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Economists led by Chetan Ahya have drawn a parallel with electric vehicles, where early policy support, component localisation and aggressive production expansion turned China from a fast follower into the world’s dominant exporter. Their research projects China’s share of global manufacturing could rise to 16.5 per cent by 2030, from about 15 per cent now, as advanced automation and embodied artificial intelligence move from demonstration projects into factory and logistics use.

The bullish case rests on China’s widening lead in humanoid robot production. Industry estimates show the country produced about 12,800 humanoid robots in 2025, close to 90 per cent of global output, though the market remains tiny compared with conventional industrial robotics. China also remains the world’s largest industrial robot market, accounting for more than half of global factory robot installations in 2024, with an operational stock above 2 million units.

That foundation matters because humanoid robots require the same manufacturing strengths that supported China’s rise in solar panels, batteries and electric vehicles: precision motors, sensors, actuators, batteries, control systems, machine vision and low-cost assembly. Local companies are building ecosystems around these components, while provincial governments are offering subsidies, industrial parks and procurement support to accelerate commercial deployment.

Beijing has identified humanoid robots as a strategic industry, setting targets for mass production and global leadership while integrating robotics into wider plans for artificial intelligence and advanced manufacturing. The 15th Five-Year Plan framework is expected to place AI-powered robots near the centre of industrial upgrading, although large-scale commercialisation is more likely toward the later part of the plan period than immediately.

The sector’s momentum has drawn major private capital. Start-ups such as Unitree, UBTech, AgiBot and Fourier Intelligence have moved quickly from stage demonstrations to pilot factory and warehouse deployments. Linkerbot, a fast-growing maker of dexterous robotic hands, is seeking a valuation of about $6 billion after building a strong position in high-degree-of-freedom robotic hands used in humanoids and industrial systems. Its modular products point to an important feature of the market: some of the earliest profits may come from components rather than complete humanoid machines.

Automakers and electronics groups are also moving into the field. Xpeng has said humanoid robotics could become a long-term investment area alongside electric vehicles, while other manufacturers are testing robots for inspection, sorting, materials handling and repetitive shop-floor tasks. The logic is clear. China faces an ageing workforce, rising labour costs in coastal manufacturing hubs and growing pressure from tariff barriers. A successful humanoid robotics industry could help preserve competitiveness even as low-cost labour advantages fade.

The export implications are broader than robot sales. If humanoids improve productivity in Chinese factories, they could lower production costs across electronics, machinery, appliances and consumer goods. That would reinforce the country’s position in global supply chains at a time when the United States, Europe and several Asian economies are trying to reduce dependence on Chinese manufacturing. It could also create a new export category in robots, components, software and maintenance services.

Yet the constraints remain substantial. Humanoid robots are still expensive, often have limited battery life and struggle with unstructured environments. Many can perform scripted tasks in controlled settings but fall short when asked to handle the speed, judgement and dexterity of human workers. Even executives in China’s robotics industry acknowledge that factory humanoids remain less efficient than people in many jobs. Safety certification, liability rules, data protection and workplace integration will also affect adoption.

Dependence on high-end chips and advanced software ecosystems is another weakness. US restrictions on AI semiconductors have pushed Chinese firms to localise more hardware, but training and deploying capable embodied AI systems remains compute-intensive. Without steady access to cutting-edge chips, progress may be uneven, particularly in models that require real-time perception, movement planning and continuous learning.

The BGI, presented Wednesday by an international group of governance scholars, analyses measurable benchmarks of democratic accountability across 145 countries.

On a 100-point scale, the global score for democratic accountability slipped slightly from 65 in 2000 to 64 in 2023, the most recent data used in the project. The wave of democratisation observed in the closing decades of the last century has stalled in the last 15 years. Democratic accountability fell in 54 countries while it improved in 48 countries.

Yet the BGI — a collaborative project of the Luskin School of Public Affairs at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Berlin’s Hertie School and the Berggruen Institute, a think tank headquartered in Los Angeles — captures remarkably widespread growth in provision of public goods.

