Category: Asia

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Vinhomes Green Paradise Launches Global Smart City Certification Project

Source: Media Outreach

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 March 2026 – Vinhomes Green Paradise – Can Gio has officially launched its Smart City Certification Project in collaboration with Korea Management Association Consulting (KMAC), the World Council on City Data (WCCD), and the Standardized Urban Metrics (SUM) initiative. Through this initiative, Vinhomes Green Paradise aims to become the first internationally certified smart city in Vietnam, thereby establishing new global standards for sustainable and intelligent urban development.

Vinhomes Green Paradise features an exceptional collection of world-class amenities, setting a new standard of living for a future-ready urban development.

The partnership is designed to support the mega development in achieving the WCCD/SUM Custom ISO 37122 Smart City Certification. This certification is based on a customized indicators framework derived from the internationally recognized ISO 37122 indicators, tailored specifically for greenfield development projects and urban areas.

Under the partnership, KMAC will provide strategic consulting and technical advisory services to align the city’s development with the ISO 37122 indicators across key domains such as mobility, energy, environment, safety, and digital infrastructure.

The WCCD and SUM, headquartered in Toronto, Canada, is preparing a new customized indicators framework for greenfield development, based on the strategic smart city goals in the Vinhomes Green Paradise development. The WCCD/SUM teams, will oversee the assessment and smart city certification process, ensuring compliance with the ISO international standards and best practices.

The consortium agreed on a roadmap to deliver an Interim Certification within 2026, paving the way for full certification in subsequent phases.

“This project symbolizes a landmark collaboration between Vietnam and Korea in advancing global smart city standards,” said Mr. Chulse Oh, Head of AX Group at KMAC. “By combining Vinhomes’ visionary urban development with KMAC’s consulting expertise and WCCD/SUM’s global certification framework, VinhomesGreen Paradise will become a model for data-driven governance, sustainability, and smart innovation.”

“Vietnam is emerging as one of the most promising leaders in smart and sustainable city development. The Vinhomes Green Paradise is a remarkable new development in Vietnam that deserves global recognition,” said Dr. Patricia McCarney, President & CEO of the World Council on City Data (WCCD) and Director of SUM. “We are honored to partner with Vinhomes and KMAC to ensure that Vinhomes Green Paradise achieves global recognition through our WCCD/SUM ISO 37122 Custom Certification.”

Vinhomes Green Paradise benefits from a rare geographical setting, surrounded by the Can Gio Sea and the UNESCO-recognized Can Gio Mangrove Biosphere Reserve spanning over 75,000 hectares. The project features a 121-kilometer coastline, a total scale of 2,870 hectares, and a construction density of only 16%. It pioneers an upgraded ESG++ model, structured around five pillars: Environment, Social, Governance, Regeneration, and Climate Adaptation.

Upon full operation, the entire urban management system will be comprehensively greened with the following objectives: 100% clean electricity sourced from offshore wind farms, solar energy systems, and battery storage; 100% net-zero emission transportation, including electric cars, electric scooters, electric buses, electric bicycles, electric boats, and a high-speed railway system directly connecting to central Ho Chi Minh City.

In addition to strict compliance with environmental protection standards, Vinhomes Green Paradise places strong emphasis on biodiversity conservation and ecosystem regeneration throughout the development process, aligned with Ho Chi Minh City’s long-term climate adaptation strategy. A Forest Regeneration and Climate Adaptation Fund has been established to support research, restoration, and long-term resilience initiatives, with a core focus on mangrove restoration in Can Gio to establish 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, reinforcing its global recognition as a benchmark model for sustainable, AI-ready, and data-driven urban innovation.

Hashtag: #Vinhomes

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/04/vinhomes-green-paradise-launches-global-smart-city-certification-project/

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Shopee Bazar Hebat Raya Reflects the Rise of Content-Led Shopping

Source: Media Outreach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 March 2026 – Across major sale periods, Malaysians are increasingly turning to content-led shopping to discover products and secure deals. During the Raya Bersama Shopee sale in 2025, shoppers tuned in to Shopee Live for real-time demonstrations and livestream-exclusive drops, generating over 1 billion views and driving more than 132 billion items sold via livestream. Over 67 billion vouchers were also claimed as households stacked brand and platform deals alongside Free Shipping to stretch festive budgets.

Shopee Bazar Hebat Raya

With Raya approaching once again, content-led shopping continues to influence how homes are refreshed, gifts are selected and outfits are planned. Running from now until 25 March, Shopee Bazar Hebat Raya taps into this shopping trend with creator-driven fashion inspirations and 50% Off Shopee Live vouchers for the season.

Discover Raya Fashion Trends with #GetReadyWithShopee

Raya styling now unfolds on-screen, where demos and virtual consultations inspire shoppers to decide their looks before adding to cart. Every Friday 12PM to 2PM, alongside additional sessions on key campaign dates, #GRWS Raya Fashion Hacks on Shopee Live features popular fashion creators Farah Deluna, Sharifah Rose, and Qisthena breaking down trendy Raya looks and sharing styling tips – from colour pairing to tudung techniques – for chic festive outfits. Featured pieces can be secured instantly with upsized 50% Off Shopee Live vouchers, stackable with brand deals.

Fans of top local labels such as Adnaa, Siti Khadijah, and Haera HQ can also shop their latest collections through Shopee’s Raya Best Sellers and New Arrivals, restocked daily at 50% Off. Meanwhile, Shopee’s Super Brand Day live sessions on weekends, 1PM to 2PM will highlight labels such as Naelofar and My Ballerine, featuring exclusive drops and additional vouchers.

For even greater savings, shoppers can score midday RM10 Fashion & Beauty Flash Deals from 12PM to 2PM on key campaign dates not to be missed:

  • 3 March: Jualan Persiapan Raya
  • 10 March: Jualan Istimewa Raya
  • 15 March: Jualan Hebat Raya
  • 25 March: Jualan Akhir Raya

Plan Every Raya Open House with Shopee Live

As households finalise their open house checklists, Shopee Live becomes a touchpoint for festive inspiration. Streaming daily at 12PM and 8PM, hosts spotlight Shopee Lagi Murah essentials across groceries, Muslim fashion, health and beauty, and electronics — featuring brands such as ZUS Coffee, Wardah, and PerySmith.

Livestream purchases unlock Daily 50% Off Shopee Live vouchers, on top of Shopee Lagi Murah deals and RM10 Knockout Deals from selected brands like Haier, Dreame and Gintell — so shoppers can stack their Shopee Live vouchers and save even more, with Free Shipping No Minimum Spend and Shopee Coins. For larger purchases, SPayLater’s reduced 12-month interest fee offers added flexibility when managing festive budgets.

Those hoping to perfect their Raya dishes and walk away with rewards can tune in to Khairul Aming on Shopee Live on 3 March at 5PM, where he shares his fan-favourite sambal and dendeng recipes alongside host Shopee’s Exclusive Sampul Raya Giveaway. Later that evening at 8.30PM, Shopee Brand Ambassadors Mimi Fly and Hael Husaini will take the spotlight in a special Raya livestream, featuring an exclusive interview and interactive game segment as they share how they’re celebrating the season.

