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Sharjah Records $7.3B Real Estate Transactions in First Half of 2025, up 48.1%

PEOPLE FROM 109 COUNTRIES INVEST IN SHARJAH IN H1 – INDIAN, SYRIAN INVESTORS LEAD

SHARJAH, UAE, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Real estate transactions in the emirate of Sharjah surged to $7.3 billion in the first half of 2025, up 48.1% from $4.9 billion in the same period last year, according to Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department.

The number of transactions rose to over 48,000, a 3.3% increase from 2024. Investors from 109 nationalities participated, reflecting Sharjah’s growing appeal as a global real estate destination, driven by diverse property offerings, advanced infrastructure, and rising investor confidence. 

Emirati investors led investments with $3.3 billion in transactions. Other Gulf nationals added $0.3 billion, bringing total GCC investments to $3.6 billion.

India recorded a significant increase with nearly $1 billion in investments. Among Arab nationalities, Syrian investors recorded the highest value at $405 million, followed by investors from Pakistan, Jordan, Iraq, and Egypt.

Britain Leads European Investments
The United Kingdom ranked ninth overall, leading European investors with $123 million in transactions. It was followed by France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Sweden, along with Italy, Ukraine, Greece, Switzerland, Ireland, and Belgium. The US, Canada, and Australia collectively invested $191 million.

Abdulaziz Al Shamsi, Director General of the Sharjah Real Estate Registration Department, credited the government’s commitment to a modern legislative framework for strong performance.

“Current indicators are promising for a prosperous future in the real estate sector”, he said. “We are also continuing our efforts to reinforce Sharjah’s position as a leading economic and real estate hub both regionally and globally.”

The full article can be found here.

–  Image is available at AP –

Hussain Al Mulla
Media Relations Executive – Sharjah Government Media Bureau
+971563980067
Hussain.almulla@sgmb.ae

CoinW Unveils Upgraded Fee Structure and Reward Ecosystem to Boost Crypto Utility and Earnings

HONG KONG, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — CoinW, a global leading cryptocurrency asset trading platform, has unveiled a major upgrade to its spot trading fee structure, alongside additional user benefits and global payment perks. This initiative marks a significant step toward building a trade-to-earn-driven asset ecosystem, offering users more flexibility, efficiency, and profitability.

Spot Fee System Fully Upgraded
Spot Fee System Fully Upgraded

Lower Fees, More Benefits 

The upgraded spot trading fee structure introduces a nine-level system (Lv1–Lv9),  based on either a user’s 30-day trading volume or average daily asset holdings. No applications or manual reviews are needed—tiers are updated daily.

With maker and taker fees dropping as low as 0.020% and 0.030%, CoinW’s rates are well below industry averages—offering strong value without compromising liquidity or capital efficiency. This streamlined model lowers entry barriers for new users while better rewarding active traders and long-term holders alike.

“The update isn’t simply a fee adjustment—it’s a pivotal step in advancing the CoinW asset experience,” said Nassar Achkar, CoinW’s Chief Strategy Officer. “We’re building an inclusive crypto financial ecosystem where users can grow their assets and spend them globally, all within one platform. This reflects our commitment to both technological progress and the long-term promise of democratized crypto finance.”

Seamless Global Payments with CoinW Card

As part of the upgrade, CoinW is also rolling out the CoinW Card—a global crypto payment solution that links your digital assets to everyday spending.

Users can apply for a virtual or physical SGD-denominated card and pay with USDT directly—no need for manual withdrawals. Highlights include:

  • Free virtual card issuance with zero monthly fees
  • Physical cards support global ATM withdrawals with single transaction limits up to $20,000
  • Support for online and offline purchases worldwide
  • Up to 50% off physical card fees during the launch period

More than a payment tool, CoinW Card connects digital assets to real-world spending, advancing crypto adoption worldwide. Whether shopping online or withdrawing cash abroad, users enjoy a truly borderless payment experience.

