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Pantum’s Efficient Pro Series Laser Printer Wins iF DESIGN AWARD 2025

ZHUHAI, China, April 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Pantum’s Efficient Pro Series monochrome laser printer has been honored with the prestigious iF DESIGN AWARD 2025 in March 2025, showcasing its outstanding design and functionality. This honor, presented by iF International Forum Design GmbH, one of the world’s oldest independent design institutions, highlights the printer’s innovation, practicality, and eco-friendly features.

Pantum
Pantum

The iF DESIGN AWARD is a globally recognized symbol of design excellence. Evaluated by a team of international experts, consisting of 131 independent design professionals, the Pantum Efficient Pro Series stood out impressively for its exemplary design concept among nearly 11,000 submissions from 66 countries.

With a unique “stacked geometry”design concept, the Efficient Pro Series is a brand-new lineup of A4 laser printers, showcasing Pantum’s innovative design language. It is noted for its high-performance printing capabilities, with an exceptional endurance of up to 200,000 pages without interruption and an extremely low jam rate below 0.02‰*, certified by CEPREI Laboratory, China’s authoritative testing institution. These attributes underscore its reliability and efficient performance suitable even under rigorous use.

Furthermore, the versatility in media handling sets this printer apart as it supports various media types including transparency sheets, labels, thick and thin papers. This flexibility makes them suitable for diverse printing needs across various industries.

Innovative additions also include automatic jam removal ensuring smooth operations without manual interventions and the Wi-Fi Direct feature which connects within ten seconds enhancing user convenience significantly.

The printer’s environmental credentials are further strengthened by its ENERGY STAR® certification, demonstrating Pantum’s commitment to sustainable product development.

Gary Chen, Deputy Director of Product & Technology Department at Pantum, stated, “This award reflects our unwavering commitment to innovation and quality. We strive to develop user-friendly products that meet the evolving needs of our customers, and the Efficient Pro Series is a perfect example of this dedication.”

In 2025, Pantum is set to launch new products, further demonstrating its brand strength and commitment to innovation. The company will continue to expand its global presence, focusing on delivering value to both businesses and home users.

Further information about the Efficient Pro Series Laser Printer can be found on the official ifdesign.com website under “Winners & iF Ranking”: https://ifdesign.com/en/winner-ranking/project/efficient-pro-series-laser-printers/712138

About Pantum

Founded in 2010, Pantum is an outstanding printer brand, with its business covering printers, printing materials, and printing solutions and services. Since 2012, Pantum began its overseas expansion with a current global footprint of more than 110 countries and regions. With its patented technology, Pantum is committed to meeting evolving printing needs by offering cost-effective, user-friendly, and energy-efficient products, as well as reliable printing solutions.

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*During continuous test working hours.

*Data based on reports from China SaiBao Laboratory (CEPREI, MIIT) (Report Nos. Z2408WT8888-011369/Z2408WT8888-011368). Tested under laboratory conditions. Actual performance may vary due to environmental and paper quality factors.

FLAIR to Debut at Manufacturing World Nagoya 2025

Showcasing Five Platform Technologies to Empower Industrial Advancement in the Central Japan Region

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 April 2025 – The Hong Kong Industrial Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Centre (FLAIR) will debut in Japan at Manufacturing World Nagoya 2025 (9-11 April, Port Messe Nagoya), showcasing advanced technologies to Japan’s manufacturing sector and fostering strategic collaborations to drive industrial innovation.

Manufacturing World Nagoya 2025: Inspiring Innovation and Uncovering New Opportunities in Manufacturing

Nagoya, a key manufacturing hub in Japan, hosts Manufacturing World Nagoya 2025 — Central Japan’s largest trade show for automotive, aerospace, and heavy industries. The event will spotlight cutting-edge technologies, including mechanical components, factory automation, additive manufacturing, and industrial cybersecurity, attracting over 30,000 professionals from R&D, production, and procurement. Exhibitors gain unmatched networking and business opportunities, while conferences offer insights from industry leaders on the latest trends and innovations.

FLAIR to Empower Japan’s Manufacturing Industry with Advanced Technologies and Intelligent Solutions

At the exhibition, FLAIR will showcase its mature industrial AI solutions and actively seek partnerships with leading manufacturing companies in the Chubu region. Recognising the region’s significance as Japan’s manufacturing heartland, FLAIR aims to help local businesses boost efficiency and quality while addressing global competition. Furthermore, FLAIR seeks to establish long-term collaborations with potential partners to drive innovation and development within the Chubu region’s manufacturing sector, fostering mutual success.

FLAIR will highlight its five commercially established spin-off platform solutions addressing: visual inspection, industrial product creation, next-generation warehouse logistics, low-code robotics, and sustainable green technologies, offering comprehensive support for the future of manufacturing.

