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Toasting the world in Laoshan: A summer of beer, culture, and celebration

QINGDAO, China, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A news report from China Daily:

Locals and tourists flock to the "Beer Exchange", a newly launched special event at the Laoshan venue of the 35th Qingdao International Beer Festival in Shandong province on July 22. Customers serve themselves with cups, scan QR codes to purchase beers, while a dynamic system adjusts beer prices in real time, just like that of a stock exchange. (Photo by ZHANG JINGANG /FOR CHINA DAILY)
Locals and tourists flock to the “Beer Exchange”, a newly launched special event at the Laoshan venue of the 35th Qingdao International Beer Festival in Shandong province on July 22. Customers serve themselves with cups, scan QR codes to purchase beers, while a dynamic system adjusts beer prices in real time, just like that of a stock exchange. (Photo by ZHANG JINGANG /FOR CHINA DAILY)

The Laoshan venue of the ongoing 35th Qingdao International Beer Festival, running through August 16, invites guests from around the world to experience a wonderful summer celebration of global beer, food, culture, and fun in Laoshan district of the coastal city of Qingdao, Shandong province.

This year, the Laoshan venue features a unique “dual-style” layout—known as Yicheng Shuangjing—offering both Chinese and European-themed experiences respectively at its central and southern part of the Century Square Beer City. Visitors can explore creative activities, cultural performances, specialty food streets, and exhibitions of cultural and creative products.

Beer lovers are treated to 93 types of brews from 18 brands across 11 countries. The venue has launched themed days for international guests, special discount packages, and tailored travel routes. To ensure a smooth and inclusive experience, multilingual signage and interpretation services are available in Chinese, English, Japanese, and Korean. Printed guides, including the Laoshan District Cultural Tourism Guide and Top 10 Laoshan Travel Routes, are also available in multiple languages.

One highlight is the creative “Trendy Play” zone, an interactive area featuring VR experiences, a national-level jump rope challenge, traditional Chinese performance arts, and roaming NPCs (non-player characters) for added immersion. The venue also integrates business-focused elements, offering private reception spaces and organizing themed days around talent, finance, and technology, alongside exclusive events for companies and media, creating a platform for both entertainment and networking.

Visitors can enjoy an authentic cultural experience in the “Elegant Chinese Style” zone at the central part of the Laoshan venue, which includes an ancient-style tavern, a Laoshan-themed cultural store, and a beer festival exhibition. Meanwhile, the venue’s southern part features the “Fashionable European Charm” zone, presenting pop-up street performances and European-style shows for a fully immersive experience.

Food lovers can indulge in the “Craving Street, Tipsy Alley” area, a bustling street market featuring both Chinese delicacies and European cuisine. Local specialties and international bites are all part of the mix. The venue also debuts Laoshan’s first Beer Exchange, where visitors can enjoy 360-degree self-serve beer taps—creating a new social media hotspot.

Seven beer gardens, including the Tsingtao 1903 Bar and the Draft Beer Garden, add to the lively atmosphere. More than 30 events, from exclusive coupons to joint promotions with local beer-themed homestays, bring a down-to-earth flavor to the beer fest full of local charm.

As the 35th Qingdao International Beer Festival hits full swing, the Laoshan venue stands out for its mix of mountain and sea beauty, urban innovation, and global joy. This summer, let’s gather in Qingdao, raise our glasses in Laoshan district, and toast to a world united by beer.

Alphamab Oncology Announces Anti-HER2 Biparatopic ADC JSKN003 Obtained Orphan Drug Designation from the U.S. FDA for the Treatment of GC/GEJ

SUZHOU, China, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Alphamab Oncology (stock code: 9966.HK) announced that anti-HER2 biparatopic antibody-drug conjugate (ADC) JSKN003 has been granted Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of gastric cancer and gastroesophageal junction cancer (GC/GEJ).

GC/GEJ is the fifth most common cancer and the fifth leading cause of cancer death worldwide. According to the 2022 Global Cancer Statistics report released by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), a subsidiary of the World Health Organization, there are approximately 960,000 new cases diagnosed and 660,000 deaths worldwide annually. In the U.S., the SEER database model predicts that there will be 26,890 new cases and 10,880 new deaths of GC/GEJ in 2024, with a five-year overall survival rate of less than 40%. Fluoropyrimidine and platinum-based regimens are commonly used as first-line treatments. Available second-line or later-line treatment options include paclitaxel plus ramucirumab, paclitaxel, docetaxel or irinotecan monotherapy, and best supportive care, with objective response rates of approximately 15-25%. The median overall survival is approximately 8-9 months for second-line treatment and 4-6 months for later lines.

