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ISCA Commits $6 Million to Launch Polytechnic Pathway Programme to Support Polytechnic Graduates in Becoming Chartered Accountants of Singapore; Builds on Full Employment Rate for Diploma Holders who completed SCAQ

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SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 20 January 2025 – The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) will be setting aside up to $6 million in associated costs and subsidies to launch the Polytechnic Pathway Programme (PPP), specially curated for all local polytechnic graduates who embark on the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification (SCAQ) programme after completing their diplomas. The newly-minted programme is in line with recommendations by the Accountancy Workforce Review Committee, announced in May 2023, to ensure a sustainable pipeline of high-quality accountancy talent.

Under the PPP, polytechnic graduates from full-time Pre-Employment Training Diplomas who sign up for the SCAQ Foundation Programme (FP) will receive a sponsorship of SCAQ-related fees and learning support from ISCA for a period of two years after graduation. The PPP will also allow polytechnic students to enrol as ISCA student members and gain access to SCAQ learning resources. Students from all local polytechnics in Singapore are eligible for the programme regardless of the diploma they hold, and ISCA aims to attract students across various non-accountancy disciplines, such as business, information technology, and even design and media.

This initiative builds on the success of ISCA’s Accelerated Pathway Programme (APP), which was launched in April 2024 to offer university students studying accountancy a dedicated route to becoming a Chartered Accountant of Singapore. Since the expansion of the SCAQ in November 2023 to include non-accountancy diploma holders, ISCA has seen a twofold increase in the number of polytechnic graduates enrolling for the SCAQ, including graduates who held non-accountancy diplomas. Presently, ISCA has over 110 polytechnic graduates currently enrolled in the SCAQ FP, which comprises around 11% of the total SCAQ FP candidature pool. This number is projected to increase, especially with the launch of the PPP and other student outreach efforts that ISCA will scale up over the next few years.

In addition, ISCA will be establishing Campus Enterprise Hubs across six polytechnics and universities by end-January 2025. These hubs are dedicated spaces which aim to provide an avenue for students to engage with ISCA and ISCA’s wide network of Accredited Training Organisations and Professional Accountancy Hub member organisations[1], collectively bringing together over 520 employers and 3.6 million members to connect with students. ISCA will also facilitate engagement sessions between students and employers, with the objective of cultivating a strong pool of talent for employers to tap on, and conversely helping students pursue internship and job opportunities. Earlier today, Member of Parliament and Chair of the Government Parliamentary Committee (GPC) for Finance, Trade and Industry Mr Liang Eng Hwa and ISCA President Mr Teo Ser Luck opened ISCA’s first Campus Enterprise Hub in Ngee Ann Polytechnic (NP).

ISCA President, Mr Teo Ser Luck, said: “All our diploma holders who completed the SCAQ are fully employed. This speaks volumes for both the SCAQ and the value of polytechnic education in Singapore. We are pleased to expand our SCAQ support to polytechnic graduates on their journey to become a Chartered Accountant and cultivate accountancy as a study of choice here in Singapore.”

Mr Lim Kok Kiang, Principal & CEO of Ngee Ann Polytechnic, said: “We are pleased to welcome the launch of ISCA’s Polytechnic Pathway Programme and the opening of ISCA’s Campus Enterprise Hub in NP. Besides enhancing the education and career opportunities for polytechnic students in the accountancy field, these initiatives will encourage more students trained in different fields to explore a career in this sector.”


[1] ISCA’s Professional Accountancy Hub consists of 23 organisations from a wide variety of fields, such as the Singapore Business Federation, Singapore Computer Society, and the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce & Industry (SCCCI).

Hashtag: #ISCA #Accountancy #DifferenceMakers #PolytechnicPathwayProgramme

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

About the Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA)

The Institute of Singapore Chartered Accountants (ISCA) is the national accountancy body of Singapore with over 38,000 ISCA members making their stride in businesses across industries in Singapore and around the world. ISCA members can be found in over 40 countries and members based out of Singapore are supported through 12 overseas chapters in 10 countries.

