News related to
World

How the Lucky Draw Works

Shoppers receive one lucky draw chance for every $50 spent on Panasonic products in a single receipt during the campaign period. Entries are cumulative, the more you spend, the more chances you can obtain to win.

• Campaign period: 11 November 2026 to 7 February 2027
• Where to buy: Official Panasonic stores, participating retailers and online in Singapore
• How to register: Customers register their details and upload a copy of the receipt through the official online form. Only entries submitted through the form are eligible for the draw.
• Submission deadline: 14 February 2027
• Grand prize: An 8D6N guided spring tour for 2 pax featuring the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route and Pink Moss Festival in April to May 2027.

Please refer to the Panasonic Singapore Official website for exact draw date, time, and location.

An All-Inclusive Itinerary Across Japan’s Northern Alps and Cultural Landmarks

The curated 8D6N itinerary takes winners through Japan’s Northern Alps to walk beneath the famed towering snow walls of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route near Murodo, paired with the vibrant spring colours of the Pink Moss (Shibazakura) Festival.

Winners will also explore the preserved traditional streets of Takayama, the historic temples of Kyoto, and the UNESCO World Heritage gassho-zukuri farmhouses of Shirakawa-go, delivering a seamlessly planned travel package that spans snow walls, seasonal blooms, cultural landmarks, and local shopping.

Experience Japan With Panasonic

As the home of the Panasonic brand, Japan remains a central inspiration for the company’s commitment to quality and lifestyle design. By changing the grand prize from standard flights to an all-inclusive guided tour, Panasonic Singapore aims to give loyal customers an effortless, bucket-list holiday showcasing the best of Japan’s seasonal landscapes and cultural heritage.

For more information about the Win a Trip to Japan campaign, including full terms and conditions, please visit our campaign page.
Hashtag: #Panasonic

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

About the Panasonic Group

Founded in 1918, and today a global leader in developing innovative technologies and solutions for wide-ranging applications in the consumer electronics, housing, automotive, industry, communications, and energy sectors worldwide, the Panasonic Group switched to an operating company system on April 1, 2022 with Panasonic Holdings Corporation serving as a holding company and eight companies positioned under its umbrella. The Group reported consolidated net sales of 8,496.4 billion yen for the year ended March 31, 2024. To learn more about the Panasonic Group, please visit: https://holdings.panasonic/global/

As a key supporting event under the framework of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC), the gathering drew statesmen, diplomats and hundreds of Chinese and foreign business participants.

Building on eight years of accumulated progress and over 140 signed projects, the forum keeps focusing on delivering outcomes from the FOCAC Beijing Summit and aligning with the 10 partnership action plans.

Once again, it shined the global spotlight on Yiwu – a city with no seacoast nor border access, yet a pivotal hub for people-to-people China-Africa trade.

Inside the Yiwu International Expo Center, a three-day China-Africa trade exhibition opened ahead of the forum. Within its 10 000-square-metre hall sit 400 well-arranged booths, bringing together 186 enterprises from 15 countries.

Import-zone shelves are stocked with Ethiopian coffee, Ghanaian shea butter and Zimbabwean handicrafts. Meanwhile, a wide array of Chinese-made goods for household use, stationery, cultural-creative products and beauty cosmetics are ready to reach households across Africa.

More than two decades ago, Chinese and African merchants had to travel far and wide to source goods and secure buyers. Today, complete warehousing, customs-declaration and cross-border logistics allow exhibits to move straight from booths onto ocean-going vessels, closing the full loop from display to delivery.

Transformations extend well beyond exhibition halls.

Twenty years ago, most African traders in Yiwu acted purely as purchasers: they would fill shipping containers with selected goods and ship them back home.

On May 1 this year, China implemented zero-tariff treatment for 53 African diplomatic partners, further reshaping Sami’s business landscape. Trade is no longer a one-way “sell-out” model. Seizing this policy dividend, he began importing local Ugandan specialties such as coffee beans and chili peppers into China. Via Yiwu’s hub, these goods are then distributed to broader markets aboard the China-Europe Yiwu-Xinjiang-Europe Railway Express.

“Zero tariffs give young Africans direct access to the Chinese market and make two-way trade far more actionable,” Ugandan businessman Sami said, hoping more African traders will leverage Yiwu as a platform to bring African products to the wider world.

Like Sami, many entrepreneurs from diverse African nations regard Yiwu as their second home and serve as living, human-scale bridges connecting the two continents.

Official statistics bear witness to this shift. Between January and September 2026, Yiwu’s exports to Africa reached 135.903 billion yuan, marking a year-on-year rise of 30.18 percent.

Historically, China-Africa trade largely featured Chinese goods flowing one-way toward Africa. Today trade chains are evolving into two-way pathways. African coffee, honey and avocados are finding growing room in China’s consumer market. At the same time, Chinese enterprises are no longer content with merely delivering cargo to African ports.

Many firms are pushing supply-chain operations deeper into African local contexts. Local Yiwu-based supply-chain operators have set-up exhibition halls and 15 000-square-metre overseas warehouses in Senegal.

Conventional export business often concluded once goods departed Chinese ports. Now, end-to-end services including bulk procurement, overseas warehousing, local distribution and brand internationalisation travel alongside merchandise into Africa.

To date, Yiwu has established 28 overseas warehouses across 12 African countries. Together with offshore sub-markets and national-buyer service centers, a network spanning procurement, warehousing and distribution is taking shape, bridging Chinese supply capacity and African consumer demand.

