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Laos Faces Severe Blood Shortage as Only Five Provinces Meet Donation Targets

Laos Faces Severe Blood Shortage as Only Five Provinces Meet Donation Targets (Photo: The Laotian Times)

Laos has long been grappling with a blood donation shortage. In 2024, several provincial branches of the Lao Red Cross failed to meet their collection targets. 

This shortfall has been attributed to factors such as the economic crisis, natural disasters, and misconceptions about blood donation.

Chanthala Souksakhone, head of the National Blood Transfusion Center under the Lao Red Cross, confirmed on 15 January that only five provinces—Vientiane Capital, Luang Prabang, Xayabouly, Sekong, and Attapeu—met their goals. 

The Lao Red Cross collected 71,297 bags of blood in 2024, falling short of the target of 78,000. In comparison, the organization exceeded its 2023 goal, collecting 73,023 bags.

“This year [2025], we have an even higher target to collect at least 80,400 blood bags. The goal will continue to rise each year. By 2030, we need to reach as high as 120,000 bags.”

Each donor can give only one bag of blood, containing between 350 and 450 milliliters. However, meeting daily demand remains a significant challenge. The Vientiane Capital headquarters alone requires 200 bags daily, while provincial branches must collect at least 300 bags each day.

“Currently, we’re only managing to collect 20-30 bags daily,” he noted.

The main challenge to reaching blood donation targets are a limited number of donors, economic instability, weather conditions, and misconceptions about blood donation. Chanthala explained that the target audience—teenagers aged 17 and older—is small, and many college students are not interested in donating. 

“I feel like our advertisement strategies aren’t very effective. The format and messaging fail to capture a wide audience— it’s not colorful enough. Not to mention, many people still have misconceptions and are afraid of donating blood,” he explained.

Many people still believe that blood donation is “unnecessary” and “outside their concern,” the official noted. 

In addition to the lack of target donors and misconceptions, weather conditions also hinder the operation. 

“Last year’s floods made it incredibly difficult for us to organize and carry out blood donation drives,” Chanthala said, noting that limited vehicles and a shortage of health experts have further hindered efforts. 

“We not only lack enough staff, but we also face a shortage of resources to carry out the operations,” he added. “We cannot proceed without being fully prepared, as it’s crucial to ensure the safety of both the blood donors and the blood they donate.”

Looking ahead, the Lao Red Cross plans to increase awareness through social media, provide accurate information, and develop more effective campaigns to engage potential donors, particularly teenagers.

“The organization will leverage social media to share accurate information about blood donations, run advertisements, and develop strategies to engage target donors, especially teenagers over the age of 17,” Chanthala said.

To address the staffing shortage, the Lao Red Cross will revamp its reward system to motivate employees and boost morale. The organization is also focused on increasing recruitment efforts to ensure operations run smoothly.

This isn’t the first time the Lao Red Cross has made a call for assistance. 

On 10 January, local media reported that the organization issued an urgent appeal for blood donors, stating that hospitals across the country are facing a critical shortage and having to delay essential surgeries. The rise in road accident victims has further intensified the demand for blood.

Over the past five years, the National Blood Transfusion Centre has collected a total of 251,564 bags of blood, surpassing the target of 249,700 bags for that period. 

Create Cherished Memories with Your Loved Ones at The Westin Resort & Spa Ubud, Bali

BALI, Indonesia, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Escape to The Westin Resort & Spa Ubud, where every moment is designed for an unforgettable experience. Blending rich Balinese culture, sustainable initiatives, and family-friendly activities, the resort is the perfect destination for a meaningful and rejuvenating getaway.

Experience tranquility at Yoga Pavilion at The Westin Resort & Spa Ubud Bali, the perfect place for a wellness journey with your loved ones, surrounded by the serene beauty of Ubud’s jungle.
Experience tranquility at Yoga Pavilion at The Westin Resort & Spa Ubud Bali, the perfect place for a wellness journey with your loved ones, surrounded by the serene beauty of Ubud’s jungle.

The Westin Resort & Spa Ubud embraces Balinese traditions through thoughtfully curated experiences. Guests are welcomed with the sacred Welcome Blessing, where holy water is collected, blessed, and ceremonially used to offer a spiritual start to their stay. Additional cultural highlights include a Canang Sari-making class, where guests learn the art of traditional Balinese offerings, and Sandikala rituals, which celebrate twilight as Balinese light torches around the resort to mark the evening’s arrival.

