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On September 11, the Overseas Chinese Health and Wellness Center in Quanzhou officially opened its doors, welcoming over 40 participants from nearly 30 countries and regions. This event marked a significant step in catering to the needs of the overseas Chinese community.

Among the inaugural group were prominent leaders and key figures from the Chinese communities in the Philippines, Malaysia, Thailand, and beyond, who participated in the first session of the “Gathering Overseas Chinese, World Heritage, and Silk Road Together” training program for overseas Chinese leaders hailing from Quanzhou. They also attended the 2024 Quanzhou Overseas Community Liaison Mechanism Meeting and witnessed the launch of a judges’ workshop aimed at protecting the rights of overseas Chinese, showcasing the innovative initiatives their hometown is undertaking to support its diaspora.

Quanzhou stands out as a major hometown for overseas Chinese, with around 9.5 million residents originating from this region, dispersed across over 170 countries. This figure constitutes nearly two-thirds of all overseas Chinese from Fujian Province, emphasizing Quanzhou’s leadership among Chinese cities, earning the moniker that “nine out of ten households are overseas Chinese.” To foster belonging and satisfaction among these overseas citizens, and to capitalize on its status as a city of world heritage, the Quanzhou Overseas Chinese Federation has founded the Overseas Chinese Health and Wellness Center.

Luo Gang, chairman of the Quanzhou Taiwan Business Investment Zone’s Overseas Chinese Federation and honorary president of the Hong Kong Quanzhou Association, underscored the necessity of addressing the unique needs of overseas Chinese. “In recent years, there has been a growing interest in traditional Chinese medicine abroad, and Quanzhou is a treasure trove of TCM resources, boasting many revered physicians throughout history who are highly regarded in overseas communities,” he explained.

The newly established Overseas Chinese Health and Wellness Center brings together resources from various platforms, including Quanzhou Yihe Hospital and the Quanzhou Baxian Guohai Tourist Resort. It combines TCM-based therapies and wellness philosophies while offering a broad range of services that encompass healthcare, tourism, culture, and leisure, all designed to provide a holistic and enriching wellness experience for overseas Chinese.

Reflecting on his time there, Xu Shaotang, an executive committee member of the United Filipino Chinese Association and a participant in the inaugural group, shared, “Today’s experience truly highlighted the respect and hospitality my hometown extends to overseas Chinese. I also deepened my appreciation for the rich culture of traditional Chinese medicine. The wellness center is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and offers notably attentive and patient service.” As a tourism professional in the Philippines, he found this visit to be a significant reconnection to his roots.

As Hurricane Milton neared Florida, it experienced changes in intensity before making landfall as a Category 3 storm. In an interview, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis commented, “It will continue to move across central Florida throughout the night and into the early morning hours.”

Maggie Smith, the beloved actress known for her portrayal of the stern yet affectionate Professor Minerva McGonagall in the “Harry Potter” film series, passed away peacefully on September 27 at a hospital in London. She was 89 years old.

In a heartfelt announcement, her two sons conveyed their sorrow, stating, “We are heartbroken to share that Dame Maggie Smith passed away peacefully in the early hours of Friday, September 27.”

They emphasized her commitment to privacy, sharing that “She was a highly private person and had close friends and family by her side in her final moments.” Smith leaves behind her two sons and five adoring grandchildren, all of whom are mourning the loss of their extraordinary mother and grandmother.

Widely regarded as one of the finest actresses in the UK, Smith’s career spanned nearly 75 years, beginning in the 1950s. During her illustrious journey, she graced over 60 films and 70 stage productions.

Her remarkable achievements include two Academy Awards, four Emmy Awards, and a Tony Award, making her one of the rare actors to achieve this prestigious triple crown.

For many millennials, Smith’s legacy is most vividly tied to her iconic role as Professor McGonagall in the “Harry Potter” franchise. Additionally, she received significant praise for her role in the celebrated British period drama “Downton Abbey,” both in its television series and film adaptations, which helped her cultivate a vast fanbase, particularly in the United States.

On September 16, 2024, the China International Fair for Trade in Services (CIFTIS) wrapped up in Beijing, with the health and medical services segment running from September 12 to 16 under the ongoing theme “Global Services, Shared Health.”

This year’s event showcased participation from 89 prominent companies and specialized medical service institutions across a variety of sectors, such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, innovative research, digital healthcare, and health management. The exhibition adopted a hybrid format, highlighting advanced technologies, products, equipment, and comprehensive medical service solutions throughout the entire healthcare cycle, from prevention and diagnosis to treatment and rehabilitation.

