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Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 opens in Bangkok

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Five days of culture, music and water celebrations at Benchakitti Park reinforce UNESCO-recognised Songkran as a leading global festival

BANGKOK, April 12, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) has officially opened the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 at Benchakitti Park, Bangkok. Running until 15 April, the five-day event brings together cultural heritage, live entertainment and water celebrations at one of Thailand’s largest Songkran gatherings.

Mr. Surasak Phancharoenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports, presided over the opening ceremony of the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 at Benchakitti Park, Bangkok, alongside Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, and senior public and private sector representatives, marking the start of nationwide celebrations showcasing Thailand’s cultural heritage and festive spirit.
Mr. Surasak Phancharoenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports, presided over the opening ceremony of the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 at Benchakitti Park, Bangkok, alongside Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, and senior public and private sector representatives, marking the start of nationwide celebrations showcasing Thailand’s cultural heritage and festive spirit.

The opening ceremony on 11 April was attended by Mr. Surasak Phancharoenworakul, Minister of Tourism and Sports, alongside senior representatives from the public and private sectors.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said, “Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 is a celebration designed for everyone — across generations, regions and the world. It brings together the very best of Thai culture and contemporary festivity, reinforcing Songkran’s standing as a truly global festival. With UNESCO’s recognition of Songkran in Thailand as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, we are proud to present an experience that is deeply rooted in tradition and boldly modern, further establishing Thailand as a world-class festival destination.”

Opening night features the Maha Songkran World Event parade at 18:30 Hrs. on the main stage, spotlighting this year’s Songkran deity, Nang Raksasdevi, portrayed by Opal Suchata Chuangsri, Miss World 2025.

The “Songkran 5 Regions” zone (from 11:00 to 22:00 Hrs. daily) presents Thailand’s regional diversity through traditional performances, local product showcases, activities and temple fair experiences, including sand pagoda building and Buddha image bathing. Dedicated areas for the elderly and children ensure accessibility for all ages, with over 100 stalls offering Thai food and products.

Leading Thai artists perform on the main stage (from 17:00 to 22:00 Hrs.), including Fool Step, Zani, Zeal, Kratae, Asia7, The Mousses, Lham Somphol, Ink Waruntorn, Monica, Playground, Palmy, Maiyarap, Clockwork Motionless, 4EVE, Bodyslam, Taitosmith, MEYOU, Getsunova, Tilly Birds and Joey Boy, alongside cultural and contemporary showcases.

Meanwhile, DJs will shake the water play zone and EDM stage (from 16:00 to 22:00 Hrs.) with performances by 4 TEN, Nuttrix, Joy Lila, Jay Schema, Gail Werner, Spacemonkey, 22Bullets, Patcha, Hanky, Dome, Hugo, Brynna, Roxy June, Max, Xillix and Notxerius.

Each evening concludes with a drone light display featuring more than 1,200 drones.

Safety and security are top priorities, supported by seamless teamwork among public agencies, including the Tourist Police Bureau, and event partners to ensure a smooth, enjoyable experience for all. Attendees benefit from boosted on-site support, smart traffic flow, dedicated crowd guidance, helpful visitor hubs, and round-the-clock assistance throughout the venue.

Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2026 takes place from 11 to 15 April at Benchakitti Park, Bangkok. Admission is free. Visitors are encouraged to use public transport, with convenient access from BTS Asok station and MRT Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre station, both within walking distance of the park.

For more information, contact the TAT Call Centre at 1672 Travel Buddy, or follow the Amazing Thailand and Thailand Festival Facebook pages.

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Seven-foot statue unveiled honoring Magawa, award-winning rat who found more than 100 landmines in Cambodia

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A landmine-sniffing rat who won a gold medal for “life-saving devotion to duty” in Cambodia has been honored with a massive stone statue.

Magawa, a rat who gained fame in the country for sniffing out more than 100 mines (more than 1.5 million square feet) in his five-year career — more than any other rat in the country — retired in 2021 and died at age 8 in 2022.

The African giant pouched rat was trained by the Belgian charity APOPO to use his keen sense of smell to sniff out landmines and other explosives.

In Cambodia, more than 1 million people live and work in areas dotted with landmines, according to BBC News.

‘HERO DOG’ HONORED FOR COMFORTING COVENANT SCHOOL STUDENTS

Split of Magawa and his statue

Magawa, who died in 2022 after retiring, was honored last week with a statue. (Reuters/Cindy Liu; Carola Frentzen/picture alliance via Getty Images)

In 2020, Magawa received the PDSA Dickin medal for gallantry, which recognizes heroism in animals.

He was the first rat in the organization’s history going back to 1943 to win the award.

Statue of Magawa the minesweeping rat unveiled in Siem Reap Cambodia

Local politicians and APOPO employees unveiled a statue of Magawa, the mine-sweeping rat, in Siem Reap, Cambodia, April 3, 2026, to mark International Mine Awareness Day. Magawa detected over 100 landmines and unexploded ordnance during his lifetime before his death in 2022. (Carola Frentzen/Picture Alliance via Getty Images)

Magawa was able to walk over areas with land mines safely because of his light weight and would alert his handlers to a mine by scratching the surface, according to Smithsonian magazine. He would then receive a treat.

Magawa the mine detection rat sitting in a cage at APOPO Visitor Center

Magawa, a recently retired mine detection rat, sits in its cage at the APOPO Visitor Center in Siem Reap, Cambodia, June 10, 2021. (Cindy Liu/Reuters)

“During his career, Magawa found over 100 landmines and other explosives, making him APOPO’s most successful HeroRAT to date,” the organization said in 2022, while announcing his death. “His contribution allows communities in Cambodia to live, work and play without fear of losing life or limb.”