Families and eco-conscious travelers can explore the resort’s Hydro Haven hydroponic garden and discover sustainable farming practices. The Trigona bee hive, home to stingless bees, further highlights The Westin Ubud’s commitment to sustainability. Guests can observe these vital pollinators in action, sample fresh honey, and even adopt a bee to support local bee farming. The honey is also used in wellness treatments like Turmeric Honey Jamu and Honey Scrub, offering a holistic experience.

Parents can unwind at the signature Heavenly Spa by Westin™, while children engage in creative and educational activities at the Westin Family Kids Club. Families can take part in interactive Balinese workshops or enjoy family yoga sessions amidst the resort’s serene surroundings. The expansive pool area provides a refreshing retreat for both kids and adults.

Beyond the resort, Ubud offers an array of attractions, including Ubud Monkey Forest, Ubud Royal Palace, Tegalalang Rice Terraces, Bali Zoo, and Bali Safari Marine Park. Guests can also bond over Balinese cooking classes, making their stay truly immersive.

Enjoy an exclusive family promotion where two children under 12 stay for FREE, with a complimentary extra bed and one-way airport transfer for a minimum four-night stay.

Discover the serenity of Ubud, where Balinese traditions meet modern premium, and every family member finds their perfect sanctuary.

For additional information and reservations, please visit westinubud.com or contact the reservations team at resv.dpswr@westin.com.

Follow The Westin Resort & Spa, Ubud social media to find the latest information and promotions: Instagram and Facebook.

Media Contact: 
Nadya Chendana
Marketing Manager The Westin Resort & Spa Bali,Ubud
Nadya.chendana@westin.com

Galaxy Macau Celebrates 34 Awards, Continuing Its Ongoing Legacy of Luxury in Tourism and Leisure


MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 January 2025 – As the world step into 2025, Galaxy Macau™, the world-class luxury integrated resort (hereafter referred to as “Galaxy Macau”), has proudly announced that hotels, restaurants, bars, and spas within Galaxy Macau and StarWorld Hotel have received a total of 34 prestigious awards in the past three months, reflecting their excellence in both Chinese and international rankings. This achievement showcases the extraordinary allure of Asia’s leading integrated resort destination and further reinforces Macau’s status as a “World Center for Tourism and Leisure.”

The luxurious Capella at Galaxy Macau, set to open this year, was selected as the "Most Anticipated Hotel Opening of 2025 Award" by HotelShare The 10th InJoy Hotel & Travel Charts Award.
The luxurious Capella at Galaxy Macau, set to open this year, was selected as the “Most Anticipated Hotel Opening of 2025 Award” by HotelShare The 10th InJoy Hotel & Travel Charts Award.

Kevin Kelley, Chief Operating Officer, Macau of Galaxy Entertainment Group, stated, “We are truly honored that Galaxy Macau and StarWorld Hotel have garnered such esteemed recognition. These awards are a testament to our team’s commitment to exceptional facilities, professional service, and luxurious experiences. I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to all team members for their commitment, and passion. As we begin 2025, we will continue to pursue excellence with our ‘Asian Heart’ service philosophy, delivering unparalleled luxury experiences to global travelers.”

Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa is featured in the Macau’s Best 25 Restaurants list of Travel + Leisure Tastemakers 2024 list.
Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa is featured in the Macau’s Best 25 Restaurants list of Travel + Leisure Tastemakers 2024 list.

The Raffles brand's first speakeasy Long Bar at Galaxy Macau is featured in the Macau’s Best 10 Bars list of Travel + Leisure Tastemakers 2024 list.
The Raffles brand’s first speakeasy Long Bar at Galaxy Macau is featured in the Macau’s Best 10 Bars list of Travel + Leisure Tastemakers 2024 list.

Feng Wei Ju (left) and 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA each received four honors.
Feng Wei Ju (left) and 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA each received four honors.

Attached is the list of award winners:

<2024 FAB Gold List> (Asia)

  • Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel™, The Ritz-Carlton Macau, and Raffles at Galaxy Macau – FAB Gold 100 Hotels
  • 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA, Feng Wei Ju, and Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa – FAB Gold Restaurants
  • Banyan Tree Spa Macau – FAB Gold Service & FAB Gold Spa
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Macau – FAB Gold Service, FAB Gold Spa, FAB Gold Club Lounge, FAB Gold Bar, and FAB Gold Service
  • Raffles at Galaxy Macau – FAB Gold Service

(Asia)

