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According to Trip.com, improved accessibility, a vibrant food scene, and the availability of first-timer-friendly destinations are contributing to this trend.

Among the key drivers is Chimelong Resort, a leading entertainment and hospitality brand in China, known for its integrated resort model combining theme parks, marine attractions and safari experiences. These offerings position the resort as a one-stop destination for travelers seeking diverse experiences ranging from thrill rides to wildlife encounters.

At Chimelong Ocean Kingdom in Zhuhai Hengqin, visitors can explore marine attractions through a panoramic aquarium viewing panel measuring 8.3 meters in height and 39.6 meters in width. Signature experiences include the “Polar Explorer” roller coaster, which simulates travel through icy terrain, and the interactive “Battle of the Pirates” water-based attraction, offering seasonal family entertainment.

The Chimelong Spaceship, a space-themed indoor marine science park, is marketed as one of the world’s largest indoor amusement parks, combining marine life exhibits such as orcas with immersive attractions including the “Bermuda Storm” motion simulator and “Deep Sea Submarine.”

In Guangzhou, Chimelong Safari Park features over 300 species of animals, including the world’s only surviving giant panda triplets — Mengmeng, Shuaishuai and Kuku, representing a milestone in panda conservation. In late 2024, Mengmeng gave birth to a cub, Mei Zhu, further enhancing the park’s appeal to visitors.

Trip.com data indicates increasing interest in family-friendly attractions, edutainment experiences and wildlife tourism, with integrated resorts playing a central role in itinerary planning.

Through its platform, Trip.com enables seamless booking of transportation, accommodation, attraction tickets and travel packages, offering a one-stop travel solution. Indicative pricing available on the platform includes:

• Chimelong Safari Park one-day ticket: RM240.19
• Chimelong Ocean Kingdom one-day ticket: RM315.69

Booking information available via Trip.com

Accommodation options across Chimelong resorts further support diversified travel needs. In Guangzhou, visitors can choose from Chimelong Hotel, Chimelong Xiangjiang Hotel and Chimelong Panda Hotel, featuring themes such as wildlife, Lingnan culture and family-oriented panda experiences.

In Zhuhai Hengqin, accommodation options include Chimelong Spaceship Hotel, Chimelong Penguin Hotel, Chimelong Hengqin Bay Hotel and Chimelong Circus Hotel, catering to a wide range of traveler preferences.

As demand for experiential and integrated travel continues to grow, Trip.com expects destinations such as Chimelong Resort to remain key drivers of China’s tourism development.

Hashtag: #Tripcom

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

Under the partnership, Etiqa Insurance Singapore’s suite of Shariah-compliant Family Takaful products will be distributed through AIA Singapore and AIA Financial Advisers, the nation’s largest tied distribution channel comprising more than 6,300 highly professional, qualified AIA insurance representatives. This expanded reach significantly increases accessibility and choice for customers seeking principled and values-aligned protection and savings options.

Growing Demand for Values-Based Financial Solutions

Global demand for Takaful continues to rise as consumers increasingly prioritise financial solutions aligned with their personal values. The global Takaful market is projected to grow from US$36.5 billion in 2025 to US$63.6 billion by 2030, representing a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.7%[1]. Since launching its Takaful offerings, Etiqa Insurance Singapore has seen strong and accelerating momentum, supported by rising consumer awareness and growing confidence in Shariah-compliant financial protection.

Creating a Unified Takaful Ecosystem in Singapore

The partnership brings together the complementary strengths of both insurers to build a more cohesive and accessible Takaful ecosystem:

• Etiqa Insurance Singapore — The pioneer in reintroducing Takaful insurance to Singapore after more than a decade, with deep expertise and a dedicated Shariah advisory framework.
• AIA Singapore — One of the nation’s leading life and health insurers with extensive distribution capabilities, broad community reach and a diverse customer base.

Together, the two organisations are positioned to significantly expand the availability, understanding and adoption of Takaful solutions in Singapore.

