Taman Safari Indonesia introduces tropical wonders to Middle Eastern travellers

With a legacy spanning over four decades, Taman Safari Indonesia Group manages eight premier destinations: Taman Safari Bogor, The Grand Taman Safari Prigen (East Java), Taman Safari Bali, Marine Safari Bali, Solo Safari (Central Java), The Beach Safari Batang, Jakarta Aquarium & Safari, and Enchanting Valley. 

As one of the largest wildlife conservation and recreation institutions in Southeast Asia, Taman Safari Indonesia offers nature and wildlife experiences with Indonesian hospitality, and is highly sought-after by travellers from Oman and KSA, the group said. 

Taman Safari Bogor and Marine Safari Bali are among the most popular with Middle Eastern travellers. Nestled at the foothills of Mount Gede Pangrango, Taman Safari Bogor provides an open-range safari adventure within the cool tropical forest. Visitors can feed giraffes, observe animals from across continents, and take in tranquil mountain views. With halal dining options, prayer facilities, and family-friendly accommodations such as Safari Resort and Royal Safari Garden, Bogor stands as the perfect retreat for Muslim families seeking both relaxation and connection with nature.

Meanwhile, Marine Safari Bali combines the island's rich culture with exotic marine encounters. One of its newest attractions is Varuna, an underwater theatrical dining experience that fuses artistry, technology, and halal cuisine.

"We've observed a growing interest among travelers from Oman, Riyadh, and Jeddah in exploring Indonesia's natural and cultural heritage," said Alexander Zulkarnain, ACT CMO of Taman Safari Indonesia Group. 

"Through Taman Safari Bogor and Marine Safari Bali, we aim to create experiences that not only entertain but also enrich the soul and bring visitors closer to the wonders of wildlife." 

Center for Islamic Civilization preps for grand opening

Source: Center of Islamic Civilization website. Image of the centre.

Unique in the region, the Center for Islamic Civilization, whose opening is planned soon, is both a declaration of identity and an invitation to the world to see how the crossroads of Central Asia contributed to the formation of world civilisation. 

Conceived by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in 2017, the new cultural landmark of Tashkent has a mission to preserve, study, and share the intellectual and artistic heritage of Islamic civilization. During his most recent visit to the site, President Mirziyoyev reviewed the finishing touches and said: "This centre will serve our people for centuries, and each of its patterns will go down in history."  

President Mirziyoyev has also described the project as a cultural and spiritual initiative: "Through the Center for Islamic Civilization, we want to show that our sacred religion is a religion of goodness, humanism, and enlightenment." 

Speaking in September 2025 at the UN General Assembly, the president noted that by consistently pursuing a policy of tolerance in society, Uzbekistan will actively continue its efforts to study the ideas of Islamic enlightenment and promote them worldwide. He also announced that the Center for Islamic Civilization will soon open.

The Center for Islamic Civilization is located in the historic heart of Tashkent, next to the iconic Hazrati Imam. The US$200 M three-storey building measures 145 m by 115 m. 

The building's centrepiece is the Uthman Quran – one of the world's oldest Quranic manuscripts. The significance of the manuscript is reflected by its inclusion in UNESCO's Memory of the World Register, a global initiative to preserve and promote heritage and artifacts of global significance. Displayed in an octagonal hall beneath the building's 65m high central dome, it will set the tone for the entire museum – as a place of faith, scholarship, and enlightenment.

Four thematic galleries will surround this core: 

- Pre-Islamic Heritage: from Khwarezm and Bactria to Sogdiana and Chach (6th century BC), exploring urbanisation, metallurgy, and Zoroastrian traditions.

- The First Renaissance (8th–13th centuries): This space captures the golden age when outstanding and inspiring scholars such as al-Khwarizmi, al-Fergani, Ibn Sina, and al-Biruni transformed mathematics, astronomy, medicine, and philosophy. Their discoveries have helped future generations worldwide. 

Artifacts such as Abu Rayhan al-Biruni's globe are being reconstructed at the complex. "We know that Abu Rayhan (al-Biruni) once made a globe, but it has not survived to our time. However, the coordinates of this globe have been preserved in his works. Together with our international partners, we have now reconstructed this globe. In his writings, (he) provided the coordinates of 600 cities of his time and we have managed to include 150 of them in this reconstruction. Thus, we have been able to recreate the globe of Abu Rayhan Beruni, which was previously considered lost," disclosed the VP of the Academy of Sciences of Uzbekistan, Professor Bahrom Abduhalimov.

This gallery also reflects the role of hadith studies and Islamic theology in the development of the spiritual and intellectual life of the region. It was during this period that Imam al-Bukhari, Imam at-Tirmidhi, and other outstanding muhaddiths collected and systematised authentic hadiths of the Prophet Muhammad, laying the foundation of Islamic legal and ethical thought. 