  • 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA, Feng Wei Ju, Lai Heen, Saffron, and Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa – Best 25 Restaurants in Macau
  • Long Bar, The Macallan Whisky Bar & Lounge, and The Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge – Best 10 Bars in Macau

(China)

  • Andaz Macau – China’s Top 100 Hotels
  • Raffles at Galaxy Macau – China’s Top 100 Hotels

(China)

  • Andaz Macau – Artistic Design Hotel of the Year Award
  • Raffles at Galaxy Macau – Jury Prize of the Year Award
  • Capella at Galaxy Macau – The Most Anticipated Hotel Opening of 2025 Award

<2025 Black Pearl Restaurant Guide > (China)

  • Feng Wei Ju – One-Diamond
  • 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA – One-Diamond

(China)

  • 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA – 2 Stars Restaurant
  • Feng Wei Ju – 1 Star Restaurant
  • Lai Heen – 1 Star Restaurant

<2024 China Feast Restaurant Awards> (China)

  • Teppanyaki Shou – Best New Restaurant
  • Galaxy Macau Tam Chai Yu Chun – Annual Influential Restaurant
Galaxy Macau

Galaxy Macau continues to shine, highlighting its remarkable achievements in the integrated tourism and leisure sector. This aligns seamlessly with the Macao SAR government’s “Tourism+” policy, offering visitors from around the globe an unforgettable one-stop vacation experience and setting a new standard for luxury travel.

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. Eight 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 and Andaz 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; Galaxy Promenade is the hottest shopping destination featuring the latest in fashion and curated experiences in Macau. Spanning over 100,000-square-meter, luxury flagship stores, lifestyle boutiques and our selection of labels are among the more than 200 world-renowned brands for a world-class shopping journey; Galaxy Cinemas, immersive thrills and luxurious comfort go hand in hand at Galaxy Cinemas. All 10 theaters are equipped with the latest audio-visual technology; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind deluxe lounge that evokes the glitz and glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with entertainment in luxury and style; and Foot Hub presents the traditional art of reflexology to make you feel more relaxed and revitalized. For Authentic Macau Flavours & Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at its 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 well looked after with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and a professional service staff.

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-meter of total flexible MICE, and a 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.

For more details, please visit , and .

OPPO Find X8 and Find X8 Pro Achieve DXOMARK Gold Battery Label, Setting New Standards for Battery Life


SHENZHEN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 January 2025 – OPPO Find X8 and Find X8 Pro have both earned DXOMARK’s Gold Battery Label 2025, recognising their class-leading battery performance in autonomy, charging, and efficiency.

OPPO Find X8 and Find X8 Pro Achieve DXOMARK Gold Battery Label, Setting New Standards for Battery Life


In autonomy tests, which measure a device’s battery life by conducting a series of real-life and lab tests, Find X8 Pro and Find X8 ranked first and second respectively in DXOMARK’s Ultra-Premium category, showcasing Find X8 Series’ industry-leading battery performance.

Find X8 Series: A World of Possibilities in a Single Charge

DXOMARK found Find X8 Pro demonstrates outstanding autonomy performance, with both phones receiving strong results across each testing subscore: Home/office, On the go, and Calibrated.

Home/office represents the environments smartphone users typically spend most of their time. On the go testing sees DXOMARK Battery experts take the phone outdoors and perform a precisely defined set of activities, including walking, and taking the bus and subway while performing typical tasks such as streaming music, capturing photos, and recording videos. Calibrated testing involves a set of automated tasks, including making calls, playing music and video, and gaming in a controlled environment and on a fixed set of parameters.

Both the OPPO Find X8 and Find X8 Pro demonstrated excellent autonomy across all tested scenarios, consistently lasting more than 3 days under moderate use. This performance reflects the rigorous testing protocol, which simulates everyday usage, alternating between static environments, such as at home or in the office, and dynamic settings, like commuting or performing outdoor activities.

A phone’s overall autonomy score reflects how long the phone’s charge lasts, with Find X8 Pro’s high-capacity 5910mAh battery laying a strong foundation for excellent single-charge performance. Excelling at extended video playback, gaming, and streaming, tasks that typically result in battery anxiety, Find X8 Pro is perfect for those who demand more from their smartphone.

Find X8 also achieved DXOMARK’s Gold Battery Label 2025, demonstrating impressive battery performance in all testing categories. Its high-capacity 5630 mAh cell is particularly impressive considering how thin and light it is, besting the compact flagship competition in battery capacity and performance.

