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PHNOM PENH, CAMBODIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 August 2026 – The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is inviting the public to celebrate the completion of the Phnom Penh Cambodia Temple, and to tour the new temple. This sacred house of worship is the first Latter-day Saint temple in the Kingdom of Cambodia.

The First Presidency of the Church has announced that open house tours will run from Saturday, 15 August 2026, to Saturday, 22 August 2026, except on Sunday. The open house provides all people of all faiths the opportunity to tour the temple’s beautiful interior and grounds and learn about the purpose of this sacred structure.

Open house tours will be conducted:

• Saturdays, 15 & 22 August: 9:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.
• Monday–Friday, 17–21 August: 4:00 p.m.–8:00 p.m.
• Sunday, 16 August: No tours available.

The temple is located on Russian Federation Boulevard Phnom Penh 12040, on a 1.3-hectare site. Tours are free, and no reservations are needed. More information is available at https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/featured/phnom-penh-cambodia-open-house?lang=eng

Elder Eng Bunhuoch, an Area Seventy and senior leader of the Church in Cambodia, said, “The Phnom Penh Cambodia Temple is a testament to the enduring faith of our Cambodian members and will serve as a focal point of spiritual growth for many years to come. It is more than a building; it is a sacred space that symbolizes our commitment to the teachings of Jesus Christ and the eternal nature of families.

“We invite all to come, learn, and walk with us in our holy temple. You can experience our impression of heaven on earth and the special feelings that exist in the House of the Lord. In this temple, you will feel peace, receive inspiration, feel His love, and draw closer to Him. Our members open their arms to you and invite everyone to share the joy we feel in the temple.”

Following the public open house, the temple will be formally dedicated on Sunday, 30 August 2026. The open house presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for all members of the public to enter and tour the temple prior to its dedication. After the dedication, the temple grounds will remain open to visitors; however, entry into the temple itself will be reserved for faithful members of the Church.

There are nearly 18,000 members of the Church in Cambodia. The temple will serve Church members in Cambodia and parts of Vietnam.

The architecture of the temple is inspired by traditional Khmer design elements and cultural heritage, with a central spire surrounded by four smaller spires.

The temple was announced by Church President Russell M. Nelson on 7 October 2018. Groundbreaking was held 18 September 2021, with the dedicatory prayer offered by Cambodia Phnom Penh Mission President Veasna Kuonno Neang.

Temples of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints differ from meetinghouses or chapels, where members gather for Sunday worship services. Each temple is considered a House of the Lord, where Jesus Christ’s teachings are reaffirmed through sacred ceremonies that unite families eternally.

In the temple, Church members learn more about the purpose of life. They learn where we came from before birth, why we are on this earth, and what will happen after we die. In the temple, members make promises to follow Jesus Christ and to serve others.

Hashtag: #PhnomPenhCambodiaTemple #CambodiaTemple #TempleOpenHouse #HouseOfTheLord #ComeAndSee #ChurchofJesusChrist #LatterDaySaints #JesusChrist #LDS

https://news-kh.churchofjesuschrist.org/
https://www.facebook.com/ChurchofJesusChrist.kh

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

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints is a worldwide Christian faith of nearly 18 million members, centered on the belief that all people are children of a loving God and that Jesus Christ is the Savior of mankind. Its mission is to bring people to Christ through learning His gospel, making special promises, and practicing love and service.

Members help others by living Christ’s teachings, caring for those in need, inviting all to receive the gospel, and uniting families eternally through temple work. Members are encouraged to be law-abiding, patriotic citizens who love and support their families, creating strong communities and a peaceful society.

The Church has more than 30,000 congregations in more than 160 countries, led by volunteer local leaders.

The Church offers resources in more than 110 languages, operates universities, and has a large humanitarian aid program. It has completed more than 670 humanitarian projects in Cambodia. The Church was restored in 1830 by Joseph Smith after a divine visitation. The Book of Mormon, a sacred record, complements the Bible, testifying of Jesus Christ’s divinity.

The certification recognizes the substantial progress Vinhomes Green Paradise has made in advancing its smart city development in alignment with international standards. WCCD acknowledged that the project has achieved remarkable progress in its design, planning, and development strategy. This WCCD Certification serves as an important foundation for the project as it advances toward Full Certification upon commencement of operations.

