HONG KONG, Jun 27, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - The opening ceremony of the "Tang Vogue Beyond the Horizons: A Golden Era of Multicultural Integration and Openness" exhibition, jointly organised by the Development Bureau (DEVB) and the National Cultural Heritage Administration, was held today (June 27). The exhibition will run at the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre from tomorrow (June 28), featuring significant Tang dynasty artefacts unearthed on the Mainland and in Hong Kong to showcase the inclusiveness, diversity and openness of the prosperous Tang dynasty, and introduce Hong Kong's pivotal role in the Maritime Silk Road.Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, said that, as one of the celebration activities of the 28th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland, this is the largest joint exhibition, in terms of profile, scale and quantity of artefacts on display, since the signing of the Framework Agreement on Deepening Exchange and Cooperation in the Field of Heritage Architecture and Archaeology between the DEVB and the National Cultural Heritage Administration in 2022. The exhibition marks a move towards a higher level of mutual co-operation. Hong Kong is an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange. She is eagerly anticipating that the exhibition can showcase the culture of the majestic Tang dynasty to members of the public and friends from all over the world.Other officiating guests at the ceremony were Deputy Administrator of the National Cultural Heritage Administration Mr Qiao Yunfei; the Secretary General of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr Wang Songmiao; the Permanent Secretary for Development (Works), Mr Ricky Lau; the Director of Art Exhibitions China, Mr Tan Ping; the Chairman of the Antiquities Advisory Board, Professor Desmond Hui; and the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Built Heritage Conservation, Professor Douglas So.The opening ceremony of the exhibition entitled "Tang Vogue Beyond the Horizons: A Golden Era of Multicultural Integration and Openness" was held today (June 27) at the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre. Photo shows the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn (centre); Deputy Administrator of the National Cultural Heritage Administration Mr Qiao Yunfei (third right); the Secretary General of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr Wang Songmiao (third left); the Permanent Secretary for Development (Works), Mr Ricky Lau (second right); the Director of Art Exhibitions China, Mr Tan Ping (second left); the Chairman of the Antiquities Advisory Board, Professor Desmond Hui (first right); and the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Built Heritage Conservation, Professor Douglas So (first left), officiating at the opening ceremony.The exhibition is divided into eight sections on the administrative system and governance of the Tang dynasty, the planning of Chang'an city, the life of people, religious beliefs, literati elegance, craftsmanship, prosperous scenes along the Silk Road and Maritime Silk Road, and Hong Kong's role as a node on the Maritime Silk Road in the Tang dynasty. It features 269 significant pieces/sets of artefacts from 28 museums and cultural institutions in 10 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities on the Mainland (including 49 pieces/sets of grade-one cultural relics) and 29 pieces/sets of important artefacts unearthed in Hong Kong and dated to the Tang dynasty.Among the key exhibits are two paintings, namely the "Scroll depicting Emperor Minghuang playing polo", which is a Song dynasty depiction of Emperor Xuanzong of Tang (Minghuang) playing polo with his concubines on horseback; and the hanging scroll of Li Bai's "Chun Ye Yan Tao Li Yuan Xu" (preface to the spring night banquet in the peach and plum garden) on kesi (cut silk) depicting the refined life of Tang dynasty literati. These paintings will only be displayed during the first two months (June 28 to August 27). Other key exhibits include a sancai teaware set with a seated figurine revealing the image of Lu Yu, China's sage of tea; a gold jie comb (hair comb accessory) carved in openwork from a thin piece of gold; a painted figurine of a dancing black man with exotic charm; the "Lun Yu Zheng Xuan Zhu" (the Analects with annotation by Zheng Xuan) copied by Bu Tianshou, which has been included in the first batch of the National Catalogue of Precious Ancient Books; and a crimson gold walking dragon used in ritual ceremonies, which will be displayed throughout the entire exhibition period.The exhibition also displays significant Tang dynasty artefacts unearthed at Chek Lap Kok, Tung Chung and San Tau on Lantau Island in Hong Kong, including ceramic ware, iron weapons, bronze belt ornaments, silver chai hairpin, glass ring, fragment of silver piece, Kai Yuan Tong Bao (circulating treasure from a new era) and Qian Yuan Zhong Bao (heavy treasure of Qian Yuan reign) bronze coins, to illustrate the role of Hong Kong in the Maritime Silk Road.The exhibition will run at the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre in Kowloon Park, Haiphong Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, from tomorrow to December 31 with free admission. For details and a short video on the preparation of the exhibition, please visit the website of the Antiquities and Monuments Office of the DEVB. (Link: https://www.amo.gov.hk/en/visitor-centre/exhibitions/heritage-discovery-centre/tang-exhibition/index.html )The opening ceremony of the exhibition entitled "Tang Vogue Beyond the Horizons: A Golden Era of Multicultural Integration and Openness" was held today (June 27) at the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre. Photo shows the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, giving a speech at the opening ceremony.The opening ceremony of the exhibition entitled "Tang Vogue Beyond the Horizons: A Golden Era of Multicultural Integration and Openness" was held today (June 27) at the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre. Photo shows the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn (second left); Deputy Administrator of the National Cultural Heritage Administration Mr Qiao Yunfei (first right); and the Secretary General of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr Wang Songmiao (second right), touring the exhibition.The opening ceremony of the exhibition entitled "Tang Vogue Beyond the Horizons: A Golden Era of Multicultural Integration and Openness" was held today (June 27) at the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre. Photo shows a sancai teaware set with a seated figurine revealing the image of Lu Yu, China's sage of tea.The opening ceremony of the exhibition entitled "Tang Vogue Beyond the Horizons: A Golden Era of Multicultural Integration and Openness" was held today (June 27) at the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre. Photo shows a crimson gold walking dragon used in ritual ceremonies. Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Prime Minister Paetongtarn Positions Thailand as Regional AI Ethics Leader: Official Launch of AIGPC at the UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of AI 2025
BANGKOK, June 27, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Thailand has affirmed its commitment to ethical and inclusive artificial intelligence by hosting the 3rd UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of AI 2025, a Center to Support AI for Economy, Society, and Human Rights at Centara Grand at CentralWorld from June 24 to 27. The event brought together representatives from 104 countries. In her keynote speech, H.E. Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra stated, “AI is no longer the future, it is the power shaping our present,” emphasizing that Thailand is ready to lead the region in ensuring AI serves the public good and leaves no one behind.The Prime Minister outlined Thailand’s three key AI priorities: harnessing AI for positive impact in sectors like agriculture, healthcare, and education; addressing threats such as disinformation and deepfakes; and putting people at the center of the AI transition. She stressed that AI must support workers, not replace them, and urged investment in reskilling to protect human dignity.Thailand’s National AI Strategy, led by the National AI Committee, aims to drive social and economic transformation through AI by 2027, targeting at least 4 billion baht in value creation. A central focus is on empowering SMEs to apply AI tools that lower costs, boost productivity, and enhance global competitiveness.During the Forum, the Prime Minister also held a bilateral meeting with Ms. Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO. Both sides agreed to strengthen cooperation on AI ethics, with Thailand’s AI Governance Practice Center (AIGPC) designated as a key regional partner. AIGPC will support capacity building, certification programs, and knowledge-sharing across Asia-Pacific.Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Digital Economy and Society, Mr. Prasert Chandraruangthong, reaffirmed Thailand’s alignment with UNESCO’s ethical AI framework. Thailand has adopted the Readiness Assessment Methodology (RAM) to evaluate its AI readiness, which will inform future investments and policy development.To engage the public, Thailand is also organizing Bangkok AI Week 2025 under the theme “AI Powered Nation: Unleashing the Digital Economy for All,” featuring exhibitions, workshops, and interactive events across the city.For updates, follow Facebook: ETDA Thailand Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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In ‘My Mom Jayne,’ Mariska Hargitay Explores the Mother She Didn’t Know
At the age of 3, she, along with two of her brothers, survived the car accident that claimed the life of their mother, the iconic film star Jayne Mansfield. The children were asleep in the back seat; the three adults in the front—Mansfield, her companion at the time, and the vehicle’s driver—perished instantly. Mariska’s two injured brothers were removed from the scene. It was only later that six-year-old Zoltan realized Mariska was missing; she was trapped beneath the passenger seat, having sustained a head injury. Had Zoltan not spoken up, Mariska might not have been discovered in time. This incident is just one of the revelations in Hargitay’s moving documentary My Mom Jayne, where the 61-year-old actor gathers fragments of facts and memories to construct a clearer picture of her own identity, thereby finding peace with the mother she never truly knew. Hargitay has been aware since her twenties that the man who raised her and loved her deeply—actor and bodybuilder Mickey Hargitay—was not her biological father. Only now is she confronting the full scope of that truth. My Mom Jayne traverses Mansfield’s early life and career: she became a mother at 16, living in Texas with her young daughter and first husband until her overwhelming desire for stardom drew her to Hollywood, where she initially secured small film roles. Then, in 1955, she landed a starring role on Broadway in Will Success Spoil Rock Hunter? This opened doors to more prominent film parts, but much like the star she evidently admired, Marilyn Monroe, Mansfield earnestly sought recognition as a serious actress. With her distinctive platinum hair and exaggerated, breathy speaking voice—which her children recalled as odd and upsetting, so different from the mother they knew at home—she somewhat reluctantly accepted her status as a voluptuous sex symbol. Hargitay, who would forge her own acting career on TV’s Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, consistently felt uncomfortable with both her mother’s public persona and her life decisions. Mansfield was only 34 when she died in 1967. She and Mickey had divorced shortly after Mariska’s birth, though he and his subsequent wife, Ellen Siano, would ultimately raise Hargitay and two of her brothers after Mansfield’s death. (Hargitay’s two other half-siblings also appear in the documentary, helping to bridge some gaps her research couldn't fill.) While Hargitay emphasizes that the life her father and stepmother provided for the family was a happy one, she also explains her lifelong sense of disquiet, struggling to comprehend her mother’s motivations and feeling resentment over concealed truths. Yet, by the conclusion of My Mom Jayne—a point where we also meet Hargitay’s biological father, former Las Vegas entertainer Nelson Sardelli, in a sequence likely to bring tears—Hargitay achieves a profound catharsis. When Hargitay finally, and tenderly, tells her mother, “I see myself in you for the first time,” we, too, gain a deeper understanding of this charming, ambitious performer whose star never shone as brightly as she had hoped. She wasn't our mother. But her intricate secrets reflect the difficult realities often hidden within our own family histories. Families are composed of imperfect individuals. That is both their tragedy and their glory.
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Arson Thriller Smoke Is Not Nearly As Subversive As It Believes
Smoke starts off poorly. The Apple TV+ thriller, burdened with procedural clichés, follows an odd-couple law-enforcement team pursuing two prolific arsonists. Dave Gudsen () is an arson investigator with a distant stepson and aspirations of becoming a writer. His new partner is police detective Michelle Calderone (), an ex-Marine who is involved with a superior officer. Initial friction gives way to drunken camaraderie. Pretentious stylistic choices worsen the uninspired setup. Episodes begin with title cards displaying dictionary definitions of relevant words like transmogrification and, for some reason, fury. There are artsy shots of large, billowing fires. A melancholic song plays during the credits. In voiceover, Dave amateurishly expounds on fire's destructive power. After two excessively long episodes, a major plot twist reorients the series, eliminating some of its most egregious flaws and providing context for others. Smoke then becomes watchable. Yet, as it deviates from one set of obvious tropes, it embraces others that, while less annoying, are nearly as predictable. An emerging critique of aggrieved white male aggression primarily comes across as a superficial attempt at topical relevance. Like many disappointing Apple TV+ projects, from ’s Roar to , the series prioritizes big names over actual quality. , it was developed by one of Hollywood’s celebrated authors, (, ), who also served on the writing staff of and directed Apple’s well-received 2022 miniseries Black Bird. The cast includes , Greg Kinnear, and . Ntare Guma Mbaho Mwine, a standout in and , brings a delicate authenticity to the challenging yet crucial role of a troubled fast-food worker. However, the actors are poorly served by the script. Kinnear is miscast as the detectives’ folksy, self-satisfied boss. Leguizamo’s character is overly sleazy, and Chlumsky’s is too bland. At the forefront of the narrative, Michelle is an outdated "Strong Female Character" with an overly sentimental history of trauma. Egerton, an executive producer, plays a role so adaptable, and so clearly designed to create nine episodes worth of cliffhangers, that it barely holds together. Populated by unstable men and self-sacrificing women, and punctuated by fiery, increasingly dramatic set pieces, Smoke fails to reconcile its mood of noirish nihilism with its attempts at social commentary. Despite pretending to be subversive, Lehane has produced a typical—overly long, filled with caricatures, easy to watch but also easy to forget—streaming crime show.
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How Love Island Demonstrates the Significance of the Word “Like”
For enthusiasts of dating reality television, the advent of warmer weather signifies one thing: , undoubtedly one of Britain’s most notable cultural exports, has returned. (While spin-offs exist, including versions in Australia and the , the UK series remains the foundational model.) Its concept is straightforward: a group of appealing, sun-kissed young individuals congregates at a “villa” in a very warm location (typically Spain or South Africa) and attempts to pair up for romance—as well as financial gain and social media notoriety. At its core, the show functions as a game, with the destiny of each couple ultimately resting in the hands of the audience, who decide which pairings advance to the conclusion. Enduring an entire season demands resilience and dedication from both viewers and participants. However, should you embark on this journey, your persistence will be handsomely rewarded. Admittedly, one of the more subtle delights of the program is its frequent dullness. Yet, if you persevere and watch every episode, what unfolds is an extraordinary chronicle of how individuals strive (and often fail) to form bonds, almost in real time. These connections are supremely important because money and celebrity (and occasionally, yes, affection) are at stake, and they must also be forged within a very condensed timeframe. This implies that the couples are either absolutely certain of their feelings or entirely unsure. And because these young participants are eager, prone to drama, and above all, youthful, a word they utter constantly is “like.” None of this is particularly surprising. is a term primarily associated with youth and one that many people dismiss as superfluous—a verbal filler intended to be excised from one's speech, in adherence to an obsolete standard of proper articulation. It's truly illogical—to be preoccupied with such a minor detail when far graver global issues exist. Perhaps it's also a considerable waste of time. Nevertheless, observing closely when we hear “like” proves to be a beneficial exercise. Listen, and you will arrive at a compelling conclusion: “like” is a valuable instrument that we all possess (and should utilize) to establish and maintain rapport. “Like” is frequently employed to alleviate the communicative burden and to grant oneself a small pause to articulate what one truly intends to express. In emotionally charged scenarios where matters of the heart are concerned, “like” provides the mental space to gather one's thoughts. This is a subtle calculation, so minute that it feels imperceptible and likely occurs without conscious effort. If you view Love Island with subtitles enabled, this point becomes strikingly apparent—each “like” that peppers a casual conversation between two individuals serves to bolster tentative attempts at openness. Consider the aftermath of a dramatic recoupling, where certain established duos are separated and paired with new partners. Once the tears subside, the newly formed couples confront the challenging task of familiarizing themselves with one another. These conversations progress intermittently, and the interval between thoughts is typically bridged by “like.” It's a word that literally affords you time—just a second or two—in a manner far more agreeable than the alternative: silence. “Like” conveys care in a way that quietude never could. You are allowing yourself a moment to collect your thoughts while simultaneously signaling this to the other person, all without articulating much at all. You are also extending the same courtesy to them. There is a gendered rationale behind our aversion to this word. The common saying about “like” is that it is the that we initially utter it, which carries negative connotations because these individuals are often stereotyped as “unintelligent teenage girls.” However, this is an antiquated viewpoint. Adolescent girls and women are and have spoken more than most people for generations. Millennials who were old enough to see in cinemas are now gracefully entering middle age. They have ascended the professional ranks sufficiently to achieve positions of influence. They grew up casually using “like,” so one presumes it is an integral part of their vocabulary, both domestically and professionally. If your manager states, “Could you send me that item I requested, like, sometime next week?” and nothing seems amiss, that observation is noteworthy. “Like” is not improper or unprofessional; it is simply a linguistic habit that differs slightly from past norms. What critics of “like” are genuinely troubled by, at some level, is women, and specifically, the notion that their natural mode of expression is inferior and should be treated as such. We understand that this is incorrect. Yet, women’s speech has traditionally been characterized as weak and men’s as strong, as linguistics professor Robin Lakoff elucidates in Language and Women’s Place. The implication here is that women’s speech is categorized as weak, and men’s, the direct opposite. But if we begin to perceive the word as an asset rather than a disadvantage, its true potential starts to emerge. When we revisit the romantically entangled individuals in Love Island’s villa, it becomes evident that both men and women engage in empathetic communication regarding their emotions, not only with members of the opposite sex but also with each other. And while Love Island is ostensibly a program about romance, it truly explores all forms of connection—love, certainly, but what they ultimately achieve is friendship. And “like” enables them to forge the bonds that lead to it, one conversation at a time. It’s a valuable insight we could all adopt, in both significant and minor ways—that the adaptability of the English language is inherently linked to how we connect. Indeed, if we all cease to fear “like,” we might be astonished by the outcomes.
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Sorry, Baby Artfully Handles Trauma’s Journey with Humor
Films, at their finest, can subtly convey emotions we've experienced but struggle to express. Moreover, when dealing with feelings, precise articulation can be overvalued; a purpose of art is to delve into the ineffable, and occasionally, it's comforting to allow a film to undertake some of our emotional processing. This is the role that Eva Victor, in her debut as writer, director, and star, seeks to achieve with her film Sorry, Baby. Victor portrays Agnes, a scholar in her late twenties who has remained in the quiet college town where she completed her postgraduate studies. This decision appears to have been advantageous: she secured a full-time teaching position at her former university, emulating the path of Preston Decker (Louis Cancelmi), the charismatic instructor who guided her thesis. Soon after Agnes begins her new role, her closest friend Lydie (), a former schoolmate, visits from New York. Lydie brings significant news: recently wed, she has just discovered she is pregnant. Agnes is pleased for her, yet also feels deserted. Lydie is progressing, redefining her post-graduate life in a manner Agnes finds herself unable to. The reason for this becomes clear: Agnes was sexually assaulted during her final year of graduate school. Sorry, Baby shifts between past and present, detailing the occurrences preceding the assault and its repercussions, as Agnes grapples with the complexities of sexual trauma, including the mix of anger, guilt, and self-blame that victims frequently experience. While the incident itself is not depicted, Agnes's account of it is fraught with distress, not merely due to the physical and emotional suffering it inflicted, but because she had liked and placed trust in the assailant—she even momentarily considered a sexual attraction, before realizing at a crucial point that she felt none. Victor, both in her portrayal and the film's construction, courageously examines these conflicting emotions. There's an unstated expectation for all victims of sexual assault to react in a specific manner: presumably with unreserved rage or a desire for vengeance. Victor, however, ventures into more nuanced ground. Agnes opts not to press charges against her attacker, stating, “I want him to stop being someone who does that. And if he went to jail, he’d just be a person who does that who’s also in jail.” Agnes seeks not retribution; rather, she wishes the situation had unfolded differently, to not have been let down by someone she had faith in. One might argue that Agnes's choice not to pursue legal action puts other women at risk, but this is not the central theme of Sorry, Baby. Given her treatment, especially by two supposedly feminist campus representatives whose role is ostensibly to assist her, her decision becomes comprehensible. This film is a type of comedy addressing personal trauma, a fine balance that Victor largely manages to achieve. Unexpected moments of humor emerge: What course of action is there when your cat presents you with a nearly deceased mouse? There's no ideal remedy for this predicament, though Agnes tries her utmost. Victor and the supporting cast adeptly handle the film's shifts in tone. Ackie—who was excellent in the 2022 title role of —portrays Lydie as the sort of friend who can discern your innermost secrets, regardless of how meticulously you try to conceal them; she attends with both her hearing and vision. And while Victor occasionally renders Agnes's awkwardness a tad too deliberately charming, the actor subtly shines in moments with her timid neighbor, Gavin (), who visits at agreed-upon intervals for casual encounters. Victor illustrates how Agnes hesitates just before allowing herself to desire too much from any single individual. There is no simple method to “recover from” or “move past” her experience—yet we observe her gradually, step by step, relearning how to navigate the world. She stands to gain nothing by withdrawing from it.
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Thailand Reverses Course on Weed Legalization with Drug Policy Shift
Thailand broke with Asian norms in 2022. While other countries in the area have historically severely punished drug use, sometimes even with the death penalty, Thailand became the first on the continent to legalize cannabis. Since then, the production and sale of marijuana have grown into a significant national industry, with around 6,000 dispensaries sourcing from farms across the country. The industry, which also attracted tourists seeking access to the substance, was projected in 2022 to reach $1.2 billion by 2025. However, the Thai government is now moving to limit access to cannabis. Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsutin signed an order on Monday, effective this week, reclassifying cannabis buds as a controlled substance and prohibiting shops from selling cannabis to customers without a prescription. The policy is available on the government website. Somsak also intends to reclassify cannabis as a Category 5 narcotic, effectively recriminalizing its recreational use. The government states that this move aims to protect children and youth, who are more at risk due to increased access. However, critics and activists argue that political conflicts have significantly influenced the tightening of marijuana policies, negatively impacting small businesses. What does the new order say? The new order requires licenses for those who wish to study, export, sell, or process cannabis buds for commercial purposes. They must report data on the source, use, and amount of cannabis they possess. The cannabis buds should come from a producer meeting the Department for Development of Thai Traditional and Alternative Medicine’s Good Agricultural and Collection Practices (GACP) standards. Cannabis can no longer be sold through vending machines, electronic channels, or computer networks. It and its derivative products are prohibited in religious sites, dormitories, public parks, zoos, and amusement parks. Advertising is also banned. The sale of cannabis for smoking in cannabis businesses is also prohibited unless sold by medical practitioners, including Thai and Chinese medicine practitioners and dentists, for patient treatment. Prescriptions from medical professionals are required and must specify the amount of the drug, not exceeding a 30-day supply. Violators may face up to a year in prison and a 20,000-baht fine. How is politics involved? Decriminalization in 2022 was championed by Anutin Charnvirakul, who ran for Prime Minister in 2023 as the head of the Bhumjaithai Party but was unsuccessful. However, Bhumjaithai joined the governing coalition of Pheu Thai, the populist party that ultimately gained power but had campaigned on recriminalizing marijuana. Since cannabis was removed from the list of illegal narcotics, no comprehensive law regulating its use was enacted. This allowed for rapid growth, but authorities claim it also facilitated marijuana smuggling to countries as far as the U.S. and Europe. Following disputes over a Cabinet seat, the Bhumjaithai Party left the coalition earlier this month, raising doubts about Pheu Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s stability. With Paetongtarn currently remaining in power, Bhumjaithai's departure has allowed Pheu Thai to pursue its pledge to limit marijuana use to medical purposes. The Thai public has mixed feelings, with a 2024 poll showing a narrow majority supporting recriminalization. How has the industry reacted? Speaking to the Bangkok Post, small- and medium-sized cannabis growers said the stricter regulations will force some farms to close. A producer named Somkiat Nitiketkosol told the paper that such stringent requirements would also encourage corruption: “Most permits are going to big players, while small farmers like me are left waiting or falling victim to scams.” Chokwan Chopaka, a Thai cannabis activist who leads Writing Thailand’s Cannabis Future Network, plans to protest the order. Chokwan argues that businesses will not disappear overnight following the new rules, which will only push sales of the drug underground. “Thailand had always been known for sabai sabai [easygoing, lax] culture where many illegal products from sex toys, prescription drugs, vape pens, illegal money exchange, and sex workers are readily available on the side of the road to service all types of tourist, together with well organised groups, to supply and manage those products locally (massage parlour, gogobars, illegal gambling house etc.),” she tells TIME. “With the new announcement, cannabis will be just but another thing that will go back to being managed by the corrupt underground system.”
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Passionpreneur Publishing Launches “Future-Proof Your Workforce” Globally
Dua Al Toobi's inspirational book is now globally accessible through major book distributors.Dubai, United Arab Emirates Jun 26, 2025 - Passionpreneur Publishing has announced the global distribution of Future-Proof Your Workforce by Dua Al Toobi via the publishing industry's leading networks. The book is expected to deeply inspire its intended readership. In this essential book, Dua Al Toobi provides valuable insights and methods for addressing the gap between national employment objectives and the need for digital skills in the GCC region. As AI, automation, and digital advances reshape economies, leaders in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) face a crucial challenge: aligning national employment targets with the pressing demand for a workforce equipped for the future. Future-Proof Your Workforce provides a practical, strategic guide for policymakers, business leaders, and workforce planners navigating this critical transformation. Drawing from Dua Al Toobi's extensive cross-sector experience in strategy, digital transformation, and human capital development, the book offers actionable insights grounded in the realities of the GCC. Many national employment initiatives struggle due to a disconnect between policy goals and practical implementation. This book bridges that gap by offering frameworks that prioritize both people and return on investment, enabling leaders to create scalable, measurable, and sustainable workforce strategies. Whether you're involved in shaping national workforce policy, leading transformation within a government organization, or managing talent in a large company, this book will assist you in: Harmonizing national employment goals with digital transformation priorities Developing adaptable, future-ready talent ecosystems Creating strategic training programs with lasting impact Involving stakeholders across government departments, industries, and sectors Using human-centered design in change management and workforce planning Utilizing data, partnerships, and governance for sustainable execution. Grounded in systems thinking and designed for real-world complexity, Future-Proof Your Workforce delivers practical tools and frameworks adapted to the GCC's political, cultural, and economic landscape, while also being applicable to any country or organization preparing its workforce for the future. In an age where disruption is common and human capital is a key competitive advantage, this book is both a call to action and a clear roadmap for leaders ready to realize their vision for a future-ready workforce. The book is now available worldwide through IngramSpark and other affiliates, offering print-on-demand services in the UK, Europe, USA, Australia, New Zealand, and the Middle East. The e-book can be purchased from over 25 online bookstores, including Amazon, Kindle, Barnes & Nobles, and Apple Books in the Middle East. -- Ends - About The Author: Dua Al Toobi is a respected authority in digital transformation and human capital strategy, known for her expertise in leading complex transformations that effectively integrate people, policy, and technology. Her background includes M&A, organizational turnaround, and holding dual executive roles in HR and digital transformation, providing her with a distinct combination of strategic insight and practical execution skills. She is among the first GCC nationals to have earned an Executive Masters in Digital Transformation and is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Business Administration focusing on AI and workforce readiness. Her book is aimed to empower leaders to build agile, inclusive, and future-ready organizations. Follow Dua's journey at About Passionpreneur Publishing: Passionpreneur Publishing is an independent publisher that helps entrepreneurs and professional experts become International Authors in a short timeframe. The company specializes in transformational books—including those focused on business, self-help, personal growth, and spirituality—to help authors share their messages and establish credibility in their respective fields. Passionpreneur Publishing has a board of advisors from around the world with expertise in books, publishing, and media, ensuring global best practices are applied in every service offered and providing access to a worldwide network of thought leaders.Media ContactPassionpreneur Publishing Source :Passionpreneur Publishing
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BrandifyIT Releases AI Publisher, a WordPress AI Content Generator Ensuring 80+ SEO Benchmark Scores
AI Publisher integrates AI-powered writing, image generation, SEO keyword and LLM optimization, along with automated LinkedIn, Facebook, and X captions directly within WordPress. It facilitates one-click publishing of optimized posts and social shares, consistently achieving SEO Benchmark scores of 80+ and preventing content duplication.New York City, New York – June 26, 2025 – BrandifyIT AI announced today the launch of AI Publisher for WordPress (), an AI content writing plugin designed to create, optimize, generate images, perform quality checks, and even produce social media posts for each article directly within WordPress. Every piece of content generated by the plugin is guaranteed to meet or exceed an 80+ SEO Benchmark score prior to publication. What makes AI Publisher different The Zero-overlap topic engine thoroughly scans existing site content to prevent new posts from duplicating topics. A **Multi-step QA "guardian sprint"** ensures every draft undergoes automated editorial, tone, SEO/LLM, and error-correction checks prior to publication. Integrated social promotion allows for the generation of platform-specific captions for LinkedIn, Facebook, and X simultaneously with the article, enabling one-click sharing. Featured image creation & compression, powered by DALL·E, ensures visually appealing and fast-loading pages. Transparent cost model: A standard post, encompassing both text and images, consumes approximately US $0.08 in OpenAI credits, utilizing the user's own API key. Smart scheduling enables users to queue up to 24 posts daily (70 weekly) in fully automatic mode, with the option to switch to manual review at any point. "Our objective is straightforward: to provide marketers and creators with a seamless, one-click process from initial idea to a polished, personalized, SEO and LLM-optimized post, all while preserving brand voice and SEO integrity," stated Adem Kuric, co-founder of BrandifyIT AI. Live Examples & SEO Scores Explore the gallery to view actual WordPress posts entirely generated by the plugin. These samples demonstrate how AI Publisher consistently achieves 80+ SEO Benchmark performance, ensuring sharp visuals and on-brand copy, allowing users to assess real-world quality prior to installation. Content Strategy Builder Users can define core brand elements such as tone, audience, messaging pillars, and target personas just once. AI Publisher's Content Strategy Builder then applies these established guidelines to every draft, ensuring each post is unique, personalized, and perfectly aligned with specific marketing objectives. Pricing & Trial Begin risk-free at : a free version, limited to one post per week, is available, or users can unlock the full plugin functionality with a 7-day free trial. The Personal plan is priced at $49.99 /month or $479.99 /year (a 20% discount), backed by a 7-day money-back guarantee. Roadmap Highlights Multilingual content generation is designated as a top-priority on the roadmap, with comprehensive language expansion actively under development. Future releases are set to extend the one-click workflow to new markets, ensuring AI Publisher's family-safe safeguards are maintained. AI Publisher for WordPress is now available. Activate your seven-day free trial at and discover how a single click generates an 80+ SEO Benchmark post, complete with draft, image, quality assurance, and social captions, all within the WordPress dashboard. About BrandifyIT AI Established in 2024, BrandifyIT AI develops tools that integrate advanced AI, SEO, and LLM insights, aiming to streamline the publishing process and enable brands to prioritize innovative ideas and authentic storytelling at scale.Media ContactBrandify It Source :Brandify It
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Tahlka India Solidifies Its Position as a Reliable Source for News and Political Analysis in Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand Breaking NewsDehradun, Uttarakhand Jun 26, 2025 - Tahlka India is solidifying its position as a dependable digital news source, delivering impactful journalism in an era where accurate and timely reporting is paramount. The platform focuses on Uttarakhand News, Dehradun News, and Uttarakhand Politics News, earning the trust of readers throughout the region by providing well-researched, factual, and engaging content in Hindi. Since its founding, Tahlka India has dedicated itself to providing citizens with the information necessary for informed decision-making. Its commitment to regional journalism, particularly in Uttarakhand, is evident in its extensive coverage of local issues, cultural narratives, community happenings, and political developments. Expanding Regional Footprint in Uttarakhand Tahlka India's editorial strength stems from its in-depth regional reporting. The platform has broadened its network across Uttarakhand's districts, with a strong emphasis on Dehradun News. With reporters on the ground and digital content creators, the news outlet guarantees continuous updates on city progress, civic matters, government policies, and cultural milestones. As the state's capital, Dehradun is a primary focus of coverage. Tahlka India delivers detailed stories on infrastructure development, education, the environment, healthcare, and public concerns, establishing itself as a leading source for reliable information. Unfiltered Coverage of Uttarakhand Politics Tahlka India's journalism is distinguished by its impartial and comprehensive coverage of Uttarakhand Politics News. Amidst the state's evolving political landscape, the publication presents readers with unbiased insights, real-time updates, and expert analysis of governmental decisions, electoral tactics, and public policy discussions. Leading up to elections or during legislative sessions, Tahlka India intensifies its coverage to offer real-time reporting, including interviews with political figures, community feedback, press briefings, and policy announcements. The aim is to keep the public well-informed about Uttarakhand's shifting political dynamics. A Voice for the People of Uttarakhand Tahlka India transcends mere reporting, becoming a voice for the community. By emphasizing local issues such as employment, educational improvements, environmental protection, and disaster response, the platform ensures that citizen concerns are voiced and addressed. Consistent interaction with readers through online comments, social media engagement, and public forums introduces a participatory aspect to the platform. This robust community connection has solidified Tahlka India's reputation as a people-centric media outlet delivering authentic Uttarakhand News. Innovation in Digital News Delivery In a constantly changing media environment, Tahlka India is dedicated to innovating its content delivery methods. The platform's mobile-friendly design, quick page loading, and immediate push notifications ensure that readers stay informed while on the move. In addition to articles, Tahlka India offers video updates, live reporting, and interactive polls to enhance reader involvement. Their presence on social media platforms like Facebook, YouTube, and Instagram facilitates wider distribution of Dehradun News and Uttarakhand Politics News. These initiatives have enabled the platform to connect with a diverse audience, including younger individuals and professionals who depend on mobile news consumption. Upholding Editorial Integrity and Responsibility In response to the increase in misinformation, Tahlka India prioritizes journalistic ethics and rigorous fact-checking. Every piece of content is thoroughly verified and edited to uphold transparency and trustworthiness. The editorial board adheres to strict guidelines to guarantee impartiality, objectivity, and responsible reporting. Through collaborations with local organizations, NGOs, and specialists, the platform promotes community journalism that highlights underreported stories. This dedication to editorial integrity positions Tahlka India as a reliable news source and a trusted community advocate. Future Vision Deepening Regional Coverage and Public Engagement Looking forward, Tahlka India plans to expand its presence in Uttarakhand's rural regions. By introducing specialized sections for youth, education, women's issues, and grassroots movements, the platform aims to establish itself as a comprehensive resource for Uttarakhand Politics News and broader regional awareness. The media organization also intends to host webinars, public discussions, and live Q&A sessions with policymakers and community leaders to foster civic engagement and media literacy. About Tahlka India Tahlka India is a Hindi-language digital news platform committed to providing timely, diverse, and reliable reporting on national, regional, and cultural topics. With a strong focus on Uttarakhand News, Dehradun News, and , the platform has evolved into one of the most respected regional media outlets in Northern India.Media ContactTahlka India Dehradun, Uttarakhand Source :Tahlka India ```
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New Book Provides Business Owners Strategies for Profitability and Work-Life Balance
The Profit Optimization Program (POP) presents 12 tried-and-true steps to assist entrepreneurs in developing stronger, smarter, and more profitable businesses without experiencing burnout.New York City, New York Jun 26, 2025 – Many business owners are feeling drained, overworked, and undercompensated. Addressing this widespread issue, business strategist and author Joseph Abreu has launched his new book, Profit Optimization Program (POP): 12 Proven Steps to Grow Profits and Run a Business That Doesn't Run You. This book serves as an accessible and empowering guide for entrepreneurs who are prepared to take charge of their business's finances, systems, and mindset. Based on Abreu's well-regarded coaching framework, the Profit Optimization Program (POP) simplifies the complexities of building a profitable business into 12 straightforward, actionable steps. With a focus on clarity, accountability, and sustainable growth, the book enables readers to understand their financial statements, optimize their operations, and regain control of their time, allowing them to move beyond mere survival and begin to thrive. "The challenges faced by most business owners stem not from a lack of ambition, but from the absence of a clear plan," Abreu explains. "POP provides that plan, along with the necessary tools to translate insights into tangible, real-world outcomes." Each chapter, from understanding your Profit & Loss statement to identifying hidden expenses and creating systems that promote freedom, includes practical examples and exercises designed to guide business owners from disarray to clarity. The book is currently available for pre-order on and in both physical and digital formats.Media ContactGLOVISOR Source :GLOVISOR
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“Wyatt Matters” Podcast Offers a Unique Brand of Comedy
Phoenix, Arizona Jun 26, 2025 - Searching for a fresh podcast? Discover Wyatt Matters, a faith-based comedy show generating buzz. With viral clips and candid discussions, this weekly podcast is quickly gaining popularity. Hosted by Steve Wyatt, along with pastors, counselors, and insightful commentators, Wyatt Matters tackles current events and cultural trends using humor and biblical principles. Wyatt Matters airs every Sunday on 19 AM radio stations nationwide and is available on all major podcast platforms. "Everyone is talking about what is important. We want to explore why it is important," says Steve Wyatt. "If we can make people laugh, we might get them to listen and maybe even think." Podcast Highlights: * Weekly dose of sharp, relatable humor * Timely perspectives on news, pop culture, and unusual stories * Popular clips shared on TikTok, YouTube & Instagram * Authentic stories appealing to Gen Z and Millennial listeners Company Social Media: [https://www.youtube.com/@WyattMattersShow](https://www.youtube.com/@WyattMattersShow) [https://www.tiktok.com/@wyattmattersshow](https://www.tiktok.com/@wyattmattersshow) [https://www.facebook.com/WyattMattersShow](https://www.facebook.com/WyattMattersShow) [https://www.instagram.com/wyattmattersshow/](https://www.instagram.com/wyattmattersshow/) [https://x.com/WyattMatters_](https://x.com/WyattMatters_) Company Address: Wyatt Matters 6910 E Chauncey Lane, Suite 130 Phoenix, AZ 85054 For interviews, features, or partnership opportunities, please use the contact page on the Wyatt Matters website. About Wyatt Matters Wyatt Matters, hosted by Steve Wyatt, is a comedy podcast that blends faith and humor. Airing weekly on podcast platforms and 19 AM radio stations, the show delivers laughs and provokes thought. Because it's not just what matters. It's Wyatt Matters.Media ContactWyatt Matters623-232-24966910 E Chauncey Lane, Suite 130 Source :Wyatt Matters
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CEVA Joins Windrose To Test Long-Haul EV Trucking in China
