SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 January 2025 – As the clock ticked down the last few hours of 2024, Sentosa Beach in Singapore came alive with excitement. When the voice of Ye Xiu, the beloved character from The King’s Avatar, echoed across the sandy shores, cheers erupted from the crowd. Stepping into the role of the “specially invited host” for YUEWEN Music Festival, Ye Xiu led global fans in a unique celebration of New Year’s Eve.
Yuewen
YUEWEN Music Festival assembled top-tier musicians from countries across the globe, including China, Singapore, South Korea, Japan, Thailand, and the Netherlands. They offered a kaleidoscope of performances across pop, hip-hop, and EDM genres, transforming the beach into a pulsating musical paradise that spanned three days.
What set this festival apart from the traditional ones was Yuewen’s ingenious way of weaving eight of its marquee IPs –Joy of Life, The King’s Avatar, Lord of Mysteries, Guardians of the Dafeng, Battle Through the Heavens, Dao of the Bizarre Immortal, Fox Spirit Matchmaker, and The Outcast – seamlessly into the fabric of the performances, as well as the dazzling fireworks display and the spellbinding drone show on New Year’s Eve. At the festival grounds, the IP visual installation known as the “Magic Cube” commanded attention, while the IP merchandise marketplace beckoned fans to explore. Notably, the latest merchandise offering from The King’s Avatar, the blind box series titled “Ye Xiu’s Daily Life”, proved to be a magnet for spectators.
On the third day of the festival, which coincided with New Year’s Eve, acclaimed musicians Akini Jing and WUKONG pulled out all the stops, crafting bespoke IP-infused performance programs. The tracks from The Outcast, Battle Through the Heavens, Fox Spirit Matchmaker, and The King’s Avatar were synchronized with the drone show, immersing the audience in a sensory symphony.
In a moment that sent shockwaves of euphoria through the crowd, DJ WUKONG dropped the remixed version of the theme song ofThe King’s Avatar, specially concocted for this occasion. The instant the familiar music filled the air, the beach was engulfed in a sea of cheers.
With Ye Xiu and the captivating IPs by their side, fans embarked on a journey through an unforgettable New Year’s Eve, one filled with music, magic, and memories.
In early 2024, the Yuewen Global IP Awards was held in Singapore, with Ye Xiu’s image adorning the city’s iconic landmarks. Over the past year, the iconic IP characters led by Ye Xiu have been making inroads into global cultural and tourism hotspots. Ye Xiu not only donned the hat of “Swiss Tourism Pathfinder” but also, through collaborations with world-class designers, found their way onto the hallowed grounds of the Eiffel Tower in France and other renowned landmarks, paving the way for a new era of IP globalization under the Yuewen banner. Hashtag: #Yuewen
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
A Ultimate Destination for Festive Activities to Ring in a Joyful and Prosperous Year with Family and Friends
MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 January 2025 – As the twelfth lunar month arrives, festive aromas fill the air, marking the approach of the Lunar New Year—China’s most significant traditional festival, now proudly recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This year, the vibrant fusion of Chinese and Western cultures makes celebrating the New Year in Macau, a UNESCO World Heritage city, an exceptional experience. Galaxy Macau™, a world-class luxury integrated resort, embraces this auspicious season with a host of spectacular New Year activities, transforming itself into a destination of boundless fortune, ready to welcome guests from near and far in the New Year with prosperity and Joy.
Step into Galaxy Macau, guests will find good fortune in every corner. From intricate peacock motifs symbolizing luck and prosperity to dazzling silver diamond performances and traditional Chinese knot decorations adorning every space, the resort exudes the joyous spirit of the Lunar New Year. Guests can enjoy a full spectrum of offerings—dining, accommodations, entertainment, shopping, and leisure—each thoughtfully designed to bring “Good Fortune in Every Turn”. Adding to the festive cheer, Galaxy Macau also presents grand Lunar New Year celebrations, art exhibitions, concerts and shows, opening the door to an auspicious start to the year ahead.
Galaxy Macau’s signature restaurants present festive delicacies that blend exquisite flavors with auspicious symbolism, thoughtfully creating “New Year blessings on every plate”.
