Abu Dhabi is preparing to introduce electric seaglider services across the emirate by 2028, positioning the technology as a new pillar in its transport and tourism strategy after a multi-agency agreement signed on Friday set the framework for development, regulation and investment. The accord brings together the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, the Integrated Transport Centre operating as Abu […]
Millennium Hotels and Resorts is sharpening its expansion strategy by placing the Middle East, North Africa and Turkey at the centre of its global growth plans, using the region’s aviation reach, investment climate and tourism depth to connect Asia with a wider set of international markets. Executives at the Singapore-based hospitality group say the MENAT region has moved beyond being a strong operating base to become a […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Saudi Arabia has emerged as the largest gaming market in the Middle East, accounting for about $1 billion of the region’s $2.52 billion consumer spending on video games, according to industry estimates compiled from market trackers and regional regulators. The scale of spending, combined with the highest average revenue per user in the region, underscores a structural shift in digital consumption driven by […]
As part of the COBNB+ rollout, all PLUS-managed residences at Skylon will feature a full upgrade to L’Occitane en Provence hotel amenities, setting a new standard for guest comfort. The partnership reflects COBNB’s strategic move into experience-led hospitality, where design, service, and brand collaboration come together to enhance guest satisfaction and long-term asset value.
COBNB+ represents the highest tier within COBNB’s managed portfolio, designed for guests who value refined living, consistency, and effortless stays. The programme combines curated interiors, elevated operational standards, and technology-enabled hospitality, offering a boutique-hotel experience within a service apartment setting.
L’Occitane en Provence was selected as COBNB+’s premium amenities partner for its strong association with leading hotels and resorts worldwide, its commitment to responsibly sourced ingredients, and its timeless French heritage. The brand’s emphasis on sensorial comfort and craftsmanship aligns naturally with COBNB’s vision of modern, experience-led hospitality.
Skylon’s designation as the first COBNB+ property establishes a new benchmark for managed residences in Malaysia. The collaboration reflects a shared vision between GBD Land and COBNB to operate residential assets at hospitality-grade standards, enhance guest satisfaction and loyalty, and strengthen long-term asset performance.
“At L’Occitane en Provence, we believe everyday rituals can become precious moments. Our partnership with COBNB+ at Skylon reflects a shared vision to elevate the guest experience through sensorial comfort, thoughtful details, and the art of Provençal living — even within a modern service apartment setting,” said Elida Wong, General Manager, Southeast Asia, L’Occitane en Provence.
The launch of COBNB+ at Skylon marks the beginning of a broader premium rollout across selected developments. As COBNB continues to expand its hospitality platform, COBNB+ will serve as its flagship standard for luxury short-stay and serviced living.
At COBNB, luxury is intentional — and it begins with attention to every detail.
Hashtag: #cobnb #cobnb+ #loccitane #skylonresidences
https://www.cobnb.com.my/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/cobnb-sdn-bhd/
https://www.facebook.com/share/1DHQm5k9CA/
https://www.instagram.com/cobnbmsia?igsh=azlnYWhwMXRxdnk0
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
GBD Land is a forward-looking property developer focused on creating thoughtfully designed residential developments that combine lifestyle, quality, and long-term value.
Founded in the South of France, L’Occitane en Provence is a globally recognised brand known for its natural ingredients, Provençal heritage, and long-standing presence as a preferred amenities partner for premium hotels and resorts worldwide.
COBNB is Malaysia’s leading short-term rental and hospitality management platform, operating at the intersection of technology, design, and service excellence to maximise guest experience and long-term asset performance.
For more information, visit: https://www.cobnb.com.my/cobnb-plus
Skylon Residences:https://skylon.com.my/
The event, supported by the Mission of the People’s Republic of China to ASEAN, the Permanent Mission of Malaysia to ASEAN, and the ASEAN Secretariat, was hosted by the Information Office of the People’s Government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, and the Department of Culture and Tourism of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, and jointly organized by Guangxi Daily (Guangxi International Communication Center), Guangxi Radio and Television, Guangxi Tourism Development Group, and Guangxi Cultural Industry Group. More than 250 guests attended the event, including envoys from the 11 ASEAN countries and external partners such as Russia, the United Kingdom, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil, senior officials from the ASEAN Secretariat, representatives from mainstream ASEAN media, local university faculty and students, and representatives from Chinese-funded enterprises.
I. A Gathering of Distinguished Guests, Sharing a Common Vision
This marks the first time that Chinese Spring Festival cultural activities have been held at the ASEAN Headquarters. With the deepening of globalization, the traditional festival of Spring Festival is not only a time for family reunions for the Chinese people, but also a new bond for dialogue between different civilizations. The Chinese Spring Festival embodies the philosophy of “harmony and coexistence”, which aligns perfectly with the ASEAN countries’ pursuit of “unity and cooperation”. Furthermore, the sustainable development concept of “rejuvenating the old and welcoming the new” resonates strongly with the ASEAN region’s vision of “common prosperity”.
Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, stated in his video address that over time, the Spring Festival has evolved into a global celebration. Its inscription on the UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2024 underscores the rich significance of this precious human heritage. Within ASEAN, many member states celebrate the Spring Festival, reminding people of the deep emotional bonds that transcend national borders. ASEAN will continue its commitment to fostering a community proud of its identity, actively undertaking the responsibility of protecting, preserving, and creating culture, arts, and traditions, and promoting the development of the cultural and creative industries. As we welcome the Year of the Horse, we hope everyone will embrace the elegance, vitality, and forward momentum that the horse represents, and embark on the new year together with hope, resilience, and unity.
