SYDNEY, Sept. 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Australian cricket sensation Alex Carey has officially joined GoodWe as a brand ambassador, marking the start of a powerful partnership built on shared values, climate awareness, and a commitment to community.
Dean Williamson, Country Manager for GoodWe Australia (Left) with Australian Cricketer and GoodWe Ambassador, Alex Carey (Right)
Best known as one of the country’s top wicketkeepers and a vital part of the national squad, Carey is now turning his attention to the home front. He’s taking practical steps to reduce his environmental impact, beginning with a full GoodWe solar and battery system installation at his family home later this year.
This move aligns with Carey’s growing concern for climate change, shaped by years of international travel and on-the-ground observation.
“Over the past decade, I’ve travelled extensively for cricket. I’ve seen firsthand how weather patterns are changing across countries and continents,” he said. “When you’re constantly exposed to the elements like we are on tour, you don’t need a scientific report to know something’s shifted. From droughts to unseasonal downpours, it’s clear our climate is under pressure.”
A long-time supporter of charitable causes, Carey also contributes to initiatives such as Rufus (www.rufus.org.au) that provides furnishing and essential items in accommodation for the homeless and victims of domestic violence. His commitment to creating a more equitable and sustainable world makes him a strong fit for GoodWe.
“I choose GoodWe for their innovation, quality, and affordable solar and energy storage solutions. I’m proud to support a brand that leads the way for cleaner energy,” Carey said.
GoodWe, a global leader in solar inverters and energy storage technology, continues to expand across Australia, offering reliable and intelligent energy solutions for homes and businesses. With over six million inverters installed worldwide, the company is helping Australians cut costs and carbon emissions while gaining more control over their energy use.
“We’re proud to welcome Alex Carey to the GoodWe family,” said Dean Williamson, Country Manager of GoodWe Australia. “He’s not only a world-class cricketer but someone who genuinely cares about the impact we’re having on the planet.”
“GoodWe is passionate about giving back, helping worthy causes, making our environment better and helping to educate future generations about the impacts of climate change. Aligning ourselves with Alex, who shares the same values, makes this an ideal and exciting partnership.”
Carey’s new GoodWe solar and battery system will give him greater energy independence, reduced electricity bills, and the ability to store excess solar power for use at night or during outages. For many Australians, this combination of savings and sustainability is hitting the sweet spot.
The partnership will kick off with a public awareness campaign focused on helping more households make the switch to clean energy. Carey will also feature in upcoming GoodWe events, social media, and community initiatives.
With energy prices continuing to rise and climate events becoming more extreme, GoodWe and Carey hope their collaboration will inspire more Australians to take the first step toward energy independence.
This isn’t just about sport and sponsorship. It’s about action, leadership, and using influence to push for change – on and off the field.
About GoodWe:
GoodWe is a world-leading PV inverter and energy storage systems manufacturer listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange (Stock Code: 688390). The company has more than 5000 employees located in 30 different countries and a team of over 1000 engineers working at its R&D centres to continuously optimise and advance energy storage technology.
With credentials, awards and ratings from IHS Markit and Wood Mackenzie, GoodWe has also been awarded the silver medal in Sustainability by EcoVadis, and most recently as a Tier 1 manufacturer by BloombergNEF. In Australia, GoodWe has achieved top inverter and battery manufacturer awards for consecutive years by Sunwiz, and in 2025 has been recognised as the top inverter manufacturer for <100kW. Having achieved over seven consecutive TÜV Rheinland "All Quality Matters'' awards and consistently being ranked at the top in terms of overall product quality, GoodWe's comprehensive portfolio of products and solutions for residential, commercial, and utility-scale PV systems is guaranteed to deliver high performance and reliable quality across the board.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 September 2025 – DFI Retail Group (“DFI” or “the Group”) is pleased to announce a five-year partnership with Toumi Foods and Product Co., Ltd. (“Toumi”), one of Thailand’s leading rice exporters. This collaboration will see the production and delivery of 1,000 metric tons low-carbon rice to Hong Kong and Macau markets in 2026.
Curtis Liu, Chief Executive Officer, Food, at DFI Retail Group (Right) and Mr. Chaikun Tepkasetkul, President of Toumi Foods and Product Co., Ltd. (Left) attended the signing ceremony to announce the strategic partnership.
The rice is sourced from DFI’s award-winning low-carbon rice cultivation programme which was recently recognised at the UNSDG Achievement Awards Hong Kong 2025 for its outstanding contribution to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 13: Climate Action. The rice cultivation programme champions sustainable agriculture practices and improves climate resilience, making it a global example of innovation in sustainable food production.
This collaboration highlights DFI’s commitment to enable customers to make more sustainable choices, while driving meaningful change for both people and the planet.