Festive Delicacies: A Feast of Fortune
Galaxy Macau welcomes the Chinese New Year with a sumptuous array of festive dishes that bring good fortune to the table. Leading the lineup are two signature Poon Choi creations, symbolizing abundance and prosperity while showcasing the rich traditions of Chinese cuisine:
Hot & Spicy Poon Choi combines signature specialties from Galaxy Macau’s nine renowned Chinese restaurants, this dish includes fruitwood-roasted Peking duck, Shunde Lotus Root Cakes, Deep-fried Shrimp Mousse and Black Moss Roll, and Marinated Pork Tail, enhanced with a creative Sichuan spicy sauce. It embodies bold flavors and wishes for a vibrant New Year. Paying homage to the culinary heritage of traditional Hong Kong’s Yuen Long Walled Villages, Hong Kong Walled Village Poon Choi features luxurious ingredients like abalone, black moss, and dried oysters on the top layers, with poached chicken, braised pork, and moresoaking in rich broth beneath, symbolizing familial happiness and prosperity. Additionally, Wui Sik Fong at Broadway Macau introduces the Chinese New Year Poon Choi, crafted with 16 premium ingredients to convey wishes of abundance and prosperity for the New Year.
Celebrate an auspicious year with your loved ones, indulging in the Black Cane Sugar New Year Pudding and Chinese Turnip Cake, both symbolizing “soaring success”. The pudding is made with premium Japanese black sugar for a soft, fragrant treat, while the turnip cake blends fresh turnip with high-quality cured meats from renowned Macau brands.
Starting from January 27, Galaxy Macau’s signature restaurants will unveil a diverse selection of festive specialties. From indulgent set menus to à-la-carte dishes and exquisite dim sum, guests can enjoy creations from top culinary teams: Blossom Palaces presents Tossed Sea Whelk and Blackfoot Abalone in Superior Broth, pairing sea whelk slices with black gold abalone and caviar to symbolize smooth sailing and blessings; Pak Loh Chiu Chow Restaurant serves authentic celebratory dishes, including Steamed Spotted Grouper with Chiu Chow Plum Sauce, a delicacy with a perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Bei Shan Lou offers Stewed Assorted Seafood in Iron Pot, a hearty Northeastern-style stew combining oysters, abalone, scallops, and Australian lobster, creating a dish that evokes family togetherness and joy.
Japanese and Western dining options also embrace the festivities. Restaurants like Yamazato Japanese Fine Dining, Nagomi, Kyo Watami, Andaz Kitchen and Café de Paris Monte-Carlo introduce festive-inspired dishes and themed afternoon teas. Meanwhile, at StarWorld Hotel, the Michelin two-starred Feng Wei Ju delights spice lovers with Wok-fried Boston Lobster with Peppercorns and Chili and more, a bold creation symbolizing success and vitality.
From now until May 31, guests spending MOP800 or more with Visa at selected restaurants can enjoy an instant rebate of MOP150 and Food and Beverage vouchers worth up to MOP600.
Elevate the New Year celebrations with the elegance and richness of Chinese baijiu. On January 17, “Golden Serpent Brings Blessings · Guojiao 1573 Tasting Gala” Pop-up at Galaxy Macau will launch with an exclusive experiential space, featuring two limited-edition Lunar New Year baijiu offerings, available first in Macau. This unique space invites guests to explore the rich aroma and cultural heritage of Guojiao’s premium spirits.
Galaxy International Convention Center and Galaxy Arena will host a stellar lineup of international superstars and renowned groups, delivering spectacular and unforgettable performances to celebrate the Chinese New Year.
Top-Notch Performances: A Symphony of Fortune
This New Year begins on a high note with spectacular performances at Macau’s most anticipated new landmark for MICE and entertainment—Galaxy International Convention Center and Galaxy Arena. International superstars and acclaimed groups will take the stage, including the much-anticipated “Galaxy Music Gala: Lang Lang and Macao Orchestra”, “TF Family 2025 New Year Concert–Passion”, ” Jeff Chang Ultimate Continuum World Tour Concert in Macau, Chinese New Year Special “, and “TAEYANG 2025 TOUR [THE LIGHT YEAR] IN MACAU”. Adding to the festivities, the Broadway Theatre will host an array of diverse performances and musical events, each promising unique and memorable experiences.
A special event “Music Chamber Series: Young Award-Winning Musicians” will delight music lovers on January 19 from 12:30 to 13:30 at the Pearl Lobby. Talented young musicians, each one a master of their instrument, will offer their interpretation of timeless masterpieces, showcasing their passion for classical music.
