PM Edition: Top 10 Business Articles on LiveNews.co.nz for October 26, 2026 – Full Text

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 October 2026 – Cushman & Wakefield, a leading global real estate services firm, has again been recognized for its leading professional service excellence at the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Awards in Hong Kong. The firm was awarded Winner in both the “Best Deal of the Year” and “Valuation Team of the Year” categories at the 2026 awards ceremony. This marks the firm’s second double-win achievement since 2024, and represents the fifth “Best Deal” award in nine years and the fourth “Valuation Team” award in six years. These recognitions highlight Cushman & Wakefield’s unwavering market leadership and commitment to professional service excellence.

Winner — Best Deal of the Year

Cushman & Wakefield’s Capital Markets team has been recognized for delivering Hong Kong’s largest office asset transaction since 2021. Facilitating Alibaba Group and Ant Group’s acquisition of their new regional headquarters premises at One Causeway Bay, this landmark HK$7.2 billion deal marks a significant milestone for the city’s commercial real estate market and underscores Hong Kong’s enduring appeal to global technology companies seeking regional headquarters opportunities. It highlights Cushman & Wakefield’s pivotal role as a key link between enterprises of different regions, further solidifying its leading position in complex cross-border transactions. This iconic deal has been widely reported and headlined by more than 100 media outlets globally.

Francis Li, International Director, Vice President and Head of Capital Markets, Greater China, Cushman & Wakefield, said, “This award reflects our team’s market expertise, integrity, and commitment to client outcomes, while adhering to the stringent RICS standards. It also reflects our deep market relationships and dedication to clients, the industry, and contributing to Hong Kong’s continued growth.”

Winner — Valuation Team of the Year

Committed to building a future-ready Hong Kong defined by sustainability, innovation, and lasting value, Cushman & Wakefield’s Valuation & Advisory Services team draws on more than 30 years of hands-on experience across Greater China. It partners with the Hong Kong government and private-sector visionaries to shape the infrastructure and public services that matter — spanning transport, utilities, healthcare facilities, and urban renewal. As a total solution hub, the team connects end-to-end expertise across valuation, advisory, ESG, financing and feasibility to turn ambition into action.

Andrew Chan, Managing Director, Head of Valuation & Advisory Services, Greater China, Cushman & Wakefield, said, “We are deeply honored be named Valuation Team of the Year at the RICS Hong Kong awards for the third consecutive year, marking our fourth “Valuation Team” award in six years. This accolade reflects the unwavering dedication, professionalism, and innovation of our valuation team. Serving major development initiatives, our team is proud to help shape Hong Kong’s future with our valuation expertise. Since 1993, we have continually evolved our capabilities — integrating ESG, sustainability, and emerging asset classes to deliver best-in-class solutions while nurturing the next generation of industry leaders.”

John Siu, Managing Director, Hong Kong, Cushman & Wakefield, added, “Congratulations to our outstanding teams for demonstrating our progressive spirit and client-first mindset once again. These prestigious accolades reinforce Cushman & Wakefield’s market leadership and brand strength. Moving forward, we will continue to elevate industry standards and deliver unparalleled value to our clients.”

Photos:
Winner – Best Deal of the Year: Hong Kong & China Capital Markets team
Winner – Valuation Team of the Year: Hong Kong Valuation & Advisory Services team

Please click HERE to download high-resolution photos.

http://www.cushmanwakefield.com.hk
http://www.linkedin.com/company/cushman-&-wakefield-greater-china

Hashtag: #CushmanWakefield

About Cushman & Wakefield

Cushman & Wakefield (NYSE: CWK) is a leading global commercial real estate services firm for property owners and occupiers with approximately 53,000 employees in nearly 350 offices and 60 countries. In Greater China, a network of 23 offices serves local markets across the region. In 2025, the firm reported revenue of $10.3 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).

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 25 October 2026 – The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) has announced the winning organisations, teams and individuals for the RICS Hong Kong Awards 2026.

These awards celebrate the most inspirational initiatives and developments in land, real estate, construction and infrastructure, recognising outstanding achievement, teamwork and corporate excellence. This year’s entrants have contributed to some of Hong Kong’s largest projects, including driving investment into the commercial sector, delivering essential infrastructure and leading sustainable practices.

Guest of Honour, Mr. TAI Sheung Shing, Victor, JP, Under Secretary for Housing, Housing Bureau, The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, kicked off the ceremony with a speech recognising chartered surveyors for their significant contributions to the built environment. Additionally, the event welcomed Mr. David Lam, JP, Under Secretary for Development, Development Bureau, The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, as a Presentation Guest at the Gala Dinner, to jointly witness this important occasion.

“These awards are about excellence. Excellence in our profession is about much more than a successful transaction, a well-delivered project or an impressive building. It is about the judgement behind a difficult decision. The integrity to give the right advice, even when it is not the easiest advice to give. And the commitment to leave a place, a business or a community better than we found it. ” said Ms. Ada Fung FRICS, Judging Chair of RICS Hong Kong Awards 2026. “For those of us working in Hong Kong, these qualities matter enormously. Our city never stands still, and neither can our profession. We must help clients navigate uncertainty, make better use of our built environment, and turn long-term ambitions into practical results.”

The RICS Annual Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to Mr. Philip Lo FRICS, a Steward of the Hong Kong Jockey Club. Mr. Lo is a former Chairman of Rider Levett Bucknall China and Hong Kong. He is a fellow of RICS and served on the RICS UK Management Board from 2011 to 2016, alongside his extensive leadership roles within RICS Hong Kong. He remains deeply committed to public service, currently holding key roles with the Hong Kong Housing Authority and the Hong Kong Housing Society, as well serving as an Adjunct Professor at The University of Hong Kong.

“Our profession is unique. We may not always have our names on the buildings, but we know every building carries our fingerprints. More importantly, through the built environment, we have the opportunity not only to create buildings and infrastructure, but also to shape communities, improve lives and contribute to the long-term development of society. That sense of purpose has always been one of the most rewarding aspects of my career.” said Mr. Philip Lo FRICS.

Results of RICS Hong Kong Awards 2026:

Project award categories
1. Commercial Property Project of the Year

• Jones Lang LaSalle Management Services Limited – The Bay Hub

2. Corporate Social Responsibility Project of the Year

• Hong Kong Housing Authority – Diamond Hill Water Feature Park

Team award categories
3. Agency Team of the Year

• JLL – Office Leasing Advisory Team

4. Construction Project Management Team of the Year

• Architectural Services Department & China State Construction Engineering (Hong Kong) Limited – Design and Construction of Chinese Medicine Hospital and Government Chinese Medicines Testing Institute in Hong Kong

5. Facilities Management Team of the Year

• Hang Seng Bank Limited & JLL
• Swire Properties Management Limited – Citygate – Driving Excellence in Facilities Management through Exemplary Sustainability Strategy

6. Property Management Team of the Year

• Nan Fung Property Management – AIRSIDE

7. Quantity Surveying Team of the Year

• Housing Department, HKSAR (Quantity Surveying Section) – SmartCOST+ (Construction Cost Data Management Platform)

8. Refurbishment / Revitalisation Team of the Year

• Architectural Services Department & Yau Lee Construction Company Limited – The Light Public Housing at Vacant School Premises (St. Joseph / Holm Glad / Ma Kam Chan)

9. Research Team of the Year

• Rider Levett Bucknall + Arup – Whole Life Carbon Assessment – Embodied Carbon Intensity Framework in Hong Kong and Mainland China

10. Valuation Team of the Year

• Cushman & Wakefield – Masterminds Behind Development: Shaping Hong Kong’s Future With Valuation Expertise

Special category awards

11. Best Deal of the Year

• Alibaba Group Holding Limited, Cushman & Wakefield – Anchoring the Global Digital Hub: Alibaba & Ant Group’s Overseas Headquarters at One Causeway Bay, facilitated by Cushman & Wakefield
• Jones Lang LaSalle Limited – JLL Capital Markets: Brookfield Asset Management and Uni-China Group Strategic Acquisition of Tsing Yi Industrial Site

12. Environmental Impact Award

• Architectural Services Department – Advancing Net Zero – Toilet Blocks at Pet Garden of Central and Western District Promenade
• Savills Property Management Limited – Kingston International Centre

13. Proptech Innovation of the Year

• Savills Property Management Limited – Smart Control Hub

Individual awards

14. Emerging Achiever of the Year

• Jason Leung MRICS, Assistant Research Director, Head of Land and Housing Research, Our Hong Kong Foundation