Ambitious 2026 Production Goal
Building on the success of the 2025 launch of low-carbon rice — which saw a remarkable 25% increase in sales — DFI and Toumi are scaling up their efforts, targeting an increase in low-carbon rice production to 1,000 metric tons in 2026, five times the 2025 goal. This reflects both robust consumer demand and DFI’s leadership in sustainable sourcing, showcasing its commitment to driving positive change in the food industry.
Expanding product range
To better meet the needs of customers and families of all sizes, DFI will integrate the application of low-carbon rice cultivation programme in 2026 to other products. In addition to the popular Own Brand Yu Pin King Thai Jasmine Fragrant Rice (5kg), new pack sizes—2kg, 8kg, and 9kg—will be progressively introduced, alongside Yu Pin King Healthy Mixed Rice in 2kg and 5kg.
These products will be available at Wellcome and Market Place in Hong Kong, and San Miu Supermarket in Macau, making sustainable choices more accessible and convenient than ever before. By diversifying its offerings, DFI aims to empower more customers to make greener choices that align with their lifestyles and values.
Reducing on-farm greenhouse gas emissions by 30%
This partnership highlights DFI’s unwavering commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and advancing sustainability. In 2024, DFI collaborated with Toumi, Thai government, local farmers, academics and sustainable agricultural experts on a pilot low-carbon rice cultivation programme. Monitoring and verification of rice fields participating revealed that the programme achieved at least a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to conventional farming methods.
In the programme, DFI and Toumi actively support farmers by promoting green practices such as:
Alternate wetting and drying irrigation to conserve water and to reduce methane emissions.
Prohibition of straw burning to reduce air pollution.
Optimised soil and fertiliser management to increase efficiency and lower emissions.
These efforts not only reduce Scope 3 emissions across the value chain but also empower farmers to adopt sustainable practices that benefit both the environment and their livelihoods.
Leadership Perspectives
Curtis Liu, Chief Executive Officer, Food, DFI Retail Group added, “DFI is committed to sustainable sourcing while keeping our customers’ needs at the forefront. We are keenly aware of the growing demand for products that are both sustainable and affordable, especially as the cost of living rises. Our pilot programme with Toumi has been a resounding success, overcoming challenges on the ground while receiving positive feedback from customers. Through this five-year partnership, we aim to make sustainable, affordable products a reality for our customers while creating a positive impact on the Thai farming community.”
Erica Chan, Group Chief Legal, Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer, DFI Retail Group commented, “Sustainability is a collective responsibility. With DFI’s extensive retail network, we actively partner with our stakeholders to drive meaningful impact. Rice is a key focus in our journey to reduce Scope 3 emissions. From supporting farmers with green practices to optimising procurement and logistics, and providing customers with sustainable options, we are committed to decarbonisation across our value chain. Together, we are building a more sustainable future for all.”
Mr. Chaikun Tepkasetkul, President, Toumi Foods and Product Co., Ltd. said, “We are thrilled to embark on a long-term partnership with DFI. We are committed to providing training to local farmers and educating them to reduce greenhouse gas emission at source. Through the collaboration, we hope to inspire greener farming practices while stabilising farmers’ incomes. It’s a win-win for people and the planet.”
Customer Promotions
To celebrate the partnership, a special promotion will be available at Wellcome and Market Place from now until 25 September. Customers can enjoy the Yu Pin King Thai Jasmine Fragrant Rice (5kg) at HK$52 for yuu members (standard price: HK$62).
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
DFI Retail Group
DFI Retail Group (the “Group”) is a leading Asian retailer, driven by its purpose to “Sustainably Serve Asia for Generations with Everyday Moments”. As at 30 June 2025, the Group, its associates and joint ventures operated over 7,500 outlets, and employed over 83,000 people. The Group is dedicated to delivering quality, value and service to Asian consumers through a compelling retail experience, supported by an extensive store network and highly efficient supply chains. The Group, including associates, operates a portfolio of well-known brands across five key divisions: health and beauty, convenience, food, home furnishings and restaurants.
About Yu Pin King
Yu Pin King is your reliable partner when it comes to preparing Chinese meals. We promise honest, dependable quality for convenient and affordable food options. With Yu Pin King, we are committed to put honest quality first in everything we do, through our “triple-tested” promise:
“Quality-tested” to ensure great product quality and food safety
“Taste-tested” so all our products are taste-approved and endorsed before they go on the shelves
“Price-tested” because we check our prices regularly for you
About Toumi Foods and Product Co., Ltd.
Toumi Foods and Product Co., Ltd. (“Toumi”) is a family owned Thai company with long tradition in the rice milling industry in Sisaket province, North East of Thailand. From our humble start, through collaboration with local farmers, we have secured the best quality Thai Hom Mali paddy and processed high-quality rice for local consumption. In 2004, we went global, positioning ourselves as one of Thailand’s leading rice exporters known for both quality and trust.