Theologians and thinkers such as al-Maturidi developed kalam (عِلْمُ الْكَلَامِ), rational theology, harmoniously combining faith and reason. Their works contributed to the formation of a mature theological school that deeply influenced Islamic thought and remains relevant to this day. 

- The Second Renaissance (15th century): The subsequent Timurid era comes alive in a gallery recreating Ulugh Beg's observatory. Scholars and philosophers who made great discoveries in the history of civilisations are honoured. Digital projections will emphasise Samarkand's status as the intellectual capital of the Muslim world. 

- Modern New Uzbekistan is the foundation of a new Renaissance, combining heritage, the visionary reform programme of President Mirziyoyev, and a new strategic course for Uzbekistan, showcasing education, interfaith dialogue, and sustainable development. Here, history meets innovation, reflecting Uzbekistan's pioneering vision of a human-centred future.

The opening of the Center this autumn (roughly Q3-Q4) will mark the culmination of Uzbekistan's repatriation programme. This summer, fragments of 9th-century Kufic Qurans, Timurid ceramics, and original manuscripts by Ibn Sina and al-Biruni were returned from private European collections. Indian daggers, jade handles, rare Sogdian fabrics—which now form the largest collection of their kind in the world—as well as the largest collection of Central Asian coins globally, were also returned. This includes 21 fragments of fabric in various sizes, four complete caftans, and silver vessels crafted by Sogdian masters.

In May, a lost collection of Seljuk jewelry that was up for auction at Christie's was recovered from London. It included 35 items — rings, earrings, bracelets, chains and clasps. They will be displayed alongside Rumi's "Masnavi" miniatures, as well as personal clothing and weapons of the Baburids. Among them is Babur's own mantle, adorned with calligraphic inscriptions of Quranic verses.

"This step demonstrates the President's commitment to his words and promises, his consistent dedication to investing effort and attention in the development of education, science, and culture, creating new opportunities for international dialogue and cooperation," Firdavs Abdukhalikov, Director-General of the Center said. 

"This is a priceless contribution to the preservation and study of Uzbekistan's cultural heritage, which will inspire our people for centuries." 

The main museum covers about 15,000 sqm. The Center for Islamic Civilization will further house a research centre, library, restoration laboratories and a digital archive of 25,000 storage units, allowing scholars to conduct new research. 

A children's museum — the first in the region — will additionally bring history to life through "living portraits" of great thinkers. The portraits will be interactive, and able to answer visitors' questions.

Firdavs added: "The Center for Islamic Civilization (CIC) places Uzbekistan alongside the world's greatest cultural institutions. Like the Louvre in Paris, it will become a national symbol of pride and identity. Like the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, it will combine a museum and a major research complex. And like the Arab World Institute in Paris, it will present Islamic civilization as a dynamic force of creativity and dialogue. 

"But the CIC will be unique: it combines a museum, science, and innovative technologies, a library, and educational centers in a single space created in the heart of the Islamic world. It will inspire a new generation of researchers, scientists, and thinkers."  

Sara Noshadi, Head of the UNESCO Office in Uzbekistan shared that she has visited the Center several times, since 2022. "Seeing the tremendous progress and the pace of development over this period has brought me great joy," she said.

"It is truly gratifying to witness the Center entering a new phase of its activity, with new directions being opened. I believe this initiative represents an exceptional effort in Uzbekistan to integrate science, culture, and religious heritage."

World food day 2025: Bank DBS Indonesia goes for better foods and a better future

To mark World Food Day 2025, Bank DBS Indonesia worked with multiple partners to support national food security in line with this year's theme, Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future.

Head of Group Strategic Marketing & Communications PT Bank DBS Indonesia Mona Monika said, “The theme of Hand in Hand for Better Foods and a Better Future reflects the importance of collaboration in creating fair and sustainable access to food for all. As a bank committed to ESG principles, we want to act as a catalyst in strengthening the food supply chain, improving the welfare of farmers, driving the green economy in the agricultural sector, and increasing equitable access to nutritious food. This is the tangible manifestation of our sustainability pillar, Impact Beyond Banking.”

As part of its vision to be the Best Bank for a Better World, Bank DBS Indonesia believes that a sustainable food future can only be achieved through cross-sector collaboration between the financial sector, the government, businesses, communities, and the general public. Through various green financing initiatives, support for agritech startups, and social programmes held jointly with DBS Foundation, Bank DBS Indonesia plays an active role in building a resilient, inclusive, and competitive food system:

- The FEAST (Flores Empowerment for Agricultural Sustainability and Transformation) programme, held in collaboration with Yayasan Humanis dan Inovasi Sosial, equips farmers with climate-smart agricultural practices, financial literacy, and nutritional knowledge. A total of 40 village champions have been trained to assist 1,600 smallholder farmers (half of them women) in eight districts in Flores, Nusa Tenggara Timur (NTT). 

They take part in 50 climate field school sessions and test climate-smart agriculture methods in demonstration farm plots. Additionally, the programme provides nutrition education for 4,000 farming families to improve their knowledge and nutritional status. The programme will be expanded to all districts in Flores within the next 2-3 years.

