Europe’s tougher digital-asset rules are creating conditions for a new wave of mergers and acquisitions as crypto companies seek licences, compliance expertise, customers and stronger links with established banks. The European Union’s Markets in Crypto-Assets regulation, known as MiCA, entered a decisive phase on July 1, when the final transitional arrangements expired across the bloc. Crypto exchanges, custodians and other service providers can no longer rely on […]
AMD has outlined a long-term server processor roadmap extending to 2030, placing its Florence and Ravenna chips at the centre of a broader push to capture demand from artificial intelligence, cloud computing and high-performance data centres. Florence, based on the planned Zen 7 architecture, is targeted for 2028 as part of AMD’s seventh-generation EPYC processor family. It is scheduled to be followed by Ravenna, an eighth-generation EPYC […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Al Maktoum International Airport’s first expansion phase remains scheduled to begin operations in 2032 as Dubai accelerates construction, runway development and the award of major infrastructure contracts. The project has moved into large-scale construction, with contracts valued at more than AED13 billion under execution and packages worth over AED55 billion expected to be awarded during the next stage. Work completed during the past […]
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has adopted informal Instagram Reels to speak directly to young voters as student-led protests over examination paper leaks intensify pressure on his government.
The shift became visible through selfie-style videos recorded without the cinematic production, dramatic music and carefully staged imagery that have long characterised Modi’s digital communication. Speaking into a phone camera, he addressed concerns over compromised examinations, promised action against those responsible and thanked students for sending suggestions.
The intervention marked an attempt to reclaim political ground on Instagram, where protest organisers, students and meme creators have built a powerful alternative narrative around examination failures, unemployment and government accountability.
Modi’s first video on the issue drew heavy engagement and was followed by another message within a day. His Instagram following rose by close to one million, taking the total to about 102 million, underscoring both his digital reach and the intense public interest surrounding the controversy.
The messages came as demonstrations spread beyond Delhi, with rallies and solidarity actions reported in several states. Protesters have demanded institutional reforms, protection for examination candidates and responsibility at the highest levels of the education system.
The agitation was triggered by allegations surrounding leaked examination papers, including the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test for undergraduate medical courses. The examination affects roughly two million candidates and remains one of the country’s most competitive routes into higher education.
Public anger widened after images and videos of police action against demonstrators circulated online. Metro restrictions, road closures, detentions and internet disruptions in some areas strengthened claims by organisers that the authorities were responding to an education crisis as a law-and-order challenge.
Much of the mobilisation has been driven by the Cockroach Janta Party, a loosely structured youth movement that emerged through social media satire. Led by activist Abhijeet Dipke, the group has used memes, parody videos and irreverent slogans to attract students who are distrustful of traditional political organisations.
The word “cockroach”, initially used as an insult against frustrated young people, was converted into a symbol of resistance. Demonstrators began wearing cockroach costumes, carrying illustrated placards and producing short videos designed for rapid circulation on Instagram.
That approach has placed Modi in an unusual contest. His political rise was closely linked to the use of social platforms to bypass conventional media and construct a direct relationship with supporters. Protesters are now deploying the same methods to challenge his record and ridicule official messaging.
Government strategists have acknowledged the importance of responding on platforms dominated by younger users. Modi has urged ministers to engage more actively on Instagram and publish Reels rather than rely only on formal statements, television appearances or lengthy speeches.
The new communication style seeks to project accessibility. Modi addresses viewers as friends, uses conversational language and presents the videos as spontaneous exchanges rather than official broadcasts. The approach also reflects the growing political value of vertical video, which social platforms distribute through recommendation systems beyond an account’s existing followers.
The content, however, has faced scepticism from protest leaders and opposition parties. Critics said the videos offered assurances without immediately meeting the central demand for accountability. They also questioned why a direct intervention came only after weeks of demonstrations and confrontation with the police.
Pressure on the government deepened when Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan resigned after sustained demands for his removal. His departure represented the first major concession to the movement and prompted celebrations at the Jantar Mantar protest site in New Delhi.
Pradhan said he was stepping down to prevent forces hostile to the country from exploiting the controversy. Protest organisers rejected attempts to portray the campaign as externally influenced, describing it as a domestic movement driven by students harmed by examination failures.
Congress leader Rahul Gandhi and other opposition politicians joined demonstrations and demanded broader reforms. Their participation gave the agitation greater national visibility, although organisers have sought to maintain distance from established parties and preserve the movement’s youth-led identity.
The protests have also drawn support from public figures and civil society activists, including climate campaigner Sonam Wangchuk, whose hunger strike added moral pressure on the administration. Entertainment personalities have used Instagram to express sympathy with students and call for dialogue.
Authorities have announced measures including tougher penalties for examination fraud, fast-track legal proceedings and changes within the National Testing Agency. Dozens of officials have reportedly been removed or reassigned as part of an internal overhaul.