In Yiwu, China-Africa cooperation finds tangible expression in shipping containers, grassroots commercial orders and ordinary people’s pursuit of success.

Though land-locked, Yiwu links countless towns across the African continent. The Chinese city bears witness to China-Africa trade advancing past simple commodity transactions, entering a new era of co-built supply chains, mutual market access and people-to-people cultural bonds.

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

Serving Hong Kong for over 60 years, supporting Hong Kong’s diverse calendar of mega events and bringing festive cheer to locals and visitors

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 November 2025 – Prudential Hong Kong Limited (“Prudential”) today announced its title sponsorship of the inaugural “Prudential Hong Kong Winter Wonderland in Tsim Sha Tsui”, supporting the Hong Kong Tourism Board (“HKTB”) in bringing the festive experience of “Hong Kong WinterFest” to Tsim Sha Tsui for the first time. From 18 November, a collection of iconic landmarks along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade will be transformed into a spectacular stage of light and sound. Through an immersive light and sound experience, the event will add a dazzling festive glow to Victoria Harbour and invite locals and visitors from around the world to share in the joy of the season and experience Hong Kong at its festive best.

Ivan Choi, Chief Customer & Marketing Officer, Prudential Hong Kong Limited, said, “Prudential has a longstanding connection with Tsim Sha Tsui. From the large-scale LED screen at Star House to Hong Kong’s first Prudential-themed bus terminus, we have established a distinctive brand presence in this prime district, where business, shopping and entertainment come together. This winter, we are delighted to partner with the Hong Kong Tourism Board to present ‘Prudential Hong Kong Winter Wonderland in Tsim Sha Tsui’, extending our brand presence to the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade. As one of Hong Kong’s leading insurance companies, Prudential has been serving Hong Kong for over 60 years, and this sponsorship reflects our long-term commitment to serving the city, supporting its communities and contributing to its vibrancy. We hope the spectacular light displays will create a memorable winter experience for locals and visitors from around the world.”

Running from 18 November 2026 to 5 January 2027, the event will transform the Hong Kong Cultural Centre Cluster, comprising the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, the Clock Tower, the Hong Kong Museum of Art and the Hong Kong Space Museum, into an immersive stage of light and sound. Featuring Christmas-themed projections, captivating northern lights-inspired visuals, and reimagined Christmas classics, the experience will bring together dazzling light displays and uplifting melodies to create a vibrant festive spectacle along the Tsim Sha Tsui Promenade, free for all to enjoy.

Hong Kong WinterFest ─ “Hong Kong Winter Wonderland in Tsim Sha Tsui” Event Details

Hashtag: #Prudential

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

About Prudential Hong Kong Limited

Prudential has been serving the people of Hong Kong since 1964. Through Prudential Hong Kong Limited and Prudential General Insurance Hong Kong Limited, the Company provides a range of financial planning services and products, including individual life insurance, investment-linked insurance, retirement solutions, health and medical protection, general insurance, and employee benefits to protect over 1.41 million customers in Hong Kong. Beyond Hong Kong, Prudential serves the Macau community through its branch, offering health insurance and financial solutions to complete its footprint in the Greater Bay Area. Visit www.prudential.com.hk for more information.

• The full 2027 MICHELIN Guide Thailand Selection reaches record-high numbers with 507 entries, including 53 MICHELIN-Starred establishments. Marking both the Guide’s 10^th edition in Thailand and the centenary of the MICHELIN Star, the 2027 edition reflects the evolution, resilience, and extraordinary potential of the country’s culinary industry.
• The newly released Guide features 2 Three MICHELIN Stars, 10 Two MICHELIN Stars, 41 One MICHELIN Star, 151 MICHELIN Bib Gourmand, and 303 MICHELIN-Selected dining venues.
• This edition highlights the decentralization of Thailand’s food scene and the unprecedented strength of regional markets, with the first-ever MICHELIN-Starred restaurant in Chiang Mai and the first-ever Two-MICHELIN-Starred restaurant in Phuket.

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 November 2025 – Michelin today unveiled the MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2027 at the MICHELIN Guide Restaurant Ceremony Thailand, marking two significant milestones: the Guide’s landmark 10^th edition in the country and the centenary of the MICHELIN Star. Reflecting a decade of evolution in Thailand’s vibrant culinary landscape, the latest selection features a record-high total of 507 dining establishments − including 2 Three MICHELIN Stars (both retaining their status), 10 Two MICHELIN Stars (3 promotions), 41 One MICHELIN Star (5 newcomers and 5 promotions), 151 MICHELIN Bib Gourmand (26 newcomers), and 303 MICHELIN-Selected entries (40 newcomers).

Gwendal Poullennec, International Director of the MICHELIN Guide commented: “With more than 500 establishments featured in the selection − including over 50 MICHELIN-Starred restaurants, the 2027 edition marks a significant milestone in the MICHELIN Guide Thailand’s journey. Celebrating the Guide’s 10^th edition in Thailand and the centenary of the MICHELIN Star, first introduced in 1926, the selection reflects the remarkable evolution of Thailand’s culinary industry, driven by the passion, creativity, and resilience of its culinary professionals, as well as the country’s extraordinary gastronomic potential.”

Insights into Thailand’s Evolving Gastronomic Landscape

According to Mr. Poullennec, Thailand’s gastronomic scene has evolved from a trend-driven market into a mature and diverse culinary ecosystem. Excellence now extends far beyond the capital, with star-rated restaurants flourishing across the country and showcasing the strength of regional dining destinations.

