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United Arab Emirates will assume the presidency of the Middle East and North Africa Financial Action Task Force in 2026, placing the country at the centre of regional efforts to strengthen safeguards against money laundering, terrorist financing and the proliferation of illicit funds. The appointment comes at a time when the bloc is seeking tighter coordination among member states as cross-border financial flows grow in scale and complexity.

MENAFATF brings together 21 jurisdictions across the Middle East, North Africa and neighbouring regions, representing a combined gross domestic product estimated at more than $3 trillion. The organisation functions as the regional body aligned with the global Financial Action Task Force standards, conducting peer reviews, issuing guidance and supporting members as they implement international rules designed to protect financial systems from abuse.

The decision for the UAE to lead the organisation follows its expanding role in financial regulation and enforcement across the region. Federal authorities have invested heavily in strengthening supervision of banks, exchange houses, designated non-financial businesses and professions, while also expanding cooperation with international counterparts. Officials involved in the process describe the presidency as recognition of the country’s progress in aligning domestic frameworks with global benchmarks and its capacity to convene consensus among diverse economies.

During its term, the UAE is expected to steer MENAFATF’s strategic agenda, including the scheduling of mutual evaluations, thematic studies and capacity-building programmes. These initiatives are central to helping member states address gaps identified in national risk assessments and respond to emerging typologies such as the misuse of virtual assets, trade-based money laundering and complex ownership structures.

Regulatory specialists say the presidency carries influence beyond administrative oversight. The chair country plays a pivotal role in shaping discussions on policy priorities, coordinating technical assistance and representing the region in dialogue with global standard-setters. This places added scrutiny on how effectively the bloc can balance the varied economic structures and legal systems of its members while maintaining consistent application of standards.

The UAE has signalled that cooperation and practical implementation will be key themes of its tenure. Policymakers have spoken about deepening information-sharing among financial intelligence units, enhancing public-private partnerships and supporting jurisdictions that face capacity constraints. Such measures are viewed as essential for raising overall compliance levels and reducing vulnerabilities that can be exploited across borders.

MENAFATF members span hydrocarbon-rich Gulf economies, large consumer markets in North Africa and smaller states with developing financial sectors. This diversity has historically posed challenges in achieving uniform progress. Analysts note that leadership will need to balance ambition with pragmatism, ensuring that reforms are realistic and tailored to local contexts while still meeting international expectations.

The presidency also coincides with broader shifts in the region’s financial landscape. Digital payments, fintech platforms and virtual assets have expanded rapidly, creating new opportunities for inclusion but also new risks. Addressing these developments requires updating supervisory tools, training regulators and fostering dialogue with technology providers. Observers expect the UAE to push for clearer regional guidance in these areas, building on its own experience in regulating emerging financial services.

Another area likely to feature prominently is the effectiveness of enforcement. While many jurisdictions have strengthened legal frameworks, translating laws into successful investigations and prosecutions remains uneven. MENAFATF’s peer review process increasingly emphasises outcomes, not just technical compliance. Under UAE leadership, the organisation is expected to encourage members to demonstrate tangible results in asset recovery, sanctions and international cooperation.

Diplomats familiar with the process say the appointment also reflects confidence in the UAE’s ability to engage constructively with both regional partners and global institutions. The country has positioned itself as a bridge between markets, hosting multinational financial institutions and acting as a hub for trade and investment. That role brings responsibilities, particularly in ensuring that financial openness is matched by robust controls.

This award is less about the trophy itself and more about what it represents — years of steady progress, consistent teamwork, and a shared commitment to improving the way we support businesses. It reflects the long-term effort of our team and partners who continue to learn, adapt, and refine how we use the Xero ecosystem to bring real value to clients.

“We are truly grateful for this recognition,” says Alex So, Founder of FastLane Group. “Each award reminds us that we’re on the right path, but it also keeps us grounded. Our progress comes from continuous effort, small improvements made every day, and the trust our clients place in us. Technology should empower people — not replace them — and we will keep working quietly and consistently to help businesses grow with clarity and confidence.”

