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Malaysia Joins the MICHELIN Guide’s Global Hotel Excellence with MICHELIN Key Distinctions

  • 2,457 hotels worldwide awarded One, Two, or Three MICHELIN Keys, setting a new global benchmark for hotel excellence
  • Debuting to the prestigious list for the first time are 4 hotels in Malaysia (1 Two MICHELIN Keys; and 3 One MICHELIN Key hotels)

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 October 2025 – The MICHELIN Guide proudly unveils its inaugural Global MICHELIN Keys Selection, recognizing 2,457 hotels across the globe for truly outstanding stays. Following the successful launch of MICHELIN Key distinctions in 15 destinations last year, MICHELIN Guide Inspectors have now evaluated over 7,000 hotels they are already recommending worldwide to identify the very best of them.

Photo MICHELIN Keys 2025

The most outstanding ones are awarded One, Two, or Three MICHELIN Keys — a new benchmark for excellence in lodging. These distinctions reflect the Guide’s rigorous standards and celebrate properties that offer remarkable experiences in design, service, and location. All selected hotels are bookable via The MICHELIN Guide’s website and mobile apps, with concierge services and VIP perks.

“125 years after its creation as a guide for discerning travelers, The MICHELIN Guide is once again redefining excellence — this time in the world of hospitality. Just as MICHELIN Stars celebrate the world’s most exceptional restaurants, MICHELIN Keys now honor hotels that offer truly remarkable stays, where design, service, and location come together to create unforgettable moments,” says Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of The MICHELIN Guide.

Malaysia: Showcasing Refined Stays Across City and Nature

Malaysia joins the MICHELIN Keys Selection with 4 hotels recognized: 1 Two MICHELIN Keys and 3 One MICHELIN Key hotels. Here are the standout properties that exemplify the country’s distinctive hospitality.

  • Four Seasons Resort Langkawi (Two MICHELIN Keys) is a beachfront sanctuary surrounded by nature, offering private villas, holistic wellness, and immersive cultural experiences.
  • Else Kuala Lumpur (One MICHELIN Key) is a design-forward hotel in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, offering contemporary luxury, curated art, and personalized service.
  • Four Seasons Hotel Kuala Lumpur (One MICHELIN Key) combines urban sophistication with panoramic views, featuring elegant rooms, fine dining, and a prime location near KLCC.
  • The RuMa Hotel and Residences (One MICHELIN Key) offers understated luxury with Malaysian charm, spacious suites, and a tranquil ambiance in the city center.

The MICHELIN Keys: A New Global Standard

MICHELIN Keys are awarded based on five universal criteria, evaluating the overall hospitality experience rather than individual amenities. The distinctions are:

  • One MICHELIN Key: A very special stay with character and exceptional service.
  • Two MICHELIN Keys: An exceptional stay with unique charm and a strong sense of place.
  • Three MICHELIN Keys: An extraordinary stay offering the pinnacle of comfort, service, and design.

In addition to the MICHELIN Keys, The MICHELIN Guide presents four Special Awards, recognizing hotels for achievements that transcend traditional categories and celebrating excellence and uniqueness in specific areas of hospitality.

  • MICHELIN Architecture & Design Award: Atlantis The Royal (Dubai, UAE)
  • MICHELIN Wellness Award: Bürgenstock Resort Switzerland
  • MICHELIN Local Gateway Award: La Fiermontina Ocean (Larache, Morocco)
  • MICHELIN Opening of the Year Award, supported by United Overseas Bank (UOB): The Burman Hotel (Tallinn, Estonia)

All MICHELIN Guide hotel recommendations are available on its website and app, where travelers can book directly with personalized travel expert services to enhance each stay.

Find the full Global MICHELIN Key selection and Special Awards here; guide.michelin.com/en/hotels.

The MICHELIN Guide Hotels Ceremony is supported by our Event Principal Partner, United Overseas Bank (UOB). Pictures of the event available here: Michelin Content Center


Hashtag: #MICHELIN

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

Philippines Joins the MICHELIN Guide’s Global Hotel Excellence with MICHELIN Key Distinctions

  • 2,457 hotels worldwide awarded One, Two, or Three MICHELIN Keys, setting a new global benchmark for hotel excellence
  • Debuting to the prestigious list for the first time are 5 hotels in the Philippines, each awarded One MICHELIN Key

MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 October 2025 – The MICHELIN Guide proudly unveils its inaugural Global MICHELIN Keys Selection, recognizing 2,457 hotels across the globe for truly outstanding stays. Following the successful launch of MICHELIN Key distinctions in 15 destinations last year, MICHELIN Guide Inspectors have now evaluated over 7,000 hotels they are already recommending worldwide to identify the very best of them.

