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Marvel at the Whimsical Gallop of Horses Adorned in Embroidered Artistry, Alongside an AI Fai Chun Photo Booth and Joyful New Year Rewards

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2026 – This Chinese New Year, Pacific Place and Starstreet Precinct invite you to take a joyful gallop into the Year of the Horse with ‘Whimsical Gallop’ — a celebration that blends artistry, imagination and auspicious cheer. From 5 February to 3 March 2026, the mall is transformed into a contemporary Chinese garden awash in soft, nature-inspired pink hues. Leading the way is a striking 3.5-metre-tall embroidered horse in Park Court, alongside three other beautifully adorned horses brought to life by Hong Kong embroidery atelier YLYstudio. Together, this quartet of horses brings luck and fortune to all.

Beyond the installations, the festivities continue with thoughtful and playful experiences. Create your own personalised blessings at the ‘Splendid Blessings’ AI Fai Chun Photo Booth, and enjoy ‘Galloping Joy’ New Year Shopping Rewards with festive ‘Blooming Splendour’ Lai See packets and exclusive shopping treats. The celebration culminates with lively jazz tap dance performances and a lion dance parade, bringing heritage and modern festivity together for everyone to enjoy.

A Garden Where Embroidery Meets Imagination

Across the mall and into Starstreet Precinct, visitors are immersed in a fantastical Chinese landscape of embroidered ornaments, blooming florals, lanterns and gazebos. YLYstudio dedicated over 1,000 hours to handcrafting more than 590 ornaments featuring eight auspicious motifs — feathers, birds, pomegranates, coins, flowers, four-leaf clovers, ladybirds, and clouds — using over 80 types of sequins, threads, and ribbons. These motifs are showcased on the four horses, spreading good fortune while enriching the festive landscape with depth and artistry.

‘Blooming Splendour‘ Lai See Packets – Celebrate the Year of the Horse with Flourishing Flowers

The ‘Blooming Splendour’ Lai See packets are inspired by the elegance of embroidery. They feature delicate floral motifs rendered with painterly precision, blending layers of red, pink, and orange threads to create a sense of graceful movement. At the heart of the design, a sculpted floral emblem evokes abundance, beauty, and new beginnings, enriched with pearl-like accents recalling couture embroidery techniques, where beads, sequins and threads are meticulously layered.

Each set includes 10 Lai See packets in two harmonious colourways, accompanied by a velvet pouch in either soft pink, adorned with a pomegranate charm, or rich green, accented with a lucky four-leaf clover charm. These detachable embroidered charms are thoughtfully designed to be worn or styled long after the festive season, carrying the spirit of prosperity and good fortune throughout the year.

‘Galloping Joy‘ – Elevate Your Experience with Exclusive Shopping Rewards

From 5 to 16 February 2026, shoppers can enjoy festive privileges designed to usher in a prosperous year, including exclusive ‘Blooming Splendour’ Lai See packets, movie ticket exchange coupons, Pacific Place shopping e-vouchers and gourmet treats.

*Shoppers are required to join the Pacific Place Loyalty Programme – above and meet the accumulated same-day spending requirement by electronic payment during the Promotion Period in order to be entitled to redeem Shopping Rewards. The Rewards are limited in quantity and are available on a first-come, first-served basis while stocks last. Other Terms and Conditions apply.

Redemption Period: 5 – 16 February 2026
Redemption Location: Gift Redemption Counter, Level L1 (near Theory)
Redemption Hours: 11am – 10pm

Where Hooves Move to the Rhythm

The Year of the Horse arrives in a dance of joy. Step Out Studio and fellow tap dancers will be tapping out the heartbeat of the season, their rhythms galloping alongside the soaring notes of Jazz Band led by Nate Wong. Together, they will conjure a celebration where artistry and vitality run free. After the lions are awakened in an eye‑dotting ritual, our lion dance parade will unfurl like a living tapestry of tradition — spreading fortune, unity and exuberance throughout the mall, and inviting everyone to stride boldly into the year ahead.

Join the ‘Whimsical Gallop’at Pacific Place and Starstreet Precinct this Chinese New Year — where embroidered artistry, festive celebrations, and joyful rewards come together to welcome a year filled with good fortune and blooming possibilities.

Hashtag: #WhimsicalGallop #HorseInBloom #GallopingJoyAtPP

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

About YLYstudio

YLYstudio is a Hong Kong-based embroidery atelier celebrated for blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. Founded by Lilian Tsang Lai Yu and Matt Hui Yip Long, the studio brings decades of global fashion experience and artistry to every creation.

Lilian Tsang previously served as chief designer for a Hong Kong fashion label and honed her craft at LECOLE LESAGE, the prestigious haute couture embroidery school owned by the Chanel Group in Paris. She also interned at Elisabeth Gasbarre Rousseau Haute Couture Studio in Lyon, France. With a deep passion for teaching, Lilian now shares her embroidery expertise in Hong Kong, inspiring a new generation of artisans.