Wang Qing, Chinese Ambassador to ASEAN, stated in his address that the Spring Festival symbolizes reunion, joy, and harmony. Celebrating the holiday together exemplifies the close bonds between the people of China and ASEAN, the integration of our civilizations, and our harmonious coexistence. The China-ASEAN community with a shared future is growing ever closer, demonstrating powerful vitality and setting an exemplary model for building a community with a shared future for mankind. He specifically noted that Guangxi serves as a vital “connection point” and “intersection point” for China-ASEAN friendship, exchanges, and cooperation, functioning as both a “gateway and engine” within the China-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. In the new year, he extended heartfelt wishes for China-ASEAN friendship and cooperation to surge forward like galloping horses, unstoppable in its momentum.
Ambassador Sarah, Permanent Representative of Malaysia to ASEAN, noted in the address that as the Country Coordinator for China-ASEAN Relations, Malaysia has been privileged to witness and foster the flourishing development of the China-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Cultural celebrations like today’s Spring Festival event vividly demonstrate that our partnership extends far beyond trade agreements and diplomatic protocols. ASEAN and China share a deep, mature, and resilient relationship that will continue to grow and strengthen on the solid foundation of mutual respect, shared interests, and a common vision for peace, stability and prosperity in the region.
Li Pan, Director of the Information Office of the People’s Government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, stated in his address that Guangxi is honored to host this event at the ASEAN Headquarters. As the permanent host city of the China-ASEAN Expo, Guangxi serves as an important platform for China-ASEAN economic and trade cooperation and cultural exchanges. Guangxi is working with ASEAN countries to build an artificial intelligence development path of “R&D in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou + Integration in Guangxi + Application in ASEAN”, and actively creating a new trade chain of “Production in ASEAN + Distribution in Guangxi + Sales in China”. In 2026, Guangxi will work hand in hand with all sectors of ASEAN to forge ahead and strengthen the neighborly bond between China and ASEAN over time.
II. Celebrating the Spring Festival and Savoring the Festive Flavors
The event invited guests from around the world to gather together, celebrating the Spring Festival for the Year of the Horse, savoring the flavors of the Chinese Spring Festival, and appreciating the beauty of the arts. The opening performance, “The Beauty of China: Guangxi’s Zhuang Ethnic Charm”, featured a symbolic dance and connected it with a classic excerpt from the Caidiao Opera “Liu Sanjie”, including the “Antiphonal Song”, creating an artistic masterpiece that blends Eastern poetry with innovative ingenuity. The Chinese instrumental performance, “Chinese Chic Performance for Celebrating the Spring Festival of the Year of the Horse”, featured erhu and suona as the main instruments, playing classic melodies such as the theme song from “Journey to the West” and “Black Myth: Wukong”, converging into a “National Trend IP Music Festival”. When Guangxi ethnic instruments, the maguhu (horse-bone fiddle) and the bolie, met Indonesian gamelan, Chinese and Indonesian musicians jointly performed classics like “Jasmine Flower” and “Folk Songs Like Spring River Water”making the phrase “high mountains and flowing water meet a kindred spirit” more concrete and creating a lasting artistic resonance.
During the event, Guangxi Daily (Guangxi International Communication Center), Guangxi Radio and Television, together with ASEAN media such as TVRI, El John TV, and Harian Inhua, jointly launched the China-ASEAN Spring Festival Short Video Exhibition Week. Using short videos as a link, the event showcased the joyous scenes of China and ASEAN countries celebrating the Spring Festival together from multiple dimensions, inviting netizens around the world to jointly celebrate the Chinese Spring Festival as a global festival through the Internet.
III. Savoring the Cultural Gathering, Welcoming the Prosperous Spring Festival
On the same day, the “Spring Blessings for Success at the Year of the Horse” Chinese Spring Festival Cultural Exhibition and the “Instant Joy Market” Spring Festival Cultural Market were held simultaneously at the ASEAN Headquarters. Guests from various countries experienced the hospitality of “Tea Harmonies the World” through immersive experiences that included playing, appreciating, and tasting, creating “Ancient Charm and Blessings” calligraphy and painting rubbings, admiring the exquisite paper-cutting art, and enjoying a feast of Spring Festival delicacies from all directions.
The most surprising experience for the guests was exploring the smart future using Guangxi’s cutting-edge AI technology. Guests from various countries experienced intelligent translation devices and wore AR glasses, immersing themselves in barrier-free communication and exploring the thousand-year-old legend of the Zuojiang Huashan Rock Art Cultural Landscape. Hardy Chung, a reporter from Harian Inhua, remarked that China’s AI technology not only accurately depicted the beautiful scenery of the Spring Festival but also vividly expressed the touching story of ASEAN and China being connected by mountains and seas and sharing good neighborly friendship, presenting a beautiful picture of cooperation towards the future.
On February 4th, two “Instant Blessings” Pop-Up Events were held at the Halim Station of the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway and the Mall Central Park in Jakarta, Indonesia, creating a festive atmosphere for the Chinese Spring Festival. Performers from Guangxi presented a variety of acts including song, dance, opera, and puppetry, attracting many locals to participate in interactive activities, join in the “Guangxi Kemusan Dance”, and share the joy of the Spring Festival. Yi Yan, a social media blogger traveling and living in Indonesia, exclaimed, “This year’s Spring Festival atmosphere in Jakarta is different!”
This event attracted more than 20 media outlets, including People’s Daily, Xinhua News Agency, China Media Group, China News Service, TVRI, METRO TV, bolong.id, and Vietnam News Agency to report on the event and widely spread the concepts of peace, amity, and harmony in the Spring Festival to people at home and abroad.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2026 – This Chinese New Year, Pacific Place and Starstreet Precinct invite you to take a joyful gallop into the Year of the Horse with ‘Whimsical Gallop’ — a celebration that blends artistry, imagination and auspicious cheer. From 5 February to 3 March 2026, the mall is transformed into a contemporary Chinese garden awash in soft, nature-inspired pink hues. Leading the way is a striking 3.5-metre-tall embroidered horse in Park Court, alongside three other beautifully adorned horses brought to life by Hong Kong embroidery atelier YLYstudio. Together, this quartet of horses brings luck and fortune to all.
