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Largest-ever Hong Kong Tech Pavilion features 3 Innovation Award-winning game-changers showcasing immense potential to scale

LAS VEGAS, US – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 January 2026 – Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) and Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) will join hands in spearheading the largest-ever Hong Kong Tech Pavilion to the annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas from January 6-9 (Tue-Fri). The showcase features 61 tech companies in a dynamic mix of early-stage and mature companies in AI, robotics, healthtech, and sustainability, to signify Hong Kong’s fast-rising technology advancements and the ability to empower innovators in and out of the city to scale imagination to global impact.

Taking centre stage this year, Hong Kong Tech Pavilion stars with several CES Innovation Award winning solutions, as well as world-firsts, in a display of technology strength across the Eureka Park and Global Pavilion that includes companies less than five years old and more established ventures. Highlights include:

• Widemount Dynamics Tech: named Best of Innovation for Product in Support of Human Security for All, their Smart Firefighting Robot is designed to detect fires, navigate smoke-filled environments, provide real-time mapping, and determine the best extinguishing agent to minimize costs and risks for losses of life and asset.
• PointFit: honored under the Digital Health category, the PF-Sweat Patch is an ultra-thin wearable built with patented biomarkers tracking technology, it offers a non-invasive alternative with continuous monitoring of vitals and performance for athletes and wellbeing enthusiasts.
• Eieling Technology: honored under the Digital Health category, FattaLab® is the world’s first intelligence-driven compact fatty liver diagnostic device, delivering assessment results with medical-grade accuracy in just 30 seconds. The high level of convenience promotes early treatment to those who suffer from the disease, enabling immediate preventive care, and potentially boosts longevity.

Happenings such as announcement, product launches and briefings, and conversations to business-match at the Pavilions are lining up. That includes an introduction of GumAI, a smart oral healthcare solution developed by Dentomi, sharing more on the “Dentist coming in handy” approach; a demonstration of how DRESIO puts forth its “AI Physiotherapy for Everyone” solution; the launch of “wuBiee & wuBiee wrap” that moftBODY integrates neuroscience into smart textile onto daily shapewear, and more awaits at the Pavilions. Click here for the full line-up at Hong Kong Tech Pavilion, and schedule your visit now.

In addition, a Hong Kong Tech Networking Reception will be held on Day 2, welcoming all interested parties to engage in conversations of potential partnerships, and explore on business opportunities with Hong Kong tech companies. Registration is now open with details of the Reception as follows:

• Date: 7 January 2026
• Time: 5:30 – 7:30 pm
• Venue: Mercato Della Pescheria, The Venetian

Appendix: List of 61 tech companies at Hong Kong Tech Pavilion, including 47 within the HKSTP ecosystem (in alphabetical order)

Remarks:

• The Hong Kong Tech Pavilion is located across Eureka Park (booth #63200, Hall G) and Global Pavilion (booth #50732, Hall A-D) at The Venetian Expo.

Hashtag: #HKSTP

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HKSTP

More information about HKSTP is available at www.hkstp.org.

A five-day global phenomenon uniting world-class and Thai artists with eco-friendly fireworks—captivating millions and redefining Bangkok as a premier New Year countdown destination.

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 January 2026 – ICONSIAM, the global landmark on the banks of Thailand’s legendary Chao Phraya River, once again captured the world’s attention with “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2026“, a five-day world-class New Year celebration held from 27–31 December 2025 at River Park, ICONSIAM. Presented under the theme “A GLOBAL PHENOMENAL CELEBRATION AT THE ICON UNRIVALED,” the event united forces across public and private sectors to deliver an extraordinary global countdown experience. The River Park area was transformed into The Largest Entertainment Arena, featuring non-stop performances by more than 200 leading Thai and international artists across five themed nights, including Pop Power, Dance Force, Rock Infinity, Star Harmony and Global Phenomenon Stage.

The five-day celebration attracted over 1.8 million visitors from Thailand and around the world, placing Bangkok alongside the world’s leading countdown cities and reaffirming ICONSIAM as one of the top global countdown destinations.

Worldwide Media Broadcast and Record-Breaking Digital Impact

The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2026 generated over 100 million online views across all platforms over five days, reflecting its immense global reach and cultural resonance. The official hashtag #AmazingThailandCountdown2026 ranked No.1 trending in Thailand across Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter), underscoring the event’s dominance in both live attendance and digital engagement.

The celebration was broadcast live and reported nationwide and worldwide across major television and online platforms such as CNN, BBC, AP, AFP, CNBC-TV18, Reuters, NBC News, ABC News, CCTV, Hunan TV, Jiangsu TV, and Phoenix TV, among others, allowing audiences across continents to share in Thailand’s most spectacular year-end moment.

Grand Opening Scene and World-Class Entertainment

The grand opening scene on the night of 31 December unfolded as a spectacular fusion of traditional Thai artistry and international performances, led by Miss World 2025, Suchata Chuangsri. The showcase celebrated the beauty of Thai art, music, and heritage while honoring Thailand’s enduring legacy. The night continued with a stellar lineup of world-class and iconic Thai artists, performing against the breathtaking backdrop of the Chao Phraya River.

Where the Best of Thailand Meets the Best of the World

The pinnacle of the celebration, “The Unrivaled Global Performance: Where the Best of Thailand Meets the Best of the World,” came to life through an exclusive collaboration created especially for ICONSIAM’s countdown stage. This historic performance united world-class artist Mark Tuan with iconic Thai artists Jeff Satur and Phrimaphaa Khornrojjanachawin in a powerful rendition of the royal composition “Still on My Mind (In the Eternal Heart),” marking a truly unforgettable moment on the countdown stage.

