26 C
Vientiane
Sunday, October 19, 2025
spot_img
Home Blog Page 540

Hear the Passion, Feel the Moment — Khadas Tea Pro Now Available

Magnetic, ultra-slim, portable headphone amplifier delivering desktop-grade Hi-Fi sound

NEW YORK, Aug. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — When was the last time you truly listened to a song? At Khadas, we believe sound quality and portability should never be a trade-off. That’s why we created Tea Pro — a magnetic, ultra-slim portable DAC & headphone amplifier as small as a credit card, yet delivering desktop-grade high-fidelity sound.

Khadas Tea Pro
Khadas Tea Pro

Tea Pro continues the Tea series’ signature magnetic card-style design, with 19 built-in magnets that snap it securely onto iPhones. Android or pre-12 iPhones can also use a magnetic ring for the same magnetic attachment. The upgraded leather back offers a gentler, noise-free snap. At only 8mm thin and 96g in weight, it’s effortless to carry anywhere. Inside, the flagship USB DAC XMOS XU316-1024 supports PCM 768kHz / DSD512, paired with ESS ES9039Q2M DAC, Qualcomm QCC5181 Bluetooth, aptX, aptX HD, aptX Adaptive and LDAC codec support, and a 100fs femtosecond clock — ensuring clean, detailed, studio-grade sound.

For broader compatibility, Tea Pro adds a 4.4mm balanced output alongside the 3.5mm jack, precisely driving anything from entry-level IEMs to high-impedance headphones. It’s fully cross-platform with MFi-certified iOS support, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux.

User experience is enhanced with a 0.95-inch AMOLED display for quick info access and easy adjustments—covering audio format, gain, battery, and volume—no need to unlock your phone.

The Khadas Audio App offers EQ presets, filter selection, 10-band EQ, and gain control, giving music lovers both listening and tuning freedom.

Powered by a 2100mAh battery, Tea Pro delivers up to 8 hours of playback in USB mode and 11 hours in Wireless. It even supports USB-C charging from audio input devices such as phones, so your music never run out of energy.

Tea Pro isn’t about flashy specs — it’s about being a quiet companion for every moment you want to truly hear your music. Whether you’re an audiophile seeking sonic precision or someone who values quality and ease, Tea Pro brings sound closer to you.

Khadas Tea Pro officially launches on August 26th, 2025. We invite you to be among the first to experience this magnetic, ultra-portable DAC and headphone amplifier — hear the passion, and let the sound come closer.

vivo V60 Kicks Off Global Rollout with Malaysia Launch: Bringing the World Closer with a Next-Level Telephoto Camera

V60 features a 50 MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera, perfect for travel, portraits or celebrations, a large battery for day-long power and the V series’ most durable design for those who appreciate both style and function.

SHENZHEN, China, Aug. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — vivo today announced the global launch of vivo V60, a powerful new addition to the V series of smartphones. Unveiled for the first time in Malaysia, co-engineered in close collaboration with ZEISS, the new V60 redefines effortless portrait photography with a versatile 50 MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera[1] and a range of further advanced imaging features. With a sleek yet durable design, a large battery that lasts and fast charging technology, V60 helps users stay connected throughout the day, no matter the scenario.

vivo V60 series, co-engineered with ZEISS, redefines effortless portrait photography.
vivo V60 series, co-engineered with ZEISS, redefines effortless portrait photography.

“Built with the idea of bringing professional-level portrait photography to smartphones, V60 helps users easily capture beautiful moments. With a 50 MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera that captures clearer portrait close-ups from a distance, this is a device you’d want to bring to your next special occasion,” said Xun Tan, General Manager of Overseas Products of vivo. “From its effortless photography to its drop-resistant design and long-lasting battery, V60 is a reliable companion that can keep pace with you and your most demanding tasks.”

Co-engineered to Capture Any Special Occasion in Stunning Detail

The new V60 features a versatile imaging system, co-engineered with ZEISS for stunning portraits, travel vlogs, and spotlight moments with friends and family. Its 50 MP ZEISS Super Telephoto Camera delivers pro-level results with a powerful Sony IMX882 Ultra-Sensitive Sensor (1/1.953″) and an f/2.65 super-large aperture. Its innovative periscope design allows for greater optical zoom without increasing the thickness of camera module.

Users get a front-row seat at any performance with 10x Telephoto Stage Portrait, perfect for vivid close-ups from a distance.
Users get a front-row seat at any performance with 10x Telephoto Stage Portrait, perfect for vivid close-ups from a distance.

V60’s 10x Telephoto Stage Portrait lets users capture vivid close-ups of performers on stage, making it feel like they’re sitting in the front row. It preserves intricate details like facial expressions, natural skin tones, and clothing textures, bringing the energy of the performance to life in the photos. Thanks to vivo’s exclusive algorithm, users can simply tap Stage Style to automatically optimize for perfect stage shots. Another powerful feature is ZEISS Multifocal Portrait, which gives users five golden portrait focal lengths, inspired by professional cameras. Enhanced with ZEISS Style Bokeh, it is easier than ever to capture cinematic portraits that pay homage to the style of iconic ZEISS lenses. For special occasions like weddings, the 85 mm Portrait allows users to capture emotional moments from afar with cinematic quality and creamy bokeh effects. This focal length is also indispensable for travel photography, like when taking photos in front of iconic landmarks in crowded tourist spots. With Telephoto Landscape Portrait, users can easily frame their compositions to highlight both their subject and the landmark by zooming in to avoid unwanted passersby, achieving postcard-worthy results.

vivo V60 features 85 mm Portrait to capture the emotion of special occasions with stunning clarity and creamy bokeh.
vivo V60 features 85 mm Portrait to capture the emotion of special occasions with stunning clarity and creamy bokeh.

The versatility of the V60’s telephoto lens is further enhanced by its Super Telephoto Enhancement feature. With AI-powered zoom, V60 delivers clarity even at extreme distances. Whether zooming in at 10x or pushing the boundaries to 100x, the combination of a large sensor and advanced algorithms developed by vivo ensures that every detail remains crisp and lifelike.

