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Bus Overturns in Bolikhamxay, Leaves 35 Injured, Eight Dead

By
Thongsavanh Souvannasane
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An overnight bus from Pakse to Vientiane overturned in Bolikhamxay, leaving eight dead and dozens injured early Wednesday, 22 April 2026.

An overnight bus overturned in the early hours of Wednesday, 22 April, in Pakkading district, Bolikhamxay Province, killing eight people and injuring 35 others, according to Bolikhamxay authorities.

The accident occurred at approximately 4:20 AM at a curve near Nam Duea village, when the bus lost control and overturned. The vehicle carried 48 people in total, including passengers, a driver, and an attendant, who had departed from Pakse City, Champasak Province, and were heading to Vientiane Capital on an overnight journey.

Authorities confirmed that one foreign national was among the eight killed, though authorities have not disclosed the individual’s nationality. 

The crash left 35 survivors with injuries of varying severity, whom rescue teams transported to nearby medical facilities for treatment.

Bolikhamxay authorities said the crash was likely caused by a combination of slippery road conditions due to overnight rain and excessive speeding through the curve, contributing to the fatal loss of control.

Rescue teams remain at the scene, and provincial authorities continue to investigate the full circumstances of the accident. 

Authorities are expected to release further details soon.

TotalEnergies ENEOS signs 15-year PPA with Thailand’s Jintana Intertrade

By
Advertorial Desk
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NAKHON RATCHASIMA, Thailand, April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — TotalEnergies ENEOS and Jintana Intertrade Co., Ltd. (Jintana), an established Thai garment manufacturer, signed a 15-year Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) to develop a 650 kilowatt-peak (kWp) rooftop solar photovoltaic (PV) system at Jintana’s manufacturing plant in Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.

The rooftop solar installation, with approximately 1,000 solar PV modules, is expected to generate over 1,000 megawatt-hours (MWh) of renewable electricity annually. This will supply around 55% of the site’s total electricity needs and will help avoid more than 480 tons of CO2 emissions annually for Jintana.

Under the PPA, TotalEnergies ENEOS will fully finance, design, install, operate and maintain the system, while Jintana buys the electricity produced throughout the duration of the agreement. This partnership offers Jintana substantial benefits, primarily through electricity cost savings, long-term energy price stability and enhanced sustainability credentials.

“We are pleased to sign this 15-year deal with Jintana, marking the start of our partnership to support their sustainability goals,” said Alexandru Buzatu, Director of TotalEnergies ENEOS Renewables Distributed Generation Asia Pacific. “More corporates are adopting solar energy to reduce costs and meet sustainability targets. Integrating on-site solar power into manufacturing operations is a practical and effective approach for companies to reduce emissions and secure cleaner electricity for the long term.”

“Signing this project with TotalEnergies ENEOS represents an important milestone in Jintana’s sustainability journey. We are pleased to contribute to emissions reduction through the adoption of renewable energy at our manufacturing site and to take a meaningful step toward more sustainable operations. We hope this project will serve as a strong foundation for further progress, and we remain committed to supporting a lower-carbon future,” said Savitee Thanalongkorn, CEO of Jintana Intertrade Co., Ltd.

TotalEnergies ENEOS to install rooftop solar PV system at Jintana’s manufacturing plant in Thailand
TotalEnergies ENEOS to install rooftop solar PV system at Jintana’s manufacturing plant in Thailand

To learn more about TotalEnergies ENEOS tailored solar solutions, check out the free brochure, or contact directly for more information.

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About TotalEnergies ENEOS Renewables Distributed Generation Asia Pte. Ltd.
The company is a 50/50 joint venture between TotalEnergies and ENEOS to develop onsite B2B solar distributed generation across Asia. It is headquartered in Singapore with a plan to develop 2 GW of decentralized solar capacity over the next five years. https://solar.totalenergies.asia

TotalEnergies and electricity
TotalEnergies is building a competitive portfolio that combines renewables (solar, onshore wind, offshore wind) and flexible assets (CCGT, storage) to deliver clean firm power to its customers. At the beginning of 2026, TotalEnergies has more than 34 GW of gross renewable power generation capacity and aims to achieve over 100 TWh of net electricity production by 2030.

