Media OutReach
Hong Kong High Court Convicts Lai Chee-Ying of Collusion to Endanger National Security
The charges included “conspiracy to collude with a foreign country or with external elements to endanger national security” (contrary to Article 29 of the Hong Kong National Security Law (HKNSL) and sections 159A and 159C of the Crimes Ordinance), and “conspiracy to print, publish, sell, offer for sale, distribute, display and/or reproduce seditious publications” (contrary to sections 10, 159A and 159C of the Crimes Ordinance).
The reasons for the verdict are set out in an 855-page document that is fully available for public inspection. The court adjourned the case of Lai and the three defendant companies, as well as the related cases of eight people who previously pleaded guilty, to January 12, 2026 for mitigation. The date for sentencing will be announced afterwards.
The HKSAR Government welcomed the court’s conviction.
“Lai Chee-ying has long been using his media outlet, Apple Daily, to wantonly create social conflicts, incite social antagonism, incite hatred, glorify violence and openly beg for foreign sanctions against China and the HKSAR, attracting external interference,” said John Lee, Chief Executive of the HKSAR. “He has harmed the fundamental interests of the country and the well-being of the people of Hong Kong; his actions are shameful and his intentions malicious.”
Impartial court proceedings
A spokesperson for the HKSAR Government emphasised that the court clearly pointed out in the reasons for verdict Lai was not on trial for his political views or beliefs.
“The court’s verdict of guilty is reasoned and well-founded, and fully demonstrates that the court arrived at the verdict in strict accordance with the laws and evidence, free from any interference, and entirely devoid of political considerations,” the spokesperson said.
The court conducted a total of 156 days of public hearings, having considered up to 2 220 exhibits, over 80 000 pages of documents, and evidence from 14 prosecution witnesses. Lai Chee-ying himself even testified in court for 52 days. “These are the testaments to the fact that Lai and other defendants were found guilty only after a fair trial,” the spokesperson said, noting the court found that Lai had harboured resentment and hatred of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) for many years. “Long before the enactment of the HKNSL, Lai had already been applying his mind as to what leverage the United States (US) could use against the PRC. When the protests in 2019 metamorphosed into a resistance movement, Lai and Apple Daily were amongst those in the forefront.”
Appropriate treatment and medical care during detention
The spokesperson stressed that Lai had received appropriate treatment and medical care during his detention, in line with the commitment of the Correctional Services Department (CSD) to ensuring that the custodial environment is secure, safe, humane, appropriate and healthy for the persons in custody (PICs), regardless of their identities.
“Senior counsel representing Lai also clearly informed the court that the correctional institution arranged daily medical check-ups for Lai and that Lai had made no complaints about the medical services received while in custody,” the spokesperson said.
“Regarding the so-called solitary confinement, the Commissioner of Correctional Services is empowered to make arrangements under the Prison Rules that the prisoner should not associate with other prisoners. One of the purposes of such arrangements is to ensure the personal safety and well-being of the PICs. The arrangements for Lai Chee-ying have all along been made at his own request and approved by the CSD after considering all relevant factors in accordance with the law.”
Safeguarding national security
Mr Lee said the HKSAR had a responsibility to safeguard national security and will resolutely combat acts and activities endangering national security.
“Hong Kong is underpinned by the rule of law and the HKSAR Government is committed to ensuring that laws are observed and strictly enforced to bring offenders to account,” Mr Lee said. “The HKSAR Government’s stance is unequivocal. The Judiciary acts confidently, undaunted by any threats. We will resolutely fulfil the responsibility of safeguarding national security.”
The HKSAR Government noted that throughout the enforcement, prosecution and trial stages of Lai’s case, there were smears and attacks as well as interference and pressures from all sides, especially external forces led by the US and some western countries.
“They continuously smeared the law enforcement actions and judicial procedures of the HKSAR. They also, through despicable political manipulations and lies, attempted to glorify the criminal acts of Lai and his syndicate, and sought to impose so-called ‘sanctions’ to intimidate judges, prosecutors, law enforcement officers and other officials of the HKSAR Government, in an attempt to interfere with the court to exercise judicial power in accordance with the law and engage in acts of perverting the course of justice and undermining the rule of law,” the spokesperson said.