Matt Hui is a Hong Kong-based fashion designer graduated from the Royal College of Art in 2013. Passionate about the creative process and fine workmanship, he has collaborated on stage costumes for renowned singers including Panther Chan and Bondy Chiu. Since 2024, Matt has also ventured into the film industry as a custom tailor, contributing to international productions such as Ballad of a Small Player and Emmanuelle.

About Pacific Place

Located in the heart of Admiralty, Pacific Place is the destination for exceptional service and unique experiences. As a pioneer of innovative retail concepts in Hong Kong, Pacific Place continues to transform the retail scene by delighting visitors with an array of curated experiences through diversified offerings. Since its inception in 1988, Pacific Place has established itself as Hong Kong’s premier lifestyle hub, a mixed-use development that continues to evolve and grow as the ultimate destination to shop, dine, work, stay, relax and play. It houses one of Hong Kong’s largest collections of luxury brands and diverse dining offerings, making every visit a memorable one. In addition to being a prime transportation hub, Pacific Place is home to five Grade-A office towers, 268 serviced apartments, and four five-star hotels: The Conrad, Island Shangri-La, JW Marriott and Upper House Hong Kong.

About Starstreet Precinct

Starstreet Precinct is a vibrant destination in Wan Chai, comprised mainly of Wing Fung Street, Star Street, Moon Street, Sun Street, and St. Francis Yard. Over the years, the neighbourhood has evolved from a quaint, historic landmark, into an eclectic hangout hotspot for those with a unique sense of style and character. Filled with cosy cafés, restaurants, bars, boutique shops with the most coveted fashion selections, galleries and interior design stores, the precinct offers an array of day-to-night experiences. With a focus on community and a passion to foster a sustainable lifestyle for all, Starstreet Precinct and its tenants are collectively working to build a better future together. Connected to Pacific Place and Admiralty station through the Three Pacific Place underground link, the neighbourhood is a hidden gem in the heart of Hong Kong.

The findings, based on Carbyne Fitness’ customer data and an online database of personal training enquiries compiled by IFPA Singapore’s personal trainers, point to two fundamentally different approaches to exercise motivation and engagement between men and women.

A Tale of Two Fitness Journeys
The data suggests that men overwhelmingly prefer self-directed fitness, buying equipment such as adjustable dumbbells, benches, and racks for home use. Women, on the other hand, are more inclined toward guided training experiences led by certified professionals.

According to Brian Chang, founder of Carbyne Fitness and IFPA Singapore, this split reveals not just gender preferences, but deeper social and psychological factors shaping how Singaporeans exercise.

“Men often see fitness as something they should be able to handle on their own, like asking for help somehow means they’re not strong enough,” said Chang. “That’s why many men would rather train themselves than work with a coach. Ladies, on the other hand, are usually more open to learning and getting guidance. They see working with a coach not as weakness, but as a smart way to improve safely and effectively.”

The Male Home Gym Boom
The pandemic sparked a surge in home gym investments, and Carbyne Fitness has been at the forefront of this trend. Its adjustable dumbbells and adjustable kettlebells have become popular among working professionals looking to save time and train efficiently at home.

Carbyne Fitness’ customer data revealed that four in five customers are male. “The home gym trend among men is here to stay,” Chang explained. “They appreciate the convenience, privacy, and long-term savings. For many, it’s not just fitness equipment, it’s a personal investment in staying strong and independent as they age.”

However, with about 58% of Carbyne Fitness customers living in HDB flats, 26% in condominiums, and 16% in landed properties, many still hold the misconception that home workouts, especially in smaller HDB or condo spaces, aren’t practical or effective. Landed property owners make up less than 5% of Singapore’s dwellings, yet account for 16% of Carbyne Fitness’ customers.

“One of the most common reasons people give for not buying home gym equipment is that they ‘don’t have the space,'” said Chang. “But in reality, a proper home setup doesn’t need much room; a good pair of adjustable dumbbells and a bench can fit comfortably within just one square meter if you choose the right equipment.”

Why Women Seek Trainers
In contrast, IFPA Singapore’s training enquiries show that a majority of personal training clients are female. Of the 392 Singapore-based individuals who sought personal training, 63% were women, even though men still represent the majority of gym members nationwide.

“This reflects a growing confidence among women to take charge of their fitness journey,” said Chang. “But it also shows that women tend to prioritize safety and proper form. They are more willing to invest in expert guidance rather than risk injury from unguided workouts.”

Many female clients, Chang adds, have goals that extend beyond appearance: postnatal recovery, strength for caregiving, or functional fitness for daily life.

“It’s not just about aesthetics anymore,” he said. “Women are recognizing that strength training builds long-term resilience, both physically and mentally.”

Implications for Singapore’s Fitness Industry
The gender divide uncovered by Carbyne Fitness and IFPA Singapore also points to structural gaps in how Singapore’s fitness ecosystem is organized, particularly the limited avenues for personal trainers to operate independently.

