28 C
Vientiane
Tuesday, November 4, 2025
spot_img
Home Blog Page 899

Primary school children’s art reveals real-world impact of learning English, new study

A new study from Cambridge shows the diverse motivations young people have for learning English, brought to life through a series of drawings by primary school children from around the world. From chatting to friends and family, landing a great job or even travelling the world, the artwork illustrates the real-world impact of learning English.

SINGAPORE, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A series of 85 drawings by a group of 6–11-year-olds from schools across Italy, Türkiye and Vietnam has helped inform a new impact evaluation study on learning English in primary settings from Cambridge University Press & Assessment. The drawings offer a unique insight into how young people perceive the impact and opportunities of learning English.

Dr Brigita Séguis, Head of Impact Evaluation at Cambridge University Press & Assessment, said the artwork helped to bring out the voices of young learners, which can sometimes be overlooked.

“It was fascinating to see students illustrating themselves using English outside the classroom in familiar situations,” commented Dr Séguis. She continued: They drew social situations such as traveling abroad and interacting with hotel receptionists, chatting to friends and family, and even predicting their future job prospects. We also saw young children drawing animals talking to each other in English which demonstrated how they are beginning to construct their linguistic identity. These drawings are fantastic because they reveal how learners internalise the value of English and their evolving understanding of English as a tool for real-world communication.”

The study also incorporated traditional data collection methods such as teacher questionnaires, focus groups, interviews, and classroom observations. It helped inform a wider impact study which showed the positive impact of teaching and learning English using Kid’s Box New Generation—a widely recognised course for young English learners. One of the key findings from the study was that 81% of teachers thought Kids Box New Generation helped them create a positive and effective learning environment in the classroom. 

Dr Aynur Karakoç, Senior Impact Evaluator, added she was surprised to see future career opportunities already firmly on the minds of young learners. 

“It was also lovely to hear that children were already thinking about how English will help them get jobs in the future. We saw lots of examples of students motivated by career prospects which was surprising considering their age, but very encouraging to hear.”

Find out more about the study and what teachers think about the Kids Box course.

Chatting in English and hanging out in Paris is what this young student from Vietnam drew.
Chatting in English and hanging out in Paris is what this young student from Vietnam drew.

‘I love London’ on the bus in this lovely drawing from a Turkish student.
‘I love London’ on the bus in this lovely drawing from a Turkish student.

Interesting, funny and cool is how one Italian student described their English class
Interesting, funny and cool is how one Italian student described their English class

Cambridge University Press & Assessment is part of the University of Cambridge. Our English team produces the world’s leading range of learning resources and assessments for learners and teachers of English.

Everything we do is based on research and we are dedicated to helping people learn English and prove their skills to the world. Cambridge is where your world grows.

Gaga Macau Re-defines Café Culture with Art and Wellness at Galaxy Macau’s Newest Lifestyle Dining Outpost

With its signature ‘All-Day Chill’ the gaga café phenomenon comes to Galaxy Macau, marking outlet number 99 for the Shenzhen-born brand that’s quietly redefining contemporary café culture


MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 August 2025 – Galaxy Macau™ Integrated Resort (“Galaxy Macau”) today officially opened gaga, the Shenzhen-born dining group’s 99th outlet and first-ever non-mainland location, in Macau. In a natural evolution for China’s most design-conscious dining collective, gaga’s new outpost on Galaxy Promenade is the latest addition to the luxury resort’s compelling array of global dining attractions.

Galaxy Macau today officially opened gaga. (From left) The ceremony was officiated by Mr. Theo Tang, Senior Branding Marketing Director of gaga; Mr. Jason Nandwani, Assistant Senior Vice President of Food and Beverage, Galaxy Entertainment Group; Ms. Nancy Yin, co-partner of gaga; Ms. Camellia Feng, Chief Executive Officer of gaga; Mr. Kevin Kelley, Chief Operating Officer — Macau of Galaxy Entertainment Group; Mr. Steven Tan, Senior Vice President of Food and Beverage, Galaxy Entertainment Group; Mr. Andy Zhou, Vice President of Front of House Operations of gaga; Mr. Kim Leung, Assistant Vice President of Food and Beverage, Galaxy Entertainment Group.
Galaxy Macau today officially opened gaga. (From left) The ceremony was officiated by Mr. Theo Tang, Senior Branding Marketing Director of gaga; Mr. Jason Nandwani, Assistant Senior Vice President of Food and Beverage, Galaxy Entertainment Group; Ms. Nancy Yin, co-partner of gaga; Ms. Camellia Feng, Chief Executive Officer of gaga; Mr. Kevin Kelley, Chief Operating Officer — Macau of Galaxy Entertainment Group; Mr. Steven Tan, Senior Vice President of Food and Beverage, Galaxy Entertainment Group; Mr. Andy Zhou, Vice President of Front of House Operations of gaga; Mr. Kim Leung, Assistant Vice President of Food and Beverage, Galaxy Entertainment Group.

True to form, gaga enlisted emerging Mainland artists to create site-specific works for the Macau branch that blur the boundaries between gallery and gastropub – in a signature move for gaga, which treats its locations as a hub for artistic expression.

“We’re not just serving food, we’re curating moments,” says Mr. Kevin Kelley, Chief Operating Officer, Macau at Galaxy Entertainment Group. “Amid our constellation of 120 culinary destinations at Galaxy Macau, gaga arrives as something altogether unique and considered. This is restorative dining. Curated cuisine. A space where Art, Nature, and Wellness converge on your plate with the elegance of a brushstroke. In a world that moves at breakneck speed, we offer our valued guests the radical act of slowing down, savoring, and reconnecting with what truly sustains us.”

Mr. Kevin Kelley, Chief Operating Officer — Macau of Galaxy Entertainment Group delivered a heartfelt welcome speech at the ceremony.
Mr. Kevin Kelley, Chief Operating Officer — Macau of Galaxy Entertainment Group delivered a heartfelt welcome speech at the ceremony.

Since opening in 2010, gaga has become the go-to for the brand’s dedicated devotees: gaga “lifestylers”. At Galaxy, the space embodies what gaga calls its “Macau vacation” philosophy – a wellness-forward ethos that nourishes mindful respites from urban velocity. The Macau iteration also promises the ‘all-day chill’ experience that has made the brand indispensable to urbanites seeking what gaga founder, Ms. Camellia Feng, calls “beautiful pauses”.

Set within breezy alfresco surrounds, the newly opened gaga café at Galaxy Macau is enhanced by the brand’s laidback blend of art, nature, and wellness. The opening ceremony took inspiration from this concept, inviting up-and-coming artists from the Chinese Mainland to a signature ‘gaga Table’ for sharing sessions and to introduce their artworks – as displayed at gaga Macau, while tapping into gaga’s ‘art-meets-lifestyle’ café culture.

Floral artist Ceng Xi delivered an introduction to the concept behind the table-top floral sets.
Floral artist Ceng Xi delivered an introduction to the concept behind the table-top floral sets.

The ceremony was officiated by Mr. Kevin Kelley, Chief Operating Officer — Macau of Galaxy Entertainment Group; Mr. Steven Tan, Senior Vice President of Food and Beverage, Galaxy Entertainment Group; Mr. Jason Nandwani, Assistant Senior Vice President of Food and Beverage, Galaxy Entertainment Group; Mr. Kim Leung, Assistant Vice President of Food and Beverage, Galaxy Entertainment Group; and Ms. Camellia Feng, Chief Executive Officer of gaga; Ms. Nancy Yin, co-partner of gaga; Mr. Andy Zhou, Vice President of Front of House Operations of gaga; Mr. Andy Zhu, Vice President of Kitchen Operations of gaga, and Mr. Theo Tang, Senior Branding Marketing Director of gaga.

