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“Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) National Bookshelf” Gets an Upgrade, with Four New Renowned University Sites


QINGDAO, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 July 2025 – The 2024 Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) National Publishing Industry Conference, successfully hosted by Qingdao Publishing Group, has injected new momentum into the “SCO National Bookshelf” project.

SCO National Bookshelf - Russia
SCO National Bookshelf – Russia

After successfully establishing six landmark cultural spaces in Qingdao last year, the project has achieved significant overseas expansion this year, with four new bookshelf locations at prestigious institutions: Saint Petersburg State University of Economics in Russia, Al-Farabi Kazakh National University in Kazakhstan, Tribhuvan University in Nepal, and Royal University of Agriculture in Cambodia. This overseas expansion has significantly enhanced the international influence of the “SCO National Bookshelf” as a cultural exchange platform for SCO member countries.

Meanwhile, with the active coordination and resource integration of Qingdao Publishing Group, the newly added overseas sites have formed an effective cultural linkage mechanism with the local bookshelves in Qingdao. Several bookstores jointly hosted SCO member countries-themed book fairs and “Reading Festival” events. The activities were diverse, covering book displays, photography and painting exhibitions, as well as VR experiences, vividly showcasing the cultural heritage, customs, history, technological achievements, and economic successes of SCO member countries. These events provided citizens with rich channels to learn about SCO countries.
Hashtag: #QingdaoPublishingGroup

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

Vat Phou Featured on National Geographic as Hidden Gem in Southeast Asia

Vat Phou Champasack (Photo: Tourism Laos)

Vat Phou, an ancient temple in Laos’ Champasack Province, has been featured in a National Geographic Travel article as a hidden gem for travelers seeking serenity, history, and beauty without the crowds. 

This UNESCO-listed site was praised for its “striking resemblance to Cambodia’s Angkor Wat” but with a quieter, more intimate experience.

In the article, the National Geographic draws attention to Vat Phou’s unique architectural and spiritual qualities, describing it as a “travel dupe” for Angkor Wat. While Cambodia’s iconic temple attracts some six million tourists a year, Vat Phou remains a relatively untouched site.

Background Similarities

Both temples were constructed during the Khmer Empire, which spanned from the 9th to 15th centuries, and share distinctive elements such as carved stone pillars and religious symbolism rooted in Hindu cosmology. 

However, the National Geographic article points out that their layout sets them apart. 

Angkor Wat features concentric enclosures symbolizing Mount Meru, the mythical center of the universe, while Vat Phou is laid out in a linear design along a one-mile raised causeway, leading visitors up a hillside to a sanctuary fed by a natural spring.

This ascending pathway, broken into seven stone terraces, was highlighted as a key reason for Vat Phou’s spiritual impact. 

The design allows travelers to experience a slow climb through sacred structures, culminating in a moss-covered shrine adorned with carvings of apsaras and Hindu deities. 

Originally housing a linga symbolizing the god Shiva, the shrine later came to feature a Buddha statue after the decline of the Khmer Empire in the 13th century.

History, Myth, Solitude Intertwined

National Geographic also pointed to Vat Phou’s setting as a distinguishing feature. 

The temple complex sits at the base of Lingaparvata, or Linga Mountain, named for its phallus-shaped peak associated with Shiva. 

Just four miles from the town of Champasak, with its architecture and riverside, Vat Phou is seen as easily accessible, providing a rare laid-back feeling.

The article also touched on the site’s mysterious origins. 

While its full history is still unclear, local legend says King Kammatha built the first sanctuary after mythical ogres demanded his daughter, Nong Sida. A small pavilion and hidden library named after the princess still stand nearby.

Annual Celebration Embracing the Tradition of Vat Phou Festival

Beyond its archaeological significance, the temple continues to serve as a spiritual center and a gathering place for celebration.

Vat Phou is revered by many Lao people as a sacred site believed to possess protective powers. It continues to serve as a destination for worship and cultural tourism.