As part of the Fast-Track Access Program, eligible users can unlock CoinW Card privileges, tiered fee discounts, and extra incentive coupons—all in one go.

Limited-Time Campaigns to Celebrate the Upgrade

To mark this milestone, CoinW will run three user-centric campaigns from August 4 to August 31, providing easier access to discounted trading fees, enhanced reward opportunities, and exclusive benefits:

  • Tier Access at Half Threshold: Trade or hold 50% of usual requirements to enjoy tiered fee discounts for 30 days.
  • 7-Day Fee Trial for New Users: New or migrating users can submit proof of trading or holdings from other platforms to receive Lv3 fee rates (Maker 0.070%, Taker 0.075%) for 7 days.
  • 100% Win Mystery Box Draw: Complete daily tasks for up to 4 chances to win prizes such as discounted fee cards, CoinW Cards, reward coupons, and popular tokens like SOL and PEPE.

These campaigns make CoinW’s asset ecosystem more accessible, providing users with opportunities to engage and transact more efficiently.

By lowering fees, enhancing trading conditions, and enabling real-world spending options, CoinW continues to expand the practical use of cryptocurrencies—turning digital assets into everyday lifestyle tools and making crypto finance more accessible and user-friendly for everyone.

About CoinW

Founded in 2017, CoinW has grown into one of the world’s leading cryptocurrency asset trading platforms, serving a vast and diverse global user base. The platform offers intelligent trading services, with a daily trading volume exceeding $5 billion and a consistent top 4 ranking in CoinMarketCap’s futures markets. With over 10 million registered users, CoinW is deeply committed to advancing wealth creation and blockchain innovation, continually enhancing its product ecosystem with innovations. Since 2022, CoinW has significantly expanded its global brand presence through international sports sponsorships, including a high-profile partnership with football legend Andrea Pirlo. In addition to its commercial growth, CoinW is actively engaged in corporate social responsibility — from donating supplies to orphanages in Africa to supporting animal welfare in Taiwan. Looking ahead, CoinW aims to promote financial inclusion on a global scale, continue leading the cryptocurrency sector, and accelerate the adoption of blockchain technology and digital assets worldwide. To learn more about CoinW, you can visit the website, and follow CoinW’s X Account, and Telegram Group.

Sunshine Lake Pharma Co., Ltd. (06887.HK) Completes Listing, Market Capitalisation Expected to Rapidly Surpass RMB 50 Billion

GUANGZHOU, China, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sunshine Lake Pharma Co., Ltd. (06887.HK) announced that the company will officially list on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on August 7th. Through this integration, the company has effectively combined its expertise in drug R&D with the mature nationwide sales network resources of Sunshine Lake Pharma Co., Ltd. This forms an R&D-manufacturing-sales closed loop to accelerate global operations, thereby driving value reshaping and laying a more solid foundation for future sustainable development, including international expansion.

This year, propelled by policy support, increased capital investment, and the industry trend of innovative drug globalization, the company’s innovative drug segment has demonstrated significant value.

Market analysis indicates that the company’s current commercial pipeline products show considerable commercial potential. The anti-infective pediatric line represented by oseltamivir phosphate, the new drug line represented by hepatitis C, the chronic disease line represented by diabetes, and the centralized drug procurement and new retail lines are expected to bring an annual sales peak of RMB 20 billion.

Innovation and R&D are the core driving force for the long-term development of enterprises. First, we have a rich pipeline of high-potential innovative drugs, with numerous successful results: 3 original innovative drugs have been launched, 49 Class 1 innovative drugs are under development, one of which is about to be launched, and 10 have entered Phase II and III clinical trials; Second, our Sunshine Lake Pharma has many star products. Yinfenidone is the first domestically produced new drug to enter Phase III clinical trials for the treatment of IPF. It also has the potential to expand its indications to include PF-ILD and liver fibrosis. It has the potential to become a best-in-class product in the global fibrosis field. Compared with previous cases, it is a potential blockbuster BD transaction product; Insulin glargine injection has been applied for marketing approval in the United States. Insulin Aspart is about to begin overseas clinical trials; Third, there are dozens of reserve projects with overseas BD potential, many of which have licensing values exceeding US$1 billion.

Chunghwa Telecom Reports Un-Audited Consolidated Operating Results for the Second Quarter of 2025

TAIPEI, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Chunghwa Telecom Co., Ltd. (TAIEX: 2412, NYSE: CHT) (“Chunghwa” or “the Company”) today reported its un-audited operating results for the second quarter of 2025. All figures were prepared in accordance with Taiwan-International Financial Reporting Standards (“T-IFRSs”) on a consolidated basis.

(Comparisons throughout the press release, unless otherwise stated, are made with regard to the prior year period.)

Second Quarter 2025 Financial Highlights

  • Total revenue increased by 4.8% to NT$ 56.73 billion.
  • Consumer Business Group revenue increased by 1.4% to NT$ 34.07 billion.
  • Enterprise Business Group revenue increased by 12.4% to NT$ 18.98 billion.
  • International Business Group revenue decreased by 16.8% to NT$ 2.20 billion.
  • Total operating costs and expenses increased by 4.8% to NT$ 44.19 billion.
  • Operating income increased by 5.2% to NT$ 12.54 billion.
  • EBITDA increased by 3.5% to NT$ 22.58 billion.
  • Net income attributable to stockholders of the parent increased by 3.5% to NT$ 10.17 billion.
  • Basic earnings per share (EPS) was NT$1.31.
  • Total revenue, operating income, net income attributable to stockholders of the parent and EPS all exceeded the upper end of our proposed guidance.

“We’re proud to deliver another outstanding quarter, with results exceeding the upper end of our guidance across revenue, operating income, net income attributable to stockholders of the parent, and EPS,” stated Mr. Chih-Cheng Chien, Chairman and CEO of Chunghwa Telecom. “Second quarter revenue reached a ten-year high for the same period, driven by robust growth in our core telecom services and enterprise ICT business. Despite ongoing global economic uncertainty, evolving geopolitical risks, and the rapid pace of digital transformation, our performance underscores the strength of our business model, the agility of our organization, and our ability to capitalize on emerging opportunities.”

“Chunghwa continued to lead the mobile market, achieving record highs in both subscriber and revenue share,” said Mr. Rong-Shy Lin, President of Chunghwa Telecom. “In fixed broadband, higher-speed plan adoption and bundled service offerings drove further ARPU expansion. We also saw broad-based growth across consumer allocation services, including multi-play packages, video content, and cybersecurity solutions. Our Enterprise Business Group delivered a standout quarter, with total ICT revenue up 37% year-over-year, fueled by strong demand for IDC, cloud, AIoT, and 5G private networks. While our International Business Group faced temporary headwinds due to project timing, demand in Southeast Asia remained solid with new ICT contracts secured in Vietnam and Singapore. We remain focused on expanding our presence in high-growth overseas markets.”

“Looking ahead, we remain confident in our strategy to position Chunghwa as a leading digital enabler in the AI era,” added Mr. Lin. “From launching major submarine cable systems and scaling LEO satellite connectivity, to being upgraded to MSCI ESG ‘AAA’ and receiving prestigious data center awards, we are building a future-ready infrastructure that ensures resilient, secure, and intelligent connectivity—both in Taiwan and globally. These advancements reinforce our industry leadership and create sustainable, long-term value for our shareholders.”

Revenue
Chunghwa Telecom’s total revenues for the second quarter of 2025 increased by 4.8% to NT$ 56.73 billion.

Consumer Business Group’s revenue for the second quarter of 2025 increased by 1.4% YoY to NT$ 34.07 billion, with its income before tax increased 4.8% YoY. The remarkable performance was mainly driven by steady growth in both mobile and fixed broadband ARPU. In addition to stable performance of core service revenues, CBG also benefited from higher smartphone sales, as consumers accelerated purchases in anticipation of potential tariff fluctuations.