Cambodia has the highest rate of landmine amputees per capita of any country.

BELOVED PET MAKES DARING ESCAPE FROM ANIMAL HOSPITAL AFTER SURGERY AND TRAVELS 3 MILES TO GET HOME

An APOPO employee presenting a minesweeper rat in Siem Reap, Cambodia

An APOPO employee presents a minesweeper rat in Siem Reap, Cambodia, during the unveiling of a monument to Magawa, the famous mine-sweeping rat, April 3, 2026, marking International Mine Awareness Day. (Carola Frentzen/picture alliance via Getty Images)

APOPO added, “Every discovery he made reduced the risk of injury or death for the people of Cambodia.”

Magawa the landmine detection rat sitting in a tube inside its cage

Magawa, a recently retired landmine detection rat, sits in a tube in its cage at the APOPO Visitor Center in Siem Reap, Cambodia, June 10, 2021. (Cindy Liu/Reuters)

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The statue was unveiled in Siem Reap, Cambodia, April 3, just in time for International Day for Mine Awareness April 4.

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Sinocare Showcases Digital Innovation at the 93rd CMEF, Advancing Global Chronic Disease Management

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SHANGHAI, April 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — At the 93rd China International Medical Equipment Fair (CMEF), Sinocare presented its latest advancements under the theme “Leading Digital Healthcare For Global Health.” Bringing together cutting-edge technologies, integrated solutions, and strategic partnerships, the company demonstrated its ambition to redefine chronic disease management on a global scale.

Building a Full-Stack Digital Healthcare Ecosystem

Sinocare unveiled a comprehensive digital ecosystem spanning wearable devices, home monitoring, primary care, and clinical settings.

At the forefront is its continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) portfolio, featuring proprietary third-generation biosensor technology. These devices enable up to 15 days of real-time monitoring, powered by AI-driven analytics for predictive alerts, trend forecasting, and personalized interventions. As the first Chinese CGM brand certified under CE-MDR, Sinocare continues expanding across Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.

Complementing this is a “Personal Palm Lab” portfolio covering glucose, blood pressure, uric acid, lipids, and ketones. With AI-enabled data integration and automated risk alerts, these solutions enhance continuous, intelligent, and visualized home health management.

For primary care and clinical settings, Sinocare introduced integrated solutions including non-invasive diabetes risk screening (AGEscan), portable multi-function analyzers, and HbA1c systems. These platforms enable standardized testing in community clinics, pharmacies, and health centers, improving accessibility and supporting tiered healthcare delivery.

Strategic Partnerships for Ecosystem Expansion

During CMEF, Sinocare announced two major partnerships to strengthen its ecosystem approach:

  • Collaboration with JD Health to build a closed-loop model integrating testing, repurchase, and long-term management.
  • Partnership with Meituan Healthcare to expand access through omnichannel distribution and public health initiatives.

Together, these collaborations enhance Sinocare’s capabilities across products, data, services, and channels.

From China Leadership to Global Impact

Through expert presentations, Sinocare shared insights into full-cycle chronic disease management—from hospital to home, monitoring to intervention. Its CGM-driven data systems are helping shift diabetes care from experience-based to data-driven precision.

The company also introduced its MIT intensive intervention model, integrating medical nutrition, smart monitoring, and behavioral support to enable structured disease reversal pathways.

Today, Sinocare ranks among the world’s top four blood glucose meter companies, serving over 25 million users across 187 countries. Moving forward, it will continue leveraging AI and biosensing technologies to drive a new era of intelligent, precise, and lifecycle-based chronic disease management worldwide.

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SINGAPORE STRENGTHENS SARCOMA CARE THROUGH COORDINATED, MULTIDISCIPLINARY APPROACH

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NCIS leads multi-institutional effort to develop expert multidisciplinary guidance to improve sarcoma diagnosis, referrals and outcomes

SINGAPORE, April 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Singapore is strengthening its approach to sarcoma care, a rare group of bone and soft tissue cancers that disproportionately affect adolescents and young adults, through closer coordination across specialties and institutions, enhanced clinical guidance, and continued investment in multidisciplinary care.

Adjunct Associate Professor Chee Cheng Ean (leftmost), Executive Director of the National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS), and Professor Lim Soon Thye (rightmost), Chief Executive Officer of the National Cancer Centre Singapore, with the editors of Clinical Management of Bone and Soft Tissue Tumors at the book launch.
From left: Dr Choo Bok Ai, Associate Professor James Hallinan, Adjunct Associate Professor Mark Edward Puhaindran, Associate Professor Victor Lee Kwan Min, and Dr Angela Pang Shien Ling.
Adjunct Associate Professor Chee Cheng Ean (leftmost), Executive Director of the National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS), and Professor Lim Soon Thye (rightmost), Chief Executive Officer of the National Cancer Centre Singapore, with the editors of Clinical Management of Bone and Soft Tissue Tumors at the book launch. From left: Dr Choo Bok Ai, Associate Professor James Hallinan, Adjunct Associate Professor Mark Edward Puhaindran, Associate Professor Victor Lee Kwan Min, and Dr Angela Pang Shien Ling.

Sarcoma can arise almost anywhere in the body and often presents as a painless lump, resembling benign conditions. This frequently leads to delayed referrals and late‑stage diagnosis. While sarcoma accounts for fewer than one per cent of adult cancers, it represents approximately 21 per cent of paediatric cancers[1], affecting many adolescents and young adults.