ENEOS Corporation and renewables electricity
ENEOS Group operates solar power plants in Japan and is also participating in renewable energy projects in the United States, Australia, Vietnam and Taiwan Region. Furthermore, ENEOS is actively engaged in power generation projects using biomass, hydroelectric power, wind power, etc. This joint venture is ENEOS’ first overseas renewable energy project using distributed power sources. 

About TotalEnergies
TotalEnergies is a global integrated energy company that produces and markets energies: oil and biofuels, natural gas, biogas and low-carbon hydrogen, renewables and electricity. Our more than 100,000 employees are committed to provide as many people as possible with energy that is more reliable, more affordable and more sustainable. Active in about 120 countries, TotalEnergies places sustainability at the heart of its strategy, its projects and its operations.

About ENEOS Corporation
ENEOS Group has developed businesses in the energy and nonferrous metals segments, from upstream to downstream. The Group’s envisioned goals for 2040 are: becoming one of the most prominent and internationally competitive energy and materials company groups in Asia, creating value by transforming our current business structure, and contributing to the development of a low-carbon, recycling-oriented society with the pursuit of carbon-neutral status in its own CO2 emissions. ENEOS Corporation, one of the principal operating companies in the Group, is contributing to achievement of the Group’s envisioned goals through a broad range of energy businesses. 

TotalEnergies ENEOS Contact
Media Relation: contact.solar.asia@totalenergies.com

About Jintana Intertrade Co., Ltd.
Jintana Intertrade Co., Ltd. is a long-established Thai intimate apparel company with more than 65 years of heritage. The company operates across two core business areas: the development and retail of its own brand, and manufacturing for both its branded business and OEM export customers. Built on a foundation of sincerity, quality and continuous improvement, Jintana combines trusted brand heritage with established manufacturing expertise to serve evolving customer needs in both domestic and international markets.

Jintana Intertrade Co., Ltd. Contact
Media Relation: marketing@jintana.com

TotalEnergies on social media

Cautionary Note TotalEnergies
The terms “TotalEnergies”, “TotalEnergies company” or “Company” in this document are used to designate TotalEnergies SE and the consolidated entities that are directly or indirectly controlled by TotalEnergies SE. Likewise, the words “we”, “us” and “our” may also be used to refer to these entities or to their employees. The entities in which TotalEnergies SE directly or indirectly owns a shareholding are separate legal entities. This document may contain forward-looking information and statements that are based on a number of economic data and assumptions made in a given economic, competitive and regulatory environment. They may prove to be inaccurate in the future and are subject to a number of risk factors. Neither TotalEnergies SE nor any of its subsidiaries assumes any obligation to update publicly any forward-looking information or statement, objectives or trends contained in this document whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Information concerning risk factors, that may affect TotalEnergies’ financial results or activities is provided in the most recent Registration Document, the French-language version of which is filed by TotalEnergies SE with the French securities regulator Autorité des Marchés Financiers (AMF), and in the Form 20-F filed with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Cautionary Note ENEOS Corporation
The terms “ENEOS”, “ENEOS Group” in this document are used to designate ENEOS Corporation and the consolidated entities that are directly or indirectly controlled by ENEOS Corporation. This document contains certain forward-looking statements. Actual results may differ materially from those reflected in any forward-looking statement due to various factors, which include, but are not limited to, the following: (1) macroeconomic conditions and changes in the competitive environment in the energy, resources, and materials industries; (2) the impact of COVID-19 on economic activity; (3) changes in laws and regulations; and (4) risks related to litigation and other legal proceedings.

