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Banyan Group Residences Unveils Exclusive Banyan Tree Beach Residences Varuna at Laguna Phuket

A limited collection of eight beachfront townhomes offers a rare opportunity to own directly on Bang Tao Beach.


PHUKET, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2026 – Banyan Group Residences has unveiled Banyan Tree Beach Residences Varuna, a collection of just eight beachfront townhomes within Laguna Phuket. Positioned directly on Bang Tao Beach, the development offers a rare opportunity to own a branded residence on one of Phuket’s most sought-after stretches of coastline.

BTBR Varuna Aerial

Inspired by a “Coastal Biophilia” design philosophy, the architecture connects each residence closely to its beachfront setting. Curved building lines echo wave motion, while slatted timber cladding and trellis screening reference sand and shifting coastal light. Floor-to-ceiling glazing along ocean-facing elevations frames sweeping Andaman Sea views, and each residence’s private rooftop infinity pool and terrace are oriented west to capture the sunset.

Each four-bedroom, four-level townhome draws on Southern Thailand’s traditional architecture, with layered thresholds and vertical timber lines. The principal living and dining spaces occupy the upper level behind full-height glazing which opens out fully to allow breathtaking seaviews.

A private lift connects all floors, and each unit includes a ground-floor garden terrace. The master suite occupies its own floor, with a walk-in closet, reading room and ensuite bathroom opening to a private courtyard, finished throughout with premium appliances.

Bang Tao Beach: An Absolute Beachfront Address

Varuna sits directly on Bang Tao Beach on one of the few remaining absolute beachfront sites within Laguna Phuket.

Laguna Phuket spans over 1,000 acres of parkland, lagoons and five kilometres of coastline. Residents have access to the Laguna Golf Phuket 18-hole course, several spas, extensive dining and the new RAVA Beach Club, with Phuket International Airport nearby.

Ownership Benefits

Ownership unlocks membership of The Sanctuary Club, Banyan Group’s owner programme offering discounts across its properties worldwide, plus complimentary RAVA Beach Club membership with priority facility access, dining discounts and marine sports.

Additional benefits include Laguna Golf membership, 24-hour concierge and professional property management. Through the Laguna Advantage programme, owners also receive one year’s complimentary property management and insurance, one year’s free enrolment at Laguna Phuket’s onsite preschool, discounted fees at selected international schools, and access to medical and wellness benefits.

Banyan Living: A Rental Management Solution

Owners are automatically enrolled in Banyan Living, Banyan Group’s rental management platform, which supports property care, guest servicing and rental distribution while giving owners flexibility in how they use their residence.

With its limited collection of eight townhomes, direct beachfront setting and access to Laguna Phuket’s amenities, Banyan Tree Beach Residences Varuna marks a distinctive addition to Phuket’s luxury residential landscape.

Hashtag: #BanyanGroupResidences #LagunaPhuket

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

About Laguna Phuket

Laguna Phuket is Asia’s premier integrated resort destination, set against the stunning backdrop of the Andaman Sea. Spanning over 1,000 acres, the resort features six luxury hotels, an award-winning 18-hole golf course, fine dining, luxury spas, and branded residences.

Guests benefit from complimentary shuttle services, a cashless payment system, and access to world-class recreational and wellness facilities. The property division offers a range of residences, apartments, and villas, perfect for those seeking permanent homes or investment opportunities.

About Banyan Group Residences

Banyan Group Residences is the property development arm of Banyan Group, a global leader in luxury hospitality and sustainable development. With over 35 years of experience, Banyan Group Residences has redefined tropical living with iconic residential developments across Thailand and beyond. Its projects seamlessly blend contemporary design, cultural heritage, and a commitment to sustainability, setting a global benchmark for luxury living.

Ownership privileges, memberships and services are subject to applicable terms and conditions, availability, programme rules and change from time to time. Rental participation is optional and no rental return is guaranteed.

Seven Lao Artists Are Taking Life Advice From Cats

Artwork from Like a Cat’s Tiny Life exhibition by seven Lao artists in Vientiane
A picture of 2 Lao artists, Phoud (left) and Fanta (right) with their cat illustrations. (Photo supplied)

Cats spend much of their day sleeping, stretching in the sun, at times hunting, or just watching the world go by. For a group of Lao artists, those habits have become the inspiration for art.

