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Forvis Mazars Partners with EcoOnline in Singapore, Strengthening Sustainability & ESG Reporting

LONDON / SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 September 2025 – Forvis Mazars, a leading international audit, tax and advisory firm, today announced a strategic partnership in Singapore with EcoOnline, a global provider of safety and sustainability software. This partnership will further enable Forvis Mazars and its clients to adopt EcoOnline’s advanced environmental, social, and governance (ESG) solution, enhancing the firm’s own suite of sustainability reporting and assurance services with a powerful, science-based technology tool.

This partnership is launched as Singapore companies have an extended timeline to navigate mandatory climate-related reporting standards from the Singapore Exchange (SGX) and the Accounting and Corporate Regulatory Authority (ACRA). It also provides a timely solution for businesses aligning with the ambitious goals of the Singapore Green Plan 2030 and its target of net-zero by 2050.

EcoOnline’s ESG software will directly support and enhance Forvis Mazars’ established sustainability services by providing clients with a robust tool for data management, calculation and reporting. With the timeline extended for most non-Straits Times Index (STI) companies, organisations can evaluate gaps and build robust capabilities and capacity to manage reporting challenges.

Key Forvis Mazars services to be augmented by the solution include:

  • Framework reporting advisory: Streamlining the collection and analysis of ESG data for global and regional reporting, fully aligned with Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), Global Reporting Initiative (GRI), Task Force on Climate-related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) and other leading frameworks and standards
  • Climate risk analytics: Eliminating manual work around researching physical risk exposure and impact assessment with location-specific, science-based data for decision making
  • Carbon accounting: Utilising the solutions independently verified calculation engine to ensure Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions are credible to facilitate clients’ decarbonisation journey
  • Forecasting: Providing audit-ready, science-based outputs and dynamic scenario modelling, auto-updated with live data, to help organisations confidently plan their emissions reduction strategies and evaluate multiple what-if scenarios
  • Sustainability assurance: Providing a clear, auditable trail of data that strengthens the integrity of information for both internal governance and external assurance.

EcoOnline’s ESG and Sustainability solution was designed by environmental scientists, including a Nobel Peace Prize laureate and is recognised as a Leader in the 2025 Verdantix Green Quadrant for ESG. Built for enterprise-grade complexity, based on standards such as the GHG Protocol, ISO 14064-1 and PAS 2050, it provides transparent, accurate reporting that helps organisations meet goals, reduce costs and increase overall performance.

“Although ACRA and SGX Reg Co have recently announced extended timelines for non-STI listed companies to adapt climate related disclosure, it is imperative for organisations not to pause, but take the opportunity to build capabilities to support our national net-zero agendas and be ready for mandatory assurance to improve investor confidence,” said Lai Kee Yin, Partner in Technology, Digital & Sustainability Consulting at Forvis Mazars. “We consistently hear from clients that their biggest challenge is moving beyond narrative-based reports to produce auditable, investment-grade data. Having used EcoOnline’s solution ourselves, we have firsthand confidence in its science-based approach.”

“We’re delighted to welcome Forvis Mazars Singapore into our global partner community,” commented Sean Flynn, Regional Sales Director at EcoOnline. “Their depth of sustainability expertise and advisory experience makes them a highly valued partner as organisations in Singapore – a hub for global headquarters in Asia – work to deliver on the ambitions of the Green Plan 2030 and the path to net zero by 2050. With Forvis Mazars’ insight and EcoOnline’s connected safety and sustainability suite, we can provide organisations with the tools and guidance they need to accelerate their sustainability journey. Together, we look forward to supporting businesses that share our vision of a safer, more sustainable world.”

The partnership also focuses on market awareness through educational initiatives in Singapore, including training and knowledge-sharing sessions, to help companies better understand and leverage the solution.

The integrated ESG and sustainability solution from Forvis Mazars and EcoOnline is now available to clients in Singapore.

