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Sungrow Secures Top Rank Again in BloombergNEF’s 2025 Inverter Bankability Survey

HEFEI, China, March 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Sungrow, the global leading PV inverter and energy storage system (ESS) provider, has once again been named the global No.1 bankable brand in BloombergNEF’s (BNEF) 2025 Inverter Bankability Survey, with 100% recognition in survey responses. This marks the sixth time Sungrow has earned the prestigious No.1 ranking, reinforcing its industry leadership and the unwavering trust in its products across the global renewable energy market.

Sungrow 2025 BNEF Bankability Survey
Sungrow 2025 BNEF Bankability Survey

The BNEF Bankability Survey is a key benchmark in the renewable energy industry, reflecting the financial stability and trustworthiness of inverter suppliers. The Survey covers multiple dimensions, including manufacturer’s warranty, customer support and services, Lead times, etc. This continued acknowledgment from BNEF underscores the market’s constant trust in Sungrow and positions the company as the top preferred partner for solar projects. It signals that adopting Sungrow inverters in renewable projects increases the likelihood of securing long-term loans from banking institutions, thereby ensuring sustained financial stability and benefits for our clients.

“Our power electronic converters installation in 2025 is over 1000 GW,” said Lee Zhang, President of Sungrow Utility PV BU, “To date, Sungrow has cumulatively installed over 660GW of PV inverters worldwide. With over 7600+ personnel in the R&D team and 4 manufacturing bases worldwide, we continue to strengthen our role as a trusted and reliable partner in the global transition to clean energy.”

Moving forward, Sungrow will continue to deepen its global partnerships and drive technological innovation to support the world’s transition to a sustainable, low-carbon energy future.

About Sungrow

Sungrow, a global leader in renewable energy technology, has pioneered sustainable power solutions for over 29 years. As of Dec 2025, Sungrow has installed over 1000 GW of power electronic converters worldwide. The company is recognized as the world’s most bankable PV inverter and energy storage company (BloombergNEF). Its innovations power clean energy projects across the globe, supported by a network of 520 service outlets guaranteeing excellent customer experiences. At Sungrow, we’re committed to bridging to a sustainable future through cutting-edge technology and unparalleled service. For more information, please visit: www.sungrowpower.com/en.

Geopolitical instability and interconnected risks raise fears of Black Swan scenarios

  • Around 50% of companies see supply chain paralysis and a global internet outage as the two most plausible Black Swan scenarios in the next five years.
  • Geopolitical noise around the globe masks risks from high-impact climate, health, and future technology risks.
  • Different risk perceptions between multinational enterprises and small and medium-sized businesses.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 March 2026 – Despite seeming predictable in hindsight, Black Swans are unexpected or unforeseen events that are highly disruptive and economically damaging. Examples include the 9/11 attacks of 2001 in the US, the 2008 global financial crisis, and the Covid-19 pandemic. Allianz Research estimates cumulative global GDP losses from the pandemic between 2020 and 2023 to be in the region of US$12trn.In addition to the huge financial and business costs, such events typically have long-lasting implications, resulting in geopolitical and societal shifts that continue many years after the initial event. According to new Allianz Risk Barometer analysis, more than half of the 3,000+ respondents (51%) identify a global supply chain paralysis due to a geopolitical conflict as the most plausible Black Swan scenario globally which could impact their company in the next five years. Fear of a global internet outage ranks second (47%) which reflects the increasing awareness of cyber and artificial intelligence (AI) risks among business leaders.

Respondents in Asia Pacific also identified a global supply chain paralysis and global internet outrage as the two most plausible Black Swan scenarios; the former is ranked first in China and Hong Kong, Singapore, and South Korea, while the latter is ranked first in Australia, India, Japan, Malaysia, and Thailand.

Allianz Commercial CEO Thomas Lillelund comments: “Although Black Swan events are not seen to be immediately likely, these rare, high-impact scenarios are perceived as increasingly plausible and should be considered by executive boards given their potential consequences. Growing interconnectivity across both physical and digital supply chains means disruptions now cascade much faster and can turn into major losses. In today’s fragmented geopolitical environment, companies must double down on resilience and integrated risk management to ride out the next perfect storm.”