“Some individuals with ulterior motives have conflated the criminal acts in this case with freedom of the press, while external forces have even played up different cases to vilify the HKSAR.
“In spite of that, the fact remains that Hong Kong citizens enjoy freedom of the press and freedom of speech as protected under the Basic Law and the Hong Kong Bill of Rights. In fact, the HKNSL and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance clearly stipulate that human rights shall be respected and protected in safeguarding national security.
“The rights and freedoms, including the freedoms of the press, of speech and of publication, enjoyed by Hong Kong people under the Basic Law and the provisions of the International Covenant on Civic and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights as applied to the HKSAR, are protected in accordance with the law. However, like all other places in the world, journalists, like everyone else, have an obligation to abide by all the laws.
“Besides, the opening hearing of the case revealed that Lai repeatedly colluded with foreign forces to beg for sanctions against the Central Authorities and the HKSAR Government. His case has absolutely nothing to do with press freedom. The defendants have merely used news reporting as a pretext for years to commit acts that harmed the country and Hong Kong,” the spokesperson added.
Hashtag: #hongkong #law #nationalsecurity
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The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
New boutique separates luxury brand collections across two dedicated spaces, giving collectors a more focused buying experience
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 May 2026 – Watchbook Singapore has opened a second boutique at Far East Plaza, separating its curated collections across two dedicated spaces on the same floor to give collectors a more focused buying experience.
The expansion allows Watchbook to organise its inventory by brand family. The main boutique at #03-139 focuses on Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet and Cartier. The new boutique at #03-55 features contemporary luxury watches including Tudor, Omega, Hublot and other brands.
“By giving each collection its own dedicated space, we can offer collectors a sharper, more personalised experience,” said Anson Toh, chief executive officer at Watchbook Singapore. “This expansion reflects the growing interest in both neo-vintage and modern luxury watches, and our commitment to serving collectors at every level.”
Watchbook enters this next phase as Singapore’s second-highest-reviewed watch dealer, with more than 2,400 verified Google reviews reflecting thousands of successful transactions. Both boutiques are backed by the company’s end-to-end model: in-house authentication, a dedicated service centre staffed by certified watchmakers, and curated inventory under one roof.
Far East Plaza is well-established as a destination for watch enthusiasts and luxury retailers in Singapore. The opening of a second boutique on the same floor reinforces Watchbook’s position at the centre of that community.
Boutique Details
Main boutique
14 Scotts Road,
#03-139 Far East Plaza,
Singapore 228213.
New boutique
14 Scotts Road,
#03-55 Far East Plaza,
Singapore 228213.
Hashtag: #watchbook #fareastplaza
https://watchbook.sg/
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https://www.instagram.com/watchbooksg/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Watchbook Singapore
Watchbook is Singapore’s Neo-Vintage Rolex Specialist and a trusted destination for authenticated pre-owned luxury watches. The company offers one of Singapore’s deepest curated selections of certified neo-vintage Rolex timepieces from the 1980s to 2000s, alongside a broader portfolio including Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Cartier, Omega and more.
As an independent luxury watch dealer, Watchbook operates a fully in-house service centre staffed by certified watchmakers, delivering complete authentication, servicing and warranty support. Recognised as Singapore’s second-highest-reviewed watch dealer, Watchbook serves collectors and enthusiasts who value heritage, character and certified quality.
Short Courses Structured for Busy Professionals
For working adults who want targeted upskilling, SIM Academy’s course listing includes instructor-led programmes that are typically offered in short formats. The 1-day or 2-day course structure may appeal to professionals seeking to build capability while balancing work and personal commitments.
The topics covered reflect a mix of core workplace capabilities and emerging skill areas, including communication skills, cognitive skills, systems leadership, sustainability, as well as broader organisational and leadership competencies. Such short-format training has become a common feature within Singapore’s continuing education landscape, particularly among working adults seeking to remain competitive in a changing job market.
