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Johnson & Johnson launches The 3rd Opinion in Asia Pacific: a new term to elevate the patient voice in the lung cancer treatment journey

Newly published research shows up to 77% of patients in Asia Pacific trust and rely on their physicians to decide their treatment for them despite 69% of physicians encouraging patients to engage in shared decision making1. A new term, coined The 3rd Opinion, is designed to spark a social movement that empowers patients to recognize their vital role in shared decision-making, in a region that is disproportionately impacted by lung cancer2. SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 August 2025 – Today, on World Lung Cancer Day, Johnson & Johnson announced the launch of The 3rd Opinion, the patient’s own opinion, a new term that seeks to elevate the patient voice and transform the treatment journey of lung cancer across Asia Pacific by enhancing shared decision making. With significant scientific advancements and more lung cancer treatments becoming available, it is essential for patients to understand their options and actively engage in their care. Johnson & Johnson seeks to empower patients, amplify their voices and ensure that collaborative care becomes a reality for every patient. According to newly published data on NSCLC patient preferences in Future Oncology, up to 77% of patients in Asia Pacific trust and rely on their physicians to decide their treatment for them despite 69% of physicians encouraging patients to engage in shared decision making[1]. Cultural norms around stigma, not questioning authority, and limited understanding of the disease can often be major barriers causing patients not to voice concerns or ask questions, even when healthcare professionals actively encourage their input. “Being diagnosed with lung cancer is overwhelming. It’s natural for patients to seek clarity, often by pursuing a second opinion, to better understand their condition and treatment options. However, patients often hesitate to express their concerns and treatment goals, causing them to be overlooked in the decision-making process. By creating space for the patient’s own opinion, The 3rd Opinion, creates a new way of thinking about lung cancer treatment and empowers patients to find their voice,” said Anthony Elgamal, Vice President of Oncology, Johnson & Johnson Innovative Medicine Asia Pacific. Lung cancer has the highest incidence and mortality rate of all cancers worldwide, with more than 2.5 million people diagnosed every year, and Asia makes up 63% of all patients[2]. Up to 85% of lung cancers are non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and Asians are more prone to certain genetic mutations than the rest of the world. One of the most prevalent is a mutation known as EGFR where 30-40% of all NSCLC diagnoses are in Asia, compared to 10-15% in the United States and Europe[3][4][5]. Often being diagnosed at a late stage, less than 20% of people with these genetic mutations survive beyond five years[6], and up to 40% never get the chance to receive a subsequent therapy after first-line treatment.[7][8][9] “With the disproportionately high prevalence of certain NSCLC mutations in Asia Pacific, we need to think differently about how we treat patients and what more we can achieve with the first treatment. Treatment options have become increasingly complex and clinical decision making should comprehensively consider disease characteristics, patient treatment goals and values, and aim for an individualized balance between survival, longer lasting disease control and side effects. When shared decision making includes all available options, the final decision can be made collaboratively,” said Prof James Chih-Hsin Yang, Director of National Taiwan University Cancer Center and key advocate for The 3rd Opinion initiative. Mark Brooke, Chief Executive Officer of Lung Foundation Australia, co-author of the Future Oncology publication and an advocate of The 3rd Opinion agreed, “The physician and patient dynamic is one of trust, but we cannot rely on that alone. The consequence is a potential disconnect between the patient and their healthcare professional around treatment preferences and personal goals. For patients, they often want more time above all else – to witness life’s milestones, more moments with loved ones, and more opportunities to simply live. Patients need to be equipped with adequate disease and treatment information, so they can communicate what matters most to them”. The 3rd Opinion will be launched across multiple markets with educational resources, including a Lung Cancer Book of Answers in China, a patient empowerment video and various shared decision making tools across Asia Pacific to spark a social movement that encourages patients to confidently articulate their personal goals for treatment. The creation of a neologism, like The 3rd Opinion, ensures shared decision making becomes accepted into clinical practice and in turn fosters an environment where the doctor’s expertise and the patient goals come together to design the best treatment plan. [1] Chee Khoon Lee et al. Navigating advanced lung cancer care, patient–physician alliance, cancer stigma, and psychosocial support in Asia-Pacific: perspectives from patients, caregivers, and physicians. DOI: 10.1080/14796694.2025.2499511 [2] Natia Jokhadze MD, Arunangshu Das MBBS, Don S. Dizon MD. Global cancer statistics 2022: GLOBOCAN estimates of incidence and mortality worldwide for 36 cancers in 185 countries. Volume 74Issue 3CA: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians pages: 224-226 First Published online: April 4, 2024 [3] Keedy VL, et al. American Society of Clinical Oncology Provisional Clinical Opinion: Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Mutation Testing for Patients with Advanced Non-Small-Cell Lung Cancer Considering First-Line EGFR Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor Therapy. Journal of Clinical Oncology. 2011; 29(15): 2121-2127. [4] Ellison G, et al. EGFR Mutation Testing in Lung Cancer: a Review of Available Methods and Their Use for Analysis of Tumour Tissue and Cytology Samples. Journal of Clinical Oncology. 2013; 66(2): 79-89. [5] Korpanty G, et al. Biomarkers That Currently Affect Clinical Practice in Lung Cancer: EGFR, ALK, MET, ROS-1, and KRAS. Frontiers in Oncology. 2014; 4: 204. [6] Bazhenova L, Minchom A, Viteri S, et al. Comparative clinical outcomes for patients with advanced NSCLC harboring EGFR exon 20 insertion mutations and common EGFR mutations. Lung Cancer. 2021;162:154-161.​ [7] Nieva J, Karia PS, Okhuoya P, et al. A real-world (rw) observational study of long-term survival (LTS) and treatment patterns after first-line (1L) osimertinib in patients (pts) with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutation-positive

