The Supreme Court has urged Parliament to create distinct criminal offences for “digital arrest” scams and artificial intelligence-generated deepfakes, warning that existing laws do not adequately address technology-enabled fraud that has cost citizens about ₹54,000 crore over six years. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told a bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant that the Centre was preparing legislation covering digital arrests, deepfakes and related cyber offences. The […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai The United States launched a heavy wave of strikes against Iran early on Thursday, hitting dozens of military targets after Iranian ballistic missiles were intercepted while heading towards American forces in the Middle East. US Central Command said the two-hour operation struck Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps command centres, missile and drone installations, coastal surveillance systems, air-defence sites and maritime capabilities. The bombardment began […]
(Figures for the corresponding period in 2025 are shown in brackets)
Consolidated revenue: HK$593 million (HK$ 636 million)
Consolidated net loss attributable to equity holders of the Company: HK$189 million (HK$ 249 million)
Basic loss per share: 9.28 HK cents (12.23 HK cents)
No interim dividend (No interim dividend)
Pacific Century Premium Developments Limited (“PCPD”, SEHK: 00432) announced its interim results for the six months ended June 30, 2026.
The consolidated revenue of PCPD and its subsidiaries (together, the “Group”) amounted to HK$ 593 million, compared to HK$ 636 million for the corresponding period of 2025.
The Group’s consolidated loss attributable to equity holders of the Company for the first six months of 2026 totalled HK$ 189 million, compared to a net loss of HK$249 million for the corresponding period last year. Basic loss per share for the six months ended June 30, 2026 was 9.28 Hong Kong cents, compared to a loss per share of 12.23 Hong Kong cents for the corresponding period of 2025.
The Board of Directors did not declare an interim dividend for the first half of 2026.
For the first half of 2026, the Group delivered encouraging results as we built on our core strengths and benefited from resilient demand across the markets in which we operate. During the period, we also took steps to enhance our portfolio, including the disposals of two investment assets. These initiatives are expected to strengthen the Group’s financial position and reinforce its long-term growth.
Our operations in Japan performed well despite some moderation in tourism demand, shaped by changes in the composition of international visitors and fluctuations in travel demand. Park Hyatt Niseko, Hanazono, our hospitality business in Niseko, Hokkaido, delivered a stable performance with healthy occupancy and room rates, while our ski operations remained a key contributor to the Group’s results. Earnings from our recreational facilities, ski lifts, equipment rentals, “Hanazono EDGE” (a restaurant and entertainment centre) and Niseko International Snowsports Schoolcontinued togrow year-on-year. We will stay focused on establishing Niseko Hanazono Resort as a world-class, all-season luxury destination and remain optimistic about its long-term development.
On March 16, 2026, the Group announced the sale of its entire interest in Pacific Century Place, Jakarta (“PCP Jakarta”) in Indonesia. The transaction, at a total consideration of US$400 million, was completed on June 8, 2026. Notwithstanding the disposal, the Group will continue to provide property management services in respect of PCP Jakarta.
On February 13, 2026, the Group announced the sale of its entire interest in Midtown Niseko. The transaction, at a total consideration of US$80 million, was completed on May 31, 2026.
The Group formed a strategic alliance with Hotel Properties Limited in Singapore to bring a Four Seasons Resort and Branded Residences to Aquella, a large-scale integrated resort development in Phang Nga. The move represents a significant milestone in PCPD‘s long-term vision of transforming Aquella into an integrated resort destination that effortlessly blends luxury living, recreation and exceptional service.
Central Residence by the Park in Hong Kong was launched for sale in January 2026. As at the end of June, 90.9% of the total available units of the luxury residential project had already been sold. The project will be completed in the latter half of 2026.
Mr. Benjamin Lam, PCPD’s Deputy Chairman and Group Managing Director, said: “The first half of 2026 presented a challenging global environment, characterised by geopolitical tensions including the conflict in the Middle East, inflation, trade uncertainties and concerns over monetary policies. Despite the headwinds, global growth was relatively resilient, while international tourism in many parts of Asia continued to perform steadily. The Group’s core markets in Asia generally remained solid during the period. Tourism demand continued to support Japan and Thailand despite a slightly more measured pace of growth. Improving sentiment in Hong Kong’s property market also provided a more favourable backdrop for our luxury residential development.
In the second half of the year, we will continue to enhance the value of our existing assets while positioning the Group to capitalise on opportunities that support our long-term strategy and create value for our stakeholders.”