Founded in Shenzhen in 2010, gaga has become a much-loved sanctuary for soulful diners, curious connoisseurs, and urbanites seeking a pause from the bustle of city life. Celebrating food as a medium for connection, relaxation, and joy, gaga is also known for embracing the beauty of nature by crafting distinctive spaces that blur the lines between the urban landscape and the outdoors.

At gaga at Galaxy Macau, diners can look forward to Macau-exclusive specials and collectible merchandise.
At gaga at Galaxy Macau, diners can look forward to Macau-exclusive specials and collectible merchandise.

The brand’s founding ethos of “All-Day Chill” is reflected in its menu, which pays tribute to life’s simple pleasures and the notion of enriching lives through food, social bonding, and mindful living. gaga’s signature dishes embody its spirit, alongside exclusive dishes and specially designed merchandise – available only in Macau. The menu at gaga also features food and drinks that combine tradition with innovation, such as the Tea Sangria, a refreshing blend of tea and fresh fruit that offers a novel perspective on a timeless beverage. At gaga at Galaxy Macau, diners can also look forward to enjoying ‘Macau-exclusive’ specials such as Shrimp Paste Seafood Pasta, and Serradura Cake. while highlights include The Full Gaga Brunch, Half Lobster Benedict, Gaga Fruit Tea, Charred 250 Days Grain Fed Black Angus Ribeye, Wagyu Beef Sliders and the Gaga Super Salad.

Following Gaga at Galaxy Macau’s grand opening, Galaxy Promenade will unveil a series of spectacular shopping privileges and social media-worthy activities this August — featuring beauty & wellness experience and an exciting fitness pop-up. Guests can also enjoy exclusive privileges at designated athleisure brands and restaurants including gaga, indulging in a one-stop wellness lifestyle experience.

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

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

ABOUT GALAXY MACAU INTEGRATED RESORT

Galaxy Macau™, The World-class Luxury Integrated Resort delivers the “Most Spectacular Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World”. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Eight award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel™, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott Hotel Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Broadway Hotel, Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Andaz Macau. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575-meters, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-meters high and 150-meters pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz- Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate.

As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies; Galaxy Promenade is the hottest shopping destination featuring the latest in fashion and curated experiences in Macau. Spanning over 100,000-square-meter, luxury flagship stores, lifestyle boutiques and our selection of labels are among the more than 200 world-renowned brands for a world-class shopping journey; Galaxy Cinemas, immersive thrills and luxurious comfort go hand in hand at Galaxy Cinemas. All 10 theaters are equipped with the latest audio-visual technology; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind deluxe lounge that evokes the glitz and glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with entertainment in luxury and style; and Foot Hub presents the traditional art of reflexology to make you feel more relaxed and revitalized. For Authentic Macau Flavours & Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at its Broadway Food Street. The 2,500-seat Broadway Theatre plays host to world-class entertainers and a diverse array of cultural events. Meeting, incentive and banquet groups are also well looked after with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and a professional service staff.

Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) is the latest addition to the Group’s ever-expanding integrated resort precinct and will usher in a new era for the MICE industry in Macau. GICC is a world- class event venue featuring 40,000-square-meter of total flexible MICE, and a 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.

For more details, please visit and

WuXi XDC Achieves GMP Release of Newly Launched DP3 Facility at Wuxi Site, Scaling Further Drug Product Manufacturing Capacity

WUXI, China, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — WuXi XDC Cayman Inc. (“WuXi XDC”, stock code: 2268.HK), a leading global Contract Research, Development and Manufacturing Organization (CRDMO) focused on the bioconjugate industry, announced that the Drug Product 3 (“DP3”) facility at the Wuxi site has completed GMP release at the end of July, signifying the company’s relentless pursuit of excellence in capacity expansion and business growth.