- Green financing in the form of blended finance for Adena Coffee to nurture coffee farmers and increase coffee bean production in a sustainable manner, as well as to develop software to support compliance with the European Deforestation Regulation (EUDR). 

In addition, Adena Coffee will establish a Multipurpose Production and Training Centre by building new wet mill and fermentation facilities to train farmers in the proper application of wet processing and fermentation methods, ensuring consistent and high-quality yields; and conduct six capacity-building sessions for 500 small-scale coffee farmers in Gayo, Flores, Bali, and West Java.

- The Food Rescue Warrior programme, held in collaboration with FoodCycle Indonesia and DBS Foundation. From January 2024 to September 2025, the programme saved 1.36 million kg of surplus food from 155 partner hotels, restaurants, and plantations. Of the total, more than 600,000 kg was edible and packaged into more than 3 million food packages for 128,000 recipients. 

The programme succeeded in reducing the food insecurity rate from 77% to 36% in 17 months, according to a FoodCycle survey of a sample of recipients. Additionally, more than 700,000 kg of food waste were processed into animal feed and compost fertiliser at the urban farm developed under this programme. Education on the circular food system was also actively provided for the community at the urban farm to raise awareness about sustainable food security.

Food waste management is also very crucial for food sustainability.

- Magalarva, a social impact company and a recipient of the DBS Foundation Grant 2023, has made a significant impact on food waste management over the past two years. Food waste processing volume increased to nearly 3,000 tonnes per year, double the amount of the previous year. This has also reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 9,000 tonnes.

Founder & CEO Magalarva Rendria Labde said, “Since partnering with DBS Foundation, we have been able to accelerate the transformation of our waste management system. We have now increased our food waste processing capacity by 66%, improved efficiency through waste sorting units and a new operational fleet, and opened up export opportunities to more countries. The impact is being felt by both the environment and the economy.”

ESG stands for environmental, social, and governance.

UNESCO publishes research on AlUla’s documentary heritage

As part of the Memory of the World (MoW) Programme’s project to preserve documentary heritage in AlUla, implemented in partnership with the Royal Commission for AlUla, UNESCO has published a landmark academic study examining how AlUla’s unique documentary heritage fosters intercultural dialogue within the Arab Region and beyond.

AlUla has been a site of cultural exchange for millennia, as a continually-inhabited social and commercial hub, and as a gathering point along the historic pilgrimage route. In alignment with the region’s historic cultural revival under UNESCO’s partnership with the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU), the MoW Programme publication is a resource for the ways in which AlUla can serve as a blueprint for dialogue and a cross-cultural understanding of our shared history.

Source: UNESCO/Studio Ketchup Mayo, attribution 3.0 IGO (CC BY 3.0 IGO). AlUla community member (right) with UNESCO staff (left) in Jabal Ikmah, AlUla.

Dr Nour Allah Munawar's Documentary Heritage for Intercultural Dialogue: A Case Study of AlUla, Saudi Arabia explores the deep link between the ancient documentary heritage sprawling across the walls of AlUla’s mountains and its capacity to foster cross-cultural understanding, affirm cultural identity and serve as a powerful resource for dialogue among diverse communities. 

Situated along the historic incense route, AlUla is home to thousands of inscriptions in ancient languages that help trace the evolution of the Arabic alphabet. Its ‘open-air library’, Jabal Ikmah, contains the largest concentration of well-preserved Dadanitic and Lihyanite inscriptions found anywhere in the world, and in providing a gateway into ancient life by illuminating our understanding of the history of the Arabian Peninsula. 

Jabal Ikmah’s inscriptions have since entered UNESCO’s Memory of the World (MoW) International Register as an internationally significant item of documentary heritage.

Dr Munawar’s study places particular emphasis on the voices of AlUla’s local community, incorporating their perspectives through focus group discussions that achieved gender balance and included a majority of participants under the age of 35. 

The publication also incorporates insights of heritage professionals through in-depth interviews, merging international understanding with the wisdom of community custodians who have played a key role in enabling the identification and preservation of, as well as access to, AlUla’s documentary heritage.

The research explores and proposes the empowerment of community members as stewards and custodians of documentary heritage while recommending the integration of a documentary heritage education into formal pedagogical curricula across KSA, as well as informally through community engagement, public events, and cultural festivals to educate the general public.

The research also considers the harnessing of innovative technologies as crucial for using documentary heritage for intercultural dialogue. High-resolution 3D scanning and photogrammetry can digitally preserve fragile rock inscriptions and artefacts, especially those at risk from environmental decay, while virtual and augmented reality technologies can recreate historical documentary heritage sites to bridge distances and enable intercultural appreciation of documentary heritage.

For awareness and enhancing engagement with documentary heritage in the Arab region among both the general public and heritage professionals, the publication advocates for the promotion of knowledge production on documentary heritage in the region, including through initiatives for Arabic-language research, the translation of key documentary heritage and MoW Programme resources, the development of digital platforms, and other activities. 