FLAIR’s International R&D Team: Pioneering Industrial AI Innovation and Driving Global Transformation

FLAIR’s international R&D team brings together top global talent with deep expertise in AI and robotics. The team is dedicated to developing innovative solutions tailored to diverse industrial applications and expanding their global influence through commercialisation.

Backed by its world-class R&D team, FLAIR has earned numerous international accolades, including patents and inventions, underscoring its position as a leader in industrial AI innovation.

Visit FLAIR at Manufacturing World Nagoya 2025
FLAIR booth location: 23-80 at Manufacturing DX Expo
Visitor registration: Click Here
Media Enquiries: Click Here
Hashtag: #FLAIR

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

U.S. Ag Partners and U.S. Soy Lead Strategic Dialogue on the Future of Southeast Asia’s Food and Feed Sector

Industry Representatives and Experts Converge in Manila to Share and Exchange Perspectives on the Evolving Food, Feed, and Ag Trade Landscape

MANILA, Philippines, April 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In March 2025, Southeast Asia’s food, feed, and ag trade community gathered in Manila for two pivotal events hosted by the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC): the AG Supply Chain Asia Conference and the Asia Soy Excellence & Food Summit 2025. Each event drew a unique audience of industry leaders, traders, and technical experts, offering distinct platforms to exchange insights, explore market dynamics, and discuss opportunities shaping the future of food and agriculture in the region. Together, both events offered timely perspectives and forward-looking strategies that continue to inform and inspire progress across Southeast Asia’s agricultural value chain.

Southeast Asia remains a fast-growing market for U.S. Soy, fueled by increasing demand across both feed and food sectors. In Marketing Year (MY) 2023/24, the region imported 9.08 million metric tons (MMT) of whole soybeans and 20.89 MMT of soybean meal, underscoring its reliance on U.S. Soy for high-quality, sustainable protein solutions. The Philippines has been the top importer of U.S. soybean meal for eight consecutive years, while Vietnam and Indonesia’s imports have surged by 110% and 49%, respectively, over the last five years.

Additionally, the region’s food and beverage industry continue to embrace U.S. Soy’s quality and versatility, reinforcing its role in traditional and modern food applications. In MY 2023/24, Indonesia—the region’s largest food-use soybean importer—sourced 2.67 MMT of whole soybeans, with the U.S. supplying approximately 90% of those imports, underscoring its role in staple foods like tofu and tempe.

“The AG Supply Chain Asia Conference and the Asia Soy Excellence & Food Summit underscore U.S. Soy’s commitment to sustainability, innovation, and partnership,” said Timothy Loh, USSEC’s Regional Director for Southeast Asia & Oceania. “By bringing together key players across the food and feed value chain, we’re facilitating informed, forward-looking dialogue that supports stronger market connections, protein security, and promoting growth and collaboration across the region.”

With U.S. Soy remaining competitively priced in the global marketplace, the conferences provided a timely forum to address emerging challenges, drive innovation, and strengthen supply chains.

AG Supply Chain Asia (March 17–19, 2025)

Co-organized by USSEC, U.S. Grains Council, and U.S. Wheat Associates, AG Supply Chain Asia continues to be a premier platform for advancing agricultural trade in Southeast Asia. Themed “Transforming Agriculture: Advancing Trade with Sustainable Solutions”, the 2025 event focused on:

  • Global market trends shaping trade flows and supply chain strategies.
  • Innovations in logistics and transportation for greater efficiency.
  • Developments in the U.S. crushing industry and biofuels.
  • The role of U.S. Soy in securing a stable, high-quality supply for Southeast Asia.

The event facilitated business-to-business (B2B) engagements, connecting buyers with U.S. exporters to strengthen partnerships and explore new trade opportunities. Expert-led discussions also delved into sustainability-driven sourcing strategies, including the U.S. Soy Sustainability Assurance Protocol (SSAP), and the impact of shifting market dynamics on long-term food security.

Asia Soy Excellence & Food Summit 2025 (March 19–21, 2025)

Soy’s versatility extends beyond nutrition—it plays a vital role in shaping a sustainable food system, supporting food security, and meeting evolving consumer preferences. Themed “Nourishing with Soy – A Sustainable and Preferred Food Protein Solution”, the Asia Soy Excellence & Food Summit 2025 showcased soy’s essential contributions to global health and environmental sustainability, reinforcing its position as a preferred protein source.

The summit gathered U.S. Soy producers, soy suppliers, food producers, researchers, health professionals, and culinary experts to explore innovations in soy-based foods, sustainability strategies, and market trends driving the future of soy consumption.

