Home Blog Page 698

xTool Honors International Women’s Day with “Her Voice, Made Visible” Campaign Featuring Artist Domonique Brown

By
Advertorial Desk
-

LOS ANGELES, March 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — xTool, a global leader in desktop laser cutters, engravers, and smart fabrication tools, has successfully concluded its International Women’s Day campaign, “Her Voice, Made Visible.” The initiative spotlighted the stories and businesses of women makers, culminating in a vibrant “Maker Party” in Los Angeles designed to transform creative hobbies into sustainable legacies.

Since 2020, xTool has transitioned from a hardware provider to a primary catalyst for creative living. With approximately 40% of its user base identifying as women—spanning from home-based creators to small business owners—xTool remains dedicated to making advanced fabrication technology intuitive and accessible. The “Her Voice, Made Visible” campaign serves as a tangible commitment to this mission, providing the tools, software, and platforms necessary for women to achieve creative freedom and financial autonomy.

xTool’s "Her Voice, Made Visible" campaign spotlights the creative journey of women makers, featuring artist Domonique Brown.
xTool’s “Her Voice, Made Visible” campaign spotlights the creative journey of women makers, featuring artist Domonique Brown.

Spotlighting the Modern Maker: Domonique Brown

Central to the campaign was a collaboration with Domonique Brown, an artist, illustrator, and the founder of DomoINK. Brown represents the modern, tech-savvy “slashie” creator who balances her role as the Social Media Manager for the Tomb Raider franchise with a thriving side hustle.

Using the xTool F2 Ultra, Brown demonstrated how precision technology can amplify artistic expression. “I was told art should be delicate. But creating with xTool showed me something different,” said Brown. “With the right tools, creativity can be bold, precise, and unapologetic. Turning ideas into tangible pieces gives me confidence, control, and the ability to share my voice through what I make”. Brown’s journey, previously featured in Fortune and CNBC, serves as a blueprint for how xTool empowers women to “water their own gardens” and build their own brand legacies.

The Spotlight Stage: MakerFest Tour Los Angeles

On March 8, the campaign reached its peak at xTool MakerFest Tour Los Angeles, where the community transitioned from digital stories to physical craft. The event featured:

  • The Spotlight Wall: A curated physical gallery showcasing the intricate works and diverse stories of the xTool female community.
  • Live Workshops: Attendees gained hands-on experience by crafting alongside Domonique Brown, utilizing custom design files to create and take home personalized keepsakes, including tote bags, coasters, mirrors, and metal roses.
  • Connect & Learn: A dedicated space for women entrepreneurs to network, share business stories, and discuss scaling creative hobbies into full-time ventures.

Investing in the Future: 1% for the Makers

Reinforcing its pledge to the next generation of creators, xTool donated two professional-grade machines to prominent Los Angeles-based non-profits through its “1% for the Makers” program:

  • DIY Girls: An organization dedicated to increasing girls’ interest and success in technology and engineering through innovative educational experiences.
  • FCCW (Feminist Center for Creative Work): A community focused on providing essential resources and visibility for women in creative and technical arts.

“We believe that when women have the right tools, they don’t just create products – they create power,” said Stein Shi, US General Manager at xTool. “By supporting these organizations, we ensure the spirit of ‘Her Voice, Made Visible’ continues to inspire long after International Women’s Day.”

To explore the full xTool ecosystem and join our mission to empower makers everywhere, please visit www.xtool.com.

About xTool

xTool is a global leader in desktop laser cutters, engravers, and smart fabrication tools. Since 2020, xTool has empowered creators in over 62 countries, supported by 515 patents and 48 world-first innovations. xTool is transforming how people learn, create, and build—from classrooms to research labs, from garages to retail stores. Combining powerful technology with intuitive design, xTool makes advanced fabrication tools accessible to makers, educators, and entrepreneurs everywhere. Learn more at xTool.

 

Laos, Thailand Discuss Construction of Sixth Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge

By
Phoudasack Vongsay
-
A picture to illustrate a approximate location of the Sixth Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge.

Laos and Thailand held formal discussions on the proposed sixth Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge, a major infrastructure project aimed at strengthening transport links and cross-border trade between the two countries.

The meeting took place on 26 February at the Ministry of Public Works and Transport in Laos’ Vientiane Capital, where Minister Leklai Sivilay welcomed Perames Vudthitornetirak, President of Thailand’s Neighbouring Countries Economic Development Cooperation Agency (NEDA).

The planned bridge will span the Mekong River, connecting Salavanh Province in southern Laos with Ubon Ratchathani Province in Thailand. At approximately 1.6 kilometres in length, the structure forms part of a broader corridor covering around 23.4 kilometres of connecting roads on both sides of the border.

In terms of road connections, the Thai side will feature a 4.3-kilometer four-lane road linking the bridge to an existing highway, while the Lao side will include a 17.5-kilometer access road connecting to National Road No. 13 South in Lakhonepheng district, Salavan Province. 