Encompassing healthcare, education, infrastructure, environmental sustainability and conditions to foster employment and rising prosperity, public goods improved in 135 of the countries studied, while declining slightly in just four. The global average jumped from 58 to 69 points from 2000 to 2023.

The third component of what the BGI authors refer to as the “governance triangle” is state capacity, defined as the ability to tax, borrow and spend, control territory, operate scrupulous, competent bureaucracies and administer predictable rule of law. The index finds the global average ticking up from 48 to 49 points; 56 countries had increased state capacity while 57 declined.

“What does it tell us about the world ahead?” Prof. Helmut K. Anheier, a Luskin School sociologist and BGI principal investigator, asked during the public release of the 2026 BGI on the UCLA campus.

“Countries are not really improving in their governance performance in significant ways. … We’re not really having forward-looking investment in governance capacity. There is considerable inertia.”

The largest improvements across all three BGI components occurred in Gambia, which the report groups with “low-capacity developing states.” These states score low across the board, particularly in the provision of public goods. This cluster constitutes the poorest countries with the least developed economies, which face the most serious challenges.

“They have the greatest exposure to likely future crises, whether it’s global warming, whether it’s a new pandemic, whether it’s another financial crisis, whether it’s the impact of AI,” Anheier said. “And they have the least capacity to respond to it.”

Bhutan, Georgia, Iraq and Tunisia — which make up the remaining top five countries with the largest improvements in the BGI — are classified as “capacity-constrained states.” They tend to be middle-income with struggling democracies. These countries score higher across the board than the low-capacity developing states, but their state capacity tends to lag compared to public goods and democratic accountability.

The capacity-constrained states risk falling into “a cycle that erodes the institutions they have built,” Anheier said.

“Consolidated democratic states”, a cluster of most of the world’s richest countries, which score highly in all three BGI components, have to confront domestic complacency. Further, in the United States and some others, “political dysfunction” is leaving mounting problems unaddressed and risking erosion of state capacity, Anheier said.

At the other end of the spectrum, the country with the farthest fall on the BGI since 2000 is Nicaragua. Second from last is Venezuela, followed by Hong Kong, Hungary and Turkey. The rest of the bottom 10 are Russia, Iran, Poland, El Salvador and Belarus.

Since 2023, which is the last year of data available for the study, Poland and Hungary have both seen government changes via election, despite serious democratic backsliding. Both had fallen out of the group of “consolidated democratic states” by 2023 and moved into the capacity constrained cluster.

The other eight countries at the bottom of the list are all places that once had some semblance of competitive elections, but by now have little or no remaining pretense of democracy. They are grouped by the authors among the “authoritarian and hybrid states”, which have by far the lowest democratic accountability but outperform even some struggling democracies in delivering public goods.

These regimes have tended toward faster economic growth in the period observed. But that seeming prosperity, typically fueled by extractive industries or overreliance on exports, masks “serious institutional weaknesses in these countries, including divided elites,” Anheier said.

Relatively few countries — 21 of the 145 — changed enough for better or worse to be classified in a new group by the end of the 23-year study period.

“Movement between them is rare, but this is largely what we should expect,” said Stella Ghervas, a UCLA historian on a panel of experts who discussed the BGI findings Wednesday. “Government systems are not created in a moment. They evolve over long periods of time.”

Local conditions shaping governance in each country can rarely be quickly reset through political will or even external shocks, Joseph C. Saraceno, a Luskin School data scientist and BGI co-author, said Wednesday.

“Despite all the talk of major transformations happening in global affairs, the underlying configuration of governance simply doesn’t appear to change very much,” Saraceno said. “We use the term inertia to describe this reoccurring pattern. In other words, the structures of global governance are resistant to movement as the conditions beneath them are quite sticky: political economies, demographics, resource endowments. These are deeply layered, and they push each country toward the world that it already inhabits.”

But the challenges lurking around the world may not wait for the slow and difficult processes of political change and development to catch up.

“With the few exceptions of those countries in the consolidated democratic world,” Anheier said, “the great majority of the countries in the world is ill-prepared for the future.”

The full report, ‘ 2026 Berggruen Governance Index – The Four Worlds of Governance‘, can be viewed and downloaded from the website of the UCLA’s Luskin School.