Established in 1992, UNESCO’s MoW Programme helps safeguard documentary heritage throughout the world, facilitating its preservation, promoting access to it, and enabling awareness of its significance.

Indonesia Shariah Economic Festival 2025 increases exposure for startups, designers

The Indonesian National Committee of Sharia Economics and Finance (Komite Nasional Ekonomi dan Keuangan Syariah or KNEKS), together with the Department of Economy and Shariah Finance at Bank Indonesia (DEKS), have held a Halal Startup Demo Day (HSDD) as part of Indonesia Shariah Economic Festival (ISEF) 2025. ISEF is Indonesia's largest annual shari'ah economic and financial event. 

Themed Dare to Jumpstart Halal Industry With Ambition, HSDD 2025 brought 20 halal industry startups, investors, mentors, and stakeholders together.

Rp21 B has been set aside for selected startups. Potential business partners and committed investors include the Indonesian Muslim Entrepreneur Community (Komunitas Pengusaha Muslim Indonesia or KPMI), the Gaido Group, Equitree, PUM Netherlands, the Rahmania Foundation, HASAN Venture Capital, BTPN Syariah Venture Capital, and LBS Urun Dana. Other participants included the Indonesian Fintech Association (AFSI), the Venture Capital Association for Indonesian Startups (AMVESINDO), Gobi Partner, and World Startup.

"On behalf of Bank Indonesia, we express our highest appreciation and appreciation to the KNEKS and all parties participating in the implementation of this activity—from the organising partners, supporting institutions, to startups that today will showcase their work and innovation in the halal industry sector," said Yono, Deputy Director of Economics and Finance of Sharia at Bank Indonesia in a statement in Bahasa Indonesia*.

“In line with the great vision of Asta Cita Indonesia, Bank Indonesia is committed through this activity to supporting the acceleration of the national halal startup ecosystem in order to cement Indonesia as the world’s halal industry hub through matching innovators with investors, and opening wider access to Islamic financing. This activity is also a platform to strengthen the halal value chain and nurture superior startups that are ready to compete globally.”

“The Ministry of Industry is committed to supporting the growth of technology startups in the industry through the Startup for Industry programme. This programme is a forum for coaching and acceleration for startups to collaborate with the industrial sector, present technology-based solutions, and strengthen the national supply chain," said Dini Hangandari, Director of IKM, LMEA, Ministry of Industry.

The 20 startups came from a variety of sectors, including food and beverage, fashion, health, shari'ah finance, Muslim-friendly tourism, renewable energy, as well as media and recreation.

The Director of Business and Entrepreneurship of Sharia at KNEKS, Putu Rahwidiyasa, said that HSDD 2025 is an important part of KNEKS' commitment in driving the growth of the innovation-based sharia economy. “We want to help startups be ready to compete in the domestic and global markets by taking advantage of funding opportunities and a wider network,” he said.

HSDD 2025 is here to address the obstacles faced by many startups in obtaining adequate access to funding, networking, and business assistance. Through this activity, startups are expected to gain access to funding, guidance from experienced mentors, and expand the network with investors, buyers, and strategic partners. The programme also provides mentoring through the development of pitch decks.

Wahyu Wicaksono, Director of Applications, Ministry of Creative Economy, Indonesia, shared that the development of halal-based creative economic startups has been prioritised. "Through digital technology and creativity, startups can deliver halal products and services that are more inclusive, competitive, and have a broad economic impact,” he said. 

“Continuous collaboration between stakeholders — governments, financial institutions, investors, academia, and the entrepreneurial community. The hope is that this activity will give birth to a generation of halal startups that are innovative, competitive, and make a real contribution to the progress of the nation," said imbuh Irwansyah, Asdep Incubation And Digitalization of Entrepreneurial Deputy for Entrepreneurship, Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium sized Enterprises (MSMEs). 

"HSDD 2025 is expected to be a strategic meeting point that strengthens the synergy between stakeholders and opens up greater opportunities for halal startups in Indonesia," Putu added.

The Indonesia International Modest Fashion Festival (IN2MOTIONFEST) 2025, also part of ISEF 2025, showcased 1,785 modest fashion works, highlighting the richness of Indonesian wastra***.

Organised by the Indonesian Fashion Chamber (IFC) together with Bank Indonesia, IN2MOTIONFEST is committed to optimising the use of Indonesia's rich cultural diversity and wastra in sustainable modest fashion products. This approach aligns with the implementation of a green economy within the Indonesian modest fashion industry, positioning it as a strong player in the global market.

Themed One Vision, One Movement: Advancing Indonesia Modest Fashion Through Synergy & Collaboration the event emphasised collective action, cross-sector collaboration, and synergy among industry players to enable Indonesia's modest fashion to dominate the domestic market and compete globally.