To accommodate future traffic growth, the Lao government has also proposed upgrading this access road from two lanes to four lanes. 

Regarding costs, the total project is estimated at approximately THB 5.2 billion (around USD 165 million). Under the current proposal, Thailand will fund roughly 55 percent of construction costs, with Laos covering the remaining 45 percent. 

Budget approval is expected in 2028, with construction scheduled to begin in 2029 and the bridge opening for service in 2031.

Once completed, the bridge is expected to reduce transport costs, improve freight movement, and strengthen trade corridors connecting Laos and Thailand with Vietnam and China. The announcement follows the inauguration of the fifth Lao-Thai Friendship Bridge in late 2025.

Mining for key energy-transition minerals is not a major source of global greenhouse gas emissions, ICMM research finds

By
Advertorial Desk
-

New global dataset puts mining and metals emissions in perspective as demand for energy transition minerals grows

LONDON, March 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Today, ICMM publishes its new Global Mining & Metals Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Dataset, alongside an insights report that provides the most comprehensive, up-to-date picture of how the mining and metals sector scope 1 and scope 2 emissions contribute to global GHG emissions[1].

Global Mining & Metals Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Dataset
Global Mining & Metals Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Emissions Dataset

Key findings:

  • Mining for minerals important for the green energy transition and sustainable development is not a major source of GHG emissions.
    – Non-coal mining represented just 0.54% of global GHG emissions in 2024.
    – By comparison, fugitive emissions from coal, which must be phased out to meet global climate goals, accounts for 2.46% of global GHG emissions.
  • In total, scope 1 and 2 emissions from mining (3%) and metal processing (8%) in 2024, position the sector as the sixth largest source of global GHG emissions, contributing less than the power generation, transport and agriculture sectors and about as much as all other industrial processing activities.
  • Steel and aluminium production, along with coal mining, were the largest sources of GHG emissions overall, together responsible for 93 per cent of sector scope 1 and 2 emissions in 2024.
  • Demand for steel and aluminium, which are important for infrastructure underpinning the green transition, is forecast to increase in the coming years
    – Decarbonising steelmaking and aluminium smelting represent the most significant opportunities for sector-level decarbonisation
  • Approximately 80% of the sector’s global scope 1 and 2 emissions originate in Asia, reflecting both the concentration of primary mines and processing facilities for most global commodities in the region.

By combining facility-level data from 1,700 facilities across 14 commodities representing 87% of global production, and modelling emissions using regional commodity-level averages for the remaining (13%) production volume, the dataset captures an industry-wide total of scope 1 and 2 emissions in 2024. The dataset is designed for high–level sector and regional insights only and is not suitable for benchmarking companies or assets, or for assessing corporate progress against targets. In contrast to corporate-level data, this dataset offers an industry-wide picture, explores regional and commodity-specific emissions profiles and allows comparison of mining and metals GHG emissions with emissions from other major industries. The findings offer important context at a time when demand for minerals and metals is rising rapidly to support the global energy transition and the infrastructure and urbanisation needs of a growing population.

As the world progresses towards the goal of tripling renewable energy capacity by 2030, demand for minerals and metals is projected to grow significantly, reflecting the sector’s essential role in building clean technologies. At the same time, producing these materials is energy-intensive, which means the mining and metals industry is both a contributor to GHG emissions and a key enabler of the energy transition. By publishing this dataset – the second in a planned series of data-backed reports – ICMM’s intention is to strengthen our collective understanding of the mining and metals sector’s contribution to GHG emissions and support informed decision-making for policymakers, investors and all relevant stakeholders.

Dr Emma Gagen, Director of Data and Research, ICMM: “Despite our sector’s importance to the energy transition, up-to-date, publicly available and industry-wide data has been lacking, contributing to the circulation of misleading estimates. ICMM’s Global Mining & Metals GHG Emissions Dataset provides data and data-driven insights to underpin more informed dialogue about the sector’s contribution to global GHG emissions while providing the building blocks for sustainable development and the global energy transition.

“Like all large-scale datasets, this one will evolve, but establishing a transparent, industry-wide baseline is a necessary starting point. Inferred implications from the Dataset are provided separately from the data itself to allow others to be curious and make their own judgements. We invite all interested stakeholders to engage with the data, provide feedback or supplementary data to help improve its coverage, and collaborate with us further.” 

Notes to editors

Like all large-scale datasets, the data has limitations based on boundaries we have set for quality control and will evolve through further collaborations. Certain refining stages (e.g., gold, silver, cobalt, platinum group metals, lead) and some gases (e.g., hydrofluorocarbons, SF₆) are excluded due to data limitations. See the Limitations section of our report for further information.

This Dataset and report are part of ICMM’s wider Global Mining Data Project that aims to significantly improve the quality and accessibility of industry-wide information by building robust, transparent data that can inform policy and advance wider discussions about mining and metals’ evolving role in sustainable development.

