A research team at Chulalongkorn University is transforming chemistry education through an immersive 3D “Chemistry Metaverse,” a platform that blends gaming with scientific training to expand access, improve safety, and better align learning with real-world skills.

BANGKOK, April 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Developed under the Metaverse of Academic Nexus for Global Opportunities (MANGOs), the platform allows students to enter a virtual “digital twin” of the university’s Faculty of Science. Inside, they can conduct experiments, operate advanced instruments, and solve real-world problems through interactive simulations.

The idea originated from Assoc. Prof. Dr. Chadin Kulsing, a chemistry researcher and avid gamer, who saw potential in turning the engagement of virtual worlds into meaningful learning. A chance collaboration with Prof. Dr. Lunchakorn Wuttisittikulkij of the Faculty of Engineering helped bring the concept to life, resulting in a cross-disciplinary project combining chemistry, electrical engineering, and 3D game development.

Unlike traditional laboratories, often constrained by cost, equipment shortages, and safety risks, the metaverse provides a risk-free environment where students can experiment freely without real-world consequences, reinforcing safety awareness and scientific reasoning.

The platform is structured around outcome-based education, focusing on practical competencies rather than theoretical knowledge alone. Universities can collaborate with industry partners to design modules that train students in specific skills, such as operating complex instruments or optimizing chemical processes.

Learning is gamified through a tiered system, guiding users from beginner to professional levels via “quests.” Modules range from virtual titration exercises to forensic investigations, where students analyze DNA samples to solve simulated crimes. Advanced tools like gas chromatography—typically inaccessible to many undergraduates—are also available in the virtual environment.

One of the platform’s most innovative features is its integration with scent-release technology, enabling users to experience “virtual smells” linked to digital objects, such as plants in a simulated herb garden. This multi-sensory approach aims to deepen engagement and understanding.  Beyond teaching, the metaverse functions as a virtual research center, offering databases of chemical compounds and natural products that could support industries such as cosmetics and perfumery.

While adoption will depend on institutional policies, the project has already attracted international interest, with partners in Australia, Italy, and Southeast Asia exploring integration. Developers say the long-term goal is a global network of connected virtual campuses.

By merging gaming with science, the Chemistry Metaverse turns any laptop into a lab and reshapes how students learn chemistry.

Read more: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/highlight/293902/

Media Contact:
Pataraporn.r@chula.ac.th

XI’AN, China, April 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Recently, LONGi announced two major technological breakthroughs. First, its independently developed Hybrid Interdigitated-Back-Contact (HIBC) solar cell has been certified by the Institute for Solar Energy Research Hamelin (ISFH) in Germany, achieving a photoelectric conversion efficiency of 28.13%. This marks yet another step forward toward the theoretical efficiency limit of crystalline silicon solar cells, following LONGi’s previous efficiency record of 28.04% set in January 2026. Second, modules fabricated based on HIBC solar cells have been certified by the U.S. National Laboratory of the Rockies(NLR), with efficiency breaking through to 26.4% — setting a new record after LONGi had earlier pushed the crystalline silicon module efficiency to 26%.

As the ultimate solution for single-junction crystalline silicon cell technology, the HIBC cell developed by LONGi’s Central R&D Institute represents a culmination of the strengths of various cell technologies. The R&D team has innovatively introduced core technologies such as in-situ Patterned Edge Passivation (iPET) and Laser-Induced Crystallization modification (LIC). Through systematic optimization of structural design, material selection, and fabrication processes, the team has achieved multiple breakthroughs in optical performance, interface passivation quality, and charge transport efficiency, paving a mature pathway for the commercial deployment of ultra-high-efficiency crystalline silicon cells.

These hardcore breakthroughs in technological strength have already translated into a leading edge in mass production. In April 2026, the authoritative global PV media outlet TaiyangNews released its ranking of commercialized mass-produced module efficiencies, and LONGi’s  EcoLife series modules, powered by HIBC technology, secured the top spot with a mass-production efficiency of 25%. This achievement marks the official completion of a complete closed loop spanning from laboratory R&D to large-scale commercial application for HIBC cells, delivering yet another premium clean energy solution to global customers — one that offers “high efficiency, high energy yield, aesthetic versatility, and certified safety and reliability”.

Having been deeply engaged in the clean energy field for many years, LONGi has established a comprehensive “Green Power + Green Hydrogen + Energy Storage” full-chain clean energy solution, consistently driving technological iteration through independent innovation to deliver high-quality products across all application scenarios to global customers. Moving forward, LONGi will continue to focus on technological innovation, accelerating the translation of laboratory efficiency breakthroughs into large-scale manufacturing, and serving the global energy transition with more competitive clean energy products to help build a zero-carbon and sustainable green energy ecosystem.