Photo MICHELIN Keys 2025

The most outstanding ones are awarded One, Two, or Three MICHELIN Keys — a new benchmark for excellence in lodging. These distinctions reflect the Guide’s rigorous standards and celebrate properties that offer remarkable experiences in design, service, and location. All selected hotels are bookable via The MICHELIN Guide’s website and mobile apps, with concierge services and VIP perks.

“125 years after its creation as a guide for discerning travelers, The MICHELIN Guide is once again redefining excellence — this time in the world of hospitality. Just as MICHELIN Stars celebrate the world’s most exceptional restaurants, MICHELIN Keys now honor hotels that offer truly remarkable stays, where design, service, and location come together to create unforgettable moments,” says Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of The MICHELIN Guide.

Philippines: Celebrating Distinctive Hotel Experiences

The Philippines joins the MICHELIN Keys Selection with 5 hotels recognized, each awarded One MICHELIN Key. Here are the properties that exemplify the country’s growing appeal to discerning travelers.

  • Fairmont Makati and Raffles Makati in Manila offer refined urban luxury with elegant interiors, exceptional service, and access to world-class shopping and dining.
  • Amanpulo on Pamalican Island is a secluded paradise with pristine beaches, private villas, and holistic wellness experiences.
  • Dusit Thani Mactan Cebu Resort in Cebu offers a tropical beachfront escape with modern Thai-inspired design, lush gardens, and panoramic views of the Magellan Bay.
  • Nay Palad Hideaway Siargao in General Luna is a barefoot luxury retreat surrounded by nature, featuring bespoke villas, artisanal cuisine, and immersive island experiences.

The MICHELIN Keys: A New Global Standard

MICHELIN Keys are awarded based on five universal criteria, evaluating the overall hospitality experience rather than individual amenities. The distinctions are:

  • One MICHELIN Key: A very special stay with character and exceptional service.
  • Two MICHELIN Keys: An exceptional stay with unique charm and a strong sense of place.
  • Three MICHELIN Keys: An extraordinary stay offering the pinnacle of comfort, service, and design.

In addition to the MICHELIN Keys, The MICHELIN Guide presents four Special Awards, recognizing hotels for achievements that transcend traditional categories and celebrating excellence and uniqueness in specific areas of hospitality.

  • MICHELIN Architecture & Design Award: Atlantis The Royal (Dubai, UAE)
  • MICHELIN Wellness Award: Bürgenstock Resort Switzerland
  • MICHELIN Local Gateway Award: La Fiermontina Ocean (Larache, Morocco)
  • MICHELIN Opening of the Year Award, supported by United Overseas Bank (UOB): The Burman Hotel (Tallinn, Estonia)

All MICHELIN Guide hotel recommendations are available on its website and app, where travelers can book directly with personalized travel expert services to enhance each stay.

Find the full Global MICHELIN Key selection and Special Awards here; guide.michelin.com/en/hotels.

The MICHELIN Guide Hotels Ceremony is supported by our Event Principal Partner, United Overseas Bank (UOB). Pictures of the event available here: Michelin Content Center
Hashtag: #MICHELIN

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

Hong Kong & Macau Join the MICHELIN Guide’s Global Hotel Excellence with MICHELIN Key Distinctions

  • 2,457 hotels worldwide awarded One, Two, or Three MICHELIN Keys, setting a new global benchmark for hotel excellence
  • Debuting to the prestigious list for the first time are 18 hotels in Hong Kong & Macau (1 Three MICHELIN Keys; 6 Two MICHELIN Keys; and 11 One MICHELIN Key hotels)

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 October 2025 – The MICHELIN Guide proudly unveils its inaugural Global MICHELIN Keys Selection, recognizing 2,457 hotels across the globe for truly outstanding stays. Following the successful launch of MICHELIN Key distinctions in 15 destinations last year, MICHELIN Guide Inspectors have now evaluated over 7,000 hotels they are already recommending worldwide to identify the very best of them.

Photo MICHELIN Keys 2025

The most outstanding ones are awarded One, Two, or Three MICHELIN Keys — a new benchmark for excellence in lodging. These distinctions reflect the Guide’s rigorous standards and celebrate properties that offer remarkable experiences in design, service, and location. All selected hotels are bookable via The MICHELIN Guide’s website and mobile apps, with concierge services and VIP perks.

