HANGZHOU, China, April 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The arch-covered bridges in China’s Zhejiang Province are cultural treasures of the world. Unfortunately, being constructed from wood, they are highly vulnerable to fire hazards. Now, thanks to Hikvision, one of these — the world-famous Lanxi Bridge — is safer than ever before.

Built at the end of the 16^th century, the Lanxi Bridge is the largest single-span ancient covered bridge in China. Like the others, Lanxi Bridge is constructed with zero nails or steel, using traditional Chinese mortise and tenon joints. These designs have been recognized by UNESCO for their global contribution to culture.

A single spark can destroy centuries

At 5:30 a.m., 75-year-old Wang Jiawu begins his daily routine. For three decades, he has patrolled the Lanxi Bridge, tirelessly checking for damage, weathering, and hidden dangers. Sometimes, he does this four times a night.

However, not all bridges are as fortunate as the Lanxi Bridge. In August 2022, the millennial Wan’an Bridge in Fujian was reduced to ashes in a blink. “I was extremely shocked,” recalls Chen Huacheng, head of the Cultural Heritage Protection Institute of Qingyuan County.

After learning cultural heritage protection in college, he returned to his hometown and endeavored to protect these ancient bridges. Here, he faced a stark reality: Qingyuan has over 130 ancient covered bridges, but only a handful of these have guardians like Wang Jiawu. “Wooden bridges are fragile,” he says. “A single spark can easily erase hundreds of years of history.”

Modern innovation preserves ancient legacy

Learning of the situation, Hikvision offered to support this treasured yet fragile bridge with its STAR Program for Social Good. Through this program, Hikvision offers technological support to NGOs dedicated to community, nature and culture. This is how, in 2024, the Lanxi Bridge underwent a ‘digital rebirth’.

Several Hikvision technologies were used to protect the bridge against fires. Multispectral fire detectors are installed at four locations to ensure comprehensive protection of the entire bridge. These detectors enhance visible and thermal imaging technologies with infrared flame detection, enabling them to penetrate darkness and detect even the slightest temperature anomalies. Meanwhile, the fire prevention solution can automatically alert individuals smoking on the bridge to stop and immediately notify conservators to conduct onsite inspections.  

A letter to tomorrow

“The Hikvision technologies provide assurance for our conservation work, and also relieve the pressure on our conservators,” said Chen. “By integrating Hikvision’s fire prevention technology with traditional craftsmanship, we ensure that these treasures are well-preserved and will be passed on to future generations.”

Check out our video to see how Hikvision supports local conservators in preserving the Lanxi bridge.

～New 13-Story Property Offers Comfortable Stays, Scenic Dining, and Signature Japanese Hospitality!～

KAGOSHIMA, Japan  , April 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hotel Oriental Express Kagoshima Tenmonkan officially opened today (April 15, 2025) in the heart of Kagoshima’s largest downtown district. Just a five-minute drive from Kagoshima Chuo Station and 55 minutes by bus from Kagoshima Airport, the hotel offers a convenient and comfortable stay as a base for business travelers, tourists, and leisure guests alike.

The 13-story hotel features 165 guest rooms in a variety of styles with thoughtfully designed amenities for extended stays. Guests can unwind in a spacious public bath infused with artificial carbonated spring water—long valued in Japan for its calming and restorative properties. Additional facilities include a fitness room and a convenient on-site laundry. In the lobby where a lush green wall creates a calming atmosphere, you can find a 24-hour welcome service of freshly ground coffee and a wide variety of teas.

Located on the top floor, BLUE KITCHEN and SOLID BAR offer sweeping views of Sakurajima and Kinko Bay. Inspired by the vibrant blues of Kagoshima’s sky and sea, BLUE KITCHEN serves a breakfast buffet featuring 40 different dishes. The menu blends classic morning staples with local favorites—Chicken Rice, Deep-Fried Sweet Potato, and Sakurajima Chicken—while inventive options like Chicken Rice Pho-Style, Build-Your-Own Pancakes, and Croffle Benedict bring a creative twist to the start of your day.

