HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — From 9 to 11 January 2025, Vietjet’s senior leadership team visited the United States to meet strategic partners from around the world as part of the “Friends of Vietnam Summit” held atPalm Beach, Florida.
VietJet inaugural US Flight
The delegation arrived in Miami on Vietjet’s inaugural flight to the United States. The flight, named “Hello America!” and operated by a wide-body aircraft, marks a significant milestone for Vietjet and underscores its commitment to strategic cooperation with the U.S.
Vietjet has become a key pillar of U.S.-Vietnam economic collaboration, with its trade partnerships contributing to job creation for American workers. Vietjet has strategic agreements worth nearly USD50 billion with leading corporations such as Boeing, GE, CFM, Pratt & Whitney, and Honeywell. Additional agreements worth approximately USD14 billion are under negotiation. Vietjet also collaborates with leading technology companies, including Microsoft, Amazon Web Services, Apple and Google. The airline is in discussions with SpaceX and several other providers of in-flight internet solutions to support its extensive fleet of hundreds of aircraft, driving high-tech workforce development and ushering in a new era of innovation in fields including semiconductor technology, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and big data.
“The strategic partnerships Vietjet has forged in the U.S. reflect our deep commitment to strengthening the economic bridge between the two nations,” stated Madame Nguyen The Phuong Thao, founder of Vietjet and a leader of some of Vietnam’s most successful corporations. “We are proud that Vietjet’s growth not only directly contributes to job creation for American workers and advances technological progress, but also promotes Vietnam’s economic development.”
In 2017, during an official visit to Vietnam, then-President Donald Trump witnessed the signing of Vietjet’s initial order for 100 Boeing 737 Max aircraft. At his suggestion to double the order, Vietjet finalized a deal for a total of 200 aircraft. In 2025, the first year of President-elect Trump’s second term, Boeing will deliver the first 14 of these aircraft to Vietjet.
With robust commitments from strategic partners in this new phase of development, Vietjet continues to deliver affordable fares and high-quality services while building bridges between people, cultures, and creating business opportunities worldwide.
The Company’s green hydrogen, sustainable formaldehyde production, photovoltaics, multi-energy storage, and seawater desalination solutions lead the way in realistic and certifiable feasibility practices for a greener planet.
ABU DHABI, UAE, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Shanghai Electric (SEHK:2727, SSE:601727) showcased its cutting-edge sustainable development technologies and innovative green solutions at the World Future Energy Summit held in Abu Dhabi from January 14-16, 2025. Under its Create Our Future Together banner, the Company fully demonstrated its strengths and steadfast commitment to helping global energy transformation with its green energy and resource innovations.
World Future Energy Summit 2025: Shanghai Electric Showcases Sustainable Development Technologies for Clean Energy and Seawater Resource Utilization
In green hydrogen, the Bristack-Z1000 alkaline electrolyzer showcased breakthroughs in flexible support and efficient gas-liquid transmission, offering low energy consumption, high electrical density, wide load, and fast response. At 2500 A/m2, its DC power consumption is 12% lower than industry standards and TÜV Rheinland-certified.
Shanghai Electric’s sustainable formaldehyde production technology features pure oxygen pressurized gasification, fluidized bed gasification, and tar high-temperature conversion. The system is energy-efficient, compact, and offers high capacity, flexibility, and reliability. By integrating volatile wind and solar energy, it significantly reduces carbon emissions, promoting a more sustainable production process.
Creator 210R series photovoltaic heterojunction module features high efficiency, bifaciality, and a low temperature coefficient, making it a next-generation monocrystalline solar panel. Its innovative silicon wafer structure and manufacturing process break through traditional efficiency limits, capturing light in weak conditions. Paired with an intelligent tracking photovoltaic bracket, it adjusts to maximize energy intake. The Company’s other technologies include phase-shifting island equipment for the Peñasco photovoltaic station in Mexico, tower wireless heliostat technology for Dubai’s solar project, and the 100MW/100MWh REP1&2 energy storage station in the UK.
High Inertia Synchronous Condenser With Flywheel from the Company is China’s first phase-shifting product of a commercial and household energy storage system to be exported internationally. It enhances grid flexibility by balancing supply and demand, ensuring power system reliability and stability. With kinetic energy reaching 140 MW/s and an inertia time constant of 11.2 seconds, it delivers rapid response and short-term capacity. Shanghai Electric offers expertise in energy storage cells, smart control, and system integration, including feasibility studies, construction, operation, and battery recycling. Applications range from short-term and long-term energy storage to distributed and household solutions, providing a full lifecycle lithium battery system for maximum customer value.