15. Lee Ming Kiu, Owen MRICS, Resident Engineer, AECOM

• Woman of the Built Environment Award
• Kathy Lee, Head of Research and Retail Consultancy, Colliers

The full RICS Hong Kong Awards Winners list is available at: https://www.rics.org/training-events/rics-awards/hong-kong-awards

High resolution photos are available at: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1c2FnfB9S-IXgcfj8SGXAFe6RP16oQFlA?usp=sharing

Notes for editors:

RICS Hong Kong Awards 2026 is sponsored by:

• Headline Sponsor: Hongkong Land Limited
• Premium Sponsor: Swire Properties Limited
• Cocktail Partner: Colliers
• Agency Partner: CBRE Advisory Hong Kong Limited
• Silver Sponsors: Link Asset Management; MOORE
• Supported by: Construction Industry Council

Hashtag: #RICS

About RICS Hong Kong Awards

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 October 2026 – Makers of the capacitors, magnets and battery materials inside AI servers and electric vehicles (EVs) are lining up to invest in Thailand. Since 2023, they have filed 35 advanced materials projects worth about $690 million (23.5 billion baht) with the Thailand Board of Investment (BOI), the government’s investment promotion agency. Surging demand for AI, EVs, and clean energy is pushing global suppliers to build upstream capacity in the country.

The projects, filed through the first half of 2026, cover multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs), thermal graphite films, high-performance ceramics, battery and fuel-cell materials, neodymium magnets, glass and quartz fabrics for printed circuit boards, and nanomaterials for precision manufacturing. Together they mark a shift for one of Southeast Asia’s largest economies from downstream assembly toward the high-value materials on which future industries are built.

In AI computing and clean energy, lighter, more heat-resistant and more conductive materials determine how well devices perform. MLCCs are essential components in products from smartphones to AI servers, and a single high-end server can use up to 30,000 of them.

“The world is moving toward products that are smaller and lighter, yet stronger and more efficient,” said Mr. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary General of the Thailand Board of Investment. “Producing advanced materials in Thailand is key to building sustainable industrial capacity, reducing reliance on imports, and opening the door for Thai companies to join higher-value supply chains.”

Thailand is already a production base for leading component makers, including Japan’s Murata Electronics, which holds more than 35 percent of the global MLCC market, and Kyocera AVX Components, the world’s top tantalum capacitor maker. Among the new projects, Taiwan’s Fultech Fiber Glass makes glass fabric for printed circuit boards, including high-performance grades for AI servers. Jones Tech produces synthetic and natural graphite films that carry heat away from electronic devices.

Beyond electronics, the projects strengthen supply chains for electric vehicles, batteries, and clean energy, from BGN Thai’s coated foils for lithium-ion batteries and Phinis Well’s neodymium magnets for EV motors to Xinyuan Graphite’s bipolar plates for hydrogen fuel cells.

CoorsTek Advanced Materials, a subsidiary of US-based CoorsTek — a global leader in engineered ceramics for the semiconductor and aerospace industries — has invested in producing ceramics for automotive pressure sensors and silicon nitride balls for hybrid bearings in EVs and wind turbines. Golden Egret Cemented Carbide is making tungsten carbide powders for precision cutting tools, reinforcing Thailand’s base for high-precision manufacturing.

“The advanced materials industry taking root in Thailand today is the foundation of tomorrow’s supply chains in electronics, EVs, batteries, and clean energy,” Mr. Narit said. “The BOI will keep building this investment base, strengthening upstream materials and components, and supporting R&D, technology, and workforce development, to move Thailand from downstream to upstream production and make it the region’s advanced materials hub.”

Note: USD conversions are based on the Bank of Thailand’s average selling rate of approximately 33.76 baht per USD.

https://www.boi.go.th/en/index/

Hashtag: #Thailandboardofinvestment #BOI #FDI #Investment

Thailand Board of Investment (BOI)

Source: Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi

• New report shows Councils lose up to $5.2 billion in revenue by 2034

The Government’s rates capping proposals will see councils lose up to $5.2 billion in revenue by 2034 according to a new report released in Christchurch today by the union for local Government, the PSA.

As a consequence of this shortfall, local communities around New Zealand can expect to see increasing privatisation of important services like libraries and pools being sold off to the highest bidder.

