Media OutReach

Decoding Yucun: How a Village’s Inspiring Evolution Illustrating China’s Green Growth Philosophy is showcased on National Ecology Day

Published

3 months ago

01/09/2025

HUZHOU, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 September 2025 – A series of activities highlighting ecological progress were held on August 15^th as the country embraces its third National Ecology Day. The focus is on protecting the ecological environment, addressing climate change and how China’s meteorological departments are taking action. This year it was Yucun Village, nestled in Anji County of Zhejiang Province in eastern China that took center-stage, becoming the most talked-about village in the country during the period.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the pivotal concept “Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets”—a guiding principle that has steered China’s green transition. Visitors from across the globe have flocked to this scenic village of Yucun where the concept was born, eager to trace the evolution of China’s economy from a resource-driven model to one centered on sustainability.

Tianhuangping Town, Anji County, Zhejiang Province

Over the past 20 years, this village has undergone a dramatic transformation. It hasn’t just rewritten its own fate; it has also shown how a nation’s commitment to green development can reshape rural landscapes and transform people’s lives.

Two decades ago, Yucun was known for a very different reason.

In the 1980s and 1990s, the 4.9-square-kilometer village thrived as Anji’s “richest village” thanks to its high-quality limestone reserves. But mining came at a steep ecological cost: “Blasting scared birds from the mountains; sand and gravel filled the air”—a vivid description of its environmental scars.

When the village resolved to shut down its mines and cement factories, few anticipated that this move would pave the way for a whole new development path. Today, the stone stele at the village entrance, inscribed with “Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets,” stands not only as a symbol of Yucun’s transformed development model but also as a beacon for resource integration.

In 2020, Yucun joined forces with four neighboring villages to form a 43-square-kilometer cluster. By the end of 2022, this expanded to 245 square kilometers, linking one town, two townships, and 23 villages. The “Greater Yucun” framework has turned the once-small village into a cross-regional development hub.

This expansion is far more than a simple increase in area. As Xu Jinjing, head of Tianhuangping Town, explains: “After closing the mines, we started rural guesthouses and rafting activities—that was Version 1.0 of practicing the green development concept. Now, ‘Greater Yucun’ is building industrial clusters for new economy, new cultural tourism, and new agriculture—that’s a leap to Version 2.0.”

The numbers tell the story of this upgrade: In 2024, the average collective operating income of villages in “Greater Yucun” reached 2.82 million yuan, an 11.5% year-on-year increase. Even more striking is the world-class pumped storage cluster here: Tianhuangping and Changlongshan power stations, with a combined installed capacity of 3.9 million kilowatts, have made green energy a new hallmark of “Greater Yucun.”

Industrial reforms have revitalized the countryside’s appeal. What was once a village of 280 households (1,060 people) now covers over 40,000 residents under the “Greater Yucun” umbrella. Tourism hit new heights in 2024, with Yucun welcoming 1.22 million visits and the broader “Greater Yucun” area exceeding 10 million.

This influx of people reflects a diverse landscape shaped by industrial shifts. Tourists come to savor its ecological beauty; new villagers arrive to seize opportunities in the industrial shifts；local residents enjoy expanding prospects right at their doorstep. Additionally, nearly 80,000 online users have registered as virtual villagers, with some 6,000 adopting farmland via the cloud and participating in local development.

“Efficient government services and ecological strengths make this more appealing than any urban office building,” says Duan Yi, CEO of Photoplus, who relocated his company’s headquarters here.

Despite growing larger, diversifying its industries, and welcoming more people, Yucun’s ecosystem remains unharmed—this is both the foundation of the concept of “Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets” and one of its core goals.

In 2021, Yucun was named one of the first Best Tourism Villages by the World Tourism Organization. Its 10 landmark scenes weave together attractions like lotus pond serenity, Longqing Temple’s spiritual ambiance, and the haunting beauty of abandoned mines.

