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Video of Thai Student Assaulting Math Teacher Goes Viral

Video of Thai Student Assaulting Math Teacher Goes Viral
This image is used only for representational purpose (photo credit: smolaw11)

A Grade 11 student in Uthai Thani, Thailand, physically assaulted his female math teacher after receiving an 18 out of 20 on a midterm exam. 

The Good Rice Alliance Awarded ‘Ae’, a top quartile ex ante rating, by BeZero Carbon

  • TGRA has partnered with smallholder farmers in India to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and generate high integrity carbon credits

NEW DELHI, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Good Rice Alliance (TGRA), which focuses on advancing sustainable rice farming in India, has received an ‘Ae’ (pronounced ‘single A’, ‘e’) ex ante rating from BeZero Carbon, a leading independent carbon ratings agency. Through TGRA, Bayer, a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of agriculture and healthcare, in collaboration with GenZero, a Temasek-owned investment platform dedicated to accelerating decarbonization globally, Shell Energy India Private Limited, a subsidiary of Shell Plc and investor in nature-based solutions, are committed to reducing Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions through sustainable agricultural practices.

Scientific measurement of GHG emissions in a rice field by The Good Rice Alliance
Scientific measurement of GHG emissions in a rice field by The Good Rice Alliance

The ‘Ae’ rating reflects the project’s high standalone carbon rating (‘a’) combined with a very high likelihood of successful project execution (‘aa’).

A standalone Carbon ex ante of ‘a’ is comparable to the highest rated ex post Soil Carbon & Agriculture credits. Receiving an ‘Ae’, a top-quartile rating confirms a high likelihood that each TGRA credit will deliver one ton of CO2e avoidance.  

Speaking on the rating achieved, Suhas Joshi, India Carbon Initiative Lead at Bayer said, “We are incredibly proud of this milestone. The Ae rating is not only a validation of TGRA’s scientific and operational rigor, but also a testament to the collective commitment of our alliance. We are committed to establishing a nature-based carbon market quality benchmark, by implementing Total Quality Management principles in the agricultural space. Through TGRA, we leverage high-quality management practices and robust measurement tools to help generate high-integrity carbon credits by helping farmers reduce emissions, conserve water, and unlock new income streams while reinforcing a future-ready farming ecosystem. For carbon credit offtakers worldwide, this represents a rare opportunity to support decarbonization at scale while uplifting smallholder communities.”

BeZero is an independent carbon ratings agency boasting a 180+ strong team made up of climate scientists, geospatial experts, data scientists, financial analysts and policy specialists. BeZero’s ratings are based on a rigorous analysis of various factors, including additionality, carbon accounting, and permanence risks, providing transparency and building trust in carbon markets. Higher BeZero ratings are correlated with higher prices and increased demand for carbon credits.

BeZero Carbon’s ex ante assessment evaluates TGRA’s exceptional credibility across five key categories: additionality, carbon accounting, permanence, project execution, and safeguards. The ‘Ae’ certification offers assurance of delivery of impact-driven, high-integrity credits that meet the highest transparency and quality standards.

Since May 2023, TGRA has partnered with smallholder farmers across thirteen Indian states to implement Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) and Direct Seeded Rice (DSR). As of October 2024, TGRA has enrolled more than 12,000 farmers in the program, covering 35,000 hectares of farmland, reducing methane emissions equivalent to nearly 1,20,000 tonnes of carbon emissions per year. Underpinned by best-in-class on ground and digital Measurement, Reporting and Verification (MRV) and secured land and carbon rights, TGRA is well equipped to play a pivotal role in GHG reductions in agriculture.

Currently, TGRA covers major rice-producing states in the country, like Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Haryana, Karnataka, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Assam, Uttarakhand, Jharkhand, and Maharashtra. On average, it takes over 1 million litres of water to produce one ton of rice. TGRA, through the implementation of climate-smart practices such as Alternate Wetting and Drying (AWD) and Direct Seeded Rice (DSR), can reduce water consumption by up to 30% without impacting yields. This equates to over 12,50,000 million litres of water savings across 35,000 hectares per season in total, the equivalent of 330 billion US gallons. TGRA is also armed with a stringent Quality Management System, farmer training, support and hand holding mechanism and a Monitoring, Report and Verification (MRV) mechanism which are in place to help maintain program integrity.

Paddy rice cultivation is responsible for approximately 10% of global methane emissions, a potent greenhouse gas with a global warming potential over 27 times that of carbon dioxide. Rice farms occupy 15% of the global farm area, equivalent to more than 150 million hectares worldwide. With a keen focus on sustainability, the alliance is closely aligned with UN’s Sustainable Development Goals and plans to work together with smallholder farmers from the grassroots to drive maximum co-benefits and mitigate climate change.

