Artificial intelligence models could soon copy themselves across vulnerable internet-connected devices without human assistance, Anthropic has warned, raising concerns about a new category of decentralised cybersecurity threat. Research published on Monday by the company’s Frontier Red Team suggests smaller AI systems may acquire the capabilities needed for autonomous replication within months. Such systems could operate on ordinary consumer electronics rather than depend on expensive data-centre infrastructure, complicating […]
By Nitya Chakraborty An analytical article recently published in The Wall Street Journal on the latest trends in Chinese economy has led to an intensive discussions among the think tank and the Communist Party leadership in China. Finally the official position is that China is happy to remain as a developing country as a part […]
Dubai’s government and business leaders examined infrastructure investments, technology and economic priorities at the Mohammed bin Rashid Leadership Forum on Tuesday, outlining opportunities for cooperation across the emirate’s principal growth sectors. The gathering at Dubai World Trade Centre brought together 1,000 public and private sector leaders and specialists. Organised by the Mohammed bin Rashid Centre for Leadership Development, it covered aviation, trade, finance, tourism, property and urban […]
The only vendor in the Pace Setters quadrant and the only Asia-based vendor in the report. CyCraft marks its third major international recognition of 2026
TAIPEI, TAIWAN – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2026 – CyCraft Technology (TWSE: 7823), an AI-native cybersecurity company, today announced that it has been positioned in the Pace Setters quadrant of the Gartner Emerging Market Quadrant for AI Application Security, Startup Vendors, published on September 16, 2026. CyCraft Technology is the only vendor in the Pace Setters quadrant and the only Asia-based vendor in the report.
XecGuard offers a range of modules that can be tailored to enterprise needs, including General Prompt Attack Protection, System Prompt Enforcement, and Harmful Content Protection.
When AI Goes Off-Script, Defense Must Move at Machine Speed
Enterprises are handing AI agents real authority: reading email, querying databases, approving transactions, changing system configurations. Attackers are using AI too. They probe AI applications with thousands of prompt variations in minutes, adapt to every refusal, and look for the one input that turns a trusted agent into an insider. Prompt injection, sensitive data exposure, and agents exceeding their permissions are no longer edge cases. They are becoming everyday incidents.
Human-speed review cannot keep up with machine-speed attacks. Every organization deploying AI now faces two questions: has this system been tested against an adaptive attacker before launch, and can anything stop it in real time once it goes live?
“AI behaving outside its intended boundaries is fast becoming the norm, not the exception,” said Dr. Benson Wu, CEO and Co-Founder of CyCraft. “When agents act on their own and adversaries use AI to attack them, defense has to run at the same speed. Every decision an agent makes must be testable before launch, interceptable in production, and traceable afterward. That is why we built XecART and XecGuard on our own models from day one. We believe being named the only Pace Setter reflects both the strength of our technology and our ability to deliver it in real enterprise environments.”
Test Before Launch. Protect in Production.
CyCraft’s AI application security portfolio covers both pillars of AI defense.
XecART, CyCraft’s AI Red Teaming Security Assessment, attacks AI applications and agents the way a real adversary would. It runs multi-round adaptive tests, shifts tactics based on each response, and delivers resilience reports aligned with international standards, so teams know where their AI breaks before attackers find out.
XecGuard is a real-time guardrail for LLMs and AI agents. Instead of static keyword filters that attackers learn to evade, it is built around each enterprise’s own security context. It reads the intent behind every prompt and response, and blocks malicious or abnormal activity as it happens.
Both products draw on CyCraft’s native expertise in Chinese and Japanese and on regional threat intelligence, catching attack patterns that general-purpose models routinely miss.
CyCraft believes security is not a brake on AI innovation; it is what lets AI move fast without losing control. Organizations deploying AI applications or agents can request an XecART assessment or a XecGuard evaluation at https://www.cycraft.com/en/contact-us.
Gartner®, Emerging Market Quadrant for AI Application Security — Startup Vendors, Meghan Hollis et al., 16 September 2026.
Gartner®, Emerging Tech: AI Vendor Race: Reasoning Models Reshape Providers’ Approaches to AI Pricing, Aapo Markkanen et al., 5 June 2026.
Disclaimer
Gartner does not endorse any company, vendor, product or service depicted in its publications, and does not advise technology users to select only those vendors with the highest ratings or other designation. Gartner publications consist of the opinions of Gartner’s business and technology insights organization and should not be construed as statements of fact. Gartner disclaims all warranties, expressed or implied, with respect to this publication, including any warranties of merchantability or fitness for a particular purpose. GARTNER is a trademark of Gartner, Inc. and its affiliates.
Hashtag: #CyCraftTechnology
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 October 2026 – On October 13, the CICC Global Institute (CGI) held its 2026Q4 Macro Forum in Bangkok, Thailand, under the theme “China’s Economy amid Global Rebalancing: New Paradigms and New Industries”. The forum featured welcome remarks, keynote speeches, two thematic dialogues and an evening discussion session.
Yanliang Miao, Chief Economist and Senior Managing Director of CICC, shared his insights on China’s economic transformation and the evolving international monetary order in his opening remarks and keynote speech. He noted that understanding China requires a global rebalancing perspective, considering both the dynamism of emerging industries and the implications of the transition from old to new growth engines for jobs, incomes and demand. Alongside its green and digital transitions, China is also working toward a growth model supported by higher household incomes and services-led consumption. Turning to the international monetary order, he observed that shifts in the global economy, trade networks and financial technology are driving the evolution toward a more diversified international monetary system. Economic and trade strength do not automatically translate into international currency status: institutional credibility and the depth and breadth of financial markets remain central to understanding this evolution and the internationalization of the renminbi.
Huimin Wu, Executive Dean of CICC Global Institute and Deputy Head of Research Department at CICC, noted that, as discussed in The New Pattern of Dual Circulation, a book jointly published this year by CICC Global Institute and CICC Research Department, China’s economy is entering a new stage of development. Its trade and outward investment are undergoing a paradigm shift, while emerging industries are becoming increasingly important drivers of growth in the global economy. These changes are both part of the broader process of global economic rebalancing and deeply shaped by it, giving rise to a new pattern of interaction between China and the global economy.
The forum brought together experts and industry representatives from institutions including the International Monetary Fund (IMF), ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO), Shanghai Advanced Institute of Finance (SAIF) at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, National University of Singapore, ICBC Standard Bank, Wood Mackenzie, and NSQ Capital. Discussions focused on the transformations of China’s trade and outward investment and their global implications, as well as the prospects for emerging industries such as innovative pharmaceuticals, green energy, and artificial intelligence.
This marked the first time the CGI Quarterly Macro Forum was held in Southeast Asia. Taking place during the week of the IMF and World Bank Annual Meetings, amid international discussions on global economic opportunities and challenges, the event brought Chinese perspectives to the global conversation and offered Chinese insights into key issues concerning China’s economy that are of broad international interest.
As an important part of CGI’s ongoing efforts to strengthen international exchanges, present China’s perspective, and foster a deeper understanding of China’s economic transformation process, the event was an innovative exploration. Looking ahead, CGI will continue to deepen its international engagement and work toward building an international dialogue platform focused on China’s economy, contributing to greater mutual trust and consensus, and playing a positive role in this cause.