The 3rd generation desalination technology addresses the Middle East and North Africa’s looming water crisis with its third-generation thermal film coupling technology that enhances heat transfer efficiency, reduces energy use, and combines thermal and membrane methods to cut water production costs and land use. The system produces large volumes of fresh water daily, with energy consumption under 2 kWh per ton and an annual utilization rate exceeding 95%. This technology supports sustainable development by easing water shortages in coastal areas, supplying industrial clusters, and expanding water resource boundaries with eco-friendly solutions.
TSUKUBA, Japan, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Scientists from the Research Center for Materials Nanoarchitectonics (MANA) have integrated machine learning with traditional materials science to expedite the discovery of kesterite-type thermoelectric materials, paving the way for efficient energy conversion technologies.
Kesterite-type materials, like Cu2ZnSnS4, are promising thermoelectric (TE) materials that convert waste heat into electricity. These non-toxic materials are composed of abundant, easily accessible elements and exhibit a figure of merit (zT), a quantity level that measures thermoelectric efficiency, of greater than 1 at temperatures between 300 and 800K (26 to 526C). Around 500K, kesterites undergo a transition from an ordered cationic structure to a disordered one, which affects their TE properties significantly. However, identifying optimal manufacturing conditions is time-consuming and requires multiple experiments.
Researchers from MANA used machine learning to accelerate this process. In just four experimental cycles, they optimized the sintering process, improving the thermoelectric performance of Cu2.125Zn0.875SnS4 by 60%. The study was led by Dr. Cedric Bourges from the International Center for Young Scientists, along with Guillaume Lambard from the Center for Basic Research on Materials as well as Naoki Sato, Makoto Tachibana, Satoshi Ishii, and Takao Mori from MANA, NIMS, Japan.
The researchers employed Active Learning with Bayesian Optimization (ALMLBO), which analyzes sintering parameters–such as heating rate, sintering temperature, holding time, cooling rate, and applied pressure–alongside thermoelectric properties obtained from experiments. This approach recommended new experimental conditions, and the process was repeated until the thermoelectric properties improved, indicated by a stabilized zT.
The team began with data from 11 samples prepared using spark plasma sintering, combining copper, zinc, tin, and sulfur powders under partial vacuum. The ALMLBO model predicted sintering conditions that achieved a record maximum zT of 0.44 at 725K. “This method showcases how integrating machine learning with traditional materials science accelerates discovery and optimization in complex material systems,” say the authors. This approach has the potential to be extended to other materials, enabling rapid innovations in photovoltaics, batteries, and electronics.
The recent theater adaptation of the hit drama receives exceptional response during multi-city tour
BEIJING, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On January 12, iQIYI, China’s leading online entertainment platform, concluded the multi-city tour of its stage adaptation “Mysterious Lotus Casebook” with a final performance in Beijing. The production marks another milestone in the company’s innovative IP development strategy, showcasing iQIYI’s growing success in transforming popular content into diverse entertainment formats that engage broader audiences.
The stage adaptation draws from one of iQIYI’s biggest hits of 2023, a martial arts mystery series that captivated viewers with its fast-paced storyline and richly developed characters. The series quickly dominated the ratings chart, surpassing a content popularity index of 10,000 on the platform and earning a nomination at the 29th Shanghai TV Festival’s Magnolia Awards.
Staying true to the series’ beloved elements while crafting a fresh theatrical experience, the production tells the gripping story of a once-renowned swordsman whose quiet life is disrupted when a determined young man and an old rival pull him back into the martial arts world to unravel a series of puzzling mysteries. The production enhances this narrative through innovative stage design that blends traditional Chinese aesthetics with modern elements, bringing the series’ iconic scenes to life with unique cultural motifs that resonate deeply with audiences.
The production has generated substantial social media buzz, with trending searches on Weibo, China’s leading social media platform, and thousands of enthusiastic audience reviews, as it toured multiple cities in China, including Hangzhou, Xi’an, Chengdu, and Beijing. Following this strong reception, iQIYI plans to expand the tour to additional cities in 2025. This achievement adds to iQIYI’s track record in stage adaptations, which includes the theatrical version of “The Bad Kids,” another project launched after the drama series’ phenomenal success.
IP-Driven Strategy Demonstrates Strong Commercial Value
Beyond the stage, “Mysterious Lotus Casebook” has demonstrated remarkable commercial potential across multiple channels. Sales of its IP-based merchandise have reached RMB80 million (US$11 million), featuring a product line of over 1,300 SKUs, such as collectible cards, badges, model toys, and themed accessories that incorporate key elements from the series.
