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Luang Prabang Limits Lunar New Year Decorations to Protect World Heritage Status

A picture to show as an example of lunar new year decoration. (Picture by Luangprabang-laos)

Luang Prabang authorities have approved limited Lunar New Year decorations from 15 to 22 February, imposing strict conditions to safeguard the city’s UNESCO World Heritage character.

In a notice issued on 10 February, the Luang Prabang City Administration outlined guidelines for Vietnamese and Chinese New Year displays, stating the measures aim to balance cultural celebrations with the preservation of the city’s historic identity, public order, and cleanliness.

Hotels, guesthouses, restaurants, and Lao citizens of Vietnamese and Chinese heritage may display lanterns, congratulatory banners, and traditional ornaments. 

However, decorations must remain modest in size and must not obstruct temples, historic buildings, traffic signs, or public spaces.

Authorities also instructed that lighting and colors should not clash with Lao cultural identity or disrupt the city’s traditional streetscape.

All decorations must be removed immediately after 22 February. Fireworks and other explosive materials are strictly prohibited due to safety concerns.

The Department of Information, Culture and Tourism, in coordination with local security authorities, will monitor compliance. Officials warned that violations will be handled under existing regulations.

Savannakhet’s 270-Meter Wooden Bridge Faces Final Season as Concrete Span Nears Completion

Laos' longest wooden bridge in Nong district, Savannakhet Province.

Laos’ longest wooden bridge in Savannakhet Province may soon see its final season, as authorities move closer to opening a permanent concrete replacement across the Xe Lanong River.

Stretching approximately 270 meters in length and 3 meters in width, the wooden bridge links Along village with Nong district’s city center. Each year, floodwaters during the rainy season wash it away, and residents from neighboring villages rebuild it by hand. 

The most recent reconstruction took place on 8 December 2025, when over 100 villagers joined forces to complete the entire bridge in a single day.

For years, the bridge has served as a vital daily transport route for local communities while symbolizing unity, cooperation, and a simple rural way of life. 

Its annual reconstruction has also drawn visitors and tourists, many of whom admire both its impressive scale and the spirit of solidarity behind its construction.

However, according to local reports, 2026 may be the wooden bridge’s final year.

Nong district authorities are accelerating construction of a permanent reinforced concrete bridge across the Xe Lanong River, which is anticipated to open for traffic soon. 

While the new structure will provide year-round reliability and eliminate the annual rebuilding burden, it also signals the end of a generations-old tradition that has united these communities.

LG ELECTRONICS TO SHOWCASE EXPANDED SKS LUXURY KITCHEN AND LAUNDRY APPLIANCE LINEUP AT KBIS 2026

LG Introduces First SKS Laundry Collection and New Kitchen Innovations to Strengthen Position in Global Builder and Luxury Appliance Markets

News Summary 

  • LG Electronics will unveil an expanded SKS luxury appliances portfolio at KBIS 2026, including the brand’s first-ever luxury laundry lineup.
  • The new laundry collection enhances washing and drying performance with solutions such as the all-in-one SKS WashCombo™ and a large-capacity dryer.
  • New kitchen innovations – such as the 36-inch Integrated Column Freezer and Column Refrigerator, and the Full-Flex Induction Cooktop – leverage advanced AI to enhance efficiency and the culinary experience.

SEOUL, South Korea, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — LG Electronics (LG) is set to unveil an expanded portfolio of SKS products at the 2026 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show (KBIS), taking place in Orlando, Florida, from February 17-19. Featuring the brand’s first-ever laundry lineup along with its latest kitchen innovations, the showcase demonstrates SKS’s commitment to providing fully integrated residential solutions for the North American builder and luxury home appliance markets.

LG Electronics is set to unveil an expanded portfolio of SKS luxury appliances at KBIS 2026, including the brand’s first-ever luxury laundry lineup.
LG Electronics is set to unveil an expanded portfolio of SKS luxury appliances at KBIS 2026, including the brand’s first-ever luxury laundry lineup.

