Category: 24/7 News

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Last chance to save globally rare plants from rabbits

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  20 March 2026

It’s part of a wider goal to have a pest free Kaitorete Spit which is internationally recognised for its ecological value and contains many globally unique plants.

DOC Mahaanui Operations Manager Andy Thompson says the plan is to restore more than 300 hectares and bring back rare plant species which have been decimated by rabbits and hares.

“We’ve seen a huge increase in rabbit numbers, and they’re destroying incredibly special plants like native broom which has beautiful lilac flowers. Kaitorete is the only place in the world this plant exists. This could be our last chance to save it,” Andy Thompson says.

DOC is working with partners Pest Free Banks Peninsula and Tāwhaki. Tāwhaki was established in 2021 as a partnership between Te Taumutu Rūnanga, Wairewa Rūnanga, and the New Zealand Government, with a dual kaupapa (purpose) to advance Aotearoa’s aerospace sector and rejuvenate the unique whenua at Kaitorete.

Tāwhaki Head of Whenua Planning and Rejuvenation Julian Phillips says Kaitorete is a significant cultural landscape renowned for its mahinga kai, taonga species, and history.

“Kaitorete is home to rare and threatened flora and fauna species, including tororaro and pīngao which plays an important role in dune health and is coveted by weavers due to its brilliant yellow colour,” he says.

“This whenua is part of an ancestral travel route for tīpuna travelling north and south along the east coast of Te Waipounamu. It’s home to some of Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest concentrations of middens and pre-historic archaeological sites.

“Whānau from Wairewa and Taumutu, through Tāwhaki, have been completing observational monitoring across Kaitorete for four years to track the health of this whenua – including the land, water, taonga species as well as our connection to the taiao.

“What we’ve seen is increasing evidence of damage caused by rabbits and hares, despite the incredible work of DOC and Pest Free Banks Peninsula.

“Left unchecked, rabbit populations strip vegetation, de-stabilise dunes and put pressure on already vulnerable species,” says Julian Phillips.

Pest Free Banks Peninsula Team Leader Tim Sjoberg says DOC’s rabbit control work supports the multi pest elimination programme on Kaitorete.

“By working together, we have a much greater chance of creating a truly pest-free environment, which will allow the precious and rare plants and animals to thrive here,” he says.

Today, a helicopter with under slung cereal bait sowing equipment, and GPS tracking navigation will be used. The loading zone is at the Tāwhaki National Aerospace Centre with the helicopter transporting the bait to trickle feed across the DOC scientific reserve. The cereal bait contains the pesticide pindone.

Andy Thompson says due to the rabbit numbers and the size of the terrain and vegetation, the aerial operation was the best way to eliminate the rabbits with ground-based bait laying and night shooting as a follow up if necessary. A rabbit proof fence has also been constructed to keep the pests out long term.

“We”ve got this one chance to save this precious landscape which has enormous cultural and biodiversity values. We are so lucky to have a community so committed to naturing and helping us restore this area.”

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/last-chance-to-save-globally-rare-plants-from-rabbits/

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Court decision summary – Tamiefuna v R [2025] NZSC 40

Source: Privacy Commissioner

Have you ever wondered whether the information privacy principles in the Privacy Act 2020 are relevant to the right against unreasonable search and seizure? The Supreme Court answered that question with a yes in this criminal appeal. 

The appellant, Mr Tamiefuna, was convicted of one charge of aggravated robbery. He challenged the inclusion of photographic evidence used by Police to obtain this conviction. Mr Tamiefuna appealed a Court of Appeal decision which determined the photographic evidence was improperly obtained but declined to find the evidence should have been excluded from his trial. 

The Supreme Court found that the photographic evidence was both improperly obtained and should have been excluded from Mr Tamiefuna’s trial under s 30(4) of the Evidence Act 2006. A retrial was ordered.

Background

On 5 November 2019 Mr Tamiefuna was a passenger in a car which was the subject of a routine traffic stop. A police officer ran a National Intelligence Application (NIA) check for the occupants of the vehicle and discovered Mr Tamiefuna had previous convictions relating to property offending. The check revealed the driver of the car was unlicensed and the car was impounded. This required the occupants to exit the vehicle.

Mr Tamiefuna and his companions removed property from the car and stood on the footpath while waiting to be picked up. A police officer noticed there was a lot of property, including batteries and a woman’s purse and coat. This made them suspicious the property may have been stolen. At this point, the police officer took photographs of the property and the car’s occupants using their police issue smartphone. The photographs of Mr Tamiefuna show him standing on the footpath beside the car. He is looking towards the camera and is clearly aware that he was being photographed.  Mr Tamiefuna’s face and clothing are captured in the images.

The police officer added these photographs and a note of his observations to the NIA. The information was collected and retained as the officer thought it might be useful in future. There was no specific purpose. 

The photographs were critical evidence at Mr Tamiefuna’s trial, linking him to the aggravated robbery, as the clothing in the photographs matched a man captured in CCTV footage at the scene of the offending. 

There is no statutory authority authorising the taking of these photographs, nor the retention of one of those photographs on the NIA. 

Litigation history

Prior to his trial, Mr Tamiefuna challenged the admissibility of the evidence collected at the traffic stop. He argued it was improperly obtained and inadmissible under s 30 of the Evidence Act. The challenge was rejected in the High Court. The Court of Appeal declined leave to appeal that decision pre-trial. 

Following the trial, Mr Tamiefuna appealed his conviction. The Court of Appeal decided that the taking of a person’s photograph in a public place by police without a current investigative or law enforcement purpose, breached their right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure under s 21 of the New Zealand Bill of Rights Act 1990 (NZBORA). However, the Court did not consider the evidence should have been excluded under s 30 of the Evidence Act, on the basis the impropriety was outweighed by the need for an effective and credible justice system. The appeal was dismissed.

The Privacy Commissioner’s role as an independent intervener in the proceeding

An intervener is a third party who is allowed to join litigation even though they are not a party to the proceedings. This process is called “intervening” and allows an expert or interested party to assist the court by making legal submissions on particular points – especially if the case is of general public importance.

The Privacy Commissioner was granted leave from the Court to intervene as an independent expert as the appeal would have broad consequences for the interaction between information privacy, NZBORA, and Police information gathering powers. 

Grounds of appeal in the Supreme Court

(a)    Whether the Court of Appeal was correct to find that the photographic evidence was improperly obtained for the purpose of s 30 of the Evidence Act; and 
(b)    Whether the Court of Appeal was correct in admitting the evidence under s 30 of the Evidence Act.

Majority decision (Winkelmann CJ, Ellen France and Williams JJ)

At common law, Police have a duty to prevent crime and to detect and bring offenders to justice. The police have powers to undertake these duties and the common law will supplement existing statutory provisions when necessary. As the collection and retention of the photographs on the NIA were not authorised by statute, police were exercising their common law powers.

The exercise of police common law powers is subject to statutory requirements and restrictions. Relevant in this case was s 21 of NZBORA, which provides that every person has the right to be secure against unreasonable search and seizure. 

Was taking the photographs a search?

In determining whether Police taking photographs of a person in a public place after they were required to leave a car following a lawful traffic stop was a search, the majority considered four key factors; the nature of the place, the use to which the information was put, the manner of collection, and the nature of the information. 

Significant weight was given to the fact that Mr Tamiefuna was only in a public place because he has been ejected from a vehicle. The manner of collection was not at the higher end of intrusiveness, however, the use to which the information was put increased the level of intrusiveness. They also noted there were very few controls over the retention and use of Mr Tamiefuna’s personal information. The majority considered the police power exercised was intrusive and very general.

In assessing the nature of the information, the majority relied on the joint report of the Privacy Commissioner (OPC) and the Independent Police Conduct Authority | Mana Whanonga Pirihimana Motuhake (IPCA), which was issued in 2022 following an inquiry into police conduct when photographing members of the public (the Joint Report). 

The Joint Report highlighted that photographs of individuals are sensitive biometric personal information, stating they are “capable of being analysed using facial recognition technology and other digital techniques which makes it even more important that the information is being collected, used, retained and stored lawfully.” The majority added that the sensitivity of biometric information is recognised in the fact that statutory regimes are required to govern their use and collection.

Overall, the majority concluded the police officer’s actions amounted to a search as Mr Tamiefuna had a reasonable expectation of privacy that was intruded on.

Was the search reasonable?

The taking and retention of the photographs was not lawful. Police are subject to statutory controls when conducting searches and it was not appropriate to extend their common law power to authorise a warrantless search for generalised intelligence gathering in a way which is not appropriate, particularly where the relevant statutory framework imposes controls in relation to the very same activity (though in a different context).

The majority stated the information privacy principles (IPPs) (when this incident occured the Privacy Act 1993 was in effect. The Privacy Act 2020 sets out the current IPPs in section 22. For the purposes of this case, there are no material differences between these iterations of the IPPs) were relevant, though not decisive, in an analysis of s 21 of NZBORA and s 30 of the Evidence Act. In discussing the IPPs, the majority stated:

  • Under IPP 1, an agency may only collect personal information as is necessary for a lawful purpose. This was breached as there was no lawful purpose for the collection of Mr Tamiefuna’s information.
  • Under IPP 3, the collecting agency must take reasonable steps to inform the person concerned, among other things, about the collection, the purpose of the collection and its legal basis. This was not done in this case.
  • Under IPP 9, personal information once collected must not be held for longer than is required for the purposes for which the information may lawfully be used. As there was no lawful purpose, the retention of the information was in breach of this principle. 

The IPPs were useful in stating the expectations of a reasonable person. As Police failed to comply with the IPPs,  the search was not reasonable (as it breached the Privacy Act) and the evidence was therefore improperly obtained.

As the search was illegal it was unreasonable under s 21 of NZBORA. This meant the photographic information was improperly obtained for the purposes of s 30 of the Evidence Act. 

Was the court wrong to admit the evidence?

If evidence is found to have been improperly obtained, s 30(2) of the Evidence Act requires the Judge to “determine whether or not the exclusion of the evidence is proportionate to the impropriety by means of a balancing process that gives appropriate weight to the impropriety and takes proper account of the need for an effective and credible system of justice.”

In this case, it was decided that excluding the evidence would not be disproportionate to the breach. There was a breach of an important right and an overextension of police powers (though the Court noted the police officers involved acted in good faith). The majority stated “an effective and credible system of justice in this case requires the exclusion of the evidence. Otherwise, on a longer-term basis, the justice system is brought into disrepute.”

As intervener, OPC submitted in the cases where evidence has been obtained in breach of s 21 of NZBORA or another human rights obligation, s 30 should be applied to provide an effective remedy for that breach. An effective remedy must both vindicate the right of the individual and avoid recurrence of the breach in other cases. This submission was accepted by the majority. 

Outcome

The appeal was allowed. Mr Tamiefuna’s conviction was quashed and a retrial was ordered.

Minority decision (Glazebrook J)

Glazebrook J considered there was no search in this case, finding the concept of a “search” would be extended too far if it included filming or photography of what a person saw and heard, where there is no active looking for someone or something. Further, Glazebrook J found Mr Tamiefuna did not have a reasonable expectation of privacy. The photograph was taken on a public street, it was not covert, and people should be expected to be observed while in public. An individual interacting with another person (including the Police) can have no reasonable expectation that the other person will not make and store a full and accurate audio or video of the interaction, which can later be disclosed and used.