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Takashi Murakami’s Ohana Hatake Unleashes a Floral Fantasy: “Field of Flowers” Lands at Pacific Place

Ohana Hatake Pop-Up Blooms in Hong Kong Featuring the Global Debut of Four Vibrant New Colourways of Ohana Full-Bloom and Surippa Ohana HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 August 2025 – This summer, Pacific Place blossoms into an imaginative, fashion-forward floral dreamscape with the debut of “Field of Flowers” — the first-ever Takashi Murakami’s Ohana Hatake pop-up in Hong Kong. This exclusive pop-up runs from 31 July to 13 August at Pacific Place, promising an immersive retail and visual experience for the style-savvy, the art-obsessed, and everyone in between. As ComplexCon Hong Kong 2025’s Official Mall Partner, Pacific Place merges retail, pop culture, and art, creating a bold space where creativity and fashion collide, all through its own unique lens. Pacific Place Field of Flowers The first-ever Takashi Murakami’s Ohana Hatake pop-up in Hong Kong First in Hong Kong: Ohana Hatake Blooms at Pacific Place Marking its official Hong Kong debut with the “Field of Flowers”, Takashi Murakami’s Ohana Hatake pop-up offers an extraordinary opportunity to step inside Murakami’s fantastical floral universe. Known for his bold superflat aesthetic, Murakami infuses this retail space with his distinctive DNA, making it a must-see for cultural tastemakers and collectors alike. Taking centre stage is a spectacular large-scale hanging cherry blossom installation — a sculptural masterpiece making its public debut. Indulge in a floral fantasy, the installation transforms Garden Court into a surreal dreamscape, where fashion flows into fine art. This immersive pop-up marks a cultural milestone for the city, blossoming into a vibrant garden shaped by Murakami’s signature visual language — playful, poetic, and bursting with imagination. Don’t forget to take a picture in front of the mirror wall for a cool aesthetic that’s filled with flowers! Venue: “Field of Flowers” – Takashi Murakami’s Ohana Hatake Pop-Up (Garden Court, Level LG1) Opening Hours: 11 am – 8 pm Pacific Place x Ohana Hatake x Complex Chinese: Where Art Meets Fashion & Fun As the Official Mall Partner of ComplexCon Hong Kong 2025, Pacific Place cements its role as a hub for boundary-pushing culture. This three-way collaboration unites retail innovation, pop culture, and contemporary art — creating a space where creative minds and fashion lovers collide, and blending the energy of ComplexCon with the unique spirit of Pacific Place. Global Debut of Four Vibrant New Colourways of Ohana Full-Bloom and Surippa Ohana Fashion-Forward Drops: Global Debut of Four Vibrant New Colourways of Ohana Full-Bloom and Surippa Ohana Ohana Hatake is unveiling exclusive product drops at Pacific Place, featuring two signature styles in four new shades — part of twelve colourways rolling out across two weeks. Headlining the lineup is the Ohana Full Bloom collection — a series of eight colourways in bold, floral-inspired slides featuring Murakami’s iconic motifs. Each pair is crafted for both comfort and statement-making, showcasing sculptural flower embellishments, vivid palettes, and distinctive design language true to Murakami’s superflat universe. Leading this seasonal bloom are two debut colourways — Buttercup and Lime Zest — offering a fresh take on wearable art with their bright and joyful energy for the summer. Rounding out the collection is the Surippa Ohana style, available in four expressive colourways. The Sakura and Cherry Blossom editions both nod to Murakami’s recurring floral motifs, including the pop-up’s iconic installation centrepiece. Joining them are two bold new hues, Deep Forest and Sweet Grape — rich, nature-inspired tones that add fresh dimension to this sculptural silhouette. This high-street-meets-art launch is set to resonate with today’s style-conscious tastemakers, offering wearable art infused with the joyful irreverence of Murakami’s visual world. Shop, Sip and Be Rewarded From 31 July to 13 August, stylish perks await at Pacific Place and Starstreet Precinct. Same-day electronic spending of HK$800 unlocks a specially brewed Ohana Hatake coffee, while HK$1,500 or more qualifies for a limited-edition tote bag — a perfect companion for the season. Date: 31 July to 13 August 2025 Time: 11 am – 7 pm Location: Ohana Hatake Coffee Counter (Level L1, near Theory) What’s more, from 31 July to 24 August, discover an exclusive shopping rewards programme designed to elevate the summer experience. Eligible Standard Chartered Cathay Mastercard® holders can enjoy bonus vouchers to make their shopping experience even more rewarding! Accumulated Same-day Electronic Spending General Rewards Standard Chartered Cathay Mastercard Cardholder Extra Rewards HK$5,000 – HK$29,999 HK$200 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher HK$100 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher HK$30,000 – HK$79,999 HK$800 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher HK$250 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher HK$80,000 – HK$119,999 HK$1,800 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher HK$800 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher HK$120,000 or above HK$2,600 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher HK$2,200 Pacific Place Shopping e-Voucher Date: 31 July to 24 August 2025 Time: 11 am – 10 pm Location: Redemption Counter (Level L2, near JOYCE) Whether you’re a fashion aficionado, an art enthusiast, or simply looking for a joyful summer experience, the “Field of Flowers” – Takashi Murakami’s Ohana Hatake Pop-Up at Pacific Place is a must-visit destination this season. Come and see it for yourself! Hashtag: #TakashiMurakamiOhanaHatakePopUp #FieldofFlowers #SummerInFullBloom #PacificPlaceHK #ComplexChinese The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

