SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 April 2026 – Naturedesign, an Italian furniture manufacturer, has been recognised at the Archiproducts Design Awards 2025 in the Furniture category for its Cinnamon glass dining table, designed by Gino Carollo. The award was announced in November 2025 as part of the tenth edition of the Archiproducts Design Awards.
Break modular sofa system by Nicoline Italia, an Italian brand represented by Colzani in Singapore
The recognition comes ahead of Salone del Mobile Milano 2026, where Naturedesign is scheduled to exhibit alongside international brands from 21 to 26 April at Fiera Milano Rho.
Archiproducts Design Awards: 2025 Edition
The Archiproducts Design Awards is an international programme recognising product design across architecture and interior categories. The 2025 edition received over 800 submissions globally, assessed by a jury comprising industry professionals across design and architecture disciplines.
Naturedesign’s Cinnamon table was selected within the Furniture category. The design features curved glass bases formed through heat processing techniques, paired with a shaped glass top with folded edges. The project reflects an approach that integrates material experimentation with functional design.
“Advanced technology and sophisticated design come together to transform glass into a fluid and harmonious element in every detail. The synergy between form and colour creates a sensory experience that engages and captivates.”
— Naturedesign, on the Cinnamon table
Additional Recognition Within Colzani’s Brand Portfolio
In the same awards cycle, Nicoline Italia, another Italian brand represented by Colzani in Singapore, also received recognition through its Break modular sofa system, which was featured among Archiproducts’ curated design selections.
The Break sofa is characterised by its modular configuration and curved form language, allowing for flexible spatial arrangements. Upholstered in fabric, the system is designed to accommodate both residential and hospitality environments, with an emphasis on adaptability and continuity of form across different layouts.
This recognition reflects the broader representation of Italian design within Colzani’s portfolio, which includes multiple brands participating in international design platforms.
Naturedesign and Material Approach
Naturedesign operates from Cerea, Verona, focusing on furniture produced using a mix of reclaimed and natural materials. Its production combines small-scale industrial processes with artisan-based techniques. The brand describes this approach through the tagline “Shaped by Nature”.
The Cinnamon table is part of the brand’s Home Collection and incorporates glass processing methods to achieve its structural and visual characteristics.
Salone del Mobile Milano 2026
Naturedesign and Nicoline will participate in the 64th edition of Salone del Mobile Milano, one of the major international trade fairs for furniture and interior design. The event will feature over 1,900 exhibitors from 32 countries, presenting developments across furniture, lighting, and interior systems.
In Singapore, Naturedesign and Nicoline Italia are represented by Colzani, a furniture showroom that curates Italian brands for residential, hospitality, and commercial applications.
Colzani provides access to selected collections from its represented brands, supporting regional clients including homeowners, designers, and developers. Its portfolio includes Naturedesign, Nicoline Italia, Potocco, and Ronda Design.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Colzani
Colzani is a Singapore-based furniture showroom representing Italian design brands. Its portfolio includes Naturedesign, Nicoline Italia, Potocco, and Ronda Design, offering curated collections for regional projects.
Naturedesign is an Italian furniture brand based in Cerea, Verona. The company focuses on the use of reclaimed materials and natural elements, combining industrial production with artisanal techniques.
Nicoline Italia is an Italian furniture manufacturer specialising in upholstered seating systems. Its collections include modular sofas designed for flexibility across residential and contract settings.
The signing an agreement between the Ministry of Finance and the Lao Bullion Bank to conduct a feasibility study on the proposed fund, also referred to as the Lao Investment Authority (LIA). (Photo by LBB)
The Government of Laos has taken steps toward establishing a national investment fund, marking a shift toward more structured management of national assets aimed at strengthening macroeconomic stability and expanding access to international financial markets.
The initiative was formalised on 2 April, with the signing an agreement between the Ministry of Finance and the Lao Bullion Bank to conduct a feasibility study on the proposed fund, also referred to as the Lao Investment Authority (LIA).
The fund is part of a broader plan to develop a national sovereign wealth framework, designed to improve the management of state assets including gold reserves, bullion, and other strategic resources.
The objective is to enhance efficiency, ensure transparency, and generate sustainable returns while supporting overall economic stability.
Officials involved in the initiative said the concept draws on international models such as sovereign wealth funds in Singapore and Malaysia, and will operate through two main mechanisms, including a Strategic Development Fund focused on managing and growing state-owned assets, and a Strategic Stabilization Fund aimed at supporting liquidity, reserves, and financial stability.
Chief Executive Officer of the Lao Bullion Bank, Chanthone Sitthixay, said that “the fund could enable the utilization of gold as a financial guarantee for bond issuance to attract foreign investment, while helping to ease debt servicing pressures and improve government liquidity”
The proposal also highlights the potential to use national assets as financial instruments to support bond issuance, attract foreign investment, and ease fiscal pressures, while strengthening confidence in the country’s financial system.
According to the implementation plan, the preparatory phase, including the development of legal and institutional frameworks, is expected to take between eight and twelve months.
HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 April 2026 – JustMarkets, a global financial brokerage platform, officially announces a major infrastructure update aimed at optimizing investment performance. In the context of a highly volatile 2026 gold market, JustMarkets focuses on providing technological solutions that help investors replace “instinctive reactions” with “professional resilience”.
A Vision for Robust Infrastructure and Investment Discipline
JustMarkets identifies gold trading as a persistent marathon, not a sprint. To realize this vision, the firm has built a technological anchor that allows users to react in split seconds, completely eliminating technical “noise” that disrupts the decision-making process.
The JustMarkets infrastructure is designed to thoroughly resolve two major barriers: lagging pace and psychological fear. Through comprehensive digitalization, the platform helps users avoid the helplessness of waiting in long queues at physical gold shops with high buy-sell price spreads.
Breakthrough Technological Upgrades in the New Version
This update brings direct improvements to the operational and analytical processes of investors:
New Trade Screen: Redesigned to provide an even faster and smoother experience, ensuring orders are matched instantly and otimized to reduce slippage
Enhanced Insights Tab: Provides in-depth market analysis capabilities, helping investors make decisions based on understanding rather than FOMO (Fear of Missing Out).
Rebuilt Notification Center: Ensures investors stay updated in real-time with gold market fluctuations that change by the second.
Cost and Performance Optimization: Maintains ultra-low spreads, allowing investors to manage capital flexibly without being eroded by hidden fees.
Automated Risk Management: Integrates automated Stop Loss and Take Profit toolsets, helping to protect assets continuously without requiring users to monitor the screen 24/7.
Mastering The Markets Through Technology
The success of an investor in 2026 is not measured by the quantity of gold they possess, but by their courage and skill in mastering the game through smart tools. This infrastructure upgrade reaffirms JustMarkets’ position as a reliable companion, helping users proactively create prosperity through technology.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About JustMarkets
JustMarkets provides a professional trading ecosystem where technology plays a key role in removing psychological barriers for investors. With fast execution speeds and optimized costs, JustMarkets helps clients focus on their most important goal: making decisions based on resilience and insight.
Risk Warning: Trading financial instruments involves significant risk and may not be suitable for all investors. Market conditions can change rapidly, and losses may exceed deposits. Ensure you understand the risks involved and trade responsibly.
National Road No. 12 upgrade in Khammouane Province reaches 11 percent completion as construction steadily progresses. 19 April 2026. (Photo: Khammouane News)
Khammouane Province is steadily advancing one of its most significant infrastructure investments, as the upgrading of National Road No. 12, from Thakhek to the Naphao International Border Checkpoint, has reached 11 percent overall construction progress.
The road spans 147.5 kilometers across Thakhek, Yommalath, and Boualapha districts, divided into two sections: 61.5 kilometers from the junction with National Road No. 13 South in Thakhek to Yommalath Junction, and the remaining 86 kilometers through to Naphao, a Laos-Vietnam border.
Construction contracts were signed in May 2025, with ground works commencing after the rainy season in late 2025, and the full project is targeted for completion within 30 months.
Financing for the project comes from Thailand’s Neighbouring Countries Economic Development Cooperation Agency (NEDA), through a low-interest loan of THB 1.742 billion (USD 54.2 million) at 1.75 percent per annum, repayable over 30 years with a seven-year grace period, alongside a grant of THB 91 million (USD 2.8 million) bringing the total package to over THB 1.833 billion (USD 57 million).
Under the agreement, at least half of all materials and equipment must be sourced from Thailand, with Thai contractors and supervisors leading implementation. The project consultant is Asian Engineering Consultants (Thailand), working alongside Lao Consulting Group (Laos).
The Naphao checkpoint’s growing importance is already evident in recent figures.
In 2025, the border recorded LAK 397.4 million (around USD 18,000) in revenue, with 310,099 crossings, 156,702 inbound and 153,397 outbound, and 213,033 vehicle movements.
National Road No. 12 is Khammouane’s key east-west corridor, connecting Northeastern Thailand westward to Vietnam’s Cha Lo checkpoint in Quang Binh Province, giving landlocked Laos access to Vietnamese seaports and southern Chinese markets. Its importance is set to grow further with the planned Laos-Vietnam Railway, also passing through Khammouane, cementing the corridor as a critical regional trade route.
170,000 TEUs handled on the Asia–Latam trade lane, positioning Rhenus among the Top 3 logistics providers in the corridor
No. 1 ranking in Far East inbound flows to Argentina, Colombia, and Paraguay, strengthening leadership in key markets
Strategic procurement hub in Hong Kong dedicated to LATAM market to support long-term growth
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 April 2026 – In a global environment marked by the acceleration of international trade, Rhenus Logistics reaffirms its position as one of the leading logistics companies in Latin America by consolidating the strategic Asia–LATAM trade lane and recording unprecedented growth during the 2024–2025 period.
Rhenus handled over 170,000 TEUs in full container load (FCL) shipments along the Far East Asia – Latin America corridor, positioning itself among the Top 3 players on this strategic tradelane. This performance reflects sustained expansion and operational execution aligned with the increasingly demanding requirements of global trade.
The impact of growth along the Asia–LATAM corridor is evident in strong results at both regional and local levels. In particular, Rhenus achieved the No. 1 ranking in Far East inbound flows to Argentina, Colombia, and Paraguay, consolidating its leadership in these key markets.
Additionally, Rhenus significantly strengthened its performance in other countries in Latin America by leveraging its local presence and operational capabilities to efficiently meet the needs of international trade. This positioning reinforces Rhenus as a key player in the Far East–Latin America corridor, combining scale, local expertise, and a robust operational network to support its customers’ growth across the region.
These results are especially relevant in a context where Asian companies are expected to continue increasing exports to Latin America. According to estimates from Americas Market Intelligence, trade volume between China and Latin America could reach US$700 billion by 2035, driving growing demand for logistics providers with increasingly robust, efficient capabilities aligned with Asian market standards.
Strategic Support from Asia
As part of its strategy to further strengthen this corridor, Rhenus operates a procurement center in Hong Kong, exclusively dedicated to serving the Latin American market. This presence in one of the company’s main commercial hubs ensures efficient origin management, optimized coordination with Asian suppliers, and direct connectivity between regional operations and global markets.
The Hong Kong center acts as a strategic bridge between Asia and Latin America, providing greater supply chain visibility, agility, and control, while enhancing Rhenus’ ability to respond to the increasing demands of global trade.
A Long-Term Strategic Commitment
The sustained growth we are achieving in Latin America confirms that the Asia–LATAM corridor is a strategic pillar for Rhenus in the region. These results reflect not only our local execution capabilities, but also a long-term vision focused on anticipating global market needs and actively supporting the development of local economies across the region,” said Fadelly Duque, Head of Sales LATAM, Rhenus Logistics.
With a strategy focused on efficiency, operational reliability, and regional strengthening, Rhenus Logistics continues to position itself as a key logistics partner for trade between Asia and Latin America, supporting the evolution of supply chains and the growth of commercial exchange between both regions. Hashtag: #Rhenus
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Rhenus
The Rhenus Group is one of the leading logistics specialists with global business operations and annual turnover amounting to EUR 8.2 billion. 39,000 employees work at 1,300 business sites in more than 70 countries and develop innovative solutions along the complete supply chain. Whether providing transport, warehousing, customs clearance or value-added services, the family-owned business pools its operations in various business units where the needs of customers are the major focus at all times.
HAIKOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 April 2026 – On April 15, the Sanya International Yacht Sub-Venue of the 6th China International Consumer Products Expo (CICPE) officially kicked off. The event has brought together brands from leading global yacht-producing countries, such as France, Italy, the United Kingdom, Germany, and the United States. Over 90 yacht manufacturers and supporting companies have participated in the event, with 200 yachts of various types being showcased at the exhibition.
The Sanya International Yacht Sub-Venue of the 6th China International Consumer Products Expo kicks off with multiple yachts making their global debut.
As a core featured exhibition area of the CICPE, the Sanya International Yacht Sub-Venue covers a total exhibition area of over 160,000 square meters, including a sprawling 148,800-square-meter on-water section. The exhibition is divided into six specialized sections, covering green vessel innovation, China debuts of international brands, and intelligent water sports equipment, among others. While top-tier global luxury yacht brands remain a major draw, the industry’s most compelling highlights this year lie elsewhere: the rapid rise of domestic yacht manufacturing, the commercial deployment of green new energy technologies, and the growing integration of yachting into everyday lifestyle.
International luxury yacht brands made a strong showing at the event, with renowned names like France’s Lagoon, Italy’s Azimut, the United Kingdom’s Sunseeker, Canada’s Bombardier, Germany’s Bavaria, and the United States’ Sea Ray unveiling their latest models. Five superyachts, each exceeding 80 feet in length, docked at the marina, becoming a highlight of the event.
