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Gandakan Kebaikan transforms nationwide kindness into real homes, delivering meaningful and lasting impact.
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 April 2026 – Tropicana Twister’s ‘Gandakan Kebaikan’ campaign has reached a defining milestone with the completion and handover of homes to families in need, marking a tangible outcome of a nationwide movement built on everyday acts of kindness.
Developed in partnership with EPIC Homes, the initiative contributes towards the building of up to 100 homes for underserved communities, including Orang Asli families across Malaysia. What began during Ramadan as a simple call to do good has since translated into safe, liveable spaces that provide families with protection, stability and a chance to move forward.
“Gandakan Kebaikan reflects our belief that meaningful change happens when communities come together with a shared purpose,” said Aditya Sheoran, PepsiCo Franchise Senior Director. “Through this initiative, we’re building homes and helping to create stronger foundations for families to thrive, today and for the future.”
Jennifer Lee, Head of Marketing, PepsiCo Malaysia Beverages, shared, “This is where intention becomes impact. Tropicana Twister’s Gandakan Kebaikan campaign started as individual acts of kindness, and now, the result is visible, that Malaysians are and will continue to show up for one another.”
“Families living in unsafe homes live in constant worry, especially during heavy rain. An EPIC Home gives them a place where they can feel secure. It goes beyond being just a shelter – a safe home gives peace of mind, stability, and the hope for a better future.” said Nadhira Halim, (Asst. Manager, Fundraising & Partnership, EPIC Homes).
More than just physical structures, these homes create a sense of security and dignity, while giving families a stable environment to rebuild their lives. Built with the support of volunteers and local communities, each home reflects a collective effort that goes far beyond a single campaign.
While ‘Gandakan Kebaikan’ was rooted in the spirit of Ramadan, its impact continues to extend far beyond the festive season. By focusing on long-term community needs, Tropicana Twister reinforces its commitment to creating meaningful and lasting change.
“As a brand, we believe in the power of collective goodness. This project is about turning that belief into action and bringing people together to create lasting impact,” added Jennifer. “Just like every beam and plank forms a home, each of you is a vital piece in building this journey.”
With the completion of these homes, ‘Gandakan Kebaikan’ continues to build on its mission of supporting underserved communities across Malaysia, proving that collective goodwill can create an impact that lasts beyond a moment.
For more information, visit Tropicana Twister’s Facebook page @MYTropicana and watch here on YouTube to see the impact unfold.
Hashtag: #TropicanaTwister
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About PepsiCo
PepsiCo products are enjoyed by consumers more than one billion times a day in more than 200 countries and territories around the world. PepsiCo generated more than $86 billion in net revenue in 2022, driven by a complimentary beverage and convenient foods portfolio that includes Tropicana, Lay’s, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Mountain Dew, Quaker, and SodaStream. PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including many iconic brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.
Guiding PepsiCo is our vision to be the Global Leader in Beverages and Convenient Foods by Winning with pep+ (PepsiCo Positive). pep+ is our strategic end-to-end transformation that puts sustainability and human capital at the centre of how we will create value and growth by operating within planetary boundaries and inspiring positive change cafor the planet and people. For more information, visit www.pepsico.com, and follow on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @PepsiCo.
SHENZHEN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 April 2026 – OPPO officially announced the launch of the OPPO Photography Awards 2026 today, marking the return of the annual competition that provides a global stage for mobile photographers to showcase diverse perspectives through visual storytelling.
OPPO Photography Awards 2026 Key Visual, featuring original photography by Hasselblad Master Tina Signesdottir Hult, shot on OPPO Find X9 Ultra.
Building on last year’s theme “Super Every Moment”, this year’s edition introduces a brand-new Super Video category alongside expanded support programs offering creators more visibility and professional support. This year’s competition also includes a total prize pool of $76,500 distributed across the various prize categories.
“Over the past four years, the OPPO Photography Awards has evolved into a truly global platform that empowers mobile creators everywhere to express their inspiration effortlessly through OPPO’s powerful imaging capabilities,” said Ling Liu, Overseas CMO at OPPO. “Championing young creators has always been central to the Awards, and this year, we are taking this further by creating more opportunities for the next generation to be seen, supported, and recognized. Smartphone users have always embraced video as a powerful tool for mobile storytelling, and through our advanced imaging technologies and long-term partnership with Hasselblad, we hope to empower more creators worldwide to tell rich and authentic stories with their mobile devices.”
