Media OutReach
Premier International Ophthalmology Congress, APAO 2026, to be Held in Hong Kong this February
More than 10,000 Ophthalmic Experts to Convene, Reinforcing Hong Kong’s Status as a Leading International Hub for Ophthalmology
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 January 2026 – The 41st Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology Congress (APAO 2026 Congress), in conjunction with the 37th Annual Scientific Meeting of the Hong Kong Ophthalmological Symposium, will be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) from 5 to 8 February this year. Hosted by the APAO and co-hosted by the Hong Kong Ophthalmological Society and the College of Ophthalmologists of Hong Kong, this congress is the largest and most authoritative ophthalmological academic conference in the Asia-Pacific region. It is expected to attract more than 10,000 ophthalmologists, vision scientists, and ophthalmic professionals from around the globe to exchange the latest breakthroughs in the prevention and treatment of eye diseases and to drive the advancement of the field globally. The opening ceremony will take place on 5 February afternoon, with Professor Lo Chung-mau, Secretary for Health of the HKSAR, as the Guest of Honour.
Theme “Eyes on the Future: Innovating Ophthalmology” to Explore Clinical Applications of Cutting-Edge Technology
Under the theme “Eyes on the Future: Innovating Ophthalmology,” the four-day congress will feature over 300 insightful sessions. It will bring together more than 1,000 distinguished speakers and 10,000 attendees to explore the clinical applications and translations of state-of-the-art technologies. The scientific programme covers 19 subspecialties—from core areas such as cataract, cornea, glaucoma, and retina, paediatric ophthalmology, and oculoplastic surgery, etc., to emerging fields like artificial intelligence, digital innovation, and virtual health. This comprehensive agenda is dedicated to fostering the continuous development of international ophthalmology.
A key highlight of the congress is the 2nd “World EyeCons in Ophthalmology of the 21st Century” Award Ceremony, scheduled for 5 February morning. This prestigious award recognises the world’s most influential ophthalmologists, vision scientists, innovators, and leaders who have profoundly shaped and advanced the field in the 21st century. Following the ceremony, a symposium titled “Pioneers and Visions: Innovations Shaping the Future of Ophthalmology” will feature presentations from current and past awardees, sharing invaluable insights on breakthrough advancements and the future of eye care.
Accelerate Cross-border and Global Collaboration
In addition to the annual English-language programme, this year’s APAO Congress will feature a special Chinese-language Scientific Programme to enhance regional collaboration and academic exchange, with over 100 leading ophthalmologists from the Chinese Mainland invited for in-depth discussions. A key event is the public health luncheon on myopia control, focusing on the innovative and evidence-based “Chinese Myopia Prevention and Control Model”. Top experts from the Chinese Mainland and abroad will share their perspectives on myopia prevention and control strategies. The objective is to showcase China’s impactful framework for comprehensive and public health management, robust research, new technologies, and effective policy to the global ophthalmic community.
On the same day, four leading eye care organizations will jointly establish the new Hong Kong Interdisciplinary Myopia Control Expert Taskforce (Hong Kong Myopia Taskforce). This collaborative initiative is led by the Hong Kong Ophthalmological Society, the College of Ophthalmologists of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Association of Private Eye Surgeons, and the Hong Kong Paediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus Society. This taskforce will pioneer the integration of academic research, clinical services, and public education to propose a comprehensive myopia control strategy for Hong Kong. Furthermore, it will promote more holistic, cost-effective, and long-term myopia management solutions by incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as AI, wearable devices, and novel therapies for the public’s benefit. This session will be officiated by Dr Ronald Lam Man-kin, Director of Health of the HKSAR, as the Guest of Honour.
For APAO 2026 Programme Schedule, please visit：https://2026.apaophth.org/program-overview/。
APAO 2026 to Enhance Hong Kong’s Clinical Prowess and Showcase World-Class Scientific Standards
Professor Jason Yam Cheuk-sing, President of the APAO 2026 Congress & President of The Hong Kong Ophthalmological Society, stated, “Hosting the APAO Congress for the fifth time is a testament to Hong Kong’s internationally recognised strength in ophthalmology. This world-class platform not only allows us to engage with top global experts and enhance our clinical capabilities in managing complex cases but also enables us to showcase Hong Kong’s cutting-edge ophthalmic technology and scientific prowess to the world, solidifying our leadership position as an international ophthalmology hub. We sincerely thank the generous support of the Funding Programme under the Innovation and Technology Commission, which has made this prestigious event possible.”