In just 18 months, WuXi XDC has rapidly completed the advanced design, construction, equipment qualification, media fill and GMP release of the DP3 facility with high efficiency and quality. The DP3 facility is expected to have an annual capacity of 7 million vials. Upon the DP3 operational, the current total capacity of the existing three bioconjugate DP facilities (DP1, DP2 & DP3) reaches approximately 15 million vials per year at the Wuxi site.

Dr. Jimmy Li, CEO of WuXi XDC, stated, “The successful GMP release of DP3 facility marks not only another milestone for WuXi XDC, but also a new beginning towards pursuing higher goals. As a key part of our global capacity expansion, we are adding one state-of-the-art DP facility every year, systematically scaling our bioconjugate drug product network. Going forward, WuXi XDC will maintain deep insights into industry needs, providing global customers with high-quality integrated CRDMO services. Our mission remains unwavering: to accelerate and transform the discovery, development and manufacturing of bioconjugates through a comprehensive open-access platform, enabling our global healthcare partners and benefiting patients worldwide.”

DP3 facility is constructed in accordance with the highest international standards, use of best equipment and incorporates industry-leading technologies. It features a distinctive facility design, rigorous risk classification management, advanced high-potency and sterile equipment, innovative single-use technology, and a comprehensive environmental monitoring system. DP3 facility provides manufacturing service for liquid and lyophilized sterile products, offering customers one-stop solutions from clinical to commercial manufacturing.

DP3 facility meets the highest international quality standards and fully complies with GMP regulations from the FDA, EMA, and NMPA, ensuring process compliance and product quality. DP3 facility integrates material disinfection, cleaning and sterilization, formulation, filling, lyophilization, capping, external washing, visual inspection and packaging. The Filling process features automatic emptying DS from bag, 100% online weight check, non-vacuum stoppering and high-speed filling up to 300 vials per minute. A dual-camera system detects the stopper height and rejects products with missing or high stopper products online. The robotic tray packaging and automated packaging line provides labeling, carton packaging, end of line packaging, and traceability, enabling efficient and precise manufacturing.

About WuXi XDC
WuXi XDC Cayman Inc. (stock code: 2268.HK) is a globally recognized contract research, development, and manufacturing organization (CRDMO) specializing in bioconjugates. The company offers a wide range of innovative conjugation and payload-linker technologies to facilitate the development of next-generation antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). Focused on early-stage research and development of ADCs and other bioconjugates, WuXi XDC offers comprehensive one-stop services from clinical to commercial manufacturing. Its services cover antibody intermediates and other biologics intermediates, chemical payloads and linkers, as well as bioconjugate drug substances and drug products. For more information about WuXi XDC, please visit: www.wuxixdc.com

WuXi XDC Contacts
Investor: wuxixdc.ir@wuxibiologics.com
Media: wuxixdc_pr@wuxibiologics.com
BD: wuxixdc_info@wuxibiologics.com 

 

Velox Clearing LLC Appoints Christopher Joseph Cook as CEO to Lead Strategic Reset

MIAMI, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Velox Clearing, LLC (“Velox”), a technology-forward clearing firm, has announced the appointment of brokerage industry veteran Christopher Joseph Cook as its Chief Executive Officer.

In his new role, Mr. Cook will leverage his broad expertise in US regulatory compliance to strengthen the firm’s compliance posture in brokerage operations, product development, sales, and risk management, while driving strategic direction during Velox’s next phase of growth.

“As I take on the CEO role, I see a pivotal opportunity to strengthen the firm’s foundations—enhancing our regulatory posture, reinforcing operational discipline, and scaling with intention,” said Cook. “I’m honored to lead Velox at this defining moment. We are focused on sustainable growth built on a foundation of strong compliance, operational excellence, and long-term client trust. My focus will be on embedding strong governance and risk controls across all areas of the business—from brokerage operations to product strategy—as we position Velox for its next chapter.”

