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Novo Nordisk’s GLP‑1 RA–A Modern Treatment for Obesity Management–is Linked to Lower Household Spending on Alcohol and Tobacco

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Advertorial Desk
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Real-world data analysis suggests that families with at least one member using Novo Nordisk’s GLP‑1 RA for weight management tend to reduce spending on alcohol and cigarettes.

JAKARTA, Indonesia, Jan. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — At the international scientific congress ObesityWeek® held late last year in Atlanta, United States, Novo Nordisk presented findings from a real-world analysis of grocery spending data from more than 200,000 households.[1] The analysis found that households with at least one person using Novo Nordisk’s GLP‑1 RA for weight management showed a year-on-year reduction in overall grocery spending compared with households not using similar medicines—most notably in purchases of alcohol and tobacco/cigarette products.

These findings indicate a potential association between the use of Novo Nordisk’s GLP‑1 medicine for weight management and reduced alcohol and tobacco consumption at the household level.

In Indonesia, obesity is becoming an increasingly concerning health issue. Based on the latest national health survey, the number of adults living with obesity and excess abdominal fat continues to rise. In simple terms, it is currently estimated that around 1 in 4 adults in Indonesia live with obesity or carry excess fat around the waist. Obesity is not just about appearance—people living with obesity face a higher risk of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, and joint pain, which can affect quality of life and increase the financial burden on families.

In this analysis, researchers assessed household spending data on daily groceries across two 12‑month periods. Data were collected through recurring surveys between April 2024 and April 2025 from a large consumer panel that recorded shopping receipts and completed surveys on household information, medicine use, and habits. Results showed that households with at least one user of Novo Nordisk’s GLP‑1 RA for weight management experienced a year-on-year reduction in grocery spending, driven mainly by lower spending on alcohol and tobacco/cigarette products, compared with households without a GLP‑1 RA user.

While this analysis cannot prove that the medicine directly causes behavioural changes, the findings suggest that obesity treatment may help support healthier everyday choices, such as reducing alcohol consumption and smoking. As the analysis was conducted at the household level, these potential benefits may also extend to other family members living with the medicine user.

“We already know that Novo Nordisk’s GLP‑1 medicine has proven effects on weight loss, as well as broader health benefits, so it’s exciting to see signs that it may also support people with obesity in making healthier everyday choices,” said Dr. Filip K. Knop, chief medical officer at Novo Nordisk. “The latest findings showing a reduction in alcohol and tobacco spending in households using this therapy are very encouraging. They point to the potential for this treatment to support people living with obesity—and those they live with—in fostering healthier behaviours. This real-world analysis explores potential broader effects of the therapy and builds on the recent INFORM real-world study investigating its impact on food noise (persistent thoughts about eating) in people living with obesity.”

Real-world analyses such as this have limitations. The results can only show a potential relationship (association), not prove that the medicine directly causes behavioural changes. The data were captured at the household level, so it is not possible to confirm who in the household purchased or consumed alcohol or cigarettes. Reduced spending may suggest reduced consumption, but additional evidence is needed to confirm this.

“In Indonesia, we see obesity becoming more common, often alongside other conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. Many patients feel it is entirely their fault, when in fact obesity is a complex medical condition that requires support,” said dr. Riyanny Meisha Tarliman, Clinical, Medical, and Regulatory Director at Novo Nordisk Indonesia.

“Our hope is that Indonesians increasingly view obesity as a condition that can—and should—be managed seriously, with support from doctors and appropriate therapy, rather than through self-blame. No one should have to face obesity alone. Through the right education and access to trusted information, we hope to drive a shift in obesity care in Indonesia,” she added.

Amid these challenges, education and access to reliable information are essential to help people and patients make better health decisions. As part of its education commitment, Novo Nordisk provides a health information platform via NovoCare.id. On NovoCare, the public can find easy-to-understand information on obesity, diabetes, and other chronic diseases, including healthy lifestyle tips, myth-versus-fact explanations about obesity, and guidance on discussing treatment decisions with healthcare professionals based on trusted information.

Novo Nordisk’s GLP‑1 medicine for weight management is a prescription medicine provided following consultation with a healthcare professional and used as an adjunct to a reduced-calorie diet and increased physical activity to help adults with obesity—or overweight with weight-related conditions—manage their weight.[2] Obesity is often associated with other conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, elevated blood lipids, heart disease, and joint pain. Across multiple clinical studies, GLP‑1 therapy for weight management has been shown to help many patients achieve significant weight loss and improve several risk factors related to cardiovascular and metabolic health.