The award of the WCCD Interim Custom ISO 37122 Smart City Certification follows a comprehensive assessment conducted by the WCCD and based upon the customized indicators framework WCCD specifically developed for greenfield development projects. The framework incorporates the core principles of ISO 37122, one of the world’s most respected international standards for measuring and evaluating smart city performance.

Dr. Patricia McCarney, President & CEO of the World Council on City Data (WCCD) and Director of Standardized Urban Metrics (SUM), stated: “This WCCD InterimCustom ISO 37122 Smart City Certification recognizes Vinhomes’ long-term vision and commitment to developing a smart, sustainable, and future-ready urban model. The Vinhomes Green Paradise – Can Gio urban development project is now equipped with a powerful baseline of data designed to propel success, providing a strong foundation for year-over-year monitoring of development goals in smart urban governance, infrastructure development, technology adoption and sustainability, ensuring Full ISO 37122 Certification once operations commence. We congratulate Vinhomes on this important certification milestone, a global first, setting a new precedent for greenfield developments in cities worldwide.“

Mr. Chulse Oh, Head of AX Group at Korea Management Association Consultants (KMAC), commented: “The award of the WCCD Interim Custom ISO 37122 Smart City Certification marks an important milestone in realizing the vision of a world-class smart city in Vietnam. KMAC will continue to support the project in developing smart city solutions and implementation strategies and refining the criteria for a comprehensive smart city model during the operational phase.”

In March 2026, Vinhomes Green Paradise officially launched its Smart City Certification Project in partnership with WCCD, SUM, and KMAC. Under the agreed roadmap, the Interim Custom Certification represents the first major milestone in the process of assessing and refining the criteria for a comprehensive smart city model aligned with international standards.

Vinhomes Green Paradise benefits from a unique geographical setting, overlooking the Can Gio Sea and adjacent to the UNESCO-recognized Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve, which spans over 75,000 hectares. The development features a total area of 2,870 hectares, and a construction density of only 16%. Vinhomes is pioneering the project under its enhanced ESG++ model, structured around five pillars: Environment, Social, Governance, Regeneration, and Climate Adaptation.

Upon full operation, the entire urban management system will be greened, with the goal of utilizing 100% clean electricity generated from renewable energy sources and achieving 100% net-zero emission transportation. In addition to strict compliance with environmental protection standards, the project places a strong emphasis on biodiversity conservation and ecosystem regeneration, aligned with Ho Chi Minh City’s climate adaptation strategy.

To support these efforts, a Forest Regeneration and Climate Adaptation Fund will be established to finance research, restoration, and long-term resilience initiatives. A key focus of the fund is the regeneration of the Can Gio mangrove ecosystem, helping to create a protective green belt for the entire development.

With its pioneering ESG++ vision, Vinhomes Green Paradise has become the first Official Participant in the “7 Wonders of the Future Cities” campaign initiated by New7Wonders.

The award of the WCCD Interim Custom ISO 37122 Smart City Certification further reinforces Vinhomes Green Paradise’s pioneering vision in advancing a smart and sustainable urban model that meets international standards, while progressing toward becoming a benchmark future city for the region and the world.

Hashtag: #Vinhomes

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

About Vinhomes

Vinhomes is Vietnam’s leading real estate investment, development, and management company. It currently operates 32 urban developments while expanding its portfolio of flagship projects across strategically important provinces and cities nationwide. By integrating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles with modern, highly connected infrastructure, Vinhomes is creating world-class integrated townships and megacities that are redefining Vietnam’s real estate market, driving sustainable development, and elevating the country’s urban landscape to international standards.

About the World Council on City Data (WCCD):

Established in Canada in 2014, the World Council on City Data (WCCD) is committed to helping cities and communities of all sizes globally embrace ISO standardized, independently verified, and globally comparable city data. The organization facilitates data-driven decision-making processes in management, planning, and investment, enabling cities to become more sustainable, safe, resilient, prosperous, inclusive, and smart.

The WCCD team of professionals spearheaded the development and implementation of three international standards on city data, which have been published by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) in Geneva. These standards, referred to as the WCCD ISO 37120 Series on City Data, encompass ISO 37120 (Indicators for Sustainable Cities), ISO 37122 (Indicators for Smart Cities), and ISO 37123 (Indicators for Resilient Cities).

Since its inception, the WCCD has been expanding its global network of cities dedicated to high-caliber data. The WCCD collaborates with more than 125 cities across 40 different countries.

