Media OutReach
Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach and WildAid Join Forces to Advance Thailand’s Marine Protected Areas and Strengthen Reef Restoration
The coastline of Phuket Island is home to remarkable nearshore coral reefs, making it a popular destination for snorkeling, diving, and other nature-based tourism. Many of its beaches also serve as important nesting grounds for sea turtles. However, Phuket’s marine biodiversity is under significant pressure from human activities, including coastal development, wastewater discharge, anchoring, plastic pollution, discarded fishing gear, concentrated tourism, overfishing, and the impacts of climate change.
Despite these pressures, a 2024 survey conducted by local NGO Love Wildlife Foundation revealed that Merlin House Reef remains a healthy coral ecosystem, housing 24 different coral groups along with 14 groups of reef fish.
This initiative with WildAid will leverage the ongoing conservation efforts by the hotel by committing to support the expansion of Thailand’s marine protected areas and contribute to the global ’30×30′ initiative, which aims to safeguard at least 30 percent of the world’s land and oceans by 2030. As part of the effort, the project will strengthen area-based management of the Merlin House Reef, including long-term ecological monitoring, foster stakeholder engagement in sustainable reef management, and conduct feasibility for a reef rewilding initiative. These actions will essentially lay the groundwork for nominating Merlin Beach as a potential Locally Managed Marine Area (LMMA), an increasingly important tool to expand marine protected areas and help advance the 30×30 goal.
LMMAs enable participation from local communities and stakeholders, drawing on their practical experience and deep knowledge. This inclusive approach fosters collaborative management, ensuring that everyone who relies on marine resources plays a vital role in the long-term success of LMMAs.
The initiative also emphasizes the critical role of the private sector, particularly the hospitality industry, in driving marine conservation. Around the world, there have been increasingly successful cases showing how protected areas actively managed and led by the private sector can complement existing government-led MPAs by enhancing connectivity of coastal, near-shore and off-shore habitats between other MPAs, underscoring the importance of empowering businesses to take an active part in safeguarding the oceans.
“By empowering hotels to take an active role in co-managing the resources that underpin nature-based tourism, we can help restore ecosystems, rewild degraded reefs, and sustain the services they provide. Rewilding efforts, such as bringing back keystone reef species and restoring ecological functions, make tourism more regenerative and ensure benefits flow back to both people and nature. Collaboration among stakeholders, local communities, and science-based monitoring is essential to achieving long-term conservation and truly sustainable use,” said Petch Manopawitr, Conservation Scientist and Advisor to WildAid.
Despite ongoing conservation efforts led by Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach, along with government and conservation partners in recent years, the reef remains vulnerable to rising sea water temperature, damage from boat anchors for fishing and snorkeling activities, and physical contact such as stepping on corals during low tide. To address these challenges, the hotel has been working closely with the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources (DMCR) in recent years to protect the corals. These efforts include installing undersea temperature and light monitors at a distance of 3, 6, and 10 meters from the surface of the water to study the impact of climate change on marine life. In collaboration with Love Wildlife Foundation, the hotel also engages guests through awareness and education activities at the Reef Education Center, developed in partnership with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
“Here at Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach, this is huge. We are a premier family resort in Phuket, and we recognize that our stunning natural environment is our biggest asset. So, partnering with an organization like WildAid is absolutely crucial—this is about moving beyond simple measures and making a real impact on a global scale. This is how we walk the talk when it comes to Marriott International’s Serve360 commitment. We are applying long-term scientific monitoring to our beautiful Merlin House Reef, and actively working to turn this area into a LMMA. Ultimately, we are aiming to raise global tourism awareness about sustainability and social impact. We want our guests, especially families, to feel connected to this effort. When you stay with us, you are directly supporting the protection and rewilding of the ocean. It ensures that the magic of Phuket’s reefs will be here for generations to come.” said Mr. Trevor May, Multi-Property General Manager, Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach, Courtyard by Marriott Phuket, Patong Beach Resort and Le Méridien Khao Lak Resort & Spa.