Photo: https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/bezero_tgra_bayer.jpg

Joyday Ice Cream Won World Dairy International Award and Demonstrated Global Competitiveness with Peak-season Marketing Success in Indonesia

JAKARTA, Indonesia, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Joyday, an ice cream brand owned by Yili Group, enjoyed a successful summer in 2025. The brand not only won prestigious international awards but also achieved outstanding results with its peak-season marketing campaign in Indonesia. These accomplishments highlight its innovation and operational strength in global markets.

Garnering Global Awards for Product Innovation

Joyday earned international acclaim at the 2025 World Dairy Innovation Awards. Its Crunchy Choco Lava Ice Cream was awarded as the winner of “Ice Cream/Frozen Yogurt” category. Joyday Crunchy Choco Lava Ice Cream seamlessly blends the distinct textures of five different types of chocolate, featuring a rich, molten chocolate lava core that delivers a delightfully surprising sensory experience. It successfully redefined the chocolate stick ice cream category in the Indonesian market with its breakthrough innovation of product structure. The other two Joyday products, Crunchy Vanilla Cookies and Vanilla Berry Sandwich, were also named finalists in the ice-cream category. Recognized as one of the most prestigious awards in the global dairy industry, the evaluation of World Dairy Innovation Awards was based on core criteria such as product innovation, market relevance, and quality consistency. Its recognition of Joyday underscores the brand’s commitment to innovation and its deep understanding of consumer preferences worldwide.


Boosting Popularity in Indonesia with Peak-season Marketing Campaign

As a brand deeply committed to the Indonesian market, Joyday is dedicated to creating joyful moments for local consumers. These years, the brand launched exciting football-themed campaigns in partnership with Manchester City Football Club, Portugal National Football Team, Argentina National Football Team. The marketing campaign of this year was bundling consumer engagement with the ice-cream stick promotion. The consumers can participate the buy-win campaign by purchasing limited-edition football-packaged Joyday ice creams. The prizes ranged from an iPhone 15 to the grand prize of UK trip, including a visit to Manchester City F.C.’s home stadium. By tapping into Indonesians’ passion for football and prize draws, the campaign has successfully delivered a memorable and interactive experience for consumers.


Expanding Global Influence through Strategic Brand Building

As a key part of Yili Group’s international expansion strategy, Joyday has demonstrated a long-standing commitment to the global market. The brand has steadily increased its influence through a variety of marketing initiatives. Through collaborations with sports teams, partnerships with brand ambassadors, and on-campus events, Joyday has successfully fostered deep connections with local consumers and built strong brand recognition.

Joyday has established extensive coverage across Indonesia’s major retail channels. Consumers can easily find its products in a wide range of locations, including traditional stores, supermarkets, convenience stores, and restaurants. Having successfully solidified its market share in Southeast Asia, the brand is now accelerating its expansion into the Middle East. Joyday has already built a network of over 3,000 points of sale in Saudi Arabia, which enables the brand to sell more than 500,000 ice cream bars monthly in the local market.

Looking ahead, fueled by Yili group’s global network, Joyday is committed to more international markets by bring innovative products and joyful brand experience to the local consumers.

As a leading Chinese dairy company and one of the top five players in the global dairy market, Yili Group is driven by innovation and committed to expanding its international presence. It offers a diverse portfolio of products, including liquid milk, milk powder, yogurt, and ice cream. Now operating in over 60 countries and regions, the company is dedicated to providing high-quality, healthy food and services to consumers worldwide. The international success of its Joyday brand, which has achieved significant overseas market penetration, vividly demonstrates Yili’s vision of “World Integrally Sharing Health” and highlights the Chinese dairy industry’s commitment to delivering health value through superior products across the global supply chain.

The Westin Surabaya Introduces Wellness Oasis: A Journey of Mindful Discoveries

SURABAYA, Indonesia, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On Saturday, 9 August 2025 The Westin Surabaya proudly unveils its latest guest experience: Wellness Oasis, a mindfulness-based wellness program thoughtfully designed to support mental health, inner balance, and rejuvenation. In response to today’s growing healthcare constraints and the universal longing for calm, this initiative embraces the rise of wellness tourism by offering guests space for mindful learning and inner renewal. Through grounding rituals such as mindfulness meditation, nature connection, and creative expression, guests are gently guided in how to practice mindfulness. In line with the Indonesian Government’s initiative to position health and wellness tourism as a national travel trend, The Westin Surabaya continues to expand its facilities that support guests’ mental well-being and physical fitness.