China’s sustained release of high-end leisure consumption potential has made it a core growth driver for the global yachting industry. At the exhibition, 24 products made their China debut, including the United Kingdom’s Princess S72, as well as yachts from international brands like Germany’s Bavaria and Poland’s Delphia. Notably, a purchase intent for the Princess S72 was reached immediately following its debut.
Meanwhile, Chinese yacht manufacturers are stepping up their game, with nine yachts making their global debuts. These new models span a diverse range of categories, including small- and medium-sized luxury yachts, electric leisure vessels, and fishing vessels. Featuring designs tailored to Chinese consumer preferences and competitively priced, they have drawn significant attention on the show floor.
Green and low-carbon development stands as a central theme of this year’s exhibition. A dedicated new energy yacht zone showcases eco-friendly vessels, including pure electric, hybrid, and hydrogen-powered yachts. Among these, electric yachts powered by lithium batteries achieve zero-emission navigation. Their noise levels and operating costs are significantly lower than those of traditional fuel-powered yachts, perfectly aligning with the global shift toward low-carbon consumption.
Furthermore, the exhibition strives to shatter the long-held stereotype of yachts as an exclusive, high-end niche. To that end, it has created immersive consumption scenarios that integrate yachting with gourmet food, lure fishing, and camping. Services such as yacht license consultations and second-hand yacht trading are also being offered, all aimed at making water-based leisure more accessible to the public.
Sanya, the host city of the exhibition and known as the “City of a Thousand Yachts,” is actively building itself into the “Asia-Pacific Yachting Capital.” The city has already completed five yacht marinas, and last year hit a record high of 225,600 yacht departures. Concurrently, the Sanya Central Business District (CBD) has attracted 124 companies along the yacht industry chain, covering full-chain services such as design and R&D, manufacturing and maintenance, berth operations, and high-end supporting facilities.
Leveraging its exceptional marine resources and the policy backing of the Hainan Free Trade Port, Sanya is accelerating the construction of an ecosystem that integrates yacht display and trading, consumption experiences, and industrial agglomeration. This, in turn, provides a vital platform for global yacht brands to expand their presence in the Chinese market.
Hashtag: #CICPE
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 April 2026 – The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the wholly owned lodging business unit of CapitaLand Investment (CLI), recorded a landmark year of signings in Southeast Asia in 2025, adding more than 7,300 units across the region. This represents a 55% increase over the 4,700 units signed in 2024 and marks Ascott’s strongest signing performance in Southeast Asia to date.
Located on the shores of West Lake in Hanoi’s upscale Tay Ho District, Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi is poised to become Ascott’s largest full service MICE hotel and a landmark events and hospitality destination in Vietnam’s capital. Complementing the recently launched international convention centre spanning 13 event venues, the hotel is set to fully open with 1,165 rooms, 10 food & beverage concepts and a spa by 2027.
The momentum placed Ascott among the top three hospitality companies in Southeast Asia by new signings in 2025, according to Horwath HTL. Building on this performance, Ascott has an established regional portfolio comprising over 200 operational properties and a pipeline of about 150 properties across Southeast Asia, spanning multiple typologies and markets. With more than 25 new properties expected to open within the next 12 months, the pipeline reflects strong owner confidence in Ascott’s brands and its proven ability to convert signings into operational properties at scale.
Ascott’s expansion is underpinned by Southeast Asia’s structurally resilient tourism fundamentals. Following the region’s near-complete post-pandemic recovery in 2025, travel momentum is increasingly driven by intra-ASEAN demand, rising visitor spending and improving regional connectivity[1]. At the same time, the region’s hospitality market remains highly fragmented, with independent and unbranded properties accounting for most hotel supply. As more owners look to established international operators for brand strength, distribution reach and revenue capabilities, Southeast Asia continues to present a strong pipeline for Ascott’s growth across signings and conversions.
Ms Serena Lim, Chief Growth Officer, Ascott, said: “Southeast Asia continues to be one of the most dynamic hospitality markets in the world and Ascott is well positioned to capture the opportunity. With over four decades in our home base, we have established deep market expertise and a trusted brand presence, positioning us for our next phase of growth. Our expansion is intentional and owner‑led, anchored by long‑term partnerships with owners who value our flex‑hybrid model and its ability to deliver resilient outcomes. Supported by our multi‑typology brand strategy, we have moved beyond our serviced residence heritage to unlock opportunities across a broader range of lodging types. The depth of owner interest and track record across Southeast Asia gives us confidence in both our pipeline and our ability to execute this expansion.”
Ms Wong Kar Ling, Chief Strategy Officer and Managing Director, Southeast Asia, Ascott, said: “The upcoming wave of openings reinforces Southeast Asia’s role as both a core growth engine and a showcase for Ascott’s multi-typology brand strategy. As we scale across cities and resort destinations, disciplined execution remains our focus – from efficient conversions to reliable delivery on the ground. The strength of our local teams has been instrumental in translating strategy into outcomes, turning pipeline into reality with the speed and precision our owners and guests expect. We are particularly excited about our upcoming resort openings across the region, which will meaningfully expand our leisure offerings and open up new destinations for Ascott Star Rewards members to explore and enjoy their rewards.”