Today, our advanced facilities in Pathumthani province supported with high technology and are accredited with major international food safety standards which are BRCGS and SEDEX. Such state of the art functions can serve as the foundation for our ability to manufacture and ship out all types of rice, from Thai Hom Mali Rice and White Rice, to Jasmine Rice, matching the various requirements of customers for its consistent quality and high dependability all around the world.
Looking ahead, at Toumi, through the harmonious blend of heritage and innovation, we remain dedicated to offering not only the finest rice but also ensuring the well-being and prosperity of generations to come.
EQT to exit its investment in TELUS Digital, a global provider of AI-driven customer experience and digital transformation solutions, by voting in favor of TELUS Corporation’s proposed acquisition of TELUS Digital
During EQT’s investment period, TELUS Digital has transformed from a traditional outsourcing business into a global innovator in customer experience and technology solutions, delivering an approximate 4x return on its investment and underscoring the success of EQT’s value creation strategy
Closer integration with TELUS Corporation will enable TELUS Digital to accelerate AI and SaaS innovation across multiple industry verticals and support its next phase of growth
SINGAPORE, Sept. 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — EQT is pleased to announce that BPEA Private Equity Fund VI (“EQT”) has signed a definitive voting and support agreement for the proposed acquisition of TELUS Digital (“TELUS Digital” or the “Company”) by TELUS Corporation, the majority shareholder and parent of TELUS Digital. The transaction marks the culmination of EQT’s successful investment, following the Company’s comprehensive transformation since EQT’s initial entry in 2016.
TELUS Digital is a leading global provider of digital customer experience (CX) outsourcing, digital transformation and adjacent services. Today, the Company serves clients across technology, telecommunications, e-commerce, gaming, financial services and healthcare and delivers end-to-end solutions – including CX management, trust, safety and security, AI and data solutions, and digital solutions – that empower top global brands to innovate and engage with their customers more effectively.
Since EQT’s investment, TELUS Digital has undergone a far-reaching transformation into a next-generation services leader. The Company completed multiple strategic acquisitions – including Voxpro, Xavient, Competence Call Center, Lionbridge AI, Playment and WillowTree – adding significant expertise in digital design and product development, content moderation, AI-driven data solutions and digital transformation consulting. Combined with strong organic expansion, these steps broadened TELUS Digital’s offerings and positioned it as a global technology solutions leader.
During EQT’s investment period, TELUS Digital has grown its workforce by over 250% to more than 78,000 employees, expanded its operations to more than 30 countries worldwide, and increased EBITDA by more than 500%. A key milestone came in 2021, with TELUS Digital successfully listing on the New York Stock Exchange and the Toronto Stock Exchange, in what was then the largest-ever technology IPO on the Toronto Stock Exchange.
Since 2016, EQT has supported TELUS Digital’s transformation and growth journey. EQT sold a significant portion of its stake at the time of TELUS Digital’s IPO and follow-on offering in 2021 – when the Company’s enterprise value had expanded by approximately six times since EQT’s initial investment – and further reduced its holding through subsequent sell downs. EQT has now agreed to vote in favor of TELUS Corporation’s proposed acquisition and sell its remaining stake for USD 215 million on closing. Together, these transactions represent an approximate 4x return on its investment and underscore the success of EQT’s value creation strategy.
Janice Leow, Partner in the EQT Private Capital Asia advisory team and Head of EQT Private Capital Southeast Asia, said: “We are proud to have supported TELUS Digital’s transformation into a global leader in customer experience and technology services. Since investing in TELUS Digital, the company has broadened its capabilities and international presence through organic initiatives and multiple strategic acquisitions. It has also strengthened its position with leading global technology clients. It has been a rewarding partnership, and we are pleased to have contributed to this growth journey. We believe that full integration with TELUS Corporation will create new opportunities for TELUS Digital to accelerate its innovation and long-term development.”
Darren Entwistle, President and CEO of TELUS Corporation, said: “EQT has been a valued partner to TELUS Corporation, working alongside us to advance TELUS Digital’s growth, transformation and culture of innovation. Notably, with EQT’s support, TELUS Digital evolved from a traditional BPO provider into an organization delivering world-leading enterprise solutions globally, including customer experience management, digital development and design, and its innovative Fuel iX AI platform. We appreciate EQT’s collaboration and look forward to continuing TELUS Digital’s exciting journey as it becomes fully integrated within TELUS Corporation.”
The transaction is subject to customary closing conditions and is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2025.
AFP – Hundreds of families sheltered in schools and evacuation centres on Monday, 22 September, as heavy rains and gale-force winds from Super Typhoon Ragasa lashed the northern Philippines and southern Taiwan.
