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CCTV+: China Up Close: Zhejiang Tour Explores Pinghu

BEIJING, Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The third leg of the CGTN “China Up Close Series: Zhejiang Tour” recently arrived in Pinghu to see how this city is balancing economic growth with a modern creative edge.

The China Up Close Series, launched in 2024 by China Global Television Network (CGTN), continues to showcase innovative-driven transformation in China. Since its debut in 2024, the program has chronicled development stories across multiple provinces including Fujian and Shanxi.


The media delegation included nearly 70 journalists and editors from 11 countries and regions — among them Kazakhstan, Spain, Malaysia and Bulgaria. Alongside CGTN, they trained their cameras and notebooks on the region, aiming to capture Pinghu’s distinctive appeal from multiple perspectives: technology-supported agriculture, rural revitalization, and industrial advances born from global collaboration.


Their itinerary included the “Wildwoods & Creek” rural tourism project in Xincang Township, AIoT Agri-Tech Innovation Park run by Zhejiang Houji Intelligent Technology, the Rowing Town project, and aerospace manufacturer Hwahoo’s facilities — each reflecting different aspects of Pinghu’s development strategy. Through these stops, the group saw firsthand how Pinghu blends rural heritage with technological progress.

 

CCTV+: When the Blue Danube Meets the Emerald Qiandao Lake

BEIJING, Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Gunther Riehle, a world top-ten photographer, hails from Germany, the source of the Danube River. Wu Zongqi, honorary chairman of the Zhejiang Photographers Association, calls China’s famous Qiandaohu Lake home. The two became friends at a photo contest over a decade ago, and their cross-border friendship has lasted 12 years. Wu has visited Germany, where he created piles of photos. This year, he wants to invite his German friend to see his hometown. What will spark off when the “Blue Danube” meets the “Emerald Qiandao Lake”?

 

 

Agoda Unveils Return Visitor Ranking of Asian Cities That Keep Travelers Coming Back for More

SINGAPORE, Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Digital travel platform Agoda has unveiled its latest Repeat Visitor Ranking, spotlighting the Asian city destinations that travelers just can’t resist revisiting. Based on booking data from the first half of the year, the ranking reveals the top 10 destinations with the highest number of repeat visitors. Topping the list are Bangkok, Tokyo, Seoul, Bali, and Osaka, each offering unique charms that keep travelers coming back for more.

Agoda's 2025 Return Visitor Rank
Agoda’s 2025 Return Visitor Rank

These destinations prove that sometimes, a single trip just isn’t enough. Travelers often find themselves drawn back to their favorite destinations, whether it’s to explore more of what they missed the first time, revisit beloved spots, or simply soak in the familiar atmosphere. Agoda’s data shows that many travelers even return to the same destination multiple times within the first six months of the year, proving the magnetic pull of these unforgettable places.

Bangkok, the perennial favorite, continues to captivate visitors with its vibrant street life, world-class dining, and cultural landmarks like the Grand Palace and Wat Arun. Tokyo, in second place, attracts repeat visitors with its charming neighborhoods, renowned culinary scene, and seasonal attractions like cherry blossoms and cultural festivals. The magnetic appeal of Seoul, rounding out the top three, lies in the draw of K-culture, shopping havens like Myeongdong, and historic sites such as Gyeongbokgung Palace.

Meanwhile, Bali, ranking fourth and often dubbed the “Island of the Gods,” enchants travelers with its serene beaches, lush rice terraces, and spiritual retreats. Completing the lineup of the top five is Osaka, with its reputation as Japan’s culinary capital, paired with its lively entertainment districts and proximity to Universal Studios Japan, makes it a must-return destination.

Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President, Supply at Agoda, shared, “There’s something magical about destinations that keep calling you back. Whether it’s Bangkok’s bustling markets, Tokyo’s futuristic vibe, or Bali’s breathtaking sunsets, these places have a way of leaving travelers wanting more. At Agoda, we’re thrilled to help people rediscover their favorite spots while making each trip even more memorable and rewarding.”

The ranking also highlights other popular return destinations, including Taipei (Taiwan), Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), Da Nang (Vietnam), Johor Bahru (Malaysia), and Hong Kong filling out the top ten. Each offers its own unique mix of attractions, from culinary delights to cultural experiences, ensuring there’s always something new to explore.

