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Prince Foundation Celebrates Graduation of Second Batch Students from the Prince Horology Vocational Training Center in Cambodia, Reflecting Chen Zhi’s Vision for Swiss Watchmaking Excellence


PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2024 – The Prince Horology Vocational Training Center, Cambodia’s premier horology institute, proudly announces the graduation of its second batch of students. The prestigious ceremony, held at the Prince Holding Group Headquarters, marked a significant milestone in the development of Cambodia’s watchmaking talent. These aspiring watchmakers, joined by their families, completed 3,400 hours of full-time, two-year training under the guidance of professional Swiss-trained instructors and supported by state-of-the-art facilities.

Graduates of the Class of 2024 from the Prince Horology Vocational Training Center, supported by Prince Foundation, proudly celebrate their accomplishments with distinguished guests and faculty members.
Graduates of the Class of 2024 from the Prince Horology Vocational Training Center, supported by Prince Foundation, proudly celebrate their accomplishments with distinguished guests and faculty members.

The Prince Horology Vocational Training Center in Cambodia, with support from Prince Foundation, was established by Neak Oknha Chen Zhi, a devoted watch aficionado whose personal passion for horology and hands-on involvement have significantly shaped the institute’s growth. His dedication to fostering a culture of excellence ensures that graduates leave equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in the global horology industry.

During the ceremony, Mr. Maarten Pieters, Technical Adviser at the Prince Horology Vocational Training Center in Cambodia, congratulated the graduates for their dedication, saying, “Our students have worked tirelessly to achieve this milestone, and we are incredibly proud of their accomplishments. We also express our gratitude to Neak Oknha Chen Zhi and Prince Foundation for their generous support, which has been pivotal in making this journey possible. I am confident that our graduates will excel in their future careers.”

Mr. Gabriel Tan, Head of Prince Foundation, added, “We are honored to support the Prince Horology Vocational Training Center in Cambodia in training the next generation of skilled watchmakers. These graduates have demonstrated remarkable dedication, and we are excited to see the impact they will make in the horology industry. Prince Foundation is committed to fostering opportunities for Cambodian youth in specialized global fields.”

Prince Foundation extends its best wishes to the graduates as they embark on their professional journeys, confident that their world-class training will lead to success.

For more information about Prince Horology and its programs, please visit https://princehorology.com/ or contact: support@princehorology.com
Hashtag: #PrinceFoundation #PrinceHorology #Graduation #ChenZhi

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

About Prince Foundation

Prince Foundation, founded in 2015, is one of Cambodia’s leading philanthropic foundations. A member of Prince Holding Group, which is one of the largest business groups in Cambodia, the Foundation aims to work with local communities to build thriving living and working environments that elevate people’s well-being and livelihoods, following the vision: “Together, Building a Better Future for Cambodia.”

Focusing on education and youth development, healthcare, and community engagement and sports, and healthcare initiatives, Prince Foundation works with partners to deliver sustainable programs that enhance opportunities for Cambodia’s youths, build resilience in communities, and contribute to sustainable infrastructure.

The Foundation’s flagship projects are the , offering full scholarships, stipends, internships, and work opportunities to 400 Cambodian university students over a period of seven years, and Prince Horology, where aspiring Cambodian watchmakers learn the art of Swiss-style watchmaking in a state-of-the-art facility. Prince Foundation has launched more than 250 philanthropic initiatives, benefiting over 1.3 million people, with donations exceeding US$16 million.

Thai Authorities Cut Illegal Internet Cables Across Thai-Lao Border

Thai Authorities Cut Illegal Internet Cables Across Thai-Lao Border
Assistant national police chief Pol Lt Gen Thatchai Pitaneelaboot cuts through an illegal internet cable on the Second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge in Mukdahan on Sunday. (Photo: the Mukdahan office of the Public Relations Department)

Thai authorities have discovered and severed illegal internet cables running from Thailand’s Mukdahan Province across the Second Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge into Laos, Thai media reported.

Laos, China Collaborate on Traditional Medicine, Cancer Treatment

Laos, China Collaborate on Traditional Medicine, Cancer Treatment
Dr Bounleuane Douangdeuane (centre) signs an agreement on partnership with China on medical developments. (Photo credit: Vientiane Times)

Laos and China have deepened their cooperation in traditional medicine, focusing on medical plant cultivation, research, and innovative treatments to enhance healthcare services in Laos.

