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Antengene to Present Latest Preclinical Results of Novel Cos-TCE Platform in Rapid Oral Abstract Presentation at SITC 2026

SHANGHAI and HONG KONG, Oct. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Antengene Corporation Limited (“Antengene”, SEHK: 6996.HK), a leading innovative, commercial-stage global biotech company dedicated to discovering, developing and commercializing first-in-class and/or best-in-class medicines for autoimmune diseases, solid tumors and hematological malignancies, today announced that it will present the latest preclinical results of its novel costimulatory T cell engager (Cos-TCE) platform in a Rapid Oral Abstract Presentation at the 2026 Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer Annual Meeting (SITC 2026), taking place from November 4th to 8th, 2026, at the Phoenix Convention Center, Phoenix, Arizona, U.S.

Details of the Poster Presentation

Title: A CD2-based costimulatory T cell engager platform integrating a novel CD3γε/δε-targeting antibody and steric-hindrance-based CD3 masking
Abstract: 15749

Rapid Oral Abstract Presentation

Presenting Author: Dr. Bing Hou, Antengene’s Chief Scientific Officer
Topic Selection: Rapid Oral – Basic 1
Date: Friday, November 6, 2026
Time: 12:30 PM – 01:30 PM (Eastern Time)
          01:30 AM – 02:30 AM , November 7 (Beijing Time)

About Antengene

Antengene Corporation Limited (“Antengene“, SEHK: 6996.HK) is a global, R&D-driven, commercial-stage biotech company focused on developing first-in-class/best-in-class therapeutics for diseases with significant unmet medical needs. Its pipeline spans from preclinical to commercial stages, with key investigational candidates including ATG-022 (CLDN18.2 ADC), ATG-037 (oral CD73 inhibitor), ATG-101 (PD-L1 x 4-1BB bispecific antibody), ATG-125 (B7-H3 × PD-L1 bispecific ADC), ATG-207 (αCD3-TGF-β bifunctional fusion protein), as well as T cell engager (TCE) programs developed using Antengene’s proprietary AnTenGager® platform.

AnTenGager®, is Antengene’s proprietary TCE 2.0 platform, featuring “2+1” bivalent binding for low expressing targets, steric hindrance masking, and proprietary CD3 sequences with fast on/off kinetics to minimize cytokine release syndrome (CRS) and enhance efficacy. These characteristics support the platform’s broad applicability across autoimmune diseases, solid tumors and hematological malignancies, with programs targeting CD19 x CD3 (ATG-201 for B cell-related autoimmune diseases; partnered with UCB), CDH6 x CD3 (ATG-106 for ovarian cancer and kidney cancer; partnered with K2 Therapeutics established by MPM BioImpact), ALPPL2 x CD3 (ATG-112 for gynecological tumors, digestive system malignancies, bladder cancer and NSCLC), LY6G6D x CD3 (ATG-110 for microsatellite-stable colorectal cancer), GPRC5D x CD3 (ATG-021 for multiple myeloma), LILRB4 x CD3 (ATG-102 for acute myeloid leukemia and chronic myelomonocytic leukemia) and FLT3 x CD3 (ATG-107 for acute myeloid leukemia).

To date, Antengene has obtained 35 investigational new drug (IND) approvals in the U.S. and Asia, and obtained new drug application (NDA) approvals in 10 Asia Pacific markets. Its lead commercial asset, XPOVIO® (selinexor), is approved in the Mainland of China, Taiwan China, Hong Kong China, Macau China, South Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and Australia, and has been included in the national insurance schemes in five of these markets (Mainland of China, Taiwan China, Australia, South Korea and Singapore).

Forward-looking statements

The forward-looking statements made in this article relate only to the events or information as of the date on which the statements are made in this article. Except as required by law, we undertake no obligation to update or revise publicly any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, after the date on which the statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events. You should read this article completely and with the understanding that our actual future results or performance may be materially different from what we expect. In this article, statements of, or references to, our intentions or those of any of our Directors or our Company are made as of the date of this article. Any of these intentions may alter in light of future development. For a further discussion of these and other factors that could cause future results to differ materially from any forward-looking statement, please see the other risks and uncertainties described in the Company’s Annual Report for the year ended December 31, 2025, and the documents subsequently submitted to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.

For more information, please contact:

PR / IR Contacts: 
Peter Qian
E-mail: peter.qian@antengene.com 

BD Contacts:
Ariel Guo
E-mail: ariel.guo@antengene.com

Agricultural Corporation Geumsan Insamju to Showcase Traditional Ginseng Liquor Craftsmanship at ‘2026 International Ginseng Trade Fair’

Food Master-certified liquor maker to present traditional production techniques and signature products to domestic and international buyers

SEOUL, South Korea, Oct. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Agricultural Corporation Geumsan Insamju will take part in the “2026 International Ginseng Trade Fair,” held from October 2 to 11 at the plaza of the Geumsan World Ginseng Expo, presenting its traditional ginseng liquor production techniques and flagship products.

