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Themed “Where Miracles Happen,” the milestone event honors the pioneering spirit that has propelled generations of HKUST members to achieve remarkable feats. Officiating at the ceremony were Mr. CHAN Kwok-Ki, Chief Secretary for Administration of the HKSAR Government; Mr. LUO Yonggang, Deputy Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR (LOCPG); and Dr. CHOI Yuk-Lin, Secretary for Education of the HKSAR Government. They were joined by HKUST Pro-Chancellor Dr. John CHAN Cho-Chak, Council Chairman Prof. Harry SHUM, Court Chairman Dr. the Honorable Andrew LIAO Cheung-Sing, and President Prof. Nancy IP to inaugurate a year of commemorative activities.

A Journey Forged with Vision and Purpose

In her welcome address, President Ip, who joined HKUST in 1993, offered a personal reflection on the University’s remarkable ascent. She witnessed its evolution into a world-class institution; a success built on academic excellence and a vibrant innovation ecosystem created from the ground up. She credited this profound transformation to the extraordinary foresight of the University’s Founding President, Prof. Chia-Wei Woo.

“From its very inception, HKUST was built on a bold and unprecedented vision: to become Hong Kong’s first research-intensive university,” President Ip shared. “Long before the Greater Bay Area concept existed, our founders, led by Prof. Woo, understood that Hong Kong’s future was inextricably linked with the region. This visionary courage saw them forge vital connections with the Chinese Mainland, laying the groundwork for what would become HKUST (Guangzhou) in 2022. Their courage, dedication, and tenacity built the unshakeable foundation on which we stand today.”

President Ip emphasized that the University’s success is measured not by rankings alone, but by its tangible impact on society. This founding DNA—to anticipate and meet societal needs with excellence—is now driving HKUST’s most ambitious chapter yet: the establishment of a new School of Medicine. “This is a transformative milestone, fulfilling a dream pursued for over three decades,” she stated. “We are deeply grateful to the HKSAR Government for its trust and partnership. Together, we will build a technologically advanced, humanistic medical school that ushers in a new era for healthcare in Hong Kong. Let us honor those who walked before us by carrying their courageous legacy into a new era of excellence.”

A Cornerstone of Hong Kong’s Global Leadership

Mr. Chan Kwok-Ki commended HKUST’s profound impact on Hong Kong’s development. “Over the past 35 years, HKUST has evolved from a bold new institution into a globally respected university, driven by visionary leadership, dedicated faculty, a continuing flow of talented students, and an enduring spirit of innovation. Its strong international rankings, vibrant start-up ecosystem, and diverse global student body demonstrate how research and education can deliver tangible societal impact,” he stated. “As Hong Kong advances its role as an international education hub, HKUST stands as a shining example of how universities can nurture global talent while supporting national development priorities. With strengths spanning artificial intelligence, science, and its planned School of Medicine, HKUST is exceptionally well-positioned to shape the future of innovation and talent development.”

Carrying a Pioneering Spirit into the Next Chapter

Prof. Harry Shum reflected on the University’s unique position. “Thirty-five years is a fascinating milestone. In human terms, it is the age of maturity, the point where youthful energy meets seasoned wisdom. And I see the same spirit alive in this institution. We still possess the curiosity and drive of our early years. But now we have the strength, the reputation, and the alumni network that only decades can build. The world is changing faster than ever before. If we are to serve the next generation as well as we have served the past, we must lead, we must innovate, and we must redefine what education can be. In this regard, HKUST is ready to open a new chapter.

“The HKSAR Government has appointed HKUST with the trust to build the third medical school in Hong Kong. We envision the University’s medical school that will bridge traditional medical curriculum with the latest technology and AI breakthroughs, will gradually revolutionize the entire medical spectrum—from diagnosis to treatment to recovery, prevention and personalized medicine. I am confident that this future-oriented medical school, which will admit its first cohort in 2028, will play an important role in educating and training a new generation of scientists and clinicians in the next 35 years and beyond.”

A Celebration of Innovation and Heritage

Reflecting the theme “Where Miracles Happen,” the ceremony showcased HKUST’s leadership in technology in a truly spectacular fashion. In a breathtaking fusion of tradition and innovation, the university’s Guangzhou campus team presented a robotic lion dance. This remarkable creation brought the classic folk art to life through advanced robotics, embodying the spirit of cultural heritage reimagined through cutting-edge engineering.

For the grand officiating ceremony, HKUST turned into an unexpected source of inspiration: humanity’s best friends. But there were no ordinary dogs. A team of robotic dogs—developed by Direct Drive Technology (an HKUST-nurtured startup), the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, and the Cheng Kar-Shun Robotics Institute—took center stage. Engineered to navigate complex, uneven terrain and perform dangerous industrial inspections, these four-legged helpers were given a far more meaningful mission for the day: carrying the ceremonial “Miracle Balls” to the officiating guests. As robotic dogs trotted majestically onto stage bearing their precious cargo, they symbolized the University’s commitment to channeling cutting-edge research into real-world applications—and its penchant for making miracles happen.

