MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2026 – House of Origin, the exclusive private Cantonese dining destination at Galaxy Macau, the world-class luxury integrated resort renowned for its award-winning hospitality and signature “World Class, Asian Heart” service philosophy, continues to captivate discerning gourmands with its exceptional culinary craftsmanship and elegant residential-style setting. Guided by its philosophy of “Refined Homeliness”, House of Origin presents thoughtfully curated dining experiences that reinterpret the rich heritage of Cantonese gastronomy through a contemporary lens.

This season, House of Origin joins forces with China’s iconic baijiu Moutai to present an exclusive “A Journey of Craft and Time – 15-Year Moutai Pairing Dinner presented by House of Origin Masters”, where exquisite aged liquors and masterfully crafted Cantonese delicacies come together in a remarkable celebration of time, terroir and craftsmanship. Complementing this exceptional offering, House of Origin will now cater to patrons with a newly introduced lunch service that unveils an array of new signature dishes, inviting guests to savour its refined Cantonese dining by day for convenience.

When Fine Aged Liquor Meets Vibrant Cantonese Fare

Presented by House of Origin and China’s premium Moutai, the exclusive “A Journey of Craft and Time – 15-Year Moutai Pairing Dinner presented by House of Origin Masters” brings together the artistry of Cantonese cuisine and the timeless character of one of China’s most revered spirits. Available at MOP2,888 per guest for just two evenings on 31 July and 1 August, with only two tables available per night, this intimate experience is designed for discerning guests seeking a truly unique culinary journey.

Curated by two-Michelin-starred Culinary Director Xu and brought to life by Resident Chef Lam, the special menu showcases traditional Cantonese craftsmanship elevated by rare premium ingredients. Each dish has been thoughtfully paired with three remarkable aged Moutai expressions, creating a harmonious dialogue between flavour, aroma and heritage.

The pairing experience features the benchmark 15-Year Aged Moutai, a rare 2011 Feitian Moutai that has matured gracefully in bottle for fifteen years, and an extraordinary 2010 Aged Moutai 15-Year, distinguished by its exceptional depth, richness and complexity. Together, these celebrated spirits offer guests a rare opportunity to appreciate the transformative beauty of time and maturation.

The dinner unfolds as an elegant expression of Cantonese culinary heritage, where tradition and innovation converge in a harmonious journey of flavour. From the nostalgic craftsmanship of the Golden Oyster Roll Wrapped in Caul Fat to the signature House of Origin Abalone infused with Moutai aroma, each course is thoughtfully designed to complement the character and complexity of the accompanying aged Moutai, creating a sensory voyage enriched by time.

The special menu features refined creations such as Wok-fried Conch Slices with Shrimp Paste, Braised Pomelo Pith with Crab Roe and Fish Intestine, Crispy Cinnamon-infused Beef Short Rib, Roasted Goose with Fermented Black Bean and Mint, and Wok-fried Wild Mushroom Medley. Together, the dishes reveal a sophisticated progression of flavours, from rich sauce aromas and deep umami notes to the pure elegance of seasonal ingredients.

Highlights include the Braised Pomelo Pith with Crab Roe and Fish Intestine, a masterful composition balancing freshness, sweetness and savoury complexity with a lingering, refined finish. The Crispy Cinnamon-infused Beef Short Rib captivates with the gentle fragrance of cinnamon and red dates, unfolding layers of warmth and richness. The experience culminates with a comforting Pork and Rice Noodle Roll with Macau’s century-old miso sauce, a tribute to local culinary heritage that provides a memorable and deeply authentic finale.

Complemented by a nourishing herbal soup and delicate petit fours, this exclusive dining experience is more than a pairing of rare aged Moutai and exceptional Cantonese cuisine, offering an unforgettable encounter with the artistry and enduring elegance of Cantonese gastronomy.

The signature dishes featured in “A Journey of Craft and Time – 15-Year Moutai Pairing Dinner” will remain available at House of Origin, offering guests the opportunity to savour the exceptional creations born from the collaboration between Galaxy Macau’s newest Cantonese dining destination and China’s iconic Moutai. Each dish elevates heritage, craftsmanship and refined Cantonese artistry.

Introducing a New Lunch Experience Inspired by the Seasons

Honouring the Cantonese philosophy of seasonal dining, Chef Xu and Chef Lam capture the essence of summer through House of Origin’s newly launched lunch service and seasonal menu. Showcasing an abundance of fresh gourds, vegetables and premium seasonal seafood, the menu also pays tribute to Macau’s culinary heritage through the thoughtful use of ingredients such as shrimp paste by the century-old Kong Hing Loong, reflecting respect for local flavours and traditions.

Designed to meet growing demand for an elevated daytime Cantonese dining experience, the new lunch service extends the warmth and intimacy of House of Origin’s authentic, refined dining concept into the afternoon. Upholding the restaurant’s signature “Refined Homeliness” philosophy, the menu celebrates ingredient purity, seasonality and meticulous craftsmanship.

Leading the “Exquisite Lunch Signature” menu are two newly introduced signature dishes: Crab Meat and Bitter Melon Silky Soup and Black Pepper Geoduck Clam Soup Rice Noodle.

The former combines sweet local bitter melon with fresh crab meat and crab stock to create a silky, refreshing soup with remarkable depth and elegance. The latter showcases a rich ivory-coloured broth simmered for four hours with pork tripe, old hen, pork bones and white peppercorns, accompanied by geoduck clam, wild sole fish fillet and sliced tripe. Finished tableside with the pouring of the fragrant hot broth, the dish delivers both culinary theatre and heart-warming comfort.

The summer menu further celebrates seasonal ingredients such as bitter melon, night-blooming jasmine and winter gourd, alongside premium seafood including young mud crab, fresh abalone, wild grouper and razor clams. Through masterful Cantonese techniques ranging from slow-simmered soups and velvety broths to expertly executed wok-frying, Chef Xu reveals the purest expression of each ingredient.