Frank Fuhrig, DNA

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The DNA content is an independent journalistic service that operates separately from the other services of the participating agencies. It is produced by editorial units that are not involved in the production of the agencies’ main news services. Nevertheless, the editorial standards of the agencies and their assurance of completely independent, impartial and unbiased reporting also apply here.

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In the Philippines, the VF MPV 7 is priced at PHP 1,518,000 for the battery-included version and PHP 1,239,000 under the battery subscription model. The flexible battery subscription policy is tailored to real-world usage needs, with a monthly fee of PHP 2,700 for distances of up to 2,000 km and PHP 4,150 for distances exceeding 2,000 km.

Starting from May 5, 2026, customers can place orders for the VF MPV 7 through VinFast dealerships nationwide. Notably, until May 31, 2026, the first 1,000 customers will be entitled to a promotional program, including one year of free battery subscription for usage of up to 2,000 km per month. Customers opting to purchase the vehicle with battery included will receive a direct discount of PHP 27,200.

Positioned as a versatile 7-seater electric MPV for families, the VF MPV 7 targets customers seeking a meaningful upgrade from conventional MPVs. With the MPV segment accounting for nearly 20% of total automotive sales in the Philippines, the VF MPV 7 offers a well-balanced solution combining spaciousness, strong performance, and competitive ownership costs, addressing the most critical criteria for family vehicle buyers.

The VF MPV 7 measures 4,740 x 1,872 x 1,734 mm with a 2,840 mm wheelbase, delivering interior space that exceeds typical segment standards and suits the needs of multi-generational families. The vehicle is developed around the “golden ratio” characteristic of MPVs, with wheels pushed toward the corners to optimize cabin space. This is combined with a modern design language, VinFast’s signature V-shaped LED daytime running lights, and 19-inch alloy wheels, creating a well-balanced and robust appearance.

The interior is configured to maximize space and practicality, ensuring comfort for all occupants, including those in the third row. Cargo capacity reaches up to 1,240 liters, providing flexibility for both daily use and long-distance travel. The VF MPV 7 is equipped with an electric motor delivering 150 kW of power and 280 Nm of torque, paired with a 60.13 kWh battery, enabling a driving range of up to 450 km on a full charge under NEDC standards. Fast-charging capability allows the battery to charge from 10% to 70% in approximately 30 minutes, ensuring flexible operation in real-world conditions.

Notably, the VF MPV 7 offers a clear advantage in monthly operating costs, as energy expenses remain stable and significantly lower than those of gasoline-powered vehicles in the same segment, helping optimize total cost of ownership over the long term. Owners also benefit from free charging at V-Green stations across the Philippines through March 2029, along with a 7-year or 160,000 km vehicle warranty and a 10-year or 200,000 km battery warranty, among the best in the segment.

Mr. Antonio Zara, CEO of VinFast Southeast Asia, said: “The launch of the VF MPV 7 in the Philippines marks another step forward in VinFast’s global expansion strategy and demonstrates our long-term commitment to this market. With its spacious interior, strong performance, optimized operating costs, and sustainable ownership value, we believe the VF MPV 7 will serve as a comprehensive upgrade for Filipino families and set a new benchmark in the MPV segment.”

Alongside the product introduction, VinFast has continued to strengthen its comprehensive electric mobility ecosystem in the Philippines by expanding its dealership and aftersales network. The company is also implementing attractive policies such as free charging, long-term warranties, and flexible buying solutions to lower barriers to EV adoption and enhance the overall ownership experience.

Hashtag: #VinFast

https://vinfastauto.id/

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• Screening 104 Matches across 3 Major Malls, with over 40% Morning Kick-offs and Dedicated Family Zones to Encourage Cross-Generational Football Viewing
• Olympian City “Classic x New”, tmtplaza “Football King Challenge”, Citywalk “Baby Football Mania”
• More than 50 Activities to be held, with Double-Digit Growth Expected in Football and Sports-Related Retail Sales

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 6 May 2026 – The highly anticipated quadrennial major football event will kick off in mid-June, igniting excitement among fans citywide. Committed to supporting international sporting events, Sino Group announces that its shopping malls will be screening the tournament in full for the fourth consecutive edition. The Group will invest over HK$8 million in promotional spending. Its three flagship malls — Olympian City, tmtplaza and Citywalk — will broadcast all 104 matches live in high definition on giant LED screens, offering the public an immersive stadium-like experience and uniting fans across Hong Kong in celebration of global football fever.

