HARTSVILLE, S.C., Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Sonoco Products Company ("Sonoco" or the "Company") (NYSE: SON), a global leader in high-value metal and paper consumer and industrial packaging, today announced Francesco Giannolo's appointment to Vice President and General Manager of Sonoco Consumer Packaging, EMEA. He reports directly to Ernest Haynes, president of Sonoco's Global Consumer Packaging segment.

Giannolo joined Sonoco in 2019 and prior to this new appointment was Vice President of Commercial for Sonoco's Consumer Packaging EMEA/APAC business. In 2022, Giannolo was appointed Vice President and General Manager of Sonoco's Rigid Paper Containers business in EMEA and held other sales leadership roles.

"As we align our global Consumer Packaging businesses, it is critical that we have a strong, experienced leader in the EMEA region. Francesco is that leader," said Ernest Haynes, president of Sonoco Global Consumer Packaging. "We look forward to even greater focus on innovation, productivity and customer service."

A native of Naples, Italy, Giannolo has worked in the packaging industry for 23 years, beginning his career at Crown Packaging in 2004 where he was named Plant Manager. He then worked with Amcor as Plant General Manager in its medical division before joining its commercial excellence team where he served as Senior Director of Commercial Excellence for EMEA. Giannolo holds a Master of Science in Environmental and Land Planning Engineering from the Federico II University of Naples.

Earlier this month, Sonoco aligned its Global Consumer Packaging businesses under a single integrated leadership structure, led by Haynes. As President of Sonoco's Global Consumer Packaging segment, Haynes is responsible for Sonoco's largest global business with roughly $5.2 billion in annual sales, 98 operations in 25 countries and 11,250 employees serving some of the best-known consumer brands around the world.

About Sonoco

Founded in 1899, Sonoco (NYSE: SON) is a global leader in value-added, sustainable metal and paper consumer and industrial packaging. A Fortune 500 company, Sonoco generated net sales of $7.5 billion from continuing operations in 2025 and has approximately 22,000 employees working in 263 operations in 37 countries, serving some of the world's best-known brands. Guided by our purpose of Better Packaging. Better Life., we strive to foster a culture of innovation, collaboration and excellence to provide solutions that better serve all our stakeholders and support a more sustainable future.

Sonoco was proudly named one of the World's Most Admired Companies by Fortune in 2026 as well as one of America's Most Admired and Responsible Companies by Fortune and Newsweek. In 2025, the Company was included on USA TODAY's list of America's Climate Leaders. For more information on the Company, visit our website at www.sonoco.com.

Contact: Roger Schrum

843-339-6018

roger.schrum@sonoco.com

   

TAIPEI, TAIWAN - Media OutReach Newswire - 19 August 2026 - Asian Plastics & Rubber Industry Online Exhibition 2026 (AsianPLAS 2026) officially opens on August 19, launching an extended online exhibition focused on the global plastics and rubber industry.

Running through December 31, 2026, the exhibition connects international buyers with suppliers across a broad range of plastics and rubber materials, machinery, products, and related industrial applications.

Organized jointly by AsianNet and the B2B marketplace TradeAsia, AsianPLAS 2026 provides participating companies with extended international exposure while enabling buyers to discover products, review supplier information, and submit sourcing inquiries online. Through TradeAsia's B2B platform and digital matchmaking resources, the exhibition facilitates connections between global buyers and plastics and rubber suppliers, creating additional opportunities for international sourcing and cross-border business cooperation.

Expanding International Sourcing Opportunities Through Global Industry Exposure

To increase global visibility and sourcing opportunities, AsianPLAS 2026 aligns its exhibition period with several major international plastics and rubber industry events, including Expo Plast Peru, Taipei International Plastics and Rubber Industry Show, West Africa Plastprintpack, Fakuma, PLAST IMAGEN MEXICO, and IPF Japan. By running alongside major international industry exhibitions, AsianPLAS 2026 provides additional opportunities for participating suppliers to reach international buyers and expand their exposure across global markets.

Through AsianPLAS 2026, buyers can review supplier information, browse product catalogs, and directly contact exhibitors for sourcing inquiries. The platform gives international buyers convenient access to plastics and rubber manufacturers and suppliers across a wide range of materials, machinery, products, and related industry applications, while helping participating companies strengthen their international visibility and explore new business opportunities.

Comprehensive Product Categories and Industry Suppliers Across the Plastics & Rubber Sector

The exhibition brings together suppliers and manufacturers from across Asia's plastics and rubber industry. International buyers can explore products and sourcing opportunities presented by companies including ELASTIN INTERNATIONAL, YI CHI HSIUNG, SHANG-YUH MACHINE, LIO CHENG KUNG, UNILONGENTERPRISECO and KAIPHONE TECHNOLOGY.

These exhibitors represent a diverse range of products and applications across the plastics and rubber supply chain, including plastic and rubber materials, processing machinery, plastic and rubber products, packaging and containers, polymers and resins, adhesives and sealants, coatings, chemical additives, and related industrial equipment.

Supporting Global B2B Trade Through Digital Sourcing Solutions

Powered by TradeAsia's B2B platform, AsianPLAS 2026 provides exhibitors with online product showcases, supplier profiles, and digital e-catalogs designed to increase international exposure and sourcing opportunities.

International buyers can browse products and communicate with suppliers online regardless of location or time zone, making it easier to compare products, review supplier capabilities, and submit inquiries efficiently. The exhibition's extended online format also enables participating companies to maintain continuous visibility throughout the more than four-month exhibition period.

By integrating online sourcing, digital promotion, and buyer-supplier matchmaking services, AsianPLAS 2026 creates an efficient digital environment for global B2B trade and international procurement across the plastics and rubber industry.

Start Sourcing Now

Explore suppliers, discover products, and connect directly with exhibitors through the official AsianPLAS 2026 online exhibition platform:

https://www.etradeasia.com/online-show/47/Asian-Plastics-Rubber-Industry-Online-Exhibition-2026.html

About TradeAsia

TradeAsia, available at www.e-tradeasia.com, is a B2B digital marketplace connecting international buyers with suppliers across global markets. The platform brings together a broad network of buyers and suppliers with an extensive product database, helping procurement professionals discover products, identify potential suppliers, and initiate business inquiries online.

In addition to its digital platform, TradeAsia works with international trade organizations and industry exhibition organizers to connect online marketing resources with global industry events. By combining digital product exposure, international buyer reach, and industry marketing resources, TradeAsia helps suppliers strengthen their international visibility and create new opportunities for cross-border business development.

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

Hashtags: #TradeAsia

*allnex is the global market and technology leader for Sag Control Agent (SCA) resin, a unique technology enabling excellent appearance of Automotive OEM coatings.

*Today allnex announced to build its first SCA production facility in APAC, the largest global Automotive market.

*This investment will significantly improve regional supply resilience, reduce lead times, and enhance service for our customers based in the APAC region

*And it will support faster adaptation of the next-generation of SCA's including high-solid, low-bake, and sustainable "green SCA" solutions.

FRANKFURT, GERMANY - Media OutReach Newswire - 18 August 2026 - allnex, a leading global manufacturer and solution provider of coating resins and additives, today announced plans to expand its manufacturing footprint in Asia-Pacific with a strategic investment in Sag Control Agent (SCA) capacity at its Rayong site in Thailand.

Scheduled to begin operations in January 2028, this new SCA capacity investment, signifies allnex's commitment to support its customers in the world's fastest-growing automotive coatings markets.

By bringing SCA production into the APAC region, and importantly closer to customers, allnex will strengthen supply reliability, shorten lead times, and provide greater responsiveness to evolving market needs.

SCAs are a unique and cornerstone technology of allnex's Automotive OEM product portfolio and they define its market leadership position in this application. allnex SCA resins have superior sag control functionality, enabling exceptional appearance in premium high-gloss clearcoats. These specialty resins ensure that coating manufacturers are able to meet the ever increasing demands of car producers for performance, efficiency, and sustainability.

Since allnex invented SCA resins four decades ago, all allnex SCA production was concentrated in its Bergen op Zoom facility in The Netherlands. In the last few years, APAC has become the largest SCA market globally with strong future growth projections driven by increased car production and requirements for better appearance. By making this investment in APAC, allnex will not only provide customers with proximity of supply and greater assurance, it will also ensure to have enough capacity available in time, to meet future growth.

"This strategic capacity investment for a unique technology, is driven by our commitment to our customers and their growth ambitions in Asia-Pacific. By localizing SCA production in Thailand, we are responding directly to customer needs for greater supply security, shorter lead times, and faster access to innovation. The new facility will strengthen our ability and agility to support both global and regional customers in APAC and allows us to meet future market demand." said Ruben Mannien, Senior Executive Vice President APAC.

The Rayong site was selected following a comprehensive evaluation of multiple locations across the region. The site offers existing infrastructure, strong technical capabilities, and strategic proximity to key automotive manufacturing hubs, including China, India, Korea, and Southeast Asia.

The investment will include dedicated reactors for the production of SCA resins for plastic automotive parts and metal car bodies.

Beyond improving supply resilience, the new facility will support allnex's latest SCA innovations designed for next-generation clearcoat systems, including high-solid, low-bake, and more sustainable coating technologies. These solutions help customers improve productivity, reduce energy consumption, and differentiate themselves in an increasingly competitive market.

Construction is expected to be completed by the end of 2027, ensuring production readiness ahead of anticipated market growth.

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

Hashtags: #allnex

*This summer, Desperados and acclaimed designer Paolina Russo have created the Freeze-Fit: a limited-edition festival jacket cooled by Desperados Freeze

*Combining thermochromic fabrics, integrated cooling technology and a bold design, the jacket helps festival-goers forget the forecast and focus on letting loose

*Created to solve the classic festival dilemma of whether to bring a jacket or not, the Freeze-Fit is designed to help festival-goers forget the forecast and let loose whatever the weather, with over half (53%) globally having had their outfit plans ruined by unpredictable conditions

*The launch is the latest innovation from Desperados, which will be showing up at elrow festivals throughout the summer

AMSTERDAM, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- This summer, Desperados has teamed up with acclaimed LVMH Prize-nominated designer Paolina Russo to create the ultimate festival jacket: the Freeze-Fit: a limited-edition festival jacket powered by Desperados Freeze, the brand's latest liquid innovation that transforms Desperados into an ice-cold slush.