“This partnership marks an important step in advancing access to Shariah-compliant protection and savings solutions in Singapore,” said Claudia Soh, Acting Chief Executive Officer, Etiqa Insurance Singapore. “By leveraging AIA’s extensive distribution network and strong presence within the Muslim community, we can scale Takaful solutions more effectively and reach customer groups that have historically been underserved. As demand for values-aligned financial planning grows, this collaboration reinforces our commitment to inclusive and responsible insurance.”

“This partnership with Etiqa is a pivotal step in our commitment to inclusivity and we are excited to work together,” said Alvin Fu, Chief Distribution Officer, AIA Singapore. “By integrating Etiqa’s Shariah-compliant expertise with our highly professional AIA insurance representatives, we can serve a wider customer base, close protection gaps and help more families live Healthier, Longer, Better Lives.”

Bringing Takaful to the Masses

While rooted in Islamic principles, Shariah-compliant, values-based Takaful solutions serve a broad spectrum of customers and appeal to increasingly values-driven consumers seeking ethical, transparent and socially responsible financial protection and savings solutions beyond the Muslim community.

Beyond distribution, Etiqa Insurance Singapore shares a long-term commitment to raising awareness, understanding and adoption of Takaful solutions across Singapore. Through educational programmes and community engagement initiatives, the partnership aims to enhance financial literacy, deepen understanding of Takaful principles and bring Takaful education directly to underserved communities, empowering consumers to make informed decisions on protection and savings.

Hashtag: #EtiqaSingapore #EtiqaSG

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Etiqa Insurance Pte. Ltd (Etiqa Insurance Singapore)

Etiqa Insurance Pte. Ltd. (EIPL) is a life and general insurance company licensed and regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and governed by the Insurance Act 1966. Having protected customers in Singapore since 1961 under the name United General Insurance Co. Sdn. Bhd., the company transitioned into the Singapore branch of Etiqa Insurance Berhad in 2009. Today, EIPL in Singapore stands as the pivotal operating entity of Etiqa Insurance Group, a leading insurance and takaful provider in ASEAN.

EIPL offers a comprehensive range of life and general insurance products accessible through its diverse distribution channels, including bancassurance, agents, brokers, financial advisers, partnerships, direct and online sales via Tiq by Etiqa. Etiqa is rated ‘A’ by credit rating agency Fitch for the group’s ‘Favorable’ business profile. EIPL is owned by Maybank Ageas Holdings Berhad, a joint venture combining local market expertise with international insurance knowledge, with 69% ownership by Maybank, the fourth largest banking group in Southeast Asia, and 31% by Ageas, an international insurance group operating across 13 countries.

About AIA

AIA Group Limited and its subsidiaries (collectively “AIA” or the “Group”) comprise the largest independent publicly listed pan-Asian life insurance group. It has a presence in 18 markets – wholly-owned branches and subsidiaries in Mainland China, Hong Kong SAR[2], Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, Cambodia, Indonesia, Myanmar, New Zealand, the Philippines, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan (China), Vietnam, Brunei and Macau SAR[3], and a 49 per cent joint venture in India. In addition, AIA has a 24.99 per cent shareholding in China Post Life Insurance Co., Ltd.

The business that is now AIA was first established in Shanghai more than a century ago in 1919. It is a market leader in Asia (ex-Japan) based on life insurance premiums and holds leading positions across the majority of its markets. It had total assets of US$345 billion as of 31 December 2025.

AIA meets the long-term savings and protection needs of individuals by offering a range of products and services including life insurance, accident and health insurance and savings plans. The Group also provides employee benefits, credit life and pension services to corporate clients. Through an extensive network of agents, partners and employees across Asia, AIA serves the holders of more than 44 million individual policies and over 16 million participating members of group insurance schemes.

AIA Group Limited is listed on the Main Board of The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited under the stock codes “1299” for HKD counter and “81299” for RMB counter with American Depositary Receipts (Level 1) traded on the over-the-counter market under the ticker symbol “AAGIY”.

Officials and defence analysts indicate that the refusal centres on highly sensitive software governing the aircraft’s Active Electronically Scanned Array radar, mission computer architecture and the SPECTRA electronic warfare suite. These components underpin the Rafale’s operational edge, enabling advanced targeting, threat detection and real-time combat adaptability. Without access to underlying code, local engineers face restrictions in modifying or upgrading the systems independently.

The development comes at a time when the Air Force is seeking greater flexibility to integrate indigenous weapons, sensors and software into imported platforms. The Rafale fleet, inducted under an intergovernmental agreement signed in 2016, is widely regarded as one of the most capable multirole assets in service. However, the absence of deep software access limits the scope for customisation beyond manufacturer-approved pathways.

Defence planners have long sought to reduce reliance on foreign vendors for mission-critical technologies, particularly software-defined systems that determine how aircraft perform in evolving combat scenarios. The inability to access core programming frameworks means that even incremental upgrades—such as adapting radar modes or integrating new missile systems—must be routed through the original manufacturer, potentially adding time, cost and operational constraints.

French authorities have maintained that certain technologies embedded within the Rafale are protected by stringent export controls and intellectual property safeguards. Industry sources suggest that this position reflects a broader policy followed by advanced aerospace manufacturers, who rarely transfer full software control of high-end combat platforms. Such restrictions are often justified on grounds of security, technological advantage and contractual obligations tied to proprietary systems.

For New Delhi, the issue extends beyond a single aircraft programme. It underscores a structural challenge in defence procurement, where imported platforms may offer cutting-edge capabilities but limit sovereign control over upgrades and lifecycle management. Analysts argue that the balance between immediate capability acquisition and long-term autonomy has become increasingly complex as modern warfare shifts towards software-centric systems.

The Rafale’s SPECTRA suite, in particular, has drawn attention due to its role in electronic warfare and survivability. Designed to detect, identify and counter threats ranging from radar locks to missile engagements, the system operates through highly classified algorithms. Without access to these algorithms, domestic agencies are unable to independently adapt the suite to emerging threat environments or tailor it to specific operational theatres.

Similarly, the AESA radar’s performance is closely tied to software-defined modes that govern target tracking, electronic counter-countermeasures and situational awareness. Integrating locally developed weapons or sensors requires compatibility at the software level, which becomes challenging when access is restricted. Defence experts note that while some integration is possible through interface agreements, deeper optimisation remains dependent on the original equipment manufacturer.

The issue has also revived debate over the country’s broader push for self-reliance in defence production. Programmes aimed at developing indigenous fighter aircraft, avionics and electronic warfare systems have gained momentum, yet gaps remain in high-end technologies. The Rafale case is being cited by some policymakers as evidence of the need to accelerate domestic research and reduce dependence on external suppliers for core technologies.

At the same time, others caution against overstating the dispute, noting that limitations on source code access are common in international defence deals. They argue that operational effectiveness is not necessarily compromised, as manufacturers continue to provide upgrades and support under contractual arrangements. The Rafale fleet has demonstrated strong performance in exercises and deployments, reinforcing its value as a frontline asset.

Diplomatic considerations are also at play. France has been a key defence partner, with cooperation spanning submarines, helicopters and space technologies. The Rafale agreement itself was seen as a milestone in bilateral ties, reflecting a high degree of strategic trust. Any friction over technology transfer is therefore likely to be managed within the broader framework of long-standing cooperation.

Industry observers point out that negotiations over technology access often involve trade-offs between cost, capability and control. Full access to source codes would significantly alter the commercial and strategic dynamics of defence exports, potentially affecting pricing structures and intellectual property protections. As a result, such concessions are rarely granted, even to close partners.

The episode highlights a growing reality in modern military aviation, where software defines capability as much as hardware. Control over code translates into control over upgrades, interoperability and operational doctrine. For countries seeking to maintain strategic autonomy, this raises fundamental questions about how to structure future procurement and development strategies.

The vessels, loaded with LPG cargoes, are following a path similar to that taken by earlier ships that received clearance to transit the narrow waterway. Industry observers say hugging the Iranian side of the strait may reflect efforts to minimise exposure to potential risks amid heightened scrutiny of maritime movements in the region. The Strait of Hormuz, through which a significant share of global oil and gas exports passes, has long been vulnerable to disruption during periods of political friction.

