The Marriott Vacation Clubs™ Expands in Asia Pacific with New Resort in Khao Lak, Thailand and Growth in Bali and Shanghai

Marriott Vacation Club, Khao Lak Beach Resort marks the brand’s seventh vacation ownership resort in Asia Pacific, reinforcing growing demand across the region

ORLANDO, Fla.,  Aug 28 (Bernama-BUSINESS WIRE) — The Marriott Vacation Clubs™, a collection of vacation ownership brands under Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation, is expanding its presence in Asia Pacific with the opening of Marriott Vacation Club, Khao Lak Beach Resort in Thailand this August. The new resort is part of broader regional growth, that includes a new development at Marriott’s Enclave at Bali Nusa Dua Terrace and new apartments at Marriott’s Bali Nusa Dua Terrace, as well as the expansion of The Marriott Vacation Club’s marketing call center in Shanghai.

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“Our continued investment in Asia Pacific, including the opening of new resorts and the expansion of our call center operations, reflects our long-term commitment to the region,” said John Geller, president and CEO of Marriott Vacations Worldwide. “As interest in vacation ownership continues to rise among Asian travelers and international Owners and Members alike, we’re excited to deepen our presence and deliver exceptional experiences that blend cultural richness with the trusted quality of The Marriott Vacation Clubs portfolio.”
Introduction of Marriott Vacation Club, Khao Lak Beach Resort

In August 2025, The Marriott Vacation Clubs will debut its newest destination: Marriott Vacation Club, Khao Lak Beach Resort. Located within the stunning JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa, just 90 minutes from Phuket International Airport, 52 Family Suites are being thoughtfully transformed into spacious 2-bedroom vacation ownership apartments offering four distinct room types. Designed to comfortably host up to five guests, each apartment blends the warmth of Southern Thai-inspired architecture with traditional furnishings and locally influenced artwork. Perfect for extended stays, the accommodations will feature spacious living and dining areas and cozy bedrooms.

The architecture at the new resort takes cues from a traditional Lanna-style farmhouse, showcasing teak details, simple gabled roofs, warm wood paneling, and wide-open verandahs framing views of the Khao Lak mountains. Here, Owners, Members and guests will have access to JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa’s garden, part of the resort’s commitment to a sustainable future. The JW Garden supplies the resort with fresh, organic produce, cultivating more than 200 varieties of fruits, vegetables and herbs used across its restaurants. Guests can also take part in hands-on classes and workshops focused on farming, sustainability and well-being. Sustainability is further woven into the guest experience at Marriott Vacation Club, Khao Lak Beach Resort with initiatives designed to reduce environmental impact. Efforts include the elimination of single-use plastics throughout the resort, the use of reusable glass water bottles in guest rooms, and bamboo key cards as a natural, biodegradable alternative to plastic.

As part of the JW Marriott Khao Lak Resort & Spa campus, Owners, Members and guests at Marriott Vacation Club, Khao Lak Beach Resort will also enjoy a range of amenities, including an impressive one-and-a-half-mile lagoon swimming pool, the largest in Southeast Asia, a kids’ pool, 11 restaurants and pool bars, and, in late 2026, pickleball and basketball courts, adventure golf, and bicycles for exploring the area are anticipated to be available.

“Thailand is experiencing a major tourism resurgence, driven by forward-thinking government initiatives such as visa-free entry, increased flight access, a national campaign promoting travel, and renewed global interest sparked by recent film productions taking place here. Interest in the country’s diverse destinations is soaring,” said Lee Dowling, senior vice president and managing director, Asia Pacific, Europe and Middle East. “The debut of Marriott Vacation Club, Khao Lak Beach Resort marks a timely and strategic expansion for The Marriott Vacation Clubs, as we continue to meet growing demand from our Owners, Members and guests for enriching vacation experiences in Asia Pacific. With its beaches, rich cultural heritage, and rising profile as a leisure destination, Khao Lak is a natural fit for the kind of immersive stays our Owners and Members expect.”

Construction of additional apartments began in March with a ceremonial groundbreaking featuring a Brama ritual and Thai monk blessing ceremony to honor and bless the land. Additionally, a new sales gallery will open in early 2026. Designed to deliver a fully immersive experience, the space will introduce guests to the world of vacation ownership through an engaging showcase of the brand’s global portfolio and diverse destinations. This space will also showcase Thai design elements, such as lush tropical greenery, and a refined palette of warm neutrals, celadon green, and soft blue-greys to evoke a sense of place. Reservations are now open for future rental stays on www.MarriottVacationClubs.com, and Owners and Members in Abound by Marriott Vacations™ can use Club Points to reserve stays now with check-ins beginning August 28, 2025.

Continued Growth in Bali Vacation Offerings

The Marriott Vacation Clubs plans to unveil 32 new apartments as part of the Marriott’s Bali Nusa Dua Terrace expansion in early 2026. The new accommodations include 16 one-bedroom and 16 two-bedroom apartments, all featuring fully equipped kitchens and private plunge pools. Owners, Members and guests will also enjoy access to a 2,200-square-foot swimming pool and a 4,500-square-foot sun deck, with a pool bar and private cabanas.

Additionally, the brand will open Marriott’s Enclave at Bali Nusa Dua Terrace next year within the current Marriott’s Bali Nusa Dua Terrace property. The standalone, two-story apartments will include 13 two-bedroom and 13 three-bedroom units, each with a private pool and kitchen. Marriott’s Enclave at Bali Nusa Dua Terrace will also feature a dedicated lobby/check-in area, kids’ club, fitness studio, pool bar, and Owners lounge.

Owners, Members, and guests at both properties will have full access to amenities and facilities at the co-located Renaissance Bali Nusa Dua Resort. This includes access to five food and beverage venues, a pool, full-service spa, and fitness center.

Expansion of Call Center Operations in Shanghai

The Marriott Vacation Clubs is expanding its Shanghai marketing call center and officially opened the new office in summer 2025 with a larger workforce, growing from 80 to 125 associates to support increased demand among Chinese Owners, Members and vacationers. The call center provides dedicated marketing and engagement support, playing a key role in strengthening relationships across the region.

To learn more about The Marriott Vacation Clubs please visit www.MarriottVacationClubs.com.

About The Marriott Vacation Clubs™       

The Marriott Vacation Clubs™ is a part of Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation, and is a portfolio of industry leading vacation ownership brands with over 90 properties collectively throughout the U.S., Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, including the Marriott Vacation Club®, Sheraton® Vacation Club, and Westin® Vacation Club brands. Owners, Members and guests can enjoy year-round access to some of the best vacation destinations with villa-style accommodations. The Marriott Vacation Clubs’ point-based vacation ownership programs provide Owners, Members, and their families with the flexibility to enjoy high-quality vacation experiences. Follow The Marriott Vacation Clubs on FB/IG: @MarriottVacationClub, @SheratonVacationClub, @WestinVacationClub or TikTok @themarriottvacationclubs.

About Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation

Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corporation is a leading global vacation Company that offers vacation ownership, exchange, rental and resort and property management, along with related businesses, products, and services. The Company has approximately 120 vacation ownership resorts and approximately 700,000 owner families in a diverse portfolio that includes some of the most iconic vacation ownership brands. The Company also operates exchange networks and membership programs comprised of more than 3,200 affiliated resorts in over 90 countries and territories and provides management services to other resorts and lodging properties. As a leader and innovator in the vacation industry, the Company upholds the highest standards of excellence in serving its customers, investors and associates while maintaining exclusive, long-term relationships with Marriott International, Inc. and an affiliate of Hyatt Hotels Corporation for the development, sales and marketing of vacation ownership products and services. For more information, visit www.marriottvacationsworldwide.com.

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Contact

Neal Goldner
Investor Relations
IR@mvwc.com

Cameron Klaus
Global Communications
407-206-6300
media@mvwc.com

Source : Marriott Vacations Worldwide

–BERNAMA

New Chapter of “Sweet Industry” — Chronicle of High-Quality Development of Guangxi’s Sugar Industry

NANNING, China, Aug. 27, 2025 /Xinhua-AsiaNet/–

Guangxi Daxin Sugar Production Area 

in southern China, the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, leveraging its unique geographical location and climatic conditions, has become the country’s largest base for sugarcane cultivation and sugar production. The sugar output of Guangxi’s sugar industry has stably accounted for over 60% of China’s total sugar production, making it a cornerstone of the nation’s sugar industry.

Against this backdrop, a number of representative modern sugar enterprises have emerged in Guangxi. As one of the top 10 sugar enterprises in Guangxi, Guangxi Sungain Sugar Industry Group Co., Ltd. is a private joint-stock group company with sugarcane sugar production and operation at its core, integrated with diversified industrial investments. Sungain Group owns a large-scale sugarcane planting base; it has not only successfully achieved a diversified development layout but also played a demonstration and leading role in promoting the transformation and upgrading of the sugar industry.

The development of Guangxi’s sugar industry has yielded significant social and economic benefits. It has improved the comprehensive benefits of agriculture and become a crucial guarantee for the stable income of farmers in many sugarcane-growing areas. Secondly, the extension of the sugar industry chain — such as the comprehensive utilization of sugar by-products — has further enhanced resource utilization efficiency, enabling green and circular development. Additionally, the growth of sugar enterprises has provided strong support for local finances, promoting the construction of urban and rural infrastructure and the integration of regional economies.

Looking ahead, under the new-era guidelines of the national initiative to advance rural revitalization and coordinated regional development, and supported by relevant policies of the autonomous region government, Guangxi’s sugar industry is continuously strengthening technological innovation and brand building, and accelerating its development towards high-end, intelligent, and green transformation. By effectively utilizing new technologies such as digital agriculture and smart manufacturing, it is actively promoting the integration of the sugar industry with emerging industries, forging a new pattern of modern sugar economy with Guangxi characteristics, and contributing “sweet strength” to driving economic prosperity and social progress in ethnic group areas.

Source: Guangxi Sungain Sugar Industry Group Co., Ltd.

Caption: Guangxi Daxin Sugar Production Area

–BERNAMA

Ronaldo Mania Grips Hong Kong As Saudi Super Cup Makes East Asia Debut

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 26 (Bernama) — Football fever has taken over Hong Kong as Cristiano Ronaldo leads Al-Nassr into the first-ever Saudi Super Cup held in East Asia, turning the city into a five-day football fan zone.

The 40,000-seat Hong Kong Stadium hosted the tournament from 19 to 23 August, marking a milestone for both the city and the sport.

Organised by Sum KM Sport in collaboration with the Football Association of Hong Kong, China (HKFA) and the Saudi Arabian Football Federation (SAFF), the event features three high-stakes matches, including the grand final between Al-Nassr and Al-Ahli on Aug 23.

On opening night, Ronaldo’s side edged Al-Ittihad 2-1 in a nail-biting semifinal on opening night, while Al-Ahli stormed past Al-Qadsiah 5-1 to secure their spot in the final. During the Saudi Super Cup Final, Al-Ahli clinched the championship over Al-Nassr on 5-3 penalties after a thrilling 2-2 draw.

This marks the first time the Saudi Super Cup, launched in 2013, has ventured beyond the Middle East—spotlighting Hong Kong as a rising hub for international sport, according to the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) in a statement.

The excitement continues with the newly opened CR7 LIFE Museum at K11 MUSEA, an immersive tribute to Ronaldo’s extraordinary life and career, from his humble beginnings in his hometown of Madeira to his record-breaking performances at Manchester United, Real Madrid, Juventus, Al Nassr, and the Portuguese national team.

Soft launched on July 7, the 12,000-square-foot museum is a treasure trove for football enthusiasts, featuring his 2008 Ballon d’Or, Golden Boots, UEFA Champions League trophies, and jerseys from unforgettable matches.

Interactive highlights include the UR7 YouTube Studio, a replica of Ronaldo’s own filming space, and the GOAT Photobooth, where fans can use artificial intelligence to create a souvenir image alongside the legend, while also browsing exclusive merchandise such as signed jerseys and special-edition keepsakes.

With the Saudi Super Cup and the CR7 LIFE Museum both landing in Hong Kong this summer, football fans have the perfect reason to visit the city and take a chance to witness sporting history and learn more about one of the best players of all time.

— BERNAMA

Legendary Entertainment’s Dune Saga Returns Again to Abu Dhabi as Principal Shooting Location

ABU DHABI, United Arab Emirates, Aug 27 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Abu Dhabi will again return as a principal shooting location for the next chapter in Denis Villeneuve’s cinematic adaptation of Frank Herbert’s classic science fiction saga Dune.

Legendary Entertainment confirmed today that production on the highly anticipated third installment will return to Abu Dhabi’s picturesque Liwa desert with its cinematic towering sand dunes and golden expansive horizon to once again capture the essence of the mythical planet of Arrakis.  The film will continue the sweeping saga of Paul Atreides and the complex legacy of this empirical rule.  

Filming in the desert city will begin later this year with Creative Media Authority Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Film Commission providing essential logistical support, and Image Nation serving as production partner. 

The film, a continuation of the Academy Award®-winning franchise from Legendary Pictures and Warner Bros. Pictures, will benefit from the cashback rebate offered by the Abu Dhabi Film Commission.  

Abu Dhabi has served as the backdrop for more than 180 major film and television productions through the introduction of the cashback rebate, including F1® The Movie, Mission: ImpossibleStar WarsFast and FuriousSonic the Hedgehog, and Netflix’s 6 Underground and War Machine — a reflection of the emirate’s diverse locations, talent pool, and filmmaking incentives.

About Abu Dhabi’s Creative Media Authority
The mission of the Creative Media Authority (CMA) is to champion content creation in Abu Dhabi by empowering content creators through strategic guidance, talent development, financial support, and a world-class regulatory environment.

CMA was launched with a mandate to ensure the right ecosystem is in place for content creators to thrive. 

The Authority’s responsibilities include overseeing strategic organisations and initiatives within Abu Dhabi’s creative industries, including Image Nation Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Film Commission, as well as training and development initiatives such as creative lab and Arab Film Studio.
https://www.cma.gov.ae/

About Abu Dhabi Film Commission
Established in 2009, the Abu Dhabi Film Commission (ADFC) plays a pivotal role in delivering Abu Dhabi’s vision to become a leading global destination for creative and media industries. ADFC supports and accelerates the development of Abu Dhabi’s film and TV industry by promoting the Emirate as a world-class production destination and attracting local, regional, and international productions.

For more information, visit www.film.gov.ae

About Image Nation Abu Dhabi
Image Nation Abu Dhabi is one of the Middle East’s leading film studios with a mission to unlock the potential of the region’s creative talent to bring its vibrant storytelling to the world.

The company has built its reputation on breaking boundaries and unleashing imagination through content ranging from award-winning films and TV programs to documentaries and non-scripted series, produced in partnership with a global network of content creators, distributors, and channels. By catalyzing ideas, talent, and enterprise, the studio fosters dialogue and builds relationships that help bridge cultural gaps. 

Image Nation productions have been screened at film festivals across the globe and received the film and TV industry’s highest honors, including Academy Awards, BAFTAs, and Emmys.

In delivering on its mission, Image Nation also plays an important role in realizing Abu Dhabi’s vision to shape a competitive, sustainable, and globally open economy and positioning the emirate as a regional content creation hub.

About Legendary Entertainment 
Legendary Entertainment is a leading media company with film (Legendary Pictures), television and digital (Legendary Television and Digital Media) and comics (Legendary Comics) divisions dedicated to owning, producing and delivering content to worldwide audiences. Legendary has built a library of marquee media properties and has established itself as a trusted brand which consistently delivers high-quality, commercial entertainment including some of the world’s most popular intellectual property. In aggregate, Legendary Pictures-associated productions have realized grosses of nearly $21 billion worldwide at the box office. To learn more visit: www.legendary.com

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/36b0ee4e-00d4-4c48-8189-ddb615b69797

Contact:
Tryph Greenwood
tryph@thebrillcollective.com 

SOURCE: Creative Media Authority

Dingnan Reignites Global Football Passion as 2025 UYC Boys’ U15 & Girls’ U13 World Cup Begins

DINGNAN, China, Aug 25 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The 2025 UYC Boys’ U15 and Girls’ U13 World Cup officially opened tonight at the National Youth Football Training Center. The tournament features 32 teams from 11 countries and various regions of China, establishing itself as a major global event for youth football.

Prior to the opening, international players and coaches visited city landmarks and cultural exhibitions, gaining insight into Dingnan’s rich football heritage. Their experiences highlighted the event’s dual mission of competition and cultural exchange.

Local residents embraced the championship with enthusiasm. Streets and stadiums were filled with cheering fans, local families extended warm hospitality, and children eagerly gathered to take photos with international players. Football became a unifying celebration that extended far beyond the pitch.

The opening ceremony commenced at 7:30 p.m. with the national anthem, followed by the first match between host club Dingnan Zhu Meng Youth FC and Italy’s Carrarese Youth. Both sides displayed sharp skills, impressive teamwork, and determination, thrilling the audience. The match ended in a 1–1 draw, embodying the spirit of fair play and shared passion.

Halftime featured vibrant cultural performances, including lion and dragon dances, traditional dance shows, and freestyle football demonstrations. The blend of tradition and sport added a distinctive flavor to the evening, earning strong applause from spectators.

As fireworks lit up the night sky, the excitement spilled into the city streets and across social media, where residents shared highlights and celebrated together. The electric atmosphere reinforced Dingnan’s growing reputation as a host of world-class sporting events.

Now in its second year, the UYC World Cup stands as the only youth football tournament globally authorized to use the FIFA emblem. The addition of the Boys’ U15 category underscores Dingnan’s commitment to providing a high-level international platform for youth players and strengthening its position on the global football stage.

With matches continuing in the coming days, Dingnan is poised to remain a stage where young talent, cultural exchange, and the joy of football come together. 

About Dingnan

Dingnan, southern Jiangxi’s “Jiangxi-Guangdong Gateway,” boasts two point two three football fields per 10,000 people. With 13% of residents playing regularly, football is deeply popular. Nearly half of all local students—some sixteen thousand—actively participate.

Media contact: jojo@dingnanmedia.cn

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/086460d1-750c-4c10-9a84-0c6f2c33ae4d

SOURCE: Dingnan County People’s Government

–BERNAMA