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iQIYI Premieres “Born to Be Alive”, Turning China’s Conservation History into Prestige Drama

BEIJING, Feb. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On January 30, iQIYI, China’s leading online entertainment platform, premiered the realistic drama “Born to Be Alive”, turning the little‑known story of China’s wildlife rangers into a high‑impact, mainstream series.

Rather than using conservation as a vague backdrop, “Born to Be Alive” puts it at the heart of the drama. The story weaves together elements of crime, survival thriller and family emotion as the rangers battle poachers and confront difficult choices between survival and ecological responsibility.


Inspired by true stories from the 1990s, the series is set in the Sanjiangyuan area of Qinghai province in China. Against the backdrop of the country’s rapid economic transformation, it follows a small group of rangers tasked with stopping poaching and protecting a fragile ecosystem amid the complex interplay between development and conservation.

Led by actress Zi YANG and featuring a special appearance by actor Ge HU, the production spent 188 days filming on location in remote, high‑altitude parts of Qinghai. The cast and crew worked through thin air and extreme cold to reproduce the physical reality of patrols, stake‑outs and confrontations on the plateau. This on‑the‑ground approach gives the series a cinematic realism and makes the landscape itself feel like a central character.

Xiaohui WANG, Chief Content Officer of iQIYI, stated: “This series embodies the true spirit of long-form storytelling. Our greatest achievement lies in continually pushing creative and physical boundaries to deliver a work that reflects the power of nature and resilience of life.”

“Born to Be Alive” has broken out as one of the most talked‑about Chinese dramas of the season. Ahead of its launch, the series attracted more than 2 million advance reservations on iQIYI, signaling strong audience appetite for grounded, issue‑driven storytelling. After release, its content popularity index on iQIYI has surpassed 8,500 by February 4 and it generated 887 trending topics across major Chinese platforms such as Weibo and Douyin.

The series is a reflection of iQIYI’s clear commitment to long‑form, high‑craft storytelling. It shows a willingness to invest in socially resonant IP. With “Born to Be Alive”, iQIYI not only pays tribute to the unsung guardians who protected the plateau’s ecology; it also demonstrates the company’s ability to combine commercial appeal with social impact. 

Contact:
iQIYI Press
press@qiyi.com

Hungary Advances Wastewater Project in Vientiane, Extends Scholarships for Laos

Hungary Laos development cooperation wastewater project in Vientiane
A complete Hungary Laos development cooperation wastewater project in Vientiane. (Photo by Lao Economic Daily)

Hungary has moved forward with key development support for Laos, reviewing progress on a major wastewater treatment project in Vientiane and confirming continued scholarship support for Lao students.

On 4 February, Hungary’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Péter Szijjártó, attended a handover ceremony at the wastewater treatment plant in Vientiane’s Kham Ngoi village. 

The project, valued at USD 90 million, is a core part of efforts to improve sanitation and support the city’s long-term urban development.

The facility currently treats up to 26,000 cubic metres of wastewater per day, serving around 80,000 residents. Construction began in January 2023. 

Work has now moved into a second phase, backed by an additional USD 15 million in Hungarian financing. Once completed in 2027, the upgraded system is expected to double treatment capacity to 52,000 cubic metres per day, extending coverage to about 160,000 people. The expansion will incorporate modern technology aligned with European Union standards.

Hungarian Aid Background and Future Plans

Hungary’s support extends beyond infrastructure.

Szijjártó said Hungary has implemented six major cooperation projects in Laos, including initiatives in food safety, livestock development, and the digitisation of population records. 

Overall, Hungary has provided USD 213 million in interest-free loans to support development projects in the country.

During the meeting between Hungarian and Laos delegates to discuss the infrastructure project and future between two countries. (Photo by Pasaxon)

During meetings with Lao Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane, the two sides discussed a gradual shift toward a more market-oriented framework. 

Under this approach, financing would move away from interest-free loans, with rates aligned to market conditions. An agreement is under consideration.

Szijjártó also proposed an agreement aimed at protecting Hungarian private companies investing in Laos. While Thongsavan welcomed the proposal, he said official talks would begin after the Lao elections in February and the formation of a new government in March.

Meanwhile, Laos continues to seek Hungarian support for the development of a national agricultural land registry system, seen as a key step toward improving land management and supporting economic development.

Hungary Scholarship Support

Hungary’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Péter Szijjártó met with Lao Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane. (Photo by Pasaxon)

Human resource development remains another key pillar of cooperation. Both sides confirmed that the Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship programme has been extended until 2028, offering 150 scholarships each year for Lao students to study in Hungary, particularly in healthcare, life sciences, and modern agriculture.