V60 also boasts a 50 MP ZEISS OIS Main Camera, featuring the Sony IMX766 sensor for exceptional low-light performance, and an 8 MP ZEISS Ultra Wide-Angle Camera, perfect for group shots and landscape photography. On the front, the 50 MP ZEISS Group Selfie Camera captures distortion-free selfies and group photos, enhanced by AI Facial Contouring for natural beauty. For video enthusiasts, V60 supports 4K recording on both front and rear cameras, delivering ultra-clear dynamic storytelling.

V60 also integrates cutting-edge AI features[2] for effortless content creation. AI Four-Season Portrait[3] lets users infuse photos with seasonal vibes, adding more creative options for outdoor shots.

V60 can also rescue imperfect shots. With AI Erase 3.0[4], you can remove unwanted passersby or distracting background elements with a single tap, while AI Reflection Erase eliminates glare and reflections from photos taken through glass, restoring them to their clearest, most natural state. When the composition feels off, AI Magic Move helps reposition subjects within the frame while automatically filling in the background to achieve the perfect balance. When users need to expand their creative vision, AI Image Expander intelligently generates extended areas of an image, transforming constrained compositions into larger, more imaginative scenes.

Low-resolution images are given new life with AI Photo Enhance[5], which uses advanced models to upscale them into high-definition versions with significantly improving clarity and detail. This feature is ideal for restoring old memories or refining images for sharing.

Nature-Inspired, Durable Design

V60 boasts a premium design that blends elegance and resilience. Its quad curved screen offers an immersive viewing experience, complemented by ultra-slim bezels and a 41° golden curvature for ergonomic comfort. Whether you’re scrolling through social media or playing games, the accidental touch prevention algorithms ensure smooth usability, minimizing disruptions.

Despite its sleek look, V60 is built to last. It boasts IP68 & IP69 Top-Rated Dust and Water Resistance[6], withstanding submersion up to 1.5 meters for 120 minutes and high-pressure sprays of 80°C water. One-Tap Water Ejection removes moisture, while corrosion-proof, platinum-plated ports enhance rust resistance. Further, V60 is the most drop-resistant device in the V series’ history. It is made with a New Diamond Shield Glass[7] that offers better drop performance than the previous generation. This is further supported by an internal Comprehensive Cushioning Structure[8] that absorbs shocks from all angles.

For those who value style as much as functionality, V60 comes in five nature-inspired colors, including Berry Purple, Ocean Blue, Summer Blue, Desert Gold, and Mist Gray. And the Ocean Blue finish features a unique Sapphire Tide[9] process that reproduces the elegance of flowing water.

Large Battery, Powerful Performance

Beneath its sleek profile, V60 houses a large 6500 mAh BlueVolt Battery[10] for full-day use on a single charge, eliminating the need for power banks during long workdays or travel. With 90W FlashCharge[11] technology, users can enjoy hours of power after just a few minutes of charging. Software optimizations like Super Battery Saver and Bypass Charging extend battery life and reduce heat generation, ensuring reliable performance for up to four years.

V60 is powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon® 7 Gen 4 Mobile Platform. This powerhouse handles everything from multitasking to intensive gaming with ease, supported by 12 GB + 12 GB Extended RAM[12] and 512 GB storage.

For mobile gamers, native high frame rate support for titles like MLBB (90HZ) ensures responsive gameplay, while ultra-high touch sampling rates provide precise control. The HDR10+ certified display, with peak brightness levels of up to 5000 nits, ensures vibrant visuals even under direct sunlight.

Seamless Productivity and Connectivity with AI[13]

V60’s operating system has been refined to enhance productivity and connectivity. With Google Gemini[14], users can manage tasks across apps through natural conversations—whether that’s managing daily schedules or summarizing and transcribing videos[15]. Gemini integrates seamlessly with third-party apps like Google Workspace, Spotify, and WhatsApp to streamline workflows.

For international business calls or virtual meetings, the AI Smart Call Assistant provides real-time Call Captions and Translation[16], breaking down language barriers and ensuring smooth communication. After the call, AI Intelligent Summary[17] highlights key takeaways, saving time and improving efficiency. Meanwhile, AI Captions[18] auto-transcribes meetings, translates content, and generates concise summaries, making it effortless to handle any meeting.

Connectivity is stronger than ever with AI SuperLink, which enhances signal strength in weak areas like elevators or underground garages, ensuring uninterrupted calls and smooth streaming. Block spam calls backed by AI protects user privacy.

Availability

Starting today, V60 will be available across different markets including Malaysia, Vietnam, and Taiwan region. The availability, pricing, and specifications of each model may vary according to local market conditions and consumer preferences. For more information, please visit vivo.com.

About vivo 

vivo is a technology company that creates great products based on a user-oriented value, with smart devices and intelligent services as its core. The company aims to build a bridge between humans and the digital world. Through unique creativity, vivo provides users with an increasingly convenient mobile and digital life. Following the company’s core values, which include Benfen*, user-orientation, design-driven value, continuous learning and team spirit, vivo has implemented a sustainable development strategy with the vision of developing into a healthier, more sustainable world-class corporation.

While bringing together and developing the best local talents to deliver excellence, vivo is supported by a network of R&D centers in Shenzhen, Dongguan, Nanjing, Beijing, Hangzhou, Shanghai, Xi’an and more cities, focusing on the development of state-of-the-art consumer technologies, including 5G, artificial intelligence, industrial design, imaging system and other up-and-coming technologies. vivo has also set up an intelligent manufacturing network (including those authorized by vivo), with an annual production capacity of nearly 200 million smartphones. As of now, vivo has branched out its sales network across more than 60 countries and regions, and is loved by more than 500 million users worldwide.

*”Benfen” is a term describing the attitude on doing the right things and doing things right – which is the ideal description of vivo’s mission to create value for society.

Stay informed of latest vivo news at https://www.vivo.com/en/about-vivo/news

[1] Pixel value may vary under different camera modes and is subject to actual usage.