About Novo Nordisk

Novo Nordisk is a leading global healthcare company founded in 1923 and headquartered in Denmark. Our purpose is to drive change to defeat serious chronic diseases built upon our heritage in diabetes. We do so by pioneering scientific breakthroughs, expanding access to our medicines, and working to prevent and ultimately cure disease. Novo Nordisk employs about 78,500 people in 80 countries and markets its products in around 170 countries. For more information, visit novonordisk.id, Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube. 

References

[1]  Arnaut T, Kazantseva K, Kvist K, et al. Changes in Alcohol/Tobacco Spending Among Users and Non-Users of Semaglutide for Weight Management. Poster presentation at ObesityWeek® 2025; 4–7 November 2025; Georgia World Congress Center (GWCC), Atlanta, Georgia, USA.

[2] Wegovy® Summary of Product Characteristics. Available at: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/product-information/wegovy-epar-product-information_en.pdf. Last accessed: October 2025.

 

Gem Sri Lanka 2026 Concludes Successfully: Platinum Sponsor GUILD Propels Industry Growth

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Advertorial Desk
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Colombo, Sri Lanka – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 January 2026 – From January 7 to 9, Gem Sri Lanka 2026 was successfully held at the Shangri-La Hotel in the heart of Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. Her Excellency Dr. Harini Amarasuriya, Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, attended the official opening ceremony as the distinguished guest. From its beginnings as a specialized industry exhibition, GEM SRILANKA has grown into a landmark international event.

Gem Sri Lanka 2026 Concludes Successfully: Platinum Sponsor GUILD Propels Industry Growth
Gem Sri Lanka 2026 Concludes Successfully: Platinum Sponsor GUILD Propels Industry Growth

GEM SRILANKA is organized by the Ceylon Gem and Jewellery Traders Association (CGJTA).It has over 2,000 members covering key gem-producing regions in Sri Lanka, including Beruwala, Ratnapura, and Galle, providing a professional platform for gemstone industry professionals worldwide to network, collaborate, and explore the world of gemstones in depth.

The exhibition set new records in both scale and attendance

This edition of the exhibition featured a total of 150 booths, attracting a large number of local and international buyers. Mr. Sunil Handunnetti, Minister of Industry and Enterprise Development of Sri Lanka; Rizwan Naeem, Vice Chairman of CGJTA,Mr. Andrew Lucas, President of GUILD Gemology Education and active field gemologist, Ms Ruby Liu, President of GUILD Gem Laboratories, and other distinguished guests attended the event.

At the Gem Sri Lanka 2026 gemstone exhibition, exhibitors comprehensively showcased their professional expertise across all stages of the gemstone industry value chain. Covering key areas such as mining, cutting, polishing, and heat treatment, the exhibition was guided by the core values of integrity and transparency, ensuring consistently high professional standards throughout. At the same time, this edition presented an immersive experience showcasing the long and diverse history of Sri Lanka’s gemstone industry, with detailed introductions to the country’s renowned sapphires and star sapphires. A dedicated premium exhibition zone was also curated to highlight exceptional sapphires and high-end colored gemstone collections.

According to data from GUILD Gem Laboratories, the number of gemstone samples submitted during the exhibition reached a new record high, directly reflecting the strong activity of the Sri Lanka trading market and further indicating a recovery trend in the global gemstone market at the beginning of the year.”The colored gemstone market in 2025 continues to evolve in terms of supply chains and color preferences. Although the market faced numerous supply-side challenges in 2024, against the backdrop of current conditions in the diamond market and rising gold prices, colored gemstones still demonstrate strong potential to gain increased market share.”Andrew Lucas noted in the opening of the GUILD 2025 Colored Gemstone Market Report.

Sri Lanka — a world-renowned gemstone trading hub

Sri Lanka has a thriving and highly valuable trade in precious and semi-precious gemstones, earning international recognition for its high-quality gemstones as well as its exceptional cutting and finishing craftsmanship. The gemstones produced in Sri Lanka consistently meet—and often exceed—the highest industry standards.

