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Colebrook Bosson Saunders Highlights New Opportunities for Leadership to Drive Performance in Hybrid Environments

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Advertorial Desk
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LONDON, April 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Colebrook Bosson Saunders, the leader in workplace ergonomics, recently released their Beyond the Screen: The Hidden Challenges of Laptop-Based Hybrid Work report. The study shares an insider look into how modern-day professionals really use their laptops, the obstacles faced in hybrid environments, and how most organisations are unprepared for this shift.

The report revealed a widespread dependency, with nearly 90% of professionals utilising laptops for work, signifying a massive shift from traditional workflows. Since the pandemic, 59% of respondents have become more mobile and 46% currently work in hybrid arrangements. With 72% using their devices for deep work, professionals often spend hours in makeshift settings, such as home offices and co-working spaces, that may not be ergonomically designed. Home and office desks were found to be equally common at 72%, reinforcing the hybrid reality.

Laptops are designed for portability rather than long-term ergonomics; professionals often need to choose between the flexibility of shared spaces and the comfort of a proper setup. This ergonomic toll, including improper posture and infrastructure gaps in spaces lacking proper desks, chairs, and lighting, can lead to lasting physical health issues.

This reality also leads to technical and social barriers. Connectivity issues, “battery anxiety”, and device compatibility create a stressful environment. Further adding to the mental load is the communication breakdown between physically dispersed teams, where vital information can get lost in long chat threads and technical barriers during calls.

With this revamped reality, organisations must shift from office-centric models to supporting a truly mobile employee experience. Many treat laptops as basic IT peripherals rather than critical infrastructure; simply put, when a laptop fails, work stops. Organisations must rethink support models and move to proactive leadership that supports the people using the space. By prioritising trust and clarity over floorplans, leaders can reframe the workplace as a supportive environment where well-being and high performance coexist.

For a better look into how leadership shapes these, join the Designing for Humans, Leading for Performance webinar on April 22.

Visit: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/designing-for-humans-leading-for-performance-tickets-1980730606564?aff=APMEA.

About Colebrook Bosson Saunders

Established in 1990 and part of the MillerKnoll collective since 2022, Colebrook Bosson Saunders focuses on seamlessly connecting people with technology, driven by its core values: to innovate, connect, and create.

Media Contact:
Cecil Huang
Senior Marketing Manager – APAC, Middle East & Africa
Cecil.huang@cbsproducts.co.uk

Viet Nam Hospitality and Residential Markets Commence New Growth

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Advertorial Desk
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HO CHI MINH CITY, Vietnam, April 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Over the past year, Viet Nam has sustained a strong recovery trajectory, emerging as a standout performer amid the gradual rebound of global tourism. The country welcomed 21.1 million international arrivals, a 20.4% increase that significantly outpaced the broader Asia-Pacific region’s 5% growth. Notably, this was the first time Viet Nam surpassed Thailand as the leading destination for Chinese leisure travellers.

To provide the latest updates on Viet Nam’s real estate and hospitality markets, as well as regional developments, the MTE HCMC 2026 conference brought together more than 60 international speakers and over 1,400 senior industry leaders. Attendees included real estate developers, hotel owners, architects, design and project consultants, hotel operators, general managers, and industry experts from across Southeast Asia. The event reinforced MTE’s position as a premier platform for industry exchange, leaving participants inspired and better equipped to navigate the next phase of growth.

Within the wider Southeast Asian context, the hospitality sector continues to benefit from strong economic fundamentals, supporting travel demand and ongoing hotel development. Viet Nam has emerged as a solid performer, underpinned by RevPAR growth of 15% compared to 2024, rising occupancy rates, and shifting source markets. These factors further strengthen the country’s position as one of the region’s leading destinations.

Looking ahead, the country is targeting 25 million international visitors this year, an expected 18.1% YoY growth, supported by sustained demand across key source markets. This momentum is underpinned by ongoing government efforts to enhance competitiveness, including visa policy liberalisation, expanded international air connectivity, infrastructure improvements, and strengthened destination marketing initiatives.