This minority decision also considered the collection and retention of the photographs was both reasonable and lawful. It was an appropriate use of Police investigative powers into offending.

Glazebrook J agreed with the reasoning in the Court of Appeal and would have admitted the photographs under s 30 of the Evidence Act. In reaching that conclusion the Court of Appeal said that while the right breached was important, the intrusion on this right was not very serious and the evidence obtained was central to the prosecution. In these circumstances, exclusion of the evidence would be disproportionate to the breach.

Minority decision (Kós J)

Kós J also considered there was no search, as the traffic stop and ejection of Mr Tamiefuna from the car was lawful and Mr Tamiefuna was in a public place. People on a public street lack a reasonable expectation of privacy from being photographed. Cell phones and CCTV make this a routine experience. 

The essential feature of a search was described as an examination or investigation for the purposes of obtaining evidence, which intrudes upon a right to privacy. Kós J stated there was no right to privacy on a public street and no reasonable expectation of privacy, finding an ordinary photograph of a person present on the pavement of a public street should not engage s 21 of NZBORA.

In this case, the entry of Mr Tamiefuna’s photographs in the NIA was unlawful, as it was not permitted by either statute or common law. However, Kós J would not have excluded the evidence for the same reasons as Glazebrook J.

Kós J concluded by stating “What might have been seen as a grey area in 2019 was no longer so grey after [the Joint Report] was published. A different balance might be struck thereafter, in another case.”

Privacy implications

Key takeaways:

  • The IPPs can be compelling in determining whether human rights have been breached.
  • Despite the current cultural context (including available technology, such as cell phones and CCTV) being on a public street does not mean an individual has no expectation of privacy. Particularly where the state is exercising an intrusive power.
  • At [33] the majority stated “there were features of the relevant events that mean the fact [Mr Tamiefuna]’s photograph was taken whilst he was on a public road is not a conclusive factor against the asserted reasonableness of his expectations of privacy. It remains important to preserve a sufficient zone of privacy for individuals. That in turn is a part of preserving the fundamentals of a liberal democracy.”

Related content

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/court-decision-summary-tamiefuna-v-r-2025-nzsc-40/

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Investigation following serious assault, Amberley, Hurunui District

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Karen Simmons: 

Police are investigating following a serious assault last night in Amberley, Hurunui District.

At around 10.25pm Police were called with a report that a person had been seriously assaulted at an address on Racecourse Road.

The victim was transported to hospital with critical injuries and is currently undergoing surgery.

Police are speaking with a person in relation to the incident and are not seeking anyone else at this time.

A scene examination is underway at the address, and enquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/investigation-following-serious-assault-amberley-hurunui-district/

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Counties Manukau youth to get faster support

Source: New Zealand Government

A new dedicated child mental health service in Counties Manukau was officially opened today by Mental Health Minister Matt Doocey, marking an important step in ensuring our young people have faster access to support.

“Mental health is one of the biggest challenges facing our youth today. Every New Zealander deserves access to support, when and where they need it. By expanding the help available, we can ensure no one is left stuck on a waitlist,” Mr Doocey says. 

The new specialist child mental health team –Te Ooritetanga oo ngaa Ratonga moo ngaa Tamariki | The Equality of Services for all Children – will operate within the Infant, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (ICAMHS) at Counties Manukau Mental Health and Addiction Services. It has been established to support young people up to intermediate school age, along with their families, who are experiencing, or are at risk of developing, moderate to severe mental health challenges.

“We know the massive difference that early intervention can make. By identifying needs early and providing the right support before issues escalate, we can give our young people the tools they need to live the lives they deserve,” Mr Doocey says. 

Counties Manukau is home to one of New Zealand’s fastest-growing populations. Of the estimated total population in 2021, more than 20 per cent were under 15 years old, that’s around 123,400 children and young people.

“I am pleased that this new dedicated team will strengthen our specialist services, help meet the needs of this rapidly growing community, and ensure young people get support at the top of the cliff, rather than waiting for the ambulance at the bottom.” 

The multi-disciplinary team will provide wraparound support and includes a senior medical officer, registered nurses, two clinical psychologists, two occupational therapists, and two social workers. Recruitment is underway for whānau workers. 

The service is funded through the Government’s $18.7 million investment to expand and enhance ICAMHS. 

“We have all seen the startling youth suicide statistics in New Zealand and, quite simply, this is not good enough. What keeps me awake at night is knowing that some young people aren’t getting the support they need. I do not want any young person to fall through the cracks.
 
“Nationally, we have seen our focused efforts pay off. The frontline Health NZ mental health workforce grown by over 11 per cent since we came into Government. We have also seen increases in key workforces such as the child and adolescent workforce which has grown by 19 per cent.

“This is part of the Government’s plan to deliver faster access to support, more frontline workers, and a better crisis response.” 
 

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/counties-manukau-youth-to-get-faster-support/

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Economy – RBNZ Advisory: Expanded April Monetary Policy Review and change to focus of Business NZ speech

Source: Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua (RBNZ)

20 March 2026 – The Reserve Bank of New Zealand – Te Pūtea Matua (RBNZ) is expanding its communications approach for the 8 April Monetary Policy Review.

The April Monetary Policy Review decision will be released as usual on the RBNZ website at 2pm. We will hold an online media conference at 3pm, which will also be livestreamed on our website. Governor Breman will be undertaking media engagements in the days following the announcement. (ref. https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=1454659f0e&e=f3c68946f8 )

This approach aligns with the Monetary Policy Committee’s (MPC) commitment to greater transparency. Future Monetary Policy Reviews will also follow this revised format. We will review and adapt this format over time in response to stakeholder feedback.

The RBNZ’s quarterly Monetary Policy Statement, which includes updated economic forecasts, an Official Cash Rate projection and more detailed forecasts will continue as normal. Monetary Policy Statement releases will also continue to be followed by in-person media conferences. The next quarterly Monetary Policy Statement is scheduled for release on 27 May.

Change of focus for Business NZ speech
On Tuesday 24 March, Governor Breman is scheduled to deliver a keynote speech to Business NZ’s CEO Forum in Auckland. The RBNZ previously advised that the speech would touch on the current economic outlook, drawing on insights from the February Monetary Policy Statement, and outline how the Reserve Bank is working to modernise New Zealand’s payments system.

Due to the wider economic impact of the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, this speech will now focus on the potential impacts of this evolving situation on the New Zealand economy.

The speech will be published on the RBNZ website at 9am on Tuesday 24 March ahead of two planned external engagement events with Governor Breman that morning. The first engagement is with external economists and analysts, and the second is with Auckland media representatives. The Business NZ CEO Forum event that Governor Breman is speaking at will commence from 2pm. The RBNZ is releasing the speech earlier in the day to ensure that all stakeholders have equitable access to information.

A speech outlining how the Reserve Bank is working to modernise New Zealand’s payments system will be delivered at a later date.

This speech will not pre-empt the MPC’s April Monetary Policy Review decision. The global environment, and other salient factors, will be discussed in full by the MPC when it meets ahead of its April decision.

More information

Event advisory: Business NZ CEO Forum: https://govt.us20.list-manage.com/track/click?u=bd316aa7ee4f5679c56377819&id=cebad07a06&e=f3c68946f8

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/economy-rbnz-advisory-expanded-april-monetary-policy-review-and-change-to-focus-of-business-nz-speech/

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Investigation launch following serious injuries, Christchurch

Source: New Zealand Police

Attribute to Detective Sergeant Ben Rolton, Christchurch Metro CIB:

Police are investigating after a woman was found with serious injuries in Christchurch last night.

Police were called to Worcester Street, between Latimer Square and Barbadoes Street, around 10pm last night, with reports that a person had received wounds consistent with being stabbed.

The woman was transported to Christchurch Hospital by ambulance where she underwent surgery.

A scene guard was in place overnight, and a scene examination is taking place today.

Police are making enquiries into the circumstances of the incident and working to identify who is responsible.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/investigation-launch-following-serious-injuries-christchurch/

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Allocation process for flight landings in Westland Tai Poutini National Park opens

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  20 March 2026

The allocations process is the way DOC manages aircraft landings in and around the popular South Westland glaciers. Currently, four businesses are directly involved in landings in the Park, which are a significant drawcard to visitors wanting to experience the glacier landscape.

This allocation follows a consultation period where DOC heard from operators and interested parties on how they thought aircraft landings allocations should be managed, given changes to the landscape of Westland Tai Poutini National Park.

Climate change is causing reduced snow cover and glacier retreat, which impacts on the safety and usability of some of the 18 approved landing sites, particularly during peak periods.

South Westland Operations Manager Wayne Costello says interest in aircraft landings has been high.

“There’s strong demand for the landings available. We received expressions of interest from 11 operators, which is not surprising and obviously more than the current four operators with concessions to land in the Park.

“We want to make it easier for businesses and people using these landings to interact with us to get the permissions they need and offer visitors flying in the Park the best experience possible.

“We have designed the allocation process to be consistent, clear and easy to use for operators interested in the opportunity. It will also enable landing sites to be better utilised within the Westland Tai Poutini National Park.

“The allocation process is aligned with the outcomes of the management plan and we are not increasing overall limits.

“We’ve designed the allocation process to support exceptional experiences for visitors, including time on the ground, storytelling, and deeper understanding of Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area.

“We also considered the experiences other users when developing this framework, for example, people walking in the Franz Josef Glacier valley to ensure impacts on their experience is minimised.”

An Assessment Panel will review allocation applications from 27 April 2026, and Operators will be notified of outcomes in July 2026. Operators who are granted an allocation will also need to apply for a concession in order to undertake flight landings.

Background information

Westland Tai Poutini National Park is a nationally and internationally significant landscape in Te Wāhipounamu World Heritage Area.

Aircraft access has long enabled visitors to experience high alpine areas, but this must be balanced with preserving natural quiet, protecting Park values and managing increasing visitor expectations.

The regulatory framework is set by the Westland Tai Poutini National Park Management Plan, which limits aircraft landings to 18 approved sites and caps total aircraft numbers.

Contact

For media enquiries contact:

Email: media@doc.govt.nz

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/allocation-process-for-flight-landings-in-westland-tai-poutini-national-park-opens/

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“The Majestic Han: A Golden Age of Vigour and Cultural Integration” exhibition opens

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 March 2026 – The opening ceremony of the exhibition titled “The Majestic Han: A Golden Age of Vigour and Cultural Integration” was held today (March 19) at the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre. The exhibition is jointly organised by the Development Bureau (DEVB) and the National Cultural Heritage Administration (NCHA). It features significant archaeological finds unearthed on the Chinese Mainland and in Hong Kong, showcasing the dynamic and innovative Han dynasty, a golden era that made profound contributions to promoting exchanges between Chinese and Western civilisations.