Mr. Cook brings two decades of financial services experience to Velox, most recently serving as CCO for ICE Securities Execution and Clearing where he oversaw all areas of the firm’s compliance with US Securities Regulation by mitigating risk, increasing efficiency, and continuously improving processes. At Folio Investments, Inc., he was CCO and responsible for Regulatory Risk Management, developing and implementing a compliance and risk management framework. His career also encompasses senior-level positions at Evercore Partners and Macquarie Structured Finance.

Mr. Cook earned his Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Finance from Rutgers University and attended the Wharton School for Business and Executive Education.

Headquartered in Miami, Florida, Velox is a technology-forward correspondent clearing firm which publicly launched operations in 2019 providing securities clearing, settlement, custody, margin lending, stock loan, and prime brokerage solutions to broker-dealers, RIAs, hedge funds, and automated traders. The firm offers superior efficiency and speed, supporting its customers’ business operations by combining modern, responsive, and proprietary technology with high-touch service, competitive pricing, and rigorous risk management controls. Velox empowers its clients to focus on controlling costs, acquiring new business, and leveraging their market presence.

Velox is registered with the SEC, is a member of FINRA and the NYSE, and is a member of DTCC/NSCC and SIPC. For more information, visit http://www.velox-global.com.

Metropolitan Electricity Authority Recognized at the Prestigious Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards (AREA) 2025 for ESG Excellence


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 August 2025 – The Metropolitan Electricity Authority (MEA), a leading electricity distributor across Bangkok, Nonthaburi, and Samut Prakan, is proud to announce its recent accolades at the Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards (AREA) 2025, an award ceremony organized by leading NGO Enterprise Asia to celebrate ESG-conscious corporations. MEA’s unwavering commitment to sustainable community development and robust ESG initiatives has earned it prestigious awards in both the Social Empowerment and Corporate Sustainability Reporting categories.

MEA’s success is largely attributed to its flagship “Enhancing Safety and Support for Sustainable Community” program. This comprehensive initiative, driven by core ESG principles, is designed to create lasting positive impacts for communities. A prime example is the Pattana Bon Kai Community, where MEA has significantly enhanced electrical safety through crucial upgrades and targeted training sessions. The program innovatively integrates renewable energy, particularly in smart farming operations managed by local seniors, thereby boosting local economies through support for community enterprises.

Operating under a strategic “3S” approach—Safety, Supportive Community Enterprise, and Sustainable Community—the program fosters dynamic partnerships with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, private companies, educational institutions, and the community itself. These collaborations are pivotal in problem-solving and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the initiatives. The tangible achievements of this program align directly with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), demonstrating measurable impacts such as a significant reduction in water waste, the provision of continuous clean energy, substantial income generation for community enterprises exceeding USD 13,000, improved community safety, and robust collaborative frameworks.

Looking ahead to 2027, the program plans for continued expansion of smart farming, enhancement of a key learning center for sustainable practices, ongoing electrical system upgrades, and sustained support for local businesses to drive inclusive development and environmental stewardship.

Beyond specific projects, MEA’s overarching commitment to ESG principles is evident in its meticulously prepared annual Sustainability Report, which adheres to GRI Standards and is fully aligned with the UN SDGs. The company’s “Triple Go for Goal” strategy—Go Smart, Go Digital, and Go Green—underpins its dedication to efficiency, technological advancement, and environmental innovation. This holistic approach has demonstrably benefited over 1,500 households, showcasing remarkable impacts such as significant CO₂ reduction, a record of zero data breaches, and substantial income generation. MEA’s systematic engagement with its eight key stakeholder groups and its transparent reporting across Planet, People, and Prosperity further underscore its leadership in corporate responsibility.

The recognition at AREA 2025 serves as a powerful testament to MEA’s steadfast dedication to integrating its core electricity distribution services with comprehensive ESG principles. By actively fostering safer, greener, and more prosperous communities, MEA continues to set a benchmark for sustainable urban development and community well-being, driving progress towards global sustainability goals.