Looking ahead, Hungary pledged support as Laos prepares to graduate from Least Developed Country status. This includes assistance in engaging with European Union frameworks and trade programs to support economic transition.

THE YEAR OF THE FIRE HORSE: BIRKENSTOCK INTRODUCES AN EXCLUSIVE SPECIAL EDITION, CELEBRATING SPRING FESTIVAL IN 2026

LINZ AM RHEIN, Germany, Feb. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — On February 17, 2026, the first new moon of the year marks the beginning of the Spring Festival, celebrated under the Chinese zodiac sign of the Fire Horse. To honor this meaningful occasion and its rich symbolism, BIRKENSTOCK has created a special SPRING FESTIVAL edition, that reinterprets three of the brand’s most iconic silhouettes and underscores the versatility of each classic.

 

Drawing on deep emotional and aesthetic cues from the corresponding cultures, the concept translates these inspirations into a coherent and compelling design language. The BIRKENSTOCK Spring Festival Special Edition reflects the brand’s commitment to quality, function, craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail. Like all BIRKENSTOCK developments, the capsule collection refers directly to the brand’s archive and heritage. With the selection of the BOSTON, ARIZONA and FLORIDA, BIRKENSTOCK pays tribute to three culturally relevant key silhouettes. Each model in the SPRING FESTIVAL SPECIAL EDITION is presented in a carefully curated design featuring thoughtful color, material or detailing choices that respect the symbolic meaning of the Spring Festival while staying true to BIRKENSTOCK’s brand DNA.

THREE ICONS IN A LUXURIOUS UPDATE

The collection opens with the FLORIDA fine strap sandal in a Full Exquisite execution, featuring the original BIRKENSTOCK cork-latex footbed. Made from high-shine leather and adorned with three golden D-buckles, this interpretation of the FLORIDA attracts uncompromising, luxurious sophistication. Its color, a deep and expressive Zinfandel red, is a direct nod to the Spring Festival.

The inspiration for the special BOSTON edition is drawn from the Fire Horse, the zodiac sign of the 2026 Spring Festival. Crafted from BIRKENSTOCK’s signature suede leather, the BOSTON remains the most popular interpretation of the brand’s first-ever closed-toe silhouette. A textured hair-on-hide strap in a contrasting black, pays tribute to the untamed energy and grace of the Fire Horse and offers a new take on the BOSTON in Taupe.

The cloud motif is also incorporated as a design element in the BIRKENSTOCK Special Edition. Both BOSTON and ARIZONA receive a luxurious upgrade defined by artisanal finesse. The foundation is an original BIRKENSTOCK half-exquisite footbed lined with premium leather, paired with an upper crafted from refined, semi-matte leather in black or vanilla. The gleaming D-buckles are accentuated by a playful, selectively applied gold foil print that elegantly translates the cloud symbolism into the overall aesthetic. The drop is rounded off with versions of the BOSTON and ARIZONA in black and rust red velvet in a full exquisite execution with golden Big Buckles.

A CONSTANTLY GROWING PRODUCT UNIVERSE

The BIRKENSTOCK SPRING FESTIVAL capsule once again underscores the brand’s unwavering commitment to quality and craftsmanship—values inherently linked to its core principles of tradition and function, rooted in the mission to enable every human being to walk as nature intended. Not only at the dawn of a new lunar cycle, but throughout the entire year, day after day. This ambition remains inseparable from BIRKENSTOCK’s ongoing dedication to celebrating and building an archive based on more than 250 years of tradition in shoemaking and orthopedic expertise—an archive that already comprises over 700 models and now gains yet another promising addition thanks to the SPRING FESTIVAL edition.

INFORMATION FOR EDITORIAL TEAMS

Campaign Imagery SPRING FESTIVAL EDITION: Download
Still Life Product Imagery SPRING FESTIVAL EDITION: Download
Creative Product Imagery SPRING FESTIVAL EDITION: Download
Campaign Video SPRING FESTIVAL EDITION: Download

ARIZONA + BOSTON, Velvet Full Exquisite, black + rust red: 2249 CNY
FLORIDA D-Buckle Full Exquisite, zinfandel: 1999 CNY
BOSTON Taupe with textured hair-on-hide strap in black: 1599 CNY
ARIZONA Half Exquisite Cloud Paint, black and vanilla: 1349 CNY
BOSTON Half Exquisite Cloud Paint, black: 1599 CNY

Sizes: 36 – 48
Available exclusively at www.birkenstock.com* and select wholesale partners*

*in Vietnam, China, Hong Kong, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Taiwan and Cambodia.