Life feels busier than ever, and Laos is no exception. Seven artists in Laos have turned to cats to explore what many people seem to be searching for today: a little more freedom, self-acceptance and joy in the ordinary moments of everyday life.

A picture of Tamper Cafe where the exhibition is held.

Their exhibition, Like a Cat’s Tiny Life, running until 31 July at The Tamper Coffee & Studio in Vientiane, brings together paintings, illustrations and photography that ask a simple question: what can people learn from slowing down?

Why Cats?

“All seven of us wanted to create a small space filled with warmth through stories about cats. We wanted people to experience life through the artists’ small perspectives on cats,” artist Fanta Keomanila told The Laotian Times.

For him, cats represent independence.

He described them as animals that follow their own way, sleeping and resting when they choose and finding happiness in simple moments such as watching birds or lying in the warm sun, rather than conforming to outside expectations.

Fanta believes those qualities have become especially meaningful as people face lots of pressure in their daily lives. He also believes that cats are often misunderstood.

A picture of one of Fanta’s illustrations

“They don’t teach us to become lazy or irresponsible,” he said. “They teach us to relax in a busy world, love ourselves more, care about the things that truly matter, and live at a pace that feels comfortable like cats.”

“Sometimes happiness or inspiration might already be around us, just like a small cat,” he said. “For me, cats are the inspiration for my canvas,” he said. “I experiment with watercolor, oil painting, acrylic, and digital painting. They make the work feel approachable, but in that simplicity, there’s always a story that I hope people can connect with.”

 

Ultimately, Fanta hopes visitors walk away feeling a little calmer than when they arrived.

Meaning in Imperfection

Meanwhile, Phoudthasone “Phoud” Souksompheng explores the same idea from a different angle.

A picture of some of Phoud’s cat figures and doodles

Best known for his doodle illustrations, he said both doodle art and cats always remind him that not everything in life has to be polished or carefully planned.

For him, that’s a lot like life.

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Another set of doodles for Phoud

“We often spend so much time trying to control everything,” he said. “But many things in life simply cannot be controlled. Sometimes we succeed. Sometimes we don’t. Both are part of life.”

He said people often get caught between thinking about what has already happened and worrying about what’s coming next.

“Doodle lines represent the life we create in the present,” he said. “If we keep thinking about the past, we become afraid to draw the next line. If we worry too much about the future, our hands begin to shake.”

Cats became part of that story because they express emotions in simple ways.

“Cats become the bridge between imagination and everyday life,” he said. “Through their expressions, movements, and quiet personality, they can communicate emotions that are sometimes difficult to explain with words.”

Like Fanta, Phoud hopes people leave with something that stays with them after they walk out.

Despite their different styles, the artists kept coming back to the same idea. In a world where everyone seems to be constantly rushing somewhere, maybe there’s something to learn from a furry friend that’s perfectly happy taking a nap in the sun.

While all artists present a different visual style, they share one common message: in a society where people are constantly rushing, perhaps there is value in slowing down, appreciating ordinary moments, and seeing the world, if only briefly, through the quiet eyes of a cat.

Novum Studio Secures New Funding to Launch Ahoy Project, an AI-Native Enterprise Transformation Platform, Building on Its 20-Million-User Gen Z App Frog

  • Novum Studio has raised a new round of funding to launch Ahoy Project, its enterprise AI solution, with internal testing scheduled for July 2026.
  • Ahoy Project is positioned as the infrastructure for AI-native enterprise transformation – an AI-native communication platform serving as the underlying system, delivered as an end-to-end tailored solution.
  • The launch expands the company beyond Frog, its Gen Z consumer social app that has reached 20 million users across the U.S. and Europe.
  • Novum Studio said it is applying lessons from operating high-frequency social platforms at scale to workplace communication and knowledge systems.

NEW YORK, USA – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2026 – Novum Studio, the company behind Frog – a Gen Z social app often described as a “new-generation Snapchat” – said it has raised a new round of funding and will use the proceeds to launch Ahoy Project, an AI-native enterprise communication and collaboration platform, with internal testing scheduled for July 2026.

The Novum Studio team at London Tech Week 2025.
The Novum Studio team at London Tech Week 2025.