A Comprehensive Laundry Solution for an Enhanced Experience

The new total laundry solution embodies SKS’s core values by combining advanced fabric-care technologies with refined design and intuitive usability. On show at KBIS, the SKS WashCombo™ delivers advanced washing and drying performance with a large 5.8-cubic-foot capacity. It features AI Wash & Dry with AI DD™ technology for precise, gentle fabric care. In addition, the WashCombo’s Dual Inverter Heat Pump supports energy-efficient, low-temperature drying that helps preserve fabrics while reducing energy use.

Displayed alongside the WashCombo, the new SKS dryer offers a generous 9.0-cubic-foot capacity for larger loads. Its AI Sensor Dry technology intelligently detects fabric texture and moisture levels to automatically adjust drying time and temperature for effective, energy-efficient performance. The SKS laundry lineup supports flexible configurations, including a 3-in-1 system (WashCombo with 1.0-cubic-foot MiniWash™) or a streamlined pair (WashCombo and dryer), giving customers the flexibility to create customized setups for different lifestyles and spaces.

The new laundry solutions feature a seamless Full-Flat design that integrates effortlessly and elegantly with luxury interiors. Each model includes a 6.8-inch LCD touch display with customizable user-experience widgets for intuitive, personalized control and enhanced visibility. The Tilting Display Control automatically adjusts the screen angle when activated, providing a more ergonomic viewing and touch experience.

Seamless, High-Capacity 36-inch Column Freezer and Refrigerator

At KBIS 2026, SKS will introduce its first 36-inch Integrated Column Freezer and Column Refrigerator. Both products feature panel‑ready design that gives customers the flexibility to integrate custom door panels or SKS’s stainless steel door panels. The products blend seamlessly into the kitchen space and built-in aesthetic while still maximizing storage capacity. Ideal for those who love entertaining at home, the new models come with differentiated Ice & Water solutions. The freezer’s dual ice maker offers both standard cubed ice and 2nd generation 60mm grand Craft Ice® – perfect for whiskey on the rocks – while the refrigerator offers a discreet internal water dispenser.

The seamless, panel-ready design of the new column freezer and fridge provides a sophisticated built-in aesthetic that exudes luxury and refinement. Ultra-premium SKS quality extends to the products’ interiors, which employ luxurious metal and glass door bins. Elegance and ease-of-use are further enhanced by the Wide-Top & Shelf-Emitting Lighting System. Customers can choose from two handle options –  Professional(bold type) and Transitional(sleek type) – to complement their kitchen design.

Smart features further enhance convenience. The freezer’s AI Ice Pro automatically increases ice production ahead of expected high-demand periods based on usage patterns, while the refrigerator’s AI Fresh adjusts cooling performance prior to anticipated heavy usage to help maintain optimal food preservation. These functions can be managed via a full-touch, color wide 6.8-inch LCD display, introduced in SKS products for the first time.

36-inch Full-Flex Induction Cooktop for Versatile Cooking

The SKS 36-inch Full-Flex Induction Cooktop elevates everyday cooking with extended, flexible cooking zones that support simultaneous use of two large cookware items (up to 320 millimeters). Intelligent features include AI Water Boiling Alert, which sends real-time notifications via the cooktop display and LG ThinQ app when water reaches a boil and automatically adjusts heat output to help prevent over-boiling. Meanwhile, the innovative Power Shift Plus™ feature learns user cooking patterns to enable intuitive, hands-free control – increasing heat when a pan is moved forward and reducing it to a simmer when moved to the back.

“By expanding the SKS lineup from kitchen appliances into laundry, LG Electronics is advancing its vision for a comprehensive luxury living solution,” said Steve Baek, president of the LG Home Appliance Solution Company. “With our differentiated technologies and integrated space solutions, we will continue to strengthen our leadership in the global B2B and luxury appliance markets.”

Visitors to KBIS 2026 can experience the complete SKS lineup at LG’s booth (#W2100, Orange County Convention Center).

About LG Electronics Home Appliance Solution Company 

The LG Home Appliance Solution Company (HS) is a global leader in home appliances and AI home solutions. By leveraging industry-leading core technologies, the HS Company is committed to enhancing consumers’ quality of life and promoting sustainability. The company develops thoughtfully designed kitchen and living appliance solutions and has recently integrated LG’s Robot Business Division to incorporate advanced robot technologies into its home solutions. Together, these products offer enhanced convenience, exceptional performance, efficient operation and sustainable lifestyle solutions. For more news on LG, visit www.LGnewsroom.com.