Cryptocurrency markets face renewed volatility as an Ethereum developer warns that expectations surrounding the United States’ CLARITY Act could trigger a deeper sell-off if lawmakers fail to deliver the regulatory breakthrough already anticipated by traders. Econar, a long-time Ethereum builder and commentator, said digital assets could stage only a limited rise as speculation about the legislation intensifies. Failure to pass the bill could then push prices below […]
NEW YORK, US – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2026 – On July 15 (EDT, GMT-4), the second semi-final of the 2026 FIFA World Cup took place in Atlanta. Meanwhile, outside New York New Jersey Stadium, the host venue for this year’s World Cup Final, Mengniu, as an Official Sponsor of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, unveiled a 400-square-meter Chinese Culture Pavilion created in collaboration with multiple partners. Using football as its bridge, the brand as its platform, and Chinese culture as its heart, the immersive pavilion seamlessly blended the passion of the beautiful game with the elegance of traditional Chinese aesthetics, presenting China’s stories to a global audience on one of the world’s greatest sporting stages.
Mengniu Traditional Chinese-style Cultural Pavilion
Mengniu’s Chinese Culture Pavilion Debuts at the FIFA World Cup, Showcasing Chinese Culture to the World
On the pitch, a single football captures the attention of billions. Beyond the stadium, civilizations come together through cultural exchange.
The Mengniu Chinese Culture Pavilion marks the first comprehensive international presentation of Beijing Central Axis since its inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and debuts at one of the world’s premier sporting events. Inspired by the architectural aesthetics of traditional Chinese architecture and the spatial order of Beijing Central Axis, the pavilion follows a symmetrical layout centered on a principal axis. At its entrance stands the monumental painting Magnificent Central Axis, offering a panoramic bird’s-eye view of Beijing’s historic Central Axis while conveying, through artistic expression, the Eastern philosophy and cultural values it embodies. As visitors explore the pavilion, football fans from around the world pause to experience its interactive exhibits, immersing themselves in the richness of Chinese traditional culture. Standing outside New York New Jersey Stadium, the pavilion continues to tell vivid, contemporary stories of China to a global audience.
Beyond Football: Mengniu Elevates Cultural Exchange on the World Cup Stage
For Mengniu, building a Chinese Culture Pavilion at this FIFA World Cup reflects a deeper understanding of the powerful connection between sport and cultural exchange. Mengniu believes that the FIFA World Cup is not only the pinnacle of football competition but also a global platform where diverse civilizations meet, connect, and learn from one another. As an Official Sponsor of the 2026 FIFA World Cup from China, Mengniu sees it as both an opportunity and a responsibility to share China’s stories and showcase the richness of Chinese civilization with audiences worldwide. This commitment extends beyond football. During the Paris Summer Olympic Games and the Milan Winter Olympic Games, Mengniu, as a Worldwide Olympic Partner (TOP), continuously hosted its signature “China Night” events, integrating Chinese culture into the narrative of the world’s most prestigious sporting competitions.
Mengniu Traditional Chinese-style Cultural Pavilion
Beyond a Pavilion: Mengniu’s Multi-Dimensional Presence at the FIFA World Cup
As an Official Sponsor of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Mengniu’s presence extends far beyond traditional brand visibility. Its participation represents a comprehensive global strategy that integrates products, brand values, and corporate social responsibility.
On the product front, Mengniu Ice Cream has officially become the Official Ice Cream of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Mengniu Ice Cream is available at all tournament venues and has simultaneously expanded into 11 major U.S. cities, including Los Angeles and New York. By bringing world-class-quality products to international consumers, Mengniu continues to strengthen the commercial foundation for its global growth.
At the brand level, together with global brand ambassadors Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé, and Lamine Yamal, Mengniu brings its corporate spirit, “Born for Greatness,” to life on football’s biggest stage. The company has also partnered with Hisense to launch a series of coordinated Chinese-character pitch-side advertising campaigns during the tournament. Moving beyond individual brand promotion, the two companies present a united expression of Chinese brands, confidently demonstrating the growing global influence of Chinese enterprises.
In terms of corporate social responsibility, Mengniu not only brings Chinese culture to the international stage but also demonstrates the commitment of a responsible Chinese enterprise through meaningful public initiatives. At the opening match of this year’s FIFA World Cup, six teenage footballers from Inner Mongolia were selected by Mengniu to escort the FIFA flag onto the field, creating an inspiring example of how businesses can promote youth football development while fulfilling their social responsibilities.
From a glass of milk on store shelves to a cultural journey within the pavilion, Mengniu’s World Cup presence reflects the remarkable evolution of Chinese enterprises on the global stage. Looking ahead, Mengniu will continue to leverage the world’s premier sporting events to advance health, boost brand power, strengthen global presence, and fulfill social responsibilities, contributing the strength of China’s dairy industry to sharing China’s stories and showcasing the enduring appeal of Chinese civilization with the world.