Methodology

To prepare the dataset we partnered with Wood Mackenzie who used a proprietary method aligned with the GHG Protocol to calculate facility-level emissions for approximately 1,700 facilities that they have sufficient information on and to model the emissions from the production gap not covered by facility-level information. For the facility-level emissions, data was not aggregated from public sources; it was calculated so as to ensure a consistent method across the dataset. This facility-level modelling approach is distinct from corporate GHG inventories prepared by individual mining companies under the GHG Protocol, which are compiled at the organisational level based on operational control and materiality, and for scope 2 emissions, typically determined using both location-based and market-based methods.

Wood Mackenzie calculated the coverage of their facility-level data by comparing production volumes from these facilities with global production volumes for each of the 14 commodities that are included in our analysis. Facility–level modelling covers ~87% of production for the 14 commodities; the remaining ~13% was approximated using regional commodity averages. Facility-level data will not be made public in the dataset or the report, as it is Wood Mackenzie’s proprietary data. However, it was used to allow us to estimate scope 1 and 2 emissions for the missing global production volume that was not covered with their facility-level calculations.

Please see the Methodology section of the Report for further details. 

About ICMM

ICMM stands for mining with principles. We bring together a third of the global metals and mining industry, along with key partners to drive leadership, action and innovation for sustainable development, ultimately delivering a positive contribution to society. Through collaboration, ICMM member companies set the standard for responsibly produced minerals and metals in a safe, just and sustainable world.

[1] The dataset is a modelled, sector–level estimate, not an aggregation of company–reported inventories. It is not intended to infer corporate progress towards decarbonisation targets, or asset level performance.

Ascletis Announces Positive Topline Results from U.S. Phase II, 24-Week Study for Its Ultra-Long-Acting Subcutaneous Depot Formulations of Small Molecule GLP-1R Agonist ASC30 for Obesity

By
Advertorial Desk
-

–    ASC30 subcutaneous (SQ) depot formulation achieved statistically significant and clinically meaningful placebo-adjusted mean weight loss of 7.5% at week 16 after three monthly doses.

–    ASC30 SQ depot formulation maintained weight loss for the four months following the third and final monthly dose, suggesting potential quarterly dosing as a maintenance therapy.

–    ASC30 demonstrated a safety and tolerability profile consistent with the GLP-1 drug class.

–    ASC30 SQ depot formulation is the first GLP-1 to achieve drug class consistent weight loss with once-monthly injection without requiring lead-in weekly injections, and to maintain weight loss up to four months after the last dose.

HONG KONG, March 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Ascletis Pharma Inc. (HKEX: 1672, “Ascletis”) announces positive topline results from a U.S. Phase II, 24-week study for its subcutaneous (SQ) depot formulations of small molecule GLP-1 receptor (GLP-1R) agonist ASC30 for obesity (NCT06679959). All 65 participants enrolled in three cohorts utilizing two formulations (A1 and A2) were obese or overweight with at least one weight-related comorbidity.

The Phase II study achieved its primary endpoint, with patients receiving three doses of once-monthly ASC30 SQ depot formulation A1 demonstrating a statistically significant (p < 0.05 vs placebo) and clinically meaningful placebo-adjusted mean weight loss of 6.3% at week 12. Additionally, ASC30 SQ depot formulation A1 achieved a statistically significant (p < 0.05 vs placebo) and clinically meaningful placebo-adjusted mean weight loss of 7.5% at week 16 after 3 monthly doses.

The Phase II study was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled and multi-center 24-week study conducted in the U.S. to evaluate the safety, tolerability and efficacy in 65 participants with obesity (body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2) or overweight (BMI ≥ 27 kg/m2 but < 30 kg/m2) with at least one weight-related comorbidity. All 65 participants were given three monthly ASC30 SQ depot doses or matching placebo at day 1, day 29 (week 4) and day 57 (week 8), without requiring lead-in weekly doses. The maintenance period was 16 weeks, starting from week 8 to week 24. The study evaluated two SQ depot formulations of ASC30 (A1 and A2). The study objective was to evaluate the potential for once-monthly dosing for treatment therapy and once-quarterly dosing for maintenance therapy. ASC30 SQ depot formulation A1 was previously studied in the 12-week Phase Ib single dose study (NCT06679959) and demonstrated an observed half-life of 46 days to 75 days. No human studies of ASC30 SQ depot formulation A2 were conducted previously. Formulation A1 achieved therapeutic drug exposures in obese patients in this study while formulation A2 did not.

For ASC30 SQ depot formulation A1, all participants were given three SQ doses of 400 mg each with a four-week dosing interval at day 1, day 29 (week 4) and day 57 (week 8). ASC30 SQ depot formulation A1 achieved placebo-adjusted mean body weight loss of 2.7%, 5.5%, 6.3%, and 7.5% at week 4, week 8, week 12 and week 16, respectively. The data demonstrate that ASC30 SQ depot formulation A1 can be dosed once monthly and potentially once every two months for the treatment of obesity without requiring a weekly lead-in dosing period.