Hashtag: #CICC
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About CICC
China International Capital Corporation Limited (CICC, 601995.SH, 3908.HK) was founded in 1995. Our experience in professional services includes leading several prominent transactions, reflecting our close involvement in China’s economic reform and development. Our vision is to become a first-class investment bank with international competitiveness. Our extensive network and cross-border business practices have enabled us to offer high-quality, value-added financial services to a diversified client base. This includes a full-service and balanced business model that offers investment banking, equities, FICC (Fixed Income, Currencies and Commodities), asset management, private equity and wealth management services, all of which draw on our comprehensive research and technology capability. Headquartered in Beijing, the Group has over 200 securities business offices in China, and established subsidiaries or branches in places including Hong Kong SAR, New York, London, Singapore, Frankfurt, Tokyo, Ho Chi Minh City and Dubai. As an investment bank with Chinese roots and an international reach, we are committed to providing first-rate financial services to both our Chinese and global clients to help them achieve their goals.
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai RISE Summit 2026 will open at Dubai World Trade Centre on Wednesday, bringing sovereign wealth funds, institutional investors, government officials and developers together to examine shifts in international investment and the financing of major projects. The one-day gathering on 14 October, organised around the theme Recharging Momentum in Global Economies, will consider how geopolitical tensions, borrowing costs and technological change are influencing decisions […]
Debut of ASEAN and Qinghai Pavilions alongside four key themes spanning energy, technology, green cities and waste management
ECO Expo Asia 2026 – Connecting the World for a Sustainable Future
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 October 2026 – Eco Expo Asia 2026, jointly organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, co-organised by the Environment and Ecology Bureau of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), will be held from 26 to 29 October at AsiaWorld-Expo.
HKTDC Associate Executive Director Silas Chu said: “Last month, the Hong Kong SAR Government unveiled the Policy Address and first Five-Year Plan, setting out a vision for building a green and liveable city. Across the region and beyond, China, the European Union and many ASEAN economies are actively pursuing carbon-neutrality or net-zero emission targets, and driving decarbonisation through regulations and industrial policies. Green transformation has shifted from policy aspiration to market rule. As global demand for ESG and green solutions continues to grow, Eco Expo Asia will bring together green technologies, innovative solutions, and global business opportunities to help enterprises capitalise on the new prospects emerging from this transition.”
He added, “This year’s Eco Expo Asia brings together over 340 exhibitors from 16 countries and regions, including first-time participants from Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam, highlighting the Expo’s growing international reach. Some 200 key officials and representatives of semi-official organisations from the Chinese Mainland, Hong Kong, Belt and Road countries, and ASEAN, will attend and tour the Expo, further promoting cross-regional cooperation and exchange.”
Speaking at the press conference, the Deputy Director of the Environmental Protection Department of the HKSAR Government, Dr Vanessa Au, expressed: “The 21st edition of Eco Expo Asia, held under the theme ‘Connecting the World for a Sustainable Future’, dovetails with the HKSAR Government’s First Five-Year Plan, and implements the Policy Address precisely aligning with the National 15th Five-Year Plan. It underscores our commitment to advancing Hong Kong’s green transformation, fostering green innovation, seizing the opportunities presented by the low-carbon economy, creating economic benefits and enhancing citizen well-being. Key highlights of this year’s expo include the HKSAR Government booth, the Environmental Campaign Committee Pavilion, the Hong Kong Pavilion and the newly established comprehensive experience zone for green technology. This year during the expo, the Environment and Ecology Bureau and the Ministry of Ecology and Environment of the People’s Republic of China will, for the first time, co-host the Belt and Road Green Innovation Conference in Hong Kong. In addition, the Environmental Protection Department, in association with the Belt and Road Initiative International Green Development Coalition and the Chinese Academy of Sciences, will jointly organise the second edition of the ‘Green Silk Road’ International Training Programme. This expo brings together stakeholders from all sectors, uniting our efforts to advance global carbon neutrality and sustainable development.”
Businesses show continued strong confidence in Hong Kong as an ESG business hub
The HKTDC has also released the “HKTDC ESG Index 2026”. The latest ESG Index stood at 67.3, up from 64.2 last year and well above the neutral threshold of 50, reflecting the continued strengthening of corporate confidence in Hong Kong’s role as an ESG hub. The survey also showed that 93% of respondents have integrated ESG into their overall business decision-making processes, while the share of businesses sourcing or selling ESG-related products and services rose from 29% in 2025 to 46% in 2026.
Silas said, “The rise in the ESG index reflects the continued strengthening of global businesses’ confidence in Hong Kong’s role as an ESG business hub. Results further demonstrate that ESG is increasingly being built into business decisions on investment, sourcing, and supply chain management, fuelling steady growth in demand for ESG products, services and solutions. ESG has evolved beyond a compliance requirement into a source of competitive advantage for companies.”
With strong demand for ESG solutions, Hong Kong is well positioned to unlock commercial opportunities across banking and finance, professional services, and innovation and technology. In terms of technological innovation, surveyed businesses identified the most impactful Hong Kong digital and ESG platforms for boosting performance as sustainable supply chain platforms (45%), AI analytics (37%), and cloud data reporting (30%). On supply chain management, respondents most valued Hong Kong’s ESG certification services (50%), followed by transparency and traceability tools (41%), and ESG audit and risk analysis solutions (36%).
Pavilion line-up expands with ASEAN and Qinghai Pavilion debuts
Eco Expo Asia brings together green innovations and technologies from around the world, offering the industry a platform to exchange ideas and explore new business opportunities. This year, the number of participating pavilions has risen to 18, covering a wider spread of regions. On the Chinese Mainland front, Qinghai Province makes its first appearance with a pavilion of its own, joined by the nine Chinese Mainland cities in the Greater Bay Area, Macao, Guangxi, Hunan, Shanghai, and Nanjing in Jiangsu Province.
Among the international group pavilions, the headline addition is a new ASEAN Pavilion, featuring 13 green technology companies from eight member countries, including Singapore, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam. An ASEAN networking reception on the opening day will further strengthen business ties with the region. In addition, Korea Institute of Fusion Energy (KFE), bringing two companies, will showcase their marine environmental technologies and waste gas treatment equipment. The US State of Illinois returns after several years, while Canada, Italy, and the Netherlands maintain their regular presence.
Regarding Hong Kong exhibitors, the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation once again leads 11 start-ups to the Expo to showcase local green innovation achievements. The Hong Kong Pavilion, supported by the Environmental Protection Department and coordinated by the Federation of Hong Kong Industries, is back with 19 local exhibitors presenting a diverse range of eco-friendly products, technologies and solutions. Rounding off the home-grown line-up, the HKSAR Government booth, featuring 11 bureaux and departments including the Environment and Ecology Bureau, and the Environmental Campaign Committee Pavilion, will highlight the city’s latest work in environmental protection and green development.
As a member of the HKSAR Government’s GoGlobal Task Force, the HKTDC will set up a GoGlobal Connect Zone, helping Chinese Mainland environmental enterprises tap international markets through Hong Kong’s professional services. A seminar on going global rounds out the programme, sharing practical experiences in expanding overseas.
Four thematic areas spotlight green innovation
Aligned with global trends and policy directions, this year’s Expo centres on four areas: Green Energy in Motion, Frontier Green Tech, Building for a Greener City and From Waste to Worth, showcasing the latest innovative green technologies, products, and solutions.
Under”Green Energy in Motion“, the Expo features green energy solutions spanning the maritime, land transport and aviation sectors. Echoing the call in the Policy Address and Hong Kong’s First Five-Year Plan to build a Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) industry chain, EcoCeres Ltd. (Booth: 3-F30), a global leading SAF producer, makes its Expo debut with its advanced renewable SAF made from waste materials, alongside Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO). The Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Pavilion (Booth: 3-E02) will also focus on energy, with start-ups presenting innovations such as EV chargers and modular EV conversion technology.
