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Pilot claims Google Earth image may show Amelia Earhart’s missing plane on Pacific island reef

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A pilot with decades of experience flying thinks he may have found an image of Amelia Earhart’s lost plane via Google Earth.

Justin Myers told Popular Mechanics recently he began looking through satellite images of Nikumaroro Island in the Pacific after watching a documentary on her final flight.

“To be totally honest, my interest started after watching a documentary on the National Geographic Channel. It was the next day when curiosity about Nikumaroro Island took me to looking on Google Earth.”

When first looking at images of Nikumaroro, an uninhabited coral atoll in the Pacific, Myers said he wasn’t trying to find the Lockheed Electra 10E. “I was just putting myself in Amelia and [her navigator] Fred’s shoes.”

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Amelia Earhart in the cockpit

Amelia Earhart in the cockpit (Getty)

But then he tried to imagine, as a pilot, “where I would have force landed a light twin aircraft in their position, lost and low on fuel.”

Once he zoomed into an area where he thought they might have tried to land, he noticed a “dark-coloured, perfectly straight object” that measured approximately 39 feet, the same as Earhart’s plane.

“I used the measuring tool on Google Earth and to my surprise and mild little shiver it measured approximately 39 ft,” he wrote in a blog post.

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“It looked man-made,” he told Popular Mechanics. “It looked like a section of aircraft fuselage. That was remarkable by itself, let alone the possibility it was Electra 10E NR16020, even though the measurements looked the same.”

Amelia Earhart with her navigator

Pilot Amelia Earhart and her navigator, Fred Noonan, with a map of the Pacific that shows the planned route of their last flight. (Getty)

Earhart was attempting to become the first woman to circumnavigate the globe in 1937 when she and her navigator lost radio contact on July 2 while attempting to land on Howland Island in the Pacific, north of Nikumaroro.

Neither the pair nor their plane have been found, leaving nearly a century of professional and amateur investigators attempting to figure out what happened to them.

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Myers said as he continued to look at the satellite imagery, he thought he saw more plane debris, thinking he might have gotten lucky with his sighting.

“There was an element of luck in spotting that aircraft debris, as Mother Nature had revealed what had been buried on the reef for a long time,” he said. “I managed to catch some photos before being covered over again by passing weather systems.”

Myers wrote in his blog that he attempted to contact several agencies with his findings but was largely ignored.

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The National Transportation Safety Board said the island wasn’t its jurisdiction, so he filed a report with the Australian Transport Safety Bureau but never heard anything back.

Amelia Earhart's plane

Earhart’s Lockheed Electra in March 1937 (Getty)

He also contacted Purdue University in California but never heard anything, and he contacted an expedition company in the state but said he hadn’t heard back from them in a while.

Myers is hardly the first person to believe he figured out the mystery of the aviators’ disappearance.

Last year, Purdue announced its own expedition to research the Taraia Object, a visual anomaly also on Nikumaroro that some think could be the plane’s wreckage.

The International Group for Historic Aircraft Recovery also believes that Nikumaroro is where Earhart went down, based on a huge body of evidence and a dozen visits to the island between 1989 and 2019, according to Archaeologychannel.org. 

Tony Romeo, a former Air Force intelligence officer and CEO of Deep Sea Vision, made news a couple of years ago after sonar images from a 2023 expedition showed what looked like a plane on the seafloor near Howland.

Google Earth imagery of Nikumaroro Island

Google Maps imagery of Nikumaroro Island (Google Maps)

But it was soon discovered to just be a natural rock formation with plane-like features.

Still, that hasn’t deterred Myers in his findings.

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“The bottom line is, from my interests from a child in vintage aircraft and air crash investigation, I can say that is what was once a 12-metre, 2-engine vintage aircraft,” he told Popular Mechanics, adding the caveat that he’s not sure it’s Earhart’s.

And even if it’s not the famed pilot’s plane, “then it’s the answer to another mystery that has never been answered. This finding could answer some questions to someone who disappeared many years ago.”

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Hong Kong Arts Centre Unveils Collect Hong Kong Art Fair 2026

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A Highlight of Art March, Bringing Hong Kong’s Artistic Charm to the Global Stage

Debuting Four Curated Zones to Showcase Artworks and Narrate Hong Kong’s Stories Across Eras

HONG KONG, March 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Collect Hong Kong Art Fair 2026 (Collect Hong Kong), presented by the Hong Kong Arts Centre (HKAC) and sponsored by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, spotlights local artists by exhibiting shortlisted works from both renowned and emerging talents. The fair aims to increase public passion for the arts and encourage art collection. This year, HKAC announced that Collect Hong Kong will become a regular event, continuing to support the development of Hong Kong’s art scene. Held from 21 to 29 March 2026 at HKAC’s Pao Galleries, Diana Cheung Experimental Gallery, Jockey Club Atrium and The Showcase, the fair features over 500 artworks and stands as one of the most anticipated highlights of Hong Kong’s Art March. HKAC hosted the opening ceremony of Collect Hong Kong on 20 March, with distinguished guests in attendance.

Collect Hong Kong Art Fair 2026 open.
Collect Hong Kong Art Fair 2026 open.

Collectors’ Choice Exhibition Zone
Collectors’ Choice Exhibition Zone

Mr Peter Lau, Chairman of the Board of Governors of the HKAC, stated in his opening speech, “I would like to express our gratitude to the local artists for their exceptional support of Collect Hong Kong this year, resulting in a record number of submissions that have doubled compared to last year. Additionally, we aim to promote art appreciation and collection culture, expand the community of local art collectors, refine the art ecosystem and build a healthy and sustainable development environment. The HKAC is committed to engaging with the community, facilitating creative and cultural dialogue, and integrating art into people’s daily lives. Collect Hong Kong plays a pivotal role in realising this vision. Next year, the HKAC will mark its 50th anniversary, and we will continue our efforts to make art an essential bond of the city’s culture.”

