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French Fireworks Designer Wins Gold Award at China International Fireworks Culture Festival of Wanzai


YICHUN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 31 December 2024 – On the evening of December 21, a fireworks display themed “Fireworks of Love” lit up the sky above the ancient city of Wanzai in Jiangxi Province, China. The show, designed by French fireworks artist Sophie, won the Gold Award at the 5th China International Fireworks and Culture Festival of Wanzai.

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The year of 2024 marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of China-France diplomatic relations. Sophie blended French romanticism with traditional Chinese culture and stories, using colors such as blue and red to create a romantic atmosphere in celebration of the milestone.

Sophie has had a deep interest in Chinese culture since childhood. During the 2008 Beijing Olympics, she contributed to the creative planning of the opening ceremony. Deeply impressed by the grandeur of the fireworks displays, she has named herself 苏绮(Su Qi), which means to be as beautiful and brilliant as fireworks.

Driven by her love for China, Sophie has settled in Wanzai. Now she works for a local large-scale fireworks company and oversees fireworks performances in the ancient city.

Located in northwest Jiangxi, Wanzai has a history spanning over 1,400 years in fireworks production and is one of China’s four major fireworks manufacturing areas. Its fireworks have illuminated the skies at major events, including the Beijing Olympics, the Shanghai World Expo, and National Day celebrations in Beijing.

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

APRIL Group Wins 2024 Upakarti Award for Empowering Local SMEs

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 31 December 2024 – APRIL Group recently won the 2024 Upakarti Award through its operating arm Riau Andalan Pulp and Paper (RAPP). The award recognises the company’s contribution to empowering local small and medium enterprises (SMEs) around its operations in Pangkalan Kerinci, Riau.

The award was handed to RAPP’s President Director Sihol Aritonang by Industry Minister Agus Gumiwang in Jakarta. “We’d like to extend our biggest appreciation to the companies that had won the 2024 Upakarti award. This award, which is the highest accolade from the Industry Ministry, reflects their success in motivating and empowering local SMEs,” said Agus.

One of the programmes that contributed to RAPP securing the award is the Batik Andalan initiative. Established in 2015, Batik Andalan empowers local stay-at-home mothers living near the company’s operations in Riau. Over the years, it has grown into a thriving small-to-medium-scale industry in the region. Its signature product, Batik Bono, has become a sought-after souvenir from Pelalawan and has earned Indonesian National Standard (SNI) certification. The brand currently boasts five copyrighted motifs and showcased its designs alongside leading national modest fashion labels at the 2023 Jakarta Muslim Fashion Week.

The development of local business partners to supply workers for RAPP’s nurseries and factories exemplifies the company’s commitment to community empowerment.

Another notable initiative is the Rumah Madu Andalan programme launched in 2018. Its flagship product, Madu Foresbi forest honey, is both halal-certified and approved by Indonesia’s National Food and Drug Agency (BPOM). The honey is already available in eight souvenir shops across Pekanbaru.

Through its Community Development programme, RAPP provides support such as business permit assistance, access to capital and promotional facilities, fostering a sustainable business ecosystem within its operational areas.

RAPP’s President Director, Sihol Aritonang, emphasised that these initiatives align with the company’s APRIL2030 sustainability blueprint. This ambitious plan outlines RAPP’s long-term sustainability goals, aiming for inclusive progress and the eradication of extreme poverty within a 50-kilometer radius of its operations. The blueprint focuses on fostering entrepreneurial spirit and empowering local communities to achieve sustainable growth.

“This Upakarti Award motivates us to continue to empower the community, especially around the operational area, and to strive to develop sustainable and responsible businesses,” said Sihol.

To-date, APRIL, a member of the RGE group of companies, has empowered more than 100 offline partners spread across 49 villages around the company’s operational areas, as well as 243 inline partners engaged in various business sectors, such as transportation, labour, and material providers to support the company’s operational activities.
Hashtag: #RGE #APRIL

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

About APRIL

APRIL Group is a leading producer of fibre, pulp and paper with plantations and manufacturing operations in Riau Province, Indonesia. We are committed to sustainability in our business and in the broader landscapes where we operate. Under our production-protection model, we adopted a unique 1-for-1 goal where we aim to conserve one hectare of forest for every hectare of plantation, and currently conserve and restore about 360,000 hectares of forests, including the largest peatland restoration project in Indonesia. For more information, visit www.aprilasia.com and follow Twitter @aprilpulp.