Hashtag: #AREA

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

About Enterprise Asia

Enterprise Asia is a non-governmental organization in pursuit of creating an Asia that is rich in entrepreneurship as an engine toward sustainable and progressive economic and social development within a world of economic equality. Its two pillars of existence are investment in people and responsible entrepreneurship. Enterprise Asia works with governments, NGOs, and other organizations to promote competitiveness and entrepreneurial development, uplifting the economic status of people across Asia and ensuring a legacy of hope, innovation, and courage for future generations. Please visit https://www.enterpriseasia.org/ for more information.

About Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards (AREA)

The Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards program recognizes and honors Asian businesses for championing sustainable and responsible entrepreneurship in the categories of Green Leadership, Investment in People, Health Promotion, Social Empowerment, Corporate Governance, Circular Economy Leadership, Corporate Sustainability Reporting, and Responsible Business Leadership. For more information, visit .

ChainUp’s “The ATH Night”: Singapore’s Must-Attend Pre-TOKEN2049 Networking for Digital Asset Leaders

SINGAPORE, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Global digital asset technology solutions provider ChainUp today announced its flagship event, “The ATH Night: Unlocking Infinite B2B Digital Assets Growth” on 30 September 2025, at Lantern Singapore. This exclusive networking gathering is set to be Singapore’s most impactful pre-TOKEN2049 event, designed to foster high-value B2B connections among the industry’s key stakeholders.

Building on the proven success of last year’s event, which attracted over 2,000 registrations with 80% comprising senior executives, “The ATH Night” returns to provide a focused platform for C-suite professionals, founders, investors, and innovators to engage and collaborate ahead of the highly anticipated TOKEN2049 conference.

“As we celebrate our 8th anniversary, this year’s ‘The ATH Night’ stands as a direct reflection of our commitment to building a thriving digital asset ecosystem”, said Sailor Zhong, Founder & CEO of ChainUp, “We’ve designed this event to be the go-to platform for B2B leaders to truly connect, spark vital ideas, and together, drive our industry forward.”

Event Details:

  • Event Name: The ATH Night – Unlocking Infinite B2B Digital Assets Growth
  • Date:30 September 2025, Tuesday
  • Time:8:00 PM – 11:00 PM SGT
  • Venue: Lantern Singapore (@The Fullerton Bay Hotel)
  • Register here: https://lu.ma/ytn136vf

Attendees of “The ATH Night” can expect:

  • Exclusive access: Connect directly with top-tier decision-makers and influential thought leaders across the Web3, digital asset, and blockchain sectors.
  • Iconic atmosphere: Experience an evening of curated networking set against the backdrop of the Marina Bay waterfront.
  • Celebratory giveaways: In celebration of ChainUp’s 8th anniversary, attendees will have a special opportunity to win a selection of highly sought-after tech gadgets and other prizes.

Attendance is curated to ensure a high-quality networking experience, and space is limited. For companies interested to elevate your brand’s visibility and align with this premier event, reach out to marketing@chainup.com for sponsorship opportunities.

For registration and further information, please visit: https://lu.ma/ytn136vf.

About ChainUp

ChainUp, a leading global provider of digital asset solutions, empowers businesses to navigate the complexities of this evolving ecosystem. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Singapore, ChainUp serves a diverse clientele, from Web3 companies to established financial institutions.

ChainUp’s comprehensive suite of solutions includes crypto exchange solutions, liquidity as-a-service, custody services, MPC wallet-as-a-service, KYT crypto tracing analytics tool, asset tokenization, crypto asset management, and Web3 infrastructure such as mining, staking, and blockchain APIs. For more information, visit: https://www.chainup.com/.