1,400 Meters of Eco-Friendly Fireworks Celebrating Legacy and Sustainability

The grand fireworks presentation continued the tribute to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, whose grace lives eternally in the hearts of the Thai people. Directed by Okuchi Yoshimasa, an award-winning Japanese fireworks master, in collaboration with Thai creative teams, the display combined artistry, technology, and sustainability.

Crafted from Thai sticky rice, the eco-friendly fireworks produced vibrant colors with minimal smoke and environmental impact—reflecting ICONSIAM’s long-standing commitment to sustainability. The panoramic display was visible within an 8-kilometer radius, delivering a breathtaking visual experience across Bangkok’s skyline.

The Power of Partnerships Driving Global Success

The success of Amazing Thailand Countdown 2026 reflects the strength of collaboration across both public and private sectors. ICONSIAM received major support from the Tourism Authority of Thailand, alongside leading private organizations, including Charoen Pokphand Group Company Limited, and many esteemed partners.

These collaborations underscore the power of public-private partnerships in elevating Thailand’s presence on the global stage and reinforcing the nation’s position as one of the world’s most distinguished New Year countdown destinations.

This historic performance ushered in 2026 with grandeur, emotion, and unforgettable memories—leaving a lasting impression on audiences around the world and reaffirming ICONSIAM as a must-visit global landmark. For more information and updates on upcoming events at ICONSIAM, please visit www.iconsiam.com

Hashtag: #ICONSIAM #AmazingThailandCountdown2025 #ICONSIAMCountdown2025

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Showcasing transparent MicroLED, ultra-bright HUD, and naked-eye 3D displays to redefine the display landscape across retail, cockpit, and smart device applications

LAS VEGAS, USA – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 January 2026 – Innolux will showcase its next-generation display technology in Las Vegas, USA from January 6 to 8, under the theme “Display the Future, TOGETHER.” Powered by high brightness, high resolution, and immersive experiences, Innolux meets the evolving demands of smart retail, cockpit displays, smart homes, and commercial exhibitions, demonstrating its forward-looking strength in cross-domain integration, application innovation, and market deployments.

Next-generation MicroLED transparent displays reshape the visual experience across retail settings

For the first time, Innolux will unveil its next-generation “MicroLED Display Window,” delivering a clearer, more eye-catching spatial visual experience through high clarity, high transmittance, high brightness, and high resolution. Featuring self-illuminating technology, an advanced optical structure, and a wide color gamut, the product delivers outstanding visibility even in strong ambient light, while its high-resolution design blends visual elegance with clear and efficient information recognition. Transparent displays can simultaneously showcase product information, dynamic advertisements, and navigation content, cutting wait times and easing operational demands, while accommodating a variety of sizes and shapes with the world’s largest modular splicing unit. This solution seamlessly integrates digital information into real-world settings, making it ideal for applications such as commercial window displays and museum exhibits, while delivering a new immersive display experience for retail and smart environments.

Dual MicroLED technology debuts, upgrading marine and automotive displays with ultra-high brightness and minimalist aesthetics

Innolux is unveiling its first “Ultra-High Brightness MicroLED HUD,” delivering ultra-high direct brightness (50,000 nits) and reflective virtual image brightness (10,000 nits). This breakthrough solves the challenges of reflections and image blurring caused by intense light in marine and automotive environments. Even under strong sunlight or reflections from the sea surface or deck, the HUD clearly presents waterways, sea conditions, and navigation instructions, thereby enhancing cockpit visibility. Critical information can be projected directly in the line of sight or front field of vision, minimizing eye movement while improving operational safety and application flexibility.

This year’s event will also highlight the next-generation “MicroLED Decoration Display,” which pair high brightness with an elegant wood grain design, ideal for ship cabins and car interiors. When powered off, the display blends seamlessly into its surroundings like a wood panel; when on, its specialized optical structure delivers high transmittance with minimal brightness loss, meeting ESG standards. Leveraging MicroLED technology, the display achieves 2,000 nits brightness, 229 PPI resolution, and 115% NTSC color gamut, ensuring clear visibility even under strong light. By merging aesthetics with functionality, it broadens the range of applications for interior displays.

Multi-view 3D and mirror displays dramatically boost product display efficiency

Innolux has launched the industry’s first “65″ Multi-Users N3D & Kirameki Display(8K)” for retail and exhibition applications. The display combines exclusive N3D multi-view naked-eye 3D technology with the Kirameki algorithm, overcoming the limitations of traditional 2D displays and delivering a more immersive, lifelike stereoscopic experience. N3D allows multiple users to view 3D content simultaneously, maintaining comfort over extended periods while clearly rendering the product’s three-dimensional form. Meanwhile, Kirameki enhances luster, texture, and material details, creating a natural lighting effect from every angle. This boosts product recognition, extends customer engagement, and enriches the interactive experience, making it ideal for retail and boutique displays as well as digital advertising.

Also on display will be an industry first—the “InnoMirror,” which features high-reflection coated glass and local dimming technology to enhance contrast and sharpness while reducing mirror reflection interference. When powered off, the display appears as a mirror; when on, it delivers product information and enables virtual try-on, color matching, and item switching, thus reducing wait times, minimizing wear, and easing staff workloads. This makes it perfect for a range of environments, from boutiques and beauty retailers to smart homes.

Exclusive N3D display technology, paired with low-latency performance and eye-tracking, delivers an immersive naked-eye 3D experience

Innolux is unveiling its “16″ Single User N3D Display,” featuring exclusive N3D technology and a 2D restoration algorithm. The system limits 3D latency to under 1 millisecond, effectively reducing crosstalk and visual discomfort. It also supports seamless switching between 3D and 2D, while eye-tracking ensures a natural, immersive viewing experience.