Ascott’s SEA portfolio updates were shared at a media briefing at Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi in Vietnam, alongside the unveiling of the property’s MICE facilities. Pictured (left to right): Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer; Serena Lim, Chief Growth Officer; Kevin Goh, Chief Executive Officer; and, Wong Kar Ling, Chief Strategy Officer and Managing Director, Southeast Asia.
Growing into New Cities and Markets Ascott’s development pipeline will extend its footprint into around 20 new cities across Southeast Asia, taking the company beyond established gateway markets and deeper into emerging leisure and business destinations. New cities entering the Ascott portfolio include Phu Quoc and Nha Trang in Vietnam; Phuket and Hat Yai in Thailand; Labuan Bajo and Medan in Indonesia; Davao and Biñan in the Philippines; and Johor Bahru and Langkawi in Malaysia.
Driving Speed to Market through Conversions and Brownfields About 30% of the development pipeline in Southeast Asia will be delivered through conversions, reflecting Ascott’s capability to reposition existing assets under its brands and accelerate market entry. Among the notable examples are three Bayview-branded properties in Penang and Langkawi owned by Oriental Holdings, which will be rebranded as Ascott Batu Ferringhi Penang, Oakwood Georgetown Penang and FOX Hotel Langkawi by 2028. Conversion projects expected to open within approximately one year of signing include Citadines Mitra Bandung, Oakwood Pandanaran Semarang and Fox Hotel Nagoya Batam.
Alongside new-build developments, conversions enable Ascott to meet demand in markets where opportunities exist but greenfield supply pipelines are constrained. This dual-track approach strengthens Ascott’s ability to scale efficiently across diverse markets and property types.
Expanding Across Multiple Lodging Types The development pipeline across Southeast Asia reflects the full breadth of Ascott’s multi‑typology brand strategy, anchored by its serviced residence heritage and extending across hotels, resorts, social living properties and branded residences. It spans brands including Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection and The Unlimited Collection. This range of brands and formats positions Southeast Asia as a showcase for Ascott’s ability to address demand across different markets, guest segments and destination types.
Resort properties represent one of the most significant areas of growth within this pipeline. Upcoming resort openings across Vietnam, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia and Thailand will complement Ascott’s established urban portfolio and strengthen its balance across business and leisure travel segments.
Highlights of Upcoming Openings More than 25 properties from Ascott’s pipeline are expected to open within the next 12 months. These near‑term openings follow the launches of Somerset Valero Makati in the Philippines and Oakwood Cameron Highlands in Malaysia earlier this year, and form part of a broader rollout across Southeast Asia.
Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi is poised to become Ascott’s largest full‑service MICE hotel and a landmark events and hospitality destination in Vietnam’s capital. Located on the shores of West Lake in Hanoi’s upscale Tay Ho District, the property features an international convention centre that is already operational, offering 13 flexible event spaces including Hanoi’s largest pillarless hotel grand ballroom with capacity for up to 2,000 guests. When fully open in 2027, the property will also offer 1,165 hotel rooms and serviced apartments as well as premium wellness facilities including a spa, gym, indoor and outdoor swimming pools and yoga rooms, alongside 10 dining concepts and a sky bar overlooking the lake. Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi combines long-stay living, hotel accommodation and world-class MICE facilities under one roof, firmly establishing Ascott’s credentials in Vietnam’s fast-growing meetings and events market.
Set to establish its credentials in Vietnam’s fast-growing meetings and events market, Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi offers 13 flexible event spaces including Hanoi’s largest pillarless hotel grand ballroom with capacity for up to 2,000 guests.
Lasong Hotel & Villas Sam Son by The Unlimited Collection Set to complete its full opening on 24 April 2026, Lasong Hotel & Villas Sam Son by The Unlimited Collection will mark the debut of a landmark wellness resort on Vietnam’s northern coast. Located at the confluence of the Ma River and Sam Son Beach in Thanh Hoa Province, the property brings together 68 boutique hotel rooms and 20 private pool villas already in operation since mid-2025, with the newly opening 190-room Sky Vista tower completing the full resort experience. Sky Vista is anchored by an authentic Korean jjimjilbang, four-season pool, plant-based dining and a full spa, drawing on Sam Son’s coastal heritage and Vietnamese-Korean wellness traditions to deliver a deeply local and distinctive stay.
