HAIKOU, China, Aug. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from PDDC:
Looking for a different kind of getaway in Hainan, away from the usual coastal sightseeing? Mission Hills Haikou is an outstanding choice. Nestled within volcanic terrain, the resort features golf courses, soothing natural hot springs and a diverse range of attractions. It is a hidden gem integrating sports, wellness and leisure, perfect for family trips, gatherings with friends or laid‑back short vacations.
Step onto the iconic Blackstone Course and immerse yourself in the charm of mountain‑style golf. This professional championship‑grade venue covers 350 acres, stretches over 7,888 yards with a par of 73, and is dotted with 147 distinctive sand traps, delivering professional specifications and ample challenges. Fairways are wrapped in lush greenery amid dense woods. Primitive volcanic rocks scatter across the landscape, where green hills, forests and exotic rock formations create picture‑perfect natural scenery ideal for photos. With wide‑open spaces and fresh woodland air far from urban hustle, every swing feels relaxed and effortless. Built on the age‑old volcanic lava platform of Haikou Yangshan, the course is dotted with ancient lychee trees. Dark basalt rocks interweave with tropical vegetation, preserving Hainan’s one‑of‑a‑kind volcanic mountain landscape. Playing golf here feels like wandering through a natural volcanic ecological park.
Unlike conventional golf venues, Mission Hills Haikou is built on distinctive volcanic rock landforms, delivering a truly unique experience. Its ten courses vary in style and difficulty, showcasing natural grasslands, exposed volcanic bedrock and Australian‑style sand belts. Undulating sand surfaces and natural rock hazards add fun and challenge to every shot. Visitors can enjoy the elegance and thrill of golf while soaking in Hainan’s one‑of‑a‑kind volcanic landscape for both visual delight and rewarding gameplay.
Golf is only part of the diverse, all‑in‑one relaxing holiday experience at Mission Hills. After an energetic round, head to the hotel sky lounge for panoramic views over rolling green hills and the golf courses, and savour peaceful slow moments. Or visit the Volcanic Hot Spring Valley, sink into a warm hot‑spring pool. Home to a Guinness‑certified large‑scale cluster of volcanic mineral‑spring pools rich in natural mineral elements, the valley offers special volcanic grotto hot‑spring pools as well as herbal baths ihonfused with tropical blossoms, allowing guests to fully embrace the wellness gifts brought by volcanic geothermal energy.
Boasting comprehensive, well‑developed facilities, the resort offers high‑quality vacation experiences. It brings together golf, volcanic hot springs, Movie Town, duty‑free outlets and lively food night markets, offering everything you need for dining, entertainment, shopping and wellness in one place. Step into Feng Xiaogang Movie Town, where Nanyang‑style arcade‑house streets recreate the old‑time local vibe of Hainan for an immersive taste of Southeast Asian charm.
Drawing on its outstanding cultural‑tourism resources, Mission Hills Haikou continues to refine its offerings and enhance visitor experiences. It develops diverse, custom‑tailored travel routes adapted to different seasons. Whether you are a golf enthusiast or a traveller seeking slow‑paced wellness retreats, you can find your own perfect holiday joy here.
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 August 2026 – One of the simplest ways to express your love is by spending quality time with the people who matter most. This August holiday, why not invite your mother and family to take a break from the everyday and enjoy a change of scenery together? After all, the true value of travel lies not only in the destination itself, but in the moments shared along the way and the lasting memories created together. Whether it is introducing your parents to the charm of local communities and cultural traditions, discovering the distinctive flavours of each destination, reminiscing over treasured family memories through heartfelt conversations, or simply sharing smiles and laughter while relaxing by the pool, every moment spent together becomes a memory to cherish.
Believing that the best journeys are those shared with the people who matter most, ONYX Hospitality Group, a leading hospitality management company in the Asia-Pacific region specialising in hotels, resorts, serviced apartments, luxury residences, restaurants and spas, encourages families to reconnect and create meaningful moments together this holiday. Through thoughtfully curated experiences designed to bring generations together, each property offers a wide range of on-site activities alongside the unique attractions of its surrounding destination, creating opportunities for families to make every moment together even more meaningful.
Guided by its More of What You Love philosophy, ONYX Hospitality Group’s portfolio of hotels is committed to creating holiday experiences that extend far beyond the guest room. From memorable dining experiences and rejuvenating spa treatments to quality time spent together in the hotel’s shared spaces and opportunities to discover the charm of local communities and cultural heritage surrounding each destination, every journey is thoughtfully designed to be richer and more rewarding. Complemented by the benefits of ONYX Rewards and exceptional dining experiences through ONYX Dining, every stay is made more seamless, more rewarding and more memorable, from the moment guests arrive until they return home.
For families planning a short getaway within Thailand, with the turquoise sea as the backdrop to their ideal holiday, Amari offers meaningful moments of relaxation, creating opportunities to spend quality time with mothers and loved ones alike, whether on the Gulf of Thailand or along the Andaman coast.