Geopolitics is a key driver for Black Swans
Given the current geopolitical environment, it is no surprise that supply chain paralysis resulting from a geopolitical conflict is regarded as the most plausible Black Swan scenario. The threats of tariffs, trade wars and protectionism, as well as disruption to supply chains and shipping caused by regional conflicts in the Middle East and Russia / Ukraine are at the top of every board agenda. Allianz Research estimates that cumulative GDP losses over a two-year horizon triggered by a global supply chain disruption on the scale of the war in Ukraine could total US$1.5trn. In fact, political-related risks stand out as a leading potential trigger for Black Swan events, according to respondents. Mass social unrest and political instability is regarded as the fourth most plausible scenario globally (29%) and is a top three risk in the Americas (31%) and Africa and the Middle East (41%) regions, as well as in France (42%), for example. A sudden collapse of a major financial institution or a sovereign debt crisis, leading to a global liquidity crisis and severe market volatility ranks third (30%).

Interconnectivity and interdependency of both physical and digital supply chains are potentially increasing vulnerability at a time of geopolitical uncertainty, rapid advances in technology, and climate change. Businesses and global supply chains are also more vulnerable to Black Swan events due to growing concentrations of economic activity reliant on a limited number of critical suppliers and products in areas like AI and digital services, semiconductors, rare earth processors and transition technologies.

Company size influences risk perception
Global supply chain paralysis due to a geopolitical conflict halting the movement of goods and raw materials ranks top for both large (>US$500mn annual revenue, 55% of responses) and mid-sized companies (US$100mn+ to US$500mn, 52%). In contrast, smaller companies (Awareness of Black Swans and the need to build resilience has increased in recent years, but businesses can never fully prepare for rare high impact events such as a global outage or an unforeseen climate-related catastrophe. Building organizational agility, fostering a risk-aware culture and developing scalable response plans for a range of scenarios remain the most practical steps to best prepare for Black Swan events. Insurers can play a critical role in helping businesses strengthen their resilience in areas such as cyber risk and support more informed decisions when assessing and selecting critical suppliers,” says Michael Bruch, Global Head of Risk Consulting Advisory Services, Allianz Commercial.

END

Hashtag: #AllianzCommercial


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

About Allianz Commercial

Allianz Commercial is the center of expertise and global line of Allianz Group for insuring mid-sized businesses, large enterprises and specialist risks. Among our customers are the world’s largest consumer brands, financial institutions and industry players, the global aviation and shipping industry as well as family-owned and medium enterprises which are the backbone of the economy. We also cover unique risks such as offshore wind parks, infrastructure projects or film productions. Powered by the employees, , and network of the world’s #1 insurance brand, we work together to help our customers prepare for what’s ahead: They trust us in providing a wide range of traditional and risk transfer solutions, outstanding and services as well as seamless handling. Allianz Commercial brings together the large corporate insurance business of Allianz Global Corporate & Specialty (AGCS) and the commercial insurance business of national Allianz Property & Casualty entities serving mid-sized companies. We are present in over 200 countries and territories either through our own teams or the Allianz Group network and partners. In 2024, the integrated business of Allianz Commercial generated around €18 billion in gross premium globally.

A One-Stop Family Adventure at PARKROYAL on Beach Road, Singapore with Wildlife-Themed Rooms, Breakfast, and Attraction Tickets Included

SINGAPORE, March 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Renowned as one of the world’s most family-friendly destinations, Singapore welcomes a new all-in-one family holiday experience with PARKROYAL on Beach Road’s Rainforest Adventure Room Package, thoughtfully curated to combine themed accommodation, daily breakfast and complimentary access to Rainforest Wild Asia, the newest attraction at Mandai Wildlife Reserve.