New Categories Celebrate New Possibilities in Mobile Imaging
The OPPO Photography Awards 2026 introduces two new categories—Super Video and Super Zoom—as part of an updated six-category lineup that also includes Journey, Me, Live, and Snap.
Six categories, including the new Super Video and Super Zoom.
Marking the first dedicated video category in OPPO Photography Awards history, the Super Video category aims to highlight the growing influence of video alongside photography as a distinct medium for mobile storytelling. With life’s meaningful moments taking place not only in static frames but the dynamic motion and emotions that unfold between them, OPPO is empowering storytellers from all walks of life to capture this motion through the latest innovations in mobile videography. Building on its longstanding focus on video, OPPO continues to deliver industry-leading capabilities across its product portfolio, enabling both enthusiasts and professionals to fully embrace the fun of creation.
Beyond offering cutting-edge technology, OPPO is equally committed to enhancing how these creations are shared. OPPO and Meta are closely collaborating to optimize the video-sharing experience on Instagram. OPPO Find X9 Ultra users can now achieve near-lossless video quality from capture to share. Videos shared on Instagram will retain quality virtually indistinguishable from the original footage, achieving the industry’s highest standards and ensuring that every shared moment remains true to the original creation. This reflects OPPO’s continued focus on optimizing the entire creative lifecycle for a truly seamless user experience.
This year’s other new category, Super Zoom, seeks to explore the creative potential made possible through OPPO’s long-term investment in advanced telescope zoom technology. By pushing the boundaries of mobile imaging, OPPO has brought smartphone zoom capabilities closer than ever to those of traditional standalone cameras, allowing users to capture unseen details with precision and explore life’s hidden beauty from completely new perspectives.
Committed to Supporting Young Creators
OPPO is committed to supporting young creative talents and amplifying their voices globally. Through the 2026 Awards, this commitment is taken even further with several new programs designed to empower creators’ long-term growth through professional guidance and coaching.
In partnership with Discovery Channel, OPPO has launched the Filmmaker Accelerator Program, offering young creators exclusive mentorship from industry professionals. Creators who submit videos to the Super Video category will have the chance to be invited to produce a short film with end-to-end creative support and potential broadcast opportunities, alongside a grant provided by OPPO.
OPPO and Discovery Channel launch the Filmmaker Accelerator Program.
OPPO is also extending support to the wider creator community through a range of accessible learning resources. Among them, the new OPPO Imaging Academy features a series of tutorial videos designed to help users tap into the full power of OPPO’s cutting-edge technology to transform creative inspiration into artistry.
In addition to these initiatives, the OPPO Creators program further expands visibility and creates more professional development opportunities for young creators. Through the program, outstanding works will be showcased across various OPPO platforms, and creators will also gain priority invitations to flagship launches and collaboration opportunities, along with complimentary professional equipment to support their ongoing development.
Opening Diverse Pathways for Creators Worldwide
As part of efforts to recognize a wider range of creators and expand participation in the Awards, the OPPO Photography Awards 2026 introduces a diverse awards program that gives creators more opportunities to gain global exposure and showcase their work on a bigger stage.
In addition to the Gold, Silver, and Bronze Awards up for grabs in the main competition, participants can also earn recognition and generous incentives through Honorable Mentions, Regional Awards, and the Audience Choice Awards. A total of 38 different awards or acknowledgements are on offer recognizing outstanding creators across all categories, with a total prize pool of $76,500.
Total prizes of $76,500 across 38 award categories.
The year’s judging panel also brings together renowned industry professionals in both photography and cinematography, including Tina Signesdottir Hult and Wang Jianjun, Hasselblad Masters; Vikram Channa, Vice President, Co-Lead, and Editorial Chief at Warner Bros. Discovery; Zhu Jiong, Professor at the School of Visual Media and Communication, Beijing Film Academy; Pete Lau, Senior Vice President and Chief Product Officer at OPPO; and Joy Cheng, Director of Imaging Cognition at OPPO.
Members of the awards’ judging panel.
To further encourage participation, the 2026 Awards also introduces a new monthly contest format. Through the new format, young creators can receive feedback and more visibility on an ongoing basis, while also having the opportunity to progress into the main competition.
Global Competition Submissions Open Until December 31
Submissions for the OPPO Photography Awards 2026 and the first round of monthly contests are now open. Creators worldwide are invited to submit their entries and showcase their creativity and storytelling visions captured on OPPO, OnePlus or realme devices.
