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The accolade marks another major milestone for the reimagined Dusit Thani Bangkok

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 December 2025 – Cannubi by Umberto Bombana at Dusit International’s reimagined flagship hotel, Dusit Thani Bangkok, has been awarded One Michelin Star in The Michelin Guide Thailand 2026 – the first time an Italian restaurant in Thailand has received the distinction.

Curated by renowned chef Umberto Bombana (right), Cannubi by Umberto Bombana at Dusit Thani Bangkok has made history as the first Italian restaurant in Thailand to receive one Michelin star. His vision is brought to life in Bangkok by Executive Italian Chef Andrea Susto (left).
Curated by renowned chef Umberto Bombana (right), Cannubi by Umberto Bombana at Dusit Thani Bangkok has made history as the first Italian restaurant in Thailand to receive one Michelin star. His vision is brought to life in Bangkok by Executive Italian Chef Andrea Susto (left).

Curated by the renowned Chef Umberto Bombana – best known for his Hong Kong flagship, 8½ Otto e Mezzo Bombana, the world’s only three-Michelin-starred Italian restaurant outside Italy – Cannubi by Umberto Bombana reflects the chef’s lifelong dedication to exceptional produce, terroir, and refined Italian cooking.

His philosophy is brought to life in Bangkok by his longtime protégé, Executive Italian Chef Andrea Susto, who works with the finest locally sourced and imported ingredients to craft classically rooted dishes refined with contemporary technique. Seasonal à la carte offerings, tasting menus, a set lunch experience, and a celebrated white truffle menu – honouring Bombana’s reputation as The King of White Truffles – are complemented by a thoughtfully curated wine list of more than 350 labels chosen for their heritage, character, and quality.

Cannubi by Umberto Bombana’s design plays an equal role in shaping the dining experience. Situated on the lobby level of the reimagined Dusit Thani Bangkok, the two-level space looks out over the hotel’s dramatic nine-storey waterfall. Inside, the main dining room is crowned with intricately carved golden teakwood panels preserved and meticulously restored from the original hotel’s Benjarong restaurant. These heritage teak elements, combined with flowing lines and atmospheric lighting, create a warmly intimate setting, complemented by private dining rooms accommodating six and twelve guests.

“To be recognised as the first Italian restaurant in Thailand to receive a Michelin Star is a tremendous honour,” said Chef Umberto Bombana. “Cannubi by Umberto Bombana is a project very close to my heart, created to express the truth and soul of Italian cuisine through integrity, passion, and respect for exceptional ingredients. Seeing this spirit recognised in Bangkok means the world to me. I am incredibly proud of Chef Andrea Susto and our entire team. This accolade also reflects the vision of the new Dusit Thani Bangkok, where craftsmanship and creativity shape every detail.”

Cannubi by Umberto Bombana’s Michelin Star adds to a remarkable year for Dusit Thani Bangkok, which, since reopening in September 2024, has received one Michelin Key and earned its place among the world’s top 100 hotels, ranking #60 on the inaugural extended list of The World’s 50 Best Hotels 2025. The restaurant’s achievement further strengthens the hotel’s emergence as one of the region’s most compelling new dining destinations, with Pavilion, Dusit Gourmet, 1970 Bar, and the dramatic rooftop venue, Spire Rooftop Bar, among the other standout options.

Cannubi by Umberto Bombana is open for lunch and dinner from Tuesday to Sunday. For more information, please visit dusit.com/dusitthani-bangkok.

Hashtag: #DusitHotels

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

About Dusit Thani Bangkok

Part of the landmark Dusit Central Park development, is a reimagined icon that blends timeless Thai elegance with contemporary sophistication. With a prime location overlooking Lumpini Park in the heart of the city, the 257-key property redefines luxury with all park-view accommodations and sets the scene for unforgettable experiences with world-class dining and peerless event venues.

More than just a hotel, Dusit Thani Bangkok brings classic grandeur to life and invites discerning travellers to experience a vibrant blend of modern elegance and timeless charm inspired by the original hotel’s rich heritage and Dusit’s unique brand of gracious Thai hospitality.

For more information, please visit

About Dusit Hotels and Resorts

is the hotel arm of Dusit International, one of Thailand’s leading hotel and property development companies. With a heartfelt belief and commitment to introducing Thai-inspired gracious hospitality to the world, Dusit Hotels and Resorts offers guests a uniquely special stay in high-style surroundings and a personalised approach to service. The group’s portfolio of hotels, resorts and luxury villas includes close to 300 properties operating under a total of nine brands (Devarana – Dusit Retreats, Dusit Thani, Dusit Suites, Dusit Collection, Dusit Hotels, dusitD2, Dusit Princess, ASAI Hotels, and Elite Havens) across 18 countries worldwide.