JSKN003 is an anti-HER2 biparatopic ADC developed inhouse with Alphamab’s proprietary glycan-specific conjugation platform. The antibody molecule KN026 is site-specifically modified via enzyme catalytic reaction and click chemistry to achieve a drug-to-antibody ratio (DAR) of approximately 4. It can bind HER2 on the surface of tumor cells, and release topoisomerase I inhibitors (TOPIi) through cellular endocytosis, thereby exert anti-tumor effects. Compared with its ADC counterparts, JSKN003 demonstrated better serum stability and stronger bystander effect, which effectively expands the therapeutic window. Research results from the Phase I clinical study JSKN003-101 (NCT05494918) conducted in Australia and the Phase I/II clinical study JSKN003-102 (NCT05744427) in China have demonstrated favorable tolerability and safety profile, with promising efficacy of JSKN003 in heavily pretreated patients with advanced solid tumors, especially in patients with high HER2-expressing gastrointestinal tumors. Detailed data were presented at the 2024 European Society for Medical Oncology (ESMO) Congress for the first time and subsequently updated at the 2025 Annual Meeting of American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) in June 2025.

The “Orphan Drug Designation”, originated from the Orphan Drug Act (ODA), is a U.S. FDA initiative aimed at encouraging the development of innovative drugs for the treatment of diseases affecting fewer than 200,000 people in the U.S. The designation of JSKN003 will be beneficial to obtain relevant policy supports for subsequent research and development, registration, and commercialization in the U.S., including funding for research and development costs, tax credits for clinical trial expenditures, waiver of prescription drug user fee, accelerated review and approval processes, and, upon approval, the potential for seven years of market exclusivity in the U.S.

About JSKN003

JSKN003 is a bispecific ADC developed based on KN026 using Alphamab’s proprietary glycan-specific conjugation platform. JSKN003 can bind HER2 on the surface of tumor cells and release topoisomerase I inhibitors (TOPIi) through cellular endocytosis, thereby exerting anti-tumor effects. Compared with its ADC counterparts, JSKN003 demonstrated better serum stability and stronger bystander effect, which effectively expands the therapeutic window.

Results of multiple clinical studies at various stages of JSKN003 in China and Australia have demonstrated favorable safety profile, with promising efficacy of JSKN003 in heavily pretreated patients with advanced solid tumors, especially in patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (PROC), HER2-expressing breast cancer (BC), or high HER2-expressing solid tumors. JSKN003 was granted breakthrough therapy designation by CDE. The designation is for the treatment of platinum-resistant recurrent epithelial ovarian cancer, primary peritoneal cancer, or fallopian tube cancer. Three Phase III clinical studies of JSKN003 for the treatment of HER2-low expressing BC, PROC, and HER2-positive BC as well as multiple exploratory Phase II clinical studies are currently undergoing smoothly.

In September 2024, the Company entered a licensing agreement with JMT-Bio Technology Co., Ltd. (“JMT-Bio”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of CSPC Pharmaceutical Group Co., Ltd. (“CSPC”) (stock code: 1093.HK), pursuant to which, JMT-Bio was granted the exclusive license and sublicense rights to develop, sell, offer for sale and commercialize JSKN003, for the treatment of tumor-related indications (the “Field”) in mainland China (excluding Hong Kong, Macau or Taiwan) (the “Territory”) and become the sole marketing authorization holder for JSKN003 for the Field in the Territory. Alphamab retains the sole right to supply JSKN003.

About Alphamab Oncology

Alphamab Oncology is an innovative biopharmaceutical company focusing on oncology therapeutics. On December 12, 2019, the Company was successfully listed on the Main Board of the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, trading under the stock code 9966.

By leveraging its proprietary core technology platforms including single-domain antibodies, bispecific antibodies, glycan-specific conjugation, linker-payload, dual-payload antibody conjugation, and subcutaneous high concentration formulation for biologics, the Company has established a product portfolio with differentiated innovation and global competitiveness, covering cutting-edge areas such as antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), bispecific antibodies, and single-domain antibodies.

The Company has one product approved for marketing (Envafolimab, the world’s first subcutaneously injectable PD-(L)1 inhibitor), which has made a significant breakthrough in the convenience and accessibility of cancer treatment. Additionally, the Company has multiple bispecific antibodies and bispecific ADCs in clinical stage, while rapidly advancing the preclinical pipeline prioritizing bispecific ADCs and dual-payload ADCs. Multiple strategic collaborations based on innovative products or technology platforms have been established with partners such as CSPC, ArriVent, and Glenmark.

Our overarching mission is to make cancer manageable and curable by addressing unmet clinical needs in oncology. Alphamab Oncology is continuously dedicated to the development of effective, safe, and globally competitive anti-tumor drugs, delivering China-innovated cancer therapies to benefit patients worldwide.