Under the “Frontier Green Tech” theme, around 30 start-ups and university spin-offs will show how research achievements have been transformed into practical environmental applications. Among them, first-time exhibitor Stellerus Technology Limited (Booth: 6-D27) will display the Multi‑Spectral Imaging Carbon Observatory (MUSICO), the world’s first lightweight, high‑resolution, high‑precision synergistic greenhouse gases observatory, which has already been deployed on China’s Tiangong space station. MUSICO monitors greenhouse gas emissions, supporting enterprises in formulating emission-reduction measures and supplying precise data to green finance institutions.
In keeping with the “building a green and liveable city” policy direction under Hong Kong’s Five-Year Plan, the “Building for a Greener City” theme gathers a host of innovations now in real-world use. Green Vigor Limited (Booth: 3-E02) will exhibit a modular hydropower system that converts wasted hydraulic resources from water tanks and cooling systems in buildings into electricity, a solution already in use in local shopping malls, commercial buildings and schools. AEC GreenTech Innovations Limited (Booth: 3-C20) brings a robot designed for plastering and paint spraying, which works at least five times faster than manual labour while halving material use, delivering environmental benefits. The technology has been adopted in local construction projects.
The fourth area, “From Waste to Worth“, assembles a number of leading Chinese Mainland enterprises in the waste management sector, including Chongqing Sanfeng Environment Group (Booth: 3-E30), named among Top 50 Environmental Enterprises in China and the Top 10 Influential Enterprises in China’s Solid Waste Industry, as well as listed environmental companies Dynagreen Environmental Protection Group (Booth: 3-B30) and Beijing Enterprises Environment Group (Booth: 3-D30), showcasing their waste management and resource circular solutions. Hong Kong-based Green AI Technology Limited (Booth: 3-E26) will launch REV, its new generation of the unmanned recycling station at the Expo, demonstrating how AI and automation can be applied to recycling.
Over 30 key events to gather experts from government, industry, academia and research
More than 30 forums and seminars will be held during the Expo, bringing together over 80 government officials, industry leaders and business representatives from the Chinese Mainland, Australia, Malaysia, Thailand, and other Belt and Road countries to share insights on green opportunities, success stories and forward-looking strategies.
The annual flagship event, Eco Asia Conference, will also feature a series of seminars centred on four key themes, with industry and academic experts presenting the latest developments. On 26 October, Professor Su Hui, Chair Professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at HKUST, who spearheaded the development of MUSICO, will join ProfessorKenneth Leung, Director of the State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Health at CityUHK, to discuss technologies for monitoring extreme weather and explore Hong Kong’s role as a regional green innovation hub. On 27 October, representatives from the Construction Industry Council and China State Construction Engineering (Hong Kong) Ltd will examine green building development from the perspectives of policy, certification and practice.
On 28 October, Avinash Persaud, Special Advisor on Climate Change to the President of the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and a member of the High-Level Expert Group on Climate Finance for the COP26, 27 and 28 Presidencies, will take to the stage. Drawing on his extensive experience spanning international finance, public policy, and climate finance, he will analyse emerging global trends in the field.
Public Dayinvites everyone to embrace green lifestyles
The final day of the Expo (29 October) will be Public Day, with free admission for the public, aiming to raise awareness of environmental protection and sustainability and to encourage the adoption of green lifestyles. A series of seminars on climate, environmental protection and food waste upcycling will be held that day. Speakers include representatives from the Hong Kong Observatory, Hong Kong meteorologist and former Assistant Director of the Hong Kong Observatory Leung Wing Mo, and guests from Ways Out HK, a local social enterprise that turns food waste into jewellery. Visitors can also take part in interactive workshops, including a recycled paper making workshop, green cleaners making workshop and green mini games, enabling participants to learn hands-on how to put resource recycling and green living into practice.
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Dubai Police has warned that increasingly convincing artificial intelligence deepfakes could undermine confidence in genuine photographs, videos and recordings, creating new obstacles for criminal investigations and digital security. A study prepared by the force’s Future Foresight Centre says the challenge is expanding beyond identifying fabricated material to establishing that authentic content has not been manipulated. It identifies potential consequences for public safety, information […]
Delhi police detained more than 1,500 people, including prominent youth movement leaders, on Saturday as authorities imposed extensive security restrictions across the capital to prevent a demonstration demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar.
Cockroach Janta Party (CJP) founder Abhijeet Dipke and senior organisers Saurav Das and Ashutosh Ranka were detained at Indira Gandhi International Airport after arriving from Mumbai. Their detention followed overnight police operations targeting supporters preparing to assemble at Jantar Mantar.
Thousands of police and paramilitary personnel were deployed across New Delhi, with barricades, vehicle inspections, transport restrictions and mobile internet disruptions affecting movement through several districts. Security arrangements extended to railway stations, major intersections and roads leading towards the proposed demonstration.
Police maintained that the gathering had not received official permission and that preventive measures were necessary to protect public order. Organisers accused authorities of attempting to suppress peaceful dissent over disputed revisions to electoral rolls.
The protest, organised under a campaign to safeguard democracy, sought Kumar’s removal following allegations that the Election Commission’s Special Intensive Revision of voter lists had excluded substantial numbers of eligible voters.
The commission has rejected accusations of partisan manipulation, maintaining that electoral roll verification is intended to identify inaccuracies and ensure that voter registers remain accurate. It has also pointed to procedures allowing eligible citizens to challenge exclusions and seek reinstatement.
Police confirmed that detentions occurred across several districts, including areas near transport terminals and Delhi’s borders. The number of people detained increased throughout Saturday as officers intercepted groups attempting to reach central Delhi.
Dipke, Das and Ranka were subsequently taken to separate locations. Dipke was moved towards Gurugram, Ranka to Dwarka and Das to another location within Delhi, according to information emerging after their detention.
The CJP condemned the action against its leadership and maintained that its supporters were exercising their constitutional right to protest. Videos circulated by the organisation showed its leaders confronting officers aboard an aircraft and raising slogans before being escorted away.
The Delhi Police had refused permission for the Jantar Mantar gathering, citing concerns about public safety, traffic disruption and compliance with regulations governing demonstrations. Authorities said previous conduct by organisers had contributed to their assessment of potential risks.
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs had alerted state governments and Union Territories to possible disturbances associated with the planned mobilisation. Its communication called for coordination with Delhi Police, intelligence sharing and preventive action under applicable laws.
Security personnel established checkpoints along major approaches to the capital, while restrictions at metro stations complicated journeys for commuters. Traffic diversions were introduced around sensitive government installations and routes associated with the proposed rally.
Mobile internet services were suspended in parts of central Delhi, adding to disruption caused by transport controls. Railway operations also faced restrictions, with some services delayed or cancelled amid the security arrangements.
Opposition politicians criticised the detentions, arguing that denying permission for the gathering and restricting movement undermined the right to peaceful assembly. Government supporters defended the precautions as necessary to prevent disorder and disruption to essential services.
The controversy centres on the Special Intensive Revision, an electoral verification exercise that opposition parties allege has resulted in the removal of legitimate voters from official lists.
Critics have cited figures suggesting that approximately 130 million electoral entries were affected by revisions, although the circumstances and validity of individual deletions remain contested. The figure does not establish that an equivalent number of eligible citizens were unlawfully disenfranchised.
Opposition parties contend that the exercise could disadvantage particular communities and alter electoral competition. The Election Commission denies political bias and maintains that verification procedures operate within the established electoral framework.
The dispute has sharpened scrutiny of election administration ahead of state assembly contests scheduled for 2027. Opposition representatives have demanded greater transparency concerning deletions, verification procedures and opportunities for affected voters to appeal.