About Standardized Urban Metrics (SUM):

Cities worldwide are taking centre stage in the drive toward sustainable development and the prosperity of nations. Standardized Urban Metrics (SUM) is designed to build on the strengths of its rapidly expanding global network of city leaders, senior levels of government officials, private capital market professionals and key international organizations and industry innovators dedicated to securing a better future for cities.

SUM’s service provision spans services connected to the ISO 37120 Series (ISO 37120 – Indicators for City Services and Quality of Life, ISO 37122 – Indicators for Smart Cities and ISO 37123 – Indicators for Resilient Cities) in partnership with the World Council on City Data (WCCD). The SUM team work with city leaders and private developers to customize these ISO certifications for new greenfield developments – new cities, new business districts and new communities.

SUM houses a new global first – the ISO 37125 International Standard on Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Indicators for Cities and Regions. The SUM ISO 37125 certification protocol supports cities to report ESG city level data in conformity with the ISO globally standardized definitions and methodologies. SUM’s third-party verification process ensures the highest calibre data for cities across the globe. This Standard provides city leaders, governments, and the private sector with a robust, data-driven framework to guide ESG initiatives, drive infrastructure investment, attract investment, create and implement strategic planning decisions, propel innovation, and ensure socially inclusive planning and management. SUM is welcoming cities to join an exciting global cohort of World Premiere Cities – the first ISO 37125-certified cities.

SUM establishes a global hub for innovative learning partnerships among leaders of cities and private capital markets. Together, SUM and its partners foster innovation, imagine alternative futures, and create more livable cities. Certification by SUM underscores a collective commitment to a sustainable and prosperous future for cities and regions.

For more information, please contact:

Dr. Patricia McCarney
President & CEO, World Council on City Data (WCCD) and
Director, Standardized Urban Metrics (SUM)
[email protected]

About KMAC

Korea Management Association Consultants (KMAC) is one of Asia’s leading management consulting firms, delivering end-to-end capabilities from strategy formulation and transformation design to operational implementation and performance improvement. For decades, KMAC has served as a trusted innovation partner to the Korean government, public institutions, and leading private-sector enterprises, helping shape and execute initiatives that strengthen national competitiveness, modernize industries, and advance digital and AI transformation, sustainability, and organizational excellence. By combining deep sector expertise, rigorous strategic insight, and proven execution capabilities with an extensive regional network, KMAC enables clients to convert ambitious visions into actionable roadmaps, measurable operational outcomes, and sustainable growth across Asia and global markets.

For more information, please contact:

Mr. Young Hwan Park
Team Lead of Asia Business Center,
Korea Management Association Consultants (KMAC)
[email protected]

Chemically defined medium removes animal serum and human platelet supplements as Malaysia and Singapore strengthen advanced therapy capabilities

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 August 2026 –Singapore is estimated to record approximately 19,290 new cancer cases in 2024, underscoring the growing demand for advanced treatment options and the manufacturing systems needed to produce them consistently. As cell therapies move from research towards clinical use, the reliability of every raw material used in production becomes increasingly important.

AuctuCel Pte Ltd, a Singapore biotechnology company specialising in AI-powered bioprocess technologies, today announced the launch of AuctuPrime, a next-generation chemically defined cell culture medium developed in collaboration with Sperikon. The formulation is designed to remove dependence on both animal serum and donor-derived human platelet supplements during cell therapy manufacturing.

The launch comes as both markets continue to deepen their advanced therapy ecosystems. The Singapore Economic Development Board reported that the country saw a fourfold increase in locally incorporated biotechnology companies since 2015. In Malaysia, the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency issued updated cell and gene therapy product guidance in September 2025, including revised Good Manufacturing Practice requirements. As more research moves towards clinical translation, the reliability and traceability of manufacturing inputs are receiving greater attention.

A less visible bottleneck in cell therapy

Cell therapies are advancing across cancer, autoimmune disease and regenerative medicine, but manufacturing remains one of the major barriers to wider clinical and commercial adoption. Many conventional culture processes still use animal serum or platelet-derived supplements from human donors. These biological materials can vary between batches and may introduce additional sourcing, testing and documentation requirements.

AuctuPrime replaces these supplements with a fully chemically defined formulation. By giving researchers and manufacturers clearer control over what enters the process, it is intended to provide a more reproducible foundation for scale-up from laboratory research to clinical and commercial manufacturing.

