LUX* announces new openings in Africa, Southeast Asia and the Middle East, whilst SALT prepares for its debut in China this year 

PORT LOUIS, Mauritius, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The award-winning Mauritian-born global luxury hotel operator The Lux Collective has announced its expansion plans for 2025 and beyond, with new openings in the pipeline for China, Africa, the Middle East and Southeast Asia. The Group’s brand of boutique and purpose-led properties SALT will debut outside of Mauritius with two openings in China, whilst The Lux Collective’s flagship luxury brand LUX* will launch in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, as well as growing its presence in Africa with a futuristic, opulent safari-camp in Botswana. At the helm of this highly anticipated next chapter is The Lux Collective’s new Chief Executive Officer Olivier Chavy, who is paving the Group’s strategic presence in burgeoning travel destinations across the globe, and cementing its position as a trailblazing industry disruptor.

SALT brand expands outside of Mauritius for the first time

In Q2 2025, The Lux Collective will debut SALT of Anji in China, providing a gateway into the lush natural beauty of Anji County, a tranquil region known for its prized white tea and bamboo forests. Launched in 2018, SALT offers a humanistic approach to hospitality – connecting modern explorers to meaningful travel experiences, sustainability and local communities. As travellers increasingly seek emerging destinations to reconnect with nature and escape the crowds, Anji offers beautiful landscapes and preserved culture, just a 2.5-hour drive from Shanghai. Designed by renowned South African architect Peter Rich, SALT of Anji is inspired by Catalan architect Gaudí’s imaginative use of natural stone and elements to create showstopping structures. The sustainability-focused resort features 108 guestrooms and villas, with contemporary interior design to complement the building’s stone aesthetic. It has a scenic outdoor pool, themed restaurants and an elegant SALT Equilibrium spa centre. 

Continuing SALT’s journey in China, SALT of Mount Siguniang will launch in 2027, located in a Tibetan village in the Sichuan province on the doorstep of UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site, Mount Siguniang National Park. The first international property to open in this protected area of natural beauty, the resort will grant unparalleled access to magnificent peaks and emerald forests, being part of Sichuan Giant Panda Sanctuaries.

LUX* expands its presence with the first hotel management agreement in Southern Africa – LUX* Xinii Mababe, Botswana

Growing the LUX* footprints, the Group ventures further into new destinations in the Africa continent, following the successful opening of LUX* Marijani Zanzibar in Tanzania in July 2023. The Lux Collective and Diamond Power Pty Ltd have officially inked a hotel management agreement to operate and manage a new project – LUX* Xinii Mababe in Botswana.

An exclusive destination into the untamed natural surroundings of Mababe, LUX* Xinii Mababe is home to diverse wildlife, including large herds of buffalo, zebras, elephants and giraffes, as well as lions and leopards. Inspired by Botswana’s cultural heritage, the resort’s minimalistic architecture will be sustainably designed. All 26 lodges each features a centrepiece emulating striking African trees, rooting each lodge to the land. The symbolic roof structures honour the Okavango Delta’s indigenous Hambukushu tribes, also known as rainmakers of Okavango. Their distinctive funnel shape mirrors that of Hambukushu fishing baskets, while the conical design of each roof uses local materials and age-old conservation methods to harvest rainwater. 

Lyndon Jones, Founder of Diamond Power Pty Ltd and Owner of Xinii River Camp project in Botswana, remarks, “Recognised for its excellence and innovation in the global hospitality industry, our like-minded collaboration with The Lux Collective aims to make LUX* Xinii Mababe an unrivalled destination for opulent safari and wellness experiences, with thoughtful architecture and design inspired by the rich cultural heritage of Botswana and the Okavango. Our shared goal is to create a truly immersive and luxury wildlife experience through unique accommodation, culinary and wellness offerings for future guests whilst respecting the surrounding natural environment.” 

This successful collaboration has been facilitated by International Tourism Investment Corporation Ltd (ITIC), London-based global advisory boutique firm, which serves as the Transaction and Financial Advisor for this project.