The IP has further expanded its offline presence through tourism partnerships, notably with Suyun Thirteen Gardens in Jiangsu Province and Hengdian World Studios in Zhejiang province, where iconic scenes have been recreated to provide immersive experiences for visitors.
“In recent years, iQIYI has consistently strengthened its premium content offerings by delivering hit dramas and animations, while expanding these entertainment IPs across our increasingly mature ecosystem,” said Xiaohui WANG, iQIYI’s Chief Content Officer. “Through diverse offline experiences and consumer touchpoints, we continue to maximize the long-term value of our IPs and deepen audience engagement.”
As one of the leading innovators in entertainment IP monetization, iQIYI plans to further strengthen its portfolio in 2025 by launching new original IP while expanding established ones such as “Mysterious Lotus Casebook” and “Strange Tales of Tang Dynasty.” The company will also celebrate key milestones throughout the year with launches of innovative IP-based merchandise and co-branded initiatives that meet evolving consumer trends.
SURABAYA, Indonesia, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Prepare to be captivated. The Westin Surabaya‘s Lunar New Year celebration in 2025 promises an evening of exceptional grandeur and festivity with their annual performance entitled “The Beauty of China.” Held within the expansive The Westin Grand Ballroom and Convention Center, East Java’s largest ballroom, this event invites guests on a mesmerizing cultural journey, complemented by an exquisite family gala dinner and the time-honored Yee Sang tradition.
The Beauty of China 2025 at The Westin Surabaya
A Riveting Display of Artistic Excellence
“The Beauty of China” transcends the typical Lunar New Year presentation. It is a sophisticated showcase of Chinese arts and cultural heritage, presented with contemporary flair. “Imagine yourself transported by the enchanting melodies of distinguished Chinese singers, the dynamic artistry of traditional lion dances, and the breathtaking aerial grace of sling dancers suspended within the ballroom’s majestic heights. The culmination of the performance will be a grand musical production featuring over 180 performers, enhanced by spectacular LED visuals, dramatic lighting, and a deeply moving narrative,” explains Tessa Zelyana, Complex Marcomm Manager of The Westin Surabaya and Four Points by Sheraton Surabaya, Pakuwon Indah.
An Unforgettable Family Gala Dinner
The Lunar New Year is a cherished occasion for family gatherings. The Westin Surabaya recognizes the significance of this tradition and has curated a refined family gala dinner. Guests will savor a meticulously crafted set menu by the Westin Culinary Team, showcasing authentic Chinese flavors with a touch of modern elegance. The curated selection of dishes, from appetizers to desserts, will enhance this special evening. The symbolic Yee Sang tradition will further enrich the celebration, bestowing blessings and prosperity for the year ahead.
Tessa Zelyana adds, “As this marks the 18th iteration of ‘The Beauty of China,’ we are honored to welcome many returning guests who have loyally followed the show’s evolution. While cherishing this legacy, we are also committed to presenting fresh and engaging elements, ensuring an unforgettable Lunar New Year experience for all generations.”
For inquiries regarding pricing, accommodation packages, and reservations for “The Beauty of China,” please contact The Westin Surabaya at (+6231) 297 10000 or visit the official Instagram @westinsurabaya.
About Westin® Hotels & Resorts
Westin Hotels & Resorts, hospitality’s global leader in well-being for more than a decade, empowers guests to transcend the rigors of travel while on the road through the brand’s Six Pillars of well-being: Sleep Well, Eat Well, Move Well, Feel Well, Work Well, and Play Well. At more than 240 hotels and resorts in over 40 countries and territories, guests can benefit from distinct wellness experiences including the brand’s iconic and award-winning Heavenly® Bed, signature WestinWORKOUT® offerings such as its 24/7 Fitness Studios, WestinWORKOUT Routes, and its versatile Gear Lending program featuring the latest in recovery and strength training from Hyperice and Bala, delicious and nutritious menu offerings on their Eat Well menu, and more. For more information, please visit www.westin.com and stay connected on X, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Westin is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.
About Marriott Bonvoy®
Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands and 10,000 global destinations, offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable locations around the world. The award-winning travel program and marketplace gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.
The Chinese New Year Festival has been Recognized as Part of UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity
A 150-Million-Baht (US$ 4.35 Million) Investment to Honor the 50-Year Milestone, Featuring Breathtaking Sculpture Exhibition, Cultural Displays and Performances, and a Vibrant Chinese Street Market.