For travelers looking to revisit their favorite destinations or discover new ones, Agoda offers over 6 million holiday properties, more than 130,000 flight routes, and over 300,000 activities, all of which can be combined in a single booking. Visit the website at www.Agoda.com or download the mobile app for the best deals.

— ENDS —

TCL appoints Olympic ski champion Eileen Gu as Global Brand Ambassador

SHENZHEN, China, Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — TCL, a global technology company, has appointed freestyle skier Eileen Gu as their Global Brand Ambassador. Her appointment is part of TCL’s commitment to advancing the Olympic Movement as a Worldwide Olympic Partner.

Having become the youngest Olympic champion in freestyle skiing at the age of 18, and the first freestyle skier to win three medals at a single Winter Olympic Games, Gu perfectly embodies TCL’s motto “Inspire Greatness”.

“I’m thrilled to take on this exciting new role as Global Brand Ambassador for Team TCL,” said Eileen Gu. “TCL shares in the mission to change the world through passion and courage. Every time I hit the slopes, I push myself in the pursuit of progress. TCL shows the same attitude with its fearless vision and bold innovations. With the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 approaching, I look forward to celebrating every moment of aspiration and triumph with TCL.”

Gu’s appointment resonates strongly with TCL’s “TCLforHer” initiative, a platform advocating for women’s visibility and empowerment through technology and culture. Through “TCLforHer”, TCL has funded female-focused programs and educational initiatives, providing support for more than 2,000 young women.

Eileen Gu is an athlete who pushes boundaries,” said Wei Xue, Vice President and ESG Director of TCL Technology, and Chairman of the TCL Charity Foundation. “Her spirit and passion align with our vision to empower more women to achieve extraordinary lives. TCL looks forward to building on our collaboration as we work towards next year’s Winter Olympics.”

In February, TCL announced its Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partnership with the International Olympic Committee (IOC) in the Home Audiovisual Equipment and Home Appliances category. Building on this milestone, TCL was added to the Donor’s Wall at the Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland, in June. A commemorative stone was unveiled in recognition of TCL’s contribution. The company also launched its first global campaign to celebrate Olympic Day, featuring members of the acclaimed Urban Theory Dance Crew who performed at Milan Cathedral and the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles, linking these two Olympic host cities in a dynamic film.

Leading up to the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, TCL will build on its 30-year legacy in sports and leverage its cutting-edge technology to elevate the experience of both fans and athletes at the event. Its digital displays will bring the magic of the Games from competition venues to billions of viewers around the world. Initiatives to support athletes include providing home appliances at the Olympic Villages and the “Athlete Moments” platform, which will enable competitors to connect with loved ones immediately after their performances.

TCL appointed freestyle skier Eileen Gu as their Global Brand Ambassador, committed to advancing the Olympic Movement as a Worldwide Olympic Partner.
TCL appointed freestyle skier Eileen Gu as their Global Brand Ambassador, committed to advancing the Olympic Movement as a Worldwide Olympic Partner.

About TCL

Founded in 1981, TCL—short for “The Creative Life”—embodies creativity in every aspect of life. As a leading technology company, TCL is dedicated to delivering innovative solutions—including TVs, smartphones, audio products, smart home devices, display technologies, and clean energy—that enhance customer experiences through TCL Industries and TCL Technology.

As of now, with 46 R&D centers and 38 manufacturing bases globally, TCL operates in over 160 countries and regions, cementing its position as a globally competitive smart technology brand. To further inspire greatness, TCL has become an official Worldwide Olympic and Paralympic Partner in the Home Audiovisual Equipment and Home Appliances category.

About The International Olympic Committee

The International Olympic Committee is a not-for-profit, civil, non-governmental, international organisation which is committed to building a better world through sport. It redistributes more than 90 per cent of its income to the wider sporting movement, which means that every day the equivalent of USD 4.2 million goes to help athletes and sports organisations at all levels around the world.

Hecto Financial, making STO investment easier, continues to provide payment solutions to Yeolmae Company

  • Following subscriptions for Yeolmae Company No. 1, 2, and 3, Hecto Financial has supplied payment solutions for the No. 5 subscription
  • No need to open a separate account, improving convenience for investors’ payments and reducing issuers’ costs
  • Plans to continue collaboration with Yeolmae Company and contribute to revitalizing the domestic STO market

SEOUL, South Korea, Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Hecto Financial is lowering the barriers to STO investment with its account-based payment solution.