HARRIS Resort Cam Ranh Slated to open progressively from 4Q 2026, HARRIS Resort Cam Ranh marks the debut of the HARRIS brand in Vietnam and signals the start of a wave of Ascott resort openings along the country’s coastline. The 693-unit all-in-one resort is located along Long Beach in Cam Ranh, one of Vietnam’s fastest-growing leisure and aviation hubs. It is designed for families and leisure travellers, featuring specialty dining, a beach club, recreational facilities and dedicated meeting spaces.
Together, Lasong and HARRIS Resort Cam Ranh mark the beginning of Ascott’s significant resort push across Southeast Asia through 2028. In Vietnam, this will be followed by Citadines Selavia Phu Quoc in 2027 and Somerset Nha Trang in 2028.
Beyond Vietnam, the resort pipeline extends across multiple markets. Scheduled to open in 2027 are Ascott Abov Patong Phuket Resort in Thailand, lyf Resort Labuan Bajo and Oakwood Jimbaran Villas and ResidencesBali in Indonesia, as well as Balai Dajao by Preference in Siargao, the Philippines. In 2028, this will be followed by Ascott Batu Ferringhi Penang in Malaysia, Citadines Mactan Cebu Resort in the Philippines and Oakwood Premier Berawa Beach Bali in Indonesia, expanding the range of leisure destinations available to Ascott Star Rewards members across the region.
1926 Heritage Hotel Penang by The Unlimited Collection Opening in 2026 to coincide with its centenary, the 78-room 1926 Heritage Hotel Penang by The Unlimited Collection breathes new life into one of George Town’s most storied properties. Located on Burma Road within Penang’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed enclave, the hotel has been sensitively restored to preserve its original Anglo-Malay architectural character while delivering a full-service experience – including a swimming pool, gym, spa and wellness centre, hair salon, bar and bistro, restaurant, and flexible event spaces comprising a function hall and meeting room. The property exemplifies The Unlimited Collection’s philosophy of celebrating the cultural soul of a destination, offering guests an immersive gateway to Penang’s rich heritage and living culture. The reopening has already captured international attention, with The New York Times and Bloomberg highlighting the hotel in their respective features on Penang as a must‑visit destination for 2026.
lyf Chinatown Singapore Slated to open in July 2026, lyf Chinatown Singapore exemplifies the lyf brand’s experience-led approach to social living, set against one of Singapore’s most historically significant precincts. The property is housed within a newly developed building linked to four pre-war conservation shophouses on Pagoda Street, within the Jamae Chulia Heritage site. Social spaces – including a coworking lounge, social kitchen, rooftop swimming pool and outdoor courtyard – are designed to foster community and connection among the next-generation of travellers, digital nomads and creatives. The property will also programme cultural experiences rooted in the local neighbourhood, reinforcing the lyf brand’s philosophy of integrating authentic local culture into the social living experience.
Somerset Clarke Quay Singapore Somerset Clarke Quay Singapore forms part of CanningHill Piers, a landmark integrated development on River Valley Road. The 192-unit serviced residence occupies a prime riverfront address in the heart of the Clarke Quay day-to-night lifestyle precinct, with direct connectivity to Fort Canning MRT station and dual frontages facing the Singapore River and Fort Canning Hill. Rooted in biophilic design and thoughtful comfort, the property is conceived as a nature-inspired sanctuary where families can come together, with spaces crafted for connection, ease and everyday living – making it one of the most distinctive Somerset addresses in the region.
Ascott Ortigas Manila Expected to open in 2026, Ascott Ortigas Manila marks the debut of the flagship Ascott brand in the Ortigas Central Business District, one of Metro Manila’s most dynamic commercial hubs. A conversion of the well-established Joy-Nostalg Hotel & Suites Manila, the 229-unit property closed in January 2026 for a comprehensive renovation of its rooms, public spaces and food and beverage offerings. Located directly across from the Asian Development Bank headquarters, it is ideally positioned to serve corporate, long-stay and leisure travellers, and will offer dining, a spa, fitness centre and event spaces upon reopening.
[1] Source: ASEAN Tourism Outlook 2025, ASEAN Secretariat and ERIA, October 2025.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
The Ascott Limited
The Ascott Limited (Ascott) is driven by a vision to be the preferred hospitality company, enriching global living with heartfelt experiences. With a portfolio of more than 1,000 properties spanning over 230 cities across more than 40 countries, Ascott’s presence spans Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the USA. Its diverse collection of award-winning brands includes Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection, The Unlimited Collection, Fox, Harris, POP!, Preference, Quest, Vertu and Yello.
Ascott specialises in managing and franchising a wide range of lodging options, including serviced residences, hotels, resorts, social living properties and branded residences, catering to the varying needs and preferences of global travellers. Through the Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) loyalty programme, members enjoy exclusive privileges and curated experiences, enhancing every aspect of their travel journey.