SOLID BAR offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with natural wood accents and a front-row view of the “Blue Hour,” when the sky and sea merge in soft twilight hues. Guests can unwind as the bartender crafts each drink with care, from local shochu and seasonal fruit cocktails to mocktails and premium whiskeys—setting the stage for an evening of relaxed conversation and connection.

Hotel Oriental Express blends peace of mind, safety, hospitality, quality, and beauty based on its brand concept “Essence of Nippon”. As the fifth Oriental Express brand hotel, the Kagoshima Tenmonkan property aims to be a welcoming hub connecting travelers with the city, its people, and its culture and enriching every stay with a distinctly local touch.

https://tenmonkan.hotelorientalexpress.com/

• About Oriental Hotels & Resorts

Oriental Hotels & Resorts, operated by Hotel Management Japan, is distinguished by its dedication to providing guests with unique and memorable accommodation experiences. The franchise, which includes the sub-brands “Oriental Hotel” and “Hotel Oriental Express”, operates 16 hotels throughout Japan, totaling 4,169 guest rooms. The brand focuses on creating distinctive experiences by establishing hotels that become integral parts of the local community and serve as tourist destinations in their own right.

The CLUB ORIENTAL loyalty program is an added advantage for guests, offering a selection of attractive benefits and exclusive plans without any admission or membership fees, further enhancing the guest experience.

-Home Page: https://www.oriental-hotels.com
-Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070068335069
-Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oriental_hotelsandresorts
-YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@orientalhotelsandresorts
-X：https://twitter.com/Oriental_HR
-CLUB ORIENTAL: https://www.oriental-hotels.com/club-oriental/

• About Hotel Management Japan

Hotel Management Japan, Co., Ltd, has a robust portfolio of 24 hotels (7,671 rooms) in Japan and a workforce of 3,370 employees. In addition to their proprietary brands Oriental Hotel and Hotel Oriental Express, they also operate a variety of international brands such as Hilton, Sheraton, and Hotel Nikko. (Information as of April 2025.)

KOBE, Japan, April 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — RX Japan is back with its much-anticipated jewellery show, International Jewellery Kobe (IJK) 2025, set to take place from May 15-17 at the prestigious Kobe International Exhibition Hall.

As Western Japan’s largest mid-year jewellery show, IJK 2025 is poised to welcome over 15,000 global visitors, reinforcing its reputation as a must-attend event for aficionados worldwide. This gathering not only highlights the finest in their craftsmanship but also serves as the perfect platform for cultural exchange and innovation within the industry.

Top-Notch Creativity and Craftsmanship

IJK 2025 is set to become a melting pot of cultures and creativity, with exhibitors and visitors from Japan and around the world. This international gathering will feature a diverse array of jewellery offerings, including Japan’s newest and most sophisticated designs, crafted with the country’s renowned delicate and cutting-edge technology.

The event will also showcase a stunning variety of diamonds, from fine coloured diamonds like yellow, pink, and black, to competitively priced diamond jewellery in various sizes and colours. This diversity ensures that there is something for every taste and budget, making it a essential destination for industry professionals and connoisseurs.

Gemstones and Pearls

Gemstone enthusiasts will be delighted by the extensive selection of precious and semi-precious stones, including emeralds, rubies, sapphires, jades, corals, and tourmalines. The show will also feature striking multi-coloured crafted gemstone jewellery, offering a visual feast for attendees.

As Kobe is affectionately known as the “Pearl City,” visitors can expect a wide selection of pearls, with leading Japanese pearl companies presenting akoya, south sea, freshwater, mabe, conch, and keshi pearls. This focus on pearls not only highlights Kobe’s rich heritage but also underscores the city’s pivotal role in the global pearl industry.

Japan: A Jewel in the Global Market

Japan, ranked third globally in jewellery market value is a testament to its rich history and expertise in jewellery making. The country’s commitment to quality and innovation is evident in the exquisite pieces that will be on display at IJK 2025.

RX Japan’s strategic decision to host IJK in May, alongside the International Jewellery Tokyo (IJT) in January and IJT Autumn in October, underscores this commitment.

“By hosting IJK in the mid-year, we provide a unique platform for international and domestic exhibitors to showcase their latest collections and innovations,” said Mr. Yoshihito Waki, IJK Show Director. “This timing allows us to cater to the evolving needs of the global jewellery market and strengthen our position as a respected trade show outside Japan.”

