HANOI, Vietnam, Aug. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sun PhuQuoc Airways (SPA), Vietnam’s first airline dedicated to the “resort-in-the-sky” travel model, has selected Amadeus and its industry-leading solutions – Altéa Passenger Service System (PSS), Amadeus Sky suite and Amadeus Revenue Accounting to support the airline’s full-service operations and customer experience ahead of its official launch.
Javier Laforgue, EVP, Travel Unit and MD, Asia Pacific, Amadeus and Nguyen Manh Quan, CEO of Sun PhuQuoc Airways shake hands in Hanoi.
Developed by Sun Group – one of Vietnam’s leading tourism operators – Sun PhuQuoc Airways aims to become a game-changer in Asia’s aviation landscape, offering direct connectivity between Phu Quoc and major cities in Vietnam and abroad.
Through this partnership, Sun PhuQuoc Airways will leverage the Amadeus Altéa PSS, an airline solution used by many of the world’s leading full-service carriers to power booking, ticketing, inventory, departure control, and customer management. The system will allow the airline to deliver a seamless, efficient and data-driven experience across all its touchpoints.
Sun PhuQuoc Airways is also implementing Amadeus SkyWORKS, an intelligent schedule editor that manages an overall flight schedule creation process. SkyWORKS provides numerous views to evaluate different business scenarios, allowing Sun PhuQuoc Airways to create streamlined flight schedules in a flexible way.
Finally, Sun PhuQuoc will also adopt Amadeus Revenue Accounting, a solution that helps the airline to track passengers’ sales revenue in real time and reconcile data to optimize accounting processes.
“The vision of Sun PhuQuoc Airways is to create a resort-in-the-sky flight experience, where every customer’s journey is personalized and seamlessly connected to Sun Group’s world-class service ecosystem. Choosing Amadeus — a technology platform trusted by the world’s leading airlines — is a strategic move that enables us not only to deliver outstanding service, but also to reach a global distribution network and bring international travelers closer to the beauty of Phu Quoc and Vietnam,” comments Mr. Nguyen Manh Quan, CEO of Sun PhuQuoc Airways.
“We are proud to be a trusted partner of Sun PhuQuoc Airways as it launches this exciting new business. By providing data-driven insights and a modular design approach, we aim to support the airline’s ambitions in delivering high-quality service from day one and to successfully expand its reach into a successful future in the travel space” says Javier Laforgue, Executive Vice President, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Amadeus.
Sun PhuQuoc Airways is currently developing a hub-and-spoke network, with Phu Quoc as the central hub, directly connecting major cities domestically and internationally. SPA was established as Phu Quoc Island gears up to host the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Forum in 2027 – a major international event that will welcome thousands of delegates from 21 APEC member countries.
The partnership between Sun PhuQuoc Airways and Amadeus is announced at a time when not only is Phu Quoc emerging as a premier international resort destination, but the aviation and tourism sectors across Asia are also experiencing remarkable growth.
As a new regional travel hub connecting Asian and international travelers to the lush tropical destination known as “Pearl Island“, the future of Sun PhuQuoc Airways looks bright.
Notes to the editors:
About Amadeus
Amadeus makes the experience of travel better for everyone, everywhere by inspiring innovation, partnerships and responsibility to people, places and planet.
Our technology powers the travel and tourism industry. Inspiring more open ways of working. More connected ways of thinking, centered around the traveler. Our open platform connects the global travel and hospitality ecosystem. From startups to big industry players and governments too. Together, redesigning the travel of tomorrow.
We are working to make travel a force for social and environmental good. A collective responsibility to protect and improve the people and places we visit, ensuring travel continues to make positive contribution to our world.
We apply innovation to meet new needs, to solve real challenges. Our truly diverse global workforce, made up of 150 nationalities, is passionate about travel and technology.
We are an IBEX 35 company, listed on the Spanish Stock Exchange under AMS.MC. We have also been recognized by the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for the last 13 years.
Amadeus. It’s how travel works better.
Learn more about Amadeus at www.amadeus.com, and follow us on:
About Sun PhuQuoc Airways
Sun PhuQuoc Airways is a full-service airline developed by Sun Group, one of Vietnam’s leading private corporations known for its world-class ecosystem of tourism, leisure, real estate, and infrastructure. The airline is slated to begin commercial operations in late 2025, with Phu Quoc as its central hub. Aiming to “resort in the sky” model, Sun PhuQuoc Airways is positioned to offer travelers a seamless journey that begins onboard and continues throughout their stay across Sun Group’s ecosystem.
The participants in the Deployment of the World Mosquito Program (WMP) Wolbachia method to reduce dengue incidence event. (Photo: supplied)
On 9 August, Laos officially launched the deployment of the World Mosquito Program (WMP) Wolbachia method, releasing over 130 million Wolbachia-infected mosquitoes to reduce the incidence of dengue fever.
KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Aug. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Narwal, the international leader in smart home cleaning, is proud to announce its latest innovative home cleaning device, the Narwal S20. The new all-in-one, cordless vacuum mop cleaner is set to redefine hard floor cleaning with a zero-tangle brush, lightweight structural design, and 10-step full-chain self-cleaning. Its advanced features, including innovative AI-powered DirtSense™, 18,000 Pa suction power, and Dual-Edge 0.04 in cleaning ensure robust dirt removal in just one pass.
Narwal Launches the S20 to Revolutionize Smart Home Technology With All-in-One Cordless Vacuum Mop Cleaner
“The home cleaning market is shifting where efficiency and intelligence are now consumer non-negotiables,” said Junbin Zhang, CEO of Narwal. “Busy lifestyles should not mean compromising a home’s pristine interior. Narwal’s latest model, the S20, leverages all the automated and intuitive features we’ve perfected and upgraded. We’re introducing a product that not only meets but exceeds the expectations of today’s fast-paced lifestyles. With various key innovations driving the new product, including automated cleaning adjustments and self-cleaning technology, we’re proud to offer a solution for those who demand smarter, quicker, and more effective results in their home cleaning.”
The Narwal S20 is engineered to redefine the home cleaning experience, merging powerful performance with user-friendly functionality, streamlining everyday chores through an intelligent and efficient all-in-one cleaning system.
Vacuum and Mop in a Single Sweep
At the heart of the S20 is a dual-function system that vacuums and mops simultaneously. With an impressive 18,000 Pa suction power and dual-edge cleaning technology, it ensures edge-to-edge cleanliness in just one pass. Whether it’s tough dirt, debris, or sudden spills, the S20 handles messes with speed and precision. Its self-cleaning design minimizes maintenance, allowing users to focus less on chores and more on living.
Advanced Self-Cleaning and Drying System
To ensure the device is always ready for action, the S20 features Narwal’s innovative self-cleaning system, which includes reverse and roller brushes that clean themselves after every use. Enhanced with high-temperature contact iron drying, the upgraded 10-step self-cleaning cycle ensures that brushes remain completely dry, eliminating the risk of odors or mold—an essential feature, especially in humid climates.
Lightweight Structural Design
The S20 features the innovative Narwal-Air Tech 1.0 system, designed with a low center of gravity structure that keeps the handheld weight at just 800g. Equipped with a hidden floating chassis and dual rear wheels, it provides full directional support, making the cleaning process significantly more effortless.
Effortless Maneuverability
The S20’s 180° flat-lay design and self-propelling mechanism allow users to easily clean around furniture, into tight corners, and under low spaces. Whether it’s navigating a cluttered living room or reaching under the bed, the S20 takes the hard work out of cleaning, offering smooth navigation and custom fit to any user’s home layout.
Tangle-Free Performance
Equipped with a zero-tangle brush, the S20 ensures hassle-free cleaning by preventing hair from wrapping around the brush, making maintenance quick and easy. Its extended 55-minute runtime provides long-lasting cleaning sessions to keep your home pristine. Despite its powerful performance, the S20 operates quietly, minimizing disruption to your household activities, whether day or night.
AI DirtSense™ Technology
The S20’s AI DirtSense™ Technology intuitively adjusts cleaning intensity based on the amount of dirt detected. The system tackles all challenging areas, from light dust to tougher messes. The intelligent detection equips one of five cleaning modes, and interactive LCD & voice prompts drive the device to its performance and ensure every area gets the right level of attention. This intelligent feature means less guesswork, allowing for more efficient cleaning without having to adjust settings manually. It’s cleaning that adapts to your home’s needs with minimal effort required.
Pricing and Availability
The Narwal S20 is now available for purchase, retailing for RM1,499 on Lazada, Shopee, and TikTok Shop, as well as Aihome outlets at Sunway Velocity, Plaza Low Yat, and IOI City Mall.
Narwal is known for using its cutting-edge technology to realize its objective of bringing flawless floors to users. As a global top 5 vacuum brand, we now sell in over 30 countries, and proudly serve over 1.8 million families worldwide. Our reach extends across North America, South Korea, Germany, Australia, Southeast Asia, and various other regions. Narwal has raised substantial funds from investors including Sequoia Capital, Hillhouse Capital, ByteDance (parent of TikTok), and Tencent, among others. With over 700 researchers and scientists from across the globe, Narwal has made numerous breakthroughs in multiple fields and won prestigious international awards, including the CES Innovation Awards, German Innovation Award, Reddot Design Award, and the Edison Gold Award, which honors innovation, and Time Magazine’s Best Inventions.
SINGAPORE, Aug. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Pollo AI, the leading all-in-one AI video and image creation platform, recently launched its new revolutionary AI avatar generator, and it completely transforms how realistic AI talking avatars can be created from scratch.
Users can now convert any image into a custom, lifelike AI speaking avatar in minutes, eliminating the need for pre-training or pre-recorded footage.
According to Pollo AI’s team leader, Janet Smith, “Before Pollo AI, making an AI avatar meant dealing with the hassle of recording and uploading significant video data just for training. It was both complicated and time-intensive. Now, the need for pre-recorded videos or pre-training data is a thing of the past. We’re now in a new era of instant, effortless avatar creation.”
With Pollo AI’s cutting-edge model, users can create personalized AI avatar videos with near-perfect lip synchronization, emotionally expressive facial expressions, and lifelike hand gestures.
Pollo AI takes things one step further by allowing users to produce up to 2-minute videos. And this far exceeds what most other AI avatar tools can do.
Janet Smith stated, “We wanted to ensure that our AI avatars could act, speak, and engage just as naturally and believably as any real human does. However, we didn’t just stop there. Beyond improving visual realism, we pushed beyond the typical 10-30 second mark to give users more room in creating longer and more engaging content that better connects with audiences.”
Because of this, the platform can create unique AI avatar videos for almost any purpose. For instance, users can generate trendy AI baby podcast videos, educational training materials, cute pet avatar videos that talk, singing avatar videos, etc. This level of versatility can also be extended to other areas like ads, content marketing, product promotion, and more.
“Users can customize speech and avatar performance to share their unique message,” Smith said. “These personalization options help brands and creators produce engaging content.”
Pollo AI offers a library of realistic pre-made avatars and a range of voiceover options. Users can upload their own audio or use Pollo AI’s natural-sounding voices.
This opens the door to faster and cheaper video production for global users, highlighting why the use of expensive video equipment and actors is not as essential.
“Just upload your image, input your script/audio, and in no time at all, you can start sharing realistic and relatable AI avatar videos that will better maximize your ROI.”, Janet Smith concluded.
SYDNEY, Aug. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Automic Group, Australia’s market leader in technology-driven investor administration and services, has announced the appointment of Giri Tenneti as its new Head of Strategic Clients to deepen client relationships and support growth amongst ASX200 companies.
Tenneti joins from the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX), where she led Listed Company Services, bringing a deep understanding of the listed company landscape to Automic’s leadership team. At the ASX, Giri held several key positions, including in settlements, listings compliance, and serving as Company Secretary for the ASX itself. Her contributions have been pivotal in major initiatives, including the development of the ASX Corporate Governance Principles and Recommendations, strategic technology projects, and educational programmes for the broader market community.
In her new role, Tenneti will be responsible for nurturing and expanding relationships with Automic’s key clients, helping them leverage the company’s single platform for registry services, employee share plans, and board management.
“I am thrilled to welcome Giri to the Automic team,” said David Raper, CEO of Automic Group. “Having worked with Giri previously at the ASX, I know firsthand the calibre of her expertise and her dedication to the market. Her experience gives her unparalleled insight into the challenges and opportunities our clients face, and her leadership will be invaluable as we continue to support our clients’ growth.” Tenneti’s appointment comes as Automic continues its rapid growth, solidifying its number one position for listed companies, IPOs and listed company transitions in the past financial year.
“I have admired Automic’s innovative technology and client-centric approach for many years, so I am excited to join the team,” said Tenneti. “The future of investor administration lies in automation and integration to deliver a safer, more seamless experience. My first priority is to connect with our clients to understand how we can help them thrive. Automic is perfectly positioned to lead this evolution, and I look forward to demonstrating how our mature platform and exceptional service can support even the largest and most complex registers.”
About Automic Group
Automic Group is Australia’s market leader in technology-driven investor administration. Combining proprietary cloud-native technology with expert service, Automic simplifies registry services, employee share plans, fund administration, professional services, and board management for over 1,100 ASX-listed and unlisted organisations. Founded to challenge an industry reliant on outdated systems, Automic is committed to delivering smarter, more efficient, and secure solutions that help Australian corporates and funds.
This new leadership programme empowers senior professionals to apply strengths science for team growth and business success.
SINGAPORE, Aug. 11, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Strengths School™, Singapore’s trusted provider of strengths-based training, has launched a new executive coaching track designed specifically for senior leaders and decision-makers across Asia. This strategic addition builds on the organisation’s decade-long expertise in strengths psychology and delivers tailored, real-world leadership support for MNCs, government agencies, and large local enterprises.
Developed by former corporate leaders, the new executive coaching programme integrates time-tested coaching frameworks with Gallup-certified strengths methodologies to address key leadership challenges—ranging from managing diverse, high-performing teams to aligning talent strategy with evolving business goals.
“This programme is about empowering leaders to lead from their strengths, while bringing out the best in others,” said Brian Liu, Principal Coach. “We’re moving beyond training into transformation—one leadership team at a time.”
Strengths School™’s executive coaching track is highly customised, blending diagnostics, one-on-one coaching, and team-based strategy sessions. The programme is ideal for HR business partners, C-suite leaders, and department heads looking to deepen team engagement, improve performance outcomes, and future-proof their leadership.
With this launch, Strengths School™ positions itself as a full-spectrum partner for leadership development—offering both foundational workshops and now, high-touch executive coaching designed to drive meaningful organisational change.
Strengths School™ is a leading strengths-based corporate training and coaching provider headquartered in Singapore. Trusted by over 1,000 teams across Asia, the company delivers highly practical and science-backed programmes designed by former corporate leaders. Its mission is to unlock human potential through real-world application—empowering HR professionals, team leads, and senior executives to drive meaningful change within their organisations. Learn more at https://www.strengthsschool.com/.
11 new signings across high-demand travel markets in Asia and the Middle East bring portfolio to about 50 properties in sought-after resort destinations globally
New additions span multiple brands across Phuket (Thailand); Bali and Labuan Bajo (Indonesia); Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Cam Ranh and Sam Son (Vietnam); Gangneung (South Korea); and Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah (UAE)
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 August 2025 –The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the wholly owned lodging business unit of CapitaLand Investment (CLI), is scaling its global resort footprint through asset-light expansion. Riding on growing demand for experiential stays, Ascott now has around 50 properties in resort destinations in operation and under development worldwide, supported by 11 new signings in the past 10 months secured via management and franchise agreements. These represent about 5% of its global portfolio of over 1,000 properties, reflecting a strategic focus on the fast-growing leisure segment[1]. This momentum is driven by Ascott’s multi-typology brand strategy, which adapts well-loved brands such as Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection and The Unlimited Collection for resort settings. This approach enables efficient scaling in high-potential destinations while fulfilling lifestyle aspirations of its growing Ascott Star Rewards membership and delivering brand-led solutions that drive long-term value for property owners.
Capitalising on growing demand for experiential stays, Ascott now has around 50 properties in resort destinations in operation and under development worldwide, supported by 12 new signings in the past 10 months secured via management and franchise agreements. Among these is the upcoming Ascott Abov Patong Phuket Resort (pictured), which marks Ascott’s debut in Phuket. Just 150 metres from the iconic Patong Beach, it features 254 rooms, comprehensive leisure facilities and event venues. Also part of the development is a 227-unit branded residence, Residences at Ascott Abov Patong Phuket.
Recent signings across Asia and the Middle East reflect Ascott’s strategic expansion into key leisure hotspots. These include iconic beach destinations such as Patong Beach in Phuket and Jimbaran Beach in Bali. Ascott is also entering Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah’s premier man-made coral island known for its pristine beaches. In Vietnam, Ascott is growing its presence in Phu Quoc, voted the world’s second-best island[2], and Nha Trang, an established coastal city often dubbed the “Riviera of the South China Sea”. The company is also capitalising on emerging opportunities in fast-growing destinations such as Cam Ranh, an up-and-coming aviation and leisure hub, and Sam Son, a rising domestic and regional tourism hotspot. Additionally, Ascott is entering Labuan Bajo, Indonesia — the gateway to Komodo National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In South Korea, it is tapping demand in Gangneung, the leading east coast destination and host of the 2018 Winter Olympics.
Ascott’s push into resort destinations capitalises on robust industry tailwinds. Global leisure travel spend is projected to triple to US$15 trillion by 2040, fuelled by increasing demand from the burgeoning middle class in emerging markets such as China, India and Saudi Arabia, the rise of experience-led younger travellers, and surging domestic and regional tourism1. Notably, over 70% of travellers from emerging markets now combine business and leisure trips, highlighting the growing importance of bleisure travel1. Within this broader trend, the global resort segment – valued at US$300.03 billion in 2023 – is forecast to reach US$945.38 billion by 2030, growing at 18.2% CAGR, driven by rising disposable incomes, increased international travel, and preference for destination-led, experience-rich stays [3].
Ms Serena Lim, Chief Growth Officer, Ascott, said: “As leisure travel continues to outpace global tourism growth[4], we are seeing strong momentum from property owners eager to grow with us in the resort space. Owners are drawn to our flex-hybrid model, which optimises returns and mitigates risk in dynamic leisure markets by serving both short and extended stays within a single operational framework. Complemented by our multi-typology brand strategy, we align the right brand and format to each resort setting, enabling differentiated, locally attuned guest experiences while staying responsive to evolving travel trends. Backed by a loyal and expanding member base seeking elevated leisure experiences, Ascott is well-positioned to deliver long-term value through exceptional resort stays, creating results for owners, delight for guests and impact across the markets we serve.”
Ms Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer, Ascott, said: “Resorts represent a powerful extension of Ascott’s brand promise to let guests ‘Stay Your Way’, unlocking a world of leisure-led experiences that elevate our Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) programme to new heights. From sun-drenched beachfront villas and serene mountain retreats to château stays and immersive wellness escapes, each resort adds lifestyle richness to the loyalty journey, deepening member engagement and incentivising cross-destination travel. At the same time, a growing base of loyal ASR members fuels demand for these differentiated resort offerings globally — accelerating our resort expansion strategy with data-backed insights and a ready community of experience-driven travellers. Ascott’s flex-hybrid model and multi-typology brand approach allow us to scale trusted urban brands into resort destinations with local authenticity and operational excellence, creating a virtuous cycle that benefits guests, members and property owners alike.”
Expanding Reach Across Leisure Hotspots
Ascott is expanding into sought-after resort destinations with new property signings that deliver diverse, experiential stays. In Thailand, Ascott Abov Patong Phuket Resort will feature 254 rooms and comprehensive leisure facilities including all-day dining, a swimming pool, rooftop bar, pool bar, spa, gym, kids’ club and event spaces. Located just 150 metres from iconic Patong Beach and surrounded by tourist attractions, the resort enjoys a prime position in Thailand’s leading leisure destination, known for its strong year-round demand and diverse visitor base. Guided by the brand’s understated luxury philosophy, Ascott Abov Patong Phuket Resort will showcase its “Fine Arts Inspired by Nature” concept, blending luxury, tranquility and local artistry in perfect harmony. The project also includes Residences at Ascott Abov Patong Phuket, a 227-unit branded residence, with completion targeted for 2027.
Vietnam is a key focus of Ascott’s resort portfolio expansion. Lasong Hotel & Villas Sam Son by The Unlimited Collection (pictured) in Thanh Hoa began operating in phases from April 2025, just six months after signing. Offering an immersive stay along one of Vietnam’s most renowned beaches, the resort features boutique rooms, private villas, dining venues, a Korean jjimjilbang and event facilities including a grand ballroom.
Ascott is also scaling its resort portfolio in Vietnam. Somerset Nha Trang, part of the landmark Libera Nha Trang development, will bring the brand’s trusted family-friendly resort living to one of Vietnam’s most popular beach destinations. Meanwhile, Citadines Selavia Phu Quoc will anchor a mixed-use precinct on the island’s popular southwest coast. Opening in 2027, this 369-unit beachfront development will offer premium amenities including a spa with onsen facilities, all-day dining and expansive event spaces. In Cam Ranh, along Long Beach, Ascott will debut the HARRIS brand in Vietnam with the 693-unit HARRIS Resort Cam Ranh. Designed as an all-in-one resort destination, it will feature specialty dining, a beach club, water park and recreational facilities. Business travellers will also be catered for with a ballroom and dedicated meeting spaces. Slated to open in 2026, HARRIS Resort Cam Ranh marks the brand’s continued expansion beyond Indonesia into high-potential Southeast Asian markets.
Separately, Lasong Hotel & Villas Sam Son by The Unlimited Collection in Thanh Hoa began opening in phases in April 2025, less than six months after signing. The resort offers a distinctive retreat on one of Vietnam’s most storied beaches, blending boutique hotel rooms, private villas, wellness amenities – including a Korean jjimjilbang and dedicated spa – a grand ballroom and culturally inspired dining. As the second property under The Unlimited Collection in Vietnam after Anmira Resort & Spa Hoi An by The Unlimited Collection, it underscores Ascott’s commitment to culturally immersive experiences in fast-growing leisure destinations.
In Indonesia, the 120-key lyf Labuan Bajo marks Ascott’s debut in one of the country’s most sought-after resort destinations, a rising eco-tourism hub and gateway to UNESCO-listed Komodo National Park. Opening in 2027, the property will introduce lyf’s experience-led social living concept to Labuan Bajo, featuring vibrant communal spaces, coworking zones and curated local experiences designed to foster connection and exploration among next-generation travellers.
The upcoming 57-unit all-villa Oakwood Jimbaran Villas and Residences Bali (pictured) strengthens Ascott’s established Bali portfolio, providing direct access to Jimbaran Beach, one of Bali’s most coveted destinations known for its pristine coastline, world-class seafood restaurants and breathtaking sunset views.
Three other resort developments across Indonesia are also slated to open from 2026 to 2028. In Bali, the 57-unit Oakwood Jimbaran Villas and Residences Bali will provide direct access to the renowned shores of Jimbaran Beach, while the 366-unit Oakwood Premier Berawa Beach Bali will offer upscale beachfront living in the trendsetting district of Canggu. In Sanur, the 180-unit Oakwood Sanur Bali will be positioned within the Special Economic Zone, adjacent to the highly anticipated Bali International Hospital – a future hub for medical tourism. Featuring ocean views and convenient beach access alongside diverse accommodation choices, the property will blend coastal charm with wellness-focused amenities, complemented by recreational facilities, event spaces and destination dining experiences.
In South Korea, Ascott is introducing its Oakwood brand to Lagoon Town, a landmark resort complex under development in Gangneung’s Cultural Olympic Special Zone. Overlooking both Gyeongpo Lake and Gyeongpo Beach, the 500-key property will meet rising demand for leisure-led extended stays on Korea’s scenic east coast. Located just five minutes from Gangneung Station and two hours from Seoul via KTX, the property is positioned to become a key coastal retreat for domestic and international travellers.
In the UAE, Al Mahra Resort by The Crest Collection is set to open in 2027 on Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah’s flagship beachfront leisure destination. The resort will feature 539 uniquely designed rooms and luxury suites with a comprehensive selection of amenities including all-day dining, specialty restaurants, bars, a spa, swimming pool, gym, kids’ playroom, club lounge and flexible event spaces – making it a standout destination for upscale coastal getaways.
These additions expand Ascott’s growing resort portfolio, which includes ski retreat Oakwood Suites Chongli in China’s premier winter sports hub, the all-villa Oakwood Ha Long near Vietnam’s UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay, Somerset Pattaya on Thailand’s vibrant coast and Château Belmont Tours by The Crest Collection in France’s Loire Valley. Ascott will also debut its Preference brand in the Philippines with Balai Dajao by Preference in Siargao island, the country’s celebrated surfing capital. The 100-unit property featuring suites and villas is expected to operate from late 2027. With over 20 new properties in resort destinations set to open over the next three years, Ascott continues strengthening its lifestyle hospitality presence in key leisure markets worldwide. Explore Ascott’s resort destinations at www.discoverasr.com.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
The Ascott Limited
The Ascott Limited (Ascott) is driven by a vision to be the preferred hospitality company, enriching global living with heartfelt experiences. With a portfolio of more than 1,000 properties spanning over 230 cities across more than 40 countries, Ascott’s presence spans Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the USA. Its diverse collection of award-winning brands includes Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection, The Unlimited Collection, Fox, Harris, POP!, Preference, Quest, Vertu and Yello.
Ascott specialises in managing and franchising a wide range of lodging options, including serviced residences, hotels, resorts, social living properties and branded residences, catering to the varying needs and preferences of global travellers. Through the Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) loyalty programme, members enjoy exclusive privileges and curated experiences, enhancing every aspect of their travel journey.
As a wholly owned business unit of CapitaLand Investment Limited, Ascott generates fee-related earnings by leveraging its expertise in both lodging management and investment management. It also drives the expansion of funds under management by growing its sponsored CapitaLand Ascott Trust and private funds.
Headquartered and listed in Singapore in 2021, CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) is a leading global real asset manager with a strong Asia foothold. As at 31 March 2025, CLI had S$117 billion of funds under management held via stakes in seven listed real estate investment trusts and business trusts and a suite of private real asset vehicles that invest in demographics, disruption and digitalisation-themed strategies. Its diversified real asset classes include retail, office, lodging, industrial, logistics, business parks, wellness, self-storage, data centres, private credit and special opportunities.
CLI aims to scale its fund management, lodging management and commercial management businesses globally and maintain effective capital management. As the investment management arm of CapitaLand Group, CLI has access to the development capabilities of and pipeline investment opportunities from CapitaLand Group’s development arm. In 2025, CapitaLand Group celebrates 25 years of excellence in real estate and continues to innovate and shape the industry.
As a responsible company, CLI places sustainability at the core of what it does and has committed to achieve Net Zero carbon emissions for Scope 1 and 2 by 2050. CLI contributes to the environmental and social well-being of the communities where it operates, as it delivers long-term economic value to its stakeholders.
Thai police arrested three Lao women in Bangkok for offering sexual services online. 08 August 2025. (Photo credit: Khaosod)
On 8 August, Thai authorities arrested three Lao women for offering online sexual services online in Bangkok.
The police launched the operation after receiving a tip-off from a customer who complained that the women’s real appearance did not match the images used in their advertisements on X (formerly Twitter).
The suspects – Baitoey, 27, Nan, 27, and Paeng, 31 – are all Lao nationals.
Police reported they posted photos of “attractive women” with body types similar to their own, including measurements and prices, then used Line, a popular messaging app in Thailand, to communicate with clients and arrange hotel meetings.
During the raid, officers seized six mobile phones, 60 condoms, and lubricant.
The women have been charged under Thailand’s Prevention and Suppression of Prostitution Act for advertising or soliciting prostitution in public. The offence carries a penalty of six months to two years in prison, a fine of between THB 10,000 and 40,000 (USD 260-1,040), or both.
All three are currently in custody at the local police station pending further legal proceedings.
Similarly, on the previous day, Thai authorities also arrested three Chinese men and two Lao women, after discovering they had been livestreaming sexual content through Chinese social-based media platforms from a luxury pool villa in Pattaya