As a wholly owned business unit of CapitaLand Investment Limited, Ascott generates fee-related revenue by leveraging its expertise in both lodging management and investment management. It also drives the expansion of funds under management by growing its sponsored CapitaLand Ascott Trust and private funds.
Headquartered and listed in Singapore in 2021, CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) is a leading global real asset manager with a strong Asia foothold. As at 31 December 2025, CLI had S$125 billion of funds under management. CLI holds stakes in eight listed real estate investment trusts and business trusts and a suite of private real asset vehicles that invest in demographics, disruption and digitalisation-themed strategies. Its diversified real asset classes include retail, office, lodging, industrial, logistics, business parks, wellness, self-storage, data centres and credit.
CLI aims to scale its fund management, lodging management and commercial management businesses globally and maintain effective capital management. As the investment management arm of CapitaLand Group, CLI has access to the development capabilities of and pipeline investment opportunities from CapitaLand Group’s development arm.
CLI is committed to growing in a responsible manner, delivering long-term economic value and contributing to the environmental and social well-being of its communities.
The two-day programme brought over 300 Chelsea supporters and Ascott Star Rewards members together for immersive fan experiences, including the Night with the Blues event at Hanoi’s newest integrated events and hospitality destination
LONDON/HANOI/SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 April 2026 – The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the Official Hotels Partner of Chelsea Football Club, has concluded its fourth edition of The Famous CFC, Chelsea’s international fan engagement programme. The Hanoi showcase marked the programme’s Vietnam debut and featured Chelsea legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, a two-time Premier League Golden Boot winner. Held across Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi, Oakwood Residence Hanoi and Somerset West Point Hanoi on 17 and 18 April 2026, the two-day programme brought together more than 300 fans and Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) members for a curated series of fan engagements, including a fireside chat, an exclusive member meet-and-greet, and the newly introduced Night with the Blues event.
A football legend at a legendary venue: The Famous CFC Hanoi concluded on 18 April 2026 with over 350 Chelsea fans and ASR members gathering at the Ho Tay Ballroom at Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi for A Night with the Blues. Chelsea legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink headlined an evening of fan games, chants and a dinner prepared by the hotel’s culinary team, making it a night that brought the spirit of Chelsea Football Club alive in the heart of Hanoi. Pictured in image: Chelsea legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink (centre) with Ms Tan Bee Leng (left), Ascott’s Chief Commercial Officer, and dinner attendees.
The Hanoi edition marked two notable milestones. For Hasselbaink, it was his first official club visit to Vietnam, a moment long anticipated by the country’s Blues community. For Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi, it signalled the official debut of its international convention centre: a purpose-built event destination anchored by the Ho Tay Ballroom – the largest pillarless ballroom in Hanoi – one of 13 meeting venues. The convention centre is part of the 1,165-room integrated property scheduled to open fully later this year.
Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink said: “Spending the weekend with so many Chelsea fans in Hanoi was an amazing experience. You could really feel the passion for the club, and Ascott created an environment that brought fans closer to the Chelsea spirit. Moments like these help strengthen the connection between the club and its supporters.”
John Rogers, Head of Partnerships at Chelsea Football Club, said: “Hanoi showed exactly what The Famous CFC, presented by Ascott, is all about. Our passionate fans brought great energy to the event and made it an unforgettable experience. The turnout and engagement from Chelsea supporters and Ascott Star Rewards members further proves the incredible connection we share with our established fanbase across Southeast Asia. We’re proud of what we’ve built through our partnership with Ascott, and excited to take it even further in the seasons ahead.”
Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer, Ascott, said: “Every edition of The Famous CFC is designed to introduce new experiences, and Hanoi was no exception. Southeast Asia is home to more than 30% of Ascott’s global portfolio, with Vietnam among our most active markets for new openings. This edition brought together two firsts – Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink’s inaugural official club visit to Vietnam, and the official debut of Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi‘s international convention centre – creating a distinctive experience for Chelsea fans and Ascott Star Rewards members alike.”
“The Famous CFC reflects how Ascott’s partnership with Chelsea translated into real value for our members and guests. Ascott Star Rewards is built on our ‘Stay Rewarded’ promise, and through this partnership, we continue to extend that promise beyond stays into curated experiences – from close interactions with club legends to early access to key properties across our portfolio,” she added.
Highlights from The Famous CFC Hanoi The two-day programme kickstarted on Friday, 17 April, when Hasselbaink joined a coaching session for young beneficiaries of the Centre for Supporting Community Development Initiatives (SCDI), a Hanoi-based non-profit organisation supporting the social inclusion of vulnerable communities. During the session, Hasselbaink shared football tips and encouraged the participants, drawing on personal lessons from his journey as a professional player. The activity reflected The Famous CFC’s focus on engaging local fan communities and aligned with Ascott’s ongoing commitment to community engagement through its sustainability programme, Ascott CARES.
