News related to
data

Transaction Valued at $122.5M Establishes 20,000-Liter US Biologics Drug Substance Manufacturing Platform, Covering Development through Commercial Supply

TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 July 2026 – Bora Pharmaceuticals Co., Ltd. (“Bora” or “Bora Group”; TWSE: 6472; OTCQX: BORAY) today announced the completion of its acquisition of the GMP manufacturing operations of MacroGenics, Inc. (NASDAQ: MGNX) including its biologics drug substance facility in Rockville, Maryland and an associated warehousing center in Frederick, Maryland, for total consideration of US $122.5 million through its wholly owned subsidiary Bora Biologics USA, LLC.. Upon closing, Bora signed a long-term CDMO Service Agreement with MacroGenics.

With the close of the transaction, Bora Group’s biologics CDMO franchise, Bora Biologics, now operates 20,000 liters of single-use bioreactor (SUB) drug substance manufacturing capacity across two active US sites: Rockville, Maryland and San Diego, California, and one development facility in Zhubei, Taiwan.

“This acquisition establishes a US biologics manufacturing platform that sponsors can depend on, from development through licensed commercial supply,” said Bobby Sheng, Chairman and CEO of Bora Group. “As regulatory and supply chain dynamics continue to evolve, we expect biotech and pharmaceutical companies to increasingly seek manufacturing partners with US-based, inspection-proven infrastructure. Bora Biologics is designed to meet that need, offering a fully integrated, end-to-end biologics platform spanning drug substance and drug product capabilities.”

With the addition of the Rockville facility, Bora Biologics supports more than 4 active commercial programs, with more than 120 completed GMP batches and supply into multiple global markets including the US, EU, Japan, Canada and the UK with fully integrated QC and analytical capabilities.

Across its US network, Bora Biologics has completed five FDA inspections, including two at Rockville and one PMDA review in 2025, with clean results at both sites. The combined platform has supported more than 33 biologics and 15 biosimilars, establishing a manufacturing base for biotech and pharmaceutical companies with reduced offshore dependency and domestically anchored infrastructure.

Bora Group intends to integrate its US drug substance (DS) capabilities with its existing sterile drug product (DP) capabilities over the next 12 to 18 months, offering a seamless, fully integrated development-through-commercial biologics solution.

Hashtag: #BoraPharmaceuticals

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

About Bora

Founded in 2007, Bora Pharmaceuticals (“Bora” or “the Company”, 6472.TW and BORAY.OTCQX) is a leading pharmaceutical services company with a vision and goal of “Contributing to Better Health All Over the World”. Operating under a “Dual Engine” model that integrates CDMO and commercial expertise, we empower pharmaceutical and biotech partners to optimize product development, accelerate launches, and scale supply to meet global patient needs. At the same time, we actively broaden R&D and sales infrastructure, focusing on niche and rare disease markets to improve patients’ quality of life.

By investing in talent, infrastructure, and biologics expansion, Bora continues to transform operations and achieve sustainable growth. Committed to making success “certain,” Bora sets new standards in the pharmaceutical and CDMO industries.

For more, please visit:

Disclaimer:
This document and the accompanying information may contain forward-looking statements. All statements regarding the company’s future business operations, potential events, and prospects (including but not limited to forecasts, targets, estimates, and operational plans) are considered forward-looking statements unless they refer to factual occurrences. Forward-looking statements are subject to various factors and uncertainties that may cause significant differences from actual results, including but not limited to price fluctuations, actual demand, exchange rate variations, market share, competitive conditions, changes in the legal, financial, and regulatory framework, international economic and financial market conditions, political risks, cost estimates, and other risks and variables beyond the company’s control. These forward-looking statements are based on current predictions and assessments, and the company disclaims any responsibility for future updates.

Singapore-based companies have committed more than S$5.5 billion in Johor since the JS-SEZ memorandum of understanding, while IMFC-J reported 1,000 enquiries linked to RM73 billion in potential investment in March 2026.

JOHOR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 July 2026 – Forest City Special Financial Zone (Forest City SFZ) today issued a progress update on the Johor-Singapore Special Economic Zone (JS-SEZ), pointing to early implementation milestones in investment facilitation, financial-services incentives and cross-border connectivity.

Forest City, Johor
Forest City, Johor

The JS-SEZ agreement, signed on 7 January 2025, covers approximately 3,588 square kilometres across southern Johor. It comprises nine flagship areas and targets investment in 11 sectors, including manufacturing, logistics, financial services, the digital economy, tourism, education, healthcare and the green economy. Forest City is the designated financial-services flagship within the framework.

“The JS-SEZ has moved beyond framework design and into early-stage execution. Forest City has a defined role in financial services and family-office activity, while the wider zone is building a pipeline across multiple industries,” a Forest City SFZ spokesperson said.

Investment pipeline builds across the JS-SEZ

Singapore’s Ministry of Trade and Industry said Singapore-based companies had committed more than S$5.5 billion in investments into Johor since the JS-SEZ memorandum of understanding was signed in January 2024. The figure was highlighted at the second JS-SEZ Joint Investment Forum in Singapore in October 2025.

On the Malaysian side, the Invest Malaysia Facilitation Centre Johor (IMFC-J) reported in March 2026 that it had received 1,000 investor enquiries and was facilitating RM73 billion in potential investment.

IMFC-J is a joint federal-state one-stop centre led by the Iskandar Regional Development Authority, Invest Johor and the Malaysian Investment Development Authority.

The figures represent investment commitments and potential project value rather than fully realised capital expenditure, but provide an early measure of the commercial pipeline forming around the economic corridor.

Forest City builds financial-services proposition

Malaysia announced the Forest City SFZ incentive package in September 2024, followed by the gazettement of the Single Family Office (SFO) tax rules in October 2025. Under the scheme, a qualifying SFO vehicle may receive a 0% tax rate on eligible investment income for an initial 10-year period, with a possible extension for a further 10 years, subject to asset, local investment, staffing and operating-expenditure requirements.

The initial phase requires at least RM30 million in assets under management. The wider Forest City incentive framework also includes a 5% corporate tax rate for qualifying global-services and selected relocation activities, while eligible knowledge workers in the JS-SEZ may qualify for a 15% personal income tax rate, subject to prevailing rules and approvals.

According to Forest City data, nine family offices had received approvals under the scheme by June 2026. The Securities Commission Malaysia had previously reported more than 30 expressions of interest and has set a target of RM2 billion in SFO assets under management by the end of 2026.

Separately, Forest City said 593 applicants were approved for the SFZ category of the Malaysia My Second Home programme between 1 October 2024 and 31 March 2026, indicating demand from investors, professionals and long-stay residents alongside the financial-services push.

Cross-border measures support the dual-market model

The JS-SEZ framework is intended to combine Johor’s land, industrial capacity and cost base with Singapore’s capital, connectivity and business ecosystem. Measures under the bilateral framework include investor facilitation, automated immigration channels, paperless goods clearance and improved transport links.

Singapore has rolled out QR-code immigration clearance across travel modes at the Woodlands and Tuas checkpoints. Travellers should continue to carry their passports, which may still be required for verification and for clearance at the Malaysian border.

The Johor Bahru-Singapore Rapid Transit System Link is targeted to begin passenger service by the end of 2026. The four-kilometre line will connect Bukit Chagar and Woodlands North in about five minutes and is designed to carry up to 10,000 passengers per hour in each direction during peak periods.

Execution and conversion remain the next test

The World Bank projects Malaysia’s economy to expand by 4.4% in 2026, supported by domestic demand, while warning that trade restrictions, global policy uncertainty and weaker external demand remain downside risks.

For the JS-SEZ, the next phase will be measured by the conversion of enquiries and commitments into approved projects, realised investment, skilled employment and operating businesses. Delivery of transport, utilities, talent development and regulatory coordination will also determine the pace at which companies adopt a cross-border operating model.

“The early indicators are encouraging, but the economic impact should be assessed over a multi-year horizon. The priority now is to convert the pipeline into sustainable business activity, jobs and a deeper professional-services ecosystem,” the spokesperson said.

Forest City SFZ said it will continue working with public agencies, financial institutions and professional-service providers to support family offices, international investors and companies evaluating Johor as part of their regional growth strategy.

Key figures

Indicator Latest stated figure
JS-SEZ coverage Approximately 3,588 km²; nine flagship areas; 11 priority sectors
Singapore-linked commitments More than S$5.5 billion committed into Johor since January 2024
IMFC-J pipeline 1,000 enquiries; RM73 billion in potential investment as at March 2026
SFO incentive 0% on eligible investment income for 10 years, with a possible further 10 years
RTS Link Targeted passenger service by end-2026; up to 10,000 passengers per hour per direction
Malaysia 2026 GDP outlook 4.4% growth forecast by the World Bank

Hashtag: #ForestCity

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

About Forest City Special Financial Zone

Located in Iskandar Puteri, Johor, Forest City Special Financial Zone (FCSFZ) is Malaysia’s pioneering special financial zone and the financial-services flagship within the Johor–Singapore Special Economic Zone. It is positioned to attract financial institutions, multinational corporations, high-net-worth individuals and businesses operating in wealth management, financial technology and global business services.

Its incentive framework includes a 0% income tax rate for qualifying Single Family Office Vehicles for up to 20 years, a preferential 5% corporate tax rate for approved qualifying activities, and a special 15% personal income tax rate for eligible knowledge workers, subject to the applicable conditions, regulatory approvals and prevailing legislation. Forest City also holds duty-free island status, further strengthening its appeal as a regional investment, business and wealth-management destination near Singapore.

By Satyaki Chakraborty The U.S.-China high tech battle for supremacy has reached a new peak after the China manufactured Supercomputer LineShine was adjudged the best among the Top 500 supercomputers made by various nations including the USA, at the International Supercomputing Conference in Hamburg, Germany held on June 23.China got this top slot recognition after […]

The article China-US Tech War Reaches Its Peak As Chinese Supercomputer Gets Top Slot In 2026 appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 July 2026 – Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking (Natixis CIB) is pleased to announce the appointment of Luc Bernard as Chief Executive Officer, Natixis Services in India.

Luc reports to Cécile de Sousa, Chief Operating Officer, Asia Pacific & Middle East, Natixis CIB and Etienne Huret, Head of Portugal and India Hubs, Natixis.

Luc Bernard - Natixis
Luc Bernard – Natixis

He brings to the role nearly two decades of experience in Global Capability Center management and offshoring strategies, entrepreneurship, delivery, software engineering, financial markets, architecture, data, digital transformation and innovation.

Luc was instrumental in establishing Natixis Services in India, Natixis CIB’s technology and innovation hub in Bangalore. He previously held the position of Executive Director and Head of CIB Operations and IT and served on the Board of Directors at Natixis Services in India from 2021 until 2025. He then transitioned to Natixis Investment Managers in Paris, where he has been serving as Head of IT Production until his current appointment. Prior to joining the IT team at Natixis CIB in 2014, Luc gained experience as a Software Developer at Société Générale and Partners Advisers SA. He holds a Master’s degree in Electronic Engineering from Ecole Nationale d’Ingénieurs de Brest and an Executive MBA from HEC Paris.

In his new role as Chief Executive Officer, Luc will support the growth of Natixis Services in India and strengthen its integration within Natixis’s global processes.

Cécile de Sousa said, “It is with great pleasure that we welcome Luc back to Bangalore to lead our India center of expertise as it celebrates its five-year anniversary. He has been pivotal in setting up this crucial operation, and spearheading technology-driven transformation and process optimization. Luc’s extensive knowledge of our internal processes, coupled with his proven track record in India, positions him perfectly to assume the leadership responsibilities of Natixis Services in India.”

Etienne Huret said, “Luc’s appointment is a key milestone in our commitment to further developing Bangalore as a critical hub for the Groupe BPCE and Natixis businesses. I look forward to working with him closely as we continue to grow synergies between our Portugal and India hubs and collaborate closely with the Group on strategic initiatives.”

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

Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking

Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking is a leading global financial institution that provides advisory, investment banking, financing, corporate banking and capital markets services to corporations, financial institutions, financial sponsors and sovereign and supranational organizations worldwide.

Our teams of experts in close to 30 countries advise clients on their strategic development, helping them to grow and transform their businesses, and maximize their positive impact. Natixis CIB is committed to aligning its financing portfolio with a carbon neutrality path by 2050 while helping its clients reduce the environmental impact of their business.

As part of Groupe BPCE, the second largest banking group in France through the Banque Populaire and Caisse d’Epargne retail networks, Natixis CIB benefits from the Group’s financial strength and solid financial ratings (Standard & Poor’s: A+, Moody’s: A2, Fitch Ratings: A+, R&I: A+).

About Natixis Services in India

Natixis Services in India is a Center of Expertise for Groupe BPCE, a banking group of French origin, and its subsidiary, Natixis. Natixis Services in India delivers operational excellence and agile solutions by leveraging advanced technologies to address challenges in the banking industry. Natixis Services in India’s focus is on enhancing the client experience, mitigating risks, and strengthening competitive positioning. The team is committed to enriching career development opportunities within an inclusive and dynamic work environment.

BitAuto Malaysia Automotive Forum 2026 has ended in Kuala Lumpur with automakers, dealers, digital platforms and content creators positioning online engagement, localisation and electrification as the next drivers of Malaysia’s automotive growth.

The forum, held on June 30 at Sheraton Imperial Kuala Lumpur, marked BitAuto Malaysia’s first large-scale industry showcase. Hosted by BitAuto Tengyi Malaysia Sdn Bhd, the event brought together GWM Malaysia, Chery Corporate Malaysia, Proton New Energy, SGMW, JoyStar Dealer Group, TQ Wuling Manufacturing, Beritarian and representatives from Zeekr, Leapmotor, BMW, Toyota and 212 Motors.

The central theme, integration and symbiosis, reflected a market in transition. Malaysia’s automotive sector is moving from a phase led largely by model launches and pricing competition towards a broader contest over digital visibility, dealer conversion, charging access, after-sales confidence and community-led trust.

Li Wei, vice-president of Tengyi Technology and director of BitAuto Malaysia, said the company had chosen Malaysia as its flagship overseas hub because of the country’s steady vehicle demand, faster electrification, low but expanding EV penetration and policy support. BitAuto has built a 26-year presence in China’s automotive internet market through vertical auto media, mobility advertising, new media operations and AI technology.

BitAuto Malaysia is promoting Bitauto. my as a full-funnel automotive platform covering awareness, content nurturing and conversion. The platform lists more than 85 marques, 550 vehicle models and 1,300 variants, offering high-definition galleries, 360-degree VR viewing, multi-model comparison tools, pricing information and promotional data from authorised dealers.

The company is also building a trilingual content operation in Bahasa Malaysia, Mandarin and English, supported by more than 30 creators across automotive, technology, lifestyle and travel segments. Its dealer tools include membership services, livestream customer acquisition, WhatsApp lead distribution, merchant back-end management and performance advertising workflows.

The forum’s commercial importance is underscored by Malaysia’s shifting vehicle market. Total industry volume reached a record 820,752 units in 2025, the second straight year above 800,000 units, but 2026 sales are expected to soften to around 790,000 units as affordability pressures, higher operating costs and the end of tax exemptions for fully imported EVs weigh on demand.

Electrification remains the clearest growth pocket. Battery electric vehicle registrations more than doubled to 30,848 units in 2025, while combined EV and hybrid sales rose to 69,363 units. Fully imported EVs have been subject to import duty, excise duty and sales tax from January 2026, though locally assembled EV incentives remain in place until the end of 2027.

Proton’s EV assembly plant in Perak has added weight to Malaysia’s ambitions as a regional electric mobility hub. The facility has an initial annual capacity of 20,000 cars, with scope to rise to 45,000 units. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has urged Geely to use the auto hub not only for vehicle production but also as a centre for training and education.

Chinese automakers are also deepening their regional strategies. Xpeng has been in negotiations with EP Manufacturing Bhd to begin EV production in Malaysia in 2026, while BYD has announced plans for an assembly plant in Perak and Leapmotor is preparing local assembly at Stellantis’ plant in Gurun, Kedah. These moves point to Malaysia’s growing role in right-hand-drive markets across ASEAN.

Panel discussions at the forum focused heavily on localisation. Michael Chew of Chery Malaysia said long-term market presence required a full local ecosystem covering manufacturing, supply chains and talent, rather than a reliance on imported vehicles. Oscar Wang of JoyStar Dealer Group described Malaysia as a mature replacement market where trade-in buyers increasingly seek differentiated driving experiences.

Fuel subsidy changes and concerns over petrol costs were cited as factors lifting interest in plug-in hybrids and hybrids. Speakers also said charging infrastructure remained a “chicken-and-egg” issue requiring coordination among automakers, dealers and public authorities.

The second major discussion turned to content and community. Speakers said buyers were responding less to technical claims alone and more to authenticity, ownership experience and creator credibility. Short videos were described as useful for initial discovery, while long-form reviews and offline car communities were seen as stronger tools for building brand loyalty.

Dubai’s top-end apartment market has moved from a narrow niche into a major source of residential sales value, as buyers increasingly pay more than Dhs10m for branded, waterfront and high-positioned flats. Transaction data for flat sales from 2016 to 24 June 2026 shows the scale of the shift. Sales of Dhs10m-plus apartments rose from 71 deals worth Dhs1.22bn in 2016 to 2,003 deals worth Dhs44.04bn in 2025. […]

Private foreign investment in Saudi Arabia’s private markets reached SR20 billion in 2025, making overseas capital a dominant force in the Kingdom’s fast-expanding private investment landscape as reforms, larger deal pipelines and stronger exit prospects draw more global fund managers to Riyadh. The Saudi Venture Capital Company said foreign inflows accounted for about 60 per cent of total private investments last year, putting the overall market near […]

Advertisements

Aflac Life Insurance Japan has disclosed a major cyber incident affecting about 4.38 million customers, with personal, policy and some banking information exposed after unauthorised access to its customer portal and related systems. The breach, announced on June 30 and updated on July 1, involved systems including Aflac Yorisou Net, a policyholder website used for checking contract details and carrying out account changes. The company said the […]

A Brazil-linked banking trojan has shifted its focus to Spain and Portugal, using fake PDF files, hidden code and location checks to reach banking customers while keeping analysts and automated security tools away from its payload. The malware, known as Ousaban or Javali, has long been associated with attacks on financial users in Brazil. Its latest campaign shows a more selective and evasive operation aimed at Windows […]

A fileless malware framework is abusing Google’s Blogspot platform to deliver PureLog Stealer directly into computer memory, sharpening concerns that trusted web services are being turned into staging grounds for credential theft. The campaign, tracked as Veil#Drop, begins with a JavaScript file disguised as a document, such as “transcript. pdf. js”. Once opened on a Windows system, the file runs through Windows Script Host and launches PowerShell […]

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 July 2026 – JustCo Holdings Limited (“JustCo“), a Singapore-grown flexible workspace operator with an extensive Asia Pacific network, announced pay-per-use access via the JustCo App, allowing professionals to find, book, and access hot desks and meeting rooms on demand across its network, without membership or upfront commitment.

JUSTCO APP ENABLES ON-DEMAND BOOKING OF WORKSPACES – NO MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED
JUSTCO APP ENABLES ON-DEMAND BOOKING OF WORKSPACES – NO MONTHLY MEMBERSHIP REQUIRED

Professionals increasingly need reliable workspaces that can be accessed as needed, whether for a few hours, a day, or specific meetings. JustCo App’s pay-per-use access caters to the demand for increased flexibility and short-term access.

New users can simply download the app, create an account, and immediately browse available JustCo workspaces. There are no upfront membership fees, making it ideal for freelancers, business travellers, remote workers, and visiting team members to access JustCo locations when and where they need it.

Users can purchase Hot Desk (Day) passes or make Meeting Room bookings directly in the app. Multiple passes can be purchased and shared with colleagues or partners. This supports common scenarios such as hosting meetings, working between locations, or enabling visiting teammates to use a workspace immediately.

Pay-per-use features are currently available in Australia, Singapore, Thailand, and Malaysia, and will subsequently roll out across other locations.

This builds on JustCo’s broader strategy to integrate workspace discovery, access, and usage into a unified digital platform across markets. The JustCo Store, available on web and powering the app, provides real-time visibility of workspace availability across locations.