Impact of current geopolitical tensions

Despite this positive momentum, recent geopolitical tensions are introducing short-term challenges to global travel flows. The Middle East plays a key role as a global transit hub, connecting Europe and Asia-Pacific destinations and supporting a significant share of global intercontinental transit traffic. Disruptions affecting these hubs are therefore expected to impact inter-regional travel patterns.

At the MTE HCMC 2026, the region’s largest annual real estate and hospitality conference held in HCMC, Mauro Gasparotti, Senior Director, Southeast Asia at Savills Hotels comments, “While Viet Nam remains a fundamentally resilient destination, recent geopolitical tensions are already causing short-term disruption to travel demand, with increasing cancellations, postponements, and re-routed itineraries across key international markets. Although global disruptions are affecting overall travel flows, the country expects to be comparatively less impacted due to its lower reliance on Europe and Middle East inbound markets and its strong positioning within short-haul demand from North Asia, particularly South Korea and China, where travellers may increasingly favour closer, more accessible destinations.”

Mauro Gasparotti, Senior Director, SE Asia, Savills Hotels at MTE HCMC 2026.
Mauro Gasparotti, Senior Director, SE Asia, Savills Hotels at MTE HCMC 2026.

Jesper Palmqvist, Regional Vice President, Asia-Pacific at STR CoStar, notes, “Viet Nam’s hotel market continues to demonstrate resilience, with positive performance trends observed across multiple segments. The ADR displays YoY growth across luxury, upper-midscale, and economy categories, with the extent of improvement varying by segment. Compared with several regional markets, Viet Nam has maintained relatively strong momentum. Destinations such as Phu Quoc and Da Nang are gradually improving their market positioning as they mature and develop further.”

Phu Quoc fuelled by APEC preparation

From a supply perspective, future hotel development in the next three years will remain concentrated in coastal destinations, with Da Nang and Phu Quoc leading in pipeline volume. Phu Quoc is seeing accelerated development in preparation for APEC. According to Savills Hotels, more than 10,000 keys, equivalent to 70% of existing inventory, are currently under development and are scheduled for completion by the end of 2027 to support the anticipated influx of international demand tied to the event.

Mauro adds, “While APEC presents a significant demand catalyst, its success will depend not only on the delivery of new hotel supply, but also on the readiness of connectivity, local infrastructure, logistics capabilities, and the effective coordination across the broader tourism and service ecosystem.”

Rethinking residential and hospitality for long‑term growth

As Viet Nam enters this next phase, attention is increasingly shifting from cyclical recovery to deeper structural reforms required to support long-term stability and demand creation across residential and hospitality sectors.

Hieu Do, CEO of VinaLiving, explains, “To move the real estate market forward, we must return to fundamentals and address structural issues with practical solutions. Residential affordability can only be solved through long-term financing mechanisms and transparent buyer support policies. In hospitality, the focus must shift toward disciplined supply management and value-chain–driven zoning, where content, culture, and activities become core products, helping destinations generate sustainable demand and overcome seasonality.”

Urban branded residences gain momentum

Branded residences are receiving higher global interest, underpinned by sustained demand growth and expanded brand participation across key markets. Globally, the branded residence segment continues to build a strong presence, recording a compound annual growth of 10.9%, doubling the pace of hotel and real estate markets. By the end of 2025, 910 global projects were operational, with the top 10 hotel operators collectively managing portfolios of more than 400 branded collaborations.

In Viet Nam, the market has recently seen an increase in branded developments across the two key urban centres. These projects are also becoming more diversified in terms of positioning, expanding beyond the traditional luxury segment.

Uyen Nguyen, Associate Director, Savills Hotels, adds, “Viet Nam’s branded residence market is reaching an important turning point, with a strong shift from resort developments to urban projects in HCMC and Ha Noi. The growth of this model is driven by several factors, especially the expansion of high-net-worth individuals and the strong trust buyers place in developments backed by international brands. As a result, branded residences are emerging as a key long‑term strategy for developers anticipating changing buyer profiles.”