Key discussions included:

  • Soy’s role in sustainable nutrition, delivering high-quality protein, essential fats, and key nutrients for human health.
  • Advancing soy-based food innovations, with insights into new product development and expanding consumer markets.
  • Strengthening industry capabilities, through discussions on sustainability standards, responsible sourcing, and opportunities for growth.

With a growing demand for plant-based and environmentally friendly food options, the summit underscored U.S. Soy’s leadership in delivering sustainable, nutritious, and high-quality soy products that align with the region’s evolving consumer needs.

With sustainability and food security as top priorities, U.S. Soy remains a trusted partner in Southeast Asia, providing high-quality, responsibly sourced solutions that drive long-term industry growth and support the region’s evolving food and feed needs.

This press release is funded in part by the soy checkoff. 

About the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC):  

The U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) focuses on differentiating, elevating preference, and attaining market access for the use of U.S. Soy for human consumption, aquaculture, and livestock feed in 93 countries internationally. USSEC members represent the soy supply chain including U.S. Soy farmers, processors, commodity shippers, merchandisers, allied agribusinesses, and agricultural organizations. USSEC is funded by the soy checkoff, USDA Foreign Agricultural Service matching funds, and industry. Visit ussec.org for the latest information and news about USSEC and U.S. Soy internationally. 

Jim Sutter, USSEC CEO (far left) and Timothy Loh, Regional Director for Southeast Asia & Oceania (far right), at the conferences in Manila.
Jim Sutter, USSEC CEO (far left) and Timothy Loh, Regional Director for Southeast Asia & Oceania (far right), at the conferences in Manila.

 

PSB Academy Unveils Third City Campus in Singapore, Plans to Advance Industry-Relevant Education

  • Located at the iconic The Cathay building, PSB Academy’s (PSBA) third campus spans 28,000 sq ft and features state-of-the-art facilities designed to enhance the learning experience, particularly for distance-learning students.
  • The Cathay Campus will offer industry-relevant programmes in collaboration with Coventry University, ensuring that students gain practical skills for real-world applications.
  • The launch event featured the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between PSBA, Coventry University, and COSEM, a cooperative of Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF). This collaboration aims to train more paramedicine professionals to address the nation’s increasing emergency calls and manpower shortage.

SINGAPORE, April 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — PSB Academy (PSBA), Singapore’s leading private education institution (PEI), has officially launched its third campus at The Cathay, alongside the signing of a tripartite collaboration to enhance paramedicine education in Singapore. This new collaboration with Coventry University and COSEM, a cooperative of Singapore Civil Defence Force (SCDF), aims to introduce specialised paramedicine courses to address the nation’s rising emergency call volumes and workforce shortages.

From left: Mr Derrick Chang, CEO of PSB Academy; Mr Viva Sinniah, Executive Chairman of PSB Academy; Her Excellency Alice Cooke, Acting Deputy High Commissioner, British High Commission Singapore; Professor Richard Wells, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International) of Coventry University; Professor John Latham CBE, Vice-Chancellor of Coventry University; and Mr Escamillo Lin, Board Director, PSB Academy.
From left: Mr Derrick Chang, CEO of PSB Academy; Mr Viva Sinniah, Executive Chairman of PSB Academy; Her Excellency Alice Cooke, Acting Deputy High Commissioner, British High Commission Singapore; Professor Richard Wells, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International) of Coventry University; Professor John Latham CBE, Vice-Chancellor of Coventry University; and Mr Escamillo Lin, Board Director, PSB Academy.

The inauguration event was graced by Her Excellency Alice Cooke, Acting Deputy High Commissioner, British High Commission Singapore. It is also attended by prominent guests such as Coventry University Vice-Chancellor, Professor John Latham CBE, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (International), Professor Richard Wells, Coventry University Singapore Hub Managing Director, Dr Michael Yap, SCDF Deputy Commissioners, DC Teong How Hwa and DC Daniel Seet, and COSEM Safety & Security Services General Manager, Anthony Pek.

Derrick Chang, Chief Executive Officer of PSBA, shared: “The Cathay Campus represents an important evolution in PSB Academy’s mission to cultivate industry-ready graduates that are trained with practical skills for real-world applications. Industry collaborations underpin our approach to education. This expansion of our facilities ensures that students have access to a learning environment that not only meets academic standards but also reflects the needs of today’s workforce.”

Pioneering Industry-Relevant Education in Singapore

At the launch, both PSBA and Coventry University kickstarted with a symbolic signing of the Comprehensive Strategic Collaboration Agreement to signal both organisations’ commitment to enhancing the delivery of quality degree programmes in Singapore. This was followed by the signing of a tripartite collaboration between Coventry University, COSEM, and PSBA to advance paramedicine education in Singapore. This initiative integrates COSEM’s industry leadership, Coventry University’s academic framework, and PSBA’s delivery excellence to establish a rigorous paramedicine training programme.