Hashtag: #PacificCenturyPremiumDevelopments
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About PCPD
Pacific Century Premium Developments Limited (“PCPD” or the “Group”, SEHK: 00432) is principally engaged in the development and management of premium-grade property and infrastructure projects as well as premium-grade property investments. PCCW Limited (“PCCW”, SEHK: 00008) is the single largest shareholder of the Group.
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Aldar Properties posted an 18% rise in first-half net profit after tax to AED 4.9 billion, supported by the conversion of its development backlog into revenue and stronger recurring income from its investment properties portfolio. Revenue for the six months ended June increased 8% year on year to AED 16.8 billion, while gross profit climbed 17% to AED 6.2 billion. Earnings before interest, […]
Onsite solar installation to cut FCC Philippines’ energy costs by 30% compared to grid electricity prices, supporting the automotive supply chain manufacturer’s cost competitiveness and energy resilience in Laguna.
LAGUNA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 29 July 2026 – FCC (Philippines) Corp., a subsidiary of Japan’s FCC CO., LTD. and a key global supplier to leading automotive and motorcycle brands including Honda, Yamaha, Suzuki and Kawasaki, Ford, Harley-Davidson, BMW, among others, has signed a long-term solar agreement with Peak Energy to power its clutch systems facility in Laguna with onsite renewable energy.
Sandro Bruni (Peak Energy) and Tsuyoshi Nakada (FCC Philippines Corporation) at the Signing Ceremony held on 10th of July
The system is expected to generate approximately 1,500 MWh in its first year of operation from a 1 MWp onsite solar installation, delivering electricity to FCC Philippines at a price approximately 30% lower than grid tariffs. This is expected to avoid approximately 650 tons of CO₂annually, equivalent to avoiding the consumption of almost 252,000 liters of gasoline.
Under the 15-year agreement, Peak Energy will design, finance, construct, own and operate the solar system, with FCC Philippines purchasing the electricity generated at no upfront capital cost. The structure allows FCC Philippines to access clean, competitively priced power while Peak Energy manages construction and ongoing operations and maintenance.
FCC CO., LTD. is the undisputed global leader in the motorcycle clutch market, with more than 50% global market share, and a leading supplier of automotive clutch components worldwide. The company and has manufactured in the Philippines since 1993, supplying integrated clutch systems not only to the four of the world’s four largest motorcycle OEMs, but also to other established global brands across both the two-wheel and four-wheel industries. Global automotive supply chains are under growing pressure to reduce embedded emissions, and the agreement gives FCC Philippines a concrete way to strengthen its competitiveness within that supply chain.
The agreement builds on Peak Energy’s track record with Japanese-parented manufacturers across the region, including JTEKT (Toyota Group) in Japan, AICA in Thailand and Yokogawa in Singapore. FCC Philippines’ decision to choose Peak Energy reflects the same standard of engineering excellence and delivery experience that has earned these manufacturers’ trust, technical rigor, disciplined project execution and a track record of on-time, on-budget delivery that meets the exacting quality expectations Japanese corporates apply to their partners across Asia.
As industrial demand for lower-cost, predictable power grows, the Philippine market is naturally redirecting capacity toward developers with the financial strength, engineering capability and technology to execute and operate assets credibly at scale, supported by a Department of Energy target of 35% renewable energy share by 2030.
“Industrial buyers in the Philippines are increasingly looking for power that’s cheaper than the grid and shielded from imported fuel prices,” said Gavin Adda, CEO of Peak Energy. “This project delivers both, at a 30% discount to grid tariffs. We are glad to see FCC moving toward a developer with the financial strength and engineering capability to deliver at scale.”
“This solar project represents an important milestone in FCC’s journey toward a more sustainable future,” said Tsuyoshi Nakada, President of FCC (Philippines) Corp. “As part of the FCC CO., LTD., Group’s commitment to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, with a 50% reduction in carbon emissions by 2030, we continue to invest in initiatives that reduce our environmental footprint while strengthening the resilience of our operations. We are pleased to partner with Peak Energy in advancing these shared sustainability goals.” Hashtag: #Japan #Automotive #Irarwar #Iran #Philippines #redalert #energy #energycosts #Scope2 #sustainability
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Peak Energy
Headquartered in Singapore, Peak Energy develops, owns, and operates renewable assets across Asia Pacific (APAC). With over 300 MW of operating assets and 2 GW worth of projects in development, Peak Energy is the fastest growing renewable energy developer with a portfolio spanning Japan, Korea, Australia, Taiwan, the Philippines, Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia. With activities encompassing the full range of renewable energy business models – including utility-scale development, off-site PPAs, onsite PPAs, and energy storage applications – Peak Energy is a one-stop partner for corporates seeking to decarbonize their operations in APAC. We believe in establishing long-term partnerships with our corporate customers, to accompany them in their decarbonization journey, through cleaner, cheaper energy.