Fintech company Hecto Financial (KOSDAQ 234340, CEO Jong Won Choi) has provided its payment solution for the No. 5 investment contract securities of ‘Yeolmae Company,’ an operator of a fractional art investment platform.

Yeolmae Company recently completed the electronic disclosure with the Financial Supervisory Service for the No. 5 investment contract securities registration statement. The underlying assets of the No. 5 securities are the iconic work “Pumpkin (Untitled)” by world-renowned artist Yayoi Kusama and the solid gold piece “Golden Memories” by Zhang Xiaogang, called one of China’s “Four Heavenly Kings” of contemporary art. As before, Yeolmae Company is combining the two works for a joint issuance, with a total fundraising target of about KRW 800 million.

From July 18 to 24, Yeolmae Company carried out the subscription and payment process for No. 5-1 (Yayoi Kusama, “Pumpkin”), followed by No. 5-2 (Zhang Xiaogang, “Golden Memories”) from July 25 to 31.

As the issuer of Korea’s first investment contract securities, Yeolmae Company adopts Hecto Financial’s account-based payment solution, unlike most other fractional art investment platforms that primarily use securities accounts for payments.

Using Hecto Financial’s account-based payment solution to pay for investment contract securities eliminates the need to open a separate account, not only improving the convenience of payment for investors but also reducing issuance costs for the issuer.

A Hecto Financial representative stated, “Hecto Financial will continue to enhance payment convenience for investors in line with the expansion of Korea’s STO market, and will work closely with Yeolmae Company to help revitalize the domestic STO market.”

Hecto Financial is the only fintech company in Korea that owns the source infrastructure for all payment methods. Recently, in addition to STO payment solutions, it has been working on building a stablecoin distribution infrastructure. Based on its proprietary settlement system under the Electronic Financial Transactions Act, along with AML (Anti-Money Laundering) and Travel Rule compliance systems, Hecto Financial plans to expand its digital asset–based payment ecosystem through partnerships with various domestic and overseas stablecoin issuers and merchants.

STO (Security Token Offering) is a financial service that issues real-world assets as blockchain-based tokens, enabling “fractional investment.” It allows high-value assets, such as artworks or real estate, to be issued and made available for investment in small amounts. Meanwhile, in Korea, STO-related legislation is currently awaiting review, with institutionalization on the horizon.

About Hecto Financial

Hecto Financial is a company that, based on its leading position in cash-based easy payment solutions, provides a wide range of payment services—including firm banking, municipality-specific services, PG (payment gateway), and VAN (value-added network)—to the public sector, financial institutions, e-commerce, and platform industries. In particular, it focuses on settlement and remittance solutions for global e-commerce, expanding its presence in the fintech business sector.

From Differentiation to Emotional Connection: 180 Brand Talk 6.0 Returns to Help Brands Win Hearts

  • Many SMEs start by asking how to make customers choose their brand.
  • But the real question is—if customers don’t like a brand, there’s no reason for them to choose it.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 August 2025 – To break through this challenge, it all comes down to one thing: building an emotional connection that wins hearts.

Past Brandtalk event photo year 2024

Brand positioning means that when customers encounter a problem, they immediately think of that brand. This can’t be achieved simply by spending on ads—it takes the right approach to make that brand truly resonate.

Addressing the pain points and blind spots of SMEs, Chan Fong has hosted five editions of 180 Brand Talk over the past three years, helping hundreds of businesses uncover their unique points of differentiation and build a brand positioning that is distinctly their own.

This session’s speaker, Chan Fong, is not only a well-known radio DJ but also a veteran advertising professional with 28 years of experience who, together with the team at 180 Degrees Brandcom, has spent more than two decades rebranding renowned brands such as OGAWA, CUCKOO, EcoWorld, Knife, BRAND’s and more, as well as guiding countless SMEs from the ground up to establish a solid foundation and define their positioning.

“Managing a brand isn’t about creating demand, but recognising it,” Chan Fong emphasises. A brand that truly wins hearts always has a clear image, a distinctive personality, and well-defined differentiation.