From Cloud to Intelligence
FastLane’s journey with Xero began with cloud accounting — transforming how businesses manage compliance and financial data. Today, the partnership has evolved into something more ambitious: using AI to make accounting faster, smarter, and more human.

Xero’s latest AI companion, JAX (Just Ask Xero), automates tasks such as reconciliation, invoicing, and financial insights through simple conversational commands. For Alex, JAX represents the next leap in professional practice.

“Cloud technology gave us speed,” he explains. “AI gives us insight. When our accountants can ask a system a question and get an intelligent answer instantly, they can spend their time advising clients, not crunching numbers.”

Trust, Transparency, and the Human Touch
As AI becomes more embedded in accounting, FastLane emphasizes responsibility and human oversight. The firm aligns with Xero’s commitment to transparent and ethical AI — ensuring that every automated decision still begins and ends with human judgment.

“AI doesn’t take away our role; it amplifies it,” Alex says. “Technology can process data, but it can’t replace human intuition, empathy, or trust. That’s what clients truly value — and that’s what we protect.”

A Vision for the Future
FastLane’s influence now extends across Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Malaysia, where it helps entrepreneurs and growing companies build smarter, more scalable financial systems. Beyond compliance, the firm focuses on advisory, automation, and strategy — redefining how accountants support business growth in an AI-driven world.

“The future accountant isn’t just a number-keeper,” Alex concludes. “They’re a strategic partner, powered by technology and guided by purpose. AI gives us back the time to think, lead, and create real impact.”

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About FastLane Group

FastLane Group provides full-stack accounting services to startups, SMEs, and large corporations in Hong Kong, Malaysia, and Taiwan. As a Xero Platinum partner, the Company leverages Xero’s cloud-based accounting software to provide efficient services that comply with local accounting standards. The services cover customised professional accounting services, accountancy, bookkeeping, taxation, offshore formation, company secretary, etc. It was honoured as the Total Xero Award 2025 – Winner, Xero Asia Advisory Partner of the Year 2024 – Winner, and Xero Accounting Partner of the Year Hong Kong 2019 – Winner.

For more information, please visit the official website:
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People familiar with the transaction said the capital injection is structured to provide QXO with flexibility to pursue large-scale deals while maintaining access to public markets. The funding is expected to be deployed alongside existing cash and debt capacity to accelerate consolidation across a fragmented construction materials supply chain that spans roofing, insulation, waterproofing and related products.

QXO, chaired and controlled by Jacobs, was formed to assemble a scaled distribution platform capable of competing with established regional and national players. Jacobs, known for building multibillion-dollar logistics businesses through serial acquisitions, has positioned QXO as a long-term consolidator targeting steady cash flows and pricing power in non-cyclical end markets such as residential repair, maintenance and infrastructure upgrades.

Apollo’s participation signals institutional backing for that strategy at a time when dealmaking in building products is reshaping supply networks in North America. The alternative asset manager has extensive experience in industrial and services investments, and its involvement is expected to reassure lenders and potential sellers as QXO negotiates transactions that could reshape the sector’s competitive landscape.

People briefed on the matter said the investment gives QXO additional firepower to support a transformative purchase announced earlier, while also preserving capacity for follow-on acquisitions. The company has indicated that scale is critical to improving procurement economics, expanding private-label offerings and deploying technology to optimise inventory and logistics across a wide branch network.

Market participants note that building products distribution has drawn sustained private equity interest due to its resilience during economic slowdowns and its exposure to long-term housing and infrastructure demand. While new construction can fluctuate with interest rates, repair and renovation spending tends to be more stable, supporting predictable earnings for distributors with diversified customer bases.

Apollo’s investment arrives amid cautious optimism in credit markets. Financing conditions have improved compared with earlier tightening cycles, though borrowers remain selective and focused on leverage discipline. By bringing in a deep-pocketed sponsor, QXO reduces reliance on debt at a time when acquisition multiples remain elevated for high-quality assets.

Executives close to the company have said QXO aims to balance rapid growth with operational integration, avoiding the pitfalls that can accompany aggressive roll-up strategies. Jacobs has emphasised disciplined capital allocation, standardised systems and experienced management teams as cornerstones of value creation.