Shopee Bazar Hebat Raya

Get inspired for every Raya moment and enjoy 50% Off Raya Fashion Trends, daily 50% Off Shopee Live vouchers as well as Free Shipping No Minimum Spend – all in one place at Shopee Bazar Hebat Raya. Discover more at: https://shopee.com.my/m/raya-sale

Hashtag: #Shopee

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/shopee-bazar-hebat-raya-reflects-the-rise-of-content-led-shopping/

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VinFast Structures Its Automotive Portfolio into Three Strategic Brand Lines, Unveils Two New Ultra-Luxury Models

Source: Media Outreach

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 March 2026 –VinFast announced the completion of its strategic structuring into three automotive brand linesand officially unveiled two new flagship ultra-luxury models: the Lac Hong 800S and the Lac Hong 900S. The two vehicles join the Lac Hong line – VinFast’s ultra-luxury marque – alongside its established VF mass-market passenger vehicle range and Green commercial mobility brand.

Lac Hong 900S

Under this clearly defined brand structure, Lac Hong represents the pinnacle of ultra-luxury, conceived to honor national pride and currently comprising the 900 LX, 900S and 800S models. The VF line encompasses a comprehensive portfolio of mass-market passenger EVs across segments, from VF 3 to VF 9, including the seven-seat VF MPV 7. Meanwhile, the Green brand is purpose-developed for commercial and service mobility solutions, featuring models such as Limo Green, Herio Green, Nerio Green and Minio Green.

Alongside the structured and clearly defined development of its three strategic brand lines, VinFast has officially unveiled two new ultra-luxury models, the Lac Hong 800S and 900S. These additions expand the Lac Hong ultra-luxury collection, complementing the flagship 900 LX (including a world-leading advanced armored version) introduced in 2025.

Inspired by Vietnam’s cultural heritage and embodying the courage, intellect and stature of the nation, the new models deliver design and craftsmanship on par with the world’s most prestigious ultra-luxury vehicles. The Lac Hong 800S projects a bold, powerful and refined aesthetic, while the Lac Hong 900S reflects timeless, classical values expressed through enduring elegance.

Both models share a cohesive, brand-specific design language enriched with symbolic detailing and premium materials. The grille features straight vertical slats inspired by the resilience of Vietnamese bamboo, while the wing-shaped emblem evokes the Lac bird in ascent. Decorative motifs derived from the Dong Son bronze drum and terraced rice fields are thoughtfully integrated and intentionally repeated across exterior and interior elements, celebrating cultural heritage and national pride. Notably, the “Lac Hong” wordmark is crafted in a calligraphic style and rendered in genuine gold-plated alloy, creating a distinctive and sophisticated brand signature.

Lac Hong 800S

Inside the cabin, the Lac Hong 800S and 900S are meticulously appointed with top-tier materials including Nappa leather, rare woods and refined gold-plated accents.

Both vehicles integrate advanced intelligent technologies and comprehensive safety systems, complemented by ultra-luxury amenities such as zero-gravity executive seating, automatic power-assisted doors and premium entertainment systems from globally renowned brands. The Lac Hong 900S further enhances exclusivity with a privacy partition separating the cockpit and rear cabin, a starlight headliner, a large-format projection entertainment system and a foldable executive workstation for second-row occupants. Together, these features transform each vehicle into a sophisticated mobile environment for travel, productivity and immersive leisure.

In terms of performance, both models are equipped with an all-new fully active suspension system engineered to deliver exceptional ride comfort and dynamic stability. They can be configured with a tri-motor powertrain comprising one front motor and two rear motors, generating a combined output of up to 460 kW and ensuring commanding performance aligned with their ultra-luxury positioning.

The Lac Hong 800S and 900S are scheduled for commercial launch in 2027.

Ms. Duong Thi Thu Trang, Deputy CEO of Global Automotives at VinFast, stated: “Following a period of accelerated growth – achieving the No.1 position in Vietnam and establishing our presence in key regional markets – the completion of our three-brand structure lays the foundation for our next phase of development: structured, professional and breakthrough-driven. The Lac Hong 800S and 900S stand as further proof of VinFast’s technological mastery, product development capability and advanced manufacturing expertise. We believe products created by Vietnamese intellect, craftsmanship and resilience not only inspire national pride but also convey a powerful message about Vietnam’s cultural heritage and technological stature in this new era of global advancement.”

To date, VinFast has developed and introduced more than 15 electric vehicle models and has maintained an undisputed leadership position in Vietnam for the past 16 consecutive months. In 2025 alone, the Company set a national sales record with 175,099 vehicles delivered in Vietnam, further solidifying its status as the country’s most beloved automotive brand./.

Hashtag: #VinFast

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/vinfast-structures-its-automotive-portfolio-into-three-strategic-brand-lines-unveils-two-new-ultra-luxury-models/

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New Zealander in Abu Dhabi: ‘It’s a little bit hairy, but so far, so good’

Source: Radio New Zealand

A plume of smoke rises from the Zayed Port following a reported Iranian strike in Abu Dhabi. AFP / RYAN LIM

A New Zealander living very near a military base in the Middle East which is critical to the US says he feels safe enough for the moment – but his family has an overland evacuation plan just in case.

The US State Department today issued a “depart now” warning to Americans living in more than a dozen locations in the Middle East.

A number of Arab states that host strategic American assets have been targeted by Iran in the wake of the US-Israel lead attack against the Islamic republic.

Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait and Saudi Arabia have all been hit.

Just outside the UAE capital of Abu Dhabi is a military base that hosts US troops that has reportedly been a target of retaliatory strikes.

Jordon Buchanan, his wife and two young children moved to Abu Dhabi about 10 months ago to expand his construction recruitment business, and now find themselves in a conflict zone.

Buchanan told Checkpoint that the family was woken up about 2.30am this morning by some loud shockwaves, but the defence system in the area was very good.

“It’s a little bit hairy, being out of your control. But so far, so good, they seem to be intercepting everything, pretty much.”

He said the blasts started on Saturday, but Monday was fairly quiet.

“We heard one sound in the morning, but then nothing, and people were going about their business. The government has basically said ‘continue on as normal’, the public and private sector have been told to stay at home and work for the next three days.”

He said while it currently felt very safe, there is a contingency plan to drive to Oman – about two hours away – if they need to get out of the region.

“There is a big group of New Zealanders and Australians that live in our local community and we’re just going to go in a big convoy together if things start to get more hairy, but for now, no-one I know has actually left the country or tried to escape.”

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/new-zealander-in-abu-dhabi-its-a-little-bit-hairy-but-so-far-so-good/

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‘I miss Jock everyday’: Family of man killed while hunting left facing ‘lifetime of hell’

Source: Radio New Zealand

Jock Davis. Facebook

The family of a young man shot and killed by a hunter on Stewart Island last year say the hunter’s failure to identify his target has left them facing a “lifetime of hell”.

Ashburton builder Paul William John Stevens, 39, has avoided jail time and instead been sentenced to five months’ home detention for shooting Jock Davies, 21, last July.

He had earlier pleaded guilty to a charge of careless use of a firearm causing death.

At the Invercargill District Court on Tuesday, Judge Russell Walker ordered Stevens to make $20,000 in reparation payments, split equally between a scholarship in Jock Davies’ name for West Otago students and a New Zealand Deerstalkers Association hunter safety course.

Davies’ mother Sarah Davies told the court she never anticipated her son, who was a cancer survivor, would not return from the week-long much-anticipated hunting trip with his father and brothers.

“I miss Jock every day, I miss the twinkle in his eye, his naughty sense of humour. I miss his laughter, the way he used to light up a room. I miss his resilience, his kindness and I miss him leaving the lights on. Jock was one special human,” she said.

Davies’ oldest brother George Davies told Stevens that he had failed as a firearms licence-holder and the family was facing “lifelong effects” as a result.

He spoke of the trauma of seeing his brother after the shooting.

“The impact of having to carry my dead brother up the hill to rescuers is something I will have to live with forever, it’s something no-one should have to do. It was meant to be a trip of a lifetime which turned into a lifetime of hell,” he said.