Shipping analysts note that the altered routing strategy has become more visible as operators weigh safety considerations against the need to maintain steady energy flows. The decision to steer closer to Iran’s coast does not necessarily indicate a change in official navigation guidelines but highlights the adaptability of commercial shipping in response to perceived threats. Maritime insurers and charterers have been closely monitoring developments, with premiums and risk assessments adjusting in line with evolving conditions.

India’s reliance on imported LPG has grown steadily over the past decade, driven by expanding domestic consumption and government-backed programmes aimed at increasing access to cleaner cooking fuels. As a result, uninterrupted maritime supply chains are critical for meeting demand. The movement of Indian-flagged vessels through Hormuz carries added significance given the country’s position as a major energy importer and its exposure to volatility in global shipping lanes.

The route taken by these vessels follows earlier transits that were understood to have been cleared through established maritime coordination channels. While no formal restrictions have been imposed on passage through the strait, heightened alert levels in surrounding waters have prompted shipowners to adopt precautionary measures. These include adjustments to sailing speeds, increased onboard vigilance, and coordination with naval authorities in the region.

Tensions in West Asia have periodically raised concerns about the security of shipping through Hormuz. Episodes involving vessel seizures, drone activity, and naval manoeuvres have reinforced the strategic sensitivity of the waterway. Although large-scale disruptions have been avoided, even limited incidents can have ripple effects across global energy markets, influencing freight rates, insurance costs, and delivery schedules.

Market participants indicate that LPG shipments have remained largely uninterrupted, but logistical complexities have increased. Charter rates for gas carriers have shown signs of volatility, reflecting both demand dynamics and risk premiums associated with transiting high-risk zones. Traders and refiners are factoring in longer voyage times and potential delays when planning cargo movements.

Officials and industry executives emphasise that international maritime law guarantees freedom of navigation through straits used for international transit, including Hormuz. However, the practical execution of that principle often depends on the prevailing security environment. Naval patrols by regional and international forces continue to play a role in deterring threats and ensuring safe passage for commercial vessels.

Energy analysts point out that India sources LPG from multiple suppliers, including producers in West Asia and beyond, making the Hormuz route indispensable. Any sustained disruption could have implications for domestic supply chains, pricing, and inventory management. At the same time, diversification strategies, including alternative sourcing and storage capacity expansion, are being explored to mitigate potential risks.

The movement of the two LPG carriers also reflects broader trends in global shipping behaviour, where operators increasingly rely on real-time intelligence and data analytics to inform routing decisions. Advances in vessel tracking and communication technologies have enhanced situational awareness, enabling more responsive navigation strategies in sensitive regions.

Shipping companies have also strengthened coordination with flag states and port authorities to ensure compliance with safety advisories and regulatory requirements. Crew training and contingency planning have gained prominence, with a focus on preparedness for a range of scenarios, from mechanical issues to security incidents.

SIM Academy (SIMA), the professional development arm of the Singapore Institute of Management, offers programmes that support several capability areas highlighted in Singapore’s workforce insights. According to SkillsFuture Singapore’s Skills Demand for the Future Economy report, emerging demand is being shaped by growth in the digital, green and care economies, alongside transferable capabilities such as business management and data-related skills. These trends reflect the increasing importance of capabilities such as data and artificial intelligence literacy, cyber resilience awareness, sustainability and ESG knowledge, project management and delivery, as well as risk management and strategic planning. SIMA’s professional development programmes are designed to help working professionals build competencies in these areas as organisations adapt to technological change and sustainability priorities.

Global labour market analysis supports this shift. The World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report identifies AI and big data, networks and cybersecurity, and technological literacy among the fastest growing skills worldwide as organisations adopt digital technologies and automation.

In Singapore, workforce insights from SkillsFuture Singapore SSG and Workforce Singapore WSG highlight growing demand for skills aligned with the digital, green and care economies, alongside transferable competencies such as project management, risk assessment and digital tool proficiency.