Professor Dennis Lam Shun-chiu, President of Academia of Retina International and Scientific Program Committee Chair of the APAO 2026 Congress, said, “At the upcoming APAO Congress, two significant societies will be officially established: the Global Ophthalmic Artificial Intelligence and Technology Innovation Society (GOATS) and the Asia-Pacific Stem Cell and Gene Therapy Society (APSOCGT). We are confident that these initiatives will provide substantial impetus for the advancement of ophthalmic artificial intelligence, technological innovation, stem cell and gene therapy, facilitating their translation from foundational research to clinical application, not only within the Asia-Pacific region but also on a global scale.”
Professor Clement Tham Chee-yung, President of the Hong Kong Glaucoma Society and Secretary-General of the Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology, noted, “In recent years, we have seen new treatment options for glaucoma, one of which is ‘minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries (MIGS).’ The key advantage of MIGS is the implantation of microscopic tubes into the eye to increase the outflow of aqueous humour, thereby reducing intraocular pressure and preventing further vision loss.”
Concurrent Large-Scale Ophthalmic Exhibition Welcomes Students and the Public
During the congress, a large-scale ophthalmic exhibition will also be held at the HKCEC, bringing together renowned international ophthalmic brands to showcase their latest technologies and products, providing a platform for industry professionals to network and source. The “Technology and Innovation in Ophthalmology Exhibition” will spotlight the research capabilities of local top-tier universities, featuring the outstanding research achievements of the ophthalmology teams from The Chinese University of Hong Kong and The University of Hong Kong.
The exhibition will also gather professional and charitable organisations—including the Hong Kong Ophthalmological Society, the College of Ophthalmologists of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Association of Private Eye Surgeons, and the Eye Care Charitable Foundation—to introduce various eye care services, medical information, and support programmes. To promote science education, this exhibition has been included in the Education Bureau’s “Business-School Partnership Programme – Ophthalmology Rising Stars Program,” with free admission for registered students and the public. This initiative aims to deepen public understanding of how cutting-edge technology drives the development of eye care and to demonstrate the societal value of academic research.
Free exhibition admission. Register now: https://www.i-concept.events
For more details about the APAO 2026 Congress, please visit https://2026.apaophth.org/.
This press release is issued by the APAO 2026 Congress.
Hashtag: #APAO2026
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About the APAO 2026 Congress
The Asia-Pacific Academy of Ophthalmology (APAO) Congress is the largest and most authoritative academic conference for ophthalmology in the Asia-Pacific region. The upcoming congress (APAO 2026) will be held in Hong Kong from 5 to 8 February 2026, in conjunction with the 37th Annual Scientific Meeting of the Hong Kong Ophthalmological Symposium. It is expected to attract more than 10,000 ophthalmologists, vision scientists, and ophthalmic professionals from around the globe. This prestigious event provides a premier international platform for attendees to exchange professional knowledge, showcase innovative technologies, and foster collaborations to collectively advance the latest global developments in preventing blindness and restoring sight. For more information, please visit https://2026.apaophth.org/.
Media OutReach
Woh Hup Celebrates Nine Decades of Flavour, Family and Innovation with Four Bold New Sauces
Singapore Turns 61. Woh Hup Turns 90.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 August 2026 – Every August, Singapore celebrates more than another year of nationhood. It celebrates the people, businesses and traditions that have quietly grown alongside the nation, becoming part of its shared identity and everyday life.
This National Day, as Singapore marks its 61st birthday, one of its oldest homegrown food brands reaches a remarkable milestone of its own.
For 90 years, Woh Hup has flavoured family dinners, festive reunions, neighbourhood barbecues and everyday meals that have become cherished memories across generations of Singaporeans. From humble beginnings in 1936 in Chinatown, Woh Hup has become a trusted name in kitchens both locally and internationally. By the 1980s, Woh Hup had established itself as the leading producer of oyster sauce in Singapore, a testament to its dedication and expertise.
Woh Hup sauces are now enjoyed, not just in Asian kitchens, but tables worldwide.
This August, as Singaporeans look forward to celebrating National Day with family, friends and neighbours, Woh Hup marks its 90th anniversary by unveiling four exciting additions to its chilli sauce family—bringing fresh inspiration to the tables where memories continue to be made.
More than a product launch, the new range reflects a heritage brand confidently looking ahead— combining nine decades of craftsmanship with the bold, adventurous flavours embraced by today‘s global consumers.