Davies’ brother Tom Davies described the eight months since the death as a “living nightmare”.

“I’ve found myself in a dark hole where I didn’t know what was right or wrong anymore. It has been a battle to leave the house some days,” he said.

Paul William John Stevens in court. RNZ / Katie Todd

Jock Davies had been intending to join him in Christchurch at teachers’ college and it left a “huge ache” in his heart and soul to know that would not happen, he said.

“I’m trying my absolute hardest to be there for my family as we navigate a new way of life,” he said.

Davies’ father Peter Davies said his son had touched many lives, with his funeral attended by more than 1000 people.

“As a dad there should have been so many more proud moments, but now there’s only memories,” he said.

Stevens sat quietly, crying, as the victim impact statements were read to the court.

His lawyer Grant Fletcher told the court that Stevens, a father of two, could not possibly regret his actions more.

“He would do anything to make it right but obviously he can’t,” he said.

“He’s offered his most heartfelt, most sincere, most genuine remorse and regret.”

Reading from a summary of facts, Judge Walker said Stevens and Davies were part of the same group of eight people on the week-long trip, hunting in the South Lords River block.

The group split up on the morning of 6 July and Davies was dropped off from a dinghy, while Stevens and another associate went in the opposite direction to hunt.

Stevens told police the terrain was “gnarly and hard-going,” he said.

“You said you were not used to hunting in such thick and challenging bush.”

Stevens heard a shuffling noise 20 metres away and saw a “dark shadowy image”, he said.

“Confident it was a deer and not wanting to miss the opportunity, you chambered a round in your rifle and fired a single telescopically-aimed shot,” he said.

“You aimed for what you believed was the neck area of the deer.”

A rescue helicopter was dispatched at about 11am but when it arrived two hours later Davies was dead, he said.

Judge Walker found Stevens’ actions to show a “medium-to-high level of carelessness”.

Stevens “would and should have been well aware of the dangers of hunting” but did not attempt to sight the deer with his own eyes, he said.

“The terrain was challenging for you to the extent that you discussed turning back. You were clearly aware that others would have been in the area,” he said.

He found Stevens’ remorse to be genuine and said Davies’ death would have a life-long impact.

“I accept the mental health impact that this has had and will continue to have upon you. It is rightly described as profound,” he said.

From a starting point of 18 months’ imprisonment, Walker deducted eight months for mitigating factors and converted the resulting 10 months’ imprisonment into five months’ home detention.

He also ordered the forfeiture of Stevens’ rifle and ammunition.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/i-miss-jock-everyday-family-of-man-killed-while-hunting-left-facing-lifetime-of-hell/

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AgileAsia and SMU Academy Establish Partnership to Deliver Applied Sustainability Programmes in Singapore

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 March 2026 – AgileAsia has recently entered into a lifelong learning partnership with SMU Academy to deliver practitioner-led sustainability and ESG programmes, hosted by SMU Academy.

As part of this partnership, AgileAsia will contribute its deep industry expertise in ESG strategy, sustainability transformation, and organisational change. At the same time, SMU Academy will bring its applied learning framework and established professional training infrastructure. By combining industry-grounded insight with academic rigour, the collaboration will deliver sustainability-focused programmes that equip organisations and working professionals with structured, credible pathways to develop real-world sustainability capabilities.

Delivering Sustainability Education Through SMU Academy
AgileAsia’s industry specialists and the academic leadership of SMU Academy co-develop certified sustainability courses. AgileAsia provides sustainability professionals with hands-on industry experience as trainers, while SMU Academy serves as the academic host and programme platform. This integrated model allows participants to gain applied industry insight within a recognised university-backed learning environment.

The collaboration is structured to help organisations move beyond sustainability intent towards practical execution. Programme content emphasises equipping professionals with practical skills that respond to climate risk, ESG reporting requirements, regulatory awareness, and the operational realities of cross-functional organisational change.

This approach responds to growing demand from organisations seeking structured, SkillsFuture-supported sustainability training that is both implementation-focused and academically grounded.

Responding to Industry and Regulatory Needs
The partnership was shaped by a convergence of industry demand, evolving regulatory expectations, and increasing client need for formal ESG upskilling. Organisations across sectors are navigating sustainability disclosure requirements, decarbonisation targets, and stakeholder scrutiny, while often lacking the internal capability to translate strategy into action.

“SMU Academy was a natural academic partner for us due to its strong emphasis on applied learning, sustainability thought leadership, and close engagement with industry and government stakeholders,” said Sharan Mangalore, CEO of AgileAsia. “Its focus on professional education aligns closely with our delivery philosophy, making this lifelong learning partnership a strong strategic fit for advancing practical sustainability capability-building.”

Programmes Hosted Under the Partnership
The collaboration has launched two certification programmes hosted by SMU Academy: the Sustainability Project Management and the Certified Climate Resilient Officer (CRO) programme. Both of these sustainability management courses are SkillsFuture-supported and aligned with SkillsFuture Singapore (SSG) frameworks.

The Sustainability Project Management course addresses common execution gaps faced by organisations, equipping professionals with structured project governance, stakeholder management, and delivery approaches tailored to ESG initiatives. The CRO programme, on the other hand, focuses on building practical capability in climate risk assessment, resilience planning, and organisational adaptation to climate-related disruption.

Across both programmes, participants engage with applied case studies, practical tools, and methodologies that can be directly contextualised to their organisations.

Audience and Organisational Impact
This partnership builds on AgileAsia’s experience in enterprise transformation and leadership development, translating sustainability principles into structured execution frameworks that address real organisational challenges.

What’s Next for the Partnership
As a long-term collaboration, it reflects a shared commitment to developing future-ready sustainability professionals through applied, university-hosted education pathways.

Organisations and professionals seeking to strengthen sustainability and ESG execution capabilities can explore AgileAsia’s upcoming programmes or browse SMU Academy’s professional course offerings.

Hashtag: #AgileAsia, #sustainability

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/agileasia-and-smu-academy-establish-partnership-to-deliver-applied-sustainability-programmes-in-singapore/

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Vietnam’s MIK Group enlists three global firms for The Magnolia luxury Housing project

Source: Media Outreach

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 March 2026 – Driven by growing affluence and a more discerning clientele, the Vietnamese real estate landscape is shifting toward a new paradigm of luxury. MIK Group’s The Magnolia project represents one of the most deliberate efforts in this transition, underscored by a strategic alliance with three international firms: design architect Benoy, interior designer Studio HBA, and construction manager Turner International. This partnership, built around a unified long-term vision, signals a move beyond cosmetic luxury toward an integrated development framework.

The Magnolia, developed under MIK Group’s M Series platform, integrates spatial discipline, privacy and long-term quality into its architectural framework. Photo courtesy of MIK

Raising the standard of luxury development

For years, Vietnam’s high-end residential market has been driven by ambition. Yet many projects have remained focused on premium materials and eye-catching architecture, without fully meeting deeper international benchmarks in long-term livability, operational consistency and disciplined execution.

Against that backdrop, a growing group of developers has begun adopting a more globally integrated model – prioritising process, partnerships and standards over visual spectacle. MIK Group stands among the notable names within this shift.

Founded in 2014, MIK Group has steadily established itself as one of Vietnam’s leading real estate developers. Guided by its vision of ‘creating prosperous living communities’, the company has developed a diverse portfolio spanning urban residential and high-end resort properties, including The Matrix One, Imperia Signature Co Loa, Imperia Sky Garden, Imperia Garden, Imperia Smart City, Mövenpick Resort Waverly Phu Quoc, Sol by Meliá Phu Quoc and Crowne Plaza Phu Quoc Starbay etc.