Hashtag: #Mengniu
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Abu Dhabi Festival has announced its full 2026 programme, bringing leading orchestras, opera singers, ballet companies, jazz musicians and contemporary artists to the capital for a season running from October 10 to December 19. The festival’s 23rd edition will be presented under the theme “The Wisdom of Culture”, with performances staged at Etihad Arena, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental, the Cultural Foundation, Sorbonne University Abu […]
With a combined footprint of over 9,000 hectares, the twin developments, Vinhomes Green Paradise in the south and Vinhomes Global Gate Ha Long in the north, position Vietnam’s real estate sector at the forefront of next-generation ESG++ urbanism, where nature regeneration, smart governance and human-centric design converge at unprecedented scale.
HO CHI MINH CITY / QUANG NINH, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2026 – Vinhomes, Vietnam’s leading residential developer, is advancing a new generation of sustainable urban development with two landmark mega-projects located at the country’s northern and southern gateways.
As Vietnam emerges as a global investment destination, Vinhomes is pioneering a new generation of ESG++ cities designed for people, nature and the future.
Spanning a combined area exceeding 9,000 hectares, Vinhomes Green Paradise (2,870 hectares) in Can Gio, Ho Chi Minh City, and Vinhomes Global Gate Ha Long (6,200 hectares) in Quang Ninh province embody the company’s ESG++ philosophy, an approach that extends beyond conventional sustainability to actively regenerate nature while integrating smart urban governance and human-centered design.
A New Generation of Cities Where Growth and Nature Advance Together
As Vietnam strengthens its position as one of Asia’s fastest-growing investment destinations, attracting record levels of foreign direct investment and a new generation of international professionals, Vinhomes is pioneering an urban development model that positions nature restoration as the foundation of long-term economic resilience and social prosperity.
According to the World Economic Forum, resilient, nature-positive cities are becoming essential to long-term economic competitiveness as climate resilience, public health and quality of life increasingly influence investment decisions. The Urban Land Institute’s Emerging Trends in Real Estate reports consistently identify sustainability, wellness and resilient mixed-use communities as among the strongest drivers of real estate value creation worldwide.
Recognizing this shift, Vinhomes has embraced a philosophy that extends beyond conventional ESG implementation. The company believes sustainable prosperity requires continuously regenerating nature rather than simply preserving what already exists, a vision that has evolved into what it calls an ESG++ approach, combining environmental restoration, smart urban governance and human-centered development at an unprecedented scale.
Vinhomes Green Paradise: A Coastal Urban Wonder in the South
Situated beside the UNESCO-recognised 75,000-hectare Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, Vinhomes Green Paradise became the first Official Participant recognised by New7Wonders for the global campaign “7 Wonders of Future Cities.” The 2,870-hectare development maintains an exceptionally low construction density of just 16%, allowing the majority of the masterplan to remain dedicated to greenery and water.
An 800-hectare natural seawater lagoon forms the ecological heart of the development, while its 121-kilometre shoreline creates one of the world’s most distinctive coastal urban landscapes. IoT, artificial intelligence and big data are embedded throughout governance, environmental monitoring and city operations to optimise sustainability and improve everyday urban management. The project integrates internationally benchmarked healthcare, education, senior living, culture, sports and entertainment into a comprehensive ecosystem designed to support every stage of life.
Vinhomes Global Gate Ha Long: A Waterfront Megacity in the North
Hundreds of kilometres to the north, Vinhomes is advancing the same philosophy at an even larger scale. Officially breaking ground in April 2026, Vinhomes Global Gate Ha Long spans more than 6,200 hectares, making it one of the largest coastal urban developments in Asia. Positioned directly alongside UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ha Long Bay, the project occupies one of the most extraordinary waterfront locations anywhere in the world.
Rather than maximising built density, the masterplan emphasises ecological regeneration. More than 2,500 hectares are dedicated to forests, wetlands and water landscapes, including 680 hectares of naturally filtered sea, 200 kilometres of white-sand coastline, and over 660 hectares of Globe Ha Long Forest Park, creating a vast regenerative ecosystem that complements the surrounding World Heritage environment.
The development is also envisioned to pursue the newly introduced ISO 37125 standard for sustainable urban development, reflecting an ambition to align with an emerging international benchmark for future ESG cities.
The project features a comprehensive “all-in-one” urban ecosystem: six residential districts, including exclusive island communities surrounded entirely by the sea, are complemented by seven globally benchmarked ecosystem clusters spanning culture, hospitality, retail, healthcare, education, sports and financial services.
Large-scale amenities include a 60,000-seat waterfront performance arena, the Wonder Theatre, an international convention centre, extensive hospitality facilities, international-standard golf courses, a world-class marina, an integrated shopping mall, professional sports facilities, Vinmec healthcare services, international education institutions, and a new central business district designed to attract global talent and investment.