[2] The availability of AI features may vary depending on the apps, device settings, country, region and language, etc. Please refer to the actual use.

[3] Photos will be uploaded to the cloud for processing and then downloaded and deleted from the cloud afterward; Uploading and processing times may vary depending on network conditions and the number of photos (up to 4 can be processed at once), which may consume Wi-Fi or mobile data; AI-generated results may occasionally deviate. If results appear abnormal, try reshooting.

[4] AI Erase requires a network connection.

[5] AI Photo Enhance requires a network connection.

[6] This product has been tested under controlled laboratory conditions and is rated as IP68 and IP69 under IEC standard 60529-2013. IP68 water resistance test conditions: Submerged in static fresh water up to 1.5 meters for up to 30 minutes, with a temperature difference between the water and the device of less than 5℃. IP69 water resistance test conditions: A rotation speed of (5±1) rpm, nozzle angles of 0°, 30°, 60°, and 90°, a flow rate of (15±1) L/min, a water temperature of (80±5)℃, a test time of 30s/position, and the phone placed in a vertical position with the USB port facing down. Splash, water, and dust resistance are not permanently effective and may lessen over time due to daily wear and tear. Do not expose to seawater or other liquids like beverages. Do not immerse the phone in water during daily use. Do not charge the phone in a damp state; clean it and dry it quickly if it gets wet. Damage caused by liquid immersion is not covered by the warranty.

[7] Diamond Shield Glass refers to V60’s screen glass.

[8] This product is tested under controlled laboratory conditions. As a precision electronic product, the phone still carries a risk of damage from drops. Please be careful to avoid drops and collisions. Any damage caused by improper handling is not covered under warranty.

[9] Sapphire Tide is only available on the Ocean Blue edition and is only available in India market.

[10] The typical battery capacity is 6500 mAh, and the rated battery capacity is 6330 mAh.

[11] This product is equipped with a vivo standard charger which supports a charging power of up to 90W. The actual charging power is dynamically adjusted as the scene changes, and subject to actual use.

[12] 12 GB Extended RAM is achieved through software. Actual available RAM/ROM is less due to the storage of operating system and pre-installed apps.

[13] The availability of AI features may vary depending on the apps, device settings, country, region and language, etc. Please refer to the actual use.

[14] Google is a trademark of Google LLC. Available on select devices and internet connection required. Works on compatible apps and surfaces. Results may vary depending on visual matches.

[15] Only available for YouTube videos with subtitles.

[16] Supported languages: English, Hindi, Thai, Simplified Chinese, Traditional Chinese (Mandarin), Filipino, and Malay.

[17] Supported languages: Simplified Chinese, English, Hindi, Indonesian, Thai, Filipino, and Malay.

[18] Planned supported apps:

Apps from developers outside China: Compatible with major international platforms such as ZOOM, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Webex Meeting (Cisco), and other regional apps like India’s JioMeet.

Other social and video apps: WhatsApp, Facebook, Telegram, Instagram, Discord, Messenger, X (Twitter), WeChat, QQ International, LINE.

Apps from Chinese developers (for Southeast Asia, Hong Kong SAR, and Taiwan region): Tencent Meeting, Umeet, DingTalk, and WeCom.

Supports 20 languages: Hindi, Thai, Malay, Indonesian, German, Chinese, English, Japanese, Korean, Cantonese-Traditional Chinese (Hong Kong), Traditional Chinese (Taiwan), Spanish, Polish, Hungarian, Czech, Turkish, Arabic, Urdu, Russian, Italian.

 

 

Korea Zinc and Lockheed Martin Forge Strategic Partnership, Signing an MOU on Germanium Supply and Procurement Under the Shared Commitment of Establishing a Resilient Supply Chain

  • Korea Zinc plans to produce high-purity germanium using raw materials procured outside of China and provide the supply to Lockheed Martin
  • Newly established ‘Germanium Plant’ at Onsan smelter to play a pivotal role in the partnership formed with the leading defense contractor
  • Agreement expected to contribute to the stable supply of germanium, an essential material for the defense and space industries, and actively support private-sector cooperation within the Korea-U.S. economic alliance
  • Marks a landmark success in Korea-U.S. collaborations in the procurement critical rare metals

SEOUL, South Korea, Aug. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Yun B. Choi, Chairman of Korea Zinc (KRX:010130), the world’s largest zinc smelter, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Lockheed Martin, the world’s leading defense company, on August 25 for the supply and procurement of germanium and cooperation in the critical minerals supply chain. This MOU, pursued in line with ongoing Korea-U.S. discussions on economic security cooperation, carries great significance as it leads the establishment of a “China-free” critical minerals supply chain, and marks the first successful case of Korea-U.S. collaboration in the field of critical rare metals.

Korea Zinc and Lockheed Martin signed an MOU on August 25 (U.S. local time) for the supply and purchase of germanium and cooperation on critical mineral supply chains. From left: Ahn Duk-geun, Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy of Korea; Yun B. Choi, Chairman of Korea Zinc; Michael Williamson, President of Lockheed Martin International; and Gina Raimondo, U.S. Secretary of Commerce. [Photo by Korea Zinc]
Korea Zinc and Lockheed Martin signed an MOU on August 25 (U.S. local time) for the supply and purchase of germanium and cooperation on critical mineral supply chains. From left: Ahn Duk-geun, Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy of Korea; Yun B. Choi, Chairman of Korea Zinc; Michael Williamson, President of Lockheed Martin International; and Gina Raimondo, U.S. Secretary of Commerce. [Photo by Korea Zinc]

The signing ceremony was attended by the representatives of Korea Zinc, namely Yun B. Choi, Chairman of Korea Zinc, Mookyung Jung, President of the Sustainability Management Unit, and Kijune Kim, Executive Vice-President of the Sustainability Management Division. The attending Lockheed Martin representatives included Michael Williamson, President of Lockheed Martin International, accompanied by Nancy Ziuzin Schlegel, Corporate Vice President and David Sutton, Director.

