Connect with us

Media OutReach

De Beers Group Celebrates Natural Diamonds, Culture And Long-Lasting Values

Published

on

Showcase of 28.88-carat flawless diamond

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 23 April 2026 – De Beers Group brought the timeless allure of natural diamonds to Carlyle & Co on 21 April in a soirée celebrating natural diamonds, culture and long-lasting values.

In Conversation with A Diamond is Forever’, (top left) Kathy Chow wears Claudia Ma Fine Jewellery, (top right) Janet Ma and Michael Wong wear pieces from Hearts On Fire; Fireside chat with industry experts and special guests (bottom from left to right): Sophia Yu, Stewart Young, Janet Ma, Michael Wong, Loletta Lai and Christina Ko.

Media members, influencers, and lifestyle tastemakers gathered in the Reading Room for intimate conversations and book appreciation, with select guests also taking part in a reflective meditation. Special guests included supermodels Kathy Chow, Janet Ma, and actor Michael Wong—who once appeared in the original A Diamond Is Forever campaigns—alongside Stewart Young, Senior Director and Head of the Jewellery Department at Sotheby’s; Loletta Lai, Natural Diamond APAC VP, De Beers Group; Christina Ko, founder of Good Peoples; and Sophia Yu, Managing Director & Publisher of SCMP Hearst.

The gathering rode on the recent London launch of A Diamond Is Forever – The Making of A Cultural Icon, published by Assouline. The book offers a lens into the phrase’s role in collective memory since its 1947 inception by copywriter Mary Frances Gerety, and natural diamonds’ influence on ideas of love, beauty and commitment across time.

Loletta Lai and Stewart Young led conversations that delved into diamonds’ place in culture and their journey from origin to auction. Their meaningful dialogues explored how natural diamonds continue to inspire generations to generations as both natural treasures and catalysts for cultural expression.

De Beers Group’s Natural Diamonds APAC VP, Loletta Lai said: “Through compelling narratives, innovative product launches, high-impact partnerships, and cultural resonance, we reignite desire for natural diamonds fueled by our iconic tagline “A Diamond is Forever.”

The event highlighted The De Beers Jwaneng 28.88 —a Flawless, D-colour, Type IIa diamond from Botswana’s Jwaneng Mine. Originated from a 114.83-carat rough—the stunning diamond is set for auction in Hong Kong on 23 April at Sotheby’s Live High Jewellery Sale. The sale elevated its brilliance, provenance and legacy to the world stage.

The De Beers Jwaneng 28.88, a remarkable 28.88-carat D-colour, flawless diamond, takes centre stage at the event, with a 3.03-carat D-colour pear-shaped internally flawless diamond ring, and a pair of 2.00-carat & 2.01-carat D-colour internally flawless diamond earrings.
The De Beers Jwaneng 28.88, a remarkable 28.88-carat D-colour, flawless diamond, takes centre stage at the event, with a 3.03-carat D-colour pear-shaped internally flawless diamond ring, and a pair of 2.00-carat & 2.01-carat D-colour internally flawless diamond earrings.

“The legacy of natural diamonds being worn by royalties can be traced back from thousands of years ago. Exceptional diamonds are sought after by discerning collectors due to their rarity, intrinsic qualities and long-lasting values.” Stewart Young, Senior director and Head of the Jewellery Department at Sotheby’s indicated.

Adding a contemplative dimension to the afternoon, Christina Ko, founder of Good Peoples guided an inner radiance diamond meditation. Set to contemporary music, this breath-based session invited participants to be mesmerized by a natural diamond’s metaphysical properties, embody its brilliance, strength and resilience, and unleash their unique radiance. Ko specialises in unconventional breathwork, meditation and intuitive card readings.Hashtag: #debeersgroup #adiamondisforever #naturaldiamonds #diamonds #Sothebys #Assouline





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

About De Beers Group

Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with diamond mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers Jewellers and Forevermark, and other pioneering solutions such as diamond sourcing and traceability initiatives Tracr and GemFair. De Beers Group also provides leading services and technology to the diamond industry in the form of education and laboratory services via De Beers Institute of Diamonds and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology systems via De Beers Group Ignite. De Beers Group is committed to ‘Building Forever,’ a holistic and integrated approach for creating a better future – where safety, human rights and ethical integrity continue to be paramount; where communities thrive and the environment is protected; and where there are equal opportunities for all. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo American PLC group. For further information, visit .

