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ShopBack and Mastercard Partner to Deliver Exclusive Cashback Rewards for Hong Kong Online Shoppers


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 June 2025 – ShopBack, Asia’s leading cashback shopping platform, has announced a strategic partnership with Mastercard to introduce an exclusive cashback promotion, empowering Hong Kong shoppers with enhanced savings when they link their eligible Mastercard cards and purchase at selected merchants via the ShopBack app.

ShopBack collaborates with Mastercard to unveil an exclusive cashback promotion, offering shoppers a seamless rewards experience and enhanced savings.
ShopBack collaborates with Mastercard to unveil an exclusive cashback promotion, offering shoppers a seamless rewards experience and enhanced savings.

This collaboration between ShopBack and Mastercard reinforces ShopBack’s commitment to maximizing financial benefits for users while providing an integrated and hassle-free shopping experience, upholding ShopBack’s philosophy: “If it’s not a steal, it’s not a ShopBack Deal.” From now until June 30, 2025, eligible Mastercard cardholders in Hong Kong can unlock an additional 5% cashback when shopping at renowned brands such as UNIQLO, FARFETCH, Nike, Selfridges, NET-A-PORTER and more via the ShopBack app. Furthermore, Mastercard cardholders are now automatically enrolled in the 2025 Mastercard Golden Rewards Lucky Draw Campaign[1], earning one entry for every eligible transaction made until June 30, 2025 and stand a chance to win exciting prizes in spending credit. This exclusive promotion is designed to offer users effortless rewards, with no minimum spend and no complex service terms required[2].

Once users complete qualifying purchases, cashback will be automatically credited to their ShopBack accounts upon merchant confirmation, with instant redemption options available through FPS or as cash dollars. Whether booking hotels and flights for their next getaway, ordering their favorite takeout, or shopping online, shoppers can earn cashback effortlessly on all these purchases, maximizing their rewards while enjoying the convenience of streamlined spending.

Mr. Arthur Wan, General Manager of Hong Kong & Taiwan at ShopBack, stated: “Our partnership with Mastercard marks an exciting milestone for ShopBack as we continue to create innovative ways to reward our users. With this simple and seamless promotion, we’re making online shopping even more enjoyable while strengthening our commitment to delivering value to Mastercard cardholders and our customers. We look forward to growing together with Mastercard in the years ahead.”

The strategic collaboration between ShopBack and Mastercard marks a significant milestone in digital rewards innovation, offering shoppers cashback benefits while driving customer engagement, loyalty, and transaction growth. Beyond immediate perks, this partnership establishes a sustainable rewards ecosystem, positioning ShopBack as Asia’s leading cashback platform and Mastercard as a preferred payment partner for value-driven shopping experiences. With market expansion, fintech innovation, and future-focused incentives, this alliance paves the way for long-term success in the evolving e-commerce landscape.


[1] Monthly Lucky Draw Trade Promotion Competition Licence: 59819-21; Quarter Lucky Draw Trade Promotion Competition Licence: 59816-8.

[2] For full details on terms and conditions (T&Cs), please visit: Mastercard on ShopBack only for ShopBack app.

Hashtag: #ShopBack

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

About ShopBack

ShopBack is Asia’s leading cashback platform, offering users an easy and seamless way to earn cashback on purchases. Simply shopping through ShopBack’s app allows users to receive cashback directly into their ShopBack account upon completing their orders and merchant confirmation. Cashback withdrawals are seamlessly processed via FPS or transferred to cash dollars, ensuring instant accessibility for travel bookings, dining experiences, and shopping purchases, allowing users to enjoy their rewards effortlessly and smoothly.

For further details and to start earning cashback today, visit:

Galaxy Macau Celebrates Standout Industry Recognition with 20 Award Wins at Tatler Best Awards 2025 Hong Kong and Macau


MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 June 2025 – Galaxy Macau™ (“Galaxy Macau”) the world-class luxury resort, is proud to celebrate a total of 20 of its restaurants, bars, and hotels at Galaxy Macau and StarWorld Hotel being recognised at the Tatler Best Hong Kong and Macau Awards 2025. Making it the most awarded luxury resort in Macau, these remarkable achievements highlight Galaxy Macau’s unwavering dedication to pursuing excellence. This recognition solidifies the city’s homegrown talent and Galaxy Macau as a leader in the global hospitality industry, reaffirming Macau as a world-class destination.