A wide variety of wastra from across Indonesia—including batik, songket, ikat weaving, ATBM (non-machine weaving), lurik, tapis, sasirangan, jumputan (tie-dye), embroidery, knits, and ecoprints—were showcased in diverse modest fashion styles. These pieces were designed by members of IKRA (Indonesia Sharia Creative Industry), fashion brands, MSMEs, and fashion school students.

Source: IFC. The Grand Finale on Opening Day at IN2MOTIONFEST 2025. Models wearing Khanaan fashion.

IN2MOTIONFEST 2025 featured a fashion show and trade exhibition, presented modest fashion collections from 214 designers and brands, both local and international, along with 100 wastra artisans participating in the Wastra Business Matching programme. This year, IN2MOTIONFEST collaborated with 11 international designers from Thailand, Bangladesh, the Philippines, Malaysia, Turkey, Italy, Spain, Australia, and the UAE (Dubai).

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View catwalk videos from the at https://www.instagram.com/in2motionfest/?hl=en

*Parts of this content came from an e-translated press release and may be inaccurate as a result.

**Asta Cita refers to the eight aspirations conceived by Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto towards achieving the vision of a Golden Indonesia in 2045. The aspirations cover welfare, economic resilience, food and energy sovereignty, education and human resource development, and strong national defence.

***Wastra refers to traditional Indonesian textiles, such as batik and tenun ikat, which come with a rich cultural heritage, and are associated with complex symbolism and quality craftsmanship.

UAE citizens, residents now able to invest in treasury sukuk

The UAE has made shari'ah-compliant treasury sukuk (T-sukuk), which were previously available only to institutional investors, accessible to all citizens and residents in the UAE, the Emirates News Agency (WAM) has reported.

Retail Sukuk, a new initiative from the UAE Ministry of Finance (MoF), enables individual investors to invest in shari'ah-compliant, government-backed T-sukuk through fractionalised digital investment platforms operated by participating banks in the country.

The initiative seeks to promote financial inclusion and expand the investor base for government financial instruments by enabling citizens and residents to invest easily and securely in line with Islamic principles. It also seeks to stimulate long-term investment in T-sukuk as a secure and sustainable savings tool. 

Retail sukuk are denominated in AED and linked to government-backed T-sukuk already traded in the market and designated for institutional investors. Investments of AED4,000 and up are accepted.

HH Sheikh Maktoum bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, First Deputy Ruler of Dubai, Deputy PM and Minister of Finance of the UAE was quoted by WAM: “The Retail Sukuk initiative reflects the UAE’s vision and its leadership’s directives to empower the community and enhance participation in the national development journey through financial policies that prioritise human wellbeing. Launched within the framework of the Year of Community, the initiative opens new horizons for citizens and residents to contribute to shaping the future through secure, government-backed investment instruments.”

He added that the MoF seeks to "transform investment in government bonds into an accessible, comprehensive digital experience, enabling all segments of society to access high-quality financial instruments that were previously limited to institutional investors" with the initiative. "This represents a strategic step towards advancing financial inclusion and promoting a culture of long-term savings, ensuring the sustainability of the UAE’s financial resources and supporting development goals across various sectors,” he added.

Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, UAE Minister of State for Financial Affairs said: “The Retail Sukuk initiative represents a qualitative leap in the development of government investment instruments, enhancing individual participation in economic growth and providing a direct avenue to contribute to the national development journey. This initiative realises the Ministry of Finance’s vision of building an innovative financial environment that provides secure, sustainable investment solutions that benefit the entire community.”

He added, “The initiative aligns with the objectives of the Year of Community by promoting responsible saving habits and increasing financial awareness across all segments of society. It also reflects the spirit of partnership between the public and private sectors in fostering the values of giving and active economic participation, contributing to building a balanced, sustainable economy that serves future aspirations.”

Details

Investment in retail T-sukuk will be available through participating banks, with the name of the first bank to be announced on 3 November 2025. 

Development partnership for KSA's Ministry of Culture and Royal Commission for AlUla

The KSA Ministry of Culture (MoC) and the Royal Commission for AlUla (RCU) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Riyadh during the Cultural Investment Conference to strengthen cooperation in culture, heritage and development. 

Source: PRNewsfoto/Cultural Investment Conference. The agreement was signed by KSA Vice Minister of Culture Hamed Fayez (right) and RCU CEO Abeer AlAkel (left), marking a key step towards positioning AlUla as a global cultural destination.

HE Vice Minister of Culture Hamed Fayez affirmed that this agreement drives forward the partnership between the Ministry of Culture and RCU, paving the way to significantly enhance the presence of Saudi cultural identity in AlUla. He noted that AlUla seamlessly blends diverse natural landscapes with authentic heritage and thousands of years of history. It stands as an open-air museum and a powerful reflection of the human civilisations that have flourished across KSA land.

