Introduced at Hong Kong FinTech Week, KY-AI™ brings a structured approach to AI oversight, aligned with the accountability, resilience and trust principles of the HKMA’s ART Framework.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 November 2026 – iCOMPASS, the developer of ULTRA™, an AI-powered Compliance Operating System, today introduced KY-AI™ (Know Your Artificial Intelligence) to the Hong Kong market at Hong Kong FinTech Week 2026. The announcement follows the Hong Kong Monetary Authority’s (HKMA) introduction of its ART Framework on 15 October, sharpening attention on how banks establish accountability, operational resilience and trust as artificial intelligence becomes more autonomous.
Financial institutions are moving beyond AI experiments towards tools that analyse sensitive data, recommend decisions and increasingly act across connected systems. Yet a basic governance question remains: can an institution identify where AI is operating, what it is permitted to do, who is accountable and whether its behaviour remains acceptable over time?
KY-AI™ turns these questions into a continuous, evidence-based governance process. Built around its Know–Approve–Test–Watch lifecycle, the solution enables financial institutions to identify and understand the AI systems they use, including third-party tools, assess their risks and potential impact, establish clear ownership and accountability, and ensure appropriate approvals and ongoing monitoring are in place.
As AI systems evolve, KY-AI™ enables institutions to track material changes, detect emerging risks and intervene when necessary. This transforms AI oversight from a one-time assessment into a continuous, evidence–based governance process that strengthens accountability and builds lasting trust in AI outcomes.
“The question is no longer simply whether a financial institution uses AI, but whether management truly understands what each AI system does, the risks involved, who is accountable and when intervention is needed,” said Raymond Moh, CEO of iCOMPASS. “With KY-AI™, we are applying the same discipline of knowing your customer to knowing your artificial intelligence. By making AI oversight an ongoing, documented process rather than a one-off exercise, we help financial institutions build greater confidence and trust in how AI is used and the outcomes it delivers.”
The introduction builds on iCOMPASS’ 6-in-1 ULTRA KYC™ solution, which brings onboarding & identity verification, screening, customer due diligence, risk assessment, ongoing monitoring and change management into a connected, evidence-linked AML/KYC workflow. Having focused on making customer-risk decisions traceable, iCOMPASS is extending the same emphasis on clear ownership, documented decisions and lifecycle monitoring to AI governance.
Alongside the KY-AI™ introduction, iCOMPASS is collaborating with Cambridge Advisers Hong Kong under a Memorandum of Understanding to deliver digital compliance training through UltraLearn™. Cambridge Advisers Hong Kong provides regulatory training content while iCOMPASS supplies the learning platform powered by AI, including training records, assessments, reminders and CPT tracking. Courses cover areas including AML, cybersecurity, data protection and professional conduct.
iCOMPASS serves more than 100 financial institutions across the region and holds ISO/IEC 27001:2022 certification and a SOC 2 Type II attestation covering all five Trust Services Criteria.
Meet iCOMPASS at Hong Kong FinTech Week 2026, 2–3 November, Hall 5BC, Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About iCOMPASS Limited
iCOMPASS Limited is an award-winning RegTech company transforming how financial institutions manage regulatory compliance through artificial intelligence. With ISO/IEC 27001 certification and SOC 2 Type II attestation, iCOMPASS combines technological innovation with rigorous security standards to deliver intelligent, secure and scalable compliance solutions.
At the heart of its innovation is ULTRA™, an AI-powered Compliance Operating System that brings together regulatory intelligence, policy governance, end-to-end 6-in-1 AML/KYC lifecycle management, compliance training and AI risk management. By connecting traditionally fragmented processes into a unified, intelligent platform, ULTRA™ helps institutions reduce manual work, strengthen accountability and turn regulatory obligations into demonstrable compliance outcomes.
A subscription-based Android malware operation is targeting bank customers across India, allowing criminals to create fraudulent applications that intercept security codes, steal financial credentials and divert verification calls. Cybersecurity company CloudSEK identified the operation, named MR ROBOT, in an investigation published on 28 October. Its findings show that one affiliate controlled 153 compromised devices and intercepted 5,407 text messages, offering a documented glimpse of how the criminal […]
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 31 October 2026 – Celebrating 79 years, Central Department Store, under Central Retail, transforms Central Chidlom into a spectacular “Dream Garden” filled with flowers, art, fashion, food and exciting experiences! Running from 29 October – 2 November 2026, this spectacular flower festival brings five must-experience highlights to the heart of Bangkok.
A Star-Studded Opening Celebration
The festival kicked off with fan-favorite duo Namtan Tipnaree and Film Rachanun, who brought their charm and creativity to the celebration, featuring a special charity art auction of their artworks. All proceeds will benefit the Kamlangjai Project, supporting opportunities and new beginnings for inmates and former inmates. The excitement continued with a special mini concert by Billkin Putthipong, followed by electrifying music from DJ ROOTS and PATRA B, making it a night to remember.
And the excitement doesn’t stop there. Here are 5 reasons to experience this year’s spectacular flower festival.
1. Six Floral Worlds, Endless Photo Opportunities
Explore six picture-perfect floral worlds across Floors G–5: WHITE VIBE, featuring elegant white blooms and a 3.8-metre giant vase; SWEET BREEZE, with ballet-inspired floral displays; GOOD MOOD, a pastel meadow with 31 adorable sheep sculptures; THE HIDDEN WONDER OF TREE ROOTS, an imaginative nature-inspired installation; HANG HANG, showcasing vibrant hanging floral art; and KEEP SMILING, a playful meadow with charming dog sculptures. Every floor offers a picture-perfect moment!
2. Discover Art & Flowers by Japanese Artist YUTA OKUDA
Experience a stunning Art & Flower Installation by YUTA OKUDA, featuring colourful handcrafted flowers made from corn husks, at the connecting tunnel between Central Chidlom and Central Embassy. Continue your creative journey with “A Canvas to Carry: Tote Bag Painting Workshop” on Floor 5 at Central Embassy.
3. Get Creative with DIY Workshops & AI Beauty Experiences
Enjoy hands-on activities including Blooming Keychain, Flower Patch on Tote, Malai Bar & Styling (traditional Thai floral garlands reimagined as fashion accessories), Resin Mobile Case, Hammered Flower Art and Perfume Atelier workshops.
Discover CENTRAL SKIN AI, offering AI-powered skin analysis in approximately five minutes, along with complimentary skincare samples at Beauty Galerie, Floor G. Step into a 3D floral world at Samsung Flower Galaxy Studio, and join the Flower Stamp Rally across eight locations for a THB 100 dining voucher, limited to 100 redemptions.
4. Taste Exclusive Floral Menus from 10 Popular Restaurants
Discover floral-inspired dishes and drinks from Weng, Shichi, Mozza by Cocotte, Ăn Cơm Ăn Cá, The Rolling Pinn, Greyhound, Pash Juices, Taproom, Aeb Zaab Songprapa and Lofter. Don’t miss Blossom Bedazzling and the Blooming Wall at Lofter, Floor 6, plus traditional Thai floral-inspired desserts at Eathai, Central Embassy.
5. Shop Exclusive Collections & Enjoy Over THB 8 Million in Rewards
Enjoy up to 30% off new arrivals, plus Only at Central, Limited Edition and New Drop collections from brands including Estée Lauder, La Mer, Mardi Mercredi, SEIKO, adidas and Pandora. Get combined shopping privileges of up to 32% and discover exciting rewards.