Unlike conventional workplace software, Ahoy Project will not be sold as a standalone software subscription, the company said. Novum Studio provides the infrastructure and a full tailored solution for enterprises undergoing AI-native transformation, with the communication platform serving as the underlying system on which that transformation is built.

Founded as a consumer social company, Novum Studio has reached more than 20 million users across the U.S. and Europe. Frog gained traction among younger users through spontaneous, real-time sharing designed around authenticity and low-pressure interaction. The company said its experience building large-scale social “spaces” – where millions of people communicate, form groups and coordinate in real time — directly informs its approach to enterprise collaboration.

The new funding will support the launch and international expansion of the enterprise business as artificial intelligence reshapes how organizations communicate, collaborate and operate, the company said.

Novum Studio was founded by Anna Danyi, who graduated from the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) in 2018 and began her career in consulting and technology. Before founding Novum Studio, she built multiple consumer applications and exited through an acquisition. In 2025, Forbes China recognized her among the Top 100 most influential global Chinese figures in AI digital products area.

“We spent years understanding how millions of users communicate online,” Anna Danyi said. “In the AI era, communication itself is becoming intelligent. We believe the next generation of platforms will not only connect people — they will understand workflows, collaboration and organizational behavior.”

From Consumer Social to Enterprise AI

Modern organizations face growing challenges as critical knowledge, decisions and workflows become fragmented across chats, meetings and disconnected tools, the company said. Ahoy Project addresses this as a conversation-driven, AI-native collaboration layer: it captures context from day-to-day communication to build a searchable enterprise knowledge base and support workflow coordination.

Core capabilities include conversation-based knowledge organization, AI-assisted collaboration and workflow support integrated directly into team communication. Because the platform sits at the layer where work is discussed and decided, it can serve as the foundation for a broader AI-native operating model – with Novum Studio designing and delivering the surrounding transformation solution for each enterprise client.

Ahoy (Popeye AI) turns everyday team conversations into a searchable enterprise knowledge base.
Ahoy (Popeye AI) turns everyday team conversations into a searchable enterprise knowledge base.

A New Direction for Social Technology

Novum Studio said its expansion reflects a broader shift across the technology industry. Platforms such as TikTok and Instagram defined how content was distributed and consumed in the mobile social era; as AI becomes embedded in digital products, the company believes the next stage will center less on feeds and more on intelligent systems that understand communication and coordination.

“We are no longer just building products where people post content,” Anna Danyi said. “We are building systems that understand how humans communicate and operate together.”

Hashtag: #NovumStudio #AhoyProject #Frog

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

About Novum Studio

Novum Studio is the technology company behind Frog, a Gen Z social app with more than 20 million users across the U.S. and Europe. The company is expanding into enterprise AI with Ahoy Project, providing the infrastructure and tailored solutions that enable organizations to become AI-native.

AdaKami Builds Clean Water Access and Proper Sanitation for Residents of Dusun Banjarsari, South Lampung

JAKARTA, Indonesia, July 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In fulfillment of its commitment to deliver meaningful societal impact, PT Pembiayaan Digital Indonesia (AdaKami) partnered with digital fundraising platform BenihBaik.com to construct clean water and sanitation facilities in Dusun Banjarsari, South Lampung. Through the AdaKami Peduli program, the initiative funded an 80-meter-deep borewell serving as the primary clean water source.

Data from the Lampung Provincial Government indicates that South Lampung Regency’s clean water demand in 2026 is projected to reach approximately 1,900 liters per second—the fourth highest in Lampung Province¹. This substantial demand necessitates adequate, accessible clean water and proper sanitation infrastructure, particularly for Dusun Banjarsari residents. The AdaKami Peduli program provides access to water pump installations, storage tanks, distribution networks, and sanitation facilities.

Workers install a large blue water tank on a structure as part of the AdaKami Peduli initiative to provide clean water access in Dusun Banjarsari, South Lampung
Workers install a large blue water tank on a structure as part of the AdaKami Peduli initiative to provide clean water access in Dusun Banjarsari, South Lampung

Serving 37 households with a total population of 122 people, these facilities enable residents to access clean water previously scarce, especially during dry seasons. The program also fosters a healthier, more comfortable environment for the local community.