ABOUT BIRKENSTOCK

BIRKENSTOCK is a global brand which embraces all consumers regardless of geography, gender, age and income and which is committed to a clear purpose – maintaining foot health. Deeply rooted in studies of the biomechanics of the human foot and footed on a family tradition of shoemaking that can be traced back to 1774, BIRKENSTOCK is a timeless «super brand» with a brand universe that transcends product categories and ranges from entry-level to luxury price points while addressing the growing need for a conscious and active lifestyle. Function, quality and tradition are the core values of the lifestyle brand which features products in the footwear, sleep systems and natural cosmetics segments. BIRKENSTOCK is the inventor of the footbed and has shaped the principle of walking as intended by nature (“Naturgewolltes Gehen”).

With around 6,200 employees worldwide, BIRKENSTOCK is convinced that how things are made matters as much as the product itself. To ensure these quality standards, the Group operates a vertically integrated manufacturing base and produces all footbeds in Germany. In addition, BIRKENSTOCK assembles over 95% of all products in Germany and sources over 90% of materials and components from Europe. Raw materials are processed to the highest environmental and social standards in the industry. For materials testing BIRKENSTOCK operates state-of-the-art scientific laboratories.

Headquartered in Linz am Rhein, the BIRKENSTOCK Group also operates its own sales offices in the United States and Canada as well as in Brazil, Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Poland, Switzerland, Sweden, Spain, the United Kingdom, France, Norway, the Netherlands, Dubai, Singapore and India.

Birkenstock Group B.V. & Co. KG
Burg Ockenfels, Linz am Rhein, Germany

For further information, please visit www.birkenstock-group.com
You can find our online shop at www.birkenstock.com

Volvo Cars Q4 2025: turnaround plan on track, but challenging external environment

GOTHENBURG, Sweden, Feb. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ —

Volvo Cars’ financial report for the fourth quarter and full year 2025.

  • Q4 revenue was SEK 94.4 bn (SEK 112.1 bn in Q4 2024)
  • Q4 operating income was SEK 1.9 bn (SEK 3.9 bn in Q4 2024)
  • Q4 operating income (excl. items affecting comparability) was SEK 1.8 bn (SEK 5.6 bn in Q4 2024)
  • Q4 EBIT margin was 2.0 per cent (3.4 per cent in Q4 2024)
  • Q4 EBIT margin (excl. items affecting comparability) was 1.9 per cent (5.0 per cent in Q4 2024)
  • Q4 basic earnings per share were SEK 0.43 (SEK 0.84 in Q4 2024)
  • Q4 fully electric car sales share at 24 per cent (21 per cent in Q4 2024)
  • Q4 electrified car sales share at 49 per cent (47 per cent in Q4 2024)
  • Q4 free cash flow of SEK 8.8 billion (SEK 13.6 billion in Q4 2024)

Volvo Cars today reports a group operating income (EBIT) of SEK 1.9 billion and an EBIT margin of 2.0 per cent for the fourth quarter of 2025. While the results reflect a challenging external environment, the company realised a positive free cash flow of SEK 8.8 billion for the quarter, thanks to the successful execution of its SEK 18 billion cost and cash action plan.

For the full year 2025, Volvo Cars recorded an adjusted operating income of SEK 12.5 billion, which translates into an adjusted EBIT margin of 3.5 per cent. Full-year free cash flow came in at SEK 2.4 billion, despite a challenging external environment.

The company’s fourth quarter performance was affected by several external factors, such as EU-US import tariffs and the negative currency effect of a stronger Swedish krona. On top of that, revenues were affected by weak demand putting pressure on pricing and the removal of EV incentives in the US, which negatively impacted sales in the quarter.  

Fully electric sales grew in three consecutive months through December, retail orders are growing, and Volvo Cars saw a solid performance in China thanks to encouraging demand for the XC70 long-range plug-in hybrid SUV. The company increased its premium market share in the highly competitive China market in 2025.

Volvo Cars continued to see positive effects from its SEK 18 billion cost and cash action plan. The company established a new and lower cost base, navigated the turbulent external environment and put itself back on a path to profitable growth.

“I am very pleased that we successfully executed our cost and cash plan,” says Håkan Samuelsson, chief executive. “Our actions in 2025 have set us on a path to return to volume growth and improved cash flows.”

