HONG KONG SAR  – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 December 2025 – The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government is going all out to support victims and investigate the cause of a massive fire that engulfed seven out of eight high-rise residential blocks at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, Hong Kong, on November 26.

The tragedy prompted an outpouring of support from the public and urgent actions from the HKSAR Government to provide all-round assistance to the victims while launching a thorough investigation into the cause of the blaze.

Government support across multiple areas

 John Lee, Chief Executive of the HKSAR, emphasised that the Government attaches high importance to the well-being of affected residents, focusing not only on immediate relief aid but also their various long-term living needs.

As a top priority, the Government immediately started providing support across multiple areas, including financial aid, accommodation, medical assistance, and counselling.

Regarding financial support, the Government has been offering an emergency cash subsidy of HK$10,000 (US$1,282) per affected household, with more than 1,900 households registering for the subsidy.

Moreover, the Support Fund for Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po has been set up with an initial HK$300 million (US$38 million) injection from the Government. The fund has so far raised a total of HK$2.3 billion (US$294 million), including HK$2 billion (US$256 million) from donations. The fund will be used to assist the residents in rebuilding their homes and providing long-term and sustained support, including families of each deceased victim receiving HK$200,000 (US$25,641) as a token of solidarity as well as HK$50,000 (US$6,410) to cover funeral costs.

As for foreign domestic helpers who lost their life in the incident, the next of kin of each deceased helper will receive roughly HK$800,000 (US$102,564) from the Government, including a one-off financial assistance of HK$250,000 (US$32,051) and the statutory compensation of over HK$500,000 (US$64,102).

The Government will also provide four special subsidies, namely the injury grant (HK$50,000 to HK$100,000, i.e. US$6,410 to US$12,820), the student grant (HK$20,000, i.e. US$2,564), the subsidy for workers (HK$20,000, i.e. US$2,564) and the subsidy for foreign domestic helpers (HK$20,000, i.e. US$2,564).

So far, more than 1,000 residents have been accommodated in youth hostels/camps or hotel rooms and another 1,600 residents have moved into transitional housing units. Furthermore, two shelters remain in operation for residents in need.

HKSAR’s Chief Executive John Lee (third left) visits affected residents being accommodated in transitional housing.

Criminal and fire investigations

Initial investigations have raised serious concerns in a number of areas with more than a dozen individuals from various construction and engineering consultancy companies arrested on suspicion of manslaughter in connection with the tragedy.

Various building materials, including scaffolding netting, foam boards and canvas, have been seized from the scene for further testing and investigation. The Police and the Independent Commission Against Corruption have established a joint task force to conduct a comprehensive criminal investigation.

Independent committee to conduct review

Mr Lee has also announced the establishment of an independent committee, headed by a judge, to conduct a comprehensive and in-depth review.

“I call for a thorough investigation and serious reform. We’ll overcome the obstacles of vested interests, pursue accountability, regardless of who he or she is. We must uncover the truth, ensure that justice is served, let the deceased rest in peace and provide comfort to the living.

“While criminal and fire investigations are proceeding continuously, I will establish an independent committee to conduct a comprehensive and in-depth review to reform the building works system and prevent similar tragedies from occurring in the future. To ensure the committee’s independence and credibility, I will invite a judge to lead its work. I shall liaise with him to define its detailed terms of reference, and at the same time, I will explore ways to assist in supporting the committee’s operational efficiency such that the Government can provide more detailed information or carry out some work on its direction so as to enable it to complete its task efficiently and submit a report early to the Chief Executive with recommendations to assist the Government to make the reform,” Mr Lee said on December 2.

Meanwhile, the Chief Executive announced that the upcoming Legislative Council General Election would go ahead as planned on December 7.

“Only by enabling the new Legislative Council members to assume their duties promptly can we advance post-disaster reconstruction, follow-up support, recovery efforts, and the necessary legislative reviews and reforms more swiftly and effectively,” Mr Lee said. “Many initiatives require Legislative Council deliberation, funding approval, and law-making before implementation. This represents the most responsible approach towards Hong Kong’s future.” 