The CJP has attracted support from students, activists and digital campaigners who have questioned the handling of electoral records. Its mobilisation has also drawn participation from opposition groups, although their political affiliations and demands are not identical.
Police deployments included specialised units assigned to crowd management and the protection of sensitive locations. Officers used loudspeakers to warn prospective demonstrators against entering restricted areas without authorisation.
Jantar Mantar, a designated venue for public demonstrations near Parliament, remained under heavy security throughout Saturday. Small groups nevertheless attempted to assemble at scattered locations, prompting further interventions by police personnel.
Authorities also monitored movement around accommodation facilities and transport hubs used by visitors arriving for the demonstration. Additional security checks remained in place at major entry points to central Delhi.
China will introduce a new employment initiative to help workers adapt to artificial intelligence, officials announced on Saturday, as Beijing seeks to create jobs while managing technological changes across its economy.
The Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security outlined the initiative during a State Council Information Office briefing, placing workforce development and emerging employment opportunities at the centre of China’s economic priorities for the next five years.
The programme will focus on aligning workers’ skills with changing industrial requirements as artificial intelligence becomes increasingly integrated into manufacturing, services and other sectors. Officials identified technological transformation as an important consideration for employment policy during the 2026–2030 planning period.
The announcement comes as China reported creating 10.52 million urban jobs during the first nine months of 2026, equivalent to 87.7 per cent of its annual employment target. The ministry described overall employment conditions as generally stable despite continuing pressure on the labour market.
China’s surveyed urban unemployment rate averaged 5.2 per cent during the first eight months of the year. Authorities are seeking to maintain employment in labour-intensive industries while developing opportunities in emerging sectors and strengthening recruitment across services.
The government also plans additional measures to expand service-sector employment, coordinating policies across departments to support businesses and improve access to jobs. Services remain a major source of employment, making their continued expansion important for absorbing workers entering the labour market.
The artificial intelligence initiative forms part of a broader employment strategy that emphasises vocational training, occupational mobility and closer coordination between educational institutions and employers. Beijing has identified mismatches between available skills and business requirements as an obstacle to improving employment quality.
Under the government’s five-year employment framework, vocational training programmes will be expanded to help workers acquire competencies demanded by changing industries. Particular attention will be directed towards graduates, migrant workers and people experiencing difficulties securing employment.
The authorities have also committed to improving systems that match jobseekers with vacancies, including the use of artificial intelligence in recruitment services and occupational guidance. These measures are intended to make employment services more responsive to changing business demand.
Separate guidelines issued by four government agencies in June established a framework for applying artificial intelligence across human resources and social security administration. The agencies included the human resources ministry, the National Development and Reform Commission, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology and the National Data Administration.
Those guidelines envisage using intelligent recruitment systems to identify employers’ requirements, assess applicants’ capabilities and provide personalised career guidance. They also call for improved monitoring of how artificial intelligence affects employment, including the development of assessment mechanisms to identify potential disruption.
The government wants employment services to connect information about vacancies with vocational training, skills assessment and recruitment assistance. Such integration could help workers identify qualifications required for positions emerging from technological transformation.
The initiative arrives alongside broader efforts to accelerate artificial intelligence deployment across China’s economy. Policy guidelines released this week call for stronger technological research, industrial applications and safeguards against risks associated with rapid investment in advanced technologies.
Beijing’s approach combines support for technological innovation with measures intended to prevent speculative investment and improve oversight. Authorities have called for artificial intelligence applications in established industries alongside development of intelligent products and advanced manufacturing capabilities.
Evidence of changing workplace requirements has emerged from research published by the International Labour Organization in September. Its examination of 21 Chinese enterprises across several industries found that every participating company was either deploying artificial intelligence or preparing to introduce it.
A complementary survey involving 1,591 professionals found that 56 per cent regarded artificial intelligence as an inevitable development, while 47 per cent believed the technology would create more jobs than it displaced. The findings also highlighted uncertainty surrounding employment effects.
The research identified productivity improvements in recruitment, customer services and manufacturing, although it noted limitations in measuring results consistently. These findings underline the importance of distinguishing potential employment opportunities from the displacement of existing tasks.
China’s employment authorities are also pursuing digital improvements to social insurance administration. Official figures showed that basic pension insurance covered more than 1.079 billion people at the end of September, while unemployment insurance covered 251 million.
Work-injury insurance covered 327 million people, according to the ministry. The combined balance of the country’s three principal social insurance funds stood at 11.2 trillion yuan at the end of September, providing a financial measure of the existing social protection system.
The UAE will participate in the World Bank Group and International Monetary Fund Annual Meetings in Bangkok from 12 to 18 October, with senior financial officials pursuing discussions on global economic stability, development financing and international cooperation.
Mohamed bin Hadi Al Hussaini, Minister of State for Financial Affairs, will lead the Ministry of Finance delegation, which is scheduled to attend ministerial discussions, multilateral consultations and bilateral meetings with representatives of participating countries.
The Ministry of Finance announced the participation on Friday, identifying financial resilience, sustainable development funding and stronger institutional partnerships as principal priorities. The meetings come amid mounting concerns over sovereign debt, borrowing costs, geopolitical tensions and uneven economic growth.
Khaled Mohamed Balama, Governor of the Central Bank of the UAE and the country’s governor to the IMF, will separately lead the central bank delegation. Assistant governors and senior officials will participate in discussions covering monetary policy, financial stability and emerging challenges affecting international markets.
Al Hussaini said the annual gathering offered an opportunity to coordinate economic positions and strengthen dialogue among governments and international financial institutions. The UAE would seek partnerships supporting inclusive development while examining financing mechanisms capable of improving economic resilience.
The Ministry of Finance delegation will attend the meeting of finance ministers and central bank governors from the Middle East, North Africa, Afghanistan and Pakistan with IMF Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva. Regional economic developments, financing requirements and financial stability are expected to feature in those discussions.
Its programme also includes the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting, the annual plenary session and consultations involving the International Monetary and Financial Committee, which advises the IMF on the international monetary and financial system.
A separate meeting of Arab governors with World Bank Group President Ajay Banga will provide another forum for discussing development priorities and cooperation with multilateral lenders. UAE officials will also hold bilateral engagements with representatives of partner countries.
The central bank has identified digital transformation, artificial intelligence, financial inclusion and climate resilience among its priorities. Its delegation intends to examine how technological developments can support economic growth while strengthening financial systems against emerging risks.
These discussions will take place against a difficult international economic backdrop. IMF Managing Director Georgieva has warned governments about mounting public debt and the need for credible fiscal policies, particularly as higher borrowing costs constrain spending and investment.
Geopolitical disruptions and pressure on energy markets have added uncertainty to economic forecasts. Policymakers attending the Bangkok meetings will face questions about balancing inflation control, financial stability and growth while addressing the financing needs of developing economies.
The World Bank Group has placed employment, private investment and development opportunities among the central themes of its programme. Scheduled discussions include mobilising private capital for jobs and examining how artificial intelligence can support employment and economic development.
For the UAE, these subjects intersect with its stated priorities of expanding international financial cooperation and supporting development financing. The Ministry of Finance said its delegation would examine opportunities for practical collaboration with governments and international institutions.
Bangkok will also provide the setting for preparations linked to the UAE’s hosting of the institutions’ 2029 Annual Meetings in Abu Dhabi. The World Bank Group and IMF announced that decision in April following approval by their boards of governors.
An official signing ceremony associated with the 2029 hosting arrangements is scheduled during the Bangkok gathering. Abu Dhabi’s selection will bring the meetings back to the UAE after Dubai hosted them in 2003.