Established in 1963, ISCA is an advocate of the interests of the profession. Complementing its global mindset with Asian insights, ISCA leverages its regional expertise, knowledge, and networks with diverse stakeholders to contribute towards the advancement of the accountancy profession.

ISCA administers the Singapore Chartered Accountant Qualification programme and is the Designated Entity to confer the Chartered Accountant of Singapore – CA (Singapore) – designation.

ISCA is a member of Chartered Accountants Worldwide, a global family that brings together the members of leading institutes to create a community of over 1.8 million Chartered Accountants and students in more than 190 countries.

For more information, visit .

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Hong Kong Tech Exhibits Immense Potential at CES 2026 with 61 Tech Companies Ready for Global Markets

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Largest-ever Hong Kong Tech Pavilion features 3 Innovation Award-winning game-changers showcasing immense potential to scale

LAS VEGAS, US – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 January 2026 – Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) and Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) will join hands in spearheading the largest-ever Hong Kong Tech Pavilion to the annual Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas from January 6-9 (Tue-Fri). The showcase features 61 tech companies in a dynamic mix of early-stage and mature companies in AI, robotics, healthtech, and sustainability, to signify Hong Kong’s fast-rising technology advancements and the ability to empower innovators in and out of the city to scale imagination to global impact.

Taking centre stage this year, Hong Kong Tech Pavilion stars with several CES Innovation Award winning solutions, as well as world-firsts, in a display of technology strength across the Eureka Park and Global Pavilion that includes companies less than five years old and more established ventures. Highlights include:

  • Widemount Dynamics Tech: named Best of Innovation for Product in Support of Human Security for All, their Smart Firefighting Robot is designed to detect fires, navigate smoke-filled environments, provide real-time mapping, and determine the best extinguishing agent to minimize costs and risks for losses of life and asset.
  • PointFit: honored under the Digital Health category, the PF-Sweat Patch is an ultra-thin wearable built with patented biomarkers tracking technology, it offers a non-invasive alternative with continuous monitoring of vitals and performance for athletes and wellbeing enthusiasts.
  • Eieling Technology: honored under the Digital Health category, FattaLab® is the world’s first intelligence-driven compact fatty liver diagnostic device, delivering assessment results with medical-grade accuracy in just 30 seconds. The high level of convenience promotes early treatment to those who suffer from the disease, enabling immediate preventive care, and potentially boosts longevity.

Happenings such as announcement, product launches and briefings, and conversations to business-match at the Pavilions are lining up. That includes an introduction of GumAI, a smart oral healthcare solution developed by Dentomi, sharing more on the “Dentist coming in handy” approach; a demonstration of how DRESIO puts forth its “AI Physiotherapy for Everyone” solution; the launch of “wuBiee & wuBiee wrap” that moftBODY integrates neuroscience into smart textile onto daily shapewear, and more awaits at the Pavilions. Click here for the full line-up at Hong Kong Tech Pavilion, and schedule your visit now.

In addition, a Hong Kong Tech Networking Reception will be held on Day 2, welcoming all interested parties to engage in conversations of potential partnerships, and explore on business opportunities with Hong Kong tech companies. Registration is now open with details of the Reception as follows:

  • Date: 7 January 2026
  • Time: 5:30 – 7:30 pm
  • Venue: Mercato Della Pescheria, The Venetian

Appendix: List of 61 tech companies at Hong Kong Tech Pavilion, including 47 within the HKSTP ecosystem (in alphabetical order)

