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Fresh scrutiny of one of Earth’s largest known eruptions is weakening the idea that humanity was almost erased by a volcanic winter 74,000 years ago, with archaeological evidence from Africa and Asia pointing instead to scattered groups adapting through environmental shock. Lake Toba in Sumatra marks the site of a colossal supereruption that ejected vast quantities of ash and sulphur-rich material into the atmosphere during the Late […]
HKUST Led Project Marks Hong Kong’s First Scientific Payload on the National Space Station
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 May 2026 – The world’s first lightweight, high‑resolution, high‑precision synergistic observatory for carbon dioxide (CO₂) and methane (CH₄) emission point sources – named “MUSICO”, Multi‑Spectral Imaging Carbon Observatory, led by The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) – was successfully launched aboard the Tianzhou‑10 cargo spacecraft on May 11 and has arrived at China’s Tiangong Space Station. This is not only Hong Kong’s first scientific payload deployed on the national space station, but also a historic breakthrough for the city in the development of high‑end aerospace instruments. The project fully demonstrates Hong Kong’s strong capability to build national‑level cutting-edge scientific payloads, to participate in long‑term space station missions, and to play a key role in addressing global climate change while serving the nation’s strategic “carbon peak and carbon neutrality” goals.
The project is led by an interdisciplinary research team from HKUST, comprising experts from the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, the Division of Emerging Interdisciplinary Areas, the Division of Environment and Sustainability, the Department of Computer Science and Engineering, and the Division of Public Policy. In late 2024, the project received formal approval from the Technology and Engineering Center for Space Utilization of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CSU.CAS), the general research center for the Space Utilization System. It is jointly developed with the CAS Changchun Institute of Optics, Fine Mechanics and Physics, and funded by the Special Call (Aerospace Technology) of the Innovation and Technology Support Program under the Innovation and Technology Commission of the HKSAR Government.
MUSICO is a lightweight, high‑resolution, high‑precision greenhouse gas point‑source detection payload capable of accurately measuring CO₂ and CH₄ — two major greenhouse gases — from space. Smaller than a domestic washing machine, the instrument maintains extra-high spectral resolution and one hundred‑meter spatial resolution. By analyzing intensity changes of sunlight over specific spectral bands as it passes through the atmosphere and reflects off the Earth’s surface, MUSICO identifies gas‑specific absorption features to determine gas concentrations and pinpoint individual emission sources, enabling effective monitoring of key facilities such as power plants and landfills.
Prof. SUN Dong, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, remarked, “This HKUST led project represents Hong Kong’s first scientific payload aboard the Tiangong Space Station, a major milestone for Hong Kong in the nation’s space missions. The national 15th Five Year Plan identifies accelerating green and low carbon transition, building a space powerhouse, and achieving carbon peak as key priorities. The successful deployment of a payload autonomously developed by a Hong Kong research team on Tiangong powerfully demonstrates that Hong Kong scientists possess top tier research and technology translation capabilities in frontier fields such as aerospace technology and green low carbon science, providing the nation with high quality, verifiable scientific data to accelerate the realization of the dual carbon goals.”
Prof. Nancy IP, President of HKUST, said, “We are deeply honored that our HKUST research team can participate in scientific missions on the national space station, and we sincerely thank the nation and the HKSAR Government for their long‑standing trust and support. This project not only highlights HKUST’s accumulated strengths in aerospace engineering, satellite remote sensing, and environmental engineering, but also proves that Hong Kong’s research capabilities can make substantial contributions on the nation’s highest‑level aerospace platforms. As the world’s first lightweight high‑precision greenhouse gas point‑source detection payload, MUSICO will continue to operate on the national space station, providing autonomous, controllable, high‑reliability CO₂ and CH₄ emission monitoring data that directly support the nation’s dual‑carbon goals and provide scientific backing for the ‘Beautiful China’ initiative and global climate governance.”
President Ip added, “In recent years, HKUST has been deepening its efforts in deep‑space exploration and low‑orbit satellite technology — following the successful launch of Hong Kong’s first higher‑education satellite in 2023, we are now actively participating in the nation’s Chang’e‑8 lunar exploration mission. Looking ahead, HKUST will continue to leverage its strengths in artificial intelligence, robotics, and materials science to accelerate the translation of space‑related technologies and nurture high‑end talent, contributing to the nation’s accelerated drive to build a space powerhouse and achieve green, low‑carbon, high‑quality development.”
