Media OutReach

AIA launches AIA Voluntary Health Insurance SelectWise Scheme Elevating in-patient care at designated hospitals[1]

Published

6 days ago

03/02/2026

For a limited time, customers can enjoy up to 7 months’ premium refund[2] upon successful application with tax deduction benefits

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 February 2026 – In a strategic response to customers’ growing need for unparalleled medical and in-patient experience, AIA has launched the AIA Voluntary Health Insurance SelectWise Scheme (“SelectWise”), the first VHIS plan in the market to feature a dedicated medical journey.³ Designed for everyday consumers seeking more quality healthcare at an affordable budget, SelectWise has no sub-limits on individual benefit items,⁴ a feature typically seen in high-end medical insurance. By choosing in-patient care at SelectWise Designated Hospitals⁵in Hong Kong, customers can also enjoy upgraded room types.¹

A recent survey⁶ by AIA Hong Kong showed that nearly half (46%) of respondents across the city prioritise comfort and privacy during hospitalisation, while three in five (57%) have sought or considered medical care in Chinese Mainland. SelectWise allows customers to plan northbound medical care journeys with the first-in-industry⁷ Care Concierge⁸ services, including dedicated Service Ambassador.

Alice Liang, Chief Proposition & Healthcare Officer of AIA Hong Kong & Macau, said the AIA Voluntary Health Insurance SelectWise Scheme is a strategic response to customers’ growing need for access to quality private healthcare through product innovation.

Ms Alice Liang, Chief Proposition & Healthcare Officer of AIA Hong Kong & Macau, said, “With Hongkongers’ pressing need for quality private healthcare, medical insurance is more important than ever. At AIA, we are committed to addressing customer needs through innovation. SelectWise combines a curated medical network with one-stop services, giving customers access to quality private healthcare with peace of mind and a reasonable budget, delivering on our purpose of Healthier, Longer, Better Lives.

SelectWise is more than a product innovation; it represents a significant step forward in AIA’s commitment to advancing our Integrated Health Strategy (IHS) and reshaping the medical insurance ecosystem. This initiative builds on the momentum of AIA’s inaugural Healthcare Financing Summit in June last year and reinforces our ongoing efforts to foster cross-sector collaboration in Hong Kong’s medical landscape. Through IHS, we aim to make healthcare more accessible, more affordable, and more effective for the communities we serve.”

Upgraded room types¹ or quality in-patient experience at designated hospitals across Hong Kong, Macau and Chinese Mainland

In Hong Kong, customers opting for network doctors within the SelectWise Medical Network⁹ can enjoy semi-private rooms at designated hospitals,^1,5 with all medical expenses during hospitalisation pre-approved¹⁰ for peace of mind. In Macau, semi-private room access is also available at designated hospitals.^1,5 In Chinese Mainland, customers may choose between two groups of SelectWise Designated Hospitals⁵: standard private rooms (currently there are seven group A hospitals in the Greater Bay Area) or semi-private rooms (at over 1,700 group B hospitals across Chinese Mainland currently),¹¹ addressing the growing demand in northbound medical treatment.

Ms Alice Liang, Chief Proposition & Healthcare Officer of AIA Hong Kong & Macau (centre), Dr York Chow, Head of Medical Office of AIA Hong Kong & Macau (sixth from left) and Dr Alexander Chiu, Head of Medical and Healthcare Provisions of AIA Hong Kong & Macau (sixth from right) with hospital representatives: Dr Yannie Soo of Union Hospital, Ms Grace Wong of Hong Kong Baptist Hospital, Mr Gilbert Lee of St. Paul’s Hospital, Mr Eric Wong of St. Teresa’s Hospital, Ms Qi Wei of Kiang Wu Hospital, Dr Jasperine Ho of The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Mr Brian Siu of Shenzhen New Frontier United Family Hospital, Ms Lincole Lin of Guangzhou United Family Hospital, Ms Summer Suen of Zhongshan Chen Xinghai Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, and Mr Leo Shen of Shenzhen Heng Sheng Hospital, Guangzhou Xin Shi Hospital and Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital

SelectWise has no sub-limits on individual benefit items⁴ for key medical expenses, offering customers greater flexibility in coverage to allocate payouts on items that matter most.

Hong Kong’s first VHIS plan delivering a dedicated medical journey with full care from doctor search to recovery³

SelectWise delivers a fully integrated medical journey through the combination of the curated SelectWise Medical Network⁹ and the industry-first⁷ Care Concierge⁸ services in Chinese Mainland. This one-stop approach ensures simplicity, predictability and confidence by connecting every stage of the healthcare experience.