The ceremony reached its pinnacle with a dramatic display of innovation. In a symbolic gesture of bridging past and future, a drone—generously donated by distinguished alumnus Mr. WANG Tao, Founder of DJI—soared into the venue carrying the commemorative “35th Symbol Key.” As the drone gracefully descended to deliver the key to the officiating party on stage, it signaled the formal inauguration of the anniversary celebrations.

HKUST expressed its deep gratitude to Mr. Wang for his generous donation of two of the latest drone solutions to the university. These state-of-the-art drones will serve as an inspiration for faculty and students to explore and address new challenges in the rapidly evolving low-altitude economy.

The campus itself has been transformed with a “Circle of Time” visual theme, inspired by the iconic Sundial sculpture—a symbol of the University’s enduring legacy and its continuous measurement of progress in education, research, and knowledge transfer.

A Legacy of Excellence and National Trust

Since its founding in 1991, HKUST has risen to rank among the world’s top 50 universities. This commitment to excellence is underscored by the deep trust the nation has placed in the University. Following the reorganization of two existing State Key Laboratories, HKUST has secured approval from the Ministry of Science and Technology to establish a new one, further strengthening its role in advancing cutting-edge research critical to national development.

In a major national space endeavor, HKUST is developing a multi-functional robot for the historic Chang’E-8 lunar mission, designed to operate on the lunar surface and contribute to China’s advancing space exploration capabilities. The University is also leading the development of a high-precision, point-source greenhouse gas detection instrument. This groundbreaking project is set to make history as it will become HKSAR’s first payload to China’s Tiangong Space Station aboard the Tianzhou cargo spacecraft for research and application.

Celebratory Events

A full year of celebratory activities is planned, including co-hosting Asia Universities Summit with Times Higher Education, an AI Film Festival, and joint celebrations with HKUST (Guangzhou).

Global Thought Leadership

Following the symposium held earlier this year, where multiple Nobel laureates and world-leading scholars were invited to engage with HKUST faculty, students and alumni, the University will co-host the THE Asia Universities Summit 2026 with Times Higher Education (THE) this April. The event will draw university presidents and industry leaders from around the world to Hong Kong to explore Asia’s leadership role in driving global change. HKUST will also host the China Association of Higher Education’s flagship “World University Presidents Forum” for the first time in Hong Kong.

AI and Innovation Thematic Events

HKUST will organize a series of events focused on AI, technology governance and creative culture—including an AI Film Festival—to highlight the University’s leadership and societal impact in AI.

Building the HKUST Community

The University will host joint celebrations across its Clear Water Bay and Guangzhou campuses, including a year-long blood donation drive, a marathon, a “Mixed Reality x AI” art exhibition, and more, to foster closer interaction between faculty and students from the two campuses. HKUST will also organize a grand anniversary gala dinner to celebrate with faculty, students, alumni and community leaders, alongside a digital commemorative booklet that recounts the University’s 35 years of outstanding achievements with society.

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About The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) (https://hkust.edu.hk/) is a world-class university known for its innovative education, research excellence, and impactful knowledge transfer. With a holistic and interdisciplinary pedagogy approach, HKUST was ranked 6th in the QS Asia University Rankings 2026, 3rd in the Times Higher Education’s Young University Rankings 2024, and 19th globally and 1st in Hong Kong in the Times Higher Education’s Impact Rankings 2025. Thirteen HKUST subjects were ranked among the world’s top 50 in the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2025, with “Data Science and Artificial Intelligence” coming in 17th worldwide and first in Hong Kong. Our graduates are highly competitive, consistently ranking among the world’s top 30 most sought-after employees. In terms of research and entrepreneurship, over 80% of our work was rated “internationally excellent” or “world leading” in the Research Assessment Exercise 2020 of the Hong Kong’s University Grants Committee. As of January 2026, HKUST members have founded over 1,900 active start-ups, including 10 Unicorns and 21 exits (IPO or M&A).

Official data released by the National Bureau of Statistics showed value-added industrial output rose 6.3 per cent year on year during January and February combined. The figure marked an acceleration from the 5.2 per cent growth recorded in December and exceeded forecasts by economists who had anticipated a more modest rise of around five per cent.

Authorities combine the first two months of the year when reporting major economic indicators to smooth distortions created by the Lunar New Year holiday, which shifts between January and February and can disrupt production schedules and consumer spending patterns.

The latest figures indicate that industrial activity remains one of the more resilient pillars of China’s economic performance. Manufacturing, mining and utilities production all contributed to the increase, with higher-value sectors linked to technology and advanced equipment manufacturing continuing to expand.

Stronger factory output came alongside moderate improvement in other key indicators. Retail sales, a broad measure of consumption, climbed 2.8 per cent during the same period, signalling some recovery in household spending after a subdued end to the previous year. Fixed-asset investment, which tracks spending on infrastructure, property and equipment, rose 1.8 per cent after contracting during 2025.

Analysts view the combination of rising industrial production and steady investment as evidence that state-backed infrastructure projects and export-oriented manufacturing are helping stabilise growth, even as other sectors continue to face pressure.