Visitors can take sightseeing buses or scan codes to rent electric vehicles and explore the lanes. At 1,168 meters above sea level, a fairy town on grassland recreates a celestial realm, where mist-shrouded bamboo forests evoke the ethereal mood of the Oscar-winning film Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. An 18-kilometer winding mountain road leads to a year-round scenic spot that has become a must-visit for cyclists.

Beyond its natural beauty, Yucun buzzes with cultural fusion. Last July, French pianist Richard Clayderman performed in an abandoned mine, his music blending with the rustle of bamboo leaves—a perfect metaphor for ecological transformation.

Zhuo Li, who moved from Shanghai, traded the bustle of skyscrapers for a European-style blue villa here, where she runs a mountain biking business. “I came to live and work here because of the stunning scenery and the relaxed rural lifestyle.”

Over 20 years, Yucun has shifted from selling limestone to forging a sustainable path where ecology and industry thrive together—a testament to the vitality of green development.

As early as 2016, the UN Environment Programme released a report on the concept of “Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets,” highlighting China’s efforts to integrate ecological progress into national planning. Today, the 572 national ecological civilization demonstration zones and 240 green development bases exploring models like “trading green protection for prosperity” and “turning collective green into shared wealth” all trace their roots to this small village.

As “Greater Yucun” continues to grow and more young dreamers arrive, the village is penning more stories of harmony between humans and nature, and of industry and ecology boosting each other.

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

Media OutReach

Payment Options Singapore Secures In-Principle Approval from MAS for Major Payment Institution Licence

Published

15 hours ago

08/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 December 2025 – Payment Options Pte Ltd, a Singapore-based payment solutions provider, is pleased to announce that it has received In-Principle Approval (IPA) from the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) for a Major Payment Institution (MPI) licence under the Payment Services Act 2019.

Payment Options Pte Ltd office in Singapore

This milestone underscores Payment Options’ commitment to supporting Singapore’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with simple, secure, and accessible digital payment solutions.

If granted the licence, Payment Options Pte Ltd will be authorised to provide three regulated payment services: Merchant Acquisition, Domestic Money Transfer, and Cross-Border Money Transfer. Through these services, the company aims to empower SMEs with a full suite of payment capabilities — from online payment gateways and QR code payments to the upcoming SoftPOS payments technology — enabling merchants to accept digital payments easily and securely.

“We remain deeply committed to supporting Singapore’s SMEs as they grow and compete in an increasingly digital-first economy. Our vision is to position digital payments as a growth enabler — not a challenge — for small businesses”, said Aaron Yip, Director of Payment Options Pte Ltd. “Our goal is to make digital transactions seamless, secure, and accessible for every business, regardless of size.”

Building on this vision, if the licence is granted, Payment Options will continue to work closely with local merchants, financial institutions, and technology partners to enhance payment accessibility and drive innovation across Singapore’s SME ecosystem.

“We reaffirm our commitment to regulatory compliance and innovation, as we contribute to Singapore’s ongoing journey toward a secure, inclusive, and cash-lite economy.”

The IPA granted by the MAS indicates that a licence may be issued upon the fulfilment of specified conditions and provided there are no material adverse developments affecting the applicant. The IPA does not constitute a licence to provide payment services at this stage, and MAS reserves the right to rescind the approval if it deems appropriate.
Hashtag: #PaymentOptions

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

About Payment Options Pte Ltd

Payment Options Pte Ltd is a Singapore-based financial technology company providing innovative and secure payment solutions designed to help SMEs and merchants simplify digital transactions. With a focus on compliance, technology, and customer experience, the company aims to make digital payments accessible for every business.

Media OutReach

Financial Assistance at SIM: Breaking Barriers to Education

Published

16 hours ago

08/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 December 2025 – For many aspiring learners, financial constraints remain one of the biggest obstacles to achieving their goals. SIM is determined to change that. Guided by the principle that no student should be left behind because of cost, SIM has built a comprehensive ecosystem of financial aid, scholarships, and bursaries to make quality education attainable for all.