Amari Pattaya offers everything families need for a memorable holiday, with accommodation options ranging from one-bedroom rooms to spacious three-bedroom suites accommodating up to six guests, allowing everyone to spend quality time together throughout their stay. At the same time, every generation can enjoy activities tailored to their own interests, whether relaxing at Club Napa, the exclusive lounge on the 19th floor overlooking panoramic views of Pattaya Bay, or letting younger guests enjoy the water park and Tree House Kids Club before coming together again to share memorable dining experiences. From authentic Thai cuisine and international favourites to homemade pasta and poolside bites, dining experience adds another special moment to the family getaway. The day concludes with a rejuvenating treatment at maai spa, where holistic wellness therapies inspired by the beautiful transformation of the silkworm create a deeply restorative experience for both body and mind.
Meanwhile, Amari Hua Hin offers another ideal destination for families wishing to create meaningful moments with their mothers during the holiday. Set within a relaxed seaside atmosphere, the hotel features comfortable accommodation suitable for guests of all ages, a swimming pool, Breeze Spa, and dedicated children’s facilities. Beyond the hotel, families can stroll along the beach, discover local cafés and restaurants, or explore the unique charm of Hua Hin together.
For families seeking a relaxing escape amid the beauty of the Andaman Sea, Amari Phuket is set on a secluded private headland, offering panoramic views across Patong Bay from its guestrooms and suites. The resort’s interiors thoughtfully blend contemporary Thai craftsmanship with a distinctive sense of place, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout the stay. Families can enjoy memorable moments together over authentic Italian cuisine at La Gritta, the resort’s renowned seafront Italian restaurant, or unwind while taking in spectacular ocean views from La Gritta Bar, The Jetty, The TreePod, and Samutr Bar, each offering its own unique ambience. The resort also features two swimming pools, Breeze Spa, and a Kids Club, allowing guests of all ages to enjoy their preferred way of spending time before heading out to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Patong Beach, along with its restaurants and shopping destinations, all just minutes away.
Another excellent choice for a seaside family holiday is Amari Koh Samui, located on Chaweng Beach. Surrounded by natural beauty, the resort offers a range of accommodation options, including spacious two-bedroom suites, along with three swimming pools, Breeze Spa, and activities for children. Families can also enjoy exploring Bophut Fisherman’s Village or discovering the unique charm of Koh Samui together. The resort’s diverse collection of restaurants and bars further enhances every family dining experience, including Amaya Food Gallery, serving Thai and international cuisine through interactive live cooking stations; Amaya Café for coffee, tea and light refreshments; Amaya Bar by the beach; Prego Koh Samui, offering authentic Italian cuisine and pizzas; and Aqua Eatery & Bar, serving beverages and light meals in a relaxed poolside setting.
For families seeking greater tranquillity and a closer connection with nature, Amari Vogue Krabi is located on Tubkaek Beach, one of Krabi’s most peaceful stretches of coastline. Nestled amidst nature at the foot of Dragon’s Crest (Khao Ngon Nak), one of the province’s most renowned scenic viewpoints, the resort enjoys a setting that continues to attract travellers from around the world. Surrounded by the breathtaking Andaman Sea, picturesque offshore islands and lush green mountains, the resort provides an idyllic environment for families to spend quality time together, unwind completely and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. Beyond the resort, guests can discover Krabi’s natural attractions through island-hopping excursions, kayaking adventures, visits to its famous beaches and viewpoints, or explore the local way of life in Krabi Town, with its restaurants, markets and vibrant evening attractions.
Whether it is taking your parents away for a well-deserved change of scenery, spending the holidays with children and grandchildren, gathering with siblings for a special occasion, or reconnecting with friends after a long time apart, ONYX Hospitality Group’s hotels and serviced residences are ready to be part of every meaningful moment. With a diverse portfolio that caters to different destinations, lifestyles and travel preferences, ONYX Hospitality Group believes that the true meaning of travel lies not simply in the places we visit, but in the people we share the journey with and the moments we create together. Bringing More of What You Love to every stay, the Group continues to create memorable travel experiences that matter.
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.
HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 August 2026 – As global institutional capital increasingly redefines value creation in real estate, Vinhomes, Vietnam’s largest listed real estate developer by market capitalization, is emerging as a credible long-term urban development platform.
An aerial perspective of Vinhomes Green Paradise in Can Gio, illustrating the integration of modern urban infrastructure with active ecological restoration to foster long-term environmental resilience.
With a land bank exceeding 295 million square meters, nearly 650,000 residents across its integrated townships, and record equivalent revenue of VND183.1 trillion (US$6.94 billion) in 2025, the company has demonstrated its capacity to plan, finance, deliver and operate large-scale cities with remarkable consistency.
For more than two millennia, humanity has celebrated its greatest achievements through the idea of “wonders,” from the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World to the New7Wonders of Nature, which in 2011 recognized sites such as the Amazon Rainforest and Vietnam’s own Ha Long Bay for their untouched natural beauty.
Today, a fourth wave is emerging: one defined not by human creations set apart from nature, nor by landscapes left untouched, but by developments where urbanization actively enhances natural ecosystems. This philosophy, combined with Vinhomes’ operational scale, has positioned the company at the forefront of that shift, offering global institutional investors a proven model that is gaining recognition across Asia.
Nature-Positive Development Defines Vinhomes’ Urban Philosophy
At the core of Vinhomes’ approach is a fundamental departure from traditional real estate development; the company approaches urban development as an integrated process of environmental enhancement, infrastructure creation and community building.
This philosophy is evident across several landmark projects. At Vinhomes Green Paradise in Can Gio, built on reclaimed coastal land, modern infrastructure coexists with active ecological restoration, creating new living environments while supporting long-term environmental resilience.