SINGAPORE, April 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Digital travel platform Agoda has identified the top five holiday destinations for Labor Day 2026, based on accommodation search data. This year’s list features Tokyo, Pattaya, Seoul, Osaka, and Busan, offering a mix of cultural experiences, vibrant cityscapes, and relaxing getaways for travelers to explore new destinations and unwind from their daily routines.

Tokyo, Japan, offers a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. Visitors can explore the capital city’s historic sites such as the Meiji Shrine and the Imperial Palace, while also experiencing the futuristic allure of districts like Shibuya and Akihabara. The city’s culinary scene is a highlight, with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to bustling street food markets. Tokyo’s vibrant neighborhoods, cultural festivals, and cutting-edge technology make it a dynamic destination for travelers seeking both excitement and cultural enrichment.

Pattaya, Thailand, known for its lively beaches and vibrant nightlife, provides a tropical escape on Thailand’s eastern Gulf coast. The city offers a mix of relaxation and adventure, with opportunities for water sports, island hopping, and exploring nearby attractions like the Sanctuary of Truth. Pattaya’s Walking Street is famous for its energetic nightlife, while quieter spots like Jomtien Beach provide a more laid-back atmosphere. With its diverse range of activities and stunning coastal views, Pattaya is an ideal destination for those looking to unwind and enjoy the sun.

Seoul, South Korea, is a city where history and innovation coexist harmoniously. Visitors can explore ancient palaces such as Gyeongbokgung and Changdeokgung, while also enjoying the modern attractions of districts like Gangnam and Myeongdong. Seoul’s vibrant street markets, diverse culinary offerings, and thriving arts scene provide endless opportunities for exploration. The city’s efficient public transportation system makes it easy to navigate, allowing travelers to experience everything from traditional tea houses to cutting-edge technology hubs.

Osaka, Japan, known for its street food and entertainment districts, delights the senses with its unique offerings. Visitors can indulge in local specialties like takoyaki and okonomiyaki, while exploring bustling areas such as Dotonbori and Namba. Osaka Castle offers a glimpse into the city’s historical past, while Universal Studios Japan provides family-friendly entertainment. With its friendly locals and lively atmosphere, Osaka is a welcoming destination that offers a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and fun.

Busan, South Korea, offers stunning coastal views and a rich cultural landscape. The country’s second-largest city is home to a range of beaches, such as Haeundae and Gwangalli, which are perfect for relaxation and water activities. Visitors can explore cultural landmarks like the Beomeosa Temple and the Gamcheon Culture Village, known for its colorful houses and artistic installations. Busan’s seafood markets and local cuisine provide a taste of the region’s culinary heritage. With its mix of natural beauty and cultural attractions, Busan is a serene yet engaging destination for travelers.

Jay Lee, Regional Director, North Asia at Agoda shared, “Labor Day offers a great opportunity to explore new destinations. Whether you’re drawn to the bustling energy of Tokyo or the serene landscapes of Busan, Agoda’s comprehensive selection of accommodations, flights, and activities provides the flexibility to plan a trip that suits your preferences. Our platform is designed to make travel planning straightforward and enjoyable, ensuring a memorable Labor Day experience for all travelers.”

With over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, Agoda offers travelers the flexibility to create their ideal Labor Day getaway. For the best deals, travelers can visit Agoda’s website or download the Agoda mobile app.

Collaboration strengthens governance and cyber resilience as autonomous AI
becomes increasingly embedded in physical and operational environments

SINGAPORE, April 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Certis Group, Singapore’s leading provider of integrated security and operations solutions, and Ensign InfoSecurity, Asia Pacific’s largest pure-play cybersecurity services provider, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the Milipol TechX (MTX) 2026, a regional platform for security and technology innovation, to strengthen cybersecurity, safety and governance in robotic systems powered by artificial intelligence.

The partnership addresses a growing challenge as AI systems evolve from assisting humans to acting autonomously. Beyond conventional cybersecurity threats which typically result in data breaches or system outages, vulnerabilities in AI robotic systems carry an additional category of risk: manipulated sensor inputs, loss of supervisory control, or autonomous systems executing unintended physical actions with real-world consequences.

This collaboration comes as Singapore increases the deployment of autonomous systems to aid in security, logistics and transport operations, highlighting the urgent need to translate governance principles into practical, operational safeguards, particularly in real-world environments where there is little room for error.