“The PSA is calling on the Minister for Local Government Simon Watts to guarantee that no libraries, pools or other community facilities will be closed as a result of rates capping. The reality is he can’t given this guarantee because this is exactly what will happen, Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi National Secretary, Fleur Fitzsimons, said.

“Rates capping is bad policy and creates a false economy that do not meet the needs of local communities and businesses who will be left to bear the very real costs.”

The report – Who Pays for Rates Caps? Shifting costs to communities and future generations uses economic modelling and international evidence on rates caps to demonstrate how they will impact local communities and create huge financial pressure for local government.

Modelling in the report shows the economic impact of rates capping for councils will be a loss of revenue of between $1.8 billion and $5.2 billion over the current Long-Term Plan period (to 2034), depending on how quickly they move to comply with the new rules.

“The international evidence shows that under rates capping, councils take on more debt, introduce and increase service charges and defer essential infrastructure maintenance. Smaller and rural councils are the worst affected.

“Rates caps don’t help with cost of living. Instead, the cuts to council revenue will saddle ratepayers with increased user charges, reduced services, more privatisation, deteriorating infrastructure and massive council borrowing costs,” Fitzsimons said.

“Council workers will pay through lower wages and job insecurity. Future generations will pay through lost libraries and pools, deferred maintenance, reduced resilience to climate change and increased debt.

“Rates caps are also an attack on local democracy. They constrain the choices councils can make for their communities. They also undermine councils’ ability to meet their obligations under Te Tiriti o Waitangi,

“The next Government needs to cancel plans for rates capping and commit to developing sustainable funding arrangements for local government through establishing a Royal Commission to make recommendations on the role and functions of local government and how they should be funded,” Fitzsimons said.

Read the full report here: https://content.app-us1.com/2g9OXD/2026/10/14/71a3b84e-6786-422f-97de-04d32607b590.pdf

Launch event details

Media are welcome to attend an in-person launch event at 5:00pm on Thursday, 22 October (tonight) at 1st Floor, Iwikau 93 Cambridge Terrace, Christchurch Central.

Launch event speaker: Campbell Barry

The PSA is delighted to welcome Campbell Barry as a speaker at the event.

Campbell has more than 15 years’ experience in local government, including six years as Mayor of Lower Hutt and as Vice President of Local Government New Zealand (LGNZ).

As LGNZ Vice President, Campbell worked with councils throughout New Zealand on the issues shaping the sector, including local government funding, rates pressures, infrastructure investment, reform and the relationship with central government. He brings both a national perspective and firsthand experience of the realities councils face when trying to balance rising costs, ageing infrastructure and community expectations.

Campbell is now Head of Local Government and Partnerships at Agite, where he works with councils and other organisations on governance, strategy, reform and stakeholder engagement.

Notes: How the impact on councils was calculated

Before Parliament rose for the election, the coalition Government introduced a bill to cap rate increases. The Bill passed its first reading with support from the coalition Government, and Labour.

The Government’s Local Government (Rates Capping) Amendment Bill would create a range for annual property rates increases that councils must abide by. The initial range is set at 2%-4%, reviewable every six years. Exemptions are allowed in extreme cases.

Councils are encouraged to meet this target range from 1 July 2027 and, if the legislation passes, will be required to do so from 1 July 2029. Current Long-Term Plans run until 2034.

Modelling approach

Using data from the Long-Term Plans of the 25 largest councils by population with current Long-Term Plans extending to 2034, we calculated the effects of a 4% rates cap on those councils.

These 25 councils represent 80% of New Zealand’s population. We compared projected rates increases and revenue with two alternative scenarios where the councils replace any planned rates increases of greater than 4% with increases of exactly 4%, either from 1 July 2027 or from 1 July 2029.

Most councils’ rates increase projections reduce over time, from an average of over 7% in 2027/28 to 4.0% in 2033/34. This, and compounding effects, means that the year councils begin to comply with the rates cap has a significant impact on how much the cap affects the councils’ revenue.

2027 scenario

Under the 2027 scenario, over the seven years to 2034, the councils would bring in $4.2 billion less rates revenue than currently planned. Extending this to the councils not analysed, we estimate all councils would lose a combined $5.2 billion in revenue over the seven-year period.