From long-term observations, Chan Fong found that about 70–80% of SMEs in Malaysia are run by the Chinese community, yet many of these brands lack an emotional connection with consumers. Even with strong and distinctive points of differentiation, they often struggle to communicate them effectively due to the wrong approach. To address this, Chan Fong launched the 180 Brand Talk programme, drawing on practical experience to guide SMEs in defining their brand positioning and building emotional connections.

What Makes This Programme Stand Out

In the 180 Brand Talk programme, Chan Fong avoids abstract theories and marketing jargon. Drawing on 28 years of hands-on experience, the programme shares numerous local case studies that reflect the real challenges faced by Malaysian SMEs, enabling entrepreneurs to relate easily and apply the lessons learned. The programme also features dedicated discussion sessions with the 180 team, where participants can present their brand’s pain points and receive practical, actionable advice.

Whether they are new entrepreneurs taking their first steps or seasoned brand owners stuck at a standstill, this programme helps businesses find their next breakthrough.

From Differentiation to Emotional Connection: 180 Brand Talk 6.0 Programme Details:

Date: 9–10 September 2025 (Tuesday–Wednesday)
Time: 10:00am–6:00pm
Venue: Courtyard by Marriott KL South

Remark: This programme is recognised under Malaysia’s Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF). Eligible companies may apply for HRDF reimbursement claims.

Special Offer:

Register now and use promo code TN200 to enjoy an RM200 discount per ticket! Limited seats are available—first come, first served.
Registration link: https://givingtreeglobal.com/upcoming-event/chan-fong-brand-talk/
Hashtag: #180BrandingStrategicGuideline #branding #brandtalk6.0 #BrandStrategy #BuildYourBrand #BrandVision #BrandPositioning #BrandDifferentiation



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

VVDN Acquires GGS Engineering, Expanding its ER&D Portfolio in Automotive, MedTech and Aerospace Industries

GURUGRAM, India, Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — VVDN Technologies, a global provider of software, product engineering and electronics manufacturing services & solutions, today announced the acquisition of GGS Engineering Services, a leading engineering solutions company specializing in offering enhanced ER&D services for the Automotive, MedTech and Aerospace industries. 

With this acquisition, VVDN has onboarded engineers with two decades of experience in Mechanical Design, Analysis, Simulation, Virtual Manufacturing and Technical Publications.

The key benefits of this acquisition for OEMs include:

  • Innovative Product Development with Accelerated Time-to-Market.
  • Value Added Engineering for Cost Optimization.
  • Scalable Engineering Talent Solutions.

The integration of GGS Engineering’s mechanical and electrical expertise with VVDN’s embedded systems and manufacturing prowess creates a unique vertically integrated solution for OEMs across key industries such as:

  • Automotive: GGS enables OEMs to create innovative designs that meet modern consumer expectations. VVDN now will be addressing the sector’s rapidly evolving needs for cabin designs, vehicle electrification, NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) refinement, and cutting-edge styling and wire harness.
  • MedTech: VVDN will be serving MedTech customers with added portfolio by supporting them in the development of customized, precise, and efficient medical devices, implants, and surgical tools
  • Aerospace: Combined with GGS experience in CAD/CAM skillset, VVDN will be able to support OEMs and Tier 1s to design and manufacture complex aircraft components with precision and efficiency.

Together, VVDN & GGS set the stage for smarter machines, faster development, and stronger competitive advantages across industries. The combined entity will operate under the VVDN umbrella, with GGS’ leadership and founding teams continuing to play a pivotal role in the business.

Puneet Agarwal, CEO – VVDN Technologies: “We are delighted to welcome GGS Engineering Services into the VVDN family. Their proven excellence in mechanical engineering and design significantly enhances our value proposition to global clients. Our strengthened expertise now allows us to deliver comprehensive, cost-optimized product development for the automotive, medical, and aerospace industries—positioning VVDN to expand its footprint in automotive ER&D space. We look forward to working together to deliver accelerated innovation and end-to-end engineering leadership.”

This acquisition is a crucial step in VVDN’s growth strategy, enabling the company to aggressively penetrate the multi-billion-dollar global ER&D market and unlock new revenue opportunities across high-growth verticals.