Under the MOU, both organisations will work together to strengthen cybersecurity, safety and ethical governance in AI-driven robotics. Certis will lead the development and implementation of safety and ethics fail-safes, as well as Human-in-the-Loop interfaces within the AI robotic platform. In parallel, Ensign will oversee the development of cybersecurity requirements governing the platform’s communication interfaces, as well as the AI’s core reasoning and decision-making processes, including the design of cybersecurity controls, standards and frameworks.

Together, the partnership will embed guardrails across the full system lifecycle, from design and development to testing, deployment and eventual decommissioning, while advancing cybersecurity capabilities, cross-domain knowledge-sharing, and practical frameworks to support the secure and responsible use of autonomous systems.

“As Certis accelerates the development and deployment of our robotics and AI across our operations, we are cognisant that the power of these technologies is only as strong as the security that protects them,” Mr Alex Ooi, Chief Information Security Officer of Certis, said.

“In this new era of industrialised AI, cybersecurity is no longer a peripheral function, but a critical enabler of our future. For Certis, securing our autonomous systems means more than just protecting data; it means ensuring the operational integrity and safety of the physical environments we are trusted to guard. By embedding rigorous cyber-resilience into every tech, robot and algorithm we deploy, we are building a future where innovation and absolute trust coexist seamlessly in this partnership,’ Mr Ooi added.

Key areas of focus in the MOU include

• Developing ethical, safety-first approaches for AI-driven robotics, supported by shared standards across data handling, model training and real-world operations
• Embedding security and risk management by design across the system lifecycle, including threat identification, risk assessment and safeguards against unauthorised access and tampering
• Implementing human-centric safety protocols and robust human-in-the-loop controls to ensure effective oversight and intervention
• Strengthening cyber-physical resilience through testing and operations, including adversarial testing of AI-driven robotic behaviours, continuous monitoring and specialised capabilities such as threat analysis, incident response and penetration testing

A joint Safety and Security Review Board will be established to oversee implementation and ensure alignment with evolving safety and ethical expectations.

“The rise of AI is raising the stakes for enterprise security. It goes beyond protecting systems to ensuring that autonomous decisions remain bounded, explainable and secure,” said Paul Tan, Executive Vice President of Government and Singapore Enterprises, Ensign InfoSecurity. “Having operationalised AI in security environments, we see firsthand how quickly autonomy can scale. The challenge is ensuring that control, governance and resilience scale with it, especially when these systems affect real-world operations and outcomes. This collaboration focuses on embedding cybersecurity into the way these systems are designed and deployed from the outset.”

The MOU signals a shift in how organisations deploying autonomous systems must think about risk, not as an IT concern to be managed downstream, but as a foundational design requirement woven into every layer of the system.

About Certis Group

Certis is an integrated operations service provider, built on decades of experience in security and critical frontline operations. We design and run security, facilities and workforce management as a single operating model, orchestrating people, systems and processes in complex, real-world environments to drive results.

Our approach is grounded in structured operational design, where processes, workflows and resources are engineered around defined outcomes. Further powered by our adoption of advanced technologies including AI and Robotics, Certis drives coordination, visibility and day-to-day execution across operations for its clients.

Headquartered in Singapore, Certis operates across key regional markets including Australia and Qatar, supported by a global team of over 25,000 employees. We are trusted by local governments and enterprises to deliver operational performance to make our world safer, smarter, and better.

For more information, please visit www.certisgroup.com.

About Ensign InfoSecurity 

Ensign InfoSecurity is Asia Pacific’s largest pure-play cybersecurity services provider and a trusted global partner, delivering end-to-end security solutions across the cyber lifecycle. Headquartered in Singapore, Ensign is recognised for deep capabilities spanning advisory and assurance, secure architecture and systems integration, threat intelligence, managed security operations, and incident response. Ensign also drives its own innovation through Ensign Labs, developing advanced proprietary solutions to address complex customer challenges. With over two decades of experience, Ensign provides resilient, intelligence-led security tailored to real business risks.

For more information, visit www.ensigninfosecurity.com 

JAKARTA, Indonesia, April 28, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Aloft Jakarta Kebon Jeruk officially introduced its newest Grand Ballroom on Friday, April 10, 2026, as part of the hotel’s commitment to delivering modern, flexible, and internationally standardized meeting and event facilities in West Jakarta.

Designed to meet the growing demands of the MICE market, the Grand Ballroom can accommodate up to 600 guests with various seating arrangements. Spanning a total area of 530 square meters, the space can be divided into two separate sections, offering flexibility for event organizers to tailor their event concepts.