Chefs are demonstrating greater confidence and individuality, while international restaurant groups continue to establish roots in Thailand and embrace local ingredients. This year’s selection introduces new cuisine types to the star-rated roster, while Thai chefs are increasingly exploring regional traditions, indigenous ingredients, and closer ties with local producers.

Techniques such as fermentation, aging, and natural umami extraction have become common tools for building flavor, while more thoughtful ingredient use reflects growing resourcefulness. Beyond fine dining, chefs are also finding success through more accessible formats and increasingly sophisticated beverage programs.

Guided by both experienced chefs and emerging talent, Thailand continues to strengthen its culinary identity while embracing global influences, reinforcing its position as one of the world’s most compelling gastronomic destinations.

Sorn and Sühring Reaffirm Their Excellence with Three MICHELIN Stars

In the 2027 MICHELIN Guide Thailand edition, the prestigious Three-MICHELIN-Star category remains unchanged with 2 entries: Sorn, where Chef Supaksorn “Ice” Jongsiri showcases the depth and diversity of Southern Thai cuisine through meticulously researched recipes and exceptional local ingredients, and Sühring, where twin chefs Thomas and Mathias Sühring continue to impress with their refined interpretation of modern German cuisine rooted in family traditions.

3 Restaurants Promoted to Two MICHELIN Stars, Including a Historic First for Phuket and Thailand’s Regional Dining Scene

The Two-MICHELIN-Star category welcomes 3 new additions, all promoted from the One-MICHELIN-Star status. A milestone achievement comes from PRU, which becomes the first restaurant in Phuket and the first outside Bangkok & Surrounding Provinces to earn Two MICHELIN Stars.

▪ Bangkok & Surrounding Provinces:

• Blue by Alain Ducasse, a restaurant that stays true to the spirit of French fine dining, interweaving Southeast Asian ingredients with Mediterranean flair and a fresh, lighter, international perspective, complemented by the seasonal “Delight Collection” of creative small desserts.
• Mia, a restaurant offering storytelling-driven modern European cuisine with Asian influences, where dishes such as the hybrid sourdough brioche carry personal significance beyond their culinary craft.

▪ Phuket

• PRU, a restaurant crafting modern Thai cuisine with a strong sense of place, championing mindfulness through farm-grown ingredients, trusted Thai suppliers, and a commitment to fermentation, preservation and responsible practices, exemplified by its signature “King of the Fruits” pairing durian with caviar and sea grapes.

10 Restaurants Join the One-MICHELIN-Star Selection, Including Chiang Mai’s First-Ever MICHELIN-Starred Restaurant

Among the 10 new One-MICHELIN-Star entries, 5 are newcomers joining the Guide for the first time, while the other 5 are promoted from the MICHELIN-Selected category.

Promoted from MICHELIN-Selected to One MICHELIN Star, Belén by Paulo Airaudo becomes the first-ever MICHELIN-Starred restaurant in Chiang Mai. Meanwhile, Phuket records its strongest MICHELIN Star showing to date, with one newcomer, Omemo, and one promoted restaurant, Jaras, joining the One-MICHELIN-Star selection.

▪ Bangkok & Surrounding Provinces

• Liana, a restaurant where dishes are inspired by European seasons, combining local produce, a lighter take on French techniques, and neatly layered flavors and textures, with desserts among the highlights.
• MACHRI, a restaurant where chef reinterprets a royal Thai menu inspired by King Rama V’s 1897 European food diary, combining deep historical research and French technique while preserving authentically Thai flavors, highlighted by mackerel with roasted chili paste and sticky rice, and pigeon red curry samrap.
• THARN, a concept-led restaurant presenting a refined tasting menu inspired by Thai cuisine from Sukhothai to Rattanakosin, juxtaposing cultural references with authentic flavors, carefully sourced ingredients, and Thai GI products.
• The China House by Chef Fei, a refined Cantonese restaurant offering thoughtfully creative dishes marked by precise seasoning, clean flavors and assured technique, highlighted by roasted chicken with flax seeds that lend a subtle nuttiness to the crisp skin and juicy flesh.

▪ Phuket

• Omemo, a restaurant offering a contemporary take on classic Swiss cuisine through balanced, well-structured Alpine dishes, featuring house-made sausages, potato rösti and fondue-inspired specialties, with meat and cheese at the heart of the menu and the full experience menu offering the best insight into its culinary narrative.

The other 5 One-MICHELIN-Star recipients promoted from the MICHELIN-Selected category are:

▪ Bangkok & Surrounding Provinces

• Duet by David Toutain, a restaurant presenting a creative, delicate, and distinctly plant-forward seasonal tasting menu that balances land and sea, complemented by a carefully curated zero-proof drink pairing.
• I-SANG, a modern Korean restaurant that fuses Korean roots with Thai produce through a concise tasting menu, featuring Eo-Mandu crafted from local catfish, perilla oil Guksu, and crispy crab, a playful riff on Korean fried chicken.
• Sartoria by Paulo Airaudo, a restaurant presenting a modern Tuscan menu centered on fresh pasta and seasonal produce, blending Italian staples with Thai ingredients, highlighted by Duck Cappelletti filled with local duck confit and Basilico built around black-pepper ganache.

▪ Chiang Mai

• Belén by Paulo Airaudo, a restaurant bringing refined energy to Chiang Mai’s dining scene, elevating local ingredients through sharp European technique, with a smooth and effortlessly moreish Goat’s Cheese Flan paired with seasonal fruits among the highlights.

