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Employers in the ICT and Creative Media Industries Place Greater Emphasis on Soft Skills; Growing Recognition for Higher Diploma Graduates’ Competencies HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 December 2024 – Led by Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU) and funded by The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, the Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway (CLAP-TECH) has conducted its second annual survey, exploring the talent demands of the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) and Creative Media industries. The survey delved into aspects including starting salaries, hiring process duration, in-demand positions and overall talent supply. It aims to provide insights into employer expectations regarding the skills of fresh graduates with higher diplomas or university degrees, while providing valuable reference for students and industries. Andrew Ho, Director of Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Centre, (left) and Patrick Tam, Principal Advisor at 3 Screens Strategic Advisors Limited (right), an industry partner of Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway, discussed CLAP-TECH’s survey findings and their implications. This year’s survey results indicate a growing recognition among employers in both industries of the capabilities of higher diploma graduates. In the age of artificial intelligence, employers are placing greater emphasis on soft skills and acknowledging the role of Vocational and Professional Education and Training (VPET) in cultivating talent with market-relevant expertise. Starting salaries for higher diploma and university degree fresh graduates remain between HKD 17,000 and HKD 23,000 Employers’ recognition of higher diploma graduates improves compared to last year According to the survey, approximately 60% of employers believed that higher diploma graduates possess soft and hard skills comparable to, or even stronger than, those of university degree graduates. Employers’ recognition of the soft and hard skills of higher diploma graduates has increased by 8.8 and 17.1 percentage points respectively, compared to last year. This growing acknowledgment is evident in graduates’ starting salaries. In the Creative Media industry, most higher diploma graduates (77.2%) and university degree fresh graduates (66.8%) receive a starting salary of HKD 17,000 to HKD 23,000. Notably, the proportion of higher diploma graduates with starting salaries between HKD 20,000 and HKD 23,000 has risen by 9.7 percentage points compared to last year. In the ICT industry, the majority of higher diploma graduates (68%) fit within the HKD 17,000 to HKD 23,000 starting salary range, mirroring last year’s findings (64.7%), while over half (56.4%) of university degree fresh graduates are in the same salary bracket this year. Regarding hiring process duration and salary increments, employers in the ICT and Creative Media sectors reported an average time of nearly three months to fill suitable vacancies, with 8.8% of ICT employers indicating that some positions may take more than six months to fill. Some 70% of responding employers expect salary increments for higher diploma and university degree fresh graduates in 2025 to be between 2% and 5.9%, aligning with market expectations. Andrew Ho, Director of the Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Centre, said: “We are pleased to see a significant annual increase in employers’ recognition of higher diploma graduates’ soft and hard skills. Starting salaries for higher diploma graduates have also increased this year, particularly in the Creative Media sector. This reflects a growing market demand for quality graduate talent and demonstrates that higher diploma graduates with the right skills and qualifications are becoming increasingly competitive in the job market.” Academic achievements are a lesser priority, with soft skills gaining greater competitiveness in the age of AI As artificial intelligence (AI) continues to reshape education and the workplace, the survey revealed that over half (54.6%) of the surveyed employers have fully or partially integrated advanced technologies like AI and generative AI into their daily operations, while over one-third (37.4%) are considering such integration. However, as businesses increasingly adopt these technologies, employers prioritise soft skills such as “curiosity and lifelong learning”, “analytical thinking”, and “resilience, flexibility, and agility”. These skills are deemed more important than the knowledge and skills of AI and big data, which ranks fifth in importance in the next five to ten years. During job interviews, employers have shifted their focus from candidates’ internships or practical experience to demonstrating soft skills such as communication (81.7%), problem-solving abilities (81.5%) and leadership potential (57.1%). Remarkably, the proportion of employers in the ICT and creative media sectors who value leadership potential surged, nearly doubling and increasing by over 1.7 times respectively compared to the previous year. More than 24.2% of employers in the ICT industry and 17.2% in the Creative Media industry believe that current candidates lack these skills, while academic performance and credentials are considered a lesser priority. Employers in the Creative Media industry indicate that in the next five to ten years, talent will need to acquire “creative thinking” and “technological literacy” along with skills related to “artificial intelligence and big