During the event, Geumsan Insamju will operate a promotional booth and display its key products, including yakju (medicinal rice wine) and general distilled spirits made with domestic rice and ginseng. The company will introduce its products and brand to domestic and international visitors and buyers, and will also hold live demonstrations of its traditional ginseng liquor production process along with product tastings.

Based in Geumsan, South Chungcheong Province, Geumsan Insamju is a liquor producer that carries on a ginseng liquor-making technique designated as Korea’s Food Master No. 2 and Intangible Cultural Heritage No. 19. The company produces yakju and general distilled spirits using domestic rice and ginseng, and continues to develop new products, design, and brand enhancements tailored to modern consumer tastes, building on its long-standing production techniques and tradition.

In particular, the company highlights its production method as a key point of differentiation from conventional ginseng-infused liquors. Geumsan Insamju produces its ginseng distilled spirits by adding ginseng from the fermentation stage — based on domestic rice and nuruk (fermentation starter) — and then applying vacuum distillation. Rather than simply adding ginseng to a finished liquor, the company’s distinguishing feature is incorporating ginseng throughout the brewing process itself.

While preserving traditional production techniques, the company is also focused on modernizing its products. Geumsan Insamju has developed products at various alcohol content levels and applied contemporary packaging, working to present ginseng liquor with a younger, more refined image. More recently, the company has been expanding its export and marketing efforts beyond the domestic market into overseas markets, including the United States, pursuing growth as a global brand that promotes both Korean ginseng and liquor culture together.

At this year’s International Ginseng Trade Fair, Geumsan Insamju has prepared a program that allows visitors to experience its traditional production techniques firsthand. Activities during the event will include: a traditional ginseng liquor production demonstration led directly by the Food Master; tastings of Geumsan Insamju’s key products; an exhibition and introduction of yakju and general distilled spirits made with domestic rice and ginseng; and promotion of the company’s products and production techniques to domestic and international buyers.

In particular, the production demonstration led directly by the Food Master will showcase, on-site, the ginseng liquor-making process that has been passed down over many years. Rather than simply displaying finished products, the company aims to let visitors experience both the production technique and the product together, highlighting what sets Geumsan Insamju’s method and tradition apart from conventional ginseng-infused liquors.

Product tastings will be held alongside the demonstrations. By explaining the value of ginseng liquor made through traditional production methods while also presenting a range of modernized products, the event will showcase both the preservation of tradition and the modernization of products that Geumsan Insamju has pursued.

Geumsan Insamju also plans to use the trade fair as a touchpoint for expanding into overseas markets. The company will engage directly with domestic and international buyers visiting the event to gauge overseas market response and demand for its products, while identifying new export markets and sales channels. In particular, the company is focused on raising awareness of ginseng liquor made with domestic ginseng in overseas markets, including the United States.

Separate preparations for overseas expansion are also underway. Geumsan Insamju is utilizing an export voucher program to produce promotional videos in foreign languages and strengthen product and brand promotion targeting overseas consumers and buyers. The company is also conducting market-entry strategy consulting to closely analyze local market conditions, consumer characteristics, and distribution and marketing directions.

Building on this groundwork, Geumsan Insamju plans to develop a market-entry strategy tailored to the U.S. market, identify new buyers and distribution channels, and pursue a substantive increase in exports. Going forward, the company aims to leverage the experience and results it accumulates in the U.S. market to gradually expand into additional export regions, with the goal of growing into a global liquor brand that introduces the value of Korean ginseng liquor to the world market.

PMET Resources Files Amended Version of its NI 43-101 Technical Report on the CV5 Lithium-Only Feasibility Study Previously Published in 2025 on its Shaakichiuwaanaan Project

Following a routine review by the Autorité des marchés financiers (“AMF”), the government agency responsible for regulating securities in the Province of Québec, Canada, the Company has filed an amended Technical Report (as defined below) correcting certain compliance-related irregularities.

HIGHLIGHTS

  • The clarification, formatting and additional disclosure in the amended Technical Report have no impact on the economic or technical conclusions of the 2025 Lithium-only FS (as defined below) which remain as previously stated.
  • The re-filing is not to be confused with the previously announced updated feasibility study inclusive of tantalum economics that is currently underway which the Company intends to release in Q4 of this year.

MONTREAL, Oct. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Oct. 3, 2026 – SYDNEY, Australia 

PMET Resources Inc. (the “Company” or “PMET”) (TSX: PMET) (ASX: PMT) (OTCQX: PMETF) (FSE: R9GA)
 announces that, following a routine review pursuant to the continuous disclosure review program by the AMF, it has filed on SEDAR+ an amended version, with an unchanged effective date of October 20, 2025, an issue date of November 14, 2025 and an amended date of October 2, 2026, of its previously filed technical report for the Shaakichiuwaanaan Project titled “CV5 Pegmatite Lithium-Only Feasibility Study NI 43-101 Technical Report – Shaakichiuwaanaan Project” (the “Technical Report”), prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 – Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (“NI 43-101”). The amended Technical Report is a reissuance of the results originally announced in the October 20, 2025, news release by the Company announcing a positive lithium-only feasibility study (“FS”) on the CV5 Pegmatite outlining the potential for a large-scale mining operation at the Shaakichiuwaanaan Project.