At Central Chidlom, spend THB 5,000 in a single receipt to enter the CENTRAL WONDERS BLOOM MYSTERY BOX, featuring over 3,000 prizes. Fitness lovers can join RUN FOR REWARDS for a THB 400 shopping discount coupon upon presenting proof of a 5 km or 10 km run. Additional privileges await international visitors and The 1 Expat members.
One Destination, Endless Reasons to Visit. From art and creativity to dining and shopping, experience a world of Good Mood & Good Vibes in the heart of Bangkok.
Central Chidlom, Bangkok 29 October – 2 November 2026
Activities, promotions and privileges are subject to terms and conditions. Selected workshops require qualifying purchases.
By Dr. Gyan Pathak Just after the results of MLC elections were out, Prime Minister Narendra Modi led a taunt against Congress for their ‘loss’ on October 28 by posting on X and followed such by the BJP-RSS clan. PM Modi posted, “MLC elections in 28 seats across 4 big states – Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, […]
By Nitya Chakraborty As I read the despondent news of the passing of Jogen Chowdhury, a towering figure of modern Indian art, on Sunday morning in the online edition of a Bengali daily, sitting in my Delhi flat, my memory went 62 years back when Jogen and I, along with a bunch of other close […]
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 October 2026 – Singaporeans are more active than ever, spending an average of $150 per month on fitness activities. But as sport and exercise participation hits an all-time high, so does the risk of injury, and most people are not financially prepared for what comes after.
Singapore clinics have reported a twofold increase in pickleball-related injuries as the sport’s popularity surges across all age groups. ACL injuries among young athletes are on the rise, with rehabilitation timelines stretching nine to 12 months. Cycling accidents continue to result in serious fractures requiring extended hospitalisation leave.
Whether it is a weekend football match, a morning run with a crew, or an evening game of pickleball, the risk of an injury that keeps a working adult off their feet, and off the payroll, is higher than many realise.
Staying active is one of the best things Singaporeans can do for their health, but a single sports injury can undo months of financial planning. While health insurance covers the hospital stay, it does not replace lost income during the weeks or months of recovery at home. Mortgage payments, household expenses, and rehabilitation costs do not stop just because a pay cheque does.
Allianz Accident Protect Plus, a personal accident insurance plan starting from SGD $14.25 per month, is designed to close that gap. When an accident leaves someone unable to work, the plan pays a weekly cash benefit of up to SGD $200 for up to 104 weeks, even if they are recovering at home rather than in a hospital bed.
The plan also covers medical and surgical expenses of up to SGD $7,000 per accident, including physiotherapy, Traditional Chinese Medicine, and chiropractic treatments. For those who do require hospitalisation, a daily hospital income of up to SGD $200 for up to 750 days provides additional support. And because the policy covers injuries sustained through recreational and leisure activities, and accidents beyond the sporting arena, it offers peace of mind whether you are on the court, on the road, or simply going about your day.
Allianz believes that an active lifestyle should be a source of wellbeing, not financial worry. Allianz Accident Protect Plus gives customers the confidence to stay active, knowing that if an injury sidelines them, their finances do not have to be.
Coverage is subject to the terms, conditions, and exclusions of the Allianz Accident Protect Plus policy. Please refer to the Policy Wording for full details. This policy is protected under the Policy Owners’ Protection Scheme which is administered by the Singapore Deposit Insurance Corporation (SDIC). This advertisement has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore. Hashtag: #AllianzInsuranceSingapore
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Allianz Insurance Singapore Pte. Ltd.
At Allianz Insurance Singapore, we aim to secure the future and create a positive impact on society and the environment by leveraging our expertise in risk management. As we work toward strengthening our position as one of Singapore’s leading risk solutions providers, we deliver innovative and customer‑focused protection solutions for individuals, SMEs, and mid‑corporate clients – spanning Motor, Home Content, Travel, Personal Accident, Cancer, Hospital Income, and a comprehensive suite of commercial insurance offerings.
Joint study shows emerging markets will generate 60% of new online spending over the next decade — most of it from consumers without a credit card
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 October 2026 – Asia is projected to add 702 million middle-class adults between 2026 and 2036, three-quarters of all middle-class growth in emerging markets, according to a new study from World Data Lab (WDL) and EBANX, a global technology company specializing in payment services for emerging markets.
Emerging markets will add USD 8.7T in online spending by 2036
But this new consumer class will not shop the same way developed-market consumers do: by 2036, only 20% of adults in emerging markets will hold a credit card, against 66% in developed markets.
Global online spending is projected to grow from USD 11 trillion in 2026 to USD 25.6 trillion in 2036. Emerging markets add USD 8.7 trillion of that increase (60% of all new online spending), with China (USD +4.7 trillion) and India (USD +1.3 trillion) leading this growth. Indonesia (USD +243 billion), Brazil (USD +249 billion) and Mexico (USD +191 billion) form the next tier.
The categories matter as much as the markets. Online gaming spending in emerging markets grows 14% a year over the decade, the fastest of any category, and SaaS nearly 10%. Emerging markets will generate 76% of global growth in social media spending and 64% in SaaS.
The demographic picture challenges a common assumption. Consumers aged 45 and over account for 51% of emerging markets’ online spending growth through 2036, and spending by those aged 65 and over grows 12% a year, faster than any other age group.
The outlook was discussed during “Navigating Payments: How innovation and fragmentation are changing the game for e-commerce,” a webinar co-hosted by World Data Lab (WDL) and EBANX.
“Over the next ten years, people aged 45 and over will add USD 4.4 trillion in online spending in emerging markets, half of all the growth. Some of them already shop on their phones and will keep doing so as they get older. Others will buy online for the first time in their fifties or sixties. Merchants who build their checkout only for a 25-year-old will miss both groups,” explained Wolfgang Fengler, CEO of WDL.
The study models consumer spending, demographics, and financial access across 184 countries to 2036, drawing on the World Bank’s Global Findex and WDL’s consumer models, combined with EBANX’s experience processing payments for global merchants in emerging markets since 2012.
“If your checkout only takes credit cards, you are competing for one in five adults in emerging markets and conceding the other four”, said Marie-Elise Droga, Chief Revenue Officer of EBANX. “The merchants growing fastest with us didn’t wait for cards to arrive: they added the payment rails their customers already use, and they’re taking new buyers, bigger baskets and recurring revenue that card-only competitors can’t even see.”
834 million new online buyers, 281 million new credit cards
Between 2026 and 2036, the global economy will add 834 million online buyers but only 281 million credit card holders—a ratio of nearly three to one. In emerging markets, two in three new online buyers (67%) will arrive without a credit card. Adults without it already account for 55% of online spending in emerging markets, a share that rises to 90% in India and 93% in Sub-Saharan Africa. Credit cardless adults also represent 52% to 59% of spending in every digital category, from gaming and SaaS to streaming and travel.
Digital payment use is also running ahead of online shopping. Of the 2.6 billion emerging-market adults spending between USD 6 and USD 25 a day, 70% already pay merchants digitally while only 33% buy online, leaving at least 957 million digitally active consumers who are not yet online buyers. Many hold a bank account or mobile wallet but no card that works at an international checkout.
“This is closely tied to the innovation that came out of the financial industry in emerging markets, which developed solutions for an increasingly mobile economy and for the habits of local consumers. Today, we call them local payment methods, or LPMs, and they allowed e-commerce growth to decouple from the credit card, which still has very low penetration in these countries,” said Estelita Hass, head of Market Intelligence at EBANX.