Galaxy Macau garnered a total of 20 prestigious accolades at the Tatler Best Hong Kong and Macau Awards 2025.
Galaxy Macau garnered a total of 20 prestigious accolades at the Tatler Best Hong Kong and Macau Awards 2025.

A Stellar Array of Eight Best-in-Class Accolades by Tatler

Among all 200 carefully judged venues across Hong Kong and Macau, a stellar line-up of establishments and individuals at Galaxy Macau were recognized as Tatler Best-in-Class – Macau, for their dedication to redefining excellence. Raffles at Galaxy Macau, named “Best New Hotel”, was also home to several award-winning establishments – Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa, awarded the coveted “Best New Restaurant” in its first year of operation; with Teppanyaki Shou recognized for “Best Design Restaurant”; and Raffles Lounge & Terrace scooping the “Best Design Bar” award. Among all, Long Bar garnered twin Best-in-Class accolades, being credited in the Tatler Best 20 Bars – Macau, as “Best New Bar”, in parallel, winning “Rising Star” of Best-in-Class Bars, as awarded to Long Bar’s Chief Mixologist and Bar Manager, Nokoy Mak for being an exemplar of homegrown talent.

Raffles at Galaxy Macau was named the “Best New Hotel (Macau)” in the Tatler Best Awards 2025.
Raffles at Galaxy Macau was named the “Best New Hotel (Macau)” in the Tatler Best Awards 2025.
Long Bar garnered two Best-in-Class accolades: in addition to being listed on the Tatler Best 20 Bars – Macau, as “Best New Bar”; Long Bar’s Chief Mixologist and Bar Manager, Nokoy Mak (left to right), took home the “Rising Star” award.
Long Bar garnered two Best-in-Class accolades: in addition to being listed on the Tatler Best 20 Bars – Macau, as “Best New Bar”; Long Bar’s Chief Mixologist and Bar Manager, Nokoy Mak (left to right), took home the “Rising Star” award.

Additional awards recognition was attributed to The Macallan Whisky Bar & Lounge, named “Best Service Bar” for curating extraordinary experiences for guests. Meanwhile, Yam Lok Hin, Executive Pastry Chef of StarWorld Hotel, Galaxy Macau, and Broadway Macau, was crowned the “Best Pastry Chef” for his ground-breaking innovations and pastry-making flair.

A Total of 12 Proprietary Restaurants and Bars Topped the Tatler Best 20 List

Five restaurants across Galaxy Macau and StarWorld Hotel were recognized as the Tatler Best 20 Restaurants – Macau. This distinguished list includes 8½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana, Feng Wei Ju, Saffron, Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa and Teppanyaki Shou. A total of seven bars were also included in the list of Tatler Best 20 Bars – Macau, including 8 ½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana, Andaz Bar, Long Bar, Raffles Lounge & Terrace, The Macallan Whisky Bar & Lounge, The Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge and the vibrant Goa Nights at Broadway Food Street.

After 40 years as the city’s definitive dining authority, the Tatler Dining Awards have evolved into Tatler Best, expanding in recognition of the city’s top restaurants, bars and, for the first time, hotels. Winners are selected through a rigorous evaluation process involving over 200 reviews conducted by a panel of experts and tastemakers. Tatler Best Hong Kong & Macau aims to spotlight the people and places that continue to redefine the standards of excellence.

For more information and news about Galaxy Macau, please visit www.galaxymacau.com.

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

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

ABOUT GALAXY MACAU INTEGRATED RESORT

Galaxy Macau™, The World-class Luxury Integrated Resort delivers the “Most Spectacular Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World”. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Eight award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel™, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott Hotel Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Broadway Hotel, Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Andaz Macau. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575-meters, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-meters high and 150-meters pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz- Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate.