Each year, Champasack Province hosts the Vat Phou Festival to celebrate the temple’s legacy. The festival featured a wide variety of traditional and casual activities, catering to both local and international visitors.

According to the National Geographic, it’s the combination of history, mythology, and near-complete solitude that makes Vat Phou one of the region’s most underrated sacred sites.

Xayabouly Province Home for 220 Registered Domestic Elephants

Xayabouly Province Home for 220 Registered Domestic Elephants
Elephants (photo credit: Lao Sky)

Xayabouly Province is currently home to 220 registered domestic elephants. Of these, 143 are actively working within the province, while the others are active in different areas outside the province, Kenthao district deputy governor Somsy Saophila noted during a meeting on 3 July.

Wishpro Launches Advanced Magnetic Infusion Technology for Smarter Skin Management


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 July 2025 – In a world flooded with skincare promises, most products barely scratch the surface. Wishpro launches its first patented Magnetic Infusion Technology (MIT) system, engineered to deliver visible skin transformation. Wishpro embraces the power of oil-based actives — an often-overlooked yet essential approach in our humid and changing climate. While many products focus on water-based formulas, Wishpro’s oil-based serums help strengthen the skin barrier, improve moisture retention, and offer deeper nourishment without clogging pores. It’s a perfect match for modern skin needs.

Wishpro: The World’s First Magnetic Infusion Skin Management System with Clinically Proven Results
Wishpro: The World’s First Magnetic Infusion Skin Management System with Clinically Proven Results

The Future of Skin Health, Powered by Magnetic Infusion

At the heart of Wishpro is a revolutionary technology: Magnetic Infusion Technology (MIT). Unlike surface-level creams and serums, Wishpro uses electromagnetic pulses to gently open microchannels in the skin, allowing highly active ingredients to reach deeper layers, where real change happens.

Paired with precision-formulated, single-use serum capsules, this synergy of technology and formulation unlocks a new category of skin management: non-invasive, high-performance, and clinically proven.

More Than a Device: A Clinical-Grade Treatment

Wishpro delivers dermatologist-trusted results through four interchangeable treatment heads—Red Light, Blue Light, Microcurrent, and Exfoliation—customizable to meet evolving skin needs.

Watch the full testimonial: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DJq6Mb2s7yJ/?igsh=OGRweDZoOXN6a2hv

This red blood cell activation supercharges the skin’s ability to heal, regenerate, and absorb nutrients, turning every session into a transformation.

Smart Design, Built for Real Life

Wishpro’s signature donut-shaped capsule ensures direct and even contact with the skin, while its compact, ergonomic build makes it lightweight and effortless to use. Wishpro blends clinical-grade performance with everyday convenience each treatment takes only 15 minutes, making it the ideal solution for those who want fast results without disrupting their routine.

Targeted Serum Capsules, Powered by Science

Wishpro offers a suite of 13 RFID-enabled serum capsules, each formulated to treat specific concerns—from dullness and hyperpigmentation to acne, sensitivity, and visible aging.

Each capsule is:

  • Clinically formulated with powerful active ingredients
  • Individually sealed for hygiene and safety
  • Designed for maximum absorption, activated by Wishpro’s infusion technology

More than just two capsules have demonstrated efficacy and clinical studies. A few highlights include:

  • β-White (Brightening Capsule): A biomimetic peptide that reduces melanin production by up to 79%, with a 30% visible reduction in dark spots within 56 days.
  • Biogomm’age (Peel Exfoliator Capsule): More than just an exfoliator, this capsule features biodegradable, non-irritant safe scrub technology, enriched with Vitamin B5 and Vitamin E. Clinically shown to deliver softer, smoother skin with minimal irritation, it is preferred by 79% of users over traditional scrubs.
  • Neodermyl® (Neo Energy Capsule): Clinically proven to significantly increase collagen density (up to 7.6 times), improve skin firmness by up to 13 times, and visibly reduce wrinkle depth and volume by 15% in just 15–60 days. The hero ingredient, Neodermyl®, is a gold-standard anti-aging molecule with powerful skin rejuvenation effects.

