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Japan’s foreign ministry confirmed on Thursday that the initial project would cost approximately $10 billion, with construction scheduled to begin before the end of 2026. Expansion of production facilities could eventually raise the total investment to about $21 billion, although the second factory remains conditional.

The agreement forms part of a $550 billion Japanese investment commitment negotiated with President Donald Trump’s administration in 2025, alongside a reduction in American tariffs on Japanese vehicles and other imports to 15 per cent.

GlobalFoundries said the first manufacturing plant at its existing Malta campus would begin production in 2029. An additional investment of approximately $10 billion would finance a second facility, with a decision on that expansion expected before the end of 2028.

Japan will supply the investment capital, while GlobalFoundries will provide manufacturing technology, technical expertise and operational management. The factories will be jointly owned by American and Japanese interests under an arrangement intended to expand semiconductor output without requiring the company to finance construction itself.

The first plant is expected to produce approximately 900,000 silicon wafers measuring 300 millimetres annually when fully operational. A second plant would add comparable capacity, substantially increasing the company’s manufacturing footprint in upstate New York.

GlobalFoundries estimates that the initiative will support approximately 27,000 construction and associated supply-chain jobs, alongside more than 1,000 skilled manufacturing positions in New York’s Capital Region. Those figures are projections rather than employment already created.

The US Commerce Department will separately receive an equity interest of approximately four per cent in GlobalFoundries. Chief executive Tim Breen said the transaction would raise the government’s overall holding to about seven per cent. The company is majority owned by Abu Dhabi’s Mubadala Investment Company.

GlobalFoundries shares advanced after the announcement, reflecting investor interest in an expansion model that could increase manufacturing capacity while limiting construction expenditure.

The ownership arrangements distinguish the investment from conventional private-sector semiconductor expansion. Japanese financing will underpin the factories, while the American government will gain a larger financial interest in the operator and participate in the broader manufacturing initiative.

GlobalFoundries also agreed with the Commerce Department to revise an existing award under the CHIPS and Science Act, reallocating $955 million towards investments in silicon photonics, silicon-germanium technology and advanced packaging at facilities in Malta and Burlington, Vermont.

These technologies are used in communications systems and data centres, where manufacturers are seeking faster connections and more efficient processing of large volumes of information. The separate funding revision does not represent an additional Japanese commitment to the two factories.

Japan’s foreign ministry described the New York project as the first semiconductor investment under the bilateral Strategic Investment Initiative announced in September 2025. It said the initiative was intended to strengthen supplies of mature-node chips used in automobiles, industrial machinery, smartphones and artificial intelligence data centres.

Although attention has focused heavily on advanced processors for artificial intelligence, mature-node semiconductors remain essential components in vehicles, industrial equipment and connected devices. Their availability is important to manufacturers seeking more geographically diversified supply chains.

The first facility will be built at an established semiconductor manufacturing location, allowing the investment to draw on existing industrial infrastructure and a local workforce. However, the announced timetable does not mean projected production capacity will be available immediately when operations begin.

Breen said GlobalFoundries had been chosen because large fabrication projects required manufacturing expertise and operational capabilities alongside financing. US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick welcomed the investment as a contribution to domestic manufacturing and employment.

The Japanese government expects the project to create commercial opportunities for its semiconductor equipment and materials suppliers. Tokyo Electron and SCREEN Holdings have expressed interest in supplying manufacturing equipment, while Tokyo Ohka Kogyo has indicated interest in materials and components.

Renesas Electronics, a major Japanese chipmaker supplying automotive and industrial customers, has expressed interest in purchasing output from the proposed facilities. Its participation could provide an important customer relationship as production plans advance.

Japan’s foreign ministry also identified smaller suppliers, including Fujikin and Kusakawa Seiki, as potential participants in the equipment and materials supply chain. Their involvement remains prospective, rather than a confirmed allocation of orders.

https://youtu.be/sbUyQWx8ItQ

The event was opened by Tin Pei Ling, Member of Parliament, and Dato’ Tony Khor Chong Boon, President of the Federation of Motor and Credit Companies Associations of Malaysia (FMCCAM). Through keynote presentations, panel discussions and live technology demonstrations, participants examined how AI-driven solutions can improve customer experiences while ensuring transparency, security and responsible decision-making.

AIMCONNECT 2026 Highlights the Shift Towards Connected Mobility

During the keynote address, “The Next Mobility Economy: Intelligence, Connection, Trust,” X Star Technology CEO Shawn Yang highlighted the growing gap between consumers’ digital engagement and completed automotive transactions.

Shawn Yang noted that consumers increasingly begin their vehicle purchase journey online, with research showing strong demand for AI-supported decision-making. According to figures shared during the keynote, 90% of car buyers conduct online research before visiting dealerships, 63% expect to use AI during their next vehicle purchase and 67% believe AI will influence their financing decisions.

