Our enduring approach to a changing climate

October 16, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

The Government has released New Zealand’s first National Adaptation Framework to ensure people know what risks they face and what the plan is to address them, Climate Change Minister Simon Watts says.

“New Zealand faces growing risks from floods, storms and other natural hazards. We need our country and economy to be resilient and well-prepared,” Mr Watts says.

“That’s why the Government is introducing the National Adaptation Framework to give us an enduring system that prepares New Zealand for the impacts of climate change, supports economic growth and keeps the overall costs to our society as low as possible.”

The Framework includes four pillars with 16 actions all designed to ensure New Zealand is prepared for the effects of climate change. These pillars include:

Risks and response information sharing
Roles and responsibilities
Investment in risk reduction
Cost-sharing pre-and post-event

“One of the more significant pillars is ensuring New Zealanders have access to better information about the risks they face, especially from flooding,” Mr Watts says.

“New Zealand’s first-ever National Flood Map will show where flooding is likely to happen, both now and in the future as a result of climate change. We’ll make the map readily available, to make it easy for anyone to look up and understand their risks.”

Work is underway, with the first iteration of the map expected to be available before the end of next year.

“We want the best minds in modelling and technology, nationally and internationally, to help us tackle this. The Ministry for the Environment will today release a Request for Information inviting input from external organisations to support the development of the map,” Mr Watts says,

“We are also introducing legislation to clarify the responsibility of local government by requiring adaptation plans in the highest priority areas. We have seen in recent years just how devastating floods can be, and we need to make sure our need to make sure our highest risks are being addressed.

“The new adaptation plans will help people understand what the risks are, how this will be managed, and what investment will happen in their area, so people know what to expect.”

Alongside the map and legislation, the Framework brings together new and existing actions across New Zealand’s economy.

“Adaptation can’t happen in a silo. We’re taking action across the whole system, to sharpen our focus and make sure we are building in resilience as part of strengthening and growing our economy,” Mr Watts says.

“We will keep building on these foundations over time, including taking further decisions on issues such as cost-sharing. It is important we take time to work through all these issues to ensure this framework can endure.”

MIL OSI

PACIFIC: Collision of crises deepens child nutrition challenges in PNG, Solomon Islands and Vanuatu – Save the Children

LiveNews Publisher

October 16, 2025

Source: Save the Children

A new study from Save the Children released on World Food Day is warning that climate change is worsening child malnutrition in Papua New Guinea (PNG), Solomon Islands and Vanuatu, as climate-induced disasters become more frequent and intense in the Pacific.

The relationship between the urgent crises of malnutrition and climate change is still emerging and underexamined. Save the Children’s study has found that climate change is making it significantly harder for families to access healthy food, affecting not only how food is grown but also raises the price of produce, impacts livelihoods and limits market access. All of this reduces the availability and market stability of fresh, nutritious foods and pushes people toward cheaper, unhealthy options.

The figures are alarming. Melanesia faces a ‘triple burden of malnutrition’. One in three Melanesian children faces stunting, anemia, or being overweight. Almost half of PNG’s children (48.2%) have stunted growth due to chronic malnutrition. In Solomon Islands, nearly 32% of children are stunted and in Vanuatu, the prevalence of stunting is 29%, with wasting affecting 8% of children under five.

Meanwhile, the region grapples with some of the world’s fastest-intensifying climate-induced disasters. In 2023, Vanuatu experienced three severe tropical cyclones, with Tropical Cyclone Lola the earliest Category 5 cyclone ever recorded in the southern hemisphere, making it the most intense pre-season cyclone ever.

Annette is a 32-year-old mother of two, currently pregnant with her third child. She lives in Vanuatu’s Shefa Province which was severely hit by twin tropical cyclones Judy and Kevin in 2023. She told Save the Children,

” Climate change has had a serious impact on our gardens. The quality of some local produce is not what it was 10 to 15 years ago. For those of us who depend on the local market, it’s especially difficult-our small planting areas are no longer healthy or fertile. I see children becoming malnourished because they’re not eating the right kinds of food. Instead, they’re filling up on things like uncooked noodles, sweets, and soft drinks.”