Among the highlights, Stir-Fried Conch and Partridge with Night-Scented Flower combines the delicate floral fragrance of jasmine blossoms with conch, shrimp, partridge and fresh lily bulbs, finished with crunchy walnuts for added texture and a captivating wok hei. The classic Double-Boiled Winter Melon and Frog with Dried Scallop, inspired by the celebrated Tai Shi Banquet tradition, features tender frog leg and sweet winter melon in a crystal-clear broth simmered for four hours. Equally enticing is Braised Hairy Gourd with Crab Roe Paste, where the natural sweetness of the gourd is elevated by the rich umami of aromatic crab paste.

Meanwhile, the comforting Rice Noodle Soup with Geoduck and Wild Sole embodies the warmth of a traditional family banquet, while the Crab Meat and Duran Bitter Melon Soup, featured on both the lunch and seasonal menus, offers guests a refreshing expression of summer that is both heart-warming and refined.

For the latest updates on Galaxy Macau and House of Origin, please visit: www.galaxymacau.com.

Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau

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

Source: PSA

Source: Animals Aotearoa

• 177 organisations worldwide stand with New Zealand against factory farming of highly sentient animals.
• Giant octopuses have appeared on billboards overnight, with a key message: Ban Octopus Factory Farming. 

The billboards come after advocacy charity Animals Aotearoa wrote to every New Zealand political party, requesting that they include a commitment to prohibit commercial octopus farming in their policy platforms for the upcoming election. The letter, cosigned by the Aquatic Animal Alliance coalition of 177 organisations across 75 countries – including NZ-based SPCA and SAFE – points to scientific evidence that octopuses are highly sentient animals with advanced cognitive abilities. Also highlighted are the absence of validated welfare safeguards, lack of humane slaughter methods, and environmental concerns about farming carnivorous species dependent on animal protein.

“Octopus factory farming is a bad investment in every sense,” says Marianne Macdonald, Executive Director of Animals Aotearoa. “Octopuses are sentient wonders. With three hearts, blue blood, and minds that dream, they navigate their ocean world with intelligence that rivals our own. They solve puzzles, navigate elaborate mazes, use tools, recognise individual humans, and even decorate their dens with shells. These are creatures to be in awe of, not to exploit in sordid factory farms.”

Steve Abel of The Green Party of Aotearoa New Zealand responded positively to the call to ban octopus farming, “We are concerned about efforts to introduce octopus farming to Aotearoa and support prohibiting octopus farming before this harmful practice can be established”, adding, “Octopus are extraordinary species and farming them is totally unacceptable”. Karen Singleton, Animal Justice Party Aotearoa NZ said, “Progress isn’t measured by what we can commercialise, but by the wisdom to know who should be left in the ocean. We already ask billions of animals to pay the price of economic growth. We don’t need to add octopuses to that list.”

“New Zealand has a unique opportunity to prevent the suffering associated with octopus factory farming before this industry begins to operate,” said Catalina López Salazar, Director of the Aquatic Animal Alliance. “Around the world, governments are increasingly recognizing that these highly intelligent, curious, and sentient animals cannot be raised humanely in intensive farming systems. By acting now, New Zealand can demonstrate global leadership in protecting animal welfare and set an example for other countries considering this emerging industry.”

Octopus aquaculture – a new form of intensive farming still in the research phase – would cause extensive harm. The New Zealand Government has already granted $1 million of public funds to the University of Auckland to advance this new form of exploitation. But because the octopus farming industry has not yet been established, there is a rare window of opportunity to prevent it from taking hold.

“We showed the octopus reaching out to show how often they’ve sought to connect with people,” Macdonald explains. “We also wanted to highlight that octopuses are escape artists of the highest calibre. These animals can fit through the tiniest of gaps, the size of their beak. But they need our help to escape a future in factory farms.”

A specially commissioned animation by Auckland-based artist Timothy Armstrong provides a glimpse of the risk octopus farming poses. Based on an industry research report, it features Octopus tetricus, the native octopus studied for exploitation in Aotearoa.

“In Aotearoa, the petition calling for a ban on octopus farming has gathered 7,770 petition signatures so far. New Zealanders are making clear they want their country at the forefront of this progress”, says Macdonald.

The campaign reflects a growing global movement. Washington State and California have already banned octopus farming. Legislation has been introduced in Mexico and Chile.

The petition is being officially launched at an event in Wellington, next Tuesday, 28 July. Sign at www.animalsaotearoa.org/stop-octopus-farming/
About Animals Aotearoa
New Zealand’s Animals Aotearoa is a registered charity whose mission is to improve the well-being of farmed animals and end their suffering. They work to protect the welfare of aquatic animals, with a particular focus on preventing octopus factory farming. They also improve the lives of chickens bred for meat by securing welfare commitments from food businesses and raising public awareness of the suffering caused by the way chickens are bred and farmed.

About the Aquatic Animal Alliance
Founded by the Aquatic Life Institute (ALI), the Aquatic Animal Alliance is a coalition of more than 190 advocacy organisations across 75 countries dedicated to improving the welfare of aquatic animals within the global food system.  ALI is an international non-profit organisation that works on advancing aquatic animal welfare in both aquaculture and wild capture fisheries globally. They work with certifiers, nonprofits, academic institutions, industry stakeholders, governments, and the public to improve the welfare of aquatic animals.

Notes Petition to ban octopus farming   Washington State and California have already banned octopus farming; seven more U.S. states are pursuing legislation against octopus farming, including Hawaii and New York, together with Mexico and Chile. Information about octopus farming The petition is being officially launched at an event in Wellington on Tuesday, 28th July.

HANOI, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 July 2026 – Vietfood & Beverage – Propack Vietnam 2026 is an annual international exhibition integrating two major sectors: Food & Beverage and Processing Equipment & Technology, Packaging – held continuously in Vietnam since 1996. The exhibition will take place over three days, from August 6-8, 2026, at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center (SECC), organised by VINEXAD in cooperation with the Ho Chi Minh City Food & Foodstuff Association (FFA) and the Vietnam Beer – Alcohol – Beverage Association (VBA), continuing to affirm its role as one of the leading and most trusted trade promotion events for Vietnam’s Food and Beverage (F&B) industry.

Beyond bringing together advanced products, technologies and solutions, Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam 2026 continues to serve as an important trade promotion platform, helping connect businesses, expand supply chains and drive sustainable growth for Vietnam’s food and beverage industry during this period of deep international integration.