Among the emerging capabilities, data and AI literacy is becoming increasingly important across industries as organisations adopt data driven decision making and artificial intelligence enabled tools. According to the World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report, AI and big data are among the fastest growing skill areas globally as companies accelerate digital transformation. In Singapore, organisations including small and medium sized enterprises are also exploring practical ways to adopt AI in their operations. To support this need, SIM Academy offers programmes focused on digital innovation and emerging technologies. These include AI.dea: An AI Bridge Programme, developed in collaboration with Singtel, that helps SMEs develop actionable AI adoption strategies and prepare for scalable AI implementation.

Another skill gaining prominence is cybersecurity, which increasingly affects organisations of all sizes and sectors. In Singapore, the growing importance of cybersecurity skills is reflected in national workforce and digital economy priorities. SIM Academy supports capability building in this area through selected programmes for different audiences. These include Cyber Resilience programmes for corporate learners, as well as cybersecurity training offered under the SkillsFuture Career Transition Programme SCTP. Together, these programmes support workforce development in cybersecurity and organisational resilience in an increasingly digital operating environment.

Singapore’s sustainability agenda is also shaping workforce needs. With the government advancing initiatives under the Singapore Green Plan 2030, businesses are strengthening capabilities related to sustainability strategy and ESG practices. SIM Academy offers sustainability focused programmes such as Life Cycle Assessment for Sustainability, which equips professionals with knowledge in LCA frameworks, enhance sustainability decision-making and strategic sustainability and compliance.

Organisations are also prioritising risk management and strategic planning capabilities as they navigate evolving geopolitical, technological and economic uncertainties. SIM Academy’s leadership and management programmes help professionals develop strategic thinking, systems leadership and decision making capabilities relevant to today’s complex business environment.

SIMA offers more than 300 professional development courses across areas such as management and leadership, digital innovation and sustainability. These programmes are designed to support working professionals in upgrading their skills and staying competitive in a rapidly changing economy.

References:

1. SIM Academy Professional Development – https://www.sim.edu.sg/professional-development/overview
2. SIM Academy Course Listings – https://www.sim.edu.sg/professional-development/courses/course-listing
3. Life Cycle Assessment for Sustainable Organisation – https://www.sim.edu.sg/professional-development/courses/course-listing/life-cycle-assessment-for-sustainable-organisations
4. PMP Prep Course – https://www.sim.edu.sg/professional-development/courses/course-listing/project-management-professional-pmp-l4-sfw
5. World Economic Forum Future of Jobs Report – https://www.weforum.org/publications/the-future-of-jobs-report-2025/
6. SkillsFuture Singapore Skills Demand for the Future Economy Report – https://jobsandskills.skillsfuture.gov.sg/insights/sdfe
7. Singapore Green Plan 2030 – https://www.greenplan.gov.sg/
8. SkillsFuture Singapore Green Skills Committee Report – https://www.ssg.gov.sg/newsroom/green-skills-committee-report-identifies-green-skills-and-training-pathways-needed-for-a-low-carbon-economy-/
9. Ministry of Education / SkillsFuture Singapore speech on skills demand – https://www.moe.gov.sg/news/speeches/20250122-opening-address-by-ms-gan-siow-huang-minister-of-state-ministry-of-education-for-the-launch-of-the-skills-demand-for-the-future-economy-report-2025-marina-bay-sands-expo-and-convention-centre
10. MyCareersFuture CareersCompass insights on future skills – https://content.mycareersfuture.gov.sg/futureproof-career-top-demand-skills-2025/

Hashtag: #SIMAcademy #SIMA

https://www.sim.edu.sg/

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About SIM Academy

SIM Academy provides leading-edge professional development and enterprise solutions. SIM Academy offers over 300 executive and business programmes that help almost 10,000 professionals annually on average hone their competencies to drive business value and achieve peak personal and enterprise performance.

Our programmes encompass a comprehensive range of lifelong learning opportunities designed to empower professionals with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to become effective change-makers and leaders in today’s volatile and uncertain business landscape.