Both companies agreed to take the recent Korea-U.S. summit as an opportunity to accelerate the establishment of a China-free critical minerals supply chain at the private-sector level, and to work together to create a successful example of supply chain cooperation.

The MOU stipulates that Korea Zinc will supply Lockheed Martin with germanium smelted (covering the entire process from mining to production) outside of China, North Korea, Iran, and Russia, and that Lockheed Martin will pursue an off-take agreement, securing priority rights to procuring this output. Based on the MOU, Korea Zinc and Lockheed Martin will be beginning detailed discussions toward signing a long-term contract.

Lockheed Martin, formed in 1995 through the merger of Lockheed and Martin Marietta, is the world’s largest defense contractor, notably producing the F-22 Raptor and F-35 stealth fighters, the Aegis Combat System, and the Patriot missile system. As of the end of 2024, its order backlog reached a record high of USD 176 billion (approximately KRW 246 trillion). The company has maintained a cooperative relationship with the South Korean government and local industries for more than 40 years, ranging from assembly production of UH-60 helicopters and F-16 fighters to the joint development of the T-50 supersonic advanced trainer jet.

Germanium is a key material used in the defense industry for night-vision goggles, thermal imaging cameras, and infrared detectors. It is also employed in the space industry for solar panels that power satellites. Additionally, it is an essential metal widely used in advanced technology fields such as high-performance semiconductor devices, specialty gases for semiconductor processing, LEDs, fiber optic cables, and superconductors.

Currently, the world’s largest producer of germanium is China. According to KOTRA, as of 2021, 68% of the global refined germanium output of 140 tons originated from China. The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) has likewise identified China as the leading country among those that commercially produce germanium. With resource weaponization trends intensifying, and growing concerns over the concentration of resource production in certain countries, the establishment of stable supply chains has emerged as an urgent international priority.

In line with the signing of the MOU with Lockheed Martin, Korea Zinc plans to invest approximately KRW 140 billion in its Onsan Smelter in Ulsan to establish a new germanium plant. Following trial operations in 2027, the company aims to begin production in the first half of 2028, with plans to produce high-purity germanium dioxide (amount equivalent to approximately 10 tons of germanium metal). This development will position Korea Zinc as the only domestic producer of germanium in South Korea.

Having established itself as a hub for strategic mineral supply chains, Korea Zinc has been the sole producer of antimony, indium, and bismuth in South Korea. Antimony, like germanium, is also a critical material for the defense industry, used in ammunition and missiles. In June of this year, Korea Zinc shipped 20 tons of antimony on a cargo vessel bound for Baltimore, marking its entry into U.S. exports. The company plans to expand export volumes to over 100 tons within this year and more than 240 tons annually starting next year.

A Korea Zinc representative stated, “As a company representing Korea’s national key industries, stabilizing the supply chain for critical minerals is a highly important strategic task for both the government and the private sector in terms of national interest. Through the signing of this MOU with Lockheed Martin, we aim to strengthen the strategic partnership between Korea and the United States while actively contributing to private-sector cooperation in the realm of economic security.”

Asian Agri Signs Agreement to Supply Renewable Energy to PLN in North Sumatra

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 August 2025 – Asian Agri, through its business unit PT Indo Sepadan Jaya (PT ISJ), has signed a Commercial Operation Date (COD) agreement with PT PLN (Persero) North Sumatra Distribution Unit (PT PLN North Sumatra) to begin supplying electricity from its biogas power plant (PLTBg) to PLN’s distribution network in North Sumatra.

The signing took place at Asian Agri’s headquarters in Uniland, Medan, North Sumatra. The agreement was signed by PT ISJ Authorised Representative Sulaiman Halim and PT PLN North Sumatra General Manager Ahmad Syauki, and was witnessed by senior management from both companies.

In his remarks, Asian Agri Managing Director Sumith Fernando said the collaboration between Asian Agri, a member of the Royal Golden Eagle (RGE) group of companies founded by Sukanto Tanoto, and PT PLN North Sumatra is testament that partnerships between the private sector and public service providers can not only deliver clean-energy solutions but also create a broad impact on communities. “Through this facility, we are not only converting waste into electricity, but are also supporting energy resilience and local decarbonisation efforts,” he said.

The PLTBg facility at PT ISJ has a surplus of methane gas that had not been fully utilised. After technical and feasibility studies, Asian Agri allocated the excess gas to a gas‐fuelled generator to produce an additional one megawatt of electricity. That power will be supplied to PT PLN Sumatra Utara under a three-year power purchase agreement.

The clean electricity generated from this facility will be supplied to PT PLN North Sumatra’s grid in the Rantau Prapat area, strengthening the distribution system and improving the reliability of power supply for surrounding communities.

General Manager of PT PLN North Sumatra, Ahmad Syauki, welcomed the initiative. He explained that the power plant is favoured by PLN, as its presence will increase the percentage of power generated from clean energy sources.

“The biogas power plant will contribute to the mix of environmentally friendly energy in North Sumatra,” Syauki said. “PLN also favours this type of plant because it can be controlled to enter the system according to demand.”

Syauki said he hopes that, after signing of the agreement, more power plants with clean-energy mixes will come online, in line with the master plan outlined in the 2025-2034 RUPTL.

This partnership underscores Asian Agri’s commitment to sustainability through its AA2030 vision, particularly the Climate Positive pillar. The company aims to optimise methane-capture technology across all palm-oil mills to curb greenhouse-gas emissions and reduce reliance on fossil fuels.

Through the use of appropriate technology and cross-sector collaboration, Asian Agri continues to strengthen its commitment to driving the transformation of the palm oil industry toward a more responsible, low-carbon future.
Hashtag: #RGE #AsianAgri #Indonesia #sustainability #RenewableEnergy #Decarbonisation

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

About Asian Agri

Founded in 1979, Asian Agri is one of Indonesia’s foremost companies in crude palm oil production, managing over 100,000 hectares of oil palm plantations and employing over 20,000 people.

