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GSM launches Xanh SM platform, officially distributes VinFast VF 3 and VF 5 electric vehicles in Laos


VIENTIANE, LAOS – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 May 2025 – Green and Smart Mobility Joint Stock Company (GSM), the operator of Xanh SM – Southeast Asia’s first all-electric ride-hailing service – has officially launched the Xanh SM Platform in Laos. In tandem, GSM announced the official distribution of two electric vehicle models, the VinFast VF 3 and VF 5, in the country.

Mr. Nguyễn Văn Duy, First Secretary of the Vietnamese Embassy in Laos (third from the left), joined representatives of GSM and other distinguished guests in cutting the ribbon at the grand opening of the first VinFast store in Laos.
Mr. Nguyễn Văn Duy, First Secretary of the Vietnamese Embassy in Laos (third from the left), joined representatives of GSM and other distinguished guests in cutting the ribbon at the grand opening of the first VinFast store in Laos.

Laos is the second international market, following Vietnam, where GSM is deploying its comprehensive model that integrates electric vehicle distribution with eco-friendly ride-hailing services. This expansion marks a strategic milestone in GSM’s “Go Green Global” vision, underscoring its pioneering role in bringing Vietnam’s sustainable transportation model to the regional stage.

Following more than a year of successful operations in Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Savannakhet, and Champasak, Xanh SM has earned strong support from Laotian users. Millions have embraced the service, traveling over 8 million electric kilometers and collectively reducing carbon emissions equivalent to what 70,000 trees absorb in a year—highlighting the model’s compatibility with and impact on the local market.

Building on this foundation, GSM is now introducing the Xanh SM Platform – an open technology solution that empowers VinFast VF 5 owners in Laos to become ride-hailing partners and generate sustainable income.

With a highly competitive revenue-sharing model offering drivers up to 87% of fare income—among the highest in the Laotian market—the Xanh SM Platform not only ensures attractive earnings but also provides access to a large customer base through the Xanh SM ecosystem. Partners will benefit from comprehensive training programs aligned with international standards for green transport services.

Coinciding with the platform launch, GSM also opened its first VinFast showroom in Laos, located on Kaysone Phomvihane Road, Phakao Village, Xaythany District. The company officially introduced and commenced sales of the VinFast VF 3 and VF 5, with GSM serving as the exclusive distributor for VinFast vehicles in Laos.

The VinFast VF 5 is a compact urban SUV, ideal for service operations with its spacious interior, smart design, and optimized performance. It is listed at 450,297,000 Kip (approx. USD 20,690, VAT included). Customers placing deposits before May 31, 2025, will receive a direct discount of 9,794,000 Kip (USD 450) and enjoy 50% off charging fees for two years (until June 30, 2027). Alternatively, the charging benefit can be converted into a USD 1,000 cash discount on the vehicle price. This brings the total incentive package to 31,558,000 Kip (USD 1,450), lowering the effective cost to just 418,740,000 Kip (USD 19,240).

The VinFast VF 3 is a four-seat mini electric car designed for everyday personal use—perfect for young drivers and first-time car owners. The VF 3 is priced at 269,656,000 Kip (USD 12,390, VAT included). Early customers depositing by May 31, 2025, will receive a discount of 5,440,000 Kip (USD 250) and 50% off charging costs for two years (until June 30, 2027). Customers may also convert this benefit into a USD 250 cash deduction from the purchase price, bringing the total incentive value to 10,880,000 Kip (USD 500), reducing the effective price to around USD 11,890.

Mr. Nguyen Van Thanh, Global CEO of GSM, shared: “The launch of the Xanh SM Platform in Laos is not merely a market expansion—it represents a strategic export of a comprehensive sustainable development model where technology, environmental responsibility, and economic opportunity converge. We believe Vietnam is not only capable of producing green vehicles, but also of leading the global mobility transition. Xanh SM is living proof of that vision.”

The simultaneous launch of the Xanh SM Platform and the official distribution of the VF 3 and VF 5 in Laos further strengthens the presence of Vietnamese innovation on the global green mobility map. It also reflects GSM’s long-term commitment to supporting the Laotian people in building a modern, environmentally friendly, and sustainable transportation infrastructure.

