As powerful earthquakes rattle Japan’s southern Tokara Islands, Lao students living in the country are confronting the reality of natural disasters in ways they never experienced back home.
Japan’s Quake Swarm Shakes Lao Students into Preparedness
Cushman & Wakefield Takes Gold, Silver and Bronze Prizes at Phoenix Tree Marketing Awards 2025
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 July 2025 – Cushman & Wakefield, a leading global real estate services firm, has won the Gold Prize in the Integrated Marketing category at the 11th Phoenix Tree Digital Marketing Summit 2025 and Awards Ceremony for the firm’s Better Never Settles brand campaign. The firm also won the Silver Prize in the ESG Marketing category for its Earth Day campaign; and the Bronze Prize in the Video Marketing category for its Better Never Settles video series.
Cushman & Wakefield launched the Better Never Settles brand campaign in Greater China in June 2024. The firm conducted marketing activities both internally and externally through a range of channels including online social platforms and offline in-person events, significantly enhancing brand impact, demonstrating a market-leading position and marking an important milestone for the branding campaign globally.
Cushman & Wakefield Greater China launched a one-month Earth Day — Planet vs Plastics campaign, running from April 22 to May 22, in conjunction with Bottloop, a pioneer in recycling and environmental conservation. Staff across more than 20 offices actively engaged in the campaign, which was widely featured through a range of channels including WeChat, Weibo and leading media outlets, achieving more than 90,000 views and demonstrating a successful ESG marketing initiative.
The firm’s Better Never Settles video series has been one of the most notable Better Never Settles campaign elements. The short-format video series showcased four team members from different markets and different business units sharing their stories on how they bring “Better never settles” into their lives when they engage in sports, arts, career development and in their personal lives. The video series reached over 140,000 views, generating significant buzz in the industry and reinforcing the firm’s strong branding.
KK Chiu, Chief Executive, Greater China, Cushman & Wakefield, said, “We are honored to receive such high recognition for our excellent performance at the 11th Phoenix Tree Marketing Awards. This achievement reflects the trust and respect from our clients, media and the real estate community, and marks an important milestone in the growth of our marketing capabilities across Greater China. We will continue to deliver innovative and integrated marketing initiatives to strengthen our brand positioning and elevate our industry presence because at Cushman & Wakefield, better never settles.”
Founded in 2015 at the inaugural WMMS Global Mobile Marketing Summit, the Phoenix Tree Awards form part of the industry’s premier recognition for mobile marketing excellence. Judged by an independent panel of senior experts, the awards evaluate criteria including innovation, strategy, execution and impact, celebrating companies that set new standards in brand marketing. Over the years, they have evolved into a symbol of professionalism and prestige, renowned for honoring high-quality case studies that drive industry advancement.
Hashtag: #Cushman&Wakefield
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Cushman & Wakefield
Cushman & Wakefield (NYSE: CWK) is a leading global commercial real estate services firm for property owners and occupiers with approximately 52,000 employees in nearly 400 offices and 60 countries. In Greater China, a network of 23 offices serves local markets across the region. In 2024, the firm reported revenue of $9.4 billion across its core services of Valuation, Consulting, Project & Development Services, Capital Markets, Project & Occupier Services, Industrial & Logistics, Retail, and others. Built around the belief that Better never settles, the firm receives numerous industry and business accolades for its award-winning culture. For additional information, visit 
www.cushmanwakefield.com.hk or follow us on LinkedIn (
https://www.linkedin.com/company/cushman-&-wakefield-greater-china).
Tripartite Cooperation Accelerates: Promoting Logistics and Tourism along the China-Laos-Thailand Railway
A press conference convened in Thailand’s Khon Kaen on 14 July to promote the forthcoming Logistics and Tourism Promotion Meeting along the China-Laos-Thailand Railway, scheduled for 19 August at the Mekong Institute.
A press conference was held in Thailand’s Khon Kaen on 14 July to promote the upcoming Logistics and Tourism Promotion Meeting along the China-Laos-Thailand Railway, scheduled for 19 August at the Mekong Institute.
The initiative is a joint collaboration between the Mekong Institute, the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Khon Kaen, and the Foreign Affairs Office of Yunnan Provincial People’s Government, PRC. The goal is to demonstrate a shared vision of using infrastructure and connectivity to foster inclusive development, economic integration, and people-to-people cooperation between China, Laos, and Thailand.
In her opening speech, Yang Ning, Deputy Consul General of China in Khon Kaen, emphasized the transformative potential of the railway.
“Today’s press conference marks not only the commencement of the campaign but also the continuation of our shared vision. The China-Laos-Thailand railway stands as a symbol of international friendship and sustainable development.”