More details about Volvo Cars’ performance can be found in the fourth quarter and full-year 2025 financial report.

Looking ahead 
In 2026, Volvo Cars will focus on executing its strategy. At its Strategic Update in November, the company laid out its long-term financial and strategic direction which will help it return to profitable growth. It is structurally building a company with the aim of achieving long-term EBIT margins of over 8 per cent, strong positive cash flows and growth through electrified products. 

This starts with the new and fully electric EX60 mid-size SUV, revealed two weeks ago. Initial customer response to the EX60 has been overwhelmingly positive, and the company is encouraged by the strong order numbers so far. 

Deliveries of the EX60 will ramp up during the second half of 2026. Another building block for growth is the XC70, which will enter its first full year of production and sales. The improved model year 2026 EX90 will reach more customers, and the EX30 will complete its first full year of production in Ghent.

Nevertheless, 2026 will be challenging for the industry with continued pricing pressure from a competitive market, tariff effects, regulatory uncertainty and softer consumer sentiment. The overall premium market is expected to shrink.

In the first half of 2026, Volvo Cars will also have negative cash effects from a temporary inventory build-up of XC90 and XC60 cars in the Torslanda plant, to meet full year demand for these still very popular models and compensate for the start of production of the EX60. 

In the short term, the company will continue to become more efficient and lower its cost base, which will help to mitigate a persistently tough external environment. Volvo Cars will further reduce variable and indirect costs throughout 2026. Its investment pace will further move towards affordable levels.  

For 2026, Volvo Cars aims to come back to volume growth on a year-on-year basis for the full year and increase cash generation, with full-year free cash flows clearly better than what it achieved in 2025.

This disclosure contains information that Volvo Car AB (publ) is obliged to make public pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation (EU nr 596/2014). The information was submitted for publication, through the agency of the contact person, on 05-02-2026 07:00 CET.

For further information please contact:

Volvo Cars Media Relations
+46 31-59 65 25
media@volvocars.com

Volvo Cars Investor Relations
+46 31-793 94 00
investors@volvocars.com

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/volvo-car-ab–publ-/r/volvo-cars-q4-2025–turnaround-plan-on-track–but-challenging-external-environment,c4302907

The following files are available for download:

 

Balancing Excellence: An NLCS (Singapore) Student Representing Singapore on the International Cricket Stage

SINGAPORE, Feb. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Grade 11 student Aahan Vuthandam represents Singapore in international cricket while maintaining academic excellence at NLCS (Singapore), reflecting the school’s ethos of academic rigour, pastoral care, and enrichment.

ACC Men’s U19 Premier Cup 2025 | Singapore versus Iran: Aahan Vuthandam received 'Player of the Match' for his extraordinary knock of 188 off 121 balls and 2 wickets with the ball. [Photo used with permission from Singapore Cricket Association]
ACC Men’s U19 Premier Cup 2025 | Singapore versus Iran: Aahan Vuthandam received ‘Player of the Match’ for his extraordinary knock of 188 off 121 balls and 2 wickets with the ball. [Photo used with permission from Singapore Cricket Association]

When most Grade 11 students are focused solely on IB Diploma preparations, Aahan Vuthandam is balancing academics with representing Singapore on the international cricket stage and excelling at both.

The talented all-rounder has made headlines in Singapore cricket, including a remarkable 188-run knock that earned him Player of the Match honours and recognition as the leading run scorer in the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Under-19 qualifiers, as well as Player of the Series at the UAE Under-19 tournament, competing against teams from 14 countries.

The Challenge of Balancing Passion and Academics

For student-athletes like Aahan, the demands are significant. Grade 11 marks a crucial year in the IB Diploma Programme, with rigorous coursework, extended essays, and preparation for final examinations. Add international cricket tournaments, training sessions, and travel commitments, and the challenge becomes formidable.

“We knew NLCS had a reputation for academic rigour, which might seem counterintuitive (as a choice for school) when your child dedicates significant time to sport,” Aahan’s father reflected. “But we believed a more demanding environment would encourage him to develop stronger time management skills and take ownership of his choices.”

Aahan has been playing cricket since the age of five, and over the years, the sport has built not just his skills on the field, but his resilience, discipline, and sense of responsibility off it. Since joining NLCS (Singapore), he has found an environment that nurtures both his passion and his academic journey.

“When you’re passionate about something, there’s a natural sense of responsibility that comes with it,” his father observed. “The encouragement from his teachers and the support from his teammates have motivated him to put in the extra hours needed to keep up with both commitments.”

