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Canon Hong Kong Announces the Appointment of Mr Gary Lee as the New CEO


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 January 2025 – Canon Hongkong Company Limited (Canon Hong Kong) is pleased to announce today the appointment of Mr. Gary Lee as the company’s new CEO, with immediate effect.

Canon Hong Kong Announces the Appointment of Mr Gary Lee as the New CEO

With over three decades of experience in accounting and finance, Mr. Lee joined Canon Hong Kong in 1997 and has held several senior management positions across different business units and geographics, laying a solid foundation of leadership and expertise. In his new role, Mr. Lee will spearhead the company’s business operations in Hong Kong, Macau and the Greater Bay Area.

“Canon Hong Kong has a deep bonding with Hong Kong people for over 50 years. Leveraging the city’s unique geographical advantage as a gateway to Macau and the Greater Bay Area, we have achieved remarkable growth in both local and cross-border business with the immense support of our customers and business partners. I look forward to striving for new heights with the talented team. We will continue to drive digital transformation for our customers through innovative imaging technologies and intelligent business solutions. At the same time, we remain committed to our corporate philosophy of “Kyosei” to create greater value for the society and move towards a sustainable future with other stakeholders.” Mr. Lee shared.

Mr. Lee graduated from Hong Kong Baptist University in 1992 with a degree in Business Administration. His journey with Canon Hong Kong began in 1997 with initial focus on finance and accounting. In 2012, he earned an Executive MBA degree from The Chinese University of Hong Kong. Known for his forward-thinking approach, Mr. Lee has been a strong advocate for utilizing advanced technologies to enhance operational efficiency and accelerate digital transformation.

In 2011, Mr. Lee was promoted to Senior Director, overseeing Finance and Accounting, Information Technology, Supply Chain Management and Legal and Compliance across Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, the Philippines and Mongolia. From 2017 to 2024, Mr. Lee took up the role of Vice President and CFO of Canon India, where he managed key functions spanning from Finance, Legal, Corporate Communication, Government Relations to Central Procurement. With his tremendous insight and a wealth of global perspective, Mr. Lee will lead the company to propel and stay competitive in the rapidly evolving industry.
Hashtag: #CanonHongkong

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

About Canon Hongkong Company Limited

Canon Inc. (TSE:7751 / NYSE:CAJ) was founded in 1937 in Japan. Its predecessor, Precision Optical Instruments Laboratory, produced Japan’s first 35 mm focal-plane-shutter camera “Kwanon” in 1934. From there, Canon Inc. expanded into the photocopying and printing industries, launching Japan’s first plain-paper copier NP-1100 in 1970 and the world’s first inkjet printer BJ-80 in 1985. Through the years, Canon Inc. has acquired in-depth experience in digital imaging product manufacturing, research and development. Pioneering in innovative product development, Canon Inc. holds the most technology patents in the imaging industry. Canon Inc. also makes significant contributions to promote photography. Today, Canon Inc. has a strong global presence, representing one of the most important market players in the imaging, office and industrial product categories. As of 31 December 2023, Canon’s global revenue was US$29.44 billion.

In 1971, Canon Hongkong Co., Ltd. (Canon Hong Kong) was established as one of the first Canon offices in Asia. Canon Hong Kong is a Total Imaging Solution provider, providing professional pre-sales, marketing and after-sales services for all Canon products and solutions in Hong Kong and Macau. With the solely owned subsidiary Canon Business Solutions (Guangdong) Co., Ltd. established in 2018; the company continues to deliver intelligent total business solutions and professional services to Greater Bay Area. Canon Hong Kong adheres to Canon’s corporate philosophy of “Kyosei”, encouraging the company and staff to engage in social, charitable and environmental activities for the community. Implementing an internationally recognized management system, Canon Hong Kong has achieved ISO 9001, ISO 14001, ISO 45001 and ISO 27001 (Canon Digital Production Center) certifications.