She noted the railway’s role in boosting cross-border trade and tourism while strengthening ties among the people of the three nations. She also highlighted initiatives like the Top 10 Destinations campaign as opportunities to unlock new prospects for local communities, businesses, and the tourism sector.
“China remains committed to supporting regional integration through practical cooperation toward shared prosperity.”
Suriyan Vichitlekarn, Executive Director of the Mekong Institute, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that the railway represents more than a physical route but serves as a strategic pathway for regional economic recovery and resilience.
“This is more than a transportation corridor, it’s a platform for sustainable logistics, tourism, and inclusive growth,” he said, introducing the objectives of the 19 August meeting.
A key highlight of the press conference was the announcement of the “Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Northeastern Thailand” campaign, which runs from 18 July to 8 August. The public is invited to vote via the Mekong Institute’s official Facebook page to select outstanding, rail-accessible destinations in Isaan. Participants can also share their opinions and sentiments about their favorite places for a chance to win travel vouchers worth up to THB 5,000 (approximately USD 154.30), with winners announced at the August conference.
Suriyan explained that the campaign seeks to promote each area’s local tourism assets, celebrate cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and community-based experiences.
“This is an opportunity to showcase the richness of Isaan and to involve both tourists and locals in shaping narratives along the railway corridor.”
The press conference was attended by over 40 participants, both onsite and online. It featured Q&A sessions, media interviews, and networking opportunities. Beyond media attention, the event aims to broaden the regional impact of this cooperation framework.
The Logistics and Tourism Promotion along the China–Laos–Thailand Railway will be held on 19 August in Khon Kaen, featuring a comprehensive range of activities including plenary talks, breakout discussions, exhibitions, and business matching sessions. The conference will convene key stakeholders, policymakers, industry experts, business leaders, entrepreneurs, investors, and development partners interested in advancing the railway corridor’s potential.
Vientiane’s BRT Project Reaches Over 80% Completion
Vientiane’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project has now reached 81.5 percent completion as of early June, with construction teams focusing on final-phase upgrades to traffic systems, sidewalks, and roadside parking areas.
Dusit International expands across the lodging spectrum, launches ninth hotel brand – Dusit Hotels
Refined upper-upscale brand is tailored for 120–300 key properties in prime urban and resort locations, delivering market-relevant experiences enriched by Dusit’s signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 July 2025 – Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies, has expanded its global hospitality portfolio with the official launch of Dusit Hotels – its ninth hotel brand – designed to deliver tailored upper-upscale experiences that balance brand consistency with the unique needs of each market in strategic city and leisure destinations worldwide.
Dusit’s ninth hotel brand – Dusit Hotels – is designed to deliver refined, upper-upscale experiences that are market-relevant, locally rooted, and enriched by Thai-inspired gracious hospitality. Now open in Doha, Qatar; Hanoi, Vietnam; and Chengdu, China – with Manila, Philippines set to join in 2026.
Already introduced at three operating hotels – Dusit Hotel Doha, Qatar; Dusit Le Palais Tu Hoa, Hanoi, Vietnam; and Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu, China – with another distinctive property, Dusit Hotel Greenhills, Manila, Philippines, signed and set to open in 2026, the new brand has already marked its presence in key markets across Asia and the Middle East, laying a strong foundation for future growth.
Created in response to the growing demand from hotel owners and developers for distinctive properties that combine international standards with a strong sense of local identity, Dusit Hotels is positioned to deliver memorable guest experiences rooted in the unique cultural and physical context of each destination – all underpinned by Dusit’s signature Thai-inspired gracious hospitality.
Defined by a timeless, warm, and welcoming aesthetic, and guided by the tagline “Distinctly Elevated, Perfected by Place,” Dusit Hotels are crafted with the soul of each location in mind and designed to offer superior levels of comfort for business and leisure travellers of all generations. Public spaces feature curated art and locally inspired details that enhance the sense of place, while integrated smart technologies enrich the stay experience.
With a target range of 120 to 300 keys per property, Dusit Hotels is ideally suited for conversions and purpose-built developments that seek to balance refined comfort and contemporary design with market-relevant facilities, such as destination dining, multi-functional event spaces, and wellness offerings tailored to today’s travellers.
At each location, Dusit Hotels has demonstrated its ability to deliver refined, upper-upscale experiences rooted in local character and contemporary elegance.
Located by Hanoi’s West Lake, the 207-key Dusit Le Palais Tu Hoa, Hanoi blends Thai-inspired gracious service with Vietnamese heritage, drawing inspiration from the legacy of Princess Từ Hoa, who famously left the royal court to teach silk weaving to the local people, to offer a unique cultural connection through its design, storytelling, and curated dining experiences.