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 December 2025 – Siam Paragon, one of the world’s most visited global landmarks, continues to lead as a premier destination delivering experiences beyond expectations. For two decades, it has pioneered new retail prototypes and shaped defining success stories in Thailand’s retail and lifestyle landscape. Its newest milestone is NEXTOPIA: The Prototype for the World of Tomorrow, an unprecedented future world co-created with global innovation leaders, business alliances, communities, academic partners, and creators. Designed to enrich quality living and meaningful happiness, NEXTOPIA invites everyone to Join us in the Making of a Better World, reinforcing Siam Piwat’s role as a global game changer and a showcase of Thai creativity.

NEXTOPIA: A Future City Built on a Revolutionary Concept

Spanning more than 15,000 sq.m. across Levels 5 and 5A, NEXTOPIA represents a prototype future city where sustainability, innovation, and human well-being converge. Every dimension—from architecture and air quality to retail, dining, and activities—integrates sustainability into daily living, transforming complex concepts into experiences that are intuitive and accessible. The project demonstrates how a retail destination can evolve into a living blueprint of a next-generation urban environment, inspiring new possibilities for cities around the world.

The NEXTOPIA Model is built on three pillars:

• Future-Ready Infrastructure:Co-developed with leading organizations integrating technology, engineering, and urban insight into a forward-looking ecosystem.
• Communities for Impact:Environmental groups and social-impact organizations inspiring long-term change.
• Purpose-Driven Retail:Brands and SMEs delivering offerings grounded in sustainability and responsible design.

NEXTOPIA reinforces Siam Piwat’s commitment to responsible development. In 2025, Siam Paragon became Thailand’s first retail group to source over 30% certified renewable energy through the MEA UGT1 program. NEXTOPIA also achieved Fitwel 2-Star Certification, the first multi-tenant retail project in Thailand with this global benchmark for health and well-being.

Global Collaboration for a Better World

NEXTOPIA is strengthened by collaboration with major international organizations, including agencies of the United Nations and leading sustainability institutions. More than 50 companies across energy, engineering, materials, design, and technology contribute to the project. This collective effort demonstrates how coordinated action across public, private, academic, and community sectors can accelerate progress toward a better world. Academic partners guide research and the translation of scientific insight into real-world application, ensuring ongoing relevance as technologies and global challenges evolve.

Sustainable Innovation & Integrated Infrastructure

NEXTOPIA becomes the first global retail destination to integrate advanced sustainability solutions, creative collaboration, and real-time environmental performance in one ecosystem. Key features include clean-energy platforms, next-generation cooling, low-emission materials, and air-quality systems engineered to reduce impact while elevating comfort. Renewable energy is produced on-site, and intelligent systems continuously monitor air quality and efficiency. Materials used throughout the space are recyclable, low-VOC, and environmentally safe.

Art and architecture elevate the experience through installations such as The Tree of Life, The Spiral, and The Forest and Ocean Canopies, crafted from recycled and repurposed materials. These express NEXTOPIA’s belief that sustainability and creativity can coexist beautifully and meaningfully.

The Globe: A New Lens on Our Planet

At the heart of NEXTOPIA stands The Globe, an immersive installation that presents live planetary information, climate patterns, and environmental data visualized in real time, using insights from international earth-science agencies. A digital dashboard showcases NEXTOPIA’s resource usage, renewable-energy generation, and waste reduction, allowing visitors to understand how their participation contributes to measurable impact.

Playful Participation Through Experimental Engagement

NEXTOPIA transforms sustainability learning into enjoyable encounters. Highlights include an indoor vertical farm where visitors plant and harvest produce; augmented-reality binoculars revealing layers of innovation; and interactive zones where movement generates renewable energy. NEXTOPIA’s mascots add imagination and connection, especially for younger audiences, making sustainability more approachable and memorable for families.

The digital extension, NEXTOPIA World on the ONESIAM SuperApp, enables users to explore zones, access stories, participate in missions, and earn Green Points rewarding sustainable behavior both on-site and online.

A Platform for Learning, Collaboration, and Impact

NEXTOPIA hosts ongoing workshops, exhibitions, and talks led by sustainability experts, entrepreneurs, and creative professionals. The Community Room serves as an open hub for co-working and civic engagement. Under the mission of Global Awareness, NEXTOPIA collaborates with organizations dedicated to environmental protection, social equity, animal welfare, and community support. Their presence highlights the power of collective action driven by shared purpose and the potential of everyday citizens to contribute meaningfully.