The opening ceremony of the exhibition titled “The Majestic Han: A Golden Age of Vigour and Cultural Integration” was held today (March 19) at the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre. Photo shows the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn (centre); the Director of Art Exhibitions China, Mr Tan Ping (second right); the Second-level Inspector of the Department of Publicity, Cultural and Sports Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr Chen Xinyu (second left); the Chairman of the Antiquities Advisory Board, Professor Desmond Hui (first right); and the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Built Heritage Conservation, Professor Douglas So (first left), officiating at the opening ceremony.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, said that the Han and Tang dynasties were both golden eras in Chinese history, leaving behind a wealth of important historical legacies for the Chinese nation. Following the success of the “Tang Vogue Beyond the Horizons: A Golden Era of Multicultural Integration and Openness” exhibition jointly organised by the DEVB and the NCHA last year, both parties collaborated again to present a large-scale Han dynasty-themed artefact exhibition this year. She eagerly anticipates that through these precious artefacts, members of the public and tourists will learn more about the glorious history of the Han dynasty and appreciate the remarkable virtues of traditional Chinese culture. They will also discover a fresh perspective through the narratives conveyed by the artefacts from Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland.

Other officiating guests at the opening ceremony of the exhibition were the Director of Art Exhibitions China, Mr Tan Ping; the Second-level Inspector of the Department of Publicity, Cultural and Sports Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr Chen Xinyu; the Chairman of the Antiquities Advisory Board, Professor Desmond Hui; and the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Built Heritage Conservation, Professor Douglas So.

The exhibition is presented in six thematic sections, covering political system, economic development, culture and beliefs, scientific and technological development, social life and external exchanges. It features 252 pieces/sets of invaluable exhibits. Among them, 203 pieces/sets, including 40 grade-one cultural relics, come from 29 museums and cultural institutions in 14 provinces and autonomous regions on the Chinese Mainland, and most of them are being shown in Hong Kong for the first time. The remaining 49 pieces/sets are significant archaeological finds dating to the Han period unearthed in Hong Kong, painstakingly selected by the Antiquities and Monuments Office of the DEVB.

The star exhibits from the Chinese Mainland highlight the Han precious bronze horse-leading figurine and bronze horse; an eaves end tile with Chinese characters Han Bing Tian Xia (Han unifies the realm); a seven-storey painted pottery granary house with linked pavilion; the Yi Li (Etiquette and rites) wooden slips, a bronze fang vessel of Inner Treasury of Zhongshan, a gold linzhi hoof, the silk letter from Yuan to Zifang and arithmetical slips unearthed at the Xuanquan relay station site in Dunhuang; a silk manuscript of Yinyang Wuxing (Yinyang and the Five Elements) Article B; a silk padded robe with Chang Shou (longevity) embroidery on a crimson purple juan (plain weave silk) ground; gloves with lozenge pattern; padded socks; and a lacquered wooden plate with leopard cat motif and Chinese characters Jun Xing Shi (food for the honoured guest) and a silver box with garlic pattern. Other exhibits cover a variety of categories, ranging from Han bamboo slips, coins, bronze vessels, clothes and ornaments to pottery figurines, pottery houses and agricultural tools, which present the daily lives of various social strata in the Han period.

The key exhibits unearthed in Hong Kong include a pottery house unearthed at Lei Cheng Uk Han Tomb, as well as the Han period artefacts excavated at local significant archaeological sites such as Tung Wan Tsai in Ma Wan, So Kwun Wat in Tuen Mun and Kau Sai Chau in Sai Kung, covering Wuzhu bronze coins, a textile fragment, a stone seal, a bronze ear-cup, jade slotted rings and glass beads. These relics reflect that the Han culture had long been rooted in Hong Kong, and showcase the city’s connection with the country, the pluralistic nature of the Chinese culture and Hong Kong’s links with the early Maritime Silk Road trade.

Admission to the exhibition is free. Details are as follows:

Date: March 20 to September 20
Opening hours:
Monday to Wednesday and Friday: 10am to 6pm
Saturday, Sunday and public holidays: 10am to 7pm
Closed on Thursdays (except public holidays)
Venue: Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre, Kowloon Park, Haiphong Road, Tsim Sha Tsui
Note: Docent services in Cantonese, Putonghua and English are available on Saturday, Sunday and public holidays. Enrolment on-site is welcome and no advance booking is required.

For more details about the exhibition and docent services, as well as a highlight video of the exhibition, please visit the Antiquities and Monuments Office website (www.amo.gov.hk/en/visitor-centre/exhibitions/heritage-discovery-centre/han-exhibition/index.html).

Download key exhibition information and images HERE
Click here to download high- resolution photo

Captions:

1. The opening ceremony of the exhibition titled “The Majestic Han: A Golden Age of Vigour and Cultural Integration” was held today (March 19) at the Hong Kong Heritage Discovery Centre. Photo shows the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn (centre); the Director of Art Exhibitions China, Mr Tan Ping (second right); the Second-level Inspector of the Department of Publicity, Cultural and Sports Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr Chen Xinyu (second left); the Chairman of the Antiquities Advisory Board, Professor Desmond Hui (first right); and the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Built Heritage Conservation, Professor Douglas So (first left), officiating at the opening ceremony.
2. Photo shows the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, delivering a speech at the opening ceremony.
3. Photo shows the Director of Art Exhibitions China, Mr Tan Ping, delivering a speech at the opening ceremony.
4. Photo shows the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn (first right); the Director of Art Exhibitions China, Mr Tan Ping (second right); the Chairman of the Antiquities Advisory Board, Professor Desmond Hui (second left); and the Chairman of the Advisory Committee on Built Heritage Conservation, Professor Douglas So (first left), touring the exhibition.
5. Photo shows the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn (right); the Director of Art Exhibitions China, Mr Tan Ping (centre); and other guests, touring the exhibition.
6. Photo shows the Han precious bronze horse-leading figurine and bronze horse.
7. Photo shows an eaves end tile with Chinese characters Han Bing Tian Xia (Han unifies the realm).
8. Photo shows a seven‑storey painted pottery granary house with linked pavilion.
9. Photo shows the Yi Li (Etiquette and rites) wooden slips.
10.Photo shows the silk letter from Yuan to Zifang unearthed at the Xuanquan relay station site in Dunhuang.
11.Photo shows the arithmetical slips unearthed at the Xuanquan relay station site in Dunhuang.
12. Photo shows a silk-padded robe with Chang Shou (longevity) embroidery on a crimson-purple juan (plain weave silk) ground.
13.Photo shows a lacquered wooden plate with leopard cat motif and Chinese characters Jun Xing Shi (food for the honoured guest).
14.Photo shows a silver box with garlic pattern.
15. Photo shows a pottery house unearthed at Lei Cheng Uk Han Tomb in Hong Kong.
16. Photo shows a Wuzhu bronze coin unearthed at the So Kwun Wat site in Tuen Mun.

Hashtag: #TheMajesticHan

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/2026/03/20/the-majestic-han-a-golden-age-of-vigour-and-cultural-integration-exhibition-opens/

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Employment Issues – MBIE still fighting to cut flexible work as third mediation looms and Employment Relations Authority hearing set – PSA

Source: PSA

MBIE’s controversial and unlawful crackdown on flexible work arrangements protected under its collective agreement with workers will be subject to a third round of mediation with the PSA in Wellington today.
If mediation fails, a three-day hearing before the Employment Relations Authority will follow on 31 March to 2 April.
“Flexible work is more important than ever with household budgets hit by rising petrol price – MBIE needs to stop defending its new Flexible Work Policy which is out of step with modern workplaces,” said Fleur Fitzsimons, National Secretary for the Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi.
“MBIE cannot simply tear up collective agreements that provide for flexible work.
“The policy rides roughshod over its obligations under the collective agreement which binds MBIE to support flexible work. If mediation fails, we will be seeking a determination from the ERA that MBIE is violating the ‘flexible by default’ approach which forms part of its collective agreement with members.
‘Flexible by default’ means employees at MBIE have a right to flexible work arrangements which suit their individual circumstances unless there is a good business reason not to.
“MBIE should be leading the way on flexible work, as should all public sector employers where it’s practical to do so, not spending public money fighting in the ERA to take it away. ACC heard its workers and backed down. It’s time for MBIE to do the same.”
MBIE introduced its new Flexible Work Policy last year to align with the Government’s directive to restrict working from home across the public service. The policy requires all existing flexible work arrangements to be renegotiated and reviewed every six months with the explicit aim of reducing days worked from home.
“We urge MBIE and all government agencies to take heed of the times. With petrol prices rising, working from home is one of the most practical ways public servants can ease the pressure on their household budgets. Every day working from home is a real saving on fuel and commuting costs,” Fitzsimons said.
The PSA is also challenging the Government’s broader flexible work restrictions at the ERA through separate proceedings against Te Kawa Mataaho Public Service Commission.
“Public sector employers need to see flexible work as a win-win, and the way of modern workplaces the world over,” Fitzsimons said.
ENDS
Background: The PSA filed ERA proceedings against MBIE in July 2025 after a first mediation failed. A second ERA-ordered mediation was held in December 2025. A third mediation is scheduled for 20 March 2026. If unresolved, a three-day ERA hearing follows on 31 March to 2 April 2026 in Wellington.
Previous statements
The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/20/employment-issues-mbie-still-fighting-to-cut-flexible-work-as-third-mediation-looms-and-employment-relations-authority-hearing-set-psa/

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Li Ning Company Limited Announces 2025 Annual Results

Source: Media Outreach

Anchored in a “Single Brand, Multi-categories, Diversified Channels” Strategy
Technology and Premium Sports Resources Drive Our Competitive Edge

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

  • During the year, the Group recorded the following operating results:
    • Revenue rose by 3.2% to RMB29,598 million; gross profit margin declined by 0.4 percentage points to 49%
    • Net operating cash inflow was RMB4,852 million
    • Net profit attributable to equity holders was RMB2,936 million with net profit margin of 9.9%, and EBITDA margin was 20.8%
  • Working capital remained at a healthy level:
    • The percentage of gross average working capital to revenue was 7.7%
    • The cash conversion cycle was at 37 days, two days longer than last year
  • The Board has recommended the payment of final dividend of RMB23.36 cents per ordinary share for the year ended 31 December 2025, together with the interim dividend of RMB33.59 cents per ordinary share paid in September 2025, the total dividend for the year ended 31 December 2025 will amount to RMB56.95 cents per ordinary share or a total dividend payout ratio of 50%.

OPERATIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

  • The retail sell-through for the overall platform remained flat, including online and offline channels.
  • Offline new product sell-through accounted for 83% of overall offline sell-through, maintaining at healthy and reasonable level.
  • The overall channel inventory turnover was at 4 months, channel inventory level and ageing structure remained healthy.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 March 2026 – Li Ning Company Limited (the “Company” or “Li Ning Company”; together with the subsidiaries, the “Group”; stock codes: 2331 (HKD counter) and 82331 (RMB counter)) today announced its audited annual results for the year ended 31 December 2025 (the “Year”).

Financial Results

In 2025, the Group continued to enhance the technological features of its products, optimising channel efficiency, and strengthening the brand’s professional positioning, delivering stable operating performance. During the year, the Group’s revenue amounted to RMB29,598 million, representing an increase of 3.2% compared with 2024 (2024: RMB28,676 million). Gross profit amounted to RMB14,489 million, up 2.4% from 2024 (2024: RMB14,156 million). The overall gross profit margin decreased by 0.4 percentage points to 49.0% (2024: 49.4%).