Hashtag: #GSM #XanhSM

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

InvestHK showcases Hong Kong as Asia’s gateway during Cairo visit


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 May 2025 – Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), the Hong Kong government’s investment promotion arm, announced today (17 May 2025) that Ms Alpha Lau, Director-General of Investment Promotion at InvestHK, visited Cairo, Egypt, to engage with Egyptian businesses eager to establish operations in Hong Kong and capitalise on Asia-Pacific opportunities. During her visit, Ms Lau will attend the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area Economic and Trade Cooperation Conference (Cairo) on 19 May.

At the conference, she engaged with leading Egyptian companies and entrepreneurs, highlighting Hong Kong’s advantages as a regional hub, underpinned by its professional workforce, robust rule of law, low and simple tax system, and strategic location at the heart of Asia.

Hong Kong–Egypt Economic Ties Flourished

In 2023, InvestHK signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the General Authority for Investment and Free Zones (GAFI) of the Arab Republic of Egypt, pledging mutual co-operation on investment promotion exchanges and support. In 2024, the department has opened a new office in Cairo, Egypt, to enhance its effort in attracting companies from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region to set up or expand their businesses in Hong Kong.

In 2024, Hong Kong and Egypt enjoyed a vibrant trade relationship, with bilateral merchandise trade reaching HK$2.1 billion (US$0.3 billion), a 5.4% increase from 2023. This growing economic connection underscored the potential for deeper commercial collaboration.

Hong Kong’s Investment Environment

Hong Kong is considered to be one of the most liberal and easiest places to do business in the world, as reflected in many renowned international rankings. To name just a few, the Business Ready 2024 Report published by the World Bank Group has ranked Hong Kong the first in “International Trade”; Hong Kong also ranked as the world’s freest economy in the “Economic Freedom of the World: 2024 Annual Report” by the Fraser Institute and the 5th most competitive economy in the “World Competitiveness Yearbook 2024” by the International Institute for Management Development; and according to the “World Investment Report 2024” released by the United Nations Trade and Development in June 2024, Hong Kong was the 4th largest recipient of FDI inflow in 2023 globally.

Ms Lau said, “Egypt’s strategic location as a gateway to Africa and the Middle East, combined with its dynamic and diversified economy, makes it a natural partner for Hong Kong. Hong Kong, as Asia’s leading international financial hub and Asia’s business Launchpad, offers Egyptian enterprises a reliable platform to access Mainland China and the broader Asia-Pacific region.”

She added, “Our team in Cairo is ready to assist Egyptian companies to set up and expand their businesses in Hong Kong. We offer one-stop customised support services, from the planning to implementation stages. We look forward to working with you closely to unlock new opportunities across Asia.”

Hashtag: #InvestHK

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

Lightning Strike at Angkor Wat Kills Three, Injures Dozens

People were injured because of the lightning ((Photo: Khmer Times)

On the evening of 16 May, a lightning strike hit the Angkor Wat temple in Siem Reap, Cambodia, killing three people and injuring many others. Most of the victims were Cambodian.

The lightning strike happened around 5:00 pm, during a traditional spiritual ceremony held by locals on top of the temple while it was raining.

Cambodian officials have not yet confirmed the exact number of people affected.

Early reports suggest that the temple may not have had a proper lightning protection system, which could have made the situation worse.

After the news spread online, many Cambodian social media users urged others not to share the story, fearing it could scare away tourists and harm the country’s reputation.

Green and Smart Mobility Launches EV Platform, VinFast Car Sales in Laos

Green and Smart Mobility Launches EV Platform, VinFast Car Sales in Laos

On 17 May, Green and Smart Mobility Joint Stock Company (GSM), the operator of Xanh SM – Southeast Asia’s first all-electric ride-hailing service officially launched the Xanh SM Platform in Laos. 

Ireland, WFP Back Climate-Resilient Farming for Women in Northern Laos

Food insecurity Affecting Over 1 Million People In Laos
2022 FAO/WFP CROP AND FOOD SECURITY ASSESSMENT MISSION (CFSAM) TO THE LAOS. ( Photo : WFP )

Press Release – The Ambassador of Ireland to Laos, Deirdre Ní Fhallúin, announced on 16 May Ireland’s funding of EUR 400,000 (approximately USD 432,000) to the United Nations World Food Program (WFP) in support of a project aimed at enhancing food and nutrition security and promoting climate-resilient farming practices in Laos, with a strong focus on empowering women in agriculture.