The same integrated philosophy underpins Vinhomes Green Paradise, where ecological preservation, advanced technology and community wellbeing are designed to reinforce one another within a highly resilient coastal environment.
Collectively, these two mega-projects demonstrate how ESG can evolve beyond regulatory compliance to become a comprehensive framework for urban development, one capable of strengthening Vietnam’s international competitiveness not only as one of Asia’s fastest-growing economies but also as a destination for sustainable living and long-term investment. Instead of viewing environmental protection as a constraint on growth, Vinhomes positions nature restoration as the foundation of long-term economic resilience, social prosperity and global appeal.
Hashtag: #Vinhomes
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Vinhomes
Vinhomes is Vietnam’s largest residential real estate and integrated township developer. The company pioneers the development of synchronized, modern large-scale townships, delivering premium living standards and unlocking sustainable investment opportunities for domestic and international clients.
Hackers are using a legitimate copy of Notepad++ and a disguised plugin to install malware on Windows computers, allowing malicious code to run through the text editor’s normal extension-loading process. The campaign has been linked to UAC-0099, a threat cluster known for targeting government bodies, defence organisations and strategically important enterprises in Ukraine. The revised infection chain, detected from mid-July, deploys two newly identified tools called LUNCHPOKE […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Aldar has launched Marsa Al Saadiyat, a Dh100 billion mixed-use waterfront development completing the final phase of Saadiyat Island’s masterplan and expanding Abu Dhabi’s luxury property, tourism and cultural offering. The development will cover 6.4 million square metres and accommodate more than 58,000 residents. It will include Abu Dhabi’s largest marina, luxury hotels, branded residences, private mansions, villas, apartments, schools, healthcare facilities and […]
Advanced Micro Devices has launched a rack-scale artificial intelligence platform built around its next-generation accelerators, processors and networking technology, stepping up its attempt to weaken Nvidia’s hold over the fast-expanding AI infrastructure market. The Helios system, unveiled at AMD’s Advancing AI event at San Francisco’s Moscone Center, is now in full production and is scheduled to begin shipping before the end of the third quarter of 2026. […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai’s off-plan property boom is pushing developers to offer more distinctive architecture, stronger lifestyle concepts and higher construction standards as buyers become increasingly selective in the emirate’s crowded luxury housing market. The real estate sector recorded about 87,800 transactions valued at AED291.7 billion during the first half of 2026. Off-plan properties represented 71 per cent of all deals, underlining the central role of […]
Argentine football supporters have launched an online petition demanding that FIFA replay the 2026 World Cup final after Spain defeated Argentina 1-0 in extra time. The Change. org campaign crossed 61,000 signatures within days of the July 19 final at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Support continued to grow on Thursday, with separate live counts showing the total moving well beyond the figure that first […]
Mirae Asset Group has completed its acquisition of Korbit, placing South Korea’s first cryptocurrency exchange under the control of one of the country’s largest financial conglomerates and accelerating the convergence of traditional finance and digital assets. Mirae Asset Consulting became Korbit’s largest shareholder after completing regulatory and transaction procedures. The deal gives the group control of more than 90 per cent of the exchange, following an agreement […]
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 […]
Four nights of refined coastal gastronomy and creative collaborations will be staged from August 12-15, 2026, featuring highly acclaimed Michelin-starred chefs from Bo.lan, Andō, Maison Dunand and more.
PHUKET, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 July 2026 – Some of the deepest conversations happen over food – the kind that pull you in close and ensure you stay a little longer than planned. This August, these conversations will become even more meaningful at the “Luxury Dining Series, Across the Table” – a collection of immersive epicurean experiences unfolding across six extraordinary destinations in Asia.
One of these six destinations will be hosted from August 12-15, 2026, at The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket, the five-star sanctuary nestled on an idyllic island in the Andaman Sea, where some of the region’s leading Michelin-starred chefs will join hands for four nights of culinary celebrations and collaborations.
A Gathering of Gastronomic Visionaries
The Luxury Dining Series brings together visionary guest chefs Duangporn “Bo” Songvisava and Dylan Jones from Bangkok’s iconic Bo.lan, Agustin Ferrando Balbi, chef-founder of Andō in Hong Kong, and Arnaud Dunand Sauthier, chef-founder of Maison Dunand in Bangkok, alongside mixology maestros Sudarat “Taln” Rojanavanich of Bar Us and Jane Kaew-Yod, co-founder of Lay Heritage Cocktails Space.
They will join The Naka Island, Phuket’s own highly acclaimed Chef Joseph William Talbot, Chef Ratchanee “Kob” Nu-On, and Mixologist Adi Sukasta, along with culinary artists and mixologists from across the Marriott portfolio—including Pastry Chef Sylvain Constans from The Ritz-Carlton, Bangkok, Chef Laongdao “Aong” Tohkhot of Phulay Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, Krabi, and Mixologist Fransiska Siregar from The St. Regis Jakarta—for a series of mesmerizing, multi-hand dining and cocktail experiences spanning four engaging, interactive evenings.
