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A Worldwide Celebration for Spring Festival

Watch the 7-hour Live Stream
“Legendary Chinese Festival: Chinese New Year 2025”
on Chinese New Year’s Eve

BEIJING, Jan. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — As a prelude to this year’s China Media Group Spring Festival Gala, CCTV-4 is broadcasting its own special gala with an international flavor.

“Legendary Chinese Festival: Chinese New Year 2025” is being broadcast just months after the celebrations for Chinese New Year were listed as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. It will take as its theme “Intangible Cultural Heritage Spring Festival Shared with the World”.

A global network of studios will turn the spotlight on various countries’ traditional New Year customs. They will also showcase the celebrations by overseas Chinese communities as they welcome the New Year. A greater appreciation of the cultural heritage associated with Spring Festival will encourage viewers worldwide to join in the celebrations with Chinese people at home and overseas.

In a broadcasting first, viewers will be able to follow the last-minute preparations for the CMG Spring Festival Gala in real time. Interviews with celebrity guests, the cast and crew, and links to the four sub-venues, will reveal not only the behind-the-scenes stories, but also the amazing technology, that help to create this global broadcasting phenomenon. 

The CCTV-4 gala will also travel to New Year fairs in various parts of China, as well as various folk performances. There will even be visits to rural China to see the traditional Spring Festival Eve village galas. A special segment, “Chinese New Year in Intangible Cultural Heritage”, will, by exploring local history and culture, help the global audience to appreciate the richness of the Spring Festival celebrations.

Immediately before the gala, starting at 10am, a live stream, “Legendary Chinese Festival: The Arrival of the New Year” will be launched on the “Legendary Chinese Festivals” Yangshipin account and CCTV-4’s own multimedia platforms. Viewers will be taken to fairs, shown various folk customs, and introduced to the latest Spring Festival trends.

CCTV-4 will air “Legendary Chinese Festival: Chinese New Year 2025” from 1pm to 8pm, Beijing Time, on January 28.

Poster of A Worldwide Celebration for Spring Festival Watch the 7-hour Live Stream “Legendary Chinese Festival Chinese New Year 2025” on Chinese New Year’s Eve
Poster of A Worldwide Celebration for Spring Festival Watch the 7-hour Live Stream “Legendary Chinese Festival Chinese New Year 2025” on Chinese New Year’s Eve

 

Echoes of Celebration: China New Year Comes Alive in Laos

Echoes of Celebration: China New Year Comes Alive in Laos
Lively lion dances captivate the crowd at the Chinese New Year celebration at China Cultural Center in Laos (Photo credit: CCC Laos)

Lunar New Year, also known as Chinese New Year, has long been celebrated not only in China but also across Southeast Asia. Laos is not an exception, with the Chinese-Lao, Korean, and Vietnamese communities beginning their celebrations on 29 January and continuing for 15 days, becoming part of the historical and cultural ties to the country.

Government Empowers Teachers in Rural Laos Through Workshop

Teachers attend a Lao speaking skills training session in Xieng Khuang province. (Photo: Vientiane Times)

Over 1,120 educators are participating in training workshops this month, aimed at improving classroom management and helping non-Lao speaking students better understand their lessons.

National Grid charging stations in the Nanjing area have achieved full green electricity supply throughout the year

NANJING, China, Jan. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Recently, new energy vehicle owners in Nanjing received significant news. Mr. Li, a new energy vehicle owner, was pleasantly surprised to notice an “all green electricity” label on the information page of a charging station in Jiangbei New Area, a high-tech zone in Nanjing. This label signifies that the site exclusively uses green electricity for charging new energy vehicles.

Since January this year, all 351 charging stations and 2,573 charging piles operated by the State Grid Corporation in Nanjing have fully transitioned to green electricity supply, which will continue throughout the year. This initiative is expected to consume approximately 72 million KWH of green electricity annually, serving over 2.8 million new energy vehicles traveling 360 million kilometers, thereby reducing carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 41,000 tons.

Green electricity primarily originates from clean energy sources such as solar and wind power, which have minimal environmental impact and are highly effective in reducing pollution and carbon emissions. The State Grid Nanjing Power Supply Company has introduced green electricity into the charging sector through green certificate trading, not only leading the trend of green travel but also promoting societal low-carbon transformation.

Furthermore, the State Grid Nanjing Power Supply Company has invested in constructing comprehensive charging stations that utilize smart microgrids to achieve on-site consumption of green electricity. Additionally, the company actively advocates for increased policy support from relevant government departments for new energy vehicle charging infrastructure, encouraging social charging operators to participate in green electricity consumption and jointly fostering a positive atmosphere for green travel.

HK Accident Lawyers Launches Free Consultation Hotline for Traffic Accident Victims Assistance Scheme Applications


HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 January 2025 – To assist traffic accident victims in understanding the application process for the Traffic Accident Victims Assistance Scheme (commonly referred to as “車手獎”), HK Accident Lawyers has officially launched a Free Consultation Hotline. Through this service, users can fill out a simple form, and our professional team will respond within one working day to provide guidance on common questions regarding the application process.

Hotline Details
HK Accident Lawyers aims to provide traffic accident victims with free information and support to help them navigate the application process for the Traffic Accident Victims Assistance Scheme. It is important to emphasize that we only provide information and guidance; we do not submit applications or handle any application matters on behalf of users. All communication and interactions with the Social Welfare Department must be handled directly by the applicant.

With this hotline, we offer:

  • Explanation of the basic requirements and procedures for applying for the Traffic Accident Victims Assistance Scheme.
  • Guidance on how to prepare the necessary documents and information.
  • Answers to common questions about the application process.

Due to recent media coverage of the Traffic Accident Victims Assistance Scheme, we anticipate an increase in inquiries, which may lead to slightly delayed response times. We appreciate your understanding and patience as we strive to provide the most professional and efficient service to every user.

Important Disclaimer
HK Accident Lawyers serves solely as an impartial platform providing information. We do not provide legal advice, and the information shared through the hotline does not constitute legal guidance or professional opinion. Our role is to assist users in understanding the application process, and the final responsibility for application results lies solely with the applicant.
Hashtag: #HKAccidentLawyers #TrafficAccidentVictimsAssistanceScheme

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

About HK Accident Lawyers

is dedicated to providing traffic accident victims with free legal information and lawyer-matching services, helping them connect with suitable professional lawyers to safeguard their rights. In addition to launching the Traffic Accident Victims Assistance Scheme hotline, we offer a wide range of traffic accident resources and support services, striving to be a trusted partner for the public.

For more details or to use the free consultation hotline for the Traffic Accident Victims Assistance Scheme, please visit:

Slither into Savings with iShopChangi’s Lunar New Year Bonanza in Singapore

Kick off the Year of the Snake early with iShopChangi as it rolls out a dazzling array of deals on Lunar New Year essentials. Avoid the festive frenzy and enjoy unbeatable discounts of up to 60% on everything you need to usher in prosperity and joy. From gourmet treats and traditional “Nian Huo” to spring cleaning supplies, exquisite liquors, and fashionable finds, celebrate with flair from now through February at your ultimate online shopping destination.


SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 January 2025 – From now to 28 February 2025, travellers and non-travellers can wrap themselves in savings while diving into the spirit of the Lunar New Year on iShopChangi. Revel in a parade of premium selections across categories like gourmet food, fine liquors, home essentials, and more, featuring top brands such as Kinohimitsu, Dyson, Hennessy and Sulwhasoo. Plus, with gift-wrapping services and on-demand delivery, celebrating in style is made effortless. Celebrate the Year of the Snake and skip the crowds by shopping online without tax, whether flying or not.

Kick off the Year of the Snake early with iShopChangi as it rolls out a dazzling array of deals on Lunar New Year essentials.
Kick off the Year of the Snake early with iShopChangi as it rolls out a dazzling array of deals on Lunar New Year essentials.

Wrap Yourself in Lunar Prosperity

Delight in a carefully selected assortment featuring renowned brands, from top-tier or award-winning skincare like Sulwhasoo and Ble De Fonty, to sought-after liquors and cutting-edge home and living gadgets from Dyson. Whether updating home decor for festive gatherings or selecting gifts, iShopChangi offers luxury and local favourites to suit every preference—ensuring a prosperous start to the Year of the Snake.

Ready to discover incredible deals? Secure these exclusive promo codes for exceptional savings!

Lunar New Year Sale (For Non-Travellers and Travellers)
From now till 28 February 2025
Code Description
25CNY10 10%* off with no min. spend, capped at S$28
25CNY15 15%* off with min. spend S$550, capped at S$118

*T&Cs and product exclusions apply. Refer to https://www.ishopchangi.com/en/campaigns/cny-2025 for full terms and conditions.

Festive Feasts for New Year Celebrations

Ready your home for Lunar New Year gatherings with crowd-pleasing delights. Take home the [Bundle of 4] Kinohimitsu Abalone in Brine Soup, featuring superior Japanese abalone for S$48.80, down 46%. Set the snack table with Mdm Ling Bakery’s SET C – 2024 CNY Cookies, which include Premium Pineapple Balls and more, all in vibrant, floral gift boxes for S$91.20. For a traditional touch, choose Shermay’s Singapore Fine Food [Bundle], which combines Prawn Keropok, Keropok Fries, and Fish Packet, perfect for festive sharing that’ll keep the party going at S$21.88. Boost your celebrations with the [Bundle of 3] Lao Xie Zhen Premium Ginseng Essence, a revitalising mix of White and American Ginseng, perfect for gifting or self-care, priced at S$218.24 after a 37% discount.

Turn Heads with Limited Edition Beauty Finds

Elevate any celebration with a touch of luxury with the [CNY Limited Edition] SULWHASOO First Care Activating Serum VI 90ml Duo, designed to awaken your skin’s radiance, available now for S$178. Follow the magic pearls to the GIORGIO ARMANI My Way Eau De Parfum Holiday Set, where bergamot meets Egyptian orange blossom in a luminous start, complemented by a heart of Indian tuberose and jasmine, all for S$198.90 with a 10% reduction.

New Year, New Look

Spice up your look this Lunar New Year with the Marc Jacobs The Leather Micro Bucket Bag in True Red, crafted from full grain leather, now just S$399 after a 47% discount. Alternatively, enhance your style further with the TORY BURCH Kira Chevron Chain Wallet in Desert Dune, offering a leather shoulder guard for added comfort, available for S$575 after a 14% discount. To elevate your ensemble further, adorn yourself with the CHOW TAI FOOK 999.9 Pure Gold Necklace – Zodiac Snake, featuring 999 pure gold and a complimentary bracelet cord, available for S$1080 with a 10% reduction. Complete your festive attire with Naga Earrings by Bohème, inspired by divine half-human, half-serpent beings, priced at S$238. Men can enhance their sporty style with the Breitling Endurance Pro, a lightweight sports chronograph designed for both athleticism and casual wear, now available for S$4990.91.

Prep for Prosperity & Up Your Game

Prepare for the new year with the Dyson V12 Detect Slim Fluffy, expert at capturing dust, animal hair, and allergens—ensuring a spotless home environment. Get it now for just S$799, after an 11% discount. Simplify your cleaning with the Airbot Robotic Vacuum Cleaner X40 Ultra, perfect for maintaining freshness effortlessly, available for S$880.64 after a massive 63% discount. Of course, celebrating the new year means endless entertainment! Keep post-dinner fun alive with the [FREE SAME DAY DELIVERY] Nintendo Switch (OLED Model) Consoles + Hard Case With Clear Screen Protector, yours for S$369. Also, make any space a concert hall with the Bose SoundLink Flex II Bluetooth Speaker, delivering big, bold sound in a compact form—ideal for bringing the party anywhere, available now for S$209.17.

Celebrate with Spirited CNY Toasts

Elevate your Lunar New Year gatherings with the Hennessy XO 700ML CNY 2025 40%, featuring a deluxe decanter in red and purple, adorned with gold floral and snake-inspired motifs. Encased in a premium 100% recyclable box, it’s a tribute to the Chinese New Year, available for S$300. Complement the celebration with Benriach The Twelve (Snake – LNY Limited Edition), a richly sherry-matured single malt with notes of baked fruit and spiced mocha, now just S$112, thanks to a 25% discount. Round off the toast with COURVOISIER XO Royal CNY 40% 700ML, a regal cognac inspired by the illustrious blends served at royal feasts, now available for S$379.80.

Polish your Lunar New Year gifts with exclusive gift-wrapping services* to add a sophisticated touch. Choose from a selection of elegant gift boxes to make your presents even more special for just S$5. And for those urgent gifting needs, take advantage of rapid On-Demand Delivery—order by 5PM (Monday – Saturday) and receive your items within just 2 hours, with a reduced delivery fee of S$10 (from S$20) till the end of February.

Celebrate New Beginnings with iShopChangi

Kick off the new year by trying your luck with the all-new Changi Millionaire Experiences. Spend S$50 or more on iShopChangi or use Changi Pay to double your chances of winning a bespoke luxury experience per quarter, and/or a Porsche Taycan. Also, get access to Changi Editions (Changi-exclusive premiums).

There’s more for newcomers! For new iShopChangi shoppers, the rewards start immediately. Use the promo code at checkout with a minimum spend of S$79 to enjoy an extra S$20 off your first purchase.

Worried about delivery? As a non-traveller, you can cart out at tax-absorbed prices on iShopChangi and have your items delivered to you for free when you spend at least S$59 and provide a Singapore residential address for delivery. Alternatively, pick up selected products from the T2 Arrival (Public Area) iShopChangi Counter.

Travelling around the world? Enjoy the ultimate convenience and flexibility by shopping for your favourite items up to 30 days in advance and as close as 12 hours before your flight. Collect your order at the various Departure and Arrival Collection Centres. Alternatively, have it conveniently delivered to a local residential address for free with a minimum spend of S$59; an S$8 delivery fee applies for orders below S$59.

Hashtag: #iShopChangi



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

iShopChangi

iShopChangi was launched in 2013 as an extension of Changi Airport’s promise to deliver greater comfort and convenience to travellers in its suite of airport retail offerings. Passengers can browse and purchase tax- and duty-free products across all terminals between 30 days to 12 hours pre-flight on the e-store – and choose to collect their items at Collection Centres within departure, upon arrival or have them delivered free in Singapore. Providing easy access to over 30,000 products across 900 brands and exclusives such as Changi First product launches, the site has since received global recognition with its award for Best Website – Retail Customer Facing at The Moodies: the Airport and Travel Retail Digital Media Awards 2018. In early 2020, the e-commerce store started to retail a selection tax- and duty-absorbed products to Singapore-based residents without the need to fly.

ONYX Hospitality Group Expands the Amari Brand with Exciting New Openings Across Sri Lanka, Laos, and Thailand


BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 January 2025 – ONYX Hospitality Group, Thailand’s leading hospitality management company, is delighted to announce the opening of its latest property and unveil upcoming additions to its Amari portfolio for 2025. The new properties in Sri Lanka, Laos, and Thailand exemplify Amari’s dedication to enriching guest experiences, offering distinctive design, exceptional service, and a deep connection to local culture and stories.

Amari Vientiane - Junior Suite River View - Bedroom 2 (1)

Known for its vibrant warmth and contemporary style inspired by Thai roots, the Amari brand continues to redefine luxury by blending modern elegance with authentic cultural charm.

Amari Colombo, Sri Lanka – Now Open – A Gateway to Sri Lanka’s diverse culture and stunning landscapes

Amari Colombo has proudly opened its doors in the vibrant heart of Sri Lanka’s capital, offering a perfect fusion of modern comfort and the rich heritage of traditional Sri Lanka.

With 167 spacious rooms, the property caters to both leisure and business travellers, serving as a gateway to Sri Lanka’s vibrant culture, beautiful landscapes, and hidden gems.

Key highlights of Amari Colombo include a stunning rooftop pool that offers panoramic views of the vibrant cityscape, dynamic dining options such as Ahāra, which features sustainable seafood prepared with innovative flair, and Prego, the celebrated Italian restaurant making its debut in Sri Lanka. The hotel also features premium lounges and bars like The Chancellor, known for its exquisite mixology, and Club Pahana, an exclusive executive lounge delivering exceptional culinary and beverage experiences.

Amari Colombo is ideally located for those eager to explore the cultural richness of Sri Lanka’s capital. Positioned near the stunning Gangaramaya Temple and vibrant Victoria Park, guests can easily access some of Colombo’s most iconic landmarks. This prime location perfectly complements the warm, inviting Amari hospitality, making it an ideal base for those looking to immerse themselves in the city’s dynamic atmosphere whilst creating unforgettable moments.

For more information: www.amari.com/colombo

Amari Vientiane, Laos – Scheduled to open March 2025 – Upper Upscale hotel offering full-service amenities, overlooking the Mekong River

Amari Vientiane, set along the serene banks of the Mekong River, is poised to become a standout destination for travellers seeking luxury and cultural immersion.

The hotel features 248 meticulously designed rooms and suites, blending modern Lao and Thai aesthetics to create a sophisticated and inviting retreat. Each space offers breathtaking views, whether of the tranquil Mekong or the dynamic cityscape, setting the stage for relaxation and exploration.

Conveniently located just 4.8 kilometres from Wattay International Airport, Amari Vientiane ensures seamless access for leisure and business travellers alike. Guests can delight in an array of world-class amenities, including a rooftop restaurant, the signature Breeze Spa, and the highest executive club lounge in the capital offering stunning panoramic views.

The hotel serves as a perfect starting point for discovering the city’s rich heritage, vibrant markets, and hidden gems. Whether strolling along the riverbanks or delving into Vientiane’s cultural landmarks, Amari Vientiane provides an ideal base for an unforgettable journey into the heart of Laos.

For more information: Amari Vientiane Laos

Amari The Tide Bangsaen – Scheduled to open May 2025 – A beachfront retreat in Thailand, just over an hour from Bangkok, offering breathtaking coastal views

Amari The Tide Bangsaen reimagines The Tide Resort, offering a serene beachfront escape in Chonburi Province, Thailand—an area undergoing significant growth, particularly in tourism. Situated directly opposite Bangsaen Beach, the hotel combines tranquillity with convenience, just over an hour from Bangkok and 45 minutes from Pattaya. Its location provides easy access to local attractions, shops, and restaurants, making it an ideal retreat for leisure and business travellers alike.

The property features 154 stylish rooms and suites, catering to families, couples, and solo adventurers. Guests can enjoy culinary delights at the Amaya restaurant, which serves a mix of Thai and international cuisine, and the Aloha Beach Café, offering a relaxed beachfront dining experience.

Designed for relaxation and recreation, the hotel includes a signature spa, fitness centre, swimming pool, and kids’ club. For business and event travellers, versatile meeting spaces accommodate up to 900 participants.

Bangsaen Beach is a serene and charming coastal escape, offering a relaxing atmosphere with long stretches of golden sand and tranquil waters, ideal for sunbathing and leisurely strolls. The beach is bordered by palm trees and backed by a lively promenade, where visitors can enjoy local seafood and relax in the nearby cafes and restaurants. With its prime location, exceptional facilities, and commitment to hospitality, Amari The Tide Bangsaen promises an unforgettable experience for all guests.

Existing Portfolio Updates – Amari Koh Samui – New Swimming Pool at the Garden Wing and New Room Categories

Alongside the new and upcoming openings, ONYX Hospitality Group remains dedicated to elevating guest experiences by continually enhancing its existing portfolio. The highly acclaimed Amari Koh Samui is proud to announce the completion of a stunning new swimming pool in the resort’s Garden Wing. Thoughtfully designed to exude both sophistication and tranquillity, this latest addition enhances the resort’s family-friendly charm while reaffirming its commitment to delivering exceptional facilities and unforgettable stays. As the third dedicated pool at the resort, each uniquely tailored to its respective wing, this new feature solidifies Amari Koh Samui’s reputation as a premier destination for relaxation and memorable stays.

The new pool will be further enhanced by the upcoming addition of a range of child-friendly aqua toys, designed to captivate younger guests.

Offering idyllic views of the new swimming pool, Amari Koh Samui is also elevating its guest offerings with the introduction of updated room categories in the Garden Wing. Guests can now select from Superior Pool Side, Superior Pool View, and Superior Garden View rooms, each offering unique views and convenient access to the new pool and lush gardens, ensuring a seamless and comfortable stay. In addition, launching in May 2025, the new Tropical Pool Side Connecting Rooms offer the perfect mix of privacy and togetherness for families and friends. These rooms feature connecting doors for seamless access, balconies with tranquil views of the pool and gardens, and the soothing sound of cascading water for ultimate relaxation.

With these exciting new openings and portfolio enhancements, ONYX Hospitality Group continues to strengthen the Amari brand’s presence in Southeast Asia, cementing its position as a leading medium-sized hospitality management company in the region.

For more information on ONYX Hospitality Group please visit: www.onyx-hospitality.com

Hashtag: #ONYX

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

Vietnam Makes Top 5 Debut in Agoda’s 16th Gold Circle Awards, Celebrating Hospitality Excellence

 Thailand retains top spot in Agoda’s annual hospitality awards among Southeast Asian dominance

SINGAPORE, Jan. 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Agoda’s prestigious 16th Gold Circle Awards celebrate Southeast Asia’s exceptional hospitality as Thailand retains its top position while Vietnam breaks into the top five for the first time.

The awards further underscore Southeast Asia’s exceptional performance with four out of the top five accolades awarded to markets within the region, a feat last witnessed in 2021. The national ranking is based on how many hotels win a prestigious award within each market.

Japan took second place with 432 hotels followed by Indonesia (#3) with 365 hotels, Vietnam (#4) with 315 hotels and Malaysia (#5) with 311 hotels, rounding out the top 5 for 2024.

This year the awards ceremony witnessed a 53% increase in Gold Circle Award winners compared to 2023, recognizing a record-breaking 3,545 exceptional properties across the globe in 2024. Notably, nearly 50% of the awards went to independent hotels, highlighting the growing appreciation for unique, personalized guest experiences that emphasize creativity and individuality.

 Vietnam’s groundbreaking climb from 9th place in 2023 to securing a spot within the top 5 this year highlights its 209% increase in award-winning accommodations to the to the hard work of accommodation providers across the market in ensuring that their customers receive the highest level of service.

 “Our Gold Circle Awards serve as a tribute to the dedication and remarkable achievements of our global accommodation partners. Achieving excellence in guest service is ever challenging, yet our partners rise to the occasion year after year,” said Andrew Smith, Senior Vice President of Supply at Agoda. “Vietnam’s entry into the top five showcases its efforts to enhance service quality, reflecting the growing potential of Southeast Asian hospitality.” 

Meanwhile, Thailand’s retention of its top spot from 2023 is testament to its enduring excellence. The adaptability of Thailand’s hospitality sector to shifting traveler expectations demonstrates strong reliability and leadership within the industry.

Over the past five years, Agoda has celebrated more than 2,500 unique winners, cementing its reputation for recognizing unparalleled service across the hospitality sector.

The Agoda Gold Circle Awards are presented to properties that excel in several key areas, including offering value-based pricing for customers, providing outstanding traveler experience, and engaging with Agoda’s programs and campaigns.

These criteria ensure that the winners represent the best in the industry, offering guests an outstanding experience. Agoda’s vast network continues to support travelers worldwide in discovering diverse accommodations, flights, and activities.

The awards ceremonies for the 16th Gold Circle Awards will take place in 9 Asian markets across February and March 2025, with celebrations happening in Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Singapore, India and Thailand.

For more information on the Agoda Gold Circle Awards winners, please visit https://www.agoda.com/goldcircleaward.