The amended Technical Report addresses comments requesting clarification, formatting and additional disclosure for compliance purposes in a small number of areas, including, qualified persons’ certificates content, improper scaling and map formatting, clarifications with respect to the reasonable prospects for eventual economic extraction for caesium, tantalum, and gallium, and clarifications with respect to the cut-off grade for caesium oxide.

The corrections causing the refiling do not, in any way, shape or form, affect the economic or technical conclusions of the FS. Furthermore, this amended Technical Report is not to be confused with the previously announced updated feasibility study inclusive of tantalum economics that the Company currently has underway and intends to release in Q4 of this year.

The amended version of the report is available on SEDAR+ and will be available shortly thereafter on the Company’s website. Readers are encouraged to read the amended Technical Report in its entirety, including all qualifications, assumptions, exclusions and risks that relate to the Mineral Resource, Mineral Reserve, and life of mine plan. The amended Technical Report is intended to be read as a whole, and sections should not be read or relied upon out of context.

About PMET Resources Inc.

PMET Resources Inc. is a pegmatite critical mineral exploration and development company focused on advancing its district-scale 100%-owned Shaakichiuwaanaan Property located in the Eeyou Istchee James Bay region of Quebec, Canada, which is accessible year-round by all-season road and proximal to regional hydro-power infrastructure.

In late 2025, the Company announced a positive lithium-only Feasibility Study on the CV5 Pegmatite for the Shaakichiuwaanaan Property and declared a maiden Mineral Reserve of 84.3 Mt at 1.26% Li2O (Probable)1. The study outlines the potential for a competitive and globally significant high-grade lithium project targeting up to ~800 ktpa spodumene concentrate using a simple Dense Media Separation (“DMS”) only process flowsheet. Further, the results highlight Shaakichiuwaanaan as a potential North American critical mineral powerhouse with significant opportunity for tantalum and caesium in addition to lithium.

The Project hosts a Consolidated Mineral Resource2 totalling 108.0 Mt at 1.40% Li2O and 166 ppm Ta2O5 (Indicated) and 33.4 Mt at 1.33% Li2O and 155 ppm Ta2O5 (Inferred), and ranks as a top ten lithium pegmatite globally in size. Additionally, the Project hosts the world’s largest pollucite-hosted caesium pegmatite Mineral Resource at the Rigel and Vega zones with 0.69 Mt at 4.40% Cs2O (Indicated), and 1.70 Mt at 2.40% Cs2O (Inferred).

________________________
1 See Feasibility Study news release dated October 20, 2025. Probable Mineral Reserve cut-off grade is 0.40% Li2O (open-pit) and 0.70% Li2O (underground). Underground development and open-pit marginal tonnage containing material above 0.37% Li2O are also included in the statement. Effective Date of September 11, 2025.

This news release has been approved by

“KEN BRINSDEN”                               

Kenneth Brinsden, President, CEO, & Managing Director

Qualified/Competent Person(s)

The technical and scientific information in this news release that relates to the Mineral Resource  Estimate, exploration, and metallurgical results for the Company’s properties is based on, and fairly represents, information compiled by Mr. Darren L. Smith, M.Sc., P.Geo., who is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101, and member in good standing with the Ordre des Géologues du Québec (Geologist Permit number 01968), and with the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (member number 87868). Mr. Smith has reviewed and approved the related technical information in this news release.

Mr. Smith is an Executive and Vice President of Exploration for PMET Resources Inc. and holds common shares, Restricted Share Units (RSUs), Performance Share Units (PSUs), and options in the Company.

Mr. Smith has sufficient experience, which is relevant to the style of mineralization, type of deposit under consideration, and to the activities being undertaken to qualify as a Competent Person as described by the Australasian Code for Reporting of Exploration Results, Mineral Resources and Ore Reserves (the JORC Code). Mr. Smith consents to the inclusion in this news release of the matters based on his information in the form and context in which it appears.

The information in this news release that relates to the Mineral Reserve Estimate and Feasibility Study is based on, and fairly represents, information compiled by Mr. Frédéric Mercier-Langevin, Ing. M.Sc., who is a Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101, and member in good standing with the Ordre des Ingénieurs du Québec. Mr. Mercier-Langevin has reviewed and approved the related technical information in this news release.

Mr. Mercier-Langevin is the Chief Operating and Development Officer for PMET Resources Inc. and holds common shares, RSUs, PSUs, and options in the Company.

In accordance with ASX Listing Rule 5.23, the Consolidated MRE and Mineral Reserve for the Shaakichiuwaanaan Project in this news release was first reported in accordance with ASX Listing Rules 5.8 and 5.9 by the Company in market announcements titled “World’s Largest Pollucite-Hosted Caesium Pegmatite Mineral Resource Defined at Shaakichiuwaanaan” dated July 20, 2025 (Montreal time) and “PMET Resources Delivers Positive CV5 Lithium-Only Feasibility Study for its Large-Scale Shaakichiuwaanaan Project” dated October 20, 2025 (Montreal time). The Company confirms that, as of the date of this news release, it is not aware of any new information or data verified by the competent person that materially affects the information included in the announcements and that all material assumptions and technical parameters underpinning the estimates in the announcements continue to apply and have not materially changed. The Company confirms that, as at the date of this news release, the form and context in which the competent person’s findings are presented have not been materially modified from the original market announcements.

