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Dr. Gunther von Hagens, Inventor of Plastination & Creator of BODY WORLDS, Has Passed Away

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HEIDELBERG, GERMANY – Newsaktuell – 27 July 2026 – It is with deep sadness that the family and the Institute for Plastination announce the passing of Dr. Gunther von Hagens, inventor of Plastination and creator of the BODY WORLDS exhibitions. He died on July 24, 2026, at the age of 81.

Dr. Gunther von Hagens, Inventor of Plastination & Creator of the BODY WORLDS exhibitions, 1945-2026

Gunther von Hagens fundamentally transformed the field of anatomy. Through Plastination—the preservation techni­que he invented in 1977—he created an entirely new perspective of the human body for medical education, science and the general public. He made the complexity, vulnerability and beauty of the human body—previously reserved for the dissection room and anatomical textbooks –directly accessible to the wider public.

Together with his wife and curator, Dr. Angelina Whalley, Gunther von Hagens created BODY WORLDS, one of the most successful exhibitions in the world. Since its debut, the exhibition has been visited by more than 58 million people. BODY WORLDS made anatomy publicly accessible, encouraged reflection on health, disease, lifestyle and mortality, and inspired millions of people understand and appreciate their own bodies.

“Gunther wanted to give people the opportunity to look beneath the skin — not out of sensationalism, but from the deep conviction that knowledge of one’s own body can contribute to a more conscious, healthier responsible life,” says Angelina Whalley. “His work was scientific, educational and deeply humanistic. He enabled millions of people to see their own bodies in a new light.”

His son, Rurik von Hagens, also honors his father’s life’s work, “My father never accepted that boundaries were fixed. He brought anatomy out of the closed world of specialists and into society. His courage, his perseverance and his unwavering belief that education serves humanity will continue to guide us.”

Gunther von Hagens was a pioneer, researcher, inventor and creator. His life’s work united scientific precision with exceptional craftsmanship, artistic expression and a strong commitment to education. He was an unconventional and often provocative thinker who sparked heated debates, overcame resistance and understood anatomy as an encoun­ter with life itself.

Body donation was always a central part of his work. The human specimens displayed in the BODY WORLDS come from individuals who, during their lifetime, decided to donate their bodies after death for Plastination, scientific research and anatomical education. Gunther von Hagens was deeply grateful to these individuals. He regarded their decision as an extraordinary contribution to education, science and public enlightenment.

It was Gunther von Hagens’ own wish that his body, too, be made available for Plastination after his death. His family will respect and carry out this wish.

Despite serious illness, Gunther von Hagens remained closely connected to his life’s work. The Plastination technique he developed, the Institute for Plastination, the PLASTINARIUM and the BODY WORLDS exhibitions will carry his legacy forward. His scientific and craftsmanship-based legacy lives on in a particularly visible way in Guben. There, at the PLASTINARIUM, anatomical specimens are created for use in the education of physicians and other healthcare professionals at universities, medical schools and educational institutions around the world.

Today, Plastination itself is used at numerous universities, medical schools and educational institutions worldwide.

In this way, the mission Gunther von Hagens began nearly five decades ago continues far beyond BODY WORLDS:

to preserve anatomy permanently, to make it visible, and to make it accessible for science, teaching and public edu­cation.

The family kindly asks that their privacy be respected during this time of mourning.

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

About Dr. Gunther von Hagens

Dr. Gunther von Hagens was born on January 10, 1945, in Alt-Skalden, in what is now Poland, and grew up in the GDR. After studying medicine, he invented Plastination at the University of Heidelberg in 1977—a technique for the permanent preservation of biological specimens. In 1993, he founded the Institute for Plastination in Heidelberg, followed in 2006 by the PLASTINARIUM in Guben, which has for many years served as the central laboratory facility for Plastination. With the BODY WORLDS exhibitions, he made human anatomy accessible to audiences around the world. His work transfor­med anatomical education and became one of the most recognized intersections of science, medicine and public exhibition in the world.

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Welcome to juju world: Pacific Place x CJ Hendry Unveil Hong Kong’s First Large-Scale juju Experience This Summer

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Get ready for juju’s Great Fluffy Summer at Pacific Place this July

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 July 2026 – Pacific Place is delighted to announce juju world, a summer collaboration with internationally acclaimed Australian artist CJ Hendry, running from 23 July to 16 August 2026. Conceived and produced in partnership with creative house Pen & Paper, the event marks Hong Kong’s first large-scale juju experience, transforming the shopping destination into an immersive world inspired by Hendry’s collectible character. The event will feature a Hong Kong exclusive merchandise collection, a wide range of interactive experiences, and seasonal shopping rewards. Pacific Place is set to be the city’s most talked-about cultural and retail destination this summer.

Pacific Place x CJ Hendry Unveil Hong Kong’s First Large-Scale juju Experience This Summer

Who is juju?

Created by CJ Hendry, juju is a collectible character recognised for its floppy ears, flower eye and playful personality. Occupying a unique space in contemporary collectible culture, juju is both an objet d’art and an emotional companion. This summer, juju arrives in Hong Kong in a spectacular new form.

A Planet Has Landed at Pacific Place

At the heart of this whimsical universe is the juju Planet, a vibrant centrepiece surrounded by a colourful wonderland of oversized trees and fluffy clouds of pom-poms, with larger-than-life juju characters welcoming you with open arms. Touch, explore and trigger surprises — every interaction transforms juju world into an unforgettable, multi-sensory adventure for dreamers of all ages.

juju world

Dates: 23 July – 16 August 2026
Time: 10am – 10pm
Location: Garden Court, Level LG1
Entry: No registration required

Step into the Magic

juju Planet

Perched atop the planet is a gigantic juju, gently welcoming visitors into this surreal landscape.
Experience Pure Joy
The Dreamy Swing
Embrace your inner child by sitting on the swing with juju. Snap a photo with the tall, colourful trees — their joyful appearance is sure to bring back lots of happy memories.
The Fluffy Hideaway

juju Room

Step inside an immersive circular chamber where over 400 juju plushies line the walls, surrounding visitors in a sea of fluff.
The Mirror of Dreams

juju Infinity Mirror

Inspired by juju’s signature flower eye, this mirrored installation creates endless reflections of the playful world around it.
Gentle Giant
Meet the Giant juju
Standing an impressive two metres tall, the Giant juju welcomes visitors for an unforgettable up-close experience. Whether posing beside it, hugging it or capturing the perfect keepsake photo, this larger-than-life installation brings the beloved character to life.


CJ Hendry Unveils Hong Kong-Exclusive juju Collectibles

Created exclusively for Pacific Place, the shimmering collection introduces iridescent juju inspired by the city’s vibrant energy. On top of the nine standard versions, five additional secret versions will be added to the collection as a delightful surprise. Available in limited-edition blind boxes, each is housed in a specially designed shiny collectible tin, turning the act of unboxing into a unique experience. The fun continues as visitors unlock surprise accessories at the Capsule Toy Station and customise their juju with interchangeable flower eyes, outfits and more.

juju world Merchandise Store
juju world Merchandise Store

juju world Merchandise Store & Capsule Toy Station

Dates: 23 July – 16 August 2026
Time: 11am – 9pm
Location: Level L1, near Lane Crawford
Entry: Through member entry booking or on-site queue tickets (see details below)

The Collector’s Dream

juju world Merchandise Store

This is the only place in the world to find the rarest new jujus — the Hong Kong-exclusive limited collection, including both the standard and secret versions, alongside loveable 12″ juju plushies dip-dyed in rainbow ombré, and many more limited-edition summer essentials. Quantities are limited, so come early and ready to collect!

Visitors are required to register as above members to receive an On-site Queue ticket, distributed daily from 10am. Existing above blue, above gold, above platinum and above black members may also reserve entry in advance via the Pacific Place Mobile App.

Availability is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis while stocks last.

For more details, please visit the Pacific Place Website.

The Spin-and-Style Studio

juju Capsule Toy Station

Purchase a token, spin the capsule machine, and unlock a playful selection of accessories to style your juju exactly as you wish. Choose from clothing, hair ties, and earrings, alongside interchangeable flower eyes making their Hong Kong debut. Your juju will truly be like no other!

Stocks are available on a first-come, first-served basis.


A Summer Full of Rewards

juju world is the centrepiece of a summer season at Pacific Place designed to delight at every turn. From 23 July to 16 August, shopping at Pacific Place and Starstreet Precinct also unlocks the ‘Dreamlike Summer’ rewards programme, offering exclusive Pacific Place shopping e-Vouchers with designated same-day electronic spending, with eligible UnionPay cardholders enjoying additional rewards on top.

Accumulated Same-day
Electronic Spending
General Rewards* UnionPay Users Extra Rewards#
HK$5,000 – HK$34,999 HK$100 Pacific Place
Shopping e-Voucher
HK$50 Pacific Place
Shopping e-Voucher
HK$35,000 – HK$64,999 HK$600 Pacific Place
Shopping e-Voucher
HK$600 Pacific Place
Shopping e-Voucher
HK$65,000 – HK$119,999 HK$1,300 Pacific Place
Shopping e-Voucher
HK$1,300 Pacific Place
Shopping e-Voucher
HK$120,000 or above HK$2,400 Pacific Place
Shopping e-Voucher
HK$2,400 Pacific Place
Shopping e-Voucher

*General shoppers and eligible UnionPay users are required to join the Pacific Place Loyalty Programme – above and meet the accumulated same-day spending requirement by electronic payment during the Promotion Period in order to be entitled to redeem General Rewards and UnionPay Users Extra Rewards.

#To redeem the UnionPay Users Extra Rewards, shoppers must settle the relevant transaction(s) with UnionPay Credit and ATM Cards with the UnionPay logo, UnionPay Mobile Payment (including but not limited to Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Huawei Pay) or UnionPay QR Code (including UnionPay App or other App supporting UnionPay QR Code Payment), except the RMB cards issued by specific Hong Kong and Macau card issuing institutions. The qualified transaction(s) must be settled via the UnionPay network in full. WeChat Pay, Alipay and AlipayHK are not eligible for this Promotion. During the Promotion Period, UnionPay users are entitled to redeem the UnionPay Users Extra Rewards up to 5 times. UnionPay users must settle their payment by UnionPay when using the Shopping e-Vouchers from the Extra Rewards. Each shopper is entitled to a maximum of ONE redemption of Rewards per day. The Rewards are limited in quantity and are available on a first-come, first-served basis while stocks last.

Terms and Conditions apply.

Dates: 23 July – 16 August 2026
Time: 11am – 10pm
Location: Gift Redemption Counter on Level L2 (near Joyce)

This summer, Pacific Place becomes something more than a destination. It becomes a world. And juju can’t wait to welcome you in.

Hashtag: #jujuworldHK #ThePlaceForCollectibles #ThePlaceForjuju #PacificPlaceHK #CJHendry #juju

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

About CJ Hendry

CJ Hendry is an Australian, New York-based contemporary artist renowned for her hyper-realistic drawings and large-scale immersive installations. Known for creating ambitious, experiential exhibitions that invite public participation, Hendry has developed a distinctive practice that combines fine art, spectacle, and play. Her projects often explore themes of materiality, consumer culture, value, and perception, turning galleries into fully realized environments that challenge traditional ways of viewing art.

Hendry’s work has been exhibited internationally and collected worldwide, attracting a global audience through her unique ability to merge technical mastery with humour, accessibility, and immersive storytelling.

About Pacific Place

Located in the heart of Admiralty, Pacific Place is the destination for exceptional service and unique experiences. As a pioneer of innovative retail concepts in Hong Kong, Pacific Place continues to transform the retail scene by delighting visitors with an array of curated experiences through diversified offerings. Since its inception in 1988, Pacific Place has established itself as Hong Kong’s premier lifestyle hub, a mixed-use development that continues to evolve and grow as the ultimate destination to shop, dine, work, stay, relax and play. It houses one of Hong Kong’s largest collections of luxury brands and diverse dining offerings, making every visit a memorable one. In addition to being a prime transportation hub, Pacific Place is home to five Grade-A office towers, 268 serviced apartments, and four five-star hotels: The Conrad, Island Shangri-La, JW Marriott and Upper House Hong Kong.

Customer enquiry hotline: (852) 2844 8988 Website: www.pacificplace.com.hk
Facebook: @Pacific Place Hong Kong Instagram: @pacificplacehk
WeChat: @PacificPlaceHK XiaoHongShu: @Pacific Place HK

About Pen & Paper

Pen & Paper is an established Hong Kong–based creative agency. As the creative and production partner for juju world at Pacific Place, Pen & Paper is bringing artist CJ Hendry’s whimsical universe to Hong Kong, continuing her creative journey in Asia Pacific.

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UEM Edgenta Reinforces Commitment to Sarawak’s Infrastructure with Batang Lupar Bridge

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KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 July 2026 – UEM Edgenta Berhad (“UEM Edgenta” or “the Company”), a leading Asset Management and Infrastructure Solutions company serving as the appointed Project Management Consultant (PMC), continues to drive Sarawak’s infrastructure development forward. Following the successful completion of the Pan Borneo Highway Sarawak, the Company has further strengthened its project management capabilities through the monumental Sarawak Coastal Road and the Second Trunk Road (CSTR). A centrepiece of these RM11 billion mega infrastructure projects is the Batang Lupar 1 Bridge, officially launched by the Premier of Sarawak on 9 July. Standing as the longest river crossing bridge in Malaysia, this structure is more than just a marvel of concrete and steel; it serves as a critical artery designed to physically unify the state’s coastal road network.

Behind the completed structure linking Sebuyau to Triso lies the true story of the Batang Lupar 1 Bridge – a story of the quiet, relentless engineering determination that brought it to life. Spearheaded by Jabatan Kerja Raya Sarawak (JKR Sarawak) as the project’s principal team lead, delivering a mega-structure across one of the state’s most formidable rivers demanded an extraordinary level of technical governance. Working in close partnership with JKR Sarawak, UEM Edgenta provided the critical project management and technical oversight necessary to execute this ambitious vision safely and efficiently.

Spanning an immense 4.844 kilometers across the Batang Lupar estuary, this cable-stayed bridge crosses a major geographic barrier that has historically isolated coastal communities. The bridge forms part of the CSTR network, comprising 14 major bridges, including five (5) distinctive cable-stayed structures that have become icons of Sarawak’s infrastructure development. Constructing a structure of this scale requires driving deep foundation piles into complex riverbed soils and managing hundreds of thousands of metric tons of materials. As the PMC, UEM Edgenta was tasked with the immense responsibility of navigating these challenges, which meant aligning multiple contractors, ensuring international quality and safety compliance, and keeping a massive multi-year timeline on track despite unpredictable environmental variables.

Shaiful Subhan, Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of UEM Edgenta, commented on the scale of this technical orchestration, “Bridging massive geographical divides requires an arrangement of immense technical capabilities. At UEM Edgenta, our infrastructure solutions are designed to handle precisely this level of complexity, ensuring that the structural integrity and project management of the Batang Lupar 1 Bridge meet the highest international safety and quality standards.”

To execute this, UEM Edgenta brought cutting-edge project management technology to the forefront. A project of this magnitude requires more than traditional oversight; it demands high digital precision to meet stringent specifications. By leveraging real-time construction analytics combined with drone-assisted site reporting, UEM Edgenta and the project teams maintained total visibility over the nearly five (5) kilometer span to conduct stringent quality assurance. This tech-driven governance ensured every component was fabricated and installed to exact specifications before it even reached the water.

Crucially, the Company’s role on the ground extends beyond immediate project delivery; by actively integrating local Sarawakian engineers and contractors into these advanced BIM and drone methodologies, the project serves as a live incubator for specialised knowledge transfer, elevating the state’s internal capacity to manage future marine mega-structures.

The challenges of the Batang Lupar project were not solely topographical or structural; they were fiercely environmental. The river is notoriously dynamic, featuring aggressive tidal bores and fast-flowing currents. More pressingly, the Batang Lupar Basin is the natural habitat for one of the densest populations of estuarine saltwater crocodiles in the region, infamously ingrained in local history through the legend of Bujang Senang. For UEM Edgenta, managing site safety meant rewriting the standard operational playbook. Health, Safety, and Environment (HSE) governance had to extend beyond typical heavy machinery protocols to include strict maritime safety measures, tidal monitoring, and specialised ecological awareness. Achieving milestone man-hours without major incident in a challenging riverine environment known for strong tidal bores and estuarine crocodile populations is a testament to the rigorous safety culture the Company enforces on the ground.

Ultimately, the engineering expertise invested in the Batang Lupar 1 Bridge is measured not only by the structure itself, but by the lasting impact it will have on the people and communities it connects. For decades, traveling between the coastal towns separated by this massive river meant relying on ferry services, a bottleneck that stifled local commerce and delayed emergency services. By successfully overseeing the bridging of this gap, UEM Edgenta is supporting the Sarawak State Government in the latter’s effort to close massive socio-economic divides. The bridge is expected to significantly reduce travel times, unlock new investment opportunities along the coastal belt, strengthen agricultural supply chains, and improve rural communities’ access to essential healthcare and education hubs.

With Sarawak Day recently commemorated, the timing of this launch carries profound weight. Raihana Ahmad, Managing Director of Infrastructure Solutions at UEM Edgenta, reflects on the project’s deeper meaning the project embodies. “This bridge is a physical manifestation of unity. For us at UEM Edgenta, overseeing this project was a national duty. In line with Sarawak Day, we are immensely proud to see how our engineering oversight has helped turn a concrete structure into a vital lifeline that will bring shared prosperity to our rural and coastal communities.”

These efforts were recently recognised with the IEM Pinnacle Award 2026 in the Engineering & Construction category, presented by the Institution of Engineers Malaysia (IEM) at its 67th Annual Dinner & Awards Night. The award acknowledges UEM Edgenta’s role as the PMC, working alongside JKR Sarawak in delivering this flagship project.

Batang Lupar 1 Bridge stands today not just as the longest river-crossing bridge in the nation, but as a towering symbol of state pride and economic sovereignty. Behind its majestic span is the rigorous technical expertise and governance, technological innovation, and unyielding safety standards of UEM Edgenta quietly driving the realisation of Sarawak’s greatest infrastructural aspirations.

For further information on UEM Edgenta, log on to https://www.uemedgenta.com.

Hashtag: #UEMEdgenta

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

About UEM Edgenta

UEM Edgenta Berhad (“UEM Edgenta”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of UEM Group Berhad, is an Asset Management and Infrastructure Solutions company that delivers integrated, end-to-end solutions across the entire asset lifecycle, combining engineering excellence in design, project management and asset consultancy with tech-enabled asset management capabilities to optimise asset performance, efficiency and resilience.

With operations across Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Taiwan, the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, UEM Edgenta supports the reliable and sustainable performance of critical assets, including healthcare facilities, transportation networks and industrial infrastructure.

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PRU Pop Run registration officially opens

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Milestone run marking Pru Life UK’s 30 years of providing protection for Filipinos

MAKATI CITY, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 27 July 2026 – The countdown begins as PRU Pop Run officially opens registration to the public. Marking Pru Life UK‘s 30th anniversary in the Philippines, the event invites runners of all levels to lace up, gather their crew, and join a vibrant celebration that blends movement, music, nostalgia, and Filipino pop culture.

PRU Pop Run registration officially opens

Happening on 30 August at Ayala Triangle Gardens in Makati, PRU Pop Run will feature five race distances designed to challenge, inspire, and unite participants from all walks of life: 3K, 5K, 10K, 21K, and a special 30K category that pays tribute to Pru Life UK’s three decades of service to Filipinos.

Aptly named PRU Pop Run, the event brings to life Pru Life UK’s Promise of Protection, reflecting the company’s commitment to help Filipinos protect their future while taking active steps towards better health and well-being today. It underscores how protection is not only about financial security, but also about building the habits, confidence, and resilience to live life more fully.

“PRU Pop Run is all about encouraging Filipinos to take a more holistic approach to building a brighter future. At Pru Life UK, we believe that building a healthier and wealthier future starts with health insurance and is strengthened by the discipline to show up and make better, more responsible choices every day,” said Sanjay Chakrabarty, Pru Life UK President and Chief Executive Officer.

Adding more energy to the milestone event is a nostalgic celebration of pop culture through the decades. Runners and spectators can look forward to an immersive experience inspired by fashion, arts, music, cinema, and entertainment, showing how culture continues to evolve alongside people’s changing protection needs.

The race categories are structured to welcome every fitness level. Beginners can ease into the lifestyle with the 3K or 5K distance, while seasoned weekend runners can test their stamina in the 10K category. Regular runners and marathon trainees can take on the 21K route or the highly anticipated 30K challenge, a special distance in local running events and a symbolic nod to Pru Life UK’s 30-year journey in the country.

Beyond the physical challenge, PRU Pop Run serves as a timely call for healthier, more active living. In a digital age, it invites young Filipinos and families to step away from screens, step onto the pavement, and experience the real-world joy of movement, community, and personal achievement.

As Pru Life UK celebrates three decades of serving Filipinos, it remains committed to being the most trusted partner of every life and protector of every future. Through PRU Pop Run, the company reinforces that Filipinos can Count on PRU in championing their financial future, health, and overall well-being.

Join the celebration of movement, wellness, and a healthier future by registering at www.prupoprun.com.

Hashtag: #PruLifeUK

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

About Pru Life UK

is the leading life insurer in the Philippines demonstrating its commitment to protect Filipinos’ financial future and well-being for every life, for every future.

Established in 1996, Pru Life UK operates in over 200 branches and general agency offices in the Philippines, and holds the largest life insurance agency force of over 35,000 licensed agents.

Pru Life UK offers a wide range of tailored solutions that address the unique and evolving needs across demographics and life stages. These include life protection, health, accident and disability, and investment-linked insurance.

Currently, Pru Life UK serves over 930,000 individual policyholders and more than 85,000 insured group members, and ranks first in New Business Annual Premium Equivalent* as of FY 2025, according to the Insurance Commission.

Pru Life UK is a subsidiary of Prudential plc, with a legacy of more than 175 years of safeguarding the future of millions of families for this generation and generations to come.

Pru Life UK is headquartered in 9/F Uptown Place Tower 1,1 East 11th Drive, Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its main customer centre is located in G/F Cluster 2, Uptown Parade, Megaworld Blvd. corner 36th street Uptown Bonifacio, Taguig City 1634, Metro Manila, Philippines. Its customer centre contact details are: +63 (2) 88875433 (within Metro Manila) and 1-800-107785465 (for domestic toll-free via PLDT landline), email: .

The PRU customer centre processes customer concerns based on applicable timelines provided by the law. Visit for the list of its branches and more information.

Pru Life UK is legally permitted to provide financial products or services in the Philippines as regulated by the Insurance Commission.

The Insurance Commission’s head office is located in 1071 United Nations Avenue Ermita, Manila, Philippines. Their Cebu District office is located at Unit 17, Ground and Second Floors, The Gallery, Pope John Paul II Avenue, Barangay Kasambagan, Cebu City, while their Davao District office is in Door 2 & 3, 3rd Floor of YAP Building Quimpo Boulevard, Ecoland, Davao City. Visit for more information.

Notes:

*New Business Annual Premium Equivalent (NBAPE) – premium for a new policy paid in a year

Please use “Pru Life UK” when referring to the company.

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