CHENGDU, China, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Chengdu, capital of Southwest China’s Sichuan province, has cemented its status as a leading global innovation hub, climbing to 24th position in the 2025 Global Innovation Index, as the city delivered on national sci-tech ambitions during the 14th Five-Year Plan period(2021-25).

A key national strategy has been to develop the Chengdu–Chongqing region into an influential sci-tech innovation hub. The Western (Chengdu) Science City has emerged as a cornerstone of this transformation, establishing a high-level innovation ecosystem comprising one national laboratory, four national innovation centers, 10 major science infrastructures, and four Tianfu laboratories.

Some 96 national innovation platforms — including the National Precision Medicine Industrial Innovation Center and National Supercomputing Center — have set up operations, alongside 27 national-level research institutions and 65 collaborative innovation projects launched with universities and research institutes.

Chengdu moved early to cultivate future industries, releasing implementation guidelines for 24 sectors including humanoid robotics and flexible display technology. The city further accelerated this push in July this year with a 100 billion yuan ($14.1 billion) future industry fund targeting hard-tech startups.

Online and offline service systems represented by “Sci-Tech Express plus Sci-Tech Island” have streamlined the commercialization of innovations. The offline Sci-Tech Island hosts 102 service providers offering 104 types of services, while the online Sci-Tech Express platform has served sci-tech enterprises more than 200,000 times.

From the Chengdu 2021 World University Games, where over 170 tech products enhanced venues and viewing experiences, to AI-powered rehabilitation robots now serving elderly residents, innovation has become tangible across urban life. The city has also deployed an intelligent safety monitoring network covering underground pipelines, bridges and tunnels.

Chengdu’s innovation landscape now includes more than 14,500 national high-tech enterprises and 354 national-level “little giant” firms, or elite SMEs that specialize in niche sectors, according to the Chengdu Science and Technology Bureau.

The city has established five national innovation and entrepreneurship demonstration bases, 76 national incubators and maker spaces, as well as another 76 provincial and municipal incubators hosting 5,702 in-progress projects. Talent initiatives have helped secure the “China’s Best Talent-Attracting City” title for six consecutive years.

Policy breakthroughs in intellectual property rights have spurred 36 local universities and research institutes to complete over 2,000 achievement ownership verifications, incubating 588 enterprises with nearly 21 billion yuan in social investment.

HONG KONG, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Established in 2001, the JESSICA Most Successful Women Awards aim to honour women across diverse industries for their outstanding achievements and contributions to society and the world. The 2026 Awards are now officially open for public nominations — see the details below:

This Year’s Theme: Transform Beyond

We are excited to announce that nominations for the 2026 JESSICA Most Successful Women Awards are now officially open!

This year’s theme, “Transform Beyond,” celebrates women who go beyond the boundaries, drive transformation, and create lasting impact — inspiring others to go further and achieve more.

Let’s nominate the exceptional women in your life whose success stories deserve to be celebrated. Regardless of their industry or organisation, help us showcase their achievements and honour their dedication and influence, also to inspire the next generation and continue this legacy of positivity.

Nomination Details:

• Nomination Link: Submit Your Nomination
• Nomination Period: From now to 31 Dec, 2025
• Previous Awardees’ Stories: Read More

Award Timeline:

• Nov 2025 — Nomination Open
• 31 Dec 2025 — Nomination Deadline
• Jan 2026 — Shortlist Announcement & Public Voting
• Feb 2026 — Awardee Announcement
• Jun 2026 — Awards Ceremony

Who Should Be Nominated?

We welcome nominations for exceptional women from all walks of life, including business leaders, entrepreneurs, artists, philanthropists, and public servants. If you know a remarkable woman who has demonstrated leadership, creativity, and the ability to inspire others, nominate her today!

We welcome nominations for women who have:

• Demonstrated excellence and leadership in their industry/field.
• Made significant contributions to the community.
• Pioneered innovations or changes in their sector.
• Served as an inspiration or role model for other women.