The information in this news release that relates to the production target and forecast financial information derived from the production target from the FS for the Shaakichiuwaanaan Project was first reported by the Company in accordance with ASX Listing Rules 5.16 and 5.17 in a market announcement titled “PMET Resources Delivers Positive CV5 Lithium-Only Feasibility Study for its Large-Scale Shaakichiuwaanaan Project” dated October 20, 2025 (Montreal time). The Company confirms that, as of the date of this news release, all material assumptions underpinning the production target and forecast financial information in the original announcement continue to apply and have not materially changed.

________________
2 Consolidated MRE (CV5 + CV13 pegmatites) is reported at an Li2O cut-off grade of 0.40% (open-pit), 0.60% (underground CV5), and 0.70% (underground CV13). A grade constraint of 0.50% Cs2O was used to model the Rigel and Vega caesium zones, contained entirely within CV13. The Effective Date is June 20, 2025. Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves as they do not have demonstrated economic viability. Mineral Resources are inclusive of Mineral Reserves.

Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information

All statements, other than statements of present or historical facts, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions and accordingly, actual results could differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. You are hence cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words or expressions such as “intend” or variations of such word or expressions and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results “may”, “could”, “would”, “might” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved.

Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements concerning the updated feasibility study inclusive of tantalum economics that the Company intends to release in Q4 of this year and the production targets, processing methods and potential for lithium, tantalum and caesium described in this news release..

Forward-looking statements are based upon certain assumptions and other important factors that, if untrue, could cause actual results to be materially different from future results expressed or implied by such statements. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate. Key assumptions upon which the Company’s forward-looking information is based include, without limitation, the Company’s ability to complete the previously announced updated feasibility study inclusive of tantalum economics on the anticipated timeline, that the results of the updated feasibility study will be consistent with management’s current expectations and will support the continued development of the project,  and the absence of material adverse changes in general economic, market, political or regulatory conditions.

Forward-looking statements are also subject to risks and uncertainties facing the Company’s business, any of which could have a material adverse effect on the Company’s business, financial condition, results of operations and growth prospects. Readers should review the detailed risk discussion in the Company’s most recent Annual Information Form filed on SEDAR+, for a fuller understanding of the risks and uncertainties that affect the Company’s business and operations.

Although the Company believes its expectations are based upon reasonable assumptions and has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that forward-looking information will prove to be accurate. If any of the risks or uncertainties mentioned above, which are not exhaustive, materialize, actual results may vary materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements.

The forward-looking statements contained herein are made only as of the date hereof. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except to the extent required by applicable law. The Company qualifies all of its forward-looking statements by these cautionary statements.

CONTACT : Olivier Caza-Lapointe, Head, Investor Relations, T: +1 (514) 913-5264, E: ocazalapointe@pmet.ca

Africa Business and Human Rights Forum Concludes in Dakar with Call for Stronger Action on Human Rights and the Environment

Fifth regional Forum brings together governments, business, civil society and the UN to advance responsible business conduct across Africa.

NEW YORK, Oct. 3, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The fifth Africa Business and Human Rights (BHR) Forum concluded today in Dakar, Senegal, bringing together governments, businesses, the UN, civil society, workers’ representatives, human rights experts and indigenous communities to accelerate responsible business conduct and strengthen the protection of human rights across the continent.

Held from 29 September to 1 October under the theme “Realizing the Right to a Clean, Healthy and Sustainable Environment through Responsible Business Conduct,” the three-day Forum focused on the growing intersection between business, human rights and environmental sustainability, and the practical action needed to protect people and the planet while supporting sustainable economic development.

The Forum was co-organized by the United Nations Global Compact, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the UN Working Group on Business and Human Rights, the UN Human Rights Office (OHCHR), UNICEF and the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights (ACHPR).

Marking its fifth edition, the Forum has become an important regional platform for advancing dialogue and action on business and human rights in Africa, a region estimated to lose approximately US$195 billion each year as a result of environmental degradation, illicit financial flows and unsustainable resource use.

At the same time, countries across the continent are strengthening frameworks for responsible business conduct, including through the development and adoption of National Action Plans on Business and Human Rights in Kenya, Uganda, Nigeria, Liberia, Ghana and soon-to-come, Malawi.

From commitments to implementation

Across three days of discussions, participants focused on practical approaches to strengthen business respect for human rights and environmental sustainability, with particular emphasis on:

  • Human rights and environmental due diligence: strengthening companies’ ability to identify, prevent, mitigate and account for adverse human rights and environmental impacts across their operations and value chains.
  • Water, sanitation, hygiene and land rights: addressing the impact of business activity on access to safe water, sanitation, hygiene and land, particularly for women and vulnerable and marginalized communities.
  • A just transition: exploring how Africa can harness its significant natural resources (30 per cent of the world’s known critical mineral reserves) while ensuring that the transition to greener economies is just, inclusive and grounded in human rights. 
  • Access to remedy: strengthening effective mechanisms through which people affected by business-related human rights abuses can seek redress, while ensuring affected communities have a meaningful voice in decisions that shape their lives and livelihoods.