Across the three countries, repeated climate-related disasters such as cyclones and floods destroy crops and affect fishing grounds, disrupting local food supplies and cutting access to vital nutrients like protein, iron and zinc. At the same time, essential water, sanitation and health infrastructure are damaged and become challenging to access for already remote island populations. Community members are reporting that these cumulative effects are becoming harder to bounce back from, making it a struggle to keep children fed and protected from illness.

During the critical first 1,000 days of life (from conception to their second birthday) children require optimal nutrition to establish foundations for lifelong health and development. However, the Pacific’s fragile food, water and health systems are creating the devastating triple burden of malnutrition including:

– Undernutrition and stunting

– Rising obesity rates

– ‘Hidden hunger’: the lack of essential vitamins and minerals required to grow

Save the Children Vanuatu Country Director, Polly Banks says the impacts of climate change are systematically undermining the food, health and water systems that underpin child nutrition, making recovery from crises increasingly difficult and creating long-term developmental setbacks.

“Communities across the Pacific are on the front line of the climate crisis, with little recovery time between climate-induced disasters. This study draws attention to the pressing challenges facing communities already struggling to ensure their children have healthy and nutritious diets.

“Across the world, but especially in the Pacific, the first 1,000 days of a child’s life is critical, and climate induced cyclones, changing rainfall and rising sea levels will increase the vulnerability that children and their communities are facing. “We cannot look at the child nutrition crisis in the Pacific and the very real threat of climate change as two separate issues; they are and have always been connected and we have an opportunity to address the risks that this poses.

“We are calling for increased attention on embedding nutrition in climate adaptation efforts and to increase climate-sensitive approach into key sectors – food, health and water systems. We have an opportunity to act now, before the impacts of climate change on nutrition become irreversible.”

Save the Children is calling for Pacific governments and partners to integrate nutrition into climate adaptation policies and programs across agriculture, health, social protection, and infrastructure to ensure vulnerable populations are protected and can build resilience.

The study was commissioned and managed by Save the Children and undertaken by Dikoda. A webinar launching the study with experts from across the region will take place 1-2pm Fiji time (16 October). A link to the webinar can be found here:

Who: Alisi Tuqa, Food Systems Programme Lead, The Pacific Community Tracy Yuen, Pacific Regional Health and Nutrition Technical Advisor, Save the Children Haruka, NextGen Climate Youth Ambassador Vanuatu and Asia-Pacific Youth Representative for the Born into the Climate Crisis II study Gladys Habu, UNICEF Pacific Ambassador, Solomon Islands.

MIL OSI

Police seek information following fatal crash, Piarere

LiveNews Publisher

October 16, 2025

Source: New Zealand Police

Taupō Police are seeking information follow a fatal crash on State Highway 1, Pairere yesterday evening.

Police and other emergency services responded to the crash near the intersection of State Highway 1 and Horahora Road at around 7:50pm Wednesday 15 October.

Police are asking for anyone who witnessed or has dashcam footage of the crash to please contact Police immediately.

We are also asking for anyone that may have witnessed unusual or poor driving behaviour that involved a grey SUV or small silver hatchback, in and around the Pairere area on Wednesday 15 October, to please come forward.

Information can be provided by calling 105 and quoting file number 251016/7055.

Police can confirm that the Serious Crash Unit have completed a scene examination, and the road reopened in the early hours of this morning.

We thank motorists for their patience and cooperation during this time.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

MIL OSI

Statement on the passing of Rt Hon Jim Bolger

LiveNews Publisher

October 16, 2025

Source: New Zealand Government

My thoughts and condolences are with Jim Bolger’s wife Joan, his children and grandchildren, and the rest of his extended family.

Mr Bolger was a proud New Zealander who served his country as Prime Minister during a difficult period of serious transition in our politics.

Everyone with a knowledge of New Zealand political history from the late 1980s and early 1990s will know that the two of us sometimes had our policy differences!

But from 1996 onwards, Mr Bolger and I led New Zealand’s first MMP Government – which was a coalition between NZ First and National.

As the leader of Mr Bolger’s coalition partner, I can attest he was a man of his word. He did what he said he would do – and we ran our Coalition Government with integrity, focus and a fidelity to New Zealanders who had delivered a majority to our two political parties.