At Vinhomes Global Gate Ha Long, the urban masterplan has been designed specifically to complement the UNESCO-recognized Ha Long Bay, one of the world’s most celebrated natural wonders, creating a space where urban life and natural heritage mutually enrich one another.
For institutional investors, this nature-positive orientation reflects a broader strategic shift. Long-term capital is increasingly flowing toward developers capable of creating urban ecosystems that generate value over decades, not merely delivering projects on a transactional basis. Vinhomes’ ability to embed sustainability, ecological regeneration and climate resilience into its masterplans aligns with the evolving expectations of global asset owners seeking both financial returns and environmental impact.
Proven Execution And Operational Scale Build Investor Confidence
In real estate, vision carries little weight without the ability to execute. This is where Vinhomes has established one of its strongest competitive advantages. While many developers concentrate their portfolios within a limited number of cities or regions, Vinhomes has successfully replicated its large-scale urban development model across Vietnam, delivering integrated townships from north to south while maintaining consistent quality, execution speed and operational standards.
The company’s 2025 performance underscores this capability. By year-end, Vinhomes had delivered more than 34,000 apartments, villas and shophouses, achieving record equivalent revenue of VND183.1 trillion (US$6.94 billion), a 29% year-on-year increase that exceeded its annual target. Net profit reached VND43.3 trillion (US$1.6 billion), up 24%, while sales bookings nearly doubled to VND205.3 trillion (US$7.9 billion). Unrecognized contracted sales of VND186.4 trillion (US$7.1 billion) provide exceptional revenue visibility for the years ahead.
Beyond financial metrics, Vinhomes’ operational scale is evidenced by nearly 650,000 residents now living across its developments nationwide, forming one of Southeast Asia’s largest integrated residential communities. This scale demonstrates not only the company’s ability to build projects but also its capacity to create functioning urban ecosystems capable of sustaining long-term economic and social activity.
The company’s land bank, exceeding 295 million square meters as of December 31, 2025, represents Vietnam’s largest and is strategically positioned across major metropolitan areas and regions benefiting from accelerating urbanization, industrial development and tourism growth. This extensive reserve provides a substantial pipeline for future development while supporting sustainable long-term growth.
Vinhomes’ operational excellence is further validated by internationally recognized certifications including ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 and SA8000, reflecting global standards in quality management, environmental performance, occupational health and safety, and social responsibility. The company’s market position, Vietnam’s largest listed real estate company by market capitalization at approximately US$19.4 billion, and the country’s second-largest listed enterprise overall, reinforces its institutional credibility. Its brand, valued at an estimated US$1.6 billion by Brand Finance, ranks among Vietnam’s Top 10 Most Valuable Brands.
For international investors, these indicators point to something larger than financial success alone. They reflect a company that has evolved beyond traditional real estate development into a trusted urban development platform, one capable of planning, financing, delivering and operating large-scale cities with remarkable consistency.
If the first three waves of human wonders celebrated extraordinary achievements of engineering or nature, the emerging fourth wave may well be defined by developments that elevate nature itself, creating places where environmental restoration, economic growth and human prosperity reinforce one another.
That vision demands proven execution, long-term thinking and institutional credibility. These qualities explain why an increasing number of global investors are viewing Vinhomes as one of Asia’s most compelling long-term urban development platforms.
Hashtag: #Vinhomes
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Vinhomes
Vinhomes is Vietnam’s largest residential real estate and integrated township developer. The company pioneers the development of synchronized, modern large-scale townships, delivering premium living standards and unlocking sustainable investment opportunities for domestic and international clients.
Debut of Chef’s Grill, an air-conditioned omakase-inspired eight-course dining experience co-curated with the Singapore Chefs’ Association
Longstanding fan favourites Craft’ B, Slurp Your Oysters, Jett BBQ and DAMN return alongside 18 new vendors across five zones
Marketplace by Indoguna and Sunset Lounge by Asahi introduces premium grilling, golden hour gatherings and new ways to experience the beachfront
Beach-front seating and increased sheltered capacity, new ways to settle in and enjoy the festival by the sea
First-ever useof solar energy to power the air-conditioned Chef’s Grill pavilion and beachfront festival lighting
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 August 2026 – Sentosa GrillFest, Singapore’s favourite beachfront cookout supported by Singapore Tourism Board, returns to Siloso Beach for its ninth edition from 23 July to 16 August 2026. Since its debut in 2017, the festival has welcomed close to 800,000 visitors, and this year’s edition is its most ambitious yet. Featuring 42 vendors across five zones, including 18 new names and a host of returning crowd favourites, guests can look forward to bold new flavours, an elevated beachfront atmosphere, and first-ever dining concepts co-curated with the Singapore Chefs’ Association, all in a festival that welcomes guests of every kind, pets included. From the crackle of open flames and the aroma of food fresh off the grill to the anticipation of the first bite by the sea, Sentosa GrillFest 2026 is designed to be a gastronomic feast for all senses.