CGTN: People’s well-being matters most: How Chinese modernization delivers people better life


BEIJING, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 31 December 2024 – CGTN publishes an article on a special interactive page named “Chinese Modernization, People’s Well-being Matters Most,” which details China’s modernization drive and high-quality development in various areas in 2024 through visual effects and in-depth stories. The article summarized Chinese President Xi Jinping’s domestic tour in 2024, and highlighted his care for improving people’s well-being in various areas and promoting high-quality development, stressing that “the people’s well-being matters the most in Chinese modernization.”

People's well-being matters most- How Chinese modernization delivers people better life

As 2025 draws near, China’s consumption has shown signs of revitalization as various regions and departments have enhanced the supply in the country’s consumption market.

Official data showed that the country’s popularity index for offline consumption increased by five percent year on year, and the popularity index of services showed a year-on-year jump of 10.6 percent.

The boom in consumption highlights the improvement of people’s livelihoods. “As far as Chinese modernization is concerned, the people’s well-being matters the most,” Chinese President Xi Jinping said while inspecting Chongqing Municipality in April.

During Xi’s domestic tours in 2024, “people” was one of the most frequently mentioned keywords, according to an analysis by CGTN, joined in the top 10 by others such as “development,” “modernization,” “economy,” and “ecology,” underscoring the direction and key elements of China’s path to modernization.

“Chinese Modernization, People’s Well-being Matters Most,” a special interactive page launched by CGTN, details China’s modernization drive and high-quality development in various areas in 2024 through visual effects and in-depth stories.

People’s well-being matters most

Xi has often stressed that every issue that affects the people, big or small, deserves the utmost care and attention.

During his inspection tours around China this year, he visited ordinary people to learn about their lives, from their incomes and housing to healthcare, education, and elderly care services.

“The Communist Party of China (CPC) is dedicated to serving the people, and the well-being of the people of all ethnic groups and every household is my concern,” Xi said while visiting a multi-ethnic residential community in Yinchuan, northwest China’s Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region in June.

According to China’s Ministry of Finance, 70 percent of the government’s expenditure in 2024 has gone toward ensuring the people’s well-being.

The country has raised its expenditure in the national general public budget to about 28.55 trillion yuan ($3.91 trillion) this year, up 4 percent from the previous year, with projected budgets for education, social insurance and employment each surpassing 4 trillion yuan in 2024.

A bumper harvest

Grain security and rural revitalization have also been high on Xi’s agenda in 2024.

He has frequently visited the countryside during his inspection tours, engaging with workers in fields, greenhouses and orchards and asking in-depth questions about various aspects of rural and agricultural life, from crop production to incomes.

When visiting a village in Hunan Province in March, Xi inspected preparations for spring farming. He emphasized that, with a population exceeding 1.4 billion, China must secure its own grain supply.

The latest National Bureau of Statistics of China data showed that in 2024 the country’s total grain output exceeded 706 million tonnes, an increase of 1.6 percent over the previous year, hitting a new record high.

This year’s bumper harvest was accompanied by a rise in grain planting areas in the country, which stood at over 119 million hectares, up 0.3 percent year on year. Additionally, grain output per unit area increased by 1.3 percent, the data showed.

In another positive development, China’s food security law, aimed at ensuring the supply of grain and related products, took effect in June.

Accelerating rural revitalization

Since China’s elimination of absolute poverty in 2021, the country’s focus on rural work has shifted to rural revitalization. Xi has stressed that to advance Chinese modernization, efforts must be made to accelerate rural revitalization.

China has identified 160 major counties for national rural revitalization assistance and allocated over 177 billion yuan in subsidies to support their development in 2024.

In the first three quarters of this year, the per capita disposable income of rural residents reached 16,740 yuan, a real-term annual increase of 6.3 percent.

Meanwhile, the central government allocated development funds of 7.4 billion yuan to improve production and living conditions in ethnic minority dominant villages and to protect and develop such villages.

The country has also launched monitoring and support mechanisms to prevent once-poor populations from falling back into poverty.

Work-relief programs to boost employment were also implemented this year. As of the end of October, the total scale of employment for poverty-stricken people in China had reached 33.079 million, exceeding the annual target by 2.888 million, providing strong support for consolidating and building on the achievements of poverty alleviation.