▪ Phuket

• Jaras, a restaurant offering a seasonal tasting menu shaped by home-grown produce, regional ingredients, and a zero-waste approach, highlighted by the Jorang featuring prawn and Thai curry sauce with crispy textures and aromatic herbs.

Five MICHELIN Special Awards Recognize Exceptional Professionals

Alongside its restaurant selection, the MICHELIN Guide presents its Special Awards to honor the exceptional talent, passion and craft behind dining experiences that stay with guests long after the final course. These awards recognize outstanding professionals at MICHELIN-recommended restaurants who elevate the gastronomic experience, while celebrating the diversity and appeal of careers across the hospitality industry.

• MICHELIN Service Award

The MICHELIN Service Award aims to recognize and celebrate skilled and talented professionals who significantly enhance the guest experience. This year’s award, presented by the Tourism Authority of Thailand, honors Chanyawi Mukmaneerattanapon of hom, a MICHELIN-Selected restaurant in Phuket.

An essential pillar of her team in Phuket since its earliest days, Ms. Mukmaneerattanapon is celebrated for her remarkable consistency, steadfast commitment, and genuinely attentive approach to service. Even when managing multiple tables, she remains proactive, fluid, and intuitive, making every guest feel effortlessly cared for. Her longevity, unwavering professional standards, and deeply personal touch exemplify the true essence of hospitality; while her grace, poise, and dedication set a high benchmark for the industry.

• MICHELIN Opening of the Year Award

The MICHELIN Opening of the Year Award recognizes an individual or team behind a dining venue that has opened within the past 12 months and made a notable impact on the local gastronomic scene through a creative degustation concept and distinctive culinary approach. This year’s award, presented by UOB, is bestowed upon Kongwuth Chaiwongkachon of Taang, a MICHELIN-Selected restaurant in Bangkok.

Since opening in June, Taang has made an immediate impression on Bangkok’s dining landscape. Led by Chef Kongwuth, a native of Chiang Rai, this intimate counter experience explores the historical caravan trade routes of northern Thailand and its neighboring regions, tracing how ingredients, people, and food cultures have influenced one another over centuries. Combining brilliant storytelling with exceptional cooking, the restaurant offers a remarkably nuanced exploration of northern Thai cuisine and has quickly become one of the city’s most exciting and talked-about new openings.

• MICHELIN Mentor Chef Award

Honoring chefs whose unwavering dedication to nurturing the next generation has made a lasting impact on the culinary industry, the 2027 MICHELIN Mentor Chef Award, presented by WP Energy, is bestowed upon Arnaud Dunand-Sauthier of Maison Dunand, a One-MICHELIN-Star restaurant in Bangkok.

Originally from Chambéry in the Savoie region of France, Chef Arnaud brought a wealth of French culinary expertise to Thailand over a decade ago. Beyond his culinary achievements, he has played a profound role as a mentor to both Thai and international talent, nurturing young professionals from commis to sous chef and fostering long-term growth within his teams. Today, his former protégés lead MICHELIN-Starred kitchens in Europe, run acclaimed establishments in France, and head major restaurant concepts across Thailand − reflecting his unwavering commitment to developing people, empowering the next generation, and building a lasting culinary legacy.

• MICHELIN Young Chef Award

Recognizing a young chef who has demonstrated a unique personality and distinctive identity through their culinary creations over the past 12 months, this year’s MICHELIN Young Chef Award is bestowed upon Natdanai Kitkorsup of lob-baan, a MICHELIN Bib Gourmand restaurant in Phuket.

Born and raised in Phuket, Chef Natdanai returned to his home region after honing his craft in leading kitchens across Bangkok – including a Two-Michelin-Star restaurant – before continuing his journey at acclaimed establishments in Phuket. His cooking reflects a profound respect for native ingredients, rich traditions, and authentic flavor profiles, blending regional heritage with refined contemporary technique. Showing impressive maturity and a style firmly rooted in his home region, Chef Natdanai stands out as a young talent helping to bring Phuket’s local cuisine forward.

• MICHELIN Sommelier Award

Highlighting the skills, knowledge, and passion of talented sommeliers within the industry, this year’s MICHELIN Sommelier Award is bestowed upon Charles Elie-Rodenstein of Cannubi by Umberto Bombana, a One-MICHELIN-Star restaurant in Bangkok.

Originally from Alsace in France, Mr. Elie-Rodenstein is a multilingual sommelier whose exceptional international journey across France, Monaco, Japan, and Thailand has shaped a deep global perspective. Knowledgeable and confident, he curates inspiring wine selections and offers thoughtful recommendations. What sets him apart is his warm, approachable manner, making the world of wine engaging and accessible; while his natural enthusiasm, professionalism, and personal touch elevate the entire dining experience.

Discover the full 2027 MICHELIN Guide Thailand Selection:
MICHELIN Guide Website

CLICK HERE to download images of the from the
MICHELIN Guide Restaurant Ceremony Thailand 2027.

The MICHELIN Guide Thailand 2027 at a Glance:

https://guide.michelin.com/th/en
https://www.facebook.com/MichelinGuideAsia
https://www.instagram.com/michelinguide
https://www.youtube.com/MICHELINGuideAsia

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

About Michelin:

Michelin is building a world-leading manufacturer of life-changing composites and experiences. Pioneering engineered materials for more than 130 years, Michelin is uniquely positioned to make decisive contributions to human progress and to a more sustainable world. Drawing on its deep know-how in polymer composites, Michelin is constantly innovating to manufacture high-quality tires and components for critical applications in demanding fields as varied as mobility, construction, aeronautics, low-carbon energies, and healthcare. The care placed in its products and deep customer knowledge inspire Michelin to offer the finest experiences. This spans from providing data- and AI-based connected solutions for professional fleets to recommending outstanding restaurants and hotels curated by the MICHELIN Guide. Headquartered in Clermont-Ferrand, France, Michelin is present in 175 countries and employs 122,600 people. (www.michelin.com).