THE DE BEERS JWANENG 28.88

An exceptional 28.88‑carat brilliant‑cut diamond of D colour, Flawless clarity and rare Type IIa classification, this remarkable stone was discovered at Botswana’s renowned Jwaneng Mine and originated from an extraordinary 114.83‑carat rough. It is a vanishingly rare gift of nature that embodies both De Beers’ unparalleled diamond legacy and a masterclass in cutting and polishing. The stunning diamond will be offered at auction in Hong Kong on 23 April at Sotheby’s Live High Jewellery Sale.

A Diamond Is Forever: The Making of a Cultural Icon 1926–2026

Published in partnership with Assouline, the book explores how De Beers transformed diamonds into a universal symbol of love and commitment, anchored by Mary Frances Gerety’s legendary slogan, “A Diamond Is Forever.” Spanning a century of art, fashion, advertising, and popular culture, it discovers the power of storytelling in shaping modern luxury. The book was launched in London in March 2026, marking a landmark celebration of De Beers’ enduring cultural legacy.

Loletta Lai, Natural Diamonds APAC VP, De Beers Group

Loletta Lai has spearheaded natural diamond communications for De Beers Group across the APAC since 2021 and was appointed earlier this year as Natural Diamond APAC VP, at De Beers Group. Leveraging her extensive expertise in public relations and her deep understanding of diamond culture, she is responsible for crafting and executing communication strategies and marketing campaigns across the APAC region, aimed at enhancing awareness and trust in natural diamonds among consumers, media and key opinion leaders.

Stewart Young, Senior Director and Head of the Jewellery Department, Sotheby’s

Based in Hong Kong, Stewart leads the Asia team across jewellery auctions and private sales, while also collaborating with the Salon team on the retail side of the business. With over two decades of experience in the global jewellery auction market, he began his career at Sothebys in 2007. His rapid ascent in the industry is supported by a distinctive background as a couture designer, complemented by experience in art and costume direction for film and stage.

Stewart has designed numerous high-jewellery pieces for auction, including an exceptional 102-carat Fancy Vivid Yellow diamond necklace that achieved USD 9 million. Over the course of his career, he has brought several record-breaking jewels to market, including a 7.59-carat Fancy Vivid Blue diamond ring (USD 20 million), an Imperial jadeite demi-parure (USD 12.8 million), and an unmounted 30.10-carat Very Light Pink diamond (USD 2.6 million).

Sophia Yu, Managing Director & Publisher of SCMP Hearst

Sophia Yu is the Managing Director & Publisher of SCMP Hearst, where she oversees brand development, business strategy and editorial direction for five leading luxury and lifestyle media brands in Hong Kong: Cosmopolitan, ELLE, Harper’s BAZAAR, Esquire and ELLE Men. Under her leadership, the five media brands have successfully transformed from traditional print media into prominent digital players, reaching over four million digital audiences monthly and amassing a social following of more than 3.5 million users.

Christina Ko, Founder of Good Peoples

Christina Ko is the founder of Good Peoples, a creative wellness studio that reimagines mindfulness through a contemporary perspective. Her offerings span pop-music-led breathwork journeys, writing workshops that incorporate meditation, and intuitive readings using her signature Hong Kong-themed oracle cards.

This distinctive approach is shaped by her background as an editor and content strategist, where she worked with global brands and publications including Louis Vuitton and the Financial Times. Drawing on her expertise in storytelling and brand placemaking, Christina designs immersive experiences that push creative boundaries, evoke emotion, and invite deeper self-exploration.