The country has long occupied a pivotal position in the global gemstone industry, serving as an integrated global hub encompassing mining, cutting, treatment, and trade. Buyers from major markets such as Japan, India, and China continue to travel to Sri Lanka, where they can observe the entire colored gemstone supply chain. Supported by a deep-rooted gemstone culture, extensive expertise, and an innovative mindset, Sri Lanka has developed a keen understanding of global market dynamics.

In recent years, by combining rough gemstone sourcing from Africa, Madagascar, and Southeast Asia with its renowned local cutting craftsmanship, Sri Lanka has further strengthened its position in the global gemstone industry.

GUILD Made a Dual-Booth Appearance at Gem Sri Lanka

As an internationally recognized gemstone testing authority, GUILD has long been committed to the study of field gemology, collecting A-type reference samples from major mining regions around the world to provide global industry professionals with accurate, authoritative, and efficient testing services. Since the inception of the exhibition, GUILD has served as a Platinum Sponsor of Gem Sri Lanka for three consecutive editions. At this year’s event, GUILD made its first-ever dual-booth appearance, featuring both GUILD Gem Laboratories and GUILD Gemology Education.

At the GUILD Gem Laboratories booth, a team of senior gemologists from GUILD Beruwala offered 24–48 hour rapid testing services to exhibitors and buyers, covering gemstone identification, treatment detection, and related services, providing reliable support for global gemstone trading and procurement. During the exhibition, the 2025 GUILD Colored Gemstone Market Report was also launched in limited quantities, serving as an important reference for industry trends and market direction.

Making its debut, the GUILD Gemology Education booth focused on the knowledge needs of professionals from both domestic and international markets, comprehensively presenting GUILD’s education and training programs as well as its overseas study tours. The booth showcased the English editions of Journey of Gems, professional color charts, and the combined volume of Microscopic Wonders: A Gemstone Inclusion Atlas, all of which were warmly received by industry professionals from around the world.

Focusing on a global perspective, driving the advancement of industry development

GUILD will continue to deepen its presence in the international gemstone market, leveraging its professional expertise to support the transparency and standardization of the global gemstone industry. Working together with industry peers, GUILD aims to explore new possibilities in source-origin trade and looks forward to even more highlights at the next edition of Gem Sri Lanka.

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

Banyan Group Unveils New Residential Brand: Bellaguna

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Advertorial Desk
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The brand’s first project is Bellaguna Lake Residences Lotus, offering contemporary lakeside condos at iconic Laguna Phuket


PHUKET, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 January 2026 – Banyan Group, a pioneer in purpose-driven hospitality and upscale branded residences, is proud to announce the launch of Bellaguna, its newest residential brand.

Banyan Group Unveils New Residential Brand: Bellaguna

Created to meet the aspirations of modern global homeowners seeking a refined and purpose-driven lifestyle, Bellaguna is a collection of premium residences designed for year-round living. Professionally managed by Banyan Group yet separate from hotel inventory, Bellaguna provides residents with a flexible lifestyle while maintaining the high-quality environments the Group is known for.

“Bella” reflects the beauty of the residences and their surroundings, while “Laguna” celebrates the iconic Laguna Phuket – Southeast Asia’s leading integrated resort. Together, the name Bellaguna represents a brand where timeless elegance, tranquillity, and purposeful living come together.

“Standalone premium residences are a rapidly expanding part of our business, and it was important to create a dedicated identity for this segment,” said Stuart Reading, Managing Director of Banyan Group Residences. “Bellaguna marks a new chapter in our evolution, offering refined homes that answer the needs of today’s international lifestyles while maintaining the service standards Banyan Group is known for.”

While some Bellaguna developments will be located within Laguna Phuket, the brand will operate independently across a variety of appealing destinations.

Banyan Group continues to lead in branded residential development, ranked No.1 in Asia by volume and 5th globally. In Phuket alone, the Group anticipates launching up to USD 1 billion in new luxury residential projects over the next two to three years.

Introducing Bellaguna Lake Residences – Lotus

The first development under the new brand is Bellaguna Lake Residences – Lotus, a chic contemporary project set beside a shimmering lake within Laguna Phuket, steps from Bang Tao Beach.

Five elegantly elongated buildings, inspired by the clean lines of modern yachts offer panoramic lagoon and sea views. Dark, wave-like façades and generous terraces and balconies echo the flowing curves of the lake, blending natural beauty with understated luxury.