To address these challenges, clinicians from across Singapore’s healthcare system – including the National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS), National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS) and international contributors – have been working together to strengthen early recognition, clarify referral pathways and enhance multidisciplinary management. These efforts bring together expertise in surgery, medical oncology, radiation oncology, pathology, imaging and allied health to support better care for patients. 

A rare cancer requiring highly complex, multidisciplinary care

With more than 100 subtypes, each requiring different diagnostic and treatment pathways, effective sarcoma care relies heavily on specialised expertise and coordinated multidisciplinary management.

When Mr Terence Goh was diagnosed with retroperitoneal pleomorphic sarcoma in 2023, he quickly learnt that sarcoma does not follow simple or predictable pathways, nor does its treatment. At 46, Mr Goh underwent neoadjuvant radiotherapy prior to surgery. This was followed by an exceptionally complex surgical journey involving multiple organs, prolonged operating time and intensive peri‑operative planning. His primary tumour, located deep within the retroperitoneum, required a highly complex operation involving multiple surgical teams. The surgery was prolonged and technically demanding, and he encountered significant challenges during both the peri‑operative and post‑operative periods. Radiotherapy further complicated the surgery, with surrounding tissues affected by scarring and inflammation. Subsequent developments required additional procedures, including the removal of a non‑functioning kidney compressed by the tumour.

Throughout his treatment journey, Mr Goh has been cared for at NCIS, where his case has required repeated multidisciplinary review, escalation of therapy and long‑term follow‑up care. Mr Goh underwent a complex chemotherapy protocol, targeted therapy in close coordination with the NUH’s Division of Nephrology to protect his sole kidney, and multiple surgeries involving both the chest and abdomen.

“I’m still fighting,” Mr Goh said. “What keeps me going is trusting the doctors and doing my best to live as normally as possible, for my family and for myself.”

A father of two young children, Mr Goh credits his wife and family for sustaining him through repeated hospitalisations, treatment side effects and prolonged recovery. Despite ongoing challenges, he remains deeply supportive of sarcoma research and has expressed openness for his case to contribute to advancing medical knowledge.

“I hope more people understand sarcoma better,” he said. “More research, more awareness and more treatment options can make a real difference.”

Strengthening early identification and referral

A key challenge in sarcoma care is early identification. Many clinicians encounter sarcoma infrequently, which can lead to uncertainty in recognising suspicious features and knowing when to escalate care.

Adjunct Professor Mark Edward Puhaindran, Chairman of the Medical Board at National University Hospital (NUH) and Senior Consultant in the Division of Surgical Oncology, NCIS, added: “In clinical practice, the rarity of sarcoma means that many doctors may see only a handful of cases in their careers, leading to uncertainty in recognising the condition, and deciding when to escalate or refer. Strengthening awareness and mapping out clearer decision pathways are therefore important steps towards improving outcomes.”

Developing expert multidisciplinary guidance

As part of this broader effort, clinicians from Singapore and international centres have come together to develop expert multidisciplinary guidance to support the diagnosis and management of sarcoma. 

This includes the development of a new clinical handbook, Clinical Management of Bone and Soft Tissue Tumours. The Singapore‑led effort brings together the collective expertise of 70 local and international contributors across specialties and aims to support healthcare professionals in navigating complex diagnostic pathways, identifying when specialist referral is required, and determining appropriate multimodal treatment approaches.

Associate Professor Victor Lee Kwan Min, Head and Senior Consultant, Department of Pathology, NUH, and Senior Consultant, NCIS, a lead editor of the handbook[2] said: “Sarcoma pathology is inherently complex. These tumours are rare, highly diverse and often difficult to characterise, which means accurate diagnosis depends on specialist expertise supported by appropriate ancillary tests. We hope this handbook helps clinicians better navigate these complexities and arrive at the most appropriate treatment plan for their patients.”

Among the handbook’s lead editors is Associate Professor James Hallinan, Senior Consultant, Department of Diagnostic Imaging, NUH, and Senior Consultant, Division of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Department of Diagnostic Imaging, NCIS, who said: “Imaging plays a pivotal role in the early detection and characterisation of sarcomas. The handbook outlines core principles, indications and limitations to guide clinicians on when further investigation or specialist referral is warranted. Timely and appropriate imaging can significantly influence treatment planning and outcomes.”

Developed by NCIS in partnership with institutes such as NCCS and international contributors, the handbook reflects Singapore’s integrated ecosystem, which brings together orthopaedic oncology, pathology, radiology, surgery, medical oncology and allied health expertise within a single coordinated network.

Beyond diagnosis: fighting cancer with purpose

Mr Hilman Basri was just 29 when he first noticed a growing lump on his foot in late 2015. Initially dismissed as a minor issue, the swelling grew so large that he had to buy shoes a size bigger, but cancer was the last thing on his mind.

A referral led him to NCIS where a biopsy confirmed a rare diagnosis: clear cell sarcoma, an uncommon and aggressive subtype of soft tissue sarcoma. Surgery followed in January 2016, including complex reconstruction and a skin graft taken from his arm.

Although Mr Basri continues to live with persistent disease and has required further complex surgeries and ongoing medical treatment over the years, his journey has been defined not by limitation, but by determination.