The typhoon, which is gaining strength as it proceeds on a collision course with southern China, was expected to make landfall over the Philippines’ Babuyan Islands by around midday.
The sparsely populated islands lie about 740 kilometres (460 miles) south of Taiwan in the Luzon Strait.
As of 8:00 am (0000 GMT), maximum sustained winds of 215 kilometres per hour were reported at the storm’s center, with gusts reaching up to 265 kph as it moved toward the archipelago nation, the national weather service said.
“We are now experiencing strong winds here in northern Cagayan,” provincial disaster chief Rueli Rapsing told AFP, saying they were prepared for “the worst”.
“Since the super typhoon will traverse Calayan, we are very focused on that area,” he said of a town in the far north province.
In Taiwan, small-scale evacuations were ongoing in mountainous areas near Pingtung, local fire department officer James Wu told AFP.
“What worries us more is that the damage could be similar to what happened during Typhoon Koinu two years ago,” he added, describing a storm that saw utility poles collapse and sheet-metal roofs sent flying into the air.
Schools and government offices were closed Monday in the Manila region and across 29 Philippine provinces in anticipation of heavy rainfall.
Government weather specialist John Grender Almario said Sunday that “severe flooding and landslides” could be expected in the northern areas of the main island Luzon.
The threat of flooding from Ragasa comes just a day after thousands of Filipinos took to the streets to protest a growing corruption scandal involving flood control projects that were shabbily constructed or never completed.
A day of largely peaceful demonstrations turned violent in the afternoon and early evening as rock-throwing protesters clashed with police, leading to more than 70 arrests.
The Philippines is the first major landmass facing the Pacific cyclone belt, and the archipelago is hit by an average of 20 storms and typhoons each year, putting millions of people in disaster-prone areas in a state of constant poverty.
Scientists warn that storms are becoming more powerful as the world warms due to the effects of human-driven climate change.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 September 2025 – Blue, Hong Kong’s first digital life insurer, is celebrating its 7th anniversary with a series of exclusive birthday offers and exciting activities to thank customers for their continued support. This year, Blue is bringing the “7-Second Challenge” Promotion Truck into the community, delivering health, protection, and joy to the public. Since its establishment in 2018, Blue has been committed to providing simple, flexible, and valuable insurance solutions tailored to the needs of every life stage. Over the past 7 years, Blue has continuously innovated and optimised its products, earning widespread recognition and trust.
Birthday Offers on Core Protection Plans Offer 1: Blue WeCare Term Life Protection Plan TL3
Blue guarantees customers the lowest price in town¹ for the first policy term, ensuring the most competitive rate for term life protection. The plan is savings-free, so customers enjoy pure protection at the best price. No additional health proof is required—even those with high blood pressure or high cholesterol may be covered², making it easier than ever to protect your loved ones.
70% off first-year premium, 50% off second-year premium
Enjoy HK$700 HealthCoin when you apply for a designated sum assured
Offer 2: Blue WeCare Critical Illness Protection Plan 1
Critical illness protection provides essential financial support to help you cope with unexpected medical expenses and living costs. Blue focuses on the three major critical illnesses: cancer, heart attack, and stroke—delivering direct protection with affordable premiums.
70% off first-year premium, 50% off second-year premium
Complimentary critical illness coverage for children up to HK$300,000
Enjoy HK$400,000 carcinoma in situ coverage, plus HK$200 HealthCoin when you apply for a designated sum assured
From 26 to 29 September 2025, the Blue “7-Second Challenge” Promotion Truck will tour various districts, inviting the public to join the fun. Each day, the first participant to hit exactly 7.7777 seconds (or the closest) will win the daily grand prize, including a 7-in-1 body composition monitor (valued at HK$508), instant heating water dispenser (valued at HK$1,288), air purifier (valued at HK$1,650), or detox massager (valued at HK$665). There will also be plenty of other prizes for everyone—bring your friends and family to celebrate Blue’s birthday together!
Event Details
Date
Location
26 Sept (Fri)
Outside COS Centre, Tsun Yip Street, Kwun Tong
27 Sept (Sat)
Outside Mannings, Langham Place, Mongkok
28 Sept (Sun)
Near Exit C, Causeway Bay MTR Station
29 Sept (Mon)
Haiphong Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
The above schedule is for reference only and may be subject to change due to weather or road conditions. Please follow Blue’s Facebook and Instagram pages for the latest updates.
Blue Insurance Limited is authorized and regulated by the Insurance Authority under the Insurance Ordinance (Cap. 41) to sell insurance products in Hong Kong. For details, terms, and conditions of Blue’s promotion activities and products, please visit: https://go.blue.com.hk/7thFest_e . Products and offers are subject to terms and conditions.