The “Boom and Bloom Exhibition: A Journey of Wishes and Rebirth” brings together artistic talents from the Greater Bay Area, Celebrating Chinese New Year with blessings of prosperity and joy.
Explore Macau: Luck Awaits Around Every Corner
Celebrate the Lunar New Year at Galaxy Macau, where the entire family can enjoy the perfect blend of entertainment and leisure while embracing festive blessings. Visit Galaxy Art at 1/F Galaxy Promenade to explore the interactive “Boom and Bloom Exhibition: A Journey of Wishes and Rebirth”, featuring exclusive collaborations between popular artists Ray Chan’s “Shake Money Tree” and Sanchia Lau’s “Wishing Doll”. Families can also enjoy festive blockbusters at Galaxy Cinemas, or take little ones to Galaxy Kidz Edutainment Center, where they can revel in creative activities and workshops, and meet Wavey, the peacock mascot dressed in festive attire.
Wavey, the peacock mascot, dressed as the God of Fortune, brings exclusive New Year surprises for the little ones at Galaxy Macau.
Expand the Chinese New Year experience beyond Galaxy Macau to discover prosperity across the city. Those who enjoy city walks can explore “Symphony of Time and Space” Light Up Macau 2024, an enchanting immersive blend of light and shadow that transcends time. Meanwhile, the revitalized Lai Chi Vun Shipyards dazzles visitors with festive decorations and hosts a Spring Market with approximately 15 booths, open every weekend from January 18 to February 2 (including January 31), as well as Traditional Spring Festival Celebration activities from January 31 to February 2. From January 29 to February 8, visitors may also encounter the annual Macau highlight—Gigantic Golden Dragon Parade, the Parade for Celebration of the New Year and Chinese New Year Fireworks Displays, featuring vibrant float parades, cultural performances, and float displays, filling the streets with festive excitement and joy.
As the Spring Festival approaches, stay tuned for more auspicious and festive events to be revealed in mid-January. Join StarWorld Hotel, Galaxy Macau, and Broadway Macau in celebrating a prosperous and joyful Lunar New Year, ushering in waves of good luck for all!
For more details on these exciting experiences and exclusive offers, visit the official website of Galaxy Macau at www.galaxymacau.com, or follow Galaxy Macau on Facebook, Instagram, WeChat, Douyin, and Xiaohongshu. For reservations and inquiries, call +853 8883 2221.
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, 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.
Embark on a delightful and rewarding journey at Galaxy Promenade, the one-stop shopping destination boasting some of the world’s most iconic luxury brands. Be the first to get the latest limited-edition items; explore fascinating pop-ups by coveted labels and revel in fabulous shopping rewards and privileges. Our VIPs are entitled to a highly-curated experience with dedicated personal shoppers at guests’ service, and be invited to exclusive luxury brand events. A different caliber of privileges and rewards also await. Discover the joys of fashion and stand at the forefront of style and sophistication—Galaxy Promenade has everything guests need to stay ahead of the style game.
Galaxy Cinemas takes immersive movie experiences to the next level with the latest audio-visual technology, ultra-luxurious facilities and bespoke services; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind 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 Flavors & Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavors 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.
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM –Media OutReach Newswire – 7 January 2025 – The Best Places to Work organization is proud to announce the Top 25 Best Places to Work in Europe for 2024, recognizing the most outstanding employers who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to fostering positive, inclusive, and innovative work environments.
Leading the rankings this year is MSD, a global leader in the pharmaceutical industry, followed by PPD Global and Novo Nordisk, both of which have consistently prioritized employee well-being and development. These organizations have been recognized for creating workplaces where people are motivated to contribute to the company’s mission and goals.
In the rankings, other standout companies include Rebeldot, which leads the way in innovation and agility within the technology sector, and United Media Services, known for its people-centric approach to leadership and workplace culture. Takeda, Pluxee, and Dipharma also feature in the top spots for their forward-thinking employee policies and strong organizational values.
As part of its comprehensive evaluation, the Best Places to Work certification program assessed companies based on various criteria, including leadership effectiveness, employee engagement, workplace flexibility, and the promotion of diversity and inclusion. Companies on this list have excelled in creating environments that are not only productive but also nurturing, where employees feel supported, valued, and empowered to thrive.