What to Expect at IJK 2025

IJK 2025 will feature over 460 exhibitors and more than 880,000 of the latest jewellery pieces, offering spectacular opportunities for the 14,000 expected buyers to source exquisite jewellery and forge valuable business connections.

Attendees can expect to see a wide range of products, from traditional designs to contemporary pieces that push the boundaries of creativity. The event will also provide a platform for networking and knowledge exchange, with industry experts sharing insights on the latest trends and innovations in the jewellery world.

A Unique Opportunity for Buyers and Collectors

For buyers and collectors, IJK 2025 offers a unique opportunity to discover new trends and source high-quality jewellery from around the world. The event’s diverse range of exhibitors ensures that attendees will have access to a wide variety of products, from classic pieces to avant-garde designs.

This makes IJK 2025 an essential destination for anyone looking to expand their collection or find unique pieces that reflect their personal style.

Join Us in Kobe: A City of Culture and Innovation

Kobe, with its rich history and vibrant culture, provides the perfect backdrop for this prestigious event. Known for its beautiful landscapes and culinary delights, the city offers visitors a unique blend of tradition and modernity. As you explore the wonders of IJK 2025, take the time to discover all that Kobe has to offer, from its stunning architecture to its world-renowned cuisine.

Don’t miss the chance to be part of this extraordinary event. Register now to secure your place at International Jewellery Kobe 2025 and experience the best of the global jewellery industry in the heart of Japan’s Pearl City.

Visit www.ijt.jp/kobe/en-gb.html for more information.

About IJT Series Shows  

IJK is part of the IJT Series, a trio of prestigious events occurring thrice each year (Tokyo in January, Kobe in May, and Yokohama in October). Celebrated for their exquisite assortment of diamonds, gemstones, and pearl jewellery, the IJT Series Shows offer a dynamic platform for industry professionals to connect, discover, and prosper.  www.ijt.jp/hub/en-gb.html

About RX (Reed Exhibitions)   

RX is in the business of building businesses for individuals, communities, and organisations. We elevate the power of face-to-face events by combining data and digital products to help customers learn about markets, source products, and complete transactions at approximately 350+ events in 25 countries across 42 industry sectors. RX is passionate about making a positive impact on society and is fully committed to creating an inclusive work environment for all our people. RX is part of RELX, a global provider of information-based analytics and decision tools for professional and business customers. www.rxglobal.com  

About RX Japan  

RX Japan organises 106 exhibitions, composed of 415 sub-exhibitions, annually at large exhibition halls such as Tokyo Big Sight, Makuhari Messe, and Intext Osaka across a wide variety of 38 fields, including jewellery, fashion, gift items, electronics, energy, IT, cosmetics, and medical. Visit the RX Japan website for more details.  

CONTACT  

Shiraishi, Natsuko 
Email: visitor-eng.ijt.jp@rxglobal.com 
Phone: +81-3-6739-4103  

NQXT is a highly efficient and cash generating asset that will consolidate APSEZ’s presence along the East-West trade corridor, in line with its global expansion strategy

Editor’s synopsis

• North Queensland Export Terminal (NQXT) is a critical export gateway for producers in resource-rich Queensland, Australia and has current capacity of 50 MTPA.
• NQXT has an identified pathway and capability to grow throughput up to 120 MTPA to meet the global demand for Queensland’s high quality resources including for potential green hydrogen exports.
• NQXT handled its all-time high cargo at 35MMT in FY25.
• APSEZ will benefit from incremental EBITDA margin in excess of 90%.
• NQXT EBITDA to grow to A$ 400 million within 4 years.
• NQXT lease has a long remaining life of 85 years until year 2110.
• As part of a non-cash transaction, APSEZ will issue 14.38 crore equity shares under preferential allotment route to the seller, which will result in a net increase of 2.13% in promoter group holding.
• The transaction will further enhance APSEZ’s global transport and logistics footprint and fast track it’s journey to handle 1 billion tonnes per annum by 2030.
• NQXT comes with an excellent ESG track record with minimal environmental footprint, diverse workforce, strong safety standards, 50% operational spend with local and regional suppliers.