A diverse community of creators, innovators, and storytellers join as Friends of NEXTOPIA, contributing knowledge, creativity, and inspiration through conversations, storytelling, and participatory experiences that amplify the project’s broader mission.

A Platform for Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurs

NEXTOPIA empowers entrepreneurs developing meaningful solutions for people and the planet. Guided by Sustainability + Equality + Inclusivity, retailers curate products and services that are thoughtful, creative, and socially responsible. Every visit reinforces the belief that value is created through participation, shared responsibility, and actions that contribute to a better future.

ECOTOPIA: A Creative Ecosystem for Green Innovation

ECOTOPIA curates sustainable products across multiple categories and is recognized among Asia’s 20 Coolest Retailers. Sustainable brands and makers join the ecosystem, offering innovative products that support circular-economy values and community well-being.

Pet-friendly experiences are included, with curated retail zones and professional veterinary services offering solutions for modern pet owners.

A New Standard of Sustainable Dining

NEXTOPIA’s dining concepts operate responsibly, emphasizing waste reduction, conscious sourcing, and clean-energy usage. Menus feature ingredients from local producers. Visitors can enjoy global and Thai dining favorites, along with cafés offering employment opportunities for underrepresented groups.

Level 4 is home to EATELIER, Bangkok’s first Eat–Drink–Chill hub merging culinary innovation with music, culture, and art through co-created experiences.

A New Era for Siam Paragon

NEXTOPIA marks the most significant transformation in Siam Paragon’s 20-year history, joining world-class attractions such as MELAND, one of the world’s most advanced indoor theme parks. As Siam Paragon enters a new decade, NEXTOPIA strengthens its position as a visionary retail developer and reinforces its status as a global destination celebrated by visitors from Thailand and around the world.

HONG KONG SAR/DUBAI, UAE – Media OutReach Newswire – 1 December 2025 – Asia Business Centre (AsiaBC), a Hong Kong-based leader in corporate services and cross-border startup consultancy, has been named “Outstanding Company Formation Services of the Year“ at the HKCT Business Awards 2025.

Presented by the Hong Kong Commercial Times (HKCT), the award recognises AsiaBC’s excellence in helping global founders establish, scale, and succeed in business hubs across Asia and the Middle East. With deep expertise in regulatory frameworks and banking ecosystems, AsiaBC helps entrepreneurs overcome market-entry challenges faced by SMEs and new ventures.

AsiaBC plays a key role in simplifying and accelerating incorporation, bank account setup, and international compliance in Hong Kong, Singapore, and offshore centres.

AsiaBC’s Expertise Solves Hong Kong Setup Challenges

Since 2009, AsiaBC has turned entrepreneurial vision into operational businesses through end-to-end support. Beyond company registration, the team guides clients through structuring, documentation, bank onboarding, tax planning, and accounting, ensuring that each step fits the business model.

AsiaBC demystifies cross-border operations by leveraging market insight and ties with over 100 banks and FinTech providers. The firm delivers reduced setup time, guaranteed bank account results under its “No Win, No Fee” programme, and proven legal readiness. One recent case saw a client complete company formation and bank account opening in Hong Kong on the same day, just before flying home. Another client, a tech startup, secured banking approval within 48 hours, enabling rapid launch into the APAC market.

AI-Powered Compliance & UAE Hub to Serve Global Founders

To better serve international entrepreneurs, AsiaBC is broadening its presence and technology.

In 2026, AsiaBC will open its first advisory hub in Dubai to support UAE entrepreneurs entering Asia. Services will include offshore company planning, tax coordination, risk assessment, and compliance across jurisdictions.

AsiaBC is also launching AI-enabled tools to make bank onboarding more predictable. A smart matching engine will analyse each client’s profile – including business model and risk category – and map it to onboarding preferences across AsiaBC’s banking network. Drawing on 6,000+ cases, this tool aims to shorten approval time and improve success rates, especially for founders under scrutiny.

“For 16 years, we’ve followed one principle: ‘Professionalism is the foundation, but solving problems is the core,’” said Raymond Wong, Managing Director. “This award affirms our commitment to outcome-driven solutions that help clients expand smoothly and sustainably.”