Four Idyllic Evenings, Four Enchanting Chapters
August 12 – “The Art of Culinary Discovery & Craft Brew Experience” will be hosted by chefs Agustin Ferrando Balbi and Joseph William Talbot at the resort’s Multi-Purpose Sala, with handcrafted pass-around bites and live stations inspired by island life, paired with Phuket’s finest craft beers.
August 13 – “The Grand Banquet: Eight-Hand Dinner” will be staged on the Beach Lawn, as chefs Agustin Ferrando Balbi, Arnaud Dunand Sauthier, Joseph William Talbot, and Sylvain Constans come together for an exceptional, wine-paired menu that showcases the essence of Phuket beneath the Andaman sky.
August 14 – “Chefs at the Table: Six-Hand Dinner” will see chefs Arnaud Dunand Sauthier, Joseph William Talbot, and Sylvain Constans present an elegant wine-paired menu at Veranda, balancing Alpine precision, Mediterranean warmth, and French artistry.
August 15 – “Chefs at the Table: Eight-Hand Culinary Journey” will be a celebration of refined Thai cuisine at Aiyara, as chefs Duangporn “Bo” Songvisava, Dylan Jones, Laongdao “Aong” Tohkhot, and Ratchanee “Kob” Nu-On honor the kingdom’s gastronomic heritage, with cocktail pairings by Jane Kaew-Yod.
Beyond the Table: Uncover Phuket’s Culture and Crafts
Alongside these four epicurean evenings, guests are invited to a series of experiences that will connect them with the authentic essence of the island. A Gin Distillery Tour and hands-on Gin Making Workshop, a Dye Textile Workshop rooted in local artisan techniques, and a sunset catamaran excursion along the Andaman coast will highlight the natural, cultural and culinary wonders of Phuket. Every celebration extends into the evening with a curated line-up of cocktail experiences, including a bar takeover by Bar Us and a special cocktail collaboration with The St. Regis Jakarta, bringing fresh energy and creative pairings to The Naka Island, Phuket.
The Ultimate “Experience Dining Package”
Finally, guests staying from August 12-15, 2026, can reserve the “Experience Dining Package”, which includes daily breakfast and a set dinner for two people, with each evening thoughtfully elevated to reflect the spirit of “Across The Table”.
To reserve your place at the “Luxury Dining Series“, please visit luxurydiningseries.com/phuket, and to book the “Experience Dining Package”, please click here.
For more information about The Naka Island, a Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, Phuket, please connect with us via these channels:
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Marriott Bonvoy®
Marriott Bonvoy’s extraordinary portfolio offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world, with more than 30 brands that are tailored to every type of journey. From The Ritz-Carlton and St. Regis to W Hotels and more, Marriott Bonvoy has more luxury offerings than any other travel program. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, and through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy Moments™, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy Boutiques®. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy, visit marriottbonvoy.com.
About The Luxury Collection® Hotels & Resorts
The Luxury Collection® is comprised of world-renowned hotels and resorts offering unique, authentic experiences that evoke lasting, treasured memories. For the global explorer, The Luxury Collection offers a gateway to the world’s most exciting and desirable destinations. Each hotel and resort are a unique and cherished expression of its location; a portal to the destination’s charms and treasures. Originated in 1906 under the CIGA® brand as a collection of Europe’s most celebrated and iconic properties, today The Luxury Collection brand is a glittering ensemble of over 130 of the world’s finest hotels and resorts in 42 countries and territories. All of these hotels, many of them centuries old, are internationally recognized as being among the world’s finest. For more information and new openings, visit theluxurycollection.com or follow Instagram and Facebook. The Luxury Collection is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 July 2026 – Ocean Park is set to ignite a summer of joy with the Pandastic Summer Birthday Celebration for its entire family of six beloved giant pandas, running from now until 31 August 2026. Join us in celebrating the second birthday of the panda twins, Elder Sister Jia Jia and Little Brother De De, alongside their August-born parents Ying Ying and Le Le, and June birthday stars An An and Ke Ke. Come immerse in the celebration brimming with interactive games, performances and water play.
Even more exciting, visitors could take home fabulous prices, including the newly launched MAXUS MIFA 7 PLUS, the mid-size family pure electric MPV – by entering the Summer Joy Lucky Draw* on every eligible visit during the promotion period of 3 July and 31 August 2026!
Birthday photo spots and Panda Friends encounters
Celebrate the pandas’ special days with pandastic photo opportunities across the Park. Capture snapshots at the main entrance’s gigantic birthday countdown zone. Don’t miss the charming 5-metre-tall Giant Panda Birthday Bun Tower at Waterfront Plaza, adorned with piles of pink birthday buns to celebrate the pandas’ birthdays in true Hong Kong style.
Explore the Panda Friends Cute & Cuddly zone at Eco-Herbal Trail, featuring over 60 Panda Friends sculptures, each carrying magnifying sunglasses and cameras, ready to discover the wonders of nature.