However, the automotive journey remains fragmented. Customers often move between dealerships, financing providers and multiple systems, creating unnecessary friction during purchasing and ownership processes.

“Customers are not lost in one stage; they are lost to the friction between them,” Yang said. Yang said. The CEO explained that the next stage of mobility innovation requires closer cooperation between automotive companies, financial institutions and technology providers. Rather than improving isolated parts of the journey, the industry must create connected experiences that allow information, decisions and services to move more efficiently between stakeholders.

During AIMCONNECT 2026, technology demonstrations showcased emerging solutions designed to address these challenges. X Star Technology presented its Xport platform, demonstrating one-click lead-to-loan matching and real-time approval capabilities. Aimotion, MStar, AI Wingman and MK.X also introduced their latest innovations, highlighting the potential of AI-enabled tools across the automotive value chain.

Building Trust as AI Takes a Greater Role in Decision-Making

A key theme throughout AIMCONNECT 2026 was the importance of trust as artificial intelligence becomes increasingly involved in customer-facing processes.

While AI can improve speed and efficiency, industry leaders emphasised that technology must operate within clear boundaries. Decisions involving financing, customer eligibility and financial commitments require transparency, human oversight and accountability.

Yang introduced X Star Technology’s proprietary Harness framework, which combines AI operating boundaries, human supervision and traceable data management. The framework is designed to ensure that AI systems operate within authorised parameters while allowing complex cases to be escalated for human review.

“In auto finance, a single flawed decision risks customer harm and regulatory non-compliance. For AI to operate across the customer journey with true autonomy, trust cannot be an afterthought; it must be engineered into the architecture from day one,” Yang said.

The discussions also highlighted the importance of balancing personalisation with privacy. While consumers increasingly expect services tailored to their needs, excessive automation or unnecessary intervention may reduce trust. Effective AI solutions must therefore combine intelligence with appropriate restraint.

Strengthening Connections Across the Auto Finance Ecosystem

Another major discussion at AIMCONNECT 2026 focused on how stronger collaboration between automotive companies, financial institutions and technology providers can create a more efficient and trusted financing experience.

During the panel discussion “Building a Connected Auto Finance Ecosystem,” moderated by MStar CEO Zhang Peng, industry representatives explored the role of data connectivity, cybersecurity and responsible technology adoption in shaping the future of automotive finance.

Speakers from Deloitte, Deutsche Bank, The CEO Circle and JWT Bespoke examined how financial institutions and mobility businesses can use technology to improve decision-making while maintaining customer confidence.

“Better data infrastructure and connectivity can help the industry make more informed financing decisions, but technology must go hand in hand with trust,” Zhang said.

The discussion emphasised that connectivity is not simply about collecting more data. A truly integrated ecosystem requires organisations to establish clear principles for how information is shared, protected and used. Customers must also understand what information they provide and how it contributes to a better service experience.

Matthew Duncan, Director and CEO of JWT Bespoke, highlighted the importance of balancing innovation with consumer protection, drawing from Australia’s experience in automotive and financial regulation.

“Regulation works best when it protects customers and still gives the industry room to improve how people buy and finance their cars,” Duncan said.

Exploring the Future of Vehicle Ownership

Beyond financing and transactions, AIMCONNECT 2026 also examined a broader question facing the mobility industry: how will consumers define vehicle ownership in the future?

The rise of leasing, subscription services, car-sharing and ride-hailing has expanded consumer choices, creating new possibilities beyond traditional ownership models.

During the panel “The Future of Owning a Car,” moderated by Shawn Yang, industry leaders discussed how changing consumer expectations may influence future mobility behaviour.

An audience poll showed a closely divided perspective. While 54% of participants believed flexible mobility solutions could become the preferred choice within the next decade, 46% expected vehicle ownership to remain the dominant preference.

The result reflected the complexity of future mobility trends. Rather than replacing ownership completely, emerging mobility models may provide consumers with more options depending on their lifestyle, financial situation and travel needs.

James Ng, Managing Director of BYD Singapore and President of BYD Philippines, shared insights into BYD’s technology development journey.

“BYD’s first phase was electrification, delivering performance. The second phase is intelligence, using AI to enhance the customer experience. The third phase will focus on integration,” Ng said.

Xiao Ting, CEO of MK.X, noted that increasingly capable AI assistants could change how consumers approach mobility decisions.

“The decision may increasingly be less about owning a car and more about finding the right mobility solution for each journey,” noted the CEO.

Ng also highlighted the broader applications of BYD’s technology beyond vehicles, including Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) and renewable energy solutions that contribute to a wider technology ecosystem.

These developments suggest that the future mobility landscape will involve not only automakers, but also dealers, financial institutions and technology platforms adapting their services to meet changing consumer expectations.