Enterprise Business Group’s revenue for the second quarter of 2025 increased 12.4% YoY to NT$ 18.98 billion, mainly driven by our robust growth in ICT business, which saw a 37% year-over-year increase in revenue, fueled by the strong performance of our emerging services. As a result, EBG reported a robust 5.4% increase in income before tax during the quarter.

International Business Group’s revenue for the second quarter of 2025 decreased by 16.8% to NT$ 2.20 billion, while its income before tax decreased 11.9% YoY. The decline was mainly due to reduced demand for international fixed voice services and softening international roaming revenues.

Operating Costs and Expenses 
Total operating costs and expenses for the second quarter of 2025 increased by 4.8% to NT$ 44.19 billion, mainly due to higher manpower cost and the growing ICT business.

Operating Income and Net Income
Operating income for the second quarter of 2025 increased by 5.2% to NT$ 12.54 billion. The operating margin was 22.1%, as compared to 22.0% in the same period of 2024. Net income attributable to stockholders of the parent increased by 3.5% to NT$ 10.17 billion. Basic earnings per share was NT$1.31.

Cash Flow and EBITDA
Cash flow from operating activities, as of June 30th, 2025, decreased by 0.2% year over year to NT$ 29.16 billion.

Cash and cash equivalents, as of June 30th, 2025, decreased by 7.1% to NT$ 35.05 billion as compared to that as of June 30th, 2024.

EBITDA for the second quarter of 2025 was NT$ 22.58 billion, increasing by 3.5% year over year. EBITDA margin was 39.80%, as compared to 40.31% in the same period of 2024.

Business Highlights

Mobile
As of June 30th, 2025, Chunghwa Telecom had 13.13 million mobile subscribers, representing a 2.2% year-over-year decrease. In the second quarter, total mobile service revenue increased by 2.0% to NT$ 17.06 billion, while mobile post-paid ARPU excluding IoT SIMs maintained stable and flat year over year at NT$ 556.

Fixed Broadband/HiNet
As of June 30th, 2025, the number of broadband subscribers slightly increased by 0.7% to 4.44 million. The number of HiNet broadband subscribers increased by 1.3% to 3.77 million. In the second quarter, total fixed broadband revenue grew 1.8% year over year to NT$ 11.59 billion, while ARPU increased 1.9% to NT$ 804.

Fixed line
As of June 30th, 2025, the number of fixed-line subscribers was 8.77 million.

Financial Statements
Financial statements and additional operational data can be found on the Company’s website at http://www.cht.com.tw/en/home/cht/investors/financials/quarterly-earnings

NOTE CONCERNING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS
This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements constitute “forward-looking” statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and as defined in the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates” and similar statements. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about Chunghwa’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from the forward-looking statements. A number of important factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement. Investors are cautioned that actual events and results could differ materially from those statements as a result of a number of factors including, but not limited to the risks outlined in Chunghwa’s filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission on Forms F-1, F-3, 6-K and 20-F, in each case as amended. The forward-looking statements in this press release reflect the current belief of Chunghwa as of the date of this press release and Chunghwa undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements for events or circumstances that occur subsequent to such date, except as required under applicable law.

This press release is not an offer of securities for sale in the United States. Securities may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an exemption from registration. Any public offering of securities to be made in the United States will be made by means of a prospectus that may be obtained from the issuer or selling security holder and that will contain detailed information about the company and management, as well as financial statements.

NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
To supplement the Company’s consolidated financial statements presented in accordance with International Financial Reporting Standards pursuant to the requirements of the Financial Supervisory Commission, or T-IFRSs, Chunghwa Telecom also provides EBITDA, which is a “non-GAAP financial measure”. EBITDA is defined as consolidated net income (loss) excluding (i) depreciation and amortization, (ii) total net comprehensive financing cost (which is comprised of net interest expense, exchange gain or loss, monetary position gain or loss and other financing costs and derivative transactions), (iii) other income, net, (iv) income tax, (v) (income) loss from discontinued operations.

In managing the Company’s business, Chunghwa Telecom relies on EBITDA as a means of assessing its operating performance because it excludes the effect of (i) depreciation and amortization, which represents a non-cash charge to earnings, (ii) certain financing costs, which are significantly affected by external factors, including interest rates, foreign currency exchange rates and inflation rates, which have little or no bearing on our operating performance, (iii) income tax (iv) other expenses or income not related to the operation of the business. 

CAUTIONS ON USE OF NON-GAAP FINANCIAL MEASURES
In addition to the consolidated financial results prepared under T-IFRSs, Chunghwa Telecom also provide non-GAAP financial measures, including “EBITDA”. The Company believes that the non-GAAP financial measures provide investors with another method for assessing its operating results in a manner that is focused on the performance of its ongoing operations.

Chunghwa Telecom’s management believes investors will benefit from greater transparency in referring to these non-GAAP financial measures when assessing the Company’s operating results, as well as when forecasting and analyzing future periods. However, the Company recognizes that:

  • these non-GAAP financial measures are limited in their usefulness and should be considered only as a supplement to the Company’s T-IFRSs financial measures;
  • these non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered in isolation from, or as a substitute for, the Company’s T-IFRSs financial measures;
  • these non-GAAP financial measures should not be considered to be superior to the Company’s T-IFRSs financial measures; and
  • these non-GAAP financial measures were not prepared in accordance with T-IFRSs and investors should not assume that the non-GAAP financial measures presented in this earnings release were prepared under a comprehensive set of rules or principle.

Further, these non-GAAP financial measures may be unique to Chunghwa Telecom, as they may be different from non-GAAP financial measures used by other companies. As such, this presentation of non-GAAP financial measures may not enhance the comparability of the Company’s results to the results of other companies. Readers are cautioned not to view non-GAAP results as a substitute for results under T-IFRSs, or as being comparable to results reported or forecasted by other companies.

About Chunghwa Telecom
Chunghwa Telecom (TAIEX 2412, NYSE: CHT) (“Chunghwa” or “the Company”) is Taiwan’s largest integrated telecommunications services company that provides fixed-line, mobile, broadband, and internet services. The Company also provides information and communication technology services to corporate customers with its big data, information security, cloud computing and IDC capabilities, and is expanding its business into innovative technology services such as IoT, AI, etc. Chunghwa has been actively and continuously implemented environmental, social and governance (ESG) initiatives with the goal to achieve sustainability and has won numerous international and domestic awards and recognitions for its ESG commitments and best practices. For more information, please visit our website at www.cht.com.tw

Contact: Angela Tsai
Phone: +886 2 2344 5488
Email: chtir@cht.com.tw

Clarisound rolls out mobile and tele-audiology services across Malaysia


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 August 2025 – Clarisound is revolutionizing hearing care delivery by bringing professional audiology services directly to Malaysians through online tests, telecare appointments, and digital tools—extending expert support to homes, offices, and virtually anywhere.

Remote Hearing Healthcare

The company’s Telecare service supports existing Clarisound customers who’ve completed in-person hearing tests, otoscopy, and device fitting. These foundational steps require face-to-face interaction for accuracy. Once established, Telecare bridges the gap between visits, delivering professional expertise wherever customers are.

Recognizing widespread reluctance to address hearing issues, Clarisound offers online hearing tests accessible via smartphone or computer. This discreet, minutes-long assessment provides an entry point for those uncertain about their hearing health or hesitant to seek clinical care.

Technology-Driven Accessibility

Telecare services complement in-store consultations through video appointments with qualified audiologists who evaluate, adjust, and troubleshoot remotely. This approach reduces travel time and costs while ensuring continuity for those with mobility challenges or time constraints.