The transaction also underscores Apollo’s broader strategy of partnering with founder-led platforms that can compound value through scale rather than short-term financial engineering. The firm has increasingly favoured equity-heavy structures in sectors where operational improvements and market positioning drive returns over extended horizons.

Analysts covering the building products space say the investment could intensify competitive pressure on mid-sized distributors, many of which face succession challenges or capital constraints. For sellers, a well-capitalised buyer with public currency and sponsor backing can offer certainty of execution, a factor that often influences deal outcomes alongside price.

QXO’s shares have reflected heightened investor attention since the company outlined its acquisition plans, with trading volumes increasing as the market digests the implications of a more aggressive growth profile. The Apollo-backed financing is expected to reduce uncertainty around funding while sharpening focus on execution and integration milestones.

The Gulf Cooperation Council has moved closer to a fully integrated regional market with the launch of the first phase of an electronic customs data linkage system, enabling member states to securely exchange customs declaration information in real time. Approved by the Gulf Cooperation Council Customs Union Authority, the initiative marks a structural shift in how goods move across the bloc, replacing fragmented national processes with a shared digital framework.

Under the new system, customs authorities across the six-member bloc can access standardised declaration data as shipments cross borders, reducing repetitive checks and administrative bottlenecks that have long affected intra-GCC trade. Officials involved in the rollout describe the project as foundational to the Customs Union’s original objectives, which include the free movement of goods produced within the bloc and the consistent application of common external tariffs.

Trade flows within the Gulf have expanded steadily alongside diversification efforts that aim to reduce reliance on hydrocarbons. Manufacturing, re-export activity, food security logistics and e-commerce have all increased the volume and complexity of cross-border shipments. The electronic linkage is designed to keep pace with these changes by allowing authorities to verify origin, valuation and compliance details instantly, rather than relying on physical documentation and sequential clearance at each border.

Technically, the system connects national customs platforms through a secure digital interface governed by agreed data standards. Each declaration submitted in one member state becomes visible to others, allowing advance risk assessment and coordinated inspection decisions. This approach is expected to shorten clearance times, lower costs for traders and improve the predictability of supply chains, particularly for time-sensitive goods such as perishables and pharmaceuticals.

Customs officials familiar with the project say the first phase focuses on core declaration data and risk indicators, with future stages expected to expand into areas such as duty settlement, exemptions and post-clearance audits. The phased approach reflects the complexity of aligning legacy systems and legal frameworks across six jurisdictions while maintaining data security and national sovereignty.

For governments, the linkage strengthens oversight and revenue protection by reducing opportunities for misdeclaration or tariff arbitrage between borders. Shared data allows authorities to track consignments throughout their journey in the region, improving enforcement of customs rules and trade remedies. The system also supports broader efforts to combat illicit trade by enhancing visibility over cargo movements and identifying anomalies earlier in the process.

Businesses operating across the Gulf stand to benefit from lower compliance burdens and faster market access. Logistics providers have long argued that differences in documentation requirements and clearance practices add hidden costs to regional trade. A unified digital channel reduces the need for duplicate submissions and manual reconciliations, making it easier for firms to scale operations across multiple markets within the bloc.

The initiative aligns with national digital transformation agendas that place trade facilitation at the centre of economic policy. Several member states have invested heavily in smart ports, automated clearance systems and single-window platforms over the past decade. The customs data linkage builds on this foundation by connecting these national efforts into a regional network, rather than treating borders as isolated endpoints.

From a strategic perspective, the project supports the Gulf’s ambition to position itself as a global logistics and re-export hub linking Asia, Europe and Africa. As international supply chains increasingly depend on data-driven decision-making, regions with interoperable customs systems are better placed to attract investment and high-value trade flows. The ability to offer predictable, transparent and rapid clearance across multiple countries is viewed by policymakers as a competitive advantage.

Economic analysts note that the linkage also enhances resilience by allowing authorities to respond more effectively to disruptions. Shared data enables coordinated responses to surges in demand, rerouting of shipments or regulatory changes, reducing the risk of congestion at individual borders. This coordination has become more important as global trade patterns adjust to geopolitical shifts and evolving production networks.