As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies; Galaxy Promenade is the hottest shopping destination featuring the latest in fashion and curated experiences in Macau. Spanning over 100,000-square-meter, luxury flagship stores, lifestyle boutiques and our selection of labels are among the more than 200 world-renowned brands for a world-class shopping journey; Galaxy Cinemas, immersive thrills and luxurious comfort go hand in hand at Galaxy Cinemas. All 10 theaters are equipped with the latest audio-visual technology; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind deluxe lounge that evokes the glitz and glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with entertainment in luxury and style; and Foot Hub presents the traditional art of reflexology to make you feel more relaxed and revitalized. For Authentic Macau Flavours & Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at its Broadway Food Street. The 2,500-seat Broadway Theatre plays host to world-class entertainers and a diverse array of cultural events. Meeting, incentive and banquet groups are also well looked after with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and a professional service staff.

Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) is the latest addition to the Group’s ever-expanding integrated resort precinct and will usher in a new era for the MICE industry in Macau. GICC is a world- class event venue featuring 40,000-square-meter of total flexible MICE, and a 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.

For more details, please visit and

Over 204 Deaths, One Survivor Confirmed in Air India Ahmedabad-London Plane Crash

Rescue officials work at the site where Air India flight 171 crashed in a residential area near the airport in Ahmedabad on June 12, 2025. The London-bound passenger plane crashed on June 12 in India's western city of Ahmedabad with 242 on board, aviation officials said in what the airline called a "tragic accident". (Photo by Sam PANTHAKY / AFP)

LATEST UPDATE 12 June at 10:46 PM

By The Laotian Times and AFP

Air India confirms London-bound flight AI171 crashed shortly after take-off from Ahmedabad, with 242 people on board.

What We Know So Far:

  • Air India Flight AI171 crashed just after take-off from Ahmedabad at 13:39 IST on 12 June. The flight was en route to London Gatwick Airport.

  • There were 242 people on board, including 169 Indian, 53 British, 7 Portuguese, and 1 Canadian nationals.

  • 204 deaths and one survivor confirmed.
  • Flightradar24 received the final signal from the aircraft at 625 feet shortly after take-off.

  • The aircraft issued a MAYDAY call but gave no further response to air traffic control.

  • The plane crashed in a residential area just outside the airport perimeter. It reportedly crashed into the hostel of B.J. Medical College in Ahmedabad, with unconfirmed reports of student injures/fatalities.

  • Authorities report 204 bodies recovered.

  • Authorities have confirmed that at least five students lost their lives, according to Dean Minakshi Parikh.
  • Air India’s chairman called it a “tragic accident” and extended condolences to affected families. India’s Civil Aviation Minister said he was “shocked and devastated” and is overseeing response efforts.

  • Rescue teams have been mobilized, with medical aid and relief being rushed to the site.

This is a developing story.


Air India has confirmed that Flight AI171, bound for London Gatwick from the western Indian city of Ahmedabad, crashed in a “tragic accident” shortly after take-off on 12 June.

India’s civil aviation authority just confirmed that there were 242 people on board. Air India says passengers on crashed plane included 169 Indian nationals, 53 British, seven Portuguese, one Canadian.

Authorities report no apparent survivors, with 204 bodies already recovered. The aircraft went down in a densely populated residential area, prompting widespread devastation. Indian and British officials have launched crisis responses, with rescue efforts ongoing.

The aircraft lost signal just seconds after take-off, according to flight tracking service Flightradar24, which received the last signal from the plane at an altitude of 625 feet (190 meters). The crash is believed to have occurred in a residential area.

Air India plane crash, 12 June. (Photo: Turbine Traveller/X)
Air India plane crash, 12 June. (Photo: Turbine Traveller/X)

 

The Air India Boeing 787 aircraft “crashed immediately after takeoff from Ahmedabad”, which was at 13:39 IST, the directorate said, ad

ding that “there were 242 persons on board the aircraft consisting of two pilots and 10 cabin crew”.

“It gave a MAYDAY Call to ATC (air traffic control), but thereafter no response was given by the aircraft,” it said in a statement, adding that the  aircraft “fell on ground outside the airport perimeter”.

latest reports said the flight reportedly crashed into the hostel wing of B.J. Medical College (BJMC), one of Ahmedabad’s leading medical institutions.

According to early reports, several medical students residing in the hostel might have been severely injured or killed in the crash.