Smart Jelly for Smart Aging: Chula’s High-Protein Pudding Takes Global Stage

BANGKOK, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Chulalongkorn University‘s “High-Protein Jelly Pudding with Modified Texture for the Elderly with Swallowing Difficulties,” developed by Asst. Prof. Dr. Varanya Techasukthavorn and a team from the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, won a bronze medal in Geneva, along with a special award from Malaysia. Striking with banana and strawberry flavors, the jelly pudding is easy to consume and provides a high protein content of 7-8 grams per cup to strengthen muscles. It’s suitable for the elderly, patients, and those who need additional protein. The team is preparing to scale up to commercial production soon.

Smart Jelly for Smart Aging Chula’s High-Protein Pudding Takes Global Stage
Smart Jelly for Smart Aging Chula’s High-Protein Pudding Takes Global Stage

The “High Protein Jelly Pudding with Modified Texture for the Elderly with Swallowing Difficulties” by Asst. Prof. Dr. Varanya Techasukthavorn, Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, Chulalongkorn University, and her team won the Bronze Medal at “The 50th International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva,” held on April 9-13, 2025, in Geneva, Switzerland, and the Prize of Malaysia delegation from Malaysia Delegation from Malaysia. This marks another remarkable innovation that addresses the needs of an aging society and the elderly people who often face problems with reduced food consumption and difficulty chewing and swallowing.

Elderly-Friendly Protein Snack under IDDSI Standards 

Asst. Prof. Dr. Varanya Techasukthavorn, head of the research team, revealed the origin of this innovation: elderly people often have trouble chewing and swallowing food, which causes them to receive insufficient nutrients, resulting in muscle loss. Continuous research on food for people with swallowing difficulties has led to the development of “46 swallowing training foods based on international IDDSI standards.” This sparked requests for ready-to-eat snacks that are high in nutrients and safe to swallow for the elderly. Hence, the “High Protein Jelly Pudding with Modified Texture for the Elderly with Swallowing Difficulties” was created as a between-meal supplement with delicious flavors that appeal to Thai tastes for elderly people. The product is marketed under the name “Elderine,” developed in collaboration with Banpong Novitat Co., Ltd. 

“The research and development of the high-protein jelly pudding formula took more than 1 year, going through various processes in the laboratory. Experiments were done to modify the texture and enhance nutritional value, adjusting the proportions of raw ingredients and flavors as well as examining the texture. The product was then evaluated by 30 elderly volunteers before undergoing the production technology that best meets the requirements,” Asst. Prof. Dr. Varanya stated.

2-in-1 jelly pudding: high-protein and chewable, an innovation for every age

Asst. Prof. Dr. Varanya explained the unique characteristic of the newly developed high-protein jelly pudding: “it differs from the jelly pudding sold in the market in that it has a 2-in-1 texture. The ready-to-eat jelly texture maintains its stability on a spoon and can become a soft pudding texture when lightly mashed with a spoon, helping elderly people chew and consume food even without teeth. 

Moreover, this high-protein jelly pudding contains up to 7 grams of a special whey protein isolate per cup without hardening the texture or making it bitter. It incorporates modified cassava starch with glucose polymer molecules to achieve a low glycemic index, and the texture is optimized with a balanced blend of carrageenan and other gelling agents. Using advanced production technology, the product can be stored at room temperature for up to 6 months while maintaining the same quality and texture. Currently, two flavors have been developed to suit the Thai palate: banana and strawberry. Each cup of jelly pudding provides 70-80 calories of energy and 7-8 grams of easily digestible protein, equivalent to one chicken egg. It serves as a healthy snack that can be consumed up to 2 cups per day. 

Besides the elderly, the product is suitable for various groups of consumers, e.g., those who have recently had their teeth or wisdom teeth removed, causing difficulty chewing; teenagers who want to increase their protein intake; cancer patients who need a lot of protein supplements; and those who would like to build muscle, etc.

This high-protein jelly pudding innovation received support from Dr. Chaiwut Gamonpilas from the National Metal and Materials Technology Center (MTEC)National Science and Technology Development Agency (NSTDA), who conducted an oral tribology test on the texture and slipperiness of the jelly pudding.