This Phase II study also evaluated the potential for ASC30 SQ depot formulation A1 to be used as a maintenance therapy. Patients in the study were evaluated for duration of effect for 16 weeks following the final dose on week 8. ASC30 SQ depot formulation A1 achieved therapeutic drug exposures over this 16-week maintenance period after the final dose. Placebo-adjusted mean weight loss was 5.5% at week 8, 6.4% at week 20 (three months following the final dose), and 5.8% at week 24 (four months following the final dose). These results demonstrate that ASC30 SQ depot formulation A1 has the potential to be an effective once-quarterly maintenance therapy for obesity.

ASC30 SQ depot formulations A1 and A2 were safe and well tolerated, demonstrating a safety and tolerability profile consistent with the GLP-1 drug class. There were no discontinuations due to adverse events (AEs) for either ASC30 SQ depot formulations A1 and A2 or placebo-treated participants. All AEs, including injection site AEs, were mild to moderate in severity. All gastrointestinal (GI) AEs were mild (grade 1) with no moderate (grade 2) or above GI AEs. No hepatic safety signal was observed. In addition, there were no abnormal findings in laboratory tests, vital signs, ECGs (electrocardiograms, including QTc intervals), and physical exams.

“We are very excited to observe this statistically significant and clinically meaningful weight loss in obese patients treated with ASC30 long acting SQ depot formulation. ASC30 is the first and only incretin that has demonstrated effective weight loss with once-daily oral dosing, once-monthly SQ dosing for treatment therapy and once-quarterly SQ dosing for maintenance therapy in two Phase II studies for obesity,” said Jinzi Jason Wu, Ph.D., Founder, Chairman and CEO of Ascletis. “This competitive efficacy, combined with a well-tolerated safety profile of the long-acting formulation of ASC30, reinforces our confidence in expanding clinical development program for ASC30 SQ depot formulation for both once-monthly treatment therapy and once-quarterly maintenance therapy. Furthermore, the data from this 24-week study with our proprietary SQ depot formulation validate Ascletis’ Ultra-Long-Acting Platform (ULAP) technology for the development of once-monthly to once-quarterly therapies for chronic weight management.”

ASC30 was discovered and developed in-house at Ascletis as the first and only investigational small molecule GLP-1R biased agonist designed to be administered once daily orally and once monthly to once quarterly subcutaneously as a treatment therapy and a maintenance therapy for chronic weight management.

About ASC30

ASC30 is an investigational GLP-1R biased small molecule agonist and has unique and differentiated properties that enable the same small molecule for both oral tablet and subcutaneous injection administrations. ASC30 is a new chemical entity (NCE), with U.S. and global patent protection through 2044 (excluding potential patent extensions).

About Ascletis Pharma Inc.

Ascletis Pharma Inc. is a fully integrated biotechnology company focused on the development and commercialization of potential best-in-class and first-in-class therapeutics to treat metabolic diseases. Utilizing its proprietary Artificial Intelligence-assisted Structure-Based Drug Discovery (AISBDD) and Ultra-Long-Acting Platform (ULAP) technologies as well as Peptide Oral Transport ENhancement Technology (POTENT), Ascletis has developed multiple drug candidates in-house, including both small molecules and peptides, such as its lead program, ASC30, a small molecule GLP-1R agonist designed to be administered once daily orally and once monthly to once quarterly subcutaneously as a treatment therapy and a maintenance therapy for chronic weight management; ASC36, an amylin receptor peptide agonist, ASC35, a once-monthly subcutaneously administered GLP-1R/GIPR dual peptide agonist and ASC37, a GLP-1R/GIPR/GCGR triple peptide agonist for chronic weight management. Ascletis is listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (1672.HK).

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

Contact：

Peter Vozzo
ICR Healthcare
443-231-0505 (U.S.)
Peter.vozzo@icrhealthcare.com

Ascletis Pharma Inc. PR and IR Teams
+86-181-0650-9129 (China)
pr@ascletis.com
ir@ascletis.com

Asia Dive Expo (ADEX) Scales Up in Its 32nd Year with New Ocean Conservation Experiences and Broader Public Appeal

By
Advertorial Desk
-

SINGAPORE, March 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — ADEX Big Blue Legacy 32nd Edition (Singapore Ocean Week) 2026 returns to Suntec Singapore from April 10 to 12, 2026, bringing together the global diving, ocean and sustainability community for Asia’s largest and longest-running dive expo. Designed as a content-rich platform beyond a conventional trade exhibition, ADEX delivers a three full-day multi-stage programme spanning keynote sessions, discussions, performances and emerging themes across the ocean sector.

Held as part of Singapore Ocean Week, this year’s edition is dedicated to the protection of the Humphead Wrasse and driven by the sustainability theme “The Blue Revolution: “Reduce, Innovate, Reuse,” reinforcing the industry’s commitment to responsible ocean conservation. The event is expected to welcome more than 20,000 visitors across the three days, highlighting its scale and continued growth.