No. Company Name Booth Location
1 0x Limited Eureka Park
2 AIeveR Robotics Limited Global Pavilion
3 Airoma AI Limited Eureka Park
4 AniMed Technology Limited Eureka Park
5 AP Infosense Limited Global Pavilion
6 Aporion Technology Limited Eureka Park
7 BuyHive Limited Eureka Park
8 Cartesius Robotics Limited Global Pavilion
9 Cresento Limited Eureka Park
10 Cyanse Smart Energy Tech Limited Global Pavilion
11 Dealer Send Logistics Limited Global Pavilion
12 Decennium Platforms Limited Eureka Park
13 Dentomi Limited Eureka Park
14 DRESIO Limited Global Pavilion
15 Eieling Technology Limited Global Pavilion
16 Entoptica Limited Eureka Park
17 Ezygreenpak Limited Global Pavilion
18 Feelings Group Limited Eureka Park
19 Firefilm Group Limited Global Pavilion
20 FreightAmigo Services Limited Global Pavilion
21 Gembody Limited Eureka Park
22 Glassdio Scientific Company Limited Eureka Park
23 GoGoChart Technology Limited Global Pavilion
24 Green Vigor Limited Eureka Park
25 Greenbulb Trading Limited Global Pavilion
26 Hay-koze Limited Eureka Park
27 Haylo Tech Limited Eureka Park
28 HKSTP x ARROW HARDWARE LAB Global Pavilion
29 Hong Kong Aozhen Technology Co., Limited Global Pavilion
30 iCombo Tech Company Limited Eureka Park
31 ImageVector MedTech Limited Eureka Park
32 Immune Materials Limited Eureka Park
33 Innobound Limited Eureka Park
34 Loongrise Avionics (HK) Co., Limited Global Pavilion
35 Mangdang Technology Co., Limited Eureka Park
36 MedVision Limited Eureka Park
37 Meridian Innovation Limited Global Pavilion
38 MintMind Limited Global Pavilion
39 Mirror Caring Limited Eureka Park
40 MMSTAR Technologies Limited Eureka Park
41 moftBODY Limited Eureka Park
42 Multiply Studio & Technologies Limited Eureka Park
43 Novautek Autonomous Driving Limited Global Pavilion
44 Nuvatech Limited Eureka Park
45 On-Skin Wearable Technology Limited Eureka Park
46 Plasticvore Chain Limited Eureka Park
47 Point Fit Technology Limited Eureka Park
48 ReSaTech Limited Global Pavilion
49 Robocore Technology Limited Global Pavilion
50 Shannon & Turing Technology Limited Eureka Park
51 Solos Technology Limited Global Pavilion
52 TG0 Limited Global Pavilion
53 The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Global Pavilion
54 UbiquiTech Innovations Limited Eureka Park
55 Vcare Vision Technology Limited Global Pavilion
56 Vista Innotech Limited Global Pavilion
57 Webuild Tech Limited Eureka Park
58 WeWealth Electronic Innotech Limited Global Pavilion
59 Widemount Dynamics Tech Limited Eureka Park
60 Xeroptix Technology Limited Eureka Park
61 XOXO Beverages Limited Global Pavilion


Remarks:

  • The Hong Kong Tech Pavilion is located across Eureka Park (booth #63200, Hall G) and Global Pavilion (booth #50732, Hall A-D) at The Venetian Expo.

Hashtag: #HKSTP

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HKSTP

More information about HKSTP is available at .

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BTL Hong Kong gathers 300 doctors and Linda Chung at “Mindful Beauty” Regional Summit in Phu Quoc in 2025

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 January 2026 – The BTL Regional Summit & Award Gala 2025, themed “Mindful Beauty,” concluded successfully at the JW Marriott Phu Quoc, Vietnam after four days of scientific workshops, networking, and celebration from 29 November to 2 December. The summit gathered around 300 doctors, medical experts, and aesthetic business owners from 14 countries from Europe, Asia Pacific and North America to explore the evolving philosophy that beauty and wellbeing are inseparable. Among the highlights was the attendance of Hong Kong actress and singer Linda Chung, BTL official endorser of EMFACE™, who joined as a special guest to share her personal testimonial on balancing beauty and wellbeing and to present awards to outstanding practitioners across 14 countries.

Ms Linda Chung, famous Hong Kong actress and singer, joined the Summit as an official endorser of EMFACE™ and special guest to share her personal testimonial on balancing beauty and wellbeing and to present awards to outstanding practitioners across Asia-Pacific.