MiniMax is preparing to price its Hong Kong initial public offering at the top of the marketed range, signalling strong demand for artificial intelligence developers as investors seek exposure to homegrown technology firms with global ambitions, according to people familiar with the transaction.

The Shanghai-based company, best known for its large language models and consumer-facing AI applications, has accelerated its listing timetable amid a surge in interest for Chinese technology firms that are perceived to be less exposed to US trade and regulatory pressures. Bankers involved in the deal say early indications from institutional investors point to robust demand, particularly from Asia-based funds focused on long-term technology themes.

MiniMax, founded in 2021 by former SenseTime and Megvii researchers, has positioned itself as one of the country’s leading independent AI model developers. Its core products include general-purpose foundation models, AI companions and enterprise solutions used across gaming, education and content creation. The firm competes with larger players backed by internet conglomerates while marketing itself as more agile and research-driven.

People familiar with the IPO said the company is targeting a valuation that reflects the premium currently attached to AI-related listings in Hong Kong. While final pricing has not yet been approved, the expectation is that the offer will be set at the upper end of the range to capitalise on strong order books built during early marketing. The shares are expected to begin trading later this year, subject to market conditions and regulatory clearances.

The decision to push for top-range pricing comes as Hong Kong’s equity market shows signs of renewed momentum after a prolonged slowdown. Technology and healthcare deals have drawn increasing attention, supported by policy measures aimed at reviving capital markets and encouraging listings by innovative firms. Fund managers say AI remains one of the few sectors where investors are willing to pay up for growth, despite broader concerns over economic headwinds.

MiniMax’s IPO is also being closely watched as a test case for how investors value Chinese AI companies that operate largely outside the orbit of the country’s major internet platforms. Unlike peers that rely heavily on parent companies for distribution and funding, MiniMax has raised capital from a mix of venture investors and strategic backers, allowing it to retain greater operational independence. That positioning has resonated with some institutional investors seeking exposure to AI innovation without heavy platform risk.

The company has continued to expand its research capabilities, investing heavily in computing infrastructure and talent. Industry analysts note that MiniMax has been among the more visible Chinese developers releasing multilingual models and consumer applications that aim to compete with global offerings. Its emphasis on overseas markets, including Southeast Asia and parts of the Middle East, has helped broaden its revenue base and narrative ahead of the listing.

Still, the firm faces stiff competition. Domestic rivals supported by large technology groups benefit from vast user ecosystems and deep pockets, while international players continue to dominate cutting-edge model development. Pricing the IPO aggressively could raise expectations around execution and financial performance at a time when monetisation of AI remains uneven across the industry.

Market participants say Hong Kong has become a more attractive venue for such listings as regulatory scrutiny on technology firms has stabilised compared with earlier years. The city’s exchange has also updated listing rules to better accommodate companies with heavy research spending and limited near-term profitability, a profile that fits many AI developers.

Bankers involved in the transaction say MiniMax has highlighted its progress in commercialising products, including enterprise contracts and consumer subscriptions, to address investor concerns around sustainability. While the company is not yet profitable, it has signalled a clearer path to revenue growth than at earlier funding rounds, helped by rising demand for customised AI solutions among businesses.

GLAS has carved out a niche as a specialist provider of services that support the lifecycle of debt instruments, from syndicated loans and direct lending to private credit and leveraged finance transactions. Founded in 2011 by Mia Drennan and Brian Carne, the firm oversees administration for a substantial portfolio of assets under management running into the hundreds of billions of dollars and employs over 450 staff across 16 offices worldwide. Drennan is expected to remain at the helm as chief executive, reflecting continuity in leadership amid the change in ownership.

The strategic rationale behind the investment reflects broader shifts in global credit markets. Demand for outsourced loan administration and trustee services has grown as lenders and borrowers navigate increasingly complex financing arrangements and regulatory requirements. Private credit, in particular, has expanded sharply, with non-bank lenders and institutional investors seeking specialist support for documentation, compliance and reporting functions that underpin large, bespoke transactions. GLAS’s suite of services has made it a go-to partner in this space, particularly for institutional clients negotiating intricate debt structures.