The New Mazda CX-60 Sport and Pro Unveiled at GIIAS 2025

“The Noble Toughness” in Two Distinct Characters

TANGERANG, Indonesia, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — PT Eurokars Motor Indonesia (EMI), the Sole Agent and authorized distributor of Mazda vehicles in Indonesia, is set to reaffirm its presence in the premium vehicle market with the launch of The New Mazda CX-60 Sport and Pro, the two latest editions of the Mazda CX-60. The launch is one of the main highlights at the Gaikindo Indonesia International Auto Show (GIIAS) 2025, currently taking place at ICE BSD City, Tangerang.

Ricky Thio, Chief Operating Officer of PT Eurokars Motor Indonesia, with Ade Rai, public figure and fitness practitioner – at the launch ceremony of The New Mazda CX-60 Sport & Pro at GIIAS 2025
Ricky Thio, Chief Operating Officer of PT Eurokars Motor Indonesia, with Ade Rai, public figure and fitness practitioner – at the launch ceremony of The New Mazda CX-60 Sport & Pro at GIIAS 2025

Since its debut in Indonesia in 2023, the Mazda CX-60 has proven itself to be one of Mazda’s flagship SUV. Carrying a bold and elegant design (“The Noble Toughness”), the Mazda CX-60 secured the top spot in Mazda’s Large SUV sales segment in 2024. Building on this momentum, Mazda now arrives in two new editions, Sport Edition and Pro Edition, designed to meet various mobility needs that suit different driving personalities.

Both new editions embody the Jinba-Ittai philosophy, creating harmony and unity between the driver and the vehicle. The New Mazda CX-60 Sport and Pro provide broader access for consumers seeking premium quality with more relevant options.

The main differences lie in the distinct characteristics of each edition. The New Mazda CX-60 Pro exudes a masculine character, ideal for those who enjoy challenges. This edition is equipped with the i-ACTIV All-Wheel Drive system, providing enhanced stability and optimal manoeuvrability, even at high speeds. Meanwhile, The New Mazda CX-60 Sport is designed for an active lifestyle, offering smart driving efficiency at more competitive price points, without compromising the signature Mazda driving experience.

“Retaining many of the standout features from the previous models (Kuro Edition and Elite Edition), The New Mazda CX-60 Sport and Pro are introduced to meet the needs of consumers who want the Mazda CX-60 at a more competitive price point,” said Ricky Thio, CEO of PT Eurokars Motor Indonesia.

Ricky adds, “These two latest editions are designed with a human-centric approach, which lies at the heart of every Mazda innovation, crafted to adapt to the needs and lifestyles of today’s drivers. The New Mazda CX-60 Sport and Pro are the true embodiment of Mass Craftsmanship, showcasing not only beautiful design and luxury, but also reflect meticulous attention to detail, comfort, and driving experience.

Enhanced Driving Performance

With dimensions of 4,740 x 1,890 mm, The New Mazda CX-60 Sport and Pro showcase a bold and solid stance. Both the Sport Edition and Pro Edition are designed to meet the needs of efficient urban mobility yet still offering optimal comfort for daily activities.

Equipped with a SKYACTIV-G 2.5L Inline 4-cylinder engine, both editions deliver 188 HP and 250 Nm of torque. The 8-speed automatic transmission system, which operates without a torque converter, enables more direct and responsive gear shifts.

The SKYACTIV-G technology, with its high compression ratio, is designed to maximize both power and fuel efficiency. The SKYACTIV-DRIVE transmission ensures smooth power delivery with minimal energy loss. Reinforced by the lightweight yet strong SKYACTIV-Body & Chasis structure, as well as the i-Stop system that shuts off the engine during idle, the Mazda CX-60 strikes a balance between performance and efficiency.

Premium Cabin Experience

Entering the cabin of The New Mazda CX-60 Sport and Pro, a modern-minimalist ambience is immediately apparent. A Power Sliding Panoramic Sunroof and Power Lift Gate with Hands-free Function come as standard features in these latest editions. Furthermore, ventilated leather seats in the front provide added comfort, while titanium-colored accents enhance the modern character of the interior.

Equipped with a 12.3-inch media display, Wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, wireless charger, and a premium BOSE audio system with 12 speakers, the Mazda CX-60 cabin is designed to elevate the driving experience.

Additionally, The New Mazda CX-60 Pro offers extra comfort through features such as Auto Dimming Outer Mirrors, which reduce glare from trailing vehicles, and Front Passenger Power Lumbar Support to enhance back support for front-seat passengers.