 

Ractigen Therapeutics Presents Positive Phase I Data for RAG-17 in SOD1-ALS at the 2026 AAN Annual Meeting, Demonstrating 81% Reduction in Neurofilament Light Chain

By
Advertorial Desk
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— Single intrathecal dose of SCAD-siRNA therapeutic RAG-17 yields favorable safety profile and profound, durable biomarker reductions —
— Preliminary data from 180 mg cohort shows trends of clinical stabilization (ALSFRS-R) —
— Phase II trial is now actively dosing participants —

CHICAGO, April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Ractigen Therapeutics, a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on developing next-generation RNA-based medicines, today announced positive preliminary data from the single ascending dose (SAD) Phase I portion of its ongoing Phase I/II clinical trial of RAG-17. RAG-17 is a novel small interfering RNA (siRNA) therapeutic in development for the treatment of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients with mutations in the superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) gene.

The data were presented on April 19, at the 2026 American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Annual Meeting in Chicago, Illinois. The presentation was delivered by Dr. Zhi-Ying Wu, Principal Investigator of the Second Affiliated Hospital Zhejiang University School of Medicine.

RAG-17 utilizes Ractigen’s proprietary Smart Chemistry-Aided Delivery (SCAD™) technology, which conjugates the siRNA duplex to an accessory oligonucleotide (ACO). This innovative architecture enables widespread central nervous system (CNS) distribution and exceptionally durable target engagement following a single intrathecal (IT) injection, potentially allowing for significantly extended dosing intervals compared to current therapies.

“The data presented at AAN this year represents a major milestone for Ractigen and, more importantly, for patients living with SOD1-ALS,” said Dr. Long-Cheng Li, CEO of Ractigen Therapeutics. “Achieving an 81% reduction in plasma NfL—a critical marker of neuroaxonal damage—alongside a highly favorable safety profile from a single administration is unprecedented. Furthermore, the early signals of clinical stabilization we are observing at the highest dose level strongly validate our SCAD platform. We are thrilled to have already initiated dosing in the Phase II portion of the study to further evaluate RAG-17’s transformative potential.”

“SOD1-ALS is a genetically defined disease with a clear biological target, yet patients still face a very limited treatment landscape,” commented Dr. Zhi-Ying Wu. “What we observed in this Phase I study—a substantial and durable reduction in CSF SOD1 protein after a single dose, accompanied by a profound decrease in plasma NfL and early stabilization of functional scores in the highest dose group—gives us strong reason for optimism. These data clearly suggest that RAG-17 is engaging its target in a highly meaningful way, and we look forward to generating further evidence in the ongoing Phase II study.”

Key Highlights from the AAN Presentation (NCT06556394):

The randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled SAD phase evaluated 20 participants across five sequential dose cohorts (30, 90, 120, 150, and 180 mg). The participants received RAG-17 or placebo at 3:1 ratio. The study is still ongoing so the results were presented in a blinded way:

  • Favorable Safety & Tolerability: RAG-17 was well-tolerated across all ascending dose cohorts. There were no serious adverse events (SAEs) or Grade3 treatment-emergent adverse events. Only three treatment-related adverse events were reported and all were mild ≥ 3 treatment-emergent adverse events. Only three treatment-related adverse events were reported and all were mild.
  • Profound Target Engagement: A single IT dose yielded rapid and durable reductions in the disease-driving protein. In the 150 mg cohort, the maximum reduction in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) SOD1 reached 58.1% (blinded analysis) by Day 90, maintaining a clinically meaningful reduction through Day 210.
  • Deep Reductions in Neurodegeneration Biomarkers: RAG-17 induced a progressive and significant reduction in plasma neurofilament light chain (NfL). In the 180 mg cohort, plasma NfL levels dropped by 81.2% (blinded analysis) from baseline by Day 150.
  • Encouraging Clinical Stabilization: Functional assessment was conducted with ALS Functional Rating Score-Revised (ALSFRS-R) in the 180mg cohort. In this cohort, blinded preliminary data indicated an attenuation of clinical decline:
    • At Day 90, all the participants who had baseline and at least one assessment after dosing (n=3) exhibited zero functional decline (a 0-point change from baseline).
    • At Day 150, decreases remained minimal (ranging from 0 to 4 points).