The formulation is designed to support:

* Elimination of animal serum and human platelet supplements

* Reduced batch-to-batch variability in the culture process

* Lower dependence on donor-derived biological raw materials

* Greater supply chain resilience through chemically defined inputs

* More consistent scale-up and technology transfer across manufacturing stages

* A xeno-free approach for regenerative medicine and cell therapy workflowsWhy the manufacturing medium matters to patients

“Culture medium is not the therapy itself, but it can influence how reliably cells are produced. By removing animal serum and human platelet supplements, AuctuPrime gives researchers and manufacturers greater control over the process, helping to reduce variability and prepare for larger-scale production.” said Dr Zach Pang, Co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of AuctuCel.

Supporting Singapore’s advanced therapy ecosystem

Singapore is strengthening its position as a regional hub for advanced therapies, supported by its universities, hospitals, research institutions and biotechnology companies. These organisations are building capabilities that connect early-stage research with regulated manufacturing and future clinical applications. Chemically defined media can support this progress by reducing reliance on variable biological inputs and enabling processes to be reproduced more consistently across local research and manufacturing facilities.

“Singapore’s continued progress in regenerative medicine will depend not only on scientific breakthroughs, but also on the ability to manufacture therapies safely, consistently and at scale. AuctuPrime represents an important step towards building a more reproducible manufacturing platform and can support local research and industry teams as they prepare for future clinical and commercial demand,” said Dr Chee Wai Fhu, Chief Executive Officer of AuctuCel.

For the wider region, stronger manufacturing foundations also matter for healthcare resilience. Cell therapies are complex products with demanding quality requirements, and the ability to manufacture them consistently will shape how quickly promising research can progress towards clinical use.

“The future of regenerative medicine depends not only on scientific breakthroughs, but on our ability to manufacture these therapies safely, consistently and at scale,” said Dr Chee Wai Fhu, Chief Executive Officer of AuctuCel. “AuctuPrime is an important step towards a more reproducible manufacturing platform. By removing dependence on animal serum and human platelet supplements, we hope to help researchers and manufacturers build processes that are better prepared for future clinical and commercial demand.”

Regional collaboration behind the launch

AuctuPrime was developed through a collaboration between AuctuCel and Sperikon, combining AuctuCel’s bioprocess and culture media expertise with Sperikon’s experience in regenerative medicine and cell therapy development.

Behind every cell therapy breakthrough is a production process that must work repeatedly, not only once. Improving that process is one of the practical steps needed to bring the next generation of therapies closer to the patients who may benefit from them.

Notes to editors

A chemically defined medium is a formulation in which the components and their concentrations are known and controlled. In this context, xeno-free means the formulation does not rely on animal-derived materials. AuctuPrime is a manufacturing input used during cell culture and is not itself a cell therapy product.

Hashtag: #AuctuCel

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

About AuctuCel

AuctuCel is a Singapore-based biotechnology company spun out of A*STAR’s Bioprocessing Technology Institute. The company develops AI-powered bioprocess technologies and ready-to-use culture media solutions that help biotechnology and cell therapy companies improve manufacturing consistency, productivity and scalability. By combining advanced modelling, scientific expertise and bioprocess innovation, AuctuCel supports the translation of research into commercially viable biomanufacturing. The company has active operations and partnerships across Singapore, Malaysia and the wider Asian region.

About Sperikon

Sperikon is a biotechnology company focused on regenerative medicine, cell culture technologies and translational research. The company works with academic institutions and industry partners to develop scalable solutions that support the clinical and commercial adoption of advanced cell therapies. Through its collaboration with AuctuCel, Sperikon contributes to the development of next-generation chemically defined manufacturing platforms.

Revenue for the financial year ended March 2026 rose from nearly $9 billion a year earlier, driven mainly by demand for iPhones, Mac computers and services. The increase came as Apple widened its company-owned retail network, expanded financing options and deepened distribution beyond the largest metropolitan centres.

The performance marks a sharp acceleration from the roughly $8 billion recorded in the year ended March 2024. It also underlines Apple’s ability to gain ground in a price-sensitive market where devices using Google’s Android operating system account for the overwhelming majority of smartphone sales.

The iPhone remained Apple’s largest source of revenue in the country. Sales were supported by premiumisation in the smartphone market, trade-in programmes and instalment plans that reduced the upfront cost of devices. Older iPhone models also continued to attract buyers after price reductions following new product launches.