Financial terms of the deal disclosed by Oakley indicate its indirect contribution via Fund VI will be up to about £55 million, but wider valuations implied by market coverage suggest a total enterprise value near £1 billion. That figure aligns with expectations from advisers and reflects both GLAS’s established market position and the strategic value investors place on firms that facilitate the expanding private credit ecosystem. Oakley’s purchase follows a period of growth for GLAS under Levine Leichtman’s ownership, during which assets under administration reportedly rose from roughly $120 billion in 2021 to more than $750 billion today, driven by geographic expansion, technology investment and targeted acquisitions.

Oakley Capital’s profile has broadened in recent years as the firm has backed a variety of businesses across sectors including consumer brands, technology and business services. Its backing of GLAS reflects a deliberate push into specialised financial services where structural trends favour outsourced, technology-enhanced solutions. The involvement of La Caisse, a major institutional investor, underscores the appeal of GLAS’s business model to long-term capital allocators seeking exposure to the infrastructure of global credit markets.

Industry analysts have noted the appetite for loan agency services has been underpinned by the proliferation of private credit funds and a resurgence of syndicated lending activity following periods of market volatility. As banks and alternative lenders diversify their portfolios and jurisdictions tighten reporting standards, demand for independent administrators with global reach has grown. GLAS’s deep bench of expertise in handling complex transactions and its geographic footprint are seen as competitive advantages that could support accelerated growth under Oakley’s stewardship.

Executives from both sides have highlighted the strategic fit. Mia Drennan said the partnership with Oakley and La Caisse positions GLAS to expand its offerings and deepen client relationships, building on a track record of innovation in service delivery. Josh Kaufman, partner and head of Europe at Levine Leichtman, expressed pride in the firm’s role in GLAS’s development and confidence in its future trajectory under new ownership. Advisers on the transaction included Deutsche Bank and Robert W. Baird, working with GLAS and Levine Leichtman, reflecting the complexity and market interest in the deal.

“We take pride in recalling that China hosted the INTERPOL General Assembly in Beijing in 1995 and 2017, and this time, Hong Kong, China will be the host city for the 94^th General Assembly in 2026,” said Vice Minister of Public Security of the People’s Republic of China, Mr Xu Datong.

The General Assembly is the governing body of the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), at which police chiefs and ministers of its 196 member states gather to discuss global security issues and foster collaboration.

The HKSAR’s Commissioner of Police Mr Chow Yat-ming, said the selection of Hong Kong as the host city highlights China’s trust in both the HKSAR and the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF), and underscores Hong Kong’s strategic importance as an international “super connector” in global policing.

“Having served at INTERPOL and visited Rome, Italy; New Delhi, India; Vienna, Austria; and Glasgow, United Kingdom for various General Assemblies, I never imagined Hong Kong would have the opportunity to host this prestigious event,” Mr Chow said. “When our country proposed Hong Kong as the host, I felt deeply honoured.”

The HKSAR Government and HKPF aim to use this occasion to showcase positive stories about China, Hong Kong, and the HKPF, illustrating the success of the “One Country, Two Systems” formula for the HKSAR, Mr Chow added.

Hong Kong has a long association with INTERPOL. The HKPF is a sub-bureau under China, and plays an active and prominent role within INTERPOL, contributing expertise on major crime trends, cybercrime, and financial crime.

The HKPF regularly sends officers to INTERPOL headquarters in the French city of Lyon and the Global Complex for Innovation in Singapore for secondments. Currently, three officers are serving in key roles, one in financial crime coordination in Lyon, and two in technology crime management roles in Singapore.

The HKPF is restructuring its strategy to expand ties with overseas law enforcement agencies, especially in ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) and those under the Belt and Road Initiative, to better address emerging transnational crime.

Emphasis is placed on intercepting cross-border fraudulent funds, with the global FRONTIER+ platform (established in October 2024) now connecting 13 jurisdictions, facilitating real-time intelligence sharing and fund interception.

In this connection, on November 12, 2025, the HKPF held its inaugural Ethics Governance Roundtable in Hong Kong, with participation from INTERPOL, the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) and representatives from various countries.