Collect Hong Kong features over 500 artworks by more than 280 local artists, including renowned artists as well as a host of promising emerging talents.
Collect Hong Kong features over 500 artworks by more than 280 local artists, including renowned artists as well as a host of promising emerging talents.

An Expanded Art Showcase, Highlighting the Rich Diversity of Hong Kong’s Art Scene

Collect Hong Kong features over 500 artworks by more than 280 local artists, including renowned artists as well as a host of promising emerging talents. The exhibited works span a wide range of mediums, including paintings, ceramics, photography, 3D printing, sculpture, installation art and mixed media, a testament to the wealth of hidden talent and abundant creativity in Hong Kong’s local art community. The growing attention and participation from artists and collectors further underscore the diversity and vitality of Hong Kong art.

Debuting Four Curated Zones for Cross-Era Artworks, Telling Hong Kong’s Intergenerational Art and Cultural Stories in a Groundbreaking Way

This year, the HKAC has invited esteemed art consultant Mr Gary Mok to curate the fair, which debuts four themed exhibition zones: Collectors’ Choice, Esteemed Circle, Jury’s Choice and Collective Horizons, presenting local art masterpieces in an innovative format. Collectors’ Choice showcases treasured pieces and masterworks from prominent collectors, guiding audiences to trace the roots of Hong Kong art. This section features renowned artists Ding Yang Yong, Antonio Mak Hin Yeung, and Fan Ho, all of whom are highly esteemed and rare. Esteemed Circle features works by veteran artists from the past 70 to 80 years alongside emerging creators from contemporary galleries, highlighting the artistic attainments and creativity of different eras. This includes Hong Ko, Mok Yat San, Angela Hui, Michelle Fung, emphasising their artistic accomplishments and creative expressions. Jury’s Choice spotlights outstanding artworks carefully selected by curators and the jury panel from shortlisted open-call entries, celebrating the creative power of the new generation. Collective Horizons presents forward-looking shortlisted open-call works through the perspective of a professional jury, delivering an immersive artistic experience. Commenting on the quality of this year’s works, Mr Gary Mok said: “Collect Hong Kong represents the cherishing and collection of Hong Kong art. It is not merely a gathering of artworks, but a focus on the Hong Kong spirit and the zeitgeist that artists infuse into their creations. Genuine art enthusiasts support artistic creation through their actions, showing respect and encouragement for the artists. This also plays a vital role in driving the development of art. Collect Hong Kong is committed to providing exhibition spaces and trading opportunities to foster a healthy cycle in Hong Kong’s art ecosystem. As local art gains increasing recognition, more people will pay attention to and invest in Hong Kong art in the future, giving greater voice to local art and promoting its global understanding and development. We hope Collect Hong Kong will become a must-visit fair during Hong Kong’s Art March, attracting more artists to exhibit and more audiences to purchase Hong Kong artworks.”

The online platform launched last year will continue to connect global art collectors with local artists in 2026, facilitating cross-cultural and intergenerational exchange and collaboration, sustaining multi-angle cultural dialogue and uniting local strength, solidifying the HKAC position as a key driver of Hong Kong’s art ecosystem.

Hong Kong Arts Centre: Facebook and Instagram
Collect Hong Kong: Facebook and Instagram
Official Website: https://hkac-art-shop.myshopify.com/

The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support for Collect Hong Kong Art Fair 2026 only and is not involved in the organisation of the event. Any opinions, research findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in this publication/event (or by members of the project team under the grantee) are those of the implementing organisation of the project only and do not represent the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

About the Hong Kong Arts Centre:

Since 1977, the Hong Kong Arts Centre (HKAC) has been a platform for nurturing and supporting artists, and infusing art into everyday life. Its unique arts and educational programmes aim to make the arts accessible for all. The HKAC believes in the transformational power of art for people from all walks of life. Established for more than four decades, the HKAC endeavours to bring arts to the people of Hong Kong by presenting programmes in diverse art disciplines, such as visual arts, performing arts, moving images, media arts, comics, animation, arts education, lecture forum, public art, art festival and community art. With the vision of inspiring creativity in the local and international art community, HKAC focuses on four strategic areas: Leading Art Programmes, Nurturing Future Generations, Fostering Exceptional Art Education, Multi-Functional Building for Art – Strategic Location in Wan Chai to create versatile exhibition spaces that accommodate a diversity of art forms and styles.

The HKAC aspires to engage everyone in the community to become an active participant in the arts – as an enthusiast, an artist or a patron. Let’s continue to embrace ‘Art for Passion, Art for Life, Art for All’, and share the inspiration.

Official website: hkac.org.hk | Facebook: Hong Kong Arts Centre | Instagram: @hongkongartscentre

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Quality Protein No Longer a Luxury? Angel Yeast Shows How at FIC 2026

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SHANGHAI, March 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Angel Yeast (SH600298) showcased its latest yeast protein R&D achievements and progress in global applications at FIC 2026 from March 17-19, 2026, reaffirming its commitment to making high-quality protein accessible to everyone. As a key barometer for the food industry, this year’s show also highlighted how the alternative protein sector is entering a more pragmatic phase focused on technological cost reduction, taste and texture optimization, and supply chain reliability.