The conference program also featured a series of insightful keynote presentations and panel discussions from leading industry players, including Accor Hotels Group and Boutique Corporation, QUO, 10design, Mizumi.ai, GroupGSA, Club Med, Amadeus, RH1, and The PuLi, covering key themes across hospitality, real estate, design trends and technology.

The event was co-hosted by An Cuong and Savills Hotels, in partnership with Vietceramics, SALTO, and in collaboration with Hafele, Techcombank, Technal, Nha x Philippe Starck, BOSCH, Gaggenau, Cat Tuong, Hettich, HSBC, Atlas Concorde, Gessi, D-edge, TEKA, Matrix, LQ International, Precor, Syndacast, Unios, Zennio, alongside F&B partners and media partners.

For more information about the event, please contact: Ms. Lisa via Host@wehubyou.com.

Vision Asia Pacific is a registered company which owns WeHub and organizes many event series, including the MTE conference and the HoSkar Night networking event.

PR Newswire is the Official Media Partner of MTE HCMC 2026.

Early family and cultural adaptation support central to international assignment success – AXA Global Healthcare

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Advertorial Desk
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DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 April 2026 – New research from AXA Global Healthcare across ten international markets highlights family wellbeing, cultural adaptation and social integration as three of the strongest predictors of successful global assignments.

Building on eight years of research, AXA’s latest study draws on insights from 689 HR decision-makers and 641 non-native assignees, offering a detailed view of the factors shaping international assignment outcomes.

The research found that family concerns (49%) cultural adjustment (47%) and social isolation (47%) are the three most common drivers for employees ending assignments early.

With the average cost of an international assignment rising by over 50% since 2017 to $79,636 per year above base salary, the case for preparing against these common drivers is made clear to HR leaders.

The importance of family, health and home

The research findings suggest a greater demand for early support beyond the logistics and legalities of moving abroad than that which is currently provided.

When asked, just 1 in 5 (20%) said their family received help with relocation services for their current assignment, yet one in three (33%) say they would expect this type of support from their employer for future placements.

Expectations outweigh provision on health-related assurances too. Whilst current support matches expectation for local health insurance, there is a seven-point gap between the global health insurance currently provided (32%) and the expectation for future assignments (39%). This demand falls in line with broader mobility trends – 73% of HR decision-makers expect more digital nomadism in their workforce over the next five years – global health cover caters to just that.

For organisations, this means reassessing what preparation involves.

“When we think about mobility strategies, the focus should not only be on business outcomes but on how well we prepare people, and their loved ones, for change.” says Ellen Hughes, Chief People Officer, AXA Health Business.

Assignment success requires adaptive support

Of assignments that end early, one in three do so because of difficulty adapting to local culture – and this has been a top three reason for early returns for the last eight years.

Demand for cultural preparation has also increased by 24% since AXA Global Healthcare’s last report in 2020, suggesting that assignees are becoming more aware of the importance of forward planning – and the latest research findings suggest wellbeing provision needs to meet expectations.

Language training support was found to be 12.5% short of expectation, while cultural adaptation support fell further behind, at nearly 20%. The nature of this support – whether it be learning a language or getting to grips with an entirely new culture – suggests that the key is in preparation well in advance of placement to give assignees a better shot at success.

Social isolation: creating the conditions for connection

Over half (54%) of assignees feel their mental health being challenged within the first three months of their assignment. At this point, the environment feels most unfamiliar and assignees that are not adequately equipped are most likely to struggle.

Isolation can be prevented in a variety of ways. The findings suggest expat forums (27%) and support groups (23%) are two valued support mechanisms for assignees. Opening up conversations about psychological preparation for the lifestyle change and providing connections through the workplace with buddy and mentoring systems can also be effective for establishing a social baseline for employees on placement.

Assignees themselves must also take responsibility. Excitement about a new posting can distract from thorough preparation for potential social challenges.