At the heart of this mission is the SIM Impact Fund, a S$60 million initiative dedicated to empowering students from diverse backgrounds and ensuring that financial hardship never stands in the way of academic or personal growth. By blending need-based assistance with merit-driven opportunities, SIM is creating an inclusive learning environment where talent and ambition define success.

Empowering Learners Through the SIM Impact Fund

In 2024, SIM introduced the SIM Impact Fund, a S$60 million initiative dedicated to supporting students from lower-income households and ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder educational aspirations. Administered through SIM Trust, the fund is designed to empower learners within and beyond SIM’s community by removing barriers to access. Beginning in 2025, Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents with a per-capita income of S$1,750 or below can benefit from tiered assistance, ranging from S$6,000 up to S$13,500 for those with PCI of S$600 or less, S$4,500 to S$6,750 for PCI between S$601 and S$1,000, and S$2,000 for PCI between S$1,001 and S$1,750. Beyond tuition aid, the fund also provides support for overseas internships and merit-based scholarships, benefiting approximately 500 students annually.

Beyond Tuition: Comprehensive Financial Aid

SIM’s commitment to learning accessibility goes far beyond tuition subsidies. Through its Financial Assistance schemes, students can tap into a range of support options tailored to different needs. These include Enhanced Bursaries Aid, which provide up to S$13,500 per year for Singapore Citizens, and a SIM GE Crisis Fund offering emergency relief of up to S$5,000 for unforeseen circumstances. In addition, SIM encourages global exposure through Study Abroad Awards, enabling students to broaden their horizons without financial strain. Together, these initiatives reflect SIM’s ethos of inclusivity and resilience, ensuring that financial challenges never derail academic aspirations.

Community-Focused Support

The Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre (RESSEC) exemplifies SIM’s deep-rooted commitment to community empowerment and social impact. Launched in July 2024 in partnership with the late Dr Eu’s family,

RESSEC received a combined S$8 million donation, S$6 million from the Eu family and S$2 million from SIM, marking a significant investment in nurturing social entrepreneurship. Guided by Dr Eu’s vision of transforming social service through ethical leadership and innovation, the Centre equips learners and social service professionals via initiatives such as a specialised postgraduate Diploma in Social Entrepreneurship, mentorship, and collaborative dialogues.

RESSEC also provides 12 bursaries of S$10,000 each for SIM Global Education students (check that this is accurate and that it’s not also extended to those outside the SIM ecosystem) who demonstrate strong community service and leadership and those with per-capita income up to S$1,750, prioritising those with per-capita income less than S$1,000. Through this initiative, SIM embeds purpose-driven learning into its mission, empowering students to create sustainable, positive impact in Singapore and beyond

Scholarship for Excellence

SIM offers a diverse range of scholarships under SIM Global Education to recognize excellence and resilience among its students. These include the SIM STARRR Award, which provides up to S$36,000 to outstanding achievers who demonstrate academic distinction and leadership qualities, and the Sports & Arts Talent Award, also valued at S$15,000 for students who excel in athletic or artistic pursuits. Additionally, the Chairman’s Award for Resilience grants S$3,000 to students who successfully balance work and study commitments, showcasing perseverance in the face of challenges. Together, these scholarships complement SIM’s need-based financial aid, creating a holistic support system that rewards merit while ensuring inclusivity.

Conclusion: Building a Future Without Barriers

SIM’s financial assistance framework is more than a set of policies, it is a promise to the community. By investing in initiatives like the SIM Impact Fund and expanding bursaries and scholarships, SIM is actively dismantling the barriers that prevent talented individuals from reaching their potential. This approach does not just benefit students, it strengthens society by cultivating a diverse pool of graduates equipped to lead, innovate, and give back. In a world where education often comes with a hefty price tag, SIM stands out as a beacon of accessibility and empowerment. For students and families seeking assurance that quality education is within reach, SIM offers not just hope but a clear, actionable path forward.