data”. Patrick Tam, Principal Advisor at 3 Screens Strategic Advisors Limited, an industry partner of the Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Pathway, stated: “In today’s fast-evolving digital landscape, employers are increasingly in need of team members who possess a balanced blend of soft and hard skills. While proficiency in industry-specific skills is crucial, we also value employees who exhibit a strong sense of curiosity and a commitment to lifelong learning. As artificial intelligence becomes more prevalent in our daily workflow, it is imperative that our workforce applies their analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and judgement to ensure the responsible implementation of AI technologies. The qualities of resilience, flexibility and agility will render employees indispensable in today’s dynamic work environment.” Andrew Ho, Director of the Jockey Club Multiple Pathways Initiative – CLAP-TECH Centre, said: “To ensure that the CLAP-TECH curriculum aligns with industry needs, we engaged with industry partners early on to gain insights into emerging career trends and the essential role of both soft and hard skills. Through a tripartite partnership among HKBU, industry partners and secondary schools, we are dedicated to nurturing talents equipped with the skills necessary for the future workforce. The

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 December 2024 – DBP has once again been recognized as a trailblazer in sustainability with the conferment of two prestigious accolades at the ACES Awards 2024: the Outstanding Leaders in Asia Award and the Green Initiative Award. These honors recognize DBP’s enduring commitment to environmental stewardship, responsible economic growth, and social inclusion—principles that have guided the institution since its founding in 1947. The Development Bank of the Philippines (DBP) shines at the ACES Awards 2024! Receiving the prestigious Green Initiative Award on Day 1, DBP was represented by Michael de Jesus, President and CEO (right center), and Carolyn Olfindo, SVP/Head of the Branch Banking Sector (left center). The award was presented by Dr. Shanggari Balakrishnan, President of the ACES Awards (far left), and Luis Bueno Nieto, Advisor to the ACES Council (far right). Adding to the celebration, Michael de Jesus was honoured on Day 2 with the Outstanding Leaders in Award, in recognition of his exemplary leadership that continues to drive DBP towards sustainable and impactful growth. DBP leading the way in green initiatives and inspiring leadership! Under the leadership of PCEO Michael O. de Jesus, who brings more than 37 years of domestic and international financial experience, DBP solidified its position as a catalyst for sustainable development. With a strong ethical framework, the bank’s commitment to environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and good governance has been instrumental in driving national progress. As a flagship environmental undertaking and corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative, the DBP Forest Program was launched in 2005. Over 6.6 million trees have been planted across 48 project sites spanning 6,000 hectares in collaboration with local communities, universities, and non-governmental organizations—achieving 85% of the 2030 target. This initiative enhances biodiversity, improves local livelihoods, and contributes to the Philippines’ climate action goals through carbon sequestration. As a key player in driving the country’s transition to a low-carbon economy, with target of 35% renewable energy in the power mix by 2030, DBP actively channels resources to climate financing and renewable energy projects. Through its pioneering Solar Merchant Power Plant (SMPP) financing program, the bank supports developers supplying clean electricity to the Wholesale Electricity Spot Market. Likewise, DBP’s Assistance for Economic and Social Development (ASENSO) for Local Government Units (LGUs) financing program ensures funding for essential infrastructure and socio-economic development projects, including clean energy solutions to uplift living standards nationwide. DBP’s holistic approach extends beyond financing to education, exemplified by its Resources for Inclusive and Sustainable Education (RISE) CSR program, which provides scholarships to underprivileged students. This emphasis on human capital development underscores the bank’s conviction that education is integral to lasting social and economic progress. The recent induction of DBP into the Corporate Governance Scorecard Hall of Fame further validates its adherence to high ethical standards, transparency, and good governance. Bolstered by the Senate’s approval of a new charter increasing its authorized capital, DBP stands well-positioned to broaden its development impact, fostering responsible growth, and resilience for future generations. Hashtag: #ACESAwards2024 #SustainabilityAward #LeadershipAward #Sustainability #leadership #regionalrecognition #DBP #Philippines #leadershipexcellence #outstandingleadersinasia #greeninitiativeaward https://www.dbp.ph/ The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About the Development Bank of the Philippines: DBP is a government financial institution dedicated to fostering national progress through strategic financing and technical support for priority sectors, including infrastructure, the environment, social services, and MSMEs. With a solid foundation and a renewed mandate, DBP is poised to continue its mission of fostering sustainable development and empowering communities across the Philippines.