Staying True to Our Mission: Empowering Women

Over the past 25 years, JESSICA have honoured nearly 300 remarkable women from diverse regions and fields. Their stories prove that the path to success is not defined by a single formula but is instead built on individual talent, relentless effort, and perseverance. These awardees have not only achieved extraordinary success in their careers but have also inspired younger generations, supported their peers, and given back to society.

Looking ahead, JESSICA remains committed to creating an impactful community of women, fostering cross-industry collaboration, generating new opportunities, and empowering women to achieve their aspirations in every field.

Submit your nomination today, and celebrate the brilliance and achievements of more exceptional women together!

For enquiry:
The JESSICA Company Marketing Team
M: +852 55007792, E: marketing@thejessicacompany.com 

TaiwanPlus invites viewers into the fields, farms, and communities that nurture the island’s ingredients

TAIPEI, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — TaiwanPlus is pleased to present “Straight to the Source” Season 2, taking viewers on an in-depth journey through Taiwan’s rich food culture and the care that goes into producing it. The series explores how ingredients from around Taiwan are transformed into foods and products that are central to the nation’s heritage. Through stunning and immersive cinematography, the show captures the dedication, skill, and patience behind every step of the process.

Building on the foundation of the first season, the second season of “Straight to the Source” takes a closer look at how raw ingredients are processed, focusing on the careful work of cleaning, shaping, drying, and preserving. These practices are often passed down through generations and reveal the artistry and cultural meaning behind many of Taiwan’s most beloved ingredients.

Producer Yenming Lai explained, “Our goal with ‘Straight to the Source’ is to show viewers that food is more than something to eat. Every ingredient has a story and a connection to the environment. We want people to see the care and skill behind it and to appreciate the culture behind every meal.”

Through visually rich sequences, viewers can see the colors, textures, and shapes of ingredients as they are handled and prepared. From the sheen of fresh produce to the intricate details of handcrafted foods, the cinematography emphasizes the beauty in everyday practices that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Through all these themes, “Straight to the Source” aims to inspire viewers to think differently about the food they eat.

Watch “Straight to the Source” now on the TaiwanPlus website and the TaiwanPlus Docs YouTube channel, with new episodes released weekly.

About TaiwanPlus
TaiwanPlus is the premier global provider of English-language news and infotainment from Taiwan — offering trustworthy news coverage, informative perspectives on cross-strait relations, plus inspiring lifestyle content focusing on food, travel and entertainment. Proud to be based in one of Asia’s most vibrant democracies, our diverse team of journalists and producers is committed to delivering independent news and stories that inform, enlighten and inspire audiences worldwide. Get a global perspective backed by a Taiwanese point of view on our website, mobile app, TV channel and various social media channels.

SINGAPORE, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Digital travel platform Agoda has released a list of must-visit bridges across Asia, showcasing the architectural beauty and cultural significance of these unique destinations. Bridges have long been more than just functional structures; they are symbols of connection, history, and artistry. For travelers, visiting these bridges offers a unique glimpse into the heart of a region, blending scenic views with cultural experiences.

Asia, with its diverse landscapes and rich history, is home to some of the world’s most stunning bridges. These structures not only serve as vital links but also as landmarks that tell stories of the past and present.

Here’s Agoda’s curated list of destinations with unique bridges that promise unforgettable travel experiences.