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Shop Smarter in Macau: ShopBack Debuts with Exclusive Cashback Rewards Across Leading Merchants

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 August 2025 – ShopBack, Asia’s foremost cashback platform, proudly announces its official entry into the Macau market, introducing a sophisticated yet intuitive solution for savvy shoppers to unlock greater value with every transaction. This strategic expansion signifies ShopBack’s commitment to bringing its signature savings-driven shopping experience to a new community of users. ShopBack officially launches in Macau. New users can now register to instantly explore leading merchant brands, shop with ease, and enjoy cashback rewards. With the official launch now underway, residents of Macau are invited to register via the ShopBack website or mobile app and immediately begin enjoying seamless cashback benefits across a diverse range of renowned merchants. From travel bookings to fashion essentials, personal care, and lifestyle products, ShopBack empowers users to earn cashback on purchases that already form part of their everyday lives. At the heart of this initiative lies ShopBack’s enduring philosophy: “If it’s not a steal, it’s not a ShopBack Deal“—a reflection of its mission to champion smart consumption and redefine online shopping through the lens of genuine value. ShopBack welcomes all Macau residents starting August 2025 to participate without minimum spend requirements or hidden conditions. Users can explore well-known travel platforms including Agoda, Booking.com, Expedia, KKday, Hotels.com, HopeGoo, and Wing On Travel, as well as retail and lifestyle favorites such as Nike, Watsons, iHerb, Farfetch, Selfridges, Net-A-Porter, Sasa, and Sephora, with cashback seamlessly credited upon merchant confirmation. Withdrawals are effortlessly processed via FPS, ensuring a smooth and immediate reward experience. ShopBack’s Macau debut also introduces an innovative twist to its value proposition through ShopBack Play—a gamified feature within the ShopBack app where users can download curated mobile games and earn cashback simply by engaging with them. This “Play to Earn” model adds a layer of entertainment to the shopping journey and further strengthens the brand’s resonance with a digitally engaged audience. This milestone sets a new standard for consumer engagement in the region and reinforces ShopBack’s reputation as the go-to platform for shrewd, rewarding, and hassle-free online shopping. Mr. Arthur Wan, General Manager of Hong Kong & Taiwan at ShopBack, stated: “ShopBack’s arrival in Macau marks a strategic advancement in our mission to reshape how consumers engage with e-commerce platforms across Asia. We’re proud to empower Macau residents with a seamless and rewarding experience, where every purchase unlocks real and measurable value. This launch underscores our commitment to marketing innovation, business growth, and customer-centric technology, delivering not just rebates, but a smarter way to shop.” Hashtag: #ShopBack The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About ShopBack ShopBack is Asia’s leading cashback platform, offering users an easy and seamless way to earn cashback on purchases. Simply shopping through ShopBack’s app allows users to receive cashback directly into their ShopBack account upon completing their orders and merchant confirmation. Cashback withdrawals are seamlessly processed via FPS or transferred to cash dollars, ensuring instant accessibility for travel bookings, dining experiences, and shopping purchases, allowing users to enjoy their rewards effortlessly and smoothly. To start earning rewards and explore everything ShopBack Macau has to offer, visit: Website: https://www.shopback.com.hk/ App: https://app.shopback.com/

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Everlasting City: Kaifeng’s Cultural Renaissance Thrilled SCO Partners

