Latest news with #Mid-AutumnFestival
HKFP
24-06-2025
- Business
- HKFP
Hong Kong bakery chain Taipan shuts down after 41 years, owing salaries, rent
Hong Kong bakery chain Taipan Bread & Cakes, which created the famous snowy mooncakes, has shut down all its stores after 41 years in operation, reportedly owing salaries and rent. The news comes after local media reported three of its outlets, at Choi Hung, Tai Wai and Whampoa MTR stations, were closed on Sunday, allegedly due to overdue rent. According to a notice posted on the front door of the bakery's parent company, Vast Luck Group, Taipan ceased operations immediately after suffering from 'unpredictable and overwhelming challenges recently,' CableTV reported on Tuesday. Taipan ran 12 shops across Hong Kong, its website showed. Calls to Vast Luck Group's office and all 12 Taipan branches went unanswered on Tuesday morning. On Sunday, days before Taipan's closure, the Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions (FTU) said on Facebook that the bakery owed its staff salaries. In response to HKFP's enquiry, the FTU said that as of Tuesday noon, around 80 Taipan staff members had sought its help over unpaid salaries and that the union would assist some employees in going to the Labour Department to file a report. HKFP has reached out to the Labour Department for comment. Local magazine East Week reported in April on Taipan's financial problems, saying that multiple companies took the bakery to court over outstanding rent and that it failed to pay its staff salaries on time. 41-year history Taipan was founded by Kwok Hung-kwan in 1984. Five years later, in 1989, it rolled out its signature snowy mooncakes – chilled mooncakes with mochi-like glutinous skin and sweet fillings. The company ran 27 shops in Hong Kong at its peak, according to East Week. After mainland Chinese media reported that the son of Taipan's founder supported the 2019 protests and unrest, many shops across the border removed the bakery's mooncakes in September that year, ahead of the Mid-Autumn Festival. In 2021, Ricky Liu, chairperson of Vast Luck Group, acquired Taipan and transformed it into 'a Hong Kong brand that loves Hong Kong and the country,' according to a report published by state-backed newspaper Wen Wei Po in August 2023. The paper praised the bakery as 'a living testimony to Hong Kong's transition from stability to prosperity.' The shutdown of Taipan came amid a wave of business closures in Hong Kong. Earlier in May, chain restaurant Ocean Empire announced the closure of all its branches, putting an end to its 33-year history.
The Star
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
High demand for traditional dances
Energetic show: A file photo showing a lion dance performance by the Nam Wah Kangkar Pulai Lion and Dragon Dance Troupe. JOHOR BARU: Traditional dance groups are expecting an increase in demand for cultural performances next year in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026. Persatuan Anak Seni Sarawak founder and president Rosalind Kamis said interest in Sarawakian and Sabahan culture has been growing in Peninsular Malaysia. 'For now, we have not received any confirmed bookings for next year, but I believe they will start coming in as we get closer to Gawai next year. 'Usually, the demand for cultural performances from Sabah and Sarawak sees a spike from the end of May until the middle of July. 'I think it will be the same next year, but perhaps the numbers may be higher as more cultural events are expected to be held in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026,' she said. She said though Gawai falls on June 1 and 2, and Kaamatan on May 30 and 31, the festivals in Sarawak and Sabah respectively are typically celebrated throughout the month. Rosalind, a Lun Bawang from Limbang, Sarawak, who lives in Kuala Lumpur, said she has noticed growing interest among people from the peninsula to learn traditional dances. 'In the past, the majority of those attending our workshops (with Persatuan Anak Seni Sarawak) were Sarawakians or Sabahans residing in Peninsular Malaysia. 'But now, many people from the peninsula have also joined in,' said the traditional dance performer, who is also a fashion designer. Meanwhile, Nam Wah Kangkar Pulai Lion and Dragon Dance Troupe president Datuk Teoh Booi Fooi said they were also anticipating more bookings next year. 'Even this year, we are already seeing an increase in requests for performances during cultural events and officiating ceremonies. The demand comes not only from the Chinese community, but also from others who want to include cultural elements in their functions,' he said. Teoh said he expects to start receiving bookings for 2026 after this year's Mid-Autumn Festival, which is expected to fall in September. 'For now, we have yet to receive bookings for Chinese New Year, but they usually start after the Mid-Autumn Festival. 'We expect the same for cultural events in conjunction with Visit Malaysia 2026, and are prepared to welcome them. 'Even now, outside the festive season, we are receiving an average of about eight bookings every month,' he added.
The Star
11-06-2025
- Business
- The Star
Tmn Impian Emas folk use recycling revenue for events to foster ties
Muhammad Imran weighing a bag of recyclables at the Perita recycling centre in Taman Impian Emas, Johor Baru. A neighbourhood-led recycling centre in Iskandar Puteri is quietly making an impact, having collected nearly 20 tonnes of recyclable materials since it was launched almost four years ago. The Community Recycling Centre under Impian Utara 6B Residents Association (Perita) has become a key part of daily life for Taman Impian Emas residents, offering a convenient way to manage waste and contribute to sustainability. Its recycling committee chairperson Muhammad Imran Ismail said the centre was part of a wider movement to empower residents to manage recyclable waste at a time that suited them. Established in October 2021 through funding from the Iskandar Puteri Low Carbon Community Grant 1.0, the centre started with regular awareness campaigns to get residents on board with the idea of sorting recyclables at home before disposal. 'The initiative is guided by local academics who also reside in the area, forming a close-knit partnership with Perita,' he said. Muhammad Imran said the recycling centre had collected 19,967kg of recyclable items, including paper, aluminium cans, glass bottles, plastics and e-waste. He said this had generated an income of RM9,577, which was used to support centre operations and community programmes in the area. In addition, he said the centre had collected 660 litres of used cooking oil, equivalent to RM1,077. 'Community response has been overwhelmingly positive, with many residents requesting expanded facilities, such as specific stations for electronic waste and workshops for upcycling old items into useful products,' he added. Muhammad Imran said based on its records, paper-based materials accounted for 59.4% of all items collected, making it the top category. He said this included boxes, newspapers, coloured paper, and books while plastic accounted for 13%, glass bottles 10%, scrap metal 7.6%, e-waste 6.6% and used cooking oil 3.4%. 'Revenue from recycling is primarily used to cover operational costs and maintenance of the centre. 'Any surplus funds are channelled into the Perita community fund, which benefits all residents. 'While there is no fixed allocation for the proceeds, the funds have allowed us to organise community events like Malaysia Day and the Mid-Autumn Festival,' he said. Muhammad Imran said these events helped to strengthen neighbourhood bonds while promoting sustainability and collective responsibility. He said the association planned to explore more upcycling workshops and expand recycling categories in response to residents' feedback and growing environmental awareness.
IOL News
04-06-2025
- Politics
- IOL News
Cultural exchange between South Africa and China: A focus on growth and opportunity
Unlocking the potential of South Africa-China relations through cultural exchange Explore the rich landscape of South Africa-China relations as the Chinese Consulate in Durban reveals plans for deeper cultural exchanges and educational opportunities for local students. The Chinese Consulate in Durban, South Africa has revealed plans for deeper cultural exchanges and educational opportunities for local students. In an exclusive, yet candid interview with the Daily News this week, Li Zhigong, the Chinese Consul in Durban said these initiatives are set to foster understanding and collaboration between the two countries. As both nation continued to seek to strengthen their ties, cultural exchange emerged in the conversation as a pivotal tool for fostering understanding and collaboration. Li elaborated on how the Chinese Consulate in Durban promotes cultural exchange and mutual understanding between the two nations. He explained that the consulate actively collaborates with local institutions and the Confucius Institute at Durban University of Technology in the region to bring Chinese culture to South Africa while also celebrating South African traditions. "This dual approach enhances respect and comprehension between the two countries," he said. The Consulate has organised a variety of events aimed at bridging cultural divides. Festivals, exhibitions, and film screenings are among the many initiatives that have enriched Durban's cultural landscape. According to Li, Notable events include the vibrant celebrations of Chinese New Year, the Mid-Autumn Festival, and the National Day Reception. "These gatherings serve not only to celebrate Chinese heritage but also to foster dialogue and interaction with local communities," he explained. Furthermore, the consulate has supported various groups from China to present Chinese Pictures and Films Shows, calligraphy workshops, and traditional dance performances. One particularly exciting initiative on the horizon is the "China Cultural Camp" hosted by the Shude Chinese School in Durban. Set to take place in the latter half of this year, this camp will welcome dozens of teachers from China, offering local children and anyone interested in Chinese culture a unique opportunity to engage and partake in an enriching cultural experience. Education remains another cornerstone of the cultural exchange between South Africa and China. Li detailed how South African students and scholars can access scholarships or exchange programmes in China. "Applications can be made through the Chinese Embassy's scholarship platform or via the Confucius Institute for both language and degree scholarships. These comprehensive programs cover tuition, accommodation, and living stipends. The Consulate consistently works to ensure that the application process is transparent and fair, providing guidance and liaising with educational institutions to facilitate student access," he said. As both countries continue to navigate their relationship, cultural exchanges play a vital role in promoting cooperation, understanding, and a shared vision for the future. "Investment in cultural exchanges is an investment in our future partnerships,' concluded Li.
Korea Herald
23-05-2025
- Korea Herald
Agoda Spotlights Lantern Festivals Across Asia to Brighten the Year
SINGAPORE, May 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Digital travel platform Agoda is shining a light on some of Asia's most enchanting lantern festivals coming up in the remainder of the year. These lantern festivals are unmissable for travelers eager to immerse themselves in culture and dazzling light-filled celebrations. Lantern festivals have long been a favorite for travelers, offering a unique blend of tradition, artistry, and community spirit. For those who marveled at earlier festivals this year, like China's Spring Lantern Festival or Taiwan's PingXi Lantern Festival, there's good news—there are still plenty of opportunities to catch more lantern-lit magic in the months ahead. Monthly: Hoi An Lantern Festival, Vietnam Hoi An's Lantern Festival transforms this charming riverside town into a glowing wonderland every full moon. Visitors can expect the streets to be bathed in the warm glow of colorful lanterns, while the Thu Bon River sparkles with floating lights. This monthly celebration is a tribute to Vietnam's rich heritage, offering travelers a chance to release their own lanterns and make a wish. The festival's intimate atmosphere and timeless beauty make it a must-see for those seeking a serene yet magical experience. August 2025: Nara Tokae Lantern Festival and Obon Festival, Japan August in Japan is a double delight for lantern lovers. The Nara Tokae Lantern Festival lights up the historic city of Nara with thousands of candle-lit paper lanterns, creating a captivating illumination amidst ancient temples and deer-filled parks. Meanwhile, the Obon Festival, celebrated nationwide, honors ancestors with floating lanterns and traditional dances. Together, these festivals offer a harmonious blend of reflection, celebration, and cultural immersion. October 2025: Mid-Autumn Festival, China China's Mid-Autumn Festival, celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth lunar month, is a time for family reunions and moonlit festivities. Lantern displays take center stage, with intricate designs ranging from mythical creatures to modern art. Cities like Beijing and Shanghai host grand celebrations, but smaller towns also offer a more intimate charm. Mooncakes, storytelling, and lantern parades make this festival a feast for the senses and the soul. November 2025: Yi Peng and Loy Krathong Festival, Chiang Mai, Thailand Chiang Mai's Yi Peng and Loy Krathong Festival is a breathtaking spectacle of light and water. Thousands of lanterns are released into the sky, while floating krathongs (decorative baskets) are set adrift on rivers. This dual celebration symbolizes letting go of misfortunes and welcoming good luck. The sight of illuminated lanterns ascending into the night sky is a memory that will linger long after the festival ends. December 2025: Giant Lantern Festival, Philippines The Giant Lantern Festival in San Fernando, Philippines, is a dazzling display of craftsmanship and community spirit. Known as the "Christmas Capital of the Philippines," San Fernando showcases massive, intricately designed lanterns that light up the night in a kaleidoscope of colors. This festival is a testament to Filipino creativity and a joyful way to usher in the holiday season. Krishna Rathi, Senior Country Director at Agoda, said, "Lantern festivals are more than just a visual treat; they're a window into the heart of a culture. Agoda is here to help travelers experience the magic firsthand and make their journeys as seamless as possible. Whether you're floating a lantern in Hoi An or Chiang Mai, Agoda's got your travel plans covered." With over 5 million holiday properties, 130,000 flight routes, and 300,000 activities to choose from, Agoda makes it easy to plan a lantern-lit adventure. Visit and find the best deals on the Agoda mobile app.