For more information, please visit

  President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan held talks with American entrepreneur Elon Musk, focusing on advances in artificial intelligence and emerging technologies and how cross-border collaboration can accelerate innovation with practical benefits for societies and economies. The meeting underscored Abu Dhabi’s ambition to position itself as a global hub for advanced technology while engaging with influential private-sector leaders shaping the future of AI, […]

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai   Abu Dhabi-based Modon Holding PSC has entered the United States residential property market through a new joint venture to build a 54-storey tower on the Hudson waterfront, marking a strategic push by the developer to diversify earnings and deepen exposure to mature, dollar-denominated real estate markets. The company said it has partnered with US developer Related Companies and Jersey City firm Panepinto […]

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Italy’s Saipem has clinched a multi-billion-dollar offshore engineering, procurement, construction and installation contract from QatarEnergy LNG, marking one of the largest project awards in the global energy services sector and reinforcing Doha’s long-term expansion plans for liquefied natural gas production. The Milan-based engineering group said the overall value of the contract is about $4 billion, with Saipem’s share estimated at roughly $3.1 billion. […]

Google has committed USD 8 million to support a network of artificial intelligence Centres of Excellence in India, signalling a deeper push into applied AI for public services, health care and local-language technologies while tying the investment to a parallel clean-energy partnership aimed at powering digital infrastructure sustainably.

The funding, announced by Google, is designed to accelerate research, product development and deployment across priority areas that include healthcare delivery, Indic language models and urban governance tools. The company said the centres will work with academic institutions, startups and public-sector bodies to translate laboratory advances into systems that can be deployed at scale, reflecting a broader shift among global technology firms towards mission-oriented AI programmes.

The allocation targets three primary domains. In healthcare, the centres are expected to focus on AI-assisted diagnostics, disease surveillance and workflow automation to reduce administrative burdens on clinicians. Google has previously tested AI models for medical imaging and population health analytics, and the new funding is intended to localise such tools for regional health systems, with attention to data privacy and clinical validation. Researchers involved in early-stage planning say the emphasis will be on interoperable platforms rather than standalone pilots, a response to criticism that many AI health projects fail to move beyond proof of concept.

Language technology forms the second pillar of the initiative. India’s linguistic diversity has long posed challenges for digital inclusion, and the centres are tasked with advancing large language models and speech systems that perform reliably across Indic languages and dialects. Google has already released open datasets and models for low-resource languages; the new programme seeks to improve accuracy, reduce bias and expand access for education, e-governance and small businesses. Industry observers note that competition in multilingual AI has intensified as regional startups and global rivals race to build models that can handle code-switching and local context.

Urban governance rounds out the focus areas, with planned projects covering traffic management, air-quality monitoring and municipal service delivery. Smart-city programmes have generated mixed results over the past decade, often constrained by fragmented data and procurement hurdles. By situating research within Centres of Excellence, Google aims to create replicable frameworks that cities can adapt, rather than bespoke systems tied to individual vendors.

Beyond the AI investment, Google has paired the announcement with a new solar partnership intended to support the energy needs of data centres and AI workloads. The company has pledged to match growth in computing capacity with clean-energy procurement, aligning with its global goal to operate on carbon-free energy around the clock. Analysts say the coupling of AI funding with renewable energy reflects mounting scrutiny of the environmental costs of large-scale computing, particularly as generative AI drives higher power demand.

The USD 8 million commitment is modest compared with Google’s global AI spend, yet its targeted design has drawn attention from policymakers and researchers. Government officials involved in discussions around the Centres of Excellence say the model allows for shared governance, with academic rigour balanced against industry deployment expertise. The approach also aligns with national ambitions to position the country as a hub for responsible AI development, emphasising safety, transparency and societal benefit.

Competition among technology firms has sharpened as Microsoft, Amazon and others expand partnerships with universities and public agencies across the Global South. In this context, Google’s move is seen as both a strategic investment and a reputational play, aimed at demonstrating that advanced AI can address public-interest challenges rather than solely commercial applications. Startups working in health tech and language processing expect spillover benefits through access to datasets, compute resources and mentorship.

A dramatic concept video portraying a proposed “Dubai Air Hotel” by Emirates has ignited global attention, depicting a full-scale Airbus A380 mounted atop a 580-metre, 125-storey tower in Dubai. The vision, priced at an estimated $3 billion, imagines an aviation-themed landmark that would combine ultra-luxury hospitality with a striking architectural statement, reinforcing the city’s reputation for headline-grabbing development. The footage shows the double-deck superjumbo positioned like a […]

PeerTube, the decentralised video-sharing platform positioned as an open-source alternative to YouTube, has rolled out a set of updates aimed squarely at creators, signalling a strategic push to make the network more attractive to professional and semi-professional video producers who have grown uneasy with the economics and governance of large, centralised platforms. The most significant change is the introduction of “Creator Mode”, a feature set designed to […]

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 December 2025 – Singapore’s job market is undergoing rapid transformation, driven by digitalisation, sustainability imperatives, and demographic shifts. The challenge for graduates and professionals lies in maintaining relevance within industries that are shaping tomorrow’s economy. The Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) plays a pivotal role in this development, equipping learners with critical skills and internationally recognised certifications sought by employers.

Growth Sectors Driving Singapore’s Economy

According to the Ministry of Manpower’s Labour Market Report (Q2 2025), resident employment continues to expand in Health & Social Services, while demand for roles in Information & Communications Technology (ICT) and sustainability-related fields remains robust despite global uncertainties. Job vacancies reached 76,900 in June 2025, surpassing the number of jobseekers, with a ratio of 1.35 vacancies per unemployed person—underscoring sustained demand for skilled talent.