Manufacturing linked to high-technology and green industries has been a central driver of output gains. Production of computers, communications equipment and advanced machinery has expanded more rapidly than traditional heavy industries, reflecting Beijing’s push to upgrade the country’s industrial base and strengthen technological self-reliance. Data on industrial structure show that more than thirty of the country’s forty-one major manufacturing categories recorded growth during the past year, underlining the breadth of activity across sectors.

Exports have also provided support. Overseas shipments from China surged at the start of the year, led by electronics, semiconductors and equipment associated with artificial intelligence infrastructure. Robust global demand for solar panels, electric vehicles and lithium batteries has further reinforced factory activity, with these sectors often described as part of China’s emerging “new three” export engines.

Despite the stronger industrial figures, economists caution that the broader economic outlook remains uneven. Domestic consumption has not fully regained momentum, and households continue to show caution in discretionary spending. Retail sales growth, although improving, still lags behind pre-pandemic levels, highlighting lingering uncertainty among consumers.

A prolonged downturn in the property sector remains one of the most significant drags on economic confidence. Investment in real estate development has declined sharply over the past several years, and housing sales have contracted as developers grapple with high debt levels and weak buyer demand. The downturn has had ripple effects across construction, steel, cement and household goods industries, sectors traditionally linked to housing activity.

Labour market conditions also present a mixed picture. Urban unemployment rates have edged higher, with the jobless rate reaching slightly above five per cent early in the year. Rising employment pressure, particularly among younger workers and graduates, has become a focus of policy discussions as authorities seek to sustain economic stability.

Manufacturing sentiment indicators underscore these challenges. Official purchasing managers’ surveys have slipped below the expansion threshold of 50, suggesting some factories are experiencing slower order growth and cautious business expectations. Analysts note that while export-oriented companies continue to benefit from global demand, firms dependent on domestic consumption face more subdued conditions.

Beijing has set a national economic growth target of around 4.5 to 5 per cent for 2026, the lowest range in decades and a signal that policymakers are preparing for a more moderate expansion phase as structural adjustments reshape the economy. The leadership has repeatedly emphasised the need to strengthen domestic demand while maintaining technological advancement and industrial upgrading.

Infrastructure spending remains a key policy lever. Local governments have accelerated projects in transportation networks, energy systems and digital infrastructure, helping sustain industrial demand for materials and equipment. Investment in strategic industries, including renewable energy and advanced manufacturing, continues to receive policy support.

Global developments also weigh on the outlook. Geopolitical tensions and fluctuations in energy prices could affect trade flows and production costs, while shifting trade policies among major economies present another layer of uncertainty for exporters.

• 63 percent of industrial leaders in Malaysia have already invested in energy efficiency and a further 33 percent plan to within 12 months – yet results remain fragmented and uneven

• Energy consumes 25 percent of operating costs in Malaysia, and 61 percent say rising costs threaten profitability – but barriers have shifted since 2022, from cost to data, skills and organizational silos

• Digital readiness in Malaysia reaches 84 percent, and 85 percent agree total cost of ownership should guide investment in energy efficiency – however, only 42 percent consistently apply this approach

KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA – Media OutReach Newswire – 16 March 2026 – Energy efficiency has become a board‑level margin and risk issue, but many industrial organizations in Malaysia are struggling to turn intent into sustained results, according to a new report from ABB.

Based on a survey of 2,700 senior decision‑makers across 15 countries and 15 industries, the study, developed in partnership with Sapio Research, finds that 63 percent of respondents in Malaysia have already invested in energy efficiency and a further 33 percent plan to within the next 12 months. Yet, progress is increasingly constrained by execution gaps.

Energy accounts for 25 percent of operating costs on average in Malaysia, and 61 percent of companies say rising energy costs continue to threaten profitability. For executives, the challenge has shifted from reacting to price spikes to managing persistent price volatility and structural exposure.

Compared to the global average, Malaysia shows an average energy cost burden (25% vs 25% globally), above-average profitability threat perception (61% vs 59% globally), and the highest level globally of digital readiness (84% vs 67% globally).

“Energy efficiency has become a foundation for business continuity, compliance, and long-term value creation. It’s a condition for market access,” explains S Kanavati, Vice President, Motion Services, ABB Malaysia Sdn Bhd. “Today, leaders care about optimizing energy use. What they struggle with is deployment, at scale, and over time.”

Execution, not intent, is now the differentiator

The study shows that digital readiness in Malaysia has reached 84 percent, with respondents already using or ready to deploy digital energy‑management tools. However, readiness alone does not guarantee results. Only 42 percent of Malaysia companies consistently apply total cost of ownership (TCO) when making investment decisions – despite 85 percent agreeing it should guide purchasing.

At the same time, responsibility for energy efficiency remains fragmented across executive management, operations, sustainability, maintenance and finance, with no single function clearly accountable.