Subscriptions are the next frontier — and India shows why
Recurring categories such as streaming, SaaS and online education will reach USD 2.1 trillion a year in emerging markets by 2036, with USD 1.1 trillion coming from adults without a credit card. In India, 82% of recurring online spending will be cardless. Account-based recurring rails are beginning to close that gap: a global SaaS company saw a 20% uplift in new subscribers after adding UPI at checkout in India, and cybersecurity company Nord Security now generates 28% of its revenue in Brazil through Pix Automático, Brazil’s recurring instant payment, six months after launching it with EBANX.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
ABOUT EBANX
EBANX is the leading technology platform connecting global businesses to the world’s fastest-growing digital markets. Founded in 2012 in Brazil, EBANX was built with a mission to expand access to international digital commerce. Leveraging proprietary technology, deep market expertise, and robust infrastructure, the platform enables global businesses to offer hundreds of local payment methods and streamline cross-border payments across Latin America, Africa, and Asia. With a global footprint, it established a technology and regulatory headquarters in Singapore in 2026. More than just payments, EBANX drives growth, enhances sales, and delivers seamless purchase experiences for businesses and end users alike.
By Emma McDermott ATT, Founder of Global Tax Consulting Dubai’s lack of personal income tax is one of the main attractions for British professionals considering a move to the UAE. Combined with the employment opportunities, lifestyle and relative proximity to the UK, it is easy to understand why so many people are making the move. However, relocating to Dubai does not automatically mean that you stop […]
Production-grade in-app messaging with no credit card required to start, plus an optional Cloud Bonus offering your choice of either 15% off AWS or 30% off Alibaba Cloud
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2026 – Nexconn, a global cloud communications platform, announced the launch of its production-ready Free Chat Plan. Under the new initiative, developers and startups can deploy enterprise-grade chat infrastructure for up to 10,000 monthly active users (MAU) completely free—with full Chat Pro features enabled and no credit card required.
The launch tackles a persistent industry pain point: typical free tiers across the category cap at 100 to 1,000 MAU and restrict apps to sandbox environments—thresholds far too low to validate user retention or viral growth.
“A free tier should empower teams to validate their business model, not just verify that an SDK compiles,” said Will Song, Head of Global Business at Nexconn.
To further extend startup runway, Nexconn also introduced an additional Cloud Bonus: teams that link a payment method can choose between 15% off AWS or 30% off Alibaba Cloud to offset their backend cloud costs.
The offer is open to teams that simply send their first in-app message by December 31, 2026, 11:59 p.m. Singapore Time (SGT, UTC+8), locking in up to 10,000 MAU of Pro chat (valued at $860/month). Developers can claim the plan and view full details at https://www.nexconn.ai/free-chat-api?utm_source=pr.
What the Free Chat Plan Includes
The plan provides comprehensive capabilities across the entire application lifecycle:
Rich Messaging Architecture: Unlimited messages across direct (1-on-1), group, community, and open channels.
Modern Social Interactions: Read receipts, typing indicators, user mentions, unread badges, and cross-platform multi-device synchronization.
Native Push: Built-in multi-channel mobile push gateway included with no add-on fees.
High-Capacity Resource Quotas: Supports up to 500 peak concurrent connections, 10 GB of cloud storage, and 180 days of searchable message history.
No-charge Migration Support: End-to-end data migration support for teams transitioning from Sendbird, Stream, CometChat, PubNub, Agora, or Twilio.
Developer Acceleration: An open-source AI Integration Skill allows developers to generate client SDK code and backend token endpoints via simple text prompts.
The Cloud Bonus: The 10,000 MAU Chat plan remains free and does not require a credit card. Teams may optionally link a payment method to activate the Cloud Bonus—15% off AWS services or 30% off Alibaba Cloud services.
How to Get Started
Sign Up: Create an account in the Nexconn Console.
Build: Integrate the SDK manually or with the open-source AI Skill.
Activate Your Free Plan: Complete enrollment by simply sending at least one message before December 31, 2026, 11:59 p.m. Singapore Time (SGT, UTC+8).
(Optional) Cloud Discounts: Link a payment method to activate your choice of 15% off AWS services or 30% off Alibaba Cloud services.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Nexconn
Nexconn is a global cloud communications platform engineered for developers, high-growth startups, and enterprises building real-time, mission-critical digital experiences.
The company delivers a unified real-time portfolio tailored to global scale:
AICP (AI Communication Platform): High-performance Chat and Call (voice/video) APIs, combined with production-ready, scenario-specific AI Agents (such as Smart Office and Social Marketing). This unified platform allows businesses to seamlessly embed intelligent, context-aware communications into any web or mobile application.
Enterprise & Public Sector Deployments: Carrier-grade private cloud and on-premises solutions engineered for organizations and government bodies requiring strict data residency, privacy, and compliance.
By Jag Mohan Thaken CHANDIGARH: Drug issue has boiled up the political and social atmosphere in the state of Punjab. Seeing the assembly elections on the head, all political parties are trying to get the waves in their own favour and targeting each other for the current deteriorated condition due to root level web of […]
Malaysia claims the inaugural Nations’ Trophy as athletes representing four Southeast Asian nations compete in Bangkok
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 October 2026 – Brazilian athlete Yasmin Yukare, representing Indonesia, and Malaysia’s Saddam Pittli were crowned the inaugural Red Bull Power Race International Champions in Bangkok, while Malaysia claimed the Nations’ Trophy. Yukare and Pittli secured their historic victories with winning times of 8:26 and 7:16, respectively, becoming the first international titleholders in the new competition.
Yasmin Yukare And Saddam Pittli Crowned Inaugural Red Bull Power Race International Champions
The International Final in Bangkok rounded off a world premiere season that began in Kuala Lumpur and moved on to Yangon and Jakarta before reaching the Thai capital for the Thailand National Final on 17 October. The following day, the 12 fastest men and 12 fastest women representing each of the four countries competed in the International Final, with 96 athletes vying for the inaugural titles. Across the four national events held in 2026, Red Bull Power Race attracted participants from 33 different countries and territories, from Brazil to South Korea, highlighting its appeal well beyond the four host nations.
The competition delivered fiercely contested racing throughout the day, including a dramatic photo finish in the men’s semi-finals, where three athletes were separated by just four hundredths of a second.
Red Bull Power Race International_02
Brazilian athlete Yasmin Yukare, representing Indonesia, was crowned the first women’s Red Bull Power Race International Champion after a commanding performance in Bangkok. Having set the pace throughout qualifying and the semi-finals, Yukare delivered her fastest time of the competition in the final, crossing the finish line in 8:26. Malaysia’s Hui Teng Tobee Yip claimed second place in 8:51, narrowly ahead of compatriot Natasha Nazamil, who completed the podium in 8:52.
Malaysia’s Saddam Pittli claimed the inaugural men’s Red Bull Power Race International Championship with a winning time of 7:16, producing his fastest performance of the day in the decisive race. Having finished second in the semi-final standings, Pittli found another level in the championship final, improving his time by more than 21 seconds to secure victory. Indonesia completed the podium, with Damar Prasetyo taking second place in 7:30 and Ghian Herdiyana third in 7:31.
Beyond the individual titles, athletes also competed for national pride in the Nations’ Trophy, earning points for the country they represented based on their finishing positions. Malaysia emerged victorious with the highest combined points total, claiming the inaugural trophy and rounding off a day of intense competition and friendly international rivalry.
Ms Supasita Kraisri, Chief Global Marketing Officer of TCP Group, said: “Red Bull Power Race brings our international sporting spirit to a new generation. Young adults across Asia are choosing more variety in the ways they exercise that fit around busy modern lives, and this format speaks directly to that. Beyond the competition, it’s also about bringing people together, building communities and creating shared experiences through sport. We want to inspire young adults to pursue their own goals and strengthen Red Bull’s connection with their active lifestyles.”