For more information about Canon Hong Kong, please visit our website: .

Crystal Learning and Lingo School of Knowledge Unify Language Portfolio to Streamline Offerings and Enhance Student Experience


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 January 2025 – Crystal Learning Pte. Ltd. and Lingo School of Knowledge are pleased to announce the streamlining of their combined language offerings following their recent merger. This strategic decision will create a more focused and efficient portfolio, enabling regular class openings, greater operational synergy, and more opportunities for students to start their language learning journeys.

Under this new structure, each language will now be offered by a single school, allowing Crystal Learning and Lingo to achieve the critical mass necessary for frequent class start dates. This ensures greater flexibility and convenience for new students while maintaining small-group classes with a maximum of eight students—whether in-person at the Orchard centre, online, or in hybrid mode.

Key Changes to the Language Portfolio:

  1. Languages offered exclusively by Lingo School of Knowledge:
  • Vietnamese (previously under Vietnoi)
  • Indonesian (previously under IndoSlang)
  • Thai (previously under Sawadee)
  • Japanese (previously under Taiyo)
  • Malay (previously offered by both schools)
  • Languages offered exclusively by Crystal Learning’s specialist schools:
    • Korean: Hana Korean
    • Mandarin: Yi Mandarin
    • English: English Express

    Moving forward, students interested in Korean, Mandarin, or English will be referred to the respective specialist schools under the Crystal Learning umbrella.

    Commitment to Quality and Continuity

    The streamlining will not affect current teaching arrangements, and no changes will be made to the team of experienced teachers. Students will continue to enjoy personalized attention in small group settings, a hallmark of both Crystal Learning and Lingo.

    Alex Lim, Centre Director at Crystal Learning, shared, “By combining our strengths and focusing on a unified portfolio, we can offer students more frequent opportunities to start classes while maintaining our commitment to high-quality, small group teaching. Whether you’re learning Vietnamese, Mandarin, Korean or any of the other languages we teach, our goal is to make language learning more accessible and impactful.”

    With many aspiring learners making New Year’s resolutions to pick up a new language, this streamlined offering ensures a variety of languages are accessible, structured, and flexible to meet the needs of individuals and professionals alike.

    Hashtag: #CrystalLearning


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

    Crystal Learning Pte. Ltd.

    Crystal Learning Pte. Ltd. specializes in small group language lessons, offering practical and effective learning in Mandarin (Yi Mandarin), Korean (Hana Korean), and English (English Express). Their student-focused approach emphasizes practical application, helping learners achieve proficiency quickly and effectively.

    For more information, visit .

    Lingo School of Knowledge

    Lingo School of Knowledge is a leading language provider in Singapore, offering diverse courses ranging from Japanese, Thai, and Indonesian to Vietnamese and Malay. Known for its experienced native-speaking teachers and personalized small group lessons, Lingo serves both individuals and corporate clients with in-person, online, and hybrid options.

    For more information, visit .

    Kim Yew Integrated Celebrates 40 Years Of Excellence In Facilities Maintenance


    SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 January 2025 – Kim Yew Integrated, a leader in the facilities management industry, proudly celebrates its 40th anniversary in 2025, marking four decades of innovation, resilience, and commitment to excellence. Founded in 1985, the company has evolved from a traditional term contractor to an Integrated Facilities Management firm, redefining industry standards with data-driven solutions, technology integration, and sustainable practices.

