Distributed denial-of-service attacks gathered dangerous momentum in the second half of 2025, with a new industry report showing incidents rising 150 per cent year on year as both volume and velocity increased, underscoring how quickly cyber disruption is moving from episodic nuisance to board-level operational risk. The findings point to a sharp escalation in late 2025, when total attacks climbed to about 1.3 million in the fourth […]
Digital Realty has begun providing colocation infrastructure to Samsung Electronics at its ICN10 facility in Seoul, a deal that highlights how large corporate users in South Korea are seeking more resilient, high-density digital infrastructure as artificial intelligence, cloud services and mission-critical enterprise workloads put heavier demands on power, cooling and connectivity. The announcement was made on March 25 by Digital Realty, which said the arrangement would support Samsung Electronics’ enterprise IT operations from its Seoul site.
The ICN10 facility, located in Sangam-dong in Mapo-gu, has been operating since 2022 and is described by the company as South Korea’s first carrier-neutral data centre. Digital Realty says the building has a maximum IT load of 12 megawatts and around 132,000 square feet of space, with high-density power architecture, network connectivity and the resilience needed for large-scale computing environments. Those specifications matter because enterprise clients are no longer looking only for secure rack space; they increasingly want facilities that can handle denser compute loads without compromising uptime.
For Samsung Electronics, the move points to a practical shift in how even large technology groups manage parts of their own internal infrastructure. Rather than relying exclusively on self-operated facilities, major companies are turning to specialist operators for colocation capacity that can be scaled more quickly and managed to global standards. Digital Realty framed the arrangement as support for a large-scale customer environment in Korea, while emphasising stable, high-performance infrastructure for global enterprises. That wording suggests the deal is less about consumer-facing products and more about the backbone systems that keep a multinational company running across data-intensive operations.
The timing is notable because Seoul’s data-centre market is expanding while facing mounting strain over where future capacity can be built and how it will be powered. Cushman & Wakefield said the Greater Seoul Area reached 533 megawatts of capacity in the first half of 2025, with a further 715 megawatts in the development pipeline, alongside land secured for another 250 megawatts. Its later market update said the second half of 2025 saw double-digit year-on-year growth, while AI demand and tighter power-related rules were reshaping development patterns. That combination of growth and constraint is pushing operators and customers alike to value operational certainty.
South Korea’s broader technology push adds another layer to that demand story. Reuters reported this week that Seoul approved a 250 billion won investment in AI chip startup Rebellions, part of a wider effort to strengthen domestic semiconductor and advanced computing capabilities. Reuters also reported that SK Hynix is pursuing a US listing partly to fund major chipmaking investments tied to rising AI demand. Those moves sit outside the colocation market itself, but they reinforce the same structural point: processing power, data movement and digital infrastructure are becoming more strategically important across the economy.
Digital Realty’s position in Seoul also reflects a larger contest among global and regional operators seeking to capture Asia’s enterprise and cloud demand. Market research and adviser reports point to South Korea as one of the faster-growing data-centre markets in the region, driven by digital-first consumers, cloud adoption and increased enterprise modernisation. JLL’s 2026 outlook said the global data-centre sector could nearly double between 2025 and 2030, while other market estimates show South Korea’s colocation and broader data-centre segments expanding strongly through the decade. Forecasts from commercial research firms should be treated cautiously, but taken together with operator activity and land acquisition trends, they show why Seoul has become a closely watched infrastructure market.
The Samsung agreement may not be transformative in size on its own, yet it carries signalling value. When one of the country’s largest technology groups places enterprise workloads with an external colocation provider, it gives weight to the argument that carrier-neutral, high-density facilities are becoming integral to mainstream corporate IT strategy rather than serving only cloud giants and telecom operators. It also strengthens Digital Realty’s credentials in a market where network diversity, reliability and location all matter.
Questions remain over how quickly South Korea can add capacity in and around Seoul without worsening power bottlenecks or pushing new builds further from the capital’s main concentration of corporate demand. Legal and advisory analyses have pointed to the mismatch between the location of generation capacity and the heavy concentration of data centres around metropolitan Seoul. That tension is likely to shape the next phase of expansion, forcing operators to balance geography, power access and customer proximity more carefully than before.
Co-organized by the People’s Daily and Lianhe Zaobao, the two-day event featured 12 young representatives who explored how their generation is shaping the future through innovation, cultural renewal and cross-border collaboration.
In the first panel, “Youth Driving Tech Innovation,” participants working in robotics, flying cars and data verification discussed both the opportunities and challenges of the AI era.
Tan Wei Hua, head of design at Singapore-based LionsBot International, addressed concerns over “AI anxiety” and its impact on jobs. “New jobs are going to be created. The next generation will be doing something entirely different,” he said, pointing to robotics as a growing field of opportunity.
Quah Zheng Wei, CEO and co-founder of Accredify, encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to take the first step. With the tech industry evolving rapidly, he stressed that “nothing is holding you back.”
From an industry perspective, Michael Du, CFO and vice president of ARIDGE, said emerging technologies are expanding possibilities in everyday life. Meanwhile, Xu Huazhe, assistant professor at the Institute for Interdisciplinary Information Sciences at Tsinghua University, highlighted the strengths of younger generations: “With the correct taste, they will build the most meaningful things.”