Under the care of Adjunct Professor Mark Edward Puhaindran, who is also a lead editor of the handbook, Mr Basri’s management extended beyond surgery to include long‑term follow‑up, rehabilitation, and continued treatment. Encouraged by Advanced Practice Nurse Ms Foong Li Li and his care team to choose resilience over resignation, Mr Basri reframed his outlook on life. He adopted a healthier lifestyle and turned to running as a way to cope, both physically and mentally, with the demands of living with cancer.

Since 2018, he has run the Run For Hope Marathon annually, often training and competing in between surgeries and medical treatments. Each race represents not recovery from cancer, but a powerful affirmation of what is still possible despite it.

“This is not a death sentence,” Mr Basri said. “It is not the end, but the beginning of a new chapter.”

[1] Source: Burningham Z, Hashibe M, Spector L, Schiffman JD. The epidemiology of sarcoma. Clin Sarcoma Res. 2012;2:14. https://doi.org/10.1186/2045-3329-2-14

[2] Editors of Clinical Management of Bone and Soft Tissue Tumours: Prof Mark Edward Puhaindran, Prof Victor Lee Kwan Min, Dr Thomas Patrick Decourcy Hallinan, Dr Angela Shien, Prof Bok Ai Choo

Chinese Glossary

National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS)

新加坡国立大学癌症中心

National University Hospital (NUH)

国立大学医院

National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS)

新加坡国立癌症中心

Adjunct Professor Mark Edward Puhaindran

Chairman, Medical Board, National University Hospital (NUH) &
Senior Consultant
Division of Surgical Oncology
National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS)

Mark Edward Puhaindran客座教授

国立大学医院医疗委员会主席 &

高级顾问医生

肿瘤外科

新加坡国立大学癌症中心

Associate Professor Victor Lee Kwan Min

Head & Senior Consultant

Department of Pathology
National University Hospital (NUH) &
Senior Consultant
National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS)

李光明医生副教授

主任兼高级顾问医生

病理科

国立大学医院(国大医院) &

高级顾问医生
新加坡国立大学癌症中心

Associate Professor James Hallinan

Senior Consultant

Department of Diagnostic Imaging

National University Hospital (NUH) &
Senior Consultant
Division of Musculoskeletal Oncology, Department of Diagnostic Imaging
National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS)

詹姆士•哈利南医生副教授

高级顾问医生

影像诊断科

国立大学医院(国大医院) &

高级顾问医生

肿瘤外科 (肌肉骨骼外科),
影像诊断科

新加坡国立大学癌症中心

Mr Hilman Basri

Hilman Basri先生

Mr Terence Goh

吴振扬先生

About the National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS)

The National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS) is an academic, national specialist centre for cancer under the National University Health System (NUHS), and is the only public cancer centre in Singapore that treats both paediatric and adult cancers in one facility.

As one of two national cancer centres in Singapore, NCIS (pronounced as “n-sis”) offers a broad spectrum of cancer care and management from screening, diagnosis and treatment to rehabilitation and survivorship, as well as palliative and long-term care. NCIS’ strength lies in the multi-disciplinary approach taken by our clinician scientists and clinician-investigators to develop a comprehensive and personalised plan for each cancer patient.

NCIS provides the full suite of specialised oncology and haematology services at the NUH Medical Centre at Kent Ridge, Singapore, including those by the NCIS Chemotherapy Centre, NCIS Radiotherapy Centre and NCIS Cellular Therapy Centre.

NCIS also offers cancer services at other hospitals in Singapore:

  • NCIS Cancer & Blood Clinic @ Ng Teng Fong General Hospital
  • NCIS Radiotherapy Centre @ Tan Tock Seng Hospital
  • NCIS Radiotherapy Clinic @ Khoo Teck Puat Hospital

To bring cancer care even closer to our patients, our NCIS on the Go programme delivers a range of cancer services at clinics within the community for their convenience. 

For more information, please visit www.ncis.com.sg

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Raiders star Kaeo Weekes seals 12-try thriller with outrageous solo effort to sink Rabbitohs

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Kaeo Weekes has produced a try-of-the-year contender as the Canberra Raiders held off a fast-finishing South Sydney Rabbitohs to post a thrilling 36-34 NRL win in Perth.

Simi Sasagi and Hudson Young combined brilliantly in the first half of Saturday’s match at Optus Stadium to lift the Raiders to a commanding 24-4 lead by the break.

WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Kaeo Weekes breaks free to score stunning try

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But three tries in nine minutes catapulted the Rabbitohs back into the contest, reducing the margin to just two points with 23 minutes remaining.

Canberra, riding a four-match losing streak and with their finals hopes already shaky, looked ripe for the picking.

Enter Weekes.

With Canberra camped on their own try-line at the start of their set, Weekes received the ball and embarked on a run that will dominate highlight reels for years to come.

Weekes broke through two tacklers within his own 10m, shook off another tackler a short time later before throwing a dummy to fool an opponent.

Still 70m away from scoring, Weekes slipped through a gap and outsprinted two chasers to touch down for a famous solo try.

A stunning Kaeo Weekes try helped the Raiders hang on for a thrilling win over the Rabbitohs.
A stunning Kaeo Weekes try helped the Raiders hang on for a thrilling win over the Rabbitohs. Credit: AAP

But there was another twist to come.

After Canberra made it 36-22 in the 72nd minute on the back of Ethan Strange’s try, the Rabbitohs surged back again.

Tries to Alex Johnston and Jack Wighton reduced the margin back to two points, and with 13 seconds remaining Latrell Mitchell launched a bomb in the corner.

Johnston rose the highest, but lost control of the ball as he spun through the air on the landing – with the try-line just one metre away.