“The barriers to energy efficiency have fundamentally changed,” adds Pearl Ong, Regional Service Manager, Asia, Motion Services, ABB Malaysia Sdn Bhd. ” Cost is no longer the main blocker for many organizations globally – it has fallen from 50 percent to 43 percent since 2022. What’s holding companies back now are organizational silos, skills gaps and a lack of usable data. That’s a critical inflection point. It tells us the challenge is helping businesses turn intent into repeatable execution.”

In Malaysia, the most significant barriers to energy efficiency are the costs (54%), the potential for downtime and disruption (44%), and a lack of specialist resource (36%).

Renewables alone are not enough

The research also points to a growing risk of ‘post‑renewables complacency’. Among organizations in Malaysia that have switched to renewable energy sources (43% of respondents), 37 percent report a reduced focus on energy efficiency.

While renewables lower the carbon intensity of energy, they do not reduce the volume consumed – meaning significant efficiency gains remain untapped, even for companies that have already secured green power. As a result, opportunities to strengthen resilience, control long‑term costs and reduce exposure to volatility are being left on the table.

When asked about their primary reasons for investing in energy efficiency, respondents in Malaysia said reducing energy costs (63%), complying with regulations (53%), and improving their resilience and competitiveness (49%).

The next phase of the industrial energy transition will be defined by delivery capability. While activity levels are high across businesses in Malaysia and globally, efforts remain shallow, lacking coordination and long‑term structure.

“To close the execution gap, ABB combines diagnostics with targeted modernization of motor‑driven systems, software‑based optimization tools, outcome‑based financing and lifecycle services,” concludes Pearl Ong. “End-to-end energy intelligence is another way we help industries outrun, leaner and cleaner – turning isolated initiatives into sustained performance gains.”

For the full report, visit this page.

Hashtag: #ABB

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About ABB

ABB is a global technology leader in electrification and automation, enabling a more sustainable and resource-efficient future. By connecting its engineering and digitalization expertise, ABB helps industries run at high performance, while becoming more efficient, productive and sustainable so they outperform. At ABB, we call this ‘Engineered to Outrun’. The company has over 140 years of history and around 110,000 employees worldwide. ABB’s shares are listed on the SIX Swiss Exchange (ABBN) and Nasdaq Stockholm (ABB). www.abb.com

ABB Motion, a global leader in motors and drives, is at the core of accelerating a more productive and sustainable future. We innovate and push the boundaries of technology to contribute to energy efficient, decarbonizing and circular solutions for customers, industries and societies. With our digitally enabled drives, motors and services we support our customers and partners to achieve better performance, safety and reliability. To help the world’s industries outrun – leaner and cleaner, we deliver motor-driven solutions for a wide range of applications in all industrial segments. Building on over 140 years of domain expertise in electric powertrains, our more than 23,000 employees across 100 countries learn and improve every day. go.abb/motion

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Forvis Mazars in Singapore

About Forvis Mazars in Singapore
Forvis Mazars Group SC is an independent member of Forvis Mazars Global, a leading professional services network. Operating as an internationally integrated partnership in over 100 countries and territories, Forvis Mazars Group specialises in audit, tax and advisory services. The partnership draws on the expertise and cultural understanding of over 40,000 professionals across the globe to assist clients of all sizes at every stage in their development. Forvis Mazars in Singapore is part of the Forvis Mazars Group. Our clientele benefits from the combined expertise of 400+ Singapore-based professionals and our international team.

About Forvis Mazars APAC
Present in Asia Pacific since 1997, Forvis Mazars operates in more than 15 countries and territories in the region and draws on the expertise of over 10,100 professionals in more than 60 offices. We work as one integrated team, leveraging expertise, scale and cultural understanding to deliver exceptional and tailored services in audit and accounting, as well as tax, financial advisory, outsourcing, consulting, sustainability and legal services.

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• Four new Changan models debuted in Mexico: CHANGAN Alsvin PLUS, CS35 MAX, new CS55 PLUS, and CS75 PLUS.
• With responsive powertrains, intelligent safety and spacious interiors, the four models delivered proven performance and comfort.

MEXICO CITY, MEXICO – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 March 2026 – Changan has launched four all-new upgraded models in Mexico—the CHANGAN ALSVIN PLUS sedan and three SUVs: the CS35 MAX, CS55 PLUS, and CS75 PLUS—responding to growing market demand for vehicles that integrate technology and efficiency.

Following the launch, more than 150 dealers, investors, and media had a 287-km test drive across Yucatán Peninsula as part of the 2026 Changan Global Testing Season. The route, from Cancún to Playa del Carmen via Chiquilá and Holbox, spanned highways, coastal roads, and rural paths, where stability, intelligence, safety, and long-distance comfort were proven.

Performance Meets Comfort: New Models for Every Journey

Powered by the BlueCore 3.0 engine and 7-speed DCT, the new CHANGAN CS55 PLUS delivered responsive performance across the route. Its Ark Cage body structure combined with 12 intelligent safety features, including IACC, LCC, FCW, and AEB, and 540° camera assist, provided reassuring protection on the rugged and windy jungle roads and coastal highways.