“125 years after its creation as a guide for discerning travelers, The MICHELIN Guide is once again redefining excellence — this time in the world of hospitality. Just as MICHELIN Stars celebrate the world’s most exceptional restaurants, MICHELIN Keys now honor hotels that offer truly remarkable stays, where design, service, and location come together to create unforgettable moments,” says Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of The MICHELIN Guide.

Hong Kong & Macau: Showcasing Distinctive Hospitality with MICHELIN Keys

Hong Kong and Macau debut in the MICHELIN Keys Selection with 18 honored hotels: 1 Three MICHELIN Keys, 6 Two MICHELIN Keys, and 11 One MICHELIN Key properties. Among them, three standouts reflect the region’s excellence in hospitality.

  • Rosewood Hong Kong (Three MICHELIN Keys) is a luxury waterfront hotel in Kowloon with refined interiors, panoramic views, and exceptional dining. Its contemporary design and residential warmth offer an elevated experience.
  • The Karl Lagerfeld (Two MICHELIN Keys) in Macau is a fashion-forward hotel designed by the late icon, featuring bold interiors, curated art, and luxurious amenities.
  • Hotel ICON Hong Kong (One MICHELIN Key) is a stylish urban retreat in Tsim Sha Tsui, known for modern design, innovative dining, warm service, and sustainability.

The MICHELIN Keys: A New Global Standard

MICHELIN Keys are awarded based on five universal criteria, evaluating the overall hospitality experience rather than individual amenities. The distinctions are:

  • One MICHELIN Key: A very special stay with character and exceptional service.
  • Two MICHELIN Keys: An exceptional stay with unique charm and a strong sense of place.
  • Three MICHELIN Keys: An extraordinary stay offering the pinnacle of comfort, service, and design.

In addition to the MICHELIN Keys, The MICHELIN Guide presents four Special Awards, recognizing hotels for achievements that transcend traditional categories and celebrating excellence and uniqueness in specific areas of hospitality.

  • MICHELIN Architecture & Design Award: Atlantis The Royal (Dubai, UAE)
  • MICHELIN Wellness Award: Bürgenstock Resort Switzerland
  • MICHELIN Local Gateway Award: La Fiermontina Ocean (Larache, Morocco)
  • MICHELIN Opening of the Year Award, supported by United Overseas Bank (UOB): The Burman Hotel (Tallinn, Estonia)

All MICHELIN Guide hotel recommendations are available on its website and app, where travelers can book directly with personalized travel expert services to enhance each stay.

Find the full Global MICHELIN Key selection and Special Awards here; guide.michelin.com/en/hotels.

The MICHELIN Guide Hotels Ceremony is supported by our Event Principal Partner, United Overseas Bank (UOB). Pictures of the event available here: Michelin Content Center

Hashtag: #MICHELIN

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

UAE launches first AI Centre of Excellence to boost local talent

SYDNEY, Oct. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Lakeba Group, the University of Wollongong in Dubai (UOWD), DoxAI, and AqlanX have launched the Gulf region’s first AI Centre of Excellence in Abu Dhabi, aiming to advance sovereign artificial intelligence capability in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Giuseppe Porcelli & Marisa Mastroianni
Giuseppe Porcelli & Marisa Mastroianni

The Centre will operate under the University of Wollongong’s Australian leadership, headed by Global Group CEO Marisa Mastroianni, and will leverage Australian-developed intellectual property and research frameworks.

The hub is designed to foster applied research, workforce development, and public-private collaboration within the UAE’s growing technology sector.

Regional cooperation

This new initiative has emerged following the reaffirmation of UAE-Australia bilateral ties.

During Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s September visit to the UAE, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan described a shared commitment between the two countries to sectors such as technology, education, investment, and sustainability.

The collaboration between Lakeba and its business ventures-long-time partners of Microsoft and Intel-underpins the project. According to the announcement, Lakeba is currently the only Australian company within the UAE’s NextGen FDI Consortium, signifying the increasing role of Australian technology within the region.

National vision

The Centre was established under the NextGen FDI initiative led by Dr. Thani bin Ahmed Al Zeyoudi, UAE Minister of Foreign Trade. The initiative seeks to encourage the private sector’s participation in shaping the nation’s digital transformation by developing local talent, enhancing research, and investing in digital infrastructure.