Ms. Bella Chhoa, Chief Commercial Officer of Sino Group, remarked: “Sino Group has long been dedicated to promoting local sports development and major international sporting events. This year, over 40% of the matches will kick off in the morning Hong Kong time, creating a unique ‘morning sports economy’. Beyond core football fans, the early kick‑offs are ideal for families, allowing parents, children and even three generations to enjoy breakfast together while watching matches. A dedicated family viewing zone and morning match viewing parties will be introduced at Olympian City to encourage football culture across generations. In total, over 50 football‑themed activities will be organised across the malls, catering to toddlers, families, hardcore fans and e‑sports enthusiasts alike, seeking to unite the city and share the excitement. In addition, nearly 100 merchants will roll out special promotions in phases across dining, sportswear and electronics categories and more.” She added that the Group expects the football frenzy to significantly boost local consumption, with double‑digit year‑on‑year growth anticipated in both mall footfall and sales performance of sports‑related retailers.

To enhance the viewing experience, matches will be broadcast on the 430‑inch and 540‑inch giant LED screens at Olympian City and tmtplaza respectively, with Citywalk also offering simultaneous HD live broadcasts, bringing fans from across the city together to cheer on their favourite teams.

Olympian City: “Classic x New” Football Fun for All Generations

Yapp Hung Fai Appears with Three Generations of Family | Classic “Watermelon Ball” Meets the New Football Challenges

As the main broadcasting hub, Olympian City will screen all 104 matches in full and, in view of the strong appeal of morning fixtures, will set up a dedicated Family Zone with family seating and cheering props for all 44 morning matches, bringing families together to jointly experience a world‑class sporting spectacle. 3 special morning match viewing parties will offer breakfast menus including Chinese dim sum, Hong Kong-style pineapple buns and Western fast food, allowing fans to enjoy breakfast while cheering for their favourite teams.

Under the theme of “Classic x New”, Olympian City welcomes the Hong Kong Footballer of the Year, Yapp Hung Fai, who will attend with his father and four‑year‑old son to share stories of football heritage across generations, alongside a series of interactive highlights including a 3.5-metre-tall classic “Watermelon Ball” photo spot, retro arcade football game on a 430-inch LED screen, traditional tabletop football, innovative under-table football and a 2-on-2 mini match featuring age-grouped competitions, allowing children and adults alike to experience the joy of football from multiple perspectives.

tmtplaza: Clear 10 Rounds to Win Up To HK$40,000 in cash vouchers at “Football King Challenge”

tmtplaza will partner with PlayStation to present the highlight weekend event “Football King Challenge”, featuring PlayStation®5 EA SPORTS FC™ 26 gameplay in a classic knockout format. Participants who clear 10 consecutive rounds can win HK$10,000 S Coupons, with no quota limit. The top 16 finalists will advance to the grand finale to compete for the Football King title and HK$30,000 worth of S Coupons, also a chance to challenge well‑known KOLs onsite. A dedicated PS5 football gaming experience zone will be open to the public, allowing e-sports players and football fans alike to showcase their skills in the virtual arena.

Beyond e‑sports, the mall actively promotes youth sports development. In collaboration with local football academy LBRO, football experience sessions and regular interest classes for children aged 3 to 10 will be held from May at tmtp commons, led by professional coaches to nurture interest, teamwork and perseverance.

Additionally, the mall atrium will transform into a giant football field, featuring 11 international football stars reimagined by local designers as 2‑metre‑tall Q‑style inflatable “Football Stars” for photo‑taking.