For more information, please click:

https://news.cgtn.com/event/2024/China2024/index.html

Hashtag: #CGTN

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

TVBS Christmas Eve special unites audiences with message of peace


TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 December 2024 – TVBS aired its much-anticipated Christmas Eve Special Program in December, the sole festive broadcast of its kind in the Chinese-speaking world. This significant event was the pinnacle of the TVBS Infinite Love Series, captivating tens of thousands and doubling online engagement compared to the previous year. The program’s theme of “peace” transitioned from global reflections to national contributions and, finally, to personal connections.

TVBS's Christmas Eve Special, the only festive broadcast of its kind in the Chinese-speaking world, united over 50 artists in a heartfelt performance.
TVBS’s Christmas Eve Special, the only festive broadcast of its kind in the Chinese-speaking world, united over 50 artists in a heartfelt performance.

A Heartfelt Celebration of Peace and Unity

The broadcast began with the Christmas truce of World War I, symbolizing global peace, followed by the stories of Dr. James L. Maxwell, who brought healthcare and faith to Taiwan 160 years ago, and Dr. Doris Brougham, whose work in English education transformed the nation. A comedic segment, “Christmas Harmony Room”, featured political figures humorously discussing paths to unity in Taiwan. These narratives conveyed a profound message of peace, resonating with audiences and inspiring hope throughout the Christmas season.

Community Events and Cultural Celebrations

Leading up to this Christmas highlight, TVBS organized impactful events strengthening community bonds. Seven Christmas Charity Banquets in Taipei, New Taipei, Taoyuan, Taichung, Tainan, Kaohsiung, and Hualien united over 2,000 participants, including underprivileged families. In Taoyuan, Mayor Chang San-Cheng praised the initiative: “The energy of Infinite Love grows stronger each year, helping more families in need.” Meanwhile, the International Christmas Cultural Carnival transformed Taipei’s Daan Forest Park into a festive hub, drawing over 10,000 attendees and celebrating community unity.

A Vision of Love and Connection for the Future

Through the Infinite Love Christmas series, TVBS redefines the media’s role in fostering community, culture, and compassion. Over six years, this initiative has evolved into a nationwide movement, demonstrating the infinite possibilities of love. As TVBS builds on this legacy, it remains committed to expanding its circle of care and love, spreading the message of peace and hope further each year to ensure the warmth of Christmas reaches every corner of Taiwan and beyond. Aligned with its mission of “Bonding the World, Empowering Taiwan,” TVBS aspires to solidify its position as the paramount media outlet in the Chinese-speaking world, amplifying the spirit of connection and compassion.
Hashtag: #TVBS

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

Atlas Lithium Accelerates Production Readiness with Key Executive Appointments


Boca Raton, Florida – Newsfile Corp. – December 30, 2024 – Atlas Lithium Corporation (NASDAQ: ATLX) (“Atlas Lithium” or “Company”), a leading lithium pre-production company, is pleased to announce two pivotal additions to its leadership team, marking a significant step forward in the Company’s journey to becoming a leading lithium producer at its Neves Project in Brazil’s thriving Lithium Valley.

Strengthening Project Implementation Expertise with Eduardo Queiroz

Eduardo Queiroz joins Atlas Lithium as Project Management Officer (PMO) and Vice President of Engineering, bringing over 20 years of hands-on experience managing complex, large-scale mining projects, and making him the perfect addition to drive the Company’s Neves Project to revenue generation. Mr. Queiroz has more than two decades of expertise in managing large-scale and complex mining projects, most recently as General Manager of Planning and Management at Bamin, a unit of Eurasian Resources Group, where he successfully led the strategic planning of several projects over US$3 billion, including an integrated iron ore mining project encompassing mining operations, processing plant, railway, and ocean port facilities. His comprehensive experience includes engineering oversight, environmental compliance, risk management, and the implementation of cost-efficient operational strategies. He holds an MBA in Project Management from Fundação Getúlio Vargas and a degree in Civil Engineering from the Universidade Federal de Ouro Preto.

“Eduardo’s arrival could not come at a better time,” said Marc Fogassa, CEO and Chairman of Atlas Lithium. “As we prepare to transition into production, his proven track record in the implementation of Brazilian mining projects will be instrumental in our success. We are honored and thrilled to have him on our team.”