KAIFENG, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 31 July 2025 – Recently, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Media and Think Tank Summit was held in China’s Henan Province, with guests visiting the ancient capital of Kaifeng. They came from over 20 countries and regions, including Russia, Kazakhstan, Pakistan, Egypt, and Nepal. Immersed in the cultural legacy and vibrant development of this city that served as the capital of eight dynasties, they savored the beautiful moments of cultural integration and heartfelt understanding. The summit, themed “Upholding the ‘Shanghai Spirit’ to Build a More Beautiful Home”, designated Kaifeng as a key destination for foreign guests from its inception. Located in China’s heartland along the Yellow River, Kaifeng boasts a history of over 4,100 years as a settled urban center and served as the capital of eight dynasties. Most notably, during the Northern Song Dynasty (960–1127), it thrived for 168 years as both a political hub and one of the world’s most bustling metropolises. Millennium City Park (Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden) The renowned British historian Arnold Joseph Toynbee once said, “Given the choice, I would choose to live in China’s Song Dynasty.” In his eyes, the Song Dynasty, with its economic prosperity, cultural brilliance, and social openness, was “the finest age for human life”. A glimpse of Kaifeng past lingers in Along the River During Qingming Festival, the timeless masterpiece by Northern Song painter Zhang Zeduan: along the Bian River, shops pressed close in a lively cluster, boats and carriages thronged the waters and roads, and crowds bustled with life. Thanks to an open society and abundant resources, ordinary life in the Northern Song Dynasty began to bloom with extraordinary richness and vitality. History was no longer solely the grand tale of emperors and nobles; in the bustle of markets and the warmth of daily toil, it etched its most touching stories. Though dynasties fade, the pulse of daily life endures. Modern Kaifeng integrates Song Dynasty aesthetics into ordinary existence, embedding ancient elegance within morning bells, evening drums, and the rhythm of daily necessities. Strolling through Kaifeng’s streets resembles stepping into a classical Chinese scroll. Waterways crisscross the city, linking ancient buildings with gray tiles and red walls. On imposing city gates, vivid yet time-honored woodblock New Year paintings burst with life. The fragrance of tea drifts through the lanes, and the melodies of Yuju opera curl endlessly along the Bian River. In classrooms, children recite Song poems with ease. Around every corner, unexpected treasures await: Kaifeng Prefecture, Daxiangguo Temple, Longting, Daliang Gate, and the Ruins of Zhouqiao Bridge. Every inch of the city whispers: History has never left but lives in Kaifeng people’s daily routines and flows through the city’s very essence. The Millennium City Park (Qingming Riverside Landscape Garden) was a highlight of the guests’ visit. This Song culture-themed park recreates scenes from Along the River During Qingming Festival. Over 200 Song-style structures, including government offices, taverns, and tea houses, stand in orderly rows. More than 800 performers in Song-era costumes wander through, staging over 100 distinctive shows. Here, over 20 intangible cultural heritages are on display, featuring Bian embroidery, the “Four Arts of Song Dynasty”, woodblock New Year paintings, and Northern Song official porcelain. This 600-mu (98.8-acre) “living museum” does more than replicate the painting’s scenes. Through its innovative integration of scene restoration, cultural performances, and tech-driven interaction, visitors gain a firsthand sense of the “bustle of crowds and buzz of markets” that characterized life in the Northern Song Dynasty. “This is my first visit to Kaifeng. Its beauty transports me through time to the Northern Song Dynasty’s glorious heyday,” remarked Nikita Kornev, Executive Director of the Center for China and Asia-Pacific Studies, Ural Federal University, Russia. If an unbroken cultural legacy and the enduring pulse of daily life define the soul of a cherished home, then humanity’s indomitable spirit forms the very core that builds it. For millennia, the Yellow River’s roaring floods, thick with silt, have repeatedly devastated Kaifeng. Yet, with unwavering resilience, the people here have rebuilt their homes time and again. Today, this timeless resilience finds perfect expression in the paulownia trees that tower toward the sky. On the same day, other guests visited Lankao County. They were deeply moved by the story of Jiao Yulu, who, over 60 years ago, led Lankao’s people in fighting sandstorms and planting paulownias to restore the ecosystem. Ahmed Hassan Ahmed Mohamed Moustafa, Owner and Director of the Asia Center for Studies and Translation, noted that he was profoundly impressed by China’s achievements in poverty alleviation. He further observed that Lankao’s remarkable development, driven by afforestation and other efforts, offers valuable insights that could be adopted in his own nation. Today, the paulownias planted to tame desertification have grown into towering giants. Locals discovered that paulownia wood makes an exceptional material for traditional musical instruments, as it resists warping and offers excellent breathability and acoustic properties. Today, the traditional instrument industry has become one of Lankao’s pillar economic sectors. Guzheng zithers, pipa lutes, and other instruments crafted from local paulownia not only sell well across China but also reach markets in numerous countries and regions. In Kaifeng, a city where ancient charm weaves with modern vitality and economy thrives alongside culture, this confidence finds expression in melodies unbroken through generations, diverse elements advancing in harmony, exchanges that deepen mutual understanding, and differences cherished amid shared brilliance. Hashtag: #Kaifeng The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

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The 10th Kubuqi International Desert Forum to Open: Ordos Becomes a Beacon of Green Hope for the World