“As ADEX marks 32 years, we are evolving the platform to reach beyond divers and engage the broader public in ocean awareness and conservation. By connecting diving with culture, innovation and education, we aim to grow a deeper appreciation for the ocean,” says John Thet, Chief Executive Officer, ADEX.

What’s New in 2026

  • Launch of the Blue Legacy Awards in Singapore
  • Enhanced technical diving education through Tek Asia by OZTek & ADEX
  • Expanded Ocean Tribes cultural program and charity auction with Seakeepers
  • Broader sustainability and blue-economy programming

Why Attend

ADEX offers three days of international conferences, live judging competitions, underwater performances, creative festivals, hands-on workshops, family-friendly activities, dive tourism showcases, and industry forums, making it a must-attend platform for professionals, enthusiasts, creatives, and ocean advocates.

Guest of Honour

Mr Alvin Tan
Minister of State for Trade & Industry and National Development – Singapore

Notable Speakers

Notable speakers include world-renowned explorer and cave diving pioneer Jill Heinerth (Canada); Emmy Award-winning wildlife cinematographer Cristian Dimitrius (Brazil); marine scientist and former National Geographic Pristine Seas Chief Scientist Dr Alan Friedlander (USA); Underwater Photographer of the Year 2025 Álvaro Herrero (Mekan) (Spain); international photojournalist and filmmaker Aaron Gekoski (UK); and underwater stunt performer and instructor Liz Parkinson (UK), whose film credits include Avatar: The Way of Water and Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.

They are joined by a diverse international line-up of explorers, scientists, filmmakers, photographers, artists and ocean advocates from around the world.

Supported By – Official Partners

ADEX Big Blue Legacy 2026 is proudly supported by its official partners and sponsors, including the Official Country Partner, Tourism Promotions Board Philippines; Official Dive Safety Partner, DAN World; Official Underwater Housing Partner, SEACAM; Official Hotel Partner, M Hotel Singapore; Official Car Partner, BMW & Performance Motors; Official Bag Sponsors, Wonderful Indonesia and PADI.

These partners, together with many supporting sponsors and leading local and global exhibitors, come together to deliver another exciting year of ADEX for the region, strengthening collaboration, innovation, and community engagement across the industry.

Tickets

Tickets are available from SGD 10 for a one-day standard pass, with options for three-day passes as well as Tek Asia Conference, Workshop tickets, and side events tickets, via the official ADEX website www.adex.asia.

Ticket Link: ADEX BIG BLUE LEGACY (SINGAPORE OCEAN WEEK) 2026 Tickets, Fri, Apr 10, 2026 at 10:00 AM | Eventbrite

Inside ADEX 2026: Programme Highlights

The 32nd edition of the Asia Dive Expo, Asia’s largest and longest-running dive expo, will be held during Singapore Ocean Week to celebrate ocean-related industries, culture, and conservation. ADEX 2026 will be dedicated to the Humphead Wrasse, raising awareness for its protection, and to The Blue Revolution: Reduce, Innovate, Reuse, a commitment to promoting sustainability in ocean and diving practices.

Date: April 10–12, 2026
Venue: Suntec Convention & Exhibition Centre, Singapore
Website: www.adex.asia

ADEX 2026 will feature key segments like TeK Asia by OZTek & ADEX, the Blue Legacy Awards, the Ocean Tribes Festival, Voice of the Ocean Underwater photo+video+art competition, and the Underwater Performance Competition, alongside a wide range of educational, cultural, and industry programmes.

Other highlights include photography workshops, dive tourism showcases, Blue Economy zone, dive education and safety programmes, SCUBA360 Business Forum, Ocean Artists Gallery, freediving, underwater sports, free scuba try-dives, Kids’ Zone, and Surface Interval (for diver health and fitness).

See all speakers: www.adex.asia/adex-big-blue-legacy-singapore-ocean-week-2026-speakers
See all exhibitors: www.adex.asia/adex-big-blu-legacy-singapore-exhibitor-profile-2026
Tickets: www.eventbrite.sg/e/adex-big-blue-legacy-singapore-ocean-week-2026-tickets-1343395083859

1. Tek Asia by OZTek & ADEX

A collaboration between the iconic OZTeK Advanced Diving Conference and Singapore’s ADEX Show, Tek Asia is a dedicated technical diving conference taking place from April 10–12, 2026, as part of ADEX Big Blue Legacy (Singapore Ocean Week) 2026.

With a line-up of world-renowned explorers, technologists, scientists, and educators, the programme includes cave and wreck diving, cutting-edge rebreather developments, commercial and scientific practices, hyperbaric medicine, marine archaeology, diver safety, and more. Through seminars, workshops, and presentations, this ticketed event showcases the latest techniques and technologies shaping the future of diving.