Hashtag: #ForvisMazars #ForvisMazarsSingapore #EcoOnline #Sustainability #GreenTech #EcoSolutions #Partnership #ESGReporting #Compliance




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

Forvis Mazars in Singapore

Forvis Mazars Group SC is an independent member of Forvis Mazars Global, a leading professional services network. Operating as an internationally integrated partnership in over 100 countries and territories, Forvis Mazars Group specialises in audit, tax and advisory services. The partnership draws on the expertise and cultural understanding of over 40,000 professionals across the globe to assist clients of all sizes at every stage in their development. Forvis Mazars in Singapore is part of the Forvis Mazars Group. Our clientele benefits from the combined expertise of 400+ Singapore-based professionals and our international team.

EcoOnline
EcoOnline delivers uncomplicated environment, health and safety (EHS), chemical management and ESG/sustainability technology solutions to forward-thinking leaders. Safeguarding your entire workforce, from frontline employees to lone workers and contractors, EcoOnline’s always-on solutions support your organisation through everyday operations and moments of emergency and crisis alike. Our connected suite of SaaS software enables over 11,000 businesses to protect their people and the planet by ensuring compliance, risk visibility and mitigation, operational predictability and long-term resilience. Backed by an unwavering commitment to customer success, EcoOnline’s software is powerful yet simple to use – built on decades of real-world expertise, data and insights.

Visit to immediately and positively impact your workplace safety and sustainability.

Alpro Launches Prof. Slow to Help Malaysians Make Rice Kinder to Blood Sugar

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 September 2025 – Nutritionists and Dietitians of Alpro Pharmacy, Malaysia’s largest prescription pharmacy chain, has introduced a clinically developed dietary solution to address one of the nation’s most pressing health challenges: diabetes. Known as Prof. Slow Smart Fibre, the functional powder lowers the glycaemic index (GI) of rice by up to 38%, allowing families to continue enjoying their staple food while keeping blood sugar levels more stable.

(From Left: Ms. Michelle Zhang (Director of Overseas Business of Prof. Slow); Pharmacist Lim En Ni (Chief Pharmacist, Engagement Director of Alpro Pharmacy); Mr. Jim Li (Chief Operation Officer of Prof. Slow); Mr. Eric Huang (Chief Executive Officer of Prof. Slow); Dr. Wong Poh Shean (Consultant Endocrinologist in Internal Medicine at Hospi019-906 7923tal Tuanku Ja’afar Seremban, Vice President of Diabetes Malaysia Negeri Sembilan); Mr Terry Lee (Chief Executive Officer of BMS Organics); Ms Tan Bee Lang (Manager of Corporate Sales & Training Department of BMS Organics); Ms Chua Kai Jia (Professional Care and Development Manager of Alpro Pharmacy); Pharmacist Low Swee Siong (Chief Executive Officer of Alpro Pharmacy)
(From Left: Ms. Michelle Zhang (Director of Overseas Business of Prof. Slow); Pharmacist Lim En Ni (Chief Pharmacist, Engagement Director of Alpro Pharmacy); Mr. Jim Li (Chief Operation Officer of Prof. Slow); Mr. Eric Huang (Chief Executive Officer of Prof. Slow); Dr. Wong Poh Shean (Consultant Endocrinologist in Internal Medicine at Hospi019-906 7923tal Tuanku Ja’afar Seremban, Vice President of Diabetes Malaysia Negeri Sembilan); Mr Terry Lee (Chief Executive Officer of BMS Organics); Ms Tan Bee Lang (Manager of Corporate Sales & Training Department of BMS Organics); Ms Chua Kai Jia (Professional Care and Development Manager of Alpro Pharmacy); Pharmacist Low Swee Siong (Chief Executive Officer of Alpro Pharmacy)

“Health isn’t about forcing compliance, it’s about making better options available,” said Dietitian Chua Kai Jia, Professional Care & Development Manager at Alpro Pharmacy. “With Prof. Slow, Malaysians don’t have to choose between their culture and their health. We’re giving them a way to enjoy rice while managing glucose levels more effectively.”

The launch comes at a critical time for public health in Malaysia. According to the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2023, 15.6% of Malaysian adults, roughly 1 in 6 are now living with diabetes. Earlier projections warned that by 2025, over 7 million Malaysians (or 31.3% of adults) would be affected, a figure that now appears alarmingly close. Beyond its medical toll, the economic impact is severe: a joint report by the Ministry of Health and the World Health Organization estimates RM9.65 billion in annual direct healthcare spending on diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer, with an additional RM8.91 billion lost in productivity and absenteeism.

Diet remains a key contributor to this trend. White rice, noodles, sweetened beverages, and refined carbohydrates dominate Malaysian meals, while fibre intake remains critically low. Over 84.6% of adults consume less than the WHO’s recommended 25 grams of daily fibre, with average intake between just 6.9 — 7.8 grams. Meanwhile, over 64% of Malaysians eat at least one meal daily outside the home, where GI values and nutritional transparency are rarely available, making blood sugar management even more difficult.

Healthcare professionals have underscored the importance of complementary solutions alongside medication. “With 1 in 6 Malaysians now living with diabetes, it is crucial to combine lifestyle changes with prescribed medications,” said Dr. Wong Poh Shean, Consultant Endocrinologist in Internal Medicine at Hospital Tuanku Ja’afar Seremban and Vice President of Diabetes Malaysia (Negeri Sembilan). “In order to ensure the sustainability of good dietary habits, practical approaches to food are essential. This will allow patients to continue to enjoy staple foods like rice.”

Prof. Slow is part of Alpro’s wider commitment to preventive healthcare through nutrition. The range also includes W-Cookies, a fibre-enriched snack at just 50 kcal per serving, and Chia Seed Peanut Butter Jam, a natural spread made with no added salt, sugar, or artificial flavouring. While not intended as medical treatment, these products are designed to support healthier food routines, particularly for individuals managing blood sugar or reducing glycaemic load.

Together, these solutions address Malaysia’s nutritional gaps, making balanced living both accessible and sustainable. Prof. Slow products are now available at all Alpro Pharmacy, Alpro Sugiスギ Pharmacy, and BMS Organics.

Hashtag: #Alpro

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

About Alpro Pharmacy

With a humble beginning starting with a single pharmacy outlet in the small town of Port Dickson in 2002, Alpro Pharmacy is now a diversified community chain pharmacy that provides comprehensive primary healthcare solutions via over 300 outlets including Alpro Pharmacy, Alpro Clinic, Alpro Physio and Alpro Baby, both online and offline, nationwide. It is supported by a team of more than 650 healthcare professionals, ranging from doctors, pharmacists, nutritionists, dietitians to physiotherapists and many other healthcare professionals.

Serving more than 3 million families in Malaysia, Alpro Pharmacy is the first and only community pharmacy in the country to provide RM1 million product liability insurance to safeguard the supply of genuine medications. With over 500,000 prescriptions filled per year, Alpro Pharmacy is also the largest prescription pharmacy chain in Malaysia.

For more information, please visit .

Epigenic Therapeutics Announces Completion of $60 Million Series B Financing to Accelerate Clinical Development of Epigenetic Medicines

SHANGHAI, Sept. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Epigenic Therapeutics (“Epigenic”), a clinical-stage innovative drug development company, today announced the completion of a $60 million Series B round of financing led by Lapam Capital, with continued participation from existing investors Qiming Venture Partners and OrbiMed, and addition of new investors including IFSC and a renowned investment firm in the industry. This round of funding will primarily support the ongoing clinical development of EPI-003 for chronic hepatitis B functional cure and EPI-001 for hypercholesterolemia treatment. Additionally, the fund will accelerate the advancement of multiple preclinical programs and further strengthen the company’s technology platforms, providing strong momentum for Epigenic’s deep commitment to innovation of epigenetic medicine.

As a pioneering biotechnology company dedicated to developing next-generation gene modulation therapy utilizing epigenome regulation to treat prevalent diseases, Epigenic has consistently remained at the forefront of the industry. Its proprietary EPIREG™ technology platform enables efficient, durable, and specific silencing of target genes through precise DNA methylation and histone modification. Unlike traditional gene-editing tools that rely on DNA cleavage, EPIREG™ offers a safer and revolutionary therapeutic approach for patients with chronic diseases, effectively mitigating safety concerns associated with conventional gene editing. 

