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Dusit International champions local culinary excellence with sponsorship of The Maverick Academy on Netflix

New reality show connects regional culinary talent with global opportunities in an exciting competition.


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 November 2024 – Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, is delighted to announce its role as a key sponsor of The Maverick Academy, a groundbreaking culinary competition series hosted by the renowned chef Alvin Leung – aka The Demon Chef – which is available to watch on Netflix now.

Showcasing a unique blend of high-stakes cooking challenges and business acumen, The Maverick Academy brings together eight talented chefs from across Southeast Asia
Showcasing a unique blend of high-stakes cooking challenges and business acumen, The Maverick Academy brings together eight talented chefs from across Southeast Asia

Showcasing a unique blend of high-stakes cooking challenges and business acumen, The Maverick Academy, produced by AR Asia Productions, brings together eight talented chefs from across Southeast Asia – including Dusit’s very own Chef Woottisak ‘Woody’ Simhong, a culinary instructor at Dusit Thani College in Bangkok – in a quest to find the next culinary prodigy who will join Chef Alvin in shaping the future of the culinary landscape as his apprentice and business partner.

Chef Alvin, an English-born Hong Kong-Canadian chef and television personality, is celebrated for his signature style of ‘X-Treme Chinese Cuisine,’ which has modernised Chinese food and introduced new flavours in restaurants worldwide. He currently holds two Michelin stars at Bo Innovation in Hong Kong. He has also gained recognition as a judge on MasterChef Canada, showcasing his expertise and passion for culinary excellence.

He is joined on The Maverick Academy by co-presenter Eric Chong, Chef Alvin’s first apprentice and the winner of the inaugural season of MasterChef Canada. The show also features a distinguished panel of culinary icons as mentors and judges, including chef/owners of Michelin-starred establishments in Bangkok, along with Adrian Rudin, Managing Director of Dusit’s reimagined flagship hotel, Dusit Thani Bangkok, who serves as a judge on one of the episodes.

While filming in Thailand, contestants stayed at ASAI Bangkok Chinatown, a vibrant Dusit hotel in the heart of the city’s fascinating Chinatown district. Designed to link curious travellers with authentic local experiences, this lifestyle-focused property offered an ideal sanctuary for contestants to rest and recharge between demanding shoots that tested their culinary skills, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit.

In addition to featuring a challenge spotlighting Baan Dusit Thani—Dusit’s distinctive standalone dining venue showcasing an array of culinary concepts—the competition also utilised the state-of-the-art facilities at Dusit Thani College, Thailand’s first and largest higher education institution dedicated to hospitality education and training, and The Food School, Thailand’s first multinational culinary school, which is a collaboration between Japan’s Tsuji Culinary Institute, Italy’s ALMA, and Dusit Thani College. These prestigious institutions, renowned for their culinary and hospitality programmes, offered the perfect backdrop for contestants to showcase their skills and expertise.

Thailand is well represented in the competition, with three contestants, four Thai mentors, and four Thai sponsorship partners. As a Thailand-based company and a key sponsor of the show, Dusit is proud to showcase its dedication to culinary innovation and to inspire the next generation of chefs, both within Thailand and on the global stage.

“Dusit International’s sponsorship of The Maverick Academy underscores our dedication to excellence in culinary arts, personalised service, and hospitality education,” said Suphajee Suthumpun, Group CEO, Dusit International. “With its dynamic format, broad appeal to diverse audiences, and an exciting lineup of culinary talent from Thailand, the show serves as an exceptional platform to champion culinary excellence in our country and celebrate the kingdom’s rich gastronomic heritage.”

Dusit joins other prominent sponsors of the show, including Lexus, MasterCard, Makro, Lubuds, CPF (Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited), and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), as part of a collective effort to elevate Thailand’s culinary landscape on the international stage.

All five episodes of The Maverick Academy are streaming on Netflix now.