Singapore’s Smart Nation and Green Plan strategies highlight key growth sectors including the digital economy (AI, data analytics, cybersecurity, cloud computing), finance and fintech (green finance, blockchain, digital banking), healthcare and life sciences (driven by aging demographics and biomedical innovation), and sustainability (ESG consulting and renewable energy)

SIM’s Industry-Aligned Programmes

SIM addresses the needs of Singapore’s fastest-growing sectors through two key business units: SIM Global Education (SIM GE) and SIM Academy (SIMA).

SIM GE collaborates with leading universities to deliver degree programmes in high-demand areas, such as:

  • Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Data Science and Business Analytics (University of London) – preparing graduates for careers in data analytics and machine learning
  • Bachelor in Computer Science (Big Data and Artificial Intelligence) (University of Wollongong) – developing expertise in cybersecurity and generative AI
  • Bachelor of Business, Majors in Economics, Finance etc (RMIT University) – enabling roles in finance

SIM Academy complements these academic pathways with professional development courses for upskilling and reskilling, including the Starting and Managing Corporate Sustainability, designed to empower professionals to lead ESG initiatives aligned with Singapore’s Green Plan 2030. These offerings combine academic rigor with practical certifications, internships, and industry-aligned projects, ensuring competitiveness in Singapore’s evolving job market.

Alumni Success Pathways

Graduates from SIM’s cybersecurity-related programmes come from a wide range of educational and professional backgrounds, reflecting the diversity of talent entering Singapore’s growing digital sector. Many begin their learning journeys with different motivations, whether to upskill for emerging roles, pivot from adjacent fields or pursue deeper specialisation in cybersecurity.

Some learners are inspired to pursue formal training after encountering real world risks, such as online fraud or data breaches. Others choose to build on existing technical foundations to take on more specialised responsibilities in national and enterprise cybersecurity functions. Through industry-aligned curricula, practical exposure and professional networks, SIM enables these learners to strengthen their competencies in areas such as threat intelligence, AI-enabled defence and cloud security.

These varied pathways highlight how SIM programmes support both early-career and mid-career professionals in progressing to roles within high-demand sectors, as well as further studies at reputable institutions. The outcomes reflect the value of accessible, skills focused education in developing the cybersecurity workforce needed to support Singapore’s transformation into a resilient and digitally driven economy.

Looking Ahead

Singapore’s economic future depends on a workforce that is agile, skilled, and prepared for change. SIM remains a catalyst in this transformation, offering programmes and professional courses aligned with national growth sectors and global trends. By combining academic excellence with practical industry exposure and showcasing alumni who have successfully transitioned into high-demand fields, SIM demonstrates how education drives employability and innovation.

References:

  1. Labour Market Report 2Q 2025 – https://www.mom.gov.sg/newsroom/press-releases/2025/0917-labour-market-report-2q-2025
  2. Smart Nation Vision – https://www.smartnation.gov.sg/about/our-vision/smart-nation-vision/
  3. A city of Green Possibility – https://www.greenplan.gov.sg/
  4. Green Fintech – https://www.mas.gov.sg/development/fintech/Green-FinTech?
  5. Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Data Science and Business Analytics – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/programmes/programme-listing/bachelor-of-science-honours-data-science-and-business-analytics
  6. Bachelor of Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence and Big Data) – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/programmes/programme-listing/bachelor-of-computer-science-artificial-intelligence-and-big-data
  7. Bachelor of Business – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/programmes/programme-listing/bachelor-of-business
  8. Starting and Managing Corporate Sustainability – https://www.sim.edu.sg/professional-development/courses/course-listing/starting-and-managing-corporate-sustainability

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

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

About the Singapore Institute of Management

The Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) is an International Institute of Higher Learning (IIHL) that empowers, uplifts and strengthens employability, at all seasons of life and starting points. Seeded by the Singapore Economic Development Board in 1964, SIM nurtures leaders with industry focused skills, knowledge and values to create impact in Singapore and Asia through globally recognised education and learning pathways.

SIM harnesses new knowledge, skills, and technology to provide skills-based learning experiences that enable students, professionals, and enterprises to Learn for Life and Thrive for Life. Through SIM Global Education (SIM GE) and SIM Academy, SIM supports diverse learning needs—offering higher education pathways and tailored learning journeys for working professionals and enterprises to adapt and grow in an ever-changing world.

With a steadfast commitment to transforming lives, SIM continues to be a catalyst for change across communities, inspiring learners to contribute meaningfully to society, and fostering progress in society.

For more information on the Singapore Institute of Management, visit .