LUX* debuts in the Middle East and grows presence in Asia

Flagship luxury brand LUX* will launch in the Middle East for the first time in Q4 2025 with LUX* Al Bridi and LUX* Al Jabal in Sharjah, UAE. Recognised as the ‘Culture Capital of the Arab World’ by UNESCO for its culture, art and history, Sharjah boasts an array of museums, mosques and cultural sites; including the Al Madam ghost town, enveloped by desert. A modern 45-key boutique-style resort overlooking the Gulf of Oman with jagged mountains, LUX* Al Jabal will offer exclusive access to a private beach, world-class dining options, a restorative LUX* ME Spa and opportunities for cultural immersion. Located in the wilderness, LUX* Al Bridi will open as a contemporary sanctuary of 35 luxurious safari-style tented retreats, created to resemble sand dunes, blending seamlessly into the surrounding landscape. On its doorstep is a wealth of experiences including dining in the wild, dune surfing, and four-wheel drive excursions to stargazing under the Arabian sky. 

In Asia, LUX* brand will also debut in Vietnam with the country’s and the region’s first overwater resort – LUXNAM* Phu Quoc in Q2 2026, a private paradise in the Kien Giang Biosphere Reserve, tucked between dense jungle and idyllic beaches on the northern tip of Phu Quoc island. Inspired by the Maldives’ iconic overwater resorts and overseeing panoramic seaviews, the 116 villa-only modernistic resort includes 99 overwater villas and 17 landed residences. The resort’s design with its LUX* ME Spa and specialty restaurants will reflect the best of island living, highlighting locally-crafted and traditional materials with a minimalist touch.

In Q3 2026, luxury urban resort LUX* Guangzhou will launch in Huangpu District, Guangzhou City, providing an oasis of calm in this fast-paced metropolis. Located in two skyscrapers comprising the luxurious resort and residences, LUX* Guangzhou boasts unobstructed views of the city, a variety of dining destinations and a sensory LUX* ME Spa. 

“As the CEO of The Lux Collective, I am delighted to lead the Group on another exciting phase of global expansion and strategic growth. The Lux Collective is a dynamic and pioneering home-grown Mauritian brand which puts people, exceptional service and extraordinary experiences first. The latest projects for LUX* and SALT will provide gateways to fascinating and emerging travel destinations such as Anji, Mababe, Phu Quoc and Sharjah, enabling travellers to delve authentically into the unique identity of each region.

We are thrilled to announce LUX* brand’s first opening in Botswana and look forward to putting LUX* Xinii Mababe on the map as an ultra-luxury safari and wellness destination. Designed with sustainability in mind and expected to open in Q1 2027, this futuristic project will draw in travellers from all over the world to this alluring location. We believe luxury and environmental stewardship must coexist for every resort we open and focus is on creating positive impact while delivering luxurious hospitality and meaningful experiences with a sense of place,” comments Olivier Chavy, Chief Executive Officer of The Lux Collective.

The Lux Collective’s global openings in 2025 and beyond mark a new exciting chapter in the luxury hospitality space, building upon its renowned brands’ goals to provide the modern travellers with authentic experiences in awe-inspiring destinations.

For hi-res photos, please click here.

BEIJING, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Lijiang City, located in southwest China’s Yunnan Province, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes. Over the years, it has emerged as a sought-after destination for sojourn tourism, offering tourists an opportunity to deeply engage with local life and traditions.

Thanks to the local government’s rural revitalization initiative, Puji Village, a traditional ethnic settlement in Lijiang famous for its charming stone streets, picturesque courtyards, and unique cafes, has developed homestays, agritourism, and stargazing tours, drawing new residents from cities like Shanghai, Beijing, and beyond.

These “new villagers” actively engage in local activities, from farming to cultural practices like the Dongba blessing and Naxi music performances. In addition, Puji Village regularly hosts unique festivals, offering “new villagers” a chance to celebrate with local residents and experience the joy of the festivities.

For those seeking artistic inspiration, the Sunshine 100 Snow Mountain Art Village provides an ideal retreat. With over 10,000 square meters of public cultural space, the art village provides artists with a vast platform to nurture creativity and foster collaboration.