Most commercial gyms and public facilities, including ActiveSG gyms, do not permit outside personal trainers to conduct sessions within their premises. Trainers who are not employed directly by these gyms are often barred from coaching clients on-site, regardless of their certification or insurance coverage.

This restriction limits both consumer choice and career opportunities within the industry. For clients, especially women who prefer guided training but may not want to commit to an expensive gym membership, the policy creates a barrier to accessing affordable, flexible coaching. For freelance trainers, it restricts their ability to build a sustainable practice or serve niche communities such as seniors, postnatal women, or first-time exercisers.

“Many independent trainers tell us their biggest challenge isn’t finding clients; it’s finding space,” said Chang. “There’s a clear demand for affordable, accessible training environments, but the system hasn’t caught up yet.”

As a result, more trainers have turned to parks, void decks, or private studios, and a growing number of clients are exploring home-based personal training, sometimes with only a pair of resistance bands. This shift reflects broader lifestyle preferences: Singaporeans want convenience, privacy, and trust, not just a gym membership.

The study suggests that expanding access to personal training across shared and public fitness spaces could help Singapore move toward a more inclusive, community-driven fitness culture, one that empowers both male and female participants to train safely, confidently, and sustainably at every stage of life.

Volunteering for the Silver Generation
Both Carbyne Fitness and IFPA Singapore are working to build a more inclusive fitness culture through the Silver Strength volunteer program, which runs weekly strength sessions for seniors using resistance bands, adjustable dumbbells, and other small equipment at Active Ageing Centers across Singapore.

The initiative, funded by the National Youth Council, empowers older adults to stay strong, mobile, and independent, while giving volunteers the chance to make a direct impact in their communities.

“Silver Strength is more than fitness. It is about bridging intergenerational gaps and helping seniors live confidently and age with strength,” said Chang.

To sign up as a volunteer, visit getcertifiedpt.com/silver-strength.

About the Study
The gender distribution insights were derived from:

• Carbyne Fitness customer data, representing over 1,000 unique customer interactions across Singapore between January 2024 and September 2025.
• IFPA Singapore’s independent observation of 392 prospective client profiles compiled between October 2025 and December 2025.

While the sample sizes differ, both data sets converge on a clear narrative: Singapore’s home gym market is predominantly male, while personal training demand is female-driven.

The full research can be accessed on https://carbyne.sg/blogs/articles/revealing-the-gender-gap-between-personal-training-and-home-gyms.
Hashtag: #CarbyneFitness

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

About Carbyne Fitness

Carbyne Fitness is a Singapore-based fitness equipment company focused on delivering space-efficient, performance-driven home gym solutions for modern lifestyles. Best known for its space-saving gym equipment such as adjustable dumbbells and foldable treadmills, Carbyne helps professionals, families, and seniors train effectively at home without compromising on quality or safety.

Learn more at: https://carbyne.sg

About IFPA Singapore

IFPA Singapore, operated by Get Certified PT, is the official Singapore operator of the International Fitness Professionals Association (IFPA), delivering internationally accredited personal training education and professional development. IFPA Singapore focuses on producing industry-ready practitioners through competency-based, real-world training.

Learn more at: https://getcertifiedpt.com

Joker Xue is widely regarded as one of the most influential artists within the Mandopop industry. Known for his emotionally driven songwriting and distinctive vocal style, Xue has released multiple chart-topping albums and consistently sold out large-scale tours across Asia. In recent years, he has maintained active engagement with fans through concerts and social media platforms, reinforcing his reputation as a leading voice in contemporary Chinese pop music.

Meticulously crafted to capture his signature style, the figure features a casual yet instantly recognisable look – complete with his trademark glasses, a relaxed white T-shirt, and a playful pointing pose that reflects his charismatic stage presence. During the Lunar New Year period, fans to Madame Tussauds Singapore will be able to get up close with this lifelike figure as if he were standing right before and enjoy an immersive experience that blends pop culture with festive celebration.

“We hope Joker Xue’s wax figure brings an added sense of excitement and festive cheer to our Lunar New Year celebrations,” said Steven Chung, General Manager of Madame Tussauds Singapore. “The Lunar New Year is a special time for joy, reunion, and fresh beginnings, and we look forward to welcoming guests to celebrate the season with us in a fun, immersive, and meaningful way.”

The time-limited festive activities include:

Madame Tussauds Singapore continues to be a platform where fans can connect with global icons through unique, real-life experiences, blending entertainment, storytelling, and celebrity culture.

Join us this festive season to celebrate the Lunar New Year with Joker Xue and other international celebrities, and start the year with joy, luck, and unforgettable memories.