By Dr Arun Mitra When discussing India, it is important to recognize that two fundamentally opposing ideologies are currently engaged in a direct confrontation. One thrives on hatred, division and violence, while the other stands for secularism, love, harmony and the creation of a just and egalitarian society. It is, therefore, essential to examine not […]

The article Far Right Defeat In U.S. Mid Term Polls Has Lessons For Indian Polity appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 November 2026 – Residential fires in Singapore remain a pressing concern for homeowners. Recent data shows that total fires increased 3% year-on-year, rising from 1,990 in 2024 to 2,050 in 2025, with unattended cooking and electrical faults continuing to rank as the most common causes.

As these numbers climb, Allianz Insurance Singapore is encouraging homeowners to take a proactive look at their home insurance in Singapore and ensure their coverage reflects the full value of what is inside their home.

For HDB flat owners, the compulsory HDB Fire Insurance Scheme provides a strong foundation, covering the cost of reinstating internal structures, fixtures, and fittings originally provided by HDB. This is valuable protection that ensures the flat itself can be restored after a fire.

But what about the renovation that took months to plan? The furniture, the electronics, the personal belongings accumulated over the years? These sit outside the scope of the compulsory scheme, along with alternative accommodation and personal liability. In other words, HDB fire insurance protects the structure of the home. It does not cover what homeowners have invested inside it.

For homeowners looking to extend their protection beyond the compulsory scheme, there are options available. Allianz Home Protect is a comprehensive home insurance plan that picks up where the compulsory scheme leaves off. It covers loss or damage to home contents and personal belongings caused by fire, water damage, theft, and a range of other covered perils, with renovations covered up to S$150,000 and home contents up to S$100,000, with optional add-ons available to extend coverage further.

If a family needs somewhere to stay while their home is being repaired, the plan provides for that too. For added peace of mind, homeowners are also covered by worldwide personal liability of up to S$2,000,000 should damage from their property affect others. Plans start from S$8.18 per month, inclusive of 9% GST.

As residential fires continue to rise, homeowners may wish to review whether their current coverage reflects the full value of the home they have built.

For more information on Allianz Home Protect, visit: https://www.allianz.sg/individual-solutions/allianz-home-protect.html

Coverage is subject to the terms, conditions, and exclusions of the Allianz Home Protect policy. Please refer to the Policy Wording for full details. This policy is protected under the Policy Owners’ Protection Scheme which is administered by the Singapore Deposit Insurance Corporation (SDIC). This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.
Hashtag: #AllianzInsuranceSingapore

https://www.allianz.sg/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/allianzinsuressg/
https://www.facebook.com/allianzsg
https://www.instagram.com/allianz.sg/

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

About Allianz Insurance Singapore Pte. Ltd.

At Allianz Insurance Singapore, we aim to secure the future and create a positive impact on society and the environment by leveraging our expertise in risk management. As we work toward strengthening our position as one of Singapore’s leading risk solutions providers, we deliver innovative and customer‑focused protection solutions for individuals, SMEs, and mid‑corporate clients – spanning Motor, Home Content, Travel, Personal Accident, Cancer, Hospital Income, and a comprehensive suite of commercial insurance offerings.

Windsurfing holds a remarkable historical position in Hong Kong sporting history: in 1996, it brought the city its first-ever Olympic gold medal. As a local enterprise with Hong Kong roots, Lee Kum Kee supports this iconic sport by sponsoring this year’s Circuit and helping to nurture the next generation of local windsurfing talent.

As a premier local windsurfing competition, the iQFOiL Championships circuit began in February and continued through the year, comprising five exciting races across divisions such as Men’s and Women’s Open, U19 Youth, U17 Junior, and U15 Youth/Children. The races were held at well-known sites including Clearwater Bay, Wu Kai Sha, Tolo Harbour, Cheung Chau and Stanley, testing competitors’ techniques and adaptability while serving as a vital stage for accumulating annual ranking points and selecting representatives for international competitions.

Dodie Hung, Executive Vice President – Corporate Affairs of Lee Kum Kee Sauce, said: “As a century-old company with Hong Kong roots, Lee Kum Kee is honoured to be Gold Sponsor of the 2026/27 iQFOiL Championships and to help nurture the next generation of local windsurfing talent. Windsurfing has no fixed course and the wind conditions can change at any moment, so athletes must make immediate judgements and adjustments on the fly. This ability to continuously challenge oneself and forge ahead echoes Lee Kum Kee’s value of ‘Constant Entrepreneurship’ – having the courage to seize opportunities and drive continuous innovation.”

Mr Chau Ngai Man, President of the Windsurfing Association of Hong Kong, China, said: “We are grateful for Lee Kum Kee’s support, which is vital to the development of windsurfing. Lee Kum Kee’s sponsorship gives athletes a world-class local competitive platform and helps them build their form as they prepare to take on major international competitions.”

In addition to supporting this competition, Lee Kum Kee also served as a sponsor for the Hong Kong, China Sailing Team, helping it achieve great success at the 20^th Asian Games in Japan and the 15^th National Games in China in 2025. Lee Kum Kee will continue to support major sporting events in Hong Kong, including the 2027 Hong Kong Dragon World Championship, which will make its Asia debut from 21-29 November 2026.
Hashtag: #LeeKumKee #iQFOiLChampionships

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

About Lee Kum Kee Sauce

Lee Kum Kee Sauce is the global gateway to Asian culinary culture, dedicated to promoting Chinese culinary culture worldwide. Since 1888, it has brought people together over joyful reunions, shared traditions, and memorable meals. Beloved by consumers and chefs alike, Lee Kum Kee Sauce’s range of more than 300 sauces and condiments sparks creativity in kitchens everywhere, inspiring professional and home chefs to experiment, create, and delight. Headquartered in Hong Kong, China and serving over 100 countries and regions, Lee Kum Kee Sauce’s rich heritage, unwavering commitment to quality, sustainable practices, and “Constant Entrepreneurship” combine to enable superior experiences through Asian cuisine for people worldwide.

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

The investment represents a strong vote of confidence from international investors in Australian automotive AI innovation, providing fresh capital to accelerate AI WINGMAN’s development and support its growth ambitions.

As AI reshapes the automotive retail landscape, AI WINGMAN is bringing a new level of intelligence and automation to dealership operations. Designed to help dealerships engage every customer at the right moment, the Australian-developed platform combines conversational AI with intelligent lead and customer engagement to capture more opportunities, strengthen customer relationships and drive sales growth.

The announcement follows the platform’s showcases at the AADA (Australian Automotive Dealer Association) Convention & Expo in Sydney in July and at AIMCONNECT 2026 in Singapore in October, highlighting growing industry interest in AI-powered dealership solutions.

Australian AI innovation attracts international strategic backing

Mr Lei Shen, Director of AI WINGMAN, said the investment reflects growing recognition of the potential of purpose-built AI solutions to transform how automotive dealerships engage with their customers across the entire ownership lifecycle.

“Artificial intelligence is transforming how businesses engage with customers, and the automotive industry is no exception. Today’s dealerships face more intense competition and more complex market conditions, yet many valuable sales opportunities are still lost through neglected or delayed engagement.

“AI WINGMAN was developed to address this challenge by turning untapped dealership data into actionable insights, while allowing sales teams to focus their valuable time on building relationships and converting high-potential leads.

“X Star’s strategic investment is a strong endorsement of our technology and vision. It provides a solid foundation to accelerate innovation and bring Australian-developed automotive AI solutions to a broader regional market.”

X Star Technology is a Singapore-headquartered automotive finance technology company with operations spanning Asia Pacific, Latin America and the Middle East.

Already being used by dealerships franchising leading automotive brands including BYD, Zeekr, Land Rover and Kia, AI WINGMAN demonstrates how Australian-developed AI technology can be applied to real-world challenges in automotive retail.

Hashtag: #AutoSwift #AIWINGMAN

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

The registration reinforces PhotonPay’s regulatory foundation for payment activities in Canada, with requirements covering operational risk management, incident response and the safeguarding of end-user funds.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 10 November 2025 – PhotonPay today announced that its Canadian operating entity, Photon Dance CA Inc., is now registered with the Bank of Canada as a payment service provider (PSP) under Canada’s Retail Payment Activities Act (RPAA). The entity was previously registered with the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) as a Money Services Business (MSB). The RPAA registration further strengthens PhotonPay’s regulatory foundation in Canada and supports its continued development of local financial services across North America.

The RPAA establishes a federal framework for the registration and supervision of PSPs conducting specified retail payment activities in Canada. Administered by the Bank of Canada, it sets requirements for operational risk management, incident response and regulatory reporting. PSPs that hold end-user funds are also required to implement measures to safeguard those funds, strengthening oversight and accountability across Canada’s retail payments ecosystem.

The Canadian registration adds to PhotonPay’s broader regulatory presence across North America. In the United States, PhotonPay is registered as a Money Services Business with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) and holds money transmitter licenses across multiple U.S. states. Across the Americas, Europe and Asia, PhotonPay holds 35 payment licenses, regulatory authorizations and registrations, reflecting the regulatory breadth behind its operations across key financial markets.

For PhotonPay, building a global financial operating system requires more than connecting payment capabilities across markets. It also means developing the local regulatory and financial infrastructure needed to support those capabilities in each jurisdiction. As businesses expand internationally, their financial operations increasingly span different account structures, payment systems, currencies and regulatory environments. Bringing these functions together requires infrastructure that can address local market requirements while giving businesses a more unified way to manage their global finances.

This is the vision behind PhotonPay’s next-generation Financial OS. Through an integrated, API-first architecture, PhotonPay brings together multi-asset wallets, local collections, global payouts, foreign exchange, card issuing and embedded finance. By supporting both fiat currencies and stablecoins within its broader financial infrastructure, the platform connects traditional payment rails with emerging digital-asset capabilities, helping businesses manage increasingly complex financial operations across markets.

“Global financial infrastructure must be designed around the realities of the markets it serves. Regulatory frameworks, payment systems and the responsibilities involved in handling funds differ across jurisdictions, and these differences need to be accounted for at the infrastructure level,” said JP Pi, Global Chief Compliance Officer at PhotonPay. “Our approach is to build a Financial OS that brings together global capabilities while respecting the regulatory and operational requirements of each local market. The RPAA registration is another step in putting that approach into practice, as we continue developing infrastructure to support businesses operating across an increasingly interconnected financial landscape.”