Bernardino Vega, CEO of AdaKami, stated this assistance distribution represents AdaKami’s tangible environmental and social responsibility toward addressing community challenges.

“We hope the facilities constructed in Dusun Banjarsari will not only meet daily needs but also enhance public health quality over the long term,” said Bernardino Vega.

Soleh, a Dusun Banjarsari resident, shared, “Previously, residents waited extended periods just to fill one water jug, and the water was poor quality and odorous. At our mosque, water was insufficient, let alone for surrounding residents without water sources. During dry seasons, we fetched water from even farther distances. Now, residents access abundant, quality water without dry season concerns. Friday prayers and religious activities have increased since water shortages are no longer feared.”

Andy F. Noya, CEO & Founder of BenihBaik.com, commended AdaKami’s dedication to providing clean water for Dusun Banjarsari residents. He added, “Clean water and proper sanitation are fundamental needs forming the foundation for health, productivity, and improved quality of life. We hope this program’s benefits endure long-term and become a source of hope for Dusun Banjarsari households.”

Through the AdaKami Peduli initiative, AdaKami reaffirms its commitment to ongoing societal contribution. By constructing clean water access and proper sanitation, AdaKami aims to deliver sustainable positive impact while inspiring collaborative efforts to enhance community quality of life across Indonesia.

About AdaKami

Founded in 2018, AdaKami is a fintech lending company in Indonesia. AdaKami is committed to empowering communities to achieve their financial goals by providing accessible and affordable loans. AdaKami bridges the gap between traditional financial services and individuals who previously had limited access to credit.

AdaKami is operated by PT Pembiayaan Digital Indonesia, an Indonesian legal entity licensed and supervised by the Financial Services Authority (OJK).

For more information, please visit www.adakami.id.

[1] Department of Communication, Informatics and Statistics of Lampung Province (2025) Projection of Clean Water Needs for Lampung Province Year 2025-2029

 

Shorter Trips, More Meaningful Experiences: OZO Taps into the Rise of Micro-trips Across Asia-Pacific

From spontaneous seaside escapes to culture-filled city breaks, OZO makes it easier for travellers to recharge, explore and enjoy more of what they love—even when time is limited


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2026 – As travellers across Asia-Pacific increasingly look for greater flexibility and balance in the way they travel, shorter and more frequent getaways are becoming a popular alternative to waiting for one long annual holiday. Enabled by convenient regional connections and destinations within easy reach of major cities, these micro-trips allow travellers to recharge, reconnect and discover somewhere new without the need for extensive planning.

OZO Micro-trip (5)

Rather than rushing between attractions or following packed itineraries, many travellers are choosing to experience a destination at their own pace—exploring local neighbourhoods, cafés, food, culture and communities. Even a few days away can offer a meaningful change of scenery and the opportunity to return home feeling refreshed.

Responding to this evolving travel mindset, OZO, the upper-midscale hotel and resort brand under ONYX Hospitality Group, invites travellers to embrace micro-trips through its “Unpack. Good. Vibes.” philosophy. Combining quality sleep, convenient locations and an easy-going atmosphere, OZO provides a comfortable base from which guests can rest well, step out and make the most of every destination.

Designed around the belief that a rewarding journey begins with feeling well rested, OZO places equal importance on restorative sleep and destination discovery. Thoughtfully designed guestrooms, welcoming hospitality and locations close to beaches, cultural attractions, shopping districts and local neighbourhoods mean guests can spend less time getting around and more time enjoying what they love.

Across Thailand and Malaysia, each OZO property offers a distinctive starting point for a micro-trip.

For a seaside escape that combines relaxation with the lively atmosphere of Phuket, OZO Phuket is located just 150 metres from Kata Beach. Guests can begin the day by the sea before discovering neighbourhood cafés, Kata Night Market and scenic viewpoints nearby. Back at the hotel, SPLASH swimming pool, Prego Italian restaurant, EAT and THIRST Pool Bar make it easy to continue enjoying the day without having to venture far.

At OZO Chaweng Samui, travellers can slow down and embrace island life from a beachfront location on Chaweng Beach. Mornings can begin with a walk along the shore, followed by visits to Fisherman’s Village, waterfront cafés and local markets. At the end of the day, guests can return to the Beach Bar for sunset drinks before enjoying a restful night in a guestroom designed around quality sleep.

Within easy reach of Bangkok, OZO North Pattaya offers a convenient coastal break for travellers seeking a mix of beach time, local food, shopping and shared experiences. The hotel connects guests with North Pattaya Beach, Terminal 21 Pattaya, the Naklua community and Lan Pho Market. After exploring the city, they can cool off at SPLASH swimming pool, spend time together at BIG CHILL or relax over food and drinks at EAT and THIRST Pool Bar.

In Malaysia, OZO George Town Penang provides an ideal base for a culture-filled city break. Guests can explore the UNESCO World Heritage streets of George Town, discover street art and local cafés, sample Penang’s renowned food and visit landmarks including Armenian Street, Chew Jetty and Penang Hill. Back at the hotel, the rooftop swimming pool offers a relaxing setting overlooking the city skyline.

For families, OZO Medini makes it easier to turn a few days away into quality time together. Located close to LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort, Puteri Harbour and X Park, the hotel places guests within convenient reach of Johor’s leading family attractions. After a full day out, families can unwind by the swimming pool, enjoy a meal at EAT or return to comfortable guestrooms designed to help everyone recharge.

Together, these destinations demonstrate that meaningful travel is not defined by the length of a holiday, but by how travellers choose to experience it. A micro-trip might mean walking along the beach at sunrise, discovering a neighbourhood restaurant, exploring heritage streets or simply spending uninterrupted time with family and friends.

This approach reflects ONYX Hospitality Group’s wider brand platform, “More of What You Love”, which encourages guests to create journeys shaped by their individual interests. Across its portfolio, the Group continues to connect accommodation with dining, local culture and destination experiences, giving travellers more ways to enjoy the things that matter most to them.

Supported by ONYX Rewards, the Group’s loyalty programme, members can also enjoy exclusive benefits at participating properties, making frequent regional getaways even more rewarding.

Whether it is a spontaneous weekend by the sea, a food-focused city break or a few fun-filled days with the family, OZO demonstrates that travellers do not need a lengthy holiday to create lasting memories. Sometimes, all it takes is a few days away, a good night’s sleep and the freedom to discover more of what they love.

Hashtag: #ONYXHospitalityGroup

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

About ONYX Hospitality Group

ONYX Hospitality Group, a reputable force in the Asia-Pacific hospitality industry, operates a collection of comprehensive yet complementary brands – Amari, OZO, Shama and Oriental Residence – catering to the distinctive needs of discerning business and leisure travellers across the region where it has deep expertise. In addition to its brand portfolio, ONYX Hospitality Group also operates additional hospitality services across spa and food & beverage. With six decades of management experience, the company extends its innovative solutions throughout the region, upholding internationally recognised standards and ensuring optimal operational manoeuvrability. By fostering enduring relationships with like-minded business partners, ONYX Hospitality Group delivers unparalleled experiences in a dynamic and competitive market, meeting the ever-evolving demands of travellers.

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The Philippines: A New Growth Opportunity in Southeast Asia

MANILA, Philippines, July 24, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Southeast Asia has become one of the world’s most dynamic regions for consumer growth, with the Philippines emerging as one of its most promising consumer markets. With a population of over 100 million, a young consumer base, a rapidly developing modern retail sector, and growing consumer demand, the country is creating new opportunities for the freshly prepared beverage industry. Compared with markets such as Indonesia, Vietnam, and Malaysia, where the freshly prepared beverage sector has already entered a stage of large-scale development, the Philippine market is still in a growth stage and therefore offers greater room for expansion. Against this backdrop, MIXUE—an international freshly prepared beverage brand with established operating systems across several Southeast Asian markets—is continuing to deepen its presence in the Philippines.

Local MIXUE Stores in the Philippines
Local MIXUE Stores in the Philippines

For many Filipino consumers, MIXUE is still a relatively new name. Globally, however, it has grown into one of the world’s largest freshly prepared beverage brands by store count, with nearly 60,000 stores worldwide and more than 5,000 stores outside China. Southeast Asia has become a core region in the brand’s global expansion.