ORDOS, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 31 July 2025 – From September 8 to 9, 2025, the 10th Kubuqi International Desert Forum will convene in Ordos, Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. As a vital international exchange platform for desertification prevention and control, this forum, with the theme “Scientific Desertification Control, Green Development”, will host delegates from international organizations such as the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the UNCCD Secretariat, as well as government officials, experts, and scholars from Africa, Europe, the Middle East, and other regions, to jointly explore innovative approaches to desertification prevention and control. Beyond showcasing Ordos’ success in desertification control, this gathering will share Chinese wisdom and solutions in the fields of ecological restoration and sustainable development with the global community. An oasis in Kubuqi Desert, Hangjin Banner, Ordos From “Sea of Death“ to “Economic Oasis“: Kubuqi‘s Remarkable Ecological Turnaround As China’s seventh-largest desert, Kubuqi was once branded as the “Sea of Death”. However, after decades of scientific desertification control, this area has undergone a fundamental ecological transformation. According to statistics, Kubuqi’s desertification control rate surged from 7% to 40% in 2024, with ambitious targets of 50% by 2025 and 70% by 2030. Central to this success is a 420-kilometer northern shelterbelt integrated with a “four-pillar desertification prevention” system, combining photovoltaic arrays, silt dams and other measures. These interventions have reduced soil erosion by 5.7 million mu (380,000 hectares) since 1995, raised soil-water conservation efficiency to 61.4%, and prevented 300 million tons of sediment from entering the Yellow River over the past decade. This transformation is driven by the pioneering “PV + Desertification Control” model. Within the Kubuqi Desert, 10.02 gigawatts of solar capacity now doubles as an ecological restoration engine across approximately 46,700 hectares of rehabilitated desert land. The integrated system delivers three-dimensional benefits, namely clean energy generation atop panels, sustainable agriculture beneath them, and livestock grazing between arrays. This approach has simultaneously increased green energy production and ecological recovery while lifting average incomes by over 30,000 RMB through “work-relief programs”. Landmark projects like Dalad Banner’s “Steed Solar Park”, where 196,000 photovoltaic panels form a galloping horse design, have become a Chinese landmark in the global fight against desertification. How Ordos Tamed the Desert: Systematic Approach and Tech-Powered Solutions Ordos’s success in desertification control stems from its holistic “ecosystem integration” philosophy applied through “four strategic measures” in the campaign to address the ecological challenges at the Yellow River’s “Great Bend”: Financial Integration: Strategic allocation of 14.9 billion RMB to priority projects including desert-marginal forests and PV-controlled rehabilitation zones. Technological Integration: Accelerated iteration and upgrading of desertification control models and technologies, achieving a 60% field application rate of forestry and grassland technologies. Benefit Integration: Balancing desert control with increasing the income of farmers and herdsmen by allocating 16% of key project funds to “work-relief programs” and issuing Inner Mongolia’s first forest carbon credit certificate. Collaborative Integration: Unprecedented mobilization of resources including over 30 state-owned enterprises such as China Three Gorges Corporation, CHN Energy, and Inner Mongolia Energy Investment Group, over 100 private enterprises and non-profit organizations such as Yitai Group, Mengtai Group, and Ant Foundation, over 500 engineering teams and cooperatives, and 25,000 farmers and herdsmen. Shuofang New Energy Mega-Base in Kubuqi Desert, Hangjin Banner, Ordos Furthermore, the Kubuqi model now crosses borders through technical exchanges with Mongolia, Saudi Arabia, and other nations. The Kubuqi model, as remarked on by the UNEP, is a replicable template for global desertification control. Green Transformation and Livelihood Improvement: A Win-Win Path of Desertification Control and Development Ordos’s desertification control efforts have not only reshaped its ecology but also invigorated its economy. Annually, Ordos establishes over approximately 66,667 hectares of new plantations of caragana shrubs, drought-resistant species crucial for stabilizing sandy soils. This brings the total conserved caragana grassland to over approximately 933,333 hectares. Local processing facilities convert caragana shrubs into 35,000 tons of livestock feed and 10,000 tons of biofuel annually, creating economic value from ecological restoration. In former coal-mining subsidence zones, “New Energy and Ecological Regeneration” integrated demonstration bases now operate where solar arrays power adjacent sustainable farms. In 2024, the city achieved a total output value of 7.5 billion RMB from forestry and grassland, and established 190,000 hectares of carbon-sequestering forests, equivalent to 2.6 times the land area of Singapore, standing as tangible proof that clear waters and green mountains are invaluable assets. Where deserts once advanced, greenery now prevails. Where land lay wounded, sustainable economies now thrive. Ordos proves by action that desertification prevention and control and high-quality development can resonate in harmony. The 10th Kubuqi International Desert Forum convenes amid escalating global desertification challenges. According to the UNCCD Secretariat’s latest data, 40% of the land around the world is now degraded, impacting nearly half of humanity. The practice of Ordos delivers a compelling case for achieving the UNCCD’s goals. From Kubuqi to Riyadh, from the Yellow River to the Sahara Desert, China’s scientific solutions are promoting global ecological recovery. The 10th Kubuqi International Desert Forum will open a new chapter in global desertification prevention and control. The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

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HEIDELBERG gets off to positive start in new financial year – forecast for 2025/26 confirmed

Sales and adjusted EBITDA margin for Q1 well up on corresponding quarter of previous year Solid incoming orders lay foundations for positive business development Free cash flow still negative but much improved compared with equivalent period of previous year MoU agreed on system partnership with defense specialist VINCORION Full-year forecast confirmed HEIDELBERG, GERMANY – Newsaktuell – 31 July 2025 – Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (HEIDELBERG) has made a positive start to financial year 2025/26. Thanks to the healthy order backlog from the previous year, sales in the first quarter were well up on the previous year’s figure (€ 403 million) at € 466 million. Business in Europe and Asia developed particularly positively during this period. In the case of Asia, this demonstrates that HEIDELBERG is further strengthening its position in such future markets. The adjusted operating result (EBITDA) also improved significantly, to € 20 million (corresponding quarter of previous year: € –9 million). The adjusted EBITDA margin, which did not include any special items during the reporting period, rose accordingly to 4.4 percent after three months (equivalent quarter of previous year: –2.3 percent). Besides the growing sales volume and improved production capacity utilization, the cost-cutting measures introduced by the company also had an impact in this regard. Systematically implementing both the plan for the future and efficiency improvements is having a positive effect on profitability in the current financial year. A full year after drupa, incoming orders of € 559 million in the first quarter (previous year’s figure: € 701 million) continued to create a solid basis for positive business development, with the company’s successful participation in the China Print trade show also playing a role. HEIDELBERG develops and produces innovative control and power electronics. The company intends to use this core technology to open up new business areas, such as the defense sector. “Thanks to our global market position and an improved cost basis, we have made a good start to the new financial year,” said Jürgen Otto, CEO of HEIDELBERG. “Strategic measures in our core business, together with new options in the Technology segment and our move into the defense sector, give us cause to feel very confident about the prospects for the year as a whole.” he added. Although the free cash flow after three months was negative, as expected, it was much improved compared with the corresponding period of the previous year. Thanks to the initiation of staffing and efficiency measures, the figure of € –68 million (previous year: € –103 million) was better than envisaged. The net result after taxes in the first quarter amounted to € –11 million, which was a big improvement on the equivalent period of the previous year (€ –42 million). As of April 1, 2025, HEIDELBERG started basing its reporting on the Print & Packaging Equipment, Digital Solutions & Lifecycle, and HEIDELBERG Technology segments. The Print & Packaging Equipment segment includes offset and flexo solutions, as well as prepress and postpress solutions for packaging and commercial printing. The Digital Solutions & Lifecycle segment covers products and activities relating to software, service, consumables, and digital printing. The HEIDELBERG Technology segment primarily comprises activities outside the company’s core business, such as electromobility (Amperfied) and industry operations (production and technology solutions for third-party businesses). In the Print & Packaging Equipment segment, sales in the first quarter increased by some 42 percent to € 211 million. Digital Solutions & Lifecycle sales matched the previous year’s level, totaling € 241 million. Sales after three months in the Technology Solutions segment were also at the same level as in the corresponding period of the previous year. Adjusted EBITDA improved in all the segments. “Packaging printing remained a growth driver for our business in the first quarter,” said David Schmedding, Chief Technology & Sales Officer at HEIDELBERG. “This development reaffirms our growth strategy – the continuous and targeted expansion of our portfolio as a systems integrator for this key market segment. Our acquisition of Polar Mohr brand rights and technology to boost the productivity of value chains in packaging and label production is a further example of this approach.” he explained. As HEIDELBERG sees it, playing a leading role as a systems integrator for packaging and digital printing with hybrid printing solutions and the company’s software and service business in a digital ecosystem can offer growth potential in its core business. In the Technology segment, the focus is on expanding the operation of charging infrastructure, including DC technology, and on unlocking new market segments. MoU agreed on system partnership with defense specialist VINCORION HEIDELBERG has embarked on its first project in the defense sector and agreed a MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) on a system partnership with VINCORION Advanced Systems GmbH. This cooperation will see HEIDELBERG move into the defense market by developing, industrializing, and building power control and distribution systems for VINCORION. HEIDELBERG is aiming to become established as a reliable partner for high-quality products and gradually expand this role within the defense sector. Full-year forecast confirmed Following a positive start, the forecast for financial year 2025/26 is confirmed. In view of macroeconomic developments, taking into account the various opportunities and risks, and assuming the global economy does not see weaker growth than predicted by the relevant institutions, the company is expecting sales of around € 2,350 million in financial year 2025/26 (2024/25: € 2,280 million). The EBITDA margin adjusted for special items is predicted to rise to as much as 8 percent (previous year: 7.1 percent). Image material and further information about the company are available in the Investor Relations portal and Press Lounge of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG at www.heidelberg.com. Important note: This release contains forward-looking statements based on assumptions and estimates by the management of Heidelberger Druckmaschinen Aktiengesellschaft. Even though the management is of the opinion that these assumptions and estimates are accurate, the actual future development and results may deviate substantially from these forward-looking statements due to various factors, such as changes in the overall economic situation, in exchange and interest rates, and within

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SeABank and AFS clarified matters related to the Charter Capital Transfer Agreement of Post and Telecommunication Finance Company Limited (PTF)

HA NOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 31 July 2025 – Regarding the Charter Capital Transfer Agreement of Post and Telecommunication Finance Company Limited (“PTF“) and the public announcement issued by AEON Financial Service Co., Ltd. (“AFS“), Southeast Asia Commercial Joint Stock Bank (“SeABank“) and AFS have been engaged in constructive discussions to comprehensively clarify the issues raised by AFS in a spirit of goodwill and cooperation. SeABank and AFS foster relationship with a cooperative agreement As a result, AFS has confirmed that SeABank had no knowledge of, nor any involvement in, any potential discrepancies in provision at PTF before the closing of the transaction. Furthermore, AFS has formally withdrawn its preliminary notice relating to the transaction and reaffirmed its intention to manage and develop PTF sustainably. To foster the relationship, SeABank and AFS has signed a cooperative agreement to develop retail products and services, for the needs of both parties’ customers in Vietnam. For media inquiries, please contact: Mr. Tran Huy Hung Deputy Director, Communications and Marketing Division SeABank – Southeast Asia Commercial Joint Stock Bank 198 Tran Quang Khai Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi, Vietnam Tel: (024) 3944 8688, ext. 7803 | Fax: (024) 3944 9026 Email: [email protected] | Website: www.seabank.com.vn Hashtag: #SeABank The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