Expanding Asian Market Presence with Lili Wu

In addition to strengthening our technical capabilities, Atlas Lithium is expanding its global footprint with the appointment of Lili Wu as Head of Business Development for Asia. Based in Beijing, Ms. Wu brings a wealth of knowledge and an extensive network in the lithium and battery materials industries. Her prior roles at InsightWoo and IHS Markit (now part of S&P Global) demonstrate her ability to drive results in international markets. From negotiating long-term procurement agreements to advising top financial institutions on lithium investments, she has a proven ability to add value in the ever-evolving lithium supply chain. Ms. Wu holds a Master’s degree in Accounting from the University of New South Wales and a Bachelor’s degree in International Trade from Beijing International Studies University.

The appointment of Ms. Wu comes at a strategic time as Atlas Lithium continues to strengthen its market presence in regions experiencing robust electric vehicle growth. Recent market data shows China’s electric vehicle (EV) sales jumped 51% year-over-year as of November 2024, underlining the region’s vital role in the global energy transition. With established offtake agreements with major partners like Mitsui & Co. in Japan and leading lithium chemical producers Chengxin and Yahua in China, Atlas Lithium has commercial relationships in key growth markets. This global approach positions the Company to capitalize on worldwide opportunities in the lithium supply chain while reducing dependence on any single regional market.

“I have had the privilege of working with Lili and her contributions have already been invaluable to Atlas Lithium,” said Fogassa. “Her unparalleled work ethic and deep understanding of the Asian lithium market make her the perfect ambassador for this high EV growth region.”

Positioned for Global Success

These strategic hires reflect the Company’s unwavering commitment to excellence as it advances toward production. Eduardo Queiroz and Lili Wu represent the next generation of leadership at Atlas Lithium, bringing the vision, expertise, and energy we need to achieve our ambitious goals.

“At Atlas Lithium, our mission is not just to mine lithium but to power the world’s transition to sustainable energy,” said Fogassa. “With Eduardo’s operational expertise and Lili’s unmatched ability to navigate the dynamic Asian markets, we are well-positioned for growth. With a world-class team and a clear vision, Atlas Lithium is ready to deliver value to our shareholders, partners, and the global energy ecosystem.”

About Atlas Lithium Corporation

Atlas Lithium Corporation (NASDAQ: ATLX) is advancing to production its wholly owned hard-rock lithium Neves Project located in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. The Neves Project has received operational permitting from Minas Gerais in October 2024. Additionally, with 539 square kilometers of lithium mineral rights, Atlas Lithium owns the largest lithium exploration footprint in Brazil of any publicly listed company. The company also holds a 32.7% ownership stake in Atlas Critical Minerals Corporation (formerly Jupiter Gold Corporation), a diversified mining company with significant mineral rights in rare earths, copper, graphite, nickel, iron ore, gold, and quartzite.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. Forward looking statements are based upon the current plans, estimates and projections of Atlas Lithium and its subsidiaries and are subject to inherent risks and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ from the forward-looking statements. Such statements include, among others, those concerning market and industry segment growth and demand and acceptance of new and existing products; any projections of production, reserves, sales, earnings, revenue, margins or other financial items; any statements of the plans, strategies and objectives of management for future operations; any statements regarding future economic conditions or performance; uncertainties related to conducting business in Brazil, as well as all assumptions, expectations, predictions, intentions or beliefs about future events. Therefore, you should not place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The following factors, among others, could cause actual results to differ from those set forth in the forward-looking statements: results from ongoing geotechnical analysis of projects; business conditions in Brazil; general economic conditions, geopolitical events, and regulatory changes; availability of capital; Atlas Lithium’s ability to maintain its competitive position; manipulative attempts by short sellers to drive down our stock price; and dependence on key management.

Additional risks related to the Company and its subsidiaries are more fully discussed in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in the Company’s Form 10-K/A filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on November 9, 2024. Please also refer to the Company’s other filings with the SEC, all of which are available at www.sec.gov. In addition, any forward-looking statements represent the Company’s views only as of today and should not be relied upon as representing its views as of any subsequent date. The Company explicitly disclaims any obligation to update any forward-looking statements.

Investor Relations
Gary Guyton
Vice President, Investor Relations
+1 (833) 661-7900
gary.guyton@atlas-lithium.com
https://www.atlas-lithium.com/
@Atlas_Lithium

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

ChildFund Bids Farewell to Laos After 14 Years

ChildFund Bids Farewell to Laos After 14 Years
ChildFund Bids Farewell to Laos After 14 Years

After 14 years of development work in Laos, ChildFund in Laos held its close-out ceremony today in Vientiane. The event recognised the organisation’s dedication and the contributions it made to local communities. Key stakeholders, including government representatives, ChildFund Australia board members, partners, donors, staff, and representatives of the projects’ participants, came together to celebrate the progress of positive changes that have improved the lives of thousands of children, youth, and families.