At the exhibition, Innolux will showcase a range of innovative displays for applications including laptops, AI notebooks, and outdoor and in-flight entertainment, highlighting its latest breakthroughs in display technology. Products on display include the “Multi-Frequency Display (MFD)” and the “Integrated Touch Display.” The former leverages multi-frequency display technology to automatically switch between 24Hz, 60Hz, and 120Hz refresh rates depending on the content, thus optimizing video quality, gaming and graphics smoothness, and energy efficiency. Meanwhile, the Integraded Touch Display incorporates a tTED IC chip design, supports refresh rates from 30Hz to 120Hz, streamlines the PCBA assembly, and features a thin, lightweight form factor. Also on display are the “Ultra Slim and Light LCD Display with Carbon Fiber Bezel,” the “17.3″UHD MiniLED Local Dimming” and the “13.3″ MiniLED for in Fly Entertaiment Display.” Through these debuting products, Innolux exemplifies the integration of high performance, energy efficiency, and portability, reinforcing its leadership in defining the next generation of smart display technology.

Hashtag: #Innolux

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Ras Al Khaimah ushered in 2026 with a choreographed New Year’s Eve display that combined fireworks and drone technology on a scale not previously attempted in the emirate, securing a Guinness World Records title for the largest aerial image of a phoenix formed by multirotor drones. The 15-minute presentation unfolded along the waterfront, drawing large crowds and positioning the northern emirate at the centre of global attention as midnight celebrations rolled across time zones.

Officials confirmed that thousands of drones were deployed in tightly synchronised formations above the coast, producing a series of animated images that culminated in the phoenix, a symbol chosen to reflect renewal and ambition. The aerial sequence was interwoven with precision fireworks launched from multiple barges and shoreline points, creating a layered effect across sea and sky. Guinness adjudicators on site verified the specifications shortly after the display concluded, confirming the new benchmark had been met.

The event formed part of Ras Al Khaimah’s wider strategy to build a reputation for large-scale, family-friendly celebrations that draw international visitors beyond the traditional holiday hotspots. Organisers said months of preparation were required to coordinate aviation safety, maritime controls and public access, with authorities temporarily restricting airspace and marine traffic during the performance window. Emergency services and transport agencies operated under special plans to manage the influx of spectators along the coastal stretch.

Tourism officials described the New Year event as a showcase of how technology is reshaping public celebrations worldwide. Drone-based performances have grown rapidly over the past decade as an alternative to fireworks, offering reusable hardware, programmable precision and reduced debris. By combining both elements, the emirate aimed to deliver visual impact while demonstrating technical capability. Industry specialists note that such hybrid shows demand advanced software, redundant navigation systems and real-time monitoring to avoid collisions or signal loss.

Local hospitality operators reported strong occupancy across hotels and resorts, with restaurants and public viewing areas reaching capacity well before midnight. The celebrations extended across several zones, allowing visitors to experience the show from beaches, promenades and elevated vantage points. Authorities encouraged spectators to use public transport and designated parking areas to ease congestion, a measure that helped maintain steady pedestrian flows before and after the countdown.

The Guinness title adds to a growing list of high-profile achievements used by destinations to differentiate themselves in a competitive tourism market. Record-driven events have become a common tool to generate global media coverage and social media traction, though experts caution that they require careful balancing of spectacle, safety and sustainability. In this case, organisers highlighted the use of digitally controlled drones to minimise environmental impact compared with traditional fireworks-only displays, while acknowledging that pyrotechnics remain a key draw for audiences.

Cultural planners involved in the programme said the phoenix motif was selected to resonate across diverse audiences while aligning with the emirate’s long-term development narrative. The animated sequence depicted the bird rising and spreading its wings before dissolving into abstract patterns, followed by a countdown rendered in light above the water. Fireworks then traced the skyline in timed bursts, synchronised to a musical score broadcast along the shore.

The success of the event is likely to influence planning for future festivals and national celebrations, both within the emirate and across the region. Drone show providers are already expanding fleets and investing in higher-capacity batteries, brighter LEDs and more resilient communications links to support increasingly complex formations. Analysts say destinations that master these capabilities early can scale performances quickly for major occasions.

“The Forever Gifts: A Natural Diamond Series” the ultimate destination for bespoke natural diamond master creations in Hong Kong, launched with a line-up of activities at Lane Crawford’s flagship retail space in IFC mall. Renowned actress Charmaine Sheh, fashion trendsetter Hilary Tsui, VIPs, media members and influencers from Hong Kong and China were invited to explore exquisite natural diamond collections, thoughtfully curated by Lane Crawford.

This special series starts with a selection of contemporary fine jewellery brands, each offering a unique design story and a commitment to creativity and excellence. They include State Property, YEPREM, Mio Harutaka, KORLOFF and Claudia Ma Fine Jewellery. “This collaboration marks an important moment for Lane Crawford. Together with De Beers, we’re creating a destination that celebrates the beauty of natural diamonds through exceptional craftsmanship and global creativity. This exclusive space reimagines how clients engage with fine jewellery – bringing artistry, innovation, and the opportunity to design something truly personal.” Emily Wong, Senior Vice President of Merchandising at Lane Crawford.

The exclusive event brought a series of interactive workshops led by experts Jodine Bolden and Samantha Sibley from the De Beers Institute of Diamonds alongside London-based multi-disciplinary artist Annette Fernando.