Beyond the installations, the festivities continue with thoughtful and playful experiences. Create your own personalised blessings at the ‘Splendid Blessings’ AI Fai Chun Photo Booth, and enjoy ‘Galloping Joy’ New Year Shopping Rewards with festive ‘Blooming Splendour’ Lai See packets and exclusive shopping treats. The celebration culminates with lively jazz tap dance performances and a lion dance parade, bringing heritage and modern festivity together for everyone to enjoy.
A Garden Where Embroidery Meets Imagination
Across the mall and into Starstreet Precinct, visitors are immersed in a fantastical Chinese landscape of embroidered ornaments, blooming florals, lanterns and gazebos. YLYstudio dedicated over 1,000 hours to handcrafting more than 590 ornaments featuring eight auspicious motifs — feathers, birds, pomegranates, coins, flowers, four-leaf clovers, ladybirds, and clouds — using over 80 types of sequins, threads, and ribbons. These motifs are showcased on the four horses, spreading good fortune while enriching the festive landscape with depth and artistry.
| Spring Bloom Gallop Pavilion
Location: Garden Court, Level LG1, Pacific Place |
Three embroidered horses stand in quiet splendour — each a symbol of good luck, harmony and prosperity. Rising above them, a five‑metre‑tall gazebo becomes a sanctuary of artistry, where the eight auspicious motifs conceived by YLYstudio are revealed in delicate detail. Each work conveys multicultural blessings, all rendered with exquisite craftsmanship. |
| Blossoms of Imagination
Location: Level L1 (near lululemon), Pacific Place |
Amid peach blossoms, a pastel pavilion shelters two young horses at rest. The scene evokes New Year anticipation, filled with hope and the promise of spring.
‘Splendid Blessings‘ AI Fai Chun Photo Booth By registering as an above member and spending HK$300 on the same day via electronic payment, shoppers can select an auspicious message, capture full-body photos, and receive both printed and animated digital versions to take home and share with loved ones. Date: 5 February – 3 March 2026 |
| Magical Blessings
Location: Level L1 (near Lane Crawford), Pacific Place |
Energetic mini horses line both sides of the pathway, accompanied by floral arrangements and whimsical plants that create a festive corridor of movement and charm. An abundance of mini horses extends the blessings along the way, embodying prosperity and joy in every step. |
| Poised in Bloom
Location: Park Court, Level L1, Pacific Place |
At the heart of Park Court, a 3.5‑metre‑tall
giant horse is poised in mid‑gallop — a graceful emblem of blossoming fortune. Flanked by peach blossoms, it moves forward to usher in a more prosperous year ahead. |
| Lanterns of Serenity
Location: Outside Three Pacific Place on Wing Fung Street and Star Street |
Lanterns sway and blossoms bloom in this outdoor extension of the celebration. Set against the urban backdrop of Starstreet Precinct, the installation carries the festive spirit beyond the mall — inviting passersby to pause, smile and soak in the new year fantasy. |
‘Blooming Splendour‘ Lai See Packets – Celebrate the Year of the Horse with Flourishing Flowers
The ‘Blooming Splendour’ Lai See packets are inspired by the elegance of embroidery. They feature delicate floral motifs rendered with painterly precision, blending layers of red, pink, and orange threads to create a sense of graceful movement. At the heart of the design, a sculpted floral emblem evokes abundance, beauty, and new beginnings, enriched with pearl-like accents recalling couture embroidery techniques, where beads, sequins and threads are meticulously layered.
Each set includes 10 Lai See packets in two harmonious colourways, accompanied by a velvet pouch in either soft pink, adorned with a pomegranate charm, or rich green, accented with a lucky four-leaf clover charm. These detachable embroidered charms are thoughtfully designed to be worn or styled long after the festive season, carrying the spirit of prosperity and good fortune throughout the year.
‘Galloping Joy‘ – Elevate Your Experience with Exclusive Shopping Rewards
From 5 to 16 February 2026, shoppers can enjoy festive privileges designed to usher in a prosperous year, including exclusive ‘Blooming Splendour’ Lai See packets, movie ticket exchange coupons, Pacific Place shopping e-vouchers and gourmet treats.
| Accumulated Same-day Electronic Spending |
Shopping Rewards* | |
| HK$3,800 – HK$8,799 |
One Set of |
— |
| HK$8,800 – HK$17,999 | HK$300 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher |
|
| HK$18,000 – HK$37,999 | HK$600 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher + The Grand Sicilian Pistachio Puff (valued at HK$128) |
|
| HK$38,000 – HK$87,999 | HK$1,400 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher + The Grand Sicilian Pistachio Puff (valued at HK$128) |
|
| HK$88,000
or above |
HK$2,400 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher + COVA Nutty Duo Cookie Gift Box (valued at HK$198) |
|
*Shoppers are required to join the Pacific Place Loyalty Programme – above and meet the accumulated same-day spending requirement by electronic payment during the Promotion Period in order to be entitled to redeem Shopping Rewards. The Rewards are limited in quantity and are available on a first-come, first-served basis while stocks last. Other Terms and Conditions apply.