The precious panda moments
Relive the heartwarming journey of all six giant pandas at the Pandastic Happy Moments exhibit next to the Hong Kong Jockey Club Sichuan Treasures. This special display showcases precious footage commemorating the rapid growth of twins Jia Jia and De De and other adorable life stages from all the giant panda members. It is a truly unmissable experience for all panda enthusiasts.
Fans can also visit the Giant Panda Fans Zone near the exhibit, created for fans to meet and connect and exchange their own handmade crafts and treasured panda keepsakes until 31 August 2026!
Summer splashing fun with Panda Friends
Dive into body-cooling water fun at the Panda Friends Splashy Birthday Camp outside Applause Pavilion. Experience the thrill of dashing through giant water curtains or facing a massive waterfall-style deluge from the mega water bucket. Unleash your playful instincts with all-time favourite water bomb fights at Panda Friends Water Bomb Fun or get caught in refreshing water gun ambushes from Ocean Park’s special Celebration Squad during their energetic Pandastic Birthday Splash, featuring adorable dance routines inspired by the panda twins.
Delightful entertainment and limited-edition performances
The highly-anticipated Pandastic Summer Birthday Spectacular features giant inflatable Panda Friends roaming the Park, accompanied by various performance groups delivering vibrant songs and dances at the Pawsome Summer Party on 8, 15 and 16 August 2026. Ocean 6N1 dress up with their special birthday outfits and showcase incredible singing and dancing in All Star Jam talent show. Whiskers & Friends will also give a birthday edition special performance at Ocean Park Star Match. Ocean Park’s lively roving band will also keep the festive atmosphere high.
Exclusive collectibles
Commemorate the twins’ second birthday with exclusive, limited-edition Giant Panda Birthday stamps. Collect all the stamps from designated Park locations to complete your very own beautiful birthday card. Test your skills and reflexes at interactive game booths to win special prizes. The talented coloured-chalk artists painting adorable giant panda figures in the Park.
Adorable merchandise and food and beverage
Check out our adorable Panda Friends Summer Collection, vibrant with colourful and summery designs. Highlights include the Giant Panda Plush Keychain Blind Box, featuring all the Panda Friends in their cutest summer outfits. Jia Jia and De De have transformed into the “Lemon Twins”, starring in a new range of summer essentials to keep everyone cool and refreshed throughout the season. Equally unmissable is the Panda Friends Hong Kong Food Collection, which charmingly captures iconic Hong Kong food elements.
Beyond these, the all-new Ocean Park x Maltese Crossover Series and the Panda Friends Hong Kong Food Collection prize items will be making their way to game booths across the Park, starting from mid-July. On top of that, fans can also look forward to Panda Friends photo frame, claw machines and press penny machines to bring in another level of excitement.
To celebrate the giant pandas’ birthdays, Ocean Park has prepared a tempting lineup of panda-themed treats, including the Panda Twins Mini Burgers and Panda Snack Platter. No birthday celebration is complete without desserts and cakes. The Park has also launched a delightful selection of treats, as well as refreshing snow cones and frozen fruits for visitors to beat the summer heat. What’s more, other restaurants across the Park will be introducing a summer menu featuring fruit-inspired recipes, so you can savour the flavours of summer with surprises in every bite.
Summer Joy Lucky Draw
Adding a final layer of excitement, the Summer Joy Lucky Draw* offers fantastic surprises. From 3 July to 31 August 2026, upon Park admission, visitors can register to participate for a chance to win from over 1,000 prizes with a total value of more than HK$815,000, including the grand prize, a brand-new MAXUS MIFA 7 PLUS Pure Electric 7-Seater MPV worth HK$369,102, sponsored by Inchcape Hong Kong. Every visit offers another chance to win!
Pair up and dive into summer fun with Summer Duo Pass
Pair up with a friend or family for an unforgettable summer adventure and enjoy up to 30% off with the Summer Duo Pass# available from now until 31 August 2026. Weekday tickets for two adults or two kids start at HK$753 and HK$377 respectively, while any-day tickets for two adults or two kids start at HK$861 and HK$430 respectively.
New Get Closer to the Animals experiences
Beyond the panda birthday festivities, Ocean Park is launching two new Get Closer to the Animals programmes. You can enjoy snorkelling in the Park’s world-class aquarium and visit behind the scenes to interact with the mysterious yet adorable sharks and rays for the very first time in the newly launched Fish Friends Face-Off X Shark & Ray Discovery! There is also a new Meerkat Feeding experience for visitors to learn more about these adorable ambassadors!
Elevating the digital visitor experience
To coincide with the launch of Ocean Park’s summer celebrations, Ocean Park is also enhancing its digital experience with a redesigned official website, which features enhanced mobile compatibility and a more intuitive browsing experience across all devices. This new website supersedes the previous mobile application and enables viewers to access the latest park information anytime, anywhere on one platform.