Phase II Trial Update

Ractigen Therapeutics also reports that a Phase II clinical trial for RAG-17 is now underway. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, multiple ascending dose (MAD) study is designed to evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and preliminary efficacy of repeated intrathecal injections of RAG-17 in patients with SOD1 mutations. Since the first participant was successfully dosed on January 13, 2026, enrollment for two cohorts has been successfully completed. The trial is being conducted across multiple sites, led by investigators including Dr. Yilong Wang at Beijing Tiantan Hospital, Dr. Zhi-Ying Wu at the Second Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University School of Medicine; Capital Medical University; Dr. Hui-Fang Shang at West China Hospital of Sichuan University; Dr. Zhang-Yu Zou at Fujian Medical University Union Hospital; and Dr. Jing-Sheng Zeng at the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University.

About RAG-17

RAG-17 is an investigational siRNA therapeutic candidate designed using Ractigen’s proprietary SCAD™ delivery platform technology to specifically target and silence the superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) gene mRNA. Mutations in the SOD1 gene cause a toxic gain-of-function and are a known cause of familial ALS. By reducing the production of the toxic mutant SOD1 protein, RAG-17 aims to slow or halt the progression of SOD1-ALS.

RAG-17 has obtained Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and been selected for the CARE Program of the Center for Drug Evaluation (CDE), National Medical Products Administration (NMPA), which facilitates the accelerated development of rare disease therapies.

About ALS

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease affecting nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, leading to muscle weakness, paralysis, and ultimately death, typically within three to five years of diagnosis. SOD1 gene mutations account for approximately 10-30% of familial ALS cases and about 1-2% of sporadic ALS cases. There remains a critical unmet medical need for effective treatments that can slow or stop disease progression.

About Ractigen Therapeutics

Ractigen Therapeutics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company innovating next-generation RNA therapeutics, with a primary focus on small activating RNAs (saRNAs) developed through its clinically validated RNA activation (RNAa) technology. Leveraging proprietary delivery platforms such as SCAD™, LiCO™, and GLORY™, Ractigen is advancing a robust pipeline addressing unmet medical needs in oncology, neurological diseases, and genetic disorders. Its versatile technologies also enable the rapid development of RNA-based solutions, including siRNAs, where applicable, to target life-threatening, fast-progressing conditions such as those in the CNS. Committed to scientific excellence and patient-centered innovation, Ractigen strives to transform healthcare through the power of RNA therapeutics. For more information, visit www.ractigen.com.

Tropicana Twister Builds Homes That Could Change Lives for Generations

By
Advertorial Desk
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Gandakan Kebaikan transforms nationwide kindness into real homes, delivering meaningful and lasting impact.


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 April 2026 – Tropicana Twister’s ‘Gandakan Kebaikan’ campaign has reached a defining milestone with the completion and handover of homes to families in need, marking a tangible outcome of a nationwide movement built on everyday acts of kindness.

Final Shot 1

Developed in partnership with EPIC Homes, the initiative contributes towards the building of up to 100 homes for underserved communities, including Orang Asli families across Malaysia. What began during Ramadan as a simple call to do good has since translated into safe, liveable spaces that provide families with protection, stability and a chance to move forward.

“Gandakan Kebaikan reflects our belief that meaningful change happens when communities come together with a shared purpose,” said Aditya Sheoran, PepsiCo Franchise Senior Director. “Through this initiative, we’re building homes and helping to create stronger foundations for families to thrive, today and for the future.”

Jennifer Lee, Head of Marketing, PepsiCo Malaysia Beverages, shared, “This is where intention becomes impact. Tropicana Twister’s Gandakan Kebaikan campaign started as individual acts of kindness, and now, the result is visible, that Malaysians are and will continue to show up for one another.”

“Families living in unsafe homes live in constant worry, especially during heavy rain. An EPIC Home gives them a place where they can feel secure. It goes beyond being just a shelter – a safe home gives peace of mind, stability, and the hope for a better future.” said Nadhira Halim, (Asst. Manager, Fundraising & Partnership, EPIC Homes).