Kenya’s leadership has renewed its push to project the country as a future developed economy, with Deputy President Kithure Kindiki rejecting claims that the ambition is unrealistic and arguing that structural reforms, demographic momentum and targeted investment are laying the groundwork for first-world status. Speaking at a public forum on economic transformation, Kindiki said scepticism about Kenya’s trajectory often ignored long-term planning frameworks and measurable gains in […]

China’s shipments of rare-earth permanent magnets to the United States fell by 11% in November from October, underscoring how strategic trade frictions and regulatory tightening continue to weigh on a supply chain critical to electric vehicles, wind turbines and advanced defence systems. The monthly drop came despite a temporary easing of broader trade tensions between the world’s two largest economies, signalling that structural constraints rather than short-term […]

Unitree Robotics’ G1 humanoid robots have stepped into the spotlight of China’s live entertainment scene, performing as synchronised backup dancers during a Wang Leehom concert that drew about 18,000 people, marking a striking crossover between advanced robotics and mainstream pop culture.

The performance unfolded as the pop star launched into a high-energy segment of his show, with several G1 units emerging alongside human dancers. The robots executed coordinated flips, spins and arm movements in time with the music, mirroring choreography designed for human performers. Large screens magnified the spectacle, prompting audible reactions from the crowd as the machines kept pace under concert lighting and sound conditions.

The appearance was not framed as a technical demonstration but as a fully integrated part of the show, underscoring how humanoid robots are moving beyond laboratories and industrial floors into public-facing roles. For Unitree, a Hangzhou-based robotics firm known for its quadruped robots and growing humanoid portfolio, the concert offered a high-visibility platform to display balance control, motion planning and real-time coordination in an unpredictable environment.

Wang Leehom, a globally recognised figure in Mandarin pop with a career spanning more than two decades, has long embraced technology-driven stagecraft. His decision to feature humanoid robots aligns with a broader trend in China’s entertainment industry, where concerts increasingly rely on immersive visuals, augmented reality and sophisticated stage automation to differentiate live experiences.

The G1 robots, which stand roughly human height and are designed for agility and interaction, performed without visible safety tethers, suggesting confidence in their stability systems. Industry observers noted that executing flips and rapid directional changes in close proximity to human dancers requires precise sensing and control to avoid collisions, highlighting advances in perception and actuation.

Beyond the spectacle, the performance has reignited debate over the role of automation in creative industries. Some performers and choreographers have voiced concern that robots could displace human dancers in certain settings, particularly for repetitive or physically demanding routines. Others argue that such technology will function as a complement rather than a replacement, opening new creative possibilities and reducing costs for large-scale productions.

Producers familiar with concert logistics point out that hiring and training large dance troupes can be expensive, especially for tours spanning multiple cities. Robots, once acquired, can be programmed for consistent performances and reused across shows, potentially lowering long-term costs. At the same time, upfront investment, maintenance, transport and technical support remain significant considerations.

China’s push into humanoid robotics provides important context for the performance. The sector has been identified as a strategic growth area, with companies racing to develop machines capable of operating in human environments. Demonstrations in factories, warehouses and research centres have been joined by public showcases designed to familiarise audiences with humanoid forms and capabilities.

Academic researchers note that public acceptance is a critical factor in the deployment of service robots, particularly those designed to interact closely with people. High-profile cultural events can soften perceptions and shift robots from abstract technological concepts to tangible participants in everyday life.

Social media reaction to the concert was swift, with clips of the robots’ dance routines circulating widely on Chinese platforms. Commentators praised the novelty and technical polish, while others questioned whether audiences were witnessing a glimpse of entertainment’s future or a carefully staged publicity exercise. The buzz itself has amplified Unitree’s brand visibility at a time when competition among domestic robotics firms is intensifying.

Greenlogue/AP A major commitment by Alterra to a renewables platform run by Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners is set to channel long-term capital into clean power, storage and transmission projects across multiple markets, strengthening the scale and pace of energy transition investment worldwide. Alterra, the UAE’s climate investment vehicle with a stated target of deploying $30 billion by the end of the decade, confirmed it is investing in a […]

Veteran Malayalam actor, screenwriter, director and producer Sreenivasan died on Saturday morning at the age of 69, leaving the Indian film industry mourning the loss of one of its most versatile and influential creative voices. He passed away at the Government Taluk Hospital in Thrippunithura, Kochi, after developing severe health complications while being taken for dialysis, hospital officials confirmed. His body has been kept at the facility, and funeral arrangements are expected to follow at his Kandanad home, where his family will receive condolences from peers and admirers.

Sreenivasan was born on 6 April 1956 in the village of Patyam near Thalassery in Kerala’s Kannur district and trained at the Film and Television Institute of Tamil Nadu, Chennai, before embarking on a career that spanned nearly five decades. Over the course of his prolific life in cinema, he appeared in more than 225 films and established himself as a defining presence in Malayalam cinema through his nuanced performances, incisive screenwriting, and sensitive direction.

His death has resonated across the film fraternity, with leading figures paying tribute to a practitioner whose work combined humour, social insight and humanity. Actor–director Prithviraj Sukumaran described Sreenivasan as a “legend whose work touched the core of everyday life,” while Basil Joseph recalled the late actor’s influence on subsequent generations of storytellers. Other industry figures, including Tovino Thomas and Indrajith Sukumaran, have underscored his role in elevating Malayalam cinema through performances that reflected the aspirations and anxieties of ordinary people.