Combining experimental fashion, integrated cooling technology and a bold design, the Freeze-Fit is designed to help festival-goers forget the forecast and focus on letting loose.

Using the same frozen liquid innovation behind Desperados Freeze, wearers simply insert the frozen drink into a dedicated pouch inside the jacket. Chilled liquid circulates through an insulated tube system integrated into the garment, while dual hidden fans built into the back maximise airflow. A discreet drinking straw built into the collar even allows festival-goers to sip their frozen Desperados hands-free without ever stepping away from the dancefloor

The result is a wearable cooling system disguised as a statement festival jacket.

And the inspiration came from a dilemma every festival-goer knows all too well: do you bring a jacket or not?

Wear one and you're carrying it around all day in the heat. Leave it at home and you're wishing you hadn't as soon as the temperature drops. For a generation used to checking the weather app before heading out, the forecast has become an unavoidable part of festival planning. Yet festivals are supposed to be about living in the moment, not second-guessing what to wear.

So Desperados decided to create a jacket designed to take the forecast out of the equation.

With research revealing that more than half (53%) of festival-goers saying they have had a festival outfit ruined by unpredictable weather, while more than a quarter (26%) have left a festival early because of it. Despite attending festivals to have fun and let loose, over a third (35%) say weather-related outfit concerns stop them from making the most of the experience.

For many, the decision starts before they've even left home: bring a jacket and risk overheating, or leave it behind and risk regretting it later. The Freeze-Fit is designed to eliminate that compromise, helping festival-goers stay focused on the moment rather than the forecast.

Designed by Paolina Russo, the Freeze-Fit pairs innovative functionality with the designer's signature use of bold colour, texture and experimentation. Crafted using thermochromic materials, the jacket changes appearance as temperatures shift, creating a dynamic visual effect that evolves throughout the day and night. As the temperature changes, so does the design.

Beyond the performance features, the Freeze-Fit also tackles the festival frustration of standing out from the crowd. Over half (54%) admit that they see a lot of the same clothes and styles at festivals, and nearly half of Gen Z (45%) find it hard to find a unique item for the occasion. This limited-edition jacket offers a distinctive addition to any festival wardrobe that can be worn for years to come.

The Freeze-Fit celebrates the launch of Desperados Freeze, the latest innovation to emerge from Desperados. The brand explores where beer and culture collide to create unexpected ideas, bold collaborations and playful innovations designed to help people let loose their way.

A limited number of jackets will be made available through a giveaway, with further details to be announced.

Ligia Patrocinio, Global Head of Desperados said, "Every festival starts with the same question: do I bring a jacket or not? We loved the idea of taking that familiar dilemma and solving it in a completely unexpected Desperados way. The Freeze-Fit is designed to help people forget the forecast, stay cool when the energy rises and focus on what festivals are really about, letting loose with friends. That's exactly the kind of experimentation Deseperados is known for."

Paolina Russo and Lucile Guilmard, the co-founders of Paolina Russo, said, "With shared values of experimentation, colour and vibrancy, there was no question about collaborating with Desperados. Our work has always been rooted in connection, shared memories and self-expression, which resonates with the Desperados ethos of living freely and creating memories with friends. The Freeze-Fit brings this to life through bold colours and an innovative blend of textiles and technology."

Appearing at elrow festivals globally, Desperados is testing and launching new ideas like the Freeze-Fit and the Desperados Freeze drink. All innovations are designed to reimagine nights out for a new era of socialising to help consumers let loose their way, from festivals to late-night dancefloors.

Images are available HERE.

Media contact: desperados@wearetheromans.com

Expanded facility increases engineering, production and customer support capacity for European and global allied forces

OSLO, Norway, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Spectra Defense Technologies Norway (Spectra) today announced the opening of its larger, significantly upgraded office and production facility in Sk?yen, further expanding the company's ability to support the evolving mission needs of European and allied forces operating across the globe.

The new facility provides the Spectra Norway team with the additional space and enhanced engineering, production and system integration infrastructure needed to support growing customer demand for current and next-generation command, control, computers, communications, cyber, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (C5ISR) capabilities. The investment reflects the company's continued growth in Europe and its long-term commitment to strengthening trusted, in-region capabilities.

Located in one of Oslo's premier innovation districts, the new Sk?yen facility spans approximately 2,300 m? (25,000 sq ft) and houses advanced production, test, engineering and research and development capabilities, along with dedicated project collaboration areas and modern office facilities.

Spectra Norway has established itself as a trusted provider of high-performance computing and data recording solutions for C5ISR, air defense and autonomous platforms. In response to strong and sustained customer demand, the company has invested in this state-of-the-art facility, more than doubling its engineering and manufacturing capacity. The expansion positions Spectra Norway for continued growth and reinforces its commitment to delivering innovative, mission-critical technologies to defense and security customers worldwide.

"The investment in our new Oslo facility strengthens our ability to meet evolving customer demands and deliver the next-generation solutions European and allied forces need to maintain an information advantage across all domains," said Erlend M?yland, CEO of Spectra Norway. "The new facility gives our team greater capacity to provide responsive engineering and production while continuing to invest in the trusted solutions and expertise that has made Oslo central to Spectra's European operations."

Norway serves as a central hub within Spectra's global engineering and production footprint, with nearly two decades of experience developing and delivering trusted, mission-proven capabilities to NATO members and allied forces operating across the globe. This includes ongoing work with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace on the Norwegian Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) program, where Spectra Norway's Realtime Computer XSR RTC Version 2 is being integrated under a multi-million-dollar production award announced in 2025.

The expansion to the new facility comes as NATO and global allied forces accelerate the shift toward multi-domain operations and data-centric command and control. This shift is increasing demand for enhanced, secure and interoperable technologies that connect assets and sensors across domains, decrease the cognitive load for end users and significantly enhance mission effectiveness in operational environments.

At the center of Spectra Norway's operation is the XSR product line, including the newly released XSR Spire rugged mission computer, as well as the newly launched G2 Ultra Rugged microNAS. Designed, developed and manufactured in Norway, these next-generation edge capabilities support unmanned systems and other distributed platforms by helping forces move and process information faster, protect sensitive data, strengthen situational awareness and enhance decision-making capabilities at the tactical edge.

XSR Spire provides high-performance edge computing in a compact, rugged form factor for unmanned systems, sensor payloads and other space-constrained platforms. The G2 Ultra Rugged microNAS provides high-bandwidth data capture and storage in an ultra-compact system designed for autonomous platforms, distributed sensors and other demanding applications.

Spectra will welcome customers, partners and key stakeholders to the official opening of the Sk?yen facility on Aug. 19 at 1:00 p.m. local time. Guests will tour the new offices and production areas, meet members of the Spectra Norway team and learn more about the company's growth plans and future capabilities.

About Spectra Defense Technologies

Spectra Defense Technologies is a global provider of leading C5ISR solutions for aerospace and defense customers. With over 35 years of proven performance and differentiated expertise, we deliver fully integrated mission systems, data recorders, secure networking, edge computing, robust data-at-rest encryption and advanced visualization that capture, process, and display mission-critical data across air, land, sea, and space. Backed by engineering, sales, and production teams in North America and Europe, Spectra combines global reach with agile innovation to meet evolving end-user needs with speed and precision. Guided by a culture of innovation and deep customer partnership, we build enduring trust through open-architecture designs, technical excellence, and resilient systems designed to meet today's mission needs and anticipate tomorrow's demands for the U.S., NATO, European defense organizations, and allied partners worldwide. Visit spectradefense.tech to learn more.

Contact:

Evangela Rodgers

Spectra Defense Technologies

evangela.rodgers@spectradefense.tech

Marking a new approach to innovation in medical robotics, the new centre will bring advances from a leading surgical robotics research group to patients more quickly

Smith+Nephew (LSE:SN, NYSE:SNN), the global medical technology company, and Imperial College London have launched a five-year partnership to deliver breakthrough research and innovation for robotic surgery for musculoskeletal conditions.

The first-in-kind partnership will bring together a globally renowned academic laboratory with engineers from Smith+Nephew to accelerate the translation of academic breakthroughs in fields such as computer vision and sensing into advanced techniques in robotic surgery.

The techniques will be designed to make robotic surgery less invasive and more intuitive and usable by more than just the specialist centres, leading to better outcomes for patients.

The centre's launch marks both the first time that UK multinational Smith+Nephew has founded a centre of this kind within a university, and Imperial's first industry centre in the field of medical technology. 

Departing from traditional models of innovation in medical technology, which is usually carried out by companies or licensed from universities, Smith+Nephew's experts will work directly with university researchers to co-develop new solutions and will use its scale to bring the cutting-edge techniques to adoption more rapidly than would otherwise be possible.

The new centre will be led Professor Ferdinando Rodriguez y Baena in Imperial's Department of Mechanical Engineering, co-director of the Hamlyn Centre, whose group works on robotics for orthopaedic surgery. At full capacity, the centre will support a senior postdoctoral researcher and up to seven fully-funded PhD studentships, recruited progressively across the five-year programme, working with Smith+Nephew engineers and clinicians in the same space.

The new university technology centre will be situated within Imperial's Hamlyn Centre, part of the Institute of Global Health Innovation and a driver of research in robotic surgery.

Research will focus on making robotic surgery less invasive and available beyond specialist centres. Research topics include markerless registration and tracking, which removes the pins and rigid markers that current systems bolt to bone, meaning fewer incisions and less hardware for the patient, and better consistency for the surgeon. Another topic is computer vision that reads and adapts to a patient's anatomy in real time.

Vasant Padmanabhan, President of Research & Development, ENT and Emerging Markets at Smith+Nephew, said, "In Smith+Nephew's 170th year, we are proud to partner with a university that embodies a similar heritage in UK medical innovation. By embedding industry experts within one of the world's leading engineering schools, this centre has the potential to move research into operating theatres at pace, transforming patient outcomes and enhancing the surgical experience."

Professor Ferdinando Rodriguez y Baena from Imperial College London said: "Translational research on health devices has historically had two main routes to patients: licensing or spinout companies. This centre establishes a third: academic engineers working hand-in-hand to help develop products with a major industry partner. There is no doubt that the innovations discovered within this centre will hold major impact for the medical technology industry as a whole and its patients."

Professor Mary Ryan, Vice-Provost (Research and Enterprise) at Imperial College London, said, "Working directly with Smith+Nephew, will allow us to bring advanced innovations rapidly to the clinic, drawing on Imperial's world-leading academic expertise and the company's resources and sectoral knowledge. We look forward to further expanding our large-scale partnerships with industry in this space and bringing innovations in medical technology to patients more quickly."

Media Enquiries

David Silverman,PhD                     +44 (0)7985 230 707

Imperial College London                d.silverman@imperial.ac.uk

Charles Reynolds                           +44 1923 477312

Smith+Nephew                              charles.reynolds@smith-nephew.com

Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

QIONGHAI, CHINA - Media OutReach Newswire - 18 August 2026 - On the evening of August 16, 2026, the 7th Hainan Sports Games opened at the Qionghai Culture and Sports Center. Feng Fei, Secretary of the CPC Hainan Provincial Committee, declared the Games open, and Liu Xiaoming, Deputy Secretary of the CPC Hainan Provincial Committee and Governor of Hainan Province, delivered the opening address.

This marks the first comprehensive sporting event held in Hainan since the island-wide special customs operations of the Hainan Free Trade Port of China took effect.

The opening ceremony, themed "This Sea Embraces All," featured a cultural performance structured around the Wanquan River as its narrative thread. Dynamic ground projection technology brought the river "into" the stadium, showcasing Hainan's development trajectory, from its ecological splendor to its ever-expanding openness.

The performance comprised chapters including "Wanquan River in Pictures," "Hainan Flowers Facing the Sun," "Passion in Motion," "Hainan Acceleration," and "Under the Same Expanse of Blue," integrating Hainan's revolutionary heritage, mass participation in sports, the Free Trade Port's "Five-Pronged Development" strategy, and the spirit of openness embodied by Boao. Chief Director Wu Wanting said she hoped the imagery of the Wanquan River would convey a sense of "the sea and sky becoming one, and hearts beating as one."

One of the highlights of this year's Provincial Games is extensive public participation. Fourteen community contingents and more than 10,000 residents voluntarily signed up for the pre-opening ceremony group singing activities. More than 700 performers in the warm-up program came from 21 community groups, ranging in age from 6 to 72, truly embodying the spirit of "performed by the people, watched by the people, and enjoyed by the people."

More than 4,200 athletes from 18 delegations across the province are competing in 18 sports comprising 21 disciplines. As home to the permanent home of the Boao Forum for Asia (BFA) and the Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone, Qionghai is using the Provincial Games as a showcase for the vitality and openness of a "New Qionghai Powered by the Free Trade Port." The Games will continue until August 26.

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

Hashtags: #CultureandTourismofGuizhouProvince #Qionghai

Award recognizes Syncron's  measurable gains in support speed, quality, customer satisfaction, and operational performance

STOCKHOLM, Aug. 18, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Syncron today announced it has won a Bronze Stevie Award for Customer Service Department of the Year in The 23rd Annual International Business Awards (IBAs). 

The award recognizes Syncron's 2025 support transformation, which reduced support ticket backlog by 46 percent while improving responsiveness, service quality, and customer satisfaction.

The winning nomination, "Eliminating Backlog While Delivering Faster, Higher-Quality Support," highlighted the actions Syncron implemented throughout 2025 to further enhance an already strong customer experience by improving ticket prioritization, strengthening customer communication, and maintaining quality while increasing support speed.

Judges praised the submission for its clear, results-driven approach. One judge pointed to the reduction in backlog, along with a 95.33 percent ticket satisfaction score, and SLA attainment above 98% as evidence of a support organization that is "not only efficient but consistently reliable." Another judge commended the team for keeping the after-sales journey "simple and effortless," noting that Syncron's success "is a strong reminder that while technology can enable better service, genuine care for customers should always come first."

Syncron's nomination highlighted a set of 2025 support initiatives designed to improve responsiveness without compromising quality. These included more proactive ticket management, increased direct customer interaction, structured quality audits, targeted support training, and new Technical Account Management and Resolution Management teams to strengthen adoption, product health, and ticket prioritization.

"This recognition belongs to our entire support organization," said Osama Solieman, EVP of Customer Excellence at Syncron. "The team, led by our amazing support leaders, set out to solve a real challenge without ever losing sight of what matters most: the customer on the other end of every ticket. This award reflects their genuine commitment to delivering a better after-sales experience."

The International Business Awards are the world's premier business awards program. All individuals and organizations worldwide ? public and private, for-profit and non-profit, large and small - are eligible to submit nominations. The 2026 IBAs received more than 3,400 entries from organizations in 82 nations and territories.

Stevie? Award nominations were evaluated by more than 200 business professionals worldwide serving as judges on 9 specialized committees. Stevie Award winners were determined based on judges' average scores during the independent judging process in June and July.

"The 2026 International Business Awards winners represent the very best in business achievement from organizations of all sizes and across virtually every industry," said Stevie Awards President Maggie Miller. "This year's winners have demonstrated exceptional innovation, leadership, resilience, and results in a highly competitive global field. We congratulate every Stevie Award winner and look forward to celebrating their achievements together in Paris on October 28."

Details about The International Business Awards and the lists of Stevie Award winners are available at  http://IBA.Stevieawards.com

About Syncron  

Syncron is the aftermarket growth platform for the world's leading manufacturers and distributors. Trusted by customers across more than 80 countries, Syncron offers connected solutions across parts and service pricing, service supply chain management, and warranty management. Global heavy equipment and automotive brands use Syncron to protect revenue, grow margins, and strengthen customer relationships across the asset lifecycle. For more, visit www.syncron.com.

About the Stevie? Awards 

Founded in 2002, the Stevie Awards are widely recognized as the world's premier business awards programs, honoring outstanding achievements in the workplace worldwide. The name "Stevie" is derived from the Greek name Stephanos, meaning "crowned." Learn more at www.StevieAwards.com.

Contact: 

KC Crabtree 

Syncron Public Relations 

+1 206.949.2551 

Karen.crabtree@syncron.com

Driving the Thai Economy and Charting New Strategic Pathways for the Future of ASEAN

BANGKOK, THAILAND - Media OutReach Newswire - 18 August 2026 - The Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry, and Banking (JSCCIB), comprising the Thai Bankers' Association, the Board of Trade of Thailand, and the Federation of Thai Industries, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, the Bank of Thailand, the National Economic and Social Development Council (NESDC), and the World Bank, has announced its readiness to convene a high-level leadership conference, 'The Bangkok Business Summit 2026,' under the theme 'Reinvent Thailand, Resilient ASEAN.'

To be held at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), the summit will showcase the vision of public-private sector collaboration aimed at restructuring Thailand's economy. This event serves as a milestone paving the way toward the IMF-World Bank Group Annual Meetings 2026, which Thailand will proudly host in Bangkok in October 2026, as well as Thailand's upcoming ASEAN Chairmanship in 2028.

A key highlight of The Bangkok Business Summit 2026 includes a keynote address entitled 'Thailand's Offer to the World' by Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, Prime Minister of Thailand. The address will declare Thailand's readiness as a global investment hub, shifting the nation from cost-based competition to enhancing capabilities, innovation, and digital infrastructure.

Furthermore, Dr. Ekniti Nitithanprapas, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, will deliver a policy address on 'Unlocking the Next Growth Engines for Thailand & ASEAN,' revealing policy reform steps designed to unlock private sector investment and drive the country's new economic engines. Professor Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, will address positioning Thailand as a regional investment platform for high-tech industries.

Mr. Payong Srivanich, Chairman of the Joint Standing Committee on Commerce, Industry, and Banking (JSCCIB), stated that this event aims to answer a critical question: How can Thailand transform global shifts and its central location in ASEAN into new opportunities for investment, job creation, and sustainable growth?

"The Bangkok Business Summit 2026 is not merely a platform for exchanging perspectives, but a venue where Thailand presents its concrete strengths, opportunities, and development directions to the global business community-bridging the government's vision, recommendations from international organizations, and the practical expertise of the private sector," Mr. Payong stated."Thailand's challenge today is not just growth, but building competitive growth in a rapidly changing world. We need a platform for collaborative efforts to 'Reinvent Thailand' by creating new economic engines and elevating our competitiveness so Thailand can capture new opportunities and become an integral part of a 'Resilient ASEAN' capable of adapting to global dynamics."

Key Highlights & Session Overview

*Special Keynote: Mr. Vitai Ratanakorn, Governor of the Bank of Thailand, will present on 'Thailand's New Horizons: From Ambition to Delivery.'

*Global Insights Panel: Featuring in-depth discussions with Mr. Carlos Felipe Jaramillo, World Bank Vice President for East Asia and Pacific, Mr. Sarvesh Suri, Regional Vice President for Asia and Pacific, The International Finance Corporation (IFC), and Mr. John W.H. Denton, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) exchanging views on economic trends, investments, and business opportunities.

*Report Launch: Launch of the World Bank's latest report, 'Building Thailand's Future Today: The Investment and Growth Playbook.' The report proposes a roadmap for Thailand to achieve high-income country status through investment and reforms that create jobs, boost productivity, and lay the foundation for long-term growth, highlighting potential industries such as advanced manufacturing, sustainable & wellness tourism, digital services, agriculture & food, and the creative economy.

*Luncheon Discussion: Thai Beverage Public Company Limited will host a special session entitled 'Growth Reaches Communities: Sufficiency Economy Philosophy,' presenting the Sufficiency Economy Philosophy as a framework that creates balance, strength, and sustainability from local communities to the business sector and macroeconomy.

Afternoon Tracks

Track 1: Building Resilience (Infrastructure, Energy, and Digital Finance): Led by Mr. Piti Disyatat, Deputy Governor for Monetary Stability, Bank of Thailand, in building competitiveness and the ability to attract future industries to the country. The session will include discussions on the topics of 'Efficient Energy & Low-Carbon Infrastructure' and 'Policy Architecture and Low-Carbon Cities in Action' focusing on investing in key infrastructure that will drive the industrial transition to a low-carbon society, with leaders from various sectors, including the Ministry of Energy, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, PTT Public Company Limited, Gulf Energy Development Public Company Limited, Siam Cement Public Company Limited, Thai Airways Public Company Limited, and Google LLC and the topic of 'Building Thailand's Trusted Economy: Digital Public Infrastructure for Inclusive Growth,' focusing on digital public infrastructure in the financial sector for sustainable growth, and safe and inclusive digital finance, with senior executives from Bangkok Bank, Krungsri Bank, TMBThanachart Bank, and Ascend Money.

Track 2: New Horizons (Future Industries, Agri-Food, and Human-Centric Economy): Led by Professor Dr. Yodchanan Wongsawat, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation, focusing on developing high-potential talent within organizations and positioning Thailand as a regional investment platform for high-tech industries, semiconductors, AI infrastructure, and advanced R&D.

Additionally, the Bangkok Business Summit 2026 will feature a panel discussion titled 'The Future of Agrifood Business.' Under the concept of Elevating to a Regional Strategic Asset, leaders from top companies including Sea Value PCL and Olam Agri (Singapore) will share their perspectives on how Thailand's agrifood industry is evolving beyond its traditional role as the 'Kitchen of the World' to become a vital strategic asset for regional food security, and another discussion on 'The Future of the Human-Centric Economy,' integrating health, wellness, tourism, and the creative economy centered around people rather than isolated sectors. Panelists include Minor International, Bangkok Dusit Medical Services (BDMS), and Cerecin.

Closing & Actions

To conclude the summit, leaders from the three JSCCIB member organizations will summarize actionable proposals to transform insights into concrete practices. These encompass enhancing competitiveness, building investment ecosystems, and developing future industries. The event will culminate in the signing of a Letter of Intent for Cooperation on the Digital & AI Compact between Thailand's economic agencies and the World Bank.

Note: Speakers and the event program are subject to change without prior notice due to unforeseen circumstances. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.

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

Hashtags: #JSCCIB

Company will highlight medical silicone pump tubing, Para-tubing solutions for ophthalmic applications, and PTA/PTCA precision interventional tubing technologies to support medical device innovation

Wayne, PA, Aug. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TekniPlex Healthcare, a materials science-led partner for medical device manufacturers, will showcase its advanced materials, precision tubing, and component manufacturing capabilities at Medtec China 2026, taking place September 1-3, 2026, at the Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC). 

At Booth 2A112, Hall N2, visitors can explore how TekniPlex combines global materials and extrusion expertise with localized manufacturing to help OEMs optimize device performance, simplify supply chains, and scale production with confidence. 

As one of China's leading exhibitions for medical device design and manufacturing technologies, Medtec China brings together medical device manufacturers, innovators, and industry suppliers from across the healthcare value chain. At the show, TekniPlex Healthcare will demonstrate how its expertise in materials science, advanced processing technologies, and local manufacturing capabilities helps customers develop safer, more reliable, and higher-performance medical devices. 

With nearly 60 years of materials science expertise, global manufacturing capabilities, and strong local presence in China, TekniPlex Healthcare supports customers across medical devices, diagnostics, drug delivery, and healthcare packaging markets. 

At Medtec China 2026, TekniPlex Healthcare will highlight three key healthcare solutions: 

Medical Silicone Pump Tubing Solutions 

TekniPlex Healthcare will showcase high-performance medical silicone pump tubing solutions designed to support dependable pump life and consistent fluid delivery in medical pumping applications. Leveraging advanced silicone formulation development and processing technologies, TekniPlex provides medical silicone tubing with excellent elasticity, fatigue resistance, and long-term performance stability. These solutions meet the demanding requirements of peristaltic pumps, infusion pumps, and other medical fluid management devices for precise delivery and reliable operation. 

Through optimized material formulations and controlled manufacturing processes, TekniPlex helps customers achieve consistent flow control performance and supports the development and performance enhancement of medical devices. 

Para-tubing Solutions for Ophthalmic Surgical Applications 

To address the needs of ophthalmic minimally invasive surgical devices for precision fluid management and multi-row, compact multi-line tubing configurations, TekniPlex Healthcare will showcase its Para-tubing solutions for ophthalmic applications. 

Through advanced material formulation development, precision extrusion technologies, and structural design optimization, Para-tubing enables the precise arrangement and integration of multiple independent tubing lines within limited space. It supports demanding requirements for fluid and gas delivery, design flexibility, and consistent product quality in surgical devices. 

This solution is ideal for medical applications requiring high-precision, structurally diverse, and multifunctional tubing assemblies, including ophthalmic surgical devices. 

PTA/PTCA Precision Interventional Tubing Solutions 

TekniPlex Healthcare will highlight its PTA/PTCA precision interventional tubing solutions developed for minimally invasive medical device applications. Leveraging advanced precision extrusion, multi-layer extrusion, and micro-tubing manufacturing capabilities, TekniPlex China provides customized tubing solutions including single-layer and multi-layer balloon catheter tubing, three-layer inner tubing, and other precision medical tubing solutions. These solutions are designed to achieve low friction, bondability, dimensional control, and trackability requirements, while meeting the stringent requirements of interventional medical device development, including dimensional accuracy, concentricity, material performance, structural design flexibility, and manufacturing consistency. 

In addition to the product showcase, TekniPlex China will participate in the "Frontier Design and Translation Forum for Implantable and Interventional Medical Devices" during Medtec China 2026. On September 2, from 14:30 to 15:00, Phoebe Fan, Business Manager of TekniPlex China, will deliver a presentation titled "Localization of Vascular Interventional Tubing - TekniPlex's Reliable Solution" at Conference Room A, Hall N2. The presentation will share TekniPlex's capabilities and experience in localized manufacturing of precision vascular interventional tubing solutions. 

"Medtec China is an important platform for us to connect with medical device innovators, understand market needs, and showcase our technical capabilities," said Enrique Zhang, Commercial Director, TekniPlex China. "As China's medical device industry continues to move toward higher-value and more sophisticated applications, customers are increasingly looking for reliable partners with advanced materials expertise, precision manufacturing capabilities, and strong supply chain support. TekniPlex Healthcare is committed to working closely with customers to accelerate medical device innovation." 

Through its participation in Medtec China 2026, TekniPlex Healthcare will continue strengthening collaboration with medical device companies in China and providing integrated solutions from material selection and product design support through scalable regional manufacturing. 

###

About TekniPlex Healthcare

TekniPlex Healthcare utilizes advanced materials science expertise and technologies to develop and deliver critical solutions for medical and diagnostic devices, drug delivery systems and sterile barrier healthcare packaging applications.

With a global reach, the division's deep understanding of the greater pharmaceuticals and medical landscape helps it produce exemplary barrier properties for drugs and precision medical devices for interventional and therapeutic procedures.   

  

In the medical device niche, TekniPlex Healthcare embodies a comprehensive CDMO partner capable of servicing every stage of the product life cycle, from design and development through component manufacturing and final assembly. Throughout its broad purview, the division's ever-evolving portfolio helps meet demands for high-leverage medicines and mission-critical healthcare products that benefit care providers and patients. For more information visit www.tekni-plex.com/healthcare.   

Contact Info

Natalia Rivera

natalia.rivera@tekni-plex.com

+1 480-395-3130

Attachments

PTA PTCA Tubing Product Solution

TekniPlex MedTech China 2026 Booth

Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

*Nominating and Governance Chair Carol Burt to become Lead Director.

*Ron Taylor to retire after more than 21 years of service on Resmed's Board of Directors.

SAN DIEGO, Aug. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Resmed (NYSE: RMD, ASX: RMD), the leading health technology company focused on sleep, breathing and care delivered in the home, today announced that Carol Burt will become Lead Director on November 15, 2026. She will succeed Ron Taylor, Resmed's current Lead Director, who is not standing for reelection at the company's 2026 Annual Meeting of Stockholders on November 18, 2026, and will retire after more than 21 years of service to the company.

The Board has appointed Carol Burt to serve as Lead Director, effective November 15, 2026. Burt has served on Resmed's Board since 2013 and currently chairs the Nominating and Governance Committee. She is also a member of the Audit Committee and the Compliance, Privacy and Quality Committee. Burt's extensive board leadership and governance experience position her well to serve as Lead Director as the company continues to execute its long-term strategy.

"Carol is an outstanding leader with deep governance experience, broad healthcare industry knowledge and a strong commitment to Resmed's mission," said Mick Farrell, Resmed's Chairman and CEO. "I look forward to continuing to work closely with Carol and the entire Board as we advance our strategy and create long-term value for our shareholders."

Ron Taylor joined Resmed's Board of Directors in 2005 and has served in numerous leadership roles, including as Lead Director since 2013. During his tenure, Ron helped guide the company's governance, strategy and long-term growth while providing thoughtful leadership and independent oversight during a period of significant growth and transformation.

"Ron has made extraordinary contributions to Resmed over the past two decades," said Farrell. "His integrity, sound judgment and unwavering commitment to our patients, employees and shareholders have helped shape Resmed. On behalf of the Board and all Resmedians, I thank Ron for his outstanding service and wish him and his family all the very best."

About Resmed

Resmed (NYSE: RMD, ASX: RMD) creates life-changing health technologies that people love. We're relentlessly committed to pioneering innovative technology to empower millions of people in 140 countries to live happier, healthier lives. Our AI-powered digital health solutions, cloud-connected devices and intelligent software make home healthcare more personalized, accessible and effective. Ultimately, Resmed envisions a world where every person can achieve their full potential through better sleep and breathing, with care delivered in their own home. Learn more at Resmed.com and follow @Resmed.