Notably, Epigenic has independently developed EpiTax™, an in-vivo LNP delivery platform, to precisely deliver EPIREG™ tools to the liver as well as multiple extrahepatic organs. This further expands the application scope of EPIREG™ across a broader range of disease areas, further enhancing Epigenic’s technology portfolio and competitive edge. 

In addition, the AIAID™ platform developed by Epigenic empowers the molecular design, target selection, and precise modulation of epigenetic medicine. The platform is equipped with a self-developed foundational model for epigenetics, providing precise core data and algorithm support. The multi-agent collaborative virtual lab autonomously performs tasks such as target discovery, target investigation, accessibility prediction, sgRNA design and evaluation, virtual epigenetic modulation, and multi-omics analysis. Furthermore, the platform utilizes AI-driven de novo protein design and AI-directed evolution to accelerate the discovery, iteration, and optimization of EPIREG™. 

“We are deeply grateful for the trust and support from both new and existing shareholders,” said Dr. Bob Zhang, Co-founder & CEO of Epigenic Therapeutics. “Since our inception, we have remained focused on advancing epigenetic modulation technologies and have achieved remarkable progress in just a few years. We will continue to drive the clinical development of our core pipelines to deliver safe and effective therapies to patients as soon as possible.” 

“Epigenetic drug development is a highly promising field, and Epigenic has demonstrated outstanding technological advantages and growth potential,” said Mr. Zhihua Yu, Chairman of Lapam Capital. “The combination of its EPIREG™ platform and EpiTax™ delivery system provides a unique solution for disease treatment. With this financing, we believe Epigenic will achieve further breakthroughs in clinical development and technological innovation, solidifying its leadership in epigenetics and bringing transformative therapies to patients worldwide.” 

About Epigenic Therapeutics

Epigenic Therapeutics is a frontier biotechnology company dedicated to developing next-generation gene modulation therapy utilizing regulation of epigenetic genome for a variety of diseases. Founded in 2021 by leading scientists focused on discovering genetic technologies and developing gene modulation therapies, the company has multiple product candidates in the pipeline, including treatments for metabolic, cardiovascular, viral hepatitis, ocular and autoimmune diseases, etc. For more information, please visit www.epigenictx.com 

About Lapam Capital 

Headquartered in Beijing, Lapam Capital is a leading venture capital firm specializing in the biomedical sector in China. The frim currently manages five RMB funds and one USD fund, with total assets under management exceeding RMB 10 billion. Notably, it is the only biomedical investment institution that has received funding from China’s two most prominent RMB limited partners (LPs)-the National Social Security Fund and the National SME Development Fund. Lapam Capital focuses on innovative pharmaceuticals and cutting-edge medical devices, with a stategic emphasis on early-stage and early-to-mid-stage enterprises. To date, the firm has invested in a total of 200 enterprises, including over 160 innovative drug companies and more than 30 innovative medical device companies. Lapam Capital’s leadership team includes multiple partners with over 20 years of experience in both international and domestic biopharmaceutical R&D and management. This enables the firm to provide comprehensive value-added services to its portfolio companies.

About Qiming Venture Partners

Qiming Venture Partners was founded in 2006. Currently, Qiming Venture Partners manages eleven US Dollar funds and seven RMB funds with $9.5 billion in capital raised. Since its establishment, it has invested in outstanding companies in the Technology and Healthcare industries at the early and growth stages.

To date, Qiming Venture Partners has backed over 580 fast-growing and innovative companies. Over 210 of our portfolio companies have achieved exits through IPOs at the NYSE, NASDAQ, HKEX, Shanghai Stock Exchange, or Shenzhen Stock Exchange, or through M&A or other means. There are also over 80 portfolio companies that have achieved unicorn or super unicorn status. For more, please visit www.qimingvc.com

About OrbiMed

OrbiMed is a leading global healthcare investment firm, with over $17 billion in assets under management across a range of private equity funds, public equity funds, and private credit/royalty funds. It invests across the healthcare industry, from start-ups to large multinational corporations. OrbiMed’s team of over 100 scientific, medical, investment, and other professionals are based in key markets around the world. For more information on OrbiMed, please visit www.orbimed.com

About IFSC

Founded in 2017, IFSC is an investment institution focused on the life sciences. Guided by the philosophy of “value investing driven by basic science,” it seeks out “scientist-entrepreneurs.” The firm continuously targets unmet clinical needs in order to advance human health. To date IFSC has managed more than twelve funds, pursues a high-win-rate strategy, and has seen six of its ten historical healthcare investments go public through IPOs.