For more information about booking tickets to visit Joker Xue at Madame Tussauds Singapore, please visit www.madametussauds.com/singapore/
Hashtag: #MerlinEntertainments #MadameTussaudsSingapore

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

Madame Tussauds Singapore

Madame Tussauds has been inviting people to walk the red carpet and get closer to the revered – and feared – for over 250 years. With 22 attractions in the world’s top destination cities, we are dedicated to giving millions of visitors the opportunity to mingle with the mighty from A-listers to music legends, heroes of sport, to infamous world leaders. Today, we continue to partner with the global icons of a generation to create astonishing lifelike figures from sittings and offer exciting and interactive experiences to ensure guests have never felt closer to fame.

About Merlin Entertainments
Merlin Entertainments is a world leader in branded entertainment destinations, offering a diverse portfolio of resort theme parks, city-centre gateway attractions and LEGOLAND Resorts which span across UK, US, Western Europe, China and Asia Pacific. Dedicated to creating experiences that inspire joy and connection, Merlin welcomes more than 62 million guests annually to its growing estate, with over 140 sites across 23 countries. An expert in bringing world-famous entertainment brands to life, Merlin works with partners including the LEGO Group, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Peppa Pig, Dreamworks and Ferrari to create destinations where guests can immerse themselves in a wide array of brand-driven worlds, rides, and uplifting learning experiences. See www.merlinentertainments.biz for more information.

From Stage to Screen: A Journey of Multi-Directional Development

Hailed as a “Hexagonal Warrior” for his all-around prowess, Tan Jianci has delivered eye-catching performances across multiple fields. In film and television, from the calm portraitist Shen Yi in “Under the Skin” to the impressive and stunning dual roles of Xiang Liu and Fangfeng Bei in “Lost You Forever,” he has won widespread acclaim for his nuanced and powerful acting. In 2025, his roles in the film “I Miss You” and the TV series “Under the Skin 2” earned him dual nominations for Best Actor at the Macau International Film Festival’s Golden Lotus Awards, making him the first actor ever to achieve simultaneous nominations in both film and television categories at the same ceremony.

Meanwhile, Tan Jianci has achieved remarkable success in music. His personal albums, such as “DREAMS” and “HUAN,” showcase his depth and diversity as a creator. His single “Bad Monalisa” not only dominated major charts but also won “Annual Chinese Digital Single” at the 2025 TMEA Awards, where he himself was awarded “Annual Best All-Round Singer.” At the end of 2025, the two lead singles, “PROOF” and “DEAD REFLEX,” from his third album rapidly topped daily charts on multiple music platforms upon release, once again proving his powerful appeal in music.

Furthermore, Tan Jianci actively shines in variety shows and the fashion world. In 2025, he graced the covers of three major mainstream women’s fashion magazines—”ELLE,” “Harper’s Bazaar,” and “Marie Claire”—becoming the first male celebrity that year to achieve covers on all three of these top five publications. Notably, the sales for his “ELLE” New Year issue broke industry records, showcasing his strong commercial value and fashion influence.

Tan Jianci Wax Figure Limited-Time Tour: An Immersive Star-Studded Experience

Tan Jianci’s wax figure now resides in the “Hong Kong Glamorous” zone. Dressed in a classic black suit, the figure’s highly accurate facial features and meticulous details showcase masterful craftsmanship, earning it the affectionate nickname “God of Unfiltered Photos” from fans. Running from 30 January to 12 April 2026, this nearly three-month exhibition allows visitors not only to take close-up photos with the figure but also to engage with interactive installations in the zone. The charm of Tan Jianci’s diverse talents across film, music, and fashion offers visitors a dreamy moment of being “in the frame with their idol” and embarking on a personalised star-studded journey.

Madame Tussauds Hong Kong warmly invites visitors to participate in the “Celebrate the New Year with Tan Jianci” engagement game. From 9 February to 23 February 2026, fans are encouraged to share their own creative photos or videos with Tan Jianci’s wax figure on social media. Participants should tag Tan Jianci and the official accounts of Madame Tussauds Hong Kong and include the hashtags #MeetMoreInTheNewYear and #MadameTussaudsHongKong.The most creative participants will have the chance to win a mystery gift. Welcome to The Peak to capture a unique interactive moment with Tan Jianci wax figure.

Exclusive New Year Surprises Unlocked: Multiple Perks for Festive Joy

In celebration of the New Year, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong is launching a variety of exclusive offers. From 13 February to 23 February 2026, all paid guests will receive a “Mystery Red Packet,” which contains a randomly selected mini card of a celebrity wax figure from Madame Tussauds Hong Kong—each card is a unique collectible. The attraction will also feature the “Year of the Horse Wishing Tree,” where visitors can write down their wishes for the new year, hoping that all their wishes will come true.

To further enhance the festive vibe, Madame Tussauds Hong Kong introduces a limited package—enjoy admission to Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, plus a VR experience and a selected beverage to elevate your immersive visit while sipping on a delightful drink. Adult package prices have been reduced from HKD 370 to just HKD 285.