INTERPOL’s delegation was led by the Director of the Office of Internal Oversight, Mr Eugênio Ricas. The Roundtable featured in-depth discussions on ethics governance including personal financial risk management strategies, achieving fruitful outcomes.

The HKPF will continue to leverage Hong Kong’s role as a “super connector” through various international policing platforms, including INTERPOL, to further strengthen collaboration with law enforcement agencies across different countries and regions, working together to safeguard global and regional security.

Mr Chow said that hosting the General Assembly is a top priority for the HKSAR Government and that preparations were already well underway.

“The HKPF is maintaining close communication with INTERPOL and China’s National Central Bureau to ensure smooth hosting of the 2026 General Assembly,” Mr Chow said, adding that he hopes that delegates attending the event will appreciate Hong Kong’s vitality, friendly spirit, and rich culinary culture during their stay.

“We are determined to ensure every delegation has an unforgettable experience from the moment they arrive at Hong Kong International Airport,” he said.

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Aviation in the United Arab Emirates has deepened its role as a strategic pillar of the national economy, with 2025 marking a year of consolidation that underscored the sector’s influence on trade, tourism, logistics and supply chains. Policymakers and industry leaders say the ecosystem’s direct and indirect contribution has reached as much as 18 per cent of gross domestic product, reflecting the scale of activity generated by airlines, airports, maintenance hubs, free zones and aviation-linked services.

Passenger and cargo volumes across the federation continued to trend higher, supported by steady growth in international travel demand and the country’s positioning as a crossroads between Asia, Europe and Africa. Major hubs operated by Dubai Airports and Abu Dhabi Airports handled sustained traffic flows as carriers expanded networks and frequencies. Capacity discipline and targeted route additions allowed operators to absorb higher volumes while maintaining service standards, reinforcing the UAE’s reputation for operational reliability.

Flag carriers remained central to the sector’s momentum. Emirates Airline pressed ahead with fleet renewal and network optimisation, focusing on long-haul markets that underpin connectivity for tourism and business travel. Etihad Airways pursued a parallel strategy centred on profitability and partnerships, aligning growth with demand and strengthening Abu Dhabi’s role as a transfer hub. Together, the airlines’ scale supported ancillary industries ranging from catering and ground handling to training and aviation finance.

Cargo performance remained a defining feature of the year. Dedicated freighter operations and belly-hold capacity benefited from the UAE’s role in high-value, time-sensitive shipments, including pharmaceuticals, perishables and e-commerce. Logistics providers highlighted improved customs processes and digital clearance systems as key enablers, allowing faster turnaround times and reinforcing confidence among multinational shippers. The integration of air cargo with ports and free zones helped sustain supply chains amid ongoing adjustments in global trade patterns.

Governance and regulation were cited by executives as competitive advantages. The General Civil Aviation Authority continued to align oversight with international standards while supporting innovation through performance-based regulation. Industry participants pointed to predictable policy frameworks and coordinated planning between federal and emirate-level authorities as factors that reduced friction for investors and operators.

Sustainability initiatives gathered pace across airlines and airports, reflecting both regulatory expectations and commercial imperatives. Carriers advanced fuel-efficiency programmes through newer aircraft types and operational measures, while airports invested in energy management, waste reduction and water stewardship. Trials involving sustainable aviation fuel expanded through partnerships with energy suppliers and research institutions, positioning the UAE as an early mover in the region’s decarbonisation efforts. While volumes of alternative fuels remain limited, industry leaders argued that early adoption builds expertise and supply-chain readiness.

Technology adoption also shaped the sector’s evolution. Biometric processing, predictive maintenance and data-driven air traffic management systems were rolled out to improve efficiency and resilience. Airports leveraged automation to manage peak flows without proportional increases in staffing, while airlines used analytics to refine scheduling and revenue management. These investments were framed as necessary to accommodate future growth while preserving service quality.

The aviation workforce expanded alongside operations, with training academies and partnerships focusing on pilots, engineers and air traffic specialists. Officials emphasised localisation and skills development as priorities, citing aviation’s role in high-value employment and knowledge transfer. At the same time, competition for specialised talent remained intense, prompting employers to enhance retention and career progression pathways.