Sean Dubberke, intercultural specialist and Chief Learning Officer at professional training firm RW3 highlights: “Employees can often misunderstand relocation because of simple excitement. This adventurous enthusiasm can delay preparation for the practical and psychological realities of living in a new cultural environment.”

Personal preparation means thinking ahead – maintaining home connections, identifying how to build new ones, and understanding how daily social life will change.

Closing the awareness gap

Across all three areas, employers are providing more support than assignees recognise. Just 19% of assignees cited access to language preparation, against 36% of HR leaders who say they provide it. Similarly, 17% of assignees cited cultural preparation support, compared with 34% of HR leaders. Gaps are consistent for mentoring and buddy systems (28% vs 46%) and expatriate support groups (24% vs 45%).

This is not a problem with resourcing, but communication. Support covering exactly the family, cultural, and social challenges that can drive early returns exists, but isn’t reaching the people who need it. Closing this gap requires clearer communication from employers and active engagement from assignees.

The evolution of global mobility

Short-term placements are predicted to increase by 69% in the next five years and are predicted to shorten further with the rise of digital nomadism. As assignment models evolve, the risks of cultural disconnection, family strain, and social isolation won’t disappear – they’ll become more acute as the window for preparation gets shorter.

For HR decision-makers, two preparation priorities stand out: keep family, cultural, and social support central as these factors become more strongly linked to successful outcomes; and close the awareness gap through consistent communication and shared accountability.

“AXA Global Healthcare’s research demonstrates that in order for preparation to deliver the best outcomes, businesses should design mobility strategies which recognise the full experience of relocation, and individuals must actively engage with the support available to them. Only then can the value and investment at this stage of an assignment be realised.

By strengthening preparation at every level, we can create the conditions for mobility to deliver on its promise: growth for our organisations and meaningful opportunities and experiences for our people.” says Hughes.

Hashtag: #Insurance #AXAGlobalHealthcare




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

AXA Health International (AXA Global Healthcare)

AXA Health International is part of the AXA Health business and specialises in international health and wellbeing solutions. AXA Global Healthcare operates as one of the commercial entities functioning within AXA Health International, providing premium international health insurance to individuals and businesses worldwide and has been protecting the healthcare needs of globally mobile citizens for more than 60 years. Customers are supported in more than 200 countries through a global virtual doctor service, second medical opinion, personal case management, and evacuation and repatriation assistance, with access to AXA’s global medical network of over 2 million healthcare providers. For more information visit axaglobalhealthcare.com.

Hang Lung Ignites Spring with the Second Phase of “66 and beyond” Anniversary Celebration

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Advertorial Desk
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Portfolio-wide Signature Experiences Connect Communities with Localized Creativity


HONG KONG SAR and SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 April 2026 – Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK Stock Code: 00101) (“Hang Lung” or the “Company”) today announced the second phase of its year-long “66 and beyond” anniversary celebrations, unveiling a series of nationwide campaigns across its Chinese Mainland retail portfolio, designed to connect communities and capture the vibrant spirit of spring.

Hang Lung ignites Spring with the second phase of “66 and beyond” anniversary celebration
Hang Lung ignites Spring with the second phase of “66 and beyond” anniversary celebration

The centerpiece of this phase is the “Taste of 66” (怦然春動) national campaign, featuring a curated collection of limited-edition bespoke ice lollipops. Drawing inspiration from the local cultural identity and architectural essence of each of Hang Lung’s iconic “66” malls, the campaign creates tangible, exclusive moments that customers can emotionally connect with this milestone anniversary.

66th Anniversary City-Exclusive Series: Taste of 66 (Artist’s impression)
66th Anniversary City-Exclusive Series: Taste of 66 (Artist’s impression)

The celebratory momentum will continue with experiences that reflect the cultural connections by each property, to highlight a few, Riverside 66 in Tianjin is hosting the “Sweet Encounters” campaign along the historic pedestrian street with dessert-themed art installations and interactive experiences, complemented by a dessert market. In Shenyang, Forum 66 will champion community wellness by transforming its public spaces into a vibrant hub for sports activities, including a 3v3 basketball tournament and pickleball discovery sessions. Meanwhile, Center 66 in Wuxi is captivating visitors with its “Wonderlost in Spring” theme, transforming the mall into a fantastical world of spring adventure, featuring specially designed installations, performances and a series of interactive games.

