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ONYX Hospitality Group named Seventh Best Place to Work in Asia-Pacific for 2025

The Group was also ranked third in Thailand under the international “Best Place to Work in Thailand 2025” certification, reinforcing ONYX’s commitment to sustainable people management and a strong corporate culture.


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OuReach Newswire – 30 January 2026 – ONYX Hospitality Group has been recognised as the seventh Best Place to Work in the Asia-Pacific region for 2025, awarded by Best Places to Work, an internationally recognised organisation specialising in workplace assessment and employee experience benchmarking. The recognition reflects the Group’s people-centric workplace practices and a culture that places equal emphasis on employee development and service excellence, and is further reinforced by ONYX’s third-place ranking in Thailand under the “Best Place to Work in Thailand 2025” certification, highlighting the Group’s long-standing focus on sustainable people management and a strong, values-driven corporate culture.

ONYX Hospitality Group named Seventh Best Place to Work in Asia-Pacific for 2025

With a diverse portfolio spanning hotels, resorts, serviced apartments, and luxury residences under well-established brands including Amari, OZO, Shama, and Oriental Residence, ONYX Hospitality Group continues to strengthen its position across key strategic markets in the region. As the Group approaches its 60th anniversary in 2026, these accolades further highlight ONYX’s long-standing commitment to building a resilient organisation powered by engaged and capable people.

The “Best Places to Work” certification is an internationally recognised programme that benchmarks organisational excellence in human resource practices and employee engagement. Certification is awarded through a comprehensive evaluation covering employee engagement, employee experience, and the effectiveness of HR policies and practices. In this year’s assessment, ONYX Hospitality Group demonstrated strong performance across multiple dimensions, including a supportive work environment, an open and inclusive corporate culture, and a people development strategy closely aligned with the Group’s regional business direction.

One of the key pillars supporting ONYX’s evolution as a trusted workplace is ONYX Academy, the Group’s comprehensive learning and development institute. ONYX Academy delivers structured programmes spanning foundational skills training, advanced role-specific competency development, and clearly defined career pathways for employees at all levels. By prioritising both future-ready capabilities and practical, applicable skills, the Academy equips team members for sustainable personal and professional growth.

The effectiveness of ONYX Academy has also been recognised at an industry level through multiple honours at the EXA: Employee Experience Awards 2025, including awards for the General Manager Development Programme (GM Track), the NextYou Initiative, the HR Leadership Enhancement Programme, and the Group’s ESG initiatives. These accolades further underscore ONYX Hospitality Group’s long-term and focused commitment to meaningful employee development.

Alongside capability building, ONYX Hospitality Group continues to foster a corporate culture rooted in openness and dynamism, encouraging employees to think creatively, experiment, and contribute new ideas. The Group actively supports agility and adaptability by creating space for diverse voices across the organisation. Employee well-being is also prioritised through the ONYX Cares programme, which holistically supports physical and mental health, relationships, and team engagement—contributing to a work environment that nurtures both individual fulfilment and organisational growth.

Saranya Watanasirisuk, Senior Vice President, Corporate Human Resources, commented: “At ONYX Hospitality Group, we believes that our people are the foundation for delivering exceptional experiences and service. Our success in human resource management is driven by strong leadership support at every level, enabling employees to grow across all dimensions. This commitment spans from recruitment and holistic learning systems to cultivating an environment that encourages creativity, experimentation, and the full expression of individual potential. These efforts have positioned ONYX not only as an employer of choice, but also as an organisation trusted by partners and guests alike.”

Receiving the “Best Place to Work” Certification at both national and regional levels marks another significant milestone for ONYX Hospitality Group. The achievement reinforces its commitment not only to being a regional leader in hospitality management, but also to being an organisation that genuinely values its people.

Looking ahead, ONYX remains dedicated to continuously enhancing the workplace environment and delivering meaningful employee experiences that support long-term growth and sustained competitiveness.

For more information about ONYX Hospitality Group, please visit www.onyx-hospitality.com.

Hashtag: #ONYXHospitalityGroup



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

About ONYX Hospitality Group:

ONYX Hospitality Group, a reputable force in Southeast Asia’s hospitality industry, operates a collection of comprehensive yet complementary brands – Amari, OZO, Shama and Oriental Residence – catering to the distinctive needs of discerning business and leisure travellers in Southeast Asia where their expertise lies. In addition to its brand portfolio, ONYX Hospitality Group also operates additional hospitality services across spa and food and beverage. With over five decades of management experience, the company extends its innovative solutions throughout the region, upholding internationally recognised standards and ensuring optimal operational manoeuvrability. By fostering enduring relationships with like-minded business partners, ONYX Hospitality Group delivers unparalleled experiences in a dynamic and competitive market, meeting the ever-evolving demands of travellers.