2029 scenario

Under the 2029 scenario, over the five years to 2034, the councils would bring in $1.4 billion less rates revenue than currently planned. Extending this to the councils not analysed, we estimate all councils would lose a combined $1.8 billion in revenue over the five-year period.

The Public Service Association Te Pūkenga Here Tikanga Mahi is Aotearoa New Zealand’s largest trade union, representing and supporting more than 95,000 workers across central government, state-owned enterprises, local councils, health boards and community groups.

Source: Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono

22 October 2026

A new survey conducted by the Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono in September shows perceptions of China have shifted since the Foundation’s Perceptions of Asia 2026 survey, released in June 2026, when New Zealanders were more likely to see China as a friend than a threat.

In the latest poll, 36 percent of New Zealanders viewed China as a threat, associating it with caution or suspicion, compared with 23 percent who viewed it as a friend, seeing it as safe and trustworthy.

The findings follow China’s July ballistic missile test in the Pacific Ocean, which 50 percent of New Zealanders say they are ‘very’ or ‘extremely concerned’ about.

At the same time, New Zealanders continue to recognise China’s importance. Sixty percent say China is important to New Zealand’s future.

The poll also took in views of the United States. In it, 49 percent of New Zealanders say the United States is important to New Zealand’s future, and 46 percent rate it as an important or very important defence and security partner, compared with 27 percent for China.

Asia New Zealand Foundation Chief Executive, Suzannah Jessep, says the findings reveal an increasingly complex picture of how New Zealanders view major powers.

“There is clearly a growing sense among New Zealanders of discomfort with major powers, especially when their actions are perceived as threatening, rule-breaking, or harmful to New Zealand’s interests.

“China is viewed with considerable caution, but New Zealanders also recognise its significance to our future. The United States remains important, particularly for security and defence, while also attracting high levels of public distrust.”

More than half of New Zealanders express low trust in the United States to act responsibly in the world, including 30 percent who report very low trust, while just 18 percent express high trust. By comparison, Australia, the United Kingdom and Japan attract substantially higher levels of trust. Seventy-eight percent express high trust in Australia, 60 percent in the UK and 59 percent in Japan.

Asia New Zealand Foundation Director of Research and Engagement, Dr Julia Macdonald, says the findings show New Zealanders are taking a more nuanced view of the countries shaping the international environment.

“What is striking is that concern or distrust does not necessarily mean New Zealanders see a country as unimportant or that we should disengage. People are distinguishing between the different roles these major powers play – from future prosperity to defence and security – and what those relationships mean for New Zealand.”

The poll also shows wider global developments are weighing heavily on New Zealanders.

Sixty-two percent are ‘very’ or ‘extremely concerned’ about the US-Israel war with Iran, while 57 percent are highly concerned about the rapid development of AI and its potential impact.

View the full results.

About the Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono

Established in 1994, the Asia New Zealand Foundation Te Whītau Tūhono is a leading provider of Asia insights and experiences in New Zealand. Its mission is to equip New Zealanders to excel in Asia by providing research, insights, and targeted opportunities to grow their knowledge, connections and experiences across the region. The Foundation’s activities cover more than 20 countries in Asia and are delivered through eight core programmes: arts, business, entrepreneurship, leadership, media, research, Track II diplomacy, and sports.

About the poll

The September 2026 mini poll was carried out by Research New Zealand and completed with a nationally representative sample of New Zealanders aged 18 years and over. A total of 1,056 people were surveyed between 25 and 28 September 2026. The sample is representative of the New Zealand adult population in terms of age, gender, ethnicity and geographic region.

Results have been weighted by age and gender based on the most up-to-date demographic information from Stats NZ. Results based on the total sample are subject to a margin of error of plus or minus 3.2 percentage points at the 95 percent confidence level.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 October 2026 – Clera Cera, a new science-led dermatological skincare brand made for Asian skin and designed for everyday use, launches today at Guardian and Mannings. Co-developed with an expert team from Singapore’s National Skin Centre, a member of NHG Health, Clera Cera brings dermatologist-developed skin barrier care into everyday retail.

Heat, humidity and pollution can take a toll on Asian skin, and everyday habits such as frequent cleansing and use of harsh products strain the skin barrier. Research¹ also suggests that Asian skin has a thinner outer layer, which makes the barrier more vulnerable to irritants. With about one in three people in Asia reported to have sensitive skin², the need for skincare designed for these realities is growing.