“Through the NextGen FDI Initiative, we are creating a vibrant, dynamic ecosystem that will help us achieve our national vision, attracting the best companies and talents to build their businesses here. The AI Centre of Excellence will serve as a hub for fostering future generations of AI talent and support the UAE’s efforts in developing the economy and technologies of the future,” said HE Dr. Al Zeyoudi.

The Centre of Excellence is intended to facilitate the UAE’s strategy to build sovereign AI assets, encompassing everything from data infrastructure and large language models to applications developed for regional needs. The core objective is to nurture homegrown AI capabilities, from research and development to the commercialisation of intellectual property aligned with local priorities.

Developing local talent and IP

The Centre aims to support local R&D, create talent pipelines, nurture startups, and drive the commercialisation of products rooted in the UAE’s culture and economic aspirations.

The focus includes the development of Arabic language models, automation platforms in sectors such as energy, healthcare, and education, and the creation of systems aligned with national objectives.

It will also serve as the official R&D headquarters for AqlanX, complementing the country’s National AI Strategy 2031 and broader digital economy plans.

Academic and business integration

Partnership roles have been clearly delineated: UOWD delivers academic and research leadership, Lakeba Group brings global venture-building experience and key technology partnerships, DoxAI provides automation tools and engineering expertise, and AqlanX directs commercialisation and infrastructure integration. The collaboration structure is intended to cover the spectrum from research through to commercial product deployment.

“This is a model of how academia, government, and enterprise must unite-not just to build AI-but to shape the future of civilization,” said Giuseppe Porcelli, CEO of Lakeba Group.

The Centre’s pillars include AI talent incubation via UOWD student and faculty involvement, sovereign AI R&D, commercialisation through joint ventures, and contributions to responsible AI policy and cyber-ethics. These initiatives are expected to help develop scalable, trusted AI solutions born within the UAE for both domestic and international markets.

Marisa Mastroianni, Global Group CEO at University of Wollongong, commented on the significance of the partnership.

“I am excited by the launch of this AI Centre of Excellence, a partnership that strengthens regional innovation and gives our students hands-on opportunities with world-class research, technology, and industry, equipping them to lead the future of AI.”

Demetrio Russo, Co-Founder and CEO of AqlanX, said, “This Centre marks a pivotal moment for the region’s AI future, accelerating innovation by developing home-grown talent, local IP, and deployable solutions that are born in the UAE and built for global scale. This is how nations achieve strategic autonomy through AI.”

Commenting on the Centre’s place within the UAE’s strategy, Marisa Mastroianni, Group CEO and Managing Director of UOW Global Enterprises, said, “The AI Centre of Excellence will strengthen the UAE innovation ecosystem. It will be an engine of opportunity for students, researchers, and industries, and will create enduring value for the nation and its people.”

Bilateral benefits

The Centre’s launch is described by its organisers as a milestone in the UAE’s progression from technology consumer to global technology contributor.

The project enhances UAE-Australia cooperation and is framed as part of a regional effort to build trusted alternatives to global technology platforms, emphasising sovereignty, inclusivity, and national value.

B.Grimm Power Joins Hands with Sawasdee Seoul Thai Festival 2025

Celebrating Thai Culture and Soft Power on the Global Stage While Highlighting the Success of Korea’s Clean Energy Transformation


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 October 2025 – B.Grimm Power, a leading global energy producer, proudly announced its successful role as the main sponsor of the “Sawasdee Seoul Thai Festival 2025,” a vibrant celebration of Thai culture held in Seoul, South Korea. The festival highlighted Thailand’s culture and soft power through food, crafts, tourism, health, and innovation, offering Korean audiences an authentic experience of Thainess. At the same time, the event underscored B.Grimm Power’s position as one of the Thai private companies investing in clean energy in South Korea.

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The “Sawasdee Seoul Thai Festival 2025,” now in its 10th edition, was organized by the Royal Thai Embassy in Seoul in collaboration with public and private partners from both Thailand and South Korea. Held on September 6–7, 2025, at Cheonggyecheon Plaza in the heart of Seoul, the festival carried the theme “Discover Thailand” and marked the largest Sawasdee Seoul Thai Festival to date. Featuring more than 80 booths showcasing Thai cuisine, crafts, tourism, health, and innovation, the festival also offered dynamic cultural highlights, including traditional Thai dance performances, a Muay Thai demonstration by world-renowned boxer Buakaw Banchamek, and a 593-meter parade celebrating the Thai community in Korea. Over the course of two days, the event drew thousands of Koreans and international visitors.