F&B industry undergoing a strong transformation amid new trends

The food and beverage industry is entering a new phase of development as consumer demand moves beyond product quality alone toward more comprehensive values such as nutrition, health, sustainability and brand experience.

Alongside the growth of artificial intelligence (AI), digital transformation, e-commerce and ESG standards, F&B businesses are ramping up investment in modern production technology, automated production lines, eco-friendly packaging, traceability and supply chain optimisation to strengthen their competitiveness in the international market.

In addition, new-generation free trade agreements continue to open up export opportunities for Vietnam’s food industry, while also attracting international brands seeking to expand into a market of nearly 100 million people with growing purchasing power.

Against this backdrop, the need for trade connections, technology updates and strategic partnerships is becoming increasingly urgent, making specialised exhibitions one of the most effective trade promotion channels for businesses.

Vietfood & Beverage – Propack Vietnam 2026: a comprehensive networking platform for the F&B industry

Building on the success of previous editions, Vietfood & Beverage – Propack Vietnam 2026 continues to affirm its position as one of Vietnam’s largest international exhibitions for the Food & Beverage, Food Processing Technology and Packaging industries, and is also the first exhibition in this industry in Vietnam to be certified under the standards of the Global Association of the Exhibition Industry (UFI) – a guarantee of the event’s quality, scale and international standing.

Notably, 2026 marks the 30th edition of the exhibition held in Ho Chi Minh City, affirming its journey of sustainable development and its pioneering role over three decades of connecting the domestic and international F&B business community. This year’s exhibition reaches an impressive scale with more than 1,400 booths from over 1,000 companies across 20+ countries and territories, and is expected to attract more than 40,000 visitors, further confirming the event’s outstanding appeal and influence within the industry.

Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam 2026 brings together every link in the food and beverage value chain, from raw materials, production and processing to packaging, logistics, and distribution and retail systems. Within the exhibition space, thousands of products, technologies, and advanced solutions will be showcased, covering the entire F&B ecosystem – from processed foods, premium foods, beverages, coffee and tea, confectionery, seafood and meat products, to food ingredients and additives, as well as processing machinery and equipment, packaging technology and modern technology solutions. This is an opportunity for businesses to find partners, keep up with market trends, access new technology and expand their domestic and international business networks.

More than a venue for launching new products, Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam also serves as a forum for businesses to grasp consumer trends, find partners, expand distribution systems and access solutions that enhance competitiveness in an ever-changing market.

For international businesses, the exhibition is an effective gateway into the Vietnamese and Southeast Asian markets. Meanwhile, domestic businesses have the opportunity to access new technology, find suppliers, expand exports, and participate more deeply in the global value chain.

Adding value – bringing together thousands of domestic and international businesses

Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam 2026 brings together thousands of domestic and international brands from more than 20 countries and territories, including China, India, Japan, Malaysia, Poland, Russia, South Korea, Taiwan (China), Thailand and Vietnam.

At the event, the Diamond Sponsor – Masan Group Corporation (‘Masan Group, HOSE: MSN’) – will showcase its portfolio of leading brands, including CHIN-SU, Omachi, Vinacafé, Nam Ngư and WinEco, reaffirming its leadership in Vietnam’s branded food and beverage industry as well as high-tech agriculture. Guided by a consumer-centric strategy, Masan is committed to creating products that enrich the everyday lives of Vietnamese consumers while advancing the company’s vision to ‘Make Vietnamese Foods Global Foods’. At this year’s event, Vinacafé will introduce its premium Fine Robusta collection, crafted from specialty Robusta beans cultivated at altitudes above 1,000 metres. Naturally fermented and slow-dried for up to 720 hours, Fine Robusta delivers a refined coffee experience with rich, multi-layered flavour profiles and versatile brewing options.

The Beverage Pavilion continues to bring together leading brands in the industry, showcasing a diverse range of beverage products and emerging consumer trends. Supporting this dedicated exhibition area are Saigon Beer as the Gold Sponsor of the Beverage Pavilion, Hanoi Beer as the Silver Advertising Sponsor of the Beverage Pavilion, and Carlsberg Vietnam as the Bronze Sponsor of the Beverage Pavilion. Their participation contributes to promoting outstanding beverage brands while creating valuable networking opportunities between exhibitors, buyers, distributors and business partners.

The exhibition also continues to welcome the participation of many reputable domestic and international brands in the food and beverage industry, including Golden Farm, Tan Nhat Huong, Fancy Foods, Dan On, Vedan, Bibica, Huu Nghi, TH true FOOD, Khanh Hoa Bird’s Nest, Vietcoco, Rita, Miocen, Wonderful and Nam Viet, alongside international companies such as Allanasons, Al-Nasir, APK TRADING, Agroeco, Amos Food, Al-ammar Frozen Foods, Rustam Foods, Wellstand, Want Want, Learth, Kingmao and Cobi.

In the field of processing technology and packaging, the exhibition brings together companies offering advanced solutions such as Eulsung Auto Pack, Eastern Dragon, EIP, Han Viet Star, MMP Corporation, Shininghwa, QCM, Mutto Vietnam, Hao Tuan, Song Hiep Loi, Tan Phuong Vinh and Hoa Binh, showcasing modern technologies in automation, smart packaging, and production optimisation.

In addition to featuring leading domestic and international brands, Vietfood & Beverage – Propack Vietnam 2026 also reflects diverse participation from businesses across key markets around the world, including Australia, Bangladesh, China, Denmark, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Poland, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan (China), Thailand, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), the United States and Vietnam. The presence of these countries not only reflects the exhibition’s increasing level of internationalisation but also presents a comprehensive overview of the global F&B supply chain – from raw materials and processed products to manufacturing technologies and modern packaging solutions.

Further affirming its international appeal, the exhibition welcomes national and territorial pavilions with participation from businesses in China, India, Japan, Malaysia, Poland, Russia, South Korea, Taiwan (China), Thailand and Vietnam. These pavilions are organized on a large, cohesive scale, showcasing each country’s signature products, export strengths, and advanced technology solutions, thereby creating favourable conditions for Vietnamese businesses to directly access quality supply sources, expand trade cooperation, and strengthen connections across the global Food & Beverage value chain.