Wellness Oasis - Meditation Corner
Wellness Oasis – Meditation Corner

According to a study by the Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia, wellness tourism in the country encompasses eight key dimensions: fitness, healthy eating, healthcare, spa & beauty, mind-body balance, spirituality & connection, self-development, and eco-tourism & adventure. Rooted in Westin’s pillars of Move Well, Feel Well, and Play Well, this experience nurtures emotional well-being while offering a serene path to presence, clarity, and holistic healing.

Guests are invited to embark on a self-guided journey through six thoughtfully designed wellness zones, each crafted to nurture both body and mind:

  1. Sensory Walk – Experience the grounding power of nature. Guests are encouraged to remove their footwear and walk barefoot along a dedicated path featuring materials like sand, river stones, and grass. This mindful stroll invites guests to slow down, awaken their senses, and reconnect with the present moment.
  2. Meditation Corner – A serene nook offering quiet solitude. Guests are encouraged to disconnect from distractions and reconnect with their inner selves. Whether through reflection on the past, mindfulness in the present, or envisioning the future.
  3. Postcard Painting – A creative and therapeutic space where guests can express gratitude or emotion through art. Doodle over existing sketches or create a design from scratch, then take the postcard home and share it with special someone.
  4. Detox Box – An invitation to unplug and connect meaningfully. Take time and set aside from any digital devices and join in favor of playful human connection through selections of classic board games.
  5. Mindful Photography – Discover joy in the little things. Explore the scenic corners of The Westin Surabaya and capture moments that spark happiness. Whether it’s a picturesque and playful shadow art, a sparkling reflection, or a whimsical cloud shape.
  6. Gratitude Nest – A peaceful reflection space where guests can write down moments of thankfulness, contributing to a collective spirit of positivity and presence.

In today’s fast-paced world, true luxury lies in the ability to pause, breathe, and be present,” said Denny Ristyanto, Multi-Property General Manager of The Westin Surabaya and Four Points by Sheraton Surabaya, Pakuwon Indah. “The Wellness Oasis reflects our commitment to helping guests not just stay well—but thrive in every aspect of their journey.”

Whether seeking quiet introspection or joyful discovery, the Wellness Oasis encourages every guest to explore, express, and embrace personal well-being in meaningful and lasting ways.

For more information and room reservation visit www.westinsurabaya.com or call at +62-31-29710000. Follow @westinsurabaya on social media for more updates and upcoming promotion.

About Westin® Hotels & Resorts

Westin Hotels & Resorts, hospitality’s global leader in wellness for more than a decade, empowers guests to transcend the rigors of travel while on the road through the brand’s pillars of well-being: Sleep Well, Eat Well, and Move Well. At more than 240 hotels and resorts in over 40 countries and territories, guests can benefit from distinct wellness experiences including the brand’s iconic and award-winning Heavenly® Bed, signature WestinWORKOUT® offerings such as its 24/7 Fitness Studios, WestinWORKOUT Routes, and its versatile Gear Lending program, delicious and nutritious menu offerings on their Eat Well menu, and more. For more information, please visit www.westin.com and stay connected on X, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Westin is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

About Marriott Bonvoy®

Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s award-winning travel platform, connects travelers to the people, places, and passions they love through an extraordinary collection of hotels and experiences worldwide. The platform features over 30 hotel brands and 10,000 destinations, including the largest collection of luxury offerings, distinctive boutique properties, premium home rentals, and more, providing renowned hospitality across the globe. With unrivaled access to the best in entertainment, culinary, sports, outdoor adventure, arts, culture, and more, Marriott Bonvoy offers transformative travel experiences that leave a lasting impression.

Marriott Bonvoy membership is free and unlocks unique benefits including the ability to earn points through travel and everyday activities, like purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for free stays, experiences and more. Visit marriottbonvoy.com for more information and download the Marriott Bonvoy app here. Travelers can connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook.

Wellness Oasis - Gratitude Nest
Wellness Oasis – Gratitude Nest

Wellness Oasis - Sensory Walk
Wellness Oasis – Sensory Walk

Agridence Transitions to Founder-Led Governance, Secures Global Investment to Accelerate Multi-Commodity Compliance Platform

Additional funding allows Agridence to better deliver its traceability modules and ESG solutions across agri-commodity sectors globally.


SINGAPORE Media OutReach Newswire – 13 August 2025 – Agridence Pte. Ltd. (“Agridence”), a Singapore-based technology leader in digital agri-commodity supply chains, today announced a funding round led by Cercano Management and supported by returning strategic investors EXEO Innovation Fund and Provident. This will empower Agridence to rapidly scale its multi-commodity compliance platform to help its customers by tackling industry-wide challenges such as supply chain opacity, sustainability risks, and fragmented smallholder networks.