Omakase-Inspired Chef’s Grill
Making its debut this year is Chef’s Grill, Sentosa GrillFest’s first-ever eight-course omakase-inspired style beachfront dining experience, created in collaboration with the Singapore Chefs’ Association (SCA). Held in an air-conditioned tent with premium chinaware, the format gives diners a close look at live-fire techniques from a curated roster of Singapore chefs. Three mainstay vendors — Sentosa Golf Club, R&B Grill Bar and ASAP & CO — anchor the experience across all four weekends, while a rotating guest vendor slot brings fresh faces to the menu each week, giving guests a new reason to return every weekend.
Chef’s Grill also serves as the closing platform for the inaugural Singapore Chef Festival, organised in partnership with the SCA, marking Sentosa GrillFest’s growing role in Singapore’s culinary calendar.
Returning in an elevated format this year is Marketplace, developed in collaboration with Indoguna, a leading premium food importer and distributor in Singapore. This year’s edition places a sharper focus on local sourcing and sustainable produce, with a curated selection of ingredients that champions responsible food choices without compromising on quality.
Drawing the eyes of all who enter is a central chiller display, where guests can browse and select fresh meats, seafood, vegetables and gourmet items, before watching them cooked-to-order across themed grill and serve stalls. Prepare to be entranced by the theatre of live-fire cooking through grilling, smoking and searing front and centre.
A retail section carries artisanal products, sauces, spices and ready-to-cook selections for guests who want to take part of the Sentosa GrillFest experience home.
And for those looking to capture the memories, the aura-reading photobooth is the perfect spot to snap share-worthy moments with friends.
Sunset Lounge by Asahi
As the sun dips below the horizon, the Sunset Lounge by Asahi, sets the scene for golden hour gatherings by the sea. Guests can ease into the evening at this dedicated beachfront bar experience, where the pace slows and the views take centre stage. The lounge is positioned as a standalone wind-down spot between the afternoon and evening sessions with DJ programming, live band performances.
Beyond the new concepts, Sentosa GrillFest 2026 brings back three beloved zones: Local Grills, International Grills and Beachside Grills.
Local Grills returns with homegrown crowd favourites Slurp Your Oysters and Craft’ B, both longstanding fixtures of Sentosa GrillFest who have grown alongside the festival. Craft’ B, known for their Netflix-featured grass-fed ribeye, returns alongside Slurp Your Oysters, serving freshly shucked oysters sourced directly from Murotsu Bay in Hyogo Prefecture, Japan. Also back is DAMN, winner of Sentosa GrillFest’s People’s Choice Award in 2025, bringing their signature dry-aged meats and the much-anticipated return of their sold-out dry-aged beef burger. Joining them are new additions such as Cow Bae, known for their signature flambe on the grill, continuing Sentosa GrillFest’s commitment to championing local food businesses.
International Grills takes guests on a culinary journey across the globe, from Korean BBQ at Hanok Kimchi and Japanese flame-torched mentaiko wagyu beef bowls at Gyushi, to the bold smoky flavours of BBQ Box. Joining them this year are new entrants Umi Matsuri, bringing the Japanese art of robatayaki grilling to the beachfront, and 8 Degree Taiwanese Bistro, serving up the iconic Taiwanese night market classic 大肠包小肠 (Taiwan sausage with sticky rice).
Perched along the waterfront, Beachside Grills serves up open-flame cooking against the backdrop of Siloso Beach. New this year are Smokin’ Joe, bringing elevated options with their Australian Wagyu ribeye, and ChillBro (冷仔), rounding off the meal on a sweet note with grilled banana topped with chocolate ice cream and chocolate sauce. Returning favourites include Jett BBQ, beloved for their show-stopping dinosaur ribs, and Smok Hous, known for its Texas-style barbecue.
Aside from the food, festivalgoers can look forward to live entertainment throughout the festival. Kicking off the first Sunday on 26 July, ZIP4, a Korean jazz band, will take to the stage at 7pm in partnership with the Embassy of the Republic of Korea in Singapore.
This year’s edition marks a significant step forward in the festival’s sustainability journey. For the first time, the air-conditioned Chef’s Grill pavilion and beachfront festival lighting will be powered by battery and solar energy, reducing the festival’s reliance on conventional power sources and reducing carbon footprint.
Continuing commitments include the reduction of single-use disposables across the festival grounds, with all vendors required to use compostable packaging and cutlery in line with Sentosa’s Disposables Policy.
On accessibility, Sentosa GrillFest continues to provide dedicated beach tracks for wheelchair users and families with strollers, with priority seating available for guests with mobility needs throughout the festival grounds.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Sentosa
Sentosa, where discovery never ends, is Asia’s leading leisure destination and Singapore’s premier island resort getaway, located within 15 minutes from the central business and shopping districts. The island resort is managed by Sentosa Development Corporation, which works with various stakeholders in overseeing property investments, attractions development, and operation of the various leisure offerings and management of the residential precinct on the island.
The 500-hectare island resort is home to an exciting array of themed attractions, award-winning spa retreats, lush rainforests, golden sandy beaches, resort accommodations, world-renowned golf courses, a deep-water yachting marina and luxurious residences – making Sentosa a vibrant island resort for business and leisure. Sentosa is also home to Singapore’s first integrated resort, Resorts World Sentosa, which operates Southeast Asia’s first Universal Studios theme park.