For more information and images, please visit: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1XO1CDO_0rMkq48BaqXk_6zsAqCLTAhDb?usp=sharing

Hashtag: #dusitinternational

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

About Dusit International

Established in 1948, or Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (DUSIT) is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: Dusit Hotels and Resorts, Dusit Hospitality Education, Dusit Foods, Dusit Estate, and Hospitality-Related Services.

Dusit International’s diversified investments in real estate development, hospitality-related services, and the food sector are part of its long-term strategy for sustainable growth, which focuses on three key areas: balance, expansion and diversification.

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About The Maverick Academy

“The Maverick Academy” produced by AR Asia Production is an innovative culinary competition series created by Anne Chan and The Demon Chef Alvin Leung, designed to discover and mentor the next generation of culinary talent and business visionaries.

About Netflix

Netflix is the world’s leading streaming entertainment service with over 200 million memberships in over 190 countries. The company is renowned for its vast library of TV shows, movies, documentaries, and original content.

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Melbourne Teenager Bianca Jones Dies After Laos Methanol Poisoning

Bianca Jones, 19. (Photo: Facebook)

ABC News – Melbourne teenager Bianca Jones has died in hospital in Thailand after consuming methanol-laced drinks during a backpacking holiday in Laos.

Thai police have confirmed to the ABC that the cause of the 19-year-old’s death was methanol poisoning, and that Jones had a high concentration of it in her blood.

Jones and her friend Holly Bowles became critically ill after consuming the drinks in Vang Vieng in Laos last week.

Jones was taken to hospital in Udon Thani in Thailand, near the border with Laos, and Bowles was taken to a separate hospital in Bangkok.

In a statement published by the Herald Sun newspaper, Jones’s family said their “beloved daughter and sister” had passed away.

“She was surrounded by love, and we are comforted by the knowledge that her incredible spirit touched so many lives during her time with us,” the family said.

“We want to express our deepest gratitude for the overwhelming support, love, and prayers we’ve received from across Australia.”

The families of Jones and Bowles flew to Thailand and have spent the past few days by their bedsides.

An American and two Danish tourists have also died in the suspected mass poisoning, which left up to 14 people violently ill.

Vang Vieng is a small town north of the Laotian capital Vientiane, which is a popular tourist destination for backpackers.

Jones’s family has been at her bedside at a hospital in Udon Thani, in Thailand’s north near the border with Laos.

In a statement released earlier this week, the family said she and Ms Bowles had been on a “dream getaway”.

“They were filled with joy and had such incredible adventures ahead of them,” the family said.

‘Every parent’s very worst fear’

Goldstein MP Zoe Daniel, the local member for the area both Jones and Bowles are from, said she was sending her love to both families.

“They are suffering pain that no-one should have to experience,” she said.

“To the families of these two young Aussie girls who just headed off on an adventure together, I know that so many members of our community are connected to these girls, to these families.

“I feel your grief. Our hearts are broken.”

She said that Holly’s parents remain by her bedside in Bangkok.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paused Question Time to inform the parliament that the Department of Foreign Affairs had confirmed Jones’s death.

“Our first thoughts in this moment are with her family and friends who are grieving a terrible and cruel loss,” he said.

“This is every parent’s very worst fear and a nightmare that no one should have to endure.”

He expressed hope that Holly Bowles would recover well.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Penny Wong also offered her sympathies to the Jones family.

“Drink spiking and methanol poisoning are far too common in too many parts of the world, so at this time I would say to parents of young people, please have a conversation about risks, please inform yourselves, please let’s work together to ensure this tragedy doesn’t happen again,” she said.

Football club to gather to remember Bianca as hope remains for Holly

Bianca Jones and Holly Bowles played in Beaumaris Football Club’s U18 premiership team in 2022.

Club president Nick Heath said he spoke to a representative of the Jones family this afternoon, who said her parents had been told all medical options had been exhausted and there was no chance Jones would have regained consciousness.