BLUETTI Launches 9.9 Mega Sale on Lazada: Affordable Backup for Every Home

MANILA, Philippines , Sept. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — BLUETTI, a technology pioneer in clean energy, is launching its 9.9 Mega Sale on Lazada from September 8th to 18th, with up to 70% off, flash deals, and exclusive gifts. The newly-released Elite series provide next-level backup power with enhanced performance, efficiency, and portability. These offerings give Filipinos an affordable way to prepare for power outages triggered by ongoing monsoon rains and typhoons.

BLUETTI
BLUETTI

New Elite 100 V2: Keep Life Going During Outage

Power outages throw life into a mess—freezers thaw and fans stop. The Elite 100 V2 restores order with 1,800W output (2,700W surge) packed in a 35% more compact casing. 11 versatile outlets cater to all essentials, including phones, fridges, and electric fans for uninterrupted comforts. A 1,024Wh LiFePO4 battery offers about 9 hours of TV time. Fueled by the latest TurboBoost tech, charging is faster than ever: 0-80% in 45 minutes from the wall or a full solar charge in just 70 minutes.

New Elite 200 V2: Extended Backup for Bigger Loads

For households or small stores that need stronger backup, the Elite 200 V2 pumps out 2,600W power for heavy-duty microwaves and commercial coolers while being 40% smaller than the peers. Its self-comsumption drops to an industry low, allowing the 2073.6Wh capacity to power a 40W fan for over 32 hours, or a 100W fridge for 14 hours. Built with automotive-grade LiFePO₄ cells, it promises up to 17 years of service life—12 times longer than the average.

BLUETTI EB3A: Grab-and-Go Everyday Power

Flooding often forces families to evacuate on short notice. The 4.6kg EB3A provides critical mobile power (600W/268Wh) in a pinch. It has 9 outlets to keep everyone’s phones charged and the network operational. A built-in LED light with an SOS mode adds convenience during emergencies.

Extra Perks

BLUETTI is sweetening the sale with exclusive freebies: a carrying pack or Decathlon backpack with the AC70 and Elite 100 V2, plus a trolley for AC200L and Elite 200 V2 buyers (limited availability). Customers can also join BLUETTI philippines social media giveaway to win an AC2A. Explore the BLUETTI Lazada store now.

About BLUETTI

Founded in 2009, BLUETTI has grown into a leading clean energy brand with innovative portable power stations, solar panels, and home storage systems. Serving over 4 million customers in 110+ countries, BLUETTI continues to make sustainable, reliable power accessible to households worldwide.

WSPN Completes Acquisition of Aplauz NL B.V.

TORTOLA, British Virgin Islands, Sept. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Worldwide Stablecoin Payment Network (WSPN), a leading global digital payments company, today announced the successful acquisition of Aplauz NL B.V., a licensed Dutch Electronic Money Institution (EMI) and subsidiary of Aplauz Financial Services Ltd. The transaction was approved by De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB) in June 2025 and finalized in July 2025.

The acquisition underscores WSPN’s commitment to building a global presence while advancing compliant stablecoin payment ecosystems across key markets. It reflects WSPN’s determination to drive the standardization of stablecoin services and to broaden its reach into diverse real-world applications, helping accelerate the development of future financial infrastructure.

Executive Statements

“The acquisition of Aplauz NL B.V. strengthens our European presence and accelerates our mission to pioneer transparent and inclusive digital payments,” said Raymond Yuan, Founder & CEO at WSPN. “With Aplauz’s established platform and team, we will explore broader market opportunities in productizing stablecoin use cases, delivering innovative next-generation payment network solutions to more partners and users.”