Antwerp, Belgium, June 28, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - CEVA Logistics in Greater China is coming together with Windrose, leading heavy-duty electric truck provider, to conduct a feasibility study for the deployment of long-haul electric vehicle (EV) trucking in China. This collaboration marks a significant step forward in CEVA's commitment to sustainability and its pioneering efforts to lead the sustainable development of the logistics industry.Under this partnership, CEVA and Windrose have successfully conducted trials of long-haul electric trucking, including a round-trip journey from Greater Bay Area in Guangdong to Pingxiang, Guangxi, at the China-Vietnam border, and a 5,000-kilometer journey from Shenzhen to Alashankou, at the China-Kazakhstan border.These pilot runs resulted in a remarkable carbon emissions reduction of approximately 55% on average (WTW) per GLEC framework. Based on these successes, CEVA and Windrose will continue to conduct trial runs within China to further explore the feasibility, cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency of using EVs across various routes and operational scenarios. As part of its strategic plan, CEVA aspires to connect Southeast Asia, Central Asia and even Europe through a TIR network.Aligned with the CMA CGM Group's target of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050, CEVA is committed to expanding its fleet of low-carbon vehicles. CEVA aims to reach 1,450 low-carbon vehicles in its ground operations by 2025 and over 650 battery-electric trucks in service globally. In this regard, CEVA will continue to innovate and invest in sustainable logistics solutions, further solidifying its position as a leader in sustainable logistics."CEVA is committed to leading the way in sustainable ground transport," said Antonio Pacciolla, vice president of Ground & Rail, APAC and IMECA. "We embrace innovative technologies to enhance our logistics solutions, delivering low carbon transport services to our clients while reducing our carbon footprint. That's how we imagine better ways to serve a world in motion.""We are excited to collaborate with CEVA, a leader in the logistics industry known for its innovative and forward-thinking approach," said Wen Han, Founder, Chairman and CEO of Windrose. "Both parties are committed to sustainability and innovation. This partnership will enable us to better serve the markets and shippers with low carbon transport, while setting new benchmarks for sustainable logistics."About CEVA LogisticsCEVA Logistics, a world leader in third-party logistics, provides global supply chain solutions to connect people, products and providers all around the world. Headquartered in Marseille, France, CEVA Logistics offers a broad range of end-to-end, customized solutions in contract logistics and air, ocean, ground and finished vehicle transport in 170 countries worldwide thanks to its approximately 110,000 employees at more than 1,500 facilities. With 2024 revenue of US$18.3 billion, CEVA Logistics is part of the CMA CGM Group, a global player in sea, land, air and logistics solutions.For more information, please visit www.cevalogistics.com or contact: media@cevalogistics.com.About Windrose TechnologyWindrose is a leading provider of electric heavy-duty trucks, committed to delivering zero-emissions and cost-effective solutions for the logistics industry. The company is the first domestic player to provide an independently developed solution of zero-emissions intelligent heavy-duty truck from the ground up, aiming at the global markets in four continents including US, Europe, Asia, Oceania and so forth. Windrose was founded by Wen HAN in 2022, who is a Stanford graduate, formerly investor at Bridgewater Associates, GSR Ventures, as well as previously Chief Strategy and Financial Officer at Plus.For more information, please visit www.windrose.tech / or contact: global@windrose.techSOURCE: Windrose Technology Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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IBI Announces 23-Fold Surge in Net Profit for FY2025
HONG KONG, Jun 26, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - IBI Group Holdings Limited (“IBI” or the “Company”, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”; Stock Code: 1547), a company focused on investments in the built environment, today announced its audited consolidated results for the year ended 31 March 2025 (“FY2025” or the “year under review”).FY2025 was marked by a challenging global economic environment, which placed significant pressure on the construction industry and resulted in highly competitive tendering conditions. At the same time, global trade tensions triggered unexpected volatility, prompting capital flows to shift towards Asia. This trend has begun to invigorate the Hong Kong market and may help to alleviate some of the pressure on Mainland China's manufacturing sector. Coupled with a strong rebound in inbound tourism and improving market sentiment, these developments have contributed to a more optimistic local outlook. The Group remains confident in Hong Kong’s economic prospects and, with its rigorous risk management, effective cost control, and strategic focus on emerging opportunities, is well positioned to navigate the evolving landscape and drive sustainable growth.During the year under review, the Group demonstrated remarkable resilience and delivered a solid financial performance. Profit attributable to the owners of the Company surged around 23.0 times to approximately HK$8.4 million (FY2024: approximately HK$0.4 million). This increase was mainly attributable to improvement in the Building Solutions segment, the recognition of the unrealised profit generated from financial assets at fair value, and the recognition of a significant fair value loss on investment property in the previous year. Basic and diluted earnings per share was HK1.0 cent (FY2024: HK0.0 cents). The Board has recommended the payment of a final dividend of HK0.5 cents for FY2025 (FY2024: HK0.5 cents).Mr. Neil Howard, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of IBI, said, “Despite the challenging global economic environment, the Group delivered a strong performance in FY2025, with profitability rising significantly. Furthermore, towards the end of the period, the Group successfully secured four large projects with a total value exceeding the entire turnover for FY2025. This notable result highlights the effectiveness of our strategic focus, the depth of our resilience, and our ability to adapt quickly to change. Looking ahead, we will continue to strengthen our business development, respond swiftly to market dynamics, and pursue continuous improvement to drive long-term value creation and deliver sustainable returns to our shareholders.”Business Review1.ContractingIBI provides world-class interior fitting-out and building refurbishment services in Hong Kong and Macau, predominantly acting as the main contractor for clients across many industry sectors. The construction industry remained under pressure for most of the year. Although the Group completed a higher number of projects compared to the previous period, many were smaller in scale, resulting in a decline in turnover. However, through strict cost control and proactive final accounting by the commercial team, the segment delivered a solid set of results despite the challenging environment. During the year under review, the Group recorded profit from contracting of approximately HK$7.4 million (FY2024: approximately HK$15.2 million), completed 12 projects, and was awarded 13 projects.Notably, during the latter part of the period, the Group secured four large projects with a total value exceeding the entire turnover for FY2025. In May 2025, IBI entered into a memorandum of understanding regarding a potential investment in the development of a new central business district covering around 318 hectares in Manila, the Philippines. Leveraging its expertise in construction and project management, the Group will serve as project advisor, overseeing the project and providing professional advice on construction, procurement, and progress. This collaboration supports the Group’s long-term strategy and, if realised, could diversify its income streams and support long-term growth. These projects will lay a strong foundation for FY2026.In Macau, IBI secured its first project since resuming operations. The Group is actively rebuilding relationships with previous clients and aggressively tendering for new projects.2.Building SolutionsThe Group’s subsidiary, Building Solutions Limited (“BSL”), which provides products and services that enhance the performance and well-being of the built environment in order to provide modern, healthy and high-performing spaces for occupants, recorded a significant and continued improvement in its performance. During the year under review, BSL recorded a segment profit of approximately HK$0.6 million (FY2024: segment loss approximately HK$0.3 million), with sales revenue increasing by 58.2% year on year. BSL achieved profitability during FY2025, marking a significant milestone for the start-up. With continued research and identification of new products, the Group believes that the division’s reputation for delivering high-quality building products and services will achieve further growth.3.Strategic InvestmentsThe Group’s strategic investment division was established to efficiently allocate capital into new market sectors and expand its presence in the built environment. During the year under review, the strategic investments division of the Group recorded a segment profit of approximately HK$0.9 million (FY2024: segment loss approximately HK$3.2 million), which was realised from an unrealised fair value gain on its investment in a large real estate investment trust, a Hong Kong-listed company that owns and manages a diversified and high-quality portfolio. Regarding the assets in Japan, specifically the plots of land in Kutchan, Hokkaido, the Group is continuing to analyse the optimum strategy for the site, and is considering expanding the project, as the analysis indicates that a larger-scale development could provide significant economies of scale and a far greater return on investment. Moving forward, the Group will continue to explore potential investment opportunities and looks forward to announcing further successes in this area.4.Property InvestmentsThe Group’s property investment subsidiary focuses on purchasing physical real estate to generate additional income and expand the Group’s geographical presence. The property investment division of the Group recorded a segment profit of approximately HK$2.5 million for FY2025 (FY2024: segment loss approximately HK$8.1 million), maintaining a steady performance and a 100% occupancy rate. During the year under review, the Group engaged a planning architect to survey the West Wing rooftop area and prepare an initial design for additional commercial space. The Group then held a pre-planning meeting with the local government planning office, which gave positive feedback and indicated that it would not object to the construction of an additional floor. This addition would create 2,500sq ft of tenantable space, which is expected to have a positive impact on the property’s valuation.About IBI Group Holdings Limited (stock code: 1547)IBI Group Holdings Limited is a publicly listed holding company on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, focused on investments in the Built Environment. The Group’s investments whilst principally centering around the role of contracting, include businesses providing innovative, high quality manufacturing and supply solutions across a diverse range of the built environment. Our mission is to deliver premium products, services and customer experiences with a strong influence of innovation, sustainability and wellness. For more information, please refer to IBI’s website: https://ibighl.com/. Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Wasion Wins Three Major Smart Power Meter Contracts In Emerging Overseas Markets, Total Contract Value Exceeds HK$940 million