Entries for the global competition will remain open until 24:00 (UTC+8), December 31, 2026. Submissions for all categories can be made via the official OPPO Photography Awards website. Submissions for the Super Video category can also be made through Instagram and TikTok using the hashtags #SuperVideo and #ShotOnOPPO.
Entries for the first global monthly contest can be submitted via the official website or on Instagram with the hashtags #SuperEveryMoment and #ShotOnOPPO. Upcoming monthly contests will feature different themes, with future submissions accepted through both social platforms and the official website.
For more information on the OPPO Photography Awards 2026 and the monthly contests, please visit the official website at https://lumo.oppo.com/en/. Hashtag: #OPPO
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Joining Forces to Build a New Regional Value Chain and Drive Industrial Upgrading across ASEAN
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 April 2026 – Hong Kong has long maintained a robust bilateral relationship with Malaysia. As ASEAN’s third-largest economy, Malaysia possesses strong manufacturing and service sectors and stands as Hong Kong’s eighth-largest trading partner. Amidst the global restructuring of supply chains, Hong Kong leverages its unique position as an international innovation and technology centre anchored by its regional connectivity while remaining integrated with the world. It serves as a vital springboard and strategic hub for Malaysian enterprises expanding into regional markets and for emerging firms seeking to go global. The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) and the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturing (FMM) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking the establishment of a deep strategic partnership. By integrating the resource advantages of both regions, the collaboration will provide technological innovation and market expansion support for enterprises in Hong Kong and Malaysia, optimising global supply chain layouts and helping Hong Kong better implement the “Bringing in and Going Global” strategy to seize regional development opportunities within ASEAN.
The Hong Kong Productivity Council and the Federation of Malaysian Manufacturing signed a Memorandum of Understanding, marking the establishment of a deep strategic partnership and integration of the resource advantages of both regions.
The signing ceremony of the MoU took place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on April 20, 2026. Witnessed by Mr Jacob Lee Chor Kok, President of FMM; Tan Sri Dato’ (Dr) Soh Thian Lai, President Emeritus of FMM; Mr Owin Fung Ho Yin, Director of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Kuala Lumpur; and Hon Sunny Tan, Chairman of HKPC, the MoU was signed by Datuk Dr Yeoh Oon Tean, CEO of FMM, and Mr Mohamed D. BUTT, Executive Director of HKPC. This collaboration will facilitate the development of a new value chain connecting Hong Kong, Malaysia and ASEAN, driving new industrialisation in both regions while accelerating industrial upgrading and technological application.
Hon Sunny Tan, Chairman of HKPC, said, “Under the national 15th Five-Year Plan, Hong Kong has become a vital platform for enterprises to go global. Malaysia maintains robust ties with the Asian region, as well as the global industrial and trade markets. The signing of this MoU between HKPC and FMM marks a key milestone in the collaboration on industrial modernisation. We are committed to technological innovation, with a focus on enhancing expertise in automation, Industry 4.0, AI, and robotics, and actively building business matching platforms to facilitate business opportunities and expand our scope of cooperation. This not only deepens the partnership between the two organisations, but also establishes a strategic hub connecting Hong Kong with the ASEAN market. Hong Kong will fully leverage its ‘Bringing in and Going Global’, helping Malaysian enterprises precisely connect with the vast regional and global market while supporting Hong Kong companies in rooting themselves in ASEAN, co-creating a resilient and innovative cross-border value chain.”
Mr Jacob Lee Chor Kok, President of FMM, stated, “This MoU is just the beginning with our roadmap including joint technical training, workshops, technology visits and pilot projects to provide our members with first-hand exposure to the latest manufacturing innovations. We envision a future where Malaysian and Hong Kong companies collaborate on research and development (R&D), pilot new technologies and co-create solutions for emerging challenges”
Six Key Areas to Empower New Regional Industrial Upgrading HKPC and FMM will launch comprehensive cooperation to help enterprises transform technological empowerment into competitive advantage in today’s dynamic market. The two parties will focus on Smart Manufacturing & Industry 4.0, AI & Robotics Innovation, Digital Transformation & Cybersecurity, Cross-border Business Ecosystems and Talent Development.