WildAid and Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach will also drive awareness activities under the theme “Our House Reef: Home to Life, Home to Us” to inspire a sense of shared responsibility for ocean conservation. Visitors, guests, local community and youth, and other stakeholders will be encouraged to take part in this collective effort, supporting the roadmap toward establishing an LMMA.
In the coming months, Love Wildlife Foundation and WildAid will conduct a comprehensive biodiversity survey to build an updated coral reef database, which will assess reef condition, coral diversity and recruitment, fish and invertebrate communities, and the resilience of the coral reef. The findings will serve as a critical baseline for long-term monitoring and support the nomination of the area as an LMMA.
This collaboration aligns with WildAid’s Marine Program’s goal that aims to strengthen protection and management in critical marine areas worldwide. WildAid’s marine work is operating across 95 priority sites in 17 countries, pioneering an approach that designs and applies effective enforcement and compliance systems for priority marine areas. As the number of protected areas around the world expands to achieve the 30×30 global target, WildAid’s efforts continue to grow with this network of protected areas.
Learn more about our family-friendly resort in Phuket and plan your perfect family getaway
Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/hktmb-phuket-marriott-resort-and-spa-merlin-beach/overview/
Call +66 (076) 335 300 or email: mh********************@************ls.com
Hashtag: #PhuketMarriottMerlinBeach #WildAid #30×30 #LMMA
https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/hktmb-phuket-marriott-resort-and-spa-merlin-beach/overview/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/phuket-marriott-resort-&-spa-merlin-beach/
https://www.facebook.com/phuketmarriottmerlinbeach
https://www.instagram.com/marriottphuketmerlinbeach/
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach
Phuket Marriott Resort & Spa, Merlin Beach is a family-friendly resort set on the stunning, secluded stretch of Tri-Trang Beach. Surrounded by forested mountains and lush tropical gardens, this Phuket spa resort features its vibrant reef and offers stylish accommodations. With 414 guest rooms, the resort caters to every need-from family adventure to MICE events and weddings. Guests can indulge in a refreshing oasis with three stunning swimming pools, each designed to create a unique atmosphere-whether it’s sipping cocktails at the lively pool with a swim-up bar or basking in serenity at the tranquil oasis with private whirlpools, modern fitness facilities, a dedicated Kids’ Club, and The Spa. A diverse array of dining options ensures that all tastes are catered to, while outstanding activity programs provide engaging experiences for guests of all ages, making it an ideal choice for all travelers.
Media OutReach
From PolyU Research to Geneva Global Debut: GOOD Vision oka³y! ™ Redefines Precision in Freeform Orthokeratology
Beyond Traditional Toric Lenses: The Future of Freeform Orthokeratology
With myopia expected to affect 50% of the world’s population by 2050, demand for effective management is high. While Ortho-K is a highly effective strategy, traditional symmetric and spherical/ toric designs often underestimate corneal shape complexity, causing lens decentration and poor visual outcomes.
The oka³y!™ freeform technology, incorporating the company’s proprietary FAST-360 and CORe Technology, surpasses traditional lens design. AI-based FAST-360 reconstructs missing corneal data for faster scans, while CORe ensures precise alignment with the visual axis, leading to 3.1 times greater stability.
Precision Myopia Correction and Control for High Astigmatism and Asymmetric Corneas
For optometrists and clinic owners, oka³y!™’s key benefit is improving workflow by automating complex mathematics, cutting chair time by 64%. This boosts myopia management capacity without extra staff or lengthy training. “As a registered optometrist in Hong Kong and a researcher in one of the world’s leading optometric institutes, I witnessed a growing gap between the number of patients seeking Ortho-K and the limited range of conventional products available to treat them,” says Dr. Kin Ho Chan, Ken, the lead inventor of oka³y!™. “By focusing on the ‘3A’: AI-guided, Astigmatism, and Asymmetry, and working alongside The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (Poly U), we have developed a design that not only delivers superior vision but also enhances safety by reducing corneal staining. We are turning a frustrating, manual trial-and-error process into a predictable one-click adjustment.”