Its Imperia line, in particular, has maintained strong and consistent demand over many years, providing a stable foundation for the company’s move into a higher segment.

Building on that base, MIK Group introduced the M Series as a structured luxury platform.

Nguyen Dung Minh, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of MIK Group, said: “Today’s luxury buyers are not simply looking for square meters. They are seeking depth, refinement and privacy. Location and amenities matter, but lifestyle matters more.”

The M Series therefore represents not just an expansion into a higher tier, but an elevation of development standards – from site selection and density planning to design philosophy, construction discipline and long-term operational management.

Representatives of MIK Group working with international partners during the development of The Magnolia. Photo courtesy of MIK

Global partnerships: aligning vision, design and execution

To translate these standards into reality, MIK Group partnered with three international firms: Benoy for architecture and master planning, Studio HBA for interior design, and Turner International for construction and project management. The collaboration reflects not only technical capability but a shared long-term development philosophy.

Benoy, ranked among the world’s top 50 design firms, is known for shaping large-scale developments with strong identity, including The 18 Cross in Singapore, The Mural in Dubai and Lotte Mall West Lake in Hanoi. For The Magnolia, Benoy approached the project through spatial discipline and environmental rhythm rather than architectural spectacle.

According to Azaria Lee, Project Director at Benoy, what distinguished MIK Group was its clarity of intent from the outset.

“We quickly understood that this was not a project seeking immediate visual impact,” Lee said.

“MIK Group spoke about rhythm of life, privacy and the feeling of ‘coming home.’ That created a very clear foundation for architectural thinking.”

When surveying the site in Long Bien, the design team noted a perceptible transition from central Hanoi’s intensity to a calmer spatial atmosphere.

“We saw the opportunity to create an urban oasis – connected to the city, yet sufficiently tranquil to allow residents to recharge,” Lee added.

Benoy also highlighted MIK Group’s openness and disciplined approach, which enabled ideas to develop beyond short-term considerations.

For interiors, MIK Group appointed Studio HBA, the global hospitality design firm behind projects for Hilton, JW Marriott, Ritz-Carlton Macau, Shangri-La and Four Seasons. The decision reflected alignment around the philosophy of ‘quiet luxury’.

“MIK Group was not pursuing extravagance,” said Joris Angevaare, Project Director at Studio HBA. “They were seeking balance, restraint and longevity.”

The Magnolia was therefore conceived not as a residence designed to impress at first glance but as one intended to sustain comfort and emotional equilibrium over time. The ‘Canvas’ concept was developed as a refined framework that allows residents to shape their own living narrative.

According to Angevaare, the most distinctive aspect of working with MIK Group was its emphasis on durability of aesthetics and lived experience, rather than surface-level visual impact.

Construction and project management were entrusted to Turner International, whose global portfolio includes Taipei 101, The Armani Hotel & Residences Dubai at Burj Khalifa, The Ritz-Carlton Residences Bangkok and JW Marriott Hanoi.

Bojan Petkovic, Project Manager at Turner, noted that MIK Group’s definition of success stood out.

He said: “In many projects, success is measured by floor area or delivery speed. With MIK Group, enhancing the resident experience is the definitive benchmark against which every decision is measured.”

He added that this mindset shaped the implementation process.

“Our role goes beyond managing timelines and budgets. We are safeguarding a vision,” Bojan said.

Turner views The Magnolia as reflecting a life-cycle approach to luxury real estate development – integrating ESG standards, operational efficiency and long-term asset value preservation from the outset.

The collaboration between Benoy, Studio HBA and Turner International therefore represents more than a collection of global names. It reflects an integrated framework in which vision, design and execution are aligned within a coherent development structure.

“Luxury is not about being seen,” Nguyen Dung Minh concluded.

“It is about living well, quietly, for a very long time.”

The Magnolia stands as the most mature expression of the M Series platform -where elevated standards are translated into a tangible residential environment. From architecture shaping spatial rhythm, to interiors sustaining emotional comfort, to disciplined execution ensuring long-term quality, the project illustrates MIK Group’s capacity for integrated delivery.

As Vietnam’s property market continues to mature, developments such as The Magnolia signal a new phase for the luxury segment – one where value lies not in immediate visibility, but in the ability to sustain quality of living over time.

Hashtag: #MIKGroup #MIK

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/vietnams-mik-group-enlists-three-global-firms-for-the-magnolia-luxury-housing-project/

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Hong Kong Obesity Society Leads the Charge on World Obesity Day 2026: Turning the Tide on a Growing Health Crisis

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 March 2026 – World Obesity Day is celebrated on the 4th of March every year. Hong Kong Obesity Society (HKOS), in collaboration with the Tuen Mun District Health Centre, hosted the “Let’s Join, Let’s Be Healthy” Community Carnival to raise public awareness of obesity. With over 50% of Hong Kong’s adults suffering from overweight and obesity, alongside rising childhood obesity rates, the Society stresses the urgent need to confront this health challenge head-on.

Measuring Waistlines, Breaking World Records
It has been known for a long time that BMI alone does not accurately measure the amount and distribution of fat in the body. Waist circumference is an important measure of central obesity and metabolic risk and has recently been incorporated into the diagnosis of obesity. HKOS and over six hundred Hong Kong residents set a world record for the “Most People Measuring Their Waist Circumference in a Carnival,” turning a symbolic feat into a powerful public health message. The Society hosted a full day of multi-disciplinary activities, including expert talks on healthy dining and Traditional Chinese Medicine for weight management. Tuen Mun District Health Centre also provided free health screenings for sarcopenia, vision, and blood glucose. Interactive booths made learning about nutrition and exercise fun and accessible for the community.

A Call to Action from HKOS
“As we approach World Obesity Day 2026, we must recognise that obesity is not just a personal issue, but a complex medical condition that requires a societal response,” said Dr. See Wing Shan, President of the Hong Kong Obesity Society. “For nearly a decade, our Society has worked to dismantle harmful stigmas, such as correcting the misconception that ‘chubby children are healthy children.’ Our record-breaking event today proves that when we empower people with knowledge, they are ready to take charge of their health. We will continue to work with community partners and policymakers to ensure that obesity prevention and management remain a top priority in Hong Kong.”

The Society urges the public to take proactive steps, utilise the health risk assessment services available at District Health Centres, and seek professional guidance for weight management when needed.

https://www.hkobesity.org/
https://www.facebook.com/hkobesity/

Hashtag: #HongKongObesitySociety #HKOS #WorldRecord #Obesity #Health #HongKong #BMI #Weight #Dieting

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/hong-kong-obesity-society-leads-the-charge-on-world-obesity-day-2026-turning-the-tide-on-a-growing-health-crisis/

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PAObank Unveils New Wealth Service, Unlock the Power of a Dual-Advantage Wealth Management Model, Flexibly SWITCH Between Investment and Deposits

Source: Media Outreach

16-Hour U.S. Stock Trading Session*, Money Market Funds with T+0 Settlement

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 March 2026 – PAO Bank Limited (“PAObank”) is pleased to announce the official launch of wealth service, debuting a dual-advantage wealth solution. This service empowers customers to flexibly switch between investing or earning interest, offering unmatched flexibility and control over their finances. The wealth service combines the agility of a brokerage with the security of a bank, enabling customers to seamlessly manage investments, insurance, deposits, and more through a single account. Customers can flexibly allocate funds and trade a wide range of products, including U.S. stocks, Hong Kong stocks, funds and money market funds, at any time.