The SelectWise Medical Network⁹ includes multi-disciplinary specialists and healthcare professionals across Hong Kong, supporting customers from doctor search and appointment booking to diagnosis, treatment, hospitalisation, payment and recovery. For customers seeking care in Chinese Mainland, unfamiliar procedures can be daunting. The dedicated 1-to-1 Service Ambassador from Care Concierge⁸ provides personalised assistance — from pre-approval of medical expenses^10,12to tailored medical and nursing support throughout diagnosis, treatment and recovery.

First-in-industry¹³ instant online booking for specialists

Through the AIA+ mobile app, customers can access the industry-first¹³ “Find/Book Doctors” feature,¹⁴ enabling instant filtering of specialists within the SelectWise Medical Network,⁹ identification of designated hospitals⁵ and appointment booking. Network doctors also assist with pre-approval of medical expenses¹⁰ and cashless services,¹⁵ giving customers full visibility of their medical costs without the stress of bill payments and claims.

With roots in Hong Kong, AIA today provides personal medical insurance to one in three individuals in Hong Kong.¹⁶ The company tirelessly works with its partners and stakeholders to shape a sustainable future for medical protection in Hong Kong.

Key product features of the AIA Voluntary Health Insurance SelectWise Scheme include:

Option to stay in a comfortable room type¹during hospitalisation	Basic ward room coverage across Asia Comfortable room types¹ at SelectWise Designated Hospitals⁵ in Hong Kong, Macau and Chinese Mainland In Hong Kong: Semi-private rooms,¹ if all attending registered medical practitioners and surgeons who provides medical services during the confinement are network doctors of SelectWise Medical Network,⁹ with all medical expenses incurred during confinement pre-approved¹⁰ In Macau: Semi-private rooms¹ In Chinese Mainland¹⁷: Two groups of SelectWise Designated Hospitals⁵ for selection – standard private rooms (for group A hospitals in the Greater Bay Area) or semi-private rooms (for group B hospitals across Chinese Mainland)¹¹ Lifetime limit of up to HK$60 million and annual limit of up to HK$12 million Extensive protection with no itemised benefit sublimit for key medical expenses⁴
Higher benefit amount for network benefit	Higher benefit amount for pre- and post-confinement / day case procedure outpatient care, Chinese medicine practitioner outpatient care, and day surgery cash benefit if customers meet the below conditions: In Hong Kong: Medical services are directly prescribed, managed, supervised or carried out by network doctors of SelectWise Medical Network⁹and all medical expenses incurred are pre-approved¹⁰ (if applicable) In Macau and Chinese Mainland¹⁷: Receiving medical services at SelectWise Designated Hospitals⁵
Dedicated medical journey connected by quality SelectWise Medical Network⁹	Access to a network of multi-disciplinary medical specialists and healthcare professionals within the vast SelectWise Medical Network⁹ First-in-industry¹³ “Find/Book Doctors” feature¹⁴via the AIA+ mobile app for instant online appointment with network doctors, enabling easy filtering of specialities, doctors, and SelectWise Designated Hospitals⁵ available for admission Network doctors will assists customers in submitting applications for pre-approval of medical expenses¹⁰ and cashless services,¹⁵ offering customers peace of mind without the hassle of medical bill payments and claims
Tailored coverage and support to facilitate a supreme medical experience in Chinese Mainland	Upgraded first-in-industry⁷ value-added service Care Concierge⁸: 1-to-1 concierge support of Service Ambassador Medical Companion Service provides administrative support prior to applying pre-approval for medical expenses¹⁰^,12offering personalised care from diagnosis, treatment to recovery Online family doctor service with delivery of designated medications¹⁸ Transportation fee subsidy benefit for receiving medical services for non-emergency treatment in Chinese Mainland¹⁹
Elderly cancer support – waiver of deductible for designated cancer^{20, 21}	The remaining balance of the annual deductible in relation to the medical services arising from the insured person’s designated cancer²⁰ will be waived²¹ if the insured person is aged 75 or above and is unfortunately diagnosed with designated cancer²⁰
Certified Plan under the Voluntary Health Insurance Scheme	Quality medical coverage, while customers can apply for tax deduction on qualifying premium²²

List of SelectWise Designated Hospitals⁵:

Hong Kong

Macau

Chinese Mainland

Union Hospital
Hong Kong Baptist Hospital
St. Paul’s Hospital
St. Teresa’s Hospital

Kiang Wu Hospital

Group A

The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital (International Medical Center)
Shenzhen New Frontier United Family Hospital
Shenzhen Heng Sheng Hospital
Guangzhou United Family Hospital
Guangzhou Xin Shi Hospital
Zhongshan Chen Xinghai Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine
Foshan Fosun Chancheng Hospital

Group B

Over 1,700 hospitals across Chinese Mainland

(as of October 2025)

From now until 31 March 2026, customers who successfully apply for SelectWise and designated insurance plans can enjoy up to 7 months of premium refund.² The SelectWise Medical Series is available in Macau and Pearl editions, offering tailored solutions to meet the diverse needs of customers.