At the natural diamond workshop, participants gained hands-on experience on rough diamond sorting, polished diamond grading, and differentiation of natural diamonds versus synthetics. Participants also had the unique opportunity of viewing a nearby 297-carat rough diamond and kimberlite carrying a 22-carat rough diamond. Also on display was a gem called “Beating Heart”, a 0.329-carat rough diamond that features a smaller diamond moving freely inside its larger counterpart, a rarity that showcases the extraordinary conditions under which diamonds can form. This exquisite piece, recovered by De Beers Group and analyzed at the facilities of De Beers Institute of Diamonds, is recorded on the Tracr platform, giving insight into its history and heritage. Upon completion of the workshop, each participant received a natural diamond masterclass certificate from the De Beers Institute of Diamonds.

“We are pleased to partner with Lane Crawford for this special series of events to proudly recognize the enduring value of natural diamonds, and to honour the artists who continue to bring life to these creations.” says Loletta Lai, Vice President, Natural Diamonds APAC De Beers Group.

Complementing the technical insight offered by the De Beers Institute of Diamonds, artist Annette Fernando shared her art creations inspired by natural diamonds, named The Multi-Faceted Self. Through a reflective coloring workshop, Annette invited participants to explore the transformative journey of natural diamonds as a metaphor for personal growth and resilience.

The partnership between A Diamond is Forever and Lane Crawford spotlights crafted natural diamond pieces sourced and styled from around the globe, the most treasured gifts ever! These iconic legacy brands and exciting new talent alike, all centered around the timeless beauty of natural diamonds, come together at Lane Crawford, the ultimate destination for discovery, craftsmanship, and contemporary luxury.

Featured Brands

Claudia Ma Fine Jewellery
Claudia Ma, driven by a passion for modern high jewelry and an unwavering dedication to quality, founded her eponymous brand, Claudia Ma, in 2000. With a distinctive design sensibility and an eye for artistic aesthetics, she masterfully reinterprets classic themes through innovative modern expressions. Her creations have earned widespread acclaim for their signature style and exceptional craftsmanship. Over the years, Claudia has collaborated with renowned names such as Shanghai Tang, Lane Crawford, and De Beers Group Forevermark, solidifying her brand’s standing in Hong Kong’s fine jewelry landscape.

Her latest work draws inspiration from the barbell as a symbol of balance, focus, and strength. Crafted in 18k gold and accented with natural diamonds, these versatile pieces embody resilience while seamlessly elevating everyday style.

According to Claudia, “Natural diamonds and craftsmanship go hand in hand. Craftsmanship brings out the diamond’s inner brilliance, while my design presents this timeless classic in a modern way for generations to enjoy. Without this artistry, even the finest diamond remains just a hidden treasure.”

State Property
An award-winning contemporary fine jewellery label from Singapore, State Property fuses modern design with traditional craftsmanship. Founded in 2015 by a jeweller and an industrial designer, the brand draws inspiration from culture, literature, and history—bringing to life structured silhouettes in precious metals that embrace the softness of the human form.

“There’s an emotional gravity with natural diamonds that’s hard to replicate, State Property shares. “Their rarity, beauty, and resilience make them extraordinary. Each one a fragment of the earth’s story, time in a crystallised form. We’re drawn to materials that carry meaning, and diamonds embody permanence, memory, and the quiet luxury of time. At State Property, we strive to have those same qualities reflected in our own work — creating jewellery with intention, designed to endure and be cherished across generations.”

YEPREM
Known for its avant-garde creations, House of YEPREM is a family-run brand that continues to push the boundaries of contemporary diamond jewellery. With a legacy rooted in timeless craftsmanship and visionary design, YEPREM’s striking pieces are now celebrated across America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

“Natural diamonds are the ultimate expression of authenticity and endurance, virtues that mirror YEPREM’s journey and craftsmanship. Born from time, pressure, and perseverance, each diamond holds the essence of transformation and strength. Their inherent brilliance and purity transcend trends, embodying emotion and individuality. In YEPREM’s world, a natural diamond is not merely a material, it is the foundation upon which stories of resilience and radiance are told.”

Mio Harutaka
Crafted in Japan by local artisans, MIO HARUTAKA channels the beauty of Mother Nature into every design. The brand, founded in 2011, is committed to achieving diamond traceability and sustainability while maintaining exceptional artisanal craftsmanship. Harutaka shares: “Craftsmanship is essential—it accounts for almost everything. All of these details depend entirely on the skills of the craftsmen. Craftsmanship is what allows me to welcome close, hands-on appreciation, knowing that each piece will meet that level of scrutiny with confidence and beauty.”

KORLOFF
Since 1978, KORLOFF has been a symbol of true femininity—magnetic, adventurous, and bold. Renowned for crafting exquisite bespoke jewelry, each piece reflects daring designs and the unmatched artistry of French craftsmanship, showcasing the Maison’s boundless creativity and passion. “Our story began with a diamond, the Black Korloff, the largest brilliant-cut natural black diamond in the world. Its uniqueness, shaped over millions of years, continues to inspire us every day as a symbol of mystery, transformation, and the magic of nature. Natural diamonds possess an authenticity and depth that no other material can replicate. They remind us that beauty is born from time, pressure, and light, forces that mirror the creative journey behind each Korloff jewel.”

Meet the De Beers Institute of Diamonds Experts:

Jodine Bolden, Director of Education De Beers Institute of Diamonds
Jodine has previously developed her career as an operations line manager within large FMCG companies, and European HR Management roles within the luxury Health & Beauty industry where she first developed her passion for creating exceptional consumer experiences. After moving to De Beers, she worked as HR Manager for 5 years and discovered her fascination for diamonds as she supported various global functions across the De Beers estate, she then involved creating the Institute of Diamonds Education Service and developing each course that they now offer to their clients.