Professor John Latham, Vice Chancellor of Coventry University UK comments: “In the current healthcare climate, there is a pressing need for academic institutions and industry stakeholders to synergise to elevate emergency response training. With Singapore’s emergency call volumes rising annually, it is crucial that paramedicine professionals receive training that is both academically rigorous and practically relevant to meet evolving healthcare challenges.”

Last year, SCDF responded to 245,279 Emergency Medical Services (EMS) calls, with almost half of them involving seniors over the age of 65. The number is expected to increase this year as the country’s aging population continues to grow.

Deputy Commissioner Teong How Hwa, SCDF shared on the initiative’s significance on the emergency workforce: “This collaboration marks a significant step in enhancing SCDF’s Emergency Medical Services. By offering quality educational pathways and specialised training in paramedicine, we are able to equip aspiring paramedics with advanced medical expertise and skills. This ensures a competent and resilient EMS workforce to meet Singapore’s growing demand for pre-hospital emergency care.”

Michael Chua, Chief Executive Officer of COSEM underscored the programme’s impact in relevance to the real scenarios their workforce faces everyday: “This collaboration is meant to strengthen Singapore’s pre-hospital emergency care capabilities at a time when demand is at an all-time high. Paramedics need to have advanced skills to ensure faster, more effective responses to a wide range of medical emergencies.”

PSBA’s New Cathay Campus Outlook

As Singapore’s first skyscraper and home to its first air-conditioned cinema, The Cathay building has long been a symbol of progress. PSBA’s presence in this landmark reflects its own transformation from its origin under Singapore’s Economic Development Board in 1964 to now having grown into one of the country’s top PEIs committed to bridging academic learning with industry relevance.

This third campus complements PSB Academy’s City Campus and STEM Wing at Marina Square, expanding its learning infrastructure with advanced classrooms equipped with cutting-edge audiovisual systems designed to enhance hybrid learning that simulate in-person interactions for distance learners.

Derrick Chang, Chief Executive Officer of PSBA shared: “PSB Academy has always believed in keeping education accessible and flexible to all, whether they are students who can commit to full time classroom learning, or working professionals who need to fit in classes in their complex schedules. When designing the Cathay Campus, we kept flexibility needs forefront, because education pathways are constantly evolving and we have to make room for these changes. The idea is to always give students the best learning experience no matter where they are learning from.”

The new campus enhances teaching and learning experience with state-of-the-art facilities. Each space features a confidence TV for seamless lesson delivery and auto-tracking cameras that revolutionise hybrid and online learning by following a lecturer’s movements. With features such as 4K UHD resolution and hands-free operation, these cameras ensure remote students stay engaged, offering clear visuals of the lecturer and their content that seek to enhance interaction and bridge the gap between online and in-person education. Integrated with advanced learning platforms, these additions to the campus create a dynamic and interactive academic experience.

PSBA’s Cathay Campus began operations on 01 April 2025.

For more information, please visit: https://www.psb-academy.edu.sg/coventry-university.

END

About PSB Academy

As one of Singapore’s leading private education institutions with a 60-year heritage of producing more than 200,000 learners, PSB Academy is committed to defining its identity as “Asia’s Future Academy”. Established in 1964, the Academy started under Singapore’s Economic Development Board and later the Productivity and Standards Board to upgrade the knowledge and skills of Singapore’s workforce. With an approach to education that focuses on what really matters: performance in the New Economy, PSB Academy provides quality education to shape and nurture future-ready graduates with the necessary skills and tools to stay relevant in a digitally-driven economy.

PSB Academy campuses include three dynamic locations, with the newly added Cathay Campus at the iconic building of The Cathay at the buzzing Orchard Road, alongside its City Campus comprising the Main Wing and STEM Wing at Marina Square Shopping Mall. The learning spaces in the heart of the city connect students globally through a collaborative learning and networking environment that enables them to be agile innovators and contributors to society.

With a strong network of industry partners to prepare students for the workforce, PSB Academy today hosts over 20,000 students from more than 50 nationalities with its slate of certificate, diploma, degree, and short courses.

For more information, please visit https://www.psb-academy.edu.sg/.

 

Arup honoured with multiple awards at HKIE 50th Anniversary for its achievements in decades of shaping Hong Kong


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 April 2025 – Arup, a global built environment consultant, has been recognised with eight awards at The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers (HKIE) 50th Anniversary Legacy Award, including five Grand Awards and three Merit Awards, honouring its continuous contributions to engineering, industry and society in Hong Kong and beyond.