After leaving politics, Mr Bolger continued to play a role in advancing New Zealand’s interests on the international stage – including as New Zealand Ambassador to the United States at a time when we were seeking to bring our two countries closer together.

Mr Bolger should be remembered warmly as a New Zealander who devoted his life to our great country.

MIL OSI

Project for Love Expands Compassion-Based Education Across Africa

MIL OSI

October 16, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA – African Media Agency (AMA) – 15 October 2025 – Project for Love, a global educational movement rooted in loving-kindness and compassion, is deepening its impact in Africa. Building on work in South Africa, Ghana, Kenya, and Rwanda, the organization has now launched partnerships in Uganda and Tanzania to advance its mission of transforming education through empathy, integrity, and service.

Eduardo Said Pichardo Gelly, Global Director, Project for Love

Eduardo Said Pichardo Gelly, Global Director, Project for Love

International humanitarian and educator Eduardo Said Pichardo Gelly leads Project for Love with a simple yet powerful philosophy: lasting happiness comes from serving others. This belief underpins the organization’s work in underserved communities across Africa and Asia, where it supports school infrastructure, teacher development, and holistic, values-based learning.

“I began this journey practicing loving-kindness meditation,” says Pichardo Gelly. “It transformed my worldview. True happiness comes when we seek the joy of others. That vision guides everything we do.”

With the goal of reaching 300,000 schools and transforming 30 million children’s lives worldwide in the next decade, Project for Love places Africa at the heart of its mission. The organization is already making progress through school revitalization projects, teacher training, and the integration of compassion-based curricula.

Among its achievements are the rejuvenation of rural schools, introduction of mindfulness and emotional intelligence programs, and the empowerment of teachers to build caring and inclusive classrooms. Project for Love’s approach goes beyond infrastructure—it seeks to reshape educational culture by embedding kindness, empathy, and integrity into every learning experience.

To nurture future leaders grounded in compassion, the initiative promotes mentorship, ethical education, and self-awareness. “We’re not just reforming education,” says Pichardo Gelly. “We’re leading a global movement toward shared humanity and sustainable living.”

Guided by a global board of directors and an advisory council of educators and leaders, Project for Love thrives through the collaboration of local communities. “The real heroes,” says Pichardo Gelly, “are those on the ground bringing this vision to life.”

Hashtag: #ProjectforLove

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

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

Galaxy Macau Presents Tatler Off Menu; Returns with a Stellar Line-up of Chefs to Illuminate Macau as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy

MIL OSI

October 16, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

Macau’s cornerstone culinary event brings the region’s top talents to Galaxy Macau from November 14 to 15 with early-bird ticketing by October 26.

MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2025 – Galaxy Macau Presents Tatler Off Menu returns to Galaxy Macau from November 14 to 15, once again celebrating the extraordinary artistry of gastronomy with a meticulously curated international ensemble of award-winning chefs recognised by distinguished lists such as the Michelin Guide, The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, and Tatler Best – each known for pushing culinary boundaries and redefining food as an art form, cementing Galaxy Macau as the unrivalled stage for the gala. Tickets for one of the city’s most anticipated culinary celebrations are on sale now.

Galaxy Macau Presents Tatler Off Menu returns in 2025 with a star-studded line-up of the most highly-awarded chefs from Asia’s best restaurants.

This year’s event features an unprecedented tasting journey across three sessions: dinner on the first day, followed by lunch and dinner on the second. Inspired by the elements of Ocean, Sky, and Land, the menu will weave together flavours, textures, ingredients, and atmospheres drawn from each dimension.

At this year’s gala – a cornerstone gastronomic event across the region since its inaugural edition in 2023 – guests can expect bold, imaginative and exquisite creations by 11 remarkable culinary masters across the region.

Galaxy Macau Presents Tatler Off Menu returns in 2025 with a star-studded line-up of the most highly-awarded chefs from Asia’s best restaurants.