Prof. SU Hui, Project Lead, Chair Professor of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Global STEM Professor at HKUST, said, “The development of MUSICO involved overcoming multiple critical technical challenges — namely, how to achieve high spectral resolution, fine spatial resolution, and synergistic multi‑gas observation under strict size and weight constraints. The team conducted extensive testing and optimization in optical design, precision manufacturing, and system integration to ensure the instrument can deliver reliable, accurate greenhouse gas data over long periods under high‑speed operation and extreme space environments. Successfully integrating these key technologies into a lightweight payload represents a landmark engineering and scientific achievement, demonstrating that the technology has reached internationally advanced standards.”
Prof. ZHANG Limin, Co‑Project Lead, National Engineer Awardee and Head of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at HKUST, emphasized, “MUSICO’s observational coverage spans most land and ocean areas across low‑to‑mid‑latitude regions, providing consistent and comparable greenhouse gas monitoring data for different regions. The project’s results will be shared with government agencies and research institutions, supporting scientific research and practical applications in the Guangdong‑Hong Kong‑Macao Greater Bay Area and in other parts of China. They will also provide a scientific basis for cross‑regional climate research and emission reduction efforts along the Belt and Road, contributing to the global response to climate change. This is both a vivid example of HKUST’s research strength serving national strategy and a concrete practice of Hong Kong’s research capabilities contributing to global climate governance.”
The research project is co‑led by Prof. SU Hui, Chair Professor of the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering and Global STEM Professor at HKUST, and Prof. ZHANG Limin, Chair Professor and Head of the same department. Prof. ZHAI Chengxing, Associate Professor of the Division of Emerging Interdisciplinary Areas serves as the mission system engineer. Other team members include: Senior Scientific Officer Dr. RONG Pingping, Prof. ZHANG Jize, and Prof. WANG Zhe from HKUST’s Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering; Prof. NING Zhi, Prof. SHI Xiaoming, and Prof. GU Dasa from the Division of Environment and Sustainability; Prof. MA Xiaojuan from the Department of Computer Science and Engineering; Prof. ZHU Pengyu from the Division of Public Policy; Prof. GAO Meng from Hong Kong Baptist University; and Prof. LI Jia from Lingnan University.
The project has also garnered strong industry support, including funding from HKUST-incubated startup Stellerus Technology Limited. Meanwhile, CLP Power Hong Kong Limited will collaborate with the project team to explore leveraging the data collected by MUSICO to complement its relevant assessments.
Hashtag: #HKUST
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
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Set opposite Ben Thanh Market, One Central Saigon is a landmark mixed-use destination where luxury living, hospitality, retail and business converge at the centre of Ho Chi Minh City. The project also marks The Ritz-Carlton hotel brand’s debut in Vietnam, alongside The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Saigon, Grade A+ offices, curated retail, services and fine dining.
HO CHI MINH CITY, VIETNAM – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 May 2026 – Masterise Homes, a member of Masterise Group, has officially launched One Central Saigon, Vietnam’s first mixed-use landmark destination, marking the arrival of a new address where international standards of living, hospitality, retail, business and services come together in Ho Chi Minh City.
One Central Saigon brings together The Ritz-Carlton, Saigon, The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Saigon, Grade A+ offices, curated retail, dining and lifestyle experiences in central Ho Chi Minh City.
The launch event was attended by representatives of Ho Chi Minh City government authorities, senior leaders from Masterise Group, Masterise Homes and Marriott International, as well as leading experts in real estate, economics and tourism.
Over the past decade, the centre of gravity of the global economy has shifted decisively towards Asia, with Vietnam emerging as one of the region’s most compelling growth stories. Ho Chi Minh City, the country’s economic engine, is entering a new phase of development as a dynamic, deeply connected metropolis.
Around the world, certain developments have helped shape how cities are recognised internationally, from Hong Kong’s IFC and Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands to Kuala Lumpur’s Petronas Twin Towers and Dubai’s Burj Khalifa. These projects did more than create striking skylines. They helped shape how the world sees their cities and countries. One Central Saigon is positioned within this tradition of city-shaping developments, with a vision that combines international standards, Vietnamese identity and long-term urban value.
“We believe Vietnam has reached the moment where it is ready for a development of the calibre of One Central Saigon,” said Ms Nguyen Thi Minh Phuong, Managing Director, Southern Region, Masterise Group. “The project has been present in Ho Chi Minh City for some time and has passed through several phases of development. Today, it is being introduced with a clearer vision. With a sense of responsibility to contribute to the nation’s development journey in a new era, Masterise Group aspires to continue building an iconic landmark where the world’s highest experiential standards converge with the identity, energy and ambition of the city. This is also how we contribute to projecting the image of a modern, confident and culturally rich Vietnam onto the international stage.”
A rare address in the city’s historic core For more than a century, Ben Thanh Market has been one of Ho Chi Minh City’s great urban constants: a place of trade, arrival and encounter, and one of the few landmarks instantly recognised across Vietnam and beyond.