The aircraft struck a campus dining facility while 60 to 80 students were inside. “Most of the students escaped, but 10 or 12 were trapped in the fire,” Parikh said.

India health minister said “many people” were killed in the plane crash.

Air India chairman Natarajan Chandrasekaran expressed deep sorrow over the incident: “With profound sorrow I confirm that Air India Flight 171 operating Ahmedabad–London Gatwick was involved in a tragic accident today.”

“Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with the families and loved ones of all those affected by this devastating event,” he said, adding that an emergency center has been activated and a dedicated support team is assisting families seeking information.

India’s Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu said he was “shocked and devastated” by the crash.

“My thoughts and prayers are with all those on board and their families,” he said in a statement. “I am personally monitoring the situation and have directed all aviation and emergency response agencies to take swift and coordinated action.”

“Rescue teams have been mobilized, and all efforts are being made to ensure medical aid and relief support are being rushed to the site,” he added.

This incident marks the most serious involving an Air India aircraft since August 2020, when a smaller Boeing 737-800 operated by Air India Express skidded off the runway while landing in poor weather at Calicut airport, resulting in multiple fatalities.

While Boeing 787 Dreamliners, like the one involved in today’s crash, have had operational issues in the past, including incidents causing injuries, there has been no fatal crash recorded for this aircraft model to date, according to the Aviation Safety Network.

*This is a developing story


© Agence France-Presse

LOCA Launches Green Bond to Boost EV Use in Laos

LOCA Launches Green Bond to Boost EV Use in Laos

LOCA, the Lao-grown ride-hailing and electric mobility startup, has announced the extension of its current fundraising round through the issuance of a USD 2.5 million Green Bond. 

Kind + Jugend ASEAN 2025 Kicks Off: Southeast Asia’s Premier Trade Show for Maternity, Baby & Kids Products Empowers Thai and ASEAN Businesses to Enter the Global Market


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 June 2025 – The third edition of Kind + Jugend ASEAN 2025 officially inaugurated today at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, continuing its mission to launch Southeast Asia’s maternity, baby, and kids industry onto the global stage. The event is organized through the collaboration of Koelnmesse and key national supporting partners including the Thai Chamber of Commerce, the Department of International Trade Promotion, the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), the Office of Small and Medium Enterprises Promotion (OSMEP), and Thailand Textile Institute.

Photo 1

This year’s show showcased more than 100 leading brands from around the world including exhibitors from Thailand, China, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Spain, the Netherlands, and Austria. The event offers an extensive business matching program, knowledge-sharing trend forum and seminars led by renowned international experts, a dedicated Innovation Zone, and the prestigious Innovation Award pitching competition. With registered visitors from more than 30 counties including Australia, Cambodia, Canada, Chiana, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, United Arab Emirates, Vietnam, and more, Kind+Jugend ASEAN 2025 is truly a meeting place for the industry in Southeast Asia and beyond.

Mr. Mathias Kuepper, Managing Director of Koelnmesse Thailand and Vice President Asia-Pacific, Koelnmesse, stated: Managing Director of Koelnmesse Thailand and Vice President Asia-Pacific, Koelnmesse, stated: “Kind + Jugend ASEAN was launched with a long-term vision: to build a professional, regionally relevant platform for this industry in Southeast Asia—supporting quality brands, fostering partnerships, and enabling sustainable growth. That vision remains firmly in place today.

The baby and maternity industry in 2025 is navigating a complex and uneven landscape, shaped by shifting demographics, evolving consumer expectations, and macroeconomic uncertainty. And yet, these very circumstances underline the importance of coming together—to share insights, build resilience, and identify new opportunities for growth across the region.”

Mr. Pongpol Yodmuangcharoen, Secretary to the Minister of Industry, further emphasized: “The Ministry of Industry is proud to support Kind + Jugend ASEAN 2025, which serves as a vital platform for Thai SMEs to generate economic value, particularly in the rapidly growing global market for innovative maternity and baby products. In today’s competitive landscape, success is no longer determined by size alone, but by the ability to connect with emerging opportunities on the global stage. This event is more than an exhibition—it is a true ‘bridge’ connecting Thai entrepreneurs with international partners, perfectly aligned with the Ministry’s vision of empowering SMEs to become regional exporters and innovators.”