Apple does not disclose country-level sales in its global financial statements. The India figure reflects sales booked through its local operation and may include products distributed through company stores, online channels, authorised resellers and large electronics chains.

The company now operates six physical stores across Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Pune and Noida. Its latest outlet opened in Borivali, Mumbai, in February, adding to Apple BKC, Apple Saket, Apple Hebbal, Apple Koregaon Park and Apple Noida.

Further retail expansion is being prepared, including another store in Bengaluru. Apple has also been recruiting specialists, technical staff and customer-support employees for multiple locations, indicating that its direct-sales presence will continue to grow.

Company-owned stores offer Apple greater control over pricing, product presentation and after-sales support. They also provide space for training sessions, product demonstrations and technical services, helping the group build customer loyalty in a market where many purchases have traditionally been made through third-party retailers.

The Apple Store online, launched in 2020, remains an important part of the company’s strategy. It allows customers across the country to access trade-ins, custom Mac configurations, education pricing and direct delivery, including in cities without a physical Apple outlet.

Apple’s sales expansion has coincided with a substantial increase in local manufacturing. Contract manufacturers Foxconn and Tata Electronics have raised iPhone assembly capacity, while suppliers are expanding component operations to support a broader production ecosystem.

The country is expected to account for about a quarter of global iPhone production during 2026. Apple has also been working to supply a larger share of devices sold in the United States from factories operated by its partners in the country, reducing dependence on China.

The manufacturing network includes operations in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, with further investment planned in assembly, enclosures, display components and semiconductor-related infrastructure. The expansion is being supported by production incentives and proposed tax concessions for foreign companies supplying equipment to contract manufacturers.

Authorities have proposed extending exemptions covering machinery provided to electronics producers until 2041. The measures are designed to reduce tax uncertainty for global suppliers and encourage longer-term investment in mobile phones, laptops, tablets and wearable devices.

Local production has helped Apple avoid some import duties and improve product availability. However, the company still relies heavily on components sourced from abroad, and manufacturing costs can remain higher than in China because of logistics, tariffs and a less developed supplier base.

India delivered another record quarter for Apple during the three months ended June. Mac sales reached an all-time high in the country, while demand for iPhones and other devices continued to expand.

Globally, Apple reported revenue of $109.42 billion for its fiscal third quarter, up 16 per cent from a year earlier. iPhone revenue climbed 22 per cent to $54.25 billion, while Mac revenue advanced 29 per cent to $10.35 billion.

Despite its growth, Apple remains a relatively small player by unit volume in the country’s smartphone market. Its share is considerably stronger in the premium category, where consumers are showing greater willingness to spend on high-end devices, financing plans and connected services.

Spotlighting Macao’s Emerging Medical and Wellness Sector

MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 August 2026 – iRad Hospital, a premier medical and wellness facility launched by Melco Resorts & Entertainment and iRad Group, was recently featured in a July 2026 episode of CNN’s internationally broadcast program Meanwhile in Asia. The program discussed Macao’s efforts to diversify its economy beyond gaming, spotlighting its medical and wellness tourism sector.

During the episode, CNN examined how destinations across Asia are seeking new growth avenues, noting Macao’s strategic push to develop a niche in medical tourism. The feature included a visit to iRad Hospital, which opened within a luxury integrated resort environment, and highlighted its proposition of allowing visitors to incorporate health screenings and aesthetic treatments into their leisure or family stays.

Located at Melco’s Studio City, iRad Hospital is the world’s first and Macao’s only integrated resort hospital. In partnership with iRad, Melco is playing a leading role in advancing Macao’s medical tourism development by integrating healthcare and wellness services with its world-class Forbes Five-star spa portfolio. The initiative aligns with Macao’s broader economic diversification objectives and contributes to strengthening the city’s appeal to high-value international visitors beyond gaming.

iRad Hospital offers advanced diagnostic imaging, wellness and preventive care, aesthetic medicine, executive health screening, and dedicated medical concierge services. Through partnerships with leading hospitals and institutions in Hong Kong, the United States and Korea, the hospital provides visitors with access to expanded specialty medical resources and healthcare options.