Its clock tower, market halls and surrounding streets are woven into the city’s daily rhythm and public memory, giving the area a significance that extends far beyond location. Set directly opposite the market, with four rare frontages along Pham Ngu Lao, Calmette, Le Thi Hong Gam and Pho Duc Chinh streets in the former District 1, One Central Saigon holds one of the city’s most strategic locations and shares a unique connection with Ho Chi Minh City’s historic urban core.
One Central Saigon will rise as two towers above a retail and commercial podium on an 8,537 sqm site, with 19,990 sqm of commercial space across seven above-ground levels and six basement floors. The retail centre is envisioned as a destination for luxury retail, curated services and fine dining, with brands and experiences selected for both international appeal and the evolving needs of Vietnamese customers. Its basement levels will connect directly to Ben Thanh Metro Station via an underground link, integrating the project with the city’s public transit network.
Together with Grade A+ offices, The Ritz-Carlton, Saigon and The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Saigon, the development forms a seamless mixed-use ecosystem for luxury living, hospitality, retail, business, services and lifestyle experiences at the centre of Ho Chi Minh City.
Song Long Ngậm Ngọc: Vietnamese symbolism, global expertise The architecture of One Central Saigon is inspired by Song Long Ngậm Ngọc, or Twin Dragons Playing with a Pearl, a Vietnamese cultural motif associated with strength, prosperity and wisdom. The two towers rise and converge around a central point, creating a contemporary architectural expression of Vietnamese identity within the Ben Thanh district.
Among the tallest twin towers in Vietnam and the region, One Central Saigon is a structurally complex undertaking that requires significant investment, precision, and attention at every stage of execution. The project brings together an international design and construction team, including Arquitectonica as design architect, HBA for interior design, B+H, a member of Surbana Jurong Group, as executive architect, and Turner for project management.
International operational standards add another defining layer of value to One Central Saigon. With more than a century of heritage in luxury hospitality, The Ritz-Carlton brings refinement, attention to detail, privacy and highly personalised service to the project’s ultra-luxury positioning.
The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Saigon opens a new chapter in ultra-luxury living, while The Ritz-Carlton, Saigon marks the hotel brand’s debut in Vietnam, reflecting Ho Chi Minh City’s growing appeal to international travellers, investors, entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals.
The Grade A+ office component is designed for global corporations and forward-thinking business leaders seeking a workplace within a 5-star international ecosystem. Vietnam’s luxury momentum accelerates The launch comes as Vietnam continues to attract global capital, international brands and a rising generation of high-net-worth consumers. Official data showed real GDP growth of 8.02% in 2025, up from 7.09%, while foreign direct investment reached a record US$27.62 billion.
Tourism is adding further momentum. Vietnam welcomed nearly 21.2 million international visitors in 2025, its strongest year for inbound tourism, while Ho Chi Minh City received nearly 8.6 million international visitors, up 40.3% year on year.
Branded residences are following the same trajectory. Savills reports that branded residences in Asia Pacific increased by 55% over the past five years, while C9 Hotelworks’ Asia Branded Residences Market Review 2025 points to Vietnam as one of the region’s most important future supply markets.
For Masterise Group, One Central Saigon extends an international branded real estate portfolio that includes Grand Marina, Saigon, featuring Marriott and JW Marriott-branded residences, and The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Hanoi at The Grand. It also gives Vietnam’s ultra-luxury real estate growth story tangible form beside one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most prized historical sites.
As the city enters a new phase of development, expanding in both scale and quality, thoughtfully planned and professionally operated integrated developments such as One Central Saigon are expected to enrich the city’s tourism, services and urban experience ecosystem. The project is positioned to create lasting value for the community and elevate the standing of Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnam on the international stage. Hashtag: #MasteriseGroup
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Masterise Group
Masterise Group is an international real estate development group, pioneering a comprehensive ecosystem spanning residential and hospitality developments, as well as urban infrastructure and logistics. Founded in 2007 as Thao Dien Investment and officially rebranded as Masterise Group in 2019, Masterise Group sees real estate as more than buildings; it is the foundation for a nation’s future, providing infrastructure for connection, momentum for progress, elevated living and generational legacy. With a long-term vision, Masterise Group continuously pushes boundaries, creates sustainable value, elevates quality of life and contributes to strengthening Vietnam’s new era of growth and global ambition.
Masterise Homes is a member of Masterise Group and manages and develops all of the group’s residential real estate brands. As Vietnam’s pioneer in branded real estate development, Masterise Homes’ mission goes beyond delivering architectural landmarks with refined design and integrated amenities. Masterise Homes strives to craft comprehensive living spaces where residents experience a standard of living that goes beyond the basic function of a home.