During the year, the net profit attributable to equity holders was RMB2,936 million (2024: RMB3,013 million). The margin of net profit attributable to equity holders was 9.9% (2024: 10.5%). Return on equity attributable to equity holders was 10.9% (2024: 11.9%). Basic earnings per share was RMB113.91 cents (2024: RMB116.98 cents). The Board has recommended the payment of a final dividend of RMB23.36 cents per ordinary share for the year ended 31 December 2025. Together with the interim dividend of RMB33.59 cents per ordinary share paid in September 2025, the total dividend for the year ended 31 December 2025 will amount to RMB56.95 cents per ordinary share or a total dividend payout ratio of 50% (2024: 50%).

In cash flow management, the Group’s net cash generated from operating activities during the year amounted to RMB4,852 million (2024: RMB5,268 million). As at 31 December 2025, cash and cash equivalents (including cash at banks and on hand, and fixed-term deposits with an original maturity of no more than three months) amounted to RMB16,717 million, an increase of RMB9,218 million compared with 31 December 2024. Adding back the amount recorded as fixed-term deposits held at banks, cash balance at 31 December 2025 amounted to RMB19,973 million, representing a net increase of RMB1,833 million compared with 31 December 2024. During the year, revenue increased year-on-year, while cash-based expenses including marketing costs and tax payments rose, coupled with the settlement time lag of e-commerce platforms, leading to a year-on-year decrease in net cash generated from operating activities. Meanwhile, the maturity and redemption of time deposits led to a significant increase in net cash generated from investing activities. The Group will continue to place extra emphasis on cash flow management to ensure the stable development of the Company in the long term.

Operational Summary

In 2025, the Group remained anchored in its “Single Brand, Multi-categories, Diversified Channels” strategy, advancing development through product upgrades, channel optimisation, and brand marketing.

The Group focused on six core categories—running, basketball, training, badminton, table tennis and sports casual—while actively pursuing opportunities in emerging fields and exploring new sports subcategories, such as outdoor, tennis and pickleball. During the year, the Group continued to upgrade its products through technological innovation and enhance the deployment of professional sports resources, guided by three key pillars: reinforcing a professional sports mindset, showcasing sports-fashion aesthetics, and honouring Chinese cultural heritage. In addition, it worked proactively to strengthen brand influence and increase brand recognition and visibility through diversified, and comprehensive marketing campaigns.

As the official partner of the Chinese Olympic Committee, the Group leveraged its deep expertise and strong professional sports credibility to blend sportsmanship with cutting-edge technology and Eastern aesthetics—all under the narrative theme “China’s Glory, Together with LI-NING.” During the year, it opened the world’s first LI-NING “Loong Store” and launched the “Glory Gold Label” product series, transforming exclusive, top-tier scarce sports resources into a driving force for brand reputation and market recognition, continuously strengthening consumers’ perception of LI-NING’s professional capabilities and product reliability.

In terms of channel development, the Group continued to advance a multi-dimensional channel network layout to expand market coverage while enhancing operational efficiency. In high-end markets, the Group deepened synergistic collaborations with top-tier commercial complexes and leading outlet malls, jointly promoting the planning and implementation of innovative stores. During the year, the Group successfully launched an independent outdoor store “COUNTERFLOW”, marking an important milestone for the brand’s official entry into the outdoor segment. The Group actively carried out cross-industry collaborations, partnering with top IPs embodying Chinese cultural heritage such as the Palace Museum, and launched marketing campaigns by collaborating with channel partners through diverse initiatives, effectively improving brand reach and conversion. In terms of efficiency enhancement, the Group continued to optimize the channel structure and improved rental structures and cooperation models, enhancing overall channel health and operational sustainability through a series of strategic optimization measures. As of 31 December 2025, the LI-NING brand (including LI-NING Core Brand and LI-NING YOUNG) operated a total of 7,609 conventional stores, flagship stores, China LI-NING stores, factory outlets, and multi-brand stores, representing a net increase of 24 POS compared with 31 December 2024.

In terms of retail operations, the Group built a highly profitable, efficient, and replicable single-store operating model. In high-level markets, targeted brand strategies were implemented across key regions, strengthening brand image and improving product operation efficiency through optimised channel structure, store product mix, and shopping experience. The Group established a distribution management model to improve operational efficiency and sustainable development capabilities of the distribution system. In addition, the Group strengthened the efficient coordination between retail outlets and the logistics system. Through refined planning systems, flexible supply chain construction and digital support, channel inventory turnover and full lifecycle product management were realised, thereby comprehensively improving operational quality and efficiency.

In terms of e-commerce operations, the Group made precise deployments that effectively enhanced consumer awareness and market share during major e-commerce campaigns such as Tmall Celebration Day and Tmall Super Product Day. During the year, core IP products such as “Zhui Feng”, “DLO”, “ULTRALIGHT” and “LI REN” delivered outstanding performance, successfully penetrating multiple consumer segments including Gen Z, professional sports and trendy fashion, ranking highly in both sales and reputation across segmented markets. By leveraging top athletes, celebrities, trending events and channel resources, the Group not only enhanced product exposure and achieved traffic acquisition and promotional sales conversion, helping inventory optimisation, but also supported offline business and drove overall revenue growth.

In terms of supply chain, the Group continuously optimised the supplier matrix, aligning high-quality supplier resources for high-end sports, outdoor, premium and sponsored product lines. Meanwhile, the Group aligned with its major product plan by adopting segmented production planning and data-driven management to achieve high-level coordination among product planning, supply chain, logistics, and retail outlets. To improve operational efficiency, the Group adopted multiple measures such as integration of fabric resources, optimization of process structures, large-scale procurement of materials and staggered production scheduling, further improving the cost structure, while enhancing production efficiency. In addition, the Group continued to integrate sustainable development into supply chain management and promoted green products, with the proportion of eco-friendly products exceeding annual targets during the year.

In terms of logistics, the Group launched a channel logistics project to connect the order system with logistics operations, improving product circulation efficiency and fulfilment timeliness. On the digital front, the Group introduced a warehouse coordination system and adopted SKU-level refined management. In terms of automation, automated equipment was introduced into various warehouses, enabling multi-scenario coverage and data visualization management. In December 2025, the East China and North China warehouses took the lead in adopting RFID full-process warehouse management, achieving full-process traceability of logistics data, greatly strengthening inventory management precision, and deployment across all warehouses is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2026 to continuously drive cost reduction and efficiency improvement.

In terms of its kidswear business, LI-NING YOUNG continued to focus on professional sports and children’s developmental needs, advancing product optimization and exclusive IP creation. In terms of channel strategy, the Group continued to strengthen outlet channel development, improve single-store efficiency and optimize overall channel structure while accelerating its e-commerce deployment. LI-NING YOUNG maintained a coordinated development of wholesale and direct retail. Through refined management and strategic layout, both scale and quality were improved. In terms of marketing, LI-NING YOUNG centred its efforts around three core pillars “Event Cooperation + User Stories + IP Collaboration” to build professional recognition and accumulate its user foundation, successfully expanding its influence among youth and family demographics. As at 31 December 2025, the total number of LI-NING YOUNG POS was 1,518, representing a net increase of 50 POS since 31 December 2024.

Outlook

Entering 2026, the Group will seize the development opportunities arising from the continuous release of domestic demand potential. The Group will remain committed to its core value of “serving the public with sportsmanship,” meticulously refine its “LI-NING’s experience value,” and strive to become the preferred professional sports brand.

1. Technology-driven product upgrades: The Group will firmly implement the development strategy of “Single Brand, Multi-categories, Diversified Channels”, empowering product iterative upgrades with technology to build core competitiveness and market differentiation barriers. Relying on the technical accumulation and R&D of the LI-NING technology innovation platform, the Group will focus on deep cultivation of core categories and actively expand into emerging segments such as outdoor sports. The Group aims to respond to increasingly diversified and personalised consumer demands, achieving full-scenario coverage from professional competitive sports to daily wear. By promoting the ingenious integration of cutting-edge technology and fashion design, the Group will create a product system that combines excellent functionality, technological texture, and aesthetic value. Furthermore, the Group will continuously strengthen the efficiency of transforming scientific and technological achievements, promoting the rapid realization of frontier technologies into product competitiveness.

2. Olympic marketing empowering the brand: The Group will drive value creation through sports marketing, establish emotional connections with consumers, and facilitate the steady enhancement of brand value. By continuously deepening the cooperation with the Chinese Olympic Committee, the Group will seize the development window of the Olympic cycle and promote the brand to achieve a leap from resource cooperation to value co-creation. LI-NING will fully explore the diversified value of the cooperation with the Chinese Olympic Committee. Through systematic marketing layout and technological equipment support, it will convey the story of the mutual growth of LI-NING and Chinese sports, highlighting the technological strength and cultural confidence of the national brand.

3. Dual improvement in quality and efficiency of business operations: The Group will continue to focus on improving quality and efficiency across all aspects of its business. By deepening channel layout, strengthening product operations, and optimising supply chain management, the Group aims to build an efficient operational system, achieve simultaneous improvements in operational quality and efficiency, and lay a solid foundation for the high-quality growth of the enterprise. Offline channels will focus on improving efficiency in high-tier markets and penetrating emerging markets, while exploring new business models. Online channels will strengthen domain synergy and resource integration, promoting complementarity between online and offline channels. In terms of product operations, the Group will optimize the precision of full-chain planning and flexible supply capabilities, and accelerate inventory turnover. The supply chain will achieve coordinated optimization of cost, quality, and delivery time across the entire chain, thereby enhancing overall operational efficiency.

4. Consolidating the foundation to safeguard development: The Group will continuously strengthen three core support capabilities: talent, finance, and digital intelligence, to lay a solid bedrock for high-quality development. In terms of talent strategy, talent development will focus on selection, incentives, and efficiency. In terms of financial management, emphasis will be placed on precise resource allocation and risk control. In terms of digitalization, the Group will promote the deep integration of AI and big data with business operations, enhance operational efficiency and the scientific nature of decision-making, and provide systematic safeguards for the long-term development of the Group.

Mr. Li Ning, Executive Chairman and Joint CEO of the Group, concluded: “2026 marks the first year of the 15th Five-Year Plan. With the strategic goal of accelerating the development of a sports powerhouse, the nation will further unlock sports consumption potential while driving the transformation and upgrading of the sporting goods manufacturing industry. We expect this to release domestic demand potential and create both strong support and a vast stage for the sports industry to thrive.”

“We will remain rooted in the local market while looking ahead, seizing opportunities of the era with greater foresight and more efficient execution. We will continue to deepen the Group’s ‘Single Brand, Multi-categories, Diversified Channels’ strategy, optimising and upgrading our core category matrix while exploring emerging segments. Most importantly, we will keep strengthening the core advantages of our products—professional performance, technological capability, and sports experience—by empowering them with innovative technology and design aesthetics to reward consumer trust.”

Hashtag: #LiNing

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/2026/03/20/li-ning-company-limited-announces-2025-annual-results/

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Melco achieves top result in MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong & Macau 2026

Source: Media Outreach

MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 March 2026 – Melco Resorts & Entertainment has once again solidified its position as a global leader in fine dining, leading Macau in MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong & Macau 2026 with eight MICHELIN Stars across five of its restaurants located in City of Dreams, Studio City and Altira Macau. City of Dreams proudly stands as Macau’s premier gastronomic destination, holding six MICHELIN Stars, the most of any integrated resort in the city.