Residential options include one- to three-bedroom condominiums and two- to three-bedroom penthouses with private rooftop pools.

Each building features a rooftop infinity pool and private cabanas, while landscaped gardens feature relaxation spaces, play zones, and a signature boardwalk and dock connecting residents to Laguna Phuket’s shuttle ferries.

Ownership benefits include:

  • First-year complimentary property management and insurance
  • Exclusive discounts through the Laguna Advantage Programme
  • Benefits at Banyan Group properties worldwide through the Sanctuary Club,
  • Membership to the new RAVA Beach Club, Thailand’s largest beachfront private club at Laguna Phuket

Set within Asia’s premier integrated resort, residents enjoy world-class dining, spas, boutiques, Laguna Golf Phuket, and secure family-friendly living just 30 minutes from Phuket International Airport.

A Lifestyle Investment with Professional Rental Services

While designed for year-round living, Bellaguna residences also offer investment potential through Banyan Living, Banyan Group’s new rental platform, delivering professionally managed residential hospitality with flexibility for owners and hotel-level service standards for guests.

Hashtag: #BanyanGroup #Bellaguna

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

TÜV Rheinland Helps Electronics Supply Chains Enhance Traceability with Recycled Material Verification Across Partners

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Advertorial Desk
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TAIPEI, Jan. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — With electronic devices being replaced at an ever-faster pace, global volumes of consumer e-waste continue to climb. In response, governments and regulators worldwide are rolling out stricter requirements for waste recovery and incentivizing the use of recycled inputs to curb resource consumption and environmental impact.

To help the electronics sector navigate this shift, TÜV Rheinland has introduced a closed-loop recycled material verification process designed specifically for the industry’s large and complex supply chains. Aligned with ISO 14021, EN 15343, and ISO 22095, the program establishes a transparent, traceable framework that covers every stage—from waste collection to the integration of recycled materials into new products.

According to Ryan Hsiang, Vice General Manager, People and Business Assurance at TÜV Rheinland Taiwan, “Closed-loop recycling not only increases resource efficiency; it also accelerates advances in recycling technologies and enhances precision in upstream supply chain, making it a vital enabler of the electronics industry’s sustainability transition.”

Several electronics supply chain partners have already implemented the third-party verification process through a recent pilot project supported by TÜV Rheinland. The initiative involves multiple specialist recyclers working across different material streams. GuangDong TPIPLASTIC Co., Ltd. oversees plastics recycling, converting dismantled, sorted, crushed, washed, and re-granulated materials into high-quality recycled plastics.

The electronic components are dismantled by Australia’s SPC E-Cycle, and the printed circuit boards within are processed by Mint Innovation using their proprietary low-impact technology to produce 100% brand-exclusive closed-loop recycled copper, which is then refined into copper strips by Ningbo Jintian Copper (Group) Co., Ltd. before entering downstream production. The resulting materials are now being used in new components, demonstrating a functioning closed-loop model that helps reduce the environmental burden of e-waste.

Audits conducted by TÜV Rheinland confirmed that recycled ABS, PMMA, rubber, copper met required standards for both traceability and material quality across all stages. “This pilot not only elevates recycled material management within the supply chain; it also supports broader industry adoption of recycled inputs and accelerates progress toward a circular economy,” Hsiang added. “We look forward to collaborating with additional partners to scale this supply chain management approach.”

 

DAR AL ARKAN, IN COLLABORATION WITH DAR GLOBAL AND THE TRUMP ORGANIZATION, TO DEVELOP TRUMP INTERNATIONAL GOLF CLUB, WADI SAFAR – THE FIRST OF TWO LANDMARK PROJECTS IN RIYADH

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Advertorial Desk
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DIRIYAH, Saudi Arabia, Jan. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Stemming from the joint announcement made on December 9, 2024, regarding the launch of two Trump-branded developments in Riyadh, Dar Al Arkan in collaboration with Dar Global and The Trump Organization are proud to reveal the first of those landmark projects, The Trump International Golf Club, Wadi Safar, a sprawling 2.6 million square meter site in Wadi Safar, the exclusive masterplan being developed by Diriyah Company.