Toward Medical Food Innovation for the Elderly 

Currently, this product is in the process of patent application. For the future, Asst. Prof. Dr. Varanya shared plans to register the product as a special-purpose food in the form of medical food. In collaboration with a research team (Asst. Prof. Dr. Pattra Wattanapan from the Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University), a human research study will be conducted to test the effectiveness of the high-protein jelly pudding product on increasing muscle mass in elderly people. The team is also expanding collaboration with a research team from Japan for commercial production of the jelly pudding. It is expected to be available in the market around this coming October. 

Asst. Prof. Dr. Varanya is committed to studying food products for those with swallowing difficulties, with plans to develop products in other forms, such as Thai desserts for the elderly, as well as functional food products with other added nutrients essential for the elderly, like fiber to help with digestion.

For the full release and more images, please visit: https://www.chula.ac.th/en/highlight/246841/

About Chulalongkorn University

Chulalongkorn University has made the world’s top 50 university list for employment outcomes, which reflects both the high employment rate and work ability of Chula graduates. The university is also listed as the best in Thailand for the 15th Consecutive Year (since 2009), according to the newly released QS World University Rankings 2024, putting Chula at 211th in the world, up from 244th last year.

Social Media:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ChulalongkornUniversity
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/chulauniversity
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/school/15101896/

Princess’s Cottage Strengthens Islandwide Presence with Enhanced Services at Four Key Outlets

Salon builds on nearly two decades of trust with improved amenities and premium Japanese products across Tampines, Pasir Ris, Orchard, and Sengkang.

SINGAPORE, Aug. 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Princess’s Cottage: The Nails Story continues to reinforce its position as one of Singapore’s most trusted beauty destinations with significant service enhancements across its four key outlets at Tampines Mart, Pasir Ris Mall, 111 Somerset, and The Seletar Mall. These upgrades reflect the brand’s ongoing commitment to quality, comfort, and professional excellence.

Having served the community for nearly 20 years, Princess’s Cottage has built a loyal customer base by prioritising hygiene, transparent pricing, and a no hard-selling policy. The latest improvements include the introduction of premium, non-toxic Japanese gel systems, enhanced hygiene protocols, and a renewed focus on service consistency through staff training.

“We believe in evolving with our clients’ needs,” said Joanna Lee, Founder of Princess’s Cottage. “These service upgrades are part of our promise to offer both indulgent and reliable care—whether it’s a routine grooming appointment or a special treat.”

Known for its fairytale-inspired charm and customer-first philosophy, Princess’s Cottage caters to a diverse clientele seeking clean, gentle, and professional nail services. From classic and spa treatments to waterless pedicures and custom nail art, the salon ensures healthy nails with every luxurious touch.

With the latest round of enhancements, Princess’s Cottage reaffirms its role not just as a beauty service provider, but as a trusted partner in clients’ self-care routines.

For more information, visit www.princessscottage.com

ABOUT PRINCESS’ COTTAGE: THE NAILS STORY

Established in 2006, Princess’s Cottage: The Nails Story is a boutique nail salon brand that blends professional nail care with fairytale charm. With outlets at Tampines Mart, Pasir Ris Mall, 111 Somerset, and The Seletar Mall, the salon offers expert manicures, pedicures, custom nail art, and waterless Foot + Nail Care using premium, non-toxic Japanese products. Known for its integrity, hygiene, and transparent pricing, Princess’s Cottage provides a pampering experience that’s as trustworthy as it is beautiful. Learn more at https://www.princessscottage.com/

Media Contact:

Name:

Joanna Lee

Email:

info@princessscottage.com

Organization:

Princess’s Cottage: The Nails Story

Address:

111 Somerset Road #02-37 Singapore 238164

Phone:

90901500

Website:

www.princessscottage.com