How NLCS (Singapore) Supports Student-Athletes

NLCS (Singapore)’s approach to supporting student-athletes goes beyond flexible scheduling, reflecting the school’s commitment to a holistic education.

Tutors’ Commitment to Support: Teachers and class mentors actively monitor student-athletes’ academic progress and maintain open dialogue with families to understand the structured nature of athletic commitments. When Aahan recently missed around 10 days for an under-19 tournament in Dubai, his teachers offered reassurance. “Before he left, a couple of teachers told him, ‘Don’t worry, we’ve got you.’ That gave us tremendous confidence,” his father shared. Upon his return, he was supported in prioritising key areas of learning, particularly in demanding subjects such as Computer Science HL. This partnership ensures student-athletes receive the guidance and encouragement they need to develop effective time management strategies and balance their dual pursuits.

Holistic Development: The school recognizes that elite-level sports cultivate essential life skills, discipline, resilience, teamwork, and the ability to perform under pressure, that complement academic learning. “Through cricket, he has navigated success and setbacks, learned about leadership and collaboration. These are lessons that extend far beyond the classroom,” Aahan’s father noted.

A Community That Inspires

Aahan’s journey has been shaped not just by his own dedication, but by the community around him. Within Singapore’s cricket circles, he has watched older players progress to prestigious universities like Imperial College London, University College London, and the University of Melbourne. Their achievements have served as both inspiration and proof that excelling in sport doesn’t mean sacrificing academic aspirations.

International Recognition

Aahan’s recent achievements on the cricket field demonstrate the calibre of talent at NLCS (Singapore). His performances for Singapore’s youth teams have drawn attention from cricket circles across Asia, with the Singapore Cricket Association celebrating his contributions to national squads.

A Model for Aspiring Student-Athletes

Aahan’s journey offers encouragement to students passionate about pursuing sports alongside academic excellence. At NLCS (Singapore), the philosophy is clear: the school provides floors, not ceilings. Students are supported to excel academically while being encouraged to pursue their passions without limits.

The key lies in finding the right support system. For Aahan, success has come from the combination of parental guidance, dedicated teachers, and inspiring peers. “We’ve learned that when children have something they’re truly passionate about, it becomes a source of energy and motivation that positively impacts every other area of their life,” his father reflected.

Aahan himself reflected that, “Cricket’s challenges have taught me to stay grounded and composed. Sport is a powerful leveller that positively influences other areas of life, including studies and friendships.”

The school’s commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals means recognising that excellence takes many forms, whether it’s achieving top grades, representing your country in sport, excelling in the arts, or contributing to the community. With the right environment and support, students can pursue their passions while building the skills and resilience that will serve them throughout their lives.

About North London Collegiate School (Singapore)

Founded in August 2020, North London Collegiate School (Singapore) is a British International School offering the academically ambitious NLCS curriculum, followed by the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme and culminating in the IB Diploma Programme.

Drawing on 175 years of educational heritage from its founding school in the UK, NLCS (Singapore) nurtures individuals to be intellectually curious, socially confident, and grounded in compassion through a rigorous academic framework, rich co-curricular opportunities, and exceptional pastoral care.

Situated on Depot Road, the School is part of a global family of schools committed to educational excellence and developing global citizens.

To learn more about NLCS (Singapore), please visit our website (https://nlcssingapore.sg/) and follow us on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn.

For media enquiries, please contact the NLCS (Singapore) Marketing Team
Email: marketing@nlcssingapore.sg

Global Mind Australia and Farmacist enter strategic partnership to advance precision, sustainable agriculture from Australia to ASEAN

BRISBANE, Australia, Feb. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — through Global Mind Australia (GMAA), AgriS (Thanh Thanh Cong – Bien Hoa Joint Stock Company, HOSE: SBT) and Farmacist, the largest independent agronomic service provider and advisory firm in the Australian sugar industry, have officially signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement, marking a significant milestone in advancing science-led, sustainable, and globally aligned agricultural practices.

The signing ceremony, held at the Trade and Investment Queensland Office in Brisbane, underscored the shared commitment of both parties to promote knowledge transfer, agronomic excellence, and the commercialization of advanced agricultural solutions, with a strong focus on soil health, sustainability, and farmer-centric innovation.


The event was attended by high-ranking officials from the Queensland Government, including the Honourable Ros Bates MP, Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment, and Training. Also in attendance were representatives from the Department of Primary Industries (DPI), Trade and Investment Queensland (TIQ), and the Australian Trade and Investment Commission (Austrade). AgriS was represented by the Chairlady, Ms. Dang Huynh Uc My (Omi Dang), alongside senior leadership from AgriS, GMAA, GMG and the Board of Directors of Farmacist.

Queensland Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, Honourable Ros Bates MP, said the partnership would deliver practical benefits for Queensland’s regions, supporting jobs, exports, and long-term growth in the agriculture sector.

“This agreement backs Queensland’s agtech and agribusinesses to grow, create jobs and reach new markets,” Minister Bates said.

Minister Bates shared: “It builds on our strengths in agriculture and innovation and supports regional communities by turning opportunity into real economic outcomes.”

AgriS and Farmacist have officially signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement, witnessed by the Hon. Ros Bates MP – Queensland Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, and representatives from DPI and TIQ
AgriS and Farmacist have officially signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement, witnessed by the Hon. Ros Bates MP – Queensland Minister for Finance, Trade, Employment and Training, and representatives from DPI and TIQ

Farmacist plays catalytic role as the Center of Excellence within the AgriS’s ecosystem

Under the cooperation framework, Farmacist will play a central and catalytic role as the Center of Excellence (CoE) within the AgriS ecosystem. As the core hub for agronomic expertise, Farmacist will lead the standardization, validation, and scaling of best-in-class agricultural practices across multiple crops and geographies.

This role will form the foundation for AgriS’s R&D, Agronomy & Extension (RD&AE) Hub, as well as a network of demo farms and applied research platforms in Australia and Southeast Asia. Through this structure, proven agronomic knowledge will be systematically translated into scalable, field-ready practices that can be replicated across diverse farming systems.

Commercializing high tech agricultural solutions in scales

The partnership is designed to convert agronomic expertise and technology into integrated, commercially viable solutions. By integrating Farmacist’s proprietary data, methodologies, and advisory platforms into AgriOS, AgriS’s digital operating system, the two parties will jointly develop end-to-end service models combining agronomic advisory, agricultural inputs, mechanization, and precision farming solutions. These offerings will be delivered through modern service-based business models such as Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), Farming-as-a-Service (FaaS), and Data-as-a-Service (DaaS), enabling farmers and agribusinesses to make informed, data-driven decisions at scale.

This approach reflects a shift from fragmented interventions toward integrated solution ecosystems that generate measurable productivity, sustainability, and economic outcomes.

Strengthening AgriS’s long term vision

The strategic partnership builds on a multi-year collaboration that began in 2022, when AgriS and Farmacist jointly conducted strategic assessments and agronomic advisory projects across key agricultural regions in Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Australia. These initiatives subsequently progressed into large-scale field implementation, including the establishment of demo farms applying internationally recognized best management practices and validating data-driven, sustainable farming models.

The proven outcomes of this journey have laid a solid foundation for elevating the relationship from project-based collaboration to a long-term strategic partnership.

Leveraging Farmacist’s strong track record, including its extensive engagement with government-funded programs and large institutional clients in Australia, the cooperation further reinforces AgriS’s positioning as a regional pioneer in precision, sustainable, and high-tech agriculture, aligned with global standards and best practices.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Ms. Dang Huynh Uc My, Chairlady of AgriS, shared: “AgriS is transforming from a traditional agricultural enterprise into a platform-based organization that applies an ecosystem-led approach across the entire value chain, guided by its Five-Stakeholder model linking the Government, Farmers, Scientists, Enterprises, and Financial Institutions in Vietnam and globally”.

“This strategic investment in Farmacist that is an Australia’s leading agronomy consultancy, AgriS is advancing its long-term vision to build a science- and data-driven agricultural platform. This platform aims to standardize agronomic knowledge, commercialize technology into practical solutions, and scale AgTech–FoodTech capabilities from Australia into Southeast Asia, creating sustainable value across the entire agricultural ecosystem, from farmers to national and regional food security matters”.

Mr. Jason Dowie, Director of Farmacist, shared: “Today marks more than a transaction. It marks the coming together of shared values, shared capability, and a shared global ambition going forward.”

“This is a significant occasion, not only for Farmacist and AgriS, but for what it represents in terms of Queensland expertise connecting with global agricultural opportunity, particularly with our Asian neighbours.  As such, we would like to sincerely thank Trade and Investment Queensland for hosting this exciting event”, Mr. Dowie shared. 

Farmacist, founded in Australia in 2010, is recognized for its integrated approach combining independent agronomy, applied research, and commercial implementation, serving hundreds of farms across multiple regions. Its strong emphasis on science-based recommendations and sustainability aligns closely with AgriS’s long-term vision of building circular, high-value agricultural ecosystems.

About AgriS 
About Global Mind Australia
Global Mind Australia (GMAA) is the international investment and partnership arm of AgriS (Thanh Thanh Cong – Bien Hoa Joint Stock Company, HOSE: SBT) in Australia. GMAA focuses on agriculture, food, and sustainability-driven opportunities, fostering cross-border collaboration, technology transfer, and market expansion between Australia, Vietnam, and the wider Asia-Pacific region.

About Farmacist
Founded in 2010, Farmacist began providing agronomy services in the Mackay and Burdekin regions of Australia. Guided by a strong commitment to farmers’ needs, high-quality service and support, and the application of advanced technology and research-driven solutions, Farmacist has grown into a team of more than 40 qualified agronomists and professionals.

Today, Farmacist delivers practical and precise agronomy services to farmers and agribusinesses across a wide geographic footprint, from Northern New South Wales to Far North Queensland. The company is now recognized as the largest independent agronomic service provider to the Australian sugar industry, supporting sustainable productivity and long-term soil health through science-based, field-proven practices.

Shoplazza Awards Mark Fourth Year as Merchants Shift Toward AI-Driven, Sustainable Growth, Spotlighted on the Nasdaq Tower in Times Square

NEW YORK, Feb. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Shoplazza recently announced the winners of the 2025 Shoplazza Awards at Times Square in New York City, marking the program’s fourth year. In partnership with PR Newswire, the campaign communication partner, the annual recognition honors merchants and ecosystem partners for building distinctive brands and resilient operations that support long-term growth across markets.

the winners of the 2025 Shoplazza Awards announced on the Nasdaq Tower
the winners of the 2025 Shoplazza Awards announced on the Nasdaq Tower

Beyond performance outcomes, the awards also recognize a shift in how leading merchants operate. As online stores become central to day-to-day business activity, this year’s recipients stand out for investing earlier in site optimization, localization, and customer relationships, moving from isolated improvements to integrated infrastructure.

Merchant Award Winners Demonstrate Scalable Online Store Growth

Supported by Shoplazza’s global commerce platform capabilities, including flexible page building, multi-site management, localized payments, global logistics integrations, and data-driven operations, the 2025 merchant award recipients show how coordinated commerce capabilities are applied in real-world, multi-market environments.

This year’s recipients span consumer electronics, smart mobility, fashion and lifestyle, baby and home, and premium materials. While operating at different stages of global expansion, they share a common approach: using a unified commerce system to scale bold products and reinforce clear brand positioning without increasing operational complexity.

In technology and hardware categories, this year’s winners demonstrated how global expansion is shifting from supply-driven exports to brand-led execution.

  • GMKtec operates in the Mini PC and AI supercomputing segment. Founded in 2019, the company has expanded into more than 70 countries, establishing a scalable global footprint supported by consistent direct-to-consumer operations.
  • SAFNIX focuses on modular portable power solutions. Evolving from a manufacturing-led business, the brand has successfully entered the North American market by pairing product engineering with localized commerce execution.

In fashion, lifestyle, and mobility categories, recognized merchants highlighted how brand differentiation increasingly depends on direct customer relationships and execution depth.

  • ICOICE is a global colored contact lens brand and a two-time Shoplazza Awards recipient. By aligning fast-fashion responsiveness with a direct-to-consumer operating model, ICOICE continues to expand internationally while maintaining strong repeat purchase performance.
  • KuKirin competes in the high-ticket e-bike category. Built on a highly responsive supply chain, the brand uses direct commerce supported by integrated payments and logistics to operate effectively in a fulfillment-intensive market.

In specialized, emotionally driven segments, long-term product investment and trust-building proved central to scalability.

  • Babeside operates in the reborn doll category, a niche segment with high barriers to entry. Through proprietary product development and disciplined brand execution, the company has built a trusted customer base across international markets.
  • Real Silk Life focuses on premium lifestyle products made from high-quality natural materials. Emphasizing material integrity, craftsmanship, and long-term comfort, the brand has developed a recognizable positioning while expanding its presence in global markets.

Partner Awards Spotlight the Systems Behind Reliable Growth

The Shoplazza Awards also recognize ecosystem partners whose capabilities support execution across marketing, payments, and logistics, functions that increasingly determine conversion, retention, and operational stability in global commerce.