Notes:

To be eligible for semi-private room during confinement in SelectWise Designated Hospitals in Hong Kong, all of the following conditions must be fulfilled: (i) the insured person is confined in a SelectWise Designated Hospital in Hong Kong; (ii) all of the attending registered medical practitioners and surgeons who provide medical services during the confinement are network doctors of SelectWise Medical Network; and (iii) the network doctor of SelectWise Medical Network must have submitted the completed Prior-Authorization Request Form for pre-approval of medical expenses on behalf of the insured person to the Company in respect of all medical services to be obtained by the insured person for the disability during the confinement, and the Company must have approved such Prior-Authorization Request Form before the network doctor of SelectWise Medical Network provides medical services to the insured person. Alternatively, if all of the eligibility requirements for semi-private room set out above are met, a lower ward class cash benefit will be paid if the insured person is confined in a ward class lower than the eligible semi-private room in a SelectWise Designated Hospital in Hong Kong. When the network doctor of SelectWise Medical Network fills in the Prior-Authorization Request Form for application for pre-approval of medical expenses on behalf of the insured person, please be reminded to inform the network doctor of SelectWise Medical Network of the insured person’s personally preferred room type.
Terms & conditions apply. Refer to the promotional leaflet for details. Premium refund and premium discount (including e-premium coupon, if any) are not eligible for tax deductions.
The first VHIS plan in the market that enables the insured person to be eligible for a semi-private room instead of a ward room during confinement, if all of the following conditions are fulfilled: (i) the insured person is confined in a SelectWise Designated Hospital in Hong Kong; (ii) all of the attending registered medical practitioners and surgeons who provide medical services during the confinement are network doctors of SelectWise Medical Network; and (iii) the network doctor of SelectWise Medical Network must have submitted the completed Prior-Authorization Request Form for pre-approval of medical expenses on behalf of the insured person to the Company in respect of all medical services to be obtained by the insured person for the disability during the confinement, and the Company must have approved such Prior-Authorization Request Form before the network doctor of SelectWise Medical Network provides medical services to the insured person, as of 27 October 2025 compared against VHIS plans offered by major Hong Kong insurance companies. A “dedicated medical journey” means that SelectWise Medical Network supports customers at every touchpoint – from doctor search to diagnosis, treatment, payment and recovery – integrating the key stages of customers’ medical journey.
No itemised benefit sublimit for medically necessary services, provided the claims will be evaluated based on reasonable and customary charges. Claim amount is subject to the benefit limits as set out in the benefit schedule including annual benefit limit, lifetime benefit limit and annual deductible. Please also refer to the product brochure for the details and definition of “reasonable and customary” and “medically necessary”. Benefits payable related to the confinement are subject to the applicable covered room.
The list of SelectWise Designated Hospitals can be retrieved from AIA’s website (www.aia.com.hk) and may be varied, updated and amended from time to time at AIA’s sole discretion. Any change shall be deemed as effective on the date of publication on the Company’s website irrespective of whether any separate notice is given. All the claims settlement will be subject to the final bill and the policy terms and conditions. For confinement in SelectWise Designated Hospitals in Chinese Mainland, the covered room shall be determined according to the group of hospitals (either group A or group B) which the relevant SelectWise Designated Hospital falls within. Please note that the list of SelectWise Designated Hospitals (group B) in Chinese Mainland is only available in Traditional Chinese and Simplified Chinese. AIA shall not be responsible for any act, negligence or omission of any of the hospital within the list of SelectWise Designated Hospitals in the provision of services, treatments, opinions and advice.
In August 2025, AIA conducted an online survey with 1,000 Hong Kong residents aged 18 to 65.
For Care Concierge, the first-in-industry statement refers to Hong Kong insurance industry-first healthcare support that integrates (a) dedicated concierge service with a suite of healthcare and support services for the eligible insured person and (b) the medical home visit service in Chinese Mainland for the eligible insured person’s parents, as of 31 January 2024 compared against similar services offered by major Hong Kong insurance companies. AIA is not the service provider or the agent of the service provider.
The services are provided in Chinese Mainland by the designated third party service provider engaged by AIA, subject to change from time to time at our discretion. It is an additional value-added service and does not form part of the contractual benefits. AIA is not the service provider or the agent of the service provider. AIA makes no representation, warranty or undertaking as to the quality and availability of the service and shall not accept any responsibility or liability for the services provided by the service provider(s). Under no circumstance shall AIA be responsible or liable for the acts or omissions or negligence in provision of the services (including but not limited to diagnosis, treatment and medical and healthcare services) by the service provider.