Key outcomes

The Forum identified a number of priorities for continued action, including:

  • Enforcement and accountability: business commitments, National Action Plans and regulations must translate into real outcomes for people and the planet.
  • Beyond compliance: all actors must think beyond compliance. Human dignity must center decision making — meeting minimum thresholds is not enough.
  • Collaboration must deliver: no singular entity holds the solution. Systemic challenges need systemic solutions.
  • Achieving the right to a healthy, clean and sustainable environment and the just transition is only possible through real partnership across sectors and meaningful engagement of rightsholders, especially the most vulnerable.
  • Proportionate benefits: Africa is at the center of the global technological and green transition. Governments and economies must deliver fair, equitable, accessible and inclusive benefits for African peoples and avoid exploitative and harmful impacts on the environment and communities.
  • Policies and regulations must be coupled with enforcement and accountability. A Just Transition cannot be decoupled from access to effective remedies for victims.

Speaking at the opening of the Forum, HE Moussa Sarr, Minister of Justice and Keeper of the Seals of Senegal, announced that the country’s National Action Plan is under final review and underscored the importance of operationalizing human rights frameworks: “A right without a judge remains a promise. To build a resilient and equitable economy across Africa, responsible corporate conduct cannot remain theoretical — it requires accessible, effective remedy and judicial protections that uphold human dignity and safeguard our environment.”

Hervé Lado, Head of the Africa Hub at the United Nations Global Compact, said: “Harms to people and to nature are deeply intertwined, which is why corporate respect for human rights and environmental protection must go hand in hand. As the region advances energy transition and intra-Africa trade, responsible business conduct is vital for workers and communities. Every year, the Global Compact equips hundreds of companies across the continent to implement human rights due diligence, moving from commitments to practical solutions and positive impacts on the ground.”

The 2026 Africa Business and Human Rights Forum was delivered as a hybrid event, enabling both in-person and virtual participation for 1,100+ delegates, including 21% business representatives, from 45 African countries, especially Senegal, Kenya, Uganda, South Africa, DR Congo, Nigeria, Tanzania and Ghana.

Notes to Editors

About the United Nations Global Compact
As a special initiative of the United Nations Secretary-General, the UN Global Compact is a call to companies worldwide to align their operations and strategies with Ten Principles in the areas of human rights, labour, environment and anti-corruption. Our vision is clear: to mobilize business to transform sustainability ambition into action at the scale the world demands. With more than 25,000 participants and a presence in over 100 countries through 5 Regional Hubs and more than 70 Country Networks and expansion territories, the UN Global Compact is the world’s largest corporate sustainability initiative. For more information, follow @globalcompact on social media and visit the UN Global Compact website.

Wellness, Culture and Island Adventures: Experiencing Indonesia Through a Different Lens

SYDNEY, Oct. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — For Australian travellers, Indonesia can offer more than a familiar holiday. From wellness and culture to marine exploration and heritage, the journey can become an opportunity to experience destinations they may already know in new and more meaningful ways.

A key visual from Wonderful Indonesia's
A key visual from Wonderful Indonesia’s “Go Beyond Ordinary” campaign showcases Labuan Bajo’s underwater world, one of four destinations featured in the Ministry of Tourism’s latest Out-of-Home campaign across Sydney.

Indonesia is strengthening its commitment to quality tourism by placing the quality of the travel experience, the country’s natural and cultural heritage, and the value created for destinations and local communities at the heart of tourism development. For many Australian travellers, Indonesia is already a familiar destination. The opportunity now is to experience it differently, through journeys that are more personal, diverse and connected to the places, cultures and communities that shape each destination.

The Ministry of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia is approaching this potential from a new perspective. Through its Quality Tourism strategy, Indonesia is advancing a tourism model that places quality alongside quantity. The strategy prioritises niche experiences, including marine tourism, gastronomy, wellness, luxury and the arts, with the aim of attracting affluent travellers, encouraging longer stays and generating greater economic value for destinations and local communities.

This approach is brought to life through “Go Beyond Ordinary,” inviting Australian travellers to experience Indonesia beyond the destinations they may already know. Bali, Lombok,

Labuan Bajo and Borobudur offer complementary experiences, ranging from culture and wellness to nature and marine adventures, as well as history and heritage. These destinations illustrate different ways to experience Indonesia more deeply, rather than as separate stops on an itinerary.

Bali remains a destination with a strong connection to Australian travellers, yet the island offers much more than its beaches and popular tourism areas. Rice terraces, traditional villages, local rituals, gastronomy and wellness experiences provide different ways to discover Bali.

In Lombok, nature and Sasak culture come together to shape a distinct experience. The Gili Islands offer marine experiences, while Mount Rinjani provides opportunities for nature-based adventure.

Further east, the journey turns towards the sea, Labuan Bajo offers a marine experience shaped by the extraordinary underwater ecosystems of Komodo National Park. Diving and snorkelling allow travellers to encounter diverse coral reefs and marine life.

Borobudur brings a different dimension to the journey, rooted in history, culture and spirituality. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the ninth-century Buddhist temple features thousands of relief panels and hundreds of stupas.

Minister of Tourism of the Republic of Indonesia, Widiyanti Putri Wardhana, said, “Quality Tourism is about creating a stronger connection between travellers, destinations and the communities that shape them. It means encouraging journeys that go beyond seeing a place, towards understanding its character, experiencing it more deeply and creating lasting value for the destinations visited. In that spirit, we invite Australian travellers to explore further and discover more meaningful experiences across Indonesia.”

To support more personalised journeys, the Ministry of Tourism has also introduced MaiA (Meticulous Artificial Intelligence of Indonesia), an AI-powered travel assistant under the Tourism 5.0 programme accessible at indonesia.travel.

“THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL” HEADS TO SEA FOR THE FIRST TIME ON ROYAL CARIBBEAN’S HERO OF THE SEAS

Inspired by the hit Broadway musical and Nickelodeon animated series, the all-new production will bring the world of Bikini Bottom to life on the new Icon Class family vacation debuting August 2027

MIAMI, Oct. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Royal Caribbean is introducing “The SpongeBob Musical,*” the first-ever at-sea production inspired by the Tony award-winning Broadway show on Hero of the Seas when the fourth Icon Class vacation sets sail from Miami in August 2027. As part of the bold entertainment lineup on the newest family vacation, the adventure-packed show will bring the vibrant world of Bikini Bottom to life in the Royal Theater. “The SpongeBob Musical” joins Royal Caribbean’s award-winning entertainment portfolio, which continues to push the boundaries for experiences across stage, air, water and ice for vacationers of all ages.

Royal Caribbean has revealed “The SpongeBob Musical” as the headlining theater production on its fourth Icon Class ship, Hero of the Seas. Adventurers of all ages sailing on the newest family vacation can experience the vibrant world of Bikini Bottom when the Tony award-winning musical debuts on Hero from Miami in August 2027.
Royal Caribbean has revealed “The SpongeBob Musical” as the headlining theater production on its fourth Icon Class ship, Hero of the Seas. Adventurers of all ages sailing on the newest family vacation can experience the vibrant world of Bikini Bottom when the Tony award-winning musical debuts on Hero from Miami in August 2027.

“At Royal Caribbean, we’re focused on creating incredible experiences that bring families of all ages together in meaningful, memorable ways,” said Christi Coachman, vice president, entertainment, Royal Caribbean. “Our entertainment lineup on Hero of the Seas is designed with something for everyone. ‘The SpongeBob Musical’ delivers on that by bringing generations together through a story families know and love, while showcasing the creativity, cutting-edge technology and world-class production that can only be experienced on a Royal Caribbean vacation.”

From under the sea to at sea, “The SpongeBob Musical” on Hero will transform the beloved Nickelodeon animated series and 12-time Tony Award-nominated Broadway show into a reimagined production for the whole family that can be experienced only on Royal Caribbean. Filled with unexpected twists, larger-than-life characters, hit songs and above all – friendship, the adventure will show audiences that heroes can come from even the most unlikely places as SpongeBob and his Bikini Bottom friends race against time to save their town from total destruction.

Beyond groundbreaking entertainment for all ages, vacationers can go all in on adventure across eight neighborhoods with experiences including:

  • Crown’s Edge, part skywalk, part zip line experience suspended 154 feet above the ocean
  • Category 6, the largest waterpark at sea
  • Nine pools, including the new Coconut Cove pool and the adults-only The Hideaway, featuring two pools and the largest swim-up bar at sea
  • 28 dining venues, including the multi-course Orleans Parrish Supper Club; an immersive train car dining experience at Royal Railway – Hero Station; hands-on cooking classes in a new venue to be revealed and more
  • Brand-new family accommodations, including the three-deck Ultimate Family Treehouse featuring a rooftop terrace, whirlpool and two-deck teen space

Hero will take vacationers on 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean adventures from Miami, with every adventure visiting Royal Caribbean’s top-rated Perfect Day CocoCay in The Bahamas. Adventurers can choose to explore Western Caribbean spots like Cozumel, Mexico, and Roatan, Honduras, or head to tropical Eastern Caribbean destinations such as Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, and Philipsburg, St. Maarten.

For more information on Hero, vacationers can visit Royal Caribbean’s website.

About Royal Caribbean
Royal Caribbean, part of Royal Caribbean Group (NYSE: RCL), has delivered memorable vacations for more than 50 years. The cruise line’s game-changing ships and signature destinations revolutionize vacations with industry-leading innovations and an all-encompassing combination of experiences, from thrills and ways to chill, to dining and entertainment, for every type of family and vacationer. Voted “Best Cruise Line Overall” for 23 consecutive years in the Travel Weekly Readers Choice Awards, Royal Caribbean makes memories with adventurers across more than 300 destinations in 80 countries on all seven continents, including Perfect Day CocoCay in The Bahamas and Royal Beach Clubs in Paradise Island and Santorini, plus Royal Beach Club Lelepa coming soon. 