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As Singapore celebrates its 60th Birthday, Amex’s Shop Small Movement Rallies Around Local Businesses for the Sixth Year

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 31 July 2025 – American Express today announced the launch of the Shop Small movement for the sixth year in Singapore, part of its global flagship initiative to support local businesses. As part of this initiative, from 1 to 31 August, eligible American Express Card Members who enrol in the Shop Small offer on the Amex app or website will get S$3 back for every S$10 spent at about 3,500 participating businesses, up to five times[1]. Mr Marlin Brown, Country Manager for American Express Singapore said, “We’re pleased to continue supporting local businesses through Shop Small, which encourages shoppers to engage both with the businesses they know and love and new ones that make their local communities special. “With Singapore marking its 60th birthday this year, it’s a meaningful moment to recognize the contribution of local businesses to our communities. With the acceptance of American Express Cards on Singapore’s public transport and Shop Small, Card Members will enjoy a seamless experience as they commute and shop, while encouraging more footfall for local businesses.” For participating Shop Small businesses, the opportunity to reach out to new audiences has helped fuel their growth. Ms Charmaine Toh, Director of Cathay Photo, a retailer and distributor of photography and professional video equipment, said, “At Cathay Photo, we’ve worked with American Express for over 50 years. Since our establishment in 1959, we’ve built a passionate and loyal community. Through the Shop Small movement, we’ve managed to further grow this community by connecting with new audiences that understand the importance of supporting local businesses that prioritise quality and service.” American Express is backing local businesses in other ways. American Express is an Official Partner of F1 ACADEMYTM and is shining a light on female athletes alongside local female-led businesses. During the Singapore Grand Prix from 3 to 5 October 2025, a local female-owned Shop Small business will be selected and prominently featured on the American Express-branded F1 ACADEMY livery. The 2025 F1 ACADEMY races are broadcasted in over 160 territories and streamed live worldwide – which will help the featured local business expand their reach and exposure globally. [1] Learn more about the offer at go.amex/shopsmallsg. Terms and conditions apply. Hashtag: #Amex The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Shop Small Shop Small is a national movement founded by American Express in 2010 in the US to ignite passion for small and local businesses, call attention to the valuable contributions they make to their communities and the economy and encourage shoppers to support them. Learn more at americanexpress.com.sg/shopsmall. About American Express American Express (NYSE: AXP) is a global payments and premium lifestyle brand powered by technology. Our colleagues around the world back our customers with differentiated products, services and experiences that enrich lives and build business success. Founded in 1850 and headquartered in New York, American Express’ brand is built on trust, security, and service, and a rich history of delivering innovation and Membership value for our customers. With over a hundred million merchant locations across our global network, we seek to provide the world’s best customer experience every day to a broad range of consumers, small and medium-sized businesses, and large corporations. For more information about American Express, visit americanexpress.com, americanexpress.com/en-us/newsroom/, and ir.americanexpress.com

Media OutReach

Cushman & Wakefield Announces Key Appointments Across Combined APAC & EMEA Business

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 31 July 2025 – Cushman & Wakefield has elevated three senior leaders to newly-created positions in its combined APAC & EMEA business. The two regions were brought together in May under the leadership of Matthew Bouw, who has established an operating model to drive innovation and value for clients and support growth across the business. Matthew Bouw, Chief Executive, APAC & EMEA, Cushman & Wakefield, said: “The process to determine the optimal operating model for delivering our growth agenda has only reinforced the complementary strengths of the two regions and my excitement about the opportunity in front of us. Central to our thinking has been ensuring we enable exceptional advice and execution on the front line by bringing the best of Cushman & Wakefield globally to our local markets. It is a pleasure to elevate these outstanding leaders from across our combined business into roles where they can have the greatest impact.” James Young is promoted to President – Markets, APAC & EMEA, a new role with ultimate responsibility for specific service lines spanning different geographies, including capital markets, leasing, tenant representation, and asset services, as well as sectors including offices, retail, logistics & industrial and living. Young has been with the firm 35 years, holding a variety of leadership roles across both regions. Tom Gibson is appointed President – Project & Development Services and Sustainability, APAC & EMEA. Gibson will be responsible for Project & Development Services and Sustainability Services across the combined business, leveraging the depth and quality of the firm’s specialist expertise across both regions to enhance its support for clients. His expanded role also includes continued responsibility for the fast-growing data centres asset class. Emma Rossetti expands her role to Head of Operations, APAC & EMEA. She will be responsible for simplifying business processes, improving efficiency, and driving economies of scale, allowing frontline leaders to focus more time on clients and revenue growth. Bouw added: “James, Tom and Emma and are proven leaders who will be integral to our success across both regions as we move forwards together into our next chapter of growth.” Read this press release on the Cushman & Wakefield website here Hashtag: #Cushman&Wakefield The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Cushman & Wakefield Cushman & Wakefield (NYSE: CWK) is a leading global commercial real estate services firm for property owners and occupiers with approximately 52,000 employees in nearly 400 offices and 60 countries. In Greater China, a network of 23 offices serves local markets across the region. In 2024, the firm reported revenue of $9.4 billion across its core services of Valuation, Consulting, Project & Development Services, Capital Markets, Project & Occupier Services, Industrial & Logistics, Retail, and others. Built around the belief that Better never settles, the firm receives numerous industry and business accolades for its award-winning culture. For additional information, visit www.cushmanwakefield.com.hk or follow us on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/cushman-&-wakefield-greater-china).