SelectWise Medical Network is only available in Hong Kong and refers to designated third party medical network service providers engaged by AIA. The designated third party medical network service providers are independent contractors and are not agents or employees or representatives of AIA. AIA does not guarantee the provision of services or treatment by a particular medical network / service provider or the number of medical network(s) / service provider(s) available. For details, please refer to the product brochure.
Request for pre-approval of medical expenses is subject to AIA’s approval. It is an additional value-added service and does not form part of the contractual benefits. Depending on your policy coverage, you may be required to pay part of the bill later.
For details on the exact room entitlement, please refer to the Covered Room as stated in the benefit schedule of the product brochure. For any confinement and / or medical services received in non-SelectWise Designated Hospitals in Chinese Mainland, only the benefits stated in the VHIS Standard Plan will be payable under this plan, subject to the benefit limits of the VHIS Standard Plan; while benefits are not payable under the SelectWise Medical Plan and the SelectWise Pearl Medical Plan.
The insured person is required to submit the application form for the pre-approval & cashless service of medical expenses to AIA. We use the “Reasonable & Customary” guideline to ensure all procedures are medically necessary, and costs are fair, based on market data.
For online instant booking, the first-in-industry statement refers to Hong Kong insurance industry-first online instant booking service for specialists within the medical network, as of 13 October 2025 compared against similar mobile applications / web portals offered by major Hong Kong insurance companies. Applicable to SelectWise Medical Network only.
Applicable to designated third party medical network service provider(s) only.
Availability of the cashless service is subject to designated third party medical service providers and AIA’s approval. It is an additional value-added service and does not form part of the contractual benefits. Depending on your policy coverage, you may be required to pay part of the bill later.
Based on Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Census and Statistics Department – Thematic Household Survey Report No. 78, January 2024, Table 7.1a and AIA internal data.
For any confinement and / or medical services for the insured person which are rendered or undertaken in a non-SelectWise Designated Hospital in Chinese Mainland, only the benefits stated in the VHIS Standard Plan will be payable under this plan, subject to the benefit limits of the VHIS Standard Plan, while benefits are not payable under the SelectWise Medical Plan and the SelectWise Pearl Medical Plan.
The medications which can be prescribed under Online Family Doctor Service of Care Concierge are certain over-the-counter medications (i.e. medications without the requirement for a prescription issued by registered medical practitioners), and certain prescription medications. The prescription medications may only be prescribed if the insured person submits the valid prescription issued by a registered medical practitioner in Chinese Mainland subject to the relevant local laws and regulations. The prescription of any medication, regardless of whether it is over-the-counter or prescribed medication, is subject to the availability and certain limitations and requirements of the relevant medications, the review of the valid prescription submitted by the insured person (applicable to the prescribed medications), and the assessment by the designated family doctor on the suitability and conditions of the insured person at the sole discretion of the designated family doctor and / or the service provider. The delivery of medications is subject to geographical limitation and certain limitations and / or requirements of the medications. The costs of the medications and the medications delivery shall be borne by the customer and be settled directly with the service provider. For details of the prescription and delivery of the medications, please contact the service provider.
This benefit shall be payable for each day the insured person receives medical services for non-emergency treatment in SelectWise Designated Hospitals in the Chinese Mainland for which designated benefits are payable, subject to the maximum limits as stated in the benefit schedule.
The term “designated cancer(s)” shall mean all stages of malignant cancer and carcinoma-in-situ, but will specifically exclude any of the following: (a) any tumour which is histologically classified as pre-malignant; (b) abnormal lesions of cervix uteri classified as cervical intra-epithelial neoplasia grade I (CIN I) and grade II (CIN II); and (c) any cancer where HIV infection is also present. The designated cancer must be confirmed by the insured person’s attending specialist in writing and supported by clinical, radiological, histological or laboratory evidence reasonably acceptable to us. Please refer to the policy contract for details and the claim conditions.
This waiver of deductible is not applicable if the policyholder or the insured person is aware of, or shall be reasonably aware of, such designated cancer within the first 90 days from the policy effective date. If the insured person is diagnosed with sickness other than designated cancer with eligible expenses incurred, such eligible expense is subject to the remaining balance of annual deductible amount (if any). The elderly cancer support – waiver of deductible for designated cancer is not applicable to policy with $0 annual deductible option.
Qualifying premiums under a Certified Plan of VHIS is one of the allowable tax deductions under salaries tax and personal assessment, it does not equate to a direct deduction from total tax payable. For details on tax deductions (e.g. eligibility for tax deductions), please visit www.vhis.gov.hk and www.ird.gov.hk/eng/faq/vhis_qp.htm and consult your own tax and accounting advisors for tax advice. Premium refund and premium discount (including e-premium coupon, if any) are not eligible for tax deductions.