‘They had to make that horrible decision that no family should have to make where they had to turn off the life support of Bianca,” Heath said.

He said all of her extended family had travelled to Thailand and were at her bedside when she died.

“It could have happened to any of our kids. That’s the reality of this situation,” Heath said.

“If we all take five minutes to walk in the parents’ shoes, that’s enough to cause huge torment to most of us, let alone having to live through it. Quite frankly I don’t even want to have to think about that.”

Heath said the girls’ U18 teammates had gathered on Wednesday night.

“We’re now just channelling all of our good thoughts and good wishes Holly’s way.”

Another gathering of the wider playing group was planned for Friday night.

“It was meant to be a season launch but we’re offering it as an optional gathering of players just to come together and be together at this time, and just lean on each other.”

The club will also organize a fundraiser to help the Jones family with their expenses.

Black Friday Savings: Kling AI Offers 50% Off and Free Feature Upgrades


BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 November 2024 – On November 11th, Kling AI, a trailblazer in AI-powered image and video generation, has announced sweeping upgrades to its user plans alongside its most significant Black Friday sale to date. For the first time, users on basic plans now have access to advanced features, removing barriers for aspiring creators to harness professional-grade AI tools.

This year, KLING AI is offering exclusive discounts and deals in celebration of Black Friday. All users can enjoy a 50% discount on the first-year subscription and can get 50% more Credits with any purchase. First-time users will unlock additional savings with three exclusive coupons. Visit Kling website or their X for details.

For Business users, the KLING API Platform is also available now. Business users can integrate KLING AI’s capabilities into their operations. For more information, visit KLING API Platform.

How to Use KLING AI?

  • For Individuals: Visit Kling website.
  • For Business: The KLING API Platform is now available. Business users can integrate KLING AI’s capabilities into their operations. For more information, visit KLING API Platform.


Kling AI Launches Its Biggest Sale of the Year with Significant Discounts

Kling AI is offering its largest annual sale this Black Friday, providing a valuable opportunity for content creators to access professional-grade AI tools at a reduced cost.

Highlights of the sale include:

  • 50% off First-Year Subscriptions – Save half on an annual plan and unlock advanced features.
  • 50% Bonus Credits – Receive extra Credits with every purchase to extend your creative capabilities.
  • Special Offers for New Users – First-time users can benefit from three exclusive coupons for additional savings.

These discounts are available for a limited time, from November 15 to December 3. Whether you’re a seasoned creator or just starting out, this is an opportunity to explore Kling AI’s tools at a lower cost. Visit Kling AI’s official website to learn more.
Hashtag: #KlingAI

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

About Kling AI

Kling AI’s platform specializes in generating stunning images and videos with hyper-realistic details. As competition among AI-powered video generation platforms grows, Kling AI has set itself apart by delivering an affordable yet high-quality solution for creators.

Breaking Learning Barriers: Kumon Launches Kumon Connect, Redefining Educational Experiences

New Students Enrolling in December Courses Enjoy Exclusive Double Rewards


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 November 2024 – The Kumon Method was first established in Japan in 1958 and has developed over the past 60 years to become a worldwide phenomenon. Classes have been opened in over 60 countries and regions with over 3 million students. Kumon offers Maths, English and Chinese programmes in Hong Kong and Macau. The Kumon Method creates personalized learning plans based on each child’s abilities, allowing them to learn without age or grade-level restrictions. Through studying the materials, children can independently explore new knowledge and gradually enhance their self-learning abilities. The learning materials are designed progressively from basic to advanced levels in small steps, ensuring every child can learn at their most suitable level. Instructors carefully observe children’s learning abilities and personalities to provide effective guidance, helping them reach their full potential. This enables every child to learn at their “just right” level.