Plaza 66, Shanghai: Echo Variation (Artist’s impression)
Plaza 66, Shanghai: Echo Variation (Artist’s impression)

Mr. Derek Pang, Senior Director – Mainland Business Operation of Hang Lung Properties, said, “The ’66 and beyond’ theme is a powerful expression of our evolution. We are moving beyond the traditional role of a landlord to become a dynamic platform for community engagement and cultural expression. Our focus is on creating curated experiences that resonate deeply with the unique character of each city. By transforming our properties into vibrant hubs of culture and connection, we create lasting value and enrich the lives of the communities we serve.”

Grand Gateway 66, Shanghai: MINISO x JENNIE Pop-up
Grand Gateway 66, Shanghai: MINISO x JENNIE Pop-up

These vibrant retail activations are part of a holistic celebration that further embodies the “66 and beyond” spirit across Hang Lung’s entire ecosystem. The initiatives complement the year-round hotel offers, which invite guests to celebrate the milestone with thoughtfully curated stay, dining, and wellness experiences at Conrad Shenyang and Grand Hyatt Kunming. As the anniversary year unfolds, the Company will continue to redefine the urban landscape, with further highlights to be announced in the coming months.

Appendix: Key Highlights of Hang Lung’s Celebration Campaigns in the Mainland Portfolio

Mall / City Key Initiative Dates
All Mainland Malls 66th Anniversary City-Exclusive Series:
Taste of 66 		April 11, 12, 18, 19
Center 66, Wuxi Xu Beihong (徐悲鴻) Printmaking Art Exhibition at Center Residences: In collaboration with the Xu Beihong Art Museum, the master’s limited-edition horse prints return to his hometown for the first showing in 2026 March 8 – June 7
Wonderlost In Spring: A magical spring adventure journey March 27 – May 5
Grand Gateway 66, Shanghai MINISO x JENNIE Pop-up: Nationwide debut of the exclusive collaboration March 20 – April 19
Riverside 66, Tianjin “Sweet Encounters”: A month-long celebration of desserts March 28 – May 5
Plaza 66, Shanghai Echo Variation: Celebrating the 25th anniversary April 10 – May 5
Olympia 66, Dalian Wuzhen Theatre Festival Parade:
The acclaimed cultural parade 		April 11, 12, 18
Palace 66, Shenyang Multi-Sport Wellness Series: Zumba, comprehensive fitness challenge, and fencing April 11, 12, 18, 19
Forum 66, Shenyang 3v3 Basketball League & Pro Pickleball Tournament: Major urban sporting events April 13 – 19 and

25 – 26

Spring City 66, Kunming Bafé Wondering: Partnership with “Bread Wander”: A unique collaboration with a popular food IP April 17 – 19
Parc 66, Jinan Sweet Sips Market: A festival of delightful sweet beverages April 30 – May 5
Heartland 66, Wuhan Theatre Carnival: High-caliber theatrical performances May 1 – 3
Basketball Series: Including an influencer-led challenge and a youth basketball tournament May 30, 31

Center 66, Wuxi: Wonderlost in Spring
Center 66, Wuxi: Wonderlost in Spring

Center Residences, Wuxi: Xu Beihong (徐悲鴻) Printmaking Art Exhibition
Center Residences, Wuxi: Xu Beihong (徐悲鴻) Printmaking Art Exhibition

Forum 66, Shenyang: 3v3 Basketball League
Forum 66, Shenyang: 3v3 Basketball League

Riverside 66, Tianjin: Sweet Encounters
Riverside 66, Tianjin: Sweet Encounters

Hashtag: #HangLungProperties

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

About Hang Lung Properties

Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK stock code: 00101) creates compelling spaces that enrich lives. Headquartered in Hong Kong and Shanghai, the Company manages a portfolio of over 3.5 million square meters of retail, office, residential, and hotel properties across Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland.

