CMA: DUNE RETURNS TO ABU DHABI'S SANDS FOR THIRD INSTALMENT

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 27 (Bernama) -- Abu Dhabi has returned as a principal shooting location for the next chapter in Denis Villeneuve’s cinematic adaptation of Frank Herbert’s classic science fiction saga Dune.

Media company Legendary Entertainment confirmed that production on the highly anticipated third instalment will return to Abu Dhabi’s picturesque Liwa desert with its cinematic towering sand dunes and golden expansive horizon to capture the essence of the mythical planet of Arrakis.

The new 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 (CMA) Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi Film Commission providing essential logistical support, and Image Nation serving as production partner.

According to CMA in a statement, the film, a continuation of the Academy Award-winning franchise from Legendary Pictures and Warner Bros Pictures, will again benefit from the cashback rebate offered by the Abu Dhabi Film Commission.

Abu Dhabi has served as the backdrop for over 180 major film and television productions through the introduction of the cashback rebate, including F1 The Movie, Mission: Impossible, Star Wars, Fast and Furious, and Sonic the Hedgehog, a reflection of the emirate’s diverse locations, talent pool, and filmmaking incentives.

The mission of the CMA is to champion content creation in Abu Dhabi by empowering content creators via strategic guidance, talent development, financial support, and a world-class regulatory environment.

-- BERNAMA

A Life Rewritten: KFSHRC Treats Rare Disease After 22 Years of Specialized Care

RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, Aug 25 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- In a rare example of a lifelong bond between a patient and a healthcare institution, King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre (KFSHRC) in Riyadh has continued to support a patient since infancy, providing 22 years of continuous care for a rare genetic blood clotting disorder, ultimately culminating in a liver transplant—the first of its kind globally for this particular condition.

When the early signs of illness appeared during the patient’s first months of life, KFSHRC teams raced against time to stabilize her condition. She was diagnosed with a congenital deficiency in plasminogen, a protein essential for dissolving blood clots, resulting in fibrous deposits that posed serious threats to her tissues and organs.

The complexity of her case posed both medical and quality-of-life challenges, requiring a comprehensive, multidisciplinary care system. This extended beyond medical treatment to include all facets of life-supporting care. Teams from nursing, nutrition, and information technology joined hematology and transplant specialists to ensure the young girl’s well-being.

In a reflection on the early days, the patient’s father said: “My daughter suffered from the moment she was born. She cried constantly and couldn’t nurse. We lived in continuous worry with no clear answers until God opened a door of hope. Today, thanks to God first, and then to the remarkable healthcare capabilities provided by the Government of the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, may God preserve them, we witness our daughter’s recovery from this rare disease after two decades of struggle.”

Throughout the years of treatment, the patient relied on regular intravenous doses of plasminogen, along with eye drops to reduce the disease’s effect on her vision. The annual cost of treatment exceeded 6 million SAR, fully covered by the Saudi government. This reflects the Kingdom’s profound commitment to human health and its investment in quality of life even in the most complex medical cases.

Dr. Hazzaa Al-Zahrani, Director of Adult Hematology and Stem Cell Transplant Division at KFSHRC Riyadh and the supervising physician, explained that managing the case required a precise and long-term approach to prevent complications and ensure stability. The decision to proceed with a liver transplant came after careful consideration as an extraordinary therapeutic option for an exceptionally rare case. The success of the procedure marked a turning point in her medical journey and a beacon of hope for patients facing similar conditions worldwide.

This approach is deeply rooted in the vision of King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre, which places the patient at the core of every practice and is committed to delivering integrated care where scientific expertise meets human compassion, in line with its mission to serve society at the highest standards.

For more information, visit www.kfshrc.edu.sa or contact our media team at mediacoverage@kfshrc.edu.sa

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/850971e1-ae0f-4702-9148-d6a28a85bf3e 


SOURCE: King Faisal Specialist Hospital & Research Centre

Bitget Debuts First-Ever RWA Index Perpetuals Featuring Major Real-World Assets

VICTORIA, Seychelles, Aug 21 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Bitget, the leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, today announced the launch of the industry’s first RWA (Real-World Asset) Index Perpetual Contract. This pioneering product, set to go live on August 20, introduces a new way for users to trade tokenized traditional assets, starting with selected RWA products including TSLAUSDT (RWA), NVDAUSDT (RWA), and CRCLUSDT (RWA). 

The RWA Index Perpetual Contract is built on a composite of tokenized stock indices already circulating in the market. Each index contains one or more RWA tokens to track prices from different third-party issuers. For example, the AAPL RWA Index Perpetual Contract may represent a composite of AAPL tokens issued by a couple of different third-party issuers.

Similar to how existing crypto perpetual contracts derive their index prices from multiple major crypto exchanges, Bitget’s innovative RWA Index Perpetual Contract can dynamically add or remove index sources depending on measurable factors such as market activity, trading volume, and liquidity conditions. Bitget may adjust and disclose the index weighting from time to time. This approach guarantees both flexibility and fairness in pricing.

To maintain fair pricing and risk management, the RWA Index Perpetual Contracts will be traded on a 5×24 schedule, closing on weekends and stock market holidays. During closure periods, the market price will remain frozen to prevent liquidation; however, users may choose to add margin in anticipation of sharp market moves upon reopening. Order cancellations will be allowed during these closures, while new orders will not be accepted. Funding fees will also pause during market closures, with settlement resuming on an hourly cycle when trading is active.

In terms of trading experience, RWA perpetual contracts share the same mechanics and liquidation process as existing crypto perpetual contracts, reducing the learning curve for users. To mitigate early-stage risks, Bitget will cap leverage at 10x, support only isolated margin mode, and apply open interest position limits across the platform.

“Bitget thrives on innovation that stems from the emerging cryptospace,” said Gracy Chen, CEO at Bitget. “With the world’s first RWA Index Perpetual Contract, we are slowly transitioning into a comprehensive ecosystem of all things finance. This product shows the platform's advancement as compared to other players, as it enables traders with exposure to a modern and traditional range of asset classes, bridging the gap between TradFi and DeFi.”

At launch, Bitget’s index pricing will draw from stock tokens issued on the xStocks platform, with plans to onboard additional trusted issuers in the near future. Support for a broader range of RWA perpetual contracts on Bitget Futures is also scheduled for later this quarter.

Terms and conditions apply. To get started, visit here.

About Bitget

Established in 2018, Bitget is the world's leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform.

Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World's Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets. Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. In the world of motorsports, Bitget is the exclusive cryptocurrency exchange partner of MotoGP™, one of the world’s most thrilling championships.

For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/43f9cffc-0505-4c44-8fa1-e2b89f35ea3a 

SOURCE: Bitget Limited

DISCLAIMER: BERNAMA MREM are not accountable for any causes of website defacement, misuse, or illegal activities connected to cryptocurrency, blockchain, tokenisation, or bitcoin. This material should not be considered as guidance or an opinion, as it does not constitute financial or investment advice. Use this information at your own risk; we are not liable for any losses or damages caused by the republication of this article. 

--BERNAMA

Levi’s, Beyoncé Drop “The Denim Cowboy” Finale In Dazzling Campaign Wrap-up

 

Beyoncé and Levi’s® Launch The Denim Cowboy

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 6 (Bernama) -- Levi’s and Beyoncé have unveiled The Denim Cowboy, the cinematic conclusion to their year-long REIIMAGINE campaign, redefining denim and rewriting the rules of cultural storytelling.

Directed by Grammy-winner Melina Matsoukas and set to a reworked track from Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter album, the 90-second film unites three earlier shorts—Launderette, Pool Hall, and Refrigerator—into a stylish Western saga of empowerment and reinvention.

In a star turn, Beyoncé outplays Timothy Olyphant in a pool game to win his prized 501 jeans, setting the stage for the debut of the bold Western Crystal ’90s Shrunken Trucker jacket and Curve 501 jeans—standout pieces from the new BEYONCÉ X LEVI’S collection.

Levi Strauss & Co Global Chief Marketing Officer of the Levi’s brand, Kenny Mitchell said this final chapter celebrates a partnership built on putting women at the centre of the story, calling the campaign a milestone moment for the brand.

Beyoncé’s Vegas tour finale amplified the launch as her dancers lit up the stage in shimmering custom Levi’s denim—mirroring the bold energy of the campaign, according to a statement.

The capsule collection, including two head-turning full-denim looks, drops Aug 4 on Beyonce.com and Aug 7 on Levi.com and select Levi’s stores.

Shot by Emmy-winning cinematographer Marcell Rév and photographer Mason Poole, The Denim Cowboy fuses retro Americana with modern iconography, reinforcing Levi’s place at the heart of culture.

The campaign was created in collaboration with TBWA\Chiat\Day LA and Parkwood Entertainment and produced by de la revolućion/PRETTYBIRD.

-- BERNAMA

First ‘climate citizens’ approved by Nauru in world-first program

AUCKLAND, New Zealand, Aug 5 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Republic of Nauru has welcomed its first new citizens under the government’s Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program, announced at COP29 late last year.

Nauru, ranked the world’s fifth most vulnerable nation under the United Nations’ Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI) for its heightened exposure to economic and environmental shocks, launched the program as a way for conscientious investors to acquire an additional citizenship while contributing to climate adaptation and sustainable development projects in the South Pacific.

Program CEO Edward Clark revealed the first approved applicant is a German family of four who recently sold their long-standing family business — a well-known, reputable German company — and are currently living in Dubai.

“They were looking for a second citizenship to provide them with a Plan B given the current global political volatility and chose the Nauru Economic & Climate Resilience Citizenship Program because the contribution was going towards tackling the impacts of climate change on the island,” he explained.

Mr Clark, who has an extensive background in international banking, financial crime and compliance, said it took under four months from receiving the application to the granting of citizenship, and that strict due diligence processes were followed.

“This is a fundamental pillar of our program and a safeguard for Nauru’s reputation and security,” he said.

“All applicants undergo checks with international law enforcement agencies and are subject to in-depth background verification. Our entire application process is consistent with international best practices.”

He said only individuals of the highest calibre who can participate in shaping Nauru’s future will be granted citizenship.

“The granting of Nauruan citizenship to this family marks a major milestone for the program and provides even more confidence to those who are currently exploring Nauru citizenship by investment.”

Nauru is embarking on a long-term project that will reform the nation in the face of economic challenges and climate change, which as well as dealing with issues like food and water security, includes the “Higher Ground Initiative” - relocating almost the entire population from the coast to higher ground.

The new citizens from Germany applied through international migration agents Henley & Partners, who in a statement said the company is “incredibly proud to represent the first applicant to be successfully granted citizenship under the Republic of Nauru’s Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program.

“For our firm, this goes beyond mobility; this is about directing capital into a Small Island Developing State, which is facing real climate risk.

“This is a clear example of how investment migration, when properly designed and governed, can channel capital toward economic and climate resilience measures and create a more sustainable future,” the statement concluded.

Media Contact:
barbara@crcpr.com.au

SOURCE: Nauru Economic and Climate Resilience Citizenship Program Office

--BERNAMA

Emerald Leads SGD 8 Million Investment in SG Enviro

 

SINGAPORE, Aug 5 (Bernama-GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Emerald Technology Ventures, a global leader in climate-tech venture capital, has announced a strategic investment in SG Enviro (SGE), a Singapore-based industrial wastewater engineering firm. The SGD 8 million investment, led by Emerald, will support SGE's expansion across Southeast Asia and the development and integration of proprietary technologies in its solution portfolio.

Founded in 2018 by environmental engineer Guah Eng Hock, SGE specializes in designing, integrating, and operating industrial wastewater treatment technologies tailored to Southeast Asia's unique requirements.

Emerald's investment aligns with its strategy of fostering collaborations among its portfolio companies as well as corporates to accelerate the adoption of sustainable technologies. SGE will benefit from partnerships with other Emerald-backed global technology firms. It can differentiate itself by integrating leading edge technologies, while these tech companies benefit from accessing a growing yet distant market in SEA via a trusted partner.

“We look forward to connecting our global portfolio of water tech entrepreneurs with SG Enviro’s strong execution and operation capabilities,” said Dr. Helge Daebel, Head of Emerald’s Water Practice and new member of SGE’s Board. “Together, we can bring world-class solutions to Southeast Asia’s industries – where the need for water resilience has never been more urgent.”

SGE's notable projects include the deployment of a large-scale AOP at an oil storage facility in Singapore, treating thousands of cubic meters of phenol-laden wastewater daily. The company has also secured contracts for retrofitting biogas wastewater systems at livestock farms and providing ongoing operations and maintenance services, establishing a recurring revenue model.

The investment will enable SGE to expand its footprint in Malaysia, Indonesia, and other Southeast Asian markets, where industrial wastewater treatment infrastructure is in high demand.

“This investment marks a significant milestone for us,” said Guah Eng Hock, Founder and CEO. “Emerald’s network will help us to scale up and create real impact across Southeast Asia.”

About Emerald Technology Ventures

Emerald is a globally recognized venture capital firm, founded in 2000, that manages and advises assets of over €1 billion from its offices in Zurich, Toronto and Singapore. The firm invests in start-ups and scale-ups that tackle big challenges in climate change and sustainability, with four current funds, hundreds of venture transactions and five third-party investment mandates, including loan guarantees to over 100 start-ups.

Bold Ideas. Bright Future.  www.emerald.vc

CONTACT FOR EMERALD:

info@emerald.vc

About SG Enviro

SG Enviro Pte Ltd is a Singapore based company adopting the latest emerging sustainable environmental technology. The application of Engineering, Procurement and Construction ( EPC ) approach weave our versatile proprietary innovation in advanced oxidation processes for industrial wastewater treatment. This allows us to integrate and tailor our products to meet the clients wastewater concerns whilst reducing our ecological footprint on society. https://sg-enviro.com/

Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/e1a72006-8073-414e-adc0-5223a4c51191

https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/ef525e68-ce45-4172-9703-f7b07711a90b


SOURCE: Emerald Technology Ventures