[Left to Right] Wildlife Themed Family Room/ Home to the Malayan Tiger at Rainforest Wild Asia
[Left to Right] Wildlife Themed Family Room/ Home to the Malayan Tiger at Rainforest Wild Asia

Located just 20 minutes from Changi Airport and within easy reach of Singapore’s major attractions, PARKROYAL on Beach Road offers families a seamless blend of comfort, convenience and discovery — making it an ideal base for an unforgettable family getaway.

Designed for families seeking hassle-free travel and meaningful shared experiences, the Rainforest Adventure Room Package transforms the hotel stay into part of the journey. Guests are welcomed into specially designed Wildlife-Themed Family Rooms featuring playful rainforest décor, one king bed and one single bed — creating an immersive environment that delights young explorers from the moment they arrive.

“Our Rainforest Adventure Package was created to help families enjoy the very best of Singapore with ease,” said Damian Tan, General Manager of PARKROYAL on Beach Road. “With themed rooms, daily breakfast, attraction tickets and thoughtful touches throughout the stay, parents can relax while children enjoy a truly magical experience.”

The package includes complimentary entry to Rainforest Wild Asia, Singapore’s newest wildlife park and Asia’s first adventure-based zoological experience. Families can explore canopy bridges, underground habitats and immersive rainforest landscapes, offering close-up encounters with nature and wildlife in a setting designed for discovery and adventure.

Back at the hotel, families can unwind at the panoramic Wellness Floor, complete with a dedicated children’s pool, or enjoy a hearty meal at Ginger, the hotel’s all-day dining halal restaurant serving beloved local favourites. Situated at the doorstep of the vibrant Kampong Gelam district, the hotel also offers easy access to cultural attractions, shopping and iconic landmarks such as Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay and Sentosa.

The Rainforest Adventure Room Package starts from SGD350 per night and is available for bookings and stays until 30 December 2026.

Package highlights include:

  • Wildlife-themed Family Room accommodation
  • Complimentary Rainforest Wild Asia tickets (up to 2 adults and 2 children)
  • Daily breakfast at Ginger
  • Welcome “Rainforest Splash” mocktail and in-room amenity
  • Children’s colouring activity and Mandai plushie (subject to availability)
  • Additional privileges for Pan Pacific DISCOVERY members

For reservations, visit: www.panpacific.com/beachroad

Discover more at www.panpacific.com/beachroad

 

MGI Tech Announces Acquisition of STOmics and CycloneSEQ to Deliver Integrated Long-Read, Short-Read and Spatial Omics Solutions

SHENZHEN, China, March 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — MGI Tech Co., Ltd. (“MGI”), a company dedicated to developing core tools and technologies that drive innovation in the life sciences, today announced the acquisition of STOmics and CycloneSEQ. It marks a significant milestone in MGI’s “SEQALL+GLI+Omics” strategy, positioning the company as the world’s only manufacturer of core life science tools spanning short-read sequencing, long-read nanopore sequencing, generative lab intelligence and spatial omics technologies.

By bringing spatial biology and nanopore sequencing technologies fully in house, MGI strengthens its product portfolio, enhances long-term competitiveness and advances its vision of becoming a one-stop solution provider for customers’ long-read and short-read sequencing needs.

Advancing Spatial Multi-Omics with STOmics
Established in April 2024, STOmics’ proprietary Stereo-seq technology represents a breakthrough in spatial multi-omics, featuring:

  • Large field of view
  • Nano-scale resolution
  • Unbiased whole-transcriptome capture
  • Integrated multi-omics solutions

The technology has been widely applied in developmental biology, organ atlas mapping, neuroscience, and digital pathology. To date, Stereo-seq has contributed to more than 60 publications in leading scientific journals, including Cell, Science, Nature, and Cell Research.

STOmics’ solutions are highly compatible with MGI’s patented DNBSEQ sequencing platform, for instance, Stereo-seq libraries are sequenced using MGI’s flagship G400 and T7 platforms, ensuring high-quality data output.

STOmics related products
STOmics related products

Following the acquisition, MGI can now offer more accessible, comprehensive, and efficient spatial-temporal omics workflow solutions—empowering researchers with deeper, three-dimensional insights into biological processes.