CEO Gerald Tan, who led Agridence’s development since its inception in 2018, has invested additional capital to solidify his position as founder and the single largest individual shareholder of the company. This transition from a corporate venture-built startup to a founder owned and led enterprise underscores Tan’s commitment to delivering value to Agridence’s customers.

“This funding marks a pivotal new chapter for Agridence. We are immensely grateful for the foundational support from our early corporate shareholders; their backing was instrumental during our startup phase and crucial in building the robust platform we have today. Now, as we mature, embracing a founder-led model is key to unlocking greater agility and neutrality. That’s why this shift isn’t just about capital; it’s fundamentally about ownership alignment and direct accountability,” said Gerald Tan, CEO and Founder of Agridence. “The modular traceability infrastructure we built for natural rubber is now powering compliance for palm oil, cocoa, and beyond, proving these challenges are universal across agri-commodities, and we are now better positioned than ever to solve them.”

Why This Matters: Neutrality Meets Regulatory Urgency

The shift to an independent, founder-led model provides better alignment and allows Agridence to address a critical industry need for a truly neutral technology platform that serves all stakeholders without corporate bias.

Southeast Asia is a key source and integral region in the global agri-commodities supply chain. A platform like Agridence that applies technology while working with local stakeholders for a more transparent, sustainable, and responsible sourcing is imperative for the industry. With this additional capital and new model, we see immense potential in Agridence, especially so being independently led by a local founder who has an operating track record within the rubber sector and has a team with deep sector know-how and local knowledge,” said Yu Minjie, Managing Director at Cercano Management.

From Niche to Multi-Commodity Expansion

Agridence has evolved from its roots in digitizing physical natural rubber trades to delivering a comprehensive, multi-commodity platform for global MNCs and industry associations. Recent milestones include:

  • Natural Rubber: The Global Platform for Sustainable Natural Rubber (GPSNR), whose members represent about 50% of the global market, uses Agridence’s reporting platform for annual sustainability data submissions.
  • Palm Oil: Agridence powers the RSPO Certification, Trade and Traceability System (prisma), supporting RSPO Certified Palm Oil trades and Sustainable Palm Oil Credits. This initiative went live in February 2025, with nearly 20,000 users expected on the system.
  • Coconut: As the technology partner for the Sustainable Coconut Partnership’s SCP Links platform, Agridence is simplifying sustainability reporting, digitizing audits, and increasing transparency.
  • Cocoa: The company is driving smallholder inclusion through mapping programs across Africa.

Interest is also growing in coffee, cashew, sugarcane, and other sectors. The new funding will accelerate Agridence’s go-to-market strategy, supporting entry into new commodity verticals and geographic markets through strategic partnerships and acquisitions.

“Our biggest differentiator is our team’s deep and diverse agri-commodity background,” Gerald Tan added. “Trust is everything in this business. By leveraging our relationships, domain expertise, and technology innovations, we deliver proven regulatory and risk frameworks that solve our customers’ real pain points. We know the challenges because we’ve lived them and our partners trust us to solve them.”

“Agridence has proven its capability to scale across multiple commodities and has earned the trust of global corporates, MNCs and industry associations. With momentum building in new commodities and geographies, the company is poised for exciting growth. We are proud to back the Agridence team as they enter this next chapter and deliver measurable impact across global supply chains,” said Lim Swee Yong, CEO of EXEO Innovation Fund Management.

Hashtag: #investment #impact #globalagrisupplychains #multicommoditysolution #traceability #governance


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

About Agridence

Agridence is a Singapore headquartered agri-tech platform that digitises global agri-commodity supply chains to deliver end-to-end traceability, ESG compliance, and sustainability reporting. Our cloud-native, API-ready software combines AI analytics, geospatial mapping and mobile application data capture to monitor natural rubber, palm oil, cocoa, coconut and other crops end-to-end.

Multinational companies, traders, processors and smallholders rely on Agridence to be compliant with the European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), RSPO, GPSNR and other certification and assurance models. By embedding technology, trust and transparency at scale, we help the agri-commodity sector reduce deforestation risk and build resilient, low-carbon, socially responsible supply chains.

The Agridence ecosystem unlocks:

  • Real time supply chain transparency and chain-of-custody tracking
  • Automated environmental, social and governance (ESG) risk analysis
  • Smallholder onboarding and digital payment workflows
  • API integrations with ERP, trading and certification systems

By turning complex compliance into competitive advantage, Agridence helps enterprises de-risk sourcing, protect forests, and build a more resilient, sustainable agriculture ecosystem.