Notes:
“Lowest Rate Guaranteed” compares the standard premiums of two quotations. To be eligible for the “Lowest Rate Guaranteed”, the two quotations must be on the same premium payment term, policy benefit term, issue age, sex, and smoking status, and is applicable to term life policies that are intended for online sale and in Hong Kong only. “Lowest Rate Guaranteed” is not applicable for submitted applications and in-force policies.
Actual underwriting result depends on the age and health condition of the Insured.
Hashtag: #Blue
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Blue Insurance Limited
Blue is the first digital life insurer in Hong Kong. It is a joint venture between Hillhouse Investment, a leading investment management firm with extensive investment experience, and Tencent Holdings Limited, a leading Internet value added services provider. Blue focuses on providing simple, flexible and valuable insurance solutions. It is committed to making people’s lives easier by empowering them to take charge of their own protection. For more information, please visit www.blue.com.hk.
Chill Lab has positively impacted 146,161 people across Hong Kong
187 secondary schools were engaged via augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) sessions, creative workshops and capacity building for students, teachers and parents
The latest student-led “We Can” program trained 40 youth leaders who delivered 17 projects benefiting 17,005 members of the public
Z Zurich Foundation youth mental wellbeing white paper urges school‑based youth interventions, where Chill Lab’s innovative youth‑led model aptly aligns its themes
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 September 2025 – Since 2023, Zurich Insurance (Hong Kong) (“Zurich Hong Kong”) has started collaborating with Z Zurich Foundation and The Mental Health Association of Hong Kong (“MHAHK”) to launch Chill Lab, a youth mental wellbeing prevention and promotion program that aims to drive systemic change in Hong Kong’s approach to youth mental wellbeing. Since then, Chill Lab has become the flagship youth mental wellbeing initiative of MHAHK.
Tulsi Naidu, CEO Asia Pacific, Zurich Insurance (right three), Eric Hui, CEO, Zurich Insurance (Greater China) (left four), and Sofyen Khalfaoui, Head of Improving Mental Wellbeing, Z Zurich Foundation (right two), visited the Chill Lab’s youth hub with and Stephen Wong, Deputy Director, MHAHK (left three).
Deep youth impact in just two years
Over the past two years, Chill Lab has positively impacted 146,161 lives, by engaging 187 secondary schools —covering more than 30% of Hong Kong’s secondary schools. The program engaged youths via innovative activities such as AR/VR experiential sessions, creative art workshops, social media campaigns and large-scale community events. Capacity-building initiatives were organized to train 200 youth ambassadors, teachers, and parents, who further reached 4,620 people through school and community activities.
The program’s innovation and impact have been recognized with the Platinum Award for Excellence in Health & Mental Health at the “Champions for Good Awards 2025” and the Excellence in Innovation Award from the Dr. Lo Wai Hoi Memorial Fund.
Eric Hui, Chief Executive Officer of Zurich Insurance (Greater China), said, “Chill Lab demonstrates the power of prevention, creativity and youth leadership in strengthening mental resilience across Hong Kong. We are proud to support this program alongside the Z Zurich Foundation and to see the measurable difference it has made. Our support is driven by a belief that promotion and prevention activities, and youth leadership can help build a healthier future for the next generation that aligns perfectly well with our brand purpose of creating a brighter future together.”
Over the past two years, Chill Lab has positively impacted 146,161 lives, by engaging 187 secondary schools.
Youth-led transformation in schools and communities
The “We Can – Youth Pioneer Program” emerged as Chill Lab’s signature youth-led success this year. The program trained 40 secondary students from five schools in project design, public engagement and advocacy. Equipped with practical skills and mentorship, these young leaders designed and delivered 17 projects across schools and communities, directly benefiting 17,005 members of the public. Activities ranged from interactive booths and peer support campaigns to creative workshops encouraging emotional expression and empathy.
Post-program evaluation showed strong gains among participants: problem-solving (“always considering multiple solutions”) increased from 60% to 93%, and over 95% reported greater willingness to care for their own and others’ mental health. School leaders praised the program’s practical training and student ownership while students described increased empathy, improved listening skills and a deeper understanding that emotional wellbeing is a life skill for everyone. The program culminated in an award ceremony during the summer holidays that celebrated outstanding proposals, creativity and impact across participating schools.
Mr. Stephen Wong, Deputy Director, MHAHK, added, “Students are the future pillars of our society, and their creativity drives meaningful change. We are proud to launch ‘We Can’ as a model that empowers young people to lead mental health initiatives in their schools and communities. We hope more schools will adopt this youth-led approach and help create mental health friendly campuses across Hong Kong. We are also grateful to have mentors and judge from Zurich Hong Kong who provided valuable advice to the students”
The “We Can” program culminated in an award ceremony during the summer holidays that celebrated outstanding proposals, creativity and impact across participating schools.