Since its establishment in Nonghet District, Xiengkhouang Province, in 2010, ChildFund in Laos has been committed to sustainable development, focusing on improving education, health and nutrition, child rights and governance, youth empowerment, and disaster resilience. By working closely with communities, ChildFund has helped children access quality education, supported families to have knowledge and tools to improve nutrition, empowered youth to voice their opinions and take on leadership roles, and strengthened community resilience to natural disasters. These efforts have brought meaningful change, helping communities become more self-sufficient and creating opportunities for a better future.

ChildFund Bids Farewell to Laos After 14 Years
ChildFund Bids Farewell to Laos After 14 Years

“Today is a celebration of the resilience, partnerships, and positive change achieved over the past 14 years. Our collective efforts have made a lasting difference, and while this chapter closes, the values of empowerment, collaboration, support, and shared growth will continue to inspire and guide the communities we’ve worked with,” said Vilasai Thammavong, ChildFund in Laos Country Director.

Some of the highlights of positive impacts include reaching approximately 205,391 people through five health and nutrition projects, 14 education projects, and nine child rights and governance projects. 

Through targeted initiatives, significant changes have been achieved across communities. Efforts to enhance education have included building and renovating schools, equipping teachers, and providing learning materials to ensure children, especially in remote areas, access quality education. Health and nutrition programs have focused on maternal and child well-being, emphasizing the critical first 1,000 days for long-term health. 

Advocacy for child rights has raised community awareness and strengthened protections, while youth empowerment programs have fostered leadership and self-development. Additionally, disaster risk management workshops have prepared vulnerable communities to mitigate risks and build resilience against natural disasters, creating a safer and more secure future.

The ceremony featured testimonials from children, youth volunteers, teachers, parents, and government partners, who shared how ChildFund’s programs have positively impacted their lives and people in communities, with their experiences highlighted during the panel discussion. With projects focused on both immediate relief efforts and long-term development, the positive changes initiated by ChildFund in Laos will continue to benefit future generations.

ChildFund expresses its deepest gratitude to donors, whose support has been invaluable in making these achievements possible: the Australian NGO Cooperation Program (ANCP), ChildFund Korea (CFK), The European Union in Laos (EU), Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA), Prudence Foundation, UNICEF, and The British Embassy in Laos.

 

Malaysia Global Business Forum to Kickstart 2025 with Roundtable on Corporate Community Involvement in Sports


KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 December 2024 – The Malaysia Global Business Forum (MGBF) is set to host its first roundtable of 2025, focusing on the dynamic theme of ‘Corporate Community Involvement in Sports‘. The event will take place on 20 February in Kuala Lumpur, bringing together a diverse range of stakeholders to explore how corporate engagement in sports can deliver significant value for communities and businesses alike.

The roundtable aims to address gaps in the corporate-community ecosystem while showcasing how partnerships, sponsorships, athlete endorsements, donations, and internal company sports programmes can be leveraged to enhance community engagement, communications, stakeholder management, and corporate social responsibility (CSR) objectives.

“The corporate sector has a critical role to play in the future of a country’s sporting success. Every corporate leader should have a positive experience with sports from childhood; that should be the starting point. Then we need to design an experience with the community and the corporations that fulfil their broader objectives. Sport is part of your ESG equation,” said Nordin Abdullah, Founding Chairman of the Malaysia Global Business Forum.

“Corporations have a unique opportunity for to strengthen their reputation and contribute to society by embracing sports as part of their 2025 community and communication strategies. Whether it is through boosting national pride at the next SEA Games or positioning organisations as caring and collaborative entities, this roundtable is an essential platform for meaningful discussions and action,” he added.

The event will feature three engaging panel sessions:

  • Panel 1: ‘Communicating Corporate Community Involvement: Partnership, Sponsorship, or Donation?’
  • Panel 2: ‘Longtail Benefits of Supporting Young Athletes’
  • Panel 3: ‘Designing Medal Counts – The Role of the Corporate Sector in 2, 4 and 8-Year Sports Cycles’

The roundtable will convene prominent voices, including sports organisations, policymakers, former Olympic athletes, community sports non-profits, sports business professionals, and corporate leaders, to foster collaborative solutions and shared visions.