The ADAS system was also integrated into the CS75 PLUS to reduce driver fatigue, while the 37-inch triple-screen display provided easy access to navigation and entertainment. The ventilated front seats ensured comfort in temperatures exceeding 30°C, and the zero-gravity passenger seat enhanced relaxation with a massage function during extended drives.

All four models feature multi-screen smart cockpits with wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, voice control, OTA updates, and remote app control. Spacious interiors and the BlueCore 3.0 powertrain system also extend to the Alsvin PLUS and CS35 MAX, delivering a blend of performance and comfort.

Growth in Action: Changan’s Local Commitment to Mexico

In 2025, Changan achieved over 56% sales growth in Latin America, with Mexico growing 184%. In terms of local operations, a new 8,000+ m² parts warehouse, operational in early 2026, will further enhance service capacity and parts supply. Mexico has become increasingly central to Changan’s global footprint.

This commitment was on full display in Yucatán. The route captured the country’s iconic landscapes while reflecting real-world driving conditions: unpredictable weather and varied terrain. Changan’s expanded portfolio reaffirms its dedication to delivering products that combine global innovation with local needs.
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Dubai-based technology firm Solstice Data has signed a memorandum of understanding with the Kerala government to invest ₹52,600 crore in a large-scale data infrastructure project at the KINFRA Industrial Park in Mattannur, marking one of the biggest technology investments proposed for the state’s digital economy. The agreement envisions the development of advanced artificial intelligence-driven high-performance computing data centres on approximately 100 acres of land in Kannur district, a move officials say could reshape the region’s industrial profile.

The MoU was exchanged in Thiruvananthapuram between Raj Babu Thulaseedharan, Solstice Data’s country head for India, and Santhosh Koshy Thomas, managing director of Kerala Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation, commonly known as KINFRA. The signing ceremony took place in the presence of Industries Minister P Rajeev and Director of Industries P Vishnuraj, signalling strong administrative backing for the project.

Solstice Data, headquartered in Dubai, specialises in designing and operating high-performance computing facilities that support artificial intelligence applications, cloud services and large-scale data processing. The company has overseen more than sixty data-centre projects internationally, including facilities in North America. The planned Kerala campus is expected to incorporate similar advanced infrastructure, supporting large computing workloads used by artificial intelligence developers, research institutions and global technology companies.

Officials involved in the negotiations describe the proposed facility as a strategic attempt to position Kerala within the expanding global data-centre ecosystem. The investment is scheduled to be implemented over a five-to-seven-year period, with phased development of computing infrastructure and supporting utilities. Such projects typically require heavy investments in power systems, cooling technology, fibre-optic connectivity and advanced cybersecurity frameworks, all of which are considered essential to attract international technology firms that rely on reliable data-processing capacity.

Mattannur’s KINFRA Industrial Park was selected as the project site after infrastructure upgrades created additional industrial land within the complex. The park covers about 175 acres, with roughly 123 acres designated for industrial use after internal roads, power supply and other facilities were developed. Officials said the Solstice Data project will occupy the remaining 100 acres currently available for new enterprises within the park, effectively completing the industrial allocation of the site.

Kerala’s industry department has framed the project as part of a broader push to attract technology-driven investments beyond the state’s established IT corridors. While cities such as Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram host major software parks and technology campuses, northern districts have been seeking large industrial anchors to stimulate employment and infrastructure development. Officials believe a data-centre cluster could generate both direct and indirect jobs, ranging from engineering and maintenance roles to specialised positions in artificial intelligence research and cloud-computing operations.

Industries Minister P Rajeev said the planned facility is expected to open significant digital opportunities for the state’s technology ecosystem. According to government officials, the project will be developed in collaboration with local partners, potentially creating links with educational institutions, startups and software companies working in artificial intelligence and data analytics. The state has promoted digital innovation as a key pillar of its industrial strategy, aiming to expand sectors such as fintech, health-tech and data science.

Data-centre investments have gathered momentum globally as demand for computing power rises with the growth of artificial intelligence models, streaming services and cloud-based applications. Major technology companies have been building hyperscale facilities capable of handling vast quantities of data, often requiring reliable electricity supply and extensive fibre-optic connectivity. Industry analysts say regions that provide stable power networks, regulatory clarity and strong connectivity stand to attract significant investments from technology infrastructure firms.

Kerala has gradually positioned itself as a destination for knowledge-based industries through investments in IT parks, research institutions and digital-skills programmes. Earlier technology initiatives in the state have involved collaborations with global companies and overseas investors. Observers see the Solstice Data project as another example of cross-border partnerships shaping technology infrastructure, particularly with firms based in the Gulf that maintain commercial ties with southern states.

Local authorities in Kannur district view the project as a potential catalyst for broader economic activity around Mattannur, an area already connected by road networks and the nearby Kannur International Airport. Industrial planners say large technology campuses often stimulate the creation of ancillary industries including power equipment suppliers, cooling system manufacturers and digital-services firms.