Expanding Long-Read Capabilities with CycloneSEQ
CycloneSEQ, established in March 2024, has commercialized nanopore sequencing technology as two platforms: G100-ER* for lower throughput and G400-ER* for higher throughput. What is worth mentioning, G100-ER* has obtained CE marking under the European Union’s In Vitro Diagnostic Regulation (IVDR), reinforcing its compliance and readiness for regulated markets.

CycloneSEQ related products
CycloneSEQ related products

MGI’s DNBSEQ technology, which delivers high throughput, high accuracy and cost-effectiveness, naturally complements CycloneSEQ’s long-read nanopore sequencing capabilities. Through this integration, MGI will provide users with a comprehensive “long-read + short-read” sequencing toolkit.

Delivering a True “SEQALL+GLI+Omics” One-Stop
Both STOmics and CycloneSEQ have already maintained close collaboration with MGI, with MGI holding exclusive global distribution licenses for their reagents and products.

Upon completion of integration and combination of short-read, long-read and spatial omics under one provider, along with existing generative lab intelligence, MGI significantly enhances customer service capabilities, operational efficiency, and long-term partnership value through the “SEQALL+GLI+Omics” strategy.

*This information is for general reference only and does not imply that the relevant product or service will be available in any specific country or region.

About MGI
MGI Tech Co., Ltd. (or its subsidiaries, together referred to as MGI) is committed to building core tools and technologies that drive innovation in life science. Our focus lies in research & development, manufacturing, and sales of instruments, reagents, and related products in the field of life science and biotechnology.

We provide real-time, multi-omics, and full spectrum of digital equipment and systems for precision medicine, agriculture, healthcare and various other industries. Founded in 2016, MGI has grown into a leader in life science, serving customers across six continents and has established research, manufacturing, training, and after-sales service facilities globally.

MGI stands out as one of the few companies capable of independently developing and mass-producing clinical-grade gene sequencers with varying throughput capacities, ranging from Gb to Tb levels. With unparalleled expertise, cutting-edge products, and a commitment to global impact, MGI continues to shape the trajectory of life sciences into the future. Learn more at: https://global-mgitech.com/LinkedInX and YouTube.

 

SLEEP WELL, LIVE BETTER: WESTIN HOTELS & RESORTS PUTS REST AT THE HEART OF TRAVEL THIS WORLD SLEEP DAY 2026

From Sleep Expert Sessions to Sound Baths Under the Stars, Westin Hotels & Resorts Across the Region Showcase Comprehensive ‘Sleep Well’ Programs Through Culturally Immersive Experiences

SINGAPORE, March 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As World Sleep Day returns on March 13, 2026, Westin Hotels & Resorts, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s global portfolio of more than 30 extraordinary hotel brands, reaffirms its leadership in sleep and well-being across Asia Pacific excluding China (APEC). Guided by the brand’s Sleep Well pillar, Westin continues to champion rest as a vital foundation for health, performance, and overall wellness – placing sleep at the very heart of the travel experience.

Sleep Well, Live Better - Westin Hotels & Resorts
Sleep Well, Live Better – Westin Hotels & Resorts

For over a decade, Westin has empowered guests to transcend the rigors of travel while on the road through the brand’s pillars of well-being: Sleep Well, Eat Well, and Move Well. Every Westin sleep experience begins with the brand’s iconic Heavenly® Bed, featuring custom-designed mattresses, plush pillows, and luxurious linens that have redefined hotel sleeping standards since their introduction. Complementing the bed are signature sleep-enhancing touchpoints such as the Sleep Well Lavender Balm, infused with calming essential oils to ease tension before rest, and the Sleep Well Menu, offering thoughtfully curated, sleep-supportive superfoods through in-room dining.

“Sleep is not something we treat as a moment in time at Westin Hotels & Resorts,” said Cristiano Rinaldi, Chief Lodging Product & Services Officer – Asia Pacific excluding China, Marriott International. “It’s a long-term commitment. Our role is to help guests genuinely disconnect, recover, and experience rest in a way that feels intentional and achievable. World Sleep Day is a powerful reminder of why this matters, and how Westin continues to lead with purpose.”