“We are delighted to complete this next step in our journey,” said Goran Abramović, Director of Aplauz Financial Services Ltd. “The successful sale of our Dutch operations to WSPN highlights the strength of the Aplauz platform and its relevance in today’s evolving digital payments landscape. We are confident that WSPN will build on this foundation and unlock exciting opportunities for Aplauz NL B.V.”

About WSPN

WSPN is a leading provider of next-generation stablecoin infrastructure, committed to building a more secure, efficient, and transparent payment solution for the global economy. Its product portfolio includes stablecoins and a diverse suite of productized solutions for real-world stablecoin payment scenarios, all designed to build and expand the WSPN network ecosystem. Guided by its “Stablecoin 2.0” vision, WSPN places usability, reliability, and accessibility at the core of its approach, driving the mainstream adoption of stablecoins worldwide.

About Aplauz

Aplauz Financial Services Ltd. is a financial technology company that develops and operates platforms and regulatory services enabling partners to build and scale compliant digital payment solutions. Founded in 2020, Aplauz has evolved from a consumer-focused payments provider into a B2B technology and compliance partner.

As part of this strategic transformation, Aplauz has divested its European EMI operations — including Aplauz NL B.V. and previously Aplauz CH GmbH — to focus on delivering technology, licensing, and regulatory infrastructure that empower businesses in the digital payments sector.

‘Blood Moon’ Rises During Total Lunar Eclipse

This photograph shows a view of a full moon also known as "Blood Moon" with leaves in the foreground during a phase of a total lunar eclipse in Jakarta on September 8, 2025. Stargazers will have a chance to see a "Blood Moon" on Sunday night during a total lunar eclipse visible across Asia and swathes of Europe and Africa. (Photo by YASUYOSHI CHIBA / AFP)

AFP – Stargazers enjoyed a “Blood Moon” Sunday night during a total lunar eclipse visible across Asia and swathes of Europe and Africa.

When the Sun, Earth and Moon line up, the shadow cast by the planet on its satellite makes it appear an eerie, deep red color that has astounded humans for millennia.

People in Asia, including India and China, were best placed to see Sunday’s total eclipse, which was also be visible on the eastern edge of Africa as well as in western Australia.

Stargazers in Europe and Africa also got a brief chance to see a partial eclipse just as the Moon rose during the early evening, but the Americas missed out.

The Moon appears red during lunar eclipses because the only sunlight reaching it is “reflected and scattered through the Earth’s atmosphere”, said Ryan Milligan, an astrophysicist at Queen’s University Belfast, Northern Ireland.

Blue wavelengths of light are shorter than red ones, so are more easily dispersed as they travel through Earth’s atmosphere, he told AFP.

“That’s what gives the Moon its red, bloody color.”

While special glasses or pinhole projectors are needed to safely observe solar eclipses, all that is required to see a lunar eclipse is clear weather, and being in the right spot.

The last total lunar eclipse was in March this year, while the one before that was in 2022.

A rare total solar eclipse, when the Moon blocks out the light from the Sun, will be visible in a sliver of Europe on August 12, 2026.

Next year’s totality, the first in mainland Europe since 2006, will be visible only in Spain and Iceland, though other countries will be able to see a significant partial eclipse.

In Spain, the totality will be visible in a roughly 160-kilometre (100-mile) band between Madrid and Barcelona, but neither city will see the full phenomenon, Milligan said.

It will be the first total solar eclipse since one swept across North America in April 2024.


© Agence France-Presse

Bookmarked for Adventure: Agoda’s Guide to Asia’s Most Unique Libraries

SINGAPORE, Sept. 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Digital travel platform Agoda has unveiled a curated list highlighting Asia’s most stunning libraries, inviting travelers to take a literary journey through Asia. These libraries, ranging from garden-based wooden structures to architectural marvels, serve as spaces that inspire curiosity, foster learning, and offer a sense of escape. With their unique charm and cultural depth, they stand as more than just places to read—they are experiences waiting to be discovered by bookworms, architectural enthusiasts, and curious travelers alike.

Libraries across Asia hold a special place as cultural landmarks and architectural treasures, offering a glimpse into the heritage and creativity of their communities. The eco-conscious design of Beitou Library in Taipei and the colonial grandeur of Ho Chi Minh City’s General Sciences Library are just two examples of how these spaces blend beauty with purpose.