An experienced team handles the complete life cycle of our energy assets from origination and development through to operations and decommissioning, employing state-of-the art technology and the industry best practices, respectful of the environment and following world-class HSE standards.
Our business practices, technological and HSE standards are standardized across APAC, but we are implemented and operate locally, with teams in seven countries, and lasting partnerships with local customers, EPCs, vendors, channel partners.
Peak Energy is wholly owned by Stonepeak, a leading alternative investment firm specializing in infrastructure and real assets with approximatively USD 88 billion of assets under management. Our financial and technical strength coupled with our relationships in local markets allows us to optimize our capital deployment in high quality assets.
Established in 1993 at Laguna Technopark in Biñan City, Laguna, FCC (Philippines) Corp. is a subsidiary of Japan’s FCC CO., LTD., a global leader in automotive and motorcycle clutch systems. The company manufactures and assembles clutch engine components for leading global automotive and motorcycle brands and has a workforce of more than 600 personnel at its Laguna facility. As part of its commitment to sustainable growth, FCC CO., LTD., continues to strengthen its core clutch business while expanding into electrification-related technologies by leveraging its core expertise in die casting, press, and joining technologies to support the evolving mobility industry.
The following announcement was issued today to a Regulatory Information Service approved by the Financial Conduct Authority in the United Kingdom.
DFI RETAIL GROUP HOLDINGS LIMITED
HALF-YEAR RESULTS FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 JUNE 2026
Highlights
Underlying profit from continuing businesses1 grew 44% to US$117 million
Reported profit was US$118 million, compared to a US$38 million loss in the prior year period
Like-for-like (LFL) subsidiary sales growth from continuing businesses2 improved to 3%
Health & Beauty sustained strong LFL sales; Convenience and Home Furnishings returned to growth
E-commerce and DFIQ Media contributed to approximately 35% of sales growth
Return on capital employed improved to 12%, up from 9% as of December 2025
Interim dividend of US¢6.20 per share, up 77% year-on-year. Maintain full-year dividend payout of 70%
Raised full-year organic revenue3 growth guidance to be between 3.0% and 4.0%, and underlying profit to be between US$285 million and US$305 million
Announced 100% interest acquisition of Cody Hong Kong (Cody HK), one of the leading outdoor advertising solution providers in Hong Kong
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 July 2026 – “Our first-half performance, with underlying profit1 growth of 44% and a consistently improving LFL subsidiary sales trend, reflects the strength of our strategy in action – a sharper value for customers, a strong focus on returns and execution with discipline. This was supported by sustained momentum in Health & Beauty, as well as strong recovery in Convenience and Home Furnishings segments. Our acquisition of Cody HK’s extensive outdoor media portfolio, together with its experienced leadership team, strengthens our capability to deliver full-funnel, omnichannel advertising solutions while accelerating the growth of DFIQ Media. As we continue to deepen customer engagement and build new profit pools through the DFI Omni Platform, we are well-positioned to deliver sustainable long-term value with greater earnings resilience.”
Scott Price
Group Chief Executive
DFI RETAIL GROUP HOLDINGS LIMITED
HALF-YEAR RESULTS FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED 30 JUNE 2026
OVERVIEW
The Group delivered strong performance in an evolving macroeconomic climate, underpinned by disciplined execution and a focus on driving higher returns. A portfolio built on everyday essentials, combined with a strong value proposition with convenience, continues to resonate with customers against the backdrop of oil price volatility. For the first half of 2026, subsidiary LFL sales growth from continuing businesses4 further improved to 3%. This was driven by sustained strong momentum in the Health & Beauty segment, as well as a return to growth in both the Convenience and Home Furnishings businesses. Price reinvestment, supported by a reset in sourcing strategy, drove Food volume growth with Wellcome’s basket price now trading at a discount relative to the Greater Bay Area5, compared to a premium in the prior year.
The Group’s commitment to retail excellence, a lean overhead structure and expanded omnichannel touchpoints enables us to serve our customers with better pricing and better experience. The DFI Omni Platform further strengthens this by seamlessly integrating our extensive store network with digital capabilities, delivering greater convenience and personalisation while unlocking new value pools through rich, cross-format data insights. Developing and scaling high-margin revenue streams, including retail media (DFIQ Media) and insights monetisation (DFIQ Insights), will diversify our profit base and support long-term value creation.
To enhance operational efficiency and improve productivity of team members, the Group introduced GenAI-powered tools in the first half of 2026, with plans to scale deployment across operating markets in the coming months. In parallel, AI capabilities are increasingly embedded across core retail functions, including assortment optimisation, promotion planning and demand forecasting, to drive better, more data-driven decisions.
The Group undertook a thorough review of the cost structure with the aim of driving sustainable savings and improving long-term cost efficiency. This has led to a reallocation of resources and costs toward format-level operations, driving greater agility and responsiveness to evolving market conditions, while continuing to reduce central selling, general and administrative (SG&A) costs through overhead optimisation. Combined with improving digital economics, underlying operating profit from continuing businesses6 grew 14% year-on-year in the first half of 2026. Improved operating performance and lower financing costs contributed to an 11% increase in underlying profit attributable to shareholders, or 44% from continuing businesses7 only.
The Group maintained a healthy balance sheet with a net debt position of US$22 million as of 30 June 2026. Return on capital employed further improved to 12%, up from 9% as of December 2025.
The Group declared an interim dividend of US¢6.20 per share, representing a significant increase of 77% compared to the same period last year. This enhanced interim dividend distribution underscored the Board’s confidence in the Group’s underlying business momentum and strong cash flow generation, while ensuring sufficient capital for future growth in line with our 70% payout policy.
OPERATING PERFORMANCE
Overall For the first half of 2026, underlying subsidiary revenue from continuing businesses6 was US$4.1 billion, up 4% year-on-year and 3% on a LFL basis. The growth was driven by strong performance in the Health & Beauty division, as well as a return to growth in the Convenience and Home Furnishings segments. Total revenue, including Maxim’s, was US$5.6 billion. Excluding divestments7, total revenue increased by approximately 4%.
Overall underlying profit attributable to shareholders from continuing businesses7 grew 44% year-on-year to US$117 million, primarily driven by improved operating profit and lower financing costs.
Underlying subsidiary profit from continuing businesses6 was US$101 million, reflecting a 49% year-on-year increase, primarily driven by earnings recovery in the Home Furnishings and Food segment with lower SG&A expenses as a result of overhead reduction.
Underlying profit from associates was US$16 million, down from US$30 million in the prior comparable period, which included share of profits from Robinsons Retail ahead of its disposal. Excluding this, profit contribution from associates was up 22% year-on-year due to robust sales growth and effective cost optimisation at Maxim’s.
The Group reported operating cash flow after lease payments of US$178 million, 16% higher than the prior year period, driven by underlying operating profit growth. Free cash flow for the period was a net inflow of US$85 million, down 5% year-on-year, due to increased capex investment in priorities that will further strengthen the Group’s competitive position while driving long-term value for shareholders.
Digital Capturing a significant share of daily essential customer missions in Hong Kong, the DFI Omni Platform – powered by yuu – enables deeper customer engagement across offline and online touchpoints, maximises data capture and unlocks incremental margin opportunities beyond core retail through DFIQ Media and DFIQ Insights. Overall digital turned profitable, with e-commerce and DFIQ Media contributing to approximately 35% of total revenue growth in the first half of 2026. This was supported by improved underlying e-commerce economics, a rising online sales penetration8 to 6.9% and 3 times in DFIQ Media revenue compared to first half of 2025. As of June 2026, more than 10,000 digital media-ready screens were available across DFI outlets.
Subsidiaries Sales for the Health & Beauty division were US$1.4 billion, up 8% year-on-year from continuing businesses9, 7% in constant currency, or 6% on a LFL basis, with continued market share gains across key operating markets. Mannings and Guardian deepened their leadership as the trusted advisors for wellness through an enhanced, wellness-focused assortment and continued roll-out of skin and scalp assessment services across a wider store network. The recently announced exclusive distribution partnership with Holland & Barrett, a leading UK health and wellness retailer, will further expand customer access to trusted wellness solutions in Hong Kong and Singapore, followed by a broader rollout across selected Asia markets in the coming years. In Hong Kong and Macau, Mannings delivered 5% LFL sales growth, driven by increased basket size and robust tourist store sales amid higher visitor arrivals. In Southeast Asia, Guardian achieved strong LFL sales growth of 9%, supported by higher basket sizes and improved promotional efficiency, with Indonesia and Vietnam delivering close to 20% LFL growth. Excluding the impact of cost reallocation and closure of Mannings China offline stores, divisional profit increased moderately by 2% to US$109 million. Margin declined primarily due to increased strategic promotions to drive stronger sales and market share in Southeast Asia, particularly in Malaysia where health & beauty retailers did not benefit from the SARA Cash Aid Programme.
Total Convenience sales were US$1.2 billion, up 4% year-on-year or 2% on a LFL basis, as continued growth in higher-margin categories, including ready-to-eat (RTE) and exclusive collectibles, more than offset the decline in lower-margin cigarette volumes. Hong Kong LFL sales returned to growth in the second quarter following ten consecutive quarters of decline, supported by RTE and an expanded non-food assortment, including limited-edition collectibles and K-pop merchandise. Excluding cigarettes, LFL sales were up 3% for the period. In Singapore, effective promotional campaigns and collectible product launches drove strong LFL sales growth of 8%. In South China, continued store network expansion through a capex-light franchise model – including a net addition of 112 stores since June 2025 to nearly 1,980 locations – contributed to 12% sales growth year-on-year or 6% on constant currency basis. LFL sales were 1% higher compared to the prior year period, driven by the successful launch of Own Brand in key categories of frozen products and packaged drinks. The team remains focused on driving footfall and sales through further expansion of the RTE offering across both offline and online channels. This includes a broader rollout of the Food Bar to 453 stores as of June 2026, up from 325 at year-end 2025, and strong overall online sales growth of more than 35%. Excluding cost reallocation impact, profit for the division increased by 2% to reach US$37 million.
Reported sales for the Food division from continuing businesses10 were US$1.1 billion, up 1% year-on-year. LFL sales returned to positive growth of 0.5% in the second quarter of 2026. In Hong Kong, investment in reduced pricing on core basket items, a stronger fresh proposition, and Own Brand offering drove 2% increase in total volume and 0.5% LFL sales growth in the first half of 2026. As of June 2026, Wellcome’s “Everyday Value” range has expanded to nearly 500 items, offering savings of up to 40%, bringing its basket price down from a premium to a discount relative to the Greater Bay Area. The team also accelerated omnichannel growth with more than 35% growth in online order volume. In Cambodia, Lucky reported strong double-digit sales growth, with profit more than doubling year-on-year. The plan to open 50 new stores over the next few years remains on track. Macau Food sales remained challenging as a result of cross-border grocery shopping. Excluding the impact of cost reallocation and the divestment of Singapore Food, overall divisional profit increased by 27% year-on-year to US$17 million.
The Home Furnishings division delivered strong recovery in performance during the first half of 2026, with LFL sales growth of 4%, compared to a decline of 6% in the prior year period. Price reinvestment in core value SKUs, a stronger focus on locally relevant ranges and IKEA Food innovation drove increased footfall and items per baskets, resulting in a 3% LFL sales growth in Hong Kong and 5% in Taiwan. IKEA Food remains a critical traffic and revenue driver, accounting for 15% of total sales. In Indonesia, while offline sales momentum remained soft, LFL sales trend improved on a strengthening IKEA’s omnichannel proposition with online sales penetration reaching 24%. Sales recovery and effective cost optimisation measures contributed to 85% growth in overall divisional profit, excluding cost reallocation impact.
Associates The Group’s share of Maxim’s underlying profits was US$16 million for the first half of 2026, up 15% year-on-year, underpinned by continued cost optimisation and operational efficiency measures. Sales for the period increased by 4%, driven by strong restaurant performance in Southeast Asia and a return to growth in the Chinese mainland, partially offset by weaker sales in Hong Kong.
RECENT BUSINESS DEVELOPMENTS
On 30 June 2026, the Group announced the acquisition of 100% interest in Cody Hong Kong (Cody HK), one of the leading outdoor advertising solution providers in Hong Kong, for a cash consideration of HK$30.2 million (approximately US$3.8 million) from ARN Media Network Limited (ASX: A1N), subject to customary adjustments.
The acquisition advances DFI’s strategy to build a full-funnel advertising solution in Hong Kong through DFIQ Media. By integrating Cody HK’s strategic assets – including multi-year exclusive advertising rights with Kowloon Motor Bus (KMB) and Hong Kong Tramways (HKT) – with DFI’s extensive store network, growing online user base, and closed-loop measurement capabilities, DFIQ Media strengthens its ability to deliver high-impact advertising solutions to a broader advertiser base across online, in-store, and outdoor channels.
Subject to satisfaction of third-party consents, the transaction is expected to complete in the second half of 2026.
PEOPLE
On 6 July 2026, the Group announced four senior leadership appointments effective from 1 August 2026. These moves reflect the Group’s continued focus on strengthening its leadership pipeline and driving the next phase of growth with experienced, proven leaders.
Andrew Wong will be appointed Chief Executive Officer, DFI IKEA. Formerly CEO of Health & Beauty, Andrew brings extensive experience in driving customer-led growth, operational discipline and in-store digitalisation across multiple markets. His earlier leadership of franchise operations at Jardine Restaurant Group positions him well to lead the IKEA business into its next phase of development.
Curtis Liu, having most recently served as Chief Executive Officer of Food, will be appointed Chief Executive Officer, Health & Beauty. His proven leadership in driving customer value repositioning in Hong Kong, combined with deep operational retail knowledge and digital experience at JD.com, positions him well to drive continued momentum and omnichannel growth in Health & Beauty.
Tom van der Lee will be appointed Chief Executive Officer, Food. Tom has played an instrumental role as Group Chief Financial Officer, driving financial discipline and supporting key strategic decisions across the Group. His prior experience at FrieslandCampina, a global food company, and his broad financial leadership across DFI banners in Southeast Asia supported his strong commercial grounding to lead the Food business.
Kaizhi Wu will succeed Tom as Group Chief Financial Officer. Kaizhi currently serves as Group Finance Director, Planning & Reporting, based in Hong Kong. Prior to joining DFI, he served as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Yonghui Superstores Co., and earlier held senior roles at Jardine Matheson, Fosun Group and PwC in London. Kaizhi will join the Group’s Management Committee upon assuming his new role.
OUTLOOK
The Group remains confident in our ability to navigate the evolving trading environment, supported by sharpened business priorities, a strong balance sheet and low-cost operating model. Financial outlook outlined at the Investor Day in December 2025 remains intact as DFI continues to execute our multi-year strategic initiatives that are critical to driving sustainable revenue and earnings growth. These initiatives include strengthening our value proposition, strategically expanding store network, enhancing omnichannel capabilities and accelerating digital asset monetisation through data-driven insights. In particular, the growing DFI Omni Platform will deepen our customer engagement, further reinforce our core retail strength and enhance overall earnings resilience in the long term.
Despite an elevated oil price outlook for the remainder of the year, the Group expects to deliver stronger profitability supported by enhanced operational efficiency. As a result, the Group revises up its full-year organic revenue growth11 outlook to be between 3.0% and 4.0% (up from previously 2.0% to 3.0%), and underlying profit attributable to shareholders to be between US$285 million and US$305 million (up from previously US$270 million and US$300 million).
Scott Price Group Chief Executive
—————– 1 Excluding impacts of divestment of Singapore Food business, closure of Mannings China and disposal of minority stake of Robinsons Retail 2 Excluding impacts of divestment of Singapore Food business and closure of Mannings China 3 Excluding Singapore Food and Mannings China 4 Excluding impacts of divestment of Singapore Food business and closure of Mannings China 5 Based on a third-party assured price comparison of a 200-item comparable basket between DFI and Shenzhen 6 Excluding impacts of divestment of Singapore Food business and closure of Mannings China 7 Excluding impacts of divestment of Singapore Food business, closure of Mannings China and disposal of minority stake of Robinsons Retail 8 Excluding cigarettes under Convenience and IKEA Food 9 Excluding Mannings China 10 Excluding Singapore Food business 11 Excluding Singapore Food and Mannings China Hashtag: #DFIRetailGroup #Mannings #Guardian #7-Eleven #Wellcome #MarketPlace #IKEA #yuu #Maxim’s
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
DFI Retail Group
DFI Retail Group (the Group) is a leading Asian retailer, driven by its purpose to ‘Sustainably Serve Asia for Generations with Everyday Moments’.
At 30 June 2026, the Group and its associates operated 7,659 outlets across 12 markets, of which 5,593 stores were operated by subsidiaries. The Group, together with its associates, employed over 81,000 people, with more than 43,000 people employed by subsidiaries. The Group had reported revenue of US$8.9 billion in 2025.
The Group is committed to delivering quality, value and service to consumers across the region through trusted brands, strong local market positions, and a broad retail ecosystem supported by extensive store networks, digital capabilities and efficient supply chains.
The Group and its associates operate a portfolio of well-known brands across five key divisions. The principal brands are:
Health and Beauty
Mannings in Hong Kong and Macau S.A.R.; Guardian in Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam.
Convenience
7-Eleven in Hong Kong and Macau S.A.R., Singapore and Southern China.
Food
Wellcome and Market Place in Hong Kong S.A.R.; San Miu in Macau S.A.R.; Lucky in Cambodia.
Home Furnishings
IKEA in Hong Kong and Macau S.A.R., Indonesia and Taiwan.
Restaurants
Hong Kong Maxim’s group on the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong and Macau S.A.R., Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam.
The Group’s parent company, DFI Retail Group Holdings Limited, is incorporated in Bermuda and has a primary listing in the equity shares (transition) category of the London Stock Exchange, with secondary listings in Bermuda and Singapore. The Group’s businesses are managed from Hong Kong. DFI Retail Group is a member of the Jardine Matheson group.