This World Sleep Day, as wellness-led travel and sleep tourism continue to grow, Westin hotels across the region are building upon these signature foundations with expert-led programs, cultural wellness practices, and immersive experiences that transform sleep from a nightly necessity into a holistic wellness journey.

World Sleep Day 2026: Immersive Activations Across The Region

At The Westin Manila, a MICHELIN Guide recognized hotel in the region, World Sleep Day anchors the hotel’s first Wellness Weekend from March 13–15, 2026. The three-day program features multi-sensory experiences including Sonic Reset sessions with Dyson Philippines’ OnTrac™ Headphones, sleep infusion turndown rituals on the Heavenly® Bed, and sleep education talks led by Dr. Jimmy Chang of the Philippine Society of Sleep Medicine. Guests can also join breathwork and somatic movement sessions, a tea ceremony with meditation guide Valeriya Netesa, floating sound baths by the pool with Karina Dayrit, Qigong classes with MUNI Co-Wellness Recreational Center, guided meditation and yoga with Maxene Magalona, and a community Wellness Market highlighting local brands.

In Australia, The Westin Brisbane presents The Sleep Reset, an afternoon-to-evening wellness experience in collaboration with KAILO designed to help guests unwind and rebalance. The program brings together expert conversations on sleep science, grounding Yin Yoga, guided relaxation, and Eat Well culinary moments crafted to support recovery. Meanwhile, The Westin Melbourne creates interactive engagement through a Heavenly Bed photo wall installation, turning the brand’s signature amenity into a shareable social moment.

At The Westin Singapore, an innovative Immersive 9D Breathwork session combines gentle breathwork, hypnotic guidance, and immersive sound therapy to help participants transition into deep rest, while The Westin Grande Sukhumvit, Bangkok is hosting evening Wind-Down Flow sessions – complimentary for in-house guests on March 13, featuring gentle stretching and breathwork focused on releasing travel tension.

In Malaysia, The Westin Kuala Lumpur invites guests to an immersive evening experience combining meditation and sleep-supportive dining in a cozy, sensory-rich setting. At The Westin Desaru Coast Resort, guests are encouraged to Sleep Well, Live Better through guided wellness meditation sessions, a Pledge Tree experience at the resort lobby, a special one-night beachfront bonfire activation, and thoughtfully curated turndown rituals designed to ease the transition from day to night.

At The Westin Maldives Miriandhoo Resort, World Sleep Day is marked with Yoga Nidra – a guided meditation practice designed to bring guests into a deeply restful state between waking and sleeping, sound healing sessions, herbal tea rituals, and extended breakfast hours that honor natural sleep rhythms. The hotel has also curated a Nap Map, guiding guests to tranquil corners of the island – from shaded hammocks and hanging cocoons to secluded coves framed by lush greenery. Each location is thoughtfully chosen to help guests switch off, slow down, and truly reset.

Sleep Rituals Inspired by Place

Beyond World Sleep Day, Westin’s Sleep Well philosophy is woven into the fabric of its hotels through destination-inspired rituals that reflect local culture, nature, and tradition.

At The Westin Resort & Spa Cam Ranh, the exclusive “Glow” spa package draws from traditional Vietnamese wellness philosophy focused on pressure points and natural elements. The three-step therapy features natural bamboo body therapy, herbal ball compress, and cupping therapy that revitalizes and refreshes – specially designed for sleep recovery, jet lag, and long travels. The Westin Langkawi Resort & Spa invites guests to wind down with white tea and traditional secang herbal infusions, complemented by lavender aromatherapy and the natural lullaby of the Andaman Sea – simple, nature-rooted rituals that offer restorative practices guests can easily incorporate into their bedtime routines.