For Media

Brad Lotterman

Brad.Lotterman@resmed.com

News@resmed.com

For Investors 

Salli Schwartz

Salli.Schwartz@resmed.com

investorrelations@resmed.com  

NOAA Publishes Notice of Intent in the Federal Register to Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement for TMC USA's USA-B Exploration License Application

*The publication of a Notice of Intent ("NOI") to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement ("EIS") represents a key milestone in the transparent regulatory approval process for TMC USA's USA-B exploration license application

*The USA-B application area covers -122,000 km2 of seafloor containing an estimated 1.02 billion tonnes of polymetallic nodules with high grades of nickel, cobalt, copper, manganese, and meaningful quantities of many rare earth elements

*Publication of the NOI in the Federal Register follows NOAA's earlier certification of the USA-B exploration license application on May 26, 2026

NEW YORK, Aug. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- TMC the metals company Inc. (Nasdaq: TMC) ("TMC" or the "Company"), a leading developer of the world's largest resource of critical metals essential to energy, defense, manufacturing and infrastructure, today announced that the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration ("NOAA") has published a Notice of Intent to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement in the Federal Register for the exploration license application submitted by the Company's subsidiary, The Metals Company USA LLC ("TMC USA"), under the Deep Seabed Hard Mineral Resources Act ("DSHMRA") and its implementing regulations.

The USA-B application area in the Clarion Clipperton Zone ("CCZ") of the Pacific Ocean covers ~122,000 km2 of seafloor and hosts an estimated 1.02 billion tonnes of polymetallic nodules based on TMC's Technical Report Summary for the Initial Assessment published in August 2025. In addition to the USA-B exploration license application, TMC USA is also advancing a consolidated application for an exploration license and commercial recovery permit for the USA-A area, which was submitted to NOAA on January 22, 2026, and determined to be fully compliant on April 28, 2026.

Gerard Barron, CEO and Chairman of The Metals Company, commented: "The publication of this Notice of Intent is another milestone in NOAA's methodical review process. We welcome the opportunity to participate in a rigorous Environmental Impact Statement process that invites public input and builds on more than a decade of our own environmental research and engineering, alongside 50 years of environmental research and a dozen other commercial and academic disturbance tests in the CCZ. As we've said from the beginning, good regulation should be transparent, predictable and grounded in rigorous baseline studies and impact assessment, and today's announcement demonstrates that process is continuing as intended."

The publication of the NOI follows the earlier certification of TMC USA's application for an exploration license over the USA-B area and represents another key step in a steady, transparent cadence of expected regulatory milestones:

NOAA will publish for public comment a draft EIS and draft Terms, Conditions and Restrictions ("TCRs") for TMC USA's proposed exploration activities on the USA-B area

Following the public comment period, NOAA will consider comments and the EIS will be finalized

NOAA will then make a final determination on the issuance of the license and its associated TCRs

The Company and its partners have conducted over a decade of scientific research, environmental baseline and impact data collection, and offshore engineering, building one of the most comprehensive datasets ever assembled on polymetallic nodules and their surrounding ecosystems. To date, independent academics have published 41 peer-reviewed studies based on the Company's dataset collected from Eastern CCZ. Earlier this year, TMC began sharing key findings from its Environmental Impact Assessment publicly as part of two new video series, highlighting how its dataset addresses environmental concerns and how innovation has reduced its environmental footprint. The exploratory activities outlined as part of TMC USA's USA-B exploration license application are expected to generate significant new data in Central and Western CCZ and, with all academics involved free to publish, the Company anticipates that hundreds more papers will be published over the coming months and years.

NOAA has played a central role in advancing scientific understanding of deep seabed mining impacts since the 1970s, including conducting environmental research cruises in the CCZ, monitoring early nodule collection trials, and publishing a Programmatic Environmental Impact Statement covering the CCZ in 1981. In the 1980s and 1990s, NOAA conducted further research into benthic plumes through its Benthic Impact Experiments program where the agency used a custom-built machine to simulate and study seafloor disturbance. The agency issued comprehensive DSHMRA implementing regulations in 1981 (for exploration licenses) and 1989 (for commercial recovery permits) and has maintained an active licensing program since that time, with multiple exploration licenses renewed on a five-year basis.

About The Metals Company

The Metals Company is a developer of lower-impact critical metals from seafloor polymetallic nodules, on a dual mission: (1) supply metals for energy, defense, manufacturing and infrastructure with net positive impacts compared to conventional production routes and (2) trace, recover and recycle the metals we supply to help create a metal commons that can be used in perpetuity. The Company has conducted more than a decade of research into the environmental and social impacts of offshore nodule collection and onshore processing. More information is available at www.metals.co. 

Contacts

Media | media@metals.co

Investors | investors@metals.co 

Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

Smith+Nephew (LSE:SN, NYSE:SNN), the global medical technology company, today announces a breakthrough in RF resection technology for hip with its new FLOW FLEXTEND COBLATION Wand.

Designed as an extension of its proprietary FLOW-IQ technology with an adjustable-angle tip, the FLOW FLEXTEND Wand is designed to give surgeons enhanced joint access1* and precise tissue targeting3 for hard-to-reach hip, knee and shoulder anatomies.

Determining the root cause of a patient's hip pain can be very challenging and repairs are procedurally complex. Current wand offerings - such as knee wands that have simply been made longer - fall short of surgeons' needs for an improved option to better access all targeted tissues. The FLOW FLEXTEND Wand solves this unmet need with a wand designed by hip surgeons specifically for hip procedures with features including:

Proprietary, high performing FLOW-IQ Technology: Clinically and commercially validated since 2016, FLOW-|Q Technology automatically balances saline outflow with COBLATION energy, delivering exceptional precision or speed2,4**based on clinical need.

Precision electrode design with adjustable-angle tip: Designed to improve and expand access1* to targeted tissues while facilitating insertion and removal by straightening the shaft.

Set and forget angle adjustment mechanism: Once a desired angle is set, the surgeon may release their hand from the mechanism without touching it again unless required for further adjustments.5

Feedback from the surgeon community using the FLOW FLEXTEND COBLATION Wand for the first time has been encouraging:

Dr. Joshua D. Harris, Orthopedic Surgeon at Houston Methodist specializing in sports medicine and hip preservation commented, "The articulation gives the FLOW FLEXTEND COBLATION Wand a significant advantage, and a lot more versatility in the central compartment without capsular disruption than any of the other instruments I have used before."

Dr. Jovan Laskovski, Orthopaedic Surgeon at Crystal Clinic Orthopaedic Center added, "The FLOW FLEXTEND COBLATION Wand's tip geometry - and the fact that it's flexible - allows for a precise capsule-to-labrum recess and preservation of the capsule."

The FLOW FLEXTEND Wand utilizes Smith+Nephew's proprietary COBLATION Technology - clinically proven to improve patient outcomes compared to mechanical debridement.6-8? Continuing to evolve over three decades of research and innovation, including refined wand designs, improved delivery systems and expanded indications, COBLATION Technology continues to set the gold standard for resection.

For more information about Smith+Nephew's FLOW FLEXTEND COBLATION Wand and FLOW~IQ Technology, please visit the webpage here.

- ends -

Media Enquiries

Dave Snyder                +1 (978) 749-1440

Smith+Nephew        david.snyder@smith-nephew.com

BENGKALIS, - Usai memimpin Upacara Peringatan Hari Pramuka Ke-65 Tahun 2026, Bupati Bengkalis Hj. Kasmarni menyerahkan penghargaan Lencana Pancawarsa kepada 19 anggota Gerakan Pramuka, di Lapangan Tugu Bengkalis, Senin (17/8/2026).

Penyerahan Lencana Pancawarsa tersebut menjadi bentuk penghargaan atas kesetiaan, ketekunan, dan pengabdian para anggota Pramuka dalam menjalankan tugas serta berkontribusi terhadap pembinaan generasi muda di Kabupaten Bengkalis.

Bupati Bengkalis Hj. Kasmarni menyampaikan apresiasi kepada para penerima penghargaan dan berharap capaian tersebut dapat menjadi motivasi untuk terus memberikan pengabdian terbaik bagi Gerakan Pramuka.

Menurutnya, penghargaan yang diberikan bukan sekadar bentuk apresiasi, tetapi juga menjadi pengingat bahwa setiap pengabdian yang dilakukan dengan penuh keikhlasan memiliki nilai penting dalam membangun generasi muda yang berkarakter, terampil, mandiri, dan bertanggung jawab.

"Selamat kepada penerima Lencana Pancawarsa. Jadikan penghargaan ini sebagai motivasi untuk terus berkarya dan memberikan pengabdian terbaik bagi Gerakan Pramuka," ujar Hj. Kasmarni.

Adapun penerima penghargaan diberikan kepada Dino Wahyudi selaku Andalan Cabang penerima Pancawarsa I, Halimatusadiah selaku Andalan Cabang penerima Pancawarsa I, Zainal selaku Pembina penerima Pancawarsa I, Yudi Maparon selaku Andalan Ranting penerima Pancawarsa I, Riki Rihardi selaku Ketua Majelis Pembimbing Ranting penerima Pancawarsa I, Arafik selaku Ketua Kwartir Ranting penerima Pancawarsa I, Eldy Syafuan selaku Andalan Cabang penerima Pancawarsa I Zalehawati selaku Andalan Kwartir Cabang penerima Pancawarsa I.

Kemudian Fitra Rana selaku Ketua Kwartir Ranting penerima Pancawarsa I, Wiyasa selaku Andalan Ranting penerima Pancawarsa I, Rafli Kurniawan selaku Ketua Majelis Pembimbing Ranting penerima Pancawarsa I, Gunawan selaku Wakil Ketua Kwartir Ranting penerima Pancawarsa I, Rahmatul Husna selaku Pembina penerima Pancawarsa I, Susanto selaku Sekretaris Kwartir Ranting penerima Pancawarsa I, Murni selaku Andalan Ranting penerima Pancawarsa I, Suarni selaku Pembina penerima Pancawarsa I, Supa'at selaku Ketua Majelis Pembimbing Gugus Depan penerima Pancawarsa I, Ainul Fitri selaku Pembina penerima Pancawarsa I, serta Jasmarni selaku Andalan Cabang penerima Pancawarsa II.

BENGKALIS, - Pemerintah Kabupaten Bengkalis melalui Dinas Kebudayaan, Pariwisata, Pemuda dan Olahraga (Disbudparpora) Kabupaten Bengkalis bekerjasama dengan Bengkalis Creative Network (BCN) menggelar Ekraforia 2026. 

Ekraforia 2026 yang dilaksanakan Gedung Jill Belanda atau Huis Van Bewering, jalan Pahlawan Kota Bengkalis, dirancang sebagai wadah untuk mempertemukan pelaku ekonomi kreatif, UMKM, komunitas, akademisi, lembaga keuangan hingga hiburan bagi masyarakat.

Bangunan bersejarah peninggalan kolonial Belanda itu disulap menjadi ruang kreativitas dan pergerakan ekonomi masyarakat.

Dibuka secara resmi oleh Wakil Bupati Bengkalis, Jumat 14 Agustus 2026 yang juga menjadi bagian dari rangkaian menyambut Hari Ulang Tahun (HUT) ke-81 Kemerdekaan Republik Indonesia merupakan hasil kolaborasi berbagai pemangku kepentingan ekonomi kreatif, komunitas, pemerintah daerah, serta jejaring ekonomi kreatif yang ada di Kabupaten Bengkalis.

Pemerintah Kabupaten Bengkalis terus mendorong penguatan ekosistem ekonomi kreatif sebagai salah satu kekuatan baru dalam meningkatkan nilai tambah dan kesejahteraan masyarakat Kabupaten Bengkalis.

Dalam sambutan tertulis Bupati Bengkalis yang dibacakan Wakil Bupati Bengkalis H. Bagus Santoso mengucapkan selamat datang dan berkreasi kepada seluruh tamu dan peserta Ekraforia 2026.

"Kegiatan ini diharapkan tidak hanya menjadi ajang menghadirkan kemeriahan, tetapi juga menjadi ruang untuk berbagi gagasan, menampilkan karya, membangun jejaring, memperkuat kolaborasi, serta membuka peluang baru bagi tumbuhnya ekonomi kreatif di Kabupaten Bengkalis,"ungkap Bagus.

Selain itu, ia juga memberikan apresiasi kepada seluruh pihak yang telah menggagas, mempersiapkan dan menyukseskan kegiatan tersebut, khususnya pengurus BCN dan ICCN Bengkalis atas komitmen, kreativitas dan semangat kolaborasi yang telah dibangun.

Menurutnya, Ekraforia diharapkan tidak berhenti sebagai sebuah kegiatan atau event semata, tetapi dapat berkembang menjadi gerakan bersama dalam membangun ekosistem ekonomi kreatif Kabupaten Bengkalis yang lebih kuat, produktif, mandiri dan berkelanjutan. 

Lebih lanjut, bagus menambahkan, Pemerintah Kabupaten Bengkalis akan terus mendorong hadirnya ruang-ruang kreatif yang produktif dan inklusif serta memberikan manfaat nyata bagi masyarakat.

"Ekraforia 2026 diharapkan menjadi titik awal gerakan bersama untuk membangun ekonomi kreatif Bengkalis yang lebih kuat, mandiri, berdaya saing dan berkelanjutan. Kreativitas juga diharapkan mampu memperkenalkan Bengkalis kepada dunia sebagai daerah yang kaya budaya, kaya talenta dan kaya gagasan,"tutup Bagus.

Pelaksana Tugas (Plt) Kepala Disbudparpora Kabupaten Bengkalis, Ardiansyah mengatakan, kegiatan tersebut merupakan bagian dari upaya Pemerintah Kabupaten Bengkalis dalam membuka ruang yang lebih luas bagi pertumbuhan ekonomi kreatif dan UMKM.

"Ekraforia ini merupakan bagian dari agenda Kabupaten Bengkalis dalam memperingati 17 Agustus 2026. Kegiatan ini diinisiasi dan diinginkan oleh Bupati Bengkalis Kasmarni bagaimana kita menciptakan ekonomi kreatif dan meningkatkan upaya UMKM-UMKM yang ada di Kabupaten Bengkalis."

Menurutnya, pengembangan ekonomi kreatif tidak bisa dilakukan sendiri oleh pemerintah. Karena itu, Disbudparpora menggandeng berbagai komunitas, termasuk Bengkalis Creative Network (BCN), dalam pelaksanaan Ekraforia tahun ini.

Ia berharap kegiatan tersebut tidak berhenti sebagai agenda tahunan, tetapi mampu melahirkan ruang-ruang baru bagi pelaku kreatif dan UMKM untuk tumbuh.

"Kita berharap ke depannya kegiatan ini bisa menjadi tempat berkembangnya ekonomi kreatif dan muncul spot-spot baru untuk UMKM," ujar Ardiansyah.

Penyelenggaraan Ekraforia tahun 2026 ini, berlangsung tiga hari mulai tanggal 14-16 Agustus 2026, berlokasi di Jail Huis Van Bewaring atau akrab disebut Penjara Belanda di Jalan Pahlawan Kelurahan Bengkalis Kota.

Berbagai kreasi yang ditampilkan pada Ekraforia tahun 2026 diantaranya, creative gallery, maker space, creative stage, local market, creative connet dan Ekrafo Run.

Turut hadir dalam pembukaan tersebut, Wakil ketua ll DPRD Bengkalis Hendrik Firnanda Pangaribuan, Anggota DPRD Bengkalis, Irmi Syakip Arsalan, Sekretaris Deputi Bidang Pengembangan Talenta dan Daya Saing Koperasi, Wisnu Gunadi, Dandim 0303/Bengkalis diwakili Danramil 01/Bengkalis Kapten Arm Yogi Sudarso, Kapolres Bengkalis diwakili Kabag SDM Polres Bengkalis, AKP M. Sahudi, Kepala Disparbudpora Bengkalis Ardiansyah, Kepala Dinas Perikanan Bengkalis, Mohammad Azmir, Ketua BCN Bengkalis, Riza Zuhelmy, Ketua Umum DPH LAMR Bengkalis diwakili Darmansyah dan para tamu undangan lainnya. inf/**

BENGKALIS, - Fun Run 5K menjadi penutup serangkaian kegiatan Ekraforia 2026 Simfoni Simetria Kabupaten Bengkalis pada Ahad 16 Agustus 2026 di Huis Van Bewaring jalan Pahlawan Bengkalis. 

Fun Run 5K dilepas langsung oleh Bupati Bengkalis, Kasmarni bersama Wakil Bupati Bengkalis, Bagus Santoso dan unsur Forum Koordinasi Pimpinan Daerah (Forkopimda). Kehadiran para pimpinan daerah tersebut menambah semarak kegiatan sekaligus menunjukkan dukungan terhadap berbagai aktivitas kreatif, olahraga, dan kebersamaan masyarakat.

Antusiasme peserta terlihat sejak garis awal hingga mencapai garis finis. Dalam kesempatan tersebut, Bupati Kasmarni turut menyerahkan hadiah kepada tiga pelari wanita dan tiga pelari pria yang berhasil menjadi peserta pertama yang mencapai garis finis. Selain hadiah bagi para pelari tercepat, panitia juga menyediakan berbagai doorprize yang semakin menambah kemeriahan Ekraforum 5K.

Setelah rangkaian Fun Run 5K, kegiatan dilanjutkan dengan senam bersama dan penutupan Ekraforia 2026 Simfoni Simetria. Dalam sambutannya, Bupati Kasmarni mengajak generasi muda, pelaku ekonomi kreatif, komunitas, seniman, budayawan, serta seluruh elemen masyarakat untuk terus berkarya, berinovasi dan memperkuat kolaborasi demi mendorong kemajuan daerah.

Kasmarni menegaskan, berakhirnya rangkaian Ekraforia tidak berarti berakhir pula semangat kreativitas yang telah tumbuh selama kegiatan berlangsung.

"Teruslah berkarya, teruslah berkolaborasi, teruslah berinovasi dan teruslah bergerak untuk Kabupaten Bengkalis yang lebih kreatif, produktif dan berdaya saing," pesan Kasmarni.

Menurutnya, Ekraforia bukan sekadar festival maupun panggung pertunjukan, melainkan ruang yang mempertemukan gagasan, kreativitas, budaya, inovasi dan kolaborasi. Berbagai rangkaian kegiatan yang dilaksanakan juga menunjukkan bahwa Kabupaten Bengkalis memiliki potensi kreatif yang besar dan beragam.

Karena itu, Kasmarni meminta seluruh peserta dan pelaku ekonomi kreatif tidak berhenti setelah kegiatan ditutup. Setiap gagasan yang lahir melalui Ekraforia diharapkan dapat dikembangkan menjadi karya yang bernilai, membangun kolaborasi yang lebih kuat, serta memberikan dampak nyata bagi masyarakat dan daerah."Kami percaya, masa depan Kabupaten Bengkalis ini tidak hanya dibangun dengan sumber daya alam, tetapi juga dengan sumber daya manusia yang kreatif, inovatif dan berdaya saing," ujarnya.

Kasmarni juga mengajak masyarakat menjadikan kreativitas sebagai kekuatan ekonomi, budaya sebagai identitas, dan kolaborasi sebagai cara untuk bergerak bersama.

"Dari Kabupaten Bengkalis ini kita ciptakan karya, dari karya kita lahirkan nilai, dari nilai kita bangun ekonomi, dan dari kolaborasi kita wujudkan Kabupaten Bengkalis yang bermasa," ungkapnya.

Kasmarni berharap semangat Ekraforia terus hidup di komunitas, ruang-ruang kreatif, sekolah, kampus, dunia usaha hingga di tengah masyarakat. Generasi muda juga diminta tidak takut bermimpi, mencoba dan berbeda, karena kreativitas lahir dari keberanian menciptakan sesuatu yang belum ada serta mengubah potensi menjadi kesempatan.

Atas nama Pemerintah Kabupaten Bengkalis, Kasmarni turut menyampaikan apresiasi kepada seluruh pihak yang telah berkontribusi menyukseskan Ekraforia 2026, mulai dari panitia, BCN, ICCN, komunitas kreatif, seniman, pelaku usaha, sponsor hingga relawan. Ia berharap kolaborasi tersebut terus berlanjut dan melahirkan gagasan-gagasan kreatif baru bagi daerah.

Turut hadir dalam acara tersebut Wakil Bupati Bengkalis H. Bagus Santoso, Dandim 0303/Bengkalis Letkol Inf Haris Nur Priatno, Kapolres Bengkalis AKBP Fahrian Saleh Siregar, Sekretaris Daerah Kabupaten Bengkalis dr. Ersan Saputra TH, Asisten Pemerintahan dan Kesejahteraan Rakyat Setda Kabupaten Bengkalis Ed Efendi, Staf Ahli Bupati Bidang Kemasyarakatan dan Sumber Daya Manusia Johansyah Syafri, Kasat Satpol PP Kabupaten Bengkalis Alfakhrurrazy, Kepala Badan Kesatuan Bangsa dan Politik Kabupaten Bengkalis Suwarto, Sekretaris Dinas Pariwisata, Kebudayaan, Kepemudaan dan Olahraga Kabupaten Bengkalis Reza Noverindra, Ketua BCN Bengkalis Riza Zuhelmy, serta para kepala Organisasi Perangkat Daerah di lingkungan Pemerintah Kabupaten Bengkalis. inf/**

Opini

Oleh: Ir. Muhammad Hakiem Sedo Putra, S.T., M.T.

Musim kering bukan sesuatu yang baru bagi Riau. Namun perubahan kondisi iklim dan tekanan terhadap lingkungan membuat musim kering perlu dihadapi dengan cara yang lebih serius.

Ketika hujan berkurang, dampaknya tidak hanya dirasakan melalui cuaca yang panas. Ketersediaan air masyarakat dapat menurun, lahan menjadi lebih kering, kebutuhan air perkebunan meningkat dan risiko kebakaran hutan serta lahan ikut bertambah.

Bagi Riau, persoalan tersebut menjadi semakin penting karena sebagian wilayahnya merupakan kawasan gambut.

Gambut memiliki hubungan yang sangat erat dengan air. Ketika gambut tetap basah, fungsi hidrologisnya dapat dipertahankan. Sebaliknya, ketika terlalu kering, risiko kebakaran meningkat.

Karena itu, menghadapi musim kering seharusnya tidak hanya berbicara mengenai bagaimana memadamkan api.

Kita juga perlu membicarakan bagaimana menjaga air agar api tidak mudah muncul dan berkembang.

Menjaga Gambut Berarti Menjaga Air

Gambut bukan sekadar lahan.

Ia merupakan bagian dari sistem penyimpanan air alami.

Ketika hujan turun, gambut dapat menyimpan air. Ketika musim kering datang, kondisi tersebut membantu menjaga kelembapan kawasan.

Namun apabila air terlalu cepat keluar melalui sistem drainase atau kanal, gambut dapat mengalami pengeringan.

Dalam kondisi tersebut, risiko kebakaran menjadi lebih besar.

Karena itu, pengelolaan tata air gambut harus menjadi bagian dari strategi pencegahan karhutla.

Pemantauan tinggi muka air, kondisi kanal dan kelembapan lahan perlu dilakukan secara konsisten, terutama ketika curah hujan mulai menurun.

Jangan Menunggu Titik Api

Kebakaran sering kali baru menjadi perhatian ketika titik api sudah terlihat.

Padahal proses menuju kebakaran telah berlangsung sebelumnya.

Hujan berkurang.

Hari tanpa hujan bertambah.

Vegetasi mengering.

Kelembapan gambut menurun.

Jika kondisi tersebut bertemu dengan sumber api, kebakaran dapat berkembang dengan cepat.

Karena itu, sistem peringatan dini harus mampu membaca kondisi sebelum kebakaran terjadi.

Data curah hujan, hari tanpa hujan, kelembapan lahan, tinggi muka air dan titik panas perlu digunakan secara bersama.

Tujuannya sederhana: bertindak sebelum kondisi menjadi darurat.

Air Hujan Perlu Disimpan

Ada persoalan lain yang tidak kalah penting.

Ketika hujan turun deras, kita sering berusaha mengalirkan air secepat mungkin.

Ketika kemarau datang, kita kembali mencari air.

Cara berpikir seperti ini perlu diperbaiki.

Sebagian air hujan dapat disimpan untuk digunakan ketika kondisi mulai kering.

Embung dapat dikembangkan pada kawasan yang sesuai.

Air hujan dapat ditampung di rumah, sekolah, kantor dan fasilitas umum.

Kota dapat memperkuat kolam retensi.

Kawasan resapan juga harus dipertahankan.

Air yang datang ketika hujan jangan seluruhnya dianggap sebagai masalah.

Sebagian justru merupakan cadangan untuk menghadapi kemarau.

Kota Harus Memberikan Ruang bagi Air

Pertumbuhan Pekanbaru dan kawasan perkotaan lainnya merupakan bagian dari perkembangan Riau.

Namun pembangunan juga mengubah siklus air.

Jalan, bangunan dan permukaan perkerasan membuat semakin sedikit air yang dapat masuk ke dalam tanah.

Ketika hujan deras, limpasan meningkat.

Ketika kemarau, cadangan air dari infiltrasi menjadi semakin penting.

Karena itu, pembangunan kota harus mempertimbangkan fungsi hidrologis ruang.

Taman, ruang terbuka hijau, kolam retensi dan kawasan resapan tidak seharusnya dipandang hanya sebagai pelengkap.

Semuanya adalah bagian dari sistem pengelolaan air kota.

Kota membutuhkan ruang bagi manusia.

Tetapi kota juga membutuhkan ruang bagi air.

Perkebunan Perlu Memperhatikan Kondisi Air

Perkebunan merupakan sektor penting bagi perekonomian Riau.

Karena itu, persoalan tata air juga berkaitan dengan keberlanjutan ekonomi.

Pada musim hujan, kelebihan air perlu dikelola.

Pada musim kering, kelembapan lahan perlu dipertahankan.

Khususnya di kawasan gambut, sistem kanal dan drainase perlu dikelola secara hati-hati.

Air yang terlalu cepat keluar dapat membuat lahan lebih kering.

Lahan yang semakin kering bukan hanya meningkatkan risiko kebakaran, tetapi juga dapat mengganggu keberlanjutan produksi. Dengan demikian, menjaga air bukan semata-mata persoalan lingkungan.

Ia juga merupakan kepentingan ekonomi masyarakat.

Data Cuaca Harus Menjadi Dasar Keputusan

Informasi cuaca semakin mudah diperoleh.

Namun informasi tidak cukup jika hanya dibaca.

Prakiraan musim kering harus diterjemahkan menjadi tindakan.

Ketika risiko kekeringan meningkat, pemantauan sumber air perlu diperkuat.

Ketika risiko karhutla meningkat, patroli harus ditingkatkan.

Ketika kondisi gambut mulai mengering, pengelolaan tata air harus dievaluasi.

Ketika masyarakat mulai mengalami keterbatasan air, sumber alternatif perlu disiapkan.

Dengan kata lain, data harus menjadi keputusan.

Masyarakat Memiliki Peran Penting

Pemerintah tidak mungkin mengawasi seluruh wilayah Riau seorang diri.

Masyarakat yang tinggal di sekitar hutan, gambut dan perkebunan justru sering menjadi pihak pertama yang mengetahui perubahan kondisi lingkungan.

Mereka dapat melihat kanal mulai kering.

Mereka dapat mengetahui ketika sumber air menurun.

Mereka dapat melaporkan asap atau api lebih awal.

Karena itu, masyarakat perlu ditempatkan sebagai bagian dari sistem peringatan dini.

Teknologi memberikan informasi dari atas.

Petugas melakukan verifikasi di lapangan.

Masyarakat memberikan informasi langsung dari wilayahnya.

Jika ketiganya bekerja bersama, pencegahan akan menjadi jauh lebih efektif.

Ketahanan Air Tidak Dibangun Saat Krisis

Kita sering baru memikirkan air ketika air mulai sulit diperoleh.

Padahal ketahanan air harus dibangun sebelum krisis.

Sumber air perlu dipetakan.

Kawasan resapan perlu dilindungi.

Air hujan perlu dimanfaatkan.

Gambut perlu dijaga kelembapannya.

Tata air perkebunan perlu diperbaiki.

Dan masyarakat perlu mendapatkan informasi yang cukup.

Langkah-langkah tersebut mungkin tidak selalu terlihat seperti pembangunan besar.

Namun dampaknya sangat penting dalam jangka panjang.

Riau Perlu Mengubah Cara Memandang Air

Riau memiliki sungai, rawa, gambut dan sumber daya air yang besar.

Tetapi banyaknya sumber air tidak otomatis menjamin ketahanan air.

Air dapat melimpah ketika hujan dan menjadi sulit diperoleh ketika musim kering.

Karena itu, persoalan utamanya bukan hanya berapa banyak air yang tersedia.

Persoalannya adalah bagaimana air tersebut disimpan, dilindungi dan dikelola.

Kita tidak dapat mengendalikan hujan.

Kita tidak dapat menghentikan fenomena iklim.

Tetapi kita dapat menentukan apa yang dilakukan ketika hujan masih turun.

Kita dapat menyimpan sebagian air.

Kita dapat menjaga gambut tetap basah.

Kita dapat melindungi kawasan resapan.

Kita dapat membangun kota yang lebih ramah terhadap siklus air.

Dan kita dapat melibatkan masyarakat.

Kemarau seharusnya bukan sekadar musim yang kita tunggu untuk berlalu. Ia adalah ujian apakah Riau sudah benar-benar mampu mengelola airnya.

Tentang Penulis

Muhammad Hakiem Sedo Putra, S.T., M.T., adalah dosen pada Program Studi Rekayasa Tata Kelola Air Terpadu, Institut Teknologi Sumatera (ITERA). Memiliki bidang keahlian pada hidrologi dan sumber daya air serta aktif dalam penelitian mengenai pengelolaan sumber daya air, konservasi lingkungan, dan risiko bencana hidrometeorologi.

HOUSTON, Aug. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Intuitive Machines, Inc. (Nasdaq: LUNR) ("Intuitive Machines," and together with its subsidiaries, the "Company"), a leading space technology, infrastructure, and services company, announced it has received an authorization to proceed from an undisclosed customer to begin work on a multi-satellite communications infrastructure program with an anticipated value of more than $600 million.

Under the agreement, Intuitive Machines will leverage its satellite communications expertise and industry-leading IM 1300TM satellite platform to design, manufacture, integrate, and support multiple spacecraft for a critical communications infrastructure mission. Additional program details remain confidential at the customer's request.