Media can stay up to date by following @RoyalCaribPR on X and visit www.RoyalCaribbeanPressCenter.com. For additional information or to book, vacationers can visit www.RoyalCaribbean.com, call (800) ROYAL-CARIBBEAN or contact their travel advisor.

About The SpongeBob Musical
The SpongeBob Musical is based on the beloved animated series created by Stephen Hillenburg and tells the story of the optimistic SpongeBob and his irresistible friends coming together to save their undersea world from volcanic destruction. The musical features a book by Tony Award-nominated, Obie Award-winning writer and musician Kyle Jarrow, with original songs by Yolanda Adams, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith, Sara Bareilles, Jonathan Coulton, Alexander Ebert of Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros, The Flaming Lips, Lady A, Cyndi Lauper, John Legend, Panic! At the Disco, Plain White T’s, They Might Be Giants and T.I., and songs by David Bowie, Tom Kenny and Andy Paley. Additional lyrics are by Jonathan Coulton, with additional music by Tom Kitt. The musical production was conceived by renowned writer, director and Drama Desk Award-winning Tina Landau.

About Paramount Products & Experiences 
Paramount Products & Experiences oversees all licensing, merchandising, and location-based experiences for Paramount, a Skydance Corporation (Nasdaq: PSKY), a leading next generation global media and entertainment company. The division brings to life iconic franchises and beloved characters through innovative products and immersive experiences across categories including toys, apparel, publishing, food and beverage, theme parks, hotels, cruises, attractions, and live entertainment. Its global portfolio is powered by content from brands such as Nickelodeon, Paramount Pictures, CBS, MTV, Comedy Central, and Paramount+, and fan-favorite franchises like PAW Patrol, SpongeBob SquarePants, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Star Trek and Yellowstone. To explore our range of consumer products and Paramount-branded merchandise, visit ParamountShop.com.

* Nickelodeon’s THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL based on the series by Stephen Hillenburg with a book by Kyle Jarrow, is presented in arrangement with Concord Theatricals. ©2026 Viacom International Inc. All Rights Reserved. Nickelodeon, SpongeBob SquarePants and all related titles, logos, and characters are trademarks of Viacom International Inc. www.concordtheatricals.com.

IRF Delegation Visits B3 Arch Bridge on Georgia’s North-South Corridor Road Project

TBILISI, Georgia, Oct. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — From September 30 to October 2, 2026, the 4th International Road Federation (IRF) Europe and Central Asia Regional Congress was held in Tbilisi, the capital of Georgia. On October 2nd, Roads Department of Georgia led a delegation of congress participants on a special visit to the construction site of the B3 Arch Bridge on the Kvesheti–Kobi section of Georgia’s North–South Corridor Highway, undertaken by China Railway 23rd Bureau Group Co., Ltd. The delegation inspected the progress of the project and gained first-hand insight into the capabilities of Chinese enterprises in constructing long-span bridges and implementing standardized project management under the extreme conditions of high-altitude alpine valleys.

IRF Delegation Visits B3 Arch Bridge on Georgia’s North–South Corridor Road Project
IRF Delegation Visits B3 Arch Bridge on Georgia’s North–South Corridor Road Project

The B3 Arch Bridge serves as a key controlling project for the Georgia North-South Corridor Road project. Located in a deep valley of the Caucasus Mountains, the bridge has a total length of 437.875 meters, a main arch net span of 286 meters, and a height difference of 164 meters from the bridge deck to the valley floor. It features a deck-type reinforced concrete separated twin-rib box arch structure, constructed using the cantilever casting method with cable-stayed anchoring. Subjected to extreme environmental challenges—including Beaufort scale 9 strong winds, severe cold down to -20°C, 2-meter-thick snow accumulation, and high-intensity seismic zones—the bridge, upon completion, will become the largest-span reinforced concrete arch bridge in the Caucasus region, with its span ranking among the top worldwide for similar cantilever-cast arch bridges.

During the inspection, the project team of China Railway 23rd Bureau Group delivered a detailed report to the accompanying delegates on core management measures and technical achievements. These included the implementation of European standards, FIDIC contract management, high-precision closure control for the twin-rib main arch, intelligent monitoring, and wind tunnel test verification. The delegation closely inspected and inquired about key structural components, such as the main arch ring construction, anchoring system, and cable hoisting system. They engaged in in-depth exchanges with the Chinese technical team on critical topics, including main arch alignment and stress control, construction procedures, winter construction safety assurance, full-lifecycle maintenance, and follow-up construction organization. The delegation representative stated that the North-South Corridor Road is one of the most vital transportation infrastructure projects in Georgia’s national development strategy, playing a decisive role in strengthening the country’s status as an Eurasian transit hub. As the most technically challenging controlling project along the entire route, the B3 Arch Bridge fully demonstrates the capability of Chinese enterprises in building large-scale bridges under complex geological and extreme climatic conditions. Strictly adhering to European technical specifications and the FIDIC management system, the project meets world-class standards in quality control, environmental protection, and localized employment, setting a new benchmark for highway and bridge construction in Georgia and across the broader Central Asia–Caucasus region.