In Indonesia, at The Westin Nirup Island Resort & Spa, Batam, surrounded by lush greenery and the gentle rhythm of the sea, the Island Sleep Ritual transforms bedtime into a sensory journey with a restorative massage and the Nirup Scent collection – linen spray, scented candle, and reed diffuser crafted to reflect the peaceful spirit of the island. At The Westin Resort Nusa Dua, Bali, the Aspire Massage Ritual at Heavenly Spa gently releases tension, calms the mind, and restores balance – creating the ideal foundation for deeper, more restorative sleep. Through soothing rhythmic strokes, therapeutic essential oils, and mindful breathing, it eases stress and quiets the mind, allowing the body to transition naturally into peaceful, uninterrupted rest. Guests are also invited to “Sleep Like a Local” with a Balinese Nutmeg Chocolate Nightcap – with nutmeg (pala), a native Indonesian spice traditionally valued for its calming properties, infused into warm artisanal chocolate.

In the yoga capital of the world noting that sound healing plays a huge role in restorative sleep, at The Westin Resort and Spa, Himalayas guests can experience enhanced hand pan-led sound healing that amplifies deep rest. The Westin Kolkata Rajarhat honors Bengal’s rich cultural heritage through three distinct rituals: the Bengal Botanical Tea Turndown featuring chamomile with holy basil (tulsi) and regional florals; the Rabindra Sangeet Soundscape offering a bedside card with calming verses by Rabindranath Tagore alongside gentle instrumental Bengali music; and the Monsoon Mist Aromatherapy with pillow mist blending vetiver (khus), tulsi, and petrichor-inspired earth notes – evoking the calming scent of the first rainfall on Bengal soil. At The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake, chamomile tea, lavender balm, and a Sleep Well Playlist inspired by sea waves, raindrops, and wind combine traditional Indian wellness practices into simple rituals guests can recreate at home.

Leading the Future of Restorative Travel

As wellness continues to redefine what meaningful travel looks like, Westin Hotels & Resorts remains at the forefront of sleep-focused hospitality. This World Sleep Day, the brand reaffirms its commitment to helping guests rest deeply, travel thoughtfully, and wake renewed – setting the standard for restorative travel, wherever their journeys take them.

Beyond sleep, Westin’s approach to restorative travel is supported by two other signature pillars – Eat Well and Move Well – reinforcing the brand’s belief that well-being is holistic and interconnected. Across the region, guests can enjoy thoughtfully crafted Eat Well menus featuring nourishing, sleep-supportive ingredients, while Move Well experiences from WestinWORKOUT® fitness studios and mindful movement classes to scenic outdoor activities, help travelers maintain healthy routines that naturally support better rest. Together, these pillars work in harmony with Sleep Well, creating an environment where guests can restore balance, energy, and clarity throughout their stay.

For more information on Westin Hotels & Resorts visit www.westin.com.

About Westin® Hotels & Resorts

Westin Hotels & Resorts, hospitality’s global leader in wellness for more than a decade, empowers guests to transcend the rigors of travel while on the road through the brand’s pillars of well-being: Sleep Well, Eat Well, and Move Well. At more than 245 hotels and resorts in 45 countries and territories, guests can benefit from distinct wellness experiences including the brand’s iconic and award-winning Heavenly® Bed, signature WestinWORKOUT® offerings such as its 24/7 Fitness Studios, WestinWORKOUT Routes, and its versatile Gear Lending program, delicious and nutritious menu offerings on their Eat Well menu, and more. For more information, please visit www.westin.com and stay connected on X, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Westin 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.

Media Contact
Saadhvi Mehra
Director Brand PR
Marriott International, Asia Pacific excluding China 
saadhvi.mehra@marriott.com

Laos to Nominate Five Traditions, Three Sites for UNESCO Status

Savannakhet Sets Stage for Biggest-Ever That Ing Hang Festival
Savannakhet Sets Stage for Biggest-Ever That Ing Hang Festival (photo credit: Lao Simply Beautiful)

Laos is preparing to put some of its most beloved traditions and landscapes before the world, with the government announcing plans to seek UNESCO recognition for five cultural practices and three landmark sites over the next five years.

The nominations form part of the broader 10th Five-Year National Socio-Economic Development Plan, but the cultural ambitions stand on their own.