New Products and Technology Advances Address Market Needs

During the exhibition, Angel Yeast launched two new yeast protein products: AngeoPro™ Yeast Protein Hi90-A and Yeast Protein S80-A. Hi90-A delivers a high protein content of 88%, offering a smooth mouthfeel and neutral flavor profile ideal for the demanding requirements of premium sports nutrition and specialized dietary groups, while S80-A offers complete water solubility, targeting emerging and fast-growing segments such as ready-to-drink (RTD) beverages and protein-fortified waters.

“The launch of these two new products underscores Angel’s ongoing advances in fermentation technology and advanced enzymatic hydrolysis,” said Li Ku, General Manager of Angel’s Protein Nutrition and Flavoring Technology Center. “We are also developing functional yeast proteins with high gelation and high leucine content to further expand applications across a range of sectors, including meat products, sports nutrition, and elderly nutrition. Our goal is to make protein supplementation a more convenient and enjoyable part of daily consumption.”

Accelerating Global Footprint to Make Quality Protein Affordable for All

Angel Yeast is solidifying its role as a key driver in the global yeast protein industry. The company continues to increase its investment in R&D and collaborate with international research organizations on application studies related to gut health and sports nutrition. The company will host the Second International Symposium on Yeast Protein Science and Technology this April, where it plans to release an industry white paper to foster consensus and encourage knowledge sharing. On the production front, Angel Yeast commissioned a new yeast protein production line at its Baiyang Biotechnology Park in Yichang last November, adding an annual production capacity exceeding 10,000 tons. To meet surging market demand, the company has already planned further expansion to enhance supply capabilities.

The company also announced a significant milestone in market development. “When the foam on your coffee becomes a ‘protein boost,’ we’ve truly lowered the barrier to healthy nutrition,” noted Jo Chang, Head of the Yeast Protein Division within Angel Yeast’s International Business Center. “In January 2026, Starbucks India, in collaboration with local nutrition brand SuperYou, launched a protein cold foam based on Angel’s AngeoPro yeast protein. This innovative ‘protein foam’ is offered as a customizable topping for beverages like Cold Brew, Iced Americano, or Frappuccino, allowing consumers to easily add an extra 11 to 18 grams of protein per serving.”

Looking ahead, Angel will continue to expand its capabilities in the yeast protein field. By working with global stakeholders, the company aims to provide consumers with healthier, more sustainable nutritional choices and support the transition of the global food industry toward a greener, more efficient, and more inclusive future.

Quality Protein No Longer a Luxury? Angel Yeast Shows How at FIC 2026
Quality Protein No Longer a Luxury? Angel Yeast Shows How at FIC 2026

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Sino Jet’s Subsidiary Zhejiang Low-Altitude Mobility Company Completes Inaugural Flight

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HONG KONG, March 19, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Recently, a helicopter took off from ONE53, the landmark at the heart of Hangzhou’s Qianjiang New City, and landed smoothly at the Fuchun Resort approximately 10 minutes later. This marks the successful completion of the inaugural flight by Sino Jet’s Zhejiang Low-Altitude Mobility Company, signifying that the Group’s strategic deployment in the low-altitude economy has progressed from qualification preparation to the stage of substantive operations.

Strategic Positioning: Low-Altitude Economy Moves from Policy Tailwinds to Commercial Implementation

Since the “low-altitude economy” was first written into China’s Government Work Report in 2024 and designated as a strategic emerging industry, supportive policies have been rolled out across multiple regions in China, creating historic growth opportunities for the sector. Against this backdrop, what ultimately determines how far an enterprise can go is not merely the policy tailwinds themselves, but whether it has the capability to translate these opportunities into a sustainable commercial model.

The successful inaugural low-altitude flight by Sino Jet serves as a compelling validation of this proposition. As the largest business aviation company in the Asia-Pacific region, Sino Jet holds the highest global safety standard certification in business aviation—IS-BAO Stage 3. The company operates a fleet of nearly 50 aircraft, with a service network spanning worldwide. The newly launched Zhejiang Low-Altitude Mobility Company represents a strategic extension of Sino Jet’s 15 years of expertise in premium aviation operations, systematically applying its operational experience and safety standards to the low-altitude mobility sector.

In January 2026, the company was officially granted the CCAR Part 135 Air Operator Certificate and Operating License by the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC), becoming the first general aviation enterprise in East China to complete the joint certification process. These qualifications represent not only the regulatory threshold for conducting commercial passenger operations, but also serve as a strong endorsement of Sino Jet’s core capabilities in building competitive barriers within the low-altitude economy sector.

Scenario Definition: Shaping Product Direction Around the Needs of High-End Clientele

As the low-altitude economy moves from concept to practical implementation, the market’s imagination for low-altitude mobility continues to expand. The inaugural “ONE53–Fuchun Resort” route operated by Sino Jet is specifically designed to address the core demand of high-net-worth individuals for efficient travel in real-world use cases.

The journey, which previously required approximately 90 minutes by road, can now be completed in just 10 minutes by air. This route, connecting the urban core of Hangzhou with a high-end resort destination, truly enables efficient and seamless connectivity between the two locations.

This “scenario-driven product definition” approach stems from Sino Jet’s 15 years of experience in business aviation. Time efficiency and service excellence have always been the core priorities of high-end clientele. Extending these principles into the low-altitude mobility sector means establishing a user-value-centered commercialization pathway from the outset—responding to diverse needs across different scenarios, whether for sightseeing experiences or time-sensitive travel.

Industrial Depth: Empowering the Low-Altitude Economy with Business Aviation Expertise

The true challenge of the low-altitude economy lies not merely in getting aircraft off the ground, but in ensuring operations that are safe, efficient, and sustainable. This is precisely where Sino Jet’s core strengths come into play.