HONG KONG, Jun 26, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - Wasion Holdings Limited (the “Company”, “Wasion” or the “Group”; stock code: 3393.HK), China’s leading provider of energy measurement equipment and energy-saving solutions, is pleased to announce that its wholly-owned subsidiary, WASION, S. DE R.L. DE C.V. (‘‘Wasion Mexico’’), secured a smart meter tender contract from the Federal Electricity Commission of Mexico (“CFE”) on 26 June 2025, with a contract value of over MXN627.39 million (equivalent to over RMB238.41 million or HK$263.50 million). In addition, Wasion Mexico had entered into a smart meter supply agreement with CFE earlier on 25 March 2025, valued at over MXN1,452.93 million (equivalent to over RMB552.11 million or HK$610.23 million).CFE, a state-owned entity established by the Mexican government, is the dominant player in the electric power industry in Mexico and serves approximately 50 million customers. As of 2025, the Group has successfully won cumulative smart meter contracts from CFE exceeding MXN2,080.32 million (equivalent to over RMB790.52 million or HK$873.73 million). This achievement demonstrates Wasion Mexico’s leading brand position in the local market.Additionally, Wasion Group (Tanzania) Limited, a Tanzania-based subsidiary of the Company, also won a tender contract for smart meters from Tanzania Electric Supply Company Limited (“Tanesco”) on 10 June 2025, with a contract sum of approximately RMB61 million (approximately HK$66.65 million). Tanesco is the only state-owned power company in Tanzania serving approximately 15 million users. The Group’s successful acquisition of three major smart power meter contracts in key emerging markets has significantly strengthened its brand internationalization and demonstrated the high level of trust and recognition its products enjoy among overseas customers.Mr. Ji Wei, Chairman of the Group, said: “CFE has a vast power generation capacity and owns the entire transmission and distribution system in Mexico. It is also the sole operator of the national power grid, providing integrated generation, transmission, and distribution services. We are honored that Wasion Mexico has been recognized as both a trusted supplier to CFE and a leading brand in Mexico's power meter industry. Meanwhile, Tanzania will continue to serve as the Group’s business hub in East Africa, from which the Group plans to further expand its presence into Uganda, Kenya, Mozambique, and other neighboring countries. Looking ahead, the Group aims to maintain steady orders for power meters in Africa while actively developing new projects, including energy storage. These successful bids reflect the Group's rapid overseas growth and continued strong performance in emerging markets such as Latin America, Africa, and Central Asia. With production and R&D centers in Mexico and Tanzania, the Group is committed to expanding market share in key overseasmarkets, enhancing local competitiveness to radiate influence surrounding regions, deeply addressing existing customer needs, improving product quality and service standards, and proactively pursuing new international opportunities.”About Wasion Holdings LimitedWasion Holdings is the leading provider of energy measurement equipment and energy-saving solutions in the PRC. Its products and services include Power Advanced Metering Infrastructure (Power AMI), Communication and Fluid Advanced Metering Infrastructure (Communication and Fluid AMI), Advanced Distribution Operations (ADO), Smart Distribution Solutions (SDS), Smart Distribution Devices (SDD), and Energy Efficiency Solutions (EES). The Group’s current clients include power grid companies, water, gas and heat providers, and other major industrial and commercial users. Its products have major market share in the PRC and are exported worldwide to Asia, Africa, Europe and the United States. Its research center and laboratory have been certified as national grade and meet international standards. Wasion’s R&D capabilities in smart metering and energy-saving solutions are renowned within the industry.For more information, please visit:http://ir.wasion.com/tc/index.php Copyright 2025 ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Paano Lumalawak ang UPCX sa Pandaigdigang Merkado sa Pamamagitan ng Inobasyon at Pagsunod sa Regulasyon
Sa gitna ng pagbabagong dala ng blockchain sa pandaigdigang sistemang pinansyal, lumilitaw ang UPCX bilang isang pangunahing puwersa sa industriyang Web3 payment. Sa pamamagitan ng mahusay, ligtas, at bukas na teknikal na pundasyon, naiiba ang UPCX hindi lamang dahil sa inobasyon sa teknolohiya, kundi pati na rin sa praktikal na estratehiya ng pandaigdigang pagpapalawak na nakabatay sa pagsunod sa regulasyon, pagtatayo ng ekosistema, at lokal na pag-aangkop. Tinutuklas sa artikulong ito kung paano nagsimula ang UPCX sa Japan at unti-unting lumalawak sa Asia-Pacific, Europa, at iba pa, habang ginagabayan ang sarili sa mga komplikadong internasyonal na kapaligiran upang makamit ang tagumpay. Pangunahing Kalamangan ng UPCX Ang pandaigdigang ambisyon ng UPCX ay sinusuportahan ng matibay nitong teknikal na kakayahan. Ginagamit ng plataporma ang hybrid consensus mechanism na pinagsasama ang Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS) at Byzantine Fault Tolerance (BFT), na kayang magproseso ng 100,000 transaksyon bawat segundo (TPS) at halos instant na block confirmation. Ang ganitong performance ay maihahambing sa mga higanteng gaya ng Visa at Mastercard, na ginagawa itong angkop para sa e-commerce, retail, at cross-border payments na nangangailangan ng mabilis at maaasahang serbisyo. Bukod pa rito, sinusuportahan ng UPCX ang iba’t ibang uri ng digital assets tulad ng user-issued assets (UIA), stablecoins na naka-peg sa fiat currencies, at non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Sa ganitong lawak ng suporta sa asset, madaling mapapamahalaan ng mga user ang fiat, crypto, at digital collectibles sa iisang plataporma. Kasalukuyang binubuo ng UPCX ang isang “super app” na pinagsasama ang pagbabayad, reserbasyon, at pamamahala ng asset—katulad ng Alipay o WeChat—ngunit may pananatiling bukas at desentralisado ayon sa prinsipyo ng Web3. Lumalaki nang mabilis ang UPCX ecosystem. Higit sa 866,000 UPC tokens ang naka-stake, na may kabuuang locked value na $3.12 milyon at mahigit 40,000 wallet addresses. Patuloy ang paglago ng komunidad, pinapalakas ng open APIs at staking incentives para sa mga pangunahing proyekto gaya ng mainnet, wallet, at cross-chain bridge. Bakit Japan? Isang Estratehikong Pandaigdigang Panimulang Lugar Hindi aksidente ang pagpili ng UPCX na simulan ang pandaigdigang pagpapalawak nito sa Japan. Kilala ang Japan sa mahigpit nitong regulasyon sa pananalapi, na may isa sa pinakamataas na entry barrier sa buong mundo. Noong Marso 2025, matagumpay na inilunsad ang UPCX sa BitTrade, isang nangungunang palitan na lisensyado ng Financial Services Agency (FSA) ng Japan. Patunay ito ng teknikal at legal na kakayahan ng UPCX, at nagdadala ng malaking kredibilidad at reputasyon sa internasyonal. Nagsisilbing modelo ang tagumpay sa Japan para sa pagpasok sa iba pang mga reguladong merkado gaya ng Singapore, South Korea, at European Union. Ayon kay Koki Sato, Chief Marketing Officer ng UPCX, ang mga aral mula sa Japan ay nagbibigay ng blueprint para sa mga merkadong may mataas na hadlang, at nagsisilbing matibay na pundasyon para sa pandaigdigang ekspansyon. Upang lalong mapatatag ang presensya, aktibong nag-sponsor ang UPCX ng mga malalaking kaganapan gaya ng Formula E Tokyo E-Prix 2025 at World Swimming Championships. Sa pamamagitan ng ganitong visibility, napapabilis ang pagtanggap ng mga user sa Japan at rehiyong Asia-Pacific, habang pinalalakas ang tiwala at pagkilala sa brand. Timog-Silangang Asya: Isang Blue Ocean para sa Blockchain Payments Matapos ang tagumpay sa Japan, nakatuon na ngayon ang UPCX sa mga mabilis lumalagong merkado sa Timog-Silangang Asya, kabilang ang Vietnam, Thailand, at Indonesia. Ang mga bansang ito ay may mabilis na pagtaas ng paggamit ng mobile internet, batang populasyon, at kulang na tradisyunal na imprastrukturang pinansyal—perpektong kundisyon para sa blockchain-based payments at digital asset services. Sa mga merkadong ito, mabilis ang pagtaas ng paggamit ng digital payments gaya ng mobile wallets at cryptocurrencies. Ang bukas na pagtanggap sa mga makabagong kasangkapang pinansyal, na sinamahan ng dahan-dahang liberalisasyon ng regulasyon, ay nagbibigay ng mayamang oportunidad para sa UPCX. Sa pamamagitan ng high-performance, mababang gastos, at malawak na suporta sa asset, may kakayahan ang UPCX na maghatid ng makabagong karanasan sa pagbabayad, partikular sa maliliit na negosyo at karaniwang mamimili. Upang magtagumpay sa Timog-Silangang Asya, kailangang paigtingin ng UPCX ang lokal na pagsasakatuparan sa pamamagitan ng pakikipag-partner sa mga lokal na plataporma sa pagbabayad, pangunahing retailer, at internet company. Ang pag-optimize ng produkto para sa multi-language at multi-currency environments ay makatutulong sa mas malalim na penetrasyon sa merkado at katapatan ng user. Bukod sa pagkuha ng malaking bahagi ng blockchain payment market sa rehiyon, mapapatibay din nito ang estratehiya ng pandaigdigang pagpapalawak ng UPCX. Pagsunod sa Regulasyon bilang Angkla, Inobasyon bilang Pakpak Mabilis ang digitalisasyon ng pandaigdigang merkado ng pagbabayad, at inaasahang lalago pa ang mobile payments mula 2025 hanggang 2030, lalo na sa Asia-Pacific at mga umuunlad na merkado. Dahil sa kakayahang humawak ng high-frequency, low-value transactions sa mababang gastos, handang-handa ang UPCX na magbigay ng susunod na henerasyong solusyon sa pagbabayad sa mga hindi pa masyadong naaabot na rehiyon tulad ng Southeast Asia at Africa. Kasabay nito, ang pagsikat ng decentralized finance (DeFi) ay nagdadala ng mga bagong oportunidad. Ang kakayahan ng plataporma sa asset issuance at community governance ay maaaring akitin ang mga global developers at institusyon para lumahok sa DEX, NFTs, cross-chain projects, at marami pa. Sa pamamagitan ng pagpasok sa mga merkadong may hindi pa hinog na regulasyon, maaaring mabilis na makapagtatag ng user base ang UPCX at makapagbuo ng matatag na pagkilala sa brand. Ang pagsunod sa regulasyon ay nananatiling pundasyon ng estratehiya ng UPCX—ito ang nagbibigay sa kanila ng mahalagang "trust premium". Sa patuloy na pagpapahusay ng kakayahan sa regulasyon sa mga lugar gaya ng Singapore at EU, mas pinatitibay nito ang kredibilidad ng brand—isang pangunahing competitive advantage. Bukod pa rito, ang lumalawak na linya ng produkto ng plataporma, kabilang ang cross-chain bridges at POS solutions, ay makabubuo ng maraming pinagkukunan ng kita mula sa online-offline integration at cross-border payments, na magdadala ng tuluy-tuloy na paglago ng market value at user base. Mga Hamon at Estratehiya sa Pandaigdigang Pagpapalawak Sa kabila ng magandang pananaw, humaharap ang UPCX sa mga sumusunod na hamon: Komplikadong Regulasyon Ang pandaigdigang regulasyon ay pira-piraso at mahirap sundan, may kasamang mataas na gastos at mga hadlang mula sa mga awtoridad gaya ng U.S. SEC, EU MiCA, at mga regulator sa Singapore. Maaaring ipagpatuloy ng UPCX ang estratehiyang “madaling pasukin muna” sa pamamagitan ng pagpasok sa mga mature regulatory markets, dahan-dahang bumuo ng legal expertise, at makipagtulungan sa mga lokal na legal advisor upang mabawasan ang panganib. Matinding Kompetisyon Kailangang makipagsabayan ng UPCX sa mga higante gaya ng Visa at PayPal, gayundin sa mga blockchain-based payment system gaya ng Ripple at Stellar. Kinakailangan ang tuluy-tuloy na inobasyon, bukas na ekosistema, at mga tampok na gaya ng super app upang makaakit ng users at developers. Pagkakaiba sa Kultura at Rehiyon Malaki ang pagkakaiba sa kagustuhan ng mga user depende sa rehiyon. Halimbawa, binibigyang-halaga ng mga European users ang privacy, habang inuuna ng mga nasa Asia-Pacific ang bilis at kaginhawaan. Sa pamamagitan ng malalim na pananaliksik sa merkado at pakikipagtulungan sa mga lokal na partner, maaaring iakma ng UPCX ang produkto nito sa mga lokal na pangangailangan. Konklusyon Dahan-dahang pinalalawak ng UPCX ang presensya nito sa Web3 payment space sa pamamagitan ng pagsunod sa regulasyon at paglipad gamit ang pakpak ng inobasyon. Ang tagumpay sa Japan ay nagbibigay ng matibay na batayan para sa pandaigdigang pag-unlad. Sa patuloy na lokal na integrasyon, pagbuo ng aktibong developer ecosystem, at makabagong estratehiya sa compliance, handang-handa ang UPCX na maging isa sa mga nangungunang manlalaro sa pandaigdigang Web3 payment. Para sa mga sumusubaybay sa blockchain finance at digital payments, ang UPCX ay tiyak na proyektong dapat abangan. Tungkol sa UPCX: Ang UPCX ay isang open-source na blockchain-based payment platform na naglalayong magbigay ng ligtas, transparent, at sumusunod sa regulasyong serbisyo sa pandaigdigang user. Sinusuportahan nito ang mabilis na bayad, smart contracts, cross-asset transactions, UIA, NFTs, at stablecoins. Mayroon din itong decentralized exchange (DEX), APIs, SDKs, at kakayahang gumawa ng customized payment solutions, kasama ang integrasyon ng POS applications at hardware wallets upang bumuo ng isang all-in-one financial ecosystem. UPCX Whitepaper 1.0 https://upcx.io/zh-CN/whitepaper/ UPCX Linktree https://link3.to/upcx