More information:

Champasak Authorities Rescue Pangolins Seized from Passenger Bus

The Department of Agriculture and Environment, working with the Department of Natural Resources and Environment and other relevant agencies, released the pangolins into Dong Hua Sao National Park. (Picture by Champamai Newspaper)

Authorities in Champasak Province have rescued and released several pangolins after discovering the protected animals concealed on a passenger bus in Sanasomboun District.

Officials found four live pangolins on 25 January during a routine inspection at Checkpoint 44. The animals were hidden inside sacks on a passenger bus traveling from Attapeu to Vientiane Capital via Pakse.

After seizing the animals, provincial officials monitored their condition and confirmed they were healthy and fit for release. 

On 28 January, the Department of Agriculture and Environment, working with the Department of Natural Resources and Environment and other relevant agencies, released the pangolins into Dong Hua Sao National Park.

Earlier this month, authorities carried out a similar rescue after a Pakse resident voluntarily handed over a Sunda pangolin weighing about two kilograms on 15 January. Officials released the animal into Dong Hua Sao National Park on 17 January after confirming its health.

Pangolins are protected under Lao law and are among the world’s most trafficked mammals, driven by illegal demand for their scales and meat. 

Provincial authorities said the rescues and releases were conducted in line with the amended Wildlife Law and form part of ongoing efforts to combat wildlife trafficking, protect biodiversity, and strengthen conservation enforcement.

In a separate wildlife enforcement case, Lao authorities also seized nearly 50 kilograms of illegal wildlife products in Luang Prabang Province and Vientiane Capital in December, following inspections of shops, restaurants, and other suspected trade locations. 

Officials said the operation targeted wildlife trafficking networks and reflected broader national efforts to curb illegal trade and protect endangered species.

Celebrate the New Year of the Horse with Tan Jianci’s Wax Figure Debuting at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong to make your wishes come true


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 January 2026 – Madame Tussauds Hong Kong welcomes the wax figure of all-round entertainer Tan Jianci, launching a nearly three-month-long limited tour from today until 12 April 2026. Tan Jianci wax figure will greet everyone in the “Hong Kong Glamorous” zone, exquisitely presented in a classic black suit, ready to interact with visitors and adding a touch of star-studded brilliance to the upcoming Spring festival.

Celebrate the New Year of the Horse with Tan Jianci’s Wax Figure
Celebrate the New Year of the Horse with Tan Jianci’s Wax Figure

From Stage to Screen: A Journey of Multi-Directional Development

Hailed as a “Hexagonal Warrior” for his all-around prowess, Tan Jianci has delivered eye-catching performances across multiple fields. In film and television, from the calm portraitist Shen Yi in “Under the Skin” to the impressive and stunning dual roles of Xiang Liu and Fangfeng Bei in “Lost You Forever,” he has won widespread acclaim for his nuanced and powerful acting. In 2025, his roles in the film “I Miss You” and the TV series “Under the Skin 2” earned him dual nominations for Best Actor at the Macau International Film Festival’s Golden Lotus Awards, making him the first actor ever to achieve simultaneous nominations in both film and television categories at the same ceremony.

Meanwhile, Tan Jianci has achieved remarkable success in music. His personal albums, such as “DREAMS” and “HUAN,” showcase his depth and diversity as a creator. His single “Bad Monalisa” not only dominated major charts but also won “Annual Chinese Digital Single” at the 2025 TMEA Awards, where he himself was awarded “Annual Best All-Round Singer.” At the end of 2025, the two lead singles, “PROOF” and “DEAD REFLEX,” from his third album rapidly topped daily charts on multiple music platforms upon release, once again proving his powerful appeal in music.

Furthermore, Tan Jianci actively shines in variety shows and the fashion world. In 2025, he graced the covers of three major mainstream women’s fashion magazines—”ELLE,” “Harper’s Bazaar,” and “Marie Claire”—becoming the first male celebrity that year to achieve covers on all three of these top five publications. Notably, the sales for his “ELLE” New Year issue broke industry records, showcasing his strong commercial value and fashion influence.