1. Dragon Bridge, Da Nang, Vietnam
   Known for its dragon-shaped design, this bridge breathes fire and water during weekend nights, creating a spectacular show. It spans the Han River, offering views of Da Nang’s vibrant cityscape. Nearby, visitors can explore the Marble Mountains or enjoy the local cuisine at the bustling night markets.
2. Lover’s Bridge, New Taipei City, Taiwan
   Located in the picturesque Fisherman’s Wharf, Lover’s Bridge is a romantic spot known for its sunset views. The bridge, illuminated at night, offers a magical atmosphere perfect for evening strolls. Nearby, travelers can explore the vibrant Tamsui Old Street, filled with local snacks and crafts, providing a taste of Taiwanese culture.
3. Seri Gemilang Bridge, Putrajaya, Malaysia
   This grand bridge is an architectural masterpiece, featuring intricate designs and majestic arches. It connects the core island of Putrajaya to the mainland, offering panoramic views of the city. Visitors can also explore the nearby Putra Mosque and the lush Putrajaya Botanical Gardens, making it a perfect blend of nature and architecture.
4. Banpo Bridge, Seoul, South Korea
   Famous for its Moonlight Rainbow Fountain, Banpo Bridge transforms into a vibrant spectacle at night. The bridge spans the Han River, offering views of Seoul’s skyline. Travelers can enjoy a leisurely walk along the riverbanks or visit the nearby Banpo Hangang Park, a popular spot for picnics and outdoor activities.
5. Longevity Bridge, Hong Kong
   This ornate, Chinese-style footbridge is surrounded by lovely coastal views and steeped in local legend, claiming to add three extra days to one’s life with each crossing. It offers a peaceful spot for reflection and is tucked away at the southern point of Repulse Bay Beach, where visitors can soak up the sun and explore nearby cultural landmarks.
6. Patapat Viaduct, Ilocos Norte, Philippines
   The Patapat Viaduct is a scenic coastal bridge that stretches along the northern tip of Luzon, offering breathtaking views of the rugged coastline and the West Philippine Sea. Travelers can enjoy the natural landscapes and explore nearby attractions such as the enchanting Kabigan Falls and the historic Cape Bojeador Lighthouse.

Jun Dong, Associate Vice President at Agoda, shared, “Bridges are gateways to new adventures and cultural discoveries. At Agoda, we make it easy for travelers to explore these unique architectural sights with our fantastic deals and seamless booking experiences. Whether you’re chasing sunsets or seeking cultural immersion, Agoda is your perfect travel companion.”

Agoda offers over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in the same booking. Discover the best deals on Agoda’s mobile app and start planning your next adventure today.

BARCELONA, Spain, Nov. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Smart City Expo Doha closed on November 26 after two days of intense discussions on how technology can transform cities in the Middle East into sustainable and livable environments. The leading event on the urban future in the MENA region is now preparing for its fifth edition, scheduled for April 28–29, 2026.

Next Smart City Doha will be held from April 28 to 29, 2026.

The 4th Smart City Expo Doha, organised by Fira de Barcelona and the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) of Qatar, focused on the impact of AI in fields such as mobility, design, and urban management. Under the slogan “Beyond connectivity: a digital solutions pathway to a smarter, thriving future”, the event brought together over 30 international experts and featured four standout keynotes: Kent Larson (MIT) on tech-driven urban design, Jesús Serrano on AI innovation, H.E. Reem Al Mansoori on Qatar’s urban transformation strategy, and FIFA ambassador Ghanim Al-Muftah with an inspiring message on resilience and inclusion.

The celebration of this local edition of SCE highlights Qatar’s leadership in smart and sustainable urban development across the MENA region. This prominent role is already evident through major national projects that translate the country’s digital vision into reality. Lusail City, one of the most advanced smart city developments in the region, integrates real-time data systems, intelligent mobility solutions, and connected urban services that enhance quality of life and operational efficiency. Similarly, Msheireb Downtown Doha stands as the first fully built smart and sustainable city district in Qatar, combining digital innovation, energy efficiency, and human-centred urban design. Together, these living examples demonstrate how Qatar is shaping future-ready urban environments and progressing toward the ambitions outlined in the Qatar National Vision 2030 and the nation’s Digital Agenda 2030.

This year, Smart City Expo Doha has been featured at MWC25 Doha. Organised by the GSMA in collaboration with MCIT, the first MWC event in the MENA (Middle East and Africa) region brought together over two days nearly 300 thought leaders and over 250 exhibitors and sponsors.

Smart City Expo in the world

Held annually in Barcelona, Smart City Expo World Congress is the world’s leading event on smart cities. SCE Doha is one of its local editions organized outside Spain in 2025, including those in New York, Curitiba, Puebla, Santiago del Estero, Santiago de Chile, Kuala Lumpur, Cartagena de Indias, and Tomorrow.City in Shanghai.