Combo Ticket Details: Experience The Peak for HKD 390

Madame Tussauds Hong Kong is reintroducing Peak Tram combos (2-in-1 and 3-in-1) at attractive package prices for more surprises and value. From now on, visitors can purchase the following combo tickets at valued rates on the official website:

Visitors from around the world are invited to celebrate the New Year at Madame Tussauds Hong Kong, capturing unforgettable photos and creating cherished memories with Tan Jianci and more other star figures. Join the festivities and make this celebration special.
Hashtag: #MadameTussaudsHongKong #MeetMoreInTheNewYear

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

About Madame Tussauds

Madame Tussauds has been inviting people to walk the red carpet and get closer to the revered for over 250 years. With 17 Merlin-operated attractions in the world’s top destination cities, we are dedicated to giving millions of visitors the opportunity to mingle with the mighty from A-listers to music legends, heroes of sport, to world leaders. Today, we continue to partner with the global icons of a generation to create astonishing lifelike figures from sittings and offer exciting and interactive experiences to ensure guests have never felt closer to fame.

About Merlin Entertainments

Merlin Entertainments is a world leader in branded entertainment destinations, offering a diverse portfolio of resort theme parks, city-centre gateway attractions and LEGOLAND® Resorts which span across the UK, US, Western Europe, China and Asia Pacific. Dedicated to creating experiences that inspire joy and connection, Merlin welcomes more than 62 million guests annually to its diverse global estate in over 20 countries. An expert in bringing world-famous entertainment brands to life, Merlin works with partners including the LEGO® Group, Sony Pictures Entertainment, Peppa Pig, DreamWorks and Ferrari to create destinations where guests can immerse themselves in a wide array of brand-driven worlds, rides and uplifting learning experiences.

See www.merlinentertainments.biz for more information.

The event was officiated by Prof. Timothy TONG, Chairman of the Research Grants Council (RGC); Mr Osher GILINSKY, Vice President for Asia Pacific, Academia and Government, Clarivate; and Prof. Christopher CHAO, Senior Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU, who delivered opening remarks.

Celebrating PolyU’s exceptional research achievements and their far-reaching impacts on society, the Nation and the world, Prof. Tong stated, “The PolyU Research Excellence Report vividly demonstrates its commitment to sustainable development, reflecting the dedication and innovation of its faculty, researchers and students.” Prof. Tong commended PolyU for its effective use of research resources, noting the significant advancements in AI-driven medical breakthroughs, climate solutions and sustainability. He further emphasised the RGC’s ongoing commitment to supporting research that addresses major societal challenges, exemplified by initiatives such as the Research Impact Fund. Additionally, he reaffirmed the RGC’s partnership with universities in strengthening Hong Kong’s status as a global knowledge hub.

Recognising PolyU’s outstanding global research performance, Mr Gilinsky elaborated, “In recent years, PolyU has demonstrated high research productivity in high quality, driving for high impact for the society. PolyU was granted 1,020 patents between 2020 and 2024, the second highest among UGC-funded universities. To enhance research translation, PolyU has formed partnerships with companies including NVIDIA, Huawei and Alibaba. These achievements illustrate PolyU’s international connectivity, diverse disciplinary strengths and strong culture of research translation. Leveraging its strength with the Chinese Mainland resources, PolyU is also accelerating knowledge transfer and identifying emerging areas for discovery, particularly in AI-powered healthcare, sustainable engineering, advanced manufacturing and smart city development—fields where it aims for global leadership.”

Prof. Chao emphasised, “The report is a testament to years of dedicated effort, groundbreaking innovation and the unwavering commitment of the PolyU academic community. In 2025, we are proud to have 21 PolyU scholars named Highly Cited Researchers by Clarivate, while 428 rank among Stanford University’s World’s Top 2% Most-cited Scientists—placing PolyU second among Hong Kong tertiary institutions. Our Strategic Plan 2025/26 – 2030/31, themed ‘Unite to Meet Challenges, Innovate to Benefit Society,’ will further empower PolyU to deliver even more transformative contributions to society.”

Clarivate has been forging continuous collaborations with numerous institutions, including co-authoring the report series The impact of research undertaken by universities in Hong Kong with UGC in 2022. Produced by Clarivate using authoritative data from the Web of Science, the PolyU Research Excellence Report delivers a comprehensive assessment of the University’s overall research performance and achievements, highlighting PolyU’s global leadership in engineering, advancements in powering medical research with emerging AI technologies, and unique contributions to the hospitality, fashion and textile, design and art disciplines that distinguish the University on the global stage.

PolyU’s strengths are exemplified by its leadership in Hong Kong’s research output growth, achieving the highest number of publications among UGC‑funded universities in 2024. Nearly 40% of its outputs are internationally co-authored, while 27% involve QS Top 50 university partners. The quality and impact of the University’s research output are further evidenced by its strong disciplinary performance. In the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, seven PolyU disciplines rank in the global Top 30, while, overall, 26 disciplines are listed among the world’s Top 100, underscoring the breadth and depth of the University’s academic excellence across multiple fields.

Following the report launch, the Impact Forum featured a high-level panel discussion on “Innovations and Challenges in Research Evaluation”. The discussion facilitated insightful exchanges between the panel and attendees on evolving approaches to research assessment, the importance of measuring societal impact and strategies for fostering cross-institutional collaboration.

Hashtag: #PolyU #Clarivate #ResearchOutput #AIMedical #Engineering #HongKong

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

By K Raveendran Gold pushing decisively past the $5,000-a-troy-ounce threshold at the same moment the US dollar slides to a four-month low is not just a dramatic coincidence of charts. It marks a psychological rupture in global markets, challenging assumptions that have underpinned portfolio construction and macroeconomic thinking for decades. What once belonged to the […]

The article When Gold Breaks Five Thousand And Dollar Blinks appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

Bringing together local and overseas innovation talents and leaders to deepen cross-border, cross-campus collaboration

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 January 2026 – Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP), together with 15 local tertiary institutions, marked a major milestone as Hong Kong Techathon+, the city’s largest international intercollegiate innovation and technology (I&T) annual event, celebrated its 10th anniversary. The Hong Kong Techathon+ Finale was successfully held recently (on 24 January) at Hong Kong Science Park. The team “Cresento” from The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology won the Gold Award in the category of Trusted AI and Data Science under the Local Track (Open Group) as well as the Best Presentation Award voted by the audience.

In parallel, the Global University Innovation Network (GUIN), jointly established by HKSTP and its 15 local tertiary institution partners, convened its inaugural forum on 23 January. The forum brought together GUIN member representatives and academic I&T leaders for in-depth exchanges on innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem development, further strengthening Hong Kong’s position as an international I&T and talent hub.

Hong Kong Techathon+ is co-organised by HKSTP and 15 local tertiary institutions, including: City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong Shue Yan University, Lingnan University, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, The Education University of Hong Kong, The Hang Seng University of Hong Kong, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, The University of Hong Kong, Tung Wah College; and three institutions under the Vocational Training Council – The Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Institute of Vocational Education, and Hong Kong Institute of Information Technology.

Record-high International Participation Highlights Hong Kong’s Role as a Hub for Talent, Markets and Opportunity

This year’s Techathon+ attracted enthusiastic participation from both local and overseas universities, Approximately 1,900 participants formed over 470 teams. Notably, 215 overseas teams joined, underscoring the event’s growing international appeal.

Following rigorous selection, 172 teams advanced to the finale, including 122 local teams and 50 overseas teams from Australia, Brazil, Chinese Mainland, Japan, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Portugal, Singapore, the Republic of Korea, Taiwan, the UK, and the US. Kazakhstan, Japan, Korea and the UK participated for the first time through their university representatives, further demonstrating Techathon+’s reach as an international platform for I&T exchange.

A Decade of Growth: From a Local Challenge to One of Asia’s Major Inter-University I&T Platforms

HKSTP Chief Executive Officer Mr Terry Wong said: “Since its launch in 2015, Hong Kong Techathon+ has grown from a local challenge to one of Asia’s largest intercollegiate I&T events — driving creativity and collaboration while creating international impact. Techathon+ brings together outstanding young talents across tertiary institutions, turning ideas into innovative solutions that respond to societal needs and carry strong potential for real-world application. The platform has expanded the global pipeline of innovators and entrepreneurs, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as a hub connecting talents, markets, and opportunities, and writing the next chapter of Hong Kong’s I&T story.”

Beyond a Competition: A Comprehensive “Soft-landing” platform for Entrepreneurship

Hong Kong Techathon+ is more than a university innovation competition. Over the past decade, the platform has engaged over 9,000 participants, nurturing innovative talents and supporting the growth of startups.

Non-local teams also participated in a four-day immersive programme, featuring I&T ecosystem seminars, mentorship, investor matching, visits at Hong Kong Science Park, and tours to Chinese Mainland I&T bases, helping participants explore market expansion opportunities across the Greater Bay Area.

HKSTP also invites selected high-potential finalist teams and winners to join its Ideation Programme, offering up to HK$100,000 in seed funding (along with support aligned with participating universities’ startup programmes), free co-working spaces, access to advanced technology resources and professional mentorship. Through HKSTP’s incubation and industry networks, teams are supported from prototype development to sustainable startups operations – scaling progressively and building international impact.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the exclusive Technology Enabler for the 10^th Edition of Hong Kong Techathon+, providing participating startups with access to leading cloud and artificial intelligence technologies and platforms. Through this collaboration, AWS offered competing teams technology resources in generative AI and machine learning, professional technical support, and workshop to accelerate innovation and drive Hong Kong’s development as an international I&T hub.

Inaugural GUIN Forum: Deepening Global University Innovation Collaboration

The first Global University Innovation Network (GUIN) Forum was successfully held on 23 January at Hong Kong Science Park, bringing together GUIN member institution representatives and I&T experts. The forum focused on three key areas:

• Exploring strategies for university-industry technology transfer collaboration to achieve win-win innovation outcomes
• Examining the Greater Bay Area as a hub for international innovation collaboration, including opportunities for research commercialisation and cross-border partnership, and
• Strengthening global collaboration networks through actionable pathways.