The launch of Clera Cera comes amid growing consumer demand across Asia for skincare that soothes sensitive skin, supports daily preventive care and is both science-backed and accessible. Clera Cera’s mission is simple: to make effective, dermatologist-developed skincare designed for Asian skin part of everyone’s daily routine.

“Clera Cera marks a new chapter for Guardian and Mannings. We are going beyond selling health and wellness products to creating them, with the clinical expertise of NHG Health’s National Skin Centre behind us. It takes dermatology beyond clinical walls to a shelf where customers already shop, at a price that fits an everyday routine. This is the one of the many ways we continue to democratise wellness and it’s what being our customers’ Trusted Wellness Advisor means,” said Curtis Liu, Chief Executive Officer, Health and Beauty, DFI Retail Group.

Clera Cera is the first initiative focused on dermatological skin care under the long-term partnership between DFI Retail Group and NHG Health announced in October 2025 to strengthen preventive care and widen access to everyday health and wellness. It is the first time a public healthcare cluster in Singapore has worked with a retailer to make safe and effective health solutions backed by clinical research even more accessible to the public in Singapore and across Asia.

“One of NHG Health’s mission is to enhance the health of the population we serve. Partnerships like this allow us to translate clinical knowledge and research into everyday health. What makes this collaboration with DFI Retail Group meaningful is that we are able to bring evidence-based care to people where they are, beyond the hospital and clinic. Skin health is only the starting point. The wider opportunity is in areas such as elderly nutrition and home care, which will be explored for our ageing population,” said Professor Benjamin Seet, Group Chairman Medical Board (Research), NHG Health.

A Science-led Skin Barrier Resilience System to Replenish, Repair and Relieve Asian Skin

Clera Cera was co-developed with a leading dermatology team at Singapore’s National Skin Centre, a member of NHG Health. Associate Professor Tey Hong Liang, who led the formulation of it with Ms. Winnie Choo, Principal Pharmacist, is ranked among the world’s top 2% of scientists by Stanford University and Elsevier. The team’s work spans more than 55 healthcare-related national and international awards, grants and fellowships for advancing skin health.

The core essence of Clera Cera’s formulation is a Skin Barrier Resilience System that combines two key components:

• Derma-Clera, powered by Cynanchum Atratum (Bai Wei) botanical extract, that helps soothe the skin;
• Five skin-identical ceramides that help replenish essential lipids within the skin barrier, supporting hydration, repair and strength.

Working like building blocks, they help reinforce the Asian skin’s natural barrier by supporting healthy barrier in three ways:

• Replenish: Restores skin hydration, with moisture-attracting ingredients such as saccharide isomerate
• Repair: Strengthens the skin barrier with five skin-identical ceramides
• Relieve​: Soothes the skin with Derma-Clera, ​powered by a Cynanchum Atratum (Bai Wei) extract.

“Exposure to pollution and a warm, humid climate, together with frequent cleansing and use of harsh products weaken the protective barrier of the Asian skin over time. In our clinics, we often see this in patients with sensitive skin. The barrier depends on natural lipids such as ceramides, and it is best supported by gentle, consistent care, using lightweight formulations that people find comfortable applying every day,”said Associate Professor Tey Hong Liang, Clinical Director of the Centre for MedTech and Innovations, NHG Health, and Senior Consultant Dermatologist, National Skin Centre.

Made for Asian skin with feedback from Asian consumers

Shaped by listening sessions and usage tests from more than 18,000 consumers across Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam, Clera Cera overcomes common frustrations such as use of artificial fragrances and having sticky textures. The affordable, clean formula is designed for sensitive skin in humid climates.

The nine-product range spans body, face, targeted serums, and sun care made for Asian skin. Clera Cera is available now in Singapore, exclusively at Guardian Health & Beauty stores and online, and selected NHG Health pharmacies. Rollout in Brunei, Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia, Macau and Vietnam will follow, reaching eight markets across Asia, at more than 1,500 Guardian and Mannings stores and online.

Body Care

The lineup features the Gentle Hydrating Cleanser alongside the Skin Relief Moisturising Lotion, both suitable for sensitive, eczema-prone skin and babies from three months old. Both are formulated with the ingredient, saccharide isomerate, which provides 24-hour hydration in the non-soap cleaner and 72-hour hydration in the lotion. In a home user trial involving 104 participants, 89% of panellists agree that the lotion soothes skin in just three minutes.