Leading the “Ocean” category are Chef Masaaki Miyakawa from three-Michelin-starred Sushi Miyakawa (Hokkaido); Chef Jingye Xu from two-Michelin-starred 102 House (Shanghai); and Chef Aditya Muskita from ESA (Jakarta), a Tatler Best Indonesia winner. The “Sky” themed segment features Chef Chek Keong Chan from two-Michelin-starred Feng Wei Ju (StarWorld Hotel, Macau); Chef Varun Totlani from Masque (Mumbai), ranked #19 on Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants; and Chef Min-Chul Kang from one-Michelin-starred KANG MINCHUL Restaurant (Seoul). For “Land”, banner includes Chef Hiroyasu Kawate from two-Michelin-starred Florilège (Tokyo); Chef Vicky Cheng from one-Michelin-starred VEA (Hong Kong); and Chef Marino D’Antonio from one-Michelin-starred 8½ Otto e Mezzo BOMBANA at Galaxy Macau (Macau). The Pastry showcase is led by Chef Fabrizio Fiorani of Zucchero X Fabrizio Fiorani (Rome), recognised as “Asia’s Best Pastry Chef” by The World’s 50 Best, and Chef Lok Hin Yam of StarWorld Hotel, Galaxy Macau and Broadway Macau (Macau), awarded “Best Pastry Chef” by Tatler Best Hong Kong & Macau.

Helming the cocktail counter will be Billy Choi, the head bartender of Pony & Plume, the latest by-invitation only whiskey bar and divan at Galaxy Macau, and guest mixologists Ajit Gurung from The Savoury Project (Hong Kong), ranked number 32 on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars list.

Renowned DJ and live entertainers will be invited to tune up the vibes, leading to an even more unforgettable Galaxy Macau Presents Tatler Off Menu.

Galaxy Macau Presents Tatler Off Menu promises to be the gastronomic highlight of the year, where guests will be captivated by the creativity of the culinary world’s brightest stars, who will take the stage in Macau, a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, for one thrilling weekend only.

Galaxy Macau™ Presents Tatler Off Menu

Date	November 14, 2025 (Friday) \| 18:30 – 22:30 November 15, 2025 (Saturday) \| 12:00 – 15:00 / 18:30 – 22:30
Venue	Cabana – 2/F, Galaxy Macau
Price	Early Bird: Tickets purchased on or before October 26 enjoy 20% off
	Special Package for 2 pax – MOP3,376 (Early Bird: MOP 2,701) Special Package for 4 pax – MOP6,752 (Early Bird: MOP 5,402) Special Package for 6 pax – MOP10,128 (Early Bird: MOP 8,103) Inclusive of: Admission and seating on the pool deck* 3 mini tasting menus of 11 dishes inspired by the sky, ocean, and land (3 appetizers, 6 mains, 2 desserts) Choice of 1 cocktail or mocktail per person Inclusive of a 10% service charge *Seating will be assigned by staff	Cabana VIP Package for 8 8 pax – MOP13,504 (Early Bird: MOP 10,804) Inclusive of: Exclusive use of a private Cabana on the pool deck 3 mini tasting menus of 11 dishes inspired by the sky, ocean, and land (3 appetizers, 6 mains, 2 desserts) Choice of 1 cocktail or mocktail per person Inclusive of a 10% service charge
Ticketing	https://www.galaxymacau.com/WOcvYHhsOw/

(From left) Chef Masaaki Miyakawa, Chef Jingye Xu, and Chef Aditya Muskita will be leading the “Ocean” category in Galaxy Macau Presents Tatler Off Menu.

(From left) Chef Chek Keong Chan, Chef Varun Totlani, and Chef Min-Chul Kang will be leading the “Sky” category of Galaxy Macau Presents Tatler Off Menu.

(From left) Chef Hiroyasu Kawate, Chef Vicky Cheng, and Chef Marino D’Antonio will be leading the “Land” category of Galaxy Macau Presents Tatler Off Menu.

(From left) Chef Lok Hin Yam and Chef Fabrizio Fiorani will be leading the pastry showcase of Galaxy Macau Presents Tatler Off Menu.

(From left) Mixologists Billy Choi and Ajit Gurung will be helming the cocktail counter of Galaxy Macau Presents Tatler Off Menu.