With breakthrough silicon-carbon battery technology and cutting-edge MediaTek Dimensity 9400 power, Find X8 Series combines maximum efficiency and minimal heat generation with an exquisitely slim, elegant design.

In addition to delivering long-lasting flagship power, Find X8 Series offers versatile fast charging solutions. Both phones feature OPPO SUPERVOOCTM 80W wired charging and AIRVOOCTM 50W wireless charging, ensuring minimal downtime and maximum convenience for users, verified by DXOMARK tests.

Perfectly designed to meet the needs of today’s users, whether they need a thin and light all-rounder with flagship power, or a world-class, powerhouse camera phone, Find X8 and Find X8 Pro unlock hours of entertainment, connectedness and productivity free from battery anxiety.

Discover how OPPO Find X8 Series is redefining smartphone battery performance at oppo.com, and learn more about DXOMARK’s rigorous testing standards and Find X8 Series’ battery results at dxomark.com.

Hashtag: #OPPO

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

About OPPO

OPPO is a leading global smart device brand. Since the launch of its first mobile phone – “Smiley Face” – in 2008, OPPO has been in relentless pursuit of the perfect synergy of aesthetic satisfaction and innovative technology. Today, OPPO provides a wide range of smart devices spearheaded by the Find and Reno series. Beyond devices, OPPO also provides its users with ColorOS operating system and internet services. OPPO has footprints in more than 70 countries and regions, with more than 40,000 employees dedicated to creating a better life for customers around the world.

ATFX Connect Partners as Diamond Sponsor at iFX Expo Dubai 2025

DUBAI, UAE, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The iFX Expo Dubai 2025, held at the Dubai World Trade Centre from January 14 to 16, served as a vibrant hub for brokers, technology providers, and financial professionals to exchange ideas and explore advancements in forex trading, fintech, and liquidity solutions. As the Diamond Sponsor, ATFX Connect fostered meaningful connections, led insightful discussions, and showcased its tailored institutional trading solutions.

ATFX Connect’s contributions were further recognized with the prestigious Best Institutional Broker MEA, a testament to its continued dedication to innovation, client success, and excellence in financial services. Through its sponsorship and active participation, ATFX Connect reinforced its position as a trusted partner for businesses navigating the evolving trading landscape.

The iFX Expo Dubai 2025 featured a dynamic agenda, with discussions centered on the future of forex trading, fintech innovations, and liquidity provision. ATFX Connect’s sponsorship created opportunities for attendees to engage with industry leaders, explore cutting-edge technologies, and enhance their trading strategies. The event proved to be a must-attend gathering for traders, brokers, and fintech professionals seeking to stay ahead in the financial services sector.

ATFX Connect was represented by a distinguished lineup of speakers, including Siju Daniel, Chief Commercial Officer of ATFX, Wei Qiang Zhang, Managing Director of ATFX Connect, and Hormoz Faryar, Managing Director of ATFX Connect MENA.

ATFX Connect is proud of the valuable connections made and the knowledge shared during the event. We look forward to continuing our commitment to providing tailored solutions and world-class services to help empower businesses in the trading industry.

ATFX Connect

Back in 2019, ATFX stepped into the Institutional arena with the launch of its Multi-Access platform ATFX Connect. The management’s vision was to expand the broker’s global presence and continue to provide award-winning liquidity and customer service to clients within the Institutional community. With the focus on the professional Investor, the ATFX Connect platform is designed to provide an efficient automated trading venue that delivers tailored liquidity solutions to Hedge Funds, Asset Managers, Brokers, Private Banks, and other financial institutions. (ATFX Connect Website: https://www.atfxconnect.com)

Baidu to Report Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2024 Financial Results on February 18, 2025

BEIJING, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Baidu, Inc. (Nasdaq: BIDU; HKEX: 9888 (HKD Counter) and 89888 (RMB Counter)) (“Baidu” or the “Company”), a leading AI company with strong Internet foundation, today announced that it will report its financial results for the Fourth Quarter and Fiscal Year 2024 ended December 31, 2024, before the U.S. market opens on February 18, 2025. Baidu’s management will hold an earnings conference call at 7:30 AM on February 18, 2025, U.S. Eastern Time (8:30 PM on February 18, 2025, Beijing Time).

Please register in advance of the conference call using the link provided below. It will automatically direct you to the registration page of “Baidu Inc. Q4 2024 Earnings Conference Call”. Please follow the steps to enter your registration details, then click “Register”. Upon registering, you will then be provided with the dial-in number, the passcode, and your unique access PIN. This information will also be emailed to you as a calendar invite.