The annual meetings bring together finance and development ministers, central bankers, institutional leaders, private sector representatives and civil society organisations. Their principal forums address the world economic outlook, monetary cooperation, development challenges and the operations of the two institutions.
The main venue this year is Bangkok’s Queen Sirikit National Convention Center. The formal plenary session is scheduled for 16 October, while the International Monetary and Financial Committee plenary is scheduled for 17 October.
The UAE programme also includes a reception bringing together banks from the country and their regional and international counterparts. The Ministry of Finance said the gathering was intended to strengthen institutional relationships and create opportunities for financial cooperation.
Other scheduled engagements include discussions with partner governments on bilateral economic relations and possible areas of collaboration. The ministry has not announced individual bilateral agreements or financing commitments ahead of the meetings.
Public sessions will accompany the ministerial programme, including discussions on artificial intelligence, private investment and development. Selected events will be streamed internationally, with interpretation available in several languages, including Arabic.
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Saudi Arabia’s Almarai plans to invest more than $4 billion through 2031 to expand production capacity, diversify its food and beverage portfolio and strengthen its presence across priority markets. The Riyadh-based company unveiled details of its 2026–2031 growth strategy at a capital markets day on Thursday, outlining four priorities covering established businesses, new product categories, emerging distribution channels and geographical expansion. The investment […]
MANILA, PHILIPPINES – Media OutReach Newswire – 8 October 2026 – The Ministry of Energy Transition and Water Transformation (PETRA) extend its warmest congratulations to the Malaysian organisations that excelled at the ASEAN Energy Awards (AEA) 2026. Malaysia secured twenty (20) regional recognitions, comprising eight (8) Winners, seven (7) First Runners-Up and five (5) Second Runners-Up.
This represents an improvement over Malaysia’s performance in 2025, when the country received 16 recognitions, including six category wins. The stronger performance in 2026 demonstrates the growing capabilities of Malaysian organisations in implementing energy efficiency and renewable energy solutions.
The recognitions were conferred under the ASEAN Energy Efficiency and Conservation Best Practices Awards and the ASEAN Renewable Energy Project Awards. The Malaysian recipients were recognised for projects involving energy-efficient and green buildings, biogas, solar and micro-hydro, as well as emerging technologies such as green hydrogen, waste-to-energy and battery energy storage systems (BESS).
Prior to stepping onto the regional stage at AEA 2026, these organisations were first recognised for their achievement at the national level through National Energy Awards.
The National Energy Awards (NEA) serves as Malaysia’s platform for identifying and recognising organisations with the potential to compete at the ASEAN level. Selected NEA 2026 winners represented Malaysia at AEA 2026 and presented the country’s sustainable energy achievements and best practices to the region.
PETRA regards this regional recognition as evidence of the ability of Malaysian industries, businesses and institutions to translate the country’s energy transition objectives into practical solutions. It also demonstrates the value of cooperation among the Government, industry and other relevant stakeholders in strengthening Malaysia’s energy ecosystem.
The ASEAN Energy Awards 2026 were presented in Manila, the Philippines, in conjunction with the 44th ASEAN Ministers on Energy Meeting (AMEM) and the ASEAN Energy Business Forum (AEBF).
Malaysia’s performance at AEA 2026 supports the objectives of the National Energy Policy 2022–2040 and the National Energy Transition Roadmap (NETR) to develop a secure, sustainable and inclusive energy system while enhancing the country’s long-term economic competitiveness.
These objectives will also be advanced through the National Energy Efficiency Action Plan 2.0 (NEEAP 2.0) for 2026–2035. The plan targets cumulative energy savings of 815,000 terajoule (TJ) over its 10-year implementation period and is expected to generate approximately RM85 billion in energy savings, attract RM36 billion in private investment and create around 29,000 employment opportunities.
Together with the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Act 2024, NETR and NEEAP 2.0 provide the policy and regulatory foundation to accelerate energy efficiency, encourage investment and innovation, and enhance Malaysia’s energy security and economic competitiveness.
PETRA, together with the Sustainable Energy Development Authority (SEDA) Malaysia and other relevant stakeholders, will continue to work with industry to increase the adoption of energy-efficient practices, expand renewable energy deployment, and facilitate innovation and investment in support of Malaysia’s energy transition objectives.
PETRA once again congratulates all Malaysian recipients for their achievements and for representing the country with distinction at AEA 2026. Their success reflects the progress of Malaysia’s energy sector and reinforces the country’s contribution to a secure, resilient and sustainable energy future for Malaysia and the wider ASEAN region.
ASEAN Energy Awards Winner List 2026
SUB-CATEGORY
NAME OF PROJECT
RANK
ASEAN Energy Efficiency & Conservation Best Practices Awards
GREEN BUILDING AWARDS Category
1
Retrofitted Building
Susten Sdn. Bhd. – Gurney Paragon & Hunza Tower
1st Runner Up
2
IEN Consultants Sdn. Bhd. – Menara Great Eastern & Great Eastern Mall
2nd Runner Up
3
Tropical Building
Gamuda Land – Wetlands Arboretum Centre
Winner
4
New & Existing Building
Edgenta Mediserve Sdn. Bhd. – Hospital Cyberjaya
1st Runner Up
5
Small Green Building
Conevo Green Consultancy Sdn. Bhd. – Hwa Hin Office
2nd Runner Up
6
Large Green Building
Edgenta Mediserve Sdn. Bhd. – Hospital Cyberjaya
1st Runner Up
7
Pantai Bayu Indah Sdn. Bhd. – One Shell Square Miri
2nd Runner Up
8
Green Residential
TKCA Architects Sdn. Bhd. – The Spectrum House
Winner
9
BGreen Associates Sdn. Bhd. – 42 Danau Villa
1st Runner Up
10
Zero Energy Building
Conevo Green Consultancy Sdn. Bhd. – Hwa Hin Office
2nd Runner Up
ASEAN Renewable Energy Project Awards
11
Off-Grid Power
TNB GSparx Sdn.Bhd. – Lighting Lives Beyond the Grid: Stand Alone Solar PV-Battery Electrification Empowering Indigenous Community Resilience
2nd Runner Up
12
Off-Grid Thermal
SD Guthrie Renewable Energy Sdn. Bhd. – SDG’s Pioneering Co-Firing Biogas Plant Utilising Palm Oil Mill Effluent from Lavang Oil Mill to Improve Boiler Efficiency, Deliver Sustainable Thermal Energy and Enhance Biomass Fuel Usage
TONIBUNG – Walou Micro: Hydro Solar Hybrid Small Scale, Community Based Renewable Energy Project
Winner
15
On-Grid Self Consumption
IOI Bio-Energy Sdn. Bhd. – Maximising Green Energy Generation
1st Runner Up
16
Biofuel
Johor Plantation Group Berhad – Palm to Pipeline: Biomethane – Empowering the Nation with Green Gas
1st Runner Up
17
Special Submission – Waste to Energy
Indah Water Konsortium Sdn. Bhd. – Waste to Energy Integration at Langat RSTP: Advancing Carbon Reduction through Anaerobic Digestion and Biogas Recovery
Winner
18
Special Submission – Green Hydrogen
Sarawak Energy Berhad – PowerCube Solar Hydrogen System – Containerised Solar Hydrogen Project, Rumah Bangau, Song
Winner
19
Special Submission – RE Enabler Technology
N.U.R. Power Sdn. Bhd. – Accelerating the Net-Zero Transition: Advancing Renewable Penetration in Industrial Parks Through Smart Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) Microgrid Integration at NUR Power’s West Substation in Kulim Hi-Tech Park
Winner
20
National Strategic Excellence
GLT BP Power Sdn. Bhd. – GLT BP Power Centralised Biogas Hub – Malaysia’s First Integrated Multi-Mill POME-to Power Facility
Winner
Hashtag: #PETRA
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Rated AAA on the China national scale by Lianhe and recently ranked 398th on Forbes Global 2000, up from 1007th in 2022 · Milestone marked by a gong ceremony at the Connect Hall, Hong Kong Stock Exchange, on 30 June 2026
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY and HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 30 June 2026 – OTP Bank Plc. (“OTP Bank” or “OTP”), the leading banking group in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE), today marked the establishment of its EUR 7 billion Euro Medium Term Note (EMTN) programme on the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the “Hong Kong Stock Exchange” or “HKEX”) with a commemorative gong ceremony at the Connect Hall, Hong Kong Stock Exchange. OTP is the first European Union financial institution to open an EMTN programme on the exchange.
