Media OutReach
UABBHK 2025 Responds with TECHFORMANCE: Architecture as Performance in the Age of AI
Running from 27 November 2025 to 24 January 2026, UABBHK 2025 will take place at the Oil Street Art Space (Oi!) in North Point and the East Kowloon Cultural Centre (EKCC) in Kowloon Bay. These urban venues will be transformed into experimental stages for public imagination, civic dialogue, and participatory design — responding to the rapidly evolving role of artificial intelligence (AI) in the architecture sector.
Survey Findings Reveal Gaps in Practice and Ethics
AI is rapidly reshaping architectural practice, but the profession is facing uneven adoption, limited trust, and a lack of ethical or educational guidance. Globally, 67% of architects use AI for visualisation, but more than half fear job displacement in design and rendering roles[1]. A striking 74% believe the profession needs urgent ethical guidelines. Many practitioners describe working with tools they don’t fully understand or trust—tools that may produce compelling visuals, but often lack narrative depth, cultural context, or authorship clarity.
Curatorial Response: From Tools to Performance
Against this backdrop, the UABBHK 2025 reframes AI not as a threat but as a catalyst for civic imagination and creative reinvention. “We chose the theme TECHFORMANCE because architecture is at a pivotal moment — AI is transforming how we design, while raising urgent questions about authorship, ethics, and identity”, said Ar. Allen POON, Chairman of The Hong Kong Institute of Architects Biennale Foundation. “As AI changes how we design, we must ensure it doesn’t change why we design.”
“Through TECHFORMANCE, UABBHK offers a cultural and civic response to the rise of Al in architecture. Rather than treating Al as a purely technical tool, we see it as a performative medium — a mirror that reflects our collective values, assumptions, and imaginations. Architecture is no longer a static product — it’s a civic performance”, said Dr. Jimmy HO, Lead Curator of UABBHK 2025. “We shift the focus from automation to authorship, from technology to imagination.”
At UABBHK 2025, the public will not be passive viewers but active participants — co-designing future cities and engaging directly with the possibilities and provocations of AI in architecture.
Exhibition Highlights with Three Curatorial Visions
At the heart of UABBHK 2025 are three curatorial chapters that explore how AI transforms architecture into a civic performance: real-time public co-creation, local urban narratives, and cross-border collaboration. Spanning the Oil Street Art Space (Oi!) and the East Kowloon Cultural Centre (EKCC), the exhibitions invite visitors to engage, perform, and prototype the future city.
1. Real-Time Interaction & Public Co-Creation
This chapter turns the UABBHK into a participatory lab, where AI enables live, interactive design. Installations respond to movement, touch, speech, and emotion — blurring the line between creator and audience.
At Oi!, Prompt [Pond]ering transforms keywords into speculative architecture, while AR-driven Bamboo Architecture projects full-scale holograms of bamboo structures. At EKCC, works like Sentient Mirror, Sketches in Motion, and Architecture Blind Box translate visitors’ gestures, feelings, and tactile input into dynamic spatial forms.
2. Hong Kong Urban Narratives: Community × Memory × Imagination
This chapter explores how AI can preserve, reinterpret, and reimagine the city’s collective memory.
At Oi!, installations such as LANdLine Project, Flower Market Imaginaries, and Reimagining Breeze Blocks invite the public to co-author stories of heritage and transformation. At EKCC, the Collaborative Ephemeral Pavilion—built from reused scaffolding and embedded with AI-generated narratives—becomes both a gathering space and a luminous landmark of shared memory.
3. Hong Kong – Shenzhen Collaboration
In this cross-border chapter, experimental works investigate AI’s role in shaping new urban models for the Greater Bay Area.
At EKCC, Generative Futures features real-time robotic fabrication; Think BIG – cl0udbr1dge imagines drone-constructed bridges; and Exporting Aesthetics challenges conventions of authorship and identity in AI-generated skyscrapers. Together, these projects prototype adaptive, inclusive, and technologically forward urban futures.
In parallel, the Shenzhen & Hong Kong Bi-City Biennale of UrbanismArchitecture (Shenzhen) (UABBSZ 2025) is tentatively scheduled to take place from late December 2025 to March 2026 at the Hetao Science and Technology Innovation Center. Under the theme City Theater, the exhibition expands its curatorial perspective. Curated by Zhu Tao, Shen Shaomin, and Ding Ning, it envisions urban space as a performative stage where architecture, technology, and civic life intersect. Exhibitions from Hong Kong will be showcased at the Hetao Science and Technology Innovation Center as part of UABBSZ 2025, continuing UABBHK’s legacy as the world’s first exhibition dedicated to urbanism and urbanisation—complementing Hong Kong’s focus on AI and civic performance while deepening cross-border dialogue.
Public Programmes: AI Video Competition
To engage a wider public, the curatorial teams of the 10th Bi-City Biennale of UrbanismArchitecture (Shenzhen and Hong Kong) (UABBSZ & HK) are jointly inviting creators from around the world to use artificial intelligence tools and, through innovative and forward-looking visual works, envision future scenarios for the Hetao area between Shenzhen and Hong Kong in China. Registration is now open via: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/1C9KicszFS.
For more information, please visit UABBHK 2025’s website: https://uabb2025.hkia.org.hk/en/ai-competition.
A Civic Rehearsal for AI Futures
UABBHK 2025 is not a showcase of new technologies — it is a civic rehearsal. It invites architects, the public, and students to reimagine what it means to design with machines, without losing the human voice. In this Biennale, the audience is not passive. They are co-authors of the urban narrative, performers in a shared story, and participants in shaping the ethics of emerging technologies.
For more information, please visit UABBHK 2025’s website: https://uabb2025.hkia.org.hk/en.
2025 Hong Kong & Shenzhen Bi-City Biennale of UrbanismArchitecture (Hong Kong)’s Disclaimer:
The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region provides funding support to the project only, and does not otherwise take part in the project. Any opinions, findings, conclusions or recommendations expressed in these materials/events (or by members of the project team) are those of the project organisers only and do not reflect the views of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, the CreateSmart Initiative Secretariat or the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee.
Hashtag: #UABBHK2025
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About the Hong Kong Institute of Architects Biennale Foundation
- To promote creativity and advance the understanding, appreciation and interest of architectural and design excellence
- To encourage cross-border and cross-disciplinary dialogue and collaboration between creative professionals from Hong Kong, Greater China region and overseas
- To support art, design, architectural and cultural education for students and youth, the community, and policy makers
- To create a favourable environment for study, research and experimentation of design, art and architectural works in an exhibition scale
- To energise and revitalize specific sites of interests by introduction of cultural and creative events
About the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency
The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) established in June 2024, formerly known as Create Hong Kong (CreateHK), is a dedicated office set up by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau to provide one-stop services and support to the cultural and creative industries with a mission to foster a conducive environment in Hong Kong to facilitate the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries.. Its strategic foci are nurturing talent and facilitating start-ups, exploring markets, promoting cross-sectoral and cross-genre collaboration, promoting the development of arts, culture and creative sectors as industries under the industry-oriented principle, and promoting Hong Kong as Asia’s creative capital and fostering a creative atmosphere in the community to implement Hong Kong’s positioning as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange under the National 14th Five-Year Plan.
Media OutReach
Natural Diamonds Take Center Stage on the Red Carpet at the Grammy Awards
Today’s biggest stars express individuality and confidence with natural diamonds
LOS ANGELES, US – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 February 2026 – At this year’s GRAMMY Awards, the Red Carpet sparkled with natural diamonds punctuating the looks of today’s most celebrated music artists.
Leading artists, performers and presenters showed up for music’s biggest night in diamond jewelry looks that spoke to creativity, individuality, glamour and power. From nominees Olivia Dean and Sabrina Carpenter to presenter Keltie Knight’s choices, natural diamonds expressed not only the timeless glamour and brilliance they’re known for, but their ability to amplify personal style. Natural diamonds were spotted in a range of tones from icy whites to deep whiskeys, and in settings from platinum to rose gold. Just as Hollywood stars are hitting the Red Carpet this year in Desert diamonds, the biggest new trend in natural diamonds, musical artists are experimenting with a bolder diamond palette, creating a more personality-driven red carpet.
Desert diamonds
Desert diamonds, ranging from warm whites to deep whiskeys, were spotted everywhere, including on presenter Keltie Knight, who opted for unique diamond and yellow gold hoops by RENNA, as well as a smattering of yellow gold, fancy-shaped diamond solitaire rings from the brand. Highlights also included power player J Balvin who chose a clean and classic tuxedo paired with a large cushion cut yellow diamond ring that added a nice balance to the traditionally masculine look.
Simple Drops
Simple drop earrings emerged as a quiet standout at the GRAMMYs, proving that restraint can be just as impactful as large statement pieces. Addison Rae and Madison Beer leaned into effortless glamour, choosing sleek diamond drops that framed the face with subtle movement and modern elegance. Billie Eilish brought her signature edge, using pared-back diamond drops to balance her bold black and white suiting. Kelsea Ballerini elevated the look in Sabyasachi, where refined diamond drops added softness and romance, while Reba McEntire turned to Martin Katz for timeless brilliance, opting for classic diamond drops that were sure to catch the eye.
Diamond Hoops for Men
Men are increasingly embracing minimalist yet impactful diamond hoop earrings as a refined accessory choice. Bad Bunny paired his sharp Schiaparelli tuxedo with a single diamond hoop earring, bringing a subtle but polished sparkle to his look that perfectly balanced his experimental sartorial vibe. Kaytranada’s red carpet presence and inclination for understated yet stylish accessories suggest that simple diamond hoops align naturally with his fashion-forward aesthetic. This trend points to a broader moment in men’s red carpet jewelry: pared-back diamond hoops that provide polished shine without overpowering the rest of the ensemble, signaling a move toward jewelry that feels personal, versatile, and modern.
Rings
Rings at the GRAMMYs reflected a dual trend of bold expression and refined delicacy, underscoring natural diamonds’ versatility. Sabrina Carpenter complimented her look in Chopard, opting for diamond rings that delivered impact without overpowering her look, while Sombr also made a striking impression with a diamond ring that was perfect high-jewelry shine to go with his existing sequined ensemble. In contrast, Olivia Dean showcased a more delicate approach in Cartier High Jewelry, layering elegant diamond rings that emphasized timeless sophistication perfectly echoing her Chanel gown. Miley Cyrus made perhaps the boldest ring statement of the night with several diamond rings stacked and worn over leather gloves.
Necklaces
Necklaces at the GRAMMYs showcased how natural diamonds can define both quiet refinement and bold presence on the red carpet. On the delicate end of the spectrum, Charlotte Lawrence in Messika exemplified understated luxury with a finely crafted diamond necklace that traced the neckline proving that less is more. In contrast, Hailey and Justin Bieber turned heads with matching Lorraine Schwartz statement diamond neck pieces that anchored their looks. Tate McRae also grabbed attention with a 50 carat Lorraine Schwartz necklace, while Pharrell Williams elevated his ensemble with a striking diamond necklace that blended artistry and scale. Together, these moments underscored a versatile necklace trend: from minimalist diamonds that whispered elegance to oversized, expressive pieces that commanded attention. Natural diamonds continue to serve as dynamic anchors in personal style storytelling.
Hashtag: #ADiamondisForever #NaturalDiamonds #diamonds #GRAMMYS
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The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About De Beers Group
Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with diamond mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers London and Forevermark, and other pioneering solutions such as diamond sourcing and traceability initiatives Tracr and GemFair. De Beers Group also provides leading services and technology to the diamond industry in the form of education and laboratory services and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology services.
De Beers Group is committed to ‘
Building Forever,’ a holistic and integrated approach to sustainability that underpins our efforts to create meaningful impact for the people and places where our diamonds are
discovered. Building Forever focuses on three key areas where, through collaborations and partnerships around the globe, we have an enhanced ability to drive positive impact; Livelihoods, Climate and Nature. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo American plc group. For further information, visit
www.debeersgroup.com.
Media OutReach
ICONSIAM Drives Its Destination Marketing Strategy to Elevate Bangkok as a Global Chinese New Year Destination
Featuring Renowned Actor Wang Zhuo Cheng and T-Pop Sensation BUS to Boost Thai–Chinese Tourism Economy
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 5 February 2026 – ICONSIAM, the global landmark on the banks of the Chao Phraya River, announces a major collaboration with leading public and private partners—including the Ministry of Culture (Thailand), the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), KASIKORNBANK, CP AXTRA “Makro – Lotus”, Alipay +, and Tiger Balm—to host a world-class Chinese New Year celebration. Reinforcing its Destination Marketing strategy, ICONSIAM aims to position itself as one of the world’s premier Chinese New Year destinations through festivities that blend Thailand’s cultural heritage with revered Chinese traditions. A key highlight is ICONSIAM’s spiritually significant location, known as the “Dragon’s Belly,” a powerful symbol of prosperity along the most beautiful curve of the Chao Phraya River. To honor the Year of the Horse, a sacred statue of Guan Yu—the deity of honesty, loyalty, and righteousness, will be enshrined. The celebration will feature world-class entertainment led by renowned Chinese actor Wang Zhuo Cheng and T-Pop Sensation BUS, alongside dragon and lion dances, festive street food, shopping, and cultural experiences. ICONSIAM is confident that foot traffic and spending within the destination will grow by more than 10%, helping to stimulate overall economic activity and tourism in the first quarter. The event will take place from 12–17 February 2026 at River Park, ICONSIAM.
Mrs. Suma Wongphan, Executive Vice President of ICONSIAM Co., Ltd. said “This event reaffirms ICONSIAM’s role as a Global Experiential Destination that captivates visitors worldwide. Our ambition is not only to elevate Thailand’s tourism experience, but also to celebrate the deep-rooted ties between Thailand and China. We have curated a landmark festival that seamlessly blends traditional beliefs with contemporary artistry, creating a special experience to attract global audiences to witness the most magnificent Chinese New Year celebration along the Chao Phraya River. Alongside the cultural aspects, ICONSIAM enhances the festive experience through its ‘Lucky Angpao Mega Campaign’, offering over 8,300 prizes, with expectations of driving more than 10% growth in visitor traffic and 10% increase in consumer spending during the campaign period.”
The 2026 Chinese New Year season is expected to generate significant economic impact across Thailand’s tourism sector, aligning closely with the Tourism Authority of Thailand’s strategy in setting the target of attracting 6.7 million Chinese visitors under ongoing visa-free measures. ICONSIAM is confident that the scale and creativity of this celebration will serve as a powerful catalyst in advancing Thailand’s tourism and retail sectors to global prominence.
The ICONSIAM A Prosperous Chinese New Year 2026 key highlights include:
- Landmark of Blessing: Visitors are invited to experience profound spiritual power at The Auspicious Guan Yu Shrine, featuring the enshrinement of five sacred manifestations of Guan Yu, brought directly from the People’s Republic of China for the first time in Thailand. Enhancing the experience is the Interactive Blessing Pavilion, showcasing the “Eight Auspicious Horses” through cutting-edge interactive technology that breathes new life into ancient mythology.
- Prosperous Celebration: The riverside comes alive with a world-class cultural spectacle led by the appearance of globally renowned Chinese actor Wang Zhuo Cheng, who joins the grand procession of the legendary ‘Long Ma’ (Dragon Horse), a mythical creature stretching over 32 metres in length, symbolising success and progress. The celebration is further energised by a breathtaking performance of the dragon-horse dance by Thailand’s leading T-POP sensation BUS (Because of You I Shine), creating a powerful fusion of tradition and contemporary pop culture.
- The Miracle of Fountain: At ICONSIAM’s iconic river curve — regarded as the most beautiful bend of the Chao Phraya, visitors will witness the mesmerising “Chao Phraya River Dragon Multimedia Water Feature,” the longest of its kind in Southeast Asia, featuring a choreographed spectacle of dancing fountains, light, and sound.
More than a celebration, ICONSIAM A PROSPEROUS CHINESE NEW YEAR 2026 is a cultural phenomenon that positions Bangkok as one of the world’s most compelling festive destinations. Be part of this extraordinary celebration from February 12–17, 2026, at River Park, ICONSIAM. Discover upcoming events and the latest updates via ICONSIAM’s Facebook at www.facebook.com/ICONSIAM or call 1338 for more information.
Hashtag: #ICONSIAMCNY2026 #ICONSIAMaProsperousChineseNewYear2026 #ICONSIAM
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Media OutReach
DFI Retail Group to Announce 2025 Full Year Financial Results and Host Analyst Presentation Live Webcast
Time: 09:30-10:30 am (Hong Kong Time)
Hashtag: #DFIRetailGroup #Mannings #Guardian #7-Eleven #Wellcome #MarketPlace #IKEA #yuu
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About DFI Retail Group
DFI Retail Group (the ‘Group’) is a leading Asian retailer, driven by its purpose to “Sustainably Serve Asia for Generations with Everyday Moments”.
At 1 December 2025, the Group and its associates operated over 7,400 outlets, and employed over 81,000 people across 12 markets.
The Group is dedicated to delivering quality, value and service to Asian consumers through a compelling retail experience, supported by an extensive store network and highly efficient supply chains.
The Group and its associates, operates a portfolio of well-known brands across five key divisions: health and beauty, convenience, food, home furnishings and restaurants.
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