Billed as “The Fastest Race, The Greatest Rush”, Red Bull Power Race is built around familiar bodyweight exercises in a short high-intensity format that requires no specialist exercise equipment. That makes it accessible to anyone with the determination to take it on. Athletes complete four 400m runs separated by three stations of push-ups, sit-ups and squats, with men performing 40 repetitions at each station and women 30.
Yasmin Yukare said: “I still can’t believe I’ve won! The other women from Malaysia, Myanmar and Thailand were so strong, and I knew it wasn’t going to be easy. I just kept pushing and never gave up. The atmosphere was incredible, and hearing my friends cheering me on around the course gave me so much energy. Crossing that finish line was such a special moment. To anyone thinking about trying Red Bull Power Race, don’t be afraid to give it a go. The energy here is amazing, and you can do it!”
The short, high-intensity format leaves little margin for error, with success demanding more than just speed and strength. Athletes must balance explosive effort with smart pacing, knowing when to push and when to conserve energy. With every second counting, strategy and composure can make the difference between winning and losing.
Saddam Pittli said: “Representing Malaysia was my biggest motivation. Every lap, every station, I kept thinking about my country, and that pushed me to give everything I had. To become the first Red Bull Power Race International Champion makes me incredibly happy and proud. I really enjoyed the competition, and I hope my victory encourages more people to give it a try. Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. Just come and experience it!”
Red Bull Power Race International
Official Results: Red Bull Power Race International Final 2026
PARIS, FRANCE – Media OutReach Newswire – 18 October 2026 – At the 2026 Paris Motor Show, Clifford Kang, Board Member and Vice President of SERES Group, announced that AITO plans to officially enter the European market in autumn 2027, marking another major step in its global development. With deep respect for Europe’s automotive heritage, AITO looks forward to collaborating and growing with partners around the world.
In China, AITO has earned the trust of over 1.2 million customers. Globally, in Brand Finance’s Automobiles 100 2026 ranking, AITO ranked among the world’s top 10 luxury automotive brands and was the No.1 Chinese luxury automotive brand by brand value, making it the only Chinese automotive brand.
Driven by its philosophy of “Intelligence Redefining Luxury”, AITO is committed to bringing together traditional luxury and technological luxury to create an elevated intelligent mobility experience.
“AITO stands for ‘Adding Intelligence to Auto’. We believe a vehicle should be a mobile intelligent agent that understands you and responds to your needs. That is why we introduced our brand philosophy, Intelligence Redefining Luxury. It is our interpretation of what New Luxury means for AITO,” said Clifford Kang, Board Member and Vice President of SERES Group. “We come with deep respect for Europe’s automotive heritage. We come to collaborate and grow with partners around the world. And we come with our philosophy: Intelligence Redefining Luxury.”
As AITO strengthens its global presence, it looks forward to working with partners across the value chain to build a healthy automotive ecosystem, foster mutual growth and bring intelligent luxury mobility to more customers around the world.
Hashtag: #AITO
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Facebook is introducing artificial intelligence controls that allow users to tell its recommendation system which subjects they want to see more or less often across Feed and Reels. The new feature, called Your Algorithm, allows people to enter their interests in ordinary language rather than relying solely on their viewing habits, reactions and comments to influence the content appearing on their screens. Meta Platforms announced the rollout […]
KYOTO, JAPAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 October 2026 – Q-Games has announced that it will publish Beyond the Dark: Nightwatch, the upcoming horror game from French developer Atlantis Studio, across Asia, and has released a new trailer. It is a two-player asymmetric co-op horror game built around tension, communication, observation and trust.
Players must combine information from their individual perspectives as they work together to escape a haunted house far from civilization. Communication is essential for survival. By sharing information and coordinating their actions, players must overcome the horrors that await them and find a way out. The game also features Troy Baker, the renowned voice actor known for his roles in The Last of Us and Death Stranding. The Nintendo Store page for Asia is scheduled to go live on Thursday, October 22, with the game launching on Nintendo Switch 2 the same day.
ABOUT THE GAME Beyond the Dark: Nightwatch is a two-player horror experience. One player, the Explorer, enters the House in first person, searching for clues, solving mysteries and trying to escape before Gloam finds them. The other, the Overseer, stays behind the cameras, using surveillance systems, documents, and tactical tools to track what is happening and guide their partner.
The game supports couch co-op, GameShare, Local Network, and Online Play. Using GameShare, two players can play together even if the other console is either a Nintendo Switch 2 or a Nintendo Switch.
GAME FEATURES
A Two-Player Horror Experience: Built exclusively for two players, communication is essential for survival.
Asymmetric Exploration: Combine different perspectives to uncover the House’s secrets and stay alive.
An Oppressive Environment: Explore a claustrophobic house filled with hidden threats.
Communication Drives Escape: Share clear instructions, warn your partner of danger and coordinate actions to escape.
GameShare and Co-op: Play together via local co-op, GameShare, Local Network or online play.
BASIC INFORMATION Title: Beyond the Dark: Nightwatch Developer: Atlantis Studio Publisher: Q-Games Genre: Horror / Asymmetric Co-op Mode: 2 Player (Local Co-op, Couch Co-op, GameShare, Local Network, Online Play) Platforms: Nintendo Switch 2 Price: HKD 138 / TWD 490 / JPY 2,480 / KRW 24,000 / MYR 59 / SGD 21.99 / THB 450 / PHP 799 Discord PressKit
When Abbie Dibbert and Francoise Albrando took over the day-to-day running of Stay® Property Management, the region was in the middle of a conflict. They chose to keep building. “We saw an opportunity to grow, to expand, and to believe even harder in the UAE and its ability to rise within the chaos,” the directors explain. Over the six months following their March takeover, the live portfolio […]
By Nigel Green The single greatest danger to wealth anywhere in the world right now is the colossal pile of money governments have borrowed. Bond markets are flashing warnings last seen during the eurozone crisis, and they’re getting louder by the week. The IMF’s own figures are staggering. Global public debt reached 93.9% of GDP last year and is on course for 100% by 2029, beyond anything […]
Following a dramatic confinement trial with Joe Wicks MBE, psychiatrist warns that trying to forcibly suppress stress may fuel physical burnout
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2026 – For millions of busy Hong Kong professionals, daily stress and anxiety are often internalised as personal weaknesses or frustrating obstacles to career performance. Following World Mental Health Day, Bupa Group’s new global health experiment video series, Health or Hype, challenges this perspective by exploring a counter-intuitive question: What if anxiety is not our enemy, but a biological signal meant to protect us?
Following a dramatic confinement trial with Joe Wicks MBE, psychiatrist warns that trying to forcibly suppress stress may fuel physical burnout
The video series features British fitness coach and best-selling author Joe Wicks MBE taking part in a confinement challenge designed to trigger feelings of stress and anxiety. To demonstrate some of the ways acute anxiety can affect human physiology in real-time, Wicks took part in a monitored challenge inside a purpose-built, pitch-black wooden box. As the door was fastened shut, Wick experienced an immediate physical respond—his heart rate surged, his breathing turned rapid and shallow, and he described a knot and cramping sensation in his stomach.
Psychotherapist Owen O’Kane, who supported Wicks during the challenge, explained that these involuntary physical reactions are primal survival mechanisms. In modern high-pressure environments, however, individuals routinely fall into the trap of trying to suppress, numb, or mentally fight these uncomfortable sensations. O’Kane highlights that attempting to eradicate anxiety may paradoxically reinforce the brain’s perception of threat; instead, learning to acknowledge anxiety without judgment allows the mind to regain emotional equilibrium. In the episode, breathwork specialist Liza Al Sady guides Wicks and international rugby legend Ruby Tui through targeted nasal diaphragmatic breathing, demonstrating how extending exhalations directly stimulates the vagus nerve to calm the nervous system.
