Vietnam has 33 new national treasures

Vietnam has designated 33 new national treasures in 2024, bringing the total to 270. The newly declared treasures are the Hoang De Chi Bao imperial seal (Minh Mang era, 1823), Dak Son lithophones (3,500-3,000 years old), and Truc Lam Tam To statues (19th century). Other notable items include Dong Son drums, Cham sculptures in Danang, and one of the cars used by President Ho Chi Minh, now preserved in his memorial relic in Hanoi.

Campaign helps more than 1.2 million disadvantaged people

The "Send Gifts, Share Tet" campaign aims to help more than 1.2 million disadvantaged people, including those affected by the storms in northern Vietnam. It enables donations via QR codes at WINMART and Saigon Co.op stores nationwide. Activities include running events and "Tet Markets" that provide basic necessities to those in need, promoting unity and compassion.

Donations can be made by bank transfer to the Vietnam Red Cross Society account. Photo: Vietnam Red Cross Society.

VNeTraffic becomes Vietnam's most downloaded app

VNeTraffic, developed by the Ministry of Public Security, is now Vietnam's most downloaded app on iOS and has over 50,000 Android downloads. It allows users to check traffic violations, including fines, time, location and pictures. Its popularity has soared following the introduction of stricter penalties under Decree 168, which came into effect on January 1, 2025 imposing heavier fines.

Vietnam football team departs for ASEAN Cup final

The Vietnam national football team departed for Thailand on January 3 for the second leg of the 2024 ASEAN Cup final. The team holds a 2-1 advantage after winning the first leg with a double from Nguyen Xuan Son. Led by coach Kim Sang-sik, Vietnam will be looking to secure their third title with a draw at Bangkok's Rajamangala Stadium on January 5.

Vietnam's national team get an edge ahead of the second leg in Thailand. Photo: Hoang Tung/Tuoitre.vn.

Ton Duc Thang Museum opens in Ho Chi Minh City

The Ton Duc Thang Museum in Ho Chi Minh City officially opened on January 3. The 6,021-square-meter facility features four floors of interactive exhibits and themed displays honoring the legacy of President Ton Duc Thang. With modern design and innovative presentations, it aims to engage visitors, especially young people, while serving as a hub for cultural activities, research, and community interaction.

Concert to ring in the New Year with timeless music

The Ho Chi Minh City Ballet Symphony Orchestra and Opera (HBSO) presents the "New Year Concert 2025" on January 4 at 8 pm at the Municipal Theater. The program features timeless works by Strauss, Tchaikovsky and Suppé, performed by renowned artists and the HBSO Choir and Orchestra, offering an inspiring musical journey to welcome the New Year.