“For 90 years, families have welcomed Woh Hup into their kitchens and celebrations. That trust is our greatest honour – and our reason to keep evolving. These four new sauces honour where we came from, while embracing the bold flavours of modern Asian dining,” said Leong Chee Kang, Chief Executive Officer of Woh Hup.
The launch introduces four new sauces, each designed to bring versatility, convenience and vibrant flavour to today’s kitchens.
Mala Sriracha Chilli Sauce combines the unmistakable tang of sriracha with a tingling, numbing mala warmth, delivering a bold, layered heat that pairs naturally with fried chicken, dumplings, ramen and hotpot favourites.
For seafood lovers, the new Green Chilli Sauce for Seafood blends lively green chillies with refreshing notes to complement grilled fish, oysters, calamari and Singapore’s iconic seafood feasts.
Smoky Sriracha Chilli Sauce layers rich smokiness over classic sriracha — an ideal companion for burgers, barbecue skewers, grilled meats and hearty comfort food.
Rounding out the launch is Mala Seasoning Sauce, which delivers the signature tingling, numbing heat of Sichuan-inspired mala balanced with rich savoury notes. In an easy-to-use liquid form that mixes evenly for consistent colour and flavour, just a few drops transform stir-fries, soups and noodles into a multi-layered sensory experience — bringing bold mala excitement to everyday cooking.
Packaged in convenient new squeeze bottles, the three chilli sauces make everyday cooking and entertaining easier than ever — no spoons, no mess, just great flavour at a squeeze. The seasoning sauce comes in a classic glass bottle, ready to drizzle straight onto your meal or into the wok — bold Asian flavours to elevate every dish.
The new Woh Hup range — Mala Sriracha Chilli Sauce, Green Chilli Sauce for Seafood, Smoky Sriracha Chilli Sauce and Mala Seasoning Sauce — will be available at leading supermarkets and retail outlets across Singapore from August 2026.
As Singapore celebrates another year of nationhood, Woh Hup celebrates something equally meaningful—the millions of meals, conversations and family moments its products have quietly accompanied over the past nine decades.
Ninety years on, the recipe hasn‘t changed: bring people together, one meal at a time.
Hashtag: #WohHup
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Woh Hup
Founded in 1936, Woh Hup is one of Singapore‘s longest-established homegrown food brands and a trusted name in Asian sauces. For 90 years, the company has remained dedicated to crafting high-quality flavours that inspire home cooks and professional chefs around the globe.
Today, Woh Hup‘s growing portfolio of sauces, cooking pastes and convenience products is enjoyed by consumers in Singapore and international markets, reflecting the brand‘s enduring commitment to heritage, innovation and culinary excellence.
www.wohhupfood.com
Media OutReach
AuctuCel launches AuctuPrime to reduce biological variability in cell therapy manufacturing
Chemically defined medium removes animal serum and human platelet supplements as Malaysia and Singapore strengthen advanced therapy capabilities
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 August 2026 –Singapore is estimated to record approximately 19,290 new cancer cases in 2024, underscoring the growing demand for advanced treatment options and the manufacturing systems needed to produce them consistently. As cell therapies move from research towards clinical use, the reliability of every raw material used in production becomes increasingly important.
AuctuCel Pte Ltd, a Singapore biotechnology company specialising in AI-powered bioprocess technologies, today announced the launch of AuctuPrime, a next-generation chemically defined cell culture medium developed in collaboration with Sperikon. The formulation is designed to remove dependence on both animal serum and donor-derived human platelet supplements during cell therapy manufacturing.
The launch comes as both markets continue to deepen their advanced therapy ecosystems. The Singapore Economic Development Board reported that the country saw a fourfold increase in locally incorporated biotechnology companies since 2015. In Malaysia, the National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency issued updated cell and gene therapy product guidance in September 2025, including revised Good Manufacturing Practice requirements. As more research moves towards clinical translation, the reliability and traceability of manufacturing inputs are receiving greater attention.
A less visible bottleneck in cell therapy
Cell therapies are advancing across cancer, autoimmune disease and regenerative medicine, but manufacturing remains one of the major barriers to wider clinical and commercial adoption. Many conventional culture processes still use animal serum or platelet-derived supplements from human donors. These biological materials can vary between batches and may introduce additional sourcing, testing and documentation requirements.
AuctuPrime replaces these supplements with a fully chemically defined formulation. By giving researchers and manufacturers clearer control over what enters the process, it is intended to provide a more reproducible foundation for scale-up from laboratory research to clinical and commercial manufacturing.