PAObank’s existing retail banking customers can open an investment account in as fast as 3 minutes, while new customers can open both savings and investment accounts in one-go, greatly simplifying the onboarding process. Customers can instantly deploy funds from their savings account to purchase stocks and funds directly, without the need for additional transfers. Investment returns can be credited back into the savings account to earn interest, supporting both the pursuit of timely market opportunities and steady interest income, all within one single PAObank account.

Mr. Ronald Iu, Chief Executive of PAObank, said, “The launch of wealth service marks a significant milestone in PAObank’s retail banking development. Retail banking at PAObank is rooted in user-friendliness. Our team believes that if we can save each customer one single step, we collectively save 10,000 steps for 10,000 customers. The design of our wealth service is customer-centric — streamlining procedures and eliminating unnecessary fund transfers, allowing customers to SWITCH flexibly between investment and deposit services. We will continue to upgrade our retail banking services, striving to become one of Ping An Group’s integrated financial platforms in Hong Kong, delivering a more comprehensive and user-friendly wealth management experience, and being recognised as the preferred digital bank in the minds of customers.”

U.S. & Hong Kong Stocks Trading: Broker-LevelAnalytics Tools forCapturing Opportunities
PAObank’s wealth service offers broker-level professional analytics tools, providing comprehensive insights from macro market trends to detailed stock information to help customers seize every investment opportunity. Key features include:

Online Brokerage-Grade Analytics Tools & Indicators:

  • 40+ Technical Indicators: Multi-angle market analysis, covering company performance, market trends, stock price movements, and peer comparisons to support deeper investment insights and discover potential opportunities.
  • Free Level 1 Real-Time Quotes: Instant access to real-time indices and quotes, enabling customers to make informed decisions and act quickly.
  • Industry Heatmap & Real-Time Trading Rankings: Intuitive visualisations of industry momentum and real-time rankings of active stocks, helping customers track market hotspots and pinpoint focus stocks with ease.

Flexible Trading Capabilities:

  • Up to 16Hours of U.S. Stock Trading Sessions: Trade U.S. stocks day and night to maximise market opportunities, with flexible pre-market and after-hour trading sessions in response to major news or unexpected events.
  • Unlimited 24-hour Real-Time Quotes: Access the latest market information around the clock.
  • Multiple Order Types: Support for limit orders, stop-limit orders and more, empowering customers to respond flexibly to market volatility.

Money Market Funds: T+0 Settlement, $0 Subscription & Redemption Fees, Same-Day Liquidity
PAObank’s money market funds offer a reliable and flexible way for cash management solutions, offering customers a stable and adaptable platform for capital growth. These funds primarily invest in short-term deposits and high-quality money market instruments, targeting lower risk and stable returns. Featuring: “T+0” same-day settlement, $0 subscription & redemption fees, low entry threshold, investors enjoy 24X7 access to subscriptions and redemptions, with proceeds credited to bank accounts as soon as the same day. Funds are available 365 days a year, enabling efficient and always-on cash management regardless of public holidays.

Curated Selection of Funds from Top-tier Global Fund Houses: Popular Thematic Rankings Including “Monthly Dividend Funds”
PAObank partners with leading global fund houses, including Ping An of China Asset Management (Hong Kong), Allianz Global Investors, Invesco, and Schroders, to curate nearly 60 global funds spanning popular themes such as technology, Asia and consumer sectors. The platform provides diverse, thematic fund rankings, including a dedicated “Monthly Dividend Funds” category tailored for dividend lovers. Transparent fund performance and data-driven analytics give customers the flexibility to adjust their portfolios in response to market trends, seizing global investment opportunities with ease.

*U.S. market trading sessions are based on Hong Kong time:
Summer time – Pre-market: 16:00 – 21:30; Market opening: 21:30 – 04:00; After-hours: 04:00 – 08:00.
Winter time – Pre-market: 17:00 – 22:30; Market opening: 22:30 – 05:00; After-hours: 05:00 – 09:00.
Total trading hours are 16 hours.

Investment involves risk. The price of investments fluctuates, sometimes dramatically. The price of investments may move up or down, and may become valueless. There is an inherent risk that losses may be incurred rather than profit made as a result of buying and selling investment products. Foreign investments carry additional risks not generally associated with the domestic market. You should carefully consider whether any investment products or services mentioned herein are appropriate for you in view of your investment experience, objectives, financial resources and circumstances.

Hashtag: #PAObank #Wealth #WealthService #Stocks #Funds

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/paobank-unveils-new-wealth-service-unlock-the-power-of-a-dual-advantage-wealth-management-model-flexibly-switch-between-investment-and-deposits/

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Economy – Singapore credit and charge card payments to grow by 9.2% in 2026, forecasts GlobalData

Source: GlobalData

Singapore’s credit and charge card payments market is projected to grow by 9.2% to reach SGD116.8 billion ($88.4 billion) in 2026. This growth is being driven by a confluence of factors including widespread card acceptance, a near-100% banked population, and increasing adoption of contactless cards, according to GlobalData, a leading intelligence and productivity platform.

GlobalData’s Payment Cards Analytics reveals that the credit and charge card payment value in Singapore registered an estimated growth rate of 7.6% in 2025, to reach SGD107 billion ($80.9 billion), driven by the rise in consumer spending.

Poornima Chinta, Senior Banking and Payments Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “While debit cards also enjoy strong usage, especially in everyday transactions, credit and charge cards have pulled ahead through superior value-added benefits, instalment options, cashback, and rewards programs. Regulatory backing, high public awareness of payment cards, robust merchant acceptance, and infrastructural enhancements including broader contactless card penetration are all reinforcing their lead.”

Rewards, discounts, and flexible payment schemes play a key role in driving credit and charge card usage in Singapore. Banks such as UOB offer instalment plans for online purchases over three, six, 12 or 24-month periods with 0% interest at partner merchants, while Citibank’s Citi SMRT card delivers up to 5% cashback on purchases in stores and online.

A well-developed POS infrastructure is also supporting the rise of credit and charge cards. Singapore boasts one of the highest number of POS terminals per million inhabitants in the Asia-Pacific region, which stood at 62,551 in 2025, significantly higher compared to some of its peers such as Malaysia (29,093), Hong Kong (27,992), and Thailand (13,017).

Regulatory and policy developments are also enhancing the environment for credit and charge card payments. Initiatives such as the Productivity Solutions Grant support SMEs with subsidized POS installations (up to 50% funding from April 2023), increasing merchant acceptance.

Chinta concludes: “Credit and charge card payments in Singapore are poised for steady growth over the next five years, underpinned by the expanding e-commerce adoption, a well-developed payment infrastructure, attractive rewards and instalment offers, and robust regulatory support. The credit and charge card market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 7.8% between 2025 and 2029 to reach SGD144.2 billion ($109.1 billion) in 2029.”

Notes

Quotes provided by Poornima Chinta, Senior Banking and Payments Analyst at GlobalData
Information is based on GlobalData’s Payment Cards Analytics

About GlobalData

GlobalData operates an intelligence platform that empowers leaders to act decisively in a world of complexity and change. By uniting proprietary data, human expertise, and purpose-built AI into a single, connected platform, we help organizations see what’s coming, move faster, and lead with confidence. Our solutions are used by over 5,000 organizations across the world’s largest industries, delivering tailored intelligence that supports strategic planning, innovation, risk management, and sustainable growth.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/economy-singapore-credit-and-charge-card-payments-to-grow-by-9-2-in-2026-forecasts-globaldata/

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WRISE Group Announces Strategic Partnership in Thailand with IFCG

Source: Media Outreach

Strategic alliance with the leading Thai brokerage and advisory firm will see both companies expand capabilities to provide institutional-grade wealth management solutions in the country

HONG KONG / SINGAPORE/MAINLAND CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 March 2026 – WRISE Wealth Management (“WRISE”), one of Asia’s fastest-growing independent wealth platforms, today announced its landmark strategic alliance with IFCG Public Company Limited (“IFCG”). By combining WRISE’s wealth management solutions with IFCG’s local footprint, the partnership will offer Thai investors access to global investment and insurance solutions*.