The Rabbitohs slipped to a 3-2 record, and will be sweating on the fitness of fullback Jye Gray, who injured the AC joint in his left shoulder in the 13th minute after being crunched to the turf with two tacklers directly on top of him.

The first half was the Sasagi and Young show as the pair tore the Rabbitohs to shreds.

Raiders hooker Tom Starling set up the first try by dribbling a kick through Mitchell’s legs for a surging Young to collect and touch down in the 20th minute.

Canberra scored three tries in the final 12 minutes of the half to open up a commanding 24-4 lead by the break.

Savelio Tamale was suffering a case of the fumbles, dropping two high balls to put his team under all sorts of pressure.

But he made up for it in the 28th minute when Mitchell’s attempt to flick on a pass before even taking possession went horribly wrong.

Tamale picked up the loose ball at the halfway line before sprinting 50m towards the posts.

The final two tries of the half were set up by Sasagi.

He threw a dummy pass before sliding through two opponents to set up Weekes for an easy try.

The next one was a thing of beauty, with Sasagi setting off from inside his own 22m to surge Canberra forward.

Sasagi was brought down by an ankle tap, but immediately rolled up to give off the pass, received it back moments later, before offloading it to Young.

Things looked bleak for the Rabbitohs at halftime, but they came back with a bang in the second half to ensure the match went down to the wire.

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China Daily: Guizhou finds its voice through global storytellers

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GUIZHOU, China, April 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — A media tour highlights the southwestern province as a place where ancient culture, a pristine environment and modern narratives meet, Elliot Maldonado reports.

Clouds drift over Guizhou's Bawang Valley in a breathtaking aerial view.
Clouds drift over Guizhou’s Bawang Valley in a breathtaking aerial view.

In the mountains of Southwest China, the China Storyteller Partnerships launched an action-packed media tour for content creators and journalists from around the world, featuring an immersive itinerary balancing intangible cultural heritage with natural beauty.

Beginning in Tongren, Guizhou province, on March 27, the dozen members fortunate enough to be part of this profound opportunity — including me — experienced all aspects of the region, from Fanjing Mountain’s ancient history high above the clouds to love ballads sung in Lizhi Gorge, leaving us with stories to tell long after we had left.

Our journey began with a night in Zhaisha Dong village, where local women dressed in intricate clothes were clearly excited to welcome their guests.

“From the very beginning, the warmth and sincerity of the local welcome created a strong emotional connection with all members of the international delegation,” said Pakistani Zamir Assadi, of Lord Media Network in Islamabad.

The people from the Dong ethnic group had prepared a bamboo “dance” that serves as a fusion of tradition and tourism: a signature experience to welcome global visitors with open arms. The square erupted in cheers as we carefully hopped and leaped over the bamboo sticks moving on the ground.

Matching the rhythmic energy of our generous hosts, our tour group enthusiastically joined in traditional activities, and soon social lines and cultural divides became blurred as villagers, stage performers, and visitors joined hands to dance around a crackling bonfire.

The excitement continued as the tour bus wound through the mountains and pulled up to a basketball court set in a cave in Yanhe Tujia autonomous county for a game that would certainly test our skills.

Fortunately, for our less-than-coordinated team, the full-court game against a local side was just for fun, and we were rewarded for our efforts with the surreal experience of running, dribbling and shooting beneath a rock ceiling.

Exhausted, we came off the court to thunderous applause, the energy of the audience turning the moment into an unforgettable highlight.

“This feels to me like a once-in-a-lifetime memory. I have never seen anything like this before. The crowd was electric. The cave felt magical. I can’t wait to share this with everyone,” said Luke O’Farrell, a content creator from Ireland.

From there, our journey continued into the mist-shrouded Wuling Mountains, where we hiked through clouds to reach the sacred summit of Fanjing Mountain.

Here, at this UNESCO World Heritage site, gravity-defying formations like the “Mushroom Stone” left us awe-struck, standing as natural wonders formed over millennia.

Even more astonishing were the pair of temples perched high upon a stone pillar, leaving us asking how ancient monks could have ever built such structures, hauling timber and stone to the top of a seemingly unscalable peak before modern infrastructure made access possible.

Surrounded by shifting clouds hanging over deep valleys below, one could only be fascinated by how magical and otherworldly the heart of Guizhou really is.

The province’s current tourism theme, “Colorful Guizhou”, is part of the local authorities’ efforts to tell the world about the region’s multifaceted soul, and that it goes beyond ethnic diversity and fields of flowers.

Xie Nian, deputy head of the publicity department of the Communist Party of China’s Guizhou Provincial Committee, says that initiatives continue to enhance the province’s environment, cultural vitality and overall visitor experience.

That commitment was evident in Lizhi Gorge, where we boarded a pavilion-inspired boat and glided silently through emerald waters framed by towering cliffs. The water’s clarity and the pristine scenery were testament to the value placed on the environment and its ecology.

The tour concluded in Guiyang, the capital city of the province, to attend the opening ceremony of the 20th Guizhou Tourism Development Conference.

Surrounded by shops, with architectural elements inspired by the province’s diverse ethnic groups, it became apparent that Guizhou’s vision is forward-looking while integrating its cultural heritage.

If tourism is a form of storytelling, then Guizhou has found a voice that speaks clearly, honestly, and earnestly.

Many of our fondest memories of this trip — Guizhou’s unique natural wonders and the vibrant traditions of its ethnic groups — are the direct result of decadeslong environmental preservation, careful planning and a respect for heritage. Together, they reflect a province that is not only safeguarding its past but also planning for its future.