The facility is further enhanced by a 508-square-meter pre-function area featuring natural daylight, creating a comfortable atmosphere for registration, coffee breaks, and networking sessions. Located on the 3rd floor, the Grand Ballroom is also supported by a private ballroom drop-off zone, a VIP room, easy lift access, and ample parking space to ensure seamless event execution.

Audrey Lim, General Manager of Aloft Jakarta Kebon Jeruk stated that the addition of the Grand Ballroom not only increases capacity but also elevates the overall quality of event services. “With the introduction of this Grand Ballroom, we aim to deliver seamless and memorable event experiences, supported by an experienced banquet team and international service standards. We are confident that this facility will become a top choice for various MICE needs in West Jakarta,” she said.

Featuring a contemporary design, the Grand Ballroom is designed to support a wide range of events, from conferences and product launches to corporate gatherings. The combination of stylish design and functionality ensures an optimal event experience.

Perfectly positioned on Jalan Panjang in Kebon Jeruk, aloft Jakarta Kebon Jeruk offers convenient access via toll roads and is close to key business and commercial districts such as Puri, Slipi, Tomang, and Senayan, making it an ideal choice for event organizers across various industries.

As part of the launch celebration, the hotel is offering special promotions through the Marriott Bonvoy Events program, providing various benefits for event planners, including double Marriott Bonvoy™ points, special offers on total billing, as well as additional perks such as complimentary room nights and welcome drinks. This program is valid for bookings until September 30, 2026, for events held until December 30, 2026.

For more information and reservations, please contact via email at calvine.vorry@aloft.com or by phone at +62 21 8789 8989, or visit www.aloftjakartakebonjeruk.com.

About Aloft Hotels®
With over 235 hotels now open in 33 countries and territories around the world, Aloft Hotels provides a forward-thinking hotel experience that helps guests enjoy the things they love while on the road. From gaming to cocktails and pet-friendly amenities, the brand offers flexibility with modern, welcoming spaces that encourage social interaction. The grab-and-go breakfast concept Re:fuel by Aloft^® includes offerings such as cold brew coffee and breakfast sandwiches, while the W xyz bar features a vibrant social scene, unique music-inspired cocktail menu and easy-to-share light bites. The brand’s pet-friendly program Arf^SM (Animals R Fun) welcomes guests’ furry friends to the hotel with special in-room pet amenities. Aloft connects people and places through local know-how and cultural nods that give guests the ultimate freedom to choose their own adventure.  For more information, visit www.alofthotels.com and follow along on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Aloft is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.  

About Marriott Bonvoy®
Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands and 10,000 global destinations, offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable locations around the world. The award-winning travel program and marketplace gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok. 

HONG KONG, April 29, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — In 2025, China’s catering industry surpassed RMB5.7 trillion in total market size, maintaining steady and healthy growth momentum. The sector has shifted its focus from scale expansion to efficiency improvement and structural optimization, entering a new stage of high-quality development. The industry’s chain store ratio climbed for six consecutive years to 25%, with food delivery penetration exceeding 30%. AI and supply chain technologies are further reshaping operational models across the sector. Amid this structural adjustment, Xiao Noodles, a leading and rapidly growing Chinese noodle restaurants operator in China, has secured a solid foothold amid industry reshuffling by focusing on operational efficiency, product quality and long-term value creation.

Rising Profitability with Robust Growth in Scale and Performance

As the “First-listed Chinese Noodle Restaurant”, Xiao Noodles (2408.HK) unveiled its inaugural financial results since its listing. During the Reporting Period, the Company posted total revenue of RMB1,622.4 million, a year-on-year increase of 40.5%. Its net profit reached RMB106.1 million, representing a year-on-year growth of 74.8%. Adjusted net profit stood at RMB135.4 million, up 111.9% year on year, reflecting a sustained improvement in profitability. By the end of 2025, the brand’s total restaurant network had expanded to 503 outlets.

Driven by the expansion of self-operated restaurants, revenue from self-operated restaurants rose by 44.9% year on year from RMB1.00 billion in 2024 to RMB1.45 billion in 2025. Its revenue contribution increased from 86.7% in 2024 to 89.4% in 2025, demonstrating strong resilience of the self-operated model. Meanwhile, the proportion of food delivery revenue in total revenue jumped from 15.6% in 2024 to 23.3% in 2025, emerging as a new key driver of overall revenue growth.

In terms of operational efficiency, the average daily orders per restaurant for its self-operated restaurants and franchised restaurants increased from 386 and 390 in 2024 to 406 and 412 in 2025, respectively. As of the end of 2025, Xiao Noodles had 395 self-operated restaurants and 92 franchised restaurants in 24 cities in the Chinese Mainland, 15 restaurants in Hong Kong SAR and one restaurant in Singapore, steadily advancing its national and international expansion.