Logo: https://laotiantimes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/vvdn_technologies_logo.jpg

 

New support group to provide social and community support for neurofibromatosis patients

Co-founded by individuals living with this rare genetic condition, the Neurofibromatosis Society Singapore seeks to close gaps in mental and emotional care

SINGAPORE, Aug. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A new patient-led support group, the Neurofibromatosis Society (NFS) Singapore, has been recently registered with the Registry of Societies to provide emotional, psychosocial, and financial support for people affected by neurofibromatosis (NF) – a rare genetic condition that causes the development of tumours affecting nerves on the skin, brain, spinal cord and other parts of the body.

The group participated in the inaugural Regional Rare Skin Patients Support Group Summit 2025, jointly organised by the Asian Society of Pediatric Dermatology (ASPD) and the Rare Skin Conditions Society Singapore (RSCS). Titled “Beyond the Surface”, the summit saw representatives from across Southeast Asia coming together to discuss the needs of those living with rare skin conditions.  

In Singapore, the number of individuals with NF is estimated to be in the hundreds, with NF Type 1 (NF1) being the most common diagnosis. NF1 manifests through symptoms such as multiple flat, light brown spots on the skin – known as “café au lait” spots – and soft bumps under or on the skin, called neurofibromas.[1],[2] Patients are primarily treated at multi-disciplinary clinics established in recent years at the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS) and KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH), where they can receive comprehensive care.

To further enhance patient support, healthcare providers from both institutions will work closely with NFS Singapore to provide guidance and care through a range of initiatives, including patient-led events, outreach and advocacy. Dr Nikki Fong, Consultant, Genetic Service at KKH, together with Clinical Assistant Professor Chiang Jianbang, Consultant, Cancer Genetics Service, NCCS, will be working closely with the group to guide their efforts and create a welcoming platform where NF patients can share their experiences and knowledge, helping them connect and build a strong support network.

“There is power in connection. Knowing you are not alone on this journey can be truly life-changing, whether you are a child or adult,” said Yessika Sutawijaya, 44, a co-founder of the group who was diagnosed at the age of eleven. “We hope that with NFS Singapore, we can help others on a similar journey find strength and live life fully, even in the face of challenges.”

As NF is often underdiagnosed, many patients live with feelings of isolation and a lack of information. This is often made worse by the social stigma and misunderstandings that come with visible changes in appearance, which can affect self-esteem and overall quality of life from childhood through adulthood.[3],[4]  

“Growing up with a rare, lifelong condition like NF can be especially challenging for children – not just physically, but emotionally and socially as well,” said Dr Fong. “Beyond medical treatment, young patients and their families need continual emotional and mental support. This group will play a pivotal role in addressing those unseen needs, complementing the clinical journey with peer and psychological support.”

Lai Chee Chong, 45, another co-founder of NFS Singapore, reflected on his own childhood, “As a child, living with NF affected my self-confidence. I found it difficult to make friends because people thought my condition was contagious. Now, I want to help create more awareness on NF.”

NFS Singapore was established in close collaboration with organisations such as RSCS, and with the support of corporates such as biopharmaceutical company AstraZeneca.

Ms Kim Suyeon, Country President, AstraZeneca Singapore, said, “AstraZeneca is committed to supporting an initiative that puts patients with NF at the heart of everything, ensuring they feel seen, heard, and supported beyond clinical care.”

Notes

This information has been provided to facilitate patient education and disease awareness only. It is not a complete guide to neurofibromatosis. For more information, please speak to your healthcare provider.

Approval code: SG-9695_CA_150825


[1]
 Tamura R. Current Understanding of Neurofibromatosis Type 1, 2, and Schwannomatosis. Int J Mol Sci. 2021;22:5850.

[2] Ly K, et al. The diagnosis and management of neurofibromatosis type 1. Med Clin North Am. 2019;103(6):1035-1054.

[3] Fournier, Hugo et al. Psychosocial implications of rare genetic skin diseases affecting appearance on daily life experiences, emotional state, self-perception and quality of life in adults: a systematic review. Orphanet journal of rare diseases. 2023; 18(1):39

[4] Cavallo, Nicola Davide et al. Neuropsychiatric Manifestations, Reduced Self-Esteem and Poor Quality of Life in Children and Adolescents with Neurofibromatosis Type 1 (NF1): The Impact of Symptom Visibility and Bullying Behavior. Children (Basel, Switzerland); 2023; 10(2): 330.