Jade Dragon at City of Dreams – Three MICHELIN Stars

Unveiled today at the esteemed guide’s 18th edition ceremony, this year’s results see City of Dreams’ Cantonese fine dining restaurant Jade Dragon retain its notable Three MICHELIN Star status for the eighth consecutive year, and Alain Ducasse at Morpheus granted Two MICHELIN Stars for the eighth consecutive year. Additionally, Melco’s signature Cantonese‑Chaozhou restaurant Pearl Dragon at Studio City and Cantonese restaurant Ying at Altira Macau, and Japanese restaurant Sushi Kinetsu at City of Dreams each proudly maintain their One MICHELIN Star honors. Innovative Chinese restaurant Yí at City of Dreams was also recommended by the MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong Macau 2026.

Mr. Lawrence Ho, Chairman & CEO of Melco, said, “It is truly a privilege to have our culinary teams recognized by the MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong & Macau in this historic centenary year of the MICHELIN Star. Over the years, our team has consistently maintained its exceptionally high standards, demonstrating professionalism and a commitment to quality. These prestigious accolades are a result of the tireless efforts and close collaboration of our Colleagues; their commitment to excellence is the cornerstone that drives us forward.

“Looking ahead, we remain dedicated to supporting Macau’s development as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy in consistently delivering world-class, innovative dining experiences. We eagerly anticipate welcoming our guests from around the world to savor the exceptional cuisine and culinary artistry we have to offer.”

At the MICHELIN Guide Ceremony whichtook place today in Macau, Melco properties’ restaurants received the following honors:

Jade Dragon – 3 MICHELIN Stars
Three MICHELIN-Starred Cantonese restaurant Jade Dragon showcases exquisite culinary masterpieces created with the freshest seasonal ingredients and delectable delicacies. With spectacular designer décor and superlative personalized service, Jade Dragon sets the benchmark for fine dining in Macau, being the only Cantonese restaurant in Greater China awarded with both Three MICHELIN Stars and Three Black Pearl Diamonds. Recent honors and awards include:

  • MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong & Macau Three Stars (2019-2026)
  • Black Pearl Restaurant Guide Three Diamonds (2020-2025)
  • Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating (2014-2026)
  • Trip.com Gourmet’s Black Diamond award (2021-2023, 2026), Diamond award (2024-2025)
  • Harper’s BAZAAR HK’s Restaurant of the Year (2026), BAZAAR Taste Elite Macao (2024-2026)
  • Tatler Best Awards Asia Pacific’s Best 100 Restaurants (2024-2025)
  • Tatler Best Awards Hong Kong & Macau’s Restaurant of the Year Macau (2025), Best 20 Restaurants Macau (2025)
  • Tatler Dining Guide’s Top 20 Macau Restaurants List (2024)
  • South China Morning Post’s 100 Top Tables (2014-2025)
  • TARGET ELITE SELECT Awards’ Chinese Restaurant of the Year (2025), Cantonese Restaurant of the Year (2024)
  • TimeOut Beijing Food & Bar Awards’ Cantonese Restaurant of the Year (2025)
  • China Feast Restaurants Awards’ Annual Influential Restaurants (2025)
  • La Liste’s Top 1,000 World’s Best Restaurants (2025)
  • Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence (2014-2025)
  • World Culinary Awards’ Asia’s Best Hotel Restaurant (2025), Macao’s Best Hotel Restaurant (2022-2025)
  • Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia’s Macau Tastemakers List (2024-2025)
  • Three Stars in Golden Phoenix Tree China Restaurant Guide (2024-2025)


Alain Ducasse at Morpheus – 2 MICHELIN Stars
Awarded Two MICHELIN Stars, Alain Ducasse at Morpheus redefines legendary French classics with a contemporary vision and sentimental approach to cooking. The restaurant located at City of Dreams sources produce from the best regions which is harvested at its optimal time, highlighting a deep appreciation for nature and an intimate understanding of the seasons. Sourcing from small-scale farms and line-caught fish, the restaurant ensures unparalleled quality and a distinctive tasting experience. Recent honors and awards include:

  • MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong & Macau Two Stars (2019-2026)
  • Black Pearl Restaurant Guide One Diamond (2024-2025)
  • Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating (2020-2026)
  • Trip.com Gourmet’s Diamond award (2022-2026)
  • Harper’s BAZAAR HK’s BAZAAR Taste Elite Macao (2026)
  • Tatler Best Awards Asia Pacific’s Best 100 Restaurants (2025)
  • Tatler Best Awards Hong Kong & Macau’s Best Service (2025), Best 20 Restaurants Macau (2025)
  • Tatler Dining Guide’s Top 20 Macau Restaurants List (2024)
  • South China Morning Post’s 100 Top Tables (2020-2025)
  • TimeOut Beijing Food & Bar Awards’ French Restaurant of the Year (2025)
  • La Liste’s Top 1,000 World’s Best Restaurants (2025)
  • Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence (2019-2025)
  • TARGET ELITE SELECT Awards’ French Restaurant of the Year (2024)
  • Travel + Leisure Southeast Asia’s Macau Tastemakers List (2024)


Pearl Dragon – 1 MICHELIN Star
Studio City’s MICHELIN-Starred Cantonese‑Chaozhou restaurant Pearl Dragon offers a refined taste of China complemented by sophisticated décor. Dedicated to perfection, Pearl Dragon offers a menu showcasing refined provincial Chinese flavors, innovative culinary creations and the finest delicacies. Recent honors and awards include:

  • MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong & Macau One Star (2017-2026)
  • Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating (2019-2026)
  • Trip.com Gourmet’s Platinum award (2021-2026)
  • LIV Hospitality Design Awards’ Winner in Interior Design Asia (2026)
  • Tatler Best Awards Hong Kong & Macau’s Best 20 Restaurants Macau (2025)
  • Tatler Dining Guide’s Top 20 Macau Restaurants List (2024)
  • South China Morning Post’s 100 Top Tables (2017-2025)
  • TimeOut Beijing Food & Bar Awards’ Cantonese Restaurant of the Year (2025)
  • China Feast Restaurants Awards’ Best Chinese Restaurants (2025)
  • La Liste’s Top 1,000 World’s Best Restaurants (2025)
  • Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence (2016-2025)
  • TARGET ELITE SELECT Awards’ Chinese Restaurant of the Year (2025)


Ying – 1 MICHELIN Star
Awarded the coveted MICHELIN Star, Ying is Altira Macau’s signature restaurant specializing in fine Cantonese cuisine as well as local delicacies created by an exceptionally talented culinary team. Ying is recognized as an outstanding establishment that offers guests a truly exceptional level of luxury and service. Recent honors and awards include:

  • MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong & Macau One Star (2017-2026)
  • Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star rating (2020-2026)
  • South China Morning Post’s 100 Top Tables (2023-2025)
  • China Feast Restaurants Awards’ Best Traditional Cuisine Restaurants (2025)
  • La Liste’s Top 1,000 World’s Best Restaurants (2025)
  • Wine Spectator’s Best of Award of Excellence (2015-2025)


Sushi Kinetsu – 1 MICHELIN Star
Bestowed the coveted MICHELIN Star, Sushi Kinetsu at City of Dreams offers authentic Edomae sushi across a beautiful, centuries old Hinoki wood sushi bar. The tranquil restaurant serves seasonal delicacies using only the finest ingredients, crafted by Japanese master chefs. Recent honors and awards include:

  • MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong & Macau One Star (2024-2026)
  • Black Pearl Restaurant Guide One Diamond (2024-2025)
  • Trip.com Gourmet’s Diamond award (2024-26), Platinum award (2023)
  • Harper’s BAZAAR HK’s BAZAAR Taste Spotlight Macao (2026)
  • Tatler Best Hong Kong & Macau’s restaurant list (2025)

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Hashtag: #melco #michelin #michelinguide #cityofdreamsmacau #studiocity #altiramacau #jadedragon #alainducasseatmorpheus #sushikinetsu #pearldragon #ying #yi

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

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

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Galaxy Macau and StarWorld Hotel Celebrate the Power of Culinary Mastery – Awarded by The MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong & Macau 2026

Source: Media Outreach

MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 March 2026 – Galaxy Macau and StarWorld Hotel have once again reinforced their position as key drivers of Macau’s gastronomic excellence with a collective Five MICHELIN stars in the MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong and Macau 2026. In the 18th edition of the authoritative dining guide and the centenary of the star-rating system – Galaxy Macau and StarWorld Hotel crystalise Galaxy Macau’s leading position at the forefront of the city’s dining scene. The results affirm the Group’s long‑standing commitment to elevating the region’s culinary landscape and cultivating talent, innovation, and consistency across its dining portfolio.

Now in its second year of operation, Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa retains its MICHELIN Star, while 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA and Lai Heen continue their one‑star standing. Over on the Macau Peninsula, Feng Wei Ju at StarWorld Hotel maintains its unrivalled Two‑Star recognition for the tenth consecutive year.

Culinary Excellence Led by Visionary Chefs

Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa, the first international outpost of three‑star sushi master Chef Masaaki Miyakawa, continues to distinguish itself through its meticulous Edomae craftsmanship. Seasonal ingredients sourced directly from Japan ensure the restaurant delivers an experience defined by purity, precision, and the chef’s well‑established and tightly-held relationships with artisanal producers.

Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa continues its stellar trajectory by earning One MICHELIN Star for the second year in a row. Master Chef Masaaki Miyakawa personally accepted the award on behalf of his elite team.

At 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA, Executive Chef Marino D’Antonio showcases Italian cuisine rooted in tradition yet shaped by contemporary technique. Highlighting an unyielding commitment to ingredient‑driven cooking and refined execution, he builds on the culinary legacy of the legendary Chef Umberto Bombana, whose pursuit of “tradition, quality, and consistency” has defined the restaurant’s ethos.

For 11 consecutive years, 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA at Galaxy Macau has held its One MICHELIN Star honour. Executive Chef Marino D’Antonio accepted the 2026 One-star accolade.

Scaling on the 51st floor of The Ritz‑Carlton, Macau, Lai Heen maintains its MICHELIN Star for the tenth year. Under Chinese Executive Chef Jackie Ho Hon Sing, the restaurant demonstrates mastery of Cantonese culinary arts through thoughtful sourcing and a disciplined, technique‑forward approach.

Lai Heen at The Ritz-Carlton, Macau has been awarded the prestigious One MICHELIN Star” for 10 consecutive years. Jackie Ho Hon-sing, Chinese Executive Chef of The Ritz-Carlton, Macau accepted the prestigious award.

Feng Wei Ju, guided by Chef Chan Chek Keong, continues to define Hunan and Sichuan dining in Macau. Its tenth standout consecutive Two‑Star accolade reflects a menu that balances regional authenticity with elevated refinement—where bold, aromatic profiles are executed with exceptional skill.