The second panel, “Contemporary Renewal of Traditional Culture,” shifted focus from innovation to heritage. Artists and cultural practitioners in wood sculpture, paper art, jewelry design and journalism explored how tradition can be revitalized in modern contexts.
Wood sculpture artist Deng Kun emphasized the importance of cultivating an eye for beauty, while Lianhe Zaobao arts and culture journalist Zhang Heyang described traditional culture as “a place of spiritual haven for today’s youth.”
Designer Longhong Ziwei, founder and art director of the accessory brand Soft Mountains, said engaging with Yi heritage has inspired her work and resonated with international audiences.
Singaporean paper and mixed media artist Koh Pei Li, drawing inspiration from everyday urban life, highlighted the value of noticing overlooked details. Through her work, she hopes to reconnect people with the subtle beauty around them.
In the final panel, “Jointly Building a Sustainable Future,” speakers from architecture, fashion, and marine conservation offered interdisciplinary perspectives on sustainability.
Chen Kan, principal architect of TAB Architecture and Design, spoke about the philosophy of “being-with” as a guiding principle. “We need a deeper capacity to coexist with others,” he said.
Goy Zhenru, principal architect of Goy Architects in Singapore, emphasized designing in harmony with nature. She highlighted the importance of connecting living spaces with natural elements such as breeze and sunlight to create comfort and environmental awareness.
Sam Shu Qin, co-founder of Our Singapore Reefs and Our Blue Spaces, who describes herself as “a gardener underwater,” expressed hope that younger generations will recognize their ability to give back to the ocean.
For fashion designer Chen Peng, founder of brand CHENPENG, sustainability is both cultural and practical. “It should be culture-based and do no harm to the earth. It’s not a choice, but a natural extension of philosophy,” he said.
The dialogue marked a step forward in media cooperation and people-to-people exchanges between China and Singapore. By amplifying youth perspectives, it showcased the innovative energy and collaborative potential of both countries, while helping to build a long-term platform for bilateral engagement and shared progress.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Dubai has added 13 new cycling tracks as the Roads and Transport Authority pushes ahead with a plan to turn the emirate into a far more connected cycling city, advancing a wider network that officials say is meant to reach 1,000 kilometres by 2030. The newly completed routes are part of a 15-track master plan spanning 162 kilometres and are intended to link residential districts, beaches, […]
Erythritol, a low-calorie sweetener widely used in sugar-free drinks, protein bars, keto snacks and diabetic-friendly foods, is facing renewed scrutiny after new research found it can harm cells lining tiny blood vessels in the brain in ways that may favour clotting and reduce normal vessel relaxation. The study adds to a growing body of evidence that has raised questions over whether one of the food industry’s most […]
Disneyland Paris has formally opened a new phase of its long-running expansion, using the March 29 debut of World of Frozen to relaunch its second gate as Disney Adventure World, a move the company says marks the biggest transformation in that park’s history. Official announcements from Disneyland Paris, backed by Reuters and Associated Press reporting, show the renamed park now centres on a large new Frozen-themed land, […]
Ethereum has drawn renewed market attention after a sharp jump in large-holder transactions coincided with a formal push by developers to harden the network against future quantum-computing risks. Data circulated by analyst Ali Martinez showed whale transactions rising from 123 on 21 March to 2,055 on 24 March, a move that put the token back at the centre of debate over whether big holders are accumulating, rotating […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Exeed has opened a new showroom in Jeddah through Arabian Heritage Motors, part of Al Ghurair Mobility, extending the premium vehicle brand’s physical presence in Saudi Arabia as competition intensifies among Chinese carmakers across the Gulf. The Jeddah launch was disclosed by Al Ghurair in a corporate post and comes after Exeed appointed Al Ghurair as its exclusive distributor in the Kingdom in […]
By K Raveendran US President Donald Trump’s attempt to jawbone oil lower has run into the hard edge of market reality. At the start, the strategy appeared to work. When he signalled that peace talks with Iran were possible and suggested a diplomatic opening, crude quickly gave back a large share of its war premium. […]
The article Energy Markets See Through Shallow Peace Talk, Move On Their Own Terms appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).
London Internet Exchange has completed a broad upgrade of its 17-site LON2 network in the capital, handing Nokia a deeper role in one of the UK’s most important interconnection systems at a time when traffic growth, AI-led workloads and the retirement of older equipment are forcing operators to rethink how core internet infrastructure is built and scaled. The overhaul covers LINX’s secondary London interconnection fabric, known as […]
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 March 2026 – Following last year’s “The World’s 50 Best Bars” Award Ceremony in Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) this year brought the “Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026” Awards Ceremony to Hong Kong for the first time. The event today (25 March) brought together over 1,000 culinary industry representatives, renowned chefs and media worldwide. Top local Cantonese restaurant The Chairman and contemporary Cantonese restaurant Wing secured first and second places respectively on the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026 list, once again highlighting the leading position of Hong Kong’s dining scene in Asia.
HKTB Chairman Dr Peter Lam said: “We extend our sincere gratitude to the Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants team for selecting Hong Kong for the first time as the host city for the Awards Ceremony. This international award recognises the outstanding achievements of the culinary sector. I am very proud of Hong Kong’s remarkable accomplishments in this year’s Awards. Together with the ‘MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong Macau 2026’ and ‘The Black Pearl Restaurant Guide’, over 200 restaurants have been listed in these internationally acclaimed gourmet guides, reaffirming Hong Kong’s position as a “Culinary Capital” in Asia. We are delighted to welcome the esteemed Asian chefs and other culinary professionals attending the Awards Ceremony to Hong Kong, and we warmly invite everyone to explore the city’s unique and diverse gastronomic charm by following the master chefs’ curated recommendations featured in the citywide ‘Taste Hong Kong’ Gourmet Guide.”