More than just physical structures, these homes create a sense of security and dignity, while giving families a stable environment to rebuild their lives. Built with the support of volunteers and local communities, each home reflects a collective effort that goes far beyond a single campaign.

While ‘Gandakan Kebaikan’ was rooted in the spirit of Ramadan, its impact continues to extend far beyond the festive season. By focusing on long-term community needs, Tropicana Twister reinforces its commitment to creating meaningful and lasting change.

“As a brand, we believe in the power of collective goodness. This project is about turning that belief into action and bringing people together to create lasting impact,” added Jennifer. “Just like every beam and plank forms a home, each of you is a vital piece in building this journey.”

With the completion of these homes, ‘Gandakan Kebaikan’ continues to build on its mission of supporting underserved communities across Malaysia, proving that collective goodwill can create an impact that lasts beyond a moment.

For more information, visit Tropicana Twister’s Facebook page @MYTropicana and watch here on YouTube to see the impact unfold.

Hashtag: #TropicanaTwister

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

About PepsiCo

PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $86 billion in net revenue in 2022, driven by a complimentary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Tropicana, Lay’s, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.

Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to be the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods by Winning with pep+ (PepsiCo Positive). pep+ is our strategic end-to-end transformation that puts sustainability and human capital at the centre of how we will create value and growth by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change cafor the planet and people. For more information, visit , and follow on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @PepsiCo.

Student bonds are built at SIM from orientation to graduation

By
Advertorial Desk
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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 April 2026 – As universities adapt to hybrid learning and evolving workforce expectations, student relationships are increasingly being treated not as incidental, but as a designed part of the education journey. Across higher education, there is growing recognition that peer interaction, collaboration, and shared experiences contribute to how students learn, work, and transition into employment. This shift is prompting institutions to rethink how engagement is built from the moment students enter campus through to graduation.

From Orientation to a Continuous Student Journey

Orientation programmes have traditionally focused on introducing students to campus life. Today, they are increasingly seen as the starting point of a longer engagement model. Institutions such as the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM), onboarding is complemented by a structured ecosystem of activities that extends throughout the academic lifecycle. These include Student‑led Student Club Recruitment drives,, leadership camps, and peer-led initiatives that encourage early interaction and sustained participation over time.

Building Bonds Through Shared Experiences

Rather than relying solely on informal social interaction, universities or institutions are creating structured environments where students collaborate regularly. SIM, for instance, offers more than 70 student clubs spanning arts, sports, and academic interests, alongside activities such as hackathons, overseas community projects, and student-led events. Such platforms allow students to work together on common goals, reflecting real-world team dynamics and reinforcing skills such as communication and collaboration.

Learning Beyond the Classroom

The concept of student life is also expanding beyond academic settings. Dedicated platforms such as SIM’s Student Life initiatives are designed to provide a more holistic campus experience, reinforcing the idea that learning extends beyond formal instruction. At the same time, academic support systems such as the Student Learning Centre provide structured assistance through workshops, consultations, and learning resources, supporting both individual and group learning processes.

A Diverse and Global Learning Environment

With partnerships across universities in the United Kingdom, Australia, Europe, and the United States, institutions like SIM bring together students from varied cultural and academic backgrounds. This diversity creates opportunities for cross-cultural collaboration, which is increasingly relevant in a globalised workforce.

Connecting Student Experience to Career Outcomes

The emphasis on collaboration and engagement is also closely linked to employability. SIM’s broader model integrates academic programmes with industry partnerships, internships, and career services aimed at preparing students for a rapidly changing work environment. This reflects a wider trend in higher education, where experience is being designed not only around academic achievement, but also around the development of professional networks and workplace skills.

Redefining the University Experience

As learning models continue to evolve, universities or institutions are placing greater emphasis on how student interactions are structured over time. From orientation activities to co-curricular engagement and career preparation, the journey from enrolment to graduation is increasingly being shaped as a continuous pathway for collaboration, experience-building, and network development.

Reference:

  1. Project 1095 – https://project1095.simge.edu.sg/
  2. Singapore Institute of Management – https://www.sim.edu.sg
  3. SIM Global Education Overview – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/overview

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

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

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 17,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 41% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit .

Alvarez & Marsal Expands Asia-Pacific Presence with Korea Restructuring Practice Launch

By
Advertorial Desk
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SEOUL, South Korea, April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Leading global professional services firm Alvarez & Marsal (A&M) today launched a dedicated restructuring practice in Korea, expanding its Asia-Pacific restructuring platform and deepening its commitment to the market.

The launch builds on A&M’s decade-long presence in Korea, during which headcount has tripled to more than 100 professionals over the past three years. It brings the firm’s globally recognized restructuring capabilities to the local market. The practice integrates operational turnaround, financial restructuring, and corporate finance solutions, with a strong emphasis on early, hands-on engagement to deliver practical, result-driven solutions.

“When we founded A&M, we built the firm around a simple principle — Leadership, Action, and Results,” Bryan Marsal, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Alvarez & Marsal, said. “We step into complex situations, take responsibility, and execute. Bringing that model to Korea is an important milestone for us. Korea is a dynamic, globally connected economy undergoing structural transition. We are committed to investing behind local leadership and delivering the senior-led execution that defines our firm.”

Supporting the Evolution of Korea’s Corporate Landscape

As one of Asia’s most dynamic and globally integrated economies, Korea continues to evolve its corporate and capital market framework through strengthened governance standards, market reforms, and initiatives to promote transparency and long-term value creation.

At the same time, global interest-rate normalization and sector-specific pressures have increased balance sheet strain across parts of the economy. Higher financing costs, ongoing industrial adjustment, and evolving macroeconomic conditions, including trade dynamics and tariffs, are placing greater emphasis on capital discipline and operational resilience, particularly among small- and mid-sized enterprises.

The ongoing review of the Corporate Restructuring Promotion Act (CRPA), set to expire at the end of 2026, further underscores the opportunity for Korea to review its restructuring framework to ensure it remains responsive and aligned with evolving market conditions.

Against this backdrop, A&M’s Korea Restructuring Practice aims to support preemptive restructuring, value preservation, and execution-led transformation, in collaboration with stakeholders across the ecosystem.

“Across Asia-Pacific, we are seeing increasing demand for senior-led, execution-focused restructuring solutions,” James Dubow, Managing Director and Head of A&M North Asia, said. “With the right leadership and sustained investment, we believe this practice can become a meaningful contributor to the continued development of Korea’s restructuring ecosystem and to A&M’s regional growth.”

Experienced Leadership for an Evolving Market

JJ Lim, Managing Director and Head of Korea Restructuring, and Dee Chung, Managing Director and Deputy Head of Korea Restructuring, will lead the Korea Restructuring Practice, combining deep institutional restructuring experience with cross-border execution capability.

Mr. Lim brings more than three decades of experience from Korea Development Bank, where he led complex restructurings and creditor workouts across key industries. Mr. Chung, a long-standing leader within A&M Korea, has advised on numerous multi-jurisdictional turnarounds and special situations. Their complementary backgrounds, spanning policy-bank leadership and global advisory execution, provide strong local credibility and international connectivity.

“Korea’s restructuring framework has evolved significantly over the past decades and continues to advance alongside broader corporate governance and capital market reforms,” Mr. Lim said. “The direction of travel is clear: greater transparency, stronger market discipline, and more proactive engagement. A senior-led, execution-focused platform can support that progress by helping companies and stakeholders navigate change with discipline and confidence, contributing to the resilience and long-term strength of the Korean economy.”

“Over the past decade, we have supported global clients on complex cross-border restructurings and turnaround situations,” Mr. Chung said. “Establishing a dedicated restructuring practice in Korea allows us to deepen that work and bring more of A&M’s distinctive strengths to Korean corporates and market participants. I am confident in the long-term prospects for this platform and excited about building a practice that combines global connectivity with local leadership.”

