Lesotho’s exports can again enter the United States without tariffs after a temporary levy introduced following a landmark Supreme Court judgment expired, offering crucial relief to the country’s garment factories and thousands of workers. The Ministry of Trade, Industry and Business Development welcomed the restoration of duty-free treatment, saying the change would strengthen the competitiveness of products manufactured in the kingdom. The tariff expired on July 29, […]
Apple is facing a federal lawsuit from three investors who allege that a fraudulent cryptocurrency wallet distributed through its App Store enabled scammers to steal Bitcoin worth about $1.8 million. The complaint, filed on July 24 in the US District Court for the Northern District of California, accuses Apple of negligence, misrepresentation and failing to adequately review or monitor applications offered through its tightly controlled digital marketplace. […]
The Supreme Court has urged Parliament to create distinct criminal offences for “digital arrest” scams and artificial intelligence-generated deepfakes, warning that existing laws do not adequately address technology-enabled fraud that has cost citizens about ₹54,000 crore over six years. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta told a bench headed by Chief Justice Surya Kant that the Centre was preparing legislation covering digital arrests, deepfakes and related cyber offences. The […]
By Dr. Gyan Pathak Fixing accountability for brutality on peacefully protesting students across the country has now clearly emerged as the next big issue, with the opposition disrupting the proceedings of the Parliament of India for the 7th day (July 28, 2026) of the Monsoon session demanding accountability from the Union Minister of Home Amit […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai International Financial Centre has surpassed 10,000 active registered companies for the first time, sustaining rapid growth despite war-related disruption, weaker regional confidence and pressure on several parts of Dubai’s economy. The number of active companies operating from DIFC reached 10,018 at the end of June, up 30 per cent from a year earlier. The centre attracted 2,318 additional active businesses over the […]
By Nitya Chakraborty Youth and student protestors led by the less than three month old Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) have won in their battle with the Narendra Modi led government over the resignation of the education minister Dharmendra Pradhan and the other demands for examination reforms. With the government agreeing to most of the demands […]
A developer project has demonstrated an experimental jailbreak process for iOS 27 on Apple’s iPhone 11 Pro, using the hardware-level usbliter8 exploit and a heavily modified firmware restoration workflow. The open-source project, known as usbliter8-fun, is designed solely for security researchers and experienced developers. Its creator warns that the procedure erases the device, disables several core functions and can leave the handset unsuitable for ordinary use. The […]
Two people were killed and five others, including a two-year-old boy, were wounded after gunfire erupted at a crowded food festival near Seattle’s Space Needle on Sunday evening. The shooting occurred shortly after 6pm at Seattle Center during the final hours of the Bite of Seattle, an annual event that attracts hundreds of food vendors, performers and large crowds. Police detained a person in connection with the […]
Get ready for juju’s Great Fluffy Summer at Pacific Place this July
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 July 2026 – Pacific Place is delighted to announce juju world, a summer collaboration with internationally acclaimed Australian artist CJ Hendry, running from 23 July to 16 August 2026. Conceived and produced in partnership with creative house Pen & Paper, the event marks Hong Kong’s first large-scale juju experience, transforming the shopping destination into an immersive world inspired by Hendry’s collectible character. The event will feature a Hong Kong exclusive merchandise collection, a wide range of interactive experiences, and seasonal shopping rewards. Pacific Place is set to be the city’s most talked-about cultural and retail destination this summer.
Pacific Place x CJ Hendry Unveil Hong Kong’s First Large-Scale juju Experience This Summer
Who is juju?
Created by CJ Hendry, juju is a collectible character recognised for its floppy ears, flower eye and playful personality. Occupying a unique space in contemporary collectible culture, juju is both an objet d’art and an emotional companion. This summer, juju arrives in Hong Kong in a spectacular new form.
A Planet Has Landed at Pacific Place
At the heart of this whimsical universe is the juju Planet, a vibrant centrepiece surrounded by a colourful wonderland of oversized trees and fluffy clouds of pom-poms, with larger-than-life juju characters welcoming you with open arms. Touch, explore and trigger surprises — every interaction transforms juju world into an unforgettable, multi-sensory adventure for dreamers of all ages.
juju world
Dates: 23 July – 16 August 2026 Time: 10am – 10pm Location: Garden Court, Level LG1 Entry: No registration required
Step into the Magic
juju Planet
Perched atop the planet is a gigantic juju, gently welcoming visitors into this surreal landscape.
Experience Pure Joy The Dreamy Swing
Embrace your inner child by sitting on the swing with juju. Snap a photo with the tall, colourful trees — their joyful appearance is sure to bring back lots of happy memories.