Danny Yip, owner of The Chairman, said “Being named The Best Restaurant in Asia for the second time is a huge honour for our entire team, and to achieve it here in Hong Kong makes it even more meaningful. This recognition — as well as the strong results for the city on this year’s list — reflects the depth and diversity that define Hong Kong’s dining culture today. It’s a privilege to represent our city in this way and to continue sharing the traditions and stories that shape our cuisine.”
Hong Kong Leads Asia Culinary Landscape with Two Restaurants in the Top Three
Together with the previously announced extended list of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants (51th – 100th), a total of ten Hong Kong restaurants were recommended in the Asian edition of the prestigious list. These include six restaurants in the top 50: while The Chairman and Wing topped the list at first and second spots, Neighborhood (No. 24), Estro (No. 32), Caprice (No. 35), and Mono (No.46) stayed strong on the list. Four other restaurants were also feature in the extended list, namely Ta Vie (No. 68), Vea (No. 70), Andō (No. 88), and Amber (No. 90). With this stellar performance, Hong Kong reaffirming its leading position in the regional culinary scene. The winning restaurants cover a diverse range of cuisines, demonstrating Hong Kong’s unique appeal as a melting pot of global flavours and a hub for star-rated dining establishments.
In the recently announced “Black Pearl Restaurant Guide”, the number of Hong Kong entries increased to 39, up from last year, including four first-time entries – Mosu Hong Kong, founded by three-Michelin-star South Korean chef Sung Anh; Jee, a Cantonese-French fusion restaurant; contemporary Indian restaurant Leela, and Cantonese fine-dining establishment Man Ho Chinese Restaurant. In addition, homegrown chef Vicky Cheng of Chinese-French restaurant VEA, and Terry Ho, Chef de Cuisine of French restaurant Amber, received the Master Chef Award and the Young Chef Award respectively in the Black Pearl Restaurant Guide, affirming the distinguished reputation of Hong Kong’s culinary talent in the Asian dining scene. In the “MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong Macau 2026”, more Hong Kong establishments were awarded MICHELIN stars than in the previous year, bringing a total to 77 Michelin-starred restaurants in one destination, further demonstrating the world-class standard of the city’s culinary scene.
Top Asian Chefs and Global Media Gather in Hong Kong to Experience the City’s Culinary
Capitalising on the opportunity presented by major culinary event being hosted in Hong Kong, HKTB arranged exchanges between leading Asian chefs and renowned local culinary talent, enabling them to experience the city’s diverse gastronomic offerings and produce promotional videos dedicated to “Taste Hong Kong”. In addition, HKTB leveraged its global network to invite media representatives from the Chinese Mainland, Taiwan, South Korea, Southeast Asia and other key markets to visit Hong Kong. In addition to attending the award ceremony for media coverage of the event, HKTB curated a series of immersive culinary experiences to fully showcase Hong Kong’s unique charm as a Culinary Capital.
Highlights of the itinerary included engaging with local master chef Vicky Cheng to gain firsthand insight into his exceptional culinary skills and cooking philosophy; participating in a dim sum workshop led by master chef Wong Lung-to, Executive Chef of Forum Restaurant, to learn how to make classic Cantonese dim sum such as siu mai (Cantonese pork dumplings) and har gow (shrimp dumplings); and joining an egg tart baking workshop. Media representatives were also invited to dine at several listed restaurants and visit emerging bars to experience Hong Kong’s diverse food and beverage culture in full. Through in-depth media coverage, the media trip will help promote Hong Kong’s distinctive culinary appeal to audiences worldwide, attracting more visitors to explore “Taste Hong Kong” and further consolidating the city’s status as a Culinary Capital.
11 Exclusive Collaborative Signature Sessions around the Awards Ceremony to Share Hong Kong’s Gastronomic Experiences
To encourage locals and visitors to immerse themselves in the vibrant atmosphere surrounding the award ceremony, HKTB partnered with the organiser for the first time this year to invite 40 internationally renowned and local award-winning restaurants to present 11 limitedtime collaborative Signature Sessions covering various global cuisines, bringing multiple tasting surprises to locals and visitors. The events attracted many locals and visitors, allowing everyone to experience the charm of global cuisines converging in Hong Kong at a single table.
Popular Variety Shows Drive Tourism and Encourage Visitors to Experience Hong Kong’s Diverse Culinary Delights through “Taste Hong Kong”
In line with the “Taste Hong Kong” Gourmet Guide launched in January, which covers all neighbourhoods across the city and features chef-recommended restaurants, HKTB has stepped up its promotional efforts in key source markets, such as the Chinese Mainland, Taiwan, New Zealand, South Korea and Southeast Asia. By collaborating with popular local food variety shows, HKTB showcased Hong Kong’s diverse dining culture to wider audiences, further enhancing international interest in Hong Kong’s culinary tourism.