Championing the Entrepreneurial Spirit
AsiaBC’s client-first strategy includes:

• Tailored support from incorporation to compliance
• Guaranteed banking results
• Strong ecosystem relationships
• Multilingual support in English, French, Spanish, Russian, and Mandarin

About AsiaBC

Founded in 2009, AsiaBC supports entrepreneurs through offices in Hong Kong, Singapore, the Philippines, Dubai, the UK, Estonia, Turkey, and Brazil. Awarded HKCT’s “Outstanding Company Formation Services of the Year”, its services span bank account opening, incorporation, accounting, tax optimisation, and compliance.

AsiaBC has served 6,000+ corporate clients and successfully opened 3,000+ corporate bank accounts worldwide.

 Experience the Ultimate Preview: the Porsche Design Tower Bangkok Show Suite

 STUTTGART, GERMANY / BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 November 2025 – Porsche Design Tower Bangkok, Asia’s first ultra-luxury residence with automotive-DNA, proudly announces the official opening of its exclusive Show Suite. This experience is tailor-made for those appreciating unparalleled design, exclusivity and innovation. A landmark collaboration between the exclusive lifestyle brand Porsche Design and the prominent Thai real estate developer Ananda Development, it redefines one-of-a-kind urban living, blending automotive design expertise with uncompromising functionality.

The Show Suite is more than a conventional show unit; it’s an invitation to experience a meticulously crafted simulation of life within the Porsche Design Tower Bangkok, the future architectural masterpiece located on Sukhumvit 38 in the vibrant Thonglor area of Thailand’s capital city. This journey into ultra-luxury is an exclusive offering for those whose refined taste seeks an experience beyond the conventional. Available exclusively by private appointment, this bespoke encounter unfolds as curated discoveries, allowing prospective owners to feel, imagine, and connect with the unique Porsche Design living vision. Each step reveals the project’s essence, from its strategic urban placement to the innovative integration of personal passions within a private sanctuary.

 The tour culminates in a glimpse of a multi-level residence, accessed via a private lift directly into the villa. This expansive living environment exemplifies engineered elegance. Within, one discovers thoughtfully designed spaces for entertaining, privacy, a sophisticated culinary zone, wellness areas, and a private swimming pool. A unique technological marvel allows guests to experience future views, dynamically adapting to time and perspective, offering a personalized preview.

“The opening of our Show Suite marks a pivotal moment in redefining ultra-luxury living in Bangkok,” stated Chanond Ruangkritya, President and Chief Executive Officer of Ananda Development. “Within this exclusive experience, discerning individuals can grasp the vision behind bringing the first Porsche Design Tower to Asia – a testament to Thailand’s emergence as a global luxury hub and Ananda’s commitment to delivering architectural masterpieces that transcend expectations.”

Stefan Buescher, Chairman of the Executive Board of Porsche Lifestyle Group, added, “Just like the Porsche Design Tower Bangkok sets new standards, the Show Suite offers an unparalleled experience. It is the ultimate physical manifestation of our design principles, meticulously crafted to offer an immersive journey where every detail, material choice, and design element comes to life to represent the authentic Porsche lifestyle.”

With only 22 units, Porsche Design Tower Bangkok offers an unparalleled opportunity to own architectural history. Each residence embodies Professor F. A. Porsche’s philosophy of ‘optimizing the function while reducing the form to the essentials,’ creating a timeless and visionary living space.

The Show Suite is available for private viewing by appointment. To arrange your exclusive visit, please contact sales@pdtowerbangkok.com or visit pdtowerbangkok.com.

About Porsche Design Tower Bangkok

The Porsche Design Tower Bangkok sets a new standard for ultra luxury living with its limited offering of just 22 exclusive residences. Located on Sukhumvit 38, one of Bangkok’s most prestigious addresses, this groundbreaking project is the first of its kind in Asia and the third globally, following Miami and Stuttgart. Designed for ultra-high-net-worth individuals seeking unparalleled exclusivity, the tower offers residents the perfect blend of serene living in the coveted Thonglor neighborhood, with easy access to the city’s most vibrant attractions and amenities. Among its standout features are the customizable “Passion Spaces”—private, in-unit garages that allow residents to showcase their prized car collections, creating a truly unique living experience.