The Fluffy Hideaway
juju Room
Step inside an immersive circular chamber where over 400 juju plushies line the walls, surrounding visitors in a sea of fluff.
The Mirror of Dreams
juju Infinity Mirror
Inspired by juju’s signature flower eye, this mirrored installation creates endless reflections of the playful world around it.
Gentle Giant Meet the Giant juju
Standing an impressive two metres tall, the Giant juju welcomes visitors for an unforgettable up-close experience. Whether posing beside it, hugging it or capturing the perfect keepsake photo, this larger-than-life installation brings the beloved character to life.
CJ Hendry Unveils Hong Kong-Exclusive juju Collectibles
Created exclusively for Pacific Place, the shimmering collection introduces iridescent juju inspired by the city’s vibrant energy. On top of the nine standard versions, five additional secret versions will be added to the collection as a delightful surprise. Available in limited-edition blind boxes, each is housed in a specially designed shiny collectible tin, turning the act of unboxing into a unique experience. The fun continues as visitors unlock surprise accessories at the Capsule Toy Station and customise their juju with interchangeable flower eyes, outfits and more.
juju world Merchandise Store
juju world Merchandise Store & Capsule Toy Station
Dates: 23 July – 16 August 2026 Time: 11am – 9pm Location: Level L1, near Lane Crawford Entry: Through member entry booking or on-site queue tickets (see details below)
The Collector’s Dream
juju world Merchandise Store
This is the only place in the world to find the rarest new jujus — the Hong Kong-exclusive limited collection, including both the standard and secret versions, alongside loveable 12″ juju plushies dip-dyed in rainbow ombré, and many more limited-edition summer essentials. Quantities are limited, so come early and ready to collect!
Visitors are required to register as above members to receive an On-site Queue ticket, distributed daily from 10am. Existing above blue, above gold, above platinum and above black members may also reserve entry in advance via the Pacific Place Mobile App.
Availability is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis while stocks last.
Purchase a token, spin the capsule machine, and unlock a playful selection of accessories to style your juju exactly as you wish. Choose from clothing, hair ties, and earrings, alongside interchangeable flower eyes making their Hong Kong debut. Your juju will truly be like no other!
Stocks are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
A Summer Full of Rewards
juju world is the centrepiece of a summer season at Pacific Place designed to delight at every turn. From 23 July to 16 August, shopping at Pacific Place and Starstreet Precinct also unlocks the ‘Dreamlike Summer’ rewards programme, offering exclusive Pacific Place shopping e-Vouchers with designated same-day electronic spending, with eligible UnionPay cardholders enjoying additional rewards on top.
Accumulated Same-day Electronic Spending
General Rewards*
UnionPay Users Extra Rewards#
HK$5,000 – HK$34,999
HK$100 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$50 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$35,000 – HK$64,999
HK$600 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$600 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$65,000 – HK$119,999
HK$1,300 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$1,300 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$120,000 or above
HK$2,400 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
HK$2,400 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher
*General shoppers and eligible UnionPay users are required to join the Pacific Place Loyalty Programme – above and meet the accumulated same-day spending requirement by electronic payment during the Promotion Period in order to be entitled to redeem General Rewards and UnionPay Users Extra Rewards.
#To redeem the UnionPay Users Extra Rewards, shoppers must settle the relevant transaction(s) with UnionPay Credit and ATM Cards with the UnionPay logo, UnionPay Mobile Payment (including but not limited to Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Huawei Pay) or UnionPay QR Code (including UnionPay App or other App supporting UnionPay QR Code Payment), except the RMB cards issued by specific Hong Kong and Macau card issuing institutions. The qualified transaction(s) must be settled via the UnionPay network in full. WeChat Pay, Alipay and AlipayHK are not eligible for this Promotion. During the Promotion Period, UnionPay users are entitled to redeem the UnionPay Users Extra Rewards up to 5 times. UnionPay users must settle their payment by UnionPay when using the Shopping e-Vouchers from the Extra Rewards. Each shopper is entitled to a maximum of ONE redemption of Rewards per day. The Rewards are limited in quantity and are available on a first-come, first-served basis while stocks last.
Terms and Conditions apply.
Dates: 23 July – 16 August 2026 Time: 11am – 10pm Location: Gift Redemption Counter on Level L2 (near Joyce)
This summer, Pacific Place becomes something more than a destination. It becomes a world. And juju can’t wait to welcome you in.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About CJ Hendry
CJ Hendry is an Australian, New York-based contemporary artist renowned for her hyper-realistic drawings and large-scale immersive installations. Known for creating ambitious, experiential exhibitions that invite public participation, Hendry has developed a distinctive practice that combines fine art, spectacle, and play. Her projects often explore themes of materiality, consumer culture, value, and perception, turning galleries into fully realized environments that challenge traditional ways of viewing art.