Ocean Park Named “Muslim-friendly Attraction of The Year”
Ocean Park has been named Muslim-friendly Attraction of The Year at the prestigious Halal in Travel Awards 2026 organised by CrescentRating, the world’s leading consultant on Muslim-friendly tourism. This recognition highlights the Park’s dedication to welcoming diverse guests through comprehensive facilities, including dedicated prayer rooms and an expanded portfolio of Halal-certified dining options like the recently certified Bayview Restaurant. With this milestone, Ocean Park looks forward to welcoming even more international visitors to experience its unique blend of conservation, entertainment, and exceptional cultural hospitality.
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Flynas has confirmed an order for 25 additional Airbus aircraft, strengthening its plans to expand domestic, regional and international services as Saudi Arabia accelerates investment in aviation and tourism. The agreement covers five A330-900 widebody aircraft and 20 A321neo single-aisle jets. It raises the Riyadh-based low-cost carrier’s firm commitments with Airbus to 235 aircraft, including 20 A330neos and 56 A321neos. The order gives […]
By K Raveendran The spectacle in central Delhi this week carried a significance far beyond the barricades, detentions and blows captured on mobile-phone cameras. The first confrontation unfolded during the Cockroach Janta Party’s march from Jantar Mantar towards Parliament, while Tuesday brought another coercive police response when Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra and other Congress […]
The newswire guarantees online postings on USA Today and increases its guaranteed distribution on high-domain-rating local US news sites to empower AI visibility
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 July 2026 – Media OutReach Newswire, the first global newswire founded in Asia Pacific, has expanded its USA distribution network with additional guaranteed news postings.
Guaranteed news postings on USA Today
Through new strategic agreements, Media OutReach Newswire now provides clients with guaranteed online postings in flagship American media outlets like USA Today, Yahoo Finance, and The Associated Press, alongside more than 650 trusted news sites with domain authority. This latest service upgrade specifically targets guaranteed online news postings in media with domain authority to empower AI visibility. By combining distribution with JSON-LD Schema Markup that provides context and meaning to the press release for search engines and AI models to interpret its content accurately, Media OutReach Newswire’s press release distribution structures answers for AI discoverability and AI citation. Media OutReach Newswire’s press release distribution service has been helping companies and government agencies to actively build their AI visibility.
Media OutReach Newswire guarantees news release placements in the official, public-facing press release section of USA Today. With a Domain Authority (DA) rated between 92 and 94 out of 100, USA Today ranks as one of the most trusted news sources for Generative Engine Optimization (GEO). Attracting more than 120.5 million unique monthly visitors, this integration delivers the public visibility necessary to build client brand credibility and trust on a national stage. Additionally, the newswire has secured guaranteed news postings on real local and regional news websites, including The Arizona Republic, Detroit Free Press, Indianapolis Star, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, The Tennessean, and The Oklahoman.
“By improving the quality of our guaranteed news postings on trusted, Google-indexed news sites with domain authority, coupled with the direct delivery of press releases to journalists’ inboxes, Media OutReach Newswire has successfully helped many Asian corporations to build their brand reputation in the US market,” said Jennifer Kok, Founder and CEO of Media OutReach Newswire.
“We are pleased to have built a USA press release distribution network that focuses exactly on what PR professionals need, a distribution that reaches journalists and provides quality news postings on real media. Our comprehensive journalist database built by in-house media researchers covers more than 500 trade news categories and 65,000 media titles across quality media titles. This has helped our clients secure earned media coverage and journalist inquiries from business, technology, ESG, automotive, travel, and many other media sectors in the USA. In addition, Media OutReach Newswire’s partnership with The Associated Press delivers clients’ news releases directly into newsrooms across the United States,” added Jennifer.
Earned media coverage
Over the years, the newswire has cultivated brand trust with journalists at USA media outlets who actively engage with its client releases. Through its Media and Journalist Insights, Media OutReach Newswire is able to report on how many journalists by publication in the USA have opened its clients’ press releases and the earned media write ups achieved.
Media and Journalist Insights per release
PR Intelligence Report for all releases
Through its Total PR and Communications Solution, Media OutReach Newswire’s global distribution network delivers client press releases directly to journalists, guarantees verbatim news postings on trusted news sites with domain authority to empower SEO and GEO, and provides post-release reports packed with data insights and PR Campaign Intelligence that tracks performance over time.
This total solution addresses the needs of PR and communication professionals from press release distribution through to reporting with data insights and PR Campaign Intelligence across both in-country and global PR campaigns. It has been entrusted by hundreds of clients in China, Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea and across APAC to expand their business and brand awareness overseas to markets in Canada, USA, UK & Europe, Latin America, Asia Pacific, ASEAN, Southeast Asia, Middle East, Gulf States and Africa. Hashtag: #MediaOutReachNewswire #pressrelease #USA
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Media OutReach Newswire
Media OutReach Newswire is Asia Pacific’s first global newswire, serving as a trusted partner to media, corporations, agencies and governments across the region and the globe.