Citywalk: Kick-Off for All Ages – From Babies to Seniors

In addition to live match broadcasts, Citywalk will roll out a series of football‑themed activities designed to engage participants of all ages, launching with “Baby Football Mania”, which features football‑inspired crawling and obstacle courses for babies, alongside “Senior Football Adventures”, offering football fitness exercises tailored for elderly participants. The programme will be rounded out by the “Goddess of Goals Challenge”, a pop‑up interactive game inviting shoppers of different generations to join in, ensuring that children, families and seniors alike can share in the excitement of the football spectacle together.

More exciting programmes will be announced soon. Stay tuned for more.
Hashtag: #SinoGroup #OlympianCity #tmtplaza #Citywalk

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

According to Bank Negara Malaysia’s (“BNM”) Annual Report 2025, Islamic financing continues to show strong growth, accounting for approximately 48% of Malaysia’s total financing or equivalent to RM1.219 trillion, reflecting increasing demand for Shariah-compliant offerings.

Through this partnership, IBPO aims to further strengthen its Shariah Governance framework and ensure that its financial products and programs are structured in accordance with recognised Shariah Principles. This reflects IBPO’s continued focus on transparency, responsibility and inclusivity across its financial services offerings while supporting BNM’s efforts to promote a progressive and inclusive Islamic Financial system.

The MOU signing ceremony was officiated by Andy Lim, Founder and Group Managing Director of IBPO Group Berhad and M. Aminuddin Bin Ismail, Managing Director of Afsha Shariah Advisory Sdn. Bhd.

In conjunction with this appointment IBPO is also introducing its latest financing program, i-Personal Financing. With Afsha’s appointment as official Shariah Advisor, IBPO’s Islamic financing programs including i-Personal Financing, i-Bridge Financing and Payday Financing will be supported by Afsha in ensuring consistent Shariah Compliance.

i-Personal Financing is designed to give customers easy access to cash based on their income levels. It offers responsible and affordable financing amounts along with flexible payment options of 3, 6, 9 or 12 months, aligned with monthly salary cycles for greater convenience and peace of mind.

All financing solutions are accessible via IBPO’s Online Customer Financial AI Portal which provides a 360-degree view of customers’ financial commitments including those with other financial institutions while offering AI-driven insights to help users better manage and optimise their finances. This initiative is part of IBPO’s ongoing efforts to leverage AI-driven capabilities to build an integrated financial ecosystem across the Group and its subsidiaries including IBPO Genesis Sdn. Bhd., IBPO Credit System Sdn. Bhd., IBPO Capital Ventures Sdn. Bhd. and IBPO Property Sdn. Bhd.

“We are proud to have Afsha as our official Shariah Advisor as we strengthen our position as Malaysia’s trusted choice for Islamic financing. This further reinforces our ongoing commitment to delivering inclusive, ethical and comprehensive Islamic Financial ecosystem that contributes positively to the economy and broader society. This allows us to deliver value to those seeking Shariah-aligned options, while remaining accessible to all, giving our customers greater confidence in what we provide,” said Andy Lim, Founder & Group Managing Director of IBPO Group Berhad.

“We are honoured to partner with IBPO Group Berhad as their official Shariah Advisor. At the core of actively disseminating Shariah principles across the financial sector, our mission is to enable our clients to achieve their optimum potential by ensuring that their policies and practices strictly comply with Shariah rules and regulations through the highest standards of professional competence. We look forward to guiding IBPO in structuring ethical and transparent Shariah-compliant financing solutions that meet the growing demand in Malaysia’s Islamic financial ecosystem,” said M. Aminuddin Bin Ismail, Managing Director of Afsha Shariah Advisory Sdn. Bhd.
Hashtag: #IBPOGroupBerhad #IslamicFinancing #ShariahCompliance

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

IBPO Group Berhad

Our financial programs include; i-Refinancing, i-Connect, i-Console Plus, Payday Financing, i-Bridge Financing, i-Personal Financing and Housing Value Investment. Discover personalised solutions tailored to your needs with mortgage refinancing, personal loans and financing, property management and more. To learn more, visit www.ibpo.com.my.

Email: [email protected]

Afsha Shariah Advisory Sdn. Bhd.

Email: [email protected]