Abeer AlAkel, CEO of RCU, stated that the agreement significantly strengthens RCU's partnership with MoC and builds upon previous successes in areas of shared cultural interest. She added that this agreement represents a fundamental step for cultural development in AlUla, aligning with the cultural ambitions of Saudi Vision 2030, and will contribute to the integration of expertise and innovations at both national and global levels, empowering the cultural and knowledge-based economy. 

The agreement outlines broad areas of cooperation, underscoring the joint development of cultural infrastructure in AlUla. This includes long-term planning, addressing development needs, and implementing initiatives to ensure the continuity and sustainability of cultural activities across the arts and heritage sectors.

It also supports the coordination of cultural events, festivals and initiatives across a wide spectrum of disciplines, including heritage, cinema, music, museums, culinary arts, visual arts, architecture, design and libraries. The agreement encourages closer cooperation between cultural institutions and RCU to facilitate the exchange of expertise and enhance the quality and diversity of cultural content in AlUla.

In addition, the MoC and RCU will support the development of community-focused, educational and professional programmes aimed at nurturing talent and enabling broader participation in the cultural sector at local, national and international levels. The agreement also seeks to stimulate the cultural economy, attract investment into creative industries, and support cultural entrepreneurs in establishing ventures in AlUla, driving inclusive economic growth and generating high-value employment anchored in creativity and knowledge.

The MoC and RCU have a strong history of collaboration. Successful initiatives include the Wadi AlFann Dialogue, the AlUla Future Culture Summit and the 2023 AlUla World Archaeology Summit. The two entities have also jointly supported the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Project for the Development of Historical Mosques and have worked together to expand cultural programming across AlUla. The scope of the agreements extend to initiatives supporting the growth of public and private cultural schools in AlUla.

The Cultural Investment Conference highlights culture as both a pillar of national identity and a promising investment opportunity. The annual two-day event positions culture as a sustainable economic engine by supporting innovation, fostering entrepreneurship, while serving as a meeting point to exchange expertise, explore innovative financing tools, and build international partnerships that advance sustainable cultural investment and the growth of creative industries.

Korea Town plans to have 50 branches across the GCC before 2028

Source: Boutiqaat Group for Perfumes and Cosmetics. The Korea Town expansion is in collaboration with Boutiqaat.

Korea Town, the prime destination for Korean beauty in Kuwait and the wider Gulf, will be expanding regionally. The company aims to open 50 branches across the GCC by end-2027. The announcement comes as Korea Town officially joins forces with Boutiqaat Group for Perfumes and Cosmetics, a regional specialist in e-commerce and digital retail.

Operating under the Powered by Boutiqaat model, Korea Town is set to accelerate its growth by leveraging Boutiqaat's advanced infrastructure, logistics, and digital capabilities. The expansion amplifies Korea Town's long-term vision of becoming a cornerstone of the Gulf's beauty retail landscape — setting new benchmarks for growth, innovation, and consumer engagement.

The expansion aligns with the reveal of Korea Town's newly-redesigned branch at The Gate Mall in Kuwait, offering shoppers an elevated retail experience that blends innovation with authentic Korean beauty culture.

With a portfolio of over 250 Korean beauty brands, Korea Town continues to strengthen its position as the Gulf's go-to hub for K-beauty. Its extensive selection spans skincare, haircare,  cosmetics, accessories, and cutting-edge lifestyle trends.

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Send partnership enquiries to kt.distribution@boutiqaat.com

Global debut for three Malaysian Muslim-friendly lifestyle brands

Three Malaysian Muslim-friendly brands — NARA, CAMELLIA, and MZH — have made their global debut. 

Source: MZH Commerce. Three Muslim-friendly lifestyle brands, NARA, CAMELLIA and MZH, made their global debut in Malaysia at the Global Premiere Ceremony 2025: A New Era of Modest Elegance. From left: YM Raja Haniza, Founder of CAMELLIA; YM Tengku Khairul Adena, Founder of NARA; and Sophia, Founder of MZH.

Daniel Choong, CEO, MZH Commerce said: "These brands are a true celebration of entrepreneurship, creativity, and cultural pride. I am honoured to bring my business experience into cultivating meaningful brands, made even more special by the trust and support of their Highnesses. Together, we hope to place Malaysia on the global stage as a leader in modest lifestyle and fashion."

All three brands reflect the spirit of modest elegance:

NARA, founded by Yang Mulia (YM)* Tengku Khairul Adena, embodies timeless luxury and sophistication. With a focus on handbags and cosmetics, NARA blends heritage and modernity to create statement pieces. Inspired by YM Tengku Khairul Adena's vision to empower women with confidence and individuality, the brand celebrates elegance that is classic and contemporary.

CAMELLIA, founded by Yang Mulia Raja Haniza binti Raja Dato' Hanipuddin, was born from her lifelong fascination with beauty. As a teenager, she immersed herself in skincare and cosmetics, inspired by her family's premium beauty and health products. Today, CAMELLIA creates refined essentials for women seeking purity, confidence, and elegance.