Media OutReach

Banyan Group Residences Brings Latest Phuket Property Launches to Singapore

Published

on

Three new Laguna Phuket developments – spanning lakeside living, golf-front design and Angsana-branded luxury – to be showcased at Fairmont Singapore on 23–24 May

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 May 2026 – Banyan Group Residences is bringing three of its most anticipated new residential launches to Singapore this month, with a two-day sales exhibition taking place at Fairmont Singapore, Orchard Room (4F) on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 May 2026, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. The event offers Singapore buyers a rare opportunity to explore and invest in some of Phuket’s most compelling new addresses, with dedicated sales teams on hand for private consultations.

Angsana Golf Residences Topaz

The exhibitions follow a year of record residential sales for Banyan Group Residences, as growing numbers of global investors look to Phuket as a safe haven for capital – drawn by the island’s political stability, strong rental yields, year-round lifestyle appeal, and the relative value it continues to offer against comparable markets. Demand has been particularly robust from buyers across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, with Singapore consistently ranking among the Group’s top source markets worldwide.

The three projects on show represent some of the most exciting new additions to Laguna Phuket – Asia’s premier integrated resort destination – and span a range of living concepts, price points, and design inspirations, united by the hallmark quality and hospitality expertise of Banyan Group Residences, Asia’s leading branded residential developer by volume.

“Singapore has long been one of our most important buyer markets, and we’re delighted to be returning with what we believe is our strongest line-up yet,” said Stuart Reading, Managing Director of Banyan Group Residences. “Whether you’re looking for a holiday retreat, a permanent base in a world-class resort community, or a smart long-term investment, this exhibition offers something genuinely compelling. High-quality property in a prime location at Laguna Phuket still represents outstanding value compared to equivalent homes in Singapore or other major cities.”

Bellaguna Lake Residences

Brand new blocks of Bellaguna Lake Residences will be revealed for the first time at the exhibition. Set beside a shimmering lake within Laguna Phuket – steps from Bang Tao Beach – the development takes its design cues from the sleek lines of a contemporary luxury yacht. Five elegantly elongated buildings feature dark wave-like façades and warm, light-filled interiors, with generous private terraces overlooking the lagoon. Residences include one- to three-bedroom condominiums and two- to three-bedroom penthouses with private rooftop pools, as well as a brand new category of two-bedroom residences with private pool.

Bellaguna is Banyan Group Residences’ newest residential brand, conceived specifically for premium year-round living outside of hotel inventory – yet fully supported by the Group’s renowned hospitality management standards.

Bellaguna Golf Residences

Set on land that once formed part of Phuket’s historic tin-mining landscape, Bellaguna Golf Residences draws its design identity from that heritage – soft horizontal lines and sculpted contours reinterpreted through a contemporary tropical lens. Low-rise buildings unfold amid lush gardens and a signature free-form pool, overlooking the fairways of the championship Laguna Golf Phuket course. A brand new block has also just been released for this project, which features a compact one-bedroom configuration, alongside one- to three-bedroom condominiums and two- to three-bedroom penthouses with private pools and sunset golf views.

Angsana Golf Residences Topaz

Inspired by the clarity and elegance of the topaz gemstone, Angsana Golf Residences Topaz comprises three gracefully curved low-rise buildings set within Laguna Phuket, with Sino-Portuguese design accents that subtly reference Phuket’s cultural heritage. The development offers two- and three-bedroom residences and exclusive penthouses with private rooftop pools, all enjoying panoramic views of the golf course, mountains, and the Andaman Sea. A signature rooftop ring-shaped pool completes the picture.

Show units are now available for all three projects at the Laguna Property Sales Gallery.

Banyan Living

Banyan Group has recently launched Banyan Living, a residential rental and marketing platform created to support owners of branded residences across the Group’s portfolio, while offering guests a professionally managed alternative to traditional home‑sharing platforms.

Developed as a structured, hospitality-led rental ecosystem, Banyan Living enables private owners to generate income from their residences, while providing guests who rent the properties assurance of the design integrity and professional service standards associated with Banyan Group.