By blending stunning natural landscapes with profound cultural traditions, Lijiang has firmly established itself as an ideal destination for sojourn tourism, offering visitors a harmonious balance of relaxation and cultural enrichment.

Original link: https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/344015.html

HONG KONG, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — On January 16, 2025, WeBank Technology Services (“the Company”) marked a key milestone in its global expansion with its inaugural ceremony in Hong Kong. The event was attended by senior representatives from WeBank and WeBank Technology Services, government officials from Shenzhen and Hong Kong, and international partners. During the ceremony, WeBank Technology Services signed several partnerships, underscoring its technological prowess and expanding global presence.

Among the agreements signed were partnerships with Mega Corp from Indonesia, SCBX from Thailand, Hong Leong Bank from Malaysia, and Fusion Bank from Hong Kong SAR. These agreements, focused on digital banking infrastructure and digital transformation, represent a key step in WeBank Technology Services’ international collaboration efforts and highlight its technical strengths and global influence, offering innovative solutions to clients worldwide.

The launch of WeBank Technology Services is a significant part of WeBank’s strategy to seize global opportunities in digital development. From its Openhive-based core banking system to multiple international recognitions, WeBank has become a leader in the financial technology sector. This solid foundation positions WeBank Technology Services to serve partners worldwide from Hong Kong. The Company’s global expansion enhances WeBank’s leadership in financial technology.

“WeBank Technology Services, supported by Hong Kong’s open business environment, aims to become a hub for technology services delivery, innovation, and sales while remaining committed to advancing the development of the Greater Bay Area,” said Li Nanqing, President of WeBank and Chairman of WeBank Technology Services. “We are also collaborating with local financial partners by offering reliable digital solutions, which supports Chinese companies aiming for international markets and upgrading services and technology.”

As a subsidiary of Shenzhen-based WeBank, WeBank Technology Services is positioned in Hong Kong as the Company’s technology headquarters. This strategic location fosters financial collaboration between Shenzhen and Hong Kong, facilitating financial development and high-quality connectivity in the Greater Bay Area.

A Strong Commitment to Cross-Boundary Collaboration

WeBank Technology Services is already playing a key role in cross-boundary collaborations, contributing to projects like the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Cross-Boundary Data Validation Platform. This platform enables secure, efficient digital solutions for sectors such as finance, education, and healthcare, driving digital transformation across the Greater Bay Area.

For example, the Company worked with a local university to enhance information exchange and compliance verification in education, improving the efficiency of academic cooperation. Additionally, WeBank Technology Services contributed blockchain technology to the Hong Kong Monetary Authority’s Ensemble project, driving innovation in Hong Kong’s tokenized markets.

The Company has also demonstrated its technological capabilities through strategic partnerships with local financial institutions in Hong Kong. One example is its collaboration with Fusion Bank to integrate and upgrade the latter’s core banking systems across five key business areas, including retail deposits, retail loans, corporate deposits, corporate loans and foreign exchange services, leveraging its proprietary Openhive digital banking technology. This significantly reduced Fusion Bank’s IT operating costs while enhancing its digital service capabilities, establishing a benchmark for fintech collaboration in Hong Kong.

Expanding into Global Markets with Strategic Partnerships

With expertise in digital finance, infrastructure solutions, and AI-native technology, WeBank Technology Services is now setting its sights on expanding its fintech innovation globally.

From its base in Hong Kong, WeBank Technology Services has rapidly built an expanding network of international partners, with over 20 enterprises and institutions across regions such as Southeast Asia, Saudi Arabia, and Hong Kong. Notably, the Company has leveraged its proprietary technologies to accelerate digital transformation in Southeast Asia.

In Indonesia, WeBank Technology Services developed a next-generation core banking system for Allo Bank, enhancing its operational flexibility and resilience. By incorporating AI, big data, and cloud computing, the collaboration optimized Allo Bank’s digital services, improving efficiency and reducing costs, while also broadening financial coverage.