Redemption Period: 5 – 16 February 2026
Redemption Location: Gift Redemption Counter, Level L1 (near Theory)
Redemption Hours: 11am – 10pm
Where Hooves Move to the Rhythm
The Year of the Horse arrives in a dance of joy. Step Out Studio and fellow tap dancers will be tapping out the heartbeat of the season, their rhythms galloping alongside the soaring notes of Jazz Band led by Nate Wong. Together, they will conjure a celebration where artistry and vitality run free. After the lions are awakened in an eye‑dotting ritual, our lion dance parade will unfurl like a living tapestry of tradition — spreading fortune, unity and exuberance throughout the mall, and inviting everyone to stride boldly into the year ahead.
| Tap and Jazz into the New Season | Let your feet and heart gallop with joy as Step Out Studio and fellow tap dancers bring tap to life, echoing the energy of racing hooves. Accompanied by keyboard, bass, and saxophone from Nate Wong’s Jazz Band, the performance blends percussive footwork with swinging jazz, creating a lively celebration of the Year of the Horse.
Dates:
Time: 3:30pm Location: Level L1 (near Shiro), Pacific Place |
| Roaring into Prosperity: Eye-dotting Ceremony & Lion Dance Parade | Stride into the excitement of the Chinese New Year at Pacific Place! After bringing the lions to life in a traditional eye-dotting ceremony, the lion dance parade will wind its way through the mall, spreading energy, luck, and prosperity for the year ahead.
Date: 23 February 2026 (Monday, 7th day of Chinese New Year) Time: 1pm Location: Park Court, Level L1, Pacific Place |
Join the ‘Whimsical Gallop’at Pacific Place and Starstreet Precinct this Chinese New Year — where embroidered artistry, festive celebrations, and joyful rewards come together to welcome a year filled with good fortune and blooming possibilities.
Hashtag: #WhimsicalGallop #HorseInBloom #GallopingJoyAtPP
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
YLYstudio is a Hong Kong-based embroidery atelier celebrated for blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. Founded by Lilian Tsang Lai Yu and Matt Hui Yip Long, the studio brings decades of global fashion experience and artistry to every creation.
Lilian Tsang previously served as chief designer for a Hong Kong fashion label and honed her craft at LECOLE LESAGE, the prestigious haute couture embroidery school owned by the Chanel Group in Paris. She also interned at Elisabeth Gasbarre Rousseau Haute Couture Studio in Lyon, France. With a deep passion for teaching, Lilian now shares her embroidery expertise in Hong Kong, inspiring a new generation of artisans.
Matt Hui is a Hong Kong-based fashion designer graduated from the Royal College of Art in 2013. Passionate about the creative process and fine workmanship, he has collaborated on stage costumes for renowned singers including Panther Chan and Bondy Chiu. Since 2024, Matt has also ventured into the film industry as a custom tailor, contributing to international productions such as Ballad of a Small Player and Emmanuelle.
Located in the heart of Admiralty, Pacific Place is the destination for exceptional service and unique experiences. As a pioneer of innovative retail concepts in Hong Kong, Pacific Place continues to transform the retail scene by delighting visitors with an array of curated experiences through diversified offerings. Since its inception in 1988, Pacific Place has established itself as Hong Kong’s premier lifestyle hub, a mixed-use development that continues to evolve and grow as the ultimate destination to shop, dine, work, stay, relax and play. It houses one of Hong Kong’s largest collections of luxury brands and diverse dining offerings, making every visit a memorable one. In addition to being a prime transportation hub, Pacific Place is home to five Grade-A office towers, 268 serviced apartments, and four five-star hotels: The Conrad, Island Shangri-La, JW Marriott and Upper House Hong Kong.
| Customer enquiry hotline: (852) 2844 8988 | Website: www.pacificplace.com.hk |
| Facebook: @Pacific Place Hong Kong | Instagram: @pacificplacehk |
| WeChat: @PacificPlaceHK | XiaoHongShu: @Pacific Place HK |
Starstreet Precinct is a vibrant destination in Wan Chai, comprised mainly of Wing Fung Street, Star Street, Moon Street, Sun Street, and St. Francis Yard. Over the years, the neighbourhood has evolved from a quaint, historic landmark, into an eclectic hangout hotspot for those with a unique sense of style and character. Filled with cosy cafés, restaurants, bars, boutique shops with the most coveted fashion selections, galleries and interior design stores, the precinct offers an array of day-to-night experiences. With a focus on community and a passion to foster a sustainable lifestyle for all, Starstreet Precinct and its tenants are collectively working to build a better future together. Connected to Pacific Place and Admiralty station through the Three Pacific Place underground link, the neighbourhood is a hidden gem in the heart of Hong Kong.
| Website: www.starstreet.com.hk | Instagram: @starstreethk |
| Facebook: Starstreet Precinct | #starstreethk |
Saudi Arabia’s flagship development drive remains anchored to an ambition that exceeds $1 trillion in combined value, even as authorities adjust timelines, scope and sequencing across some of the Kingdom’s most high-profile projects. A new assessment by Fitch Ratings said the combined value of five major giga projects — NEOM, Qiddiya, Red Sea Global, ROSHN and Diriyah — is still expected to surpass that threshold at completion, […]
A $3tn pipeline of real estate and infrastructure projects across the Middle East and Africa between 2026 and 2030 is sharpening investor focus on the region’s capacity to sustain high growth into 2026, with the UAE expected to account for a substantial share of capital deployment, according to new industry assessments. Market projections point to project cash flows of about $795bn in the UAE over the same […]
Dubai-based property developer Binghatti has priced a $500 million five-year sukuk after attracting demand that significantly exceeded the issue size, underscoring sustained investor appetite for higher-yield Gulf credit despite tighter global financial conditions. The Islamic bond was priced on Thursday with a profit rate of 8.375 per cent, equivalent to a spread of 461.3 basis points over US Treasuries, according to transaction details. Orderbooks climbed beyond $2.2 […]
Dubai authorities have announced a series of temporary road closures to facilitate the UAE Tour Women cycling race, with restrictions scheduled on Friday afternoon across key corridors of the city. The Roads and Transport Authority said the measures are designed to ensure the safe passage of riders while minimising disruption to motorists, public transport users and businesses. According to the RTA, the race will run between 12.50pm […]
Building on the strong momentum of its inaugural year, the upcoming edition promises an even more refined and harmonious dialogue of visual and gastronomic arts. The culinary journey at DBS ARTable 2026 will ascend to new heights with an extraordinary 4-hand dining experience curated by two acclaimed chefs from “Culinary Class Wars Season 2” – Jun Lee, Executive Chef of Seoul’s two-Michelin-starred restaurant Soigné and Yun Na-ra, Owner & Chef of Yunjudang Brewmaster.