Dr. Kitsana Vachekrilas, Vice Chairman of the Thai Chamber of Commerce, added: “The gathering of brands and entrepreneurs from numerous countries today highlights Thailand’s role as a strategic hub within the global supply chain for maternity and baby products. We boast world-class manufacturing facilities, skilled labor, and a new generation of designers with highly competitive ideas. The Thai Chamber of Commerce is honored to contribute to this initiative, as we strongly believe the ‘maternity and baby economy’ holds tremendous potential and is closely tied to the quality of life for Thai and ASEAN families. We are committed to helping our entrepreneurs elevate product standards to meet the needs of modern families and compete successfully on the global stage.”

Dr. Duangdej Yuaikwarmdee, Director of the International Trade Show Industry Department, Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), remarked: “The MICE industry not only generates revenue from business travelers and event participants but also serves as a crucial instrument for fostering long-term international cooperation. Kind + Jugend ASEAN exemplifies how MICE can propel niche industries, such as maternity and baby products, onto the world stage. TCEB takes pride in playing a role in advancing events of this calibre and remains fully committed to supporting Thailand’s position as Asia’s premier destination for exhibitions and business matchmaking. We believe this event will spark new ideas, drive positive transformation, and promote sustainable growth in industries directly tied to the nation’s future.”

This year’s edition also introduces three new experiential zones designed to allow attendees to interact directly with products—providing a valuable hands-on marketing experience for participating brands:

  • Stroller Park — A realistic simulation track where visitors can test and compare the functionality and performance of strollers across various terrains in real-time.
  • Gourmet Zone — A live demonstration and sampling area where nutrition experts provide insights on baby food preparation, offering visitors the chance to experience diverse products firsthand.
  • Diaper-Changing Zone — A practical, trial space where visitors can directly test and compare products such as disposable diapers, pads, and skincare items for babies.

One of today’s major highlights is the Kind + Jugend ASEAN Innovation Award 2025, a platform where entrepreneurs and designers present cutting-edge innovations across five categories: Travelling & Moving Kids, Furniture, Textile, Kids Care, and Nutrition. Finalists will participate in a live pitch presentation, with winners to be announced on the same day.

Beyond just an exhibition, Kind + Jugend ASEAN 2025 offers a fertile ground for real business opportunities, ideal for businesses aiming to expand both domestically and internationally and buyers and distributors looking to expand product offers.

The event runs from today through June 14, 2025, at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center, Halls 5–6. Admission is open to industry professionals, buyers, distributors, importers & exporters, and investors specializing in maternity, baby, and kids products. June 14 will serve as a public day, welcoming parents and consumers who wish to explore and purchase innovative products at special prices. The public day will also feature fashion shows by Kids’ Planet and The Mall, alongside Meet & Greet sessions with George the Pig, the beloved younger brother of Peppa Pig. Free registration is available at kindundjugend.asia.

Hashtag: #Kind+Jugend

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

Arup drives global infrastructure collaboration at IIICF


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 June 2025 – The 16th International Infrastructure Investment and Construction Forum (IIICF), co-hosted by the Macao Commerce and Investment Promotion Institute (IPIM) and the China International Contractors Association (CHINCA), took place from 10 to 12 June at The Venetian Macao Cotai Expo. At the event, global built environment consultancy Arup hosted a parallel forum on ‘Unlocking opportunities in global infrastructure collaboration through total engineering’. The event gathered industry leaders from around the world to discuss the opportunities and challenges presented by large-scale international infrastructure projects. Participants also explored collaborative approaches to integrated engineering design and project management.

IIICF press release photo high res

The forum opened with keynote speeches by Matt Crossman, Deputy HMTC, Department for Business and Trade, British Embassy Beijing; TC Chew, APAC Managing Director, Arup; and Fang Qiuchen, Chairman of CHINCA. TC Chew remarked:

“The APAC region offers immense potential for infrastructure development, alongside unique complexities. At Arup, we are addressing these challenges using Total Design. This holistic approach brings us a comprehensive view on what’s possible, desirable, and commercially viable. It enables us to integrate diverse expertise through seamless collaboration, creating innovative and sustainable solutions that adapt to changing client needs and regional obstacles. By delivering impactful projects that resonate with local communities, we drive meaningful change, shaping a resilient and sustainable built environment for the future.”