Feng Wei Ju at StarWorld Hotel has boasted an impressive 10 consecutive years of two-Michelin-starred recognition. Chan Chek Keong, Assistance Vice President of Food & Beverage Culinary of StarWorld Hotel and Executive Chef of Feng Wei Ju accepted the award on behalf his team.

Special Menus Celebrating The 2026 MICHELIN Accolades

To commemorate the MICHELIN Guide distinctions, Galaxy Macau will present a curated series of limited‑time dining experiences:

  • Sushi Kissho by Miyakawa will host exclusive sake‑pairing dinners on March 20–21, featuring seasonal ingredients paired with Sake Hundred and guided by Sommelier Ivan Au Yang, one of only 604 Sakasho sake master sommeliers worldwide.
  • 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA introduces an “Award‑winning Indulgent Lunch” featuring classic Sardinian flavours, available from Thursday to Sunday.
  • Lai Heen launches the commemorative “Splendid Stars Menu,” presenting signature creations such as Crispy Foie Gras Mousse Fritter and Stir‑fried Lobster with Himematsutake and Caviar.
  • Feng Wei Ju unveils a celebratory Degustation Menu showcasing ingredients such as beef loin and sea cucumber, exemplified by its signature Stewed Minced Chicken and Egg White with Matsutake in Bouillon—a hallmark of its culinary craftsmanship.

Committed to Advancing Macau’s Gastronomy Landscape

In a year marked by renewed MICHELIN acclaim, Galaxy Macau and StarWorld Hotel once again demonstrate how heritage‑driven craft and forward‑looking creativity can coexist at the highest level.

In the 18th MICHELIN Guide Hong Kong Macau 2025, Galaxy Macau, the world-class luxury resort, has once again proven its commitment to pushing standards of excellence and shaping new dining experiences that keep Macau firmly on the global gastronomic map.

Both properties will continue to champion Macau’s status as a global dining destination by investing in talent development, ingredient excellence, and guest‑centric gastronomic experiences. Their culinary teams remain committed to elevating standards and shaping new dining experiences that keep Macau firmly on the global gastronomic map.

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

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/2026/03/20/galaxy-macau-and-starworld-hotel-celebrate-the-power-of-culinary-mastery-awarded-by-the-michelin-guide-hong-kong-macau-2026/

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TVB Unveils Artiste-Creator Network (ACN) at MarketingPulse 2026

Source: Media Outreach

How TVB’s ACN is shaping the creator economy by empowering brands to leverage premium talent-turned-creators for authentic, multi-platform storytelling

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 March 2026 — As the era of Artificial Intelligence (AI) matures, cross-media platforms must innovate at pace to meet the demand for forward-looking marketing solutions. Today, at the Hong Kong Trade Development Council’s (HKTDC) flagship events, MarketingPulse and eTailingPulse, themed “Generate New Growth,” industry leaders gathered to explore the frontiers of agentic AI, phygital commerce, and the evolution of content creation.

The sharing session titled “Beyond Broadcast, Beyond Borders: The Social Appeal and Commercial Value of TVB Artiste-Creators” was moderated by Mr. Kevin SHUI, Chief Marketing Officer of Starry (1st left), and featured in-depth exchanges with Ms. Alexandra LO, CEO of TaRa Innovation Limited & TaRa Bloom (HK & Asia), and Assistant Adjunct Professor at HKU Business School (1st right); popular TVB artistes Bowie CHEUNG (2nd left), and Tony HUNG (2nd right).

Television Broadcasts Limited (TVB), a world renowned cross-media platform, marked the occasion by introducing the TVB Artiste-Creator Network (ACN). This strategic initiative integrates TVB’s robust marketing ecosystem with its extensive roster of talent to offer a digital-first, influence-driven solution for modern brands.

Mr. SIU Sai Wo, General Manager (Business Operations) of TVB, stated, “With the largest talent pool of artistes in Hong Kong and an unparalleled, loyal audience, TVB remains at the forefront of influence. In this new AI-driven landscape, we are capitalizing on the inherent credibility our artistes have built on the TV screen and extending it across digital and social ecosystems through the Artiste-Creator Network.

This represents more than a new career trajectory for our talent; it is a sophisticated, integrated marketing engine. By precisely matching brands with the right creators, we provide seamless coverage across every consumer touchpoint—from primetime television to personal mobile screens—enabling brands to scale effectively within the Greater Bay Area and beyond.”

Industry Leaders and Artiste-Creators Convene to Explore the Path to Brand Conversion

At MarketingPulse 2026, TVB hosted a high-level sharing session titled “Beyond Broadcast, Beyond Borders: The Social Appeal and Commercial Value of TVB Artiste-Creators.” Addressing an audience of marketing industry leaders, the session was moderated by Mr. Kevin SHUI, Chief Marketing Officer of Starry and a digital marketing veteran with over 20 years of Asia-Pacific expertise.

The panel featured Ms. Alexandra LO—former Head of Digital at Nestlé HK, current CEO of TaRa Innovation Limited, and Assistant Adjunct Professor at HKU Business School—alongside popular TVB artistes Bowie CHEUNG and Tony HUNG. Together, they explored the strategic cultivation of “cross-platform hybrid content creators,” focusing on how to extend an artiste’s broadcast authority into a powerful, multi-channel digital influence.

Bowie CHEUNG and Tony HUNG shared their first-hand insights on navigating dual identities as traditional artistes and digital creators, highlighting how they engage diverse regional audiences.

Bowie CHEUNG remarked, “Television provided the foundation of recognition and credibility, but social media allows me to layer in my authentic self—sharing my genuine interests, lifestyle, and personal style. This creates a unique point of resonance for fans across different regions, transforming the ‘out-of-reach’ celebrity persona into a relatable, trusted figure who bridges the distance between the screen and the audience.”

Tony HUNG added, “After years as a TVB artiste and a digital creator, I’ve found these two identities to be deeply complementary. By merging the massive reach of broadcast media with the interactivities of social media, brand collaborations can achieve a broader, more multi-layered reach that speaks to consumers at every level of the engagement funnel.”

Strategic Partnership with Starry: AI-Powered Precision in Talent Matching

In a move to further modernize its commercial offering, TVB announced a strategic collaboration with Starry, a leading KOL marketing platform. By integrating Starry’s proprietary AI-driven engine, TVB now provides brand partners with data-backed, high-precision matching for its Artiste-Creator Network (ACN).

Mr. Kevin SHUI, Chief Marketing Officer of Starry, explained, “Traditional platforms often rely on static, pre-set criteria that fail to capture the nuances of influence. Our AI-powered system makes intelligent, real-time adjustments based on the specific DNA of each brand. By analyzing a comprehensive data set—including an artiste’s personality, specialized talents, content sentiment, and social media performance, alongside their broader media reputation—we ensure a seamless, high-conversion match from within TVB’s extensive talent ecosystem.”

Expert Insight: The Irreplaceable Value of Broadcast Trust

Ms. Alexandra LO, CEO of TaRa Innovation Limited & TaRa Bloom (HK & Asia), and Assistant Adjunct Professor at HKU Business School, shared her strategic perspective on the criteria for selecting high-impact KOLs. Ms. LO observed, “In the current marketing landscape, brands have moved beyond simply chasing follower counts. Today’s priorities are engagement quality, brand compatibility, and cross-platform influence. KOL partnerships now allow brand messaging to become truly multi-dimensional through authentic interactions.

TVB artiste-creators hold a significant advantage across all these metrics. The deep-seated trust they have built with the general public through the television screen translates directly into higher brand affinity and business conversion rates, making them a premium commercial asset that is exceptionally difficult to replicate.”

TVB ACN – A Stellar Lineup of Artiste-Creators, The Catalyst for Business Success

A prominent delegation of TVB’s popular artiste-creators attended the event in person, including Judy KWONG, Niklas LAM, Hilary CHONG, Ellyn NGAI, Andrew CHAN, Lucy LI, Karen WU, Derek WONG, Kris LAM, and Arthur SY. The ACN signifies a strategic evolution for TVB’s talent—spanning actors, singers, and performers—who now leverage their massive public recognition to ensure brand communications carry an elite level of credibility. By bridging their established television profiles with deep social media engagement, these creators drive higher-quality digital discourse and superior conversion rates for brand partners.

At this year’s MarketingPulse exhibition, TVB showcased its innovative e-commerce and marketing technologies, demonstrating a seamless transition from Television Primetime to Personal Screen Time. This one-stop content solution, powered by unparalleled star power and advanced matching technology, empowers clients to seize new growth opportunities and achieve sustainable business success.

Hashtag: #TVB #Artiste-Creator #MarketingPulse

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/2026/03/19/tvb-unveils-artiste-creator-network-acn-at-marketingpulse-2026/

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Cushman & Wakefield Ranked No.1 Real Estate Investment Brokerage Firm in Greater China, Hong Kong, and Chinese Mainland Industrial Market in 2025 by MSCI

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 March 2026 – Cushman & Wakefield has been recognized as the top real estate investment brokerage firm in the Greater China* All-sector, Hong Kong All-sector, Hong Kong Office market and Chinese Mainland Industrial market for 2025 by MSCI based on sell-side sales volume. These top rankings highlight the firm’s continued dominance and exceptional performance in the region’s commercial real estate sector.

According to MSCI 2025 Global Broker Rankings, based on sales volume, Cushman & Wakefield represented 28% of all-sector sell-side investment brokerage transactions in Greater China totaling US$2.2 billion. In Hong Kong, the firm secured 36% of all-sector sell-side brokerage volume, worth US$1.2 billion, and 69% of the office sell-side brokerage volume. Furthermore, the team captured a commanding 77% share of the Chinese Mainland Industrial sell-side brokerage market, accounting for US$887 million in transaction value.

*Rankings in Greater China are based on the sum of sell-side brokerage transaction volume in the Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong China and Taiwan China.

KK Chiu, International Director and Chief Executive, Greater China at Cushman & Wakefield, said, “The MSCI global brokerage ranking reinforces our leading market share in Greater China and in Hong Kong. We stand out from our peers in our deep local market knowledge and connections with both international and domestic capital, which enables us to serve our investor clients throughout market cycles. In addition, we have fostered strong collaboration between our teams in the Chinese mainland and in Hong Kong, enabling us to swiftly capitalize on cross-border opportunities and ensure seamless deal execution for our clients.”

The Hong Kong market experienced a significant rebound late last year, driven by major end-user acquisitions. Francis Li, International Director, Vice President and Head of Capital Markets, Greater China at Cushman & Wakefield, detailed the market’s momentum. “We saw strong liquidity coming back to Hong Kong in 2H last year, including the acquisition by Alibaba and Ant Group of multiple floors at One Causeway Bay for use as their Hong Kong headquarters, a landmark deal brokered by us,” said Li. “Our data shows that full-year commercial real estate investment volume in Hong Kong grew by 33% year-over-year in 2025. At the same time, Hong Kong’s residential and student housing markets are also garnering significant interest from investors.”

In addition to the success in Hong Kong, Li mentioned, “The Cushman & Wakefield Capital Markets team has completed several large logistics deals in the Chinese mainland in the last three years, totaling more than RMB10 billion. These significant transactions reinforce our strong local team capability and resilience when navigating complex market challenges.”