Sreenivasan’s contributions extended beyond acting; he was widely recognised as a gifted screenwriter whose scripts articulated the complexity of Kerala’s social and political landscape. His screenplays for films such as Odaruthammava Aalariyam, Sanmanassullavarkku Samadhanam, Gandhinagar 2nd Street, Nadodikkattu and Sandesam blended sharp satire with accessibility, contributing to the evolution of the comedy genre in Malayalam cinema. Sandesam, in particular, remains a touchstone political satire for its unflinching portrayal of ideological rivalry and everyday life.

As a director, he helmed projects that showcased his range and sensibility, including Vadakkunokkiyanthram and Chinthavishtayaya Shyamala. The former earned the Kerala State Film Award for Best Film, while the latter received the National Film Award for Best Film on Other Social Issues, underscoring his ability to intertwine entertaining narratives with social commentary.

Industry observers noted that Sreenivasan’s work was characterised by an acute understanding of the everyday person’s struggles, often using humour as a vehicle to examine serious themes such as bureaucracy, societal pressures and personal identity. His characters, whether comedic or dramatic, were lauded for their authenticity and depth, resonating with audiences across generations and contributing to his enduring legacy.

Sreenivasan is survived by his wife, Vimala, and their two sons, Vineeth Sreenivasan and Dhyan Sreenivasan, both of whom have carved their own paths in the film industry as actors, directors and producers. His passing prompted an outpouring of respect from colleagues and collaborators, who highlighted his mentorship, sharp wit and unwavering commitment to his craft.

While details of his funeral and memorial services are expected to be finalised by his family, the loss has already sparked tributes from across cultural and political spheres, reflecting the breadth of his influence. Kerala’s film community, as well as admirers nationwide, continue to honour a figure whose work not only entertained but also provided insight into the social and cultural fabric of the region.

Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority has opened an eight-kilometre alternative road that gives direct access to tourist camps in the Al Awir area, easing movement for visitors and service providers and diverting heavy seasonal traffic away from internal desert tracks. The new corridor connects Al Awir Road with clusters of licensed camps, reducing travel time and improving safety during peak desert activity periods. Officials said the alignment […]

SK hynix has secured a significant validation for its enterprise memory portfolio after completing Intel’s Data Center Certified process for a 256GB DDR5 RDIMM designed for the Xeon 6 server platform, marking a first for a module built on 32-gigabit die technology. The certification positions the South Korean chipmaker at the forefront of high-capacity memory deployment for data centres facing sharp increases in workload density driven by […]

Ras Al Khaimah has faced one of the most intense rainfall episodes in its recorded history, with official gauges measuring up to 127 millimetres across two days as a powerful storm system swept the northern emirates. The deluge exceeded the emirate’s typical annual average, overwhelming drainage networks and triggering flash flooding in low-lying and mountainous areas.

Authorities said the heaviest downpours were concentrated around Mina Saqr, Jebel Al Rahibah and the upper reaches of Jebel Jais, where steep terrain funnelled runoff into wadis and access roads. Several residential districts reported water entering homes and ground floors, while industrial zones near the coast saw yards and warehouses inundated. Emergency crews were deployed through the night to clear debris, pump water and assist stranded motorists.

Meteorological data show that the system delivered short bursts of exceptionally intense rainfall, a pattern that hydrologists say increases flood risk even where total volumes might otherwise be manageable. In the mountains, rainfall totals were uneven but locally extreme, with gauges registering more than a year’s worth of rain over 48 hours. The combination of saturated ground and rapid runoff led to temporary road closures and landslides on feeder routes to higher elevations.

Officials from civil defence and municipal services said no fatalities had been reported, though injuries were treated at local hospitals and several families were temporarily relocated as a precaution. Schools in affected zones shifted to remote learning for a day while assessments were carried out. Power and water supplies were largely maintained, though brief outages were recorded in pockets where substations were flooded.

The storm formed as moist air from the Arabian Sea collided with a slow-moving upper-level trough, creating prolonged convective activity over the UAE’s north. Weather specialists noted that while heavy rain events are not unprecedented, the persistence and concentration over Ras Al Khaimah set this episode apart. Satellite imagery showed successive storm cells tracking along the same corridor, repeatedly dumping rain over the same catchments.

Urban planners and climate scientists say the episode underlines growing exposure to extreme weather in arid regions. Studies of the Gulf’s climate indicate a tendency towards more erratic rainfall, with longer dry spells punctuated by intense storms. Such shifts challenge infrastructure designed around historical averages, particularly drainage systems sized for shorter, lighter showers.

Ras Al Khaimah’s leadership said post-storm reviews would examine drainage capacity, early-warning protocols and land-use planning in flood-prone areas. Investment in wadis management and retention basins has increased in recent years, but officials acknowledged that rapid development and changing rainfall patterns require constant reassessment. Work crews were already clearing silt from channels and inspecting culverts to restore full flow capacity.

Residents described scenes of fast-moving water sweeping through streets and wadis within minutes of the heaviest rain. In mountain communities, drivers abandoned vehicles as torrents crossed roads, while hikers on Jebel Jais were escorted to safety by rescue teams once conditions allowed. Authorities reiterated advisories against entering wadis during storms, warning that flows can rise without notice far downstream from where rain is falling.