Important disclaimer

AIA Voluntary Health Insurance SelectWise Scheme is only available in Hong Kong and can be purchased as a basic plan or as an add-on plan. You can also choose to purchase AIA Voluntary Health Insurance Standard Scheme. SelectWise Medical Plan (only available in Macau) and SelectWise Pearl Medical Plan (available in Hong Kong and Macau) can be purchased as a basic plan or as an add-on plan. You have the right to purchase AIA Voluntary Health Insurance SelectWise Scheme / SelectWise Medical Plan / SelectWise Pearl Medical Plan as a standalone plan without purchasing other insurance products at the same time.

All information above is for reference only and does not constitute any offer and/or insurance product recommendation. The product information in this material does not contain the full terms of the product. For the details of the product features, terms and conditions, exclusions and key product risks, please refer to the product brochure and policy contract of relevant products or visit AIA Hong Kong’s website. In case you want to read policy contract sample before making an application, you can obtain a copy from AIA. Life insurance policies are long-term contracts of insurance.

Hashtag: #AIA

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

About AIA Hong Kong & Macau

AIA Group Limited established its operations in Hong Kong in 1931. To date, AIA Hong Kong and AIA Macau have about 18,000 financial planners¹, as well as an extensive network of independent financial advisors, brokerage and bancassurance partners. We serve over 3.6 million customers², offering them a wide selection of professional services and products ranging from individual life, group life, accident, medical and health, pension, personal lines insurance to investment-linked assurance schemes with numerous investment options. We are also dedicated to providing superb product solutions to meet the financial needs of high-net-worth customers.

¹ As at 30 June 2025
² Including AIA Hong Kong and AIA Macau’s individual life, group insurance and pension customers (as at 30 June 2025)

Media OutReach

Alibaba Group Debuts “Wonder on Ice,” an Immersive AI Experience at Milan’s Sforza Castle for Milano Cortina 2026

Published

1 day ago

07/02/2026

Media Outreach

MILAN, ITALY – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 February 2026 – Alibaba Group today opened “Alibaba Wonder on Ice” (AWI), an interactive public installation in Milan’s Piazza del Castello Sforzesco, using artificial intelligence and cloud computing to showcase how virtual retail experiences could evolve during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.

Set against the historic backdrop of the Sforza Castle and the commercial artery of Via Dante, AWI turns one of Milan’s most recognizable public spaces into a live demonstration of how digital technologies can intersect with culture, commerce and consumer engagement. Powered by Alibaba’s advanced technology stack, the showcase illustrates how artificial intelligence can enable immersive, interactive digital retail experiences that respond dynamically to individual preferences.

“Alibaba and the IOC share a simple belief together: technology should enable the Olympic Games to be more exciting, accessible, sustainable and connected,” said Joe Tsai, Chairman of Alibaba Group. “With the power of AI, we are moving from “Cloud Olympics” toward “Intelligent Olympics”, as AI helps us work better, make smarter decisions, and connect more meaningfully.”

“I’m delighted to be here at the Alibaba Group Showcase, celebrating nine years of our partnership which represents one of the most significant technological transformations in Olympic history. Building on innovations delivered at recent Games, Milano Cortina 2026 represents a major step forward in cloud-based, AI-enabled broadcasting and operations, setting a new benchmark for future editionsn. Together with Alibaba, we’re not only ensuring the Games remain efficient and sustainable, but also remain engaging through sports media technology to audiences, athletes and fans worldwide”, said Kirsty Coventry, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC)”

A Personalized Journey Guided by AI

At the core of the installation is an AI-guided journey that brings virtual retail into a physical environment. Upon entry, visitors are invited to share simple preferences—such as their favorite Milano Cortina 2026 sport—with an AI agent, which uses these inputs to curate a personalized journey throughout the space. Visitors may also choose to have their photo taken to generate a real-time digital avatar, further tailoring the journey to the individual.

The AI agent then acts as a virtual stylist, interacting with visitors and offering tailored recommendations for clothing, fragrance, and makeup. As participants make selections, the experience evolves continuously, demonstrating how AI-enabled retail can move beyond static product catalogues towards adaptive, interactive experiences. Each journey culminates in a personalized AI-generated video in which the visitor’s avatar becomes the central character in a digital gala setting.