Discover our agri-commodity compliance platform at , email info@agridence.com, or follow us on LinkedIn at.

About Cercano Management

Cercano Management is a multi-family office that provides investment advisory and other services to select business owners and their families, foundations, charitable organizations, and related entities. Headquartered in Bellevue, Washington, Cercano manages over US$10BN in global assets as of December 2024 across venture capital, private equity, private credit and public equity strategies. Cercano’s Asia headquarters in Singapore focuses on early-stage and private investments and has invested in 30 companies in the region since its inception in July 2019.

Avive Health to host Queensland’s first Empax clinic in landmark mental health partnership with Emyria

BRISBANE, Australia, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Avive Health (“Avive”), an Australian-owned private mental health provider, has announced a major national partnership with Emyria Limited (ASX: EMD), marking a significant milestone in the evolution of evidence-based, reimbursable mental health treatment across Australia.

Avive delivers inpatient, day program and outpatient psychiatric care across Australia’s eastern seaboard, with a strong focus on trauma-informed, patient-centred models that combine clinical rigor with therapeutic innovation. The organisation supports voluntary adult patients through a range of tailored programs, including stabilisation, anxiety and mood disorder treatment, dual diagnosis, detoxification, veterans and emergency services personal care, as well as virtual telehealth psychiatry.

Under the agreement, Avive’s Windsor hospital in Brisbane, “Avive Clinic Brisbane”, will become the home of Queensland’s first Empax clinic – a psychiatrist-led service designed to support patients living with PTSD and treatment-resistant depression through structured, multi-modal care that includes psychiatrist oversight, psychotherapy, pharmacotherapy, assisted therapies and care coordination. The Brisbane Empax clinic is expected to open later this year.

For Queenslanders living with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and treatment-resistant depression, the new Brisbane-based Empax clinic represents increased access to innovative, evidence-based care delivered in a safe, structured hospital environment. The service is designed to meet the growing demand for advanced mental health support, close to home.

This initiative is part of a broader national rollout of Emyria’s Empax model, with Avive the first location to deliver the service in Queensland and on Australia’s eastern seaboard. The agreement also includes first right of refusal for future Empax clinics within Avive’s facilities in Victoria and South Australia, where demand for mental health services continues to rise.

Mark Sweeney, Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Avive, applauded the partnership:

“This partnership underscores our ambition to lead the way in innovative, accessible and outcomes-driven mental health care,” said Mark Sweeney, co-founder and co-CEO of Avive Health. “We’re proud to support the delivery of reimbursable, psychiatrist-led care programs that align with the evolving needs of patients, clinicians and funders.”

The agreement positions Avive as a key clinical partner in scaling new models of care that are safe, structured and data-informed – while reinforcing its growing national footprint in inpatient, day patient, outpatient and virtual, telehealth mental health services.

Designed for scalability, the partnership enables Emyria to deliver its Empax protocols within Avive’s licensed hospital setting – supporting safe, compliant delivery of innovative therapies in a high-quality care environment. This follows Emyria’s recent funding agreement with Medibank, which underpins the delivery of Empax services for eligible members.

“This is an important step forward for patients seeking specialised trauma and depression treatment options,” said Mr Sweeney. “By combining our infrastructure and clinical capability with Emyria’s model, we’re helping to make advanced care options more accessible, both safely and at scale.”

With one in eleven Australians experiencing PTSD in their lifetime, and growing demand for treatment-resistant depression pathways, the partnership represents a timely advancement in the national mental health response.

Greg Hutchinson, Executive Chairman of Emyria, commented on the partnership:

“Our partnership with Avive marks a significant step forward in making advanced, evidence-based care for PTSD and treatment-resistant depression more accessible to patients in Queensland and beyond. By combining Emyria’s innovative Empax model with Avive’s high-quality clinical infrastructure, we can deliver personalised, psychiatrist-led care safely and at scale.

“It also builds on the strong momentum from our recent Medibank agreement and demonstrates how clinical and funding partnerships can work together to expand access to new care models that meet the needs of patients, clinicians, and payers alike.”

The Avive–Emyria agreement reaffirms both organisations’ commitment to delivering better outcomes for patients through collaboration, clinical leadership and data-backed innovation.

MEDIA BACKGROUNDER

About Avive Health
Avive Health is an Australian-owned private mental health services provider with specialist hospitals, day programs and outpatient services located in Brisbane (QLD), Byron Bay (NSW) and on the Mornington Peninsula (VIC), supported by Cloud Clinic telehealth psychiatry nationwide. The company specialises in treating mood disorders, anxiety, trauma, substance use, dual diagnosis and neurodevelopmental conditions including ADHD.