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai A claim that the United States and the UAE have launched their first joint military artificial intelligence initiative under the name Task Force Talon Synapse has circulated online, but no official announcement confirming the programme could be identified. The assertion, promoted by the social media account BRICS News, described the purported project as a new bilateral defence effort. However, neither the US Department […]
We.R.Wira Season 4 Equips Youth with Industry Ready Skills Aligned with UN SDGs
SELANGOR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 July 2026 – Centriq PR, independent Malaysian public relations consultancy, marked another milestone in its commitment to purposeful communication as Season 4 of its social impact initiative, We.R.Wira, culminated in the Golden Wira Awards Ceremony at Tan Yew Sing Auditorium, INTI International College Subang.
We.R.Wira Season 4 recorded its strongest participation to date, receiving 41 submissions from four institutions. (Below stage, from left): Director of Strategic Communications, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation, Mr. Frank Chan, Managing Director, EVD Berhad, Mr. Norhizam Abdul Kadir, Head of Community Outreach & Collaborations, United Nations Association Malaysia, Ms. Loke Pak-Yen, Managing Director, Centriq PR, Ms. Jacqueline Arnold, Head of Programme, Mass Communications, Centre for University of Hertfordshire Programmes, INTI International College Subang, Mr. Roberto Calleja Fernandez, Dean, Centre of University of Hertfordshire Programmes, INTI International College Subang, Mr. Lai Mun Loon.
At its core, We.R.Wira reflects Centriq PR’s belief that heroism lives in ordinary individuals—the everyday heroes (“Wira” ) who choose to act with passion and purpose for causes they believe in. By empowering youth to uncover and tell these stories, Centriq PR aims to nurture purposeful storytellers and future changemakers.
Equipping Youth with Industry‑Ready Skills As the communication industry evolves, Centriq PR recognises that practitioners need more than creativity. They must develop a deeper understanding of the United Nations’ 17 Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), communicate their relevance to different audiences and connect with collaborators across sectors. We.R.Wira equips students with these industry‑relevant skills by combining real‑world storytelling, SDG alignment and academia‑industry partnerships.
In her opening remarks, Managing Director of Centriq PR, Jacqueline Arnold, shared, “At Centriq PR, we believe storytelling has the power to educate, inspire and bring people together. Storytelling is more than creative expression; it is practice for life. Beyond learning to craft authentic narratives, students gain the ability to identify stakeholders with shared values, build meaningful collaborations and amplify stories across multiple platforms to inspire real impact. This is what PR is all about. Through We.R.Wira, we encourage young communicators to listen with empathy and give voice to everyday heroes who create positive change in their communities.”
Season 4 recorded its strongest participation to date, receiving 41 submissions from four institutions: UOW Malaysia Glenmarie, UTAR Kampar, UiTM Shah Alam, and newcomer INTI International College Subang, which proudly hosted the ceremony. Collectively, participants explored 12 of the 17 UN SDGs, with SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), SDG 15 (Life on Land), and SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) most represented.
Building Skills Through Workshops and Resources Centriq PR also led a workshop at INTI International College Subang, supported by a video series and workshop deck, to introduce strategic communications, SDG alignment and ESG‑focused narratives. These resources gave students practical skills to connect their stories to sustainability goals and prepare to collaborate with stakeholders as future communicators.
Celebrating Storytelling as a Catalyst for Change Entries were evaluated by a panel comprising Loke Pak‑Yen (United Nations Association Malaysia), Frank Chan (MDEC), Norhizam Abdul Kadir (EVD Berhad), and Arnold.
The event brought together students, educators and industry leaders to celebrate storytelling as a catalyst for positive change, demonstrating how strategic communications can help advance the UN SDGs.
Academic Dean of INTI International College Subang, Mr. Eric Lee, noted, “This semester, INTI International College Subang aligned its Mass Communication module assessments with the We.R.Wira campaign, encouraging students to submit their coursework to the national competition.”
Honouring Champions and Outstanding Stories For its compelling storytelling and lasting community impact, the submission titled Anak Pulau: Below the Surface by UiTM Shah Alam emerged champion. Another submission by UiTM Shah Alam, Where Heart Meets: The Story of Tender Hearts Cafe secured the first runner‑up spot, while Beyond the Sirens by UOW Glenmarie took second runner‑up position.
For demonstrating exceptional merit and strong performance, four Honourable Mentions were presented to Colouring Lives (UOW Glenmarie) and Keep Wildlife Wild: Animal Neighbours Project, Sixteen Pillars, One Heritage, and Invisible Citizens: The Fight For A Name, all submitted by UiTM Shah Alam.
