sometimes have to wait two or three days before we could get the tractors in,” Bruno says. “Now with the drones from XAG, if it stops raining, we can sometimes get back out there in half an hour.” This ability to quickly adjust to changing weather conditions is becoming even more valuable as climate unpredictability grows.

Bruno first took an interest in agricultural drones during a visit to Agrishow in 2022. The precision atomization technology of the XAG P100 Pro stood out, especially after he had issues with nozzles in other equipment. “The main point was the quality, because with other options, I had problems with nozzles,” he says. The result has been more uniform droplet size and consistent crop coverage, which has allowed him to reduce water use in his spray operations from about 15 liters to 10 liters per hectare. This greater efficiency directly supports improved crop health and yields.

The drone’s design has proven ideal for Bruno’s landscape. Its autonomous operation is smart and efficient, and the foldable arms make transportation much simpler. He can now move the drone from field to field with ease and access hard-to-reach plots that would have been a challenge for heavier machinery. “What used to take a day, we now do in an hour,” he explains. This flexibility brings savings in both time and labor.

Another benefit is the reduced risk of crop damage. Bruno points out that during the harvest, “when the corns is already grown, we used to lose a little bit because the tractor would run over some of it. But with the drone, there’s no harm done to the crop.” Having the ability to apply crop protection products late in the production cycle, without risking physical loss, has led to healthier stands and better harvests.

Bruno has also started to use the XAG P100 Pro for spreading fertilizer and cover-crop grass seed. Equipped with an 80-liter granule container and the RevoCast system, the P100 Pro enables his team to finish these tasks in just minutes. This approach not only boosts operational efficiency but also prevents erosion between harvests. Protecting soil quality remains central to his approach, reflecting the multi-faceted benefits of using drones on his farm.

Switching to drone technology required Bruno to invest in new skills and new ways of working with his brother and an additional pilot. Ongoing local support, particularly from Timber, the regional XAG partner, has made the transition smooth. Bruno praised the drone’s control system, highlighting how its sophistication and ease of operation have contributed to the team’s overall satisfaction.

These changes reflect broader research from Embrapa, Brazil’s leading agricultural institute. Studies there have shown that drones can generate real savings in water usage, inputs, and labor while also improving the precision of crop applications. This is a critical advantage as Brazil moves toward more sustainable and resilient agricultural systems.

The XAG P150 agricultural drone brings greater payload and efficiency to Brazilian farms.
The XAG P150 agricultural drone brings greater payload and efficiency to Brazilian farms.

Bruno Oliveira’s story shows how embracing innovation can unlock more from every hectare. And building on the success of the P100 Pro, XAG has introduced the P150 model to the Brazilian market earlier this year. As farmers adopt the XAG P150 at scale, with its 70 kg payload and higher efficiency, they are better equipped than ever to farm smarter, adapt faster, and thrive in a changing world.

Apical Joins Industry Leaders to Launch Aceh Sustainable Palm Oil Working Group

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Advertorial Desk
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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 September 2025 – Apical joins leading industry players and Yayasan Inisiatif Dagang Hijau (YIDH), the local foundation established by IDH – The Sustainable Trade Initiative, to launch the Aceh Sustainable Palm Oil Working Group, a collaboration to advance sustainable palm oil production across Aceh province, Indonesia.

The Working Group brings together Apical, a member of the Royal Golden Eagle (RGE) group of companies founded by Sukanto Tanoto, with palm oil producers and major consumer brands like Mars Wrigley, Mondelez, Nestlé, PepsiCo and Unilever. Collectively, the companies intend to support the Governor of Aceh’s Sustainable Palm Oil Roadmap by promoting palm oil that is deforestation-free and inclusive of smallholders.

The Roadmap provides the practical backbone for this effort, setting out a balanced vision to strengthen Aceh’s economic potential while protecting forests and community rights. Priority areas include:

  • Raising smallholder productivity and incomes
  • Increasing local revenue
  • Reducing deforestation risk and restoring degraded land
  • Resolving land-related conflicts
  • Ensuring stronger protection of community rights

Apical’s Head of Sustainability, Tor Mooi See, emphasised why smallholders are central to the work: “By empowering smallholders, we embed sustainability at every level of the supply chain. We also provide ongoing support on certification to ensure sustainability is maintained over time. This continuity is crucial for smallholders to not only meet but exceed sustainability standards and improve their economic resilience.”

Apical has advanced these objectives in Aceh through its Sustainable Living Village (SLV) programme in Aceh Singkil. Working hand-in-hand with local government, partners, and villagers, SLV builds sustainable livelihoods by combining practical training, legal land support, and tree planting to create a model that benefits both people and the environment. Now in its second year, SLV has trained over 1,000 smallholders in better farming practices, issued more than 500 Cultivation Registration Certificates (STDB), and replanted 2,000 trees in restoration areas.