Organized by the Beijing Municipal Health Commission and backed by the academic support of the China Hospital Association, this year’s exhibition achieved a remarkable 100% participation rate, with an overall internationalization rate of 33.3%. Notably, 35.96% of participating entities hailed from the Fortune Global 500 and other industry-leading firms, setting multiple records in the process.

The event featured impressive displays, including contributions from 20 national medical centers, pilot hospitals dedicated to advancing public health, and technology industrial parks. Institutions such as Hong Kong University Shenzhen Hospital, the Beijing Center for Disease Control and Prevention, and notable hospitals showcased cutting-edge medical research and the application of new technologies.

One standout attraction was the AI-based emotional assessment system featured at the Beijing Anding Hospital exhibit, which gathered considerable interest from attendees through hands-on experiences. According to the staff on site, this system leverages AI and brain-computer interface technology to deliver precise readings of brain signals, enabling users to complete a comprehensive mental health assessment in just three minutes.

Developed using proprietary high-precision EEG and HRV collection technologies, this system is designed to be portable, quick, and cost-effective for a range of applications—including use in educational institutions, social mental health services, rehabilitation centers, and home settings. It effectively monitors mental health across various age groups and provides objective evaluations.

Beijing Anding Hospital also spotlighted other innovative projects, such as an EEG clinical characterization system and new treatment technologies targeting depression through gut microbiomes, signaling significant progress in the mental health landscape during the fair.

At the Beijing Anzhen Hospital exhibit, numerous innovations in cardiovascular devices drew attention, showcasing a vascular flow meter, intraoperative brain protection devices for cardiac procedures, cardiac stabilizers, new neurointerventional catheters, targeted drug delivery systems for atherosclerosis, minimally invasive coronary bypass tools, and a pioneering liquid-helium-free atomic magnetometer for cardiac magnetic field imaging.

During CIFTIS, Beijing Anzhen Hospital forged important collaborations with various tech firms, including agreements for joint medical laboratories focused on ventricular assist device therapy and AI-based simulation research for heart failure support. These partnerships aim to accelerate the implementation of innovations such as multi-channel intraoperative coordination and quality control robotic systems, thus energizing the high-quality development of the medical and health industry.

On October 6th, the Busan International Film Festival kicked off the Asian premiere of Jia Zhangke’s latest film, “A Generation of Excess,” starring Zhao Tao in the lead role. During a press conference that day, both Jia and Zhao shared their thoughts and experiences related to the film.

Looking back on the film’s evolution since its start in 2001, Jia noted, “We began filming without a specific direction, using digital cameras, and gradually honed our approach, ultimately crafting a love story that spans over two decades.” He discussed the film’s innovative creative process, saying, “We built the film’s structure from images, which brings me immense joy compared to the traditional script-based method. Film, at its core, has always been about visual storytelling.”

Jia also emphasized the importance of this era of production, pointing out that it exists at a key intersection of rapid technological advancement and the rise of artificial intelligence. “Completing this film feels like capturing a fascinating moment,” he stated. “We are straddling the past while stepping into a new era. This transitional period, though fleeting, is incredibly captivating.”

During the press conference, moderated by Park Do-sin, Vice Executive Chairman of the Busan International Film Festival, Zhao commented on the recurring female character “Qiaoqiao” in Jia’s works. “For me, each character with that name represents distinct stories and life experiences,” she explained. Zhao also identified the absence of dialogue as her biggest challenge in this film, stressing the need for subtlety in portraying the characters’ intricate emotions over two decades.

Additionally, Jia elaborated on Zhao’s character’s lack of dialogue throughout the film, noting that the significant societal changes over twenty years render words inadequate. “In this film, Qiaoqiao primarily engages with the world around her through her eyes, inviting the audience to experience the transformations of the past years. I want this to be an immersive way for viewers to navigate their understanding of our world,” he explained, urging audiences to pay attention to the film’s visuals and ambient sounds.

“A Generation of Excess” has been selected for the Gala Presentation section of this year’s Busan International Film Festival, marking Jia’s return to the festival since the premiere of his film “Swimming to Sea Change” in 2020. “Busan is where my film career began,” Jia reflected during the press conference, reminiscing about his first participation in the festival with his debut film, “Xiaowu,” in 1998.

During the National Day holiday, the news that the government cafeteria in Quzhou, Zhejiang province, opened its doors to the public quickly caught people’s attention. Utilizing a menu-ordering system, this cafeteria offers dishes that showcase the unique flavors of Quzhou’s famed “Hundred Counties and Thousand Bowls,” with the goal of providing safe and high-quality dining options for both citizens and tourists.