Lao-Thai Railway Boosts Regional Connectivity, Economic Growth

By SOULIYASONE GNOTSYOUDOM, OULAYVANH SISOUNONTH

Since the Lao-Thai railway’s launch on 20 July, regional connectivity and economic growth in Laos have significantly improved, particularly in the tourism sector. Over 13,000 passengers have traveled the Bangkok-Vientiane route. The railway enhances both passenger and freight transport, creating vital links between Laos and Thailand.

In addition to improving Laos’ access to international markets, the Lao-Thai railway also connects Vientiane, Laos, with Nong Khai, Thailand, serving as a key border crossing. The railway has reduced logistical costs and streamlined the export of Laos’ minerals, agricultural products, and manufactured goods, thus increasing the country’s trade volume.

The upgraded infrastructure brought by the Lao-Thai railway makes Laos more attractive for foreign direct investment. The railway’s operational success could lead to the development of export processing zones and logistics hubs near railway stations.

The Lao government aims to attract 4.6 million international tourists by the end of 2024, generating USD 1.3 billion in revenue. Campaigns like “Visit Laos Year 2024” highlight Laos’ cultural heritage and increase the appeal of rail travel, making tourism more accessible and affordable.

The Lao-Thai Railway has transformed Laos’ regional connectivity and economic landscape. By improving transport links and reducing logistical barriers, the railway strengthens Laos’ position in the Southeast Asian market, boosts trade, attracts investment, and supports tourism growth.

September Trade Figures Show Drop in Exports, Imports for Laos, Excluding Electricity

Laos recorded a total foreign trade valuation of USD 1,064 million (Photo credit: VOI)

In September, Laos recorded a total foreign trade valuation of USD 1,064 million, marking a 12 percent decline from August, according to the Lao Trade Portal (LTP). This figure encompasses both exports and imports, excluding electricity. 

Global Data Ecosystem Conference in Shanghai Shines Spotlight on Blockchain Tech

SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2024 – This year’s Global Data Ecosystem Conference in Shanghai focused on blockchain technology and innovations in how it can be used in different areas.

Shanghai can be a pioneer in exploring advanced technologies, including blockchain and data space, Shen Zhulin, deputy head of the National Data Administration, said at the conference held from Oct. 19 to 20. The city is one of the few places in China chosen to spearhead trials to drastically reduce data circulation and transaction costs while ensuring secure, compliant, and orderly data flow, Shen added.

The Global Data Ecosystem Conference was organized by Yicai Media Group for the fourth straight year. It was co-hosted by Shanghai Data Group and Shanghai Data Service Provider Association, with the support of the Shanghai Data Bureau and the government of Pudong district.

The event showcases achievements in the development of the digital economy, and is also an innovation platform for the digital business ecosystem and an exchange platform for international data cooperation. The National Data Group Alliance, the first equal-rights organization for data groups in China, was also launched at the event to boost tie-ups among data companies nationwide and hasten the growth of the data industry.

By strengthening international data exchange and cooperation, the conference has established a year-round exchange and collaboration mechanism with international organizations, including the Hong Kong Chamber of Data & Digital Commerce Organizing Committee, SGTech, the leading trade association for Singapore’s tech industry, and the International Data Spaces Association to better serve local digital merchants in going global and the entry of global data businesses.

In the future, Shanghai will further promote the sharing and openness of public data, innovate the development and use of public data, build a good digital business ecological environment, and promote the building of international data centers.

Shanghai’s core digital economy was worth more than CNY600 billion (USD84.5 billion) last year, according to the city’s data bureau.
Hashtag: #GlobalDataEcosystemConference

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

Indian Film Superstar Ram Charan’s Upcoming Figure at Madame Tussauds Singapore Announced at IIFA Awards


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2024 – Award-winning actor and producer Ram Charan is set to join the prestigious line-up of superstars at Madame Tussauds Singapore with a wax figure set to arrive in summer of 2025.

Photo by Madame Tussauds Singapore
Photo by Madame Tussauds Singapore

Best known for his roles in films including critically acclaimed “RRR” (2022) and the upcoming anticipated movie Game Changer, Ram Charan was presented the “Madame Tussauds of the Future Award” at the star-studded 2024 International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) Awards at Etihad Arena, Abu Dhabi. This award marked not just the success in South Indian film, but also his broad appeal to his fans globally.

“It’s great to be a part of Madame Tussauds alongside others who have contributed so much to cinema. As a kid, when I visited Madame Tussauds to see the legends and take pictures with them, I never imagined I would one day be part of it so early in my career. I thank Madame Tussauds for acknowledging my work and motivating me to do better,” said Ram Charan.

It was also revealed at the awards show, through a behind-the-scenes video, that his pet, Rhyme, will be included as part of his upcoming figure, making him the only celebrity, apart from Queen Elizabeth II, to have a pet featured. “I’m really touched that the Madame Tussauds team included my darling pet Rhyme with my figure. This means a lot to me, as it shows the perfect synergy between my work and my life—Rhyme is a big part of it. This one is special.”

IIFA and Madame Tussauds Singapore have been collaborating since 2017 when the IIFA Awards Experience was launched exclusively at the Singapore attraction. This collaboration serves to bring together a celebration of Indian cinema on a global stage, while allowing fans to engage with their favorite stars in a unique way. Since then, many icons of Indian cinema have launched there, with Ram Charan being next in line in Madame Tussauds Singapore.

Andre Timmins, co-founder IIFA said, “the partnership between IIFA and Madame Tussauds has been a fantastic journey in showcasing the brilliance of Indian cinema to global audiences. Each year, we celebrate icons who have not only made an impact in India but have captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Ram Charan’s addition to this prestigious line-up further strengthens our shared vision of bringing Indian cinema’s finest closer to their fans. As we mark 25 years since the unveiling of Amitabh Bachchan’s figure at the 2000 IIFA in London, this partnership continues to grow, reflecting the global reach and influence of Indian cinema. We’re excited to honor more stars and bring more memorable experiences together as we move forward.”

“It is a great privilege to continue our longstanding partnership with IIFA to honour legends of the Indian film industry. We are thrilled to be welcoming Ram Charan’s figure to join the rest of the stars such as Shah Rukh Khan, Kajol, Karan Johar and Amitabh Bachchan at our very own IIFA Zone in Madame Tussauds Singapore”, said Alex Ward, Regional Director, Gateway Asia, Merlin Entertainments

Madame Tussauds Singapore celebrates her 10th year anniversary this year with an exciting line up of celebrity figure launches, activities, and promotions throughout year. Sign up to our e-newsletter and get be one of the first to get updates! Visit www.madametussauds.com/singapore for more information.
Hashtag: #MadameTussaudsSingapore




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

Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds has been inviting people to walk the red carpet and get closer to the revered – and feared – for over 250 years. With over 23 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 infamous 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.

Merlin Entertainments

Merlin Entertainments is a global leader in location-based, family entertainment. As Europe’s Number 1 and the world’s second-largest visitor attraction operator, Merlin operates 137 attractions, 22 hotels and 6 holiday villages in 24 countries and across 4 continents. Merlin’s purpose is to deliver memorable experiences to its millions of guests around the world, through its iconic brands and multiple attraction formats, and the commitment and passion of its employees. See for more information.

The Mills Fabrica Releases New Impact Report to Mark 5 Years of Catalyzing Environmental and Social Change

Having partnered with 100+ global brands, its second Impact Report highlights how the power of collaboration fosters impactful techstyle and agrifood innovations


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2024 – The Mills Fabrica launches its latest Impact Report to celebrate five years of fostering, accelerating and supporting techstyle and agrifood innovators to catalyze planet-positive change. In line with its inaugural report, this year’s report showcases how companies can leverage the nine planetary boundaries framework as outlined by the Stockholm Resilience Center and the IRIS+ framework, to measure the impact generated by The Mills Fabrica’s portfolio companies.

TMF Impact Report 2023

Over the past five years, The Mills Fabrica has proudly incubated, propelled, and supported innovators actively making a tangible difference for the planet. Employing a unique approach that covers the various phases of the innovation development process, The Mills Fabrica’s scope of work encompasses a venture capital fund, startup incubator, Impact Retail Store Fabrica X, and an innovation gallery, labs, events and co-working spaces in Hong Kong and London. This enables it to tailor its various business streams to cater to each phase, maximizing the chances of realizing impactful innovations.