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BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 13 May 2026 – ONYX Hospitality Group, a leading hospitality management company in Asia-Pacific, has unveiled its growth strategy as it celebrates its 60th anniversary. With a portfolio spanning hotels, resorts, serviced apartments, luxury residences, as well as dining and spa offerings, the Group is targeting total revenue of THB 10.33 billion in 2026, representing a 14% year-on-year increase. It also plans to expand its portfolio to more than 75 properties by 2030, underscoring its sustained growth momentum and strengthening its position across the Asia Pacific region. This expansion will be supported by a planned investment of THB 5.5 billion over the next three years, primarily focused on enhancing and upgrading existing properties.
Over the past six decades, ONYX Hospitality Group has grown from managing a single hotel in Thailand into a regional hospitality company with a multi-brand portfolio including Amari, OZO, Shama and Oriental Residence. Each brand has a clearly defined identity and market position, enabling the Group to meet the evolving needs of modern travellers across a range of segments.
Today, ONYX manages 49 properties and remains on track to expand its portfolio to more than 75 properties across Asia Pacific through a disciplined and sustainable growth strategy.
Yuthachai Charanachitta, Chief Executive Officer of ONYX Hospitality Group, said: “Over the past six decades, ONYX Hospitality Group has built a strong foundation of expertise and experience, growing from the management of a single hotel in Thailand into a regional hospitality player with an expanding presence across Asia Pacific, continuously earning the trust and confidence of both partners and customers.
This growth has been driven by a strong Thai foundation, combined with a global outlook and a strategic focus on regional markets, which have consistently served as the key pillars underpinning the Group’s development.
As we celebrate our 60th anniversary, we see this milestone not merely as a reflection of our past achievements, but as the beginning of our next phase of growth. Looking ahead, we remain committed to expanding our regional footprint, strengthening our brands, and creating long-term value for our partners, investors and customers, while continuing to develop the organisation in a balanced and sustainable manner. At the same time, we are dedicated to playing an active role in elevating service standards and supporting the long-term advancement of Thailand’s hospitality industry.”
Accelerating Expansion to Support Long-term Growth
ONYX Hospitality Group continues to expand its presence across Asia Pacific under its vision of becoming ‘The Best Medium-sized Hospitality Management Company in Asia Pacific’.
In 2026, the Group is set to launch several new projects, including Shama Sukhumvit 101 Bangkok, Shama Medini, and Y Hotel Nanshan Shenzhen Inspired by OZO, reinforcing its strategic expansion across the serviced apartment and lifestyle hospitality segments in key regional gateway cities.
At the same time, the Group continues to advance a strong future development pipeline, including Shama Rayong, EQ Phuket, Shama Hub Ladprao Bangkok, Shama North Pattaya, and the luxury development Amari Resort & Villas, Samui, alongside a major transformation of Amari Phuket aimed at revitalising the property and elevating the guest experience.
By 2030, ONYX aims to expand its portfolio from 49 properties to more than 75, with a focus on quality growth through long-term partnerships and a tailored approach to hospitality that reflects the needs of each market.
In addition to regional expansion, ONYX Hospitality Group is driving growth through effective asset management and investment strategies, with ONYX RT serving as another key growth engine. Supported by lower interest rates, recovering investor confidence, and the return of more than 35 million international travellers, the Group expects its core assets — including Amari Bangkok, OZO Samui, and OZO Phuket— to further enhance portfolio value, with a targeted valuation of more than THB 4 billion.
Strengthening Brand Positioning Across the Portfolio
As part of its 60th anniversary, ONYX Hospitality Group is advancing its overall brand development through its long-term strategic framework, “ONYX Universe”, which has been designed to support future growth across all dimensions of the business. The framework covers talent development, technology, sustainability, brand strength, marketing and revenue efficiency, customer engagement, food and beverage, and asset management to drive long-term returns. It will serve as a key foundation for enhancing the Group’s regional competitiveness while responding to the evolving needs of travellers and residents.
ONYX has also refined the positioning of its four core brands to strengthen differentiation and align more clearly with current market demand:
Amari has been repositioned in the upper-upscale segment, offering Thai hospitality enriched by local insight and the distinctive character of each destination.
OZO has evolved into an upper-midscale lifestyle hotel brand with enhanced service, designed for modern travellers who expect a seamless stay with the right essentials and a touch of elevated comfort.
Shama continues to focus on serviced apartment living, fostering vibrant communities while delivering Joy of Living through thoughtfully designed experiences that combine comfort, quality, and meaningful lifestyle for both short- and long-term stays.
Oriental Residence has been elevated to a more refined expression of luxury, where elegance is understated, privacy is paramount, and every detail is thoughtfully personalised.