In the Chinese Mainland, HKTB promoted culinary travel to Hong Kong through a Chinese New Year food programme on Shenzhen Satellite TV, with master chefs introducing restaurants recommended in the Guide and visiting specialty streets such as “Dried Seafood Street” and Shanghai Street, locally known as “Kitchenware Street”, to explore the charm of Hong Kong’s neighbourhoods. HKTB also partnered with New Zealand’s popular programme Seven Sharp, inviting media to visit Sham Shui Po to taste authentic local snacks, such as pineapple buns, milk tea, tofu pudding and dumplings, and to dine at a time-honoured Western restaurant to sample Swiss chicken wings and soufflé, showcasing Hong Kong’s diverse food culture. In addition, HKTB collaborated with Taiwan’s Super Taste, South Korea’s Boss in the Mirror, and multiple travel and food programmes in Thailand and the Philippines, featuring visits to recommended restaurants and exchanges with local master chefs. Through the broad influence of these variety shows, HKTB is actively showcasing the unique charm of “Taste Hong Kong”, attracting more visitors to embark on a culinary journey in Hong Kong.
Full results of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2026: https://www.theworlds50best.com/asia/en/list/1–50
Hashtag: #HKTB
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Zimbabwe has turned a long-signalled restriction on second-hand clothing into formal law, tightening its effort to shield domestic manufacturers even as economists and traders warn that the move could squeeze low-income consumers and deepen pressure on an already fragile apparel market. The measure is now enforced under Statutory Instrument 59 of 2026, which bars the import of second-hand clothes unless an importer holds a government permit issued […]
Gulf tensions are sharpening the risks for African health systems already reliant on imported medicines, as disrupted shipping routes, higher freight bills and delayed emergency supplies expose how vulnerable the continent remains to external shocks while governments push to expand local drug production. The strain has moved beyond theory. Aid officials said this week that cholera supplies for countries including Chad and South Sudan were being […]
Singapore-linked professional bodies and trade groups have opened a Professional Services Centre in Nanjing, pitching it as a gateway for Chinese companies seeking to expand into Southeast Asia and for Singapore firms looking to deepen their footprint in China. The launch took place on March 27 at a forum in Nanjing and marks the alliance’s second centre in China and third globally, according to the announcement distributed by the organisers.
The centre has been set up under an alliance led by the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants and supported by the Association of Small & Medium Enterprises, Institute of Valuers & Appraisers, Singapore Business Federation, Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry, Singapore Manufacturing Federation, Tax Academy of Singapore and the Law Society of Singapore. Organisers said the Nanjing base is intended to provide companies with legal, tax, accounting, valuation, advisory and market-entry support as they navigate cross-border expansion. The move comes as commercial links between China and ASEAN continue to broaden and as businesses face a more complex regulatory and geopolitical environment when operating across jurisdictions.
Nanjing was presented as a deliberate choice rather than a symbolic one. The alliance said the city offers strong university linkages, talent pools and institutional support, while the Singapore-Nanjing Eco Hi-tech Island provides an established platform for bilateral cooperation. That project is jointly backed by authorities in Jiangsu and Nanjing as well as Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry, giving the new centre an anchor in a corridor that already carries a Singapore brand in east China.
Officials used the launch to underline the commercial logic. Nanjing Vice Mayor Xu Feng said enterprises expanding overseas depend on professional services support and described Singapore as a global hub with complementary strengths. Ernie Koh, a council member at Singapore Business Federation and vice-chairman of the research and publications committee at Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry, said the platform could help enterprises build capabilities and unlock opportunities across Southeast Asia. Darren Ku, a council member at ASME, said smaller companies in particular need a more coordinated route into foreign markets, from compliance to market-entry strategy. Daniel Koh, vice-president of the Law Society of Singapore, framed the legal dimension as equally important, arguing that cross-border growth now demands stronger risk management and regulatory advice.
The alliance is presenting the centre as more than a ceremonial office. It says its centres in China and Vietnam have already supported more than 100 businesses, and cited BIPO, the human resources technology group, as one example of a company that used the ecosystem to establish operations and build local teams in Nanjing. Those claims could not be independently verified from public disclosures in full, but they fit the broader trend of service providers bundling market access, compliance and talent support for companies trying to expand across Asia without building every capability in-house.
That broader trend matters. Enterprise Singapore continues to position China as a major destination for outward expansion, pointing to its scale, consumer market and innovation ecosystem, while also offering grants and overseas market assistance to firms venturing abroad. At the same time, ASEAN’s own data show the region’s trade in goods rose to about $3.8 trillion in 2024, and ASEAN says two-way merchandise trade with China reached $772.4 billion that year, accounting for roughly a fifth of ASEAN’s total trade. Chinese media and official commentary have since pointed to China-ASEAN trade crossing the $1 trillion mark in 2025, underscoring why service platforms that specialise in cross-border operations are multiplying.
Commercial opportunity, however, does not remove the risks. China is trying to reassure foreign investors after weaker inbound investment figures, while international companies remain alert to policy shifts, compliance burdens, data rules and geopolitical tensions. Reuters reported this month that Beijing has been signalling a more open stance to foreign business even as it works to reverse a decline in foreign direct investment. For Chinese firms heading south, Southeast Asia offers growth, manufacturing diversification and access to younger consumer markets, but it also presents a patchwork of tax regimes, legal systems and political risks that can complicate expansion plans. That is precisely the gap the Nanjing centre says it wants to fill.
