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The Sun
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Sun
A Standout Celebration Series: Galaxy Music Gala: ‘A Musical Journey from Monaco to Macau' Triumphs
MACAU SAR - Media OutReach Newswire - 28 May 2025 - On May 21, the Galaxy International Convention Center came alive with the enchanting sounds of string music, as melodies from the shores of the Mediterranean traversed thousands of miles to grace the coastline of Macau. Galaxy Macau™, the award-winning luxury integrated resort, presented a spectacular musical extravaganza—'Galaxy Music Gala: A Musical Journey from Monaco to Macau' - to commemorate the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Monaco. Over one hundred political, business, and classic music lovers gathered for an unforgettable evening where music spoke louder than words. Mr. Troy Hickox, Head of Hotels & Lifestyle Development of Galaxy Entertainment Group ('GEG'), Director of Monte Carlo Societé des Bains de Mer ('SBM') paid homage to the significant ties between GEG and SBM in the welcoming speech, 'GEG is delighted to host this concert in celebration of the ten-year anniversary milestone of its strategic partnership with SBM; an enduring partnership which underpins our commitment to extending Monaco's ties through partnership initiatives worldwide. In tandem with this concert, GEG is committed to hosting a series of annual exchanges with Monaco; including premier international cultural and artistic events – uniting renowned individuals, artists and performers and enriching Macau's artistic offerings. Through tonight's gala, we hope to reinforce the cultural connection between Macau and Monaco, fully leveraging Macau's distinctive advantage as 'One Base' – an 'exchange and cooperation base with the Chinese culture at its core – celebrating significant cultural collaboration'. As the 30th anniversary of official China-Monaco relations, 2025 is a year to celebrate all things that link China with Monaco, be it through culture, commerce, the culinary arts, or sport. GEG is committed to creating an ongoing legacy of luxury entertainment in Macau, hand in hand with SBM.' Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Principality of Monaco to the People's Republic of China, H.E. Ms. Marie-Pascale BOISSON travelled to Macau especially to attend the concert as a guest of honour; delivering a heartfelt speech. 'As Ambassador of Monaco to China, I am so honored to be here this evening to share a very special musical event with you, initiated by GEG in this resounding celebration of the thirtieth anniversary of diplomatic relations between the People's Republic of China and the Principality of Monaco.' Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Principality of Monaco to the People's Republic of China, H.E. Ms. Marie-Pascale BOISSON, delivered a heartfelt speech in celebration of the thirtieth anniversary of diplomatic relations between the People's Republic of China and the Principality of Monaco. The concert was spearheaded by world-renowned violinist Zhang Zhang, who took the stage alongside the esteemed Monaco Zhangomusiq Concertmasters Orchestra, the virtuoso guitarist Pablo Márquez, and Andrea Cesari, the principal French horn of the Monte Carlo Philharmonic. As the first song Horn Concerto began, the stage transformed into a vibrant crossroads of Eastern and Western cultures. The Baroque elegance of Monaco's Palace Square and the intricate fusion of East and West in Macao's Ruins of St. Paul's merged in a mesmerizing interplay of light and sound. The concert's program was a masterpiece from Europe and beyond: the China premier of Gordon Jacob's 'Horn Concerto' showcased Andrea Cesari's virtuosity, blending the boldness of brass with the delicate whispers of strings beneath the Galaxy Auditorium's soaring ceiling. Tchaikovsky's cherished 'Serenade for Strings,' reimagined with innovative arrangements, saw the viola and double bass sections weave a tapestry of sound reminiscent of moonlight glistening on Venice's canals. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the Asian premiere of Manuel de Falla's iconic 'Three Dances,' adapted for guitar solo and conduct by Pablo Márquez. The guitar and string ensemble collaboration offered a fresh and captivating musical experience, prompting the audience to erupt in sustained applause for the adaptation's brilliance. In the concert's encore, young musicians from Pui Ching Middle School Macau and Lou Hau Middle School Macau joined artists from Monaco and France to present the cherished 'Song of the Seven Sons' as a musical ode to Macau's love and longing for reunification with China. As the final note of the encore faded into silence, the entire audience rose to their feet, accompanied by rapturous applause. On this night of shared camaraderie, music transcended language barriers, with each note embodying the essence of cross-cultural dialogue that poignantly bridged time and space. Founded in 2001, the Monaco Zhangomusiq Concertmasters Orchestra is a cultural diplomacy initiative dedicated to the Principality of Monaco, having performed alongside the Principality's ambassadors in various countries over the years. Concertmaster Zhang Zhang, a global music icon, has performed for leaders of both China and Monaco at high-level state visits at the invitation of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco. She was the first Chinese musician to have joined the Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra and has been graced with the honor of being granted special permission from the Prince's Government to perform with members of the Monaco Philharmonic Orchestra. In 2007, she established the NGO 'Zhangomusiq,' which leverages concerts to support humanitarian, ecological, and educational projects worldwide. On the 30th anniversary of China-Monaco diplomatic relations, the Monaco Zhangomusiq Concertmasters Orchestra, supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture of Monaco, embarked on a tour of China, with Macao as its first stop. Dedicated to deepening arts and cultural exchanges within the community and promoting the development of young talent in related fields, GEG hosted an extended activity 'Galaxy Entertainment Group Presents: A Musical Journey from Monaco to Macau's Campus' on May 19, inviting Zhang Zhang and Pablo Márquez to Pui Ching Middle School Macau. During the visit, Zhang Zhang not only shared insights into her experience as a performer and her musical career, but also showcased her artistry to over 200 teachers and students, inspiring them to embrace challenges and pursue their dreams. Arranged by GEG, the two world-class musicians also led a masterclass with students, providing professional guidance to enrich their musical techniques and broaden their horizons through cultural exchange. Additionally, GEG extended special invites to students and members from Lou Hau High School, Pui Ching Middle School Macau, Macao Youth Symphonic Orchestra Association, University of Macau, Federation of Associations of Cultural Sectors of Macau, and Young Men's Christian Association of Macau, to attend the concert on the May 21, providing them with an opportunity to experience the captivating fusion of Chinese and Western cultures through music. Zhang Zhang shared insights into her performance experiences and musical career to Pui Ching Middle School Macau teachers and students. As a cornerstone project supporting Macau's ambitions as a 'City of Performing Arts,' the 'Galaxy Music Gala' series presented by Galaxy Macau has already carved out a niche with landmark cultural events: following performances by legendary tenor Plácido Domingo, renowned pianist Lang Lang, and the beloved tenor Andrea Bocelli; culminating in the Monaco Zhangomusiq Concertmasters Orchestra's unforgettable performance. Galaxy Macau is committed to fostering culture as Asia's premier artistic destination, through world-class international performances, contributing to Macau's development as an 'exchange and cooperation base with Chinese culture as its mainstream and co-existence of different cultures.'
IOL News
26-05-2025
- Business
- IOL News
South Africa grapples with crude oil supply risks as financial strain hits Natref refinery
The South African National Petroleum Company (SANPC) is the newly established State-Owned Company formed after the merger of three of the Central Energy Fund (CEF) subsidiaries, Igas, PetroSA and Strategic Fuel Fund. Image: Supplied Banele Ginidza As South Africa grapples with an increasing dependence on fuel imports, the National Petroleum Refiners of South Africa (NATREF) refinery in Sasolburg has raised alarm bells over its future sustainability. Sipho Mkhize, chairman of the South African National Petroleum Corporation (SANPC), on Friday outlined the financial strain faced by the only inland crude oil refinery, which is reliant on material transported via the Single Buoy Mooring (SBM) in the Indian Ocean off Durban. The backdrop to this crisis is the shutdown of Durban's local refineries, which has severely reduced SBM utilisation by 80%, leading to soaring operational costs for NATREF. Mkhize warned that if these financial pressures continue unabated, NATREF may have to cease operations, which would place an overwhelming burden on South Africa's petroleum supply chain "These financial strains could force the refinery to close, making South Africa dependent on imports to grow to 85% of its petroleum needs and increasing vulnerability and security of supply risks," Mkhize said. He was speaking at the launch of the SANPC, which has been formed through the merger of three Central Energy Fund (CEF) subsidiaries, i.e. iGas, the Strategic Fuel Fund (SFF), and PetroSA. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Currently, the nation imports around 75% of its fuel; a closure of the refinery could push this figure to a staggering 85%, significantly increasing the risk of supply vulnerabilities and security risks. In response, Mkhize disclosed plans for converting the existing SBM into a Multi-Buoy Mooring (MBM), which would enhance flexibility in liquid bulk handling within the Durban Precinct. This strategic move aims to alleviate the throughput bottlenecks currently crippling the NATREF refinery. Additionally, Mkhize stated that SANPC will seek directives to obtain leases for sites linked directly to the refinery from the Transnet National Port Authority (TNPA) to bolster operations further. Mkhize said the SANPC would reach out to the Ministers of Minerals and Petroleum Resources, Transport, and Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment for the applications aimed at laying a foundation for a national energy champion that will be capable of delivering long-term value. "SANPC is not just another company. It is a national asset. It is the embodiment of the government's vision for a modernised, integrated, and impactful energy sector player," he said. "South Africa needs a strong and agile energy company to be able to respond to the energy challenges faced by the country as well as advancing the key components of the National Development Plan." Mkhize also emphasised the importance of establishing a State-owned independent terminal operator, which would manage port facilities to ensure equal access to berths. This strategy aims to counteract the agenda of International Oil Companies (IOCs) and prioritise supply security, thereby enhancing system integrity. The SANPC's recent acquisition of the dormant SAPREF refinery, capable of producing 180 000 barrels of oil per day, signals a pivotal moment for South Africa's energy landscape. If revitalised, this facility could contribute significantly to national energy production or serve as the foundation for constructing a mega refinery with the capacity to process between 450 000 to 600 000 barrels daily. This shift would further diversify energy sources and reduce the country's reliance on imported oil. Mineral Resources and Petroleum Minister Gwede Mantashe reiterated the urgency of addressing the declining local refining capacity. He noted a significant shift since 2009, with fuel imports rising 11% year-on-year, predominantly driven by a diminishing local refinery output against a backdrop of growing demand for refined products. In 2022, local refining accounted for less than 35% of consumed finished products, a sharp decline from the approximately 80% in 2010.
The Star
26-05-2025
- Politics
- The Star
Separatists' sit-at-home protests lead to 700 deaths in Nigeria's southeast, report says
FILE PHOTO: Police officers are seen conducting checks on vehicles at the Federal High court in Abuja, Nigeria October 21, 2021. REUTERS/Afolabi Sotunde/File Photo LAGOS (Reuters) -A sit-at-home order by banned separatist group Indigenous People of Biafra in Nigeria's southeast has led to the death of over 700 people in the region over the past four years, an intelligence consultancy said in a new report. The IPOB, campaigning for the secession of the southeast that is predominantly inhabited by the Igbo ethnic group, has been labelled a terrorist organisation by Nigerian authorities. SBM Intelligence reported that the fatalities resulted from the killing of civilians who defied the weekly stay-at-home order every Monday and on other specific days, as well as from clashes between the IPOB and Nigerian security forces. "IPOB's enforcement tactics, including arson, looting and targeted assassinations, have created a climate of fear," the SBM report said. "While there was a high rate of compliance with sit-at-home orders in 2021 (82.61%), surveys reveal that actual support is much lower (29%) now, with many complying under duress." An IPOB spokesperson denied the group was responsible for the deaths. "Those causing the killings are the kidnappers and criminals recruited by government to blackmail and demonize IPOB," the spokesperson said. The government did not respond to a request for comment. The IPOB launched the sit-at-home protest in August 2021 across the five states of Nigeria's southeast, using it as leverage to demand the release of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, who is facing trial in the capital Abuja on terrorism charges. The group suspended the weekly protest days later, citing a "direct order" from Kanu, who has been in custody since 2021, and reinstated it only on days the IPOB leader would be appearing in court. However, other armed groups claiming allegiance to IPOB and factions within the group have persisted in enforcing the weekly protest, launching attacks on government facilities and perceived pro-government individuals. Despite IPOB's attempts to disassociate itself from the region's violence, the police have accused the group of involvement in several incidents, including a 2021 attack on a prison and the murder of over 30 travellers earlier this month. The IPOB denied responsibility for those two attacks. The SBM report added that beyond the deaths, the sit-at-home order, which suspends economic activities in the southeast every Monday and on days when Kanu appears in court, has resulted in economic losses surpassing 7.6 trillion naira ($4.79 billion). Civil war engulfed the restive Biafra region in the late 1960s, killing more than 1 million people. ($1 = 1,598.5100 naira) (Reporting by Ben Ezeamalu; editing by Mark Heinrich)
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Separatists' sit-at-home protests lead to 700 deaths in Nigeria's southeast, report says
By Ben Ezeamalu LAGOS (Reuters) -A sit-at-home order by banned separatist group Indigenous People of Biafra in Nigeria's southeast has led to the death of over 700 people in the region over the past four years, an intelligence consultancy said in a new report. The IPOB, campaigning for the secession of the southeast that is predominantly inhabited by the Igbo ethnic group, has been labelled a terrorist organisation by Nigerian authorities. SBM Intelligence reported that the fatalities resulted from the killing of civilians who defied the weekly stay-at-home order every Monday and on other specific days, as well as from clashes between the IPOB and Nigerian security forces. "IPOB's enforcement tactics, including arson, looting and targeted assassinations, have created a climate of fear," the SBM report said. "While there was a high rate of compliance with sit-at-home orders in 2021 (82.61%), surveys reveal that actual support is much lower (29%) now, with many complying under duress." An IPOB spokesperson denied the group was responsible for the deaths. "Those causing the killings are the kidnappers and criminals recruited by government to blackmail and demonize IPOB," the spokesperson said. The government did not respond to a request for comment. The IPOB launched the sit-at-home protest in August 2021 across the five states of Nigeria's southeast, using it as leverage to demand the release of its leader, Nnamdi Kanu, who is facing trial in the capital Abuja on terrorism charges. The group suspended the weekly protest days later, citing a "direct order" from Kanu, who has been in custody since 2021, and reinstated it only on days the IPOB leader would be appearing in court. However, other armed groups claiming allegiance to IPOB and factions within the group have persisted in enforcing the weekly protest, launching attacks on government facilities and perceived pro-government individuals. Despite IPOB's attempts to disassociate itself from the region's violence, the police have accused the group of involvement in several incidents, including a 2021 attack on a prison and the murder of over 30 travellers earlier this month. The IPOB denied responsibility for those two attacks. The SBM report added that beyond the deaths, the sit-at-home order, which suspends economic activities in the southeast every Monday and on days when Kanu appears in court, has resulted in economic losses surpassing 7.6 trillion naira ($4.79 billion). Civil war engulfed the restive Biafra region in the late 1960s, killing more than 1 million people. ($1 = 1,598.5100 naira)
Reuters
15-05-2025
- Business
- Reuters
SBM Offshore's first-quarter revenue marginally misses estimates
May 15 (Reuters) - Dutch oil and gas services firm SBM Offshore ( opens new tab on Thursday reported a higher first-quarter revenue, supported by its turnkey unit, although the results fell slightly short of market estimates. The Amsterdam-listed firm, which provides floating production services to the offshore energy industry, posted a quarterly directional revenue of $1.10 billion, below the $1.16 billion consensus, as quoted by brokerage Degroof Petercam. The company's shares were down 1.3%, as of 0845 GMT. SBM Offshore uses directional reporting, which recognizes revenue from payments received during the construction phase before lease contracts commence. When asked about potential tariffs, macroeconomic and geopolitical risks, CEO Oivind Tangen told Reuters that he doesn't see "the immediate sort of growth opportunities for SBM are impacted." "We don't trade in and out of the (United) States," he added. The CEO, however, flagged "constrained supply chains", partially due to growing power demand from AI. "There is an emerging demand for gas turbines, which are the similar type of gas turbines that we use," he said. The directional revenue for the turnkey segment, which builds and sells floating production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessels, surged 98%, driven by the FPSO GranMorgu and Jaguar vessels. The increase was supported by the 'sale and operate' model where clients make advance payments to accelerate construction before leasing the vessels. The directional lease and operate segment's quarterly revenue dropped 14% to $476 million due to the sale of two FPSO vessels in the fourth quarter. SBM still expects to return $1.7 billion to shareholders by 2030, it said. The company also maintained its full-year forecast.