Hendry’s work has been exhibited internationally and collected worldwide, attracting a global audience through her unique ability to merge technical mastery with humour, accessibility, and immersive storytelling.
About Pacific Place
Located in the heart of Admiralty, Pacific Place is the destination for exceptional service and unique experiences. As a pioneer of innovative retail concepts in Hong Kong, Pacific Place continues to transform the retail scene by delighting visitors with an array of curated experiences through diversified offerings. Since its inception in 1988, Pacific Place has established itself as Hong Kong’s premier lifestyle hub, a mixed-use development that continues to evolve and grow as the ultimate destination to shop, dine, work, stay, relax and play. It houses one of Hong Kong’s largest collections of luxury brands and diverse dining offerings, making every visit a memorable one. In addition to being a prime transportation hub, Pacific Place is home to five Grade-A office towers, 268 serviced apartments, and four five-star hotels: The Conrad, Island Shangri-La, JW Marriott and Upper House Hong Kong.
Customer enquiry hotline: (852) 2844 8988
Website: www.pacificplace.com.hk
Facebook: @Pacific Place Hong Kong
Instagram: @pacificplacehk
WeChat: @PacificPlaceHK
XiaoHongShu: @Pacific Place HK
About Pen & Paper
Pen & Paper is an established Hong Kong–based creative agency. As the creative and production partner for juju world at Pacific Place, Pen & Paper is bringing artist CJ Hendry’s whimsical universe to Hong Kong, continuing her creative journey in Asia Pacific.
Chou Tien-chen became the oldest player to win a BWF World Tour Super 1000 title after overcoming France’s Toma Junior Popov in a demanding three-game China Open final in Changzhou.
The 36-year-old from Taiwan secured the men’s singles championship 21-15, 7-21, 21-13 on Sunday, combining controlled aggression with the stamina that has sustained his career among badminton’s leading players for more than a decade.
Chou recovered from a one-sided second game to regain command in the decider. He slowed Popov’s attacking rhythm, defended with greater precision and forced the Frenchman into difficult exchanges from the back of the court. The victory completed an outstanding campaign that included a major upset against world No. 1 and defending champion Shi Yuqi.
The sixth seed had defeated Shi 21-14, 12-21, 21-15 in the quarter-finals, ending a nine-match losing sequence against the leading Chinese player. Chou then beat fellow Taiwan player Lin Chun-yi 21-18, 21-18 in the semi-finals to reach the championship match.
His title carried added significance because of the physical demands associated with a Super 1000 tournament. The category sits at the highest regular level of the BWF World Tour and brings together most of the world’s top-ranked players. Chou’s ability to win several high-intensity matches at 36 underlined the value of conditioning, disciplined court movement and tactical experience in extending elite careers.
Popov, ranked 16th, responded strongly after losing the opening game. The 27-year-old dominated the second with steep attacks and early interceptions, restricting Chou to seven points. The momentum shifted again in the final game as Chou reduced his errors, absorbed pressure and opened decisive gaps with accurate placement.
The result denied Popov his first Super 1000 title but strengthened his position among Europe’s leading singles players. His run also reflected France’s growing influence in a discipline traditionally led by players from Asia and Denmark. Popov and his brother Christo have helped broaden the country’s presence on the international circuit ahead of another demanding phase of World Tour events.
Akane Yamaguchi claimed the women’s singles title with a 21-18, 21-16 victory over home favourite Chen Yufei. The Japanese world champion produced a composed display built on speed, retrieval and sharp changes of direction.
Yamaguchi maintained pressure through long rallies and repeatedly turned defence into attack. Chen remained competitive in both games but struggled to establish sustained control against an opponent who covered the court efficiently and made few unforced errors.
The championship was another major success for Yamaguchi following her third world title in 2025. Her victory also represented a strong response after she lost the Japan Open final to PV Sindhu a week earlier.
Yamaguchi had reached the China Open final by defeating defending champion Wang Zhiyi 21-10, 6-21, 21-16 in a fluctuating semi-final. She recovered after a difficult second game and regained her consistency in the decider.
China collected two titles through its doubles combinations. Liu Shengshu and Tan Ning retained the women’s doubles crown by defeating Japan’s Yuki Fukushima and Mayu Matsumoto 21-14, 21-19.
