SINGAPORE, March 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Visa, a global leader in digital payments, is teaming up with two-time Grammy-winning artist, composer, and producer Laufey to delight fans and ardent travellers in Asia Pacific. The Icelandic-Chinese singer, who recently clinched Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album at the 68th Grammy Awards, will star in Visa’s upcoming “Be the Traveler You Want to Be” campaign that celebrates the magic of travel, especially among Gen Zs.

As part of the partnership, Visa will be the Official Payment Partner for Laufey: A Matter of Time Tour happening across Asia Pacific, starting 12 May in Hong Kong and finishing in Auckland on 12 August. Visa cardholders will enjoy exclusive early access to tickets for the tour through the Visa Presale on selected ticketing platforms, with Visa Infinite cardholders of participating Visa card issuers in selected markets enjoying earliest possible access (Refer to Appendix for all Visa Infinite and Visa Presale timings, platforms, and details).

In the coming months, Laufey will star in bespoke films on Visa’s brand channels that spotlight her love for travel through her favourite memories and places in Asia Pacific and around the world. Fans of Laufey – known as Lauvers – can also look forward to exclusive content with her on Visa’s official platforms.

Laufey said, “I’m thrilled to be teaming up with Visa for the A Matter of Time Tour, and to showcase the joy of travel across Asia. My songs come straight from my heart and reflect who I am, what I feel, and how I make music. I feel deeply connected to Asia, and this partnership brings me closer to a region that has given me so much and inspired me in so many ways. I can’t wait to be back with my fans across the continent.”

Danielle Jin, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, Asia Pacific at Visa said, “Laufey is a genuine one-of-a-kind artist who is reinventing jazz for a new generation of fans and music lovers around the world. Her determination to light her own path echoes Visa’s belief that success comes from the power of small steps – it is the daily dedication in chasing our passions that define success. Laufey’s unique brand of music is a cultural force, and Visa is putting fans at the heart of this by enabling seamless and secure payments on our network – allowing them to be the Lauver they want to be.”

Visa champions the moments that bring fans closer to the passions they love, from sports and music to fashion and entertainment. Guided by a fan-first approach to partnerships, Visa designs experiences that deepen connection and make participation seamless, secure and accessible for audiences around the world. Through high impact partnerships, Visa helps shape cultural moments while enabling effortless, cross-border commerce. Visa’s partnership with Laufey builds on Visa-supported musician residencies — an ongoing commitment to creating intimate, meaningful experiences that bring fans closer to the artists they love.

About Visa

Visa (NYSE: V) is a world leader in digital payments, facilitating transactions between consumers, merchants, financial institutions and government entities across more than 200 countries and territories. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, convenient, reliable and secure payments network, enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. We believe that economies that include everyone everywhere, uplift everyone everywhere and see access as foundational to the future of money movement. Learn more at Visa.com. 

APPENDIX

Details for Visa and Visa Infinite Presales for Laufey: A Matter of Time tour in Asia Pacific

Three New Equipment Introductions Highlight North American Market Focus

LAS VEGAS, March 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — From March 3–7, LGMG presented a comprehensive portfolio of mining machinery, aerial work platforms, and material handling equipment at CONEXPO-CON/AGG 2026 in Las Vegas, one of the world’s largest construction trade exhibitions. The lineup centered on equipment engineered specifically for North American performance standards, regulatory requirements, and operator preferences, combining global manufacturing capability with localized development expertise.

The exhibition brought together industry leadership and senior company executives, including AEM Executive General Manager Kaien Li, Lingong Group Chairman Wang Zhizhong, and LGMG President Simon Zhang, as well as customers and supplier partners.

At this year’s show, the company emphasized localized product development. Engineering refinement, application-driven design, and customer feedback have shaped a portfolio tailored to regional jobsite requirements and operating environments.

125ft telescopic boom lifts

The 125-foot telescopic boom lifts are engineered for large venues, airports, and industrial construction projects, combining dual heavy-load capacities with a 5° working angle and 45% gradeability. Designed for transport within a 40-foot container, the lifts incorporate load-sensing hydraulics, CAN-based control systems, and intelligent diagnostics that support precise control, improved energy efficiency, and simplified maintenance under demanding jobsite conditions.

H1256 Telehandlers

The H1256 telehandler is designed for material handling, roof installation, and infrastructure construction applications. Powered by a Cummins 90 kW engine and equipped with a fully electro-hydraulic proportional joystick and load-sensing system, it delivers stable performance and fuel-efficient operation. A spacious cab with integrated ROPS and HVAC enhances operator comfort, while a service-oriented component layout simplifies daily maintenance and supports uptime on high-utilization projects.

X7 series electric counterbalanced forklifts

The X7 series electric counterbalanced forklifts feature dual front-wheel drives, delivering 20% full-load gradeability and a top speed of 20 km/h. Additional features include wet brakes, an active safety control system, and a universal 80V battery platform compatible with both lead-acid and lithium-ion configurations. Low noise levels (≤68 dB) and an ergonomic operator layout enhance comfort in warehouse and industrial environments. The forklifts are CE certified and will be available beginning in March.

Together, the new models demonstrate LGMG’s application-focused engineering approach and localized development efforts. During the exhibition, company representatives met with customers, dealers, and strategic partners to discuss regional requirements and ongoing cooperation across key markets.

Founded in 2012, LGMG has expanded globally, achieving leading sales volumes in wide-body mining trucks and ranking among the top manufacturers worldwide in aerial work platforms. Its products are now sold in more than 100 countries and regions, supported by a growing global distribution and service network.

LGMG will continue investing in product development, building regional engineering capability, and expanding its global equipment portfolio. Through ongoing engineering development and adaptation to regional requirements, the company intends to support customer productivity and long-term growth in the construction equipment market.

For more information about LGMG’s solution in North America, please visit https://www.lgmg.com.cn/

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

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

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

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

About Sungrow

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Package highlights include:

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

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

Discover more at www.panpacific.com/beachroad

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

World Sleep Day 2026: Immersive Activations Across The Region

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

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

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

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

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

Sleep Rituals Inspired by Place

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

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

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

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

Leading the Future of Restorative Travel

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

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

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

About Westin® Hotels & Resorts

Westin Hotels & Resorts, hospitality’s global leader in wellness for more than a decade, empowers guests to transcend the rigors of travel while on the road through the brand’s pillars of well-being: Sleep Well, Eat Well, and Move Well. At more than 245 hotels and resorts in 45 countries and territories, guests can benefit from distinct wellness experiences including the brand’s iconic and award-winning Heavenly® Bed, signature WestinWORKOUT® offerings such as its 24/7 Fitness Studios, WestinWORKOUT Routes, and its versatile Gear Lending program, delicious and nutritious menu offerings on their Eat Well menu, and more. For more information, please visit www.westin.com and stay connected on X, Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook. Westin is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com. 

About Marriott Bonvoy®

Marriott Bonvoy, Marriott International’s portfolio of more than 30 hotel brands and 10,000 global destinations, offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable locations around the world. The award-winning travel program and marketplace gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, go here. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy on Facebook, X, Instagram, and TikTok.

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