Avive combines strong clinical governance with innovative models of care, including accelerated TMS, robotic and assisted therapies, short-stay stabilisation programs and virtual psychiatric services. All care is trauma-informed, patient-centred and supported by leading-edge technology, enabling safer, more personalised and outcomes-driven mental health treatment.

Avive Health currently operates 2 private mental health hospitals – Avive Clinic Brisbane (60 beds) and Avive Clinic Mornington Peninsula (63 beds).

About Emyria and Empax
Emyria Limited (ASX: EMD) is a data-driven clinical services and drug development company creating scalable care models for patients with unmet needs. Its Empax clinic model is a multi-disciplinary care program designed to treat conditions such as PTSD and treatment-resistant depression, incorporating psychiatrist oversight, therapy, and eligible assisted therapies.

Partnership overview

  • Location: Avive Clinic Brisbane, Windsor, Queensland
  • Clinic model: Empax – structured, psychiatrist-led program for PTSD and trauma-resistant depression
  • Delivery: Avive (hospital infrastructure and operations) and Emyria (clinical protocols and oversight)
  • Launch date: Expected Q4 2025
  • Future rights: Avive holds first right of refusal for future Empax clinics in Victoria and South Australia

Why this matters

  • First in Queensland and Australia’s eastern seaboard
  • Funded access for eligible patients
  • Delivered in a licensed private mental health hospital setting
  • Demand-driven: 1 in 11 Australians affected by PTSD
  • National expansion pathway through Avive Health

Media assets available

  • Virtual tours of hospital facilities
  • Site images (Brisbane hospital exterior, interiors)

Interviews available on request

  • Mark Sweeney, Co-Founder and Co-CEO, Avive Health
  • Greg Hutchinson, Executive Chair, Emyria

 

Daewoong Therapeutics Microneedle Patch Achieves Best-in-Class Bioavailability, Proving the Strength of Its Drug-Delivery Platform

  • More than 80% relative bioavailability compared with injectable obesity therapy, well above the roughly 30% reported for existing microneedle patches and setting a new global benchmark
  • A potential game changer that addresses both the pain of injections and the low efficiency of oral formulations
  • In the obesity treatment market, delivery technology is expected to be the decisive factor shaping future leaders

SEOUL, South Korea, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Daewoong Pharmaceutical (Co-CEOs Seong-Soo Park and Chang-Jae Lee) and Daewoong Therapeutics (CEO Bok-Ki Kang) announced that their proprietary semaglutide microneedle patch achieved more than 80%relative bioavailability compared to the injectable formulation in a pilot human pharmacokinetic study.

A magnified view (6.7×) of the microneedle patch developed by Daewoong Therapeutics
A magnified view (6.7×) of the microneedle patch developed by Daewoong Therapeutics

This was based on the healthy volunteer study using semaglutide microneedle patch using Daewoong Therapeutics’ CLOPAM® (CLOsed Packed Aero-pressured Microneedle) drug-delivery platform. The study directly compared delivery efficiency with semaglutide subcutaneous injection.

In the trial, 70 healthy adults received single dose of either a semaglutide microneedle patch or a subcutaneous injection. Plasma concentrations were measured and then compared with results from semaglutide subcutaneous injection under the same conditions. After adjusting to equivalent dose, the patch showed more than 80%relative bioavailability compared with injection.

This result is the highest reported for a microneedle patch with the same active ingredient, far exceeding the approximately 30 percent achieved by existing patches. It also showed around 160 times higher bioavailability than semaglutide oral tablet.

Therapeutic plasma levels were maintained for one week, supporting the potential for once-weekly dosing with a single high-load patch. The exposure profile was comparable to that of the injectable counterpart, which strengthens the commercial prospects for a patch-based obesity treatment.

Technology as the Decisive Factor in the Obesity Market

According to Grand View Research, the global obesity therapeutics market is valued at 15.9 billion US dollars in 2024 and is projected to grow to 60.5 billion US dollars by 2030. Currently, therapeutic and safety advantages in the GLP-1 drug class are limited, and experts expect Experts expect delivery technologies improving both bioavailability and patient convenience will be the factor that determines future market leaders. Microneedle patches are attracting attention because they address two key limitations of current therapies: pain of injections and low drug delivery efficiency of oral formulations.

While semaglutide oral tablet is available on the market, it has very low bioavailability and requires complex medication regimen, such as fasting before dosing, limiting water intake, and avoiding co-administration with other drugs for chronic patients potentially lowering adherence. A once-weekly microneedle patch offers a simpler, needle-free option that could be used by a wider range of patients, including those who avoid injections.