H.E. Tanee Sangrat, Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of Korea, who presided over the opening ceremony, remarked that the “Sawasdee Seoul Thai Festival 2025” serves as a powerful platform to showcase the charm of Thai culture, art, cuisine, and way of life. He emphasized that the festival also reflects Thailand’s spirit of innovation and creativity, which are driving the nation toward becoming a hub of global soft power. The success of the event, he noted, reflects Thailand’s potential to create valuable and heartfelt experiences for people, especially in South Korea, a nation that has always shared close cultural ties and a strong friendship with Thailand.

Mr. Dusit Manapan, Advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, described the festival as “the heart of Thai-Korean relations,” representing the sincere and unwavering bond between the peoples of both nations. He emphasized that the Sawasdee Seoul Thai Festival 2025 greatly demonstrates the power of arts and culture as a bridge for mutual understanding and knowledge exchange between Thai and Korean people. Representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, he expressed his confidence that the event will play a vital role in strengthening the close and sustainable ties between Thailand and South Korea in the years ahead.

Ms. Phatthanong Na Chiang Mai, Deputy Governor for Asia and South Pacific Marketing, Tourism Authority of Thailand, participated in this year’s event by bringing Thai charm and wellness tourism products to create an impression at the event, conveying the charm of Thai wellness tourism in a complete way through experiences of sight, taste, scent, sound and touch, providing relaxation and a comprehensive impression to visitors. The goal is to continuously increase both the number of tourists and revenue from the South Korean market, which is one of the top five markets for foreign tourists traveling to Thailand, and to promote all-year-round travel, while promoting outdoor activities as a selling point.

Dr. Chakrit Pichyangkul, Executive Director of the Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization) or CEA, stated, “As the government agency driving Thailand’s creative economy, CEA is dedicated to supporting Thai entrepreneurs and businesses in leveraging creativity, design, and innovation to enhance value and create new opportunities. We also promote Thai content in film, series, and music to reach a global audience. CEA showcased six outstanding Thai entrepreneurs and creators from the Creative House By CEA program, representing the design, fashion, and lifestyle sectors. This event effectively reflects CEA’s mission, highlights Thailand’s soft power.

At the festival, B.Grimm Power had a booth showcasing the rich flavors of Thai cuisine with popular dishes such as som tam (green papaya salad) and kor moo yang (Thai grilled pork neck), while also hosting an exhibition on the company’s clean energy investments and social initiatives. These included projects in tiger conservation, support for classical music, and the promotion of equestrian sports, offering the Korean public a broader perspective on the company’s contributions beyond energy. Mr. Tanee Sangrat, Ambassador of Thailand to the Republic of Korea, visited the B.Grimm Power booth and was briefed on its investments and community-focused activities.

Mr. Paitoon Paisalsukwittaya, Executive Vice President and Head of Project Development and Construction at B.Grimm Power and company representative at the “Sawasdee Seoul Thai Festival 2025,” noted that B.Grimm Power has long been interested in the Korean energy market, where it has invested in renewable energy projects. These include the Yeonggwang Nakwol and Yeonggwang Hanbit offshore wind farms, with a combined installed capacity of 740 MW, both of which are already connected to the grid in partnership with KEPCO. He added, “Our support and participation in the Sawasdee Seoul Thai Festival 2025 not only reflect B.Grimm Power’s commitment to advancing renewable energy in South Korea, but also underscore our dedication to strengthening the bonds between Thailand and Korea through cultural exchange and economic cooperation. B.Grimm Power believes that these collaborations will lay an important foundation for building a sustainable future for both nations.”

Hashtag: #BGrimmPower #EmpoweringtheWorldCompassionately #Partnership #SouthKorea #Seoul #SawasdeeSeoulThaiFestival2025 #주한태국대사관 #ThailandSociety

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

Fliggy Reports Surge in Booking Among College Students During 2025 National Day Holiday as Gen Z Travelers Dominate

Average order value for holiday activities grew 14.6% year-on-year

HANGZHOU, China, Oct. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Fliggy, a leading online travel services platform and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Alibaba Group (NYSE: BABA and HKEX: 9988), has unveiled insights into travel trends during the recent National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival holidays, highlighting sustained demand for richer experiences and far-flung destinations as well as growing enthusiasm for travel among college students. Data reveals 14.6% year-on-year (YoY) growth in the average order value for holiday activities, with Gen Z travelers leading the way in bookings.