This collaboration integrates FMM’s extensive supply chain network of over 4,000 member enterprises with HKPC’s profound R&D capabilities in product innovation and technology transfer. Through organising delegations, professional training, business matching, and technical seminars, we will assist enterprises in precisely mastering cutting-edge technologies and market trends. Furthermore, by promoting reciprocal visits between enterprises in both regions, we aim to foster mutual economic and trade empowerment. This synergy not only strengthens corporate resilience against supply chain risks but also ensures that enterprises from both regions secure a proactive position in global supply chain competition, co-creating a distinct competitive advantage.
Hashtag: #HKPC
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Forza Horizon 6 has reportedly crossed 500,000 pre-sold copies on Steam with about a month still to run before its full launch, a figure that, if borne out, would mark one of the strongest pre-release performances yet for a first-party Xbox racing title on Valve’s platform. The game is officially due on 19 May 2026 for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox on PC, Steam and Game Pass, with […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai International Financial Centre has unveiled plans to remake itself as what it describes as the world’s first AI-native financial centre, tying the ambition to a projected $3.5 billion contribution to Dubai’s economy and the creation of 25,000 jobs as artificial intelligence is woven into regulation, operations, talent development and the district’s built environment. The move marks a step beyond the common industry […]
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 March 2026 – ECOVACS Robotics, a global leader in home service robotics, is bringing its global “ECOVACS, Created for Ease” brand idea to the APAC region with a local twist: “Always in Your Corner”. With this, ECOVACS is underscoring its commitment to understanding and meeting the unique needs of users in the APAC region.
“ECOVACS, Created for Ease” reflects the brand’s ongoing commitment to leverage service robotics to create a world of ease for users by relieving them of household tasks. For users in the APAC region, ECOVACS knows that “ease” is not simply about doing less. It means easing the mind and letting go of mental burdens. To bring ease to APAC users, technology must not demand attention. It should be “Always in Your Corner” – quietly helping users to keep their daily life on track.
“Always in Your Corner” for APAC’s Unsung Heroes
“Always in Your Corner” represents how ECOVACS’ diversified full-scenario home service robotics ecosystem is designed to help ease the burdens faced by users in the APAC region and empower them to enjoy a more effortless modern lifestyle. For example, many in the APAC region are part of the so-called “sandwich generation”. They are the quiet backbones of their households, juggling career demands while also taking care of children and aging parents. Whether it’s helping a child with their homework or taking dad to his doctor’s appointment, these everyday heroes are always in someone else’s corner. ECOVACS believes they also deserve to have someone in their corner, to help ease their burdens.
For the past 20 years, ECOVACS has been driven by a fearless spirit of innovation to solve complex challenges and continuously advance the user experience. The pioneering intelligent technologies in the ECOVACS DEEBOT robotic vacuums and WINBOT robotic window cleaners, such as the OMNI Station, OZMO ROLLER technology, and PowerBoost technology have set new industry benchmarks and become the hidden heroes for every home, designed to help users clean every corner of their home with minimal effort.
Enabling Village Partnership in Singapore
Now ECOVACS is bringing this same innovation spirit to help ease the burdens faced by caregivers in the APAC region. As part of its brand campaign, ECOVACS is planning to cooperate with select like-minded local partners across the region, such as Enabling Village in Singapore. Enabling Village is an integrated community space that aims to empower caregivers for people with disabilities by providing them with resources to manage their responsibilities and enhance their quality of life. ECOVACS will provide Enabling Village caregivers with DEEBOT robotic vacuum cleaners to help ease their burdens and enable them to spend more time on themselves.
“Caring for a child with special needs requires lots of time and patience. And it can be challenging to find moments when I can focus on myself,” says Yvette Wang. “I’m grateful to ECOVACS and their efforts to assist caregivers. With their DEEBOT robotic vacuum I now have one less thing to manage, as I can leave DEEBOT to take care of our floors, and itself.”
To commemorate their partnership, ECOVACS and Enabling Village have invited Yvette’s son, artist @Eli_lailai, to specially design some exclusive merchandise. This collaboration was made possible through I’mable Collective, an initiative by SG Enable that supports and empowers persons with disabilities by providing training and employment opportunities within the creative sector.
An Ecosystem that Empowers Ease
ECOVACS’ efforts to continually strengthen its leadership in service robotics are rooted in its deep understanding of users’ needs. Its regionally tailored brand idea “Created for Ease – Always in Your Corner” reflects the brand’s desire to tailor its mission of ‘Robotics for All’ to shape a better future for users in the APAC region with robots that can seamlessly serve every home, everywhere.