Concurrently, since the start of the year, JustCo has successfully opened new locations across Bengaluru, Gurugram, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Singapore and Taipei, reflecting a steady pipeline growth. Additional openings have also been confirmed across Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Mumbai, Seoul, Tokyo and Yokohama, providing clear visibility for the second half of the year.

Together, these openings underscore JustCo’s commitment to executing the expansion strategy presented to investors at the time of its IPO and further strengthening its footprint across Asia Pacific’s leading commercial hubs.

Visit the JustCo Store at www.justcoglobal.com to browse available offices and membership plans, with selected spaces available for move-in as early as the next business day. Or download the JustCo App on iOS and Android.
Hashtag: #JUSTCO

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

About JustCo Holdings Limited

JustCo is a platform building the future of work across Asia Pacific. Our vision is to be the global benchmark for flexible workspace by creating connected ecosystems where people, businesses and communities can thrive.

Through our portfolio of brands, including The Collective, JustCo and the boring office, we support organisations of all sizes, from startups and SMEs to multinational corporations, with flexible workspace solutions across multiple cities and markets.

Beyond workspace, JustCo helps businesses scale faster through flexibility, operational simplicity and access to a regional network. For landlords, we transform buildings into vibrant business destinations that attract demand, enhance asset performance and create long-term value.

Together with our members, partners and landlords, we are building an ecosystem that connects work, business, learning, wellness and community, enabling people and organisations to grow and succeed.

For more information, visit: justcoglobal.com

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 July 2026 – Global beauty brand LUX, in collaboration with VML Singapore, has launched #LUXMyWill — an initiative that transforms one of social media’s most talked-about beauty trends into a formal, lasting declaration of personal style.

#LUXMyWill: Beauty Brand LUX Turns "#BuryMeInThis" From Social Media Trend Into Legal Declaration

Over the past year, women across TikTok and Instagram have embraced hashtags such as #BuryMeInThis – a viral expression of ultimate obsession, where users name the look they would want to be remembered in. What began as playful, dramatic content quickly evolved into a cultural signal: a new generation of women declaring that they are not dressing for occasions – they are the occasion.

LUX recognised the deeper meaning behind the trend and partnered with legal experts to give it permanence. #LUXMyWill enables women to turn a fleeting social post into a formally recognised personal style wish – one that can be witnessed, documented and preserved.

The initiative invites women to declare their chosen look on camera and tag someone they trust to honour it. Legal specialists worked alongside the brand to define what gives such a declaration standing, and to create simple, accessible content explaining the process. Selected participants also received a LUX My Will box, designed to preserve their chosen outfit alongside their recorded declaration.

“Beauty has always been a powerful form of self-expression. Today, women are taking that further – not waiting for occasions, but becoming them,” said Judy Zu, Global Brand Director, LUX. “This trend showed us that when a woman chooses how she wants to be remembered, it’s not frivolous – it’s a statement of identity. We wanted to give that statement the recognition it deserves.”

The movement built organically. Creators who had previously posted under #BuryMeInThis revisited their content to make it official, tagging friends who, in turn, created declarations of their own. Each tag became a new participant. Each declaration, a witnessed moment. Each video, a permanent expression of personal style.

Through this chain of participation, #LUXMyWill expanded rapidly – creator by creator, tag by tag – turning individual expressions of glamour into a collective cultural movement.

At its core, #LUXMyWill reinforces LUX’s enduring belief: beauty is not just something you wear for a moment. It is something you embody, define, and leave behind – because you are the occasion.

Hashtag: #LUXMyWill ##BuryMeInThis

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

About LUX

LUX has been celebrating beauty and femininity since 1925. We stand for beauty that does not blend in: bold, sassy and maximalist. We will continue to support efforts that help women express their Main Character Beauty.

About VML

VML is a leading creative company that combines brand experience, customer experience, and commerce, to create connected brands that drive growth. The agency is a leading global marketing and systems integration partner, specializing in creating innovative solutions for business transformation. VML is celebrated for its award-winning work with blue chip client partners including AstraZeneca, Colgate-Palmolive, Dell, Ford, Intel, Microsoft, Nestlé, The Coca-Cola Company, and Wendy’s. The agency is recognized by the Forrester Wave™ Reports, which name WPP a “Leader” in Commerce Services, Global Digital Experience Services, Global Marketing Services and, most recently, Marketing Measurement & Optimization. VML’s global network is powered by 28,000 talented people across 60-plus markets, with principal offices in Kansas City, New York, Detroit, London, São Paulo, Shanghai, Singapore, and Sydney.

ZHONGSHAN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 July 2026 – As 2026 marks the 160th anniversary of the birth of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, the 6th Cross-Strait Sun Yat-sen Forum was held in Zhongshan, Guangdong Province—the hometown of the great pioneer—from June 27 to 29 under the theme “Carrying Forward Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s Spirit of Endeavor and Working Together for the Great Rejuvenation of the Chinese Nation”. This year’s forum was the largest in its history, attracting the broadest participation from Taiwan compatriots and the highest proportion of young participants to date. Around 2,000 representatives from across the Chinese mainland, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao attended the event. Centered on cultural heritage and driven by economic and trade cooperation, the forum established a multi-level platform for cross-strait exchanges and collaboration while fostering broader consensus on integrated cross-strait development.

At the 6th Cross-Strait Sun Yat-sen Forum open ceremony
At the 6th Cross-Strait Sun Yat-sen Forum open ceremony

Distinguished guests from both sides of the Taiwan Strait attended the opening ceremony and noted in their remarks that Dr. Sun Yat-sen is a revered national pioneer shared by compatriots on both sides of the Strait. His vision of rejuvenating China remains a common spiritual legacy, and people across the Strait should carry forward his ideals and work hand in hand toward national rejuvenation. During the opening ceremony, Zhongshan Municipal People’s Government and the Association of Taiwan Investment Enterprises on the Mainland signed the Strategic Framework Agreement on Deepening Zhongshan–Taiwan Economic and Trade Cooperation to Promote Integrated Development, laying a solid institutional foundation for long-term industrial cooperation across the Strait.

A series of cultural exchange activities also took place throughout the forum. Participants enjoyed an evening tour of the century-old Sunwen West Road Arcade Pedestrian Street, immersing themselves in Zhongshan’s rich historical heritage and the vibrant cultural and tourism scene of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area. They also visited the Museum of Dr. Sun Yat-sen, where they studied revolutionary historical archives, bowed before Dr. Sun’s bronze statue to pay homage, and gained a deeper appreciation of his enduring ideals of “All Under Heaven Belong to the People” and “Revitalize China”. Many participants remarked that these activities provided an excellent platform for sustained exchanges among young people across the Strait and that their shared cultural roots and common heritage form a solid foundation for advancing cross-strait spiritual integration.

To further strengthen cross-strait economic cooperation and advance industrial integration between Shenzhen and Zhongshan, the forum also featured the “Taiwan Businesses Gather in Zhongshan, Industries Glow in the Greater Bay Area” 2026 Guangdong-Taiwan Economic and Trade Exchange Conference and Investment Promotion Event Celebrating the Second Anniversary of the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link. A total of 19 industrial projects were signed during the event. The first group comprised seven Taiwan-invested projects spanning semiconductor supporting industries, electronic components, smart home products, high-end fitness equipment, and medical devices. The second and third groups included 12 Shenzhen-Zhongshan collaborative projects covering new energy vehicle components, industrial robotics, memory chip packaging, advanced specialty materials, and integrated cultural, tourism, and commercial developments.

During the investment promotion event, Taiwan business representatives spoke highly of Zhongshan’s business environment. Zhang Congyuan, Chairman of Huali Industrial Group, which has operated in Zhongshan for more than two decades, praised the city’s enterprise service philosophy of “staying out of businesses’ way when everything runs smoothly while providing prompt support whenever needed”. He noted that this business-friendly environment has helped the company grow into one of the world’s leading manufacturers of athletic footwear.

Guo Wenhai, secretary of the CPC Zhongshan Municipal Committee, extended a sincere invitation to Taiwan businesses and entrepreneurs to invest and establish operations in Zhongshan. He emphasized that the city offers not only strong industrial infrastructure but also high-quality government services. Zhongshan will continue to provide proactive, efficient, and dedicated support for businesses while continuously improving both its hard and soft investment environment. Leveraging the opportunities created by the Shenzhen-Zhongshan Link, the city aims to create broader prospects for cooperation and shared growth for enterprises from both sides of the Taiwan Strait.

Participants and Taiwan business representatives agreed that, taking the 160th anniversary of Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s birth as an important milestone, this year’s forum created new channels for both cultural exchanges and industrial cooperation across the Strait. Looking ahead, Zhongshan will continue to organize regular initiatives, including entrepreneurship support programs for young people from Taiwan, youth exchange activities, and Guangdong-Taiwan industrial matchmaking events. By carrying forward Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s spirit, embracing the opportunities of the Greater Bay Area, and strengthening both economic cooperation and people-to-people ties, the city will continue to contribute to a new chapter of integrated cross-strait development.

Hashtag: #CrossStraitSunYatSenForum #Zhongshan #Guangdong

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

By K Raveendran The arithmetic of India’s fuel market has long been sold as market-driven, but the latest price movements expose a more selective discipline. When crude oil rises, the pass-through to consumers and businesses is quick, stern and explained as unavoidable. When the same crude oil retreats, the adjustment becomes cautious, partial and wrapped […]

The article Retail Petroleum Prices Fall Only On Paper As Consumers Wait In Anticipation appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

Investors heading into the second half of 2026 face an uncomfortable reality: the global economy is changing faster than many portfolios are adapting to it. The forces reshaping markets today are structural. AI is triggering one of the largest capital investment booms in modern history. Digital assets have crossed into mainstream finance. Meanwhile, geopolitical conflict, sovereign debt and valuation risk continue to create significant uncertainty. As the […]

ZURICH, SWITZERLAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 July 2026 – An iconic Swiss chocolate brand meets one of the world’s most celebrated names in crystal artistry to bring ‘Never Square’ to life. Creating something unexpected, something beautiful, and something that gives back: Toblerone today announces The Ultimate Gift.

The Making of - Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski
The Making of – Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski


The centrepiece is the Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski: an exceptionally rare series of hand-made crystal replicas of the original Toblerone chocolate bar – the gift many associate with travel. Familiar in form. Remarkable in execution. Individually numbered, certified, and utterly one-of-a-kind.
The Ultimate Gift: A Global Auction for Good

From 1st July to 31st July 2026, travellers passing through some of the world’s most iconic airports (Athens, Delhi, Doha, Dubai, Frankfurt, Madrid, New York JFK, Singapore and Zurich) will encounter a mesmerising pop-up experience celebrating both brands and, above all, will have the chance to bid in person on the Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski.

Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski
Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski

Each auction is linked to the airport’s own established charity partner – organisations already embedded in their local communities and chosen by the airports themselves. 100% of winning bids will be donated to the designated charity at each location.
However, the auction is open to everyone globally. No need to be travelling to take part. Bidding is available online (terms and conditions apply), click here to visit the auction site and here for more information on the charities.

Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski unveiled in the Crystal Dome at Swarovski Kristallwelten
Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski unveiled in the Crystal Dome at Swarovski Kristallwelten

The Story Behind the Crystal Bar

Toblerone was born in Switzerland in 1908. Its triangular shape has made it one of the most recognised silhouettes in the world. For generations of travellers, it has been the gift you bring home: a small but indulgent, reliable piece of Switzerland.
To bring the Toblerone Crystal Bar to life, Toblerone turned to Swarovski. Swarovski delivers a diverse portfolio of unmatched quality, craftsmanship, and creativity. Founded in 1895 in Austria, the company designs, manufactures and markets high-quality crystals and created stones as well as finished products such as jewelry.
The two share more than Alpine geography. They share a belief that quality is not a detail but it is the point. That the things worth making are worth making properly. And that some of the most enduring objects in the world are the ones that manage to be both beautiful and, somehow, completely unpretentious about it.

The result is the Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski: Toblerone’s unmistakable triangular form, unapologetically rich on the inside, reimagined as a luxury artefact through Swarovski’s crystal craftsmanship.
Iain Livingston, President Toblerone & World Travel Retail, says: “Toblerone has always been more than a chocolate bar. It’s a ritual, a symbol of travel, and one of the world’s most recognised gifts. Creating the Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski feels like a natural expression of who we are: a brand that takes quality seriously but never takes itself too seriously. The Ultimate Gift is exactly that and will raise funds to support brilliant causes that help make the world a better place.”
The Craft Behind the Crystal

Each Toblerone Crystal Bar crafted by Swarovski is exclusively designed and developed using Swarovski’s rich savoir-faire:
  • Modelled on the original Toblerone chocolate bar & manufactured in Austria
  • Each weighs 851g and measures 305mm in length
  • 546 individually cut facets per bar
  • 140 hours of development and 65 hours of production – 100% handmade
  • Crafted with high-precision cutting technology, characterised by unmatched brilliance

The Ultimate Gift Box: Available to All

For those who prefer to take something home immediately, Toblerone is also launching a limited-edition Ultimate Gift Box adorned with Swarovski crystals, available exclusively in World Travel Retail throughout the campaign period across airports globally.
Inside: a Milk Toblerone bar.

Crystals on the outside. Unapologetically rich on the inside. The answer, as ever, to the question every traveller eventually asks themselves at the airport: “Where is my Toblerone?”

Hashtag: #Toblerone #Neversquare #CrystalBar #UltimateGift #SwarovskiCrystals

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

About Toblerone

In 1908, Theodor Tobler and Emil Baumann invented a unique chocolate: Toblerone. “Toblerone” is a portmanteau of “Tobler” and “Torrone,” the Italian term for honey-almond nougat. Its distinctive triangular shape has been recognised around the world ever since. Today, production remains based in Bern Brünnen, where employees work with great passion every day — producing up to 4 million Toblerone products daily, with around 90 percent of all Toblerone sold worldwide manufactured right there in Bern.

Toblerone has never been square. Not in shape. Not in spirit. And not in ambition. Never Square is the belief that the best things in life refuse to conform — and that the most interesting gifts are rarely the obvious ones.

About Swarovski

Masters of Light Since 1895.

Swarovski creates beautiful products of impeccable quality and craftsmanship, celebrating joyful extravagance and self-expression.

Founded in 1895 in Austria by Daniel Swarovski, Swarovski creates the world’s finest crystals, Swarovski Created Diamonds, Swarovski Crystal Pearls and Swarovski Zirconia, jewelry, and accessories, as well as home décor and crystals for the automotive industry.

Swarovski Crystal Business operates in more than 140 countries worldwide, with 2,200 boutiques complemented by a network of selected multibrand partners and employs approximately 18,300 people globally. Together with its sister companies, Swarovski Optik and Tyrolit, it forms the Swarovski Group. Rooted in the company’s heritage, Swarovski strives to make a positive impact on people, society, and the planet. Today, sustainability measures are implemented throughout the value chain, with a focus on circular innovation, championing diversity and inclusion, and encouraging self-expression. This includes the philanthropic work of the Swarovski Foundation, which supports charitable organizations bringing positive environmental and social impact.

Abu Dhabi Investment Authority has emerged as a cornerstone investor in Luxshare Precision Industry’s planned $3.1 billion Hong Kong listing, giving the Apple supplier heavyweight backing as the city’s equity market stages its strongest first-half fundraising run in five years. The Shenzhen-listed electronics manufacturer opened the Hong Kong public offer on Tuesday, seeking to sell 383.5 million H shares at a maximum price of HK$63.28 each. At […]

Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai’s property boom is giving way to a more measured investment cycle as buyers shift attention from quick capital gains to developer strength, delivery quality and long-term asset performance. A new investor confidence survey points to a market that remains broadly optimistic about Dubai’s prospects but less willing to chase rapid price appreciation after a long rally. The findings suggest that investors are […]

The MoU appoints DOE-licensed MNA Metal Resources as preferred collector for used automotive batteries, strengthening traceability across BateriHub and Global Energy Battery’s nationwide battery ecosystem.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 July 2026 – BateriHub, operated by Battery4U Sdn. Bhd., together with Global Energy Battery Sdn. Bhd., has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with MNA Metal Resources to strengthen the responsible collection, documentation and recycling of used automotive batteries in Malaysia.

Under the MoU, MNA Metal Resources will serve as the preferred used battery collector, either directly or through transporters appointed by MNA, for scrap batteries collected through BateriHub and Global Energy Battery’s operations. The arrangement is designed to ensure that used batteries are channelled through proper, licensed and documented collection and recycling processes.

“This MoU matters because every battery replacement has an afterlife,” said Stanly Ng, General Manager of BateriHub. “When a customer replaces a car battery with us, the old battery should not disappear into an unknown chain. It should be collected, recorded and handled by the right people. For customers, the promise is simple: when you choose BateriHub, we take care of the replacement quickly, and we take care of the used battery responsibly.”

The partnership comes as Malaysia’s automotive sector continues to expand. According to the Malaysian Automotive Association, Malaysia recorded 820,752 new vehicle sales in 2025, its second consecutive record year. While this MoU focuses on used lead-acid automotive batteries, it also comes amid wider national attention on battery waste management, with The Star reporting growing attention on regulated recycling, safe disposal pathways and battery traceability as Malaysia’s vehicle ecosystem evolves.

As Malaysia’s largest direct-owned automotive battery retailer, BateriHub plays a critical role at the point of replacement, where old batteries are handed over by customers at branches or during on-demand battery delivery services. Global Energy Battery, which focuses on battery wholesale, supply and distribution, contributes additional collection volume through its wider business network.

Together, BateriHub and Global Energy Battery have channelled approximately 280,000 used batteries, equivalent to around 4,200 tonnes, through formal disposal and recycling channels over the past three years. MNA Metal Resources is a licensed lead-acid battery recycler and smelter under the Department of Environment, with operations covering the collection, movement and processing of scheduled waste.

“As a company involved in the supply and distribution of batteries, we recognise that responsibility does not end at the point of sale,” said Sandy Yap, Chief Operating Officer of Global Energy Battery. “A sustainable battery industry requires proper collection, proper documentation and proper recycling. This partnership allows us to support that responsibility across our business network.”

“We are pleased to partner with BateriHub and Global Energy Battery to support a more transparent and responsible battery recycling ecosystem in Malaysia,” said Genly Villa Olaguer, Fleet Manager of MNA Metal Resources. “Proper handling of used batteries is essential to protect the environment and ensure that valuable materials can be recovered safely through licensed facilities.”

Used lead-acid batteries require proper handling because they contain materials such as lead and sulfuric acid, which can harm soil, waterways and communities if leaked, dumped or processed irresponsibly. Through this partnership, the companies aim to improve accountability in the movement of scrap batteries from retail and supply channels to licensed recycling facilities.

BateriHub said the MoU reflects its broader effort to make responsible waste management part of its core retail promise, not just a back-end operational process.
Hashtag: #BateriHub

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

About BateriHub

BateriHub is Malaysia’s largest direct-owned car battery retailer, operating a nationwide network of 200 branches supported by centralised training, service standards, and technician operations. Since 2011, the company has served over 1.0 million customers, received over 70,000 positive reviews across Google, Facebook, and e-commerce platforms, employs more than 5000 staff, and covers 500+ service areas across 11 states. Learn more at

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 July 2026 – The “Taiwan International Plant-Based Festival” officially launched in Singapore. Led by Ministry of Agriculture (MOA) Deputy Minister Hu Jong-I, the delegation introduced Taiwan’s premium produce and elite Phalaenopsis orchids into Singapore’s luxury dining and international sectors. The initiative leverages high-end restaurant marketing and immersive thematic exhibitions to showcase the quality, safety, and sustainability of Taiwanese agriculture, actively expanding its reach into premium consumer and international procurement markets.

Photo 1

The culinary campaign features a high-profile partnership between “Yang Ming Spring”—a prominent Taiwanese pure vegan culinary group honored with the Michelin Green Star—and Si Chuan Dou Hua Restaurant at PARKROYAL on Beach Road under the Pan Pacific Hotels Group. From July 1 to September 30, this exclusive plant-based menu highlights premium fresh ingredients sourced directly from Taiwan, including water snowflake, green bamboo shoots, cabbage, tea leaves, and the rising export star, the “Mango Pineapple,” elevating Taiwanese produce onto international five-star tables.