AHMEDABAD, India, April 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Board of Directors of Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd. (APSEZ), India’s largest integrated Transport Utility company has approved the acquisition of Abbot Point Port Holdings Pte Ltd (APPH), Singapore from Carmichael Rail and Port Singapore Holdings Pte Ltd, Singapore (CRPSHPL). CRPSHPL is a related party.

APPH holds the entities which own and operate the North Queensland Export Terminal, a dedicated export terminal with a current nameplate capacity of 50 million tonnes per annum (MTPA). The terminal is located at the Port of Abbot Point, approximately 25 km north of Bowen, in North Queensland on Australia’s east coast.

The transaction will be completed on a non-cash basis. APSEZ will issue 14.38 crore equity shares to CRPSHPL, in exchange for acquisition of 100% interest in APPH. This is based on enterprise value of NQXT of A$ 3,975 million. As part of the transaction, APSEZ will also assume other non-core assets and liabilities on APPH’s balance sheet, which APSEZ will realize within a few months of the acquisition (zero net impact on the transaction valuation). APSEZ’s leverage will remain at similar levels post the transaction.

Speaking on the acquisition, Mr. Ashwani Gupta, Whole-time Director & CEO, APSEZ, said, NQXT’s acquisition is a pivotal step in our international strategy, opening new export markets and securing long-term contracts with valued users. Strategically located on the East-West trade corridor, NQXT is poised for robust growth as a high-performing asset, driven by increased capacity, upcoming contract renewals in the medium term, and the potential for green hydrogen exports in the long term. We are targeting EBITDA growing to A$ 400 million within 4 years. I am proud to welcome NQXT to our ‘Growth with Goodness’ initiative, as it exemplifies our commitment to high standards in environmental, social, and governance practices.”

About NQXT

NQXT, is a natural deep-water, multi-user export terminal with a nameplate capacity of 50 million tonnes per annum. NQXT is located in the Port of Abbot Point, approximately 25 km north of Bowen, in North Queensland on Australia’s east coast. The Port of Abbot Point (within which NQXT is located) has been declared as a Strategic Port and a Priority Port Development Area by the Queensland Government¹. NQXT is under a long-term lease from the Queensland Government and is a critical infrastructure asset supporting Australia’s significant resource industry. NQXT provides strategic access to currently eight major customers under long term “take or pay” contracts. NQXT’s operations contributed A$ 10 billion to Queensland’s Gross State Product and facilitated 8,000 jobs across mining and other industries².

During FY25, NQXT had a contract capacity of 40MMT and handled all-time high cargo volume of 35MMT. The weighted average mine life the NQXT’s current users is c. 60 years. Cargo from NQXT was exported to 15 countries including 88% to Asia and 10% Europe. NQXT posted FY25E A$ 349 million revenue and EBITDA of A$ 228 million (incremental EBITDA margin in excess of 90% for APSEZ, excluding pass-through O&M cost included in the revenue).

Key rationale for the NQXT acquisition

• A fully operational multi-user export facility which provides strategic access to resource producing customers, with demonstrated operating history of over 4 decades.
• High quality customer base which operate in the Bowen and Galilee mining basins and produce high-quality metallurgical and energy coal for export to over 15 countries globally.
• Poised for EBITDA growth on the back of growing contracted capacity, renewal of existing contracts and further group synergies under APSEZ’s global transport and logistics platform.
• Strategic fit with APSEZ’s strategy of global expansion and leverage on the potential for future green hydrogen exports from the Port of Abbot Point, in line with the Queensland Government’s strategy.

ESG

Since the commencement of operations in 1984, NQXT has been on a journey of continuous improvement and sustainability. With zero reportable environmental incidents during FY25, zero fatalities, and a lost time injury frequency rate of 1.7, operations at the terminal have delivered excellent safety standards. The business has been extensively involved in community development with 50% of FY25 operational spend with local and regional suppliers and A$ 2.4 million spent since 2017 on community initiatives in Bowen and Collinsville. Over 5% of the terminal’s workforce identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander, higher than proportion of First Nations people in the Australian population. 