This year’s holiday period saw a notable trend towards multi-destination travel, with per capita bookings for transportation services – such as flights and car rentals – rising 5% YoY. Per capita bookings for hotels, packaged tours, and tickets also increased 4.6% YoY as travelers explored over 180 countries and regions, marking a significant upswing from last year.

Fliggy’s AI travel assistant, AskMe, which launched in April, has quickly become a favorite among users. During the holiday period, its average daily user count surged over fivefold from its summer peak. Notably, on October 3rd, the AI audio guide feature – which offers professional on-the-go narratives via user photos of exhibits, scenic spots, and iconic landmarks – achieved its highest usage to date.

Gen Z and college students at the forefront

Fliggy’s data indicates that travelers born between 1995 and 1999, commonly known as post-95s or Gen Z, emerged as the dominant demographic this season, accounting for nearly a quarter of all bookings. Additionally, the post-05s – those born after 2005 – began traveling independently, with their bookings surging 61% YoY, the fastest growth among all demographics.

College students are shifting away from a more budget-focused, special forces-style travel, which typically features intensive itineraries limited to nearby cities. Instead, they are increasingly setting their sights on further flung destinations that promise richer experiences. Fliggy’s data reveals a notable 63% YoY increase in flight bookings among college students, with international journeys seeing an impressive spike of 110%. This enthusiasm contributed to a 31% rise in the average booking value compared to last year.

Emerging hotspots for travelers

Top domestic destinations included Shanghai, Beijing, Hangzhou, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Shenzhen, Chongqing, Nanjing, Wuhan, and Xi’an. Interestingly, third- and lower-tier cities in China are seeing robust growth in bookings as travelers seek a variety of experiences.

During this holiday period, new travel hotspots have made their mark. For example, Jingdezhen (Jiangxi) saw a 60% YoY increase in booking volume, while events such as the music festival in Luzhou (Sichuan) resulted in a 45% YoY rise in bookings. Long-distance travel destinations known for breathtaking scenery and tranquility – such as Zhaosu (Xinjiang), Tunchang (Hainan), Yichun (Heilongjiang), Bortala (Xinjiang), and Fushun (Liaoning) – also saw booking volumes more than double YoY.

For outbound travel, popular destinations included Japan, Hong Kong (SAR), Thailand, South Korea, Malaysia, Vietnam, France, Australia, the United States, and Indonesia. Bookings across many small- and mid-sized cities in East Asia, Southeast Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and Europe doubled, reflecting travelers’ shifting preferences from traditional tourist spots to more niche locations.

The rise of experiential travel

The way people enjoy long holidays is evolving. Thanks to China’s policy exempting small passenger cars from highway tolls, the number of self-driving travelers surged. Fliggy reported a striking 60% YoY increase in rental car orders during this holiday season. A notable trend is vacationers renting cars upon arrival by plane or high-speed train, making car rental outlets near airports and train stations the go-to spots for pick-up and drop-off.

This shift in travel habits is accompanied by an expanding array of leisure activities. Bookings for domestic experiences – such as show tickets, guided tours, folk culture encounters, specialty dining, and travel photography – skyrocketed by 78% YoY. For outbound destinations, bookings for adventurous activities such as diving, sea fishing, skydiving, and skiing also grew by nearly 30% YoY.

About Fliggy

Fliggy is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Alibaba Group (NYSE: BABA and HKEX: 9988 (HKD Counter) and 89988 (RMB Counter)), and is one of the leading online travel platforms in China. Fliggy places a strong emphasis on innovation in its products and services, catering to the increasingly personalized and diversified needs of consumers in both China and overseas markets.

Leveraging Fliggy’s advantage as part of the Alibaba ecosystem, merchants can benefit from the vast user base within the Group. Fliggy also collaborates with partners through a full-service management format, helping more merchants, especially small and medium-sized ones, easily and efficiently share opportunities enabled by digitalization.

Fliggy’s long-term strategy is to promote the digital transformation of the tourism industry, using an open platform and mechanisms to help the industry make better use of digital business infrastructure for their operations.

Patents power progress in Dalian

BEIJING, Oct. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A report from China Daily

The 14th China International Patent Fair is set to take place in Dalian, Northeast China’s Liaoning province, from Oct 13 to 15, with a renewed focus on establishing itself as a global, specialized and market-oriented platform. 