Insurance providers said claims assessments were under way, with early indications pointing to damage to vehicles, ground-floor properties and small businesses. Analysts noted that insurance penetration for flood damage remains uneven, leaving some households reliant on emergency assistance and community support. Local charities and volunteer groups organised relief supplies, including pumps and cleaning equipment, to help affected families return to their homes.

The episode has also prompted renewed discussion about data sharing and public communication. Meteorologists said advances in radar and nowcasting allow for more precise warnings, but effective response depends on rapid dissemination and public trust. Authorities credited social media alerts and mobile notifications with reducing exposure, though they acknowledged that compliance varies, particularly among motorists accustomed to short-lived showers.

Eight CryptoPunks non-fungible tokens have been accepted into the permanent collection of New York’s Museum of Modern Art, a move that places one of the most influential crypto-native projects alongside canonical works of modern and contemporary art. The acquisition underscores the growing institutional recognition of blockchain-based art forms, even as debate continues over their cultural and market value. The works were added through a donation organised by […]

Bitcoin’s slide below the closely watched $86,000 threshold has unsettled digital-asset markets, breaking a price floor that traders had treated as a key line of defence since the sharp sell-off in October. The move has triggered renewed volatility across major tokens and prompted a reassessment of risk as investors weigh whether the decline reflects temporary dislocation or a deeper shift in market structure. The breach occurred amid […]

TECOM Group has launched Phase 4 of its Innovation Hub at Dubai Internet City, marking a significant expansion aimed at meeting growing demand for Grade-A office space from multinational companies operating across technology, digital media, telecommunications and other future-focused sectors. Valued at Dhs615 million, the new phase will add 263,000 square feet of gross leasable area, reinforcing Dubai Internet City’s role as a regional centre for global […]

Saudi Arabia is preparing to lift crude oil shipments at the start of 2026, a move that underscores mounting concerns about excess supply as global demand growth remains uneven. Allocations to buyers across Asia, Europe and North America are set to rise, according to trade and shipping data reviewed by market participants, pointing to a more assertive sales posture by the world’s largest exporter after months of […]

Abu Dhabi-based developer Modon Holding has awarded a Dh5 billion main construction contract for two large residential communities on Hudayriyat Island, underlining the pace of high-end housing development in the capital’s waterfront corridor. The award covers Nawayef East and Nawayef West and involves the delivery of 735 luxury villas, the company disclosed in a filing to the market. The projects sit within the Nawayef master plan on […]

Washington moved to reset the direction of its civil and military space ambitions after President Donald Trump signed a sweeping executive order in December 2025 committing the United States to a crewed moon landing by 2028 and the establishment of a sustained lunar outpost by 2030. The order places the Artemis programme at the centre of national strategy, couples it with an expanded role for nuclear power […]

Hong Kong and Macau Organisations Honoured for Outstanding Achievements ESG-led Business for a Sustainable Future

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2025 – With global acceleration towards sustainable development and rising expectations from investors and stakeholders for responsible business practices, Hong Kong and Macau enterprises in recent years have been actively integrating Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) vision into their business strategies to drive green transformation and high-quality growth. Organised by Television Broadcasts Limited (TVB) and co-organised by the Hong Kong Productivity Council, the TVB ESG Awards 2025 (the Awards) aim to recognise and commend enterprises and organisations that have demonstrated outstanding performance in ESG and sustainable development. Now in its fourth edition, this annual flagship event recognise outstanding organisations and their achievements in ESG practices over the past year.

The ceremony was officiated by Mr. Michael WONG, GBS, JP, Deputy Financial Secretary (2nd left); Dr. LAM Ching-choi, GBS, JP, Non-official Member of the Executive Council & Chairman of the Council for Carbon Neutrality & Sustainable Development (1st right); Mr. SIU Sai Wo, General Manager (Business Operations), Television Broadcasts Limited (2nd right); and Dr. Lawrence CHEUNG Chi-chong, Chief Technology Officer, Hong Kong Productivity Council (1st left).
The ceremony was officiated by Mr. Michael WONG, GBS, JP, Deputy Financial Secretary (2nd left); Dr. LAM Ching-choi, GBS, JP, Non-official Member of the Executive Council & Chairman of the Council for Carbon Neutrality & Sustainable Development (1st right); Mr. SIU Sai Wo, General Manager (Business Operations), Television Broadcasts Limited (2nd right); and Dr. Lawrence CHEUNG Chi-chong, Chief Technology Officer, Hong Kong Productivity Council (1st left).