Solstice Data’s decision to establish an artificial-intelligence-focused data-centre campus also reflects the intensifying competition among regions seeking to host digital infrastructure. Governments across Asia have introduced policies aimed at attracting such projects through land allocation, tax incentives and investments in high-capacity electricity grids.

• Long range, premium comfort, and five-star safety—the CHANGAN DEEPAL S05 delivers a high-tech electric driving experience.
• Cutting-edge EV technology that brings together global design, engineering, and manufacturing.

BIRMINGHAM, UK – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 March 2026 – Changan UK has launched the all-electric CHANGAN DEEPAL S05, a compact C-SUV blending premium design, intelligent technology, and everyday practicality.

“The CHANGAN DEEPAL S05 is designed for people who want an electric SUV that fits effortlessly into everyday life,” Nic Thomas, Managing Director of Changan UK, said, “It delivers reassuring performance, thoughtful comfort, and technology that simply works—all without the premium price tag. ”

The CHANGAN DEEPAL S05: Range, Comfort, Safety

Powered by a 68.8kWh LFP battery, the CHANGAN DEEPAL S05 delivers WLTP ranges of up to 303 miles (RWD) and 278 miles (AWD). Inside, the aircraft-inspired cockpit features vegan leather heated and ventilated front seats, including a full-recline zero gravity passenger seat. A 15.4-inch rotating touchscreen, AR-HUD, 14-speaker audio system, and wireless smartphone connectivity complete the high-tech cabin.

Safety is central to the CHANGAN DEEPAL S05, earning it a five-star Euro NCAP rating. It comes standard with 17 intelligent driver assistance systems, enabling L2 autonomous driving through a network of cameras, radars, and ultrasonic sensors—including a 540-degree surround-view camera system.

More Than a Model: How the CHANGAN DEEPAL S05 Embodies a Global Vision

Changan is now present in 16 European markets, with launches in Italy, Spain, and Poland coming soon. The UK anchors this footprint as a strategic hub for local development. Leading this momentum is the CHANGAN DEEPAL S05, a model built on a truly global foundation. Designed at Changan Design Center Europe in Turin and calibrated at the Changan UK R&D Centre in Birmingham, it has been meticulously tuned for local roads.

For the UK market, the CHANGAN DEEPAL S05 is produced at Changan Rayong Factory in Thailand—established in 2023 as a dedicated hub for global right-hand drive markets. With approximately 60% local sourcing, the facility ensures consistent quality, testing, and supply, while its strategic location enables worldwide logistics. More than a new model, the S05 stands as a testament to Changan’s global ambitions—integrating design, engineering, and production across continents to deliver a truly international electric vehicle.

Hashtag: #Changan

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Featuring Over 40 Interactive and Game Booths Showcasing Engineering Innovation

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 March 2026 – To celebrate its 50^th Anniversary, The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers (hereafter “the HKIE”) has organised “The HKIE ‘Together we RISE’ Carnival” (hereafter “the Carnival”) at High Lawn, Art Park, WestK. The opening ceremony took place today, officiated by Ms Bernadette LINN Hon Ho, JP, Secretary for Development of the HKSAR Government; Mr YE Shuiqiu, Deputy Director-General of the Department of Educational, Scientific and Technological Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region; Ir Ricky LAU Chun Kit, JP, Permanent Secretary for Development (Works); and Ir The Hon Aaron BOK Kwok Ming, Legislative Council Member (Functional Constituency – Engineering) cum Past President of the HKIE. They were joined by Ir Alice CHOW, President of the HKIE; Ir Prof Frank CHAN Fan, GBS, JP, Senior Vice President of the HKIE; Ir Rupert LEUNG Kwok Yiu, Vice President of the HKIE; Ir William LUK Wai Lam, Vice President of the HKIE and Ir Prof Alfred SIT Wing Hang, GBS, JP, Chief Executive and Secretary of the HKIE to kick off this two-day event.

With the theme “Together we RISE”, the Carnival aims to highlight the engineering profession’s outstanding contributions to social progress, technological innovation, and sustainable development. Running from 14-15 March, the Carnival features over 40 interactive booths and game zones designed by various organisations and HKIE divisions. The booths showcase exciting innovations including robot and robot dog demonstrations, model displays, VR experiences, UAV flight simulators, a water pumping robot, and more, offering enjoyable, hands-on exploration of the diversity and fun of engineering for the whole family over the weekend.

The Carnival also features a travelling exhibition, “Engineering Legacy: 50 Years of Excellence”, celebrating 19 excellent engineering projects honoured with The HKIE 50th Anniversary Legacy Award. The exhibition highlights the remarkable achievements and milestones that have shaped Hong Kong’s engineering landscape over the past five decades. In addition, the winning entries from the “Together we RISE” school competition held by the HKIE earlier will be showcased, reflecting the creativity and imagination of the younger generation in building sustainable and innovative cities.