Tan Jianci Wax Figure Limited-Time Tour: An Immersive Star-Studded Experience

Tan Jianci’s wax figure now resides in the “Hong Kong Glamorous” zone. Dressed in a classic black suit, the figure’s highly accurate facial features and meticulous details showcase masterful craftsmanship, earning it the affectionate nickname “God of Unfiltered Photos” from fans. Running from 30 January to 12 April 2026, this nearly three-month exhibition allows visitors not only to take close-up photos with the figure but also to engage with interactive installations in the zone. The charm of Tan Jianci’s diverse talents across film, music, and fashion offers visitors a dreamy moment of being “in the frame with their idol” and embarking on a personalised star-studded journey.

Madame Tussauds Hong Kong warmly invites visitors to participate in the “Celebrate the New Year with Tan Jianci” engagement game. From 9 February to 23 February 2026, fans are encouraged to share their own creative photos or videos with Tan Jianci’s wax figure on social media. Participants should tag Tan Jianci and the official accounts of Madame Tussauds Hong Kong and include the hashtags #MeetMoreInTheNewYear and #MadameTussaudsHongKong.The most creative participants will have the chance to win a mystery gift. Welcome to The Peak to capture a unique interactive moment with Tan Jianci wax figure.

Exclusive New Year Surprises Unlocked: Multiple Perks for Festive Joy

In celebration of the New Year, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong is launching a variety of exclusive offers. From 13 February to 23 February 2026, all paid guests will receive a “Mystery Red Packet,” which contains a randomly selected mini card of a celebrity wax figure from Madame Tussauds Hong Kong—each card is a unique collectible. The attraction will also feature the “Year of the Horse Wishing Tree,” where visitors can write down their wishes for the new year, hoping that all their wishes will come true.

To further enhance the festive vibe, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong introduces a limited package—enjoy admission to Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, plus a VR experience and a selected beverage to elevate your immersive visit while sipping on a delightful drink. Adult package prices have been reduced from HKD 370 to just HKD 285.

Combo Ticket Details: Experience The Peak for HKD 390

Madame Tussauds Hong Kong is reintroducing Peak Tram combos (2-in-1 and 3-in-1) at attractive package prices for more surprises and value. From now on, visitors can purchase the following combo tickets at valued rates on the official website:

Combo Ticket Type Guest Category Price (HKD)
3-in-1 Combo

( Madame Tussauds Hong Kong Ticket + Peak Tram Return Ticket + Sky Terrace Ticket)

Adult 390
Child / Senior (65+) 320
Under 2 FREE
2-in-1 Combo

( Madame Tussauds Hong Kong Ticket + Peak Tram Return Ticket)

Adult 335
Child / Senior (65+) 290
Under 2 FREE
3-in-1 Morning Combo Adult 380
Child / Senior (65+) 310
Under 2 FREE
2-in-1 Morning Combo Adult 325
Child / Senior (65+) 275
Under 2 FREE
Limited Package

( Madame Tussauds Hong Kong Ticket + VR Experience + selected beverage)

Adult 285
Child / Senior (65+) 250

Visitors from around the world are invited to celebrate the New Year at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, capturing unforgettable photos and creating cherished memories with Tan Jianci and more other star figures. Join the festivities and make this celebration special.
Hashtag: #MadameTussaudsHongKong #MeetMoreInTheNewYear

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

About Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds has been inviting people to walk the red carpet and get closer to the revered for over 250 years. With 17 Merlin-operated attractions in the world’s top destination cities, we are dedicated to giving millions of visitors the opportunity to mingle with the mighty from A-listers to music legends, heroes of sport, to world leaders. Today, we continue to partner with the global icons of a generation to create astonishing lifelike figures from sittings and offer exciting and interactive experiences to ensure guests have never felt closer to fame.

About Merlin Entertainments

Merlin Entertainments is a world leader in branded entertainment destinations, offering a diverse portfolio of resort theme parks, city-centre gateway attractions and LEGOLAND® Resorts which span across the UK, US, Western Europe, China and Asia Pacific. Dedicated to creating experiences that inspire joy and connection, Merlin welcomes more than 62 million guests annually to its diverse global estate in over 20 countries. An expert in bringing world-famous entertainment brands to life, Merlin works with partners including the LEGO® Group, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Peppa Pig, DreamWorks and Ferrari to create destinations where guests can immerse themselves in a wide array of brand-driven worlds, rides and uplifting learning experiences.

See for more information.

SCOPE’s Ultra-Luxury Residential Performance Underscores Strong Investor Confidence in Thailand’s Prime Market


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 January 2026 – Amid heightened volatility across global luxury real estate markets driven by geopolitical tensions, trade policy uncertainty, and persistent inflationary pressures, Thailand’s ultra-luxury residential sector continues to demonstrate notable resilience. Within this context, SCOPE, a Bangkok-based ultra-luxury residential developer, reported total sales exceeding THB 2.6 billion in 2025, underscoring sustained confidence from high-net-worth individuals and international investors.