Since 2018 the De Beers Institute of Diamonds Education Service has provided education on a range of diamond subjects including, Rough Diamond Sorting, Polished Diamond Grading and Laboratory-Grown Detection.

Samantha Sibley, Technical Liaison Manager De Beers Group, UK
With over 30 years’ experience in De Beers’ research, development and commercial teams, Samantha brings a wealth of knowledge regarding the characteristics of both natural and laboratory-grown diamonds. She has been involved in the development of De Beers Group’s current and previous suites of verification instruments and currently also facilitates training and educational courses around the world on the use of these instruments for accurate screening results. Other projects involve research into irradiation and HPHT colour treatments and the utilisation of this information to develop screening processes within the De Beers grading laboratories.

Sam has a BTEC Higher National Certificate in Physics, is a diamond fellow of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (DGA) and holds a team leader qualification from Leadership Management UK and the Chartered Management Institute. She has presented on diamond topics globally and has had first-hand experience of the diamond industry over many years through visits to mines, cutting centres, polishing factories, gemmological laboratories and tradeshows.

Annette Fernando, Commissioned Artist, “The Multi-Faceted Self” at The Forever Gifts: A Natural Diamond Series
Annette Fernando (b. 1991, London) is a multi-disciplinary artist and curator. She holds a BA in Fine Art from Central Saint Martins and is currently pursuing an MA in Contemporary Art at Sotheby’s Institute of Art, where she was awarded the prestigious Cultural Leaders Scholarship.

Fernando’s artistic repertoire spans drawing, printmaking, painting, and film. Fernando’s current work is driven to immortalise natures scenes, capturing the beauty of moments often overlooked through various mediums. Fernando’s work has garnered significant recognition, including winning the Jerwood Drawing Prize in 2014 and selections for the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition in 2021 and 2023. Her pieces are held in public and private collections across the USA, France, Hong Kong, and the UK.

Hashtag: #adiamondisforeverhk #lanecrawford #adiamondisforever #theforevergifts #naturaldiamonds #diamonds

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About De Beers Group

Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with diamond mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers Jewellers and Forevermark, and other pioneering solutions such as diamond sourcing and traceability initiatives Tracr and GemFair. De Beers Group also provides leading services and technology to the diamond industry in the form of education and laboratory services via De Beers Institute of Diamonds and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology systems via De Beers Group Ignite. De Beers Group is committed to ‘Building Forever,’ a holistic and integrated approach for creating a better future – where safety, human rights and ethical integrity continue to be paramount; where communities thrive and the environment is protected; and where there are equal

opportunities for all. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo American PLC group. For further information, visit www.debeersgroup.com.

About Lane Crawford

Founded in 1850, Lane Crawford is an iconic luxury department store, with a mission to search the world for the most exciting talent and product, to create the ultimate luxury edit of fashion and lifestyle for its customers across Greater China. Featuring the largest own-bought designer portfolio across Womenswear, Menswear, Beauty & Wellbeing,

Home and Lifestyle, and Fine Jewellery in the region, Lane Crawford constantly evolves its product, experience, and services offer to embrace the most innovative and relevant designers and exceptional craftsmanship of the season, and to reflect the dynamic pace of its market and customers.

With four stores in Hong Kong; and three stores across Shanghai, Beijing and Chengdu, supported by a global digital flagship, and a purpose-built ecommerce site for China and WeChat store, Lane Crawford is Greater China’s first and only omni-channel luxury fashion retailer. Each store is personalised to its location and designed to provide sensory experience, fusing fashion, design, art and music, while offering exceptional service.

Lane Crawford is a part of The Lane Crawford Joyce Group, Asia’s premier fashion retail, brand management and distribution group, which also includes cutting-edge fashion boutique Joyce; and fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brand management and distribution business ImagineX Group.

Abu Dhabi Government has enacted a sweeping overhaul of its human resources framework, introducing legislation that redefines how the public sector hires, develops and rewards its workforce of more than 25,000 employees. The 2026 Human Resources Law, which takes effect on 1 January 2026, is positioned by policymakers as a cornerstone reform aimed at making the government an employer of choice while embedding meritocracy across all levels of service.

Officials say the law marks a decisive shift away from traditional tenure-driven systems towards performance-based employment, aligning public sector practices with international standards followed by leading governments and multinational organisations. By prioritising capability, outcomes and continuous development, the framework seeks to attract high-performing professionals, retain specialist talent and strengthen institutional efficiency as Abu Dhabi advances its long-term economic and social ambitions.

Under the new legislation, recruitment and promotion will be governed by transparent, merit-based criteria designed to ensure fairness and competitiveness. Vacancies are to be filled through processes that assess skills, experience and demonstrated results rather than length of service alone. Career progression pathways have been formalised, providing employees with clearer expectations on how performance, leadership potential and expertise translate into advancement.

Compensation and benefits have also been recalibrated to enhance competitiveness with the private sector and global public institutions. The law introduces a more flexible benefits structure that can be adapted to different professional categories, recognising the need to attract scarce skills in areas such as digital transformation, policy design, financial oversight and advanced technical roles. While base pay structures remain regulated, performance-linked incentives are expected to play a larger role in recognising exceptional contribution.

Training and professional development form a central pillar of the reform. The legislation mandates structured learning pathways aligned with organisational needs and individual career plans, reinforcing the principle that advancement is tied to continuous capability building. Government entities are required to invest systematically in upskilling, leadership development and succession planning, ensuring that talent pipelines are sustained internally rather than relying heavily on external recruitment.