Breaking Learning Barriers: Kumon Launches Kumon Connect, Redefining Educational Experiences
Breaking Learning Barriers: Kumon Launches Kumon Connect, Redefining Educational Experiences

As technology is changing rapidly, the Education Bureau (EDB) has launched”Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)” in Primary and Secondary Schools. Students can bring their own mobile computer devices to schools for learning activities to enhance the effectiveness of learning and teaching, classroom interaction as well as students’ ability in self-directed learning, problem-solving and collaboration. As online learning resources become increasingly abundant and E-learning development matures, BYOD is becoming more prevalent in schools. In response to this trend, The Kumon Method, which has relied on paper and pencil for over 60 years, has recently undergone a metamorphosis and entered a new phase of “KUMON CONNECT”. Kumon’s E-learning uses interactive online teaching and materials to enhance children’s learning motivation, taking Kumon learning into a new era. Currently supported courses include Mathematics and English (EFL).

Kumon’s E-learning platform differs from typical online learning platforms. KUMON CONNECT aims to achieve individualized learning while maintaining Kumon’s time-tested characteristics. It’s not simply converting paper materials into digital format; rather, it incorporates additional features to bridge the gap between instructors and children, facilitating communication that enables instructors to adjust progress according to children’s abilities and implement truly individualized learning.

5 Instant Functions to Improve Learning Efficiency

The launch and development of the KUMON CONNECT online teaching platform not only digitizes KUMON’s education system but also strengthens the connection between Kumon instructors, children, and parents. It helps instructors maintain close communication with children and provide appropriate learning guidance, offering tablet users an enhanced learning experience. KUMON CONNECT provides 5 real-time functions, unrestricted by time and distance, making children’s learning more efficient!

1.Instant Feedback Function

Students can submit their homework as soon as they finish it, rather than having to wait until the following week to submit it in class. This allows the instructor to review the homework in a timely manner and allows students to see what they have done wrong in a short period of time, thus reducing the chance of repeating mistakes and making progress more smoothly.

2.Playback Function

Instructors can also use the Playback function built into the Kumon Connect to observe and understand how students answer questions at home. For example, where to write first, where to revise, and so on; thus, even if your child is studying at home, it is as if the instructor is there with him/her.

3.Instant Messaging(IM)

The instructor can also send messages directly to your child when he/she observes something that your child has done well, so that he/she can provide timely encouragement to your child and give advice if there are any problems.

4.Analysis Charts

The Kumon Connect generates analysis charts against the standard completion times assigned to the worksheets, with data such as speed of completion and number of repetitions clearly displayed, allowing Kumon instructors to have a clear picture of students’ learning across the whole level.

5.Time Record

The KUMON CONNECT automatically records the child’s daily learning time, so that the instructor knows whether the student is learning on time every day. Moreover, the built-in timing function effectively helps students maintain their pace while answering questions and cultivates concentration.

Digitizing Learning Data for Enhanced Communication Between Students, Instructors, and Parents

Since KUMON introduced KUMON CONNECT in 2023, 20% of current students have switched to digital learning. Over 90% of students and parents using E-learning appreciate how instructors utilize the system to provide more specific and closer communication. Parents and students can review past learning content at any time. Through learning charts, they can better understand children’s strengths and weaknesses, progress, and areas needing improvement, enabling more personalized learning plans.

With E-learning integration, a single tablet can complete all learning processes, including English listening and worksheets. There’s no more scattered paper at home, and the capacitive stylus doubles as an electronic eraser, helping children maintain a tidy desk and improve concentration. Whether learning through KUMON CONNECT or paper-based materials, Kumon courses maintain uniform pricing.