The companies included in the Top 25 Best Places to Work in Europe for 2024 are as follows:
MSD
PPD Global
Novo Nordisk
Rebeldot
United Media Services
Takeda
Pluxee
Dipharma
RetuRo
Basware
Computacenter
Exness
Servier
Upp
Wisecom
Mladvisory
Forvis Mazars CEE
Olea Medical
Bossard
Mēness Aptieka
Konecta
Frime
Fortenova Grupa
Ruthmann
BlueLink
These companies represent the very best in creating an inspiring work environment that drives success and well-being for their employees. Through innovative approaches, these organizations not only prioritize the development of their teams but also contribute positively to the broader corporate culture across Europe.
Hashtag: #BestPlacesToWork
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Best Places to Work
Best Places to Work is an internationally recognized certification program that identifies leading companies based on a thorough evaluation of their workplace culture and employee engagement practices. This ranking reflects the collective commitment of these employers to creating environments where employees feel valued, heard, and motivated to achieve great things.
For more information on how organizations are shaping the future of work and driving positive employee experiences, visit www.bestplacestoworkfor.org.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 January 2025 – TESSAN, a global leader in travel charging solutions, has officially announced its collaboration with renowned American singer-songwriter Rachael Yamagata. As part of this collaboration, TESSAN has premiered an exclusive documentary on YouTube, offering an intimate look at Rachael’s artistic journey and philosophy. The film delves into her deeply personal reflections on music and life’s many journeys, unveiling untold creative stories and the ways in which she channels emotions into songwriting. Through this partnership, TESSAN and Rachael invite audiences to embrace the unknown, find meaning in movement, and redefine what it truly means to embark on a journey.
A Voice for the Journey, A Bridge to Connection
TESSAN chose Rachael Yamagata for this collaboration not just as a singer-songwriter, but as a living embodiment of the journey the brand celebrates—one of transformation, connection, and self-discovery. Her music is more than melody; it is a chronicle of movement—through places, emotions, and phases of life.
Like travel, Rachael’s artistry is driven by exploration and authenticity. Her songs capture the raw, unfiltered essence of human experience—love, loss, resilience—mirroring the very journey that shapes us all. She believes, as TESSAN does, that true connection is found in embracing the unknown, in stepping beyond comfort to discover something deeper—about the world, and about oneself.
A Deep-Dive Documentary: Exploring Music, Connection, and the Essence of Journey
This Documentary is a key milestone in TESSAN’s global campaign, “What’s Your Next Journey?”, which encourages people to embrace the unknown, seek new experiences, and forge deeper connections through travel and self-discovery.
A Story of Reflection, Growth, and Connection
This documentary captures Rachael Yamagata’s raw, unfiltered reflections on her personal and artistic journey, offering an intimate look at the experiences that have shaped her music. Through candid storytelling, she delves into:
The Meaning of “Journey” – How life’s transitions, uncertainties, and discoveries influence both her music and personal growth.
Music as a Universal Connector – The way songs create unspoken bonds between people, bridging emotions, cultures, and personal experiences.
The Power of Love – Her philosophy on being open, honest, and authentic—both as a Singer-songwriter and as a human navigating life’s highs and lows.
Finding Strength in Creativity – How art can serve as a tool for self-discovery, resilience, and empowerment, inspiring others to embrace their own journeys.
At its core, this documentary embodies TESSAN’s belief in connection—both physical and emotional. Just as TESSAN’s travel solutions enable people to stay connected no matter where they go, Rachael’s music creates emotional connections that transcend borders. Through the “What’s Your Next Journey?” campaign, TESSAN aims to inspire people to embark on their next adventure—whether that means traveling the world, chasing a dream, or rediscovering themselves. This alignment reinforces TESSAN’s brand identity as not just a provider of travel essentials, but as a brand that empowers and inspires exploration, self-discovery, and human connection.
Final Thoughts: The Power of Journeys and Connection
At its heart, “What’s Your Next Journey?” is a question about movement—not just across places, but through life itself. It is about the choices we make, the challenges we face, and the growth that comes with stepping into the unknown. This collaboration between TESSAN and Rachael Yamagata is a reflection of that idea. TESSAN helps people stay connected as they travel the world, while Rachael’s music captures the emotional journeys we all go through.