"This program reflects the trust customers place in partners who can execute complex space missions with precision, reliability, and schedule discipline," said Chris Johnson, President of Intuitive Machines Space Systems. "Our team is committed to delivering high-performance spacecraft while working closely with our customer throughout every phase of the program - from design and manufacturing through mission delivery. We are proud to support a mission that advances critical communications infrastructure and delivers long-term value for our customer."

"Winning this multi-satellite procurement is an important milestone for Intuitive Machines and reflects the confidence our customers place in our ability to deliver high-performance spacecraft for a broad range of mission needs," said Steve Altemus, Chief Executive Officer of Intuitive Machines. "Today, Intuitive Machines is executing programs across commercial, civil, and national security space markets, and awards like this reinforce both the strength of our diversified business and the growing demand for our space infrastructure capabilities. Our strategy is to build, connect, and operate the critical infrastructure that enables the next generation of space operations. With decades of experience in spacecraft design, manufacturing, communications, and mission operations, we are delivering capabilities our customers need today while creating the foundation for the future space economy."

This award further demonstrates Intuitive Machines' ability to deliver complex spacecraft and infrastructure solutions for customers across commercial, civil, and national security space markets through its integrated build, connect, and operate strategy.

The Company builds mission-critical spacecraft, systems, and infrastructure; connects those assets through resilient communications and navigation networks; and operates them as long-duration services that create enduring value for customers. Increasingly, these are not separate businesses, but successive layers of a single infrastructure strategy-designing and manufacturing space systems, connecting them into resilient networks, and operating them as long-term services.

Each new mission strengthens this integrated approach, expanding Intuitive Machines' ability to support customers throughout the mission lifecycle while reinforcing its position as a trusted provider of commercial, civil, and national security space infrastructure. As demand for resilient space capabilities continues to grow, the Company remains focused on building the enduring infrastructure that will power the next generation of space exploration and the space economy.

About Intuitive Machines

Intuitive Machines is a leading space infrastructure company that builds spacecraft, connects networks, and operates infrastructure-as-a-service for commercial, civil, and national security customers. With a proven track record across the space domain, the Company, through organic growth and portfolio expansion, has built over 300 spacecraft, delivered over 260 kilograms of payload to the lunar surface, and provided precision navigation expertise that has guided spacecraft across our solar system.

These capabilities form an integrated Built-Connect-Operate infrastructure service company, enabling customers to achieve mission and campaign outcomes through a single prime solution. Intuitive Machines' technology has been demonstrated across the space domain and is engineered to support the next century of opportunity in space.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, as amended. These statements that do not relate to matters of historical fact should be considered forward looking. These forward-looking statements generally are identified by the words such as "anticipate," "believe," "continue," "could," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "might," "plan," "possible," "potential," "predict," "project," "should," "strive," "would," "strategy," "outlook," the negative of these words or other similar expressions, but the absence of these words does not mean that a statement is not forward-looking.

These forward-looking statements include but are not limited to statements regarding: our expectations and plans relating to our missions and satellites, including the expected timing of building our satellites, launch and our progress in preparation thereof; our expectations with respect to, among other things, demand for our product portfolio, our submission of bids for contracts; our expectations regarding revenue for ATP awards and  contracts awarded to us; our operations, including our performance on future missions, our financial performance and our industry; our business strategy, business plan, and plans to drive long-term sustainable shareholder value; information regarding our expectations on revenue generation and cash. These forward-looking statements reflect the Company's predictions, projections, or expectations based upon currently available information and data.

Our actual results, performance or achievements may differ materially from those expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements, and you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. The following important factors and uncertainties, among others, could cause actual outcomes or results to differ materially from those indicated by the forward-looking statements in this press release: our factors detailed under the section titled Part I, Item 1A. Risk Factors of our Annual Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), the section titled Part I, Item 2, Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations and the section titled Part II. Item 1A. "Risk Factors" in our most recently filed Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q, and in our subsequent filings with the SEC, which are accessible on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.

Contacts

For investor inquiries: investors@intuitivemachines.com

For media inquiries: press@intuitivemachines.com

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Aug. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Under the patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and hosted by the Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services, the Global Logistics Forum will hold its second edition in Riyadh from 29 November to 1 December 2026, at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center.

The Forum will be held in conjunction with the UN Trade and Development Global Supply Chain Forum 2026, co-located at the same venue during the same week.

Together the two forums will form one of the region's largest gatherings of transport, supply chain and trade leaders, drawing policymakers, industry executives and investors from around the world.

The early date announcement follows the reception of the inaugural forum in 2024, when more than 13,000 participants from over 30 countries attended, alongside 140 speakers and 80 exhibitors. That edition produced 67 cooperation agreements and memoranda of understanding worth more than SAR16 billion ($4.3 billion), a benchmark the 2026 edition is designed to build on.

The Forum is positioned to reinforce Saudi Arabia's role as a global logistics hub linking continents, in step with the goals of Vision 2030. Its agenda will focus on innovation in logistics services, integrated global connectivity and supply chain sustainability.

The Ministry of Transport and Logistics Services said the Forum, co-located with the UN Trade and Development Global Supply Chain Forum 2026, will serve as a platform for launching strategic initiatives and forging international partnerships. Partners and industry professionals are invited to save the date for both events.

For more information visit: https://www.glforum.org/en

For media enquiries, please contact:

Rana Hossam

E: media@GLForum.org

About Global Logistics Forum:

Under the royal patronage of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques, King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, and hosted by the Ministry of Transport and Logistic Services, the Global Logistics Forum 2026 takes place from 29 November to 1 December in Riyadh, held in conjunction with the UNCTAD Global Supply Chain Forum. Building on a first edition that delivered more than 60 partnerships worth over SAR16 billion, the Forum returns to convene global industry leaders, policymakers and investors around the trade flows, technology and financing decisions shaping the sector's next decade.

Copyright 2026 GlobeNewswire, Inc.

JAKARTA, INDONESIA - Media OutReach Newswire - 17 August 2026 - VinFast and Gowa Motor Group, an established Indonesian automotive group with experience across multiple automotive brands, today announced the signing of a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to establish a joint venture that will develop VinFast's electric vehicle dealership network in Indonesia.

The partnership marks an important milestone in VinFast's strategy to expand its presence in one of Southeast Asia's most promising EV markets, bringing VinFast's products, services, and EV ownership experience closer to consumers across the Indonesian archipelago.

Under the MOU, VinFast and Gowa Motor Group will establish a joint venture to develop VinFast's dealership network across Indonesia, with a target of opening at least 30 showrooms and service centers.

The partnership reflects the two companies' shared commitment to building a long-term strategic relationship in Indonesia's growing electric vehicle market. By partnering with VinFast, Gowa Motor Group demonstrates its confidence in VinFast's vision, capabilities, and the long-term potential of its electric mobility ecosystem.

The new network will serve as a key pillar of VinFast's long-term growth strategy in Indonesia, offering VinFast's electric vehicles alongside aftersales services, maintenance, and customer care that meet the company's global standards. The partnership will contribute to VinFast's broader plan to expand its dealership network in Indonesia. The company currently operates more than 40 showrooms nationwide and aims to add over 150 new showrooms in the coming years.

The agreement with Gowa Motor Group reinforces VinFast's strategy of partnering with leading local companies to expand its distribution network, improve customer access to high-quality products and services, and support Indonesia's transition toward greener transportation.

Gowa Motor Group is an established automotive group in Indonesia with extensive experience across multiple automotive brands and vehicle segments. Its operation spans automotive distribution, dealership operations, passenger vehicles, and commercial vehicles, supported by a broad network and strong understanding of the local market. With its automotive expertise, operational capabilities, and market knowledge, Gowa Motor Group is expected to become a strategic partner for VinFast in expanding its distribution network, enhancing the customer ownership experience, and accelerating the adoption of electric vehicles in Indonesia.

Mr. Antonio Zara, Chief Executive Officer of VinFast Southeast Asia, said: "Gowa Motor Group is an established automotive group in Indonesia with extensive experience across multiple automotive brands. We believe the combination of VinFast's product development capabilities, advanced technologies, and comprehensive EV ecosystem with Gowa Motor Group's local market expertise, automotive network, and operational experience will provide a strong foundation for expanding VinFast's presence in Indonesia. More importantly, this partnership will enable us to deliver an increasingly convenient, comprehensive, and high-quality EV ownership experience for Indonesian customers."

Mr. Sadikin Aksa, Commissioner of Gowa Motor, said: "We see tremendous potential in Indonesia's electric vehicle market and strongly believe in VinFast's long-term vision. Our partnership not only creates new business opportunities for both companies but also reflects our shared commitment to accelerating Indonesia's green transition. Leveraging our experience across multiple automotive brands and our established network in Indonesia, Gowa Motor Group looks forward to working alongside VinFast to bring sustainable mobility solutions and high-quality services closer to consumers across the country."

Indonesia is one of the key pillars of VinFast's global growth strategy. Since entering the market, VinFast has rapidly expanded its product portfolio, commenced operations at its manufacturing facility in Subang, and built a comprehensive EV ecosystem through a growing network of strategic partners, including charging infrastructure developer V-Green, all-electric ride-hailing service GSM, financial institutions, banking partners, authorized service workshop partners, and dealerships nationwide. By combining manufacturing capabilities, a comprehensive EV ecosystem, and an expanding partner network, VinFast is steadily advancing toward its goal of becoming one of the leading electric vehicle brands in Indonesia and across Southeast Asia.

About VinFast

VinFast (NASDAQ: VFS), a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam's largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast's product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, e-bikes, and electric buses.

In Indonesia, VinFast is expanding its electric mobility ecosystem through a growing dealership and after-sales network, local partnerships, and its manufacturing facility in Subang, West Java, reinforcing its long-term commitment to the market.

Learn more at: https://vinfastauto.id

About Gowa Motor Group

Gowa Motor Group is an established automotive group in Indonesia with extensive experience in the automotive sector. The Group represents and operates across multiple automotive brands and vehicle segments, including passenger and commercial vehicles, supported by dealership, distribution, and customer service capabilities. With a broad network across Indonesia and a strong understanding of the local automotive market, Gowa Motor Group continues to build long-term partnerships and expand access to quality mobility products and services.

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

Hashtags: #VinFast