The formulation is designed to support:
* Elimination of animal serum and human platelet supplements
* Reduced batch-to-batch variability in the culture process
* Lower dependence on donor-derived biological raw materials
* Greater supply chain resilience through chemically defined inputs
* More consistent scale-up and technology transfer across manufacturing stages
* A xeno-free approach for regenerative medicine and cell therapy workflowsWhy the manufacturing medium matters to patients
“Culture medium is not the therapy itself, but it can influence how reliably cells are produced. By removing animal serum and human platelet supplements, AuctuPrime gives researchers and manufacturers greater control over the process, helping to reduce variability and prepare for larger-scale production.” said Dr Zach Pang, Co-founder and Chief Scientific Officer of AuctuCel.
Supporting Singapore’s advanced therapy ecosystem
Singapore is strengthening its position as a regional hub for advanced therapies, supported by its universities, hospitals, research institutions and biotechnology companies. These organisations are building capabilities that connect early-stage research with regulated manufacturing and future clinical applications. Chemically defined media can support this progress by reducing reliance on variable biological inputs and enabling processes to be reproduced more consistently across local research and manufacturing facilities.
“Singapore’s continued progress in regenerative medicine will depend not only on scientific breakthroughs, but also on the ability to manufacture therapies safely, consistently and at scale. AuctuPrime represents an important step towards building a more reproducible manufacturing platform and can support local research and industry teams as they prepare for future clinical and commercial demand,” said Dr Chee Wai Fhu, Chief Executive Officer of AuctuCel.
For the wider region, stronger manufacturing foundations also matter for healthcare resilience. Cell therapies are complex products with demanding quality requirements, and the ability to manufacture them consistently will shape how quickly promising research can progress towards clinical use.
“The future of regenerative medicine depends not only on scientific breakthroughs, but on our ability to manufacture these therapies safely, consistently and at scale,” said Dr Chee Wai Fhu, Chief Executive Officer of AuctuCel. “AuctuPrime is an important step towards a more reproducible manufacturing platform. By removing dependence on animal serum and human platelet supplements, we hope to help researchers and manufacturers build processes that are better prepared for future clinical and commercial demand.”
Regional collaboration behind the launch
AuctuPrime was developed through a collaboration between AuctuCel and Sperikon, combining AuctuCel’s bioprocess and culture media expertise with Sperikon’s experience in regenerative medicine and cell therapy development.
Behind every cell therapy breakthrough is a production process that must work repeatedly, not only once. Improving that process is one of the practical steps needed to bring the next generation of therapies closer to the patients who may benefit from them.
Notes to editors
A chemically defined medium is a formulation in which the components and their concentrations are known and controlled. In this context, xeno-free means the formulation does not rely on animal-derived materials. AuctuPrime is a manufacturing input used during cell culture and is not itself a cell therapy product.
Hashtag: #AuctuCel
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About AuctuCel
AuctuCel is a Singapore-based biotechnology company spun out of A*STAR’s Bioprocessing Technology Institute. The company develops AI-powered bioprocess technologies and ready-to-use culture media solutions that help biotechnology and cell therapy companies improve manufacturing consistency, productivity and scalability. By combining advanced modelling, scientific expertise and bioprocess innovation, AuctuCel supports the translation of research into commercially viable biomanufacturing. The company has active operations and partnerships across Singapore, Malaysia and the wider Asian region.
About Sperikon
Sperikon is a biotechnology company focused on regenerative medicine, cell culture technologies and translational research. The company works with academic institutions and industry partners to develop scalable solutions that support the clinical and commercial adoption of advanced cell therapies. Through its collaboration with AuctuCel, Sperikon contributes to the development of next-generation chemically defined manufacturing platforms.
Media OutReach
Heartland 66 Accelerates Retail Transformation with the Launch of First-to-Market Korean Trend Zone and edgestreet Concept Space
Strategic 10,400 sq. m. transformation brings 150+ fashion and lifestyle brands to Central China
WUHAN, CHINA & HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 August 2026 – Heartland 66 in Wuhan, under Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK stock code: 00101) (“Hang Lung” or the “Company”), is expanding its new-generation, differentiated retail mix and customer experience offerings through the launch of Central China’s first curated 24KR Korean Trend Zone and edgestreet Concept Space. Building on the Heartland 66’s premium positioning, the two areas bring together Korean Wave culture, contemporary fashion, new-to-market brand launches, vibrant social spaces, and immersive experiences – forming part of Heartland 66’s transformation from a traditional retail destination into a trendy lifestyle hub, while contributing to the development of Wuhan’s retail sector.