DBS ARTable, presented by Tatler, is a flagship initiative under the bank’s “DBS Culinary Delights”, catering to the aspirational preferences of its wealth clients. DBS remains dedicated to offering unparalleled experiences that blend sophisticated advisory with personal touches.
Hashtag: #DBS
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
DBS is a leading financial services group in Asia with a presence in 19 markets. Headquartered and listed in Singapore, DBS is in the three key Asian axes of growth: Greater China, Southeast Asia and South Asia. The bank’s “AA-” and “Aa1” credit ratings are among the highest in the world.
Recognised for its global leadership, DBS has been named “World’s Best Bank” by Global Finance, “World’s Best Bank” by Euromoney and “Global Bank of the Year” by The Banker. The bank is at the forefront of leveraging digital technology to shape the future of banking, having been named “World’s Best Digital Bank” by Euromoney and the world’s “Most Innovative in Digital Banking” by The Banker. In addition, DBS has been accorded the “Safest Bank in Asia” award by Global Finance for 17 consecutive years from 2009 to 2025.
DBS provides a full range of services in consumer, SME and corporate banking. As a bank born and bred in Asia, DBS understands the intricacies of doing business in the region’s most dynamic markets.
DBS is committed to building lasting relationships with customers, as it banks the Asian way. Through the DBS Foundation, the bank creates impact beyond banking by uplifting lives and livelihoods of those in need. It provides essential needs to the underprivileged, and fosters inclusion by equipping the underserved with financial and digital literacy skills. It also nurtures innovative social enterprises that create positive impact.
With its extensive network of operations in Asia and emphasis on engaging and empowering its staff, DBS presents exciting career opportunities. For more information, please visit www.dbs.com.
Y Combinator continues to generate outsized returns from companies with roots in India even as its broader influence across Asia shows signs of long-term retreat, reflecting a strategic shift by the world’s best-known startup accelerator amid changing regional dynamics. While founders from Bengaluru, Chennai and Delhi remain visible in its demo days and alumni rosters, the programme no longer shapes Asia’s startup narrative in the way it once did.
Founded in 2005 in Silicon Valley, Y Combinator built its reputation by backing early-stage companies that later became global giants, including Airbnb, Stripe and Dropbox. Its appeal in Asia peaked during the previous decade, when limited access to global capital and mentorship made association with a US-based accelerator especially valuable. India emerged as one of the biggest beneficiaries, with dozens of YC-backed startups securing follow-on funding, overseas market access and high-profile exits.
Companies such as Razorpay, Meesho and Groww, all of which passed through the YC ecosystem in earlier years, became reference points for founders seeking validation from global investors. India’s expanding pool of engineers, rising digital adoption and a large domestic market aligned well with YC’s software-first investment philosophy. These successes continue to deliver financial returns for the accelerator through equity stakes that have appreciated sharply as several firms reached unicorn valuations or prepared for public listings.
Yet the accelerator’s footprint across Asia has narrowed. YC formally closed its China-focused efforts earlier in the decade, citing regulatory complexity and difficulties operating within a tightening policy environment. Activity in Southeast Asia also slowed, with fewer batches featuring startups from Indonesia, Vietnam or Thailand compared with earlier years. The shift reflects not only YC’s internal priorities but also the maturation of Asia’s startup ecosystems, which now offer more local alternatives.
Across Asia, domestic accelerators, corporate venture arms and sovereign-backed funds have stepped in to fill gaps once dominated by Silicon Valley programmes. In India, initiatives backed by large conglomerates, universities and state governments provide capital, mentorship and market access without requiring relocation or deep integration into the US ecosystem. Southeast Asia has followed a similar path, with regional venture firms increasingly willing to lead early rounds.
YC itself has changed. The accelerator has leaned further into its core strengths, focusing on fewer geographies while doubling down on artificial intelligence, developer tools and enterprise software. Its decision to emphasise remote participation during and after the pandemic reduced the symbolic value of spending months in Silicon Valley, a factor that once set YC apart for Asian founders. While remote access broadened participation, it also diluted the sense of exclusivity that helped the programme stand out.
For Indian startups, the relationship with YC has become more transactional. Participation is still seen as a strong signal of quality, especially for companies targeting global markets or US-based customers. However, founders increasingly view YC as one of several possible launchpads rather than a defining milestone. Follow-on funding now depends less on accelerator pedigree and more on unit economics, regulatory clarity and the ability to scale within complex local markets.
Investors tracking Asia’s venture landscape note that YC’s reduced presence does not imply a loss of relevance everywhere. India remains an exception because of its scale, talent depth and ongoing pipeline of software-led startups with global ambitions. YC partners continue to engage with Indian founders, and each batch includes a steady, if smaller, number of companies from the country. Returns from earlier bets ensure that India remains financially meaningful to the accelerator.
At the same time, YC no longer sets the pace for Asia-wide innovation trends. Local accelerators and venture funds are shaping sectors such as fintech, climate technology and logistics, areas where regulatory nuance and on-the-ground execution matter as much as global networks. Governments across the region have also become more involved in startup promotion, offering grants, sandboxes and procurement opportunities that reduce reliance on foreign programmes.