This brand evolution reflects ONYX Hospitality Group’s commitment to creating clearer differentiation in support of long-term business growth.
Driving Sustainable Growth Through Regional Expansion and Brand Strength
Built on a 60-year legacy, ONYX Hospitality Group remains committed to growth through regional expansion, brand enhancement and continued organisational development. Anchored in its Thai roots and global outlook, the Group continues to place regional growth at the heart of its strategy as it works towards becoming the best medium-sized hospitality management company in Asia- Pacific, while delivering sustainable value to all stakeholders. Hashtag: #ONYXHospitalityGroup #HospitalityIndustry #AsiaPacificTravel
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About ONYX Hospitality Group
ONYX Hospitality Group, a reputable force in Asia Pacific’s hospitality industry, operates a collection of comprehensive yet complementary brands – Amari, OZO, Shama and Oriental Residence – catering to the distinctive needs of discerning business and leisure travellers in Southeast Asia where their expertise lies. In addition to its brand portfolio, ONYX Hospitality Group also operates additional hospitality services across spa and food and beverage. With over six decades of management experience, the company extends its innovative solutions throughout the region, upholding internationally recognised standards and ensuring optimal operational manoeuvrability. By fostering enduring relationships with like-minded business partners, ONYX Hospitality Group delivers unparalleled experiences in a dynamic and competitive market, meeting the ever-evolving demands of travellers.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 May 2026 – G2E Asia + Asian IR Expo opens today at The Venetian Macao, bringing together global leaders across gaming, entertainment, and integrated resorts as digital innovation continues to reshape the industry’s next phase of growth.
Taking place from May 12-14, 2026, the co-located events are expected to welcome 8,000 industry professionals from over 90 countries and regions. Spanning more than 30,000 sqm, the exhibition features over 150 brands showcasing next-generation technologies, immersive solutions, and digital infrastructure across the sector.
Against the backdrop of an estimated ~8% annual growth trajectory in Asia’s integrated resorts sector, according to a 2025 report by Research and Markets, the event underscores the region’s accelerating role as a global growth engine, where technology innovation and rising demand are increasingly converging.
Reflecting this shift, “Asia’s integrated resorts sector is entering a pivotal phase of transformation, as markets across the region continue to evolve with a broader mix of tourism, entertainment and lifestyle experiences,” said Yip Je Choong, Senior Vice President, Commercial, APAC, RX (Reed Exhibitions). “With G2E Asia and Asian IR Expo co-located, we are creating a platform that brings together stakeholders across the value chain to support innovation, collaboration and long-term, sustainable growth.”
Across the exhibition floor and conference programs, key industry leaders are actively engaging with peers to exchange insights and explore new opportunities for collaboration.
Leading Industry Figures Mark Opening Ceremony
The opening ceremony, held in the Expo Hall, officially marked the commencement of G2E Asia + Asian IR Expo 2026, with senior industry figures from across gaming, hospitality, and entertainment in attendance.
Guests included: (List to be provided)
Their participation reflects the industry’s sustained engagement and long-term commitment to advancing innovation across integrated resorts, gaming, and entertainment ecosystems.
Conference Programs Led by Global Industry Voices
G2E Asia and Asian IR Expo each feature dedicated three-day programs led by senior industry figures addressing technologies, regulations, and market forces shaping the sector’s future.
On Tuesday, May 12, Mr. Grant Chum, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of Sands China Ltd., delivers the opening keynote for G2E Asia Conference and Asian IR Summit, setting the strategic tone with insights into global industry trends shaping gaming and entertainment.
On Thursday, May 14, Mr. Mario Yau Kwan Ho, Chairman and Co-Chief Executive Officer of NIP Group INC., and Co-owner of Boston Celtics, is set to present a keynote for Asian IR Summit, offering perspectives on global market shifts and the evolving integrated resorts landscape.
Across both programs, speakers include:
Mr. Adrian Lee, Head of Sales, Google Customer Solutions, Hong Kong & Macau, Google
Mr. AI Watson, Chief Executive Officer, Dataworks Group
Mr. Alan Teo, Chief Executive Officer, Hoiana Resort & Golf
Mr. Cheng Wai Tong, Deputy Director, Macao Government Tourism Office
Mr. Gregory Hawkins, President and Chief Operating Officer, Solaire
Mr. Joseph Bufalino, Executive Director of Responsible Gambling, Marina Bay Sands
Mr. Kenneth Feng, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, MGM China Holdings Limited
Mr. Walt Power, Chief Executive Officer, The Grand Ho Tram
And more.
Event Highlights Across May 12-14
Across three days, the co-located event presents a curated ecosystem of exhibition, education, and industry networking experiences.