The industry-leading cleaning technologies pioneered by ECOVACS demonstrate its dedication to reducing human effort while maximizing cleaning precision and efficiency, all with the aim of offering dependable cleaning experiences tailored to the needs of today’s households. ECOVACS’ service robots offer users more ease by bringing efficient, effortless cleaning to every corner of their household.
“Always in Your Corner” reflects how ECOVACS’ home service robotics ecosystem is designed for users in the APAC region – to support their full-home scenarios, from floors to windows. The ECOVACS DEEBOT robotic vacuums and WINBOT robotic window cleaners are built to handle what must be done — quietly, consistently, and intelligently. They don’t just clean, they leave users with less to manage.
Amplifying a Message of Care
ECOVACS will extend the impact of this brand campaign across multiple touchpoints in key APAC markets, including Singapore, Australia, Vietnam, India, Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia. Through localized partnerships, integrated brand storytelling, and community engagement, ECOVACS aims to honor caregivers as well as those across the region who are seeking a less stressful and more balanced life.
Intelligent. Innovative. Intuitive.
From its DEEBOT family of robotic vacuum cleaners to its WINBOT family of robotic window cleaners, all of ECOVACS’ innovations are backed by its well-established vertically integrated supply chain and independently developed technologies spanning batteries, AI, motors, transmission components and more.
Today, ECOVACS serves over 38 million households across nearly 180 markets worldwide. Its mission — “Robotics for All” — reflects a long-term commitment to making intelligent service robotics accessible, reliable, and seamlessly integrated into everyday life.
“Created for Ease” is not only about cleaning better. It’s about living lighter and reducing what needs your attention – so that you can focus on what truly matters. And in doing so, ECOVACS is always in your corner.
Hashtag: #ECOVACS
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About ECOVACS ROBOTICS
Founded in 2006, ECOVACS ROBOTICS is a global leader in home service robotics with a diverse portfolio of products encompassing robotic vacuum cleaners and robotic window cleaners. With its expansion into robotic lawn mowers, commercial cleaning robots and robotic pool cleaners, ECOVACS solidified its position as a multi-category leader in home service robotics.
Guided by the mission “Robotics for All”, ECOVACS continues to advance technology and enhance the user experience to make life smarter and more stylish for consumers worldwide. With sales subsidiaries in Germany, the United States, Japan, and Singapore, ECOVACS products reach nearly 180 major markets and serve over 38 million households globally.
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai Holding Real Estate has moved to reshape the financing model for off-plan home sales by partnering with Emirates NBD to embed mortgage solutions into purchases across projects developed by Meraas, Nakheel and Dubai Properties. The arrangement allows eligible buyers to seek mortgage pre-approval at the off-plan stage, widening access to bank finance earlier in the transaction and reducing dependence on developer-led instalment […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Donald Trump has warned that large-scale bombing of Iran will resume if no agreement is reached before the ceasefire expires on Wednesday evening in Washington, sharpening pressure on Tehran at a moment when diplomacy remains uncertain and the risk of a wider regional shock is still high. The US president has said his sole fixed demand is that Iran must not acquire a […]
flydubai will begin daily flights to Bangkok’s Don Mueang International Airport on July 1, expanding its Thailand network beyond Krabi and adding a second entry point into one of Southeast Asia’s busiest travel markets. The service will operate from Terminal 3 at Dubai International Airport under the carrier’s codeshare partnership with Emirates, giving passengers onward access across a wider global network.
The move is more than a straightforward route launch. It signals how Dubai’s low-cost carrier is sharpening its focus on high-demand leisure and business corridors in Asia while using its partnership model to compete more effectively against full-service rivals. Bangkok has long been a major draw for Gulf-based travellers, migrant communities, short-break tourists and business passengers, and the use of Don Mueang rather than Suvarnabhumi suggests flydubai is aiming for a cost-efficient operating base while still tapping into the Thai capital’s large catchment area.
According to the published schedule, outbound flight FZ1333 will leave Dubai at 01:35 and arrive in Bangkok at 11:25, while return flight FZ1334 will depart Don Mueang at 23:50 and land in Dubai at 03:25 the next day, all in local times. Introductory return fares start at AED 11,100 in Business Class and AED 3,000 in Economy Class Lite from Dubai, with corresponding starting fares from Bangkok at THB 83,900 and THB 22,100. Those fare levels position the route as a hybrid offering rather than an ultra-budget play, reflecting flydubai’s steady shift towards a broader market that includes premium leisure and corporate demand.