About SKS

SKS, formerly known as Signature Kitchen Suite, is the award-winning luxury appliance brand backed by LG Electronics. Fueled by a passion for innovation, we create luxury appliances that redefine what’s possible and unite precision with unparalleled performance. Our guiding principles of purposeful design and bold innovation infuse every product. With a commitment to excellence and passion for pushing boundaries, SKS has earned international accolades for our groundbreaking appliances. We continue to transform the modern kitchen, delivering an elevated culinary experience. From the pioneering built-in sous vide range to Gourmet AI in our wall ovens, SKS embodies cutting-edge, best-in-class technology. Visit www.sksappliances.com or follow the brand on social channels @SKSappliances.

 

 

The SKS WashCombo™ and the new SKS dryer deliver intelligent, AI-powered washing and drying performance, offering flexible configurations for customized setups.
The SKS WashCombo™ and the new SKS dryer deliver intelligent, AI-powered washing and drying performance, offering flexible configurations for customized setups.

SKS will introduce its first 36-inch Integrated Column Freezer and Refrigerator, delivering high capacity and sophisticated built-in aesthetic.
SKS will introduce its first 36-inch Integrated Column Freezer and Refrigerator, delivering high capacity and sophisticated built-in aesthetic.

The SKS 36-inch Full-Flex Induction Cooktop elevates everyday cooking with flexible cooking zones and intelligent features.
The SKS 36-inch Full-Flex Induction Cooktop elevates everyday cooking with flexible cooking zones and intelligent features.

A Constellation of Excellence – Galaxy Macau Secures 12 Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards in 2026

The luxury integrated resort extends its record-setting run, raising the bar for the fourth consecutive year with three new five-star awards; distinguishing its singular vision for world-class hospitality with the most Forbes Travel Guide five-star hotels under one roof


MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 February 2026 – In the ever-evolving world of luxury hospitality, consistency is the true measure of distinction. For the fourth consecutive year, Galaxy Macau has not only met this standard, but has redefined it, securing an unprecedented 12 Five-Star awards in the highly anticipated 2026 Forbes Travel Guide. This achievement reaffirms its position as a global leader and marks the fourth consecutive year it has broken its own record for having the most Five-Star hotels under a single roof. It’s a move that underscores a steadfast dedicated to quality and service, further burnishing Macau’s credentials as a World Centre for Tourism and Leisure.

Galaxy Macau achieves a remarkable industry-leading milestone with 12 Five-Star accolades in Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards 2026.
Galaxy Macau achieves a remarkable industry-leading milestone with 12 Five-Star accolades in Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards 2026.

This year’s distinction is bolstered by the inclusion of three notable new additions to its decorated roster: Capella at Galaxy Macau, the newly-opened, penthouse-leaning all-suite hotel offering a new tier of cloistered luxury; Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa, the first international outpost for the celebrated Master Chef Masaaki Miyakawa, located at Raffles at Galaxy Macau; and Lai Heen, the renowned Cantonese fine-dining destination on the 51st floor of The Ritz-Carlton, Macau.

Officially opening its doors to the most discerning guests, Capella at Galaxy Macau has been recognised with a Forbes Five-Star Award upon the hotel’s official launch.
Officially opening its doors to the most discerning guests, Capella at Galaxy Macau has been recognised with a Forbes Five-Star Award upon the hotel’s official launch.
Two years into its operation, Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa, the first and only overseas outpost of Sushi Miyakawa in Hokkaido, has received its first Forbes Five-Star Award in 2026.
Two years into its operation, Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa, the first and only overseas outpost of Sushi Miyakawa in Hokkaido, has received its first Forbes Five-Star Award in 2026.
A sanctum of Cantonese fine-dining and the highest of its kind in Macau, Lai Heen – winner of Forbes Five-Star Award 2026 – showcases the pinnacle of exquisite dining.
A sanctum of Cantonese fine-dining and the highest of its kind in Macau, Lai Heen – winner of Forbes Five-Star Award 2026 – showcases the pinnacle of exquisite dining.

The 2026 Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Awards Roll Call:

Hotels

  • Capella at Galaxy Macau (Five-Star Award winner on official opening)
  • Raffles at Galaxy Macau (Five-Star Award winner for the second consecutive year)
  • Galaxy Hotel (Five-Star Award winner for the fourth consecutive year)
  • Banyan Tree Macau (Five-Star Award winner for the 13th consecutive year)
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Macau (Five-Star Award winner for the 10th consecutive year)
  • Hotel Okura Macau (Five-Star Award winner for the fifth consecutive year)

Spas

  • Banyan Tree Spa Macau (Five-Star Award winner for the 13th consecutive year)
  • The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Macau (Five-Star Award winner for the 10th consecutive year)

Restaurants

  • Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa (Inaugural Five-Star Award winner)
  • Lai Heen (Five-Star Award winner for six years)
  • Yamazato (Five-Star Award winner for the second consecutive year)
  • 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA (Five-Star Award winner for the fourth year in a row)
Winning Forbes a Five-Star Award for the fourth year at Galaxy Hotel.
Winning Forbes a Five-Star Award for the fourth year at Galaxy Hotel.

Raffles at Galaxy Macau boasts exceptionally refined and personalised services – a reason for its second-consecutive-year victory in Forbes Five-Star Awards.
Raffles at Galaxy Macau boasts exceptionally refined and personalised services – a reason for its second-consecutive-year victory in Forbes Five-Star Awards.
Years of providing luxury experiences at Galaxy Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau earns its 10th Forbes Five-Star Award this year.
Years of providing luxury experiences at Galaxy Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau earns its 10th Forbes Five-Star Award this year.

The independent global authority on luxury, Forbes Travel Guide evaluates and rates top-tier hotels, restaurants, and spas around the world, employing a professional review team that assesses properties across hundreds of exacting criteria and stringent standards, making Galaxy Macau’s record-breaking 12 Five-Star Awards all the more impressive.

Banyan Tree Macau is home to refined Thai luxury at Galaxy Macau for more than a decade.
Banyan Tree Macau is home to refined Thai luxury at Galaxy Macau for more than a decade.
Detail-oriented service is key to the success of Hotel Okura Macau, winner of Forbes Five-Star Award for the fifth year in a row at Galaxy Macau.
Detail-oriented service is key to the success of Hotel Okura Macau, winner of Forbes Five-Star Award for the fifth year in a row at Galaxy Macau.

“For our discerning guests, the experience is paramount,” remarked Mr Kevin Kelley, Chief Operating Officer – Macau at Galaxy Entertainment Group. These new accolades are a reflection of our team’s commitment to our ‘World-Class Asian Heart’ service philosophy. It’s about delivering sincere, detailed service that defines a new standard for luxury, not just in Macau but globally.”

Signature in its authentic fine Italian cuisine, 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA is proud to win a Five-Star Award for the fourth consecutive year.
Signature in its authentic fine Italian cuisine, 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA is proud to win a Five-Star Award for the fourth consecutive year.

The achievement not only highlights Galaxy Macau’s singular vision, but bolsters Macau’s standing as a premier global destination for tourism and gastronomy; a ‘World Centre for Tourism and Leisure’ and a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy.

Forbes Travel Guide, the independent authority in evaluating luxury, noted Galaxy Macau’s singular commitment. “The team at Galaxy Macau has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to elevating the guest experience,” notes Ms Amanda Frasier, President of Standards & Ratings at Forbes Travel Guide. “Their staff are as passionate as they are exacting, a quality that distinguishes them, year after year.”

Japanese fine-dining at Hotel Okura Macau, sees Yamazato attain its second consecutive Forbes Five-Star Award this year.
Japanese fine-dining at Hotel Okura Macau, sees Yamazato attain its second consecutive Forbes Five-Star Award this year.

Serene retreat best describes The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Macau – winner of Forbes Five-Star Award for the 10th consecutive year.
Serene retreat best describes The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Macau – winner of Forbes Five-Star Award for the 10th consecutive year.

Galaxy Macau continues its constant evolution to expand its visionary footprint, offering a plethora of service touchpoints throughout the luxury district, driven by a vision to create a world-class resort experience catering to today’s global guests in their pursuit of quality, variety and personalised service. Galaxy Macau’s stand out recognition by Forbes Travel Guide is testament to this visionary achievement.

Banyan Tree Spa Macau is Galaxy Macau’s tranquil sanctuary earning a Forbes Five-Star Award for the 13th consecutive year.
Banyan Tree Spa Macau is Galaxy Macau’s tranquil sanctuary earning a Forbes Five-Star Award for the 13th consecutive year.

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

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

About Galaxy Macau Integrated Resort

Galaxy Macau, The World-class Luxury Integrated Resort delivers the “Most Spectacular Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World”. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Nine award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott Hotel Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Broadway Hotel, Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Andaz Macau, and Capella at Galaxy Macau. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575-meters, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-meters high and 150-meters pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz- Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate.

As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies.

Embark on a delightful and rewarding journey at Galaxy Promenade, the one-stop shopping destination boasting some of the world’s most iconic luxury brands. Be the first to get the latest limited-edition items; explore fascinating pop-ups by coveted labels and revel in fabulous shopping rewards and privileges. Our VIPs are entitled to a highly-curated experience with dedicated personal shoppers at guests’ service, and be invited to exclusive luxury brand events. A different caliber of privileges and rewards also await. Discover the joys of fashion and stand at the forefront of style and sophistication—Galaxy Promenade has everything guests need to stay ahead of the style game.

Galaxy Cinemas takes immersive movie experiences to the next level with the latest audio-visual technology, ultra-luxurious facilities and bespoke services; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind cabaret lounge that evokes the glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with stylish entertainment and customizable surrounds; and Foot Hub, which presents the traditional art of reflexology for authentic relaxation and revitalization. For Authentic Macau Flavours and Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at Broadway Food Street. The 2,500-seat Broadway Theatre plays host to world-class entertainers and a diverse array of cultural events.

Meeting, incentive and banquet groups are also catered to with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and an expert service team. Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) is the latest addition to the Group’s ever-expanding integrated resort precinct and will usher in a new era for the MICE industry in Macau. GICC is a world-class event venue featuring 40,000-square-meters of total flexible MICE, and the 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.

For more details, please visit www.galaxymacau.com, and

Novel Anti-Fibrotic Drug AK3280 Cleared by FDA to Initiate Phase 2 Proof-of-Concept Clinical Trial in IPF

SHANGHAI, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Shanghai Ark Biopharmaceutical Co., Ltd. (“ArkBio”) today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cleared its Investigational New Drug (IND) application for AK3280, a novel anti-fibrotic therapy for the treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). This clearance enables ArkBio to initiate a Phase 2 proof-of-concept (PoC) clinical trial of AK3280 in the United States.

The Phase 2 study is a multi-center, randomized, partially double-blind, placebo- and active-controlled trial designed to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics of oral AK3280 in patients with IPF. Authorization to proceed with a U.S. Phase 2 study represents a significant milestone in the global clinical development of AK3280.

IPF is a progressive, irreversible, and ultimately fatal interstitial lung disease characterized by fibrotic remodeling of lung tissue that leads to respiratory failure. The median survival following diagnosis is approximately 2–5 years. Currently approved therapies, including pirfenidone, nintedanib, and nerandomilast, can slow disease progression; however, their clinical benefit remains limited and they are frequently associated with gastrointestinal adverse events such as diarrhea and nausea. These tolerability challenges contribute to poor long-term adherence in a substantial proportion of patients. There remains a significant unmet need for therapies that provide improved efficacy with enhanced safety and tolerability profiles.

AK3280 is an optimized, small-molecule, broad-spectrum anti-fibrotic agent. In a Phase 2 proof-of-concept study conducted in China, AK3280 demonstrated encouraging clinical activity, including a statistically significant, dose-dependent absolute increase from baseline in forced vital capacity (FVC) at Week 24. Improvements were also observed across additional lung function parameters, suggesting meaningful clinical benefit. Importantly, AK3280 exhibited a favorable safety and tolerability profile, with no apparent increase in the gastrointestinal adverse effects commonly associated with currently available IPF therapies.

FDA clearance of the IND marks a pivotal step in the global development of AK3280. The upcoming international Phase 2 PoC trial is expected to generate critical clinical data to support future regulatory submissions and potential commercialization in the United States and other major markets. ArkBio remains committed to advancing AK3280 globally and to delivering more effective and better-tolerated treatment options for patients living with IPF.