With cameras and phones full of epic experiences, our group of international storytellers returned home with a profound sense of connection and hundreds of reasons to say, “See you soon, Guizhou”, rather than “Goodbye”.

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DPC Dash – Domino’s Pizza China Delivers Strong Expansion in Q1 2026, Highlighting Scalable & Replicable Store Economics

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HONG KONG, April 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — DPC Dash Ltd – Domino’s Pizza China (“DPC Dash” or the “Company”, and together with its subsidiaries, the “Group”) (1405.HK), Domino’s exclusive master franchisee for the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong and Macau, continued to unlock the potential of China’s underpenetrated pizza market amid a complex and evolving consumption landscape in Q1 2026. Backed by its proven 4D strategy – Development, Delicious Pizza at Value, Delivery, and Digital – the Company delivered simultaneous progress in store expansion and operational quality, underscoring its robust business resilience and long-term growth potential.

In terms of store development, DPC Dash continued to follow a disciplined “go broader, go deeper” expansion strategy, strategically “deepening” penetration in existing cities to enhance market share and “broadening” its reach into new markets. According to DPC Dash’s First Quarter 2026 Investor Fact Sheet (“Investor Fact Sheet”), as of March 31, 2026, DPC Dash’s total store count reached 1,462 stores across 72 cities, representing a net increase of 147 stores and expansion into 12 new cities compared to the end of 2025. On January 24, DPC Dash opened its 1,405th store in Sanya, Hainan Province, marking a symbolic milestone as the store count matched the company’s stock ticker on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange (HKEX). As of March 31, the Company’s net new stores, stores under construction, and stores signed represent 65% of the full-year 2026 store opening target, with the pace of expansion far exceeding expectations. Non-Tier 1 cities have become the Company’s main growth engine, while Tier 1 cities continue to provide a resilient, high-quality revenue base with proven unit economics.

Newly opened stores in new markets continued to deliver strong performance. DPC Dash now holds all of the top 50 positions for first 30-day sales among Domino’s network of more than 22,100 stores globally, fully demonstrating the enormous potential of the Chinese market and the Company’s outstanding operational capabilities. In terms of store count, the Chinese Mainland market has remained the 3rd largest international market within Domino’s Pizza’s global system.

In terms of its Digital strategy, the Company has significantly broadened its consumer base while deepening its understanding of consumer preferences. In the first quarter of 2026, DPC Dash continued to drive product innovation, introducing new global flavors including the Year of the Horse New Year limited-edition Yak Beef Matsutake Ham Fortune Pizza, the classic upgraded Bolognaise Plus Pizza, the innovative Snowball Cheese Margherita Pizza, and the Quadruple Cheese Grand Slam Pizza catering to cheese lovers, while also iterating the product portfolio with two new rice and pasta dishes, offering customers greater choice and enhanced value. These new offerings resonated strongly with consumers, effectively supporting consumer preference and sales growth even in a soft consumption environment and highly competitive market.

In terms of marketing activities, the Company brought back the classic “Mega Week” promotion and extended the “Crazy Tuesday & Wednesday” offer through Thursday, further boosting customer visits and order volume via value-driven promotions. Meanwhile, the Company collaborated with the Dunhuang Museum to offer exclusive Chinese cultural and creative (C&C) products, integrating traditional cultural elements into the brand experience, further strengthening brand affinity and cultural identity.

The expansion of the Company’s loyalty program validates the success of its digital strategy. As of March 31, 2026, the loyalty program membership exceeded 38.8 million, compared to 27.2 million in the same period of 2025. Over the past 12 months, 17.6 million new customers placed their first orders with Domino’s Pizza China. The accumulated user data helps the Company to achieve personalized recommendations, precision marketing, and efficient operations, further enhancing user stickiness and repeat purchase rates.

With further strengthened brand equity and rising brand momentum, DPC Dash will continue to execute its 4D strategy, planning to add approximately 350 net new stores during the full year 2026 to further enhance market penetration.

DPC Dash has gained inclusion in major indices including the Hang Seng Composite Index and Stock Connect programs, demonstrating capital market recognition of the Company’s development prospects. With its strong execution track record, attractive store economics, and operational efficiency, the Company continues to deliver robust performance in a dynamic and competitive environment, creating sustainable, long-term value for shareholders.

About DPC Dash – Domino’s Pizza China

DPC Dash is Domino’s Pizza’s exclusive master franchisee in the Chinese mainland, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of China and the Macau Special Administrative Region of China. Domino’s Pizza, Inc., DPC Dash’s global franchisor, is one of the most widely-recognized global consumer brands and the world’s largest pizza company. Led by a seasoned and visionary management team, DPC Dash is a market leader that differentiates from competitors with, among others, a continually innovated and localized pizza-focused menu, unique expertise and leadership in delivery, technology focus and scalable and replicable store economic model. As of March 31, 2026, DPC Dash operates 1,462 stores in 72 cities in the Chinese Mainland.

For more information, please visit: www.dpcdash.com  

For official company announcements, please visit: www.hkexnews.hk

Contacts

Investor Relations:
DPC Dash Ltd
IR@dominos.com.cn

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Outraged passengers say parents ditched rowdy kids in coach while they upgraded to first class

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Outraged flight passengers are complaining this week that three rambunctious children were left unsupervised in coach while the parents sat comfortably in first class, according to a viral Reddit post.

“United is now offering free babysitting,” a passenger joked in the social media post, describing an apparently chaotic United Airlines flight from Houston to Fort Lauderdale.