Face Care

Daily facial care includes the Micellar Water Gentle Makeup Remover, Hydrating Foaming Face Wash, and Barrier Hydrating Aqua Cream. Engineered to prevent clogged pores in humid climates, the line removes waterproof makeup with micellar water while the foaming wash and aqua cream containing the ingredient saccharide isomerate delivers up to 24 hours and 72 hours of skin-balancing moisture respectively.

Target Serums

Intensive treatment is delivered through the B3 TXA Brightening Dark Spot Serum and Retinol Age Defense Serum. These contain active ingredients that target specific skin concerns while supporting the skin barrier.

Suncare

Broad-spectrum protection features two mineral formulas: the Daily Defense Physical Sunscreen Serum SPF 50 PA+++ and the Tone Up Physical Sunscreen Serum SPF 50 PA+++. Powered by Nano Zinc Oxide, both sunscreens reflect UVA/UVB rays and block 95% of blue light, featuring 40-minute water resistance.

Hashtag: #cleracera #Guardian #Mannings #dermatologist #skincare

Clera Cera

Chef Vincent Liew of The Star Sydney Leads Students Through Modern Chinese Cuisine Programme as Partnership Enters Third Year

MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 October 2026 – Lee Kum Kee Sauce (“Lee Kum Kee”), the global leader in Asian sauces and condiments, concluded a master class at Le Cordon Bleu Australia’s Melbourne campus on 19 October, where Chef Vincent Liew, Executive Chef of The Star Sydney led students through a five-course tasting menus built entirely around oysters. Themed “The Culinary Art of Modern Asian Cuisine”, the session explored how traditional Chinese flavours and techniques can be reimagined through a contemporary lens.

Chef Vincent demonstrated how Lee Kum Kee’s signature sauces can be applied across a full fine-dining tasting menu, with oyster as the connecting ingredient in every course. From a delicate consommé to a caramelised dessert, the sauces bring a depth of umami that elevates every dish.

Chef Vincent Liew said, “I am incredibly proud to have been part of this collaboration and grateful for the opportunity to work with such dedicated and talented people. Together, we have shared knowledge, inspired future culinary talent and strengthened the connection between industry and education.”

A Growing Partnership

The Melbourne session was the third and final master class of 2026, completing a full year of programming under a Lee Kum Kee and Le Cordon Bleu Australia partnership. The collaboration launched in 2025 with two master classes themed “A Taste of Modern Chinese Cuisine”, introducing students to Sino-French fusion cooking and versatile applications of Lee Kum Kee sauces. Strong student and faculty feedback led the programmme to be expanded to three sessions in 2026 across Sydney and Melbourne campuses.

A signature highlight of the Sydney sessions was the Char Siu Pineapple Bun – a modern take on the classic Hong Kong street food, reimagined for a professional Western kitchen environment. Students learned how to use Lee Kum Kee’s Premium Oyster Sauce and Premium Soy Sauce to create a rich, glossy char siu filling, then pair it with the buttery, crisp-topped pineapple bun that’s beloved across Hong Kong and Southeast Asia. The result is a dish that bridges tradition and innovation – a familiar comfort food elevated with professional technique and quality ingredients.

“Working with industry leaders such as Lee Kum Kee enables us to connect classroom learning with contemporary industry practice,” said a spokesperson for Le Cordon Bleu Australia. “These master classes inspire students to expand their culinary repertoire, embrace innovation and build the confidence needed to thrive in professional kitchens around the world.”

“At Lee Kum Kee, we believe great food starts with great ingredients and even greater chefs,” said Gary Hui, Business Development Director – Oceania from Lee Kum Kee Sauce. “Our partnership with Le Cordon Bleu is about investing in the next generation and sharing the true versatility of Asian sauces with kitchens across Australia. We’re not just teaching techniques – we’re helping shape the future of dining.”

Lee Kum Kee and Le Cordon Bleu Australia plan to continue expanding the master class programme in 2027, with new themes and menu concepts in development.

Global Youth Culinary Immersion

The collaboration is part of Lee Kum Kee’s flagship Global Youth Culinary Immersion initiative, which reflects the company’s commitment to promoting Chinese culinary culture worldwide and supporting aspiring culinary talent. The initiative engaged with over 3,500 youthful culinary talents in 2025 across Australia, Bhutan, Canada, China, Malaysia, South Korea, Vietnam, the United Kingdom and United States.