In Chengdu, the 248-key Dusit Hotel AG Park, Chengdu embraces its natural setting amidst the scenic surrounds of Tianfu Agricultural Expo Park with guided nature-based activities, farm-to-table dining, and sustainability-led programming aligned with Dusit’s group-wide sustainability initiative, Tree of Life, all contributing to a guest experience that’s both mindful and memorable.
Dusit Hotel Doha, meanwhile, with 261 well-appointed guestrooms and suites, plus 96 elegant apartments in the heart of Doha’s vibrant West Bay area, has carved a niche in the Qatari capital’s competitive hospitality landscape by offering warm, personalised service, a variety of international dining options, and wellness experiences delivered through Dusit’s signature Devarana Wellness concept. From in-room rituals to a full-floor spa, the hotel demonstrates how Dusit Hotels can thoughtfully integrate well-being into the guest journey in a way that is meaningful, accessible, and market-relevant.
The latest signing under the Dusit Hotels brand – Dusit Hotel Greenhills, Manila – is set to open in Q4 2026. Occupying the top 10 floors of Primex Tower, a landmark 50-storey mixed-use development in Metro Manila’s San Juan City, the 200-key hotel will feature premium facilities, including Benjarong Thai restaurant, an all-day dining restaurant, a rooftop bar, a rooftop swimming pool, and a ballroom with spectacular city views.
Together, these properties illustrate the brand’s versatility and appeal – bringing Dusit’s gracious hospitality and service excellence to life in distinctive ways, guided by a consistent upper-upscale positioning.
“Our latest brand has been carefully developed to meet the evolving needs of both hotel owners and modern travellers alike,” said Mr Gilles Cretallaz, Chief Operating Officer, Dusit International. “As we continue to reposition the Dusit Thani brand firmly within the luxury segment, Dusit Hotels marks a strategic expansion of our presence in the upper-upscale space, reinforcing our evolution across the lodging spectrum. This new brand allows us to bring our unique Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to a broader range of properties, while giving owners the scope to tailor experiences to their specific markets – all backed by our proven systems, global distribution, and operational excellence. With a strong focus on comfort, character, and locality, each hotel will resonate deeply with domestic and international guests seeking purposeful, memorable stays.”
Dusit’s global portfolio currently comprises 294 properties across 18 countries, including 55 hotels and resorts and 239 luxury villa rentals. The company’s nine brands span the lodging spectrum from affordable lifestyle to bespoke luxury. Alongside Dusit Hotels, the group’s other brands include Devarana – Dusit Retreats (Wellness Luxury), Dusit Thani (Bespoke Luxury), Dusit Collection (Character Luxury), dusitD2 (Lifestyle Upscale), Dusit Princess (Upper Midscale), ASAI Hotels (Lifestyle Midscale), Dusit Suites (Lifestyle Long Stay), and Elite Havens (Luxury Villa Rentals).
Across its portfolio, Dusit has already signed 14 new properties this year and has over 60 in the pipeline, reflecting strong demand for its distinctive hospitality offerings worldwide. Dusit Hotels is expected to continue this momentum, with strong developer interest in key markets.
“With three Dusit Hotels already in operation and another distinctive property in the pipeline, our newest brand has already resonated strongly with our target market as well as development partners,” said Mr Siradej Donavanik, Vice President – Development (Global). “Reflecting strong demand for this offering, we anticipate signing eight additional Dusit Hotels within the next two years, in key gateway destinations, both cities and resorts. For developers seeking a refined, versatile, and future-ready concept with proven performance and global support, Dusit Hotels presents a compelling opportunity.”
Hashtag: #dusitinternational
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Dusit Hotels and Resorts
Dusit Hotels and Resorts is the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies. With a heartfelt belief and commitment to introducing Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to the world, Dusit Hotels and Resorts offers guests a uniquely special stay in high-style surroundings and a personalised approach to service. The group’s portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes close to 300 properties operating under a total of nine brands (Devarana – Dusit Retreats, Dusit Thani, Dusit Collection, Dusit Hotels, dusitD2, Dusit Suites, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 18 countries worldwide.
For more information, please visit dusit.com
About Dusit International
Established in 1948, Dusit International or Dusit Thani Public Company Limited (DUSIT) is a leading hospitality group listed on the Stock Exchange of Thailand. Its operations comprise five distinct yet complementary business units: Dusit Hotels and Resorts, Dusit Hospitality Education, Dusit Foods, Dusit Estate, and Hospitality-Related Services.
Dusit International‘s diversified investments in real estate development, hospitality-related services, and the food sector are part of its long-term strategy for sustainable growth, which focuses on three key areas: balance, expansion and diversification.