The law also introduces clearer frameworks for performance management and accountability. Employees will be assessed against defined objectives linked to institutional priorities, with evaluations feeding directly into promotion, development opportunities and, where necessary, corrective measures. This approach is intended to foster a culture of results, collaboration and innovation across departments.

Labour relations and employee wellbeing are addressed through updated provisions governing work arrangements, leave policies and workplace conduct. Flexible working models are expanded to reflect evolving expectations around productivity and work-life balance, while safeguards are strengthened to ensure fairness, inclusivity and professional integrity. Disciplinary procedures have been standardised to provide due process and consistency across government entities.

From a governance perspective, the reform centralises strategic oversight of human resources while allowing operational flexibility at entity level. This balance is designed to maintain uniform standards across the public sector while enabling departments to respond to their specific workforce needs. Digital systems are expected to support implementation, enabling data-driven workforce planning and more accurate measurement of performance outcomes.

Policy analysts view the legislation as part of a broader regional trend in which Gulf governments are modernising civil service frameworks to support economic diversification and competitiveness. Abu Dhabi’s approach stands out for its emphasis on measurable performance and its explicit effort to position public service as a destination for top-tier talent rather than a default career choice.

Business leaders and human capital specialists note that the success of the law will depend on consistent execution and cultural adoption. Embedding meritocracy requires not only new rules but also managerial capability to assess performance objectively and provide constructive feedback. The transition period in 2026 is therefore expected to involve extensive training for line managers and human resources professionals.

Prime Minister celebrated the New Year together with Malaysians and officially kicked off Visit Malaysia 2026 at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, amid captivating pyromusical fireworks, drone formations, laser shows, and stunning 3D anamorphic projections, alongside a star-studded lineup of top artistes

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 January 2026 – Malaysia ushered in the New Year on a high note as the Visit Malaysia 2026 (VM2026) Countdown Festival culminated in a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration at Pavilion Kuala Lumpur. The landmark event, a strategic collaboration between The Fame Events, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur and the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), serves as an iconic curtain-raiser that ignited the national momentum and aspirations for the VM2026 campaign.

The highlight of the night was the countdown moment led by YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Prime Minister of Malaysia as the Guest of Honour, who joined thousands of Malaysians and visitors to welcome the New Year. Underscoring the national significance of the occasion, the celebration was also attended by YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia.

YB Dato Sri Tiong King Sing, Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, stated: “This celebration was a symbolic event to ignite the momentum for VM2026 while welcoming the world to our shores. Malaysia is now fully ready to showcase its unique culture, creativity, and the warm hospitality of its people. It marks a strong head start towards our aspiration of 43 million international visitor arrivals, further solidifying our position on the global tourism map.”

The VM2026 Countdown Festival stood as a grand manifestation of Malaysia’s excellence on the global stage. Drawing thousands of domestic and international visitors, the New Year’s Eve celebration featured a breathtaking multimedia extravaganza, seamlessly integrating pyromusical fireworks, drone formations and laser projections. A key highlight was the stunning 3D anamorphic display starring the campaign’s beloved Malayan Sun Bear mascots, Wira and Manja.

The main stage was also graced by a stellar lineup of renowned local artistes, including Shila Amzah, Aina Abdul, Belle Sisoski, Vanessa Reynauld, Kidd Santhe, The Kuans, KLP48, Nazu, Rezza Shah, Danson Ooi, Euzen, and Penny. Their performances were complemented by dedicated cultural showcases that blended traditional rhythms with modern beats, elevating the celebratory atmosphere of the night.

The VM2026 Countdown Festival was a wider festive programme that began as early as 26 December 2025, extending the celebrations beyond the heart of the city. Parallel events and activities were held, offering visitors a glimpse of Malaysia’s rich heritage and creative spirit while embodying the essence of Truly Asia.

These included the VM2026 Bazaar at Pavilion Bukit Jalil, VM2026 Arts & Culture Showcase at Fahrenheit 88, featuring cultural pop-ups, interactive experiences such as batik art, porcelain making, wau decoration among others and showcases that drew strong public participation over several days. Malaysia’s vibrant food scene was brought to life at the VM2026 Bukit Bintang Food Bazaar, Lot 10, presenting a curated mix of traditional cuisines, local favourites and contemporary delights.

The build-up was further amplified by daily live 10 iconic DJs, flash mobs at the Bukit Bintang Crossing, Malaysia’s very own infamous Shibuya crossing and busking performances across key locations, creating a steady prelude to the countdown and sparking excitement both on the ground and across social media.

VM2026 provides a platform to bring Malaysia’s narrative to the global stage, guided by five strategic pillars: sustainability, cultural heritage, nature-based adventure, digital innovation, and global connectivity. However, these strengths will only truly shine when celebrated together by all Malaysians.

The festival was organised with the strong support of Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and Tourism Malaysia as key partners. The success of the event was also made possible through collaboration with strategic partners, including Istana Budaya, the National Department for Culture and Arts (JKKN), the National Heritage Department, and the Malaysian Handicraft Development Corporation.

As the immersive countdown finale illuminated the Kuala Lumpur skyline, the VM2026 Countdown Festival marked a confident and celebratory opening to the tourism year ahead, reaffirming Malaysia’s readiness to welcome the world in 2026.

The year 2026 will be anchored by a series of mega events, including major festive celebrations such as Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Chinese New Year, and Deepavali, which will showcase Malaysia’s rich cultural and ethnic diversity while enhancing visitor experiences through a vibrant presentation of local arts, heritage, and entertainment.