To help Hong Kong’s busy professionals find a realistic balance and navigate intense corporate pressure, Dr. Oliver Chan, Specialist in Psychiatry, shares his medical perspective on the brain’s stress response, “Many professionals in Hong Kong view anxiety as a personal failing, trying to force themselves to ‘stop worrying’ through sheer willpower. But from a brain-science perspective, during intense panic or acute anxiety, the brain’s threat-response system can temporarily overpower logical reasoning. Think of anxiety as your body’s internal smoke alarm. When you face enormous stress or overwhelming workloads, this alarm goes off, flooding your body with stress hormones that could impair the functioning of brain regions involved in attention, planning and rational decision-making. Your heart races, your breathing gets shallow, and your body enters survival mode.
The biggest mistake people make is trying to argue with the alarm. If you try to fight, ignore, or feel ashamed of the anxiety, your brain assumes the danger is escalating, making the alarm ring even louder and eventually leading to prolonged psychological distress and fatigue. Instead, we must learn to shut off the alarm physically before we can calm down mentally. Simple breathing techniques, specifically making your out-breath significantly longer than your in-breath, act as a physical brake pedal. It may help shift the body towards a calmer physiological state and reduce the intensity of the stress response. Treating anxiety not as an enemy, but as an internal alert system we can actively manage, is essential for long-term health in a high-pressure city like Hong Kong.”
Your 60-Second Desktop Reset: Calming the Nervous System Instead of trying to fight or suppress the physical feelings of stress, try this simple, clinically backed reset to soothe your nervous system during your workday:
Unclench and Ground: Place both feet flat on the floor, drop your shoulders away from your ears, and consciously unclamp your jaw.
Nasal Diaphragmatic Breath: Inhale slowly through your nose for a count of 3, allowing your abdomen to expand rather than your chest.
Extended Exhale: Slowly exhale through your nose for a count of 5 or 6. Making the exhale visibly longer than the inhale increases parasympathetic activity and may naturally modulate your heart rate
Caring for mental wellbeing is not about eliminating stress entirely. By recognising anxiety as a natural signal and learning simple tools to reset our nervous system, every Hong Kong professional can cultivate sustainable resilience.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Bupa – A health insurance specialist
Established in 1947, Bupa’s purpose is helping people live longer, healthier, happier lives and making a better world. We are an international healthcare company serving over 68 million customers worldwide. With no shareholders, we reinvest profits into providing more and better healthcare for the benefit of current and future customers. Bupa has businesses around the world, principally in Australia, the UK, Spain, Poland, Chile, Hong Kong SAR, India, Türkiye, Brazil, Mexico and New Zealand. We also have associate businesses in Saudi Arabia.
Bupa has been a health insurance specialist in Hong Kong since 1976, offering one-stop solutions across domestic and international health insurance, and healthcare services. Our comprehensive medical insurance schemes are tailored to meet individual needs, and we provide health solutions for companies of all sizes. We also have a team of registered nurses, health management professionals, and doctors who provide various expert healthcare support.
Our healthcare provision arm, Quality HealthCare Medical Services (QHMS), became part of Bupa in October 2013. QHMS offers Western Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine, Diagnostics & Imaging, Physiotherapy, Mental Health and Wellness services via a network of over 1,650 provider service points in Hong Kong.
Building on its basketball partnerships announced in March, Sprite unites three-time MVP and NBA Champion Nikola Jokić with Olympic Gold Medalist and NBA superstar Anthony Edwards to lead a global movement celebrating the continuous evolution of basketball culture.
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 October 2026 – Today, Sprite officially unveils its new global platform, “Never Stop Refreshing the Game,” with the addition of three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokić to its global basketball athlete roster alongside superstar Anthony Edwards.
Sprite is doubling down on its basketball legacy on a global stage. Earlier this year, Sprite announced its return as the NBA’s Official Global Soft Drink.
For decades, Sprite has sat at the intersection of sport, fashion, music, and culture. Since first partnering with the NBA in 1986, Sprite has remained a constant presence in basketball culture, connecting with generations of players and fans through iconic campaigns, unforgettable moments, and partnerships that reflect the sport’s evolution. From neighborhood courts to the game’s biggest stages, Sprite has continued to show up wherever basketball culture moves next.
“Sprite has a history of championing the athletes, creators and communities that shape basketball culture,” said Oana Vlad, Global Brand Vice President of Sprite. “‘Never Stop Refreshing the Game’ is about finding new ways to refresh the game for fans, from the unmistakable refreshment Sprite brings on and off the court to the experiences, stories and moments that make basketball culture so powerful. By spotlighting original voices and game changers, delivering fresh entertainment, and giving fans access to experiences they might not otherwise have, we’re committed to helping move the game forward. Nikola and Ant represent that spirit perfectly.”
Two Icons with the Drive to Keep Refreshing the Game
To ignite its next era in basketball, Sprite is bringing together two of the game’s most dynamic forces. While Nikola Jokić and Anthony Edwards represent distinct paths to greatness, they share a singular instinct: a refusal to settle and a relentless drive to evolve the sport.
Nikola Jokić, freshly named the #1 player for the 2026–27 NBA season in ESPN’s NBA Rank for the third consecutive year*, brings masterclass precision, an unselfish high-IQ playstyle, and massive international reach that bridges fans from North America to Europe and beyond.
Anthony Edwards, Olympic gold medalist and four-time NBA All Star, brings explosive athleticism, clutch shot-making, and an electric charisma that has made him the undeniable face of basketball’s next generation.
“Basketball brings people around the world together,” said three-time NBA MVP Nikola Jokić. “Sprite has been part of the story for decades and I’m excited to partner with them to continue bringing the game to the next generation.”
Anthony Edwardsadds: “From Anta Claus to Obey Your Thirst, Sprite’s been cooking up some of the best campaigns that will live on forever. ‘Never Stop Refreshing the Game’ is no different, reminding every player out there to give it their all and stay true to who they are every time they step on the court.”
These game-changers will star in Sprite’s global campaign. The campaign will roll out worldwide starting now and into 2027. Across the ASEAN & South Pacific region, the platform will reach fans across passionate basketball hubs including the Philippines, Australia, and New Zealand– nations where basketball culture is deeply rooted in everyday life. Over the coming months, fans can expect upcoming global spots starring both Jokić and Edwards.
Bringing Fans Closer to the Game
Off the screen, fans can grab limited-edition NBA and signature Anthony Edwards and Nikola Jokić cans with scannable QR codes that unlock prizes like VIP courtside tickets, official Wilson game balls, and exclusive gear through interactive digital games. In communities worldwide, Sprite is leveling up local hoop culture by restoring neighborhood courts with vibrant “Hoops of Refreshment” murals and bringing live experiences to major events. Plus, fans can bring the energy home with NBA 2K in-game power-ups and special game-day food delivery deals.
Growing Wherever the Game Goes
By expanding its footprint across the NBA Global Games, Sprite is meeting fans where the sport is being redefined. Through immersive experiences and exclusive promotions, the brand will bring fans closer to the game, including at the NBA Mexico City Game 2026, when Nikola Jokić and the Denver Nuggets face the Indiana Pacers, as well as the NBA Manchester and Paris Games in early 2027.
The game is changing, and Sprite is leading the play.
Watch the first campaign film here Jokes Aside. For more information, follow @Sprite on social media.