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How UPCX Breaks Into the Global Market Through Innovation and Compliance
In the wave of blockchain reshaping the global financial landscape, UPCX has emerged as a focal point in the Web3 payment industry. Leveraging its efficient, secure, and open technical foundation, UPCX sets itself apart not only through its technological innovation but also through its pragmatic global expansion strategy, rooted in compliance, ecosystem building, and localization. This article explores how UPCX, starting from Japan, is expanding into Asia-Pacific, Europe, and beyond, navigating complex international environments to carve out its path to success. Key Advantages of UPCX UPCX’s global ambitions are underpinned by its robust technical capabilities. The platform employs a hybrid consensus mechanism combining Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS) and Byzantine Fault Tolerance (BFT), enabling ultra-high throughput of 100,000 transactions per second (TPS) with near-instant block confirmation speeds. This performance rivals traditional payment giants like Visa and Mastercard, making it suitable for e-commerce, retail, and cross-border payment scenarios that demand exceptional speed and reliability. Furthermore, UPCX supports a wide range of digital assets, including user-issued assets (UIA), stablecoins pegged to fiat currencies, and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). This broad asset support allows users to seamlessly manage fiat, cryptocurrencies, and digital collectibles on a single platform. UPCX is also developing a "super app," integrating payments, reservations, and asset management, offering a user experience comparable to Alipay or WeChat while maintaining the decentralization and openness of Web3. The UPCX ecosystem is growing rapidly. Over 866,000 UPC tokens have been staked, with a total locked value of $3.12 million and more than 40,000 wallet addresses. The community continues to grow in engagement, supported by open APIs and staking incentives that drive the adoption of core projects like the mainnet, wallet, and cross-chain bridge. Why Japan? A Strategic Global Launchpad UPCX’s decision to start its global expansion in Japan is no coincidence. Japan, known for its stringent financial regulations, poses one of the highest entry barriers globally. In March 2025, UPCX successfully launched on BitTrade, a leading exchange regulated by Japan’s Financial Services Agency (FSA). This milestone validates UPCX’s technical and compliance capabilities, significantly enhancing its international credibility and brand reputation. The success in Japan serves as a model for entering other highly regulated markets like Singapore, South Korea, and the European Union. According to UPCX’s Chief Marketing Officer, Koki Sato, the lessons learned in Japan provide a blueprint for navigating high-barrier markets, laying a solid foundation for global expansion. To further cement its presence, UPCX has strategically boosted its visibility through sponsorships of major events like the Formula E Tokyo E-Prix 2025 and the World Swimming Championships. This high-profile approach accelerates user adoption in Japan and the Asia-Pacific region while building trust and brand recognition. Southeast Asia: A Blue Ocean for Blockchain Payments Following its success in Japan, UPCX has turned its attention to high-growth emerging markets in Southeast Asia, including Vietnam, Thailand, and Indonesia. These countries are characterized by fast-growing mobile internet penetration, a large population of young users, and relatively underdeveloped traditional financial infrastructure—ideal conditions for blockchain-based payments and digital asset services. For example, digital payment adoption in these markets is surging, with mobile wallets and cryptocurrencies gaining significant traction. High receptiveness to innovative financial tools, combined with a gradually liberalizing regulatory environment, provides a fertile ground for UPCX’s expansion. With its high-performance, low-cost, and multi-asset support, UPCX is well-positioned to deliver a transformative payment experience, bridging the gaps left by traditional financial services for small businesses and individual users. To succeed in Southeast Asia, UPCX must deepen its localization efforts by partnering with local payment platforms, leading retailers, and internet companies. Additionally, optimizing its products for multi-language and multi-currency environments will enhance market penetration and user loyalty. These efforts will not only help UPCX capture a significant share of Southeast Asia’s blockchain payment market but also strengthen its global expansion strategy. Compliance as the Anchor, Innovation as the Wings The global payment market is rapidly digitizing, with mobile payments expected to grow significantly between 2025 and 2030, particularly in Asia-Pacific and emerging markets. With its ability to handle high-frequency, low-value transactions at minimal cost, UPCX is well-positioned to provide next-generation payment solutions in underserved regions like Southeast Asia and Africa, empowering small businesses and individuals. At the same time, the rise of decentralized finance (DeFi) presents new opportunities for UPCX. The platform’s capabilities in asset issuance and community governance can attract global developers and institutions to participate in decentralized exchanges (DEX), NFTs, cross-chain projects, and more. By seizing early opportunities in emerging markets with less mature regulatory frameworks, UPCX can quickly establish user bases and build strong brand recognition. Compliance remains a core pillar of UPCX’s strategy, earning it the critical “trust premium.” By continuously improving compliance capabilities in highly regulated markets like Singapore and the EU, UPCX can enhance its brand credibility, a key competitive advantage. Moreover, the platform’s expanding product lines, including cross-chain bridges and point-of-sale (POS) solutions, can unlock diverse revenue streams from online-offline integration and cross-border payments, driving sustained growth in market value and user base. Challenges and Strategies for Global Expansion Despite its promising outlook, UPCX faces significant challenges on its path to global expansion: Regulatory Complexity The global regulatory environment remains fragmented and challenging, with rising costs and compliance hurdles from authorities like the U.S. SEC, EU MiCA, and Singapore regulators. UPCX can continue its “easier-first” strategy by entering mature regulatory markets, gradually building compliance expertise, and collaborating with local legal advisors to mitigate policy risks. Intense Competition UPCX must compete not only with traditional giants like Visa and PayPal but also with blockchain-based payment systems like Ripple and Stellar. Sustained technological innovation, an open ecosystem, and differentiating features like its super app will be critical to attracting users and developers while building competitive advantages. Cultural and Regional Differences User preferences vary significantly across regions. For instance, European users prioritize privacy, while Asia-Pacific users value speed and convenience. By conducting in-depth market research and collaborating with local partners, UPCX can tailor its products to meet diverse market needs effectively. Conclusion UPCX is steadily expanding its presence in the Web3 payment space by anchoring itself in compliance and soaring on the wings of innovation. Its success in Japan sets a strong precedent for global growth. By deepening localization, fostering a vibrant developer ecosystem, and advancing compliance innovation, UPCX is poised to become a standout player in the global Web3 payment arena. For those tracking blockchain finance and digital payments, UPCX is undoubtedly a project to watch closely. More about UPCX: UPCX is a blockchain-based open-source payment platform that aims to provide secure, transparent, and compliant financial services to global users. It supports fast payments, smart contracts, cross-asset transactions, user-issued assets (UIA), non-fungible tokens (NFA), and stablecoins. Moreover, it offers a decentralized exchange (DEX), APIs, and SDKs, allows customized payment solutions, and integrates POS applications and hardware wallets for enhanced security, building a one-stop financial ecosystem. UPCX Whitepaper 1.0 https://upcx.io/zh-CN/whitepaper/ UPCX Linktree https://link3.to/upcx
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AEON Credit Reported Rebound Growth in 1QFY2025/26, Net Profit Up 31.3% to HK$109.3 million
HONG KONG, Jun 26, 2025 - (ACN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) - AEON Credit Service (Asia) Company Limited (“AEON Credit” or the “Group”; Stock Code: 00900) today announced its results for the three months ended 31st May 2025 (“1QFY2025/26” or the “Reporting Period”).During the Reporting Period, the Group’s revenue increased by 3.7% year-on-year to HK$442.2 million, primarily driven by higher interest income. This resulted from steady growth in revolving credit card and personal loan receivables balances, coupled with interest rate increases for loan products under the risk-based pricing mechanism.Operating profit before impairment losses and impairment allowances rose 8.7% to HK$229.7 million, with the cost-to-income ratio decreasing to 44.6% from 47.3% in the first quarter of the previous year (“1QFY2024/25” or the “Previous Period”). Driven by the improved operating efficiency, a decrease in average funding cost and reduced impairment losses and allowances, the Group’s profit after tax increased by 31.3% to HK$109.3 million (1QFY2024/25: HK$83.3 million), with earnings per share increasing to 26.11 HK cents for the Reporting Period (1QFY2024/25: 19.88 HK cents).Amidst the challenging market environment, the Group strengthened its credit assessment model to control credit exposure for higher-risk advances and receivables, adapting its credit risk management mechanism to offer prompt debt payment solutions and mitigate the likelihood of credit impairment. Meanwhile, targeted marketing and digital advertising campaigns across diverse media networks successfully stimulated spending, sustaining sales growth momentum for credit cards, which mitigated the drop in personal loan sales due to prudent credit assessment, with total sales in 1QFY2025/26 maintained at the same level as 1QFY2024/25, and the gross advances and receivables balance decreasing marginally by 1.2% from the end of February 2025.Looking ahead, the Group will carefully evaluate market conditions and consumer behaviour, emphasising both mobile application and traditional marketing channels to promote credit cards, personal loans, and other products, and further invest in developing virtual card functionalities. The “AEON HK” mobile application (the “Mobile App”), equipped with advanced credit assessment and drawdown capabilities, will serve as the primary channel for new customer acquisition of credit card and personal loan services. Ongoing application updates will further enhance cybersecurity, fraud prevention, and the online customer experience. Data analytics tools