Daewoong’s Microneedle Technology Innovation Leading the Global Market

The results were made possible by Daewoong Therapeutics’ patented CLOPAM® microneedle platform technology, a dissolving-type microneedle technology designed for precise, skin-based drug delivery. The platform uses pressurized drying and hermetic packaging to improve drug uniformity and stability, allowing accurate dosing with minimal contamination risk. CLOPAM® currently has 52 patent filings worldwide and is positioning to be one of Daewoong’s leading technologies.

Unlike other injectable products containing semaglutide that require cold-chain storage, Daewoong’s patches remain stable at room temperature, which can reduce distribution costs. They also help cut down on medical waste from syringes and needles, aligning with sustainability goals in healthcare.

Based on these results, Daewoong Therapeutics is planning to broaden the collaborative initiatives to the global market via technology licensing, co-development, and out-licensing to prepare for commercialization.

“The microneedle patch must achieve not only high bioavailability but also a drug load sufficient for therapeutic effect,” said Bok-Ki Kang, CEO of Daewoong Therapeutics. “In this study, we incorporated a high dose of semaglutide into a single patch and showed the potential for once-weekly application. This overcomes a key limitation of previous microneedle approaches and provides a strong foundation for global technology transfer and commercialization.”

“Microneedle formats have long promised better adherence, but high-dose delivery has been a challenge,” said Seong-Soo Park, CEO of Daewoong Pharmaceutical. “This work is the first to overcome that barrier. We plan to expand microneedle technology to a wide range of biologics to lead the global platform market.”

About Daewoong Pharmaceutical

Daewoong Pharmaceutical (KRX: 069620.KS), established in 1945, is a global pharmaceutical company headquartered in South Korea. The company develops, manufactures, and markets innovative medicines and healthcare solutions with the mission to improve quality of life worldwide. Daewoong specializes in treatments for intractable and rare diseases, supported by in-house research and development, open innovation, and advanced manufacturing capabilities.

Recent achievements include the development and approval of novel drugs for gastroesophageal reflux disease (Fexuprazan) and Type 2 diabetes (Enavogliflozin) in consecutive years. The company is also developing a first-in-class oral anti-fibrotic agent for idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (Bersiporocin), which has received both orphan drug designation and Fast Track status from the US FDA.

About Daewoong Therapeutics

Daewoong Therapeutics Inc., is a subsidiary of Daewoong Group located in South Korea. The company is focused on developing novel drug delivery systems including the dissolving microneedle platform, CLOPAM®. CLOPAM® is currently being applied to various fields including obesity/metabolic diseases and others with aims to improve patient convenience and medication adherence.

Happiness is the new brand currency: 8 in 10 Asia Pacific consumers rely on brands for unique, transformative experiences

  • Younger generations in Asia Pacific Millennials (89%) and Gen Z (86%) are driving the shift towards experiential brand engagement in the transformation economy
  • 60% of respondents in Asia Pacific prioritise rewards that strengthen ties with family and friends over self-fulfilment
  • Brands can become powerful drivers of customer happiness by providing access to transformative experiences that bridge the gap between the world they live in and their aspirations.

SINGAPORE, Aug. 13, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Collinson International, a global leader in the provision of airport experiences, loyalty and customer engagement solutions, today released its new Asia Pacific (APAC) research titled “2025 Asia Pacific Consumer Happiness Report: How to Generate Lifetime Customer Value in a Transformation Economy”. Surveying over 4,000 respondents across eight markets in Asia Pacific and conducted in partnership with renowned behavioural psychologist Dr. William von Hippel, the report explores the role of brands in driving consumer happiness in today’s transformation economy where the pursuit of happiness is becoming a defining priority. Findings reveal that brands have an opportunity to become powerful drivers of happiness, with customers increasingly turning to loyalty rewards and benefits to access unique, transformative experiences.   

“Consumers expectations for how they find satisfaction from brands have evolved. In today’s transformation economy, consumers are drawn to experiences that enrich their lives far beyond basic consumption — experiences that nurture connection, inspire personal growth and help bridge the gap between the world they live in and their aspirations,” said Rohan Bhalla, Vice President of Business Solutions for Asia Pacific at Collinson International. “This transcends rational rewards or simple engagement, delivering true meaningful moments — whether it is travelling to see their favourite band perform live or attending a global sports tournament.” This shift is well under way in APAC, where 81% of respondents rely on brand rewards for unique and exclusive experiences. Younger Millennial (89%) and Gen Z (86%) generations resonate strongly, and both demonstrate a clear preference for experiential activities in recent years.