Bold Exterior

The New Mazda CX-60 Sport and Pro feature a bold and distinctive design highlighted by the use of a Vertical Grille Pattern, Chrome Signature Wing, and Black Matte on the Side Signature, Window Line, and Cladding. The 18-inch metallic wheels on The New Mazda CX-60 Sport and 20-inch wheels on The New Mazda CX-60 Pro further elevate the vehicles’ bold and elegant presence in perfect balance.

Comprehensive Safety Features

More than just performance and design, The New Mazda CX-60 Sport and Pro are also built with great attention to safety. The i-Activsense active safety technology offers comprehensive protection, creating a sense of security and confidence behind the wheel.

The Mazda Radar Cruise Control (MRCC) feature helps drivers maintain a safe distance automatically from vehicles ahead, which is ideal for both long-distance trips and heavy traffic. To assist drivers in staying aware of their surroundings, the 360° View Monitor with see-through view technology provides a complete perspective around the vehicle, making manoeuvres in tight areas easier.

Mazda also includes Smart Brake Support at both the front and rear, which proactively helps prevent collisions or reduce impact by automatically applying brakes when potential danger is detected.

Lighting is made more intelligent with Adaptive LED Headlights, which adjust direction and brightness based on road conditions and speed. Meanwhile, Lane-keep Assist and Blind Spot Monitoring help keep the driver on track and protected from vehicles approaching from blind spots or the side.

Specifically for The New Mazda CX-60 Pro Edition, Mazda adds the Driver Monitoring System, which closely observes the driver’s level of alertness. The system detects signs of fatigue or distraction and issues an early warning, delivering enhanced peace of mind on every journey. Furthermore, the Driver Personalization System allows automatic adjustment of the seat position, mirrors, and head-up display based on the driver’s physical profile.

Price and Availability

The New Mazda CX-60 Sport comes at IDR 699,000,000 (OTR Jakarta), and The New Mazda CX-60 Pro is available for IDR 818.800.000 (OTR Jakarta). Both editions will be rolled out progressively through Mazda’s official dealership network across Indonesia.

The New Mazda CX-60 Sport

(Rear Wheel Drive)

The New Mazda CX-60 Pro

(i-ACTIV All Wheel Drive)

OTR Jakarta Price

**Only applies during GIIAS 2025.

IDR 699.000.000, –**

IDR 818.800.000, –

Color Options

*An additional fee of IDR 4.000.000,- applies for premium color choices.

1.  Soul Red Crystal Metallic (Premium Colour)*

2.  Rhodium White Metallic (Premium Colour)*

3.  Machine Grey Metallic (Premium Colour)*

4.  Zircon Sand Metallic

1.  Sonic Silver Metallic

2.  Jet Black Mica

Experience at GIIAS 2025 and Ade Rai’s Presence

During the launch ceremony of the New Mazda CX-60 Sport and Pro at GIIAS 2025, Mazda Indonesia welcomed renowned public figure and fitness practitioner Ade Rai, who is also a loyal user of Mazda. Together with Ricky Thio, Chief Operating Officer of PT Eurokars Motor Indonesia, Ade Rai took part in the symbolic handover of the first unit of the New Mazda CX-60 Sport.

According to Ade Rai, Mazda has become a part of his personal identity, reflecting how he wants to be perceived by the public, “I have been using Mazda for a long time, from the Mazda6 Sedan, Mazda MX-5, and now the Mazda CX-60 Sport. It is very likely I will own more Mazda cars in the future. For me, Mazda is a reflection of myself, part of who I am. I feel connected to the values Mazda stands for. Mazda always prioritizes functionality and the human-centered driving experience. It is not just about making cars that look cool or flashy. I believe the same applies to life. As a public figure, I want to represent something meaningful, useful, and impactful. Not just about outer appearance.”

Inside the Mazda booth at GIIAS 2025, Mazda is showcasing the New Mazda CX-60 Sport in Zircon Sand Metallic and The New Mazda CX-60 Pro in Sonic Silver Metallic.

For potential customers seeking a bolder and sportier look for the Mazda CX-60, the Kuro Kit Upgrade is also available. Exclusively at GIIAS 2025, Mazda is offering a special price and competitive installment program for Kuro Kit Upgrade purchases, with a 0% installment plan over 6 months. This program is valid only during GIIAS 2025 and can be accessed through the Garasi.id application or website. **

As part of its commitment to delivering after-sales service, Mazda is offering the 5-Year MyMazda Warranty and 3-Year MyMazda Service with every Mazda vehicle purchase. This program includes a 5-year or 150,000 km vehicle warranty (whichever comes first), complemented by a 3-year or 60,000 km (whichever comes first), covering both parts and labor. **

**Terms and conditions apply.

For more information about The New Mazda CX-60 Sport and Pro, please visit the Mazda booth at Hall 7C, ICE BSD City during GIIAS 2025, or visit the official Mazda Indonesia website at www.mazda.co.id.