For more information, please visit dusit-international.com
Tanoto Foundation Presents Community-Led Early Childhood Parenting Models from Indonesia and China at ARNEC Regional Conference 2025
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 July 2025 – At the recent Asia-Pacific Regional Network for Early Childhood (ARNEC) Regional Conference 2025, Tanoto Foundation, an independent philanthropic organization that catalyzes systems change in education and healthcare, presented its successful community-driven early childhood parenting models from Indonesia and China. The two initiatives, Rumah Anak SIGAP from Indonesia and the HOPE (Harnessing Opportunity through Parenting and Education) program from China, showcased proven methods for boosting child development in rural and underserved communities.
These initiatives address the critical 0–3 age window, a golden period in a child’s life marked by rapid brain development that reaches up to 80 percent of an adult’s brain size. A study by the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University highlights that brain cell development during early childhood can reach up to 90 percent, laying the foundation for cognitive, language, motor, sensory, and emotional responses.
This period is especially challenging in many parts of Asia. A 2023 study by the Australian Council for Educational Research (ACER) revealed that 57 percent of children aged 0–3 in parts of Indonesia are at risk of not reaching their full developmental potential. The study also found that 26 percent of children live in low-quality caregiving environments. In China, a similar concern is the high rate of developmental delays among children aged 0–3 in rural areas, where more than 80 percent fail to meet at least one developmental indicator, according to a 2019 article in the Journal of Comparative Economics.
Impact in Indonesia: The Rumah Anak SIGAP Initiative
Tanoto Foundation’s Rumah Anak SIGAP program in Indonesia has demonstrated significant positive results. An impact evaluation showed that children in rural areas with initial developmental delays who received stimulation through the program recorded an average developmental score increase of 1.06 points, compared to a 0.53-point increase for urban children. By 2024, the program had reached over 3,000 children and parents through 29 service centers across five provinces: Banten, Central Java, East Kalimantan, Jakarta, and Riau.
The program’s success lies in empowering community cadres as agents of change, fostering the local ownership essential for sustainability. Ancilla Irwan, Education Development Lead, explained that this deep community and government collaboration transforms the program into “a vital part of an integrated caregiving ecosystem.” The strength of this model was underscored when the Mayor of Semarang, Agustina Wilujeng Pramestuti, presented her city’s initiative—which integrates a Rumah Anak SIGAP center with a stunting prevention center—at the same ARNEC conference.
“Out of 64 parents interviewed, 59 reported positive changes, such as improved breastfeeding practices, more nutritious feeding, and deeper engagement with their children. The most significant change happens at home, when parents begin to interact with their children consistently and attentively,” said Radi Negara, Impact Evaluation Lead at Tanoto Foundation.
Scaling Success in China: The HOPE Program
Mirroring this success, the HOPE program in China has effectively scaled its community-driven model to address developmental gaps. The program has successfully trained 330 facilitators and established 138 centers across five provinces: Beijing, Guizhou, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, and Shandong serving over 16,000 children aged 0–3 and their families in rural areas.
Wu Wei, Country Head of Tanoto Foundation China, explains that “Investing in Early Childhood Development (ECD) promotes social equity, breaks intergenerational poverty, and strengthens the human capital essential for China’s long-term sustainable development.”
As a Core Team member of ARNEC, Tanoto Foundation is committed to the network’s goal of advancing ECD by fostering strong partnerships, sharing knowledge, and advocating for children’s rights. This collaborative spirit was captured in the conference’s closing session by Eddy Henry, Head of Policy and Advocacy at Tanoto Foundation:
“This conference exemplifies how collaboration can drive knowledge mobilization, amplify voices, and advance the ECD agenda across the Asia-Pacific region. I hope every organization participating will now bring home and implement these best practices locally, helping influence policy changes to ensure every child has access to inclusive, equitable, and high-quality early childhood development.”
Hashtag: #TanotoFoundation
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Tanoto Foundation
At Tanoto Foundation, we unlock human potential, help communities thrive, and create lasting impact. Founded in 1981 by Sukanto Tanoto and Tinah Bingei Tanoto, we are an independent family foundation that believes in providing every person with the opportunity to realize his or her full potential. To do so, we catalyze systems change in education and healthcare. Our approach is impact-first, collaborative, and evidence-based. We invest for the long term and strive to develop leaders who can drive sustained, positive outcomes.
More information is available at 
www.tanotofoundation.org/en/.
Hundreds of Myanmar Troops, Civilians Flee Across Thai Border
AFP – More than 500 civilians and soldiers fled conflict in Myanmar and crossed into Thailand on Saturday after an assault by ethnic fighters on a military base, the Thai army said.
Vientiane Approves Stricter Waste Management Rules With Fines for Violators
The Vientiane Capital People’s Council has approved a new Agreement on Waste Management and Disposal, introducing sweeping reforms and stricter penalties aimed at reducing illegal dumping and improving environmental conditions across the capital.