BERLIN/ROERMOND, GERMANY – Newsaktuell – 19 December 2024 – On 1 January, Ingo Kästner, Managing Director of PMG Presse-Monitor, will also take over the management of X-CAGO. The Dutch company is a leading international specialist for data and content conversion in the international publishing industry. The previous Managing Director and founder, Koos Hussem, will be taking his well-deserved retirement at the turn of the year, but will continue to be available to the company with his expertise. Ingo Kästner has headed PMG Presse-Monitor since 2019. He played a leading role in initiating the acquisition of X-CAGO in 2021. Since then, he has been responsible for the Dutch company’s business together with Koos Hussem. Olivera Kipcic, Chairwoman of the PMG shareholders’ meeting and shareholder representative of Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, emphasises: ‘Ingo Kästner is an accomplished manager and expert in digital content marketing. In recent years, he has created new opportunities to successfully market high-quality content digitally. Under his leadership, PMG and X-CAGO have become a strong strategic unit. His takeover of the management is the next logical step in continuing this success story.’ Ingo Kästner bids Koos Hussem farewell with the following words: ‘I would like to thank Koos warmly for the trusting collaboration over the last few years. With his commitment and vision, he has made X-CAGO one of the most sought-after providers of content management and data conversion since it was founded in 2000. It is an honour for me to continue on this successful path. Together with his first-class team, we will continue to expand X-CAGO’s role as a technical pioneer and offer content producers worldwide perfect solutions for successful digital marketing.’ About PMG Presse-Monitor GmbH & Co. KG and X-CAGO B.V. With the largest daily updated press database in the German-speaking world, PMG Presse-Monitor GmbH & Co. KG is a leading provider of digital media monitoring, press review creation and media analysis. PMG markets the content and rights of around 900 newspaper and magazine publishers. Of over 4,000 print and online sources, around 3,000 are available digitally in the PMG press database. The company supplies over 5,000 customers from companies, associations, public institutions, media monitoring services and PR agencies from its base in Berlin. Founded in 2001, PMG is a joint venture of German newspaper and magazine publishers with the shareholders Axel Springer, Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, Gruner + Jahr, Handelsblatt Media Group, Hubert Burda Media, Spiegel-Verlag, Süddeutsche Zeitung as well as the Bundesverband Digitalpublisher und Zeitungsverleger and the Medienverband der freien Presse. In 2021, PMG is taking a major step towards becoming a central data hub for content publishers with the acquisition of Dutch data converter X-CAGO B.V. The company is internationally successful in converting and standardising a wide variety of content formats. ArchiveExpress, X-CAGO’s digital archive solution, is used by publishers worldwide as a distribution platform for their content. Hashtag: #PMG The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

PHUKET, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2024 – Sansiri Public Company Limited, Thailand’s leading property developer with a 40-year track record, is regarded as Thailand’s most trusted fully integrated real estate developer among Thai and international clients. The company has recently garnered a number of prestigious awards, including the top spot among Thai property developers on the inaugural Fortune Southeast Asia 500 list, two Asia-level awards (Best Ultra Luxury Housing / Landed Development (Asia) for BuGaan Pattanakarn and Best Luxury Housing / Landed Development (Asia) for Narasiri Phaholwatcharapol) and an additional 11 honours at the PropertyGuru Thailand Property Awards 2024. These include Best Developer in Thailand and Best Developer in Phuket, underscoring its leading position in the real estate sector both in Thailand and across the region. Mr. Uthai Uthaisangsuk, President of Sansiri Public Company Limited, reaffirmed the launch of The Society, ‘We are proud to have contributed to Phuket’s development for over 13 years, having successfully completed a portfolio of 27 projects on the island, valued at 26 billion baht. These include notable developments such as Baan Mai Khao Phuket, THE BASE Central Phuket, THE DECK Patong, and Saransiri Koh Kaew. Sansiri plans on continuing its success in the region with the launch of more than 27 Phuket projects over the next five years.’ ‘This unwavering trust stems from the company’s high-quality project locations in the island’s choicest areas, alongside comprehensive after-sales services, values that have translated into exceptional returns. We value the potential of Thailand’s recovering tourism sector, especially in Phuket, which is gaining global attention as one of the world’s largest vacation real estate destinations, with an increasing number of foreigners choosing to invest in Thai properties as their second homes. Phuket’s unique indigenous identity, including its cuisine, arts, and culture, serves as powerful magnets for both foreign customers and investors. In addition, Thailand’s visa exemption policy has catalysed unprecedented growth in global tourism, resulting in an “Always High Season” phenomenon for Phuket.’ ‘Sansiri developed The Society in the prime Bang Tao-Cherngtalay area to establish it as a global brand at the heart of the exciting developments taking place, enabling visitors to explore all that Phuket and the distinctive Sansiri lifestyle have to offer through new perspectives.’ Mr. Uthai emphasised, Over four decades, Sansiri has successfully curated exceptional collaborations with the world’s most sought-after international design talents; virtuosos whose masterful touch has graced prestigious private estates and ultra-luxury hotels globally. These visionary collaborations have given rise to extraordinary and bespoke design residences under the Sansiri Luxury Collection portfolio. Each project showcases a rare and highly customised living space, spanning both ultra-luxury flagship and luxury developments across landmark projects in Thailand. These include 98 Wireless, super-luxury flagship condominiums commanding Thailand’s most prestigious resale values, inspired by Ralph Lauren Home with interiors meticulously curated by Anne Carson; KHUN by YOO inspired by Starck, a pioneering Design Branded Residence condominium in the Thong Lo district; and an anthology of extraordinary signature residences presenting the aesthetic vision of world-renowned designers at THE MONUMENT Thong Lo, including Gert Voorjans, the Antwerp-based design virtuoso behind the architectural poetry of Dries Van Noten’s flagship boutiques, and Lorenzo Castillo, the mastermind behind LOEWE’s ethereal retail sanctuaries in Spain, Shanghai, and Hong Kong. Sansiri showcases its design prowess at ‘The Society,’ a new, luxurious yet accessible social hub in Phuket. This first-of-its-kind space by Sansiri is designed to foster community bonding and elevate Phuket as a premiere tourist destination. It offers a continuous lineup of lifestyle activities, featuring contributions from top designers and illustrators to create an immersive experience. Open daily, ‘The Society’ serves as a cultural focal point where both Thai and international visitors can engage with local lifestyle through unique, tailored experiences in food, fashion, arts, and sustainability. Key attractions include the Day-to-Night Eatery with an authentic Spanish menu at VAMOS Spanish Tapas Bar, and specialty coffees from BEANS Coffee Roaster. The venue also provides a co-sharing workspace ideal for private meetings and podcasting, an art exhibition space, and a vibrant calendar of lifestyle events. Additionally, it houses a sales gallery showcasing Sansiri’s developments like CANVAS Cherngtalay, the first condominium in the Cherngtalay zone, and THE TALES, Sansiri’s first Pool Villa Collection in Phuket with ‘THE TALES STORY ONE – BANGJO’. The world-class architectural design by Ed Tuttle’s team complements the venue’s welcoming atmosphere, similar to visiting a friend’s home. Iconic furniture pieces like the Cocoon by Louis Vuitton from the exclusive Objets Nomades collection and Amanta armchairs by Mario Bellini for C&B Italia from the 1960s enhance the sophisticated setting, making ‘The Society’ a must-visit for those seeking to connect and be inspired. Follow us on IG and Facebook: @thesocietyth, or visit the website www.sansiri.com/thesociety Hashtag: #sansiri www.sansiri.com/en The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Sansiri Public Company Limited Sansiri, Thailand’s most trusted full-service real estate developers with over 40 years track record is expanding vigorously both in Thailand and international markets emphasizing on design and livability. With a workforce of over 4,000 employees, Sansiri has built more than 400 projects with over 5 million sq.m. throughout Thailand, one residential building in London and one luxury hotel, The Manner, in Soho – New York City. The company also has an affiliated company for property management and sales management services, PLUS Property.