The Traditions on the List

The five traditions being put forward for UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list are part of daily and ceremonial Lao life.

First, the national dish, Larb, which carries its meaning in its name, “luck” and “wealth” in Lao, and appears at every significant moment in Lao life, from weddings and birthdays to the Lao New Year. The Lao Business Women’s Association pushed the nomination forward, submitting a formal proposal through the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in early 2025. A UNESCO decision is expected in September 2026.

If approved, Larb would become Laos’ fourth UNESCO-recognised cultural element, joining traditional dance Fonelamvong Lao (2024), Naga motif weaving (2023), and Khaen music (2017).

Closely tied to those same celebrations is the Sou Khuan ceremony, also known as the Baci, which has also been submitted for consideration.

Rooted in animist beliefs and practiced alongside Buddhism, the ritual is built around the idea that each person has 32 protective spirits, or khouan, which can leave the body during illness, travel, or major life changes. Elders chant blessings around a decorative offering arrangement called a pha khouan, and white cotton strings are tied around participants’ wrists as symbols of protection and unity. It is performed at weddings, births, the Lao New Year, and other milestones.

The nomination has been submitted, but the formal evaluation process has not yet begun.

Rounding out the intangible heritage nominations are Pou Yer – Ya Yer, the mythical grandparents of Lao New Year; Boun Pi Mai Lao itself; and Khao Tom–Khao Lam, the preparation of sticky rice dishes carrying deep ritual and communal significance.

The Sites

Alongside the living traditions, three physical sites are being put forward for World Heritage status, each significant in its own way.

Nakai-Nam Theun National Park, one of the largest protected areas in Southeast Asia, is home to some of the region’s most endangered species across a landscape of extraordinary ecological diversity.

Further north, the Hintang Archaeological Park in Houaphanh Province holds hundreds of ancient stone menhirs whose origins remain only partially understood, lending the site a sense of mystery that matches its cultural weight.

The third site, That Ing Hang in Savannakhet Province, is among the most sacred Buddhist monuments in the country. Built in 1560 by King Setthathirath of the Lan Xang kingdom on the site of a pre-existing Khmer temple, the stupa is believed to enshrine a relic of the Buddha’s collarbone. Its architecture reflects both Lao and Khmer influences, and it has drawn pilgrims for centuries. Restored significantly in the 19th century, it remains an active place of worship today.

UNESCO inscription brings legal frameworks for protection, international funding, and a level of visibility that can change how a place or practice is preserved for generations.

The nominations are expected to be developed and submitted across the 2026–2030 period.

GoodWe and Six Star Plus Back the Victorian Homeless Fund with Solar and Storage Donations

SYDNEY, March 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As a renewable energy brand, GoodWe builds energy technology that supports everyday life, and sometimes that means helping families rebuild theirs.

Mary Aldred, MP for Monash (left) and Colleen May, Director of The Victorian Homeless Fund (right). Source: The Victorian Homeless Fund, LinkedIn
Mary Aldred, MP for Monash (left) and Colleen May, Director of The Victorian Homeless Fund (right). Source: The Victorian Homeless Fund, LinkedIn

GoodWe, in partnership with Six Star Plus and The Victorian Homeless Fund (VHF), donate and install solar and battery storage for homes that provide safety, stability, and a genuine fresh start.

In December 2025, VHF celebrated the opening of a new home in the Latrobe Valley, designed to support a family of five who had experienced significant hardship due to family violence. The home was built by the teams at Sherridon Homes and Brilley Co, and now under the care of Women’s Property Initiatives.

Why Solar and Storage Matter

A safe home matters, but so does the ability to afford living in it. For GoodWe, this project demonstrates how clean energy can have practical, tangible benefits. Solar generation, paired with the right battery storage, helps reduce running costs, increases day-to-day comfort, and adds resilience during high-demand periods.

This is also where Six Star Plus shines. For projects like this, the goal is not simply compliance or a tidy install, but a solution that genuinely improves a family’s day-to-day life. They bring the experience, the care, and the attention to detail that ensure these systems do what they are supposed to do, quietly and consistently.