Mr. Lawrence Ho, Chairman & CEO of Melco Resorts & Entertainment, said, “Macao’s next phase of development will be defined by quality, innovation, and diversification. As the leading integrated resort operator, we are committed to advancing the evolution of the integrated resort model beyond traditional hospitality—integrating culture, wellness, and high‑value services that strengthen the city’s long‑term competitiveness. Through initiatives such as iRad Hospital at Studio City, Melco is helping shape the development of integrated medical and wellness tourism and enhancing Macao’s visibility as a diversified international destination.”

Hashtag: #melco #iRadHospital #iRad #StudioCity #medicaltourism #wellness

https://www.melco-resorts.com
https://hk.linkedin.com/company/melco-resorts-entertainment
https://x.com/MelcoResorts
https://www.facebook.com/MelcoCSR/
Wechat: 新濠博亚娱乐

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

About Melco Resorts & Entertainment Limited

The Company, with its American depositary shares listed on the Nasdaq Global Select Market (Nasdaq: MLCO), is a developer, owner and operator of integrated resort facilities in Asia and Europe. The Company currently operates City of Dreams (www.cityofdreamsmacau.com) and Altira Macau (www.altiramacau.com), integrated resorts located in Cotai and Taipa, Macau, respectively. In addition, the Company operates Studio City (www.studiocity-macau.com), a cinematically-themed integrated resort in Cotai, Macau. In the Philippines, the Company operates and manages City of Dreams Manila (www.cityofdreamsmanila.com), an integrated resort in the Entertainment City complex in Manila. In Europe, the Company operates City of Dreams Mediterranean, an integrated resort in Limassol, in the Republic of Cyprus (www.cityofdreamsmed.com.cy). In South Asia, the Company manages the Nüwa hotel at City of Dreams Sri Lanka (www.cityofdreamssrilanka.com), an integrated resort in Colombo, Sri Lanka. For more information about the Company, please visitwww.melco-resorts.com.

The Company is majority owned by Melco International Development Limited, a company listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited, which is in turn majority owned and led by Mr. Lawrence Ho, who is the Chairman, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the Company.

About iRad – Hong Kong’s largest MRI diagnostic services provider

Established in 2006, iRad is a trusted leader in diagnostic radiology across Hong Kong. As at 2024, iRad was the largest MRI diagnostic services provider in Hong Kong by revenue and by the number of MRI scanners. Focused on delivering high-quality imaging services and exceptional patient care, the Group’s strong and extensive client base includes the Government of the Hong Kong SAR, as well as other high-profile medical groups, corporations, private doctors and NGOs. Meanwhile, iRad Hospital is the first and largest private medical imaging and examination service provider within an integrated resort in Macau, making iRad Group the first medical imaging group in the world to offer comprehensive private imaging and examination services, including MRI and CT services, to the integrated resort industry.

This trend reflects the growth of Event Tourism, or activity-based tourism, which is gaining popularity among a new generation of both Thai and international travellers. Events are not merely a reason to travel; they are also a starting point for sharing experiences with like-minded people, feeling the energy of a city at its liveliest and enriching the journey through food, culture, lifestyle, relaxation and memorable moments along the way.

Pattaya is one destination that clearly reflects this new travel trend. Once best known as a familiar seaside getaway near Bangkok, the city has now evolved into a vibrant year-round destination, with everything from sporting competitions, music festivals and beachfront activities to international lifestyle events such as Wonderfruit, Rolling Loud Thailand, the Pattaya International Fireworks Festival, Pattaya Music Festival, Honda LPGA Thailand and the Pattaya Marathon, as well as many other international events that continue to draw Thai and overseas travellers back at different times of the year.

This September, the 33rd Pattaya Marathon 2026, to be held on 26 and 27 September 2026, is another major event that reinforces Pattaya’s role as an Event Tourism city. This year, more than 40,000 runners and family members from various countries are expected to travel to take part, filling Pattaya with the atmosphere of travel, connection and the energy of people brought together through sport. Adding to its appeal, the race combines a scenic coastal course with Pattaya’s lively urban energy, giving runners the opportunity to enjoy sunrise views over the Gulf of Thailand, refreshing sea breezes and some of the city’s most recognisable beachfront landmarks.

But the appeal of travelling to Pattaya for an event does not end on race day. After the run or activity, travellers can extend their trip with many more experiences, from strolling along the beach and visiting cafés in popular neighbourhoods to dining at well-known local restaurants, spending time at a beach club, trying water activities, or relaxing with family and friends in an easily accessible beach city that stays lively throughout the day.