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2024 – Commerce Dot Com (CDC) concludes its milestone 25th anniversary year on a high note by receiving the esteemed Digitech BestBrands Award 2024 – Visionary Tech. The recognition as a Visionary Tech leader underscores CDC’s pivotal role in shaping the landscape of procurement through cutting-edge technology and transformative solutions. Datuk Muzafar receiving the Brandlaureate Digitech BestBrands Award 2024 – Visionary Tech. CDC’s Chief Executive Officer, Datuk Muzafar Kamal Shahaluddin, expressed his gratitude for this accolade, “This award is a fitting conclusion to an extraordinary year for CDC. Celebrating our 25th anniversary with such recognition is a testament to the visionary leadership and relentless efforts of our team. Over the years, we have embraced innovation to address the evolving needs of procurement, and this award reinforces our commitment to staying ahead in the digital transformation journey.” Over the past 25 years, CDC has introduced innovative systems and set new standards, driving efficiency and transparency in procurement processes. This year alone, CDC launched several initiatives, including Strong Ethics Nurture Integrity, a campaign that underscores CDC’s unwavering commitment to ethical practices and integrity in all its operations. As CDC commemorates its 25th anniversary, the Digitech BestBrands Award 2024 serves as a fitting tribute to its enduring legacy. This achievement is a celebration of past successes and a beacon for future aspirations. Datuk Muzafar Kamal Shahaluddin further noted that, “This recognition is a culmination of our 25-year journey. It celebrates not only the milestones we’ve achieved but also the team’s shared vision and dedication to innovation and excellence. It’s a proud moment for all of us at CDC.” Throughout the year, CDC has engaged in numerous activities that exemplify its commitment to innovation and excellence. These include participation in industry forums to share insights and collaborative projects with partners to advance digital transformation goals. This award highlights CDC’s mission to continually set new standards in procurement while aligning with its core values of innovation, integrity, and progress. It reflects CDC’s unwavering commitment to delivering solutions that contribute to sustainable and inclusive growth. As the procurement sector evolves, CDC remains dedicated to embracing emerging technologies and addressing the challenges of a dynamic marketplace. Hashtag: #commercedotcom #eprocurement #procurement #branding #brandlaureate https://www.commercedc.com.myhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/commercedotcomhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558998332392https://www.instagram.com/commercedotcomm/ The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Commerce Dot Com Sdn Bhd Established in 1999 as a procurement solutions provider, Commerce Dot Com Sdn. Bhd. (CDC) is a government-linked company under the Ministry of Finance whereby the ministry’s corporate arm, Ministry of Finance (Incorporated), holds a golden share in the company. With over 20 years of experience under its belt, CDC has established itself as among the leading procurement solutions providers in Malaysia and has a well-earned reputation for providing exceptional services through its innovative solutions.