However, what has truly driven MIXUE’s sustained growth is not simply its store count, but the integrated business and operational capabilities it has built over many years. Over the years, MIXUE has developed an integrated operating system covering product research and development, raw material supply, intelligent manufacturing, warehousing and logistics, cold-chain distribution, digital operations, and standardized store management. From core ingredients to end stores, and from manufacturing to supply chain management, every stage is continuously optimized around quality, efficiency, and standards. This system not only ensures product consistency but also enables MIXUE to continuously serve consumers worldwide and support stable operations on a large scale.

For the freshly prepared beverage industry, an individual beverage can be imitated and a store format can be replicated. However, building a mature supply chain system and the management capabilities required to support the stable, long-term operation of tens of thousands of stores worldwide takes years of sustained investment. This is MIXUE’s true core competitiveness.

Signature Events of MIXUE in the Philippines
Signature Events of MIXUE in the Philippines

Beyond its industrial capabilities, standardized operations are equally fundamental to MIXUE’s long-term success. The company maintains consistent standards across product quality, food safety, store design, and customer service while continuously driving product innovation to enhance the overall consumer experience.

At the same time, the Snow King character has become a key part of MIXUE’s brand identity. Through its youthful, approachable, and energetic image, Snow King builds emotional connections with consumers across different countries and regions, strengthening the brand’s international communication and appeal.

More importantly, this development model has already been thoroughly validated across Southeast Asia.

In recent years, MIXUE has established a mature regional operating system in Indonesia, achieved large-scale expansion in Vietnam, and continuously strengthened its supply chain and operational capabilities in Malaysia. Although each country presents different market conditions, they have followed a similar growth path: increasing brand awareness, continuous supply chain improvement, stronger local teams, greater operational efficiency, and ultimately the development of a stable and sustainable business ecosystem. This demonstrates not only the sustainability of MIXUE’s business model but also the ability of its Southeast Asian markets to share supply chain resources, operational expertise, and management experience, creating greater regional synergy and efficiency.

A truly international consumer brand creates value beyond selling products.

Signature Events of MIXUE in the Philippines
Signature Events of MIXUE in the Philippines

As MIXUE continues to expand, it creates local employment opportunities, develops local talent, and supports the growth of related upstream and downstream industries, including logistics and transportation, warehousing and distribution, store construction, and equipment maintenance—creating lasting value for the local business ecosystem. Across several Southeast Asian markets, the brand actively participates in corporate social responsibility initiatives, including community programs, educational support, and disaster relief. For example, during the floods in Thailand, MIXUE worked with its partners to donate disaster-relief supplies; in Indonesia, it continues to participate in community programs and youth employment support; and in Vietnam, it actively carries out campus and community outreach activities. For MIXUE, business development and social responsibility go hand in hand. A brand committed to long-term development must not only create commercial value but also continue giving back to the communities where it operates and grow together with local communities.

Today, as Southeast Asia attracts increasing attention from international brands, MIXUE stands out not only for the scale of its global presence, but also for its mature value-chain capabilities, supply chain capabilities, standardized operating capabilities, and a development system validated across multiple markets. These capabilities constitute the most important long-term competitive strengths of an international consumer brand.

Signature Events of MIXUE in the Philippines
Signature Events of MIXUE in the Philippines

The Philippines: The Next Chapter of Growth Begins Here

The Philippines remains one of Southeast Asia’s most promising markets for freshly made beverages, offering significant opportunities for long-term growth.

For MIXUE, the Philippines is not a market waiting to be tested—it is an important part of the company’s Southeast Asian regional strategy. The development of its markets in Indonesia, Vietnam, and Malaysia has already demonstrated that a brand’s lasting success does not come from short-term expansion, but from long-term investment, a mature supply chain system, and the ability to create lasting value.

Looking ahead, MIXUE will continue to bring the integrated business capabilities, operational experience, and brand-building expertise it has accumulated across Southeast Asia to the Philippines. By growing together with local consumers, business partners, and wider Philippine society, MIXUE aims to create more employment opportunities, expand opportunities for business cooperation, and deliver lasting social value to the Philippines.

The Philippines has a promising future, and so does MIXUE’s development in the country. This represents more than an international brand continuing to deepen its presence in a vibrant new market—it also marks the beginning of a new chapter in the Philippines for a development model that has already been validated across Southeast Asia.