Website: www.adex.asia/tek-asia-2026
Conference and Workshop Schedule: TEKAsia 2026 Program | ADEX
Tickets: www.eventbrite.sg/e/tekasia-2026-by-oztek-adex-tickets-1861418295229

2. Blue Legacy Awards 2026

Launched for the first time in Singapore, the Blue Legacy Awards (Seakeeper Charity Gala Dinner) debuts in conjunction with the 32nd edition of Asia Dive Expo (ADEX), recognising excellence across the ocean, dive, and blue-economy community. The Blue Legacy Awards 2026 will honour individuals and organisations worldwide for leadership, innovation, conservation, creativity, and community impact, with awards presented at both Asia and Global levels.

The awards culminate in the Blue Legacy Awards Night 2026 in association with SeaKeepers, a Charity Auction and Gala Dinner supporting ocean conservation, marine research, and education. More than 40 awards will be presented across Sports & Education, Ocean Tourism, Arts & Science, and Individual Excellence, alongside the Hans Hass Diving to Adventure Award, the Blue Legacy Award, and a charity auction.

The Hans Hass Award is an international honour recognising individuals and organisations whose work has significantly advanced ocean exploration, science and innovation. Named after pioneering explorer Hans Hass, the award celebrates exceptional contributions to global ocean understanding. Past recipients include deep-sea explorer Victor Vescovo, marine scientist Dr Sylvia Earle and filmmaker James Cameron, reflecting the award’s global prestige and impact.

Website: BLUE LEGACY AWARDS 2026 | ADEX
Nominations: Blue Legacy Awards 2026 Form | ADEX
Tickets: BLUE LEGACY AWARDS 2026 Tickets, Fri, Apr 10, 2026 at 7:00 AM | Eventbrite

3. Asian Geo Ocean Tribes Festival

Taking place on April 11, 2026 at Suntec Singapore as part of Singapore Ocean Week and ADEX Big Blue Legacy 2026, the Asian Geo Ocean Tribes Festival delivers a “Wave of Hope for the Ocean,” uniting fashion, music, film, art, and sustainability into one shared cultural platform. The festinval is a culmination of the Sound Shower Soulwave Music Festival, the sustainable fashion segment and the ADEX Ocean Film Festival, bringing together international creatives, high-energy performances, and powerful storytelling to celebrate ocean culture, strengthen community connection, and drive greater awareness and action for ocean conservation.

Website: www.adex.asia/adex-32nd-edition-singapore-ocean-week-2026-ocean-tribes-festival

4. Voice of the Ocean

ADEX Voice of the Ocean is the official photo, video, and art competition of ADEX Singapore. Taking place alongside ADEX Big Blue Legacy, the 32nd edition of Singapore Ocean Week from April 10 to 12, 2026, the competition concludes with a live judging event where an international expert panel selects winners and runners-up across categories including Animal Behaviour, Blackwater, Conservation, Smartphone, Ocean Planet (Drone and Over-Under Photography), Underwater Arts, Short Film, and Portfolio, as well as crowning the ADEX Photographer of the Year 2026.

Submissions are open from December 10, 2025 to March 17, 2026, with the Portfolio winner receiving a SEACAM housing valued at US$10,000 and additional prizes awarded across all categories. Winners will be announced live at ADEX and published via official platforms and global media partners, with 15% of entry proceeds donated to marine conservation initiatives.

Website: www.adex.asia/voo-2026
Submissions: December 10, 2025–March 17, 2026

5. AquaPoetics (Underwater360 Performance Art Competition)

AquaPoetics will debut at ADEX Big Blue Legacy 2026, introducing a new underwater performance art competition where breath, movement, and silence become storytelling tools beneath the surface. Combining freediving, choreography, and visual expression within a transparent performance tank, AquaPoetics will offer live audiences a rare, cinematic experience combining art, ocean awareness, and human connection. Preliminary performances will take place during ADEX Big Blue Legacy on April 10–11, 2026, with a live finale at the Ocean Tribes Music Festival in Singapore.

Website: ADEX Singapore 2026 – AquaPoetics 2026 | ADEX
Submissions: December 10, 2025–March 10, 2026

Other Events and Highlights

  • Sustainable and Underwater Photography Workshops
  • Dive Centre and Liveaboard Tourism Showcase
  • Blue Economy Zone
  • Dive Safety and Dive Education Programmes
  • SCUBA360 Business Forum
  • The Big Blue Book (Asian Diver)
  • Ocean Artists Gallery
  • Underwater Hockey and Rugby
  • Free Scuba Try-Dives
  • Kids’ Zone
  • Surface Interval – health and fitness for divers

Marking 32 successful years as Asia’s longest-running dive expo, ADEX Big Blue Legacy 32nd Edition (Singapore Ocean Week) 2026 brings the international dive and ocean community together in an event that should not be missed.