The launch also reflects a wider Singapore strategy of exporting professional and business services alongside capital and trade links. Earlier alliance messaging around the Shanghai centre described a “hunt in a pack” model in which multiple associations expand together so companies can tap a bundled network rather than isolated advisers. That approach appears to be carrying over into Nanjing, with the added emphasis on helping Chinese enterprises invest in Singapore and across ASEAN, not only on helping Singapore firms move into China.
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Mezza, a new hospitality platform in the UAE, has launched with a model aimed at giving restaurants upfront capital in exchange for future food and beverage credit, offering operators an alternative to bank debt or equity fundraising while also promising a pipeline of diners over time. The company says partner venues can access between AED 20,000 and AED 10 million, with the credit […]
Qatari billionaire Sheikh Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani has taken a stake in German robotics company Neura Robotics, adding Gulf capital to one of Europe’s biggest funding pushes in humanoid and cognitive machines. The investment places the former Qatari prime minister alongside Amazon in Neura’s latest financing, while corporate filings cited by Bloomberg show he became a shareholder through Prime Capital SA, a unit […]
Rare operatic genres, often referred to as endangered theatrical forms, are typically characterized by strong regional identities, limited reach, scarce inheritors, and relatively small scale. Shaped over centuries, they embody distinctive musical styles and performance forms of high artistic value and deep cultural resonance. As an integral part of intangible cultural heritage, they preserve local dialects, customs, and cultural ideals..Their protection, transmission, and revitalization are essential to strengthening the foundations of Chinese opera and advancing the creative transformation and innovative development of traditional Chinese culture.
This year’s showcase drew participation from over 100 troupes nationwide, with 36 outstanding works selected. Covering genres such as Yong Opera, Qian Opera, Qi Opera, Dunqiang, and Yong Opera, the showcase highlighted recent progress in safeguarding and revitalizing China’s rare operatic traditions.
Hashtag: #BinzhouInformationOffice
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Saeed bin Suroor heads into the Dubai World Cup meeting with a chance to extend one of racing’s most enduring records, as the Godolphin trainer prepares Dubai Future for a prominent bid in the Dubai Gold Cup on Saturday. The veteran handler, long associated with Godolphin’s rise on the global stage, is aiming to push his tally at the meeting to a new […]
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 March 2026 – Co-presented by the Hong Kong Arts Festival and The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, “No Limits” 2026 will collaborate for the first time with Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra (HKCO) to jointly present Light and Shadow on Strings. The concert will be held on 28 March 2026 (Saturday) at 3pm at the Tsuen Wan Town Hall Auditorium. Featuring a 50-member HKCO ensemble alongside rising erhu star Yang Enhua, the performance brings together solo, chamber and orchestral works in a celebratory programme of Chinese music, showcasing the artistic synergy that emerges when musicians of diverse abilities share the same stage.
The concert is one of the major programmes of “No Limits” 2026 and marks HKCO’s inaugural participation in this inclusive festival, representing a significant step forward in advancing inclusive arts within Hong Kong’s mainstream cultural landscape.
Rupert Woo Pak-tuen, Associate Conductor of HKCO and Resident Conductor of the Hong Kong Young Chinese Orchestra, will lead the ensemble and Yang Enhua in a selection of orchestral works. These include the huqin quartet Ru-Meng-Ling, the five-piece combo Autumn Moon on a Placid Lake, and the string quintets Three Variations on Yangguan and A Joyful Evening. The programme also features Tam Yat-sing’s Eternal Night, which was named the Audience’s Favourite at HKCO’s 2023 Music from the Heart concert. Through diverse ensemble formations, the performance weaves a richly layered world of Chinese music, revealing both the delicacy and dynamism of Chinese music through refined musical dialogue.
Yang Enhua will perform three solo works: Dishui Nanyin Words of the Blind, recognised as part of Hong Kong’s Intangible Cultural Heritage; Sun Wenming’s renowned Farewell; and Hua Yanjun (Ah Bing)’s iconic Reflection of the Moon on the Water. Through nuanced expression and tonal depth, these works embody both the inheritance and innovation of traditional Chinese music, conveying resilience and dignity of spirit amid adversity.
The concert will also present the world premiere of Luminous Sound Journey, a newly commissioned work by cross-disciplinary composer Luk Wai-chun, commissioned by “No Limits” and HKCO. Inspired by the sensory experiences of visually impaired individuals in perceiving light and sound, the piece intertwines sonic and visual imagination, guiding audiences into a musical journey that transcends perception and expectation.
Co-produced by “No Limits” and HKCO, Light and Shadow on Strings marks an important milestone in the journey of inclusive arts towards the mainstream stage.
Eddy Zee, Project Director of “No Limits”, said: “Light and Shadow on Strings is an important embodiment of No Limits’ commitment to advancing inclusive arts into the mainstream. The collaboration between Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra and erhu soloist Yang Enhua demonstrates how the spirit of inclusion can be realised on the foundation of professional artistic excellence, revealing the distinctive creative energy that emerges when mainstream musicians and artists of diverse abilities come together.”
Dr Chin Man-wah, Executive Director of the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra, said: “There are multiple perspectives when it comes to defining the success of a social care project; it is not just about the audience attendance rate, but more importantly about the cultivation of talent, the accumulation of experience, and the establishment of mindsets.”