To complement this style of travel, ONYX Hospitality Group welcomes travellers at its two Pattaya hotels: Amari Pattaya and OZO North Pattaya. Both are conveniently located for easy access to the city’s vibrant attractions and close to the Pattaya Marathon 2026 starting point, making them ideal for runners, families and travellers who want to turn an event trip into a seaside break.

For those looking to make their holiday experience even more complete, Amari Pattaya presents a new definition of multi-generational family holidays. For families travelling together, the hotel offers a balanced approach that allows members of every generation to enjoy their own lifestyle seamlessly before coming together again to share happy moments as a family.

While some family members may choose to explore Pattaya Beach or enjoy outdoor activities, others can unwind at Maai Spa, a premium spa that blends contemporary Thai wellness practices with the refined inspiration of silk to restore both body and mind.

For larger families travelling with little princes and princesses, children can let their imaginations run free through creative activities at The Treehouse Kids Club and the expansive water park, while grandparents can retreat to the peaceful privacy and exclusive service of Club Napha.

Amari Pattaya also brings the whole family together over memorable meals, from authentic Thai cuisine crafted with carefully selected local ingredients and a selection of Western favourites at Amaya Food Gallery, to authentic Italian cuisine served in the warm ambience of Prego Pattaya Pasta Lab and Bar, a beachfront Italian restaurant where families and friends can gather over fresh pasta, handcrafted dishes and contemporary interpretations of Italian classics in a warm and welcoming setting

Meanwhile, OZO North Pattaya is an ideal choice for travellers who want to make the most of every moment of their trip. Its location close to the beach, major shopping centres, cafés, restaurants and the city’s key event venues makes it easy to experience Pattaya’s vibrant atmosphere. Guests can start the day with breakfast at EAT, take a stroll by the sea, stop at a café during the day and conveniently round off the evening with Pattaya’s nightlife. Back at the hotel, they can relax by the large swimming pool or recharge at the fitness centre before retiring to a room designed for a truly restful night’s sleep, ready to welcome a new morning and enjoy the city all over again.

More than just a seaside city near Bangkok, Pattaya today is a destination where travellers can shape their own experiences throughout the day, from relaxing on the beach and enjoying brunch at an inviting café to water activities, art attractions and seaside dining at sunset. This is the appeal of Event Tourism: an event is not merely the reason to travel, but the starting point for a trip filled with people, atmosphere and memorable moments.

For runners, families, groups of friends or anyone look for a seasonal getaway, Pattaya Marathon 2026 could be a good reason to start planning the next trip and use the opportunity to experience a side of Pattaya that goes beyond the beach.

Hashtag: #OnyxHospitalityGroup #AmariPattayaHotel #OZONorthHotel

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

About ONYX Hospitality Group

ONYX Hospitality Group, one of the most respected names in the Asia-Pacific hospitality industry, manages a comprehensive and complementary portfolio of brands — Amari, OZO, Shama and Oriental Residence — designed to meet the diverse needs of both business and leisure travellers across the region. Beyond its accommodation brands, the Group also provides additional hospitality services spanning spa, food and beverage.

With more than six decades of management experience, the company has expanded its innovative solutions across the region while maintaining internationally recognised standards and ensuring operational agility and optimal efficiency. By fostering enduring relationships with like-minded business partners, ONYX Hospitality Group delivers unrivalled experiences in a highly competitive and constantly evolving market, meeting the ever-changing needs of travellers.

More information: www.onyx-hospitality.com

Follow ONYX Hospitality Group at:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ONYXHospitalityGroup

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onyxhospitalitygroup/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/onyx-hospitality-group

The transaction highlights strong confidence among global investors in HDBank and Vietnam’s long-term economic prospects.

The proceeds will be used to expand access to finance for micro, small and medium-sized enterprises, particularly women-owned businesses, supporting financial inclusion and sustainable development in Vietnam.

The facility was structured in line with the Social Loan Principles and HDBank’s Sustainable Finance Framework. ADB and Standard Chartered served as joint coordinators, while ANZ, Cathay United Bank, Commerzbank, Maybank Securities, MUFG Bank and the State Bank of India acted as mandated lead arrangers and bookrunners.

The transaction attracted strong interest from international investors, with commitments reaching US$721 million, around 60 per cent above the original target.

CEO of Standard Chartered Vietnam said the facility is the largest syndicated social loan ever raised by a Vietnamese organisation.