In the new Outstanding SDG Alignment category, the submissions titled Invisible Citizens: The Fight For a Name (SDG 10: Reduced Inequalities) and The Lost Food Project: More Than Leftovers (SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production; SDG 2: Zero Hunger), UiTM Shah Alam emerged as winners for their powerful alignment with selected SDGs and ability to inspire awareness and action.
Looking Ahead to Season 5 Through We.R.Wira, Centriq PR is cultivating the next generation of communicators by equipping students with practical experience in strategic storytelling, SDG alignment, stakeholder engagement, and industry collaboration—skills essential in today’s PR profession.
Season 4 leaves a resounding message: Change begins when those who care enough, dare to act. Looking ahead, We.R.Wira will return for Season 5, reaffirming Centriq PR’s long‑term commitment to nurturing future communicators through meaningful storytelling, collaboration and social impact initiatives.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Centriq PR
Centriq PR is a Malaysian independent public relations consultancy, recognised for its expertise in strategic content development, corporate communications, media relations, reputation management, ESG communications, and crisis response.
The consultancy focuses on human intelligence, ethical guidance, and trust-building to provide strategic communications counsel, partnering with organisations across industries to build trust, strengthen stakeholder relationships, and deliver measurable outcomes.
Beyond client work, Centriq PR champions communications as a force for social impact. Its flagship youth initiative, We.R.Wira, equips students with practical storytelling skills and amplifies inspiring stories aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs), showing how communication can drive lasting positive change.
A powerful tornado tore across north-eastern Wisconsin on Monday, damaging homes, businesses and vehicles while cutting electricity to tens of thousands of customers. The National Weather Service confirmed that the tornado struck parts of Winnebago and Outagamie counties during a severe thunderstorm outbreak driven by intense heat, high humidity and unstable atmospheric conditions. Preliminary surveys identified damage consistent with at least an EF2 tornado in Menasha, where […]
President Donald Trump said the United States was pursuing talks with Iran to halt the Middle East conflict but warned that military operations would resume if diplomacy failed to produce an agreement. “The only reason they want to meet is because we’ve been hitting them very hard,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One on Monday. “There’s a good chance that something could happen, and if it […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Oil prices slumped on Monday after the United States and Iran halted attacks, raising hopes that diplomacy could prevent a wider conflict and restore stability to critical energy routes across the Middle East. Brent crude, the benchmark for more than two-thirds of global oil supplies, fell 9.13 per cent to $87.94 a barrel by 11.55pm UAE time. West Texas Intermediate dropped 7.94 per […]
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Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Abu Dhabi Global Market has recognised Tether Gold as an Accepted Spot Commodity, opening the way for licensed financial firms in the centre to provide regulated services involving the gold-backed digital token. The designation covers XAU₮, issued by Tether through its commodities business. Each full token represents ownership of one fine troy ounce of physical gold allocated from a London Good Delivery bar […]
Google has begun introducing a unified naming system for cyber threat actors, replacing overlapping labels used by its security teams with two-word cryptonyms designed to give defenders clearer context about attackers and their likely objectives. The Google Threat Intelligence Group, known as GTIG, said the taxonomy would standardise threat tracking across its platforms and public reporting. The change follows the integration of Mandiant and Google’s Threat Analysis […]
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King Hamad Bin Isa Al Khalifa Park is emerging as a major summer attraction in Abu Dhabi, combining dense natural shade with an air-conditioned promenade and recreational facilities designed for year-round use. Located in the Al Mushrif area, the free-entry park features more than 1,100 mature Ghaf trees, elevated walking trails, cycling routes, meditation decks and open lawns. Its centrepiece is an air-conditioned walkway extending about 700 […]
By Asad Mirza Washington and Riyadh have signed a civilian nuclear cooperation pact that could let Saudi Arabia enrich uranium on its own soil. Announced this week and now headed to Congress, the deal marks a historic shift in US nonproliferation policy, alarms Israel and threatens to reshape the regional balance of power just as […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank has become the first bank worldwide to deploy Visa’s Threat Intelligence Platform, integrating cyber and payments intelligence into its fraud-prevention operations. The early adoption gives ADIB’s cybersecurity, fraud and risk teams real-time information on threats that could lead to stolen credentials, compromised accounts and fraudulent transactions. The bank is also working with Visa to design the platform’s first use […]
Aldar has launched The Canopies, the first residential community within its AED6 billion Yas Point waterfront development on the northern shore of Yas Island. The project will comprise 592 apartments spread across six mid-rise buildings, with sales scheduled to begin on July 29. Studios and one-, two- and three-bedroom homes will be offered in a park-centred setting designed to link private residences with landscaped outdoor areas and […]