Start Fresh, Earn Double
Exciting Welcome Offer! Get free classes and a Skidy learning pen
From November 21 to December 10, new students who register for a KUMON course in December will enjoy*:
Reward 1: A FREE Skidy Learning Pen* for the first 2000 enrolled students^ (valued at $799)
Reward 2: 2 FREE KUMON Classes*
*Terms and conditions apply.
^While supplies last, first-come-first-served.
Register Now: https://bit.ly/40SSeya
Event Details:https://kumon.com.hk/en/startfreshearndouble/
WhatsApp(Hong Kong)63183128 (Macao)66891128
Hashtag: #KumonConnect #BreakingLearningBarriers #KumonMethod #PersonalizedLearning #Elearning #SelfLearning #EducationalInnovation #KumonRewards #LearningJourney #StudentSuccess #MathsEducation #EnglishLearning #ChineseLiteracy #DigitalLearning #LearningEfficiency #EmpoweredStudents #KumonHongKong

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

About KUMON

The Kumon Method, established in Japan in 1958, has developed over 60 years and now operates in more than 60 countries and regions worldwide, serving over 3 million students. In Hong Kong and Macau, it offers Mathematics, English, and Chinese courses. An increasing number of children are developing their potential through the Kumon Method, building capabilities to achieve their future dreams. The Kumon Method is dedicated to developing each child’s potential. Rather than directly teaching problem-solving methods, it guides children to solve worksheets using their own abilities, fostering a ‘can-do’ attitude and the spirit to fearlessly face new knowledge and challenges.

KUMON
Address:Room 3403-3408, 34/F, Chubb Tower, Windsor House, 311 Gloucester Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
Tel:2890 6533
WhatsApp:6318 3128
Website:
Facebook:
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Non-Thai Nationals in Laos to Apply for E-Visa Only Starting from January 2025

Kingdom of Thailand Visa (Photo credit: Thai Embassy)

According to the official announcement from the Royal Thai Embassy in Vientiane on 18 November, noted that non-Thai nationals  in Laos who intend to travel to Thailand for tourism purposes or work within 60 days must apply for all types of visas only through the e-Visa system and are confirmed to make payments in cash with Thai Baht at the Consular Section of the Royal Thai Embassy, and was set to begin on 1 January 2025.

It will take approximately 10 to 15 working days (if all required documents are completely checked) starting from the date of visa fee payment and the embassy will accept visa applications in the current system (on site document format) up until 20 November.

To prepare for the transition to the e-Visa service, The Embassy will not accept any visa applications from 21 to 31 December.

Lao people visiting Thailand for less than 60 days, can travel normally without applying for an e-Visa.

Japan, UNDP Partner to Support Evacuation Centers in Laos

Japan, UNDP Partner to Support Evacuation Centers in Laos
apan and UNDP are launching joint project on enhancing disaster response capability in Laos (Photo credit: UNDP)

Laos is set to strengthen disaster resilience through a new partnership with the Government of Japan and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

On 19 November, Japan and UNDP announced a joint funding initiative valued at USD 3.8 million to construct 12 evacuation centers in disaster-prone regions in Laos, including Khammouane, Salavan, and Champasack provinces. Over the next three years, these centers will provide immediate safety and essential facilities for more than one million people in areas vulnerable to extreme weather events.

In addition to constructing evacuation sites, the initiative will revise national guidelines for selecting and assessing evacuation sites, ensuring inclusive and robust designs. Best practices from the project will be shared to enhance long-term disaster preparedness across the country.

Koizumi Tsutomu, Ambassador of Japan to Laos, emphasized Japan’s commitment: “Through this project, we aim to enhance disaster resilience, not only by ensuring the safety of people during emergencies but also by fostering a culture of disaster awareness and preparedness. Japan will continue to contribute to strengthening Laos’ resilience as a strategic partner.”

Meanwhile, UNDP Resident Representative Martine Thérer highlighted the broader impact: “This project aims to establish resilient infrastructure, enhance national policies, and strengthen capacity at both community and national levels. By doing so, we aim to reduce socioeconomic inequalities and improve livelihoods in disaster-prone areas.”

Laos is particularly vulnerable to natural disasters, with risks exacerbated by climate change and deforestation. As of recent tropical storms, including Prapiroon, Yagi, and Soulik, resulted in 12 fatalities, 32 injuries, and affected over 370,000 people across 16 provinces, causing damages estimated at LAK 6,000 billion (approximately USD 300 million).