In recent years, Quzhou has emerged as a culinary hotspot in the Yangtze River Delta, drawing food enthusiasts eager to savor its spicy and delicious fare. However, the charm of Quzhou extends beyond its breathtaking landscapes and mouthwatering cuisine; it reflects the city’s hospitality and warm welcome to visitors—perfectly embodying the saying, “Isn’t it a joy to have friends come from afar?”

Many visitors chose Quzhou as their destination during the National Day holiday, making the government cafeteria a must-visit spot. Li Yiyi, a young woman from Jiaxing, shared her experience: “Just after 11 AM, the restaurant was packed. For only 18 yuan, we got a meat dish, a half-meat dish, and a vegetarian dish. I made sure to try the local specialties like ‘three heads and one palm’ and the Jiangshan Twenty-Eight DoFu, which were authentic and reasonably priced.”

Quzhou isn’t the only city pursuing this initiative. Many government cafeterias across China are opening their doors to the public. Cities like Yangzhou in Jiangsu, Jingdezhen in Jiangxi, and Yuhang in Hangzhou, Zhejiang, have experimented with similar programs during holidays, receiving positive feedback from their communities.

This shift from high-walled government buildings to the now trendy “internet celebrity cafeterias” reflects a desire to connect with the public. What does this change signify in terms of flavor?

First, there’s a taste of accessibility. Back in 2019, Quzhou launched the “Demolish Walls, Open Green Spaces” campaign to create shared areas and bring more greenery to the community. By removing physical barriers, they’ve also broken down the metaphorical “walls” between the government and its citizens, resulting in a stronger community and closer relationships.

Next is the focus on convenience. Urban areas often struggle with parking, and in response, the Quzhou municipal government has opened idle parking lots for public use during weekends and holidays. This not only makes efficient use of resources but also fosters stronger connections with citizens and visitors.

Finally, there’s a strong emphasis on public benefit. By opening government cafeterias during holidays and serving affordable local dishes, Quzhou truly embodies the essence of public service. This commitment to its people illustrates that government institutions can also serve as cultural symbols, nurturing shared experiences and providing emotional value for both citizens and tourists, ultimately enhancing the city’s profile.

The phrase “my door is always open” stands as more than mere words; it symbolizes a city’s genuine goodwill and sincerity towards its community.

In a recent interview, we explored the ongoing legal issues faced by Ippei Mizuhara, formerly the personal interpreter for Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Angels. Mizuhara has been charged with bank fraud and other offenses, and his sentencing, which was originally scheduled for October 25, has now been pushed back to December.

Reports from NHK indicate that Mizuhara has struck a plea agreement with prosecutors, suggesting that his potential sentence may be less than the maximum of 33 years in prison. Since parting ways with Mizuhara, Ohtani has continued to set records with the Angels. In a recent match against the Colorado Rockies, he delivered an impressive performance with 5 hits in 4 at-bats, along with 2 stolen bases, boosting his season totals to “53 home runs and 55 stolen bases.”

Earlier this season, allegations emerged that Mizuhara had transferred nearly $17 million from Ohtani’s bank account to gambling syndicates, leading to charges of bank fraud and tax evasion from U.S. authorities.

During a plea hearing in June, Mizuhara admitted to the charges against him. However, court documents reveal that his defense team has requested a rescheduling of the sentencing to December 20, citing delays in securing a forensic psychiatric evaluation and report on his gambling behavior.

On October 7th, Fuji TV reported that former Empress Michiko of Japan experienced a fall at the Akasaka Imperial Estate in Tokyo, but details regarding her injuries remain unclear.

According to the report, the 89-year-old former empress, who now resides at the Sento Imperial Palace following her husband’s abdication, fell in the morning. She was taken to Tokyo University Hospital that afternoon for precautionary examinations. It’s worth noting that she had contracted COVID-19 in June, but fortunately, her symptoms were mild, and she has since made a full recovery. Former Emperor Akihito was not infected during that time.

During a recent interview at the “Thousand Forms, Hundred Recipes” Medical Institution Formulation Transformation Roadshow held in Jinhua, Pan’an, from September 29 to 30, we had the opportunity to speak with several key participants about the future of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) in research and development.

Xu Xuqing, Deputy Director of the Zhejiang Provincial Health Commission, emphasized the benefits of TCM formulations, highlighting their broad efficacy, affordability, and enhanced safety. He pointed out that these formulations are becoming increasingly vital as supplements to commercial pharmaceuticals, especially in times of public health crises. “During emergencies, TCM formulations often take center stage because they are simple, convenient, effective, and economical. These characteristics have gained significant recognition and preference among the public,” Xu stated.