Agoda’s curated selection celebrates libraries across Asia that provide not only a quiet retreat but also a meaningful connection to history, culture, and the written word.

1.      Beitou Library, Taipei, Taiwan

Nestled in the lush greenery of Beitou Park, this eco-conscious library is a haven for nature and book lovers alike. Its wooden structure, designed to minimize environmental impact, blends seamlessly with its surroundings. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful reading experience while soaking in the natural beauty of Taipei’s hot spring district.

2.      Starfield Library, Seoul, South Korea

Located in the bustling COEX Mall, Starfield Library is a visual feast with its towering bookshelves and vibrant atmosphere. This photogenic space is as much a cultural hub as it is a library, hosting events, exhibitions, and a diverse collection of books in multiple languages.

3.      David Sassoon Library and Reading Room, Mumbai, India

A Gothic Revival gem in the heart of Mumbai, this historic library has been a cultural landmark since 1870. Its stunning architecture, tranquil garden, and rich collection of books make it a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. It’s a place where history and literature come alive.

4.      Neilson Hays Library, Bangkok, Thailand

A neoclassical treasure in Bangkok, Neilson Hays Library is a serene retreat for book lovers. Its elegant interiors, lush gardens, and rich history make it a must-visit for those seeking a quiet moment in the heart of the city.

5.      Kanazawa Umimirai Library, Kanazawa, Japan

This minimalist masterpiece is a modern architectural wonder. Its honeycomb-like facade and serene interiors create a calming atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for quiet contemplation and inspiration.

6.      Ho Chi Minh City General Sciences Library, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

A relic of French colonial architecture, this library is a hidden gem in the bustling city. Its grand interiors and tranquil reading spaces offer a glimpse into Vietnam’s literary and cultural heritage, making it a unique stop for history and book enthusiasts.

Jun Dong, Associate Vice President at Agoda shared, “Asia’s libraries are as diverse as the stories they hold, offering a special haven for everyone, whether you’re a bookworm or just looking for a quiet escape. Fort travelers looking to turn the page on traditional sightseeing and discover destinations that inspire and educate, these libraries offer a gateway to architectural beauty, culture, and history. Agoda is thrilled to help travelers discover these incredible spaces, making them must-visit stops on any journey. “

Travelers looking to read their way through Asia can find over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities on Agoda’s platform, making it easier than ever to plan a trip that combines culture, relaxation, and a literary adventure. Visit Agoda.com or download the Agoda mobile app for the best deals and seamless booking options.

 

100-Day Countdown to Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse Ordinance: Save the Children Hong Kong’s “Child Protection Conference 2025” Unites Cross-Sector Forces

Save the Children Hong Kong hosted conference bringing together professionals from the education sector and child-facing NGOs.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 September 2025 – With around 100 days remaining before the implementation of the Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse Ordinance (hereafter “the Ordinance”), Save the Children Hong Kong convened the “Child Protection Conference: Creating Protective Communities in 100 Days” (hereafter “the Conference”). The event gathered nearly 150 professionals from the education and child-facing services sectors to explore frontline strategies. The Conference aimed to enhance participants’ awareness, knowledge and skills in child protection, ensuring all child-facing professionals are well-prepared for the new legislation and can collectively build a robust safeguarding network for children.

Save the Children Hong Kong hosted conference bringing together professionals from the education sector and child-facing NGOs.
Save the Children Hong Kong hosted conference bringing together professionals from the education sector and child-facing NGOs.