As a pioneer of the Indonesian Government’s Smallholder Transmigration Core Plantation Programme (PIR-Trans), Asian Agri has partnered with 30,000 scheme smallholders in Riau and Jambi, who collectively manage 60,000 hectares of oil palm plantations. The company also fosters partnerships with independent smallholders to enhance their welfare and drive socio-economic growth.

Committed to sustainable practices, Asian Agri upholds a zero-burning policy and implements plantation best management practices to help smallholders boost productivity, increase crop yields, and improve supply chain traceability while supporting their journey towards certification. Asian Agri’s mills leveraged advanced technology and self-generated green energy to minimise greenhouse gas emissions.

Asian Agri’s plantations, as along with their scheme smallholder plantations, are full Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) and International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) certified, underscoring the company’s commitment to responsible and sustainable palm oil production.

Please visit Asian Agri’s for more information.

Spike in Kratom-Related Cases Sparks Public Outcry in Laos

A recent surge in Kratom-related arrests and online sales has reignited public debate in Laos, as new regulations aimed at curbing its use face backlash on social media.

KPMG China launches its ‘Our Impact Plan’ ESG report, marking five years of in-depth implementation


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 August 2025 – As climate change accelerates, humanity is facing a greater number of extreme weather events and environmental challenges. In this context, strengthening behavioural management related to climate change has become a central issue of our time. From countries advancing ‘dual carbon’ goals to international carbon trading markets, more organisations are turning their attention to their environmental performance. Green transformation has become a fundamental requirement for high-quality development, with ESG (environmental, social and governance) serving as a crucial guide for this transition.

How can enterprises anchor ESG values to drive sustainable economic and social transformation? On 23 August, this question was explored at the launch of KPMG China’s ‘Our Impact Plan’ report, which was held outdoors for the first time on a lawn in the Futian District, Shenzhen. The event featured keynote speeches, roundtable discussions, and presentations of results, reflecting on KPMG China’s achievements in the ESG field over the past five years. It also brought together government, social organisations, enterprises, and partners to focus on ESG trends and discuss new paths for sustainable development.

KPMG China continues to deepen its commitment to sustainable development

Honson To, Chairman of KPMG Asia Pacific and China, said, “This year marks the 20th anniversary of the introduction of the ‘lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets’ concept and the fifth anniversary of the ‘Our Impact Plan’. Hosting this event in the embrace of nature is highly significant. Looking back at our ESG reports over the past five years, we can see a clear reflection of how our environmental, social, and governance efforts have aligned with the country’s development. This publication not only summarises our steadfast commitments and investments in ESG but also reflects our determination to deepen ESG practices and empower clients and society in order to propel sustainable development.”

Climate change is one of the core drivers of future economic development. Jacky Zou, Chairman-elect of KPMG China, said, “At the national level, the ‘dual carbon goals’ are driving new economic momentum and reshaping the country’s economic development landscape and ecosystems. For enterprises, a high-standard ESG management system is essential for achieving sustainable development and seizing economic transformation opportunities. KPMG China has released the ‘Our Impact Plan’ report for five consecutive years, aiming to set an example and accumulate more cases of ESG information disclosure that align with corporate needs, with a view to promoting the widespread implementation of ESG principles.”

Strategic ESG actions, especially after the mandatory disclosure of future ESG reports, will deeply impact the business layout of companies. From the perspective of sustainable growth, enterprises need to develop a more comprehensive ESG action roadmap that focuses on the present while looking ahead to future milestones and promoting continuous action. Tracy Yang, Head of Corporate Affairs, KPMG China, emphasised, “As an organisation committed to sustainable development, KPMG China continuously explores feasible ESG solutions. We believe that true progress comes from aligning corporate responsibility and national vision through ESG strategies, creating lasting and profound impacts. Companies should not only focus on healthy growth but also leverage the development opportunities presented by national long-term goals to enhance leadership in sustainable business ecosystems.”

The ‘Our Impact Plan’ report released by KPMG China marks a first for the firm by moving the launch event outdoors to a lawn in the Futian District of Shenzhen in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, conveying our strong commitment to sustainable development and showcasing the beautiful vision of coexistence and shared prosperity between humanity and nature. It also highlights the significant progress and outstanding achievements KPMG China has made across four pillars: Governance, People, Planet, and Prosperity. Wilson Pang, Head of Our Impact Plan, KPMG China, stated, “These four pillars complement each other and form the backbone of KPMG China’s ESG ethos. Through its governance principles, KPMG China has established a comprehensive ESG governance framework; and the firm’s people-centred approach highlights its core values. Meanwhile, our efforts to care for the planet reflect our deep commitment to environmental sustainability; and achieving prosperity is at the heart of KPMG China’s ESG mission, pushing us to deliver impactful outcomes.”

Meeting quantified targets and co-constructing ecosystems

During the launch of the ‘Our Impact Plan’ report, KPMG China provided a professional overview, showcasing the highlights and flagship projects of the programme, along with a retrospective of the firm’s five-year journey and future outlook. Wilson Pang emphasised that this year marks a significant milestone for KPMG China in promoting the programme, marking the firm’s evolution from a mere participant to a leader and initiator, and from academic practice to emphasising sustainable development, technological innovation, and the development of new quality productive forces.

KPMG China has been recognised in the ‘2025 Typical Case in the Business Community to Conserve Biodiversity’ and the ‘2025 Corporate Green Transformation and ESG Practice Cases’, reflecting recognition of the firm’s efforts in biodiversity protection.

KPMG China continues to collaborate with the Mangrove Conservation Foundation (MCF) to initiate the ‘Green Bay Area Pioneer Action – Habitat Enhancement of Futian Mangrove Ecological Park’ project, which was launched in September 2024. We also partnered with multiple organisations to jointly launch the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area ESG Biodiversity Corporate Recognition Award, with the goal of encouraging corporate participation in ecological protection. At the release of this year’s ‘Our Impact Plan’, KPMG China officially launched the China Biodiversity Recognition Award to promote the integration of environmental and ecological protection with technological innovation at both the national and regional levels.