SCOPE Langsuan
SCOPE Langsuan

Despite global headwinds including escalating trade disputes, rising commodity prices, and shifting monetary policies, Thailand’s prime residential market remains structurally strong. Bangkok, in particular, continues to attract foreign buyers seeking long-term residential assets that combine lifestyle quality with capital stability. Demand in this segment has been driven less by short-term speculation, and more by purchasers prioritizing quality, identity, and long-term livability.

Value Proposition in a Global Context
One of the defining strengths of Thailand’s ultra-luxury market lies in its compelling value proposition when compared to global gateway cities such as London, New York, Tokyo, or Hong Kong. Prime residences in Bangkok remain significantly more accessible in terms of price, while offering comparable and in some cases superior, standards of design, space, and lifestyle.

Performance-Driven Luxury Development
SCOPE’s 2025 performance provides a clear illustration of how well-executed ultra-luxury developments can outperform broader market trends. Despite a general slowdown in Thailand’s property market, the company achieved over THB 2.6 billion in annual sales, reflecting consistent demand within the ultra-luxury segment.

Commenting on the market outlook, Mr. Yongyutt Chaipromprasith, Chief Executive Officer of SCOPE Company Limited, said: “Thailand offers exceptional value when compared with global cities, not only in pricing but also in quality of life, project standards, and long-term livability. Many international investors view Thai ultra-luxury residences as a safe haven asset, supported by competitive rental yields, lower holding costs, and a lifestyle proposition that few markets can replicate.”

Among its flagship developments, SCOPE Langsuan recorded over 90% sales completion within 2025, reflecting strong demand from discerning buyers. The project’s success highlights a clear shift in buyer behavior: ultra-luxury purchasers are increasingly focused on authenticity, design integrity, and long-term residential value rather than speculative gains.

Central to this appeal is SCOPE’s collaboration with internationally acclaimed designer Thomas Juul-Hansen, whose portfolio includes prominent residential development in New York, notably along the iconic “Millionaire’s Row.” By engaging designers of this caliber, SCOPE reinforces its role as a developer of globally competitive, non-replicable residential projects, rather than locally derivative offerings.

This approach further emphasizes the “value for money” proposition of Thailand’s luxury market. Achieving equivalent design pedigree and spatial quality in global financial capitals would require significantly higher development and acquisition costs.

Beyond Assets: Designing for Real Living
Beyond financial performance, SCOPE’s developments are conceived as long-term homes rather than transactional assets. The company’s development framework is anchored on three core pillars: Product Excellence, Lifestyle Integration, and World-Class Hospitality.

This philosophy guides every stage of development — from spatial planning and material selection to service design and community environments — ensuring that residences are built to support genuine, long-term living.

Elevating Living Through Hospitality
A defining component of SCOPE’s ultra-luxury positioning is its proprietary ACQUA Hospitality Service, designed from the perspective of real homeowners. The concept integrates five-star hotel service principles into everyday residential living, redefining luxury as thoughtful attention to detail that enhances quality of life.

From curated common spaces designed as well-being hubs, to personalized residential services and collaborations with world-class architects and designers, SCOPE aims to establish new benchmarks for service-driven, timeless luxury in Thailand’s residential market. This evolution reflects a broader industry shift from competing on physical specifications alone to competing on holistic living experiences.

Outlook: Thailand’s Luxury Market at a Turning Point
Bangkok continues to rank among the world’s leading lifestyle destinations, recognized for its blend of global connectivity, healthcare standards, infrastructure, and cultural vibrancy. These fundamentals support its growing role as both a primary residence base and an investment within Southeast Asia.

Looking ahead, Thailand’s ultra-luxury real estate market is transitioning from price-based competition toward differentiation driven by design excellence, development standards, service quality, and long-term livability. This shift strengthens the country’s positioning on the global stage and reinforces ultra-luxury residential assets as stable, long-term investments amid ongoing global uncertainty.