Why Phuket, Why Now

Phuket continues to attract growing international interest as both a lifestyle destination and an investment market. Within Laguna Phuket, nationals of some 70 countries have chosen to make the resort community their home, drawn by year-round tropical living, world-class amenities, international schools, medical facilities, and a level of quality and security that is difficult to match elsewhere in the region.

Banyan Group Residences anticipates launching up to USD 1 billion in new luxury residential projects in Phuket over the next two to three years, reflecting the Group’s confidence in the market and the enduring strength of demand from international buyers.

Prospective buyers are welcome to visit the exhibition at Fairmont Singapore, Orchard Room (4F), on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 May 2026, between 11:00 am and 6:00 pm. Private appointments can be arranged in advance by contacting the team directly.
Hashtag: #BanyanGroup #BanyanGroupResidences #LagunaPhuket

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

About Banyan Group

Banyan Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group” – SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans more than 100 properties, over 140 spas and galleries, and 20-plus branded residences in over 20 countries. Comprising 12 global brands, including the flagship Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme with Banyan. The founding ethos of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People” is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Management Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience.

About Laguna Phuket

Laguna Phuket is Asia’s premier integrated resort destination, set against the stunning backdrop of the Andaman Sea. Spanning over 1,000 acres, the resort features six luxury hotels, an award-winning 18-hole golf course, fine dining, luxury spas, and branded residences. Guests benefit from complimentary shuttle services, a cashless payment system, and access to world-class recreational and wellness facilities.

About Banyan Group Residences

Banyan Group Residences is the property development arm of leading hospitality pioneer Banyan Group, listed on the stock exchange of Singapore. With over 35 years of development experience and an impressive portfolio of residential brands to suit different lifestyles and budgets, it is Thailand’s leading lifestyle property developer with a strong and increasingly international pipeline of projects. The Group’s main residential brands include the flagship luxury Banyan Tree Residences, Angsana Residences, Dhawa Residences, Garrya Residences, Laguna Residences, Cassia Residences, Skypark, Laguna Lakelands, and Bellaguna.

Continue Reading

Media OutReach

CPF NH Foods Advances to Production Phase, Launches ‘CP Nippon’ Brand in Premium Processed Pork Partnership

Published

on

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 May 2026 – Charoen Pokphand Foods Public Company Limited (CPF) and NH Foods Ltd. today announced that their joint venture, CPF NH Foods Co., Ltd., has officially commenced production at its modern manufacturing facility in Chachoengsao, Thailand, alongside the launch of a new premium brand, CP Nippon.

The start of operations follows the successful establishment of the joint venture in late 2025, combining CPF’s fully integrated supply chain and regional distribution network with NH Foods’ advanced food processing technologies and product development expertise. The facility now serves as the production hub for a new generation of high-quality processed meat products, targeting both domestic and export markets including Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and other key Asian destinations.

Prasit Boondoungprasert, Chief Executive Officer of CPF, said “Starting production and introducing CP Nippon brand mark an important milestone in our partnership with NH Foods. This collaboration enables us to move beyond primary production to premium processed products, creating greater value for Thailand’s pork industry while strengthening its position as a key exporter across Asia.”

The manufacturing facility integrates advanced production systems and stringent quality assurance processes aligned with international standards, reinforcing both companies’ commitment to food safety, traceability, and sustainability. By leveraging CPF’s high-quality raw material sourcing and NH Foods’ precision manufacturing know-how, the joint venture aims to set new benchmarks in processed meat production.

Fumio Maeda, President and Chief Executive Officer of NH Foods, added “The commencement of production represents a key milestone in our collaboration with CPF. By combining our strengths in technology and product innovation with CPF’s operational excellence, we are bringing together the rich culinary traditions of Japan and Thailand to deliver refined, high-quality food experiences to consumers across Asia.”

The product range under CP Nippon brand reflects NH Foods’ Japanese culinary expertise—rooted in the craftsmanship of ryōrinin—combined with CPF’s strength in high-quality sourcing and production.