YouTube Video:
✨BTL Regional Summit in Phu Quoc, Vietnam ✨ – YouTube

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Linda Chung Shines as EMFACE™ Endorser and Award Presenter

At the Gala, Linda Chung, BTL Hong Kong Ambassador and EMFACE™ endorser, captivated the audience with her radiant presence. Having visited Phu Quoc before and expressing how much she enjoyed the destination, Linda shared her happiness at returning for the first time for work, thanking BTL for bringing her to such a wonderful Gala. She shared her personal journey with EMFACE™, EXION™, and EMFUSION™ treatments. She highlighted how these non-invasive technologies help her stay radiant despite a demanding schedule of family life, concerts, and frequent travel, noting their combined benefits for skin rejuvenation and confidence before major performances. She said, “I would schedule BTL treatments during my visits to Hong Kong, particularly before attending events. EMFACE™ and EXION™ are one of my favourite treatments as they make me glow immediately.” Linda also expressed her excitement to try EXOMIND™, believing that improving sleep quality and enhancing cognitive function can effectively cope with long-haul flights and jet lag. Looking stunning on stage, Linda delighted guests — especially in Vietnam where she is widely admired. Offering advice, she said, “Self-care isn’t just a one-time event; it’s about consistency. Investing in yourself is always worth it.” She concluded her appearance by presenting awards that recognized excellence and innovation within the aesthetics community.

Science-Backed Innovations: EMFACE™ and EXOMIND™

The summit highlighted EMFACE™ and EXOMIND™ as breakthrough technologies embodying the philosophy of Mindful Beauty. EMFACE™ is the world’s first device to synchronize RF with HIFES™, working simultaneously on skin and muscle to stimulate collagen and elastin production, selectively tones the face-elevating muscles and lift features non-invasively — without needles, discomfort, or downtime. Its flexible treatment options, including the new Eye applicator, target areas such as the forehead, eye, cheeks, and submentum restore and elevate support of facial features.

Complementing this, EXOMIND utilizes patented ExoTMS technology to activate neurons through magnetic fields. By enhancing the brain’s neural networks for message transmission, EXOMIND™ helps improve sleep, regulate emotion, improve stress management and reduce food cravings, offering patients both mental clarity and enhancing living standard.

Together, EMFACE™ and EXOMIND™ represent BTL’s vision of authentic, science-driven “beauty from within,” delivering visible results alongside improved wellbeing and confidence. This integrated approach reflects a growing demand for holistic solutions that strengthen both appearance and inner resilience.

International Dialogue on Mindful Beauty - The summit fostered a truly global dialogue, bringing together leading voices from across continents. Miss Sherina Balaratnam (UK), Dr. Sam R. Patel (USA) and Dr. Darren Ng (Australia) sat together having an EMFACE™ Q&A session.
International Dialogue on Mindful Beauty – The summit fostered a truly global dialogue, bringing together leading voices from across continents. Miss Sherina Balaratnam (UK), Dr. Sam R. Patel (USA) and Dr. Darren Ng (Australia) sat together having an EMFACE™ Q&A session.

International Dialogue on Mindful Beauty

The summit fostered a truly global dialogue, bringing together leading voices from across continents. Prof. Sebastian Cotofana (USA) shared anatomical insights that are shaping safer and more effective treatments. Miss (Dr) Sherina Balaratnam (UK) underscored the importance of valuing mental wellness alongside physical health in the pursuit of beauty. Prof. Calvin Cheng (Hong Kong) Pointing out that there are innovative technologies available today that can help maintain mental health needs, providing comprehensive care from prevention to actively addressing treatment.

Atmosphere & Celebration

Beyond aesthetic and mental knowledge exchange, the summit offered unforgettable experiences: beachfront dinners with fire dance performances and live music, private expert sessions, and the Mindful Beauty Award Gala, where Linda Chung served as an award presenter highlighted the event’s theme of authenticity and holistic beauty.