From Mexico to Hong Kong, Jose Manuel Cervantes Sanchez is Building Bridges Through Media at CUHK


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2026 – As the media industry becomes increasingly global and interconnected, students are seeking education that spans cultures and markets. For Jose Manuel Cervantes Sanchez, a scholarship recipient from Mexico, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) offers a platform to do exactly that.

Jose Manuel Cervantes Sanchez is Building Bridges Through Media at CUHK
Jose Manuel Cervantes Sanchez is Building Bridges Through Media at CUHK

Hong Kong: A Strategic Hub for Global Media

Currently enrolled in CUHK’s Global Communication programme, Jose is part of a growing wave of international students choosing Hong Kong for its strategic role as a cultural and commercial gateway between East and West. Long fascinated by Asian culture and influenced by family ties to the city, he was drawn to its unique position as a bridge between cultures. “I wanted to become a local with time and create bridges between Mexico and Hong Kong,” he said.

A school adviser first introduced him to CUHK as a strong option, and while he also considered universities in Canada and the United Kingdom, Hong Kong remained his first choice. Receiving the CUHK University Admission Scholarship confirmed his decision.

Academic Excellence and Creative Exploration

Jose’s experience in the Global Communication programme has met his expectations and more. What stands out most to him are the creative courses, which give students hands-on access to professional media equipment and the freedom to experiment. “Being encouraged to explore creativity by some professors has led me to discover new sides of myself,” he noted.

Outside the classroom, Jose has embraced life in Hong Kong with enthusiasm. From cultural events and student society gatherings to exploring local food streets, he has found the city lively and inspiring. The campus MTR station also makes it easy to travel to Shatin, Hong Kong Island, and even the Shenzhen border, adding to the convenience of student life.

A Creative Career Taking Shape in Hong Kong

Looking ahead, Jose hopes to take part in a semester exchange and a media production internship to further strengthen his practical skills. His post-graduation plans remain open, with possibilities in both Mexico’s rapidly growing entertainment industry and Hong Kong’s dynamic market.

For international students considering their options, Jose’s message is clear: CUHK offers academic quality, financial support, and a valuable foothold in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.

CUHK’s Global Communication Programme

CUHK’s Global Communication programme prepares students for an evolving media landscape by combining communication studies with a guaranteed overseas exchange and a curriculum built around real-world experience.

  • Cutting-Edge Facilities: Access to a 4K-UHD Virtual Set Studio, Digital Radio Studio, and VR Lab.
  • Guaranteed Global Exchange: One semester at a partner university in Asia, Europe, or North America.
  • Hands-On Learning: Real-world experience through journalism projects and overseas study tours.
  • International Classroom: A 1:1 ratio of international to local students with all courses taught in English.

For more information about CUHK’s Global Communication programme, visit https://admission.cuhk.edu.hk/programme/gcomn/
Hashtag: #CUHK

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

Singapore’s Largest Pet Event Returns Bigger Than Ever with Singapore Pet Festival 2026

Featuring Cesar Millan’s Singapore Debut, Over 300 Exhibitors, 800+ Brands, International Competitions, and Four Halls of Pet Experiences


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2026 – Pet lovers can look forward to the return of SG Pet Festival 2026, Singapore’s largest pet exhibition, happening from 31 July to 2 August 2026 at Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre, Halls A, B, C & D.

Spanning across four exhibition halls, this year’s festival promises its biggest edition yet, bringing together over 300 exhibitors representing more than 800 local and international brands. Visitors can expect an exciting three-day celebration filled with shopping, education, competitions, interactive experiences, exclusive launches, and entertainment for pets and their families.

“Singapore Pet Festival has always been about bringing the pet community together while creating opportunities for brands, businesses, and pet lovers to connect. As the festival continues to grow, we are committed to raising industry standards, supporting education, and introducing new experiences that benefit both consumers and businesses. This year’s festival is our biggest and most exciting edition yet, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to Marina Bay Sands,” said Angie Lim, Managing Director of Citrus Media.