About Mazda Indonesia

At Mazda, we believe in the emotional bond between driver and vehicle, as if the car has a soul of its own. This philosophy is embodied in our KODO Design, Soul of Motion. Inspired by the graceful energy of a cheetah in full sprint, KODO captures the purest expression of motion, transforming it into captivating automotive design.

KODO finds its roots in timeless Japanese aesthetics. Japanese craftsmanship has always celebrated the beauty of simplicity, a form of elegance that radiates dignity and sensuality. Mazda interprets these values through “RIN” (dignified control) and “EN” (captivating sensuality), two defining traits of Japanese elegance. Together, they shape the distinctive premium character of our vehicles, seen in models like the Mazda2 Hatchback, Mazda6, Mazda CX-5, and Mazda Biante. Each is a testament to our commitment to design that moves not only the body, but also the feelings.

As the Sole Agent and Exclusive Distributor of Mazda vehicles in Indonesia, PT Eurokars Motor Indonesia (PT EMI), part of the Eurokars Group, is committed to delivering the Mazda driving experience to fans across the country since 2017. This transition from PT Mazda Motor Indonesia marked a new era for Mazda enthusiasts in Indonesia.

Every Mazda Eurokars showroom is equipped with a 3S Service Centre, offering Sales, Service, and Spare Parts. These facilities are supported by a dedicated team of professionals, including a customer service team, sales specialists, and certified technicians who have been recognized as winners in the ‘Best Mazda Technician’ category. With their dedication and proven quality, our team ensures the best ownership experience that reflects Mazda’s global commitment to excellence.

For further questions, please contact:

Marketing & Communications Department, PT Eurokars Motor Indonesia

Thai Army Accuses Cambodia of Breaking Truce

Thai Army Accuses Cambodia of Breaking Truce
Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim (C), Cambodia's Prime Minister Hun Manet (L) and Thailand's acting Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai (R) pose for photos as they shake hands following a press conference after talks on a possible ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia in Putrajaya on July 28, 2025. Thailand and Cambodia began discussing a ceasefire in their festering border dispute on July 28, as the deadly skirmish dragged into a fifth day. (Photo by MOHD RASFAN / POOL / AFP)

By Chayanit Itthipongmaetee with Suy SE in Samraong/AFP – Thailand’s army accused Cambodia Tuesday of violating an hours-old truce, saying clashes continued despite a deal meant to end the bloody fighting that has engulfed their jungle-clad frontier.

WeBank Technology Services Showcases Shenzhen-Hong Kong Cross-Boundary Data Validation Platform at Data Summit 2025

HONG KONG, July 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) hosted its 2025 Data Summit on Monday, drawing more than 800 representatives from the city’s various sectors. HKMA Chief Executive Eddie Yue delivered a keynote address, emphasizing the city’s commitment to financial infrastructure innovation.

Huiya Yao, Head of Fintech Innovation at WeBank, introduced DVP to HKMA Chief Executive Eddie Yue
Huiya Yao, Head of Fintech Innovation at WeBank, introduced DVP to HKMA Chief Executive Eddie Yue

During the Data Summit, the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Cross-Boundary Data Validation Platform (DVP), co-operated by WeBank Technology Services, was also introduced as the first cross-boundary data verification service connected to the HKMA’ s Commercial Data Interchange (CDI). CDl, a key pillar of the HKMA’s “Fintech 2025” strategy, aims at enhancing financial inclusion through secure and efficient data sharing.

Cross-boundary data bridge built on blockchain principles

Developed under the guidance of the HKMA, Shenzhen Municipal Cyberspace Administration, the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of Shenzhen Municipal People’s Government, Shenzhen Municipal Financial Regulatory Bureau, the Authority of Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone of Shenzhen, the Shenzhen Branch of the People’s Bank of China, and the Shenzhen Regulatory Bureau of National Financial Regulatory Administration, the DVP positions itself as a next-generation cross-boundary data infrastructure. The platform enables trusted validation of personal and corporate data through hash-based verification — without transferring nor storing any original data files. Powered by immutability and traceability features of blockchain technology, the platform supports data portability in compliance with regulatory requirements from both jurisdictions.

The DVP collaborates with authoritative data providers in the Chinese Mainland across various sectors like finance and public services, allowing for verification of documents such as personal and corporate credit reports, bank statements, and enterprise credit information among others. The service is designed to meet growing demands for cross-boundary financial services by residents and enterprises operating between Shenzhen and Hong Kong.