Rupert Woo Pak-tuen, Associate Conductor of the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra and Resident Conductor of the Hong Kong Young Chinese Orchestra said: “Light and Shadow on Strings reveals the rich layers of Chinese music, from the subtle intimacy of solo passages to the powerful resonance of ensemble works. Through this collaboration, we hope audiences can experience the music’s purity of tone, its striking contrasts, and the profound emotional intensity it carries. This programme serves to illustrate our vision of harmony in diversity and our unwavering commitment to inclusion.”
Yang Enhua said:”Music has always been my bridge to the world, leading me beyond the boundaries of visual impairment. Through this performance, I hope to show how sound carries emotion and imagination, and to embrace the diverse ways we all perceive the world. I truly value this collaboration with No Limits and Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra. Their professionalism and trust have allowed us to create and share the sincere power of music on equal ground.”
Light and Shadow on Strings is the closing programme of the eighth edition of No Limits. For details, please visit: www.nolimits.hk.
| Light and Shadow on Strings | |
| Date and Time | 28 March 2026 (Sat), 3pm |
| Venue | Auditorium, Tsuen Wan Town Hall |
| Ticket | HK$258、HK$198 |
| Accessibility Services | Subtitles in Chinese and English, house programme in audio format and extra wheelchair seating available; guide dogs welcome |
| Note | Approx. 80 minutes with one interval The performance contains smoke effects The performance contains scenes of near complete darkness |
| Song | Composer / Arranger |
| Dishui Nanyin Words of the Blind | Yang Enhua |
| Erhu Solo Farewell | Sun Wenming |
| Erhu Solo Reflection of the Moon on the Water | Hua Yanjun
Orch.by Ding Guoshun |
| Five-piece Combo Autumn Moon on a Placid Lake | Lui Man Shing |
| Huqin Quartet Ru-Meng-Ling | Yang Chunjia |
| String Quintet Three Variations on Yangguan | Ancient Tune
Arr. by Hu Dengtiao |
| String Quintet A Joyful Evening | Hu Dengtiao |
| Eternal Night | Tam Yat sing |
| Seeking (The Third Movement of The Desert Smoke Suite) | Zhao Jiping |
| Luminous Sound Journey (Commissioned by No Limits and HKCO / World Premiere) | Luk Wai-chun |
Hashtag: #NoLimits
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Launched in 2019 and co-presented by the Hong Kong Arts Festival and The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, “No Limits” offers barrier-free performances and events and explores and promotes inclusiveness and understanding through the arts.
Every year from February to March, “No Limits” showcases a series of fascinating programmes of music, dance, theatre and film by international and Hong Kong artists of different abilities. It also presents free film screenings as well as education and community programmes including an international symposium.
“No Limits” is committed to provide accessible in-venue performances and programmes for people with different abilities, highlighting creativity and talent in a variety of forms, spreading the message of inclusion to the society.
For more information about “No Limits”, please visit 
https://www.nolimits.hk.
Founded in 1977, Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra is often invited to perform at famous venues and festivals all over the world, having covered Europe, North America, Asia, Australia and the Arctic Circle to date. It is therefore acclaimed as a leader among full-sized Chinese music ensembles in the international arena today. The Orchestra is set up in four sections: bowed-strings, plucked-strings, wind and percussion. The instruments include both the traditional and the improved, new versions: the bowed-string section has been using the Eco-Huqin series developed by the Orchestra since 2009. HKCO performs both traditional Chinese music and contemporary, full-length works in a variety of musical formats and contents. It also explores new frontiers in music through commissioning over 2,400 new works of various types and styles, whether as original compositions or arrangements.
About Yang Enhua
Yang Enhua began learning erhu at the age of 12, and has over fifteen years’ experience studying under Zhao Yijun, Gan Bolin, Li Aping, Peng Cheng, and Mao Qinghua of Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra. In 2022, Yang won the VSA International Young Soloists Competition and performed at the Kennedy Center, USA. In 2024, he performed in Seoul and ranked fourth in Korea’s first International Visually Impaired Solo Competition. In 2025, he won the Silver Award at the Singapore International Solo and Chamber Music Competition (Chinese Music category), and received a top ten award at the Danny Awards and the Special Grand Prize at the World Chinese Music Competition. Yang is committed to promoting musical inclusion, supporting employment for people with disabilities, and connecting communities through music. He is currently pursuing an undergraduate degree at the Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, supported by the Lee Hysan Scholarship.
About the Hong Kong Arts Festival
Launched in 1973, the Hong Kong Arts Festival is a major international arts festival committed to enriching the cultural life of the city. In February and March every year, the Festival presents leading local and international artists from all genres of the performing arts, giving equal importance to great traditions and contemporary creations. The Festival also commissions and produces work in theatre, music, chamber opera and contemporary dance by Hong Kong’s own creative talents and emerging artists, many of which have subsequently had successful runs in Hong Kong and overseas. Every year, the Festival also presents more than 250 “PLUS” and educational activities that offer diverse arts experiences to the community as well as tertiary, secondary and primary school students. In addition, through the “No Limits” project co-presented with The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, the Festival strives to create an inclusive space for people of different abilities to share the joy of the arts together.
For more information about the Hong Kong Arts Festival, please visit https://www.hk.artsfestival.org/.