AI Is Expanding the Vehicle Experience Beyond the Point of Sale

The role of artificial intelligence throughout the vehicle ownership lifecycle was another key focus at AIMCONNECT 2026.

During the panel “How Is AI Reshaping Mobility?” moderated by X Star Chief Technology Officer Michael Jia, industry experts discussed how AI can support consumers beyond vehicle selection and purchase.

Panel participants included Carson Zhang of Aimotion, Connor Liu of Google Cloud, Dr Harold Teng of MK.X Technology and Bryan Tan of Carro.

When delegates were asked where AI would create the greatest impact, personalised ownership services ranked ahead of vehicle selection, automotive financing and in-car intelligence. The results suggested that industry participants see significant opportunities in improving the ownership experience after purchase.

Bryan Tan, Chief Scientist at Carro Group and CEO of Carro Indonesia, explained that vehicle value assessment is becoming increasingly influenced by new data sources. For electric vehicles, factors such as battery condition and charging history are becoming important considerations alongside traditional indicators such as mileage.

Tan also noted that markets such as Singapore have unique considerations, including the impact of the Certificate of Entitlement (COE) system on vehicle value.

These examples demonstrate how advances in automotive technology are influencing areas beyond driving performance, extending into finance, resale value and long-term ownership decisions.

However, industry leaders agreed that AI adoption must remain focused on practical benefits.

“The focus must remain on delivering practical benefits, enhancing safety and making mobility more intuitive for consumers,” Dr Teng said.

Collaboration Will Define the Next Stage of Mobility Innovation

Across the discussions at AIMCONNECT 2026, one common message emerged: the future of mobility will be shaped by collaboration.

Automotive manufacturers and dealers must better understand customer needs and reduce unnecessary friction throughout the ownership journey. Financial institutions must improve efficiency while maintaining responsible lending practices. Technology providers must develop solutions that meet operational, regulatory and customer expectations.

For policymakers and industry stakeholders, the challenge will be encouraging innovation while maintaining public confidence.

“No single company can transform the entire mobility journey on its own,” Xiao Ting said.

Zhang highlighted that the success of future mobility solutions should be measured not only by speed and efficiency, but also by how effectively the industry works together to serve customers.

“Progress should be measured not only by how quickly a loan can be approved, but by how well the industry works together to serve the customer,” Zhang said.

AIMCONNECT 2026 demonstrated that artificial intelligence will play an increasingly important role in mobility, but technology alone will not define the future. The next phase of automotive transformation will depend on building systems that are intelligent, transparent and connected — supported by stronger partnerships across the mobility ecosystem.

Hashtag: #XStar

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About AIMCONNECT 2026

AIMCONNECT 2026 brings together automotive leaders, dealers, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), financial institutions, technology innovators and industry decision-makers to explore the future of automotive commerce and mobility.

Through industry dialogue, thought leadership sessions and live technology demonstrations, AIMCONNECT provides a platform for stakeholders to exchange insights and collaborate on the next generation of connected mobility solutions.

The IMF forecast regional expansion of 4.8 per cent in 2026, compared with 5 per cent last year, followed by a further slowdown to 4.4 per cent in 2027. Its latest estimate for this year nevertheless represents a substantial upgrade from the 4.4 per cent projected in April.

The revised outlook reflects sharply contrasting pressures across Asia. Demand for semiconductors, data centres and other technology equipment has strengthened exports and investment, while higher energy costs linked to the Middle East conflict have squeezed economies dependent on imported fuel.

The fund warned that a reversal in AI investment or technology share valuations could undermine growth disproportionately because Asian manufacturers occupy central positions in global electronics supply chains. Higher sovereign borrowing costs and prolonged disruption to energy supplies present additional threats.

Emerging and developing Asian economies are projected to grow 5.1 per cent this year, down from 5.6 per cent in 2025, before slowing to 4.9 per cent next year. Advanced regional economies are expected to expand 3.2 per cent in 2026, compared with 2.5 per cent last year, then moderate to 2 per cent in 2027.

The IMF upgraded forecasts for South Korea, Taiwan and Hong Kong, where demand linked to AI infrastructure has lifted manufacturing and exports. China and India also received upward revisions, although countries facing higher inflation without equivalent technology gains have experienced weaker growth projections.

Krishna Srinivasan, director of the IMF’s Asia and Pacific Department, said at the fund’s annual meetings in Bangkok that technology exports had accelerated sharply during the first half of 2026. Demand for chips and investment in data centres were important contributors, alongside stronger trade within the region.

He said economies had responded to energy disruptions by diversifying fuel suppliers, reducing consumption, increasing alternative energy use and drawing down inventories. Governments had also introduced measures intended to contain inflation, protect incomes and prevent supply shortages.

Those adjustments have not eliminated the unequal effects of the energy shock. Bangladesh, Cambodia and Laos are among the fuel-importing economies with limited direct exposure to the AI investment boom and comparatively restricted financial resources to absorb further pressure.

The IMF urged monetary authorities to maintain price stability as expensive energy threatens to push inflation expectations higher. It cautioned that central banks could face difficult decisions if weaker growth coincides with persistent price pressures, particularly where currencies and capital flows respond to changes in global interest rates.

Fiscal policy should focus on vulnerable households and businesses rather than costly blanket subsidies, the fund indicated. Elevated public debt and higher bond yields reduce governments’ ability to sustain broad support programmes without increasing financial risks.

The regional assessment comes as investors reassess the durability of spending on AI infrastructure. Asian technology shares suffered steep losses on Thursday, with South Korea’s benchmark stock index falling nearly 8 per cent and Japan’s Nikkei dropping about 5 per cent amid concerns over US inflation and borrowing costs.

The fund also identified concentrated stock market valuations and increased investor leverage as potential sources of instability. A sharp repricing could affect financing conditions and confidence even in economies where orders for technology products remain comparatively strong.

Separately, the IMF expects China’s growth to slow from 5 per cent in 2025 to 4.5 per cent this year and 4 per cent in 2027. It has called for stronger domestic demand and fiscal measures to counter deflationary pressures, rather than continued reliance on external sales.

Beyond financial markets, the fund highlighted employment challenges associated with technological change. Srinivasan said its research found employer demand for jobs more exposed to AI had declined by 10 per cent, although that effect appeared to have stabilised as employers sought workers with relevant skills.

The IMF recommended addressing youth unemployment and skills mismatches, strengthening social protection and improving energy security through diversification and renewable supplies. It also supported deeper regional trade integration as governments seek to preserve access to markets despite tariff barriers.

The regional outlook additionally identified a severe El Niño episode as a potential disruption to agriculture, fisheries and hydropower generation, with possible consequences for food and electricity prices across vulnerable economies, particularly in countries heavily reliant on imported energy.

• The MoU was signed at the LSCM Logistics Summit 2026 at Hong Kong Science Park
• The two parties will collaborate on ICT infrastructure, AI, general computing, operating systems and cyber resilience

HONG KONG, CHINA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2026 – ZTE Corporation (0763.HK / 000063.SZ), a global leading provider of integrated information and communication technology solutions, announced that its wholly owned subsidiary ZTE (Hong Kong) Limited (“ZTE Hong Kong”) and The Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre (“LSCM”) today officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at Hong Kong Science Park during the LSCM Logistics Summit 2026.

The signing ceremony was attended by representatives of both parties. Ir Prof Alan Lam, Chairman of the Board of Directors of LSCM, and Mr. Mei Zhonghua, Senior Vice President of ZTE, jointly witnessed the signing; Mr. Simon Wong, Chief Executive Officer of LSCM, and Ms. Wang Huan, Managing Director of ZTE Hong Kong Representative Office, signed the MoU on behalf of both parties..

In accordance with the principles of complementary strengths, equality and mutual benefit, and win-win cooperation, both parties reached a consensus on cooperation focusing on Hong Kong’s digital and intelligent development, enhancing e-government information services, and promoting the local application of secure and reliable diversified technologies in Hong Kong. They also agreed to jointly cultivate a digital and intelligent industry ecosystem suited to Hong Kong’s actual needs.

The Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre (LSCM) was established in 2006 with funding from the Innovation and Technology Fund of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government. Since its establishment, LSCM has been committed to researching and developing various technologies that promote the development of industries related to logistics and supply chains, and to assisting industries across Hong Kong and mainland China in adopting relevant technologies.

ZTE (Hong Kong) Limited was incorporated in Hong Kong in 2000 and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of ZTE Corporation. ZTE Hong Kong has been deeply rooted in the Hong Kong market for many years, serving local operators over the long term. It has a strong localized service team and delivery capability, enabling it to respond quickly to customer needs, as well as full-stack locally developed products and IT application innovation solutions, which have been widely implemented. With a deep understanding of the Hong Kong market and rich project experience, ZTE Hong Kong has achieved breakthroughs and established a presence in key industries such as the public sector and finance, providing safe and reliable ICT solutions to customers across various industries. In the future, ZTE Hong Kong will continue to leverage its localized service advantages to support the digital transformation of industries in Hong Kong.

Under the MoU, cooperation between the two parties covers areas including ICT infrastructure, artificial intelligence, general computing, operating systems, and cybersecurity. Both parties will also actively promote technology and talent exchange, fully leverage their respective R&D strengths, comprehensively carry out joint innovation in areas such as general computing and artificial intelligence, and jointly develop and incubate a digital and intelligent ecosystem suited to Hong Kong. Focusing on the C86 next-generation computing platform, the two parties will carry out in-depth cooperation in areas such as locally developed computing infrastructure development and the digital transformation of government and enterprises, jointly promoting the high-quality development of industries in Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area.

The signing of this MoU marks the official launch of the strategic cooperation between the two parties in promoting Hong Kong’s digital and intelligent development and the application of secure and reliable technologies. Both parties will take this opportunity to deepen cooperation and complement each other’s strengths, jointly contributing to Hong Kong’s innovation and technology development and enhancements in trusted public-sector digital capabilities.

Hashtag: #ZTE

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

Hashtag: #MOTC

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

Three-year partnership celebrates excellence, ambition and Botswana’s remarkable development story through natural diamonds.

LONDON, UK/ GABORONE, BOTSWANA – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2026 – De Beers Group and the Government of the Republic of Botswana today announced the extension of De Beers’ partnership with Olympic champion and Botswana sporting icon Letsile Tebogo. Originally launched in January 2025, when Tebogo was appointed a De Beers Global Ambassador, the partnership has now been expanded into a three-year programme of work between De Beers and the Government of Botswana as part of their wider collaboration to support natural diamond demand and promote Botswana’s unique contribution to the diamond industry. The extended partnership will help shine a light on the progress Botswana has achieved through diamonds as the nation celebrates its ‘diamond’ anniversary of 60 years since independence.

Building on the success of the initial partnership, the relationship will be anchored in a global storytelling platform themed “The Road to LA28”, following Tebogo’s journey as he prepares for the next chapter of his extraordinary career. The collaboration will spotlight the transformative role that natural diamonds play in creating opportunities, supporting communities and driving long-term prosperity in Botswana.

Letsile Tebogo said: “My success story is connected to Botswana’s diamond heritage. The resources that built our schools and sports facilities helped create opportunities for young athletes like me. This partnership goes beyond sport – it is about showcasing how natural resources can drive positive change and create pathways for the next generation.”

In 2024, Tebogo made history when he won Olympic gold in the men’s 200 metres in a time of 19.46 seconds, becoming the first African athlete to win the event and the first Motswana to claim an Olympic gold medal. His achievement captivated audiences worldwide and cemented his status as one of the most exciting talents in global sport.

Since then, Tebogo has continued to establish himself among the world’s elite sprinters. Named World Athletics Men’s Athlete of the Year in 2024, he has remained a leading force on the international circuit, delivering standout performances across global competitions and inspiring a new generation of athletes throughout Africa.

The partnership reflects the powerful connection between Tebogo’s personal journey and Botswana’s development story. Over more than five decades, Botswana’s diamond resources have helped support investments in education, healthcare, infrastructure and sport, creating opportunities for generations of Batswana and helping cultivate talents such as Tebogo. Like a natural diamond formed under pressure and transformed into something exceptional, Tebogo’s rise from Botswana to Olympic glory embodies resilience, determination and the fulfilment of potential.

The Road to LA28

As the face of the campaign, Tebogo will feature in content and storytelling initiatives that explore the dedication, sacrifice and support systems behind elite performance. Building on the Talent Unearthed platform, the campaign will connect sporting excellence with Botswana’s broader story of opportunity, progress and possibility.

Al Cook, CEO of De Beers Group, said: Anything worth having takes time, effort and pressure, whether that’s winning Olympic gold, the growth of a nation or the formation of a natural diamond. We are proud to extend our partnership with Letsile Tebogo, showcasing how Botswana nurtures its human talent just as carefully as it develops its precious natural resources. As Botswana’s approaches its 60th ‘diamond’ anniversary of independence, its people and its diamonds have never shone more brightly.

Honourable Bogolo Kenewendo, Minister of Minerals and Energy, said: “As we celebrate Botswana’s Diamond Jubilee, we have an opportunity to reflect on a remarkable national journey. From independence to today, natural diamonds have helped transform our country and create opportunities for generations of Batswana. Letsile’s rise to Olympic champion is a powerful example of what can be achieved when talent meets opportunity. Through this partnership, the Government of Botswana, De Beers Group and Letsile Tebogo will share Botswana’s story with global audiences while highlighting the enduring value and positive impact of natural diamonds.”

Hashtag: #DeBeersGroup #LetsileTebogo #ADiamondisForever #BuildingForever #NaturalDiamonds #Diamonds #創守永恒 #天然鑽石 #鑽石

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

About De Beers Group

Established in 1888, De Beers Group is the world’s leading diamond company with expertise in the exploration, mining, marketing and retailing of diamonds. Together with its joint venture partners, De Beers Group employs more than 20,000 people across the diamond pipeline and is the world’s largest diamond producer by value, with diamond mining operations in Botswana, Canada, Namibia and South Africa. Innovation sits at the heart of De Beers Group’s strategy as it develops a portfolio of offers that span the diamond value chain, including its jewellery houses, De Beers London and Forevermark, and other pioneering solutions such as diamond sourcing and traceability initiatives Tracr and GemFair. De Beers Group also provides leading services and technology to the diamond industry in the form of education and laboratory services and a wide range of diamond sorting, detection and classification technology services. De Beers Group is committed to ‘Building Forever,’ a holistic and integrated approach to sustainability that underpins our efforts to create meaningful impact for the people and places where our diamonds are discovered. Building Forever focuses on three key areas where, through collaborations and partnerships around the globe, we have an enhanced ability to drive positive impact; Livelihoods, Climate and Nature. De Beers Group is a member of the Anglo American plc group. For further information, visit www.debeersgroup.com.