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

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

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

Malaysia Adopts Landmark Kuala Lumpur Declaration On Climate Resilience As IGEM 2025 Opens, Targeting RM5.5 Billion In Green Investment

MIL OSI

October 16, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2025 – Organised by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES) and co-organised by the Malaysian Green Technology and Climate Change Corporation (MGTC), the International Greentech & Eco Products Exhibition and Conference Malaysia (IGEM) 2025 opened its doors today at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, marking the start of three days dedicated to innovation, collaboration, and investment opportunities for the region’s green economy.

As the longest-running green technology exhibition in the region, IGEM 2025 has set ambitious targets of RM5.5 billion in business leads, 50,000 visitations, 500 exhibition booths, and participation from 50 countries.

The opening day was officiated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony graced by Dato’ Sri Huang Tiong Sii, Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability (NRES). He underscored Malaysia’s leadership role as ASEAN Chair 2025. “Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship is about turning inclusivity and sustainability into shared progress. IGEM reflects this vision by convening regional leaders, innovators, and communities to work together on practical solutions for the climate transition. It demonstrates that collaboration is the foundation of a just and resilient future for ASEAN.”

IGEM 2025 is not just a showcase but a marketplace where ideas become investments and partnerships. With MoUs signed, new collaborations announced, and platforms such as the Malaysia Carbon Market Forum underway, IGEM is demonstrating its ability to convert ambition into real opportunities that strengthen ASEAN’s green economy.

Over the next two days, IGEM 2025 will feature a series of flagship programmes highlighting

ASEAN’s leadership in climate action and green innovation:

ASEAN Circular Economy Forum (ACEF): Bringing together government officials and stakeholders to advance a circular economy across the region.
3rd Energy Efficiency Forum: Highlighting energy efficiency as a key driver of Malaysia’s low-carbon future, with discussions on concrete steps to strengthen national targets.
Malaysia–Japan Environment Week: Enhancing bilateral cooperation on decarbonisation and resilience, with a focus on innovation in green business.
3^rd Malaysia Carbon Market Forum: Aims to facilitate the development of a vibrant and sustainable carbon market ecosystem through knowledge sharing
Seminar Ozone to Climate: Spotlight on Malaysia’s journey celebrating HPMP success, advancing refrigerant management, and showcasing innovation in the foam industry.

Business Matching sessions organised by MIDA and MATRADE will continue throughout IGEM 2025, driving investment opportunities and fostering cross-border deals. With 500 exhibitors participating this year, IGEM has brought together some of the biggest names in green technology. Key exhibitors leading this year’s initiatives include:

Petronas – Showcasing its commitment to net-zero carbon emissions through hydrogen energy and carbon capture technologies.
Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB) – Presenting large-scale solar initiatives and innovative grid technologies to enhance energy efficiency.
OCBC Bank – Highlighting green financing solutions that support the global transition toward a low-carbon economy.
Xiamen Solar First Energy Technology – A global leader in solar energy solutions, showcasing a wide array of offerings and services for achieving renewable energy goals.

IGEM 2025 has set the stage for an impactful week of green innovation and business collaboration. As ASEAN Chair 2025, Malaysia is reinforcing its leadership in driving the region’s net-zero transition, ensuring that inclusivity and sustainability remain at the heart of growth.

Be part of the Race Towards Net Zero. Register for free as a trade or public visitor at https://register.igem.my. For event highlights and updates, visit www.igem.my.

Hashtag: #NRES

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

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

TourBox Revolutionizes Lightroom Classic Workflow with Dynamic Panel for True Panel-Free Editing

MIL OSI

October 16, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

GUANGDONG, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2025 – For years, Lightroom Classic users have faced limited workspace, with fixed Side Panels and the Filmstrip consuming valuable screen space and forcing constant toggling during color and tonal corrections. TourBox‘s new Dynamic Panel redefines this experience, enabling true full-screen editing and freeing creatives from Lightroom’s static interface.