The experience is supported by Alibaba’s latest AI and cloud technologies, including its Qwen3 series of large language and vision models, Wan 2.2 image-to-video generation model, and Taobao Vision’s immersive shopping solution, and Alibaba Cloud’s global cloud infrastructure.

Architecture Inspired by Ice and Light

Spanning 40 meters, the installation consists of two architectural elements:

The Snow Globe, a spherical pavilion that serves as an interactive space during the day and transforms into a projection surface for AI-generated visuals in the evening
The Crystalized Skirt Building, a sculptural structure inspired by the crystalline geometry of frost and snowflakes, which houses the immersive AI-powered virtual retail experience.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the installation uses recyclable materials and leaves no permanent footprint on the historic plaza.

AWI will be open to the public from February 7–22, 2026, during the Olympic Winter Games, and March 6–15, 2026, during the Paralympic Winter Games.

Showcasing the First AI-Generated Olympic Fan Art Collection

The opening of AWI also marked the unveiling of the results of the Alibaba Cloud AIGC Championship @ Milano Cortina 2026, the first Olympic fan engagement initiative of its kind developed in partnership with the International Olympic Committee, the Olympic Museum and the Milano Cortina 2026 Organising Committee.

Using Alibaba’s Wan video generation models, fans from around the world created original video artworks inspired by four winter sports: figure skating, short track speed skating, alpine skiing, and snowboarding.

A curated selection of the top 100 works is now being displayed on the surface of the Snow Globe. This collection represents the first AI-generated artworks to be displayed by the Olympic Museum located in Lausanne, Switzerland. Ten creators will be awarded tickets to attend the Olympic Winter Games in person.

By combining Olympic inspiration with accessible AI technology, Alibaba Wonder on Ice invites fans worldwide to go beyond spectating, allowing them to step into the Games, express their “vibe,” and join the Olympic Movement in an entirely new way.

Hashtag: #Alibaba

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

About Alibaba Group

Alibaba Group is a global technology company focused on e-commerce and cloud computing. We enable merchants, brands and retailers to market, sell and engage with consumers by providing digital and logistics infrastructure, efficiency tools and vast marketing reach. We empower enterprises with our leading cloud infrastructure, services and work collaboration capabilities to facilitate their digital transformation and grow their businesses.

Media OutReach

Skylon Appoints COBNB as Hospitality Partner, Launches COBNB+ with L’Occitane en Provence Hotel Amenities

Published

2 days ago

07/02/2026

Media Outreach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 February 2026 – Skylon, a premium development by GBD Land, located at Changkat Raja Chulan, Bukit Bintang, 50200 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur, has officially appointed COBNB as its hospitality partner, marking the launch of COBNB+, the company’s new premium hospitality brand. Skylon is the first development to debut under the initiative.

Image courtesy of COBNB+, L’Occitane en Provence and Skylon Residences

As part of the COBNB+ rollout, all PLUS-managed residences at Skylon will feature a full upgrade to L’Occitane en Provence hotel amenities, setting a new standard for guest comfort. The partnership reflects COBNB’s strategic move into experience-led hospitality, where design, service, and brand collaboration come together to enhance guest satisfaction and long-term asset value.

COBNB+ represents the highest tier within COBNB’s managed portfolio, designed for guests who value refined living, consistency, and effortless stays. The programme combines curated interiors, elevated operational standards, and technology-enabled hospitality, offering a boutique-hotel experience within a service apartment setting.

L’Occitane en Provence was selected as COBNB+’s premium amenities partner for its strong association with leading hotels and resorts worldwide, its commitment to responsibly sourced ingredients, and its timeless French heritage. The brand’s emphasis on sensorial comfort and craftsmanship aligns naturally with COBNB’s vision of modern, experience-led hospitality.

Skylon’s designation as the first COBNB+ property establishes a new benchmark for managed residences in Malaysia. The collaboration reflects a shared vision between GBD Land and COBNB to operate residential assets at hospitality-grade standards, enhance guest satisfaction and loyalty, and strengthen long-term asset performance.

“At L’Occitane en Provence, we believe everyday rituals can become precious moments. Our partnership with COBNB+ at Skylon reflects a shared vision to elevate the guest experience through sensorial comfort, thoughtful details, and the art of Provençal living — even within a modern service apartment setting,” said Elida Wong, General Manager, Southeast Asia, L’Occitane en Provence.

The launch of COBNB+ at Skylon marks the beginning of a broader premium rollout across selected developments. As COBNB continues to expand its hospitality platform, COBNB+ will serve as its flagship standard for luxury short-stay and serviced living.

At COBNB, luxury is intentional — and it begins with attention to every detail.