Tourism authorities linked aviation capacity directly to visitor inflows, noting that air connectivity underpins hotel occupancy, events and retail activity. Route launches and increased frequencies supported diversification into new source markets, aligning with broader economic strategies aimed at reducing reliance on hydrocarbons. Business travel and exhibitions contributed to premium traffic, reinforcing the UAE’s positioning as a regional commercial hub.

The Scholarship Awards aims to recognize and support students pursuing life sciences or biomedical sciences programs at local UGC-funded institutions. Each awardee would receive a HK$50,000 scholarship, mentorship from industry professionals through the HKLSS Mentorship Scheme, and priority enrollment in the HKLSS Life Sciences Summer Internship Program, which offers students an integrated hands-on learning experience across Hong Kong, the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) Region and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).

Brought together by the Scholarship Awards, three awardees of cohort 2025/26 – SANTOSO Rachelle Jacinda (Y3 BSc in Biological Sciences, CityUHK), RAHMAN Syed Rayan (Y3 BSc in Applied Biology with Biotechnology, PolyU), and TAI Wing Yin Vincy (Y3 Bachelor of Biomedical Sciences, HKU), embarked on a shared journey – to be nurtured, grow, and ultimately bloom as future leaders in life sciences, contributing their skills and passion to advance Hong Kong’s life sciences ecosystem and build a better tomorrow through inter-disciplinary collaborations.

Homegrown Biological Sciences Dream Fuels Up in Hong Kong
Arriving from Indonesia three years ago, SANTOSO Rachelle Jacinda (Rachelle) joined Hong Kong’s life sciences community as an undergraduate with determination and hope. Her passion was first ignited by family medical challenges and her curiosity for biology drove her to pursue deeper studies in biological sciences.

What opened her door to her true calling was the hands-on laboratory work. Rachelle came to appreciate not only the essential role of doctors but also the vital impact of scientists, both working together to advance healthcare. This realization fueled her dream for postgraduate studies, a goal that she once deemed rather idealistic.

She described the Scholarship Awards as a “confidence boost”. She recalled receiving an affirmation from one of the Scholarship Awards interviewers about her future plans, “I think you’re in a quite good place” reassured her that she was on the right path.

With her confidence boosted, Rachelle plans to leverage the scholarship to establish herself in Hong Kong – a supportive nurturing ground for life sciences students, and growing global healthcare investment. Embracing the local culture, she is now learning Cantonese and improving her Mandarin to gear herself up and pursue future opportunities in both Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland.

From Hometown to International Life Sciences Research Lab
“I wanted to become a surgeon [in the past] because I wanted to save lives every day. But if I become a researcher in the life sciences field, one single breakthrough can change millions of lives,” said, RAHMAN Syed Rayan (Rayan), who discovered his real passion in the research lab.

Rayan’s fascination with science began at the age of ten in Bangladesh, where he observed animals in his hometown. Like Rachelle, his enthusiasm for life sciences brought him to Hong Kong, where he was encouraged to immerse himself in research at the university laboratory, guided by professors with profound global research expertise. During semester breaks, Rayan seized every opportunity to broaden his knowledge. Now based in Hong Kong, on his freshman and sophomore years, he pursued an internship in Canada and a summer exchange in the UK, where research primarily followed a fundamental approach. He was thankful for the diverse doors Hong Kong had opened, as exposure to different research methods taught him to see things more holistically, which benefited his work in Hong Kong, known for its focus on translational research.

As Rayan continued to build his career in the life sciences field, receiving the Scholarship Awards meant a great deal to Rayan as he felt “trusted by the panel” and empowered him to be aware of his actions. “Having somebody else to tell you that you are on the right path and believe in you, is very important,” Rayan emphasized.

Rayan also feels especially grateful and refreshed to have found the amazing community he discovered through the Scholarship Awards, as he gets a chance to connect with like-minded peers, who all work towards the same goals and similar challenges. The Scholarship Awards has paved his way to additional opportunities, including priority access to the Society’s industry experience focused Summer Internship Program.