 

DAR AL ARKAN, IN COLLABORATION WITH DAR GLOBAL AND THE TRUMP ORGANIZATION, TO DEVELOP TRUMP INTERNATIONAL GOLF CLUB, WADI SAFAR - THE FIRST OF TWO LANDMARK PROJECTS IN RIYADH
DAR AL ARKAN, IN COLLABORATION WITH DAR GLOBAL AND THE TRUMP ORGANIZATION, TO DEVELOP TRUMP INTERNATIONAL GOLF CLUB, WADI SAFAR – THE FIRST OF TWO LANDMARK PROJECTS IN RIYADH

 

The site will be home to the Trump International Golf Club, Wadi Safar, a world-class gated community featuring a Trump-branded championship golf course, a luxury Trump hotel, and premium residences overlooking the region’s dramatic wadis and the golf vistas. Trump International Golf Club, Wadi Safar will blend world-class hospitality, architecture, and lifestyle in a setting that pays tribute to the cultural and natural heritage of the Kingdom.

Eric Trump, Executive Vice President of The Trump Organization, said: “We are proud to expand our presence with this landmark development in Wadi Safar. Trump International Golf Club, Wadi Safar will redefine luxury and excellence in the region, setting a new standard that reflects the brand’s enduring commitment to quality, prestige and timeless elegance. We look forward to creating a destination that complements the rich heritage of the region while delivering a global standard of luxury living.”

Yousef Al Shelash, Chairman of Dar Al Arkan, said: “This new project represents a vision to deliver a destination that captures the prestige and the legacy of the Trump brand. With Dar Global leading the development, we are confident this will become a flagship destination not just for Saudi Arabia, but for the world.”

Ziad El Chaar, CEO of Dar Global, added: “Dar Global is proud to collaborate with Diriyah Company and Dar Al Arkan on the development of Trump International Golf Club, Wadi Safar. We have delivered landmark projects across Europe and the GCC in partnership with globally recognized luxury brands. Bringing this experience to the Diriyah project, we will deliver a destination that combines heritage, elegance, and world-class standards, making Trump International Golf Club, Wadi Safar a truly iconic address.”

Dr.stretch Malaysia partners with NHA athlete Saif Nordin, brings elite mobility and performance to all Malaysians

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Advertorial Desk
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KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, Jan. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Dr.stretch Malaysia, the country’s leading specialised assisted-stretching brand, is proud to announce a new partnership with national fencer Saif Nordin, one of Malaysia’s most promising young athletes who is also a News Hub Asia (NHA) athlete. This collaboration supports Dr.stretch’s mission to make professional mobility, recovery, and performance care accessible to Malaysians of all ages and activity levels.

Malaysian fencer Saif Nordin (left), with Azri bin Khairudin, Area Manager at Dr.stretch Malaysia (right), at the partnership commemoration session held at Dr.stretch in Sunway 163 Mall, Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. | Photo by News Hub Asia
Malaysian fencer Saif Nordin (left), with Azri bin Khairudin, Area Manager at Dr.stretch Malaysia (right), at the partnership commemoration session held at Dr.stretch in Sunway 163 Mall, Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. | Photo by News Hub Asia

Data suggests that across Malaysia, poor mobility and insufficient recovery practices are quietly becoming an economic challenge. According to the Malaysian Employers Federation (MEF), companies recorded 10.7 million lost working days in a single year due to sick leave. This point to an opportunity to improve on a national basis. People are simply not moving enough or not moving properly, resulting in preventable pain, stiffness, fatigue, and chronic discomfort and ultimately days off work.

Dr.stretch aims to address exactly this challenge. By improving range of motion, reducing physical strain, and promoting proactive recovery, assisted stretching offers a practical solution for athletes and everyday Malaysians alike supporting performance while reducing preventable work-day loss.

As an emerging figure in Malaysian sports, Saif Nordin embodies the discipline, precision, and physical intelligence central to Dr.stretch’s philosophy. His sport, fencing, demands speed, accuracy, balance, and exceptional mobility making him an ideal representative for the brand’s focus on long-term movement health.

“We are delighted to support Saif’s journey as an athlete,” said Azri bin Khairudin, Area Manager at Dr.stretch Malaysia. “His commitment to excellence reflects what we believe in: that mobility and proper recovery are essential foundations for anyone striving to reach their peak. In fencing, every movement must be fast, accurate, and fluid, a perfect match with what we aim to achieve at Dr.stretch.”