Bitcoin’s latest bout of weakness against gold has sharpened debate across global markets, yet market participants argue the comparison misses a deeper structural shift under way in digital assets. Rather than signalling a loss of confidence in bitcoin as a store of value, the price action is being framed by traders as a consequence of tightening liquidity conditions that affect crypto markets in ways bullion markets have […]
JPMorgan has argued that bitcoin’s declining volatility relative to gold is reshaping long-term investment calculations, even as near-term pressures from exchange-traded fund outflows and futures market liquidations weigh on crypto prices. The bank’s analysts said the contrast between short-term stress and longer-horizon metrics highlights a shift under way in how institutional investors assess risk in digital assets. Bitcoin has traded within a tighter range over the past […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Bitcoin fell sharply on Friday, sliding to a 16-month low and briefly testing the psychologically important $60,000 level as a broad sell-off in technology shares spilled into risk-sensitive assets, intensifying volatility across global markets. The world’s largest cryptocurrency touched an intraday low close to $60,000 before rebounding, trading modestly higher later in the session at around $64,000 as buyers stepped in. The […]
Bitcoin could move towards the $50,000 mark even as confidence in the crypto market remains fragile, according to comments by Tom Lee, who has described price action across digital assets as a major disappointment against a backdrop of conditions that have historically favoured rallies. Trading has been subdued across large cryptocurrencies, with bitcoin struggling to convert long-standing bullish narratives into sustained momentum. Lee, a prominent market strategist […]
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai National Bank of Kuwait used the Kuwait Oil & Gas Show and Conference 2026 to underline its role as a leading financier to the energy value chain, engaging with policymakers, producers, service companies and investors as Kuwait accelerates long-term plans to modernise hydrocarbons infrastructure while managing the transition to lower-carbon operations. Held over three days in Kuwait City, the biennial industry gathering drew […]
The ceremony centered on TCM culture and leveraged the immersive cultural, technological, and experiential environment of the Phoenix Center. It connected traditional medical wisdom with contemporary global health issues, demonstrating the pathways of inheritance and innovation for TCM in diverse cultural contexts around the world.
In his speech, Xu Wei, Chairman and CEO of Phoenix Satellite TV, stated that the global spread of TCM is not just about medical communication but also a process of cross-cultural understanding and exchange. He emphasized the need to build communication bridges through modern dissemination methods while respecting differences. Phoenix Satellite TV will continue to focus on and document the international dissemination of TCM.
Cheng Jie, Chairman of Dong-E-E-Jiao, remarked that TCM culture belongs to all humanity and that the company will keep promoting the synergy between cultural dissemination and industrial development, facilitating a deep integration of technology, culture, and brand narrative to contribute to global health.
The event featured a “Tribute” segment honoring five representatives dedicated to the international spread and cross-disciplinary integration of TCM, covering fields such as academic translation, medical practice, technology integration, and public welfare dissemination.
Scholar Ehsan Doostmohammadi from Iran was honored for completing the first Persian translation of the “Huangdi Neijing: Suwen” and promoting TCM in the West Asia region. Zhao Zhongzhen, Emeritus Professor at Hong Kong Baptist University’s School of Chinese Medicine, presented the honor and advocated for further collaboration.
Malaysian TCM practitioner Neoh Karen was recognized for promoting the modernization and internationalization of TCM through innovative communication methods.
Lee Tsung-En Andy, CEO of the Yangqi Integrative Medicine Center in Silicon Valley, was honored for his exploratory practices integrating TCM concepts with artificial intelligence and big data, sparking discussions about the modernization of TCM.
Italian physician Valeria Toso, a proponent of TCM meridian theory, was acknowledged for her long-term efforts to promote TCM concepts in Europe.
Dr. Diarra Boubacar Thiemoko from Mali, the first foreign postdoctoral fellow in TCM in China, received high praise for his years of grassroots medical exchanges in Central Africa and his work in developing TCM training and public welfare diagnosis programs on the continent.
During the event, Phoenix Satellite TV officially launched the second season of “The Healing Path.” The new season will document TCM’s development and application across different countries and cultural contexts, showcasing its diverse expressions in a global setting.
Throughout the ceremony, the Phoenix Center also established a global TCM cultural interactive experience area, enhancing the public’s intuitive understanding of TCM culture through cultural displays, product exhibitions, and interactive experiences. A special livestream program titled “Let’s Talk! Friends of TCM” preceded the event, generating public discussion.
As the event concluded, the theme song “The Healing Path,” created with AI participation, resonated in the venue, marking the end of the ceremony.
The organizers stated that this ceremony was not only a concentrated display of TCM culture but also a forward-looking exchange practice, showcasing new expressions and possibilities for traditional medicine in the contemporary technological and global health context.
Hashtag: #TheWorldTCMHeritageOdyssey #TraditionalChineseMedicine #GlobalHealth #TCMCulture #TCMInnovation
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Substack has confirmed that a security breach exposed limited user contact information, including email addresses and phone numbers, prompting renewed scrutiny of data protection practices across creator-focused platforms. The company said the incident did not involve passwords, payment details or private content, and that access was cut off after the activity was identified. According to a statement issued by Substack, an unauthorised third party gained access to […]
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BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 February 2026 – ICONSIAM, the global landmark on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, announces a major collaboration with leading public and private partners—including the Ministry of Culture (Thailand), the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), KASIKORNBANK, CP AXTRA “Makro – Lotus”, Alipay +, and Tiger Balm—to host a world-class Chinese New Year celebration. Reinforcing its Destination Marketing strategy, ICONSIAM aims to position itself as one of the world’s premier Chinese New Year destinations through festivities that blend Thailand’s cultural heritage with revered Chinese traditions. A key highlight is ICONSIAM’s spiritually significant location, known as the “Dragon’s Belly,” a powerful symbol of prosperity along the most beautiful curve of the Chao Phraya River. To honor the Year of the Horse, a sacred statue of Guan Yu—the deity of honesty, loyalty, and righteousness, will be enshrined. The celebration will feature world-class entertainment led by renowned Chinese actor Wang Zhuo Cheng and T-Pop Sensation BUS, alongside dragon and lion dances, festive street food, shopping, and cultural experiences. ICONSIAM is confident that foot traffic and spending within the destination will grow by more than 10%, helping to stimulate overall economic activity and tourism in the first quarter. The event will take place from 12–17 February 2026 at River Park, ICONSIAM.