About ArkBio

ArkBio is a commercial-stage biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of innovative therapeutics for respiratory and pediatric diseases. Founded in 2014, the company has established proprietary technology platforms and a differentiated R&D pipeline through internal innovation and strategic collaborations.

Key pipeline assets include: Ziresovir (AK0529), the first direct-acting antiviral for RSV with positive pivotal Phase 3 results; AK3280, a potentially best-in-class anti-fibrotic agent with positive Phase 2 results in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis; AK0901, approved in China for the treatment of ADHD and currently commercialized.

ArkBio has established strategic partnerships with multinational pharmaceutical companies and leading academic institutions, including Roche, Genentech, The Scripps Research Institute, and the Institute of Microbiology of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, as well as domestic and international biotech companies and venture capital partners.

For more information, please visit: www.arkbiosciences.com
Investor Inquiries: IR@arkbiosciences.com

WuXi Vaccines Receives Brazil’s ANVISA GMP Certification

SUZHOU, China, Feb. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — WuXi Vaccines, a wholly-owned subsidiary of WuXi Biologics, dedicated to vaccine Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO), announced today that it has received Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certification for its fill and finish facility (DP17) in Suzhou from Brazil’s Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (ANVISA). The facility is providing integrated manufacturing services for Instituto Butantan’s dengue vaccine (Butantan-DV) production project.

Following comprehensive on-site inspections of DP17, a commercial fill and finish facility with both liquid and lyo capabilities, as well as QA, QC, warehouse and utilities, the GMP certification was granted. The Suzhou site previously passed the EU Qualified Person (QP) audit in 2024.

Jian Dong, CEO of WuXi Vaccines, commented, “We are very excited to achieve our first regulatory milestone at our Suzhou site. It not only validates the excellence of our world-class quality system, but also underscores our shared commitment with Instituto Butantan to enhancing access to high-quality dengue vaccines. Adhering to premier quality standards and providing end-to-end services with our integrated technologies, we remain committed to enabling greater vaccine accessibility and affordability for the global public health community.”

Based on the commercial manufacturing agreement with Instituto Butantan and Fundação Butantan, WuXi Vaccines will provide end-to-end services including drug substance and drug product manufacturing and quality control. The partnership will rapidly scale up vaccine capacity to help protect Brazil’s population from dengue, with a goal to deliver several millions of doses. In November 2025, the single-dose Butantan-DV received ANVISA approval for use with individuals aged 12 to 59.

About WuXi Vaccines

WuXi Vaccines, a wholly-owned subsidiary of WuXi Biologics, is a leading contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO) that focuses on vaccine and preventive antibody’s development and manufacturing. It provides world-class, integrated development and manufacturing platforms to expedite partners’ vaccines and preventive antibodies to the clinical stage and the market, regardless of the modality (i.e., recombinant protein, viral, viral vectored, VLP, OMV, nucleic acid, conjugated vaccines). With its technical expertise, broad regulatory knowledge, premium quality system, advanced CMC development capabilities, multiple production platforms (cell culture, viral, microbial, polysaccharide and protein conjugation), and extensive GMP manufacturing capacities, WuXi Vaccines provides an end-to-end service – from vaccine development to large-scale commercial production and distribution. The company can enable global clients to deliver critical vaccines and preventive antibodies anywhere in the world, making it an essential partner in protecting public health. For more information about WuXi Vaccines, please visit: https://wuxivaccines.com.

Contacts

Business
WuXiVaccines@wuxibiologics.com

Media
PR@wuxibiologics.com

Lottery Error Triggers Broader Debate Over Scam Cases and Banking Safeguards in Laos

The correct and wrong lottery number during the lottery mistake incident. (Photo by PaNoy Bouttavong)

A mistake during a national lottery broadcast has evolved into a broader public discussion about digital banking security and the handling of scam-related transactions in Laos.

On 7 February, Lao National Television acknowledged that it displayed the wrong six-digit number during the 6 February Lao Development Lottery draw. The correct winning number was 837430, not 387430 as initially shown.

The victim named PaNoy Bouttavong posted on her facebook showing that she brought the mistake lottery number and her complain. (Photo by PaNoy Bouttavong)

The broadcaster stated that the official result had been properly recorded and certified by the central lottery committee and issued a public apology for the on-screen error.