Supporting the Overseas Expansion of Chinese Enterprises

In addition to collaborating with international businesses and institutions, WeBank Technology Services also seeks to support the overseas development of Chinese companies. WeBank Technology Services’ proprietary technology systems provide the flexibility and efficiency necessary for industries to thrive in the digital era. The relevant solutions are especially critical as global competition intensifies and economies recover, benefiting industries and businesses around the world.

For instance, as Chinese companies expand into global markets, they often encounter challenges in accessing reliable and efficient local financial services. By partnering with WeBank Technology Services, which offers robust technological capabilities and digital solutions, local financial institutions can better meet the needs of Chinese enterprises operating abroad. This collaboration will further help local institutions address challenges in supply chain finance for enterprises engaged with Chinese companies.

Moving Forward

WeBank Technology Services strives to make Hong Kong a global gateway for its digital infrastructure and international expansion. The Company will continue to play a pivotal role in the development of the Greater Bay Area, driving regional economic growth, and will also work to expand its global reach, forging new partnerships with financial institutions worldwide to provide premium digital services to clients globally.

Leveraging its expertise in digital finance, AI, big data, and blockchain, WeBank Technology Services is committed to leading the digital transformation of the global financial system, delivering safer, smarter, and more efficient services, and fueling the growth of the global digital economy.

About WeBank Technology Services

Launched in Hong Kong in June 2024, WeBank Technology Services sets out to leverage WeBank’s cutting-edge fintech capabilities and digital finance best practice to deliver a variety of superior digital finance and digital infrastructure solutions to digital banks, financial institutions, government agencies, and industry partners worldwide.

About WeBank

Launched in 2014, WeBank Co., Ltd. (“WeBank”) is the first digital bank in China. WeBank provides convenient financial services to micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) and the public, and continuously improves the quality of services in response to customers’ specific needs. WeBank ranked No. 1 in The Asian Banker’s Global Top 100 Digital Banks in 2022 and 2023. By June 2024, WeBank has served over 400 million retail customers and 5 million MSMEs.

WeBank focuses on innovation and technology. WeBank has maintained its proportion of technical personnel above 50% since its establishment, while its research and development expenses have accounted for around 10% of its revenue. WeBank is now at the top of the industry in core technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, cloud computing and big data. WeBank leads the industry in core technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, cloud computing, and big data.

SHANGHAI, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — This month, CHINT, a global leader in smart energy, unveiled its 2030 sustainable development strategy, making a milestone in its commitment to a greener future. The launch was witnessed by thousands of supply chain partners and led by five Chief Sustainability Officers (CSOs) from CHINT‘s key subsidiaries.

At the heart of the strategy lies CHINT’s newly introduced “EMPOWER” Sustainable Development Model, which guides eight key actions:

1. Addressing Climate Change
2. Clean Technology Opportunities
3. Promoting Circular Economy
4. Sustainable Product Management
5. Human Capital Development
6. Sustainable Supply Chain Management
7. Corporate Governance
8. Business Ethics

CHINT has also articulated its ESG vision, “Committed to becoming a global leader in smart and green energy solutions,” and its ESG mission, “Leading the green transformation of energy, making electric power safer, greener, more convenient and efficient.” By fostering cross-departmental collaboration and engaging external partners, CHINT is ensuring the effective execution of its ESG initiatives, strengthening its long-term value, and amplifying its positive social impact.

“Facing with the pressing challenges of climate change, sustainable development is no longer a choice but an imperative,” Nan Cunhui said, Chairman of CHINT Group. “We are committed to becoming an ‘explorer, advocate and practitioner’ of green and low-carbon development, and fully integrating sustainable development into its business, collaborating with global partners to embed ESG into corporate strategies, foster a sustainable development ecosystem, drive energy transformation, and collectively turn aspirations for a sustainable future into reality.

As a leading enterprise with in-depth layout in the global electric power and new energy market, CHINT has embedded ESG into its corporate strategy and operations. The company continues to pioneer ESG best practices, playing a key role in driving sustainable industry transformation and setting a benchmark for responsible business leadership.