Event Highlights

Cesar Millan Makes His Singapore Debut
One of this year’s biggest highlights is the highly anticipated Singapore debut of world-renowned dog behaviour expert Cesar Millan.
Visitors can look forward to exclusive live sessions, stage appearances, and limited-capacity private workshops. For just $98 per session, pet owners can enjoy an intimate learning experience, gaining practical insights into dog behaviour, training techniques, and the opportunity to learn directly from the world-famous “Dog Whisperer.”
Fans can also choose from specially curated experience packages. The $68 Meet & Greet Package includes a photo with Cesar and a live autograph session, where he will sign the exclusive collectible merchandise included with your ticket. Collectors can also purchase the Exclusive Cesar Millan Collector’s Pack for $50 during the Early Bird promotion, available until 30 July. The pack includes a pair of autographed coasters.

Shop, Save & Win

Visitors can enjoy:

  • $30,000 worth of Cash Rebates & Lucky Draw Prizes
  • Exclusive event-only product launches, promotions, and deals
  • Official TikTok LIVE shopping sessions featuring exclusive festival promotions and participating exhibitors
  • Complimentary Limited Edition Singapore Pet Festival Tote Bag (while stocks last)
  • Complimentary themed photobooth print-outs for qualifying spenders
  • Exclusive giveaways and brand activations throughout the festival

Singapore’s Largest Pet Marketplace

With over 300 exhibitors showcasing 800+ brands, visitors can explore the latest products and services for dogs, cats, birds, small animals, aquatics, and more.
A specially curated Food Street featuring 18 food booths will also offer a delicious selection of food, refreshing beverages, and indulgent desserts, giving visitors plenty of dining options throughout the festival.

International & Industry Highlights

Singapore Pet Festival continues to strengthen its position as a leading regional pet event by welcoming exhibitors and industry professionals from across Asia.

Highlights include:

  • International exhibitors from across Asia, including the Japan Pavilion and Korea Pavilion
  • Singapore’s first International Society of Canine Cosmetologists (ISCC) Grooming Certification & Competition
  • The 8th TICA Cat Show, featuring pedigreed cats and renowned breeders
  • National Dog Obedience Competition, featuring Singapore’s top obedience teams in a live showcase of skill and teamwork supported by Pets Enterprises & Traders Association Singapore (PETAS)
  • International judging panels and industry experts

Dedicated Experiences for Every Pet Lover

Visitors can enjoy:

  • A dedicated Hall D for Cats & Small Animals, showcasing curated brands, activities, and live animal displays, including birds, guinea pigs and chinchillas
  • Interactive pet-friendly activities and experiences
  • Exclusive themed pet photo shoot experiences

Education & Community

Beyond shopping, Singapore Pet Festival aims to educate and connect the pet community through:

  • Educational talks, workshops, and live demonstrations
  • Meet-and-greet opportunities with veterinarians, trainers, groomers, and industry professionals
  • Animal welfare groups hosting on-site adoption drives, giving rescued animals the opportunity to find loving forever homes while promoting responsible pet adoption
  • A platform connecting pet owners, businesses, and animal lovers across the region

Exclusive Media Preview

Ahead of the public opening, invited media representatives, content creators, VIP guests and industry partners will enjoy exclusive early access to Singapore Pet Festival 2026 during the VIP Preview Session on Friday, 31 July, from 10:00 AM.

The preview offers creators a first-hand shopping experience, early access to new product launches and exclusive deals, opportunities to create content before the crowds arrive, and networking with brands and fellow creators.

Hashtag: #clubpets #sgpetfestival #petevents #petexpo #petfair




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About Singapore Pet Festival

Organised by Citrus Media, Singapore Pet Festival is Singapore’s largest pet exhibition, bringing together pet owners, businesses, brands, professionals, and animal lovers under one roof. Through education, innovation, community engagement, and meaningful collaborations, the festival continues to promote responsible pet ownership while supporting the growth of the regional pet industry.

About Citrus Media

Citrus Media Pte Ltd is a Singapore-based events and media company dedicated to connecting communities through innovative exhibitions, digital media, and lifestyle platforms. The company is the organiser of flagship events including Singapore Pet Festival (SGPF), Singapore Cat Carnival, Blissful One-Stop Wedding Show (BOWS), and operates the Clubpets ecosystem, comprising Clubpets Marketplace, VIPaws Membership Programme, and digital media channels. Citrus Media is committed to creating meaningful experiences that bring together consumers, brands, and industry partners.