CDI-DVP integration to help streamline access for Hong Kong banks

CDI, launched under the HKMA’s Fintech 2025 blueprint, serves as a foundational financial data infrastructure that lowers the cost and complexity of data exchange between banks and commercial data providers. With the integration of DVP, Hong Kong banks can now — via a compliant, secure and efficient channel — improve risk assessment and the overall user experience of cross-boundary financial services.

During the summit, Eddie Yue visited WeBank Technology Services’ exhibition booth, where Huiya Yao, Head of Fintech Innovation at WeBank, shared the latest developments of the DVP. To date, the DVP has already served more than 10 business entities and is being used in various scenarios including cross-boundary credit assessment and financing.

Early gains from DVP adoption

At a panel session focused on cross-boundary data validation, representatives from Fusion Bank and ICBC (Asia) shared early outcomes from leveraging the DVP.

Andy Li, Head of Corporate Banking at Fusion Bank, said: “Hong Kong serves as a pivotal gateway connecting the Mainland and international markets, and remains the preferred destination for Mainland enterprises going global. Fusion Bank has been committed to supporting Mainland SMEs in their overseas expansion and has approved over HKD100 million in loans for Hong Kong affiliates of GBA SMEs by leveraging the DVP for cross-boundary verification of credit information. Moving ahead, we will continue to utilize DVP to deliver more convenient financing solutions for Hong Kong affiliates of GBA enterprises, supporting the advancement of financial inclusion in the GBA.”

ICBC Asia’s Co-Head of Data Management Youping Song revealed plans to leverage the DVP as well to verify customers’ Central Bank Individual credit reports and other data types, to enhance credit status assessment work for newly arrived Hong Kong residents from the Chinese Mainland, supporting talent schemes such as the “Top Talent Pass Scheme(TTPS)” and “Quality Migrant Admission Scheme (QMAS)“.

Toward a Greater Bay Area data ecosystem

The DVP, officially launched in May 2024, is jointly operated by the China (Qianhai) Internet Exchange (CNIX), Shenzhen Credit Service Co. Ltd and WeBank Technology Services. WeBank provides the overall architecture design and technical support of the platform.

Looking ahead, Huiya Yao shared that the DVP aims to integrate more diverse data sources, deepening data connectivity across the Greater Bay Area.

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 practices to deliver a variety of superior digital finance and digital infrastructure solutions to digital banks, financial institutions, government agencies, and industry partners worldwide.

Agoda Reveals First-Half 2025 Travel Insights: China, Malaysia, and South Korea Remain Top Visitors to Thailand

BANGKOK, July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Digital travel platform Agoda reveals fresh insights into the Thai travel landscape for the first half of 2025. Based on booking data, China, Malaysia, and South Korea are once again the leading markets visiting Thailand, followed by Japan and Singapore.

Bangkok, Pattaya, and Phuket continue to top the list of most-visited cities among the five leading markets. Hat Yai also emerged as one of the most visited cities, particularly among Malaysian and Singaporean travelers. Hat Yai’s growing popularity is likely due to its reputation for affordability, having ranked as the cheapest destination in Thailand and among the top three in Asia for two consecutive years. These destinations offer a mix of urban adventure, coastal leisure, and rich cultural experiences that appeal to a broad spectrum of travelers.

Unexpectedly, the market visiting Thailand the most isn’t necessarily the one staying the longest. While China tops the list for visitor numbers, the longest average stays are led by South Korea, followed by Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, and then China.

Additionally, each market shows unique preferences for where visitors stay longer, with many choosing island escapes for extended visits, such as Ko Tao for its world-class diving, Ko Pha Ngan for its mix of laid-back beach life and well-known party scenes, and inland destinations like Pathum Thani for a quieter, more local experience near Bangkok.

Markets

Cities with the longest average length of stay

China

Ko Tao

Malaysia

Ko Pha ngan

South Korea

Pathum Thani

Japan

Ko Tao

Singapore

Ko Tao

Alongside Agoda’s data, official figures from Thailand’s Ministry of Tourism and Sports reveal that more than 16 million foreign tourists visited Thailand from January to June 2025, generating approximately 743.5 million baht in tourism revenue. With ongoing government initiatives such as the Amazing Thailand Grand Tourism and Sports Year 2025, streamlined travel procedures, and increased flight capacities, Thailand continues to assert itself as a leading destination in the region.

Meanwhile, for Thai travelers heading abroad, Tokyo, Osaka, Hong Kong, Taipei, and Seoul emerged as the leading destinations for the first half of 2025.