Founded in 2009 as a champion of the PR industry, Media OutReach Newswire leverages AI and SaaS technology to redefine press release distribution with a Total PR and Communications Solution. The newswire is focused on its core service of delivering press releases to journalists and editors in targeted media, posting client news releases on real media sites with domain authority (DA), and providing post release reports with data insights along with PR Campaign Intelligence that tracks performance over time. In March 2026, the newswire integrated JSON-LD Schema Markup into its online news postings to empower AI visibility for its clients.
With a global network of over 200,000 journalists and editors, 70,000+ media titles, 1,500+ media partners, and more than 40 languages, Media OutReach Newswire’s focus on providing guaranteed verbatim posting on real media sites powers SEO and GEO for building brand trust and AI visibility, as press releases published on authentic media with domain authority are trusted by search engines and AI models.
Headquartered in Hong Kong SAR with global press release distribution network spanning USA & Canada, Latin America, UK & Europe, the Middle East, Gulf States, Africa, Asia Pacific, Southeast Asia and ASEAN.
For more information about our services, solutions, and network, please visit www.media-outreach.com
The UAE and Andhra Pradesh have moved a planned food-processing partnership into the implementation stage, opening talks on investments, agricultural technology, export infrastructure and more resilient supply chains.
More than 32 companies from the UAE and India joined a business forum organised by the UAE Food Cluster and the Andhra Pradesh government. The gathering brought food producers, agricultural businesses, logistics operators and technology companies together to identify projects across manufacturing, farming, seafood, cold storage and distribution.
The forum, held under the theme “Building Strategic Partnerships Across Value Chains”, coincided with a visit by a UAE economic delegation led by Minister of Economy and Tourism Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, senior state officials and representatives of the Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board also attended.
A memorandum of understanding signed by the UAE Food Cluster and the state’s Economic Development Board provides a framework for investment, trade, innovation and institutional cooperation. It covers sustainable production, value-added manufacturing, technology transfer, knowledge exchange and business missions.
The agreement also advances plans for a UAE-backed food cluster in Andhra Pradesh, an initiative discussed during Naidu’s meeting with Al Marri at the World Economic Forum in Davos in January. The proposed cluster is expected to connect farms, processors, cold-chain operators, ports and overseas buyers through integrated commercial networks.
Initial work will focus on building value chains for mangoes, bananas and cocoa, three products in which Andhra Pradesh has established production and export strengths. UAE-based Floor Masters International has proposed investing ₹100 crore in a food-processing facility at Gangadhara Nellore in Chittoor district.
The company, which supplies products to about 25 countries, plans to use the facility as an export base. The proposal is the first identified investment under the broader partnership and could serve as a test case for subsequent projects involving Emirati businesses.
Discussions at the forum covered seafood, aquaculture, dairy products, poultry, pulses, horticulture, food sourcing and distribution. Companies also examined cold-chain systems that could reduce spoilage between farms, processing centres, ports and retail markets.
Andhra Pradesh’s long coastline, commercial ports, agricultural output and links to Gulf markets have made the state a potential supply base for UAE food businesses. Stronger maritime connections could shorten delivery times while providing producers with access to consumers across West Asia and other markets served through UAE logistics networks.
Naidu presented opportunities in horticulture, aquaculture and food processing, while promoting Rayalaseema as a future horticultural centre. The state is seeking public and private investment in irrigation, storage, packaging, processing and branding to raise the value of agricultural production rather than relying mainly on raw commodity sales.
Andhra Pradesh accounts for 15.6 per cent of the country’s fruit production and leads nationally in crops including papaya, cocoa, tomato, coconut and oil palm. It is also a major producer and exporter of chillies, bananas, seafood and aquaculture products.
The state allocated ₹1,223.86 crore to horticulture and allied departments in its 2026–27 budget. Its plans include expanding commercial horticulture, supporting micro-irrigation and developing West Godavari as a cocoa hub. Nearly 120,000 tonnes of bananas are exported annually, highlighting the potential for additional sorting, packaging and processing capacity.
For the UAE, the partnership supports a strategy of securing diversified and commercially sustainable food supply channels. The country has built an ecosystem covering farming, manufacturing, imports, distribution, food technology and logistics, but remains dependent on overseas supply for much of its consumption.
The UAE Food Cluster, launched two years ago, connects more than 2,000 businesses across production, processing, distribution and innovation. The wider national food sector includes more than 10,000 companies and over 38,000 farms, alongside tens of thousands of registered food-related trademarks.
Al Marri and Naidu also discussed cooperation in tourism, hospitality, infrastructure and knowledge-based industries. Emirati companies are assessing coastal tourism projects and logistics opportunities, indicating that the food initiative could form part of a wider investment relationship with the state.
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