will be continuously refined to improve the effectiveness of marketing, credit assessment, and credit management activities.The Group remains committed to integrating sustainability into its operations, promoting sustainable and digitalised products and services, including forthcoming loan products supporting customers’ transition to a low-carbon lifestyle. Regarding operational digitalisation, the Group has completed enhancements to its call center platform for improved customer interaction and is expanding paperless loan drawdowns across its branch network.In addition, the Group is developing a new rewards platform, which will maximise benefits for AEON Group customers in Hong Kong and provide a more convenient premium point and e-coupon redemption experience.Mr. Wei Aiguo, Managing Director of AEON Credit, said, “We are pleased to report a strong start to the financial year, with significant profit growth achieved in the first quarter despite a persistently challenging market environment. This year holds special significance as AEON Credit celebrates its 35th anniversary in the Hong Kong market. To commemorate this milestone, a series of marketing programs will be launched this year. As we move forward, the Group remains committed to providing exceptional, customer-centric credit card services and expanding its customer base through innovative and customised products. With the Group’s strong liquidity position, robust balance sheet, and proven management capabilities, we are well-positioned to capitalise on opportunities in the recovering market and achieve rebound growth throughout the remainder of the year.”About AEON Credit Service (Asia) Company Limited (Stock Code: 00900)AEON Credit Service (Asia) Company Limited, a subsidiary of AEON Financial Service Co., Ltd. (TSE: 8570) and a member of the AEON Group, was set up in 1987 and listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited in 1995. The Group is principally engaged in the finance business, which includes the issuance of credit cards, personal loan financing, card payment processing services and insurance intermediary business in Hong Kong, and microfinance business in Mainland China.For more information, please visit the company’s website at www.aeon.com.hk. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Honda Opens “Honda Software Studio Osaka” as New Software Development Operation
TOKYO, Japan, June 26, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – Honda Motor Co., Ltd. (Honda) has opened Honda Software Studio Osaka, a new software development operation, in April 2025, at the Grand Green Osaka, a multifunctional commercial complex located in Umeda area, Osaka, Japan. Honda has positioned “enhanced application of intelligent technologies” as the key element to increase the competitiveness of its products, particularly its electrified vehicles, and previously announced the plan to invest approximately 2 trillion yen in software-related research and development over the 10-year period through FY2031 (fiscal year ending March 31, 2031). Based on this direction, Honda has been working on the recruitment of software talent with a high level of expertise and a focus on boosting associate engagement*1 and development capability.As a part of this initiative, Honda has been continuously enhancing its workplace environment for software engineers, expanding the network of its software development operations, starting in October 2023 from Osaka, to Omiya, Shinagawa, Nagoya and Fukuoka. Honda Software Studio Osaka became operational in April 2025 by upgrading the original software development operation in Osaka, and a new development operation in Tokyo is scheduled to open in early 2026.Honda is conducting software development through collaboration between its automobile development operation in Tochigi, Japan — the center of Honda automobile product development — and its software development operations located throughout the country. By leveraging the know-how of such multi-base software development, a well-established company-wide remote work environment and the state-of-the-art facilities established at the new Honda Software Studio Osaka, Honda is realizing high productivity and seamless collaboration among all software development operations.Moreover, Honda is expecting the addition of Honda Software Studio Osaka will boost recruitment of highly talented software engineers and accelerate collaboration with academic researchers and partner companies located in the Osaka/Kansai region, which will enable Honda to create new value for its customers and society. Moving forward, Honda plans to further enhance its human resources in the area of software, by expanding Honda Software Studio Osaka to have approximately 500 associates, which makes Osaka/Kansai the second-largest Honda software development operation in Japan, after the Tokyo/Kanto region. Key features of Honda Software Studio Osaka- A wide range of development teamsHonda Software Studio Osaka brings together a number of development teams responsible for a wide variety of technologies Honda will develop independently to realize its software-defined vehicles (SDVs) including automated driving and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS); various apps such as smart cabin apps; SoC (System on Chip), which is the hardware to run apps efficiently; and the vehicle OS which is a platform that controls the SoC and apps. - Associates with a wide range of backgroundsAs of June 2025, Honda Software Studio Osaka has approximately 100 associates, of which about 85% joined Honda through mid-career recruitment. Those associates leverage a wide variety of career backgrounds, such as system integrators*2, engineers in railroad or electronics companies, and play an important role at Honda by bringing fresh ideas and perspectives that traditional mobility manufacturers did not have. Honda Software Studio Osaka has been increasing the competitiveness of Honda products with speed by combining the expertise of associates who join Honda with experience in different industries together with in-depth knowledge about Honda technologies possessed by associates who started their career at Honda.- Adoption of Activity-based Working (ABW) to support flexible and diverse work stylesHonda Software Studio Osaka adopts Activity-based Working (ABW) style, which liberates associates from a conventional “fixed seating” style and supports more flexible and diverse ways of working. Each associate can choose the most suitable work environment based on the nature and situation of their tasks. The ABW style was adopted with an aim to enhance motivation, maximize performance and foster the flexible thinking of associates. In addition, the adoption of an office design based on the concept of “communication first,” promotes and accelerates spontaneous communication among engineers and different teams, which is expected to lead to dramatic improvement in productivity and new value creation for the entire operation. - Unique features installed based on “The Three Realities Principle”Honda Software Studio Osaka features unique workspaces such as a “project booth,” where project members can engage in discussions and work in front of the actual hardware equipment under development, and a “debug room” equipped with office facilities that enable engineers to work on actual hardware components, including a proper ventilation system to allow soldering work. Moreover, there are some parking spots secured on the basement floor to create a development environment where engineers have easy access to the finished vehicles to which the software they are developing will be applied. These unique features of Honda Software Studio Osaka will contribute to the improvement of product quality and development efficiency by accelerating software testing and debugging*3 processes and by improving the reliability of software through verification on its actual operating environment.While it is an office environment where software engineers tend to spend most of their work hours at their desk, Honda Software Studio Osaka offers a development environment where engineers can touch and test their work on actual hardware. By offering such a work environment, Honda strives to realize a fusion of cutting-edge software development and the long-cherished culture of Honda guided by “The Three Realities Principle,” which emphasizes “going to the real spot, understanding the real situation, and making realistic decisions.” About Honda Software Studio OsakaLocation:Grand Green Osaka South Building Park Tower 27th Floor, 5-54 Ofukacho, Kita-ku, Osaka City, Osaka 530-0011 JapanStart of operation:April 2025Primary function:Development of software and batteries *1 The trust, attachment, and emotional commitment between associates and the company.*2 System integrator (SIer) is a contracted development company that undertakes the entire process of system development.*3 The process of identifying and resolving bugs (errors) in a program. Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.
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Honda Issues “Honda ESG Report 2025”
TOKYO, Japan, June 26, 2025 - (JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com) – Honda Motor Co., Ltd. today issued the Honda ESG Report 2025, posting it on the company website.Japanese language version: https://global.honda/jp/sustainability/report/English language version: https://global.honda/en/sustainability/report.htmlAs one of the tools to enhance communication with a diverse range of its stakeholders, Honda has been issuing an annual report that comprehensively summarizes the company’s approach and initiatives to enhance its sustainability from the perspectives of ESG (Environment, Social, and Governance), with a primary focus on reporting its track record of achievements.Honda had been issuing an annual summary of its ESG initiatives and related data as the “Honda ESG Data Book.” Now under a new name – Honda ESG Report – the summary includes additional information such as targets and direction in each ESG area, as well as initiatives Honda has taken to achieve the targets, a tracked record of achievements, and related data itemized for each target. These changes were made to further clarify the distinction between the Honda ESG Report and the Honda Report, which focuses on sharing stories about how Honda will enhance its corporate value into the future. Honda is committed to making efforts to disclose information in a way that is clear and tailored to meet the needs of its stakeholders. Honda ESG Report 2025Cover of the Honda ESG Report 2025Honda is striving to evolve as a company to continue creating new value based on the company’s unchanging desire since its founding – to “help people and society” and “expand people’s life’s potential.” To this end, Honda is committed to help stakeholders better understand the approach and initiatives Honda is taking to ensure its sustainability by providing easy-to-underhand information through the Honda ESG Report.Moreover, by increasing opportunities to engage in dialogue with its stakeholders, Honda will continue to advance its sustainability initiatives and strive to achieve a steady increase in corporate value, which will enable Honda to continue to be a company society wants to exist into the future. Main contents of the Honda ESG Report 2025:Overview of Honda sustainability initiatives (e.g. basic approach, sustainability management structure)Environmental initiatives (climate change, pollution, water, biodiversity and ecosystems, and resource use and circular economy)Social initiatives (human rights, human resources, supply chain, social contribution activities, safety and quality)Governance initiatives (corporate governance, compliance and risk management) Copyright 2025 JCN Newswire via SeaPRwire.com.