Whitepaper insights brought to action
Recently, the Z Zurich Foundation has released a compelling white paper “Youth mental wellbeing in Asia-Pacific Region“, highlighting the critical need to support the mental health of young people across the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. The report reveals that youth mental wellbeing is at risk, with 50% of mental health conditions beginning by age 14. The insights underscore the critical need to support the mental health of young people in APAC and underscore the urgency of upstream, community-based and school-centered interventions. The white paper points to the central role of schools as platforms for prevention and destigmatisation, and the effectiveness of youth-led and interactive programs in raising engagement and help seeking. Chill Lab’s focus on AR/VR experiential learning, peer support and youth leadership align directly with these findings and demonstrates how prevention oriented, school-based models can build resilience, life skills and connectedness.
Gregory Renand, Head of the Z Zurich Foundation, stated, “Chill Lab exemplifies the preventive, youth centric approach our white paper recommends. The program’s use of schools as a platform, its interactive AR/VR learning and, importantly, its youth led ‘We Can’ model align directly with the white paper’s call to build resilience, life skills and peer support. These are essential levers to reduce stigma and improve access to timely care for young people.”
Chill Lab is committed to driving systematic change towards youth mental health by fostering long-term partnerships across education, community, private and public sectors. Entering its third year, Chill Lab will refine its interventions based on evaluation insights and strengthen collaborations with schools, teachers and community partners. Planned developments include integrating AI into AR/VR games to enhance engagement and personalized learning, expanding interactive exhibitions, and embedding youth led initiatives more deeply within the education system. These efforts aim to sustain long-term improvements in youth mental health literacy, resilience and help seeking behaviors across Hong Kong.
Young leaders trained by “We Can” program designed and delivered 17 projects across schools and communities, directly benefiting 17,005 members of the public.
Disclaimers
The information contained in this material is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute any recommendation or advice to any person. Readers should not make any decision based solely on the information contained herein. Before acting on any information in this material, readers should consider their personal situation and seek independent advice.
The information contained in this material does not constitute an offer for the purchase or sale of any insurance products or services. No insurance product or service is deemed to be offered, marketed or solicited for sale in any jurisdiction in which such offer, marketing or solicitation would be unlawful under the laws of such jurisdiction.
Zurich Insurance (Hong Kong) has based this material on information obtained from sources it believes to be reliable, but it does not warrant the correctness, adequacy and completeness of the information contained herein.
The information contained in this material may not be reproduced either in whole, or in part, without prior written permission of Zurich Insurance (Hong Kong). In no event shall Zurich Insurance (Hong Kong) be liable for any damages or losses arising out of or in connection with the use, reliance on or distribution of the information contained in this material by any person. Hashtag: #ZurichHongKong #ZZurichFoundation
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Zurich Insurance (Hong Kong)
Zurich Insurance (Hong Kong) is part of the Zurich Insurance Group, with its presence in Hong Kong dating back to 1961. Since then, Zurich Insurance (Hong Kong) has been dedicated to serving the Hong Kong community with a full range of flexible investment, life insurance and general insurance solutions for individuals, as well as commercial and corporate customers — attending to their insurance, protection and investment needs. Zurich Insurance (Hong Kong) currently ranks fourth in the general insurance direct business market1 and ranks fifth in the ILAS market2 in Hong Kong. Please visit www.zurich.com.hk for more information of Zurich Insurance (Hong Kong).
1 Annual statistics of the Insurance Authority on Hong Kong direct general business from January to December 2024, based on gross premium.
2 Annual statistics of the Insurance Authority on Hong Kong long term insurance business from January to December 2024, based on the number of policies and premiums of in-force business of investment-linked life insurance.
About Zurich Insurance Group (Zurich)
Zurich Insurance Group (Zurich) is a leading global multi-line insurer founded more than 150 years ago, which has grown into a business serving more than 75 million customers in more than 200 countries and territories, while delivering industry-leading total shareholder returns.
Reflecting its purpose to ‘create a brighter future together,’ Zurich offers protection services that go beyond traditional insurance to support its customers in building resilience. Since 2020, the Zurich Forest project supports reforestation and biodiversity restoration in Brazil’s Atlantic Forest.
The Group has more than 63,000 employees and is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland. Zurich Insurance Group Ltd (ZURN), is listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange and has a level I American Depositary Receipt (ZURVY) program, which is traded over-the-counter on OTCQX. Further information is available at www.zurich.com.
About The Mental Health Association of Hong Kong
The Mental Health Association of Hong Kong was founded in 1954, The Mental Health Association of Hong Kong (MHAHK) is a non-profit social service organization with the goal of educating the public on mental health. We embrace the vision of “Mental Health for ALL” and are committed to the missions of “Quality rehabilitation for service users”, “Positive workplace for staff” and “Mental wellness for the public”.