“As a brand, our focus has always been to help people move better,” continued Azri. “The same techniques that help elite athletes like Saif enhance flexibility, reduce injury risks, and perform at higher levels are equally beneficial for corporate professionals, students, active individuals, and those seeking relief from daily aches. Assisted stretching isn’t just for athletes, it’s for everyone.”

For Saif, this partnership represents an important step in his development. “I’m honoured to collaborate with Dr.stretch Malaysia,” he shared. “Mobility and recovery form a huge part of my training routine. Working with the Dr.stretch team helps me stay flexible, strengthen my movement patterns, and prepare confidently for competitions. Many athletes underestimate the importance of flexibility but training smarter is just as important as training harder. Proper mobility work should be a priority for athletes at every level.”

To commemorate the partnership, Dr.stretch Malaysia hosted an official logo presentation and photo session at Dr.stretch at Sunway 163 Mall in Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur, featuring Saif Nordin alongside Azri, Dr.stretch’s Area Manager, who is also a qualified stretch trainer.

This collaboration further reinforces Dr.stretch Malaysia’s commitment to promoting better movement, athletic development, and community wellness. By working with public figures and athletes who champion mobility and longevity, the brand aims to inspire more Malaysians to take charge of their physical well-being.

For more information about Dr.stretch Malaysia or to book a session, please visit https://my.doctorstretch.com/. For media enquiries on Dr.stretch, contact Ms Riko Yoshida at rikodrstretch@gmail.com.

— ENDS —

About Dr.stretch

Dr.stretch’s origins are rooted in professional sports and performance therapy. The brand was founded on the belief that elite-level recovery techniques should not be limited to professional athletes. Drawing on methods used in competitive sports where poor mobility can mean lost medals, stalled careers, or chronic injury, Dr.stretch developed a specialised assisted-stretching methodology designed to improve flexibility, prevent strain, and enhance overall biomechanical efficiency. Today, those same principles are made accessible to the public, helping Malaysians move better, feel better, and perform better in their work and daily lives.

About Saif Nordin

Saif Nordin is part of Malaysia’s new wave of young sporting talent, a fencer with sharp instincts, clean technique, and the kind of discipline. Having represented Malaysia and Selangor across multiple competitive competitions, he will soon compete in the Cadet & Junior Asian Championships and the Cadet & Junior World Championships respectively. Saif is steadily carving out his place in the national fencing landscape. More than just an athlete, Saif is thoughtful about the science behind performance. He believes mobility, recovery, and smart training are just as important as time spent on the piste. It’s this balanced, modern approach to sport that makes him a standout voice among Malaysia’s next generation of competitors. In October 2024, Saif joined forces with regional news portal, News Hub Asia (NHA), through a media partnership. The Saif x NHA partnership is part of a larger effort by NHA to support young Asian athletes with a focus on bridging gaps between talent and opportunities in sports.

Laos-China Railway Enables Record-Breaking Journey from Singapore to Portugal

By
Thongsavanh Souvannasane
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This photo is used for representational purpose only.

The world’s longest train journey now runs from Singapore to Portugal, covering nearly 19,000 kilometers across 13 countries and linking Southeast Asia to Western Europe entirely by rail.

The Laos-China Railway (LCR) is a key player in this achievement, linking Southeast Asia and China’s extensive rail network. 

The Route in a Nutshell

The journey begins in Singapore and travels north through Malaysia and Thailand before entering Laos. 

From Laos’ Vientiane, passengers board the LCR to Kunming, China, passing through the UNESCO World Heritage city of Luang Prabang. 

The route then continues across China to Beijing, follows the Trans-Siberian Railway through Mongolia and Russia, to Moscow, and proceeds westward through Europe, passing through Belarus, Poland, Germany, France, and Spain, before reaching the final destination of Lisbon, Portugal.

Traveling back-to-back, the entire journey takes approximately 21 days, with the longest single leg being the seven-day, 7,622-kilometer Moscow-Beijing segment.

Laos-China Railway: The Crucial Connection

Inaugurated in December 2021, the 420-kilometer Laos-China Railway has transformed Laos from a “landlocked” to a “land-linked” nation. The railway has already carried over 62 million passengers on the Vientiane-Kunming route and more than 12 million passengers within Laos.

Most significantly, the LCR provides the critical overland connection between Southeast Asia and China’s extensive rail network, enabling seamless travel from Singapore all the way to Europe. 