For more information on SIM Academy, visit sim.edu.sg

Phuket is consolidating its reputation as a stable and secure residential destination for international families, driven by rising long-haul connectivity, sustained property demand, and the continued expansion of integrated communities such as Laguna Phuket.

Developers and market observers point to a steady influx of buyers from Europe, the Middle East and parts of Asia, many seeking second homes or relocation options that combine lifestyle appeal with perceived safety and infrastructure reliability. The island’s positioning has strengthened as global travel networks stabilise, with airlines restoring and expanding direct routes that reduce dependence on regional transit hubs.

Property agents report that demand for villas and managed residences has remained resilient despite broader economic uncertainties. Buyers are increasingly prioritising privacy, security and access to international-standard amenities, including healthcare and education, factors that have become central to relocation decisions among globally mobile families. This shift has contributed to sustained price support in premium segments, even as other markets experience fluctuations linked to interest rate pressures.

Laguna Phuket, one of Southeast Asia’s largest integrated resort developments, continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the island’s residential narrative. The area has expanded beyond its origins as a resort complex into a mixed-use community offering branded residences, leisure facilities and infrastructure tailored to long-term living. Industry analysts note that such master-planned developments provide a level of predictability and governance that appeals to foreign buyers navigating unfamiliar regulatory environments.

Thailand’s regulatory framework for foreign ownership remains a key consideration, with condominium purchases offering a more straightforward pathway than landed property. Developers have adapted by structuring projects to align with legal constraints, including leasehold arrangements and managed ownership models. Market participants say this flexibility has allowed Phuket to remain competitive with regional alternatives such as Bali and parts of the Gulf, where regulatory regimes differ but competition for affluent expatriates is intensifying.

Connectivity has emerged as another critical driver. Phuket International Airport has seen a gradual expansion of long-haul routes linking the island to major cities in Europe and the Middle East. Airlines have responded to sustained leisure demand by maintaining seasonal services for longer periods and, in some cases, converting them into year-round operations. This has enhanced accessibility for families seeking to maintain ties with home countries while residing abroad.

Education infrastructure has also expanded, with international schools on the island broadening curricula and increasing capacity. Institutions offering British, American and international baccalaureate programmes have reported rising enrolments, reflecting a more permanent expatriate population rather than short-term visitors. Healthcare services have followed a similar trajectory, with private hospitals investing in facilities and specialist care aimed at international residents.

Security and governance remain central to Phuket’s appeal. Local authorities have emphasised public safety measures and infrastructure upgrades, including road improvements and utilities management, to support population growth. While Thailand’s broader political landscape has seen periods of uncertainty, Phuket’s tourism-driven economy and established administrative structures have provided a degree of continuity valued by investors.

Economic diversification has added another layer to the island’s evolution. Although tourism remains the dominant sector, ancillary industries such as wellness, digital services and remote work hubs have expanded. The rise of remote working has encouraged a segment of professionals to relocate for extended periods, blending lifestyle considerations with employment flexibility. This has reinforced demand for properties designed for year-round occupancy rather than seasonal use.

Pricing dynamics reflect this transition. High-end villa developments and branded residences have seen consistent interest, with some projects reporting strong pre-sales activity. At the same time, mid-market segments have experienced more moderate growth, suggesting a bifurcation driven by buyer profiles. Developers are responding by tailoring offerings to distinct segments, from luxury beachfront estates to compact units suited for remote professionals.

Environmental considerations are increasingly shaping development strategies. Concerns about overdevelopment, waste management and coastal preservation have prompted calls for stricter planning controls. Some projects have incorporated sustainability features such as energy-efficient design and water management systems, aligning with global trends and buyer expectations. Balancing growth with environmental protection remains a challenge, particularly as demand continues to rise.

Competition from other destinations has intensified. Bali has attracted interest with its cultural appeal and relatively accessible property structures, while Gulf cities have promoted tax advantages and large-scale master-planned communities. Phuket’s advantage lies in its combination of established tourism infrastructure, natural assets and a maturing residential market. Analysts note that maintaining this edge will depend on continued investment in connectivity, governance and sustainable development.