About The Republic of Botswana

Botswana is a peaceful and stable country in the heart of Southern Africa, renowned for its diamonds, spectacular wildlife, rich culture and breath-taking landscapes. In 2026, Botswana celebrates 60 years of independence – its Diamond Jubilee, marking six decades of nation-building, resilience and progress. Since independence in 1966, the country has made significant strides in economic and social development, with diamond revenues contributing to education, healthcare, infrastructure and improved livelihoods. Beyond diamonds, Botswana is a world-class tourism destination, home to the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Central Kalahari Game Reserve and Makgadikgadi Pans, offering unforgettable wildlife and safari experiences. The country is also celebrated for its rich cultural heritage, warm hospitality and strong traditions, including the internationally recognised Tswana way of life. As Botswana looks to the future, it is embracing economic diversification, investment, innovation, renewable energy and sustainable tourism, creating new opportunities for both local and international partners. Sixty years on, Botswana stands proud as a nation of peace, natural beauty, valuable resources and opportunity—building on its remarkable past while confidently shaping a prosperous future.

Senior Minister of State Tan Kiat How to attend as Guest-of-Honour at the 12 November summit, which will bring together leaders from across public relations, journalism, business and technology

SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 15 October 2026 — The Institute of Public Relations of Singapore (IPRS) has announced the keynote speakers for the Media OutReach Newswire PRISM Summit 2026, taking place on 12 November at METT Singapore. Mr Tan Kiat How, Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information, and National Development, will attend as Guest-of-Honour.

Held under the theme “From Message to Mandate”, the Summit will examine how communications professionals can move beyond message delivery to influence organisational decisions, safeguard reputation and build stakeholder trust in an environment increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence, fragmented media and heightened scrutiny.

The programme brings together perspectives from newsrooms, corporate leadership, technology and the communications industry to address a central question: how can communications leaders maintain credibility and demonstrate their strategic value when the information landscape is changing faster than ever?

Notable keynote speakers include Rosianna Silalahi, President Director of KompasTV, whose session, “Holding the Line: What Newsrooms Need from Communicators”, will draw on the Indonesian broadcaster’s experience navigating demonstrations, external pressure and the growing challenges of verifying information. Her contribution will examine the responsibilities journalists and communicators share in protecting information integrity, maintaining editorial independence, and establishing accountability for AI-generated content.

The relationship between media credibility and organisational reputation will also feature in the keynote by Glenda Gloria, Co-Founder and Executive Editor of Rappler, who will deliver “Keepers of the Record”, reflecting on journalism’s role in an era of disinformation and declining trust, and what the changing media landscape means for communications professionals.

Beyond the newsroom, the Summit will consider how communications can deliver greater strategic value to organisations. Terence Lyons, Founder and CEO of TSC.ai, will examine how stakeholder intelligence can help organisations anticipate emerging issues and understand influence, while Wendy Wang, Founder of getUGC.io, will explore the evolving relationship between creators, communities and brand trust.

Another focus will be the growing influence of artificial intelligence on how organisations are discovered and understood. Shaad Hamid, General Manager, Singapore at GrowthOps Asia, will examine the relationship between earned media and AI visibility, while Emma Dale, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Prospect Resourcing, will consider the human judgement, trust and leadership that remain essential as AI becomes more embedded in communications work.

Jennifer Kok, Founder and CEO of Media OutReach Newswire, will deliver the Title Sponsor Keynote, “The Golden Age of PR: Why an AI-Enabled Global Newswire Matters More Than Ever”, exploring the role of earned media and newswire distribution in building brand trust and visibility in an AI-driven environment.

The programme will culminate in the unveiling of findings from the inaugural Singapore State of PR and Communications Survey, jointly conducted by Media OutReach Newswire and IPRS. The research will offer insights into how communications practitioners view changing PR dynamics, the evolving media landscape, AI visibility, and their use of AI tools in daily workflows.

Other speakers include Liu Xiaowei, Co-Founder of Retension; Nicholas Leong, Head of Media Relations, Asia Pacific at DHL; Raju Chellam, Editor-in-Chief of the AI Ethics & Governance Body of Knowledge; Emily Poon, CEO of the Singapore Institute of Directors; Shefali Srinivas, Head of Business Communications, APAC at Meta; Esther An, Chief Sustainability Officer at City Developments Limited; and Brian Fletcher, Director, Public Policy APJ at CrowdStrike.

PRISM Summit 2026 is supported by Title Sponsor Media OutReach Newswire, Coffee & Silver Sponsor Notified, Silver Sponsors Isentia and Truescope, Official PR Agency Pinpoint and Venue Partner METT Singapore.

Supporting Partners include Edge Digital, the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA), World Communication Forum Association (WCFA), Davos Communications Summit & Awards, Asia Pacific PR Network (APRN), Singapore Institute of Directors (SID) and Singapore Press Club (SPC). Media Partners include Humas Indonesia and PR Indonesia.

Full speaker line-up
The PRISM Summit 2026 speaker line-up comprises:

• Anita Kapoor – Host
• Ross Gan — President, IPRS; Chief Communications Officer, Bitdeer Technologies
• Jennifer Kok — Founder & CEO, Media OutReach Newswire
• Raju Chellam — Editor-in-Chief, AI Ethics & Governance Body of Knowledge
• Illka Gobius — Founder & Managing Director, Pinpoint PR
• Kathy O’Brien — Managing Director, Red Shoe Communications
• Lee Nugent — Head of Communications, Asia-Pacific & Japan, Everpure
• Emily Poon — CEO, Singapore Institute of Directors
• Liu Xiaowei — Co-Founder, Retension
• Terence Lyons — Founder & CEO, TSC.ai
• Brian Fletcher — Director, Public Policy APJ, CrowdStrike
• Naeema Ismail — Founder, The Reset Practice
• Shefali Srinivas — Head of Business Communications, APAC, Meta
• Glenda Gloria — Co-Founder & Executive Editor, Rappler
• Rosianna Silalahi — Editor-in-Chief, KompasTV
• Glenn van Zutphen — Founder & CEO, VanMedia Group
• Wendy Wang — Founder, getUGC.io
• Prashant Saxena — VP of Revenue & Insights, Southeast Asia, iSentia
• Collin Tio — Associate Director, KOBE
• Angel Turner — Senior Manager, Brand Marketing, World Scout Bureau
• Shaad Hamid — General Manager, Singapore, GrowthOps Asia
• Cheryl Heng — Associate Editor, Citywire Asia
• Voal Voal Wong — Managing Partner, IN.FOM
• Melissa Ang — Strategic Account Director, Notified
• Pamela Phua — Managing Partner, Southeast Asia, Media OutReach Newswire
• Kelvin Koh — Managing Director, Truescope Singapore
• Nicholas Leong — Head of Media Relations, Asia Pacific, DHL
• Emma Dale — Co-Founder & Managing Director, Prospect Resourcing
• Esther An — Chief Sustainability Officer, City Developments Limited
• Cindy Lim — PRISM Summit 2026 Chair; Head of Audience & Communications, Singapore Symphony Group

Registration is open, with special rates available to IPRS members and partners.

For more information and registration, visit the Summit website.

Hashtag: #PRISM2026 #IPRS #FromMessageToMandate #PublicRelations #StrategicCommunications

https://iprs.glueup.com/event/media-outreach-newswire-prism-summit-2026-185060/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/institute-of-public-relations-of-singapore/p

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

About the Institute of Public Relations of Singapore

The Institute of Public Relations of Singapore represents public relations and communications practitioners in Singapore and promotes professional standards, continuing development and the advancement of the profession.

Major announcements and launches

• €250 million Women’s Health Initiative in Bangladesh: The Government of Bangladesh and the European Investment Bank outlined plans to improve women’s health and strengthen district hospitals and critical care services.
• US$100 million commitment to prevent stillbirths: The Gates Foundation and Wellcome Leap announced a joint commitment to Uzima: A Stillbirth Prevention Program, aiming to halve stillbirth rates within a decade in selected countries.
• Lancet Commission on 21st Century Global Threats to Health: The Commission identified two potential threats to human existence: malicious use of artificial intelligence and nuclear conflict.
• Wellcome Global Monitor 2026: Wellcome presented global findings showing that trust in science has declined compared with pre-COVID-19 levels.
• Gallup’s State of the World’s Emotional Health 2026 Report: Gallup and the World Health Summit presented findings on emotional health and well-being, revealing a complex relationship between social media use and well-being that varies by age, time spent online, and geographic location.
• €10 million German contribution to maternal and child health: Germany pledged €10 million to the Global Financing Facility’s Sustainable Commodities Access Program to improve access to family planning and maternal, newborn, and child health products.

The World Health Summit is the leading platform for global health. It brings together stakeholders from politics, science, the private sector, and civil society to set the agenda for a healthier future.