Following the community initiative, Hasselbaink visited Oakwood Residence Hanoi to experience the brand’s signature warmth and comfort food philosophy before participating in an intimate fireside chat at Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi. There, he recounted some of his fondest memories as one of Chelsea’s most celebrated forwards, including defining goals, team culture and lessons that have remained with him beyond his playing years. The session brought together a Chelsea legend with Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi, a world-class venue designed to host landmark international events.
On the second day on Saturday, 18 April, Hasselbaink took time to explore the city before joining Ascott Star Rewards members for an exclusive meet-and-greet at Somerset West Point Hanoi. In keeping with Somerset’s emphasis on shared experiences, the session provided members with the opportunity to engage directly with the Chelsea legend through a Q&A segment and photography opportunities.
The programme culminated with Night with the Blues at Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi‘s Ho Tay Ballroom, which was transformed for the occasion into a football-themed event space that brought the energy of London’s Stamford Bridge right to the heart of Hanoi. For the more than 300 fans, some of whom had travelled in from across the region, the electrifying matchday atmosphere arrived well before kick-off. The event combined Ascott’s signature hospitality, fan activations and extended engagement with Hasselbaink, building to a crescendo as Chelsea prepared to face Manchester United later that evening.
Said Supachok Pornsri, a Chelsea fan and ASR member who travelled from Bangkok, Thailand to attend The Famous CFC in Hanoi: “Meeting Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink in person was a dream come true. As a devoted Chelsea fan, getting up close with a club legend is something I will not forget. Having attended past editions of The Famous CFC in Bangkok and Jakarta, this Hanoi edition once again showed how seamlessly Ascott brings together world-class hospitality with fans’ passion for Chelsea. That is what makes being an ASR member truly worthwhile. I hope ASR continues to offer experiences like this, and Ascott will definitely be my first choice for future travels.”
For the latest updates on exclusive offers from Ascott’s partnership with Chelsea, including the upcoming editions of The Famous CFC, please visit https://www.discoverasr.com/en/ascott-chelseafc.
About Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) offers members a range of exclusive privileges designed to elevate every aspect of their travel experience. From priority welcome services and access to airport lounges, to enhanced stay benefits such as car rental privileges, bonus ASR points, airline miles and travel vouchers, ASR ensures a seamless, start-to-finish experience. Beyond exceptional stays, ASR members also enjoy access to Ascott Privilege Signatures, which unlocks invitations to prestigious global events, including Premier League football matches, renowned tennis tournaments, and elite gastronomy and lifestyle experiences. To become an ASR member, sign up today at https://www.discoverasr.com/en/sign-up.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
The Ascott Limited
The Ascott Limited (Ascott) is driven by a vision to be the preferred hospitality company, enriching global living with heartfelt experiences. With a portfolio of more than 1,000 properties spanning over 230 cities across more than 40 countries, Ascott’s presence spans Asia Pacific, Central Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa and the USA. Its diverse collection of award-winning brands includes Ascott, Citadines, lyf, Oakwood, Somerset, The Crest Collection, The Unlimited Collection, Fox, Harris, POP!, Preference, Quest, Vertu and Yello.
Ascott specialises in managing and franchising a wide range of lodging options, including serviced residences, hotels, resorts, social living properties and branded residences, catering to the varying needs and preferences of global travellers. Through the Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) loyalty programme, members enjoy exclusive privileges and curated experiences, enhancing every aspect of their travel journey.
As a wholly owned business unit of CapitaLand Investment Limited, Ascott generates fee-related revenue by leveraging its expertise in both lodging management and investment management. It also drives the expansion of funds under management by growing its sponsored CapitaLand Ascott Trust and private funds.
Headquartered and listed in Singapore in 2021, CapitaLand Investment Limited (CLI) is a leading global real asset manager with a strong Asia foothold. As at 31 December 2025, CLI had S$125 billion of funds under management. CLI holds stakes in eight listed real estate investment trusts and business trusts and a suite of private real asset vehicles that invest in demographics, disruption and digitalisation-themed strategies. Its diversified real asset classes include retail, office, lodging, industrial, logistics, business parks, wellness, self-storage, data centres and credit.
CLI aims to scale its fund management, commercial management and lodging management businesses globally and maintain effective capital management. As the investment management arm of CapitaLand Group, CLI has access to the development capabilities of and pipeline investment opportunities from CapitaLand Group’s development arm.
CLI is committed to growing in a responsible manner, delivering long-term economic value and contributing to the environmental and social well-being of its communities.
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