Thailand’s private wealth market, which is expected to exceed USD 1 trillion by 2028, is undergoing a structural shift. While more High-Net-Worth (HNW) and mass affluent investors seek greater transparency and sophisticated investment solutions, these individuals also face fragmented advisory services and limited access to global investment opportunities.

The WRISE-IFCG alliance addresses this market gap by integrating WRISE’s institutional-grade platform, global investment access, and proprietary technology with IFCG’s deep local expertise and extensive distribution network.

WRISE will provide its platform to enable financial advisory and capital solutions powered by technology, while delivering sophisticated wealth solutions that go beyond what traditional banks typically offer. Complementing this infrastructure, IFCG brings a robust network of over 400 professional wealth advisors, with a proven track record of engaging HNW, mass affluent and corporate clients across property, wealth, and health sectors.

Derrick Tan, Group Executive Chairman of WRISE, said: “Thailand is a strategic cornerstone in Southeast Asia’s wealth management landscape. We are seeing a new generation of Thai investors who are global in their outlook but underserved by fragmented local services. By partnering with IFCG, we look forward to combining our global reach with their in-market strength—further democratising access to institutional-grade wealth solutions for clients. Our goal is to provide Thai clients with the same borderless investment capabilities that our clients enjoy in Singapore, Hong Kong and Dubai.”

Withoon Lertpanomwan, CEO of IFCG, added: “Partnering with WRISE allows us to bring world-class investment solutions, integrated technology, and institutional-grade advisory to our clients. Together, we are building a wealth management platform that bridges global expertise with local knowledge, enabling Thailand’s investors to access scalable, sophisticated wealth solutions designed to support compliance with applicable regulations.”

The expansion in Thailand marks a significant milestone in WRISE’s regional growth strategy, following the opening of a new Client Service Centre in Taiwan earlier this year.

*This announcement is for informational purposes only and does not constitute an offer, solicitation, or recommendation of any securities, investment products or services in any jurisdiction. Any services in Thailand will be provided by IFCG and/or other appropriately licensed entities, as applicable. WRISE does not hold a securities licence in Thailand and does not provide regulated securities services in Thailand.

Hashtag: #WRISE

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

– Published and distributed with permission of Media-Outreach.com.

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/wrise-group-announces-strategic-partnership-in-thailand-with-ifcg/

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Live: Australia’s Middle East military HQ hit in Iranian drone attack, Qatar halts LNG production

Source: Radio New Zealand

Follow the latest with our live blog above

US President Donald Trump is warning ‘a big wave’ of strikes against Iran is yet to come.

Speaking to CNN, Trump said the US hasdn’t even begun to hit the Iranian regime hard.

Missile strikes continued to fly over the Middle East overnight, with multiple countries threatening escalation of the ongoing conflict.

Top members of the Trump administration have spoken publicly about ‘Operation Epic Fury’ for the first time at a Pentagon press conference. The US said the goal of the war was not regime change, despite the deaths of top Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the United States was not ruling out any options in the war, but promised, “This is not Iraq … This is not endless”.

Meanwhile, Iran said it was ready for a “long war” and has targeted US military bases in other Gulf states.

Kuwait said it accidentally shot down “several” US military aircraft in friendly fire.

Iran-backed Hezbollah and Israel continue to trade blows, prompting the Lebanese government to ban Hezbollah’s military and security activities and call on the group to hand over its weapons to the state.

Trump has said he envisages the conflict could last four weeks.

Follow the latest with our live blog at the top of this page.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/live-australias-middle-east-military-hq-hit-in-iranian-drone-attack-qatar-halts-lng-production/

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TamaIti Williams cops three-week ban for dangerous play

Source: Radio New Zealand

Crusaders prop Tamaiti Williams. photosport

Crusaders and All Blacks prop Tamaiti Williams will serve a three-week suspension after being found guilty of dangerous play during Saturday’s Super Rugby Pacific win over the Chiefs.

The competition’s foul play review committee found the ruling after Williams was cited for his entry to a ruck early in the match at Hamilton, with his shoulder deemed to have connected with the head of All Blacks team-mate Tupou Vaa’i.

The committee said the act of foul play merited a “mid-range entry point” punishment of six weeks but that was halved after the 25-year-old’s remorse and his disciplinary record were taken into account.

“Williams was also given permission to apply to take part in World Rugby’s Coaching Intervention Programme as a substitute for the final match of the sanction,” the committee said in a statement.

The 27-test veteran will miss this weekend’s match against the Blues at Eden Park, followed by games against the Highlanders and Moana Pasifika.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/tamaiti-williams-cops-three-week-ban-for-dangerous-play/

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Opposition leader Chris Hipkins says US-Israel strikes illegal

Source: Radio New Zealand

The Prime Minister admitted he “misspoke” when he said New Zealand supported “any actions” to prevent Iran having nuclear weapons.

The Prime Minister has admitted he “misspoke” when he said New Zealand supported “any actions” to prevent Iran having nuclear weapons.

Christopher Luxon also said New Zealand will not join the conflict.

At his post-Cabinet press conference on Monday, Luxon said successive governments have had a longstanding position that any action that stopped Iran from getting a nuclear weapon, from sponsoring terrorism, and from stopping them killing there own people was “a good thing.”

On Tuesday, Luxon described his comments as meaning New Zealand had long supported actions to prevent Iran from getting “its hands on nuclear weapons” and actions to stop the country sponsoring terrorism and repressing its people, but said “obviously, not any action.”

He said that was any action, but not “at any cost.”

Referring to the example raised of carpet bombing Iran, Luxon said “clearly that is not what we want to see.”

When asked how he made the error, given he repeated “any action” multiple times on Monday, Luxon said “I just said to you, I misspoke,” and passed on apologies.

Labour leader Chris Hipkins believes the strikes were illegal. RNZ / Mark Papalii

Labour leader Chris Hipkins said it was good that the Prime Minister had admitted he misspoke.

“Words matter – to quote our Foreign Affairs Minister – and in this particular instance words matter a great deal,” Hipkins said.

“Adherence to international law shouldn’t be a matter of discretion, it should be something we expect all countries to adhere to.”

“It’s a no” – Luxon rules out New Zealand joining strikes

Asked whether New Zealand would join the United States in this instance, Luxon confirmed it would not.

“It’s a no from me, and we haven’t been asked to, and I think we’re unlikely to do so as well.”

Luxon reiterated his comments from Monday, in which he said New Zealand was not party to the information that led to the strikes, and would also not speak about US President Donald Trump’s judgement when it came to conflict.

Hipkins welcomed the Prime Minister’s decision to rule out joining in the United States’ actions.

“I would prefer that the New Zealand government continued to take a very principled stance in saying we’re actually opposed to this bombing campaign, because it is a violation of international law, and New Zealand has a lot of reasons to want the rest of the world to be adhering to international law”

Iran and Israel have continued to trade strikes since joint US and Iran airstrikes killed Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Saturday.

US President Donald Trump has warned that bigger strikes are to come, and says the conflict could drag out longer than the four to five weeks he initially planned.

New Zealanders in Iran are urged to leave if it is safe to do so, and register on SafeTravel.

Luxon confirmed that 2150 New Zealanders were registered.