The Association started direct service operation in 1967 and since then, has developed a comprehensive spectrum of rehabilitation services in the community, including residential care, community support, day training, vocational rehabilitation, employment support and special education, providing holistic care for people in recovery, people with intellectual disabilities and the disadvantaged. MHAHK currently operates over 50 subvented welfare service units / projects serving over tens of thousands of service users. The Association also manages self-financed supported apartment for people in recovery, a non-profit training and counselling centre, a special school with boarding places for students with severe mental handicaps and multiple disabilities, a social enterprise operating over 30 Supported Employment projects, and a training institute providing long-term consultation and supervision to mental health projects in the Mainland and the Greater Bay Area.
About Z Zurich Foundation
At the Z Zurich Foundation, we believe in a world where young people have the tools and resources to improve their mental wellbeing. Throughout the various projects we support, we aim to create a mental wellbeing movement that is helping young people see their feelings for what they are, so they can prevent stress from developing into anxiety.
The Z Zurich Foundation works alongside Zurich Insurance Group employees and other stakeholders as well as with governments and NGOs in pursuit of a future where people can thrive in the face of increasing climate hazards and catastrophes, where those of us feeling the stresses of life are empowered to speak up, and where the marginalized in our society can reach their full potential.
The Z Zurich Foundation is a Swiss-based charitable foundation established by members of the Zurich Insurance Group. It is the main vehicle by which Zurich Insurance Group delivers on its global community investment strategy.
BANGKOK, Sept. 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Chulalongkorn University has partnered with The Ocean Cleanup and the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources to use camera technology and AI to analyze the amount of waste in the Chao Phraya River, aiming to reduce environmental impacts and to promote effective waste management policies both on land and in water sources.
Chula Partners with the Ocean Cleanup to Stop Plastic Waste before It Hits the Ocean With Cameras and AI
If you think that the trash you throw away today will disappear from your life forever, think again!
“By examining the label of plastic waste found on the Chao Phraya River, we found garbage that dates back 10 years!” Professor Dr. Suchana Chavanich, Professor of Marine Science, Faculty of Science, and Deputy Director of the Aquatic Resources Research Institute, Chulalongkorn University, revealed findings from the Chao Phraya River Plastic Waste Disposal Research Project in Bangkok, where Chula researchers used cameras and AI technology to intercept and track waste in the Chao Phraya River from 2021 to 2024.
“Currently, Thailand ranks in the top 10 in the world for inefficient waste management, resulting in high levels of marine pollution”, Prof. Dr.Suchana cautioned.
In the past, many organizations and sectors have continuously tried to raise awareness and enact policies and measures to reduce and eliminate waste both on land and in the waterways to reduce marine waste. Similarly, the latest pilot project — Research focused on eliminating plastic waste from the Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, “a collaboration between Chulalongkorn University, the Embassy of the Netherlands, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), and the private sector under the operation of The Ocean Cleanup, a non-profit environmental engineering organization from the Netherlands that aims to survey the amount of waste in all five of the world’s oceans. The project team is made up of scientists, engineers, designers, and volunteers working together to develop technologies to tackle the issue of marine waste.
Waste problem in Thai rivers and seas
Based on the data on the amount of municipal solid waste and waste management capability in 23 coastal provinces in 2022, the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources estimates the amount of marine waste to be 11.60 million tons. Of this amount, 302,389 tons (or 0.30 million tons) are “plastic waste,” and 10-15 percent of this plastic waste can remain on the beach or float into the sea and become “marine waste,” totalling about 30,239-45,358 tons or 0.03-0.45 million tons.
The Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) has been actively implementing various marine waste management initiatives since the 2017 fiscal year, aiming to raise public awareness and significantly reduce waste in the ocean and along the coastline. The project also seeks to prevent the reemergence of marine waste by cleaning up leftover trash in Thailand’s critical ecosystems—including beaches, coral reefs, and mangrove forests—across 21 coastal provinces. The initiative operates through collaborative networks involving local communities, municipal organizations, government agencies, the private sector, and others. Despite these earnest efforts, plastic and general waste continue to pollute Thailand’s waterways and seas. If left unaddressed, waste contamination in water sources could pose severe threats to marine life, public health, and the nation’s economy, particularly in the fisheries and tourism sectors, while also tarnishing Thailand’s international image in the long run.