“This achievement reflects investors’ confidence in HDBank and its leadership team, and demonstrates optimism about Vietnam’s long-term growth prospects and the growing appeal of the country’s sustainable finance market among global investors,” the CEO said.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Dr Nguyen Thi Phuong Thao, Permanent Vice Chairwoman of HDBank’s Board of Directors, described the loan as a new milestone for the bank.

“It is our first financing facility dedicated exclusively to social initiatives, including programmes supporting women,” she said, adding that the transaction recognised HDBank’s long-standing commitment to community development through programmes supporting businesses, healthcare, education, culture, sports, women and children.

Tran Hoai Nam, HDBank’s Permanent Deputy CEO, said the proceeds would strengthen the bank’s medium- and long-term funding base while expanding lending to SMEs, particularly women-led businesses.

Earlier, HDBank had secured US$270 million in green financing and US$380 million in sustainable finance from international development finance institutions, including IFC, ADB, Proparco, DEG, LeapFrog, FMO, BII, JICA, FinDev and SMBC.

Hashtag: #HDBank

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

As the global watch industry slows and fraud risks in the secondary channel draw public attention, Times Avenue is among Singapore’s secondhand luxury watch specialists seeing sustained growth on the back of shifting buyer preferences and tightening consumer scrutiny

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 August 2026 – Times Avenue by Horology Maison marks its five-year anniversary in 2026, as Singapore’s pre-owned luxury watch market expands amid a broader slowdown in the global watch industry.

A Growing Secondary Market and the Case for Regulated Dealers
The Bloomberg Subdial Watch Index, which tracks the 50 most-traded references by transaction value, recorded its best half-year performance since early 2022 in the first half of 2025, reflecting a broader shift in buyer preference towards the secondary channel.

The growth of the pre-owned segment has been driven by a combination of factors, including tighter supply of popular references at authorised dealers, record gold prices lifting new watch retail costs, and a shift among buyers towards immediate availability and market-reflective pricing.

Founded in 2020, Times Avenue has grown alongside this trend, transacting more than 3,000 authenticated timepieces from its Beach Road boutique over its first five years of operation. The boutique’s inventory is weighted towards luxury Swiss timepieces including Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Tudor and Cartier, with a focus on sought-after references that are typically subject to long waiting lists in the primary market.

At the same time, authentication and fraud risks in the secondary channel have drawn public attention, including the recent prosecution of an Italian national who attempted to trade a “fake” Rolex GMT Saru at a Singapore retailer. Both developments underline the importance of sourcing from licensed, regulated dealers.

Licensed secondhand goods dealers like Times Avenue operate under frameworks that impose customer due diligence, transaction reporting, record-keeping, and stock movement obligations. Exempted by the Singapore Police Force and a fully regulated dealer under the Ministry of Law, Times Avenue ensures that every watch sold undergoes rigorous in-house authentication before it reaches the client, and each piece is covered by an in-house warranty, giving buyers assurance of authenticity for every transaction.

Times Avenue also offers in-person buying from the public, trade-ins, consignment, and authentication, alongside retail, covering both the acquisition and resale ends of the secondary market.

Clients and prospective buyers can view current inventory, arrange private viewings, or request a sourcing consultation at https://horologymaison.com/contact-us/.
Hashtag: #TimesAvenue #PreOwnedWatches #LuxuryWatchesSingapore #WatchCollector #HorologyMaison

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Times Avenue by Horology Maison

Times Avenue by Horology Maison is a Singapore-based luxury watch grey dealer established in 2021, offering authenticated new and pre-owned timepieces from Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Tudor, Cartier and other leading maisons. The company provides retail, buying, trade-in, consignment, sourcing and authentication services from its boutique at 371 Beach Road #02-55 City Gate, Singapore 199597. Times Avenue by Horology Maison is registered with the Ministry of Law as a Regulated Dealer (Registration No. PS20220002864) and holds SPF Exempted Second-Hand Goods Dealer status.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 August 2026 – The Eugene BB Expo, Hong Kong’s largest annual maternity and baby grand event, grandly opened at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. XINGZISHAN, an original Chinese functional kids’ loungewear brand from mainland China, staged its highly anticipated debut at the exhibition. Blending Eastern and Western aesthetics with premium craftsmanship, the brand leverages the Greater Bay Area as a strategic gateway to complete its landmark Hong Kong & Macau market premiere, officially kicking off its overseas expansion journey.

Hashtag: #XINGZISHAN

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