On Morning Report, Hipkins disagreed with the Prime Minister’s stance that it was not New Zealand’s place to comment on the legality of the strikes.

Hipkins said he believed the strikes were illegal.

“I think New Zealand government seems to be moving away from what has been a long-standing and principled approach to these issues,” he told Morning Report.

“We have been very clear that we think international law matters, and that all parties to these sorts of conflicts should follow international law. That’s not the case here.”

He said it is important that our government speaks with authority and in favour of international law.

“New Zealand’s government should stand up for the international system of rules that we rely on for our own security as a country,” Hipkins said.

“If the situation becomes that the countries with the most power can do whatever they like regardless of what international law says, that’s very bad news for a small country like New Zealand.”

Green Party co-leader Marama Davidson said the latest conflict in the Middle East endangered the rules-based order New Zealand relied on.

“The idea that we can start encouraging and allowing other countries to invade just because we don’t like their leaders is an incredibly dangerous take for this Prime Minister to support.

“He needs to be up front and declare whether he supports the rule of law, whether he supports countries in the world just willy nilly being able to decide, on vibes, whether they can invade or not.

“That’s really dangerous. That puts us and regions of the world in a really unsafe position.”

ACT leader David Seymour. RNZ / Mark Papalii

Deputy Prime Minister and ACT leader David Seymour is backing Luxon’s stance on the US-Israel attacks on Iran.

“One thing he’s noted that’s important is that New Zealand does not have all of the information that the US and Israel have used to justify their actions,” he told RNZ’s First Up on Tuesday. “So, we could spend a lot of time with New Zealand trying to be precise in its position, but I don’t think that’s what the world’s waiting for.”

He said as a result of the strikes, Iranian girls will have an opportunity to “dress as you like, go to school, do things that are normal rights that have been withheld from them by this regime”.

“And finally, for them in Iran and also for all of us around the world, it’s critical that trade is able to continue and resume so that we don’t face price shocks and even more economic peril. Those are the things that I think are important.”

Seymour would not say if he expected advance warning from allies like the UK if New Zealand troops at allies’ bases in the region were in danger.

“That’s something that we constantly talk about with our allies, but I think it’s safe to say that whatever we may or may not be doing won’t be helped by me announcing it on New Zealand radio…

“Clearly, the safety of New Zealand personnel is critical, and whatever moves might or might not be afoot, we’re not going to discuss publicly.”

Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters said New Zealand was not given any advance notice of the attack on Iran, and has again urged New Zealanders to leave if it is safe to do so.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/opposition-leader-chris-hipkins-says-us-israel-strikes-illegal/

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Convicted sex offender and former Gloriavale leader Howard Temple will not be going to jail

Source: Radio New Zealand

Howard Temple The Press/Kai Schwoerer

The lawyer for convicted sex offender and former Gloriavale leader Howard Temple says his client has won a High Court appeal against his sentence and will not be going to jail.

Temple was sentenced to 26 months’ jail in December for indecently assaulting young women and girls at the West Coast Christian community over 20 years.

The 85-year-old immediately appealed and has been on bail.

At a hearing in February, Temple’s lawyer Michael Vesty argued the sentence was excessive, given his age, bail conditions and cognitive impairment.

He argued that the sentence should be reduced to two years or less to allow for home detention.

On Tuesday, Vesty confirmed Temple would not be jailed and said his client was pleased the matter had concluded.

Temple was arrested in 2023 and denied the offending until part-way through his 2025 trial when he pled guilty to amended charges.

He admitted five counts of indecent assault, five of doing an indecent act and two of common assault – many of the charges were representative.

Temple was in a position of power at Gloriavale when the offending against six girls and young women happened between 2002 and 2022.

Temple resigned as Overseeing Shepherd in December, with Stephen Standfast taking on the leadership role.

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– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/convicted-sex-offender-and-former-gloriavale-leader-howard-temple-will-not-be-going-to-jail/

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World Wildlife Day: Medicinal and aromatic plants.

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

World Wildlife Day is celebrated every year on 3 March to celebrate and raise awareness about wild animals and plants. This year, the focus is on medicinal and aromatic plants. 

Today is World Wildlife Day

The date was chosen because the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) was signed on 3 March 1973. This global agreement uses permits to control the international trade of wild plants and animals, making sure it is legal and sustainable. 

Which New Zealand native plants have medicinal or aromatic properties?

New Zealand has many native medicinal plants (rongoā) such as kawakawa, mānuka, horopito, kūmarahou, harakeke, kōhūhū, hoheria and tōtara. We also have several aromatic native plants, including tarata (lemonwood), kānuka, mānuka, kopoti, kohukohu, fragrant hebe, and Olearia (tree daisy) species. 

These plants are increasingly used in local skincare products.  Kawakawa balm is popular for eczema and sensitive skin, and kūmarahou is valued for its natural, soap-like cleansing properties. 

Most of New Zealand’s medicinal and aromatic plants are not protected under CITES, because they are not currently threatened by international trade.

Kawakawa plant – Herb, Christophers

Which New Zealand Native plants are protected by CITES?

The only New Zealand native plants protected under CITES are orchids and tree ferns. The whole orchid family (Orchidaceae) and the tree fern genus Cyathea are listed globally. 

New Zealand has 26 genera and 118 species of native orchids. Orchids are used in beauty and health products overseas, but native orchids are not commonly used this way in New Zealand. 

Thelymitra cyanea – Christopher, Stephens

Cyathea has over 450 species, with many globally threatened by habitat loss, climate change, and overuse for horticulture. In New Zealand, there are seven native and one introduced Cyathea species. Only two species, found only on Raoul Island, are classified as at risk. 

The black tree fern (mamaku, Cyathea medullaris) and the silver fern (ponga, punga, Cyathea dealbata) are the primary native Cyathea ferns used in rongoā. 

Cyathea medullaris – Jacqui, Geux

Some trade has occurred in these species: 

  • Cyathea dealbata has been exported as live plants and sometimes logs to the UK, Europe, and China. 
  • Cyathea medullaris has been exported as live plants, powdered trunks, and tissue extracts, mainly to Europe and Japan. Powdered trunks have been exported to French cosmetic companies for use as exfoliants, and small amounts of plant fluid extracts have more recently gone to Australia, China, and France for use in health supplements. 

These exports were managed under CITES regulations. 

What medicinal and aromatic species are listed under CITES internationally?

Many medicinal and aromatic plants listed globally under CITES are available in New Zealand. 

Medicinal plants: 

  • American Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius): A North American plant – vulnerable to endangered, depending on the region. 
  • Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis): A vulnerable North American herb. 
  • Pygeum/African Cherry (Prunus africana): A vulnerable tree from central and southern Africa. 
  • Costus root (Saussurea costus):  Also known as Kuth or Aucklandia.  A critically endangered medicinal herb from the Himalayas. 
  • Dendrobium (Dendrobium):  A large genus of orchids, with many species used in traditional medicines.  At high risk because of habitat loss, climate change and illegal harvesting. 

Aromatic plants: 

Agarwood-producing species (Aquilaria): Trees from Southeast Asian rainforests that produce the fragrant resin agar (used in Oud perfume). Twenty-one species now classified from vulnerable to critically endangered. 

Panax quinquefolius (American Ginseng – Doug McGrady

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Saussurea costus, Vinayaraj

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What can we do for World Wildlife Day?

Support our native medicinal and aromatic plants so they aren’t over-harvested, as has happened to many species overseas.  

  • Buy beauty and health products from trustworthy sources to make sure ingredients are collected responsibly.  
  • Check permit requirements when bringing or taking any CITES protected products across international borders. 