Hashtag: #Sprite
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About The Coca Cola Company
The Coca‑Cola Company (NYSE: KO) is a total beverage company with products sold in more than 200 countries and territories. Our company’s purpose is to refresh the world and make a difference. We sell multiple billion-dollar brands across several beverage categories worldwide. Our portfolio of sparkling soft drink brands includes Coca‑Cola, Sprite and Fanta. Our water, sports, coffee and tea brands include Dasani, smartwater, vitaminwater, Topo Chico, BODYARMOR, Powerade, Costa, Georgia, Fuze Tea, Gold Peak and Ayataka. Our juice, value-added dairy and plant-based beverage brands include Minute Maid, Simply, innocent, Del Valle, fairlife and Santa Clara. We’re constantly transforming our portfolio, from reducing sugar in our drinks to bringing innovative new products to market. We seek to positively impact people’s lives, communities and the planet through water replenishment, packaging recycling, sustainable sourcing practices and carbon emissions reductions across our value chain. Together with our bottling partners, we employ more than 700,000 people, helping bring economic opportunity to local communities worldwide. Learn more at www.coca-colacompany.com and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and LinkedIn.
British travellers visiting Jeddah, Dammam or most Saudi airports could jeopardise their travel insurance after the UK government expanded its warnings amid missile and drone attacks on the kingdom. The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) now advises against all but essential travel to both cities and every airport in Saudi Arabia except Medina International Airport. The updated guidance, issued on 11 October, remained current on Tuesday. […]
Showcasing Smart Lighting, Innovative Display Technologies and Outdoor Lighting Solutions that Shape the Future of Smart and Sustainable Lighting
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 October 2026 – Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC), the 28thHong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition) and the 11thHong Kong International Outdoor and Tech Light Expo will be held in late October. The Autumn Lighting Fair will take place at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) from 27 to 30 October, while the Outdoor and Tech Light Expo will be held at AsiaWorld-Expo from 26 to 29 October.
Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition)
Renowned as two of the world’s premier lighting trade fairs, this year’s twin lighting fairs will be held under the theme “Beyond Illumination“. Bringing together some 3,000 exhibitors from more than 20 countries and regions, the fairs will showcase a diverse range of innovative lighting products and solutions that blend smart connectivity, healthy living, immersive spatial experiences and sustainability.
Share your bright moments at the twin Autumn Lighting Fairs with #HKLIGHTINGFAIR and @HKTDCLIFESTYLE, and capture your shot at the AI immersive photo experience next to booth GH-D02, Hall of Connected Lighting.
Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition) – HKCEC A highlight zone of the Autumn Lighting Fair, the Hall of Connected Lighting makes a return this year with a line-up of some 70 leading global brands, including local brands Dimon and Viliya; Inventronics and TUYA from Chinese Mainland, as well as international names such as Viso Systems from Denmark; Casambi from Finland; and Signify from the Netherlands, etc. The zone will also feature global major industry alliances, including the Connectivity Standards Alliance, the DALI Alliance, the SILA-EMN Alliance and the Zhaga Consortium, alongside KNX, the global standard for smart building and home automation, which will make its debut at the fair.
Exhibitors will showcase an array of award-winning designs, design aesthetics and lighting solutions featured in landmark projects. Combined with diverse themed scenarios and immersive lighting installations, visitors will gain first-hand experience of the latest smart lighting products and solutions.
Leading lighting brand Signify will collaborate with the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team to present a racing simulator experience that extends the excitement of motorsport beyond the screen into a physical environment through innovative lighting technologies. Two professional racing simulators will allow visitors to experience the thrill of high-speed driving and sharp cornering in a highly immersive setting. Also, Philips Sky professional lighting solutions will be showcased, featuring the light formula, VitaUp and BioUp technologies. VitaUp uses low-dose UVB light to mimic natural sunlight and support natural vitamin D production, while BioUp adjusts lighting to the body’s circadian rhythm, delivering a healthier and more comfortable indoor lighting experience.
Expanding the event’s product scope, the Autumn Lighting Fair will launch the new LED Display Solution Zone to foster the development of a commercial LED display ecosystem. The zone will feature LED video walls, commercial displays, transparent and flexible LED panels, immersive audio-visual systems and integrated display solutions, covering applications ranging from retail environments and corporate presentations to exhibitions, virtual production and major commercial projects.
First-time exhibitor Ledman Hong Kong will present the QS Series IceScreen LED Display, which was deployed at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games. Featuring large-scale 8K display technology, the solution delivers highly realistic and impactful visual experiences. The company will also introduce the LEDHUB Smart Conference Solution, which integrates large-format display, video conferencing and collaboration functions into a single platform. Winner of the 2025 TITAN Innovation Awards Gold Award, the solution has been adopted by leading institutions including The University of Hong Kong, the University of Warwick and Fudan University.
Another fair spotlight, the Hall of Aurora, will feature some 500 renowned brands, presenting lighting fixtures and products that blend creativity, design aesthetics, and superior craftsmanship. Exhibitors include local pioneers Prosperity Group and Profiled Group, major players from Chinese Mainland such as Eaglerise, FSL, LEEDARSON and OPPLE, as well as international brands like Lival from Finland, Cupower from Germany, and Beghelli from Italy.
Hong Kong exhibitor Sunricher will present the award-winning Desktop Wizard, a portable smart home controller that offers a flexible and space-saving alternative to conventional remote controls and fixed wall switches. Featuring modular buttons and multiple control modes, it delivers an intuitive, user-friendly experience tailored to diverse needs. The product has earned international recognition, including the Red Dot Design Award, iF Design Award and German Design Award.
Another highlighted zone, the Residential Lighting, will showcase an array of functional and decorative household lighting products. Chinese Mainland exhibitor Yndlux Lighting will display its self-developed 5272 modular linear light, combining a flexible modular design and intelligent controls to meet diverse lighting and interior design needs.
Other zones include:
The Commercial Lighting zone will showcase a wide range of commercial lighting products designed to meet the diverse needs of buyers across various industries, addressing the distinct lighting needs of retail, office, and other commercial spaces;
The LED Essentials zone will feature a diverse collection of lighting accessories and components;
The LED Lighting zone will display a diverse range of LED light sources, including LED tube, panel light, bulb etc., providing the fundamentals for energy-efficient solutions;
The Testing, Certification & Inspection zone with companies providing professional light quality testing and certification services;
The Trade Service & Publications zone with companies offering market intelligence, industry publications, as well as business support services for the lighting industry.
Hong Kong International Outdoor and Tech Light Expo– Hall 6, 8 @AsiaWorld-Expo) The Hong Kong International Outdoor and Tech Light Expo will be held from 26 to 29 October at AsiaWorld-Expo, showcasing a comprehensive range of outdoor, commercial and industrial lighting products and solutions to drive smart city development. The expo will feature three thematic zones, including: the Smart Pole and Solution zone will showcase technologies and integrated solutions to optimise energy efficiency, improve urban management and elevate the quality of life for city residents; the Landscape and Architectural Lighting zone will present advanced lighting solutions that enrich urban ambience while enhancing safety, functionality and aesthetic appeal across public and commercial spaces; the Outdoor, Industrial and Technical Lighting zone will feature a wide spectrum of professional-grade lighting products designed for outdoor environments, industrial applications and technical settings such as warehouses, factories and infrastructure projects.
The expo will present newly introduced photovoltaic (PV) and energy storage solutions to help cities enhance energy efficiency, alongside lighting applications for smart city development, industrial environments, professional settings, landscape projects and architectural illumination. Among the highlights, Lansine Intelligent (Zhongshan) will present t he LX‑LC01 energy storage power station and foldable solar panel series, providing green power solutions specially designed for off‑grid applications, outdoor camping, emergency backup power, as well as small‑scale and residential energy storage.