This momentum will be driven by the implementation of a wide range of high-impact tourism events and programmes, encompassing cultural festivals, conventions, and MICE activities (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions), as well as large-scale tourism exhibitions. Adopted on a nationwide scale, this approach aims to expand tourism reach, encourage longer visitor stays, and provide meaningful opportunities for travellers to experience the distinct cultural identities of Malaysia’s diverse regions.

Hashtag: #VM2026Countdown #VisitMalaysia2026 #SurrealExperiences #MalaysiaTrulyAsia

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DL Securities’ formal approval as a licensed virtual asset service provider means that the sizeable digital asset and real-world asset (RWA) tokenization landscape being built by the Group will be delivered to global investors through a compliant, secure, and efficient channel — representing a critical step toward the inclusive-finance vision of “Investing Made Simple.”

Following the license upgrade, DL Securities plans to open omnibus accounts with OSL — one of the SFC-licensed virtual asset trading platforms in Hong Kong — to provide professional investors with secure and efficient execution services, including virtual asset trading and conversion between virtual assets and fiat currencies. The Company will implement stringent Know-Your-Customer (KYC) and Anti-Money Laundering (AML) procedures, perform continuous monitoring and risk assessment together with the platform, and conduct knowledge assessments for clients to ensure that services operate under the highest compliance standards.

To ensure prudence and regulatory alignment, DL Securities will strictly follow the additional conditions of the SFC and conduct virtual asset transactions via omnibus accounts on SFC-licensed platforms. Meanwhile, services will primarily target professional investor clients within its existing Type 1 regulated activity (securities dealing). This demonstrates that while embracing digital-finance innovation, DL Securities will continue to uphold Hong Kong’s rigorous regulatory framework and remain committed to delivering secure and compliant virtual asset services to high-net-worth clients.

Ahead of many licensed brokers whose roles remain focused only on “distribution,” DL has already established forward-looking strategic layouts in both asset digitalization and digital-asset investment, building a solid asset foundation for future business expansion. In terms of innovative RWA tokenization, the HK$500 million DL Tower located in Hong Kong’s Central district has formally commenced tokenization, with an initial tranche valued at HK$60 million. At the same time, the Group has completed the tokenization plan for its HK$312 million equity interest in the ultra-luxury U.S. real estate project ONE Carmel, aiming to pioneer an innovative shareholder-return mechanism. In addition, the Group has completed tokenization of nearly HK$40 million equity stakes in leading technology companies such as ByteDance and Kraken, enriching the diversity and growth potential of its digital-asset portfolio.

In terms of strategic investment in digital assets, the Group has likewise advanced its deployment. In computing power, nearly ten thousand high-performance mining rigs have been procured, generating close to two Bitcoins per day. The Group has also mapped out an additional HK$800 million digital-asset investment pathway, including HK$560 million into computing power and HK$240 million into tokenized gold assets. Cooperation with digital-asset asset-management platform Antalpha has achieved substantive progress, with an initial allocation of nearly HK$40 million in gold tokens completed. Meanwhile, continued investment in the fintech platform NeuralFin has delivered outstanding results — the platform’s valuation has reached HK$546 million and it has officially initiated preparations for U.S. listing, further strengthening the Group’s integrated digital-finance ecosystem.

Approval of the virtual-asset license provides crucial regulatory support for DL Securities to introduce the Group’s scarce, high-quality virtual-asset and RWA products to the broader investment market in a compliant and secure manner. Going forward, DL Securities will be able to offer professional and institutional investors compliant trading and professional advisory services covering mainstream digital assets such as BTC and ETH, as well as proprietary real-estate and equity-type RWA products. High-quality physical assets and frontier digital assets — once characterized by high thresholds and low liquidity — can now be transformed into fractional, tradeable digital rights, allowing broader groups of investors to share in the dividends of technological and asset-value growth.

Against the backdrop of global asset digitalization, RWA tokenization is becoming a key direction of financial innovation. While Chinese Mainland remains prudent toward such businesses, Hong Kong SAR — guided by a clear, stable, and internationally aligned regulatory framework — is actively assuming the role of a “testing ground.” Seizing this window of opportunity, DL has leveraged its deep understanding of the Hong Kong market, completed its virtual-asset deployment ahead of peers, and successfully obtained a pivotal license. This not only reflects DL’s strategic foresight but also its active participation in building Hong Kong into a global virtual-asset hub — firmly capturing first-mover advantages.

Mr. Andy Chen, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of DL Holdings Group, stated:”This approval of our virtual-asset license is a milestone that has come naturally. DL has long ceased to be a bystander waiting for the license—we are already deeply engaged, holding substantial high-quality digital assets and RWAs. The license is a key — it opens the door for us to provide compliant services to investors worldwide. Looking ahead, DL will fully leverage our capital strength, asset reserves, and ecosystem advantages to become a trusted bridge connecting traditional finance and the digital-finance world.”

This license upgrade represents an important milestone in the Group’s deepening digital-finance strategy and embrace of fintech innovation. It is expected not only to significantly enhance business diversification and revenue potential but also to position the Company strongly in the digital-asset markets of Hong Kong and the Asia-Pacific region. Through rigorous compliance frameworks, professional teams, and deep collaboration with licensed platforms, DL Securities will provide professional investors with secure, efficient, and transparent virtual-asset financial services. Following the upgrade of Type 1 to include virtual-asset trading, the upgrade procedure for its Type 4 license (advising on securities) is also currently under final SFC review.