The Conference provided a cross-sector platform for sharing practical experiences, listening to children’s voices, and engaging in in-depth exchanges with experts. Key topics included building a safeguarding organisational culture, responsibilities under the new law, and practical strategies to prevent harm to children.
Cross-sector Dialogue to Address Frontline Concerns
The Conference opened with a keynote speech by Kalina Tsang, CEO of Save the Children Hong Kong. With just around 100 days until the Ordinance takes effect, she emphasised that cross-sector collaboration is crucial at this pivotal moment: “The implementation of the Mandatory Reporting Ordinance marks a significant step forward in child protection for Hong Kong. But fundamental safeguarding begins with prevention. We must build a culture of prevention through cross-disciplinary collaboration—empowering every professional who interacts with children to play an active role across systems, institutions, and communities.”
She added, “Once the Ordinance is in force, we expect a rise in reported cases, especially those that have previously gone unnoticed or unspoken. Safeguarding children is not solely the responsibility of professionals—it is a collective duty. Society adopts a zero-tolerance policy towards child abuse. We cannot afford to be bystanders. I encourage everyone, if you suspect a child is at risk, speak up. Your action could protect a child’s life.”
Three Panel Discussions: From Systems, Practice to Frontline Challenges
The full-day Conference featured three thematic panel discussions, each exploring in-depth and comprehensive exchanges on different aspects of child protection, including the critical role of child-facing organisations, legal and practical challenges and opportunities of the Ordinance, and the prevention of child sexual abuse alongside survivor support.
In the first panel, child rights advocates highlighted organisations serving children play a crucial role in their lives and must establish robust safeguarding policies and cultures. From codes of conduct and staff training to personal data protection, every measure should aim to prevent harm. They stressed the urgency of building child-safe organisational cultures. With a surge in local child abuse cases—likely far exceeding reported figure, they called on society to address systemic gaps and strengthen child protection through policy, procedures, culture, and accountability.
The second panel focused on the implementation details, legal liabilities, safeguards, and practical operations for frontline personnel regarding mandatory reporting. Experts noted that while the Ordinance is a big step forward, its implementation still requires refinement. They engaged in in-depth discussions on reporting thresholds, legal liability, support mechanisms, and interdepartmental collaboration. Recommendations included clearer guidelines and legal safeguards to ensure frontline professionals are adequately supported when making reports.
The final panel centred on child sexual abuse. Speakers from youth organisations and sexual violence victim support organisations shared their experiences, challenges, and strategies. They stressed that prevention must go beyond post-incident intervention and should begin with education, systemic reform, and survivor-centred support. This includes training adults to identify risks, promoting evidence-based research, and providing tailored support for adult survivors. The panel called for greater societal awareness of the deep trauma caused by child sexual violence.
The Conference also featured breakout sessions covering topics such as positive parent-child communication, child protection in the online world, supporting harmed children, and strategies for addressing cyberbullying. These sessions helped frontline professionals strengthen their core safeguarding skills and response strategies.
Youth Voices: Designing Child-centred Systems
Children’s voices were a vital part of the Conference. In one session, youth representatives shared the “The hidden tragedies of children: abuses from friends and close adults”. They introduced a peer supporter programme that trains students to assist or observe peers who may be experiencing or at risk of abuse. They also advocated for mandatory personal rights education in school curricula and discussed ways to improve children’s access to NGOs and safeguarding services.
Looking Ahead: A Collective Commitment to Safeguarding Children
The Conference marked a significant step forward in Hong Kong’s child protection efforts. It not only prepared stakeholders for the upcoming legislation but also promoted a broader culture of prevention—one that is more alert and responsive to children’s needs. The discussions and collaborations initiated at the Conference are expected to have a lasting impact on child protection policies and practices across the city.
To foster a more robust child protection system, Save the Children Hong Kong’s campaign, “A Safe Childhood: As It Should Be?”, is launching a public petition. The initiative calls on all sectors of society to place child safeguarding at the forefront and urges the government to establish long-term policies in this area. Members of the public are invited to show their support by signing the petition and pledging to take action when encountering suspected abuse—reinforcing the vital message that protecting children is a shared responsibility.

Hashtag: #SavetheChildrenHongKong #ChildProtection #ChildProtectionConference #MandatoryReportingofChildAbuseOrdinance




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Save the Children Hong Kong

Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. In Hong Kong and around the world, we do whatever it takes – every day and in times of crisis – so children can fulfil their rights to a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. With over 100 years of expertise, we are the world’s first and leading independent children’s organisation – transforming lives and the future we share.

Established in 2009, Save the Children Hong Kong is part of the global movement which operates in around 100 countries. We work with children, families, schools, communities and our supporters to deliver lasting change for children in Hong Kong and around the world.