 Han Shuai, project manager of the China Railway 23rd Bureau Co., Ltd. North–South Corridor Road Project, said that the company would take this visit by the IRF delegation as an opportunity to continue pursuing its overseas business philosophy of “Quality Delivery, Safety First, Standards Alignment and Local Integration.” The project team will make every effort to achieve key milestones, including the closure of the B3 main arch in 2026, and develop the project into a model of infrastructure cooperation between China and Georgia and a landmark project for bridge construction in high-altitude mountainous regions under the Belt and Road Initiative.

As a vivid embodiment of the theme of this year’s IRF Congress—”Resilient, Intelligent and Safe Roads Driving Sustainable Growth”—the site visit to the B3 Arch Bridge brought delegates from conference halls to the front lines of project construction, transforming conceptual discussions into first-hand evidence from an actual engineering project. The bridge spans not only the deep valleys of the Caucasus, but also represents a new level of mutual trust and cooperation between China, Europe and Central Asia in the field of transportation infrastructure.

 

Gareth Parker-Jones named Head of Education, Rendeavour, and Founding Master of Wellington College International Kenya

TATU CITY, Kenya, Oct. 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — One of the UK’s leading educators, Parker-Jones, will join Wellington Kenya as Founding Master a year ahead of the school’s official opening, in September 2028. He will be joined by his wife, Amanda Parker-Jones, who has been appointed Head of Teacher Development for the school.

Gareth Parker-Jones, currently Headmaster of a top-ranked Rugby School, will lead Wellington College International Kenya at Tatu City from 1 September 2027.
Gareth Parker-Jones, currently Headmaster of a top-ranked Rugby School, will lead Wellington College International Kenya at Tatu City from 1 September 2027.

Developed by Rendeavour, Africa’s new city builder, in partnership with Wellington College, Wellington Kenya is the second school in the Wellington College Education family in Africa, alongside Rendeavour’s Wellington College International Lagos, and part of a wider network of 12 super premium British schools spanning the UK, China, Thailand, India, Indonesia and the United States.

Located in Tatu City, Africa’s leading new city, Wellington Kenya is a co-educational boarding and day school for pupils aged 3 to 18, attracting families locally, regionally and globally. With access to Kenya’s breathtaking landscapes, bountiful wildlife, rich cultural diversity, temperate weather and remarkable athletic excellence, Wellington Kenya is set within Tatu City’s 5,000 acres of lush parks, running and equestrian trails, legendary coffee estates, indigenous trees, lakes and rivers.  

Regarding his appointment, Gareth Parker-Jones said, “Wellington College International Kenya delivers a genuinely world-class education in arguably the most beautiful environment on Earth, carrying the full weight of the Wellington name. Backed by the scale, expertise and ambition of Rendeavour, Wellington Kenya is a great success story in international education, and I could not be prouder to lead it as Head of Education, Rendeavour, and Founding Master.”

Commenting on the appointment, James Dahl, 15th Master of Wellington College, said, “I am absolutely thrilled to be welcoming Gareth Parker-Jones to the Wellington College Education family. Gareth is one of the UK’s leading heads and has had a transformational impact at Rugby School, raising standards, developing a vibrant and growing family of schools in England and around the world, and acting as a thoughtful and thought-provoking ambassador for the sector. I have known Gareth for many years and have the deepest respect for him both personally and professionally; Wellington College International Kenya could not be in better hands. We congratulate Gareth, Amanda and the family in this exciting new chapter, and I very much look forward to working alongside such accomplished educationalists.”

The appointment of Parker-Jones, who has a strong background in boarding, signals the scale of ambition of Wellington Kenya. Alongside its day school provision, boarding will be an important part of Wellington Kenya’s identity, character, community and pastoral offer from day one. This will give families the flexibility of both day and boarding options, while ensuring that the boarding experience is delivered to the same exacting standard as Wellington College Education family of schools around the world.

Stephen Jennings, Founder and CEO of Rendeavour, added, “To attract a Founding Master of Gareth’s renown and experience is itself a statement of our intent and the ambition we hold for the school. Having spent considerable time with Gareth and his wife, Amanda, I have no doubt whatsoever that we have found the perfect leaders for building one of the best school in the world. Great cities are built around great institutions, and world-class education is central to attracting families, employers, and investment over the long term. Wellington Kenya will set a new benchmark for educational excellence – establishing a world-class school in the heart of East Africa, so families no longer need to look abroad for extraordinary schooling. Gareth’s appointment gives us the leadership, warmth, and vision to turn that ambition into reality from day one. Our goal is to build a learning community that seamlessly combines Wellington’s global educational heritage with a strong local identity, one that will serve families across the region for generations.”

WCIK Contact  
Deborah Stanford
Head of Admissions & Marketing at Wellington Kenya
Admissions@wellingtoncollege.ke

Media Contact
Prudence Karimi                                                  
Pkarimi@tatucity.com
+254 795 368 905