But beyond travel and music, this partnership speaks to something deeper—the power of connection. Journeys are not just about reaching a destination; they are about the people we meet, the experiences we share, and the moments that shape who we become. Whether through technology or art, the ability to connect—with others, with ourselves, and with the world around us—is what gives those journeys meaning.
So, what’s your next journey? Whether it’s an adventure into the unknown, a return to something familiar, or an inward reflection on where you’ve been and where you’re headed, this campaign serves as a reminder that every step matters, every connection shapes us, and every journey—no matter how big or small—is worth embracing.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Tessan
TESSAN is a global brand specializing in charging solutions for home and travel. Its main products include universal travel adapters,digital charging power strips , multifunctional wall outlets, EV charging stations and smart home devices. TESSAN lives by the mantra: “The Journey Begins at Home.” With a commitment to simplicity, efficiency, and safety, TESSAN products enhance connectivity and convenience for users worldwide, powering your journey from home to every destination.
SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 January 2025 – In today’s era of diversity, freedom, and a pursuit of high-quality living, recreational vehicles (RVs) have become the preferred choice for many seeking to explore the world and enjoy life. As a pioneer in creating the “mobile home” experience, New Gonow has leveraged its exceptional product capabilities, keen market insights, and strong innovation to gain widespread recognition not only in China’s domestic market but also on the global stage, showcasing remarkable competitiveness.
Now, New Gonow is set to reach a significant milestone in its journey—ringing the bell at the Hong Kong Stock Exchange for its IPO, officially becoming China’s first publicly listed RV company
According to the prospectus, New Gonow has maintained an average annual revenue growth rate of over 50% over the past three years, significantly outperforming the industry average. In the first half of 2024, despite uncertainties in the global economic environment, the company delivered an impressive net profit margin of nearly 10%.
This not only highlights New Gonow’s continuous improvement in profitability but also serves as strong evidence of its robust competitiveness and high market recognition within the industry.
As a homegrown Chinese manufacturer, New Gonow not only boasts advanced manufacturing technology and extensive production experience but also demonstrates keen market insight and an innovative growth strategy.
In its early years, the company leveraged strategic collaboration with a renowned Australian RV brand, effectively integrating the strengths of both China and Australia in resources, technology, and market presence. This synergy enabled New Gonow to stand out in the Australian and New Zealand markets, where it quickly rose to become the second-largest RV brand. Its market competitiveness and influence continue to grow steadily.
This experience in international collaboration and competition has not only provided New Gonow with valuable expertise but also validated its products in global markets. As a result, the company has progressively built the capability to compete with leading international brands.
As consumer demand for travel and lifestyle experiences becomes increasingly diverse, the concept that “buying an RV is buying a lifestyle” has deeply resonated with the market. New Gonow has keenly identified this trend and is committed to creating high-quality, personalized “mobile homes” for its customers.
The company offers a comprehensive product lineup, ranging from luxury to budget-friendly models and catering to various needs, from family vacations to solo adventures. This diverse portfolio ensures that New Gonow can meet the evolving preferences of different consumer groups, reinforcing its position as a leader in the industry.
New Gonow has consistently remained at the forefront of the industry in technological research and innovation. The company continues to increase its investment in R&D, focusing on enhancing vehicle performance, safety, and comfort.
From advanced smart control systems to energy-efficient and eco-friendly power technologies, from meticulously crafted interior designs to rugged and durable vehicle structures, New Gonow strives for excellence in every detail.
It is this relentless pursuit of technical superiority and quality that has fueled the company’s steady rise in the market. Moreover, it lays a solid foundation for future product upgrades and expansion into new markets, unlocking limitless opportunities for growth
New Gonow’s decision to pursue an IPO on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange marks a new chapter in its growth journey. By going public, the company will gain increased capital support to expand production capacity, strengthen R&D investment, broaden sales channels, and enhance brand influence.
Leveraging the power of the capital market, New Gonow is well-positioned to accelerate its domestic and international expansion, further solidifying its status as a leading player in the RV industry.
Hashtag: #NewGonow
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Representative from Laos and Vietnam attended the meeting about promote trade, industrial, energy cooperation. (Photo: Embassy of the Lao PDR in Hanoi)
On 3 January, the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Vietnam and the Lao Embassy in Vietnam agreed to continue coordinating closely to promote economic, trade, industrial, and energy cooperation between the two countries in Hanoi, Vietnam.