The home pair controlled the opening game and resisted a stronger challenge in the second. Their victory gave them a third Super 1000 championship from four tournaments at that level during the season, reinforcing their position among the strongest partnerships in women’s doubles.
Guo Xinwa and Chen Fanghui won the mixed doubles title after an 87-minute contest against top seeds and defending champions Feng Yanzhe and Huang Dongping. Guo and Chen prevailed 25-23, 20-22, 21-15 in an all-China final.
They missed several opportunities to close the match in the second game but recovered in the decider, applying greater pressure at the net and limiting their opponents’ attacking options. It was their second Super 1000 title following their All England success in 2025.
Indonesia’s Fajar Alfian and Muhammad Shohibul Fikri took the men’s doubles championship with a 16-21, 21-19, 21-19 comeback victory over South Korea’s Kim Won-ho and Seo Seung-jae.
The United States has imposed a 25% tariff on a broad range of Brazilian goods, escalating a dispute over digital payments, market access, intellectual property protection and environmental policy. The duties took effect on July 22 following a year-long investigation under Section 301 of the Trade Act of 1974. The measure covers products including farm machinery, footwear, textiles, wood products, chemicals and ethanol, while excluding several imports […]
Hackers are using a legitimate copy of Notepad++ and a disguised plugin to install malware on Windows computers, allowing malicious code to run through the text editor’s normal extension-loading process. The campaign has been linked to UAC-0099, a threat cluster known for targeting government bodies, defence organisations and strategically important enterprises in Ukraine. The revised infection chain, detected from mid-July, deploys two newly identified tools called LUNCHPOKE […]
Google has been fined €890 million for breaching European Union competition rules by favouring its own services in search results and restricting app developers from directing users towards cheaper payment options. The European Commission imposed two penalties under the Digital Markets Act, marking the first sanctions against Google under the bloc’s flagship legislation aimed at curbing the power of dominant technology platforms. A €460 million fine covers […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Aldar has launched Marsa Al Saadiyat, a Dh100 billion mixed-use waterfront development completing the final phase of Saadiyat Island’s masterplan and expanding Abu Dhabi’s luxury property, tourism and cultural offering. The development will cover 6.4 million square metres and accommodate more than 58,000 residents. It will include Abu Dhabi’s largest marina, luxury hotels, branded residences, private mansions, villas, apartments, schools, healthcare facilities and […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai A California court has invalidated parts of the state’s Diwali holiday law, creating uncertainty over how schools and public employers must accommodate those observing the Festival of Lights. The ruling leaves the formal recognition of Diwali as a state holiday intact but limits provisions governing its implementation, the Hindu American Foundation said. The organisation described the judgment as a setback for a measure […]
A limited collection of eight beachfront townhomes offers a rare opportunity to own directly on Bang Tao Beach.
PHUKET, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2026 – Banyan Group Residences has unveiled Banyan Tree Beach Residences Varuna, a collection of just eight beachfront townhomes within Laguna Phuket. Positioned directly on Bang Tao Beach, the development offers a rare opportunity to own a branded residence on one of Phuket’s most sought-after stretches of coastline.
Inspired by a “Coastal Biophilia” design philosophy, the architecture connects each residence closely to its beachfront setting. Curved building lines echo wave motion, while slatted timber cladding and trellis screening reference sand and shifting coastal light. Floor-to-ceiling glazing along ocean-facing elevations frames sweeping Andaman Sea views, and each residence’s private rooftop infinity pool and terrace are oriented west to capture the sunset.
Each four-bedroom, four-level townhome draws on Southern Thailand’s traditional architecture, with layered thresholds and vertical timber lines. The principal living and dining spaces occupy the upper level behind full-height glazing which opens out fully to allow breathtaking seaviews.
A private lift connects all floors, and each unit includes a ground-floor garden terrace. The master suite occupies its own floor, with a walk-in closet, reading room and ensuite bathroom opening to a private courtyard, finished throughout with premium appliances.
Bang Tao Beach: An Absolute Beachfront Address
Varuna sits directly on Bang Tao Beach on one of the few remaining absolute beachfront sites within Laguna Phuket.
Laguna Phuket spans over 1,000 acres of parkland, lagoons and five kilometres of coastline. Residents have access to the Laguna Golf Phuket 18-hole course, several spas, extensive dining and the new RAVA Beach Club, with Phuket International Airport nearby.
Ownership Benefits
Ownership unlocks membership of The Sanctuary Club, Banyan Group’s owner programme offering discounts across its properties worldwide, plus complimentary RAVA Beach Club membership with priority facility access, dining discounts and marine sports.