The MGBF will announce the panel speakers on 6 January, followed by the keynote speaker announcement on 13 January. Limited opportunities remain for sponsors and supporters to participate as panellists. Interested parties are encouraged to contact admin@malaysiaglobalbusinessforum.com for further details.

Event Details:
Date: 20 February 2025
Time: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Venue: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Fees: RM88 (Members), RM138 (Non-Members)
Registration: MGBF LinkedIn

This roundtable is a must-attend event for organisations seeking to align their CSR goals with impactful community initiatives through the medium of sports.

MGBF was established to empower stakeholders at the intersection of international and Malaysian business. Through government relations, business intelligence, advocacy, media engagement, market research, networking, advisory and business matching, MGBF will continue to explore threats and opportunities with industry leaders and policy makers to ensure that Malaysia becomes a leader in the context of Asia.

For more information, visit www.MalaysiaGlobalBusinessForum.com.
Hashtag: #MalaysiaGlobalBusinessForum

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

“Ice City” welcomes influx of foreign


HARBIN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 December 2024 – Braving the biting cold, tourists are flocking to the snow-covered St. Sophia Cathedral, a century-old Byzantine building in Harbin, capital of northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, with many stopping to pose for photos.

An aerial drone photo shows a view of the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China's Heilongjiang Province, Dec. 21, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei)
An aerial drone photo shows a view of the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin, northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, Dec. 21, 2024. (Xinhua/Xie Jianfei)

Harbin, often called the “Ice City,” has become one of China’s most popular winter travel destinations, drawing visitors worldwide. This year, it has seen a new wave of international tourists, with travelers eager to experience the city’s historical and winter wonders.

For Nadia Jovita Injilia Riso, a tourist from Indonesia, visiting the St. Sophia Cathedral was like a long-cherished dream coming true. It was amazing to see such a beautiful Western-style building in China, with people dressed as princes and princesses, which felt like traveling through a time tunnel, she said.

Strolling along Central Street, Harbin’s landmark pedestrian area, Riso enjoyed the melodies of a harpist playing from a balcony. She also took the opportunity to savor the local ice cream.

“Harbin is famous for its winter tourism and ice sports, but my trip here has been full of unexpected surprises. The melodies, the food and the welcoming locals have left an unforgettable impression,” she said.

Riso noted that she has already visited the indoor ice-and-snow facility of the Harbin Ice-Snow World, one of China’s most iconic winter attractions, and would like to try the outdoor Super Ice Slide. “This is a very interesting place because you can make big ice sculptures into very interesting things.”

Last winter, the Harbin Ice-Snow World skyrocketed in popularity on Chinese social media, capturing the country’s growing passion for winter sports and tourism.

It has once again gained massive attraction this winter. This year’s edition of the Harbin Ice-Snow World, the world’s largest ice-and-snow theme park, received 62,000 visitors on the first day of opening .

“Everything is a great experience because Indonesia is a tropical country and we don’t have snow,” Riso said, adding that the Harbin Ice-Snow World is on a friend’s wish list, and she will recommend it to her, as well as other friends.

For Moo Swee Ming, a member of a 16-person tour group from Malaysia, the ice and snow attractions are a must-see.

“For first-time visitors here, it’s a must to experience the icy world of snow and ice. It’s a rare opportunity,” said Moo, adding that what the ice and snow tourism of Heilongjiang attracts them most are the “Snow Town” in the city of Mudanjiang and the ice sculptures on Central Street and in the Harbin Ice-Snow World in Harbin.

With its unique charm, Harbin has already seen growing popularity among “China Travel” goers.

According to the Harbin immigration inspection station, as of Dec. 19, Harbin Taiping International Airport had handled 136,000 inbound and outbound foreign tourists this year, marking an increase of 181 percent year on year.

Foreign tourists purchasing candied hawthorn on a stick.(Xinhua)
Foreign tourists purchasing candied hawthorn on a stick.(Xinhua)

With the implementation of China’s 240-hour visa-free transit policy and the upcoming 2025 Harbin Asian Winter Games, the city is poised to attract even more international tourists this winter.

Wang Hongxin, director of Harbin’s culture, radio, television and tourism department, said the city is working to enhance the overall tourist experience by improving dining, accommodation, transportation, shopping and entertainment through the latest technologies.

Harbin is creating a series of new attractions and landmarks, offering global tourists a feast of ice-and-snow tourism, Wang added.

Hashtag: #TheDepartmentofCultureandTourismofHeilongjiangProvince

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