Ir Alice CHOW, President of The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, remarked, “The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers has grown alongside Hong Kong over the past 50 years, witnessing and contributing to many of the city’s landmark infrastructure and urban development projects. Through the Carnival, we hope the public can gain a deeper understanding of the vital role engineers play in society, while inspiring the younger generation’s interest and creativity in the engineering profession. ‘Together we RISE’ is not just a theme; it also expresses our commitment to fostering innovation, uniting the industry, and building the future, leveraging Hong Kong’s unique advantages of being ‘backed by our motherland and connected to the world’!”

The HKIE 50^th Anniversary “Together we RISE” Carnival

Hashtag: #HKIE

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About the HKIE

The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers (HKIE) – previously The Engineering Society of Hong Kong – was founded in 1947. In 1975, the HKIE was incorporated under The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers Ordinance, Chapter 1105 of the Laws of Hong Kong. Today the HKIE has over 32,000 members, of which around 17,000 are Corporate Members.

The Institution aims to bring together engineers of different disciplines for their common good. The HKIE is committed to upholding the quality of membership, and sets standards for the training and admission of engineers from 22 engineering disciplines. It also has strict rules governing members’ conduct and is dedicated to raising the ethical standards of professional engineers in Hong Kong. For more information about the HKIE, please visit https://hkie.org.hk

Bosch SDS and NxtGen Datacenter & Cloud Technologies have unveiled plans to launch a sovereign artificial intelligence cloud platform designed to accelerate Industry 4.0 adoption across India’s manufacturing and industrial sectors. The initiative aims to give enterprises secure domestic infrastructure for deploying advanced AI applications, including predictive maintenance, asset optimisation and real-time industrial data orchestration from factory floors to cloud platforms.

The partnership brings together Bosch’s software and digital engineering capabilities with NxtGen’s hyperscale data-centre infrastructure and managed cloud services. Executives involved in the project say the platform is intended to address a growing demand among industrial companies for locally hosted AI environments that comply with national data sovereignty expectations while enabling modern digital manufacturing systems.

Manufacturers across sectors such as automotive, energy, logistics and heavy engineering are increasing investment in AI-driven automation as global supply chains shift toward greater efficiency and resilience. Analysts say many firms are seeking platforms capable of processing large volumes of machine data generated by connected sensors, robotics systems and industrial equipment. The Bosch–NxtGen cloud aims to provide such capabilities by linking edge computing devices installed on factory floors with secure domestic cloud infrastructure.

Industry 4.0 technologies depend heavily on real-time analytics and machine learning models trained on operational data from equipment and production lines. Engineers use these tools to forecast equipment failures, schedule maintenance more efficiently and optimise energy use in industrial facilities. Bosch SDS has developed software frameworks and digital twin technologies designed to model industrial processes, while NxtGen operates data centres capable of hosting high-performance computing and AI workloads.

Executives from both companies say the sovereign AI cloud will enable manufacturers to run advanced analytics while ensuring sensitive operational data remains within national boundaries. Data localisation requirements have become an important consideration for companies adopting AI technologies, particularly in sectors linked to critical infrastructure and strategic industries.

Industrial data orchestration represents a central component of the project. Factories typically generate vast amounts of information from sensors embedded in machines, assembly lines and supply-chain systems. The new platform aims to unify these streams into a single architecture that allows companies to analyse operational patterns and automate decision-making across production networks.

Predictive maintenance stands among the most prominent applications expected to benefit. Machine-learning models trained on historical equipment data can detect early warning signs of mechanical problems before breakdowns occur. Companies adopting such systems report improvements in production uptime and reductions in maintenance costs. Asset optimisation tools can also adjust equipment performance dynamically based on real-time operational conditions, helping plants operate more efficiently.

Bosch SDS, a digital engineering and IT services division of the Bosch Group, has built a strong presence in industrial software development, automotive electronics and embedded systems. The organisation provides engineering services to manufacturing clients globally and has increasingly expanded into artificial intelligence and Internet of Things technologies.

NxtGen Datacenter & Cloud Technologies operates hyperscale data-centre infrastructure in several metropolitan regions and provides cloud platforms designed for enterprise workloads requiring high performance and data security. The company has promoted the concept of sovereign cloud infrastructure as governments and corporations seek greater control over digital assets and regulatory compliance.

Demand for domestic cloud infrastructure has expanded as companies become more cautious about where critical data is stored and processed. Sovereign cloud environments typically guarantee that data remains within a country’s jurisdiction and that infrastructure operators comply with local legal frameworks. Such models have gained traction among governments and enterprises concerned about cross-border data transfer risks.

Industrial companies are also moving toward hybrid architectures combining edge computing and centralised cloud platforms. Edge devices located inside factories can process sensor data close to the source, enabling immediate operational responses, while cloud platforms provide the computing power required for large-scale analytics and machine-learning training. Integrating these environments allows enterprises to monitor production lines in real time while developing predictive insights from aggregated data.

Artificial intelligence adoption within manufacturing has accelerated as companies pursue automation and efficiency gains. Industrial AI applications include quality control using computer vision, supply-chain forecasting, energy-efficiency optimisation and autonomous robotics. Technology providers see manufacturing as one of the largest growth markets for AI deployments because factories generate extensive data suitable for machine-learning models.

