Media OutReach
Sri Lanka Bar Smoke & Bitters Honoured With Coveted Michter’s Art Of Hospitality Award As Part Of Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2026
The acclaimed island bar becomes the first Sri Lankan venue to receive this prestigious hospitality award
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 June 2026 – Sri Lanka’s celebrated coastal venue Smoke & Bitters has been named winner of the Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award in the run-up to Asia’s 50 Best Bars 2026.
Voted for by more than 300 members of the Asia’s 50 Best Bars Academy, this award recognises an establishment that has delivered exceptional hospitality over the past 18 months, setting a new benchmark for guest experience across the region.
Located on Pehembiya Beach in Dikwella on Sri Lanka’s southern coast, Smoke & Bitters has risen steadily since opening in January 2020. In 2025, it ranked No.14 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars and No.67 on the extended list of The World’s 50 Best Bars, becoming the first bar in Sri Lanka to feature on the global ranking. The venue has also been named The Best Bar in Sri Lanka on the Asia’s 50 Best Bars list for four consecutive years.
The brainchild of co-founders Don Ranasinghe and Lahiru Perera, Smoke & Bitters was created to showcase Sri Lanka’s culinary heritage and ingredients through a contemporary cocktail and dining experience. Their commitment to authenticity means all dishes are cooked using traditional wood fire – either smoked or chargrilled – as signified by ‘Smoke’ in the name, while ‘Bitters’ reflects bitters from indigenous Sri Lankan herbs and spices which dominate a cocktail menu inspired by myriad global cultures.
Beyond its culinary and cocktail philosophy, hospitality lies at the core of the Smoke & Bitters experience. Reflecting Sri Lanka’s culture of warmth and generosity, the team delivers service that is relaxed yet attentive, creating an easy-going beachfront setting where guests feel genuinely welcomed. This balance of informality and care has become a defining feature of the bar and underpins its recognition with the Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award.
The drinks menu draws inspiration from early Tiki pioneers while integrating local ingredients and techniques. Signature serves such as the Bananarama combine smoked wild bee honey with Rockland arrack, banana peel, falernum and smoked hellfire bitters, reflecting the bar’s flair for layering smoke and spice. The playful Mai Chai blends Ceylon chai tea with rum, triple sec, spiced orgeat and chai syrup, lifted by elemakule tiki bitters, while Pani Like Dodang balances Sri Lankan sweet orange and gin with ginger honey, triple sec, salt and pepper, mint and orange bitters. The bar has become recognised for its ingredient-led cocktails built around seasonal local produce such as rambutan, mangosteen and woodapple, underscoring its commitment to celebrating Sri Lanka’s natural bounty.
Emma Sleight, Director of Content & Creative for Asia’s 50 Best Bars, says: “Smoke & Bitters has played a pivotal role in redefining perceptions of Sri Lanka’s bar scene. Its commitment to local ingredients, open-fire cooking and heartfelt hospitality creates an experience that feels both deeply personal and globally relevant. Congratulations to Don, Lahiru and the entire team on this well-deserved recognition.”
Don Ranasinghe & Lahiru Perera, Co-Founders of Smoke & Bitters say: “It’s honestly pretty crazy to receive the Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award and see Sri Lankan hospitality being recognised on this level. We’ve always believed there’s something really special about the way people welcome and look after you on our island, so this means a huge amount not just to our team, but to the wider hospitality community in Sri Lanka as well. From day one, Smoke & Bitters has been about creating a warm, relaxed space genuinely rooted in our culture—so to be recognised for our hospitality is incredibly meaningful.”
Matt Magliocco, Executive Vice President for Michter’s, says: “Congratulations to Don Ranasinghe, Lahiru Perera, and the entire Smoke & Bitters team on winning the Art of Hospitality Award. Smoke & Bitters has become recognised as a destination for thoughtful hospitality, and we’re delighted to celebrate this well-deserved achievement.”
The Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award is the first of two special accolades to be announced ahead of the 11th edition of Asia’s 50 Best Bars, sponsored by Perrier. The 2026 edition will culminate in a live awards ceremony at Wynn Palace, Macau on 28 July, featuring a red-carpet celebration and the official unveiling of The Best Bar in Asia 2026.