KHORGOS, Kazakhstan, Jan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — January 17, last Friday, marked the groundbreaking of Envision Energy’s renewable energy plant in Kazakhstan, a key project for the company’s global presence in clean energy technology. This milestone project will produce wind turbines and energy storage systems, following the agreement signed last month with Kazakhstan Utility Systems LLP, one of the country’s leading energy companies. The event was attended and witnessed by Mr. Sungat Yesimkhanov, Vice Minister of Energy of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr. Olzhas Saparbekov, Vice Minister of Industry and Construction of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Mr. Asset Kanagatov, Deputy Governor of Zhetysu Region, Ms. Lu Anqi, Counselor of the Consulate General of China in Almaty, Mr. Dinmukhamet Idrisov, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Kazakhstan Utility Systems LLP and Mr. Kane Xu, Envision Energy’s Senior Vice President and President of International Product Lines.

As Kazakhstan strives to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060, this facility represents a significant step toward realizing its renewable energy ambitions. With a total investment of $40 million, the plant will have an annual production capacity of 2 GW of wind turbines—equivalent to 250 units per year—and 1 GWh of energy storage systems, delivering 100 units annually. 60% of the output will serve Kazakhstan’s domestic market, while the remaining 40% will be exported to Central Asia and the Caucasus. The facility is expected to create over 3,000 jobs, including 300 core production roles, and is scheduled to begin operations in the third quarter of 2026.

Envision Energy will leverage its innovative renewable energy system to provide Kazakhstan with cutting-edge technical support throughout the project lifecycle, offering services in design, production, and operation of renewable energy plants and storage systems. This initiative will maximize the synergy of wind and storage integration, effectively addressing Kazakhstan’s market demands, reducing transportation costs, and minimizing environmental impacts across the supply chain. Additionally, the facility will include a service and technical support center to foster local talent and enhance professional development in Kazakhstan.

Kane Xu, Envision Energy Senior Vice President and President of International Product Lines, highlighted the company’s commitment to the collaboration: “We are delighted to partner with Kazakhstan Utility Systems LLP on this innovative initiative. By leveraging our cutting-edge industry technologies, Envision will support Kazakhstan in reducing carbon emissions, advancing clean energy, and attracting international investments and technologies. This initiative will significantly accelerate Kazakhstan’s transition to a sustainable energy future, fostering economic growth, and driving innovation.”

“Collaboration with Envision Energy opens unique opportunities for Kazakhstan in developing renewable energy and localizing high-tech production. This is not only a step toward energy independence but also a catalyst for improving local specialists’ qualifications and strengthening our role in the global green transformation.” noted Dinmukhamet Idrisov, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Kazakhstan Utility Systems LLP.

The partnership will also enhance the skills of local professionals through the transfer of advanced knowledge and technology, as well as the implementation of professional training programs. The companies also plan to conduct research with local universities to optimize products for Kazakhstan’s conditions.

–End –

About Envision Energy :

Envision Energy is a world-leading green technology company committed to becoming a net zero technology partner for global enterprises, governments, and institutions. With a focus on three core business areas: smart wind turbines, energy storage, and green hydrogen solutions, Envision Energy delivers integrated solutions that drive the energy transition. It also manages Envision-Hongshan Carbon-Neutral Fund and owns Envision Racing Formula E team, which conquered the Formula E teams’ championship in 2023.

With its contributions to the global green energy transition, Envision Energy is featured as a “Green Giant” in 2024 TIME 100 Most Influential Companies list. The company has been included in Fortune’s 2024 Change the World list for a second time as it continues to lead the industry in innovating new large-scale net-zero industrial park and full-stack green hydrogen technologies.  Additionally, Envision Energy earned a spot on Forbes China’s Best Employers list in both 2022 and 2024, for its outstanding leadership as an employer. Envision Energy has also received several accolades for its sustainability performance, including the EcoVadis Gold Medal and the CDP “A-List”.