66% of APAC respondents also reported being satisfied with the rewards and benefits they receive from brands. Millennials (72%) indicated the highest levels of happiness, followed by Gen Zs (67%), Gen Xs (65%), and Boomers (56%). These insights signal a clear opportunity for brands to become powerful drivers of consumer happiness. By providing access to otherwise unreachable experiences, brands can build deeper emotional bonds, and in turn strengthen brand affinity and lasting loyalty.

Happiness is the new brand currency

When brands contribute to their happiness, consumers intentionally and positively engage with them. The top actions respondents in APAC take include consistently purchasing from the same brand (46%); trying new products from brands they already use (43%); as well as recommending a brand to others (42%).

While brand-driven happiness influences positive consumer behaviour, loyalty manifests differently across generations. Older respondents, particularly Gen Xs (49%) and Boomers (47%), demonstrate higher brand loyalty through consistent purchasing. In contrast, younger generations show loyalty by engaging beyond buying: 37% of Gen Zs and 40% of Millennials interact with brands on social media, compared to 31% of Gen X and 22% of Boomers. Notably, Gen Z (22%) is also more likely to defend a brand against criticism compared to any other age group.

Connection and self-fulfilment are essential drivers of happiness

Drawing from his latest work, The Social Paradox, Dr. William von Hippel, renowned psychologist, author and expert on human behaviour, explained, “Connection is the innate human need to bond with others, belong to groups and form meaningful relationships. Autonomy refers to the need to make one’s own choices and pursue individual goals for self-fulfilment and development. At its core, consumer happiness is shaped by a balancing of these basic yet fundamentally opposing needs.”

Survey respondents highlighted that brand rewards enhancing connection and self-fulfilment were important contributors to their happiness. The top three most important rewards to respondents in APAC include: extended perks for family and friends (20%); health and well-being benefits (18%); personal elite status (15%).

However, respondents distinctly prefer rewards enhancing connection over autonomy, with 60% valuing rewards that strengthen family and friendship ties, over rewards enhancing personal fulfilment. This preference grows with age: 69% of Boomers in APAC value rewards that enhance connection over self-fulfilment — an increase from 56% among Gen Z. According to Dr. von Hippel, this trend reflects differing life stages, where younger individuals prioritise personal development before shifting focus to connections and relationships as they age. Amid growing concerns of declining happiness and rising levels of loneliness, particularly among the younger generations, brands can make an impactful difference to the lives of consumers through shared, transformative experiences.

Brand engagement and loyalty in the age of purpose

The transformation economy is bringing significant opportunities for brands to provide meaningful, life-changing experiences that earn consumer loyalty. This evolving landscape offers an opportunity for brands to redefine their value, addressing core human needs like connection and personal fulfilment to foster deeper engagement and lasting happiness for consumers.

“To truly achieve success in the transformation economy, brands must become catalysts of consumer happiness,” said Rohan Bhalla, Vice President of Business Solutions for Asia Pacific at Collinson International. “This means moving beyond traditional loyalty strategies to deliver unique experiences that not only resonate with the distinct needs of every segment and market, but also bring greater value and enrich customer lives.”

Staying ahead of the growing travel momentum in Asia and the evolving needs of consumers, Collinson International has expanded its network of airport lounges and travel experiences in Asia Pacific by 16% over the last 12 months (May 2024 to May 2025). Today, there are close to 750 airport lounges and travel experiences within Collinson International’s Priority Pass network in APAC, and over 1,700 airport lounges and travel experiences globally.

To view the full ‘2025 Asia Pacific Consumer Happiness Report: How to Generate Lifetime Customer Value in a Transformation Economy’, please click here.

Methodology

Commissioned by Collinson International, this research study was conducted by Milieu Insight, surveying over 4,000 respondents from 23 April to 13 May 2025. Respondents span eight Asia-Pacific markets – Singapore, Indonesia, Thailand, India, South Korea, Japan, Hong Kong SAR, and Australia – with approximately 500 individuals surveyed in each market. Age and gender-based sample quotas ensured demographic representativeness in each country.

About Collinson International

Collinson International is the global, privately-owned company dedicated to helping the world to travel with ease and confidence.  We work with the world’s leading payment networks, over 1,400 banks, 90 airlines and 20 hotel groups worldwide. We deliver market-leading airport experiences, loyalty and customer engagement, and insurance solutions for over 400 million end consumers. 

Collinson International is the operator of Priority Pass, the world’s original and leading airport experiences programme. Travellers can access a network of over 1,700 lounges and travel experiences, including dining, retail, sleep and spa, in 725 airports in 145 countries, helping to elevate the journey into something special.