From Niche Specialty to Global Enterprise: Scaling the Future of Eye Care
As myopia rates reach epidemic levels, GOOD Vision partners with PolyU, harnessing its research strengths and support from its startup ecosystem PolyVentures, to redefine primary eye care by transforming a niche specialty into a scalable global enterprise. By replacing manual OK lens design with oka³y!™, the company has created a technology bridging clinical complexity and scalability. This transition enables practitioners to manage myopia, high astigmatism, and asymmetrical cases precisely, removing barriers to modern refractive error management.
“By embedding and automating the complex mathematics of lens design, we provide clinicians with the tools to treat ‘difficult’ patients who were previously considered unsuitable for Ortho-K,” added Professor Chea-su Kee, Founder of GOOD Vision. “This is about elevating the global standard of care and ensuring that precision myopia management is accessible to the next generation on a global scale.”
Experience the Future of Myopia Control
GOOD Vision invites investors, distributors, and practitioners to a live demonstration of the oka³y!™ at the International Exhibition of Inventions Geneva:
- Location: PolyU Delegation Booth, Hall 2, Palexpo, CP 112, Route François-Peyrot 30, 1218 Le Grand-Saconnex, Geneva, Switzerland
- Dates: 11–15 March 2026
Hashtag: #GOODVision
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About GOOD Vision Technologies Co., Limited
GOOD Vision, a Hong Kong-based startup nurtured by PolyU, is dedicated to advancing the field of corneal reshaping technologies. With a focus on innovation, efficiency, and affordability, the company develops innovative solutions to empower eye practitioners and enhance the quality of eye care worldwide.
For additional details about GOOD Vision and their innovative offerings, please visit https://www.linkedin.com/company/goodvisiontech
Central Landmark Set for Revitalization with International Expertise
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 9 March 2026 – In a vote of confidence in Hong Kong’s vibrant and enduring business environment, Nexxus Building, a landmark Grade‑A commercial property in Central’s prestigious CBD, has been acquired by a leading figure in the technology sector. Trivium Asset Management (“Trivium”), an Asian real estate investment and asset management firm, has been appointed as Nexxus Building’s Asset Manager (“AMC” or Asset Management Company), taking charge of the asset’s comprehensive management and operations.
Under new ownership, Nexxus Building is set to undergo a forward‑looking transformation integrating next‑generation technologies with world‑class professional management. The revitalization aims to redefine the building’s market positioning, enhance its tenant experience, and reinforce its status as an iconic and premier Grade‑A property in the heart of Hong Kong’s CBD.
Leveraging Trivium’s extensive expertise, the enhancement programme will incorporate smart‑building management systems and sustainability‑driven upgrades designed to meet the evolving needs of global tenants. The reimagined Nexxus Building aims to attract financial institutions, fintech platforms, and technology enterprises, reaffirming Central’s position as Asia’s dynamic financial and innovation hub.
Mr. Wilfred Ma, Managing Partner of Trivium Asset Management, said, “Trivium is honored to be entrusted with the role of Asset Manager (“AMC” or Asset Management Company) for Nexxus Building, one of Hong Kong’s most iconic commercial landmarks. Drawing on our track record in real estate investment and operations across Hong Kong and Japan, we are committed to implementing forward‑thinking strategies that enhance tenant value, optimize building performance, and unlock Nexxus Building’s full potential as a commercial anchor in the city’s core.”