Hashtag: #Scope #Scopecollection



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

IIMAKER Speaks at 2026 Chongli Forum: Defining the “Soul” and “Threshold” of Game Content Creation in the AI-Native Era


CHONGLI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 January 2026 – The “2026 Chongli Forum” entered its core agenda today at the snow resort in northern China. As a high-profile annual thought leadership event in China’s technology and industrial innovation sector, this year’s forum, themed “New Orientation, New Establishment,” attracted numerous industry leaders including Yu Minhong, founder of New Oriental, Zhou Hongyi, founder of 360 Group, and Yang Guang, Chairman of the Alibaba Design Committee. They explored new trends, pathways, and paradigms under the sweeping wave of artificial intelligence. The forum focused on cutting-edge fields such as the digital economy, AI, green low-carbon development, and the ice-snow economy, aiming to build a cross-disciplinary hub for collaborative ideas.

IIMAKER

In the highly anticipated “Hardcore AI Hub” sub-forum, a roundtable discussion titled “AI×Everything: The Dreams and Experiments of a New Generation of Entrepreneurs” delved into how AI is reshaping the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Among the participants, Wei Tianrun, co-founder of IIMAKER – an innovative company specializing in AI-powered games and interactive content – shared his unique insights and practical experience on AI empowering the creative industry.

With the rapid development of Generative AI (AIGC) technology, the global gaming and interactive content industry is undergoing an unprecedented productivity revolution. From the automatic generation of characters and scenes to the batch production and precise delivery of marketing materials, AI is drastically reducing the marginal cost of content creation and distribution. Simultaneously, a core question is becoming increasingly prominent: As tools become ubiquitous, how can products avoid homogenization? How can enterprises build unique brand value and competitive barriers that transcend the technology itself? This is not only an issue for the gaming industry but also a “soul-searching” question that all AI-native application fields must confront.

Regarding the rise of “one-person companies,” Wei Tianrun pointed out that AI indeed significantly lowers the threshold from idea to execution, smoothing over the resource-intensive and highly specialized barriers inherent in traditional creation. For example, leveraging its AI toolchain, IIMAKER can compress the production cycle for marketing materials – which originally took weeks and required cross-team collaboration – down to just a few hours, while also enabling rapid localization of content for multiple global markets. However, he simultaneously emphasized that AI also raises new thresholds: Firstly, the threshold for deep insight and top-level design. AI can optimize click-through rates but cannot replace humans in understanding the subcultural emotions and unspoken needs of player communities. This demands stronger cultural sensitivity and sociological thinking from teams. Secondly, the new threshold of compliance and ethics. Issues like copyright and data security associated with AIGC require entrepreneurs to master an entirely new system of norms and regulations.

When discussing how to inject “soul” into AI-native products, Wei Tianrun elaborated on IIMAKER’s core philosophy – “Empowerment, Not Replacement.” He stated that all the company’s technological development serves one goal: to reduce technical friction and unleash creator potential, not to let AI dominate the creative process. “AI is the most powerful ‘brush’ in the creator’s hand, but the one holding the brush will always be the creator themselves.” IIMAKER strives to be the most trusted “first stop” and “spiritual home” for creators entering the AI-native creative era. Its brand distinction lies not in possessing any single, top-tier, isolated AI technology, but in its profound understanding and systematic empowerment of the entire “interactive content creation” process.

Addressing industry concerns that AIGC might lead to homogenization of community content, Wei Tianrun introduced IIMAKER’s “proactive shaping” strategy. The company encourages and protects truly original content imbued with a human soul through a multi-pronged approach: building an AI tool library containing diverse stylistic models, deliberately promoting innovative content within its algorithmic recommendations, establishing an anti-plagiarism content fingerprinting system, and setting up honor and economic incentive systems centered around “creative originality” and “emotional impact.” He emphasized that IIMAKER’s ultimate goal is to catalyze the “from 0 to 0.1” spark of original ideas, while using AI to efficiently solve the “from 1 to 100” problem of scaling.

Finally, Wei Tianrun offered a sincere reminder to young entrepreneurs in the AI field: the most easily underestimated cost is the “Alignment Cost” – namely, the cost of aligning with AI tool intent, the cost of connecting with real market value, and the management cost of internal team cognitive transformation. These are often (implicit) and substantial. Conversely, the part most irreplaceable by AI is precisely the ability to “Ask the Right Questions”discovering and defining those unmet, profound human needs and pain points will always be the most fundamental starting point for innovation.

Hashtag: #IIMAKER

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

About the Chongli Forum

The China Chongli Forum is a technology and industrial innovation dialogue platform grounded in real industry scenarios. Leveraging Chongli’s unique ice-snow ecology and open spaces, it gathers young entrepreneurs, technology enterprises, investment institutions, and cultural talents, aiming to promote cross-border collaboration and long-term value creation. This year’s agenda focused on cutting-edge areas such as the digital economy, artificial intelligence, and the green economy.

About IIMAKER

IIMAKER is an AI-powered game and interactive content company built on the core concept of “Maker.” With game publishing as its current business cornerstone, the company is dedicated to empowering UGC (User-Generated Content) communities through its self-developed AI toolchain, significantly enhancing the efficiency of content generation, asset production, and optimization. Its long-term vision is to build an AI-native interactive content platform that reduces the overall friction of turning imagination into reality, ultimately working towards a future where “everyone can make a world.”

“No Data, No Talk”: How Data Fundraising Is Redefining SME Growth in ASEAN

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 January 2026 – In an era where investors are more selective than ever, SMEs can no longer rely on vision, passion, or static pitch decks alone. The new rule of fundraising is clear: No Data, No Talk.

Participants of the Data Fundraising Masterclass gather on Day 3 of the programme in Kuala Lumpur, where SME owners presented investor-ready pitch decks built using CapitalOS, BizPal’s data-driven corporate finance platform.
Participants of the Data Fundraising Masterclass gather on Day 3 of the programme in Kuala Lumpur, where SME owners presented investor-ready pitch decks built using CapitalOS, BizPal’s data-driven corporate finance platform.


This message took centre stage at the
Data Fundraising Masterclass (12–14 December 2025) organised by BizPal by Simplyfi™, where close to 80 SME owners, founders, and senior leaders gathered to learn how technology, branding, and corporate finance must be integrated into a single, data-driven narrative to unlock capital and sustainable growth.

The three-day masterclass was designed to help SMEs move beyond siloed decision-making. Participants were guided through structuring their business models, identifying value drivers, and translating strategy into investor-ready financial narratives using CapitalOS — BizPal’s data-driven corporate finance platform that consolidates operational, strategic, and financial data into a coherent dashboard designed to speak the language of investors.

“I thank the team for their tireless preparation for the masterclass. Our mission is simple — SMEs should never walk into a funding conversation unsure of their numbers,” said Ms. Anya Tan, CEO of BizPal by Simplyfi™.

Rather than treating technology, brand, and finance as separate initiatives, CapitalOS demonstrated how these elements work together to form one credible, measurable story of enterprise value.

Technology as a Measurable Growth Strategy
As part of the programme, guest speaker Mr. Chris Teng, Sales Director of FSBM Holdings Berhad, shared insights on the role of technology in enterprise scalability.

“Every business today needs a clear technology blueprint — not just to operate efficiently, but to attract investors. Technology is the foundation of scalability. When you can demonstrate how your tech investments drive data, efficiency, and market access, your enterprise value naturally grows.”

This session reinforced a core principle of data fundraising: technology only creates value when it produces measurable outcomes. Within CapitalOS, participants learned how technology investments can be translated into operational metrics and long-term financial impact — moving technology from a backend function to a valuation driver.

Turning Brand and IP into Recognised Assets
In another session, Mr. Tee Lin Yik, CEO and Co-founder of Tee IP Sdn Bhd, addressed the growing importance of brand and intellectual property (IP) valuation in fundraising.

“Your marketing, design, and digital assets are not just expenses — they represent intangible value. When structured properly, these can be recognised as brand assets, contributing directly to enterprise valuation.”
Participants explored how branding and IP, when properly documented and governed, can be captured within CapitalOS as value-creating assets, strengthening credibility during fundraising discussions and due diligence.

Finance, Governance, and the Investor Lens
Concluding Day 2, Mr. Dylan Woon, Director of Sparta Haus, highlighted the importance of live data, governance, and transparency from an investor’s perspective.

“In the modern business environment, static reports are no longer enough. Investors expect live dashboards and clear governance trails. Platforms like CapitalOS help SMEs manage and present their data dynamically — aligning business strategy with financial credibility.”

Through guided exercises, participants learned to view their businesses from an investor’s lens — understanding how data consistency, governance discipline, and financial clarity directly influence valuation and funding decisions.

From Learning to Real Conversations
Beyond theory, the programme delivered tangible outcomes. Participants were guided to develop investor-ready pitch decks using AI-assisted tools, with many completing their decks during the three-day programme.

Several selected participants presented their pitch decks to investors and judging panelists on Day 3, leading to follow-up discussions and early expressions of interest.

Soft Launch of Global Mentorship Exchange (GMx)
Wrapping up Day 3 of the Data Fundraising Masterclass, BizPal also announced the soft launch of the Global Mentorship Exchange (GMx), a strategic ecosystem initiative designed to complement CapitalOS by connecting experienced business leaders with high-potential entrepreneurs.

BizPal Head of Innovation, Wayne, announcing the soft launch of the Global Mentorship Exchange (GMx) alongside Dato’ Jacky of Asia Success Media Group during Day 3 of the Data Fundraising Masterclass in Kuala Lumpur.
BizPal Head of Innovation, Wayne, announcing the soft launch of the Global Mentorship Exchange (GMx) alongside Dato’ Jacky of Asia Success Media Group during Day 3 of the Data Fundraising Masterclass in Kuala Lumpur.

The initiative is built on a central premise: the greatest untapped resource in business is experience. GMx aims to make this experience more accessible by providing a structured platform where mentors, entrepreneurs, and investors can engage through data-backed evaluation, technology-enabled assessment, and transparent benchmarking.

GMx is positioned as a global exchange where experienced founders and industry leaders support emerging businesses not only through guidance, but through measurable insights aligned with investor expectations. By integrating mentorship with structured evaluation frameworks, GMx seeks to help high-potential SMEs gain visibility, credibility, and readiness for the global stage.

According to the organisers, the soft launch marks the first phase of a broader effort to formalise mentorship, recognition, and capital access into a single ecosystem — enabling experience, data, and technology to work together in supporting sustainable enterprise growth.

Validated by Participants
The impact of the masterclass was reflected in post-programme feedback:

  • Over 80% of respondents rated their likelihood to recommend the programme 8–10 on the Net Promoter Score (NPS) scale
  • Participants rated the programme an average of 4.52 out of 5 stars for value received relative to investment
  • The results highlight strong validation from SME owners on the programme’s relevance, practicality, and return on learning

Beyond the Masterclass
To ensure continuity and execution beyond the workshop, all participants have been invited to an upcoming online coaching session, where they will further strengthen their teams’ hands-on capability in using CapitalOS.
For SMEs interested in joining future cohorts, BizPal by Simplyfi™ is accepting early expressions of interest for upcoming Data Fundraising programmes in 2026.

Interested businesses can:
– Register interest for 2026 programmes: support@bizpal.tech
– Schedule a complimentary CapitalOS consultation: sales@bizpal.tech

One System, One Story
The masterclass demonstrated a clear framework:

  • Technology generates data
  • Brand amplifies enterprise value
  • Corporate finance translates strategy into investor language

CapitalOS ties these elements together, enabling SMEs to move from intuition-led decision-making to data-backed, investor-ready positioning.

Through its CapitalOS methodology, BizPal by Simplyfi™ is helping canvASEAN SMEs transition from intuition-led decision-making to data-backed, investor-ready businesses — proving that in today’s capital market, the conversation begins with data, or it doesn’t begin at all.

Hashtag: #NoDataNoTalk #DataFundraising #InvestorReady #CapitalReadiness #FinTech #BusinessValuation #ASEANSMEs




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

About BizPal by Simplyfi™

BizPal by Simplyfi™ empowers ASEAN SMEs to become investor-ready through data-driven corporate finance solutions. Its flagship platform, CapitalOS, consolidates operational, strategic, and financial data into a unified system that speaks the language of investors. By integrating technology, brand, and finance into one measurable narrative, BizPal helps SMEs transition from intuition-led decision-making to data-backed growth strategies.

DFI Retail Group Celebrates Multiple Wins in YouGov’s Best Brands 2025 in Hong Kong

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 January 2026 – DFI Retail Group is delighted to have five of our brands recognised in YouGov’s Best Brands 2025 Hong Kong rankings, with leading positions across the General Retail and Loyalty Programme sectors. Each brand’s No. 1 ranking in its respective category further highlights the Group’s commitment to delivering trusted, high quality and customer-focused retail experiences to customers across Hong Kong.

DFI Retail Group Celebrates Multiple Wins in YouGov’s Best Brands 2025 in Hong Kong
DFI Retail Group Celebrates Multiple Wins in YouGov’s Best Brands 2025 in Hong Kong

Four of DFI’s well-known banners, Mannings, Wellcome, 7-Eleven and IKEA were featured in YouGov’s Top 10 General Retail Brands, demonstrating their strong brand health and long-standing consumer trust. In addition, the Group’s yuu Rewards, ranked No. 1 in the Loyalty Programmes category.

DFI brands also excelled across key retail categories:

  • WellcomeNo. 1 Grocery Retail & No. 1 in General Retail
  • ManningsNo. 1 Health & Beauty Stores & No. 3 in General Retail
  • 7-ElevenNo. 1 Convenience Stores & No. 8 in General Retail
  • IKEA No. 1 Home Furnishing Stores & No. 2 in General Retail
  • yuuNo. 1 Loyalty Programme
The rankings are based on thousands of interviews conducted across Hong Kong from 1 January to 31 December 2025, measuring six brand health metrics (impression, quality, value, satisfaction, reputation, and recommendation). These achievements reflect the strength and breadth of DFI portfolio across health and beauty, convenience, food, home furnishings and loyalty programme.

As a Group, DFI remains focused on elevating everyday living for customers by delivering products, services and experiences they can rely on. These strong YouGov rankings demonstrate the meaningful connection DFI brands have built with the Hong Kong community. Looking ahead, DFI will continue investing in innovation, digital engagement, store enhancement and loyalty programmes to support long-term, sustainable growth for the communities it serves.

Hashtag: #DFIRetailGroup#Mannings#7-Eleven#Wellcome#IKEA#yuu#YouGov

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

DFI Retail Group

DFI Retail Group (the ‘Group’) is a leading Asian retailer, driven by its purpose to “Sustainably Serve Asia for Generations with Everyday Moments”. At 1 Dec 2025, the Group and its associates operated over 7,400 outlets and employed over 81,000 people. The Group is dedicated to delivering quality, value and service to Asian consumers through a compelling retail experience, supported by an extensive store network and highly efficient supply chains. The Group, including associates, operates a portfolio of well-known brands across five key divisions: health and beauty, convenience, food, home furnishings and restaurants.

Multi-Award Winning Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach: Voted Top 3 Best Family Resort

PHUKET, Thailand, Jan. 30, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Recognized as the Top 3 in “Thailand’s Best Family Resorts” by readers of Holidays with Kids magazine, Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach solidifies its status as the ultimate family sanctuary for 2026. Located on the secluded Tri-Trang Beach just minutes from Patong, this multi-award-winning resort blends sustainable eco-adventures, world-class amenities, and 5-star relaxation to create a holiday experience that is truly second to none.

Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach - A family of three relaxes in a resort room with a view of the beach, featuring M Passport Family Package
Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach – A family of three relaxes in a resort room with a view of the beach, featuring M Passport Family Package

Experience the “Best Family Resort” Difference Celebrated by families worldwide, the resort has been honored as a Top 3 winner in Holidays with Kids magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards for Thailand’s Best Family Resorts. Combined with consistent top-tier ratings on TripAdvisor, “Trip.Best” No.1 Family Resort in Phuket. Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach is a destination designed for connection. The resort sits on its own private stretch of white sand, surrounded by lush jungle and a protected house reef, offering families a unique “resort-within-a-resort” atmosphere where nature and luxury meet.

Why Families Choose an Award-Winning Stay Our commitment to creating the best family experience is evident in our diverse, high-quality amenities that cater to every generation:

  • Kids Club and Splash Zone:Kids Club alongside our exhilarating Splash Zone mini-water park with three landscaped pools and a splash pad.
  • Education Meets Adventure: We turn vacations into learning opportunities at our on-site Merlin House ReefEducation Center. Families can snorkel directly from the beach and learn about marine conservation, or visit our unique Butterfly Sanctuary to observe native species in the wild.
  • Dining for Everyone: With 10 diverse restaurants and bars, including the Japanese favorite Kanpai, the authentic Chang Thai, and the seaside Beach Grill, we ensure every palate is pleased.

Featured Package: To celebrate our status as a top family destination, we invite you to book the M Passport Package, designed to spark joy and curiosity in our youngest guests:

  • M Passport Pack: A special activity passport for children to explore the resort, complete challenges, and earn exclusive rewards.
  • Kids Eat Free: Children under 12 enjoy complimentary meals from the kids’ menu (up to 2 children per room, when accompanied by a dining adult).
  • Daily Breakfast: Delicious international buffet breakfast for 2 adults and 2 children.
  • Special Amenities: Kid’s Theme room decoration, Exclusive welcome gift for kids and child-friendly in-room amenities.
  • Inspiring Activities: Access to educational and fun activities at the Kids Club and Reef Education Center.

Book Your 2026 Adventure Today Discover why critics and guests alike call us the Best Family Resort in Phuket.

For reservations our exclusive deal M Passport Package
For more information please visit our website Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach

Aerial view of Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach, showcasing its expansive beachfront property with lush greenery, multiple swimming pools, and solar panel-equipped buildings along the turquoise coastline
Aerial view of Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach, showcasing its expansive beachfront property with lush greenery, multiple swimming pools, and solar panel-equipped buildings along the turquoise coastline