One of the standout highlights of Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam 2026 is the continued participation of international trade promotion programs, affirming the exhibition’s appeal and credibility among foreign organizations and businesses. A prime example is The Taste Europe!, a program promoting high-quality European food products. This marks the fifth consecutive year the project has chosen the exhibition as its destination for brand promotion and trade connections in the Vietnamese market, introducing visitors to pork, beef, and processed products made from these two meats, as well as promoting apples and apple-based products.

In addition, The Drop of Excellence continues its participation in the exhibition for the second year of a promotional program spanning at least three years in the Asian market. The program focuses on introducing high-quality European dairy products, including many products from Poland, helping to expand trade cooperation opportunities and bring European agricultural products closer to Vietnamese consumers and businesses.

Notably, a delegation of Polish businesses continues to attend Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam with support from Poland’s National Support Centre for Agriculture, under the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of the Republic of Poland. The consistent presence of Polish business delegations over the years reflects the growing interest of European businesses in the Vietnamese market and further affirms the exhibition’s role as an effective trade promotion bridge between Vietnamese businesses and international partners.

For many consecutive years, the Russian Trade Promotion Centre in Vietnam has supported Russian businesses in participating in Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam, viewing the exhibition as one of the most effective trade promotion channels for showcasing products, finding partners, and expanding into the Vietnamese market. This continues to affirm the exhibition’s credibility and standing as an important destination for international trade promotion programs in the food and beverage sector.

A series of specialised activities: connecting businesses – driving innovation – expanding cooperation

Beyond serving as an exhibition and trade space, Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam 2026 continues to affirm its role as a forum connecting the F&B community through a series of seminars, workshops, business-matching programs and engaging experiential activities.

The activity series opens with the international seminar ‘Building Premium Value in F&B: From Brand Identity to Distribution Channels and Packaging’ (on August 6, 2026), co-organised by VINEXAD, Italian Atelier, and CJC Marketing Agency. The seminar focuses on brand-building strategy, distribution channel development, and packaging design for F&B businesses to enhance product value and competitiveness.

Next, the specialized seminar “Green Transformation, Digital Technology, and Sustainable Nutrition” (on August 7, 2026), co-organized by VINEXAD and the Vietnam Association of Food Science and Technology (VAFOST), will provide updates on key trends in digital transformation, AI applications, sustainable product development, and supply chain optimization.

Also in the afternoon of August 7, 2026, the seminar ‘Food Packaging Compliance Management in the New Context’ organised by VINEXAD and the Vietnam Packaging Association (VINPAS), will provide new information on regulations, packaging standards, Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR), and solutions to help businesses meet domestic and international market requirements.

At the same time, the Young Chefs Challenge: Culinary Arena, a cooking competition for young talent now in its second edition, organized in cooperation with the A Au Vocational Training Academy and the Ho Chi Minh City College of Economics and Tourism (CET), will give young chefs a platform to showcase their skills and creativity in food preparation while connecting with businesses and experts in the food and culinary service industry.

In addition, the F&B Spotlight – Business Presentations segment will allow companies to introduce their own products, technologies, and new solutions, helping them promote their brands and connect directly with customers and partners.

Notably, the VIP Buyer Program remains a key highlight, featuring scheduled B2B trade-matching activities that help improve trade promotion efficiency between businesses and domestic and international buyers, as well as major corporations (Big Corps) in the industry, opening up numerous opportunities for cooperation and business growth.

Alongside this, a check-in gift and lucky draw program, together with various interactive activities at the exhibition, will offer an engaging experience and help create a lively atmosphere throughout the three-day event.

Affirming its position as Vietnam’s leading F&B exhibition

The convergence of numerous domestic and international brands together with a high-quality series of specialised activities has established Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam 2026 as one of the most important trade promotion events in the F&B industry, helping to drive supply-demand connections, innovation, and expanded cooperation opportunities across the region.

Beyond bringing together advanced products, technologies, and solutions, the exhibition also serves as a bridge between businesses, buyers, associations, and domestic and international organizations, helping to drive innovation, technology transfer, market expansion and the enhanced competitiveness of Vietnamese businesses within the global value chain.

As the food and beverage industry moves toward a greener, smarter, and more sustainable future, Vietfood & Beverage – ProPack Vietnam 2026 is expected to continue driving cooperation, investment, and development, accompanying businesses on their journey to elevate Vietnamese brands and conquer new markets.

Contact Information:
VINEXAD – No. 09 Dinh Le Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi
Ms. Dao Thu Ha – Project Director
Mobile: (+84) 912 000 406 – Email: daoha@vinexad.com.vn

Hashtag: #Vinexad

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

Source: Fish and Game NZ

JOHOR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 17 July 2026 – Forest City Special Financial Zone (Forest City SFZ), Malaysia’s pioneering special financial zone and emerging lifestyle and leisure hub, today released updated visitor data and travel guidance ahead of the upcoming 2026 peak travel season. New visitor data now confirms that Forest City has recorded approximately 4 million coastal visitors, over 100,000 golfers and 57 international events at its golf resort, and more than 260,000 guests at its two hotels in 2025, reinforcing its status as a growing cross-border tourism and leisure destination. The figures come as the Johor Bahru–Singapore Rapid Transit System (RTS) Link approaches completion, with passenger service expected to begin in January 2027, further enhancing transportation convenience.

Forest City SFZ at a glance

Forest City SFZ is a coastal development in Johor, Malaysia, located approximately 2 km across the Tebrau Strait from Singapore. It was then designated a Special Financial Zone by the Malaysian government in August 2023. The Malaysian Parliament passed five federal bills in July 2024 designating Pulau Satu as the country’s fifth duty-free island, and the first that visitors can enter directly by vehicle.

For travellers, Forest City SFZ offers a 4 km publicly accessible coastline, two championship-rated golf courses (including its Classic Course, which has ranked in the Top 100 Golf Courses in Asia for seven consecutive years), guided mangrove eco-tours, sea fishing trips, and duty-free shopping. It is currently the only duty-free island in Malaysia that can be entered by vehicle without a ferry.

The Forest City beach experience with open shoreline, mangroves and sea fishing

The 4 km coastline and surrounding environment are designed to make visitors forget they are only minutes away from the city. Soft sand beaches slope gently into the water, shallow enough for children to paddle and deep enough for kayakers, windsurfers, and other water sports enthusiasts to find their rhythm. It is this unpretentious charm that has drawn approximately 4 million coastal visits in 2025 — offering an open, welcoming, and peaceful place that doesn’t feel too far from home.