Find out more about CITES 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/world-wildlife-day-medicinal-and-aromatic-plants/

Posted on

Live: Trump says ‘big wave’ in Iran is yet to come as conflict widens, Qatar halts LNG production

Source: Radio New Zealand

Follow the latest with our live blog above

US President Donald Trump is warning what he is describing as ‘a big wave’ of strikes against Iran is yet to come.

Speaking to CNN, Trump said the US hasn’t even begun to hit the Iranian regime hard yet.

Missile strikes continued to fly over the Middle East overnight, with multiple countries threatening escalation of the ongoing conflict.

Top members of the Trump administration have spoken publicly about ‘Operation Epic Fury’ for the first time at a Pentagon press conference. The US said the goal of the war was not regime change, despite the deaths of top Iranian leaders, including Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said the United States was not ruling out any options in the war, but promised, “This is not Iraq … This is not endless”.

Meanwhile, Iran said it was ready for a “long war” and has targeted US military bases in other Gulf states.

Kuwait said it accidentally shot down “several” US military aircraft in friendly fire.

Iran-backed Hezbollah and Israel continue to trade blows, prompting the Lebanese government to ban Hezbollah’s military and security activities and call on the group to hand over its weapons to the state.

Trump has said he envisages the conflict could last four weeks.

Follow the latest with our live blog at the top of this page.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/live-trump-says-big-wave-in-iran-is-yet-to-come-as-conflict-widens-qatar-halts-lng-production/

Posted on

Another wastewater leak hits Wellington

Source: Radio New Zealand

Wellington Harbour is off limits for swimmers with strong southerlies, rain and rough seas forecast to ease heading into Wednesday. Supplied

Wellington Water crews are responding to a wastewater leak on Marine Drive in Eastbourne.

The leak is from the main outfall pipe, which transports fully treated wastewater over 18km from Seaview to Pencarrow.

Because of the leak’s location, it’s likely that fully treated wastewater is entering the stormwater system and may be coming into contact with the coastline around 735 Marine Drive.

Wellington Water said the risk to public health remains low.

At this stage, Wellington Water estimates the repair will be completed by early next week.

It’s not the first wastewater leak in Wellington this year. On 4 February, Moa Point treatment plant failed catastrophically, sending about 70 million litres of untreated sewage to the sea daily.

It prompted Wellington Water chair Nick Leggett to resign on 15 February, saying stepping aside would allow Wellington Water to focus on fixing the problems and restoring public trust.

An independent government review would examine the causes of the plant’s failure.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/another-wastewater-leak-hits-wellington/

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Beneficiaries responding to traffic light system, government says

Source: Radio New Zealand

RNZ / Quin Tauetau

The government says a new survey shows its traffic light system for those on a job seeker benefit is working as planned.

In August 2024, the coalition set up a traffic light system – alongside sanctions – for beneficiaries who don’t meet their obligations.

Social Development and Employment Minister Louise Upston said an evaluation had now found MSD clients were more on top of their job search responsibilities.

“Ninety percent of clients surveyed as part of the Ministry of Social Development’s latest evaluation said they found the traffic light system has been helpful for understanding their obligations, which include a range of activities towards finding employment.

“We’re also seeing nearly 99 percent of clients are fulfilling their obligations, along with a 10.6 percent drop in the number of sanctions issued between the September 2024 and September 2025 quarters.”

Upston said the traffic light system had been designed to reset expectations for those on welfare and it was clear the reset was working.

“The traffic light system ensures the welfare system is more integrated and helps jobseekers understand and navigate their obligations, helping them to be prepared, proactive and seize opportunities when they come along.

“Welfare is conditional on recipients meeting their responsibilities.”

Upston said the coalition remained committed to reaching its target of 50,000 fewer people on Jobseeker Support by 2030.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/beneficiaries-responding-to-traffic-light-system-government-says/

Posted on

Conflict in Iran shows ‘risk’ of government’s plan to import LNG as back-up to Taranaki facility

Source: Radio New Zealand

A navy vessel is seen sailing in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital waterway through which much of the world’s oil and gas passes on March 1, 2026. SAHAR AL ATTAR / AFP

A spike in the price of LNG because of conflict in Iran shows how risky the government’s plan to import the fuel as a back-up is, experts say.

The government said last month it would proceed with plans to build a liquefied natural gas (LNG) import facility in Taranaki, with the cost spread across all electricity users through a levy.

Energy Minister Simon Watts said that it would result in overall savings to households, because it would help to lower electricity premiums during dry years.

Traffic through the Strait of Hormuz – a crucial shipping route connecting the Persian Gulf with open ocean – has ground to a halt since the US and Israel launched strikes on Iran.

Alan Brent, chair of sustainable energy systems at Victoria University, said the strait was a “key choke-point” for the global energy market and its closure had prompted price spikes for many different fuels.

“LNG has been slower to respond than crude oil but it is up more than one percent already, just in the last few hours,” he said.

“The commentary that’s coming through is that they’re expecting this to be quite significant, especially for LNG.”

More than 100 billion cubic litres of LNG moved through the strait every year – roughly 20 percent of the global LNG trade, Brent said.

Energy Minister Simon Watts. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

Goldman Sachs forecast price rises of 130 percent – more than double – if the disruption continued throughout March.

Both a Cabinet paper and a report commissioned by the four electricity gentailers warned that exposure to price shocks was a risk of proceeding with LNG imports.

“LNG-dependent markets saw extreme spikes in 2022 when Russia invaded Ukraine … illustrating the volatility imported into domestic bills,” the gentailer report said.

The government’s plan has been widely criticised, with even a report it commissioned last year finding that LNG should only be used as a last resort.

Energy advocates have pushed for the government to pursue alternatives, saying even burning a stockpile of coal at Huntly would be preferable.

Independent climate policy analyst Christina Hood said New Zealand already experienced the effect of petrol price shocks during periods of geopolitical turbulence.

“It’s a huge risk for the New Zealand economy to be exposing even more of our energy system to volatile international prices,” she said.

“That really worries me, and that risk analysis does deserve a re-think and we should be pivoting towards more stable, domestic energy sources.”

The government’s own analysis had found that using biomass pellets at Huntly was cheaper and had benefits for the local economy, she said.

That option was ruled out because, according to that analysis, it would take the longest to deliver.

Infometrics chief executive Brad Olsen said that “very quickly, the risks outlined around LNG access have come true”.

Infometrics chief executive Brad Olsen. RNZ / Samuel Rillstone

“Current events make it harder to immediately buy into why this LNG facility is likely the best option, because it has potentially fallen over at the first hurdle.”

It was true that high prices might not persist, he said.

“But if the whole idea of the LNG facility was to provide that short-term relief, well, if New Zealand hit a dry-year time and something’s happening in the Starit of Hormuz, then you’ve got a very expensive white elephant that might be sitting there.”

There was still time for the government to pivot to a different solution.

“From what I understand we haven’t signed commitments,” Olsen said.

“If there’s some real feeling of need around emergency supply in dry years, I do wonder if water take around the hydro lakes is a much more readily accessible option.”

There were environmental concerns to factor into that alternative, he said.

“But if you want to get stuff done quickly, then using the water in the lakes that’s already there … is going to be a lot easier.”

The government should also be telling those gentailers in which it held a majority stake to not return such a large dividend to the Crown, and instead invest it into renewables and other options to provide security of supply, he said.

Energy Minister Simon Watts’ office has been approached for comment.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.

– Published by EveningReport.nz and AsiaPacificReport.nz, see: MIL OSI in partnership with Radio New Zealand

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/03/conflict-in-iran-shows-risk-of-governments-plan-to-import-lng-as-back-up-to-taranaki-facility/