Envision Energy has been leveraging its global network of R&D and engineering centers across China, the US, the UK, France, Germany, Denmark, etc. to lead global green technology development. Envision Energy joined the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) in 2021 and is committed to achieving the “Business Ambition for 1.5°C”. It has achieved carbon neutrality in its global operations by the end of 2022 and has set the goal of reaching net zero emissions by 2040.

About Kazakhstan Utility Systems LLP :

Kazakhstan Utility Systems LLP is one of the largest energy market companies in Kazakhstan, part of the Ordabasy Group project consortium. The group’s enterprises form a production chain from electricity and heat generation to end-user delivery. Based on installed capacity, KKS ranks among the top four largest energy companies in the country.

Kai Tak Sports Park Hosts Its First International Event Highlighting the Spirit of Para Sports

HONG KONGJan. 20, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The 2025 IBF Para Bowling World Championships kicked off today at noon with an opening ceremony at the new Top Bowl Tenpin Bowling Centre in Kai Tak Sports Park. This event, along with the IBF World Cup, marks the first two international events hosted at the Park. Notably, the IBF Para Bowling World Championships is also the first “M Mark” para sports event organized by the Hong Kong, China Tenpin Bowling Congress. This highlights Hong Kong’s appeal and capabilities as Asia’s premier sports event hub. With its comprehensive barrier-free facilities, the Top Bowl Tenpin Bowling Centre at Kai Tak Sports Park serves as the perfect venue for hosting its inaugural para sports event.

The event welcomes competitors from 18 countries and regions worldwide, including Australia, Finland, Malaysia, the United States, and the host, Hong Kong, China. Approximately 190 athletes and 120 team members are participating in this grand occasion. During the opening ceremony, Ms. Vivien Lau, SBS, JP., Chairman of the Hong Kong, China Tenpin Bowling Congress (HKTBC), joined guests for a traditional lion dance performance and an eye-dotting ceremony. His Excellency Sheikh Talal, President of the International Bowling Federation, then officially declared the championship open. The ceremony concluded with an oath-taking segment for athletes and team members, and the lion dancers gracefully led the participants out of the venue, bringing the ceremony to a perfect close.

As the first international event hosted since the opening of Kai Tak Sports Park, this championship is being held at the Top Bowl Tenpin Bowling Centre, which boasts 40 international standard lanes, providing a professional competition environment for the world’s top bowlers. Sheikh Talal Mohammed Al-Sabah stated, “I am confident that this championship will be held successfully, as the HKTBC has provided an accessible venue for our athletes. This ensures that they can compete in a friendly and comfortable environment. In addition to experiencing the warm hospitality and high efficiency of the event officials and venue staff, they will also feel at home. I look forward to seeing all athletes perform at their best and to an enjoyable and memorable competition.”

The IBF Para Bowling World Championships has been designated as an “M Mark” by the Major Sports Events Committee, making it the first “M Mark” para sports event hosted by the Hong Kong Tenpin Bowling Congress. In her speech, Ms. Vivien L expressed, ” This competition features many ‘firsts.’ We are honored to have been awarded the M Mark for this championship by the Major Sports Events Committee under the Sports Commission of the Hong Kong government. This marks the first time that the M Mark has been granted to a world championship for persons with disabilities.”

Competitors in this championship will vie for awards in seven different categories. TPB1, TPB2, and TPB3 are for athletes with varying degrees of visual impairment. TPB4 is divided into National Team (Virtus) and Non-National Team (Special Olympics) for athletes with intellectual disabilities. For athletes with physical disabilities, the categories are TPB8 for wheelchair bowling athletes, TPB9 for bowling athletes without a lower limb, and TPB10 for bowling athletes without an upper limb. The Hong Kong, China para bowling team is fielding 22 athletes, many of whom have achieved remarkable results in international competitions, including Cheung Hoi Tung in the TPB3 category and Chow Pui Kin in the TPB10 category. The Hong Kong, China intellectual disabilities bowling team consists of 4 men and 4 women, with 3 athletes participating in an international competition for the first time. Following the successful opening ceremony, the championship will feature a series of intense competitions from 17 to 24 January. This event is not just a sports feast, but also a stage to showcase Hong Kong’s passion for sports and the spirit of para sports.