Speakers included Dr Tony Raven, former CEO of Cambridge Enterprise; Professor Poh Kam Wong, Emeritus Professor at National University of Singapore; and Dr Alwin Wong, Chair of the Association of Technology Transfer Professionals (ATTP), among others.

Co-founded last year by HKSTP and 15 local tertiary institution partners with support from multiple overseas institutions and partners, GUIN aims to bring together leading minds to advance international collaboration in innovation and entrepreneurship, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as a global talent and innovation hub.

In his welcome address at the forum, Mr Terry Wong, Chief Executive Officer of HKSTP remarked: “We are building GUIN into a ‘global platform for innovation exchange and incubation’ — sharing knowledge, co-creating initiatives, and connecting startups with campus incubation resources and markets worldwide to turn concepts into tangible outcomes.”

Since last summer, HKSTP and university partners have launched the Theme-based Global Incubation Programmes under GUIN with three initiatives currently underway focusing on dentistry, visual technology, and the circular economy. The inaugural ” Global Hub for Future Dentistry” programme has attracted 40 top applicants worldwide. Additional thematic incubation programmes are in preparation, and GUIN members and partner organisations are welcomed to co-develop this expanding international collaboration.

The 10^th Edition of Hong Kong Techathon+ Partial Awards List:

Local Track (Student Group)

Local Track (Open Group)

Global Track

*Winner of Best Presentation Award voted by the audience.

Hashtag: #HKSTP

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

By K Raveendran When the Supreme Court of India struck down the electoral bond scheme introduced under the government led by Narendra Modi, it did so on the realisation that the anonymity offered by the bonds, far from curing the malaise of black money, had institutionalised it. But the alternative of electoral trusts that the […]

The article Supreme Court Alternative To Electoral Bonds Turns Out To Be More Vicious appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

The Group’s sales for the nine months ended 31 December 2025 were US$2,726 million compared to US$2,730 million for the same period in the previous financial year, a decrease of approximately US$4 million. Exchange rate movements had a favourable impact of US$40 million on the Group’s sales during the period.

Sales of Automotive Products Group (“APG”)

APG’s sales for the nine months ended 31 December 2025 were US$2,301 million, a decrease of US$14 million or 1% compared to the same period in financial year 24/25. Excluding currency effects, APG’s sales decreased by US$49 million or 2%.

The division’s sales changes by region, excluding currency effects, were as follows:

In Asia-Pacific, sales decreased by 6%, driven by pricing adjustments implemented to remain competitive and weaker demand for non-domestic car brands in China, which has historically been a strong market for APG. This was partially offset by growth in sales to domestic car brands. Sales of products for thermal management, steering and closure applications, together with oil pumps decreased, partially offset by increased sales of products for braking, vision and transmission applications.

In Europe, the Middle East and Africa (“EMEA”), sales decreased by 1%. Sales of products for closure, vision and thermal management applications decreased, mitigated by increased sales of oil pumps, powder metal components and other products for transmission applications.

In the Americas, sales increased by 1%. Sales of powder metal components, oil pumps and products for thermal management applications increased, largely offset by decreased sales of products for braking and engine and fuel management applications due to the phasing out of certain programs.

Sales of Industry Products Group (“IPG”)

IPG’s sales for the nine months ended 31 December 2025 were US$425 million, an increase of US$10 million or 2% compared to the same period in the previous financial year. Excluding currency effects, IPG’s sales increased by US$5 million or 1%. The overall performance reflects a mixed regional picture, shaped by varying market and customer dynamics.

The division’s sales changes by region, excluding currency effects, were as follows:

In Asia-Pacific, sales decreased by 1%, primarily due to significant price competition affecting both IPG and some of its customers in certain product segments. Consequently, sales of products for food and beverage, floor care and printer applications decreased. This was largely offset by increased sales for lawn and garden, medical and data centre cooling applications.

In EMEA, sales increased by 6%, driven by a combination of inventory replenishment by certain customers following their consumption of previous inventory surpluses, as well as the launch of new products. This resulted in increased sales of products for lawn and garden, and heating applications and flexible printed circuits. This was partially offset by a decrease in sales of products for beverage applications.

In the Americas, sales decreased by 2% mainly due to the combined effects of reduced demand from certain customers and some programs reaching end of life. This resulted in decreased sales of products for ventilation and surgical applications. This was partially offset by stronger sales of piezo motors and piezo motion subsystems, which benefited from strong demand for high-precision equipment for semiconductor manufacturing and medical drug-dosing systems.

Chairman’s Comments on Sales Performance and Outlook

Commenting on the Group’s sales performance and near-term outlook, Dr. Patrick Shui-Chung Wang, Chairman and Chief Executive, said: “Johnson Electric’s sales for the financial year to date have remained stable, reflecting generally subdued macroeconomic conditions and high levels of uncertainty related to geopolitics and US trade policies. Based on current trading conditions and customer orders, full-year Group sales are expected to be broadly similar to the prior year. In this environment, Johnson Electric remains focused on executing its strategy to deliver long-term value through innovation, operational excellence, and a resilient global supply chain.”