Official OTP Bank Gong Ceremony
The EUR 7 billion programme was established on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on 28 May 2026, following approval of its base prospectus by Luxembourg’s Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF) on 27 May 2026, allowing the issuer to raise debt in multiple tranches, currencies, structures and maturities over time. For OTP – which holds an AAA issuer rating on the China national scale from Lianhe Ratings, the highest available – it establishes a permanent platform for trading with certain OTP bonds, and later for raising capital from Asian institutional investors.
On 16 June 2026, OTP priced the programme’s inaugural issuance: a EUR 1 billion Tier 2 note, listed in Hong Kong and Luxembourg. It is OTP’s largest-ever bond transaction and, as at the issue date, the largest euro-denominated Tier 2 note issued by a bank in the CEE and wider CEMEA region. The offering drew a peak order book of EUR 4.1 billion – the largest in OTP’s history – and priced at a coupon of 4.625%.
The listing builds on OTP’s growing presence in Asian capital markets. In 2025 OTP issued its first Dim Sum green bond, raising CNH 900 million and becoming the first Hungarian institution to issue a public offshore renminbi green bond, following a CNY 300 million bond in 2024. The Bank has operated a representative office in Beijing since 2017, became a full member of the Asian Financial Cooperation Association (AFCA) in 2024, and maintains a strategic partnership with the Industrial and Commercial Bank of China (ICBC).
Sándor Pataki, Director of Investor Relations and Capital Markets Operations of OTP Bank, said: “Listing our EMTN programme in Hong Kong is a clear demonstration of OTP Bank’s long-term vision and strategic commitment to international capital markets. Hong Kong excels itself as one of the world’s leading international financial centres, serving as a vital bridge between East and West. For OTP Bank, this is not only an opportunity to access liquidity, but also to deepen relationships and build lasting trust with investors in this dynamic region. The demand we have seen for OTP’s credit, including the record order book for our inaugural issue off the programme, reflects the growing interest in high-quality European issuers.”
As Asian investors increasingly look to Europe to diversify their portfolios, Central and Eastern Europe offers a distinctive proposition: emerging-market growth rates combined with the low-risk profile of the European Union. The region’s attractiveness is reinforced by its convergence towards the eurozone. Three of the five countries in which OTP is the market leader sit at the heart of Europe’s euro-convergence story – Bulgaria, which adopted the euro on 1 January 2026, Slovenia, which adopted the euro years ago, and Hungary, OTP’s flagship market, where the recently elected government aims to create the conditions for euro adoption around 2030.
OTP combines what rarely comes together in European banking: high growth, strong profitability and an ultraconservative balance sheet built for resilience. OTP Group is one of the largest and fastest-growing banking groups in the region, recently ranked 398th on the Forbes Global 2000 list, up from 1007th place in 2022. It pairs an annual organic loan growth of around 15% with a disciplined acquisition record and high profitability – a 2025 return on equity of 21.6% – and with an ultraconservative balance sheet: a leverage ratio well above its European peers, strong capital and liquidity, and one of the most resilient outcomes in the European Banking Authority’s latest stress test. In 2023, OTP became the first European bank to enter Uzbekistan, bringing the total population across OTP’s markets to 110 million.
Sándor Pataki, Director of Investor Relations and Capital Markets Operations of OTP Bank, added: “We believe the combination of growth, profitability and stability is what makes OTP an attractive name for fixed-income investors. This is also reflected in our recent ranking among the world’s top 500 companies by Forbes.These achievements are the result of a consistent strategy: prudent growth, diversified funding sources, and a strong focus on long-term partnerships. Over the decades, OTP Bank has built a solid track record in international debt capital markets, and today’s milestones further strengthen that foundation. Looking ahead, we see significant opportunities to deepen our engagement with Asian investors and institutions. We are confident that this listing will serve as a cornerstone for long-term cooperation, mutual growth, and shared success.” Hashtag: #OTPBank #Banking #Finance #HongKong #Hungary
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
OTP Bank
OTP Group provides universal financial services to 17.5 million customers across 11 countries in Central and Eastern Europe and Central Asia, with 40,000 employees and total assets of USD 138 billion. OTP has ranked No. 1 in Central and Eastern Europe by Tier 1 capital in The Banker’s Top 100 CEE Banks for three consecutive years (2023-2025); it was named the second best-performing bank in Europe by S&P Global Market Intelligence and the Best Bank in Central and Eastern Europe by Global Finance. The Group has risen to 398th on the Forbes Global 2000 in 2026 (from 1007th in 2022). OTP Bank has been listed on the Budapest Stock Exchange since 1995. The Bank holds an AAA issuer rating on the China national scale from Lianhe and is rated BBB by S&P.
Arabian Post Staff -Dubai Deutsche Bank has made three key appointments in its Dubai office as the German lender broadens investment banking coverage across the Middle East and seeks to capture growing capital-markets and institutional-client business. Ilya Korobov has relocated from London to Dubai as a director of debt capital markets for Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa. He joined Deutsche Bank in November […]
By Nantoo Banerjee The hand-picked 30-share sensitive index (Sensex) of Bombay Stock Exchange, which has long been seen as the country’s overall industry performance barometer, seems to be losing its reliability under profit-booking punters’ whims. The Sensex faced sharp selling pressure last week, closing down at 72,972.56 after plunging over 1,000 points earlier in the […]
Investigators examining the cockpit attack aboard a flydubai flight to Tel Aviv believe the co-pilot intended to kill the captain and crash the aircraft into a target in Israel in an attack modelled on September 11, 2001. A preliminary Israeli investigation has concluded that Hamam al-Hammami, a 29-year-old Omani national, planned to take control of Flight FZ1073 after incapacitating Captain Smit Machchhar and then deliberately strike a […]
Katherine Ryan returns to Dubai Opera on October 12 as part of the Dubai Comedy Festival, bringing her sharp observational stand-up back to the city for a 9.30pm performance. The award-winning comedian, writer, actor and presenter will appear in the Main Auditorium, with tickets starting at Dh195. The show is open to audiences aged 16 and above and is presented by GME Events as part of the […]
Shares perspectives on leadership, resilience and legacy with nearly 1,000 customers, young professionals, and aspiring leaders
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 October 2026 – Prudential Hong Kong Limited (“Prudential”) welcomed Dr Maye Musk, a globally renowned author, supermodel and dietitian, to the Prudential Leadership Forum, titled Beyond Success: The Blueprint for Leadership, Resilience and Legacy, held on 3 October 2026.
(From left) Lawrence Lam, Chief Executive Officer, Prudential Hong Kong Limited; Dr Maye Musk; and Angel Ng, Regional CEO, Greater China; Group Customer and Wealth, Prudential plc, at the Prudential Leadership Forum, where they shared perspectives on leadership, resilience and legacy planning across generations.