Further keynote addresses were given by Kate West, Chief Officer, APAC Business & Markets, Arup. Kate said:

“The Asia-Pacific region will see one of the highest construction industry growth rates of any region globally over the next 10 years, driven by the outperformance of key emerging markets including Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam and the Philippines. This growth is driving huge demand for skills and capital across the building and infrastructure sectors, amid a broader economic expansion. At Arup, we’re harnessing our global expertise and deep local relationships across our integrated APAC region to navigate these complexities—sharing knowledge, building capabilities, and delivering better outcomes for our clients and communities.”

Two panel discussions followed, with prominent industry experts sharing insights on large-scale international infrastructure projects. The first panel, titled ‘Challenges and opportunities of large-scale international infrastructure projects’ was moderated by TC Chew. Panellists included Jacob Kam, CEO of MTR Corporation; Zhou Jiayi, Deputy GM of Power China International Company, GM of the Asia-Pacific Regional Headquarters; and Matt Crossman. Together, panellists discussed the various challenges in international infrastructure development including financing, new technologies, environmental protection, and policies and regulations. They also exchanged ideas on how to make the most of complementary strengths, promote new types of partnerships, and ensure everyone benefits from the outcome.

The following keynote speeches were delivered by Michael McGowan, APAC Transport Market Portfolio Leader, Arup and David Moran, APAC Digital Leader, Arup. Michael, who has led aviation, road, utility, and planning projects, and David, an expert in IT strategy and project management, shared their experiences on large, multidisciplinary infrastructure projects. They also offered perspectives on the future of infrastructure development.

The second panel discussion was moderated by Philip Wong, East Asia Business & Markets Director, Arup, and featured Chan Kuong In, Deputy General Manager, China Construction Engineering (Macau) Company Limited; Lu Yuchun, Chief Engineer of Smart Transportation BU, Huawei; and Charles Im, Southeast Asia Rail Leader, Arup. Drawing on their experiences, the panellists analysed design technology, market culture, ecological demands, and collaborative approaches that can drive progress in smart, green, and sustainable infrastructure development.

Additionally, Theresa Yeung, East Asia Managing Principal, Arup discussed the role of the Mechanism for International Sustainable Infrastructure Promotion (MISIP) in multi-stakeholder collaboration with several experts at another panel discussion. She said:

“MISIP offers a valuable platform that brings together governments, investors, and technical experts to accelerate the development of sustainable infrastructure. At Arup, we believe that the most resilient and future-ready solutions emerge when diverse stakeholders collaborate from the outset. MISIP enables this by fostering shared understanding, aligning priorities, and encouraging innovation across sectors and geographies. It’s a much-needed mechanism to help cities and communities transition toward more inclusive, low-carbon, and adaptive infrastructure systems.”

There has been an increase in international cooperation in infrastructure construction, thanks in part to national policies such as the Belt and Road Initiative. Arup believes this forum, which has brought together experts and leaders from various sectors, will promote more project resource sharing and multidisciplinary collaboration. It will also help industry professionals stay informed about market trends, challenges, and opportunities, and ultimately support the international infrastructure development.

Hashtag: #Arup

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

About Arup

Arup is a global built environment consultancy with advisory and technical expertise across more than 150 disciplines. We create safe, resilient, and regenerative places, bringing a Total Design approach to our work for our clients.

With over 40 years of experience in China, we are at the forefront of industry development. Our projects span landmark architecture, large-scale infrastructure, as well as regional and city-scale planning, strategic management consultancy and digital services.

Our portfolio includes iconic projects such as the Sydney Opera House, the Centre Pompidou in Paris, the Queensferry Crossing in Scotland, and Singapore’s Changi Airport.

In China, we have contributed to a series of significant projects such as CCTV Headquarters in Beijing, the National Stadium and the National Aquatic Centre (the ‘Bird’s Nest’ and ‘Water Cube’), the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macau Bridge, and the Shanghai urban drainage master planning. Through these projects, we have not only witnessed China’s urban growth and prosperity but also demonstrated our technical excellence and extensive project experience.