The Company’s diverse portfolio in Hong Kong includes office towers and malls in prime districts, as well as luxury residential developments in prestigious areas. In the Chinese Mainland, under the signature “66” brand, the Company’s mixed-use and retail developments are regarded as premium landmarks, strategically located in the hearts of key cities of Shanghai, Shenyang, Jinan, Wuxi, Tianjin, Dalian, Kunming, Wuhan, and Hangzhou.

The Company is recognized for pioneering sustainability in the real estate industry, with an MSCI ESG rating of AA and inclusion on CDP “A List” for Climate Change. The Company powers 90% of its operating properties in the Chinese Mainland with renewable energy, with a net-zero commitment by 2050.

At Hang Lung Properties – We Do It Well.

For more information, please visit .

VinFast Introduces Green Vehicle Rental Program In Indonesia And The Philippines, Supporting Greener Transport Services

By
Advertorial Desk
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JAKARTA/MANILA – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 April 2026 – VinFast has announced the expansion of its electric vehicle access model for ride-hailing and transport service drivers in Indonesia and the Philippines, adding a rental option with a range of incentives. The program is designed to make it easier for drivers to switch to electric vehicles, support the shift toward greener transport, and reinforce VinFast’s commitment to reducing emissions across Southeast Asia.

VinFast offers both purchase and rental options for its Green product lineup, including models such as Herio Green and Limo Green, enabling drivers and businesses to flexibly choose based on their needs and financial capacity.
VinFast offers both purchase and rental options for its Green product lineup, including models such as Herio Green and Limo Green, enabling drivers and businesses to flexibly choose based on their needs and financial capacity.

Under the new program, customers can now rent from VinFast’s Green lineup through its authorized dealership network in the Philippines and Indonesia, alongside the traditional purchase route.

Launched amid ongoing global fuel price volatility, the initiative enables service drivers to access cost-effective and reliable electric vehicles with low upfront costs, allowing them to begin earning quickly without the burden of full vehicle ownership. Under the rental model, drivers can start earning quickly with a low upfront deposit, long-term contracts, and competitive fixed daily rates starting from just IDR 312,500 in Indonesia and PHP 1,000 in the Philippines.

For drivers choosing the traditional ownership route, VinFast offers financing solutions tailored for commercial use, structured to minimize initial payments while aligning repayment schedules with drivers’ income streams, thereby supporting improved cash flow and shorter payback periods.

VinFast’s new rental option, together with the traditional ownership route, is designed to provide greater flexibility, allowing drivers and transport operators to select an access model aligned with their financial capacity and operational needs.

The program is centered on VinFast’s Green vehicle lineup, purpose-built for high-frequency transport services. The lineup includes Herio Green and Limo Green, designed to serve a range of use cases from individual driving to high-capacity passenger transport. These models are engineered for durability, energy efficiency, and optimized total cost of ownership, while maintaining comfort for daily operations.

The rollout of the program will begin in key metropolitan areas, including Greater Jakarta (Indonesia) and Metro Manila (Philippines), and is expected to expand gradually across both markets.

In addition, commercial customers also benefit from VinFast’s broader EV ecosystem in Southeast Asia, including support such as free charging at V-Green stations through March 2029, helping lower operating costs and improve overall efficiency.

Ms. Duong Thi Thu Trang, Deputy CEO of Global Automotive Sales at VinFast said: “Expanding access to electric vehicles in Indonesia and the Philippines represents VinFast’s next logical step in advancing the green transition of the commercial transport sector, which plays a critical role in achieving sustainable development goals. This initiative not only provides drivers with a stable source of income, but also contributes to improved quality of life and lower emissions. It underscores VinFast’s commitment to supporting driver communities as they transition toward more sustainable livelihoods.”