The 14th China International Patent Fair is set to take place in Dalian International Conference Center, Liaoning province, from Oct 13 to 15.
The 14th China International Patent Fair is set to take place in Dalian International Conference Center, Liaoning province, from Oct 13 to 15.

For the first time, this year’s patent fair will incorporate the previous China (Wuxi) International Design Expo to form a combined event, organizers said.

This year’s fair will comprise three main components of an opening ceremony, exhibitions and supporting activities.

The opening ceremony will include the ceremony for the 25th WIPO-CNIPA Award for Chinese Outstanding Patented Invention and Industrial Design, presented by the World Intellectual Property Organization and the China National Intellectual Property Administration. The on-site exhibition will span 20,000 square meters and consist of eight sections of the Chinese patent award zone, thematic exhibition zone, key industries zone, patented technology zone, IP operation ecosystem zone, regional exhibition zone, geographical indications zone, as well as industrial design and consumer products zone. In addition, more than 30 supporting events will be organized, covering policy interpretation, seminars, roadshows, experience-sharing sessions, competition showcases, and business matchmaking activities.

This year’s event will feature significant innovations in organizational structure, exhibition concepts, and activity planning.

Hosted by the CNIPA and organized by the Dalian city government, the fair is a premier national event in China’s IP sector with global influence.

Bringing the event to Dalian is both a signal of commitment to revitalizing the northeast and a test of the city’s innovation ecosystem, local officials said.

The city government has attached great importance to the event, carrying out high-level planning and preparation, with all tasks currently progressing as scheduled.

So far, the exhibition zones have drawn more than 300 organizations, with registration continuing. Participation numbers for the supporting activities are also expected to climb, underscoring the event’s role as a “super link” for innovators.

This year’s fair is set to deliver substantial highlights and opportunities for engagement.

The upcoming event is set to serve as a dynamic nexus for industry and innovation, catalyzing new opportunities for collaboration. By bridging industrial needs with technological advancement, it will function as a critical gateway connecting Chinese and global tech ecosystems, while providing a robust platform for partnership between enterprises and academic institutions.

The event will spotlight four key sectors of energy and chemicals, high-end manufacturing, the modern marine industry, and life sciences. It will assemble key players and cutting-edge patented technologies from across the industry chain, delivering high-value solutions for innovators. A diverse lineup of leading participants has been confirmed. International representation includes organizations such as Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency and Nikken Sekkei. Major Chinese companies like China Mobile, CGN, Sinopec, Tencent, and BYD will join, alongside prominent Liaoning-based enterprises such as Hengli Petrochemical and Ansteel. The academic sector will be well represented by institutions including Macao Polytechnic University, Dalian University of Technology and the Dalian Institute of Chemical Physics at the Chinese Academy of Sciences.

Additionally, the fair will focus on bridging the gap between supply and demand to cultivate a new ecosystem for patent transactions. More than 30 themed events will be organized across the four key industrial sectors to advance patent commercialization. These include seminars on building an IP operation ecosystem and facilitating the transaction of State-owned intellectual assets, roadshows featuring award-winning projects from the National High-Value Patent Cultivation Competition, and product launches in areas such as food inspection robotics and patent information services.

A total of 80 specific technical challenges and patent needs raised by Dalian-based businesses have been collected in advance, seeking more efficient matchmaking during the event. The fair is further supported by a dedicated online platform that extends transaction opportunities beyond the venue, allowing for year-round collaboration and incubation. An on-site service ecosystem will integrate more than 30 professional institutions offering expertise in IP trading, valuation, legal consultancy and financing.

Additionally, the fair will enhance collaboration by creating a dynamic, integrated experience for all participants at the Dalian International Conference Center. The venue will provide dedicated spaces for high-level meetings and presentations, allowing delegates to engage in discussions while enjoying panoramic sea views.

To support comprehensive media coverage, a centralized press area will be available for journalists. Interactive livestreaming zones in the GI and industrial design sections will enable visitors to sample authentic regional products and explore cutting-edge consumer goods. These curated experiences are planned to give both domestic and international guests a direct feel for Dalian’s innovation vitality, industrial prowess, and unique urban charm.

The patent fair is recognized as one of the most prestigious and specialized professional events in China’s IP sector.

Since its inception in 2002, the fair has been held 13 times, evolving into a highly influential platform that bridges industry, academia, research and application. It has become a major IP gathering for showcasing domestic and international innovation achievements as well as facilitating economic and trade cooperation.