The Wishpro Philosophy: Where Beauty Meets Innovation

Wishpro isn’t just another beauty gadget, it’s a mission to professionalize everyday skincare. The name itself blends “wish” with “professional,” reflecting a brand ethos rooted in real results, proven science, and smart design.

In a world that demands efficacy, hygiene, and time efficiency, Wishpro delivers all three, plus the power to adapt treatments to individual skin needs. It’s a future-ready system that empowers users to take control of their skin journey from the very first session.

Final Thought: Skincare That Doesn’t Just Work, It Works Smarter

Wishpro has redefined what’s possible in non-invasive skincare. Backed by clinical research, global dermatologists, and real users, it offers more than beauty – it offers confidence, credibility, and visible transformation.

For more information, contact: +65 6292 0100, or visit www.wishproasia.com.
Hashtag: #Wishpro

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

Japan’s Genre-Defying Creative Mixed Media Unit NIKO NIKO TAN TAN to Perform at Japan Expo Paris 2025


PARIS, FRANCE – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 July 2025 – NIKO NIKO TAN TAN, the creative mixed media musical unit that transcends genres with their blend of music, visuals, and art, just performed their first-ever live performance in Paris, France on July 3rd at the currently ongoing Japan Expo Paris 2025.

Live Performace

In Japan, they have performed at major festivals such as FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL, SUMMER SONIC, GREENROOM, and OSAKA GIGANTIC MUSIC FESTIVAL. Internationally, they have also made confirmed appearances at EMERGE FEST in Taichung and R-DAY FESTIVAL in Hainan.

Though their stage setup consists of just two members—vocals/synth and drums—they unleash a stunningly groovy sound which, when combined with the VJ visuals perfectly synchronized to the music, results in a space that creates an impactful wave of excitement among the audience, earning them widespread acclaim.

They will perform not only their latest track “G00000W”, but also a selection of their most popular songs.

https://youtu.be/hQGTeU1Jjl4?si=oLwnx2AIuUitlr9V

You can still catch their special playlist exclusive to Japan Expo!
They will be performing live every day on the “TSUBAME STAGE” for the remainder of the Japan Expo.
For performance times from tomorrow onward and ticket information, please check the official website:
https://www.japan-expo-paris.com/fr/

NIKO NIKO TAN TAN Profile

NIKONIKOTANTAN_Artist photo

Formed in 2019, NIKO NIKO TAN TAN is a creative mixed media unit that transcends genres to fuse music, visuals, and art into a unique artistic experience.

The music is created by:

  • OCHAN (Vocals, Synth, etc. / Lyrics, Composition, Arrangement / Illustration)
  • Anabebe (Drums / Arrangement)

VJ and artwork are produced by Drug Store Cowboy (Visuals / Art Director / Motion Graphics), who serves as the unit’s visual producer.

They create their own music, visuals, and art with a genre-defying approach to their alternative sound that seamlessly blends diverse elements without boundaries, making them a true “mixture” unit that births unique and creative soundscapes through their multidisciplinary vision.

They have also built a strong following through numerous appearances at major festivals, including FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL, SUMMER SONIC, GREENROOM BEACH, OSAKA GIGANTIC MUSIC FESTIVAL, and more.

In April 2024, they officially debuted under Victor Entertainment / Getting Better. Their first two-man tour across Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka, including a show at Zepp Shinjuku (TOKYO), was sold out.

In August 2024, they released their first major album, Shinkigeki, followed by the NIKO NIKO TAN TAN ONE-MAN TOUR 2024 “Shinkigeki,” which toured six cities nationwide.

