Media OutReach
Southern Thailand Pioneers ‘De-Stress Economy’ at Pakk Taii Design Week 2025
One region primed to lead this movement is Southern Thailand. Across its 14 provinces, the region combines breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, distinctive local identities, diverse ways of life, and strong infrastructure to form the foundation of a new prototype: the “De-Stress Economy.” This forward-looking model places happiness at its core, harnessing creative city design and high-quality tourism, along with products and services that restore both body and mind. Its success will be measured not only by economic value, but also by feelings of safety, comfort, hope, and joy.
The Southern Region: A De-Stress Economy Sandbox
The “De-Stress Economy,” a new economic model focused on well-being and emotional comfort, is set to be piloted for the first time in Southeast Asia at Pakk Taii Design Week 2025 (PTDW2025), Southern Thailand’s annual creative festival now in its third year. Organized by the Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization), or CEA, in collaboration with public and private partners, creative communities, and local stakeholders, the festival will take place from 28 August to 7 September 2025, across Songkhla Old Town and Hat Yai under the theme “South Paradise.”
Far more than a creative showcase, PTDW2025 serves as a policy sandbox — a real-world testing ground for an economic model that puts well-being at the center. The goal is to establish a health and wellness economy that investors, entrepreneurs, and creatives across the region should not overlook.
To drive this new model, CEA has launched two flagship initiatives: the ‘South Market,’ a prototype platform for wellness-driven products and services, and the ‘Hero Product Incubator,’ designed to cultivate creative entrepreneurs from across all 14 southern provinces and scale innovations aligned with the De-Stress Economy. A centerpiece of the festival will be the exhibition “South De-Stress,” which spotlights the region’s rich culture, local wisdom, architecture, and landscapes — positioning Southern Thailand as a source of distinctive, globally competitive, and sustainable business opportunities.
Four Investment Opportunity Clusters in the Southern De-Stress Economy
For this new model, the 14 southern provinces have been grouped into four clusters — Calm, Relax, Energize, and Worry-Free — based on their suitability for living, investment, and tourism. These clusters are aligned with an “Emotional Value Proposition,” designed to meet the holistic quality-of-life needs of the new generation of consumers. The opportunities span across areas like quality tourism, creative lifestyles, the wellness industry, and sustainable businesses.
The potential of each cluster will be showcased through creative activities at PTDW2025, allowing participants to feel and explore how the happiness-driven economy can be realized in practice.
(1) Moment of Calm — Nakhon Si Thammarat, Narathiwat, and Phang Nga — This cluster emphasizes wellness and spiritual retreat businesses that link faith, craftsmanship, and positive energy.
- Nakhon Si Thammarat: As a ‘City of Faith’ or ‘Hip & Holy’ rooted in centuries of culture and belief, the city is ideal for investments in Spiritual Wellness & Retreat, and contemporary crafts that deeply connect local wisdom with personal experiences. Highlights include the exhibition “5 Merits + 1 Faith“ and immersive performance art blending light, sound, and spirituality.
- Narathiwat: A ‘Multicultural Border City’ known for its exquisite koleh boat artistry, Narathiwat is primed for contemporary lifestyle products and the halal industry as a soft power driver. Discover “Ask Yourself to Narathiwat Beyond,” a forum to explore the art, identity, and daily life of the province, while the photography exhibition “DIALOGUE” Ask Yourself to Buildings, Rivers, Boats, Forests, Mountains, Sea, and Sky, presents fresh perspectives on Narathiwat through a lens that encourages reflection and critical inquiry.
- Phang Nga: As a ‘New Hub in the Andaman Wellness Economic Corridor,’ its landscape is perfect for Healing & Aura Economy businesses, including Medical & Wellness Tourism with spas, yoga, sound therapy, and herbal medicine. This potential will be demonstrated through an immersive experience. “Jaroen Arn Pharmacy” presents storytelling-based healing with the power of stories and reading combined with workshops in yoga, sound healing, etc.
(2) The Art of Relaxing — Yala, Trang, Phatthalung, and Phuket — This cluster connects lifestyle, gastronomy, and fashion to cultural roots and new narratives.
- Yala: As the ‘Hub for Muslim Fashion,’ there is a fully integrated textile industry, ready to evolve into Malay-inspired fashion brands and fashion-tech products for the regional Muslim market. This potential will be showcased through “NAYU COUTURE,” a runway exhibition of contemporary Muslim fashion, complemented by talks and workshops designed to inspire the next generation.
- Trang: As a ‘City of Multicultural Food,’ it is primed for growth in gastronomy business and food & root branding that elevates local ingredients into global stories. The exhibition “Trang O-cha” presents visitors to savor the profound flavors and narratives of Trang’s cuisine.
- Phatthalung: ‘Strong in Local Agriculture under the BCG Model,’ particularly rice varieties, the province has the potential to develop health, beauty, and specialty food products under the “Rice and Growth” concept. The “Tam RICE – Tam-Hrai?” exhibition showcases rice as a cultural emblem and a driver of global opportunity.
- Phuket: ‘Evolving beyond Tourism into a Wellness MICE and Global Rehabilitation Space,’ Phuket caters to digital nomads and international retirees a world-class lifestyle. The festival will feature exhibitions and activities that prompt new questions about Phuket’s possibilities.
(3) Place of Energize — Krabi, Songkhla, and Surat Thani — This cluster focuses on creative experiences and adventure tourism that inspire and engage multiple generations.
- Krabi: As a ‘Land of ‘Ancient Nature and History,’ Krabi is ideal for investment in Edutainment, Geo-Tourism, and learning-based experiences. The “Cave Calls: A Thousand-Year Journal Waiting to Be Discovered” exhibition explores ancient geological wonders while blending science and local wisdom in all ages.
- Songkhla: A ‘Cultural and Creative Connector City’ with strong heritage districts, museums, and contemporary artist networks, Songkhla is primed for co-creation spaces, design retail, and creative events. Its showcase, “Mermaid Song.exe,” captures the intergenerational voices of Songkhla.
- Surat Thani: Known as ‘A Festival and Entertainment Destination,’ harnesses the vibrancy of Koh Samui, Koh Phangan, and Koh Tao as stages for Beach Festivals, Music Culture, and Sportainment. Under the concept of “Fancy & Party Me,” the festival will feature music festivals and creative event gatherings with local and international artists, installations from recycled materials, workshops, and kids’ zones – showcasing its dynamic blends of celebration and creativity.
(4) Stage of Worry-Free — Chumphon, Ranong, Satun, and Pattani — This cluster highlights minimalist inspirations, ecological tourism, and sustainability innovation.
- Chumphon: As a ‘Coastal Province Rooted in Blue Economy and Marine Conservation Tourism,’ it fosters immersive soundscape experiences and sustainable research-tourism through the “Beneath Chumphon’s Waves” program. This vision comes to life in the “Sailing Sounds of the Sea” exhibition and the “Creative Sounds from the Sea” workshop, where participants can listen, explore, and transform the ocean’s rhythms into healing creativity.
- Ranong: Known as a ‘City of Slow Living, Forest Bathing, and Wellness Retreats,’ it is surrounded by nature and a planned land bridge to connect the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea, it’s a prime location for a western eco-city. The “Rare-Nong” exhibition will offer an immersive experience that lets visitors soak in the year-round rainy-city atmosphere and a rare sense of peace.
- Satun: A ‘Global Geopark with a Strong Local Fishing Culture,’ it is suited for sustainable food processing, cultural tourism, and sustainable food security platforms. The “Satun Folk & Fine” exhibition and one-day trip activity highlight community-based living and marine culture.
- Pattani: Emerging as a ‘Center for Climate Tech and the Circular Economy,’ Pattani is ideal for green startups, eco-innovation, and regional disaster preparedness learning centers. The “Coping with the Present: Environment and Alternative Materials” talk will spark dialogue about a sustainable future, while the “WAQAF – A Space for Contemporary Coexistence” exhibition will present a model for designing public spaces that balance culture, resources, and people.
All four clusters reflect the South’s geographical, cultural, and infrastructural strengths, making the region an attractive destination for investment in the wellness economy. The Global Wellness Institute reports that the global wellness market was valued at over $5.6 trillion in 2024 and is growing at an average rate of 8.6% per year, particularly in the areas of wellness tourism, mental wellness, and creative experiences.
PTDW2025 is more than a creative festival — it is a ‘platform for opportunity’ for investors, entrepreneurs, and creatives to launch pilot projects, discover local talent, and forge policy and business collaborations that deliver sustainable economic and social impact. The event will feature a diverse range of programs, including exhibitions, performance art, talks, workshops, creative markets, etc.
As the saying goes, “In the next economy, well-being is the new era.” In the decades ahead, well-being will emerge as a powerful value and the defining soft power of the 21st century. Experience this transformation at Pakk Taii Design Week 2025, taking place 28 August – 7 September 2025, 11.00 – 21.00 hrs, in Songkhla Old Town and Hat Yai, Songkhla Province. Discover the untapped potential of all 14 southern provinces from fresh perspectives, and find your own equation for happiness in the “South Paradise” experience.
For more details, please visit www.pakktaiidesignweek.com or follow us on FB/IG: pakktaiidesignweek.
Hashtag: #PTDW2025 #PakkTaiiDesignWeek #SouthParadise #CEA
https://www.pakktaiidesignweek.com/ptdw2025
https://www.facebook.com/pakktaiidesignweek
https://www.instagram.com/pakktaiidesignweek
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About Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization), or CEA
Creative Economy Agency (Public Organization), or CEA, is a dedicated government agency tasked with fostering creativity as a key driver of the creative economy. CEA focuses on developing various creative industries and encouraging the manufacturing sector to adopt creative approaches to enhance product and service value, thereby elevating Thailand’s global competitiveness.
Three new Laguna Phuket developments – spanning lakeside living, golf-front design and Angsana-branded luxury – to be showcased at Fairmont Singapore on 23–24 May
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 May 2026 – Banyan Group Residences is bringing three of its most anticipated new residential launches to Singapore this month, with a two-day sales exhibition taking place at Fairmont Singapore, Orchard Room (4F) on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 May 2026, from 11:00 am to 6:00 pm. The event offers Singapore buyers a rare opportunity to explore and invest in some of Phuket’s most compelling new addresses, with dedicated sales teams on hand for private consultations.
The exhibitions follow a year of record residential sales for Banyan Group Residences, as growing numbers of global investors look to Phuket as a safe haven for capital – drawn by the island’s political stability, strong rental yields, year-round lifestyle appeal, and the relative value it continues to offer against comparable markets. Demand has been particularly robust from buyers across Asia, the Middle East, and Europe, with Singapore consistently ranking among the Group’s top source markets worldwide.
The three projects on show represent some of the most exciting new additions to Laguna Phuket – Asia’s premier integrated resort destination – and span a range of living concepts, price points, and design inspirations, united by the hallmark quality and hospitality expertise of Banyan Group Residences, Asia’s leading branded residential developer by volume.
“Singapore has long been one of our most important buyer markets, and we’re delighted to be returning with what we believe is our strongest line-up yet,” said Stuart Reading, Managing Director of Banyan Group Residences. “Whether you’re looking for a holiday retreat, a permanent base in a world-class resort community, or a smart long-term investment, this exhibition offers something genuinely compelling. High-quality property in a prime location at Laguna Phuket still represents outstanding value compared to equivalent homes in Singapore or other major cities.”
Bellaguna Lake Residences
Brand new blocks of Bellaguna Lake Residences will be revealed for the first time at the exhibition. Set beside a shimmering lake within Laguna Phuket – steps from Bang Tao Beach – the development takes its design cues from the sleek lines of a contemporary luxury yacht. Five elegantly elongated buildings feature dark wave-like façades and warm, light-filled interiors, with generous private terraces overlooking the lagoon. Residences include one- to three-bedroom condominiums and two- to three-bedroom penthouses with private rooftop pools, as well as a brand new category of two-bedroom residences with private pool.
Bellaguna is Banyan Group Residences’ newest residential brand, conceived specifically for premium year-round living outside of hotel inventory – yet fully supported by the Group’s renowned hospitality management standards.
Bellaguna Golf Residences
Set on land that once formed part of Phuket’s historic tin-mining landscape, Bellaguna Golf Residences draws its design identity from that heritage – soft horizontal lines and sculpted contours reinterpreted through a contemporary tropical lens. Low-rise buildings unfold amid lush gardens and a signature free-form pool, overlooking the fairways of the championship Laguna Golf Phuket course. A brand new block has also just been released for this project, which features a compact one-bedroom configuration, alongside one- to three-bedroom condominiums and two- to three-bedroom penthouses with private pools and sunset golf views.
Angsana Golf Residences Topaz
Inspired by the clarity and elegance of the topaz gemstone, Angsana Golf Residences Topaz comprises three gracefully curved low-rise buildings set within Laguna Phuket, with Sino-Portuguese design accents that subtly reference Phuket’s cultural heritage. The development offers two- and three-bedroom residences and exclusive penthouses with private rooftop pools, all enjoying panoramic views of the golf course, mountains, and the Andaman Sea. A signature rooftop ring-shaped pool completes the picture.
Show units are now available for all three projects at the Laguna Property Sales Gallery.
Banyan Living
Banyan Group has recently launched Banyan Living, a residential rental and marketing platform created to support owners of branded residences across the Group’s portfolio, while offering guests a professionally managed alternative to traditional home‑sharing platforms.
Developed as a structured, hospitality-led rental ecosystem, Banyan Living enables private owners to generate income from their residences, while providing guests who rent the properties assurance of the design integrity and professional service standards associated with Banyan Group.
Why Phuket, Why Now
Phuket continues to attract growing international interest as both a lifestyle destination and an investment market. Within Laguna Phuket, nationals of some 70 countries have chosen to make the resort community their home, drawn by year-round tropical living, world-class amenities, international schools, medical facilities, and a level of quality and security that is difficult to match elsewhere in the region.
Banyan Group Residences anticipates launching up to USD 1 billion in new luxury residential projects in Phuket over the next two to three years, reflecting the Group’s confidence in the market and the enduring strength of demand from international buyers.
Prospective buyers are welcome to visit the exhibition at Fairmont Singapore, Orchard Room (4F), on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 May 2026, between 11:00 am and 6:00 pm. Private appointments can be arranged in advance by contacting the team directly.
Hashtag: #BanyanGroup #BanyanGroupResidences #LagunaPhuket
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Banyan Group
Banyan Group (“Banyan Tree Holdings Limited” or the “Group” – SGX: B58) is an independent, global hospitality company with purpose. The Group prides itself on its pioneering spirit, design-led experiences and commitment to responsible stewardship. Its extensive portfolio spans more than 100 properties, over 140 spas and galleries, and 20-plus branded residences in over 20 countries. Comprising 12 global brands, including the flagship Banyan Tree, each distinct yet united under the experiential membership programme with Banyan. The founding ethos of “Embracing the Environment, Empowering People” is embodied through the Banyan Global Foundation and Banyan Management Academy. Banyan Group is committed to remaining the leading advocate of sustainable travel, with a focus on regenerative tourism and innovative programmes that elevate the guest experience.
About Laguna Phuket
Laguna Phuket is Asia’s premier integrated resort destination, set against the stunning backdrop of the Andaman Sea. Spanning over 1,000 acres, the resort features six luxury hotels, an award-winning 18-hole golf course, fine dining, luxury spas, and branded residences. Guests benefit from complimentary shuttle services, a cashless payment system, and access to world-class recreational and wellness facilities.
About Banyan Group Residences
Banyan Group Residences is the property development arm of leading hospitality pioneer Banyan Group, listed on the stock exchange of Singapore. With over 35 years of development experience and an impressive portfolio of residential brands to suit different lifestyles and budgets, it is Thailand’s leading lifestyle property developer with a strong and increasingly international pipeline of projects. The Group’s main residential brands include the flagship luxury Banyan Tree Residences, Angsana Residences, Dhawa Residences, Garrya Residences, Laguna Residences, Cassia Residences, Skypark, Laguna Lakelands, and Bellaguna.
Media OutReach
CPF NH Foods Advances to Production Phase, Launches ‘CP Nippon’ Brand in Premium Processed Pork Partnership
The start of operations follows the successful establishment of the joint venture in late 2025, combining CPF’s fully integrated supply chain and regional distribution network with NH Foods’ advanced food processing technologies and product development expertise. The facility now serves as the production hub for a new generation of high-quality processed meat products, targeting both domestic and export markets including Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and other key Asian destinations.
Prasit Boondoungprasert, Chief Executive Officer of CPF, said “Starting production and introducing CP Nippon brand mark an important milestone in our partnership with NH Foods. This collaboration enables us to move beyond primary production to premium processed products, creating greater value for Thailand’s pork industry while strengthening its position as a key exporter across Asia.”
The manufacturing facility integrates advanced production systems and stringent quality assurance processes aligned with international standards, reinforcing both companies’ commitment to food safety, traceability, and sustainability. By leveraging CPF’s high-quality raw material sourcing and NH Foods’ precision manufacturing know-how, the joint venture aims to set new benchmarks in processed meat production.
Fumio Maeda, President and Chief Executive Officer of NH Foods, added “The commencement of production represents a key milestone in our collaboration with CPF. By combining our strengths in technology and product innovation with CPF’s operational excellence, we are bringing together the rich culinary traditions of Japan and Thailand to deliver refined, high-quality food experiences to consumers across Asia.”
The product range under CP Nippon brand reflects NH Foods’ Japanese culinary expertise—rooted in the craftsmanship of ryōrinin—combined with CPF’s strength in high-quality sourcing and production.
Beyond product innovation, CPF NH Foods is committed to sustainable manufacturing practices, including efficient resource utilization and environmentally responsible operations, in line with CPF’s “Kitchen of the World” vision and both companies’ long-term sustainability goals.
Hashtag: #AsianFoodInnovation #CPFNHFoods #CPFNippon #KitchenOfTheWorld #FoodInnovation #CPF
https://www.cpfworldwide.com/en/home
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Charoen Pokphand Foods Plc (CPF)
Charoen Pokphand Foods Plc (CPF) is a leading global agro-industrial and food company, operating in 17 countries and exporting to more than 50 markets worldwide. Guided by its “Kitchen of the World” vision, CPF focuses on delivering safe, high-quality, and nutritious food through a vertically integrated business model. The company integrates technology and innovation across its operations while advancing sustainability and working toward a low-carbon, resilient food system that supports global food security.
About NH Foods
NH Foods Ltd., operates in the food industry with a focus on meat products and related processed foods. The group conducts its business globally, and targets both domestic and international markets for its diversified protein and food solutions portfolio.
Media OutReach
Student Life and Campus Communities Are Becoming a Key Deciding Factor in Higher Education
This shift reflects a broader trend across the sector, where institutions are being evaluated not only on academic outcomes, but also on their ability to provide holistic student experiences that support mental wellbeing, social integration, and career readiness.
At the Singapore Institute of Management (SIM), student engagement has become a central pillar of the learning experience, with a wide network of student led clubs and communities designed to support both personal and professional development.
A Growing Priority: Belonging and Wellbeing
Industry observations indicate that students, particularly those transitioning from secondary education or arriving from overseas, often face challenges such as social isolation, cultural adjustment, and limited peer support networks. Research also highlights that being away from familiar support systems and adapting to a new cultural and academic environment can be an isolating process, contributing to increased stress, anxiety, and reduced perceived social support
To address this, SIM has developed a structured student life ecosystem supported by its Student Development initiatives and programmes such as Project1095, which emphasises learning beyond the classroom and holistic growth. With close to 80 student clubs and co-curricular activities available, students are provided with multiple avenues to build connections and integrate into campus life.
From Co-Curricular Activities to Career Readiness
Student clubs are increasingly seen as more than recreational clubs, playing a meaningful role in preparing students for the workforce. Participation in such communities enables students to develop transferable skills aligned with employer expectations, including leadership, collaboration, and communication.
At SIM, student led initiatives span a broad spectrum, from arts and cultural groups that foster creativity and teamwork through performances and events, to sports and wellness communities that promote physical resilience and discipline. Leadership platforms such as student councils provide opportunities for students to organise initiatives and represent the student body, while international student communities support cultural integration and inclusivity.
In addition, special interest and professional clubs offer exposure to industry trends and peer led learning. Collectively, these platforms provide practical experiences that complement academic programmes and contribute to graduates’ overall employability.
Reflecting a Broader Shift in Higher Education
The increasing importance placed on student life reflects a wider evolution in higher education, where institutions are expected to support both academic achievement and personal development.
By investing in student communities and engagement, institutions like SIM are responding to this shift, providing environments where students can not only gain qualifications, but also build networks, resilience, and a strong sense of identity.
As prospective students weigh their options, the availability of vibrant campus communities and support systems is likely to remain a key differentiator in the higher education landscape.
Reference:
- The experience of loneliness among international students participating in the BBC Loneliness Experiment: Thematic analysis of qualitative survey data – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666518223000189?
- Mental health concerns and needs of international students in higher education settings: A scoping review protocol – https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12334020/
- SIM CCA – https://www.sim.edu.sg/degrees-diplomas/life-at-sim/co-curricular-activities
- SIM Project 1095 – https://project1095.simge.edu.sg/
Hashtag: #SIMGlobalEducation #SIMGE #GlobalEducation #InternationalDegree #CareerReady #FutureSkills
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About SIM Global Education
SIM Global Education (SIM GE) is a leading private education institution in Singapore and the region. We offer more than 140 academic programmes ranging from diplomas and graduate diploma programmes to bachelor’s and master’s degree programmes with some of the world’s most reputable universities from Australia, Canada, Europe, United Kingdom, and the United States. SIM GE’s cohort is made up of 17,000 full- and part-time students and adult learners, of which approximately 41% are international students hailing from over 50 countries.
SIM GE’s holistic learning approach and culturally diverse learning environment aim to equip students with knowledge, industry skills and employability competencies, as well as a global perspective to succeed as future leaders in a fast-changing, technologically driven world.
For more information on SIM Global Education, visit www.sim.edu.sg
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