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 January 2025 – ICONSIAM, a global landmark on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, developed by Siam Piwat Group, Magnolia Quality Development Corporation, and Charoen Pokphand Group is commemorating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and the People’s Republic of China with unparalleled Chinese New Year 2025 celebration. With an investment of over 150 million Baht(US$ 4.35 million), ICONSIAM is hosting two monumental events to kick off 2025—a groundbreaking “Lancang to ChaoPhraya” sculpture exhibition starting from January 15, 2025. In addition, a grand Chinese New Year celebration, set to captivate millions of visitors from around the world, will feature, for the first time, the enshrinement of 60 Tai Sui deities—guardians of fortune representing all birth years—allowing visitors to seek blessings for the Year of the Snake. Attendees can also enjoy the special “Dragon of Two Lands” performance, symbolizing the unity of the Naga and the Dragon, along with a cultural dance from Changsha, China. The festivities will unfold amidst the “Little China” street market, offering over 35 famous shops from across Thailand with food, travel and shopping for 10 days from January 24 to February 2, 2025. The event is expected to attract over 2 million visitors worldwide.
ICONSIAM A Prosperous Chinese New Year 2025
Mr. Supoj Chaiwatsirikul, Managing Director of ICONSIAM Co., Ltd., stated “This year marks a significant milestone in Thai-Chinese relations, celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties. ICONSIAM, in collaboration with its partners, presents the exhibition “Lancang to Chao Phraya,” showcasing masterful sculptures that convey the cultural and spiritual connections from the Chinese river to the Chao Phraya river.
The exhibition celebrates this momentous occasion by fostering Thai-Chinese cultural exchange through world-class artwork. Running from January 15 to February 28, 2025, at River Park, ICONSIAM, the highlight of this exhibition is the masterpiece sculpture ‘Chubby Woman with Dragon & Naga,’ created through the first-ever collaboration between Thailand’s National Artist ‘Dr. Preecha ThaoThong’ and a prominent Chinese artist ‘Mr. Xu Hong Fei,’ famous for his iconic “chubby woman” sculptures. This exceptional creation symbolizes the deepening bond between the two nations, offering a complete and profound cultural exchange,” said Mr. Supoj.
Furthermore, ICONSIAM has also joined forces with government entities, including the Ministry of Culture and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), as well as private partners such as KASIKORNBANK, SOOKSIAM, and leading Chinese associations, solidifying its reputation as a Global Destination that attracts visitors from around the world for every festival.
“ICONSIAM is investing over 150 million baht (US$ 4.35 million) in celebrating these two significant occasions. Kicking off the first quarter of the year, the events commemorate the 50th anniversary of Thai-Chinese diplomatic relations and the Chinese New Year. It is expected that 2 million visitors, including both Thais and tourists from around the world, will attend the 10-day event, with a projected 20% increase in consumer spending within the shopping complex compared to the previous year,” Mr.Supoj concluded.
The ICONSIAM A Prosperous Chinese New Year 2025 Key Highlights Include:
A Grand Performance to Celebrate 50 Years of Thai-Chinese Diplomatic Relations This grand celebration will dazzle with a spectacular performance honoring the strong ties between the two nations. The auspicious occasion begins with a special performance featuring the majestic “Drums of Prosperity,” followed by the breathtaking “Two Nations Dragon Dance,” symbolizing the union of the Naga and the Dragon, in honor of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Thailand and China. Witness an extraordinary cultural performance from Changsha City, a nationally acclaimed showcase from the People’s Republic of China. Enjoy exclusive entertainment activities and surprises, including an exclusive opening ceremony performance by the hottest on-screen duo, Zee and Nunew, on Friday, January 24, 2025, starting at 5:00 PM.
Blessings and Prayers for Prosperity from the 60 Deities of Tai Sui For the first time ever, the 60 deities of Tai Sui, guardians of fortune representing all birth years from the historic Renwei Temple in Guangzhou, China, over a thousand years old. Each deity corresponds to a specific birth year and is believed to bring good fortune when properly honored. Visitors can pay respects and seek blessings for a smooth and prosperous year ahead.
“Little China” – A Traditional Chinese Walking Street with Over 35 Famous Stalls Visitors can explore the “Little China” walking street, where they can enjoy a variety of auspicious foods along the Chao Phraya River’s most scenic dragon bend. Notable Michelin Guide restaurants, such as Hia Wan Khao Tom Pla, will offer their celebrated dishes, including crab porridge, salmon salad, and grilled squid. Delight in dishes from nine different Chinese associations in Thailand, such as Hokkien buns, dim sum, and dumplings.