References:

Bursaries & Financial Aid (Enhanced) – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/bursaries-and-financial-aids
Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre (RESSEC) – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/sim-global-education/ressec
The Dr Richard K M Eu – SIM Social Entrepreneurship Centre (RESSEC) Opens to Advance Singapore’s Social Sector – https://www.sim.edu.sg/news-events/the-dr-richard-k-m-eu-sim-social-entrepreneurship-centre-%28ressec%29-opens
SIM Scholarship – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships
SIM’s STARRR Award – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/sim-starrr-award-for-new-undergraduate-students
SIM Award and Sports & Artistic Award – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/sim-global-education-scholarship
SIM Global Education Diploma Scholarships – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/sim-global-education-diploma-scholarships
Chairman’s Award for Resilience – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/admissions/scholarships/chairman-s-award-for-resilience

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 16,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 36% 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 sim.edu.sg

Media OutReach

Beyond Academic Excellence: SIM Scholarships Champion Leadership, Resilience, and Talent

Published

1 day ago

07/12/2025

Media Outreach

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 7 December 2025 – The Singapore Institute of Management (SIM) is proud to reaffirm its commitment to developing future-ready graduates through a comprehensive scholarship framework that goes beyond academic achievement. These scholarships are designed to recognize and nurture qualities such as leadership, resilience, and talent. These attributes are essential for success in today’s dynamic global environment.

For decades, scholarships have been synonymous with academic excellence. SIM is redefining this narrative by adopting a holistic approach that values character, contribution, and courage alongside academic performance. This initiative reflects SIM’s mission to prepare graduates who are adaptable, innovative, and socially responsible.

Scholarships That Go Beyond Academics

SIM’s scholarship ecosystem reflects its belief that success is multidimensional. Rather than focusing solely on grades, these awards celebrate qualities such as resilience, leadership, and talent. The SIM STARRR Award, for instance, supports freshmen who embody Resilience, Resourcefulness, and Responsibility, offering up to S$36,000 in tuition fees, along with living and exchange allowances, without any bond requirement.

For students who shine in sports or the arts, the SIM Award & Sports/Artistic Talent Award provides S$15,000, disbursed in two tranches, to help them balance academic and extracurricular excellence.

International students pursuing diploma programmes can benefit from the Diploma Scholarships, which cover up to 100% of course fees for academic excellence or 50% for merit-based achievements.

For working adults who have overcome significant challenges, the SIM Chairman’s Award for Resilience offers S$3,000, recognizing perseverance and determination in the face of adversity.

Stories That Inspire

SIM’s scholarships are more than financial aid. They are catalysts for transformation, opening doors for students to turn challenges into triumphs. Take Ernita Tanudjaja, an international student who refused to let pandemic disruptions derail her ambitions. Instead, she leveraged technology to livestream events and boost engagement, showcasing resilience and resourcefulness.

Similarly, Chow Kah Ying, an ICU nurse, managed the intense demands of frontline healthcare during COVID-19 while completing her degree, showcasing perseverance and purpose. Likewise, Michelle Seah transformed O-level failure into triumph, excelling in javelin and academics to earn the SIM Sports & Artistic Talent Award, proof that determination and discipline can rewrite any story.

These journeys reflect SIM’s unwavering belief that leadership and resilience matter as much as grades, and that true achievement lies in character and contribution as much as in academic performance.

The Broader Vision

SIM’s scholarships represent more than financial assistance. They serve as a strategic platform for transformation and growth. Recipients benefit from networking opportunities that connect them with alumni and industry leaders, fostering mentorship and career development. Many scholarships also provide international exposure through exchange programmes that broaden perspectives and enhance global competencies.

In addition to academic achievement, students cultivate essential life skills such as leadership, resilience and adaptability through experiential learning and community engagement. These qualities equip graduates to excel in uncertain environments and contribute meaningfully to society.

This commitment reflects SIM’s core belief that education is not limited to examinations. It is about shaping leaders who create impact and drive positive change in a rapidly evolving world.

References: