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Revealing Roo Rise: OceanX Expedition Establishes a New Scientific Baseline for the High Seas

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Expedition maps more than 12,800 square kilometers of seabed and documents deep-sea biodiversity across a little-studied high seas region

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 August 2026 – OceanX today announced the completion of High Seas: Revealing Roo Rise, a 22-day scientific expedition aboard R/V OceanXplorer to investigate one of the eastern Indian Ocean’s most ecologically significant and under-characterized high seas regions.

Scientists monitor a deep-sea sampling dive from Mission Control aboard OceanXplorer as an ROV pilot navigates ROV Chimaera.

Conducted in collaboration with Minderoo Foundation, Minderoo OceanOmics Centre at UWA, the Western Australian Museum, and the Living High Seas Initiative, the expedition surveyed two seamount features within Roo Rise. One lies within the South of Java Island Ecologically and Biologically Significant Marine Area [EBSA], while the other is located near its southwestern boundary. Researchers from the Nanyang Technological University, Singapore also participated in the expedition.

The research team used high-resolution seafloor mapping and remotely operated vehicle [ROV] surveys to document the structure and biodiversity of the two features. Environmental DNA [eDNA] sampling, water-column profiling, plankton surveys, and targeted specimen collection produced complementary datasets spanning the seafloor through the upper ocean.

Expedition outputs include:

  • 12,833 square kilometers of seabed mapped, including 9,333 square kilometers in international waters. Approximately 8,232 square kilometers, or 64 percent of the total area, represents new mapping when compared with existing global and Australian datasets.
  • Eight ROV dives, one submersible dive, nine CTD casts, 15 bongo net deployments, and six XBT deployments. The deepest CTD cast reached 3,845 meters.
  • 2,365 samples recorded across the expedition’s scientific workstreams, including 329 specimen lots and 528 eDNA samples collected across ROV transects and CTD stations.
  • Tissue samples from 243 specimens across nine phyla collected for whole-genome sequencing and the development of genomic reference resources in collaboration with the OceanOmics Centre.
Preliminary observations documented extensive sponge gardens and coral communities across Roo Rise, including large habitat-forming species and taxa recognized as indicators of Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems [VMEs]. Several surveyed areas supported dense coral and sponge assemblages with diverse associated communities of echinoderms, crustaceans, molluscs, annelids, and fishes.

Scientists also identified four xenophyophore morphotypes that may represent undescribed species, subject to further taxonomic and molecular review. An unusual seafloor habitat consisting of probable early diagenetic carbonate colonized by abundant agglutinated foraminifera was documented during a Roo Rise dive.

“Roo Rise sits within a region that is globally important for ocean productivity and fisheries, yet its deep-sea habitats have remained largely under-characterized,” said Dr. Alexis Weinnig, Science Program Manager and Expedition Coordinator at OceanX. “Over the past 22 days, our team mapped the structure of these seamounts and documented deep-water communities. We also collected samples from the seafloor through the water column. Bringing these datasets together will give scientists and decision-makers a stronger evidence base for understanding this part of the high seas.”

The South of Java Island region is shaped by seasonal upwelling and complex oceanographic processes. It is also associated with the only known spawning area for endangered Southern Bluefin Tuna, although this expedition took place outside the species’ peak spawning season. The data collected will help scientists examine how seafloor structure, water-column conditions, and biological communities interact across this productive open-ocean ecosystem.

Minderoo Foundation and Minderoo OceanOmics Centre at UWA led environmental DNA sampling and associated tissue sample collections in support of genomic biodiversity research across the expedition. The ship-based program generated 528 eDNA samples from ROV transects and CTD stations, while representative tissue samples from 243 specimens collected in situ via ROV dives will support whole-genome sequencing and the creation of genomic reference resources. At Christmas Island, an adjacent marine protected area under Australia’s jurisdiction, eDNA samples were collected from 90 sites, including 20 locations revisited from a 2023 survey.

“This expedition lays the groundwork to support genomics-based biodiversity monitoring in one of the ocean’s most under-studied and difficult-to-reach regions. By combining eDNA and tissue samples from Roo Rise with our growing datasets from Christmas Island, we can compare biodiversity across a clear protection gradient, from a recently established marine park to the less-protected waters of the adjacent high seas. As nations move to implement the BBNJ Agreement, this kind of evidence will be critical for understanding and safeguarding the deep-water habitats that support many vulnerable species. The expedition also gives people a window into places they will likely never see for themselves, offering a way to explore deep-ocean biodiversity in some of the planet’s most remote waters and feel connected to it,” said Dr Shannon Corrigan, Principal Research Fellow and OceanOmics Centre Lead at the Minderoo OceanOmics Centre at the University of Western Australia.

Western Australian Museum scientists contributed taxonomic expertise and specimen-based research. Voucher specimens will be curated within the Museum’s permanent reference collections, supporting species identification, taxonomic description, and open access to specimens for future deep-sea biodiversity research.

The expedition also connected deep-sea science with public audiences through live broadcasts with scientists aboard the R/V OceanXplorer. More than 100 people attended a Live Cross at the Western Australian Museum Boola Bardip, while an earlier event broadcast to Christmas Island brought together approximately 80 to 100 community members and Parks Australia staff. The WA Museum live cross was recorded and is now available on the WA Museum website and YouTube, enabling broader audiences to engage with the research.

“The real legacy of expeditions like this lies in the specimens that come back to the Western Australian Museum collections. While the footage is spectacular, it is the specimens that allow us to verify what we’ve seen, describe the species, and provide a permanent record that scientists can return to as new questions and technologies emerge. What stood out was the diversity of coral and sponge habitats we encountered across the deep water environments of Roo Rise. Even for the seamounts that appeared similar on a map, the communities at each turned out to be very different, reinforcing just how diverse and patchy these deep-sea ecosystems are and how much there is still to discover,” said Jennifer McIlwain, Director, Science at the Western Australian Museum.

Around Christmas Island, the onshore program combined eDNA sampling with community engagement and local capacity building. Thirteen activities were offered to the community, alongside participation in locally organized events. Total attendance reached approximately 345, reflecting repeat participation by community members across sampling trips, presentations, and education activities.

The expedition also collected baseline plankton and microbial data relevant to research into the Milky Seas phenomenon. Bioluminescent bacteria were successfully and consistently isolated from radiolarian and zooplankton material collected through bongo net surveys. Further population genomics and physiological analysis will examine the characteristics of these cultures.

The expedition’s scientific datasets may contribute to future assessments of biodiversity, seamount ecosystems, and ecological connectivity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. The work may also inform future area-based management discussions under the Agreement on Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction [BBNJ Agreement]. Future designation and management decisions sit with the relevant international processes.

The next phase of research will focus on taxonomic review, eDNA metabarcoding, whole-genome sequencing, and the processing of seafloor mapping and oceanographic data. Any observations involving organisms that may represent undescribed species will be communicated following scientific validation and partner approval.

Pending a data-sharing agreement, processed bathymetry is intended for submission to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s National Centers for Environmental Information and global mapping initiatives including GMRT, GEBCO, and Seabed 2030.

Hashtag: #OceanX

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

About OceanX

OceanX is a nonprofit working to unlock the ocean’s sustainable potential. Through a dual focus on science and education, we’re building a new paradigm where humanity and the ocean mutually thrive. Our approach is fueled by exploration, leveraging advanced research, multimedia educational programs, cross-sector partnerships, and advanced technology to transform how people understand and value the ocean. Our work strives to fortify biodiversity and increase the sustainable use of ocean resources to help ensure the ocean remains a foundation for human wellbeing and future potential. OceanX is a nonprofit operating program of Dalio Philanthropies. For more information, visit and follow OceanX on , , , and .

About Minderoo Foundation

Minderoo Foundation is driven by a commitment to create a future where people and the environment we depend on can thrive. Its work focuses on strengthening communities, advancing gender equality, and protecting natural ecosystems. While its approach centers on long-term systems change, when urgent challenges arise, including humanitarian crises, it acts quickly through targeted impact missions. Minderoo Foundation drives change by working alongside those closest to the challenge, advocating for reform, building evidence for what works, and developing solutions when none exist.

About Minderoo OceanOmics Centre at UWA (OceanOmics Centre)

As a leading ocean research institute located in the Indian Ocean region, the UWA Oceans Institute harnesses transdisciplinary expertise to drive transformative research, pioneer solutions, collaborate with communities, protect marine and coastal biodiversity, and guide critical decisions for climate change mitigation and adaptation. Embedded in the UWA Oceans Institute, the Minderoo OceanOmics Centre at UWA integrates advanced genomics infrastructure, specialist expertise, and strong collaborative networks to support large-scale environmental DNA and whole-genome sequencing research characterizing marine biodiversity. Its work establishes a genomics-enabled foundation for biodiversity discovery, ecological understanding, informed conservation management, and the development of innovative biomonitoring solutions.

About Western Australian Museum

The Western Australian Museum is the state of Western Australia’s premier cultural organization, housing the state’s scientific and cultural collection. For over 120 years, the Museum has made Western Australia’s natural and social heritage accessible through research, exhibitions, and public programs. Today, the Museum has seven public locations and a Collection and Research Centre that houses more than eight million objects. The OceanXperience exhibition is currently on display at WA Museum Boola Bardip, with activities organized to engage members of the public in person and virtually.

NTU, Singapore

Nanyang Technological University (NTU) is a globally recognized research university with strengths in marine science, environmental engineering, sustainability, and Earth systems science. Through interdisciplinary research and technological innovation, NTU contributes to understanding and conserving marine ecosystems while supporting collaborative initiatives that address regional and global ocean challenges.

About Living High Seas Initiative

The Living High Seas Initiative is an international collaboration dedicated to improving scientific knowledge and governance of biodiversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction. By supporting research, policy development, and international cooperation, the initiative contributes to implementation of the BBNJ Agreement and promotes the conservation and sustainable use of biodiversity on the high seas. Its collaboration with OceanX helps generate scientific data that can inform global ocean management.

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From Price-Checking to Protection Gaps: Blue’s New Campaign Decodes Hongkongers’ Common Frustrations with Simple Solutions

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22 hours ago

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04/08/2026

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 August 2026 – Blue, Hong Kong’s first digital life insurer, has officially launched its new 2026 Brand Campaign. Designed with real-life scenarios in mind, this campaign shines a light on the everyday frustrations Hongkongers face—and shows how Blue is the simple solutions.

The campaign highlights three key consumer pain points and presents Blue’s competitive product offerings as straightforward solutions:

1. Smart Price Comparisons for Life Insurance
While consumers meticulously compare prices for flights, takeouts, and groceries, they often overlook doing the same for life insurance. To address this, Blue ‘WeCare Term Life Protection Plan TL3’ features a Lowest Rate Guaranteed [1]. Under this guarantee, if a customer finds a comparable online term life plan with a lower premium, Blue promises to beat that price, ensuring customers receive the most competitive rate in town.

2. Securing Guaranteed Savings Rewards
To counter the frustration of hard work yielding no guaranteed rewards, Blue’s range of savings plans offers secure, steady growth. Blue ‘WeSave Short Term Insurance Plan ST1’ allows customers to lock in a 3-year guaranteed return of 4.12% p.a. [2] with a single premium payment, receiving 112.9% of the total premium paid upon maturity.

3. Bridging the Gap in Group Medical Coverage
Many working professionals find that standard group medical insurance leaves them with significant out-of-pocket expenses. Blue ‘WeMedi Outpatient Protector’ and ‘WeMedi HK Dental Protector’ help alleviate these costs. ‘WeMedi Outpatient Protector’ provides access to 8 types of outpatient services at preferential rates [3]—including general practitioners, specialists, Chinese herbalists, bone-setting, acupuncture, physiotherapy, chiropractors, and dental service. Additionally, ‘WeMedi HK Dental Protector’ covers both basic and complex dental treatments [4] with an annual coverage limit of up to HK$17,000.

Comprehensive Multi-Channel Promotion
To maximize reach, Blue has rolled out an extensive multi-channel promotional campaign across digital and physical touchpoints in Hong Kong. The campaign’s core messages will be featured on online video platforms, social media, MTR station displays, bus seatback stickers, and various outdoor placements to deepen Blue’s connection with the mass public.

“Our goal is to put the power back into the hands of consumers,” said Mr. Danny Wu, VP & Head of Digital & Marketing of Blue. “Through our user-friendly digital platform, we give customers the freedom to choose transparent, high-value insurance solutions that truly fit their lives.”

To celebrate the launch, new users who successfully register as Blue members during the campaign period can receive a free beverage voucher. For more details about the campaign, please visit: https://www.blue.com.hk/hk/promotions/2026-branding-campaign

Blue Insurance Limited is authorized and regulated by the Insurance Authority under the Insurance Ordinance (Cap. 41) to sell insurance products in Hong Kong. Terms and conditions apply to the above products and offers. Please refer to the product documents and policy provisions for details.

Remarks

[1] “Lowest Rate Guaranteed” compares the standard premiums of two quotations. To be eligible for the “Lowest Rate Guaranteed”, the two quotations must be on the same sum assured, premium payment term, policy benefit term, issue age, sex, and smoking status, and is applicable to term life policies that are intended for online sale and in Hong Kong only. “Lowest Rate Guaranteed” is not applicable for submitted applications and inforced policies.

[2] “Guaranteed return rate 4.12% p.a.” refers to the annualised guaranteed return rate of the 3-year plan upon maturity. Early surrender charges apply. “WeSave Short Term Insurance Plan ST1” is a savings insurance plan, not a Bank savings product.

[3] One visit per each category of Outpatient Services per day. The discount may vary per network doctor and category of Outpatient Services.

[4] Coinsurance required for basic and complex treatments.

Hashtag: #BlueHK #DigitalInsurance #InsurTech #FinTechHK




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

About Blue

Blue is the first digital life insurer in Hong Kong. It is a joint venture between Hillhouse Capital, a leading investment management firm with extensive investment experience, and Tencent Holdings Limited, a leading Internet value added services provider. Blue focuses on providing simple, flexible and valuable insurance solutions. It is committed to making people’s lives easier by empowering them to take charge of their own protection. For more information, please visit .

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TUMI Introduces AXIS, A New Expression of Quiet Innovation for Modern Life

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23 hours ago

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04/08/2026

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HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 August 2026 – TUMI, international travel, lifestyle, and accessories brand, unveils AXIS for Fall/Winter 2026, a forward-thinking collection that redefines modern travel and lifestyle with precision design and global sensibility. Designed for a younger generation navigating daily life with movement, intention, and ease, AXIS is built on a philosophy of quiet innovation, featuring soft and lightweight nylon with a minimalist silhouette, adapting effortlessly to the rhythms of work, travel, and everything in between.

(L to R): The Medium Sling in Black, The Medium Tote in Black

Centered on backpacks and small bags, AXIS reflects how today’s professionals move. In an era shaped by hybrid work, outdoor influences, and multi-environment living, bags have evolved beyond accessories into essential components of a functional wardrobe. From daily commutes to travel and weekend movement, AXIS is designed for 24/7 adaptability.

Designed to engage a younger demographic, AXIS fosters early brand affinity through versatile silhouettes grounded in performance, quality, and design. As customers’ needs evolve, TUMI continues to offer solutions for every phase of life.

(L to R): The Medium Crossbody in Navy, Black Reflective and Black
(L to R): The Medium Crossbody in Navy, Black Reflective and Black

The collection is offered in Black and Navy as core colorways, alongside a limited-edition option in Black Reflective. Every piece is crafted from lightweight nylon with a recycled lining, with clean structure and performance-led ease.

Key product features include a sporty cocoon silhouette, intuitive organization, and quick-access strap storage. An athletic, breathable back panel and side-wing design, inspired by performance running vests, are paired with angled leather accents. Together, these elements create a collection that feels technical, contemporary, and unmistakably TUMI.

Designed to move naturally with the body, AXIS delivers fluidity, comfort, and seamless organization through a refined technical aesthetic, balancing utility and restraint in every moment.

(L to R): Large Backpack 25L, Medium Backpack 20L, Medium Tote, Medium Crossbody, and Medium Sling in Black
(L to R): Large Backpack 25L, Medium Backpack 20L, Medium Tote, Medium Crossbody, and Medium Sling in Black

“AXIS was created for a generation that is always moving forward, inspired by technology, and modernity. It was designed for the new TUMI customer whose journey does not begin and end with traditional working hours, but is defined by everything happening in their life. With its minimalist design, architectural influences, and subtle technical details, AXIS offers a new perspective on what an essential bag can be. It represents the next chapter for TUMI and for a new generation of customers who are constantly on the move.” said Victor Sanz, Global Creative Director at TUMI.

The Fall 2026 TUMI AXIS collection is available now at TUMI.com and in TUMI stores worldwide. For more on the collection, follow @TUMITravel.

Hashtag: #TUMI

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

About TUMI

Since 1975, TUMI has been creating world-class business, travel, and performance luxury essentials, designed to upgrade, uncomplicate and beautify all aspects of life on the move. Blending flawless functionality with a spirit of ingenuity, we’re committed to empowering journeys as a lifelong partner to movers and makers in pursuit of their passions. For more about TUMI, visit and follow on , , , and .

TUMI and TUMI logo are registered trademarks of Tumi, Inc. © 2026 Tumi, Inc.

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Etiqa Insurance Singapore Launches Enrich Index Income that Combines Index-Linked Growth Potential with Capital Protection at Maturity

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24 hours ago

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04/08/2026

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New endowment plan offers potential yearly cash benefits, downside resilience and access to the Barclays Regime-Aware Dynamic Asset Rotation (“Barclays RADAR”) 6% RC Indices.

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 August 2026 – Etiqa Insurance Singapore has launched Enrich Index Income, a new non-participating endowment plan, which provides dual benefits of insurance protection and index exposure with capital guaranteed at maturity, allowing one’s cash value to grow over the long term with peace of mind.

Customers can get non-guaranteed yearly cash benefits linked to the performance of the Barclays RADAR 6% RC SGD Index or Barclays RADAR 6% RC USD Index. Barclays RADAR 6% RC Index is an investment approach that diversifies allocation across U.S. equities, bonds and commodities, with dynamic adjustments to weather through changing market conditions. Customers can choose to receive the non-guaranteed yearly cash benefits as income or accumulate them through reinvestment to support longer term financial goals.

“Today’s investors are seeking solutions that can help them grow their wealth without exposing their savings to the full impact of market volatility. Enrich Index Income is designed for customers who want to participate in market opportunities while maintaining greater peace of mind through capital guaranteed at maturity. The flexibility to receive potential yearly cash benefits or reinvest them allows customers to enhance long term financial confidence, according to their financial goals and aspirations. This reflects our commitment to making financial planning simpler, more accessible and more relevant to the needs of modern investors” said Claudia Soh, acting CEO and CFO of Etiqa Insurance Singapore.

“Investors today are navigating an increasingly complex and rapidly changing market landscape. The Barclays RADAR 6% RC Index, available in both Singapore dollar and US dollar, is designed to simplify investing through an innovative, regime-aware framework that dynamically allocates across equities, bonds and commodities as market conditions evolve. By aiming to seek an optimal allocation for the prevailing market environment, the index aims to balance growth potential with risk management. We are pleased to leverage our expertise in index investing through our partnership with Etiqa Insurance Singapore, helping investors pursue their long-term financial goals with greater confidence.” said Stephane Goursat, Head of EQD Institutional Sales, Asia at Barclays.

Enrich Index Income enables customers to:

  • Participate in index-linked growth potential through Barclays RADAR 6% RC Index.
  • Receive potential non-guaranteed yearly cash benefits when the underlying index delivers positive performance.
  • Enjoy capital guaranteed at maturity to help protect customers’ principal over the policy term.
  • Benefit from a 0% floor rate, ensuring yearly cash benefits are never negative due to adverse market performance.
  • Have the flexibility to pay via a single premium or over three years.
  • Have the flexibility to receive yearly cash benefits as income or reinvest them to support long-term wealth accumulation.
  • Access protection benefits including death, accidental death and terminal illness coverage.
  • Purchase with no medical assessment required

Enrich Index Income is part of Etiqa Insurance Singapore’s robust suite of wealth, investment, protection, and legacy planning solutions designed to help customers accumulate wealth, protect health, and transfer legacy.

For more information, please visit https://www.etiqa.com.sg/personal/savings-retirement/enrich-index-income

Terms apply. Protected up to specified limits by SDIC.

Hashtag: #EtiqaInsuranceSingapore

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

About Etiqa Insurance Pte. Ltd (Etiqa Insurance Singapore)

Protecting customers since 1961, Etiqa Insurance Singapore is a licensed life and general insurance company regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) and governed by the Insurance Act 1966.

The company is the Singapore operating entity of the Etiqa Insurance Group, one of ASEAN’s leading insurance and Takaful providers, offering life and general insurance as well as family and general Takaful products through its network of agents, branches, offices, and bancassurance network across the region.

Etiqa Insurance Singapore is rated ‘A’ by Fitch Ratings, reflecting the group’s favourable business profile and “Very Strong” capitalisation. The company is owned by Maybank, the fourth-largest banking group in Southeast Asia.

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