This year’s programme is designed to encourage dialogue and creative exchange within the drinks industry, with curated events such as the Bartenders’ Feast, highlighting Macau’s vibrant food and beverage culture, and Meet the Bartenders, an intimate media roundtable. The ceremony will also be livestreamed on the 50 Best YouTube channel, allowing bar professionals and enthusiasts around the world to take part virtually.
About Asia’s 50 Best Bars
Asia’s 50 Best Bars is the first regional event of The World’s 50 Best Bars brand, created in 2016 with the purpose of showcasing the best and most innovative talent in the drinks industry in this region. The annual ranking is based on the votes of the Asia’s 50 Best Bars Academy, comprising the most knowledgeable and travelled members of the bar industry, drinks media and mixology experts from across Asia. The Academy spans dozens of cities across the continent, reflecting the relative development and importance of bar scenes in different locations and the diversity of the drinking scene in Asia. Asia’s 50 Best Bars, The World’s 50 Best Bars, North America’s 50 Best Bars and Europe’s 50 Best Bars are owned and organised by William Reed, the group behind The World’s 50 Best Restaurants, The World’s 50 Best Hotels and The World’s 50 Best Vineyards.
About the host destination partners Wynn Macau and Wynn Palace
Wynn Macau is a luxury integrated resort in Macau with two iconic towers featuring a total of 1,014 spacious rooms, luxury retail, 11 food and beverage outlets, two spas, a salon and a pool. The resort proudly boasts three distinct entertainment experiences, including the choreographed Performance Lake, blending lofty plumes of water, gracefully choreographed, powerful LED lights and fire effects.
For more information, visit press.wynnmacau.com.
Wynn Palace is Wynn’s second luxury integrated resort. Located in the Cotai area, it features a 28-storey hotel with 1,706 exquisitely furnished rooms, versatile meeting facilities, renowned luxury retail, 12 food and beverage outlets, an upmarket food hall featuring 6 standalone restaurants and a variety of additional food offerings, Macau’s largest spa, a salon and a pool. The resort also features a variety of entertainment experiences, including the dazzling eight-acre Performance Lake, the unique SkyCab, an immersive entertainment center, largescale floral sculptures and an extensive collection of Western and Asian art displays.
For more information, visit press.wynnpalace.com.
About the Award Sponsor Michter’s:
Based in Louisville, Kentucky, Michter’s celebrates an extraordinarily rich heritage tracing back to 1753. The Michter’s team spares no expense in its efforts to produce the greatest American whiskey possible, with tremendous attention given to every step in the production process. Michter’s has received extensive critical acclaim for its line of Bourbon, Rye, Sour Mash, and American whiskeys.
Our Partners
- Wynn Resorts Macau – Official Host Destination Partner
- Perrier – Official Water Partner, sponsor of The Best Bar in Asia
- SevenRooms – Official Booking Platform Partner, sponsor of SevenRooms Best Bar Design Award
- Doordash – Official Delivery Partner
- Michter’s – Official American Whiskey Partner, sponsor of Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award
- Nikka Whisky – Official Whisky of the World Partner, sponsor of Nikka Highest Climber Award
- Ketel One – Official Vodka Partner, sponsor of Ketel One Sustainable Bar Award
- Three Cents – Official Mixers Partner, sponsor of Three Cents Best New Opening Award
- Siete Misterios – Official Mezcal Partner, sponsor of Siete Misterios Best Cocktail Menu Award
- NOAM – Official Beer Partner
- Roku Gin – Official Gin Partner, sponsor of Roku Industry Icon Award
- Altos Tequila – Official Tequila Partner, sponsor of Altos Bartenders’ Bartender Award
- Cointreau – Official Orange Liqueur Partner, sponsor ceremonial scarves
- Rémy Martin – Official Cognac Partner, sponsor of Rémy Martin Legend of the List Award
- Langjiu – Official Baiju Partner
- Torres Brandy – Official Brandy Partner, sponsor of a Best in Destination Award
- Monkey Shoulder – Official Scotch Whisky Partner, sponsor of a Best in Destination Award
- Disaronno – Official Italian Liquor Partner, sponsor of a Best in Destination Award
- Amaro Lucano – Official Amaro Partner
- Campari – Official Bitters Partner
- Mancino Vermouth – Official Vermouth Partner
- Back to the Roots – Official Root Beer Liqueur Partner
Hashtag: #Asia’s50BestBars
http://www.worlds50bestbars.com/asia
https://bit.ly/50BestYouTubePR
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Media OutReach
TELOSIN Introduces “The Dual Transformation,” Pairing Y PRO Red and Y PRO Blue with the New Lumiactive Collection
The new skincare system brings together FDA-cleared, NASA-inspired light technology, complementary formulations and award-winning patented design by Karim Rashid, following a Hong Kong launch attended by more than 2,000 guests
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 July 2026 – TELOSIN has introduced “The Dual Transformation,” a new approach to personalised at-home skincare built around two dedicated light-based beauty devices—the Y PRO Red and Y PRO Blue—and the complementary Lumiactive Collection.