KPMG China has purchased 100% renewable electricity for four consecutive years, and KAMPUS (KPMG China’s Hongqiao office) has received LEED Platinum certification. Additionally, 90% of our office floor area is located in buildings with green and/or wellness-related certifications.

We rolled out the new ‘Protect the Future – Action for the Planet’ (‘Protect the Future’) volunteer programme to encourage more employees to engage in volunteer service.

Upholding one of KPMG’s values, ‘For Better – We do what matters,’ we continuously invest in our communities. During the year, over 1,500 KPMG volunteers have participated in various corporate social responsibility activities organised by the firm, contributing over 15,800 total volunteer hours and reaching over 98,000 beneficiaries directly.

KPMG China is also leveraging AI applications to provide comprehensive deployment and application solutions to enterprises.

This year’s event also marks the first time we are launching the report outdoors, demonstrating KPMG China’s commitment to promoting sustainable business structures and protecting natural ecosystems.

From the perspective of ecological co-construction, guests engaged in deep discussions during the roundtable forum on the day of the launch discussing the theme ‘Harnessing the Power of Society to Build a New Paradigm for Biodiversity Protection’. The event also focused on the collaborative achievements of the ‘Our Impact Plan’, and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area ESG Biodiversity Corporate Recognition Award.

Wilson Pang said, “As the global economy becomes increasingly interconnected and the impact of climate change deepens, China is actively advancing the green transformation in areas such as green energy, carbon emissions management, and the green transition of traditional enterprises, achieving significant results in various areas. As a professional services firm, KPMG China closely follows national strategic plans and continuously strengthens collaboration with various stakeholders. Over the past five years, the firm has evolved from initially exploring carbon accounting and supply chain reviews to our current stage, in which we are establishing a comprehensive ESG service system covering all business areas, transitioning from a ‘reporter’ and ‘participant’ role to a ‘promoter’ and now to a ‘leader’.”

The true value of ESG lies in harnessing professional skills to transform sustainable concepts into daily practices for enterprises. The ‘Our Impact Plan’ report is not only KPMG China’s annual ESG report but also a commitment to forward-looking action. In light of the firm’s journey towards net-zero by 2030, KPMG China is actively exploring management methods for carbon reduction and low-carbon practices, and we are striving to provide better insights and practical results for more market participants.

Hashtag: #KPMG #KPMGChina

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

About KPMG

KPMG in China has offices located in 31 cities with over 14, 000 partners and staff, in Beijing, Changchun, Changsha, Chengdu, Chongqing, Dalian, Dongguan, Foshan, Fuzhou, Guangzhou, Haikou, Hangzhou, Hefei, Jinan, Nanjing, Nantong, Ningbo, Qingdao, Shanghai, Shenyang, Shenzhen, Suzhou, Taiyuan, Tianjin, Wuhan, Wuxi, Xiamen, Xi’an, Zhengzhou, Hong Kong SAR and Macau SAR. It started operations in Hong Kong in 1945. In 1992, KPMG became the first international accounting network to be granted a joint venture licence in the Chinese Mainland. In 2012, KPMG became the first among the “Big Four” in the Chinese Mainland to convert from a joint venture to a special general partnership.

KPMG is a global organisation of independent professional services firms providing Audit, Tax and Advisory services. KPMG is the brand under which the member firms of KPMG International Limited (“KPMG International”) operate and provide professional services. “KPMG” is used to refer to individual member firms within the KPMG organization or to one or more member firms collectively.

KPMG firms operate in 142 countries and territories with more than 275,000 partners and employees working in member firms around the world. Each KPMG firm is a legally distinct and separate entity and describes itself as such. Each KPMG member firm is responsible for its own obligations and liabilities.

Celebrating 80 years in Hong Kong

In 2025, KPMG marks “80 Years of Trust” in Hong Kong. Established in 1945, we were the first international accounting firm to set up operations in the city. Over the past eight decades, we’ve woven ourselves into the fabric of Hong Kong, working closely with the government, regulators, and the business community to help establish Hong Kong as one of the world’s leading business and financial centres. This close collaboration has enabled us to build lasting trust with our clients and the local community – a core value celebrated in our anniversary theme: “80 Years of Trust”.

Southern Thailand Pioneers ‘De-Stress Economy’ at Pakk Taii Design Week 2025


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 26 August 2025 – In an era of polycrisis — from climate disruption and geopolitical instability to mounting mental and emotional strain — the very notion of ‘economic security’ is being redefined. For many, especially younger generations, prosperity is no longer measured by GDP or income alone. Instead, the focus is shifting toward quality of life in all its dimensions. This reflects a global trend, with WGSN reporting that 84% of people aged 16 – 24 are actively seeking spaces for genuine mental and emotional renewal. As a result, ‘happiness’ and ‘Gross Well-Being (GWB)’ are rapidly emerging as powerful new metrics for economic progress.

From GDP to GWB (Gross Well-Being): Thailand’s Southern Region Is Piloting the “De-Stress Economy” Model for the First Time in Southeast Asia, Leveraging the Creative Potential of Its 14 Provinces.
From GDP to GWB (Gross Well-Being): Thailand’s Southern Region Is Piloting the “De-Stress Economy” Model for the First Time in Southeast Asia, Leveraging the Creative Potential of Its 14 Provinces.

One region primed to lead this movement is Southern Thailand. Across its 14 provinces, the region combines breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, distinctive local identities, diverse ways of life, and strong infrastructure to form the foundation of a new prototype: the “De-Stress Economy.” This forward-looking model places happiness at its core, harnessing creative city design and high-quality tourism, along with products and services that restore both body and mind. Its success will be measured not only by economic value, but also by feelings of safety, comfort, hope, and joy.