Photo 2

The launch was attended by MOA Deputy Minister Hu Jong-I, Ministry counselor Wu Wen-ling, Pan Pacific Hotels Group Executive Director Ms. Wee Wei Ling, and Yang Ming Spring Founder Mr. Chen Chien-Hung. Deputy Minister Hu noted that this festival marks a critical milestone for Taiwanese agriculture as it integrates with green gastronomy globally. The MOA aims to connect Singaporean consumers with Taiwan’s top-tier produce, establishing a premium brand image rooted in food safety and trust to unlock future export channels.

The launch elegantly incorporated Taiwan’s Phalaenopsis orchid floral aesthetics to create a “five-sensory feast” that harmonized taste, vision, and cultural narrative, solidifying Taiwan’s premium brand image. The event successfully drew over 80 distinguished guests, including mainstream Singaporean media, food critics, business chamber representatives, and executive chefs.

Concurrently, the official residence of the Taipei Representative Office in Singapore hosted the festival’s thematic opening reception, serving as a premier venue for cultural diplomacy and showcasing the narrative of Taiwan’s agricultural excellence. The exhibition focused on three themes: Taiwanese orchid aesthetics, Mango Pineapple innovation, and sustainable agriculture tourism. This space demonstrated Taiwan’s agricultural evolution from precision R&D to green sustainability, highlighting its export potential to foreign diplomats and Singaporean trade buyers.

The MOA emphasized that the initiative’s core strategy is to “drive tangible procurement through engaging and immersive experiences in our target markets.” By bridging high-end dining with diplomatic prestige, the three-month campaign will maximize the visibility of Taiwanese agri-products across Southeast Asian markets. Aligning with global net-zero sustainability trends, the festival establishes a safe, premium brand image, paving the way for Taiwanese agriculture to integrate into global high-end supply chains and broader Asia-Pacific channels.

Hashtag: #YMSpring

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

by Alexandra Govorukha Between 70% and 95% of digital transformation efforts fail. That’s not a technology problem. Boston Consulting Group research reveals roughly 70% of challenges in AI projects stem from people and process issues, not technical ones. Yet most organisations continue to treat transformation as a deployment challenge, not a communications one. My Executive Master’s in Digital Transformation and Innovation Leadership from IE Business School gave me […]

By Nitya Chakraborty The joint statement of the Chinese President Xi Jinping and the Bangladesh Prime Minister Tarique Rahman issued in Beijing on June 26 following the visit of Tarique to China has drawn the attention of the global diplomatic circles due to the sweep of the nature of collaboration between the two countries mentioned […]

The article Bangladesh-China Joint Statement On Teesta Cooperation Poses A Big Challenge To India appeared first on Latest India news, analysis and reports on Newspack by India Press Agency).

HANGZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 June 2026 – The inaugural AI+OPC Innovation and Development Conference was held from June 29 to 30 in Shangcheng District, Hangzhou, capital city of east China’s Zhejiang Province. Centered on one-person company (OPC), a new form of smart economy in the AI era, the conference program comprised one opening ceremony and two parallel breakout sessions.

Live from the 1st "AI+OPC" Innovation & Development Conference in Hangzhou
Live from the 1st “AI+OPC” Innovation & Development Conference in Hangzhou

It gathered around 400 delegates from government departments, industry associations, financial institutions, AI enterprises and OPC startup operators across the country. Participants exchanged insights on AI innovation pathways and cross-industry integration strategies, injecting strong impetus into Hangzhou’s ambition to develop a national benchmark hub for AI+OPC entrepreneurship.

A series of key launches and milestone ceremonies took place during the opening segment. Official releases included the 2026 national OPC development observation report, Hangzhou’s 2026–2028 action plan and supporting policies to build a national AI+OPC entrepreneurship hub, and a catalog of actionable AI+OPC application scenarios. Attendees also received an in-depth interpretation of the specifications for AI-enabled OPC community services and evaluation.

The ceremony featured multiple landmark initiatives: plaque awarding for Hangzhou’s priority AI+OPC incubation communities and dedicated observation sites, the official launch of the AI+OPC Community Alliance initiative, and a kickoff marking the official construction of the national AI+OPC entrepreneurship hub.

The open forum session featured keynote speeches from distinguished industry and academic leaders. Speakers included Pan Yunhe, former executive vice president of the Chinese Academy of Engineering and professor at Zhejiang University; Liang Gui, former executive vice governor of Jiangxi Province and ex-director of the Torch High Technology Industry Development Center under the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology; and Zou Ling, head of Hong Hub, Shangcheng District’s single-member unicorn startup acceleration community, who shared cutting-edge insights from varied perspectives.

A panel dialogue followed, bringing together representatives from Moshu OPC Community (Beijing E-Town), the School of Future Science and Engineering at Soochow University, Qingju Hub · Future Digital Intelligence Port (Shangcheng District), and Puhua Capital for in-depth industry exchanges.

Complementary concurrent events held throughout the conference included an OPC capital-industry matchmaking salon, a symposium on industry-education integration for AI-powered OPC sectors, and a national exchange forum for AI+OPC community practitioners.

OPC has emerged as a vibrant new engine driving economic vitality and underpinning high-quality development. Against the backdrop of a new development era, the inaugural Hangzhou AI+OPC Innovation and Development Conference unites OPC innovators nationwide.

Drawing on the creative energy of millions of independent super-individual operators, the event delivers sustained digital momentum to fuel Hangzhou’s super-individual economy, while rolling out replicable local practices and actionable Hangzhou solutions to advance high-quality growth of smart economies nationwide.

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

World Cup Fever Returns: Learning Emotional Management on the Pitch

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 June 2026 – The four-yearly World Cup is in full swing, and the football fever once again sweeps the globe. The pitch has long been known as a “proving ground” for heroes; even for world-class players with years of experience, the joy of scoring a goal is often balanced by the sight of others in tears, frustrated by a defeat. The prowess of these players will be etched into the hearts of countless children, inspiring a lifelong love for the sport.

In the Play to Thrive programme, winning or losing isn't what matters; what's more important is building children's resilience.

Save the Children Hong Kong firmly believes that the football pitch is more than just a venue for competition—it is an ideal classroom for Social-emotional Learning. For eight-year-old Kai-long, the setbacks and failures experienced on the pitch have proven far more vital to his personal growth than mastering technical skills or perfecting “step-overs”.

The Play to Thrive programme empowers children to master emotional management and communication skills while staying active in sports. Compared to a “Zidane turn”, these are the skills that will truly serve them for a lifetime.

On the training ground, eight-year-old Kai-long’s skills are clearly “a cut above the rest”. From the way he carries the ball to the power of his strikes, he already carries himself like a mini professional. During internal matches, he frequently finds the back of the net, scoring multiple goals for his side.

However, the moments that truly bring a smile of approval to the coaches and teachers are not Kai-long’s technical displays, but his small yet heart-warming gestures. For instance, he is seen helping teammates by steadying the inflatable goalposts during shooting drills. Even when knocked down during a match, if the coach does not blow for a foul, Kai-long doesn’t complain; he simply brushes it off with a smile and gets straight back to chasing the ball.