Akaporn Rodkong, Country Director at Agoda shared, “We’re honored to be the platform of choice for travelers from across Asia and proud to play a role in supporting tourism in Thailand. At Agoda, we’re committed to offering convenient and diverse accommodation options that help travelers explore both well-known destinations and hidden gems across the country, making their trips easier and more memorable.”

With over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda offers endless possibilities for micro-travelers. Agoda’s mobile app is the go-to platform for unbeatable deals for a quick getaway. Start planning your next micro-adventure at www.agoda.com

OPPO Launches AI Phone Reno14 Series and Upgraded AI-Powered Intelligent After-Sales Service System


SHENZHEN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 July 2025Following the recent global launch of the Reno14 Series—the latest OPPO AI phone featuring cutting-edge AI imaging capabilities and trend-setting design—OPPO introduced a major upgrade to its after-sales service system powered by its proprietary AndesGPT large language model. The new upgrade makes OPPO the first smartphone brand to fully integrate AI into its customer services and products, setting a new standard in the coverage, quality and user experience of AI-based services.

OPPO Launches AI Phone Reno14 Series and Upgraded AI-Powered Intelligent After-Sales Service System

Since 2021, OPPO has continued to invest in both the capabilities and capacity of AI-powered services, building a team of over 100 AI service professionals specializing in embedding AI into every stage of the customer service journey. “AI is not only a catalyst for enhancing our technology products—it’s also a core driver of our service model innovation,” said Samuel Fang, Head of Global After-Sales Services at OPPO. “We have already used AI to empower customer service capabilities across the organization, including R&D, customer experiences, and business operations. Now, through the evolution of AI agent technologies, we are transforming our customer services from a reactive to proactive approach that creates a more efficient, thoughtful, and intelligent service experience for OPPO users.”

OPPO Leads Industry with Proprietary Smart Service System

With current customer service systems often confined to providing automated, rules-based replies that fail to understand the increasingly diverse and personalized needs of users, OPPO has developed a proprietary intelligent service system that combines semantic understanding with generative AI to provide multilingual interactions across various scenarios. The system delivers tailored solutions based on accurate understanding of user intent and can act as a real-time AI assistant for human service agents, improving response efficiency while preserving the human touch.

To provide more effective customer services for users worldwide, OPPO has taken the lead in localizing its intelligent service system across 20 countries and regions, providing 24/7 uninterrupted service in 13 different languages. To enhance reach and accessibility, OPPO was also the first in the industry to introduce AI-driven WhatsApp services across 13 markets, each backed by local cloud services that ensure a smoother and more responsive user experience. Today, over 60% of OPPO users worldwide can resolve issues directly through AI. By the end of 2025, the system will be expanded to 21 markets and major platforms such as Facebook, Line, and Zalo (Vietnam’s leading social platform). By further aligning the system with local languages and communications preferences, OPPO is committed to providing more convenient and intuitive services that enable customers to resolve problems with greater efficiency.

End-to-End AI Service Framework Enables Rapid Query Resolution

More than a simple chatbot upgrade, the new intelligent service system features a comprehensive intelligent service framework covering the entire customer journey that has been independently developed by OPPO based on detailed user insights. Built on OPPO’s AndesGPT model, the system forms a closed-loop service architecture consisting of AI semantic recognition, intelligent routing, and a dynamic knowledge base. When a user submits a request, the system first interprets the true intent through semantic analysis before using intelligent routing to determine whether to hand the request to a human agent or respond via AI. It then generates a personalized response using a continuously updated knowledge base, resulting in a near-instant process from initial customer prompt to response. For users worldwide, OPPO has incorporated its own AI translation tool into the system, enabling accurate understanding and responses in multiple languages.

Following rigorous privacy and data security standards, OPPO integrates the intelligent service system across the OPPO ecosystem, allowing users to enjoy a more seamless and consistent experience between OPPO devices and platforms, with access to services anytime and anywhere. To ensure even more personal services when needed, the system also offers the ability to switch instantly to a human service operator. Meanwhile, AI assistants provide real-time support such as fault predictions and scripted responses for agents, resulting in a collaborative model that has reduced the workload of operators by 40%, freeing their time to focus on more complex requests.

To ensure continuous system adaptability, OPPO has also established localized AI operations roles in key markets. These teams are responsible for building regional knowledge bases, fine-tuning models, and collecting user feedback to drive ongoing optimizations. Alongside this, OPPO is accelerating the rollout of next-generation service capabilities to extend intelligent services from online channels to offline touchpoints. Future applications include retrieval-augmented generative, email response assistants, and intelligent queuing systems.

As AI continues to transform industries, OPPO’s dual focus on AI-powered products and intelligent services not only enables users to enjoy more convenient digital experiences but also redefines the connection between brand and customer, setting a new benchmark for intelligent customers services that provide the best in efficiency with a personal human touch.