MZH, the flagship brand, delivers products that combine quality, beauty, and design, reflecting a global expression of modest elegance. MZH brings together founder Sophia's passion for aesthetics and fashion, transforming heritage inspiration into lifestyle offerings. Sophia, a Hui ethnic Chinese Muslim and accomplished straw artwork artist, created an MZH portfolio that includes skincare, makeup, and fragrances. 

Sophia, Founder and Executive Director of MZH shared: "Meeting the princesses was a turning point — their grace, purity, and kindness deeply moved me and inspired the creation of these brands. My vision is to infuse faith and beauty into every detail, so that Muslims everywhere can enjoy the finest quality, the most beautiful designs, and the highest level of lifestyle experiences."

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Products from NARA, CAMELLIA, and MZH will be available through TikTok Shop in Malaysia. There are plans to expand internationally.

*The YM title is an honorific for members of the royal family. 

ALMAD Group set up to invest in projects that make a difference

Source: ALMAD Group. Key visual featuring a collage with the back of a man in black in two locations, and the brand logo superimposed on it. The structure at the top appears to be the Museum of the Future in Dubai.

Hong Kong-based ALMAD Group has gone live. The investment firm, founded by entrepreneur Dr Adrian Cheng, focuses on the digital space and emerging markets, including Mainland China, the ASEAN countries, the Middle East and beyond. Cheng, who is Founder and Executive Chairman, ALMAD Group, Executive Chairman of K11 by AC, and the Founder of K11, is no stranger to providing early-stage funding to empower technology startups. His successes include Xiaohongshu, XPeng Motors, and Micro Connect.

He said: “We are living in an era of profound change in the global economy, where new frontiers are emerging at an unprecedented pace. From ideation two years ago, we have been determined to build ALMAD Group as a movement propelling this shift, investing in transformative industries in emerging markets such as ASEAN and the Middle East, while advancing globally in digital assets and cultural industries.”

“Our mission is clear: to build what the next generation needs and to shape a future economy filled with possibilities.”

The group has three foci:

- Investing in transformative industries in emerging markets

- Breaking boundaries in digital and virtual assets

- Globalising the K11 by AC cultural ecosystem ALMAD Group's transformative industry priorities span culture, entertainment, sports, media, healthcare, commercial management and cultural tourism. These industries demonstrate strong commercial viability today, and also possess potential to shape the global economy and society in the next 20 years, the group said.

Cheng stated: “As ALMAD Group’s movement evolves, I look forward to unveiling more projects in the near future, showcasing the group’s commitment to transforming vision to action.”

ALMAD Group also aspires to lead in Web3 financial innovation, considering investments in digital asset, real-world asset (RWA) tokenisation and other emerging opportunities. Applications leveraging Blockchain technology and immersive digital experiences will also be explored.

Cheng launched K11, the world’s first cultural commerce model that integrates art, design, and retail, in 2008. His leadership has driven K11 projects such as Victoria Dockside, Hong Kong’s US$2.6 B global art and cultural district featuring K11 MUSEA.

ALMAD Group member K11 by AC’s core differentiation lies in its use of cultural content, co-creation of the brand experience, commercial management, and customer relationship management (CRM) capabilities targeting younger and more affluent demographics. The brand is redefining the cultural landscape by managing retail assets and art and cultural districts for a range of landlords.

K11 by AC’s Anime Intellectual Property (IP) business, Experience 11, is expanding in Mainland China and the Middle East. It curates experiences with leading anime IPs from around the world, leveraging its global art network and expertise. This segment strengthens the cultural ecosystem by capturing the 2D* or animation, comic, game and novel (ACGN) industries, which are highly popular across Gen Z and Gen Alpha market segments. K11 by AC is also scaling its Gentry Club business, a high-privacy luxury city club for cultural lovers themed around an artisanal lifestyle.

*2D or two-dimensional subculture refers to the animation, comics and game market.

Malaysia, Zetrix AI to build global standards for shari'ah-compliant AI

Source: Zetrix. Signing ceremony for the letter of intent between Zetrix AI and the Malaysian government via the PM's Department (Religious Affairs). Front row: Datuk Mohd Jimmy Wong Abdullah, Director of Zetrix AI (left) and Dato’ Dr Sirajuddin Suhaimee, Director General of Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM) (right). Back row, from left: witnesses YB Tuan Haji Mohd Fared bin Khalid, Chairman of the Johor State Islamic Religious Affairs Committee; YB Dato’ Haji Asman Shah bin Abd. Rahman, Secretary of the Johor State Government; YAB Dato’ Onn Hafiz bin Ghazi, Chief Minister of Johor; YAB Dato’ Seri Anwar bin Ibrahim, PM of Malaysia; and YB Senator Dato’ Setia Dr Haji Mohd Na’im bin Haji Mokhtar, Minister in the PM's Department (Religious Affairs).

Zetrix AI, developer of the world's first shari'ah-aligned large language model (LLM) NurAI and Malaysia's PM's Department (Religious Affairs) have signed a letter of intent (LoI) to collaborate on establishing a global framework for shari'ah compliance, certification and governance in AI. 