Nearly 1,000 VIP customers, young professionals, aspiring leaders and top-performing financial consultants came together for a conversation on resilience, reinvention and the values that shape lasting family legacies.
Opening the forum, Lawrence Lam, Chief Executive Officer, Prudential Hong Kong Limited, highlighted Prudential’s commitment to customers: “Prudential has earned enduring trust with families by actively listening to their evolving needs across generations. Sustaining that trust requires a forward-looking vision, creating meaningful opportunities for customers to connect with visionary leaders and fresh perspectives. Dr Maye Musk’s journey is a powerful reminder that experience, resilience and ambition can open new possibilities at every stage of life. ”
The centerpiece of the day was an engaging fireside chat between Dr Musk and Angel Ng, Regional CEO, Greater China; Group Customer and Wealth, Prudential plc. Through the exchange, Dr Musk shared candid reflections on rebuilding her career across life stages and countries, empowering her three children to pursue their distinct ambitions, and wealth succession.
Reflecting on her journey, Dr Musk said: “Success is rarely a straight line. Throughout my life, I have had to start over, adapt and embrace new opportunities, often when others thought it was too late. What I have learned is that resilience is built through action, not certainty. Whether as a parent, a professional or a leader, our role is not to create a perfect path for the next generation, but to give them the confidence, values and independence to create their own. Lasting legacies are built not by removing challenges, but by helping others develop the strength to navigate them.”
Angel highlighted Prudential’s vision for legacy: “In today’s rapidly evolving world, planning for the next generation is about more than passing on financial wealth. It is also about passing on the values and judgement that help them make informed decisions and pursue their aspirations. When families pair clear principles with the confidence to make their own choices, they can protect what they have built while creating a stronger foundation for generations to come. Prudential supports families in planning ahead, passing on their wealth with confidence, and building a brighter tomorrow.”
Building on the theme of preparing for the future, the forum then turned to the city’s distinctive advantages and emerging opportunities for talent through a panel discussion titled Hong Kong: Where Global Wealth and Talent Converge. Felix Chan, the Director of Hong Kong Talent Engage; and Jason Fong, Global Head of Family Office at Invest Hong Kong shared perspectives on how the leaders of tomorrow can learn, grow and thrive in Hong Kong.
By bringing together forward-looking perspectives and opportunities to engage with global leaders, Prudential continues to support customers at every stage of life, helping them plan for their health and financial wellbeing, protect what matters most, and build resilience for the future. This commitment is also reflected in value-added platforms such as PruNextGen, through which we support families in planning early for their children’s future, broadening their horizons and laying the foundations for lifelong success.
Hashtag: #PrudentialLeadershipForum
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Prudential Hong Kong Limited
Prudential has been serving the people of Hong Kong since 1964. Through Prudential Hong Kong Limited and Prudential General Insurance Hong Kong Limited, the Company provides a range of financial planning services and products, including individual life insurance, investment-linked insurance, retirement solutions, health and medical protection, general insurance, and employee benefits to protect over 1.41 million customers in Hong Kong. Beyond Hong Kong, Prudential serves the Macau community through its branch, offering health insurance and financial solutions to complete its footprint in the Greater Bay Area. Visit www.prudential.com.hk for more information.
Cloudflare has released two open-source artificial intelligence decision models, Clef and Clef-flash, mounting a direct challenge to TypeSafe AI’s Jev in the emerging market for fast, structured decisions inside software and autonomous-agent workflows. The company made both models available through Workers AI on October 1 and released their weights on Hugging Face under the Apache 2.0 licence. Clef has 27 billion parameters, while the latency-focused Clef-flash has […]
Transforming QS Practice in a New Era: Integrating Digital Construction, Collaborative Contracting and Payment Security
HONG KONG, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 3 October 2026 – The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors (HKIS) Quantity Surveying Division hosted the HKIS Quantity Surveying Division Conference 2026 (the Conference) today at the CIC-Zero Carbon Park.
This year’s theme, “Transforming QS Practice in a New Era: Integrating Digital Construction, Collaborative Contracting and Payment Security”, reflects the evolving role of Quantity Surveyors during a time of economic restructuring.
The Conference brought together around 200 participants both in person and online, including government officials, industry leaders, professionals, academics, and young practitioners.
Mr LAU Chun Kit, Ricky, JP, Permanent Secretary for Development (Works) for Development Bureau of the HKSAR Government, attended as the Guest of Honour and delivered a keynote speech.
Quantity Surveyors are trained professionals with expert knowledge of construction costs and contracts who play a crucial role throughout the project development cycle, from investment feasibility studies and procurement strategy to commercial governance, contract administration, and dispute management. The seminar aims to explore how, amidst the ever-changing landscape of the digital revolution and the implementation of new legislation, quantity surveyors can evolve from their traditional roles in contract and cost management into enablers who drive successful value creation in construction projects.
Mr. LAU Chun Kit, Ricky, JP, Permanent Secretary for Development (Works), Development Bureau, said: “The theme of this year’s conference is both timely and visionary. The Conference serves as a strategic platform for surveying practitioners and professionals to exchange insights, explore best practices, and formulate a collective vision for the future of the surveying profession. The insights and best practices generated will not only contribute in advancing the role of surveying profession in the new era, but also reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as a leader in construction excellence.”
The conference featured 20 distinguished speakers from Hong Kong Government bureaux and departments, the private sector, academia, professional institutions, and law firms to share their insights and best practices in the quantity surveying field. Through thought-provoking discussions, the event not only enhanced participants’ technical knowledge but also catalyzed long-term cross-sector collaboration, empowering the industry to continuously deliver highly efficient and resilient built assets in the future.”
Sr WAN Wai Ming, Tony, President of the Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors, noted in his welcome speech, “As the construction landscape undergoes profound shifts, quantity surveyors are evolving from traditional cost guardians into strategic value architects. Under this year’s theme, we gather to explore emerging challenges, tackle critical issues, and seize new opportunities. Together, we redefine our professional identity, share actionable insights, and shape a forward-looking roadmap for the quantity surveying industry in Hong Kong.”
Sr TING Yuen Chun, Eric, Chairman of the HKIS Quantity Surveying Division, acknowledged that the built environment is facing increasingly complex social and economic pressures. He emphasised that these challenges serve as an important reminder that, while technology is a vital enabler of progress, built-environment professionals must continue to apply their expertise and professional judgement, while strengthening collaboration across disciplines, to navigate change and deliver sustainable value to society.
Sr WONG Kin Yan, Winnie, Organising Committee Chair of the Conference stated in her closing remarks, “Developments in Collaborative Contracting, Digital Construction, and Payment Security present an opportunity for our profession to evolve beyond traditional cost management.
Today’s quantity surveyors are increasingly called upon to serve as trusted advisers, driving collaboration, leading digital transformation, and championing transparency and fairness across the entire project lifecycle. By embracing these changes, we can continue to play a pivotal role in delivering sustainable, resilient and high-performing built assets for our community.”