Hashtag: #OPPO

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

Lee Kum Kee Supports the 2025 Asian Championship of World Chinese Cuisine

Where culinary elites are brought together to celebrate Asian gastronomy


HONG KONG, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 July 2025 – The 2025 Asian Championship of World Chinese Cuisine, organised by the World Federation of Chinese Catering Industry, was held on 26th June 2025 at the Chinese Culinary Institute in Hong Kong, China. As the title sponsor, Lee Kum Kee provided contestants with its sauce products for use, empowering top chefs from across Asia in crafting exquisite dishes and compete for top honours.

Wu Li, Vice President of the World Federation of Chinese Catering Industry (fifth from right), Samuel Cheng, Associate Director of Business Development of Hong Kong Trade Development Council (seventh from left), James Yap, Principal of Chinese Culinary Institute (sixth from left), representative from Lee Kum Kee and other guests join the grand opening of the competition.
Wu Li, Vice President of the World Federation of Chinese Catering Industry (fifth from right), Samuel Cheng, Associate Director of Business Development of Hong Kong Trade Development Council (seventh from left), James Yap, Principal of Chinese Culinary Institute (sixth from left), representative from Lee Kum Kee and other guests join the grand opening of the competition.

This marks the first time the competition being hosted in Hong Kong, China, drawing 70 teams of Chinese cuisine chefs from across Asia to showcase their culinary skills and foster expertise exchange. Each team was tasked with preparing one cold dish and two hot dishes within 90 minutes. A panel of professional judges evaluated the entries based on taste, creativity, presentation, and execution.

Throughout the competition, the chefs tactfully incorporated a variety of Lee Kum Kee sauces into their creations, demonstrating the versatile applications of the brand’s sauce products in professional settings. The event also served as a valuable platform for chefs to connect, exchange ideas, and elevate their culinary craftsmanship.

Chefs demonstrate their culinary skills by creatively incorporating Lee Kum Kee sauce products into their dishes.
Chefs demonstrate their culinary skills by creatively incorporating Lee Kum Kee sauce products into their dishes.

Following the one-day intense battle, the results were revealed at the “Lee Kum Kee Gala Dinner – 2025 Asian Championship of World Chinese Cuisine Awarding Ceremony”. The night brought together contestants, industry representatives and guests throughout Asia to enjoy a specially curated banquet featuring dishes made with Lee Kum Kee sauces and celebrate the achievements of winning chefs.

Dodie Hung, Executive Vice President – Corporate Affairs of Lee Kum Kee said, “Lee Kum Kee has always been working closely with culinary partners and chefs in supporting various cooking competitions and industry symposiums. We are thrilled to see chefs from across the region using our sauce products to curate delicious and innovative dishes in this prestigious competition. We look forward to continuing our collaboration with chefs to deliver superior Asian culinary experiences and promote Chinese culinary culture worldwide.”

Dodie Hung, Executive Vice President – Corporate Affairs of Lee Kum Kee (seventh from left) presents “Special Gold Award” to honour outstanding contestants for their culinary excellence.
Dodie Hung, Executive Vice President – Corporate Affairs of Lee Kum Kee (seventh from left) presents “Special Gold Award” to honour outstanding contestants for their culinary excellence.

Hashtag: #LeeKumKee #LKK #AsianChampionshipofWorldChineseCuisine

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

About Lee Kum Kee

Lee Kum Kee is the global gateway to Asian culinary culture, dedicated to promoting Chinese culinary culture worldwide. Since 1888, it has brought people together over joyful reunions, shared traditions, and memorable meals. Beloved by consumers and chefs alike, Lee Kum Kee’s range of more than 300 sauces and condiments sparks creativity in kitchens everywhere, inspiring professional and home chefs to experiment, create, and delight. Headquartered in Hong Kong, China and serving over 100 countries and regions, Lee Kum Kee’s rich heritage, unwavering commitment to quality, sustainable practices, and “Constant Entrepreneurship” combine to enable superior experiences through Asian cuisine for people worldwide. For more information, please visit .

About Asian Championship of World Chinese Cuisine

The Asian Championship of World Chinese Cuisine is organised by the World Federation Chinese Catering Industry, with execution by its International Master Chef Committee; co-organised by the Chinese Culinary Institute and Asia Art of Cuisine Society. This year marks the first time the competition is held in Hong Kong, China. The competition aims to establish a high-standard international platform for culinary exchange, promote the inheritance and innovation of Chinese culinary artistry, celebrate the spirit of craftsmanship in Chinese cuisine, and further elevate the influence of Chinese culinary culture globally.