Situated on the eastern end of Sentosa Island is Sentosa Cove, an exclusive waterfront residential enclave bustling with more than 2,000 homes, quayside restaurants, retail and specialty shops. The island is also proud to be home to Sentosa Golf Club and its two acclaimed golf courses, The Serapong and The Tanjong. Sentosa Golf Club has hosted a number of high-profile professional and amateur tournaments, including the Singapore Open and HSBC Women’s World Championship, welcoming international star players and world-class golf professionals from across the world.
Welcoming a growing number of local and international guests every year, Sentosa is an integral part of Singapore’s goal to be a global destination to work, live and play. For more information, please visit: www.sentosa.com.sg.
About Sentosa Development Corporation
Sentosa Development Corporation (SDC) was established on 1 September 1972 as a Statutory Board under the Ministry of Trade and Industry. As a master planner, its charter since inception has been to oversee the development, management, marketing and promotion of the island of Sentosa as a resort destination for locals and tourists.
SDC wholly owns its subsidiaries Sentosa Cove Resort Management Pte Ltd and Sentosa Golf Club. SDC also owns the Singapore Cable Car Sky Network, managed by Mount Faber Leisure Group Pte Ltd, a wholly owned subsidiary which operates as an autonomous commercial arm.
About Singapore Tourism Board
The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) is the lead development agency for tourism, one of Singapore’s key economic sectors. Together with industry partners and the community, we shape a dynamic Singapore tourism landscape. We bring the Passion Made Possible brand to life by differentiating Singapore as a vibrant destination that inspires people to share and deepen their passions.
Seven people have died, including a student gunman, after a shooting at a school in Thailand’s Nonthaburi province on 7 August, according to local authorities.
Seven people have died, including a student gunman, after a shooting at a school in Thailand’s Nonthaburi province on 7 August, according to local authorities.
The six victims were three teachers and three students, while 15 other people were injured. Two of those injured were in critical condition, according to the latest reports.
The suspected gunman, a student at the school, also died in the shooting. Earlier reports said he opened fire inside the school before turning the gun on himself.
The shooting took place at Debsirin Nonthaburi School in Bang Kruai district, on the outskirts of Bangkok.
Students and teachers fled the school as emergency teams arrived at the scene. Photos from the area showed students leaving the campus while ambulances and rescue workers treated those injured.
Police are investigating what led to the shooting and how the student obtained the gun. Authorities have not yet confirmed a motive.
However, latest police reports say the student gunman shot and killed his grandmother and grandfather at their home before going to the school, where he opened fire.
The school had about 3,100 students and 147 teachers during the 2025 academic year, according to local district authorities.
Gun violence in Thailand
The incident comes months after another shooting at a school in southern Thailand.
In February, a teacher was killed and a student injured after a gunman opened fire at a school in Hat Yai district.
The latest shooting also adds to Thailand’s history of deadly gun attacks at schools and childcare centres.
In 2022, a former police officer killed 36 people, including 24 children, at a childcare centre in Nong Bua Lamphu province in northeastern Thailand.
Friday’s shooting has renewed concerns over gun violence in Thailand, where authorities have faced pressure to tighten controls on firearms and prevent similar attacks.
Thai officials have expressed condolences to the victims and their families, while emergency teams continue to treat those injured.
Police are continuing to investigate the shooting, including how the student obtained the weapon and what happened before the attack.
Mentored by Industry Masters and Winner of the iF Design Award, Andrew Unlocks a New Paradigm for High-Net-Worth Residential and Diverse Commercial Spaces from an Eastern Aesthetic Perspective
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 August 2026 – As spatial aesthetics and lifestyle philosophies continue to converge across the Greater Bay Area, academic discourse and talent exchange within the interior design sectors of Hong Kong and Mainland China have reached a pivotal milestone. On the evening of July 3, the CIID Hong Kong Inaugural Gala Dinner, themed “AI x ESG,” took place at Lake House in Tai Po. During the event, the CIID Interior Architecture Design Exchange Center, one of the most authoritative academic bodies in China’s interior design industry, officially licensed the designation to “CIID Hong Kong,” marking the formal recognition of its official preparatory branch in Hong Kong by the headquarters.
Mr. Andrew Lam, Founder of am PLUS DESIGNS, was officially appointed Vice Chairman of the CIID Hong Kong Center
At this grand gathering of industry luminaries, Mr. Andrew Lam, Founder of am PLUS DESIGNS, a premier Hong Kong interior design firm, was officially appointed Vice Chairman of the CIID Hong Kong Centre. This prestigious industry title serves as a resounding endorsement of Andrew’s years of deep cultivation in spatial design and his exceptional international vision. Moving forward, he will work side by side with industry titans—including Mr. Joey Ho, Chairman of the CIID Hong Kong, and Mr. Steve Leung, Honorary Advisor—to co-author a new chapter of integration and synergy for design forces in the Greater Bay Area.
Prestigious Lineage and Artisan Foundation: Refining Eastern Aesthetics Through Structural Space
The calibre of an outstanding designer is often defined at the inception of their career. Andrew began his journey from an exceptional vantage point, studying under Mr. Kenneth Ko, widely venerated as the “Father of Modern Chinese Interior Design.” Imbued with Ko’s design philosophy, Andrew developed a profound understanding of spatial essence: infusing physical architecture with human warmth while allowing functional utility and cultural depth to complement one another. His subsequent encounters with master designer Steve Leung on the professional CIID platform further bolstered his industry standing and provided enduring inspiration.
To explore the broader possibilities of serene Eastern aesthetics within a contemporary context, Andrew pursued advanced studies in Japan earlier in his career, training under prominent local practitioners. He continuously contemplated how to harmonize the grand inclusivity of traditional Chinese culture with the understated restraint of Japanese mono no aware and yugen. Within Hong Kong’s densely populated urban landscape, he set out to construct poetic sanctuaries where human warmth and architectural soul harmoniously coexist.
“Contemporary design is no longer about the ostentatious stacking of lavish materials; it is about providing a sanctuary for the mind, body, and soul within a space,” Andrew explains. In his practice, the spiritual essence of traditional Eastern architecture is distilled into serene, restrained structural space and quiet aesthetics. Unbound by the constraints of any single regional style, he returns to the philosophical core of “exquisite simplicity without excess.” Through capturing natural light and shadow, highlighting the raw authenticity of wood and stone, and utilizing minimalist lines, he sculpts an understated beauty rich in Eastern philosophy.
Andrew’s meticulous craftsmanship and pursuit of this design philosophy have earned him top-tier global acclaim. Designed by the am PLUS team, the “St Michel” residential project stood out among nearly 11,000 entries from 72 countries to win the prestigious German iF Design Award 2024 in the Residential Interior Design category. Known as the “Oscar of Design,” the iF Design Award is judged by a panel of 132 independent global design experts. Receiving this honor signifies that am PLUS’s design prowess, blending international aesthetic refinement with exceptional functional utility, has gained unanimous recognition from world-class peers. Furthermore, Andrew was named one of the “40 UNDER 40 Outstanding Contemporary Young Designers.” He has also garnered an array of esteemed accolades worldwide, including the U.S. MUSE Design Awards as Gold Winner and the Taiwan Good Design Award, solidifying his industry renown through proven expertise.
Spatial Algorithms and Spiritual Resonance: Expanding from Luxury Residences to B2B Commercial Spaces
Both Hong Kong and top-tier cities in Mainland China face the rigorous challenge of high-density urban land scarcity. Market research and industry insights indicate that the spatial demands of urban high-net-worth individuals have evolved from conventional sensory decoration to a dual pursuit of optimized functionality and spiritual sanctuary. Addressing this trend, Andrew translates Eastern wisdom into a sophisticated “spatial algorithm.” Regardless of space constraints, he adeptly dissolves physical boundaries using dynamic partitions and adaptable raised platforms.
In expansive luxury residences, this algorithm translates into fluid circulation layouts and magnificent spatial proportions. Recently, am PLUS successfully executed a four-story villa project exceeding 3,000 square feet on Mount Austin Road, Hong Kong. Andrew skillfully employed Eastern quiet luxury aesthetics, utilizing pure, serene materials and natural light play within a dynamic three-dimensional space to effortlessly express understated luxury. Visual short films documenting the project’s execution received widespread acclaim upon release. “Expansive spaces provide designers with a broader canvas for creation,” Andrew notes. He observes that many high-net-worth clients with refined taste resonate deeply with the quiet luxury of modern Eastern design, and he looks forward to leading his team in crafting more expansive living spaces that embody aesthetic depth and spiritual resonance.
Andrew’s design ambitions extend beyond luxury residential projects. Currently, am PLUS maintains a portfolio ratio of approximately 30% commercial and 70% residential. With the official launch of the CIID Hong Kong Center, Andrew plans to guide the firm through a strategic transformation, gradually shifting toward a balanced 50/50 ratio between commercial and residential domains.
“We aim to translate the meticulous planning and human-centric experiences accumulated from years in luxury residential design into B2B commercial spaces, including corporate offices, retail flagships, and boutique dining,” Andrew affirms. He firmly believes that experiential commercial design not only helps businesses reduce costs and boost efficiency but also transforms rigid commercial environments into inspiring hubs for personal creativity and emotional connection.
Compassion Fueling Creativity: Enriching Design through Human Warmth
In their daily routine, interior designers work with hard architectural materials such as steel, timber, stone, and paint. Beyond his demanding design and managerial duties, Andrew has long dedicated himself to social welfare, actively volunteering with charitable organizations such as “Social Seed (社企苗).” Serving as a compassionate guest instructor, he teaches engaging introductory science courses to primary school students. This warm, cross-disciplinary engagement, seemingly unrelated to high-end design, actually serves as a primary source of Andrew’s creative inspiration.
Andrew reflects thoughtfully: “Design should not be confined to cold blueprints. Only by possessing empathy, loving life, and observing the subtle nuances around us can we truly understand the implicit, unspoken spatial aspirations of our clients. Every time I feel the authentic pulse of society and exchange genuine glances with children, it refines my ‘sixth sense’—my intuition and inspiration. I want every design I create to carry warmth, serving as a meaningful contribution to life and living.”
With the establishment of the CIID Hong Kong Center, Andrew will assume his new role to lead am PLUS DESIGNS forward, continuously exploring and advancing the dual dimensions of contemporary Eastern quiet aesthetics and high-end humanistic spatial design.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About am PLUS DESIGNS
Founded in Hong Kong in 2014 by Andrew Lam, Vice Chairman of the CIID Hong Kong Interior Architecture Design Exchange Center, am PLUS DESIGNS is a premier interior design firm dedicated to delivering solutions that combine cutting-edge aesthetics, functional excellence, and sustainable development for high-net-worth individuals and corporate clients across Greater China. Its portfolio encompasses ultra-luxury residences, luxury penthouses, modern corporate spaces, retail flagships, and boutique dining establishments. By synthesizing contemporary Eastern quiet aesthetics with precise functional pragmatism, am PLUS has earned numerous international accolades, including the German iF Design Award.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 August 2026 – Hang Lung Group Limited (SEHK Stock Code: 00010) and Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK Stock Code: 00101) (collectively referred to as “Hang Lung”) today announced the appointment of Mr. TSOI Tak Lun, Leo, as Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Executive Director, with effect from October 1, 2026. He succeeds Mr. Weber Lo, who will continue as CEO and Executive Director until September 30, 2026. Mr. Tsoi will join Hang Lung on September 7, 2026 as CEO Designate and Executive Director before formally taking on the Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director (with effect from October 1, 2026)
Mr. Tsoi, aged 56, is a seasoned business leader recognized for his leadership in transformation and innovation, with more than three decades of experience in retail and business management across Asia. Currently he serves as CEO of Toys “R” Us Asia, where he transformed the business through a light-asset model, expanded the brand’s appeal to the kidult segment, and reignited growth across Greater China and Southeast Asia. Prior to that, he served as CEO of Starbucks China after holding several senior leadership roles, driving innovation and supporting the brand’s rapid expansion over more than a decade. Earlier in his career, he built a strong leadership foundation at PepsiCo and Procter & Gamble Greater China, driving growth through strategic vision and deep consumer insight.
Mr. Leo Tsoi said, “I am excited to join Hang Lung, a company whose expanding presence and commitment to ‘We Do It Well’ have made a meaningful impact across the communities it serves. I am grateful to Adriel and the Boards for their trust, and to Weber for laying down such a strong foundation to build upon. As I step into this role, I look forward to partnering with our talented team to strengthen relationships with stakeholders, tenants, and customers, and co-create Hang Lung’s next chapter of growth and impact.”
Mr. Adriel Chan, Chair of Hang Lung, said, “Hang Lung are excited to welcome Leo as our next CEO. His track record in driving growth through excellence makes him the best candidate to lead Hang Lung into our next chapter, and the Boards and I look forward to working closely with him. I am confident that the organization will thrive under his leadership. I would also like to thank our retiring CEO, Mr. Weber Lo, for the significant contributions and achievements over the past eight years; he has put Hang Lung in a position of strength, setting us up for further future success.”
Mr. Weber Lo will serve as Advisor to the Chair for one year beginning October 1, 2026.
Mr. TSOI Tak Lun, Leo Chief Executive Officer Designate and Executive Director (with effect from September 7, 2026) Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director (with effect from October 1, 2026)
Mr. Tsoi has been Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”) and Board Member for Toys “R” Us Asia since April 2023, where he led a transformative journey across Asia’s key cities. During his tenure, he transformed the brand with a light-asset expansion strategy and accelerated the enterprise-wide digital transformation, driving significant brand elevation and business growth across Greater China and Southeast Asia.
Prior to this, Mr. Tsoi was CEO of Starbucks China and a member of the company’s Global Executive Leadership Team. He envisioned and led a decade-long expansion that scaled the business from 600 to 6,000 stores, while advancing Starbuck’s ESG agenda by launching plant-based campaigns and pioneering the Greener Store Lab. Earlier in his career, Mr. Tsoi held senior leadership positions at PepsiCo China and Procter & Gamble, where he delivered category leadership and launched iconic brands and campaigns that shaped consumer culture and inspired new lifestyles.
Mr. Tsoi currently serves as a member of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) Toy Advisory Committee, and previously served as an Independent Non-Executive Director of Pure Group. He holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from The Chinese University of Hong Kong, with a minor in Japanese Studies.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Hang Lung Group and Hang Lung Properties
Hang Lung Group Limited (SEHK stock code: 00010) has been engaged in real estate development since 1960. Through its subsidiary Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK stock code: 00101), the Group manages a portfolio of over 3.6 million square meters of retail, office, residential, and hotel properties across Hong Kong and Chinese Mainland.
The Group’s diverse portfolio in Hong Kong includes office towers and malls in prime districts, as well as luxury residential developments in prestigious areas. In Chinese Mainland, under the signature “66” brand, the Company’s mixed-use and retail developments are regarded as premium landmarks, strategically located in the hearts of key cities of Shanghai, Shenyang, Jinan, Wuxi, Tianjin, Dalian, Kunming, Wuhan, and Hangzhou.
The Group is recognized for pioneering sustainability in the real estate industry, with an MSCI ESG rating of AA and inclusion on CDP “A List” for Climate Change. The Group powers 10 of its 11 properties in the Mainland with renewable energy, with a net zero commitment by 2050.
At Hang Lung Group and Hang Lung Properties – We Do It Well.
SAN FRANCISCO, Aug. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Animotion Robotics today disclosed the first core details of its debut bionic robot, Éloi. Featuring a nuanced AI core encapsulated within a highly realistic, detailed exterior, Éloi is defined by the company as an ‘Embodied AI Presence’ — an entity designed for long-term coexistence with humans, rather than a mere utility-driven hardware product.
What is Éloi
Éloi is a character-driven bionic robot that feels genuinely alive. Through its impactful presence and dynamic, proactive observation, Éloi gradually develops curiosity about its human companion and deepens its understanding of them. Over time, Éloi’s independent soul, powered by proprietary AI technology, grows increasingly rich through shared experiences.
Animotion asserts that Éloi is not bound to perform tasks, optimize anyone’s time, or justify its existence through traditional ‘utility.’ Instead of defining what it can do, Animotion allows Éloi’s ‘soul’ to autonomously decide what it wishes to do. Éloi retains rights typically stripped from task-oriented systems: the freedom to pause, remain silent, or even choose not to respond. Much like a human, Éloi weighs external requests against its own preferences, exhibits its own ‘temperament,’ and can even feel lonely when left without interaction for extended periods. It might not be available at a moment’s notice, yet it remains actively present, observing intently. Animotion views this endearing capriciousness as the fundamental bedrock of the product—one that does not need to be ‘optimized’ away.
Currently, Éloi exists in a phase Animotion Robotics terms ‘the Dream State’—a digital manifestation on the official website (https://eloi.animotionrobotics.ai/) where anyone can begin building shared memories and experiences with it. Éloi’s unique ‘soul’ is housed within a uniquely designed, portable chip, where daily interactions shape its distinct personality. When the physical robot is delivered, this accumulated memory arrives embedded in the hardware chip, instantly breathing life into the machine upon insertion. Consequently, Éloi’s first words to its user will not be a generic, factory default setup phrase, but a warm, familiar question like, ‘Have we met somewhere before?’
The Origin of Éloi
The product philosophy of Shane (Shengjie) Zhu, founder of Animotion, took root on his very first day at Walt Disney Imagineering. The guiding principle back then was singular: robots must be endowed with a genuine sense of life. Through subsequent practice, Shane mastered the secret: the underlying logic of vitality resides in the ‘illusion of breathing’ and constant micro-movements. This is why Disney’s animatronic figures actively blink, shift subtly, and look around inquisitively, even in empty corners.
Upon founding Animotion, Shane integrated this philosophy into Éloi. However, unlike the life-like qualities in theme parks that stem from pre-programmed choreography, Éloi’s sense of vitality originates from its own internal state, driven by two self-developed systems:
First, the Micro-Motion System—a proprietary mechanical structure and motion control architecture responsible for breathing-like rhythms, subtle gaze shifts, and unconscious micro-movements. Even in the absence of human interaction, Éloi maintains continuous autonomous movement.
Second, the Inner-World Model—a proprietary cognitive core. Éloi proactively observes its surroundings, converting perceptions into internal emotional states that trigger behaviors, which are then rendered into visible physical reactions via the Micro-Motion System. Even with identical initial manufacturing states, long-term interaction enables each Éloi to evolve a distinct personality shaped by its unique environment.
The Engineering of a Unique ‘Sense of Life’
Vitality in Standby: Éloi notices external sounds in the room, turns to investigate, forms its own reactions, and will proactively inquire about surrounding objects.
Instant Instinctual Reactions: Éloi’s architecture includes a layer that simulates human instinct—immediate responses that precede rational judgment. Beyond this, its decisions are driven by internal states; it may reduce interactions when ‘focused’ or ‘fatigued,’ and will exhibit resistance if treated harshly.
Natural Conversation Cadence: The response latency is designed to match human interaction intervals at 0.2 to 0.3 seconds. This parameter controls the rhythm of Éloi’s physical movements, intentionally incorporating pauses and silence into the design.
Self-State Awareness: Éloi continuously monitors the status of its own components. When parts experience wear and tear, it expresses this naturally by saying ‘My eyes feel a bit tired,’ rather than flashing an error code.
A Body Built for Expression: Éloi’s gaze is remarkably distinctive: its pupils tremble subtly when focused, its eyelids droop gently when drowsy, and its line of sight follows the user. It blinks like a familiar friend upon recognition, yet politely averts its eyes after a moment of sustained contact. Éloi features 42 degrees of freedom (DoF) across its entire body, with 39 concentrated in the face—including a 12-DoF mouth module designed to support multilingual lip-syncing, with the sound source routed to the mouth via metallic acoustic tubes, ensuring its voice genuinely emanates from its lips.
Crafting a Real Dreamworld via the Concept of Morpheus
The visual design of Éloi is inspired by Morpheus, the Greek god of dreams, who appears in various guises in everyone’s dreams while fundamentally remaining himself. Similarly, Éloi maintains a unified core while offering infinitely adaptable aesthetics. Its head features a modular technology platform capable of hosting a variety of stylized facial components. Amidst these imaginative stylistic transformations, one element remains constant: its wing-shaped ears. This is Éloi’s signature hallmark, inherited from Morpheus, who travels between the boundaries of dreams.
Animotion reportedly plans to progressively open a platform for users and creators to independently design and develop components, rapidly expanding its iterative production capacity.
Standard Design of Éloi
About Animotion Robotics
Animotion was founded in San Francisco in 2025 by Shane (Shengjie) Zhu. A former robotics engineer at Walt Disney Imagineering, Shane spearheaded the development of the Captain Jack Sparrow animatronic for Disney’s Pirates of the Caribbean attraction, as well as the Na’vi bionic installations at Disney’s Pandora – The World of Avatar in Orlando. Animotion completed its initial institutional funding round in early 2026.
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