Launched between June and July, the 24KR Korean Trend Zone and “Greenhouse by edgestreet,” together spanning approximately 10,400 sq. m., feature a lineup of more than 150 brands. The 24KR Zone captures the contemporary Korean Wave that resonates with new-generation consumers and enriches the shopping experience. “Greenhouse”, meanwhile, is a concept space developed by edgestreet, centered on a greenhouse-inspired botanical theme and offering a diverse mix of design, aesthetics, home living and pet lifestyles. It blends modernfashion, lifestyle aesthetics and social interaction, deepening engagement with emerging customer segments. Among the first batch of brands unveiled, 24KR introduces 11 brands making their China debut and 15 making their Central China debut, while “Greenhouse” brings 20 brands opening their first stores in Wuhan.
Such initiatives support Wuhan’s goal of accelerating its development into a forward-thinking city and an international consumption center. As a major transportation, education and commercial hub in Central China, Wuhan continues to attract university graduates seeking employment and entrepreneurship, as well as young talent from neighboring provinces who help to fuel local consumption. Heartland 66 aims to inject more emerging consumption experiences and commercial vitality into the local market.
Ms. Veronica Chan, Director – Mainland Business Operation, Hang Lung Properties, said, “Heartland 66 is actively introducing curated fashion and lifestyle offerings in response to the evolving consumer preferences. By providing a rich and diverse range of choices, we are creating placemaking destinations that foster a strong sense of community. As a commercial landmark in Wuhan, we will continue to strengthen our differentiated positioning, contribute to the city’s development as an international consumption center, and help stimulate consumer vitality.”
Mr. Harvey Ye, General Manager of Heartland 66, said, “The successive launch of 24KR Korean Trend Zone and ‘Greenhouse by edgestreet’ marks a firm step forward in engaging younger consumers and driving the revitalization and upgrading of our commercial spaces. On its opening day, the 24KR Zone lifted footfall by more than 50% year-on-year. ‘Greenhouse’, which followed shortly after, also drew a strong market response. Both underscore the powerful potential of the emerging consumer market and the surging economic vitality of Central China.”
| Item | 24KR Korean Trend Zone | “Greenhouse by edgestreet” |
| Location in Heartland 66, Wuhan | B1, East Zone | L3, East Zone |
| Area | Approximately 2,400 sq. m. | Approximately 8,000 sq. m. |
| Positioning | Contemporary Korean fashion and trendy lifestyle | Curated designer brands and quality lifestyle offerings |
| Brand categories | Trendy fashion, footwear and accessories, cosmetics and fragrances, designer toys, food and coffee | Designer brands, lifestyle and home living offerings, pet lifestyle brands |
| Number of brands | More than 100 trendy and creative Korean brands | More than 50 emerging international brands |
| First-in-market highlights | First batch: 11 China-debut and 15 Central China-debut brands, including FANCY CLUB, ZAENIO, IST KUNST, BLACKPURPLE and LAZY | First batch: 20 first-in-Wuhan brands, including THE WAREHOUSE by SHOWROOM SHANGHAI, HiOneOne, DOROQ, ARTICLE NO., and D&L Pets Department Store |
| Design concept | Inspired by Seongsu-dong in Seoul, incorporating Korean streetscape elements, tactile material textures, and layered urban details | Centered on “Lifestyle Inspiration × Greenhouse Ecology × Artistic Aesthetics,” using light, shadow and greenery to create a natural and open spatial experience |
Hashtag: #HangLungProperties
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Hang Lung Properties
Hang Lung Properties Limited (SEHK stock code: 00101) creates compelling spaces that enrich lives. Headquartered in Hong Kong and Shanghai, the Company manages a portfolio of over 3.6 million square meters of retail, office, residential, and hotel properties across Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland.
The Company’s diverse portfolio in Hong Kong includes office towers and malls in prime districts, as well as luxury residential developments in prestigious areas. In the Chinese Mainland, under the signature “66” brand, the Company’s mixed-use and retail developments are regarded as premium landmarks, strategically located in the hearts of key cities of Shanghai, Shenyang, Jinan, Wuxi, Tianjin, Dalian, Kunming, Wuhan, and Hangzhou.
The Company is recognized for pioneering sustainability in the real estate industry, with an MSCI ESG rating of AA and inclusion on CDP “A List” for Climate Change. The Company powers 90% of its operating properties in the Chinese Mainland with renewable energy, with a net-zero commitment by 2050.
At Hang Lung Properties – We Do It Well.
For more information, please visit https://www.hanglung.com.