Arup honoured with multiple awards at HKIE 50th Anniversary for its achievements in decades of shaping Hong Kong

“Since establishing our Hong Kong office in 1976, Arup has transformed the cityscape through our multidisciplinary expertise, from strategic planning and iconic buildings to critical infrastructure and cultural hubs. These accolades reaffirm our decades of commitment to advancing the city’s progress and contributing to its sustainable development.”

– Theresa Yeung, Managing Principal, East Asia

Fire Engineering Approach for Large Spaces
Grand Award in Innovation category

In the early 2000s, Arup pioneered a revolutionary fire safety solution for large atria by combining long-throw sprinklers with infra-red flame detectors. First implemented at Langham Place and International Commerce Centre, this innovative approach transformed how architects and engineers address fire safety in expansive areas. The system’s success has enabled the creation of iconic spaces in Hong Kong, from shopping malls to airport terminals, while maintaining both aesthetics and functional integrity. It has also set a new standard for fire safety engineering in Hong Kong.

HSBC Data Centre
Grand Award in Industrial category

The HSBC Data Centre in Tseung Kwan O marked a milestone in Hong Kong’s digital infrastructure development. As Asia’s largest data centre when completed in 2008, it pioneered new standards in security, reliability, and sustainability. The facility processes transactions for HSBC operations across 30 countries, strengthening Hong Kong’s position as a global financial hub. Its groundbreaking Tier III+ design, with capability for Tier IV upgrade, set new benchmarks for data centre development. The project’s innovative features, from advanced security systems to sustainable design elements, continue to influence data centre construction worldwide.

Stonecutters Bridge
Grand Award in Infrastructure category

With the world’s tallest freestanding monopole towers and 1,018m cable-stayed span, Stonecutters Bridge stands as an icon of Hong Kong’s engineering excellence. Commissioned in 2009, it features unprecedented innovations including the most extensive use of structural stainless-steel skin globally in the upper portion of the bridge towers. The bridge serves as a vital link in Route 8, connecting the bustling Kwai Chung Container Terminals to Hong Kong’s transport network. Its elegant design and technical innovations have earned numerous international awards, while its dramatic presence has become an exemplar showcase of Hong Kong’s world-class infrastructure.

Terminal 1, Hong Kong International Airport
Grand Award in Infrastructure category

Hong Kong International Airport Terminal 1 has revolutionised airport design with its iconic barrel-vaulted roof structure, creating one of the world’s most efficient and passenger-friendly airports. The innovative design features 129 parallel vaults spanning 36m each, creating vast column-free spaces flooded with natural light. Since its 1998 opening, the terminal has grown from handling 35 million to over 50 million passengers annually, showcasing its remarkable adaptability. The terminal’s enduring success and consistent ranking among the world’s best airports demonstrate how innovative engineering can create sustainable, efficient, and beautiful transportation hubs.

West Rail
Grand Award in Infrastructure category

The West Rail Line has enhanced connectivity in Hong Kong’s New Territories, with the Yuen Long Section standing as its most impressive achievement. This 7.6km section features Hong Kong’s most extensive elevated rail viaduct and three major stations. Its groundbreaking noise control system achieved unprecedented 24dBA reduction, setting new global standards for urban railways. The project’s sophisticated integration of infrastructure with community needs, particularly at the 480m-long Tin Shui Wai Station, demonstrates how innovative engineering can enhance urban development while protecting community well-being.

Two other influential projects where Arup played a key role – Kai Tak Sports Park and the Hong Kong Section of Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link – also received Grand Awards.

Other winning projects include:

  • Admiralty Station extension – Merit Award in Infrastructure category
  • Hong Kong West Drainage Tunnel – Merit Award in Infrastructure category
  • Shenzhen Bay Bridge – Merit Award in Infrastructure category

In addition, Ir Dr Andrew Chan, former Chair of Arup Group’s Trustee Board, was bestowed with the HKIE Honorary Fellow title for his remarkable contribution to the HKIE, engineering industry and society.

The HKIE 50th Anniversary Legacy Award is designed to celebrate outstanding engineering projects, groundbreaking technologies, and transformative initiatives that have made a lasting impact on the engineering landscape, industry and society of Hong Kong and across the globe over the past five decades.
Hashtag: #Arup

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

About Arup

Dedicated to sustainable development, Arup is a collective of 18,000 designers, advisors and experts working across 140 countries. Founded to strive for humanity and excellence in everything that we do, we collaborate with our clients and partners, using imagination, technology, and rigour to shape a better world.