The Southern Region: A De-Stress Economy Sandbox

The “De-Stress Economy,” a new economic model focused on well-being and emotional comfort, is set to be piloted for the first time in Southeast Asia at Pakk Taii Design Week 2025 (PTDW2025), Southern Thailand’s annual creative festival now in its third year. Organized by the Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization), or CEA, in collaboration with public and private partners, creative communities, and local stakeholders, the festival will take place from 28 August to 7 September 2025, across Songkhla Old Town and Hat Yai under the theme “South Paradise.”

Far more than a creative showcase, PTDW2025 serves as a policy sandbox — a real-world testing ground for an economic model that puts well-being at the center. The goal is to establish a health and wellness economy that investors, entrepreneurs, and creatives across the region should not overlook.

To drive this new model, CEA has launched two flagship initiatives: the ‘South Market,’ a prototype platform for wellness-driven products and services, and the ‘Hero Product Incubator,’ designed to cultivate creative entrepreneurs from across all 14 southern provinces and scale innovations aligned with the De-Stress Economy. A centerpiece of the festival will be the exhibition “South De-Stress,” which spotlights the region’s rich culture, local wisdom, architecture, and landscapes — positioning Southern Thailand as a source of distinctive, globally competitive, and sustainable business opportunities.

Four Investment Opportunity Clusters in the Southern De-Stress Economy

For this new model, the 14 southern provinces have been grouped into four clusters Calm, Relax, Energize, and Worry-Free based on their suitability for living, investment, and tourism. These clusters are aligned with an “Emotional Value Proposition,” designed to meet the holistic quality-of-life needs of the new generation of consumers. The opportunities span across areas like quality tourism, creative lifestyles, the wellness industry, and sustainable businesses.

The potential of each cluster will be showcased through creative activities at PTDW2025, allowing participants to feel and explore how the happiness-driven economy can be realized in practice.

Pakk Taii Design Week 2025

(1) Moment of Calm Nakhon Si Thammarat, Narathiwat, and Phang Nga — This cluster emphasizes wellness and spiritual retreat businesses that link faith, craftsmanship, and positive energy.

  • Nakhon Si Thammarat: As a ‘City of Faith’ or ‘Hip & Holy’ rooted in centuries of culture and belief, the city is ideal for investments in Spiritual Wellness & Retreat, and contemporary crafts that deeply connect local wisdom with personal experiences. Highlights include the exhibition 5 Merits + 1 Faith and immersive performance art blending light, sound, and spirituality.
  • Narathiwat: A Multicultural Border City’ known for its exquisite koleh boat artistry, Narathiwat is primed for contemporary lifestyle products and the halal industry as a soft power driver. Discover “Ask Yourself to Narathiwat Beyond,” a forum to explore the art, identity, and daily life of the province, while the photography exhibition “DIALOGUE” Ask Yourself to Buildings, Rivers, Boats, Forests, Mountains, Sea, and Sky, presents fresh perspectives on Narathiwat through a lens that encourages reflection and critical inquiry.
  • Phang Nga: As a ‘New Hub in the Andaman Wellness Economic Corridor,’ its landscape is perfect for Healing & Aura Economy businesses, including Medical & Wellness Tourism with spas, yoga, sound therapy, and herbal medicine. This potential will be demonstrated through an immersive experience. “Jaroen Arn Pharmacy” presents storytelling-based healing with the power of stories and reading combined with workshops in yoga, sound healing, etc.

(2) The Art of Relaxing Yala, Trang, Phatthalung, and Phuket — This cluster connects lifestyle, gastronomy, and fashion to cultural roots and new narratives.

  • Yala: As the ‘Hub for Muslim Fashion,’ there is a fully integrated textile industry, ready to evolve into Malay-inspired fashion brands and fashion-tech products for the regional Muslim market. This potential will be showcased through “NAYU COUTURE,” a runway exhibition of contemporary Muslim fashion, complemented by talks and workshops designed to inspire the next generation.
  • Trang: As a ‘City of Multicultural Food,’ it is primed for growth in gastronomy business and food & root branding that elevates local ingredients into global stories. The exhibition “Trang O-cha” presents visitors to savor the profound flavors and narratives of Trang’s cuisine.
  • Phatthalung: ‘Strong in Local Agriculture under the BCG Model,’ particularly rice varieties, the province has the potential to develop health, beauty, and specialty food products under the “Rice and Growth” concept. The “Tam RICE – Tam-Hrai?” exhibition showcases rice as a cultural emblem and a driver of global opportunity.
  • Phuket: ‘Evolving beyond Tourism into a Wellness MICE and Global Rehabilitation Space,’ Phuket caters to digital nomads and international retirees a world-class lifestyle. The festival will feature exhibitions and activities that prompt new questions about Phuket’s possibilities.

(3) Place of Energize — Krabi, Songkhla, and Surat Thani — This cluster focuses on creative experiences and adventure tourism that inspire and engage multiple generations.

  • Krabi: As a ‘Land of ‘Ancient Nature and History,’ Krabi is ideal for investment in Edutainment, Geo-Tourism, and learning-based experiences. The “Cave Calls: A Thousand-Year Journal Waiting to Be Discovered” exhibition explores ancient geological wonders while blending science and local wisdom in all ages.
  • Songkhla: A ‘Cultural and Creative Connector City’ with strong heritage districts, museums, and contemporary artist networks, Songkhla is primed for co-creation spaces, design retail, and creative events. Its showcase, “Mermaid Song.exe,” captures the intergenerational voices of Songkhla.
  • Surat Thani: Known as ‘A Festival and Entertainment Destination,’ harnesses the vibrancy of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao as stages for Beach Festivals, Music Culture, and Sportainment. Under the concept of Fancy & Party Me,” the festival will feature music festivals and creative event gatherings with local and international artists, installations from recycled materials, workshops, and kids’ zones – showcasing its dynamic blends of celebration and creativity.

(4) Stage of Worry-FreeChumphon, Ranong, Satun, and Pattani — This cluster highlights minimalist inspirations, ecological tourism, and sustainability innovation.