Exhibition (May 12-14) Discover innovation across gaming, entertainment, and integrated resorts, with more than 150 brands spanning the full industry ecosystem.
G2E Asia Conference (May 12-14) Access critical market insights, regulatory developments, and business opportunities across Asia from the region’s leading platform for gaming and entertainment leaders.
Asian IR Summit (May 12-14) Explore strategic insights across hospitality, technology, sports, and entertainment with senior leaders across the evolving integrated resorts sector.
Tech Talk (May 12) Gain actionable insights from leading experts on leveraging Artificial Intelligence, applying Machine Learning in real-world operations, and using data to drive smarter, more profitable decisions.
May 12 Slots Networking: Engage in exclusive roundtables for slots operators and suppliers to co-design next-generation gaming cabinets with embedded biometric feedback.
May 12 G2E Asia After Party: Unwind with industry peers at a Venetian-themed gala featuring a live preview of 2027’s most anticipated VR casino suite.
May 13 Table Games Networking: Exchange insights between operators and providers on gameplay evolution, innovation, and future table game ecosystems.
Be Part of the Future of Entertainment and Integrated Resorts
Industry professionals from gaming, entertainment, and integrated resorts sectors – including operators, providers, and hospitality experts – will gain strategic insights, networking opportunities, and explore cutting-edge innovations that are shaping the future of the sector.
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World-First Innovations Showcase Hong Kong’s Thriving Life and Health Tech Ecosystem from Bench to Bedside
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 May 2026 – Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) joined alongside 38 Park companies in the two flagship events of the 5th International Healthcare Week — the Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair (“Medical Fair”) and the Asia Summit on Global Health (“ASGH”), held from 11 – 13 May. Showcasing at these premier medical innovation and technology (I&T) events, HKSTP is demonstrating its pivotal role in nurturing and supporting the growth of biotechnology enterprises. During ASGH, HKSTP also hosted a dedicated investor pitch session, providing Park companies with an exclusive stage to connect directly with global capital and pursue fundraising opportunities.
HKSTP joined Medical Fair and Asia Summit on Global Health with 38 Park companies, comprehensively demonstrating the diverse strengths of Hong Kong’s life and health technology sector as it progresses from R&D to commercial application.
Over 30 Market-Ready Solutions across Four Key Industry Focus
On the opening day of the Medical Fair, the HKSTP pavilion drew numerous industry professionals, investors and professional buyers, who gathered to explore Hong Kong’s latest I&T achievements and actively discuss collaboration opportunities. Participating companies span four critical areas — health monitoring, surgical assistance, precision medicine, rehabilitation training — comprehensively demonstrating the diverse strengths of Hong Kong’s life and health technology sector as it progresses from research and development (R&D) to commercial application.
Mr Terry Wong, CEO of HKSTP, said: “HKSTP has always been a steadfast partner to tech ventures, building a vibrant and well-established ecosystem for biotech companies ranging from start-ups with early-stage innovation to experienced innovators with market-ready solutions. To meet their diverse needs, we offer end-to-end support from R&D to clinical applications, including lab facilities, funding connections and market expansion. Our presence at this event fully reflects the innovative vitality and strength of Hong Kong’s life and health tech ecosystem. We hope to showcase Hong Kong’s cutting-edge medical R&D achievements to the international community, while delivering a clear message: Hong Kong is not only a top-tier scientific research base, but also the strongest springboard for technology enterprises to go global. By uniting forces across all sectors, we will further solidify Hong Kong’s leadership as an international health tech hub.”
Park company Highlights:
Endovision offers an intestinal endoscopic imaging system that leverages AI and real-time imaging to assist physicians in conducting more precise examinations. The solution has already obtained EU Medical Device Regulation (MDR) certification.
Mirror Caring presents SyncKnee, a smart wearable solution integrating flexible sensors, embedded systems and AI analytics to deliver real-time monitoring of knee joint health and data-driven insights.
Voice Empowerment Technology features a customised “AI Voice Reconstruction Tool” designed to enhance the efficiency of speech therapy services, offering breakthrough communication support for patients with aphasia and speech disorders.
“World-First” Cutting-Edge Medical Technologies Take Centre Stage
This year, HKSTP has also set up a dedicated exhibition zone at the Asia Summit on Global Health (ASGH), spotlighting a range of groundbreaking biomedical solutions, including several “world-first” innovations:
Agilis Robotics: The world’s first robotic-assisted “En Bloc Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumour”, achieving precise tumour resection margins and offering a minimally invasive surgical option with faster recovery for early-stage cancer patients.
GenEditBio: The world’s first in vivo genome editing therapy (often referred to as “DNA surgery”) targeting corneal dystrophy, with Phase I clinical trials expected to commence this year, aiming to improve patients’ quality of life.