In parallel, the Aceh Provincial Government is translating the Roadmap into a practical Regional Action Plan (RAD). Measures include accelerating the issuance of STDBs and establishing provincial deforestation monitoring protocols, supported by a multi-stakeholder team.

Reflecting this commitment, Aceh Vice Governor Fadhlullah outlined the government’s role in supporting a deforestation-free and traceable supply chain: “The Government of Aceh is responding to strong market signals by providing a deforestation monitoring system, accelerating land legality and farmer registration, and strengthening sustainable palm oil governance in Aceh. Through the Sustainable Palm Oil Management Unit Programme (PMU-KSB), Aceh will continue to implement the Sustainable Palm Oil Roadmap and RAD with multi-stakeholder support, including global palm oil buyers.”

In a joint declaration, Working Group members agreed – at their own discretion – to align their company action plans with the Roadmap’s objectives. Importantly, members will not coordinate on purchasing decisions, commercial terms or supplier selection, nor will they share sensitive or confidential information. YIDH will facilitate the development of a voluntary, non-binding joint action plan to support local stakeholders, acting as a neutral convener rather than a commercial partner. “YIDH believes markets have the power to make trade and investment more inclusive and sustainable. We see the need for a careful balance between safeguarding the environment and ensuring livelihoods,” said YIDH Country Director Nassat Idris. “The Roadmap anchors the Aceh Government’s vision for deforestation-free, inclusive palm oil. Through this declaration, global buyers have demonstrated their support via joint and individual actions in Aceh province. This is a strong example of how business objectives can align with sustainability and inclusivity goals.”

The Working Group provides a platform for coordinated, province-wide implementation of the Roadmap, bringing together government, industry and civil society to strengthen traceability, protect forests and enhance smallholder livelihoods. The initiative also welcomes additional companies and participants across the palm oil value chain who share this vision, inviting them to join in demonstrating a sustainable and inclusive model that can be scaled and replicated beyond Aceh to other palm-oil producing regions of Indonesia.

Additional background on the Working Group and the joint declaration is available on IDH’s website here.
Hashtag: #RGE #Apical #sustainability #palm #palmoil #smallholders #Aceh #Indonesia

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

About Apical

Apical is a leading vegetable oil processor with an expanding global footprint. Our vertically integrated mid-stream refining and value-added downstream processing makes us an integral supplier that supports the needs of various industries namely food, feed, oleochemicals and renewable fuel, including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) which enables a great reduction of CO2 emissions.

With integrated assets in strategic locations spanning Indonesia, China and Spain, Apical operates numerous refineries, oleochemical plants, renewable fuel plants and kernel crushing plants. Through joint ventures and strategic partnerships, Apical also has processing and distribution operations in Brazil, India, Pakistan, Philippines, Middle East, Africa, USA and Vietnam.

Apical’s growth is built on the foundations of sustainability and transparency, and motivated by our strong belief that we can contribute to a circular economy for a more meaningful impact, even as we continue to grow our business and deliver innovative solutions to our customers.

For more information, please visit .

World Rivers Day: Agoda Highlights Asia’s Most Captivating Waterways

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Advertorial Desk
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SINGAPORE, Sept. 25, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In honor of World Rivers Day on September 25, digital travel platform Agoda unveils a curated list of must-visit river destinations across Asia. These unique waterways offer travelers unforgettable backdrops that transform with the seasons, offering ever-changing vistas and a multitude of Instagrammable photo opportunities.

More than just scenic landscapes, rivers serve as unique gateways to local life and nature. They typically host unique attractions such as night markets, festivals, and riverside cafés, offering an authentic taste of the regional culture and traditions. 

Agoda has curated a guide to breathtaking yet lesser-known river destinations sure to sail onto every traveler’s bucket list:

  1. Perfume River, Hue (Vietnam)
    The Perfume River streams past Hue’s historic monuments and lush green landscapes. Its name comes from the fragrant flowers that drift into its waters, contributing to a peaceful and romantic mood. Visitors can explore the ancient citadel, royal tombs, and pagodas that line the riverbanks, experiencing the rich history and culture of Vietnam.
  2. Pamba River, Alleppey (India): 
    Dubbed the “Venice of the East,” Alleppey is famed for its intricate network of backwaters and houseboat cruises. The landscape is adorned with coconut groves and paddy fields, offering a peaceful escape into nature. Nearby, the town of Kumarakom is home to Vembanad Lake, where travelers can observe diverse birdlife, including many migratory species, making it a haven for bird watchers.
  3. Kali Biru, Raja Ampat (Indonesia)
    In the heart of Raja Ampat, Kali Biru, meaning “Blue River,” flows through dense rainforests and is distinguished by its remarkably clear, blue waters. The surrounding region is celebrated for its rich marine biodiversity, making it a paradise for nature lovers who can enjoy breathtaking views and unique wildlife encounters.
  4. Kiso River, Gifu (Japan)
    Gliding through the scenic landscapes of Gifu, the Kiso River is renowned for its traditional cormorant fishing and picturesque boat rides. The river is bordered by forests and historic towns, including the charming former post town of Magome, part of the Nakasendo Trail. The region offers fascinating cultural immersion and resplendent seasonal displays of cherry blossoms and autumn leaves.
  5. Malacca River (Malaysia)
    The Malacca River curves through the historic city of Melaka, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The river is lined with colorful buildings and lively street art, offering a glimpse into the city’s colonial past. Travelers can enjoy a leisurely river cruise, exploring the blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences that define this cultural melting pot.
  6. Nan River, Phitsanulok (Thailand)
    The Nan River passes through the heart of Phitsanulok, a city known for its historical and cultural significance. The riverbanks are home to bustling night markets and traditional Thai temples, including the renowned Wat Phra Si Rattana Mahathat, home to the revered golden Phra Buddha Chinnarat—one of Thailand’s most exquisite Buddha images.

Krishna Rathi, Associate Vice President of Supply at Agoda, said, “Rivers have a way of connecting us to the heart of a destination. From Vietnam’s fragrant and romantic Perfume River to Indonesia’s brilliantly blue Kali Biru, each river tells its own story of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether you’re seeking adventure or tranquility, Agoda makes it easy to explore Asia’s most wonderful river destinations with unbeatable offers.”

Agoda offers over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in the same booking. Discover the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app to start planning an unforgettable river escape. Visit Agoda.com for more information.

PROPEL with Singlife Receives Two Awards at the IIC Asia Awards 2025

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Advertorial Desk
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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 September 2025 – PROPEL with Singlife, the one-stop shared services hub for financial advisory (FA) firms, added two more awards to its record at the IIC Asia Awards 2025 (“the Awards”). The Technology Integration Excellence Award and the Operational Excellence Pioneer Award recognise PROPEL’s contributions to innovation, operational efficiency, and digital transformation in the insurance industry across Asia.

PROPEL with Singlife won the "Technology Integration Excellence" and "Operational Excellence Pioneer" accolades at the IIC Asia Awards 2025.
PROPEL with Singlife won the “Technology Integration Excellence” and “Operational Excellence Pioneer” accolades at the IIC Asia Awards 2025.

The Awards, held in conjunction with the InsurInnovator Connect Asia (IIC Asia) 2025 conference, are a mark of excellence in the insurance industry, celebrating visionary leaders and pioneering organisations that are pushing boundaries and shaping the future of the region’s insurance landscape.

Since its official launch in January 2025, PROPEL has established itself as a first-in-market one-stop solution for both new financial advisory (FA) firms starting out, as well as established firms looking to scale effectively. By seamlessly integrating technology into middle-to-back-office workflows, PROPEL is redefining how FA firms operate, and enabling them to streamline processes, enhance efficiency, and deliver exceptional client service.

Steven Ong, CEO of PROPEL, said: “Winning these two industry awards is a validation of our mission to empowering FA firms with the tools and support they need to better serve their customers, and scale their businesses. PROPEL is much more than just a platform; we’re a trusted partner for FA firms to succeed in a competitive market. As it is with most new businesses, the journey hasn’t been easy, but our philosophy has always been to work hard, listen to feedback, and continuously improve. These accolades are a recognition of our efforts.”

The Technology Integration Excellence Award highlights PROPEL’s ability to integrate advanced digital tools into insurance workflows. The Operational Excellence Pioneer Award celebrates PROPEL’s success in advancing operational efficiency through a combination of its multi-tenanted platform – designed to ensure that all client firms benefit from all system upgrades and enhancements without incurring additional costs – and its modular support packages for middle-to-back-office services. PROPEL has a team of nearly 100 seasoned professionals to support its client firms in key aspects of their operations, allowing them to scale in an efficient and cost-effective manner.

The awards were presented during the IIC Asia 2025 conference held at the Singapore Suntec Exhibition & Convention Centre. The event brought together over 1,500 senior insurance executives to discuss leadership, AI, distribution, underwriting, and more, shaping the future of Asia’s insurance industry.

For more information on how PROPEL helps FA firms scale their businesses effectively, visit singlife.com/en/propel.Hashtag: #PROPELwithSinglife #PROPEL #Insurance #Awards


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

About PROPEL with Singlife

is a one-stop shared services centre under the Singlife Group, a leading homegrown financial services company. PROPEL provides financial advisory firms with an integrated digital and administrative platform that offers seamless middle to back-office support which can be scaled according to their business needs. We are committed to streamline the way financial advisory firms operate at every stage of their business and provide innovative solutions to empower financial advisers, so that they can stay ahead and focus on what matters most – their clients.

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