Dynamic Panel detaches Lightroom’s controls from the default panels, allowing adjustments anywhere on-screen or on a secondary monitor, while keeping the image fully visible. Key features include:

Unobstructed Full-Screen Editing – Floating controls provide distraction-free workspace for precise color and tonal adjustments.
Flexible Placement & Multi-Screen Support – Panels can be positioned freely; dual-monitor setups allow one screen for the image and another for controls.
Pre-Configured Familiar Controls – All essential Lightroom sliders are ready to use with no setup required.
Customizable Workflows – Users can add, remove, reorder, or group controls to suit personal editing styles.
Smart Color Mixer – Integrated with TourBox hardware for intuitive H/S/L adjustments via tactile knobs, ideal for portrait retouching.
1:1 Native Mirroring – Adjustments in Dynamic Panel reflect real-time values in Lightroom Classic, ensuring precise edits.
Swing Micro-Adjustments – Physical dials enable fine-tuning beyond the precision of mouse dragging.
Intelligent Workspace Recognition – Panel adapts automatically to the active tool, such as Masking or Removal.

By combining a distraction-free interface with the tactile precision of TourBox hardware, Dynamic Panel enhances efficiency and visual accuracy, allowing photographers and editors to focus fully on color and tonal correction.

Availability: Included in the latest TourBox Console software for Lightroom Classic; multilingual support includes English, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Japanese, Korean, and Chinese.

Product Link: https://bit.ly/43jRSAO
TourBox Amazon：https://www.amazon.de/dp/B0DSVZQ2NB?th=1

Hashtag: #TourBox

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

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

The Aspen Tree The Foresitas Unveils World-Class All-in-One Senior Living Community with Residences, Wellness Clubhouse, and Health & Brain Center

MIL OSI

October 16, 2025

Source: Media Outreach

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2025 – The Aspen Tree The Forestias has officially launched as a holistic residential community under “Aging-in-Place” concept, blending nature-inspired living with international-standard residences and wellness services for lifelong well-being.

Located within The Forestias on Bangna–Trad Road in Thailand, 157-acre mixed-use development dedicates over half its area to lush green space. The Aspen Tree spans 9 acres with 290 residences surrounded by nature, each supported by professional care services to ensure safety, comfort, and happiness at every stage of life.

Designed as a “Holistic Health Care Community for Lifelong Well-Being,” The Aspen Tree integrates nature, modern living, and personalized healthcare to enhance both physical and emotional quality of life. The community enables seniors to live independently while enjoying recreation, social connection, and peace of mind in a secure, nurturing environment.

Its healthcare philosophy centers on preventive care and brain health, in collaboration with Baycrest Global Solutions (Canada), a world leader in senior wellness and brain health with more than 105 years of expertise. This partnership brings international healthcare standards and evidence-based practices to Thailand’s senior living sector.

The Aspen Tree features three core components:

Residences – Built with Aging-in-Place and Universal Design principles, offering step-free layouts, non-slip flooring, motion sensors, and 24-hour emergency systems.
Wellness Clubhouse – A 6,000 sq.m. lifestyle and wellness hub with swimming pools, fitness and yoga studios, golf simulator, library, café, spa, craft studio, and therapeutic gardens.
Health & Brain Center (HBC) – A specialized medical and rehabilitation center managed by Baycrest, providing preventive and restorative care through Geriatric Medicine, Rehabilitation, Memory and Brain Clinics, Day Care, and Long-Term Care.

Residents are supported by multidisciplinary care teams—including physicians, therapists, nutritionists, and Care Angels—who deliver personalized health programs and 24-hour emergency assistance. Additional services include weekly housekeeping and daily breakfast at the GoodWell Restaurant.

Beyond healthcare, The Aspen Tree nurtures a meaningful lifestyle rooted in nature, with shared spaces for art, relaxation, and social engagement. Inspired by flowers and butterflies symbols of renewal and vitality, the community reflects a place where residents continue to thrive.

Certified by American Accreditation Commission International (AACI) and aligned with WELL Building Standard, The Aspen Tree The Forestias embodies sustainability, safety, and holistic well-being—setting a new benchmark for senior living in Thailand.

For more information, visit https://mqdc.com/aspentree.

Hashtag: #TheAspenTree

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

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

NZ-AU: Innovation Beverage Group Enters into Definitive Merger Agreement with BlockFuel Energy, Inc.