    Patrick Tan, Managing Director of Kim Yew Integrated, who is part of the new management team that took over since 2021
    Patrick Tan, Managing Director of Kim Yew Integrated, who is part of the new management team that took over since 2021

    ACHIEVEMENTS THAT DEFINE EXCELLENCE

    Over the past 40 years, Kim Yew Integrated’s journey has been defined by groundbreaking achievements and a steadfast commitment to exceeding client expectations. Notable milestones include:

    • Certified Facilities Management Company (Gold Plus): Achieving this prestigious SIFMA certification highlights the company’s excellence in delivering high-quality facilities management services.
    • Sustainable Net Zero Organization (Gold Plus): Recognised for its leadership in sustainability, Kim Yew Integrated has set benchmarks in implementing environmentally friendly practices.
    • SIFMA Smart Technology Winner (2021, 2022, 2023): Acknowledged three years in a row for its innovative use of smart technologies in facilities management.
    • Sustainability (Small Enterprise) Merit (2023): Honoured for its outstanding contributions to sustainability within the small enterprise category.
    • Outstanding FM Service Provider (Open) Merit (2022, 2023): Recognised for its exceptional service delivery and client satisfaction.
    • World Workplace Asia-Pacific Sustainability Merit (2024): Celebrated for its dedication to advancing sustainability in the facilities management industry across the Asia-Pacific region.
    • FM01 – M1 Certification: Kim Yew Integrated is the highest-certified local firm to meet this stringent standard, solidifying its position as a trusted partner for large-scale facilities management projects.
    • Pioneering Transformation: Transitioning from traditional term contracting to a holistic IFM approach, the company now leverages cutting-edge technology, data analytics, and innovative solutions to deliver unparalleled service quality.

    ADAPTING TO EMERGING EXPECTATIONS

    Since 2021, under the new shareholders, directors, and management team, Kim Yew Integrated has more than doubled its business, demonstrating its strategic vision and commitment to excellence in the post-COVID market. This growth reflects the company’s ability to adapt to market demands while maintaining its core values of quality and reliability.

    The facilities management landscape has undergone significant changes over the past decade, driven by digital transformation, sustainability goals, and rising client expectations. Kim Yew Integrated has embraced these challenges, emerging as a forward-thinking partner for businesses seeking efficient and sustainable facilities solutions. Through initiatives like green procurement, carbon tracking, and e-waste recycling, the company has embedded environmental stewardship at the core of its operations.

    “Celebrating 40 years is not just about looking back at what we’ve accomplished but also about looking ahead to the future,” said Patrick Tan, Managing Director of Kim Yew Integrated. “Our journey reflects our ability to adapt, innovate, and lead in a dynamic industry. We remain committed to providing sustainable and efficient solutions that meet the evolving needs of our clients.”

    A LEGACY OF COLLABORATION AND INNOVATION

    Kim Yew Integrated has built lasting partnerships with government bodies, educational institutions, and leading corporations, providing customised facilities solutions that address complex challenges. These relationships reflect the company’s unwavering commitment to delivering tailored solutions with a focus on excellence and reliability.

    Looking to the future, Kim Yew Integrated plans to further its investments in innovation, particularly in areas such as robotics for cleaning and pest control, advanced data analytics, and expanded energy efficiency solutions. Collaborations with technology partners will continue to enhance its ability to deliver integrated, cutting-edge services.

    COMMITMENT TO EXCELLENCE AND ACCOUNTABILITY

    As a trusted leader in facilities management, Kim Yew Integrated upholds the highest standards of service quality, innovation, and ethical business practices. This commitment is the foundation of its long-standing relationships and reflects its dedication to meeting and exceeding stakeholder expectations. This milestone underscores the dedication of Kim Yew Integrated’s team and the trust placed in the company by its clients and partners. As it celebrates 40 years of success, the company reaffirms its mission to set new benchmarks in the facilities management industry, shaping a sustainable and innovative future.

    Patrick Tan, Managing Director of Kim Yew Integrated commented:

    “Since November 2021, Kim Yew Integrated has achieved remarkable growth and reached key milestones. This progress would not have been possible without the unwavering trust, support, and collaboration of our clients, people, and partners. As we celebrate our 40th Anniversary, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has been part of our journey and success. Together, we aspire to continue growing and creating positive impact for many years to come.”

    Hashtag: #KimYewIntegrated

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

    Sirius Mathematics Celebrates Grand Opening in Tampines


    SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 January 2025 – Sirius Mathematics, the maths specialist tuition centre for primary and secondary students, is excited to announce its grand opening in the vibrant Tampines area.

    Mdm Chang Chiou Yen teaching a math class at Sirius Mathematics.
    Mdm Chang Chiou Yen teaching a math class at Sirius Mathematics.

    Supporting Student Success with Innovative Teaching

    Sirius Mathematics was founded out of a passion for teaching and a commitment to helping students develop their mathematical thinking and problem-solving skills. Led by the former Mathematics Head of Department at Raffles Institution, Ms. Chang Chiou Yen, the centre aims to support students through innovative teaching methods, tailored materials, and personalised support.

    “We are thrilled to celebrate the grand opening of Sirius Mathematics in Tampines. This marks the beginning of a new chapter where we can make a significant impact on our students’ academic journeys,” said Ms. Chang, Head of Mathematics.

    Expert-Led Education by Ms. Chang Chiou Yen

    As the former Mathematics Head of Department at Raffles Institution, one of Singapore’s premier secondary schools, Ms. Chang brings over 20 years of teaching experience in MOE schools, including Raffles Institution and Raffles Girls’ School.

    Ms. Chang holds a Bachelor of Science from NUS, a Master of Education from NTU, and a Postgraduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) from NIE. Her credentials and hands-on experience have shaped her deep understanding of the MOE Mathematics syllabus. Known for her ability to demystify complex concepts, Ms. Chang makes Mathematics accessible and engaging for students of all levels.

    “I’ve always been passionate about helping students truly understand mathematical concepts. I believe building a strong foundation can foster both academic excellence and confidence. My goal is to create a supportive and engaging learning environment where every student can thrive and succeed,” said Ms. Chang, Head of Mathematics at Sirius Mathematics.

    In addition, the other teachers at Sirius Mathematics are all local graduates from NUS and NTU. They possess years of experience teaching Mathematics to both primary and secondary students.

    Future Growth and Student Intake

    As Sirius Mathematics looks to grow, the centre is specifically targeting an intake of Secondary 4 students this year. Besides, the tuition centre is expanding to include Primary 5 and Primary 6 students, preparing them for PSLE and further strengthening its commitment to academic excellence across all grade levels. With plans to expand its reach, the centre is positioning itself as a leader in math tuition for students of all levels.

    Hashtag: #SiriusMathematics #grandopening


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

    About Sirius Mathematics

    Sirius Mathematics is the preferred choice for . Its curriculum aligns with the Ministry of Education’s (MOE) Assessment Objectives, helping students to develop a solid foundation for academic success.

    To support new students, Sirius Mathematics is offering a free trial session to experience the centre’s teaching methods firsthand.

    For more information, please visit .

    Yuewen Music Festival Lights Up Singapore Sky with Drone and Firework Spectacle in 2025 Countdown


    SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 January 2025 – The inaugural Yuewen Music Festival illuminated the sky over Singapore with a magnificent display of over a thousand drones and dazzling fireworks, both inspired by popular Yuewen Intellectual Properties (IPs). This innovative fusion of music and IP has captivated audiences from around the world.

    The festival's grand finale on December 31st
    The festival’s grand finale on December 31st

    As the clock’s hands steadily approached the midnight hour, a remarkable spectacle unfolded. More than a thousand drones soared into the air, choreographing a symphony of lights and patterns across Singapore’s night sky.

    Simultaneously, the renowned DJ WUKONG, celebrated for his unique blend of eastern and electronic music, took center stage to debut a meticulously crafted remix of the iconic The King’s Avatar theme song. This electrifying performance served as the crowning jewel of the evening, setting the tone for the highly anticipated countdown to 2025.

    The three-day event has proven to be a vibrant melting pot of extraordinary talent, spotlighting renowned artists from all corners of Asia and beyond. On its inaugural day, PP Krit spellbound his vast legion of fans through a succession of highly engaging performances. He was then followed by Billkin, who, with his ability to connect with the audience, closed the evening with a performance that was nothing short of captivating. As the event progressed, on December 29, the second day of this remarkable affair, TAEYANG & DAESUNG, the former luminaries of the iconic K-pop group BIGBANG, swept the audience off their feet with their chart-toppers and an electrically charged stage presence that etched an indelible impression.

    In addition to the music festival, Yuewen has been actively engaged in various initiatives to promote its IPs in Singapore. Earlier in 2024, the “Yuewen Global IP Awards” was held in Singapore, hosting over 600 celebrities, writers, and global entertainment executives.
    Hashtag: #Yuewen

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

    About Yuewen

    Yuewen (HKEX: 0772, formerly China Literature Limited) is a culture and entertainment group that was founded in March 2015. It focuses on creating and developing intellectual property (IP) derived from online literature.

    Yuewen has a diverse portfolio of well-known brands, such as QQ Reading, Qidian, New Classics Media, and Tencent Animation & Comics. It serves as a platform for tens of millions of creators and a rich reserve of literary works across 200 genres, catering to hundreds of millions of users. Yuewen is renowned for its celebrated IP portfolio, which includes popular titles like Joy of Life featuring Zhang Ruoyun, Guardians of the Dafeng featuring Dylan Wang, My Heroic Husband, Candle in the Tomb, The King’s Avatar featuring Yang Yang, Soul Land, and Nirvana in Fire. It has successfully expanded its reach across various media formats, including audiobooks, animation, comics, films, drama series, games, and offline merchandise.

    For more information, please visit .

    AlphaX DEX Supports USDT Trading of Memecoins on Solana, Ethereum, and Base


    SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 January 2025 – With the rapid development of the Web3 ecosystem, 2024 undoubtedly marks a pivotal moment in the blockchain industry. This year, Memecoins have transformed from speculative assets into a mainstream cultural phenomenon, becoming a key driver of widespread consensus and wealth transfer. As new issuance models and evolving asset types continue to emerge, the substantial investment opportunities they present have drawn an increasing number of users into the market.

    In this trend, Memecoins on the Solana blockchain have demonstrated strong growth potential within the “Memes Supercycle,” while Ethereum-based Memecoins continue to experience explosive growth. Furthermore, Base, an emerging public chain, has seen rapid success in the Memecoin space, quickly surpassing many traditional blockchain platforms to become a hotbed for investors. In 2024, classic Memecoins like Doge, Pepe, and SHIB have posted average gains of over five times, while MooDeng and PNUT have seen returns exceeding 100 times. Now, the AI segment is gearing up, with coins such as $ai16z, $Luna, $GOAT, $virtual, and $AIXBT gaining traction. These impressive results highlight that the earlier one enters the Memecoin markets on these chains.

    However, despite the immense potential of the Memecoin market, the complexities and barriers of on-chain trading have deterred many new users from participating. From wallet setup and private key management to gas fees, token conversions, and the overwhelming number of trading pairs, these challenges have kept many investors on the sidelines.

    To address this, AlphaX.com launched its Memeshot project in early December 2024, aimed at simplifying the Memecoin trading process and lowering the barriers for all users to enter the on-chain crypto market. As a decentralized exchange, AlphaX not only offers a smooth user experience comparable to traditional centralized exchanges, but also becomes the first decentralized exchange to support USDT-based purchases of on-chain Memecoins. This innovative approach makes Memecoin trading more intuitive and convenient, allowing more new users to easily get started.

    Notably, AlphaX has demonstrated impressive speed in updates and iterations. In less than a month, AlphaX has already enabled trading Memecoins across three major blockchains: Solana, Ethereum, and Base. This means that users holding USDT or USDC can now directly search for and trade their desired Memecoins on AlphaX, completing transactions quickly without waiting for centralized exchange listing processes. For long-term Memecoin investors, AlphaX undoubtedly provides a more efficient and user-friendly trading platform.

    With AlphaX, you can easily seize investment opportunities in these popular Memecoins while enjoying the autonomy, security, and flexibility offered by a decentralized platform. Join AlphaX now, explore your Memecoin trading journey, and position yourself for the next wave of market growth.

    Hashtag: #alphax





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

    AlphaX

    is a cutting-edge decentralized exchange for perps with up to 125x leverage and will support meme spots in December.

    With a strong foundation built by industry veterans and a commitment to user security and satisfaction, AlphaX is your gateway to the future of investment. AlphaX provides 100% on-chain trading with decentralized security, self-custody wallet integration, and a permanent NO-KYC policy, ensuring complete privacy. With ultra-fast transaction speeds and access to high-potential assets, AlphaX is a versatile platform for traders looking for flexibility and reliability in their trading journey.

    Gorilla Technology Closes 2024 on a High and Enters 2025 with a Bang


    London, United Kingdom – Newsfile Corp. – December 31, 2024 – Gorilla Technology Group Inc. (NASDAQ: GRRR) (“Gorilla” or the “Company”) is closing the year on a high note, securing two more contracts in Taiwan that pave the way for even greater success in 2025.

    The first is a pivotal project is with the law enforcement sector, centred on deploying Gorilla’s AI-powered lawful interception and criminal investigation platform. This groundbreaking project demonstrates Gorilla’s ability to harness artificial intelligence to empower agencies with intelligent, data-driven tools that enhance public safety and streamline operational efficiency.

    The second contract involves a strategic collaboration with a leading telecom provider to enable their AI-enhanced Cloud IMS network service to meet lawful interception (LI) certification requirements. This initiative underscores Gorilla’s pivotal role in deploying advanced AI-driven solutions to ensure compliance and security, empowering the telecom provider to launch their innovative service seamlessly while meeting critical regulatory standards.

    Jay Chandan, Chairman and CEO of Gorilla Technology, commented: “As we turn the corner into 2025, Gorilla is not merely carrying momentum – we are building a transformative future. These two landmark agreements highlight our ability to deliver strategic solutions in highly specialised industries. I could not be prouder of what we have accomplished this year and the foundation we have laid for what is to come. Gorilla enters 2025 with not just a solid backlog but with eyes firmly on 2026.”

    Looking ahead, Gorilla remains committed to driving innovation, enabling smarter and more secure cities, and delivering outstanding value to its stakeholders. With a growing global presence, a robust product portfolio and an unparalleled focus on execution, Gorilla is well-positioned to dominate the market in 2025 and beyond.

    About Gorilla Technology Group Inc.

    Headquartered in London U.K., Gorilla is a global solution provider in Security Intelligence, Network Intelligence, Business Intelligence and IoT technology. We provide a wide range of solutions, including, Smart City, Network, Video, Security Convergence and IoT, across select verticals of Government & Public Services, Manufacturing, Telecom, Retail, Transportation & Logistics, Healthcare and Education, by using AI and Deep Learning Technologies.

    Our expertise lies in revolutionizing urban operations, bolstering security and enhancing resilience. We deliver pioneering products that harness the power of AI in intelligent video surveillance, facial recognition, license plate recognition, edge computing, post-event analytics and advanced cybersecurity technologies. By integrating these AI-driven technologies, we empower Smart Cities to enhance efficiency, safety and cybersecurity measures, ultimately improving the quality of life for residents.

    For more information, please visit our website: Gorilla-Technology.com.

    Forward-Looking Statements

    This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of the “safe harbor” provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Gorilla’s actual results may differ from its expectations, estimates and projections and consequently, you should not rely on these forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Words such as “expect,” “estimate,” “project,” “budget,” “forecast,” “anticipate,” “intend,” “plan,” “may,” “will,” “could,” “should,” “believes,” “predicts,” “potential,” “might” and “continues,” and similar expressions are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, without limitation, statements regarding our beliefs about our ability to deliver products at competitive prices, our ability to service our customers, the growth of the Smart City market, the capabilities of our third party vendors, our ability to attract the attention of customers and win additional projects, along with those other risks described under the heading “Risk Factors” in the Form 20-F Gorilla filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on May 15, 2024 and those that are included in any of Gorilla’s future filings with the SEC. These forward-looking statements involve significant risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from expected results. Most of these factors are outside of the control of Gorilla and are difficult to predict. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those indicated or anticipated by such forward-looking statements. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance upon any forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. Gorilla undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date they were made except as required by law or applicable regulation.

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Dave Gentry
    RedChip Companies, Inc.
    1-407-644-4256
    GRRR@redchip.com

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

    About Gorilla Technology Group Inc.

    Nam Ngum 1 Reservoir Reopens with Green Initiatives

    Nam Ngum 1 Reservoir Reopens with Green Initiatives
    The Nam Ngum 1 Reservoir Landscape

    Additional reporting by Souliyasone Ngotsyoudom


    Vientiane Province is once again in the spotlight with a fresh tourism draw—the newly upgraded Nam Ngum 1 Reservoir Recreation Area, also known as “Nam Ngum 1 Reservoir” or “Thalay Lao,” meaning the Lao Sea.

    Located in Keooudom District, the reservoir officially reopened on 3 December after a three-year closure for extensive redevelopment.

    “We are expecting at least 1-2 million visitors to visit this place in 2025,” said Sisavath Sengphachan, Vientiane Province’s Head of Information, Culture, and Tourism, who oversees the facility. “We have it all here—nature, food, interesting historical background, and, of course, it’s all environmentally friendly.”

    The reservoir’s main area, the marina, now boasts 36 boats connected to on-site restaurants.

    Visitors are greeted by an entry gate, parking facilities, and a circular viewing pavilion. For those seeking scenic views, the site offers three viewing points, a stepped viewing platform, and walkways leading to boat restaurants.

    Redevelopment, Compensation, and Green Efforts

    This redevelopment not only enhances the tourism appeal of Vientiane Province but also brings upgrades to surrounding infrastructure. The 6.3-kilometer access road to the site has been transformed into a concrete pathway, linking the reservoir to Highway No.10. Internal roads and side streets within the port area have also been refurbished, making it easier for visitors to navigate the site.

    The walkway at the site where shops are located.

    However, the redevelopment process was not without its challenges. To facilitate the project, the government relocated residents who had once lived in the area. The head of Vientiane’s tourism department explained that the Nam Ngum 1 Reservoir site was originally a village inhabited by fishing enthusiasts.

    Despite the relocation, Sisavath assured that the affected residents were compensated. Nineteen families considered to have “special needs” were selected for full relocation support. “We granted them land about 3 kilometers from here and provided the necessary funds for their move,” he said.

    One of the shopkeepers, who was part of the 19 families originally residing at the site, shared her experience of being relocated during the construction period.

    “They provided us with money to build a house to stay in for three years during the redevelopment,” said the woman, who had lived in the area for 30 years and now operates a snack shop at the site. She noted that project officials regularly checked how the compensation funds were being used.

    “They paid us compensation every six months from the start of construction until it was completed,” she added.

    In addition to the financial support, the woman mentioned that the government occasionally treated them to meals as part of their compensation efforts.

    After the redevelopment was completed, she said that they were allowed to return to the newly developed site.

    “To compensate for the relocation, they let us stay here rent-free for one year,” she said, adding that she would start paying land fees beginning 3 December, 2025.

    Sisavath then highlighted the environmentally-friendly initiatives at the Nam Ngum 1 Reservoir, emphasizing efforts to enhance the area’s greenery.

    He also noted that the construction team made a conscious effort to preserve the existing vegetation during the development process.

    “I know the trees and plants here don’t look very appealing right now,” Sisavath admitted. “But we’re going to plant even more moving forward. I’m confident this place will feel much more natural by next year.”

    Challenges, Measures for Sustainability, Waste Management

    Maintaining cleanliness is another priority at the facility.

    “We have three types of bins,” Sisavath said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining an environmentally friendly space.

    “Yellow bins are for recyclable trash, red bins are for hazardous waste, and green bins are for garbage that can be turned into fertilizer.”

    Despite these measures, proper waste disposal remains a challenge, according to him.

    “Many people do not have it in them to properly dispose of their waste,” he said.

    To address this, the Lao government has been conducting training sessions for entrepreneurs and tour guides, who play a crucial role in educating both locals and visitors.

    “Many tourists have different backgrounds, which is why we need to ensure guides understand how serious we are about keeping the environment clean so they can pass this information to tourists,” Sisavath emphasized.

    However, challenges extend beyond waste management. The marina’s fleet is not fully ready, with only 20 out of 36 boats currently operational, and just five meeting the required standards.

    Deputy Head of Information, Culture, and Tourism, Khammy Phoutthavong, outlined plans to address this issue, stating that by 2025, they aim to have at least 25 to 30 boats meet the required standards.

    Boats at the Nam Ngum 1 Resevoir’s Marina

    Each boat is required to have a waste tank to manage sewage, but Khammy explained that some boats not meeting these standards are still allowed to operate.

    “Why do we let the other boats [that don’t meet the standard] operate? It’s because it’s a tradition to allow them, even if they don’t meet the new standards.”

    He added that these boats were already in operation before the redevelopment of Nam Ngum 1 Reservoir and before the current standards were introduced.

    This leniency, he said, also helps compensate for the long hiatus the boats faced during the facility’s redevelopment into the Nam Ngum 1 Reservoir.

    Although the boats are ready to operate, Khammy noted that they currently cannot take visitors to the surrounding islands, as those are still under development. He expects island visits to begin by mid-2025.

    Positive Reactions from Locals and Tourists

    Despite the lengthy redevelopment, the project has garnered positive feedback from both locals and tourists.

    “Since the reopening of the site, I’ve had a lot of tourists hiring me to drive them to the reservoir,” said a local driver.

    Another resident, Khamvaen, who runs a traditional handicraft souvenir shop at the site, also expressed her happiness with the redevelopment.

    “We’ve seen a lot of tourists coming to see us, especially in my shop,” said Khamvaen, who just opened her store after the redevelopment.

    Her shop offers a variety of handicrafts, including traditional snacks, scarves, sticky rice baskets, and traditional medicine. “More tourists means more profit for us,” she added. “Every handicraft in my shop is handmade, deliberately crafted by a talented local team, which adds value to them.”

    Khamvaen mentioned that most tourists who have visited so far are Chinese, rather than Westerners. However, while the influx of tourists is beneficial, she highlighted a significant challenge: the language barrier.

    “I have to use sign language to communicate with the Chinese tourists most of the time,” she said, adding that it would be helpful if the Lao government could offer a basic Chinese language course to assist shopkeepers.

    Another resident, Xayadeth, the new owner of the Daolormduean boat restaurant at the site, who took over from the previous owner, also shared his excitement.

    “Coming here has been a blessing,” said Xayadeth. “My restaurant is usually packed with visitors in the afternoon and reaches its peak during the weekend when the site sees a large influx of tourists.”

    The Nam Ngum Reservoir project was supported by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), with a total investment of USD 5.33 million. Spearheaded by the Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism, construction began on 1 July, 2021, and reached completion on 30 October this year. Khamfong Group Sole Co., Ltd., served as the primary construction contractor.

    With its focus on sustainability, accessibility, and cultural preservation, the Nam Ngum Reservoir Recreation Area marks a new chapter for Vientiane Province’s tourism sector.

    This story was supported by Internews’ Earth Journalism Network