The airline’s management has framed the Bangkok launch as a response to strong summer demand and as part of a wider effort to deploy capacity where yields and passenger volumes justify expansion. The commercial logic is supported by flydubai’s broader performance. In 2025, the carrier reported revenue of AED 13.6 billion, pre-tax profit of AED 2.2 billion, passenger traffic of 15.7 million and a network spanning 140 destinations, underlining both scale and financial resilience at a time when many airlines continue to wrestle with fleet bottlenecks, maintenance costs and geopolitical disruptions.
That backdrop matters because airline route announcements do not happen in isolation. Carriers are adding capacity cautiously, especially where aircraft supply remains constrained. flydubai ended 2025 with a fleet of 97 aircraft and has been pursuing long-term growth with major Airbus A321neo and Boeing 737 MAX orders, broadening a fleet strategy that was once almost entirely centred on Boeing narrow-bodies. That gives the airline more room to grow deeper into medium-haul markets where price-sensitive demand overlaps with demand for better connectivity and upgraded cabin products.
Thailand fits that strategy well. Demand between the Gulf and Thailand has been supported by tourism, retail travel, medical trips, visiting friends and relatives, and small-business movement. Bangkok also works as a distribution point for wider travel into Thailand and neighbouring markets. By choosing Don Mueang, flydubai enters a major airport with a strong low-cost profile and dense domestic and regional links. For passengers, the appeal is likely to rest on timing, one-stop connectivity through Dubai, and the convenience of booking through the Emirates partnership on a single ticket with baggage checked through.
The Bangkok service also reflects a wider pattern in Gulf aviation. Airlines based in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Doha have spent years turning geographic advantage into network depth, linking Europe, Asia and Africa through hub operations that can absorb both premium and value-focused traffic. flydubai’s role in that system has evolved significantly. It no longer operates purely as a low-cost feeder or point-to-point budget airline. Its commercial model now leans on network breadth, underserved routes, codeshare traffic and selective premium demand, a shift reinforced by a 19 per cent rise in Business Class uptake last year.
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Coinbase and Bybit are discussing a partnership focused on tokenisation, custody and distribution of U. S. stocks, a move that would tie one of the largest listed crypto exchanges to one of the sector’s biggest offshore trading venues as competition intensifies around blockchain-based versions of traditional assets. The talks, as reported, do not involve a stake purchase or any comparable transaction tied to Bybit’s route into the […]
Thailand has wrapped up the second Thailand Kickboxing World Cup in Bangkok and used the event to unveil KATPRO, a new professional league aimed at turning the country into a more prominent force in global kickboxing. The tournament was staged at the Bangkok Youth Center, also known as the Thai-Japanese Youth Center, with WAKO listing the event in Bangkok from 7 to 12 April 2026, while organisers said the main World Cup competition ran from 9 to 11 April and the professional launch followed on 11 April.
Organisers said the World Cup drew athletes and officials from 32 countries, underlining the scale of the event and the growing international pull of combat sports in Thailand beyond its traditional Muay Thai base. One published account put attendance at more than 1,500 athletes and officials, while another report ahead of the competition cited more than 720 athletes and over 1,200 supporters and officials. The difference appears to reflect varying methods of counting participants and delegations, but both sets of figures point to a sizeable international turnout.
Bangkok crowns a bigger kickboxing ambition became the broader message around the event, as sport officials and tourism planners tied the competition to a larger push to position the country as a year-round destination for international sports events. The Kickboxing Association of Thailand organised the tournament with WAKO and in cooperation with the Tourism Authority of Thailand and Bangkok authorities, giving the competition both sporting and promotional value.
For Thailand, the timing is significant. Combat sport is already central to the country’s international sporting identity, but kickboxing has long occupied a secondary place to Muay Thai in public visibility and commercial development. By hosting another WAKO-recognised World Cup and pairing it with a new professional platform, Thai organisers are signalling that they want to build a parallel ecosystem: one that can develop amateur athletes, attract overseas fighters and sponsors, and create a clearer route into paid competition.