Additional benefits include Laguna Golf membership, 24-hour concierge and professional property management. Through the Laguna Advantage programme, owners also receive one year’s complimentary property management and insurance, one year’s free enrolment at Laguna Phuket’s onsite preschool, discounted fees at selected international schools, and access to medical and wellness benefits.
Banyan Living: A Rental Management Solution
Owners are automatically enrolled in Banyan Living, Banyan Group’s rental management platform, which supports property care, guest servicing and rental distribution while giving owners flexibility in how they use their residence.
With its limited collection of eight townhomes, direct beachfront setting and access to Laguna Phuket’s amenities, Banyan Tree Beach Residences Varuna marks a distinctive addition to Phuket’s luxury residential landscape.
Hashtag: #BanyanGroupResidences #LagunaPhuket
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Laguna Phuket
Laguna Phuket is Asia’s premier integrated resort destination, set against the stunning backdrop of the Andaman Sea. Spanning over 1,000 acres, the resort features six luxury hotels, an award-winning 18-hole golf course, fine dining, luxury spas, and branded residences.
Guests benefit from complimentary shuttle services, a cashless payment system, and access to world-class recreational and wellness facilities. The property division offers a range of residences, apartments, and villas, perfect for those seeking permanent homes or investment opportunities.
About Banyan Group Residences
Banyan Group Residences is the property development arm of Banyan Group, a global leader in luxury hospitality and sustainable development. With over 35 years of experience, Banyan Group Residences has redefined tropical living with iconic residential developments across Thailand and beyond. Its projects seamlessly blend contemporary design, cultural heritage, and a commitment to sustainability, setting a global benchmark for luxury living.
Ownership privileges, memberships and services are subject to applicable terms and conditions, availability, programme rules and change from time to time. Rental participation is optional and no rental return is guaranteed.
A US federal judge has ordered Paramount Skydance to suspend its proposed takeover of Warner Bros. Discovery for at least 14 days, giving a coalition of states time to pursue claims that the transaction would unlawfully weaken competition across film, television and streaming markets. US District Judge Araceli Martínez-Olguín issued the temporary restraining order in Oakland, California, preventing the companies from completing or implementing the merger until […]
Dubai’s former zoo site in Jumeirah 1 is entering a new phase as a low-rise residential community, while a 710-metre public artwork preserves memories of the landmark during construction. The development will comprise 90 homes arranged around landscaped courtyards, green spaces and a central park. Shamal Holding is leading the project, which seeks to combine residential privacy with walkability, shared amenities and architectural references to the site’s […]
By Dr. Gyan Pathak Cockroach Janata Party movement was reported in a section of media as one of the reasons for abrupt removal of Delhi Police Commissioner Satish Golcha on Friday July 17, 2026, who was replaced by Anurag Kumar. A day after, in the early hours of Saturday July 18, 2026, Delhi Police removed […]
Magnet Forensics has accused a former contractor of disclosing confidential information about an undisclosed iPhone vulnerability to a rival cybersecurity company, potentially destroying the commercial value of a hacking capability used by government investigators. The Canadian digital forensics company filed a federal lawsuit against exploit engineer Mario Del Gaudio and Spain-based Paradigm Shift Technology S. L. The complaint alleges that Paradigm Shift published technical research derived from […]
By Nitya Chakraborty Former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina’s announcement last week to return to her country in December this year ending her exile in India, has created big interests in global diplomatic circles, apart from India and Bangladesh. In an interview to the Reuters, she said that she intends to return to her own […]
European prosecutors have opened a criminal investigation into subsidy payments to companies formerly owned by Czech Prime Minister Andrej Babiš, intensifying scrutiny of his business arrangements and possible conflicts of interest. The European Public Prosecutor’s Office is examining whether European Union funds were improperly paid to businesses within the Agrofert conglomerate and whether Czech authorities failed to recover subsidies awarded during Babiš’s earlier term as prime minister […]
By K Raveendran The Supreme Court vacation bench’s observation that the “heavens are not going to fall” if petitions seeking an independent investigation into the alleged misappropriation of donations to the Ayodhya Ram Temple waited for the regular judicial process was an unfortunate choice of words. The bench may have been procedurally justified in declining […]
Apple has sued OpenAI and two former employees, accusing them of stealing trade secrets to accelerate the ChatGPT maker’s push into consumer hardware. The lawsuit, filed on Friday in the US District Court for the Northern District of California, marks a sharp escalation in tensions between companies that began working together two years ago. Apple alleges that OpenAI systematically obtained confidential product, manufacturing and supplier information by […]