In addition to en-bloc logistics transactions, Cushman & Wakefield has also played a significant role in facilitating industrial investments, including factories and R&D centers, and particularly in assisting leading international companies in establishing a presence in China. Tony Su, Managing Director, National Head of Industrial & Logistics Property Services, China, said: “Despite the challenges faced by China’s logistics and industrial sectors, our team delivered an exceptional performance in 2025. We successfully completed transactions with numerous high-profile, industry leading clients, particularly in the biopharmaceuticals, new materials, and premium food sectors. These partnerships stimulated the local economy, set new industry benchmarks, and inspired a wave of policy innovations. I am extremely proud of the growth and resilience demonstrated by Cushman & Wakefield’s Industrial team in navigating a complex market environment.”

About MSCI

MSCI is a leading provider of critical decision support tools and services for the global investment community. With over 50 years of expertise in research, data and technology, MSCI power better investment decisions by enabling clients to understand and analyze key drivers of risk and return and confidently build more effective portfolios. MSCI creates industry-leading research-enhanced solutions that clients use to gain insight into and improve transparency across the investment process.

Hashtag: #Cushman&Wakefield

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/2026/03/19/cushman-wakefield-ranked-no-1-real-estate-investment-brokerage-firm-in-greater-china-hong-kong-and-chinese-mainland-industrial-market-in-2025-by-msci/

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PT Danantara Investment Management opens DPT registration for PSEL partners

Source: Media Outreach

JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 March 2026 – In its efforts to accelerate the energy transition while addressing the growing challenge of urban waste, the government has tapped PT Danantara Investment Management (DIM) to seek capable partners in developing waste-to-energy (WtE) power plant projects, locally known as Pengolahan Sampah Menjadi Energi Listrik (PSEL).

The PSEL program is supported by Presidential Regulation (Perpres) No. 109/2025, which governs urban waste management through environmentally sustainable renewable energy solutions.

The initiative begins with the establishment of a verified providers list (Daftar Penyedia Terverifikasi or DPT), a pre-qualification mechanism designed to identify companies with proven track records, strong financial capacity and technical expertise in WtE.

To that end, collaboration with private partners scheme reflects the government’s intention to share risks with the private sector while leveraging its expertise, ensuring that projects are not only delivered but also remain operationally sustainable.

Participation in the DPT is open to single entities and consortiums, both local and foreign, provided their countries maintain diplomatic relations with Indonesia.

In addition, DIM has appointed an independent registration and verification (R&V) agent to ensure a credible and transparent process, ensuring that prospective partners included in the list undergo a structured and transparent evaluation.

“The program is designed to ensure that the establishment of the DPT is carried out in a transparent and systematic manner, in line with good governance principles,” PT Danantara Investment Management said in an official statement.

The submission period for verification documents will run from March 25 to April 25, with DIM set to hold virtual technical discussions (aanwijzing) in two cycles to provide further clarity on technical requirements. The first cycle is scheduled for March 26, followed by the second on April 1. Each cycle will include two sessions to accommodate across different time zones.

While attendance at the aanwijzing sessions is not mandatory, they are expected to serve as an important forum for prospective participants to better understand the application requirements before submitting final documents through the official channel.

Interested companies can write indication of interest by email through registrationwte@danantaraindonesia.com

For further information, providers may refer to

https://www.danantaraindonesia.co.id/media-center/highlight/dim-waste-to-energy-verified-participants-list-registration-2026

Hashtag: #Danantara

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/2026/03/19/pt-danantara-investment-management-opens-dpt-registration-for-psel-partners/

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Chubb Life Hong Kong Celebrates 50th Anniversary with Life Chapters at Art Basel Hong Kong 2026 Connecting Art, Wealth and Legacy

Source: Media Outreach

  • Chubb Life Hong Kong returns as Official Show Partner of Art Basel Hong Kong for the third consecutive year.
  • Thai artist Wit Pimkanchanapong debuts immersive installation, Life Chapters, exploring how every action defines legacy.
  • The partnership with Art Basel enables Chubb Life Hong Kong to engage High-Net-Worth individuals (HNWIs) by integrating art assets into the broader conversation of wealth transfer and legacy planning.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 March 2026 – To mark its 50th anniversary, Chubb Life Hong Kong presents Life Chapters, an immersive installation by Bangkok-based artist Wit Pimkanchanapong, at Art Basel Hong Kong 2026 (March 27–29). As Art Basel’s Official Show Partner for the third consecutive year, Chubb Life Hong Kong reaffirms the company’s longstanding role in safeguarding what truly matters, and protecting customers’ lifetime of work.

Hosted in the Chubb Life Hong Kong Lounge near the Hall 1D entrance at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Life Chapters invites visitors to reflect on how every action shapes the journeys and legacies they leave behind. The artwork leads visitors through shifting paths and walls that reveal changing perspectives, reflecting that each action taken defines a life journey. Each step highlights a central theme: securing what matters most allows individuals to honor their unique journeys and the legacies they leave behind.

“As Chubb Life Hong Kong turns 50, beginning our anniversary year at Art Basel is a deliberate choice,” said Belinda Au, President of Chubb Life Hong Kong and Head of North Asia. “Our clients entrust us with what is irreplaceable – their families, their futures and their enduring legacy that reflects a lifetime of work. By bringing Life Chapters to Art Basel, we are highlighting a belief that runs through our 50th Anniversary campaign: every action is a legacy. Our role is to give customers the protection and clarity to take mindful actions with confidence.”

This commitment to safeguarding what matters most and recognizing the role of art in legacy planning is underpinned by Chubb’s global reputation as a long‑standing patron and insurer of the arts. With Hong Kong established as one of the world’s leading art trading hubs, and research showing that high-net-worth individuals allocated an average of 20% of their wealth to art collections, art is also an increasingly important part of client portfolios and a key consideration in asset portfolio and legacy planning for high-net-worth individuals.

The Art Basel installation marks the beginning of a year-long program celebrating Chubb Life Hong Kong’s 50th Anniversary, including cultural partnerships, community initiatives and conversations on life, legacy and intergenerational planning. Across this year, these activities will honor five decades of helping people in Hong Kong protect their aspirations and live the lives they imagine.

Appendix

About Life Chapters

At Art Basel Hong Kong 2026 (March 27–29), Chubb Life Hong Kong will present Life Chapters (hosted in the Chubb Life Hong Kong Lounge near the Hall 1D entrance at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre), an immersive installation by Bangkok-based artist Wit Pimkanchanapong that explores life-defining moments that shape an individual’s path.

As patrons navigate the shifting, maze-like environment within Chubb Life’s lounge, they’ll encounter subtle cues – objects, sounds, phrases – that serve as portals for reflection, while shifting walls, semi-transparent surfaces, and changing sightlines will heighten visitors’ awareness of one another and create a shared experience.

Life Chapters leaves space for viewers to construct their own readings. Instead of guiding them toward a single conclusion, the installation encourages experimentation and responsiveness, rewarding those who explore its possibilities. The pathways visitors trace – deliberate or intuitive – suggest the fluidity with which life can pivot, open or be reimagined. In this sense, the work is completed by participation: each passage through the maze inscribes a new layer of meaning, making the audience an active contributor to the artwork’s evolving form.

The work embodies Chubb Life Hong Kong’s belief that every action is a legacy – that what we do, however small, reshapes the paths available to ourselves and others.

About Wit Pimkanchanapong

Wit Pimkanchanapong is a Bangkok-based artist. Born in 1976 in Bangkok, Pimkanchanapong graduated from the faculty of Architecture, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand in 1992 and received a MA in Visual Communication, Electronic Media & Time-Based Media, from Kent Institute of Art & Design, Maidstone, UK in 1994.

Wit identifies the special qualities of particular spaces, materials and multimedia from an architectural viewpoint and causes them to reflect the uniqueness of the region or place, transforming these into spaces that bring awareness to the viewer. He also creates places where people can share artworks, via an idiosyncratic mechanism combining media technology and everyday items.

Maze as a concept has become an important form in Pimkanchanapong’s work since 2021. Its origins come from his encounter with a Buddhist maze ceremony on the northern border of Thailand, which opened a way for him to bring together art, architecture, design and technology. He sees the maze as a literal representation of life: it is not linear or predetermined, and it contains many entry points, shifting routes, and unexpected possibilities. Viewers of the work may move forward, reach a dead end, and then find a new path — a rhythm the artist connects with the “rebirths” one can experience over a lifetime.

Exhibitions and shows:

  • Paraphernalia, Galerie du Haïdouc, Bourges, France (2003)
  • Have We Met?, Japan Foundation Forum, Tokyo, Japan (2004).
  • Bangkok Bangkok, La Capella, Barcelona (2005)
  • Politics of Fun, Haus der Kulturen der Welt, Berlin (2005)
  • Yokohama Triennale, Yokohama, Japan (2005)
  • Mairie de 6e, Paris, France (2006)
  • Temporary Art Museum SoiSabai with Yoshitomo Nara, Silpakorn Universiity, Bangkok (2006)
  • Some Proposals for the Next Future, Silpakorn University, Bangkok (2007)
  • Sharjah Biennale, Sharjah, UAE; Animated Painting, San Diego Art Museum (2007)
  • The 7th Asian Pacific Triennial of Contemporary Art (APT7), Queensland Art Gallery, Brisbane (2009)

Previous works:

  • 《 Mist》 . Installation view at Central Plaza, Chieng Rai, Thailand, 2011.
  • Myarab (Fawn). New World Mall, Banglamphu – Bangkok Design Week 2026, 29 Jan – 8 Feb 2026
  • Baan Bardo: Wonderfruits, Pattaya, Thailand, Dec 2025
  • Not Quite a Total Eclipse – 100 Tonson Gallery, Bangkok, 2009
  • Planetary Seed, 100 Tonson Gallery, Bangkok, 2024
  • Octave Maze, Sonic Voyage: A Journey of Rhythmic Flair exhibition by One Bangkok Retail and Cat Radio

Hashtag: #Chubb

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/2026/03/19/chubb-life-hong-kong-celebrates-50th-anniversary-with-life-chapters-at-art-basel-hong-kong-2026-connecting-art-wealth-and-legacy/

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KCM Trade Celebrates Its 10th Anniversary with Exclusive Sailing Sponsorship in Sydney

Source: Media Outreach

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 March 2026 – In 2026, KCM Trade proudly celebrates its 10th anniversary — a significant milestone made possible by the continued trust and support of its valued clients. To mark this special occasion, the company has announced its sponsorship of a premium sailing event in Sydney.

In partnership with the renowned yacht charter company Sydney by Sail, the event is themed “2026 KCM Trade Sailing Sydney | A Decade of Progress, A New Chapter Ahead.” Designed as an exclusive celebration at sea, the private sailing gathering will bring together distinguished clients for an unforgettable experience that seamlessly blends festivity with meaningful connection.

Premium Yachts and an Elegant Atmosphere

To honour the occasion, KCM Trade has carefully selected high-specification sailing yachts renowned for their exceptional performance and superior comfort. Thoughtfully designed to balance elegance with practicality, each vessel is fully equipped with premium leisure amenities and comprehensive onboard facilities.