The ceremony was officiated by Mr. Michael WONG, GBS, JP, Deputy Financial Secretary; Dr. LAM Ching-choi, GBS, JP, Non-official Member of the Executive Council & Chairman of the Council for Carbon Neutrality & Sustainable Development; Mr. SIU Sai Wo, General Manager (Business Operations), Television Broadcasts Limited; and Dr. Lawrence CHEUNG Chi-chong, Chief Technology Officer, Hong Kong Productivity Council. Following the Green Summit held in July this year, the presentation ceremony also featured sharing sessions, inviting industry leaders and experts to exchange the latest trends and practical experience. In addition, the enhanced matching sessions enabled enterprises to connect with numerous attendees through exhibition booths to promote cross-sector collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Diverse Award Categories Recognise ESG Efforts of Hong Kong and Macau Industries

This year’s Awards include the “Outstanding ESG Award”, “Best in ESG Practices”, “Best in ESG Report”, “ESG Environmental Innovative Technology Award” and “ESG Social Innovative Technology Award”. Entries were open to five groups, namely large, medium, small market capitalisation/ GEM listed companies, as well as non-listed companies and non-profit organisations, to recognise the achievements of enterprises of different scales in ESG practices, reporting and innovation. To identify outstanding performers, a cross-sector professional judging panel appointed by TVB were responsible for assessing entries, using clear and diversified selection criteria that mainly cover five areas: environment, social, corporate governance, sustainability strategy, corporate information disclosure and communication.​​

Additionally, a new “Greater Bay Area ESG Excellence Enterprise Award (Macau SAR)” has been introduced this year to recognise Macau enterprises and organisations with outstanding ESG performance that actively promote sustainable development in the Macau community. Furthermore, to enhance and recognise the excellent performance of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in ESG practices and innovation, TVB has collaborated with the “ESG One” platform of the Hong Kong Productivity Council to launch the “SME ESG Excellence Award” this year. The award covers five areas: “Business Decarbonisation”, “Employee Care”, “Supply Chain Partnership”, “Sustainable Governance” and “ESG Technology Enhancement”, helping SMEs to progressively enhance their ESG performance. Organisations that did not receive the above ESG category awards but have actively performed and implemented ESG initiatives in various aspects will be eligible for nomination of “ESG Special Recognition Award – with Merit” or “ESG Special Recognition Award” in acknowledgement of their contributions.

Mr. Michael WONG, GBS, JP, Deputy Financial Secretary, said in his keynote speech, “Hong Kong possesses significant advantages in green economy transformation. As the city’s two major innovation and technology flagships, Hong Kong Science Park and Cyberport have now brought together over 270 green technology companies, representing growth of more than 80% compared to 2023, reflecting remarkably rapid development in recent years. Hong Kong can provide diversified investment and financing channels, enabling international capital to match with quality green projects. As of the end of September this year, there are over 200 SFC-authorised ESG funds with assets under management exceeding HKD1.1 trillion, demonstrating that investors are increasingly prioritising investment in sustainable development. The Government looks forward to continued collaboration with all of you to jointly build our sustainable future and make outstanding contributions to Hong Kong’s green economic development.”

Mr. SIU Sai Wo, General Manager (Business Operations), Television Broadcasts Limited, said, “The TVB ESG Awards 2025 received over 250 corporate entries this year, reflecting the growing importance of ESG for enterprises. We are grateful to all award-winning organisations and partners for their continued support of this flagship award. This year’s awardees excelled in ESG performance and set forward-looking models for the industry. TVB is actively supporting enterprises to devote resources to ESG development, incorporate sustainability into business decision-making and operations, and strengthen their sense of social responsibility. The Awards also provide a professional exchange platform for enterprises of different industries and scales to share their ESG strategies and tangible outcomes with a wider range of stakeholders.”

To help the public gain a more comprehensive understanding of the vision, mission and innovative strategies of various enterprises, the presentation ceremony featured sharing sessions. The judge Dr. Lawrence CHEUNG Chi-chong, Chief Technology Officer, Hong Kong Productivity Council, together with representatives from enterprises receiving the Outstanding ESG Award, exchanged practical insights. As the highest honour of this year’s Awards, the Outstanding ESG Award is conferred upon top-tier organisations in each category that have achieved the best performance in both “ESG Practices” and “ESG Report”. The award-winning enterprises shared their insights in the session titled “Partnering Across Sectors to Co-create a Low-carbon Future”:

  • Ms. Jessica CHAN, Head of Sustainability of MTR Corporation, shared how MTR leverages its diversified business portfolio to drive carbon reduction and social inclusion in daily operations, thus encouraging business partners to enhance their ESG performance.
  • Ms. Angel SZE, Company Secretary and Head of ESG Management Committee, Fosun International Limited, who shared how Fosun is driving innovation and global development to create value, while highlighting effective ESG practices for cross‑industry and cross‑regional enterprises.
  • Ms. Connie LAU, Assistant General Manager, Legal Department, China State Construction Development Holdings Limited, who used examples of innovative applications to demonstrate the company’s breakthroughs and decarbonisation goals.
  • Mr. Jonathan CHIU, President, Schneider Electric Hong Kong, who highlighted the company’s commitment as a global energy technology leader to driving efficiency and sustainability by electrifying, automating and digitalising industries, businesses and homes, contributing to Hong Kong’s low-carbon transition.
  • Mr. Peter LEE, Chief Sustainability Officer, Airport Authority Hong Kong, elaborated on how the authority collaborates with business partners and extends the sustainability concept to the society and education sector.
  • Mr. Oswald AU, Managing Director, Riskory Consultancy Limited, shared how SMEs can drive ESG through innovative solutions and practical actions, while leveraging mega event economy development to create greater impact.