The launch brings together advanced light-based technology, targeted skincare formulations and award-winning patented design created in collaboration with internationally acclaimed designer Karim Rashid.
Rather than incorporating multiple generalised modes within a single device, TELOSIN developed two distinct devices and two dedicated skincare pathways.
Y PRO Red is designed for a rejuvenation-focused skincare routine, supporting the appearance of firmness, texture and radiance.
Y PRO Blue is designed for routines focused on blemish-prone, oily or visibly unsettled skin.
The devices combine FDA-cleared technology with light-based innovation inspired by scientific developments associated with NASA research.
Introducing the Lumiactive Collection
The Y PRO devices are accompanied by the new Lumiactive Collection, comprising:
- LUMIRED Red LED Treatment Gel
- LUMIBLUE Blue LED Treatment Gel
- Blue Light Defense Cream
Together, the devices and complementary formulations establish TELOSIN’s connected Prepare, Treat, Protect approach to skincare.
The dedicated Lumiactive treatment gels are designed to prepare the skin for the corresponding Y PRO routine, while Blue Light Defense Cream completes the ritual as part of the brand’s wider daily skincare approach.
By developing the devices and formulations as one connected collection, TELOSIN aims to make advanced light-based skincare easier to understand, personalise and incorporate into regular at-home routines.
The result is a complete ecosystem built around two targeted transformations: a red-light pathway focused on rejuvenation and a blue-light pathway focused on skin clarity and balance.
Scientific Insight Behind TELOSIN
TELOSIN has expanded the scientific conversation surrounding the launch through its expert video series, “The Science Behind Telosin,” available on the brand’s website.
The series features expert perspectives from two medical professionals:
Dr. Omer Wolf, MD, a specialist in plastic and reconstructive surgery and advanced facial aesthetic procedures.
Dr. Uri Berger, MD, a specialist in aesthetic medicine with extensive international medical training and experience.
Through the expert series, TELOSIN provides consumers with accessible information about the principles behind light-based skincare and the evolving relationship between professional aesthetic knowledge, beauty technology and at-home routines.
The inclusion of medical perspectives within the wider educational programme reflects TELOSIN’s commitment to supporting product innovation through informed scientific discussion and responsible consumer education.
Award-Winning Patented Design by Karim Rashid
The Y PRO Red and Y PRO Blue were created in collaboration with Karim Rashid, one of the world’s most recognised contemporary designers.
The devices feature award-winning patented design that combines Rashid’s distinctive visual language with TELOSIN’s advanced beauty technology.
Their fluid silhouettes, individual colour identities and ergonomic forms were developed not simply to contain sophisticated technology, but to transform the devices into desirable contemporary objects that can become a natural part of the user’s daily beauty environment.
The collaboration reflects TELOSIN’s belief that advanced skincare devices should deliver a sophisticated combination of performance, simplicity, comfort and emotional connection.
“The Dual Transformation” Unveiled to More Than 2,000 Guests in Hong Kong
The complete collection was officially presented on 30 June 2026 through “The Dual Transformation,” an immersive launch experience held at WTC Mall in Hong Kong.
The large-scale event welcomed more than 2,000 guests, including consumers, members of the Hong Kong media, influencers, beauty industry professionals and invited partners.
The launch featured internationally acclaimed designer Karim Rashid, MIRROR member Ian Chan, celebrated actress and singer Linda Chung, and Dr. Harvey Ho.
Karim Rashid introduced the creative thinking behind the award-winning patented design of the devices, while Dr. Harvey Ho discussed the different applications and skincare pathways associated with red and blue light technology.
Ian Chan and Linda Chung joined the launch presentation to experience the two routines and demonstrate how the Y PRO devices and complementary Lumiactive formulations can be incorporated into contemporary at-home skincare.
“The Dual Transformation demonstrates that advanced beauty technology does not need to feel clinical or complicated,” said Dr. Harvey Ho.
“By bringing together two dedicated light-based devices with complementary Lumiactive formulations, TELOSIN has created a more focused and intuitive approach to at-home skincare. The distinction between the red and blue light pathways also helps consumers better understand how different technologies can support different skincare needs.”
With more than 2,000 guests attending, the event marked a major public introduction of TELOSIN’s broader product ecosystem: two targeted devices, three complementary skincare formulations and one connected approach to personalised light-based skincare.
A Complete Dual Skincare System
With Y PRO Red, Y PRO Blue and the Lumiactive Collection, TELOSIN is introducing more than two individual beauty devices.
“The Dual Transformation” represents a complete skincare system built around clearly defined objectives, dedicated formulations and award-winning patented design.
It reflects the brand’s wider ambition to make sophisticated light-based technology more personalised, intuitive and accessible, while maintaining the premium design experience expected by contemporary beauty consumers.
Hashtag: #TELOSIN
https://www.telosin.com
https://www.instagram.com/telosin_official/?hl=en
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About TELOSIN
TELOSIN develops premium at-home skincare devices and complementary formulations that bring together advanced light-based technology, scientific insight, award-winning patented design and an intuitive user experience.
Through continued product development and collaborations with internationally recognised designers and medical professionals, TELOSIN aims to make sophisticated beauty technology more personalised, accessible and desirable.
TELOSIN products are available online atwww.telosin.com, at The Mineral Boutique stores, through selected premium retailers and at leading clinics.
For further information, expert videos and product details, visitwww.telosin.com.
Media OutReach
SearchInform: A Risky Game – How FIFA World Cup 2026 Led to Mass Corporate Data Leaks
Experts claim that corporate employees in Southeast Asia are neglecting cybersecurity rules due to their love for football, leading to an increase in fraud cases.
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 July 2026 – Although the tournament itself took place in North America, Asia’s massive football fan base created the perfect conditions for data leaks.
Fraudsters are capitalizing on football fans by creating fake streaming platforms and malicious Android applications that steal saved passwords and account credentials directly from browsers. Criminals are also setting up fraudulent websites, as well as sending phishing emails to company employees disguised as gifts, promotions, and office betting pools.
“During major global events, the corporate security perimeter is under huge stress,” said Francis Yeoh, Country Director at SearchInform Malaysia. “Employees access streaming websites from corporate devices to watch matches live. Traditional network-edge security is insufficient—the real danger comes from the employee side of the fence. Employees could watch a translation on a malware-infested website, they could download streaming applications with hidden malware, or use corporate credentials to register for fraudulent giveaways.”
According to Group-IB and the FBI, from August 2025 to June 2026, more than 4,300 fake websites were registered fully mimicking FIFA interfaces, ticketing systems, streaming platforms, and World Cup employment portals.
How Organizations Can Reduce Cyber Risks During Football Season
- Monitor the use of corporate devices. Remind employees that corporate workstations should not be used for personal purposes, including streaming, downloading unofficial apps, or visiting suspicious websites. This measure alone can help reduce exposure to many malware threats.
- Strengthen password security. Monitor risky password practices, as some employees may reuse corporate credentials for personal services. If one of these services is compromised, corporate accounts and systems may be put at risk as well.
- Enforce multi-factor authentication. Apply MFA for privileged employees on a regular basis and temporarily strengthen authentication requirements for remote employees during high-risk periods. This provides an additional layer of protection against unauthorized access.
- Monitor data access patterns. Track who accesses critical information, from where, and monitor its transmission to prevent data loss. Make sure protection also covers cloud services, as corporate data is no longer limited to on-premises storage.
Hashtag: #SearchInform #Cybersecurity, #FIFA2026, #DataProtection
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About SearchInform
SearchInform is an information security and risk management product vendor as well as an MSS provider. The company’s clients are more than 4000 companies in 20+ countries. Today, the team has products and services for comprehensive protection against insider threats at all levels of corporate information systems: FileAuditor (the DCAP class solution); DLP system with extended functionality; Risk Monitor (advanced AI-powered platform for internal threat mitigation); SIEM system, Information Security outsourcing service.
More than 500 international buyers from 55 economies have confirmed participation
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 July 2026 – The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) invites Malaysian companies to seize new global business opportunities by registering for its flagship International Sourcing Programme (INSP) at the upcoming 22nd Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) at MITEC, Kuala Lumpur from 23 to 26 September 2026.
Building on the strong momentum of INSP MIHAS 2025, which generated RM3.63 billion in sales, this year’s edition is seeing strong international buyer interest, reinforcing MIHAS’ position as a leading global halal trade platform. INSP MIHAS 2026 features key products and services categories including:
- Agricultural Produce;
- Apparel, Garments and Accessories;
- Beverages;
- Education;
- Fashion Accessories and Textiles;
- Footwear;
- Franchise;
- Gifts, Souvenirs and Jewellery;
- Gloves;
- Islamic Financial Services;
- Information and Communication Technology;
- Logistics;
- Machinery and Equipment;
- Packaging and Containers;
- Palm Oil Products;
- Pet Products;
- Pharmaceuticals;
- Toiletries and Cosmetics; and
- Prepared Food.
Beyond the conventional halal food and beverage segment, this year’s edition is also seeing growing interest in services sectors.
INSP MIHAS connects pre-qualified international buyers with Malaysian halal product and service exporters through pre-arranged one-on-one business meetings across key halal sectors. As buyer meeting slots are limited and allocated through a structured matching process, Malaysian companies are strongly encouraged to register early via the online portal.
According to MATRADE’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Mr. Abu Bakar Yusof, “Since the inception of MIHAS in 2004, the International Sourcing Programme (INSP) has generated over RM20.62 billion in export sales for Malaysian companies, with the participation of nearly 8,000 international buyers, benefiting 10,600 Malaysian sellers through 67,200 structured business meetings.
For this year, we are targeting the participation of approximately 300 buyers, of which 50 are premium buyers, reflecting our commitment to attracting high-quality decision-makers and creating greater business opportunities for Malaysian companies. We are also targeting RM2 billion in export sales under the INSP component for MIHAS 2026. To date, we have received interest from more than 500 international buyers across 55 economies, and we encourage Malaysian companies to register early to maximise their business matching opportunities.”
MIHAS 2026 is expected to generate total sales of RM4.50 billion, including export sales from the INSP. “As it stands, 15% of the interested buyers comprise returning buyers, demonstrating sustained confidence in Malaysian exporters and the compelling value proposition they continue to offer in global markets,” he added. This year’s INSP has attracted buyers from 55 different economies.
Malaysian exporters can register through the INSP MIHAS online portal and MADANI Digital Trade Platform (MDTP) before 31st July 2026 and take advantage of one of MIHAS’ most impactful business matching initiatives.
Hashtag: #MIHAS2026
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE)
For more information, please contact:
Aninawati Saleh
Head of Corporate Communication
Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE)
Tel (Direct) : 03 – 6207 7077 (7826)
Email : co***********@*********ov.my
About Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) 2026
Since it began in 2004, the Malaysia International Halal Showcase (MIHAS) has grown into a major platform for Halal trade and has helped strengthen the global industry’s position in Halal standards, governance, and market access. Recognised as a Guinness World Records holder and hosted by the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) with the Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) as organiser, MIHAS now covers 14 sectors, from food and beverages and pharmaceuticals to Islamic finance, modest fashion, personal care, technology, services, and Muslim-friendly tourism. The 22nd edition of MIHAS, themed “Shaping Trust, Driving Resilience”, will focus on regulated-by-design governance and technology-enabled trade.
About MATRADE
The Malaysia External Trade Development Corporation (MATRADE) was established on 1 March 1993 as the national trade promotional arm under Malaysia’s Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI).
MATRADE’s primary role is to assist Malaysian exporters in developing and expanding their export markets. Aligned with Malaysia’s commercial diplomacy efforts, MATRADE is the nation’s trade facilitator and champion of Malaysian-made products and services on the global stage.