Media Contact

Mihiri S. Korala
PR Manager, Asia Dive Expo (ADEX)
Mihiri@uw360.asia 
+94 777 706 009

Kimberly Niu
Event and Marketing Manager, Asian Geographic Magazine/Asia Dive Expo (ADEX)
Kimberly@asiangeo.com 
+65 8135 4120

 

Roland Berger strengthens its battery consulting business through the acquisition of Alexec Consulting

By
Advertorial Desk
-
MUNICH, GERMANY /WROCLAW, POLAND – Newsaktuell – 10 March 2026 – Roland Berger today announced the acquisition of Alexec Consulting, a consulting firm headquartered in Wroclaw, Poland. The firm specializes in operational and technical solutions for the global battery and electric vehicle sectors.

The battery sector has become critical to the global economy. Roland Berger experts project worldwide investment across the battery value chain amounting to EUR 850 – 900 billion by 2035. Global demand for battery cells is forecast to grow by 12% annually by 2035, with Europe’s demand rising even faster at 17%.

“Batteries are integral to critical infrastructure, data centers, and the path towards climate neutrality. The global battery markets are at a strategic tipping point, requiring rapid industrial execution,” says Marcus Berret, Global Managing Director at Roland Berger. “At Roland Berger, our strength has always been our deep industry expertise. With Alexec Consulting, we are welcoming highly skilled technical experts to further enhance how we support and create value for our clients. The acquisition is another milestone of our global growth strategy.”

Founded in 2020, Alexec Consulting has established itself as a high-impact player in the battery ecosystem. Its services range from consulting on battery-cell and system R&D operations, to cost improvements and factory and supply chain operations. Alexec Consulting has a proven track record in managing mission-critical task forces for leading global automotive manufacturers and battery producers.

“Joining forces with Roland Berger is the ideal way for us to scale our business globally,” says Idriss Alami, Managing Partner of Alexec Consulting. “Through Roland Berger’s international network and strong brand, we gain access to new markets and top-tier clients.” Jan Wasserbaech, Partner of Alexec Consulting, adds: “By combining our deep technical DNA with Roland Berger’s strategic excellence, we can now support the industry from the initial concept through the whole industrialization and factory ramp-up. We look forward to building the future of electromobility as part of Roland Berger.”

Roland Berger and Alexec Consulting have a history of successful collaboration on various projects for global players. By pooling their strengths, the two companies are creating a center of excellence for the battery industry that addresses critical market demands, such as technical supplier management and industrial ramp-up projects. The acquisition underlines Roland Berger’s commitment to scaling in high-growth, strategically critical industrial sectors. The transaction was closed on the 9th of March 2026. Alexec Consulting continues to operate as a stand-alone entity under its existing brand within the Roland Berger network.

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

About Roland Berger

Roland Berger is one of the world’s leading strategy consultancies with a wide-ranging service portfolio for all relevant industries and business functions. Founded in 1967, the firm is headquartered in Munich. Roland Berger is particularly known for its expertise in transformation, cross-industry innovation and performance improvement, and supports numerous international clients in implementing AI-driven initiatives. The firm is also committed to embedding sustainability in all its projects. In 2024, Roland Berger generated revenues of around EUR 1 billion.

Huawei and China Telecom Win GSMA GLOMO for Enhancing the Lives of Children and Young People

By
Advertorial Desk
-

BARCELONA, Spain, March 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Huawei and China Telecom received the GSMA GLOMO for Best Mobile Innovation for Enhancing the Lives of Children and Young People under the Tech4Good category at MWC 2026 Barcelona for the Qingjiao Plan in China’s Langcang County.

Developed by China Social Entrepreneur Foundation (CSEF) and launched in 2019, the Qingjiao Plan uses China Telecom’s 5G network and Huawei’s WeLink platform to provide learning resources and an online community for teacher training to benefit rural students and teachers in underserved areas.

“Aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the Qingjiao Plan meaningfully bridges the urban-rural divide in terms of education equity,” said Cui Yangyang, Director of the TECH4ALL Program Office for Huawei. “It equips the current generation of students in remote areas with the learning resources they need to flourish in the digital world.”

To date, the project has trained nearly 180,000 young rural teachers across China, indirectly benefiting tens of millions of students. In Langcang County, the project has provided training for 600 primary and secondary school teachers, benefiting 5,000 students.

The judging panel for the GLOMOs comprises more than 200 independent industry experts, including analysts, journalists, academics, and CTOs from around the world.

The judging panel gave the following comments on the Qingjiao Plan: “Impressive in scale and with the potential to benefit a huge number of young students. Offering multiple benefits at once, the connectivity and the teacher resources make this a well-rounded solution.”

Qingjiao Plan partner roles

CSEF: With government support, CSEF identifies outstanding teachers from across China to share their expertise online and provide education resources to enhance the capabilities of rural teachers and thus improve student outcomes.

Huawei: Implemented under Huawei’s TECH4ALL digital inclusion program, Huawei Cloud’s WeLink platform provides an interactive, online teaching platform that connects schools, students, and teachers. Students in under-resourced rural areas can receive remote multimedia lessons and enjoy the same learning experience as their urban peers. 

China Telecom provides its 5G and optical network infrastructure to deliver nationwide connection services for rural areas by integrating its campus 5G and Wi-Fi networks. The network solution supports seamless roaming and the secure management of various terminals between mobile and fixed networks.