Launched in March 2022, the “Thousand Forms, Hundred Recipes” initiative aims to boost TCM formulation development and expertise at the grassroots level. This project unites various stakeholders, including the Zhejiang Provincial Drug Administration and the Technology Department, to establish policies that ease the registration and insurance pricing for TCM formulations. To date, 48 traditional process filings have received regulatory approval, and one medical institution has obtained a new license.

Dr. Gao Xiangfu, President of the Zhejiang Provincial Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, discussed the project’s role in fostering collaboration with private companies. “Our hospital recently entered into two transformation agreements with businesses totaling 11 million yuan. With research outputs expected to surpass 50 million yuan by 2024, it’s clear that the demand for innovative formulations—like the highly sought-after Ume Su 2.0—is driving this expansion,” he explained.

He noted the significance of translating research into concrete benefits for hospital staff, saying, “The strength of knowledge is evident in our research results. We encourage our employees to innovate by sharing 80% of the profits with the teams that generate those results.”

Luan Jianlong, Party Secretary of Nanjing District Traditional Chinese Medicine Hospital, expressed pride in the new TCM formulations rolled out in the past year. “Our hospital has introduced eight new internal preparations, including Ke Ping Granules and Gout Capsules. These popular remedies not only benefit our patients but also made a substantial impact when we presented them at the inaugural Traditional Chinese Medicine Cultural Night Market in Nanjing Ancient Town.”

Currently, over 60 types of TCM formulations are in active use at more than 40 grassroots healthcare facilities in Zhejiang, with a total trading volume surpassing 20 million yuan in 2023.

As the conversation wrapped up, Xu Xuqing shared a forward-thinking vision for TCM, urging the development of a system for innovative TCM scientific research and transformation that aligns with clinical needs, ultimately leading to novel TCM drugs. “We need to enhance the application of our research findings and establish a robust framework for transforming TCM scientific achievements and formulations to facilitate clinical applications of innovative TCM solutions,” he concluded.

The event also featured the unveiling of the “2023 Zhejiang Province Medical Institutions TCM Formulation Development Report,” along with various rankings related to TCM formulation metrics.

Recent reports from South Korean media have brought to light North Korean leader Kim Jong-un’s striking declaration that China is now regarded as a “mortal enemy.” According to these reports, Kim has instructed North Korean diplomats stationed in China to “not be beholden to China’s whims.” This sudden shift may be linked to China’s recent crackdown on North Korean smuggling, which has even included the confiscation of items personally utilized by Kim.

An exclusive piece published on September 20 by the South Korean newspaper Joongang Ilbo revealed signs of heightened tension between North Korea and China. Several insiders from North Korea conveyed that Kim Jong-un has amplified his criticisms of China, clearly labeling it as a “mortal enemy.”

Interestingly, back in July, Kim had already directed North Korean diplomats to dismiss China’s opinions. While the exact reasons behind Kim’s harsh designation of “mortal enemy” remain somewhat ambiguous, it seems to reflect a growing dissatisfaction with China. Reports suggest that China has intensified its efforts to tackle North Korean smuggling, including seizing items owned by Kim and refusing to return them.

The coverage has noted that North Korea has been vocally expressing its displeasure with China, which was made apparent by its absence of diplomatic representation at official Chinese events attended by South Korea and other significant countries. For instance, a source revealed that North Korea’s military attaché was absent from a July 31 celebration in Beijing hosted by the Chinese Ministry of Defense in honor of the 97th anniversary of the People’s Liberation Army.

As per Joongang Ilbo’s findings, the Chinese government had extended invitations to North Korea as well as military attachés from other nations, including South Korea. Yet, despite being an ally, North Korea opted not to send any representatives.

Moreover, it has been reported that North Korean diplomatic staff were also barred from participating in anniversary celebrations for the Chinese military held at various Chinese embassies abroad.

Historically, Kim Jong-un has had a complex view of China as a “mortal enemy.” Han Gi-beom, a guest research fellow at the Asan Institute for Policy Studies and former chief of South Korea’s National Intelligence Service, highlighted in a report earlier this year that while Kim sees the U.S. and Japan as long-standing adversaries, he views China as a foe for over 5,000 years.

Sources indicate that Kim has emphasized North Korea’s ability to survive independently from China, asserting that “we won’t make any concessions, even on small matters.” Han noted that since Xi Jinping assumed the presidency in 2012, he made a state visit to South Korea before visiting North Korea—a move that Kim interpreted as a betrayal.