VinFast is rapidly building a comprehensive electric vehicle ecosystem in key Southeast Asian markets such as Indonesia and the Philippines, with a diverse product lineup for both individual customers and transport services, alongside a continuously expanding network of dealerships, aftersales services, and charging infrastructure.

At the same time, Vingroup, VinFast’s parent company, is rolling out a range of initiatives to support the green transition in Indonesia and the Philippines, including its Trade Gas for Electric program in these markets, which offers an additional incentive of up to 3% of vehicle value on top of existing promotions, as well as a 10% discount on Green SM electric ride fares in Indonesia through April 30, 2026. Through these coordinated efforts, VinFast is steadily advancing the shift toward greener mobility while delivering tangible economic benefits to customers and communities across the region./.

Hashtag: #VinFast

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

Lao-Vietnam Ties Deepen as Leaders Exchange Congratulations, Delegation Visit Approaches

By
Thongsavanh Souvannasane
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To Lam, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee, was elected president of Vietnam on Tuesday by lawmakers at the 16th National Assembly session. (Photo credit: VCG)

Laos and Vietnam are reaffirming their close bilateral relationship this week, marked by an exchange of congratulations following To Lam’s re-election as President of Vietnam and an upcoming high-level party delegation visit to Vientiane.

Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith was among the first regional leaders to extend congratulations to To Lam after the 16th National Assembly (NA) confirmed his re-election as President of Vietnam during its first inaugural session on 6 April. 

In his message, Thongloun noted that To Lam’s re-appointment strongly reflects the continued trust that the Vietnamese Party, State, and people place in his leadership, recognizing his significant achievements and dedication to the nation throughout his career.

Thongloun expressed confidence that To Lam will lead Vietnam toward greater successes under the Communist Party of Vietnam’s 14th National Congress Resolution, while pledging to further strengthen the two countries’ friendship, solidarity, and strategic partnership for the benefit of both nations and regional peace and stability.

High-Level Visit to Vientiane

Adding to the diplomatic momentum, Tran Cam Tu, Permanent Member of the Secretariat of the Communist Part of Vietnam (CPV), will lead a high-level Vietnamese delegation on an official visit to Laos on 9 April, at the invitation of Vilay Lakhamphong, Permanent Member of the Secretariat of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party (LPRP). 

The visit is expected to further cement the close Party-to-Party ties between Vientiane and Hanoi.

To Lam’s Re-Election

To Lam’s re-election marks his second time serving as president. 

He had previously held the position from May to October 2024, stepping in after the resignation of Vo Van Thuong, who stepped down amid Vietnam’s sweeping anti-corruption campaign. He now simultaneously holds the country’s two most powerful positions, President of Vietnam and General Secretary of the CPV. 

The leadership changes come weeks after Vietnam concluded its 2026 general election on March 15, in which more than 73 million voters elected 500 members of the NA,  a vote held every five years in the one-party state of more than 100 million people.

New PM Le Minh Hung

On the same day, the NA also unanimously elected Le Minh Hung as Vietnam’s new Prime Minister for the 2026-2031 term, succeeding Pham Minh Chinh, who had served in the role since 2021. 

Born in 1970 in Ha Tinh province, the 56-year-old economist previously served as Governor of the State Bank of Vietnam and head of the Party’s Organization Commission. 

In his oath speech, Le Minh Hung pledged to prioritize economic growth and reform.

Laos to Curb Social Media Content Eroding Lao Culture, PM Says

By
Namfon Chanthavong
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Laos to Curb Social Media Content Eroding Lao Culture, PM Says

Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone has urged the Ministry of Culture and Torurism to introduce new legislation to curb and monitor content online that violates Lao customs and traditions.

Speaking at the National Culture and Tourism Work Summary Conference on 7 April, PM Sonexay said social media is damaging how Lao culture is portrayed, and that young people in particular are bearing the brunt of it.

According to him, negative content on new media platforms is pulling young Lao people toward foreign practices and away from their own traditions.