Hashtag: #cobnb #cobnb+ #loccitane #skylonresidences

https://www.cobnb.com.my/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/cobnb-sdn-bhd/
https://www.facebook.com/share/1DHQm5k9CA/
https://www.instagram.com/cobnbmsia?igsh=azlnYWhwMXRxdnk0

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

About GBD Land

GBD Land is a forward-looking property developer focused on creating thoughtfully designed residential developments that combine lifestyle, quality, and long-term value.

About L’Occitane en Provence

Founded in the South of France, L’Occitane en Provence is a globally recognised brand known for its natural ingredients, Provençal heritage, and long-standing presence as a preferred amenities partner for premium hotels and resorts worldwide.

About COBNB

COBNB is Malaysia’s leading short-term rental and hospitality management platform, operating at the intersection of technology, design, and service excellence to maximise guest experience and long-term asset performance.

For more information, visit: https://www.cobnb.com.my/cobnb-plus

Skylon Residences:https://skylon.com.my/

Media OutReach

China and ASEAN Celebrate the Chinese Spring Festival Together

Published

3 days ago

06/02/2026

Media Outreach

JAKARTA, INDONESIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2026 – 2026 marks the 35th anniversary of the establishment of dialogue relations between China and ASEAN and the 5th anniversary of the establishment of the China-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. It also coincides with the Year of the Horse in Chinese Spring Festival. On February 5, the “Steeds Herald Spring, Blessings Fill ASEAN”—Spring Festival @ ASEAN Headquarters 2026 was successfully held at the ASEAN Headquarters in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The Chinese Ambassador to ASEAN and representatives of the Guangxi government pose for a handshake group photo with the permanent representatives of the 11 ASEAN member states (Photo by Huang Jundong)

The event, supported by the Mission of the People’s Republic of China to ASEAN, the Permanent Mission of Malaysia to ASEAN, and the ASEAN Secretariat, was hosted by the Information Office of the People’s Government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, and the Department of Culture and Tourism of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, China, and jointly organized by Guangxi Daily (Guangxi International Communication Center), Guangxi Radio and Television, Guangxi Tourism Development Group, and Guangxi Cultural Industry Group. More than 250 guests attended the event, including envoys from the 11 ASEAN countries and external partners such as Russia, the United Kingdom, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil, senior officials from the ASEAN Secretariat, representatives from mainstream ASEAN media, local university faculty and students, and representatives from Chinese-funded enterprises.

I. A Gathering of Distinguished Guests, Sharing a Common Vision

This marks the first time that Chinese Spring Festival cultural activities have been held at the ASEAN Headquarters. With the deepening of globalization, the traditional festival of Spring Festival is not only a time for family reunions for the Chinese people, but also a new bond for dialogue between different civilizations. The Chinese Spring Festival embodies the philosophy of “harmony and coexistence”, which aligns perfectly with the ASEAN countries’ pursuit of “unity and cooperation”. Furthermore, the sustainable development concept of “rejuvenating the old and welcoming the new” resonates strongly with the ASEAN region’s vision of “common prosperity”.

Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, stated in his video address that over time, the Spring Festival has evolved into a global celebration. Its inscription on the UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2024 underscores the rich significance of this precious human heritage. Within ASEAN, many member states celebrate the Spring Festival, reminding people of the deep emotional bonds that transcend national borders. ASEAN will continue its commitment to fostering a community proud of its identity, actively undertaking the responsibility of protecting, preserving, and creating culture, arts, and traditions, and promoting the development of the cultural and creative industries. As we welcome the Year of the Horse, we hope everyone will embrace the elegance, vitality, and forward momentum that the horse represents, and embark on the new year together with hope, resilience, and unity.

Wang Qing, Chinese Ambassador to ASEAN, stated in his address that the Spring Festival symbolizes reunion, joy, and harmony. Celebrating the holiday together exemplifies the close bonds between the people of China and ASEAN, the integration of our civilizations, and our harmonious coexistence. The China-ASEAN community with a shared future is growing ever closer, demonstrating powerful vitality and setting an exemplary model for building a community with a shared future for mankind. He specifically noted that Guangxi serves as a vital “connection point” and “intersection point” for China-ASEAN friendship, exchanges, and cooperation, functioning as both a “gateway and engine” within the China-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. In the new year, he extended heartfelt wishes for China-ASEAN friendship and cooperation to surge forward like galloping horses, unstoppable in its momentum.

Ambassador Sarah, Permanent Representative of Malaysia to ASEAN, noted in the address that as the Country Coordinator for China-ASEAN Relations, Malaysia has been privileged to witness and foster the flourishing development of the China-ASEAN Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Cultural celebrations like today’s Spring Festival event vividly demonstrate that our partnership extends far beyond trade agreements and diplomatic protocols. ASEAN and China share a deep, mature, and resilient relationship that will continue to grow and strengthen on the solid foundation of mutual respect, shared interests, and a common vision for peace, stability and prosperity in the region.