Media OutReach

Asian Agri Hosts “Healthy and Smart Together” Initiative with Community Partners in Medan to Enhance Health and Literacy Awareness

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 31 July 2025 – Asian Agri, in collaboration with Tanoto Foundation, the Medan City Health Office, the Medan City Library and Archives Office and Puskesmas Belawan, hosted a “Healthy and Smart Together” event at Thamrin Plaza in Medan and Kong Tek Cun Ong Temple (KTCOT) in Belawan, North Sumatra earlier this year. This initiative aims to enhance the community’s health and literacy awareness to improve their quality of life. The two-day event at Thamrin Plaza and KTCOT attracted over 500 participants and offered a variety of services and activities, including free blood pressure and blood sugar screenings as well as educational programmes on the prevention and early detection of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). The event at Thamrin Plaza further included an affordable premium cooking oil bazaar. Putu Grhyate Yonata Aksa, Manager of Sustainability Operations and CSR at Asian Agri, a member of the Royal Golden Eagle (RGE) group of companies founded by Sukanto Tanoto, highlighted the company’s commitment to inclusive growth and said: “This initiative is a testament to our commitment to supporting health and increasing public literacy. Through collaborations like these, we hope to continue making a positive impact on the lives of Medan’s residents.” Felly Ardan, Project Management Unit Coordinator for Tanoto Foundation, explained that the objective of the events was to raise public awareness about the importance of health prevention and early detection. “Through free services like blood pressure and blood sugar checks, along with health education, the community can more easily monitor their health,” Felly said. “This programme not only promotes healthy habits but also strengthens the community’s role in creating a healthier, higher-quality environment.” Meanwhile, Rosmina Salim, Regional Lead at Tanoto Foundation in North Sumatra, emphasised that the collaboration reflects the commitment to improving people’s quality of life. “The collaboration between Asian Agri, Tanoto Foundation, Belawan Health Centre and the Medan City Library and Archives Service highlights our dedication to improving the community’s well-being in health and literacy,” Rosmina said. “By providing access to health checks and educational books, we hope the community will better understand the importance of early disease prevention and develop a stronger interest in reading.” In partnership with the Medan City Library and Archives Office, Tanoto Foundation also provided a mobile library service, offering educational books and reading materials to help broaden public knowledge. Pocut Fatimah Fitri, MARS, Head of Disease Prevention and Control at Medan City Health Service, expressed strong support for the event, said: “Through free health check-ups and education, we aim to encourage proactive health management. The collaboration between Asian Agri, Tanoto Foundation and the Medan City Library and Archives Service demonstrates how synergy among various sectors can create a broad, positive impact.” Laksamana Putra Siregar, Head of the Medan City Library and Archives Service, also emphasised the importance of literacy as a tool for improving the quality of life. “Literacy is not only about reading skills, but also about increasing knowledge for a better life. We are proud to support this initiative, which will help expand access to educational resources and foster a culture of learning among the citizens of Medan,” Laskamana commented. Head of Belawan Health Centre Mohd Mukhlis, added: “Collaboration with various parties, including the Medan City Library and Archives Service, strengthens our efforts in providing holistic services, because health and education are two interrelated aspects.” Hashtag: #RGE #AsianAgri #TanotoFoundation #CSR #Indonesia #Inclusivegrowth #PositiveImpact https://www.asianagri.com The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. About Asian Agri Founded in 1979, Asian Agri is one of Indonesia’s foremost companies in crude palm oil production, managing over 100,000 hectares of oil palm plantations and employing over 200,000 people. As a pioneer of the Indonesian Government’s Smallholder Transmigration Core Plantation Programme (PIR-Trans), Asian Agri has partnered with 30,000 scheme smallholders in Riau and Jambi, who collectively manage 60,000 hectares of oil palm plantations. The company also fosters partnerships with independent smallholders to enhance their welfare and drive socio-economic growth. Committed to sustainable practices, Asian Agri upholds a zero-burning policy and implements plantation best management practices to help smallholders boost productivity, increase crop yields, and improve supply chain traceability, while supporting their journey towards certification. Asian Agri’s mills leveraged advanced technology and self-generated green energy to minimise greenhouse gas emissions. Asian Agri’s plantations, as along with their scheme smallholder plantations, are fully Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO) and International Sustainability & Carbon Certification (ISCC) certified, underscoring the company’s commitment to responsible and sustainable palm oil production.

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