For pre-registration, please click:
https://s1.c-conf.com/diamondpass/10044727-f3pyuq.html

In the 10 minutes prior to the call start time, you may use the conference access information (including dial-in number(s), the passcode and unique access PIN) provided in the calendar invite that you have received following your pre-registration.

Additionally, a live and archived webcast of this conference call will be available at https://ir.baidu.com.

A replay of the conference call may be accessed by phone at the following number until February 25, 2025:
US: 1 855 883 1031
Reply PIN: 10044727

About Baidu
Founded in 2000, Baidu’s mission is to make the complicated world simpler through technology. Baidu is a leading AI company with strong Internet foundation, trading on Nasdaq under “BIDU” and the HKEX under “9888.” One Baidu ADS represents eight Class A ordinary shares.

MINISO Group Announces Results of Extraordinary General Meeting

GUANGZHOU, China, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — MINISO Group Holding Limited (NYSE: MNSO; HKEX: 9896) (“MINISO”, “MINISO Group” or the “Company”), a global value retailer offering a variety of trendy lifestyle products featuring IP design, today announced that the previously announced extraordinary general meeting of the Company’s shareholders (the “EGM”) to seek shareholder approval for the proposed acquisition of shares of Yonghui Superstores Co., Ltd was held in Hong Kong today. All the proposed resolutions submitted for shareholder approval set out in the EGM notice were duly adopted by the shareholders of the Company at the EGM.

Following the EGM, the Company expects to complete the proposed acquisition after the satisfaction or waiver of the other closing conditions in accordance with the relevant share purchase agreements.

About MINISO Group

MINISO Group is a global value retailer offering a variety of trendy lifestyle products featuring IP design. The Company serves consumers primarily through its large network of MINISO stores, and promotes a relaxing, treasure-hunting and engaging shopping experience full of delightful surprises that appeals to all demographics. Aesthetically pleasing design, quality and affordability are at the core of every product in MINISO’s wide product portfolio, and the Company continually and frequently rolls out products with these qualities. Since the opening of its first store in China in 2013, the Company has built its flagship brand “MINISO” as a globally recognized consuming brand and established a massive store network worldwide. For more information, please visit https://ir.miniso.com/.

Investor Relations Contact:

MINISO Group Holding Limited
Email: ir@miniso.com
Phone: +86 (20) 36228788 Ext.8039

Growth in Cambridge exams in Indonesia highlights rising demand for international education

November 2024 Cambridge IGCSE results released worldwide today – global entries up by 10%   
Indonesia sees 26% increase in candidates for the Cambridge November 2024 exam series 

JAKARTA, Indonesia, Jan. 17, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Students celebrated recently as Cambridge International Education (Cambridge) released the results of its November 2024 Cambridge IGCSE and O Level exam series to more than 111,000 students worldwide. Global entries for Cambridge IGCSE increased by 10%, resulting in the largest ever November exam series for the qualification.

SIS Semarang school, Indonesia
SIS Semarang school, Indonesia

Cambridge International AS & A Level results from the November 2024 series were released on 9 January to more than 92,000 students worldwide. Entries for Cambridge International AS & A Level grew by 7% on November 2023.

In Indonesia, overall entries for Cambridge International AS & A Level, IGCSE and O Level qualifications grew by 22% on November 2023 – with a 26% increase in candidates. The growth highlights the increasing demand from parents for international education that aligns with their local needs and aspirations. More students globally took Cambridge exams in 2024 than in any previous year.  

The November exam series is most popular with schools in or near the Southern Hemisphere, with 475,075 exam entries in total from 4061 schools in 137 countries. Mathematics remains the most popular subject, with an increase of 19% in entries at Cambridge International AS & A Level on November 2023. The data also show that globally more students are choosing subjects which increase their employability skills:

  • At Cambridge IGCSE, entries for Computer Science increased by 20%; Accounting by 13% and Business Studies by 10%.
  • Entries for Cambridge IGCSE Global Perspectives, which focuses on development of skills to help students be ready for the world, rose by 18%.

Rod Smith, Group Managing Director for International Education at Cambridge said: Cambridge is focused on making an international education as widely available as possible to help students make the most of exciting global opportunities and be resilient in the face of change. I’d like to congratulate everyone who has gained Cambridge qualifications in our November series and thank all the teachers who have supported them. Now they are ready for their next steps in the world, and I wish them every success.

Cambridge has over 160 years’ experience in delivering international exams and provides education to nearly one million students every year.