PHU QUOC, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2024 – Phu Quoc is rapidly solidifying its position as a new luxury resort paradise in the world, with the arrival of renowned hospitality brands, including Rixos, Ritz-Carlton Reserve and The Luxury Collection in the near future. This December represents a pivotal moment for Phu Quoc and Vietnam, with two events being hailed as ‘historic milestones’ for the country’s high-end resort tourism sector. Sun Group broke ground on the Aspira Tower project in Hon Thom island. On December 5, Sun Group signed an agreement with Accor & Ennismore to bring the world-renowned Rixos brand to Hon Thom, Phu Quoc. Once launched, Rixos Phu Quoc will become the first all-inclusive luxury resort in Southeast Asia. It allows guests to enjoy a wide range of personalised services, amenities, entertainment and relaxation at the highest level. With a one-time package price, guests can fully explore the Sun Paradise Land ecosystem in Phu Quoc, including visiting Sunset Town, riding the world’s longest three-rope cable car and admiring world-class art performances. On December 10, Sun Group officially broke ground on the Aspira Tower project, which has a total investment of US$512 million (VND13 trillion). The tower’s base, featuring undulating architectural layers, will include multi-functional spaces, including a gaming centre with a separate entrance, outdoor dining areas, infinity pools and Jacuzzis. Slated to debut in 2027, the tower will host a hotel under The Luxury Collection brand by Marriott International and the Sun Iconic Hub complex with top-tier amenities. Praised by experts as an ‘unprecedented design,’ the structure is expected to become the ‘second sail-shaped tower of the world,’ attracting millions of visitors to Vietnam annually, much like the iconic Burj Al Arab in Dubai, UAE. Beyond Rixos Phu Quoc and The Luxury Collection, the global elite also focus on the Ritz-Carlton Reserve resort, designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley on Hon Thom island. At the end of 2023, Sun Group signed with Marriott International for operation and management cooperation on this project. World-class art performances and fireworks 365 day a year in the Sun Paradise Land in Phu Quoc. The potential of a ‘prominent hub in Asia’ Before the arrival of new luxury brands, Phu Quoc had already made its mark on the international tourism map with its iconic collection of resorts frequently honoured worldwide. These include the masterpiece JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, themed around an unprecedented university concept, and La Festa Phu Quoc, the first hotel in Hilton’s Curio Collection in Southeast Asia, featuring balconies offering direct views of year-round firework displays. Notably, the Sun Paradise Land ecosystem in Phu Quoc has continuously been enriched with new experiences over the past two years, becoming the ‘trump card’ that has drawn the attention of global hospitality giants. This year, Phu Quoc welcomed about 6 million visitors, including nearly 1 million international arrivals, surpassing 92 per cent of the annual plan and achieving a 70 per cent year-on-year increase. The influx of top-tier hospitality brands is expected to boost direct flight routes to Phu Quoc. Rixos, a brand originating in Turkey and thriving in the Middle East, is expected to help Pearl Island welcome new routes from the UAE, Qatar or Oman – one of the busiest transit hubs. Meanwhile, brands like The Luxury Collection and Ritz Carlton Reserve will attract ‘super luxury’ individuals, business moguls and billionaires. Mehmet Kin, Vice President of Crystal Bay Group, said: “Thailand with Phuket and Pattaya used to be very famous destinations, but in my opinion, Phu Quoc is much better because the infrastructure is ready, the facilities are new, the services are superior and especially, the people always smile. That is very important.” According to many leading global travel businesses, with the potential Phu Quoc currently holds, this island should be compared to world-class tourism icons like Hawaii or the Maldives. “When infrastructure, including roads and tourist attractions, are fully developed, we will witness the emergence of the ‘Hawaii of the East,’” added Hong Jung Min, CEO of Hanatour Vietnam. Hashtag: #SunGroup https://sungroup.com.vn/en The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