The newly announced funding will directly benefit 25 climate-vulnerable communities and an estimated 1,000 women farmers across the northern provinces of Oudomxay, Houaphanh, and Xiengkhouang. The project is being implemented in close collaboration with the Lao Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, as well as provincial and district-level departments and extension services.

This initiative aims to assist farmers and rural households, particularly women, youth, and ethnic groups, in addressing pressing challenges such as food insecurity, malnutrition, and poverty.

It will do so by increasing access to diverse and nutritious food, strengthening the resilience of women farmers through the promotion of climate-smart agriculture and community-based disaster risk management, and improving financial inclusion through the provision of grants that support women in developing and expanding local agricultural production.

This project reflects Ireland’s continued commitment to supporting the Government of Laos in achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 2 on ending hunger, achieving food security, and improving nutrition and sustainable agriculture, as well as SDG 13 on climate action.

“Ireland prioritizes support for climate adaptation and resilience as part of our development cooperation approach in South East Asia, particularly in countries most vulnerable to the effects of climate change,” Ambassador Ní Fhallúin said. “This project, in collaboration with the WFP and funded through the Embassy of Ireland in Hanoi, reflects Ireland’s commitment to climate action and delivering sustainable development. We are particularly glad to be supporting rural women farmers through this project, as they play a critical role in food production and household nutrition across Laos.”

Marc-André Prost, WFP Representative to Laos, welcomed Ireland’s contribution and highlighted the project’s importance in strengthening vulnerable communities’ ability to adapt to climate-related challenges.

“Climate change is already affecting food production and livelihoods across many communities in Laos. This project supports innovative and locally adapted approaches to help communities not just survive, but thrive in the face of these challenges,” Prost said. “Through this program, we are helping some of the most vulnerable communities in the country adapt to climate change. Our collaboration with Ireland and with the Government of Laos highlights the importance of addressing the simultaneous challenges of poverty, gender inequality and climate change, impacting the lives of many families in this area.”

Ireland has been a development partner to Laos since 2006, with programs focusing on humanitarian mine action, food security, education, and nutrition. Under the Embassy of Ireland’s Mission Strategy 2023–2027, Ireland has scaled up its development cooperation in the country, aiming to deepen its impact and support additional priority areas, including climate action and governance.

TruCare Dental Invites Community to ‘Complimentary Orthodontic Consultation Days


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 May 2025 – TruCare Dental is inviting the public to take the first step toward a healthier and more confident smile by attending its upcoming Complimentary Orthodontic Consultation Days. The event will be held on May 24 and June 28, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at the clinic’s conveniently located Tsim Sha Tsui practice.

Transforming Smiles Through Expert Guidance

Orthodontic Consultation Days are tailored for anyone considering braces or aligners but uncertain about their options. Attendees will benefit from the expertise of TruCare Dental’s highly qualified team—all graduates of the University of Hong Kong’s Bachelor of Dental Surgery program—who will provide personalized, one-on-one orthodontic assessments and clear recommendations.

What Participants Can Expect

Guests who register for the event will receive:

  • Comprehensive oral evaluation: A detailed examination by a registered dentist to assess individual needs
  • Bite and alignment analysis: Professional insights into current dental alignment and potential improvements
  • Preliminary diagnosis and treatment planning: Customized guidance on possible orthodontic solutions
  • Overview of braces and aligner options: Information on both traditional metal braces and modern invisible aligners
  • Transparent discussion of pros, cons, and timelines: Clear explanations regarding each treatment’s suitability, advantages, and expected duration
  • Cost breakdown and installment options: Detailed cost estimates and available payment plans for affordable care
In addition, the TruCare Dental team will dispel common myths—such as the misconception that orthodontic treatment is only for children or that it damages teeth—enabling participants to make confident, informed decisions.

TruCare Dental is dedicated to delivering exceptional dental care with a strong emphasis on patient education and individualized treatment. The clinic’s mission is to help every patient achieve optimal oral health and a confident smile through compassionate, professional service.

Registration Details

Due to the personalized nature of the consultations, advance registration is required and spaces are limited. Interested individuals are encouraged to secure an appointment as soon as possible by calling 2152 0280 or by visiting the online registration page.