Regional Investment and Cross-Border Capability

The expansion follows A&M’s recent growth in Japan and Australia, reflecting the firm’s continued investment in Asia-Pacific. The addition of Korea deepens A&M’s senior leadership presence in the region and enhances its ability to connect local engagements with global sector expertise and capital solutions. In total, A&M’s Asia-Pacific offices comprise approximately 2,200 professionals.

About Alvarez & Marsal

Founded in 1983, Alvarez & Marsal is a leading global professional services firm. Renowned for its leadership, action and results, Alvarez & Marsal provides advisory, business performance improvement and turnaround management services, delivering practical solutions to address clients’ unique challenges. With a worldwide network of experienced operators, world-class consultants, former regulators and industry authorities, Alvarez & Marsal helps corporates, boards, private equity firms, law firms and government agencies drive transformation, mitigate risk and unlock value at every stage of growth. To learn more, visit: AlvarezandMarsal.com.

THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE ENHANCES NATIONAL RESILIENCE THROUGH SMART DEFENCE TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION

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Advertorial Desk
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KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On April 20, The Prime Minister of Malaysia, YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, officiated the Defence Services Asia (DSA) & National Security (NATSEC) Asia 2026 Opening Ceremony at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC).

THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE ENHANCES NATIONAL RESILIENCE THROUGH SMART DEFENCE TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION
THE MINISTRY OF DEFENCE ENHANCES NATIONAL RESILIENCE THROUGH SMART DEFENCE TECHNOLOGY INNOVATION

Themed “Enhancing Capabilities and Resilience Through Technology”, the 19th Edition of the DSA 2026 Exhibition will run for four days from 20 to 23 April 2026. This exhibition aims to enhance defence capabilities and drive future technology to ensure national resilience through innovation, international cooperation and the development of the local defence industry ecosystem.

The main focus of this event is on the evolution of defence technology that has shifted from conventional assets to smart systems. Emphasis is placed on mastering technology that is capable of facing the security threats of the new millennium which are asymmetric and hybrid in nature.

Among the core advanced technologies featured :

a) Autonomous & Robotic Systems: Exhibition of various variations of unmanned systems (UAV, UGV, and UUV) equipped with Artificial Intelligence (AI) for long-distance monitoring and detection operations.

b) Digital & Cyber Defence: Application of new generation encryption technology and cybersecurity platforms to protect the country’s data sovereignty and critical infrastructure.

c) Sensor & Electronic Technology: High-precision radar and sensor systems that enable ATM readiness to be at an optimal level in monitoring space, maritime, and land in real-time.

In line with this global technology exposure, the government continues to strengthen the Industrial Collaboration Programme (ICP) as the main mechanism for technology transfer. Through the ICP, the involvement of international industry players is required to contribute to the development of local talent and research and development (R&D) in the high-tech sector.

Among the key segments highlighted are the CBRNe Arena, focusing on technologies related to chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and explosive threats; the Firearms and Tactical Equipment Segment, showcasing the latest operational capabilities and equipment; and the Coalition of Defence Industry Malaysia (CDIM) Pavilion, which highlights the capabilities of the country’s defence industry. The DSA & NATSEC Asia Lab also showcases innovation initiatives by providing a platform for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and start-ups to introduce their innovations on the international stage.

This edition recorded the participation of 1,456 companies from 63 countries, including 37 international pavilions, as well as approximately 600 official delegations and 50,000 trade visitors from more than 114 countries within the 48,000-square-metre exhibition space. This scale of participation reflects the strategic importance of the exhibition at the global level and further demonstrates Malaysia’s position as a strategic meeting point for defence and security cooperation.

Also present were the Minister of Defence, YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin; Chief Secretary to the Government, Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar; Speaker of the Dewan Rakyat, Tan Sri Dato’ Dr. Johari bin Abdul; Chairman of DSA Exhibition and Conference Sdn Bhd, Tan Sri Asmat Kamaludin; Chief of Defence Force, General Datuk Haji Malek Razak bin Sulaiman; Secretary-General of the Ministry of Defence, Datuk Lokman Hakim bin Ali; Deputy Minister of Defence, YB Adly Zahari; as well as top management and senior officers of the Ministry and the Malaysian Armed Forces.