The wider development sits within roughly 2.86 million m² of green space — including both golf courses, parks, mangrove corridors, and landscaped public zones — with over 400 documented plant and animal species recorded on‑site. For visitors interested in the island’s natural beauty, guided mangrove eco‑tours run along the development’s green corridor. A one‑ to two‑hour trip with a registered boat operator takes travellers past fish nurseries and bird habitats, with a stop to see the ongoing mangrove restoration work along the Johor coastline. Sea fishing trips depart from the marina with expert guides accompanying guests throughout the journey. Bookings can be made either through the hotel concierge or via official Forest Life app.

Forest City has developed three core commercial districts, bringing together over 100 shops that cover a diverse range of business formats, including international dining, duty‑free shopping, retail, healthcare, finance, and leisure and entertainment. Regular festivals, sports events, and cultural gatherings along the beachfront bring Forest City’s “Eat · Play · Chill by the Sea” concept to life.

Two championship golf courses with a seven-year ranking streak

A journey through Forest City Golf Resort reveals a landscape designed with nature in mind. Two 18‑hole championship courses sit side by side on a single property: the Classic Course, designed by veteran architect Liang Guokun, runs 7,138 yards across 69 hectares; the Legacy Course, a rare collaboration between Jack Nicklaus and Jack Nicklaus II, stretches 7,386 yards across 74 hectares. Both are GEO Certified, a mark of environmental stewardship that audits water use, biodiversity, energy, and waste.

The Classic Course has placed in the Top 100 Golf Courses in Asia for seven consecutive years (2020–2026), a feat few courses can claim. In 2026, it climbed 14 places to No. 36 in Asia and retained its title as No. 1 in Malaysia. The Legacy Course, meanwhile, ranked No. 49 in the Asia‑Pacific Top 100 (2024–2025). In 2025, the resort welcomed over 100,000 golfers, serving as a vibrant hub for both casual golfers and professionals.

For travellers seeking events to experience, the resort hosts more than 50 tournament dates annually, including pro‑am events and corporate days. 57 major tournaments were held in 2025. The wider development hosts more than 100 international events a year — from endurance races to lifestyle festivals, including the Challenge Malaysia triathlon scheduled for October 2026.

Duty-Free Retail on Pulau Satu

Forest City was gazetted as a duty-free island under five Federal bills passed by the Malaysian Parliament in July 2024. This transformation has positioned Forest City as Malaysia’s fifth duty-free island and the first that visitors can enter directly by vehicle, without a ferry crossing.

Shelf prices on the gazetted categories — alcoholic beverages, chocolate and confectionery, cosmetics, perfumes, and other goods — are typically lower than equivalent purchases on the Malaysian mainland or in Singapore retail.

For vehicle access, visitors should take the following into consideration:

• Identification: Visitors should ensure they bring valid identification for vehicle entry.
• Import Allowances: Per-passenger import allowances on goods carried back into mainland Malaysia or into Singapore are strictly governed by the respective customs authorities. Visitors are encouraged to check the latest government guidelines and current allowances for Malaysia or Singapore before making purchases.
• Singapore Residents: GST relief thresholds and specific allowances for alcohol and tobacco are set by Singapore Customs; please verify these against the official live portal when visiting.

Forest City Accommodation: Marina Hotel, Golf Hotel, long-term stays

Forest City Marina Hotel is the development’s flagship beachfront property, offering 283 rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame a 270-degree view across the Strait of Johor. Multiple dining outlets, a swimming pool, and conference facilities make it a versatile base for both leisure and business travellers. For golf-led trips, the Forest City Golf Hotel, winner of the prestigious Agoda 2025 Gold Circle Award, sits within the resort grounds and offers stay-and-play packages bundled with green fees on either course.

Forest City Golf Hotel is a five-star retreat set within the 800-hectare Forest City Golf Resort, offering 298 spacious guestrooms and suites, including Superior and Deluxe Rooms, Superior and Deluxe Suites, a Family Suite and three Presidential Suites, many with views of the surrounding golf landscape. Guests can enjoy Asian, Western and international cuisine at the Tee-Off Restaurant, private dining spaces for family gatherings and business occasions, as well as café and lounge facilities.

The hotel also provides direct access to championship golf, swimming pools, a gym, spa, golf shop, executive lounge, meeting rooms, a grand ballroom and event venues, making it suitable for leisure stays, golf getaways, corporate meetings and private celebrations.

During tournament weekends and major events, the Marina Hotel typically operates at full occupancy, with overflow demand absorbed by short-term rental units.

For longer stays and family groups, Forest City’s residential blocks offer a substantial inventory of professionally managed serviced apartments, ideal for those seeking more space or a home-away-from-home experience. Blue Horizon Suites, a newly launched sea-view serviced residence in 2026, features panoramic ocean views and a comprehensive suite of modern amenities, including a swimming pool, private beach access, and close proximity to the golf course.

Beyond accommodation, Forest City delivers an integrated lifestyle environment, with year-round dining options, the on-site Forest City International School (a CATS Global Schools campus), and the duty-free retail cluster on Pulau Satu.

Accessibility: getting to Forest City SFZ in 2026

Forest City SFZ sits approximately 2 km across the Tebrau Strait from Singapore, closer to central Singapore than most Singaporeans are to Changi Airport. By road via the Tuas Second Link, the drive is roughly 40 minutes from Singapore CBD(Central Business District) and roughly 60 minutes from Changi Airport.

From Johor Bahru CBD, the journey takes approximately 30 minutes by car, while Senai International Airport is about 50 minutes away. This puts travellers at the coast, close enough for a spontaneous weekend escape, yet far enough to feel like a proper getaway. For Singapore-based visitors, hotel shuttles and chartered coaches via the Second Link are the most convenient option, with the journey offering a scenic Strait crossing as a picturesque introduction to the destination.

The RTS Link, targeted for completion in December 2026, will reduce the Bukit Chagar–Woodlands North crossing time to about five minutes, with an expected fare of approximately S$5–S$7 and peak capacity of 10,000 passengers per hour per direction.