Li Pan, Director of the Information Office of the People’s Government of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, stated in his address that Guangxi is honored to host this event at the ASEAN Headquarters. As the permanent host city of the China-ASEAN Expo, Guangxi serves as an important platform for China-ASEAN economic and trade cooperation and cultural exchanges. Guangxi is working with ASEAN countries to build an artificial intelligence development path of “R&D in Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou + Integration in Guangxi + Application in ASEAN”, and actively creating a new trade chain of “Production in ASEAN + Distribution in Guangxi + Sales in China”. In 2026, Guangxi will work hand in hand with all sectors of ASEAN to forge ahead and strengthen the neighborly bond between China and ASEAN over time.

II. Celebrating the Spring Festival and Savoring the Festive Flavors

The event invited guests from around the world to gather together, celebrating the Spring Festival for the Year of the Horse, savoring the flavors of the Chinese Spring Festival, and appreciating the beauty of the arts. The opening performance, “The Beauty of China: Guangxi’s Zhuang Ethnic Charm”, featured a symbolic dance and connected it with a classic excerpt from the Caidiao Opera “Liu Sanjie”, including the “Antiphonal Song”, creating an artistic masterpiece that blends Eastern poetry with innovative ingenuity. The Chinese instrumental performance, “Chinese Chic Performance for Celebrating the Spring Festival of the Year of the Horse”, featured erhu and suona as the main instruments, playing classic melodies such as the theme song from “Journey to the West” and “Black Myth: Wukong”, converging into a “National Trend IP Music Festival”. When Guangxi ethnic instruments, the maguhu (horse-bone fiddle) and the bolie, met Indonesian gamelan, Chinese and Indonesian musicians jointly performed classics like “Jasmine Flower” and “Folk Songs Like Spring River Water”making the phrase “high mountains and flowing water meet a kindred spirit” more concrete and creating a lasting artistic resonance.

During the event, Guangxi Daily (Guangxi International Communication Center), Guangxi Radio and Television, together with ASEAN media such as TVRI, El John TV, and Harian Inhua, jointly launched the China-ASEAN Spring Festival Short Video Exhibition Week. Using short videos as a link, the event showcased the joyous scenes of China and ASEAN countries celebrating the Spring Festival together from multiple dimensions, inviting netizens around the world to jointly celebrate the Chinese Spring Festival as a global festival through the Internet.

III. Savoring the Cultural Gathering, Welcoming the Prosperous Spring Festival

On the same day, the “Spring Blessings for Success at the Year of the Horse” Chinese Spring Festival Cultural Exhibition and the “Instant Joy Market” Spring Festival Cultural Market were held simultaneously at the ASEAN Headquarters. Guests from various countries experienced the hospitality of “Tea Harmonies the World” through immersive experiences that included playing, appreciating, and tasting, creating “Ancient Charm and Blessings” calligraphy and painting rubbings, admiring the exquisite paper-cutting art, and enjoying a feast of Spring Festival delicacies from all directions.

The most surprising experience for the guests was exploring the smart future using Guangxi’s cutting-edge AI technology. Guests from various countries experienced intelligent translation devices and wore AR glasses, immersing themselves in barrier-free communication and exploring the thousand-year-old legend of the Zuojiang Huashan Rock Art Cultural Landscape. Hardy Chung, a reporter from Harian Inhua, remarked that China’s AI technology not only accurately depicted the beautiful scenery of the Spring Festival but also vividly expressed the touching story of ASEAN and China being connected by mountains and seas and sharing good neighborly friendship, presenting a beautiful picture of cooperation towards the future.

On February 4th, two “Instant Blessings” Pop-Up Events were held at the Halim Station of the Jakarta-Bandung High-Speed Railway and the Mall Central Park in Jakarta, Indonesia, creating a festive atmosphere for the Chinese Spring Festival. Performers from Guangxi presented a variety of acts including song, dance, opera, and puppetry, attracting many locals to participate in interactive activities, join in the “Guangxi Kemusan Dance”, and share the joy of the Spring Festival. Yi Yan, a social media blogger traveling and living in Indonesia, exclaimed, “This year’s Spring Festival atmosphere in Jakarta is different!”

This event attracted more than 20 media outlets, including People’s Daily, Xinhua News Agency, China Media Group, China News Service, TVRI, METRO TV, bolong.id, and Vietnam News Agency to report on the event and widely spread the concepts of peace, amity, and harmony in the Spring Festival to people at home and abroad.

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