MIL OSI

October 16, 2025

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-NZ-AU)

Transaction expected to close in fourth quarter with combined company to begin trading on the Nasdaq under the ticker “FUEL”

Vertically Integrated business model combines state-of-the-art power generation with oil & gas production to power Bitcoin mining operations

Post-Transaction combined entity expected to have an equity valuation range between US$220M-$343M

SYDNEY, Oct. 15, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Innovation Beverage Group Ltd (“IBG” or the “Company”) (Nasdaq: IBG), an innovative developer, manufacturer, and marketer of a growing beverage portfolio of 60 formulations across 13 alcoholic and non-alcoholic brands, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement for a reverse triangular merger transaction with BlockFuel Energy Inc., a Texas corporation (“BlockFuel” or “BFE”) engaged in oil and gas exploration and state-of-the-art power generation to support Bitcoin mining operations and high-performance data centers across North America. IBG and BFE expect to close the transaction in the fourth quarter of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions and will trade on the Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “FUEL”.

Under the terms of the definitive agreement, IBG will merge with BlockFuel through a reverse triangular merger, with a newly formed subsidiary of IBG formed for the transaction merging with and into BFE, with BFE as the surviving entity and becoming a wholly owned subsidiary. When the transaction closes, the owners of BFE are expected to own ordinary shares in IBG representing 90% of the total number of issued and outstanding ordinary shares of IBG on a post-transaction basis, subject to certain equitable adjustments for interim financings. As previously announced, Marshall & Stevens Transaction Advisory Services conducted an independent fairness analysis which concluded that the post-transaction combined company resulting from the merger of IBG and BFE is expected to have an equity valuation range between US$220 million to US$343 million. Shareholders of IBG will own 10% of the combined entity upon closing, equaling an implied post-transaction equity value for IBG in the range of US$22 million to US$34.3 million, compared to a pre-transaction valuation of US$2.9 million to US$6.3 million.

Upon closing of the agreed transaction, Daniel Lanskey, currently President and CEO of BlockFuel and a Director of IBG, will be appointed Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of the new combined entity. Sahil Beri, currently Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of IBG, will resign from both positions and will be appointed as President of a newly formed beverage subsidiary.

Sahil Beri, Chief Executive Officer of IBG commented, “The agreement for our reverse merger transaction with BlockFuel Energy marks a pivotal milestone in the IBG story as we work to maximize shareholder value. BlockFuel is uniquely positioned at the forefront of energy innovation and digital asset mining, and we are pleased to provide a public vehicle for BFE to introduce itself to the capital markets. We are separately optimistic about what the future holds for the IBG business as a subsidiary of BlockFuel as we continue to build and grow our award-winning alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage portfolio.”

Daniel Lanskey, Executive Chairman of BlockFuel added, “With today’s announcement finalizing BlockFuel’s entry into the U.S. capital markets via our reverse merger with IBG, we are well placed to capitalize on significant opportunities across the digital asset, energy capture and oil & gas sectors. Integrating IBG’s public market presence with our advanced energy harnessing and Bitcoin mining technologies creates a powerful foundation for long-term value creation. This transaction strengthens our ability to scale, expand market reach, and build a sustainable growth trajectory at the intersection of cleaner energy and blockchain infrastructure.”

If you have a question or would like to schedule a meeting with IBG or BFE management, please contact BFE@KCSA.com.

About Innovation Beverage Group
Innovation Beverage Group is a developer, manufacturer, marketer, exporter, and retailer of a growing beverage portfolio of 60 formulations across 13 alcoholic and non-alcoholic brands for which it owns exclusive manufacturing rights. Focused on premium and super premium brands and market categories where it can disrupt age old brands, IBG’s brands include Australian Bitters, BITTERTALES, Drummerboy Spirits, Twisted Shaker, and more. IBG’s most successful brand to date is Australian Bitters, which is a well-established and favored bitters brand in Australia. Established in 2018, IBG’s headquarters, manufacturing and flavor innovation center are located in Sydney, Australia with a U.S. sales office located in California. For more information visit: https://www.innovationbev.com/