At this year’s award, the Huawei TECH4ALL Skills on Wheels campaign was also shortlisted in the Marketing Excellence category Marketing for Good.

About TECH4ALL

TECH4ALL is Huawei’s long-term digital inclusion initiative and action plan. Powered by innovative technologies and partnerships, TECH4ALL is designed to enable an inclusive and sustainable digital world.

Visit the Huawei TECH4ALL website at https://www.huawei.com/en/tech4all

Follow us on X at https://x.com/HUAWEI_TECH4ALL

Cigna Healthcare Hong Kong Launches Health Moves Community Initiatives in Third Year of HYROX Partnership

By
Advertorial Desk
-

New programs aim to boost active living and community engagement across Hong Kong ahead of Cigna Healthcare HYROX Hong Kong 2026

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 March 2026 – Cigna Healthcare Hong Kong today announced the third year of its partnership with the world‑renowned HYROX fitness competition, reflecting its commitment to active lifestyles, preventive health, and community engagement.

Cigna Healthcare HYROX Hong Kong 2026
Cigna Healthcare HYROX Hong Kong 2026

Cigna Healthcare Hong Kong first partnered with HYROX to launch the inaugural HYROX Open Asian Championship in 2024. Returning to AsiaWorld-Expo from 8–10 May 2026, HYROX continues its rapid growth in Hong Kong, supported by Cigna Healthcare, with over 17,500 racers already registered for the upcoming race.
Cigna Healthcare Hong Kong’s purpose is to help people improve their health and vitality. Beyond sponsorships, the health benefits provider brings employees, customers, and partners together through programs that make active living and prevention part of everyday life in the community.

“Cigna Healthcare Health Moves”: Expanding Preventive Health Beyond HYROX Race Day
Cigna Healthcare Hong Kong is expanding engagement beyond race day with Cigna Healthcare Health Moves, a series of initiatives that promote regular physical activity as part of preventive health.

The first initiative, the Cigna Healthcare Community Run, will launch on 18 April 2026 under the theme Empower Your Health Moves. It brings together an inspiring lineup of celebrities and renowned athletes including Hong Kong Singer‑songwriter Mr. On Chan (陳建安), and Hong Kong Women’s High Jump Record Holder Ms. Cecilia Yeung (楊文蔚). Mr. On Chan and Ms. Cecilia Yeung will join Cigna’s customers and the broader community for guided runs and HYROX‑themed training sessions.

Members of the public are welcome to join the Cigna Healthcare Community Run, and details are as follow:

Date: 18 April 2026 (Saturday)
Time: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Assembly point: HOW To Live Well (4/F, Hysan Place, Causeway Bay)
Route: Around 5km, From Causeway Bay to Happy Valley and return
Level: Entry-level, suitable for beginner runners
Quota: 120 (Available on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants will be grouped based on their running pace and will start in different groups.)

Cigna Healthcare Hong Kong’s Long-Term Commitment to Community Health and Vitality
Cigna Healthcare Hong Kong will also deepen engagement with corporate clients and business partners by partnering with HYROX‑affiliated gyms to offer structured training programs in the coming months. These shared experiences strengthen relationships and reinforce Cigna Healthcare Hong Kong’s role as a trusted partner in everyday health and vitality.

Jonathan Spiers, CEO at Cigna Healthcare Hong Kong, said: “Cigna Healthcare HYROX Hong Kong has proven to be a powerful platform for promoting preventive health. This year, we are proud to encourage active participation from our employees, clients, and business partners. I am especially proud of Cigna Healthcare Health Moves, our new community initiative, which enables us to engage a broader audience and reflects our long‑term commitment to the people of Hong Kong. Together, we aim to inspire our community to move more, live well, and thrive.”

Cigna Healthcare Health Moves will run in the lead‑up to Cigna Healthcare HYROX Hong Kong 2026, with program updates shared via Cigna Healthcare Hong Kong’s social media channels. More information about Cigna Healthcare HYROX Hong Kong 2026 is available at: https://www.cigna.com.hk/campaign/hyrox2026/en
A recap video of the 2025 event is available here: Cigna Healthcare HYROX Hong Kong Recap

Hashtag: #CignaHealthcare #HYROXHongKong #HYROX2026 #PreventiveHealth #ActiveLifestyle

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

About Cigna Healthcare Hong Kong

Cigna Healthcare is a health benefits provider that advocates for better health through every stage of life. We guide our customers through the health care system, empowering them with the information and insight they need to make the best choices for improving their health and vitality.

Founded in 1933, our Hong Kong business provides comprehensive health and wellness solutions to employers, employees and individual customers. Leveraging on our extensive global healthcare network, we offer global group medical benefits that provide comprehensive and tailored coverage for a wide range of organizations. For individual customers, we also offer a full suite of health insurance plans to cater for their diverse needs. For more details, please visit www.cigna.com.hk.

1...697698699...6,334Page 698 of 6,334