Scientists on TV Ignite Big Ambitions
TAI Wing Yin Vincy (Vincy), raised in Hong Kong, developed her passion for life sciences as a child watching scientists in action on TV. Inspired by her curiosity and determination to make a difference, she chose to study biomedical sciences at The University of Hong Kong, following her passion despite conventional expectations.

During her time at university, she gained practical experience through internships in both laboratory and Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)-compliant facility, which reinforced her ambition. She also minored in Sustaining Cities, Cultures and the Earth to explore inter-disciplinary connections, “As a student, we should not only focus on life sciences, but also learn more about the global perspective, especially when sciences can influence the world,” she said.

These experiences deepened her dedication to the field and the Scholarship Awards became more than an award – it offered a source of belonging that affirmed her place in the life sciences community. “I feel like I am part of the Society, someone who can eventually grow and evolve together with the community and industry,” she said.

The Scholarship Awards has helped bridge her to the broader life sciences ecosystem, as Vincy was connected with previous and other same-cohort awardees at the Presentation Ceremony, and she looks forward to meeting more entrepreneurs, researchers, and C-suite executives from the life sciences sector and gaining guidance from them through HKLSS’ Mentorship Scheme and Summer Internship Program.

Powering Ambition: HKLSS Opens Paths Beyond the Classroom with its Pillar Programs
From different beginnings, Rachelle, Rayan, and Vincy find common ground through HKLSS. For them, the Scholarship Awards is more than financial support – it brings them to the pillar programs, a gateway to industry-centered mentorship, industry experience, and a vibrant community driving the future of life sciences in Hong Kong, the YRD, the GBA and beyond.

“I would very much love to go there [Shanghai and Shenzhen] because I will have the opportunity to explore new places and also to meet people with different cultures,” Rachelle said, while Rayan and Vincy also saw the internships as valuable opportunities to gain experience in the Chinese Mainland. “I have heard so many good things from my friends, especially the pharmaceutical companies over there,” Rayan added.

As a life sciences ecosystem enabler, HKLSS continues to expand its pillar programs, activities, and network to meet the evolving needs of members at different career stages. To address the growing demand for life sciences talent and attract both local and non-local professionals to the city, HKLSS also launched Biotech Talent, a dedicated job platform that connects talent with opportunities in the life sciences and biotechnology industry, and offers employers direct access to a diverse talent pool. Through a growing suite of initiatives, the Society partners with its network to support and cultivate a vibrant life sciences ecosystem with dedication.
Hashtag: #HongKongLifeSciencesSociety #HKLSS #香港生命科技青年會 #LifeSciences

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About Hong Kong Life Sciences Society

Hong Kong Life Sciences Society (HKLSS) is an organization established by Nan Fung Group in 2018 aiming to build a dynamic life sciences ecosystem in Hong Kong. Through knowledge exchange, collaboration and public engagement, HKLSS aims to attract, cultivate and retain talent in Hong Kong’s life sciences and biotechnology sectors.

Members of Hong Kong Life Sciences Society
Founder and Board Chair: Mr Vincent Cheung
Board Vice-chair: Mr Shannon Cheung, Prof Nancy Ip, Mr Antony Leung
Executive Director: Prof Ken Wong

Members of the Advisory Board
Prof Tom Cheung, Dr Vanessa Cheung, Ms Irene Chu, Mr Shan Fu, Mr Meng Gao, Ms Gladdy He, Prof David Ho, Dr Lu Huang, Mr Emmanuel Hui, Prof Daniel Lee, Ms Nisa Leung, Prof Suet Yi Leung, Prof Kai Liu, Prof Stephanie Ma, Dr Jay Mei, Prof Malik Peiris, Prof Leo Poon, Dr Jin Seok Seo, Prof Anderson Shum, Dr Qiusong Tang, Mr William Tang, Prof Lap-Chee Tsui, Prof Yung Hou Wong, Mr Frank Yu, Prof Kwok-Yung Yuen

For more information about the Hong Kong Life Sciences Society, please visit:
Website: www.hklss.org
Facebook: www.facebook.com/HKLifeSciencesSociety
Instagram: www.instagram.com/hklifesciencessociety
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/hklss/
Media inquiries: [email protected]