SkillsFuture Funded Training Courses
A number of SIM Academy’s professional development courses are eligible for SkillsFuture Credit and related funding schemes. These funding mechanisms are part of national efforts to encourage lifelong learning and support workforce transformation. The availability of funding-supported courses may lower barriers to participation for individuals and employers, particularly for those pursuing incremental skills upgrading.
Career Switch for mid‑career professionals
SIM Academy offers programmes under the SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme (SCTP). These programmes are designed for individuals considering a shift into new roles or sectors and typically run over 5-6 months. Programme structures may include a combination of classroom learning, practical projects and career support elements such as guidance on job search and career planning.
This reflects a broader trend in Singapore’s training ecosystem, where structured transition programmes are increasingly used to support workforce mobility and adaptation to new job roles.
Flexible Delivery Formats
SIM Academy’s programmes are delivered through a mix of in-person, online and blended learning formats. This allows participants to select learning modes that align with their schedules and professional commitments. Short courses are conducted throughout the year, primarily at SIM Management House, alongside digital learning options that support greater accessibility. Flexible delivery has become an increasingly important feature of professional education, particularly for working adults balancing training with full-time employment.
Part of a Broader Continuing Education Landscape
As industries continue to evolve, demand for continuous skills development remains a key focus within Singapore’s workforce strategy. Short courses, modular training and structured transition programmes are among the approaches adopted by training providers to meet these needs.
SIM Academy’s range of offerings includes shorter, skills-focused workshops and longer-duration programmes designed to support career transitions.
References
- SIM Academy: https://www.sim.edu.sg/professional-development/overview
- Courses offered by SIM Academy: https://www.sim.edu.sg/professional-development/courses/course-listing
- SkillsFuture Courses offered at SIM: https://www.sim.edu.sg/professional-development/courses/skillsfuture-courses
- SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme (SCTP): https://sctp.pd.sim.edu.sg
Hashtag: #SIMAcademy #SIMA
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About SIM Academy
SIM Academy provides leading-edge professional development and enterprise solutions. SIM Academy offers over 300 executive and business programmes that help almost 10,000 professionals annually on average hone their competencies to drive business value and achieve peak personal and enterprise performance.
Our programmes encompass a comprehensive range of lifelong learning opportunities designed to empower professionals with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to become effective change-makers and leaders in today’s volatile and uncertain business landscape.
For more information on SIM Academy, visit sim.edu.sg
Media OutReach
Patented Ingredients Help Malaysian Supplement Brands Stand Out as Wel-Bloom Bio-Tech Expands Market Presence
According to IMARC Group, the Malaysian dietary supplements sector is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.68% through 2034.Amidst this expansion, Wel-Bloom Bio-Tech emphasizes the importance of leveraging high-barrier patented ingredients. For the beauty and wellness sector, the exclusive ingredient Wel-ROS6® utilizes the “Black Crystal Roselle,” a variety developed over nine years. Through a triple-patented micro-grinding technology, the total anthocyanin content reaches up to 17.7 times that of conventional roselle extracts.
To address the aging population’s needs, Wel-Bloom Bio-Tech also introduces Wel-EGT®, a high-purity ergothioneine extracted through a patented process. This ingredient serves as a core component for cognitive health supplements, offering 5 times the BCAA content of standard chicken essence to support anti-aging and neurological health.
Beyond ingredient innovation, Wel-Bloom’s patented Functional Jelly technology enables preservative-free supplements that maintain 97.8% active ingredient integrity. As an international CDMO and health supplement manufacturer certified under NSF-GMP and HALAL, Wel-Bloom Bio-Tech provides integrated services from R&D to production, empowering Malaysian partners to achieve differentiated positioning in the evolving wellness market.
Hashtag: #Welbloom
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Wel-Bloom Bio-Tech
Wel-Bloom is a globally recognized CDMO expert in the health food industry, dedicated to delivering innovative, one-stop solutions. Guided by forward-looking market insights and supported by robust R&D capabilities, Wel-Bloom empowers clients to develop highly competitive, differentiated health food products.
For partnership opportunities and functional ingredient solutions, visit https://welbloom.com/ or search for Wel-Bloom online.
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