Digital transformation initiatives in India’s industrial sector have gained momentum as manufacturers attempt to strengthen global competitiveness. Government-backed programmes promoting advanced manufacturing and smart factories have encouraged investment in automation, robotics and digital infrastructure. Large technology firms and industrial groups have launched multiple projects aimed at building domestic platforms capable of supporting AI-driven manufacturing systems.

Bosch and NxtGen executives say the sovereign AI cloud will provide enterprises with tools to modernise legacy manufacturing operations while maintaining strict security and governance standards. Industrial clients are expected to gain access to modular services including AI development environments, digital twin simulations and scalable computing resources tailored to industrial workloads.

Technology analysts note that partnerships combining industrial engineering expertise with specialised cloud infrastructure have become increasingly common as companies seek to accelerate digital transformation. Providers that can integrate operational technology systems with enterprise cloud platforms are viewed as well positioned to serve manufacturers adopting Industry 4.0 strategies.

Government plans to establish an $11 billion fund aimed at accelerating semiconductor development, a move designed to strengthen the country’s position in the global electronics supply chain and reduce dependence on imported chips. The proposed initiative, valued at more than ₹1 trillion, is under active discussion and could be unveiled within months as part of a broader push to expand domestic technology manufacturing.

Semiconductors form the backbone of modern technology, powering devices ranging from smartphones and laptops to vehicles, industrial equipment and artificial intelligence systems. Officials believe the new fund will provide subsidies for chip design, semiconductor manufacturing equipment and the development of supporting supply chains, while encouraging investment from both domestic conglomerates and international technology companies.

Policy planners view the programme as a key step in transforming the country into a major centre for semiconductor manufacturing and design. Industry specialists say the fund would complement earlier government initiatives aimed at building a full semiconductor ecosystem, including design, fabrication, assembly, testing and packaging capabilities.

The proposal builds on earlier efforts launched in 2021 under the semiconductor incentive scheme, which earmarked about $10 billion to attract chip manufacturers and component makers. That programme sought to cover a significant share of the capital costs associated with establishing fabrication and assembly plants, a strategy widely adopted by governments worldwide seeking to secure technology supply chains.

Authorities have framed semiconductor development as a strategic priority amid rising global demand for advanced electronics. The push is also tied to ambitions of expanding the domestic electronics manufacturing sector, which has grown rapidly over the past decade as multinational companies diversify production away from traditional manufacturing hubs.

Major industrial projects linked to this strategy are already underway. A semiconductor assembly and testing facility led by Tata Group in the northeast is expected to become one of the country’s first large-scale chip processing plants, while U. S. firm Micron is developing a packaging facility valued at about $2.7 billion. These projects represent early steps toward creating an integrated semiconductor ecosystem spanning design, fabrication and advanced packaging.

Other proposals include joint ventures between technology firms and global chipmakers. One such project involves a partnership between HCL Group and Taiwan’s Foxconn to establish a semiconductor unit near Jewar airport in Uttar Pradesh. The facility is designed to produce display driver chips used in consumer electronics and could reach an output of tens of millions of units annually once operational.

Government officials have also focused on strengthening the talent pipeline required for the semiconductor industry. A national programme known as “Chips to Startups” aims to train around 85,000 engineers in chip design across more than 300 academic institutions, reflecting recognition that workforce development is critical for sustaining a competitive semiconductor sector.

Industry leaders note that chip manufacturing remains one of the most capital-intensive segments of the technology economy. Fabrication plants require investments that can exceed $10 billion, along with long development timelines and highly specialised expertise. As a result, government subsidies and strategic partnerships are widely seen as essential for building a viable domestic semiconductor base.

Global competition in the semiconductor sector has intensified as governments race to secure supply chains for critical technologies. The United States has enacted multi-billion-dollar incentives through its CHIPS and Science Act, while China continues to channel state funding into chip design and manufacturing. Similar programmes have emerged in Europe, Japan and South Korea, underscoring the geopolitical significance of semiconductor production.

Economic planners argue that strengthening chip capabilities could support broader industrial growth, particularly in sectors such as electric vehicles, telecommunications, defence electronics and artificial intelligence infrastructure. Demand for semiconductors is expected to surge as digitalisation spreads across industries and emerging technologies such as machine learning, cloud computing and smart devices expand globally.

Technology companies have shown growing interest in establishing operations in the country as electronics manufacturing scales up. Smartphone assembly has expanded sharply, with global firms increasing production capacity and boosting exports, reflecting a shift in supply chains that had previously centred heavily on East Asia.

Private investment in semiconductor start-ups has also gained momentum. State-backed funds and regional initiatives have begun supporting chip design ventures working on networking processors and communications hardware, signalling a move toward building indigenous intellectual property alongside manufacturing capacity.

Challenges remain significant. Establishing advanced chip fabrication facilities requires complex infrastructure, steady power supply, large water resources and access to specialised equipment dominated by a small number of global suppliers. Analysts say progress will depend on sustained policy support, long-term financing and collaboration with established semiconductor companies.