Global Times: Rooting Chinese drama in ancient philosophy

BEIJING, April 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Chinese drama standing out in the world of drama depends on whether we can find the roots of our national culture and the light of our philosophical thought, as well as well as whether we can apply artistic wisdom to localize Western theories in a Chinese context and adapt creative methods to align with national depth and breadth. Chinese philosophy nourishes our souls and fosters our thinking and aesthetic awareness. To construct a Chinese theatrical system, we need to unearth aesthetic ideas and philosophical foundations from our own theatrical traditions. Otherwise, the Chinese theatrical system will remain at the level of mere “technique” with refined “skills” but unclear Dao (the fundamental principle of the universe).

This article traces the origins of Laozi and Zhuangzi’s philosophy, suggesting that drama practitioners should consciously strive for the ideal of “art for the sake of life.” It seeks inspiration from the expressive techniques of Laozi and Zhuangzi, including their use of abstraction, xieyi (freehand expression), the construction of artistic yijing (mood and conception) and the interplay of reality and illusion, while exploring the relationship between Laozi and Zhuangzi’s philosophy and the development of a Chinese theatrical system in the new era.

Devt of Chinese drama needs to incorporate a philosophical perspective

As society progresses and technology advances, diverse forms of drama – such as digital drama, machine drama, and cyber performances – are emerging. What will the future of drama look like? We are faced with new questions. Theatrical art is a dynamic art form, and its creative concepts and methods must evolve alongside the times. However, amidst this overwhelming array of options, drama practitioners need to reflect carefully on more than just technique: What are the cultural characteristics of our nation? What is the theoretical foundation that shapes our aesthetic needs and tastes? Where do the philosophical roots that ground Chinese people’s understanding of life come from? And what is the essence of the Chinese theatrical approach that is closely tied to these questions?

Thought is the soul of drama. Drama is not just about aesthetic expression, it can also be a reflection of philosophy. Dramatists need to draw from philosophy, sociology, psychology, and other fields to drive artistic creation forward through the power of thought.

Ouyang Yuqian, a renowned Chinese dramatist, actor, playwright, and educator, once said that we should “create the latest and most beautiful theatrical art on the foundation of tradition,” which points us in the right direction for exploration. Chinese philosophy nourishes our souls and fosters our ways of thinking and aesthetic awareness. To build a Chinese theatrical system, we must first unearth aesthetic ideas and philosophical foundations within our own cultural heritage.

Influence of Zhuangzi’s thought on Chinese drama

Although the philosophical work Zhuangzi is not an aesthetic treatise, it has profoundly influenced the discourse of Chinese artistic creation and criticism, shaping Chinese theatrical concepts and aesthetic tastes. 

The beauty depicted in the Zhuangzi is unrelated to practicality, material satisfaction, or the pursuit of accomplishments. Zhuangzi advocates for a life that is “artistic,” one that strives for an artistic existence. Artists must come to understand the vital importance of art in the lives of ordinary people, seeing their creative duty as “making art for life.” Only in this way can they truly embody the spirit of Chinese art, which embraces the pursuit of ideals and the joy of artistic expression.

Contemporary drama practitioners should strive to hone their craft with the same unwavering dedication as the artisans in the Zhuangzi, elevating their spiritual cultivation and embodying the unique spiritual qualities and humanistic sentiments of the Chinese people. They should avoid shallowly indulging in form and technique and not be constrained by external practical goals. Instead, they should draw inspiration from Chinese aesthetics and artistic spirit to foster a conscious engagement with theory and creation, working to produce theatrical works that reflect national characteristics, embody cultural identity, and resonate with the features of our times and the human sentiment.

Zhuangzi excels at using exaggerated language to describe his subjects. The situations and character portrayals he presents, with just a few words, can reach the essence of the spirit, thereby creating a profound artistic conception. His expressive techniques and the way he generates artistic meaning have had a great impact on various artistic forms in China, including fine arts, sculpture, poetry, music, and drama.

Chinese art seeks to capture a sense of nuance, which emerges from the interplay between presence and absence, as well as the tangible and the intangible. Techniques like the use of blank space in traditional Chinese painting, the balance of density and sparsity in calligraphy, the intricate hollowing in shadow puppetry, and the chengshi (sets of technical rules and regulations) in Chinese opera all exemplify artistic methods that explore the relationship between what is present and what is absent, as well as between the real and the illusory.

Traditional Chinese drama is a stage of “presence and absence,” appearing seemingly vacant, yet through the actors’ performances, it can bring forth the myriad elements of Heaven and Earth. A “void” is created by the actors, transforming in the audience’s imagination into “something,” thereby forming a complete theatrical representation.