That strategy also reflects the changing shape of global striking sports. Kickboxing has grown through international federations, regional circuits and commercial promotions that reward standardised rules, television-friendly formats and cross-border matchmaking. Thailand already has the infrastructure, coaching depth and fight culture to compete in that space. What it has lacked is a more structured domestic platform designed specifically for kickboxing rather than adapted from Muay Thai. KATPRO appears intended to fill that gap. Organisers described it as the country’s first structured professional kickboxing league, launched at the same venue as the World Cup. The opening gala featured seven bouts with fighters from more than 10 countries and followed professional procedures including weigh-ins and face-offs.
The official messaging around the World Cup and league launch stressed athlete development as much as spectacle. That matters because Thailand’s long-term credibility in kickboxing will depend not only on hosting events, but on producing fighters who can succeed regularly under international kickboxing rules. WAKO’s event listing confirms that the Bangkok competition sat within a wider calendar of World Cups and championships across multiple countries, placing Thailand within an established global circuit rather than a standalone showcase.
There is also an economic calculation behind the push. Sports tourism has become a more deliberate policy tool across Asia, with governments and city administrations using tournaments to drive hotel occupancy, transport demand, media attention and repeat visits. Holding a multinational combat sports event in Bangkok during April gives organisers a chance to blend competition with destination marketing, and tourism officials made clear they view such events as part of a wider international branding effort.
Still, the bigger test lies ahead. Hosting a successful World Cup is one thing; building a durable professional league is another. Professional combat sports require dependable matchmaking, medical oversight, sponsorship, broadcast distribution, fighter pay structures and fan interest strong enough to support repeated cards. Thailand has advantages in venue culture, gym networks and audience familiarity with striking sports, but kickboxing still has to define its identity in a market where Muay Thai remains the dominant brand.
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Lovable, the fast-growing AI app builder used by startups and large corporate teams alike, is facing scrutiny after security researchers said an API authorisation flaw exposed sensitive data from projects created before November 2025, including source code, credentials, chat histories and customer records. The company has disputed the characterisation of the incident as a data breach, arguing that some of the visibility tied to public projects reflected […]
Receivables financing facility enables competitive open account terms and supports international growth
SHANGHAI, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 April 2026 – Tradewind Finance has provided a USD 2.5 million non-recourse export factoring facility to a cable manufacturer based in Vietnam. The facility, structured by Tradewind’s Shanghai office, converts export receivables into immediate liquidity and provides credit protection on buyers in the United States and Australia.
With this structure in place, the exporter maintains 90-day open account terms for its international buyers without placing pressure on working capital.
How Longer Payment Terms Strained a Manufacturer’s Liquidity
The client is a cable manufacturer with over 30 years of operating history in Vietnam. For most of that period, the company relied on advance payments and letters of credit to manage its export transactions.
As competition in global cable supply increased, buyers began requiring open account terms as a condition of continued business. The exporter transitioned accordingly, but the shift created a significant gap between production costs and the moment of payment collection.
The company had export credit insurance in place, which provided partial protection against buyer default. However, the residual risk exposure of 10 to 20 percent remained uncovered, and the insurance did not address the working capital shortfall that came with extended payment cycles. Despite a strong order book and established buyer relationships, the exporter’s cash position was under pressure.
How the Facility Works: Converting Receivables into Working Capital
Tradewind structured a non-recourse export factoring facility aligned with the client’s trade flows to the United States and Australia. The facility operates as follows:
Advance funding: Tradewind advances up to 90 percent of each invoice value shortly after shipment, converting receivables into available cash.
Credit protection: Because the facility is non-recourse, Tradewind assumes the buyer credit risk. By leveraging this structure, the exporter benefits from 100% credit protection against buyer default or insolvency.
Collections management: Tradewind manages the receivables administration and collection process, reducing the operational burden on the exporter’s finance team.
This structure replaces the partial protection previously offered by export credit insurance with a more comprehensive solution that covers both the financing gap and the full buyer credit risk on approved receivables.
What This Means for the Exporter
With the facility in place, the exporter can offer 90-day payment terms to its buyers without absorbing the cash flow impact internally. Production cycles are no longer constrained by the timing of buyer payments, and the company has a predictable source of liquidity tied directly to its shipment activity.
The non-recourse structure also removes a layer of financial uncertainty. Rather than relying on insurance with residual exposure, the exporter now operates with full credit coverage on approved buyers through Tradewind’s facility.