Transaction Advisors

Cyril Amarchand Mangaldas acted as legal counsel for APSEZ. Ashurst acted as International legal counsel for APSEZ. GT Valuation Advisors Private Limited acted as the Registered Valuer and Grant Thornton Bharat LLP conducted desktop financial review. SBI Capital Markets Limited also acted as an independent valuer, including for RBI / FEMA compliances.

The transaction is subject to requisite approvals, including from Reserve Bank of India (RBI), shareholders, Foreign Investment Review Board of Australia and is expected to close in two quarters.  

About APSEZ

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ), a part of the globally diversified Adani Group, has evolved from a port company to an Integrated Transport Utility providing end to-end solutions from its port gate to customer gate. It is the largest port developer and operator in India with 7 strategically located ports and terminals on the west coast (Mundra, Tuna Tekra & Berth 13 in Kandla, Dahej, and Hazira in Gujarat, Mormugao in Goa, Dighi in Maharashtra and Vizhinjam in Kerala) and 8 ports and terminals on the East coast (Haldia in West Bengal, Dhamra and Gopalpur in Odisha, Gangavaram and Krishnapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, Kattupalli and Ennore in Tamil Nadu and Karaikal in Puducherry), representing 27% of the country’s total port volumes, thus providing capabilities to handle vast amounts of cargo from both coastal areas and the hinterland. The company is also developing a transshipment port at Colombo, Sri Lanka and operates the Haifa Port in Israel and Container Terminal 2 at Dar Es Salaam Port, Tanzania. The Ports to Logistics Platform comprising port facilities, integrated logistics capabilities, including multimodal logistics parks, Grade A warehouses, and industrial economic zones, puts it in an advantageous position as India stands to benefit from an impending overhaul in global supply chains. The company’s vision is to be the largest ports and logistics platform in the world in the next decade. 

¹ under the Queensland Sustainable Ports Development Act of 2015.

² https://nqbp.com.au/about-us/economic-impact

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, April 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Dreaming of Safari wild adventure just a short trip from home? Taman Safari Indonesia brings the thrill of an authentic African-style safari right to you! Visit us at MATTA Fair 2025 on 19 April 2025, get Special Offers and discover why Taman Safari is the perfect adventure getaway, just a short direct flight from Malaysia. This event will increase the number of visits from Malaysian tourists and will contribute positively to the Government of Indonesia’s efforts in enhancing the nation’s image as a premier international tourism destination.

A Safari Adventure Across Indonesia – From Jakarta to Bali

Discover Taman Safari Indonesia, with parks across Jakarta to Bali, each offering unforgettable experiences. For an underwater escape in the city, visit Jakarta Aquarium & Safari with Aqua trekking and underwater dining. For those seeking a more immersive safari experience head to Taman Safari Bogor, Enjoy a drive-thru safari, a magical Night Safari and a relaxing stay at the nature-inspired Safari Resort Bogor. Families will also love exploring the Enchanting Valley, known for its iconic Super Wheel, Lila’s World playground, and endless outdoor activities.

Don’t miss the Varuna Show and Bali Agung Show at Marine Safari Bali, where culture meets wildlife magic. Taman Safari Indonesia also promises limitless joy and adventure across its other parks, such as Taman Safari Prigen in East Java, Solo Safari in Central Java, and Beach Safari Batang, where each destination offers distinctive safari experience shaped by their unique natural landscapes

A Safari Getaway Closer Than You Think

With a short direct flight from Malaysia, Taman Safari Indonesia offers a convenient and exciting escape into the wild which is perfect for weekend getaways or family holidays. It’s a destination where unforgettable adventures meet warm hospitality, vegetarian-friendly dining, and accommodation that brings you closer to nature.

“We are excited to welcome Malaysian travelers to experience the magic of Taman Safari. With our rich biodiversity, thrilling adventures, and warm Indonesian hospitality, we promise an unforgettable journey for all ages,” said Alexander Zulkarnain, SVP of Marketing, Taman Safari Indonesia.

Through these visits, Taman Safari is committed to strengthening regional relations while showcasing Indonesia’s excellence in wildlife conservation, environmental education, and high-quality tourism services.

Start planning your ultimate safari escape today! Visit https://tamansafari.com for more information.