“Telecare isn’t a replacement, but a smart extension of personalized hearing care,” explains Kieran McCarry, Clarisound’s founder. “In-person visits remain essential for comprehensive assessments—hearing tests, ear examinations, real-ear measurements, and initial fittings. However, Telecare maintains connection between appointments, supporting aural rehabilitation with remote adjustments that fit seamlessly into daily life. This proactive approach enhances comfort and drives better long-term outcomes.”

Bridging Technology and Health

Clarisound leverages growing interest in devices like Apple AirPods Pro2 as conversation starters about hearing health. While not medical-grade substitutes, features like “Conversation Boost” increase sound quality awareness, prompting users to seek professional advice.

Regional Impact

This model proves particularly impactful where hearing health awareness is developing. By eliminating traditional barriers—geographic distance, stigma, and clinical accessibility—Clarisound empowers individuals to address hearing health earlier and more confidently.

The integration of mobile technology, online testing, and professional telecare positions Clarisound as a Malaysian healthcare leader. Rather than treating hearing loss as niche, the company reframes it as central to everyday health. With every mobile test, teleconsultation, or hearing aid fitted, Clarisound brings hearing care out of clinical settings into daily life, where it belongs.

Hashtag: #Clarisound

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

About Clarisound

Clarisound is a leading hearing care provider delivering accessible, expert audiology services. Focusing on user experience and early intervention, the company combines advanced technology with professional care to support hearing health across Malaysia.

Alstom to convert Singapore East West Line stations to the Urbalis signalling system for the Thomson-East Coast Line extension (TELe)

  • The Land Transport Authority of Singapore has awarded the contract to Alstom for the design, supply, installation, testing and commissioning of the Urbalis CBTC system to enable fully automated, high-capacity operation.
  • The contract scope covers converting Tanah Merah, Expo, and Changi Airport stations to the TEL system, and equipping the line’s extension to the future Changi Airport Terminal 5.
  • TELe, the Thomson-East Coast Line extension to Changi Airport will provide a direct, high-speed connection to central city areas and residential zones, cutting travel times for both commuters and international travellers.

SINGAPORE, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ —  Alstom, a global leader in smart and sustainable mobility, has been awarded a contract by the Land Transport Authority of Singapore to deliver a high-capacity driverless signalling system for the stations of the East West Line which will connect to the Thomson-East Coast Line extension (TELe). The contract, worth a couple of hundred million euros covers the conversion of Tanah Merah, Expo, and Changi Airport stations to TEL, and the equipment of the line extension to the future Changi Airport Terminal 5 station. This extension will directly connect the TEL to Changi Airport, improving passenger experience and journey efficiency, while advancing Singapore’s Land Transport Master Plan 2040 (LTMP 2040) objective of seamless, end-to-end connectivity.

As the signalling consortium leader, Alstom will provide its Urbalis CBTC system, the same platform already in successful operation on TEL, while its consortium partner, ST Engineering Urban Solutions Ltd. will provide the Data Communication System (DCS) and Platform Screen Doors (PSD).

The TEL extension to Changi Airport will provide a direct, high-speed connection to central city areas and residential zones, cutting travel times for both commuters and international travellers. This development represents a key milestone under the LTMP 2040 plan to deliver greater connectivity, resilience, and inclusivity in Singapore’s land transport system.  

Upon completion, the 57 km TEL will run from Tanah Merah through major locations like Gardens by the Bay, Maxwell, Orchard, and up to Woodlands North, with a transfer option to the Johor Bahru – Singapore Rapid Transit System Link. The TEL is expected to reduce travel time between Changi Airport and Marina Bay from 55 minutes to approximately 45 minutes. Additionally, journeys between Changi Airport and Gardens by the Bay will be shortened to 40 minutes via the TEL, compared to the current 60-minute duration.