The children — whose estimated ages were 7, 9 and 10 — sat in row 8, according to the post. The observer speculated that the parents were “upgraded to first class,” leaving the little ones behind as the adults relaxed on their own up front.

ACTOR AND FORMER ‘SNL’ STAR SLAMS MAJOR AIRLINE FOR HIS SEAT DOWNGRADE: ‘I PAID FOR FIRST CLASS’

“Thirty minutes before landing — the boys start pounding on each other — punches, choking each other, super-loud talking to the point of almost screaming. The little girl ends up with as much slack in her seat belt as possible,” the poster on Reddit wrote.

“Parents are upgraded, so [they] had a nice, relaxing flight while a select few of us kept an eye on the misbehaved children,” the United passenger suggested to others on Reddit.

Outraged flight passengers complain about unsupervised children

Outraged passengers recently complained that unsupervised young children (not pictured) were unruly in coach, while their parents sat in first class. (iStock)

“At what point should the flight attendant have stepped in and requested the parents realign to supervise their children?” the user added.

Fox News Digital reached out to United Airlines for comment.

FAMILY OUTRAGED AFTER MAJOR AIRLINE SEATS TODDLER APART FROM PARENTS, SPARKING VIRAL DEBATE

Several commenters on Reddit weighed in on the flight drama.

“There are two types of parents: Those who actually parent, and then those who are nothing more than bad camp counselors who want to clock out when their shift is done,” one person said.

Unsupervised child on plane

Passengers complained about the unruly children (not pictured) who reportedly sat apart from their parents, according to a social media post.  (iStock)

Another said, “If that happened, one parent has to stay with the children, and one child gets upgraded or nobody is upgraded. Some people can be so selfish.”

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“I would have gone up to first and — loudly — fetched the dad,” yet another person wrote. 

“Most children in a confined area are very uncomfortable. They want to run up and down the aisles.”

Others felt the angry passengers should have spoken up about the issue to flight attendants.

“Why didn’t someone just push the call button?” one Reddit user wrote.

Interior of airplane

“I think a parent should have stayed back with them because of their age,” an etiquette expert said.  (iStock)

“Just ring your call bell, and when the flight attendant arrives, point over to them and put your headphones back on,” another quipped.

Etiquette expert Jacqueline Whitmore of Florida told Fox News Digital that children under age 12 should generally not be left unsupervised on a flight.

“I think a parent should have stayed back with them because of their age,” she said. 

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Whitmore said, in these cases, a flight attendant should ask the children where the parents are, and a parent should be notified.

“That’s what flight attendants are there for — safety and to keep peace in the cabin,” she said.

She also noted that many children struggle to stay in their seats on long flights.

“Some children listen, some don’t,” she said. “Most children in a confined area are very uncomfortable. They want to run up and down the aisles. That’s just what children do.”

United Airlines

Some major carriers do not commit to providing fee-free guaranteed adjacent seating for families. (iStock)

The U.S. Department of Transportation encourages airlines to seat young children next to a parent or accompanying adult at no additional charge, according to the agency’s website.

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Federal regulations, however, do not currently require airlines to guarantee adjacent seating.

The department maintains an online dashboard that outlines which carriers commit to seating children age 13 and under next to an accompanying adult without an added fee.

Mother and two children looking out airplane window while seated on a commercial flight.

The U.S. Department of Transportation encourages airlines to have young children seated next to a parent or accompanying adult. (iStock)

Some major carriers do not commit to providing fee-free guaranteed adjacent seating, including Delta, Spirit, Allegiant and United, according to the DOT dashboard.

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Several airlines, however, state that they will seat children ages 13 and under next to an accompanying adult at no additional cost under certain conditions. 

Those carriers include Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Frontier, Hawaiian Airlines and JetBlue.

Kelly McGreal of Fox News Digital contributed reporting.

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From March to August: Yiwu’s Christmas Export Peak Season in Full Swing

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YIWU, China, April 11, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Despite the complexity and volatility of the global trade environment, consumers worldwide remain steadfast in their pursuit of festive experiences and an enhanced quality of life. In Yiwu, the peak season for Christmas exports kicked off as expected in March, driving the entire industry chain into full swing.

Product display images available on Yiwugo.com
Product display images available on Yiwugo.com

Yiwugo.com, the official website of the Yiwu Commodity Market, is the largest commodity wholesale market in the world. According to data from Yiwugo, search and order volumes for Christmas-related products, such as Christmas trees and Santa Claus decorations, have been steadily increasing since March. This seasonal surge is supported by long-established manufacturers with deep industry roots, many of whom have been operating for more than a decade, and some for over 20 years.

“Christmas Gift”: Leveraging Guangdong’s Craftsmanship to Fulfill Yiwu’s Global Orders

Lu Fei, the head of Christmas Gift, brings over 20 years of experience in the Christmas gift industry. To guarantee exceptional product quality, the company has established its production base in Guangdong, capitalizing on the region’s superior craftsmanship and robust supply chain resources. Committed to rigorous manufacturing standards, it steadfastly rejects low-quality mass production.

“Yiwugo has provided our company with substantial growth opportunities,” Lu Fei remarked. His store ranks among the platform’s Top 20 across all industries, with average daily traffic recently exceeding 5,000 visitors. Impressively, over 70% of online trial-order customers have been converted into long-term major offline clients.