List of Speakers (in order of presentation delivery)
Keynote Speech by Guest of Honour
Mr LAU Chun Kit, Ricky, JP, Permanent Secretary for Development (Works), Development Bureau, HKSARG
Session 1: Collaborative Contracting
Mr LEUNG Lap Ki, Francis, Team Leader (Trade & Procurement), Development Bureau, HKSARG
Sr CHOI Wing Chung, Hayman, Project Strategy and Delivery Leader (Asia), Mott MacDonald Hong Kong Limited
Ir LEUNG Cheuk Lun, NEC Strategic Advisor, Civil Engineering and Development Department, HKSARG
Ir WANG Yan Hua, Chairman and Managing Director, China Road and Bridge Corporation (Hong Kong)
Sr Yau Wan Fong, Deputy Director, WT Partnership (HK) Limited
Mr Put HUI, Senior Digital Transformation Lead, Innovative Technology, Gammon Construction Limited
Mr Ronald CHAN, Head of Sustainability for APAC, Currie & Brown
Sr Sunny CHOI, Chairman of Digitalisation Sub-committee, Quantity Surveying Division, The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors; Past Chairman of Quantity Surveying Division, The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors (2021-2023)
Sr Dr Paul HO, Past Chairman of Quantity Surveying Division, The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors (2005-2006)
Session 3: Payment Security
Sr Tommy CHAN, Executive Director, Arcadis Hong Kong Limited
Cr Sr Ir ZA Wai Gin, Tony, Executive Director, Hip Hing Construction Co., Ltd.
Sr Hinson CHEUNG, Partner, Pinsent Masons
Sr Terry CHAK, Director of North Asia Region, Rider Levett Bucknall Limited
Sr TT CHEUNG, BBS, JP, Past President, The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors
Sr CHONG Lui Chuen, Executive Committee Member, CSHK Professional Committee
Mr Eric CHUNG, Barrister-at-Law, Pacific Chambers
Sr Prof LEUNG Hing Fung, Professor and Head, Department of Law and Business, Hong Kong Shue Yan University; Adjunct Professor, Department of Real Estate and Construction, University of Hong Kong; Barrister-at-law, Arbitrator and Mediator
Ir Prof Thomas HO, JP, Chairman, Construction Industry Council;
Sr Amelia FOK, Chairman, The Association of Consultant Quantity Surveyors;
Ir Prof Michael YAM, Head of Department and Professor, Department of Construction Management and Intelligence, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University;
Sr Renee CHAN, Senior Lecturer, Department of Design and Architecture, Technological and Higher Education Institute of Hong Kong
First Row: Past Presidents of the Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors, Executive Committee of the Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors, and Council Member of the Quantity Surveying Division, the Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors
007 Sr Winnie WONG, Organising Committee Chair of the HKIS Quantity Surveying Division Conference 2026, delivered closing remarks.
008 The Conference gathered around 200 industry professionals, participating in person and online.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About the Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors
Established in 1984, The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors (HKIS) is the only surveying professional body incorporated by ordinance in Hong Kong. As of 30 September 2026, the number of members reached 11248, of which 8301 (FHKIS: 579, MHKIS: 7722) were corporate members, 49 were associate members and 2898 were probationers and students.
HKIS work includes setting standards for professional services and performance, establishing codes of ethics, determining requirements for admission as professional surveyors, and encouraging members to upgrade skills through continuing professional development.
The Institute has an important consultative role in government policy making and on issues affecting the profession. We have advised the government on issues such as building safety and unauthorized building works, problems of property management, town planning and development strategies, construction quality, construction costs and housing problems. We have also issued guidance notes on floor area measurement, real estates valuation and land boundary survey, etc.
We have an established presence in the international arenas, have overseas connections, and have entered into reciprocal agreements with professional surveying and valuation institutes in Australia, Canada, Japan, New Zealand, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and Mainland China recognizing the counterpart’s member’s qualifications. In addition, HKIS is a member of various leading international surveying organisations.
By K Raveendran India’s electoral system has entered a territory where the argument is no longer merely about errors in voters’ lists. The deeper question is whether citizens can continue to repose confidence in the constitutional institution entrusted with deciding who gets on those lists, how names are removed and whether the rules governing that […]
By Ashok Nilakantan Ayers NEW YORK: As the United States enters the final month before the November 3 midterm elections, both parties are confronting an increasingly fluid political landscape. Republicans hold the White House, the Senate and the House of Representatives, but history has rarely been kind to governing parties in midterm years. Democrats, meanwhile, […]
PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Company Limited secured 12 awards across international, industry and consumer sectors in 2026, reflecting broad recognition of its vision to link business growth with opportunity, quality of life and a sustainable future for all stakeholders.
BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 2 October 2026 – PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Company Limited (OR), the retail and lifestyle arm of Thailand’s PTT Group, has received 12 awards in 2026 spanning three sectors of recognition: international capital markets, domestic industry and consumers. These include six awards from the 16th Asian Excellence Awards organised by Hong Kong-based financial magazine Corporate Governance Asia, the Thailand Top CEO of the Year 2026 by BUSINESS+ magazine and the Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy, Thammasat University, and five brand awards from Marketeer No.1 Brand Thailand 2026, each affirming a different dimension of the company’s vision: “Empowering All Toward Inclusive Growth.”
At the heart of OR’s vision is a commitment to ensure that business growth creates tangible value beyond financial returns, expanding opportunity, raising quality of life and building a sustainable future for investors, communities, partners and consumers alike. This vision is executed through four core missions: Seamless Mobility, All Lifestyles, Global Market and OR Innovation, each underpinned by three sustainability pillars: Economic Prosperity, Living Community and Healthy Environment. Also, OR’s Sustainability concept “OR Term Okad Dee Dee Dee” empowering opportunity for three Good Dimension, Good Community, Good Environment and Good Growth.
Under the leadership of M.L. Peekthong Thongyai, Chief Executive Officer, OR has expanded its operations across 10 countries, delivered 2025 EBITDA of 20,357 million baht (approximately USD 623 million), up 15.2% year-on-year, with net profit rising 47.8% to 11,304 million baht (approximately USD 346 million), and grown blueplus+, its lifestyle and membership application, to 9.3 million registered members. These results underpinned both the Thailand Top CEO of the Year 2026 in the retail and wholesale category and Asia’s Best CEO at the Asian Excellence Awards.
The remaining five Asian Excellence Awards reflect the financial and social dimensions of OR’s vision. Asia’s Best CFO, Best Investor Relations Company and Best Investor Relations Professional recognise OR’s structured stakeholder communication, including quarterly analyst meetings, non-deal roadshows and bilingual disclosure for domestic and international investors. The Sustainable Asia Award and Asia’s Best CSR reflect OR’s commitment to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by more than one third against a 2022 baseline by 2030, progressing towards Net Zero by 2050, alongside programmes such as Thaidet, which supports over 500 local entrepreneurs through OR’s retail network, and Café Amazon for Chance, which creates employment for people with disabilities, senior workers including underprivileged people. OR is also a constituent of the Dow Jones Sustainability Best in Class Indices in the Emerging Markets category for 2026.
At the consumer level, five brands — PTT Station, EV Station PluZ, Café Amazon, PTT LPG and PTT Lubricants — claimed top positions at the Marketeer No.1 Brand Thailand 2026, affirming the All Lifestyles mission through a network serving 3.9 million users daily, EV charging infrastructure covering all 77 provinces, and a Café Amazon footprint of 4,830 domestic outlets and 256 international locations.
“These awards reflect recognition from the people and institutions that matter most to OR — our investors, our industry peers and our customers,” said M.L. Peekthong Thongyai, Chief Executive Officer of PTT Oil and Retail Business Public Company Limited. “Each one affirms that our vision of building an integrated ecosystem, one that creates opportunity, improves quality of life and drives sustainable growth, is delivering results across every dimension of our business.”
Across all 12 awards, each recognition maps to OR’s four missions in action: Seamless Mobility and Global Market through network expansion and digital platform growth; All Lifestyles through consumer brand leadership across energy, food and beverage, and services; and OR Innovation through the digital infrastructure connecting it all. Together, they confirm that OR’s “Empowering All Toward Inclusive Growth” vision is producing measurable, multi-dimensional results across every stakeholder group the company serves.
Hashtag: #OR
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.