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BANGKOK, THAILAND – Media OutReach Newswire – 14 October 2026 – Siam Paragon reaffirms its position as a global fashion destination, advancing a strong and sustainable fashion ecosystem through the success of “Siam Paragon Bangkok International Fashion Week 2026” (BIFW2026). Held from 8–11 October 2026, this major regional fashion event extended beyond presenting collections on the runway to serve as a strategic platform, connecting creativity, Thai designers, fashion brands, business partners and consumers within an integrated ecosystem. By enhancing brand visibility, strengthening brand image and supporting the purposeful growth of Thai fashion, BIFW2026 demonstrated its vital role in shaping Bangkok’s fashion identity and advancing the city’s position as a fashion capital of Asia. Under the theme “TH-nomenal Extraordinary – Lead the Culture, Wear the Future”, the event presented 10 fashion shows by 10 leading Thai brands, achieving full-capacity attendance at every show and generating strong buzz across all social media platforms.

The success of BIFW2026 was made possible through the collaboration between Siam Paragon and leading partners from the public and private sectors, united in their commitment to strengthening Thailand’s fashion industry. Partners included the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), Kasikornbank Public Company Limited, Merz Aesthetics Thailand Co., Ltd., Madame Fin Co., Ltd., XPENG Thailand, Millennium Auto Group, Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited, THANN, KIKI Beauty Space, Grey Goose, and M.A.C Cosmetics Thailand. Together, they elevated the fashion experience on the iconic Grand Runway at Parc Paragon, M Floor, Siam Paragon.

Thanaporn Tantiyanon, Managing Director of Siam Paragon Shopping Center, said: “Siam Paragon Bangkok International Fashion Week 2026 reflects the creative strength and the increasingly distinctive, diverse capabilities of Thai fashion. Under the theme ‘TH-nomenal Extraordinary – Lead the Culture, Wear the Future’, we aim to push fashion beyond a mere expression of clothing beauty. We see it as a powerful force that connects culture, heritage, craftsmanship and the vision of a new generation.

Throughout the four days of BIFW2026, we witnessed Thai designers express their identities through distinctive designs, skillfully reinterpreting their cultural roots through a contemporary lens. Our greatest source of pride in BIFW2026 goes beyond attendance figures or the response it generated. It lies in seeing the entire Thai fashion ecosystem grow, encompassing pioneering designers, emerging talents, entrepreneurs, Thai artisanal craftsmanship, brands, and business partners, all working together to create new value for the industry.

BIFW is therefore more than an annual fashion event. It is a platform of opportunity that connects creativity with the real economy, serves as a key catalyst for bringing Thailand’s soft power to international audiences through fashion, and creates meaningful experiences and inspiration for people.”

BIFW2026 brought fashion narratives to life through 10 shows by 10 Thai brands, each with its own distinctive creative perspective and design language. Its success lay not only in gathering leading designers, but also in providing a platform where different generations of Thai design talent could grow together across every dimension. Iconic brands such as FLYNOW, NAGARA, and 27FRIDAY expressed their enduring identities and design DNA through contemporary perspectives that retained a powerful presence on the runway.

Meanwhile, established brands that have grown and evolved alongside the platform—ISSUE, POEM, PAINKILLER Atelier, and VVON SUGUNNASIL—each presented a clearly defined design language. Their collections demonstrated the ability to preserve a distinctive identity while extending their creativity in response to an ever-evolving fashion landscape. Adding another compelling perspective was 37°C Thirty-seven degrees Celsius, a brand featuring a legendary designer who delivered a bold interpretation of fashion’s next chapter. This diversity made BIFW2026 more than a showcase of collections: it became a space where the experience, design philosophies, and visions of Thai brands came together with depth and dimension.

Another significant achievement of BIFW2026 was its role in providing promising brands with a platform to fully establish their presence, particularly CHATO and MERGE, whose collections combined contemporary perspectives with distinctive design signatures. MERGE reinterpreted denim and craftsmanship through silhouettes reflecting contemporary lifestyles, while CHATO translated floral inspiration into garment construction and folding techniques rooted in Thai heritage.

The participation of both brands highlighted BIFW2026’s role in enabling designers to expand the scope of their creative presentations, build wider awareness, and further develop their brands along their individual growth journeys, while bringing fresh dimensions to Thailand’s fashion landscape.

Throughout the event, BIFW2026 attracted attention both offline and online, trending across all social media platforms. This response reflected fashion’s power to connect brands, designers, fashion industry figures, and consumers. The event’s success further reaffirmed Siam Paragon’s ability to deliver world-class experiences while serving as a platform that supports Thai designers’ growth, connects partner networks and broadens the reach of Thai fashion.

Siam Paragon remains committed to developing Siam Paragon Bangkok International Fashion Week into more than a fashion platform, positioning it as a driving force for the future of Thai fashion. By bringing together iconic designers, established brands that continue to evolve, and emerging brands ready to redefine the industry, Siam Paragon continues to advance Bangkok’s position as one of Asia’s key fashion destinations.

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