The judge Dr. Lawrence CHEUNG Chi-chong, Chief Technology Officer, Hong Kong Productivity Council (1st left), together with representatives from enterprises receiving the Outstanding ESG Award, Ms. Jessica CHAN, Head of Sustainability of MTR Corporation (2nd left); Ms. Angel SZE, Company Secretary and Head of ESG Management Committee, Fosun International Limited (3rd left); Ms. Connie LAU, Assistant General Manager, Legal Department, China State Construction Development Holdings Limited (4th left); Mr. Jonathan CHIU, President, Schneider Electric Hong Kong (3rd right) ; Mr. Peter LEE, Chief Sustainability Officer, Airport Authority Hong Kong (2nd right); Mr. Oswald AU, Managing Director, Riskory Consultancy Limited (1st right), exchanged practical insights in the session titled “Partnering Across Sectors to Co-create a Low-carbon Future”.
The judge Dr. Lawrence CHEUNG Chi-chong, Chief Technology Officer, Hong Kong Productivity Council (1st left), together with representatives from enterprises receiving the Outstanding ESG Award, Ms. Jessica CHAN, Head of Sustainability of MTR Corporation (2nd left); Ms. Angel SZE, Company Secretary and Head of ESG Management Committee, Fosun International Limited (3rd left); Ms. Connie LAU, Assistant General Manager, Legal Department, China State Construction Development Holdings Limited (4th left); Mr. Jonathan CHIU, President, Schneider Electric Hong Kong (3rd right) ; Mr. Peter LEE, Chief Sustainability Officer, Airport Authority Hong Kong (2nd right); Mr. Oswald AU, Managing Director, Riskory Consultancy Limited (1st right), exchanged practical insights in the session titled “Partnering Across Sectors to Co-create a Low-carbon Future”.

Building on these insights, another sharing session titled “Building a Green and Sustainable Pathway: Advancing Liveable, Inclusive Smart Cities” invited Mr. Andy WONG, Senior Manager, Advocacy, Our Hong Kong Foundation, as moderator. He was joined by Ir. Franco CHEUNG, Director (Projects), Hong Kong Housing Society, Mr. Samuel KWONG, Senior Associate Director – ESG, Chinachem Group and Mr. Jeffery LOK, Managing Director, Kwan On Chemical Enterprise Co. Ltd., for in-depth discussions on topics such as decarbonisation planning, the application of green building technologies including Modular Integrated Construction (MiC), kitchen and grease trap waste oil recycling, exploring the roadmap for Hong Kong and Macau’s sustainable urban development and environmental benefits.

The sharing session titled “Building a Green and Sustainable Pathway: Advancing Liveable, Inclusive Smart Cities” invited Mr. Andy WONG, Senior Manager, Advocacy, Our Hong Kong Foundation (1st left), as moderator. He was joined by Ir. Franco CHEUNG, Director (Projects), Hong Kong Housing Society (2nd left); Mr. Samuel KWONG, Senior Associate Director – ESG, Chinachem Group (2nd right); Mr. Jeffery LOK, Managing Director, Kwan On Chemical Enterprise Co. Ltd. (1st right) for in-depth discussions.
The sharing session titled “Building a Green and Sustainable Pathway: Advancing Liveable, Inclusive Smart Cities” invited Mr. Andy WONG, Senior Manager, Advocacy, Our Hong Kong Foundation (1st left), as moderator. He was joined by Ir. Franco CHEUNG, Director (Projects), Hong Kong Housing Society (2nd left); Mr. Samuel KWONG, Senior Associate Director – ESG, Chinachem Group (2nd right); Mr. Jeffery LOK, Managing Director, Kwan On Chemical Enterprise Co. Ltd. (1st right) for in-depth discussions.

Strong Corporate Involvement Fosters Cross-Sector Connections

This year’s ceremony attracted enthusiastic participation from numerous enterprises and organisations, including listed companies, non-listed companies and non-profit organisations, signalling the local market’s increasing commitment to ESG. Enhanced matching sessions with exhibition booths were arranged before and after the ceremony, allowing participants to engage in in-depth exchanges on green technology solutions, sustainable development and eco-friendly materials, and to explore collaboration opportunities.

For the full list of award winners, please visit: https://www.tvbesg.com.hk/past-awards/esg-awards-2025

High resolution photos HERE

Hashtag: #TVBESGAwards #TVB #ESG #Corporate

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About TVB ESG

Since 2022, TVB ESG has been committed to building a professional exchange platform for local sustainable development, promoting a deeper understanding, implementation, and strategic development of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) issues among businesses and different sectors of society. TVB ESG works closely with various organisations to foster cross-sector collaboration, help enterprises expand their professional networks and strengthen industry connections, while enhancing their visibility in the market and industry through diverse channels, thereby amplifying their impact in the ESG field.

To enhance industry exchange and promote a culture of sustainability, TVB ESG organises three core events every year, the Green Forum, the Green Summit and the “TVB ESG Awards”. These events aim to focus on key environmental issues and emerging trends, bringing together industry leaders and experts to provide forward-looking insights for enterprises, promote knowledge sharing, and facilitate the exchange of best practices. Through the “TVB ESG Awards”, TVB ESG also recognises enterprises and organisations with outstanding achievements in sustainable development, encouraging the industry to continuously implement and elevate ESG standards.

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