Christmas Gift specializes in Christmas figurines, miniature Christmas trees, and nutcrackers, offering nearly 10,000 product varieties, many of which are protected by proprietary patents. The company maintains stringent quality control throughout the production processes: telescopic products undergo multiple tests to ensure seamless operation and durability, while illuminated items are crafted to meet the highest industry standards. At its Guangdong production base, Christmas trees alone undergo up to nine surface-finishing techniques, far exceeding basic coating requirements.

The company is dedicated to launching new product series every six months. This year, its newly introduced miniature Christmas tree display box, known for its elegant design, secured a single order of over 80,000 units from a US client. Since April, repeat orders from South American customers have remained strong, while several long-term partners have each recorded annual purchases surpassing RMB 1 million.

Shengfa: Craftsmanship as the Foundation of Quality Excellence

With over two decades of industry experience, Shengfa Industry and Trade Co., Ltd. has consistently placed product quality and R&D innovation at the core of its competitiveness. Its Christmas trees, LED fiber-optic trees, wreaths, rattan products, and related items are exported to markets across the Middle East, Europe, Japan, the ROK, South America and beyond.

Under the leadership of Chen Yongnian, the company remains firmly committed to maintaining the highest quality standards. All materials are 100% virgin, and the flocking on the artificial plants is dense and flawless, leaving no room for compromise or substandard workmanship. Before each batch departs the factory, every product undergoes a minimum of five comprehensive inspections. These stringent quality controls have allowed Shengfa to maintain its partnerships with several established European traders for over a decade. In Brazil, a major client operating more than 2,000 supermarkets records annual purchases exceeding RMB 3 million.

More than 80% of Shengfa’s core production team members are highly skilled technicians with over eight years of experience. The company regularly hosts training sessions to maintain its commitment to quality excellence through craftsmanship. Chen Yongnian noted that in 2025, the company forged partnerships with several prestigious clients through Yiwugo, reinforcing its confidence in expanding its presence on this platform.

With the Christmas procurement season now in full swing, clients from Brazil and other South American markets have begun placing early orders. As a result, the company’s production schedule is fully booked through August.

From Online Traffic to Offline Deals: Yiwugo Connects Merchants to the Global Market

In Yiwu, many Christmas goods manufacturers have followed a similar development path to that of Christmas Gift and Shengfa. As the official platform for Yiwu’s commodities market, Yiwugo is dedicated to integrating online and offline channels, wholesale and retail operations, and domestic and cross-border trade, thereby bridging global buyers and local producers. Through this model, the platform delivers end-to-end services from online inquiries and sample dispatch to offline transactions.

As the peak season gains momentum, a wide range of new Christmas products will be shipped by Yiwu merchants through Yiwugo to destinations around the world. Behind this global journey are factory workers, Yiwugo’s business operators, and quality controllers, whose dedication and professionalism help ensure the timely delivery of Christmas products to markets worldwide, reflecting the craftsmanship and warmth of Chinese-made goods.

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Airports could face a jet fuel crunch within 3 weeks as airlines weigh flight cancellations

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Lufthansa Airbus A340 passenger aircraft as seen landing at Eindhoven Airport EIN during a rare charter flight, arriving from Athens, Greece.

Nicholas Economou | Nurphoto | Getty Images

Europe’s airport industry has warned that jet fuel shortages could hit within three weeks, disrupting summer travel and “significantly” harming the European economy.

ACI Europe, which represents airports across the European Union, said on Thursday that a supply crunch would derail airport operations and air connectivity.

In a letter to the EU Commissioner for Sustainable Transport and Tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas, shared with CNBC, the industry body warned of the “harsh economic impacts” fuel shortages would have on the European economy.

“At this stage, we understand that if the passage through the Strait of Hormuz does not resume in any significant and stable way within the next three weeks, systemic jet fuel shortage is set to become a reality for the EU,” the letter said.

ACI Europe said potential shortages are particularly worrisome ahead of the “peak summer season”, when many EU member states rely on the economic boost from increased air travel. Air connectivity generates 851 billion euros (nearly $1 trillion) in GDP for European economies and supports 14 million jobs, according to the group.

“As a result, it is essential that the EU prioritizes the availability and stable supply of jet fuel as part of its response to the oil and energy crisis triggered by the conflict in the Middle East,” it added.

Jet fuel supply a bigger concern for Asian carriers, ceasefire offers short-term relief: IATA

The U.S. and Israel’s war with Iran, which began on February 28, brought traffic through the Strait of Hormuz to an effective halt, sending oil prices above $100 a barrel and pushing energy costs higher.

Airlines were immediately impacted by soaring jet fuel prices, up 103% month-on-month as of March, according to the International Air Transport Association.

The price of jet fuel in the U.S. roughly doubled, increasing from $2.50 a gallon on Feb. 27 to $4.88 a gallon on April 2.

The U.S. reached a two-week ceasefire agreement with Iran on Tuesday in exchange for Tehran allowing vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz, but the vital passageway remains effectively closed. Around 20% of the world’s oil passed through the Strait before the war started.

U.S. West Texas Intermediate crude was last up 0.4% to $98.27 per barrel after passing $100 earlier in the session, while Brent crude was nearly flat at $96.02 per barrel.

Airlines are implementing several measures to address rising jet fuel costs. Lufthansa’s CEO Carsten Spohr told employees last week that the German carrier is forming teams to create contingency plans due to the Middle East war. This could include grounding some of its aircraft.

Scandinavian airline SAS is cancelling 1,000 flights in April, while Ryanair’s CEO Michael O’Leary said the Irish carrier would have to look at cancelling some flights and reducing capacity over the summer if the fuel shortage continues.

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