Yann Maixandeau, Managing Director, Singapore & Malaysia, Alstom said, “Alstom is proud to have supported Singapore’s rail development for over two decades, delivering cutting-edge rolling stock and signalling systems that have shaped the nation’s urban mobility. This latest award reflects our leadership in advanced, driverless train control systems. We are honoured to contribute to the LTMP 2040 vision by enabling seamless, efficient and sustainable journeys between city and Changi Airport through TEL’s extension.”

This latest contract strengthens Alstom’s long standing presence in Singapore and builds on its successful delivery of the most recent signalling system in Singapore, TEL Stage 4, that commenced service in June 2024.  

As a leader in the communications-based train control (CBTC) segment, Alstom’s comprehensive CBTC portfolio supports both conventional and intelligent solutions. It can be adapted to all levels of complexity—whether greenfield or brownfield projects—across all grades of automation.

With over 30 years of expertise in CBTC, Alstom’s Urbalis signalling system is deployed on 190 metro lines, including 67 fully driverless lines in 32 countries, safely transporting millions of passengers every day. In addition to enabling higher operational efficiency and flexibility, Urbalis systems can reduce energy consumption by up to 30% through intelligent, energy-saving strategies.

ALSTOM™, Urbalis™ are protected trademarks of the Alstom Group.

About Alstom

Alstom commits to contribute to a low carbon future by developing and promoting innovative and sustainable transportation solutions that people enjoy riding. From high-speed trains, metros, monorails, trams, to turnkey systems, services, infrastructure, signalling and digital mobility, Alstom offers its diverse customers the broadest portfolio in the industry. With its presence in 63 countries and a talent base of over 86,000 people from 184 nationalities, the company focuses its design, innovation, and project management skills to where mobility solutions are needed most. Listed in France, Alstom generated sales of €18.5 billion for the fiscal year ending on 31 March 2025.  
For more information, please visit www.alstom.com.

1 in Every 25 Singaporeans Visiting Japan Chooses MIMARU — Popular Apartment Hotel Brand to Propose “Learn-and-play Family Holidays” for First Time

TOKYO, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Cosmos Hotel Management Co., Ltd., operator of Japan’s leading apartment hotel brand MIMARU, will exhibit at NATAS Holidays 2025 to be held from August 15 to 17 at Singapore EXPO. For the first time, MIMARU is proposing a new kind of family holiday for Singaporean travelers this autumn and winter — hands-on trips to Japan that combine STEAM-themed learning experiences with the beauty of Japan’s seasonal landscapes and traditional cultural activities.

Photo1: https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M107482/202507292874/_prw_PI1fl_eswOKrP0.png 

What Makes MIMARU Favorite for Singaporean Families

-Over 90% of guests are international families.

-Spacious rooms from about 40 to 100 square meters, ideal for families and groups.

-All rooms equipped with kitchens and living/dining areas.

-Friendly, English-speaking staff from 38 countries and regions.

-27 locations across Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, offering apartment-style stays in convenient city settings.

-Convenient access from Singapore: direct flights to Tokyo (about seven hours) and Osaka (about six hours 40 minutes), with most MIMARU locations reachable within an hour from the airport.

This explains why one in every 25 Singaporean visitors to Japan stayed at MIMARU in 2024. (Based on MIMARU’s 2024 guest data)

For more information, visit: https://mimaruhotels.com/en/ 

Photo2: https://cdn.kyodonewsprwire.jp/prwfile/release/M107482/202507292874/_prw_PI2fl_4TP4u9PC.png 

Experience Japan Differently: MIMARU’s Family Learning Holiday Ideas

1.Explore Science & Pop Culture through Hands-on Activities

Discover digital art at teamLab Planets, futuristic gadgets in Akihabara, and science museums in Osaka — ideal destinations for STEAM education experiences that transcend language barriers.