The inspiration of Laozi and Zhuangzi philosophy in constructing China’s theatrical system

Most existing theories of literary and artistic creation are experiential summaries, distilled from analyzing and generalizing classic works. In contrast, the philosophy of Laozi and Zhuangzi begins at the very source of things, contemplating how a truly great work comes into being. In fact, masterpieces are not the result of force or meticulous planning. Many great works of art have been created unintentionally – born out of genuine interest, free from utilitarian motives. Only when artists are deeply moved by profound experiences can they create enduring classics.

Drama is an important medium through which ­humanity engages in self-understanding and ­self-exploration. From Zhuangzi’s perspective, drama is a dream that reflects reality, while life is reality within a dream. 

Both drama and philosophy seek to answer fundamental questions about human existence – such as “What is the meaning of life?” and “Who am I?” In this sense, drama is not only an art form but also a kind of philosophy. Drama gains depth through historical reflection, and reaches new heights through philosophical inquiry. The unbroken continuity of Chinese civilization over more than five millennia means that the Chinese people must seek their spiritual grounding within their own cultural heritage. The development of a Chinese theatrical system should be rooted in the finest traditions of Chinese culture, using drama as a vessel to support the growth of the Chinese people – from the physical to the spiritual.

Security Bank Partners with Entrust to Elevate Digital Onboarding Experience

One of the Philippines’ leading universal banks strengthens its digital-first strategy with a seamless and secure customer onboarding experience.

MANILA, Philippines, April 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Entrust, a global leader in identity-centric security solutions, has announced a partnership with Security Bank, a leading financial institution in the Philippines, to enhance the bank’s electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) process. This partnership marks a significant milestone in Security Bank’s digital transformation journey, reinforcing its commitment to providing a secure, seamless, and customer-centric banking experience.

The Philippines’ digital banking market is poised for rapid expansion, with a projected compound annual growth rate of 31% through 2029, reaching a market volume of US$2.16 billion. Amid this surge in digital banking adoption, Security Bank is modernizing its eKYC process through its new Security Bank app to streamline the digital onboarding journey for its customers.

Security Bank selected Entrust for its proven expertise in secure digital identity verification and demonstrated success in the financial sector. The bank will leverage the Entrust Onfido Studio platform, which combines robust security features with advanced fraud detection capabilities, including deepfake detection and prevention. The platform’s flexible orchestration capabilities enable Security Bank to create customized onboarding workflows while maintaining regulatory compliance.

“Security Bank is transforming digital banking in the Philippines, and we’re proud to support their vision with advanced identity verification that makes onboarding both more secure and convenient,” said Harvinder Singh, Regional Vice President of Sales, APAC at Entrust. “Our solution helps Security Bank deliver the experience their customers expect, while maintaining the highest standards of security and fraud prevention.”

The partnership is delivering measurable results for Security Bank, including a significant increase in customer onboarding completions and reduced onboarding times. The bank is also leveraging Entrust dedicated technical specialists, who provide ongoing improvements and best practices to optimize the user experience.

“Our partnership with Entrust is a testament to our BetterBanking commitment to our customers,” said Juan Mestas, SVP and Strategy, Innovation Architecture, and Platform Division Head at Security Bank. “By leveraging Entrust’s advanced identity verification technology, we’re not only enhancing the security and accessibility of our banking services but also ensuring that every customer interaction—digital or in-person—is convenient and reliable. Looking ahead, we plan to expand these capabilities across other services to give customers the best experience possible.”

While initially focused on retail banking onboarding, Security Bank plans to extend Entrust identity verification solutions across its broader portfolio of services. The technology will be leveraged to enhance the customer experience across additional digital services, ensuring consistent security and convenience across all banking touchpoints.

“Our vision is to deliver truly integrated, omnichannel banking for our customers,” said Malcolm Yow, SVP and Retail CTO at Security Bank. “With Entrust identity verification, customers will have a seamless experience whether they’re using our new Security Bank app, visiting a branch, or accessing phone banking services. This integrated approach strengthens our position as a digital banking leader in the Philippines and reinforces our commitment to delivering innovative, customer-centric solutions.”

About Entrust
Entrust is an innovative leader in identity-centric security solutions, providing an integrated platform of scalable, AI-enabled security offerings. We enable organizations to safeguard their operations, evolve without compromise, and protect their interactions in an interconnected world – so they can transform their businesses with confidence. Entrust supports customers in 150+ countries and works with a global partner network. We are trusted by the world’s most trusted organizations. Learn more at www.entrust.com

About Security Bank
Established in 1951, Security Bank is one of the Philippines’ leading universal banks and is publicly listed with the Philippine Stock Exchange (PSE:SECB) in 1995. The Bank’s major businesses cover retail, corporate, commercial, and business (MSME) banking, offering a wide range of services including lending, leasing, foreign exchange, stock brokerage, investment banking, and asset management. The Bank has been recognized by international and local organizations for its continuous product innovation, market leadership, and best-in-class management practices. More information is available at www.securitybank.com.