Hashtag: #PhotonPay

https://www.photonpay.com

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

About PhotonPay

Founded in Hong Kong in 2015, PhotonPay is a global fintech company building a next-generation, stablecoin-centric Financial Operating System (Financial OS). Its API-first architecture brings together multi-asset wallets supporting stablecoins and fiat currencies, global money movement, foreign exchange, global card issuing, embedded finance, and local clearing infrastructure, connecting digital and traditional financial rails within an integrated financial system.

PhotonPay operates 16 offices worldwide, employs nearly 600 people, and holds 35 payment and financial licenses and regulatory authorizations across the Americas, Europe and Asia. The company serves businesses across more than 200 countries and territories.

For more information, visit www.photonpay.com.

The trend began with Kim Hee-sun’s visit, followed by Korean creators exploring boat rides, heritage workshops, Xizha’s night scenery and waterfront breakfasts. Their experiences offered international audiences a glimpse into traditional Chinese culture and Wuzhen’s charm.

Why Wuzhen? Located in Jiaxing, Zhejiang Province, it is among China’s first designated Historic and Cultural Towns, a national 5A tourist attraction and the permanent host of the World Internet Conference Wuzhen Summit. Its canals, stone bridges and traditional houses embody Jiangnan’s water town scenery. Dongzha preserves local customs, while Xizha offers nighttime sightseeing, waterfront accommodation and resort facilities. The Wuzhen Theatre Festival and Mu Xin Art Museum connect heritage with contemporary culture. Connections to Shanghai and Hangzhou make Wuzhen accessible to international visitors.

For Korean creators, Wuzhen offers more than scenery. Visitors can explore traditional craftsmanship at blue calico dyeing workshops and Yida Silk Workshop, sample local pastries such as gusao bing and dingsheng gao, and watch Dongzha’s boat-based martial arts and high-pole performances. These experiences bring local traditions to life.

Traditional sculling boats capture Wuzhen’s unhurried rhythm, gliding past whitewashed houses, stone bridges and waterfront homes. Mornings bring tea gatherings and floating markets; afternoons invite visits to Lingshui Residence and Zhaoming Academy. At dusk, Xizha’s illuminated canals create a peaceful setting before an overnight stay at a waterfront guesthouse.

Growing Korean interest also reflects changing travel preferences. With easier travel between China and South Korea, visitors increasingly seek cultural immersion, relaxation and longer stays. Wuzhen has improved international card payments, currency exchange and multilingual services. Travelers are moving beyond sightseeing toward experiencing everyday local life, supported by the town’s heritage and hospitality facilities.

From celebrity visits to social media sharing, the “Wuzhen route” offers East Asian urban travelers a chance to slow down. Whether enjoying a boat ride, traditional craft or waterfront overnight stay, visitors from Korea and beyond are invited to discover China’s water town lifestyle. Come to Wuzhen and spend a day at your own pace.

Hashtag: #Wuzhen

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

By Nantoo Banerjee Indian democracy is witnessing an interesting development under which the ruling party at the Centre is holding counter public rallies in states under the banner ‘Loktantra Bachao, Arajakta Hatao (Save Democracy, Remove Anarchy) following the opposition INDIA bloc’s massive demonstration at Delhi’s Ramlila Maidan against the elected national government. A somewhat similar […]

The article Public Protests Challenge Elected Power In Europe And India appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

By Ashok Nilakantan Ayers WASHIGTON DC: The battle for the Republican Party’s 2028 presidential nomination has effectively begun. But the real contest is not merely about personalities. It is about whether the GOP will perpetuate Trump’s divisive political legacy or reinvent itself before voters deliver another electoral rebuke. The Republican Party is discovering an uncomfortable […]

The article Republicans Struggling To Come Out Of Nov 3 Debacle To Prepare For 2028 Prez Polls appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

Dr. Krithpaka Boonfueng, Executive Director of the National Innovation Agency (NIA), said that National Innovation Day remains an essential annual forum dedicated to commemorating the royal grace, genius, and enduring innovation legacy of King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great. The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation strongly believes that human capital is the cornerstone of building an innovation-driven society. Consequently, the NIA prioritizes workforce upskilling across all generations alongside deploying technology and innovation to mitigate inequality, expand economic opportunities, enhance quality of life, and sharpen national competitiveness. This mission accelerates Thailand’s transition from a mere consumer of technology into a prolific creator of high-value innovation. The event serves not only as a platform to recognize trailblazers, but also as a catalyst to foster widespread awareness, stimulate active technology adoption, showcase Thai ingenuity on the world stage, and collectively advance Thailand toward becoming a sustainable “Innovation Nation.”

“The National Innovation Awards represent the highest distinction in Thailand’s innovation landscape. They celebrate Thai innovators whose pioneering work delivers clear, measurable value to the country, sparking pride and creative momentum across all sectors while elevating our national image as an emerging Innovation Nation,” stated Dr. Krithpaka. “Now in its 22nd year, the competition reflects a rapid leap forward in domestic innovation capability, keeping pace with an evolving global landscape. Historically, more than 6,736 submissions have entered the awards, with over 370 projects recognized, collectively generating an economic, social, and environmental impact valued at over 138 billion baht.”

Dr. Krithpaka highlighted three winning innovations from the 2026 National Innovation Awards that exemplify success across economic, social, and environmental dimensions, underscoring Thai entrepreneurs’ capacity to combine deep technology with commercial viability:

1. BUZZEBEES: Elevating CRM through AI to Boost Marketing Efficiency and Business Growth Developed by Buzzebees Co., Ltd., this end-to-end customer relationship management (CRM) and online engagement platform secured first prize in the Economic category (Large and Medium Enterprise division). Powered by advanced AI algorithms, the platform streamlines customer data management, consumer behavior analytics, and precision-targeted marketing campaigns. It empowers enterprises to connect with target demographics accurately, retain customer bases, and unlock new revenue streams.