The year 2025 is being celebrated as the “Niko Niko Year” (a play on the numbers 2 and 5), and on the once-in-a-century date 2/5/2025 (Wed) — or “2-5-2-5” — they will hold a special two-man live performance with TESTSET (Yoshinori Sunahara × LEO Imai × Kenichi Shirane × Seiichi Nagai) at Zepp Shinjuku (TOKYO).

Their DJ set project, “微笑坦々” (Hohoemi Tantan), is quickly making waves. Starting in September, they’ll launch a one-man tour featuring stops at Osaka’s Music Club JANUS and Tokyo’s Spotify O-EAST. Stay tuned for exciting updates as the “Niko Niko Year” continues to unfold.

Official HP: https://www.nikonikotantan.com/
Official YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@nikonikotantan7861
Official Twitter: https://twitter.com/NIKONIKOTANTAN_
Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikonikotantan
Official TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nikonikotantanjp
Hashtag: #NIKONIKOTANTAN

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

Drunken Card Game Turns Deadly in Houaphanh, Suspect Reenacts Scene

A card game in Huaphan Province turned deadly after heavy drinking led to a violent fight, resulting in one fatality.

A card game in Houaphanh Province ended in tragedy on 27 March when a night of heavy drinking turned violent, leaving one man dead and another facing criminal charges. Police arrested Tuay, 19, a resident of Ban Kong village, Houaphanh District, on charges of assault causing death.

On 2 July, the man was brought in for a crime scene reenactment as part of the investigation.

According to the authorities, the incident took place on the night of 27 March at the home of a local man named Seng.

Four friends, Tuay, Sak, Tai, and Seng, had gathered to play cards and drink alcohol. As the night progressed, Seng and Tai became heavily intoxicated and went to sleep, leaving Tuay and Sak to continue drinking and gambling.

After consuming a bottle of liquor and four bottles of beer, a dispute broke out when Tuay accused Sak of cheating by switching cards. The argument escalated, and in a drunken rage, Tuay struck Sak multiple times with a stick until he lost consciousness.

Believing Sak had merely passed out, Tuay called a friend to help carry him to a bedroom, then returned to his own home to sleep. The following morning, around 7:00 AM, he was informed that Sak had died from injuries sustained during the fight.

Authorities were notified and arrested Tuay shortly after. Legal proceedings are now underway.

Laos Orders Suspension of Potash Mining Projects in Vientiane Capital

Laos Orders Suspension of Potash Mining Projects in Vientiane Capital

The Lao government has ordered the immediate suspension of potash exploration and mining projects in Vientiane Capital due to serious environmental and safety concerns, including recent land collapses in residential areas.

AIA Hosts Healthcare Financing Summit To Foster Cross-Sector Collaborative Solutions for Hong Kong’s Healthcare Sustainable Future


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 July 2025 – AIA Hong Kong & Macau (AIA) hosted the inaugural Healthcare Financing Summit (the Summit) as an active step towards fostering cross-sector dialogue and collaboration to address the challenges facing Hong Kong’s healthcare system. Held under the theme “Sustainable Healthcare Financing through Partnership”, the Summit brought together a diverse group of stakeholders – including government officials, legislators, regulators, and leaders from the healthcare and insurance industries – to explore collaborative solutions for building a healthcare system that is accessible, affordable, and effective for the sustainable future of Hong Kong.

Caption: Professor Chung-mau Lo, Secretary for Health of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government (centre); Mr Clement Cheung Wan-ching, Chief Executive Officer of the Insurance Authority (right); and Mr Alger Fung, Chief Executive Officer of AIA Hong Kong & Macau (left), officiating the opening at the Healthcare Financing Summit
Caption: Professor Chung-mau Lo, Secretary for Health of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government (centre); Mr Clement Cheung Wan-ching, Chief Executive Officer of the Insurance Authority (right); and Mr Alger Fung, Chief Executive Officer of AIA Hong Kong & Macau (left), officiating the opening at the Healthcare Financing Summit

The event featured distinguished speakers, including Professor Chung-mau Lo, Secretary for Health of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, and Mr Clement Cheung Wan-ching, Chief Executive Officer of the Insurance Authority, who shared their insights on the future of Hong Kong’s healthcare. Discussions focused on the growing challenges of rising healthcare costs, an ageing population, the critical needs to foster price transparency and budgeting for patients, clinical governance in private medical services, and how stakeholders can work together to ensure the long-term sustainability of Hong Kong’s healthcare.