Cameras and AI detect the amount and path of waste in rivers
Prof. Dr. Suchana said that in the Research Project on Plastic Waste Disposal in Chao Phraya River in Bangkok, a team of researchers from Chula was responsible for studying and collecting data on the amount of waste in the Chao Phraya River from 2021 to 2024 to analyze the amount of waste flowing into the sea and studying the efficiency of the automated, solar-powered waste collection vessel (Interceptor) in reducing waste before it goes to the ocean. “The Chula research team installed debris detection cameras at three major bridges: King Pinklao Bridge, Arun Amarin Bridge, and Bhumibol Bridge, where the garbage flows downstream. These cameras record images every 15 minutes so that the amount of garbage can be tracked 24 hours a day with more efficiency than observing it with the naked eye.” Prof. Dr. Suchana explains the process of waste photo collection and analysis.
“Then, The Ocean Cleanup’s AI will help process the photos, analyze the amount and type of waste passing under the bridges, track the path of movement of the waste, and assess the efficiency of the Interceptor.”
Research Results and Future Direction
Prof. Dr. Suchana revealed preliminary results that “plastic waste” is still the main waste found in the Chao Phraya River, and the use of the solar-powered waste interceptor significantly reduces the amount of waste flowing into the sea. The Interceptor can collect up to 6-7 tons of garbage over 2-3 days, depending on the weather. Once collected, the garbage is carefully sorted and properly disposed of.
Initially, the data collected and analyzed using AI will be used to guide policy formulation by the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources and relevant organizations, which aims to continue the project for another three years. Prof. Dr. Suchana expressed confidence that once the research team completed the data analysis, the findings will lead to more effective waste management strategies.
“The findings of this study will serve as a ‘crucial database’ that can be further developed into a more effective and systematic river waste management plan. It will enable us to craft more precise and sustainable waste management policies at both local and national levels—for instance, identifying high-dumping areas to plan preventive measures, developing policies or regulations to reduce waste discharge into waterways, and promoting community-based waste management at the source. All of these efforts will contribute to reducing long-term environmental impacts,” said Prof. Dr. Suchana. She further added, “The use of imaging technology and AI will help us understand the areas that still require waste management attention, regardless of whether waste interceptors are in place. It also allows us to evaluate the effectiveness of existing public and private waste management initiatives.”
Ultimately, the waste crisis knows no borders—collective awareness and action across all sectors are essential.
“Solving the waste problem is a shared responsibility. This international cooperation highlights the fact that the waste we assume to be our country’s problem can be swept into the sea and affect other nations. Therefore, waste management is not just a national issue—it is a global challenge that all countries must address together,” concluded Prof. Dr. Suchana.
Chulalongkorn University has made the world’s top 50 university list for employment outcomes, which reflects both the high employment rate and work ability of Chula graduates. The university is also listed as the best in Thailand for the 15th Consecutive Year (since 2009), according to the newly released QS World University Rankings 2024, putting Chula at 211th in the world, up from 244th last year.
BEIJING, Sept. 22, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 2025 Dehua International Porcelain Culture Week kicked off on Friday in Dehua County of Quanzhou City in southeast China’sFujian Province. The event featured 26 supporting activities, including thematic exhibitions and skill exchanges, comprehensively showcasing the development of Dehua porcelains over the decade.
Photo shows the commemorative signing ceremony to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the “World Ceramic Capital – Dehua” title during the 2025 Dehua International Porcelain Culture Week. (Photo provided by the event organizer)
Fang Junqin, head of Dehua County, stated at the opening ceremony that Dehua is presenting a new picture of the inheritance and innovation of ceramic culture and its expanding presence across the globe.
Over the past decade, Dehua white porcelain, dubbed the “Blanc de Chine” (White from China), has continued to shine on the international ceramic stage with its exceptional craftsmanship and unique artistic charm. Dehua’s achievements in ceramics fully demonstrate the vitality and creativity of traditional crafts, setting an outstanding example for the global handicraft industry, said Saad Al-Qaddumi, president of the World Crafts Council.
During the event, the group standard “T/CCIA 0026-2024 artistic ceramic flowerpots” was officially released. Zeng Liafeng, general manager of Dehua Tongxin ceramics Co., Ltd., one of the main drafting units, said that the company will focus on building a smart manufacturing industrial park that integrates intelligence, digitalization, automation, and cultural tourism.
Looking back at the development of China’s ceramic industry, there is not only the inheritance of skills and innovation in materials, but also a rise in cultural confidence and expanded international influence, said Liu Ting, chairman of the China Ceramic Industry Association, who also added that Dehua ceramics have not only achieved scale and cluster development, but also set benchmarks in green development, design innovation, and cultural dissemination.
Dehua is home to over 4,500 ceramic enterprises and employs more than 100,000 people. It is one of the largest production and export bases for ceramic crafts in China, with products sold to more than 190 countries and regions, and overseas sales accounting for over 60 percent of the total.
The county has now established a complete industrial chain spanning raw material supply, manufacturing, design, research and development, and marketing.
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