A Rich Programme to Stay Ahead of Innovative High-End Design and the Latest Market Trends The twin lighting fairs will collaborate with prestigious international lighting organisations to feature a series of thematic seminars, product launches and networking events. The Innovative Lighting Design Forum will take place on 27 October at the HKCEC under the theme “Treasures of Light: Artistic Brilliance Beyond Exhibitions“. Award-winning lighting designers renowned for their work on museums, exhibitions and art galleries will share the latest market trends through case studies. Featured speakers include Dr Yan Liu, Design Director, China at AT Design & Consulting Co. Ltd., who has contributed to the lighting design of the Louvre Museum in Paris and the Palace Museum in Beijing; Adam Meredith, Lighting Designer at MEGS Lighting from Australia, who led the lighting design projects for the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and M+ in Hong Kong; and Omar Elkerm, Lighting Design Manager (Africa) at Signify, who led the lighting design for several major pyramid illumination projects in Egypt.
Following this forum is “Award-Winning Illumination: Highlights from the IES Illumination Awards“, a new event co-organised with the Illuminating Engineering Society (IES). Winners of one of the industry’s highest honours—the “IES Illumination Awards”—will analyse the artistic and technological developments in different lighting design categories. Featured speakers include Hiroyasu Shoji, Representative and Lighting Designer at Lightdesign Inc., who led the lighting design for the Grand Ring at Expo 2025 Osaka, and Kelly Jones, Principal at Lighting Design Alliance, a Salas O’Brien Company, whose portfolio includes numerous projects for Disney and Universal Studios.
Another debut event, “Circularity in Lighting Design“, will be co-organised with Women in Lighting(WIL) on 28 October. Influential female designers, including Sophie O’Rourke, Principal Lighting Designer at AECOM and Co-Founding Member of the Green Light Alliance, who is working on the ongoing Gilston Park Estate project, a new mixed-use community ; Pavlina Akritas, Founder of Akritas Lighting Design, known for her work on lighting projects for some of the world’s most prestigious luxury brands; Yah Li Toh, Founder and Principal of Light Collab, who designed the lighting for the Singapore Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai; Jinkie de Jesus, Founder of Light Plan Inc., who led the lighting design of Mactan-Cebu International Airport and some of Manila’s most prestigious hotels; and Kael Gillam, Principal Lighting Designer at Buro Happold, who designed the lighting f or Bromley Old Town Hall, will discuss relevant topics in detail.
Another key event, the Connected Lighting Forum, co-organised with the Shanghai Pudong Intelligent Lighting Association (SILA), will be held under the theme “Healing Light for the Future: Illuminating Emotional Well-being“, exploring the development of intelligent and human-centric lighting technologies for psychological wellness and sharing case studies on light healing and therapy.
In addition, numerous exhibitor and buyer activities will be held at AsiaWorld-Expo, including a seminar titled “Smart Tech Integration in Outdoor Lighting” on 27 October, which will bring together experts from the Alliance of Smart Pole Industry and another industry organisation to examine how AI is driving the next generation of smart pole applications.
Providing Buyers with a Seamless Sourcing Journey The events will adopt the EXHIBITION+hybrid model, enhanced by the Click2Match online smart business matching platform, which will be available from 19 October to 6 November. Additionally, the Scan2Match feature in the HKTDC Marketplace App will be accessible onsite for buyers to scan dedicated QR codes from exhibitors to:
Bookmark favorite booths and products
Instantly access detailed product information
View interactive electronic floor plans
Continue conversations with exhibitors after the fair
The seamless experience ensures a smoother, more connected sourcing journey—before, during, and after the fair.
Fair websites
Hong Kong International Lighting Fair (Autumn Edition):
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Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai Police has warned that increasingly convincing artificial intelligence deepfakes could undermine confidence in genuine photographs, videos and recordings, creating new obstacles for criminal investigations and digital security. A study prepared by the force’s Future Foresight Centre says the challenge is expanding beyond identifying fabricated material to establishing that authentic content has not been manipulated. It identifies potential consequences for public safety, information […]
Guided by the Central Passport, LANDMARK invites visitors to experience Central anew— from Louis Vuitton’s global spectacle to cultural, dining and seasonal celebrations.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 October 2026 – LANDMARK today unveils Destination CENTRAL, inviting local residents and international visitors to rediscover the many sides of Central through the collectible Central Passport. The programme celebrates the district’s long-standing role as Hong Kong’s gateway for arrival, exchange and discovery. Inspired by the spirit of travel, Destination CENTRAL connects experiences across Central, bringing together travel-inspired activations in partnership with Hong Kong Tramways and Asia Miles; district-wide dining privileges; a global spectacle by Louis Vuitton; and THE CHATER, an exclusive dining concept presented by LANDMARK.
Your Passport to Central
Created by LANDMARK, the luggage-inspired Central Passport is a collectible guide bringing together experiences both within LANDMARK and across the wider district into a seamless journey. Inside, a curated map is paired with personal stories and recommendations from people who know Central closely—from tram motormen, singers and public figures to athletes, celebrated chefs and bar founders—inviting visitors to uncover the area’s hidden character.
Available from collection points across the district, the Central Passport can be personalised with stamps from eight designated locations. Visitors who collect any three stamps can visit the Destination CENTRAL Redemption Counter on 2/F, LANDMARK ATRIUM to enter a lucky draw and unlock a surprise gift. Lucky winners stand a chance to receive up to 66,000 Asia Miles—equivalent to a round-trip business-class flight to Japan—alongside photobooth experiences, limited-edition keepsakes and dining vouchers. The Central Passport also includes exclusive dining privileges from more than 40 participating partners, including Lan Kwai Fong and The Murray.
Louis Vuitton at LANDMARK
Following iconic presentations on the Champs-Élysées in Paris, 57th Street in New York and ‘The Louis’ in Shanghai, Louis Vuitton brings the latest chapter of its global series to Hong Kong. Unveiling soon, the Maison will present a monumental mega-art installation at LANDMARK, reimagining its enduring “Spirit of Travel”. Complemented by the pop-up store currently at LANDMARK ATRIUM and the upcoming dedicated Basement Brand Exhibition , the experience offers a captivating glimpse into the world of Louis Vuitton—setting the stage for the highly anticipated Louis Vuitton Maison at LANDMARK.
Transit Through Central’s Changing Landscape
The travel narrative continues with the LANDMARK Tram Station and Heritage Route, created in partnership with Hong Kong Tramways. Together, they offer an interactive look at Central’s transport heritage and evolving urban landscape—from its early harbourfront and trading past to today’s connected city centre. The LANDMARK Tram Station recreates one of the city’s first-generation trams, fitted with authentic archive pieces from Hong Kong Tramways, including a traditional ticket punch, a coin box, driving console and “Dick, Kerr” controller.
A First Class Stop for Dining and Views
Taking the travel theme into hospitality, LANDMARK presents THE CHATER, an exclusive dining concept opening on 6 October, featuring an all-day menu curated by Mandarin Oriental, Hong Kong. Inspired by the elegance and anticipation of a grand station lounge, the new venue brings together Hong Kong and international flavours, with highlights including bubble tea and gourmet quick bites, alongside Pierre Hermé macarons and gelato set to be launched later in the season. The experience will extend to Platform 1889 on 3/F, a first-class railway carriage-inspired feature within THE CHATER’s terrace. Named for the year Sir Paul Chater co-founded Hongkong Land, Platform 1889 pays tribute to a defining moment in Central’s history while offering a prime view of Louis Vuitton’s monumental mega-art installation and the Central skyline.