Caption: Alger Fung, Chief Executive Officer of AIA Hong Kong & Macau, delivers the opening address, highlighting the importance of collaboration across sectors to build a more inclusive and sustainable healthcare system for the community and future generations.
Caption: Alger Fung, Chief Executive Officer of AIA Hong Kong & Macau, delivers the opening address, highlighting the importance of collaboration across sectors to build a more inclusive and sustainable healthcare system for the community and future generations.

Alger Fung, Chief Executive Officer of AIA Hong Kong & Macau, said: “It is important for society to continue investing in better healthcare. It represents a growing share of our economy – and an even greater share of our hope for a sustainable and resilient future for all generations.

While Hong Kong’s healthcare system is widely recognised for its professionalism, trust, and exceptional outcomes, it is facing increasing pressure from demographic shifts, medical inflation, and rising demand across both the public and private sectors.

As an insurer deeply rooted in Hong Kong, AIA is committed to supporting our society in overcoming these pressing challenges. We believe that meaningful change begins with collective action, guided by a shared sense of conscience and responsibility. Thanks to the valuable contributions of all participants, this Summit has brought together an alliance in action—marking the beginning of a shared journey towards building a more inclusive and sustainable healthcare system for our community and future generations.

Yet this is only the beginning. The future depends on the continued, purposeful actions of all stakeholders. Together, we can play a pivotal role in shaping a healthcare system that empowers people to live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives.”

Caption: Alice Liang, Chief Proposition and Healthcare Officer of AIA Hong Kong & Macau, presents her topical address, “Healthcare - Insurance Industry Experience”, sharing data-driven observations and insights on the evolving role of insurers in shaping sustainable healthcare financing models.
Caption: Alice Liang, Chief Proposition and Healthcare Officer of AIA Hong Kong & Macau, presents her topical address, “Healthcare – Insurance Industry Experience”, sharing data-driven observations and insights on the evolving role of insurers in shaping sustainable healthcare financing models.
Caption: Distinguished speakers, panelists and guests at the Healthcare Financing Summit hosted by AIA Hong Kong & Macau
Caption: Distinguished speakers, panelists and guests at the Healthcare Financing Summit hosted by AIA Hong Kong & Macau
Caption: The Healthcare Financing Summit bringing together government officials, legislators, regulators, and leaders from the healthcare and insurance industries to explore collaborative solutions for building a healthcare system that is accessible, affordable, and effective for the sustainable future of Hong Kong.
Caption: The Healthcare Financing Summit bringing together government officials, legislators, regulators, and leaders from the healthcare and insurance industries to explore collaborative solutions for building a healthcare system that is accessible, affordable, and effective for the sustainable future of Hong Kong.

Hashtag: #AIA #友邦

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

About AIA Hong Kong & Macau

AIA Group Limited established its operations in Hong Kong in 1931. To date, AIA Hong Kong and AIA Macau have over 18,000 financial planners1, as well as an extensive network of independent financial advisors, brokerage and bancassurance partners. We serve over 3.6 million customers2, offering them a wide selection of professional services and products ranging from individual life, group life, accident, medical and health, pension, personal lines insurance to investment-linked assurance schemes with numerous investment options. We are also dedicated to providing superb product solutions to meet the financial needs of high-net-worth customers.

1 as of 31 March 2025

2 Including AIA Hong Kong and AIA Macau’s individual life, group insurance and pension customers (as of 31 March 2025)