Meta Pharmaceuticals: The world’s first oral inhibitor for treating autoimmune diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease and multiple sclerosis, enhancing medication convenience and delivering safer, more effective anti-inflammatory therapy.
Dedicated Investor Pitch Session: Connecting Global Capital to Accelerate Enterprise Growth
For early-stage biotech companies, funding is crucial to sustaining research and achieving breakthroughs. To this end, HKSTP is fulfilling its role as a “super-connector” by hosting the “Life and Health Technology Innovation Pitch” at ASGH, to bridge between Park companies and the global market and deepen international partnerships.
HKSTP hosted the “Life and Health Technology Innovation Pitch” session, providing Park companies with an exclusive stage to connect directly with 12 global investors and pursue fundraising opportunities.
The pitch session bought together 12 leading global investors from the UK, the US, Singapore, Canada and beyond, creating a top-tier platform for fundraising and business matching, and accelerating the translation of life and health tech innovations. Ten Park companies with breakthrough technologies took the stage to attract international capital, further showcase their innovative solutions and advance to the next stage of growth and global expansion.
Event Details: Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair (Medical Fair) Date: 11–13 May 2026 Venue: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Hall 3DE HKSTP Booth: 3E-E06
Asia Summit on Global Health (ASGH) Date: 11–12 May 2026 Venue: Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, Hall 3FG HKSTP Booth: 3F-A11 Hashtag: #HKSTP
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation
Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) was established in 2001 to create a thriving I&T ecosystem grooming 13 unicorns, more than 17,000 research professionals and over 2,500 technology companies from 26 countries and regions focused on developing healthtech, AI and robotics, fintech and smart city technologies, etc.
Our growing innovation ecosystem offers comprehensive support to attract and nurture talent, accelerate and commercialise innovation for technology ventures, with the I&T journey built around our key locations of Hong Kong Science Park in Pak Shek Kok, InnoCentre in Kowloon Tong and three modern InnoParks in Tai Po, Tseung Kwan O and Yuen Long realising a vision of new industrialisation for Hong Kong, where sectors including advanced manufacturing, micro-electronics and biotechnology are being reimagined.
Hong Kong Science Park Shenzhen Branch in Futian, Shenzhen plays positive roles in connecting the world and the mainland with our proximity, strengthening cross-border exchange to bring advantages in attracting global talent and allowing possibilities for the development of technology companies in seven key areas: Medtech, big data and AI, robotics, new materials, microelectronics, fintech and sustainability, with both dry and wet laboratories, co-working space, conference and exhibition facilities, and more.
Through our R&D infrastructure, startup support and enterprise services, commercialisation and investment expertise, partnership networks and talent traction, HKSTP continues to contribute in establishing I&T as a pillar of growth for Hong Kong.
More information about HKSTP is available at www.hkstp.org.
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CapBridge Pte Ltd has teamed up with Sun Life Singapore to distribute SunBrilliance insurance solutions to high-net-worth individuals and family offices, strengthening its push beyond private-market investments into wealth protection and succession planning.
The collaboration gives CapBridge clients access to Sun Life Singapore’s SunBrilliance Indexed Universal Life II, a permanent life insurance product designed for families seeking cross-border wealth transfer, estate liquidity and long-term legacy planning. The product is targeted at global high-net-worth clients who want life cover alongside cash-value growth linked to market performance, while retaining protection against negative index returns.
CapBridge, a Singapore-headquartered digital investment platform and member of FOMO Group, has been expanding its wealth offering for mass affluent investors, HNWIs and institutional clients. Its platform provides access to private and public market opportunities, including funds, digital asset funds, stocks, bonds and equities, while also arranging life insurance products through licensed partners. The company is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and holds a capital markets services licence for dealing in capital market products and providing custodian services.
Sun Life Singapore, formally Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada Singapore Branch, is part of Sun Life Financial Inc., the Canada-based financial services group listed on the Toronto, New York and Philippine stock exchanges under the ticker symbol SLF. The Singapore branch focuses on wealth preservation, growth and transfer solutions for affluent and high-net-worth clients, positioning the city-state as a core hub for its Asian insurance and legacy planning business.
SunBrilliance Indexed Universal Life II is denominated in US dollars and offers whole-life coverage with a minimum sum assured of US$500,000. The product allows policyholders to allocate premiums to indexed and fixed accounts, with indexed returns linked to the S&P 500. It includes lifetime protection, flexible premium and death benefit arrangements, and downside protection through a guaranteed floor. The plan is positioned for clients seeking a balance between market participation and capital preservation in succession structures.