Food for Good Fortune from Thailand’s Four Regions at “SOOKSIAM” Savor symbolic dishes representing good fortune, including “Roast Pig,” a symbol of abundance and gratitude, “Roast Duck” for wealth and sincere love, and “Longevity Noodles” for long life. Other delicious offerings include “Golden Pork” (crispy pork), and “Steamed Grouper with Lime.” Guests can also enjoy cultural performances such as face-changing mask performance, Chinese dance, a unique blend of Muay Thai and Chinese acrobatics performance, and a Lion Dance are just some of the spectacular performances to enjoy.
A Must-Visit Photo Spot at ICONSIAM’s River Park Visitors are invited to take photos in the dazzling Chinese lantern displays at River Park, where ICONSIAM has transformed the area into three stunning lantern rooms:
Harmonious Prosperity and Longevity: Featuring red lanterns symbolizing prosperity and happiness, adorned with Thai floral patterns.
Harmonious Heritage and Future: A fusion of Thai-Chinese heritage, with immersive lighting and the elements of earth, water, wind, and fire.
Harmonious Blessings and Fortune: A reflective lantern room featuring auspicious blessings in Thai, Chinese, English, Korean, Japanese, and Arabic.
The public is invited to experience this breathtaking celebration and take unforgettable photos from today until March 15, 2025.
Be part of the Chinese New Year celebration at the “ICONSIAM A PROSPEROUS CHINESE NEW YEAR 2025: A Festive Celebration of 50 Years of Thai-Chinese Relations” from January 24 to February 2, 2025, at River Park, ICONSIAM. Stay updated via ICONSIAM’s Facebook:www.facebook.com/ICONSIAM/ or on ICONSIAM’s official LINE account: @ICONSIAM. For further inquiries, please call 1338. Hashtag: #ICONSIAMCNY2025 #ICONSIAMaProsperousChineseNewYear2025 #ICONSIAM
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About ICONSIAM
Located on the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, ICONSIAM is a global landmark and a major force in strengthening Bangkok’s position as one of the world’s most desirable destinations. This mega city project includes two glamorous retail complexes, two world-class waterfront residential condominium buildings and the ‘Seven Wonders at ICONSIAM’.
ICONSIAM combines the best of the world with the best of what Thailand has to offer, bringing together, art, culture, global luxury lifestyle pursuits, fine dining, ultra-luxury residences, and the ultimate shopping experience into a single destination. Developed by Siam Piwat group, Magnolia Quality Development Corporation, and Charoen Pokphand Group, it opened in 2018 and has since been driven by the core values of ‘co-creation and shared value for sustainability’ — creating value for all stakeholders through mutual business growth.
SINGAPORE, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Gravity Game Hub (GGH) PTE.LTD, a subsidiary of GRAVITY Co., Ltd. (NasdaqGM: GRVY) began pre-registration for its widely anticipated AFK mobile game, Ragnarok Idle Adventure Plus.
Ragnarok Idle Adventure Plus is a new Idle RPG mobile game featuring a colorful 3D Fantasy world background and content that embodies Ragnarok’s unique ambience. Embark on a journey through the vast and vibrant world of Midgard, encountering iconic characters and legendary monsters from the beloved Ragnarok Online franchise.
President of Gravity Game Hub (GGH), Harry Choi said, “Ragnarok Idle Adventure Plus is an easy-to-play RPG which provides comfort in the MMORPG gaming experience, yet provides unique story and vast content that represent the Ragnarok’s atmosphere.” he said. “As the game will be available world widely, to improve user accessibility for global market, Ragnarok Idle Adventure Plus applied 6 language options, which are English, Chinese (Simplified), Thai, Indonesian, Spanish, and Portuguese.“
Gravity Game Hub has lined up a series of enthralling pre-registration rewards that will be unlocked as more players join the adventure. Here’s what you can look forward to:
300 GP: Unlocked upon 50,000 pre-registrations
5x Moon Key & 2x 1Hr AFK Main Character Exp: Unlocked upon 100,000 pre-registrations
1x Blue Scuba Goggles Blueprint: Unlocked upon 200,000 pre-registrations
5x Stardust Key & 1x Purple Pet Egg: Unlocked upon 300,000 pre-registrations
1x Windup Spring Blueprint: Unlocked upon 500,000 pre-registrations
These rewards will provide a head start in your journey, offering unique items and bonuses that enhance gameplay experience.
Stay connected and keep-up with the latest Ragnarok Idle Adventure Plus news and events through the official website and social media pages below:
Established in 2021, Gravity Game Hub (GGH) Pte Ltd is a game publisher and developer focusing on online and mobile games. Gravity Game Hub is committed to delivering an interactive gaming experience and creating a dynamic community for all players in South East Asia.
https://www.iconsiam.com/e