Halloween Takes Over Central
From 17 to 31 October, Hongkong Land, supported by the Hong Kong Tourism Board and district partners, presents Halloween in Central—a heritage-led celebration that transforms Central’s iconic streetscape into a citywide Halloween playground.
At Statue Square Gardens, South, four large-scale installations set a striking scene: I Am Watching You, a giant eyeball rising over the fountain; The Awakening, a monumental gateway; the photo-ready Coffin Throne; and The Jail, a haunted reimagining of the pavilion.
On Chater Road, the programme begins with Boo-st Your Mood – Pickleball Day in partnership with Pick & Match on 17 October, a wellness-focused afternoon of active fun. This is followed by OPEN by HE.R – Halloween in Central Kick-Off Party on 18 October, bringing live music and high-energy celebrations to the street. Monster Mash Fest – Family Day arrives on 24 October with costumes, face painting, themed bouncy-castle sessions, performances and Halloween treats, before Halloween Day Unleashed closes the programme on 31 October, featuring cosplay, roving characters, themed performances and late-night festivities. Full details are available at https://www.halloweenincentral.com/
“As a key stakeholder deeply rooted in Central, Hongkong Land is delighted to bring Destination CENTRAL to life alongside our district partners, inviting the public to discover the extraordinary charm of Central anew,” said Olivia Luk, General Manager, Marketing, Hong Kong Central, Hongkong Land Limited. “Together with a rich programme of dining privileges and seasonal celebrations, we hope everyone—from daily office workers and local residents to visitors—can shape their own memorable story of Central.”
Exclusive Rewards and Privileges
Destination CENTRAL brings added benefits to every qualifying LANDMARK visit with HSBC-exclusive offers for BESPOKE members. From 28 September to 18 November 2026, eligible BESPOKE members paying with an HSBC Privé Mastercard® or HSBC Premier Mastercard® can receive up to HK$3,000 in BESPOKE Bonus Reward Vouchers, up to 135,000 Bonus BESPOKE Points, and Complimentary Beverage Passes to Platform 1889 at THE CHATER upon registration of cumulative same-day eligible spending.
Terms and conditions apply. For full programme and promotional details, including specific Central Passport mechanisms, please visit https://destinationcentral.hk.
@landmarkhk #LANDMARKHK #DestinationCENTRAL
APPENDIX
Please visit the Destination CENTRAL website at https://destinationcentral.hk for the latest programme details, terms and conditions.
Central Passport Collection & Reward Details (28 September – 18 November 2026)
Collection Points
Stamp Station Checkpoints
Over 20 Collection Points across Central, including:
Destination CENTRAL Stamping Stations
Destination CENTRAL Redemption Counter (2/F, LANDMARK ATRIUM)
Destination CENTRAL Photobooth (3/F, LANDMARK ATRIUM)
LANDMARK Concierges
Hongkong Land Office Lobby Concierges
The Plaza LKF Lobby (21 D’Aguilar Street, Central)
HSBC Main Building (LG/F, 1 Queen’s Road Central — Until 7 October)
Please refer to the website for the complete list of collection points.
Eight Designated Checkpoints Across Central
Louis Vuitton Pop-up Store (G/F, LANDMARK ATRIUM — Until 29 October)
Central MTR Exit (B/F, Near LANDMARK)
The LANDMARK Tram Station (West Bridge, 2/F LANDMARK ATRIUM)
THE CHATER (2/F, LANDMARK CHATER)
BaseHall 01 (LG/F, Jardine House)
Frenchies (1/F, LANDMARK PRINCE’S)
HSBC Main Building (LG/F, 1 Queen’s Road Central — Until 7 October)
The Plaza LKF Lobby (21 D’Aguilar Street, Central)
Other Destination CENTRAL Activities At A Glance
Experiences & Highlights
Dates
Locations
Inside LANDMARK
Destination CENTRAL Redemption Counter
28 September 2026 – 28 February 2027
2/F LANDMARK ATRIUM
The LANDMARK Tram Station & The Heritage Route
28 September 2026 – 18 November 2026
West Bridge, 2/F LANDMARK ATRIUM
Destination CENTRAL Photo Booth
28 September 2026 – 28 February 2027
3/F Edinburgh Tower
THE CHATER
From 6 October onwards
2/F LANDMARK CHATER
Platform 1889
Late October
2/F LANDMARK CHATER
Louis Vuitton At LANDMARK
Louis Vuitton Pop-up Store
11 September – 29 October
G/F LANDMARK ATRIUM
Louis Vuitton Mega Art Installation
Late October
G/F LANDMARK ATRIUM
Louis Vuitton Basement Exhibition
Late October
B/F LANDMARK ATRIUM
Halloween In Central
Central Halloween Takeover
17 October – 31 October
Statue Square Gardens, South
Boo-st Your Mood – Pickleball Day
17 October 2:00pm – 6:00pm
Chater Road
OPEN By HE.R – Halloween In Central Kick-off Party
18 October 3:00pm – 10:00pm
Chater Road
Monster Mash Fest – Family Day
24 October 12:00pm – 9:00pm
Chater Road
Halloween Night Unleashed
31 October – 1 November
2:00pm – 1:00am
Chater Road
Destination CENTRAL Redemption Gifts
66,000 Asia Miles—equivalent to one Cathay Pacific Business Class round-trip ticket to Japan*
26,000 Asia Miles—equivalent to one Cathay Pacific Economy Class round-trip ticket to Japan*
Destination CENTRAL Tram Plush Charm
Destination CENTRAL Magnet
Destination CENTRAL Photobooth Experience
Destination CENTRAL Mini Camera
Ami Signature Beef Sando
BaseHall HK$50 Gift Certificate
THE CHATER HK$50 Gift Certificate
*Based on Cathay Flight Awards – Standard Awards as of 1 September 2026. Terms and conditions apply.
Hashtag: #LANDMARKHK
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About LANDMARK
LANDMARK represents the epitome of top-tier luxury shopping and lifestyle experiences. Drawing from a rich heritage which began in 1904 – LANDMARK today is the luxury shopping destination of Hongkong Land’s Central portfolio including 4 iconic connected buildings, LANDMARK ATRIUM, LANDMARK ALEXANDRA, LANDMARK CHATER and LANDMARK PRINCE’S. LANDMARK offers approximately 208 of the finest stores and restaurants, all seamlessly linked by pedestrian bridges. From high fashion and accessories to watches and jewellery, from luxury living to beauty and grooming, from international cuisine to authentic gourmet dining, LANDMARK brings the ultimate shopping experience to the discerning customer.
About Hongkong Land
Hongkong Land is a major listed property investment, management and development group. The Group focuses on developing, owning and managing ultra-premium mixed-use real estate in Asian gateway cities, featuring Grade A office, luxury retail, residential and hospitality products. Its mixed-use real estate footprint spans more than 850,000 sq. m., with flagship projects in Hong Kong, Singapore and Shanghai. Its properties hold industry leading green building certifications and attract the world’s foremost companies and luxury brands. The Group’s Hong Kong Central portfolio represents some 450,000 sq. m. of prime property. The Group has a further 165,000 sq. m. of prestigious office space in Singapore mainly held through joint ventures and five retail centres on the Chinese mainland, including a luxury retail centre at Wangfujing in Beijing. In Shanghai, the Group owns a 43% interest in a 1.1 million sq. m. mixed-use project in West Bund, which is due to be completed in 2028. Hongkong Land Holdings Limited is incorporated in Bermuda and has a primary listing on the London Stock Exchange, with secondary listings in Bermuda and Singapore. Hongkong Land is a member of the Jardine Matheson Group.
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