Mrs. Suma Wongphan, Executive Vice President of ICONSIAM Co., Ltd. said “This event reaffirms ICONSIAM’s role as a Global Experiential Destination that captivates visitors worldwide. Our ambition is not only to elevate Thailand’s tourism experience, but also to celebrate the deep-rooted ties between Thailand and China. We have curated a landmark festival that seamlessly blends traditional beliefs with contemporary artistry, creating a special experience to attract global audiences to witness the most magnificent Chinese New Year celebration along the Chao Phraya River. Alongside the cultural aspects, ICONSIAM enhances the festive experience through its ‘Lucky Angpao Mega Campaign’, offering over 8,300 prizes, with expectations of driving more than 10% growth in visitor traffic and 10% increase in consumer spending during the campaign period.”
The 2026 Chinese New Year season is expected to generate significant economic impact across Thailand’s tourism sector, aligning closely with the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s strategy in setting the target of attracting 6.7 million Chinese visitors under ongoing visa-free measures. ICONSIAM is confident that the scale and creativity of this celebration will serve as a powerful catalyst in advancing Thailand’s tourism and retail sectors to global prominence.
The ICONSIAM A Prosperous Chinese New Year 2026 key highlights include:
More than a celebration, ICONSIAM A PROSPEROUS CHINESE NEW YEAR 2026 is a cultural phenomenon that positions Bangkok as one of the world’s most compelling festive destinations. Be part of this extraordinary celebration from February 12–17, 2026, at River Park, ICONSIAM. Discover upcoming events and the latest updates via ICONSIAM’s Facebook at www.facebook.com/ICONSIAM or call 1338 for more information.
Hashtag: #ICONSIAMCNY2026 #ICONSIAMaProsperousChineseNewYear2026 #ICONSIAM
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To expand AI application scenarios and enhance enterprises’ competitiveness, the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) is hosting the inaugural “AI with HKPC” Smart Solutions Showcase Series, which officially opens today. Professor SUN Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, HKSAR Government, and the Hon Sunny TAN, Chairman, Hong Kong Productivity Council, officiated at the opening ceremony, underscoring the Government’s and the industry’s shared determination to drive the broader adoption of AI applications. Registration for the event has been enthusiastic, with over 3,000 representatives from the Government, industry, academia and research communities expected to attend, reflecting the “AI for all” trend and strong market demand for digital solutions.
The three-day event focuses on three major themes, including empowering SMEs, digitalised education, and smart property, showcasing nearly 100 ready-to-deploy AI solutions covering diverse scenarios such as operations management, customer interaction, school administration and teaching, and building maintenance. It marks AI’s shift from concept demonstrations to real-world deployment, injecting practical momentum into Hong Kong’s new industrialisation and smart city development.
Professor SUN Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, HKSAR Government, said: “AI is transforming the world at an unprecedented pace. Hong Kong, with its unique strengths in research foundation, international talent pool and open market environment, provides the ideal soil for advancing the industrialisation of AI. The HKSAR Government has been promoting the development of AI in a comprehensive manner across research, computing power, data, talent and funding. HKPC also actively assists enterprises in mastering AI technologies and enhancing AI governance, not only laying a solid foundation for application by businesses, but also nurturing digitally skilled talent with a vision for the future and driving the continuous upgrading of industries. HKPC has long supported and worked closely with the HKSAR Government in advancing innovation and technology development. Let us continue to work hand in hand and seize opportunities, and jointly propel Hong Kong to become a leading pioneer of smart transformation in Asia”.
The Hon Sunny TAN, Chairman of Hong Kong Productivity Council, said: “HKPC actively responds to the national ’15th Five-Year Plan’ recommendation and fully supports the HKSAR Government’s direction of promoting the deep integration and application innovation of AI across various industries. This showcase aims to build a transformation bridge from ‘seeing’ to ‘doing’, not only demonstrating the broad potential of AI technologies, but also providing actionable and scalable pathways to help enterprises extend pilot projects into full-scale deployment, thereby realising AI-driven industry transformation.” He further noted, “As AI adoption accelerates, robust cyber security protection is the foundation for responsible AI use. According to the latest report from the Hong Kong Computer Emergency Response Team Coordination Centre, local cyber security incidents in 2025 rose by 27% year-on-year, reaching a record high. HKPC will continue supporting enterprises in building a secure and trustworthy AI application environment, so the industry can innovate with confidence and transform with assurance.”
The “AI with HKPC” Smart Solutions Showcase Series focuses on four common pain points enterprises face during AI transformation, which is “integration challenges, insufficient funding, security concerns, and talent shortage”. Guided by the philosophy of “technology as a bridge, industry as the foundation,” HKPC promotes the popularisation and industrialisation of AI applications. Through the showcase, local SMEs can gain deeper understanding of practical AI use cases across business operations, while also accessing a series of technical solutions and services. HKPC’s self-developed multipurpose AI platform “HKPC Picasso,” aims to respond to the “integration challenges” commonly faced by most enterprises in AI transformation, with “ease of use” as the core concept, providing an end-to-end and executable AI transformation support system for the common needs of different industries. It currently offers six large language model (LLM) modules, over 30 commonly used functional modules, and around 40 applications, supporting rapid development and deployment of smart solutions. This significantly lowers development costs and technical barriers, enabling enterprises to deploy and launch customised AI systems within several weeks. The platform makes AI more accessible, empowering SMEs to kick-start smartification transformation with ease.