  • Chumphon: As a ‘Coastal Province Rooted in Blue Economy and Marine Conservation Tourism,’ it fosters immersive soundscape experiences and sustainable research-tourism through the “Beneath Chumphon’s Waves” program. This vision comes to life in the “Sailing Sounds of the Sea” exhibition and the “Creative Sounds from the Sea” workshop, where participants can listen, explore, and transform the ocean’s rhythms into healing creativity.
  • Ranong: Known as a ‘City of Slow Living, Forest Bathing, and Wellness Retreats,’ it is surrounded by nature and a planned land bridge to connect the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea, it’s a prime location for a western eco-city. The “Rare-Nong” exhibition will offer an immersive experience that lets visitors soak in the year-round rainy-city atmosphere and a rare sense of peace.
  • Satun: A ‘Global Geopark with a Strong Local Fishing Culture,’ it is suited for sustainable food processing, cultural tourism, and sustainable food security platforms. The “Satun Folk & Fine” exhibition and one-day trip activity highlight community-based living and marine culture.
  • Pattani: Emerging as a ‘Center for Climate Tech and the Circular Economy,’ Pattani is ideal for green startups, eco-innovation, and regional disaster preparedness learning centers. The “Coping with the Present: Environment and Alternative Materials” talk will spark dialogue about a sustainable future, while the “WAQAF – A Space for Contemporary Coexistence” exhibition will present a model for designing public spaces that balance culture, resources, and people.

All four clusters reflect the South’s geographical, cultural, and infrastructural strengths, making the region an attractive destination for investment in the wellness economy. The Global Wellness Institute reports that the global wellness market was valued at over $5.6 trillion in 2024 and is growing at an average rate of 8.6% per year, particularly in the areas of wellness tourism, mental wellness, and creative experiences.

PTDW2025 is more than a creative festival — it is a ‘platform for opportunity’ for investors, entrepreneurs, and creatives to launch pilot projects, discover local talent, and forge policy and business collaborations that deliver sustainable economic and social impact. The event will feature a diverse range of programs, including exhibitions, performance art, talks, workshops, creative markets, etc.

As the saying goes, “In the next economy, well-being is the new era.” In the decades ahead, well-being will emerge as a powerful value and the defining soft power of the 21st century. Experience this transformation at Pakk Taii Design Week 2025, taking place 28 August – 7 September 2025, 11.00 – 21.00 hrs, in Songkhla Old Town and Hat Yai, Songkhla Province. Discover the untapped potential of all 14 southern provinces from fresh perspectives, and find your own equation for happiness in the “South Paradise” experience.

For more details, please visit www.pakktaiidesignweek.com or follow us on FB/IG: pakktaiidesignweek.

Hashtag: #PTDW2025 #PakkTaiiDesignWeek #SouthParadise #CEA



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

About Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization), or CEA

Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization), or CEA, is a dedicated government agency tasked with fostering creativity as a key driver of the creative economy. CEA focuses on developing various creative industries and encouraging the manufacturing sector to adopt creative approaches to enhance product and service value, thereby elevating Thailand’s global competitiveness.

CNOOC Limited Subsidiaries Signed PSCs for Exploration Blocks in Indonesia

HONG KONG, Aug. 26, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CNOOC Limited (the “Company”, SEHK: 00883 (HKD Counter) and 80883 (RMB Counter), SSE: 600938) announces its wholly owned subsidiaries have entered into two Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs) for exploration blocks in Indonesia with SKK Migas, the subsidiaries of other Tangguh partners, EnQuest and Agra.

The contracts were signed for Gaea and Gaea II exploration blocks, which are mainly located both onshore and offshore in southern Papua Barat Province, in proximity to the Tangguh LNG project. The total area of the two blocks is approximately 12,000 square kilometers. According to the terms of the contracts, the first stage of the exploration period shall be 3 years.

In April 2025, the Indonesian government has confirmed the winning bidders for Gaea, Gaea II exploration blocks. The Tangguh partners (including BP Exploration Indonesia Limited, MI Berau B.V., ENEOS Xplora Inc., CNOOC Southeast Asia Limited, Indonesia Natural Gas Resources Muturi Inc. and KG Wiriagar Petroleum Ltd.) jointly hold 40% non-operating interests, of which the wholly owned subsidiaries of the Company hold 5.56% interests in the two blocks. EnQuest holds 40% operating interests and Agra holds 20% non-operating interests.

— End —

Notes to Editors:

More information about the Company is available at https://www.cnoocltd.com.

*** *** *** ***

This press release includes forward looking information, including statements regarding the likely future developments in the business of the Company and its subsidiaries, such as expected future events, business prospects or financial results. The words “expect”, “anticipate”, “continue”, “estimate”, “objective”, “ongoing”, “may”, “will”, “project”, “should”, “believe”, “plans”, “intends” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These statements are based on assumptions and analyses made by the Company as of this date in light of its experience and its perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors that the Company currently believes are appropriate under the circumstances. However, whether actual results and developments will meet the current expectations and predictions of the Company is uncertain. Actual results, performance and financial condition may differ materially from the Company’s expectations, including but not limited to those associated with macro-political and economic factors, fluctuations in crude oil and natural gas prices, the highly competitive nature of the oil and natural gas industry, climate change and environmental policies, the Company’s price forecast, mergers, acquisitions and divestments activities, HSSE and insurance policies and changes in anti-corruption, anti-fraud, anti-money laundering and corporate governance laws and regulations.

Consequently, all of the forward-looking statements made in this press release are qualified by these cautionary statements. The Company cannot assure that the results or developments anticipated will be realised or, even if substantially realised, that they will have the expected effect on the Company, its business or operations.

*** *** *** ***

For further enquiries, please contact:

Ms. Cui Liu
Media & Public Relations
CNOOC Limited
Tel: +86-10-8452-6641
Fax: +86-10-8452-1441
E-mail: mr@cnooc.com.cn

Mr. Cheng Yao
Ever Bloom (HK) Communications Consultants Group Limited
Tel: +852 5540 0725
Fax: +852 2111 1103
Email: cnooc.hk.list@everbloom.com.cn