Originally built in 1962 as the former headquarters of Hang Seng Bank, Nexxus Building has been a witness to Hong Kong’s rise as a global financial centre. Following a major renovation in 2008 and the addition of a direct footbridge to IFC and the Airport Express in 2020, the building continues to host multinational corporations, leading financial institutions and professional services firms, and premium retail tenants – including the iconic Hong Kong Bankers Club – reinforcing its status as one of Central’s most distinguished Grade‑A office towers.
Hashtag: #TriviumAssetManagement
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Trivium Asset Management
Founded in 2022, Trivium Asset Management is a Hong Kong‑based real estate investment and asset management firm overseeing assets valued at over US$900 million across Asia. Trivium serves institutional investors, financial institutions, and family offices through integrated investment and asset management, value‑creation strategies, and technology integration. The firm’s mission is to maximize long‑term value and promote sustainable growth for clients and communities alike.
Media OutReach
HOFA Announces the Second Edition of the Digital Art Awards, in Collaboration with Exhibition Partner PhillipsX in Hong Kong, proudly backed by Lightyear
The awards ceremony will take place on 24 March 2026, featuring the four key categories of Still Image, Moving Image, Innovation and Experiential and followed by a private sale exhibition hosted by Phillips in Hong Kong, from 25–28 March 2026.
As a highlight of Hong Kong’s spring art calendar, the awards celebrate the growing cultural significance of digital art and spotlights the visionary artists redefining visual culture through cutting-edge technologies.
Thirty two international finalists will be selected for their work pushing the boundaries of digital creativity. Each of the four category winners will receive a $10,000 USDC commission towards a new artwork.
The thirty two finalists include several prominent figures in digital and generative art, such as Erick Calderon (Snowfro) Founder of Art Blocks, Botto, Sarah Meyohas, William Mapan, Sasha Stiles and Mario Klingemann – underscoring the calibre of talent the awards are already attracting with over two hundred applications across more than fifty countries.
Refik Anadol is nominated for the Honorary Career Award for Sense of Healing, an AI Data Sculpture that emerges from Refik Anadol Studio’s long-term research into creating meditative art based on neurological data.
Finalists and winners will be selected by a panel of leading experts in art, hospitality and technology, including Irini Mirena Papadimitriou, Exhibitions Director at Diriyah Art Futures, Thomas Heyne, Co-Founder and CEO at Scorpios, Dorothy di Stefano, Art Curator and Creative Strategist at Molten Immersive Art, Danielle So, Hong Kong Head of Auction, Modern & Contemporary Art, Phillips, Sebastien Borget, Co-Founder & Global of The Sandbox, SANDchain, President of Blockchain Game Alliance and Co-Founder of Artverse, Jean-Michel Pailhon, Co-Founder and Chief Investment Officer at Grailcapital, Simonida Pavicevic, Co-Founder and Curator at HOFA, Justin Gilanyi, Founder of WhereArt.Works and Curator at SILK, and Matt Zhang, Founder and Managing Partner at Hivemind Capital.
The Digital Art Awards are proudly backed by Lightyear, a subsidiary of Hivemind Digital Group. A full-stack digital culture partner, Lightyear provides infrastructure, liquidity and market expertise, and hands-on delivery for digital ownership and engagement across physical and digital experiences. Lightyear is committed to championing artists and organizations pushing the boundaries of digital culture.
Hashtag: #HOFA #PhillipsX
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
-
Feature/OPED6 years agoDavos was Different this year
-
Travel/Tourism10 years ago
Lagos Seals Western Lodge Hotel In Ikorodu
-
Showbiz3 years agoEstranged Lover Releases Videos of Empress Njamah Bathing
-
Banking8 years agoSort Codes of GTBank Branches in Nigeria
-
Economy3 years agoSubsidy Removal: CNG at N130 Per Litre Cheaper Than Petrol—IPMAN
-
Banking3 years agoSort Codes of UBA Branches in Nigeria
-
Banking3 years agoFirst Bank Announces Planned Downtime
-
Sports3 years agoHighest Paid Nigerian Footballer – How Much Do Nigerian Footballers Earn