Set against the crystal-clear waters and expansive blue skies of Sydney, guests will enjoy the gentle sea breeze and the sight of graceful sails while engaging in relaxed conversation. The refined yet natural setting creates the ideal environment to strengthen relationships and foster deeper connections.

A Decade of Dedication and Industry Recognition

Since its establishment, KCM Trade has remained committed to professionalism, with innovation at the heart of its development. Over the past ten years, the company has steadily expanded its presence across the global financial markets, earning widespread recognition for its quality products and services, cutting-edge technological infrastructure, and comprehensive client protection.

Throughout this journey, KCM Trade has launched proprietary intelligent trading tools and actively supported a range of financial education initiatives, strengthening its brand influence while fulfilling its corporate social responsibilities.

Advancing Together Towards the Future

This sailing event not only reflects the achievements of KCM Trade’s first decade but also serves as an important opportunity to deepen client relationships and look ahead to the future together.

Moving forward, KCM Trade will continue to uphold its win–win philosophy, delivering enhanced services, forward-thinking innovation, and unwavering commitment. Together with its clients, the company will confidently navigate the evolving industry landscape and craft the next chapter of shared success.

https://www.linkedin.com/company/kcmtrade-global/
https://x.com/kcmtradenigeria?s=21
https://www.facebook.com/share/1Hg7xa9Js2/?mibextid=wwXIfr
https://www.instagram.com/kcm_trade_global?igsh=MTJ5Y2QydmJxY2Ziag==

Hashtag: #KCMTrade #kcmtrade10yrs #Globalbrokers #Sponsor #Sailing

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/2026/03/19/kcm-trade-celebrates-its-10th-anniversary-with-exclusive-sailing-sponsorship-in-sydney/

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1exchange and Capitaux Partner to List NVDAt, among the First ISIN-Backed Tokenized NVIDIA Stock

Source: Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 March 2026 – 1exchange, a leading regulated RWA exchange for listing and trading RWA tokens, has entered a strategic partnership with Capitaux, the issuer of NVDAt, an ISIN-registered tokenized security referencing NVIDIA shares. The collaboration is set to bring NVDAt, ISIN-backed tokenized NVIDIA stock, to global investors, establishing a new benchmark for credibility and standardization in the global RWA tokenization market.
NVDAt is structured as a 1:1 asset-backed tokenized representation of NVIDIA shares, designed for compliant and efficient on-chain trading upon listing. ISIN registration enhances transparency, interoperability, and institutional recognizability across trading, settlement, and reporting systems. By supporting issuers in obtaining ISIN registration, 1exchange enables clearer identification and stronger alignment with established financial standards for RWA tokens.
With transparent and compliant architecture, independent third-party custody, and institutional grade blockchain security, Capitaux enables institutions to transform real-world assets into globally tradable digital securities. 1exchange is actively building its listing-to-trading ecosystem to bring high-quality and compliant RWA tokens to investors worldwide. The forthcoming listing of NVDAt further strengthens 1exchange’s tokenized product offering, supporting the scalable growth of the RWA tokenization market.
“By introducing an ISIN-backed RWA token in partnership with Capitaux, we will be bringing institutional-grade compliance standards into the on-chain RWA tokenization market.” says Sheena Lim, CEO of 1exchange, “Our focus is to make the listing and trading of RWA tokens more transparent, structured, and accessible for investors.”

Hashtag: #1exchange #tokenization #toenizedstocks #RWA

https://www.1x.exchange/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/1-exchange/

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

About 1exchange

1exchange, a member of FOMO Group, is a leading exchange for Real-World Assets (RWA) security tokens and private listings, licensed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). Offering full-stack on-chain infrastructure, the platform enables issuers to list enterprise-grade RWAs, while enabling investors to trade modern digital assets in a regulated secondary market, unlocking global liquidity.
Visit www.1x.exchange for more information. For media inquiries, please contact media@1x.exchange.


Disclaimer:
The information contained in this article is provided strictly for general informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial advice, investment advice, an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to purchase or subscribe for any securities or financial products listed or traded on 1exchange (“1X”).
Investments involve risks, including the possible loss of principal. Past performance is not necessarily indicative of future performance.
Readers should carefully consider their investment objectives, financial circumstances, and risk tolerance, and should conduct their own independent research. Where appropriate, readers are encouraged to seek advice from a qualified financial professional before making any investment decisions.
This article has not been reviewed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore.

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/1exchange-and-capitaux-partner-to-list-nvdat-among-the-first-isin-backed-tokenized-nvidia-stock/

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Fire Safety – North Waikato moves to restricted fire season

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Fire and Emergency New Zealand has declared a restricted fire season for North Waikato from 4pm Thursday 19 March until further notice.
During a restricted fire season people wanting to light outdoor fires must apply to Fire and Emergency for a permit and have it approved.
The North Waikato zone includes the Waikato, Hauraki, Matamata Piako, Waipa, Ōtorohanga and Waitomo territorial authorities, and Hamilton City.  
Announcing the fire season change District Manager Daryl Trim says drier conditions during late summer and early autumn have triggered the change.
“Despite regular rainfall, the fire risk in North Waikato is increasing,” Daryl Trim says.
“We’ve had an increase in the number of vegetation fires including several large fires.
“While these have been controlled and extinguished, we anticipate fhese fires will likely become more frequent.
“Having a restricted fire season gives us greater control of who can burn and when, and we can provide direct fire safety advice to those completing burns,” he says.
“A restricted season will reduce the risk to persons and property.”
The Thames-Coromandel District remains in a restricted fire season.
Go to www.checkitsalright.nz for full details of the fire season status and what activities are restricted or banned.

MIL OSI

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/fire-safety-north-waikato-moves-to-restricted-fire-season/

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Can Gio: The Emerging Catalyst in Southern Vietnam’s Tourism Transformation

Source: Media Outreach

HCMC, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 March 2026 – Southern Vietnam consistently stands out as one of the country’s most dynamic gateways for international travelers. Anchored by Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam’s economic and financial nucleus, this region benefits from year-round tropical weather and a richly diverse marine ecosystem, positioning it as a natural tourism hub.

In 2025, Ho Chi Minh City recorded the highest visitor volume nationwide, welcoming over 53.5 million arrivals, including approximately 8.5 million international tourists. Yet, a persistent paradox remains. Despite its status as the country’s primary entry point, the city largely functions as a transit node rather than a destination where visitors choose to linger. Many travelers stay only briefly before continuing to established coastal destinations such as Vung Tau, Phu Quoc, or Phan Thiet.

Ho Chi Minh City has yet to fully evolve into a tourism ecosystem capable of sustaining extended stays. The limitation is not solely due to the absence of large-scale, destination-defining developments, but also stems from a more fundamental constraint, connectivity infrastructure. For years, the southern region’s interprovincial transport network has developed unevenly, resulting in prolonged travel times and overreliance on a limited number of arterial routes.

That landscape, however, is entering a period of inflection.

A new wave of infrastructure investment – arguably the most extensive in the region’s history – is being deployed, with Can Gio at its epicenter. The convergence of strategic transport corridors is not only reducing travel friction between economic and tourism centers, but also unlocking the long-overlooked potential of Can Gio, gradually reshaping the broader economic and tourism geography of southern Vietnam.

The city’s long-term vision positions Can Gio as a new growth pole, with projected capacity to attract approximately 40 million visitors annually. This ambition contributes to Vietnam’s national target of welcoming 30-35 million international tourists and 160-180 million domestic travelers by 2030.

A 40-Million-Visitor Hub and the Transformation of Southern Tourism

Historically, Can Gio has been recognized as the “green lung” of Ho Chi Minh City, home to a vast mangrove ecosystem and a UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve spanning approximately 75,000 hectares. Under a new development vision, the district is gradually repositioning itself as “Saigon’s seaside”, a large-scale coastal tourism center located just beyond a metropolitan population of over 10 million.

A series of major infrastructure projects is now converging to redefine Can Gio’s accessibility. For the first time, the area will benefit from a multi-layered transport network, effectively dismantling the geographic isolation that has persisted for decades.

On the aviation axis, Can Gio will connect directly to Long Thanh International Airport, designed to handle up to 100 million passengers annually, via Rung Sac Road and the Ben Luc – Long Thanh Expressway.

On the urban rail axis, the Ben Thanh – Can Gio metro line, expected to commence operations in Q3 2028, will reduce travel time from the city center to the coast to just 13 minutes, shorter than a typical coffee break, effectively integrating Can Gio into the daily living, working, and leisure radius of both residents and visitors.

On the road network, the Can Gio Bridge, scheduled for completion in 2029, will replace the existing Binh Khanh ferry and establish seamless connectivity with regional expressways, embedding Can Gio into both domestic and international logistics networks.

Meanwhile, the Can Gio – Vung Tau sea-crossing route, targeted for completion in early 2029, will open a new coastal tourism corridor, enabling Can Gio to capture a share of the more than 18 million annual visitors currently traveling to Vung Tau.

Complementing this infrastructure backbone, the emergence of Vinhomes Green Paradise is widely viewed as a catalytic force, one capable of activating a new “southern economic and tourism super-map.”

Conceived as an ESG mega-urban development, the project is designed not only to deliver integrated hospitality, entertainment, and lifestyle offerings, but also to function as a central gateway and distribution hub for regional tourist flows.

A True ‘Must-play’ Destination

Commenting on the Vinhomes Green Paradise project in Can Gio, Mike Gorman, Senior Project Architect at RTJ II Golf Course Architects, remarked: “This is going to be completely unique to Vietnam. It will become something people from around the world travel to experience, a true ‘must-play’ destination.”

Its large-scale, experience-driven ecosystem includes: VinWonders Can Gio, envisioned as one of the region’s leading entertainment complexes; two international-standard 18-hole golf courses; a network of 5–6 star hotels and boutique properties totaling nearly 7,000 rooms; the 7-hectare Song Xanh Theater; a five-star Vinmec hospital in collaboration with Cleveland Clinic (USA); and Vin New Horizon, a senior living urban model. This diversified offering enables year-round operations, catering to a wide spectrum of visitor demographics and preferences.

Vinhomes Green Paradise has been conceptualized to align with evolving tourism trends, urban utility integration, and experiential demand, while leveraging Can Gio’s ecological assets to create distinctive, place-based experiences for both visitors and residents. Among hundreds of global participant, Vinhomes Green Paradise has been selected as the first official participant in the “7 Wonders of Future Cities” campaign organized by New7Wonders. Jean-Paul de la Fuente, Director of New7Wonders and President of the campaign, described the project as a compelling model for the concept of a future city, where progress is measured by quality of living across generations.

From an investment perspective, the formation of this “southern economic and tourism super-map” signals not only expanded headroom for the tourism sector, but also the influx of capital and the prospect of sustained real estate value appreciation.

For context, Singapore welcomed approximately 16.5 million international visitors in 2025, generating around SGD 29 billion (equivalent to USD 22.6 billion) in tourism revenue. Against this benchmark, Can Gio’s target of 40 million annual visitors serves as a foundation for long-term asset value growth, as the area evolves into a leading coastal economic and tourism urban center in Vietnam and the wider region.

Hashtag: #Vinhomes

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

LiveNews: https://livenews.co.nz/2026/03/19/can-gio-the-emerging-catalyst-in-southern-vietnams-tourism-transformation/