Hashtag: #DLHoldings #DLSecurities #SFC #LicensedBroker #RWATokenization #TokenizedAssets

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William Zhang, President of Enterprise Business at Huawei Thailand, stated, “The new power system faces trends such as green energy integration and interactive power consumption. Digitalization and intelligence are key to addressing these challenges. As critical nodes in the grid, substations must be upgraded to enhance overall reliability. The solution we launched with PEA uses optical-visual linkage and AI-based predictive maintenance to enable intelligent inspections and efficient O&M, ensuring substations run safely, reliably, and efficiently.”

Pantong Thinsatit, Assistant Governor for Grid Network Operations at PEA, added, “Digital transformation is essential for high-quality development in the power industry. PEA is accelerating substation intelligence by harnessing innovation to reshape energy services. We’ve deployed intelligent unattended systems in 467 substations, using cutting-edge technology to ensure safe operations. Moving forward, we will push for full automation, eliminate data silos, and integrate smart poles, license plate recognition, battery monitoring, and emergency buttons for rapid, precise responses. This will make intelligent substations central to the energy ecosystem and provide a replicable model for industry-wide digital transformation.”

Traditional substations often struggle with three major issues: limited security monitoring, inefficient and error-prone manual inspections, and outdated cabling that causes high latency and poor stability, restricting multi-service processing and intelligent scheduling. Huawei’s solution tackles these challenges with three core capabilities:

Perimeter Protection—All-Weather Digital Security

Using fiber optic sensing and AI algorithms, the system automatically detects intrusions, links with video surveillance devices, and allows remote verification—shifting from reactive to proactive security with round-the-clock monitoring.

Intelligent Inspection—Innovative Maintenance

Multi-scenario AI inspection algorithms, computer vision models, and cloud-edge collaboration support automatic meter reading and transformer oil leakage warnings, enabling real-time remote management and minute-level fault responses.

Full Connectivity—Comprehensive Sensing Network

Intra-station passive optical networks (PONs) significantly reduce deployment time and costs, forming the power grid’s “nervous system” to deliver reliable, high-speed connectivity for intelligent O&M.

This joint achievement underscores Huawei and PEA’s progress in technological innovation and ecosystem cooperation. Looking ahead, Huawei will continue to work closely with Thai power companies and partners to accelerate the digital and intelligent transformation of the power sector.
Hashtag: #Huawei

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The United Arab Emirates is on course to generate more than one million additional jobs by 2030, placing it among the world’s fastest-expanding labour markets as economic diversification, technology adoption and population growth intensify demand for skilled workers, according to a workforce outlook released by ServiceNow.

The projection underscores the scale of change under way in the UAE’s employment landscape, where public and private sector investment is being channelled into advanced industries, digital services, clean energy, logistics and financial technology. Policymakers have positioned job creation as a central pillar of national economic strategy, linking employment growth to productivity gains, innovation and long-term competitiveness.

ServiceNow’s analysis indicates that the strongest employment momentum is emerging in technology-led roles, particularly in cloud computing, artificial intelligence operations, cybersecurity, data analytics and enterprise software services. Demand is also rising for professionals who can combine technical skills with business process expertise, reflecting the increasing automation of workflows across government entities, banks, energy companies and logistics firms.

This expansion is unfolding alongside steady population growth driven by immigration, as professionals from Asia, Europe and Africa relocate to the UAE for work opportunities. Labour market specialists say the inflow of skilled workers has become an economic asset, helping employers fill gaps in high-value roles while supporting consumption and domestic demand.

Beyond technology, job creation is expected to be broad-based. Construction and real estate continue to absorb labour as infrastructure spending remains strong, while tourism, hospitality and aviation are benefitting from sustained visitor growth and expanding airline capacity. Healthcare and education are also projected to add sizeable numbers of jobs as authorities invest in social infrastructure to support a larger and more diverse population.

The digital transformation of government services has emerged as a significant employment driver. Federal and emirate-level entities are accelerating the shift towards paperless operations, data-driven decision-making and AI-enabled public services. This has increased demand for systems architects, digital policy specialists and programme managers who can oversee complex technology deployments while ensuring regulatory compliance and data security.

Employers are also rethinking workforce structures as automation changes how tasks are performed. Routine administrative roles are increasingly being replaced or augmented by software platforms, while new positions are emerging in system oversight, process design and user experience management. Analysts say this transition is not eliminating jobs at scale but reshaping them, with a premium placed on adaptability and continuous learning.

Education and training institutions are responding by expanding programmes focused on digital skills, coding, data science and cyber resilience. Partnerships between universities, vocational institutes and multinational firms are becoming more common, aimed at aligning curricula with labour market needs. Corporate upskilling initiatives are also gaining traction as employers seek to retrain existing staff rather than rely solely on external hiring.

Wage dynamics are expected to reflect these shifts. Salaries in high-demand technology and specialist roles have been rising faster than the broader market, while competition for experienced professionals has intensified. Human resources consultants note that non-salary benefits, including flexible working arrangements, career progression pathways and residency incentives, are increasingly important in attracting and retaining talent.

The ServiceNow report places the UAE’s projected job growth ahead of many mature economies, where ageing populations and slower productivity gains are constraining employment expansion. By contrast, the UAE’s relatively young workforce, openness to foreign talent and willingness to adopt new technologies are seen as structural advantages.

Challenges remain, particularly around ensuring that job creation keeps pace with population growth and that skills mismatches do not widen. Economists warn that without sustained investment in education and training, shortages could emerge in critical areas, potentially pushing up labour costs and slowing project delivery. There is also a need to integrate more nationals into private-sector roles, a long-standing policy objective supported by wage subsidies, training schemes and regulatory measures.