Why Tradewind Was Selected
Tradewind was selected for its ability to structure receivables financing solutions for cross-border trade flows involving multiple buyer markets. Key factors in the decision included:
Over 25 years of experience in international trade finance, with particular depth in export factoring across Asia, the Americas, and Europe
Local structuring capability through Tradewind’s Shanghai office, with direct knowledge of Vietnamese export markets
A financing structure tailored to the client’s specific trade corridors and buyer payment terms
Consistent execution and clear communication throughout the onboarding process
A Facility Built Around the Client’s Trade Flows
“This facility gives the client a reliable source of working capital tied directly to its export activity,” said Chris Chang, Regional Commercial Director, Far East at Tradewind Shanghai. “By structuring the solution around their specific trade flows to the United States and Australia, we were able to address both the financing gap and the credit risk exposure in a single facility.” Facing Similar Pressure from Extended Buyer Payment Terms?
Tradewind structures receivables financing solutions for exporters managing cash flow across international trade corridors. Whether you are dealing with longer payment cycles, buyer credit risk, or the operational complexity of cross-border collections, we can help you find the right structure for your situation.
Contact us at www.tradewindfinance.com to discuss how a tailored trade finance solution can support your export business.Hashtag: #Tradewind #TradewindFinance #Cable #Vietnam #Factoring #Manufacturing
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Tradewind Finance
Founded in 2000, Tradewind Finance is a global trade finance company specialising in cross-border receivables financing, export factoring, supply chain finance, and credit protection. Tradewind maintains a network of offices across Bangladesh, Bulgaria, China, Hong Kong SAR, Hungary, India, Pakistan, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States, alongside its headquarters in Germany. By combining financing, credit protection, and collections into a single integrated solution, Tradewind helps exporters and importers manage working capital, reduce risk, and grow their international trade with confidence.
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SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 April 2026 – Paymentology, the leading global issuer-processor, today announced a strategic partnership with Change Financial to accelerate payment method adoption and fintech growth across Australia.
The collaboration combines Paymentology’s cloud-first processing platform with Change Financial’s local BIN sponsorship, regulatory expertise and in-market presence – enabling fintechs, digital banks and programme managers to launch and scale debit, credit and prepaid programmes more efficiently in the Australian market.
Change Financial is a Mastercard Principal Issuer in Australia, providing local scheme connectivity and compliance support. Together with Paymentology’s real-time, multi-cloud processing infrastructure, the partnership creates a streamlined pathway for fintechs looking to enter or expand in the country.
Australia represents one of the world’s most advanced digital payments markets. The national payments market was valued at USD 849.1 billion in 2025 and is projected to reach USD 1.35 trillion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 5.09% between 2026 and 2034. Cards and mobile wallets now sit at the centre of everyday transactions, as digital adoption continues to accelerate. Australians made approximately AUD 160 billion in mobile wallet payments in the past year alone, with billions of transactions recorded annually, highlighting strong demand for digital-first, contactless and mobile-enabled payment experiences.
Minh Ha Truong, Head of Growth Asia Pacific at Paymentology commented: “Australia is one of the most sophisticated payments ecosystems globally, with strong consumer adoption of digital, contactless and mobile-first experiences. By partnering with Change Financial, we’re combining next-generation issuing infrastructure with trusted local BIN sponsorship and expertise, unlocking faster payment method adoption for fintechs and helping them scale confidently in the Australian market.”
Change Financial brings deep experience supporting fintechs and financial institutions through local sponsorship, scheme relationships and programme enablement.
Jennifer Mateer, Chief Commercial Officer at Change Financial added: “We collaborate closely with fintechs and programme managers every day to launch innovative payment solutions with speed and confidence. Our partnership with Paymentology combines our local market expertise with global-scale issuing infrastructure, enabling innovators to accelerate time to market and deliver compelling card payment experiences to Australian consumers and businesses.”
Hashtag: #Paymentology #Fintech
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Paymentology
Paymentology is the leading next-generation issuer processor, empowering fintechs, digital banks and retail banks to effortlessly launch and manage innovative payment solutions on a global scale. The company drives greater customer choice and value through easy-to-use, integrated platforms and services that help clients to disrupt the status quo, accelerate time to market, and achieve growth.
With a superior multi-cloud platform offering a vast global footprint, and enhanced real-time data, Paymentology distinguishes itself as a leader in the payments industry. Its team of payments experts, with deep local market knowledge, operates across 50 countries and 14 time zones, providing 24/7 support. Paymentology is deeply committed to expanding financial inclusion globally, changing lives and positively impacting the communities in which it operates.