Global Leaders at the BTL 2025 Regional Summit

Five distinguished experts across the globe were joined the Summit as keynote speakers:

Prof. Sebastian Cotofana, M.D., PhD., PhD. – Anatomist, USA

Professor Cotofana holds dual Ph.D. degrees in Medical Sciences and Anatomy, and has authored over 300 peer-reviewed publications. He has held academic appointments at the Mayo Clinic and Vanderbilt University, and continues to lead global research collaborations with BTL.

Miss (Dr) Sherina Balaratnam, MBBS, MRCS, MSc. – Surgeon & Cosmetic Doctor, United Kingdom

Miss Sherina Balaratnam has over 26 years of medical experience, including NHS reconstructive plastic surgery, and is a member of the Royal College of Surgeons. At her multi-award-winning clinic, S-Thetics in Buckinghamshire, UK, she delivers strategic facial and body rejuvenation using cutting-edge technologies. In June 2023, she was invited by BTL Aesthetics to become a Global Key Opinion Leader. We are honored to welcome her again at our Mindful Beauty Summit this year.

Dr. Sam R. Patel, M.D., MBA. – Aesthetics & Wellness Consultant, USA

Dr. Sam Patel is a medical consultant and health tech innovator. He is the founder of esteemed businesses in the medical and aesthetic industry and is passionate about sharing his experience with medical professionals, helping them to optimize and expand their practices. Thanks to his focus on innovation, scalability, and AI in healthcare, he is also a highly sought-after speaker and mentor in the industry.

Dr. Darren Ng, MBBS, FRACGP, FACP. – Aesthetic Physician & Phlebologist, Adelaide, Australia

Dr. Darren Ng is the Medical Director of Lasers in Medicine in Adelaide, one of South Australia’s longest-standing aesthetic and vein clinics. As a cosmetic physician and phlebologist, he specializes in varicose vein treatments, lasers, and minimally invasive techniques. His prior experience as an elite athlete instilled a discipline and commitment to excellence in his medical practice and work with BTL as a key opinion leader.

Prof. Calvin Cheng, MBBS, FHKAM, FHKCPsych. – Psychiatrist, Hong Kong

Professor Calvin Cheng is a Clinical Assistant Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at The University of Hong Kong and the Director of the Hong Kong Institute of Neuromodulation. With expertise in geriatric depression, brain mapping, and non-invasive transcranial brain stimulation (TMS).

Hashtag: #BTL #EMFACE #EXOMIND #btlmedical #2025BTLRegionalEvent




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

BTL

Founded in 1993, BTL Industries is a leading manufacturer of aesthetic and medical equipment, with offices in over 90 countries and the fastest-growing aesthetic division in medicine.

EMFACE™️, EXION™️, and EMFUSION™️ are BTL’s flagship devices for facial sculpting, anti-aging and skin health, alongside the innovative EXOMIND™️ for mental wellness.

EXOMIND™️ uses patented ExoTMS™️ technology to enhance neural networks for message transmission without needles or medication. Patients report significant improvements in insomnia, sleep quality, concentration, depression, anxiety, appetite disorders, and menopause after multiple treatments, greatly enhancing overall life satisfaction.

EMFACE™️ is a facial lifting device that tones lax muscles and boosts collagen and elastic fiber production. In 2025, BTL launched the EMFACE™️Eyes Applicator to strengthen the orbicularis oculi muscle and enhance collagen for skin issues around the eyes.

EXION™️ features built-in AI and five applicators using radiofrequency and targeted ultrasound to treat facial and body areas, promoting collagen and hyaluronic acid production, enhancing circulation, and breaking down fat cells.

EMFUSION™️ uses patented DynamiQ technology to restore SkinCA++ levels, repair the skin barrier, balance the micro-ecosystem, enhance defense, reduce sensitivity, and slow aging.

At BTL, we combine beauty and mental wellness in a holistic approach that nurtures the face, body, and mind.


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ICONSIAM Elevates Thailand onto the World Countdown Map with “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2026”

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A five-day global phenomenon uniting world-class and Thai artists with eco-friendly fireworks—captivating millions and redefining Bangkok as a premier New Year countdown destination.

BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 January 2026 – ICONSIAM, the global landmark on the banks of Thailand’s legendary Chao Phraya River, once again captured the world’s attention with “Amazing Thailand Countdown 2026“, a five-day world-class New Year celebration held from 27–31 December 2025 at River Park, ICONSIAM. Presented under the theme “A GLOBAL PHENOMENAL CELEBRATION AT THE ICON UNRIVALED,” the event united forces across public and private sectors to deliver an extraordinary global countdown experience. The River Park area was transformed into The Largest Entertainment Arena, featuring non-stop performances by more than 200 leading Thai and international artists across five themed nights, including Pop Power, Dance Force, Rock Infinity, Star Harmony and Global Phenomenon Stage.

The five-day celebration attracted over 1.8 million visitors from Thailand and around the world, placing Bangkok alongside the world’s leading countdown cities and reaffirming ICONSIAM as one of the top global countdown destinations.

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Worldwide Media Broadcast and Record-Breaking Digital Impact

The Amazing Thailand Countdown 2026 generated over 100 million online views across all platforms over five days, reflecting its immense global reach and cultural resonance. The official hashtag #AmazingThailandCountdown2026 ranked No.1 trending in Thailand across Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter), underscoring the event’s dominance in both live attendance and digital engagement.

The celebration was broadcast live and reported nationwide and worldwide across major television and online platforms such as CNN, BBC, AP, AFP, CNBC-TV18, Reuters, NBC News, ABC News, CCTV, Hunan TV, Jiangsu TV, and Phoenix TV, among others, allowing audiences across continents to share in Thailand’s most spectacular year-end moment.

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Grand Opening Scene and World-Class Entertainment

The grand opening scene on the night of 31 December unfolded as a spectacular fusion of traditional Thai artistry and international performances, led by Miss World 2025, Suchata Chuangsri. The showcase celebrated the beauty of Thai art, music, and heritage while honoring Thailand’s enduring legacy. The night continued with a stellar lineup of world-class and iconic Thai artists, performing against the breathtaking backdrop of the Chao Phraya River.

Where the Best of Thailand Meets the Best of the World

The pinnacle of the celebration, “The Unrivaled Global Performance: Where the Best of Thailand Meets the Best of the World,” came to life through an exclusive collaboration created especially for ICONSIAM’s countdown stage. This historic performance united world-class artist Mark Tuan with iconic Thai artists Jeff Satur and Phrimaphaa Khornrojjanachawin in a powerful rendition of the royal composition “Still on My Mind (In the Eternal Heart),” marking a truly unforgettable moment on the countdown stage.

1,400 Meters of Eco-Friendly Fireworks Celebrating Legacy and Sustainability

The grand fireworks presentation continued the tribute to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit The Queen Mother, whose grace lives eternally in the hearts of the Thai people. Directed by Okuchi Yoshimasa, an award-winning Japanese fireworks master, in collaboration with Thai creative teams, the display combined artistry, technology, and sustainability.

Crafted from Thai sticky rice, the eco-friendly fireworks produced vibrant colors with minimal smoke and environmental impact—reflecting ICONSIAM’s long-standing commitment to sustainability. The panoramic display was visible within an 8-kilometer radius, delivering a breathtaking visual experience across Bangkok’s skyline.

The Power of Partnerships Driving Global Success

The success of Amazing Thailand Countdown 2026 reflects the strength of collaboration across both public and private sectors. ICONSIAM received major support from the Tourism Authority of Thailand, alongside leading private organizations, including Charoen Pokphand Group Company Limited, and many esteemed partners.

These collaborations underscore the power of public-private partnerships in elevating Thailand’s presence on the global stage and reinforcing the nation’s position as one of the world’s most distinguished New Year countdown destinations.

This historic performance ushered in 2026 with grandeur, emotion, and unforgettable memories—leaving a lasting impression on audiences around the world and reaffirming ICONSIAM as a must-visit global landmark. For more information and updates on upcoming events at ICONSIAM, please visit www.iconsiam.com

Hashtag: #ICONSIAM #AmazingThailandCountdown2025 #ICONSIAMCountdown2025

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

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