Building on 15 years of global operational experience, Sino Jet has established a safety management system aligned with international standards, along with robust asset management capabilities and a digitalized service network. Anchored in this long-term, rigorously validated framework, the company is now providing a replicable management model for the low-altitude mobility sector—from crew qualification standards and operational control procedures to customer service touchpoints and emergency response capabilities across the entire operational chain.

In terms of capacity planning, Sino Jet signed a firm purchase agreement in 2025 with Aerofugia for 50 AE200 electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, representing the largest publicly disclosed firm commercial eVTOL order in China to date. This forward-looking deployment lays a solid capacity foundation for the Group’s future scaled operations in the urban air mobility sector.

Future Vision: Building an Integrated Three-Dimensional Mobility Network

Looking ahead, Sino Jet plans to replicate its proven three-dimensional mobility model across key cities in central and western China, the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area, and the Hainan Free Trade Port. By integrating operational base resources across China, the Group aims to develop diversified low-altitude mobility scenarios tailored to different regional needs.

The strategic objective is clear: to bridge the “last 100 kilometers” of three-dimensional mobility and establish a low-altitude transportation network connecting China’s major urban clusters—making low-altitude travel a new norm for premium mobility.

As the low-altitude economy evolves from a policy buzzword into tangible industrial reality, Sino Jet has chosen a path anchored in safety, guided by client demand, and driven by sound commercial logic. The success of this inaugural flight stands as a testament to that strategic vision.

For queries please contact:
Sino Jet Marketing Department
Telephone: (+852) 2588 7007 / (+86 10) 8416 2637
Email: marketing@sinojet.org / marketing@sinojet.org.cn
Website: http://www.sinojet.org/

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Samyang Corp. Introduces A High-Purity Crystalline Soluble Fiber ‘Kestose’ at Future Food-Tech San Francisco 2026

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– Showcased features and application cases of ‘Crystalline Kestose,’ a soluble fiber containing over 99% fructooligosaccharides

– Demonstrated sugar reduction and fiber fortification benefits, offering tasting samples of sports drink mix with Crystalline Kestose [1]

SEOUL, South Korea, March 20, 2026  /PRNewswire/ — Samyang corp. announced that it participated in Future Food-Tech San Francisco 2026 (FFT 2026), held on March 19–20 in San Francisco, California, where it unveiled its high-purity crystalline soluble fiber, Kestose, for the first time on the global stage.

Samyang corp. presenting its high-purity crystalline soluble fiber, Kestose at Future Food-Tech 2026
Samyang corp. presenting its high-purity crystalline soluble fiber, Kestose at Future Food-Tech 2026

FFT 2026 is a leading international conference that brings together global food companies, startups, investors, and research institutions to explore innovative technologies and emerging trends in the food industry. This year’s event attracted more than 1,500 industry professionals from over 200 companies across 40 countries.

At the conference, Samyang introduced its proprietary high-purity crystalline soluble fiber, Kestose, through a technical presentation. Dr. Hyerim Kim, Principal Researcher at Samyang corp., presented key insights on global dietary fiber trends, as well as the physico-chemical properties, functional benefits, and category-specific application cases of Crystalline Kestose.

Kestose is a type of fructooligosaccharide (FOS), a prebiotic ingredient that serves as a nutrient source for beneficial gut bacteria.[1]

Unlike conventional liquid or powder-type dietary fiber ingredients, Kestose is distinguished by its crystalline form. Developed based on Samyang’s proprietary technology, it exhibits low hygroscopicity, minimizing clumping, and offers fast dissolution. These physical properties enable easy application across a wide range of products, including confectionery and powdered beverages.

Crystalline Kestose also offers differentiated nutritional benefits. Containing over 99% fructooligosaccharides, it supports dietary fiber intake while delivering approximately 30% of the sweetness of sugar, with sugar content as low as around 1%.[1]

This enables manufacturers to achieve both sugar reduction and fiber fortification without compromising sweetness. As a result, Crystalline Kestose is well-suited for use in high-value, nutrition-focused products such as snack bars, yogurt, protein beverages, and dietary supplements.

During the conference, Samyang corp. also offered tasting samples of sports drink mix with Crystalline Kestose, engaging with global food companies and industry stakeholders to explore potential applications and collaboration opportunities.

“FFT 2026 marked the first global introduction of our high-purity crystalline soluble fiber, Kestose,” said Jung-Sook Han, Head of Samyang corporation’s Food R&D Center. “We will continue to strengthen our R&D capabilities in functional food ingredients, expand partnerships with global food companies, and enhance our competitiveness in the global market.”

Meanwhile, Samyang corp. is accelerating its expansion into the global specialty ingredients market by strengthening R&D in products such as the alternative sweetener allulose and functional dietary fiber resistant dextrin.

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HKSH Cancer Centre’s Precision Targeting Technologies Leading the Evolution of “Hypofractionation”

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Asia’s First Study: 5 Sessions of Proton Therapy to Control Early-Stage Prostate Cancer

HONG KONG, March 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — HKSH Medical Group (HKSH) today announced the results of Asia’s first clinical study on early-stage prostate cancer patients receiving five-session of proton therapy.* The results show significant efficacy, with a marked decline in prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels and only mild side effects. Proton therapy for prostate cancer generally requires about 30 treatment sessions over 8 to 9 weeks. Since the launch of proton therapy service in 2023, HKSH Cancer Centre has advanced the precision of treatment to achieve “hypofractionation”, drastically reducing the number of treatment session by 80%. For early-stage prostate cancer, there is an option of 5 sessions of proton therapy within 2 to 3 weeks to achieve disease control. The unique physical properties of proton beam can precisely target the tumour with minimal damage to nearby vital organs such as the bladder and bowel, thereby helping to enhance patients’ quality of life throughout their cancer journey.

(From left) Dr. Ben YU, Head of Medical Physics Department of HKSH, Dr. Joseph CHAN, Chief Medical Officer, HKSH Medical Group and Deputy Medical Superintendent, Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital, Mr. Wyman LI, Chief Operating Officer, HKSH Medical Group and Director, Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital, Dr. Darren POON, Associate Director, HKSH Comprehensive Oncology Centre announced the data from Asia’s first MRI-guided five-session proton therapy study for early-stage prostate cancer patients.
(From left) Dr. Ben YU, Head of Medical Physics Department of HKSH, Dr. Joseph CHAN, Chief Medical Officer, HKSH Medical Group and Deputy Medical Superintendent, Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital, Mr. Wyman LI, Chief Operating Officer, HKSH Medical Group and Director, Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital, Dr. Darren POON, Associate Director, HKSH Comprehensive Oncology Centre announced the data from Asia’s first MRI-guided five-session proton therapy study for early-stage prostate cancer patients.

Mr. Wyman LI, Chief Operating Officer of HKSH Medical Group and Director of Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital, remarked, “The integration of proton therapy and targeting technologies is the cornerstone to the successful implementation of hypofractionation. This achievement also reflects HKSH’s ongoing commitment to advancing clinical application, enabling cancer patients to benefit from even more advanced precision treatments with less side effects. Taking a further leap forward, the HKSH research team is now exploring the feasibility of further reducing treatment of early-stage prostate cancer using proton therapy from 5 to 2 sessions. HKSH has also introduced the world’s first Photon-Counting CT Simulation System (PCCT-Sim) with advanced simulation capabilities which can be applied in prostate cancer proton therapy planning for even more effective disease control.”

Asia’s First Study: Five Sessions of Proton Therapy to Target Prostate Tumours

Prostate cancer predominantly affects older adults, but risk does not simply rise with age, the incidence is highest among those aged 65–74.  Local data in 2023 shows that new cases in this age group account for about half of all diagnoses, underscoring the urgent need for more effective cancer management strategies. To assess the clinical efficacy of five-session proton therapy, HKSH commenced a clinical study to analyse the data of 94 early-stage prostate cancer patients who received Stereotactic Body Proton Therapy between June 2024 and January 2026. The report covers a median follow-up of 10.93 months (range: 0.9 to 25.5 months). After five sessions of proton therapy, the patients’ PSA levels dropped sharply from a baseline of 12.57 ng/mL (±13.59 ng/mL) to 1.13 ng/mL (±2.07 ng/mL) three months post-treatment, maintaining high efficacy despite fewer treatment sessions.

Dr. Darren POON, Associate Director of HKSH Comprehensive Oncology Centre and Specialist in Clinical Oncology, who led this study explained that due to the high concentration of proton beams and precise delivery to the target area striking the tumour, the majority of patients in the study did not experience adverse reactions of Grade ≥2 toxicities after treatment. Patient-Reported Outcome Measures (PROMs) indicated favorable urinary and bowel function scores three months post-treatment, suggesting minimal impact on quality of life. The most common adverse reactions were related to the urinary system. During the acute phase, 33.0% (31/94) of patients experienced relatively mild Grade 1 dysuria i.e. having difficulty in urination, which subsequently improved. This study is still ongoing to gather long-term follow-up data. As Asia’s first study on magnetic resonance imaging-guided five-session proton therapy, it further establishes HKSH’s leading position in the field of proton therapy within the region and provides an important foundation for developing more precise and safer treatment options across Asia in the future.

Hypofractionation: Precision Planning and Targeting

Dr. POON pointed out that the core technologies behind “hypofractionation”: “For every case and treatment, our proton therapy team would utilise Intensity Modulated Proton Therapy (IMPT) with pencil-beam scanning. Before treatment, the tumour’s shape and size are delineated, and the radiation intensity of each beam at different positions within the tumour is precisely calculated. Patients would also undergo MRI and CT scans before treatment, which are cross-referenced with the proton therapy system’s real-time X-ray imaging to ensure accurate targeting.” To further protect nearby organs, doctors may use rectal spacers to increase rectum-prostate distance. Bladder volume scans are also performed to assess bladder filling before each treatment session, aiding in accurate tumour targeting to minimise unnecessary radiation exposure.

Hypofractionation: Overcoming Tumour Movement, Minimising Side Effects

Proton beam accurately targeting the tumour according to treatment plan can greatly reduce side effects. However, prostate tumours may shift slightly due to soft-tissue movement. Even though these movements are slight, HKSH strives to minimise any deviation to the smallest possible range, further reducing the risk of side effects. Multiple techniques are applied clinically, including implanting fiducial markers within the prostate to track the tumour’s position real-time, ensuring precise radiation delivery to the tumour.

The number of treatment sessions and potential side effects are primary factors for cancer patients when considering radiotherapy. The promising clinical results of HKSH’s five-session proton therapy provide strong reassurance to patients, allowing greater flexibility for personalised treatment plans. Building on this, HKSH has already commenced a clinical study on two-session proton therapy. This study will enroll 35 patients with histologically diagnosed low-to-intermediate risk localised prostate cancer and will follow them for five years. The aim is to investigate both the short-term and long-term safety and efficacy of the treatment. These findings will help doctors and patients make more informed decisions about “hypofractionation”.

HKSH firmly believes that talent and technology are equally important. HKSH collaborated with the National Cancer Centre to organise the ‘Proton Therapy Joint Training Course’ in June 2025 and subsequently commenced the 10-month ‘HKSH Cancer Centre Proton Therapy Training Programme’. In November 2025, HKSH hosted the Annual Conference of the Asia-Oceania Particle Therapy Co-operative Group (PTCOG-AO) as a platform to integrate clinical expertise with a global perspective. HKSH aims to establish a premier platform for continuous learning and advancement in the Asia-Pacific region, elevating the overall standard of proton therapy to benefit more patients.

Patient Sharing – Mr. Li

Mr. Li, a 69-year-old retired teacher, discovered elevated PSA levels (>12 ng/mL) and an enlarged prostate during a routine checkup in December 2024, despite no symptoms. The checkup also revealed coronary artery blockage, requiring an angioplasty procedure and anticoagulant medication in March 2025, delaying prostate cancer treatment. In September 2025, Mr. Li underwent a biopsy at a public hospital and was diagnosed with early-stage prostate cancer with no metastasis. As Mr. Li and his family preferred to avoid surgery, the public hospital considered conventional radiotherapy more suitable for Mr. Li’s overall health condition than the shorter-course stereotactic body photon radiotherapy, and advised him to undergo 20 sessions of treatment.

Although his PSA had risen to over 14 ng/mL by then, Mr. Li and his family were concerned about the relatively long course of conventional radiotherapy and its potential side effects. After learning more about proton therapy with minimal impact on surrounding vital organs and the prospect of controlling the tumour with just five sessions, he decided to proceed with proton therapy and commenced his 2.5-week course of treatment in December 2025. Mr. Li shared that he experienced almost no discomfort during or after the treatment, with just some markings on his hip, describing it as “feel like haven’t undergone any treatment at all”. His PSA level has also dropped significantly. Mr. Li is grateful for the opportunity to receive proton therapy as he can now continue to enjoy jogging and travelling with his wife, spending quality time with his grandchildren.

*Stereotactic Body Proton Therapy (SBPT) for Localized Prostate Cancer: Preliminary Clinical Results of Clinician- and Patient-Reported Outcomes [source – PTCOG-AO 2025]

# Please email to RCH-StudyInquiry@hksh-hospital.com for more information about HKSH’s proton therapy clinical study. 

About HKSH Medical Group

Officially launched in September 2017, HKSH Medical Group promotes public health and advanced medicine through a multi-faceted, coordinated approach across clinical services, medical education, scientific research and public health education. Members of the Group, including Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital, HKSH Healthcare, HKSH Eastern Medical Centre, HKSH Cancer Centre and HKSH Institute for Innovation & Professional Development, are dedicated to offering top-quality holistic care to patients.

Established in 1922, Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital is one of the key members of HKSH Medical Group and a leading private hospital in Hong Kong. Living up to its motto of ‘Quality in Service, Excellence in Care’, the Hospital is committed to serving the public as well as promoting medical education and research.

For more information about HKSH Medical Group, please visit http://www.hksh.com.

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Manulife Named “Asia’s Best Insurance Provider for Wealth Management” by Euromoney

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HONG KONG, March 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Manulife today announced it has been named “Asia’s Best Insurance Provider for Wealth Management” at the 2026 Euromoney Private Banking Awards. The award recognizes Manulife’s excellence in delivering tailored and innovative wealth and legacy planning solutions to High-Net-Worth (HNW) individuals and families across the region.

The win reflects the company’s strong growth momentum, innovative product suite, unmatched cross-border service capabilities, and deep relationships with its distribution partners. It comes as demand for HNW wealth planning services continues to grow across the region. According to McKinsey analysis, an estimated US$5.8 trillion in assets is projected to transfer between generations across Asia-Pacific by 2030*, while regional financial wealth is expanding at approximately 9% CAGR through 2029#. This growth is being driven in part by a rising segment of global Asian citizens—internationally mobile families managing assets across multiple jurisdictions—who require cross-border insurance and legacy planning solutions at scale.

“We are honoured to be recognized by Euromoney as Asia’s leading life insurance provider for Wealth Management. This award reflects our continued commitment to meeting the unique needs of our HNW clients and partners. As intergenerational wealth transfer accelerates, we see a new generation of clients—today’s global Asian citizens—who prioritize flexibility, geographic diversification, and holistic solutions that combine wealth planning with health and longevity. Our strategy is built to meet these exact needs, leveraging our multi-hub platform and omni-channel distribution to deliver best-in-class solutions that help our clients protect their legacy and secure their future across borders and generations.”

— Bonnie Qiu, CEO, Global High-Net-Worth, Manulife

During the award assessment period, Manulife achieved high double-digit sales growth in business generated from private banks and international brokers serving HNW clients in Asia. Manulife’s success is underpinned by a comprehensive product proposition and policy structuring expertise, as well as strong underwriting capacity backed by its strong relationships with re-insurers.

In June 2025, Manulife was ranked first in the life insurance sector for artificial intelligence (AI) maturity in the inaugural Evident AI Index for Insurance, ranking in the top five across the insurance industry overall. Applied directly to its HNW business, Manulife has embedded generative AI into the HNW underwriting process, significantly reducing turnaround times for large and complex cases.

Manulife’s HNW strategy integrates its four hubs—Hong Kong, Singapore, Bermuda, and Dubai—to provide seamless multi-jurisdictional access and specialist local execution for globally mobile families.

“As HNW clients’ needs in Hong Kong become increasingly sophisticated, our role has evolved beyond product provision. As a leading international financial centre, Hong Kong continues to attract HNW families with complex wealth and legacy planning needs. By bringing together our diversified distribution model, bespoke innovative solutions, and strong underwriting capabilities—supported by our Private Client Wealth Planning team—we are able to provide integrated guidance on complex matters such as trust and legacy structuring. We are uniquely positioned to help globally mobile families protect and grow their wealth across generations.”

— Patrick Graham, CEO, Manulife Hong Kong & Macau

The business also saw strong momentum in Singapore, another key pillar of its regional HNW strategy.

“Singapore’s reputation as a secure and stable wealth hub continues to attract HNW families with increasingly complex needs, and they require an insurer with proven capabilities. Our recent issuance of a landmark US$300 million policy demonstrates the market’s confidence in our financial strength and deep technical expertise. It underscores our ability to structure and underwrite large, sophisticated cases, while helping high net worth families address their wealth and legacy priorities with tailored, well structured solutions.”

— Benoit Meslet, CEO, Manulife Singapore

Looking ahead, Manulife plans to continue its investment in the HNW segment by expanding its service capabilities across the region, driving ongoing product innovation with a focus on flexibility and liquidity, and further building out its health and longevity ecosystem.

About Manulife

Manulife Financial Corporation is a leading international financial services provider, headquartered in Toronto, Canada. Anchored in our ambition to be the number one choice for customers, we operate as Manulife across Canada and Asia, and primarily as John Hancock in the United States, providing financial advice, insurance and health solutions for individuals, groups and businesses. Through Manulife Wealth & Asset Management, we offer global investment solutions, financial advice, and retirement plan services to individuals, institutions, and retirement plan members worldwide. At the end of 2025, we had more than 37,000 employees, over 106,000 agents, and thousands of distribution partners, serving over 37 million customers with operations across 25 markets globally. We trade as ‘MFC’ on the Toronto, New York, and the Philippine stock exchanges, and under ‘945’ in Hong Kong. Not all offerings are available in all jurisdictions. For additional information, please visit manulife.com.

* https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/financial-services/our-insights/asia-pacifics-family-office-boom-opportunity-knocks

# https://www.bcg.com/press/24june2025-organic-growth-advantage-financial-wealth-hits-record-high#:~:text=Asia%2DPacific%20is%20poised%20to,reaching%20%2414.4%20trillion%20in%202024

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The future of the Middle East as a sports and event hub remains bright: Al-Kholood FC owner

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Ben Harburg, owner of Al-Kholood Club says there has been some “overblown narratives” around the safety of the Middle East region as a result of the Iran war, and that things will bounce back following a structural resolution of the conflict.

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Chinese Publishing Industry Showcases Global Vision and Forges Deeper Ties at 2026 London Book Fair

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BEIJING, March 20, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The 2026 London Book Fair drew to a close on 12 March at Olympia London. As one of the world’s most influential publishing gatherings, the fair provided a key global platform for Chinese publishers to showcase their latest achievements, exchange ideas with international partners, and deepen cross‑cultural understanding. This year’s highlighted the high-quality development of China’s publishing industry and its commitment to stronger exchanges between civilisations.

A Strategic and Immersive Showcase: The Reading China Pavilion

At the centre of the Chinese Publishing Delegation’s display was the Reading China pavilion, supported by joint and independent stands from major domestic publishing groups. A diverse selection of high-quality books – including a significant number of foreign-language editions – was presented across five carefully designed sections integrating display, copyright negotiation and cultural communication.

The Premium Books Exhibition presented award‑winning literary works including The Last Quarter of the Moon and Daughter of Dunhuang, which represent the creative achievements of contemporary Chinese literature. The Traditional Culture Exhibition featured classic texts such as Yongle Encyclopedia and the immersive VR experience Digital Representation and Experience of A Comprehensive Collection of Ancient Chinese Paintings, enabling international visitors to engage with traditional Chinese art through advanced technology.

The Outstanding Journals Exhibition showcased leading English‑language academic journals under the China Science and Technology Journals Excellence Action Plan, demonstrating China’s growing strength in scholarly publishing. The China IP Exhibition highlighted creative products developed from Dunhuang and Sanxingdui cultural elements, exploring the global commercial potential of original Chinese intellectual property.

Fostering High-Level Dialogue and Literary Connections

The delegation hosted a series of over 40 high-profile professional events, facilitating substantive exchanges between Chinese and international thought leaders.

A flagship event on the opening day was the Symposium on China and the World in the New Era and Book Launching Ceremony, hosted by China National Publications Import & Export (Group) Co., Ltd.

At the event, China Under the Global Development Initiative: An Economic Perspective was officially unveiled in English, with a signing ceremony also held for its Spanish edition.

Leading experts including John Ross, former economic advisor to the Mayor of London, and Kerry Brown, Director of the China Institute at King’s College London, joined in in-depth discussions on China’s part in global development.

Another highlight of the cultural exchange programme was the Where Stories Meet History: Book Launch on the Works with Cultural Heritage, which explored innovative modern expressions of cultural heritage.

Chinese author Li Shanshan shared insights into the creation of her Sanxingdui-inspired work The Millennial Vessel.

Together with Manon Steffan Ros, winner of the Wales Book of the Year and the Carnegie Medal, and Zhang Huaicun, Lifetime Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, she discussed how historical relics can be reimagined through children’s literature.

Also attracting strong international interest was the Mai Jia Translated Works Showcase @ LBF 2026 and a rights exchange session at this year’s London Book Fair. Penguin Random House is set to reissue English editions of Mai Jia’s classic novels Decoded and In the Dark. Publishers, editors and rights agents from across Europe gathered to discuss translation strategies and market partnerships, underscoring the global appeal of contemporary Chinese fiction.

Advancing Academic Collaboration and Strategic Partnerships

Academic publishing and global collaboration formed a core part of China’s presentation at this year’s fair.

In partnership with Taylor & Francis Group, China Social Sciences Press officially launched the English edition of The Belt and Road Handbook (Third Edition). Distinguished scholars Cai Fang and Peter Nolan joined the launch event, marking an important milestone in the global outreach of Chinese social science research.

Hosted by China National Publications Import & Export (Group) Co., Ltd, the China-UK Publishing and Creative Industries Exchange brought together senior industry figures from both countries. Participants explored practical cooperation across IP development, digital content innovation, children’s publishing, and global distribution, drawing on the UK’s leading expertise in the creative industries.

On the fair’s official International Stage, Beijing Institute of Graphic Communication held the academic forum Beyond Borders: Breaking-through and Reshaping of the Future Publishing. Experts from Springer Nature, Oxford Brookes University and the Publishers Association (UK) discussed intelligent publishing, digital transformation and cross-border copyright issues, helping shape the future of the global publishing ecosystem.

Enriching Engagement Through Cultural Experiences

Beyond formal forums and commercial discussions, Chinese publishers offered a rich programme of immersive cultural activities for international visitors. These included displays of traditional Chinese picture-story books and Suzhou embroidery, together with interactive sessions of tea tasting and seal carving.

A series of book launches and copyright signing ceremonies were held throughout the fair, exploring themes from urban culture and history to intangible cultural heritage. Major titles included foreign-language versions of The Chinese Path and Jade: A Window into Chinese Civilization from the Place Museum.

The BIBF Reception & Premiere of the Video Series “Hello, Beijing also served to deepen ties with partners across the global publishing industry. Talks with winners of the BBC National Short Story Award and the English-language launch of the children’s book The Bronze Sacred Tree underscored the growing international presence of Chinese children’s literature.

Conclusion: A New Chapter in Global Publishing Exchange

China’s participation in the 2026 London Book Fair was a resounding success, vividly portraying a publishing industry that is at once deeply rooted in its rich culture and energetically engaged with the world. By seamlessly blending content excellence, strategic dialogue, and immersive experiences, the delegation not only showcased its current achievements but also proactively paved the way for the next chapter of wider exchange, deeper partnership, and strengthened cultural connectivity in the years ahead.

 

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Australian teen sensation Emerson Jones overcome with emotion after making tennis history

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Australian rising star Emerson Jones has made tennis history with a clutch win over Linda Fruhvirtova at the multimillion-dollar Miami Open.

Jones, just 17, dropped the first set but fought back to claim a 3-6 7-6 (7-3) 7-6 (7-4) in just under three hours.

The wildcard is in her first appearance at a WTA 1000 tournament and is the youngest Aussie to win a main-draw match at the level, the highest below the grand slams, since Jelena Dokic in 1999.

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Jones is also just the second woman born in 2008 to win a main-draw match in a WTA 1000 tournament.

The world No.147 edged out Fruhvirtova in a wobbly match that featured a total of 13 breaks of serve, with Jones saving 11 of 18 break points while converting six of her own 10 chances.

The Aussie raced out to a 4-1 lead in the third set behind three breaks.

Fruhvirtova fought back and saved a match point to level it up at 5-5 before being just two points away herself on Jones’s serve.

But Jones held firm to send it to a tiebreak, where she quickly trailed 1-3 but claimed six of the next seven points to seal an emotional victory.

The teenager dropped her racquet and sunk into a kneel before standing and briefly turning to compose herself.

Her reward is a second-round clash with Australian Open semi-finalist Elina Svitolina, who had a first-round bye.

Svitolina made a final in Dubai last month and reached the semis at Indian Wells last week.

Elsewhere among the Aussies in Miami, Talia Gibson continued her hot run with a 6-0 6-1 rout of Sara Bejlek.

Gibson will face four-time grand slam champion Naomi Osaka in the second round, with the Japanese star seeking to bounce back from being knocked out of Indian Wells by world No.1 Aryna Sabalenka.

Australian Kim Birrell went down to American Ann Li 2-6 6-2 3-6.

There was also history on the men’s side of the draw at Miami with Moise Kouame becoming the first player born in 2009 to win an ATP Tour match.

The 17-year-old Frenchman, like Jones, fought back from losing the first set to claim a 5-7 6-4 6-4 win over American qualifier Zachary Svajda.

The wildcard became the youngest Miami match winner and the youngest ATP Masters 1000 winner since Rafael Nadal in 2003.

“It’s huge,” Kouame told the Tennis Channel.

“First main draw at a Masters 1000 here in Miami, it’s such a cool place. I’m really happy to win that match today and hopefully I can win many more.

“It’s my first time, so I didn’t expect all of this, but here I am. I need to get used to it pretty fast. It brings me a lot of confidence. It shows me that I’m on the right path. I just need to keep working.”

At a career-high world No.385, Kouame is the youngest player inside the top 900 and has soared to fourth in the Next Gen Race.

Next up in Miami is Czech 21st seed Jiri Lehecka, as he looks to extend his dream debut.

But while Kouame marches on, Aussie Alexei Popyrin’s slow start to the year continued with a 6-4 6-4 loss to revitalised three-time grand slam finalist and 2014 US Open champion Marin Cilic.

After cracking the world’s top 20 last year, Popyrin — the only Australian since Lleyton Hewitt more than two decades ago to conquer Novak Djokovic — has only won two matches thus far in 2026.

James Duckworth also lost to a veteran, bowing out 7-6 (7-3) 7-6 (7-4) to Spaniard Roberto Bautista Agut.

In other matches, former French and Australian Open runner-up Stefanos Tsitsipas beat French-born British qualifier Arthur Fery 6-1 7-6 (7-4) to set up a second-round showdown with Australia’s world No.6 Alex de Minaur.

World No.3 Iga Swiatek was a shock first-round loser in the women’s event, the five-time grand slam champ falling 1-6 7-5 6-3 to Polish compatriot Magna Linette.

– with AAP

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