A decision by Donald Trump to extend a pause on military strikes targeting Iran’s energy infrastructure into April has injected a fresh layer of uncertainty into a conflict that has already rippled across the Middle East, disrupted oil markets and heightened global inflation concerns. The move follows nearly four weeks of escalating hostilities involving Iran, regional militias and US-backed forces, with attacks on energy installations, shipping routes […]
Reflection, an artificial intelligence startup supported by Nvidia, is seeking to raise $2.5 billion at a valuation of about $25 billion, positioning itself as a high-profile contender to China’s rapidly advancing open-source AI ecosystem led by DeepSeek. The fundraising effort, still under discussion with investors, underscores intensifying competition between proprietary AI models backed by large capital pools and open-source alternatives gaining traction across Asia and beyond. Reflection’s […]
Tensions surrounding the Strait of Hormuz have moved to the centre of calculations in the confrontation involving Donald Trump and Iran’s leadership, as competing narratives over diplomacy and deterrence shape global energy and security outlooks. Statements from Washington suggesting Tehran is seeking terms to end hostilities contrast sharply with signals from Iranian officials, who continue to project defiance while recalibrating their strategic posture in the Gulf. The […]
Highlights:
Financial Highlights:
| For the year ended 31 Dec | ||||
| HK$’ million | 2025 | 2024 | Change | |
| Revenue | 8,572.2 | 6,066.0 | +41.3% | |
|
7,697.8
718.9 155.5 |
5,414.5
512.0 139.5 |
+42.1%
+40.4% +11.5% |
|
| Gross profit | 486.2 | 353.2 | +37.6% | |
| Gross profit margin | 5.7% | 5.8% | -0.1 p.p. | |
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 March 2026 – CR Construction Group Holdings Limited (“CR Construction” or the “Company”, together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”; stock code: 1582.HK), a building contractor in Hong Kong, announced its annual results for the year ended 31 December 2025 (“FY 2025”). During FY 2025, the revenue recorded by the Group amounted to approximately HK$8,572.2 million representing an increase of approximately 41.3% as compared to approximately HK$6,066.0 million for the year ended 31 December 2024 (“FY 2024”). Profit for the year of the Group during FY 2025 was approximately HK$42.2 million.
In FY 2025, gross profit of the Group was approximately HK$486.2 million, representing an increase of approximately 37.6% as compared to approximately HK$353.2 million for FY 2024. The Group’s gross profit margin was approximately 5.7% and 5.8% for the year ended 31 December 2025 and 2024, respectively. During the Reporting Period, earnings per share of the Group was approximately HK7.84 cents (FY 2024: HK10.74 cents).
BUSINESS REVIEW
Construction Operations
As at 31 December 2025, the Group had 50 projects on hand with an aggregate original contract sum of approximately HK$32.6 billion. During FY 2025, the Group had been awarded 15 new projects with an aggregate original contract sum of approximately HK$5.6 billion and had completed 17 projects with an aggregate original contract sum of approximately HK$6.1 billion.
Building Construction Works
In FY 2025, the revenue generated from the building construction works was HK$7,697.8 million, representing an increase of approximately 42.1% as compared to approximately HK$5,414.5 million for the FY 2024. The increase was mainly due to the increase in revenue generated from new projects and existing projects during the year.
During FY 2025, the gross profit of building construction works was approximately HK$334.6 million, representing an increase of approximately HK$96.5 million as compared to approximately HK$238.1 million for FY 2024. The gross profit margin decreased slightly to approximately 4.3% (2024: 4.4%).
Repair, Maintenance, Alteration and Addition (“RMAA”)
The revenue generated from the RMAA works increased by approximately 40.4% from approximately HK$512.0 million for FY 2024 to approximately HK$718.9 million for FY 2025.
The gross profit of RMAA works was approximately HK$93.3 million, representing an increase of approximately HK$22.4 million from the gross profit of approximately HK$70.9 million for FY 2024. The gross profit margin decreased to approximately 13.0% for FY 2025. The increase in gross profit and decrease in gross profit margin was mainly due to increase in revenue from RMAA work projects with lower gross profit margin in FY 2025.
Environmental Operations
As at 31 December 2025, the Group had 8 projects with an aggregate original contract sum of approximately HK$158.4 million and 28 projects relating to service concession arrangements and operation services.
During FY 2025, the Group demonstrated its capacity for market expansion by securing its first wastewater treatment construction contract outside of Zhejiang Province in Gaoping City, Shanxi. Furthermore, the Company strategically formed a joint venture with Tiantai Construction and the Group to pursue new opportunities in environmental services and sewage treatment, thereby enhancing its existing business.
The revenue generated from the environmental operations in FY 2025 was approximately HK$155.5 million, representing an increase of approximately 11.5% as compared to approximately HK$139.5 million for FY 2024.
In FY 2025, the gross profit was approximately HK$58.3 million, representing an increase of approximately HK$14.1 million as compared to approximately HK$44.2 million in FY 2024. The gross profit margin increased to approximately 37.5% in FY 2025. This is mainly due to increase in revenue from sewage and reclaimed water treatment services, which contributed higher gross profit margin during FY 2025.
CONTRACT COSTS
The Group’s contract costs primarily consisted of subcontracting costs, material costs, direct staff costs and site overheads. The contract costs of the Group in FY 2025 were approximately HK$8,086.0 million, representing an increase of 41.5% compared to approximately HK$5,712.8 million in FY 2024, which was in line with increase in revenue, and was mainly attributable to the increase in subcontracting costs, material costs, direct staff costs and site over heads for new and existing projects in FY 2025.