Latest from the National Assembly: Laos Unveils New Measures to Curb Inflation, Tackle Debt

Laos Shakes Up Cabinet in Sweeping Reform, Names New Central Bank Chief
Lao government officials stand up in the cabinet meeting (photo credit: Pasaxon News)

In the first nine days of the 9th national assembly, which will continue through 26 June, Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone and senior cabinet members delivered a sweeping update on the government’s efforts to address Laos’ deepening economic challenges. 

Toxic Arsenic Contamination Spreads from Northern Thailand into the Mekong River

Arsenic levels in the river surge beyond safe limits; local communities call on the government and region to take urgent action. (photo: Living River Association)

Arsenic contamination in northern Thailand has reached critical levels, with toxic pollutants now spreading into the Mekong River, according to Thailand’s Pollution Control Department (PCD).

The scope of contamination is alarming. Between 26-30 May, the PCD tested 20 sites across three major waterways, and every single location showed arsenic levels exceeding both national surface water quality standards and the World Health Organization’s safety threshold of 0.01 milligrams per litre. 

All 15 monitoring points along the Kok River, three in Chiang Mai Province and twelve in Chiang Rai Province, registered arsenic concentrations between 0.013 and 0.023 milligrams per litre, with the highest levels detected at Pong Na Kham village. 

The Sai River showed even more severe contamination, with all three sampling locations recording concentrations ranging from 0.027 to 0.038 milligrams per litre, peaking at the 2nd Friendship Bridge in Mae Sai District. Even the Mekong River itself showed elevated arsenic levels of 0.018 and 0.014 milligrams per litre at two points in Chiang Saen District.

Water quality tests conducted between 26–30 May along the Kok, Sai, and Mekong Rivers revealed dangerously high arsenic levels, according to Thailand’s Pollution Control Department. (photo: Thailand’s Pollution Control Department)

Water samples collected near the Thai-Myanmar border revealed both abnormally high turbidity and elevated heavy metal concentrations, particularly arsenic, providing clear evidence of pollution from upstream mining operations in Myanmar’s Shan State. 

The environmental and health impacts are already visible. 

The Living River Association reported on 10 June that communities along the Kok and Mekong rivers have observed increasing numbers of fish with visible infections and nodules, clear indicators of heavy metal bioaccumulation in the aquatic food chain.

Infected fish with severe nodules have increased in the Kok, Sai, Ruak, and Mekong Rivers. This growing contamination has raised serious concerns among local communities and severely impacted the livelihoods of fishermen in Chiang Rai and Chiang Rai Provinces. (photo: Living River Association).

Recognizing the transboundary nature of this environmental disaster, the PCD has recommended coordinated water testing from the Lao side of the river to fully understand the contamination’s regional scope. The department will launch another round of comprehensive testing, though seasonal factors complicate assessment as the initial testing occurred during the early rainy season when water conditions typically fluctuate.

The contamination’s severity first became apparent in late April, when researchers from Mae Fah Luang University and the Northern Natural Disaster Research and Prediction Institute discovered arsenic levels reaching 0.19 milligrams per litre, nearly 19 times the WHO safety threshold, at nine sites following flash floods in Chiang Rai. The worst contamination was found at the Golden Triangle, where the Ruak River meets the Mekong at the convergence of Thailand, Myanmar, and Laos.

Meanwhile, environmental activists and residents are calling on the Thai government to take immediate action, including investigating and potentially shutting down unregulated or illegal mining activities upstream, particularly those believed to be operating in Myanmar’s Shan State.

Boonsuk Suwandee, a fisherman from Sop Kham Village in Chiang Saen District, told the Living River Association that toxic substances in the rivers are severely affecting the livelihoods of local fishermen. (photo: Living River Association).

Boonsuk Suwandee, a fisherman from Sop Kham Village in Chiang Saen District, told the Living River Association that toxic substances in the rivers are severely affecting the livelihoods of local fishermen. 

The fisherman stressed that fish vendors have completely stopped buying their catch and are now unreachable, with some even turning off their phones. He urged the government and relevant agencies to step in and provide immediate support to those affected, noting that, since the contamination incident, their income from fishing has nearly vanished.