2.Enjoy Japan’s Beautiful Autumn & Winter Landscapes

Collect colorful leaves, visit temples, and experience the charm of Japan’s four seasons during cool, crisp walks through city streets and nature.

3.Join Traditional Japanese Festivities

Try mochi-making, help craft New Year’s decorations, and experience heart-warming local traditions that offer unique cultural insights for families.

“At MIMARU, we welcome many families from Singapore throughout the year. We’re happy to propose this new travel idea combining STEAM education and cultural experiences, based on what we’ve seen many children enjoy.” — MIMARU Staff

MIMARU supports children’s growth and quality family time through unique travel experiences in Japan.

For more information, visit: https://mimaruhotels.com/en/news/family-friendly-japan-with-mimaru/ 

teamLab, Rapidly Rotating Bouncing Spheres in the Caterpillar House (C) teamLab

All images: https://kyodonewsprwire.jp/release/202507292874?p=images 

Thai, Cambodian Border Remains Calm as Diplomatic Talks Continue

This image is for representation purpose only.

The situation along the Thai-Cambodian border remained calm on the morning of 5 August, coinciding with ongoing General Border Committee (GBC) meetings between Thailand and Cambodia in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The talks, held from 4 to 6 August, mark a critical step in easing tensions following a deadly outbreak of violence in late July.

High-level officials from both countries convened in the Malaysian capital on 4 August to reinforce a fragile ceasefire. The meeting, hosted by Malaysia and observed by representatives from China, the United States, and ASEAN, is part of a broader diplomatic push to prevent further conflict along the disputed border.

The recent violence, described as the worst in over a decade, left at least 43 people dead and displaced more than 300,000. Fighting erupted after months of escalating tensions, triggered by the death of a Cambodian soldier in May and the wounding of Thai troops by landmines in July. The five-day conflict included infantry engagements, artillery strikes, air raids, and rocket fire.

A ceasefire was brokered on 28 July under pressure from the United States, which warned both nations that future trade agreements could be jeopardized if hostilities continued.

Despite the truce, tensions persist. Cambodia accuses Thailand of violating the agreement by installing barbed wire in disputed areas, while Thailand claims Cambodia has been reinforcing its military presence. Phnom Penh is also demanding the release of 18 Cambodian soldiers captured during the clashes. Thailand has returned two wounded soldiers but insists the remainder will be freed only when hostilities fully cease.

Further high-level talks are scheduled for 7 August.

Long-Standing Temple Dispute Reignites Deadly Clashes

The conflict was sparked by a 28 May skirmish that killed one Cambodian soldier and reignited a long-running territorial dispute centered on ownership of ancient temples and surrounding land, particularly the Preah Vihear and Ta Muen Thom temples. Though tensions had simmered for years, major fighting broke out on 24 July near the Ta Muen Thom temple.

By 27 July, the border conflict had entered its fourth consecutive day, drawing increasing concern from the international community. According to Thailand’s Ministry of Health, at least 12 people were killed and more than 40 injured by that point.

Despite global appeals for calm, both artillery and rocket fire continued near the disputed temple zones, impacting Thailand’s Ubon Ratchathani and Surin provinces, as well as Cambodia’s Oddar Meanchey region. Journalists in Samraong, Cambodia, reported hearing shelling throughout the morning of 27 July.

U.S. President Donald Trump said he had spoken directly with both Cambodian and Thai leaders, calling for an immediate ceasefire and warning that ongoing trade talks with the U.S. would be suspended until the violence ceased. Cambodia has since requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council.

Regional and international reactions have been swift. Laos urged both parties to exercise restraint, while France and the Philippines condemned the violence and emphasized the importance of a peaceful, lawful resolution. France has advised its citizens to leave the affected areas.

Despite diplomatic engagement and rising international pressure, the border remains volatile, with both sides accusing each other of provocation.

The clashes have displaced more than 300,000 people on both sides of the border, underscoring the urgent need for sustained dialogue and a long-term resolution.