From	Mode	Approx. time	Notes
Singapore CBD	Car via Second Link	~40 min	Tuas Checkpoint; allow weekend buffer
Singapore Changi Airport	Car via Second Link	~60 min	Most direct from arrival
Singapore Woodlands	RTS Link (passenger Jan 2027)	~5 min crossing + transfer	S$5–S$7 fare; confirm onward connection
Johor Bahru CBD	Car	~30 min	Local taxi or e-hailing
Senai International Airport	Car	~50 min	Domestic + regional gateway

Singapore weekend visitors can arrive on Friday evening via the Second Link, with the journey from Singapore’s CBD taking approximately 40 minutes. The stay-and-play package offers a low-friction entry point: two nights’ accommodation at the Forest City Golf Hotel, daily breakfast, and one round of 18 holes on the Classic Course. Saturday and Sunday can be split between golf and the 4 km public coastline, with duty‑free shopping and a long brunch on Pulau Satu before the return crossing.
Malaysian families on a long weekend can fill an unhurried two‑day itinerary with the 4 km coastline, mangrove eco‑tours and water sports. The coastline has drawn approximately 4 million visitors in 2025, with school‑holiday weeks bringing the most coastal events. For families with children, the Forest City Water Park offers gentle water play zones and casual aquatic recreation suitable for younger visitors.

Corporate groups, MICE planners and cross‑border professionals can utilise the Forest City Hotel’s conference facilities and block-booking capabilities. The resort’s 57 major golf tournaments in 2025 demonstrate its capacity to absorb large groups. The Marina Hotel spans over 830,000 sq. ft with 283 rooms, multiple dining outlets, a fitness centre and a swimming pool. Once the RTS Link begins passenger service in January 2027, Forest City will become viable as a same‑day cross‑border meeting venue for Singapore‑based groups, with the Bukit Chagar–Woodlands North crossing reduced to approximately five minutes.

A destination backed by policy, infrastructure, and visitor data

A single weekend at any leisure destination can tell only a small part of the bigger story. But the data — 4 km of public coastline, two championship golf courses with a seven-year Asia’s Top 100 streak, status as Malaysia’s fifth duty-free island, more than 100 events a year, and located just 2 km from Singapore, with an RTS Link offering passenger service from January 2027 — point to a growing travel destination backed by infrastructure and policy support.

Hashtag: #ForestCity

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

New Zealand residential construction costs continued to edge higher in the June quarter, with stronger building activity and renewed global cost pressures driving the fastest annual increase in almost three years.
 
The latest Cordell Construction Cost Index (CCCI) shows residential construction costs rose 1.1% in the three months to June, up from 1.0% in the March quarter and broadly in line with the long-term quarterly average.
 
Annual cost growth accelerated to 3.5%, from 3.0% in the previous quarter, marking the strongest annual increase since mid-2023.
 
Cotality NZ Chief Property Economist Kelvin Davidson said although the annual figure was still below the long-term average of around 4%, the figures suggest the period of unusually subdued construction cost growth has begun to fade.

“Construction costs aren’t surging again, but conditions are becoming less favourable for builders and households, who may have been hoping build costs would soften further,” he said.

“As construction activity starts to recover, quarterly growth remains close to its long-run average, but the annual rate has accelerated for three consecutive quarters. That suggests the exceptionally quiet period for construction cost inflation is probably behind us.”

He said the construction sector was emerging from a prolonged downturn, with more projects beginning to move ahead after a significant lift in dwelling consents over recent months.
 
“The annual number of dwelling consents has risen from below 34,000 last year to more than 39,000 and even though not every consent becomes a completed home, it’s a sign that activity is beginning to return.”

Recovery brings fresh cost pressures
 
Alongside stronger domestic activity, global events also flowed through to impact construction costs.
 
Oil price increases following the conflict in the Middle East have led to higher transport costs, while suppliers are reporting price hikes on several building materials.
 
Cordell’s latest analysis identified increases across structural steel, plumbing components, insulation and aluminium roofing accessories, with several suppliers indicating further increases may follow if global uncertainty persists.
 
“Builders are still operating in a competitive market where existing house prices have been flat or only rising modestly, so there’s limited ability to pass higher costs directly on to customers,” he said.
 
“That means many firms are absorbing some of those increases through tighter margins rather than significantly increasing contract prices.”
 
“Clearly, a lasting US-Iran peace deal would be another welcome boost for the sector, as well as taking some heat out of cost pressures. But unfortunately this hope has gone backwards in recent days.”
 
Better home building conditions ahead
 
Despite higher construction costs, Mr Davidson said the growing prospect of improving economic conditions should support a gradual recovery in residential building over the second half of the year, notwithstanding US-Iran uncertainty.
 
Lower mortgage rates, easing inflation pressures and stronger confidence – if they become reality – were expected to improve project feasibility for both developers and owner-builders.
 
“If inflation can moderate a bit and interest rates remain supportive, more households will have the confidence to commit to building,” he said.
 
“Construction costs aren’t cheap by any means, but the industry isn’t seeing the rapid increases we experienced through 2021 and 2022. Conditions are closer to long-term averages, where modest cost increases reflect healthier levels of activity rather than the supply shocks we saw during the pandemic.”
 
However, Mr Davidson said construction costs were likely to come under further upward pressure as the pipeline of approved projects continued to grow.
 
“A busier construction sector is ultimately positive for housing supply, even if it brings some modest upward pressure on build costs.”
 
The CCCI is comprised of around 50% materials, 40% wages, and 10% for other charges such as professional fees.

Over the last few months, the Central South Island Fish and Game Council (CSIFGC) has established a formal closure threshold for its regional sea-run salmon fishery following careful deliberation across four separate meetings. The 2026 Rangitata River spawning count has been confirmed at 222 fish – 22 above the new closure threshold – meaning there will be no changes proposed to sea-run salmon regulations for the upcoming 2026/27 season.

• Spotify ( https://us.list-manage.com/U3wULGHmPC2?e=f1c48a8452&c2id=9b579be3ee47461f6132cd191ca97fdf ) and 
• Apple Play ( https://us.list-manage.com/bNNezGC9XHu?e=f1c48a8452&c2id=9b579be3ee47461f6132cd191ca97fdf )

Notes

The Homosexual Law Reform Act 1986 decriminalised consensual sexual activity between men aged 16 and over. It did not address discrimination directly, but it opened the door to later protections against discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation that followed with the Human Rights Act 1993.