Underpinned by its strategic “pioneer zone” positioning and six-targeted construction tasks, Dalian’s economy continues to demonstrate robust and high-quality growth. This momentum is reflected in key indicators, including a 6 percent GDP increase and a leading 12.5 percent rise in industrial output among China’s sub-provincial cities in the first half of this year.

The city’s rising innovation profile is further cemented by platforms including Yinggeshi Science City and a slew of major new research laboratories. Having hosted international forums like the Summer Davos, Dalian is now poised to focus global attention on IP as it welcomes the 14th China International Patent Fair.

The fair is expected to amplify the influx of technology, talent and capital into the city. By hosting this prestigious event, Dalian reaffirms its commitment to strengthening its IP ecosystem and solidifying its role as a driving force in regional innovation, local officials said.

Security Leaders Embrace Zero Trust but Lag on Adopting AI Security Tools, DXC and Microsoft Research Finds

83% of organizations adopting Zero Trust have successfully reduced security incidents according to new global cybersecurity report

ASHBURN, Va., Oct. 9, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — DXC Technology (NYSE: DXC), a leading Fortune 500 global technology services provider, today announced new global research, The Trust Report: From Risk Management to Strategic Resilience in Cybersecurity, conducted in partnership with Microsoft. The report found that Zero Trust has become an essential and widely adopted framework, yet organizations are still in the early stages of leveraging AI security tools – such as authentication, used by only 30% – revealing untapped potential to strengthen cybersecurity.

DXC's The Trust Report: How Global Cybersecurity Leaders are Navigating a Sea of Constant Threats
DXC’s The Trust Report: How Global Cybersecurity Leaders are Navigating a Sea of Constant Threats

DXC and Microsoft commissioned global research, which included interviews with over one hundred cybersecurity experts across four continents. Security threats are rising fast, with AI giving attackers new ways to outsmart defenses and exploit weaknesses. In this climate, the Zero Trust model isn’t just a best practice, it’s becoming an essential framework for safeguarding organizations against an ever-evolving threat landscape. The report found that 83% of surveyed organizations adopting Zero Trust have successfully reduced security incidents, lowering remediation and support costs. At the same time, while cyber threats are on the rise due to AI, only 30% reported using AI-driven authentication tools to enhance their security practice. This striking gap underscores both the value of Zero Trust and the untapped potential of AI to deliver more proactive, adaptive protection against today’s evolving cyber threats.

“Zero Trust is increasingly viewed as the standard going forward,” said Dawn-Marie Vaughan, Global Offering Lead Cybersecurity, DXC. “As AI-driven threats accelerate, organizations must evaluate security holistically across identity, devices, networks, applications, and data. At DXC, we’re helping customers embed Zero Trust into their culture and technology to safeguard operations. Our end-to-end expertise makes it possible to both defend against AI threats and harness secure AI in the same decisive motion.”

Key findings from the report include:

  • 66% of organizations cite legacy systems as their biggest challenge to Zero Trust adoption.
  • 72% of enterprises say new threats are their primary driver for continuously improving Zero Trust policies and practices.
  • More than 50% of organizations discovered unexpected value in Zero Trust’s ability to improve user experience alongside security.

“Most enterprises already rely on Microsoft Entra ID and Microsoft 365 as the backbone of their IT environments,” said Alex Simons, CVP, Microsoft Entra. “Building Zero Trust solutions alongside DXC extends that value, enabling tighter integration, simplified operations, and greater visibility and control. By consolidating around the Microsoft stack, organizations can reduce complexity, cut costs, and accelerate their Zero Trust journey.”

The report underscores that Zero Trust is not a one-time implementation, but an ongoing journey requiring cultural change, continuous monitoring, and strong partnerships. DXC’s cybersecurity experts emphasize that organizations should take a phased approach, starting with identity, while leveraging trusted partners to integrate, optimize, and manage Zero Trust architectures at scale.

The full report, The Trust Report: From Risk Management to Strategic Resilience in Cybersecurity, is available for download here.

About DXC Technology

DXC Technology (NYSE: DXC) is a leading global provider of information technology services. We’re a trusted operating partner to many of the world’s most innovative organizations, building solutions that move industries and companies forward. Our engineering, consulting and technology experts help clients simplify, optimize and modernize their systems and processes, manage their most critical workloads, integrate AI-powered intelligence into their operations, and put security and trust at the forefront. Learn more on dxc.com.

Media Contact: Angelena Abate, Media Relations, +1.646.234.8060, angelena.abate@dxc.com