This image is used only for representational purpose (photo credit: Rawpixel)
In December 2024, China saw a rise in respiratory infections, particularly among children under 14, due to human metapneumovirus (HMPV), according to CBS News. However, despite the global uproar, experts say the virus is seasonal and under control, and it is unlikely to turn into a global pandemic.
People gather in an open area following earthquake tremors in Kathmandu, in the early hours on January 7, 2025. - A powerful earthquake in China's remote Tibet region killed at least 32 people and collapsed "many buildings" on January 7, Chinese media reported, with tremors also felt in neighbouring Nepal's capital Kathmandu and parts of India. (Photo by SUNIL SHARMA / AFP)
By Isabel KUA/AFP – A devastating earthquake in China’s remote Tibet region killed at least 53 people and collapsed “many buildings” on 7 January, state media reported, with tremors also felt in neighbouring Nepal’s capital Kathmandu and parts of India.
Videos published by China’s state broadcaster CCTV showed houses destroyed with walls torn apart.
Rescue workers waded through rubble strewn across the ruins in the aftermath of the earthquake, footage showed, while some gave locals thick blankets to keep warm.
Surveillance images published by CCTV showed people running through a store’s aisles as shelves shook violently, sending objects like toys tumbling to the ground.
In the town of Lhatse, videos geolocated by AFP showed debris scattered in front of streetside eateries.
The powerful quake struck Dingri county with a magnitude of 6.8 near the border with Nepal at 9:05 am (0105 GMT), according to the China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC). The US Geological Survey reported the tremor as magnitude 7.1.
“Fifty-three people have been confirmed dead and 62 injured as of Tuesday noon, after a 6.8-magnitude earthquake jolted Dingri County in the city of Xigaze in Xizang Autonomous Region at 9:05 am Tuesday,” Xinhua news agency said.
Over 1,000 houses have sustained varying degrees of damage, it added.
“Dingri county and its surrounding areas experienced very strong tremors, and many buildings near the epicentre have collapsed,” state broadcaster CCTV said.
Chinese President Xi Jinping on Tuesday emphasised “the full-scale search and rescue efforts, minimizing casualties to the greatest extent possible, properly resettling affected residents, and ensuring their safety and warmth through the winter”, CCTV added.
Xinhua said that “local authorities are reaching out to various townships in the county to assess the impact of the quake”.
Temperatures in Dingri are around minus 8 degrees Celsius (17.6 degrees Fahrenheit) and will drop to minus 18 this evening, according to the China Meteorological Administration.
Disaster relief aid, including cotton tents, quilts and items for high-altitude and frigid areas, had been dispatched by central authorities to areas impacted by the quake, Xinhua said.
The high-altitude county in the Tibet region is home to around 62,000 people and situated on the Chinese side of Mount Everest.
While earthquakes are common in the region, Tuesday’s quake was the most powerful recorded within a 200-kilometre radius in the last five years, the CENC added.
‘Shook quite strongly’
As well as Kathmandu, areas around Lobuche in Nepal in the high mountains near Everest were also rattled by the tremor and aftershocks.
“It shook quite strongly here, everyone is awake,” said government official Jagat Prasad Bhusal in Nepal’s Namche region, which lies nearer to Everest.
But no damage or deaths had been reported so far and security forces had been deployed, Nepali Home Minister spokesman Rishi Ram Tiwari said.
Nepal lies on a major geological faultline where the Indian tectonic plate pushes up into the Eurasian plate, forming the Himalayas, and earthquakes are a regular occurrence.
In 2015, nearly 9,000 people died and more than 22,000 were injured when a 7.8-magnitude quake struck Nepal, destroying more than half a million homes.
Some tremors were felt in Bihar state in India but no injuries were reported.
Three people were killed and dozens injured after a 7.0-magnitude earthquake struck along the mountainous China-Kyrgyzstan border in January last year.
A quake in December 2023 in northwest China killed 148 people and displaced thousands in Gansu province.
That quake was China’s deadliest since 2014, when more than 600 people were killed in southwestern Yunnan province.
In the December 2023 earthquake, subzero temperatures made the aid operation launched in response even more challenging, with survivors huddled around outdoor fires to keep warm.