Anime Entertainment Startup INCUBASE Studio Partners with K11 Concepts Management Limited for Global ACGN Cultural Experiences

HONG KONG, April 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Entertainment experience curator INCUBASE Studio announced a strategic partnership with K11 Concepts Management Limited to jointly promote global anime culture. K11 Experience serving as K11 Concepts Management Limited’s IP incubation platform for anime, culture and imagination, aims to develop anime-driven cultural and entertainment experiences; and customise journeys of imagination  for customers. Through this collaboration, INCUBASE Studio will leverage K11 Experience’s extensive customer base, ticketing platform, CRM system and supporting ecosystem to introduce INCUBASE Studio’s exhibition projects, creating immersive ACGN cultural experiences for next-generation consumers, local and worldwide.  

INCUBASE Studio announced today a strategic partnership with K11 Concepts Management Limited to jointly promote global anime culture.
INCUBASE Studio announced today a strategic partnership with K11 Concepts Management Limited to jointly promote global anime culture.

Since its establishment in Hong Kong in 2021, INCUBASE Studio has been dedicated to promoting anime culture and unprecedented entertainment experiences across the world as a curator and producer of experiential entertainment. The startup takes pride in its portfolio of renowned IP-based experiences in Hong Kong and across Asia, which can be categorised into two types of exhibitions. The first type consists of brand-new experiences designed and curated by INCUBASE Studio, including the immersive ‘One Piece The Great Era of Piracy Exhibition Asia Tour’, ‘The Conjuring Universe Tour’ inspired by the blockbuster horror franchise, and ‘The Peppa Pig Treasure Hunt Family Interactive Exhibition’ debuted in summer 2024.

The second type involves INCUBASE Studio bringing exhibitions from Japan to Hong Kong SAR and other regions, adding region-specific elements to enhance connections and interactions with local fans. Notable exhibitions include the ‘Fullmetal Alchemist Exhibition’, ‘DETECTIVE CONAN THE MOVIE Exhibition – A Silver Screen Retrospective’, ‘Kamen Rider 50th Anniversary Exhibition’ and ‘Chainsaw Man Animation Exhibition’, all of which have received widespread acclaim and created a buzz in the local community.

INCUBASE Studio owns the online ticketing platform INCUTix and opened its first anime cultural experience hub INCUBASE Arena in Hong Kong in 2024, along with the brick-and-mortar INCUShop. These offerings provide a holistic and diverse range of anime-based cultural and entertainment experiences encompassing exhibitions, events, F&B and merchandise. INCUBASE Arena expanded with a branch in Malaysia in January 2025 and is set to further extend its presence into other Southeast Asian countries, Mainland China, Taiwan region, as well as the Middle East, Europe and the Americas, as part of its effort to carve a vibrant community out of the anime fandom worldwide and promote anime culture and experiences.

Dr. Adrian Cheng, founder of K11, has been actively promoting the development of cultural industry. Richard Cheung, Group CEO at K11 Concepts Management Limited, describes the strategic collaboration with INCUBASE Studio as a significant step to create fertile ground for the development of anime culture sector. ‘We have been committed to the business model that combines culture and commerce to create value. In face of the massive opportunities in anime and ACGN culture sector, we have decided to invest in INCUBASE Studio to support the development of local creative industry and promote anime culture. INCUBASE Studio has strong capabilities in IP acquisition and integration, especially Japanese IP. Through this strategic partnership, we will pave the way for anime, culture and entertainment industry to grow, with a view to curating richer and more diverse cultural environs while achieving economic benefits.’

Sion Yip, Founder and CEO of INCUBASE Studio, expresses hope that the partnership will open audience’s eyes to innovations in anime culture. ‘We are honoured to partner with K11 Concepts Management Limited, bringing significant development opportunities for anime entertainment experiences across the world. The collaboration adds momentum to the future endeavours set out in our development blueprint. Looking ahead, we will introduce more world-class IPs on their IP incubation platform K11 Experience, and explore deeper forms of collaboration, providing innovative entertainment experiences to fans worldwide and establish Hong Kong as a hub for the anime industry in Asia.’

Sion revealed that INCUBASE Studio has ambitious plans to host major exhibitions designed and curated by the team featuring iconic IPs like ‘Crayon Shin-chan’, ‘Dragon Ball’ and ‘Monster Hunter’ this year across Asia. They are also working to bring a variety of highly anticipated exhibitions and themed pop-up stores, including ‘Cardcaptor Sakura’, ‘DAN DA DAN’, ‘The Idolmaster’ and ‘Oshi no Ko’, to regions beyond Japan.