Cautionary Statement

Shareholders and potential investors in the Company are reminded that the information provided in this news release, including information related to the expected outlook for the full year, is based on the Group’s unaudited internal records and management accounts. This information has not been reviewed or audited by the Company’s auditors.

Shareholders and potential investors should exercise caution when dealing or investing in the shares of the Company.

Hashtag: #JohnsonElectric

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

About Johnson Electric Group

The Johnson Electric Group is a global leader in electric motors, actuators, motion subsystems and related electro-mechanical components. It serves a broad range of industries including Automotive, Liquid Cooling, Robotic Joints, Smart Metering, Business Equipment, Ventilation, Home Automation, Large Appliances, Power Tools, Medical Devices and Lawn & Garden Equipment. The Group is headquartered in Hong Kong and employs over 30,000 individuals in over 20 countries worldwide. Johnson Electric Holdings Limited is listed on The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (Stock Code: 179). For further information, please visit: www.johnsonelectric.com.

By Nitya Chakraborty 2025 was the year of the maverick U.S. President Donald Trump. The developments during the year beginning January 20 evolved around Trump. He was the key decision-maker, irrespective of what other countries leaders felt. He cared little for the United Nations, WTO, WHO and all other multilateral bodies. He openly said ‘I […]

The article 2025 Was Donald Trump’s Year But 2026 Is Going To Be The Year With Xi Jinping’s Domination appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

New targets outlined for 2030 following the successful conclusion of the 25×25 sustainability targets

HONG KONG SAR and SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 January 2026 – Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK stock code: 00101) (“Hang Lung” or the “Company”) today announces a new phase in its sustainability journey, unveiling 20 refreshed 2030 targets that build on its success in achieving its 25 x 25 Sustainability Targets.

Launched in 2021, the 25 x 25 targets defined Hang Lung’s agenda to the end of 2025 across four priorities: Climate Resilience, Resource Management, Wellbeing, and Sustainable Transactions. The Company has achieved its earlier ambitions, and exceeded targets related to greenhouse gas emissions reduction, renewable energy, and energy efficiency. Establishing such a concrete and robust set of targets also helped the Company develop practices in sustainability innovation and continual improvement.

Building on this success, now with expanded data, greater organizational maturity, and heightened ambition, Hang Lung’s refreshed 2030 targets reflect its position as an industry leader in sustainability.

The 20 targets for 2030 continue to be organized under the four priorities that define Hang Lung’s approach to sustainability, including the below highlights:

• Climate Resilience: Among the first real estate companies in Asia to have near- and long-term targets fully aligned with the Science Based Target initiative’s Buildings Criteria and its emission reduction pathway (1.5°C). Also, Hang Lung is the first real estate company in Asia to establish a Climate Value-at-Risk target.
• Resource Management: The first real estate company in Asia to formulate a target for biodiversity net gain (10%) on all new development projects and major renovations, supporting urban ecosystems and enhancing green spaces.
• Wellbeing: Generate at least HK$40 million in social value through community investments.
• Sustainable Transactions: Collaborate with tenants representing 25% of our leased floor area through our sustainability partnerships program.

Collaboration across the value chain remains central to Hang Lung’s approach, extending beyond traditional metrics. Hang Lung aims to partner with suppliers and tenants through quantifiable targets to drive progress upstream and downstream. In addition, the Company is committed to supporting innovation in standards development to facilitate impactful sustainability initiatives across sectors and jurisdictions.

Mr. Adriel Chan, Chair of Hang Lung Properties and Chair of the Sustainability Steering Committee, commented: “We are excited to embark on this next phase of our sustainability journey, reflecting Hang Lung’s growing role not just as a leader in sustainability action, but also in sustainability thought leadership. By working closely with partners across our value chain, we are confident that we can deliver on these commitments and continue to foster excellence in sustainable development in Asia.”

Mr. John Haffner, Deputy Director – Sustainability, added: “Over the past several years, we have seen how ambitious targets focus our efforts and help develop a culture of innovation. Building on our achievements and lessons learned, our 2030 targets are sharper and more data-driven, and will help us achieve greater impact in our communities.”

Full details of the 25 x 25 wrap-up and the new 2030 targets will be shared in Hang Lung’s 2025 Sustainability Report to be released in March. The report will provide further insights into the Company’s achievements, lessons learned, and emerging plans to support the refreshed 2030 targets, inviting partners and the wider public to join forces in shaping a sustainable future.

Appendix
Overview of 2030 Sustainability Goals and Targets

* Our definition of diverse background includes people with disabilities and ethnic minorities.

Hashtag: #HangLungProperties

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

About Hang Lung Properties

For more information, please visit www.hanglung.com.