The situation intensified after a Facebook user, PaNoy Bouttavong, shared screenshots claiming she had received a lottery prize payment before it was reversed about 30 minutes later. According to her post, the lottery application showed she had won the six-digit prize and transferred funds into her account, but the amount was later withdrawn after the mistake was identified.

Her post quickly gained attention, with many questioning how such a large transfer could be reversed so rapidly.

Online Reaction Expands Beyond the Lottery

Toun Sengmone pointed out the situation linking it to scamming

The issue broadened beyond the lottery error when digital influencer Toun Sengmone, released a video that quickly received over 500,000 views. 

He transactions quickly in cases like the lottery mistake, while victims of online scams or mistaken transfers often struggle for weeks or months to recover lost funds.

Mitlisa Latxavong Lao sicussed the situation about the scam

Another social media user shared a video viewed more than 800,000 times, recounting how a friend allegedly lost savings and received limited assistance from the bank. 

She raised concerns about whether stronger consumer protection measures and transaction freeze mechanisms should be in place.

Bank Response and Rising Scam Reports

A BCEL announcement after the backlash from the lottery mistake problem. (Photo by BCEL)

Banque Pour Le Commerce Exterieur Lao Public (BCEL) later clarified that it acted under instructions from the lottery distributor after the broadcast error was confirmed. 

The bank said it serves as the payment service provider for the lottery agent and processes transactions according to agreed procedures. Its statement addressed only the lottery case and did not comment on broader scam-related issues.

Although authorities have corrected the lottery error, public questions remain about digital safeguards, transaction reversals, and protections for victims of online fraud. 

VinFast VF 8: The ‘Just In Case’ Electric SUV for Modern Families

Built for growing families and unpredictable schedules, the VinFast VF 8 combines spaciousness, towing capacity, advanced safety features, and long-term warranty coverage in an electric SUV that handles daily routines and unexpected detours alike.


DUBAI, UAE – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 February 2026 – In the Middle East, families rarely plan only for what is certain. A typical week can shift quickly from school runs and office commutes to last minute road trips, extended family visits, or a spontaneous decision to tow something sizeable across town.

Photo

The VinFast VF 8 is positioned as a “just in case” SUV, engineered to address these varied and dynamic demands.

Firstly, the VF 8’s 2,950 mm wheelbase provides ample rear legroom, not the kind that appears generous only in images. The cabin accommodates child seats, growing teenagers, or visiting relatives without compromise. When additional cargo space is needed, the 60:40 split folding rear seats allow the space to adapt quickly.

In terms of capability, the VF 8 can tow up to 1,800 kg when properly equipped. For families with boats, trailers, or desert camping equipment, that figure translates into practical reassurance that the man of the house will not have to decide which items stay behind. The vehicle demonstrates that electric powertrains do not inherently limit utility.

On open highways between cities, the VF 8 delivers composed and confident performance. Plus variant, equipped with all-wheel drive, produces up to 402 horsepower and provides smooth, immediate acceleration for overtaking. The Eco version offers up to 493 km of range under NEDC standards, sufficient for most daily routines and many intercity drives without constant planning around charging stops.

Comfort, particularly in the Middle Eastern climate, is essential. The VF 8’s dual zone automatic climate control system, with integrated air quality management, ensures that cooling is evenly distributed and adjustable to different preferences.

For safety, the VF 8 comes equipped with 11 airbags and a comprehensive Level 2 driver assistance suite that includes Adaptive Cruise Control and Lane Keeping Assist. These technologies support the driver during heavy traffic or long highway stretches, reducing fatigue and providing added reassurance for parents.

Ownership confidence is a significant advantage of the VF 8. VinFast addresses reliability concerns with a 10-year/200,000-km vehicle warranty and a 10-year unlimited kilometer battery warranty. The vehicle also includes 5 years or 100,000 km of free service, whichever comes first. For families considering their first electric vehicle, these commitments shift the conversation from hesitation to practicality.

The VinFast VF 8 does not attempt to reinvent family SUV expectations. Instead, it focuses on enhancing daily usability while remaining prepared for unexpected needs. It is a “Just In Case” vehicle, handling routines, road trips, and everything that arrives unannounced.

Hashtag: #VinFast #V8

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