Beyond product innovation, CPF NH Foods is committed to sustainable manufacturing practices, including efficient resource utilization and environmentally responsible operations, in line with CPF’s “Kitchen of the World” vision and both companies’ long-term sustainability goals.

Hashtag: #AsianFoodInnovation #CPFNHFoods #CPFNippon #KitchenOfTheWorld #FoodInnovation #CPF

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

About Charoen Pokphand Foods Plc (CPF)

Charoen Pokphand Foods Plc (CPF) is a leading global agro-industrial and food company, operating in 17 countries and exporting to more than 50 markets worldwide. Guided by its “Kitchen of the World” vision, CPF focuses on delivering safe, high-quality, and nutritious food through a vertically integrated business model. The company integrates technology and innovation across its operations while advancing sustainability and working toward a low-carbon, resilient food system that supports global food security.

About NH Foods
NH Foods Ltd., operates in the food industry with a focus on meat products and related processed foods. The group conducts its business globally, and targets both domestic and international markets for its diversified protein and food solutions portfolio.

Continue Reading

Media OutReach

Student Life and Campus Communities Are Becoming a Key Deciding Factor in Higher Education

Published

on

SINGAPORE- Media OutReach Newswire – 14 May 2026 – Beyond academic rankings and programme offerings, students today are placing increasing emphasis on campus life, wellbeing support, and a sense of belonging when choosing where to pursue higher education.

This shift reflects a broader trend across the sector, where institutions are being evaluated not only on academic outcomes, but also on their ability to provide holistic student experiences that support mental wellbeing, social integration, and career readiness.

At the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM), student engagement has become a central pillar of the learning experience, with a wide network of student led clubs and communities designed to support both personal and professional development.

A Growing Priority: Belonging and Wellbeing

Industry observations indicate that students, particularly those transitioning from secondary education or arriving from overseas, often face challenges such as social isolation, cultural adjustment, and limited peer support networks. Research also highlights that being away from familiar support systems and adapting to a new cultural and academic environment can be an isolating process, contributing to increased stress, anxiety, and reduced perceived social support

To address this, SIM has developed a structured student life ecosystem supported by its Student Development initiatives and programmes such as Project1095, which emphasises learning beyond the classroom and holistic growth. With close to 80 student clubs and co-curricular activities available, students are provided with multiple avenues to build connections and integrate into campus life.

From Co-Curricular Activities to Career Readiness

Student clubs are increasingly seen as more than recreational clubs, playing a meaningful role in preparing students for the workforce. Participation in such communities enables students to develop transferable skills aligned with employer expectations, including leadership, collaboration, and communication.

At SIM, student led initiatives span a broad spectrum, from arts and cultural groups that foster creativity and teamwork through performances and events, to sports and wellness communities that promote physical resilience and discipline. Leadership platforms such as student councils provide opportunities for students to organise initiatives and represent the student body, while international student communities support cultural integration and inclusivity.

In addition, special interest and professional clubs offer exposure to industry trends and peer led learning. Collectively, these platforms provide practical experiences that complement academic programmes and contribute to graduates’ overall employability.

Reflecting a Broader Shift in Higher Education

The increasing importance placed on student life reflects a wider evolution in higher education, where institutions are expected to support both academic achievement and personal development.

By investing in student communities and engagement, institutions like SIM are responding to this shift, providing environments where students can not only gain qualifications, but also build networks, resilience, and a strong sense of identity.

As prospective students weigh their options, the availability of vibrant campus communities and support systems is likely to remain a key differentiator in the higher education landscape.

Reference:

  1. The experience of loneliness among international students participating in the BBC Loneliness Experiment: Thematic analysis of qualitative survey data – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666518223000189?
  2. Mental health concerns and needs of international students in higher education settings: A scoping review protocol – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12334020/
  3. SIM CCA – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/co-curricular-activities
  4. SIM Project 1095 – https://project1095.simge.edu.sg/

Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills

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

About SIM Global Education

SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 17,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 41% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.

SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.

For more information on SIM Global Education, visit

Continue Reading

Trending