TECHNOLOGICAL INNOVATION
During FY 2025, the Group placed significant emphasis on technological innovation to enhance its core competitiveness in the construction industry. The total expenditure for research and development was approximately HK$23.3 million.
The Group continued to implement its enhanced Smart Site Safety System (4S), reinforcing our safety management framework and maintain our ISO 27001 certification. The Group has also integrated a range of digital solutions – including BIM, 4S, RPA, and the MaiaAI System – into project management and daily operation, significantly improving both efficiency and safety standards. The Group’s AI Tower Crane System received with 2025 CIC Construction Innovation Award – Local Award (Construction Safety 2nd Prize).
PROSPECTS
Subsequent to 31 December 2025, the Group has been further awarded 3 new projects relating to 1 building construction works contracts with original contract sum of approximately HK$3,590 million; and 2 RMAA works contract with an aggregate original contract sum of approximately HK$9.3 million.
The proactive measures outlined in 2025 Policy Address to accelerate infrastructure and stimulate industry growth present a significantly positive outlook for the local construction sector.
The commitment to major projects such as the Northern Metropolis, the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park, and new transportation infrastructure is expected to generate substantial momentum for the Group’s business.
The Group will actively support and leverage government initiatives. We will remain focused on securing new and profitable project opportunities. Building on our proven expertise, the Group is strategically positioned to explore and pursue suitable construction business ventures both in Hong Kong and overseas.
Hashtag: #CRConstruction #華營建築 #AnnualResults
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
CR Construction Group Holdings Limited, which is carrying out construction business for over 55 years locally, is one of the leading building contractors in Hong Kong. The Group principally act as a main contractor in building construction works and RMAA works projects across public and private sectors in Hong Kong. As a main contractor, the Group is responsible for (i) overall management of the projects; (ii) formulating work programmes; (iii) engaging subcontractors and supervising their works; (iv) sourcing construction materials; (v) communication and coordination with the customers and their consultant teams; and (vi) safeguarding compliance with safety, environmental and other contractual requirements.
The meeting highlighted the role of LuLu Group International, which operates more than 280 hypermarkets across the Gulf Cooperation Council, in maintaining steady flows of essential commodities including rice, wheat, pulses, fruits and vegetables. Officials familiar with the interaction indicated that the discussion centred on logistics efficiency, pricing stability and the need to safeguard uninterrupted shipments during periods of geopolitical and climate-related uncertainty.
Yusuff Ali is understood to have outlined how the group has expanded sourcing networks and strengthened warehousing capacity to manage demand across markets such as United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman and Kuwait. These countries rely significantly on imports to meet domestic consumption needs, making supply chain continuity a strategic concern for both governments and private sector operators.
India remains a major exporter of food products to the Gulf, with staples such as basmati and non-basmati rice forming a substantial share of shipments. Fresh produce, seafood and processed foods have also seen sustained demand as expatriate populations grow and consumption patterns diversify. Trade data over the past year has shown that food exports to GCC markets have held steady despite fluctuations in global commodity prices and shipping costs.
The discussion comes against a backdrop of tighter export controls imposed at various points to stabilise domestic food prices. Authorities have intermittently restricted shipments of certain grains, including rice varieties, prompting concerns among importing nations about supply reliability. Industry participants say large retailers with integrated supply chains, such as LuLu, have been better positioned to absorb shocks by diversifying sourcing and building buffer stocks.
Government officials have emphasised that export policies are calibrated to balance domestic needs with international commitments. During the interaction, Modi is said to have reiterated the importance of maintaining India’s reputation as a dependable supplier while ensuring affordability within the domestic market. The approach reflects a broader strategy of using trade diplomacy to reinforce economic ties with key regions.
LuLu Group’s operations have evolved beyond retail into food processing, logistics and distribution, enabling it to play a pivotal role in linking producers in India with consumers across the Gulf. The company sources directly from farms and cooperatives, reducing intermediaries and allowing for more competitive pricing. This model has gained traction as governments encourage greater efficiency in food supply chains.
Analysts note that Gulf countries have been investing in food security initiatives, including overseas farmland acquisitions, strategic reserves and partnerships with large distributors. Retailers such as LuLu have become central to these efforts, providing the infrastructure needed to manage large-scale imports and ensure consistent availability at the consumer level.
Yusuff Ali has previously highlighted the importance of long-term partnerships between exporters and retailers in stabilising supply. The group has expanded procurement centres across multiple states, enabling it to source a wide range of products while maintaining quality standards required by Gulf markets. Investments in cold chain logistics have also helped reduce wastage and improve delivery timelines.
The meeting also touched on opportunities to enhance bilateral trade flows through digitalisation and improved port connectivity. Industry experts argue that reducing transit times and streamlining customs procedures could further strengthen supply chains, particularly for perishable goods. With global shipping routes facing periodic disruptions, efficiency gains at origin and destination ports have become increasingly critical.
India’s engagement with the GCC has deepened across sectors, with food trade forming a key pillar of economic cooperation. The region accounts for a significant share of India’s agricultural exports, while remittances and energy imports reinforce the interdependence between the two sides. Strengthening food supply mechanisms is seen as part of a broader effort to secure mutual economic interests.