He called on the ministry to put in place legal measures to manage and limit what he described as a phenomenon of cultural degradation.

The push for updated legislation comes as digital and social media platforms continue to grow rapidly across the country.

Beyond media regulation, the PM also laid out other priorities for the ministry this year, including tightening up political and ideological work, trimming down government bureaucracy, and working more closely with local authorities to strengthen cultural values at the community level.

Tourism

On tourism, the Prime Minister stressed the importance of integrating culture into tourism as an experience that can be sold and enjoyed by visitors, rather than just preserved.

He called for the renovation and development of services at national museums across provinces to make them living places of learning for both local communities and international visitors.

He also directed the ministry to promote Lao tourism potential, including cultural, historical and natural attractions, in a sustainable and community-inclusive way, and to plan activities with the participation of multiple stakeholders to stimulate tourism growth.

Explore Asia’s Hidden Trails: Agoda’s Top Picks for Trail Runners

By
Advertorial Desk
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SINGAPORE, April 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Digital travel platform Agoda unveils a selection of trail running destinations across Asia, appealing to those seeking adventure and natural beauty. In 2026, trail running continues to gain popularity as more people embrace outdoor activities that combine fitness with exploration. Agoda’s curated selection of destinations provides both unique terrains and cultural experiences, making them ideal for trail running enthusiasts looking to challenge themselves while discovering new environments.

Moc Chau, Vietnam is a trail runner’s paradise with its diverse landscapes, including lush orchards, expansive tea plantations, and remote areas that remain largely unexplored by tourists. The region’s natural beauty is complemented by the warm hospitality of local villagers, who often cheer on runners. The occasional marathons held here add to its appeal, and present organized events that allow participants to fully immerse themselves in the vibrant local culture and stunning scenery.

Selangor, Malaysia features the challenging terrain of Gunung Nuang, the highest peak in the region. The dense jungle, steep inclines, and diverse wildlife create an adventurous environment for trail running. Runners can expect to encounter a variety of flora and fauna, adding an element of excitement to their journey. The natural beauty and occasional sightings of wildlife make it a compelling destination for those seeking both challenge and serenity.

Victoria Peak in Hong Kong provides a unique trail running experience with its stunning panoramic city views and accessible location. The narrow forest paths offer a challenging yet rewarding run, with the added convenience of being close to the bustling city center. The area is known for its well-organized races, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned runners who wish to enjoy the blend of urban and natural landscapes.

Siem Reap, Cambodia offers trail runners the chance to explore the breathtaking surroundings of the Angkor archaeological site. The area’s picturesque rice fields, quaint villages, and the majestic Angkor Temples provide a scenic and culturally rich backdrop for running. Local marathons enhance the experience, allowing runners to connect with the region’s deep historical roots while enjoying the support of enthusiastic local communities.

Betong, Thailand, a border town near the Thailand-Malaysia border, plays host to trail running races such as the Amazean Jungle trails. The steep ascents and breathtaking views make it a captivating destination for trail runners seeking a more rugged experience. The presence of wildlife, including playful monkeys and exotic birds, adds to the allure of this natural setting.

Jeju Island in South Korea is renowned for its volcanic landscapes and lush forests, providing a diverse terrain for trail running. The island’s mix of rocky paths and serene forest trails offers a unique running experience that challenges and delights runners. The occasional trail races on the island attract participants eager to explore its natural wonders, from dramatic cliffs to tranquil beaches, all while enjoying the island’s refreshing sea breezes.

Jun Dong, Vice President, Supply at Agoda shared, “Trail running is a fantastic way for seasoned runners and beginner enthusiasts alike to explore Asia’s diverse landscapes. At Agoda, we are passionate about helping travelers discover these hidden gems, offering them the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of each location. With our extensive network of accommodations and travel options, we make it easy for runners to plan their adventures and find the best deals.”

Agoda offers over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in the same booking. For more information on these trail running destinations, visit Agoda’s website and find the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app.

 

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