With the collaboration between Japan, UNDP, and Laos’ Ministry of Labour and Social Welfare, the project reflects a shared commitment to building safer, more resilient communities. As part of this effort, lessons learned from the initiative will inform future strategies, ensuring Laos is better equipped to respond to natural disasters.

 

Lexus Asia Celebrates Celebrity Chef Alvin Leung’s Protégé in The Maverick Academy


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 November 2024 – Lexus Asia celebrates Chef Yuda Bustara, the inaugural winner of The Maverick Academy, an innovative culinary competition series hosted by Lexus Asia and AR Asia Production that made its debut on Netflix on 8th November. Chef Yuda’s demonstration of excellence, innovation, and personalised culinary creations in the show aligns with the Lexus brand’s dedication of creating amazing experiences. His culinary prowess, combined with these qualities, earned him the top spot in the competition.

PHOTO CREDIT: AR Asia Production
PHOTO CREDIT: AR Asia Production

Under the discerning eyes of a distinguished panel of mentors, including Chef Pam Soontornyanakij and Chef Michael Bonacini, the contestants faced a series of demanding challenges designed to push their skills, creativity, and entrepreneurial potential to the limit. From individual signature dish challenges to team challenges, the contestants battled fiercely for the chance to become the first-ever Top Scholar.

Chef Yuda Bustara victory

Chef Yuda Bustara, an Indonesian celebrity chef and host, emerged victorious amongst 8 contestants, claiming the title of Top Scholar and securing a coveted mentorship and business partnership with the internationally acclaimed Demon Chef Alvin Leung.

Yuda started his three-month traineeship at LUMA in November. LUMA, the first Asia Pacific restaurant by Mastercard in partnership with Hong Kong’s leading culinary group, LUBUDS, showcases international talent and served as the filming location for the finale of The Maverick Academy.

Driven by a desire to share his love for Indonesian cuisine with the world, Yuda embarked on a mission to make authentic Indonesian flavours accessible to a global audience. In 2015, he started his now successful YouTube channel where he shares simple and healthy recipes. The platform has gained massive popularity over the years with over 560,000 subscribers. Reflecting on his win, Yuda shared, “I’m honoured to be the winner of the first season of The Maverick Academy. The entire journey has been an incredible opportunity to push my creativity, connect with talented chefs, and share my vision on a larger stage.”

Yuda’s path to victory was not without its challenges. Facing a rocky start and the threat of elimination in the first episode, he demonstrated determination to adapt and improve. He consistently impressed the judges with his people skills, ability to create harmonious flavour profiles, and an unwavering focus on delivering extraordinary dining experiences.

Known for his charm and disposition, Yuda showcased a profound understanding of exceptional hospitality throughout the show, reflecting the values at the heart of the Lexus brand. His leadership during the team challenge wasn’t just about creating delicious dishes, but prioritising the individual needs and preferences of each guest; meticulously tailoring a meaningful dining experience. Chef Alvin even commended him on his charismatic presentation of his group’s curated menu for Lexus VIPs.

Lexus’ commitment to delivering elevated experiences

Lexus, driven by the commitment to deliver amazing experiences, continues to provide elevated culinary experiences in Singapore, Brunei, Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia. Whilst The Maverick Academy is filmed across the region, each market crafted personalised experiences specifically curated to the needs and preferences of their guests.

Lexus Singapore introduced new gastronomical experiences with the reopening of their Lexus Boutique on 12th November, engaging the senses, notably an exclusive Lexus Aichi Miso Cake made in collaboration with Pâtisserie CLE. Meanwhile, Lexus Thailand hosted their exclusive “Lexus Refined Dining Experience” partnering with Mott 32, one of the most-awarded Chinese restaurant brands in the world, to provide a fresh take on modern Chinese cuisine. In Indonesia, Lexus has teamed up with locally renowned chefs to host a one-of-a-kind culinary journey within their limited-access brand space IMMERSION. Lexus Vietnam, in similar inspiration, worked with local chefs and influencers to celebrate the rich flavours of Vietnam to showcase authentic local culinary discoveries. Other markets offer interactive culinary workshops highlighting Lexus’ appreciation for craftmanship and innovation.