While achieving steady operational growth, the Company has maintained a strong commitment to shareholder returns. The Board proposed a final dividend of RMB0.03 per H share for fiscal 2025, representing a payout ratio of over 50%. This proposal not only delivers tangible returns to shareholders for their long-term support, but also underscores the Company’s financial health, characterized by genuine profitability and robust cash flows. It further enhances investor confidence and trust in the Company’s corporate governance and brand value.

Deepening ESG Practices: Public Welfare and Talent Co-create Long-term Value

As ESG becomes a core measure of long-term corporate value for measuring a company’s long-term value, Xiao Noodles has embedded social responsibility into its business model, emergency response, and talent investment. In 2025, its public welfare donations reached RMB1.4 million.

Since 2023, the Company has launched the “Baobao Meal Charity Program”, donating RMB0.1 for every baby meal sold for public welfare purposes. As of the end of 2025, approximately 2.18 million baby meals had been sold cumulatively, generating public welfare funds of approximately RMB218,000. This has created a virtuous cycle: rising sales – a larger pool of charitable funds – stronger brand reputation. In September 2025, the Company, together with the Shanghai United Foundation, donated RMB100,000 to launch the “An Egg Donation Activity,” providing rural children with a daily egg and nutrition education courses. Through tangible actions, the initiative focuses on supporting the health and education of underprivileged children. In terms of talent and innovation investment, the Company partnered with South China University of Technology to establish the “Campus Culture Construction Fund” and the “Innovation and Entrepreneurship Public Welfare Fund.” In 2024, the Company donated RMB600,000, with a planned cumulative donation of RMB3 million over five years. An additional RMB300,000 was contributed in 2025, demonstrating its ongoing commitment to supporting education and cultivating innovative talent.

In response to emergencies, the Company has demonstrated a well-established emergency response capability. Following the fire incident at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, Hong Kong, in November 2025, the Company activated its emergency charitable response mechanism on the same day and donated HKD1 million to support the resettlement of affected residents, reflecting a robust ESG governance structure and effective authorization mechanisms.

In addition, the Company places strong emphasis on internal talent development, adhering to the philosophy that “Talent Drives Development,” and provides employees with continuous learning and career advancement opportunities. During the reporting period, the employee training coverage rate reached 100%, with a total of 40,756 training hours and an average of 19.8 hours per employee, ranking at a relatively high level within the industry. The Company has established an online training system based on digital infrastructure, offering standardized training programs and comprehensive on-boarding training for new employees to ensure consistency in professional standards and service experience. While reducing talent development costs during store expansion, this system also shortens the ramp-up period for new stores, thereby securing a stable talent supply chain to support rapid expansion.

From product-driven micro-philanthropy to targeted engagement with specific social issues, and further to long-term investment in education, rapid crisis response, and internal talent development, Xiao Noodles has established a clear path that balances “the integration of business and social welfare, as well as short-term and long-term priorities.” In doing so, the Company has also built strategic assets that enhance brand premium, reduce employee turnover, and strengthen investor confidence.

Forward-Looking Industry Positioning with Promising Growth Potential

From an industry perspective, the Chinese fast-casual dining sector is accelerating its transformation toward standardization, digitalization, and branding. Firstly, consumer demand for healthy, convenient, and cost-effective dining options continues to rise, benefiting leading players with strong supply chain capabilities and economies of scale as market concentration increases. Secondly, AI and automation technologies are reshaping cost structures, with applications such as intelligent workforce scheduling, precise inventory management, and autonomous delivery gradually being implemented, further unlocking technological dividends. In addition, ESG performance has become a key metric for assessing the long-term value of restaurant enterprises, as non-financial factors such as green stores, low-carbon operations, and community responsibility increasingly influence both capital allocation and consumer choice. Leveraging its strengths in product innovation, operational efficiency, and early-mover advantage in ESG practices, Xiao Noodles is well positioned to further expand its market share within its niche segment.

Overall, in 2025, Xiao Noodles delivered an exceptional dining experience through flavorful dishes, high-quality service, and a distinctive dining atmosphere. The Company achieved notable results in profitability, financial optimization, shareholder returns, and green practices, successfully transitioning from scale-driven expansion to quality-driven growth. Looking ahead, as industry consolidation accelerates and digitalization and ESG initiatives gain traction, the Company’s competitiveness is expected to strengthen further, driving its results of operations to a new height and injecting strong momentum into the high-quality development and green transformation of the industry.