In marketing and user growth, partners are helping brands move beyond traffic acquisition toward sustainable customer relationships. MambaSMS focuses on lifecycle communication through high-deliverability messaging and automated engagement. TidalFlow connects content-driven platforms such as TikTok with commerce operations, translating attention into repeatable growth. TuopuTech brings a data-led approach, helping merchants optimize site experience, user behavior, and advertising efficiency.

In payments, partners address one of the most critical points in eCommerce: transaction reliability and trust. Checkout.com supports high-volume, multi-market operations with enterprise-grade acquiring capabilities. PayPal contributes global consumer trust and broad market coverage, reducing friction at checkout. WINTOPAY complements this layer with multi-channel acquiring and tiered risk management, helping merchants balance growth with security.

In logistics and fulfillment, partners are working to make global delivery more predictable and scalable. Cainiao provides end-to-end global logistics infrastructure, integrating international transport with last-mile delivery. ShipSaving emphasizes automation and cost efficiency, simplifying shipping workflows for merchants. YunExpress adds deep global delivery expertise, supporting merchants at different stages of international expansion.

AI Innovator Awards Highlight Commercialized AI Adoption

As artificial intelligence moves from exploratory use cases into core business operations, the 2025 Shoplazza Awards introduced the AI Innovator category to recognize organizations embedding AI into revenue-critical workflows with measurable outcomes.

  • Sandwich Lab operates in AI-driven content and marketing. By combining generative capabilities with clear commercialization paths, the company has translated AI technology into scalable global revenue.
  • Stripe develops global payment infrastructure and API platforms. Its continued integration of AI across payments, billing, and risk management supports high-volume commerce operations and platform-scale business models.
  • Subotiz focuses on AI-driven subscription and payment infrastructure for AI SaaS and digital businesses. Through its Merchant of Record model systems, Subotiz supports more predictable revenue operations across global markets.

A Four-Year Record of Execution-First Growth

Over four years, the Shoplazza Awards have documented an evolution in global commerce priorities, from growth experimentation to execution certainty, from isolated tools to integrated systems, and from short-term scale to durable operating capability.

“Across four years, the Shoplazza Awards have become less about recognition and more about record,” said Jeff Li, Founder and CEO of Shoplazza. “They capture how merchants are adapting to structural change and building systems that can support long-term, AI-enabled growth.”

By continuing to invest in platform reliability, AI-enabled workflows, and ecosystem collaboration, Shoplazza aims to lower the operational barriers to global commerce and support merchants building resilient, long-term businesses.

About Shoplazza

Shoplazza is a leading Canadian AI commerce platform that enables global businesses to build, launch, and scale their online stores. Built on an agentic commerce framework, Shoplazza applies AI agents across end-to-end commerce workflows to streamline execution and support sustainable growth across online, in-store, and social channels. Learn more at https://www.shoplazza.com/.

Swiss Bear Honours Food Operators and Delivery Riders This Ramadan

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Feb. 5, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — This Ramadan, Swiss Bear is recognising food operators and delivery riders across Kuala Lumpur for their essential role in ensuring Iftar meals reach families and communities each evening. Swiss Bear is a food solutions brand under Kerry Group that provides sauces and dressings.

This Ramadan, food riders will enjoy free meals as they break fast at participating locations in Kuala Lumpur.
This Ramadan, food riders will enjoy free meals as they break fast at participating locations in Kuala Lumpur.

As Muslims observe the holy month of prayer, fasting, and reflection, many food operators continue preparing dishes through sunset while delivery riders often break fast on the move to ensure timely deliveries.

In appreciation of their dedication, Swiss Bear, in partnership with selected food operators, will distribute complimentary meals to food riders at participating locations. These locations will also serve as designated spaces where delivery riders can break fast comfortably while collecting orders.

The public is encouraged to support the initiative through the following activities:

  • Purchase meals from partner operators prepared using Swiss Bear sauces.
  • Follow Swiss Bear’s Facebook and Instagram to track the donation counter and the growing number of dishes contributed.
  • Visit Swiss Bear’s participating locations and leave messages to encourage community involvement.
  • Engage with campaign content across Swiss Bear’s social media platforms, which will include videos, recipe features, and live streams.
  • Participate in the Shopee Raya Bundle promotion, where every purchase made from now until 15 March contributes to the final number of dishes donated.

For more than 25 years, Swiss Bear has provided convenient, high-quality food solutions that support chefs and food businesses in delivering consistent, flavourful dishes. This Ramadan initiative reflects Swiss Bear’s ongoing commitment to community appreciation and shared responsibility, recognising the people who help make every Iftar possible.