These carefully crafted culinary experiences highlight Lexus’ commitment to delivering elevated experiences, aligning perfectly with Lexus’ persistent pursuit of authenticity and hospitality for automotive and beyond.

The culinary series celebrates and supports both aspiring chefs, as well as inspiring chefs and viewers alike to embark on their own culinary journeys. Fans can watch the 5-episode series on Netflix here.

To know more about Lexus and The Maverick Academy, please go to lexusasia.com/culinary/maverickacademy.
Hashtag: #Lexus #TheMaverickAcademy

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

About Lexus

Lexus launched in 1989 with a flagship sedan and a guest experience that helped define the premium automotive industry. In 1998, Lexus introduced the luxury crossover category with the launch of the Lexus RX. The luxury hybrid sales leader, Lexus delivered the world’s first luxury hybrid and has since sold over 2.66 million hybrid vehicles including HEVs, PHEVs, and BEVs. (as of the end of August 2023)

A global luxury automotive brand with an unwavering commitment to bold, uncompromising design, exceptional craftsmanship, and exhilarating performance, Lexus has developed its lineup to meet the needs of the next generation of global luxury guests and is currently available in over 90 countries/regions worldwide.

Lexus associates/team members across the world are dedicated to crafting amazing experiences that are uniquely Lexus, and that excite and change the world.

About The Maverick Academy

“The Maverick Academy” is an innovative culinary competition series created by Anne Chan and Demon Chef Alvin Leung, designed to discover and mentor the next generation of culinary talent and business visionaries.

Laos Arrests 5,168 in 2024 Drug Crackdown

Laos Arrests 5,168 in 2024 Drug Crackdown
Asia Laos Police Make South East Asia’s Biggest Ever Drugs Bust By Sean Watson (GLOBE)

Laos reported 3,395 drug-related cases processed this year, leading to the arrest of 5,168 individuals, including 199 foreigners.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Public Security, General Vilay Lakhamfong, provided these statistics during a National Assembly session on 20 November, emphasizing the ministry’s continued efforts to combat drug addiction and trafficking.

The minister highlighted significant drug seizures made by authorities, including nearly 381 kg of heroin, over 81 million amphetamine pills, 4,800 kg of crystal meth, 84.86 kg of opium, 3,600 kg of cannabis, and more than 10,000 kg of other drug-related substances. Additionally, items allegedly linked to drug offenses were confiscated, such as 77 cars, 480 motorcycles, 10 guns, and 1,677 bullets. 

Efforts to combat drug production have also been underway, with authorities identifying over 5,800 hectares of opium poppy plantations across nine provinces this year. Of these, 126 hectares were destroyed.

In a related move, 123 kratom trees were removed in Vientiane’s Sangthong district, and 126 tonnes of chemicals were seized in northern provinces like Bokeo, Luang Prabang, and Luang Namtha.

To support individuals struggling with addiction, Laos operates 14 drug rehabilitation centers, which have treated 5,132 individuals this year. Of these, 2,513 have returned home, while 2,619 remain in care. The government is also building a new rehabilitation center, set to be completed by the end of 2025.

Additionally, Laos is establishing 28 community counseling centers and has declared 3,222 villages, 163 schools, and 38 workplaces as drug-free zones. The government has strengthened border control efforts with 24 coordination offices, six drug control points in key provinces, and a Mekong-Lancang coordination center to facilitate information-sharing with neighboring countries.

Looking ahead to 2025, the government will focus on six key tasks to address drug-related issues: raising public awareness, strengthening legislation, building the capacity of law enforcement and judicial systems, improving interagency coordination, enhancing delegation of responsibilities, and fostering international cooperation.