The comprehensive suite encompasses loyalty and points-redemption programs, payment and order management workflows tailored for SMEs and restaurants, and e-commerce channel operations, alongside targeted digital media and affiliate marketing powered by a vast influencer and Key Opinion Leader (KOL) network. By leveraging real-time business diagnostics and automated campaign personalization, the platform can deploy fully functional solutions within just five business days—a 20-fold reduction in turnaround time compared to traditional development cycles that often require up to 100 days.

Currently, BUZZEBEES supports over 500 enterprise platforms, more than 1,500 SME and merchant networks, and an aggregate user base exceeding 200 million consumer and distributor accounts. Notable deployments include Tops’ personalized loyalty platform, which serves over 210,000 active users and has processed more than 40 million reward redemptions. In 2025, the company generated over 2 billion baht annually in gross merchandise value (GMV) through international affiliate channels, saved domestic corporations over 600 million baht annually by replacing reliance on foreign enterprise software, posted 2.964 billion baht in total revenue, and created an average of 260 local tech jobs annually.

2. INSPECTRA MMG: Deep-Learning AI for Mammography Analysis Enhancing Breast Cancer Screening Developed by Perceptra Co., Ltd., INSPECTRA MMG captured first prize in the Social category (Large and Medium Enterprise division). The diagnostic-support AI system assists radiologists in interpreting screening mammograms, specifically targeting the diagnostic complexities posed by dense breast tissue—a characteristic prevalent among Asian women that frequently obscures underlying lesions in standard screenings.

Trained on a proprietary dataset of more than 400,000 mammographic images from Thai cohorts, INSPECTRA MMG detects subtle indicators of malignancy to assist clinical decision-making. Deployed in Thai clinical settings for over three years across more than 220,000 processed patient cases, the tool reduces radiologists’ workloads, optimizes diagnostic throughput, and democratizes access to early cancer detection in medically underserved provinces. Validation data submitted by the company demonstrates an impressive Cancer Detection Rate of 97%, validating AI’s efficacy as a clinical decision-support asset while maintaining physician oversight as the ultimate diagnostic authority. Looking ahead, Perceptra plans to expand outreach via mobile mammography screening units for remote communities, implement an annual software-as-a-service (SaaS) subscription model to fund continued R&D, and scale operations into broader Southeast Asian healthcare markets.

3. MyraShell Aroma: Upcycling Marine Shell Waste into Sustainable Luxury Bio-Materials Developed by Manee Mongkol Gems Factory Co., Ltd., “MyraShell Aroma – Sea of Love” won top honors in the Environmental category (Micro & Small Enterprise, and Social Enterprise division). The initiative upcycles discarded green mussel shells sourced from coastal fishing communities into high-value decorative bio-materials under circular economy principles, effectively curbing coastal waste while establishing sustainable secondary income streams for local artisanal fishers.

The innovation isolates nacre (mother-of-pearl) and calcium carbonate fractions from marine shells, formulating them with bio-based binding polymers and precision engineering techniques into durable, aesthetically sophisticated materials suitable for fine jewelry and luxury decor. MyraShell Aroma features a calibrated micro-porous surface that absorbs and disperses fragrances ambiently without electricity, designed for repeated aromatic refills.

The company has expanded its portfolio under the MyraShell and MyraGem brands to supply interior panels, lighting fixtures, and architectural finishes to luxury five-star hospitality brands. Manee Mongkol Gems collaborates with the Chonburi Fisheries Association and the Sawang Pratheep Community Enterprise for ethical raw material sourcing, complete with origin-traceability protocols, and partners with Kasetsart University on material validation with research grant backing from the NIA. The breakthrough gained international acclaim at Milan Design Week at Superstudio Events in Milan, Italy, where the team exhibited a 3×3-meter “Sea of Love” feature wall. Capitalizing on sustainable luxury storytelling, the company is actively expanding its direct export channels across Italy, Germany, France, and Hong Kong.

Supporting Broader Innovation Ecosystems Alongside the flagship honors, the ceremony presented accolades across complementary specialized initiatives:

• The 22nd National Innovation Awards: Organized directly by the NIA to honor impact across five dedicated pillars: Economy, Society, Environment, Innovation Communicator, and Innovative Organization. The 2026 edition drew 437 competitive submissions.
• The 26th Innovation Thailand Awards: Co-organized with the Science Society of Thailand under the Patronage of His Majesty the King, this initiative fosters youth-led innovation and guides intellectual property toward viable commercialization across two academic tiers: Higher Vocational/Undergraduate and Vocational/Secondary levels (attracting 494 entries).
• The 18th Thai Rice Innovation Awards: Co-hosted with the Thai Rice Foundation under Royal Patronage to incentivize high-value product transformation and process innovation across the rice value chain. Awards were conferred across Industrial and Community Enterprise categories, drawing 82 submissions.

Serving as the nation’s “Focal Conductor,” the NIA continues to align with domestic and international partners through its core Groom – Grant – Growth – Global framework. This integrated strategy aims to expand Thailand’s cohort of market-ready innovation-driven enterprises (IDEs), catalyze economic value creation, and fortify national competitiveness to firmly cement Thailand’s standing as an internationally recognized Innovation Nation.

Hashtag: #NIA

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