The tie-up comes as Singapore’s wealth management sector continues to attract family offices and internationally mobile capital. Single-family offices in Singapore rose to about 2,000 in 2024 from 1,650 a year earlier, reflecting the city-state’s appeal as a base for governance, investment structuring and succession planning. Wealth managers and insurers have been competing to serve families from Greater China, Southeast Asia, South Asia and the Middle East, many of whom are looking for multi-jurisdictional solutions that combine investment access, insurance, tax planning and estate continuity.
Demand for indexed universal life products has grown as wealthy families seek instruments that can provide insurance protection while allowing some participation in equity-market upside. Such products are often used to address estate tax liquidity, business succession, charitable planning and intergenerational asset transfer. They can also help families ring-fence assets for beneficiaries while maintaining flexibility in premium schedules and policy structures.
For CapBridge, the collaboration adds another layer to a platform that has already moved beyond private-market access into broader portfolio and wealth planning services. The company’s earlier partnerships in insurance and investment access show an effort to build a more integrated proposition for accredited and high-net-worth clients who prefer consolidated digital execution rather than dealing separately with brokers, banks, custodians and insurers.
For Sun Life Singapore, the arrangement widens distribution for its high-net-worth insurance suite through a digital platform serving investors already active in alternative assets and private markets. That client base is increasingly relevant for life insurers as family offices allocate more capital across private equity, private credit, structured products and global equities, while also requiring protection products to manage wealth transfer risk.
The collaboration also reflects a broader industry shift in Asia, where life insurers are moving closer to private banks, external asset managers and digital investment platforms. Insurance products are no longer being marketed only as protection tools; they are being embedded into wealth architecture, particularly for families with assets, heirs and business interests spread across several jurisdictions.
BDC intends to further deploy HVO-powered energy solutions across its data centres in Asia Pacific and beyond
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 12 May 2026 – Bridge Data Centres (BDC), a Singapore-headquartered hyperscale data centre provider, and EcoCeres, a global leader in the innovation and commercialisation of renewable fuels and green molecules, have successfully completed their inaugural Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO)-powered backup fuel pilot in Asia Pacific at BDC’s data centre campuses. HVO is a next-generation renewable fuel derived from 100% waste-based feedstock and serves as a high-quality drop-in substitute for conventional fossil diesel. It requires no modifications to existing backup generators and reduces greenhouse gas emissions by up to 90 per cent.
The pilot covered the full range of emergency backup power scenarios, including generator startup, load transfer and sustained operations under data centre conditions, with all performance and emissions targets met. In addition, BDC has completed large-scale HVO testing across multiple locations. Building on the success of the pilot, BDC intends to further deploy HVO-powered solutions across its data centre campus in Asia Pacific and beyond.
Eric Fan, CEO of Bridge Data Centres, said: “Sustainability is core to BDC’s strategy. As AI workloads continue to scale across the region, we are committed to advancing innovative clean energy solutions that reduce our carbon footprint while meeting the performance and reliability requirements of our hyperscale customers. The success of our inaugural pilot in Asia Pacific demonstrates that HVO-powered backup fuel is a feasible and replicable concept for other high-growth data centre markets.”
Matti Lievonen, CEO of EcoCeres, said: “Decarbonising data centres is one of the most urgent and technically demanding challenges in the net zero transition, and we are proud to partner with Bridge Data Centres to demonstrate that HVO is ready to perform at scale in real-world operations. By proving that waste based renewable fuels can meet stringent reliability and performance requirements in existing diesel backup systems, this pilot offers a practical way for operators to significantly reduce emissions while maintaining the highest standards of reliability.”
The milestone comes after BDC and EcoCeres signed a Memorandum of Understanding to jointly pilot and promote HVO adoption in data centre operations.
BDC and EcoCeres will collaborate further to develop common standards and practical guidelines to support broader HVO adoption across the data centre industry.
The partnership is part of BDC’s wider push to advance clean energy solutions for data centres, which includes developing Singapore’s first floating hydrogen power generation solution tailored for next-generation AI data centres. Hashtag: #BridgeDataCentres, #RenewableEnergy, #HydrotreatedVegetableOil
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Bridge Data Centres
Bridge Data Centres (BDC) is a Singapore-headquartered hyperscale data centre provider delivering high-performance, next-ready infrastructure across Asia Pacific. Backed by Bain Capital, BDC operates in Malaysia, Thailand, India, and other high-growth markets, with the capability to deliver up to 3 gigawatts (GW) of capacity globally by 2030 through partnerships with sister platforms in Europe and the United States.
EcoCeres
EcoCeres, a pure-play renewable fuels producer, is a global leader pioneering in-house vertically-integrated technologies to decarbonise and defossilise hard-to-abate industries.
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