Key dates: Bill introduced 7 March 1985; third reading (passed) 9 July 1986; Homosexual Law Reform Act came into force 8 August 1986.

Discussions on the podcast reflect that it was recorded while submissions were open on the Legislation (Definitions of Woman and Man) Amendment Bill. Submissions on that bill closed on 2 July 2026.

• Residential Market: Q2 residential transaction numbers increased by 19% q-o-q and 32% y-o-y to reach more than 22,150 units. Home prices rose by 2.5% during April and May, bringing a cumulative 7.4% increase for the first five months, with growth recorded across different segments.
• Grade A Office Market: Citywide net absorption reached 396,100 sq ft in Q2, with new leases mainly driven by the banking & finance and insurance sectors. Core areas such as Greater Central witnessed significant rental pick up, offsetting rental corrections in non-core submarkets. Cushman & Wakefield expects the overall office market rental level to rise by +4% to +6% in 2026.
• Retail Market: Overall retail sales maintained steady growth on the back of sustained rises in inbound visitors and a stronger RMB. High street vacancy rates in Causeway Bay and Central remained at 0% in Q2, with Hong Kong Island leading a rental growth recovery.
• Capital Markets: Hong Kong’s commercial real estate investment market sustained the momentum carried over from late 2025. Supported by demand from end-users and still-attractive pricing levels across property sectors, total large-sized (>HK$100 million) non-residential transaction volume for the 1H 2026 period recorded HK$23.2 billion, up 84% y-o-y.

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 July 2026 – Global real estate services firm Cushman & Wakefield today held its Hong Kong Property Markets 1H 2026 Review and 2H 2026 Outlook press conference. Residential market activity remained robust as transaction numbers surpassed 22,000 cases in Q2, the highest quarterly record since Q2 2021. Grade A office market net absorption reached 396,100 sq ft in Q2, with rental level recovery mainly driven by core areas. Greater Central rents continued to pick up by 4.1% q-o-q in Q2, supporting the citywide rental level to grow by 1.9% q-o-q. In the retail sector, total retail sales continued to recover steadily, while high street store vacancy in Causeway Bay and Central returned to 0%, supporting stronger rental performance on Hong Kong Island and outpacing Kowloon. In the capital markets, end-users and well-capitalized investors bottom-fished amid attractive office asset pricing. Living sector and residential site transactions are expected to be the market focus in the upcoming months.

Grade A office leasing market: Leasing momentum driven by banking & finance and insurance sectors, rental recovery led by core areas
Driven by take-up at recent new entrants into the market, citywide office market net absorption reached 396,100 sq ft in the quarter, mainly led by Greater Central and Greater Tsimshatsui. The total new leased area reached 1.2 million sq ft in Q2, underpinned by activities from the banking & finance and insurance sectors. Rents in Greater Central continued to pick up, rising by a further 4.1% q-o-q in Q2 for total growth of 9.7% in 1H 2026, while rental level growth of 2.9% q-o-q was seen in Wanchai/ Causeway Bay. In contrast, rents in non-core areas remained soft, with all four non-core submarkets experiencing rental corrections in Q2 and 1H. The recovery in core areas has supported citywide rental growth of 1.9% q-o-q in Q2 and 4.3% for 1H 2026. In the absence of new completions in Q2, the overall availability rate fell by 0.5 percentage points q-o-q to 19.5%.

John Siu, Managing Director, Hong Kong, Cushman & Wakefield, said, “Despite the uncertainties arising from recent stock market volatility and geopolitical tensions, leasing demand from the banking & finance and insurance sectors is expected to remain resilient, backed by ongoing wealth management activities, an active IPO pipeline, and long-term operational needs from finance-related institutions. These two sectors accounted for around 60% of Grade A office new leased area in 1H 2026, compared with 38% in 2024. Following strong rental growth in Greater Central in 1H 2026, the upwards momentum is expected to moderate in 2H. Full-year rental growth in the submarket is projected in the +10% to +12% range. This will help offset the impact of rental corrections in certain non-core submarkets, and support the citywide Grade A office rental level to rise by +4% to +6% in 2026, revised upward from the previous forecast of +1% to +3%.”

Retail leasing market: High street vacancy in Causeway Bay and Central holds at 0%, more overseas brands to establish presence in Hong Kong
Sustained rises in inbound visitors, along with the wealth effect from an improving residential market and a stronger RMB, have continued to support steady growth in Hong Kong’s retail market. As at May 2026, the city’s overall retail sales marked thirteen consecutive months of y-o-y growth, while total retail sales for the January to May 2026 period recorded HK$171.5 billion, up 10.6% y-o-y. Sales growth was recorded in all key retail categories. The Jewellery & Watches sector remained the most popular among tourists, posting y-o-y growth of 26.2%, followed by the Fashion & Accessories and Medicines & Cosmetics sectors, which grew 5.4% and 5.2%, respectively.

The overall high street vacancy rate rose mildly to 5.4% in Q2 from 4.2% in Q1, chiefly driven by greater vacancies in Kowloon. Causeway Bay and Central both continued to register zero vacancies through the quarter, while vacancy rates in Tsimshatsui and Mongkok rose to 8.3% and 8.6%, respectively. Despite this, new leasing activity was witnessed across core retail districts, with relatively strong leasing demand from pharmacies and jewellery & watches retailers.

As for high street retail rents, rental recovery in Hong Kong Island continued to outperform Kowloon. Causeway Bay and Central recorded q-o-q increases of 1.0% and 0.8%, respectively, with both local and international retailers displaying preferences for these two prime high-street hubs. At the same time, the relatively affordable and reasonable rental levels in Mongkok attracted a wider range of brand entries into the district, bringing q-o-q rental growth to 0.5%. However, with the slowdown among luxury retailers, rental levels in Tsimshatsui remained under pressure, declining by 1.1% q-o-q. In the F&B sector, landlords have been more willing to offer discounts amid high availability, resulting in F&B rents across four key retail districts recording q-o-q declines within a 1% range.