Hashtag: #LeeKumKee

About Lee Kum Kee Sauce

Lee Kum Kee Sauce is the global gateway to Asian culinary culture, dedicated to promoting Chinese culinary culture worldwide. Since 1888, it has brought people together over joyful reunions, shared traditions and memorable meals. Beloved by consumers and chefs alike, Lee Kum Kee Sauce’s range of more than 300 sauces and condiments sparks creativity in kitchens everywhere, inspiring professional and home chefs to experiment, create and delight. Headquartered in Hong Kong, China and serving over 100 countries and regions, Lee Kum Kee Sauce’s rich heritage, unwavering commitment to quality, sustainable practices and “Constant Entrepreneurship” combine to enable superior experiences through Asian cuisine for people worldwide. For more information, please visit www.LKK.com.

Source: Fire and Emergency New Zealand

Public warned to expect service delays during upcoming strike

Fire and Emergency New Zealand is again calling on the New Zealand Professional Firefighters Union (NZPFU) to call off its twice-weekly strikes while its members are considering a settlement offer.

“There is no point for NZPFU’s leaders to put the public at risk while their members are going through a process of voting on a proposed settlement,” National Commander Megan Stiffler says.

The next strike is due to occur tomorrow Friday 23 October between midday and 1pm, with further strikes scheduled.

The public is being warned that response times will be delayed in strike impacted areas as volunteer crews will be responding from the next closest location, although all 111 calls will be received and responded to during the stop work period.

“We’ve consistently called on the NZPFU to call off these reckless strikes while both sides are engaged in talks. There is even less justification to continue striking while its members are considering an offer.”

A version of Fire and Emergency’s most recent offer was first tabled in December 2025, although NZPFU refused to put it to members, costing the average senior firefighter more than $2,600 in missed earnings.

The offer provides for two annual 2.2 percent salary increases, alongside new and increased allowances. When the new and increased allowances are included alongside salary and overtime increases, this will give an average increase in take-home pay of approximately 2.5 percent in the first year.

“This offer compares well to other public sector pay settlements, however, during the most recent bargaining exchange the NZPFU would not table a revised pay proposal or identify what pay outcome it would accept. That made it impossible for the parties to negotiate towards a different pay settlement.

“Every time Fire and Emergency has shifted its position to bring the parties together, the NZPFU has increased its claim. That has made reaching settlement impossible.

“We’ve participated in independent facilitation through the Employment Relations Authority, which recently asked both parties to put forward their best offer. Fire and Emergency agreed to do so, the NZPFU did not.

We also offered to discuss independent arbitration to bring the dispute to a conclusion, which the NZPFU declined.

“Fire and Emergency is focused on coming to a sustainable settlement so we can continue working to keep our communities safe,” Megan Stiffler says.

SHENZHEN, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 October 2026 – Leading global smart device brand OPPO today announced the global launch of its latest flagship smartphones, Find X10 and Find X10 Pro Max. Built to be a “Hasselblad True-to-Life Camera,” Find X10 Series brings major advances in camera hardware and computational photography to deliver a more true-to-life imaging experience. Beyond imaging, the series introduces refined designs, upgraded displays, larger batteries, flagship performance and the new ColorOS 17.

“Find X Series has always been driven by our commitment to push mobile imaging forward and help people effortlessly capture the beauty of life,” said Pete Lau, SVP and Chief Product Officer at OPPO. “With Find X10 Series, we are making one of our biggest leaps yet in mobile imaging. From an industry-first Triple 200MP Camera System on Find X10 Pro Max to the next-generation LUMO True Image Engine, Find X10 Series is built to reproduce the world as you see it and keep every shot true to the moment.”

Industry-First Triple 200MP Camera System

Find X10 Series introduces a new-generation camera system co-developed with Hasselblad. Find X10 features a Dual 200MP Camera System, while Find X10 Pro Max pushes further with a Triple 200MP Camera System, bringing 200MP resolution across all three rear cameras.

<figure data-width="50%" data-caption="Inside the Find X10 Pro Max Camera System” data-caption-display=”block” data-image-width=”0″ data-image-height=”0″ class=”c6″ readability=”1″>