The Latrobe Valley system details

For the Latrobe Valley home, Six Star Plus delivered a robust system suited to a busy household, using quality components and a configuration designed for real-world demand. The system includes 10.56 kW of solar, delivered through 24 RISEN RSM108-9-440N panels, paired with a GoodWe GW9900-ET-20 9.9 kW inverter, plus a GM3000. In practical terms, that means strong daytime generation, an efficient conversion setup, and a great foundation for adding storage in a way that maximises self-consumption and value.

GoodWe ESA energy storage for future homes

Six Star Plus and GoodWe currently have five projects in the pipeline with VHF, with at least one home to be built in 2026 and the possibility of two more starting shortly thereafter.

Looking ahead, all new homes in the program will include GoodWe’s all-in-one ESA Series energy storage solutions. This means families will not only generate clean electricity, but also store it for use when it matters most, including evenings, peak periods, and higher-cost times. The company’s ESA Series has recently expanded with a new three-phase residential model.

Storage helps households get more value from their solar, reduces grid reliance, and supports comfort through better load management. It is also a strong step towards making these homes future-ready as energy pricing, electrification, and household needs continue to evolve.

A milestone installation with broader impact

VHF highlighted that this Latrobe Valley project marked an important milestone as their first regional build. When a regional build succeeds, it proves that collaboration can travel, and it reinforces that every Victorian family deserves the same chance at safety and stability, no matter their postcode.

VHF also acknowledged the generous funding support from Loy Yang B Power Station and Alinta Energy, as well as the Payton Foundation Ltd for providing the land on which the home was built. Mary Aldred, MP for Monash, officially opened the home and spoke about how collaboration can help reduce homelessness.

To find out more about The Victorian Homeless Fund and make a donation, please visit www.vichomelessfund.org.au 

 

Otis Appoints Hemant Jolly as Senior Vice President & Managing Director, Australasia

SYDNEY, March 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Otis Worldwide Corporation (NYSE: OTIS), the world’s leading elevator and escalator manufacturing, installation, service and modernization company, has announced the appointment of Hemant Jolly as Senior Vice President & Managing Director, Otis Australasia, effective 1 March 2026. Based in Sydney, he will oversee operations across Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, Vanuatu, and Papua New Guinea.

Hemant Jolly, Senior Vice President & Managing Director, Otis Australasia
Hemant Jolly, Senior Vice President & Managing Director, Otis Australasia

Hemant will lead the organisation to meet evolving demands as infrastructure and city centres transform and require modernisation, population growth fuels the development of multi‑family housing, and interest in digital and sustainable solutions continues to increase, fostering a customer‑centric culture rooted in the Otis Absolutes of Safety, Ethics and Quality, ensuring the delivery of safe, reliable and high‑quality service.

“I’m honored to take on this role and to work with our talented teams across Australasia. Together, we will build on Otis’ strong foundation while continuing to bring an unparalleled experience to our customers thanks to our innovative Otis products and services and the expertise of our teams in delivering outstanding service,” said Hemant.

Hemant brings extensive experience in strategic transformation and business leadership in diverse markets across Asia Pacific and the United Kingdom. Most recently, he led the transformation and acceleration of Otis’ modernization business across Asia Pacific, while also leading corporate development and strategy for the region.

Hemant holds an MBA from IMI, Delhi and Bachelor of Commerce from Delhi University.

About Otis

Otis gives people freedom to connect and thrive in a taller, faster, smarter world. The global leader in the manufacture, installation, service and modernization of elevators and escalators, we move 2.5 billion people a day and maintain approximately 2.5 million customer units worldwide – the industry’s largest Service portfolio. You’ll find us in the world’s most iconic structures, as well as residential and commercial buildings, transportation hubs and everywhere people are on the move. Headquartered in Connecticut, USA, Otis is 72,000 people strong, including 45,000 field professionals, all committed to manufacturing, installing and maintaining products to meet the diverse needs of our customers and passengers in more than 200 countries and territories. To learn more, visit www.otis.com and follow us on LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook @OtisElevatorCo.