When Excellence Becomes a Burden: Children Trapped by the Need to Win

“He has a personality that tends to be quite fixated on winning and losing. Because of his own performance, or because his classmates’ performance didn’t meet his expectations, he would sometimes experience emotional ups and downs,” explains Mr. Lui, the PE teacher. He admits that while Kai-long’s football skills are outstanding, his stubborn nature previously caused friction with teammates and classmates. Mr. Lui noted that since Kai-long was already a member of the school’s reserve team, he recommended him for the Play to Thrive programme not to “learn football”, but in the hope that he would learn how to get along with others.

Consequently, what moved Mr. Lui the most was not Kai-long’s “goal-scoring show”, but his reaction during a match when other students deliberately moved the inflatable goalposts. Instead of complaining or losing his temper as he might have done in the past, Kai-long continued to play with a smile on his face. “Previously, he might have called it unfair or had an emotional outburst, but today he didn’t complain; he even found it quite funny. He is no longer fixated on winning or losing.”

In the eyes of his father, Chung, Kai-long has been a child with extremely high expectations of himself and a drive for perfection since he was young. “Whether it is schoolwork or his behaviour, he hopes to be a good role model and be very well-behaved.” However, Chung also mentioned that this perfectionist streak serves as a source of pressure for Kai-long.

Interpersonal Skills Are More Important Than Footballing Ability

Chung admits that Kai-long used to be very fixated on winning and losing: “In the past, if he lost a game of football against his elder brother, he would be resentful; when he was younger, he even tried to hit him.” While it is natural to crave goals and seek victory on the pitch, Chung also believes that how one treats others and interacts with peers is a vital part of growing up, which is why he enrolled Kai-long in Play to Thrive.

“Football is a natural educational tool,” says Ms. Wong Shek Hung, Director of Hong Kong Programmes at Save the Children Hong Kong. She explains that experiencing victory, defeat, and frustration is inevitable in sports, providing the perfect opportunity for children to learn emotional management. She adds that Play to Thrive originated from a community football programme developed by Save the Children UK for children in Jordan and Indonesia.

The core of the programme lies in integrating Social-emotional Learning into football training to help children build five core competencies: self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Furthermore, the programme is open to all children regardless of gender, ethnicity, or background, allowing them to master self-awareness, emotional regulation, and team communication skills within a diverse and inclusive environment.

No Ordinary Football Training

As this is unlike conventional football training, every coach is required to undergo professional training covering “Child Safeguarding” and emotional support knowledge. Ms. Wong Shek Hung notes that during the “debriefing” session at the end of each practice, coaches guide the children to reflect on their experiences on the pitch, attempting to translate these moments into emotional literacy. The ultimate goal is “to let children learn how to become ‘masters of their own emotions’.”

Demonstrating Personal Growth and Cultivating Leadership Skills

Mr. Lui noticed that after joining the programme, Kai-long not only showed progress in his personal emotional management but also learned how to consider things from others’ perspectives. During PE lessons, Kai-long has become more willing to take the initiative to help his classmates and has learned to accept teammates with different abilities, even proactively coaching others. “He gets along with his classmates much more harmoniously now; the barriers that existed before have disappeared,” Mr. Lui remarked. He further revealed that Kai-long’s form teacher, having observed this growth, officially appointed him as a class monitor for the second term.

His father, Chung, observed that since joining the programme, Kai-long has demonstrated a level of resilience rarely seen before. He recalled a match where Kai-long served as both captain and goalkeeper; even when facing conceded goals and falling behind, “his first instinct wasn’t to feel discouraged, but rather to keep encouraging his teammates from the back to keep running and keep attacking.”

Ms. Wong Shek Hung reaffirmed that this is precisely the philosophy of Play to Thrive: “We emphasise ‘Football Second, Growth First’, ensuring that even if children lose a match, they learn to handle their emotions, communicate, and cooperate throughout the process.”

Building Resilience: Transforming Lives Through Football

Ms. Kalina Tsang, CEO of Save the Children Hong Kong, stated that she has always believed football is a powerful tool for building resilience in children: “We have always been concerned about children’s physical and mental well-being. Football is more than just a sport; beyond honing technical skills, it can be used to build a child’s resilience. By combining football training with Social-emotional Learning, and under the guidance of professionally trained coaches, Play to Thrive ensures that the sweat shed by children on the pitch is transformed into self-awareness and emotional management skills.” Ms. Tsang also noted that Kai-long’s growth perfectly embodies the programme’s success. She said, “We are deeply gratified to see Kai-long progress from initial emotional fluctuations to confidently cooperating with teammates and facing victory or defeat positively—improving both on a personal level and in his interactions with peers.”

As for Kai-long himself, it is difficult for an eight-year-old to describe his transformation in detail. But when asked what was different about him, he said with an innocent smile, “I used to blame my teammates for not passing the ball, but now I’ve learned not to. I tell them: ‘It’s okay, pass it again next time. We’ll win the ball back together.'”

Launched in Hong Kong in 2023, the Play to Thrive programme is a service that integrates Social-emotional Learning with football training. It aims to create a safe and supportive space for schoolchildren, promoting their physical, social, and mental health through sport. The programme currently operates across various districts in Hong Kong, including community teams in areas such as Sham Shui Po and Tin Shui Wai. The school-based project collaborates with over 30 primary schools across the territory, integrating football training into school life to help students recognise and manage their emotions, build healthy interpersonal relationships, and enhance their confidence and resilience. In response to the current situation where up to 39% of primary and secondary students in Hong Kong face mental health challenges, the programme places special emphasis on SEL to help children master effective communication and emotional management both on and off the pitch.

In 2025 alone, the community and school projects of Play to Thrive held a total of 744 training sessions, with total service hours exceeding 1,000 hours. The programme reached 1,120 children and their families across Hong Kong, establishing close partnerships with 32 schools and 4 non-profit organisations. In terms of impact assessment, participant satisfaction was high, with satisfaction rates for the community and school projects reaching 80% and 75%, respectively.

Interview Video: https://savethechildren.click/PTT-KaiLong-Video-2026
Hashtag: #SavetheChildrenHongKong #香港救助兒童會 #mentalhealth #精神健康 #football #足球 #WorldCup #世界盃





YouTube:

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

Save the Children Hong Kong

Save the Children believes every child deserves a future. In Hong Kong and around the world, we do whatever it takes – every day and in times of crisis – so children can fulfil their rights to a healthy start in life, the opportunity to learn and protection from harm. With over 100 years of expertise, we are the world’s first and leading independent children’s organisation – transforming lives and future.

Established in 2009, Save the Children Hong Kong is part of the global movement which operates in around 100 countries. We work with children, families, schools, communities and our supporters to deliver lasting change for children in Hong Kong and around the world.

VISHNU RAJA
RYO YAMADA
HITORI GOTOH
IKUYO KITA