“We are proud to mark five years of driving positive change for the planet and people with our vast network of stakeholders. As we look to the next five years, we are calling on like-minded partners to join us in our mission to build a future where innovation, sustainability, and conscious consumption intersect. Whether you are an innovator or a corporation new to sustainability, The Mills Fabrica’s global platform with extensive on-the-ground knowledge is ready to support your sustainability efforts in Asia and beyond,” says Cintia Nunes, General Manager and Head of Asia at The Mills Fabrica.

Fabrica Investment Fund: Accelerated 20+ high-potential innovators

Since inception in 2018, The Mills Fabrica has strategically invested in over 20 pioneering startups and eight funds operating in the techstyle and agrifood industries. Covering upstream, midstream, and down-stream supply chains for both industries, this comprehensive approach enables The Mills Fabrica to support a diverse range of innovations, allowing them to scale their solutions and generate environmental and social impact. Most recently, it strengthened its commitment to generating positive impact by targeting upstream innovations and integrating a tailored impact management process throughout its investment lifecycle.

These investments have already shown considerable promise in generating impactful change for the planet. For example, Mango Materials, a portfolio company that transforms methane into biodegradable materials, has displaced 1.4 tonnes of plastics with its PHA-based pellets, avoiding the release of 836 kg of greenhouse gas equivalent.

Incubation Program: Nurtured 15+ startups into their next phase of growth

To accelerate sustainable innovation in Hong Kong and the U.K., The Mills Fabrica has provided tailored support to over 15 innovators, encompassing access to co-working spaces, network opportunities, curated expert workshops, and showcasing opportunities through its Impact Retail concept Fabrica X. Taking its incubatee IXON as an example, their advanced sous-vide aseptic packaging (ASAP) technology and product generated considerable interest with the help of The Mills Fabrica’s network. By hosting tasting events for chefs, investors, and media, IXON successfully commercialized its ASAP technology. The Mills Fabrica also facilitated introductions to investors and corporate partners, expanding IXON’s network and contributing to its growing recognition.

Empowering young innovators and inspiring consumer curiosity

With a strong belief that innovation often starts within educational institutions, The Mills Fabrica has established two student competitions: the Central Saint Martins x The Mills Fabrica Innovation Award and its flagship Techstyle For Social Good to unlock the entrepreneurial spirit of students and recent graduates.

Over the years, The Mills Fabrica has partnered with more than 170 educational institutions worldwide to identify promising young innovators who have developed or are close to developing an early prototype of a technological innovation. The two competitions have received over 600 applications globally, with total prizes amounting to HKD 1.9 million. Apart from the prize fund, winners receive an extensive array of support, ranging from brand collaborations to showcasing opportunities at Fabrica X, aimed at transforming their innovative ideas into game-changing solutions.

In particular, to connect up-and-coming sustainable brands to consumers, Fabrica X, an Impact Retail concept in Hong Kong and London, serves as a touchpoint to educate consumers on key sustainability issues and showcase and sell sustainable products. Its Plastic Circularity campaign in Hong Kong brought together 47 like-minded innovators and brands, attracting over 45,000 visitors, with 88% of participants reporting that they are more willing to buy items made from recycled materials after attending the workshops.

Unlocking opportunities by curating a collaborative ecosystem across all sectors

Marking five years since inception, The Mills Fabrica remains firm in its belief that industry collaboration is key to support innovation for sustainable development. Through partnership initiatives and curated Fabrica Happenings, The Mills Fabrica has created opportunities for innovators to connect with manufacturers, retailers, and investors from all sectors. Having hosted over 360 events that engaged more than 45,000 individuals, these events continue to be invaluable in furthering its mission of driving planet-positive change.

“The Mills Fabrica has unique expertise and connections to crucial stakeholders from all over the world to collectively safeguard our planet. We look forward to bringing more innovations to life as a result of these mutually-beneficial collaborations with our ecosystem partners,” Nunes adds.

The Mills Fabrica’s 2023 Impact Report can be downloaded here: https://bit.ly/ir23-press
Hashtag: #TheMillsFabrica

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

About The Mills Fabrica

The Mills Fabrica is a go-to solutions platform accelerating techstyle and agrifood tech innovations for sustainability. Officially launched in Hong Kong in December 2018, The Mills is a landmark revitalization project by the Nan Fung Group, transforming their old textile factories into a new heritage, experiential retail, and innovation centre. With its business incubator, investment fund, spaces in Hong Kong and London, and community-building initiatives, The Mills Fabrica aims to create success stories of collaborations between innovators, entrepreneurs, and corporates, that together, will drive positive change for future generations.