With the collaboration, Malaysia's Department of Islamic Development JAKIM, under the Ministry's leadership, will play a central role in guiding the certification, governance and ethical standards of NurAI, ensuring its alignment with Islamic principles.

Malaysia has consistently ranked first in the Global Islamic Economy Indicator, reflecting its leadership not only in halal certification but also in Islamic finance, food and education. JAKIM is internationally recognised as the gold standard in halal certification, accrediting foreign certification bodies across nearly 50 countries. By integrating emerging technologies such as AI and Blockchain to enhance compliance and monitoring, Malaysia continues to set holistic benchmarks for the global Islamic economy, Zetrix noted.

This milestone also underscores the need for an AI platform rooted in Islamic ethics, while positioning Malaysia as a global leader in ethical and shari'ah-compliant AI and a pioneer of international benchmarks. The initiative also reflects the country's halal and digitalisation agendas, ensuring AI remains trusted, secure, and representative of Muslim values while serving more than 2 billion people worldwide, Zetrix added.

At the ceremony PM YAB Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim reinforced that national policies should incorporate various inputs, including digitalisation and AI — and must always remain grounded in Islamic principles and values that deserve emphasis.

Through the LoI, Zetrix AI and the government via JAKIM propose to collaborate in three key areas:

- Shari'ah certification and governance: Developing frameworks, ethical guidelines and certification standards for AI systems rooted in Islamic principles. 

- Global advocacy and promotion: Positioning Malaysia as the global centre of excellence for Islamic AI and championing the global Islamic digital economy, at US$5.74 T by 2030.

- JAKIM's official channel on NurAI: Creating a trusted platform for Islamic legal rulings, halal certification and verified shari'ah guidance, combating misinformation through AI. 

NurAI is developed in Malaysia, supporting Bahasa Melayu, English, Indonesian and Arabic. It complies with national data sovereignty and cybersecurity policies, reducing reliance on foreign tools while ensuring AI knowledge stays local, trusted, and secure.

Explore

Download NurAI at nur-ai.zetrix.com

CoCo Bubble Tea enters the Middle East with a Jordan store

CoCo Bubble Tea is debuting in the Middle East with an outlet in Amman, Jordan. The new store utilises halal-certified ingredients, and debuts a curated menu designed to simplify ordering while maintaining the brand's hallmark quality. 

The move marks the beginning of CoCo's commitment to serving consumers and supporting franchise partners across the Middle East in the long-term. 

The company is also looking for franchisees, and believes the simplified menu is partner-friendly. CoCo's halal-certified raw materials will empower store partners to localise and cater to the region's specific needs, the company said.

With more than a decade of global experience, CoCo offers franchise partners not only the visibility of its brand but also extensive support for marketing, operations, on-site consulting, and region-specific training. Its focus on research and development further ensures the ability to adapt products to evolving consumer preferences worldwide, the company said.

To support franchisees in the Middle East, CoCo has developed a custom training and operations framework designed specifically for the region. The framework simplifies onboarding, strengthens operational efficiency, and helps partners integrate seamlessly into CoCo's global standards while staying rooted in local cultural preferences.

"We are just beginning in the Middle East, but we aspire to one day have as robust a franchise network here as we do globally," said Kody Wong, Director of Business Development at CoCo Bubble Tea.

 "To accomplish this, we will continue our hallmark approach of adapting to local culture and tastes while empowering our partners with the resources they need for long-term success. This opening is about serving delicious bubble tea while building a unique franchise ecosystem that moves the region's business leaders forward."

CoCo plans to build a regional footprint, and has shared that it will enter the UAE.

Source: CoCo Bubble Tea. CoCo Bubble Tea Amman Jordan store facade.

Explore 

For franchising opportunities, visit: https://www.coco-tea.com/Franchise

An invitation to journey in the Prophet's footsteps

KSA's cultural legacy allows the kingdom to offer travellers some of the richest and most meaningful experiences on earth.

Source: Ala Khotah website. Key details for the trail.

One such experience is launching in November 2025, reflecting the kingdom's deep commitment to the two holy cities, as part of its care for the Two Holy Mosques and the guests of Allah. Ala Khotah, meaning In the Prophet’s Footsteps, brings to life the hijrah (الهجرة) or migration of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and his companion Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq.  

Through this initiative, travellers will have the opportunity to experience their journey from Makkah to Madinah themselves. The 470 km trail passes through 59 historical and enrichment stations, 41 historical landmarks and five key event locations. Key experiences  include visits to historical sites, camel riding, cultural workshops, as well as event reenactments using augmented reality. 

For Indonesian travellers, visiting KSA is now more accessible. Holders of a valid UK, US, or Schengen visa, complete with an entry stamp from the issuing country, can apply for an e-visa or visa on arrival. Umrah pilgrims can explore beyond the holy cities as well.

Details

Register your interest at https://alakhutah.com/