Event Venue:
Room 2201, 22/F, Tower A, Mira Place, Tsim Sha Tsui
Hashtag: #TruCareDental

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

Cambodia’s Biggest Airport to Open in July, Ending Pochentong’s 70-Year Run

Cambodia’s New USD 1.5 Billion Airport to Open in July as Pochentong Prepares to Close. (Photo: Khmer Times)

Cambodia is preparing to open the USD 1.5 billion Techo International Airport (TIA) on 10 July, with final checks underway and construction now 96 percent complete.

The new facility will replace Pochentong International Airport, which is set to close for passenger operations after nearly 70 years in service.

Located around 20 kilometers south of Phnom Penh in Kandal and Takeo provinces, TIA spans 2,600 hectares and is built to Level 4F international standards, allowing it to handle large long-haul aircraft such as the Airbus A380 and Boeing 747-800.

The airport is being developed by Cambodia Airport Investment Co., Ltd., a joint venture between the Royal Government of Cambodia and the Overseas Cambodian Investment Corporation.

Pochentong to Be Preserved

All passenger operations will transfer from Pochentong International Airport, also known as Phnom Penh International Airport, to TIA in July. However, Prime Minister Hun Manet has confirmed that the government has no plans to sell Pochentong Airport to any private company.

Speaking at the 80th anniversary of Cambodia’s National Police, Hun Manet said the old airport would be preserved as a state-owned facility for use as a backup in case of emergencies and to honor its historical value as a project initiated by King Norodom Sihanouk.

Boost for Aviation Sector

The launch of TIA comes as Cambodia’s aviation sector rebounds strongly. In 2024, the country’s three international airports handled 6.2 million passengers, with 31 domestic and international airlines operating flights.

TIA is expected to ease congestion, boost connectivity, and support Cambodia’s growing tourism and trade sectors. Authorities are now focused on final certification and operational readiness to ensure the airport meets global aviation standards in time for the official opening.

LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort Launches Asia’s Biggest LEGO® School Challenge 2025

Grand Prize Trip to Korea, New Speed Building Finale, and Unforgettable Prizes Await Young Builders!


JOHOR BAHRU, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 May 2025 – Ready, set, build! The most anticipated LEGO® school event in Asia is back—and it’s bigger, bolder, and more inspiring than ever. The LEGOLAND® Malaysia School Challenge 2025, organized in partnership with the Ministry of Education, kicks off its fourth edition with a mission to unlock the boundless creativity of students across the region.

(From left to right) Ms Stephane Thong, General Manager, Trip.com Malaysia, Ms Thila Munusamy, Director of Sales and Marketing, LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort, Mr Samuel Lee, Deputy Director General of the Malaysian Tourism Promotion Board, Mr Mohamad Zaidi Bin Ishak, Deputy Director of Sports, Co-Curricular and Arts Department, Ministry of Education Malaysia and Mr Cs Lim, Vice President, LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort
(From left to right) Ms Stephane Thong, General Manager, Trip.com Malaysia, Ms Thila Munusamy, Director of Sales and Marketing, LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort, Mr Samuel Lee, Deputy Director General of the Malaysian Tourism Promotion Board, Mr Mohamad Zaidi Bin Ishak, Deputy Director of Sports, Co-Curricular and Arts Department, Ministry of Education Malaysia and Mr Cs Lim, Vice President, LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort

Since its inception in 2022, the Challenge has become a regional phenomenon. Following record-breaking participation in 2024, this year promises an even more thrilling experience, packed with new features and prizes that spark imagination and ignite a passion for learning.

New Theme, New Thrills: “Build Your Dream Destination”
Now open to three age categories (7–9, 10–12, and 13–17), the 2025 edition challenges students to design their ideal travel destination using LEGO bricks. Whether it’s a futuristic underwater world, an island of imagination, or a dreamland among the stars, participants are encouraged to combine creativity, storytelling, and technical building skills to bring magical destinations to life.

What’s New in 2025?
Two major updates make this year’s Challenge truly unmissable:

  • Grand Prizes Go Global: Winners from the Primary and Secondary Categories will experience a trip to LEGOLAND Korea, while Junior Category champions will enjoy a getaway at LEGOLAND Malaysia.
  • Speed Building Showdown: For the first time, the finale will feature a high-energy Speed Building Challenge. The Top 5 finalist teams in each category will compete live in front of a judging panel and audience, racing against the clock to create an original LEGO build in just 45 minutes.

Each finalist team will also enjoy a 3D2N stay at LEGOLAND Hotel, receive exclusive LEGO trophies, exciting LEGO sets, and Annual Passes to LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort.

Inspiring Young Innovators: A Story of Growth
Among the Challenge’s most inspiring alumni is Nathanael Yap, a three-time Grand Prize winner. At the launch event, he shared:

“Being part of the LEGOLAND School Challenge for three years in a row was honestly one of the best parts of my school life. Every year, I got to team up with friends, solve problems in creative ways, and build something we were proud of — brick by brick. It taught me how fun learning can be when you get to think outside the box.

Even though I’ve graduated and can’t take part anymore, the experience has stayed with me. As I look ahead to university and start thinking more seriously about my future, I realise how much the Challenge helped shape my interests — especially in areas like design, engineering, and creative thinking. I’m excited to see what this year’s participants will build, and I hope they take the chance to push themselves and discover what they’re capable of.”

His story reflects what the Challenge is all about – empowering young minds to explore, imagine, and create.

Shaping Future Creators, One Brick at a Time
Cs Lim, Vice President of LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort, remarked, “The LEGOLAND School Challenge has always been more than just a competition. As an event centered around our LEGO DNA of learning through play, it helps cultivate essential skills such as problem solving, critical thinking, and innovation in our future leaders. Since we expanded last year to include participation from schools across Asia, this has also become an avenue for cultural exchange for students and teachers alike. We look forward to welcoming more participants this year across the region and seeing their creativity unleashed.”

The 2025 Challenge is proudly supported by the Ministry of Education, Tourism Malaysia, Trip.com Group, and the LEGO Group—all sharing a common goal: to ignite the passions of the next generation of builders, dreamers, and doers.

Register for the LEGOLAND School Challenge 2025
The competition is open to students aged 7 to 17 across three separate categories:

  • Junior: Ages 7 to 9
  • Primary: Ages 10 to 12
  • Secondary: Ages 13 to 17

Each team must consist of 3-4 students and 1 teacher. Registration is open from now until 15 June 2025 via https://www.legoland.com.my/tickets-passes/day-tickets/schools/school-challenge/. Follow us for updates, tips and behind-the-scenes on Facebook and Instagram.

Let your imagination run wild. Build your dream destination—and win the trip of a lifetime!

Hashtag: #LEGOLAND® #LEGO®




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

LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort

LEGOLAND® Malaysia Resort brings together a LEGOLAND Theme Park, Water Park, Hotel and SEA LIFE in one LEGO® themed location. It is the ideal family holiday destination with more than 80 hands-on rides, slides, shows, and attractions. It is the first of its kind in Asia that offers comprehensive adventure, education, and fun for either an action-packed day trip or a short break destination ideal for families with kids aged 2 to 12 years old.

The Theme Park is divided into eight themed areas containing thrilling rides, exciting LEGO workshops, awe-inspiring Miniland where Asia’s interesting landscapes, countries and landmarks are recreated in miniature made with more than 30 million LEGO bricks. The Water Park is the largest LEGOLAND Water Park in Asia which features 20 unique slides, waves, wade pools, interactive water-play structure and Build-A-Raft River.

LEGOLAND Hotel Malaysia is the first LEGO themed hotel in Asia. Choose your preferred theme room at a hotel all equipped with LEGO theming elements, giving you choices to be trained like a NINJA, playing pirate, commanding a Kingdom or embarking on an adventure option. All rooms include a king-sized bed for parents and a separate private sleeping area for 3 kids. Participate in our in-room treasure hunt activity and stand a chance to win cool LEGO gifts.

SEA LIFE is the world’s largest international aquarium brand with more than 50 outlets in the world and it is the latest addition to LEGOLAND Malaysia Resort. This attraction will immerse all guests in an intimate and interactive journey underneath the waves. All guests will have a chance to enjoy up-close experiences with sea creatures and be inspired to learn more about our blue planet’s invaluable natural marine assets through magical storytelling, interactive displays and hands-on encounters. SEA LIFE Malaysia has more than 25 display tanks in 11 habitat zones featuring 13,000 amazing sea creatures. The Malaysian Rainforest is one of the unique exhibit zones featuring local creatures in Malaysia. Don’t miss this special zone where you can never find it in other SEA LIFE attractions.