About BlockFuel Energy
BlockFuel Energy is involved in the acquisition, exploration and development of proven oil fields onshore in North America. By turning natural gas at the source, including stranded and flared gas, into a potent resource for the digital era, BlockFuel Energy intends to redefine the energy industry. BlockFuel Energy combines state-of-the-art power generation with oil and gas exploration to power bitcoin mining operations and high-performance data centers. Our vertically integrated concept allows us to use co-location and modular power generation techniques to optimize efficiency and investment returns. Our cutting-edge solutions for energy optimization and extraction will enable us to transform underdeveloped resources into high-margin, scalable, and sustainable revenue streams. For more information visit: https://blockfuelenergy.com/

Forward Looking Statement
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” and “forward-looking information.” These statements include, but are not limited to, statements about the final terms of the potential merger transaction, the structure of such transaction, benefits of the contemplated transaction between IBG and BlockFuel Energy, expected closing conditions and the parties’ ability to complete the transaction, should definitive documentation be reached as well as other statements that are not historical facts. This information and these statements, which can be identified by the fact that they do not relate strictly to historical or current facts, are made as of the date of this press release or as of the date of the effective date of information described in this press release, as applicable.

The forward-looking statements herein relate to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as “expects,” “anticipates,” “plans,” “projects,” “estimates,” “envisages,” “assumes,” “intends,” “strategy,” “goals,” “objectives” or variations thereof or stating that certain action events or results “may,” “can,” “could,” “would,” “might,” or “will” be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) and include, without limitation, statements with respect to projected financial targets that the Company is looking to achieve.

All forward-looking statements are based on current beliefs as well as various assumptions made by and information currently available to the Company’s management team. By their very nature, forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties, both general and specific, and risks exist that estimates, forecasts, projections, and other forward-looking statements will not be achieved or that assumptions do not reflect future experience. Such factors include, among others, (1) delays in finalizing definitive documentation for the contemplated transaction, (2) the risk that definitive documentation will reflect different terms than the non-binding terms described herein, (3) the risk of delays in consummating the contemplated transaction, including as a result of required regulatory and stockholder approvals, which may not be obtained on the expected timeline, or at all, (4) the risk of any event, change or other circumstance that could cause the parties to terminate the transaction prior to closing , (5) disruption to the parties’ businesses as a result of the announcement and pendency of the transaction, including potential distraction of management from current plans and operations of IBG or BlockFuel Energy and the ability of IBG and BlockFuel Energy to retain and hire key personnel, (6) reputational risk and the reaction of each company’s customers, suppliers, employees or other business partners to the transaction, (7) the possibility that the transaction may be more expensive to complete than anticipated, including as a result of unexpected factors or events, (8) the outcome of any legal or regulatory proceedings that may be instituted against IBG or BlockFuel Energy related to the transaction or merger agreement, should definitive documentation be executed, (9) the risks associated with third party contracts containing consent and/or other provisions that may be triggered by the contemplated transaction, (10) legislative, regulatory, political, market, economic and other conditions, developments and uncertainties affecting IBG’s or BlockFuel Energy’s businesses; (11) the evolving legal, regulatory and tax regimes under which IBG or BlockFuel Energy operate; (12) any restrictions during the pendency of the contemplated transaction that may impact the parties’ ability to pursue certain business opportunities or strategic transactions; and (13) unpredictability and severity of catastrophic events, including, but not limited to, extreme weather, natural disasters, acts of terrorism or outbreak of war or hostilities. We caution any person reviewing this press release not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements as several important factors could cause the actual outcomes to differ materially from the beliefs, plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates, assumptions, and intentions expressed in such forward-looking statements. These risk factors may be generally stated as the risk that the assumptions and estimates expressed above do not occur.

The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, whether written or oral, that may be made from time to time by Company or on behalf of the Company except as may be required by law.

Contact:
Innovation Beverage Group Limited
Sahil Beri
CEO
sahil@innovationbev.com
www.innovationbev.com

BlockFuelEnergy Inc.
Daniel Lanskey
President and CEO
dan.lanskey@blockfuelenergy.com
www.blockfuelenergy.com

Investor Relations:
KCSA Strategic Communications
Phil Carlson, Managing Director
BFE@KCSA.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/d6543343-3458-4a0b-84b2-aa163fe3f272

– Published by The MIL Network

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