Without this railway linking Vientiane to Kunming, the Singapore-to-Portugal route would not be possible.

Currently, a 15-kilometer bus connection near Vientiane links the LCR with the Laos-Thailand Railway. However, construction of a new railway bridge across the Mekong River between Vientiane and Nong Khai will soon create a direct rail link, further enhancing connectivity as part of Laos’ transformation into a regional transportation hub under China’s Belt and Road Initiative.

Challenges and the Future

While this route represents a unique route in global rail connectivity, geopolitical tensions present challenges. Since 2022, the suspension of rail services has blocked direct train travel across Russia’s western borders, requiring travelers to make alternative arrangements.

CAYIN AI: Revolutionizing Creativity and Global Communication

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Advertorial Desk
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TAIPEI, Jan. 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — CAYIN Technology, the world’s trusted provider of digital signage solutions, today announced a breakthrough update for SMP, CMS-WS, and CMS-SE. By embedding advanced AI into the signage ecosystem, CAYIN transforms how businesses create, translate, and manage content, ensuring every screen delivers maximum impact with minimum effort.

CAYIN AI: Revolutionizing Creativity and Global Communication
CAYIN AI: Revolutionizing Creativity and Global Communication

CAYIN Technology’s latest update redefines the efficiency of digital signage by merging AI-driven creativity with robust management platforms. By enabling instant Text-to-Image generation, Image-to-Text copywriting, and simultaneous Multilingual AI Alerts, CAYIN empowers brands to maintain fresh, engaging, and safe communication. This intelligence is fully integrated across the high-performance SMP players, the versatile CMS-WS (managing 1,000+ devices), and the enterprise-grade CMS-SE, offering a reliable and foresighted ecosystem for any business scale.

The AI Advantage: Smarter, Faster, Fresh Content

This update transforms digital signage into a smart creative engine, offering key benefits:

  • Infinite Creativity with AI Image ToolsStop waiting for graphic designers. Users can now generate professional visuals from simple text or refresh existing assets into new styles instantly. This allows brands to update content frequently, ensuring displays stay fresh and engaging to capture audience attention every day.
  • Intelligent Strategy with Image-to-Text AI analyzes visual assets and suggests compelling copy, helping marketers craft smarter messages that resonate with their target audience while reducing manual workload.
  • Crisis Management with Multilingual AI Alerts Go global instantly. The AI translation engine doesn’t just localize ads; it powers a Multilingual Alert System that displays critical emergency notifications in multiple languages simultaneously. This ensures safety and clarity for international audiences in any environment.

A Unified Ecosystem: SMP, CMS-WS, and CMS-SE

Following the AI integration, CAYIN continues to enhance its reliable hardware and software lineup:

  • SMP Players: Renowned for their strong industrial-grade quality and 24/7 stability, all SMP models now support AI-driven content creation. Users can generate visuals, copy, and alerts with just a few clicks, ensuring a consistent, high-quality user experience across all dedicated hardware.
  • CMS-WS: This All-in-One Management System is the ideal cross-platform server, managing up to 1,000 devices including Smart TVs, Android systems, and PCs. Now upgraded with AI-powered tools, it allows users to streamline content creation and distribution across diverse hardware and budgets.
  • CMS-SE: Designed for enterprise-grade large-scale deployments, CMS-SE supports up to 4,000 players with robust failover mechanisms. The addition of AI-driven analytics and predictive insights helps large organizations optimize their signage strategies for maximum global impact.

The Future of Digital Signage: AI-Powered Efficiency

This AI update represents a significant milestone in CAYIN’s commitment to innovation and customer value. By integrating advanced AI capabilities, CAYIN not only enhances the functionality of its products but also empowers businesses to achieve greater efficiency and impact in their digital signage strategies. The result is a smarter, faster, and more engaging signage ecosystem that drives measurable success for organizations worldwide.

CAYIN Technology in Brief

CAYIN Technology is a 22-year professional digital signage solution and software developer from Taiwan. By offering a complete portfolio of appliance-based digital signage solutions, CAYIN dedicates itself to being a reliable partner to clients worldwide and has successfully set up various applications globally. In order to best facilitate the deployment of its products, the company also provides tailored services to satisfy the ever-growing market demand for almost limitless applications.

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