– END –

“‘MALAYSIA MADANI” “BERKHIDMAT UNTUK NEGARA”
”PERTAHANAN NEGARA, TANGGUNGJAWAB BERSAMA”

Ministry of Defence Malaysia
20 April 2026

Case Report of Mabwell’s Nectin-4 targeting ADC (9MW2821) in Cervical Cancer Published in The New England Journal of Medicine

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Advertorial Desk
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SHANGHAI, April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Mabwell (688062.SH), an innovation-driven biopharmaceutical company with a fully integrated industrial chain, announced that a recent clinical case report on its self-developed novel Nectin-4 ADC (bulumtatug fuvedotin, R&D code: 9MW2821) for the treatment of cervical cancer has been published in The New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM, Impact Factor: 78.5), a leading international medical journal.

The article, published by the team of Dr. Wang Shanbing, Director of the Oncology Center at the Second People’s Hospital of Yibin, reveals for the first time globally a rare case of hepatic “pseudoprogression” phenomenon observed in a patient with advanced cervical cancer following treatment with the novel Nectin-4 ADC (9MW2821). Pseudoprogression generally refers to a phenomenon where existing lesions temporarily enlarge or new lesions appear early in immunotherapy, without clinical deterioration, followed by subsequent stabilization or shrinkage—typically not representing true tumor progression.

This article reports the case of a patient with metastatic cervical squamous-cell carcinoma whose disease was refractory to platinum–taxane chemotherapy with no prior immunotherapy. After just two cycles of treatment with 9MW2821, the patient’s baseline metastatic lesions showed substantial regression, and serum squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) antigen levels dropped precipitously—from 37.0 ng/mL to 1.2 ng/mL (normal range ≤1.5). However, despite comprehensive improvement across multiple indicators, a CT scan unexpectedly revealed a “new hypoattenuating lesion ” measuring 1.8 cm × 2.5 cm in the medial segment of the left lobe of the liver. A liver biopsy showed dense infiltration of lymphocytes, plasma cells, and neutrophils, with no evidence of granulomas, spindle cell proliferation, or viable tumor cells. The biopsy results ruled out disease progression, sarcoid-like reactions, or inflammatory pseudotumor. Given the patient’s p16-positive status (implying high HPV antigenicity) and the absence of previous immunotherapy, Dr. Wang Shanbing’s team hypothesized that the antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) targeted occult micrometastases, inducing immune-cell death and releasing damage-associated molecular patterns that triggered this robust inflammatory influx. The patient continued treatment, and subsequent imaging showed gradual resolution of the liver lesion, with no reappearance during two years of follow-up.

ADCs are hailed as “magic bullets” for precisely targeting tumors. Previously, pseudoprogression has been predominantly observed in immunotherapies such as PD‑1/PD‑L1 inhibitors, whereas its occurrence in ADC therapy for solid tumors is considered exceedingly rare. This finding by Dr. Wang Shanbing’s team carries significant implications for the clinical management of advanced cervical cancer. The article strongly emphasizes that treatment that could prolong life should not be prematurely discontinued based solely on radiographic “false impressions,” providing a valuable reference for the clinical application of ADCs and safeguarding optimal therapeutic benefits for oncology patients.

9MW2821 is the world’s first Nectin-4 ADC candidate to enter Phase III clinical trials for cervical cancer. Currently, enrollment for the monotherapy Phase III trial has been completed. Interim analysis is expected to be conducted and pre-NDA to be submitted in H2 2026. The first-line combination study with toripalimab is in Phase II.

About Mabwell

Mabwell (688062.SH) is an innovation-driven biopharmaceutical company with capabilities spanning the entire pharmaceutical value chain. The company is committed to providing more effective and accessible therapies to meet global medical needs, with a focus on oncology and aging-related diseases. Mabwell’s mission is “Explore Life, Benefit Health” and its vision is “Innovation, from Ideas to Reality.” For more information, please visit www.mabwell.com/en. 

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