PHU QUOC, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 19 December 2024 – Phu Quoc is rapidly solidifying its position as a new luxury resort paradise in the world, with the arrival of renowned hospitality brands, including Rixos, Ritz-Carlton Reserve and The Luxury Collection in the near future. This December represents a pivotal moment for Phu Quoc and Vietnam, with two events being hailed as ‘historic milestones’ for the country’s high-end resort tourism sector. Sun Group broke ground on the Aspira Tower project in Hon Thom island. On December 5, Sun Group signed an agreement with Accor & Ennismore to bring the world-renowned Rixos brand to Hon Thom, Phu Quoc. Once launched, Rixos Phu Quoc will become the first all-inclusive luxury resort in Southeast Asia. It allows guests to enjoy a wide range of personalised services, amenities, entertainment and relaxation at the highest level. With a one-time package price, guests can fully explore the Sun Paradise Land ecosystem in Phu Quoc, including visiting Sunset Town, riding the world’s longest three-rope cable car and admiring world-class art performances. On December 10, Sun Group officially broke ground on the Aspira Tower project, which has a total investment of US$512 million (VND13 trillion). The tower’s base, featuring undulating architectural layers, will include multi-functional spaces, including a gaming centre with a separate entrance, outdoor dining areas, infinity pools and Jacuzzis. Slated to debut in 2027, the tower will host a hotel under The Luxury Collection brand by Marriott International and the Sun Iconic Hub complex with top-tier amenities. Praised by experts as an ‘unprecedented design,’ the structure is expected to become the ‘second sail-shaped tower of the world,’ attracting millions of visitors to Vietnam annually, much like the iconic Burj Al Arab in Dubai, UAE. Beyond Rixos Phu Quoc and The Luxury Collection, the global elite also focus on the Ritz-Carlton Reserve resort, designed by renowned architect Bill Bensley on Hon Thom island. At the end of 2023, Sun Group signed with Marriott International for operation and management cooperation on this project. World-class art performances and fireworks 365 day a year in the Sun Paradise Land in Phu Quoc. The potential of a ‘prominent hub in Asia’ Before the arrival of new luxury brands, Phu Quoc had already made its mark on the international tourism map with its iconic collection of resorts frequently honoured worldwide. These include the masterpiece JW Marriott Phu Quoc Emerald Bay, themed around an unprecedented university concept, and La Festa Phu Quoc, the first hotel in Hilton’s Curio Collection in Southeast Asia, featuring balconies offering direct views of year-round firework displays. Notably, the Sun Paradise Land ecosystem in Phu Quoc has continuously been enriched with new experiences over the past two years, becoming the ‘trump card’ that has drawn the attention of global hospitality giants. This year, Phu Quoc welcomed about 6 million visitors, including nearly 1 million international arrivals, surpassing 92 per cent of the annual plan and achieving a 70 per cent year-on-year increase. The influx of top-tier hospitality brands is expected to boost direct flight routes to Phu Quoc. Rixos, a brand originating in Turkey and thriving in the Middle East, is expected to help Pearl Island welcome new routes from the UAE, Qatar or Oman – one of the busiest transit hubs. Meanwhile, brands like The Luxury Collection and Ritz Carlton Reserve will attract ‘super luxury’ individuals, business moguls and billionaires. Mehmet Kin, Vice President of Crystal Bay Group, said: “Thailand with Phuket and Pattaya used to be very famous destinations, but in my opinion, Phu Quoc is much better because the infrastructure is ready, the facilities are new, the services are superior and especially, the people always smile. That is very important.” According to many leading global travel businesses, with the potential Phu Quoc currently holds, this island should be compared to world-class tourism icons like Hawaii or the Maldives. “When infrastructure, including roads and tourist attractions, are fully developed, we will witness the emergence of the ‘Hawaii of the East,’” added Hong Jung Min, CEO of Hanatour Vietnam. Hashtag: #SunGroup https://sungroup.com.vn/en The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.