HKPC also provides AI Governance and Testing Services to help enterprises address “security concerns”. The services cover AI governance framework design, ethics and compliance review, data privacy assessment, AI content and model security testing, as well as enhancements to model transparency, supporting enterprises in optimising AI systems to meet international standards and establishing a sustainable and responsible AI application framework. In addition, to tackle the “talent shortage” pain point, HKPC offers supporting AI-related training courses to strengthen enterprises’ understanding and practical capabilities in AI application. This helps build a solid foundation for AI transformation while ensuring safety, compliance and public trust throughout technological development.
“AI with HKPC” Nearly 100 Hands-on, Ready-to-Deploy AI Use Cases Across Three Themes
1) Empowering SMEs for the AI Era Solution Day (5–6 February)
Aligned with the 2025 Policy Address direction of supporting SMEs in digitalisation and smartification transformation, the showcase features five exhibition zones, presenting “ready-to-use, fast-impact, low-barrier” AI solutions such as AI-powered accounting, process automation, intelligent customer service, and collaboration tools. These solutions cover operations, infrastructure, security, marketing and talent management. The showcase also introduces AI applications incubated through the “HKPC Picasso” platform and HKPC’s AI governance services, helping SMEs explore transformation pathways based on their needs.
All solutions are sourced from HKPC’s free platform Digital DIY, which integrates trusted AI solutions from Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland. Addressing SMEs’ pain points of “limited channels and difficulty in choosing,” the platform provides efficient matching and clear adoption guidance—accelerating transformation and enhancing competitiveness.
2) AI in Education Forum Series & Showcase (5–6 February)
To support the HKSAR Government’s push for digital education and the Education Bureau’s AI for Empowering Learning and Teaching Funding Programme, HKPC co-organises the AI in Education Forum Series & Showcasewith the Education Bureau and Hong Kong Education City, helping schools grasp policy directions, technology solutions and AI teaching planning.
The event features over 60 AI education solutions, including language learning, SEN support and smart assessment, and for the first time centrally showcases 22 projects under the Quality Education Fund (QEF) e-Learning Ancillary Facilities Programme (eLAFP) developed by universities and institutions. The seminar series includes a principals’ forum themed “Achieve More with Less: AI Integration Strategies for Hong Kong Schools,” where primary and secondary school principals share hands-on experience. HKPC Academy will also introduce how schools can leverage Government funding to effectively integrate AI into school-based teaching, learning and administration to improve efficiency.
3) AI Driven Solutions for Smarter Property Sharing Session (9 February)
The AI-Powered Smarter Property Management Sharing Sessionon 9 February will align with the smart building development blueprint under Smart City Blueprint 2.0, as well as the HKSAR Government’s advocacy for deeper AI integration across industries. It aims to help the industry understand emerging AI applications in property management.
The session will feature multiple AI technologies developed by HKPC, including Water Tank Cleaning Robot successfully piloted with Jones Lang LaSalle, Pureland Drone Facade Cleaningwith advantages for high-altitude work safety, Recycling Bin Transporter utilising automation, AI, and sensor technologies, and anAutonomous Wheelchair suitable for elderly and persons with disabilities, demonstrating how innovation can enhance building management efficiency, improve resident experience, and advance sustainable urban development.
Click here to download the high-resolution photos
Photo caption:
1. The Hon Sunny TAN, Chairman of the Hong Kong Productivity Council, delivers a speech at the opening ceremony, encouraging SMEs to adopt AI to enhance competitiveness and operational efficiency.
2. Professor SUN Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, HKSAR Government, attends the opening ceremony of the “AI with HKPC” Smart Solutions Showcase Series, supporting the popularisation and practical deployment of AI.
3. Mr Edmond LAI, Chief Digital Officer of HKPC, delivers a keynote speech explaining the core value of HKPC’s self-developed multipurpose AI platform “HKPC Picasso” and how it addresses enterprises’ transformation pain points.
4. The officiating move guests and industry representatives take a group photo to witness the grand opening of the three-day “AI with HKPC” Smart Solutions Showcase Series, marking AI’s toward broader adoption and industrialisation.
5. The showcase features multiple AI application solutions tailored for SMEs, covering smart operations, data analytics and customer experience, attracting many industry visitors for exchanges.
Hashtag: #HKPC
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) is a statutory body established in 1967, dedicated to enhancing the productivity and competitiveness of Hong Kong enterprises through world-class applied R&D, innovative technology services, and integrated manufacturing solutions. As a market-oriented, international R&D organisation, HKPC leverages its deep expertise and extensive industry experience in key areas such as AI, advanced manufacturing, life and health technology, green technology and new energy to drive new industrialisation and support the growth of emerging and future industries.
HKPC focuses on addressing businesses challenges and industrial technology needs, promoting the full integration between technological and industrial innovation. Through technology transfer, product innovation, intellectual property protection and commercialisation of R&D outcomes, the Council fosters collaboration with the local business community as well as top global R&D institutions, delivering added value to industries and advancing the development of new productive forces. HKPC’s world-class R&D achievements have been widely recognised over the years, winning an array of local and overseas accolades, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as an international innovation and technology centre and a smart city.
To help enterprises capitalise on Hong Kong’s strengths in international connectivity to expand into global markets, HKPC offers comprehensive overseas expansion services tailored to critical areas including product development, technology, manufacturing, and management, enabling businesses to successfully go global from Hong Kong.
HKPC is also committed to providing timely and practical support to SMEs and startups with timely and practical, assisting them in accessing Government funding programmes. Through its FutureSkills training initiatives, HKPC helps both industry and academia stay ahead in latest digital and STEM technologies, nurturing a future-ready talent pool for Hong Kong.
For more information, please visit HKPC’s website: www.hkpc.org/en.
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