John Siu commented, “Looking ahead, we expect the Hong Kong retail market to remain on a steady recovery trajectory in 2H 2026, supported by continued growth in inbound tourist numbers and recovering tourist spending amid a stronger RMB. Given still-attractive rental levels, we also expect ongoing entries of new retailers, especially from international brands who view the Hong Kong market as a strategic launchpad for regional expansion in Asia. Causeway Bay and Central are likely to remain active for leasing activities, underpinned by strong tourist footfall. We forecast high street retail rents in Causeway Bay and Central to lead a recovery and increase by 3% to 5% in 2H 2026, while we project Tsimshatsui and Mongkok to pick up modestly in the range of 1% to 2%.”

Residential market: Prices and sales rise in 1H, interest rate uncertainty may weigh on 2H sentiment
The Hong Kong residential market continued to gain momentum in Q2, with overall sentiment and transactions remaining active despite the disruptions brought on by ongoing geopolitical uncertainties. Both primary and secondary sales were strong in Q2, with the total number of residential sales and purchases agreements reaching more than 22,150 cases in the quarter, up 19% q-o-q and 32% y-o-y (Chart 3), bringing the total transaction number for the 1H 2026 period to more than 40,800 cases, a new high for the same period since 2021. As at June, the monthly number of residential sales and purchases agreements exceeded 5,000 units for 16 consecutive months, reflecting sustained buyer confidence and demand from investors. Strong sales at new launches saw primary market transactions take a 32% share of total transactions between January and May.

Edgar Lai, Senior Director, Valuation and Advisory Services, Hong Kong, Cushman & Wakefield, highlighted, “Home prices continued to increase in Q2 2026. Rating and Valuation Department data suggests that the overall residential price index picked up 2.5% in the two months from April to May, bringing 7.4% YTD growth. Meanwhile, our Cushman & Wakefield mid-and-small size units price index shows that home prices rose by 4% q-o-q and 9% in 1H. Our tracking of popular housing estates shows that price growth was witnessed across different market segments. Prices at City One Shatin, representing the mass market, rose 4.7% q-o-q, while prices at Taikoo Shing, representing the mid-market, grew by 8.6% q-o-q. Residence Bel-Air, representing the luxury segment, also recorded a notable 6.7% q-o-q rise. However, following the sustained release of pent-up demand over the past year, coupled with rising stock market volatility in June and tighter cross-border capital controls from the Chinese mainland, our June Verbal Enquiry index indicates that buyer enquiries moderated towards the end of the quarter, compared with the peak seen in April and May.”

Rosanna Tang, Deputy Managing Director, Head of Research, Hong Kong, Cushman & Wakefield, added, “The Hong Kong residential market extended its positive momentum in Q2, with overall transaction activity remaining vibrant. Total residential transaction numbers in the quarter exceeded 22,150 cases, marking a new high since Q2 2021. Looking ahead to 2H, uncertainties in interest rate movements are expected to widen. Some potential buyers may again observe how geopolitical developments and stock market trends are affecting capital flow and market sentiment. Yet, given the resilient housing demand in the city, backed by rising numbers from incoming talent and non-local students, Hong Kong residential market is expected to remain stable in 2H. We anticipate full-year transactions in 2026 to reach approximately 75,000 units, while home prices to pick up by close to 10%. In terms of rents, rental index picked up by 1.8% in the first five months in 2026, rising 18% from the last bottom in 2023. Rental growth is expected to be moderate and stay within 5% y-o-y in 2026.”

Non-residential investment market (dealsexceeding HK$100 million): Transaction momentum sustains, with end-users leading office transactions
Amid the still-attractive pricing across property sectors, the Hong Kong commercial real estate investment market largely sustained the transaction momentum carried over from 2H 2025. The city’s non-residential investment market for deals exceeding HK$100 million recorded 50 transactions in 1H 2026, with total transaction volume rising 84% y-o-y to HK$23.2 billion, although down 16% from the HK$27.8 billion seen in the 2H 2025 period. (Chart 4). In 1H 2026, local buyers remained the major source of capital, accounting for more than 70% of the total consideration. Foreign capital comprised 19% of 1H 2026 total transaction volume, drawn by discounted property prices and conversion projects with value-added angles. By asset class, the office sector accounted for 54% of total investment consideration, followed by around 23% from the hotel / rental housing sector.

Tom Ko, Executive Director and Head of Capital Markets, Hong Kong, Cushman & Wakefield, concluded, “In 1H 2026, office sales transactions continued to account for the largest share of both consideration and deal count, indicating a recovery in the investment ecosystem. During this round of consolidation, end-user buyers acted to capture bottom-fishing opportunities, with multiple large-scale office deals concluded. Our recent publication in May 2026, Hong Kong Office Building Investment Back in Focus: A Market Reassessment, suggests the significant capital value adjustment has reset entry levels and reopened the market to end-users seeking bottom-fishing opportunities, especially for education institutions, banks and financial institutions, as well as leading Chinese mainland corporates.

“Notably, some end-user buyers are cash-rich and therefore less sensitive to banks’ cautious lending stance toward commercial properties, and to interest rate movements. Office capital values are projected to follow the recovery in rents. Coupled with the declining availability of distressed office assets, the current market encourages end-users to accelerate their decision-making to consider bottom-fishing ahead of the subsequent upcycle. Looking ahead to 2H 2026, we believe demand from end-users and the living sector will remain the major drivers of investment activity. The market has also witnessed growing momentum in private residential sites transactions, with investors strategically expanding land banks amid a buoyant residential market. We expect to see more transactions in this segment through the remainder of the year. Against this backdrop, the 2026 full-year investment volume is now forecast to reach more than HK$40 billion.”

Please click here to download photo and presentation deck.

(From left to right) Tom Ko, Executive Director and Head of Capital Markets, Hong Kong, Cushman & Wakefield; John Siu, Managing Director, Hong Kong, Cushman & Wakefield; Rosanna Tang, Deputy Managing Director, Head of Research, Hong Kong, Cushman & Wakefield and Edgar Lai, Senior Director, Valuation and Advisory Services, Hong Kong, Cushman & Wakefield.

Hashtag: #Cushman&Wakefield

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

Source: Beyond Animal Research

Source: ChildFund New Zealand

Source: Greenpeace

Source: Ia Ara Aotearoa Transporting New Zealand